Author Spotlight and Interview with Celeste Easton and Review of Deal with a Demon

Author Spotlight & Interview

Ok guys so Celeste is not only a totally awesome author she is a tattoo artist as well. How freaking cool is that?!  I became a total fan once I read Deal with a Demon and then I found out that she's a tattoo artist too and I was like AWESOME. Two of my most favorite things in the world, ok other than lasagna lol, is books and tattoos. If I could, I'd have many more of each. 

Meet the Author

Novelist Celeste Easton was born in Ohio, where her first words were "Read me." (<--true story!) When she isn't penning dark, demonic, and delicious paranormal romances, she's busy collecting shoes and Victorian funerary photographs. She has an amazing, funny, and supportive husband, along with a herd of furry children. She's obsessed with cake and Sugar-Free Redbull. And! She's also a tattoo artist.

Find her on facebook at: www.facebook.com/AuthorCelesteEaston

Or follow her tweets about demon wrangling and other shenanigans at: www.twitter.com/CelesteEaston

Author & Character Interview

Hi Celeste! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time for this interview.

            Thank YOU for having me!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I've basically been writing and drawing since I could hold a crayon. In addition to authoring, I’m also a tattoo artist. I swear a lot. I’m obsessed with shoes. I’m also kind of obsessed with firearms. And I have a crippling caffeine addiction which I soothe with copious amounts of coffee and sugar-free Redbull. I live in central Ohio with my husband and a whole herd of furry children.

What do you like to read, do you prefer a specific genre, or everything?

I read EVERYTHING. For romance I prefer Paranormal or Historical or Urban Fantasy. But Horror was, and still is, my first love.

3. Do you write only Paranormal? Are there any other genres you write or are interested in writing?

Mostly Paranormal Romance, but I also love writing horror. I've always wanted to finish writing the Pirate Historical Romance I started when I was fourteen and I swear someday I will!

4. So, what has, or rather inspires you to write about demons, is it a fascination with the underworld?

I've always been fascinated with sympathetic monsters. I think it comes from a need to understand the misunderstood, or a need to know the ‘why’ that lies beneath the monsters’ actions. And demons are monsters, aren't they? Plus I love the idea that demons—the proverbial and primal enemy of humanity—could have hearts just like the rest of us. And talk about ultimate bad boys!

5. The underworld you created is pretty cool; though I would definitely prefer to be on the First lol, how exactly did you create it, and did any specific area inspire you?

The early inspiration for my Hell came from illustrations in Dante’s Inferno. The Nine Circles of Hell. I also wanted to play with the concept of the underworld mimicking our world. But I’m with you—First Level of Hell all the way. Wonder if the Demon King has a spare bedroom for me…

6. To me, Deal with a Demon seems to have a personal or more relatable background story, was it difficult to write about Drew, his relationship with Nic, and the finale?

Nic and Drew’s relationship was very difficult to write about. And the finale? In edits, every time I came to that scene, I wanted to change it, wanted to make it go away. But I think it all worked out for the best, don’t you?

7. We are initially introduced to Asmo, Arden & Chase, and then a few more brothers in the end; can we get a little hint about who the next installment is about? *crosses fingers and chants* please say Chase, please say Chase. J

Ha! Chase is very popular. Might have something to do with the linebacker build and the long blond hair, huh? Guess you’ll have to wait and see if he gets his shot at the spotlight. *evil laughter*

8. Your hero is not typical that I've seen, at least so far, usually a Demon Hero denounces his Demon half trying to be more human. But Arden is the opposite and thrives on fear. Was it fun to write him this way?

Oh, Arden was FUN. And I always like coming at characters from an angle that’s opposite of typical. But I will admit that most of the time, he’s a six-foot pain in the a$$.

9. Will this series include all of the brothers?

*more evil laughter* I’m not tellllling.

10. Will Sorro be redeemed and get his own book? 

Sorro has a REALLY rough road ahead if he wants to redeem himself. And I’m not sure that the Asmodai will let him live long enough to change his ways. But all monsters—at least the ones I like to write about—have hearts, so never say never.

Character Interview with Arden

1. Can you tell us what it’s like living on the First Level?

His face doesn't change in the slightest when the tattoo artist drags the needle across his thigh, working through the new addition to his extensive collection. “What’s there to tell? We’re royalty. It has its benefits. I find it more enjoyable now than I used to.” He glances over at the petite woman parked in a chair in the corner of the room. Some silent communication passes between them. The woman’s eyes glint like polished granite when she smiles.

2. What was it like for you and your brothers, constant chaos?

He laughs without moving. “Lots of ruined priceless antiques, bloody noses, and broken bones.”

3. When did you start getting tattoos, and why did you choose Angels?

“I got the first angel when I was sixteen.” A shadow crosses his face and clouds form in his gem-like eyes. “The ‘why’ is really none of your business.” He shakes his head, scattering his shaggy black hair over his forehead. “I’m into something different now.”

