SHOW ME THE SHELVES SUNDAY!

Today on My Overstuffed Bookshelf, we have Kristy from The Overflowing Library 

Lets sit back and take a peek into her bookshelves!!

I hope this post goes some way to explaining the name of my blog The Overflowing Library. I have always loved books from when I was tiny. I vaguely remember my infant school teacher bringing me in extra books from home as I had read all of the ones in the school library. When I was younger I read a lot of Enid Blyton and was often found with a torch under the duvet late at night reading one of the hundreds of books I borrowed from the library.

Fast forward 20 or so years and I finally have my own library to love and fuss over.  As you can see from the montage picture our library is very much overflowing.  My husband is actually worse than I am and most of it is his. Most of shelves are his fantasy and sci fi books along with a few graphic novels, his Doctor Who collection, some main stream adult books and a few board games. There is a shelf (top right picture) of my children’s books, most of which are Enid Blyton. I can’t realistically see myself reading these again but I can’t bear to part with them ever. It’s a fab little room off the back of the kitchen which isn’t big enough to do anything else with and it work perfectly as our library – complete with huge comfy chair (I have no idea how the boys got it in there).

As you can see my own collection takes up only a fraction of the space in the library (although I have read a lot of my husband’s books as well as my own). My own collection is spilt over two bookcases. We have a “to be read” bookcase in our bedroom. My books take up the top two shelves. It is right next to my side of the bed so also has all kinds of things all over it including my lamp and random toys I have been bought. There is no order to it particularly I just thrown them all on and pick up and read what I fancy as and when.  This is the bookcase I look at lovingly before I go to sleep and it soothes me. Books I have read (or later ones in a series where I haven’t got that far – e.g. book 3 of the beautiful dead is there as I haven’t book 2 which is on my TBR shelf) are sorted into alphabetical order on my bookcase in the library. They are most young adult books, with the odd adult book thrown in (most of those are historical fiction). I am going to run out of room soon and have plans to relocate some of my husband’s stuff to the spare room to give me some more space.

I struggled long and hard to pick my favourite three books. There are so many I love (I don’t tend to keep the ones I don’t love and put them on www.readitswapit.co.uk) but in the end it came down to the ones I have reread (and will continue to reread) the most. They are presented to you by Angel (if any of your are Buffy and Angel fans and have seen the Angel episode “smile time” you’ll recognize him)

Twilight – Stephenie Meyer.
I am proud to say that I own a first edition of this book. My husband purchased it for my quite randomly one Christmas (not long after it had been published) because he thought the girl on the cover looked like me. I had never heard of it but read it and loved it and was ecstatic to find out it was one in a series of books. I have read it at least times and will probably reread again soon.

The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
Another book picked by my husband which I got to before him and read and loved. It is simply awesome. I read it in half a day in one sitting and then immediately ordered the second and preordered the third. I am planning to reread it very soon in time for the release of Mockingjay.

Uglies – Scott Westerfeld
I picked this up at school on one of the books fairs they had because the cover looked weird. This book literally blew me away and it is another one I have reread on numerous occasions. In my opinion this is the strongest one of the set (although I did enjoy the rest particularly Extras). I love the character Tally and the whole concept of whole built up around her. It was fast paced and engaging and well worth a read if you happen to come across a copy.

**Wow Kristy! I have never seen that Twilight cover before! I love the Angel doll! I loved that episode! LOL Thank you so much for letting us take a look!**

If you would like to have your shelves featured on the blog, just send me an email at

djsfoxylady (at) gmail (dot) com

2010 RITA award winners

First of all congrats to all the winners! Even though I haven't read all of the books listed below, I do have them on my wish list! I also want to congratulate all of the nominee's! You also worked hard and deserve recognition!

So without further interruption:

2010 RITA Award Winners

 Best Contemporary Single Title Romance winner -- TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE by Kristan Higgins

 Best First Book winner -- ONE SCREAM AWAY by Kate Brady

 Best Romantic Suspense winner -- WHISPER OF WARNING by Laura Griffin

 Best Paranormal Romance winner -- KISS OF A DEMON KING by Kresley Cole

 Best Regency Historical Romance winner --- WHAT HAPPENS IN LONDON by Julia Quinn

 Best Historical Romance winner -- NOT QUITE A HUSBAND by Sherry Thomas

 Best Contemporary Series Romance: Suspense Adventure winner - THE SOLDIER'S SECRET DAUGHTER by Cindy Dees

 Best Contemporary Series winner -- A NOT-SO-PERFECT PAST by Beth Andrews

 Best Novel with Strong Romantic Elements winner --- THE LOST RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS by Barbara O'Neal

 Best Romance Novella winner - The Christmas Eve Promise by Molly O'Keefe

 Best Inspirational Romance - THE INHERITANCE by Tamera Alexander

  Best Young Adult winner -- PERFECT CHEMISTRY by Simone Elkeles

CSN PROMOTION

I just love CSN stores. I was notified that I am now a Preferred Blogger for their company.  I was so excited to be given that official title with their company!  Now, I have received bookshelves through them before, but I am not sure if I really have room for another one. So I tried to think about other things I could use for my home library to make it more cozy.  I surprised to see that they also offer bean bag chairs, sofas and recliners and even little end tables! Then I thought that even though those items would be great, I still don't have room for any of it. Then it dawned on me! The perfect item to add to my library for those late nights when I HAVE to finish that book before going to bed! What I needed was a coffee maker! That would be perfect and take up little space in my cluttered library! If I start to doze while reading, I could just reach over and get myself another cup of coffee! 

