CONTEST & INTERVIEW with Lynsay Sands

I had the extreme pleasure of talking to Lynsay and she agreed to get in touch with Justin Bricker, who just happens to be my favorite Immortal of the series!  Well, guess who stopped by My Overstuffed Bookshelf to answer some questions for us?

Yep, Bricker sat down with me for a lovely chat and even told me that author Lynsay Sands has agreed to give away ONE SIGNED copy of her latest book, Hungry For You!  You don't even know how jealous I am right now of the winner who will receive this book!  It is a dream of mine to meet Lynsay Sands and having a signed copy of one of her books would probably send me into cardiac arrest!  So stay tuned for the giveaway after I share with you the lovely and sexy interview that Bricker and I had!

INTERVIEW WITH JUSTIN BRICKER:

1. How does it feel being one of the younger Enforcers of the bunch?

Well, I keep the ‘old timers’ on their toes. If it wasn’t for me, they wouldn’t know a thing about stuff like social niceties, microwaves or even how to get to know a woman without creeping her out or scaring her senseless. They can be pretty clueless.

2. Is Lucien really as strict and mean as we all seem to think? Is he really a softy at heart? 

 

Lucian’s a great guy He’s a good friend and cool under fire. He may be strict and seem hard at times, but as enforcers we all have to be that way occasionally. Lucian, though, carries more responsibility than the rest of us, and has forever, so some of that has become more ingrained in him. As for a softy at heart…well, he does have a soft spot when it comes to his family, but…I wouldn’t suggest making the mistake of thinking he’s a softy.

3. I see Lucien is getting ready to welcome a new baby to the fold.  Does it make you think about what your future may bring?

Uh… NO. LOL. I mean, sure, it would be nice to have a life mate some day, but I’m far too young to think about that yet. There are too many lovely ladies out there in need of attention from a guy like me. Life is good. No, I’ll worry about that whole life mate stuff when I’m older…like two hundred or something.

4.  Truthfully now Bricker, how many times have you slipped the others bags of those special blood drinks?  You seem like the one who would spike their blood bags with the alcohol so to speak.

Who? Me? Never! Or, at least, if I have, I’ll never tell. LOL.

5.  After watching so many of your friends find life mates recently, are you getting anxious to find that special someone for yourself?

Like I said, I hope to meet my life mate some day, but I’m not rushing it. Well, you know, maybe some days I wonder what it would be like to have that special someone. But, mostly, I’m perfectly comfortable in my single status at the moment… thanks.

6.  Sometimes I have premonitions and I see your life mate being named Amy? Could you see yourself with an Amy? 

 

Whatever are you suggesting, Amy?

7.  You know I have been hinting to Lynsay about you meeting me. I could be your life mate you know.  Maybe you ought to whisper in her ear for me.  

 

It might be more fun to whisper in yours. Lynsay’s kind of a workaholic. No fun at all, and she never listens to anyone when it comes to things like that. Kind of a stick in the mud, too. But, never fear, I’m sure Morty and the Muppets will eventually go on tour and make it out to your neck of the woods soon.

8.  Any news on what is to come with your next assignment? ( And I do mean the Enforcer job, not the band gigs you use for a cover)

You know about that, huh? LOL. Ok… Morty and the Muppets is a cover but you have to admit, it’s a good one. As for my next assignment, Lucian doesn’t tell us anything until we’re packing to go. After this, I’m heading back to the enforcer house. Lucian’s nephew, Cale, is in town and supposed to be headed there. He’s European. French, I guess. Haven’t met him yet. Not sure why he’s coming either, which has us all curious. He’s not an enforcer, and the scuttlebutt is Marguerite has something to do with it. If so…well, things could get interesting.

9.  Besides you and I, who do you think Marguerite will try to pair up next? 

 

We single guys are dropping like flies these days, aren’t we? Thats okay though, leaves more women for me… Now, hmmm….Well I hope for Mortimer’s sake that the next match will involve Alex, Sam’s sister, as Sam won’t allow herself to be turned until she finds her sister a life mate. And then there’s Christian, Marguerite’s son, who’s just ripe for the picking…. To be perfectly honest, I hope no more enforcers get leg-shackled for a while. We’re stretched pretty thin as it is right now with Decker, Mortimer, Eshe and Lucian being so distracted. This life mate business really does make them… erm… well… stupid actually and when you’re on the job that puts everyone at risk.

10.  Thank you Bricker for joining me today! I hope I get to meet you soon!

My pleasure, Amy. Why don’t you give me your number and if I’m in the area….

GIVEAWAY:

This vampire has been alone for far too long . . .
As one of the most ancient in the Argeneau clan, Cale Valens has given up on finding a life mate. His friends and family, however, have not. In fact, they believe they've finally found his perfect match. Getting them together, however, requires one little white lie . . .
Alexandra Willan is in a panic. Her restaurant is due to open in two weeks, but her chef just walked out. Then a highly recommended replacement arrives, an impossibly handsome culinary genius who sends electric tingles racing through her body . . .
Except he can't cook. In fact, Cale hasn't eaten real food in two thousand years. Yet he's determined to prove to Alex his prowess in the kitchen . . . and elsewhere. Because never has he hungered so for any mortal woman. And not just for a taste of her, but for the whole delicious feast! 

