Night Owl Reviews Magazine, Issue 23 by Night Owl Reviews

Night Owl Reviews 3

Q & A with an Author Look into the Lives of Authors

Fabulous Fiction An Inside Look

Urban Fantasy and the Paranormal Hot UF / PN Releases Every Month

Science Fiction & Fantasy A Look Inside the Books

Leaf’s Legends A Look Inside Legends

A Piece Of My Mind Insights for Writers

Dark Streets Suspense at Its Best

Night Owl ReviewsTM WEtap Media, LLC 2459 SE TV HWY, #153, Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 NightOwlReviews@gmail.com Editor-In-Chief: Tammie King Director of Marketing: Tammie King NightOwlReviews@gmail.com © Night Owl Reviews 2011 2

Staying On Top Bestselling Authors Share

Inside the Cookbook Find Some Awesome Cookbooks

Teen Reads Young Adult Reads For All

Love and Romance in Color Diversity in Romance

Novel Technology The Low Down on Tech for Readers

Romance Stories To Make You Fall In Love

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LAURA BRIGGS Current Release: First Bite: The Wicked Queen’s Tale First Bite reweaves the classic story of Snow White from the perspective of its diabolical villainess, one of the greatest in fairy tale lore. Told with the backdrop of magic, mystery, and centuries-old pagan lore, the story of a desperate Queen and an innocent princess is connected to a servant girl’s secret past. As the evil prophecy ripens, their fates merge in an ending only a Magic Mirror could forsee. Please tell us your latest news!

The Latest

We have just released the second volume in our Dark Woods Trilogy. Called Gingerbread House, it is a dark re-telling of the classic Hansel and Gretel story, with a historical twist (and a touch of German opera). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Jane Austen is one of my favorites, simply because her work is groundbreaking and timeless; I would say Charles Dickens is a close second for his Bleak House and A Christmas Carol (my latest romance with White Rose Publishing is a Christmas Carol-esque tale). Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

Prior

I was an English major in college, but always loved books. As a child, I read lots of classics and children’s series and in college was lucky enough to go to England on a class trip. This isn’t always an easy business to succeed in, but I was lucky enough to find a small press who loved my first novella and discover the self-publishing option on Amazon. Please describe your writing environment.

A laptop balanced on my knees, a comfy loveseat, and lots of television for background! I watch everything from British miniseries to cheesy horror films -- the only time I have a “serious” sit-down writing session is with my writing partner to exchange notes or outlines. What book are you reading now? What are your thoughts on it?

I’m currently reading Michelle Davidson Argyle’s “Cinders” -- a sequel to Cinderella about the not-as-happily-ever-after-as-it-seems adventure of the heroine. I like her work and love her blog, as well as her openness to crossing the genre lines. Full Interview at: http://www.nightowlscifi.com/nor/Interviews/ Tamazon-interviews-Laura-Briggs-on-Sep-20-2011.aspx

Night Owl Reviews

FABULOUS FICTION AND THE CONTROVERSIAL NOVEL

family member is gay. My brother came out over 20 years ago. The first few years after that, I hardly spoke to him. I’m not proud of that, but I didn’t know how, at the time, to reconcile faith and family.

Some of the most talked about books are novels that discuss controversy, ethics and other issues where debate is largely popular. Author Jodi Picoult, is known for these types of novels. One of her most well-known titles, My Sister’s Keeper, was made into a movie that sparked debate in households and cafés across America. The sheer magnitude of this novels’ impact was seen in the differences of opinion. Everyone had something to say about the content, making it a popular topic of discussion. Other authors, such as Kathryn Sockett, who wrote The Help, have also been in the spotlight for their discussion inducing works of fiction. One of the newest authors to this genre of fiction is Christa Allan, who wrote The Edge of Grace, a highly controversial novel that discusses homosexuality, but not in the way most would expect. The book is published by Christian publishing house and takes a different approach to the subject of homosexuality by looking through the eyes of a family member. I was able to interview Christa Allan recently and enjoyed discussing this novel so much, I decided to share! I highly recommend reading this book. It was amazing. I ended the book with conflicted emotions and thoughts, just as I did with My Sister’s Keeper. You won’t want to miss this title, enjoy the interview.

What has the response to this book been like from readers? How do people generally misunderstand this book?

What drove you to write this novel?

What drove me to write The Edge of Grace was the void in Christian Fiction regarding the struggle of discovering a

Some readers want to “politicize” the novel; for example, “Is Caryn/Zoe saying people are born gay? Can non-celibate gays be Christians? You’re saying gays should marry?” In his book LOVE IS AN ORIENTATION, Andrew Marin says that to build bridges between Christians and the gay community we need to build bridges by relating based on love as an orientation, not sexuality. And, Marin also refers to Billy Graham’s response when asked why he supported Bill Clinton after his scandal, “It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge, and my job to love.” Then, I’ve had some readers blast the book for being outdated, as in “Seriously? A sister rejecting a gay brother or a gay anyone for that matter?” This slam tends to amuse me as the topics of gay marriage and “Don’t ask, don’t tell” has been all over the news. Apparently, Caryn isn’t the only person in the universe struggling with this in the 21st century. These readers sometimes miss the significance of this novel being published by a Christian publishing house. And then, there are a few readers who bombard me with Bible verses and are generally horrified it was published by a Christian author and a Christian publishing house. Finally, and thankfully, the majority of readers are positive and encouraging. So many have had gay parents, siblings, friends, that they’re

www.NightOwlReviews.com grateful the door to the discussion has finally opened. The book has been endorsed by PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) and, more importantly to me personally, received the utmost support from my brother and his partner. What thrills you about writing? What makes you pick up the pen and keep going in your worst of moments?

Finishing a novel thrills me! The fear of missing a deadline keeps me going. Plus, I believe there’s someone waiting for it--to find comfort, peace, humor or even a challenge to change. What is your ideal writing setting?

I discovered the ideal setting writing this answer! I’m a mess when I write. Papers, notes, books, pens are scattered on the floor around wherever I happen to land that day. So, I’m thinking a semi-circle desk with a rolling chair. I could spread out my stuff and make myself dizzy rolling from one to the other. I’d also like a built-in platform to rise and lower my laptop. Sometimes, I just have to stand and write. A window and a fountain filled with Coke Zero would be nice.

What are you afraid of? I’m afraid of roller coasters, drowning, and hurricanes (only since Katrina).

Name something people shouldn’t leave New Orleans without visiting. That’s a tough one. In no particular order, Mardi Gras, the jazz brunch in the Garden Room of Commander’s Palace, riding the streetcar down St. Charles Avenue, eating poboys at Mother’s, and praline bacon at Elizabeth’s.

Have you ever based a character in your novel on a real person? My characters are like gumbo...a little of that, some of this, a few of those...stir them all together. I don’t base them entirely on one person. Do you have a “first” reader?

My oldest daughter is usually my first set of eyes. But her job’s been keeping her so busy, I’ve had to outsource. I recently found a writing partner, and I feel truly blessed.

Any authors inspire you?

Title of the last book you read?

Yes, Sarah Addison Allen, Elizabeth Berg, F.Scott Fitzgerald Joyce Carol Oates, Ann Patchett.

Meg Wolitzer’s THE TEN YEAR NAP.