What would you add to your library?

NAUGHTY LITTLE SECRET by Shelley Bradley

NAUGHTY LITTLE SECRET
Author: Shelley Bradley
Source: Purchased at store

• Paperback: 212 pages
• Publisher: Samhain Publishing (November 21, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599982935
• ISBN-13: 978-1599982939

SYNOPSIS:

By night, he becomes a mysterious stranger devoted only to her pleasure and discovers she's hiding a naughty little secret. After divorcing her never-home husband, Lauren Southall plucked up her courage, dusted off her power suits, and returned to corporate life. Two years later, there's just one six-foot three, testosterone-packed problem: her ex-husband's good friend and her current boss, Noah Reeves. Lauren aches for him. No other man will do. But she can't possibly measure up to the silicone-packed professional cheerleaders he dates. So she hides her desire behind a professional persona and fantasizes. For ten years, Noah Reeves has waited to make Lauren his. Once her divorce was final, he tracked down and hired the brilliant, dedicated woman. But when he's with her, it isn't spreadsheets and profit margins on his brain. Problem is, she's never seen him as anything but her ex-husbands pal. Now that she's finally a free woman and with him 40+ hours a week, well... he'd love to persuade her to throw in her nights and weekends. Noah decides to romance her by day. By night, he becomes a mysterious stranger devoted only to her pleasure and discovers she's hiding a naughty little secret of her own. 

MY THOUGHTS:

While I am a HUGE fan of Shelley Bradley/Shayla Black! She has a special talent when it comes to writing erotica's that leave you breathless, hot and panting for more.  While I enjoyed this book, I don't see it as great as her other books.  I loved the characters when it was just Noah and Lauren.  When it was Lauren and Mr. Mysterious, it seemed more like a stalker doing bad things to a woman.  I couldn't believe that Lauren found it exciting and sexy when Mr. Mysterious shows up at her apartment while she sleeps, handcuffs her to her bed and has sex with her after waking her up.  Me, personally, I would have screamed bloody murder and yelled rape!  Yet, Lauren finds it exciting and sensual.  Noah needed to just face Lauren head on instead of coming across as a stalker at night.  When they bantered and worked together during the day you could feel the sexual tension and need they both felt. 

While I am still a huge fan of this author, and will continue to read whatever she comes out with, I didn't feel this book was one of her best. 

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

COLTERS' WOMAN by Maya Banks

COLTERS' WOMAN
Author: Maya Banks
Source: Purchased at Store

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Samhain Publishing (January 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599983508
• ISBN-13: 978-1599983509

SYNOPSIS:

Adam, Ethan and Ryan aren't looking for women. They're looking for a woman. One woman to share their lives and their beds. They don't want a casual romp in the hay, they want the woman who will complete them and they're losing hope of finding her. That is, until Adam finds Holly lying in the snow just yards from their cabin. He knows she's different the minute he holds her in his arms. But before Adam gets his hopes up, he knows he has to gauge his brothers' reactions. Soon it's evident that she's the one. There are a few problems, however: convincing her she belongs with them and keeping her safe from the man who wants her dead.

MY THOUGHTS:

After many recommendations for this book, I finally caved and got it. Wow! All those recommendations were right!  First of all, look at that cover! Who wouldn't want to sit down and read a book about those three men?  Those eyes an all three of them are telling you to read it!

I loved each one of the characters of this book.  It's hard to pick a favorite. Each brother has his own personality that makes you fall for them.  Adam is the serious older brother that likes to have everything planned and in order. Ethan is the laid back and smooth talking fun brother.  Ryan is the tormented and closed off brother that has been through hell with a problem with trusting people.  Holly is the naive and soft spoken woman they have been looking for.  She is on the run after watching her husband murder someone on their wedding night.  Adam finds her in the snow, barely alive, by their ranch. He brings her into the cabin and all the brothers agree that she is the one. They have been waiting for the perfect woman to love and they know they have found her.

I loved this book so much. The only problem I had was how easily Holly accepted everything with the brothers.  It was an unusual arrangement and most women would want to think about it longer than a few hours.  I am looking to forward to reading the rest of the books in this series!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

(ARC Review) Delirium by Lauren Oliver

DELIRIUM

Author: Lauren Oliver

Source: Around The World Tours

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: HarperCollins (February 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061726826
• ISBN-13: 978-0061726828

SYNOPSIS:

Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that one love -the deliria- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy. But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.

