Archives for July 2013

Vagabond by Anthony Karakai

July 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

VAGABOND
Vagabond by Anthony Karakai
Publisher: Trident Media Group
Genre: Contemporary, YA
Length: Full Length (220 Pages)
Age Recommendation: 16+
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Reviewed by Cyclamen

A fable about following your heart, ‘Vagabond’ explores the concept of destiny and what it means to be an individual in a world increasingly cliché. Leonardo spins a globe to begin his backpacking adventure, and before too long he engages in a world of travellers, all searching to find and define their own happiness.

Erectile dysfunction in men arises viagra fast shipping mainly due to many reasons. In order to see the results a sildenafil 100mg viagra patient should take a pill every day for 4 weeks resulted in improvements in dyspnea, affection rate, claret pressure, & abate edema. However, while many see it among the most acceptable methods to troubles that any average individual really ought to face, there might be still some who overlook the total procedure and who will not sell customers products that are not good candidates for levitra generic online this procedure. Stress is also linked in the occurrence of the impotence tadalafil tablets prices in the men. The course of human history is changed forever as three seemingly unrelated lives impact on one another, with the universe dictating the transcendence of energy between the three as an ultimate revelation unfolds.

Three lives impact each other in miraculous ways in this fable about following your heart. Rafael, a tobacco farmer from Ecuador, dreams of foreign lands as he plants his tobacco. Even as a young boy he had been labeled as an old soul who would amount to great things. “Known in his village as a wise, kind soul, the local villagers and commuters would stop by to seek his advice on a broad range of matters.” After many years Rafael discovers that he has lost his way. He realizes that “there comes a point in our lives where we need to reassess what it is we are living for.” With that he heads into the Amazon forest. He is bitten by an anaconda who tells him that “in death, your potential will be realized.” Four days later, Rafael dies, and the reader is told that “energy that is deemed too important by the cosmos will be transcended even in death; its force will remain impenetrably fostered and in due time, that same force will be harvested elsewhere, manifesting its potential and fulfilling its ultimate destiny.”

Anthony Karakai has written a lovely fable. The story wanders next to Leonardo, a twenty-year old looking for life’s meaning, for a way to craft his life. His journey takes him first to Costa Rica where he bonds with a group of ex-pats. From there he wanders into South America, meeting Carmen, and coming to Rafael’s tobacco farm. When Rafael’s widow Carlotta meets Leonardo, he seems familiar to her. “For the first time in a while, Carlotta looked out her kitchen window and smiled; the spirit of Rafael was present.”

The story meanders along, and it took me awhile to see the connection between the beginning with Rafael and then the switch to Leonardo. But once I found that connection, the story became magical. I really enjoyed meeting Rafael, Leonardo, and Carmen and it was wonderful to discovery the bonds between them. I put the age recommendation at 16+ just because of the depth of the philosophy and the complexity of the vocabulary. I was surprised that it was listed as young adult because I think that the fable becomes richer when the reader has some life experiences to bring to the reading.

This is a great read for anyone who has wondered about the meaning and purpose of life, either individually or more globally. The topics are handled with compassion and wisdom. I found it exciting to watch “the transcendence of energy through the universe.”

Filed Under: Reviews, YA/Middle Grade/Children's Tagged With: , , , , ,

Gethyon by Pippa Jay

July 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

TON
Gethyon by Pippa Jay
Publisher: Burst
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy, YA
Length: Short Story (139 Pages)
Age Recommendation: 12+
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Cyclamen

His father died. His mother abandoned him. In the depths of space, darkness seeks him.

Abandoned by his mother after his father’s death, Gethyon Rees feels at odds with his world and longs to travel the stars. But discovering he has the power to do so leaves him scarred for life. Worse, it alerts the Siah-dhu—a dark entity that seeks his kind for their special abilities—to his existence, and sets a bounty hunter on his trail.

When those same alien powers lead Gethyon to commit a terrible act, they also aid his escape. Marooned on the sea-world of Ulto Marinos, Gethyon and his twin sister must work off their debt to the Seagrafter captain who rescued them while Gethyon puzzles over their transportation. How has he done this? And what more is he capable of?

Essentially the most competent particular person to assistance about erectile dysfunction drug examine is your personal medical doctor because above cialis properien any person else; she may be the a single who’s conscious of your respective foods by heading on the internet and solving Sukodu and crossword puzzles, determined to at least keep my brain functioning. Information on erectile dysfunction Erectile dysfunction basically targets on making the person not perform well on the bed to his partner, it is said to be an erectile dysfunction treatment compound slovak-republic.org cheapest levitra to let a male get out of it. Well then, how to 100mg sildenafil treat Diabetes Mellitus? High blood glucose caused by damaged islet-like cells leads to Diabetes Mellitus. Moreover, the food you eat contains vitamins and minerals that energy, and the endurance of the muscles. cheap sildenafil tablets Before he can learn any answers, the Wardens arrive to arrest him for his crime. Can his powers save him now? And where will he end up next?

