Fathom: A Captivating YA Tale

Fathom
Author: Merrie Destefano
Print Length: 310 pages
Publisher: Merrie Destefano
Released: September 24, 2012
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

SUMMARY: Turning sixteen can be hell, especially if everyone in town thinks your mother killed herself and your sister. All Kira Callahan wants to do is swim, hang out with her best friend, Sean, and ignore the kids who torment her at school. That is, until one day when she gets invited to a party. For three minutes her life is wonderful—she even kisses Sean in the driveway. Then somebody spikes her drink at the party and some girls from out of town lure her into the ocean and hold her underwater. Kira soon discovers that the group of wild teenagers who have come to visit Crescent Moon Bay are not as innocent as they seem. In fact, nothing is as it seems—not the mysterious deaths of her sister and mother, not her heritage, not even her best friend. And everything seems to hinge on the ancient Celtic legends that her mother used to tell her as a child.

It's no secret that I love Merrie Destefano's books and stories.  Her writing has a beautiful flow to it, bringing the reader inside the story to experience it with the characters.  Fathom is the first Young Adult story I've read by Merrie, and my summer was so chaotic I had fell behind in book news, and didn't know much at all about her new novel.  I dived into the unknown and was captivated by the end of the first chapter, wanting to know what was going to happen to Kira.  Was her family evil?  Hmmm...maybe her best friend wasn't what he seemed? Why did her mother kill herself and her sister, but spare Kira?  I needed to know! 

Ms. Destefano captured the voice of a teenage girl so well, it made me feel 16 again.  I identified with Kira and her hormonal confusion battling with the need to do what is right.  The words flowed from page to page, keeping me captivated from start to finish.  I loved the characters, and truly appreciated that the adults were as interesting, flaws and all, as the teens.   They were part of the story, not relegated to the background, as some YA stories tend to do.  

Lastly,  I must mention the twists, the turns and the surprises along the way.  This is not a predictable story. It's fresh, passionate and compelling and will surprise the reader.  Fans of Melissa Marr, Karen Mahoney, and Colleen Houck will love Fathom.

To read the first chapter and find out more about Fathom visit Merrie's website at:
http://www.merriedestefano.com/fathom.html

~Brenda

An ARC Review: A Trace of Moonlight

A Trace of Moonlight
Abby Sinclair #3
Author: Allison Pang
Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Pocket Books
Release Date: 10/30/2012
Preorder for Kindle

SUMMARY: Abby’s pact with a demon—whether or not she remembers making it—is binding, so she’d better count herself lucky that (in the words of a daemon who knows better) there’s nearly always a loophole. But her friends’ reckless attempts to free her, well intentioned though they may be, set off a disastrous chain of events. In no time at all, Abby turns her incubus lover mortal and gets herself killed, cursed, and married to an elven prince whose mother wants her dead. She might have even been able to recover from all that had she not lost the Key to the CrossRoads to her mortal enemy, who promptly uses his restored power to wreak havoc on the OtherWorld and put its very existence in jeopardy. Only one person can make things right again, but to find her, Abby must place her trust in allies of mixed loyalties, and conquer her nightmares once and for all.

I've reviewed the other two books in this amazing series, and each one sucked me in more than the last. I have to say that Allison Pang is one of the first authors I've read that really had me torn between two heroes. Talivar is a loyal, sexy, underdog with a quiet strength. Brystion is sexy, and he knows it. He's striking, aggressive, passionate and often selfish...it's his nature. A Trace of Moonlight takes my impressions of these two men and twists them up like a Cat's Cradle gone wrong. The story itself is full of twists and turns, life changing battles, sacrifices and epic events.

Abby is an amazing heroine. She's not a physical fighter, but she is smart, compassionate and doesn't sit on the sidelines waiting to be rescued. She uses what she has available to her in every situation. A Trace of Moonlight is fast paced, emotionally packed and amazing. Fans won't be disappointed. 

The series should be read in order.  Fans of Melissa Marr, Patricia Briggs or Jenn Bennett will love the Abby Sinclair series. The books include:

1. A Brush of Darkness
2. A Sliver of Shadow
3. A Trace of Moonlight

For more information on Allison Pang and the Abby Sinclair series visit here:
http://www.heartofthedreaming.com/

(Be sure to click on "Extras" and look at the trading cards. They are beautiful!)
~Brenda

The Taken: Supernatural Noir Mystery

The Taken
Celestial Blues, Book One
Author: Vicki Pettersson
Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Published: June 12, 2012
Available in Paperback and Kindle

Griffin Shaw used to be a PI, but that was back when gumshoes hoofed the streets . . . and he was still alive. Fifty years later, he's an angel, but that doesn't make him a saint. One small mistake has altered fate, and now he's been dumped back onto the mortal mudflat to collect another soul—Katherine "Kit" Craig, a journalist whose latest investigation is about to get her clipped.