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks to author Lynsay Sands, I have ONE SIGNED COPY of Hungry For You to giveaway!  

 RULES:

1. Contest is open to USA and Canada.

2.  Just leave a comment with an email address for contact purposes in case you are chosen as the winner.

3.  No need to be a follower, but I would love it if you would join my site!

4.  Contest will end on Dec. 5th, 2010 with the winner being chosen and announced on Dec. 6th, 2010.

ENTRY:

JUST ANSWER THIS QUESTION:

Have you ever read any books by Lynsay Sands?  If so, which book and character was you favorite?

Honky Tonk Christmas by Carolyn Brown

HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS

Author: Carolyn Brown

Source: Publisher

* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (October 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402242018
• ISBN-13: 978-1402242014

SUMMARY:

She Means business...

Sharlene Waverly is determined to have the "new and improved" Honky Tonk up and running before the holiday. For that, she'll need Holt Jackson, the best darn carpenter in the state. But his warm, whisky-colored eyes make her insides melt, and before she knows it, she's sharing her darkest secrets and talking about the nightmares...

He's determined to keep things professional...

Holt Jackson needs the job at the Honky Tonk, but is completely unprepared to handle the beautiful new bar owner he's working for.

Sharlene and Holt try like crazy to deny the sparks flying between them, but their love may just be the best Christmas present either one of them ever got.

MY THOUGHTS:

In Honky Tonk Christmas, we meet Sharlene and Holt.  This is the fourth book in the series by this author. 

A family man with  looks to kill, Holt was a sexy and fun character with personality! He has a heart of gold and the patience of a snail when it comes to Sharlene and family.  He was the perfect man in many ways.  Sharlene on the other hand was not one of my favorite characters only because of her personality.  At times she could be negative and not realize what was right in front of her.  She needed a little shove now and again which left me frustrated with her at times.

 The kids in this book also made for a special treat.  The were cute and fun which also means sneaky when it comes to kids!  I loved how they interacted with Sharlene and Holt. 

After reading the whole series, I am glad with it as a whole. Each book brought something fun and sparks between characters that fit together nicely.  If you like your western romance books, then this would make a great read for the holiday season as well.  

MY RATING:

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

WINNER!!! The Lost Saint ARC and Nail Polish

The contest for the ARC of The Lost Saint and matching bottle of nail polish has ended.  Using Random.org, the winner is:

jacmom 

Congrats!!!!

You have 48 hours to respond with your mailing address! Thank you to everyone who entered and spread the word!  

12 Days of Christmas Contest is Coming!!CLOSED

IT'S COMING!!!

Starting December 1rst, I will be featuring 12 whole days of contests just for you!  Each day will be a new contest featuring different prizes from different publishers. There will even be fun little questions with each post!

Since the contest doesn't start until the first of December, I thought I would do a small giveaway now.  I am a horrible person when it comes to waiting until Christmas day to open my presents, so I thought we would get some excitement going now! 

I am going to give away one large envelope full of swag items to one lucky person!  The envelope will not only have a ton of bookmarks, but it can also include items such as author pens, notepads, etc. It will be like a large Christmas present in itself because you will have so many goodies to dig through. 

All you have to do for the swag envelope is make a post on your blog announcing my contest!  I have included a badge for you to go along with it below. Just copy and paste the code with your blog post.  Then just come here and leave a comment with a link to your post and you are entered! No need to be a follower, but I would love it if you would be!

This contest will end on Tuesday Nov.30th with the actual 12 Days of Christmas Contest starting the following day! 

<center><a href="http://myoverstuffedbookshelf.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq331/djsfoxylady/12daysofchristmas-1-1.png" /></a></center>

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

From my family to yours!

Re-Create A Cover Contest Winner!!!

Time to announce a winner of the Ghost Town by Rachel Caine Re-Create A Cover Contest! Author Rachel Caine has been touring, so we had to wait for her to return to pick the winner. Here is the original cover:

And here is the winning cover with a note from author Rachel Caine:

WINNER: 

MICHY

"I think that although it was VERY close, and there were so absolutely stunning entries in the contest, I have to go with Michy's beautiful design. I really liked the eerie, yet very real vibe to it. You guys are crazy amazing! Thank you so much for participating, and I'm sorry to be so late in getting back to you ... I was touring, and then I was sick, and this is my first day of kinda being back to normal. (As normal as I ever am ...?)

THANK YOU so much for participating, and Amy, thank you so much for hosting this contest!!"

 

Thank YOU Rachel for the amazing stories you bring us! The winner has 48 hours to respond!

The Taming of the Wolf by Lydia Dare

THE TAMING OF THE WOLF
Author: Lydia Dare
Source: Publisher
* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (November 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402244371
• ISBN-13: 978-1402244377

SUMMARY:

Regency England has gone to the wolves!

He could never lose control...
Dashiel Thorpe, Earl of Brimsworth, has spent his life fighting the wolf within him. But when the full moon rises, Dash is helpless. A chance encounter with Caitrin Macleod on a moonlit night inadvertently binds the two together irrevocably, and Dash's impulsiveness plunges them both into a nightmare...

