Books Read for August 2009 and the Woes of the DNF Pile

Here are all books I have read this month. It was filled with the most DNFs I ever had this year.

1. Queen of Song and Souls by C.L. Wilson- B+
2. The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leanna Renee Hieber- B+
3. Beyond the Rain by Jess Granger- B
4. Set the Dark on Fire by Jill Sorenson- B
5. Sleepless in Scotland by Karen Hawkins- B

6. Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble- B
7. With Seduction in Mind by Laura Lee Guhrke- B
8. Tempted At Midnight by Jacquie D’ Alessandro- B-
9. Devil in My Bed by Celeste Bradley- B-
10. The Most Wicked of Sins by Kathryn Caskie- B-
11. Moon Shell Beach by Nancy Thayer- C+
12. To Catch a Bride by Anne Grace- C
13. Kissing Midnight by Emma Holly- C
14. Spider-Touched by Jory Strong- DNF
15. Haunting Beauty by Erin Quinn- DNF
16. The Conqueror by Kris Kennedy- DNF
17. Intertwined by Gena Showalter- DNF
18. Cold Moon Rising by C.T. Adams & Cathy Camp- DNF

Grades:
A = 0
B+ = 2
B thru B- = 8
C+ thru C- = 3
D and lower = 5

I have to admit I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately. :(

Now be amazed by my TBR bookshelf! It is still overflowing:



Mho is excited to finally read Suzanne Collins. Also there will be an awesome contest here tomorrow where you will have your chance to win Catching Fire and other great prizes!

There is also some great buzz for Gail Carriger and her October release from Orbit called Soulless. If you haven't seen Gail's website, please check it out. It is a very witty and eccentric.

Because Mho has been so busy making various appearances around the blogsphere, D.D. has taken over the monthly community reading group. D.D. has decided to officially start the buzz for Meljean Brook's next book in her Guardian series, Demon Forged that comes out in October. To celebrate D.D. and the crew will be reading Meljean's Guardian backlist.

.

As you can see, Demon Angel is missing. I believe Mho has stolen it. I hope he isn't chewing on it. For some reason one of my pillows has been torn apart and all the feathers are missing. Knowing Mho, he is making angel wings for himself. Heaven will never be the same if Mho goes for a visit!

Mho has also read Demon Forged. It's the one book he can't stop raving about! I think he has a crush on Irena. She has this way of creating statues that move and will do naughty things. What things you ask? Heh heh...

.

Meljean has posted an awesome Guardian Timeline that clears up a lot of questions you my have. Go check it out!

How was your reading this month? Any winning books you can recommend?

The Strangely Beautiful Haunted London Blog Tour

Mho Fho: Yo, listen up my lovely fans far and wide! Have I got a treat for you! Today the sexy, wonderful and very talented Leanna Renee Hieber has stopped by here on her haunted blog tour! Ever since the Percy Parker book and I had a great night of... reading together... yeah... this book is one I can't stop talking about to anyone who will listen. And everyone should listen to what I have to say because I am a king and a demon. Demon kings are meant to be obeyed.

Not that my praising has anything to do with my fancy new outfit that Leanna gave me. *Fixes sexy cravat that has all the women wanting to rub up against my wooly bottom*

From the back cover:
"What fortune awaited sweet, timid Percy Parker at Athens Academy? Considering how few of Queen Victoria’s Londoners knew of it, the great Romanesque fortress was dreadfully imposing, and little could Percy guess what lay inside. She had never met the powerful and mysterious Professor Alexi Rychman, knew nothing of the growing shadow, the Ripper and other supernatural terrors against which his coterie stood guard. She knew simply that she was different, haunted, with her snow-white hair, pearlescent skin and uncanny gifts. But this arched stone doorway offered a portal to a new life, an education far from the convent—and an invitation to an intimate yet dangerous dance at the threshold of life and death…"

Welcome all to The Strangely Beautiful Haunted London Blog Tour day 9!

Thanks, Kate, for allowing me to roll this Haunted Train into your station today, I'm very thrilled to be here. I hope I don't scare Mho too terribly. I know he's tough, but when it comes to a good ghost story, even a Demon Sheep might get the shivers.

Today we're haunted by another Jack the Ripper victim – Annie Chapman

For those of you just joining us, the purpose of this Tour is to celebrate the release of my Gothic Victorian fantasy debut, The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker. I’ll introduce you to some of the real, documented London haunts who “ghost-star” in my book. When Professor Alexi Rychman and his Guard of spectral police make their rounds, it is to any number of London phantasms. Since these characters are familiar to The Guard, I don’t get to tell their full story in the book. But here I can give them their due. Leave a comment and you’ll be entered to win a signed copy of the novel, first in the Strangely Beautiful series!

Annie Chapman and her sad end on Hanbury Street, E1.

At 6 in the morning on September 8th, 1888, Annie Chapman was discovered dead in the backyard of 29 Hanbury street. She was Jack the Ripper’s second victim. The Truman Brewery was later built over the site and when the brewery was in operation it was said a mysterious chill would creep through the boardroom at the exact time and anniversary of Ms. Chapman’s death. Her spirit was sometimes seen standing by the storeroom. The storeroom happened to be atop the very spot where she had died such a horrid death.

Here’s how I set the scene in The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker:

Blood was everywhere, drenching the dirty stones of Hanbury Street, flooding the gutter below a wooden gate. A bleary-eyed crowd, growing despite the ungodly hour of the morning, gazed down in horror at the mangled corpse. Constables and a haggard investigator crawled the scene like insects; real flies buzzed alongside. Rumours and shrieks filled the air, and the word “Ripper” was on everyone’s lips.

A lean, severe woman stood just beyond the horrified East End crowd. Her brown hair was pinned tightly beneath a simple touring hat, save for one renegade lock, and Rebecca Thompson folded her arms and gazed down at the scene from the steps of an adjacent tenement. At her elbow was the usual tall, formidable man in a long black greatcoat, and he tipped his top hat and squinted upward, his mop of dark hair rustling in the breeze.

“My God, Alexi,” Rebecca murmured, brushing her gloved hand across his forearm before resting it again upon the buttons of her sleeve. “Darkly Luminous work this must have been, to have produced such an effect.” She shuddered. “Is this a sign of something new?”

A distracted hum was his only reply.

“Alexi, are you listening?”

“There are gargoyles atop this shabby roof. How odd,” Alexi mused. “Yet they neglected their sole duty—to deter whatever demon struck here. Poor girl. Poor dead girl.”

“You’re not listening to me.”

“I always listen, Rebecca.” He turned dark eyes to hers, and his sculpted lips softened into a slight smile; a rare occurrence. “It indeed may be a sign. But we cannot know for sure until this”—he gestured grimly toward the body—”is added to something more substantial. Until we see all that was foretold.”

--- (End of Excerpt)

I’m indebted to Richard Jones, founder of the fabulous Discovery Walks of London and author of the fantastic compendium “Haunted London” and “Walking Haunted London” published by Barnes & Noble Books, a main resource for my research. Visit him at www.haunted-london.com. Come visit me at www.leannareneehieber.com to find out more about The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker and follow along on the rest of the Haunted London Blog tour! I hope you’ll also pick up the book and love it as much as I loved writing it!

.

Be sure to comment here so you can be entered to win a signed copy! You have till Weds. 9/2 for your chance to win!

Blessings!

Leanna Renee Hieber
www.leannareneehieber.com
www.twitter.com/leannarenee

**CONTEST IS CLOSED**

The Men Who Stare At Goats

This title should win the award for the Lamest Movie Title this year.

Synopsis:
A reporter, trying to lose himself in the romance of war after his marriage fails, gets more than he bargains for when he meets a special forces agent who reveals the existence of a secret, psychic military unit whose goal is to end war as we know it. The founder of the unit has gone missing and the trail leads to another psychic soldier who has distorted the mission to serve his own ends

From watching the trailer, this movie looks pretty funny and it has a pretty great cast with George Clooney, Ewan McGregor and Kevin Spacey.

I would see George in anything even if he did stare at goats throughout the whole movie.

But government psychic warriors??? **scratches head**

Watch the trailer and you decide if the movie is worth the price of admission.

*Still shaking head over title*

Historical Romance Review Round Up

Beauty Tempts the Beast by Leslie Dicken is an enjoyable gothic type romance with a brooding scarred hero, a heroine on the run from a man who wants to use her body in immoral ways and a monster who walks the dark halls at night who may or may not be our scarred hero.

Vivian Suttley needs Charles Hansard, Viscount Ashworth to marry her as soon as possible. Charles is known as The Monster because of being a recluse with a scarred face. You can say that not many women are waiting in line to marry him. Vivian doesn’t care what Charles looks like. She saw him before his hideous scarring and knows he is simply a man who is tormented inside. Charles makes Vivian’s virgin bits tingle and decides she will be the one woman to heal him. She fails to tell him that the reason she needs to marry him is that a nasty and amoral lord wants her and will stop at nothing until she is his.

No woman would want to take on The Monster. Charles cannot have a lovely young miss like Vivian in his life. She is too pure and wholesome for a wretched man like himself. He even goes as far as trying to scare Vivian but seducing her. That rogue! Vivian doesn’t mind these scare tactics and wants more of them, as long as there is a wedding ceremony in the future. Because Charles can’t deny his attraction to Vivian, he will allow her to stay for the time being. So what if her reputation will be in tatters because she is alone with no chaperon? He knows she is hiding something, and he will figure out what it is.

Everything is going swimmingly for Vivian and Charles, but then the woman Charles once loved comes back begging for his hand in marriage. Charles asks Vivian to pretend to be his fiancé, in order keep his money hungry former lover at bay. She would love nothing more for this mock engagement to become a reality. But time is running out because Vivian’s stalker knows where she is and will kill so no other man can have her.

Beauty Tempts the Beast is a dark, sweeping romance that is perfect for those readers who like suffering heroes. Charles grapples with his fears and the horrors of his past that has lead him to a life of seclusion. His whole world changes when Vivian enters his life. Watching him fall for Vivian adds to the complexity of this story and Leslie really does build up the attraction between Charles and Vivian. Their love scenes are smoldering and intense.

The mystery and intrigue makes this quite the page turner. There are many twists and turns and there is more than one villain here. Vivian is not the only one with an obsessed madman on her tail and because Charles has no clue who is trying to cause him grief, that leads to an ending that I didn’t see coming. Some readers may scratch their heads over it, but I give Leslie kudos for taking a chance. I will say that Leslie Dicken is one author to watch and I look forward to her next future release. (Buy at Samhain)

Final Grade: B

Celeste Bradley has a new historical romance series called The Runaway Brides. The first book, Devil in My Bed is so unrealistic and loopy. There is that “big misunderstanding” plot device and a cute little toddler who takes up many of the scenes she is in that may annoy. If you like your villains, who remind you of those old fashioned ones that twirl their mustaches and tie the poor woman to the railroad tracks, give this one a go.

Aidan de Quincy has never gotten over the widow he had a passionate, all consuming love affair with. Madeleine Chandler leaves him when he expresses his desire to marry her. Because Madeleine just wanted him for sex and not his name, he becomes bitter and heartbroken. How dare the woman blow his mind and his body with wonderful bed play and run away from him because he wanted to marry her Now three years later he still cannot forget the one woman who he gave his heart to, or rather the woman he is obsessed with. But this is quite alright because Aidan is the hero. While he is at the Brown’s Club for Distinguished Gentlemen, he notices a small child named Melody who is only three years old. Melody was left there by her mother who can’t support her anymore. Aidan knows this poor child’s father is not part of the club because most of the men are well past their prime to have a child. Aidan has no choice but to take care of this little girl until he can figure out who her father is.

Madeleine had to end her affair with Aidan because she is hiding from her husband who is an abusive psychopath. She pretends to be a widow and has kept hidden for three years. But the jig is up because a friend of her husband has spotted her. Aidan finds her once again and rescues her because he comes to the conclusion that she is Melody’s mother. He hides Madeline in his rooms. For some reason Madeleine doesn’t tell Aidan that he is mistaken, but he thinks she is a lying wench anyway, so what would be the point? Even though he thinks Madeleine is a lying, deceitful woman who broke his poor heart, he will get to the bottom of this so they can finally be together.

Madeleine’s psycho husband figures out she is in London and will make her pay. All she wants is her freedom and a future with Aidan and little Melody, but her lies and deceit have become too much to keep under control.

Devil in My Bed has some moments of comedic relief that are bound to make you groan more than laugh. I will say that Aidan and Madeleine are crazy for each other and there is one scene where they are playing hide and seek with Melody and hide in the wardrobe. Aidan’s hands go a wandering and Madeleine combusts into a puddle of mushy lust. Watching Aidan and Sir Colin Lambert, who also resides at the club, figure out how to take care of Melody is quite hilarious. These two reminded me of the movie, Three Men and a Baby.

I guess you could say this a screwball regency romp. The out of the blue scenes that are dark and full of tension come out of left field and just don’t fit. And again, the situation Aidan places himself in with Madeleine and Melody is a bit unbelievable. You will have to suspend your belief because the majority of the story is a bit fantastical. Fans of Celeste Bradley know what they are getting and if you have enjoyed her past work, I think you will feel the same way with Devil in My Bed. (St. Martin’s Press)

Final Grade: C+

The cover of With Seduction in Mind by Laura Lee Guhrke looks like the woman on it is pleasuring herself. That is probably the most shocking thing about this book. As for the story inside, I would say it was a pleasing one but didn’t have enough “oomph” where I can rave about it. But the setting is Victorian London 1896 (YAY) and Guhrke’s heroines are all on their own, making ends meet and don’t rely on a man to make them happy. (Double YAY) These Bachelor Girl books have a subtle feminist feel to them and Laura shows that a woman can have a career and find a man who will support her in her endeavors. The joy in reading is watching these men conform their way of thinking and lifestyle to the heroine’s and not the other way around.

Daisy Merrick is too feisty and outspoken and because of that she can’t keep a job. Daisy dreams of becoming a published author. She is sick of working for others and wants to have a job where she makes the decisions and doesn’t have to deal with men who disrespect her. She is able to find a job as a temporary reviewer for the Social Gazette. (Daisy is friends with the wife of the man who owns the paper). She reviews a play by the respected literary author, Sebastian Grant, Earl of Avermore. Daisy hates it and because of her scathing review, the play closes in a week. Sebastian is livid. He needs the money and the prestige because he has been out of the spotlight for so long. He has lost his writing muse because he has given up cocaine. He became an addict of the drug and now that he is recovering, he has lost his passion for the written word.

Because he has a contract where he has to deliver another book to his publisher, which coincidentally is owned by Lord Marlowe, the same man who runs the Social Gazette, he has no choice but to start writing again. Marlowe wants Daisy to assist Sebastian. This will help her become a better writer and push Sebastian into writing the book that is way past due. Sebastian is insulted, first because Daisy wrote that review and the fact that she can really find the problems with his writing. Sebastian has no choice and must accept Daisy’s help. But he is scared because what if she figures out that he is a hack and his masterful writing was all due to the drugs he took?

With Seduction in Mind had its moments I really enjoyed from the interactions between Daisy and Sebastian in the beginning where they seem to have a dislike for one another to where they talk about their literary aspirations. They are both able to see the truth about one another that lies deep inside. Daisy and Sebastian have doubts that almost consume them. The possibility of failure scares them both. Daisy is ashamed because she doesn’t want to disappoint her sister like the countless times she has done in the past. Sebastian’s need for acceptance is a bit deeper and because of it, he turns to Daisy for everything. She soon becomes his new drug that he wants to lose himself in.

Sebastian is tortured because of his addiction and lost of self. His constant pity party for became a bit too much at times. Daisy is very vocal with Sebastian and tells him to snap out of it. But it takes Sebastian too long to come to these conclusions about himself and that is where the story drags. Daisy and Sebastian’s attraction to one another was lukewarm and not the passionate coming together I would have liked to see.

With Seduction in Mind was simply okay. (Avon)

Final Grade: B-

Does Cursing in YA Books Rub You the Wrong Way?

Beware those who read this post, for there is some crude language used... I'm talking about the "f-word" and "c-word".

A few weeks ago I asked the question about cursing in YA novels on Twitter. The word in question was "fuck" and I wanted to know if people were uncomfortable with seeing a curse word, such as this, in books for children and teens, usually between the ages of 9-16. The majority seemed to be fine with it. I then asked if the word "cunt" was used would the same opinions apply?

Kati D from Katidom expressed her opinion about the subject at hand and recommended a post on our thoughts about the matter.

Kati D: A few weeks ago, Kate tweeted about her concern that a young adult book had incidents of the “f-word” being used in it. At the time, I was among several other folks who pretty much responded “meh, not a big deal” in reaction. Kate posed the question that at what point should concerns be raised over language or thematically adult concepts in young adult literature.

My response then, and it remains is that it is up to parents to monitor what their kids are reading. I will say, I’m not a parent, so of course, that makes me the best parent in the world (insert sarcasm), but it seems to me that if your kid is a voracious reader, as I was, it’s up to you to know what the books your kids are reading are about. I started reading romance very young. At eleven, I read Beverly Cleary’s Fifteen, which is the story of a girl basically wait for a boy she likes to ask her out. I immediately fell in love with the story. I moved on to the Sweet Valley High series, which my mother parceled out to me: one SVH book, one “real” book, as she called them. But then, the summer that I was twelve, while at the beach, I picked up Nora Roberts’ Irish Thoroughbred. And a romance reader was born. I was already a voracious reader, and romances were really easy to get a hold of. That week at the beach, I read seven books, all of them romances. The interesting part is that I think my mom knew I was reading romance, but really never commented on it, and certainly never discussed the books with me, which I think was probably a mistake. I remember at fourteen telling my best friend with great authority that when we lost our virginity, we should have the guy we were with be still after penetration so we could adjust to his great girth (heh). I learned that reading romance. Was it appropriate? Probably not. But it’s what I was reading at the time.

Today, I think that kids have a much broader array of relatable, appropriate books that speak to the issues kids are dealing with. I haven’t read a ton of YA, but I’ve read quite a bit in the last few months, and what I’ve read is smart, and sometimes dark, and doesn’t pull any punches. If the YA that is available now had been around when I was twelve and thirteen, I’d have been less inclined to steal my sister’s copy of Princess Daisy. Young Adult literature these days is a genre that is exploding with smartly written, nuanced books that tackle themes that are important for kids. Do I think kids will still be interested in reading stuff they’re not supposed to? Sure. It was ever thus. But in my opinion, it’s always been a parental responsibility to keep abreast of what their kids were reading, and to talk about the issues that are being raised in that reading.

KB: When I was a teen, the majority of YA books I read were Nancy Drew, Babysitters’ Club and Sweet Valley High. In those books there was never any questionable language that I could think of. Then I jumped straight into reading more adult books, mainly romance and horror. Again the details in those books were more the shocking acts such as sex or murder. I really can’t remember being appalled by the language used by the characters in these books.

This past year alone, I have been reading much more books whose audience is for children and teens between the ages 9-16 yrs. I always felt that YA books were more toned down or written in subtle ways when dealing with such subjects as sex and violence. This also includes language. When I read Lili St. Crow’s Strange Angels early this year about a sixteen-year-old girl fighting supernatural creatures, I was a bit shocked when she used the word, “fuck”. The same went after reading Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble, a soon to be released YA novel from Sourcebooks. The hero who looks eighteen, but is close to a century old because he is immortal, says, "This isn't a fucking game" to the heroine Anne because he is angry.

When I asked this question about cursing and language in these types of reads on twitter, the majority didn’t see any problem with it. Because teens use course language or hear it in everyday life, it isn’t a big deal. I tend to agree if say the teen is near high school or in high school. But to think a child as young as nine will read the word “fuck” in a young adult novel rubs me the wrong way.

Some subjects in these books are more for older teens. Sorry, a nine year old is not necessarily going to understand a book written for a high school audience. There is a big gap with a child being in 5th or 6th grade over a teen as a Junior or Senior in high school. Why is the age range for most young adult books between 9-16 years? Shouldn’t the age range be broken down more?

.
Again with the topic of language and cursing in young adult books, I then brought up the word “cunt”. What if that word was used instead of “fuck” in a book for the young audience? If the public at large doesn’t think “fuck” is all that bad, then what about “cunt?”

I agree with Kati D that parents should be aware of what their children are reading just as the music they listen to and the television shows and movies they watch. My cousin’s ten-year-old daughter has started reading Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series. Because my cousin is aware of the tone and subject matter of these books, she has begun to read them also, so she knows what her daughter is reading and if questions arise, they can talk about it together.

Books are a great way to pave the way of discussion and conversation between a parent and their child. I would hope that a parent would want to know what their children is reading and hopefully if there is certain language or acts that may raise a red flag, the parent would be open to expressing their concerns and keep this line of dialogue open.
.

Do you think cursing in YA books is a big thing? As a parent, how would you deal with your child reading a book that may have such words as "cunt" and "fuck" or other crude language?

My Heroine in Control Post at RNTV!

Have you heard about the week long heroine appreciation posts from the reviewers at Romance Novel TV? I am also a RNTV reviewer and my post is now up!

The heroine I chose is Jessica Trent from the much beloved historical romance Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase!
.

Excerpt from post:

When it came to deciding what heroine I wanted to spotlight for RNTV’s Heroine Appreciation Week I knew she had to be a woman that has made quite an impression on readers. I almost chose Scarlett O’Hara from Margaret Mitchell’s classic historical epic romance, Gone With the Wind. But then I thought about it. I have a true love/hate relationship with Scarlett. I admire her tenacity and drive to succeed, to know what she wants and to go for it regardless of the consequences. But because Scarlett is a spoiled, careless and a very selfish woman, I really couldn’t place her on a pedestal. But then it came to me. A heroine who has much of the same attributes Scarlett has, but none of the weaknesses and questions of character I have with Scarlett is Jessica Trent.

Hop on over to RNTV to see what I had to say about Jessica and why she is one of my all time favorite heroines in literature.

.

Do you agree that Jessica is a great heroine to admire?

Interview with Soren from Beyond the Rain

After reading Jess Granger's sci-fi romance, Beyond the Rain, I asked Jess if she could get in contact with Soren, the hero of the book. She said he would love to meet me and interview him for my blog. I quickly boarded a space flight to Brya, Soren's planet. Earthlings are very welcome there and a wonderful place to vacation if you ever have the chance.

Some of the questions asked are after the events of the the book, so a word of warning if you haven't read Beyond the Rain yet, there may be some spoilers...

KB: Hey Soren! Thanks for taking the time to chat with me. I know you have been busy on your honeymoon. How is it being mated?

Soren: It's a relief, overwhelming sometimes. I can't believe I'm home. Sometimes I have a hard time letting go and relaxing. I still have nightmares. I wake up and I don't know where I am, but Cyani is always there to center me again. Both of us like to sleep with the lights on. We can't take the dark.

KB: How do you and Cyani usually spend your days?

Soren: I've spent a lot of my time out in the garden reintroducing it to me. For as wonderful a job as my family did keeping it alive, I want it to be my personal expression of devotion again. So I'm tweaking things, rearranging the composition of some of the life webs. So far, everything is responding well, almost too well to my touch. I'm afraid there might be some residual damage to my system that is making me more potent than normal even after all this time. The plants are growing like crazy, and it seems like every silka in the fields is having triplets. Cyani is learning how to help keep our home alive, but the elders have taken an interest in her. She's now working with several council members developing a curriculum for hand to hand combat, and blade skills for Byra's young girls and for the waned. She's also sharing her knowledge of the politics of the outside with the council. I'm not sure how the Pyri would react to that if and when they find out, but so far, they haven't seemed too interested. She's like a stone that has been thrown into our little pond. Nothing seems still. Byra as a whole will be stronger, fiercer, and better able to defend herself from another Garulen attack. Our planet needs her, and I'm so glad she's here. I'm proud of her.

KB: Has Cyani adjusting to being mated with you? I heard she has it rough, especially coming from a culture where showing emotion and being touched is wrong.

Soren: She has her prickly moments. *He smiles* She still isn't quite comfortable with others touching her, though doesn't seem to have a problem if I touch her. If anything, she tends to get irritable when I go too long without touching her. Unfortunately, my people aren't used to her fixed eye color, and aren't very good at reading her body language. She's handled their lack of awareness of her body space with grace. One of the greatest joys of my life is watching her warmth and humor blossom. She's finally bloomed, and I can't breathe when I look at her.

KB: What did you think when you first saw Cyani?

Soren: I don't know. I could barely comprehend what was going on. I was sick with the tranquilizers from my bands. She didn't seem real to me. The irony is, she still doesn't seem real to me. I wonder sometimes why she risked so much to save me. I don't think it's a question she can answer. I'm glad the soldier I first saw when my blinders were removed was a compassionate and feeling woman beneath that hard armor.

KB: The last few years have been very hard for you. Can you tell us what happened to you?

Soren: I had my garden for about eight seasons, but I hadn't matured enough to be ready to take a mate. That means within our culture, I still had some freedom to go to the markets and into the cities. My parents were just beginning to wane, and not quite ready to leave their garden yet. My sister Rensa was promised a black silka to train by one of our aunts. It had just been born that night, and she wanted to see it for the first time. I had to pick up a pair of goats for my young herd from my uncle. My parents sent us to our aunt's home over in Uhun together, since it was before dawn, and bears are active at that time. It was so early it was still dark. We hadn't gotten far when we saw a light in the sky. I had a very bad feeling, so I pulled us off the roads and into hiding. That's when I first saw the Garulen. The first group passed. Rensa was terrified. She thought they were gone, and pleaded with me to make a run back to our gardens. I knew I should have kept us hidden, but she started to cry. I was afraid they would hear her, so we risked it. We broke cover and ran. I heard them shout behind us. I knew they were coming after us. I threw Rensa into a thicket and stood my ground, determined to fight them off, and distract them. I didn't know what they wanted. All I knew is I had to keep Rensa safe. They overpowered me, enslaved and tortured me for years, but they didn't find her, and for that, I'm grateful.

KB: Can you explain about this hormone that your body produces that is very much coveted and the reason you were captured and tortured for so long?

Soren: All Byralen have a special hormone in our blood that seems to be unique to us. It is a major part of our bodies, and we can't function without it. Normally, children and young adults have a low level of the hormone. When they get old enough, and meet someone who is attracted to them, the pheromones and other body signals given off by the other person that indicate genuine attraction, stimulates a higher level of hormone production. I can't believe I'm giving you this talk. I thought I wouldn't have to explain all this until I had children. Over time, our bodies change. Great grower, I can't believe I'm saying this. I sound like my father. The more time we spend alone with a single person who is attracted to us, the more attuned our bodies become to their individual chemical signals. Eventually, that person becomes the only person our body reacts to. At that point, being without one's mate becomes deadly. After a couple of years, the hormones rise enough for us to become fertile, and we have children, and we explain all of this to them, and save ourselves this embarrassment. Eventually when we reach a certain age, the hormone naturally wanes. It is akin to your menopause, except everyone here goes through it.Unfortunately, this hormone can be extracted and corrupted to create a highly addictive hallucinogenic sexual narcotic that is nearly priceless. I was given chemical stimulants to force my body to produce the hormone, so I was in a precarious situation when Cyani found me. Unfortunately, others of my species who had to endure the same torture I did, did not survive.

KB: Can you tell us a bit about your planet? Is it a place I could vacation on?

Soren: Byra is a wonderful, beautiful, very inaccessible place. If you can make it past the Pyri, you'd be welcome to explore the cities and marketplaces, but don't expect to find anyone but elders and youth. Everyone within breeding age tends to stay within their gardens, so we're not much for social entertainment.

KB: Are there many single men on your planet?

Soren: Yes, but unfortunately, they aren't out and about. The single men with mature gardens open up their gardens to the single women every spring. The women visit. If the woman then finds the man and his garden appealing, the man invites her to stay and the bonding process begins as their hormones attune to one another. Once a couple is bonded, we don't see them in society until they've waned. If you'd like to tour the gardens in the spring with the other women, your exotic Earthlen qualities might be highly desired, and garner several private tours.

KB: Cyani just found out her brother Cyn is alive. I heard he is on the search for an Azralen woman that Cyani knows. What’s the story behind this?

Soren: Cyn is a manipulative bastard, but he's a good man. He doesn't do anything without having fourteen moves of whatever game he's playing planned out ahead of time. Whatever he's doing with the bloodhunter, I'm sure he'll find out a way to twist it to his advantage. He always does. But I guess you'll have to speak to him about that. I don't know much, only that Cyani is livid about the whole thing, and Cyn refuses to let her in on what is going on. He'd better not get himself killed. If he does, I'll never forgive him for breaking his sister's heart.

KB: Should we expect any little Sorens or Cyanis in the future?

Soren: Things certainly look hopeful. Cyani's fertility isn't dependent on Byralen hormones, so we know she is fertile even as we speak. I don't believe I am yet, however, as I mentioned before, my hormone levels are messed up because of my captivity, so we may be able to have a baby sooner than the average Byralen couple. I'm a little afraid the two of us will be too fertile because we are a unique hybrid couple, but we'll have to see what the future holds. I'd like to be a father, and can't wait to see what our children would look like. I wonder if they'll have stripes.

KB: Thanks Soren! And don't forget to pick up your own copy of Beyond the Rain, now out in stores.

Isn't Soren one dreamy alien? He can come over and tend my garden whenever he likes.

Queen Victoria: Demon Hunter Coming Soon!

First there was Pride and Prejudice and Zombies...

Then Sense and Sensibility and Sea Zombies...

There is even The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Zombie Jim in the works.

Now Queen Victoria is getting in on the action! Coming from Eos in in January!

.

Synopsis:

The novel takes you to the smoggy, cobbled streets of Victoria's vile and villainous Britain, but not as you know them ...A layer of horror will be seamlessly woven in to comedic effect. You'll meet Queen Victoria not as the bitter old widow forever draped in black, but transformed into an ass-kicking killer of evil creatures. It will be so scarily convincing that you'll be certain that in the dark days of Queen Victoria, it was more than just the pick-pockets you had to look out for. This masterly new portrait will give a fresh understanding of a remarkable woman, a legendary monarch, and quite possibly the best Demon Hunter the world has ever seen. A E Moorat weaves a seamlessly lurid tapestry of royal biography, gothic horror and fist-gnawing comedy as he lifts the veil on what really took place on the dark and cobbled streets of 19th-century England.

First chapter Excerpt

And for the filmmakers out there: (From I Love Horror Blog)

Combining my love of history with horror is Queen Victoria: Demon Hunter, an upcoming novel depicting “Victorian London rife with demons and dark forces, and a Queen hell-bent on preventing a zombie apocalypse.” The U.K. based published Hodder and Stoughton Limited is holding a contest to promote the book, inviting fans to create short films or animations combining horror and history. Details can be found at WeAreNotAmused.net.

.

What do you think about Queen Victoria kicking some demon ass?

Beyond the Rain Book Review *Jess Granger*

Cyani is an intergalactic captain from the planet Azra that is controlled by a group of virgin warrior women who rule with an iron fist. Because Cyani was defending herself from being raped by a group of men when she was a young girl, she was arrested and was sentenced to death. In order to save her life, she was given probation instead. If she puts in her time working in the Union Army and is successful on her missions, she will be able to return to Azra and live a life of isolation. She will finally be filled with peace and serenity where she won’t have to deal with death and destruction. Cyani has been programmed to show no emotion or any feelings. This was beaten out of her. Cyani doesn’t trust anyone and hates being touched. She feels if she missteps or does something wrong, not only will she suffer, but also her family who may be still alive and in hiding. Cyani is very much alone in the world, with only Vicca, a cat like fox who is her scout and back up in case of an emergency.

This latest mission has Cyani and her men rescuing a group of Union soldiers that have been taken captive by the Garulens. Cyani finds a Byralen prisoner. Byralen males have a hormone that is an aphrodisiac and a much wanted commodity on the black market. This prisoner has been given poisons to keep him submissive and has been beaten and abused. Cyani will rescue him even though she places herself in extreme danger if she does. Byralens are very aggressive, strong and fast. They also have the ability to hypnotize their victims and there is a chance that Cyani will become very aroused by being in his presence.

The prisoner is Soren of Eln and was captured in a raid many years before on his planet. He has been tortured for years so he will produce the much desired aphrodisiac. When Soren is finally freed by Cyani, he is very grateful but not too optimistic. Soren expects to die because without the technology used on him by his captors, his body will shut down. The only way he can stop from dying is to form a bond with his mate. He must return to his planet and find a mate before it is too late. As he and Cyani try to find a way off the planet, they begin to form a friendship, which confounds both of them.

Cyani is able to commander a ship and promises Soren she will deliver him home. But things don’t go as planned and they crash land on a primitive planet where Cyani has been hurt and needs time to heal. Soren wants Cyani to live because every time he touches her, much to her dismay, he becomes more possessive and protective. And because the Makkolen people have special powers, they are able to keep Soren alive. Soren longs for home but he likes the Makkolen people because they have a calming way about them. This will give him time to figure out why Cyani is still uncomfortable around him and why he longs to be close to her. Cyani is very much out of her element because she is so used to be buttoned up all the time. Now she is vulnerable and Soren can see this. Cyani can’t help but enjoy the way Soren makes her feel and blames the chemicals he produces for making her feel this way.

The Makkolen expect Soren and Cyani to participate in their mating ceremony and both have no choice but to accept. Soren couldn’t be happier because he has decided what Cyani means to him. He just has to convince her that she is very special to him, and not because she saved him from such unspeakable horrors.

Jess Granger is a welcomed author to the science fiction romance world. Fans of Lauren Dane’s sci-fi books will also enjoy Jess’s storytelling with her first book Beyond the Rain, even though this one is very toned down in the erotic sense. When I first heard about Beyond the Rain I thought it would be heavy on the sex and erotic tension that I have found in such books that are under the Berkley Sensation Sci-Fi Romance line. I was surprised because even though there is sexual tension between Soren and Cyani it has just the right amount where you can enjoy their chemistry and growing feelings for one another without being overwhelmed with too much purple prose like sex descriptions and acts. In some cases that can go a bit too far and too much where the reader may be turned off, rather than turned on.

I enjoyed reading the way Soren and Cyani learn about one another. Soren has a need for closeness, a man who values touch and pleasure. Cyani’s desire for Soren comes from her belief that it is the pheromones Soren gives off that make her respond. Because these two have been denied, you can see that they have not been involved in any intimacies most have experienced. The key word here is: virginity.

Watching Soren and Cyani re-learn these basic necessities, such as want, lust and love we all take for granted was nice to read. I found the love making between these two to be a merging of their souls, even though I would have like a few more of these intimacies before they are forced back into the action and drama that may separate them.

Some readers may be disappointed in the ending because Cyani must sacrifice herself to make certain that the ones she loved are safe. I feel this was an unneeded plot device, one where the couple is separated. This technique has been used so many times in the past. There is really no plausible reason for this. I think Jess wanted to add one more emotional response from the reader before Soren and Cyani have their HEA.

I did enjoy Beyond the Rain and Soren has many of the attributes I like in a romantic hero. Cyani is a bit pricklier, but that is understandable because of what she has gone through in her life. They do have nice chemistry and my favorite parts of the story were when they enjoyed one another with their dialogue and the bond they have built upon.

Beyond the Rain is one book that I recommend for those readers who have been on the fence about whether they should give Sci-Fi Romance a go. There is just a perfect amount of sexual tension and release that does not become too outlandish or implausible. (Berkley)

Final Grade: B

*Come back tomorrow for my interview with Soren*

Laura Kinsale Cover: Lessons in French

Sarah at Smart Bitches just posted a cover cookie for all us Laura Kinsale fans.

Coming from Sourcebooks in February 2010:

I kind of miss the old vintage Kinsale covers. Luckily I have still have one and my all time favorite Kinale book ever:

.

I LOVE LOVE Flowers From the Storm! And I don't even mind the Fabio mantitty cover!

.

What do you think of the Lessons in French cover? What's your favorite Kinsale book?

Surrender the Siren Power Puff Review *Tessa Dare*

When Bubbles asked me if I wanted to do another Power Puff review because it had been so long since we posted one, I said sure! Buttercup is M.I.A. again travelling across the globe stopping evil in its midst. Lately I have been pushed to the side because of some deranged sexed up sheep. Have you, my beloved fans, forgotten your Blossum, the original reviewer of snark? I am back and after much discussion between Bubbles and myself on what book we should pick apart, we chose Surrender the Siren by Tessa Dare. There was much praise for Tessa’s first release, Goddess of the Hunt. Surrender the Siren was beautifully written with exceptional characters. Yes, I enjoy Lucy in all her immature whiney teen glory, as some have thought her to be. There was another character in Goddess of the Hunt that made a strong impression and that was Sophia Hathaway, the woman engaged to the man Lucy wanted.
Sophia is just as refreshing as Lucy. For all practical purposes she may act like a proper miss of early 19th century British society, but underneath her façade is a woman who has big dreams. She wants adventure and romance, where she will be swept off her feet but some sex hungry man who will have his wicked way with her. Sophia has this fantasy of being ravished by her painting master, Gervais, which she tells in great detail to Lucy in Goddess as well as in Siren to reformed pirate and rogue, Benedict “Gray” Grayson. Gray will be tested to the limits because he has given up all vices. And that means no longer seducing women. Too bad for Gray because the moment he meets Sophia, he will have a bad case of blue balls because of his new direction in life.

Sophia has jilted her fiancé at the altar and ends up at the docks where she will book passage on a ship to Tortola. Her new role will be a governess to a family there. Sophia must find Captain Grayson of the Aphrodite so he can allow her on his ship. She meets a Captain Grayson in a tavern and tells him her name is Jane Turner. Captain Grayson doesn’t believe her for a minute, mainly because she doesn’t look like any governess he’s seen. Sophia is a bit vain and even though she is wearing her maid’s old dress, it’s her fancy gloves that almost do her in. Grayson tries to talk Sophia out of going on this journey. There is actually a deeper reason Grayson doesn’t want Sophia on his ship. This voyage to Tortola is where Gray turns respectable. And with Sophia on it, he won’t be able to stop from seducing her. He also thinks Sophia is too fragile and, “she might break it he breathed on her wrong.”

One of the funniest internal dialogues in this whole book is where Grayson’s mind wanders and imagines what Sophia would say to him while he is trying to talk her out of this rash decision:

“Please, take me on your ship and away to Tortola. Please, strip me out of this revolting gown and intimate me in the pleasures of the flesh right here on the barstool” *Blossum had to stop reading at this point because she was laughing so hard about Gray wanting to have his way with Sophia on the barstool*

After much persuasion on Sophia’s part, Grayson let’s her come aboard. Sophia is almost home free and can spend her days painting and appreciating the rock hard cannon like muscles and charming yet dangerous look Gray has to him. Sophia is not amused when she finds out Gray is not the captain of the Aphrodite but only the owner. The captain is Gray’s half brother, Josiah, who is the illegitimate son of Gray’s father. Josiah is black, a child born from Gray’s father and Josiah’s mother who was his slave. Josiah is not happy with having Sophia as a passenger because he doesn’t trust that Gray won’t seduce her. Gray promises Josiah he won’t touch her. It’s going to be a very long voyage for Gray.

Sophia makes quite the impression on the crew and because Gray can’t give into his urges, he is very cranky. Sophia is still an innocent, even with all her romantic talk, and has no clue why Gray is so surly towards her. One minute Gray is flirting with her, the next he is rude and keeps his distance. Rather than Sophia moping around because of the way Gray treats her, she paints and draws the men on the ship. And because Gray expects Sophia to be as uncomfortable as he is, he is not happy that she is ignoring him. Because Sophia pushes him from her mind, Gray becomes more enthralled with her and from that, things progress in a way where he can’t stop himself from having Sophia. And Sophia is very happy in experiencing that passion she has always long for and with a man like Gray.

The main question arises about Sophia’s true identity and whether she can tell Gray her secrets. She knows Gray will be more then displeased if he finds out her identity is a sham. Plus there is a small problem of the unpredictable weather almost destroying the ship and Gray’s reputation that may get him arrested and killed.

I had a rousing good time reading Surrender the Siren. The majority of the action happens on the ship but there is never a dull moment. Tessa had a wonderful talent at keeping the reader engaged and she excels at this with her characters. Not only was it enjoyable watching Gray and Sophia fall in love, but it was just as nice when they were in separate scenes. Gray’s relationship with his brother Josiah really grabs you and Sophia is able to charm everyone from the cook to the barely teenage cabin boy who forms a crush on her. And those scenes where Sophia draws Gray are exquisite. Gray makes Sophia do something very unlady like things with her fingers. And you can imagine what that will lead to.

Surrender the Siren is a bit of a role reversal. The hero Gray should be the one to ravish and plunder the virginal Sophia, but it is the other way around. The delight in reading such a book like this is watching these two interact with one another. Gray is trying to act the gentleman; Sophia is trying to figure out the best way to seduce Gray without looking like a fool. These two are just so delicious together.

Lusty love on the high seas comes to mind with Surrender the Siren. I could almost feel the wind in my hair and taste the salt in my mouth. Gray and Sophia are two people who were lost, adrift in their lives until they found one another. What more could you want in a romance? (Ballantine)

Blossum’s Grade: B+

Don't forget to hop on over to The Books Smugglers for Bubbles review of Surrender the Siren!

Flavors of Love By Jill Sorenson

Deep thoughts by Bantam author Jill Sorenson, whose Set the Dark on Fire is released today!! *CROWD GOES WILD*...

Hello everyone! It’s my release day! Thanks for letting me hang out here to celebrate, KB!!

A few months ago, Katie wrote a great post about the use of the word “cream” in erotic romance. Female body fluids, whether they gush or drip or flow like honey, have been discussed at length in Romanceland. The physical affects of arousal are often described in terms of texture (slippery), appearance (glistening), or temperature (hot).

It seems to me that I’ve read very few details about the actual taste of lady parts. So let’s explore the subject in depth. Maybe we can get to the center of the issue!

Off the top of my head, I can cite two examples from well-known books. The first is in JR Ward’s Dark Lover, which kicked off the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series. After Wrath enjoys a sample of Beth’s downstairs delights, he says, “You taste like peaches.”

Peaches. Really?

I’m no expert in lady flavors, but this sounds off. I’m fairly sure that female parts don’t taste like fruit. And yet, fruit metaphors abound in romance. Words like nectar, juice, sections, and sweetness are all common. I can see the parallels in shape, texture, and appearance, but taste? I remain skeptical.

My second example is from Jean Auel’s Valley of the Horses. In the first half of this epic romance, Jondalar sexxes his way across the European continent, spearing nubile cavebabes with his giant mansword and agile tongue. He is the master of prehistoric cunnilingus. In one erotic encounter, he laps up a young woman’s “tangy salt.”

An earthier, more realistic description. I prefer it to peaches. What do you think?

I don’t mind if an author chooses to omit some details about taste and smell, or uses euphemisms like cream or honey. The important part, which both of the authors above have nailed, is to convey enjoyment in the act of giving pleasure. There is nothing sexier than a man who appreciates the taste of a woman. No matter what her unique flavor.

Contest: Want a chance to win a copy of my new book, Set the Dark on Fire? Let me know in the comments below. Open to everyone. You have till Friday to comment and you chance to win.

Mho Fho Caught Between a Book and a Hard Place

Tomorrow is a big day because there are so many books being released!

One such book that I have much love for is Percy Parker who gets the vote for long ass title of the year. This wonderful book lovely and I have been keeping close company lately...
.

But wait! I cannot deny my heart's desire for Surrender the Siren and my luscious Tessa Dare. There are goats on a boat in this one. I whispered a few words into KB's ear and she talked to her alter ego Blossum and there will be a power puff review posted on Wedsnesday.
.

It seems that I have been a bad sheep because I have been romancing both these books and they are not pleased! I think they are about fight over my wooly tail! *and don't forget my mammoth balls. They are the things legends are made of*
.

Ladies! *I assume you are female because of your books titles* Let's not fight. I will break open this very expensive bottle of chocolate liqueur and I can explain why my desire for both of you is equal...
.

A FEW HOURS LATER...

Ladies, I am so glad we have come to a mutual decision where you are both fine sharing me.
.

But wait! Another book that is being released tomorrow was also being two-timed by Mho also! It is Jill Sorenson's Set The Dark on Fire! She is not happy either finding Mho in bed with these two book hussies.

*Mho waddles over to Set the Dark on Fire* But book pookie, it was nothing! I was consumed by the luscious stories in these historical novels. Why we all know that a contemporary book gal like yourself cannot compare to those two. Why don't we have some of this expensive chocolate liqueur I only take out on special occassions. We can toast your release tomorrow...

.

AN HOUR LATER... *Mho whispers* The chocolate booze gets them everytime!

Come back tomorrow for a guest post by Jill and a giveaway for Set the Dark on Fire.

What new releases are you looking forward to pick up tomorrow?
.

And why does Mho use my bed for all his antics??

Is This Synopsis For Real? The Hunt by Anne Marsh

A friend of mine just received some of Dorchester's October cover flats and showed me one that made me go WTF? The synopsis on the back of the book had me howling in laughter.



This is by Anne Marsh, a new author I assume, and her book The Hunt: A Hunter's Mate Romance from the Love Spell line...


RUN
No matter how they try to flee, the virgins who enter the twisting tunnels of the Guardians are destined to be caught. Actually, most don't try too hard. The stories of warriors who can take on Cat form, of lovers who can make a woman scream with pleasure, are just too enticing.


But Miu is no virgin, and she joined the Hunt with her own agenda. After she steals the moonstone necklace she's been sent for, she has no intention of becoming soe Cat's tasty morsel. Too late she discovers these kitties have some deliciously kinky habits, and the dark hunter on her trail isn't about to let impudent thievery go without punishmen of the most exquisite kind.


A heroine named Miu?? BUWAHAH! Also, watch out for a kinky pussy that will torture Miu with orgasms. Oh the horror!

This description reminds me of a cross between one of Cheryl Brooks snard sci fi romps and Dara Joy's sci-fi futuristic romances that were also released under the Love Spell line.

So, by that synopsis, would you read about Miu and her kinky warrior pussies?

For those who don't know what "snard" is, just ask. ;)

I Haz A Ponder. Pheromones That Arouse

This week I will be posting my review of Beyond the Rain by Berkley author, Jess Granger as well as my interview where her hero Soren allowed me to ask him a few questions.

But first I have a question of my own...

Beyond the Rain has an interest premise behind her hero. Soren is an alien called a Byralen who can produce a hormone that can arouse and can be used as a highly addicted sexual drug. When the heroine Cyani meets Soren, she has to deal with this side effect of his because she is a woman who doesn't give into emotion or enjoys physical touch because of her past.

I have read about heroes having incredible mind powers or extreme strength, but can't think of one where their hormones or scent makes a woman go weak in the knees from intense lust.

Sounds like a great thing to have. But then could you imagine some guy walking around who produces such a pheromone that would make women fall to a puddle of quivering mush as he walks by? The way Jess wrote Soren shows him to be a good guy where he wouldn't use his hormone to whore himself across the universe.

It makes me wonder if other authors created an hero with this attribute, would they make sure he didn't abuse it? Or would this be better used with a villain? For some reason I can see the Duke of Slut in a historical romance or a vampire in a paranormal not minding at all that they can make any women they come in contact their sex slave with one whiff of their sexmone.

Perhaps we will see more heroes with outstanding sexmones in the future? We now have sparkly vampries, so why not heroes with a musky sexmone?

The things I wonder about sometimes...

Mho Fho and D.D. Act Out Courting Miss Hattie

I do believe Mho Fho's reputation has grown by leaps and bounds! This past week, Mho Fho and D.D. had their very first guest post. Keira from Love Romance Passion asked Mho and D.D. to act out the four different types of kissing explained in Pamela Morsi's romance classic, Courting Miss Hattie.

Here's an excerpt from the post...

Reed and Hattie are so very happy being married and practicing the peaches and Malvalvas. But at one point Reed wants to show Hattie a very hush-hush type of kissing not talked about because it is, shall we say somewhat naughty? Nasty Peaches are the fourth kind of kiss which Reed does not enlighten Hattie about during her lessons, until one day they are in their kitchen and one thing leads to another and…
.

*the pink scarf is Hattie’s skirt*

.

That Mho is one kinky sheep. If you want a good laugh, hop on over to Love Romance Passion. There are other pictures there that will make your mouth drop.

DNF Book Woes

I have to admit that I have been in a major reading slump lately. I have read three books that have been placed in my DNF pile. Two of the authors I have enjoyed reading in the past. The other author just didn’t deliver for me.

And so goes the woes of those DNF books. My DNF books may not be yours, so perhaps you will agree or not…

Let’s start with the two authors I have read before.

Jory Strong’s Spider-Touched (Berkley). This is the second book in Strong’s Ghostland World series. Her first book, Ghostland was a very enjoyable read and recommended to those who like reading a post-apocalyptic world with heavy paranormal and erotic elements. (There was a great deal of wet panties and hard nipples in that read). Spider-Touched has an interesting character in that of Arana, a lonely young woman who has been very abused because of the spider mark on her body that can move anywhere on her when the need arises. The spider mark protects her and if she touches someone, the mark will kill them. Anara can’t take the chance in touching anyone, so she keeps her hands to herself and wears a glove over her left hand to hide the brand that was burned in her flesh by a clergyman. The Church is considered to be one of the vilest of all in this world, even above the demons, vampires and other supernatural creatures that rule. Anara was taken in by two men who are pirates. They have come to San Francisco looking for more booty. And because the city is very dangerous, she is separated from them and taken captive and imprisoned where she will be involved in some sick games where she will be raped and killed all for profit.

Another prisoner, Tir, knows he is not human but has no memory. He can’t be killed and his blood can heal. He has been held captive by the same ones who have taken Anara. These two are able to escape and now are on the run. And they run and run, hide and fight the evildoers and have sex whenever they can. For some reason because Tir is a supernatural being, he is able to touch Anara without being killed by her spider mark. For the first 150 pages these two work together to survive even though they don’t trust one another. But that doesn’t stop Tir from feeling the licks of flame along his cock when he is with Anara. She in turn welcomes Tir because he doesn’t die a horrible death when they touch. Both win!

I really wished Spider-Touched would have worked for me. I just couldn’t connect with Anara and Tir like I did with Aisling and her demon lover Zurael in Ghostland. The action was slow to build in Spider-Touched and I couldn’t figure out what the motivation was for Anara and Tir other than fighting those evil individuals and engage in sexual pleasure every chance they could get.

Gena Showalter’s Intertwined (Harlequin Teen). I had very high hopes for this YA book by Gena because I haven't read any of her YA books before. I have enjoyed almost every single book Gena has written from her contemporaries, paranormals and sci-fi romances. The main storyteller is Aden Stone, an orphan in foster care who has four souls living in side of him. They each have their own paranormal abilities. Aden doesn’t know why he has these voices, but he is able to live with them. I on the other hand would be sitting in a corner, rocking screaming for them to leave me alone. Aden wouldn’t mind every once in a while if they took a rest. When Aden meets Mary Ann Gray his voices disappear. This is the first time it has ever happened to him. What is it about Mary Ann that makes her so special?

Mary Ann finds Aden to be strange but is intrigued by him. She doesn’t think there is anything special about her. She gets good grades, goes to work and has a five-year plan set for herself. But now that Aden is going to her school, the strangest things begin to happen. A werewolf comes out of nowhere and begins to stalk her. It is very protective and doesn’t like Aden. Not only does Aden have to pretend he is normal and watch over his shoulder from the other delinquent foster kids he lives with, a vampire princess wants to be friends with him. Aden is oddly attracted to her but because he can see the future, he knows things will end badly if he continues to pal around with her.

We have vampires, werewolves, talking voices and a whole slew of any other supernatural creature you can think of because Aden has some unlocked power that can summon them. What else can go wrong for Aden?

Intertwined did not hold my interest in the least. This whole “everything and the kitchen sink plot” does not work. I think it would have been better if Gena stuck to one focus, such as Aden and his voices and try to figure out what the deal is with Mary Ann. I couldn’t help rolling my eyes when the big bad wolf suddenly appeared and began to talk to Mary Ann in her head. And don’t get me started when the Aden begins to have time traveling flashbacks.

Speaking of time travel, there is Erin Quinn’s Haunting Beauty (Berkley). This is the first book I have read by Erin. She also writes under Erin Grady. Surely Haunting Beauty must be a good read because Diana Gabaldon is blurbed on the cover, right? To begin with, I am not a fan of time travel books. The only one I have enjoyed is Gabaldon’s Outlander’s series. But since there has been some talk of Haunting Beauty, I decided to give it a go.

The heroine Danni Jones was abandoned by her mother when she was a child. Her mother left her at daycare when she was five and never returned. Danni was than placed in foster care and grew up never knowing where she came from or who her father is and if she has any other siblings. Out of the blue a man from Ireland knocks on her door. He is Sean Ballogh and knew her as a child. Her father has been searching for her for years and wants Danni to come back to him to Ballyfionuir Island where she was born. Danni wants nothing to do with Sean and thinks she is putting her on.

Danni does a bit of detective work and finds out that Sean is dead. Twenty years ago, Sean’s own father killed Sean, as well as her mother and brother. But how can her mother be dead if she was able to come to the states with Danni? Either the man who says he is Sean is an imposter, or something more sinister is at play. And when Sean comes to her again, they are both sent twenty years in the past where they will be able to re-write history.

I found Sean to be an interesting character but Danni just wasn’t dimensional enough for me to care about her past and what was in store for her future. For some reason I can’t understand, Sean is very attractive to Danni the moment he meets her. He lays claim to her and thinks “MINE!”. Things became very loopy for me when the ghost Sean and Danni go through a time warp. They feel like they are in a sensual dream where they have sex. In Erin’s world, the bridge to the past is intercourse? Then there is talk of a mystical and sinister book of Fennore full of dark magic that may be responsible for Danni’s journey into the past.

As soon as Danni and her ghost lover Sean find themselves on Ballyfionuir and Sean’s grandmother Colleen Ballagh knows who Danni is and tells her what she needs to do, I decided Haunting Beauty just wasn’t the book for me.

And so ends the latest round of DNF books. Sometimes a book just doesn’t work for one, while it is a treasure for others. Have any of these books mentioned worked for you or are you agree that they are less than enjoyable reads that I found them to be?