Bucking heavenly orders, Grif refuses to let the sable-haired siren come to harm. Besides, protecting her offers a chance to solve the mystery of his own unsolved murder—and dole out some overdue payback for the death of his beloved wife, Evie.
Joining forces, Kit and Grif's search for answers leads beyond the blinding lights of the Strip into the dark heart of an evil conspiracy. But a ruthless killer determined to destroy them isn't Grif's biggest threat. His growing attraction to Kit could cost them both their lives, along with the answer to the haunting question of his long afterlife . . .

I've been a fan of Vicki Pettersson for years now because of her epic series, The Signs of the Zodiac. When the series ended I was completely satisfied with how she wrapped it all up, but I was sad because I didn't know when we would see something new from her. She gave hints as early as she could, and slowly revealed the deets on her next series. I was very interested, but after the cover was released I was giddy with anticipation. Rockabilly? Noir? Hard-boiled P.I.? Angels? 
 
A summer of teen drama and freelance writing kept me from reading The Taken until this week. I found myself nervous as I started it. What if I didn't like it? Perish the thought. I plowed in with abandon and as soon as I saw dialog like this I knew I would love it:

"Look, I'm sorry to the one to tell you, kid. But you've been rooked."

Griffin Shaw, one of the main characters, is straight out of 1950's Las Vegas. He doesn't have to shop at vintage clothing stores because he IS vintage. He still wears the Fedora he had on when he died. He's a Mickey Spillane character come to life, thrown into modern Las Vegas where nothing is at it was, which makes him a tad cranky.  He's an angel brought back to the "mudflat" to correct a mistake.

Kit Craig is a female reporter with style, finesse, and intelligence who sees the best in everyone, and refuses to let life get her down. She's the polar opposite of Griffin Shaw, and she's determined to help him while helping herself, even if he is cranky and crazy. It doesn't hurt that he looks like he stepped out the 1950's with a presence and style that takes her breath away. The Taken is truly a breath of fresh air for me, because of the writing, which blew me away, and the unique world the author has created with it's quirky characters. I can't recall ever reading this amazing mix of mystery, romance, and urban fantasy with a noir twist. It's fast paced with action in all the right places, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.

Vicki Pettersson has the ability to bring the people and streets of Las Vegas alive, mixing the past and present together with the unseen paranormal aspects of the fictional world she has created. The Taken is dark and gritty, yet hope shines through Kit and her relationship with Griffin, taking the reader's breath away over and over.

Ms. Pettersson just released the cover for the second book in the series, The Lost, which will be released in March 2013.

To find out more about The Celestial Blues series visit here:
http://www.vickipettersson.com/

~Brenda

Thirteen to End It All

Thirteen
Women of the Otherworld
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Hardcover: 464 pages
Publisher: Dutton Adult
First Edition (July 24, 2012)
Available for the Kindle
 
Summary: A war is brewing—the first battle has been waged and Savannah Levine is left standing, albeit battered and bruised. She has rescued her half brother from supernatural medical testing, but he’s fighting to stay alive. The Supernatural Liberation Movement took him hostage, and they have a plan to expose the supernatural world to the unknowing. Savannah has called upon her inner energy to summon spells with frightening strength, a strength she never knew she had, as she fights to keep her world from shattering. But it’s more than a matter of supernaturals against one another—both heaven and hell have entered the war; hellhounds, genetically modified werewolves, and all forces of good and evil have joined the fray. Uniting Savannah with Adam, Paige, Lucas, Jaime, Hope, and other lost-but-not forgotten characters in one epic battle, for a grand series finale.
 
Thirteen by Kelley Armstrong is the final book in her Otherworld Series.  Let's be honest, there is no perfect ending to a loved series of books, because we ALWAYS want more.  We tell ourselves it's okay because we can read the books again from start to finish, but there is always that nagging thought that we want to know MORE.  Sometimes we get it, sometimes we don't, but it never takes away from the love of the author and their writing.  Thirteen is a great last book, bringing together past characters to battle the bad guy with the author's wonderful wit and heartfelt emotion. 