She never saw him coming...
Caitrin Macleod is no quiet country lass, but a witch with remarkable abilities. But when it comes to Dashiel, she's as helpless to fight his true nature as he is. Her senses overwhelmed, she runs back to the safety and security of her native Scotland... 

But Dashiel is determined to follow her-she's the only woman who can free him from a fate worse than death. And Caitrin will ultimately have to decide whether she's running from danger, or true love...

MY THOUGHTS:

What more can I say about this author and her books that I haven't said before?  The books are amazing and the writing is spectacular! With each book, my love of the series just grows even more!

Like the title suggests, Dashiel must learn how to tame his beast side.  Unfortunately, Caitrin finds herself mixed into the lesson against her will.  It leaves consequences that will leave both of them with choices to make.  They each have their own set of secrets they choose to keep, while Dash is trying to convince Caitrin to marry him.

Filled with humor, secrets, suspense and exceptional writing, I found myself actually liking Dash  in this book.  I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy his story since he was around in previous books.  Yet, after just a few chapters, Dash grew on me.  Now that I have finished the story, I find myself missing him!

Caitrin was headstrong and matched Dash perfectly!  She wasn't going to just roll over and give in to him just because he wanted her to.  She was the perfect balance to Dash's personality.  She could match him with each remark he made.  I loved seeing her interact with Dash.

If you are a fan of Lydia Dare and her series, then this is another amazing read to add to your collection!  You won't be disappointed and the books are just getting better with each one!

MY RATING:

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

(ARC Review) The Lost Saint by Bree Despain

THE LOST SAINT
Dark Divine Novel #2
Author: Bree Despain
Source: Publisher
* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 416 pages
• Publisher: EgmontUSA (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1606840584
• ISBN-13: 978-1606840580

SUMMARY:

Grace Divine made the ultimate sacrifice to cure Daniel Kalbi. She was infected with the werewolf curse while trying to save him, and lost her beloved brother in the process. 

Desperate to find Jude, Grace befriends Talbot, a newcomer to town. But as the two grow closer, Grace’s relationship with Daniel is put in danger — in more ways than one. 

Unaware of the dark path she is walking, Grace begins to give into the wolf inside of her — not realizing that an enemy has returned and a deadly trap is about to be sprung. 

MY THOUGHTS:

After reading The Dark Divine, I was hooked on this authors writing and story.  When I heard that The Lost Saint would be released in December, I was on cloud nine!  I knew that this would be another action packed and heart stopping read to follow up the first book.  When the publisher offered it to me for review, I clicked yes and sent that email faster than I could blink. That is how much I love this author and her story!

When The Lost Saint starts out, Daniel is training Grace to balance her new powers. Grace needs to learn how to control the wolf so it doesn't overtake her.  While they are star gazing afterwards, Grace receives a call from Daniels phone.  We find out that Jude is on the other line and trying to warn Grace.  When Daniel and Grace arrive at Daniels house though, Jude is already gone.

From that chapter on, the book is filled with suspense and mystery.  Daniel starts to change in personality and you will be surprised as to why.  I actually found myself getting mad at Daniel throughout this book and couldn't believe half of what he was doing!  I wanted Grace to slap some sense into him!  I missed the Daniel from the first book and the author teased you throughout the whole story with the sudden change in Daniel.  When the book comes to a close, we realize why Daniel has been acting the way he has and it will throw not only the reader for a shock, but for Grace as well.  I had tears in the last chapter and couldn't believe the author left us with that cliffhanger!  I wanted to throw the book in frustration and call Ms. Despain up and ask her how she could do that to us!

Now, as the release date approaches,  I find myself undecided if I should let the author know how frustrated I am!  On one hand it is great for the book, but on the other hand, I am one frustrated and impatient reader!  The author needs to write faster and give the reader more quickly!  This is one series that just keeps getting better with each book.  I look forward to the next book in the series!  This is one series that does not disappoint and will keep the reader engaged in the plot up until the last page.  Have tissues on hand and be prepared to read from page one straight to the end with no breaks!

MY RATING:

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

(ARC Review) Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

DEMONGLASS
Hex Hall #2
Author: Rachel Hawkins
Source: Around the World Tours

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: Hyperion Book CH (February 15, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1423121317
• ISBN-13: 978-1423121312

SUMMARY:

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Acher to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

MY THOUGHTS:

Oh my! Where do I even begin with this book? After reading Hex Hall, I was so excited to read this book!  The cover was amazing, and the book surpassed my expectations! Author Rachel Hawkins has an amazing gift for writing books that capture your interest and keep you gripping the pages until the end.

Sophie is such an amazing main character! It seems nothing fazes her, but we all know that inside she is far from calm at times.  Of course we get to be introduced to Archer again, and be prepared to be swooning.  We finally get some background on him that makes the character realistic and believable.  We also get to meet Sophie's Father in this book. Not only does he make an appearance, but it is in the beginning of the book when it matters, not near the end at a climax. Cal also makes a reappearance and when you find out why he so involved in this book by Chapter 3, you will be shocked and laughing at the whole situation. Be prepared to have your feelings flip flop between Cal and Archer by the end of the book.  I was on the fence about this part of the story only because it is such a hard decision that Sophie will have to make.

