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Monday, July 30, 2007:
Embrace Erin's darkness..."My Immortal" 2007
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Jove (August 28, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0515143480
ISBN-13: 978-0515143485 In the late 18th century, a spoiled, selfish plantation owner struck an unholy bargain with a fallen angel: an eternity of servitude for the gift of immortality. For over two hundred years, Damien du Bourg has held up his end of the bargain—by inspiring lust in everyone around him…
Stumbling upon Damien’s plantation on the outskirts of New Orleans while searching for her missing sister, Marley Turner enters a world of shocking decadence. Drawn to the tortured man at the center of it all, Marley feels a powerful sensuality stirring inside her. For the first time, it’s Damien who can’t resist the lure of a woman. But his past sins aren’t ready to be forgotten—or forgiven…
The year is 1790, and the demons are out to play during Louisiana's hot, sticky summer solstice. One such demon, Rosa Francis is making the rounds of the various plantations to partake in the offerings they have left for her. Her first stop is Rosa de Montana, where she expects to be properly admired and feared by the extravagant offerings of the plantation, only to be greeted by silence, and not the gratitude of those who understand the power she can unleash if she is made angry. Instead she finds the cruel and handsome Damien du Bourg, who gives her great pleasure in exchange for eternal life....
Present-day Louisiana: Marley Turner is looking for her free-spirited sister Lizzie, whose last known whereabouts happens to be Rosa de Montana, and is rather dismayed when when she arrives from Ohio and sees the crumbling mansion where Lizzie had supposedly been staying. Here she runs into sinfully gorgeous Damien du Bourg, who makes her a tad bit uncomfortable and suspicious, but he may be the only person who can help her find her missing sister, so she reluctantly agrees to let him help her while trying to deny her overpowering attraction to the enigmatic man. She knows Damien is keeping secrets from her, possibly dangerous ones, but she's desperate enough to ignore all that if it will help her find Lizzie. Damien discovers that Marley has something he wants, a letter about someone from his past, and he has agreed to help her find her sister in exchange. Damien arranges to throw one of his infamous sex parties in the hopes Lizzie will show up and put Marley's fears to rest, and in turn will give him what he wants. Damien is intrigued by the saintly yet lushly sexy Marley, especially since she's able to resist his overwhelming sexual pull, a fringe benefit to the immortality he eagerly demanded centuries ago. Part of Damien's curse is that he must service women sexually, and he has done so faithfully yet wearily for years, but now he faces a woman who truly attracts him, yet manages to avoid his seductive charms. The more he gets to know this virtuous woman, the more he wants to be with her, until he finds himself wishing for a future he knows he can never have: of happiness with the one woman he loves beyond eternity. Damien du Bourg has been given a curse he gladly asked for, not realizing until it was too late just how cruel a pact with a demon truly is, and Damien has done things, horrible things for which he knows he can never be forgiven, so wishing for happiness is just a foolish wish. I was damn lucky to win an ARC for "My Immortal", and it was pure reading pleasure. Erin McCarthy has strayed from her usual lighter, humorously hot stories to bring us a darkly sensual tale filled with lust, redemption and the overwhelming power of love. The setting is the earthly and humid location of New Orleans, Louisiana, which invokes a multitude of images saturated with the spicy and flavorful naughtiness and decadence of the bayou. It comes across as the perfect playground for a regretful demon to live out his eternal life while he pays homage to those he answers to, albeit reluctantly. It's also the right setting for Marley to transform from a shy, introverted wallflower into a confident, brave, alluring woman who demands more out of life than to just merely exist. While searching for her sister, Marley learns some things about herself and about what she cannot control, no matter how much she tries, and while it's a bittersweet lesson, it's one she needed to learn in order to go on with her life. This book haunted me long after I read it and couldn't stop thinking about what it must be like to live with such a curse. The story was rather dark, and the characters really had to go through a lot to earn their HEA. It reminded me how the consequences of our impulsive actions can sometimes cause strong regret when they can't be taken back, ever. Kudos to Erin for delivering an emotional and intense story that made me think, but also made me believe in the strength and courage it takes to face up to what you've done in your own life instead of whining and/or blaming others. This book really resonated with me. I completely fell into the story and couldn't put it down, which just goes to show you what an amazing talent Ms. McCarthy truly is. I anxiously look forward to the next installment: Erin, babe, you have me completely hooked.
Labels: Erin McCarthy, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 7/30/2007 07:01:00 PM
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Friday, July 27, 2007:
This is an older meme, one I avoided the last time around, but my pal MK tagged me, so I thought what the heck, I like to talk about myself, so here ya go: Four jobs I've held: 1. Data Entry Operator 2. Benefit Analyst 3. Member Service Rep 4. Loan Officer Four (or five!)movies I can watch over and over again: 1. "French Kiss" - Meg Ryan/Kevin Kline 2. "Anne of Green Gables/Anne of Avonlea" - Megan Follows 3. "East of Eden" - James Dean/Julie Harris 4. "King Arthur" - Clive Owen 5. "Wedding Singer" -Drew Barrymore/Adam Sandler
Four places I have lived:
1. northern Minnesota 2. Minneapolis, MN 3. NW 'burbs of Chicago, IL 4. still at #3
Four t.v. shows I used to watch (don't watch t.v.):
1. "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" 2. "The X-Files" 3. "Dawson's Creek" (Pacey & Joey) 4. "Friends"
Four places I've been on vacation:
1. Helsinki, Finland 2. Ocho Rios, Jamaica & Grand Cayman Islands (cruise) 3. Atlanta, GA 4. L.A./Anaheim, CA
Four favorite foods:
1. Baja Fresh Americano chicken & steak tacos 2. Filet Mignon 3. calamari 4. Gino's East deep dish pizza
Four websites I visit: (blogs) 1. "Romance: by the Blog" 2. "Let's Gab" 3. "Pixelated Fairy Dust" 4. "The Book Binge"
Four Favorite Authors (tough one!) 1. Suzanne Brockmann 2. Lisa Kleypas 3. JR Ward 4. JD Robb Any big plans for your weekend?