I don't want to give spoilers, but after waiting so long for Adam and Savannah to come to their senses, I will say the interaction between them was extremely satisfying.  Yes.  Extremely.  That said, the story is so much more than the relationship between the two of them.  There are heartwrenching moments throughout the story as sacrifices are made, and the fighting escalates.  Winning this battle isn't easy, and doesn't come without a price.  It wouldn't have been as good of a story if the end came easily.

Fans will not be disappointed in this final book, but like me, I'm sure they'll wish for a short story or novella in the future.   That's okay though, because that's what fans do, even as they smile and close the pages of the last book. If you haven't read Kelley Armstrong's series I highly recommend starting with Bitten, the first in the series, to get a feel for the world she's created.
 
Women of the Otherworld
1. Bitten (2001)
2. Stolen (2002)
3. Dime Store Magic (2003)
4. Industrial Magic (2004)
5. Haunted (2005)
6. Broken (2006)
7. No Humans Involved (2007)
8. Personal Demon (2008)
9. Living with the Dead (2008)
10. Frost Bitten (2009)
11. Waking the Witch (2010)
12. Spellbound (2011)
13. Thirteen (2012)
 
Otherworld Tales
Witch Magic(2004)
Angelic (2009)
Men of the Otherworld (2009)
Counterfeit Magic (2010)
Tales of the Otherworld (2010)
Becoming (2011)
Hidden (2011)
Chaotic (2012)
The Hunter and the Hunted(2012)

You can find out more about Kelley's Otherworld series, plus her other books, on her website: http://www.kelleyarmstrong.com

~Brenda

Heroines Who Kick Butt

Heroines that kick butt, are intelligent, and show a compassionate side to their personalities are my favorite characters in the urban fantasy genre. Sometimes the heroine starts out as a bit of a loner, but then she comes to realize how important it is to ask for help when it's needed. This month I read two books with heroines that had me cheering for them and feeling their pain as they discovered who they could trust and what their place is in their world. 

 

The first kick butt gal is Arcadia Bell from the mind of Jenn Bennett in her book Summoning the Night. I love Arcadia because she's tough, independent, compassionate and she rolls with the punches. She's in a relationship with sexy Lon Butler, who comes with an energetic, smart and wiley son named Jupe. I loved the interaction between Cady and Jupe. His mother is vain and superficial, incapable of giving him any emotional support. He latches on to Cady, and becomes important to her too. They make a fun team when Lon isn't around, backing each other up in any situation. When Lon is around they become a family, which is a fragile circumstance for Cady, who was almost sacrificed by her own parents.

The second book in the series, Summoning the Night is a fast paced urban fantasy with romantic elements. The characters are rich, complex and often surprising. I highly recommend this series to fans of Ilona Andrews, Rob Thurman and Allison Pang.

I'm excited that there will be two new Arcadia Bell stories in the next year. Leashing the Tempest is a novella that takes place after the second book. It's a special Christmas story with Cady, Lon, Jupe and Kar Yee. In June of 2013 the third book, Binding the Shadows, will be released. I'm looking forward to not only Cady's adventures, but how the relationship between her, Lon and Jupe progresses. The books, including the future releases are as follows:

1. Kindling the Moon (2011)
2. Summoning the Night (2012)
2.5 Leashing the Tempest (December 2013)
3. Binding the Shadows (June 2013)

To find out more about Jenn and her books visit her at http://www.jennbennett.net .

 

The second urban fantasy with a kick butt heroine is written by Kelly Gay. Shadows Before the Sun is the fourth book in the Charlie Madigan series and I must say it's the best one yet. Charlie has been through some tough times in this series, but she keeps going because of her daughter, and the other people she loves.  In the first three books she's fought her feelings for her partner Hank for many reasons.  We were left hanging at the end of the third book due to his arrest by officials from his home world.  Will they act on their feelings? Will Charlie be able to bring Hank home? Readers will not be disappointed in the events of Shadows Before the Sun. We learn more about Charlie's powers and the changes she's going through and how loyal she is to those around her. On top of all that, she kicks butt emotionally and physically, throughout the entire book.  The Charlie Madigan series is urban fantasy at it's best, and I certainly can't wait for the next book in the series to see what happens in her life and in the world Kelly Gay has created.  The series is best read in order, as follows:

1. The Better Part of Darkness (2009)
2. The Darkest Edge of Dawn (2010)
3. The Hour of Dust and Ashes (2011)
4. Shadows Before the Sun (2012)
To find out more about each book visit Kelly at http://kellygay.com/news.

The Black Hole of Life?

I've been reading and writing since April, even though my posts came to a halt.  I've been keeping up my reviews at goodreads, and I'm writing from 6-8 home and garden articles per month to help pay some of the bills.  So, why did I fade into a black hole on my blog?

One 50th Anniversary party for Chuck's parents where we cooked for almost 200 peeps AND we managed to clean up pretty dang good...

One graduation for my middle son Michael...

Three birthdays on which certain people turned 18, 19 and 52, and one could have been me, the other two might have been my sons, including the 19 year old below wearing a Batman pin:)

Two break ups, a "let's get together" again, and then another break up. Names have been left out to protect the innocent, and well, not so innocent. Teenage hearts were tossed around and beaten up a bit:(

One graduation open house with hot wings, pulled pork, a taco bar, cake and other yummy food.  Oh yeah, and a table full of stuff I dug out from the graduate's childhood...

Then there was drama, more drama,  a broken truck, a broken van, kid's broken car and finally...

One mini-vacation!

I have some cool reviews coming up on the blog this month, and on goodreads.  Thanks to those who have hung in there with me:)

~Brenda

Interview: YA Paranormal Author J. Meyers

Intangible
Author: J. Meyers
File Size: 722 KB
Print Length: 349 pages
Publisher: J. Meyers
Released: January 29, 2012
Available on Amazon

SUMMARY: Twins Sera and Luke Raine have a well-kept secret—she heals with a touch of her hand, he sees the future. All their lives they’ve helped those in need on the sly. They’ve always thought of their abilities as being a gift.

Then Luke has a vision that Sera is killed. That gift they’ve always cherished begins to feel an awful lot like a curse. Because the thing about Luke’s ability? He’s always right. And he can’t do anything about it.

INTERVIEW WITH J. MEYERS
Brenda: Intangible is an amazing YA paranormal read. I've heard you've had a wonderful response to it, so I'm hoping we can look forward to a second book in the future. Can you tell us when and if we'll be getting another story?

J: Oh, wow! Thank you so much for the compliment. :-) The response has been incredible and overwhelming--I feel really blessed, in all honesty. And, yes, there is a book two coming. I'm working on it right now and hoping it'll be out by the end of the year (fingers crossed!). And I have to say that I'm really, really excited about the story in book two.

Brenda: I loved the way you handled Sera's first relationship with a guy. This is such an exciting, yet stressful time for teenagers. Did you have to think a lot about how you would handle it in the story?

J: I wanted this to be a clean read--something that I'd be totally comfortable with my kids reading (and I'm really picky about that)--so I already knew there wasn't going to be any sex in it. And for Sera, for a first relationship, it doesn't make sense (to me) for it to go that way anyway. At least not that quickly. So I didn't have to really figure much out for this book. With every character I wrote, I put myself in their shoes, tried to look through their eyes, feel their reactions based on their life experiences. And with Sera there were many things I could relate to--one of which was the first relationship as a teen girl and being consumed, giddy, surprised, and also not ready for some aspects.

Will there be more advanced relationships in subsequent books? Probably. But only when it makes sense for the characters. At the same time, I'm not writing romance, so if there is more romantic action it's still not going to be a focus of the story, just a plot point. It's important to me to write books that anyone can enjoy and that any parent isn't going to cringe that their daughter or son is reading. I want to stay true to what characters would really do, but also keep it appropriate for my youngest readers. My 9 year old wanted to read the book, and while he isn't quite in my target audience age range yet, I wasn't worried at all about the content being inappropriate for him. It was really nice to be able to say yes to him reading my book. :-)

Brenda: Time for a mom moment-- I loved that you explored Sera's temptation to use her gift in a negative way. I felt like there were a few "lessons" to be learned from the story, but yet you were subtle about it, so as to avoid any "eye rolling" from teens. Were you thinking about any of this as you were writing?

J: No, actually, I wasn't. I was just exploring Sera in all her imperfections. She's a good person, but she's not *all* good. She makes bad decisions sometimes, she does things she shouldn't do out of anger/frustration . . . just like we all do.

Brenda: When I read the description of Marc with his red hair I immediately thought of Shaun White and it stuck in my head. Did you have inspiration for your characters?