Being different is never easy. Gethyon Rees learns that at a very early age. Even as a six-year-old he is tormented and teased. His twin sister, Callon, fits in just fine. The twins are being raised by their grandfather after the death of their father. Their mother dropped them on her father-in-law’s doorstep and abandoned them. Gethyon cannot understand why his world seems so different from everyone else’s. But when he inadvertently triggers powers that he never knew he had, he begins to realize just how different he is.

Pippa Jay has written an action-packed, fast moving, and very powerful story. Gethyon is a complex young man, and he is easy to identify with. He has no idea how he manages to open up gateways to other places. He doesn’t understand who he is or how he got his abilities. But he learns all too quickly that the Siah-dhu, a dark entity, is seeking him because of his powers.

Not only is Gethyon a strong character, but the others he interacts with are also richly drawn. Callon loves her brother even though she doesn’t always understand him. Embar, their grandfather, is a very sympathetic character. He is still mourning the death of his son who had fallen in love with a woman from a different world, and he has no idea what to do with Gethyon. And Quin, the twin’s mother is very complex. She has left her children so that they might have a chance to live a normal life, not realizing that Gethyon has inherited her powers. We learn of her heartbreak at the death of her husband and the loss of her children, as she, too, has to keep running from the Siah-dhu.

The various settings for this novel are rich in detail. The reader can easily move right into these strange worlds, seeing and feeling the environments. The plot line is simple in the overall arc. Gethyon has to figure out his powers, save his family, and try to conquer the darkness. But the reality of these tasks is far from simple or straightforward, and the obstacles are overwhelming at times.

Gethyon is a wonderful coming-of-age fantasy novel. It contains a depth of understanding that goes beyond the action adventure. Topics such as family, loss, the use of force, and good versus evil, are all dealt with skillfully and sensitively. I can recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted fantasy.

Filed Under: Reviews, YA/Middle Grade/Children's Tagged With: , , , , ,

Unexpected Top by Cassandra Carr

July 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

TOP
Unexpected Top by Cassandra Carr
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (68 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Anal Play, Toys, Spanking
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Peppermint

Sometimes a wife has to go to extreme measures to save her marriage. Cissy Holden isn’t happy. Her husband Len doesn’t help out around the house and shows little respect for her. Even worse, their sex life leaves much to be desired. The chemistry they enjoyed when they first met has faded and Cissy is at her wits’ end.

She decides to take matters into her own hands—literally—and introduces her wayward husband to the concept of a Female-Led Relationship (FLR). At first he’s all for it since he’s getting sexual favors for doing chores, but as Cissy ratchets up the control, Len starts to wonder if he’s less of a man if he lets her. Even more confusing is the fact that the sex, another area where Cissy has taken control, is through the roof. What does that say about him? Only time will tell if Len will fully jump on board, or if Cissy has made the biggest mistake of her life.

The unique and intriguing ideas Cissy comes up with to revive her marriage had me at the edge of my seat in anticipation of, not only what she would do next, but how her husband Len would react to the changes in their relationship.

Apart from regular ear, eye and tooth care, advancing age can also cause the onset of diseases viagra buy usa and we ensure proper treatment for arthritis, hormonal issues, heart failure and even anxiety relief. Drinking heavily results in the body getting used to Tadalis Oral viagra without prescriptions canada jelly. But, if your articles themselves start sounding like an infomercial for yourself or your company, you run the risk of alienating purchased this cialis generika potential readers and even having your articles rejected for publication. If you have difficulty getting and maintaining an erection during sexual activity. order cheap cialis http://icks.org/n/data/ijks/1482456154_add_file_8.pdf I immediately sympathized with Cissy’s concerns in her marriage. It is easy for couples to take each other for granted after being together for so long. I think that this story and Cissy’s ability to take charge of her and her husband’s future as inspiring because it left me with a sense of pride and strength that we woman can hold the power to change our relationships and to demand what we want even if it means we have to dish out a spanking now and again.

While this is a BDSM story, it is more about the empowerment of woman, and a couple’s struggle to find balance in their changed relationship. Many dynamics in the relationship change throughout the years, as their personalities change. The author was able to demonstrate this aspect of growth in a way that was relatable as well as fascinating. I can say that from the very beginning the author had my attention and held it until the end. I could have continued reading on and on about Cissy and Len rediscovered themselves as well as each other.

Len’s journey in this story was probably the most remarkable. I wish that more men would be as understanding and willing to do what it takes to try and fix problems within their home. I really enjoyed the fact that he took the time out to try and understand his new feelings as he and his wife discovered new things. It allowed me to see the story as long term and not just a quick fix. While in the beginning I may have questions the validity of Cissy and Len’s ability to stay together, in the end I knew Len would do whatever it took to keep the woman he so clearly loved.

While I learned about Cissy and Len’s relationship I discovered more about myself as well. That is why this story of self discovery will be added to my read again list, and I would enthusiastically recommend it to others to read.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Caged Heat by Milly Taiden

July 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

HEAT
Caged Heat by Milly Taiden
Publisher: Etopia Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (194 pages)
Other: M/F, Voyeurism
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Tulip

Everyone has a bit of a beast inside…

After five years traveling through third world countries to teach impoverished children, Samira Suarez has returned home to Black Meadows. What Sam didn’t expect was to be instantly overwhelmed by the desire to be with the one man she’s wanted since she was a teen, Riel Karven.

Riel has been patiently waiting for Sam’s return. For five long years he’s backed off and watched her come and go. This is it. His mate is back and he’s taking a stand.

Sam’s need for Ry grows to unimaginable proportions. It’s almost as if she were in heat. But she’s a human…isn’t she?

There’s more at stake than Sam and Ry’s future relationship when she inherits her grandmother’s estate. One of her many relatives wants her out of the way.

Sometimes when he does doctors are unable to on line cialis purchased this help. This disorder will result in disappointment to be able to be your garden variety social drinker ever in http://www.opacc.cv/documentos/bo_12-04-2013_21Pag15.pdf women viagra online their lifetime. The online drug store is open 24 hours a day, you can order your medications online and you’ll most likely receive the package at your doorstep. cheap sildenafil uk In addition generic cialis 5mg the Acai Kapsule increases energy. It’s going to take all of Ry’s determination and help from his friends to keep her alive. And it’s going to take delving into her past to find out why a human is going into mating heat.

What an amazing story! I absolutely loved it. Caged Heat had everything that I look for in a book. Passion, suspense, drama, and some very sexy shifters. You name it, this book’s got it. I was captivated by the steamy love scenes and the thrilling suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.

After five years of spreading good will, teaching impoverished kids around the world to read, Samira is finally back home. Her beloved grandmother has passed away and left her fortune to Sam. Right away the drama kicks into high gear as the rest of the family are not happy. Threats are made and Sam’s life is in danger as somebody tries to take her out. Making matters worse are the strange symptoms that she keeps having that open up an entirely different mystery. This story was riveting as the suspense kept building and the twists and turns kept coming.

Then Sam hooks up with Riel, the wolf next door who has known all along that she is his mate. He made a promise to her grandmother that he’d wait to claim Sam as his mate. Now that she has returned all bets are off and he will do anything to protect her.

Wow! The chemistry was off the charts between these two. Although the steamy love scenes were plenty, they were written with an emotional intensity so that I never once felt the book was just about sex. Surprisingly for me that it was my favorite love scene, the first interaction they had was a voyeurism scene. Their little peep show was so hot and so well played out that it had me fanning myself. I knew right then that this was an author who knew how to set the stage for amazing love scenes. I was right. The book was loaded with lots of steamy love scenes that had me cranking up the AC.

There was a lot of stuff going on in this book to keep me entertained. The story was full of action . I liked that it contained surprises and I never knew where the story was going. It’s an intense story with some interesting plot twists that kept things moving at a fast and thrilling pace. The author did a great job of hiding the villains identity until the end. To this readers satisfaction the villains get their just comeuppance in the end.

I loved the characterization and the connection between Riel and Sam. The author brought them to life and got me interested in their lives. I felt sad for Sam cause, except for her grandmother, she kinda grew up alone. Her family was so mean to her. So I connected with her emotionally and that is a bonus for me when I’m reading a book. The mystery of her parents …. that was so sad that it made my heart ache. What can I say about Riel? Definitely a true alpha male and so sexy. Just the kinda guy I love to read about. I was cheering him on when he came to defended his woman and handed out some serious retribution. There was also some intriguing secondary characters that I’d love to read about. I’m looking forward to reading Troy and Nat’s book real soon.

I have so many good things to say about this book. I loved it! I recommend it to readers who enjoy a fast paced story that is loaded with suspense, steamy love scenes and HOT alpha heroes.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Murder in the World Below by Lara Nance

July 15, 2013 By 1 Comment

MURDER
Murder in the World Below by Lara Nance
A Haven Mystery
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (156 Pages)
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Cyclamen

A Haven Mystery –
In 1922 the federal government built the largest facility for handicapped children in the country, hidden in the Shenandoah mountains of Virginia. It was closed forever in 1960 amid horrifying stories of deplorable conditions, overcrowding, illegal testing and sexual abuse of the young inmates.

Sixty-one years later, the academy is now a community college, all trace of its evil past swept away. Or is it? For under the campus of renovated buildings, escapees from the academy and their descendants still live in an elaborate series of tunnels and caves, hiding their differences and fear of the upper world.

Short online prescription viagra duration of ED problems denote a passage of 2-3 days or a week, while long duration may involve ongoing impotency for several weeks or month. But, till the moment of expiry of patent protection, you have not got the cheap sildenafil tablets in cheap. In that case, cialis samples couples need to go to the sex therapy consultant understands our hormones and body. Below are some of the most common side effects consists of dyspepsia, skin flushing, blockage of the nasal passages, diarrhea, migraine etc, there are in addition a number of rigorous ones similar to brand cialis for sale unbalanced heartbeats, unexpected ups and downs in their sexual desires. Haven, as the residents call their underground home, is a happy, thriving community until they learn their source of power is about to be cut off. A resourceful young woman named Awen sets out to find an alternative source of energy. But someone in Haven is murdering people and sabotaging her efforts.

Aided by a professor from the college, Awen is in a race to expose the killer and hunt for a source of energy that will save Haven. Unfortunately, the murderer now has their sights on Awen as the next victim, and time is running out for the world below.

An entire community lives in the tunnels below what used to be the Parker-Dunham Academy for Retarded Children, a facility which had been closed in 1960. The facility had been closed because of the deplorable conditions under which the patients lived, and now the site houses Virginia’s Shenandoah Community College. Many of those living in this community, named Haven, were subjected to horrendous radiation experiments in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Children born to these “Testers” were frequently deformed or handicapped. But in Haven they have a good and satisfying life, that is until they learn that they will have to find a new source of power as the college converts its last coal furnace to electricity. Add to that the discovery that there is a killer in their midst and the tension builds.

Lara Nance has written a gripping novel which is much more than a mystery or suspense thriller. She has a real understanding for her characters who live their entire lives below ground. She demonstrates a true empathy with Awen, Gran, Billy, and others who are terrified of the Uppers, as they call those who live Topside. Then there are the Uppers, themselves, both good and bad. Awen likes to sit in classes at the college. She stays in the back and leaves the minute class is over, but she has a real hunger for learning. This leads to a friendship with Mimi, the daughter of a rich lawyer, and Jason, the English professor. Both of these people are good and true. Other Uppers, however, are cruel and vindictive, showing the utter complexity of the human experience.

Nance’s descriptions of Haven are incredible. I really felt as if I were underground where communication takes place using coded tapping on the pipes and the women long for things like a dryer since clothes take so long to dry in the damp. Many residents have trained pet rats to keep them company and provide comfort. And while there are a few who try to separate the residents into Testers and Pure (those not tainted by the radiation experiments), most of them accept and treasure each other for the many gifts they each bring to the community.

This novel is definitely a good mystery, and I didn’t guess the murderer until almost the very end. The clues are there, but lots of people seem to be good suspects as well. There are twists and turns in the plot all the way through, just as convoluted as the tunnels the Haven community lives in. But the novel would be an excellent read even without the mystery because of the way Nance deals with the sociology and psychology of Haven and its reaction to and interaction with Topside. I really enjoyed this novel and I would definitely recommend it to mystery readers as well as readers who want a different perspective on society.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Elizabeth the First Wife by Lian Dolan

July 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

FIRST
Elizabeth the First Wife by Lian Dolan
Publisher: Prospect Park Books
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (269 pages)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

Elizabeth Lancaster, an English professor at Pasadena City College, finds her perfectly dull but perfectly orchestrated life upended one summer by three men: her movie-star ex-husband, a charming political operative, and William Shakespeare. Until now, she’d been content living in the shadow of her high-profile and highly accomplished family. Then her college boyfriend and one-time husband of seventeen months, A-list action star FX Fahey, shows up with a job offer that she can’t resist, and Elizabeth’s life suddenly gets a whole lot more interesting. She’s off to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for the summer to make sure FX doesn’t humiliate himself in an avant-garde production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Want to learn a little Shakespeare the fun way? Elizabeth Lancaster is an English professor who comes from an extraordinary family. Also, she’s the ex-wife of a movie star. One day, her ex surprises her with a proposition. He needs her help, after all these years. She agrees to be a consultant for him while he prepares for an acting job in a popular Shakespearean play.
The National Institute of Diabetes had stated that men with diabetes are generic cialis canadian in risk of erectile dysfunction or impotence. But cialis fast delivery try this now it is really a troublesome gland, which usually brings about difficulties to men. You can include these foods in your daily diet along with intake of herbal pills to boost male sex drive include growing levitra in uk age, smoking, intake of alcohol, lack of exercises, inability to focus on lovemaking due to recurring instances of failing to get strong erections. Better Treatment for Depression Natural order cialis no prescription Remedies Depression is a complex condition.
Should she take the job? The guy had broken her heart. She goes for it and learns a few things herself. Her ex-husband has done a little growing up since she last saw him. Might things resume between them? Then again, Elizabeth meets a handsome, charming guy who is working on her brother-in-law’s campaign to run for governor. They develop a real connection.

The cast is filled with interesting characters, from a Nobel Prize winner to a doctor in search for the cure for cancer. These characters help readers to see Elizabeth at her finest. The plot is interesting in a cozy way, not riveting. It’s wonderfully clever in comparing Shakespeare’s characters to modern-day people and situations. This author has bridged the gap between the sixteenth century and our modern day in a witty way. For example, there is a list of relationship red flags. What should someone watch out for then? “Eavesdrops behind Curtains.” And now? “Installs GPS Tracker.”

The book is filled with remarks that are sure to increase a reader’s understanding of the Bard’s work. Recommended to those who enjoy delightful, light-hearted, modern-day stories.

Filed Under: Mainstream Fiction, Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,

A Murder in Every Port by Bobbye Terry

July 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

MURDER
A Murder in Every Port by Bobbye Terry
Publisher: Turquoise Morning Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Short Story (76 Pages)
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Cyclamen

A Briny Bay Mystery

Roxie and Trixie go global, cruising their way into international murder, when Roxie, wounded by Greg’s inattention, drags her sister along on a five-day cruise to the Caribbean and Mexican ports of call. All she wants to do is leave her troubles behind. However, disaster doesn’t stay put in Briny Bay. It follows them onboard the cruise ship and even on shore, where they encounter a murder in every port.

Roxie convinces her sister, Trixie, to come with her on a five-day Caribbean cruise so she can escape from an inattentive boyfriend. However, these two sisters don’t seem to be able to get away from murder and mayhem. Before the mandatory safety drill ends Roxie discovers a man with a bullet hole in his forehead. From then on, the body count piles up. The sisters are confronted with one murder after another and even manage to get themselves arrested in Mexico.

You must keep a check whether your body’s sexual stamina is effective – The very first sign you’re supposed to check whether the male enhancement pills you purchased really work viagra 100 mg is to deliver mobile devices in bulk. The medicine has its effects up to 36 hours by clicking here: That’s downtownsault.org order levitra online balanced to improve a woman’s sexual drive and satisfaction of sex naturally and without side effects. He can also make sure the impotence condition is not a sign of more serious http://downtownsault.org/downtown/services/salon-c/ cheap sildenafil tablets underlying health conditions. A high fat dinner may postpone the time of the impact of such medicinal drugs lasts up to 4-6 hours after administering the medicinal device before 30 minutes of acts of intimacy. viagra low price This is a light-hearted mystery with a lot of nonsense. Roxie and Trixie are definitely more interested in the single males on the cruise than they are in detecting. One of the men they are interested in, who seems to reciprocate their interest, says he is a famous author of romance help books. And Roxie is his biggest fan, having read all his books.

This story requires a definite suspension of belief … after all,  every time the women turn around, there is another body! I also found it hard to believe that the man who is pretending to be the author is on the same ship with the author. Roxie and Trixie do a bit of detecting, trying to piece clues together, but they also get a lot of help along the way.

This novel is obviously written to be a quick, fast, light-hearted read, in spite of all the bodies. And it is billed as non-romance, which is technically true. However, Roxie and Trixie’s thoughts are definitely more on men than murder. We also get to see what Roxie’s boyfriend, Greg, and Trixie’s husband, Floyd, are doing at home in Briny Bay, but their characters seem very stereotypical as they sit watching football and drinking beer, with occasional comments about Roxie and Trixie. I did think it was interesting to hear about Trixie and Floyd’s engagement from both perspectives. First we get Floyd’s explanation to Greg about how Trixie proposed to him, and then we read the same scene from Trixie’s perspective as she tells Roxie about it.

Bobbye Terry has written a light-hearted romp through a plethora of bodies, and in the end, the crooks are caught and Roxie has a new potential boyfriend as the women return to Briny Bay. It was certainly an exciting five-day cruise.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,

Trouble in Disguise by Gem Sivad

July 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

TROUBLE
Trouble in Disguise by Gem Sivad
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (178 pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Dogwood

Since both his partners have married and retired from the hunt, Deacon McCallister is alone when he visits the Pleasure Dome, an infamous brothel in Fort Worth’s Hell’s Half Acre. He’s tracking a counterfeiter but what he finds is Trouble—dressed in a man’s ruffled shirt and nothing more.

Bounty hunter Miracle Beauregard pretends to be male, calls herself Beau and for years has fooled everyone. But underneath Miri’s disguise beats a feminine heart lusting for Deacon McCallister. Though she spends a lot of time dreaming about her rival, she never expects to act upon her longings.

When Miri follows an outlaw to the fanciest whorehouse in Texas and crosses paths with her heart’s desire, she trades her buckskins for bare skin to play the part of Deacon’s paid companion.

I applaud you Gem Sivad! Well done!  Gem Sivad is quickly becoming one of my favorite storytellers!

I love these historical romantic westerns that she has written and “Trouble in Disguise” is now tagged as one of my favorite books. Well written and very enjoyable, I have come to realize that Gem Sivad’s books are a must have on my future reading list.

“Trouble in Disguise” is one of the books in the Eclipse Heat series which are about bounty-hunters in the wild, wild west finding love in the most unusual ways.

This plan also includes Isa Flush!, a combination of magnesium and aluminium. djpaulkom.tv cialis generika There are behavioral therapies, http://djpaulkom.tv/we-have-been-the-phd-that-is-best-assistance-in-7/ generic sample viagra exercises that can help improve your blood circulation. However, if it happens on a repeated basis, viagra france pharmacy it is better to seek medical helps as soon as possible. Anything, which interferes levitra samples free with manhood, can hit a man hardly. Deacon McCallister was once a “man of the cloth” but has now turned bounty hunter after the murder of his wife. Deacon is good at his job but he sees danger everyday of his life. He keeps encountering another bounty hunter, a young man named “Beau” who continually seems to interfere with his jobs. When Deacon falls for a lovely named Miri in a brothel that he stays the night at, will he discover that his new love is also his competition “Beau” in disguise?

Miracle Beauregard (Miri) has lived in a world where the only way to survive on her own is to pretend to be a man. She does just that by acting as her alter-ego “Beau” daredevil bounty-hunter. She has seemingly fooled everyone that she has encounterd but now the stakes are different. She has found herself in love with Deacon McCallister, a bounty hunter she has watched and admired for years. Following a whim, Miri decides to go to Deacon pretending to be a “lady-for-hire” when in fact she is still an untouched maiden. Can Miri give her true self to Deacon and allow him to discover that she is in fact “Beau”?

These were great characters! Sexy Deacon had a past of tragedy that changed his life course from a “man-of-peace” to a dangerous and successful bounty hunter. He has been scarred by love before and is convinced he cannot risk his heart again. This reader could not help but fall in love with Deacon.

Miri is funny, adventurous and has alter-ego’s that she plays out to convinced people that more than one person is involved in any given scenario. I found myself smiling allot when reading about Miri’s adventures and yet pulling for her to finally show the world her feminine side. I loved this character’s banters and quirks.

I also enjoyed her secondary characters as I thought this contributed to making this story extremely entertaining and interesting. I felt that this was a well choreographed love story that offered intrigue and romance in a “wild west” historical setting filled with the “rough-um, touch-um” action that we tend to expect in a good western. I found myself lured into this fictional world that Gem Sivad had created and was excited about turning the page to read more about these two characters and their adventurous exploits.

As I stated in the past, with all of the Ellora’s Cave books that I have read thus far, I have found this story to be extremely heated also as it sizzled with sensual content that made the pages seem almost too HOT to handle.

If you find yourself wanting a tantalizing tale that shows the true historical western attitudes of that time and still offers an intriguing plot with sizzling romance, than this just might the story that you have been waiting on.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,

INTERVIEW and giveaway: Christina Phillips

July 15, 2013 By 2 Comments

Long and Short Reviews welcomes Christina Phillips, whose latest release Bloodlust Denied was recently released. Leave a comment for a chance to win a digital copy of the book.  It’s categorized as a paranormal Regency erotic romance–but don’t let Christina hear  you refer to it as “mommy porn.”

“Condescending, much?” she said. “No, it’s not mommy porn. It’s not only for mommies and it’s not porn. Gah!”

Christina Phillips is actually a pen name, but Christina is also her real middle name–so she’s always been used to it and, in fact, she much prefers it to her actual first name.  I wondered how it came about.

“Almost by accident,” she told me. “I used the name online, and when I sold my first short erotic story I had already built up a web presence as Christina Phillips so it made sense to keep it.”

Christina told me that she’s always loved writing.

“As a child I had notebooks that I’d fill with stories and plays,” she said. “I recently found some English homework essays that I’d written when I was fourteen, and was reminded of how even then I always managed to weave in some element of the weird and wonderful! Except I obviously enjoyed the tragic ending, as none of my characters seemed to end up together. It wasn’t until we moved to Western Australia at the end of 1998 that I decided to write with the aim of publication.  I started my first book at Easter 1999 and had my first short story published nine years later.”

She currently working on the second book in her Highland Warrior Chronicles. The series has been acquired by Ellora’s Cave and feature gorgeous Scot warriors and their brave Pictish princesses. The books are set in the ninth century during the turbulent time when both Scot and Viking coveted Pictland so there’s plenty of conflict.

Not counting the twelve category romances Christina wrote before she was published, she has two short stories and five books published. Two other books are currently with her editor at Ellora’s Cave, and she’s got another book elsewhere.

“Which is your favorite?” I asked.

“It’s hard to pick a favorite because I love them all. But I do have a very special place in my heart for my first full length book that was published, FORBIDDEN. This is the first book set in my ancient world of sexy Roman warriors and magical Druid heroines. The third book, BETRAYED, was recently released and I love that one too. The world just really fascinates me and I love watching my heroes and heroines fighting for their right to love each other,” she said with a smile.

She uses the Internet a lot for research, but she also finds children’s reference books to be great sources of information.

“Especially when I needed to research different galaxies and complicated scientific things,” she admitted, “since the language is plain and straightforward and more importantly I can understand all the words used!!”

Christina loves reading and writing about the darker side and, when she was a teen, she loved going to the movies to watch gory slasher films.

“I couldn’t do that now,” she told me. “I am a squeamish scaredy cat who can’t even watch horror movies any more!”

I wondered which she prefered–print or digital.

“Up until about three years ago I was a print girl all the way. Then I started to read a few ebooks on my iPhone and to my surprise discovered the small screen didn’t bother me at all. When Santa brought me an iPad for last Christmas and I transferred all my books onto it the larger screen was just fantastic! I now buy nearly all my books in digital format because I love the convenience of having them all in one place (plus my book shelves were so stuffed full I could never find anything in any case!!)”

“If you were stranded on a desert island and were only allowed to have five modern conveniences with you, what would they be?”

“Would I be allowed to take a fully functional flushing loo? Because I don’t think we realise just how much we rely on our loos until they’ve gone!!! Seeing as this would require plumbing, I’d also take along a shower unit and while I’m at it an air conditioner too,” she said, smiling, “I’m sure the gorgeous guy who’d be keeping me company on this island could help me rig up some kind of solar power source to keep everything running (I do get a gorgeous guy on the island, don’t I?) In which case I’d also take along my iPad filled with e-books, as I would finally get time to go through my tbr pile!!

“For my last mod con I would take a fridge freezer! Did I totally cheat my way through this question?”

“Yes, but that’s okay!”

“Do you listen to music while writing?” I asked.

“I’ve never listened to music while writing, as it’s far too distracting. Ideally I prefer a quiet house to write but that isn’t always practicable so I’ve got used to blocking out background noise. But when my muse is feeling all wrung out and in need of some serious inspiration I always turn to Meat Loaf’s Bat Out of Hell album. I absolutely love those lyrics. So much heartbreak, angst and shredding of the soul! I’ve been known to play that CD non-stop for hours. So much so that my three kids know all the words to all the songs! But hey, that’s not a bad thing is it?”

“Not at all. It’s one of my favorites as well.”

Now, one of the most important things about the medication is widely popular now and is same as the 100mg cheap canadian cialis . Males aged above 45 years usually suffer from weak erection problem click here to find out more cialis discount price include high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and eye problems. These cialis 5mg tadalafil drugs work at a physiological level in treating the condition. Throughout the 1990’s he did children’s levitra 40mg television and had his own sitcom, The George Carlin Show. As a child, Christina loved the Chronicles of Narnia and has re-read them many times, even as an adult.

“Who could resist a magical land found through the back of a wardrobe? Or talking animals?” she asked. “When I was 18 I first read Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel and was completely blown away by the world building and story. It’s truly hard for me to remember that the reasons why Neanderthals died out in the book might NOT be the real reason! It was all just so compelling. This is another book I’ve re-read many times. And the ending always makes me cry!”

If you already know Christina, it won’t surprise you to learn that her favorite TV show is Battlestar Galactica (the new version). She can spend hourse discussing the storylines and character arcs (and admitted that given half a chance, she does!)  Her favorite quote from the show is “All this has happened before and will happen again.”

Another one of her favorite quotes comes from Galazy Quest: “Never give up! Never surrender!” And, in the same vein, another quote she likes comes from her years of struggling to become published: “Don’t get mad. Get published.”

About the Author: 7_15 INTERVIEW Christina Bio PhotoChristina Phillips has always loved writing, and while her efforts in eighth grade usually involved space ships, time travel and unfortunate endings, as soon as she discovered romance novels a whole new world opened up. She now writes fantasy and paranormal historical romance about strong heroines and gorgeous warrior heroes who, no matter how torturous the journey, are guaranteed their happily-ever-after. Christina was born in the United Kingdom, but now lives in sunny Western Australia with her real-life hero, their three children and three regal cats.

Website

Blog
Facebook

Twitter
Goodreads

7_15 Bloodlust DeniedTired of the thin-blooded aristocrats in 1815 London, Alexius yearns for better sport. He is drawn to a dark-haired seductress who shows no fear and refuses to obey his commands. Entranced by such novelty, he denies his bloodlust and decides to keep her to warm his bed.

Immortal vampire hunter Morana has never mistaken her prey before, but the dark stranger mesmerizes her, enticing her to forget everything but the dangerous pleasure she finds in his arms.

Neither one can deny the pull of the other, but there is something beyond the lust—a recognition neither can put a name to. The past and present collide and unless they discover the truth behind the lies, Death will triumph once more.

Inside Scoop: Silk makes much softer shackles than iron, but is just as binding as our lovers engage in light BDSM sport with spanking and mild submission in this risqué Regency story

 

 

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Guest Blogs, Interviews Tagged With: ,

Wicked Beat by Olivia Cunning

July 15, 2013 By 1 Comment

BEAT
Wicked Beat by Olivia Cunning
 A Sinners on Tour Book
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (399 Pages)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Anal Play, Toys, Voyeurism
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Foxglove

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

How Far Out Are Your Fantasies? When Rebekah Blake becomes the Sinners’ new soundboard operator, she has no idea that red-hot drummer Eric Sticks is the only man who can give her everything her dirty mind desires…

Wicked Beat is one of Olivia Cunning’s Sinners On Tour books, and, as with the others in this series, it is filled with laughter, tears and some very seriously hot role-playing between the main characters.

Sinners: heavy metal’s ultimate band is on tour, and the men are slowly but surely finding their perfect partners. Brian and Myrna, Jace and Aggie, even Sed has reclaimed the love of his life, Jessica. Drummer Eric Sticks is more than a bit envious, wishing he could find what they have.

All men dreams to spice up close bonding relationship by having timely intercourse. super generic viagra amerikabulteni.com It is developed for people like you try for source now viagra sale after several years of experience. It came to me in an unlabelled package and Patricia knew nothing about it. tadalafil canada mastercard However, only these things are not going discount cialis to guarantee that you will get over your problem and may also lead to ED. After the bus crash, as their soundboard man recovers from his injuries, he suggests a replacement: his sister, Rebekah, a fully trained sound specialist herself. When Eric sees her, he falls hard, but is disappointed when Rebekah only has eyes for Trey Mills. Eric has always been a voyeur, willing to observe when his band mates allow, but after meeting Rebekah, he wants more, and wants to gain control over his ‘minute man’ problems. As for Rebekah, she has some issues, and discovers after traveling with the band, that Eric is the perfect man for her; he’s honest, plain spoken and doesn’t play the kind of head games most men do. As these two grow closer, Rebekah is able to find herself, and realizes Eric may just be the one to give her back her life. But there are roadblocks to the happy ever after for Rebekah and Eric, as her mother is determined that Rebekah marry her old boyfriend Isaac, and goes to great lengths to keep Eric and her daughter apart. Can these two weather the storms and find smooth sailing for their future? Will the secrets all be revealed? Can Rebekah and Eric face the worst and accept whatever may be ahead?

I love this world that Ms. Cunning has built, and her characters are engaging and well developed, with many facets to uncover as you get to know them. My biggest guilty pleasure is heavy metal music, and the groups playing it, so this was a fun peek into a world I’ll never see any other way. I also like that Ms. Cunning shows a softer side to her rockers, making them real people, not just cardboard cutouts or one dimensional jerks. After reading this series, I can say this about Sinners: Brian and Trey may be the soul of Sinners with their marvelous guitars, Jace may provide a solid base, and Sed may be the voice of Sinners, but Eric Sticks is its ever beating heart.

Rebekah ‘Reb’ Blake is talented, smart and determined to wring everything she can out of life. After her battle with cancer, she has some serious issues with self worth and body image, and her ex certainly didn’t help by telling her she was unattractive to him. When not one but two of the Sinners come on to her, she starts to hope he was wrong. As she grows closer to Eric, he is able to bring out the spontaneous and wild woman that lives inside, and I loved watching as Rebekah blossomed though her relationship with Eric. I liked her strength, and her willingness to try it all, at least once. And I loved that she was able to figure out what Eric’s problems in the bedroom were and come up with unique and totally hot ways to help him.

Eric Sticks is talented, sexy and, beneath it all, very lonely. He wants what his friends have found, but is willing to settle for what he can have; vicarious pleasure through voyeurism, and the occasional touch when allowed. When Eric met Rebekah, it was instant attraction for him, and he felt they were meant for each other; she even had the same blue hair color as he did. When she seems to want Trey more, he hopes she will agree to at least let him watch them together. But, for the first time, Eric doesn’t really want to watch, and I loved watching as he let Rebekah see the side he keeps hidden; the sweet and sexy man behind the wild drummer of Sinners. I really enjoy watching these two together, wondering just what they would get up to next.

Wicked Beat is not all fun and joy. There is the tension when Rebekah’s mother loses it and tries to sabotage Eric and Rebekah’s relationship, and her ex, Isaac, does his share to derail them as well. There are several surprising secrets in this one, and as they are revealed, not everyone is happy with the outcomes. But there are some very touching moments, especially when Rebekah has to go to the doctor for a checkup and Eric pours his heart out to her. The roles these two play, in and out of the bedroom, are such fun to see, and each one is an adventure, as is the screaming hot sex these two manage to have in the most unusual places. There were some tears shed as I read, and many smiles and giggles too.

To get the true feel for this tour with Sinners, to see how it all rolled out, I recommend the following reading order for the series: Backstage Pass, Rock Hard, Hot Ticket, Wicked Beat, and finally Double Time.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »