Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Blogger Book Tag

I myself also volunteered to be tagged in Blogger Book Tag by DJ Librarian. I've always been curious to know more about my fellow book bloggers and I'd hope they would want to know more about me as well. So what a great idea to play tag! Now I'm IT! *wicked grin*

Questions That DJ Librarian Asked:

  1. What genre do you find yourself reading most? The least?
    I definitely tend toward the DARK side of the PNR Genre as it fits most with my blog and what I like best. I also read horror and UF/Sci-Fi. The least I would go with is your typical Romance... I know that's vague, but its true. I don't like a plain jane love story. I need some element of surprise and suspense or some conflict to keep me interested in a good book.
  2. Where do you love to read the most?
    I like tro be "curled" up across a comfy chair. I have my back against the side panels of the back and my legs thrown over the opposite arm, occasionally one is down on the floor to softly rock the chair. *smiles*
  3. What book could you read over and over without getting tired of it?
    The ONE Book I do know I can come back to over and over without tiring is Anne Rice's Blackwood Farm Something about Quinn and his story is just so enthralling to me! IF you like Anne Rice but haven't read this one of her Vampire Chronicles you would want to give it a try.
  4. What are your thoughts on graphic novels? Love 'em, don't love 'em?
    I happen to like graphic novels, but my taste is purely dependent on the artistic style it was done in.
  5. If you could see any book turned into a film (directly from page to "stage") which book would it be?
    OH! Very interesting question! I have am Easy answer for this one. Laura Kaye's Forever Freed. I loved the book and while reading it I was purely visualizing the whole thing in my head. *swoons over Lucien*
  6. What do you love most about blogging? (I know, Jennifer asked that, but I'd like to know, too!)
    OMG... my answer to this USE to be sharing my thoughts on book and hoping people would stumble across the blog and be intrigued to read the books, but since I found out about the HUGE Book Blogging community out there I have to say I love all the other bloggers I've met and become friends with in the short time since I started the blog last summer.
  7. Who helped encourage you to become the amazing reader you are today?
    I can directly attribute two authors. First and foremost was Stephanie Myers wit the Twilight Saga. My intrigue with Vampires and reading truly started there. It was after the twilight saga when I found out about FanFic and stumbled across a LauraCullen and her stories. (See my interview with Laura Kaye for more on this) It was during this time Laura began writing her own stories and her first PNR was born. I was immediately hooked! And I haven't looked back since.
  8. Has a book (non-cookbook) ever inspired you to bake or cook something?
    Yes, but I haven't tried it yet. I discovered that Jennifer Estep has some of the recipes that Gin used personally up on her website, so I'm seriously thinking of trying a few one of these days.
  9. If you could go anywhere, whether real or fictional, where would you go?
    Tough question. First place that come to mind is Ashland from Jennifer Steps Elemental Assassin series. It sounds so intriguing to see what a place like that would be like. After that would be up in either Scotland or Ireland where several other PNRs I've read have been set.
  10. Say you are the heroine of a fantasy/adventure novel. What animal would you love/want to have as a companion?
    Do Dragons count as an animal? IF they do I'd love to have one as my companion. If not then I'd have to go with a Lynx. I love those huge paws and their lean muscular strength. *blames Jodi Redford* LOL

Rules:

  1. You must post the rules.
  2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post and then create ten new questions to ask the people that you have tagged.
  3. Tag eleven people and link to them on your post.
  4. Let them know you’ve tagged them.

Now for my Questions to my next group of "victims" and friends. *winks*

  1. Name your top authors who you always buy or pre-order the upcoming releases from.
  2. What is your favorite Paranormal creature to read about and why?
  3. Who or What got you into book blogging?
  4. Most treasured book or book related possession?
  5. If you could be a shifter what would your other form be and why?
  6. Name your biggest book pet peeve.
  7. If you could swap places with a book heroine (and NO I do NOT mean your Book Boyfriends girl!!) who wold it be and why that heroine?
  8. If your real life romance was a book what would you call it and what would the synopsis say?
  9. If you had a secret hideaway so you could disappear and read all day, where would this secret place be hidden and what would it look like?
  10. Lastly, how has the book blogging community shaped how you read and review books?

and lastly...I am supposed to tag 11 of you crazy tweeps to keep the questions going
In no particular order:
Angela @ UTCbook Blog
Kendra @ Edyns Trybe
Jen @ Red Hot Books
Alison @ Alison Can Read
Shari @ Delighted Reader
Elena @ Sam, E and R's Awesomness!
Nikki @ Encounters with the Night Kind
Kelly Rubidoux
Jess @ Between the Sheets
And anyone else who is interested please leave a comment so I can add you to this list.

Thanks!

Friday, February 24, 2012

ARC Review: Cat Scratch Fever by Jodi Redford

ARC Review

ARC Gratefully provided by Jodi Redford. Thanks Jodi!

Description from Amazon:

Who says a wolf can’t make a pussycat purr?

Perfect timing has never been Lilly Prescott’s long suit. Seconds before a showdown with werewolf Dante Morgan, who owns a property that by rights should belong to her, she goes into heat. Not a simple event for a lynx shifter. No, she’s doomed to weeks of frustration that can only be soothed by frequent rolls in the hay—or her hand. Unfortunately, Dante accidentally witnesses the latter.

Left shaken and highly aroused in the snow, Dante can’t believe he’s attracted to the woman who drives him crazy, and not in a good way. Worse, his father has issued an ultimatum. Marry, or abdicate his place as pack leader. On the other hand, it’s the perfect leverage. Lilly will get her land…in exchange for a wedding ring and all the sexual satisfaction she can handle.

Marry Dante? No doubt he’s a poster boy for Hunks ’R’ Us, but he’s rude, arrogant and Lilly’s sworn enemy. Not to mention the thought of losing her independence is frightening as hell.

When they find themselves falling victim to their own charade, though, it’s anything but hell. It’s heaven, and the last thing either of them wants. The real thing.

