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Monday, March 31, 2008:
"Private Arrangements" by Sherry Thonas (2008) - review
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Bantam (March 25, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0440244315
ISBN-13: 978-0440244318
LOVE HAS DESIGNS OF ITS OWN... To all of London society, Lord and Lady Tremaine had the ideal arrangement: a marriage based on civility, courteousness, freedom—and living on separate continents.
But once upon a time, things were quite different for the Tremaines…When Gigi Rowland first laid eyes on Camden Saybrook, Lord Tremaine, the attraction was immediate and overwhelming: she simply had to have him. But what began in a spark of passion ended in betrayal the morning after their wedding—and Gigi wants to be free to marry again. Now Camden has returned from America with an outrageous demand—an heir—in exchange for Gigi’s freedom.
Gigi’s decision will have consequences she never imagined, as secrets are exposed, desire is rekindled—and one of London’s most admired couples must either fall in love all over again…or let each other go forever.
This book by Sherry Thomas has been gettin' the buzz treatment in romanceland, and like any easily influenced person, I eagerly got my copy, despite the fact I tend to be disappointed by the things most people gush about, but that's another story. Now I've started to prepare myself not to have expectations, and believe me, this is near impossible. I cannot help but get my hopes up over something several people gush over. I want to be part of that "in" crowd, the ones who "get it", because that just ain't me. So going in, I brace myself, though slightly. And it must have worked, because this time around, I loved this story. The book starts out with Camden Saybrook returning home from America, after receiving summons from his wife Gigi that she wants a divorce. (Note: the name Gigi drove me nuts. I saw the movie with Leslie Caron as the main character, and I couldn't help but picture her in my mind while I read this. A bit distracting). A part of him really wants to see that she's been pining for him all these years, yet finds evidence to the contrary, especially considering the reason she wishes to divorce is to marry the man she now loves. Camden has agreed, provided Gigi meet his condition: to give him a heir. There is no love lost between these two, at least not outwardly. Camden is especially cruel to Gigi, blackmailing her in order to get his way, all the while hurtling nasty insults at her in a calm, relaxed manner. Gigi is cut to the quick, but refuses to show it. Her thoughts are with Lord Frederick, a kind, caring man who adores her, and she stands strong, knowing that one day the two of them will finally be together, once her travesty of a marriage has been dissolved. The next passage goes back 11 years, where we meet the young Gigi, a bit of a spoiled, smug young lady who's managed to get herself engaged to a duke, of all things. This passage sets the stage for the first meeting between Cam and Gigi, their ongoing relationship and eventually, their marriage. How it began, and also, how it ended. There were moments throughout the book that I seriously didn't know whether I liked the characters or not. Times when Cam and Gigi could be so mean to each other than I wanted to smack them. But never at any point did I not care about what happened to them, and that is why I think I was about to enjoy this book so much. My feelings were strongly engaged, and I was extremely curious as to how the author was going to redeem them enough to earn their happy ending. Both Cam and Gigi had it in them to be completely selfish and unlikeable, yet instead of making me want to toss the book aside in disgust, it actually made me like it even more. I can't explain it, because really, who wants to read about characters you don't like? But they weren't horrible or unworthy of being cared for. And maybe their misunderstanding could have been cleared up much sooner than 10 years later, but I believe both Cam and Gigi needed this time to grow. While it was extremely common for marriages to occur between people in their teens and early twenties back in the late 1800's, it was more satisfying to me as a reader to have the two resolve everything when they are more mature, more worldly. They both had to learn to trust each other again, to even like each other after so many years of not being able to tolerate the other, and I like watching this happen. Throughout it all, even during those moments of pain and cruelty, never once did Cam or Gigi lose that fascination for each other. No matter how unwanted, they were drawn together by something stronger than their own will. As for the author, I was struck by her writing, by her humor and by her decision to create two people who are not honorable, or very nice to each other, and try to bring them together. I thought she did a fantastic job of convincing me that this was a love story, and that Camden and Gigi deserved their happiness together. With this book I did something I never do, and that is to bring my book to work and read it on my lunch hour. That's how badly I needed to read it. I will definitely be picking up her next book, "Delicious", when it comes out.
Rating: ****1/2 out of ***** Labels: reviews, Sherry Thomas
posted by Stacy~ at 3/31/2008 04:58:00 AM
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Saturday, March 29, 2008:
Sydney, Australia on 3/29/08 What is Earth Hour, you ask? It's a movement that asks everyone to turn off their lights for one hour day, between 8pm to 9pm, in your local time zone as a reminder to conserve energy. It's something everyone can do, something very easy, that doesn't take up much of your time, yet might just make a world of difference. What's not to like? While I know it's difficult to ask readers to sit in the dark for one hour, I'm sure those creative imaginations can think of other things to do while you save energy: Take a nap Share a conversation with someone in the dark Pray Count the stars hold a candlelight dinner tell ghost stories get romantic (I'll leave that up to your interpretation)
What are YOU going to do during Earth Hour? Labels: Earth Hour
posted by Stacy~ at 3/29/2008 11:09:00 AM
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Friday, March 28, 2008:
It's getting harder for books to satisfy me. I have a feeling, talking with other readers and sharing ideas, that I am not alone in this. Part of it, a large part, is that the blush is off the rose. It's pretty much all been done, with few exceptions, so it's harder to find something to dazzle me as a reader. Yet I am still willing to be proven wrong, and have hopes that it can happen. (In fact I'm reading a book now that I am totally into, and no, it's not "The Blue-Eyed Devil", but I expect to be swept off my feet by this one over the weekend). As I was fondly thinking back on the those early days of reading romance, those books I had discovered after reading the young adult romances that were more geared towards girls my age (around 12 at the time), I tried to remember the authors that I couldn't get enough of back then. Those were such idyllic times, loving the books so passionately, and re-reading my absolute favorite ones. Here are three authors that had a defining role in shaping my romance tastes, and one of the books that stood out prominently in my mind. A well-born Boston beauty, Corinne Barrows has traveled halfway around the world in search of Jared Burkett -- a dashing rogue and a devil; a honey-tongued charmer who seduced and despoiled her. . .and then abandoned the impetuous lady after awakening a need that only he could satisfy.
She has found him on the lush and lovely island of Hawaii. And now Corinne will have the revenge she craves: the total ruin of the blackguard who brought shame and scandal into her life. But Jared still possesses the power to excite her as no man has ever done--even as his own reckless heart is taken captive in their blistering war of wits and will--igniting a fire that could consume them both unless they surrender to it with wild abandon in the heat of the tropic night.
If I read it today, the violence between the hero and heroine, not to mention how spoiled the heroine was and the abusiveness of the hero would certainly disgust me. Yet it was my first ever JL, and one of my first romances, and I read it many, many times back in the '80's. Was it wrong of me to love this story? I don't know, but I did. I haven't read it in many years, but it's one of the books that stays with me when I think back on my first romances. Later I came across the Malorys, starting with "Love Only Once", adoring them instantly, and falling head over heels in love with Anthony (Tender Rebel). I am more the blue-collar type of girl, and probably should have gone for James, but debonair and charming Anthony swept me off my feet. That's how I like to remember JL's books. Another favorite back then was Jude Deveraux. I was especially intrigued by her because she introduced me to series romance, most notably the Taggarts and the Montgomerys. She came to him as a precious gift, a naked angel rolled in a rug. Once he gazed into her green eyes, saw her tangle of honey blonde hair, he was undone with passion.Elizabeth would never surrender. He was a hated Montgomery -- she was a Chatworth -- and the blood war between their families raged on, a wildfire of rape, murder, and betrayal.Elizabeth vowed to fight the handsome lord, to resist the burning desire in his eyes -- no matter how great the temptation.
