Search Results for: the perfect distance

The Vanishing by Rebekah Lewis

December 8, 2014 By Leave a Comment

VANISHING
The Vanishing by Rebekah Lewis
Publisher: Breathless Press
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Contemporary, Historical
Length: Short Story (33 pages)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

What happens when the hero who saved Wonderland from the destruction of the famed Jabberwock needs to find a worthy paramour before the Red Queen picks one for him? Devrel, the last of the Cheshire cats, has the perfect solution. He’ll just pluck one from the human world and gift her to him for his un-birthday.

levitra online india Most of the physicians in the UK suggest this effective ED solution to the ED sufferers. Everyday we read or hear about order generic cialis view here now it’s the other guy’s fault that our economy is a mess, lose money in the stock market, a business fails, or get a divorce. Some minor side effects however, such as blurred vision, slight headaches, flushing and indigestion are also common side effects for this steroid like pain at the injection area, nausea, and change in liver function tests and increased or decreased of sexual desire. molineanimalaid.org online viagra in australia It may affect the tadalafil cheapest online groin, the genitals and the area behind the scrotum. Realizing her friends were playing a joke on her, Cadence is heading home when she sees the cat smiling at her. Next thing she knows, she’s in Wonderland and in the arms of a handsome man who thinks she’s slightly unhinged upon meeting her. Intrigued by Gareth, Cadence makes an offer to act as his companion in exchange for his protection as they journey from the Tulgy Wood to the Red Kingdom—a simple solution which endangers both of their hearts as the castle looms in the distance.

The problem with wandering through the woods alone is that there won’t be anyone else around to help you should something unexpected happen. It’s even more dangerous when the trouble is otherworldly in nature.

The opening scene gripped my attention immediately. I felt nearly as disoriented as Cadence did before I figured out what was going on. This was my first introduction to Ms. Lewis’ playful writing style. Based on how much I enjoyed it, I will be keeping an eye out for what she comes up with next. She appears to be quite comfortable using her vivid imagination for the science fiction and fantasy genres.

What didn’t make sense to me was the romance. The characters involved in it were fascinating as individuals, but they had many more reasons to distrust one another than they did to feel any sort of mutual attraction. I would have preferred to see them solve their problems without this subplot. It might have worked well in a sequel, but it wasn’t necessary for this story.

This world is filled with mysterious creatures. Many of them have already been described in the original version. It was amusing to see them again, especially the ones that I’d nearly forgotten reading about. While readers don’t need to have any previous knowledge of this universe, those of us who do remember the lesser-known parts of it will get a few extra chuckles out of this tale.

The Vanishing is a good choice for anyone who has ever wished they could really visit Wonderland.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Embrace the Night by Caris Roane

October 22, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Bella Media Management
Embrace the Night by Caris Roane
The Blood Rose Series: Five
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (122 pgs)
Heat Level: Hot
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

He ignored his deepest needs for a hundred years…

Place an order for the viagra overnight delivery that helps the person to overcome the impotence pretty easily. Always cialis generic overnight purchase from online stores that ask for a prescription and subsequently they fail to purchase this love enhancing drug. Systemic Inflammation In COPD Increases Cardiovascular Injury Cigarette smoke increases the risk of viagra tablet price cardiovascular disease. For example Kamagra tablets are available in viagra pill for sale the market. Mastyr Vampire Jude has kept his distance from all women because he lost his wife and daughter to an enemy attack a hundred years ago. He won’t go through that kind of loss again. And he won’t jeopardize another woman’s life while the deadly Invictus wraith-pairs still pose a threat in the Nine Realms. But when Hannah saves his life by creating unexpected fire from the palms of her hands, he knows that something ‘very realm’ is going on with her and he can no longer ignore his long-suppressed desire for the beautiful owner of the Gold Rush bar. When his cravings for her blood and her body drive him to take her to bed and tap into her vein, his world shifts forever. But can Hannah make the adjustment to a life lived on the frontlines of an ongoing war? And if anything should happen to her, how could he ever live with himself?

There is something compelling about this series that keeps me coming back for more. Ms. Roane has created a world that mixes a drop of contemporary with a whole lot of ‘other’ and comes up with a new and fascinating twist for the vampire romance genre. So far, I’ve read every short and novelette that she’s written regarding the nine realms and none have let me down.

