|
|
Friday, May 30, 2008:
Gettin' together with Lori Foster & Dianne Castell
It's that time of year again, and I'm really, really excited about it. A week from today, on June 6, I will be in Cincinnati, Ohio, spending time with some of my favorite people - online friends I've known for years. JudyF, Laurie, Barbara, Bad Barb, Beth (LadyB), Joni, Chris S, Lisa F, Kaleen, Niny, Deb, Alane (?),Carolyn...gosh I hope I'm not forgetting anyone. And of course there are the wonderful writers who will be attending as well. Here's the latest list from Lori's site: Liz Andrews Camille Anthony Lyn Armstrong D. Reneé Bagby Maya Banks Becky Barker Anya Bast Laura Baumbach Jacki Bentley Heidi Betts Elizabeth Bevarly Toni Blake Tiffany Bryan Stephanie Burke Monica Burns Susanna Carr Tori Carrington Maggie Casper R. Casteel Dianne Castell Billie Warren Chai Sam Cheever Ann Christopher Mary Ann Chulick Jodi Lynn Copeland Diane Craver Paige Cuccaro Sharon Cullen Sierra Dafoe Lauren Dane Bianca D’Arc Gia Dawn L.A. Day Jamie Denton Kate Douglas Sandra Dugas Carol Ann Erhardt Tia Fanning Gail Faulkner Lori Foster Shelley Galloway Renee George Xandra Gregory Heather Grothaus Megan Hart Allison Hatch Julie Heaton Cheryel Hutton Carolyn Ivey Selena Illyria Ann Jacobs Maddie James Marcia James Marteeka Karland Amy Knupp Celia Kyle Ashley Ladd Liana Laverentz Bonnie Rose Leigh Mary Lennox Michelle Levigne Cathy Liggett Cait London Melissa Lopez Dianna Love Donna MacMeans Jeffrey Marks Janie Mason Lena Matthews Janice Maynard Penny McCall Erin McCarthy Sarah McCarty LuAnn McLane Shawn Monique Lucy Monroe Rae Morgan Shelby Morgen Tuesday Morrigan Kelley Nyrae Anne Rainey Tracy L. Ranson Sara Reinke Marie-Nicole Ryan Rhianna Samuels Patricia Sargeant Jan Scarbrough Magdalena Scott Liane Gentry Skye J.M. Snyder Michele Stegman Kay Stockham DeNita Tuttle Leanne Tyler Paige Tyler Eve Vaughn Shiloh Walker Jody Wallace Ann Warner Diane Whiteside Sandy Wickersham-McWhorter J.C. Wilder Gwen Williams Beth Williamson S.J. Willing Donna Wright Tianna Xander
The majority of the proceeds will be donated to the CONDUCTIVE LEARNING CENTER of Greater Cincinnati, a local school specializing in education for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy. 
12 Original Stories by Lori Foster, Erin McCarthyToni Blake, Dianne Castell, Karen Kelley, Rosemary Laurey, Janice Maynard, LuAnn McLane, Lucy Monroe, Patricia Sargeant, Kay Stockham, J.C. Wilder And then there's this wonderful anthology, for a portion of the proceeds will go to support the Battered Women's Shelter of Cincinnati. So who in blogland is attending this event? First time, or a repeat offender?
Can't wait to see you there! Labels: Dianne Castell, Lori Foster, reader/author get-together
posted by Stacy~ at 5/30/2008 05:30:00 AM
|
 
Thursday, May 29, 2008:
I saw this posted at the Goddess blog, and it is inspiring today's blog post. It got me thinking that in certain situations, there are lines that should not be crossed. Basically, there are some questions that should never be asked by the majority of people you know. For example, with my recent promotion, I got a pay raise. Happy happy, joy joy. And I've gotten a lot of wonderful compliments that are certainly threatening to give me a big head *g* But then there are those people who feel comfortable enough to ask me just how much I'm making now. WTF? I mean, how rude is that? What gives anyone the right to ask such a question? Now this may sound strange from someone who works in finance and whose job it is to ask this question of people all the time, but it's not because I'm nosy, or wanting to compare my salary to theirs. It's part of what I do, and after asking it numerous times in the last 4 1/2 years, believe me, I really don't care. But back to the topic at hand. I think this applies to many areas of life. As Julia says, there are rules, and one should not feel they have the right to ask whatever they want to and then get pissy when a person chooses not to disclose that information. Some of the topics I think are off-limits include (and are not limited to): Age. That's a touchy subject, especially if the other person thinks you look older than you are. Weight. I don't know exactly how much I weigh, though I know it's more than I should. Still, muscle weighs more than fat and some people look better heavier. I think as long as someone feels good about themselves, weight is a non-issue, but that doesn't mean people have the right to know. Salary. Most people think they don't make as much as they deserve. I get that. And there are jobs that seem to be paid more than they're worth (does an actor really deserve $20 million per movie???) But finances are a personal matter and not just anyone can be privy to this information, especially other co-workers. Makes me cringe. Medical issues. I used to work in the Benefits Dept of a large company, and it's unbelievable how freely people would discuss others' health issues. It's no one else's business!
I'm sure I've asked really invasive questions myself. Sometimes you feel comfortable with someone, or maybe you're just not thinking when you ask it. We all do stuff like that. And then there are those people who have no problem broadcasting their personal lives to everyone under the sun. Okay, I don't care what kind of fungus you have, or that you kissed your best friend's boyfriend. TMI. Don't need to know, thank you very much. What questions do you find offensive? What won't you ask? Are there some topics you don't think are off-limits? What do you wish someone had never told you? Labels: ramblings
posted by Stacy~ at 5/29/2008 05:06:00 AM
|
Wednesday, May 28, 2008:
1965 Dr. Marsh Tracy, head of an African animal behavior center, captures an oddly placid lion whom he names Clarence. The beast's eyes as it turns out, are crossed. When Dr. Tracy and an anthropologist are kidnapped by poachers, Clarence shows his paws, jaws and claws work superbly. This was the first movie I ever saw on the big-screen. I must have been around 7 or 8 years old. I don't remember much about the movie (I have the worst memory ever) but I do remember how cool it was to sit in the theatre and see everything so huge in front of me, to eat popcorn and a big soda. It was such a thrill. I still really love going to the movies. What was your first movie in the theatre? Do you remember it vividly? Labels: movies
posted by Stacy~ at 5/28/2008 04:47:00 AM
|
Tuesday, May 27, 2008:
"Through the Veil" by Shiloh Walker - review
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Berkley (June 3, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0425222470
ISBN-13: 978-0425222478
Found wandering in a field as a child, Lee Ross was given a name by the state and placed in a foster home--without anyone realizing that she wasn't entirely human. All her life, she's tried to dismiss the odd dreams that have plagued her, dreams of monsters creeping through the night and a man fighting demons by her side. But the bruises she wakes up with are all too real to ignore. . .
Then the man from her dreams appears--in the flesh. His name is Kalen, and he insists that her destiny lies in his world, the world of her dreams. To save their people, he mist convince Lee to give up everything she knows, follow her heart, and cross over into the Under Realm--even though once she does, she'll never be able to return.
