Friday, April 29, 2011

Blog Lovin' Blog Hop

Well it's time for a little blog lovin with...
Hosted by Jen

Each week we get a fun new question!
And this weeks question is....

"Summer is coming quickly - what 2011 summer release are you are most looking forward to?"

Well I'm pretty sure that I speak for both Greta, and myself by saying that hands down this goes to....

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
Expected release date July 12th, 2011

And let me just say this book can't get here fast enough!!
I absolutely fell in love with this series, and OMG Linger does a lot more than linger. The evil cliffy at the end as left this story is not only lingering in my thoughts, but it has started to take over and sprout roots. Leaving me almost physically ill with needing more. I can't wait to see how this series is going to an end!

So now I ask you.....What book are you dying to get your hands on this summer??

What we've been up to this week:
This week as been a little rough here in the wastelands. The wicked witch brought her tornados to BOTH our towns this week, but never fear she didn't get either one of these flying monkeys!!

~ Head over to Because Greta Said So for a chance to win The Sinful Rock Hard Giveaway
~ Tell me what lengths you would go to, to get your hands on a book A Picture Is Worth 1000 Words
~ Get a taste of what your missing at this weeks super HOT Teaser Tuesday








Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Backstage Pass Review and a Sinful Rock Hard Giveaway



Hello there buttercups!! It is I "GRETA THE GREAT".

Darkfallen won't take her nose out of Olivia Cunning's book Backstage Pass. So it is my honor to give you guys the low down on this nom of a book.


Have you read Backstage Pass?
IF "no" then WHY THE HELLS BELLS NOT?

If "yes" then did you husband decide he needed to learn how to play guitar?

Here is what Goodreads had to say about it:




It's been months since Brian Sinclair, lead guitarist for the famous rock band, Sinners, composed anything. Unable to write the music that once flowed so naturally, Brian is lost without his musical mojo. But when sexy psychology professor Myrna Evans comes on tour to study groupie mentality, Brian may have found the spark he needs to reignite his musical genius. When lust turns to love, will Brian be able to convince Myrna that what they have is more than just a fling, and that now that he's found his heart's muse, he doesn't want to live without her?



And here's what Darkfallen... the little Minx, thought:




For the love of all things BOB and Hustler, here we go!

Myrna is a university professor in Kansas City. A human sexuality professor to be exact.


While she is away on a convention with her stuffy, boring colleagues she runs
into the Sinners, her favorite metal band, at the hotel bar. Surrounded by
boring suits she decides to go talk to them. I mean what does she has to lose
right? Before she knows it Myrna is sucked into the world of music tours,
groupies, and sexually exploration. Along the way Myrna loses a few things, but
gains something that she thought she would never posses again. Or that she would
want to.

Cunnings doesn't waste any time getting right down to the nitty
gritty. She dives right in leaving you saying things like: Ohmygodthatshot *fans
myself*, and at others EWWWWW No don't do that! *gags a little* then *blushes*

Uh Huh that's right I gaged and then blushed...this book is making me
question just how twisted my buried deviant side is. *winks*

In the end not only did Cunnings make you feel things...dark, sexy, hot inferno things, but she also painted a story that made me fall for the characters. By the time she was done with me I began to care about each and everyone of the Sinners band
mates, and wow don't get me started on Brian. Brian loves Myrna in a way that as
little girls we all dream about a man loving us one day. I know what your
thinking, and NO I DIDN'T CRY...ok maybe I got a little misty eyed. Shut up! ;)

This is a book that your husband will definitely reap the benefits from.
Well if he doesn't mind getting slightly raped in his sleep...thank gawd mine
didn't;)

Just a funny side note: The hubs actually asked me "What have
you done with my wife, and please by all means keep her there." lolz


Darkfallen's rating:










As you can see she really enjoyed herself ;)

And from what I hear her hub-a-dubs enjoyed himself even more ;) Muhahahahahas!! *wink wink OBVIOUS WINK!

Got you curious? Oh you know you want to read it ;)

BUT! That's not all that we are offering you today. Not only do you get a most fabu review by our little Miss Darkfallen but you also get a Sinfuly Delicious Contest by Ms. Olivia Cunning herself!!



All you have to do is:

leave us a comment,

throw in your email address,

and be a follower




and BA-BOOM you are entered for a chance to win your very own copy of "ROCK HARD". The sexy sequel to "Backstage Pass".




Erotic romance is one of the bestselling subgenres in the romance category. Olivia Cunning delivers the perfect blend of steamy sex, heartwarming romance, and a wicked sense of humor.

This second in the Sinners on Tour series features lead singer Sedric Lionheart who became a playboy after his fiancee, Jessica, broke his heart. Forced on a summer tour together for two entire months, but stubbornly desperate to stay apart, they find a million steamy reasons why they had that lovin' feeling in the first place.


The contest will start today and the winner will be drawn on May 4, 2011.



Sound good?


Want one more try?




Then let us know who your rock and roll fantasy man or woman is and we'll slip your name into the hat for an extra chance at winning this rock hard book.




Good luck chick-a-dees and be on the lookout for a spanktastic short story about what happened when the lights went out after Backstage Pass.





The date for release is still up in the air but we'll keep ya posted.




Now get out there and shake what your mama gave ya, go buy Backstage Pass, and meet your hubz in bed for a nice little one on one concert :) Then when the pawing and panting is over dream about winning "Rock Hard". Cuz once you read "Backstage Pass" you'll be screaming for more.

RAWR!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

TEASER TUESDAY

Tuesday Teaser is a weekly bookish meme,
hosted by Miz B of Should be Reading. Any one can play along! just do the following:



1. Grab your current read.

2. Open to a random page.

3. Share two 'teaser' sentences from somewhere on that page.

4. Add the title and Author's name too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR pile.


 

BE CAREFULL NOT TO ADD SPOIL
*****************************
My weekly Teaser  comes from the book   Backstage Pass  by olivia cunning. This is a book you really must try..



Backstage Pass (Sinners on Tour, #1)

She touched his lips with her fingertip. “If I let you stay, do you promise to behave?” “Absolutely not.” Her finger moved from his lips to trace his eyebrow. “In that case, I insist.” 

Now this was mine, now come and share yours...

Saturday, April 23, 2011

A Picture Is Worth A 1000 Words

 We all know the saying
"A picture is worth a thousand words."
So I ask you...
What Does this one say?

 
Don't know?
Wondering what the hell this has to do with a book blog?
*scratches head*

Well lets find out shall we?
Yes, yes rather you want to or not, we shall ;)

Ok so first what do we know.
We know the girl is wearing a wedding dress. That she is standing on what appears to be a dirty loading dock. To be a little more specific she is posing on a loading dock of an abandon warehouse, in the graffiti district.
How do I know all this?

Because that girl is me!
 So now you know that in addition to the books I like I'm just all around strange. Traditional is not a word often used to describe me, in fact if you say it's traditional then I'll prolly avoid it like the plague. Also if you were wondering, yes that loading dock was filthy! So was the graffiti walls, but it was worth the pictures! Thank goddess the abundance of alcohol consumed that day kept me from caring about the condition of my dress by then time we made it to the reception *winks*
Darkfallen this is all great, but this IS a book blog....what does this have to do with books?

Ok I'll give you a hint....I got married on June 5th 2010
What else happened on that day?
Here maybe this will jog your memory...


Yep yep that's the day Stephanie Meyer released The Short Life Of Bree Tanner.

So now I bet you have one last question.
What does A have to do with B?

The girl in the pic (me), couldn't wait to get back form her honeymoon to get her hands on a copy of this book so.....one thing lead to another and I was lucky I wasn't late to my own wedding. Well barely, I made it there with 15 minutes to spare, because I dragged my M.O.H, me in my wedding dress, her in a full length formal dress, into Borders to buy this book. I really wish someone would have thought to take a picture! The people at Borders looked at us like we were crazy. In their defense, we are a little;)

In the interest of getting better acquainted I thought I would share my little story.
Now I ask you...what is the craziest thing you've done to get your hands on a book?

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

Ok so chicken dinner...ummm yea cheesy much? lolz
*facepalms*

Anyways....

First I would like to take a minute to say thanks to all my followers!
Paranormal Wasteland has been alive now for a whole 15 days, and I haven't burnt it down yet:))
Yippee!!!
I couldn't have done it without all of you. Thanx for baring with me as I learn the ropes. I can't tell you how happy each and every one of your comments makes me. While there will be many more giveaways in our future *hint hint* lets get one with our first one shall we?

*squidward drum roll*


~ S.J. Wright ~

and guess what...this here lass as her own book. The Vampire's Warden, so go check here out!

Many Thanks to all! Hope you had as much fun as I did!
Stay tuned a little birdy told me we get to play again very soon *winks*


Bloodfever by Karen Monning: Review

By Karen Monning
Look for it at your local indie or at Amazon

My good pal Danny over at Bewitched Bookworms absolutely adores this series!
While it is true that we normally agree on books, I am still having trouble with this series....but I won't lose hope!

Synopsis borrowed from Goodreads:

I used to think my sister and I were just two nice southern girls who'd get married in a few years and settle down to a quiet life. Then I discovered that Alina and I descend, not from good wholesome southern stock, but from an ancient Celtic bloodline of powerful sidhe-seers, people who can see the Fae. Not only can I see the terrifying otherworldly race, but I can sense the sacred Fae relics that hold the deadliest of their magic.


When my sister was found dead in a trash-filled alley in Dublin, I came over to get answers. Now all I want is revenge. And after everything I've learned about myself, I know I have the power to get it....

MacKayla Lane's ordinary life underwent a complete makeover when she landed on Ireland's shores and was plunged into a world of deadly sorcery and ancient secrets.

In her fight to stay alive, Mac must find the Sinsar Dubh-a million-year-old book of the blackest magic imaginable, which holds the key to power over both the worlds of the Fae and of Man. Pursued by Fae assassins, surrounded by mysterious figures she knows she cannot trust, Mac finds herself torn between two deadly and irresistible men: V'lane, the insatiable Fae who can turn sensual arousal into an obsession for any woman, and the ever-inscrutable Jericho Barrons, a man as alluring as he is mysterious.

For centuries the shadowy realm of the Fae has coexisted with that of humans. Now the walls between the two are coming down, and Mac is the only thing that stands between them....



My thoughts:
and please don't throw tomatoes at my head...

First let me say this was more like 3.5 stars which means.....it's getting better!!!


