Saturday, September 17, 2011

Caressed by Moonlight by Amanda J. Greene

Title:Caressed by Moonlight (Rulers of Darkness #1) 
Source: Requested review
Genre: Historical paranormal romance- Vampire





Dorian Vlakhos is no ordinary aristocrat. He is a vampire king, who will do anything to save his clan from complete annihilation, before an ancient curse can claim his immortal life.

Penniless and orphaned, Victoria Kingston has nothing to bring to a marriage, yet she must shackle an unsuspecting gentleman into marriage by the end of the month or forfeit her rights as guardian of her younger sister. With the help of her dearest friend, Victoria begins her hunt, and vows to stay far away from the dark, mysterious, Prince Vlakhos.

After meeting the beautifully innocent Miss Kingston, Dorian had to have her. He would do absolutely anything to make Victoria his. One sweet stolen kiss would bring them together while a force, more powerful than any vampire would bind them for all eternity. But treachery, war, and death rule Dorian’s dark world and Victoria would be fortunate to survive. 






Very enjoyable characters and great setting. If your one for a Regency vampire, you need to give this one a try. This is a good flirty read.

 My problems that are minor. I felt like the author could have gone into the detail more on what was going on around them and about them. I also felt lost or confused during the first chapters on the timing. This is a new author that will get better in these minor issues as she grows in writing. I would recommend this one for anyone to try for yourself .

Promo and giveaway of Betraying The Pack by Eve Langlais





Escaping a kidnapping duo, Bailey runs into a naked man in the middle of the woods. And he’s not alone.

Rescued by a quad of hunks, then kept against her will, she doesn’t know what to think or do—other than scream that is—when she discovers they are werewolves. Even more frightening, they want her as their mate despite her human status.

But there’s more to Bailey than meets the eye, and she comes to the attention of an evil force that wants to use her. Can Bailey keep herself from his clutches, or will he somehow force her to betray the pack?

And just how does a girl raised with human morals come around to accepting pack law which states females can choose up to four mates, and more shocking, take them to her bed, all at once? 

There is no male on male interaction. 

Excerpt:

She sprinted, arms pumping, chest heaving, her breathing coming in whimpering pants while her blood surged through her body. Floating like the wind, her bare feet seemed to barely touch the ground and didn’t register the debris in her path. She tore through the trees and bramble with no clear destination in mind other than escape. She ran as if her life depended on it because she knew that if she didn’t, she would die ,felt that with a certainty in the marrow of her bones and a chilling fear that made her gulp air in harsh sobs.

Behind her, the crackling of fallen leaves and steady thumps signaled pursuit, but it was the baying, the exultant voices of the predators chasing her, raised in a chorus, that made her skin pimple. Not the barking of dogs, although they would have proven dangerous on their own. The eerie howling reminded her of . . .

Wolves? Seriously? A hysterical giggle got caught in her throat at the thought she might have escaped death at human hands only to possibly find it in the jaws of an animal. But only if they caught her.

It surprised her that she’d found the energy to flee. After all, she’d been drugged and fallen down a flight of stairs. She would have expected to feel weak. Instead, she discovered strength, a stamina unlike any she’d ever known. Stranger, she didn’t feel any pain from her surely bruised body. Then again, she’d heard adrenaline could make a person do just about anything. Throw in a need for survival, and she’d probably leap buildings too if they ended up in her path.

Movement out of the corner of her eye caught her attention. She turned her head sideways and stumbled as the yellow glowing eyes, tinged in red, of a predator met hers. As if her attention were a signal, it veered and leapt at her.

A scream escaped her as the heavy body hit her in the side, taking her to the ground. The impact made her grunt, and her breath left her in a whoosh. Fingers scrabbling at the dirt, limbs thrashing, she only managed to turn herself until she lay on her back. The wolf unfortunately followed, his heavy body astride hers.

Instinct made her push her hands up to grasp at the underside of the creature’s jaws as it snapped at her. Foiled, it growled, low and menacing. Bailey whimpered in fear, struggling against the heavy body and fighting to keep its slavering jaws away.

Hysteria made her eyes water, and she keened, a forlorn sound that she scarcely recognized as coming from her. She didn’t know how long she could keep the beast at bay and wondered why she bothered. Did she seriously think she could outwrestle a wolf?

The thought no sooner crossed her mind than the body atop hers went tumbling sideways as something hit it. Bailey lay there panting for a moment, incomprehension not allowing her to register what she saw at first.

Eyes adjusted to the darkness to a certain extent, she peered in disbelief. A second wolf, or a huge dog, had joined the fray, but instead of aiding the first beast, the new wild canine snapped at it. Even more peculiar, her furry rescuer’s eyes shone a vivid green. The black-haired beast caught her gaze and tossed its head at her, as if signaling her away.

Impossible and surely a product of her wishful mind, but Bailey obeyed anyway, scrambling to her feet and taking off again. The sounds of primitive battle receded as she resumed her race through the forest. However, she hadn’t left danger behind. The number of baying voices seemed to treble, and the wetness of her fearful tears almost made her blind.

The sound of pursuit, crackling leaves and snapping branches, approached once again, and she whimpered. She’d gotten lucky once. She doubted she’d get lucky again.

Head craned backward, her eyes darted about, frantically seeking the approaching menace. Distracted, she ended up missing the solid trunk in front of her, but she felt it as she hit it full-on and bounced back. Not a tree, she belatedly realized, but scorching, smooth skin.

A shriek escaped her as hands grasped her before she fell. Caught! Her strident wail almost sounded like a howl.

“Shh, darling. It’s okay now. I’ve got you.”

The soothing words didn’t penetrate her panic, and she thrashed against her captor. He tightened his arms around her, plastering her to his chest, murmuring softly, until finally, with a deep sob, she stopped fighting and she realized who held her.

A familiar musky scent surrounded her, one she clearly remembered even though she’d only briefly encountered it once before. “G-Gavin?” she hiccupped.

“Yes, darling. It’s me. I’ve been looking for you.”

“Why?” The simple question slipped from her.

“Because you needed to be rescued.”

She met his words with a hysterical laugh before tears flowed anew from her as his words touched her and lifted some of her despair. Who’d have thought someone cared enough to look for me?

However, the warmth of his words proved fleeting as a chill ran through her. The reality of what she’d run from crowded her mind. “We have to leave,” she sobbed, trying to turn her head and peer into the darkness.

He wouldn’t let her glance away. Cupping his hands around her face, he held her gaze. “You’re safe now, darling. I won’t let anyone hurt you. You have my word on that.”

Bailey ignored the inner voice that wondered what he was doing wandering around the woods in just the right place and pretended to not notice the fact he was just as naked as she was. Even amidst her panic and fear, she couldn’t help noting his smooth, muscular body pressing against hers, and his . . .

A noise distracted her, and he released her face, allowing her to turn and peek. Mouth hanging open, and her belly clenching into a now familiar knot of fear, she noted the black wolf that came trotting out of the woods with familiar green eyes. Even in the darkness, she noticed the muzzle appeared matted and damp—with blood?

A whimper escaped her, and Gavin stroked his hand soothingly down her back, but that didn’t stop her from crying out again as the green-eyed canine was followed out of the gloomy forest by another black-haired wolf and a lighter-coated one. Three wolves converging on her?

A scream finally managed to wend its way past the constrictive barrier of her throat.

Now, if you guys will excuse me I have got to read this one after posting this, LOL..





Eve is giving away one eCopy of Betraying the Pack to one lucky commenter. Please leave a email. 


Giveaway rules 

Review The Demon of Anwwn by Ruty Aisling

Title: The Demon of Anwwn
Author: Ruty Aisling
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: eBook; 270 pages
Release Date: August 2, 2011



When an immortal evil is evoked in a small New England town to destroy an ancient bloodline Arianrhod Danann and her lover risk more than their lives as they draw on the secret rites of two legendary cultures, those of the ancient Egyptians and those of the Celtic Druids, to defeat it.

After the brutal murder of her Grandmother, Arianrhod returns home only to be thrust into a world of witchcraft and black magic. There she must choose between her life in cosmopolitan Boston, or assume her birthright as the head of a clan of sorcerers whose ancestors escaped the Salem Witch Trails.

Descended from the mythic Celtic race of the Tuatha de Danann, Arianrhod is plagued by erotic memories from a former life in ancient Egypt. Through the combined magical systems of these two vastly different cultures the evil may be confronted. To do this she must decide whether to follow her heart and the man she loves or perform the ancient sexual rite of the 'Dream' with the man she recognized from her life in ancient Egypt. Only this ritual can bring together the forces needed to defeat the shape-shifting demon who stalks her and threatens all of Whitewood.




Rating-

Sexual-


My Review:

Arianrhod, known as Arian to many, comes from a rich history that extends over two very distinct cultures. Visions of a past life plague her just as she receives devastating news that brings her back to her hometown. Thus begins her journey into a world she knew she would eventually embrace, just never expecting to do so as soon as she has.

Overall, I liked this book. The idea of the story is enriched by the amount of history and mythology that was obviously researched to bring it to life. There are times when parts of the story goes into unnecessary details, especially during the first few chapters. This tends to bog the book down at first because a lot of information is being thrown at you; it also seems that a couple chapters seem to jump from one time to another without an easy transition.

Also, If you are looking for a book brimming with romance with the paranormal intertwined, this is not the book for you. The book reads more as an ensemble piece rather than a romance.

Arian is very much the heroine, but there is never a clear hero. There are three men in Arian's life as the story progresses, eventually going down to two, but it's hard to root for one or the other as her true love or even truly see the connections between them. We get snatches here and there, but no real romance involved. The steamy rating stems from two scenes of graphic sex: one scene between Arian and one of the men and another between two other characters.

Right off the bat, I will say this is book one of a series, which is obvious with how abruptly it ends. The story is interesting enough to me that I would like to read the next book to see how it unfolds. There is a lot of promise. If you are looking for a good paranormal story with some romance thrown in, you'll enjoy this book.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Review My Wild Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Title: My Wild Highlander
Source: Author request
Genre: Historical romance
Length: Novel




Lady Angelique Drummagan, a half-Scottish, half-French countess, has suffered much pain and betrayal in her past. She wants nothing to do with the sensual Scottish warrior that the king has ordered her to marry because the rogue could never be a faithful husband, but she has little choice in the matter. Dangerous, greedy enemies threaten her from all sides and she’s in dire need of his protection.

Sir Lachlan MacGrath, known as Seducer of the Highlands, possesses a charming wickedness and canny wit which has earned him much popularity. After the king decrees that he wed the fiery hellion, Lachlan discovers there is one woman who can resist him—Angelique. Can he break through her icy façade and melt her heart, or will the dark secrets lurking in her past not only cost them their future together, but their very lives?






Vonda does it again with an excellent fast pace story. I was really hesitant in reading this one because as most of you know I don’t get along with historical heroes that are in every woman’s skirt, but… this story was nothing like I though it would be and it wasn’t long before I fell for Lachlan and all of his charm, he is a true highlander hero. This is a story with twist and turns and a great romance between two that are nothing alike.

People can change from their ways, right? Well, you have to read this one and find out how one lady name Angelique changed a rakes ways. The catch is who really changed who. Yep, there is somewhat of a twist to this story if you read the fine lines.

The romance between Lachlan and Angelique is stressful at times and at times it’s so hot your fanning yourself. I loved seeing them grow together as the story grew.

I recommend this story for any historical highlander romance reader to try.

Review Nocturne by Syrie James

Title: Nocturne
Author: Syrie James
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 288 pgs
Release Date: August 2, 2011
Nocturne Book Cover


When Nicole Whitcomb's car runs off a Colorado mountain road during a blinding snowstorm, she is saved from death by a handsome, fascinating, and enigmatic stranger.

Snowbound with him for days in his beautiful home high in the Rockies, she finds herself powerfully attracted to him. But there are things about him that mystify her, filling her with apprehension.

Who is Michael Tyler? Why does he live alone in such a secluded spot and guard his private life so carefully? What secret--or secrets--is he hiding?

Nicole has secrets of her own and a past she is running from--but Michael understands her better than anyone she has ever known. Soon, she is falling as deeply in love with him as he is with her--a profoundly meaningful experience that is destined to change their lives forever.

As the sexual tension between them builds, however, the clues mount up. When Nicole learns her host's terrifying secret, there is nowhere for her to run but into the blizzard raging outside, and Michael may be the only one who can save her life.

Bat Divider


Rating -
An Alpha Howl

Sexual -
Steamy

My Review:

A poignant, heart-wrenching love story which tells the story of an unlikely romance between a man with secrets and the woman who comes to love him.

When she wakes up, Nicole sees a gorgeous but aloof man. She feels flutters in her tummy when she hears his English accent. Strangely, while seeming to be concerned with her health, he stands as far as possible from her. He seems to be attracted to her and then repulsed by her.

Michael values his privacy, spending his days writing and woodworking. When he pulls Nicole from the wrecked car, he first notes the blood. Then realizes how pretty she is, even covered in blood. He feels attraction and lust for the first time in a very long time.

They both have secrets. In a moment of passion, Michael kisses Nicole. When he pulls back, she is dazed and notices three things: the light is flickering, his eyes appear red and he has sharp looking teeth. This, when taken into account with several of Michael's other idiosyncrasies, leads Nicole to a conclusion that has her freaking out and taking off on his cross country skis in the middle of a snow storm.

James' characters came alive for me in this engrossing story. This is another book I read in one sitting. I cried like a baby at the unexpected ending. Didn't see that one coming.

I think paranormal romance fans will enjoy this story.

WildAboutBones

Review Destined by Allison Kraft

Title: Destined
Author: Allison Kraft
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Paranormal Time Travel Romance
Format: Paperback, 290 pgs
Release Date: August 24, 2011
Destined Book Cover

While flying across the Atlantic on the centennial anniversary of the Titanic's tragic maiden voyage, Apolline Greer, last in a long line of vampire hunters, finds herself suddenly transported from her airliner cabin to an eerily familiar ocean liner cabin—as well as the entirely unfamiliar body of her ancestor, Noelle Greer. Upon learning that she is, in fact, on board the very ship she’s been fascinated with all her life, she knows there's only one thing to do: get off as soon as possible.

But whether by destiny, freak coincidence or a really vivid dream, Apolline finds that her trip back in time comes with three very good reasons to stay on board: Alexander Walker, a handsome and charming fellow vampire hunter; Cristof, the vampire that has tormented her family for generations and very likely killed her own mother; and Sasha, the vampire Noelle was sent to kill.

Time, however, is not on Apolline's side. The Titanic is on a collision course with destiny, and she only has four days to complete her quest. What seemed like more than enough time at the start quickly becomes too short as she finds that hunting vampires on a luxury ocean liner is much more difficult than she expected. Sasha and Cristof become more elusive as each day passes, while her feelings for Alexander become increasingly complicated. As that fateful night approaches, will she regret her decision to stay and witness history first-hand?

Bat Divider

Rating -
An Alpha Howl

Sexual -
Flirty

My Review:

Vampires, vampire hunters, the Titanic, time travel into the past and not one but two romances fill the pages of this paranormal romance. Told first person from the female lead's point of view, this is a humorous yet poignant story.

One of the funny lines of the story illustrates what a present day female vampire hunter suddenly thrust a 100 years into the past might think: "Forget vampires; turn-of-the-century women’s undergarments had just taken over as the epitome of evil as far as I was concerned."

Apolline, Titanic enthusiast and lonely vampire hunter with no friends or family, only goes after the vampires whose bloodlust gets out of hand. She has special genes that allow her to track and slay much bigger and faster opponents. She is the last of her line and she sometimes wonders if she'll ever meet another slayer. She's been having the same dream over and over again for as long as she remembers. On flight home to Chicago from Belfast, the plane takes a nosedive, she passes out and wakes in a small cabin in someone else's body in clothing from a different century but the man calls her Miss Greer. She finds paperwork stating she's on the Titanic and her instructions to slay a vampire on board named Sasha.

She meets another slayer on board ship as well as her vampire nemesis, Cristof, four days before the ship is to hit an iceberg. She also finds love during these four days.

Kraft not only brings her characters to life with a great plot but also paints a picture of what life on the Titanic might have been like.

I laughed and cried while reading this thoroughly enjoyable story which, while flirty, has no sex -- something paranormal romance fans aren't used to. It also has Kraft's interesting research notes at the end which talks about people on the ship as well as other details.

I think fans of paranormal romance, time travel into the past, vampires and the Titanic will like this story.

WildAboutBones

Thursday, September 15, 2011

ARC Review of Embrace the Night (Phoenix Files: Book 2) by Alexandra Kane

Title: Embrace the Night
Author: Alexandra Kane
Source: Author Requested Review
Genre: African American Paranormal Romance
Format: ebook Novella – 164 pgs
Release Date: September 29, 2011

Blurb:
John Groves is a professor of World History in Raleigh by day. But outside the world of academia, he uses his special talents as a telekinetic to fight crime as a member of PHOENIX.
Tatiana Yates owns a beauty shop in downtown Durham. After leaving the hot curlers and shampoo bowl behind, she releases the tigress with, running free in the forests around RTP. And ripping the bad guys a new one as a seasoned PHOENIX operative. 
When the two are paired together to solve the mysterious disappearance of priceless artifacts from the North Carolina's Museum of History, can they fight their fiery attraction long enough to get the job done?



Rating-


Sexual- 

Review:
Tatiana is a fiery shifter that takes charge of every situation she’s put in. When she is put as the superior officer to lead a team to solve a series of robberies, she immediately butts heads with John Groves. John is a telekinetic history teacher that tries his hardest to push Tatiana’s buttons. The sexual tension between the two is evident throughout the story, and their hot night together just makes it that much more prevalent. Together, with the help of their team, they use everything they have to find out who is behind the robberies.
Embrace the Night is the second book in the Phoenix Files series. Reading the book made me want to go back and buy the first one in the series. Although I’m sure reading the first book would make a few things make sense, it is not imperative to read it to understand the book.







Review Bound by Blood by P.A. Lupton

Title: Bound by Blood (The Garner Witch #1)
Author: P.A. Lupton
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Paperback, 360 pgs
Release Date: July 21, 2011
Bound by Blood Book Cover

FBI agent and psychic, Brianna Reece, descends from an ancient and powerful bloodline of witches, only she doesn’t know it. But now that legacy has come back to bite her—literally.

In the shadows of night in Denver Colorado, a serial killer is hunting women, and FBI agent Brianna Reece is hunting the killer. Unlike any case she’s worked before, Brianna can’t ignore the prickling at the back of her neck when she glimpses the resemblance she shares with the victims. The investigation begins to touch even closer to home when it is revealed that all of the victims were also psychic.

Complicating matters further, Brianna is captivated by the FBI’s prime suspect Nathan Donovan. Though she senses he is hiding something from her, the attraction she feels for him is compelling, and unlike anything she’s ever experienced. Through a chance twist of fate, Nathan learns of Brianna’s ancestry and is forced to divulge secrets to Brianna that will change her life forever.

When she learns that the killer is an evil vampire, and he’s now set his sights on her, Nathan alone holds the key to awakening her dormant powers. Now he must race to teach her how to control her emergent gifts before she becomes the next victim.
Bat Divider

Rating -
a pack howl

Sexual -
Steamy

My Review:

4.5 Stars!!
Vampires, witches, FBI Agents, a serial killer, murder, betrayal and romance come together in this first of a new series by P. A. Lupton. Written in first person from the point of view of the female lead, Lupton adds to the traditional mythos of both vampires and witches. With several interesting twists and turns, this has a very good story line and fully developed characters.

Gotta love a story that can work in references to not only Anne Rice, the X-Files and Buffy, the Vampire Slayer but also classic rock ballads - Heatwave’s Now and Forever; now that takes me back.

Nathan, the male lead, is stunned when he finds out who Brianna really is and that she doesn't really know who she is other than the basics which she has just learned from her father. He tells Brianna “I feel a strange … connection to you...” Nathan turns her world upside down in so many ways it's like she's on an amusement ride. He is further amazed when she tells him “'Okay...” [rolling her] eyes sarcastically ... 'Then, bite me.'”

Brianna, humorous and quick to anger FBI agent, can sense things about people - she's an Empath. She is also a pistol - she decked her new partner, Morrison, before she knew who he was. When she meets Nathan, she "noticed three things at once: First, the alluring scent that filled the room was him. Second, he was undeniably the most drop dead gorgeous man [she] had ever laid eyes on. And third, he was the source of the pulsating charge in the room. His aura literally vibrated like nothing [she’d] ever seen or felt before, it was as if lightning were contained in the body of a man ... Great, his voice was just as destructive to [her] libido as his touch, it was like pure sex!"

From the very beginning there is a steamy chemistry between Brianna and Nathan. And the sex between Brianna and Nathan rivals that of Lynsay Sands' Argeneau series mates who pass out because the sex is so good.

Even though this is a nice long well developed story, I was so captivated by the story, I read it in one day. I think fans of the paranormal romance, vampire and witch genres will enjoy this story.

WildAboutBones

“Awaken Your Inner Witch Costume Contest” by Regan Hastings



Halloween is right around the corner – and what a fun way to live out our fantasies for a night! To help you celebrate, I’m holding the “Awaken Your Inner Witch Costume Contest” for the Best and Most Pathetic Halloween Costumes. Email your picture with “Best Costume” or “Pathetic Costume” in the subject line to guesswho@reganhastings.com before September 30. The picture must be of you, but it can be of you at any age.

On September 30, I’ll post the pictures in two separate albums at www.facebook.com/reganhastings for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to tell your friends to come click like! The winner in each category will receive a copy of VISIONS OF MAGIC, Book 1 of The Awakening, and delicious brownies from Fat Witch Bakery in New York.

(The contest is open to international fans, who, if they win, will receive a $25 e gift card to Amazon.com in place of the other prizes.)



If you want to post the contest to your blog between September 15-30, please let me know so I can send you the JPG.

Thanks,
Regan Hastings/Maureen Child

18 and over giveaway book blogger giveaway hop Sept 16th- 18th



Hop runs the 15th to the 18th at midnight.

Welcome to the 18 and over giveaway hop.  I have a lot of 18 and over book and swag that needs a good home;)

First off I have two erotic books. Both books include heroines doing the share thing. You cant be shy for these LOL.

Animal Attraction by Charlene Teglia
Beauty Emerges by Dominique Adair



The next three are a little more tapered down, except for that Jennifer Ashley book its hot LOL

Karen Hawkins -Scandal in Scotland
Jennifer Ashley- Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
Poisoned Kisses - Stephanie Draven 


Last I have a bunch of swag a few items are autographed. 


Rules for the giveaway is differ from my everyday rules for authors giveaways. For this giveaway you have to be a follower to enter. You can either be a GFC, Facebook or goodreads follwer.
Open to the US and Canada and please leave your email with your comment 

Make sure you visit the other blogs!!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Special Interview with historical romance author Vonda Sinclair + Giveaway

I know your asking. What's an historical author doing on a paranormal romance blog?? Well, if you read her books you'll know I just couldn't resist her hotties from the highlands. LOL. 


Hello Vonda! I want to thank you for doing this interview and welcome you to BbPNR. I hope you don’t mind being seen on a paranormal romance blog since you’re a historical romance author.

Vonda- Hi, Laurie! Thanks so much for allowing me (along with my Highlanders) to crash the awesome paranormal party you have going on here!

Laurie-Oh! That’s right, you write about the hot highlanders. Sorry, your highlanderness! LOL.

Vonda- LOL! No problem. I love reading paranormal romance! It's one of my favorites. Sometimes I want to read something really unusual and different. This can give me a fresh new perspective on history. Besides, Scotland has many legends of supernatural happenings and paranormal creatures.

Laurie- Girl, I know you said that right and that’s another reason I do love to stick in a highlander book every once a while, even though I love reading about my hot vamps and shape-shifters, I have to have me some hot highlanders in there too LOL. So, speaking of highlanders, why did you choose to write highlanders?




Vonda- Who can resist a sexy, muscular, highly-trained warrior in a kilt? There's just something about them that's addictive. Am I right? The Highlands have an aura of mysticism that few other places have. Plus, the Highlands of Scotland is a harsh but beautiful environment and the people who lived there in the past, without modern conveniences, would've had to be tough and resourceful people. This makes for strong men (aka heroes) who don't back down from anything.

Laurie- Speaking of Sexy, muscular and highly-trained warrior in kilt. I remember reading one lately he was sexy and highly trained warrior and he definitely hit my highlander hottie spot. I believe his name was Laird Alasdair MacGrath. I have to beg your pardon for the next few questions because this hottie and his brother hit me so hard I’ve been a little absent minded since LOL. I am thinking Alasdair may belong to you somehow. If so, would you tell us a little about him?


Vonda- Absolutely! (The two brothers thank you for blaming your absentmindedness on them LOL! They are glad to be distractions.) Alasdair is the kind of man most any woman would want to marry. He's hot, sexy and great in bed. He's also very responsible and protective. He's a strong leader and will give the woman he loves anything she wants.

Laurie- I have to admit I don’t remember Alasdair wearing kilt * grumbling and flipping pages on kindle, I must have missed reading it somehow * But that’s no biggie for me because kilts only has one purpose and that’s to have access of one detail quicker LOL.  So, I believe this one would fall to his brother, what’s his name again? And please tell me how many women has he been with anyway? If he even knows *snorting*

Vonda- LOL! Alasdair wore a kilt a few times, when he wasn't dropping it and crawling into Gwyneth's bathtub. ;)  As for his brother… Lachlan… he has no idea how many women he's been with. He's a pleasure seeker and I think he might be addicted to it. Now he only needs to teach Angelique about the sensual pleasures. She's a stubborn student but eventually she sees what he's talking about. haha

Laurie- Oh yeah, that’s right, Sir Lachlan MacGrath. Sorry, I should have remembered that one because he has a cover with a blond hottie on it, I love blonds.  Can you tell me did he finely keep his kilt down for one special lady, yet?




Vonda- Yes, he only lets Angelique lift his kilt now. ;) What surprised him was that it wasn't all that difficult. He never thought he could commit to ONE woman. But Angelique makes him forget other women exist. And thanks about the cover! I'm so glad you like it!

Laurie-Oh my, I sure can’t wait to get to Lachlan book this next week, so I can see how Angelique got him all to herself. I love that name Angelique by the way. I don’t see it much anymore. Now, tell me where are your hot highlanders taking you next?

Vonda- I hope you enjoy My Wild Highlander! In the next story, I'm thinking Lachlan's friend Dirk will take us north, further into the Highlands, perhaps even to the wild and untamed north coast. I've been sort of obsessing about Durness recently. Although I won't say for sure it will take place there, I'm hoping, because it's a very atmospheric and beautiful place. Not for wimps either. When I was there in late spring, the weather was very harsh and temperamental--strong winds, rain, hail, even some snow on the higher mountains. But something about it calls to me… and Dirk. He will unfortunately find himself in a hornet's nest of problems and conflicts.

Laurie- I love baking and cooking and I see on your site you have an awesome sounding Scottish apple scone recipe. Would you please share that with everyone here today? I’m going apple picking this week so I know what I will be making;)

Vonda- Yes! I love Scottish foods and scones are yummy.
Apple Scones
Ingredients:
One medium cooking apple
2 cups self-rising flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ stick butter or margarine (1/4 cup)
1/3 cup fine granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
up to ½ cup milk
Ingredients for glaze:
A little milk
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
dash cinnamon
Instructions
Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees F

Peel and core the apple and then finely chop. Sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon and baking powder. Then rub in the butter followed by the sugar and chopped apple and mix. Add milk until you have a soft but not sticky dough. Roll out on a floured surface to about ¼" thick and 8" round and mark into 8 wedges. (Or use biscuit cutter.) Place on a greased baking sheet, brush the top with milk and sprinkle with the light brown sugar and dash cinnamon. Bake in the pre-heated oven at 400 degrees F for 20-25 minutes. Serve warm with butter.

Laurie- I just have two more questions if you don’t mind. Why self-publishing? I myself love that author’s chose this way because it gives them a better choice on what’s in the book, covers etc. I am very glad you chose this route. The next question is. Are you going to put these books in print one day?

Vonda- Good questions! I went with self-publishing these two historical romance novels because I knew they were ready. The other option was to let them sit on my hard drive forever. A few years ago, an agent signed me because of My Fierce Highlander. She loved the book and submitted it to NY publishers for over three years. Some of those publishers made us wait 2 1/2 years before making their decision. Others said we love this and it’s publishable quality, but we're not going to offer a contract. I'm sure they have their reasons. I was thrilled when Amazon created Kindle Direct Publishing, Barnes and Nobel created Pubit, and Smashwords came into being, because now I don't have to wait for NY editors to give me a chance. I can make it happen myself. The sales so far of both books have surprised me in a good way. Needless to say, I'm thrilled I chose to self-publish. I may put them into print one day. I've just been learning more about that option, and it's becoming more appealing. Thanks so much for the awesome interview! It has been a blast!


Vonda is giving away a eBook copy of My Fierce Highlander to one lucky commenter with an email.


Review Entangled by Edie Ramer, et al.

Title: Entangled
Author: Edie Ramer, Misty Evans, Cynthia Eden, et.al
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: eBook, 335 pgs
Release Date: September 12, 2011
Entangled Book Cover


Ghosts, vampires, demons, and more! Entangled includes ten paranormal short stories from authors Cynthia Eden, Jennifer Estep, Edie Ramer, Lori Brighton, Michelle Diener, Misty Evans, Nancy Haddock, Liz Kreger, Dale Mayer, and Michelle Miles, plus a Seven Deadly Sins novella by Allison Brennan.

Stacia Kane contributed the foreword. All proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

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My Review:

This is a Halloween anthology of short stories in the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres with a single young adult urban fantasy short and an urban fantasy novella. I'll rate each individually.

I'm going to make a confession, I don't usually read Forewords {gasp! I know!}, acknowledgements, dedications, yes. Forewords, no. Kudos to Stacia Kane for a writing a Foreword that pulled me in, hook, line and sinker from the word go. "The other day I got involved in an online conversation with some other writers about condoms. Specifically about condoms and their use in books, as in whether or not the characters we write use them." I couldn't not read after an opening like that. She goes on to talk about the hope of eradicating breast cancer. Condoms to breast cancer? Yep and does a fine job of it. When you purchase this book I hope you'll read Stacia's Foreword.

A Bit of Bite by Cynthia Eden Rating: 5, Sexual: Hot!
A paranormal liaison, vampires, werewolves and a hot romance take over in this paranormal romance. The supernaturals came out of the closet 10 years ago. Sheriff Ava Dushaine had a one night stand with the Julian, Alpha of the local werewolf pack. He's never forgotten her and still wants her. Great line: "Is this the part where I say…'My, Julian, what very big teeth you have…'?" The lust between them simmers all the time.

The Fat Cat by Edie Ramer Rating: 3.5
A witch, a talking cat and a warlock who is really an energy vampire take center stage in this paranormal romance. Tory is replacing her ex-boyfriend with a cat, a female cat because she has designated "her condo [as] a No Penis Zone". Ends up with male talking cat. Great line: "She‘d faked orgasms, she could fake confidence." This has a great surprise ending.

A Night of Forever by Lori Brighton Rating: 5, Sexual: Hot!
In this steamy historical paranormal romance short, vampires, werewolves, an underground fight club and a reluctant romance lure us in. Mary Ellen doesn't want to be interested in Aidan. She wants a cheerful, rich husband. Not a serious, boring and quiet man like Aiden. So why couldn't she keep from watching him? Aiden has been silently mooning over Mary Ellen for the two months he's been visiting. It has been many years since he's been interested in any female, much less a human.

Medium Rare by Nancy Haddock Rating: 4
Ghosts, a psychotherapist to the haunted, a ghost hunting team, a ghostly battle and an unlikely attraction that turns into a romance haunt this story set in one of my favorite places -- St. Augustine, FL.

Sweet Demon by Misty Evans Rating: 4
A vengeance demon with her own investigations biz, a vampire king, the Goddess of Love and a rekindled romance. A great line: "[she had] fear of commitment, and men came and went like a boyfriend version of Netflix"

Sian’s Solution by Dale Mayer Rating: 3
Vampires, a blood farm and a love that is stronger than the obstacles they'll face.

Sinfully Sweet by Michelle Miles Rating: 4, Sexual: Steamy
A magical healer, magically enhanced baked goods, a sexy stranger who is half-Elemental witch, half-incubus and a steamy chemistry between the main characters are featured in this story. This reminds me of two stories I've read this past year both of which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Feel the Magic by Liz Kreger Rating: 3
What an inventive story line! It features a witch and a cat trapped in a woman's body urging the witch to transform her into the cat. She'd heard of transgendered, but trans-specied? This was a new one.

Breaking Out by Michelle Diener Rating: 5
A prison of sorts for 'special' people, a telekinetic, a mind reader, a healer, a breakout, a paranormal (not supernatural) special ops team. Hot chemistry between two of the escapees. Reminds me a little of Christine Feehan's Ghost Walkers series. Welcome to the contemporary paranormal romance genre, Ms. Diener! Great job!

Halloween Frost, A Mythos Academy short story by Jennifer Estep Rating: 3
A Valkyrie, a Gypsy, a Spartan, prowlers (oversized black cougars with lots of teeth and claws), a talking sword and high school warriors take the lead in this YA urban fantasy short. The warriors, champions of the gods and goddesses, battle with a prowler on Halloween.

Ghostly Justice, A Seven Deadly Sins Novella by Allison Brennan Rating: 3.75, Sexual: Steamy
An emotionally bruised cop, demon hunters, incarnate demons, a dying woman's request, human vampires (not the supernatural kind) practicing dark magic, human sacrifices and a somewhat steamy romance clash in this urban fantasy novella. The Moira character is very intense in a very 'everything is black or white, no gray allow' kind of way but this may be due to the manipulations of her trainer. Rafe has been getting more powers since being in a coma and it has him a little worried.

Don't forget -- all proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Authors' Websites:
Edie Ramer, Cynthia Eden, Jennifer Estep
Lori Brighton, Michelle Diener, Misty Evans
Nancy Haddock, Liz Kreger, Dale Mayer
Michelle Miles, Allison Brennan

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