I couldn't wait for another installment by Ms. Deveraux, who introduced me to quite a few firsts - a heavier heroine (Wishes), the younger man/older woman romance (The Invitation), and even a bit of the paranormal (A Knight in Shining Armor). Though I also haven't read her books in years, she influenced me a lot back then, and even made me do something I didn't do a lot of back then when I was reading, and that was to cry (Remembrance). JD was a definite impact on my reading, and I loved how her Taggarts and Montgomerys intertwined. Good times. Amanda Rose was an English beauty determined to escape the loveless marriage imposed on her by her cruel stepbrother. She never dreamed a mysterious rogue from the New World would enter her life. Amanda's promise not to betray Matt Grayson, a wounded fugitive, was soon replaced by a deeper vow. Now a cruel twist of fate threw them together as enemies, instead of lovers. Karen Robards also had a huge impact on me during those teenage years. She was another author who had written some significant firsts for me: teacher and student (One Summer), forbidden love (Forbidden Love), and interracial love "Desire In the Sun". Her stories were unforgettable, passionately intense, and wildly romantic. Though I stopped reading her books, I still remember how much I enjoyed her stories, and wish I could recapture that feeling again.
As I've mentioned, I don't read books by any of these authors anymore, as my reading style has changed and evolved, and a greater number of authors has had me selecting my books with more care. Back in the 80's and 90's, I had no clue what a tbr pile was because I didn't have one. Now I have a mountain range, so when I chose an author to read, I select those that still engage my senses, as well as several new ones that have caught my attention. It's hit or miss, much like anything else that requires an opinion, but unless I could read much faster, I wouldn't have it any other way. Which authors helped shape your reading habits? Do you still read their books today? If not, why do you think that is? Labels: Johanna Lindsey, Jude Deveraux, Karen Robards
posted by Stacy~ at 3/28/2008 05:34:00 AM
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Thursday, March 27, 2008:
"Every Night I'm Yours" by Christie Kelley (2008)
A WOMAN YEARNING FOR A TASTE OF THE FORBIDDEN… At twenty-six, aspiring novelist Avis Copley intends to wear spinsterhood as a badge of honor. But when she discovers a volume of erotica that ignites a searing fire within her, Avis realizes just how much she doesn’t know about the actual pleasures of the flesh. Determined to learn more, she devises a daring plan…
A MAN READY TO TEACH HER MUCH, MUCH MORE… Avis chooses Emory Billingsworth, a fellow novelist-not to mention a beautiful specimen of manhood-to instruct her in carnal pleasure. But when the brash earl of Selby, Banning Talbot, a man she has known for years, unearths Avis’ true intentions, he claims she’s made a dangerously bad choice. Volunteering his services for one wicked night of reckless, abandoned passion, Banning promises he will satisfy all of her deepest longings. Yet Banning cannot begin to imagine the effect his willful, voluptuous, and very eager student will have on him-or how far an innocent lesson in desire can go… I saw this recommended on Romance Bandits, and though the plot's been done many times before, I was in the mood for a book about the inexperienced yet independent heroine looking for lessons in pleasure, and is tempted into sin by the one man who drives her crazy, so much so, in fact, that she just can't stand him. And he can't stand her either. But their hormones sure don't care about that. It started out rather well, with Banning and Avis deftly trading barbs and shooting daggers with their eyes - I was caught up in the sexual tension and couldn't wait for their heated confrontations. When he finds out that Avis is looking for a lover, Banning convinces Avis to let him be the man to initiate her in the pleasures of the flesh - he promises to be discreet and protect her identity, all the while showing her the joys of making love. While a bit wary, since Banning is not her first choice, deep down she can't ignore her attraction to her friend's brother, and agrees to let him be her teacher. With their tumultuous history and reluctant fascination for each other, sparks would surely fly. And they do. Sort of. But it seemed once the two agreed to be lovers, the tension ebbed away and all that fire and bickering melted into ooey-gooey sweetness. It just wasn't quite the same. It was still a good story, but the spark had gone out of it, mostly. There were still brief glimpses of it, but it wasn't quite the same as it was in the beginning. The love scenes are not overly explicit, and they do drive the story forward, showing the closeness that grows between Banning and Avis, and their blossoming friendship. Banning has been thinking seriously about finding a wife, and his time with Avis convinces him she would be the perfect complement to his household; he's attracted to her, he likes her, and the sex is great. Avis, on the other hand, is perfectly content to let their temporary affair continue to its conclusion, then go on as she'd intended: by using her new-found experience to write her romantic stories. She has no intention of marrying, ever, and this puts a big crimp in Banning's plans. It's up to him to convince her otherwise. Especially when he realizes he's in love. One thing I really liked about Banning is how encouraging he is with Avis' writing. True, this is what a hero is supposed to do, but he let her know that she is a good writer, and that she should trust her instincts more, and not worry so much about what others think. He didn't want her to feel beholden to anyone, that she had talent and should believe in it. He's so supportive, and never condescending about her passion. What I liked about Avis is that while she wants to protect her reputation, yet when it came to claiming the man she loves, she doesn't give a care about scandal and what it could mean for her. She just knows that she loves Banning and wants to be with him forever, and decides to fight for her man. It might have taken awhile for her to realize it, but once she does, she doesn't let her reputation hold her back. This is the debut for this author, and though the tension eased too soon, I will strongly consider buying her next book, especially now that I am still in my historical phase. Plus I enjoy seeing how an author grows and gets better over time. It's a cool thing to see. Rating: ***1/2 out of ***** Labels: Christie Kelley, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/27/2008 05:15:00 AM
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Wednesday, March 26, 2008:
~ Why not Gerard Butler? ~ (yeah, why not????) ~ Why not a Baskin-Robbins Cappuccino Blast? ~ (I don't want to hear it. Calories mean nothing to me in the middle of a craving.) ~ Why not sleep an extra 15 minutes in the morning? ~ (ah, it felt really good) ~ Why not stay home and read? ~ (alas, I must go to work, and not even a blue-eyed devil can change that) ~ Why not play the lottery? ~ (I believe it's up to $100 million...I could handle that) ~ Why not treat myself to several must-have books even if my tbr pile is out of control? ~ (yeah, it's an addiction, but one I can live with happily enough) ~ Why not pay it forward and buy someone a cup of coffee (or tea) today? ~ (someone did this for me yesterday, so it's my turn)
So. Why not...what?
Labels: Gerard Butler
posted by Stacy~ at 3/26/2008 05:15:00 AM
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Tuesday, March 25, 2008:
A winner and a reading report
Without any preliminaries, the winner of a copy of Dianne Castell's "Hot and Bothered" is... CAITLIN HOY!
Congratulations! Caitlin, please email me your snail mail addy: trelainastarblazer@yahoo.com If I do not hear from the winner by Friday, midnight, a new name will be drawn. In other news, I just happened to be updating my list of reads for 2008, and was looking at what I've got so far. Out of 28 books, these are my stats:
- 19 of them were released in 2007 or earlier
- 12 of them are historicals
- 3 of them have paranormal elements to them
- 8 of the authors were new to me
Are you keeping track of your 2008 books? What are your stats? Do you have a favorite picked out? Labels: 2008, reading books, winner
posted by Stacy~ at 3/25/2008 05:18:00 AM
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Monday, March 24, 2008:
"Elizabeth I" (1998) - movie review
This is the England of 1554, but the veneer of traditional English composure and dignity has been stripped away. The British populace is in turmoil. Fearing a challenge to her throne, Queen Mary I imprisons her half-sister, Princess Elizabeth Tudor (The daughter of King Henry VII and Anne Boleyn), in the Tower of London. But, in 1558, when "Bloody Mary" dies, Elizabeth is swept onto the throne and, at the age of 25, is crowned Queen of England. In order to survive, let alone to rule, Elizabeth must suss out hidden agendas: the Court is rife with intrigue; military strategists are risking the lives of young Englishmen; religious leaders at home and abroad place no faith in her; and the man she loves might not be worthy of her trust. The male-dominated ruling class would appear to have the advantage, but intelligent Elizabeth will deploy whatever means necessary to keep, or take what's rightfully hers.