MY THOUGHTS:

I loved the author's first book, Before I Fall.  I was so excited to be picked to be on this tour because I couldn't wait to see what this author could bring to us to follow the first amazing novel.  I have to say though, that I am going to be in the minority with this book.  I wasn't a huge fan of it.

It is set in the future where society believes that love is a sickness. All those diseases like hypertension, stress, and depression are all symptoms of the true disease.  They have found a way to rid the population of this disease at age 18.  At eighteen you are required to undergo the treatment  to remove love from your life.  Arranged marriages are the norm and anyone who refuses to have the disease removed becomes marked for termination.  I couldn't bring myself to care about Lena.  She always wanted to please everyone and be the good girl.  I wanted her to wake up and realize that what they were doing is wrong and listen to her gut!  Also, how are your suppose to have a successful marriage and family without love?  That is basic nature!  

While the writing was beautiful, I thought the execution of the story was not.  I liked the book, but I am not a huge fan of the book.  

MY RATING:

 
Okay book, but it left me wanting more! 3 STARS

GIVEAWAY!

Thanks to Harlequin, I have 3 copies of the following book to giveaway! That means 3 winners!

When contacted by her long-lost grandmother, Lauren McKaslin wanted to reconnect - with all the warmhearted McKaslins. For too long, she'd relied solely on herself and her faith. But mistrustful lawman Caleb Stone stood in the way, and his questions about her were intimidating. Was his attention more than a protective instinct? Now that she believed in family again, perhaps this was also the time to believe in true love...

GIVEAWAY RULES:

1. You must be a follower to enter.
2. Contest is only available to the USA.  
Sorry, but limited funds at this moment in time.

3.  Leave a comment on this post with your email address.

Contest will be open until 7/31/2010 and the winner will be announced on 8/1/2010

Re-Create A Cover Contest

Princess Bookie is having another great contest where you re-create a cover! This time is for You Wish by Mandy Hubbard. Here is my cover I am entering along with the blurb!

What if all your wishes really came true?

Kayla McHenry’s sweet sixteen sucks! Her dad left,
her grades dropped, and her BFF is dating the boy
Kayla’s secretly loved for years. Blowing out her candles,
Kayla thinks: I wish my birthday wishes actually
came true. Because they never freakin’ do.

Kayla wakes the next day to a life-sized, bright pink
My Little Pony outside her window. Then a year’s
supply of gumballs arrives. A boy named Ken with
a disturbing resemblance to the doll of the same
name stalks her. As the ghosts of Kayla’s wishes-past
appear, they take her on a wild ride . . . but they
MUST STOP. Because when she was fifteen? She
wished Ben Mackenzie would kiss her. And Ben is
her best friend’s boyfriend.

UPDATES

Just wanted to apologize for the lack of reviews the last two days. Things have gotten a little hectic around the house and I had to step back for a day or two. I will resume reviewing Wed though. I thought I would at least give you a little something though! See, I always think about all of you!!!

First off, I have a contest that will be posted tomorrow for some Harlequin books! Multiple winners, so be sure to check back on that!

Second-- here are some releases that came out today! Be sure to check them out! Thank you to Princess Bookie for the list!

All I Ever Wanted by Kristan Higgins (27)
As Lie The Dead by Kelly Meding (27)
City Of Ghosts by Stacia Kane (27)
Echoes by Melinda Metz (27)
Eternal Kiss Of Darkness by Jeanienne Frost (27)
Falcon Prince by Karen Kelly (27)
Fat Vampire: A Never Coming of Age Story by Adam Rex (27)
Here Comes The Vampire by Kimberly Raye (27)
Kiss Me If You Can by Carly Phillips (27)
Love Sucks! by Melissa Mckenzie Francis (27)
One Last Thing by Molly Harper (27)
Three Nights With A Scoundrel by Tessa Duke (27)
Wait For Dusk by Jocelynn Drake (27)
Water Bound : A Sea Haven Novel by Christine Feehan (27)

SHOW ME THE SHELVES SUNDAY!

Today on Show Me The Shelves Sunday we have Karen from My Weight Loss Journey. Let's sit back and take a tour of her bookshelves!

When I first received the details on this guest post, I was very excited to take the pictures the next day.  When I walked into my room, camera in hand, I realized that my bookshelves had been neglected and to show them to the world would be a bit embarrassing. 

I have tried to keep each shelf a singe subject/topic/genre, but as room gets tights, books just get placed where there is room.  I have a 4th bookshelf in the living room the we also have and several other books on my Kindle app. 

I LOVE books but have a small home and finding space for my treasures is becoming difficult.  I started buying books on Kindle, and it's a wonderful way to read, but there are many limitations.  There is something magical about seeing your little babies all lined up that I miss.  (I don't miss the dusting of course) and not having books to share is a bummer too.  So as you can see, my book storage is full and I need to go through and maybe find a home for some of them so I can make room for some upcoming newbies.

