I only have a couple of reminders for this week!
1.) Don't forget to enter the giveaway for two copies of The Werewolf Upstairs. I gave this one a 5 out 5 apple review. It was excellent!
2.) Don't forget to post your February reviews for the 2011 Cozy Mystery Challenge, so I can give you credit for them! (I've read two this month and still haven't gotten my reviews up! LOL...)
The giveaway for a copy of Military Brats: After Burn by Sherry Ficklin ended on February 17th.
The winner was chosen via, random.org. This book will be sent from the author. The winner will be notified today!
Thank-You for participating in the giveaway and I hope that you will check out my sidebar for a new giveaways!
The winner is:
THE GIVEAWAY DIVA
The giveaway for one copy of Committed by Elizabeth Gilbert ended on February 15th. The winner was chosen via, random.org. The winner will be notified today and have 48 hours to send me their mailing address or a new winner will be chosen. This book will be sent out directly from the publisher.
Thank-You for participating and letting us know what you believe is important in marriages today.
The winner is:
TORE
Original Sin (The Seven Deadly Sins - Book 1) by Allison Brennan
Publication Date: January 2010
Publisher: Random House
Genre: Paranormal Thriller
ISBN-13: 9780345511676
ISBN: 0345511670
(Received for review from the author)
Purchase: Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, IndieBound
Allison Brennan on the WEB: Website, Blog, Facebook, Twitter
Excerpt from Original Sin
Book Trailer:
Synopsis (Book Blurb):
Haunted by chilling memories of demonic possession and murder, Moira O'Donnell has spent seven years hunting down her mother, Fiona, whose command of black magic has granted her unprecedented control of the underworld. Now Moira's global search has led her to a small California town that's about to become hell on earth.
Tormented by his own terrifying past and driven by powers he can't explain, ex-seminarian Rafe Cooper joins Moira's dangerous quest. But Fiona is one devilish step ahead. Hungry for greater power, eternal youth, and stunning beauty, the sorceress is unleashing upon the mortal world the living incarnations of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Together with a demonologist, a tough female sheriff, and a true-crime writer chasing the ultimate story, Moira and Rafe are humanity's last best chance to snatch salvation from the howling jaws of damnation.
Thoughts:
Bestselling author Allison Brennan is most known for her crime writing. Original Sin, the first book in the Seven Deadly Sins series was a departure for Brennan, and her first foray into the paranormal. It has been billed as a paranormal romance, but tends to lead more to an Urban Fantasy type of book, with a hint of romance.
Moira O'Donell is having horrifying nightmares filled with murder. She has been searching for her estranged mother, Fiona for seven years, but it isn't a friendly reunion she is looking for. She plans to murder her, if she can figure out how to kill one of the most powerful witches in the underworld. Fiona's plans to unleash the the living incarnations of the Seven Deadly sins: Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Wrath, Envy, Pride, and Laziness, upon the unsuspecting mortal world will only give her more power. It's up to Moira and an unlikely gang of followers to stop Fiona before it's too late. With Rafe, a former seminarian, a demonologist, a sheriff and a writer, Moira sets out of a quest that could bring either salvation or damnation depending on the outcome.
I was really interested in this book because I thought the plot had a great premise. The Seven Deadly Sins in human form! I was expecting to find out more about them and what they could do the human world. I was a little disappointed that the book itself didn't go that route, but Brennan had something else in mind, that was equally interesting. She pits mother against daughter, good against evil in this one and it really worked for her. Fiona is the incarnation of evil and Moira is the only one who can stop her. The book focuses on Moira's attempts to kill her mother and stop her from unleashing the sins.
I found myself drawn to Fiona's character. I thought she was interesting and I wanted to know more about her and why she needed all this power. What was so important about eternal youth and beauty to her. Why would she want to kill her own daughter? I certainly wanted good to win out of course, but dark characters add a very strong element to a novel that captivates some readers, and I suppose I am one of them. I like to know the motivations of each character and Fiona's was easy to see.
Moira on the other hand was a little more complicated. She plans to kill her mother and save the human race. That's the overall goal of the book, but I generally find in a well written book that there are a lot of underlining motivations that give real character to the story. With Moira I found it a little hard to see what was underneath her lofty goal of saving the world. I had a hard time trying to figure out what was in it for her. Let's face it we all have our motivations for the things we do and the sins we commit. I just couldn't pin point it with this character and I was left wanting more.
This book was billed as a paranormal romance and there was some romantic interest between Moira and Rafe, but this was a very plot driven book and I think the romance kind of got lost in the shuffle. I would have characterized the book as more of an Urban Fantasy novel, with strong in-your-face characters and action. I liked the whole black magic feel of the book, with lots of biblical inflections, but it was a bit on the dark side of the spectrum. It just gave off that feel that everything paranormal is bad and some readers will have a problem with that.