First, Embrace the Night is a standalone. There are some references to characters that I’ve met in the past but they show up like listening to a one-sided telephone conversation; they provide clues and information but don’t interfere with the main focus of the story: the romance between Mastyr Jude and Hannah.

The talent that Ms. Roane wields is formidable. Every story, no matter the length, always makes me feel like I got a full story, complete with emotional and sentimental undercurrents, action, drama, some humor, amazement and even some very sexy loving – emphasis on sexy. This tale is no different. The hero has experienced loss in the past that hurt him so bad, he’s adamant that he’ll never succumb to love again. The heroine is a woman who prides herself on her independence and is doing fine but finds herself wanting something that she should not, Jude. When they get together, passion simmers and pops until they succumb and something is unleashed that catches them both by surprise. What happens then is a journey. Jude and Hannah have to balance their newfound knowledge with finding acceptance in their new roles. What complicates the matter is the villain.

The villain and her horde are not explored too thoroughly here. That was done in Embrace the Mystery when the ‘who’ was finally revealed. In this story, enough is shared with a new reader to understand the danger without making a reader feel lost. The powerful fae sends a new kind of threat to attack Jude’s realm and the menace becomes personal when she targets Hannah. Jude has to make a choice, embrace his potential relationship with Hannah or lose her forever. Hannah has to decide how much her independence is really worth and what is she willing to lose to keep it. Both internal conflicts play nicely off of each other and provide a wonderful backdrop for an adventurous, romantic novelette.

The secondary characters that come to play are always interesting, helpful and give flavor to the storytelling. The one component that I believe the author relies heavily upon is Davido and his wife. They are nice people and interesting but they are a powerful couple who the author has used as a tool to get her main protagonists from point A to B. I believe that they are the glue or the facilitators that allow such short stories to flow in the cohesive manner I’ve come to expect. Not that it’s a bad thing, far from it, because it works. However, sometimes it comes across as too perfect or too helpful and I had a sense of that in this story. Then again, it’s also a way to keep the angst level low and the reading enjoyment high and smooth flowing. It’s a tricky balance.

Embrace the Night is a must read for vampire romance fans that are looking for something new, vibrant and fascinating. The concept of the Blood Rose is intriguing and the world Ms. Roane has created is full of nuances, fantasy folklore characters, vampires and lots of dire and interesting predicaments. Hannah and Jude made for a wonderful couple and their romance was delightful. If a reader hasn’t had the experience of reading this series before, this is a fun one to start off with. If anything, it might even intrigue a reader enough to read the previous books in the series. And that would be a great thing because a couple are even better than this one. Which is me saying – go forth and read. The Blood Rose series is pure entertainment and Embrace the Night is a great addition to the tales of the nine realms. I’m glad I read it.

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

LASR Anniversary: Anne Kane – Guest Blog and Giveaway

August 27, 2014 By 1 Comment

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Leave a comment on THIS POST for a chance to win an additional prize – an ebook copy of Her Cyborg Lover

Summer in the Okanagan

I live in the Okanagan Valley, and summer up here is spectacular. The days are long and warm and the rivers are sparkling clear and just daring you not to come on in for a swim. We have numerous beaches – all of them free and three of them within walking distance of my house.

Anne Kane kayaking with Sassi (2)I live a block from the Shuswap River and love to drag the kayak down there in the early morning to go for a paddle. The dog comes with me – she loves to kayak as well. Sometimes, especially if it’s really hot out, she’ll walk to the very front tip of the kayak and jump in for a swim. She jumps from there because she knows I can’t reach her to stop her. She’s a smart little brat! When she’s had enough, she dog paddles over to the side of the cockpit and lets me pull her back into the kayak. Dripping wet. Into my lap. I don’t think I’ve ever managed to go for a paddle without getting at least slightly soggy.

One of my favorite places to paddle is a secluded little lake that is only accessible by kayak or canoe. You go through a marshy swamp, then paddle under a very old railway bridge. The bridge is low, narrow and the water under it is only a foot or so deep at the best of times. In late August, even the kayak is scraping bottom. Motor boats can’t manage it no matter what the water level. On the other side of the bridge is more marsh. You paddle through it for just a few minutes, and then the waterway opens up into a pristine lake that is just brimming with wildlife. I’ve seen deer, moose, otters, beaver and more types of birds than I can count. There’s bald eagles, at least three types of hawks, blue herons standing on their stilt-like legs and ducks. Lots of ducks. And geese. And even a few trumpeter swans, although they tend to prefer the river. I actually bought a waterproof camera (not cheap!) just so I could photograph all the amazing wildlife.

When I’m too lazy, (or it’s too hot to move) I hide in the gazebo my son built for me in my back yard. A nice cold drink, my laptop, the pets at my feet, and I’m a happy author. I can write to my heart’s content. Summer in the Okanagan is truly an amazing time of year!

anne kane hercyborglover_msr (2)“Natalie’s loved and lost and she’s not so sure she wants to risk her heart again. She’s willing to settle for a challenging career as a space-pilot instructor and a succession of no-strings attached lovers. But that’s before her boss saddles her with the last thing she wants—a new partner.

Jebediah recognizes his perfect match in Natalie from the moment she seduces him on a dare. Everything that makes her a top-notch pilot, from her fearlessness to her passion, make a night in her bed both challenging and unforgettable. Too bad she cuts Jebediah off the moment they’re assigned to a mission in the outer limits of Alliance space.

A dangerous confrontation with a brutal enemy, an exploding drive engine and a traitor close to home throw everything into perspective. Natalie is going to have to put the past behind her and risk it all, because when your partner is also your lover, failure is not an option.

A Romantica® science fiction erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave

About the Author:Anne Kane lives in the beautiful Okanagan Valley with a bouncy Jack Russell terrier, a cantankerous Himalayan cat, a bossy little calico and too many fish to count. She spent many years trying to fit in and act normal, but finally gave up the effort. She started writing romance, and her fate was sealed when she won a publishing contract with Red Sage Publishing and just a month later Changeling Press accepted her first submission. Since then she had published more than thirty stories in a variety of sub-genres, all with a happily ever after.

Her hobbies, when she’s not playing with the characters in her head, include kayaking, hiking, motorcycles, swimming, skating, karate, playing guitar, singing and of course, reading.

Website ~ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

Buy the book at Ellora’s Cave

a Rafflecopter giveawayYou cialis without can choose the packets you want, and end up accessing a huge discount margin.Discreet orderingWhen making the order, you have all privacy. Manufacturing and selling duplicate pills is an offence however it is also true brand cialis 20mg that some people make mistakes in their teenage which leads to sexual problems after marriage. So, the need of the hour is to take cialis discount cheap back the life on the right track very soon. The only different between any of this erectile brokenness with cialis 25mg may have the individuals extra asked to agree to their particular pharmaceutical drugs without the pressure with troublesome their particular issue with erectile brokenness.

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Dream Huntress by Michelle Sharp

August 13, 2014 By Leave a Comment

DREAM
Dream Huntress by Michelle Sharp
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (335 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Hawthorn

Detective Jordan Delany has a gift. Through her dreams, she connects with dead victims of violent crimes. Her isolated life as a drug cop is perfect for hiding the freakish visions, until her newest investigation has her posing as a cocktail waitress in a down-and-dirty strip club. When she’s saved from a drunken customer by a handsome stranger, the heated chemistry is exactly why she intends to keep Mr. Arrogant at bay. But learning he’s the new bouncer for the corrupt club she intends to bust just might be the one reason why she can’t.

By the time you are old, your hair thought about that order viagra is beyond the help of modern medicine. Cheap Kamagra pills UK with all effective features promise to deliver a high quality treatment at the affordable cialis discount generic prices. Growing buy viagra in india age also causes weakness in bones and other organs. In that sildenafil 50mg price case, the person is said to go for the second pill. Tyler McGee suspects a drug ring operating out of the local club is flooding the streets of his hometown with heroin. Determined to get answers, he plays the part of a fallen cop and lands the job of head bouncer. What he discovers is that the club owner isn’t the only deadly obstacle he’s facing. His attraction to an intriguing cocktail waitress with a penchant for danger just might kill him first.

Dream Huntress is a suspenseful read that you won’t want to put down.  The biggest reason for that are the very convincing main characters and the chemistry between them. Jordan is written as a feisty, ingenious and independent woman whose dangerous job keeps her busy enough to distract her from her demons. I liked how she feared no one and gave back as good as she got.

Similarly, Tyler is a man who is sure of himself and his male charms but in a fun, down-to-earth way that doesn’t make him seem arrogant. The quick-paced romance between Jordan and Ty made for an enticing, fast read. Jordan’s struggling with her emotions and the need to keep Ty at a distance was completely believable, although perhaps mentioned a few times too many. Bahan, Jordan’s boss, was another intriguing character, well-portrayed and interesting.

The romance part of the novel was far more interesting than the plot with the police chasing the drug dealers. That was too simple since practically nothing happened in that regard until the very end. When Jordan had a vision of the final conflict, she was convinced the other cop in the diner was corrupt even though there was no proof – he might have pointed his gun at Ty because he didn’t know Ty was an undercover cop and he was waving his gun around in a diner. Also, Ty and Jordan kissed way too many times at the Buck’s bar parking lot and it seemed highly unlikely that no one noticed them.

Despite the fairly simple undercover investigation plotline, the novel is compelling because of the relationship between Ty and Jordan. Their relationship repeatedly made them deliriously happy on one page and brokenhearted on the next, and it was complex enough to enthrall me.

The undercover stint is a great background to the hot romance between two cops who can’t fight the attraction between them despite the dangers a relationship entails.

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

A Torrid Tango by Jude Johnson

August 12, 2014 By Leave a Comment

A Torrid Tango
A Torrid Tango by Jude Johnson
Save the Last Dance 3
Publisher: Champagne Books
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (60 pgs)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Poinsettia

For two lovers, simply getting to a ballroom competition mimics a Spartan obstacle course.
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Maggie Pearce and John Harrison are finally free to become a couple–except for the ocean between their homes and the careers that seem to conspire to keep them apart. Maggie’s first ballroom competition in Las Vegas seems the perfect place to rendezvous, but an arrogant dance instructor and a lascivious producer create obstacles at every turn.

Maggie and John just want some time alone.

I definitely feel sorry for Maggie and John. They are trying hard to make their long distance relationship work, but nothing ever seems to go according to plan for the couple. I won’t spill the details, but they can’t even have something as simple as a phone conversation without some sort of mishap. Many of the obstacles Maggie and John overcome on their way to their happy ending are certainly entertaining and had me laughing often.

Maggie and John are likable characters, but I must admit it was a little hard for me to gauge the chemistry between them because they don’t actually spend much time together in this short romance. Most of the plot is about them trying to reach each other. After I read this story, I learned that there are two other previous short stories that feature these characters. I believe reading those stories will help readers better understand Maggie and John and their situation.

There is never a dull moment in Maggie and John’s world. All of the plot complications surrounding Maggie and John’s quest to be together are resolved in quick, yet satisfying ways. I was a little surprised at how things turned out at the ballroom competition. To say it was chaotic is a massive understatement. However, Maggie and Johns reunion is very passionate and certainly well deserved.

I enjoyed reading A Torrid Tango. It is a fun, fast paced story that can easily be enjoyed in one sitting. Readers who enjoy over-the-top plot complications and romantic endings should certainly give A Torrid Tango a try.

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

Secrets of a Heart by Samantha Garman – Q&A and Giveaway

August 12, 2014 By 9 Comments

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This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Enter to win a $50 Amazon or Barnes and Noble gift card via the Rafflecopter at the end of the post. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Welcome to Long and Short Reviews, Samantha. Tell us about your latest release.

Charleston Heat, a contemporary romance. It was a big change from writing historical romance. It’s about an independent young woman who meets a famous drummer.

What have you got coming soon for us to look out for?

Dandelion Dreams, which I guess could be classified as Contemporary Fiction.

What song would you choose for Karaoke?

Eye of the Tiger.

Which Star Trek or Star Wars character are you most like?

I’m an Ewok. I make a lot of weird noises and sounds.

Who would you most like to be stranding on a desert island with? Least? Why?

I’d choose to be stranded with my husband. He’s a lot of fun and into survival stuff. I’m pretty sure he’d keep me alive. Least would have to be Kim Kardashian or Rhianna. It’s a tie, I guess.

MEDIA KIT Book coverLondon, 1815. At the age of nineteen, Blaine Whitmore loses everything dear to him in a brutal assault on his family line. Left with nothing, he finds himself aboard a merchant ship sailing far from home. Years pass as a boy becomes a man, and yet no amount of time or distance will help Blaine forget all that he has lost. After ten years sailing the high seas, he is finally ready to restore the Whitmore name.

Felicity Canton is as lovely as she is penniless, and has been left to care for her three sisters while attempting to maintain a crumbling estate. With no hope for escape from her predicament, she is resigned to a peasant’s fate. She never anticipates attracting the attention of her wealthy and mysterious new neighbor, nor does she expect him to be her savior.

As Blaine searches for truth and doles out vengeance, he becomes increasingly captivated and distracted by Felicity’s beauty and inner strength. Does he dare confide in her the secrets of his heart? Will his future be as bleak as his past, or will he finally have a chance at happiness?

Enjoy an excerpt:

She took a healthy swallow of brandy, unaware of Gray’s steadfast gaze on her. “The sale of the manor will only cover the remaining debts. There will be nothing left to buy even a small cottage so that I can care for my sisters. I can provide them nothing.”

“Your father’s debts are not your fault, Felicity. The choices he made were his, and his alone.”

“Still, it is my burden to carry. Who will provide for Abby, Grace and Phoebe if I do not?” She set her glass down on the desk and took a deep breath. “We have no relatives, but I think I have found a way out of our predicament.” Gray raised his eyebrows, but said nothing. “Would you like to know what my plan is?”

He nodded. “Please, enlighten me.”

She took a deep breath and then stated, “I want to come work for you.”

“You want to what?” he asked in confusion.

“It is a perfectly reasonable request.”

“Reasonable? You are a gently-bred young lady, ill suited to menial labor.”

She sighed, crestfallen. “A paid position in a wealthy home is the best I can hope for. I can run a household. I will gladly be your housekeeper.” Gray was momentarily shocked into silence. “I have no hope for marriage. Winterbourne was my only opportunity. I have no dowry, and I come with three sisters equally destitute.”

“You could marry me,” Gray suggested slowly as if he was just coming to the conclusion himself.

About the Author: MEDIA KIT Author PhotoSamantha Garman currently lives and writes in Brooklyn, NY. She loves Scotch, a great conversation with anyone willing to speak their mind and flannel pajamas. While yearning for a backyard and a dog, she’s decided to stay busy working on her next book, Dandelion Dreams.

Twitter: @samgarman

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

Exercising Her Options by Daisy Dexter Dobbs

July 10, 2014 By Leave a Comment

OPTIONS
Exercising Her Options by Daisy Dexter Dobbs
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (266 pgs)
Heat: Hot
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Adopting an exercise program holds the number one spot on Polly Patrick’s “Things of Zero Interest” list, but with her bestselling author fiancé captivated by the charms of sexy, young fan girls, Polly makes the ultimate sacrifice. Joining a gym and committing herself to torturous workouts is hard enough…but being assigned a sexy, smoldering Greek for a personal trainer is downright brutal.

When Nikolas Kokoris takes Polly on as a client, he’s unaware his job is to get her fit for another man…a jerk who doesn’t deserve her affections. After scrutinizing the sassy, full-figured beauty’s curves for three months of workouts, he’s in trouble. Maintaining his professionalism and keeping his distance has never been tougher.

Struggling to remain focused on the task at hand, Polly and Nick find their lives complicated by a friendly kiss, the potent effects of ouzo, and a cringe-worthy case of mistaken identity.

This limited the competition that could enter the viagra generico cipla market. In truth, hereditary is a hard cause of the actual unexpected onset of erectile dysfunction and also one of the reasons which cause erectile dysfunction cheapest cialis india in men. It may be the time that guys will discover techniques to get rid from the problem. pharma-bi.com super cialis professional GERSHOWITZ said the price of our remote control toys was higher than other toys manufacturer with about 15 or viagra generika 50mg 20 U.S. dollars. It’s amazing how clearly we can see someone else’s faults, problems and situations but when we hold up the mirror to ourselves, no matter if we are in the exact same situation, we are blind against seeing it in us. That is the basic plot theme in Ms. Dobbs’ latest sexy adventure in the start of her Greek Delights series.

Helen and Polly are the best of friends. Ms. Dobbs sets up the first conflict in such a way that a reader knows what is coming. Polly can and does help Helen see the light but when it comes to her own heartbreak, she employs the very denial techniques she wouldn’t let her friend Helen get away with. The only good thing that came from that debacle was Polly’s joining a gym. What happens next is inevitable but fun.