Mac is starting to show signs of improvement. She is growing up a little. I'm glad to report that I didn't have to hear about quite as much pretty in pink stuffy stuff. Yippee!! But it gets better! Not only did I not have to succumb to the girly stuff, Mac has a dark side....A side that wants to shred all things pink until they are no longer identifiable. Oh I am so gonna like getting to this side of Mac.

Mac and Barrons are up to their usual OPPS hunting in this second installment, and I have to admit I enjoyed the level of action in this book a lot more. For me the first book was lacking in action, romance, and had an abundance of unnecessary (sometimes annoying) fluffy details. I couldn't really stand Mac. In fact she drove me absolutely batty. I am happy to report, that while this still isn't AMAZING for me yet, it is getting better. The action doubled, the fluffy fluff was halved, now if only we had a little more romance we would be in there!

I really and truly love the world of fae that Monning has created, but I just need the romance to take it over the edge. What can I say? Apparently I'm a romance junkie. Also this series is labeled as romance....so where is it? This is book 2 and I just finally got a kiss, that I'm sure won't be repeating itself any time soon. Please don't misunderstand me. I don't need full on erotic sex scenes, nor do I expect them, but can a girl get some LOVE? Just a little? I guess what I'm saying is that in the end labeling this as romance is a little misleading. I think urban fantasy probably fits the bill.

I will be continuing on in this series. I have every intention of seeing it through to the end, but for now I need to take a little break. I really hope that in book three Evil Mac will take over and kill the Pink Mac once and for all. Also maybe Evil Mac and Hot Illusive Barrons can give me a little romance. *waggles eyebrows* What can I say Barrons is HOT!!







3 1/2 stars!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Rock Me: Because Greta Said So

This is how it all started....

Once upon a time there was a girl who couldn't stand to read.
Then she picked up Twilight, or more like her besty forced it on her, and she hasn't been the same since. She devoured YA books left and right. Then Greta came along, and decided it was time for her to grow up. Time for her to broaden her horizons and see what the rest of the booky book world had to offer. Rock Me is the first book she decided to corrupt me with, and so...
was born, and the rest is history!

I quickly learned the devil wears a Greta mask!
Guess she didn't know hot tattoo guys are my kyrptonite;)
I will never be the same.
I have become her minion, and I will do whatever she says because she says so!

So lets get on with it! First a review and then an interview by none other than Greta herself;P
Pick up your copy today at your local indie or Amazon!!
Do it because Greta said so!!! lolz

Synopsis borrowed from Goodreads:

Loving him couldn’t be worse than losing him. Could it?


Candace Andrews has had enough of pleasing others. In an act of birthday rebellion, she sets out to please herself—by walking into the tattoo parlor owned by her cousin’s ex-boyfriend. All she wants is a little ink, and Brian’s just the guy to give it to her.

As soon as she submits to his masterful hands, though, the forbidden attraction she’s always felt for him resurfaces…and she realizes the devilishly sexy artist could give her so much more.

Sweet, innocent Candace is the last person Brian expected to see again. She’s everything he’s not, and her family despises him. He doesn’t need the hassle, but he needs her, and this time no one is taking her away. Not even those who threaten to make his life a living hell.

Backed into a corner, Candace faces the worst kind of choice. Cave in to those who think Brian is a living nightmare…or hold her ground and risk it all for the one man who rocks her world.

Warning: This book contains explicit sex, naughty language, tattoos aplenty, family drama, a hot rock concert…and a bad boy hero who’s pierced in all the right places.

Darkfallens Review:

So OMG I don't even know what to say....Shocker I now! lolz So I should probably start by saying that Rock me is the first Erotica book I have ever read. Also shocking, and again I know. How did I come to reading this totally erotic, leaving you walking around in a haze of passion, nothing can bother you mood seducing book?


One word, Greta. Sweet and apparently not so innocent Greta. For the love of BOB girl what have you done. What little virtue I had is now gone. Blown completely to smithereens. And I DON'T want it back.

Virtue you will NOT be missed! lolz

Ok enough of my lusting lets see if I can actually review this thing. *thinks cold thoughts*

Brian is my kryptonite. No seriously I mean it, he is my real life heroin. Just ask the hubs about the 36 hours of pain I made him sit through to get his full back tattooed. Lady's, Brian is the utter definition of the word HAWT! He is the bad boy from the right side of the tracks, covered in tatts, owns his own parlor, and has an apa piercing! (for those of you who don't know what that is do yourself a favor and google, I'll wait.)

Ok you back? Hope no one fainted lolz;)

Brian meets Candice, a sheltered, does what she is told, good girl. Candice decides to start a rebellion march that leads her right into Brian's tattoo parlor to get some ink done. She has always had a thing for him, even back when her cousin was dating him. Which yes is a little squicky, but hey I've felt that go. lolz I don't really know what else to say besides one thing leads to a smexy other, and bada bing bada boom. Num Num Num.

This wasn't entirely what I expected out of an Erotica novel. I guess I was thinking more along the lines of the written version of cheesy porn. This was so SO not that. I actually found myself getting sucked into the characters lives. Rooting for Candice to find her independence. Wanting to shake her every time she pulled away from Brian. All in all this book left me wanting in some pretty seductress kind of ways if you know what I mean *winks*.

I would like to say that I HATE the cover. I mean really? They could have put someone with some actually ink on the cover. It would have been way hotter. Trust me I know a thing or two on the subject and the guy on the cover doesn't fit the bill. Also what do they have that girl dressed in. Candice is supposed to be the good girl virgin. The girl on the cover looks like a porn star! Sorry but I'm not buying it;(
I have come to the understanding that this book is not liked by some because they say it is a rip off of a popular fanfic that shall remain nameless. Keep in mind that I haven't read that. Which is something that I am going to fix a.s.a.p. Also keep in mind that like a virgin, I simply have nothing else to compare it too. So for me this is OMG!


4 stars


So after reading this I decided that I too needed to corrupt someone with this peice of hotness.
So after pacing it on to my dear sweet and innocent friend Sofia.
She is new to GR so be a doll and go befriend her!!
 
Anyways where was I? Oh yea after she read Rock Me, and was thoroughly defiled, we decided a Q&A was in order. And what better person for the interviewer than the one and only Greta herself!
She asked and here is what we had to say:
 
Greta: Did you score after reading Rock ME?
 
Darkfallen: Lets just say the hubz decided he likes when I read Erotica! *waggles eyebrows*
Sofia: Ha! I hadn't scored at all BEFORE I read this story. I don't believe an erotica book would give me the courage, and make me horny enough to go out and just pick some random guy. Not that any guy would reject my offer, but I do have a reputation to maintain....did that sound prissy? lolz Okay, since this WAS a yes or no question, I'll just say, "No, I did not score."
 
Greta: Did you feel like throwing your purity ring into the trash and racing off to your nearest tattoo parlor?
 
Darkfallen: Purity ring?? Ummm...can you use it in a sentence? I'm not familiar of which you speak. LOLZ But no seriously if I could find the damn thing to begin with it is definitely being thrown into the trash, and hell yes I need some ink!!!
Sofia: No, but before I read this, I was considering getting a tattoo in the most non sexy place on my body, but after being warped into Rock Me I may just change my placement for the hell of it. Under/on/side boob? By my....danger zone? Hmm. I just need to make sure I remember to wax!
*Darkfallen clears throat* go with the danger zone...
 
Greta: This was your first Erotica book. Do you have any complaints about the lack of romance, and the overwhelming amount of sex? How would you compare this to watching porn?
 
Darkfallen: I don't have any complaints about reading this book....okay maybe one. That I am utterly addicted to it! This is what I meant by "the devil wears a Greta Mask," and goddess help me I think I love the Devil! LOLZ I didn't really feel like it lacked in the romance. I mean yes we did get pretty much down to business, but there was still a story behind it. As for how this compares to porn? It blows porn out of the window. I mean anything is better than "Hey did someone order a pizza?" then bow chicca bow bow. LMAO
Sofia: Well since it was an Erotica book, I went into knowing the author wasn't going to paint a lovey dovey romance picture for me. More like a pantyless picture;) This is NOT my first erotica/mature content story I've read. My mind was already raped with these descriptive words, so I wasn't as shocked or surprised as I thought I was going to be. I still kept an eye on who was around while reading it. I'll think twice before I decide to read it in my university's library. What was I thinking?

Greta: You poor thing! Did you feel dirty while reading this book with the lights on? Did you ever look over your shoulder to make sure no one was watching while you read about meat whistles, and sweater puppies?

Darkfallen: Ummm did I feel dirty? Well let me put it to ya this way. On several occasions I lay reading this in bed, and even though it was only 30 something degrees outside, I was burning up. Resulting in stripping of blankets, and when that proved to not be enough I lost my shirt. End result: A girl wearing panties and a bra, blushing from head to toe, laptop on her lap, and I was still hot!
Sofia: Let's just say I jumped every time I heard a noise in my house. I jumped when I heard the mailman outside stuffing my mail! I'm not ashamed to read Rock Me, I mean it's really good, but I wouldn't want my 8 yr old sister coming up behind me asking what a "Dutch Rudder" is. LOLZ

Greta: Are there more Erotica books in your future, or did this one scare you back into the land of PG-13?

Darkfallen: Yea well about that....did I mention that I'm addicted? That Greta as awakened the beast within? Just ask me about a book called Backstage Pass that I devoured a few days ago! *wink wink*
Sofia: I think there could be more Erotica books in my future. I don't read it to feel horny or because I refuse to go out and buy a porno, when I could read something like one minus the guilt. I certainly wouldn't put these books on my shelf in my room, but more like under my pillow, or tucked under my seat in my car in case I'm stuck in traffic :)

Hope you enjoyed our journey in Erotica!
Now tell us about your. Have you taken the plunge?

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh: A Review

Last Thrusday I kicked off an awesome giveaway!
For those of you that have yet to enter, never fear, there is still time! Just follow the link below:)
(accepting entries until Thrusday April 21st)

So I figure it's only right to post my review of this little piece of awesome that I have for grabs.

Grab a copy at your local indie, or Amazon today!

Synopsis borrowed from Goodreads:

And the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting






On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
...moreAnd the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting
On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
Shall be lifted - nevermore!


--from "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe



Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game.

Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind.

Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Review:

This book is without a doubt one of the BEST books I've read....as in EVER!! SQUEEEE!!!


I'm not sure that I am going to be able to do this review justice but here goes...

Isobel is your basic blond popular cheerleader. She has your typical varsity football playing boyfriend. That is until she gets partnered to do an english project with your typical highschool goth outcast, only he's not so typical. As relectant as they both are to work together on this Isobel starts to realize that she is fighting feelings for him after she has stand up for him when her boyfriend does the "jock" thing and terrorizes Varen at work.

I don't want to give anything away so I'm just gonna leave you with this...

In a world where apparences aren't everything. Nothing is what it seems. The line between reality and nightmare collide. Throw in a little Poe. Blooms an unlikey romance that will leave you speachless, breathless, and begging for more...

Yes yes I am aware that I am being cryptic. I just can't help it. This book as left me speachless in the BEST of ways. So do yourself a favor, and just trust me on this. I'll be waiting for you in the land of the Speachless. LOLz ;)

As per my usual: Buy it, rent it, borrow it, steal it if you have to, but you have got to READ THIS BOOK!! Trust me;)




Thursday, April 14, 2011

Get To Know Me Through Books Givaway!!!

That's right you guessed it...

It's time for Paranormal Wasteland's first ever
GIVEAWAY!!!!

What is "Get to know me through books?"
I thought you would never ask *winks*

 Many of you may or may not know this is my first ever blog. Yep yep that's right I'm a new proud momma to this here wasteland.
*wipes happy tears*

Just last Thursday I introduced myself and Paranormal Wasteland into the wonderful world of blogging. For those of you that missed it check out The Girl Behind The Mask by clicking here to get better aquainted. You will quickly see that I'm a rambler. Yes, yes I know it, but refuse to change. LOLz

You will also learn other things about me, like for instence I have a serious reading addiction. I understand the first step to recovery is acceptance, but I assure you there is no recovery in site, nor do I want one ;)

Oops I'm rambling again!
Let's get back on track shall we?

Yes, yes, right here we go.

For me at least, the books we read, the ones that haunt us, the ones we want to chain up under lock and key and never let go off, says alot about who we are as a person.

So without further ado let me introduce you to the books that I not only want to keep under lock and key, but that have also locked a piece of me inside them as well. Seriously I would probably tuck them under my pillow at night, if I didn't think the hubz would have me committed for it.

*drum roll*

This book has left me searching, hoping, praying, for the strength to make it until the next book comes out. We all know that Edgar Allen Poe was a amazingly dark and twisted piece of awesome, and how Kelly Creagh weaved that awesomeness into this book will leave you breathless....and maybe a little scared of the dark. *winks*
It goes without saying that waiting for the next installment is breaking me to pieces.

This next book also dwells in the dark recesses of the paranormal wasteland.
Can you tell I like the dark corners?

So last but certainly not least I bring you.....
In this book Brenna Yovanoff paints a dark and twisted world below the city of Gatin. This is a great changeling book, and the House of Mayhem will take you through all sorts of nightmariss monsters, but in the end Yovanoff will suprise you, and leave you feeling for these creatures. While I am midwest born and raised, my family is mostly from the south. As most of you know southerns have a thing or two for superstions. My great grandmother was no exception to that. She passed those beliefs on to me, and you will see some of that in this book. Yes this is again another scary book, but there is some awesome music involved too. She describes it so well that even though you know the songs and singers don't actually exsist, you need to buy it anyways! No seriously I contacted her after reading this asking for downloads. It was that good, but unfortunately it was all a figment of Yovanoff's amazing imagination.

Not only do both of these books hae a Tim Burton esque quality to them they share something else in common as well. Can you guess what it is??
Ok, ok I'll tell ya.
They are both debut books for these authors! So keep your eyes peeled for their next books.

The fact that these two books affect me the way they do says alot about me. In the spirit of getting to know each other one lucky winner will get a copy of both books.

What do you have to do to enter for a chance at this big bowl of awesome sauce!?!
Well that's easy peesy;)

First of course you have to be a follower to enter.....then simply leave a comment below asnswering the following question:
What book do you think best reflects your personality?

Of course sharing is caring so spreading the word on facebook and twitter will earn you extra points!!
Please also leave you email address in the comment as well that way I will be able to let you know if you win.

Now that I've bared my book soul I can't wait to see yours!
This contest will run from April 14th-April 21st
I will announce the winner Friday April 22nd!!

LYMI
Love You Mean It

Darkfallen

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Darkfever by Karen Moning: A Review

Buy it now at your local indie or on Amazon

I started this book because my good pal Danny over at Bewitched Bookworms is madly, and completely in love with this series.




As a general rule: If Danny loves it, then I love it.



Well....I am sad to say that I just didn't get into this book as much as she did. I did like it, but there was things that just bothered me to no end.



Summary 

Mackayla is just your typical 22 yr. old party girl. She doesn't take life to seriously. Working at her local bar, hanging with friends, sun bathing by the pool, and knows more about the color of nail polish than a girl should, in my opinion.
Her life was perfect. It was easy....and then the phone rang. Nothing would ever be the same after that day. The day Alina died. The day that stemmed a series events, unraveling Macs life one detail at a time. The world would never be as simple as the world she thought she knew...
Pros:

Moning paints a great new world of darkness lurking in plain site. I love the idea that there is both good and bad fae. I love the setting in Dublin and the "dark zone." I even love Barrons and all his bras, stone cold comments. What can I say I fall for the bad boys with secrets, and no answers. It must be that element of danger that I like so much. *winks*

And Barrons has DANGER written all over him.
Cons:

While over all I think this story is going to turn out to be great, epic even. (I've heard the next book is waaaayyyy better) This book just didn't quite live up to my expectations. I guess my main problem was with Mac. She was just sooo superficial at times, alot of times, that I thought I was going to lose it. I mean seriously why do I care that you are wearing Iceberry Pink nail polish, or Guys-like-pink lipstick?
Then again maybe that is just me, considering the fact that I have NO idea what the name of my nail polish is, but if I was to guess I would say something like Ravens Flock At Night? And that's when I actually wear it. SO I mean I'm just not that into the super girly stuff lolz.
Ok so that was pretty much my only complaint, but it happened so often that i simply couldn't over look it. That's why this is getting only 3 stars from me.
Giving credit where it's due:

I do have to say though that at the very end when Mac steps up to the plate and kicks some serious butt....yea that was pretty much awesome, and I am hoping I will see more of that Mac in books to come. That's a Mac that I could get used to!!
Bottom line I am looking forward to seeing where this goes from here, and now I'm off to read the next installment!

3 stars





Saturday, April 9, 2011

My Adventure Into Streampunk

I usually stick to the YA genre, even though I am finding myself branch out more and more lately;)
So a couple of months ago One Pushy Fox posted a blog asking for help. She wanted to branch out and see what all this Steampuck tom foolery was about. This was the first I had ever heard the word Steampunk.
I was immediately intrigued, and to show you how slow I can be sometimes, I thought it had something to do with punk music.
*facepalms*
So I thought to myself I like punk music, he he he
I then offered to hold Pushy's hand and take the journey with her into the world of Steampunk. Under one condition.
That I go into it COMPLETELY blind.
No researching Steampunk
No reading synopsis
No scouring through GR
NO Nada.
Pushy gladly excepted my offer, and with the help of the awesome followers over at BewitchedBookworms, she picked Soulless by Gail Carriger.

One thing lead to another, I quickly learned that Steampunk & Punk are 2 totally different types of awesome sauce, and also that I have a thing for hot, brooding, Scottish wolfy's, who like their women feisty, and use the word arss instead of ass when the get mad. And oh are they ever so smexy when their mad.
*waggles eyebrows*
And just so we are clear one thing really did lead to another, if you know what I mean! *wink wink* I was completely blown away. Probably mostly because I had only ever read YA at this point, and sex scenes is something I hadn't been exposed to. Lady's and Gentleman this series not only stole my "virginity", so to speak, but it unhinged a passion for a new genre of books that I didn't even now existed.
It wasn't long before I devoured the entire series, and now I sit waiting patiently for the next book!

So without further ado here is my review for the first 3 books in the series of wonderment:)))
Soulless by Gail Carriger
In the beginning I found myself saying "Oh Kaycee what have you gotten yourself into," but I pushed on. I am So So So glad I did. The first 100 pages or so was a little rough for me for no other reason than I didn't understand everything I was reading. To my surprise this book is set during the Victorian era and thus written as such. While we are lucky that I speak American English, but old proper English not so much. lolz However I found myself catching on and even when I didn't, I simply didn't care. This story is filled with awesomeness and the pages will start flying I promise you. So lets get on with it shall we?!




Miss Alexia Tarabotti is a lot of things. A spinster, of Italian descent due to her late father, quite a stubborn women, and most importantly soulless. Also a trait from her father. Being soulless leaves her with the ability to cancel out the powers of the supernatural simply through touch. It's a good thing too, because Miss Tarabotti often doesn't know how to keep her mouth shut. In a time where women are meant to be seen and not heard her mouth often finds her in trouble. Especially with Lord Maccon, Earl of Woosley, the alpha of the Woosley werewolves, and the head of BUR.

Everything goes array when an unregistered vampire tries to attack Miss Tarabotti. Alexia being the strong willed women she is fights back and kills him, but that only leaves a trail of questions. Who was this unregistered vampire? Why was he so starved to attack an unwilling donor? Most importantly how is it possible that he didn't know what Alexia is?

The story unravels from there with many twists and turns along the way. You will find ghost, vampires (some more flamboyant than others lol), mad scientist, and of course the most Delicious romance. Oh yes there will be nakedness!! *fans herself* I am definitely going to be reading Changeless to see where Miss Tarabotti heads next.



Now that I have your attention I will leave you with this....



Buy it, borrow it, rent it, steal it if you have to, but you have to READ this book!!



Don't look down and jump into Steampunk! You'll thank me later;)

Spoiler alert!! While the spoilers are minimal, if you haven't read Soulless then reading the following, might give something away. Continue at your own risk ;) 

And then came Changeless...


Ok Ok Ok before anyone has a mild panic attack, seeing how this series seems to only attract 5 stars, my rating is more like 4 1/2.




Synopsis borrowed from Goodreads

Alexia Tarabotti, the Lady Woosley, awakens in the wee hours of the mid-afternoon to find her husband, who should be decently asleep like any normal werewolf, yelling at the top of his lungs. Then he disappears-leaving her to deal with the regiment of supernatural soldiers encamped on her doorstep, a plethora of exercised ghosts, and an angry Queen Victoria.

But Alexia is armed with her trusty parasol, the latest fashions, and an arsenal of biting civility. Even when her investigations take her to Scotland, the backwater of ugly waistcoats, she is prepared: upending werewolf pack dynamics as only the soulless can.

She might even find time to track down her wayward husband, if she feels like it.



Alexia does not disappoint in this second installment. She is just as bossy, pushy, and feisty as ever. But I guess you would have to be if you were living with a pack of wolves. There is no doubt that she is the Alpha female, even considering her soulless state. When she puts her stubborn mind to a task there is no doubt that she will see it through. Always just barely escaping death in the progress, of course!I truly admire this women. While she is all dolled up in huge frilly dresses, and unbreathably tight corsets, totting around her parasol/weapon taking on vampires, wolves, ghost, and scientist; she always manages to make me laugh out loud during the process.



Mrs. Carriger as a way with giving you the right amount of action, suspense, paranormal, and romance. Then she somehow takes it all and covers it with humor. It is refreshing and addicting. There is no doubt that you will be left wanting more. I never would have thought that I would have heard myself say that about a book based in the 1800's. This from a girl that loathes black and white movies, but I can't help it I uber loves this series!!



This book has the right amount of humor and action. To my surprise, even the right amount of heartache at the end. It didn't get a perfect score from me, because there were times I felt like there was a little to much filler. Things I didn't necessarily need to, or care to know, flooding the pages. Aside from that I really enjoyed this book and I am getting ready to start the next.



I am not usually a spoiler bunny but i have to get this out...if you wanna see this spoiler click here


And lastly we have Blameless
And can I just say this is my favorite cover so far!!

Homicidal mechanical ladybugs, maniacal dogs named Poche, cocky/hero werewolfs, evil holy Templars, and Alexia's trusty parasol...where does one begin?




After Lord Jackass (opps I mean Lord Maccon) casts Alexia out on her own she is forced to move back in with her family. As if that wasn't punishment enough, for a crime she didn't commit no less, after the press got wind of said offense her own family turned her out as well. It doesn't take long for Alexia to determine she is mostly wanted dead by the entire vampire community, a fact they made perfectly clear with the most unpleasant surprise of attack ladybugs. I know it sounds kinda cheesy, and in most cases it would be, but this was fantastically funny!



The vampires are apparently afraid of what Alexia has come to refer to as, the infant-inconvenience, and are willing to go to great lengths to see her killed. Even though Alexia is no longer under the protection of the pack she is no stranger to people wanting her dead. She decides the best course of action is to find out why the vampires are so upset about her delicate situation. Armed with her trusty parasol, and accompanied by Floote and Madame LeFoux, she sets out to Italy.



"It is a strange world, she ruminated, wherein one finds oneself surrounded by Italians in nightgowns carrying French guns mollified by the English to kill supernaturals."



As far as action is concerned this book stands up to the challenge. It is full of action, humor, suspense, and even a few tears. I was a little disappointed at the lack of romance. I was glad to see Connell come around to his senses, but I just wished it had happened a little sooner. He spent most of this book sloshed because her was depressed. When I finished Changeless I was so SO hurt and mad at him for how he treated Alexia. I mean seriously who wouldn't be? So in the beginning I took pleasure in seeing him beat himself up. I even started to feel pity for him. Yea I know it surprised me too! I just wished, say around page 200, he would have sobered up, and fled to Alexia. I just would have like a little more graveling. Now that might be me just being bitter that I didn't get to see him naked quit as often as I would have liked, but hey who could blame me;)



I did love how I got a closer look into most of the secondary characters. I always knew their was something up with Mr. Floote, and while the author doesn't quite tell you what that is just yet, she does reinforce my suspicions. Madame LeFoux probably surprised me the most. When I first met her in Changeless I never trusted her. Not even in the end, but by the end of this one she has gained my trust. Don't get me wrong she is still mysterious, but I really expected to turn out on the bad side. It cracks me up how she makes little comments about her interest in Alexia. She doesn't try to hide the fact that she has romantic feelings for her. Something about it just makes their relationship perfect.



Then there is Lyall. Oh Lyall what can I say. You are witty and entertaining. It seems like no matter what gets thrown at you, you always overcome the challenge. Simply put I heart you. I wish you would give in and find some romance soon! PLEASE...lolz



Overall this book was everything to be expected and a great continuation of the story. I will be looking forward to the next installment. prays for a little more naked Connell hint hint;)

I hope you enjoyed my journey into this amazing genre!
All in all I give this series 4 1/2 stars!!

Oh Wait I almost forgot!!!
Theres more......Heartless(The Parasol Protectorate, #4) will be coming out July 1st, 2011!!

Squeeeeeeeeeeeee I am so excited!!!!

Friday, April 8, 2011

Leftovers by Laura Wiess: A Review

Synopsis borrowed from Goodreads


Blair and Ardith are best friends who have committed an unforgivable act in the name of love and justice. But in order to understand what could drive two young women to such extreme measures, first you'll have to understand why. You'll have to listen as they describe parents who are alternately absent and smothering, classmates who mock and shun anyone different, and young men who are allowed to hurt and dominate without consequence. You will have to learn what it's like to be a teenage girl who locks her bedroom door at night, who has been written off by the adults around her as damaged goods. A girl who has no one to trust except the one person she's forbidden to see. You'll have to understand what it's really like to be forgotten and abandoned in America today.




Are you ready?