I was lucky enough to get an ebook ARC of this story from Shiloh, and I was beyond thrilled. See, there's just something about the way Shi writes that pulls me under, seriously makes me wish I could write a story that captures the reader like she does. I am a huge fan of her Hunter series, as well as many of her other books, and I'm pleased to say that this one ranks right up there at the top. God, just the first chapter of this story made my heart ache so strongly for the characters. You forget that Kalen and Lee aren't real people and you believe in them so completely. Lee keeps dreaming about a man with fierce features, piercing gray eyes and hair and dark as the blackest night who beckons to her, and when she wakes in the morning, the pain and the bruises confuse and scare her, so much she thinks she going crazy. But despite the fear, something inside her recognizes him, this man who haunts her dreams and lives on the pages of the sketchbooks she keeps. Kalen has known Lee forever, and he also knows in his gut she belongs with him, but she only comes out at night, and only when the fighting gets really bad and she's desperately needed. He's frustrated, angry, wondering why she disappears for days, weeks at a time, never staying and joining his people. Kalen feels the emptiness only she can fill, but she refuses to stay. One night he cuts her, regretting the impulse to hurt her but desperately wanting to break through and make her understand she's needed. Kalen's always known it, he just has to make her see that. He's also resigned to the fact that his world is dying, and that he and his people won't be around for much longer, not when the Gates keep opening and sending strong and merciless enemies to kill them all, and feed off their fear. His only hope may be a slight but fierce female who calls to his heart and gives him the smallest hope... As terrified of the dreams as Lee is, she knows the cut on her arm is real, and she knows she can't ignore it any longer. This time when she goes to Kalen, it is while it's daylight, and she knows exactly what she's doing. She also knows there's no going back, especially when she discovers a horrible secret about herself. And when she's with Kalen, the man she loves, she will do anything in her power to protect him, even if it means sacrificing herself.... My thoughts: For me, Shiloh Walker has always had a very distinctive, unique voice, and she knows how to paint a landscape so vividly that you can smell the acrid smoke, feel the velvety leaves, taste the vile healing brew and gag on its bitterness. In "Through the Veil", I felt the hopelessness of Kalen and his people, felt the shadow of death lurking, waiting to claim them all in a brutal war. Even when you know that all will end on a hopeful note, you're brought to the brink of sadness and devastation, praying for a miracle, scared that help won't come in time. You're reminded that good people die, sometimes horribly, and sometimes that miracle just isn't enough. Lee is a fighter, but she's afraid of what's inside herself. She's honest, loving, and protective of the people she cares about, but doesn't understand what her purpose is. Kalen is a warrior through and through, and has no qualms about a woman being in charge, letting him do what he does best. He loves Lee, the young girl who has saved him from death many times over the years, and now the gutsy woman who puts herself in danger to protect him and his people, now her people. I loved Lee's grumpiness, her craving for coffee and her attraction to Kalen. She was brave but afraid, and time and again wanted to turn her back on the war, but she didn't. That's what made her such a fine heroine. She didn't take the easy way out, no matter how tempted, and every thought and action was about saving someone else instead of herself. Kalen was a confident leader, a caring man who fought for what he believed in, but he was tired. Lee took away his exhaustion, gave him something real to live and fight for, and while he could be demanding and stubborn, he valued Lee's opinion and her strength, admired her power and her role in their survival. Together they made a strong and vital unit. Another winner, as far as I'm concerned. Sensual, heart-breaking, gritty, "Through the Veil" is an absorbing story that kept me glued to the screen reading, anxious to find out what happens, and since I got this in ebook format, that's saying something (still don't care for them as much as a "real" book). It's always hard to put a good book down, especially when the characters stay with you and you can't help but wonder what ends up happening to them. I'd gladly re-visit this world again. Shiloh packs a walloping, emotional punch. Rating: ****1/2 out of ***** Labels: reviews, Shiloh Walker
posted by Stacy~ at 5/27/2008 04:36:00 AM
|
Monday, May 26, 2008:
"Superb and Sexy" by Jill Shalvis
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Brava (May 27, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0758221843
ISBN-13: 978-0758221841 When you want to fly the best, you fly Sky High Air. And when you want spectacular adventure and scorching seduction, Jill Shalvis's tantalizing, talented pilots Noah, Shayne, and Brody will get you there-fast, slow, or any way you want it.
BUCKLE UP. IT'S GOING TO BE QUITE A RIDE.
Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated. And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High's gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He's tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it's triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn't even know he had.
For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Yeah, real smooth. She's tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won't let her walk away-especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that's nothing compared to the way she's about to get to know him-intimately, in depth, and over and over again.
Finally. I've been totally crushing on Brody since the very first book, when he and Maddie set the pages on fire with their barely contained attraction, and was incredibly lucky to win an ARC from the lovely ladies over at Book Binge. This was one of my most anticipated stories of 2008, and my girl Jill did not disappoint. You rock, Ms. Shalvis. Maddie loved her life as the kick-ass, rockin' concierge of Sky High Airlines, and she adored the men she worked for, knowing they felt the same way about her. At the controls, Maddie owned the world, and she knew it. If there was any glitch in her life, in was her irritating but oh-so-hot attraction to Brody West, one of the owners and pilots of Sky High and a grumpy bad boy who completely flipped her switch, and drove her absolutely crazy. But now a bigger threat to her existence has been dumped into her lap and she's going to have to walk away from the best job she's ever had, and the hottest guy she's ever known, in order to protect the one person she loves more than anything, her sister Leena. Brody can't believe Maddie is walking away from Sky High and him, Noah and Shayne. Not when they need her, and rely on her amazing concierge skills to keep things running smoothly. Maddie was the heart of the operation, and nothing was the same without her. She had to know how much they all cared about her, and thought of her as part of their rag-tag family. So now he's come to find her and bring her sassy self back home, right where she belongs. But when he arrives at the isolated cabin, he knows right off something's up. Maddie isn't her usual self, in fact she's almost afraid of him, and keeps trying to send him away. But he's not having it. Barging into the cabin, he figures out what the weird deal is: Leena, her identical twin, was pretending to be Maddie in order to get rid of him. And Leena's in trouble. As in "could end up dead" kind of trouble. Turns out Leena is involved in something illegal, and she needs her sister's help. Determined to get involved, Brody tries to take control of the situation, but Maddie is equally determined to leave him out of it and ditches him. Frustrated and confused, he follows her, and finally gets her to see that he's not going anywhere, so she might as well accept his help. Even if it means going to a place Maddie hasn't been to in over 10 years, and facing the past and overcoming the present. Because now Brody has truly seen inside Maddie's heart, and he wants it for his own, and there's no way he can let her go now, especially if it means she could end up hurt. Brody has finally found the one thing that he loves more than flying, and it's the sexy, crazy, loving woman who breaks his heart again and again, and he's willing to risk it all for the chance to be with her, any way he can. My thoughts: Anyone who's read my blog knows how long I've been jonesing for this book, and I know I've whined to Jill at least a hundred times, and, well, it was so worth the wait! I completely loved Maddie; she's super smart, tough, caring, capable, and puts the 3 guys she works for to shame. Plus she's not afraid to show off her feminine side and definitely plays up her assets with her clothes and makeup. She's not perfect, and she's a bit of a snob, but she's rather easy to identify with on an emotional level, and you gotta love a heroine who isn't all about being complete only when she finds a man. She doesn't all of a sudden blossom when she hooks up with Brody - she's been a vivid, intelligent, totally cool woman all along, and she doesn't try to hide it. Maddie also absolutely loves her sister, and would do anything to protect her, and who wouldn't identify with that? Brody is the kinda totally hot bad boy I go for: a bit of a broody mechanic (love those blue-collar boys) with over-long hair, a casual dress code with a penchant for loud rock music (Note to Jill: if you know of any real life Brodys, please send 'em my way. Thanx). I love how Maddie gets him all flustered and unsure of himself, and also turns him on like no other woman around. It's also totally cool that he wants to protect her, but also steps back and lets her do her thing. He totally gets her, accepts her, and it's cool to see how he's not threatened by her aggressive personality. And when they finally get busy, wow, it's scorching HOT! A mere kiss between them is way more incendiary than most the sex scenes in some of the erotic romances I've read, and that's because Jill knows how to totally amp up the tension and the emotion here. So much so that I got a bit teary-eyed at the end, but it was the sappy, sighing kind. Of course I was very sad to see it end, but kudos to Jill for ending the trilogy on a high note, and for giving Brody and Maddie a well-deserved and unforgettable HEA. I loved it. Rating: ****1/2 out of ***** Labels: Jill Shalvis