I rented this movie because I'd not seen it before, and I was rather interested in seeing "Elizabeth: The Golden Age", which recently came out in theatres. I had no idea the first movie was released 10 years ago, but I do remember Cate Blanchett receiving an Oscar nomination for her performance (Gwyneth Paltrow won for "Shakespeare In Love"). Since I seem to have an aversion to award-winning movies, I steered clear of "Elizabeth".
Now that I'm older, hopefully wiser, I have a better appreciation for films that are well done, and so was the case, I enjoyed it very much. Of course a lot of it was speculation, for instance, as to whether Queen Elizabeth had any type of physical relationship with Sir Robert Dudley (played by Joseph Fiennes, who was in "Shakespeare In Love" in the same year). Princess Elizabeth was to have been condemned to death by her sister Mary, the current queen, who was dying. Because Mary was a Catholic and Elizabeth was not, many believed Elizabeth was a heretic and should die for it. She was arrested, brought to the Tower of London, and brought before her sister. Needless to say, she didn't die. She was made Queen. One of her first decisions, with the guidance of her closest council, involved sending soldiers to Scotland, against Mary of Guise, a more seasoned warrior, and ended in defeat, an act that led Elizabeth to trust her own judgment and not be prodded into war. She began making more of her own decisions while still seeking council, but trusting her own judgment. While acting fearless, her life was very much in danger at times, and in at least two instances, escaped with very close calls, one being a rather nasty poisoned dress episode where someone else ended up dying. Not a way to go. I liked how strong Elizabeth was. She looked a bit plain, but she was a force to be reckoned with once she really let herself rule. She could be charming, flirtatious, bold, but there was also a backbone of steel inside that woman. To defy so many men, and to not marry, well, that was something. She became the virgin Queen, married to England, and ruled for 45 years. Quite an accomplishment. And not just for a woman.
What woman/women of history do you admire?
Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/24/2008 05:44:00 AM
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Saturday, March 22, 2008:
Win Dianne Castell's latest release!
I just love contests, don't you? And for me, giving books away is really, really fun. Why do I do it, you may ask. Or maybe you just don't care. That's okay too. But I do it because I love putting a book in someone's hand, especially if it's a book I really loved. I want to share that feeling with everyone. And it's really kind of a cool karma thing, because the more I give away, the more I seem to end up with ways of giving back. Dianne Castell is a lot like that - a very caring and kind person who thinks of others and is very generous with her time and in giving to others. Her latest book, "Hot and Bothered", was one I really enjoyed. I can always count on her for a spunky, funny love story that makes me laugh and sigh at the same time, and this one was no exception. So today and tomorrow, I am hosting a contest to win a copy of "Hot and Bothered", and I am trying to make it fun and simple. Since tomorrow is Easter, I'm curious: What is your favorite Easter candy? Just leave a comment and I will pick a random winner from all the entries. The contest will end Sunday, March 23rd, at midnight CST, and I will draw a winner on Monday or Tuesday. Anyone is eligible to enter. Good luck! Labels: Dianne Castell
posted by Stacy~ at 3/22/2008 07:53:00 AM
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Friday, March 21, 2008:
Borders: closing their doors?
I love Borders. Even though I worked at the "other place" for what, 4 years, I still hold Borders near and dear to my heart. Their store is always so welcoming, despite being a large chain, I felt more appreciated there than I did at the other place. It seems more welcoming to everyday folk, whereas the other place is rather snooty. Since quitting my job from the other place (it's been over a year, November 2006), I can count on one hand the number of times I've stepped into the other place. But with Borders, I go there several times a month to feed my need for instant gratification. Such as next Tuesday when Lisa Kleypas' "Blue-Eyed Devil" and Sherry Thomas' "Private Arrangements" will be released. But with the economy as bad as it is, one of the first things people start cutting back on is entertainment, and for the most part, books are a source of that entertainment, and now Borders is feeling the pain of that loss. It breaks my heart, it really does. I do shop more online now, Amazon and yes, the other place, but not as much as I shop in person. I have 2 Borders located within 5 miles of me, so it's very convenient for me to drop in, usually after work, sometimes on my lunch hour. I can't imagine them not being there. Of course this is just the beginning, so they may be bought out as well. I'm trying to be optimistic as I don't want to see them close their doors, don't want to lose that informal, comfortable setting, the performances and events they host, none of it. I would miss it way too much. It's never good for a reader to hear a bookstore will be closing. Do you visit the bookstores, or buy online? Which do you do more of? Do you shop at Borders, or the other place instead? Labels: books, Borders
posted by Stacy~ at 3/21/2008 05:30:00 AM
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Thursday, March 20, 2008:
Get ready for summer and LuAnn's southern hotness
I adore LuAnn McLane, and her books are much like she is - sweet, sassy, and loaded with southern charm, humor and a small-town innocence that reminds me of growing up in the country. LuAnn's got some great stories liked up for 2008, and I can't wait to get my hands on these babies. Here's a sneak peek.... July 2008
There's nothing that good hair can't fix...
Macy is starting to lose faith. The chance to be with the love of her life-her best friend's brother-is slipping through her fingers. College football coach Luke Carter has a penchant for hot-bodies babes, not curvy hairdressers such as Macy. And some big-time school may be luring him away from Hootertown.
...or that a woman can't untangle.
But then a country-singing sensation's hair emergency turns into an unexpected big break for Macy. Making it in Nashville boosts Macy's confidence, but her feelings for Luke have her all knotted up inside. And when he interviews for a job at a local university, Macy will have to put up or shut up-or lose him forever. 
(October 2008)
What book(s) are you anxiously waiting for? When will it be released?
Labels: LuAnn McLane
posted by Stacy~ at 3/20/2008 04:53:00 AM
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Wednesday, March 19, 2008:
Happy Birthday Ms Jules :)
I thought about birthday cake, but knowing Jules like I do, I figured she'd probably like beefcake much, much more ;) A little bit of Jude for Jules And Matthew cuz he's a cutie And here's a little somethin', somethin' for MK, who had a birthday on Monday, St. Paddy's Day. I think she'll like this one. the rugged and yummy Jeffrey Dean Morgan Can never have too much of a good thing.... Happy birthday Bellas! Labels: birthday, Jules
posted by Stacy~ at 3/19/2008 05:21:00 AM
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Tuesday, March 18, 2008:
"Something New" (2006) - movie review
 If love is an adventure, it's one yet to be embarked upon by Kenya Denise McQueen. A beautiful L.A. career woman, Kenya works as senior manager at a prestigious accounting firm, and is on the verge of making partner. But she has yet to find her own partner and a fulfilling personal life. It's not that she's stopped looking; her (mental) checklist is at the ready. After another Valentine's Day spent working late, Kenya agrees to a blind date with Brian Kelly, a sexy and free-spirited landscape architect who turns out to be not exactly what she'd pictured for herself. Then again, she does need the yard of her new house fixed up. Her girlfriends Cheryl, Suzzette, and Nedra are there for her with advice, while Cheryl's new beau Walter shares a male perspective with Brian. Kenya's socially prominent parents Joyce and Edmond and womanizing younger brother Nelsen also voice their own opinions. But it's when her perfect match, Mark, enters the picture that Kenya is truly thrown into confusion. Ultimately, Kenya has to decide for herself and follow her heart--no matter where it takes her.
Kenya has a pretty damn good life: she's a gorgeous woman with a successful career, she has a wonderful family and great friends, she attends the most prominent parties, yet there's something missing. Kenya wants love in her life, and she knows exactly what she's looking for, she just hasn't found it yet. Armed with her mental list, she nevertheless agrees to a blind date with Brian, never expecting he'd be a white landscape architect. Immediately the shutters go down and her defenses go up - this guy doesn't stand a chance. But right from the start, Brian is attracted to her, and maybe even a little amused by her rigid demeanor, and being the laid-back yet confident guy he is, he quietly perseverves by being non-threatening, and eventually a little pushy when he insists she spend the day with him, and Kenya is helpless against the strong, mutual attraction, though she tries to fight it by running. Brian doesn't let her though, and though she's stubborn, she gives in, because she wants to be with him too, despite what her family and friends are telling her. Brian and Kenya don't shy away from their racial differences, and at times it can be uncomfortable, but refreshingly honest. Brian doesn't always understand Kenya's frustation about how she's treated at work, and Kenya thinks Brian isn't up to her caliber as far as money and status are concerned, and doesn't fit in with her high society lifestyle. Despite their growing feelings, maybe that just isn't enough to keep them together.... Blond, blue-eyed Brian (Simon Baker) is the epitome of a blue-collar surfer dude with an open heart, and elegant and exotic Kenya (Sanaa Lathan) is like a royal princess, but a rather unhappy one. They might not seem like they fit, but at the end of the day, the layers come off and it's just Brian and Kenya, two people falling in love. But in the back of Kenya's mind is the thought that she can do better, and when a successful black man named Mark (Blair Underwood) comes into her life, she thinks she's finally found what she's looking for. I really enjoyed this movie. Brian and Kenya are both gorgeous people; hell, the whole cast is just good-looking, and it's sweet and poignant and twisted up in expectations and goals and all those other things that make people crazy. I thought Simon Baker and Sanaa Lathan looked beautiful together, and share a lovely chemistry, though the whole movie felt right with each character, from Kenya's parents and brother to her girlfriends and co-workers. Blair Underwood comes into the picture and he's not a bad guy, and it would be very easy to see his character, Mark, making a good life with Kenya. She just has to choose the right path for her, and it really could go either way. I definitely think she made the right choice, because she radiated with happiness. And that is what makes this movie a charming love story. I watched it several times before returning it, that's how much I liked it. Gave me the warm fuzzies. Rating: ****1/2 out of ***** Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/18/2008 05:20:00 AM
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Sunday, March 16, 2008:
'Tempted" by Megan Hart - review (2008)
Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Spice (January 1, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0373605196
ISBN-13: 978-0373605194 I had everything a woman could want. My husband James. The house on the lake. My life. Our perfect life. And then Alex came to visit. The first time I saw my husband's best friend, I didn't like him. Didn't like how James changed when he was around, didn't like how his penetrating eyes followed me everywhere. But that didn't stop me from wanting him. And surprisingly, James didn't seem to mind. It was meant to be fun. Something the three of us shared for those hot summer weeks Alex stayed with us. Nobody was supposed to fall in or out of love. I didn't need another man, not even one who oozed sex like honey and knew all the secrets I didn't know, the secrets my husband hadn't shared. After all, we had a perfect life. I loved my husband. But I wasn't the only one. I read "Dirty" by Megan Hart and really enjoyed it, so of course I had to buy "Broken", and more recently "Tempted". I haven't read "Broken" yet, but I did pick up this one because it sounded really hot and I was in the mood for it. Anne is happily married to James, and they have a wonderful life together. Not perfect, but pretty damn good. Then there are the families. Anne must deal not only with her own family and there secrets and traumas, but she must also put up with James', especially his mother, who never seems to find Anne good enough, and even his sisters, who follow their mother's lead. But family is still important, no matter how dysfunctional, so Anne and her sisters are in the midst of planning a party for their parents' 30th wedding anniversary, and dealing with all the stress that goes with it. Anne starts to notice that the closeness she once shared with her sisters has changed, and it's obvious that at least one of her sisters is hiding something, but the stress of planning the party takes precedence for the moment. To add to Anne's distraction, a long-time friend from James' past, Alex, is returning to the states and would like to come visit James. Anne is a bit confused as she thought the friendship had ended long ago, but doesn't prevent James from inviting Alex to stay with them while he's in the states. Almost from the first, when Alex unexpectedly arrives and surprises her, Anne is drawn to her husband's friend. Good-looking, charming, and a self-proclaimed "rascal", Alex has a strong effect on both Anne and James, and they end up doing things and going to places they normally wouldn't go. Eventually, James and Alex persuade Anne to allow Alex into their bedroom, which really didn't take much persuading, but Anne is a faithful wife, and will only agree if her husband is okay with it. Anne senses that this is one way her husband and Alex can be closer without actually being sexually intimate themselves. Alex stays with the couple for several weeks, and during that time he shares their bed, and inevitably it isn't just about sex anymore. Each is caught up in the excitement, and the emotion this new arrangement has evoked, and slowly Anne begins to learn things about her husband that she didn't know, some of them a bit upsetting to her, and she's not sure who she feels about what she's learned. As secrets are revealed in her marriage, so are they revealed with her sisters and parents. It begins to feel like everything Anne thought she knew is no longer true, that it's just a cover for what's really going on. She begins to evaluate her relationships, and her ever-present need to fix everything. This novel is marketed as an erotic novel, and in some ways it is, but it's not explicit or completely about sex. It's also about secrets, and pleasing people, and not being true to yourself. There were moments I didn't like Anne, other times I did. I felt she could be too selfish, too self-absorbed, and too indignant when she discovers things about the people she loves, yet has no compunction about keeping her own secrets. Yet she could also be so supportive of her sisters, and she's suffered tragedy in her own way, so while she may have annoyed me at times, I could also sympathize with her, and even understand the choices she makes. Feelings are not simple things, and they don't always make sense, either. We live with them the best we can. Alex seems to be the catalyst that breaks down some of the barriers between Anne and James, and several truths are revealed, and in many ways, it was a good thing. But in no way does it solve everything, or make everything all better. There are quite a few loose ends, unresolved feelings, unspoken words. Ms. Hart eludes to many things, but doesn't feel the need to reveal everything, because, as in real life, it's not that simple. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Having read "Dirty", I felt going in that this was going to be similar in that "Rome was not built in a day" kind of ending. Ms. Hart's stories are works-in-progress, and the results could go either way, but isn't that much how life is? She also has this ability to make mundane daily details seem interesting, so I was caught up in the story even though at most times the conversations or goings-on were rather ordinary. My heart would go out to these characters, and at times I wanted to shield them from their pain. As with any good book, it was a little hard to let them go. Rating: **** 1/2 out of ***** Labels: Megan Hart, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/16/2008 07:25:00 AM
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Friday, March 14, 2008:
...and it's called chemistry. I recently saw a poll somewhere on the 25 hottest on-set hookups, whether they ended happily or in disaster. Some might make you sigh with happiness, while others will make you cringe and wonder "WTF were they thinking????" One that I definitely had to agree with, both onscreen and in real life, was the matching of Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams from the sentimental tearjerker (and a movie I loved!) "The Notebook". They were just so cute together, and I admit, they made a great couple, but alas, they are no longer together. I read somewhere that supposedly the two couldn't stand each other while they were filming the movie, either not talking to each other, or having these major screaming matches. But that's one of those unpredictable things about chemistry: it can make hate turn to love. Some of the other couples mentioned are Minnie Driver and Matt Damon from "Good Will Hunting" (no longer together), Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell (still together over 20 years later), Kim Basinger and Alec Baldwin (uh, definitely no love lost there), Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise (both married to other people), Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy (he was married but separated from his wife - well duh) and of course, the infamous pairing of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (each of them were on the list a few time). Who are some of your favorite on-set hookups? Who do you wish would break up already? Who would you match up together? Labels: couples
posted by Stacy~ at 3/14/2008 05:49:00 AM
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Thursday, March 13, 2008:
Let's get this party started! Come on down, Dianne Castell!
Today is the start of Dianne Castell's blog party over at Laurie's place. Check it out: you could win prizes from Lori Foster, HelenKay Dimon, Sylvia Day, Toni Blake, Janelle Denison, and more! So go say "hi" to Dianne over at Laurie's Laudanum! But while you're here, tell me, what, or better yet who, gets you all hot and bothered? Is it Matt Damon? Erotic romances? The cute UPS guy who delivers your books? Romantic movies? Johnny Depp? The sexy mechanic who works in your office? Do tell ;) Labels: blogging, Dianne Castell
posted by Stacy~ at 3/13/2008 05:37:00 AM
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Wednesday, March 12, 2008:
"Hot and Bothered" by Dianne Castell (2008)
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Brava (March 25, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0758223595
ISBN-13: 978-0758223593
SAVANNAH WHEN IT SIZZLES Savannah, Georgia: city of history, mystery, and ghosts as well as four best friends who have never fit in anywhere except with each other. But everything is about to change as an unsolved murder from decades ago draws them close—and closer still—to four sexy bachelors with secrets of their own... In Savannah, what you expect is never what you get...
Dianne Castell definitely has a style all her own when it comes to writing, and I get such a kick out of her sassy, southern heroines and hot, sexy heroes. When they finally get past all their stubborn pride and fall head over heels in love, it sure is something to see. Snap, crackle, pop. In "Hot and Bothered", gorgeous hotelier Griff Parrish III has hired stand-in detective Charlotte deShawn to locate Jaden Carswell, who disappeared years ago as a baby and has recently been named as co-heir of the Magnolia House hotel, along with Griff the Biscuit. He wants to locate Jaden so he can buy her out and go on with running the hotel as he's done for years, and he thinks Charlotte, though inexperienced and new to the P.I. business, is worth the risk. It doesn't hurt that the two of them have been shooting sparks off each other since they were teenagers either - gives them the perfect opportunity to be around each other. Charlotte is flustered but determined to solve the case. With her bestest girlfriends Prissy, Brie and Bebe around to lend their support, Charlotte is convinced she can do this and try to remain a respectable distance away from the one man that completely flips her switch, as long as she has her friends along to keep her in line. But the other women have their hands full with their own romantic entanglements, some more entangling than others. So it would seem Charlotte is on her own, though she does encounter otherworldly assistance when the trail seems to be drying up and she needs a little inspiration, southern style. Amidst ghosts, missing babies, expensive heirlooms and misunderstandings, will her heart betray her, or lead her to the best thing that could ever come into her life? Another heart-warming and amusing story by Dianne set in the quaint and sassy south, this time in picturesque Savannah, Georgia. At first my head was dizzy from the revolving door of characters, but the more they hung around, the more I began to look forward to meeting up with them again and discovering their quirky personalities. Our heroine, Charlotte, is loving and generous, and not sure if falling in love with Griff is such a good idea, not when she works for him now and isn't sure what his angle is, and how she fits into everything. One minute Griff is all over Charlotte, the next he's pushing her away. Trying to figure him out has got her spinning in circles, and not at all sure if she buys into this love business. But she's got other things on her mind: there's a mystery to be solved, and secrets to uncover, and Charlotte is too stubborn to let them go that easily. Watching her butt heads with Griff is a lot of fun, and makes me wonder what else is in store for these two lovebirds. And this is not "the end". There is more mystery and intrigue to look forward to. So if you're in the mood for something sassy, light and southern, you can't go wrong with "Hot and Bothered". It's cute, funny and spunky, and with the last dregs of winter still upon us, the perfect way to beat those weather blues. Pick up your copy....or stay tuned right here. And starting tomorrow, March 13th, don't miss out on Laurie's special blog party in honor of Dianne's latest release. Check out Laurie's place, and be sure to stop back here next week for a contest to win your own copy of "Hot and Bothered"!
Labels: Dianne Castell, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/12/2008 04:57:00 AM
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Tuesday, March 11, 2008:
The Spies Have it: interview with JoAnna Bourne
Readers, romance readers probably more than most, have an incredibly endless passion for the books they read. With so many genres and sub-genres to choose from, there is something to appeal to everyone. Occasionally though, all these books can get lost in the overabundance of choices, and not many stand out in a reader's mind. Yet when it does happen, it is so amazing that we all want to share this experience with everyone we can think of.
Such was the experience with "The Spymaster's Lady", written by Joanna Bourne. The buzz about this book started long before the actual release date in January 2008, and it was more than just the sexy cover that was getting noticed. Ms. Bourne had written a clever, intelligent novel of intrigue featuring a memorable heroine and a hero strong enough to match her in wit, in negotiation, and in love.
I originally "met" Ms. Bourne at Michelle Buonfiglio's blog, and she has been gracious enough to answer some burning questions of my own, so without further ado, here is this talented author, Joanna Bourne, in her own words:
S ~ Welcome Joanna! "The Spymaster's Lady" was an incredibly intriguing and engrossing read, full of rich detail and wonderful dialogue. How long did it take you to write it, start to finish, with all the research and editing involved?
Thank you for the kind, kind words. I never think of the dialog as something I write, exactly, because so much of it just 'comes' to me. I hear it.
Hard to say how long "Spymaster's Lady" took to write, really, because I didn't just sit down and write the one story straight through. I worked on a couple other things as well. I have completed manuscripts that will never see the light of day. I was learning craft, and they aren't quite good enough.
The time writing of "Spymaster's Lady" ...? If you added up just that, it was maybe a year and a half, writing work and editing.
The research is even less easy to quantify. I'm always researching. Give me a bit of downtime and I'm curled up with a nice 1800's diary. I do love history. So the Regency background was already in my head from many years of reading. I didn't have to do deep research. When I needed the little, specific bits and pieces, I'd just go zip it off the internet.
S~ Why drew you back to writing romance, after so many years of writing non-fiction? How did those years help you with writing fiction?
Romance is my love. Non-fiction puts food on the table.
To be fair, non-fiction teaches precision and large-scale organization. That's always good. The plot of a fiction manuscript takes just endless organizing and chivvying into shape and going back and forth, fiddling with details. I learned to do that -- as much as I ever learned to do that -- putting together big non-fiction works.
When I left fiction back in 1983 and went to work for the government, I always meant to return to Romance someday. It's kinda an 'I will return' situation and me jumping out of the landing craft and wading ashore.
I love what I'm doing. I'd write even if only a dozen people read the book. I'm so delighted when even one more person picks "Spymaster's Lady" up.
S~ Tell me a little about how you set out to write each day. Do you have a favorite writing spot, a cozy corner in your home? Or do you find you can write anywhere as long as you have a laptop? Any specific rituals you follow?
I can write anywhere. I don't see or hear what's going on around me when I'm writing.
But I do like noise and people and bustle passing by, if I can get it. Gives me something to ignore, I guess. Most every day when I'm writing I grab the laptop and head for Panera or Starbucks or Greenberry's or one of the indie coffeeshops with which my town is liberally provided and settle down to work.
I can do about six hours work before I flake out. Then in the evening, after dinner, I'll play around for an hour or two more, sitting on the sofa with the laptop in my ... well ... lap. Maybe editing. Maybe doing research. Maybe just haaaanging.
Right now, I'm not doing that. Right now I'm just beginning Maggie's story. So I walk around thinking and do a lot of housework. Useful.
S ~ What are some of the stereotypes that frustrate you about romance novels and the writers who write them and the readers who love them?
Sadly, when I say, 'I am a Romance writer,' the response is not -- 'So you write those filthy slut books that give dem wemmins all the uppity ideas,' -- which would allow me to verbally grind somebody into the dust and probably make my week.
Usually the response is, 'I don't read books much.'
I'd almost rather be heaped with abuse than hear that folks don't read at all.
What frustrates me? I do hate it when independent bookstores carry no Romance at all. Not one. Not the tippy top, best author. They can find houseroom for science fiction and thriller and mystery. But no Romance. When authors write in two genres, they'll carry the author's mysteries or thrillers ... but not her Romances. Go figure.
I know there's probably political-social-intellectual-historical reasons for all this. But what it reminds me of is ten-year-old boys shrieking and running for the far side of the playground so they won't get 'girlcooties' on them.
I'd like to see the best, most interesting Romance books reach a wider audience. The indie bookstores are the ones who could choose the best and make this happen. It's a pity they don't. (gnashing of teeth.)
S ~ I admit, in most of the romances I read, I focus on the hero, and find him more fascinating than the heroine, but that is not completely the case this time around. Though Robert certainly was a worthy hero, it was the heroine that caught my attention from the very first. Annique is young but world-weary, innocent but experienced, scared but enormously courageous, and I found myself completely infatuated with her, full of respect for the choices she's made to survive. What influenced her creation?
Well ... physically, she looks like a young Nastassja Kinski, so there's that.
Thinking about it ... I don't really sit down and build a character like it was a lego castle. It's more like setting out the right bait and luring a shy critter out of the woods and getting to know it. Pat pat.
One major influence on Annique was her mother. Once I knew the mother, I knew a lot of what Annique had to be like.
S ~ Do you see yourself ever writing contemporary stories, quite possibly romantic suspense, or do you find yourself quite enamored of history and have an endless supply to tell? (Note: I see back in Sept '06 you were thinking contemp paranormal. Do tell)
I'd like to write contemp someday. I'd love to write along just using any old word that comes to mind, instead of stopping and asking myself, "Is this historical vocabulary?" Was the word was used in 1800, and if so, was there a shade of difference in usage? So distracting.
That said, I don't have a contemporary story calling to me right now. There's a story plotted in me, but it hasn't grabbed my by the neck and hauled me off.
S ~ What is your favorite way to relax, to re-charge those creative juices and start fresh?
I'm doing that now, actually. I just sent in the copyedits of "My Lord and Spymaster".
I haven't started on Doyle's story yet. I'm just walking around thinking about Maggie.
So what I'm doing ...
1) Diving into the huge tottering TBR pile.
2) Walking the dog. I live where there's a lot of open country and mountains. Lovely.
3) Cooking. Chicken curry tonight, and we'll make a cake in a while.
S ~ Since you've done such an amazing job of capturing the feel and textures of France and England during the Napoleonic Wars, have you considered other countries, other time periods? Other places you've lived, such as Africa perhaps? What are some of your favorite moments in history to research?
For right now, I feel comfortable and fulfilled in Regency England and France and in the philosophic struggle of those three decades. I like my Meeks Street bunch, too. It'd take a while before I got 'wrote out' in the period. If I did, I think I'd go to contemps before I went larking about in some other historical period.
You never know though. Nineteenth century China is interesting. And Classical Rome.
S ~ What is the most tedious aspect of writing? What is the most inspiring?
I don't think writing ever gets precisely tedious. I find all parts delightful and satisfying -- from sitting around waiting for the character of Maggie, (my next heroine,) to coalesce to making a decision on each of the commas between independent clauses.
(Well, proofreading can get tedious. OK. Yeah. I cannot spell worth beans and I am the world's worst proofreader.)
Now this isn't tedious here ... but I do get bat-flight zigzag crazy when I don't have enough time to get something right and I know I could do it if I just had more time. That, I hate.
Don't know whereas I get inspired by anything I do. But it's fun work and I love it and I consider it important and worthwhile.
Holding the book in your hands for the first time is great. Beyond words.
Finishing that first, it-all-hangs-together-and-makes-sense draft is wonderful.
Waking up in the morning and just all of a sudden knowing how you're going to solve a plot problem that's been bugging you and the solution is so bloody clever you want to just run down the stairs shouting -- that's super good.
S ~ Who are some of your favorite heroes and heroines, real and fictional? Villains?
I want Roarke. This is a fairly common affliction, I believe. I do not fling myself in his path like a tossed flounder only because (a) Eve Dallas would kick my butt if I tried and (b) he is fictional. (He has his own wiki, though, which is halfway to becoming real.)
Villain. I'm thinking of Javert. I'm going to reread "Les Miserables" to put myself in the mood for writing about France. I'll be looking at Javert a lot. Villains never think of themselves as villains. I have to work with that, somehow.
One problem we have in genre Romance is we don't have time to develop the villains much.
S ~ What are your thoughts on the online relationships between readers and writers? Do you think writers should let their work speak for themselves, or do you find it's important to interact with readers and share the thoughts behind what you write?
The work has to stand on its own, of course. You can't run in, yelling, 'What are you thinking !!!This is 1803! Will you look at the historical context, you donkey!" because ... well, it's all undignified.
But if somebody asks a question I'm just tickled pink and will answer at much greater length than they ever dreamed possible and keep talking till their eyes start to, y'know, glaze over.
S ~ Since the release of "The Spymaster's Lady", what have been some of your favorite moments?
A fellow member of the Compuserve Books and Writers Forum is sponsoring a " Where in the World is Spymaster's Lady" contest. (It went on till the end of February.) The idea was to take pictures of "Spymaster's Lady" in some exotic local, or in front of something characteristic of one's home town. (One of the loveliest is "Spymaster's Lady" perched in a great heap of snow.)
Some folks have done photoshop versions. "Spymaster's Lady" on the Moon. "Spymaster's Lady" with a geisha in full rig ...
Hilarious. I am reduced to helpless laughter.
The prize was a signed copy and somehow I promised to judge ...
S ~ Have you always wanted to be a writer? Is this something you've done all your life, in some form or fashion? What were some of your favorite books as a child?
Yes. Yes. Always wanted to be a writer. Before I could write, I wanted to be a storyteller. I used to keep my little sister up at night telling her stories.
I know I liked Dr. Seuss. I can still recite a lot of them. Yertle the Turtle and Horton Hears a Who probably shaped my political philosophy.
S ~ Besides writing, I'm fascinated with the other areas of writers' lives. What other interests do you have? Karate? Flying? Sudoku?
I can't do word puzzles. They frustrate me. I want to end up with something useful if I put that much work into something and, as I said, I can't spell.
And I hate to fly. Hate hate hate. I don't really believe in Bernoulli's Principle and I know it can stop working at any moment and just leave me hanging there in the sky in a tin can.
I collect glass paperweights. Just a few special pretty ones. I have a display set up where the light shines up through them.
And I use power tools. I'm going to make some rough-and-ready furniture as soon as the weather warms up a bit and I can work in the garage.
S ~ I know you've addressed the fact that you had no input on the cover for "The Spymaster's Lady", but what was your reaction when you saw it? (Sidenote: isn't it a nice pic of Nathan?)
I think I said, "Oh my. I wonder if he's chilly."
(I'm very protective of my characters.)
My husband said, "Does this mean you have to write a scene where Grey takes his clothes off outdoors?"
S ~ Just a comment here. I really enjoyed your blog visit at Michelle Buonfiglio's blog on 1/16 and the topic of female empowerment. Probably one of the most delightful things about Annique is how she kept besting the 3 men who had kidnapped her, including legendary spymaster Robert Grey. Even her being a spy was not enough for these men to acknowledge that a woman might be able to outmanuveur them intellectually, and on occasion, physically.
I can see the old genre standard, 'kidnapped by the hero,' could get old. I can see the hunger for a heroine who goes out and kicks major butt in an obvious way.
But however worthy the goal, this has never been about creating a female Rambo. Annique is a covert agent. Her great skill is to be a professional infiltrator and observer. This is about outmaneuvering a stronger force and waiting for opportunity. This is kicking subtle and sneaky butt.