I would recommend this book to Allison Brennan readers who want to see what she can do outside of her comfort zone. I would recommend it those who like dark magic and dark Urban Fantasy, I think you will really like the way this one is done. I don't think I can recommend it as a romance, as there just isn't that much romance in it. But, if definitely packs a punch and I will be reading the next book in the series, Carnal Sin when I get the chance. It wasn't quite my cup of tea, but it's the first book in the series and there is a lot of different directions the series could go. I'm optimistic... we'll see where it goes!
Original Sin is available NOW from your favorite bookseller.
I'm giving this one 3 out of 5 apples from my book bag! Just wasn't a perfect fit for me, but that doesn't mean it won't be for someone else.
Allison Brennan is the New York Times bestselling author of twelve romantic thrillers, including The Prey, Speak No Evil, Killing Fear and Sudden Death. Original Sin launches her new supernatural thriller series based on the Seven Deadly Sins. Prior to her writing career, she worked for thirteen years as a consultant in the California State Legislature. She lives in northern California with her husband, Dan, and their five children. A member of the Romance Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, and the Horror Writers Association, when she's not writing or reading, Allison enjoys playing video games and attending her kids sporting events.
Lady in the Mist (The Midwives - Book 1) by Laurie Alice Eakes
Publication Date: February 2011
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group/Revell Books
Genre: Christian Fiction/ Historical
ISBN-13: 9780800734527
ISBN: 0800734521
(Received for review from Revell Books)
Purchase: Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, IndieBound
Laurie Alice Eakes on the WEB: Website, Blog
Excerpt from Lady in the Mist
Book Trailer: This is an excellent fan-made trailer.
Synopsis (Book Blurb):
By virtue of her profession as a midwife, Tabitha Eckles is the keeper of many secrets. Dominick Cherrett is a man with his own secret to keep namely why he, a British aristocrat, is on American soil working as an indentured servant.
In a time when relations between America and England rest on the edge of a knife, Tabitha and Dominick cross paths, leading them on a journey of intrigue, threats, public disgrace, and... love. But can Tabitha trust Dominick? Finding true love seems impossible in a world set against them.
With stirring writing that draws you directly into the story, Lady in the Mist takes you on the thrilling ride of love's discovery.
Thoughts:
Laurie Alice Eakes began studying the role of midwives in history during grad school. Using her knowledge of the subject she has crafted an Christian historical novel that highlights the contributions of those in this profession while also giving the reader a tender love story, with a hint of espionage.
Tabitha Eckles is a mysterious woman. She has many secrets hidden in her heart. Working as a widwife in Virginia at the turn of the 19th century, Tabitha is suddenly caught up in a whirlwind of intrigue and adventure when she meets Dominick Cherrett, a British aristocrat, working as an indentured servant. Dominick has many secrets of his own and he must get closer to Tabitha in order to find information to redeem himself. With American men disappearing allegedly by British hands, Tabitha must decide if she can really trust Dominick. When her first love returns after a two year absence Tabitha it torn between Raleigh and Dominick. Can she really trust either of them?
This was a really interesting book. Midwifery is not a subject that I know a lot about. Only the general goings on and I felt like the author did an amazing job of weaving historical facts about the profession, as well as time period into this book. Her sense of history and what would be important for the reader to know was excellent. Her descriptions really brought Virginia in the 1800's to life. The tension between the British and the American's is palpable in the story, as the characters are caught up in the mystery of why American men seem to be disappearing from American soil. I thought the plot was refreshing and different for Christian fiction and will definitely appeal to historical fiction lovers as well as Chrisitan fiction readers.
The love triangle aspect of the book was very well written. Tabitha was jilted at the altar, so to speak by Raleigh, a fisherman and childhood friend. When he arrives back on the scene it puts our main character in a difficult position. She must choose between someone who has hurt her in the past and someone who she could possibly never be with. Dominick cannot marry while an indentured servant and when he is redeemed he is a titled peer of England. I liked both Raleigh and Dominick and it was interesting to try to figure out who was going to come out on top.
The characters themselves were well developed and I felt like the theme of secrets was revealed through each of them in different ways. Tabitha was a strong woman who had, had to endure a lot with the loss of her family and her lover. She persevered and even though she doubted her faith at times, she returned to it and found that forgiveness isn't received through penance for wrong doing but through a humble heart. Dominick was a great character, readers will love him. He is engaging and you just want to know more about him. He's mysterious and debonair and draws the interest of the reader easily. Together the relationship between Tabitha and Dominick is very tender and heartwarming.
I would recommend this book to readers of both Christian and historical fiction. The author mingles the two genres well and still gets across the main points. The Christan aspect of the book is easily integrated into the story and becomes a natural part of the novel. I think readers will find this a very refreshing book with a great plot and interesting characters.
Available February 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
I'm giving this one 4 out of 5 apples from my book bag!
The role of midwives in history began to fascinate Laurie Alice Eakes in graduate school, and she knew that someday she wanted to write novels with midwife heroines. Ten years later, after several published novels and a National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency, the midwives idea returned and Lady in the Mist was born. Now Laurie Alice writes full time from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband and sundry dogs and cats.
The Werewolf Upstairs (Strange Neighbors - Book 2) by Ashlyn Chase
Publication Date: February 2011
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Genre: Paranormal Romance
ISBN-13: 9781402236624
ISBN: 140223662X
(Received for review from Sourcebooks)
Purchase: Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, IndieBound
Ashlyn Chase on the WEB: Website, Blog, Facebook, Twitter
Excerpt from The Werewolf Upstairs
Synopsis (Book Blurb):
Petty crime never looked so good...
Alpha werewolf Konrad Wolfensen sees it as his duty to protect the citizens of Boston, even if it means breaking into their apartments just to prove their security systems don't work. But when his unsolicited services land him in trouble with the law, he'll have to turn to his sexy new neighbor for help.
She should know better...
Attorney Roz Wells is bored. She used to have such a knack for attracting the weird and unexpected, but ever since she took a job as a Boston public defender, the quirky quotient in her life has taken a serious hit. Until her sexy werewolf neighbor starts coming around...
Roz knows she should stay away from this sexy bad boy, but she can't help it that she's putty in his hands...
Thoughts:
The Strange Neighbor's series has been compared to the television show "Friends" with a paranormal twist. All of these neighbors are a little more than meets the eye. In her latest addition to the series, The Werewolf Upstairs, Ashlyn Chase will have readers howling for joy. Her unique blend of paranormal romance with a dash of humor sets her apart in an ever-changing genre.
Roz Wells didn't know what she was getting into when she moved into her best friend Merry's old apartment. She quickly learns that her neighbors are an interesting bunch, including a vampire in the basement, a ghost that could be anywhere and a very sexy werewolf. Though she's an open minded girl, she is taken aback when Konrad Wolfensen takes a romantic interest in her, after she helps him out of a tight spot with the law. When Konrad is accused of a much bigger crime it's up to Roz to prove he's innocent while trying to keep her feelings for him in check.
Ashlyn Chase has a wonderful approach to the paranormal genre. She proves once again with her latest book, The Werewolf Upstairs, that paranormal doesn't have to mean, dark and deadly. Her books are what I would consider "light" paranormal romance. She puts a humorous spin on the traditional werewolf and vampire myths that will keep readers smiling as they read her books. I really liked that aspect of her work. It is a refreshing change from the norm.
Chase has created some very interesting characters to frequent this apartment building. The supporting cast adds a great deal of flavor to the book, while giving the hero and heroine the spotlight. Roz is a great character. An accomplished young woman, who could have a hard edge, but doesn't. Her past has left her with a few scars and body image issues that she battles with constantly. I liked the way the author allowed the love of Konrad to bring her out of her shell a little bit, but also still showed her vulnerability. Readers will find it easy to identify with Roz.
Konrad is your typical sexy bad boy, with a big heart. He does what he has to do since he was kicked out of his position as headmaster of a private boys school ran primarily by his pack. But, he isn't expecting to find someone like Roz living practically next door. I loved the way the author portrayed him as this "adonis" who is interested in the girl that isn't exactly a model. I think readers will find that amusing and in some ways hopeful.
I really enjoyed the lighter side of paranormal with this one. It definitely packs some heat, so I be advised. The romance between Konrad and Roz is blistering. Very passionate and very hot, which I love in a good romance. I recommend this one to readers who want something a little different in the paranormal spectrum. Paranormal romance readers will love it and fans of Ashlyn Chase will be eagerly awaiting the next one.
The Werewolf Upstairs is available NOW from your favorite bookseller.
I'm giving this one 5 out of 5 apples from my book bag!
A mutli-published eBook author, Ashlyn Chase specializes in characters who reinvent themselves, having reinvented herself numerous times. She has worked as a psychiatric nurse, and for the Red Cross, and has a degree in behavioral sciences. She lives with her true-life hero husband in beautiful New Hampshire.
Shelia at, Book Journey, gets all the credit for this one...
The Mistress House by Leigh Micheals (For review from Sourcebooks)
One Hundred Candles by Mara Purnhagen (For review from Net Galley)
Angel Sister by Ann H. Gabhart (For review from Revell)
The Me Project by Kathi Lipp (For review from Kathy Willis Communications)
Journey to Riverbend by Henry McLaughlin (For review from Tyndale)
The Bridge of Peace (Ada's House - Book 2) by Cindy Woodsmall (For review from Waterbrook Multnomah)
Curiosity Thrilled the Cat (The Magical Cats - Book 1) by Sophie Kelly (For review from Berkley/Obsidian)
Powers by John B. Olson (For review from the author)