Title of a book you are dying to read that’s not yet released.

What challenges you as a writer?

I’m dying to read Joyce Magnin’s new book about a character named Harriet and her travels. It’s out in 2012.

Plotting, elusive words and self-discipline. What challenges you as a woman?

Dividing myself into wife, mother, teacher, author, sister, Grammy, friend. Not to mention endlessly sitting on my butt and feeling it widen with every book.

Talk about something that is making you happy right now. I’m on sabbatical this semester. It’s glorious. It makes me happy every day to not have to grade papers! Tell me something surprising about you.

People are generally surprised to know that I’m a recovering alcoholic (23 years), I also can’t dance. I think those are related.

Why should people read your books?

People should read my books if they want, as my tagline says, “Not your usual Christian fiction.” I tackle tough subjects, but with humor and hope. My husband and children would be grateful, too. -------------------

Tiffany is an avid reader, reviewer and marketing specialist. You can connect with her via the following outlets. Website- http://acozyreaderscorner.blogspot.comTwitter - @cozyreadersnook – Facebook http://www. facebook.com/groups/#!/pages/A-Cozy-Readers-Corner/152514161454295

Night Owl Reviews

FALL IS IN THE AIR

CJ: Strong, sexy, and manipulative.

RR: Can you describe your heroine in one sentence?

Fall is in the air. The scent of caramel apples mingles with maple leaves and bonfires…and the chill in the air makes me want to throw on a sweater- or curl up under a blanket and read a good book. There are plenty of new books to choose from this month. New books in popular series include: Marie Treanor’s Blood Eternal, Book 3 in Awakened by Blood series; Much Ado About Vampires, Dark Ones Book 9 by Katie MacAlister; Vamparazzi, Esther Diamond book 4 by Laura Resnick; The Vengeful Dead, Jackie Rutledge book 2 by J.N. Duncan, Werewolf in the North Woods, Wild About You Book 2 by Vicki Lewis Thompson; Lord of the Wolfyn Royal House of Shadows Book 3 by Jessica Andersen; Darkness Rising , Dark Angels Book 2 by Keri Arthur; and Flesh and Blood, House of Comarré Book 2 by Kristen Painter. My must have books for this month are Wolf at the Door by MaryJanice Davidson and The Hollows Insider by Kim Harrison. Kim Harrison will be signing her new Hollows Insider October 25 at Schuler’s Books in Lansing, Michiganyou better believe I plan on being there :) And if you like anthologies like I do then you’ll have to read: Down These Strange Streets which includes stories by New York Times bestselling authors Charlaine Harris, Patricia Briggs, M.L.N. Hanover and many others; The Real Werewives of Vampire County by Alexandra Ivy, Angie Fox, Tawny Taylor, Jess Haines; A Vampire for Christmas by Caridad Piñeiro, Laurie London, Michele Hauf, and Alexis Morgan; and The Bite Before Christmas (contains stories for series Argeneau Book 15.5 and Night Huntress Book 6.5) by Lynsay Sands and Jeaniene Frost.

CJ: Vivian’s an ancient vampire with a passion for two things: her husband and her inn. RR: Can you describe your hero in one sentence?

CJ: Rafe’s an unflappable and loyal man who knows how to calm his vivacious and dangerous wife, all without her knowing it. RR: What kind of paranormals or paranormal elements are in your book?

CJ: Vampires, werewolves, witches, and some shape-shifters so far. RR: In two sentences or less can you tell readers something unique about your book?

CJ: The V V Inn series combines action, adventure, paranormal, a little mystery, and humor, with a strong erotic element. The story is told as it’s happening (in present tense)—meaning when our heroine sees it for the first time, so does the reader. RR: Can you list list three adjectives that describe your book as a whole? CJ: Erotic, paranormal, mystery.

RR: What’s the heat level of your book?

SUPER QUICK AUTHOR INTERVIEW WITH C.J. ELLISSON

CJ: Hot and spicy with some scenes that will scorch your panties.

RR: Please give us the name of your newest release and the genre it falls under:

RR: And last but not least, where can a reader purchase your book?

CJ: The Hunt, contemporary fantasy

RR: Can you describe your main character in 3 words?

CJ: Amazon, Apple, and B&N, as well as fifty other smaller retailers.

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THE HUNT

by C.J. Ellisson

Vivian thinks she can control every aspect of a deadly game with her usual manipulations… but what if she can’t? Seven vampires and seven werewolves pay to hunt a supernatural criminal across the cold, vast grounds of an Alaskan resort. The one to catch her, and live through the encounter, will increase their power by feasting on hers. The tiny vampire they track is more than she appears, however. To escape a fate of twelve years in silver chains, she’ll do anything to survive the weeklong excursion. This time, the darkness holds more than just the stinging bite of the Arctic—it holds death. Journey along, in this next installment of The V V Inn series, for a wild ride as the tale is told through the eyes of all the new seethe members. Warning: This book contains some explicit sex scenes and is not intended for readers under 18.

FLESH AND BLOOD by Kristen Painter

With the ring of sorrows still missing, and the covenant between othernaturals and mortals broken, Chrysabelle and Malkolm’s problems are just beginning. Chrysabelle still owes Malkolm for his help, but fulfilling that debt means returning to Corvinestri, the hidden vampire city neither of them is welcome in.

The discovery that Chrysabelle has a brother could mean reneging on her promise to Malkolm, something that might make him angry enough to loose the beast living inside him. And fulfilling her vow could prove devastating for Chrysabelle --- especially when you throw in power hungry witches, dead fringe vampires, and the Kubai Mata.

Night Owl Reviews SUPER QUICK AUTHOR INTERVIEW WITH JENNIFER HARLOW

SUPER QUICK AUTHOR INTERVIEW WITH ERI NELSON AUTHOR OF THE DEARHART CLAN

RR: Name of your newest release and genre/category it falls into:

RR: Please name of your newest release and genre/category it falls into

JH: Mind Over Monsters, A F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad Investigation, Paranormal Mystery

EN: Dearhart Clan Vol.1 “The Call From Within” Adult/Paranormal Romance/Erotic

JH: Beatrice Alexander is a telekinetic former elementary schoolteacher who ends up fighting off a hundred zombies with a machete.

EN: Dark, Erotic, Powerful

RR: Can you describe your heroine in one sentence?

RR: Can you describe your main character in 3 words?

RR: Can you describe your heroine in one sentence?

RR: Can you describe your hero in one sentence?

EN: Barely living before the flame of her desires were formed in a single imprinting.

JH: Will Price is a no-nonsense werewolf who leads the team in the field and in spite of himself he finds himself attracted to Bea, throwing off his equilibrium. Vying for her affection is Oliver Montrose, Lothario vampire who, despite his shallow presentation, lies a good soul.

RR: Can you describe your hero in one sentence?

EN: Born to duty and brought to life by a single woman.

RR: What kind of paranormals or paranormal elements are in your book?

EN: Werewolves and Shapeshifters

JH: I have a telekinetic, teleporter, medium, psychometric, pyrokinetic, werewolf, and vampire fighting an army of zombies and ghouls controlled by a necromancer. There’s something for everyone.

RR: Without giving away details, Can you describe one interesting scene in your book in less than two sentences? EN: With an in-human roar the door front was filled with an unrecognizable champion; sounds of the un-identifiable figure’s heavy pounding feet began rushing forward. It was then that one quivering woman look onward at her unknown hero as he took on the glorified horrors that approached through the night.

RR: What is one unique thing about the book readers might find interesting?

JH: I’m a wiseass, always have been and always will be. My characters reflect that trait of mine with witty banter like an old 1940s movies. Think Rosalind Russell and Cary Grant if Roz could kill you with her mind and Cary wanted to suck her blood.

RR: In two sentences or less can you tell readers something unique about your book?

RR: Can you give us three adjectives that describe the book as a whole?

EN: Dearhart Clan is a series of fast paced books that dabble in the world of paranormal and remain in the erotic pulse of what can only be classified as a primal fantasy. If it’s a typical romance you’re looking for you won’t find it in this series.

JH: To quote the wonderful Kat Richardson, author of the Greywalker novels, it’s “funny, scary, and creepy—and ridiculous amounts of fun.” Couldn’t have said it better myself.

RR: Can you list three adjectives that describe your book as a whole?

RR: What’s the heat level of Mind Over Monsters?

EN: Dark, Primal, Erotic

JH: Fun and flirty. I’m a thrill of the chase kind of gal, at least this time around.

RR: What’s the heat level of your book?

RR: Where can readers find your book?

EN: Scorch your panties hot

RR: And last but not least, where can a reader purchase your book?

JH: The book is available at most book stores and in e-book form.

EN: Amazon

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MIND OVER MONSTERS by Jennifer Harlow

Beatrice Alexander is no ordinary schoolteacher—she can move objects with her mind, an embarrassing skill she hasn’t yet mastered or embraced. After nearly killing her brother by accident, she joins the F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad, the Federal Response to Extra-Sensory and Kindred Supernaturals. This top-secret branch of the FBI combats ghosts, ghouls, and other monsters threatening humanity. With her teammates—among them a handsome formerdetective werewolf and an annoying Don Juan vampire who’s dead-set on seducing her—Beatrice investigates her first case. Disgustingly dismembered bodies have turned up, bearing bite marks of the undead. Someone—or something—is raising a horde of hideous, bloodthirsty zombies. Armed with Bette, her trusty machete, Beatrice takes on the master of the flesh-devouring corpses, who’s guarding a horrifying secret . . . Featuring a team of monster hunters with unique paranormal abilities, the F.R.E.A.K.S. Squad Investigation series combines humor, suspense, and supernatural crime-fighting.

THE CALL FROM WITHIN: DEARHART CLAN SERIES by Eri Nelson

The Call From Within is Eri Nelson’s first look into this series. It is here that we meet Owen our Pack’s clan leader. He has been driven by what is expected of an alpha. Facts that were told through the decades all but look like fiction to him now. So he never dared to believe in fate and only let duty push him forth. Although now his resolves make no sense and it took little to no time at all in showing him through the lust he feels for another. Kristen Still bares the imprinted mark to our handsome alpha. However he wasn’t the first to notice what she was and it’s that bedding of prior passions that control her new weakness. Yes, Owen is pushed by jealousy to possess what his four footed insight tells him is his. A former distraction wanted more than heated moments with Kristen. In her he saw a stronger life force for his young and if Brinston Drake must he would take what he needs from her. He just didn’t foresee another finding her as well. 9

Night Owl Reviews

Soul Born by Kevin J. Breaux is a fantasy novel set around a mage in training, a warrior who is to fight an evil tyrant warlord but suffers from memory problems of another life and a banished elf who finds herself in the center of a human war. A mysterious warlord embarks on a conquest to destroy the lands of Illyia and now Opal, a mage who wants to be more, uses this as an opportunity to step in what she hopes is to be her new role. The story has a few twists and the characters are later revealed to not be what you expected about half way through the book. The story is pretty detailed on world building, but the writing can be a bit off at times and things get a tad too easy for characters to get out of trouble. It has an interesting story and I will be interested to see what happens in the sequel. Recommended for fans of fast-paced fantasy that has lots of characterization with plenty of motives and agendas that centers around three characters instead of just one. I give it 3.5 stars.

other supporting characters to organize a resistance/ rebellion while they wait on the goddess to grow into her powers. Their backgrounds and choices of all the characters were interesting with long-term ramifications that each must deal with while trying to defeat Tamghat. An interesting and unique spin on a goddess who must grow into her powers and help her people while having her new protector learn to cope with the madness of the Blackdog persona. Recommended for fans of epic fantasy with more of an Eastern twist to the gods/goddess mythology in fantasy. I would give it four stars as it kept me reading all night long instead of sleeping which is one of the best compliments I can give a book.

Blackdog by K.V. Johansen is a new epic fantasy that centers on remote mountain goddess, Attalissa, and her protector, Otokas. Otokas is an old warrior possessed by the mad spirit of The Blackdog whose single goal is to protect his goddess. Attalissa is currently embodied as a young child and even when she gets older, she is not expected to be as all powerful as other gods and goddesses which is a nice switch compared to many fantasies I have read. She has no grand design to take over or protect the entire world; just her villages and people are of her and Otokas’ concern. Unfortunately, a warlord and his army have arrived on their land and invade. They must flee to keep Attalissa from being ‘devoured”. This sets in motion events that will cause the spirit of the Blackdog to be passed on to a new warrior from a foreign land who was travelling nearby. The story begins with lots of action and world building that keeps you fascinated as the author brings in various

Fenrir by M.D. Lachlan is the sequel to Wolfsangel. You do not have to have read the first book to understand the sequel, but I would still recommend doing so as I enjoyed the first book. The story begins as Paris is under attack by various Viking armies. The people do not understand why the Count of Paris does not stop the invaders, especially if he has ambitions to be Emperor of the Franks. The Vikings want the Count’s sister and they will spare the rest of the city. While the Count’s conscience demands one thing, the demands of state demands another. The Count and the Church instead plan have the blind and crippled saint, Jehan of St. Germain to help them instead. But the Vikings have their own gods. And outside their camp a terrifying brother and sister, priests of Odin, have their own agenda. An agenda of darkness and madness. And in the shadows a wolfman lurks. An awesome, dark adventure story that brings the Norse Gods to Paris while the tragic Fenrir struggles with his own beast and his place in the story of Raghornok, the end of the world. Recommend for fans of Wolfsangel and fans of sword and sorcery with historical fiction blended in. I give this one four stars and look forward to seeing the series to continue.

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VAMPIRES! October is here again and with it the holiday that brings out celebrities, movie characters and creatures of all varieties. Those may vary according to the area in which you live, but one safe bet to come knocking on your door is a creature who wants to put the bite on you…a vampire. Vampires have been around a lot longer than Bram Stoker’s take on the undead creations. They are mythological or folkloric beings who subsist by feeding on the life essence of the living. Most are after the blood, others are credited with sucking energy from their victims. Vampire type beings have been recorded in various cultures and possibly go back to prehistoric eras. But the rise of the undead superstitions in Western Europe brought the term vampire to popularity. The increase of the superstition in many places led to mass hysteria, and the staking of corpses, along with finger pointing at a lot of individuals wandering around. Vampires in the Balkans and Eastern Europe ranged from walking undead to bloated, rotting corpses. It wasn’t until John Polidori’s 1819 novella The Vamprye that they developed some of the character we associate with them today. His book launched the portrayal of a sophisticated, charismatic individual who can seduce their way into homes and beds, at times, even being invited to take a neck nibble. There were other books in the 1800s inspired by Polidori, but it took Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1897 to give us the basis for modern vampire fiction and generate the vampire genre of today’s fiction. Thanks to Mr. Stoker, we have vampires in all aspects of entertainment. In books, the creatures of the night can now walk around during the day, though preferable in shaded spots or on cloudy days, sustain a lifestyle on synthetic blood and cross-bred with humans and other immortals. Then there are the movies and television shows that feed our thirst for the undead. Some come to life to the point we want to invite them to our neighborhood parties and hang out as friends. Others we wished lived next door to someone we would be delighted to hear had been sucked dry… as long as they weren’t turned into a vampire too. And don’t forget the video games where endless hours can be spent hunting, fighting and staking the creatures before they can take a bite out of you. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the first appearance of the English word vampire was in 1734, in the travelogue Travels of Three English Gentlemen. The English term possibly derived from the German vampir. Other possibilities are via the French

vampyre, along with other forms of the word from various other languages in Europe. No matter what word was used in the various cultures, they all had similar descriptions. In most cases, the creatures were revenants of evil beings, suicide victims or witches. They could also be created by a malevolent spirit occupying a corpse of by being bitten by vampire. When it came to appearance, they were usually bloated and had a ruddy complexion. The healthy glow came from drinking all that blood of a living human or animal. Vampires could be identified through various rituals, depending on the culture. One method used to find a vampire’s grave involved leading a virgin boy through a graveyard on a virgin stallion. If the horse balked at a grave, then guess what or who was buried there? Another indication was holes appearing in the earth over a grave. The vampire has to have some way to get out, right? Once the vampire is discovered, the staking method to ensure they don’t rise is the most familiar one used. The wood of choice is ash, hawthorn or oak, depending on the region. Also, the heart is the area on the body to pound in the wood, but in Russia and northern German, the throat was the target. In north-eastern Serbia, the stomach the body part of choice. Other methods include piercing the skin to deflate the body, burying sharp objects with the corpse so if they roll over they self-deflate. Decapitation in some countries assured the living wouldn’t be bothered. Some areas burned the body and mixed the ashes with water for the family members to drink as a cure in case they’d been contaminated. Yuk…think I’d rather stay a vampire. The history on the legend and folklore about the undead has terrified and entertained us for centuries. In today’s world, some view vampires as blood thirsty monsters, while others think hot guy or gal that lead their mind down the path of lust. But, it’s probably safe to say the one standing at your door Halloween night holding their bag out to you as they flash their fangs isn’t there for the blood…they’ll take candy instead. ---------Award winning author, Lizzie T. Leaf enjoys writing Paranormal/ Fantasy with a twist of humor. Emerging Magic, the second book in the Magical Love series is set to release late August or early September by Passion in Print Press. www.lizzietleaf.com

Night Owl Reviews

The Thirteen Things No One Tells You About Being an Author My friend Lee Ann is an author. Well, many friends of mine are A very good friend of mine in the music industry told me writers, authors, editors, publisher and the like. That what hap- this more than seven years ago and I’ve never forgotten. In the pens when you are in the business for almost thirty years? nine months or so since my first novel emerged into the world She is the author of many novels, short stories and e-books, last December 29, six full length e-Book novels, two out in paincluding the novels Love Tattoo and Love Scars. If, after you perback, multiple anthologies and more coming, I will say he’s read this column and want to look her up, please do! right. No matter what you expect, the experience is like a fast Also Lee Ann writes a biweekly blog called A Page in The Life. roller coaster ride so hang on. If you have not read her insightful insights, You Should! She is very down to earth in what she says. What amazes me is that 2. You will work your butt off. she impresses me with her simple common sense approach to In our daydreams, our fantasies about the day we make the the career of writing. Her blog covers the real life of a writer leap from writer or would-be writer to published author, not who also is a mother and a many of us think about the wife. To me, her blog is a realrealities but dream about best ity check, sometimes even for If you don’t love promotion, learn to seller lists, talk show appearme! I should thank her for that ances and fat bank accounts. suck it up and do it anyway. reality check . . . Wait a second, Whether or not an individual I just did that! author ever attains any of that, Well I was reading her blog the one thing you can count on in September; I read this piece of about items no one tells you is that you will work your butt off. Writing is just the beginas an author. I was IMPRESSED! With all the writing advice I ning, then editing, then often more editing, then promotion, read and have given over the years, it takes a lot to impress me. promotion, promotion. So I emailed her. Asking her if I can reprint this blog article in my Night Owl column. Her comment was like the beautiful 3. People will think you’re either rich or delusional. southern lady she is. She replied “Awesome! Please feel free You’ll find that some people in your community, once they to. I’m honored.” And I am honored and blessed to share these realize that you have a book or books out there will wink and inspiring words with all of you . . . there are a few comment make comments about your wealth as if we all start out with asides from me in there to. . . hey it is MY column! six figure advances. Or, the general public will look askance at By the way, Lee Ann, when are you reprinting some of these you and decide if they know you, you can’t be a “real” author so interesting blog posts into a book. They are so that good. it must be a bunch of made-up crap. (Bennet Note. I remember **************************** doing a career day in a middle school a few years ago. After I presented, the kids were able to ask questions. This young man The Thirteen Things No One Tells You About Being an stood up from his seat said (and I quote) “All you writers are Author - By Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy rich and famous, so why haven’t heard about you?” It was like a kick in my stomach. That was a day I will always remember. Well, maybe almost no one. I’ve had the privilege to get good, When I get too cocky, those words play in my mind and consound advice from other authors and it makes an amazing diftinue to humble me) ference. So for today’s Thursday Thirteen, I thought I’d share my baker’s dozen of things that most authors won’t ever tell 4. If you don’t love promotion, learn to suck it up and do it you on the way up… anyway. I came out of a background in broadcast radio and writing 1. When it happens, it will happen fast. ad copy so the notion of promotion wasn’t as strange to me as

www.NightOwlReviews.com to some authors. If you’re lucky enough to sign with the Big Six, you might get someone to do a lot of the PR for you but for most of us, if we don’t promote, no one else will. I am so thankful for the other author friends and colleagues who help promote my stuff and I return the favor whenever I can. But the reality is if you don’t promote, your works will fall out of sight fast.

ing if they read it or if they confused it with something else.

9. Be a good juggler especially if you have a family at home. I’ve been a working mom outside the home but believe me, working at home isn’t easy and it presents more challenges. When you work at a “real” job, your kids know they can’t call or text you on a whim or ask you to bring that folder they forget to school or pick up their pictures at the pharmacy. Because you’re home, they expect you’re going to cook meals, make brownies, clean the bathroom, and all that . . . no matter how many deadlines loom in your personal windshield. And don’t forget school events, etc.

5. If you work at home (as I do) most people will think you’re at leisure. This includes well-meaning school staff who, if you have children, thinks you should be able to come cut out colored letters or shapes for their teachers, play hostess at teas, be a room mother, run a book fair etc. It includes organization who thinks you have all the free time in the world and family who thinks that you’re a one stop babysitter, listening ears, chef, and bottle washer. (Bennet Note, My Mother still thinks I sit at home and is just PLAYING on the computer for six to eight hours a day. When she sees a column in a magazine in print, she always asks “When did you do this?” I think she assumes the elves write it when I am asleep)

10. People will want freebies. It amazes me how many people think I should be handing out copies of my books, especially the paperbacks, like free samples at the supermarket. I wouldn’t expect my favorite local restaurant to give me free meals, my doctor to offer free checkups, a bookstore to just give me a brand-new book, the florist to hand me a bouquet of roses because they like me or the supermarket to let me carry out steaks or seafood so maybe I’ll buy more later. I do give out a few books to a few special people but I don’t get an unlimited supply of free books and please don’t expect me to give everyone I’ve ever known a copy!

6. The first time you head out in public, wearing your oldest jeans with the rip in the knee, that stretched out of shape Tshirt and hair streaming in tangles, that’s when someone will recognize you. It never fails - rush out on an errand that should take a few minutes and run into someone who says “Oh my God, I read your book, it’s great” all the while staring at you like you just grew a second head and you know they’re going to go blab that the “great author” dresses in rags and doesn’t care how she looks. (Bennet Note I was shopping at a grocery store a few weeks after I did the Danny Queen’sColor Me Poetry TV show. I did not know the show had aired. I was a tie dye T-shirt and ripped jeans. The Checkout girl said “You’re the celebrity from the Queen show!”:I wanted to crawl into a hole and die since she said it louder than a PA announcement and everyone in the store was now looking at me)

11. No matter how well you write (or think you do) your work will be edited It’s a reality and rather than gripe, whine, or bitch about it, learn to appreciate what the fine hand of a good editor does for your work. I see so many authors who act like their work has been desecrated by an editor when in reality, an editor enhances and makes your work better. As I told a fellow author - who happens to be a Catholic sister from my parish at a local author’s faire, editing teaches me to writer cleaner and better. (Bennet note–I had a great editor who was editing my work. The only problem was he and I had a large friendly discussion over the phone for hour, whether Eagles SWOOPED or DIVED . . . I still say SWOOPED!)

7. Your family is divided between lukewarm and major cheerleaders. Within my extended family, I have those who aren’t at all impressed with what I do for a living or the books I’ve written or what I’ve done. I’m still just “Lee Ann,” that bratty little kid, smart talking teen or whatever. On the flip side, those relatives who I value the most, are among my biggest cheerleaders, proud and happy, ready to do whatever it takes. Some of my dedications mention this - and when “Guy’s Angel” comes out next year, the dedication will mention cousins and others who helped make it possible. (Bennet Note-My late father, until the day he died, would tell me, “Why don’t you get a real job?” I would tell him I had a real job, I am a WRITER and a columnist . . . He didn’t buy and said “You don’t have a nine to five-job” . . . later he was amazed when someone told him about his son the writer) 8. Sooner or later you will get a review that makes you wonder if the reviewer even read the book. ( Bennet note-I have read and reviewed Lee Ann’s books and they are very good) Yes, it will happen. Among the great reviews, the not so great, you’ll get at least one that describes your book in a weird way that leaves you scratching your head and wonder-

12. Some people will love your work, some will hate it. You will never get a 100% love thing going. It’s not possible. Even the most popular, best-selling big name authors have their detractors and you will too. I’m often accused by some of writing “dirty books” or any number of other less than positive comments. That’s balanced; however, by those who do like the books but you can’t let the naysayers bring you down. Everyone has them.

13. If you don’t treat writing like a real job, it won’t be one. If I have a secret to my so-called success, this is it. When I decided that I could approach writing each day with the same dedication, devotion, and diligence I’ve given to outside employment, good things began to happen. That means you work every day, you finish all tasks, you don’t play around even when the only boss watching is yourself, and you work hard. ***************************

Thank you Lee Ann for the great advice.

So until next time, Reach for the Stars

Night Owl Reviews

Smokin’ Seventeen

killer’s list. Short on time to find evidence proving the killer’s identity, Stephanie faces further complications when her family and friends decide that it’s time for her to choose between her longtime off-again-on-again boyfriend, Trenton cop Joe Morelli, and the bad boy in her life, security expert Ranger. Stephanie’s mom is encouraging Stephanie to dump them both and choose a former high school football star who’s just returned to town. Stephanie’s sidekick, Lula, is encouraging Stephanie to have a red-hot boudoir “bake-off.” And Grandma Bella, Morelli’s oldworld grandmother, is encouraging Stephanie to move to a new state when she puts “the eye” on Stephanie. With a cold-blooded killer after her, a handful of hot men, and a capture list that includes a dancing bear and a senior citizen vampire, Stephanie’s life looks like it’s about to go up in smoke.

A Janet Evanovich novel starring Stephanie Plum is always a joy to behold! I’ve been a fan of this series since it debuted with ONE FOR THE MONEY, and have read each in succession! I love the way Janet combines humor with suspense and gets the perfect blend! Each successive Stephanie Plum novel is betterthan the last, and the constant battle between the two men in Stephanie’s life, Morelli andRanger, for her affections is always entertaining. Will they or won’t they? Who will she choose? It would bepretty hard for me, I can tell you that. Not to mention the rest of the rich cast of characters with which Evanovich fills the novels: Lula, for one, is always a gas, and who wouldn’t want a gun-totin’ granny like Grandma Mazur? I, for one, cannot wait for the movie starring Katherine Heigl (release date: January 27, 2012). They have a great cast assembled and it looks as if the movie will parallel the book closely. And casting Debbie Reynolds as Grandma Mazur was nothing short of inspired! And now, for my review :)

My Review:

The Story:

Where there’s smoke there’s fire, and no one knows this better than New Jersey bounty hunter Stephanie Plum. Dead bodies are showing up in shallow graves on the empty construction lot of Vincent Plum Bail Bonds. No one is sure who the killer is, or why the victims have been offed, but what is clear is that Stephanie’s name is on the

A Stephanie Plum novel is always a treat, and this one is no exception. Filled with the humor we’ve come to expect from Evanovich, the book takes us through the twists and turns of Stephanie’s life as she tries to make a decision between Morelli and Ranger while fighting off the advances of a guy her m other thinks is just perfect for her, and juggling her usual “skips” in the interim. As usual, Lula provides excellent comic relief and even though I did guess the identity of the serial killer early on, Smokin’ Seventeen is just that – Smokin good fun and a must for all Evanovich/ Plum fans!

www.NightOwlReviews.com Complete list of Stephanie Plum novels (don’t have to be read in order, but they are best that way :) ONE FOR THE MONEY TWO TO GET DEADLY THREE FOR THE DOUGH FOUR TO SCORE HIGH FIVE HOT SIX SEVEN UP HARD EIGHT TO THE NINES

SUSPENSE

TENBIG ONES ELEVEN ON TOP TWELVESHARP LEAN M EAN THIRTEEN FEARLESS FOURTEEN FINGER LICKIN’ FIFTEEN SIZZLIN’ SIXTEEN SMOKIN’ SEVENTEEN EXPLOSIVE EIGHTEEN

EXPLOSIVE EIGHTEEN

Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s life is set to blow sky high when international murder hits dangerously close to home, in this dynamite novel by Janet Evanovich. Before Stephanie can even step foot off Flight 127 Hawaii to Newark, she’s knee deep in trouble. Her dream vacation turned into a nightmare, and she’s flying back to New Jersey solo. Worse still, her seatmate never returned to the plane after the L.A. layover. Now he’s dead, in a garbage can, waiting for curbside pickup. His killer could be anyone. And a ragtag collection of thugs and psychos, not to mention the FBI, are all looking for a photograph the dead man was supposed to be carrying. Only one other person has seen the missing photo— Stephanie Plum. Now she’s the target, and she doesn’t intend to end up in a garbage can. With the help of an FBI sketch artist Stephanie re-creates the person in the photo. Unfortunately the first sketch turns out to look like Tom Cruise, and the second sketch like Ashton Kutcher. Until Stephanie can improve her descriptive skills, she’ll need to watch her back. Over at the bail bonds agency things are going from bad to worse. The bonds bus serving as Vinnie’s temporary HQ goes up in smoke. Stephanie’s wheelman, Lula, falls in love with their largest skip yet. Lifetime arch nemesis Joyce Barnhardt moves into Stephanie’s apartment....

IN HARDBACK - NOVEMBER 2011

By Toni LoTempio – admin by day, writer by night, Toni is the author of several paperback and e-books of romantic and paranormal suspense – check out her website at www.tonilotempio.webs.com and her cat’s blog! www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com Check out her YA fantasy, MY SUPERHERO SISTER and her paranormal romances, NO REST FOR THE WICCA and RAVEN’S KISS. She is also featured in the paranormal romance anthology, KISS ME KILL ME, available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

SUSPENSE

Night Owl Reviews

IRIS JOHANSEN

publish it for their Loveswept line and did I have any other manuscripts that they could see. Magic, indeed. How long does it take to finish a book, including edits?

Hi Readers,

This month I’m pleased to introduce you to Iris Johansen. Iris’ latest novel BONNIE is a thrilling third installment in a suspense series. How did you get into writing? How long ago?

I started writing when I was a child in fourth grade and it began as school assignments and then I became fascinated by storytelling. It was natural that I’d go in that direction because I was a voracious reader even at that age. But I never really had an ambition to have anything published during my school years. It was just a wonderful hobby. I wrote because I loved to write. Then, after I was out of school, life got in the way and I was busy with earning a living, marriage, raising two children. Writing faded into the background. I was lucky if I had time to read. Years passed, life changed again. Nothing stays the same, does it? I was divorced, my kids were in high school and I realized that I’d face that dreaded empty nest in the future. I had to carve out a fulfilling new life for myself. I started to write again and I found that something else had changed. With maturity the casual enjoyable hobby had become a passion. Did you receive many rejections before publishing your first book? I received only one rejection when I started submitting to publishers. My first books were romances and Dell refused my first submission. Then I sent the book to Bantam and I received that magic call that they loved it and wanted to

How long it takes me to write a book depends on the length, complications and the amount of research involved. I’m considered a prolific and fast writer because I become caught up in the story and it usually takes fire and almost writes itself. The time involved varies from six to eight months to three or four depending on the circumstances. What is your writing process like? This includes brainstorming, whether you follow an outline or just write what you come up with, if you like to write a book from beginning to end or just jump scenes and fit it together in the end, and your routine when writing.

My writing process is very simple and peculiarly my own. I get the kernel of an idea, get a handle on the characters and then I start to write. No outline, no synopsis. I wish with all my heart that I could write from outline. It would be so much easier for me than writing by the seat of my pants. I can’t do it. It doesn’t work for me. Sometimes I don’t know what the characters are going to do in the next chapter. I just have to trust that the story is unfolding the way it should and the characters aren’t going to pull any shenanigans that throw me out into the stratosphere. Because of my writing process I have to write the book from beginning to end. It would be impossible to be coolly calculating about the storytelling. The only time I might skip a scene is if it is an action scene and I’m having

www.NightOwlReviews.com trouble about the choreography. I have a tendency to be eager to find out what’s beyond the action but I go back to the order almost immediately. My routine is that I’m at the computer by eight in the morning, work until lunch and then go back and write most of the afternoon. I take an occasional day off but weekends are included in that schedule. I like to work. It’s no hardship. What is the perfect environment for your Muse to be active?

I don’t know if I have a muse. I wouldn’t presume. I’m just a writer who loves what she does and tries to be professional. My surroundings are usually chaotic. I have music on but it’s to drown out barking dogs and people laughing and talking, not to inspire me. Do you, or have you, ever mixed genres or branched out from your normal writing genre? I mix genres all the time. When I was writing romances I threw in an extra-terrestrial plot line and paranormal is very common for me. I had shadings of vampires in one of the Eve books. I love all the genres and I think that pulling and combining them makes any book richer and more intriguing. Readers have too many rules they have to go by in their lives, why not let them step out of the box and be surprised?

Do you ever have to deal with writer’s block? If so, how do you overcome it? No, if I don’t feel like writing I write anyway. Within a few pages I’m deep in the story. What are you currently working on?

I’ve just finished a Catherine Ling book What Doesn’t Kill You. You’ll remember her from the trilogy. She was so fascinating I had to give her a book of her own. I’m now working on the next Eve Duncan and I’m very excited about it. I’m introducing a new character, Kendra Michaels, and I guarantee she’s

going to surprise you.

What are your hobbies when you aren’t writing? I’m very boring. I read, I go to the theater, I have eight dogs and they keep me busy. What is your dream vacation?

I like quiet places these days. I’ve traveled all over the world and occasionally I’ll find a new place I’d like to explore. But usually I prefer a mountain house or a place right on the beach that I can share with good friends and family. It’s people who are important, not the place. A perfect vacation is one that takes everyone away from their normal life and forces them to forget the stress they face every day and just talk and laugh and remember why they love each other. What could be more perfect than that? What is one thing about you that your readers don’t know.

I’m fairly transparent and I have no great mysteries in my life. Perhaps one thing that most people don’t know about me is that every year one of those vacations I mentioned is spent with three wonderful friends I have known for decades. Our friendship and writing careers started out at the same time and we’re still the best of friends and have a very special bond. Linda Howard, Catherine Coulter and Kay Hooper are not only true and loyal friends but are three of publishing’s finest writers. Our time together each year enriches me. How do you come up with ideas and characters for your books? Ideas come from everywhere around me. Life, dreams, media. I got the plot for Face of Deception from a documentary on forensic sculpting. From that kernel the Eve Duncan series was born. Characters are never planned. They emerge gradually from the plot and the background necessary to tell the story. The ideal situation is if the character unfolds for me at the same time it does for the reader.

Night Owl Reviews

Celebrating Cupcakes and Muffins by Michal Moses

If cupcakes could talk, they’d say “Let’s party!” With over 75 mouthwatering recipes for celebrating goodness, this book presents cupcakes and muffins to please anyone who loves classic, healthy, savory or gourmet tastes. The Cupcakes section offers basic cupcake recipes, basic frostings and specific recipes for Cupcakes that Cuddle (for celebrating people we love), Cupcake Calendar (holidays), Cupcakes that Care (for people with special diets: gluten free, sugar free, dairy free), and Conscious Cupcakes (keeping in mind our health). The Muffins section provides basic muffin recipes, plus unique recipes for Muffins That Mean Something (for people we love & special occasions), Muffin Mania (savory muffins you haven’t seen before), and Muffins That Mom Allows (healthy).

Hello, Cupcake!

by Karen Tack , Alan Richardson

Witty, one-of-a-kind imaginative cupcake designs using candies from the local convenience store. America’s favorite food photography team, responsible for the covers of America’s top magazines, shows how to create funny, scary, and sophisticated masterpieces, using a zipper lock bag and common candies and snack items.With these easy-to-follow techniques, even the most kitchen-challenged cooks can

No baking skills or fancy pastry equipment is required. Spotting the familiar items in the hundreds of brilliant photos is at least half the fun.

Muffin Magic: Irresistible Recipes for Individual Treats by Susannah Blake

Most people’s appetite for cake knows no bounds, so here comes a new volume devoted entirely to delicious muffins. Muffins are portable, freezable, quick to make, and impossible to resist. A savory muffin can be a complete meal-in-one, while a fruit-packed treat, warm from the oven, is the perfect snack. Packed with baking tips, captivating new recipes, striking photography, and delightful illustrations, this book provides ideas for sweet and savory, children’s and adult’s, seasonal and special occasion muffins. Taking some favorite features from Cupcake Magic, all the cakes and muffins are made with free-range eggs, and a section devoted to ingredients and equipment helps every baker be fully prepared.

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Zombi Cupcakes Halloween is, by far, my favorite holiday. It’s a license to gorge on candy, dress according to your wildest imagination and scare all who comes to your door. What’s not to like? I see a cupcake craze taking over. What used to be birthday food for kid’s parties is now on menus across the nation. And the prices…oh my. Three to four dollars per cupcake is the norm. A dollar cake mix and a few bucks for frosting and you can make your own fairly cheap. Of course this new trend brings complicated designs that take forever to create but only a few minutes to eat. That brings us to Zombie Cupcakes by Zilly Rosen. The cover is fabulous. A bride and groom in a graveyard with the bride holding a bloody knife? I love it. The table of contents has pictures. Oh my gosh, you know I love pictures but I’ve never seen them for every recipe in the contents before. Kudos to you, book layout person. The book starts out with some simple recipes and tips on how to work with fondue. This is a great addition since all aren’t familiar with that sugary goodness. At first glance there are a good many small words in each recipe but if you break it down you’ll see these recipes aren’t tricky at all. A skull difficulty rating tops each page. How ingenius. As you look at the toxic bite cupcake recipe you’ll see step-by-step illustrations showing you how to create these seemingly bloody blobs. Love it. I was amazed to find that every recipe follows the same format. Not only is the finished product pictured but the simple steps are as well. Green boxes on the left side of the page maneuver your brain to think about trivia- zombie trivia. The answers are in the back of the book. Another great addition. Who wants to get stuck on a trivia question and not know where to find the answer? Not me.

I recommend rushing out to buy this one before fall, and Halloween, is done and over. Featured Recipe: Dark Chocolate Ganache Enough to cover 12-14 cupcakes -2 ¾ cups of mini semisweet chocolate chips -2 cups of heavy cream -1 tsp unsalted butter

Put the chocolate chips in a large heatproof bowl. Bring the cream to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Just before the cream comes to a full boil, pour the cream onto the chocolate chips and whisk together until smooth. Add the butter and stir until smooth and shiny. Place plastic wrap directly over the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then let stand at room temperature overnight to cool. Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three weeks.

less than fun!***

***At first I thought these recipes were cute but way too hard for the average baker. After seeing how they are broken down into small ‘bites’, pictures included, I know I could attempt any recipe in this book. I urge you to let your children assist with these recipes as well. From young to old, this recipe book is nothing

Looking forward: Next month I’ll be reviewing The Ellis Island Immigrant Cookbook. I’ve already previewed this one and mmm, mmm, there’s some good eating to be had with these recipes. Pamela Reviewer/Freelance Writer www.thefantasticfoodie.wordpress.com

Night Owl Reviews

You are probably already feeling the wind get that crisp chill that signals the arrival of autumn. The leaves are probably starting to turn, if not already falling from the trees. I love this time of year, not only is the weather beautiful but the books are great too. So, here is a nice list of books to read while snuggled in your favorite reading nook with your favorite fall beverage and nice warm socks.

• The Name of the Star by: Maureen Johnson – This is a dark ghost story by an author whose books are always impossible to put down. • The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer – This is a new take on an old tale. Girl wakes up with no memory, shenanigans ensue. Slow start but a great fall read.

• Soul Screamers Volume One by: Rachel Vincent – This is a omnibus of her Soul Screamers novels, the first three, this series is for those who don’t want the usual shifters and vampires.

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• Beautiful Creatures/Beautiful Darkness/Beautiful Chaos by: Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl – These are dark books with legends, witches, destinies, and romance. If you haven’t started the series, definitely start them. Not to mention how beautiful they are to look at. The Scorpio Races by: Maggie Steifvater – Ms.

• Bloodlines by: Richelle Mead –Also a new paranormal to enjoy as you watch the leaves fall and drink cocoa and pumpkin lattes.

There are so many excellent books coming out through the fall and into the winter. Make sure to start saving your pennies, building your Christmas lists, and taking pictures in your phone for future gains. It’s going to be a crowded market with lots to read when the snow starts to fall.

• Matched/Crossed by: Ally Condie – These are dystopian novels to the max but the writing is so beautiful you won’t be able to read anything else until you have finished them.

•

Steifvater is finally putting out something new and minus the Mercy Falls werewolves. Check out this new book for some of the most lyrical yet compelling writing you have ever read.

Monica is a lover of books and is currently serving her countery abroad! Find her online at The Bibliophilic Book Blog: http://www.bibliophilicbookblog.com

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THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT Where did the year go? It’s already fall, and soon the beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges of fallen leaves will litter the ground in advance of the winter months. With the fall comes Halloween, a holiday whose popularity is second only to Christmas. Not to mention it’s the only time of the year that we can wear costumes in public and no one will judge us and think we’re strange. The paranormal and suspense genres are perfect for getting you in the mood for Halloween, and no doubt you’re already seeing the promotion of Halloween anthologies and romance novels with creepy themes. Get your credit card ready, because I have a few more for you. In addition to hay rides, fall festivals, and costume parties, you’ll want to celebrate the holiday with one of these spine-tingling stories featuring protagonists of color. The plots are filled with ghosts, shifters, demons, and all the other things that go bump in the night and keep you awake—or better yet, cause you to huddle under the covers with your significant other. Waterford Point by Alana Matthews

This story is from the Shivers series and features a Native American hero. Nick Chavaree didn’t like two things: chasing ghosts, and out-of-towners snooping around. Rachel didn’t want to tangle with the sheriff, but found it hard to stay away. Despite Nick’s picture-perfect scowl and reprimands, there was more going on beneath the surface, and it needed further investigation. And what she found was a courageous hero who would give her something better than a storybook ending.

A Darker Shade of Midnight by Lynn Emery When LaShaun Rousselle returns home to Beau Chene, Louisiana, all hell breaks loose. She has to fight off greedy relatives, hostile townsfolk, and a nasty little demon determined to rule her world. She faces down all challengers with help from a sexy deputy, who puts his reputation on the line because he knows she’s not a murderer. The Alpha Promise by Hayat Ali

When Adina Carr is stranded in London by her philandering ex-boyfriend, she is about to call it quits and head back home to New York City. Through a bout of serendipity, things are about to get a whole lot more interesting—and dangerous. Jin, a vampire, has spent a lifetime being groomed to rule; yet, there is a tribe of rebel undead who will do anything to make sure he does not assume the throne. It is Adina who unwittingly gives him a second chance and finds herself in the middle of a bloody battle—and falling hopelessly in love. The Beast in Him by Shelly Laurenston

Some things are so worth waiting for. Like the moment when Jessica Ward “accidentally” bumps into Bobby Ray Smith and shows him just how far she’s come since high school.

Night Owl Reviews Back then, Jess’ gangly limbs and bruised heart turned to jelly any time Smitty’s “all the better to ravish you with” body came near her. So, some things haven’t changed. Except now Jess is a success on her own terms. And she can enjoy a romp - or twenty - with a big, bad wolf and walk away. Easy. Scandal in Copper Lake by Marilyn Pappano No one believed Anamaria Duquesne when she had premonitions of her mother’s death. Now, years later, the town pariah has returned to Copper Lake to unearth what transpired on that fateful night. Robbie Calloway scoffed at Anamaria’s psychic mumbo jumbo about an unsolved murder and eerie family curses. But before long, the prominent attorney was entrenched in her crusade. With danger swirling around them, could they overcome incredible odds to be together?

Taken by Midnight by Lara Adrian In the frozen Alaskan wilderness, former state trooper Jenna Darrow survives an unspeakable breach of body and soul. But with her narrow escape comes an even greater challenge. For strange changes are taking place within her, as she struggles to understand—and control—a new hunger. To do so, she will seek shelter in the Boston compound of the Order, an ancient race of vampire warriors whose very existence is shrouded in mystery. Perhaps the most mysterious of them all is Brock, a brooding, dark-eyed alpha male whose hands hold the power to comfort, heal . . . and arouse. Curse of the Demon Queen by Lauren Murphy

Fifty years ago, Lilith, Queen of the Demons, took the fall for something she wanted no part in and it cost her the only man she ever loved. Betrayed and cursed, Aamon wants nothing but his freedom. No matter how long he’s forced to serve, he’ll never forgive her. The two end up on a treacherous ride of depravity and burning desire. Only absolute forgiveness will be able to bring them back from this perilous journey.

Storm Born by Richelle Mead

Eugenie Markham is a powerful shaman who does a brisk trade banishing spirits and fey who cross into the mortal world. Now Eugenie is a hot target for every ambitious demon and Otherworldy ne’er-do-well, and the ones who don’t want to knock her up want her dead. She finds formidable allies in Dorian, a seductive fairy king with a taste for bondage, and Kiyo, a gorgeous shape-shifter who redefines animal attraction.

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Phone Calls From the Dead by Ericka Scott

After being left standing at the altar, Rosalie Hopkins is just beginning to put her life back together. A mysterious phone call makes her realize she needs to find her ex-fiancé in order to forget him, so she hires so-sexy private investigator, Tavon Williams to help her. Tavon Williams was investigating Rosalie’s exfiancé. After tailing him for months, Tavon discovered two things. One, the man was cheating on her, and two, Tavon was in love with Rosalie.

Delaney Diamond is the best-selling author of AfricanAmerican and interracial romance. Her second release in the Hot Latin Men series, Fight for Love, is now available. Her September 19th, 2011 release is The Temptation of a Good Man. Enjoy free reads on her website at www.delaneydiamond.com.

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Reading on an iPad This month I would like to focus on my personal readying experience on my iPad 1st gen. I am sure that those of you who have been reading e-books for quite some time have managed to amass a number of e-books in many different formats; .epub, .pdb, .pdf, .lit , etc. I for one have purchased e-books from Fictionwise.com, BN.com, the Kindle bookstore, Bookonboard. com and Mobipocket.com. While there is not much that can be done with the .mobi formatted e-books, please note that all non-digital right management (drm) e-books maybe converted to a device compatible format using the popular e-book library management software called, Calibre (www.calibre.com). So what’s a reader to do when there are so many formats to be concerned about? Well, I must applaud all of the e-book vendors like BN, Amazon, Apple and Kobo for providing an app that allows e-book aficionados, such as me, to read my purchased e-books on my iPad regardless of the format. That being said, my personal reading preference tends to lean towards using iBooks and iTunes. I lead a busy life and when I want to manage my e-books, audio-books and music, iTunes fits the bill for me. Although iBooks is designed to work in conjunction with the iTunes and the iBookstore, it does allow a user to add and manage unprotected e-books and pdf documents via iTunes. Besides for the ability to manually mange a n e-book library, iBooks can also syncs them across apple devices, so you never need to worry about where you left off. A good thing too, given my penchant for starting at least 5 books at time on multiple devices; this is a handy feature. I am meticulous in my library management; all books must have a category, an artist name, have an artist sort and last but not least they must have a cover; iTunes and iBooks lets me do all these things and more. But getting back to my reading experience on the iPad, I find that sometimes I like to start a book in audio-book and finish with the e-book. Most of the e-reading apps for the iPad provide a search within the book so it’s quite easy to locate the last page read, have the ability to shift between day and night reading and are able to display the book in portrait or landscape. It’s funny that although I know how long the book I am reading at the time might be, reading in landscape always makes the book seem more daunting; a 350 page book is now somewhere around 700+. This aspect has caused me anxieties when I have review deadlines to meet; for some reason I keep looking at the number of pages left. Many have complained of eye strain when reading on a tablet

or Smartphone. I have not experienced this discomfort myself, but given the constant exposure to a backlight background I would suggest taking breaks in your reading session to cut down on the eye strain. Oh! Did I mention that I just love e-books? Now there are so many new genres to choose from and some can only be found at Amazon. The Kindle app is another app that I find very straight forward and user friendly. As I have moved farther away from print books Amazon has become my internet retailer of choose. It only made since that I would stop and browse on occasion. I love to troll around the kindle bookstore and have picked up a few lesser known titles in some very obscure genres; you know the kind I am talking about. Just as with any of the e-book retailers, it’s all about content and the consumption. E-books allow me to experience a whole new world of books without the clutter. The iPad allows me to read anything, anywhere at any time; thanks to the vendors of apps like iBooks, the Kindle app, nook and kobo. I am a firm believer in portability. I need to be able to take my e-books and put them on any device that I own, regardless of if they are protected or unprotected. While we may not be there exactly, the publishing industry is making strides to get there. In the meantime load your tablet and Smart-phones with some of the latest e-reading apps like iBooks, the Kindle app, the Nook app or the Kobo app and enjoy the written word. I currently own a classic nook wifi-3G, an iPod Touch 4th Gen and an iPad wifi-3G. You would probably ask why so many, the nook is more for indoor reading for me, while the iPod touch is that on the go reading in line at the bank, waiting for a movie to start etc and the iPad is used for long term review reading and annotating. I still purchase my favorite authors in Imprint books, but my library has grown exponentially since I have embraced the eBook technology. Novel Technology “E-books and Technology Made Simple” next month’s article “The Spoken Words Journey in Technology: from cassettes to Mp3 Players”

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