Labels: favorites, me
posted by Stacy~ at 7/27/2007 05:02:00 AM
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Tuesday, July 24, 2007:
The value of online friendship...priceless
Well, as you can imagine, it's been an emotional last several days. Anytime a child is involved, most people can't help but feel strongly affected, even if they didn't know that child personally. I think that was extremely evident with Hannah. She made quite an impact on people, and I know she'll be with me for a long time to come.  It reminded me of how many wonderful friendships I've made online since I first ventured on-line many, many years ago. I may have talked about this before (I don't know, but I have a rather bad memory remembering what I actually blog about), but it seems so strange in a way, though, doesn't it, to connect so strongly with people online? How can you be such good friends with someone (or several someones) you've never even met face to face? Well, first it starts with having something in common, that's how. Then you realize that you think the same way, or laugh at the same jokes, or like the same movies, or think Clive Owen is totally hot, or that Justin Timberlake is NOT. Just like any other friendships, you get to know someone and you sometimes end up liking them more and more as time goes by, and before you know it, you might be sending them personal emails, or calling each other on the phone, or rooming together at RWA, to give you some examples. Most of my online friendships have developed because of my strong love of romances. In RL, absolutely none of my friends read them. Oh, they read Stephen King or Pearl S. Buck or Jodi Picoult or even J.K. Rowling, but not Suzanne Brockmann or Lisa Kleypas or Lori Foster, and certainly not Lacey Alexander! Yet I love these authors so passionately, and to find others who share that same feeling is incredible, and so much fun. There's nothing like talking about a subject you endlessly love with others who feel the exact same way. Lucky for me, I've gotten the chance to meet some of these friends in person, and hang out with them for a weekend or longer. We've drank together, played practical jokes, attempted to line dance, hung out with favorite authors, or discussed our favorite Black Dagger Brother (Zsadist...or Vischous?). We reminisce, and share our secrets, and recently, we've grieved together. Online friendships are unique, but no less powerful because deep-down, we can relate to what other people are going through. I think about the day Princess Diana died, almost 10 years ago, and the effect it had on me. I remember waking up early to watch the memorial service, and I was crying right along with those on t.v. who were there, watching as her casket went past. In those moments, it was like the world connected. So make fun, or scoff, or whatever. I'm here to say that on-line friendships mean something significant, whether you believe it or not. I may never personally meet some of the people I blog with, but to me, they are still friends of mine, some of whom I've known for years, and they still put up with my moods...with the added bonus that they can walk away from the computer at any time *g* So I'm sending out some love to my online peeps: thanx for stopping by, for sometimes commenting, for rolling your eyes in silence, for listening to me drone on and on and still coming back for more. Thanx for listening to me gush about cover models, or martinis, or my "late to the Harry Potter" party monologues. I 'ppreciate the friendship...and for not wincing too much at my perm LOL. You all rock! Labels: friendship, influences, online friends
posted by Stacy~ at 7/24/2007 06:56:00 PM
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Monday, July 23, 2007:
Today was Hannah's memorial service. As you can probably imagine, I thought about her a lot throughout the day today, and said extra prayers for her mom and dad and baby sister. For a little girl that I had never met, she made quite an impression on me; I couldn't help but smile and laugh when I saw her through her mother's eyes. Rach made a special request that we all wear our sparkly tiaras and flowing dresses and festive jewelry in honor of her special angel, and a lot of us did. I actually have a tiara at work, a pink one with feathers and gaudy glitter, but it's so festive and fun that although I couldn't wear it during the day, it never left my desk. I also had my toes on display in her honor, wearing my sparkly pink nail polish. I think Hannah would have thought it was pretty.  One of the things I love about their family is how they take such pleasure in God's gifts in nature, and share their wonder with their friends and family. There is a pond on campus where I work, and every spring, two swans are brought in to raise their little family. To keep the swans from being lonely, there are also numerous ducks and other birds that love to swim out on the water and take naps in the afternoon sunlight. I was able to take a walk along the pond today, and I took the time to watch the ducklings trail behind their mama, dunking their beaks and flapping their feathers. As I should there, taking it all in, I could easily picture Hannah bending down and patting ther fuzzy little heads and giving them reassuring advice, like any big sister would. I know she will be watching over her sister Lily as she grows up and discovers these wonders herself, and she'll be laying her head on her dad's shoulder to let him know she's there with him, always. I also know that when Rach is crying, Hannah will somehow share with her mom a remembered moment of joy, or laughter, and love. And, thanks to Hannah, I know that I can be proud to let my inner diva shine. Hugs and kisses, little Monkey. You will always make the world a brighter place. Labels: Hannah, love, remembering
posted by Stacy~ at 7/23/2007 06:00:00 PM
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Saturday, July 21, 2007:
Those of you who blog understand how close you can become to an on-line friend, even one you've never met face to face. Sometimes yo meet people you connect with in a way that you never expected, and you've made friends with people who share similar interests and ideas. They become true friends, ones who support you and laugh with you and stand by you. One of those people is Rachd, who loves to share stories about her kids, Hannah, her Monkey, and Lily, her Lil Bit. Yesterday morning I got an email from a mutual friend about Rach: she had been at the beach with her two young daughters, when five-year-old Hannah, was caught in a riptide and drowned. Oh my God I cried. The news hit me so hard, though I had never met Rach in person, because she is a Bella, one of our sisters, and she has shared stories and moments with her children from day one, so I felt like I was a part of her life. The greatest joy in her life was her family, her beautiful children, and I loved hearing her talk about them and what those little ones had been up to to make Rach smile. Not being a mom, I cannot begin to imagine what Rach is going through, but I know she has been an inspiration to me through this difficult time, and I truly thank her for sharing her beautiful daughter's spirit and joy with us. If you'd like to personally offer condolences to Rach, she's been posting pictures and memories of her Monkey at her own blog. Normally I wouldn't post this private information, but I know Rach is okay with it, and has been taking some comfort in celebrating Hannah's life with others. She's an amazing person and an incredible inspiration. Turns out Hannah adored lilies, and other flowers, and this picture is a small tribute to an incredible little girl. Rach and her husband Brien have decided to donate Hannah's organs. As a donor myself, I hope you all consider doing the same, and sharing this decision with your loved ones. If you're not sure, please go here for more information. Rach, my dear friend, I am so, so sorry for your loss. Labels: friendship, organ donation, tragedy