4. Will you be getting anymore pieces done, and what will they be?

“I’ll get tattooed until I run out of skin.”

“Not your face,” the woman in the corner says. She’s not smiling any more.

He rolls his eyes at her, but she doesn't back down. “Fine. Not my face.”

5. Here’s a more personal question, why do you despise your human half? I know you've mentioned weakness, but is it really because you don’t want to be reminded or hurt by the memory of your mother?  

All sound and movement in the room stops. Even the tattoo artist who was in the process of wiping down her finished product freezes, gloved hand hovering over his thigh. The woman in the corner is at the edge of her chair.

And Arden? He gives me a crooked smile, but the flash of his white teeth isn't joyful. At all. Looks more like the grin of a hungry jaguar. “Your interview is over. Goodbye.”

*Sighs* Well guys, I tried. Looks like we'll have to wait and see which sexy demon is next. 

And I am soooooooo looking forward to it. ;)  

Review for Deal with a Demon 

Title: Deal with a Demon
Author: Celeste Easton
Source: Review Request
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 334 pages Paperback
Reviewed by: Emi 

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

After her parents’ brutal murder, Nic Wright shut herself off from the world, barricading her heart against everyone but her brother, Drew. So when he goes missing, dragged into Hell by soul-thirsty demons, Nic doesn't think twice about going in after him. Because Drew may be a junkie, but he’s all she’s got. And she’ll be damned if she’s letting him go without a fight.

Which is exactly what Arden of the Asmodai, sexy, arrogant prince of the Nine Hells, and Nic’s guide, is counting on. Half mortal, Arden’s only shot at becoming a full demon is to deliver a willing human to the Fourth Level of Hell. And Nic, desperate to find her brother, will do nicely. But Arden didn't count on Nic’s powerful will...or the ferocity of his desire for her. Now, as they descend into a Hell beyond Nic’s wildest dreams—and her worst nightmares—Arden will take any risk and tell any lie necessary to keep her safe. To possess her. Forever..

Nic makes a deal with a demon, Arden, in order to go rescue her brother. She has to travel to the fourth level of hell to rescue him, and on the way, she starts to feel things she hasn't felt in a long time. Arden thinks he's finally found an out to his boring situation, he needs to bring Nic willingly to the Fourth level of Hell in order to get his transformation. 

Nic is determined to get Drew at any and all costs, even if that means going to Hell and making a Deal with a Demon. She feels responsible for him, even though he has been a pain in her a** for as long as she can remember, but hey aren't all siblings a pain, lol. I would do the same for mine without a doubt. Arden takes advantage of her situation and tries to get what he has been longing for for decades. But as they work with each other, their feelings grow, even though they both try to deny it.  I have read of some stubborn characters but Arden takes the cake. I kind of disliked him a bit at first  he truly didn't redeem himself until the end. It wasn't the fact that he got off on her fear, I mean he's a demon what do we expect, but it was the scheme he had going on, to betray Nic. And the fact that he was so close to doing it, even after realizing his feelings for her, pissed me off a bit. If I could have reached in and shook him up a bit, I would have, lol. But he surely does the sexy bad boy part well.  I really felt for Nic, she is probably one of the top female characters I've read. She's strong, witty, and most importantly, loyal. Her brother is all she has, and even though he's a screw up, she does whatever needs to be done, to bring him back. Sorro is one of the Demons who takes Drew, though he is a villain, I feel like there is more to him than just his evil Demon. I'm hoping we get to see more of him and see what's really up with him.   

To me, this book is more than just a Paranormal story. I can definitely relate with Nic, falling for a "bad boy", knowing that he's just wrong for you but you just can't deny the pull he has on you. That when you get together sparks fly and it's the best thing that ever happened. Being loyal to family no matter what happens. Surviving a tragic death and trying your best to move on and be the best person you can be. Battling with a family member or friend with an illness like addiction. It's all hard and Nic handles it, all of it. I think this was a great read,  I've mentioned before that a book almost made me tear up, but this one did.   

Connect with the Author: 

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7033197.Celeste_Easton

Website: http://www.celesteeaston.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCelesteEaston

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CelesteEaston

Add it to your Goodreads TBR: 

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17729650-deal-with-a-demon?from_search=true

Where to buy:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Deal-Demon-Celeste-Easton/dp/1477807667/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1378324809&sr=8-1&keywords=Deal+with+a+Demon

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/deal-with-a-demon-celeste-easton/1115458686?ean=9781477807668 

review: The Keeper Revenge Book Two in The Keeper Series By: O. L. Ramos

Title: The Keeper Revenge
Author: O. L. Ramos 
Source: Review Request 
Genre: Paranormal 
Reviewed by: Emi 

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

If the world you lived in was someday revealed to be nothing but a lie, would you really want the truth? Elizabeth McBeth did, and she's paid the price for it...

After almost 10 years since Liz's mother was taken from her, Liz finally found her mother, Mary. But Mary has been forever changed, something that Liz will have to accept. The beginning of happier times, one would think...

The conspiracy has been exposed; Liz, Vincent, Mary and Michael had all thought that the vampire plot had been destroyed. They should have never underestimated Klein. 

Klein has reinforced his armies, splitting the entire vampire species with the question... is Klein the vampiric messiah? Unfortunately for the heroes and the world itself, Klein has set in motion a plan that will destroy the world and recreate it in his own image.

Will the group be able to defeat Klein and restore the balance to nature? Or are they already doomed?

The second book in The Keeper series is just as good as the first one, The Keeper Awakening. 

You would definitely have to read the first book in the series though, you would most likely be lost if you read the series out of sync. You can buy The Keeper Awakening here and read my review for it here. 

So, we pick up a few months later after the ordeal at The Coronam. In this installment Liz is feeling a bit lonely and like the odd man, or should I say woman, out. She starts to get a little whiny but at least she knows she is and it's not her character trait at all. 

Michael, and Vincenzo are investigating and trying to gather allies for whatever revenge Klein is planning. Which they all know he is planning something and it is going to be BIG. Mary is at Angel's Retreat with Liz but she's training all of the time, so that leaves Liz all by her lonesome. So she comes up with a plan to gain a little freedom and sanity. And that's when all of the trouble starts. Seriously, this quartet finds themselves in crazy situations quite often, lol. Even though they are always on Klein's tail, it seems they can never gather enough info to be one step ahead of him and stop him. When they finally think they can thwart Klein's plan, they are thrown another obstacle their way. While and in the midst of all of the action, Liz is still trying to figure out who she wants to be with. And then we are left with a crazy a** cliffhanger. Which I will agree with the author's last words on the pages. You have to leave them wanting more. No matter how much I hate cliffhangers, I love them just as much, lol. I like being teased and wanting more, lol, yes I know how that sounds but it's the truth.  In both cases lol. 

Another great read! And I cannot wait to see what kind of trouble these guys get into next, lol. 

Review: AFTER DARK: SHADOW HUNTER by Kait Ballenger

AFTER DARK:  THE DARKEST ANGEL/SHADOW HUNTER
Author:  KAIT BALLENGER
Genre:  Paranormal Romance
Source:  Borrowed from Public Library
Reviewer:  Artemis

A timeless seduction A unique temptation And a whole world of dark desires... 

From New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter

The Darkest Angel 

Winged warrior Lysander has been alive for centuries, and yet he's never known desire-until he meets Bianka. Spawned from the bloodline of his enemy, the beautiful but deadly Harpy is determined to lead the untouched Lysander into temptation. He may try to evade her attempts, but even the most iron-willed demon assassin can resist for only so long....

And from debut author Kait Ballenger

Shadow Hunter 

Vampire hunter Damon Brock's first assignment with the Execution Underground is Rochester, New York, a city crawling with the undead. But he isn't the only hunter in town gunning for vamp blood. Tiffany Solow is fierce and ruthless when it comes to slaying the monsters that destroyed her family-and she works solo. But being alone is no longer so desirable when she meets the mysterious hunter who wants more than just her turf. As they work to massacre the local covens, the line between good and evil blurs when they are forced to decide between their lifelong beliefs... and their newfound hearts.

Review: The Witch's Dream by Victoria Danann

Title: The Witch's Dream (Order of the Black Swan #2)
Author: Victoria Danann
Source: Author Request
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novel
Release Date: October 4, 2013
Reviewer: Jasmyn

DESCRIPTION: From New York to Ireland to Edinburgh to Siena to the Texas Hill Country to Napa Valley, a secret society, a witch, a demon, a psychic, a berserker, an ex-vampire, modern day knights, heroes, werewolves, elves and fae come together where emotions intersect. The story maps a trail from rages to epiphanies, but, in the end, proves that true love can find you in the strangest places, when you're least expecting it, even when you're far, far from home.

SYNOPSIS: 
Quintessential Black Swan knight, Engel Storm, was left behind when Elora Laiken chose his best friend. Now his heart is bruised and battered and he’s had it with love. But a transplanted witch who happens to be the world’s best tracker plans to do everything in her considerable power to change his mind.

The Witch’s Dream begins with B Team on temporary assignment to Black Swan headquarters in Edinburgh where they are supposed to fill in for stretched-thin resources and assist with a werewolf issue. They’ve been given permission to stop on the way to celebrate a special handfasting in an Irish castle.

When they reach Edinburgh, the afterglow of an elftale wedding quickly becomes all business. A missing person report turns into a demon abduction. A simple werewolf sanction becomes a diplomatic issue requiring the one thing Elora is no longer willing to give - finesse. 

*If you have not read Book One this may contain spoilers*

Elora's happily ever after continues in Book Two as she prepares for a royal wedding to Ram.  All of B Team is invited and Storm is doing his best to be a man about not winning the girl.  After they wedding they head to Edinburgh for a few assignments.  This is when the story really takes off.  When a person very important to B Team is kidnapped Storm is sent on the road with Litha, a very powerful witch and tracker, to hunt them down.  Elora and Ram are sent in another direction to find out why there is a werewolf in London (it made me giggle, too).

It may seem like there is a lot going on, but Victoria Danann does a fantastic job of keeping the story flowing and together even when the characters are apart.  I think Litha is going to turn into my new favorite.  She's fun, powerful, not the type to take crap from anyone, and has a bit of a hereditary card up her sleeve.  She knows right away that Storm is her man - now she just need to make sure he realizes it too.  Storm is not quite over Elora and definitely isn't look for love at the moment so Litha has her work cut out for her.

There is a lot of excitement in this one and I love that Danann kept all the characters from book one around playing important roles.  It makes it so easy to fall into her world the second you pick up the book.  I'm not quite sure who we will be watching fall in love in book three...she's left a few options out there to explore.  I can't wait to get started.

Cover Reveal and Excerpt: Shuttered Affection by Rene Folsom

From the author of the Roommate Romance series comes a breathtaking tale of a girl trying to escape her past and focus on her future, all while coping with lust at first sight when she least expects it. To be read as the first novel in the Cornerstone series, I give you the cover of Shuttered Affections...

Release Date: October 15, 2013

Synopsis

After escaping to a college town, Juliana Petersen was determined to put her troubled past behind her and make the most of life. She was satisfied with her current situation, or so she thought. It wasn’t until the day her new photography professor stole her parking spot that she realized there was such thing as lust at first sight. Now, she must struggle with the decision to break the rules and fall in love, or step back and let the chance of a lifetime pass her by—all while her past relationships come back to haunt her.
How many men will it take to break Julia’s hold on reality?

Excerpt

In an attempt to lighten the mood, I changed the subject. Uncrossing my legs, I planted my feet slightly apart in front of me and propped my elbows on my knees.
“I also brought some fruit… grapes and strawberries.” I smiled big at my attempt to be sweet.
“Ahh. Actually, grapes would be great, but I’m allergic to strawberries,” he said with a bashful look on his face.
“Oh, what a shame,” I said with a hint of seduction in my voice. “Because they’re very plump and juicy. I just love strawberries.”
“Oh, you do, do you?” he teased.
I nodded, biting my lip out of nervousness with what I was about to do.
Then, I did the most daring thing I could think of.
I grabbed one of the strawberries and slowly brought it to my mouth. I parted my lips and thrust my tongue slightly out to meet with the delicious red morsel. I bit down while sucking the juices slowly. My eyes fluttered and rolled shut as I enjoyed the delicious flavors bursting onto my taste buds. Seductively, I flicked the leftover green cap into the grass beside us, then began licking and sucking on the two fingers that were covered with the sticky juice.
After enjoying each slow chew, I opened my eyes to gaze upon a man with power and hunger in his eyes. Hunger for me.
The next thing I knew, Aiden was on his hands and knees, methodically making his way towards me.
Out of sheer instinct, I backed away while keeping my legs slightly apart and propping myself back on my arms. He continued his prowl until he was kneeling between my knees with both his hands braced beside me.
He edged closer to me, his lips hovering precariously close to mine. A sudden gasp of breath was all I could manage before our lips met.
His right hand steadied my upper back while he held himself up with his left, hovering over me. His chest pressed hot and hard against mine. Our tongues met and tangled together. I struggled for air but couldn’t pull away. He consumed me.

ADD TO GOODREADS

About the Author

Rene Folsom, author of paranormal romance and erotica, lives in Florida with her husband and three kids. She has officially diagnosed herself with creative ADD and, if it weren't for her day job as a web programmer, she would have a million and one writing projects going at once. In addition to web design, she is also a graphic artist who loves to create custom book cover designs for indie authors. She is definitely an artist at heart and would love nothing more than to be elbow deep in clay during her waking hours.
Rene believes that all fiction is based on some form of reality—otherwise we would never have the inspiration or knowledge to dream up the realistic situations we portray with our words. She is proud to say that her personal experiences have been inspirational, though perhaps not always identical to that of her fictional characters. Where reality and fantasy diverge, however, must remain her little secret…

Connect with Rene: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

ARC Review: Heavy Metal ( Goddess Rising #2) by Natalie J. Damschroder

Title: Heavy Metal ( Goddess Rising #2)
Author : Natalie J. Damschroder
Source: Netgalley ( In exchange for an honest review)
Genre: Romance
Length : paperback 400 pages
Publisher:  Entangled Publishing, LLC
Reviewed by: Cerridwen

The world is not what Riley Kordek imagined. On the run from those who’ve targeted her, all Riley wants is a chance to figure out her new ability to bend metal's energy. When a hot guy who knows more than he should helps her escape her attackers, she thinks she might’ve found someone who can lead her to the answers she needs.

