Thursday, December 30, 2010

Trailer Thursday: Shadowfever

Randomhouse released a TV commerical for the final installment of
Karen Marie Moning's Fever series with Shadowfever.

Fever Series
Darkfever
Bloodfever
Faefever
Dreamfever
Shadowfever
(January 18, 2011)

Saturday, December 25, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 25 Winners


Thank you all so much for joining me with the 25 Days of Christmas.
I hope it got you in the festive holiday mode. Now to announce
the winners so they can one more gift that Santa might have forgot. Please
email me at usignolc(at)yahooDOTcom with your snail mail so I can get
you your Christmas gift!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!!!


The Magical Christmas Cat is Samantha


Skipping Christmas is Brooke


I'll Be Home For Christmas is Linda Henderson


The Christmas Pearl is J L Jackson


Under the Mistletoe is tanya904


This Christmas is Virgina C


Mystery for Christmas is LuAnn Morgan

Friday, December 24, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 24



Christmas with a Vampire
Anthology with Merline Lovelace, Lori Devoti, Linda Winstead Jones, Lisa Child, and Bonnie Vanak
Released December 1, 2010

Prepare for an exhilarating journey across the boundary of death into a shadowy, daring new world. As darkness falls on another year, five fanged rebels are ready to celebrate like never before.

It's a time for bloodlust and stolen kisses, for clandestine bites and forming new bonds beneath the mistletoe. Succumb to the forbidden as these powerful vampires give you a Christmas you'll never forget….

Merline Lovelace's A CHRISTMAS KISS
Lori Devoti's THE VAMPIRE WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS
Linda Winstead Jones' SUNDOWN
Lisa Child's NOTHING SAYS CHRISTMAS LIKE A VAMPIRE
Bonnie Vanak's UNWRAPPED

Thursday, December 23, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 23


Wicked Wonderland
Anthology with LuAnn McLane, Susanna Carr, and Janice Maynard
Released November 2, 2010

Three bestselling authors steam up the pages with sexy tales of women who earn spots on Santa's naughty list...

In LuAnn McLane's Hot Whisper, a woman is stranded in a small town when a sexy local offers her lodging, eggnog-and more-to wait out the cold winter night.

In Susanna Carr's Hot for the Holidays, corporate rivals become lovers, thanks to an office Christmas party gone wild.

And in Janice Maynard's Hot Arctic Nights, a B&B in the far reaches of Alaska promises bed, breakfast and beyond for the new female manager and a hot tenant.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 22


A special treat from Chloe Neill, I found a wonderful Christmas snippet from Merit and Mallory. Chloe wrote this snippet for The Knight Agency Blog so go check it out.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 21


Holiday in Death
By J.D. Robb
Released June 1, 1998

For fans of J.D. Robb's In Death series than one must not miss the 7th novel with Eve Dallas, Roarke, Dectective Dehlia Peebody, McNabb, Mavis Freestone, Feeney, Dr. Mira, and Summerset for the holidays.

None likes to be alone during the holidays. For New York's most posh dating service, Personally Yours, it is the season to bring lonely hearts together. But Lt. Eve Dallas, on the trail of a ritualistic serial killer, has made a disturbing discovery: all of the victims have been traced to Personally Yours. Eve soon enters an elite world of people searching for their one true love--and one killer searching for his next victim. From Nora Roberts writing as J.D. Robb.

Monday, December 20, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 20


I'll Be Home For Christmas
By Fern Michaels
Released September 30, 2006

The perfect holiday surprise is a yuletide treat from the beloved pen of #1 New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels...

Comfort And Joy

Ever since Angie Bradford took over her mother's gift wrap business in the Eagle Department Store, she and handsome store chief Josh Eagle have been at odds. When Josh threatens to give up on the business it's time for a miracle under the mistletoe...

The Christmas Stocking

Amy Baran is determined to raise money for a new seniors' center by harvesting Christmas trees from the smalltown Virginia farm she remembers from her childhood. Trouble is, Gus Moss has his own ideas about saving the farm his father has neglected. Neither wants to give up, but when attraction turns to romance, they just might have to give in. . .

A Bright Red Ribbon

Being dumped by your boyfriend on Christmas Eve has got to be the worst. Still, Morgan Ames promised she'd wait two Christmases for his returntonightand she always keeps her promises. But a sudden snowstorm has other ideas, including a romantic turn Morgan never imagined...

Merry, Merry

If cosmetic king Peter King thinks he's going to buy struggling veterinarian Andi Evans's family property out from under her, he's got another thing coming. This Christmas, she's ready for war...or would that be love?

Four captivating tales to warm your heart and soul and add a dash of wonder to your holiday cheer...

Sunday, December 19, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 19


Hot For the Holidays
By Lora Leigh, Angela Knight, Anya Bast, & Allyson James
Released September 29, 2009

Something passionate. Something mysterious. Something sexy. And something totally inviting.

It's the perfect gift for the holidays.

Four bestselling authors invite readers to spend the night with these never-before-published novellas spiced with sexy romance and paranormal passion. So come in out of the cold and experience the thrill of a soul-sitting new tale of the Breeds from Lora Leigh, a return to the beguiling world of the Mageverse from Angela Knight, and two more mesmerizing and unexpected stories of sensual surprises and seasonal spirits from Anya Bast and Allyson James.

Get hot for the holidays.

1. Vampire's Ball by Angela Knight
(Part of Mageverse series, #9)

2. A Little Night Magic by Allyson James

Allyson James's A Little Night Magic is a short story that is a prequel to her Stormwalker series. We met Coyote the Trickser God and very very briefly learn about about 2 paragraphs about Janet Begay who could possibly help find a girl who has been missing for a year. Otherwise, its a short story about Naomi and her ex-lover Jamison who pops back in her life after two years stating he isn't going anywhere.
I love Naomi's little girl Julie who is hearing impaired but great. I wish there were more scenes with her.

3. Sweet Enchantment by Anya Bast
(Prequel to Dark Magick series)

4. A Christmas Kiss by Lora Leigh
(Part of Breed series, #13)
This was a novella from the Wolf breeds. Hawke has known Jessica was his mate from the moment he saw her. However, in events from early books Jessica unwillingly help in an attack against Haven, the Wolf compound so she was kept in confinement for a year and even after released Jessica is not allowed to leave. She doesn't want to either, she loves Hawke but he has basically ignored her until someone ends up shooting at her. He could lose her if she doesn't tell her the truth.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 18


The Naughty List
Anthology by Cynthis Eden, Susan Fox, and Donna Kauffman
Released October 1, 2010

"All I want for Christmas" by Cynthia Eden
Good girl toy inventor Christie takes a walk on the naughty side when she sparks a no-strings fling with Santa-actually, sexy cop Jonas in a Santa suit. She loves her new -bad girl- persona, except as the holidays approach, she starts falling, and hard, for this known- -love -em and leave -em- ladies man...

This is a fun story of the shy-book nerd who is now a smart 30-year-old woman asking a Santa-Stud 'for a good time' for Christmas. Does Santa deliver? Oh ya! Her brother’s best friend comes to the Christmas party as Santa and can’t believe his luck when the girl he has wanted asks him for her Christmas wish. It looks like everyone is going to get what they want this year.

“Naughty but Nice” by Donna Kauffman
Businessman Griffin-s never believed in luck-until sassy-sweet small-town baker Melody turns his world around. Except there-s a catch: There-s no way he-ll be able to build his empire and hold on to her. His new -lucky charm- could destroy all his dreams-or make this Christmas better than he ever imagined possible-

“Tattoos and Mistletoe” by Susan Fox
Charlie returns to her hometown to fix up her aunt-s B&B, but she doesn-t count on LJ handling the renovations. Nerdy LJ pined for her in school, but now he-s grown into the town-s hottest bachelor. Charlie-s been burned before and won-t let him get close. But LJ-s determined to break down her walls and make her dearest Christmas wish come true.


-Donna Kauffman writes smart and sexy, with sizzle to spare.--Janet Evanovich
-I dare you not to love a Cynthia Eden book!--Larissa Ione

Friday, December 17, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 17 + Giveaway


Mystery for Christmas
Editor Richard Dalby
Released October 26, 2004

Twenty-Three Classic Holiday Suspence. Tales by Masters of Mystery and Suspence.

Ghosts, murders, bizarre disappearances and journeys back through time-every conceivable type of mystery can be found within the pages of Mysteries for Christmas. Writers have long been inspired by this season of peace and goodwill to tell tales of murder, mystery and the supernatural, and the

Stories in this collection range from work by writers as diverse as Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy and Muriel Spark.

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
1. Leave a comment
2. Be a follower
3. Just leave an email address

Thursday, December 16, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 16


The Twilight Before Christmas
By Christine Feehan
Released November 3, 2003

This is a Christmas story in Christine Feehan's Drake Sisters series. Its the second book in the series.

Seven sisters...and a legacy of magical secrets.

Bestselling novelist Kate Drake is one of seven sisters gifted with amazing powers of witchcraft. Returning home in time for her northern California town's annual Christmas pageant, Kate catches the spirit of the season and decides to open a bookstore in a charming but run-down historic mill. Decorated former U.S. Army Ranger Matt Granite, now a local contractor, doesn't mind working in the undeniably eerie house -- not if it means getting closer to Kate. There's something about the quiet, sensual woman that powerfully attracts him.

When an earthquake cracks the mill's foundation and reveals a burial crypt, Kate senses that a centuries-old evil has been unleashed and that it's coming after her. Though Matt vows to guard her from dusk till dawn, Kate knows she will have to summon all of her and her sisters' powers to battle the darkness threatening to destroy both Christmas and the gift of soul-searing passion her hometown hero wants her to keep forever....

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 15


Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor
By Lisa Kleypas
Releases October 26, 2010

ONE LITTLE GIRL NEEDS A FAMILY One rain-slicked night, six-year-old Holly lost the only parent she knew, her beloved mother, Victoria. And since that night, she has never again spoken a word.

ONE SINGLE MAN NEEDS A WIFE The last thing Mark Nolan needs is a six-year-old girl in his life. But he soon realizes that he will do everything he can to make her life whole again. His sister’s will gives him the instructions: There’s no other choice but you. Just start by loving her. The rest will follow.

SOMETIMES IT TAKES A LITTLE MAGIC . . .
Maggie Collins doesn’t dare believe in love again, after losing her husband of one year. But she does believe in the magic of imagination. As the owner of a toy shop, she lives what she loves. And when she meets Holly Nolan, she sees a little girl in desperate need of a little magic.

. . . TO MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE Three lonely people. Three lives at the crossroads. Three people who are about to discover that Christmas is the time of year when anything is possible, and when wishes have a way of finding the path home. . . .

This was a short Christmas story I listened on audiobook which was 4 hours and 12 minutes long. I really enjoyed, Tanya Eby, the narrator’s voices for the characters, it seemed like a good fit for each. I liked the Nolan brothers Mark, Sam, and Alex because it reminded me of the movie Three Men and a Baby where three grown men get wrapped around a little girl’s finger. Even if they aren’t ready the guys love Holly and would do anything to protect her.

Maggie is a local toy shop owner how connects with Holly through magic and imagination. Maggie also gets a connection she doesn’t understand with Mark. Mark is involved with another women but he can’t help wanting to know everything about Maggie. I really enjoyed his brooding when everyone wants Sam and Maggie to go out because they are the single ones. Sam graceful steps away from that with the threat of Mark’s I’m gonna punch you face and Maggie’s Heisman pose. I really enjoyed the very ugly bulldog, with an overbite, bad skin, wheezing, and need of a hip replacement. It was a fun story with hopes of stories for the other Nolan brothers.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Cover Love: City of Fallen Angels

The Fourth book in the Mortal Instruments:
City of Fallen Angels hits stores April 5, 2011!!!

Fun things that Cassandra pointed out on her blog:
~Clary's bright green eyes
~The Morfenstern ring around Clary's neck
~The 'second cycle' of Mortal Instruments covers by
Cliff Neilson will have 2 characters; this one is Clary and Simon.

25 Days of Christmas: Day 14


The Christmas Knight
By Michele Sinclair
Released October 1, 2010

Her Only Hope For The Season

With their father gone this Christmastide, Bronwyn de Breton and her two younger sisters are utterly vulnerable at unprotected Hunswick Castle. And their troubles are compounded when a fearsome knight arrives on the king's orders to take Hunswick as his own—and the youngest de Breton daughter as his wife.

Is A Man She's Never Met

Bronwyn would never let her little sister be forced to marry a man as rough and wild as the new lord is whispered to be. Yet someone must form an alliance with him, or all of Hunswick will be at risk. So she steps forward, pretending to be her own sister.

And A Love She Never Expected

But the new lord is not so easily fooled. He knows Bronwyn is not the woman he has promised to marry. And yet, no matter how duty-bound he may be, there is no resisting the golden-haired beauty who so fearlessly gives herself to him...and awakens a passion unlike any he's ever known...

Praise for Michele Sinclair

"Sinclair...carries readers into the hearts and minds of her hero and heroine." —Romantic Times on To Wed a Highlander

"Sensual and humorous, a winning combination that everyone can enjoy." —Hannah Howell, New York Times bestselling author on The Highlander's Bride

Monday, December 13, 2010

Movie Monday

New News

-Firelight by Sophie Jordan
“As many of you know, Mandalay has optioned the film rights to FIRELIGHT. Mandalay’s Peter Guber and Cathy Schulman are producing with Adam Stone overseeing the project and serving in some producing capacity. They’re hard at work on acquiring a screenwriter and “talent” to play the role of Jacinda. I’m giddy over some of the names that have been tossed around, but nothing I can share yet. It’s all very exciting and hopefully I’ll be able to report more news on this front soon.”

-Don’t You Wish by Roxanne St. Claire
“Roxanne’s Young Adult novel, tentatively titled Don’t You Wish and scheduled for release from Delacorte Press in 2012 has been optioned as a feature film! More details to come…but with cinematic icon Garry Marshall lined up to direct and family-fare favorite Jeff Franklin as executive producer, we are celebrating this important first step toward a possible motion picture! Stay tuned!”


-The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare
“Lily Collins has been set to star in Mortal Instruments, the first installment of the novel series City of Bones which is being directed by Scott Charles Stewart for Screen Gems. She'll play the role of Clary Fray. Collins, who followed The Blind Side by starring with Taylor Lautner in Abduction, next stars in Priest. She's repped by CAA”
Check out Cassandra Clare’s Blog Post here


Oh, I think she is a perfect choice for Clary. What do you think?

25 Days of Christmas: Day 13 + Giveaway


This Christmas
Anthology Jane Green, Jennifer Coburn, and Liz Ireland
Released November 1, 2005

This Christmas, take some time out to indulge in these sweet, sexy stories from three of your favorite authors. Because while Santa may visit but once a year, romance is the gift that keeps on giving...

"Vacation" by Jane Green
If Sarah knew moving to the suburbs would mean losing everything about her relationship that was young, romantic, and fun, she would have planted her feet firmly in the city cement. Reigniting the spark she and her husband, Eddie, once had isn't easy, especially with two kids added to the mix. And when Eddie's job sends him to Chicago indefinitely, Sarah wonders if she might be better off alone. A lot can happen during a long break from marriage. But as Christmas approaches, will Sarah recognize the gift she s been taking for granted?

"The Second Wife of Reilly" by Jennifer Coburn
Falling in love with Reilly was easy for Sarah, but marriage is proving to be a little more worrisome -- especially with Prudence, Reilly's ex, still single. Since it's the season of giving, Sarah decides to find Prudence a man of her own. But shopping for another s woman s prospective husband isn't quite as easy as whipping out a credit card at Bloomie's.

"Mistletoe and Holly "by Liz Ireland
For once, Holly is determined to fit into her family s picturesque Norman Rockwell Christmas. Even with her wry best friend Isaac along for the ride, she's got perfect boyfriend, Jason, to introduce and matching snowman sweaters all picked out. Unfortunately, the holiday spirit is on the fritz and no one is interested in perfection, including Holly. Because she s beginning to realize that Isaac looks pretty darn good under the mistletoe.

Spike the eggnog, fire up the yule log, and partake in a little holiday cheer of your own with this irresistible collection. What better way to celebrate the season?

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
1. Leave a comment
2. Be a follower
3. Just leave an email address

Sunday, December 12, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 12 + Giveaway



Under the Mistletoe
Anthology by Linda Howard and Stephanie Bond
Released November 1, 2008

BLUEBIRD WINTER by New York Times bestselling author Linda Howard
Kathleen Fields had to reach the clinic, but a Christmas blizzard left her stranded, ready to give birth. Then Derek Taliferro arrived with his doctor's skill and caring heart. Together they brought Kathleen's child into the world and discovered love, the greatest gift of all.

NAUGHTY OR NICE? by bestselling author Stephanie Bond
Eric Quinn Stanton has never let pleasure interfere with business—until now. His practice is to arrive early and incognito at a job, to see firsthand what's working… and what's not. But he can't seem to see past Cindy's beautiful green eyes or her other generous assets. And he can't stop himself from testing the general manager's skills—on the job and in the bedroom. But what will she think when she learns his true identity?

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
1. Leave a comment
2. Be a follower
3. Just leave an email address

Saturday, December 11, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 11


Under the Covers
Anthology by Crystal Jordan, Lorie O’Clare, and P.J. Mellor
Released October 1, 2009

“Naughty or Nice” by Crystal Jordan
Dayna Sharp has the perfect job, the perfect man...the perfect life. So why is the prospect of marrying Mr. Wonderful so perfectly boring? It's a question Dayna can't shake when she brings her fiancé home to meet her spectacularly un-boring family—and finds herself pursued by a bad-boy bearing gifts that could burn a hole in more than her Christmas stocking...

I really enjoyed this short story because I could relate to the girl Dayna in a way. She thought she had the perfect relationship until she brought him home for the holidays. Nathan, her finesse, was a total jerk to her family and just like me she would not put up with that either. My family means the world to me even if they are crazy, they are my crazy family. My guy has to love my family or at least respect them.

I liked how Jake, her brother’s best friend, knows exactly what Dayna needs for Christmas. Dayna has been his wet dream since as he put so nicely, “Since I was old enough to get a woody.” He is that bad boy that is so sweet you can’t resist his devilish grin.

“Nativity Island” by Lorie O’Clare
Marine biologist Mercedes Porter isn't accustomed to hot weather on Christmas—or to being half a world away from home on her favorite holiday. But here she is, stranded at a seaside lodge on a tiny island. The only other guest is a darkly mysterious, undeniably gorgeous stranger who certainly knows his way around the mistletoe—and, before long, around Mercedes...

This was an interesting short story of a woman’s spoiled Christmas plans that comes into a full island fling. Jeremy Falls the famous author or Jeremy Faulkner the hermit who wants to be alone is on the island trying to write his next best-seller when the biggest distraction lands in the room next door. An of course the intrusive cabin owner who wants to get the two together.

“Escaping Christmas” by P.J. Mellor
The best things in banker Samantha Harrison's life are her dog, her friends, and her boyfriend—pretty much in that order. But everything changes when, right after knee-buckling, tree-trimming sex, her man breaks the news that he's leaving her for another woman—walking out with her pride and her pooch. Determined to recover both, Sam soon finds herself in Christmas, Texas, handcuffed to the hottest lawman she's ever seen—and hoping for some naked justice...

Friday, December 10, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 10 + Review


Naughty and Nice
Anthology by Shannon Stacey, Megan Hart, Jaci Burton, and Lauren Dane
Releases December 6, 2010
Source: Review copy provided by NetGalley for review.

'Tis the Season for Romance
A famous singer reunites with an old flame. A couple explores their desire to be truly bound together. Newlyweds heat things up when they're trapped indoors. And sparks fly when the lights go out. Whether you are naughty or nice, you can still get what you really want for Christmas in this collection of four seasonal shorts.


Anthology includes nice novellas:

Holiday Sparks by Shannon Stacey
House-sitting for her parents seemed like a good idea, until the microwave blew up and the lights went out.

Now Chloe Burke thinks upgrading the electrical system of her childhood home while they are away would make the perfect Christmas gift. Fortunately, there’s an electrician in town who can get the job done by the holidays.
Scott Quinn has wanted to get his hands on the Burkes’ wiring for almost as long as he’s wanted to get his hands on their daughter. Chloe didn’t notice Scott back in high school, but she’s noticing him now, and soon they’re indulging in a little festive fun: no strings, no expectations. After all, Chloe plans to get out of this goldfish bowl of a town and back to her real life in Boston by New Year’s.

But Chloe and Scott discover they enjoy each other’s company just as much out of bed. Could their holiday fling turn out to be the real thing?

The nobody boy gets a chance with the hottest cheerleader from high school. What a Christmas present. Scott has changed a lot in the last 10 years but Chloe is just as beautiful as ever, however, now Chloe is noticing him. I liked that Chloe was a bitchy cheerleader and remembered the boy who gave her a dandelion. They both agree on a Holiday Fling, but can they do that without having heartbreak in the end.

I really enjoyed Scott’s well-trained German Shepard Kojak who kept Chloe’s feet warm while Scott rewired Chloe’s parent’s house. Kojak is a sweetheart who acts as Scott’s shadow. Also, in a small town the gossip moves like wildfire. Even on vacation Chloe’s mother finds out whose truck is in her driveway.

All She Wants for Christmas by Jaci Burton
Big Star, Small-town Christmas

Country singer Riley Jensen would never have returned to her small Missouri hometown if her publicist hadn’t come up with the scheme to tape a Christmas special there. So she never would have known that the man who broke her heart at eighteen—causing her to flee to Nashville—was now a widower with a seven-year-old daughter. Riley has ten years of angst-filled hit songs and Grammy awards to prove she doesn’t need Ethan Kent. But suddenly, she can’t help thinking of all she gave up by running away…

Ethan Kent knew Riley had the talent and the drive to make it as a singer. He also knew she wasn’t going anywhere if she stayed in their nowhere town for him. Then one night and one huge mistake sent her running on the road to fame. Which doesn’t mean he ever stopped loving her…

But with so much separating them, can Riley and Ethan find their way back together one magical country Christmas?

I really loved this one. Jaci gave a sweet story of a girl who ran as fast as she could from a town after seeing her boyfriend in bed with her best friend. She never looked back, never talked to either again until her publicist wanted footage for a bibliography of her hometown for the holidays. The one person she wants to avoid of course is the first one she sees, Ethan Kent. Ethan has the cutest little girl, Zoey, who is the biggest Riley Jensen fan. She is a whirl win and connects with Zoey right away.

Ethan can believe she is back. He still loves her but knows its best to avoid so she just leaves and continues her famous singing career. However, he’s a daddy that can’t say no to his little girl. She wants to see Riley Jensen then they see Riley Jensen, even if he is in hell. Ethan’s mother is one of my favorite characters. She doesn’t deal with the bullshit and says what needs to be said.
I hope Jaci writes a future novella for Ethan’s brother Brody and the feisty Tori.


And naughty novellas:

Unwrapped by Megan Hart

Newlyweds Leah and Brandon Long are finally taking a honeymoon. But just two days into their Christmas-in-Vail vacation, Leah gets run down by an out-of-control snowboarder, severely spraining her ankle. Being stuck indoors isn’t so bad though: the luxurious chalet boasts a hot tub and cozy fireplace. Besides, sitting with her feet up while Brandon serves her in every way a man can serve a woman is exactly how both of them like to spend their time.

Leah would be in heaven, if only Brandon didn’t insist on bringing up the idea of a family. She knew that kids were part of the package, but she’s not ready to make any plans just yet. Still, with kinky sex and deep conversation the only things on the agenda for the next week, Leah can’t avoid the discussion for long. Will she be ready to take her marriage to the next level in the New Year?

I was pleasantly surprised that I already knew the characters. Leah and Brandon met and fell in love in “Taking Care of Business”. This novella is Leah and Brandon’s Christmas vacation/Honeymoon. It takes place at a ski lodge but Leah not being a very good skier ends up with a sprained ankle. So more time in the bedroom means some time for changes. Brandon wants to take care of Leah, tied up and blindfolded. Can Leah do it?

I think it you didn’t read “Taking Care of Business” you can't understand what a big deal the changes in the bedroom mean. You won’t love the characters as much. I liked the story because they were already developed in my head.

Believe by Lauren Dane
Their First Christmas, Bound Together…

All Jude wants for Christmas is Rori, all to himself. It’s their first holiday season as a couple, and staying home, seeing friends and family, means they’ll be surrounded by the memory of Rori’s late husband. It’s time for Jude and Rori to create their own traditions. Time for them to fully explore their most intimate desires to dominate and submit.
Rori is thrilled when Jude whisks her away to a luxury resort in the mountains. Spending Christmas away, just the two of them, is the perfect time to show him she’s ready to give herself to him completely…

This novella was fun because it is connected to “Second Chances” and continues Rori and Jude’s relationship. I enjoyed that they were still trying to work on their relationship while dealing with Zach’s memories all around them. So to create new memories that are strickly Rori and Jude they go away for Christmas. Jude does such a good job taking care of Rori that is just enough without be smothering. This has very good D/s sex scenes.

Stories also available for purchase separately.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 9 + Giveaway


The Christmas Pearl
By Dorothea Benton Frank
Released November 1, 2007

Theodora is the matriarch of a family that has grown into a bunch of truculent knuckleheads. While she's finally gotten them all together in South Carolina to celebrate, this Christmas looks nothing like the extravagant, homey holidays of her childhood.

What happened to the days when Christmas meant tables groaning with home-cooked goodies, over-the-top decorations, and long chats in front of the fire with Pearl, her grandmother's beloved housekeeper and closest confidante?

Luckily for Theodora, a special someone who heard her plea for help arrives, with pockets full of enough Gullah magic and common sense to make Theodora's Christmas the love-filled miracle it's meant to be.

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
1. Leave a comment
2. Be a follower
3. Just leave an email address

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 8 + Giveaway



I'll Be Home for Christmas
Anthology by Linda Lael Miller, Catherine Mulvany, Julie Leto, and Roxanne St. Claire
Releases September 26, 2006

A collection of heartwarming holiday stories from today's stars of passionate romance!

This book contains 4 short Christmas stories:

"Christmas of the Red Chiefs" by Linda Lael Miller
Ms Miller delivers a holiday miracle in the bittersweet tale of a young woman who can't hide her broken heart -- or her past -- when she returns to her hometown. But a sexy widower may just help her discover the true meaning of home in "Christmas of the Red Chiefs."

"Once Upon a Christmas" by Catherine Mulvany
Ms Mulvany spins a fairy tale come true in "Once Upon a Christmas." They flirted as teenagers, but it takes time -- and some divine intervention -- to bring two star-crossed lovers together at last.

"Meltdown" by Julie Leto
Ms Leto pairs fire and ice in "Meltdown," the sensual tale of a Cuban-American PR whiz whose job description includes thawing out her CEO boss's frosty image. Will their sparks torch into flames of passion?

"You Can Count on Me" by Roxanne St. Claire(Bullet Catcher, #3)
Ms St. Claire unwraps the thrills of Christmas in New York, where a female bodyguard toys with a dangerous desire for a mysterious hunk while protecting his young daughter. It's a risky game with passion as the prize in "You Can Count on Me."

This was the first female story for the Bullet Catchers which she is perfect for. Going to New York to look after a little girl requires a Bullet Catcher with estrogen. Imagining one of the guys going the girl would be way to scary. Raquel Durant is finally getting her field work and her first assignment employer is a hunky former KGB agent daddy. Oh, Christmas might be good this year.
Read on excerpt on Roxanne's website here.

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
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Tuesday, December 7, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 7


Wolfsbane and Mistletoe
Edited by Charlaine Harris & Toni L.P. Kelner
Released October 6, 2008

Let's Face it - the holidays can bring out the beast in anyone. They are particularly hard if you're a lycanthrope. Charlaine Harris and Toni L. P. Kelner have harvested the scariest, funniest, saddest werewolf tales, by an outstanding pack of authors, best read by the light of a full moon and with a silver bullet close at hand.

Charlaine Harris, Kat Richardson, Alan Gordon, Carrie Vaughn, Patricia Briggs, Dana Stabenow, Nancy Pickard, Karen Chance, Keri Arthur, Rob Thurman, J.A Konrath, Donna Andrews, Simon R. Green, & Dana Cameron all have stories.


I really enjoyed Keri Arthur, Patricia Briggs, Karen Chance and Kat Richardson's novellas. Karen Chance gives a story from Lia de Croissets who is a main character that has multiple novellas. Patricia Briggs gives a story from David Christiansen, mentioned in Moon Called, point of view. It was a heart warming story. Kat Richardson's story had my jaw dropping in a funny-I-can't-believe-it-way that the werewolf ate Rudolph. I couldn't believe it. Really, who eats a raindeer. Santa now is down a raindeer and its Christmas Eve. I guess a werewolf is leading his sled tonight.

The stories haven't read yet but want too iss Carrie Vaughn's #2.2 book in the Kitty series where she spends a Christmas alone and meets another rogue wolf. I need to start this series first though.

Monday, December 6, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 6


A White Cougar Christmas
By Eliza Gayla
Released 2008

Restless and alone on Christmas Eve, Niki decides it’s time to scratch the itch and heads into a nearby town for some action. Once there, it isn’t sex she finds, but a fight instead, that is until tall, dark and handsome intervenes…

Dean recognizes the stunning but surly Cougar for what she is the minute she gets close. Now it’s up to him to show her just how far a night of passion can go

Sunday, December 5, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 5 + Giveaway


Skipping Christmas
By John Grisham
Released October 12, 2004

#1 New York Times Bestseller. Now a major motion picture. Christmas with the Kranks starring Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis.

Imagine a year without Christmas. No crowded malls, no corny office parties, no fruitcakes, no unwanted presents. That’s just what Luther and Nora Krank have in mind when they decide that, just this once, they’ll skip the holiday altogether. Theirs will be the only house on Hemlock Street without a rooftop Frosty; they won’t be hosting their annual Christmas Eve bash; they aren’t even going to have a tree. They won’t need one, because come December 25 they’re setting sail on a Caribbean cruise. But, as this weary couple is about to discover, skipping Christmas brings enormous consequences–and isn’t half as easy as they’d imagined.
A classic tale for modern times, Skipping Christmas offers a hilarious look at the chaos and frenzy that have become part of our holiday tradition.

Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
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3. Just leave an email address

Saturday, December 4, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 4

Holiday Seduction
By Jaci Burton and Lauren Dane

UNWRAPPED
By Jaci Burton

Amy's kind of fantasies wouldn't cut it in the straight-laced law firm where she's fought her way to partnership. And she refuses to let a younger man use her to advance in the firm. Justin might be brilliant, gorgeous and sexy, but he's firmly implanted in the look-but-don't-touch realm. Until a corporate acquisition in Hawaii over Christmas gives Justin the opportunity to show Amy he's interested in her as a woman. And he has the ideal plan to help unwrap the perfect Christmas gift for Amy.

I would not mind a vacation in Hawaii if it was with Justin either. I was surprise what Justin had planned but no one was complaining.

TO DO LIST
By Lauren Dane

Since she could pick up a pencil, Belle has used lists to map out her life. But now, she realizes the life she thought she wanted exacts too high a price. Exhausted, she heads home for Christmas to make a new to-do list. She didn't factor in Rafe, her brother's best friend kissing her under the mistletoe! Belle finds herself with a whole new set of goals to balance with what she thought she always wanted. Rafe's plan is to seduce Belle back home where she belongs.

I loved this short story by Lauren. It would make a perfect Hallmark movie. Rafe knows he wants Belle will do anything to make her realize she needs to change things in her life to include him and make herself happy. I loved both families and how close they were.

Friday, December 3, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 3 + Giveaway


The Magical Christmas Cat
Anthology by Lora Leigh, Erin McCarthy, Nalini Singh, and Linda Winstead Jones
Releases October 7, 2008

Put a little meow in their stocking this year with these tales of Christmas and felines-from beloved bestselling authors!

New York Times bestselling author Lora Leigh and top-selling authors Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, and Linda Winstead Jones have a special gift for readers this year: heartwarming holiday stories featuring passionate romance, paranormal adventure, and a distinctly alluring feline touch. With four new stories-including one featuring Lora Leigh's genetically altered Feline Breeds-this is a collection packed with more surprises than Christmas morning, and more chills than the snowiest winter night...

"Christmas Heat" by Lora Leigh (Breeds, #17)
"Christmas Bree" by Erin McCarthy (Murphy Sisters, #2)
"Stroke of Enticement" by Nalini Singh (Psy-Changeling #5.5)
"Sweet Dreams" by Linda Winstead Jones


Giveaway: Through out the year I found holiday stories in used-book stores, library sales, yard sales and goodwill places to save to read when the season started. Now it’s the season of giving so I am giving away the copy I found. So it is USED but in good condition. If you want to enter to win I will announce winners after 25 Days of Christmas are over.
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2. Be a follower
3. Just leave an email address

Thursday, December 2, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 2


A Season of Seduction
By Jennifer Haymore
Released October 1, 2010

This is a holiday season novel in Jennifer's Tristan Family series. It is the third book in the series with A Hint of Wicked and A Touch of Scandal coming first.

Although the widowed Lady Rebecca has sworn off marriage, men are another matter. London's cold winter nights have her dreaming of warmer pursuits-like finding a lover to satisfy her hungry heart. Someone handsome, discreet, and most importantly as uninterested in marriage as she is. Someone like Jack Fulton.

A known adventurer and playboy, Jack seems like the perfect choice. There's just one problem: Jack isn't interested in an affair. He needs the beautiful, mysterious Lady Rebecca to be his wife. And he doesn't have much time to persuade her. A secret from Jack's past is about to surface, and by Christmas Day he'll be either married to Rebecca or dead.

December Author Signings in NJ/Philly Area

Who doesn't love author signings. If you are in the New Jersey or Philadelphia Area here are some of my favorite authors that will be visiting.

Cyn Balog (Sleepless) and Jennifer Murgia (Angel Star)
Date: December 4, 2010 at 2:00-4:00PM
Venue: Waldenbooks
Location: Palmer Park Mall, Easton, PA
Type: Author Signing

Cyn Balog SLEEPLESS Tour
Date: December 12, 2010 at 1:00-3:00PM
Venue: Borders Express - Exton Square Mall 610-363-5036
Location: 298 Exton Square, Exton, PA 19341
Type: Signing with KidLit Author Club

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

25 Days of Christmas: Day 1 + Review


Winter Wishes
By Vivi Andrews, Vivian Arend, and Moira Rogers
Released November 6, 2010
Source: Review copy provided by NetGalley for review.


A Twist on Tradition

A woman has the Christmas Eve from Hell. Two cat shifters play naughty games. And a witch brings out the beast inside the man. The magic of the season takes on a whole new meaning in these three fantastic—and festive—novellas from some of the best voices in paranormal romance.


“Tangled Tinsel” by Vivian Arend


She’s the cat’s meow, and he’s ready to pounce!

Five miles of leather-clad leg is all it takes to lure Kyle Branegan out from his carefully hidden lifestyle as part of the Cougar Corp, a secret branch of the Shifter Enforcer League. He’s hoping for a night of fun and frolic, cat-style, no strings attached. With a sultry swing of her hips, Eloise Scott tangles him up in her ball of tricks, and just when he thinks he’s about to get lucky, she cuffs him--naked—in her bed.

An undercover cop in the human police force, El’s been given a top-secret mission to keep the big cat under her paw until he’s needed to testify in court in the New Year. Her decision to take him home for a quiet Christmas in her sleepy hometown turns out to be far more interesting than she expected. Her parents are suddenly rich, her old boyfriend is sniffing around and all six-feet-plus of sexy cougar male is sleeping in her bed.

And that’s before they announce their fake engagement….

Oh, the opening scene had me totally fooled about El’s personality just as it fooled Kyle. She seemed like a cat who was totally unrestricted with her sexuality but in reality she tries to be more human and caged her cat so well that when she lets it out it’s the most fun she had…ever.

Kyle is enamored with El just like you as a reader will be. When she pissed, happy, thoughtful, in any mode he finds her hot and intriguing. I liked how the relationship grew in his eyes to more than just sex; he wanted to spend real quality time with her. She has real fears about getting to close to a guy because she doesn’t want to be like any other female cat giving up her career to pop out kittens. Which is understandable for her, but I like how her character grows.


“No Angel” by Vivi Andrews

When Sasha’s boyfriend, Jay, is sucked through a fiery vortex to Hell, an angel reveals that Sasha;s been chosen as the Champion of Virtue in the battle for his immortal soul. As a perennial offender on Santa’s naughty list, Sasha can’t believe she’s anyone’s idea of a girl fighting on the side of the angels. But if she doesn’t save Jay, he’ll be stuck in Hell forever!

Jay—aka Jevroth—isn’t surprised to find himself back in Hell. His visa to visit the mortal plane expired three months ago, but to steal more time with Sasha he’s been ignoring his mother’s demands that he come home to spend time with his new stepfather: Lucifer.

Sasha has until dawn on the twenty-fifth of December to fight the Legions of Hell and rescue Jay, or be trapped there for eternity herself. But now she must decide if the lying son-of-a-demon is even worth saving…

Sasha and Jay are a really fun couple with witty repartee that had me cracking up. Sasha has some one liners that were classic. Jay has a demon cousin Verin who have great conversations. I thought when reading the description I wouldn’t love the story but I was wrong. Vivi Andrews was a new author for me and this very fun story is a reason for me to pick up more stories by her.

“Freeze Line” by Moira Rogers

She can’t survive in his world; he can’t stay sane in hers.

A twenty-first century ice age dulls the magic that emanates from the earth. Shane Sullivan is a lone wolf above the freeze line. He has no desire to join the packs that range closer to the border, where feral instincts can turn a man into a monster. Not until the winter solstice, when he stumbles across a dying witch who needs his help to get back to her people—and her magic—in the south.

Nadia is a powerful woman in her own world, but she’s been drained by her escape from captivity in a northern lab. She knows it’s foolhardy to trust a werewolf, but her only chance to survive the vast white wilderness. The farther south they travel, the harder it is for Shane to keep the beast within under control, and as their mutual attraction intensifies, Nadia’s no longer sure she wants him to.

This was a very simple story with only the two characters, Nadia and Shane. In this world, the Earth gives or takes power from Witches and werewolves depending on how close they are to the borders. Nadia seems weak in the beginning because she has just escaped a compound where they were using her for experiments and being so far North the Earth is taking all her power. However, with Shane’s help she gets stronger as the move South.

Shane is afraid of the monster inside of him so he keeps to himself and stays North so he doesn’t become wild like others of his kind. When he notices a stranger on the road freezing he doesn’t hesitate on helping her. He may think he is a monster but he is sweet and gentle. The tension, sexual tension, grows between these two as they travel south.

December Book Releases

Here are some of the books being released this December I can't wait for. Maybe if I am really good Santa will bring them to me.

No Place to Run (KGI, #2)
By Maya Banks
Releases December 7, 2010

The last person Sam Kelly expected to save was Sophie Lundgren. Once they shared a brief, intense affair while Sam was undercover and then she vanished. She's spent the last few months on the run, knowing that any mistake would cost her both her life and that of their unborn child. Now she's resurfaced with a warning for Sam: this time, he's the one in danger.

My Fair Succubi (Succubus Diaries, #3)
By Jill Myles
Releases December 28, 2010

IT SUCKS TO BE HER...

Living as a succubus has a bit of a learning curve, but with sexy fallen angel Noah to scratch her sensual Itch, Jackie Brighton is finally starting to feel ahead of the game. She almost doesn’t miss her gorgeous vampire master Zane – or his sinful, teasing mouth. She’s trying to convince herself of that, anyway.

But Jackie’s past mistakes catch up with her, spinning her life out of control once more. Just as her friend Remy’s inner demon comes out to play, Noah and Jackie are arrested by the angelic Serim Council. When Jackie seizes the chance to escape, she falls right into Zane’s waiting arms. As she’s pulled into a game of cat and mouse between vampires and angels, she finds she must also finally choose between the two men in her life. Can she decide between Noah and Zane, or will she lose everything she’s ever wanted? Because there’s more at stake than just her heart...

Wolf Fever (Heart of the Wolf, #6)
By Terry Spear
Releases December 7, 2010

Sixth in the hugely popular paranormal series featuring real-life wolf behavior from award-winning author

Fate turned nurse Carol Woods into a wolf, but she refuses to let being a lupus garou define her life. Ordered by her pack leader to find a mate and commit to shifting, there is only one gray wolf that catches Carol's interest; but Chaz McKinley makes it very clear that unless she's willing to accept what she is, he wants nothing to do with her. When a virus outbreak leaves local pack members trapped in their wolf form, will Chaz and Carol learn to trust each other before it's too late for the pack and their one chance at true love?