posted by Stacy~ at 7/21/2007 05:42:00 PM
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Thursday, July 19, 2007:
Over the next few days I think anyone who is breathing and conscious will no doubt be bombarded with blogs and articles and interviews and news programs about one of the most visible literary production ever to be produced: the Harry Potter series. So far, the first 6 books have sold about 325 million copies in 64 languages - that is just mindboggling. Yet for a reader, it is a magical thing to have a book/series make such an impact on people. The thought that this story has gotten people, who might not ordinarily pick up a book, to not only read the first one but all the sequels as well is just simply amazing. Definitely a very good thing. I was just reading an article myself about J. K. Rowling and her feelings about writing the 7th and final book in her Harry Potter series, and how she felt that writing those final words was "like a bereavement". And though I've only recently jumped on the bandwagon, I couldn't help but feel quite a bit sad about the whole thing, which surprised me. I mean, I'd avoided it for years, not intentionally since I've had 4 of the books for quite some time - 2 or 3 years I think - yet never read a single one until last weekend, after seeing all 5 movies. To know it's going to end in just a few short days makes me feel kinda...empty. It's the end of an era, one in which we'll probably never see again. Just what was it about these books that created such a sensation around the world? After reading the first book, which I liked a lot, I had to wonder when the fervor started: was it after book one, or was it later? How did this particular book - about an ordinary boy who turned out to be a wizard - capture millions of fans? Doesn't it make you wonder how such a thing can happen? To be honest, Harry Potter was not particularly ground-breaking; in fact the series dealt with many issues that all of us go through at one time or another - not fitting in, death, crushes, making mistakes, jealousy, feeling unwanted, doing the right thing - and maybe it's those very elements that resonated so strongly with fans that it just snowballed into the phenomenon it is today. All I know is that come Saturday, I will feel a bit melancholy knowing that Harry Potter's adventures will be coming to an end, and where it leads is anyone's guess. (I'm pretty much convinced that I'll find out the spoilers - whether I want to or not - long before I get my hands on that 7th book). It also makes me wonder what, if anything, will once again have the world all abuzz like these books. Some things are universal, and obviously Harry Potter spoke to millions and has made a lasting impression that can't be ignored. I think it will be impossible to ever replace the impact this series had on the world. So while I get that all good things must come to an end - that's part of what makes them so great - it still leaves me feeling a little brokenhearted. No matter what though, Harry Potter will live on in our hearts long after that last book is read. Labels: Harry Potter, influences
posted by Stacy~ at 7/19/2007 09:27:00 PM
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Tuesday, July 17, 2007:
Have you ever had a recurring dream? Maybe not one that's exactly the same all the time, but one that has a common theme, like you're flying, or you're naked, or you're being chased? Those seem to be pretty common dreams, from what I've read, and the only one I remember having is one where I was flying - not in a plane or a car, but just on my own power. Pretty cool dream, and I've always wanted to fly :)
Yet the only kind of dream I've ever had on any regular basis is one about planes crashing. This has been on-going since way before 9/11, actually back to when I first started working for an airline about 10 years prior. Some of the dreams were tragic, while others were more magical and some even rather strange. I once dreamt I was on a huge plane that crashed into the water but instead of it ending it everyone's death, the plane floated, like a gigantic innertube. It was rather wild, and reminded me a bit of the movie "The Abyss". In other dreams, the planes (jumbo jets) do amazing things that they can't do in real life, like twirl and dive and all kinds of crazy stuff like something out of a cartoon. It's like something out of a science fiction movie with a bit of magic thrown in. Not being one to read too much into them because there's never a definitive answer to these kinds of things, nevertheless I've been curious to learn what they could mean, andso this is what these types of dream(s) mean, according to Dream Moods : Airplane Crash: To dream that a plane crashes, suggests that you have set overly high and unrealistic goals for yourself. Your goals may be too high and are impossible to realize. You are in danger of having it come crashing down. Alternatively, your lack of confidence, self-defeating attitude and self-doubt toward the goals you have set for yourself is represented by the crashing airplane; you do not believe in your ability to attain those goals. Loss of power and uncertainty in achieving your goals are also signified. Well. Now that's rather "smack me upside the head, stop feeling sorry for yourself" logic, isn't it? I'm trying to think of what kind(s) of goals I've set myself up for that would make me have dreams like this, and I can't really think of anything that sticks out. Could I have goals I don't even realize I'm trying to achieve? I find that rather funny because I am the least ambitious person I know, so I can't imagine what I've set myself out to accomplish. Do you have recurring dreams? Do you believe in dream interpretations? What's the strangest dream you've ever had?
Labels: dreams, interpretation
posted by Stacy~ at 7/17/2007 05:28:00 AM
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Monday, July 16, 2007:
Let's take care of our troops
Read this news story this morning and felt it bears repeating: Sunday, July 15, 2007WASHINGTON - "The Dave Matthews Band is urging fans to push Congress to do more to ensure that U.S. troops coming home traumatized by combat get the help they need.
A petition on the band's Web site has 23,000 signatures so far, singer Dave Matthews said in an interview aired Sunday on ABC's "This Week."
The Pentagon and Congress are reviewing possible changes to the military's much-criticized mental health system. A task force last month found that more than one-third of troops and veterans suffer from problems such as traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, and it urged stronger leadership, more money and greater focus on prevention and screening.
"It just struck me as a profound injustice that someone who had given so much of themselves and clearly showed such a quality of personality that the gratitude we're showing them was basically a dishonorable discharge," Matthews said.
The petition asks Congress to investigate reports that some troops' service-related mental health problems have been misdiagnosed by the military as pre-existing personality disorders.
The effort is nonpartisan, the Grammy-winning musician said. "It's only about how we treat people who have given their, essentially, their lives, put their lives in the hands of our country." " Reading about some of the horrific injuries and conditions these men and women suffer as a result of serving in the military in hostile and violent situations sometimes makes me lose sleep at night. I think about how there I am, lying (laying?) safe in my bed, the only sounds outside being the traffic (I live close to a busy street) and the occasional airliner flying overhead, and there are thousands of soldiers who are making sure I can continue to do just that for as long as I possibly can, hopefully the rest of my life. It bothers me...no, it angers me how these incredible people, my heroes, are treated as an afterthought in many ways. Some lose jobs, their families break up, the don't have a lot of money or insurance or support. Some may lose their eyesight, a limb, or worse, and yet our country, the very one they defend, turns its back on these individuals in many ways. It's an injustice that they can't get proper medical care. I hope you all will sign this petition and show your support. While most of us don't believe in war and violence, there's no question that those who do defend us are doing so with honor, with courage, with dignity, and should be treated with such in return. No matter what one's personal views are on the subject, we are all human beings and deserve a chance at a better life, and better healthcare. Labels: healthcare, troops
posted by Stacy~ at 7/16/2007 05:25:00 AM
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Sunday, July 15, 2007:
Oh wow, there is life away from the computer LOL. True, I haven't felt much like surfing lately, but that doesn't mean I don't miss my online friends, cuz I do. It's just nice to have a little break and actually hang out with friends in RL, going out, drinking (but not driving), gossiping, enjoying the gorgeous weather. It's been wonderful :) I saw "Harry Potter 5" on Thursday with my friend B and her twelve-year-old son and we had a great time. It was nice to see it right away, but not to have to be in an overcrowded theatre. It was perfect. As for the movie, many of you who've read the books and/or seen the movies, it's a darker version, angrier, and more uncertain. I liked it a lot, but was disappointed we didn't see quite as much of Ron and Hermione cuz I want those two to get together, and bloody hell, I have my little crush on Ron. And isn't there just something smarmily sexy about Snape? Hey, I know I'm not the only one here. Afterwards, I headed over to Border's and bought the 6 books in paperback - I had a gift card otherwise I probably would have only gotten 2 books. Anyway, I wanted to delve more into the story, because obviously there's a lot they can't include in the movies. Better late than never, right? In other news, today is my 16th anniversary with my company. Almost 4 years ago we went through a transition and changed our name, but those of us who worked there during that time got to retain our seniority, so that means next year I will get 5 weeks of vacation - woo hoo! But I keep thinking ahead, because people don't stay with companies for 40 years anymore, so I'm always trying to consider my options - you just never know what could happen. The only sure thing, it seems, is that in my company, no one is indispensable. It's good to remember that because then there are no rude awakenings. That being said, I love my job, and the people I work with. A year ago, I was having a meltdown because I wasn't where I wanted to be, but in October I got to go back to my favorite office, and I am grateful and thrilled that it worked out. Some people can put up with being unhappy in their jobs, and I will admit that when I thought it was temporary, so could I, but once I was told it was going to be permanent, my drive and passion for my job waned considerably. Everyday felt like a prison sentence. I think something like that really makes you think about what's important in your career. Do you love what you do? Could you do a job you didn't enjoy just because you got more money? What makes you love what you are doing? Labels: Harry Potter, ramblings
posted by Stacy~ at 7/15/2007 09:11:00 AM
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Wednesday, July 11, 2007:
A minute can make a change....
I saw this over at " Let's Gab", and thought it too important not to share: From a nurse: I'll never forget the look in my patients eyes when I had to tell them they had to go home with the drains, new exercises and no breast. I remember begging the Doctors to keep these women in the hospital longer, only to hear that they would, but their hands were tied by the insurance companies. So there I sat with my patient giving them the instructions they needed to take care of themselves, knowing full well they didn't grasp half of what I was saying, because the glazed, hopeless, frightened look spoke louder than the quiet 'Thank you' they muttered. A mastectomy is when a woman's breast is removed in order to remove cancerous breast cells/tissue. If you know anyone who has had a mastectomy, you may know that there is a lot of discomfort and pain afterward. Insurance companies are trying to make mastectomies an outpatient procedure. Let's give women the chance to recover properly in the hospital for 2 days after surgery. Mastectomy Bill in Congress It takes 2 seconds to do this and is very important .. please take the time and do it really quick! Breast Cancer Hospitalization Bill - Important legislation for all women. If there was ever a time when our voices and choices should be heard, this is one of those times. If you're receiving this, it's because I think you will take the 30 seconds to go to vote on this issue and send it on to others you know who will do the same.
There's a bill called the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act which will require insurance companies to cover a minimum 48-hour hospital stay for patients undergoing a mastectomy. It's about eliminating the 'drive-through mastectomy' where women are forced to go home just a few hours after surgery, against the wishes of their doctor, still groggy from anesthesia and sometimes with drainage tubes still attached.
Lifetime Television has put this bill on their Web page with a petition drive to show your support. Last year over half the House signed on. PLEASE!! Sign the petition by clicking on the Web site below. You need not give more than your name and zip code number. We owe it to ourselves to sign this petition and stop insurance companies from treating patients like nuisances and instead think of them as human beings whose bodies have been through traumatic stress and need the time and care to recover. Let your voice be heard and show these huge companies that we are not going to put up with it - we deserve much, much better. Labels: making a difference
posted by Stacy~ at 7/11/2007 05:56:00 AM
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Tuesday, July 10, 2007:
Because I am never up with the latest in technology or trend or whatnot (I just got an ipod last December and I've only been reading ebooks for about 2 years), it should come as no surprise that I just recently (like within the last week) joined Netflix. I hate due dates, completely despise anything with a time limit, so knowing that I won't be charged late fees is music to my ears.