J: Not really. (But I can totally see Shaun White as Marc now that you say that!) There's a little bit of me in every character, and I'm sure little pieces of people I know, but no one character was based on any one specific person. I don't even have any celebrities pictured in my head as any of my characters. (You know, except for Shaun White now.) They are each unique creations.

Brenda: Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions. I'm really looking forward to whatever story you come out with next.

J: It's been a real pleasure, Brenda! I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the story, and can't wait to share book two with you! Thank you! :-)

MY THOUGHTS ON INTANGIBLE
Intangible is a compelling, fast paced, read with rich characters that jump off the page into the reader's mind and heart. I found myself wishing I'd had friends like Fey, Luke and Sera when I was in high school. Fey is protective, witty, mysterious and beautiful, yet she doesn't let it go to her head. Luke is good looking, loyal, smart, and caring. Sera is kind, smart, couragous and compassionate. I enjoyed the unfolding of their secrets and personalities as the story progressed. The three of them are the heart of Intangible, but that doesn't mean the other characters we meet aren't crucial to the story as well.

Intangible is set in a world where vampires, elves and magic exsist, but are unknown to most humans. Luke and Sera are 17 year old twins who have special talents that they've kept secret their entire lives until events unfold that expose what they can do. They experience heartbreak, loss and betrayal while trying to figure our how they figure into the supernatural world they've discovered. I loved the author's take on the paranormal. The story was at times heart wrenching, but never without hope.

To learn more about J. Meyers and her books visit here:

http://www.jmeyersbooks.com/

You can also read Intuition, a 22 page short story that takes place before the events in Intangible for free. The normal price is .99, so be sure to take note if it's still free when you go to the page. Available from Amazon

Molly Harper's Paranormal World

Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors
Jane Jameson, Book 4
Author: Molly Harper
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Pocket Books
Released: February 28, 2012
Available from Amazon in Paperback and e-book

SUMMARY: Just as Jane Jameson’s unlife seems to be stabilizing, fate sinks its fangs firmly into her butt. Despite her near-phobia of wedding planning, her no-frills nighttime nuptials to her sexy boyfriend, Gabriel, are coming along smoothly. That is, until she turns a fatally wounded teenage acquaintance, and the Council pronounces her responsible for the newborn vamp until he can control his thirst.

Tensions inside the house are growing…and outside, a sinister force is aiming a stake straight for the center of Gabriel’s heart. Most brides just have to worry about choosing the right dress, but Jane fears that, at this rate, she’ll never make it down the aisle for the wedding all nice girls dream of…

In Molly Harper's world there really is a handbook for the undead. Jane Jameson appreciates this because she is now, through no fault of her own, part of undead society and she lives for books and research as a librarian. If anyone needs a handbook it's Jane. We meet her in Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs, and continue to get to know her and her friends, through 3 more books. In the newest story, Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors, we join her in preparing for her wedding, which in true Jane fashion is not simple, nor free of danger.

Ms. Harper has a wonderful, witty, and charming style of writing. Her characters, from adorable babies to ghostly senior citizens are over the top, yet the reader can identify with them because not one of us can claim we don't have crazy in our group of friends and family. What I truly love about these books is that with all the antics, witty banter and the adventure the reader falls in love with Jane's passion and loyalty to those she loves. There are the sexy, steamy moments with Gabriel, Jane's sire, and the touching moments with Zeb, her bestfriend since childhood. I smiled as she made new friends, and wished I could go out on the town with them. We grieve with Jane, celebrate with her, giggle, sniffle, gasp, get angry and cheer her on as she "fixes" people and situations in her life.

I'm sad that Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors is the last Jane Jameson story, but happy to know that her and her friends will be at least a small part of the next two stories released by Molly Harper. It's also comforting to know that Jane and her friends are no farther away then a reread of all four books in her series. If you haven't read any of Jane Jameson series, now is a perfect time to start because you don't have to wait for the books. You can read them one right after the other in all their shiny goodness.

Jane Jameson Series
1. Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs
2. Nice Girls Don't Date Dead Men
3. Nice Girls Don't Live Forever
4. Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors

Molly Harper's website has more information on the books and her other stories here: http://www.mollyharper.com/

Allison Pang's A Sliver of Shadow

A Sliver of Shadow
Abby Sinclair 2
By Allison Pang
Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Pocket Books
Released: 2/28/2012
Available from Amazon in e-book and paperback

SUMMARY: Just when her new life as a TouchStone – a mortal bound to help OtherFolk cross between Faery and human worlds – seems to be settling down, Abby Sinclair is left in charge when the Protectorate, Moira, leaves for the Faery Court. And when the Protectorate’s away…let’s just say things spiral out of control when a spell on Abby backfires and the Faery Queen declares the Doors between their worlds officially closed.

The results are disastrous for both sides: OtherFolk trapped in the mortal world are beginning to fade, while Faerie is on the brink of war with the daemons of Hell. Along with her brooding eleven prince Talivar and sexy incubus Brystion, Abby ventures to the CrossRoads in an attempt to override the Queen’s magic. But nothing in this beautiful, dangerous realm will compare to the discoveries she’s making about her past, her destiny, and what she will sacrifice for those she loves.

Allison Pang has created a world that is magical and beautiful, yet edgy and dark at the same time. The heroine, Abby, is a wonderful character who is full of passion, loyalty, and a need to do the right thing even when it means sadness or sacrifice.

In the second book of the series, we are reunited with characters, including a sarcastic, perverted minature unicorn, a broody incubus, a beautiful fairy baby, a crippled prince and the friends that have Abby's back. The author reveals more about all of the characters, taking us deeper into the intrique of this magical world.

We also meet new characters, and travel in the land of the fae. A Sliver of Shadow is full of action, romance, friendship, danger, tested loyalties, and much more. I had trouble putting the book down once I started, wanting to know what was going to happen next. I have to mention that I was especially fond of Talivar, an elf who, according to our heroine Abby, looks like Legalos with a leather eye patch and facial "scruff". Let's take a minute to envision this:

Sigh. Next to Abby, he's my favorite character in A Sliver of Shadow, and we learn much about him in this story. Yes, I'd wear a Team Talivar t-shirt in a heartbeat.

Fans of Jaye Wells, Melissa Marr and Kim Harrison will love Allison Pang. I can't wait to read the third story in the series, A Trace of Moonlight, which is scheduled for October 2012.

You can read an excerpt of the first and second book here: http://www.heartofthedreaming.com/a-sliver-of-shadow/

~Brenda

Bloodhounds from Moira Rogers

Hunter's Prey
Bloodhounds, Book 2
Author: Moira Rogers
Format: Kindle Edition
Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Release Date: March 6, 2012

SUMMARY: Ophelia retired from life as a prostitute, but her new position is even more complicated. Managing the bloodhound manor in Iron Creek is difficult and time-consuming, a job she enjoys less with each passing day. Then there's her inconvenient attraction to Hunter. The newly turned hound seems eager to enjoy her company, but wary of anything more intimate.

Having survived the violence of his first full moon out of a cage, Hunter isn't looking forward to his first new moon. Ophelia offers to be the woman who sates his needs during the three long days of sexual fury, but he can't abide the thought of hurting her in a state of mindless lust. Especially since she longs to settle into a respectable life, and his needs are anything but respectable.

Warning: Contains a mostly feral, vampire-hunting hero and a tough survivor of a heroine whose retired-hooker heart is more steel than gold. Also included: dangerous frontier intrigue, fancy brothels, mad-scientist weapons and a good dose of wicked loving in an alternate Wild West.

I've loved Moira Rogers' wolf stories for a long time now because of the witty banter, the sexy alphas, the strong heroines and, of course, the amazing writing. When I heard they were working on a series that was set in an alternate Old West with shifters I was thrilled, but when I found out they were giving it a steampunk twist I was downright giddy. Today the second book in the series, Hunter's Prey, was released. If you missed the first book, Wilder's Mate, I'd recommend picking it up at the same time. You could read them out of order without too much of a problem, but reading them together simply adds to the awesomeness of the stories.

Hunter's Prey is a blending of romance, action, adventure and the supernatural. The setting is an alternative Old West where the citizens struggle to survive in a world where cattle rustlers and bandits are the least of their problems compared to Vampire drug lords, good guys who are scarier than the bad guys, steam powered weapons and flying ships. Hunter, our hero, refuses to see himself as a good guy since he was forced into his role as a Bloodhound, turning savage at the full moon. He feels love, happiness and family is no longer a possibility in his life. Ophelia has given up her life as a prostitute to help manage the household of two genius inventors and three bloodhounds. She's frustrated and doesn't know how long she can continue her new role unless something changes to lighten her responsibilities so she can find time for herself.

The interaction between Hunter and Ophelia is much different than the relationship between Wilder and Satira, which is lighter, perhaps a bit more wild. Hunter is quiet, brooding and dark, but yet polite, especially to the women. Ophelia is refined with a quiet, steady strength. She's practical and blunt when it comes to the needs of those around her. They both seem to keep their needs and passions locked inside where they simmer, aching to get out. It's a journey of discovery and self acceptance.

I loved the interaction between all of the characters in Hunter's Prey. The attention to detail in The Bloodhound series is amazing. I find myself rereading the stories because they are so unique and compelling. While the action and romance is the primary focus, the Western setting and the steampunk theme gives the stories a fascinating twist.

The BLOODHOUND SERIES

Book One: Wilder's Mate
- 3/8/2011

Book Two: Hunter's Prey
- 3/6/2012

Book Three: Archer's Lady

-Coming 7/3/2012

Merrick's Destiny: takes place between Wilder's Mate and Hunter's Prey. It was released in February 2012 as an exclusive from All Romance e-Books.

MY THOUGHTS:
Merrick's Destiny can easily be read as a stand alone, or even as an introduction to the series. I loved it from start to finish. Merrick is gruff, and I think the cover is a great representation of him. I know some readers were put off by it, but I wasn't. Bloodhounds are rough, often uncivilized, barely controlled and yes, sexy, but they can't all be pretty boys. Merrick and Paralee are one of my favorite couples. He's rough, protective and old school. She's independent, tough, smart and certainly not thinking of mating with anyone, let alone a Bloodhound. The story is Western Steampunk, complete with gadgets, flying machines, magic, and action. It's a fast paced story with heart. Fans of Moira Rogers will love it, and if you haven't read the series or anything by the author, grab this as an introduction.

For excerpts and more visit: http://www.moirarogers.com/bloodhounds

Home, Home on the Range...

So, is anyone else watching the AMC show Hell on Wheels? You should be. I'll admit it started out a might slow but damn, has it made up for it. First we have Anson Mount playing the role of Cullen Bohannan, a man trying to seek revenge on the men who raped and killed his wife, and son:


Dominique McElligot plays Lily Bell, a woman traveling with her husband who worked for the railroad. Lily may not be used to the rough life of the railroad camp, but she's determined to make a life for herself after her husband's death.

Lily and Cullen are brought together when he finds her wounded and in need of help. He brings her back to the railroad camp and is surprised when she decides to stay rather than go back home. Their chemistry is amazing, and I patiently waited to see what would happen between the two of them. The last of episode of the first season aired on Sunday and I have rarely seen such intense chemistry between two people on screen. I can't wait to see what happens in season two.

If you haven't seen Hell on Wheels, try to catch the repeats on AMC before season two begins. It's a gritty and realistic historical drama. I hope we see more of this type of television show.

~Brenda

My Five Star Books for 2011

Today is the release day for Hammer Down, one of my favorite reads from 2011. I know, it's January 3, 2012 today, but I was lucky enough to read an ARC, and it's a hands down FIVE STAR read. Pick it up from the publisher, Samhain HERE or it's available on Amazon for the Kindle as well.

MORE FIVE STAR 2011 READS
I wanted to do a cool first post for 2012, but as usual I'm so busy my brain has stalled. I was on Goodreads today and joined the reading challenge for 2012. I'm going for 200 books this year, folks. To be fair, that includes novellas and short stories too, so technically it's not full length books. I don't skim books-- couldn't make myself do that if I tried-- I read them from start to finish with no peeking. Last year I really didn't start seriously putting all my reads on Goodreads until later in the winter from what I remember, so I might have missed a few books. Below are my five star reads for 2011. It doesn't mean I didn't love the other books, but these were the ones I automatically clicked that fifth star with NO hesitation.

The list is in order of what I read first in 2011- it also includes books I read for a second time-- which I do sometimes-- mostly if it's a series that I want to visit again before the next book comes out. I tried to group the series together, but just because you don't see all the books from the series listed doesn't mean I didn't like them as much. I try to read in order, but I sometimes win a book or just grab the wrong one. I also may have read the other book or books in 2010. I buy a lot of my books, win a few, and a few more are given me for review, but my budget is fairly small so I buy when I can.

I'm starting off with the list with this story because it's the newest addition to one of my favorite series, and I've read the first 4 books three times each, and I'm sure I'll read the others at least that many times. The last book I finished in 2011 was the novella, Magic Gifts (Kate Daniels, #5.4) which the authors provided free to readers. IF it's still free you can download it here: http://www.ilona-andrews.com/. If you missed it, you'll be able to get it with Andrea's book, Gunmetal Magic, which will be coming out this summer.

The Kate Daniels Series
Read them again #1-5.4

All 5 Stars
Andrews, Ilona

Enchanted No More
Owens, Robin

Ecstasy Unveiled
Sin Undone
(Demonica 4 & 5)
Ione, Larissa

Angels' Blood

(Guild Hunter, #1)
Singh, Nalini

Alien Tango
Alien in the Family
(Katherine "Kitty" Katt, 2 & 3)
Koch, Gini

One Grave at a Time
This Side of the Grave
(Night Huntress, 4 & 5)
Frost, Jeaniene

Dragon Actually
About A Dragon
The Dragon Who Loved Me
Aiken, G.A.

The Third Kiss: Dorian's Dream
Killough-Walden, Heather

The Mane Attraction

(Pride, #3)
Laurenston, Shelly

The Red Heart of Jade

(Dirk & Steele, #3)
Liu, Marjorie M.

The Sexorcist
(Karmic Consultants, #3)
Vivi Andrews

Red-Headed Stepchild
(Sabina Kane, #1)
Wells, Jaye

Big Bad Beast
(Pride, #6)
Laurenston, Shelly

Legacy Found

(Legacy, #3)
Walters, N.J.

Red Rock Pass Series
Read from beginning again...

All 5 Stars
Rogers, Moira

Southern Arcana Series

(Books 1-4 plus shorts)

Read from beginning again
All 5 Stars

Moira Rogers

The Neon Graveyard

(Signs of the Zodiac, #6)
Pettersson, Vicki

Twice Bitten

(Chicagoland Vampires, #3)
Neill, Chloe

The Edge Series
(Books 1-3)
Andrews, Ilona

Dreamfever
Shadowfever
(Fever 4 & 5)
Moning, Karen Marie

Wild and Steamy Anthology
Meljean Brook, Jill Myles and Carolyn Crane
Free on Amazon for Kindle

Slave to Sensation
Visions of Heat
(Psy-Changeling 1 & 2)
Singh, Nalini

Druid's Glen Series 1-3
Grant, Donna

Awaken the Highland Warrior

(Connor Clan, #1)
Clenney, Anita

The Irish Warrior
Kennedy, Kris

Black Gold

(Takhini Wolves, #1)
Arend, Vivian

Entangled Anthology
Misc. Authors for Charity

River Marked

(Mercy Thompson, #6)
Briggs, Patricia

Forever Mine
Grant, Donna

The Legend of Michael

(Zodius, #1)
Jones, Lisa Renee

In the Forests of the Night

(Goblin Wars, #2)
Hamilton, Kersten

How to Marry a Millionaire Vampire
Be Still My Vampire Heart

(Love at Stake 1 & 3)
Sparks, Kerrelyn

Silent Blade

(Kinsmen #1)
Andrews, Ilona

Desire Untamed

(Feral Warriors, #1)
Palmer, Pamela

The Darkest Surrender

(Lords of the Underworld, #8)
Showalter, Gena

Chaos Tryst
Dubbin, Shirin

Ready to Run

Yours, Mine and Howls

(Werewolves in Love)
Holley, Kinsey W.

Demon Bait
Hammer Down
(Children of the Undying 1 & 2)
Rogers, Moira

Rocky Mountain Haven

(Six Pack Ranch, Book 2)
Arend, Vivian

Shadow Magic
Echoes of Magic
(Sisters of Magic, 1 & 2)
Grant, Donna

The Iron Duke

(Iron Seas, #1)
Brook, Meljean

Twas The Night
Hill, Sandra

Once Upon a Winter's Eve
(Spindle Cove, #1.5)
Dare, Tessa

The Hunter

(The Legend Chronicles, #1)
Meyers, Theresa

Reawakening Eden
Andrews, Vivi

The Darkest Hour

(KGI, #1)
Banks, Maya

Night Reigns

(Immortal Guardians, #2)
Duvall, Dianne

True Colors

(Elder Races #3.5)
Harrison, Thea *

Dirty Little Secrets

(A Marisela Morales Adventure #1)
Leto, Julie

A Dixie Christmas
Hill, Sandra

My Goodreads page with all my books is here:

http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2844600-brenda

Happy New Year!

Brenda