I chose my top three books for various reasons:

Twilight: I stopped reading for several years because I was busy with babies and school.  This book reminded me how much I love reading a good book with a story that sweeps you away.  There are so many reasons I love this book.

Hunger Games: This book represents that not all books are what they seem.  I didn't think I would like it, the summary of the book wasn't interesting to me because it's not the type of book I would typically be interested in, so I thought.  I began reading this book purely from recommendation and it ended up being one of my favorites.

Bran Hambric by Kaleb Nation: This is one of my favorite books because I adore the author and his bio.  He began writing this book as a 14 year old homeschooler and published it at 20. This book represents the results of hard work and perseverance.  As a home schooling family, this book reminds me how the hard work will pay off for my children some day.  I love the story, the innocence and the mystery behind the main character's search for answers. 

Thank you so much Karen for joining in the fun and sharing your shelves with us! 

If you would like to have your shelves featured on the blog, just send me an email at

djsfoxylady (at) gmail (dot) com

THE GIRL NEXT DOOR by Selene Castrovilla

THE GIRL NEXT DOOR
Author: Selene Castrovilla
Source: Publisher
* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 240 pages
• Publisher: Westside Books (June 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 193481315X
• ISBN-13: 978-1934813157

SYNOPSIS:

While most seniors at her high school are worrying about prom and final exams, seventeen-year-old Sam is desperately trying to save her best friend Jesse’s life. He has a rare, treatment-resistant form of cancer, and his odds of survival aren’t good; he may have only ten months left to live. Through every bit of his pain and anguish, Sam has been by his side—through the grueling, aggressive treatments and their awful aftermath, to sleeping in his room when he’s afraid to be alone. Best friends and neighbors since preschool, Jesse and Sam’s friendship is changing. Now they’re falling in love, and the bond between them grows stronger even as Jesse weakens. Will they have a happy ending...or will their story end in heartbreak? 

MY THOUGHTS:

There are books that move you, but then there are books that move you so much that you aren't even sure where to begin in a review. This book moved me so much, that I couldn't even bring myself to review this book until the next day because I cried so much just thinking about it.

Jesse and Sam have been friends since they were toddlers.  Everything is going great until one night during the school play, Jesse is struck with horrible pain.  While in the hospital, Jesse finds out he has cancer.  A form of cancer that will kill him no matter what treatment he undergoes.  Sam is with him the whole time. Jesse doesn't want anyone around him except his childhood friend Sam.  There friendship is so sweet that you can't help but cry at that alone during the book.  During his process of chemo and such, Sam is with Jesse every step of the way. Her grades are failing in school, yet she is determined to be there for Jesse.  Their friendship evolves into something more and their love is shown on each page you read.  From the beginning of page one, to the very last word on the last page, you will be swept up in the pain, love and honesty that the author brings to the book.

I had a very hard time reading this book because of the way their friendship grows into so much more and knowing in my heart what would happen.  Through Jesse's poetry and Sam's struggle of coping, you will find yourself struggling to just make it to the next chapter without having to grab a box of Kleenex.  I had to set the book down several times and convince myself to go on because I was crying so hard.  This book left an impression on me so much that I am still thinking about this book the next day and crying while I write this.

Finding a book that leaves an impression on you like this is a rare find for me. I usually can accept in my mind that it is fiction and move on.  Yet with this book, it left such an impression with me that I can't stop thinking about the last few pages and instantly crying.

A book that will touch your heart and leave you with a lasting impression of true love and friendship. I am so glad to have found this book and look forward to more of this writing style from this author.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

ALL I EVER WANTED by Kristan Higgins

ALL I EVER WANTED
Author: Kristan Higgins
Source: FSB Media
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: HQN Books (July 27, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0373774583
• ISBN-13: 978-0373774586

SYNOPSIS:

One Happily-Ever-After Rocking Chair…

and no sign of any forthcoming babies to rock in ol' Georgebury, Vermont. For Callie Grey, turning thirty means coming to grips with the fact that her boss (and five-week fling) is way overdue in his marriage proposal. And way off track because Mark has suddenly announced his engagement to the company's new Miss Perfect. If that isn't bad enough, her mom decides to throw her a three-oh birthday bash in the family funeral home.

Bad goes to worse when she stirs up a crazy relationship with the town's not so warm and fuzzy veterinarian, Ian McFarland, in order to flag Mark's attention. So Ian is more comfortable with animals…. So he's formal, orderly and just a bit tense. The ever-friendly, fun-loving and spontaneous Callie decides it's time for Ian to get a personality makeover. But dang, if he doesn't shock the heck out of her, she might actually fall for Vermont's unlikeliest eligible bachelor…. 