posted by Stacy~ at 5/26/2008 12:06:00 AM
|
Sunday, May 25, 2008:
A few things... * I got the promotion! On Friday I met with my manager and Human Resources, and the news was well-received *g* I was told I was very professional, well-prepared, gave concise, thorough answers without having to think about my responses. Now this makes me laugh when I think about it because I was so nervous and I don't even remember what I said, other than I thought it was all jibberish. My boss asked me if I thought there was any doubt, and I told him of course there was. See, the decision has to be unanimous by the entire panel of interviewers (there were 4, and almost ended up being 6), so there's always a chance someone might not agree. So while I thought I might have deserved it (yeah, I'm conceited that way) that doesn't mean everyone is as smart as me LOL. Anyway, what a fabulous way to start the long holiday weekend :) ** Dad is doing well, has regained his sense of humor and adding more gray to my mother's hair...nothing new there. And what a huge relief that is to have things back to normal, though he'll be off work for 3 months. It's definitely been a wake-up call and has made me more aware of my own health. It's never too early to start looking for ways to be healthier. I've started exercising more, and it's been helping. ***I finally read the book "Atonement" by Ian McEwan yesterday. I'm glad I saw the movie first, otherwise I don't think I would have stuck with the book. I actually enjoyed it, and now I think I want to re-watch the movie, though the movie was pretty faithful to the book. I'm also glad I waited until I was in the right frame of mind to read it. I feel like it refreshed my brain and satisfied my rare need for a more complex, thought-provoking story. What have you been up to? Labels: ramblings
posted by Stacy~ at 5/25/2008 08:25:00 PM
|
See if this touching story doesn't make you cry. I bawled like a baby when I read it. Please remember all the heroes, past and present, this Memorial weekend, and who they are fighting for. God bless. Labels: heroes
posted by Stacy~ at 5/25/2008 05:36:00 PM
|
Friday, May 23, 2008:
"Indiana Jones and the Cursed Rhinestone Skull or Whatever" (2008) - movie review
In 1957, Indiana Jones is thrust back in action, venturing into the jungles of South America in a race against Soviet agents to find the mystical Crystal Skull. Hated this movie. HATED it. It's tainted the whole legend for me now. (Okay, maybe only a little. The first three rocked). If only I could get those 2 precious hours of time back...sigh... Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 5/23/2008 04:51:00 AM
|
Thursday, May 22, 2008:
I just read a DNF review for a book that was beloved by quite a few people in blogland. I personally enjoyed it myself, though not as much as some people did. After having read the review and noting all the valid arguments the reviewer provided, I realized that she had an interesting point and it actually makes me want to go back and re-read the book and see if it changes the way I feel about it. Maybe that's strange or stupid, but there you go. Nevertheless, it got me thinking, and isn't that a good thing? I've been reviewing the books I read for maybe 3 or 4 years now. When I started reviewing, I'd give a brief re-cap of ths story and what my thoughts were, usually rating it with a grade or stars or something similar. Pretty easy stuff. I might agonize over a review, but for the most part, it wasn't too difficult. Now, a few years later, I've noticed that I've been paying closer attention to reviews done by other readers. Before I would read them just to get a sense of the book, and when I find a reviewer with similar tastes to mine, I tended to make some of my book-buying decisions on their reviews. Now when I read a review, especially a more critical one, I find that it actually changes the way I read books. I've started to notice things that never caught my attention before, or at least never stood out too much. I especially notice this with books I've already read and enjoyed. All of a sudden I can see glaring evidence of a problem or an inconsistency that I was able to let slide. Maybe it's the unlikely way the hero thinks or communicates. For example, the author might have him moping around, wondering whether the heroine is truly his destiny (and if she'll call him). I can't think of any guy that I know who talks like that, but I believe a lot of women, myself included, want men to be more intuitive and sensitive to their needs so to read dialogue where the hero is saying what I think I want to hear never bothered me before. But when I thought more about it, I know that if a guy started talking like that to me in real life, I'd probably think he was a complete wuss. Seriously. Another issue is when it comes to historical romances, and how many of the heroines end up being virgins. Now I admit I actually prefer that the heroine be a virgin in the historicals I read (I know, I know, how archaic of me) but I have slowly started to change my mind about this one. After all, why should the guys have all the fun? And it's totally hypocritical for any heroine who's not a virgin to have had an unsatisfying and/or horrible experience with sex prior to hooking up with our manly and virile hero. Other reviewers really helped me see the light on that one. What do you think: Have reviews opened your mind when it comes to the books you read? Have you changed the way you review because of what other readers think? I'm curious to know your thoughts and whether or not reviewing has impacted your reading experience. ----------------- Also, the Plotmonkeys have a great post up today about thanking our troops. I know I've used this site before myself, and it's always good to be reminded. Go ahead, take a look, send a note; it's completely free. Labels: reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 5/22/2008 05:17:00 AM
|
Wednesday, May 21, 2008:
"Nim's Island" (2008) - movie review
Anything can happen on Nim's Island, a magical place ruled by a young girl's imagination. It is an existence that mirrors that of her favorite literary character, Alex Rover - the world's greatest adventurer. But Alexandra, the author of the Rover books, leads a reclusive life in the big city. When Nim's father goes missing from their island, a twist of fate brings her together with Alexandra. Now they must draw courage from their fictional hero, Alex Rover, and find strength in one another to conquer Nim's Island.
Gerard Butler. That's all I needed to hear before deciding to go see this movie. I had no idea what the movie was about when I agreed to see it, other than who was in it, and I was perfectly fine with that. Gerard plays Jack Rusoe, a scientist who lives on "Nim's Island" with his young daughter Nim. She lost her mother, an oceanographer at a very young age, and is home-schooled by her father. She reads books, and plays with her friends Selkie (a sea lion), Fred (an iguana) and Galileo (a pelican). Her favorite stories are by an explorer named Alex Rover, who tells incredible tales about the many exciting adventures he experiences. Given Nim's imaginative and inquisitive nature, she devours these stories and can't wait to find out what he's up to next. One day Jack decides to go out on a scientific mission at sea, and asks his daughter to come with him. But she feels she's old enough to stay at home and take care of their home and the animals. He promises he'll only be gone for two days, and he'll be in contact with her in case she needs him. But as you can expect, an unexpected storm has Jack lost at sea, and he has no way to contact Nim. Meanwhile, Nim goes about her day, playing with her animal friends and reading her book. She responds to her father's emails, and discovers one from Alex Rover, of all people. Turns out Alex is not the intrepid explorer of Nim's expectations, but rather Alexandria Rover, a neurotic woman afraid to leave her apartment. With an uncooperative muse by the name of Alex Rover taunting her, and who just happens to look a lot like Jack by the way, the author is suffering from writer's block, and needs some research assistance from Nim's father. Nim is thrilled that Alex has contacted her father, and doesn't hesitate to act in his place. But when Jack fails to return home, and the island about to be taken over by an overzealous cruise ship captain, Nim doesn't know what to do. She emails Alexandria, asking for help. Alexandria, who lives halfway around the world in San Francisco, tries to help by calling 911, but her efforts are obviously futile. With the encouragement and challenge from her muse, Alexandria finds the courage to leave her apartment to go and save a little girl who is all alone, and afraid she's lost her father. My thoughts: Cute movie, though you might want to wait til it's out on DVD. Definitely for kids and families. And fans of Gerard Butler, who conveniently finds reason to go shirtless, which is a definite bonus. Nim is a fearless and happy child who is well-loved by her father. She lives on a beautiful island, and has lead an amazing life. If anything is missing, it's contact with other people, especially those her own age, and when she needs help the most, she cannot turn to her father, but must rely on the assistance of a complete stranger. Jodie Foster is very funny as the lonely and stressed out writer afraid of everything, and Gerard does a great job of playing both Nim's science geek father and Alexandria's handsome, fearless adventurer. Abigail Breslin plays Nim, a cheerful, smart young lady who's protective of her island and her animal friends, and of course her father. If she looks familiar, she's been in "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Definitely, Maybe". So yeah I'd recommend it for something to watch with young kids. It was a fun flick.
Rating: **** out of ***** Labels: Gerard Butler, movies
posted by Stacy~ at 5/21/2008 04:52:00 AM
|
Tuesday, May 20, 2008:
Mass Market Paperback: 392 pages
Publisher: Forever (November 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0446618470
ISBN-13: 978-0446618472 THERE COMES A TIME IN A LADY'S LIFE...
Widowed Anna Wren is having a wretched day. After an arrogant male on horseback nearly squashes her, she arrives home to learn that she is in dire financial straits. What is a gently bred lady to do?
WHEN SHE MUST DO THE UNTHINKABLE...
The Earl of Swartingham is in a quandary. Having frightened off two secretaries, Edward de Raaf needs someone who can withstand his bad temper and boorish behavior. Dammit! How hard can it be to find a decent secretary?
AND FIND EMPLOYMENT.
When Anna becomes the earl’s secretary, both their problems are solved. Then she discovers he plans to visit the most notorious brothel in London for his “manly” needs. Well! Anna sees red—and decides to assuage her “womanly” desires . . . with the earl as her unknowing lover.
I know, I waited a long time to read this trilogy, but finally I decided to read it all in one shot. This one was probably my favorite of the three. Widow Anna is in dire need of funds to support herself and her mother-in-law. Discovering the Earl of Swartingham is in need of a secretary has her determined to land the position in his household. Practical and not easily intimidated, she meets with his man of affairs and is accepted for the position, though doesn't meet the irrascible earl right away. By the time they do meet, she's proven herself to be a very efficient secretary, and upon finally being properly introduced to Edward, does not back down from his boorish manners, and instead of being repulsed by his less than handsome looks, she finds the earl to be rather masculine and appealing to her feminine nature. Edward is not pleased to have a lady serve as his secretary, but as he's managed to scare off his previous employees, he doesn't have much of a choice. At first Edward finds Anna to be rather plain and lacking in color, though he's distracted by her generous mouth. The longer he gets to know her, however, the more he notices about her, and the more it appeals to him, though he's loathe to admit he's attracted to her. Off to London to meet with the family of his prospective bride, Edward decides to make the most of this trip and take care of the unsatisfied lust he's feeling for his secretary by visiting a discreet brothel. Anna learns of his intentions, and is unusually upset and angry with the earl. Feeling the same attraction towards her employer, she decides to satisfy her own desires for Edward by becoming the woman he beds without him knowing it is she. But when feelings are engaged, will she ever be able to share her secret with the man she loves, and if he finds out, will he be able to forgive her? My thoughts: Like I said, this one was my favorite story. Very sensual, and definitely full of sexual tension between Anna and Edward. The earl knows he must marry, and has selected an acceptable candidate, but he's drawn to Anna, and enjoys the fact she's not afraid of him, nor is she reluctant to speak her mind. I loved how the more they were around each other, the more attracted they became. I liked their friendship, and respect for each other as well. One thing that keeps me from loving this book completely is Anna's behavior when Edward realizes she is the woman he made passionate love to in London. We had to know that when Edward finds out about Anna's deception that he will feel betrayed and will lash out at her because his feelings have become engaged and he feels like he's been played for a fool by her, but I wasn't expecting Anna to all of sudden to become meek and timid, nor to run from him with her tail between her legs. It just didn't fit with the personality she'd exhibited so far, and I was disappointed in her for this. Eventually they both come to realize that they are truly in love, and their HEA is realized, though it would have been so much more rewarding if Anna had fought for her man from the get-go. Still, this story has much to recommend it, and I was seriously engaged by it from the very beginning. It's definitely worth reading. Rating: ****1/2 out of ***** Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Forever (April 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0446618489
ISBN-13: 978-0446618489 THE ONE THING A LADY MUST NEVER DO Wealthy Lady Georgina Maitland doesn't want a husband, though she could use a good steward to run her estates. One look at Harry Pye, and Georgina knows she's not just dealing with a servant, but a man.
IS FALL IN LOVE... Harry has known many aristocrats—including one particular nobleman who is his sworn enemy. But Harry has never met a beautiful lady so independent, uninhibited, and eager to be in his arms.
WITH HER SERVANT. Still, it's impossible to conduct a discreet liaison when poisoned sheep, murdered villagers, and an enraged magistrate have the county in an uproar. The locals blame Harry for everything. Soon it's all Georgina can do to keep her head above water and Harry's out of the noose...without missing another night of love.
Harry Pye is not part of the aristrocracy, but Georgina doesn't care. He does his job well, and that's all that matters. When the local magistrate, an aristocrat who despises Harry, accuses him of poisoning his sheep and tries to arrest Harry, George refuses to turn him over to the authorities. She believes in the innocence of her steward, even if no one else does. Not only that, George is strongly attracted to the masculine and earthy Harry, and decides she must have him and tries to engage him in a heated affair. But Harry isn't having it. He's too busy trying to prove his innocence and avoiding being dragged to the gallows to indulge the beautiful Georgina, despite the fact he finds her to be quite a tempting morsel. Yet he underestimates the determination and cleverness of his employer, and finds himself succumbing to her wiles even while he knows she will surely be the death of him. To make matters worse, his enemy is more relentless than ever, and Harry realizes his lady love may be in danger. But Harry's greatest downfall may be his own feelings for the irresistible George, who makes him believe that there may actually be such a thing as a happily ever after, if only he'll survive long enough to find out. My thoughts: My second favorite story. Harry doesn't ask for much, just a paying job and a roof over his head. He's good at what he does and he enjoys it, and never once did he think his life would be turned upside down by love. I liked his practical nature, but also his sensual side, and his acceptance of his fate of being seduced by George. I liked how while George could come across as an airhead, she really was very intelligent and intuitive, and used men's narrowmindedness towards women to get her way. I also liked how she didn't shy away from the sexual feelings Harry ignites in her, and is very eager to explore them and see where it leads. As someone who loves animals, anything involving an animal dying outside of natural causes bothers me, so there were a few instances I didn't care to read about. I also thought Harry's enemy, the magistrate, was incredibly cruel, even to his own children, and made a worthy villain, though he was incredibly obsessed with getting the justice he thought he was due. You just felt he couldn't be convinced of Harry's innocence, no matter what proof he was presented with. I really liked Harry and George together, thought her sometimes her roundabout common sense and cheer did wonders for the overly serious Harry. And of course there's that lovely revelation when he realizes that George is "his lady" and nothing will do but to make her his wife, not out of any sense of duty, but because he loves the stubborn woman. Love that. Rating: **** out of ***** Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Forever (September 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 044640053X
ISBN-13: 978-0446400534 WHEN THE DEVIL MEETS AN ANGEL Country bred Lucy Craddock-Hayes is content with her quiet life. Until the day she trips over an unconscious man—a naked unconscious an—and loses her innocence forever.
HE CAN TAKE HER TO HEAVEN Viscount Simon Iddesleigh was nearly beaten to death by his enemies. Now he’s hell-bent on vengeance. But as Lucy nurses him back to health, her honesty startles his jaded sensibilities—even as it ignites a desire that threatens to consume them both.
OR TO HELL Charmed by Simon’s sly wit, urbane manners, and even his red-heeled shoes, Lucy falls hard and fast for him. Yet as his honor keeps him from ravishing her, his revenge sends his attackers to her door. As Simon wages war on his foes, Lucy wages her own war for his soul using the only weapon she has—her love…
Lucy believes the man in the ditch is dead when she first spots him, only to discover he's actually been beaten very badly. Unable to just leave him there, he's brought back to her home to heal. Simon is quite taken with "his angel" and is bemused that she does not immediately swoon over him as any young lady of marriage age would. But that's just as well, as he must concentrate on getting better and not on seducing a young maiden soon to be engaged to the proper man to be her husband. Besides, Simon is obsessed with avenging the death of his older brother, and nothing will get in the way of him exacting his revenge, not even the lovely Lucy who tempts him to latch on to something clean and pure. Lucy is fascinated by Simon, who is unlike any other man of her acquaintance. How can marriage to a country vicar ever satisfy her now when she's gotten a taste of grander things? Not one to wear her heart on her sleeve, she nevertheless falls for Simon, but accepts he will soon leave her home and walk out of her life for good, and her life will never be the same. Simon does indeed walk away from his angel, and continues on his destructive path. He's so tired, and one thinks he almost wishes he were the one to meet his Maker instead of his enemies. His heart is dead, and once he choose his path he knew there was no turning back. But maybe the love of a good woman will cleanse his soul, and give him a peace he's never dreamed of. My thoughts: Much, much darker than the previous books, and it felt so different. In book one, we learn that Edward, Harry and Simon are all friends who enjoy coffee together at a coffeehouse for men who have a fascination for agriculture, and as the trilogy progresses, it is easy to match Edward and Harry as being of a similar mind and forming a life-long friendship. Simon comes across as a man more vain, what with his red pumps and wigs, and although he's an aristocrat like Edward, he just doesn't seem to mesh with the other two men. It's difficult to explain, but I wasn't as convinced of his role as friend to Harry and Edward. Maybe that's just me.
Simon comes across as a rather mocking, carefree lord, but he's also bitter, and determined to exact his revenge in a most violent and bloody way. I understood his need for Lucy, who as his angel gives him a chance at redemption, but there were moments I felt he was lost to the dark side and even Lucy wouldn't be able to bring him back. There was a hopelessness to Simon that I couldn't shake, even when there comes a moment when he does do the right thing. This story left me a little unsettled. I think if he didn't love and need Lucy as much as he did I probably wouldn't have had much of a hope for Simon. The ending is optimistic, and Simon begins to come to terms with his brother's death and learns to make peace with it, and looks forward to forging a good life with his angel. That made up for a lot, and while it wasn't my favorite, I can still say I enjoyed a lot of the story and it came to a satisfying conclusion.
Rating: **** out of ***** Labels: Elizabeth Hoyt
posted by Stacy~ at 5/20/2008 05:48:00 AM
|
Monday, May 19, 2008:
Today my dad is going to have quadruple bypass surgery, which, from all accounts should go smoothly. He was supposed to have it on Friday, but things didn't go as planned, naturally, so now it's today. One good thing, my mom isn't panicking, which says a lot, so I should feel pretty reassured. But it's my dad, and this is really the first serious health issue that's ever come up for him. He's 65, has a horrible diet despite my mother's rantings and her cooking, and doesn't really exercise unless their dog Chewy, a half Rottweiler, half German Shepherd drags him out of the house, so he should have seen this coming. Anyway, so at 11am CST today, he'll be wheeled into surgery. Needless to say, I'll be a little distracted at work today. Tomorrow, I have a job interview. Technically it's for a job I already do, at least that's what my boss tells me, but now I should get the title, and the salary, for it. I hate interviews. Who doesn't? There will be a panel of about 6 people, so I'm trying not to freak out about that. I knew I wasn't going to prepare all weekend, so tonight I'll cram in some studying. That seems to work better for me during times ike this. And there is always the chance I won't get the promotion, so I'm being realistic about that. The cool thing is if I don't get it, I can always self-nominate again next month. But I really hope to get it over with tomorrow. Geez, I can't wait til it's Wednesday.... So that's what's going on with me. How are things in your world? Update: my dad made it through surgery just fine, and it took less time than the doctors expected. He can drive as soon as the pain meds wear off, then he can begin to really drive my mother crazy. And vice versa. Life is good. Thank you all for your your prayers and caring thoughts. They helped tremendously :) Labels: ramblings
posted by Stacy~ at 5/19/2008 05:11:00 AM
|
Sunday, May 18, 2008:
"Walk the Line" (2005) - movie review
In 1955, a tough, skinny guitar-slinger who called himself J.R. Cash walked into the soon-to-be-famous Sun Studios in Memphis. It was a moment that would have an indelible effect on American culture. With his driving freight-train chords, steel-eyed intensity and a voice as deep and black as night, Cash sang blistering songs of heartache and survival that were gutsy, full of real life and unlike anything heard before. That day kicked off the electrifying early career of Johnny Cash. As he pioneered a fiercely original sound that blazed a trail for rock, country, punk, folk and rap stars to come, Cash began a rough-and-tumble journey of personal transformation. In the most volatile period of his life, he evolved from a self-destructive pop star into the iconic "Man in Black" facing down his demons, fighting for the love that would raise him up, and learning how to walk the razor-thin line between destruction and redemption. I grew up listening to Johnny Cash; both my parents loved that 70's and older country music, so it was a staple in our house, whether we were in the car or in the living room during dinner. I admit I didn't appreciate my parents' music much growing up. It wasn't until years later I began to really listen to it and realize how much I actually liked it. Still do. I'm a fan of both Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon, so of course I wanted to see this movie. They are good together, and you can see the immediate chemistry between them very easily. I remember Johnny way more than I do June, but I think I got a good feel for their relationship and romance over course of several years. We see John (JR) as a young boy working and fishing with his older brother, who plans to be a preacher one day, but dies in a tragic accident at an early age. This loss has a huge impact on Johnny's life, especially as he feels guilty for his brother's death, and is made to feel responsible for it. When he gets older, Johnny goes into the military and is stationed in Germany. He misses his girlfriend Vivian, and proposes to her (he's 22). They get married when he returns to Memphis and John tries to work as a salesman, but he's got music stirring too strongly in his blood. This doesn't sit well with his wife, who doesn't plan to be poor. One day John comes across Sam Phillips and his studio. Getting together the two buddies he plays with, John gets an audition at Sun Records and they give a lackluster performance of a well-known song that doesn't impress Mr. Phillips. He wants something real, something from the gut. He's reluctant, but John sings a song he's been writing, and you just know that this is "it". A song John has lived and felt. Things happen pretty fast, and soon John and his band are playing live. He meets an early inspiration, June Cash, whom he's quite taken with, and plays venues with acts like Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley. He starts taking drugs early on, and before too long there were other women. Vivian tells John, while pregnant with their second child, that she will never divorce him. Vivian, portrayed by the radiant Ginnifer Godwin, comes across as being cold and selfish, but at the same time, she's also a Christian woman trying to keep her family together as best as she can without much help from her husband. Johnny spends more time with June, as they are all on tour together, and eventually things heat up between them, but June later marries someone else and John turns more and more to pills. I didn't realize Cash had a drug addiction when he was so young, but he apparently had some demons, as well as love for a woman other than his wife. It isn't until a few years later that John finally divorces Vivian, or rather she leaves him because of his drug problems, and he's more addicted than ever, even getting himself arrested, yet still he doesn't stop. He lies to his family and even to June, saying he's off the pills. But with the help of June and her family, John slowly overcomes his addiction, and he starts singing again, including an incredible performance at Folsom prison. He starts to re-build his life, accepting God into it and being a man worthy of his June. I enjoyed this movie very much, and just loved Joaquin and Reese together. They both lit up the screen. Of course anything based on actual events must be taken with a grain of salt, as there are always more than one or two sides to a story, and I'm sure not all of the people involved would agree with the outcome, especially John's and June's children from their different marriages. I read that John and June approved of the casting of Joaquin and Reese, but both singers passed away in 2003, before the finished product. Their's was an incredible love story, and now they are together forever. If you haven't seen the movie, I definitely recommend it. The music is incredible, and Joaquin sounds eerily like Cash at times. It spans from 1952 - 1968, so there are several decades after that are missing, but it tells the beginning of an amazing career and marriage. It's over 2 hours long, but they pack a lot into it, and the time just flew. Now that's the sign of a good movie. Rating: **** 1/2 out of ***** Labels: movies, reviews
posted by Stacy~ at 5/18/2008 09:55:00 AM
|
Friday, May 16, 2008:
A classic romance I've never read: "Flowers From the Storm"
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Pub. Date: October 1992 ISBN-13: 9780380761326The Duke of Jervaulx was brilliant and dangerous. Considered dissolute, reckless, and extravagant, he was transparently referred to as the 'D of J' in scandal sheets, where he and his various exploits featured with frequency. But sometimes the most womanising rake can be irresistible, and even his most casual attentions fascinated the sheltered Maddy Timms, quiet daughter of a simple mathematician. By now it's pretty obvious by now that my reading resume has several obvious gaps in it. (I guess if I didn't spend so much time reading the really naughty stuff I'd have a more well-rounded education). So yesterday I was looking at my Amazon recommendations and came across this little gem. I've only read one Laura Kinsdale book in my time, and that would be "For My Lady's Heart". It was okay, but I remember that I couldn't wait to finish the book; I just wanted it to be over. Definitely not a re-read. And not the kind of reaction I like to have with my books. Anyway, this book came to my attention, and the synopsis sounded really interesting to me. I even read some of the Amazon reviews (going back to a time before drama and controversy) and found a few that were very well written and piqued my curiosity even further. So now I'm throwing it out there and asking what readers in blogland think of this book and whether it is worth my time. Is "Flowers From the Storm" worth my time? Labels: Flowers From the Storm, Laura Kinsdale
posted by Stacy~ at 5/16/2008 05:24:00 AM
|
Wednesday, May 14, 2008:
There's a lot of DIK talk in blogland these days (for those who don't know, or who just have dirty minds, those are Desert Island Keepers). The buzz has gone from books to one of my favorite topics - the hot men. And with all this talk of favorite, to-die-for heroes, and it got me thinking: What heroe(s) do you just not get?
Maybe you can't figure out why tons of women are willing to forgive Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent, after the horrible way he treated Lillian in "It Happened One Spring". Or maybe you believe Dain from "Lord of Scoundrels" is just a jackass and doesn't deserve Jessica in any way, shape,or form. Could it be Roarke sets your teeth on edge (and not in a good way), or Ranger should just leave Stephanie the hell alone already. I'm curious to know which heroes leave you cold while they definitely float someone else's boat. What heroes leave you baffled at their appeal? Labels: heroes
posted by Stacy~ at 5/14/2008 06:21:00 PM
|
Tuesday, May 13, 2008:
"Rainfall" by Barry Eisler (2003) - review
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Signet (July 1, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 045120915X
ISBN-13: 978-0451209153 John Rain kills people. For a living. His specialty: making it seem like death by natural causes. But he won't take out just anyone. The job must be an exclusive. The target must be a principal player. And he'll never murder a woman. Half American, half Japanese, but one of place in both worlds, Rain bases his operation in Tokyo, where even a crowded subway car is filled with opportunities -- like slipping a pacemaker-jamming device onto a victim. John Rain may not be a good man, but he's good at what he does. Reliably discreet, coldly efficient, Rain is the best hitman money can buy...
Until he falls for the beautiful daughter of his last kill.
Knowing I needed something different to read, I picked up this book to read on the plane for my trip this past weekend. See, I tend not to read romance in public, partly because I'm easily distracted and like to people-watch, but mostly because I really would rather not read the naughty bits while sitting so close to complete strangers. None of them are ever cute anyway, so what's the point, really. So I chose this book, having been "friended" by the author some time ago at myspace, but never having read his books. I scanned the back cover and was intrigued by the premise, though not quite 100% sure it would be my thing. Still, I thought it was worth trying. Well, let's just say I needed have worred. When we first meet John Rain, he is working with a partner on a kill, only Harry has no idea what John's actual intentions are, and thinks they are only following the man in question, not chasing him to his death. Just like in the past, through a discreet channel John has been offered this job, and having gone over the details, accepts the assignment. John excels at creating a death that looks natural, and this time is no exception. Having managed to successfully "kill" his target by making it look like a heart attack, he quickly leaves the scene, vanishing like the mist. Though something happens to make him pause. Still, it's not smart to hang around, so he ponders the situation far from the scene. Later, John visits an old friend at a favorite jazz club called Alfie's, and is persuaded to meet the beautiful jazz pianist playing that night. Rain is immediately drawn to her, but tries to resist it. A man like him is only ever to experience temporary passion, and he senses Midori is so much more than a one-night stand. To complicate matters, he learns that she is the daughter of the man he recently killed, which makes him even more determined to keep his distance. Then he gets a phone call asking him if he'd like to take another assignment. This time he's asked to do something he's always refused to do: kill a woman. The target: Midori. He's given 48 hours to make a decision, otherwise someone else will be given the job. Knowing that he should stay away from her and not get involved, he cannot let anything happen to her, and sets out to protect her as best he can without her knowing. But soon that becomes impossible when she is discovered in her apartment by some men who think she has something they want. He has to tell her what's going on. This time he also involves Harry. Since he's known him, John has tried to protect Harry as much as possible, preferring to utilize him more for his computer skills than anything else. He's your typical computer geek, a bit in awe of John, somewhat naive, but not as much as John thinks he is. Now John has to come somewhat clean with Harry, and learns that this young man trusts him, so he decides to trust him back. His life may depend on it,. Men from John's past and present are involved in trying to get to Midori, and it leaves a bitter taste in his mouth, knowing he's been a pawn for quite some time. Well, John's not going to take it anymore... My thoughts: I enjoyed this book very, very much. I felt like I got a good taste of Tokyo, from the harried businessmen to the tired shopkeepers, to the jazz clubs and the trendy bars. To me it was a fascinating look into a different country, and I loved it. I believe Barry Eisler has been to Japan many times, and uses his travel experiences to create a believable setting. I also liked John Rain, despite the fact he's a paid killer. There's something sad about him, maybe his awareness that there's no place in the world for people like him, after all he's seen and done. Maybe it's his heritage, being half Japanese, half American, not fitting into either too comfortably. Or it could be a multitude of things combined that make him easy to empathize with. His tentative friendship with Harry, possibly. Maybe it's the romantic in me that bleeds for him, thinking he cannot have a relationship with a woman. He really doesn't come across as a horrible person, though he's done really horrific things in his life. I was impressed that Midori was not the stereotypical heroine you might sometimes find in a book written by a man. Yes she was beautiful, but she was also intelligent and talented and not just a token piece of fluff here. She was not a crazed sex bunny or an airhead, which was a huge relief. I could feel her passion for jazz and for playing the piano. The writing of the scenes where she was playing were so amazing I felt that I was there in the club listening to her play. There were also very interesting details about Japanese government that when I googled them were actually true, which I found fascinating. I loved the combination of actual events with this fictional character. It truly added flavor to the story. This is book #1 in the Rain series, and so far I think there have been 7 books released in all. So far, I plan on reading each and every one of them. Rating: **** out of ***** Labels: Barry Eisler
posted by Stacy~ at 5/13/2008 05:59:00 AM
|
Monday, May 12, 2008:
Sorry kids, got no pictures as my camera died on me Saturday morning, despite feeding it new batteries before we left. Will steal some (with permission) from another Bella soon. Probably for the best, I'm not too proficient with a camera. Wow, what a weekend! It was so much fun spending time with a group of women I've met online. That was definitely the best part of the weekend...well, that and the food. The Greek diner, Maggiano's, the big breakfast, it was all good. Very, very good. Friday night we went to the Greek diner and then headed over to Kati's house to talk and share some books. I was good - only took 2! - and just sat and enjoyed the conversation. I am the quiet one of the group, but I hope the ladies didn't think that meant I wasn't having a good time, because I thought it was wonderful. It's just my way, and I love listening to these passionate conversations, especially when they are about books. Saturday morning we had a big breakfast, and I cannot believe I've never had caramel french toast before. It was sooo yummy. We met up with one of the Bellas, Monica, and after fortifying ourselves, caught the train to head downtown. We started out at the Washington Monument, and I thank Rach for being full of useful (not useless) information. We kept walking and saw a group of Canadian soldiers (and their forearms). The uniform has never done anything for me, but man, I have to admit they were built, and looked very capable...of many things. After enjoying that view, we made our way down to the World War 2 Memorial, which was very touching. One thing that really got to me was how many young people (teenagers) would go up to the veterans and thanking them for serving. It was just very moving, and reading the engravings really hit home as to how much we have to be thankful for. Next we went to take pictures of the Lincoln Memorial, definitely a recognizable monument from many movies I've seen. Throughout our little outing we caught many glimpses of the White House, though no one was home, what with Jenna Bush getting married on Saturday. By this time we were hungry again, so we stopped for a quick bite to eat. Isn't it nice to be around people