Night Owl Reviews Magazine, Issue 18 by Night Owl Reviews

www.NightOwlReviews.com own beliefs, and do not trust “The English” or outsiders. But sometimes they might just have to rely upon others because of unexpected circumstances.

EONA by Alison Goodman Genre: YA Fantasy Reviewed by: Tatiana

If you liked “Eon” and your eyes didn’t glaze over every time you read about Eona uniting with her dragon, easing into her mindsight, channeling her Hua and so forth, I don’t see any reason for you to dislike this novel. I really don’t.

A Bishop’s grandson is kidnapped and a note is received from the boy’s father, the Bishop’s shunned son. The note states that he (the shunned son) just wants to spend time with his son and will bring him back before harvest, but then a second note shows up wanting money for the boy’s return. This leads the Bishop to turn for help from “The English.”

I feel like every issue I had with the 1st book of this duology was successfully fixed or improved upon in this sequel.

So he goes to someone who is English but a friend of the Amish who he feels he can trust to try to find the boy’s whereabouts, but not try to bring him home. The Englishman is asked not to go to the authorities though or the Amish will deny everything as they do not want the police involved.

“Eona,” unlike its predecessor, has no info-dumping. Instead, it is a quest-type adventure in which Eona attempts to save her home country and in the process to learn to control her newly acquired immense power.

It is also a very personal story. The time is no longer spent on extensive world-building, but on Eona’s exploration of her power as both a Dragoneye and a woman.

The Englishman, who is a professor and his friend who is a pastor set out to find the child. Along the way the Bishop’s shunned son is found murdered within site of the Bishop’s house and the plot thickens as they feel the grandson is in danger now.

Of course, everything is messy. With great power comes great responsibility - how much violence is justified in war? What is the rightful cause to use one’s power against another person’s will? who can be trusted with limitless access to power? And what can power do to a person who possesses it?

Can these 2 unlikely sleuths get to the bottom of this mystery? Can they find the boy before something happens to him as well? You will be turning pages all night to find out.

The romance story line is no less complicated - romantic relationships are convoluted by mistrust, fear of deception, power imbalances, questions of morality, loyalty and honor.

This book has a lot of twists and turns, and definitely threw me for a curve on who the culprit turns out to be. This is a keeper.

But the best part of the book for me was the fact that when I started it, I was sure it would simply be about saving the Empire of Celestial Dragons from Sethon, but it turned out to be much more than that.

Shoebox Sam is a delightful children’s story deftly told by Mary Brigid Barrett and beautifully illustrated by Frank Morrison. A humble yet profound teacher, Shoebox Sam shows his young friends Delia and Jesse the power of helping treat what some might consider useless, whether a pair of worn shoes or a human being down on his or her luck. The children are witness to the miracles that can be wrought by gentle treatment and respect and they get a chance to share in the joy and warmth that can be generated even when the weather outside is rainy. A beautiful story that provides a lesson without being preachy.

SHOEBOX SAM by Mary Brigid Barrett Genre: Childrens Reviewed by: ELF

Every decision Eona has to make is ambiguous and difficult and requiring serious sacrifices, just the way I like them.

I am thoroughly impressed by this intelligent, complex and thoughtful story. Highly recommend it, unless, of course, you can’t stand fantasy, dragons and heavy world building. BLOOD OF THE PRODIGAL by P. L. Gaus Genre: Amish Mystery Reviewed by: Sherylyn

The Amish are set in their own ways of doing things and their

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Love and Romance in Color Diversity in Romance

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Carrie Vaughn Current Releases My second young adult novel, STEEL, was released in March from HarperTeen. It’s the story of a modern teen fencer who gets trapped on an 18th century pirate ship.

My stand-alone fantasy novel AFTER THE GOLDEN AGE was released in April from Tor Books. Celia West is the daughter of the city’s greatest super heroes, and is just trying to live a normal life, outside their shadow. Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Crossing the Genres

Robin McKinley, because I really love her characters. They’re usually reluctant heroes, average down to earth people who happen to be in the right place at the right time -- or wrong time, depending on your point of view. They become heroes because they have to, not because they want to be heroes. But they’re all people I’d like to know. The books of hers that I reread every year are The Blue Sword and The Hero and the Crown.

Steel Sixteen-year-old Jill has fought in dozens of fencing tournaments, but she has never held a sharpened blade. She finds a corroded sword piece on a Caribbean beach. The broken tip holds secrets, though, and it transports Jill through time to the deck of a pirate ship.

What’s been the most challenging part of writing for you? The business side. Dealing with contracts, the mountain of emails every day, and just waiting for the whole slow process of publishing to run its course. It’s sometimes hard to sit down and write when all these other issues are vying for attention.

After the Golden Age Can an accountant defeat a supervillain? Celia West, only daughter of the heroic leaders of the superpowered Olympiad, has spent the past few years estranged from her parents and their high-powered lifestyle. She’s had enough of masks and heroics, and wants only to live her own quiet life out from under the shadow of West Plaza and her rich and famous parents.

What inspires your writing?

A little bit of everything. My own daydreams, my reactions to other stories, tidbits of information I find in non-fiction reading. One thing I love doing is taking two different ideas and putting them together in the same story, and figure out how those ideas interact and what great story I can have come out of that.

Kitty’s Big Trouble - #9 Kitty Norville is back and in more trouble than ever. Her recent run-in with werewolves traumatized by the horrors of war has made her start wondering how long the US government might have been covertly using werewolves in combat. Have any famous names in our own history might have actually been supernatural?

What main genre do you write in?

Paranormal / Urban Fantasy

Night Owl Reviews

Hot summer reading is just around the corner and numerous fang-tastic books are already hitting the shelves. My wish list is already getting so long there’s no way I could possibly read them all this summer (doesn’t mean I can’t hoard them for later though:-) So what’s new this month, you ask? Chloe Neill’s newest Chicagoland Vampires book, Hard Bitten hit shelves May 3. I had a chance to read it and wow, you’ll never believe what happens. I’m looking forward to Infernal Affairs, by Jes Battis- I’ve read the other books in this series and love the blend of crime drama and forensics with magic and supernatural activity. Familiar names with new books this month include: the newest Sookie Stackhouse book Dead Reckoning, by Charlaine Harris; Always the Vampire, by Nancy Haddock; The Neon Graveyard, by Vicki Pettersson; Zombies Sold Separately, by Cheyenne McCray; Magic Slays, by Ilona Andrews; Devil Without a Cause, by Terri Garey; The Vampire Narcise, by Colleen Gleason; Concrete Savior, by Yvonne Navarro; The Reluctant Vampire, by Lynsay Sands; and the first adult book by Melissa Marr, Graveminder. The first book in a new erotic paranormal series that hits shelves this month is Blood Law, Blood Moon Trilogy. I have this one on my shelf waiting to be read – and it looks hot. Sarah MacCarty has a new erotic paranormal series coming out this month as well, Jace, The first book in the Shadow Wranglers series- instead of werewolves this time it’s vampires- sexy Western vampires. Hmmm…sounds interesting. So, what’s on your hot summer reading wish list? SQAI WITH MICHAEL J LEE

ML: She’s a good century ahead of her time but doesn’t even realize it at first. RR: What is one unique trait about your hero?

ML: He creates his own romantic rival with a bolt of electricity.

RR: What is the sexiest trait of the main man in your newest book? ML: Great black eyes that peer into your mind and soul. RR: What’s the heat level of your book? ML: Hot and spicy

RR: What kind of paranormals or paranormal elements are in your book? ML: In all of dark fantasy and one that’s been largely missing from the paranormal romance genre until now.

RR: Without giving away details, can you describe one interesting scene in your book in less than two sentences? ML: Viktor first uses his machine to save Eva, who has nearly drowned. He glances at her nude reflection as she changes out of her drenched clothes.

RR: List three adjectives that describe your book as a whole:

RR: Let’s start out by getting the name of your newest release and what genre/category it falls into.

ML: New. Fast paced. Exciting.

RR: Can you sum up the book in 2 sentences or less?

ML: My Frankenstein, it’s a paranormal romance. RR: Can you describe your heroine in 3 words?

ML: The brilliant Baron Frankenstein seduces a young, intelligent girl. But a love triangle develops when he introduces her to his “cousin” actually the creature spawned by his experiments.

ML: Strong. Intelligent. Torn.

RR: Can you describe your hero in 3 words?

RR: Please finish this sentence: The best thing about being an author is

ML: Powerful. Passionate. Hubris.

RR: What is one unique trait about your heroine?

ML: The nerve wracking anxiety!

www.NightOwlReviews.com RR: Can you sum up the book in 2 sentences or less?

RR: And last but not least, when and where can we expect to find your book?

MP: A Ranger’s Tale is a story of trust on many levels. From the first chance encounter, to the end, where trust is tested to the breaking point, Cali and Galadin will discover the power of forgiveness and a love that stands the test of time.

ML: It’s available now on Amazon Kindle http://www.amazon. com/dp/B004QOA2K4 SQAI WITH MYSTI PARKER

RR: Please finish this sentence: The best thing about being an author is

RR: Let’s start out by getting the name of your newest release and what genre/category it falls into.

MP: sharing a story that will hopefully take the reader on a fun and unforgettable voyage, if only for a little while.

MP: A Ranger’s Tale is a Fantasy Romance

RR: And last but not least, when and where can we expect to find your book?

RR: Can you describe your heroine in 3 words? MP: Caliphany is stubborn, impulsive, and loyal.

MP: A Ranger’s Tale is available in print and electronic format from Melange Books: http://www.melange-books.com/authors/mystiparker/parkerarangerstale.html And All Romance eBooks: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/ product-aranger039stale-511665-143.html

RR: Can you describe your hero in 3 words?

MP: Galadin is free-spirited, guilt-ridden, and protective. RR: What is one unique trait about your heroine?

SQAI WITH MILA RAMOS

RR: Let’s start out by getting the name of your newest release and what genre/category it falls into.

MP: She possesses powerful magic, but doesn’t believe in herself or have a desire to use it. RR: What is one unique trait about your hero?

MR: An anthology called Echoes and Illusions. Falls under the paranormal genre.

MP: He knows only one spell, which renders him nearly invisible.

RR: Can you describe your heroine in 3 words?

RR: What is the sexiest trait of the main man in your newest book?

MR: All my heroines in the anthology are sassy, smart, and determined RR: Can you describe your hero in 3 words?

MP: Under his tanned, muscular body from his life at sea, Galadin is a man who believes in Cali, and helps her believe in herself.

MR: All my heroes are determined, sexy, and compassionate

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

MP: If I had to assign a heat level, I’d call it hot and spicy.

MR: I would rate all the stories around hot and spicy. Some stories have a little more heat than the others and some a little less but overall the stories are hot and spicy.

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

RR: List three adjectives that describe your book as a whole.

MP: A Ranger’s Tale hosts a variety of fantasy creatures, like wizards, trolls, and goblins. A telepathic healer does have a small part toward the end. Consequently, she will appear in a later book in the series involving vampires.

MR: Suspenseful, Intriguing, Hot

RR: Please finish this sentence: The best thing about being an author is

RR: Without giving away details, can you describe one interesting scene in your book in less than two sentences?

MR: bringing stories to interested readers, getting to meet people in the industry and learning how to become a better writer!

MP: While hunting bear on Tilliya Island, a sudden storm, a startling revelation, and a bear attack threaten to tear Cali and Galadin apart forever.

RR: And last but not least, when and where can we expect to find your book?

RR: List three adjectives that describe your book as a whole. MP: Thrilling, inspiring, and fun.

MR: The book as well as my other books are out now and can be found at Melange Books, and Whiskey Creek Press.

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BIGFOOT Your Himalayan retreat is interrupted by a loud pounding on the door. It has to be some poor soul has lost his way in the snow storm you can see blowing outside the window. You fling open the door and gasp from the smell—you’ve smelled sweeter skunk spray. Focusing, you discover your doorway is filled with the hairiest belly you’ve ever seen. Craning your neck backwards, your eyes travel up the hairy path to a fur covered head with a massive slanted forehead emphasizing a face set with two beady, black eyes that begin to glow red. But most impressive is the grin revealing a set of razor sharp teeth. The Yeti has come for dinner and guess who is on the menu. The first reported sighting of the Yeti, or Abominable Snowman as he became known from a botched translation, was by a foreigner in 1889, when a British army major found what appeared to be a large footprint. He thought it explained the large dark figures seen in the snowfield above them. When they reached the field, they were gone, but more footprints were there. This sighting became a worldwide sensation. Reports of large hairy ape-like creatures can be found around the world under various names. In some regions, they are shy and avoid contact with humans, but some cultures describe them as vicious and flesh eating, as in your dinner guest. The natives that lived in America long before Columbus landed, called the creatures Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Swamp-ape, Wooley Booger, Hairy Man and Monster. Sasquatch is an Americanized translation of a Salish word meaning Wild Man of the Woods. There have been sightings from the North American northwest to Florida. Most countries around the world have their own version of Bigfoot. In Australia, the Aborigines told stories to the white settlers of the Yowie. A group of settlers on a hunting trip in 1795 reported the sighting of a large hairy man-like beast dashing away from them. During the 1970’s, two ancient cave paintings were discovered depicting what appears to be Trezise, a giant creature from Aboriginal folklore. Sightings in Nepal and China have been reported, but the guy gets around. Russia has its own reports of ape-like men

with big feet. The most frequent sightings seem to be in North America, the Himalayas and Australia. No matter the location, the descriptions have certain similarities. Taller than the average man, ranging 7 to 10 feet; dark brown to auburn in color (except for the white Yeti); big feet (castings of footprints confirm this); a piercing eerie howl; an aversion to humans and a strong smelly odor…think gym shoes worn by someone with stinky feet for years. Sightings (or at least the reports of them) seem to be on the increase as humans encroach deeper into the wilderness and areas that have been previously unspoiled by mankind. If these creatures are real, what are they? Are they a missing link? A lost relative of humans that have managed to survive in the wilderness? Or a species of ape unknown to the world? We may find out soon. The Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (yes, there is one) plans to place motion-triggered webcams in various forests around the United States where sightings have been reported. Plus, there’s what appears to be the discovery of a butt imprint by researchers in the American northwest. Yep, an impression in the ground where a large hairy primate had a sit-down to take a load off his feet. Even if his shoe size would require a custom lathe, he probably gets tired carrying all that weight around. I can sympathize because my feet get tired when I’m on them a lot and my height is nowhere close to 7 feet. I know some of you will scoff at the sightings and at the idea some giant creature has been able to avoid being caught throughout the centuries. Only a live capture or the body of one who bit the dust will serve to convince skeptics. But if you ever find yourself at an isolated retreat where sightings have been reported and there’s a pounding on the door of your cabin, are you going to open it?

Most countries around the world have their own version of Bigfoot.

-------------------------------------------------------------------Award winning author, Lizzie T. Leaf enjoys writing Paranormal/Fantasy with a twist of humor. The first book in her new Magical Love Series, Beyond Magic released January 2011 with Passion in Print Press. www.lizzietleaf.com

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WHY HOLLYWOOD HASN’T HAD AN ORIGINAL THOUGHT IN YEARS

rewritten to his suiting…, then his production company was totally involved. Robot was one of the X amounts of films that he was committed to the studio to do . . . and the rest is box office history. Now think about this. . . the book was written by noted author Isaac Put an infinite number of studio executives in Asimov. The novel a room and sooner or later one will greenI once ask a film producer friend of mine was a cult classic light a truly good remake of a classic film or and a major best television show. “Why are a few of my film scripts in seller. Scripts In my life, I have written twelve plays, three film scripts (original) and two adapted production hell (that is a term for a script written some say film scripts from other mediums. Some of my waiting at a studio for an actor, a producer six, others say ten different versions plays have been produced. However my five or a director to want to do it–basically an . . . and it still took scripts have not been touched to be made for the big or small screen. There must be optioned studio slush pile) or not being fifteen years to make. a reason! Other then they may be bad. The done at all?” One of the feedback I heard is they weren’t bad at all. biggest trends Three of the projects have been optioned, but in HOLLYWOOD never made. (note the caps) is to make TV and films that are filled with reI once ask a film producer friend of mine “Why are a few of makes, redos, retreads and formula projects. Look at a sampling my film scripts in production hell (that is a term for a script of what is coming up on TV waiting at a studio for and movies in the next year or an actor, a producer or so (note the list is long). . . an a director to want to do The film “I, Robot” (which started Will Smith) updated version of the Wonder it–basically an optioned was in development hell for more than 15 Woman TV show, a Superman studio slush pile) or not a Spider-man reboot, being done at all?” He said years. It has scripts written by such noted reboot, X-man First Class (a younger “It’s not just you Bennet. version of the X-man trilogy rescience fiction writers like Harlan Ellison. A script can have a great booted), a Tron Legacy cartoon cast attached to it, but no (for Disney XD), like The Hobbit money behind it . . . and so (because of the success of The it’s never made.” He said “A film can be fast tracked if the right Lord of the Rings series), an updated version of Charlie’s Anactor or director champions it.” Then he also said “Hollywood gels, Star Trek 2 (the classic does not want to take risks with a show rebooted for film), A budget of more than ten cents. Films Batman redo from Warner turn around so quickly. The suits One of the biggest trends in HOLLYBrother (this will be after want a film that will hit box office WOOD (note the caps) is to make TV and Christopher Nolan’s third gold before it makes it on DVD.” For example, The film “I, Robot” films that are filled with remakes, redos, Batman film The Dark Night Rises is released in 2012), (which started Will Smith) was in retreads and formula projects. Conan the Barbarian, Cars development hell for more than 15 2, Cleopatra (starring Anyears. It has scripts written by such gelina Jolie), a shrink who noted science fiction writers like acts like HOUSE in a mental Hospital, Dark Shadows film redo Harlan Ellison. As I heard, Smith had one of the Robot scripts

www.NightOwlReviews.com (with Johnny Depp and directed by Tim An agent friend, who pitches movie film like the 1977 film of Star Wars (Star Burton), Deadpool the movie (since the ideas to the major studios, has to tell “ Wars a New Hope) would never be made studio exec. Liked the character in Wolthe powers that be” (the studio execs) today. She told me that she loved that I verine and Ryan Reynolds is attached), with capsuled blurbs like “Its rocky type wanted to use her opinion as an insider, an older doctor/mother joins a family film” (I can name a dozen films and so but not to use her name since she still practice with her children to get closer can many of you), “a super hero concept” works in the industry and does not want to them (think a medical Blue Bloods), or “a comedy quest in vein of Lord of to make waves. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger the Rings” (the film Your Highness or the So what does this mean for those peoTides (Pirates 4 if you are keeping count musical Spam-a-lot). Film execs want ple that want to write scripts or screenand Disney is planning five & plays and see their name on the six), Rise of the Planet of the silver screen? It is in the art of Apes (an updating of the clasthe deal. I am not saying there is sic Apes films), an American So what does this mean for those people any hope, but it seems you need TV version of Prime Suspect, buck trends or go indie to see that want to write scripts or screenplays to Ghost Rider 2 (with Nic Cage), your name as a credit. and see their name on the silver screen? Avatar two & three, The Lone What I will tell you is keep Ranger (with Johnny Depp as plugging. If you give up on your Tonto), the Expendables two dream of a career, you may (this is where old action stars NEVER get it! should go to die cinematically, similar to films that have box office chances. They That’s my opinion, what’s yours? Love the Dirty Dozen) and Tom Cruise charseem to be afraid of giving a real film to hear what you think, and my inbox is acter in Tropic Thunder will get his own that much of a chance, a risk or really a always open for your questions and commovie (The sleazy, bloated, rap-loving budget without a major star attached to ments. Email me at audioworld@yahoo. alter ego Les Grossman) . . . That is just it!” She also said “For every original film com. Put the word MIND in the subject a bit of what we will see sooner than you or TV show that is made, there are three line. No attach files please! think! Don’t get me started on the comwhatever’s that are spin-off, clones or So until next time, remember keep puter cartoon version of Star Wars: the redos!” What annoys her is that ten years your feet on the ground and reach for the Clone Wars! Can’t anyone in Hollywood ago, the studios would have given many stars! do original ideas anymore? films a try. Today, by the studios logic, a

NYT Bestseller Quick and Dirty Tips: Helping You Do Things Better Branded grammar guide. Mignon Fogarty is the creator of Grammar Girl and founder of the Quick and Dirty Tips Network. A technical writer and entrepreneur, she has served as an editor and producer at a number of health and science Web sites. She has a B.A. in English from the University of Washington in Seattle and an M.S. in biology from Stanford University. She lives in Reno, Nevada. 13

Night Owl Reviews

New “Indie” Talent Traci Hohenstein

R: When did you know that you wanted to be a writer?

Being an “indie” author myself, I like to comb through the listings at Amazon and Barnes and Noble and find new talent. Traci Hohenstein is one I came across:

Her self-published novel, BURN OUT, is a quick read at 170 pages but definitely not a disappointing one! A brief synopsis:

Lt. Samantha (Sam) Collins, a firefighter, vanishes after a warehouse fire the week before she was to testify at her estranged husband’s trial for drug charges. The only clue to her disappearance is a firefighter helmet that was left behind at the scene. Rachel Scott founded Florida Omni Search after her own daughter disappeared when she was four. She has worked with law enforcement agencies all over the United States in locating missing people. Sam’s mother calls Rachel for assistance in locating her daughter. However, the search for Sam takes her on a journey that she never expected. As she digs deeper into Sam’s past, she finds out more about the marijuana operation that her husband Ken, a former police officer, was involved with. In her desperate, terrifying search for Sam, Rachel also discovers clues about her own missing daughter, Mallory. Will she locate Samantha in time and also find out what happened to her own daughter? Traci does a great job of letting pieces of the story out slowly, keeping the reader’s interest. The story definitely includes enough action to keep you turning pages, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. Characters are well developed, and the missing person investigation service is a fresh take, rather than just an ordinary PI. I look forward to more, and I give it 4 stars. My cat, Rocco, also has an eye for new talent, and has an interview this month with Traci on his blog: R: Tell us about yourself.

T:First of all, I love cats. I live in NW Florida in a small beach community with my husband and three adorable kids. When not writing, I love to go to the beach and build sandcastles, swim in the gulf, and soak up the sun.

T: When I was in the 5th grade, our English teacher asked us to write an essay. The topic was to give the point of view of an inanimate object. I wrote about being a daisy in park and observing the children playing. She picked mine to read aloud to the class. My face turned red, but I was hooked from that point on.

R: How did the whole idea for Burn Out come about? T: I became intrigued by the Natalie Holloway case. I remember watching a search and rescue firm from Texas coming to Aruba with all their specialized equipment and searching for clues about her disappearance. The seed was planted for a main character Rachel Scott, who has a three-year-old that disappears. Rachel starts a search and rescue company to help other missing persons. My husband is a firefighter, so I incorporated that element into the story.. And the first book in the Rachel Scott series, Burn Out, was born. The next in the series, Asylum Harbor, Rachel is called in to a help locate a missing teenager who vanished during a cruise to the Bahamas. All the while, Rachel is still searching for her own missing daughter as well. This will be a five or six book series. R: Are your characters based on people you know?

T: I took the liberty of using a few friends’ names for characters. Suzette Breland, who I went to high school with, is actually a lawyer. She is a spunky one, too. Stacy Case also went to the same high school and she is a TV reporter for a station in Nashville, TN. And Michelle Couch is a dear friend of mine who edits my work. Who knows, in my next novel, there may be a Rocco the cat.

www.NightOwlReviews.com R: What made you decide to go “indie”? T: After several near misses with agents and publishers, I took a look at what other indie authors were doing, namely Joe Konrath, and decided to give it a try. I like the freedom of making my own choices when it comes to cover art, editing, and promo/marketing.

Louise

R: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book or publishing experience? T: No regrets.

R:What was the hardest part of writing and/or publishing your book? T: Finding a balance between writing (meeting my goal of 2K words a day), promotional/marketing, and spending time with my family. R:Any new projects we should know about?

T: I’m working on two projects right now. My sister, Anna Satterfield, and I are writing a romantic comedy called Special Delivery. It’ll be available May 1st , just in time for Mother’s Day. I hear one of characters has a gorgeous female cat…hmmmm. The other project is the second in the series to Burn Out called Asylum Harbor. R: What do you hope readers will most take away from your writing?

T: I like to write about things that no one else has done or put a different twist on a certain topic. I hope after they read one of my books they think it was clever and well done. R: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

T: Thanks to everyone who supported me and bought copies of my novel. I love to write and it makes my day to hear that you love my work. I write for you. :) R: Where can our readers find you?

T: www.msthriller.wordpress.com is my blog site which I update a couple times a week. On Sunday, I get together online with other indie authors and we promote Sample Sunday. You can visit my blog and find a sample of my work-in-progress along with a great recipe. All my books are on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com. To read the entire interview with Traci, visit www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com

You can find her book on Amazon and Barnes and Noble! Thank you, Traci! ---------------------------------------------------------------------

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.tonilotempioauthor.webs.com and her cat’s blog: www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com for info on her, her books and her latest, NO REST FOR THE WICCA, and MY SUPERHERO SISTER, both available at amazon.com and barnes&noble.com.

Penny

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Pink Princess Tea Parties Finally, my birthday month is here! Many celebrate the day of their birth or even a weekend but several years ago I took it upon myself to take the entire month of May. Surprisingly my husband went along with me on this momentous decision without blinking an eye. I get to pick where we eat dinners, what movies we see and, of course, a special birthday cake. Staying along these lines I’ve chosen a fun party book to share with you. Pink Princess Tea Parties is an entertaining cookbook from start to finish. The cover is bright pink with sparkling silver letters. The background for the recipes has hand drawn hearts and flowers. I love the presentation picture of each recipe. You can’t help but be drawn in by the recipes and finish reading it with a smile on your face and fun times on your mind. While the pretties drew me in, the recipes kept me engaged and I perused this one in one sitting. There are four sections to this cookbook: drinks,

cookies and cakes, sweets and treats and sandwiches and snacks. Everything you need to prepare an enjoyable afternoon for girls of any age. The recipes are fairly short and easy to follow. This would be a great cookbook to share with children. Tea parties are the height of elegance. Many tearooms include big floppy hats and feather boas for you to dress up in while you partake of your favorite beverage. I highly suggest you find one of these establishments and involve yourself in the amusement. If the herbal tea doesn’t take away the stress, the enjoyment of spending time with friends will. Besides the recipe below I also tried the fruit and muffin kabob recipe and it was scrumptious, a must for your next office party. This cookbook is part of a series that includes:

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Go Travel

a Mermaid Cookbook, a Fairy Cookbook and even a Spa Princess Cookbook. One of my most memorable outings with my mother, thus far, took place at a tearoom a few miles from her house. We donned boas, hats and jewelry to take advantage of the ambience, then sat outside to make a day of it. When it comes down to it life is a slow reel of memories and I recommend you make the most of it! Featured Recipe Pink Princess Smoothie

1 ½ cups orange juice I frozen banana 1 cup frozen strawberries 1 cup frozen raspberries ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Fresh strawberries or raspberries for garnish Combine all ingredients except for fruit for garnish in a blender and mix until smooth and creamy. Pour into pretty glasses and garnish with fresh fruit as desired.

***In case you haven’t figured it out yet- I absolutely love this cookbook. From the unique recipes to the fun-inspired presentations, it has everything you need to make your next tea party go from simply fun to fantastic-ly fabulous!*** Looking forward: Next month I’ll be reviewing Fire It Up, More Than 400 Recipes for Grilling Everything. I plan to try the Black Pepper Beer Can Chicken recipe so wish me luck. This is a huge book, over 400 pages long, so I’d better start reading now… Buy Link on Amazon - http://www.amazon. com/Pink-Princess-Parties-Barbara-Beery/ dp/1423604164/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qi d=1299980517&sr=1-1 Pamela Reviewer/Freelance Writer www.thefantasticfoodie.wordpress.com

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This month, I took a vacation with a wonderful author, Ilona Andrews; or rather with her characters. This husband and wife team created a world in “The Edge” series which held me captive for days. In The Edge, a world stuck between The Broken, a place with no magic, and The Weird, a place where magic is everything, one family finds themselves being hunted. Their only defense, magic, which the new creatures happens to feed on. The fate of The Edge rests on the shoulders of one woman’s flash, and the knowledge of a Nobleman from The Weird. Once I finished On The Edge and returned to Earth, I found myself wondering if such a place actually existed. And if it does, where do I get tickets. After I pulled myself from dwelling on that alternate Universe of magic, evil, and fantasy creatures, I gave another of Ilona Andrews’ books a try. In Magic Bites, the “Kate Daniels” series, I found myself falling in love with the cocky Merc Kate as she went on a wild trip to discover the murderer of her good friend. The postapocalyptic setting and fantasy story line hooked me like a fish. Ilona reeled me and kept me dangling as I consumed the pages. Andrews filled the city of Atlanta with mystical creatures, powerful allies, even stronger enemies, and mass destruction of the surrounding architecture caused by fluctuations of magic. Readers find themselves on a journey where the things that go bump in the night might not be your imagination. Follow the epic battle of good versus evil as Kate and the Pack, a family of various shape shifters, battle against an

unknown evil determined to start a war between two unsuspecting cultures. Readers are sure to become instant fans of Ilona Andrews’ unique writing style. They are a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy. And for those of you who like a bit of romance mixed in, “The Edge” series is sure to give you want you want and keep you wanting more. Don’t forget to check out their other books as well. Now lets get down and find out what this author duo is up to and how they do it.

What is your writing process like? Do you go by an outline or freestyle it? Do you write from beginning to end, or skip around with scenes and piece them together at the end? Ilona: We start with a very rough outline. We know how the story starts and very often how it will end, sometimes down to the final scene. But the middle of the story is often nebulous and vague. For us the problem with plotting every twist and turn is that along the way the story evolves and mutates and the details of the plot will change with it. We do not skip around. Each successive scene in the narrative builds on the foundation of the previous scenes, and we found that if we try to write the scenes out of order, they made sense from the plot point of view but the emotional journey of the

Night Owl Reviews characters was reading really jagged, like a jigsaw puzzle that doesn’t quite fit together. How do each of you work out who’s going to write what scenes?

Both series introduce new characters. The Edge, having a bit stronger romantic element, tends to focus on a new couple, but typically at least one of these characters was introduced in the previous books. The Kate Daniels series follows Kate Daniels and is told from her point of view. What was your inspiration for your first story?

We do not write scenes separately. It is a joint effort. How do you get your ideas for your stories?

I imagine the same way that everyone else does. :) We collect a lot of information: we read books, we watch movies, we go about our daily life and once in a while all of that information condenses itself into an idea. Gordon: We also read comics and watch anime with the kids, I think that helps. What’s your favorite way to overcome writer’s block?

Writer’s block, the inability to wrote, occurs for several reasons. A writer could be overworked and creatively fatigued, in which case the cure is to take a couple of days off and perhaps read or watch something unrelated to work. A writer could be attempting to force the story into a wrong direction. Subconsciously, the writer realizes that the creative train derailed, but sometimes we’re too stubborn to admit defeat and abandon what seemed like such a good idea. And sometimes, we just get too stressed out. Contrary to its portrayal in popular media, writing can be a stressful occupation and writers are notoriously prone to self-doubt. Sometimes you can question and doubt yourself into a corner. The best way to deal with writer block to find out why it’s happening. Once you got that figured out, the solution is usually clear.

I don’t remember. It was years and years ago and honestly I am not even sure what our first story was. I remember we’d written a very odd fantasy novel that had everything, from court jesters who were secretly evil magicians to cross-dimensional travel. I can’t tell you why we wrote it. I can tell you , however, what inspired Kate Daniels series. We are both big fans of Post Apocalyptic settings, like in Fallout or Mad Max, but obviously it has been done, so we thought, “What if magic came back, what if throughout the history of mankind, magic and tech had usurped each other?” We are both huge fans of the old (80’s) He-Man and Thundarr cartoons where magic and technology co-exist. We wanted to do something like that with the Kate books but more gritty and grim. How did you start out writing books together?

We started editing each other’s papers in college and progressed from there. Do either of you write books solo? No.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors? Read. Read more. Write the book you wish you could read.

What was it like to learn you’d been placed on the Best Seller’s lists? Your thoughts, emotions, outward reaction.

What are you working on now?

We’re writing FATE’S EDGE, the third book in the Edge series. It features Kaldar and Audrey, two thieves that are completely too good at what they do and can con anyone, except each other. Do you like to encourage contact from your readers? Social networking, emails?

We strive to maintain a robust blog and a presence on Facebook and Twitter. A lot of people prefer to write in, and we try to answer all emails. But most of the social interaction really happens on the blog. Over the years, the blog developed a very cool community of readers and a lot of interactions occur between the readers themselves. We just provide a topic and a place to talk about it. Can the readers expect to see familiar faces in the new books of your series’, “The Edge” and “Kate Daniels”, or is there an all new cast?

Actually, it was more like disbelief, followed by suspicion that something clearly went wrong. Our editor called and told us that Magic Burns hit at #32 on the New York Times Bestseller list. And then our editor explained that because we hit extended list (top 35), not the printed list (top 20), our publisher wouldn’t view as an NYT bestseller until we placed in the top 20. So it was kind of “we almost, sort of, kind of made it” moment. :) What does your family think of your success?

Ilona: They don’t care. On one side, we have me father, who keeps asking when will I go back to college and if Gordon found a real job yet. (Since Gordon has a degree, he is exempt from college nagging.) On other hand, we have Gordon’s family, most of whom do not read our books for religious reasons. In general, our relatives are happy that we’re doing okay. Gordon: My grandmother, who is in her 80’s is the only person in my family who reads the books, however, since the

www.NightOwlReviews.com Russian rights have been sold, I hope maybe Ilona’s dad will pick one up. Has your life changed any since you’ve become a Best Seller?

No. Being a bestseller doesn’t change your life in any way. It’s nice when the book hits New York Times or USAT, because it demonstrates that the series is doing well, but life changing it’s not. You still have to sweep the kitchen, make dinner, and sort your recycling. :)

Do you think it’s easier to get your work accepted now that you’ve got such an impressive title- New York Times Bestselling Author-to add to your resume? Being an NYT has some specific industry-related benefits, but I couldn’t tell you if the acceptance has gotten easier. We’re contracted for so many books, we haven’t submitted anything since we sold Edge series, and that was with the same publisher that releases our Kate series. Most of the sdie work for novellas and anthologies now is push-work: our agent or editor contacts us and asks if we have time to do this or that and we usually say yes. Do you have a list of book signings, local appearances, or release dates?

website, http://www.ilona-andrews.com. Usually we try to keep it on the front page, but the blog is a good place to check, too. The signing for release of MAGIC SLAYS will take place at Beaverton Powells, in Portland Oregon, May 31, 7:00 p.m. Do you have a writing routine? Certain music, scents, environment, time of day that you use to get into the writing zone? We drink a lot of tea. Lots and lots of tea. That’s about it. How long does it usually take you to complete one book?

Every book is different. Usually from start to finish with all of the edits and copy edits, I’d say six months. Thank you so much for the opportunity to do an interview!

Reades, thanks for dropping by. See ya next month!

Of course. All of that information is readily available on our

S E C O N D I N T H E N AT H A N I E L C A D E S E R I E S T H E U LT I M AT E S E C R E T. T H E U LT I M AT E A G E N T. N AT H A N I E L C A D E R E T U R N S . F O R 1 4 0 Y E A R S , N AT H A N I E L C A D E H A S B E E N T H E P R E S I D E N T ’ S VA M P I R E , S W O R N T O P R O T E C T A N D S E R V E H I S C O U N T R Y. C A D E ’ S E X I S T E N C E I S T H E M O S T C L O S E LY G U A R D E D O F W H I T E H O U S E SECRETS: A SUPERHUMAN COVERT AGENT WHO IS THE LAST LINE OF DEFENSE AGAINST NIGHTMARE S C E N A R I O S T H AT O R D I N A R Y C I T I Z E N S O N LY D R E A M O F.

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The Alchemist in the Shadow by Pierre Pevel is the sequel to The Cardinal’s Blades and starts a few weeks immediately after the first novel. The year is 1633, in a Paris where dragons menace the realms, and Cardinal Richelieu knows France is in danger. A dark society known as the Black Claw is making moves against the Cardinal and he is going to have to use the Cardinal’s Blades to stop them. The Cardinal’s Blades are made of six men and women led by Captain la Fargue who are going to have to risk their lives to save France. In exchange for protection, an Italian spy offers vital information for there is a dangerous enemy that has eluded everyone so far. She can name the mysterious Alchemist. The story is filled with court intrigue, politics and schemes that is complicated even more that magic is in play. The sequel is even better and the characters and political games seem even more complex. This novel is for those who love historical period fantasy that has plenty of sword fights, magic, and thrills. The main strength is the characters and the plot is very satisfying. The only weakness I would warn is that you do need to read the first book as the reader is going right into the world. I enjoyed the first book, but the sequel is even stronger in my opinion. I would rate it five stars as it is going on my keeper shelf. Black Halo by Sam Sykes is book two in the Aeons’ Gate series. I read Black Halo first and actually went out and bought the

first book, Tome of the Undergates, the next night as I enjoyed it so much. After the events of the previous book, Lenk and his five companions have set sail to bring the accursed relic away from the demonic Kraken Queen. And the tension is rising among the group of adventurers. It is only going to get worse when their ship crashes upon an island made of bones left behind from a war long ago. Blood thirsty warrior women, beasts from the deep and heretic-hunting wizards are going to be the least of their concerns. Lenk and his cohorts are not your normal fantasy hero with friends. They are adventurers who deal with deranged, psychotic and murderous people…each other. These are the people loathed by society and plagued by their gods, but they can get the job done if they can survive each other’s personal madness and ideas. This book is a departure from the heroic or even tortured hero types. The story is entertaining, but very violent with plenty of action and humorous bits to lighten things up. The story goes smooth except for a where it meanders a bit on the plot and the beginning might be confusing to some readers. It is not what you would normally expect from a fantasy book. I give this one four stars and recommend for people who enjoy fantasy with some dark humor, violence and chaos. I can’t wait for the next book to see what the adventures get into next.

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For this edition of the History Bits there is something slightly different yet again – twice over. For one I’m talking about more contemporary history than in previous editions. Two, talking about incidents/groups that were written about and having those books turned into film (both for the big and small screens). First up is Andy McNab’s Bravo Two Zero. The book talks about an SAS (Special Air Service – part of the British Special Forces) squad that went into Iraq during the first Gulf War. Of the eight men who went, only five came back. The author is a former operative who was one of the five men who came back. Bravo Two Zero was turned into a movie in 2001 and starred Sean Bean in McNab’s role, along with Steve Nicholson, Rick Warden, Richard Graham and Ian Curtis. Andy McNab was one of the two writers of the screenplay. I do not recall hearing that the movie receiving a wide distribution, what I took away from it is that it did, predominantly, stay true to the book. Next is Blackhawk Down by Mark Bowden. Mr. Bowden is a journalist and, according to the blurb, he found and interviewed key participants of the October 1993 raid into Mogadishu, Somalia. The book was turned into a movie in 2002 and starred Josh Hartnett, Tom Sizemore, Ewan McGregor and Eric Bana. While I have not, unfortunately, read the book so am unable to compare how well the movie stayed true to the book, I do believe that the movie did stay true to the general events of the incident. Lastly is Inside the Delta Force: The Story of America’s Elite Counterterrorist Unit by Eric Haney. Inside the Delta Force is Mr. Haney’s (USA, retired) memoir of the formation and early operations of the 1st Special Forces Operational

Detachment-Delta and starts in the fall of 1978. The book was the basis for CBS’s The Unit starring Dennis Haysbert, Robert Patrick, Max Martini and Michael Irby. The show ran for four seasons and, as far as I can tell, departed from the book as far as time period was concerned (the show was set in a more contemporary setting). The Unit stayed true to not only how the, well, unit operates, but to how the family members who stay home deal with the operators being gone. Other books to consider:

Immediate Action by Andy McNab Covers more of Mr. McNab’s career with the SAS – what led him to the Regiment, highlights more of the type of operations the Regiment does, and their training. The difference between Immediate Action and Bravo Two Zero is that the latter is more about one specific mission while the former covers multiple years. Before the Dawn by Michael Block

The author was a Navy commando during the Vietnam War and Before the Dawn is a no-holdsbarred account of what he went through during the war and what happened to him – physically and emotionally – after he was wounded. Co-authored with William Kimball.

I hope you found at least one great history book this month!

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When you hear the word convention you might start thinking about Star Trek or people running around dressed as Lord of the Ring characters. Since convention season is starting I thought I would take the opportunity to introduce you to a few conventions that might interest a teen reader. There is ample opportunity to go to a convention if you live near a major city or convention center, to be honest there are conventions on almost every subject or hobby you may find an interest in from dirt for gardening to airplanes. Really, no joke, anything you could want to check out. Since this is a book magazine and a book column I am going to share with you some of the conventions (cons for short) that might interest YOU. The major event of the year for the book world is called Book Expo America (BEA), it lasts a week in May and is located in NYC. It is a major event and is a wonderful thing to behold when you go, a lot of people go to this event, authors to industry people and there are books as far as the eye can see. Maybe you can convince a parent to let you go for the full contention or if you are local maybe get a day pass, this event is certainly a top one. Teen Author Carnival is usually held in conjunction with BEA and boasts a wide variety of young adult authors and books. Last year it was held in the evening (so if you are local you can go after school) it was free of charge and located in a library in NYC. It was an awesome event and the library was breathtaking. Definitely an event not to miss if you can get there, you can even interview your favorite authors and win free books. The last event I am going to cover is a newer event and it already actually passed for this year, but it is an important one. I know teens, children, and adults the world over that are in love with Harry Potter and all that the world entails. Now you can spend 4 days dressed as your favorite characters, acting out your favorite scenes from books, and talking about your favorite spells. There is a WHOLE CONVETION dedicated to Harry Potter. The con is called Aeternitas. This year is was located in New Hampshire but look it up and see where it will be held next year! ------------------------

Monica is a lover of books and is currently serving her countery abroad!

NOT TO MISS THIS SUMMER

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WICKED-HOT SHEIKHS Sheikhs are among the sexiest heroes in romance novels. Some romance readers go crazy for cowboys (which I like, too, by the way), but I have a weakness for sheikhs. Is it the exotic accent or the equally exotic locales? Is it the swarthy skin? The flowing robes billowing in the wind of the arid desert? The traditional keffiyeh headdress? Or the romantic notion that they are often duty bound to rule their kingdoms according to cultural constraints until the love of a good woman influences them to buck tradition and follow their hearts? I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I can’t get enough of sheikh stories. When you think of a sheikh, you probably envision a Middle Eastern man of great wealth and power, but that may not necessarily be the case. In the Muslim religion, the term is used to address a religious leader. Often, this person would be an Islamic scholar or someone learned in the teachings of the Qur’an. The literal translation of the word sheik from Arabic is “elder,” and it’s also a polite way to address an older man or the patriarch of a family, no matter what his religious affiliation. Whenever I need a sheikh fix, I make my way to the Harlequin website. The countries are usually fictitious, but the writers often incorporate the traditional with the contemporary. The sheikhs may be rulers of their desert homelands, but you’ll find that they’ve been educated in Western universities and are cosmopolitan in mindset and dress (when they’re not sporting traditional clothing).

Here’s a list of just a few of the sheikh stories on my bookshelves: The Throne of Judar trilogy by Olivia Gates is excellent. She also has a new trilogy called the Pride of Zohayd. The first two books are To Tame a Sheikh and To Tempt a Sheikh. Alexandra Sellers’ The Playboy Sheikh and Sheikh’s Betrayal have heroes determined to get the women who broke their hearts back into their beds. Trish Morey’s Forbidden: The Sheikh’s Virgin is about a man who returns to his homeland because his country needs him, and he seeks vengeance on the woman who betrayed him. Sandra Marton’s very sensual The Sheikh’s Rebellious Mistress is about Sheikh Salim al Taj who ends his passionate affair with one of his employees, only to find out she’s disappeared with millions of dollars of his company’s money. Delaney’s Desert Sheikh by Brenda Jackson was re-released last year and topped the romance charts again. In this novel, sparks fly between Sheikh Jamal Ari Yassir and Delaney Westmoreland when they both end up at the same cabin seeking rest and relaxation. This title has been included in the book Wrapped in Pleasure. Outside of Harlequin, sheikh books are harder to come by, but I did manage to find a few at the smaller presses: Jane Beckenham with Red Rose Publishing has two sheikh books: In Love with the Sheikh and The Sheikh’s Proposal. In the first, the hero notices the heroine when she outbids him for an antique brooch

Night Owl Reviews that’s a family heirloom, while the second book asks the question, Will Callie learn the rules of the game or will Tariq take all? Honey Jans with Red Rose Publishing wrote The Sheikh’s Captive where Sheik Alexander Kahn thinks the heroine has been sent to his room as a present from his brother. Shana Green’s sexual fantasy of being a love slave in a wealthy sheikh’s harem is about to come true when she meets Dahoud el Rashid in Ann Jacobs’ Love Slave, an Ellora Cave quickie. Their story continues in the sequel, Forever Enslaved, where they’re married and have survived the clash of cultures, but Dahoud’s neglect causes Shana to leave him. Marianne LaCroix’s Stolen by the Sheik is set in 1912 Morocco. The heroine discovers the shocking truth that her deceased husband has traded her to the very handsome Sheikh Zafar bin Hassan. Nadia Aidan’s heroine in

The Sheikh’s Concubine from Cobblestone Press flees from Sheikh Asad rather than become part of his harem. He sends his son to bring her back, but instead his son takes her as his concubine. The next time you’re looking for a steamy romance with a hot alpha male, try one of these sheikh books. You won’t be disappointed! ---------------------

Delaney Diamond writes African-American and interracial romance. Her second release in the Hot Latin Men series, Fight for Love, will be available from Amira Press this summer. Enjoy free reads on her website at www.delaneydiamond.com.

Love All Year Long

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What is E? An Introduction to eBooks and Technology “De-mystifying e-book format compatibility” There is one thing that can be said about the recent eBook explosion; it’s facilitated a definitive need for a unified file format. During the golden age of the Palm PDA and its various clones, file formats were barely an issue. The standard formats were chm and mobi to name a few. The popularity of e-books transitioning from an afterthought to a mainstream reading choice has created an influx of a variety of e-book formats including: * Plain text files | Format: text | Published as: .txt

* E-books in plain text exist. Hypertext Markup Language | Format: Hypertext | Published as: .htm; .html

* Open Electronic Package | Format: Open eBook | Published as: .opf * OPF is an XML-based e-book format created by E-Book Systems.

* Amazon Kindle | Format: Kindle | Published as: .azw With the launch of the Kindle eBook reader, Amazon.com created the proprietary format, AZW. It is based on the Mobipocket standard, with a slightly different serial number scheme (it uses an asterisk instead of a dollar sign) and its own DRM formatting. Because the eBooks bought on the Kindle are delivered over its wireless system called Whispernet, the user does not see the AZW files during the download process. The Kindle format is now available on a variety of platforms.

Portable Document Format | Format: Adobe Portable Document Format | Published as: .pdf A file format created by Adobe Systems, initially to provide a standard form for storing and editing printed

publishable documents.

* Microsoft LIT | Format: Microsoft Reader | Published as: .lit DRM-protected LIT files are only readable in the proprietary Microsoft Reader program, as the .LIT format, otherwise similar to Microsoft’s CHM format, includes Digital Rights Management features. Other third party readers, such as Lexcycle Stanza, can read unprotected LIT files. There are also tools such as Convert Lit, which can convert .lit files to HTML files or OEBPS files. * eReader | Formerly Palm Digital Media/Peanut Press | Format: Palm Media | Published as: .pdb eReader is a freeware program for viewing Palm

Night Owl Reviews Digital Media electronic books. Versions are available for iPhone, PalmOS, WebOS, Android, Symbian, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile Pocket PC/Smartphone, desktop Windows, and Macintosh. The reader shows text one page at a time, as paper books do. eReader supports embedded hyperlinks and images. Additionally, the Stanza application for the iPhone and iPod Touch can read both encrypted and unencrypted eReader files. * Mobipocket | Format: Mobipocket | Published as: .prc; .mobi The Mobipocket e-book format based on the Open eBook standard using XHTML and can include JavaScript and frames. It also supports native SQL queries to be used with embedded databases. There is a corresponding ebook reader. A free e-book of the German Wikipedia has been published in Mobipocket format.[1]

* EPUB | Main article: EPUB | Format: IDPF/EPUB | Published as: .epub | The EPUB logo. The .epub or OEBPS format is an open standard for e-books created by the International Digital Publishing Forum (IDPF). It combines three IDPF open standards: Data Courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

I know that’s a lot of formats to sift through. Not all of the

formats currently available can be read by all the dedicated or multifunctional devices. Since I also write book reviews, I sometimes find myself switching between my Barnes and Noble nook and the Bluefire app for the iPhone in order to read Adobe protected .PDF e-books. Portability of an eBooks is a primary concern considering the number of formats readily available and the ever growing number of e-reading devices. Well, that pretty much wraps up this edition of Novel Technology “E-books and Technology Made Simple. As always I hope that find this information is helpful and have a pleasant reading experience. 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 “Organize Your E-Book Library”

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The Heart of Romance At the age of 92, with her eyesight failing and her movement limited, my grandmother reads a romance novel daily. Nestled in a blue easy chair in the corner of her bedroom, she pores through new and used paperbacks, losing herself in the unwinding love affair of an intriguing heroine and hero. She met my grandfather at a USO dance in Texas. Along with her two sisters, she’d cross the border of Mexico into Texas and spending the evening on the dance floor in the arms of servicemen. Not only was my grandfather 10 years her junior, she also was his second marriage. Like a good romance trilogy, she married my grandfather, and her two sisters married his two best friends. She’s also a retired high school English teacher. She taught the classics for more than 30 years, and infused the love and importance of literature to countless students. Some people term her selec- tion of books as “bodice rippers.” Does her current choice of reading material diminish her past accomplishments? I grew up reading one of romance’s founders, Danielle Steel, and Mary Higgins Clark, who these days would probably fall into the category of a romantic thriller (rather than “mystery”). My first “erotic” foray consisted of Judy Blume’s “Forever” and “Wifey,” and while my parents had no idea about the “smut” I was reading, my uncle took a look between the covers once and teased me about it. And then in my college days, I discovered the wonders of Anne Rice, writing as A. N.

Roquelaure, and her racy Sleeping Beauty Trilogy. Life never was the same. Diversity

Over the last 10 years, the genre of romance has branched out and it encompasses everything from sweet inspirationals, where the characters attend church together and barely kiss before getting married, to those that attend bondage clubs, and take part in rip-their-clothes off, hot-and-heavy sex. Rather than merely featuring a gay best friend, the number of books with same-sex romances also has increased. And, sometimes, but rarely, doesn’t even include a HEA (Happily Ever After). For as diverse as our population in this world, the romance genre mirrors that range. According to a 2009 article by the RWA, romance continues to “reign” in dominance over other genres of fiction. Readers enjoy the fairy-tale – and sometimes often realistic – portrayal of love everlasting, and quite a few of those readers also like a bit of steam between the sheets. The Readers

RWA reported that: “67 percent of women bought at least one book in 2009, with more women than men considered “heavy” buyers (someone who buys at least 10 paperbacks in a given 12-month period). “This data bodes well for romance fiction, as RWA’s 2009 Reader Survey reports that women make up 90.5 percent of the romance readership, with the heart of the U.S. romance novel readership being women aged 31–49

Night Owl Reviews who are currently in a romantic relationship.8 PubTrack’s Consumer Book Trends 2009 report shows 22 percent of fiction purchases for women aged 30–44 years is romance fiction (the top percentage of fiction purchased by this age group). 9” (Romance Literature Statistics: Industry Statistics http://www.rwa. org/cs/the_romance_genre/ romance_literature_statistics/industry_statistics) What’s the controversy? In the last week of April, a Pennsylvania high school teacher was “outed” for writing romance novels under the pen name Judy Mays. Guess what she teaches? Yep, English – like my grandmother – and so the connections start to be made. Worse yet, according to naysayers, these aren’t inspirational romances; Mays delves in the erotic realm. Although Mays does not discuss her writing in the classroom and she’s taken a pseudonym, some parents have called for her to either give up one career or the other. Since then, Mays’ students, the romance world of readers and writers, and others have bonded together in support of her right to write. At the time of this writing, a support group for Mays on Facebook had reached almost 9,000 members (https://www.facebook.com/SupportJudyMays). So is this a case of the cliché of preaching to the choir? As subscribers and readers of Night Owl Reviews Maga-

zine, one would expect them to embrace romance. Yet, the question remains: do you keep your love affair hidden … in the closet or behind that now nondescript e-reader? Let’s be proud readers – and writers – of romance, and continue to support authors such as Judy Mays, and all of those who keep their passion on the side. Thanks for listening … and I promise next month to feature some ultra, uber-sexy cowboy romances. Until then, enjoy reading, Louisa __________________________

Louisa Bacio’s new erotic paranormal The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome is now available. Drop in for a visit at http://www. louisabacio.com/ and http://www.facebook.com/ louisabacio

LADY OF THE BUTTERLIES - A NOVEL July 2011 by Fiona Mountain Set in Somerset and London during the turbulent time of the Restoration, Lady of the Butterflies is a dramatic tale of passion, prejudice, and death by poison, of riot and rebellion, science and superstition, madness and metamorphosis. It is also about the beauty of butterflies, about hope, transformation, and redemption. 32

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Publishing’s busy season is gearing up and loads of attractive books are about to descend upon anxious readers everywhere. With so many wonderful choices it can be overwhelming to pick out your next great read, so, I’m here to help guide you. To kick off my first column I am focusing on three debut authors that have produced works of Fabulous Fiction, making them a must read this spring! Letters From Home – Kristina McMorris ISBN: 978-0-7582-4684-4

Letters from Home is a novel that will sweep you off your feet as it engulfs you in a story of endearing romance during times of war. Set in the midst of World War II, the story is centered on a soldier who falls in love through a series of letters, though the woman he is writing to is not the one replying. The result is an unexpected romance full of twists and turns, marked by tragedy and deception that brings repercussions heightened by an era of fear and uncertainty. Aside from the obvious charm that surrounds the notion of falling in love through letters, this novel offers intrigue, mystery and deep insight into the lives of those living during World War II. Based off a true story, the book is remarkably original in terms of its content. I absolutely love the cover of this novel! It attracted my attention from the start. After reading this novel, I couldn’t have picked a more perfect cover. It fits the story so well the designer did a wonderful job! In addition, I immensely enjoyed the authors writing style. Each new chapter starts off by telling the reader the date and location of the events about to happen. This guides the

reader effortlessly through the multiple stories going on in this book. The author does an amazing job of keeping the reader glued to the book while switching between stories and characters. I never felt lost. The characters are simply wonderful. Each brings a different viewpoint of the events taking place. They all gave me a deep connection to the story which made me read this book quickly! Overall, it’s steady pace, refreshing content and exciting storyline make this book a wonderful read! This novel is simply wonderful from cover to cover. The Violets of March – Sarah Jio ISBN 978-0-452-29703-6

Sarah Jio quickly became a must read author for me with The Violets of March. The novel follows the story of Emily Wilson, an author who had a bestselling novel, a gorgeous husband and what should have been happily ever after. However, Emily’s world comes crashing down around her and in the aftermath, her great-aunt invites her to spend a month on Bainbridge Island. She accepts, longing to visit her favorite place, in hopes of healing. Soon after Emily arrives, she stumbles upon a diary with an anonymous author. The intriguing story quickly becomes personal and Emily is left to figure out the mystery and secrets of her families past. The story itself is one of the most original and refreshing stories I’ve read lately. It is full of depth and emotion with twists that kept me intrigued. I couldn’t wait to read more of the diary and discover the truth of Emily’s family. Sarah’s writing style was wonderful. I was immersed in this novel. I felt a part of the story, as if it was being told to

WHY A NEW KINDLE! HIGH-CONTRAST E INK SCREEN READ IN BRIGHT SUNLIGHT AMBIENT BRIGHTNESS LESS GLARE IMPROVED PDF READER L I G H T E R T H A N A PA P E R B A C K B AT T E R Y L I F E O F U P T O O N E M O N T H Q U I E T E R PA G E T U R N B U T T O N S B U I LT - I N W I - F I U N I F O R M C O N T R A S T R AT I O N O A P E R T U R E R AT I O L O S S H O L D S 3,500 B O O K S TEXT-TO-SPEECH N O PA R A L L A X

E R I K L A R S O N H A S B E E N W I D E LY A C C L A I M E D A S A M A S T E R O F N A R R AT I V E N O N - F I C T I O N , A N D I N H I S N E W BOOK, THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY TURNS HIS HAND TO A REMARKABLE STORY SET DURING HITLER’S RISE TO POWER. T H E T I M E I S 1933, T H E P L AC E, B E R L I N, W H E N W I L L I A M E . D O D D B E C O M E S A M E R I C A’ S F I R S T A M B A S S A D O R T O H I T L E R ’ S G E R M A N Y I N A Y E A R T H AT P R O V E D T O B E A T U R N I N G P O I N T I N H I S T O R Y. A M I L D - M A N N E R E D P R O F E S S O R F R O M C H I C A G O, DODD BRINGS ALONG HIS WIFE, SON, AND FLAMBOYA N T D A U G H T E R , M A R T H A . AT F I R S T M A R T H A I S E N T R A N C E D B Y T H E PA R T I E S A N D P O M P, A N D T H E H A N D S O M E YO U N G M E N O F T H E T H I R D R E I C H W I T H T H E I R INFECTIOUS ENTHUSIASM FOR RESTORING GERMANY TO A POSITION OF WORLD PROMINENCE. ENAMORED O F T H E “ N E W G E R M A N Y,” S H E H A S O N E A F FA I R A F T E R A N O T H E R , I N C L U D I N G W I T H T H E S U P R I S I N G LY H O N O R A B L E F I R S T C H I E F O F T H E G E S TA P O, R U D O L F D I E L S . BUT AS EVIDENCE OF JEWISH PERSECUTION MOUNTS, C O N F I R M E D B Y C H I L L I N G F I R S T - P E R S O N T E S T I M O N Y, H E R FAT H E R T E L E G R A P H S H I S C O N C E R N S T O A L A R G E LY I N D I F F E R E N T S TAT E D E PA R T M E N T B A C K H O M E . D O D D WAT C H E S W I T H A L A R M A S J E W S A R E AT TA C K E D, T H E P R E S S I S C E N S O R E D, A N D D R A F T S O F F R I G H T E N I N G N E W L A W S B E G I N T O C I R C U L AT E .

www.NightOwlReviews.com me personally rather than the fact that I was reading it. The story is told through Emily, but switches tones when she is reading the diary. The dual storyline is executed beautifully. The characters are an intriguing and well developed group. Each character has a unique vibrant personality. This title has a wonderful and mysterious story that sticks with the reader long after you’ve finished reading it. It would be a perfect beach read this summer! A Dream Unfolding – Karen Baney ISBN 978-1456512316

A Dream Unfolding chronicles two stories that merge together as one. Hannah Anderson is living the life she has always dreamed of until her husband’s brother gets in trouble with the law and their home town turns against them. Without a choice, they leave and head west to the Arizona Territory in hopes of creating a new life, though Hannah is not convinced it’s worth the cost the journey brings. Will Colter, is forced to leave the only home he’s ever known when his father dies and leaves the family ranch to his brother. The journey is dangerous, challenging and full of adventure as Will and his men head to the Arizona Territory to start anew. Uncertain if he will find what he is hoping for, Will places his trust in God and looks forward to his dream. This novel was a delightful debut. I enjoyed it immensely, despite its western setting. This historical fiction takes place during the Civil War and Arizona’s statehood. The author does a wonderful job of being as historically accurate as possible with a fiction title. The characters are well developed, it was easy to bring them to life in my imagination. This novel has a steady and consistent pace, though the story is somewhat predictable. Regardless of this, it was very interesting and kept me captivated. The book will appeal to a variety of readers as it holds romance, adventure, and history.

The author does a wonderful job switching between the two stories and bringing them together. The bonus with this book is that it’s a series! Whether you pick up one of these titles or find another wonderful novel to read, the point of reading is to enjoy! I hope you find your next piece of Fabulous Fiction and share it with others so they can enjoy it too! -------------------

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

CALEB’S CROSSING by Geraldine Brooks A richly imagined new novel from the author of the New York Times bestseller, People of the Book. Once again, Geraldine Brooks takes a remarkable shard of history and brings it to vivid life. In 1665, a young man from Martha’s Vineyard became the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College. Upon this slender factual scaffold, Brooks has created a luminous tale of love and faith, magic and adventure. 35

TIGER’S QUEST BY COLLEEN HOUCK TIGER’S CURSE SERIES BOOK 2 BACK IN OREGON, KELSEY TRIES TO PICK UP THE PIECES OF HER LIFE AND PUSH ASIDE HER FEELINGS FOR REN. BUT DANGER LURKS AROUND THE CORNER, FORCING HER TO RETURN TO INDIA WHERE SHE EMBARKS ON A SECOND QUEST—THIS TIME WITH REN’S DARK, BAD-BOY BROTHER KISHAN, WHO HAS ALSO FALLEN PREY TO THE TIGER’S CURSE. FRAUGHT WITH DANGER, SPELLBINDING DREAMS, AND CHOICES OF THE HEART, TIGER’S QUEST BRINGS THE TRIO ONE STEP CLOSER TO BREAKING THE SPELL THAT BINDS THEM.

TIGER’S CURSE BOOK 1 T H E L A S T T H I N G K E L S E Y H AY E S T H O U G H T S H E ’ D B E D O I N G T H I S S U M M E R WA S T R Y I N G TO B R EA K A 300-Y EA R-O L D I N D I A N CURSE. WITH A MYSTERIOUS WHITE TIG E R N A M E D R E N . H A L F WAY A R O U N D T H E W O R L D. B U T T H AT ’ S E X A C T LY W H AT H A P P E N E D. FA C E - T O - FA C E W I T H D A R K F O R C E S , S P E L L BINDING MAGIC, AND MYSTICAL WORLDS W H E R E N O T H I N G I S W H AT I T S E E M S , KELSEY RISKS EVERYTHING TO PIECE TOG E T H E R A N A N C I E N T P R O P H E C Y T H AT COULD BREAK THE CURSE FOREVER. T I G E R’S C U RS E I S T H E E XC I T I N G F I RST V O L U M E I N A N E P I C FA N TA S Y - R O M A N C E T H AT W I L L L E AV E Y O U B R E AT H L E S S A N D YEARNING FOR MORE.