Full of surprises and gripping suspense, the author balances the fun and romance as well.  With another cliffhanger to tease the readers, all I can say is write faster Rachel Hawkins! Don't leave us in suspense again for too long!  Demonglass, in my opinion, was better than Hex Hall.  The writing has improved, the story is progressing, and the witty dialogue and suspense is amazing!

MY RATING:

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

Slayed by Amanda Marrone

SLAYED
Author: Amanda Marrone

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Simon Pulse; Original edition (October 5, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1416994874
• ISBN-13: 978-1416994879

SUMMARY:

The Van Helsing family has been hunting vampires for over one hundred years, but sixteen-year-old Daphne wishes her parents would take up an occupation that doesn’t involve decapitating vamps for cash. All Daphne wants is to settle down in one place, attend an actual school, and finally find a BFF to go to the mall with. Instead, Daphne has resigned herself to a life of fast food, cheap motels and buying garlic in bulk. 

But when the Van Helsings are called to a coastal town in Maine, Daphne’s world is turned upside down. Not only do the Van Helsings find themselves hunting a terrifying new kind of vampire (one without fangs but with a taste for kindergarten cuisine), Daphne meets her first potential BF! The hitch? Her new crush is none other than Tyler Harker, AKA, the son of the rival slayer family. 

What's a teen vampire slayer to do? 

MY THOUGHTS:

First of all, I love the cover!  I love the upshot angle of the camera focusing on our heroine with the stake in her hand. Unfortunately, that was about all that I loved about this book.

Daphne dreams of being a normal teenage girl with normal friends and school.  Unfortunately, she comes from a long line of vampire slayers and is forced by her parents to stay true to the family business.  While I wasn't a big fan of Daphne, I did enjoy Kiki in the story.  She was a laugh out loud riot throughout the whole story. 

The writing wasn't amazing, but it was bearable.  It came across childish even though Daphne is suppose to be seventeen in the story.  I felt she acted more like a fifteen year old than a near adult.  The plot of the story also left me feeling like the story would never end.  Sometimes this can be a good thing, but in this instance, it was tiresome and I found myself hoping each chapter was the last. The story could have been great, yet I felt it only to be so-so.  The characters never really captured my interest enough to really care what happened.

An okay book, but not one I would reread anytime soon, if ever.

MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

The Cries of Vampira by Sean H. Robertson

THE CRIES OF VAMPIRA:

The Horror of Gaad Grey

The Evil Alpha Werewolf--Vol. 1

Author: Sean H. Robertson

Source: Author Submission

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Paperback: 82 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace (November 2, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1453808418
• ISBN-13: 978-1453808412

SUMMARY:

Princess Kristin, Princess Kylie and Prince Kolbe Robertson are Triplet Teen Assassin Vampires. Their royal family, the Robertson Clan, occupied the throne of Scotland during the 11th and 12th centuries. Their peaceful homeland of Vampira is under daily attack from the evil Alpha Werewolf Gaad Grey and his horde of Grey Wolves, who seek to decimate the Vampire species and enslave humanity as well.

 MY THOUGHTS:

When I accepted this book for review, I thought this was going to be another vampire versus werewolves book.  What surprised me about this book though, was that there was so much more to it. 

While the cover is eerie and dark, it seems to fit the tone of the book perfectly.  This isn't a light read about just romance and such.  There is a message behind the writing and the author did a wonderful job of weaving it into a fantastical tale.

While I won't go as far to say that this book was outstanding and one of my favorites of the year, I will give it kudos on being something different and not what I expected it to be.  What I love the most about this book is that with every purchase of this book, 10% of all the proceeds will be donated to The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.  For the small price of this book, you are helping people who may need it in a great time of need. 

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

CONTEST: The Lost Saint ARC + Nail Polish

 CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED

How many of you are waiting for the second installment in The Dark Divine Series by Bree Despain?  I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this wonderful book for review, which you can find HERE.  Thanks to the publishers though, I have an extra The Lost Saint ARC copy plus ONE bottle of The Lost Saint nail polish to giveaway to one lucky person!

*Spoiler Alert* - If you have not read The Dark Divine, this synopsis may contain spoilers.

Grace Divine made the ultimate sacrifice to cure Daniel Kalbi. She was infected with the werewolf curse while trying to save him, and lost her beloved brother in the process. When Grace receives a haunting phone call from Jude, she knows what she must do. She must become a Hound of Heaven.

Desperate to find Jude, Grace befriends Talbot—a newcomer to town who promises her that he can help her be a hero. But as the two grow closer, the wolf grows in Grace, and her relationship with Daniel is put in danger—in more ways than one.

Unaware of the dark path she is walking, Grace begins to give into the wolf inside of her—not realizing that an enemy has returned and a deadly trap is about to be sprung.