Yet my queue only has about 10 movies in it, and some of them I've already seen:
- Pride & Prejudice (Kiera Knightly version - seen it)
- Ladyhawke (seen it but MaryKate has got me all nostalgic)
- Monkey Love (cuz I have this weird thing for Jeremy Renner from S.W.A.T.)
- S.W.A.T. (see above)
- The Devil Wears Prada (Meryl Streep? Eh. The fashionable clothes? Hardly. Just cuz.)
I've already seen "Music & Lyrics" (my first Netflix...flick) and now I can't get that damn "Pop Goes My Heart" song out of my head. It was cute, not cutesy, meaning Hugh and Drew weren't all googly over each other, which made it a refreshing film. And I've seen "The Shooter", "Blood Diamond", and "The Departed", all of which I loved. But I'm looking for something(s) off the beaten path, something different, thought not necessarily strange and bizarre. Just a few selections that maybe aren't as mainstream or didn't make much of a splash when they were released in theatres. I love all kinds of movies, from romance to action/adventure to classics, so give me your best shot here and share some all-time faves from now or yesteryear. I can't wait to see what you come up with :) Labels: movies
posted by Stacy~ at 7/10/2007 10:55:00 PM
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Monday, July 09, 2007:
"The Object of Love" by Sharon Cullars
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Brava (May 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0758213719
ISBN-13: 978-0758213716 In Sharon Cullars' dazzling new novel, two unlikely lovers give in to explosive desire. But guilt and long-buried secrets could destroy their future before it begins...
It's been five years since Lacey Burnham saw Sean Logan, and in that time her son Calvin's best friend has turned from a surly youth into a handsome, self-assured young man. Crushed with grief over Cal's sudden death, Lacey offers Sean a place to stay while he's in town--an innocent proposal that quickly becomes anything but. Lacey is stunned and confused by the yearning he ignites with a single kiss...
Beautiful, warmhearted Lacey Burnham was a haven of comfort in Sean's troubled youth. Now, against every shred of logic she possesses, Lacey is falling hard for Sean and for a heady carnal bliss she's never experienced before. But the ghosts of the past are waiting. And sooner or later, every shadow must face the light of day...
I've never made it a secret of my love for the Kensington Brava line. It has always been sexy and romantic, yet a bit light on deep, intense stories, which never really bothered me before. So when I first picked up "The Object of Love", I really thought I knew what I'd be getting and yet got something totally different, which was so much more. To categorize this book in a few words is impossible as there are many elements intertwined into it: a paranormal twist, a bi-racial romance, a significant age difference between the hero/heroine, to name only a few. But stir them up all together and you get an unusual yet engaging concoction that is poignant and completely believable.
Lacey Burnham has just experienced the most devastating loss a parent can face - the death of her only child, Calvin, in a car accident. She holds up fairly well at the funeral, but at his gravesite her grief overwhelms her and she collapses, her anguish too strong to fight against. Her family tries to reach her though the fog of pain, but it's her son's former best friend, Sean Logan, someone she hasn't seen in years, who rescues her and helps her to her car. His strength and insistence ground her, allow her to grasp onto her dignity again. Remembering Sean being such a part of their lives, she invites him to stay with her while in town, letting him know that her house is still his second home.
Sean had come back to Oak Park, Illinois to pay his respects to his friend and had originally planned to go back home to Muncie, Indiana in a few days, yet when Mrs. Burnham invites Sean to stay with her while he's in town, he decides to take her up on her offer; there's not much waiting for him back in Muncie, and Sean longs to be close to Lacey again as his long-denied feelings for her rise to the surface.
Though his body is dead and buried, Calvin's spirit lingers behind, stuck in the house where his mother took care of him and provided him with everything he could ever need or want. Seeing the person he used to think of as his best friend in this house again brings back a paralyzing rage that consumes Calvin, and his only thought is to get rid of Sean, one way or another, not realizing at first that the secret he shares with Sean is what is keeping him from acknowledging the truth from long ago, and from finally moving on.
Lacey is grateful to have Sean around, but her gratitude soon turns to desire as she begins to notice him as a man and not the boy who practically grew up in her house alongside her son. Sean is not the typical twenty-two year old; he's gone through much in his few years, and that pain has let to a maturity and understanding not usually found in one so young. Yet Sean is also somewhat lost, without direction, and Lacey is guilty about her attraction to someone young enough to be her son and not much going for him other than his dreams. She tries to push him away, but circumstances keep bringing them together, and she sees that there is so much she doesn't know, not just about Sean, but about her own son. It is her loyalty to Calvin that ultimately gives Lacey the strength to deny her own feelings, but secrets have a way of coming to light, and Lacey must decide what's more important: protecting her son or telling the truth.
I had seen this book in the stores - how could I of all people not be drawn to this cover? - yet I never picked it up with any serious intent of buying it. I had read the book blurb and though I don't mind age differences in my books (or in real life), I'll admit I was rather turned off by the number of years between Lacey and Sean and didn't think I would be able to get past that. Then Karen Scott made mention of it at her blog back in May, saying how she loved it, and since I find her opinions to be fairly straight-forward, and I also read other rave reviews, and that convinced me to buy this book.
I must say I enjoyed this story more than a lot of the ones I've read so far this year. Don't let the beefcake cover fool you - it's definitely one of the most memorable, and I know it will stay with me for quite some time. I'm sure it will become a favorite re-read as well. It was darker, more serious and very touching, and brought tears to my eyes several times, especially towards the end. Lacey was a wonderfully strong and amazingly courageous woman, a true heroine in my eyes. Sean was someone who'd had his share of hard knocks but instead of being resentful and feeling sorry for himself, he wanted bigger and better things and was on his way to making them happen, yet he still had some growing up to do, too, but he seemed to realize this, and was ready to accept the challenge.