who constantly think of food? I think it is. There was no going hungry on this vacation. Loved that. Next we decided we wanted to see the National Cathedral, which was just astounding. I am not a religious person, nor was I raised with any religious education - my family didn't go to church - but I am spiritual and you can't help but feel a reverence for the beauty and peace of such an amazing place. The stained glass windows were incredibly gorgeous and vibrant, and the stone carvings and intricate detail were incredible. It was so beautiful. Did not see the carving of Darth Vader though, but that's okay. By this time the Bellas were exhausted. We headed back, after waiting about 45 minutes for a bus, then went back to the hotel to crash and get ready for dinner, where more fun was to be had. Maggiano's is one of my favorite restaurants as I've never had a bad meal there, and this was no exception. We did family style, which if you love to eat is my idea of heaven. Appetizers, pasta, entree, dessert. It was all delicious, and the food never stopped coming. Our server was a good-looking and outgoing man with a Jamaican(?) accent by the name of Angus, and he really enhanced our dining experience in a variety of ways. Oh, and more books were involved, as many brought their keepers to share. Me I should not go out in public, or at the very least have a checklist of things to doublecheck before leaving the house. I left my "Kingdom of Dreams" and "The Spymaster's Lady" at home. I need to stop putting books in Borders bags because I grabbed the wrong bag. So if any of the Bellas would like one of these books, please let me know. Whoever responds first will get that book. Sunday it was time to leave. I was originally scheduled for a 2:35 flight but was encouraged to go standby on a 12:30 flight, but I felt bad for abandoning Julie so soon. (Jules, I'm glad you made it home all right, sweetie). I did make the earlier flight, which was a relief, and it was one of the more turbulent flights I've been on. It wasn't horrible, but it was very shaky, especially landing. You have to thank the pilots for a job very well done after that type of landing, that is for sure. It was sad to have the weekend come to an end, but at the same time it was also the beginning of many good times to come. You just never know what the Bellas might get themselves into. I hope to be there for every single moment :) Labels: Bellas, D.C.
posted by Stacy~ at 5/12/2008 08:58:00 AM
|
Thursday, May 08, 2008:
I'll be up early tomorrow morning to catch a plane to D.C., and I am so looking forward to spending time with other romance readers. It's a small group, less than 10 of us, but I think that's just the right size. Let's us spend more time really talking about our favorite books, and catching up on everyone's life. I've known most of the group for over 2 years now, and I cannot wait to meet them in person. Y'all have a wonderful weekend, and I'll be making the rounds again soon :) Labels: vacation
posted by Stacy~ at 5/08/2008 06:20:00 PM
|
Tuesday, May 06, 2008:
Blogging? Can't right now, I'm reading...
It's true, blog burn-out has set in, and it shows. I just haven't had the heart to blog lately anyway. I'd rather be outside right now in the gorgeous 70+ degree weather we've been having, or at the very least, reading. So, I will most likely be M.I.A. for the next several days. Friday I leave for D.C. to meet up with some of my favorite online friends for the weekend, and hopefully I'll be back with lots of pictures and stories to share. I am so looking forward to this, having known many of them for at least 2 years. What have you been up to? Planning on meeting any online friends anytime this year? Labels: blogging, ramblings
posted by Stacy~ at 5/06/2008 05:02:00 AM
|
Monday, May 05, 2008:
Paperback: 312 pages
Publisher: Samhain Publishing (April 29, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599987619
ISBN-13: 978-1599987613 Talk about a compromising situation! A storm of political intrigue, murderous mayhem and sexual hungers is brewing on planet Regelence. Swarthy Intergalactic Navy Captain Nathaniel Hawkins ran from a past he had no intention of ever reliving. But when his Admiral asks him to use his peerage, as an earl and the heir to a dukedom, to investigate a missing weapons stash, hes forced to do just that. As if being undercover on a Regency planet where the young men are supposed to remain pure until marriage isnt bad enough, Nate finds himself attracted to the kings unmarried son.
All Prince Aiden Townsend has ever wanted was to be an artist. He has no interest in a marriage of political fortune or becoming a societal paragon. Until he lands in the arms of the mysterious Earl of Deverell. One look at Nates handsome face has Aiden reconsidering his future. Not only does Nate make a virile subject for Aidens art, but the great war hero awakens feelings in Aiden he has never felt, feelings he can't ignore.
After a momentous dance at a season ball, Aiden and Nate find themselves exchanging important information and working closely together. They have to fight their growing attraction long enough to find out who stole the weapons and keep themselves from a compromising situation and certain scandal.
Warning, this title contains the following: explicit sex, graphic language, violence, hot nekkid man-love. I saw quite a bit of buzz over this book in blogland, and thought what the hell, I've read and enjoyed man-love stories before, so I ordered it (though I go more for it when two totally hetero guys are lusting after each other, but that's just me). It was definitely an interesting read. Older, masculine, virile Captain Nate is sent to Regelence, a planet when young, unmarried and titled men are treated like coveted prizes and must be protected from scandalous encounters or end up ruined. It's a twist on our beloved historicals, where young women are the ones whose virginity is valued at all cost. Anyway, Nate is there on a mission, and though he's drawn to the young, artistic Aiden, he has a job to do, and has no interest in marriage whatsoever. Besides, he has nothing to offer Aiden, certainly not a stable and comfortable life. But Nate is a man with strong appetites, and the fantasies he has about Aiden get more insistent the longer he's around the young prince. Nate is tempted beyond endurance, and must eventually make a choice, one that will change his life forever. My thoughts: Definitely an erotically hot book. But my personal preference when I read a m/m romance is that both men are equally masculine and alpha, so I wasn't completely drawn into this story with one of the characters, Aiden, playing the more effeminate and submissive role. It's not that I didn't like him, it's just that I have a difficult time relating to him or finding him attractive. If Aiden was just as virile and dominating as Nate, I would have loved it. Again, that's just me. I did enjoy the story, was intrigued by the fact that same-sex marriages were not only accepted but also the norm on Regelence. I was definitely drawn to Nate, who was a very earthy and forceful character, and very sexual. It wasn't a story filled with one sex act after another, there was actually a plot, and that definitely made it a better story, and made the scenes between Nate and Aiden crackle with tension. As much as I enjoyed it, I don't know that I would pick up another book by this author. Much like I'm not into BDSM storylines, I'm not into m/m stories where there is one character considerably more dominant than the other. Just doesn't flip my switch, romantically or sexually, in my books. It's still a good story, well told with possibility for sequels, it's just not my thing. And it's my perogative to change my mind later. Rating: ***1/2 out of ***** Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Avon Red (April 22, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0061283975
ISBN-13: 978-0061283970 Prim, headstrong, and beautiful Penelope is determined to expose the licentious affairs of the ton's randiest rakes. Now one of their powerful number—the unrepentant libertine Jeremy Vaughn, Duke of Kilgrath—has been selected to put an end to the prudish lady's interference. Jeremy's plan is devilishly clever: He will join Penelope's war against immorality, fighting passionately by her side, all the while showering her with anonymous erotic missives designed to titillate even the coldest, most unwilling maid. He will break down her defenses and inflame her repressed desires by escorting her (in the interests of their "noble campaign") to London's most notorious pleasure palaces. And he will visit her boudoir—masked—during the night to school her in the deliciously sinful arts she wishes to abolish. Then he will expose her hypocrisy to the world.