Warning: This book contains redneck werewolves, inconvenient hormones, and a whole new use for cat toys. Uncontrollable meowing may occur.

Review

Poor Lilly, how shocking to discover the man she loathes has caught her trying to relief herself while in heat. On her way to meet with Dante the heat cycle begins and what's worse...she left he herbal medicine back home. Left to deal with it on her own, she pulls over and takes matters into her own hands, only to have Dante come wandering after he can smell her. She takes to calling him a few choice words before barreling away in her SUV. Lilly is a lynchat - a human-lynx shifter. She is trying to secure 60 acres of land which are part of Dante's family land so her organization can create a sanctuary/ retreat for them. Not shocking is that Dante is being a stubborn arrogant pig towards her request and dishes out all the dirt he can to aggravate her, and it's working.

It's right about now they get into the fun as she calls him out and what does a man do, but oblige. I couldn't believe he falls for it and decides to let her see for herself that he's got good sausage meat. *snickers* To bad it's around that time Dante's father comes wandering in on them. Lilly leaves in a hurry to let the father sun duo have their heated conversation. This is where the ultimatum gets issued - Marry/Mate or lose his place as the packs Alpha. That and the short time line - one week.

The next series of events is what gets things moving between Lilly and Dante - She gets caught in a tree, sprains her ankle, Dante comes to the rescue but orders her to stay put. It is after this he discovers for himself Lilly is the alternative mate he needs to still hold his place as alpha and not marry the knifing bitch next door- Anna Gifford. His plan - play the good dog and kiss up to Lilly - which means giving her what she wants...the 60 acres of land for their retreat.

Now comes the fun part, getting her and both their families to believe their false love story and that they are getting married. Not as easy as it looks even with things starting out as saucy as they did. Dante goes in for the move and lets her loud-mouthed inner slut out. She gets into some trouble with some of the local pack before Dante chivalrously rescues yer, again. This gets her claim in with his brother Shane, but the rest is yet to play out. Soon enough they come to see the other family, Theo, Jamie and Tess...and soon shortly there after his father.

Things are much easier for Lilly's family in meeting with her sister Kinley and her mother. Both readily accept Dante and he falls in with them easily and Lilly's a bit shocked by Dante and how well he gets along with them. It was after they get back that things go from bad to worse. I won't spoil the ending as I was FLOORED by the turn of events.

I have to say that I really loved Jodi's writing style. I loved how I had a love/hate relationship with Dante and either wanted to shag or smack the SOB for his trickery in getting Lilly all riled up. I loved Lilly's strong character and her persistence in bettering her organization. These two complimented each other perfectly and really are the epitome of the "opposites attract" expression. I'm glad I took a gander and gave her book a try. She's got a new fan with me and I am putting her on my Authors to DIE for list. A Solid 5 stars for Cat Scratch Fever!

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Dirty Little Secret #21


Dirty Little Secret is a weekly meme hosted by Under the Covers. Every Thursday we get to know other bloggers and our readers more intimately by asking them a question hoping to reveal their dirty little secrets. We hope that you will all join us!
To participate in the meme all you need to do is:
  1. Be a follower of Under the Covers.
  2. Create a post in your blog taking the meme image (code above) and copy instructions.
  3. Answer the question proposed! This can be done in any way you like, post a video, write a post etc.
  4. Then add your link below.
Non-bloggers: We want to hear from you as well!!! Let us know your answer in the comments!
We hope you join us and let us know your Dirty Little Secrets!

""

O.O I think I almost forgot about giving up something. I can't give up my series. I'd practically go stir crazy just waiting to see what happens next!! However, I'm trying to give up my major Mtn. Dew addiction. (Trust me you don't want to know how much I drink of that stuff!) besides ther is more news justifying just how bad pop in general is for people to drink... Keep in mind I don't drink coffee (BLEH!) I occasionally drink hot cocoa or chocolate. Carry on!

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Guest Post with Julieanne Lynch

Good morning everyone. I'm honored and happy to have the Intriguing Junlieanne Lynch here for a Guest Post. So without further ado..I'm turning the blog over to her. Enjoy!

There are many things that I love about writing Urban Fantasy, and there are still many things that scare me half to death over the whole writing process. Obviously my passion for the written word has grown over the past couple of years, and I have found myself devouring 3-4 books a week, and writing on top of that heavy reading schedule. And there is one author who I just love to sit and read, over and over, and I thank her for introducing me to the wonderful world of Urban Fantasy – Richelle Mead.

I remember finishing the last of the Twilight novels in Spring 2009, and felt very dejected and craved something more substantial, and low and behold, I came across the fantastic world of Vampire Academy, and I was hooked on everything Mead wrote from there on in. So in a sense I have her to thank for taking me down a road I thought I’d never go.

I knew from a very early age that I was more interested in the arts, and my forte was writing. I’d happily sit and read my days away as a teenager, and began developing my own unique style of writing – telling stories the way I envisaged them. All through my teens I struggled with personal identity and was more often than not a very isolated and somewhat ‘different’ girl to that of my peers. I found the escapism of books a welcome break from playground bullies and fell in love with the likes of Dickens, Poe, Lovecraft, Walker, Austen and many more.

So when it came to writing my first ever series, I had developed my own stylized form of storytelling. I didn’t want to be compared to people I look up to in the literary world, I just want to be me, and I hope that doesn’t change.

Writing my first novel in the series, In The Shadows was a straight forward painless procedure. It was completed in a twelve week period and I never looked back, but boy was I not prepared for the hurdles that were involved in writing the second book in the series, Walking with Shadows. It took me just over a year to write the book, and there were many re-writes, deletes and overall tantrums. Why? Because I felt that I had something to prove, and I wanted it to be the best and darkest version of how I saw Giselle’s life fall deeper into the unknown. I also wanted to do something different, and wrote from the perspective of three main characters; Giselle, Alex and Marc. Again, this added to the hard work involved in the writing the book, but I wanted my readers to see inside their heads, get a taste of their true intentions and maybe break a rule or two. Of course, I think there is one particular part of the book that will either go down well with readers, or they will email me complaining, BUT, “that” particular thing had to happen, and you’ll see why in book three, Fighting Shadows.