And instead of ruining the overall impact of this story with a pat and simple ending, Ms. Cullars has left us with a vague yet hopeful closing where the HEA is not a complete definite, however that makes the story all the more compelling. Sean and Lacey have a lot to get through with each other before their HEA can happen, yet it ends with the possiblity of an eventual union for these two lonely souls who are initially drawn to each other in grief yet discover a passion with each other they've never known before. You can't help but hope they find it together.
Oh, and I definitely plan on reading more of Ms. Cullars' books. She definitely has something to say in her romances.
Labels: reviews, Sharon Cullars
posted by Stacy~ at 7/09/2007 05:54:00 AM
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Saturday, July 07, 2007:
Is it being lucky, or being blessed?
7/7/07
Today is an unusual day, one we won't see again. The number "7" has always been associated with luck, must like a 4-leaf clover or a rabbit's foot (which is really too gruesome to contemplate). So for me, thoughts turned to what it means to be lucky, and at first I was going to post about hard work vs. the art of being lucky, but then I was blog-hopping and came across a post that struck a bit of a nerve. Though the post had nothing to do with being lucky, there was a comment made that got me thinking. In yesterday's post over at the Pink Ladies' blog, author Patricia Sargeant is talking about her five favorite books, and why they are such favorites of hers. She mentions a favorite author of mine, the incomparable Suz Brockmann, and Suz's book "Letters to Kelly" and how it inspired Patricia to start donating to Amnesty International, an organization that works to "protect human rights worldwide". (Most recently UK journalist Alan Johnson, who had been held in captivity for 114 days, was given an award by Amnesty International UK). Many of us live an existence where we are free to do so many things, such as get an education, work for a living, socialize, go to concerts, zip through a drive-through, see our family members, walk on our own two feet, eat until our bellies are full. Some may say that we are lucky, but I believe we are blessed. Being blessed does not mean we don't have moments of suffering, or heartache and sadness. Sometimes those that suffer the worst are the ones that recognize their blessings more easily than those who live a relatively easy life. Those individuals who go through tragedy understand that what they do have in their lives is precious, worth fighting for. And a lot of times those are the people that give back. Over the years, I've donated to numerous charities involving children. I lost an aunt to Multiple Sclerosis and have collected money and walked for MS. I've sent care packages to the troops. All safe, easy tasks that haven't really taken up a lot of my time or money. Then there are those who donate not only money, but their time, their passion to a cause that means a lot to them. It becomes their calling, their purpose. These are the people that give hope, help find answers and cures. Not just the doctors and nurses and caregivers, but the nameless volunteers who live and breathe in the cause(s) they believe in. In addition to AI, Suz is also a strong advocate for the troops and for gay rights. Author Brenda Novak holds an annual auction in her fight against Juvenile Diabetes. Blogger Mailyn is a passionate supporter against cruelty to animals. These are just a few shining examples of people who count their blessings and do their part to educate and inform others about the injustices in the world and violence against the innocent, or shed light on extraordinary, everyday heroes. They do it for no other reason than that they truly believe and wish to make a difference. I could go on and on because if you're a reader of my blog, you know I love to "read" myself talk, but this post isn't about me, so I will now turn it over to you and your thoughts: What cause, charity, or organization do you believe in? Why are you passionate about it/them? What are the blessings in your life?
Labels: blessings, good causes
posted by Stacy~ at 7/07/2007 02:08:00 PM
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Thursday, July 05, 2007:
"King Arthur" a.k.a. why I love Clive Owen
When this movie first came out in theatres (was it 'o3 or 04?) and discovered the divine Clive Owen (and company), I admit to having gone and seen it more than once. More than twice. And I bought the DVD, which I watched yesterday, for the very first time, if you can believe it. I just love me some rugged, heroic men who fight for a cause greater than their own, even if sometimes it is with a bit of reluctance. After all, they may be willing to die for it, but that doesn't mean they are ready to be vanquished so easily.
 As I mentioned, this is where I first "met" the delectable Clive Owen, who does the part of King Arthur justice in a way few ever have. He's not mystical nor magical, but a man who believes in God and a free world where people can live in peace. This is the cause he has chosen to fight for, even if it wasn't his choice to fight to begin with. After 15 grueling years of fighting, his own freedom, and that of his men, is within reach. Except, of course, they have to go on one last mission, and if they succeed, freedom is finally, FINALLY, guaranteed. Yet this is their most dangerous assignment yet, and death is almost a certainty. Arthur is resigned to this last fight, and his men grudgingly follow him, including his closest friend Lancelot, loyal to their leader because at least he has never lied to them. Many of them have never known anything but fighting and killing, and have nothing else to hold onto. The life of a soldier is all they have ever known, or can even remember. While they dream of freedom, they are not quite sure what that looks like. Along the way, they find an imprisoned Guinevere, who is rotting away in an underground prison for her sins - being a Briton who fights against Rome. Arthur is drawn to her, probably never coming across a person as strong in their convictions as hinself. Just as Lancelot is not the pure, heavenly knight of legend, Guinevere is not the pampered maiden surrounded by her adoring followers, but a fighter. We see her fascination with Lancelot because they are so similar, yet it is Arthur who wins her heart.
