Night Owl Reviews
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Suspense / Mystery www.SuspenseInsider.com These are just a small portion of the reviews that Night Owl Reviews has available on our website. For a full listing and the most up to date reviews visit our website www.NightOwlReviews.com. Reviews are provided by our review staff. Reviewers get books via NOR and we get books direct from the publishers, authors and publicists. Reviews are based on reviewer thoughts.
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Teen Reads by MonicaBBB...................................4 Manga Insights by Lexile.............................................7 Urban Fantasy and the Paranormal by Roxanne Rhoads..........................11 Romance by Mary Eason..................................14 Cooking Up A Storm With Kyraninse.................................16 Tantalizing Tidbits by The Book Nerd............................19 The Story - Behind - The Story by Michael Davis..............................21 Great Reads by The NOR Staff............................22 History Bits by Lilyraines.....................................26
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Teen Reads
Catherine Fisher Teen Read
Imagine a living prison so vast that it contains corridors and forests, cities and seas. Imagine a prisoner with no memory, who is sure he came from Outside, even though the prison has been sealed for centuries and only one man, half real, half legend, has ever escaped. Imagine a girl in a manor house in a society where time has been forbidden, where everyone is held in a seventeenth century world run by computers, doomed to an arranged marriage that appals her, tangled in an assassination plot she both dreads and desires. One inside, one outside But both imprisoned. Imagine a war that has hollowed the moon, seven skullrings that contain souls, a flying ship and a wall at the world’s end. Imagine the unimaginable. Imagine Incarceron.
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by MonicaBBB
Vampires and Werewolves have been getting it pretty bad for centuries. Every time they come in and out of fashion there are new tales, lore, legends, and enemies to keep track of. There are many variations on the origins of these paranormal species but when dealing with a supernatural, one can never be quite sure. There are stories told by parents to keep their children scared and safe. There are legends involving the wrath of the gods. There are also tales of reanimated corpses and skin walkers. None of which sound very appealing. Vampires and Werewolves have come in and out of fashion many times over the centuries and much like the current ‘Twilight’ craze, each occurrence is markedly different from the last. Some of today’s modern Vamps consist of Edward Cullen from ‘Twilight’, Selene from ‘Underworld’, Zoey from ‘The House of Night’, and Vladamir Tod from the Vladimir Tod series. Their modern day counterparts consist of Jacob Black from ‘Twilight’, Sam from ‘Shiver’, Professor Lupin from ‘Harry Potter’ and Van Helsing. One popular occurrence that keeps popping up is the enmity between Vamps and Weres, which is very different from their previous alumni. The classic Vamps and Weres were less feeling, more like demons and evil beings than humans. The perfect example of
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the classic Vampire is Count Dracula from Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’… he was cold and unfeeling throughout the entirety of the book. The classic example of the nefarious Werewolf would have to be the wolf from Little Red Riding Hood. Who else would have been able to speak to Red and have her Grandma under his skin. I bet you’re never going to look at that fairy tale the same way again. Regardless of who makes up which class of Vamp or Were in the modern or classic era, there has always been something decidedly sensual and romantic about these tortured monsters. Over and over authors have turned tales of woe and demons into a love story featuring Vampires or Werewolves and sometimes both. Whether this craze is coming to a close with the final releases of the ‘Twilight’ movies or its just beginning Vampires and Werewolves have been around centuries longer than we have and they will be for centuries more; I wonder what the next generation will come up with. MonicaBBB is a lover of books and more books!
Young Adult The Vinyl Princess By Yvonne Prinz Harper Teen 4/5 Stars I found The Vinyl Princess to be a really good book. It has a little bit of everything in it. There is mystery, crime, romance and all the little things to make this a successful YA title. All these elements fit together very well to make a very wonderful and memorable story. So, I would suggest that you get a copy and see for yourself. Allie is a vinyl junkie. She has almost every LP imaginable! She works at a record store called Bob & Bob’s, where a lot of people come to sell their old LP’s since almost everyone has turned to downloading all of their music. Allie doesn’t like that all those people are forgetting about vinyl, so she decides to create a blog called “The Vinyl Princess”. At first, the blog doesn’t get many hits, but after time a lot of people want to hear what she has to say. In the meantime, Allie meets a few new people. One of which is a mysterious boy who roams around the record store. She calls him “M”. There is also another boy from New York named Zach, whom Allie finds extremely obnoxious. At the same time, a string of burglaries are happening on the Telegraph, the street that Bob & Bob’s is located on. Nobody knows who the robbers are and they could strike at any time. Reviewed by Jessica It’s a Curl Thing By Jacqueline Thomas Pocket 4/5 Stars Best selling author Jacqueline Thomas writes faith based YA books. This book is connected to the Divine series. Written to entice young adults into reading more, the story line is one that will have you thinking about many different things. The writing is better in each book I have
read and I’m looking forward to getting my hands on any more books that might be available in this line of stories. One subject that is covered in this title is one that we as a people need to remember. Ms. Thomas hits on the topic of the Holocaust. This is a subject that should be discussed more openly in not only families but also in school. It’s good to learn the truth about this horrible time in our history for yourself. It is just about time for Rhyann Hamilton to go to her Sophomore Prom. In preparation of this special event, her Auntie Mo has made her a beautiful copy of a Valentino gown she saw on Rodeo Drive. She has even spent the last couple of years growing her hair out and is letting her sister Tameka do her hair. When her sister messes up royally on Rhyann’s hair the day before prom, Ryann thinks that all is lost. But her BFF Mimi sends her to her own hair stylist at Crowning Glory Hair Salon on Sunset Boulevard. The fix costs more than she had to pay. The owner of the salon, Ms. Marilee is willing to allow her to work off the debt by washing the customers hair. A chance encounter with a customer at the salon may just have a lasting effect on her life. Reviewed by Dianna The Crystal Rose By Ruth Karas Whiskey Creek Press 4.5/5 Stars - Top Pick This story was a fantastic read for me because it transported me into a world where the knights still fought for their king and they had a sense of honor among their people. I fell in love with Breanne and my heart bled for her over the loss of her mother. She grew up helping her father run The Forest’s Edge Inn and both worked very hard at trying to make ends meet and keep their patrons happy.
ances and comically narrated all of the pup’s silly antics throughout the story. The scene-by-scene descriptions made me feel as if I was another character in the story witnessing it unfold before me. The Crystal Rose is listed under the Young Adult/ Fantasy genre, but I assure you that as an adult I was fascinated by how the story played out for me as I turned the pages. I feel this story will be considered a hit by readers of any age and I eagerly look forward to reading more stories written by this author. Reviewed by Diana Coyle Devilish By Maureen Johnson Razorbill 5/5 Stars - Top Pick Devilish is a funny, unpredictable read. I found this book highly entertaining and an excellent read. It’s senior year at St. Teresa’s Preparatory School for Girls. And the big thing about being a senior is getting a “little” which is getting a freshman or new student and showing them around. But the key is getting a good little. This is where the trouble and story begins. Jane Jarvis’ best friend Allison Concord ends up in a messy and very embarrassing situation the first day of senior year. And Jane has to comfort Allison thereby missing her chance to get a little. But Allison does get a little in the form of Lanalee. And soon the new, “improved” Allison shows up with new hair, new clothes, a cell phone and loads of confidence. The new Allison is also blowing off her best friend Jane. With the help of another strange but wise freshman named Owen, Jane finds out the truth. Ally sold her soul to the devil. And that’s when the fight begins – for Allison’s soul. Will Jane be able to win Allison’s soul back? Or will she lose her own in the process? Reviewed by Danni
I absolutely adored the two dragons in the story, Edana the mother dragon and Eth, her pup. I enjoyed how the author vividly described both dragons’ appearNight Owl Reviews
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How to Ditch Your Fairy By Justine Larbalestier Bloomsbury 4/5 Stars
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HOW TO DITCH YOUR FAIRY is the newest YA book by the very talented Justine Larbalestier, author of the Magic or Madness Trilogy. The reader is introduced to the town of New Avalon, a place where everyone has their own fairy. Having the right kind of fairy at New Avalon Sports High School is very important because it can affect your entire high school experience. I adore Justine Larbalestier’s writing and will read anything she writes. This new book is a bit different from her Magic and Madness Trilogy as it’s not full of magic but it is still a fun read. The writing flows very well and I could see Young Adults and Adults both loving this book. Overall, HOW TO DITCH YOUR FAIRY is a fun read that left me with a smile on my face. Charlotte Adele Donna Seto Steele or just Charlie to her friends and family is fourteen years old and has a parking fairy. Charlie doesn’t drive yet and finds her fairy to be completely annoying and useless. No matter where she is, or whose car she is in, her fairy always finds the closest and best parking spot around.
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But all good things come with a downside. One of the guys at school has taken to kidnapping Charlie so she can help him get a good spot for his car. He doesn’t care what she’s doing; he will just snatch her up and throw her in his car so he can use her parking fairy. Charlie is tired of it and wants to be rid of her fairy for once and for all. Charlie decides if she walks everywhere and avoids all transportation, she will starve her fairy from having parking fun and it will eventually fade away and leave her. In the mean time, the most popular girl in school, Fiorenza, is sick of all the attention she receives. Sure all the boys love her thanks to her fairy, but all the girls hate her! This includes Charlie since the new boy at school Stephan or Steffi to her, is following Fiorenza around like a lovesick puppy. He seemed to like Charlie but because of Fiorenza’s fairy, he has no control over what he really thinks or feels about her anymore. Charlie and Fiorenza form an unlikely friendship when they decide they will rid
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themselves of their fairies together. Fiorenza’s mom has a book about fairies but it’s hidden in a locked box. Fiorenza is positive the answer to ridding yourself of your fairy is within the pages of her mother’s book. So the two girls must work together to ditch their fairies. Will the girls successfully lose their fairies or will they end up with worse fairies then before? Reviewed by Rachael Twisted Sisters By Stephanie Hale Berkley 4.5/5 Stars - Top Pick Twisted Sisters was a quick, fun and easy read. The twists and turns of the plot, crazy characters and mystery will keep you turning pages. Aspen’s growth and maturity from the first book to this one was refreshing. If you’re looking for a gripping, engaging thriller don’t let the fact that is a teen/young adult book stop you from reading Twisted Sisters. Aspen Brooks survived her senior year and being stalked and kidnapped in the Revenge of the Homecoming Queen and now she’s about to enter her first year of college in Twisted Sisters. And Aspen expects things to go much smoother than last year and things are already looking up. Detective Harry Malone is paying for her tuition, her boyfriend Rand Bachrach is going to State with her instead of to Harvard and they’re in the same dorm one floor from each other. And in what is supposed to be the best time of her life, Aspen is soon faced with the realities of life in college. Though she gets accepted into Zetas, her reasons for joining aren’t exactly sisterhood. Harry’s niece Mitzi, who went missing last semester, was a Zeta. She wants to find out what happened to Mitzi and she isn’t the only one. Will Aspen be able to solve the mystery of Mitzi’s disappearance? Will Rand and her relationship survive the first year of college? Is Koop’s motive pure or is there an ulterior motive behind his actions? Reviewed by Danni
Manga Insights by Lexile
Valentine’s Day & White Day in Manga For the next few months I’ll be introducing you to the various categories of manga. From Josei to Shounen I’ll give you a brief overview of the category and some prime examples from today’s translated material. By no means will this be the most elaborate or expansive journey through the cultural phenomenon (I suggest you look up the book Manga: the Complete Guide by Jason Thompson, though a couple years out of date, its a wonderful beginner’s guide as well as resource for manga lovers) but it should serve to help you at least distinguish the differences in each category. To get you warmed up however, and since its the month of love, I’ll talk about a concept found in almost every single shoujo or school-set manga: Valentine’s Day and White Day. Valentine’s Day is of no surprise to western readers, but White Day is a uniquely Asian custom celebrated on March 14th. On Valentine’s Day a girl presents the boy she likes with chocolate--there by announcing her affections. On White Day however, the boy is then obligated to present the girl who’s chocolates he accepted, with a token of his own interest (usually that costs more). In shoujo manga, especially the ones centered around romance, you will often find a guy who is loved by a great number of girls and be presented with more chocolates then a store has
Manga
to sell. Here’s the trick--if he doesn’t publicly acknowledge the gift, then he doesn’t have to return it come March 14th! The linked holidays are often exploited for comedic results in both Shoujo (girl’s comics) and Shounen (Boy’s comics) manga as a female character labors over her perfect Valentine’s Day gift or the male character tries to avoid the holiday at all costs. In the TokyoPop manga Fruits Basket (by Natsuki Takaya) the character of Kyo is so scared of being presented with chocolate from his overly ardent admirer Kagura that the mere mention of the holiday has him violently trying to escape to the mountains. Conversely in the CLAMP short anthology The One I Love, the short story of ‘Courage’ examines a young girl’s need to confess her feelings on Valentine’s Day because its such a special day. That’s it for this month, come back next month when I tell you some more about what ‘shoujo’ is...and why the guys can sometimes be as pretty as girls! Lexile is...your friendly, neighborhood otaku. She’s been known to wander aimlessly through bookstores, correcting customer misconceptions about manga for years--much to the chagrin of her tolerant friends and ire of the bookstore employees. You can find her at her personal blog Poisoned Rationality if she’s not busy with the mundaneness that is real life.
Manga Night Owl Reviews
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Nothing is what it seems in the pages of A Reliable Wife, the debut novel by adman and memoirist Robert Goolrick. What starts as a brooding tale of trickery and betrayal is, in fact, a meditation on loneliness. It has roots that reach far beyond the frigid Wisconsin landscape where the tale is set, and which suck their sustenance from the personal torment of Goolrick’s own southern-gothic past.
ISBN-13: 9781565129771 Pub. Date: January 2010 Paperback, 320pp
It’s a frigid mid-October night in 1907 and Ralph Truitt, a wealthy industrialist living near the Canadian border, is meeting the train. It carries Catherine Land, his mail-order bride, who answered his newspaper ad for a “reliable wife.” As happens in all small towns, Truitt’s private business has become public. Waiting on the railroad platform, he’s surrounded by curious neighbors, most of whom his mills or mines employ. Publisher: Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill
A Lords of the Underworld tale An iron-willed demon assassin, the angel Lysander has never known lust—until he meets Bianka. Spawned from the bloodline of Lucifer, the beautiful but deadly Harpy is determined to lead the pure-hearted Lysander into temptation…. Love Me to Death by Maggie Shayne Twenty-two years ago four teenage boys were convicted of a young girl’s murder. Now, in the form of a beautiful woman, the “victim” is seeking vengeance. And only one man dares to dig into the past to uncover its secrets… and set her free. Lady of the Nile by Susan Krinard Lady Tameri believes herself to be the reincarnation of an ancient Egyptian princess, and Leo Erskine has set out to prove her wrong…never dreaming that the two of them are about to discover a prophecy that will bind them together forever. 8
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Science Fiction & Fantasy Hastur Lord By Deborah J. Ross Penguin Group 4.75/5 Stars - Top Pick Marion Zimmer Bradley started her last Darkover novel Hastur lord before her death in 1999; she was never able to finish it due to her deteriorating health. Her friend Deborah J. Ross completed Hastur Lord for her after her Death. Ross does a excellent job of melding her work into Bradley’s to the point that you can’t tell the difference. The book is just like all of Bradley’s books are, wonderfully exciting. The main difference is that this one adds in a bit of darkness, along with romance and the age old story, family or your dreams. Regis Hastur is heir to the throne of Darkover but he wants to travel and see the world instead. His grandfather is dying and the taking over of that position is looming in the near future for Regis. There is a problem going on in the Senate and it could change things for the Terran Empire forever. Reviewed by Zollyanna A Darkness Forged in Fire By Chris Evans Iron Elves, Book 1 Pocket 4.75/5 Stars - Top Pick A complex fantasy world with a variety of races each with the same immediate goal though for many different reasons come together in a interesting story. There are several characters that spiked my imagination and I can’t wait to see them in future books. Find a comfortable spot and start reading. You’ll soon find yourself in a steamy land until “She” finds you. This is not a book that the normal reader is going to finish in an afternoon for a couple of reasons. The one most obvious is the length of this book is over 600 pages. The other is the complexity
of the story. This isn’t a story that you’re going to be able to skim through and get all the subtle things going on. I’m sure I missed some things and I know I had to stop and really think about others. Yet, as long as this book is, the story couldn’t have been shortened. There are things happening throughout it keeping your interest. However, I was ready for it to end when it did though the story is obviously not finished. It was a good resting place. Reviewed by Terrid A Girl’s Guide to Guns and Monsters Edited by Matin H. Greenberg & Kerri Hughes DAW 4/5 Stars An impressive complement of monsters in all shapes and sizes are soundly defeated by females who are willing to use any weapon to protect their loved ones, whether they be human or Other, A diverse collection of paranormal stories sure to appeal to a wide variety of readers. The sobering introduction to A Girl’s Guide to Guns and Monsters reminds us that not all monsters are fictional and it requires a special kind of person who is willing to take a stand in order to defeat evil. Editors Martin H. Greenberg and Kerrie Hughes have gathered a baker’s dozen of stories that remind the reader that it helps to have the right kind of weapon for fighting as well as nerves of steel and gritty determination. Reviewed by Elf Roadkill By Rob Thurman Cal and Niko #5 Penguin Group 4/5 Stars I fell in love with Cal from the beginning. He’s a trigger-happy smart ass who is more likely to
shoot first, ask questions later and I loved his wicked sense of humor. The story is told in mostly his point of view but we do get some insight from Catcher, the guy who is stuck as a wolf. I would have liked to have read from Niko’s point. He’s a really interesting character and I just wished the story would have been told from his point, as well. The trickster Robin Goodfellow was hilarious! He easily became one of my favorite characters. The plot is just a never-ending thrillride... Cal Leandros is not completely human. He’s a mix between Auphe, an ancient race of nightmare-worthy beings and human. As such, he’s pretty much hated by everyone and feared on sight. There’s only one person who doesn’t want him dead and that is his brother, Niko, who is completely human. They run a private investigation business together and are incredibly close. Now, they have a new job. An ancient Gypsy queen, who by the way, almost got Niko killed in the past and Cal would be more than happy to shoot her in the head than anything, wants them to find someone. But we’re not talking about an old boyfriend or someone who owes her money, but an antihealer locked in a coffin who is called the Plague of the World. That little nickname should give you a hint just how evil this guy is. He was stolen by someone unknown and Cal and Niko have to find them before the guy who makes the Black Death seem like children’s play gets out of his coffin and makes the world one unhappy place. Reviewed by Wendy The Light of Burning Shadows By Chris Evans Iron Elves, Book 2 Pocket 4.75/5 Stars - Top Pick The Light of Burning Shadows picks up where A Darkness Forged in Fire left off. The Iron Elves have left Elfkyna and its Star and are headed south to Nuzulla Bay. Along the way they stop at a series of Night Owl Reviews
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Riley Jenson Guardian Novels
Urban Fantasy
islands where they find the inhabitants dead and some really scary creatures occupying them. On the last island, a strange new magic makes an appearance when it catches a shadow on fire! What can this new development mean? Because this book is so complex with multiple main characters and several plots going on at once, you can’t just sit and do a quick read. You actually have to pay attention to what you are reading! No light fluff of a book here. If you enjoy a good fantasy with depth, plot wise and character wise, give this series a try. I found the second book to be excellent and I’m enjoying seeing the unique twists that are happening. I was shocked when a character that I was sure was long gone showed up and looks to be a very influential character in upcoming books. I was also saddened when characters that I came to love will probably not be seen again. Yet, as this story progresses, I’m sure I’ll find more lovable characters. As with the residents of Calahria, I find it interesting to read about the Iron Elves exploits. Reviewed by Terrid In the Courts of the Sun By Brian D’Amatos Penguin Group 4/5 Stars
Keri Arthur 10
In the Courts of the Sun is cleverly written and the extensive research which must have gone into writing adds to the vividness of the story. This is a creative book centering around a doomsday plot and time travel. It’s a thought-provoking, intelligent read filled with complicated and human characters. Brian D’Amato has written a wonderfully woven, richly detailed tale which features an exciting mix of terror, suspense, culture, history and science fiction. This book is not an easy read. In the Courts of the Sun is an extremely complex read. It wanders at time and the storyline does get a bit intense and overwhelmed in all the details. It is not a fast read and in order to fully understand everything and capture all the details it should be read slowly. The book is 679 pages long and is the first volume in the Sacrifice Game trilogy. But In the Courts of the Sun was still
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a gripping read. The breath-taking detail and description of Mayan life, people and culture makes this, overall, an enjoyable book. December 12, 2012 is the last day of the Mayan calendar. It is the day which is supposed to mark the end of the world. This is the story of Jed DeLanda, a Mayan descendant who is an expert at the “Sacrifice Game”. Reviewed by Danni Spells of the City By Jean Rabe, Matin H. Greenberg Penguin Group 3.25/5 Stars I liked this book okay. The major problem was just that the stories ended at bad points I think. I wanted to know more. But I guess that is the way with short stories, there seems to be always more to them that is not told. The thing I liked the most about this book was the stories of Gargoyles. I have been fascinated by Gargoyles since I watched the cartoon that used to be on with the Gargoyle who fell in love with a human and she fell in love with him. They could not be together for obvious reasons but it didn’t make them love each other less. This is a book basically about things that everyone thinks of as myths, etc. I think after reading this book everyone will look at their crazy next door neighbor, or the cranky old homeless guy who lives in the alley, etc, just a little differently from now on. I know I will, of course I have always had a great imagination and have seen things where others do not so it won’t be too much of a difference for me. This book has some great short stories in it. Some I didn’t like so much, but just like everyone some myths you like and others not so much. I don’t like things like gremlins, trolls and anything gross, so some stories I liked better than others as I am sure any reader will. Reviewed by Sherylyn
Urban Fantasy and the Paranormal by Roxanne Rhoads
Roxanne Rhoads is a story stumpet, tome loving tart, and lover of all things paranormal. She is also a freelance writer and the author of erotic paranormal romances.
For fans of paranormal and urban fantasy books February is your month because several heavy hitters in these genres have new books being released. Laurell K Hamilton’s newest Anita Blake novel, Flirt hit stores on February 2nd and she held her one and only signing for this book at a Barnes and Noble in Atlanta, Georgia on the same day. Gerry Bartlett’s 5th installment in the hilarious Glory St. Clair vampire series, Real Vampires Hate Their Thighs, also hit the book shelves February 2nd as did Vicki Lewis Thompson’s first book in her new Babes with Brooms series, Blonde with a Wand. Both series add a little humor and chick lit style into the world of the paranormal. These reads are sure to conjure up a few laughs. Both authors have inspired snorts, snarfs and barely suppressed giggles from me while reading some of their previous books. Jeaniene Frost’s first book in the Night Huntress World- a spinoff of her Night Huntress Series, First Drop of Crimson hit stores February 9th with the second book in this spinoff series, Eternal Kiss of Darkness, scheduled to be released in July. I can’t wait to read Frost’s new series though I am going to miss Cat and Bones and hope she returns to writing them soon. Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole is scheduled for release February 16th. The
newest edition to The Immortals After Dark series features the Lykae Prince, Garreth MacRieve. Cole never disappoints with her darkly sexy characters and delicious sex scenes. This one’s on my wish list for sure. Kim Harrison’s highly anticipated Rachel Morgan book, Black Magic Sanction will be released February 23rd. She kicks off her book signing tour on the 23rd in Charlotte, NC and has stops in Ohio, Michigan (where I’m at -woo hoo I might actually get to see her this tour) and Minnesota. For exact times and locations visit: http://www.kimharrison.net/Kim’s%20SightingsAppearances.htm Up and comer to the genre, Diana Rowland’s second book in her demon summoning, Kara Gillian series, Blood of the Demon, hits store February 23rd as well. If you haven’t read her first book, Mark of the Demon, I highly recommend it. This is definitely an author to check out. Those are some fang-tastic authors and some absolutely must have books coming out this month. I don’t know about you but they’ve all been added to my wish list. Happy February Reading! Authors if you have news you’d like to have mentioned in this column in upcoming months please email it to Roxanne at RoxanneRhoads@aol.com
Phaedra Weldon
A Zoe Martinique Investigation Series Just when Zoë Martinique, formerly ordinary twentysomething, was getting used to the idea that she was possessed of extraordinary powers, she lost them. Without cause or warning. And at the worst possible time. 9780441018871 Penguin (USA) www.Penguin.com
May 25, 2010 Night Owl Reviews
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Romance Cupid in Blue By Sandra Sookoo Lyrical Press 5/5 Stars - Top Pick Sandra Sookoo gives us a wild and wacky adventure in Cupid in Blue. Her new take on the mythical creature “Cupid” is sure to give you laughs and tickle your fancy, I know it did mine. So take out the chocolates and get ready for a fun read as you learn that Cupid sometimes has his own problems. Aaron has become the new Cupid and doesn’t know why; he doesn’t know how he is going to be able to handle this new job of his especially since he doesn’t have a love life of his own. His brother Landon seems to be handling his new appointment as Father Christmas with stride and thinks that it is great that he is the new cupid and that they are keeping the magic “In the family”…so to speak. Jenika works for Aaron at his bakery called Just Cookies. She has made it prosper since she moved from New York and started working for him three months ago. But now her ex-roommate Catherine wants to sell their old apartment in New York and doesn’t want to wait around on Jenika. When Catherine finds a buyer she tries to get Jenika to sign the deed to the apartment over to her. Jenika doesn’t trust Catherine since she has lied to her before and wants to read the deed to make sure that is all she is selling and nothing more. When Aaron and Catherine meet something seems to spark on the first day. She sees him falling from the sky and notices his wings. When he tells her he is Cupid she mocks him especially since Cupid doesn’t have a girlfriend. They both have an electric attraction for each other that neither wants to agree they have. But it is Aaron’s job to help others find true love. So can he help Catherine and himself, find their true loves? Will it be each other and If so can Aaron convince Catherine that love is easy to find? A dreamy and enchanting read. 12
Reviewed by Zollyanna Shadow Wolf By Sable Grey Total-E-Bound 3.5/5 Stars Unrequited love is always fodder for a hot read, and this was no exception. I now look at my kitchen island in a whole new way. While a short read, it covered a lot of ground and I was never disappointed in the pace. A quick hot read that used the paranormal to add an exciting edge. Dreams of a wolf have plagued Belinda Boutwell for years now. She suspects she knows who it is; Dean Rynes. Dean is her husband’s bodyguard and friend. But she is certain he is so much more. Her dreams are never wrong. When a stalker kills her husband and pursues her, she and Dean are thrown together and her suspicions are confirmed in a moment of passion. She also discovers Dean will do anything to protect her. Dean had been friends with Belinda’s husband for years. He’s one of the few who know his secret. While he protects his friend with his life, he’s also disgusted by the way he treats his wife Belinda. Belinda deserves so much more, and he secretly loves her. Determined to never reveal his true feelings, he is caught off guard when he and Belinda are joined together to fight her stalker. But can she accept him for what he is? Reviewed by Chris Don’t Kill the Messenger By Eileen Rendahl Penguin Group 4.5/5 Stars - Top Pick Don’t Kill the Messenger is the debut novel by Eileen Rendahl and I absolutely loved it! Melina’s a super awesome heroine. She’s kind of stuck with this gig that she
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can’t get out of and trying to make the best of it. Yeah, she can be a bit of a hard ass but she’s also really lonely and vulnerable and that makes her a more threedimensional character who’s easily to care about. At first I wasn’t so sure about Ted, he was being his very nosy-cop self and I kept thinking that he would just get in the way and be useless but he totally surprised me. I think Melina and him make a very good couple and are able to work well together and let’s admit, the sexy scenes are pretty hot but I also wondered about Alex, the vampire, because it seemed like he wouldn’t mind getting with Melina. I’m still a bit torn about who to cheer for but thankfully, this is definitely not the last we’ve seen of Melina and her world. Rendahl has a really distinctive voice. Her writing’s nicely detailed and with a little sarcastic wit thrown in, I felt was great. I think this series has the potential to become awesome and definitely one of my favorites. Don’t Kill the Messenger is a fantastic debut that I thoroughly enjoyed and I’m definitely looking forward to Rendahl’s next book! Reviewed by Wendy Misty Dreams By Charlotte Parker The Wild Rose Press 5/5 Stars - Top Pick Ah time travel I so love this theme and especially when it involves gorgeous outlaws like Seth Lucan. I feel sad for Seth for here is a guy who is trying so hard to lead a normal life and because of family can’t. Elita on the other hand wants her family but wants love more than ever. These two are great for each other for both have issues but Charlotte Parker does a great job in bringing love to their lives. These are two people who will have to overcome so many obstacles and time to get the love they both deserve. The author pulls it off flawlessly. Elita La Rue has no love in her life. Her father hates her and blames her for
her mother’s death. All her life has been centered around trying to prove to him that she is better than a son. He has many times pointed out to her that she should never have been born. Elita just wants love and maybe to have been born in another century. Her dreams are of Seth Lucan. He is a gunfighter who was an outlaw in his time. Somehow he entered into her heart and into her century. She knows it’s impossible yet somehow he is working in her father’s Wild West theme town. Elita knows she can’t keep him but for once in her life she feels loved. Is it possible to fall in love with a man from the past? Seth Lucan just wants a normal life. He is tired of being known as an outlaw and a gunfighter. Family can sometimes be a pain in the rear and he knows that from experience. All his life he has been trying to lead a decent life. So it comes as a surprise that he meets Elita La Rue. She is another woman who somehow entered into his heart. He’s tried to deny the attraction and love. A man like him doesn’t get love in his life or a good woman like her. She says she is from 2009 and that somehow he came into her world. Seth has never seen anything like it. There are guns with fake bullets, cars instead of horses and men who don’t treat their women right. He wants more than ever to give the love Elita so deserves but is afraid. Can a man like him from the past love a 21st century woman like Elita? Reviewed by Melinda Most Eagerly Yours By Allison Chase Penguin Group 3.75/5 Stars I actually loved the characters in this book. They were interesting and fun to read about. Laurel finds that there is more of a mystery to her family than she had been lead to believe which means that this should be incorporated in her sister’s books. Aidan had no desire to fall in love or marry. He does like to ferret out secrets though and it looks like Laurel has one to keep him busy for a while.
Secret papers, magical medical drinks and a mysterious death are fantastic elements for a good story. Unfortunately, somewhere along the line this story got off track a bit. While Laurel and Aidan did look for the answers, their investigation seemed to bog down in places and drag in others. At points, I wasn’t sure if they remembered what they were doing! Still, they seemed to get themselves back to their investigation and not only find out what was going on but they found out some things about themselves. The historical background of this story though was exceptional. Because Bath was an historical town even during this stories setting, the interest in the Roman baths was natural. I thoroughly enjoyed the intertwining of the history lessons throughout this book. Laurel Sunderland and her sisters, Holly, Ivy and Willow have known Queen Victoria since she was a young girl. Their fathers were all in the military together otherwise they would have never met. The Sunderlands are not titled ladies. Still, the girls have a close relationship and the Sunderland sisters have sworn their support to the young Victoria. Now, several years later, Victoria is calling on Laurel for help. Aidan Phillips, Earl of Barensforth works as an undercover agent for the Home Office. His primary jobs have been checking out financial hoaxes and keeping George Fitzclarence out of trouble. With Laurel and Aidan both trying to find out what is going on, they found themselves frequently thrown together. Neither is talking but each seems a bit suspicious of the other as they try to figure out what is going on. Can they come to an understanding quickly so they can help each other or will secrecy win? It doesn’t help that they are attracted to each other. Aidan is jealous by Laurel’s attention to Fitzclarence, which is a first. Laurel has been told to stay away from the Earl of Barensforth by Victoria! So, why does she feel so safe around him?
Harlequin Deadly Redemption Kathleen Korbel
Dante’s Contract Marriage Day LeClaire
Reflections & Dreams Nora Roberts
Reviewed by Terri
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Romanceby Mary Eason
The New Wild West – The Appeal of the Contemporary Western Romance There’s just something about a cowboy isn’t there? Whether he’s riding across the hot open range or struggling to survive another winter in the mountains, I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for man in a cowboy hat. For some reason, when you mix together spirited heroine and a man in a Stetson, you have all the main ingredients for a great love story. Today, there are contemporary western romances created to fit just about everyone’s taste, from Inspirational to Erotica. The challenges facing the contemporary western author are not easy ones to overcome. First and foremost is to create a great love story fit to be included in the honored genre of western romance. To do this, the author must fulfill these three steps. First, there must be an appealing backdrop for the story. Contemporary westerns can take place in the vast Southwest of Texas, Oklahoma or New Mexico, the rugged Rocky Mountains of Colorado, or the open majesty of Montana or Wyoming. That’s one of the great aspects of a contemporary western. It takes the reader to places some of us can only imagine. Whether it’s wide-open spaces or remote mountain terrain, survival for the hero and heroine can be as physical as the love stories themselves. Second, the author must invent a love story worthy of being branded a western. In other words, there are some Texas-sized boots to fill (forgive the pun. I am a Texan at heart after all). The modern day western romance demands a story that will leave the reader wanting more. And last, but never least, you need to have a hero and heroine the reader can fall in love with and wish they could step right in to the pages of the story and become part of the story, if only for a little while. When it comes to great contemporary western romances, 2010 is filled with promise. This month, I’ve displayed just some contemporary western romances I’ve fallen in love with. I hope you come away feeling the same way. Mary Eason is the author of books such as “A Night to Remember” and “Root of All Evil”. You can find Mary online at http://www.maryeason.com.
Roses by Leila Meacham Spanning the 20th century, the story of Roses takes place in a small East Texas town against the backdrop of the powerful timber and cotton industries, industries controlled by the scions of the town’s founding families. Cotton tycoon Mary Toliver and timber magnate Percy Warwick should have married but unwisely did not, and now must deal with the deceit, secrets, and tragedies of their choice and the loss of what might have been—not just for themselves but for their children, and children’s children. With expert, unabashed, big-canvas storytelling, Roses covers a hundred years, three generations of Texans and the explosive combination of passion for work and longing for love. 14
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Book Conventions & Events
Hot Fiction | Hot Fiction | Hot Fiction
SleuthFest February 26-28, 2010 Comic-Con Toronto March 26-28, 2010 Comic-Con Anaheim April 16-19, 2010 EPICon Ebook Convention March 4-7, 2010 - New Orleans, LA MegaCon 3/12/2010 - Orlando, FL Emerald City ComiCon 3/13/2010 - Seattle, WA Comic-Con Toronto March 26-28, 2010 Comic-Con Anaheim April 16-19, 2010 RT Booklovers Convention April 28-May 2, 2010 - Columbus , Ohio Book Expo America May 25-27, 2010 - New York, NY ConQuest 41 Steampunk & Evil Geniuses May 28-30, 2010 RomConvention July 9-11, 2010 - Denver, Colorado Comic-Con Chicago August 19-22, 2010 AussieCon September 2-6, 1020 - Melbourne, Australia Comic-Con New York October 7-10, 2010
Renovation Science Fiction Convention August 17-21, 2011 - Reno, Nevada
Hot Fiction | Hot Fiction | Hot Fiction Night Owl Reviews
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Cooking Up A Storm
With Kyraninse
Wolfgang Puck Adventures in the Kitchen
Ease of preparation: 2 stars Ease of sourcing ingredients: 3 stars Length of preparation: 1 star Ease of scaling recipes: 1 star Overall: 2.5 stars (Not recommended for the average home cook) When I first flipped open the covers of this book, I was struck by a thought: “This is the sort of menu I would love to see in a restaurant -- but between the pages of a cookbook? Not so much.” Sampling of dishes: Foie Gras Terrine, Tempura Sashimi with Uni Sauce, and Broiled Quail with Persimmon Relish. The author does try to be as clear as possible in writing out the recipes, but unless the reader watches the Food Network on a regular basis, I think that the average reader might be a bit lost when talking about “butterflying” shrimp, cleaning liver, “sweating” vegetables, or even deglazing. I do give the author props for the occasional illustration to help, but there weren’t nearly enough of those in the book. Something else that would have been a great addition would have been estimated cooking times, in terms of prep, hands-on cooking, in addition to the oven times and such. The recipes and instructions for the basics such as stock and salad dressing were well-done though, and I think they would be helpful to anyone. I was slightly disappointed not to have a recipe for their Caesar dressing though. I also found that the ingredients that were called for a bit too pricey for casual experimentation -- I didn’t feel comfortable about blowing half my week’s grocery money on materials for one dish that might or might not turn out well. Certain items might even be hard to find depending on where you are in the US -- I know that in my college town, I would have been really hard pressed to find fresh duck liver or uni. Granted, I do live in Massachusetts, so I have access to some of the more high-end stores, but on my budget I would really prefer if I could find all I needed at the local grocery store. Further along that note, these dishes all require quite a bit of prep work, if not actual hands-on cooking time. A person who hasn’t had lessons in knifework might find themselves intimidated by just the sheer amount of chopping, mincing, and julienning required. Not to mention that a lot of these recipes aim to serve anywhere from 4 16
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to 6 to 8 people. Some recipes even serve as many as 12. I was disappointed that the recipes weren’t scaled down to at least 4 people servings, and considering how many single people and married couples there are who might not entertain on a regular basis -- 2 person portions would have been a lovely though. Besides, if I don’t have to face the thought of throwing away a mountain of food if I fail or eat the same dish until I never want to see it again, I might be more inclined to try some of the other recipes. I do think that the more seasoned cook would find this cookbook intriguing and perhaps a bit challenging. This is also definitely a good gift for those talented cooks you know who might want to expand their repertoire beyond the ordinary. I just wouldn’t send my kitchen novice college bound friend off with this in the hopes that they’ll be able to feed themselves well off it. I picked the wild mushroom risotto to test out and it came out well. Tasty enough that I might try making it again, but it takes far too long over the stove. Mushroom Risotto 1/2 cup peanut oil 1/2 pound minced onion 1 large garlic clove, minced 2 cups arborio rice 1 cup dry white wine 2 cups mushroom stock 2 cups chicken stock 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 pound wild mushrooms salt 1/4 cup chopped tomato 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 ounces grated Parmesan large pinch chopped Italian parsley Freshly ground black pepper Heat the peanut oil in a medium-size heavy saucepan. Over medium high heat, saute the onion and garlic just to soften, stirring all the while, 3-4 minutes. Add the rice and continue to stir, using a wooden spoon, coating the rice with the oil and onion. Note to the wise: Rinsing the rice beforehand is not a good idea unless you drain it well and let it air-dry. At that point, why bother? I also used short-grain sushi rice instead and found that it made a good substitution. Deglaze with the white wine and cook until the liq-
Continued on Page 20
Suspense / Mystery The Charlemagne Pursuit By Steve Berry Random House 5/5 Stars - Top Pick The Charlemagne Pursuit is another wonderful read and I look forward to reading the next installment. Cotton Malone has always thought that his father perished in a submarine in the North Atlantic. What he learns now, courtesy of a classified file provided to him as a favor by his former boss, is that the submarine his father was on was on a classified mission beneath the Antarctic ice when it was lost. And so begins another Cotton Malone tale. It is one that takes him across Germany and, eventually, to Antarctica. The story weaves contemporary actions with bits of history from Charlemagne’s time and intertwines this with Germany during World War II (or at least the Ahnenerbe and some of its members) and US operations in Antarctica during the 1950s. Reviewed by Lilyraines Cat Playing Cupid By Shirley Rousseau Murphy HarperCollins 4.25/5 Stars This is another enjoyable Joe Grey tale. The talking cats have a bond of trust with the small number of humans that are privy to their secrets although the circle continues to expand. The harrowing scenes of danger remind the reader of the limitations that cannot be discounted when one lacks opposable thumbs but there are still remarkable benefits to speak-
ing a human language such as being able to verbally command one’s canine allies. Several romantic relationships (both feline and human) are showcased and demonstrate the complications involved in melding two independent entities into a comfortable pairing. Cat Playing Cupid by Shirley Rousseau Murphy describes the events involved in Joe Grey’s human, Clyde Damen, getting married to Ryan Flannery. Fortunately for the peace of the longtime bachelor household, Ryan knows about the uncanny abilities of the cats Joe, Dulcie and Kit and is willing to help keep their conversational and deductive abilities a discreet secret known to only a few privileged humans. Clyde and Ryan leave on their pleasure mixed with business honeymoon blissfully unaware that their furry friends are about to become embroiled in yet another murder investigation. Ryan’s father Mike has retired and has to reexamine his romantic feelings about one of the potential suspects as well as deal with the competition from Ryan’s uncle, Dallas Garza. There is also an upheaval in the feral cat clowder and the discovery that there is a book that describes the talking cats shakes the security that the investigative feline trio has felt. Kit, in particular, is torn between her wild nature and the allure of the feral tom Sage and the comfort and companionship that she has found with her human friends. Reviewed by Elf The Butterflies of Grand Canyon By Margaret Erhart Penguin Group 4/5 Stars The Butterflies of the Grand Canyon was part mystery, part love story, part personal struggle. Ms. Er-
hart highlights ordinary characters and their mundane thoughts and conversations in a highly entertaining way. There is a theme of infidelity that runs throughout while the mystery often takes a back seat. The story wraps up in a very unexpected way. Botonist Elzada Clover has always wondered what happened to Lowell Dunhill. After noticing a bullet hole in the back of his skull, she knew he’d been murdered. When his body disappears, his death is ruled a suicide. Thirteen years later a skeleton is found in the hull of a colleague’s boat. Elzada decides to travel back to help her friend and to investigate the mystery. While Elzada goes on to question people, much of the story is focused on Mrs. Morris Merkle (Jane), a pretty young woman who’d married an older man. She’s visiting her Sister and brother in law for the summer while her husband is staying in St. Louis. While there, sans her husband, she begins an affair with Euell Wigglesworth, a man a few years her junior. She doesn’t seem uncomfortable with her infidelity and oddly her behavior is encouraged by her in-laws. The two stories intersect, though loosely through common acquaintances. Elzada pieces together what happened to Lowell Dunhill while Jane decides how to conduct herself. Reviewed by Vee The Romanov Prophecy By Steve Berry Random House 5/5 Stars - Top Pick The Romanov Prophecy is a fast-paced read that intertwines Russia’s past with its present. Mr. Berry takes a very interesting period of time and puts a great “what might Night Owl Reviews
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science
McGraw-Hill
Sinauer Associates
have been” spin on it. It is that spin that makes this, along with his other books, a highly recommendable read for anyone who likes thrillers that have an interesting twist to them with believable characters and a great storyline. Ekaterinburg, Russia: 1918. Tsar Nicholas II and his whole family are executed by the Bolsheviks. But are they really all dead? Or did someone survive? Moscow: Present Day. Communism has fallen and was succeeded by a series of governments that weren’t as strong as their people would have liked. Due to this, the Russian people have voted to restore the monarchy that their near ancestors had deposed. Miles Lord is an Atlanta lawyer who is fluent in both Russia’s language and it’s history - and is in the area when the Russians vote takes place. The tsar will be selected from a group of the last tsar’s distant relations and Miles is asked to do a background check on the favored candidate. It is then that life takes a more dangerous turn for Miles when he is nearly killed in a city plaza. What follows is a journey across several continents, mysterious conversations about - and a message from - Rasputin, and trying to find out what really happened the fateful night in Ekaterinburg. Will the answers be the ones that are sought? What will they mean for the future of Russia, the tsar, and of Miles himself? Reviewed by Lilyraines The Lost Symbol By Dan Brown Doubleday 3.75/5 Stars
Benjamin Cummings 18
For me, at least, The Lost Symbol did not have the same oomph as the previous books did. While I can’t precisely point my finger to what exactly was missing, there was a lacking element in the reading. Fans of Dan Brown won’t be disappointed, and it can be read as a standalone book, but I would recommend reading his previous books for the
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novice reader. After having read the other two Robert Langdon books, Angels and Demons and The Da Vinci Code, I was looking forward to The Lost Symbol. In many ways, it didn’t disappoint. The book definitely had the Dan Brown stamp on it - fast pace, symbols, codes, a race against time, Masons, a new science (noetics), well-known landmarks (in Washington, D.C. this time), and a villain with a surprising identity. In others, it did. Reviewed by Lilyraines Sizzle By Julie Garwood Random House 4.5/5 Stars - Top Pick Whether writing historical or contemporary fiction, Ms. Garwood is the best and, once again, she does not disappoint. I have read the other books featuring the Buchanans and enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to reading Sizzle and I enjoyed it as much as I did the others. This time, however, the Buchanan family had more of a background role than in the other books. The connection comes through Sidney Buchanan in that it is Lyra Prescott, her college roommate, who is in trouble and her bodyguard is Sam Kincaid, an FBI agent who saved Alec Buchanan’s life. I liked seeing their interactions and the storyline was as fast-paced as the previous books. I would have liked to see more of Sidney in the book, but that was understandable as it was Lyra’s book. Good read and highly recommended! Reviewed by Lilyraines
Tantalizing Tidbits
Stacia Kane Del Rey
by The Book Nerd
A Note From The Book Nerd Hey There Readers! Okay, I’ve fallen off the wagon already. The resolution wagon, that is. In fact, I can’t even remember half of the dang promises I made to myself and that’s pretty bad! How about you? Have you already ditched the diet, slipped a smoke or two, or spent more money than ever? If you have, you’re not alone, because an unbelievable 80% of resolutions are already broken within the first 30 days. Spending less money on books because my TBR pile is overflowing from the living room, into the
As to my New Year’s resolution - I promise to gain at least one pound by December 31, 2011. How’s that for reality? dining room and inching into the kitchen seemed like such a good idea at the time. That’s pretty bad, so I was determined to stop checking on Amazon or Doubleday for the latest book, and promised anyone who would listen that Barnes and Noble would see less of its
favorite customer. Needless to say, the booksellers snickered and waved, as I tried to sneak in the front door with oversized shades and a floppy black and purple hat, hoping that no one would recognize me. That may work in the movies. Uh...just so you know - that doesn’t really work in real life. A certified book junky, I simply can’t help myself. If there is a new eBook out that looks interesting, or the latest book from my favorite author has been released, I simply MUST have it. Wherever I go, at least two books come along, and friends have lost all hope of socializing me at parties or special events, simply going with the flow. What in the world am I reading you ask? David Baldacci, James Rollins, Melinda Barron, Matthew Reilly, Sierra Cartwright, Joey W. Hill, Lara Adrian, Christine Feehan...do you see my problem? The list goes on and on, and I’m well over 300 books! I guess it could be a lot worse - I could be addicted to Twinkies or something like that. My sanity may seriously be questioned if they were all piled up on my bookcase. As to my New Year’s resolution - I promise to gain at least one pound by December 31, 2011. How’s that for reality?
June 2010
June 22, 2010
Hugs, The Book Nerd
July 27, 2010 Night Owl Reviews
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uid is absorbed, stirring often. Pour in enough mushroom and or chicken stock to cover, about 3 cups, and cook, stirring often until the liquid is absorbed. Heat the olive oil in a separate medium skillet. Cut mushrooms to bite size pieces and saute over medium high heat to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Pour 3 cups stock into the rice, turn the flame to high, and stir in a large pinch of salt and the tomatoes. Stir until almost al dente. Stir in the mushrooms and the remaining 1 cup stock, as necesary. Remember, the risotto should be creamy, not runny. Remove from the flame and vigorously beat in the chilled butter and half the Parmesan cheese until completely dissolved. Stir in the parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. I found that it was a ton of stirring and whereas I might appreciate the workout when I want one -- it wasn’t exactly what I want to do after work on a weekday. The recipe took about an hour and then some from start to finish, with a good portion of that being stirring. Also, the rice took a lot more liquid than called for in the recipe until it was uniformly al dente. What was very frustrating was that I would have to taste large bites on intervals to see how it was going since although some of the rice was cooked all the way through, some of them still had crunchy centers and you couldn’t know until you took a reasonably large bite. This might just be the problem of the rice I used though, so I might try again with proper arborio and see if the same thing happens. In conclusion? Lovely, but not something I’d make on a weekday, and not really all that amazing enough that I want to be the one cooking it. I’d happily eat it if someone else decided to slave over the stove for me though.
stove | cooking | kitchen
Kyraninse lives on the East Coast and enjoys cooking and reading.
Blending | Quick | Eats 20
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The Story - Behind - The Story How the novel “Veil of Deception” was born
The origin of a novel and the history behind how it came to life can often be of interest to a reader. This is especially true when a story evolves from the imagination of two minds. Toss in the creative juices generated by the muse of both a man and woman, and one begins to wonder how the novel ever survived, right? Such is the case with the new release, VEIL OF DECEPTION by Michael Davis and Candace Morehouse. The novel is a romantic suspense that examines the premise, “Sometimes truth cuts deeper than a lie.” The story is the result of a collaborative effort between two established authors, one writing in the suspense genre, the other in romance. The shared goal of this joint endeavor was to provide realism in the portrayal of relationships and the role gender plays in the struggle between men and women. How did the project come about? Well, have you ever read a novel where something wasn’t right? Maybe a voice in the background whispered, “Is this realistic?” As a woman you might have asked, “would I react like that?” or “No man I know would do that?” If so, then we share an observation common to many stories in that the internal dialogue and character interactions are somewhat out of kilter with the behavior of one gender. But how can that be? Don’t all authors strive to create scenes and vignettes that draw the reader in through their realistic depiction of how characters behave? Of course they do. The problem is not a lack of desire to capture life; rather it is the very nature of communication between men and women. News alert – we think and act and communicate differently, not better or worse, just differently. Now I don’t wish to mislead. My stories have
By Michael Davis Davisstories.com
received a variety of top reviews and five star ratings, but in their praise, I was never offered certain key words that should be noted in any story with romance at its core. Oh, I would hear, “I couldn’t put the book down” or “I was moved to tears” or even “how refreshing to read romance from the male perspective”, and I’m not complaining, I felt great, encouraged to go back into my dungeon and again pick up the keyboard. Yet, I often wondered if my depiction of the female thought process was realistic. The reviews related to the diversity and strength of my heroines, but I never heard, “The author captured the female perspective perfectly.” I began to ponder in the late hours tucked away in my writer’s tomb, “Would a woman react in the manner I’m reflecting for this character?” My problem was, how the hell would I know. I’m a man, always have been, always will. I’ve tried over the past forty years of adult life to understand women, but I’ve only scratched the surface. Like many of my gender, we adore our mates, our lovers, our female friends, but we walk around in a daze confused and mumbling, “What just happened?”, or “Why did she react that way.” Then, about 18 months ago, I was offered a glimmer of hope. An author friend asked if I would read a passage from a novel she was scripting and share my views. I’ve never been one capable of
“I often wondered if my depiction of the female thought process was realistic.”
Continued on page 24
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Great Reads A Black Tie Affaire by Sherrill Bodine Fashion curator Athena Smith will do anything to get her perfectly manicured hands on the Clayworth family’s celebrated couture collection for her exhibit. So when she’s called in to make sure the gowns are the real deal, she’s ecstatic...until a dress she’s examining turns out to be loaded with toxins (talk about killer threads!) and Athena faints, only to wake up face-to-face with the One That Got Away, notorious Chicago bachelor Drew Clayworth. Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Sword of Avalon by Diana L Paxson Marion Zimmer Bradley’s legendary saga of Avalon’s extraordinary women continues with a tale of fiery visions, a lost king, and a forthcoming destiny... Epic in its sweep and peopled by the remarkable women who have always inhabited Avalon, Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Sword of Avalon expands the legendary saga that has enchanted millions of readers over the years and is sure to please Bradley’s loyal readership and anyone who loves wonderfully told stories of history, myth, and fantasy. Abendlied : A Novel of Gaston LeRoux’s The Phantom of the Opera by Jennifer Linforth Desiring normalcy is difficult enough with a price on his head, but when Erik is falsely accused of killing Philippe de Chagny, brother of his nemesis Raoul, he is launched toward madness. Plagued by his past as The Phantom of the Opera, Erik’s memories enslave his heart to Raoul’s wife Christine, whose shocking confession brings a ruthless bounty hunter into the fray and blackmail to the Chagny bloodline. Chalice of Roses by Jo Beverley, Mary Jo Putney, Karen Harbaugh, Barbara Samuel Romance and destiny intertwine in four all-new novellas inspired by grail quests-featuring two New York Times bestselling authors! 22
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Great Reads Liberating Atlantis by Harry Turtledove Frederick Radcliff is a descendant of the family that founded Atlantis’s first settlement, and his grandfather Victor led the army against England to win the nation’s independence. But he is also a black slave, unable to prove his lineage, and forced to labor on a cotton plantation in the southern region of the country.
tis...
Frederick feels the color of his skin shouldn’t keep him from having the same freedoms his ancestors fought and died for. So he becomes the leader of a revolutionary army of slaves determined to free all of his brethren across Atlan-
In the Courts of the Sun by Brian D’Amato A mind-bending, time-bending, zeitgeist-defining novel about the days leadingup to December 21, 2012--the day the Maya have predicted the world will end. Wicked Enchantment by Anya Bast First in a new series from the national bestselling author of Witch Fury. When the Summer Queen of the fae orders Aislinn Finvarra to act as a guide for a half-incubus who is known to possess dark magick and sexual power, she must protect not only her heart, but her very life. Ecstasy Unveiled (Demonica Series #4) by Larissa Ione DEMON ENSLAVED Lore is a Seminus half-breed demon who has been forced to act as his dark master’s assassin. Now to earn his freedom and save his sister’s life, he must complete one last kill. Powerful and ruthless, he’ll stop at nothing to carry out this deadly mission. AN ANGEL TEMPTED Idess is an earthbound angel with a wild side, sworn to protect the human Lore is targeting. She’s determined to thwart her wickedly handsome adversary by any means necessaryeven if that means risking her vow of eternal chastity. Night Owl Reviews
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Comeback 2.0: Up Close and Personal
After three years in retirement following his record-setting 7th Tour de France win — which he accomplished after successfully battling the testicular cancer that almost killed him — Lance Armstrong announced to the world on September 24, 2008 at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York City, that he would return to professional cycling to help promote a Global Cancer Campaign. Comeback 2.0: Up Close and Personal is Lance Armstrong’s first-person photo-journal of his 2009 comeback season with the goal to take the LIVESTRONG message around the world. Heavily illustrated with color photos and text, Lance will take readers on a thrilling ride through his dramatic comeback year. refusing a lady so I reluctantly agreed. Once I completed the chapter, I became concerned about offering my observations. The writing was excellent, the theme interesting, yet the way her male character was depicted, how he behaved, what he was thinking; it missed the boat. Then I had an epiphany. Just as I was struggling to create realistic female characters, she was suffering from the same complications, only from the other side of the road. Being a “find a solution” male, an idea floated into my head; what if a male and female author combined their respective talents? Wouldn’t the merging offer stories with true reflection of the male and female POV? I cautiously suggested my observation to Candace and was surprised to learn she too had pondered the same dilemma in writing stories with a romantic core. We agreed to collaborate on a new novel I had been toying with for a year. When she read the story premise and outline, she became absorbed in the idea and our experiment began. Was it successful? Early reviews of VEIL OF DECEPTION have praised the novels ability to draw the reader into the story and make them fall in love with the characters. Was the creative process easy? There were natural rough spots but after some thought to the difficulty of two charged minds working together in the arena of amore, we were able to evolve a process that fostered our creativity while recognizing our individual voices. Was it fun? Yes, it was. Each of us would wait anxiously to see how our partner would respond to a chapter we’d written, and then laugh till we cried. Yeah, it was a blast. So much so that we’re concluding a new joint 24
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endeavor entitled, WHISPERS OF INNOCENCE. We’ve also jointly observed how our appreciation of the opposite gender’s perspective has expanded and flowed into our individual projects. You can check out excerpts and reviews at our website. Here’s a quick blurb to wet your appetite: Something suspicious is happening at Spenser Lake. People are disappearing and their bodies never found. The fear and uncertainty affect the tranquil
Veil of Deception Sometimes truth cuts deeper than a lie. community, but especially Kurt Hawkins. The guilt that he was responsible for his wife’s loss precludes any normalcy in his life until he meets Danielle Gillette, a reclusive author with skeletons of her own. When the mystery to the disappearances is revealed, they discover “sometimes truth cuts deeper than a lie.” Michael Davis (http://www.Davisstories.com) Author of the year, 4/09
Debut Authors Charisma Knight
Vicki Hopkins
When my stories pull me in a certain direction, I’m forced to put everything on paper. I love the paranormal and all it has to offer, especially in the world of erotica. In my world my heroes and heroines consist of goddesses, dragons, ghosts, werewolves, elementals, warriors, gods, and vampires. Most often they are old or “cursed” souls who are reincarnated many times over until they fulfill their destinies or atone for past sins they care not to remember. I enjoy penning risky, carnal, and over the top erotica. Debut Release: Her Dark Desires Publisher: Sugar and Spice Press http://charismaknight.webs.com
The Price of Innocence is Vicki Hopkins’ debut historical fiction novel, but not her first published work. “Lessons from the Phantom of the Opera,” released in May 2009, has gained worldwide readership from fans around the world. It is a compilation of posts from her popular blog that examines the characters, symbols, and events in the story from Leroux to Webber. Vicki is the author of a variety of informative articles on the Internet and maintains four blogs. In addition, she hosts a weekly Internet radio talk show. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and is currently working on two other fiction novels. Debut Release: The Price of Innocence Publisher: Xlibris Corporation http://vickihopkins.com
The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi
Tao of Jeet Kune Do Bruce Lee
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga
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History Bits by Lilyraines Rome’s founding, in 753 B.C., is shrouded in mystery and combines legend, mythology, and fact. However it may have been founded, over the next 10 centuries or so Rome rose from a sparsely populated village to a powerful city-state to one of the greatest empires to have come about.
Throughout its history, Rome also saw scandals, alliances (kept and broken), various public games that modern people may shudder at, and different contributions that are still seen today. Rome’s contributions not only lie in the buildings and aqueducts (the Trajan aqueduct was the last one to have its source found – and this was broadcast the week of January 25, 2010) that are visited by tourists today. One of the most telling contributions may be the city’s sewers which are, in part, still used to this day. The contributions also lie in the formation and discipline of its army, its government (along with Greece’s) has influenced how later governments are formed, Latin, and the various religions that have (and continue to be so) found a home in the city – whether that was the city’s paganism, the soldier’s following of Mithraism, or, eventually, Christianity.
Books of Note: During its existence, Rome’s government fluctuated between Triumvirates (having three heads of government), republics, and different Caesars – all forms of government were, naturally, supported by the Senate. The city saw its power spread through its military which, in the beginning, was nothing more than a home guard made up of volunteers. The home guard was reformed from the volunteer force that was made up of land-owning peasants to non-property holding citizens in search of a career that would sign up for 16 to 20 years of service by Julius Caesar’s time. Aside from waging war and conquering new lands, the Roman army had what was probably one of the first corps of engineers. These early engineers were responsible for building the roads which allowed different legions to get from one part of the empire to another relatively quickly. This allowed them to suppress any rebellions that might have arisen in an empire that stretched from Britain in the north to parts of northern Africa in the south to the Middle East in the east. 26
Contemporary Sources: Tacitus, The Histories Deals with the events of 69 AD and approximately nine months of the following year. Although written approximately thirty years later, The Histories uses not only the written record of the time, but also primary sources that might still be living when he wrote the tome. Gaius Plinius Secundus (Pliny the Elder), Natural History
Anna Maria Liberati & Fabio Bourbon, Ancient Rome Looks at the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and how it has impacted history, architecture, politics, culture, and art. Text is highlighted by maps, aerial photos, tables, diagrams, and color drawings. Michael Grant, Cities of Vesuvius Illustrates the history of Pompeii and Herculaneum before the eruption, how the eruption affected the people of the day, and how today’s people can learn about the cities and the daily lives of those people. Black and white photographs of the portion of the cities that have been uncovered provided. Michael Grant, The Climax of Rome Overview of the time period in the latter part of the Roman Empire. Deals primarily with the time period from Marcus Aurelius accession in 161 AD to Constantine’s death in 337 AD. Black and white photographs of related material provided.
Various subjects ranging from astronomy to the physical world and how they were understood during the first century AD. The Vesuvius eruption of 79 AD, which Pliny witnessed and the cause of his death, also figures in the multivolume Natural History.
Phillippe Pergola, Christian Rome
Modern Sources:
Finding tidbits to share!
Lesley & Roy Adkins, An Introduction to the Romans
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An overview of the Romans and their empire. Takes a look into the everyday lives, towns, military and how all of this intertwined to make Rome what it was – and how it still remains. Photographs and various illustrations provided throughout the text.
A tour of the catacombs, sanctuaries, and basilicas of the early Christian Romans. Provides their histories, photographs of how they look now, and overlays of how they would have looked when they were first built.
Lilyraines
Debut Authors Nan D Arnold
Diana Flori
A native Texan, Nan worked for a life insurance agency and it was here she garnered her first commercial writing success. She created an office procedures manual which the home office issued to all its agencies. For that Nan got a bonus and the writing bug.
romantic.
I was born in La Habana, Cuba many years ago (exact date not necessary to know). Maybe because I was born on a Caribbean island explains my love of the sea and swaying palm trees. Who knows? Anyway, it sounds
Nan joined Romance Writers Of America and started writing novel-length fiction. Her work finaled in several RWA chapter-sponsored contests as well as back to back finals in The PACIFIC NORTHWEST WRITERS ASSOCIATION’S annual literary competition, adult genre and romance genre respectively.
My first book THE THORN AT HIS SIDE is a historical romance set in Key West and the Florida mainland in 1880 and will be published by Hearts on Fire Press. I have always liked writing, and on a dare my friend and I thought it would be fun to write one. Of course, it took me ten years to get around to it.
Debut Release:
Debut Release:
Hitting The High Notes Publisher: Champagne Books http://nandarnold.com
The Thorn At His Side Publisher: Hearts On Fire http://www.dianaflori.com
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Brand New in the Action-Packed Apotheosis Epic Adam, an AI creation of an alien race, prepares to launch a conquest that has been centuries in the making, and if he succeeds he will rule over all humankind-over all sentient life-forms-as a God. “Swann is a bright and talented author that I would be honored to read again. I’ll look forward to any book by this author.” - Night Owl Reviews
Heretics by S. Andrew Swann