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Saturday, November 27, 2010:
Beg Me by Shiloh Walker (2010) - review

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Beg me…there had been a time when those words made her burn with desire. But now, there was only fear.

Once, Tania Sinclair’s life was almost perfect…oh, it had its ups and downs but she was happily married to a guy that adored her, one who had no problem indulging every kinky fantasy she ever had. But a couple of tragedies later, she’s barely holding it together. A car accident took away her husband, and an attack from somebody she should have been able to trust has shaken not only her confidence, but it’s also stripped away her fantasies and even made it painful to look back on her memories of her husband without fear.

Two years after her attack, Tania is determined to take her life back and the first step is taking back herself…her fantasies, her dreams, her memories. There’s only one person she can trust to do it, too. One person she wants enough…Drake Bennett, her husband’s best friend.

Falling for your best friend’s wife—never smart. Drake’s watched Tania quietly for years, watched her…wanted her, knowing he’d never have her. First, she was taken. And then, that night two years ago—a night that still scars her, a night that’s left bruises on her that still haven’t healed. He does what he can, though, because he loves her too much not to. He’s her friend, there when she needs him.

And now she needs him. She’s asked him for a favor…one that just about blows his mind…

Warning: This book involves light bondage play, rape fantasy & role-playing. The acts between the hero & heroine are consensual, but they may not be ideal for all readers…

Despite my pestering of her, Shiloh is always very good to me and I got this eARC of another of her amazing stories because she knows how to keep me happy. And it's absolutely no burden at all to review one of her books. It's definitely not a chore for me. It's actually lots of fun trying to find new and interesting ways to gush *g*

Drake's been in love with his best friend's wife for a long time, way back when they were married and Kyle was still alive, but his buddy is gone now, and it's all Drake can do to sit by and watch as Tania faces another anniversary of her husband's death. But she's missing Kyle, so how can Drake ever reveal what's in his heart to her?

Tanis is barely holding on by a thread, and each year it gets worse. She's not moving on, and the fear is just as great as it ever was. She needs to find a way to work through it, and she decides the best way is get back up on that proverbial horse and live out the fantasies she enjoyed so much before, with her husband. Fantasies that were taken away from her by a selfish, sick man who didn't understand the level of trust and respect and affection between her and Kyle, someone who tried to steal her spirit. Facing herself scares her, because she's so afraid something is irrevocably lost. But she needs to push herself anyway. And who better than the one man, other than her husband, who would be there for her and see her through and not judge?

Drake is floored that Tania would like to take that next step with him. Though he knows by no means that she is looking for anything more, Drake can't say no. He will be there for her in any way she needs him, to provide strength, someone to depend on, and the means to give her her fantasies back. And maybe, just maybe, he has enough hope to believe it will give both of them what they really want....

My thoughts:

First off, huge shout-out to Shiloh for writing about such a sensitive, taboo subject. A woman's sexuality is a complex and beautiful thing, and sometimes that means desiring and indulging in fantasies that others might, and will, find traumatic and possibly even disgusting. I have never had a problem with this particular fantasy, I don't have any personal experience with rape or being attacked, but I don't take lightly those who have. Some people will not understand why anyone would want to act out being forced to have sex. Why being sexually dominated in such a forceful manner would be acceptable. But it is, as long as it happens between consenting adults, pretty much anything is acceptable. So that is why I give Shiloh a whole lot of credit for "going there".

Shiloh doesn't really go into why Tania is into this fantasy, but you know what? I don't think she has to because there doesn't necessarily need to be a reason other than that it turns her on. A lot of us want to put pretty labels on why things are the way they are. Sometimes they just ARE. Tania acts out her forbidden, kinky fantasies of being forced with her loving and understanding husband. It's a wonderfully healthy, open, satisfying relationship, one that her husband enjoys just as much as Tania does. But then he dies, and she's attacked, and everything she knew changed in a really bad way. She needs to find a way back to herself.

She finds that way with her friend Drake, a sexy, caring, dependable man who just happened to be her husband's best friend. She knows in her soul Drake would never hurt her, that he knows about her fantasies and isn't disgusted with her because of it. She needs to feel that way again. So she turns to Drake.

A man to die for. One of the things I loved about him is that he talks to Tania. A lot. They discuss going forward, they talk about what is going to happen and how it should happen. Drake doesn't close his eyes and hope he doesn't scare her. He asks her questions about what works for her, what doesn't. He takes his time, but pushes while gaging her responses, and in doing so, he experiences the pleasure himself as he watche her blossom under his touch, become bolder, more sure of herself again. The woman he loves takes back her sexuality. And he got her there out of love, and patience, and a firm hand. It makes them stronger. And Tania discovers that she can love again. That there is a man who will cherish all of her. The dark and the light. The sassy and the scared. The complete woman she is. And who could ask for more than that.

So I encourage you all to read it. This wasn't reading outside my comfort zone because I didn't have a problem with this fantasy. I loved this storyline. But others will have a more difficult time. I'm really relishing this opportunity read stories that push our buttons, that scare us and challenge us and make us think. Not that there is anything wrong with good, old-fashioned sex and romance, because I need that too. But to step away and put your foot out on that ledge, to flounder a little and feel shaky and terrified and angry, well, it can be cathartic. It can help you learn more about yourself. We need to learn more about ourselves. Never say never until you know for absolute certainty.

And if nothing else, Shiloh tells a wonderfully hot and delicious story that has you hooked from page one. She's one of the few that I will read an eARC for (yeah, I know, get an eReader!) and it is well worth it to me. And writing this review has been effortless and FUN, and educational. I feel like I accomplished something good by putting these words on paper. I would love to do it again *g*


Rating: ****1/2 out of *****






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Tuesday, September 07, 2010:
Veil of Shadows by Shiloh Walker (2010) - review

A rebel army has been established to win back the land from demons-and a ne soldier named Xan has appeared out of nowhere to join them. Beautiful army captain Laisyn Caar is shocked by the powerful, all- consuming desire she feels in his presence, but when she discovers the dark secrets of Xan's agenda, she'll have to determine whether the man she's starting to love is a friend of her people-or a dreaded enemy.

Once again, I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC for Shiloh Walker's latest release, Veil of Shadows. This book is the 2nd one in her Veil series, and I can't decide which I liked better. But if that's the worse complaint to have about a book, it's not a bad deal.

This time around, we get to delve even further into this grim, murky world of magic and demons. Captain Laisyn Caar is more than capable of leading her team, yet many are skeptical that such a slight, small woman can handle herself in a decent fight. Those doubters soon learn otherwise when going up against her taunting challenge. Syn is no fool, but she knows how to fight, and she knows how to take care of herself as well as her team. When a stranger comes to their camp, Syn is immediately aware of this dark, brooding man. And when he feels uncomfortable fighting her, she lets him know the only way to get him past his prejudice is to prove him wrong. Before long, Xan has to admit that a woman can hold her own in a fight, and that she is a natural to lead this team against the demons that wish to devour them and the Warlords that wish to conquer the witch.



Syn is tired. They are running low on supplies, and too many people are questioning her authority. When a compelling man comes to camp, she's immediately aware of him, and disturbed by those feelings. Not that she'd let that get in the way of enjoying him, but life at the camp is risky at best, and the chances either one of them will survive for long is less likely than being chomped on by a demon. But Syn is a survivor, and a fighter, and she's not willing to go down easy. She knows that leaving camp is dangerous, but she has to do something, otherwise they will all die.



But the one thing that may help them - magic - is forbidden by her Commander. Kalen is afraid that letting the 3 powerful witches use their powers will attract the dangerous attention of the Warlords, and he's not willing to risk any of them. What he doesn't understand that a witch who doesn't use the magic is not fully living. It's up to Syn to convince him that unless they are allowed to help in this way, they're all dead anyway.

But Warlords and demons are not their only enemy. There are others, lurking in the shadows, just waiting for a vulnerable moment where they can come out and play. Or kill.....

My thoughts:

It's been over 2 years since I reviewed the first book in this series, Through the Veil, and I had forgotten how drawn in I was to this world. We get to see more of Lee and Kalen, and we also get to know more about Syn and the other witch, Elina. I liked Syn a lot. She's not quite as grumpy as Lee, but she's got a definite edge to her. I have to admit, when another woman challenges her, she doesn't just turn the other cheek, and I loved it. She kinda rubs her nose in it, but at the same time, when things get tough, Syn will fight side by side if it means protecting her team. Syn gets by on her natural leadership and ability to make the tough decisions, choices she doesn't always like, but knows are necessary in order to maintain control. At times, she can be a bit unforgiving and unwilling to listen, but she's not always given much of a choice. Sometimes there is just no other way, and she doesn't have the luxury of soothing hurt feelings and concerns. They are fighting a war, and Syn doesn't have a lot of options. She must do what is best for all of them.

Xan is mysterious and solemn, keeps much to himself except when it comes to Syn. Right from the start he's drawn to this strong, commanding woman, and respects the decisions she has to make. Though initially he's resistant to go up against her in a training exercise, he soon learns that the best way to fight is to be prepared for any instance, even if it does mean fighting someone smaller than himself, someone decidedly more feminine. But she doesn't pull any punches, and Xan respects her even more for it.

In their world, life is precious. It may seem at times impossible to imagine that two people can connect so quickly, but they don't have the certainty that they will even have a future. Xan is understandably still protective of his woman, not wanting her to use magic if it could harm her in any way, but he understands her need for it, like breathing, and he tries to be supportive, even though it makes him angry that she's taking such risks. But the rational side of him does understand. And he proudly fights side by side with her, which made me like him even more.

It's obvious anyone who shows up the way Xan does would have his secrets. We don't find out what those are right away, so there's always that cloud of uncertainty hanging over their relationship until we discover just what kind of man Xan is. And just what Syn will do once she finds out...

I loved revisiting Lee and Kalen again. We see how they are adjusting to marriage, how their happily ever after doesn't come sprinkled in fairydust. Their lives are hard, but they make the most of what they have. And I really hope we get to enjoy Elina's story next. She's mighty powerful in her own right, and aching for a man who walks the world mostly on his own.

The more I think we know about this world Shiloh has created, the more interesting little tidbits she tosses in to keep us wanting even more. Once again I was completely absorbed in her storytelling, and now want to go back and re-read both books back-to-back to experience the full affect. Just when I think I'm immune to her writing, she sucks me back in and I gladly go where the story takes me. I can't wait to go back :)

Rating: ****1/2 out of *****



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Tuesday, June 01, 2010:
Cover alert: Never As It Seems by Shiloh Walker



Three years after he walked away from her and broke her heart, Leo is back in Chloe’s life and that’s the last place she wants him. Not that she has any choice in the matter. She’s in big trouble. She needs somebody to watch her back and he’s the “somebody”.

Three years ago, Chloe dumped a bombshell in Leo’s lap. I’m psychic, she told him.

As if he was supposed to believe that. His world is black and white, and he doesn’t buy into that mumbo jumbo. Walking away from her damn near killed him, but he couldn’t be with somebody he couldn’t trust.

His new job? Keep Chloe safe. That’s it.

He’s not supposed to touch her. He’s not supposed to make love to her. He’s not supposed to want her…need her…love her.

But he can’t stop thinking about her, can’t stop dreaming about her. Now that she’s back in his life, he can’t keep his hands off her either.


***********


Due out the end of June!!!

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Tuesday, May 25, 2010:
The Missing by Shiloh Walker (2008) - review
From the national bestselling author whose stories are "exhilerating [and] action-packed" (Midwest Book Review) comes a sinfully sexy novel of romantic suspense about a woman whos psychic gift drives away the man she loves - and years later draws him back to her...

LOVE LOST

As a teenager, Taige Branch was able to do things with her psychic gift that others couldn't understand - except for Cullen Morgan, the boy who stole her heart. He did his best to accept her abilities, until his mother was brutally murdered - and he couldn't forgive Taige for not preventing her death.

PASSION FOUND

Now a widowed father, Cullen Morgan has never forgotten Taige. But what brings her back into his life is another tragic event. His beloved little girl has been kidnapped, and Taige is his only hope of finding her.

A LOVE THAT NEVER DIED

Working together against the clock, Cullen and Taige can't help but wonder whether - if they find his daughter in time - it isn't too late for the overpowering love that still burns between them...

Once again, I am blown away by a story Shiloh Walker has written. It sounds almost negative, doesn't it, to say that I was predictably impressed with another one of her books, but well, it's the truth. I can't help it if I love them so much. I just do.

Taige Branch had always felt alone and unwanted since her parents died. Living with her God-fearing, disapproving uncle, she has had to learn to fend for herself, even against those bigger and stronger than her who thought she was an easy target. One night when she comes across some guys looking for trouble, it looks like she's finally found herself in a situation she cannot overcome, and it looks pretty bad. Just when the helpless frustration and desperation set in, someone comes along and saves her from being raped. That someone is Cullen Morgan.

Cullen has noticed Taige around, senses her loneliness and is drawn to her sad beauty. But she won't give him the time of day. Not until he comes across her being attacked, and fortunately manages to get to her before it's too late. It would have devastated Cullen to see anything happen to the brave, stoic girl he can't stop thinking about. She's unlike anyone he's ever known before.

From that point on, whenever Cullen and his family come to Alabama for vacation, Taige and Cullen are pretty much inseparable, and what started out as infatuation soon blossoms into a passionate and intense love. No other boy has ever made Taige feel special, or that she was worth something. But Cullen is different. He values her as a person, loves her as a woman, and even accepts the unusual gift she's had for as long as she can remember. Because of all that, she knows in her heart that he is the only man for her.

But then something horrible happens to Cullen's murder, and though there was nothing Taige could have done to prevent it, Cullen still blames her because she had an ability that could have done something to save her, and he cannot forgive her for that.

Years later, Taige is now someone who, by using her unique abilities, can find people who have been kidnapped, mostly children. Despite the terrible way things had ended between her and Cullen, she uses that experience to turn it into something that could be considered meaningful. Cullen has always regretted the way he handled things with Taige, but he never forgot about her. In fact, he's been keeping an eye on her over the years, and he knows his harsh words drove her to become this driven stranger who finds missing people for a living. He just never thought he'd ever need to come to her for help, but when his precious daughter is taken, there's nowhere else he can turn. Taige has to find his daughter...

My thoughts:


Yes, this one packs a ton of emotion between its pages, and then some. Taige has few friends, and not much of what you could call family, and it's turned her into a serious, cautious young woman. She notices Cullen on the beach, and even thinks he's kinda cute, but she's not willing to take it any further than that. But when he rescues her from being raped, she can no longer ignore the gentle yet intense young man who makes her heart race.

I liked how Cullen kinda coaxed Taige out of her shell, showed her that she was worth being someone to care about. I think it gave her a bit of confidence to have someone put so much faith into her. But Taige wasn't a stupid, impulsive girl, so he took his time with her, which I appreciated.

I think he was too harsh on her after his mom died, but unless you're in that situation, it's really hard to judge what you'd do with all that pain and grief. Regardless, his actions drive her away, and it's years before they see each other again, under similar circumstances. This time it's his daughter who needs help, and Taige is the only one he can turn to. I liked that although things had ended badly between them, he still had enough faith in her to trust she'd find his child. Despite how terrified he was, he still believed in Taige, and that meant something.

Taige was one of those people who was the job, and it took its toll on her significantly. She drank probably too much, hardly slept, and didn't have much in the way of relationships. What she did completely drained her, but she still managed to do it on her own terms. Having Cullen reappear in her life is both a blessing and a curse. She still loves him, but he is also hurting, and in turn that hurts her. He is the one man she can ever be with, and under the circumstances, how could he ever want anything to do with her? She would always be a reminder of some of the most painful times in his life.

But Cullen doesn't see things that way, and he's bound and determined to prove that to her. He's not going to let her walk away again, no matter what happens. He'd done that once, and though he gained a precious daughter out of it, he still never had his complete heart. He's in full "redeeming myself" mode, and I was happy to see that.

Another poignant, emotional story, one that is vying for the spot as my favorite Shiloh Walker book. If there is any complaint I had, I will touch on it briefly. There was a scene when both Taige and Cullen confront his daughter's kidnapper, and though it was obvious he was an evil, dangerous man, both Cullen and Taige turn their back on him, not just once, but twice! And I understood it drove the story to come to its climax, but the way it happened had me rolling my eyes a bit, because each time the villain attacks. Come on, he's not stupid, but for a few moments, Cullen and Taige were. His actions drove the reader to the obvious conclusion, but I think it could have possibly been written a little differently.

But then there is still several pages of the book left afterwards, and things happen that soothed me enough that I closed the cover with a very happy sigh of contentment, and a few tears. (Because I'm PMS-ing and I turn into a damn emotional wreck!)

This is a stand-alone story, one that can probably be read in one sitting over savored over several. Granted however, with it being so emotional, you might want to take your time with it. And even now, I'm still remembering scenes and feeling that ache for Taige that turned into a much happier feeling when she was reunited with Cullen. Some things are just meant to be :)


Rating: ****1/2 out of *****



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Sunday, May 23, 2010:
My fan letter to Shiloh Walker

Before I start my letter, I would like to give some credit to a few people who made this all happen. First off, there was Katiebabs, who forwarded an email from Kassa, who came up with the idea in the first place. And also to EH who created this fabulous blog button. LOVE IT. And last but not least to all the other bloggers who participated, and whose blogs I've visited and enjoyed over the last few weeks, and the others still to come. I've come across several amazing blogs and wonderful recommendations - some of which have been added to my list because I've been so intrigued by them - and my credit card weeps with fear now.

At first I wasn't sure who I was going to write to, because there are just so many fabulous authors out there, some new to me, others old favorites. But after giving it some consideration, I knew there was only one course of action to take: write to an author who consistently affects me strongly as a reader, so that is exactly what I did.

Now on to the main event....


Dear Ms. Shiloh Walker:



The first book of yours I'd ever read was an Elloras Cave release by the name of Touch of Fire, which, according to Books-a-Million, was released in July 2004. Even then, you wrote such a heartbreaking story that I ached from it, but it was the good kind of ache, like right after you exercise, or in this case, when your heart is fully engaged in the story and you never want to leave it.

Since then, I've read the majority of your books, most notably the Hunters series, which has always been sexy and dangerous and often poignant, and which always leads me to coming back for more of this haunting world. It boggles the mind how prolific you are as a writer, considering how young you are and how long you've been a published author, yet if anything, it is a fact that makes this reader exceptionally happy, because there always seems to be yet another story I find I haven't read yet, and that makes me feel like a kid at Christmas. There's nothing like knowing a favorite author has stories in publication that I haven't read yet. It's truly a beautiful thing.

I know that I am a failure as a reader in that I have trouble distinguishing the majority of most of the various author voices from one another, but in your case, that has never been a problem for me. When I read one of your books, there is no doubt in my mind that you have set yourself apart from other writers by "speaking" strictly from your own distinct POV. It's not anything obvious that I can explain, but there's a way you phrase your words that tends to call strongly to me as a reader. Does that make sense? In other words, there's just something about the way you write that affects me in almost a visceral manner, and it's rare that I don't have some type of strong emotional reaction to one of your stories. Most of the time, I cannot stay disconnected when I read a Shiloh Walker book. To me, that is the secret of your success.

At the risk of not sounding very stalker-ish, I will admit that there have been uncommon instances when a story went in a different direction than I would have liked, and some of your choices haven't always sat 100% well with me, but those instances are miniscule, and overall, you have provided me with untold hours of reading pleasure, and even the very few times a story hasn't completely moved me cannot even compare to all I've gained from reading your amazing stories. I am almost as thrilled as you are to see others so enthralled by your stories. To date, my absolute favorite book of yours would have to be Fragile, followed closely by The Missing (which I'd just finished this weekend) and I am really, REALLY looking forward to your fan favorite, Broken, sequel to Fragile. It fills me with anticipation to know I still have new Shiloh Walker stories to savor and sigh over.

I love that though you are most known to me for your paranormals, you've also written historical stories and some straight-up contemporaries, which tend to be my favorites, because you focus solely on the characters and their needs. These are the stories I like to re-read most, and also because they are beautifully erotic and edgy, which I love.


I've also been extremely lucky to have met you on several occasions, and for the most part I think I've been fairly rational and non-scary (though I'm sure you could take me out with one solid kick so why would you worry?), and I look forward to seeing you again next month at the get-together,where I will continue to behave in a mature and calm manner *g*

I dearly hope that you continue to write books for decades to come, and that more readers discover and fall in love with your stories just like I have.


Most sincerely from your (worst) stalker,


Stacy ~



And check out Nicola's blog tomorrow for her author letter :)

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Tuesday, April 27, 2010:
Chains by Shiloh Walker
Renee was the homecoming queen with the perfect boyfriend and the perfect life. Lacey was the golden girl with the bright future. And Sherra always looked like the princess in a fairy tale. The three girls each seemed charmed-until one tragic night shattered their hopes for normalcy.

Now, fifteen years later, the women are returning to their hometown of Madison, Ohio, where three men await them-each dangerous in his own way. And when each of the women succumb to desire, they may also find the safety they've been searching for.

I got this book at last year's Lori Foster/Dianne Castell get-together, and while Shiloh Walker didn't write anything memorable in my book (like she did when she wrote in somone's book that it "great beating you"), I still love her and her books quite madly.

We meet Renee, Lacey, and Sherra during one fateful night when something tragic happens that all three end up being involved in. These three young women are completely different, but this one event brings them together and changes their lives forever.

Renee is the icy, perfect prom queen. Untouchable. Unaffected. Many think also uncaring. But beneath the surface Renee is not the rich bitch her classmates take her for. She's just too afraid to stand up against domineering people like her strong-willed mother, and more times than not she finds herself giving in to avoid conflict. But that fateful night, Renee does something unexpected: she takes action in order to protect someone else, never knowing the chain of events that would follow.

Lacey is the epitome of the golden girl, the one every person loved. She's got a great boyfriend, an athletic streak, and her eye on the future. But that night everything changed, and the safe, happy life she'd known for so long comes crumbling down. How can she go back to the way things were when there are so many terrible memories?

Sherra is the strangely lovely girl most people have learned to avoid. She uses her caustic tongue to cut people down as a defense mechanism, yet her background make her fair game for those who feel they are entitled to take. To hurt. When she's caught in a situation out of her control, she does what she must to survive, even if it means living with the nightmares for years.

Brought together by tragedy, united in friendship, these three women form a bond that will sustain them through the horror of what happened fifteen years ago, and maybe along the way find the love that has alluded each of them for so long...

Renee was the first to find someone she could truly be herself with, and who quite possibly understood that while she indulged her darkest fantasies in the bedroom, she didn't necessarily want that to carry over into other aspects of her life. She rebelled, but still maintained her own sense of self. She was bold enough and aware of herself enough that she didn't feel the need to fit into a lifestyle that she really didn't want. Having lived so much of her life under her mother's thumb, she was tired of giving in to other people's demands. So when she meets a man who is willing to take her as far as she wants to go but also knows that it ends once they step outside the bedroom, it's gratifying, freeing, and a complete relief. She never thought she'd find someone who understood her so well.

Lacey was always the person who drew people to her,but the events of fifteen years ago had her shutting herself off from others, and it showed in her art. Though she's been home before over the years, it wasn't until five years ago that she encountered a man who finally made her feel. But miscommunication and hurt pride keeps them from really finding something that could be real between them. Now Lacey has come home again, and maybe this time she'll get a chance to explore those feelings that only seem to awaken when she's with a certain man.

Sherra has locked herself away in a ivory tower, writing her stories and not really having any kind of a life. She has a few friends and a brother she adores, but there's no man in her life, or anything close to resembling a normal relationship. Going out on tour, her agent insists on providing Sherra with a bodyguard, and while she's none to pleased to have someone hovering over her and not giving her any privacy, she can't help the shivers of awareness she feels whenever he looks at her. Maybe, just maybe this time, things will be different...

My thoughts:

No doubt about it, I loved this book. I loved each of the characters, even when they drove me a little crazy for being so stubborn. I could still tell their heart was in the right place. I loved how each heroine had her own story, which developed as the rest of the story was unfolding. There was an ongoing thread that begins in Renee's story, runs through Lacey's, and culminates in Sherra's. These three women have not only bonded with each other due to a horific event, they've become lifelong friends. There's something to be said for your sister(s) of the heart, the women who support you and nag you and push you and are always there for you.

In addition to watching each of them fall in love with the man that is uniquely worthy to each of them, there is a suspenseful subplot tying the three novellas together. While it kept me glued to the pages for most of the book, I will admit that the discovery of who was involved in this plot was a trifle weak. We're thrown a few red herrings to deter us from figuring out what's really going on, and that was fun, but the actual outcome left something to be desired. I thought that angle of the story could have been woven tighter, been a little more clever, but it certainly isn't anything that detracted from my enjoyment of the romances that were developing.

And Shiloh makes each heroine distinctly different, but not so much so that we cannot see them knowing each other or being such close friends. They have their own lives, their own careers and interests, but what's at the core of each of them is similar enough to share lifelong friendships. Their sex lives and level of experience is also different, and we discover how each woman reacted differently to what they remember and took away from that unforgettable night so long ago that still stays fresh in their minds. In turn she's paired them with men who complement them, who give them the confidence to be who they truly are and to help face the demons that have followed them for so long.

As always, I'm (quietly) blown away by how distinctive Shiloh's voice is in every story she writes. It's like biting into your favorite candy bar and being pleasantly surprised that no matter how many times you've eaten one before, there's always that combination of sweetness and bite that surprises and delights you, something you kinda forget about until the next time you indulge, and then you want nothing more than to savor it until the bittersweet end.

Another winner from Shiloh. I sound like a broken record but it is what it is: a wonderful reading experience.

Rating: ***** out of *****



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Monday, April 12, 2010:
Beautiful Girl by Shiloh Walker - quickie review
Sometimes getting to heaven requires a trip through hell. Twelve years ago, it looked like Del Prescott had it all. The wealthy family, the car, the looks and charm, and the perfect boyfriend. Then, mysteriously, she disappeared to "study abroad." Now she's back, and it's not merely to attend a high school reunion. She's here to face her demons-and Blake, the man she has never stopped loving.

Blake Mitchell is a changed man, thanks to surviving twelve long years of difficulties that began after Del dropped out of his life. Now she's back, and she's nothing like the polished, stylish world traveler he imagined she'd be. There's a darkness about her, and a grim expression in her eyes that says she's prepared for fight or flight. Blake's concern for her breaks down the walls Del has built around her heart and she finally begins to heal from the abuse she suffered at the hands of her own family. But the betrayal goes deeper than either of them ever imagined-and it's about to come back to haunt them. (Warning, this title contains the following: explicit sex, graphic language and violence).

It's been a long time since Del's been home to Prescott, and being back has stirred up a lot of memories; a lot of good times, but also the bad. Coming back has not been an easy decision for her, but it's time she faced her past and stopped letting it control her.

Blake Mitchell has moved on with his life, but he never quite got over the girl who owned his heart all those years ago. He's had some pretty rough times of his own, but now he's working as a sheriff and he's fairly content with his lot in life. Hearing Del is back is kind of a shock to his system, and he's not sure how he feels about that. It isn't until he sees her again that all those old feelings come rushing back. One thing he does know is that he can't hate her. In fact he's pretty sure he never stopped loving her.

One person that's not quite so happy to see Del is her mother Louisa. She's always been more concerned about appearances, and since coming back, her daughter Delilah has not fallen in line like her mother expects her to. Louisa knows why Del left all those years ago, but she doesn't really give a damn. All she wants is for Del to come back into the fold and act like a proper Prescott daughter. But Del is not some malleable toy who can be controlled. And Louisa won't stand for it.
Coming back to Prescott has been an emotional rollercoaster for Del, but unless she can face her demons, she can never take back her life. And that's all she wants to do. And maybe, just maybe, find the happiness she thought was forever denied her...

My thoughts:

One thing about Shiloh Walker, she has an amazing backlist, and I'm always finding stories of hers I haven't read yet. This one I got at the 2009 Lori Foster booksigning, and finally got around to reading it.

You just know you're going to get your heart ripped out - but in a good way - with one of Shiloh's books, and "Beautiful Girl" is no exception to that. Del was a beautiful girl, but because of someone who felt entitled to take what didn't belong to him, she lost her innocence forever. What made it even worse is that her mother knew about it and never did anything to stop it. In fact she accused Del of lying when her own daughter came to her about being raped. As a woman, you can only imagine how traumatizing this must be to a young teenage girl who turns to an adult who should be there no matter what, and instead she's scorned and ridiculed.

I liked that when Blake and Del see each other again, though they both regret the loss of what they had so long ago, Blake wasn't cold and cruel to Del. Instead it was almost like their connection had never broken, and those old feelings resurrected into something stronger, more mature. Blake had been through his own difficult struggle, and I think it made him appreciate life and the fact that Del is back. He doesn't want any anger between them.

Having Del recount that abuse that had happened to her was heart-wrenching. Though we don't "see" much of what she suffered, it was enough to want to cry for her. But also it made me respect what she'd been through, even the darkness she faced after the abuse, and where she is today. Del's life doesn't automatically heal once she's back in Prescott, and she still tenses up when she remembers. I think it's important to show this because victims of abuse will most likely always carry the scars of what they suffered, and there is no easy fix, but they can take back control and not let the fear keep them from finding happiness, especially when it's with a good man like Blake.

"Beautiful Girl" is a lovely, heartbreaking love story. I'm always glad when I read one of Shiloh's books, because even when it's a difficult story to process, it reminds me of what it's like to feel for the characters so deeply. And I always think that's a very good thing. I never want to become de-sensitized to the bad things that happen. With a Shiloh Walker book, that's a guarantee that will never happen.


Rating: ****1/2 out of *****

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Monday, March 15, 2010:
Chicago Signing: Beth Kery, Shiloh Walker, Julie James & Joss Ware

Here's the first thing you see when you walk through the doors of the Barnes & Noble, located in Chicago on Webster. So pretty.....


Here's Beth Kery, author of one of my top favorite erotic romances of all time: Wicked Burn. She's so sweet, and much prettier than my blurry photo-taking skills would indicate. In my defense, I was using my phone to take the pictures, and it's not the best quality. But take my word for it, Beth is adorable.

I didn't notice this at the time I took the picture, but have to laugh at the sign above Julie James and Joss Ware: Bargain-priced top selections. Yeah, I'd have to agree - they are a bargain *g*


And here she is, the object of my "obsessive" stalking: Shiloh Walker! Ain't she just the cutest thing ever???? And she left me the sweetest message in my copy of Broken, which I would have taken a picture of to show you, but I ended up leaving my books in someone else's car and don't have them back yet, but they are not far from me, so if I get them back soon, I'll be sure to take a picture and show you all. She says the nicest things LOL.

It was a most fun Saturday, and I also got to meet some Twitter friends, like Colleen. Julie's adorable son Jackson was there, but I missed the opportunity to meet the brilliant Mr. James. Perhaps another time. I also missed seeing my pal Dani again. I got there around 3:30 and stayed the whole time. I figured if I'm going to drive into the city I'm going to make the most of it.

After the signing, we headed across the street to the Webster Wine Bar. (I did take a picture, but it was so dark in there it's hard to see after I downloaded it). I talked to Julie a little bit about her next book - her heroine owns a wine store and Julie did extensive, um, research for the book, which has now prompted me to find out more about wine. I never really cared all that much before, but it turns out Illinois has some decent wineries, plus I checked online and there are a gazillion wine-tasting events around the city and suburbs, some of them even free. So I think I'll be brushing up on my wine knowledge.

Shiloh's hubby was also in attendance. Gotta give the guy credit for listening to our chatter. He didn't talk much but you can just tell he's got some interesting thoughts and opinions, judging but the look on his face LOL. I'm sure being married to an author, he's heard it all.

Got exciting news from Joss: she's working on book #4! I won't give anything away, but I'm thrilled to pieces. It's going to also reveal a lot about another character who will be getting a story later on, and I can't wait for his story. It's going to be a doozy, I'm sure. And in Colleen Gleason news, she's got a new vampire series she's working on, so I'm tres excited about that. Keep those books coming, Joss/Colleen!

In other news, I have a interview with Beth to post, which will probably go up sometime this week. I'm looking forward to that. She was very patient with me, as I tend to ask really confusing questions, but I think we worked it all out.

So as you can see, I had a GREAT time. These ladies are 4 of my favorite authors, all auto-buys for me. And I'm looking forward to seeing them again later in the year for other signings. There's the Chicago Spring Fling, which I'll be attending, as well as the Lori Foster get-together, and RWA. It's going to be a fabulous year :)

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Thursday, March 04, 2010:
Heroes vs. Heroines with Shiloh Walker
Who matters more…the hero or the heroine?

For me? It’s both.

A good hero doesn’t matter much if the heroine isn’t a good match.
Likewise with the heroine. If she’s a great heroine and her hero sucks? The book doesn’t work.

A lot of times, I hear people discussing the hero and I rarely hear about the heroine, but for me, I need them both. If the heroine is weak, I don’t want to keep reading.

If the hero is an asshole, I often dump the book even if the heroine is awesome-unless the story is just oh, man fricking awesome.

They are a unit, you know? Part of a matched set and if one half of that set isn’t any good? The book fails for me. This is part of why I had to dump BROKEN a third of the way through when I first started writing it.

The heroine wasn’t right.

In fact, for Quinn, she was all wrong.

She wasn’t a bad heroine. In fact, I may use her later in another book, for him?

She was all wrong and it was causing problems with the book. Quinn has this tarnished knight thing going, and trust me, it works well for him, but with this book, this heroine, this hero, it just wasn’t working out.

So I ditched 2/3 of the story. More.

I think the one line I kept other than bits and pieces of Quinn’s history was this one:

Wounded warrior.

That’s Quinn. To a T.

He was a wounded warrior and I needed a heroine who can handle that…plus handle him, because sometimes, he’s a little…well, snarly.

I met that heroine when I met Sara. She’s not what I was expecting.

She’s not what Quinn was expecting.

And she’s actually rather perfect for him.

Do you find yourself drawn to one more than the other? Does the heroine matter to you much? Does the hero matter more than anything else?

For those curious about the book I’m rambling about….

Shattered

Quinn Rafferty is working as a bounty hunter and bail bondsman in St. Louis when a new neighbor catches his eye. He’s tempted by her beauty—but he knows from experience that anyone desperate enough to live in his building is damaged goods. Besides, he has his own soul to mend before he can worry about anyone else.

Desperate

Sara Davis is on the run, but not for the usual reasons a woman goes on the lam. She’s not an abused wife, and she’s not a criminal. But she does have a plan for her future. And as much as she finds herself attracted to her gruff, tough neighbor, she can’t risk telling him the secrets she’s hiding. There’s just too much at stake.

Driven to desire…

But Quinn must get closer to Sara when she turns out to be the target of his new missing persons case, and he discovers that there is something more complex and dangerous to her than he thought. Now, both Quinn and Sara will have to expose their true feelings—as well as their fragile hearts—if they hope their love will survive…

If you’d like to read more about my work, you can read an excerpt of BROKEN here at my site…and right now, if you buy BROKEN during release week, you can be entered to win a NOOK, the new ebook reader from Barnes and Noble.


Shiloh Walker
http://shilohwalker.com/
http://shilohwalker.wordpress.com/

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Thursday, January 28, 2010:
Cover alert: Veil of Shadows by Shiloh Walker

Late 2010 release


Woo hoo!

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Tuesday, January 26, 2010:
January 26th eBook release alert: No Prince Charming by Shiloh Walker
Her Happy-Ever-After has been a long time coming…

Elle spent years trying to get over her so-called Prince Charming, and she’s finally getting the hang of it. A Grimm—a guardian angel with unique gifts—she spends her nights trolling for demons and kicking ass, and lately, her days have been spent with her on-and-off-again lover, Ren, a fellow Grimm. But fate has other plans in store for Elle, plans that include Michael, the prince from her youth who broke her heart.

“What do you choose…live for her? Or would you rather die?” That was the choice Michael was given all those years ago. Although he knew she’d never forgive him, when Michael was given the chance to become a Grimm, he took it. Still, he isn’t so sure Elle needs him in her life. With a lover at her side and a mission before her, Elle looks like she’s doing just fine without him.

But the not-so-charming prince isn’t going to back off that easily…not if there’s a chance she might need him again. He’d do anything to save her. Kill for her, live for her, die for her…


Warning: This dark, twisted version of Cinderella involves demons, deceit, desire, and debauchery between a princess and two sexy guardian angels, both determined to win the fair Cinderella.

You can buy it here:

http://samhainpublishing.com/authors/shiloh-walker


And here's an excerpt from Shiloh Walker's website to whet your whistle:

All these years, he had been waiting for a second chance. All these years, he had waited for her.

Waited—because he’d been told that she would need him. He’d held onto that, because he loved her, because he wanted to believe she would one day forgive him, one day love him again, one day need him.

And now, here she was…so lovely, so beautiful and strong. So out of reach.

He’d been a delusional fool.

She leaned against her lover and smiled at him. A golden brow arched and she said, “What’s the matter, prince? Cat got your tongue?”

He skimmed his gaze over her once more, wishing he could move in and touch. Wishing he could take and taste. Instead, he tucked his hands into his pockets and inclined his head. “Just trying to understand your choice of clothing.”

“Oh, well, now. I can help there.” Elle gave him a devilish smile and leaned in, her voice a low, silken purr. “It’s a sex club. I’m trying to blend.”

Michael didn’t think Elle could ever blend. No matter what she did.

She was close…so close. Closing his eyes, he took a slow, careful breath, flooding his senses with her scent, reveling in the warmth he felt radiating from her.

But then she pulled back. Gone. Her eyes stared at his and she had a blank, bored expression on her face. “So now that you know why I’m pretending to be S&M Barbie, why don’t you get out of here?”

“I can’t.” Inclining his head, he said, “I was sent here. Told to find you, help you.”

“Help me?” She shrugged. “Sorry, Michael, I’ve already got help.” She inclined her head towards her companion and asked, “Ren, have you met Michael?”

“No.” A cold smile curled Ren’s lips and he stroked his jaw. “I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure. Although I’ve heard of you. Quite a bit, actually. But, as you can see, help is already taken care of. Run along now…go crawl back under a rock or something.”

Michael bared his teeth in a grim smile. “I’ll go on along when I’m damn good and ready…what was the name again…Ren?”

The other man opened his mouth to respond and Michael looked away, dismissing him. “He sent me, Elle. You’re stuck with me.”

Elle’s lashes lowered, shielding her blue eyes from him.

But he didn’t need to see her eyes to feel her anger, feel her confusion.

She hid it behind a cool smile just a few seconds later. “I suspected as much. Damn, apparently I went and pissed somebody off but bad, if I got stuck with you.”

Michael managed to hide his wince, but just barely. “I’ll be sure to let him know you didn’t appreciate my presence.”

She didn’t need to ask which him he was talking about—it could only be Will. He was the only one who ever sent them anyway. All orders came through him. For the most part, those who served under Will’s lead didn’t have to follow orders—they knew their responsibilities and they did their jobs.

But every once in a while there came a special case.

Michael didn’t know what was special about this particular job, but if there was a chance in hell that Elle might actually need him, then he’d walk through fire to help her.

And if that meant he’d have to stand by at the side while another man pawed her, so fucking be it. He’d be insane when the job was done, but if she might need him, he didn’t give a damn.

If he was honest, he’d have to admit he’d walk through fire just to see her smile. Burns healed. Doing something that would actually put a real smile on her face? It would be worth a little pain.


Now go forth and buy!

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Tuesday, December 22, 2009:
Spotlight: W - Shiloh Walker
(Isn't she cute????)

It just goes without saying that anyone who's visited my blog over the last (almost!) 4 years that I am a huge fan of author Shiloh Walker. She has a way of writing that gets to me, no matter if it's a paranormal, one of her erotic romances, or a suspenseful contemporary.

Way before I ever met her, I enjoyed her books, most notably the Hunters series. But the first book of her's I'd ever read was "Touch of Gypsy Fire". It was a poignant story in some ways, and right then and there I knew I'd come across an author who had a limitless imagination and a compelling way of telling a story.

What I like so much about them is that no matter what they are about, Shiloh always includes a huge dose of emotion in each story, so that you can "feel" some of what the character is going through, even if it's about something you have no experience with yourself. She can make me sympathize with someone who does horrible things, because that's how much she puts of herself into her writing. She doesn't write about cookie-cutter characters that are predictable and perfect; she tells the story of flawed, interesting, regular people, the kind we might even know in our own lives if we took the time to pay attention.

And if that weren't enough, she writes some smokin' hot lovin'. It's always a good idea to keep a fan or something cool nearby, because chances are when you're reading one of Shi's books, you're gonna get burned, in the best possible way. Damn that woman can write scorching scenes! I love how sometimes she writes such seemingly weak heroines who find their strength and their confidence through their sexuality. It doesn't define them, but it does empower them, and makes them realize their potential in a way other methods do not. They become stronger because they can not only ask for what they want, but oftentimes just take it. Most specifically I'm thinking of Alison from "Her Wildest Dreams". She was unhappy, and let others take advantage of her. But once she stopped pining for someone she thought didn't want her, and finally demand that she be respected, not just by men but by everyone in her life, things changed so much for her. The pivotal moment came after her first sexual encounter with Alex.

Yeah it's pretty obvious by now I have a bit of a reader crush on Shiloh, but I've managed to maintain a level head within her presence, and she hasn't had to worry about an unstable fangirl going all pyscho on her *g* I try to behave in public. Don't want to get uninvited from Lori Foster's June event (or miss my chance to get an ARC...)

So there you have it, this week's author spotlight. Thanx for letting me "squee" just a little.

Have you read any of Shiloh's books?


Are you a fan of emotional stories?




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Monday, November 23, 2009:
Hunter's Need by Shiloh Walker (2009) - review
In this dazzling follow-up to Hunter's Salvation, national best-selling author Shiloh Walker tells the story of another unique hero at the heart of a terrifying story...

HIS CHALLENGE

Duke is bitter. A shapeshifter betrayed by the psychic powers of Analise Morell, he cannot forgive her for putting him in the clutches of a feral vampire, but he also can't shake his desire for her. And when she needs a Hunter, Duke must face his demons - and hers...

HER MISSION

Desperate voices are battering Ana's psychic shields. A serial killer with extraordinary powers is about to strike again, and the tormented souls of his previous victims are screaming for her help. But Ana can't understand why they want her...

THEIR INSATIABLE DESIRE

After what she did to him, Ana is sure Duke must be using her...but so be it. Ana can't fight her longing for him or the desire that's haunted her for years. Every fiber of Duke's soul - both the man and the cougar within - yearns to protect and possess her...

It's true, I'm a total Shiloh Walker fangirl, and I was absolutely thrilled to get an ARC of this book (Shiloh is so good to me *g*). I actually thought this was #10 in the Hunter series, but now I'm not so sure, as she's had several novellas and spin-offs in the series. Here is a list of the Hunters so far.

Ana knows the Hunters hate her for what she did to Duke, how it lead to him being tortured, even though she did what she did to protect her younger brother Brad. And she knows Duke hates her most of all. She's at Excelsior to try and figure out how her psychic gifts work, and because Brad also has incredible gifts of his own. But it's useless. She's not strong, and her powers are useless. Tired of feeling like an outsider, and knowing it will be better for Brad if she leaves, Ana says good-bye to her brother and takes off for parts unknown.

And ends up in Alaska. Here she's found a place of beauty and solace, where she can just "be". Over the next year she finds a job, and though she might not be exactly happy, she's found a place where she doesn't have to feel like such a useless freak.

Until one day, her good-hearted nature introduces her to an evil that's been around a very long time. By helping a kind homeless man, Ana starts to get strong feelings about some killings in their area, some that go by years. One in particular, the death of Marie, the homeless man's dead financee', won't let her go. Ana senses Marie's presence so strongly that it drives her to look into her death. She even goes as far as to visit Marie's family members. But still, despite all the investigating she does, she's frustrated because every lead comes to a dead end. She needs help, and though she's reluctant to do it, she contacts Excelsior.

Duke has been restless a long time, but even moreso after Ana leaves Virginia. Yet when she calls asking for help, he blows her off, figuring that no matter how much he wants her, it's better if he stays far away from the woman who was responsible for the torture he suffered at the hands of a feral vampire. However fate intervenes and he ends up going to Alaska to help Ana, and once he's there, the animal inside him senses an evil, but despite his best efforts, he cannot locate where it's coming from.

But he's got more pressing needs. Unable to resist Ana any longer, he uses her attraction to him to seduce her, and they are both lost to the intense pleasure that they experience. Duke is drawn to Ana, despite her betrayal, and he can't keep away from her. Ana loves Duke, has always loved him, and though it's going to hurt something fierce when he leaves, she'd rather have these few moments of happiness than nothing at all.

As Ana becomes more involved in solving the crime, the spirits of those who died are pressuring her to find the killer. It's too much for her to handle. However both her and Duke know it's only a matter of time before he strikes again, and in order to stop a killer and avenge the deaths of so many innocents, Ana must let herself trust in her powers and not be afraid to face the horror of a mad and obsessed brutal killer....

My thoughts:

Another winner from Ms. Walker. Shiloh has this amazing talent of always adding just enough emotion to draw me in while mixing in suspense, extreme sensuality, and characters with extraordinary gifts. I love the intensity of her stories, and though sometimes it can be hard to read, that she sometimes writes about good people who go through very difficult and tragic circumstances, but never in a gratuitous manner.

Ana is stronger than she realizes, because she knew that a lot of people would end up hating her for what happened to Duke, however her sole concern was her younger brother Brad. How can you not admire a woman who puts her sibling before herself? She wasn't a coward; it took strength to do this and risk the aftermath. And if she had to do it all over again, there's no doubt she'd do exactly the same thing.

Despite Duke's treatment of Ana, he's never been able to forget the way she mesmerized him the first time he sees her. Though he understands why she did what she did, he still holds a grudge. Knowing the kind of man Duke is, this makes complete sense, and I could accept his feelings. Once he goes to Alaska and spends time with Ana, his feelings slowly begin to change. He sees how proud she is, how determined she is to make it on her own without anyone's help, even while knowing she doesn't believe she has any gifts. And as they race to stop another innocent woman from being killed, he witnesses firsthand her strength, her bravery, and her generous, selfless heart. It doesn't take much for Duke to realize that Ana is the woman he's been waiting for all his life.

This is a heartbreaking story, one that I don't think was fully explored, at least there were a few things I still had questions about. But they didn't bother me enough to take away from my enjoyment of the story. One of my favorite moments is at the end when Ana finally realizes that Duke really does love her, and she laughs from sheer happiness. She's suffered so much, and to finally discover she means the world to the man she loves is a moment of joy that is very lovely to witness.


Rating: ****1/2 out of *****


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Thursday, October 01, 2009:
Why I, me, myself MUST HAVE "Hunter's Need" (by that Shiloh Walker writer)
Some of you may not know this about me, but I proudly stalk Shiloh Walker. I'm not ashamed of it because as far as I'm concerned, her books are just THAT good. I am completely hooked on her Hunters series, and they just keep getting better and better.

And in the interest of full disclosure, Shiloh is totally aware of my stalker tendencies, but she still puts up with me anyway *g* Even going so far as to pose for pictures as she did back in June. I guess I don't scare her much, which is probably a very good thing.

Now I just love the title of her latest Hunter book - "Hunter's Need". Because that is what my post is all about: need. I NEED to have "Hunter's Need". Not just "I would like to have", not "I should get", not even I want this book. No, it's all about NEED.

Why do I NEED this book? Well, why the hell not? This series completely rocks. Shi writes with a style that totally appeals to me as a reader. The stories are engrossing and emotional, peppered with amazing characters - each having their own distinctive voice - who struggle with real issues while dealng extraordinary abilities that they don't always have a handle on.

Shiloh has an incredibly vivid imagnation, and it shows in her stories, whether it's a straight-up contemporary, a historical with paranormal tendencies, or her Hunter series. The last one I read, "Fragile", was so moving, very character-driven. She gets you so caught up in the story that you forget for awhile that it's not real, at least not any place I've ever been to.

Here is just a taste of what I NEED to have.....

* * * * *
HIS CHALLENGE
Duke is bitter. A shapeshifter betrayed by the psychic powers of Analise Morell, he cannot forgive her for putting him in the clutches of a feral vampire, but he also can’t shake his desire for her. And when she needs a Hunter, Duke must face his demons—and hers…

HER MISSION
Desperate voices are battering Ana’s psychic shields. A serial killer with extraordinary powers is about to strike again, and the tormented souls of his previous victims are screaming for her help. But Ana can’t understand why they want her…

Their INSATIABLE desire
After what she did to him, Ana is sure Duke must be using her…but if he is, so be it. Ana can’t fight her longing for him, can’t fight the desire that’s haunted her for years. For Duke, every fiber of his soul—both the man and the cougar within—yearns to protect and possess her.…
* * * * *

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Wednesday, August 05, 2009:
Book Drive to Benefit Louisville Free Public Library
Photobucket

Book Drive

On August 4, heavy rains caused flooding in Louisville, Kentucky and the surrounding areas. The
Louisville Free Public Library’s main branch was hit hard and the damages are estimated at $1 million.

I’m putting to a book drive in effort to help.

How you can help:

Everybody:
Donations of new books, all genres.
Information about monetary donations can be found at
WFPL.

Authors & Publishers:
Donations of both signed and unsigned books. All genres, from children’s books to romance to non-fiction, etc, etc.
Signed books can be used in fundraiser purposes. Unsigned books can be used to help replenish the books that were lost due to the flood.

I have spoken with somebody with the library and at this time, they have no place to store books. However, I’m close and I will keep the books at my house until they are able to take them.

For those wishing to donate books, there are two ways you can send them. I can either receive them my post box address or a friend will receive them at her home.
If you wish to mail them via the USPS, send to:

Shiloh Walker
PO Box 976
Jeffersonville, IN
47131

For those wishing to use Fedex or UPS, send to:
LFPL Book Drive
C/O Jennifer Kennedy
20813 State Rd # 62Marysville, IN 47141


***********

Feel free to repost this information in it’s entirety.

Shiloh Walker
http://shilohwalker.com/
http://shilohwalker.wordpress.com/

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Thursday, July 02, 2009:
Book alert: "Broken" by Shiloh Walker
Photobucket


Shattered

Quinn Rafferty is working as a bounty hunter and bail bondsman in St. Louis when a new neighbor catches his eye. He’s tempted by her beauty—but he knows from experience that anyone desperate enough to live in his building is damaged goods. Besides, he has his own soul to mend before he can worry about anyone else.

Desperate

Sarah McElya is on the run, but not for the usual reasons a woman goes on the lam. She’s not an abused wife, and she’s not a criminal. But she does have a plan for her future. And as much as she finds herself attracted to her gruff, tough neighbor, she can’t risk telling him the secrets she’s hiding. There’s just too much at stake.

Driven to desire…

But Quinn must get closer to Sarah when she turns out to be the target of his new missing persons case, and he discovers that there is something more complex and dangerous to her than he thought. Now, both Quinn and Sara will have to expose their true feelings—as well as their fragile hearts—if they hope their love will survive…

I totally swiped this from Shi's blog. And yes, I am VERY excited about this one! After loving "Fragile" so much, I can't wait to read it. (My review of "Fragile").


So would you buy this book?

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Monday, April 27, 2009:
Contest Alert: Shiloh Walker's "Chains" blog tour
Want to win $100 in free books?

To help promote her upcoming release, CHAINS, author Shiloh Walker is doing a dash through some of the blogs in romanceland, leaving behind excerpts. If you'd like to get entered to win a gift certificate for $100 (your choice from the online booksellers), all you have to do is visit the blogs, read the excerpts and leave a comment. The excerpts are in order, just visit the first blog, Karen Knows Best (http://karenknowsbest.com/) and go on from there!


Chains

An all new novel of erotic suspense...

They weren't friends. They weren't enemies. The only thing the three girls had in common was the high school they went to in Madison, Ohio -- until one tragic night. Now, fifteen years later, they're returning home where passion -- and danger -- await...

Renee Lincoln was the homecoming queen -- with the perfect boyfriend and the perfect life. After that horrible night, she rebelled the only way she knew how: by submitting to her wildest fantasies...

Tall, blonde, and athletic, Lacey Talbot was a golden girl with a bright future. She's found success as a photographer, but no man has ever been able to satisfy her. No man but the bad boy she left behind...

Sherra Salinger has always looked like a princess out of some fairy tale. The books she writes, though, stem from the nightmare of that one night. And she shrinks from any man's attention--especially the one stalking her...

They're coming back to Madison -- and it won't be happy reunion. There are three men, all dangerous in a different way. And when each of them surrender their bodies to the heat, when they succumb to desire, they'll find the safety they desperately need...

Excerpt (part four)

Lacey wasn’t entirely sure it was possible to focus on something else or somebody else when Seth Salinger was around. At least not for her.

Back in high school, he had been tall, on the thin side, with that brooding, sexy aura that drove teenaged girls nuts. He was still tall but not what one could call thin—lanky, maybe. Lean, definitely. Muscled shoulders strained at the shoulders of the simple, white cotton button-down he wore, long, lean legs in faded denim. As he absently pushed his hair back from his face, she noticed his hands and wrists.

Bony wrists—one of them adorned with a simple watch with a black band, an ordinary piece that could be bought at Sears for $25. Beautiful hands, no rings, nails clipped neat, but not manicured—she was getting damn tired of looking a man who spent more time on his appearance than she did.

Seth was sexy as all get-out, but it didn’t come from a two-thousand dollar suit, hours spent at the gym, baking under some hot lights to get that warm golden tone to his skin. It was just him.

Damn, she bet he’d be fun in front of a camera. She already knew he photographed very, very well…although Seth wasn’t aware of it. Those pictures were something she hadn’t ever shown anybody and they were her best work.

If she had the chance to do it again, do it right instead of sneaking pictures from a distance, she wondered what would happen. Were those pictures another fluke? Like that night?

The pictures she’d taken of him were sheer magic, but it wasn’t a fluke. She could do it again. Something inside her, that nagging, itchy need for her camera, started to burn. A couple of hours—if she had a couple of hours, Lacey could do it.

She knew she could. A few hours and she could find it. Find that elusive magic that had danced just out of her reach for so long.

That was what she wanted—what she needed. Finding that magic, that heat, that heart.

Heart…a memory, this one much more recent, rose up to taunt her.

You do beautiful work, Lacey. But it lacks heart.

It wasn’t her work that lacked heart—it was her.

Closing her eyes, she suppressed a sigh.

Yeah. She lacked heart. She lacked heat.

Passion…


Visit It’s Not Chick Porn for the next excerpt. You can also visit Shiloh’s blog for details-the blog will be updated to include the live links for each of the participating blogs.


Disclaimer: Only one entry per household. Open to everybody, as long as the author is able to purchase/email you a gift certificate for one of the major online booksellers-Amazon, BN.com, Borders, Powell’s, etc. Winner’s name to be posted on Shiloh’s blog-author will ATTEMPT to notify the winner via email, but cannot be held accountable if her email bounces back- please make sure you enter the correct email and that you add Shiloh to your addy book to prevent problems. Void where prohibited. Please do not post to sweepstakes sites-the author reserves the right to end the contest at anytime, and likely will end it early if the contest ends up posted to sweepstakes sites.

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Sunday, April 19, 2009:
Book alert: "Chains" by Shiloh Walker


Chains
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade (May 5, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425227863
ISBN-13: 978-0425227862

An all new novel of erotic suspense...

They weren’t friends. They weren’t enemies. The only thing the three girls had in common was the high school they went to in Madison, Ohio—until one tragic night. Now, fifteen years later, they’re returning home where passion—and danger—await…

Renee Lincoln was the homecoming queen—with the perfect boyfriend and the perfect life. After that horrible night, she rebelled the only way she knew how: by submitting to her wildest fantasies…

Tall, blonde, and athletic, Lacey Talbot was a golden girl with a bright future. She’s found success as a photographer, but no man has ever been able to satisfy her. No man but the bad boy she left behind…

Sherra Salinger has always looked like a princess out of some fairy tale. The books she writes, though, stem from the nightmare of that one night. And she shrinks from any man’s attention—especially the one stalking her…

They’re coming back to Madison—and it won’t be happy reunion. There are three men, all dangerous in a different way. And when each of them surrender their bodies to the heat, when they succumb to desire, they’ll find the safety they desperately need…

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