 I love the Legend of King Arthur, the idea of Merlin, the concept of the Round Table. I've always been fascinated by it, and this very earthy, bloody version does little to detract from that feeling. The promise of it is still the same, and there is the added bonus of all those hot knights: Arthur, Lancelot, Tristan, Gawain, Galahad, even hot-headed, lusty Bors. There are those moments of cheese, when you wonder how the actors could keep a straight face as they recited some of those corny lines, but the actors, especially Clive Owen, don't overplay their roles, and Arthur comes across as a man torn in his beliefs and the loyalty to his own men. I liked the warrior princess and the less-than-saintly Lancelot, who is Arthur's best friend. I enjoyed that Bors had 11 (!) children, that Tristan was a master tracker with the mannerisms of a samurai. I loved Clive's intense hazel eyes. In this movie, he epitomizes the rugged, earthy hero that appeals to me on so many levels. He has the longer, tousled hair, the serious convictions, the sensual mouth, the confidence of a soldier who knows he is magnificent yet not too arrogant to kneel before God. My only regret: no shirtless scene. That just seemed so wrong. Thanx to MaryKate for talking up her movie "LadyHawke", which is another classic I adored, and which inspired this blog post today. 'ppreciate it, MK :) So you you have a favorite medieval movie? What makes it so appealing? Who is your favorite knight? Labels: Clive Owen, King Arthur
posted by Stacy~ at 7/05/2007 06:22:00 AM
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Wednesday, July 04, 2007:
Regretting the impulse buy
I am a bleeding heart reviewer, and try to find the best in any book I read. If it's a new author, I figure it takes awhile to find their nitch. But sometimes you come across a story that just bothers you because you can't buy into it, and I have just read such a book. " Twin Fantasies" by Opal Carew. I debated, and still do, whether I should post on a book I don't like. Writing, to me, is a fantasy, and it takes a lot of hard work and guts to put yourself out there. But then I decided to be honest about it, because some of the reasons I didn't like it were my hot buttons, and I wanted to explain my reaction to the story. Here's the back cover blurb: Mistaken identity has never been so sensuous....Jenna Kerry has a secret. She's always fantasized about sharing her bed with two men, but her fiancé Ryan would never approve. But one night at a posh reception at a luxury hotel, Ryan unexpectedly appears, leads her to his room and shows her the wildest night of her life. The trouble is, he isn't Ryan. When she discovers the truth-that her fiancé has a twin-she reignites a long-standing rivalry. Both men are determined to have her, and they set out to prove their talents in the most erotic ways imaginable. But does she dare ask them to explore her most hidden fantasy... and can she handle all that these hot-blooded twins have to offer? Lock your door and indulge in this wickedly erotic tale from Opal Carew-an irresistible new voice in erotic romance.
Sounds hot and sexy, and exactly like the kind of story I like to read - a woman enjoying two men. The cover of the book is sensuous, with the lower torso of a woman in a red dress with a slit up the side and rose petals resting on her thigh near her knee. Before reading it, I would have thought this was a book that I just had to have. And that's why I bought it. But then I read it.
It starts out promising. Jenna is frustrated because she's at a friend's wedding with her best friend Cindy instead of her boyfriend Ryan. He was working, AGAIN, and so this leads Jenna to wonder if, after more than a year, if her and Ryan were really meant to be together after all. They hadn't even slept together in the last two months. She's confiding to Cindy, thinking that maybe she should break up with him if he cares more about his job than her, when in walks Ryan. Jenna's eyes light up, and when he pretends to be someone named Jake, obviously remembering her fantasy about having sex with a stranger, she realizes that he does care for her, and listens to her when she talks. What ensues is one of the sexiest, wildest nights of Jenna's life. Only thing is, Ryan is not pretending, because it's really Jake, Ryan's twin brother! Jake's thinking he's just met the gorgeous, sensual woman who takes him on a trip to heaven, and he falls instantly in love. But in the spirit of the game, Jenna calls herself by another name and after their passionate night together, tells him good-bye in the morning, believing she will be seeing him again as Ryan. But because it's Jake, not Ryan, he regretfully walks away, believing she just wanted the fantasy for one night. Yet he wants to get to know her better, and memorizes her license plate number.
Well, guess what? Jenna ends up pregnant. And there's no doubt that it's Jake's baby, only Jenna thinks it's Ryan's, and when she tells Ryan, who knows they hadn't had sex for months, he realizes she's slept with someone else, but he decides that's okay and that he'll raise the baby as his own. He asks Jenna to marry him, and she joyfully says yes.
They plan the wedding, yet again Ryan falls back into his pattern of working 23 hours a day and Jenna's left taking care of all the arrangements. In the meantime, Jake has hired a private investigator to locate his mystery woman with the license plate number he remembered, only he feels guilty about opening up the envelope with the results, so he doesn't. Soon it's the rehearsal dinner, and both Jenna's and Ryan's family gather together, meeting for the first time. Ryan is busy talking to family members when it happens. Jake sees Jenna before him, unable to believe his eyes, and unable from planting a passionate kiss on the woman he loves. Jenna, believing it's Ryan, kisses him back with enthusiasm. Then Ryan's/Jake's parents walk up, and wonder why Jake is kissing Ryan's bride-to-be. In that awful moment, they all realize several things: Jenna, thinking she'd been with Ryan the whole time, comes to the conclusion that she unknowingly cheated on Ryan and ended up pregnant with that man's child. Jake realizes that the wildly uninhibited woman he fell in love with is just not some random woman but his brother's fiancee. Ryan realizes that the one night stand Jenna had was with his brother, and that to her, it wasn't a one night stand at all. Now what do they all do? Well, what happens next is that both Ryan and Jake want Jenna, and plot and scheme against each other to be with her. Jake wants time to get to know Jenna and be there to raise his unborn child, hopefully by marrying Jenna and living happily ever after. Ryan decides he isn't going to let Jenna forget about him, the man she originally loved, and does what he can to interrupt her time with Jake. Jenna is confused but her pregnancy hormones are taking over, and all she wants is sex with whichever twin is available. This goes on until they finally reach a conclusion that is apparently satisfactory to them all. Now even with all the convoluted schemes and events, it might have been an okay story. But the tone of the book is very light and "yeah, whatever". La la la. First of all, how does Ryan not tell his girlfriend who becomes his finance that he has a twin brother???? It's not that they are estranged and won't be attending the wedding because they work together a lot and he's definitely going to be at the wedding. To me, that was too contrived to be believable and I didn't like it. Another thing is, Jenna comes across as too stupid to live. For example, when she finds out she's pregnant, her best friend Cindy tells her she should have put extra money towards condoms, to which Jenna replies "I know. I got sloppy. But when you're as regular as I am, it's easy to believe it won't happen." WTF? That comment really bothered me because one of the first things you learn in sex ed class is that the only guaranteed form of birth control is abstinence. Then, when all three learn each other's identities, Ryan doesn't want Jenna to tell Jake that she's pregnant with his child so that Jake will leave and let Ryan raise the child, unbeknownest to Jake it's actually his baby. As time goes by, Jenna is confused by which man to be with but she's so horny she's sneaking into their rooms at night or availing herself to which ever twin is in front of her, which didn't sit too well with me when she's a pregnant woman trying to decide what decision is best for her and her baby. I read the book through to the end, hoping for something that would redeem it in my eyes, yet for the first time ever, I have decided that I am going to return a book back to the store and get my money back. I feel bad and guilty about that and truly do wish the author all the best, but I just can't keep this book. To me, it represents many of the things that give romance a bad name: a silly airhead of a heroine that I could not respect, relate to, or care about; lying, deceptive heroes competing for a woman like she was a prize to be won; irresponsible choices when it comes to sex. Maybe it was supposed to come across as light and fun and sexy, or maybe filled with zany shenanigans that have the reader laughing out loud and cheering for the characters, but instead it left me with a bad feeling about the whole situation. Being a first for me, I feel a bit depressed, so I am going to probably grab a favorite book and settle in for a re-read, taking comfort in what I know to be a good, strong story. Throwing in a Cappuccino Blast and some chocolate I think will help. Brockmann, take me away..... Labels: sad
posted by Stacy~ at 7/04/2007 06:25:00 PM
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Sunday, July 01, 2007:
Speaking of perfect kisses....
Perfect kisses, the kind that make you weak in the knees. Only in this instance I'm talking about the ones you watch in a movie, or read about in a book. You know, the ones that make you feel like they are almost happening to you. I remember watching "Pretty Woman" when it first came out years ago and hearing Julia Roberts' character telling Richard Gere that they could do anything except kiss, because kissing was too personal, too intimate, and being young, I didn't really understand it at the time how a kiss could make a woman feel more vulnerable. It wasn't until a short time later than I understood exactly what that meant. There's just something about kissing someone that is so revealing, so unique, that you feel like you are giving away so much of yourself. Think about all the kisses you've had over the years, and the ones that really stay with you, the ones that make you melt, the ones that were the complete opposite of the icky, slobbery tongue invasions that some guys seem to have, unfortunately, perfected over the years. Kisses in movies and in books can be just as telling if they are done properly. Sometimes they can make your heart sigh, sometimes they fill you with anticipation, and other times they can even turn you on. A kiss in a movie can be more memorable than the most explicit of sex scenes. One of my favorite kisses in the movies is the one between Julia (Drew Barrymore) and Robbie (Adam Sandler) in "The Wedding Singer". Julia's best friend/cousin is asking her about the kind of kiss to expect from Julia and her groom at their upcoming wedding, but Julia has trouble putting it into words, so her cousin says "show me" and has Julia kiss Robbie, who is not Julia's fiance but her friend who's helplessly falling in love with her. Not wanting to turn it into a big deal, he agrees to help her demonstrate. At first they are laughing about it, but soon they both get a little caught up in the kiss, unbeknownst to Julia's cousin, and Julia starts to wonder if maybe Robbie is the one she really has feelings for. The kiss is sweet, yet intense, and definitely a moment of clarity for both Robbie and Julia. I loved this scene.  Another favorite kiss of mine is from my all-time favorite movie, "East of Eden", with James Dean and Julie Harris. Cal (James Dean) is the bad brother, the one who always gets into trouble, yet he's drawn to his brother Aron's perfect fiancee Abra (Julie Harris), who is reluctantly attracted to him as well. As time goes by, Abra gets to see a side of Cal that no one else does, and realizes she knows him better, and connects with him more completely than she does her own fiance, yet she can't help but feel guilty about it. One evening, Abra is paired with Cal at the town carnival, and she talks with him and even flirts with him, and they end up going up on the ferris wheel together. As it stops at the top, letting people off, Cal and Abra share a sweet yet forbidden kiss that leaves them both miserable because of their growing feelings for each other.  One kissing scene that stands out in a book is Zsadist's and Bella's first kiss in "Lover Awakened". Z has never been kissed before, so it kind of freaks him out, but the guy is a fast learner: She didn't wait for an engraved invitation or for him to change his mind. She pressed her lips to his lightly, then hovered over his mouth. When he stayed where he was, she dipped down again and this time stroked at him. His breath sucked in. "Zsadist?"
"Yes," he whispered. "Relax your mouth for me." Careful not to crowd him, she propped herself up on her forearms and got in close again. His lips were shockingly soft except for where the upper one was scarred. To make sure he knew the imperfection didn't matter to her, she deliberately attended to that place, returning there again and again. And then it happened. He kissed her back. It was just the slightest movement of his mouth, but she felt it all the way to her core. When he did it again, she praised him by moaning a little and letting him take the lead. God, he was so tentative, feeling his way across her mouth with the most gentle of brushings. He kissed her sweetly and with care, tasting like apples and male spice. And the contact between them, though light and slow, was enough to have her aching. When she sneaked her tongue out and licked him, he pulled away sharply. "I don't know what I'm doing here." "Yes, you do." She leaned in to keep the connection. "You really do." "But-" She quieted him with her mouth, and it wasn't long before he was back in the game. This time when her tongue stroked over him he opened his lips, and his own met hers, slick and warm. A slow twirl started...and then he was in her mouth, pushing against her, seeking. It gets more explicit after that, but wow, taken in context, that kiss is stunning, and one of the most memorable scenes in the book, imo. What movie and/or book kiss stands out in your mind? What do you think makes a perfect kiss? Labels: favorites, kisses
posted by Stacy~ at 7/01/2007 08:34:00 PM
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