So if you’re like me, and love books, and are a prime candidate for something new, Walking with Shadows will more than entertain you. It will take you on a journey that quickly spirals out of control and of course, there is the delicious Antoine to keep you warm and fuzzy inside and if like me, you love vampires, then the whole series will more than give you your dose of the nocturnal creature.

Walking with Shadows
By Julieanne Lynch
“Walking with Shadows” is the second of The Shadows trilogy, an urban fantasy of vampires and the supernatural, and much, much more.

Giselle regains consciousness and is horrified to discover she has been asleep for nine weeks. She was already aware that she was carrying a very special baby who was to be the first of a new race of vampires, but she is shocked to find how her pregnancy is progressing. Around her, the underworld is in turmoil.

Vampires battle with creatures of darkness and with other vampires, and few are entirely what they seem. More confusing still, those who appeared to be totally evil may have a streak of goodness in them, and those who appeared to be Giselle’s friends may have a darker purpose of their own. Almost anyone, it seems, can be changed and turned, except possibly Ysoriel the Archangel and the goddess Lilith, and Giselle cannot be sure that even they are interested only in her welfare.

The only certainty is that it will all become very much worse before it begins to get better – if anything ever gets better for Giselle.

** Publisher’s note: Not recommended for readers under 15 years of age.

Excerpt

The smell was the first thing that triggered the memories of my time held in the cell. A damp, musty, hot scent that burned the back of my nose brought me back to reality and face to face with him. He watched me as I was led towards him. His eyes glared at me and inspected every inch of my body and swollen abdomen.

Smiling, he stood up and mocked me by bowing at my feet.

“The illustrious queen returns,” he shouted. “The shadow queen herself stands before us. We must rejoice.” Inside, my heart thumped hard against my chest and my baby moved, brushing limbs against the inside of my womb. Silently, I prayed to Lilith, and to anyone who would save me. How I regretted leaving Ysoriel and walking into this trap.

“Giselle, I knew you would come to me. I could sense the darkness in you the very first time I saw you. You may be a picture of innocence on the outside, but inside you are dead and cold just like the rest of us. Welcome home.” He brushed his hand against the side of my face, smiling, as his eyes, yellow and feral, stared hard into mine. The same sinister eyes I had seen in my dream.

He took me by the hand and led me away from Mara and Bernael, taking me into a large oak lined room and closed the door behind us. I stood frozen, trying to control my breathing.

The urge to scream was almost uncontrollable, but something inside stopped me. Instead, I looked ahead, focusing my gaze on a bizarre portrait that hung over the wrought iron fireplace. It was unusually misplaced in a world that was anything but calm. A brown haired woman stood by a large chestnut tree, her limbs were pale and lithe, and her face was beautiful. Her dark blue eyes focused on the small child next to her, and the child looked up at her with total love.

I was so fixed on the image of the mother and child that I had not noticed the roar of the fire, until the screams caught my attention. I tried to shield my ears from the screams so piercing that I almost fell to my knees, but slowly they died, as did the flames.

Laughing, Xavier rubbed his hands together and sat down in a large, ornate chair. Running his nails along the arm, he let out a deep breath, and sighed.

“Another soul damned. I do enjoy these moments. It fills my,” he thumped his chest, “with so much joy.” Then his eyes turned cold and mean.

“Why have you brought me here?” I asked, controlling the tremble in my voice.

“Dearest Giselle, need I really point out the obvious factors to your return?”

“But I don’t belong here. I just want to return to my old life.”

“Your old life, my dear child, is a thing of the past. Look at it as being a decayed memory, something distorted, and, given time, you will soon forget the ways of the old and embrace the ways of the new.” He smiled at me.

From deep inside me, I could feel a surge of something creeping to the surface. A rush of adrenaline ran through me, and before I could think about what I was saying, it came out.

“I think you mistake me for the simpering little girl from before.” I walked over to him. “But you see, people change, and I have seen so much in the past few months that you no longer scare me.”

“Now this, this is the fighting talk of a queen,” he said exuberantly.

“What?”

“I knew it from the first moment I set my eyes on you, that you were worthy of the crown.”

I stepped back from him and shook my head. “No, I will not be a goddamned queen. I refuse to take a part of this bloody freak show any longer. I demand you return me back to Antoine, now.”

He approached me and placed his hands on either side of my abdomen.

Breathing heavily into my face, he looked down at my swollen baby bump and smiled. “You will not be going anywhere for a long time my dear.”

From behind me I could hear movement, and as I turned round, two dark silhouettes took a firm hold of my arms and held me still. Xavier stepped in closer to me, and grabbed me by my chin.

“You would be a foolish girl to try anything stupid. There will be no rescues, no saviours, nothing. You are here for good, and once you give birth to the child, you will be reborn. The sooner you accept this, the easier it will be for both you and the child when the time comes to hand him over to the Nightwalkers,”

“What? No... No one is taking my child from me,” I spat at him.

“A deal is a deal, little dark one.”

“Oh my God, there is no way in hell you are taking my baby from me,” I screamed as I struggled to break free from the grip of the shadows.

“Ah, but you see, you are in hell, and it’s the way of hell,” he laughed. “Take her below,” he instructed the two shadows holding me.

I pulled against them and managed to free my arm. I went to hit him, but before my eyes he evaporated and then appeared again in front of me, smiling. “Silly little half-breed,” he snarled at me, and took hold of my neck and pushed me forward. Remembering the time I had been kept here, I knew there was no point in resisting. I walked on through the dimly lit corridor, hearing the familiar sounds of faint screams and pleading. Gritting my teeth, I fought against the urge to shout an array of obscenities at my guards. Instead, I focused on the tunnel and the light at the end. Stepping down to avoid my head hitting the beam above me, I was led down a narrow spiral staircase.

I was surprised to be met by Mara. She smiled gleefully at me, unaware of how much I hated her at that precise moment, and if it had not been for my ‘delicate constitution’ I would have lunged at her and ripped her head off. So, dreaming of a time that I would carry out that thought had to be enough for me and enough to take me through the awful situation. “Giselle, you seem flushed,” she commented. “Maybe you ought to rest. A woman in your condition must take all the rest she can get. Come, we have prepared refreshments in your chamber.”

Mara was tall, with the longest blonde curls I had ever seen, but she looked like a shadow of what she might have been in another life. Her pale skin and dark circles reminded me of how dreadful you become when you cross over to the darkness. She seemed to move as though she was floating on air. Her long flowing silk dress covered her feet, but it hung low on her back, revealing thick red scars around her shoulder blades, and continued down to the centre of her spine, only stopping where the dress covered her lower back.

We followed her until we came to a set of doors. She clapped her hands and one of the guards released his grip on me and moved to the door, opening it for us to enter.

“Come,” Mara instructed me.

Inside me, the familiar feelings of nerves and queasiness overcame me, and I felt my heart pound in my chest. I was astonished at what met me when I walked into the room.

The room was like something out of a period drama. The walls were covered in red flocked wallpaper, the hardwood floor covered by an oriental styled rug, and, to my surprise, two large windows were dressed with heavy swags and thick layers of suedette and lace. A large ornate fire surround had candelabra on both ends, and a clock sat on the mantle, chiming.

I stood in the centre of the room, trying to take it all in. This was nothing like the conditions I had been kept in before. This was opulent, and that confused me, but before I could say anything someone from behind me cleared his throat, and, turning around, I was met by an unfamiliar man.

About Julieanne

Fiery Librian Julieanne Lynch is an author of urban fantasy books for both adults and teens. Originally from Northern Ireland, Julieanne now lives in Ireland, where she works on her Shadows Trilogy and other series full-time. Before becoming a writer, she considered a few different career paths, a rock star being one of them. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at The Open University, and considered journalism as a career path. However, she decided writing was the way for her and believes all of her education and reading prepared her for it.

An avid reader, Julieanne has always had an encompassing fascination with folklore. When not writing, she enjoys crime series such as Criminal Minds, CSI, NCIS and Cold Case, and loves anything with Vampires, listening to metal, meeting new people, drinking lots of green tea, and sharing her dreams with her children. She is a self-professed goth wanna-be,and is happy when left to write into the early hours of the morning.

Find Julieanne Online
Her Website | Her Blog | On FaceBook

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Dirty Little Secret #20


Dirty Little Secret is a weekly meme hosted by Under the Covers. Every Thursday we get to know other bloggers and our readers more intimately by asking them a question hoping to reveal their dirty little secrets. We hope that you will all join us!
To participate in the meme all you need to do is:
  1. Be a follower of Under the Covers.
  2. Create a post in your blog taking the meme image (code above) and copy instructions.
  3. Answer the question proposed! This can be done in any way you like, post a video, write a post etc.
  4. Then add your link below.
Non-bloggers: We want to hear from you as well!!! Let us know your answer in the comments!
We hope you join us and let us know your Dirty Little Secrets!

"Heroes in historical romance like the extremes - the virgin hero or the rogue rake. Which of the two makes you shudder in pleasure?"

For me it's definitely the rogue rake. I like mine to be dark and brooding...and who better then a rake. They can charm you out of your clothes and tempt you will all sorts of dark promises of what he's going to do to your body. My favorite line I've seen is, "I'm going to do things to you that no honest man would dare speak of to a lady." *shudders* Oh my! If that doesn't get your blood to near boiling then I don't know what would. *grins*

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Feature & Follow #12

Welcome to the Feature & Follow

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow Friday is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday is now hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it’ll allow us to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them “hi” in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

Now to make this #FF interesting we do a FEATURE blogger. If you are interested in becoming a Feature click on the drop down link above FEATURES > Feature & Follow Friday and get on the waiting list! How do you follow someone? Well, if you have a preference, state it in your #FF post. A lot of blogs are transitioning to WordPress in which they do not have the luxury of GFC, so an RSS subscription is appreciated or if you choose an email subscription. If you don’t have GFC please state in your post how you would like to be followed.It is also required, that if you participate you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read) and the two Feature blogs.

Parajunkee's Feature – Evolet @ Beefcake & Babes

Alison Can Read's Feature - Le Grande Codex

And now the Random Question of this week:

Some people enjoy unique names for characters. What's the most unique name you've come across ?

Hmmm... good question. There are several fun names in Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter series: Illium, Vivek, Ashwini, and more.
However, the strangest and most unique would have to have been - Lymmrick from Amber Scott's Fierce Dawn


Naughty After Dark Blog Hop

Naughty After Dark Blog Hop

Welcome to the Blog Hop.

This hop is being put on by Nikki@ Close Encounters with the Night Kind and the wonderful Author Natasha Blackthorne.

This is going to be a fun one as I'm going to be offering something a bit different this time. What I'm offering for this hop is a travel size bundle of your choice of scent from Bath and Body Works.

To me a scent is a major turn on and what screams I WANNA BE NAUGHTY! then making your husband, Boyfriend of guy you wanna catch then alluring to his senses...but more particularly his scent of smell. Simply fill out the raffle copter form below and leave a comment with your choice of scent you'd like if you win. Following is appreciated, but not required. Then take alook at the other participants and get naughty!

Monday, February 13, 2012

Interview With Laura Kaye PLUS Giveaway

Happy Monday to all you crazy followers. I'm thrilled and absolutely DYING to be having my favorite PRN Author here at Picked by Poison. I'm very fortunate and honored to have the wonderful Laura Kaye here as part of her Blog Tour for her latest release In the Service of the King. So without further ado!

Hello Laura! It’s a pleasure to have you here… I’ve been dying (not my by own hands mind you) to have you here! I’m thrilled you are able to join me!

I know you’re burnt out with doing guest blogs, so an interview it is (besides I think we both know I’ve been GOING NUTS wanting to pick that brain of yours!)

LOL! Thank you so much for having me here!

If you don’t mind share a little about yourself and your writing career path please.

I’ve been writing fiction for three and a half years. The first book I wrote was my vampire romance, Forever Freed, which I then spent over a year revising and querying. About 18 months after I began Forever Freed, and after querying a lot of agents who took a look at the manuscript but ultimately passed, I sold it to the first small press I queried, The Wild Rose Press. Shortly thereafter, I wrote Hearts in Darkness which TWRP accepted in less than a week. While I spent the next months working through revisions on those two books, I wrote two others, In the Service of the King, which just released on February 1 from Harlequin Nocturne, and The Fantasy Life of a Middle-Aged Wife, a women’s fiction I adore that I’m hoping to finish last-round revisions on in March and query. In the winter-spring of 2010-2011, I wrote two other stories, Just Gotta Say and North of Need, both of which sold almost immediately, and then the first of my books started releasing and I had titles come out in April, May, September, and November. Two of those books (In the Service of the King and North of Need) were the first in series, and the sequels of both are what I’m mostly writing now.

Phew! I promise I won’t go on like that again!!! LOL!

*giggles* I don't mind in the least, I like hearing about how you got to stardom *winks*

Now I’ve been a fan since your FanFic writing days, let’s outline a little of that for those who didn’t know what a dirty mind you had back then. *gives you my rendition of the cock-eyed Edward grin*

*snort* Yes, I did in fact write fan fiction, and I might as well own up that it was Twilight fan fiction at that. And, yes, I had a total Edward Cullen addiction. I wrote two novel-length fics and a couple of short stories during the year and a half I was active in the fandom. If you’re morbidly curious, LOL, click here. Seriously, though, I loved my experience writing fan fiction. I made a ton of friends, got a lot of writing experience and reader affirmation, and gained a nice readership.

*Smiles widely* Yes, I was one of those readers you gained and I even brazenly asked you a question about a story idea I had, which you were kind enough to answer thoughtfully and thoroughly.

I recall a particular Twilight-based Fan Fiction which got you some acknowledgment – The List and OMG what a story that one was! What part of the Twilight Saga got those gears rolling?

Yes, The List was the story I was most known for. And it was totally inspired by the

  1. The ridiculous idea that Edward would’ve ever thought he could go from complete abstinence to an attempt at full intercourse without any experience in between,
  2. The impossible idea that a real woman in Bella’s situation wouldn’t have spontaneously combusted from all the sexual tension, and
  3. The &$%!*! infuriating fades to black!!

LOL I’ve always been surprised by how that story took off: on Twilighted.net, the main site where I posted, The List has to date 13,542 reviews and 2,091,315 hits across 28 chapters. I’m really proud that people have enjoyed that story.

It was after that when deliciously troubled Lucien decided to come out to play. *grins* I know he was thrilled to have his story being told, but it definitely grew and evolved over time. How has that journey been for both of you?

Lucien Demarco was my first original hero. He literally took over my brain for a good solid three months while I wrote the first draft of Forever Freed. Because FF was the first book I wrote and first I sold, it remains really special to me.

I know a little birdie mentioned a potential second book about Lucien, Samantha and Ollie on a blog somewhere anything you can tell us Lucien Lovers about what we might see.

The second book will be called Forever Young and it will start a number of years after the first book ends, and it will primarily be Ollie’s story, though her parents will feature prominently in it. Can you imagine Lucien dealing with Ollie dating???

YIKES! Knowing how protective he was in the story...watch out all you men vying for a stunning, bubbly and vivacious blonde!! Lucien is watching for YOU! LOL!!

It was a rather finicky elevator at work that got your imagination in gear to bring us the lovely Makenna (MJ) and Caden. What other fears do you think could cause us to act out our dreams and let love find us at the most unusual of times?

Ooh, interesting question. In general, I think a character trying to overcome a fear or phobia offers great conflict and a wonderful character arc when they’re ultimately successful. In Hearts in Darkness, Caden’s claustrophobia and traumatic past were the perfect thing to make him and Makenna put aside the distance they might’ve normally kept and open up to each other.

I have to put a “shamwow warning” in here with the heat level from Just Gotta Say… Where in the blazes did Callie and her kinky side come from?!?! *fans self recalling Callie’s encounter*

LOL Kinky characters…kinky author???

I would bet that is highly true!

I have to say that after reading In the Service of the King I wanted to slap Kael for sending Shayla away in the beginning without an explanation… I wonder how that kind of scenario would have played out had she done that. Care to Ask Kael what he would have done??

Here’s what Kael had to say: “Then, I immediately regretted my behavior. Now, it’s terrifying to remember back to that night and think she might not have returned. It would’ve crushed me, but she would’ve been within her right. Lucky for me I’ve found such a big-hearted, compassionate mate.”

Kael seemed very passionate, determined and strong willed—until he met Shayla and saw how she could be an ideal potential mate… He didn’t take very well to that idea with his loathing of this particular event. How did he feel about breaking down his walls and letting her in?

I don’t even need to ask him this one. He is so completely happy his restraint failed him that night.

And lastly the fun set:

Plotter or pantser? Total pantser

Early Bird or Night Creature? Night owl!

Which one of your heroines are you most like – Sam, Makenna, Callie, Megan or Shayla? Oh my…hmm…probably Sam

White, Milk or Dark chocolate? Milk chocolate!

Coffee Tea or other? Iced tea! Or ginger ale…

Music or quiet while working? No music. Doesn’t have to be quiet, but I like to sing too much to listen to music

Favorite place to sit and write? (ok, Panera is a GIVEN here, but others as well) Duh! Panera. Or my office at home.

Computer or good old pen and paper? Have laptop, will travel!

Pick your poison (alcoholic drink of choice when going out) OMG I’m such a lightweight! I’ll say red wine.

Thanks for letting me pick your brain Laura. I hope you enjoyed stopping in because you know I love seeing what’s going on with you all your characters.

Thank YOU so much, Sara! Fun questions!

And now I have other Fabulous news...

To celebrate her new release, Laura is giving away one e-copy of In the Service of the King at each stop on her New Release Tour, 1/30 – 2/15! In addition, all commenters from across the tour will be entered to win a prize bag filled with swag and various vampire items, perfect for the vampire lover! RULES: Must leave e-mail address & if from U.S. in comment. Ebook prizes open to international; prize bag to U.S. only.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Feature & Follow #11

Welcome to the Feature & Follow

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow Friday is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday is now hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it’ll allow us to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them “hi” in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

Now to make this #FF interesting we do a FEATURE blogger. If you are interested in becoming a Feature click on the drop down link above FEATURES > Feature & Follow Friday and get on the waiting list! How do you follow someone? Well, if you have a preference, state it in your #FF post. A lot of blogs are transitioning to WordPress in which they do not have the luxury of GFC, so an RSS subscription is appreciated or if you choose an email subscription. If you don’t have GFC please state in your post how you would like to be followed.It is also required, that if you participate you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read) and the two Feature blogs.

Parajunkee's Feature – Fran @ Bok Chow Down

Alison Can Read's Feature - Goldilox and the Three Weres

And now the Random Question of this week:

What would your prefer: reading your favorite book over and over again until you got sick of it OR reading 100s of mediocre books? And why?

Some choice THAT is. I would have to go with reading 100s of mediocre books instead of just my favore (of which I have several, so it's not just ONE book). Why? Because I'd rather read about new worlds and realms and characters then get too familiar with my favorite that it looses it's flair. If i can read mediocre books then I can get new ideas and visions in my mind to keep my creativity and brain active. I'd get tired of reading my favorites day in and day out.


Guest Blog with Serena Zane

Today I am happy to have Author Serena Zane guest blogging...so I'll let her take over from here!

Stepping from the darkened shadows, he glides across the room. A glint in his eyes half desire, half hunger, and you don’t care which you’ll be…

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been fascinated by vampires and the paranormal as far back as I can remember. I reminisce about sleepless nights staying up with my best friend Stephanie through high school watching “B” rated films that inevitably had a vampire drinking the life from some poor helpless female. I loved it. Now, my tastes have refined, if you want to call it that. My bookshelves are filled with paranormal authors from Christine Feehan’s Dark series to the Crimson City series. Vampires, werewolves and witches, they all have a draw. Being an adult woman though, I crave a little more from my reading and seek that heat to draw my attention.

When I started writing, I wanted my main male character to be dark, sexy, and dangerous. Where better to find all those traits than in a vampire? These days when I read or watch a movie it takes a lot to hold my attention. My writing is the same way. I need to have a strong male lead to grasp and hold my attention or it starts to wander, I can’t tell you how many half finished manuscripts lay around my house. All my work that made it off the office floor involves a strong male lead, and an equally strong female to match them.

When my mind conjured up Damon Blake in my new story Snow Beast, it was in the middle of the night sitting alone in my big king-sized bed, writing on my laptop, eating chocolate, and watching Buffy. You can’t get much better than Angel, but in my brain I started thinking up Damon, an ancient vampire with powers to rival even the greatest threats. His long flowing black hair and bright blue eyes captured my imagination. And, where you can have one, why not two? Damon has a twin brother, Jared Blake. Their personalities are opposing, but they make one delectable sight when standing side by side, and boy, are they fun to write.

Detective Nikki Adams finds out just how irresistible Damon is in this first installment of the Dark Warrior series. I hope you enjoy reading about the dangerously sexy duo as much as I enjoy writing about them.

And there you have it..another yummy male vamp with his perfectly paired match to add to your TBR Piles. Thanks for stopping in Serena and I will definitely be adding Jared and Damon to mt list of Vamps to follow.

Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop

Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop

Welcome to the Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop

February is the month of love and what do we love more than hot, sexy, dangerous and seductive vampires? Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop is all about spreading our love for these supernatural creatures. So sign up your blog below and join us in bringing readers their very own vampire for Valentines!

Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop runs from 12:01am February 10th through to 11:59pm February 16th 2012, and is hosted by Felicity Heaton (Paranormal Romance Author) and Bitten by Paranormal Romance.

I am giving away an eBook copy of the book that got me hooked on Vampires in Paranormal Romance...Laura Kaye's Forever Freed.

Entry is simple. Fill out the Rafflecopter form below and only the first is required for entry. The rest is optional. This hop is open only to US entries at this time. Please stop by the other participants - Bloggers and Author's alike and thanks for dropping in!

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Dirty Little Secret #19


Dirty Little Secret is a weekly meme hosted by Under the Covers. Every Thursday we get to know other bloggers and our readers more intimately by asking them a question hoping to reveal their dirty little secrets. We hope that you will all join us!
To participate in the meme all you need to do is:
  1. Be a follower of Under the Covers.
  2. Create a post in your blog taking the meme image (code above) and copy instructions.
  3. Answer the question proposed! This can be done in any way you like, post a video, write a post etc.
  4. Then add your link below.
Non-bloggers: We want to hear from you as well!!! Let us know your answer in the comments!
We hope you join us and let us know your Dirty Little Secrets!

"So it's V-Day. You are all dressed up in your tiniest, yet most expensive undies (go figure!), got a dress on your mother would definitely disapprove of and enough condoms to keep a football team happy, where are you going and which of your favourite book boyfriends are taking you there?"

Hmm...First I'm making this an extended holiday and having my way with all of them. *wicked grin* First off Lucien DeMarco is taking me out for a show at the local theater and dinner at a nice restaurant...he's getting a "bite" later *winks*. After dinner it's back to his renovated home in Detroit where I get the grand tour and then he gets to have a bite while the scanty little dress slowly comes off, along with anything else.
Next on my list is my only human boyfriend - Caden Grayson, who has generously offered to let me have my way with him and all his glorious tattoos tonight. *fans self* Oh my! All the ink I get to lick and suck at!!
And lastly I'm being flown in private jet to Russia to met with Aleksandr Nemov for a tour of his majestic castle ... and then a tour of him.. any angle I desire. *beams *
That is my extended date for Valentine's day. :-)

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Interview with Malia Mallory

Hello Malia!

Welcome and thanks for being today's “Pick” Let’s get dirty!

Thank you so much for hosting me today!

Please share a little about yourself, your works and what got you into writing.

I started self-publishing my writing last year. I've been writing on and off for a long time but only got serious recently. In previous careers, I've been both a proofreader and a copy-editor and these skills have been very useful.

I've had this idea for working my way through the ABCs thematically for quite a few years. I had opportunity to take some time to do this so I dove in.

My blog tour centers around my series called The ABCs of Erotica. So far, I've published A is for Anal, B is for Beach, C is for C*ck Ring, D is for Domination and R is for Revenge. A through C are also available as a combined volume.

I have also written a few stand-alone stories including Santa's Backdoor Baby and Mia's Cop Craving. I'm working on the sequel for Mia's Cop Craving as well as a steampunk erotica novella entitled Clockwork Caning.

What was the best part about writing The ABC’s of Erotica?

I really enjoy hearing from people that they were entertained by a story I wrote. I also like the feeling of satisfaction I get when a story is complete.

What was the hardest part about writing The ABC’s of Erotica thus far?

I find it difficult to find the time. I am a terrible procrastinator. I need to be more disciplined about putting aside specific blocks for writing. It is so easy to fritter away time.

Which character was the hardest to write about and why?

I think maybe Mistress Ven is the most difficult. She is a Domme that is featured in both C is for C*ck Ring and D is for Domination. Her tastes are not really my personal tastes so I really have to think about her thoughts and actions when I write. In addition, I want to make her likeable which can be very challenging. I have to make sure I show that she does acknowledge and care for her submissives. I think it would be easy for her to come off as one-dimensional or even mean if I were not careful.

When you decided to run with the idea of the ABC’s of Erotica into a series how did the groupings for the letters come out?

You know it actually isn't quite clear yet. 26 doesn't really divide evenly. Many of the stories that I feel have significant enough plot and length, I'm releasing as separate pieces. However, I do plan to continue to bundle some as well. Some bundles will have three stories and some will probably have four stories.

Can you tell a little about some of the future letters in the series without giving too much away?

The letters are in various stages of completion. For example, H is for Handjob is done, but I've been primarily using it as a prize in blog hops (three this month!). A is for Anal is available many places as a freebie and I'm giving B is for Beach out to people who sign up for my mailing list. Y is for Yearning is pretty finished as well.

Some of the others are partially complete. This would include M is for Masturbation and E is for Erection. I really intended to go in order but clearly I've been skipping around. I have a full list of the planned titles on my web site. I do end up making some changes at times. For example, R started out as R is for Rubenesque since it was a BBW erotica story. However, when it was finished, many beta readers commented that the focus was really on the revenge aspect. They were right and I renamed it.

Did the plot and characters work out as you wanted or did they shape the book as you were writing?

It goes many ways. Sometimes I have a theme I want to use like V is for Virgin, writing about a first time sexual experience. Then I have to come up with some characters and plot. For others, I had a story outlined and then had to figure out where to fit it in. For example, the story that is now Y is for Yearning used to be S is for Seduction. It didn't fit there as well I decided to change it.

H is for Handjob was easy to place because the focus was on that particular act and I had a fleshed out idea for it. With that story, I had to figure out how to round out the plot and get the characters into the position I wanted.

Tell about the fantasy in that inspired you to write that tasty tidbit in B is For Beach.

I have personally always loved the beach, particularly at night. During the day, it tends to be hot and crowded. At night it is wonderful, cool breezes, crashing waves, moonlight on the water and privacy. It has always struck me as a very romantic atmosphere.

And finally my Fun questions:

Plotter or pantser?


I've written posts about this. I'm a pantser…who is desperately trying to become more of a plotter. I'm hopeful that a little prior planning will help me be more productive during my writing time..

Early Bird or Night Creature?

I am more of a natural night owl. However, now that I don't work third shifts (and haven't for years), I've had to conform to a more normal work schedule. I am definitely slow to get started in the morning. My peak productivity is usually in the late morning.

Which Character are you most like?

I think perhaps Erica from B is for Beach is a character that is perhaps a bit more like me than say Mistress Ven. I certainly dated a lot before I got married so I can identify with the whole first date thing. I also do love the beach at night and it isn't hard to imagine having such an encounter with the right person.

White, Milk or Dark chocolate?

Milk chocolate :-)

Coffee Tea or other?

I don’t care for coffee. I will occasionally drink some herbal tea. I primarily drink water, juice and milk. I have to admit I also drink diet soda….but I'm really trying to stop.

Music or quiet while working?

I like to listen to classical or instrumental music while writing.

Favorite place to sit and write?

Honestly, I don't really have a good workspace. I would like to be a desk with everything I need and minimal distractions. Where I am is in the living room.

Computer or good old pen and paper?

At the moment, I write by typing directly on the computer. Sometimes I use pen and paper to make notes or outline. I would like to try to utilize some voice recognition software to see if I can become more productive.

Pick your poison (alcoholic drink of choice when going out)

When I did drink alcohol, I tended toward sweet drinks. I haven't been drinking for a while since I'm expecting.

Thanks for stopping in Malia,and Congrats on the addition to your family!! It was great to be able to pick your mind and talk dirty about the series! I’m looking forward to the rest and your other works as well!

About Malia Mallory:

Malia Mallory is the author of The ABCs of Erotica series, which includes so far A is for Anal, B is for Beach, C is for C*ck Ring D is for Domination, and now, R is for Revenge. The ABCs of Erotica covers the erotic spectrum from BDSM to ménage and everything in between. More releases in the series are on the way. She has also released Mia's Cop Craving and Santa's Backdoor Baby. She has hit the bestselling erotica lists at both Amazon and iTunes. Her books are available in electronic format at major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and AllRomance Books.