MY THOUGHTS:

I love finding great contemporary romance books that capture me from the first page! Author Kristan Higgins did another fantastic job with her newest book All I Ever Wanted!

I loved the laugh out loud dialogue and the sweet and perfectly paced love story of Ian and Callie. Callie seemed a little too cheery at times but I guess if my mother was a mortician, my sister a fertility doctor, and living with a grumpy smart mouth Grandpa, I would try to be cheery all the time as well. Ian seemed a little stuffy and rude at first, but once you read into the story he grows on you and opens up as to why he is like this. I couldn't stand the characters of Muriel and Mark. I wanted to throw the book at the wall each time I had to read their actions and dialogue! Yet, through everything that Callie and Ian suffer through, the ending left me feeling the flutters of butterflies! Their love was so sweet and the way Ian declares his love for Callie is so typical of his personality. My only two drawbacks really of the story was the ending seemed too fast paced--almost rushed, and the long detailed paragraphs that could have been shortened.

I truly can't wait to see what the author brings us next time. I have already ordered more of her books to read and loved her writing! A great read for the romance lover at heart!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

BLUSH by Opal Carew

BLUSH
Author: Opal Carew
Source: Library Loan

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; 1st edition (June 24, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312367791
• ISBN-13: 978-0312367794

SYNOPSIS:

Kama Sutra, Tantra, Ménage…are you ready to blush?

Hanna Lane wishes she could shed her inhibitions and unleash her wild side in the bedroom.  When she meets J. M.--a Kama Sutra and Tantra master--they embark on a sizzling path of discovery, exploring the ancient sensual arts and discovering new techniques that allow Hanna to unlock her naughtiest fantasies and make them a red-hot reality.  But when Hanna’s exboyfriend Grey re-enters her life determined to win her back, Hanna longs to share herself with both men.  But can she tell J.M. and Grey her most taboo fantasy?  And who will win her for keeps? 

MY THOUGHTS:

Hanna and Grey were the perfect couple on the outside. On the inside, however, things weren't so perfect.  Grey had a childhood illness that caused him to be sterile.  He feels that if he tells this little secret to Hanna, she will leave him. So he keeps it bottled up inside until Hanna asks him if he loves her.  He never says the words to her and she feels that they should separate.

Hanna also has a problem behind closed doors.  She has never had an orgasm. Grey has tried everything to help her find out why and to help her achieve it.  Before they break up, he enrolled them in a class that helps with Tantra and Kama Sutra in hopes of Hanna being able to figure out why.

Hanna refuses to go to the class out of embarrassment, yet Grey attends it in hopes of learning how to help her and win her back.  The teacher of the class, J.M, gives him pointers and reading to help him on the journey. J.M. meets Hanna at her store and they have a wild fling. She doesn't know that JM is the instructor for the course. Thus, giving us a triangle where none of the people know about the other.

I found this book to be good, but not great.  I loved all of the characters involved. I also understand that some women have this problem, so the plot is not what bothered me.  What bothered me is the fact of the characters not knowing about each other.  It seemed to get repetitive and drawn out. I wanted them to come together and figure it out sooner.  I loved the ending and the witty dialogue the most. The sensual scenes were hot, but I actually cared more about the characters than the sex in this one!

Overall a great erotic read if you love this genre. The author has a great knack for telling her story with just the right amount of love, sex and sensuality to keep you hooked.

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book!

4 STARS

PROMO: Wolf's Soul by Tierney O'Malley

I love this author's writing and I wanted to share with all of my readers her new release! Be sure to check out her site as well for other wonderful stories and what she has in the works!

To keep the woman he loves, he’ll do more than turn his back on his pack.

He’ll fight and kill every shapeshifters in his path.

Damn the consequences. Damn his fifth and last remaining life.

Ruthless, charismatic, and dangerously handsome shapeshifter, Callum Dyrdek abides by his clan’s code - avoid humans, but protect them from their archenemy, the Blood Robbers. But he broke the rules when he meets Marisol, the passionate and kick-ass woman who possesses the powerful ancient sword that belonged to the leader who ruled his clan many centuries ago. He claims her as his. Now, the enemy demands he give up the woman and the sword or they will attack the humans. Will his clan stand behind him after what he has done?Expert swordswoman, Marisol Saint James killed a shapeshifter. Now she’s on the run with another named Callum who wants her sword and has taken her virginity. But until she finds the truth about herself, she must trust him. When Callum put his fifth and last life on the line in exchange for her safety, she intervenes. Callum wants her sword, but she gave him her heart—whole-souled.

 AUTHORS WEBSITE

INTERVIEW: Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Hi Everyone! I am glad to have author Lauren Baratz-Logsted stop by my blog for one of her tour stops! She is the author of Crazy Beautiful and has another wonderful book coming out on August 31, 2010 called The Twin's Daughter. 

Since you and your Husband write as a team, tell the readers honestly, how many times did you want to poke each others eyes out with the pencils when writing the books? Or is the writing process fairly easy together?

Well, don't forget that our 10-year-old daughter Jackie is in on the act where the creation of The Sisters 8 is concerned, so there are actually three of us poking each other in the eye over here. Seriously, there is no poking involved and no eyes have been sacrificed for this book project. We all brainstorm the ideas for each book together and then I do the writing. Since I do the actual writing - and I'm the one that keeps what will eventually be over 1000 pages of material in her head - the other two have granted me final veto power. Knowing that power is there keeps me from being tempted to poke. In fact the only times I am tempted to poke is when they throw too many ideas at me all at once.  

If you would like to see more interview questions answered by the author check out the next tour stop:

July 26: Christina  http://insertbooktitle.blogspot.com/

Thank you so much for joining me today Lauren! I wish you great success on the new book! 

TO CONQUER A HIGHLANDER by Mary Wine

TO CONQUER A HIGHLANDER
Author: Mary Wine
Source: Sourcebooks
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (July 6, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402237375
• ISBN-13: 978-1402237379

SYNOPSIS:


A fierce Highland laird ready to kill for king and country...

When Torin McLeren discovers his neighbor's plot against his king, he takes their daughter as his prisoner, thereby stopping her father's plot from going forward. But that leaves him with a woman under his roof whom he can't ignore, and not just because she's his enemy's daughter...

A woman who's as much trouble as she is temptation...

Shannon McBoyd decides to use her captor to experience passion for the first time, and then to destroy him. But her plan goes awry because once she has lured Torin into her bed, she no longer wants to hurt the one man who seems to value and understand her...

Even if her father will kill him-and her-when he discovers what they've done...

MY THOUGHTS:

I was a little hesitant starting this book.  I wasn't sure if I was going to like it going into the first chapter. I am so glad I kept reading.

I like the heroine Shannon. She is a strong personality that fits perfectly with the strong willed Torin.  The witty dialogue was feisty and fun that was executed in the perfect parts of the book.  The sexiness of the book was perfect without going overboard and left me wanting even more.  The author does go into detail a lot, but something I was willing to overlook since I loved the characters so much. This was my first read by this author and I definitely will be keeping my eye out for more Scots and Damsels from a wonderful writer!

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

FAR FROM YOU by Lisa Schroeder

FAR FROM YOU
Author: Lisa Schroeder

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Simon Pulse; 1 edition (January 5, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1416975071
• ISBN-13: 978-1416975076

SYNOPSIS:

Lost and alone down the rabbit hole. 

Alice thought she knew
what solitude was:
Her mother—gone
Her father—remarried with a newborn
daughter.
Now...
trapped
in the icy embrace
of a deadly snowstorm
Alice faces the true meaning of loneliness.
But hope
may not be as far away
as she thinks....

MY THOUGHTS:

I am not a big fan of books written in verse.  I have a hard time finding authors who can pull it off without the plot getting jumbled.  However, as I started to read this book, I fell in love with this style of writing.

The author pulled a rabbit out of her hat and let the plot flow gracefully.  I enjoyed the characters and the author was able to tell her story through verse without the confusion that is sometimes found with verse.  I loved the journey that Alice is involved in.  I loved how she acted like a normal teenager with real problems.  I could understand how she felt about having a stepmother and new sister on the way.  You could actually feel the hurt and abandonment that Alice feels through the words on the page.

Then when they get stuck in the storm, Alice has a moment where everything becomes clear and has a new outlook on everything.  She can see the actual person behind the role of stepmother and shocks herself in her discovery.  Everything the author writes in this book is perfect. She was able to impress me with the writing style of verse.  A rabbit hole that I am glad to have fallen into and joined on the adventure.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

FORGET YOU by Jennifer Echols

FORGET YOU
Author: Jennifer Echols
Source: Around The World Tours

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: MTV; Original edition (July 20, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439178232
• ISBN-13: 978-1439178232

SYNOPSIS:
WHY CAN’T YOU CHOOSE WHAT YOU FORGET . . .  AND WHAT YOU REMEMBER?  There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up his twenty-four- year old girlfriend. Like Zoey’s fear that the whole town will find out about her mom’s nervous breakdown. Like darkly handsome bad boy Doug taunting her at school. Feeling like her life is about to become a complete mess, Zoey fights back the only way she knows how, using her famous attention to detail to make sure she’s the perfect daughter, the perfect student, and the perfect girlfriend to ultra-popular football player Brandon.  But then Zoey is in a car crash, and the next day there’s one thing she can’t remember at all—the entire night before. Did she go parking with Brandon, like she planned? And if so, why does it seem like Brandon is avoiding her? And why is Doug—of all people— suddenly acting as if something significant happened between the two of them? Zoey dimly remembers Doug pulling her from the wreck, but he keeps referring to what happened that night as if it was more, and it terrifies Zoey to admit how much is a blank to her. Controlled, meticulous Zoey is quickly losing her grip on the all-important details of her life—a life that seems strangely empty of Brandon, and strangely full of Doug.  

MY THOUGHTS:

WOW! Amazing! Astounding! Breathtaking! Unforgettable!

Okay I assume you are wanting more of a review than just that one line. If I were to try and describe this book though, I am afraid I would give up spoilers and basically, I also don't think I could do it justice.  This is the first book that I have been able to read so far by this author.  I have heard about her writing and how well she can create a story, but I never fully understood what this author is capable of.  So instead of trying to describe a brilliant book, I am just going to give you my opinions on the characters.

Zoey - I actually liked Zoey. She has been through a lot. Between her jerk of a father and mom who is a little mentally unstable, she has held herself together pretty well.  The one thing I didn't like about her though, was how she automatically assumes since she slept with Brandon--knowing his personality--that they are a couple because of one night of sex in a vehicle. 

Brandon - A football jock who thinks he is a sex God.  Yeah, that just about sums him up.  He has been friends with Zoey for awhile and they are like best friends.  He always comes to Zoey for advice on girls and she always gives it to him.

Doug - Ah, Doug. The bad boy of the book who spent time in juvie and got suspended from school for fighting. He has had a crush on Zoey for a long time, but everyone is afraid of him.  You can't help but fall for Doug throughout the book.  I hate how long it takes Zoey to figure this out!

All I can say is if you haven't read this book yet then you are missing out.  You really need to go buy it and dive into this book! I know I will be buying it and the rest of her books as well!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

Shoulder Bags and Shootings by Dorothy Howell

SHOULDER BAGS & SHOOTINGS
Author: Dorothy Howell
Source: FSB Media
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Kensington (July 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0758223781
• ISBN-13: 978-0758223784

SYNOPSIS:

Fashionista and amateur sleuth Haley Randolph is in hot pursuit of the season's newest must- have handbag. But soon she's also in hot pursuit of a killer -- when she discovers the corpse of none other than her designer purse party rival . . .

Life is beyond fabulous at the moment for Haley Randolph. She just spent two amazing weeks in Europe with her boyfriend Ty Cameron, owner of Holt's Department Store where Haley works. And now Ty's grandmother, Ada, is letting Haley drive her way-cool Mercedes. Things would be perfect if she could just get her hands on her latest fashion obsession: the new Sinful handbag.

Every store in town is out of stock, and Haley would rather die than buy a knockoff. But when she finds the body of her nemesis, Tiffany Markham, in the trunk of Ada's Mercedes, she's not so sure she wants to trade places after all . . .

Topping the list of suspects, Haley doesn't deny seeing red when Tiffany and her business partner not only stole her purse party idea, but also made more money. But Haley wasn't jealous enough to commit murder. Now she'll have to solve this mystery quickly -- and find that Sinful bag -- before she becomes a killer's next fashion fatality . . .

SPECIAL FEATURE:

My mom wanted to read and review this book as well. So here is my moms review--

If you need a book to read quickly, without having to think too much, this is the book for you.  The lead character, Haley Randolph, has eyes for only two things in life: her new love and boss Ty Cameron, and snagging an authentic new Sinful handbag.  While obsessing over these two desires, she finds herself in the middle of a mess when a body is found in the trunk of the car she is using.  The corpse belongs to her rival, Tiffany.  Can she find the handbag, hang onto her man and solve the murder before she becomes the next victim?

This book would probably have been more interesting if I got to know Haley a little better.  I didn't read the two previous Haley Randolph novels, and many references are made to them.  Haley seems to be too flighty and self-obsessed to worry about murder. I suggest reading the series in the order the were written. With a little more depth to the character, I would enjoy it more.  This book would be suited to taking on vacation or to the beach .  

MY THOUGHTS:

I agree with my mother's review of this book. I had not read the previous books either and was left scratching my head at some of the references the author makes. Haley does come across flaky and aloof. She cares more about the bag than anything.  The repetitiveness and failed humor was a huge turn off for me in the book.  A good beach read if you read it as a series and not a stand alone book, but one that I would consider carefully before spending your money on it.


MY RATING:

 
I did not enjoy this book! 1 STAR

COVER ALERT! The Lost Saint

Author Bree Despain just announced on her blog this morning the FABULOUS cover reveal for The Lost Saint!! Look at the GORGEOUS cover!!! Oh, and did I mention she has a contest going on as well? Go check out the info on her site!

BLOG TOUR: Liberation by Maria Lucia

Thanks to Pump Up Your Book Tours, I have the pleasure of introducing you to author Maria Lucia on My Overstuffed Bookshelf.  She is the author of Liberation and was kind enough to also provide a guest post about A Day in the Life of Writing For An Author.

Book One of The Andrusian Chronicles 

Amora Madre is content in the Smokey Mountains pursuing her teaching of love, things of the spirit, and metaphysics. Her childhood invisible playmates, Casey and Nia, are always by her side. But when soul mate Gabriel Ephraim enters her life, she is drawn into the heart of a horrific encounter with the spirit world in the skies over Washington D.C. Catapulted into service for the Intergalactic Supernatural Intelligence Agency, ISIA, the kindred lovers soon discover the existence of an invisible wickedness over the city, its galactic origins, and its evil designs for national and world events.

As part of an Andrusian galactic strike force, assembled to dismantle the malevolent legion’s brutal matrix, Amora and Gabriel, seasoned and accomplished, embark on a dangerous adventure filled with Onaweyans, Scorpillians, historical figures, and a confrontation with the dark supernatural syndicate over the fate of the United States and the earth.

With journeys into dimensional worlds, interactions with fantastic characters and creatures, and revelation of the current struggle between the spiritual forces of good and evil, LIBERATION draws the reader into a world where the spiritual dimensions and reality converge.  

GUEST POST:

Well, it all begins during your sleep time really, as you wake up and catch yourself pulling your hair while you sleep because the story is playing itself out in your dreams. So you wake up at three in the morning with a pen and pad and sit (sometimes on the toilet because it’s so urgent you have to do both) and write down the scene that’s trying to write itself in your head. But you have to get it right. So you scribble down pieces and words of dialogue for the characters which are crucial to creating the emotional setting you want. If you’re in a relationship, it can be trying since it involves turning on the lights to write. Then after a night of broken sleep you wake up for the day and go over your notes and try to make sense of what you where trying to convey. You sit in your chair with your coffee staring out the window wondering when you will find the will to get up and go to the computer. But then you do. You do it many times because you want to continue the story, you want to see it take shape. So you put in whatever time you can and stop to breathe and take in what you’re asking of yourself. 

Your back aches and so does your neck and out of self compassion you take a break for lunch. But there is something pulling at you. It pulls at you all of the time. “You have to keep going” a voice stresses in your head. But you’re tired and you really want to do something else. But the voice continues, it bugs you until you finally sit at the computer again to keep going, to keep bringing into form the story you promised to write. Only the story has you now and it begins to take hold of your time. Each day it gets stronger until you’re thinking about it all of the time, like a lover. Slowly you give in and allow the tale to tell itself. You become the instrument and give to it as much of yourself as you can, every day, until it’s done.

You can find out more about Maria Lucia at www.andrusianchronicles.com and watch her book video here and order a copy of her book at Amazon

Click HERE for the tour schedule!

SHOW ME THE SHELVES SUNDAY!

Welcome to my new feature Show Me The Shelves!  This feature was inspired by Book Chick City!  Each Sunday I will feature a fellow blogger and their collection to showcase on my blog.  So sit back, enjoy the pictures that will cause you to drool, and know that you are not alone in hoarding your books!

Anna from Anna's Book Blog

Hey everyone! Amy asked if I wanted to share my bookshelves on her new feature. I thought why not, I had be meaning to do this post on my blog for a while but kept putting it off.  So here they are.

The first picture is one of my main bookcase. As you can see I collect more than just books. I'm a child of the 80's and it shows when you walk into my bedroom.  Now I don't keep every book I read or I wouldn't have any room at all. This bookcase is mainly paperbacks. For the most part each shelf is organized alphabetically by author.  The fourth shelf down holds some of my TBR Books. These don't fit on my TBR shelf.

This is my other main bookcase. Both the first one and this one are located in my room. These

books are mostly organized by author too.  The books are The Dark-Hunters series, Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers and Graphic Novels/Manga.

Bookcase number 3 is located out in my hallway. This is my newest bookcase.  I got this one for review from CSN Stores.  Again organized by Author. It holds Young Adult books and some more paperbacks.

My TBR shelf. This shelf is connected to my head board.  These books consist of ones I want to read and review books. The hardcovers aren't usually there. I normally keep them out in the hall bookcase.

And lastly Amy asked me to pick out three of my favorite books from my collection. At first I thought she was crazy and now I know she's just evil.  Three books, the choosing was hard. Here are my picks:

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris - This was the first Paranormal Romance book I read and it's one of my favorite series.  I'm a big ol' fan girl when it comes to this series. I actually have three different copies of this book.

Hunters: The Beginnings by Shiloh Walker - Hunters series is another favorite. This series introduced me to ebooks and Ellora's Cave.  The first story in this book was the first ebook I read. I read it on my computer. I didn't purchase the paperback until much later. I'm so glad for my Kindle and ereader.

The Mane Event by Shelly Laurenston -  This is the first book in the Pride stories. I picked this book out because this series has been my obsession of 2010.  I love these books and have said so many times on my blog. Sadly, I've read all the books in the series. So, now I have to wait how every long until the next one.

Amy, Thanks for having me at your blog. :]

Thanks for sharing Anna!!!

If you would like to have your shelves featured on the blog, just send me an email at

djsfoxylady (at) gmail (dot) com