Sand's 2007 Reads

Book #39 - Swept Away by Toni Blake

2007-11-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

ISBN:

Format: Trade Paperback, 265 pages

Pub. Date: September 2006

Genre: Romance

Series: not part of a series
Bought at the Radcliff Bookstore I believe when I met the author and had it signed!!!

From the Publisher

Five days before her wedding to a man she admires but doesn't love, Katrina Spencer escapes to a private island. There, she can let the sun warm her body as she contemplates a future without the passion she craves. Then she lazily opens her eyes, only to see Brock Denton . . . muscular, half-naked, the one who got away—the one who makes her body tingle with arousal.

How Brock arrived is a mystery, but it's clear he's in danger. Kat faces danger, too, in the arms of a man who is determined to free her from her every inhibition with his hands, his mouth, and more!

Kat has five steamy days and five sultry nights to make up her mind—return home to a man she doesn't love, or satisfy her wildest passions with Brock and let herself be . . . swept away.

My Opinion of the Book

I can't believe I missed posting this book on here!!! I just realized it wasn't on here when blogging about Voyeur by Toni's alter-ego, Lacey Alexander. I absolutely loved Swept Away by this author as well! The plot of the book was great and I thoroughly enjoyed how the story progressed as well as ended. The "naughty scenes" in this book were extremely good for a non-erotica book and seemed very believable. I think Toni/Lacey definitely knows the way to write steamy scenes!!!! I highly recommend books by "both" authors!!!

Book #38 - Voyeur by Lacey Alexander

2007-11-15T08:59:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 9780451221193

Format: Trade Paperback, 265 pages

Pub. Date: May 1, 2007

Genre: Erotica

Series: not part of a series (sadly!!!)
Bought at the Radcliff Bookstore I believe when I met the author and had it signed!!!

From the Publisher

Suffering from writer's block and with no lover to speak of, novelist Laura Watkins is in a funk. She needs a getaway and a release. Fast. Fortunately, she finds both in the retreat of a friend's isolated Colorado home. It's hers and hers alone for as long as she needs it. Then she comes upon the webcam, and her curiosity is aroused. So is her secret fantasy-to be watched by a stranger.

His screen name is Flyboy. He likes what he sees. He wants to open up for her, too. Now, they're only one click away from exploring an after-hours game of exhibitionist and voyeur where anything goes. But now it's time to take it one step further-by meeting in the flesh. This time, no rules, no limits, and absolutely nothing to come between them.

My Opinion of the Book

I believe that this is my new favorite book for 2007!!! I couldn't put it down for long at all! I typically read rather slow and most books will put me to sleep, even if I'm enjoying them, but I never fell asleep reading this book! Lacey Alexander filled this book to the brim with various sexual exploitations and made the characters realistic so they were all believable. The only thing negative I found about this book is that now I'm hoping there is a Braden or Sloane out there for myself! I highly recommend this book to those that enjoy VERY sexy erotica!!! And for those that like things a bit tamer... check out Toni Blake's books as that is Lacey's pen name and those books are a little less steamy and more romance-y! ;)

Book #37 - An Ice Cold Grave by Charlaine Harris

2007-11-12T15:29:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 9780425217290

Format: Hardback, 280 pages

Pub. Date: September 25, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Mystery

Series: #3 in the Harper Connelly series
Laura (CTGMOM) checked out from her library for me to borrow

From the Publisher

Hired to find a boy gene missing in Doraville, North Carolina, Harper Connelly and her brother Tolliver head there-only to discover that the boy was only one of several who had disappeared over the previous five years. All of them teenagers. All unlikely runaways.

All calling for Harper.

Harper soon finds them-eight victims, buried in the half-frozen ground, all come to an unspeakable end. Afterwards, what she most wants to do is collect her fee and get out of town ahead of the media storm that's soon to descend. But when she's attacked and prevented from leaving, she reluctantly becomes a part of the investigation as she learns more than she cares to about the dark mysteries and long-hidden secrets of Doraville-knowledge that makes her the next person likely to rest in an ice-cold grave.

My Opinion of the Book

I am still loving this series!!! Harris keeps her books suspenseful and makes the reader wonder all through the book. I think this is my favorite book yet in this series and I can't wait until the next one is released (whenever that may be!!!). The character progression in this book made me quite happy and I can't wait to see what will come next. After this book, though, I don't know how much more Harper can take! The fact that she had to take on a case with multiple deaths was quite the challenge for her. She's a strong gal though so I'm sure she'll keep at what she does best!

Book #36 - Sexy Beast by Kate Douglas, Noelle Mack, and Vivi Anna

2007-11-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0758214855

Format: Trade Paperback, 256 pages

Pub. Date: March 1, 2006

Genre: Paranormal Erotica

Series: #2 in the Wolf Tales series (1 of the 3 stories)
Purchased for $12.95 from Borders or Barnes & Noble most likely

From the Publisher

Some men are more than meets the eye -- much, much more. And when they unleash a woman’s wildest desires -- her deepest, animal hunge -- the results are primal, magical, and undeniably hot...

Chanku Rising Kate Douglas

Xandi, Keisha, Stefan and Anton share a powerful secret: they are shapeshifters whose primal power and heightened senses bring an added ecstasy to their lovemaking that is beyond all words. Now, one of their own is threatened by a danger from the outside, from one determined to expose their sexy secrets, and the friends will go to any lengths to save her and their clan...

Tiger, Tiger Noelle Mack

In the demon-haunted Himalayas, where illusion and reality are often one and the same, strange things happen. For a hard-bodied, world-class climber -- a man of unearthly sensuality -- that border will be challenged in the most erotic of encounters. In the guise of a blue-eyed snow tiger, he is able to lure one intrepid woman into his mountain lair and show her that the line between man and beast is blissfully slim indeed...

Night Of The Jaguar Vivi Anna

When Myra Galas finally takes her dream trip to the Amazon, she never imagines it will end in tragedy. Wounded and alone, Myra’s mind is stalked by a dark, sexy male -- sometimes man, sometimes jaguar -- she inexplicably craves with every inch of her body. When she wakes to find herself in his powerful arms, he stirs something deep inside her—an ancient, hedonistic desire clawing to be set free...

Open yourself to pleasure and indulge the beast within...

My Opinion of the Book

After having read Douglas' first Wolf Tales book I couldn't resist picking up Sexy Beast since it continued the story about Xandi, Keisha, Stefan, and Anton from WT 1. I was not disappointed in what I found in this book as I liked how Douglas concluded the current WT storyline. I am glad to hear that these characters will reappear in future WT books though. As for the Mack and Anna stories... I will DEFINITELY be looking to read more by these two authors. TIGER, TIGER by Mack makes me look at my tiger collection in a whole 'nother way. I keep hoping one of them will turn out to be a bit like Jack. Mmmm... And Miss Anna's story was also extremely sensual. I can't wait to read more by these authors and I especially am looking forward to the next installment of Wolf Tales.

Book #35 - Wolf Tales by Kate Douglas

2007-10-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0758213867

Format: Trade Paperback, 257 pages

Pub. Date: January 1, 2006

Genre: Paranormal Erotica

Series: #1 in the Wolf Tales series
Purchased for $12.95 from Borders most likely

From the Publisher

When Alexandria's car goes off the road in a terrible blizzard, she has no idea night will bring a powerful rescuer and the start of an ecstatic sexual awakening. The moment Xandi wakes in Stefan's muscular arms, feels the heat of his body pressing against hers, she feels no fear. Instead, she allows herself to be taken by one who is more than a man, whose primal n ature is never far from him. As their connection grows, and as Xandi gradually loses her sensual inhibitions, experiencing pleasures she never dreamed possible, she is drawn deeper into Stefan's mysterious world, meeting the alluring beauty, Keisha, as well as the dominant and sometimes ruthlessly commanding Anton, who can have any man or woman he wants... in any way he wishes...

My Opinion of the Book

WOW! I don't know where to begin in describing this book. I THOROUGHLY enjoyed the read! I recommend this book highly to anyone that loves their erotica spicy and in all varieties. I do not recommend this book to those that are offended by anything beyond the normal when it comes to sex. This book has a little of everything... girl/wolf, boy/wolf, boy/boy, girl/boy/boy, girl/girl, girl/wolf, etc... you get the idea! At any rate, Kate Douglas does a fabulous job describing the detailed sexual events, yet also holds the plot of the story throughout the book. With all the steaminess that went into this book I can't imagine what will come in the latter books considering I know there are at least 4 more and also some short stories that go with this story! *blink* I wonder if I've finally found an author that will make me blush?!??!!?!? Nah! Who am I kidding? LOL!!! Anyway, as I said, this was an awesome book and I do recommend to those that are open-minded! ;)

Book #34 - Vampirates: Demons of the Ocean

2007-10-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 1428110836

Format: Audiobook, 6 CDs, 7.25 hrs

Pub. Date: June 6, 2005

Genre: Teen Fantasy

Series: #1 in the Vampirates series

Borrowed from New Albany library, though the actual book was here on Mt. TBR purchased from BookCloseouts.com

From the Publisher

What could be worse than a vampirate? Half vampire, half pirate - shiver me timbers, how terrible they must be! Thankfully, most people will never have the misfortune of meeting a vampirate.

It's the year 2505 and the world's oceans have risen dramatically. In this new age, the vile practie of piracy is gaining ground, threatening seafarers of all types. During a mighty storm, twins Connor and Grace are separated when their boat is smashed. Each is rescued by a different ship. Connor is captured by a notorious band of pirates and forced to become one of them. Facing a different fate, Grace winds up on a ship of dark mysteries, imprisoned by its captain.

My Opinion of the Book

This was definitely not my favorite teen read, but still an enjoyable story. I'm actually looking forward to book 2 in order to see what happens next in the story. I do think it could have been a bit better written though and am hoping the author improves in the future books.

Book #33 - Graverobbers Wanted (No Experience Necessary) by Jeff Strand

2007-10-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 1594263485

Format: Trade Paperback, 188 pp

Pub. Date: March 2005

Genre: Comic Horror

Series: #1 in the Andrew Mayhem series

Bought at Amazon.com for $12

From the Publisher

When you're desperate for money, searching for a little adventure, and aren't the most responsible person in the world, you can end up doing some outrageous things. Which is how Andrew Mayhem, an extremely married father of two, ends up accepting $20,000 to find a key...a key buried with a body in a shallow grave.

But what he finds in the grave isn't quite what he expected, and what begins as a simple evening of morally questionable manual labor turns into a really good way to die. Andrew finds himself investigating a murder while forced into a bizarre game of wits and courage played by an unseen killer with a twisted sense of humor. It's a game that will involve him with a group of filmmakers known as Ghoulish Delights, who are hiding a secret that will test every last bit of Andrew's nerve to discover.

And it's impossible to find a babysitter.

My Opinion of the Book

This is my second time reading this book. I read it several years ago as part of a bookring. My stomach didn't churn as much this time around, but it's still extremely sick & twisted!!! Jeff Strand is my all-time favorite author, though it frightens me that he can come up with ideas like he puts in his stories. I highly recommend this series to all fans of horror and comedy as Strand is the king of mixing these two genres! I plan to re-read books 2 & 3 soon and then I'll be awaiting the release of the 4th installment in the Andrew Mayhem series. I can't wait!!!

Book #32 - Your Coffin or Mine? by Kimberly Raye

2007-10-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 9780345492180

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 306 pp

Pub. Date: September 25, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: #3 in Dead End Dating series

Borrowed from Laura (CTGMOM)

From the Publisher

For Lil Marchette, the owner of Manhattan's premier dating service for vampires (and a dazzling denizen of the dark herself), death is all in a night's work. Unfortunately, it's going to take more than matching up vamps to pay the bills and fund Lil's cosmetics addiction. Dare she add actual humans to the mix? Eager to diversify, she signs up for a popular dating show, Manhattan's Most Wanted (MMW), to pitch her expertise to the perfect target audience - eligible women looking for eligible men.

Of course Lil is trying to forget the one man she'd love to sink her own teeth into: Ty Bonner, the ultraseductive vamp who broker her heart after she gave him the hottest night of his afterlife. Problem is, she and Ty have an intense mental connection and she's sensing he's in deep trouble. Even worse, she soon finds herself heading for MMW's grand finale (cameras are so not a vamp's best friend). The race is on as Lil struggles to save Ty (and herself) before all hell breaks loose.

My Opinion of the Book

Still loving this series... Lil is great fun! I can't wait to see what adventures she gets into next and to find out if anything more becomes of Ty as he's so vampelicious. ;) This series is getting to be even more fun than MaryJanice Davidson's Undead series... though I love it as well. There are just too many great vampire books out nowadays... I need more time to read!!!

Book #31 - Elrod McBugle on the Loose by Jeff Strand

2007-09-23T18:26:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 9780759943254

Format: Trade Paperback, 133 pp

Pub. Date: March 1, 2007

Genre: Teen Comedy

Not part of a series

Bought straight from Jeff Strand for $7.77 and autographed!!!

From the Publisher

A comedy for kids...and adults who were warped as kids!

The students at Greenwater Junior High have said they'll never forget this year, and Elrod McBugle is the reason. He's not a bad person. He doesn't TRY to get in trouble, cause mayhem, and occasionally blow things up...it just happens. And it's going to happen again and again!

Share Elrod's hilarious adventures as he faces the wrath of the Slurpy Gulp Beverage Company, tries to become a millionaire selling homemade bubble gum, survives a wild squirrel attack, tries to find out if his math teacher is an axe murderer, and much, much more!

Watch out, everyone...Elrod McBugle is on the loose!

My Opinion of the Book

Jeff's done it again! This one isn't quite as slap-sticky (is that a word?) and corny as HOW TO RESCUE A DEAD PRINCESS, but it's full of laughs and stupid jokes... what else would you expect from the infamous Jeff Strand though? His books entertain me to no end and are some of the few books that I can read no matter my mood. I tend to save his books for when I'm upset about stuff because it guarantees me a mood lift. I highly recommend his books to anyone looking for a good laugh... or complete gross out! (depending on which book(s) you pick)

Book #30 - Shakespeare's Christmas

2007-09-23T18:07:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0440234999

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 242 pp

Pub. Date: March 1, 2005 (reprint)

Genre: Mystery

#3 in the Lily Bard Series

Bookring started by Amberkatze... sent to me by Maurean... next to innae!

From the Publisher

Lily Bard is going home for the holidays. More comfortable in baggy sweats than bridesmaid's frills, Lily isn't thrilled about attending her estranged sister's wedding. She has moved to Shakespeare, Arkansas, to start a new life, cleaning houses for a living, trying to forget the violence that once nearly destroyed her. Now she's heading back to home and hearth - just in time for murder.

The town's doctor and nurse have been bludgeoned to death at the office. And Lily's detective boyfriend suddenly shows up at her parents' door. Jack Leeds is investigating an eight-year-old kidnapping and the trail leads straight to Lily's hometown. It just might have something to do with the murders... and her sister's widowed fiance. With only three days before the wedding, Lily must work fast to clean up the messy case before her sister commits... marriage!

My Opinion of the Book

Still loving this series and unfortunately don't know where I have put books 4 & 5... ack!!! I hope they show up soon! Lily is a great character and I'm really loving her boyfriend, Jack, as well. I hope that Harris continues on with this series beyond book 5 in addition to her other series.

Book #29 - Shakespeare's Champion by Charlaine Harris

2007-09-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0425213102

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 206 pp

Pub. Date: December 5, 2006 (reprint)

Genre: Mystery

#2 in the Lily Bard Series

Bookring started by Amberkatze... sent to me by Maurean... next to innae!

From the Publisher

When Lily stumbles upon the well-built corpse of a local body builder-his neck broken by a barbell-the town's underlying racial tension begins to boil over. The white victim was somehow connected to two unsolved murders of black residents of Shakespeare-and a dogged policeman is determined to stop the killing. But it is Lily herself who may have to decide whether to stay and fight for justice, or run away one more time.

My Opinion of the Book

Yet another great Harris book! This book ended up more interested than I had assumed it would from the prologue as it ended up being based around a much bigger problem then just one murder. Again, Harris continues with a lot of character advancement (though I've also come to terms with the fact that Lily is quite the little nympho... LOL!!!) I do like the "new guy" though. I think he's much better than Marshall and Claude. I can't wait to find out what becomes of him come book 3. Shakespeare's Christmas, which I will be starting VERY soon!

Book #28 - Shakespeare's Landlord by Charlaine Harris

2007-09-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0440224187

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 245 pp

Pub. Date: July 7, 1997

Genre: Mystery

#1 in the Lily Bard Series

Bought at New Albany Library booksale for 50 cents

From the Publisher

To Lily Bard, the sleepy town of Shakespeare, Arkansas was the perfect place to hide from the violence that nearly destroyed her life years before. Today Lily is strong, confident in the martial arts she studies, her looks disguised by her closely cropped hair and baggy clothes. Working as a housecleaner, Lily comes and goes without anyone noticing - until she witnesses a murder.

What Lily Bard saw on that dark night has stripped away her anonymity and earned her the unwanted attention of a homicide detective and a suspicious community. And with her intense, married karate instructor showing a passionate interest of his own, Lily's plan of a private, well-ordered life is coming unhinged. The killer of an unlamented landlord is lurking close by. And while Lily knows the inside dirt on her neighbor's dust, drawers, and private lives, she must admit to a secret of her own: that in the shadow of a brutal murder, she is coming alive again...

My Opinion of the Book

Harris is one of my favorite authors. Her Sookie Stackhouse series is her best series, (though I'm also partial to vampires so that might make me a bit biased *grin*) but I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the Lily Bard series. There were many twists & turns in the book that kept me guessing on who the killer was and I never did figure it out. I also love the way Harris does her character development throughout the books. Poor Lily has been through so much, even before coming to Shakespeare, but yet she still manages to get in the midst of all the trouble. I admire her... she is one strong gal! Looking forward to learning more about Miss Lily! :)

Book #27 - The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly

2007-08-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0743298853

Format: Hardback, 339 pp

Pub. Date: November 7, 2006

Genre: Fantasy

Not part of a series

Borrowed from New Albany Library

From the Publisher

High in his attic bedroom, twelve-year-old David mourns the death of his mother. He is angry and alone, with only the books on his shelf for company. But those books have begun to whisper to him in the darkness, and as he takes refuge in his imagination, he finds that reality and fantasy have begun to meld. While his family falls apart around him, David is violently propelled into a land that is a strange reflection of his own world, populated by heroes and monsters, and ruled over by a faded king who keeps his secrets in a mysterious book... The Book of Lost Things.

An imaginative tribute to the journey we must all make through the loss of innocence into adulthood, John Connolly's latest novel is a book for every adult who can recall the moment when childhood began to fade, and for every adult about to face that moment. The Book of Lost Things is a story of hope for all who have lost, and for all who have yet to lose. It is an exhilarating tale that reminds us of the enduring power of stories in our lives.

My Opinion of the Book

I had been wanting to try this author out for a while now and am so glad that I did. I really enjoyed this particular book due to all the fairy tale twists Connolly included. He re-wrote some of the old fairy tales and based the whole story around some others. I've always loved reading different takes on fairy tales so that aspect was really cool! The character development with the main character was absolutely wonderful. I loved how David "grew up" throughout the story and learned more about what life is about and his part in it.

I will definitely be tracking down more of Connolly's works... I'm especially interested in his book, Nocturnes, since it has a paranormal theme to it.

Book #26 - Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl by Barry Lyga

2007-08-19T16:09:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0618723927

Format: Hardback, 311 pp

Pub. Date: October 2, 2006

Genre: Teen Fiction

Not part of a series

Borrowed from New Albany Library

From the Publisher

Fanboy has never had it good, but lately his sophomore year is turning
out to be its own special hell. The bullies have made him their
favorite target, his best (and only) friend seems headed for the dark
side (sports and popularity), and his pregnant mother and the step-fascist are eagerly awaiting the birth of the alien life form known as Fanboy's new little brother or sister.

Fanboy, though, has a secret: a graphic novel he's been working
on without telling anyone, a graphic novel that he is convinced will
lead to publication, fame, and—most important of all—a way out of
the crappy little town he lives in and all the
people that make it hell for him.

When Fanboy meets Kyra, a.k.a. Goth Girl, he finds an outrageous,
cynical girl who shares his love of comics as well as his hatred for
jocks and bullies. Fanboy can't resist someone who actually seems
to understand him, and soon he finds himself willing to heed her
advice—to ignore or crush anyone who stands in his way.

My Opinion of the Book

I heard good things about this book so checked it out from my local library. I did really enjoy the book and could tell the author was very familiar with the comic industry. The only thing I didn't care for about the book was how abrupt the ending felt. It would be nice to see him come out with a follow-up book that talked about what happened after this book, but I don't think that is in the works. I'll have to keep my eyes open just in case.

If you want to learn a little more about this book (and hear the intro), you should go to this link and watch the video about it on YouTube:

Fanboy and Goth Girl Video

Book #25 - Don't Talk Back To Your Vampire by Michele Bardsley

2007-08-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0451221702

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 352 pp

Pub. Date: July 3, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: #2 in the Broken Heart series

Borrowed from Laura (CTGMOM)

From the Publisher

Being a mother is never easy-especially when you're undead.

Eva LeRoy, Broken Heart, Oklahoma's librarian, got "vampified" when everyone else did: during a rogue vampire's feeding frenzy. But books still make her undead heart beat-and, strangely enough, so does Lorcan the Loner, the vampire who killed her...

My Opinion of the Book

I was thoroughly looking forward to this sequel, but wasn't as excited about it once I started into it. It was a good book and I got more into it towards the end, but overall I didn't like it nearly as well as "I'm The Vampire, That's Why". I am sure I will continue on with the series though to see what happens with the other mothers in the books. :) I think I also would've enjoyed this book better had it not been one I started right before HP7 came out and I had to put it down and pick it back up again after reading it. *shrugs*

Book #24 - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

2007-08-19T15:36:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0545010225

Format: Hardback, 784 pp

Pub. Date: July 21, 2007

Genre: Teen Fantasy

Series: #7 in the Harry Potter series

Bought on Amazon.com for $17.99 (had on pre-order since Feb. 1, 2007)

From the Publisher

Harry has been burdened with a dark, dangerous and seemingly impossible task: that of locating and destroying Voldemort's remaining Horcruxes. Never has Harry felt so alone, or faced a future so full of shadows. But Harry must somehow find within himself the strength to complete the task he has been given. He must leave the warmth, safety and companionship of The Burrow and follow without fear or hesitation the inexorable path laid out for him.

In this final, seventh installment of the Harry Potter series, J.K. Rowling unveils in spectactular fashion the answers to the many questions that have been so eagerly awaited. The spellbinding, richly woven narrative, which plunges, twists and turns at a breathtaking pace, confirms the author as a mistress of storytelling, whose books will be read, reread and read again.

My Opinion of the Book

No Spoilers!!!

This book has probably become my fave of the Harry Potter series. I did have a few things I didn't enjoy about this book, but overall I loved it. The parts I didn't enjoy would be major spoilers for those who have yet to read the book, so I won't mention them here, but feel free to message me if you're curious. I thought Rowling did a great job in wrapping things up, although the epilogue left a lot to be desired. I did shed tears twice within the book... once during an entire chapter when we discovered everything about Snape. While waiting for this book, that was the main thing I was waiting to hear about. I had my ideas on him, but didn't know the full story behind him. The other time I cried was when one of my favorite characters was killed, but I won't say who to avoid spoilers as well. I will miss the anticipation of more books to come, but I look forward to whatever new series Rowling decides to come out with next.

Book #23 - Fanged & Fabulous by Michelle Rowen

2007-07-04T11:23:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0446618624

Format: MassMarket Paperback, 331 pp

Pub. Date: July 1, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: #2 in the Sarah Dearly series

Borrowed from Laura (CTGMOM)

From the Publisher

My name is Sarah Dearly, and I've got major problems. Last month, I was turned into a vampire by the world's worst blind date. Then I may have, totally by accident, started a war between the mostly peaceful bloodsuckers and a bunch of sociopathic vamp hunters who have nicknamed me the Slayer of Slayers. Now I'm being used as bait to draw out the hunters' bad-ass leader, while my gorgeous 600-year-old boyfriend Thierry seems to be blowing me off, and my sizzle-hot, fanged friend Quinn is trying to turn my self-defense lessons into make-out sessions. So you know what? I'm done. I've had it. There comes a time when a vamp has to just suck it up and go after what she wants. And as soon as I figure out what that is, that's exactly what I'll do...

My Opinion of the Book

I had forgotten how much I enjoyed Bitten & Smitten, but reading F&F brought me back into Sarah's world. The book had lots of laugh out loud moments and lots of twists & turns to keep me guessing. I enjoyed the Buffy & Angel references made within the book (especially the Angel one... LOL!) although I could've done without the Monty Python and reality TV comments. (Yeech!)

I'm not sure if I'm happy about the way things ended with Sarah, Quinn, and Thierry in this book, but I guess I'll just have to see how things go in Lady & the Vamp when it comes out next year. *sigh* I sure hate waiting for all the sequels to the series I enjoy, but at least that gives me time to read other books. :)

Book #22 - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

2007-06-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 059035342x

Format: Trade Paperback, 309 pp

Pub. Date: December 16, 2002

Genre: Teen Fantasy

Series: #1 in the Harry Potter series

Bought used at a library sale I believe... probably for $1

From the Publisher

Harry Potter has never played a sport while flying on a broomstick. He's never worn a cloak of invisibility, befriended a giant, or helped hatch a dragon. All Harry knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years. But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to a wonderful place he never dreamed existed. There he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic around every corner, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him...if Harry can survive the encounter.

My Opinion of the Book

I typically don't re-read books, but with the final book of this series coming out next month I thought I'd give the series a try again. I am sure that there are many things that I missed during my first hurried reading and I am trying to catch those bits now. I actually really enjoyed reading this book again... and after having seen the movies I was able to picture faces and hear the voices of the characters as I read along, which made it all the more interesting.

Book #21 - Sudden Pleasures by Bertrice Small

2007-06-19T15:06:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 9780451221315

Format: Trade Paperback, 280pp

Pub. Date: June 5, 2007

Genre: Contemporary Erotica

Series: #3 in Pleasures series

Bought on Amazon for $11.20

From the Publisher

Ashley Kimbrough has everything a woman could want. Not only is she wealthy and successful, she has a more than satisfying sex life in The Channel, a secret network that allows women to live out their wildest fantasies. But if she doesn't find herself a husband she could be in danger of losing it all.

Then multi-millionaire Ryan Mulcahy enters Ashley's life. With that Celtic warrior's body and drop-dead gorgeous face, he makes her fantasies run wild. Although their marriage is one of convenience, Ashley is starting to wonder whether she can use everything she learned from The Channel on her unsuspecting husband.

My Opinion of the Book

I was so excited when this book finally came out and loved every minute of it! I think this book is even hotter/kinkier than the 2 previous books in the series. I can't wait to see what Small has in store for us in book 4 (Dangerous Pleasures due out Aug. '08). I do always wonder more about the couples from the previous books since we only get a glimpse at their current lives in the sequels. Maybe down the road we'll get some kind of reunion or update of sorts. :)

Book #20 - one of those hideous books where the mother dies by Sonya Sones

2007-06-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0689858205

Format: Hardback, 268pp

Pub. Date: April 27, 2004

Genre: Teen Fiction

Not part of a series

Checked out from library mobile

From the Publisher

My name is Ruby

This book is about me.

It tells the deeply hideous story of what happens when my mother dies and I'm dragged three thousand miles away from my gorgeous boyfriend, Ray, to live in L.A. with my father, who I've never even met because he's such a scumbag that he divorced my mom before I was born.

The only way I've ever even seen him is in the movies, since he's this mega-famous actor who's been way too busy trying to win Oscars to even visit me once in fifteen years.

Everyone loves my father.

Everyone but me.

My Opinion of the Book

I believe this is the 3rd book I've read by Sones and I really enjoy her writing style as well as her stories. I know lots of readers don't enjoy the prose format and honestly, I didn't think I would either, but it really doesn't feel like it's written in poetry.

Of the three Sones books I've read, I believe this story was my favorite. I loved the transitions that Ruby made in dealing with her mother's death and all the changes in her life. Some of it was predictable, but some of it still surprised me. The whole dream sequence before the earthquake was very interesting and I also liked how Ruby continued emailing her dead mother throughout the book in coping with her emotions a bit more.

Looking forward to finding other books by this author.

Book #19 - Stray by Rachel Vincent

2007-06-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0778324214

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 618pp

Pub. Date: June 1, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Fantasy

Series: #1 in the Werecat series

Bought at Borders for $6.99

From the Publisher

Vincent's debut, an urban werecat fantasy, is a good story that suffers from about 200 pages of bloat. Faythe Sanders is a Texas grad student with a secret: she's a shape-shifting werecat. After she's attacked by a Stray—a werecat without ties to any pride—Faythe's father, the Pride Alpha, orders her to return to the family compound. As it turns out, two other werecat tabbies have gone missing, indicating an organized effort by the formerly go-it-alone Strays. The author's world building is intriguing but overly narrow, reducing the range of jungle feline behavior to a keen territorial instinct. Secondary characters abound, including Faythe's intended, formerly human werecat Marc; five years earlier, she escaped the pride on what was supposed to be the eve of their wedding. Unfortunately, they both have frustrating character tics that are only exacerbated by the novel's length: Faythe is more often too-stubborn-to-live than kick-ass, and all the tears Marc wells up over Faythe don't forgive his insufferable jealousy. A polished tale may hide within this one, but Vincent needs to rein herself in a bit if she wants to build a readership.

My Opinion of the Book

What a fabulous first book from a new author. This book was fresh and different from other paranormal books I've read. The story was action-packed from start to finish with enough laughs mixed in to keep the story light. I loved every minute of it. The only disappointments I had were 1) Faythe didn't end up with the guy of my choice at the end of this book (but hey... that means I can maybe have him, right? *grin*) and 2) that I have to wait until April '08 in order to get the next book in the series, Rogue.

Definitely pick up this book if you are into the paranormal and want something new and fresh!

Book #18 - Undead and Uneasy by MaryJanice Davidson

2007-06-08T22:09:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 9780425213766

Format: Hardback, 272pp

Pub. Date: June 5, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: #6 in the Undead series

Bought at Amazon for $15.09

From the Publisher

You are cordially invited to the wedding of Elizabeth Anne Taylor and Eric Sinclair

607 Summit Ave
Midnight
July 4, 2007

RSVP by June 25, and don't be like one of those jerks who doesn't RSVP and then shows up with three people. Seriously.

In the days leading up the The Big Day, Vampire Queen Betsy Taylor seems to have a full house - and the wedding guests have yet to arrive. Along with her human buddies, there's a ghost, a werewolf, and a Fiend crashing at her place. And though her fiance, Vampire King Eric Sinclair, conveniently disappears when the conversation turns to seating charts and flower arrangements, he does manage to make his oh-so-sexy presence known at other moments.

Betsy knows the next few weeks won't be smooth sailing - but she never expects just what's in store for her. Cold feet are no surprise, especially with an undead groom. But when Sinclair truly goes missing - and not just to avoid wedding preparations - along with most of her friends and loved ones, Betsy is frantic. Alone and afraid for the fate of everyone she loves, Betsy can't trust anyone as she trieds to find them and whoever is behind all the disappearances. And what happens next will shake the foundation of the vampire world forever in the bestselling series that "breath(es) new life into conventional vampire lore."

My Opinion of the Book

Wow... Wow... Wow!!! This was probably the best Betsy book yet!!! I loved every bit of it!

I know there are going to be at least 3 more books for sure and probably more after that so I'm really hoping to find out the answers to a few questions I have still. I met MJD tonight at Borders and she's said that she wants to continue the story on even after book 9 so that's very exciting news as well! I'm sure there will be plenty of time for me to sort out all of my questions in future books. :) I'm not going to put any spoilers here, but the book was just awesome!!! I know they're short and only seem to leave you with a taste, but I think this one did a lot in a short amount of pages! (well, considering the font size... LOL!!!)

On a side not, MJD is just as funny in person as she is in her books. She's also super sweet and a great talker. I hope she comes back to Louisville again as I'd love to listen to her talk once more. Now if she only pops into the bookobsessed.com forum as I mentioned to her when she was signing my books. *grin*

Book #17 - Startled By His Furry Shorts by Louise Rennison

2007-05-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 9780060853860

Format: Trade Paperback, 278pp

Pub. Date: April 24, 2007

Genre: Teen

Series: #7 in Confessions of Georgia Nicholson series

Bought at Borders for $7.99

From the Publisher

Georgia is in quite a predicament. Dave the Laugh has declared his love for her (at least she thinks he was talking about her), leaving her in a state of confusiosity. And then when she finally decides to give Masimo an ultimatum -- to be her one and only -- he tells her he needs to think about it.

To distract herself from her romantic woes, Georgia throws herself into Mac-Useless play rehearsals and planning a Viking wedding, and tries to avoid all thoughts of boy decoys, Italian-American dreamboats . . . and let’s not forget guitar-plucking Sex Gods!

My Opinion of the Book

Another great installment into the life of Georgia Nicholson. I had figured out what the big "surprise" Jas & Tom had for Georgia before the book actually told it, but I think that the "surprise" is going to make for a vair, vair interesting book #8! I can't wait for "Love Is a Many Trousered Thing" to come out in July!

Book #16 - Ghost of a Chance by Yasmine Galenorn

2007-05-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0425191281

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 262pp

Pub. Date: August 5, 2003

Genre: Paranormal Mystery

Series: #1 in the Chintz 'n China series

Bought at Barnes & Noble for about $15 I believe

From the Publisher

Emerald O'Brien is the owner of the Chintz 'n China Tea Room where guests are served the perfect blend of tea and tarot reading. She never set out to be a detective, but once word gets out that she can communicate with the dead, there's no turning back...

When the ghost of Susan Mitchell asks for Emerald's help in convicting her own murderer, Emerald can't refuse. Along with her friends-an ex-supermodel and a cop-and her new love interest, Emerald must search for clues to put the killer behind bars-and this tortured soul to rest.

My Opinion of the Book

This first book in the Chintz 'n China series was a very good introduction to the series. I learned a lot about all of the main characters and their lives. The mystery that Emerald was working on solving kept me in suspense, even though I did have a guess at how things were going to come out in the end. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series that are currently waiting on Mt. TBR! :)

Book #15 - All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris

2007-05-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 0441014941

Format: Hardback, 323pp

Pub. Date: May 1, 2007

Genre: Paranormal Mystery

Series: #7 in the Southern Vampire series

Bought at Barnes & Noble for about $15 I believe

From the Publisher

Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse has her hands full dealing with every sort of undead and paranormal creature imaginable. And after being betrayed by her longtime vampire love, Sookie must not only deal with a new man in her life-the shapeshifter Quinn-but also contend with the long-planned vampire summit.

The summit is a tense situation. The vampire queen of Louisiana is in a precarious position, her power base weakened by hurricane damage to New Orleans. And there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. Soon, Sookie must decide what side she'll stand with. And her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe.

My Opinion of the Book

Yet another great Sookie story. This is one of my favorite vampire series and I absolutely can't wait for the TV series to start this fall. I still don't know who I really want Sookie to end up with, but I'm really leaning towards Eric just because I love his personality. *grin* Now when will the next installment come out? *pouts*

Book #14 - He's On Top edited by Rachel Kramer Bussell

2007-05-08T21:18:00.000-07:00

ISBN: 1573442704

Format: Trade Paperback, 172pp

Pub. Date: March 19, 2007

Genre: Erotica

Series: Not part of a series, but has a counterpart called "She's On Top"

I believe I bought this at one of the local Borders for $14.95

From the Publisher

He’s on Top pays homage to those irresistible men who control their partners with a glance, a tickling whip, or a measured smack on the bottom. As true tops, the bossy hunks in these stories understand that erotic BDSM is about exulting in power that is freely yielded. Contributors such as Amanda Earl, Mackenzie Cross, Alison Tyler, Mike Kimera, and others cover the full range of the male dom’s brand of sensual sadism, from spanking and bondage to public sex and power exchange.

My Opinion of the Book

I enjoyed all of the stories in this book. There were varying levels and styles of dominance introduced and I thought all of the author's did a really good job with their stories. I did have a few fave stories and I plan on looking for more by the following authors:

N. T. Morley
Teresa Noelle Roberts
Rachel Kramer Bussel
Thomas S. Roche

Book #13 - Hunter's Moon by C.T. Adams & Cathy Clamp

2007-03-19T07:36:00.001-07:00

ISBN: 0765357359

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 328pp

Pub. Date: October 31, 2006

Genre: Paranormal romance

Series: #1 in A Tale of the Sazi series

Depends on WHICH copy of this book you are referring to when you ask where I bought it. I can't remember where I bought my original copy of the book, but currently it is lost in no man's land, so in the meantime CTGMOM bought me a 2nd copy at Meijer for $4.99 (or maybe cheaper since they discount books there), and then I found a 3rd copy for $2 at Book & Music Exchange (a UBS here in New Albany). I actually read the copy CTGMOM picked up though. :P

From the Publisher

SHE NEEDS A WHITE KNIGHT

Sue Quentin has reached the end of her rope - she's desperaate, and there's only one way out: death. Her plan doesn't include falling for Tony, the mysterious hit man she hires. He listens when she speaks and somehow convinces her that maybe her problems aren't insurmountable. He even thinks that her little potbelly is sexy. So what if he's a werewolf - everyone has flaws!

Sue enjoys being coddled by Tony, and, for his part, Tony likes the way Sue moans when he touches her. She begins to think that she and Tony might have a shot at a future together, despite his unorthodox profession... and even though she doesn't know his real name.

But when Tony's enemies - not all of whom are fully human - decide Sue makes a perfect target, will Tony risk letting his darker side out durin the day to save her?

My Opinion of the Book

I ended up enjoying this book quite a bit despite how many times I picked it up and put it down... fell asleep reading it... etc... I am looking forward to future books in this series (which I already have on Mt. TBR to read) so that I can see how things progress for Tony, Sue, and other characters in the book.

This wasn't a "light & fluffy" paranormal romance like I read more so, but it was still a fun read with some funny moments. I was a bit surprised by some of the stuff that did occur towards the end of the book.

Book #12 - Out of Whack by Jeff Strand

2007-03-10T12:50:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0759945020

Format: Trade Paperback, 248pp

Pub. Date: February 28, 2004

Genre: Comic Fiction

Dates Read: I give up tracking this! I jump back and forth between books too much!

Not part of a series, though I wish it were!

Bought at Amazon.com for $12.95

From the Publisher

From the author of How to Rescue a Dead Princess comes Out of Whack, an outrageous comedy about friendship, love, following your dreams, and other really scary stuff. Seth Trexler has two goals in life: to find success with his off-the-wall sketch comedy troupe, and to win the girl of his dreams. But when you suffer from brain-erasing stage fright and an incredible female-phobia, those goals can be a bit tricky to attain. With his best friend Travis at his side, Seth struggles to overcome his fears (along with the 2,873 other roadblocks in the path to success) in this hilariously demented yet heartfelt tale.

But don't read it for the laughs. And don't read it for the heartfelt parts. Read it for the sex scene, which proves that even if you're filled with ravenous animal passion, trying to dramatically tear off somebody's underwear can only lead to wedgies.

My Opinion of the Book

I have to say this may be my favorite Jeff Strand book yet, although I still really like the Andrew Mayhem series. So... I guess I'll have to re-read those to better decide. This book made me laugh a LOT and the clog dancing joke was just priceless for me since I am a clogging instructor. For those of you out there who have yet to read a Strand book and want to laugh, you have got to try his stuff... he is awesome!

Book #11 - Pressure by Jeff Strand

2007-03-04T18:59:00.001-08:00

ISBN: 0976633949

Format: Hardback, 239pp

Pub. Date: August 1, 2006

Genre: Horror

Dates Read: 03/05/07-02/10/07 (6 days)

Not part of a series

Bought on Amazon.com for $25

From the Publisher

Alex stared at the red pocketknife shown to him by his daughter. A pocketknife owned by somebody he hadn't seen in years... CHILDREN They met first in boarding school at age twelve. Alex Fletcher, shy and scared. Darren Rust, always furiously scribbling away in a private journal. It was not an immediate friendship, but then one night Darren convinced his roommate to sneak off school grounds to see something glorious. There was a sleazy strip club, you see, and every once in a while the back door opened just long enough to maybe catch a quick glimpse... Though a bond was formed from their pre-pubescent interest in completely naked women, Darren had another interest. A morbid curiosity about death. A curiosity that turned into something much more sinister. FRIENDS They crossed paths again in college and became the best of friends. But Darren wasn't just looking for a friend. He had dark, ghastly urges squirming around in his mind, and he believed he saw the same things--the urge to hurt, the urge to kill--in Alex. He was looking for somebody who understood. A partner. But Alex could never become a monster. Not even when Darren tried to bring out his friend's most deeply buried feelings of rage. Not even when Darren tried to show him the euphoria of having that much power over another human being. It just couldn't happen...right? ENEMIES Now Alex has a wife and a daughter. And Darren is back. He's hiding. He's patient. His mind is twisted in the worst possible way. And he's seeking a soul mate.

My Opinion of the Book

Jeff was right when he said this book isn't like his others. I'm a huge fan of his comic/horror Andrew Mayhem series and I do think that I enjoy that writing-style of his more so than that of PRESSURE, but I did enjoy PRESSURE and would read other books by Strand written in this style. It's nice to see authors having various writing styles and being able to pull them all off! :) PRESSURE is a very weird book and Darren is just a f'ed up character. I hope I never meet anyone like him! *shudders*

Book #10 - How To Rescue a Dead Princess by Jeff Strand

2007-03-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 1594264538

Format: Trade Paperback, 186pp

Pub. Date: July 7, 2006

Genre: Comic Fantasy

Dates Read: 03/03/07 - 03/04/07 (2 days)

Not part of a series

Purchased at Amazon.com for $12.00

From the Publisher

From the creative genius who would have brought you Hamlet, The Scarlet Letter, and a less-boring Moby Dick (if he'd been born on time) comes this outrageous comic fantasy. It's a tale filled with so much adventure, so much excitement, so much vocabulary, that all who read it will suffer a fit of giddiness that will freak out everyone in their general vicinity.

It's the saga of Randall, a squire assigned to escort the lovely Princess Janice on a diplomatic journey of utmost importance. Then she gets killed. Now Randall must overcome desperate odds and ridiculous dangers in his quest to bring her back to life...before the entire Generic Fantasy Land falls into the evil clutches of The Dark One!

Packed to the bursting point with unrestrained silliness (so be sure to hold it a safe distance from your face when reading), How to Rescue a Dead Princess is the novel all the really cool people are reading this year, an epic fantasy for your family to cherish approximately forever.

My Opinion of the Book

So I get addicted to MySpace because I found that I can actually talk to authors on there, which got me extremely excited! I come across Jeff Strand (whose books I've thoroughly enjoyed thus far) and end up chatting it up with him. This leads me to tracking down even MORE of his books and went a bit crazy on various sites trying to find his books. At any rate, Jeff is a fantastic guy and author! DEAD PRINCESS was just the book I needed this weekend because I was having a very depressing weekend. Thanks to Strand's book I was able to laugh my way through all the stress and avoid yet ANOTHER migraine! I don't want to spoil anything from the book by commenting directly about anything inside, but I'm going to highly recommend this book to any and all that need a good laugh... yes, it's a bit silly, but we all need silly from time to time. I still think his Andrew Mayhem series is better, but this one is not far behind them!

"Oh defecate!!!" (one of my fave lines from DEAD PRINCESS) I almost forgot, you should go check out Jeff Strand's website:

JeffStrand.com

Book #9 - Forever In Blue by Ann Brashares

2007-02-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0385729367

Format: Hardback, 328pp

Pub. Date: January 9, 2007

Genre: Teen Fiction

Dates Read: 02/24/07-03/01/07 (6 days)

Series: #4 in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Cheriepie loaned this copy of the book to me as she snagged it on BookMooch, but has yet to read the others in the series.

From the Publisher

With unraveled embroidery and fraying hems, the Traveling Pants are back for one last, glorious summer.

Lena: Immerses herself in her painting and an intoxicating summer fling, fearing that the moment she forgets about Kostos will be the moment she sees him again.

Carmen: Falls under the spell of a sophisticated college friend for whom a theatrical role means everything and the heritage of the Pants means nothing.

Bridget: Joins a dig for an ancient city on the coast of Turkey and discovers that her archaeology professor is available in every way except one.

Tibby: Leaves behind someone she loves, wrongly believing he will stay where she has left him.

Join Ann Brashares's beloved sisterhood once again in a dazzling, fearless novel about a summer that will forever change the lives of Lena, Carmen, Bee, and Tibby, here and now, past and future, together and apart.

My Opinion of the Book

I think this is the first Traveling Pants book that didn't make me cry, which is a wonder since I've been so depressed lately (hence this is only my 9th read of the year), but I did get goosebumps several times and I was quite a bit sad about the ending of the book because I'm not sure that there will be any more books put out in this series. :( Anyway, I loved it just as much as the other books and do hope that there are more to come or else Ms. Brashares goes off into another storyline that's just as good.

Book #8 - Devil's Bargain by Rachel Caine

2007-02-11T19:53:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0373513674

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 288pp

Pub. Date: August 1, 2005

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Dates Read: 02/11/07 & 02/15/07-02/18/07 (5 days)

Series: #1 in Red Letter Days series

Recieved as part of a bookring from colebear

From the Publisher

NEVER TRUST A MAN BEARING RED ENVELOPES

Jazz Callender - don't ever call her Jasmine - is an ex-cop with a goal: opening her own private detective agency and proving her former partner is innocent of murder. Too bad no one will lend her the money. Until a sexy lawyer with the devil's own grin appears with an offer she can't refuse...

$100,000. A savvy new partner. And an agreement to make any case arriving via red envelope a top priority. But if Jazz accepts, there's no turning back. Because once she opens that envelope, all hell's gonna break loose...

RED LETTER DAYS

You'll never believe what's inside

My Opinion of the Book

This was a fun read unlike anything I've read before really. The paranormal aspect isn't much, but it is in there with a "psychic". I read where some people thought this book was bad due to the main character being too whiny, but I didn't really see that at all. The book ended with a major cliffhanger so I'm really looking forward to reading "The Devil's Due" which is next in the series. I'll be starting it soon, but have a couple of other bookrings I need to get to first.

Book #7 - Weather Balloons Make Rotten Sex Toys by Annabelle du Fouet

2007-02-04T20:44:00.001-08:00

ISBN: 1419954830

Format: Trade Paperback, 209pp

Pub. Date: June 30, 2006

Genre: Humor, Erotica

Dates Read: 02/03/07-02/12/07 & 02/15/07 (11 days)

Bought at Borders via the buy 5 romance for the price of 4 (so, this one ended up being free rather than $11.49)

From the Publisher

Unemployed scholar Annabelle du Fouet lived a quiet life until her Uncle Henry disappeared, leaving behind a mountain of kinky porn. Ordered by her Aunt Ruth to get rid of it, Annabelle decided to study the books, magazines and videos, hoping to understand Uncle Henry's secret life. Then Annabelle made a decision that changed her life;to write the world's first research report on all things kinky. And she would do it from the inside. As Mistress Dominique, Annabelle plunged ito the murky world of kink and changed it forever. Mostly for the worse, as it turned out. Follow Mistress Dominique's adventures as she: - Destroys a kinky party by filling a house with smelly green foam. - Causes a gigantic submissive known as Crazy Morty to terrorize a trailer park. - Starts a riot that sends the chairwoman of the Savvy Seeders garden club to a psychiatric hospital. - Leads a band of enraged ponygirls to attack the Rocking Robins bird club. - Helps a drunken kinky clown traumatize a women's religious studies group. And much more! Through Annabelle's historical research, you will learn why Vikings were kinky but not as kinky as the ancient Egyptians. You will discover why the man who invented golf also invented an implement found in dungeons everywhere, and how a man named Thomas Edison (but not that Edison) nearly blew up a town by inventing the world's first electric kinky device. You will meet people with a fetish for pirate outfits, a man who wears an owl suit, and people who pretend to be elderly in order to cause scenes in bookstores. Be warned though;while this in-depth research document contains frank discussions of sexual deviations, its history and the people who participate in it, there are no actual sexual encounters described. Really. Please! Annabelle is a professional and this was all done in the name of science.

My Opinion of the Book

This is the funniest damn book I've read in a long time!!! I recommend this to anyone that isn't bashful and wants a good laugh. CTGMOM and I read this one aloud during a couple of our bookshopping excursions and were laughing so hard it was making it hard for her to drive (which isn't good if you've seen her drive *whistle* ) The author seems so naive, yet is probably extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the "world of kink". Definitely check this out if you're not afraid of this subject matter. Just a warning... don't try reading or eating at the same time... could really be hazardous. Also, this would make a great party read with a group of friends! :)

Book #6 - In Deep Voodoo by Stephanie Bond

2007-02-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0060820578

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 357pp

Pub. Date: September 27, 2005

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Dates Read: 01/28/07-01/29/07 & 02/04/07-02/11/07 (10 days)

Series: #1 in Mojo/Voodoo Series

Bought at HalfPrice Books in Louisville, KY for $3.50

From the Publisher

Start With Bad Mojo ...

There's something strange afoot in the small town of Mojo, Louisiana. Yet even as the annual voodoo festival gets underway, Penny Francisco, who runs a health food business, refuses to believe in black magic. Her mind is on celebrating her divorce from her lying, cheating husband Deke.

Add a Pinprick of Revenge ...

Fueled by run-ins with her ex-mother-in-law and Deke's busty mistress, Penny is eager for the "emancipation party" her friends plan. When she receives a Deke voodoo doll as a gag gift, she sticks it with a pin as a joke. But when Deke winds up fatally stabbed, the police aren't laughing.

And Watch Things Boil Over ...

A junk-food junkie P.I. offers his services, and although Penny is wary of the sexy Cajun's motives (and his diet), she's desperate. Dodging a media sideshow and a looming murder rap, Penny realizes that somehow she's landed herself In Deep Voodoo.

My Opinion of the Book

This book was a lot of fun to read! I was having trouble putting it down in the end because I wanted to know who the killer was. The books had lots of twists & turns and it all comes out in the end. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series, "Finding Your Mojo", which goes on in more detail about one of the other characters.

Book #5 - Dead and Dateless by Kimberly Raye

2007-02-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 034549217X

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 330pp

Pub. Date: January 30, 20067

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Dates Read: 01/29/07-02/04/2007 (7 days)

Series: #2 in "A Novel of Vampire Love" series

Bought at Barnes & Noble the day BEFORE it was supposed to come out for $6.99 (minus my 10% discount of course)

From the Publisher

SHE'D LIKE HER BLOOD BOTTLED, PLEASE!

The sassiest vampire in all of Manhattan, Lil Marchette, is the owner of Dead End Dating - a matchmaking service for hip, intelligent singles like herself. After only three months, business is booming, and she can finally pay her bills (and, more important, feed a hungry cosmetics addiction). But when one of her clients turns up dead (as in never coming back), Lil is name as the prime suspect.

Murder?

Sure, she's a vampre, but she can't even work up her nerve when it comes to blood-sucking. Hacking somebody to pieces is so out of the question.

To make matters worse, Lil must also contend with a pack of werewolves who ask - no, demand - that she find each one a tall, dark, and handsome mate before the next full moon. Plus, the to-die-for-if-I-wasn't-already-dead Ty Bonner, a lusciously sexy lover but totally unsuitable eternity mate, is never far from her midnight fantasies. But Lil has no time for such thoughts. She must prove her innocence and focus on pairing off the dead and the furry - and maybe stake a claim to her own tasty true love.

My Opinion of the Book

So... there has been too much of a gap since I read the first one to know which I liked better, but this was a fun read and I'm looking forward to the next one, which *sigh* doesn't come out until October of this year. I'm just glad this book finally involved some vamp sex (not to mention the werewolf orgy!!!) as it was needed in the first book IMO! ;)

Book #4 - Sleeping with the Fishes by MaryJanice Davidson

2007-01-25T19:39:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0515142220
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 272pp
Pub. Date: November 28, 2006
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Dates Read: 01/14/07-01/16/07 and 01/25/07-01/27/07 (5 days)
Series: I believe it will be a series, but not sure of title yet since it's the first one
Borrowed a copy from CTGMOM and then was also sent a copy from Noumena12... LOL!!!

From the Publisher

Fred is a mermaid. But stop right there. Whatever image you're thinking of right now, forget it. Fred is not blonde. She's not busom. And she's definitely not perky. In fact, Fred can be downright cranky. And it doesn't help matters that her hair is ocean-colored.

Being a mermaid does help Fred when she works at the New England Aquarium. But, needless to say, it's there that she gets involved in something fishy. Weird levels of toxins have been found in the local water. A gorgeous marine biologist wants her help investigating. So does her mer-person ruler, the High Prince of the Black Sea. You'd think it would be easy for a mermaid to get to the bottom of things. Think again...

What I thought of the book

I had heard a lot of people disappointed in this book, but I loved it! I guess I'm less picky than some and can take a bit more "fluff" in my reading. This definitely was a fun & fluffy read and I can't wait for the next book in the series... unfortunately, there is no clue to when the next book will come out. I loved all the characters in the book, but I have to agree with CTGMOM that Fred's friend, Jonas, definitely made the book! He was frickin' hysterical!!!

Book #3 - You Suck by Christopher Moore

2007-01-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0060590297
Format: Hardback, 328pp
Pub. Date: January 16, 2007
Genre: Fiction/Paranormal
Dates Read: 01/17/07-01/25/07 (9 days)
Series: Jody & Tommy series, #2
Bought book via pre-order at Amazon for $14.93

From the Publisher

"YOU BITCH, YOU KILLED ME. YOU SUCK!"

Being dead sucks. Make that being undead sucks. Literally. Just ask Thomas C. Flood. Waking up after a fantastic night unlike anything he's ever experienced, he discovers that his girlfriend, Jody - the woman of his dreams - is a vampire. And surprise! Now he's one, too.

For some couples, the whole biting-and-blood thing would have been a deal reaker. But Tommy and Jody are in love, and they vow to work through their issues. Like how much Jody should teach Tommy about his new superpowers (and how much he needs to learn on his own). Plus there's Tommy's cute new minion, sixteen-year-old goth girl Abby Normal. (Well, someone has to run errands during daylight hours!)

Making the relationship work, however, is the least of Jody and Tommy's problems. Word has it that the vampire who nibbled on Jody wasn't supposed to be recruiting any new members into the club. Even worse, Tommy's erstwhile turkey-bowling pals are out to get him, at the urging of a blue-dyed Las Vegas call girl named (duh) Blue.

And that really sucks.

What I thought of the book

Okay, this has to have been my favorite Moore book thus far. BSF had replaced Lust Lizard as my favorite, but this one was by far even funnier!!! I found myself laughing out loud on almost every page at something and occasionally skipping over laughing and going straight into a snort. Abby, the goth girl, was hilarious and I loved the way she talked and wrote in her journal... she cracked me up. I wonder where Moore gets some of the ideas he comes up with, but as long as he'll share them with us in books, I'm content with that alone. Based on the end of the book, I highly think there will be another in this "series" to come out... I just hope that I don't have to wait years for it as I'm ready for more of it now!

Book #2 - Roses Are Red by James Patterson

2007-01-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0446605484
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 378pp
Pub. Date: January 2002
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Dates Read: 01/01/07-01/09/07 (9 days)
Series: Alex Cross Series, #6
Bought book at New Albany library sale (assuming either $0.50 or $0.25 depending on if it was mystery sale day or not)

From the Publisher

In this heart-pounding but touchingly romantic new thriller, Detective Alex Cross pursues the most complex and brilliant killer he's ever confronted— mysterious criminal who calls himself the Mastermind.

In a series of crimes that has stunned Washington, D.C., bank robbers have been laying out precise demands when they enter the building—and then killing the bank employees and their families if those instructions are not followed to the letter.

Detective Alex Cross takes on the case, certain that this is no ordinary bank robber at work—the pathological need for control and perfection is too great. Cross is in the midst of a personal crisis at home, but the case becomes all-consuming as he learns that the Mastermind is plotting one huge, last, perfect crime.

With twists and reversals that only the mind of James Patterson could create, Roses Are Red is by far the most explosive, surprising, and fast-paced novel of James Patterson's extraordinary career.

What I thought of the book

I received "Mary, Mary" by James Patterson as a gift in the book relayer's Boxing Day exchange this past Christmas and it made me realize how much I've been wanting to get back to this series as I had read the first 5 books back in 2004. I'm really glad I picked this book up because I still love this series! I was a bit frustrated with the ending as I had planned on trying to read a couple of bookrings that I have waiting for me, but with the way this book ended I HAVE to read "Violets Are Blue" next. Hopefully it won't leave me hanging so badly that I can't then go on to a bookring or two that I need to be reading. :P So... a special thanks goes to alsgal for getting me back hooked onto this series! I've been reading nothing but paranormal stuff for so long that this was a refreshing change (although I LOVE my paranormals!). Of course, I have heard that "Violets Are Blue" contains a vampire so that should be quite interesting. I'm curious to see what Patterson does with that! :)

Book #1 - Eternal Hunger by Cameron Dean

2007-01-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

ISBN: 0345492552
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 336pp
Pub. Date: December 26, 2006
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Dates Read: 12/27/06-01/01/07 (6 days)
Series: Candace Steele Vampire Hunter Series, #3
Bought book at Barnes & Noble ($6.99, but had exchanged another book in for this 1 and 1 other, so... basically I got the book free!!!)

From the Publisher

A vampire killer with a Las Vegas beat, Candace Steele has risked everything to vanquish the forces of darkness -- and to resist her own passionate desire for Ash, a dark and seductive vampire. But suddenly the stakes are raised. Candace has been attacked by a member of the Board, an ancient, powerful, and secret vampire sect with a vendetta against Ash. Now the only way she can save her life is to give herself to Ash -- body and soul -- and become a vampire.
Lusting for blood and starving for Ash’s embrace, Candace is pulled deeper and deeper into his world. She no longer trusts his promise that she will not have to remain a vampire forever. And as the hunger threatens to overwhelm her, it may be too late for her to leave the darkness behind.

What I thought of the book

I was so excited about reading this book after the first 2 in the series that I drove to 4 stores on the 26th looking for the book... unforunately no one had it out yet. The next day I called Barnes & Noble in the morning and had them hold me a copy so that I could pick it up on my lunch break. I started reading it that night and due to the holidays I didn't manage to get really into it and finish it until January 1st. I read over half the book that day. I think another reason it took me a while to get into it was because I was afraid to reach the end as I knew it was the end of the series. Once I got halfway through the book, I couldn't put it down though. I'm still not sure if I'm happy with the way it ended. It definitely wasn't a bad ending, but it wasn't really what I wanted to happen. Of course, the 3rd book started off the way I had planned on it ending. This was one of my favorite series that I read in 2006 and I'm glad I was able to start 2007 off with such a great book! I highly recommend this series to all paranormal fans, unless of course they don't like a lot of hot sex scenes! YUMMY!!!

2007 Reads

2007-01-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, I've never been good at keeping blogs and I always say I'm going to change, but... this time I hope I mean it! I'm going to try keeping track of the following regarding the books I read this year:

- Title/Author (duh!)
- Book Description
- Genre
- Number of Pages
- Time-frame I read the book in
- where I got the book from & how much it cost (if I remember)
- Opinion of the book (although I can't promise I'll go into detail as I'm not a reviewer kinda person)