S ~ Any last thoughts you'd like to share?
I have a book coming out in four months, in July, " My Lord and Spymaster". Adrian, ten years older, is a secondary character and Doyle appears once or twice.
S ~ Sounds quite wonderful, and I can't wait for my copy :)
Jo, thank you for the wonderful story you've written, one that I'll be re-reading time and time again. I appreciate you taking the time to answer any of my questions.
Bloggers, stay tuned for a contest, and your chance to win a copy of
"The Spymaster's Lady"! Labels: author interviews, Joanna Bourne
posted by Stacy~ at 3/11/2008 04:59:00 AM
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Monday, March 10, 2008:
This past weekend, the company I work for hosted our summit, an event we attend every 18 months or so. This was my 4th event. Our company has about 360 employees across the country, mostly based in the Chicago area. We stayed in a really nice hotel - a Westin - that was just opened a few months ago, and the color scheme was done in tasteful shades of purple (I love purple). The food was excellent and the service was outstanding and friendly. Of course there was some grumbling on my part to be giving up my weekend, but once I got there, ingested some caffeine and saw people I haven't seen in a long time, it got better fairly quickly. I wasn't thrilled to be there, but it wasn't as bad as I tend to make it out to be. Of course one of the platforms involves a motivational speaker, which can make or break an event. I've enjoyed most of the guest speakers, especially those with a great sense of humor, though you can tell when the "hook" in the speaker's presentation is fake or not, more propaganda than anything else - they are there to sell books. And in this world, I guess I take everything with a grain of salt. For example, Jodi had blogged about her thoughts on " The Secret", which while I tended to agree, I didn't hate it as much as she did, but then again I only read the book and didn't see the DVD or hear all the scary music. It was recommended to me by a co-worker who isn't into the "next big thing" so I didn't really have any pre-conceived notions abou it. Yeah, most of it is stuff we've heard before, and it's really not a "secret", but it was a good reminder of doing things that can bring positive change to our lives. If there is anything positive to say about it, it's that there were people who seriously incorporated parts of it into their daily lives and made it work for them. "The Secret" is not for everyone, but some people can find part that make a difference. Others have the Bible, the Koran, Kabbalah, Scientology, etc. We each have to find the path that works for us. Anyway, as usual I got a little side-tracked. So our guestspeaker for the weekend was Steve Gilliland, who, to be honest, I'd never heard of before Saturday, though his voice is recognizable to sportsfans as he was in broadcasting for many years. He was really good, and I liked how he talked about his family, particularly his mother and how she and others have impacted his life to such a degree. He not only made me laugh, but he made me cry, too. Was his speech just a "rah rah rah" spiel orchestrated to help him sell more books? Possibly. Did I feel manipulated by his words? Not really. I liked most of what he had to say, even if it's stuff we've all heard before. Is there a speaker out there that's really fresh and new and preaching original material the audience has never heard before? Doubtful, but the thing is, we all take away something from any speaker, whether it's good or bad, and turn it into our own. I liked that he emphasized that we, each of us personally, is responsible for whether we have a good or a bad day. True, most of us didn't want to be at that summit, but it was mandatory - suck it up and try to find something to enjoy about it. Hey, fabulous food, entertainment, a great hotel room - what's not to like? And, I won a re-furbished laptop (will be donating it since I just bought a new one) an a $200 VISA gift card - I LOVED this conference *g* What do you think of motivational speakers: real or fake? Have you any favorite and/or memorable speakers? How do you feel about public speaking yourself? Labels: motivation
posted by Stacy~ at 3/10/2008 10:25:00 AM
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Friday, March 07, 2008:
The avatar - you or not you?
A very special "merci beaucoup" to Julie for her blog post yesterday. It was quite fun, and hopefully she'll be making a return visit. I've even given her an assignment to make things a little easy on her, so let's hope it works. Otherwise I might have to recommend book 3 in a new series to her.... So here's my avatar. And it looks just like me. Except for the long hair. And the hint of cleavage. And well, the pouty lips. And oh yeah, the wings. Other than that, spitting image. Curious to know: what do you use for your avatar: is it a picture of you, or something else? I haven't decided whether I want to use a picture of myself or keep what I've got, which is oh, so me. And where you find your avatars - do you find them on the web and just down-size them, or is there a special avatar site you love to visit? I'm going to be making some changes to this place in the near future, and I'm trying to find a fitting avatar. Would love some input. Thank you much. Labels: me
posted by Stacy~ at 3/07/2008 05:30:00 AM
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Thursday, March 06, 2008:
Guestblogger Jules on OCD, or as I see it, a.k.a. known as 1-2-3 disorder....
Today I have a guestblogger, the lovely Julie, whom I met about 2 years ago at Michelle's place. I've been patiently asking (pestering the hell out of her, really) to write up a blog for me because I find her posts to be funny and and perceptive, and I figured she'd come up with some great topics, and today's blog is definitely one that I can relate to (see Jules, I told you it would be good!) She's also one heck of a poet, and maybe if I can find a way to blackmail her, she'll come back and let me post some of her "classic" odes *g*. So without further rambling from me, heeeeeere's Jules! ************************* There is a show on the Discovery Channel called "MythBusters". They take an urban legend or myth (pop rocks and soda, anyone?) and recreate it to see if it's true or not. That's what I would like to do, a little myth busting. If I say to you the words Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, what do you think of? The common answer is a clean house, alphabetized spice cabinet, etc. HA! Let me bust that myth right now. My name is Julie and I have OCD. Yes, the cleaning and hand washing are definite traits of OCD, they are only a few. Much to my family's dismay, my house is not the spotless paragon that is imagined of this neurosis. I work full-time, am a soccer, basketball, and cheerleading mom (three girls and not one could pick the same sport), have dinner on the table every night (true, four out of seven days it comes from bags with the golden arches on them but hey, I am not Superwoman), and other fun life stuff. My point being unless you come over Saturday afternoon, you will see shoes and coats thrown wherever, the occasional homework paper on the floor, and you may want to think twice about wearing white gloves when crossing the threshhold. My major malfunction deals with order, not necessarily everyone's idea of order, just mine. It could be papers lying down that aren't stacked "correctly" (staples are my nemesis) or canisters that aren't arranged biggest to smallest. :shiver: My biggest deal is reading books in order. I HAVE to read 1-2-3 or I get completely discombobulated. I'm not sure when it started exactly but I know it happened when a book by a little known author named Julia Quinn caught my eye and made me buy it. It was " To Sir Philip, With Love". I didn't know anything about JQ or the Bridgertons but as I was reading, I got this horrible feeling and the book stopped making sense to me. I finished it but it left me cold. I went to JQ's website and sure enough there were FOUR books before this one. I went to Amazon immediately and bought her entire back list. Usually I don't go quite that far but I couldn't make the same mistake twice by missing something. Since then, I can't just go into a bookstore on the spur of the moment. I have to know specifically what I'm looking for. I can't just pick up a new to me author because what if I'm picking up a series already in progress. I get my books primarily by recommendations. I kid Stacy and others about putting me in the poor house with their wonderful recs but truth be told I would be sitting here crying in my beer without them. I have a firm motto: No matter what the author says, there are no stand alone books. If I keep that in mind, maybe I won't misplace any more of my loose screws.
Do you have any fun quirks that drive others crazy?
Are you a 1-2-3 reader or am I a few sandwiches short of a picnic? ************** Thanx Jules, for coming out to play today. I hope you decide to come back - you are definitely welcome anytime.
Labels: guest blogger, Jules
posted by Stacy~ at 3/06/2008 05:29:00 AM
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Wednesday, March 05, 2008:
I am NOT a "people" person...
...yet I've managed to work with the public for at least the last 7 years now. I work for a credit union, and I like my job very much, but as I said, I'm not a people person, and that part of it can be draining for me. In the time I've held this position, I've managed to adapt to people knowing who I am, approaching me in the cafeteria or even in the bathroom to ask me questions. Most times it doesn't bother me, though it's weird to have people I don't know know who I am. I deal. It's really not a bad gig and I try to have fun with it. Otherwise I'd go crazy. After a long day with people, I rarely like to go out during the week, especially in the winter. I don't avoid people altogether, but I do feel the need to get in some quality "me" time. But then there's this evil invention that keeps ringing and ringing and some days I just can't make it stop. Usually it's my friend L calling, and when she's on the phone, it's never a quick 15-minute conversation. It's anywhere between 1-3 hours long. For awhile, she was calling me everyday. EVERYDAY to talk for 2 hours. A whole lot of nothin' can be discussed in that time, let me tell you, but I just didn't have the heart to tell her. Finally, after months of this, I've either found reasons to cut the calls short, or if I'm in a particularly anti-social mood, I won't even answer the phone. I probably should feel guilty about that, but well, I don't. Are you a "people" person? Do you like talking on the phone, or do you have better things to do? Labels: me
posted by Stacy~ at 3/05/2008 05:24:00 AM
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Tuesday, March 04, 2008:
"Just Like Heaven" (2005) - movie review
When David sublets his quaint San Francisco apartment, the last thing he expects--or wants--is a roommate. He begins to make a complete mess of the place when a pretty young woman, named Elizabeth, suddenly shows up, adamantly insisting the apartment is hers. David assumes that there's been a giant misunderstanding, until Elizabeth disappears just as mysteriously as she had appeared. Changing the locks does nothing to deter Elizabeth, who begins to appear and disappear at will--mostly to rebuke David for his personal living habits in her apartment. Convinced that she is a ghost, David tries to help Elizabeth cross over to the "other side." But while Elizabeth has discovered she does have a distinctly ethereal quality--she can walk through walls--she is equally convinced that she is somehow still alive and isn't crossing over anywhere. As Elizabeth and David search for the truth about who Elizabeth is and how she came to be in her present state, their relationship deepens into love. Unfortunately, they have very little time before their prospects for a future together permanently fade away.
I really like Reese Witherspoon, have since I saw her in "Man in the Moon" eons ago, and I also really liked Mark Ruffalo in "13 going on 30". I was in the mood for a romantic comedy, so when I was scoping my Netflix Q, I moved this one to the top. Reese plays Elizabeth, an overworked doctor (who of course still looks lovely despite working over 24 hours) who has no time for a social life. One evening, as she's driving to her sister's house, she gets into an accident - pouring rain, bright headlights, wide eyes, the whole bit. Next thing we see, Mark, as David, is looking for an apartment, and ends up being directed to Elizabeth's gorgeous San Francisco place with an incredible view and an rooftop access. He loves the couch. He decides to sublet, and moves right in. One night as he's drowning his sorrows (there's a story there), Elizabeth shows up, and after the initial shock, she berates him for being a pig, then vanishes. David thinks he's imagined the whole thing until it happens again, and at this point, he confesses to his best friend, Jack, who also happens to be a pyschiatrist. His friend thinks he spends too much time alone, and tries to get him to socialize more. David finally agrees, only Elizabeth ends up following him out to the bar, and it becomes clear that he's the only one who can see or hear her. He realizes that the only thing he can do is try to discover who she is - because other than her name, she doesn't remember - so by finding clues in her apartment, they start piecing the puzzle together, trying to find out why her spirit is stuck with David. Fun story, and I liked how Elizabeth and David at first didn't like each other, but the more time they spent with each other, the more they truly saw the other person and began to open up to them. Doesn't hurt that both of them are cute as buttons, and rather charming together. It wasn't overly sweet, which I was grateful for, yet it was funny and nice and cozy. Elizabeth and David begin to have feelings for each other, but the way things are going, it doesn't look like they have much of a future together, or do they? Well, it's a romantic comedy, so you figure it out. Rating: **** out of ***** Who are some of your favorite romantic comedy actors/actresses? Any unconventional choices? Who would you like to see in a romantic comedy? Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/04/2008 05:04:00 AM
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Monday, March 03, 2008:
"Vantage Point" (2008) - mini movie review
Thomas Barnes (Dennis Quaid) and Kent Taylor (Matthew Fox) are two Secret Service agents assigned to protect President Ashton at a landmark summit on the global war on terror. When President Ashton is shot moments after his arrival in Spain, chaos ensues and disparate lives collide in the hunt for the assassin. In the crowd is Howard Lewis, an American tourist who thinks he's captured the shooter on his camcorder while videotaping the event for his kids back home. Also there is American TV news producer Rex Brooks, relaying the historic event to millions of TV viewers across the globe. As they and others reveal their stories, the pieces of the puzzle will fall into place - and it will become apparent that shocking motivations lurk just beneath the surface.
Instead of going to see "The Other Boelyn Girl", because I just wasn't in the mood for royal intrigue, no matter how delicious, I went and saw "Vantage Point", and though the first 1/2 hour dragged a bit because of the Rashomon elements to the film - which meant we were seeing the same scene 8 different ways - it finally kicked into high gear and got kinda interesting. What I liked:
the action scenes, especially the car chases - they got my adrenaline pumping
Dennis Quaid, because I've liked several of his movies, and he definitely makes the film work here. He's like the perfect American hero.
Sigourney Weaver, the strong female character who is compassionate when she needs to be. Wish her role had been more significant here.
Forest Whitaker, who is truly amazing in whatever he does, that no matter how small the role may seem, I'm compelled to watch him ( sidenote: did you know he was set to play the character of Sawyer in "Lost"? What a different angle that would bring to the series versus Josh Holloway, now wouldn't it?)
Eduardo Noriega, because he made me sympathize with his character, and well, cuz he's hot, and there should always be a hot guy in every movie.
What I didn't like:
eight (8!) different angles of the same scene took too long to tell. It makes sense to piece together the story, and to see what was going on in those few moments, but I was getting impatient for it to move on. Enough was enough.
too many unanswered questions about the group that shot at the President and staged the whole thing. I hate not knowing the purpose behind such a big conspiracy. In some movies, gray areas work because there's more to the story - we know it's ongoing, but in this type of film, it should be spelled out. That's just the way it is as far as I see it.
that it is forgettable. It's like junk food, serves its purpose to fill you up and then you move on with those empty calories. Basically, I can live without seeing this movie again.
Final thoughts: like I said, the action is great, especially on the big screen. but you still might want to wait for it to come out on DVD. Rating: ***1/2 out of ***** Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 3/03/2008 05:07:00 AM
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Sunday, March 02, 2008:
MK has a post up about the Bon Jovi concert she just recentlysaw, and it reminded me that today is Jon's 46th birthday. Unlike her, I have been a die-hard fan since, oh, 1987, a few years after they first came out, and I remember watching them on American Bandstand and thinking Jon was the hottest thing to ever exist. To my intense sadness, I have never, yes (sob) never, been to one of their concerts. Yet growing up, Bon Jovi was THE band I adored, more than Duran Duran or The Cure. I had tons of Jon Bon Jovi pictures on my wall (which eventually were tossed when I moved out of my parents' house). Now, over 20 years later, the band is still going strong, and I still crank up the radio whenever one of their songs comes on. And seriously, Jon still looks hot after all these years, maybe even better than he did when he was up on my wall. I think it's cool he's a monogamous guy, married to his high school sweetheart and raising his family while still putting out catchy rock 'n roll tunes. You can't really admire too many celebrities' morals anymore, but Jon (so far) and managed to keep it together. Happy birthday Jon! Who were some of your favorite bands growing up?
Labels: crushes, JBJ
posted by Stacy~ at 3/02/2008 08:21:00 AM
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