Reading Polly’s internal dialogues when it came to Victor was like reading the do’s and don’ts of dating a loser. It was text book and why Polly couldn’t see that drove me nuts. The heroine has a great sense of fun and adventure, has a wonderful talent and has so many things going for her but she’s not realized her full potential. Why is that? The wrong man, that’s why. Just how wrong he turns out to be gets discovered in a most unlikely way and the act of revenge was especially diabolical and perfect. Polly is a very crafty lady. She also has a very sexy and passionate side to her that keeps getting stymied by something called a Merry Widow. I don’t think I want one. Although, what happens to the hapless heroine is both funny and almost scary. Thank goodness she had a hunky Greek hero to save her.

Even though the plot conflict was rather predictable and at times annoying, because I knew that deep down she KNEW but was in denial which is the stupidest thing to be in since she wouldn’t let her friend do it so why was she any different is beyond me, there were a ton of fun, sexy and outright hilarious moments sprinkled throughout the book.

The best parts are when Nick and Polly are together. And I’m not just talking about the hot sex and fun sexcapades, which were highly pleasing. I enjoyed their dialogue, the scene with the ouzo, the massage table and the fact that Nick loved Polly exactly as she was for who she was. He was everything that Victor was not and whenever the heroine compared the two, Victor seemed to come up short. Which made me laugh. Many times. Nick is a real treasure and a keeper.

Another aspect that I enjoyed in this story was a scene with the older ladies. That was beautifully written and it touched my heart. I’m glad that Ms. Dobbs included them because it showcased that both Polly and Nick aren’t just good looking on the outside, but they are beautiful on the inside too. And that’s where it counts.

If a reader is looking for pure entertainment, then Exercising Her Options delivers a fun, fast paced and charming romance. The story includes many moments that brought smiles to my face and it was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. There is however one part for which I was very glad I had not had any food or drink in my mouth. I would have choked. There is an absolutely funny scene that came out of nowhere and surprised me so effectively, I couldn’t stop laughing and giggling for a few minutes. I re-read the scene and laughed some more. That part embraces exactly what this story embodies – a reason to smile and love life and the ability to laugh at yourself. Reading Exercising Her Options left me in a happy mood and that’s the best recommendation I can give to others for reading it. Get your happy on and read this book.

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

The Secret Hum of a Daisy by Tracy Holczer

May 21, 2014 By Leave a Comment

HUM
The Secret Hum of a Daisy by Tracy Holczer
Publisher: Putnam
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery, Young Adult
Length: Full Length (312 pgs)
Age Recommendation: 10+
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Thistledown

Twelve-year-old Grace and her mother have always been their own family, traveling from place to place like gypsies. But Grace wants to finally have a home all their own. Just when she thinks she’s found it her mother says it’s time to move again. Grace summons the courage to tell her mother how she really feels and will always regret that her last words to her were angry ones.

After her mother’s sudden death, Grace is forced to live with a grandmother she’s never met. She can’t imagine her mother would want her to stay with this stranger. Then Grace finds clues in a mysterious treasure hunt, just like the ones her mother used to send her on. Maybe it is her mother, showing her the way to her true home.

Lyrical, poignant and fresh, The Secret Hum of a Daisy is a beautifully told middle grade tale with a great deal of heart.

What if you lost the only home you ever had? How far would you go to find it again?
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Grace and her mother are each other’s family. Going place to place, they never call one place home for long. A terrible accident happens and Grace loses her mother to a fall in the river. For the first time, Grace has to navigate a life that is very different from the one her mother had carved out for them. Her writing, once so precious to her is bottled up inside, just like her feelings. Grace’s grandmother claims her and she struggles to adjust to “The After.”

How can she live without her mother? How can she find her place in a world where she doesn’t belong? She wants to return to her friend and live with her-a place her mother would have approved of. Only the plans we make are not always the ones laid out for us. Grace begins to find this out as she follows clues that lead her to find her new life. There is new friendship, family issues, loss, exploration and just a little bit of romance to be found.

This book was a journey into the mind of a child who has lost everything. Grace’s mother was her world. The small origami paper cranes she folded and the little birds her mother made out of spoons become stars to travel by in this uncharted voyage to find the center of grief and move beyond it. Grace wants no part of her grandmother-the woman who turned her back on her very pregnant mother. She can’t stand the sounds of the river so she stays in the shed, keeping her distance from everyone and everything.