RULES AND ENTRY:

1. Must be in the USA.

2. No need to be a follower but I would love it if you would be!

3. Leave a comment on this post with an email address for contact if you win.

4. If you tweet about the contest, please leave the DIRECT link in a separate comment for an extra entry.  (it will only qualify and be counted if left in a separate comment)

5. Contest will end 11/26/2010

(ARC Review) Where I Belong by Gwendolyn Heasley

WHERE I BELONG
Author: Gwendolyn Heasley
Source: Around The World Tours

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: HarperTeen (February 8, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061978841
• ISBN-13: 978-0061978845

SUMMARY:

Corrinne Corcoran’s upscale Manhattan life is perfectly on track—until her father announces he’s been laid off and she’s shipped off to Broken Spoke, Texas, to live with her grandparents. All alone in a big public school and forced to take a job shoveling manure, Corrinne is determined to get back to the glamorous life she’s supposed to be living. But as she grudgingly adjusts—making new friends and finding romance along the way—this city girl begins to realize that life without credit cards and shopping sprees may not be as bad as it seems.... 

MY THOUGHTS:

When you read the first page of the book, you know exactly how the main character is going to be.  Basically the first page is a letter from Corrinne to the reader.  She tells you that when reading this book, you are going to not enjoy her attitude and demeanor.  I found this to be very accurate.


When Corrinne's Father loses his job due to the recession, her family is forced to sell their home in New York.  While her father travels abroad to find work, Corrinne is forced to move to Broken Spoke, Texas with her brother Tripp.  While living with her Grandparent's, Corrinne whines about anything and everything.  She can't stand to live in a place where Sonic is considered fine dining, and football is the favorite past time.


Throughout this book I agreed with the letter from the character.  I couldn't stand Corrinne.  She was spoiled, whined on almost every page, and basically a teenage brat.  If she didn't get exactly what she wanted, she made sure to tell everyone who was listening a poor-me tantrum.  I didn't see much of an improvement in the character by the end of the book either.  Sure, she learned to like Sonic and Texan fun, but she still had the spoiled princess persona that grew irritating with each chapter.  There isn't much romance in the book, and it is left with no real resolve at the end with what romance it does have.  


To me this was an okay book, but not one that blew me away like I was hoping. I think the ending of the book needed more to it, and a better outcome that what is revealed in the last chapter. 


MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

Publishing Spotlight: Academic Success for All Learners

Today I want to share something special for my readers.  I went to my daughters school last week and the teacher mentioned the Reading Program she was going to introduce for the second quarter.  She handed me a book that she raved about that brought great success with the children in learning to read.  When she handed me the books to look at, I couldn't help but notice how faded and worn out the books were.  I mentioned to her that I didn't think the books would handle another year of kids handling them.  She told me that these were the best Kindergarten reading books she has ever used and she wishes that she could afford more for the class.  You see our small town has schools with small town budgets.  I felt sad that these children might not even get to finish the program due to the books falling apart!  Reading is crucial and if the teacher is raving about these books being the best out there for young readers to learn with, then I wanted to help.

I looked online and contacted the publisher about these books.  I let them know about how the teacher raved about them. I asked if there was anyway their company could donate one set for the classroom .  Imagine my surprise when not only did they respond, but they were willing to donate FOUR sets to my daughters classroom!!

My daughter with her friends and teacher showing off her new books!

(yes, my daughter is the one with the goofy smile in the center! LOL)

Academic Success For All Learners went out of their way and shipped the first set in the I See Sam series.  I can honestly say that these books are amazing for young readers to start learning with.  My daughter has learned how to read 2 of these books already, and she always asks for more! This company has even started a Facebook page to help share news about their books!  They are even focusing on over the next few months helping out a group doing some work on literacy issues in Liberia Africa.  I urge you to take a look at their Loving Through Literacy Campaign they have going on right now.  They will be doing some various fundraisers to help support literacy in young children.

I personally want to thank this company for everything they have done and will do.  For one small town school, you have just opened up a new world of reading through your books for our children!

WEBSITE: http://iseesam.com/

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/iseesam

Loving Through Literacy Campaign: http://lovingthroughliteracy.com/

COVER ALERT!! Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles

Summary: 

Luis Fuentes is a good boy who doesn't live with the angst that his big brothers, Alex and Carlos, have always lived with. Luis is smart, funny, and has big dreams of becoming an astronaut. But when he falls for the wrong girl, Luis enters a dark world he's never known, and just when he thinks he's got life all figured out, learns some disturbing news about his family that destroys his positive outlook on life. Will that Fuentes bad boy streak come out with a vengeance and lure Luis to live on the edge like his new girlfriend and his own father? Continuing all the steamy romance of the first two books, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Simone Elkeles gives fans one more satisfying taste of the irresistible Fuentes boys.

(ARC Review) Hungry For You by Lynsay Sands

HUNGRY FOR YOU
An Argeneau Novel
Source: HarperCollins
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Avon; Original edition (November 30, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061894575
• ISBN-13: 978-0061894572

SUMMARY:

This vampire has been alone for far too long . . . 

As one of the most ancient in the Argeneau clan, Cale Valens has given up on finding a life mate. His friends and family, however, have not. In fact, they believe they've finally found his perfect match. Getting them together, however, requires one little white lie . . . 

Alexandra Willan is in a panic. Her restaurant is due to open in two weeks, but her chef just walked out. Then a highly recommended replacement arrives, an impossibly handsome culinary genius who sends electric tingles racing through her body . . . 