But the handsome rogue's scheme is doomed to go awry, even as the lovely Penelope sheds her every inhibition and freely gives in to his every whim. For in this sensuous game of hearts, it's the seducer who becomes seduced . . .
This book is the 2nd in a series by Jess Michaels, the previous being "Everything Forbidden" which I'd reviewed. At the ending of that book, Miranda's sister Penelope was engaged to be married to a man she didn't love, and she wasn't very happy with her sister Miranda because she believed she'd sold herself for the good of the family, and that just didn't sit well with Penelope.
Now, two year later, Penelope is a widow and the chosen leader of a crusade against immoral and deviant behavior in society. Wives and mistresses are up in arms, indignant over the men the men in their lives are treating them so callously, and Penelope finds herself to be on the receiving end of both praise and strong criticism. The men especially are fed up with her, and one man, Jeremy Vaughn, has decided to be the one to bring the prim and proper lady to her knees. His plan is simple: he will pretend to befriend her, all the while using his considerable charm and mutual attraction to seduce the lovely Penelope into declaring defeat in her battle against sensual pleasures. Of course the poor man never expects to find his heart engaged by this sad and passionate woman.
My thoughts:
This book answers many of the questions I had after I read the first story, and continues in the same emotional and sensual style as "Everything Forbidden". Penelope has never known pleasure, but keep down she's tempted by it, and by Jeremy, Duke of Kilgrath, though she knows he is the exact type of man she is fighting against. When he offers friendship and the desire to turn over a new leaf, she's suspicious, but also intrigued. I sympathized with her for being drawn into a cause that wasn't one of her making, but one she took on just the same. She didn't want women to be treated poorly by their husbands and protectors, and felt that many of them were.
This book was wonderfully sensual, drawing out the sexual tension between Penelope and Jeremy slowly and steadily all while letting them get to know each other. Penelope turned to Jeremy when she needed a confidante to discuss her most private thoughts, and he in turn got to see who the real woman was behind all her crusading. She was not a dried-up, harsh and cruel person, just one who's never experienced great passion or pleasure. Watching as they fell in love with each other was just delicious. I can't help it, I was in a sappy mood and this book totally worked for me. I'm definitely a fan of this author.
Rating: ****1/2 out of *****
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Kensington (August 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0758214073
ISBN-13: 978-0758214072
RESCUE ME...
Journalist Jenny Yuen lands a very steamy assignment: cover a firefighter calendar competition with some of the hunkiest half-naked heroes ever. Her personal favorite? Mr. February. Also known as Scott. Also known as hot...
Read all about it: the muscular, sexy rookie is the man of Jenny's dreams - her wildest dreams. She's up for a wickedly sensual game if they play by their very own set of rules: No taboos. No holding back. No commitment. But the desire they feel is impossible to control...and even harder to resist...
I'd read the first book, "Champagne Rules" ages ago, and have had this book on my tbr pile for quite some time. The Aphrodisia line is hit or miss with me, sometimes trying to be too sexual and shocking to be interesting, so I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I was in the mood to read it.
Jenny Yuen is a young journalist who still lives at home with her very old-fashioned Chinese family. Despite that, she manages to have a pretty wild sex life, finding herself attracted to non-Chinese men that her family would never approve of. This leads her to lie to her family a lot in order to keep the peace. Keeping her sane are her three best friends. Together they make up the Awesome Foursome, all from different walks of life but who've found strong friendships with each other.
Jenny first meets Scott Jackman as he competes in a contest to be selected as part of a firefighter calendar. His incredibly sexy dance definitely works big-time for Jenny, and though he's the type of guy who goes for the usual busty, blonde type, Jenny knows she's got a secret weapon that gets 'em everytime. Sure enough, Scott can't ignore the confident, sexy Jenny, and soon the two of them are engaged in a heated affair, driven to fulfull their endless supply of sexual fantasies. Jenny knows there can never be anything more between them, even though Scott starts to have stronger feelings for her, and keeps a firm distance from him. Things start to get complicated when Jenny sees sides of Scott that draw her to him emotionally, and this bothers her because she knows that her family will never accept a non-Chinese man into the family. Can there ever be anything more between them?
My thoughts:
Wow, I really liked this one. Jenny was a fun, spunky heroine. I thought it was great that she reveled in her femininity and always wore pink, but didn't get all giggly and helpless in front of Scott. She was very much an independent woman, but one who didn't hide from her physical attributes but rather played up to them with pride. I also liked how respectful she was towards her family, even if she didn't agree with many of their beliefs. The lying was a bit hard to take, though I could see how she felt justified. The worst part was when it ended up hurting Scott, a totally hot guy who had way more depth than she originally gave him credit for. He revealed himself to her slowly, unintentionally, and whether she liked it or not, Jenny fell in love.
I was interested through the whole book, and read it in less than a day. It was a great story, the sex was hot and the fantasies were fun and sexy, and now I want to read Ann's and Rina's stories. Great end to a reading weekend.
Rating: **** 1/2 out of ***** Labels: J L Langley, Jess Michaels, Susan Lyons
posted by Stacy~ at 5/05/2008 05:18:00 AM
|
Friday, May 02, 2008:
Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Bantam (October 28, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0553592009
ISBN-13: 978-0553592009 Kissed by a phantom at midnight, she had no choice but to surrender... When Dr. Marshall Devlin spotted Leila Hunt alone on the dance floor, he yearned to charm the violet-eyed Cinderella into his arms, but how could he court the lady when they fought over everything, and always had? Then the clock struck twelve, and Leila was possessed by the passion of a familiar stranger. He’d captured her lips -- and her soul -- in a moment of magic, but could she learn to love the man behind the mask?
In a debut that celebrates the delights and disasters of falling in love with the boy next door, Suzanne Brockmann wins every heart! He’d teased and tormented her since childhood, hidden his white-hot desire for the woman she’d become, but once a fleeting embrace threatened to reveal his secret, could he make her his forever?
In blogland, people like KristieJ and Katie(babs), Sula and Kati are discussing their DIKs (desert island keepers), and though I haven't completed my list, this one would definitely have to be on it. I know I've blogged about it before, but since it's being re-released in October with a gorgeous new cover, I felt like talking about it again, since it's one of my all-time favorites.
I discovered Suzanne Brockmann over 10 years ago (May 1996), and this was the book that started it all. It might not seem like much when compared to her Team 16 hardcovers, but back then, this book totally did it for me. I am a huge sucker for those love/hate relationships, where underneath it all the hero and heroine are seething with unresolved lust for each other. I didn't care much for a British accent until Suz created a hero with a secret earthy passion for his best friend's sister, and then whoa, it was just the hottest thing going on. I wanted Marshall Devlin, and badly. The thing about Suz is that she creates these incredibly emotional stories, and I felt that right away when I read this book. No other contemporary author, with the possible exception of LaVyrle Spencer, could control me and my feelings so strongly. My heart would pound, or melt, or ache, and my body would go hot all over with the vivid imagery of Marshall's unrequited feelings. Suz got more of a physical and emotional response out of me than any erotic romance I've ever read. When I pick up one of her books, I am right there, in the story, living her words. I've been a die-hard fan ever since, even if I've not loved every single book. Suz can still wring out more feeling out of me with a mediocre book than many other authors could with a great book, and that is why I will still buy anything she writes, even in hardcover. And because of that, I definitely plan on buying a copy of "Kiss and Tell" when it is released in October, no matter what. This book can still get to me after all these years, and as long as that happens, it will forever remain on my keeper shelf. What was your first book by a favorite author, and how does it rank compared to their other work? Labels: Brockmann, keepers
posted by Stacy~ at 5/02/2008 05:17:00 AM
|
|
|