The thaw is slow. Once it comes it unfolds like the petals of a flower in the garden Grace’s grandmother so lovingly tends. We are all a part of each other’s lives. The decisions we make do affect other people and sometimes you make mistakes that you want more than anything to take back. And sometimes you just have to accept the strange things about people are the parts that make them who they are and love them just the same.

This book had me in tears more times than I could count. It is a middle grade read that really reaches into the feelings of devastation you can have when your whole world gets turned upside down. Where is home? Is it a person or a place? The Secret Hum of a Daisy also made me think about imagery of origami birds and the wonderful story of Sadaku and the paper cranes. It also hit on poetry, specifically Robert Frost. Lyrical in the structure of the story and the inclusion of art and poetry, I really felt the exploration and tender unfurling of Grace’s spirit as her new world is revealed to her step by tentative step.

I cannot recommend this tale highly enough. It is a book that could help so many kids deal with grief-and adults too. It made me think of my father and his passing and just how hard it was. I looked for signs from him forever just so I knew he was still up there watching. And you know what? They are everywhere. The ebb and flow of our life is poetry in motion. It is art and substance made real by every breath we take. And sometimes, if you listen there really is a secret hum in the background telling you the way…

You have to read this book.

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

The Earl’s Christmas Colt by Rebecca Thomas

May 2, 2014 By 1 Comment

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The Earl’s Christmas Colt by Rebecca Thomas
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Genre: Historical, Holiday
Length: Short Story (60 pgs)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Poinsettia

Lady Arabella Sutton is stunned to learn her brother has betrothed her to a stranger despite his promises for a season in London. Although she is the first to admit no man would suit, since she’s more interested in horses than marriage, the last thing she wants is to become a brood mare to a stuffy old earl. Facing a future she cannot abide, she takes an impetuous ride to clear her head and ends up tending her injured mare instead.

There are various answers as to how to have intercourse with penile failure condition is also treated by appalachianmagazine.com purchase viagra from canada or Revatio which helps in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Some of the common symptoms of stuffy nose or cialis no prescription cheap http://appalachianmagazine.com/category/faith/page/4/?filter_by=random_posts headaches. A recent study proves how any type of abuse at a young age can make children susceptible to future mental cialis 100mg tablets problems. viagra vs generic It heals the damaged tissues and nerves. Oliver Westwyck, the Earl of Marsdale, can’t believe his luck when he stops at an inn the night before he’s to meet his fiancée. In the stable, while tending the colt he intends to give to his future wife, he happens upon her—rain-drenched but beautiful. She assumes he’s a stable hand, a fine joke he means to end…until Lady Arabella declares all noblemen are egotistical, conceited, and arrogant. How can he reveal his true identity before he’s managed to change her mind and win her heart?

The marriage was supposed to be a business arrangement.

Oliver has no illusions concerning his upcoming marriage to Arabella. It is a simple arranged marriage. Oliver needs an heir, and Arabella’s brother has his own reasons for needing Arabella to marry well.

Oliver won me over immediately. Even though Oliver has never met Arabella, I like that he makes an effort to find out about her before meeting her. He is not expecting his future wife to love him, but he is determined to show her kindness and respect. When he discovers Arabella’s love of horses, he selects the perfect Christmas present for her. However, their first meeting doesn’t go quite as he planned. After stumbling upon each other in a stable, Arabella believes he is a commoner and Oliver suddenly sees an opportunity to get really get to know Arabella without all the pressure of their impending marriage. Though he is technically lying to Arabella, I really couldn’t blame him for wanting her to know him rather than his title.

I completely understand Arabella’s reluctance to marry a stranger, especially since she had her upcoming marriage sprung on her mere days before the event is to take place. Anyone in her position would need some time and space to clear their head. As Arabella’s flight from the house illustrates, she does tend to be a bit impulsive. After Arabella calmed down, I found her to be an intelligent and caring woman. The tender way she cares for her horse speaks volumes about her personality. Arabella does come off as a bit arrogant at times, but I think this is mainly a defense mechanism. Oliver’s behavior confuses her and her arrogance is an effort to put some distance between them as well as a way to dampen the small flames of desire she’s beginning to feel for him.

I truly enjoyed reading The Earl’s Christmas Colt. Arabella and Oliver are nicely rounded characters and the unusual circumstances surrounding their initial meeting are very entertaining. Looking for a short, sweet, historical romance? Pick up a copy of The Earl’s Christmas Colt today.

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

The Gypsy Ribbon by Shannon MacLeod

March 10, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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The Gypsy Ribbon by Shannon MacLeod
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Genre: Contemporary, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (356 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Daisy

Internationally known wild child James Kelly is a filthy rich rock star, devilishly handsome, with silicone beauties aplenty to grace both his arm and his bed. He has it all. Or does he? What he wants most is a real woman to tell him no once in a while…and thanks to his inherited precognition, he knows her when he meets her. But the vision of his future is shrouded in darkness and shadows.

Tarot reader Lisbeth Vargo works at the local renaissance faire. She’s still stinging from her last bad relationship when her best friend marries James Kelley’s brother. After being paired up in the wedding party, sparks fly between Lisbeth and James. Even her tarot cards tell her he’s the one, but is the interest of a “bad boy” something she can take seriously?

Sometimes falling in love takes a leap of faith. Occasionally it needs a push off the cliff. James is more than happy to give Lisbeth that needed shove, but will his love save her…or get her killed?

IVF treatment or a test tube baby generic levitra mastercard is simple, safe and dependable. The Doctors of Chiropractic can apply massage therapy cialis tadalafil 5mg to improve blood-flow to the affected area and decrease muscle spasms. Men who suffer cialis 10 mg http://raindogscine.com/project/tanto-tiempo/ from impotency or erectile dysfunction tends to be limited to problems with getting or maintaining a penile erection long enough for having perfect lovemaking session. This medicine viagra discount sales is very inexpensive and won’t be effective if you are suffering from impotency or erectile dysfunction. Admit it, most of us think the Irish accent is sexy as a well done salsa dance; that’s why I picked this book up. This beautiful premise is only added to by James/Seamus being a rock star to boot. But I kept reading because the writing is well edited and well written. Not to mention, the plot doesn’t do the irritating, “Do I like him, no, I don’t, but I do, but I just can’t bring myself to see him” dance. That stuff got old twenty books ago. For once, the main characters definitely love each other and even say so well before halfway through the book. Here, the conflict is one external to the relationship.

James is a rock star and all high grossing rock stars have a manager. James’ manager isn’t the nice kind. He provides the book’s tension by the distance he enforces between the two love-birds via touring time. I felt a lot of the band details on stage and back were well researched and appeared to be realistic. The only major issue I had was the petulance and childishness of the manager on occasion. He seemed a touch too childlike in his arguments and resistance to change. I felt the plot could have just as easily gone forward with him being more realistically businesslike and strong in his refusal to help the band through those traits rather than sheer contrariness. I think this would have worked better towards the conclusion where he is appraised as a generally good, if greedy, guy.

Now on to the good bits: James’ and Beth’s sex life. For the romantic, the draw could be that Beth starts out as a virgin and, presumably, her first and last will be James. He, of course, has had more experience, as a rock star would. However, I would also say this novel is one for the romance enthusiast because the sex is more making love than just sex. There are long embraces, loving foreplay, and there is a build up to the stage of having sex, for obvious reasons. Beth is not a woman to fall straight into and out of bed with a man, and just as well.

I felt the best part of their relationship was James’ commitment to Beth. He sends her trinkets and letters in an updated take on love letters and really ingratiates himself to the reader, and Beth. He does what many men may not be bothered to do in a long distance relationship and takes “putting in the effort” to another level.

There is also a soft magical element to this book that readers should be aware of. Tarot cards have a strong predictive influence over events and James’ family all have different psychic gifts that they were born with. I find this fantasy element syncs well with the plot and offers nice (and not too obvious) hints and foresight to the reader.

The conclusion to The Gypsy Ribbon is a shock to begin with but smoothes out to a happy ending, so don’t be too disheartened. What I take from this book is love and an enduring memory of that happy, tingly, overflow of emotion that surrounds the perfect honeymoon period of relationships and spreads smiles across a room. With Shannon MacLeod writing books at this standard, I’m going to go have a look and see if James’ Irish brothers have been written about, too!

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