For a free copy of B is for Beach from The ABCs of Erotica, head to her website and sign up for the newsletter at Malia's Mailing List

Connect with Malia Mallory

Twitter
Facebook
Blog
Her Website

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Romancing the Books Blog Hop

Welcome to the Romancing the Books Blog Hop

This Hop is hosted by Delighted Reader and Livre D'Amour . Drop by their blogs for further details!

This hop is relatively simple. I'm giving away a Romance book valued up to $10 USD and a box of Chocolate from a local Chocolate company to a pair of lucky people. One winner gets their choice of the book, the next the box of chocolates. You pick the book, print or eBook and what kind of chocolates you would prefer (depending on availability). All you need to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below...Yes it's That Simple! Plus this is open to international entrants for the book, sadly Chocolates are for US only as I cannot ship those overseas.

Also don't forget comment and to stop at the other participants blogs for other fantastic prizes through the Hop. Their links are below the Rafflecopter widget.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, February 6, 2012

Review: When Copper Suns Fall by KaSonndra Leigh

In fifteen-year-old Chela Prizeon’s city, alchemy is forbidden, and angels hide among the mortal. With a deadly virus ravaging the globe, Chela’s nightmarish memories compels her to experience a past riddled with gloom, and now her brother is infected.

Chela’s only hope is the Caduceans, slayers sworn to protect the last seven Light Keepers and the ancient memories they share. A group led by the sometimes elusive, sometimes infuriating boy who intrigues Chela. But can she trust this boy with the mysterious past, someone who can influence her memories?

With the Caduceans aid, Chela races to defeat her rivals, to unearth dark family secrets, desperate to find a cure…only to discover the glutovirus is far more than a simple disease.

In this haunting debut, KaSonndra Leigh offers an escape into a world as intriguing as The Mortal Instruments and a story as chilling as Enclave. Full of celestial creatures, fascinating villainy, high-stake choices, and a secret romance, When Copper Suns Fall, is a fresh and original urban fantasy—with a dystopian twist—that will take readers on an unforgettable adventure.

Where to buy:

Amazon for $.99

Barnes & Nobles

About KaSonndra Leigh:

KaSonndra Leigh lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, North Carolina. She likes to write about teens doing fantastical things in magical worlds. Her two sons have made her promise to write a boy book next. She holds the MFA in creative writing, and loves to play CLUE, Monopoly (the Indiana Jones version), and Pandora’s Box (good writer’s block therapy). She lives in an L-shaped house with a garden dedicated to her grandmother. It has a secret library complete with fairies, Venetian plastered walls, and a desk made out of clear blue glass.

Where to find KaSonndra Leigh:

Her Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Facebook





Review:

The book starts off with a Creed for the Nation of Corunum which was a little difficult to me to comprehend at first. Corunum is the new America after the Great war which left the world seeking to keep the Caduceans and Tainted at bay. Any person who is found to be one of the two types of creatures is exiled or killed. It is in this new world, where boroughs are created where people now live, that we meet Chela. A fifteen year olf girl who is mourning the soon to be vesselism of her brother Micah who was "infected". Chela is having difficulty adjusting without him, and believes that there is more going on then what everyone sees and knows. Chela is considered gifted since her family has always resided in the boroughs and as such it is also her job to filter in the potential outsiders who are trying to get into the boroughs. Her patience is tested when one of these potentials starts asking way to many complicated and unnerving questions about why the gifted get to do this. She is one amongst many who take ale-meds daily to keep their powers at bay. She is headed to a festival when s is blamed for some damage done to a sellers building, she is send to minders camp where she learns that things aren't what they seem and she must find her place in the world in order to change things.

We are also introduced to a cavalcade of characters and events which turn her world upside down. Including her meeting and intrigue with Faris, who is not what he seems. There are a lot of secondary characters in this story which make it somewhat difficult to keep them sorted out into their respective groups. She learns there is a whole world outside of her borough and that the govenrment is hiding things from the people (hence the dystopian part) that it is a lot to follow. We have many new people who Chela meets and her ever growing group of friends. The story definitely keeps you on your toes and guessing what might happen to her next. I fell in love with Chela's determination to save her brother and find her place. We find out her history and home are deeply rooted in her heritage and find out about her family and what in fact did happen to her brother, Micah. We find out much about her love interest and intrigue with Faris and his history.

The story reads very well once you get into the grove of the fast paced action and can keep in mind who is on which side. It is heavily intriguing and a wonderfully written story about Seraphim, Cherubim, the Caduceans and the Tainted. Her world seems almost magical in thinking that there is a world beyond what we know and perceive. I'd tell you more, but this is one I would recommend reading to get the whole story first hand. I give this a solid 3.5 of 5 rating for her spin on the dystopian twist, her group of characters which draw you in and the action packed plot which is bound to keep you reading.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Feature & Follow #10

Welcome to the Feature & Follow

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow Friday is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday is now hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it’ll allow us to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them “hi” in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

Now to make this #FF interesting we do a FEATURE blogger. If you are interested in becoming a Feature click on the drop down link above FEATURES > Feature & Follow Friday and get on the waiting list! How do you follow someone? Well, if you have a preference, state it in your #FF post. A lot of blogs are transitioning to WordPress in which they do not have the luxury of GFC, so an RSS subscription is appreciated or if you choose an email subscription. If you don’t have GFC please state in your post how you would like to be followed.It is also required, that if you participate you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read) and the two Feature blogs.

Parajunkee's Feature – Jfedlt @ Progress Ans Procrastination

Alison Can Read's Feature - Omnom Books

And now the Random Question of this week:

Define what characteristics your favorite books share. Do they all have a kickass heroine or is the hot love interest the alpha male?

Some series it all about the scorching alpha male like in Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark Hunter series. Or take Gin Blanco from Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series (although with Owen she's got her alpha male *swoon *) it all depends on the book/ series and the characters.