Except he can't cook. In fact, Cale hasn't eaten real food in two thousand years. Yet he's determined to prove to Alex his prowess in the kitchen . . . and elsewhere. Because never has he hungered so for any mortal woman. And not just for a taste of her, but for the whole delicious feast! 

MY THOUGHTS:

I am a HUGE fan of Lynsay Sands. She is an auto buy for me no matter what the story is about.  In the latest installment in the Argeneau series, we are introduced to Cale and Alex. 

We have met Alex in previous books.  She is the sister to Jo and Sam Willan.  While those two have already found their life mates in previous books, I was waiting on pins and needles to see who the author would pair chef and restaurant owner Alex with.  While Cale is no Chef, the author made sure to fit Alex with him as a balance.  Cale is a business man and hasn't cooked in over a thousand years if not more.  When he finds out that Alex is his life mate though, he does try to cook and woo her at the same time.

Alex hires Cale as her project/business manager since she would rather be head chef at her restaurant then handle the paperwork.  Cale is happy to oblige, and Alex finds their growing attraction hard to resist.  When they share some sexy dreams, Alex finds her wall of defense crumbling. 

I must say that after certain scenes in the book, I will never look at a microwave again without laughing out loud!  While I loved the characters of Cale and Alex, my favorite had to be Bricker again for saving the day when Cale found himself messing something up.  Bricker trying to teach Cale how to use a microwave and how to cook was hilarious.  Ms. Sands never fails with the witty and fun writing that also has the sexy romance we crave.  She balances it perfectly and the writing is phenomenal!  While the story ended in a bit of a rush, I still was very satisfied with the book.  The author also explains things to where if this is the first book you pick up and read, everything is explained without having to read the prior books. 

Another fantastic read that quenched my thirst for paranormal romance! Bravo Ms. Sands for another outstanding read in the series.

MY RATING:

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

SNOW BOUND by Larissa Ione

SNOW BOUND
Author: Larissa Ione
Source: Personal Purchase

• Paperback: 225 pages
• Publisher: Samhain Publishing (July 29, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599988232
• ISBN-13: 978-1599988238

SUMMARY:

Passion hot enough to melt the slopesand their hearts. Thanks to a devastating medical diagnosis, ski patroller Sean Trenton has endured two years of celibacy. Two long years that have chipped away at his confidence. Now, with the career opportunity of a lifetime on the line, hes ready to remedy the celibacy situation, and sexy snowbunny Robyn Montgomery is just what the doctor ordered.

Unfortunately, the last thing reliable, intense radio station manager Robyn Montgomery wants in her suddenly turbulent professional and personal life is a thrill-seeking former Olympic skier-even if he is a total hottie. Shes had it with guys who hog the spotlight and leave her in the shadows. So why is it that even an icy blizzard cant temper the combustible heat between them? 

Warning, this title contains the following: explicit sex, graphic language.

MY THOUGHTS:

I have read a lot of hype about this book in the erotica reviews.  When I finally got my hands on a copy of this book, I was excited to jump into the story.

Robyn Montgomery has just come out of a bad relationship with a guy named Damon, who in my honest opinion was a jerk!  He never truly deserved Robyn in the first place and I was glad to see her get rid of him.  Sean is a former Olympic Skier and has now taken up the career of a ski patroller.  When the two of them meet at a ski lodge, the sexual tensions and sparks were instantly a hit.  I loved the two of them together.

The writing was great with few flaws in my opinion.  The story progressed at a great pace for an erotica story.  What was great is how the author incorporated an actual story into a sexually charged read.  Most erotic reads are just sex, sex, and more sex. The author made sure that their was a story between the sheets of this sexy romp.

After finishing this book within hours, I can't wait to check and see what other stories in this genre the author has out.  A great new author to add to my list of sexy and erotic reads!

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

CHRISTMAS ON CONRAD STREET by Marcia Evanick

CHRISTMAS ON CONRAD STREET
Misty Harbor Book #2
Author: Marcia Evanick

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Zebra (October 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0821774247
• ISBN-13: 978-0821774243

SUMMARY:

Welcome to Misty Harbor Maine! Life is a little different here - slower, calmer, a bit less hectic than you may be used to. But don't worry, you'll fit right in. Just pour yourself some eggnog, curl up by the fire and settle in for a long winter's night. Christmas is coming - and there's love in the air...

After she caught her live-in boyfriend in the arms of another woman, Dr. Sydney Fletcher packed up her life, moved to charming Misty Harbor - and quickly made an early New Year's resolution: No more falling in love. Period. But she's barely hung her stocking by the chimney with care when her resolve is sorely tested by the rugged charms of Erik Olsen. The handsome fisherman with the blue eyes is exactly the sort of entanglement Sydney has vowed to steer clear of. Still, when he asks her to come around now and then to tend to his ailing grandfather, it seems downright Scroogish to say no, especially when Erik promises to repay her kindness with a traditional Norwegian Christmas celebration - a promise sealed with a very merry kiss. Now, with the Christmas Eve Festival of Lights fast approaching, Sydney must decide if she's willing to take a chance and give Erik the most precious gift of all- her heart...

MY THOUGHTS:

Christmas on Conrad Street is the second book in the Misty Harbor series.  After reading the first book in the series, I was anxious to read about the twin vikings, Erik and Gunnar.  In this book we get two romances for the price of one!


I loved the story between Erik and Sydney.  They were a perfect match for each other and I felt the chemistry between the two as soon as the met.  Their romance was sweet and caring.  I also loved how the author made sure to include the characters from the previous book and the characters from books to come in this series.  The writing was fun and the scene setups were cute. I actually felt like I was in Misty Harbor for Christmas.


The only drawback I had with this book is the story of Gunnar and Maggie. I felt that their romance was forced and we didn't get to see their relationship blossom like we did with Erik and Sydney.  I feel the author should have left their romance for another book in the series instead of trying to incorporate it into this one. 


Overall a quick and cute Christmas read for the holiday season.  Even though this is the second book in the series, the author does a wonderful job of letting the reader have this as a stand alone book.  Everything, including the characters relationships, are explained without the over abundance of details. 


MY RATING:

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

Guest Posting!

Today I am guest posting over at Star Shadow's blog!  Stop by and say hi!

Book Promo: Night Star by Alyson Noel

 Available November 16th from St. Martin's Press is Alyson Noël's latest release in her widely loved 'Immortals' series, 'Night Star'.

Immortals Series Website:

ttp://www.ImmortalsSeries.com

Immortals Series Facebook Fan Page:

http://www.facebook.com/ImmortalsSeries?v=app_6009294086

Catch of the Day by Marcia Evanick

CATCH OF THE DAY
Misty Harbor Book 1
Author: Marcia Evanick

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Zebra (February 2, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0821772414
• ISBN-13: 978-0821772416

SUMMARY:

Misty Harbor, Maine, is awash in eligible bachelors - and as the only single gal in town, newcomer Gwen Fletcher is surrounded by potential suitors. The trouble is, she's got a restaurant to renovate, and the carpenter she's hired seems bent on avoiding her. What Gwen needs to do is convince wary Daniel Creighton she's not here to land a husband - and that it's high time he stopped pining after the one that got away...

Jilted Daniel's aversion to romance makes him the lone local guy who isn't after gorgeous Gwen. Still, lured by her renovation project, he can't resist lending a hand when she gets in over her head with a couple of overzealous admirers. Next thing he knows, small-town gossip has the two of them destined to sail off into the sunset together - and it dawns on Daniel that he's fallen for Gwen -- hook, line and sinker...

MY THOUGHTS:

If you are in the mood for a cozy contemporary romance, then author Marcia Evanick has created a great series to feed your brain!


When Gwen Fletcher decides to move to Misty Harbor to fulfill her dream of opening her own restaurant, she didn't realize she would be finding a town in short supply of single women.  She quickly finds out that not only does she have a chance of creating a wonderful restaurant for people to dine at, but she also has become the talk of the town with the single men that are overflowing the town.  With every single man in town trying to win her affections, she has a hard time trying to get her business up and running. 


When Gwen hires single man Daniel Creighton, the attraction that builds between the two is inevitable.  Daniel though does not want to start a relationship.  He has a job to do and that is what he plans on doing.  


This was basically a predictable romance that you know with every page how it is going to turn out.  The author also likes to weave other stories into the book to set it up for more books in the series.  This made it hard to fully enjoy the romance of Gwen and Daniel.  Once you start getting towards the last half of the book though, you realize that all the stories she has weaved together also fit together as one.  


I enjoyed the book, I just wished we could have had more romance between Gwen and Daniel instead of the rush to get them together as a couple.  Predictability and rushed plot made this book not as appealing as it should have been.  I still want to read the next book in the series though just so I can see how the author plans to expand the stories of the other side characters. 


A good book for a rainy day to keep your craving for sweet romances going, but not one you should expect any surprise endings for. 


MY RATING:

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

WOW: Waiting on Wed!

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Just when he thought things couldn’t get any worse...

Nick Gautier’s day just keeps getting better and better. Yeah, he survived the zombie attacks, only to wake up and find himself enslaved to a world of shapeshifters and demons out to claim his soul.

His new principal thinks he’s even more of a hoodlum than the last one, his coach is trying to recruit him to things he can’t even mention and the girl he’s not seeing, but is, has secrets that terrify him.

But more than that, he’s being groomed by the darkest of powers and if he doesn’t learn how to raise the dead by the end of the week, he will become one of them... 

Waiting on Wed is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

WINNERS!!!!

The contest for Dating Mr. December has now ended.  Using Random.org, the 2 winners are:

Maureen

and

Cindy 

I am emailing you both now and will need to hear back from you within 48 hours with your mailing address or a new winner will be picked. 

Thank you to all who entered and spread the word!

 

COVER ALERT!! Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward

Payne and Manny's book

Lover Unleashed, book #9 in J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series will be released March 29th.

SUMMARY:

Payne, twin sister of Vishous, is cut from the same dark, seductive cloth as her brother. Imprisoned for eons by their mother, the Scribe Virgin, she finally frees herself-only to face a devastating injury. Manuel Manello, M.D., is drafted by the Brotherhood to save her as only he can-but when the human surgeon and the vampire warrior meet, their two worlds collide in the face of their undeniable passion. With so much working against them, can love prove stronger than the birthright and the biology that separates them? 

MY THOUGHTS:

What can I say? Another awesome cover for this series!  I am a HUGE fan of this author and I am squealing with joy at this cover and summary! I want March to hurry and get here!!! 

I need YOUR help!

 

I went to put some books away in my home library and realized that not only am I running out of room, but I am also needing a new system.

For awhile I have been alphabetizing the books by authors last name.  This worked for awhile, but I got tired of having to move shelves down here and there for more space.  It got to be too much. 

My problem is how to organize my shelves. I have A TON of books.  The books I have read and decided to keep are mixed in with the books I have not read yet.  I like the look Kristi from The Story Siren has.  Where all the books are grouped together by color.

My question for you is this:

How do you have your shelves organized? By series? By Author or color? Do you keep your books that need to be read separate from the ones you have read? What do you do if you have read part of a series and not the rest?

Come on people I need your help!!!  Help me organize!

SHADOW OF THE VAMPIRE by Meagan Hatfield

SHADOW OF THE VAMPIRE
Author: Meagan Hatfield

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: HQN Books (July 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0373775008
• ISBN-13: 978-0373775002

SUMMARY:



Even vampires should never sleep with the enemy.

Vampire princess Alexia Feodorovna has been undead for 125 years, so it's been a while since any man has made her pulse race. Until Declan Black. One look at his bronzed body and a fire like no other consumes her. Then she discovers that he's a dragon lord come to take revenge on the vamps who killed his parents. And claim a crystal said to imbue its owner with incredible powers.

Alexia is ordered to torture and kill the dragon lord. Yet with each reckless encounter, she finds herself consumed by his fiery passion. A passion Declan battles, as well. Will he be able to resist the fire of lust she kindles within him and keep revenge in his heart? Or will he risk everything to quench the burning desire and claim the vampire as his own?

MY THOUGHTS:

Vampires and Dragons, oh my! Two types of paranormal creatures that are always hot and sexy! The cover is what attracted my attention to this book though.  The pose and lighting were sensual and breathtaking! It screamed for me to give it a try. After reading the summary as well, I knew I had to give it a try.


This book had promise from the first chapter.  I was intrigued and curious to see the struggle between Vampires and Dragons.  In this book they are enemies and both searching for a crystal that will either destroy the races or control them.  With Alexia on the verge of becoming Queen of the Vampires, she is in a race to find it before Declan, King of the Dragons, has a chance to find it.  With a Queen who is being brainwashed, a vampire daughter who is falling in love with the King of Dragons, the Queens fiancee who is evil and a bunch of side characters who can hold their own, you slowly become invested in reading the entire book.


I did however, have some disappointments with the story.  For one, there is a part of the story that focus' on rape.  I didn't like this part of the book even though I understand the need for it in the story.  To me, it wasn't executed well, and Alexia didn't portray what you would expect with rape.  I also felt the book dragging in a lot of the chapters.  I wanted it to pick up the pace and get moving again.  At times, the story was a bit repetitive and could have been cut out of the book without any damage to the story.


I did however, like the writers writing style.  She has great talent in writing in this genre if she could just cut some things out of the stories to where the readers don't feel like they have read the same thing twice within a few chapters.


Overall, I liked the story, but I didn't love the story either.  I am looking forward to reading about the other characters in the book in the future, yet not as excited as I should be.


MY RATING:

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

WINNER!!!

Using Random.org, the winner of the book Ten Ways To Be Adored When Landing A Lord by Sarah MacLean is:

Emily

Congrats!!! I will be contacting you shortly for your mailing address!  You will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be picked! Thank you again to HarperCollins/Avon for the copy of the book!

*please note: I am running behind on mailing out prize packages. We have been VERY busy with the holidays approaching! For some reason 3 children in 3 different schools has been sucking up my time! I will be mailing out these books by end of week though! Any questions just email me!* 

iDrakula by Bekka Black

Title: iDrakula
Author: Bekka Black

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire (October 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402244657
• ISBN-13: 978-1402244650

SUMMARY:

The classic vampire story that started it all gets new life for a generation of connected teens

18-year-old Jonathan Harker is diagnosed with a rare blood disorder after visiting a Romanian Count. His girlfriend Mina and a pre-med student named Van Helsing team up to investigate the source of the disease. The teenagers discover a horrifying truth: the Count is a vampire. The harrowing events unfold through emails, text messages, web pages, Twitter feeds, and instant messaging-the natural modernization of Bram Stoker's original Dracula, which was written in letters, diary entries, and news clippings.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is a book that can easily be finished within a few hours, if not less.  The concept peaked my interest since it is geared towards the technology that teens and adults are all addicted to now.  I was curious to see how the author was going to take a well known story and adapt it to this concept.

While the cover was amazing and the summary intriguing, the book lost its connection with the reader with all of the simple text and emails.  We basically get the bones of the story with no real meat attached.  I didn't enjoy the execution of the book and I felt cheated in the story.  Since there was no real story introduced, we didn't get the connection with the characters that you normally get with a story filled with dialogue and description. If the author could have given us some chapters of real story in between the emails and text, then this would have made the story more enjoyable and more plausible.

While the computer age of technology might be intriguing in some plots, with this story I felt that it held the book back from being something more.

MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS