The luck winner is Kelesy! Thanks to everyone who stopped by and make sure you mark this book to read. Thanks again Karin!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Winner Of the L.O.S.T Mug by Karin Harlow
The luck winner is Kelesy! Thanks to everyone who stopped by and make sure you mark this book to read. Thanks again Karin!
Author Monica Burns talks about her new series and giveaway
Hi everyone, so happy to be here at Bitten by Paranormal Romance, and a huge thanks to Laurie and Stacey for allowing me to talk about my new paranormal series.
BbPNR-Monica would you please give us a little about yourself?
Monica-A little about me…hmm, well, I’m an eclectic soul who’s still figuring out how to grow up. I’m still a kid at heart. Despite the body’s attempts to tell me otherwise, I’m a lover of all things that generally just kids love. Give me a good computer game, video game, action adventure movie (Star Trek, National Treasure, Iron Man anyone??) or the ultimate thrill, ROLLERCOASTERS! I also tend not to be the stereotypical shy, reclusive writer. I love to chat with readers. Actually, I can usually talk someone’s ear off. As for the official blurb, I’m a workaholic wife and mother, and I believe in following your dreams.
BbPNR-Now Monica for the biggie;) Please tell us all that you can on your new series.
Monica-The Order of the Sicari. Where do I start without boring you to tears? Maybe Ares. HAWT. Lysander. HAWT. Dante (although he’s not made an appearance yet). HAWT. Marcus (older, but still sizzling). HAWT.
These guys are Italian alpha males, cut from the same cloth as the ancient Roman Praetorian Guard who served the Caesars. I’m talking hard-edged warriors who can’t be tamed except by the women who love them. Even then these guys can still take control of their woman and demand their surrender with a sweet whisper of Italian in their ears.
I’ve always loved ancient Roman history, and when I was trying to develop a series that was unique yet still had a familiarity to it, I was at a loss. I’d never built a paranormal world before, and it’s one thing to love a genre, but a whole different ball game to write it. So in a fit of depression I sat down to escape from my woes in the delicious soap opera ROME from HBO. I was enraptured and got a tiny nugget of an idea.
The Basics
Hunted for two thousand years by their enemies, the Praetorians, the Sicari are telekinetic assassins who kill in the name of justice. They take out criminals who the justice system lets slip through the cracks. We’re talking drug lords, child molesters, murderers, etc. And they do it quietly and with great skill as they’re incredible swordsmen. They don’t use guns. It’s easy to kill with a gun, but to kill with a sword takes greater skill.
The telepathic Praetorians took to hiding in the Church two thousand years ago. What better place to hide than inside the very entity that is persecuting those thought to be practicing witchcraft. The Praetorians also have the ability to target the Sicari using the vast resources of the Church.
The Sicari and the Praetorians have been looking for an artifact called the Tyet of Isis that contains a valuable object. Problem is, neither side knows what’s in the artifact. On top of that it’s been missing for two thousand years. But the Sicari know enough that if the artifact falls into Praetorian hands, they’re going to be in a major world of hurt. So my heroes are determined to find the artifact to save the Sicari from extinction.
Sicari Warriors
I’d like to say that my Sicari heroes came to me like a bolt out of the blue. But they didn’t. They’ve evolved slowly, but with great clarity. Ares, the hero in Assassin’s Honor (06/10), was a delight to write because he was showing me the Sicari world in bits and pieces just like he does Emma. And I confess I had trouble letting go of Ares, he’s such a great hero. His sacrifice at the end makes him even more endearing to me.
The Sicari world itself is so complex that I had to scale back some in order not to overwhelm the romance. Characters started showing up who I knew would eventually have their own books, but I didn’t know them well at all. Cleo is a good example. She showed up at the end of Assassin’s Honor, and she plays a strong part in Assassins Heart (09/10) and it looks like Book 3 is going to be Cleo’s book with a mysterious rogue Sicari. And her mother Atia will be sharing that book with the conclusion of her own story that started in Assassin’s Heart.
Speaking of Assassin’s Heart, I have to say that Lysander is probably one of my all-time favorite heroes. He’s so tortured, and I love how Phaedra helps pull him out of his shell. I also love the past life aspect that affects these two characters trying to deal with some really nasty villains in present day Rome. The book has some scenes that left me in tears, and as I’m an alpha female, that’s rather unusual (me crying). So I’m proud of the book. I just finished edits to the books, and I found it ironic that after Lysander and Phaedra’s HEA, I would come across a song that so epitomizes their HEA. It’s Westlife’s When You Tell Me You Love Me. The words just echo with all the emotions these two characters overcame in achieving their HEA. Check out the video on YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3hhgtazt_Y
I am eager to see how readers respond to the Order of the Sicari books and my heroes. I love them all, and even my villains. Thanks again to Laurie and Stacey for having me here, and I hope you’ll check out Assassin’s Honor when it hits shelves on June 1st. Just as a teaser, you can read the first three chapters of Assassin’s Honor for free on my website to get a taste of Emma and Ares.
http://www.monicaburns.com/BookshelfAssassinsHonorExcerpt.htm
Monica will be by later today so if you have a question please ask.
Now, I have a copy of Assassin's Honor for a giveaway.
If you want a chance to win the book please say enter me with your comment or question and leave your email that way I can tell who is entering and who isn't.
The drawing requirements
Drawing is open to residents in US and other countries. Void where prohibited. Shipping/handling fees for shipment of book outside the US is responsibility of winner. International winners may pay the required postage via PayPal. To ensure as many readers as possible have a chance to win a copy of the book, Monica awards only one book per reader, per household.
Ends 5/15/10
BbPNR-Monica would you please give us a little about yourself?
Monica-A little about me…hmm, well, I’m an eclectic soul who’s still figuring out how to grow up. I’m still a kid at heart. Despite the body’s attempts to tell me otherwise, I’m a lover of all things that generally just kids love. Give me a good computer game, video game, action adventure movie (Star Trek, National Treasure, Iron Man anyone??) or the ultimate thrill, ROLLERCOASTERS! I also tend not to be the stereotypical shy, reclusive writer. I love to chat with readers. Actually, I can usually talk someone’s ear off. As for the official blurb, I’m a workaholic wife and mother, and I believe in following your dreams.
BbPNR-Now Monica for the biggie;) Please tell us all that you can on your new series.
Monica-The Order of the Sicari. Where do I start without boring you to tears? Maybe Ares. HAWT. Lysander. HAWT. Dante (although he’s not made an appearance yet). HAWT. Marcus (older, but still sizzling). HAWT.
These guys are Italian alpha males, cut from the same cloth as the ancient Roman Praetorian Guard who served the Caesars. I’m talking hard-edged warriors who can’t be tamed except by the women who love them. Even then these guys can still take control of their woman and demand their surrender with a sweet whisper of Italian in their ears.
I’ve always loved ancient Roman history, and when I was trying to develop a series that was unique yet still had a familiarity to it, I was at a loss. I’d never built a paranormal world before, and it’s one thing to love a genre, but a whole different ball game to write it. So in a fit of depression I sat down to escape from my woes in the delicious soap opera ROME from HBO. I was enraptured and got a tiny nugget of an idea.
The Basics
Hunted for two thousand years by their enemies, the Praetorians, the Sicari are telekinetic assassins who kill in the name of justice. They take out criminals who the justice system lets slip through the cracks. We’re talking drug lords, child molesters, murderers, etc. And they do it quietly and with great skill as they’re incredible swordsmen. They don’t use guns. It’s easy to kill with a gun, but to kill with a sword takes greater skill.
The telepathic Praetorians took to hiding in the Church two thousand years ago. What better place to hide than inside the very entity that is persecuting those thought to be practicing witchcraft. The Praetorians also have the ability to target the Sicari using the vast resources of the Church.
The Sicari and the Praetorians have been looking for an artifact called the Tyet of Isis that contains a valuable object. Problem is, neither side knows what’s in the artifact. On top of that it’s been missing for two thousand years. But the Sicari know enough that if the artifact falls into Praetorian hands, they’re going to be in a major world of hurt. So my heroes are determined to find the artifact to save the Sicari from extinction.
Sicari Warriors
I’d like to say that my Sicari heroes came to me like a bolt out of the blue. But they didn’t. They’ve evolved slowly, but with great clarity. Ares, the hero in Assassin’s Honor (06/10), was a delight to write because he was showing me the Sicari world in bits and pieces just like he does Emma. And I confess I had trouble letting go of Ares, he’s such a great hero. His sacrifice at the end makes him even more endearing to me.
The Sicari world itself is so complex that I had to scale back some in order not to overwhelm the romance. Characters started showing up who I knew would eventually have their own books, but I didn’t know them well at all. Cleo is a good example. She showed up at the end of Assassin’s Honor, and she plays a strong part in Assassins Heart (09/10) and it looks like Book 3 is going to be Cleo’s book with a mysterious rogue Sicari. And her mother Atia will be sharing that book with the conclusion of her own story that started in Assassin’s Heart.
Speaking of Assassin’s Heart, I have to say that Lysander is probably one of my all-time favorite heroes. He’s so tortured, and I love how Phaedra helps pull him out of his shell. I also love the past life aspect that affects these two characters trying to deal with some really nasty villains in present day Rome. The book has some scenes that left me in tears, and as I’m an alpha female, that’s rather unusual (me crying). So I’m proud of the book. I just finished edits to the books, and I found it ironic that after Lysander and Phaedra’s HEA, I would come across a song that so epitomizes their HEA. It’s Westlife’s When You Tell Me You Love Me. The words just echo with all the emotions these two characters overcame in achieving their HEA. Check out the video on YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3hhgtazt_Y
I am eager to see how readers respond to the Order of the Sicari books and my heroes. I love them all, and even my villains. Thanks again to Laurie and Stacey for having me here, and I hope you’ll check out Assassin’s Honor when it hits shelves on June 1st. Just as a teaser, you can read the first three chapters of Assassin’s Honor for free on my website to get a taste of Emma and Ares.
http://www.monicaburns.com/BookshelfAssassinsHonorExcerpt.htm
Monica will be by later today so if you have a question please ask.
Now, I have a copy of Assassin's Honor for a giveaway.
If you want a chance to win the book please say enter me with your comment or question and leave your email that way I can tell who is entering and who isn't.
The drawing requirements
Drawing is open to residents in US and other countries. Void where prohibited. Shipping/handling fees for shipment of book outside the US is responsibility of winner. International winners may pay the required postage via PayPal. To ensure as many readers as possible have a chance to win a copy of the book, Monica awards only one book per reader, per household.
Ends 5/15/10
Thursday, May 13, 2010
ARC Review Assassin's Honor by Monica Burns
Assassin's Honor - First book in the An Order of the Sicari
Author Monica Burns
Paranormal Trade paperback 352 pgs.
ARC copy the release date is June the first.
Authors website
Book description
Archeologist Emma Zale sees the past when she touches ancient relics. It’s how she uncovered evidence of an ancient order of assassins—the Sicari. When a sinfully dark stranger shows up on her Chicago doorstep demanding an ancient artifact she doesn’t have, he drags her into a world where telekinesis and empaths are the norm. Now someone wants her dead, and her only hope of survival is an assassin who’s every bit as dangerous to her body as he is to her heart.
Ares De Luca comes from an ancient Roman bloodline of telekinetic assassins. A Sicari, he’s honor bound to kill only in the name of justice. But when the woman he loved was murdered, Ares broke the Sicari code and used his sword for revenge. Love cost him dearly once before, and he’s not willing to pay the price again. At least not until hot, sweet, delectable Emma walked into his life. Not only does she hold the key to a valuable Sicari relic, she might just hold the key to his heart.
Laurie's reivew
Rating-
Sexual-
What an impressive spicy way to start a new series. Once I started reading this book it made me want to go right out and study Archaeology, just so I could meet my hot Sicari warrior. Oh, did I forget to mention the adventure that comes along with the warrior, well hold on to your seat because this one has an exciting one. With Ares warrior attitude and Emma’s sarcastic charm they keep you enchanted the whole time. I will be vague in this review I hate to give out to much info.
I loved the Sicari characters Monica has created in this book, they are strong warrior men and women. Lysander looks hot from one side of his face but the other side tells a different story. He really charmed his way into my heart in this story, so I really cant wait for his book now. Phae is Ares sister and she has a special power as all Sicari women, she can heal. I really enjoyed reading Phae I hope she will have her own story. I love the powers Monica gave these warriors. Even Emma has a special talent that’s really neat.
Little spoilers
When Emma was at an archaeology dig in Cairo she found her parents had always been right, the Sicari wasn’t a myth. As she tapped another piece of mud off the wall she seen the evidence of a icon that proved the elite guild assassins descendents of Ptolemy’s personal guard was real. Her boss Charlie, ends up dead at the dig and Emma found herself the main suspect after a few hours of questioning at the police station and a little unknown help from Ares, she fond herself back at home in Chicago. Low and behold she fond some items her father has left about the Sicari and while she is reading what her father had left, she heard the floors squeak. She knew she locked the doors, but this man was able to come in with the locks in place. Who is the intruder is he the one that has come back to kill her like Charlie or is it someone else? You’ll have to read and find out what happens to Emma.
Ares is a strong warrior that believes in honor. He does break rules but he takes the Sicari Order’s laws serious. Its so serious as you read you’ll figure out he will do anything to hold up Sicari traditions. Make sure your ready for this ride because you may find yourself with tissues as Ares holds up honor and keeps Emma safe.
The only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars is because, Emma. She got on my nerve in middle of the book. Emma keeps thinking back to her bad relationship and keeps thinking Ares is the same as her ex fiancé
with out really stopping and thinking what all Ares has gone through just to keep her safe. You see at the end the story is not finished, so you’ll be waiting on the next installment to see what’s going to happen next.
Books in order
1.Assassin's Honor
2.Assassin's Heart
Author Monica Burns
Paranormal Trade paperback 352 pgs.
ARC copy the release date is June the first.
Authors website
Book description
Archeologist Emma Zale sees the past when she touches ancient relics. It’s how she uncovered evidence of an ancient order of assassins—the Sicari. When a sinfully dark stranger shows up on her Chicago doorstep demanding an ancient artifact she doesn’t have, he drags her into a world where telekinesis and empaths are the norm. Now someone wants her dead, and her only hope of survival is an assassin who’s every bit as dangerous to her body as he is to her heart.
Ares De Luca comes from an ancient Roman bloodline of telekinetic assassins. A Sicari, he’s honor bound to kill only in the name of justice. But when the woman he loved was murdered, Ares broke the Sicari code and used his sword for revenge. Love cost him dearly once before, and he’s not willing to pay the price again. At least not until hot, sweet, delectable Emma walked into his life. Not only does she hold the key to a valuable Sicari relic, she might just hold the key to his heart.
Laurie's reivew
Rating-
Sexual-
What an impressive spicy way to start a new series. Once I started reading this book it made me want to go right out and study Archaeology, just so I could meet my hot Sicari warrior. Oh, did I forget to mention the adventure that comes along with the warrior, well hold on to your seat because this one has an exciting one. With Ares warrior attitude and Emma’s sarcastic charm they keep you enchanted the whole time. I will be vague in this review I hate to give out to much info.
I loved the Sicari characters Monica has created in this book, they are strong warrior men and women. Lysander looks hot from one side of his face but the other side tells a different story. He really charmed his way into my heart in this story, so I really cant wait for his book now. Phae is Ares sister and she has a special power as all Sicari women, she can heal. I really enjoyed reading Phae I hope she will have her own story. I love the powers Monica gave these warriors. Even Emma has a special talent that’s really neat.
Little spoilers
When Emma was at an archaeology dig in Cairo she found her parents had always been right, the Sicari wasn’t a myth. As she tapped another piece of mud off the wall she seen the evidence of a icon that proved the elite guild assassins descendents of Ptolemy’s personal guard was real. Her boss Charlie, ends up dead at the dig and Emma found herself the main suspect after a few hours of questioning at the police station and a little unknown help from Ares, she fond herself back at home in Chicago. Low and behold she fond some items her father has left about the Sicari and while she is reading what her father had left, she heard the floors squeak. She knew she locked the doors, but this man was able to come in with the locks in place. Who is the intruder is he the one that has come back to kill her like Charlie or is it someone else? You’ll have to read and find out what happens to Emma.
Ares is a strong warrior that believes in honor. He does break rules but he takes the Sicari Order’s laws serious. Its so serious as you read you’ll figure out he will do anything to hold up Sicari traditions. Make sure your ready for this ride because you may find yourself with tissues as Ares holds up honor and keeps Emma safe.
The only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars is because, Emma. She got on my nerve in middle of the book. Emma keeps thinking back to her bad relationship and keeps thinking Ares is the same as her ex fiancé
with out really stopping and thinking what all Ares has gone through just to keep her safe. You see at the end the story is not finished, so you’ll be waiting on the next installment to see what’s going to happen next.
Books in order
1.Assassin's Honor
2.Assassin's Heart
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Interview and giveaway with Karin Harlow, author of Enemy Lover
I was lucky to come across a book called Enemy Lover in a RT magazine. As soon as I seen the cover I went to Karin's website. The blurb looked so good I just had to see if Karin would tell us more about her hot new series and guess what? Karin said yes! So now sit back and enjoy the interview with your coffee and oh ya, take another guess? You may be drinking you next cup of coffee in one of Karin's L.O.S.T signature seal mugs next time, because Karin is so graciously giving away one of her mugs, see at the end of the post!
Thank you, Laurie for inviting me to Bitten by Paranormal Romance today!
BbPNR-Karin, would you please tell us a little about yourself?
Karin- I live in sunny California and I’m very happily married to a retired cop, who is always more than happy to help with action or procedural scenes. He’s a total alpha in all the good ways and even a couple of naughty ways, but he’s cute and means well, so it’s ok. I’ve been writing since I was in high school. I love to read tempestuous stories with passionate flawed characters. It’s also what I write.
BbPNR-Do you have a favorite hobby?
Karin-Writing used to be a hobby, now it’s my full time job, a job I love! I enjoy wine and taking trips to the California wine regions, which are many. I love to cook too and garden. My yard is overflowing with blooms.
BbPNR-What kind of books do you like to read when you have time?
Karin- I’m not genre picky, what I love to read are layered character driven stories. I’m a character nut. Plot is important to me, but I love reading the books where after I read the end I keep thinking of the protagonists. I love rereading old favorites.
BbPNR-Where do you find your inspiration for writing?
Karin- All around me. Life, my children, family, acquaintances with crazy lives. I also watch Intervention which has given me insight to very troubled and in many cases broken people. They can be rebuilt if put in the right environment. I don’t have to invent back-story, real people have lived it. I just borrow it.
BbPNR-I was really happy to find your new book due out May 25th Enemy Lover, would you tell us some about the book?
Karin-I’m really happy you found ENEMY LOVER too! I loved writing Jax and Marcus’s story. Both very damaged, and flawed characters who, like the mystical Phoenix in the L.O.S.T. seal, rise from the ashes of their former selves to bigger, better, and badder selves. At times I wasn’t sure how those two were going to end up with their HEA they had so much to work through. But love triumphs in the end.
But I digress, L.O.S.T, Last Option Special Team is called in when all other law enforcement avenues have been exhausted. L.O.S.T. operatives are themselves rogue cops on their way to prison or on the verge of being fired for breaking the law. They are extracted given the option of joining the team or returning their prison cells. Once a part of L.O.S.T. they are themselves, lost. Erased and reborn. All connections to their former lives are severed. L.O.S.T. rebuilds them. Their motto is Semper Invictus, always invincible.
Here’s a blurb:
It’s Jax Cassidy’s first mission for L.O.S.T.—one that will give the former cop who went rogue a chance to prove herself. Her assignment: gain the trust of assassin Marcus Cross . . . eliminate him . . . then take down Marcus’s mentor, Joseph Lazarus, a man with a bold eye on the White House. But the woman who’s known by her team for being a femme fatale succumbs to passion, only to discover Cross’s deadly secret. He’s a vampire, and Joseph Lazarus is his creator.
Left for dead by his platoon in the violent hills of Afghanistan, special ops sniper Marcus Cross was given a second chance at life. His newly heightened skills make him the perfect killing machine, and as Lazarus's right hand man, he’s quickly rising to the top of his dark empire, purging enemies with speed and precision. Only when dangerous beauty Jax Cassidy is sent to bring him in does he begin to question Lazarus’s motives and his own actions. But when Jax’s life is threatened by the one thing that can destroy them both, Marcus must make a bitter choice—her death or his.
With Enemy Lover being the first book in L.O.S.T series, can you give us a preview on what may be next? Book two, working title LOST SOULS, features L.O.S.T. operative Nikko Cruz. Nikko has serious trust issues with women that stem from his youth and are horribly reinforced as a young man. He’s dark, moody and wants only one thing from a woman: sexual release. His mission is to infiltrate half daemon Selena Veracruz’s dark underworld in Miami’s hot bed of sex, drugs and celebrity, South Beach, and extract a rogue senator who is not what her constituents think she is. It’s dark, intense, full of action and sexy as hell. The chemistry between Nikko and Selena sizzles.
BbPNR-I love the seal that you have created for the L.O.S.T series, can you tell us more about it?
Karin- Well, the premise I sold this series on was The Dirty Dozen meets Mission Impossible with a paranormal twist. And as I mentioned earlier the L.O.S.T. operatives must rise for the ashes of their former lives and be reborn. What better reminder than the rise of the fiery Phoenix? My designer Jody Werner and I spent a lot of time getting the seal just right. Once the black and white seal was complete, we had the task of working on the colors. I can’t tell you how many color combinations we worked on. The final is really a work of art. I’m really proud of it.
Speaking of the L.OS.T. seal, I have a fabulous L.O.S.T mug to giveaway to a lucky commenter today!
Thank you again, Laurie for having me as your guest today!
Harlow
Please Visit Karin website to learn more.
Thank you, Laurie for inviting me to Bitten by Paranormal Romance today!
BbPNR-Karin, would you please tell us a little about yourself?
Karin- I live in sunny California and I’m very happily married to a retired cop, who is always more than happy to help with action or procedural scenes. He’s a total alpha in all the good ways and even a couple of naughty ways, but he’s cute and means well, so it’s ok. I’ve been writing since I was in high school. I love to read tempestuous stories with passionate flawed characters. It’s also what I write.
BbPNR-Do you have a favorite hobby?
Karin-Writing used to be a hobby, now it’s my full time job, a job I love! I enjoy wine and taking trips to the California wine regions, which are many. I love to cook too and garden. My yard is overflowing with blooms.
BbPNR-What kind of books do you like to read when you have time?
Karin- I’m not genre picky, what I love to read are layered character driven stories. I’m a character nut. Plot is important to me, but I love reading the books where after I read the end I keep thinking of the protagonists. I love rereading old favorites.
BbPNR-Where do you find your inspiration for writing?
Karin- All around me. Life, my children, family, acquaintances with crazy lives. I also watch Intervention which has given me insight to very troubled and in many cases broken people. They can be rebuilt if put in the right environment. I don’t have to invent back-story, real people have lived it. I just borrow it.
BbPNR-I was really happy to find your new book due out May 25th Enemy Lover, would you tell us some about the book?
Karin-I’m really happy you found ENEMY LOVER too! I loved writing Jax and Marcus’s story. Both very damaged, and flawed characters who, like the mystical Phoenix in the L.O.S.T. seal, rise from the ashes of their former selves to bigger, better, and badder selves. At times I wasn’t sure how those two were going to end up with their HEA they had so much to work through. But love triumphs in the end.
But I digress, L.O.S.T, Last Option Special Team is called in when all other law enforcement avenues have been exhausted. L.O.S.T. operatives are themselves rogue cops on their way to prison or on the verge of being fired for breaking the law. They are extracted given the option of joining the team or returning their prison cells. Once a part of L.O.S.T. they are themselves, lost. Erased and reborn. All connections to their former lives are severed. L.O.S.T. rebuilds them. Their motto is Semper Invictus, always invincible.
Here’s a blurb:
It’s Jax Cassidy’s first mission for L.O.S.T.—one that will give the former cop who went rogue a chance to prove herself. Her assignment: gain the trust of assassin Marcus Cross . . . eliminate him . . . then take down Marcus’s mentor, Joseph Lazarus, a man with a bold eye on the White House. But the woman who’s known by her team for being a femme fatale succumbs to passion, only to discover Cross’s deadly secret. He’s a vampire, and Joseph Lazarus is his creator.
Left for dead by his platoon in the violent hills of Afghanistan, special ops sniper Marcus Cross was given a second chance at life. His newly heightened skills make him the perfect killing machine, and as Lazarus's right hand man, he’s quickly rising to the top of his dark empire, purging enemies with speed and precision. Only when dangerous beauty Jax Cassidy is sent to bring him in does he begin to question Lazarus’s motives and his own actions. But when Jax’s life is threatened by the one thing that can destroy them both, Marcus must make a bitter choice—her death or his.
With Enemy Lover being the first book in L.O.S.T series, can you give us a preview on what may be next? Book two, working title LOST SOULS, features L.O.S.T. operative Nikko Cruz. Nikko has serious trust issues with women that stem from his youth and are horribly reinforced as a young man. He’s dark, moody and wants only one thing from a woman: sexual release. His mission is to infiltrate half daemon Selena Veracruz’s dark underworld in Miami’s hot bed of sex, drugs and celebrity, South Beach, and extract a rogue senator who is not what her constituents think she is. It’s dark, intense, full of action and sexy as hell. The chemistry between Nikko and Selena sizzles.
BbPNR-I love the seal that you have created for the L.O.S.T series, can you tell us more about it?
Karin- Well, the premise I sold this series on was The Dirty Dozen meets Mission Impossible with a paranormal twist. And as I mentioned earlier the L.O.S.T. operatives must rise for the ashes of their former lives and be reborn. What better reminder than the rise of the fiery Phoenix? My designer Jody Werner and I spent a lot of time getting the seal just right. Once the black and white seal was complete, we had the task of working on the colors. I can’t tell you how many color combinations we worked on. The final is really a work of art. I’m really proud of it.
Speaking of the L.OS.T. seal, I have a fabulous L.O.S.T mug to giveaway to a lucky commenter today!
Thank you again, Laurie for having me as your guest today!
Harlow
Please Visit Karin website to learn more.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Winner of autographed Into the Dark Gena Showalter book number 1
Thanks to everyone that entered. I have a winner congrats to Martha! I hope you enjoy your book.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Review Black Ice by Anna Stuart
Black Ice- Book one of the Ice series
Author Anna Stuart
Romantic suspense
Authors website
Book description
The job was a killer.
Living paycheck to paycheck in Paris, American book translator Chloe Underwood would give anything for some excitement and passion -- even a little danger. So when she's offered a lucrative weekend gig translating at a business conference in a remote chateau, she jumps at the chance to shake things up.
Then by chance Chloe discovers her employers are anything but the entrepreneurs they appear, and suddenly she knows far too much. Her clients are illegal arms dealers, and one of them is ordered to kill her. But instead, Bastien Toussaint drags Chloe away, and the next thing she knows she's on the run with the most terrifying and seductive man she's ever met. What were his motives -- and would she live long enough to find out?
Laurie review
Rating-
Sexual-
Before I start I would like to say these men are not easy they are hard killers so keep this in mind if you try these books you wont find no cuddling in here.
This is a good chilling to the bone read one that definitely keep you in suspense wanting to know what will happen next. I really liked Anne writing style, she makes it easy to follow and understand. Bastien is hard core male, he can kill anyone with out a second thought. I really liked Chloe, but when she makes a simple wish to have a little more sex and violence in her life, I say she gets more then she bargained for.. She also find out she is pretty tuff. When Bastien kills the man that is torturing Chloe his life is turned upside down by her, it takes him to a point that he cant even quit thinking about her after she is gone.
The only down side I myself found is. I would have like just a tad bit more romance you get one great sex seen the other two are just get it in and out as fast as you can. But over all the books is a exciting ride, I am glad I read it.
Author Anna Stuart
Romantic suspense
Authors website
Book description
The job was a killer.
Living paycheck to paycheck in Paris, American book translator Chloe Underwood would give anything for some excitement and passion -- even a little danger. So when she's offered a lucrative weekend gig translating at a business conference in a remote chateau, she jumps at the chance to shake things up.
Then by chance Chloe discovers her employers are anything but the entrepreneurs they appear, and suddenly she knows far too much. Her clients are illegal arms dealers, and one of them is ordered to kill her. But instead, Bastien Toussaint drags Chloe away, and the next thing she knows she's on the run with the most terrifying and seductive man she's ever met. What were his motives -- and would she live long enough to find out?
Laurie review
Rating-
Sexual-
Before I start I would like to say these men are not easy they are hard killers so keep this in mind if you try these books you wont find no cuddling in here.
This is a good chilling to the bone read one that definitely keep you in suspense wanting to know what will happen next. I really liked Anne writing style, she makes it easy to follow and understand. Bastien is hard core male, he can kill anyone with out a second thought. I really liked Chloe, but when she makes a simple wish to have a little more sex and violence in her life, I say she gets more then she bargained for.. She also find out she is pretty tuff. When Bastien kills the man that is torturing Chloe his life is turned upside down by her, it takes him to a point that he cant even quit thinking about her after she is gone.
The only down side I myself found is. I would have like just a tad bit more romance you get one great sex seen the other two are just get it in and out as fast as you can. But over all the books is a exciting ride, I am glad I read it.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Pictures from J.R. Wards book signing
First off its Mother's Day, so I want to say happy Mother's day to all of you out there and I hope you enjoy the pictures of J.R. Ward today.
OMG! You should have been there or maybe you were;) I have never seen so many people in my life in a little book store. With so many people we had to limit or books being signed, but I was able thanks to Cathy, to get Lover Avenged autographed for the next giveaway of Blogmania. If I don't get accepted for Blogmania Cathy wants me to put it in a weekly giveaway for the blog.
I had so much fun with Stacey and there was quite a few form the Bloodlust club that also drove up and of course you always meet new people at a great book signing. I will add a few pictures of people just standing around us and I have some of just the whole store with people standing around waiting to see J.R. They also had cake I have a picture of that. But its not the whole cake its what was left by the time we got there. I have to say I was tired of standing, Stacey bought our books and got us in B line I feel for the people what was in the E line they had the longest wait. If you ever go to this make sure you buy a book form the store and the earlier the better that way you may get a seat or at least not stand so long.
If you ever have the chance please go to one of her books signings they are so much fun and its all because J.R. makes it fun. She lets you ask any kind of questions. With Wards trucker mouth and her I give just about anything out about my books makes you want to come back and yes, I have lots to tell, but sad to say when J.R. comes out she tells you what she lets out she doesn't want it out on the Internet, so I will not say one word.
Now as soon as I can get with Cathy she has some pictures of Jacquelyn Frank book signing that was here in Lebanon, I will post them. She also was able to get a book singed for a weekly giveaway here for the blog so that one will be coming up soon.
If you can see in the corner standing closest to the door by the man in black you'll see J.R. Wards mother.
This was our line B
OMG! You should have been there or maybe you were;) I have never seen so many people in my life in a little book store. With so many people we had to limit or books being signed, but I was able thanks to Cathy, to get Lover Avenged autographed for the next giveaway of Blogmania. If I don't get accepted for Blogmania Cathy wants me to put it in a weekly giveaway for the blog.
I had so much fun with Stacey and there was quite a few form the Bloodlust club that also drove up and of course you always meet new people at a great book signing. I will add a few pictures of people just standing around us and I have some of just the whole store with people standing around waiting to see J.R. They also had cake I have a picture of that. But its not the whole cake its what was left by the time we got there. I have to say I was tired of standing, Stacey bought our books and got us in B line I feel for the people what was in the E line they had the longest wait. If you ever go to this make sure you buy a book form the store and the earlier the better that way you may get a seat or at least not stand so long.
If you ever have the chance please go to one of her books signings they are so much fun and its all because J.R. makes it fun. She lets you ask any kind of questions. With Wards trucker mouth and her I give just about anything out about my books makes you want to come back and yes, I have lots to tell, but sad to say when J.R. comes out she tells you what she lets out she doesn't want it out on the Internet, so I will not say one word.
Now as soon as I can get with Cathy she has some pictures of Jacquelyn Frank book signing that was here in Lebanon, I will post them. She also was able to get a book singed for a weekly giveaway here for the blog so that one will be coming up soon.
If you can see in the corner standing closest to the door by the man in black you'll see J.R. Wards mother.
This was our line B
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Review Delicious by Shayla Black
Delicious book three in Wicked Lovers
Author Shayla Black
Erotic romance
Trade Paperback 384
authors website
Book description
He can’t control his desire. Luc Traverson’s entire future is planned out—but there is one very sexy obstacle in his path: Alyssa Devereaux . She’s a former exotic dancer turned strip club owner and restaurateur. Recently, Alyssa and Luc shared one night of wild abandon that left Luc terrified by his loss of self-control—and Alyssa desperate for more.
And that’s just the way she wants it.
Fulfilling a promise, Luc is the guest chef for Alyssa’s restaurant debut. The sight of her makes Luc wild, so how can he survive a week without letting loose and ravaging her—especially when she’s begging for it? Luc’s desire for her explodes when he realizes he isn’t the only man desperate to have her. But one of the others is deadly. And that’s not the end of Alyssa’s secrets…which are as dark and mysterious and enticing as her fantasies.
Laurie review
Rating-
Sexual-
This is a book your either going to love or hate. The biggest reason is because of Luc. He seems to be a butt to some that reads this book, but I looked at what was happening between both Luc and Alyssa and she did cause Luc to be a butt a lot. so here is what I thought of this book.
If your one that likes a love, hate, on again off again relationship, with suspense this could be for you. To tell you the truth, I don’t normally get into these love hate relationship, but this one I couldn’t put it down. The thing that kept me going was it was so full of emotions. At times I couldn’t stand either one Luc or Alyssa then at times I really liked them. This is how it would go, as soon as they were able to stand each other and everything looking good then Luc with his jealousy would tare them apart. Then there were times when everything was good between them and Alyssa would share her past life with Luc all you could do is cry because it was so sad. It is a roller coaster between the two that for sure.
The whole time all of this on again and off again is going on, some men are after Alyssa and she is stalked, house and work broke into and hate messages left for her and almost raped this was a roller coaster itself trying to figure out who and why they were doing it. You also get to see characters form the first two books as they join in to help.
Just a word of caution here, Luc at one point gets a little to rough with Alyssa she keeps telling him no and he doesn’t get the picture he is so tied up into the jealousy about Tyler he thinks sex is the only way to stop her for seeing Tyler, but he never rapes her, after this happens Alyssa shares with Luc what happened to her at fifteen years of age.
Here is more with Spoilers!
Alyssa set the stage up to win back Luc. So what she does is has him come to be a guest chef for the week at her new restaurant, she even pays the hotel guy off so Luc doesn’t have a room just so he can stay at her house, you know what she has planned. In the mean time Luc has a secret, he can’t have kids, so when he agrees to stay with Alyssa he has unprotected sex and guess what? she becomes Prego. In between him accusing her of seeing Tyler her bodyguard, which I have to say she should have picked him and got all of this on again and off again jealousy thing done with Luc, but she knows who the kid belongs to and is in love with, so she wont do that. Alyssa is no whore even though Luc keeps pretty much telling her she is. But what you also have to look at is Alyssa is a strip club owner/operator, so you know what is put in our minds even thou Alyssa isn’t sleeping around it still there and this is why Luc keeps it on his mind that she is sleeping with Tyler plus a few other things she dose with Tyler.
(I’m fast forward a bit here) As time goes on and Alyssa ends up in the hospital Kimberly tells Alyssa Luc secret that he can’t have kids, while she is telling her this Alyssa really feels betrayed and again she kicks Luc out of this house! You have to be in the right mood to read this book.
Its best to read this series in order.
1.Wicked Ties
2.Decadent
3.Delicious
Author Shayla Black
Erotic romance
Trade Paperback 384
authors website
Book description
He can’t control his desire. Luc Traverson’s entire future is planned out—but there is one very sexy obstacle in his path: Alyssa Devereaux . She’s a former exotic dancer turned strip club owner and restaurateur. Recently, Alyssa and Luc shared one night of wild abandon that left Luc terrified by his loss of self-control—and Alyssa desperate for more.
And that’s just the way she wants it.
Fulfilling a promise, Luc is the guest chef for Alyssa’s restaurant debut. The sight of her makes Luc wild, so how can he survive a week without letting loose and ravaging her—especially when she’s begging for it? Luc’s desire for her explodes when he realizes he isn’t the only man desperate to have her. But one of the others is deadly. And that’s not the end of Alyssa’s secrets…which are as dark and mysterious and enticing as her fantasies.
Laurie review
Rating-
Sexual-
This is a book your either going to love or hate. The biggest reason is because of Luc. He seems to be a butt to some that reads this book, but I looked at what was happening between both Luc and Alyssa and she did cause Luc to be a butt a lot. so here is what I thought of this book.
If your one that likes a love, hate, on again off again relationship, with suspense this could be for you. To tell you the truth, I don’t normally get into these love hate relationship, but this one I couldn’t put it down. The thing that kept me going was it was so full of emotions. At times I couldn’t stand either one Luc or Alyssa then at times I really liked them. This is how it would go, as soon as they were able to stand each other and everything looking good then Luc with his jealousy would tare them apart. Then there were times when everything was good between them and Alyssa would share her past life with Luc all you could do is cry because it was so sad. It is a roller coaster between the two that for sure.
The whole time all of this on again and off again is going on, some men are after Alyssa and she is stalked, house and work broke into and hate messages left for her and almost raped this was a roller coaster itself trying to figure out who and why they were doing it. You also get to see characters form the first two books as they join in to help.
Just a word of caution here, Luc at one point gets a little to rough with Alyssa she keeps telling him no and he doesn’t get the picture he is so tied up into the jealousy about Tyler he thinks sex is the only way to stop her for seeing Tyler, but he never rapes her, after this happens Alyssa shares with Luc what happened to her at fifteen years of age.
Here is more with Spoilers!
Alyssa set the stage up to win back Luc. So what she does is has him come to be a guest chef for the week at her new restaurant, she even pays the hotel guy off so Luc doesn’t have a room just so he can stay at her house, you know what she has planned. In the mean time Luc has a secret, he can’t have kids, so when he agrees to stay with Alyssa he has unprotected sex and guess what? she becomes Prego. In between him accusing her of seeing Tyler her bodyguard, which I have to say she should have picked him and got all of this on again and off again jealousy thing done with Luc, but she knows who the kid belongs to and is in love with, so she wont do that. Alyssa is no whore even though Luc keeps pretty much telling her she is. But what you also have to look at is Alyssa is a strip club owner/operator, so you know what is put in our minds even thou Alyssa isn’t sleeping around it still there and this is why Luc keeps it on his mind that she is sleeping with Tyler plus a few other things she dose with Tyler.
(I’m fast forward a bit here) As time goes on and Alyssa ends up in the hospital Kimberly tells Alyssa Luc secret that he can’t have kids, while she is telling her this Alyssa really feels betrayed and again she kicks Luc out of this house! You have to be in the right mood to read this book.
Its best to read this series in order.
1.Wicked Ties
2.Decadent
3.Delicious
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Review Eternal Hunter by Cynthia Eden
Eternal Hunter book one in Night Watch
Author Cynthia Eden
Paranormal romance- Shape-shifter
Trade paperback 338 pgs
Book Description
Assistant DA Erin Jerome has a secret. Make that two. One: She's not entirely human-she's Other, desperately trying to keep her supernatural strength under wraps. Two: she's got a killer stalking her-an Other rogue set on "gifting" her bloody corpses, not to mention nights lying awake in terror. Small wonder she's been having bad luck with men.
But the bounty hunter on her new case isn't worried about any of that. Jude Donovan is a shapeshifter himself, and the new DA's midnight hair and addictive scent tell him all he thinks he needs to know: She's gorgeous, she's definitely not human, and she's bringing out the animal in him in a really good way. He might have to track a psychotic Other stalker through half of Louisiana. But he might also get the chance to watch Erin's wild side come out and play.
Laurie's reivew
Rating-
Sexual
Another great read by Eden. I just love shape shifters, especially when they are hot dangers white tigers, yummy! I really like the bounty hunter storyline, it was really refreshing to me. This one has action, fast hot sex, shape-shifter fighting, and a great mystery.
Few Spoilers
Before I start I have to say, Erin has a huge problem, she has a sick psychopath that thinks he’s is her mate and he either hurts or kills anyone who even breath wrong towards her. Erin even moved hopping he wouldn’t find her. This made for a good mystery, I never picked up on who it is was until I read the name. Needless to say I was shocked.
Erin meets Jude when he captures low life bail skipper Bobby Burrows and brings him in. With Erin being a hybrid she knows Jude is a shape shifter right off the bat and feels something toward him. That night while good old Bobby was in jail, he is slathered. So both Erin and Jude meets up again trying to find out what happened to Bobby. They both know that the only thing that could rip Bobby apart is another shifter, but either one of them smelled another shifter. Hum could it be a human? You have to read and find out I am not telling. lol. When Erin goes home that night she finds her psychopath had found her and left her a calling card in her home to let her know he was there, it was message on her wall and written in blood. Erin calls and asks Jude to come over, before the cops (so you know who is on her mind;) and form there they have to find and stop the one responsible for the killings. They both carries secrets from their past that they have to over come in order to be together.
Author Cynthia Eden
Paranormal romance- Shape-shifter
Trade paperback 338 pgs
Book Description
Assistant DA Erin Jerome has a secret. Make that two. One: She's not entirely human-she's Other, desperately trying to keep her supernatural strength under wraps. Two: she's got a killer stalking her-an Other rogue set on "gifting" her bloody corpses, not to mention nights lying awake in terror. Small wonder she's been having bad luck with men.
But the bounty hunter on her new case isn't worried about any of that. Jude Donovan is a shapeshifter himself, and the new DA's midnight hair and addictive scent tell him all he thinks he needs to know: She's gorgeous, she's definitely not human, and she's bringing out the animal in him in a really good way. He might have to track a psychotic Other stalker through half of Louisiana. But he might also get the chance to watch Erin's wild side come out and play.
Laurie's reivew
Rating-
Sexual
Another great read by Eden. I just love shape shifters, especially when they are hot dangers white tigers, yummy! I really like the bounty hunter storyline, it was really refreshing to me. This one has action, fast hot sex, shape-shifter fighting, and a great mystery.
Few Spoilers
Before I start I have to say, Erin has a huge problem, she has a sick psychopath that thinks he’s is her mate and he either hurts or kills anyone who even breath wrong towards her. Erin even moved hopping he wouldn’t find her. This made for a good mystery, I never picked up on who it is was until I read the name. Needless to say I was shocked.
Erin meets Jude when he captures low life bail skipper Bobby Burrows and brings him in. With Erin being a hybrid she knows Jude is a shape shifter right off the bat and feels something toward him. That night while good old Bobby was in jail, he is slathered. So both Erin and Jude meets up again trying to find out what happened to Bobby. They both know that the only thing that could rip Bobby apart is another shifter, but either one of them smelled another shifter. Hum could it be a human? You have to read and find out I am not telling. lol. When Erin goes home that night she finds her psychopath had found her and left her a calling card in her home to let her know he was there, it was message on her wall and written in blood. Erin calls and asks Jude to come over, before the cops (so you know who is on her mind;) and form there they have to find and stop the one responsible for the killings. They both carries secrets from their past that they have to over come in order to be together.
Monday, May 3, 2010
May's topic/discussion post
Our topic/discussion for the month of May is: Compare between Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy which one do you like best and why?
The biggest reason I like PNR over UF is at the end there is the happy ever after, so there is no guess work (I hate guess work;)in who is she going to be with next time or will they still even be alive. Then there is the sex yep I have to have it;) and most UF either doesnt have sex in them or there is a little, I really dont mind a little just as long as the rest of the book has quite a bit of action. My favorite PNR series is Dark-Hunters by Sherillyn Kenyon
I really like the darker side to the UF. Plus you get more of women in action roles. My favorite so far is by Diana Rowland, Kara Gillian series
My thing is I hate to try UF because I find they do have one guy they the next book they have another guy or at least the ones I've tried. If you are huge UF fan and know of books that they are with the same partner through out the whole series and would like to let me know, please do. I would love to read them.
So whats you take on this? Do you like PNR better then UR or the other way around or do like both the about the same?
Do you have a favorite PNR series? Do you have a favorite UF series?
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Traveling home
Hi everybody! I'm on the road and trying to post using my iPhone so if it looks weird you'll have to tell me. I've never done a post like this before, but if it's clear than I can post more often like this to you all. So hey I am so tired of rain. I feel like a wrinkled up raisin. Yuck! It's not just the rain it's the sound if the rain. Usually I love the sound of the rain, but I just want it to be quiet and sunny! Is that too much to ask? Haha. It's worse for Laurie though, she is stuck at home in Lebanon. At least I got out and my husband and I headed back to Louisville. It's bad out here guys. Seriously I feel bad for everyone that lives in the area or that's just plain being affected by this weather right now and I hear it's not over yet.
I posted some pictures on my facebook. If you guys want to see them hop on over there and leave me a comment too! I like to know that you all care! Haha! Alright time to read while I'm in the car. Talk to you soon!
Facebook page
I posted some pictures on my facebook. If you guys want to see them hop on over there and leave me a comment too! I like to know that you all care! Haha! Alright time to read while I'm in the car. Talk to you soon!
Facebook page
This is what my town's squre look like last night its worse today
Its a mess:( and we are still getting more rain.
Today
Just found this one
Today
Just found this one
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Gena Showalter book signing
First off I want to think Gena for coming and Sherlock's bookstore for inviting her. It was a mess here today with all the flooding, storms and tornado warnings, I myself was soaked! A lot of the town was flooded and closed off. So I know there was a lot of people that didn't show up because of it. I know Stacey will add a post about what she thought about the book singing.Stacey's camera's battery went out, so my daughter took all the pictures for us and I will add a few to this post. I really wished I had a little more time with Stacey but the weather was so bad it just wasn't possible. I hope next weekend while we are at J.R Wards signing we will have more time.
I had a blast with Stacey and lunch with Gena was something I will never forget. Gena let us ask her questions she was so nice and shy;) and OMG she is beautiful, if you ever get a chance please go and see her. I will post the first Into the Dark giveaway book in the morning
I loved how the display table was done:)
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