Three years ago, Sam Remington walked away from his employer and the woman he loved, and now, all he’s looking to do is fill the gaping hole left behind. Except, when Sam takes Riley to the Society for Goddess Education and Defense, the stakes rise beyond what either of them could have imagined.

After being alone for so long, falling for Sam would be far too easy—and far too painful, once his old flame calls needing his help. Worse, Riley uncovers a plot with disastrous ramifications not only for herself, but for Sam and the people he loves—and potentially every goddess in the country.

 

I seem to have a bad habit of choosing books for their covers, hee hee.

This book didn't leave me disappointed either so I must be having good luck with my strategy.  Being the second in a series, I have NOT ready the first in this either, the storyline could be a stand alone. It had a back story of the previous book but also followed up with enough that it didn't leave the reader hanging going : what the F just happened?!"

It took me a bit to warm up tot he Riley character. At first she seemed strong willed and the you learn she is really just winging it. Not knowing much at all about her powers except by trail and error,  she is smart enough to track down Sam.

Together they create a wonderful power couple in every sense of the word.

This book held me from the first chapter. The action was well placed and romantic tension well drawn out enough to clench your first.

I have a feeling Damschroder is going to be an author to keep an eye out for.

 

 

 

 

 

   

Indie Romance Convention Victoria Danann Book Trailer

Victoria Danann is one of our attending authors for the Indie Romance Convention. Hope to see you there!!

THIS IS THE THIRD INSTALLMENT in the ongoing story of the Black Swan serial saga. Before you read, please read Book 1, My Familiar Stranger (FREE) and Book 2, The Witch's Dream, FIRST!!

 A secret society, a witch, a psychic, vampires, modern day knights, heroes, elves, fae, assassins from another dimension, and fairytales come together where emotions intersect. Two souls, joined by a mystical bond, separated by distance, must simultaneously struggle through pain and darkness in an ultimate confrontation with character and an ultimate struggle for life proving that true love waits patiently through lifetimes and finds courage to survive. Even in the strangest places. Even when you're least expecting it. Even when you're far, far from home.

One Lucky Vampire by Lynsay Sands

Title: One Lucky Vampire (Argeneu, #19)
Author: Lynsay Sands
Source: Edelweiss
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novel (386pgs)
Reviewer: CaroleDee

Luck be a vampire tonight . . .

When Nicole Phillips agreed to hire a housekeeper, she pictured someone a little frumpy and almost certainly female. Instead, she gets gorgeous, unmistakably male Jake Colson. The man is proving indispensable in the kitchen—and everywhere else. Except Jake might not be a mortal man at all.

. . . and every night

Who wouldn't want to be a tall, dark, powerful vampire? Jake, for one. He's barely had time to adjust to his new state before he's roped into a family favor. Still, secretly playing bodyguard to sweet, sexy Nicole is turning out to be the wildest ride of his life. First he'll put a stop to whoever's targeting her. Then he'll prove that this kind of love, and luck, happens only once in an eternity.

Pure unadulterated romance where one of the characters just happens to be a vampire.

It seems like it's becoming harder and harder to find PNR that revolve around the hero/heroine's relationship building and ultimate HEA rather than 'taking out a faction of evil'. One Lucky Vampire kept things clean and easy in the sense that the majority of the book is about Nicole and Jake and the crazy thing that is falling in love. Yes there is a foe trying to cause Nicole harm, but it's used as a plot device to strengthen the h and H's relationship rather than dragging them into impossible situations with a lot of over the top drama.

Sometimes I want outrageous situations and sometimes I want sweet romance. This entry into the Argenau series definitley falls into the latter category. If you're looking for a sweet romance, with typically hot Lynsay Sands sex scenes then you're going to be happy with this one. I'm taking off one point solely because of the few ridiculous chapters when Jake/Stephano's HUGE family comes to help out with a situation. True to other Argeneau titles there were just too many family members barging into a situation where only one or two people would have been helpful. All those characters just seem to jumble the story. 
Don't let that keep you away, though, it's still good fun ;) 

Remember Me Thursday - Pet Adoption Awareness Campaign

I know what you’re saying these video are sad and it breaks your heart to watch them, but what you’re not seeing is these animals needs a home and the only way they can get a home is by you helping them, even if it's by sharing a simple post on any of your social networks. Just think about it only 30 percent of pets at home are from rescued felicitates, to me this video is not sad it's life that needs to be loved. So get your fingers to working and start sharing. Remember me Tuesday website Click on this link to find photos you can add on your Facebook page and other social networks. http://www.animalcenter.org/events/remember-me-thursday/light-a-candle.aspx

Review: My Familiar Stranger by Victoria Danann

Title: My Familiar Stranger (Order of the Black Swan #1)
Author: Victoria Danann
Source: Author Request
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novel
Release Date: April 21, 2012
Reviewer: Jasmyn

Smart. Sexy. Magical.

A secret society, modern day knights, an accidental pilgrim from an alternate dimension, and a vampire like no other come together where chance intersects romance for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, proving that true love can find you in the strangest places, even far, far from home.

DESCRIPTION...

Minutes ahead of inevitable assassination, Elora Laiken is forcibly transported to an alternate dimension similar, but not identical, to her own.  She is stranded.  Alone.  Far from home.  A stranger in a "strangish" land.

Of course a girl could suffer worse problems than having gorgeous suitors.  Perhaps more importantly, in the midst of an epidemic of vampire related abductions, can she stay alive long enough to choose between an honor debt, true love, or the breathlessness of single-minded passion?

I've been looking forward to this series for awhile - everywhere I hear such great things about it.  I'm happy to say that it didn't disappoint one bit.  From page one Victoria Danann draws you into Elora's story as she is quite literally ripped from her own dimension into another.  The story related her experience beautifully.  With just enough of the world alike to ours that it's easy to understand and relate to the strange but little differences Elora experiences.

Saying Elora's arrival in this dimension was painful would be an understatement.  The men that witness her arrival aren't even sure if she's human at first.  But one, Storm quickly comes to the rescue and whisks her off to the infirmary where they patch her back up.  Storm sits by her side and the two become very close.  But when she is introduced to Ram, he realizes he almost missed out on meeting the most important person in his life.  These men that surround Elora are part of The Order of the Black Swan - vampire hunters and protectors of the "real world" from the paranormal.

Elora is eager to help her new friends and in the process runs into a very unique vampire by the name of Istan Baka.  I can't say too much about him just yet, but he's quite the character and I loved him.  Now it may seem like there is a lot going on...and there is...but the book paces everything beautifully.  Keeping the action going without being overwhelming.  There were several points that had my heart racing and unable to put the book down.  The romance was touching, but it did keep you guessing which wonderful guy she would eventually pick.

I couldn't wait to pick up the next.  These books were written perfectly to follow one after the other.  Enough of a cliffhanger to make you extremely curious, enough of an ending to give you a little resolution.

AUTHOR INFO:

Website - Blog - Facebook - Twitter

ARC review: Bound by Night by Larissa Ione

Tile: Bound by Night (MoonBound Clan Vampires, #1)

Author: Larissa Ione

Source: Publisher request 

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Length: Novel 

Reviewed by Laurie 

The first installment in a sexy new paranormal romance series by Larissa Ione, author of the bestselling Demonica series!

A WOMAN OUT FOR BLOOD
Nicole Martin was only eight years old when the vampire slaves rose up in rebellion and killed her family. Now she devotes her life to finding a vaccine against vampirism, hoping to wipe out her memories—along with every bloodsucker on the planet. But there’s one thing she cannot destroy: her searing, undeniable attraction for the one man she should hate and fear the most . . .

A VAMPIRE OUT FOR REVENGE
A member of the renegade vampire MoonBound Clan, Riker is haunted by demons of his own. When he recognizes Nicole and remembers how her family enslaved his loved ones, his heart burns for vengeance. But when he kidnaps Nicole and holds her in a secret lair, his mortal enemy becomes his soul obsession, his greatest temptation, and, perhaps, his only salvation—a hot-blooded lover who could heal him with her touch . . . or bury him forever.

Cover Reveal: Latham's Landing Anthology by Tara Fox Hall

Title: Latham's Landing Anthology
Author: Tara Fox Hall
Publication Date: October 2013

The Origin of Fear
Four college friends mount an expedition to Latham's Landing - an abandoned island estate infamous for mysterious deaths - to gather pictures and inspiration for a thesis on the origin of fear.
All That Remains
Sandra has come to Latham's Landing seeking to discover what really happened to her relative who disappeared there years before, persuading her reluctant friend Tina that a little paranormal investigation will be fun.
The Fire Within
A bittern Caroline Stone embarks on a mission to destroy the evil isle estate that took her fiance, joining with several others also out for retribution.  Can the combined fire of their hate triumph over the relentless evil of Latham's Landing.

Excerpt:
It was a clear calm night.  Carolyn watched the lake waves lapping the shore, then looked out into the blackness.
The cursed house was out there, waiting.  Latham's Landing.  It had killed Rob.  It hadn't been any accident.  Tonight she was here to settle the score.
She hefted the twenty-gallon cans of gas into the boat one by one.  It had taken a stop at each station on the long journey here to not arouse suspicion.  That last place she'd had to buy three, and the guy had taken her name.  That didn't matter though.  By tomorrow she'd have burned all that stood on Cairn Isle down to the granite.
It was said if you went to the island, you never came back.  That was fine.  Without Rob she didn't want to live.  The fire within her raged, its fury poisonous.  She would destroy the cursed house, or die.

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ARC Review: Bound by Night by Larissa Ione

Title: Bound by Night
Author: Larissa Ione
Source: Edelweiss
Genre: PNR
Length: Novel (400pgs)
Reviewer: CaroleDee
Pub Date: Sept 24, 2013 by Simon and Schuster

A WOMAN OUT FOR BLOOD
Nicole Martin was only eight years old when the vampire slaves rose up in rebellion and killed her family. Now she devotes her life to finding a vaccine against vampirism, hoping to wipe out her memories—along with every bloodsucker on the planet. But there’s one thing she cannot destroy: her searing, undeniable attraction for the one man she should hate and fear the most . . .

A VAMPIRE OUT FOR REVENGE
A member of the renegade vampire MoonBound Clan, Riker is haunted by demons of his own. When he recognizes Nicole and remembers how her family enslaved his loved ones, his heart burns for vengeance. But when he kidnaps Nicole and holds her in a secret lair, his mortal enemy becomes his soul obsession, his greatest temptation, and, perhaps, his only salvation—a hot-blooded lover who could heal him with her touch . . . or bury him forever.

Oh geez, I feel like I'm about to tell my best friend that her butt does indeed look big in those jeans :(

I love Larissa Ione's Demonica series. I've read it over and over again. Heck, they were part of the reason that I got hooked on PNR, which is why this review is so hard to write. The premise sounds promising, but as I started to read there were things that aggravated me:

Vampires have been used as slave for over 50 years. That's fifty years of humans being exposed to them and in all that time no one realized that they have the same emotions/wants/needs of humans? At first I wrote this off using examples of slavery from our past. For centuries our ancestors treated people different to themselves as nothing more than animals and felt no moral qualms, so, I used this reasoning and tried to move on. BUT it eventually got to be too much for me. Nicole's doctorate in vampire physiology leads me to believe that she's been exposed to vampires. A lot. Add to that the fact that her family owns a huge company that would lead to further exposure to vampires and I started asking questions. How in the heck in all that time did she not realize that they're just people that need a little sip of blood occasionally to live? It's just so unbelievable I wanted to pull my hair out.

Nicole as a character was just soooo naive. Poor little rich girl has all of the book smarts in the world, but streets smarts she is 'a lacking'. *I'm talking more than a couple of too stupid to live moments*

Then there's the originality factor. Maybe I have read too much PNR, so I'm jaded, but it just doesn't seem like there was anything new going on. 
Feuding vampire clans? Check. 
Idiotic heroine? Check. 
Alpha vampire male that hates humans but somehow falls for idiotic heroine? Check, check, check!

I have a feeling that if Bound by Night had been written and released three years ago I would have given it a solid 4 stars, but since the bar for the vampire genre has been raised in the last few years I'm letting it stand at as a 2 :(

Sorry Larissa, I still love you!

Review: Captured Love, Zankli Chronicles Book 2 By: M. J. Duffy

Title: Captured Love, Zankli Chronicles Book 2
Author: M. J. Duffy
Source: Review Request 
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 297 pages PDF 
Reviewed by: Emi 

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review** 

CAPTURED LOVE is the second volume of the Zankli Chronicles, which continues the sensual, epic fantasy of a race of beings whose superhuman gifts and soul connections transcend time and distance. Their ancient fables tell the story of a sacred river whose location high in the mountains of West Africa has been lost to memory. The greatest threat to the survival of Zankli—as well as to the survival of humankind—is the Tibooquee, known throughout Zankli as the Anomaly. It is the Anomaly that has sequestered the river, cloaking it from all humanity.

In LOST LOVE Book One, Nadu the daughter of the King and a Promised Child is abducted by slavers and taken aboard the Black Jewel, her entire world is turned upside down, and a set of events is set in motion that appears to challenge the prophecy – or does it?

Three hundred years later in America, Hara, a Prince of Zankli experiences a revelation following a chance encounter with a beautiful woman. To his astonishment, Monique turns out to be the unusually gifted sister of his kinsman Andre Dunn, and a purebred Zankli who possesses the power of travel. Hara is inexorably drawn to her, and she to him. But unobserved and in various disguises, Tibooquee conspires to keep the two apart. So begins an adventure whose outcome will determine the fate of all Zankli.

In this tale of seduction, betrayal, dark rivalries and psychological warfare, the Zankli’s only hope for salvation lies in a young time-traveling warrior, Tukvihi, the Supreme Chosen, who joins his cousins in the battle to defeat the forces of darkness and once again open the path to the River of Life.

The Zankli Chronicles have been an amazing read so far. The first book Lost Love was a very deep and emotional read, you can find my review for it here. And Captured Love has been an extraordinary ride. It takes us for not only an incredible journey through time but is also an amazing story about love and destinies fulfilled. We are introduced to Hara and Monique in Lost love, but there roles are significantly more important in Captured Love. They are the Chosen ones and are both part of a prophecy to save human kind from the Anomaly. The Anomaly is the most evil being to exist on earth and has been working since the beginning of time to destroy The Zankli. 

Hara is the Prince of the Zankli and is very accustomed to getting whatever he pleases, he's also a total chauvinist, which is the total opposite of his prophesied mate.   Monique is a beautiful  independent woman who is not very happy with the chauvinist ways of the Zankli men, but even more so when it is her intended mate. They must come together and defeat the Anomaly, which is not very easy to do. 

I have read of some wicked villains but the Tiooquee are just pure evil and  absolutely crazed with the goal to eradicate all of the Zankli. Hara and Monique's union must never happen if the Anomaly is to succeed in taking down the Zankli. While the Tibooquee's efforts are thwarted at every turn, they may have at least accomplished to hurt the Zankli along the way. 

Captured Love was a great read and I highly recommend the series.

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Cover Reveal and Excerpt: Wildfire by Mina Khan

Title: Wildfire: A Paranormal Mystery with Cowboys and Dragons
Author: Mina Khan
Release Date: September 20, 2013

Make sure you check out the excerpt below - the description of her shifting is one of the best I've seen.

Lynn Hana Alexander is a 25-year-old Japanese American shape shifter haunted by guilt.  She's been questioning herself and her dragon abilities ever since she failed to save her grandmother.

When her best friend is threatened by mysterious fires burning up acres of West Texas, Lynn rushes to her rescue, determined not to fail her friend as well.  However, with a tempting firefighter, a flirty city developer and dragon pheromones distracting her, how is she going to find the arsonist?

And worse: is her primary suspect a malicious rogue dragon or the love of her life?

Excerpt from Wildfire:
Fear incinerated sleep, left her mouth tasting of ash.

Lynn Alexander's parched throat ached.  Her mind plucked at reason.  She'd been dreaming of fire again.  Wild, angry flames.  Billowing smoke.  A faint voice pleading for help.  Through it all, someone - something - watched her.  Waited.

"Come here."  Another voice, dark and intimate, had commanded from the depths of the fire.  "Come here, little girl."

Then a man's face emerged from the smoke and flames.  Strong and grim with rugged angles, sensuous lips and intense green eyes that glittered with blistering heat.

Panic pressed on her windpipe.  Lynn wrenched her head sideways, blinked back tears and stared at the pebbled texture of the wall next to her bed.  Ragged breath caught in her lungs and she focused on the present to escape the grasping remnants of the dream.  She turned in to the soft swish of the fan, the quiet roar of the air conditioner, the wild thrashing of her heart.

A nightmare.  The same damn nightmare she'd been having all week.

An insidious whisper echoed in her head: Not a dream.  A vision.

Like before, like when her grandmother died.

Dread rolled through her, cold and certain.

Who was the mysterious man?  The person in trouble or the murderer she hunted?  A prickly knowing grew inside her, jamming at the base of her throat.  The tightness turned needle sharp, and then popped.  A single thought formed: Save Jen.

Tangled in bed sheets she twisted around to snatch her cell from the nightstand.  The clock blinked three a.m. in poison green numerals.  Jen would be mega-pissed if the phone woke her at this ungodly hour in the middle of a work week for no reason.  Worry itched between Lynn's shoulder blades.  But what if this was a true warning?  She'd rather risk her best friend's wrath than her life.

Clutching the phone, she speed dialed Jen.  No answer.  Pick up the phone.  Pick up the damn phone.

After six rings. she snapped the phone shut and threw off the covers.  Lynn leapt out of bed, and stripped out of her sweaty clothes.  She grabbed the backpack she always kept ready by her bedside, shoved the phone into a front pocket, and slipped her arms into extra-long straps.  She knew she shouldn't risk exposure, but she had to get to Jen.  Protect her from whatever danger threatened.

Naked, she rushed to to French doors and threw them open.  The cool October breeze embraced her and dried the sweat clinging to her skin.  She stared into the night, glad of the darkness.  Being one of the rare shape-shifters in the family garnered her a room with rooftop access.  Closing her eyes, she inhaled the dank smell of the bayou and sumoned the change.

Heat crackled across her skin, filled her mind, as blue-green scales rippled over her body giving her tan a bronze sheen.  Lynn's core dissolved to molten lava, reformed and hardened.  Muscles stretched and grew stronger, bones pushed and molded to flesh.  Nubs emerged from her back, elongated and flared into wings.  A deep burn spread from her gut, igniting cell after cell, until she shook like a live wire juiced on raw power.

Her leathery wings flailed behind her as she stumbled around a bit before settling into the new weight.  One would think a five foot one and half-inch Asian American woman would transform into a delicate, miniature-poodle type of dragon.  Not so.  In dragon-form, Lynn was seven feet of sharp scales, sinuous muscle and steely strength.

She raised her face to the moon and launched from the roof.  Below her, Buffalo Bayou wound through downtown Houston glittering like a new of diamonds under the silver moonlight.  The tremendous beat of her wings drowned out her worries for a moment.

If you want to learn more about Mina Khan or follow what she's up to, then check her out online at:

Website:  HERE
Blog:  HERE
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If you'd like a signed paperback of Wildfire, check out the GoodReads Giveaway: HERE
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