So first and foremost let me start by saying, this is a product of Because Great Said So. Since I have no real idea what I am doing, I can't seem to figure out how to post this to that page as a New Post, without adding it to, or erasing the old post.
*shakes fist at computer*
You may have one this time, but don't get all cocky, I will conquer you!!
Yep yep thats right I talk to my computer, who in the past two days as gone from my bff, to Lex Luther status. (you know evil, twisted, and uber aggravating, but you still love him)
Oh crap! There I go off the deep end again. Here take this life vest.....sorry about that;)
So without further ado lets move one shall we?
 
When Greta told me I needed to read this, I jumped at it. As per usual I am so SO SO glad I did. But lets get something straight. When Greta tells me to read something, I do it, and then I usually feel a little dirty afterwards. *waggles eyebrows* If ya know what I mean. This book also left me feeling a bit dirty, but
NOT NOT NOT
in the way that you think. I feel worn raw by the sheer truth in all this.
 
Laura Wiess takes us on a journey into the lifes of teenagers Blair and Ardith. She takes you to a place that is dark, yet you still are able to find disturbing humour. This book is an unspoken truth of our youth. A big lump usual found hidden under the rug, now lies scattered across the floor for all the world to see....
 
Blair and Aridith are bff's. The bond that makes their friendship stronger, also seems to the misery that pulls them apart. Blair is the rich kid, who's parents believe that appearances are EVERYTHING. Blair is just an appearance, not a loved daughter as she should be, do not confuse the two. Blair spends most her time all alone in her big cold house, unless of course Ardith rescues her from her solitude.
 
Aridith is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks.Also not to be confused with the bad seed, because she is anything but. She spends all of her time at school working hard to get away from the stain on society, that is her family. While at home the parties are endless, the pervs know no boundaries, and the' keg squats in the corner, like the resident trolll. Aridith knows a world where little girls sleep with padlocks on the inside of their bedroom door, because you never know when being his daughter will stop being enough to keep his hands at bay. Ardith keeps Blair away from her stained home life at all cost, but when Christmas rolls around, and Blair is left alone, you can't leave the drunken house so you invite her over. Nothing was the same after that. Life's were changed, friendships strained, and consequences must be paid.
Revenge is a dish best served cold, because as you will see, sometimes in order to pay the piper others will have to be sacrificed.....
"You've both outgrown the girls you were defending, and the ones that stand in their place are now armed with powerful, adult-sanctioned weapons. Tomorrow. The end will mark the beginning.
 
I know I'm leaving you hanging, but I mean isn't that kinda the point?! But before I go I will give you a glimpse into this story with a quote from Ardith that just really stuck with me, in a so true, haunting kind of way.
"Time is not your friend. It doesn't care if you live fast or die slow, if you aren't or if you aren't. It was here before you arrived and will go on after you leave. Time doesn't care who wins or who loses, if your life span is empty, honorable or shameful. Time is indifferent. It simply doesn't give a shit."
 
Overall I give this 4 out of 5!!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Leftovers by Laura Wiess

I am currently reading Leftovers by Laura Wiess.
This is a result of Because Greta Said So, so do yourself a favor, pick it up, and check it out!
I would love to hear what you think!!



Girl Behind the Mask


Welcome to my bliggity blog!!
I am new at this, so here goes nothing;)

I hope that you will find this a place to mingle and have fun. A place to meet others, who like you, find a great escape with a book in their hands. For all of us out there who chose reading over therapy, I mean who wouldn't right, this one is for you:)

So without further ado lets meet this girl behind the mask shall we?

Ummm so things you need to know about me....I read almost constantly. Lets just say it calms the OCD. While you might think OCD translates into a crazy clean house, think again. It doesn't! But gawd help ya if you put dishes in my dishwasher without scrubbing them first. LOLZ
I seem to only find peace in the madness, so it's safe to say that I send most of my time in a state of chaos. Don't get me wrong it is a controled chaos, but chaos none the less. So if you have minute, pull up a seat, sit on the floor, and stay awhile. Don't worry if you ever fear that your getting lost in my world, trust me it happens, I have a life vest around here somewhere. *looks around the rubble* Where did I put that thing?
He he he see what I mean? Chaos;)
anyways.....where were we?

Oh yea right

When I am not reading I'm writing, killing myself on the elliptical, running around like the mad hater trying catch the tornado, also know has my 2 yr old son Lucas, and oh yea working. Did ya notice that I didn't put sleeping in there? Yea I don't do that...sleep that is. Sleep is an elusive creature. So we have made an agreement, I don't try to find it, and it doesn't try to find me;)Besides sleep is overrated.

I have a serious addiction to reading. But hey at least I can admit that I have a problem:) The hubz swears I need a 12 step program but why on earth would I want a silly little thing like that, when I can blog instead?! Yes I am aware that I am slightly twisted, so if I confuse you I apologize now.

Oh yea I also keep an awesome arsenal of booky friends in my pocket. Pushy, Cutie, and Danny, who you can find over at bewitchedbookworms.com (only the best blog ever) Thanx for all the help and support that I am sure I am gonna be driving you bananas with till I get this all together. And then of course I save the best for last, my partner in crime Greta. She is truly made of wonderment, no really she will make you wonder...lolz;) If you guys are really good boys and girls, and you get lucky, she just might grace you with her presence from time to time. Just a warning: Don't read her post while eating, while they tend to induce uncontrollable laughter, and I would hate to see you choke to death;) If all goes well I will for sure have a spot called "because Greta says so"
Yep that's right I do what she says!!!

Again thanx for stopping by and I really look forward to getting to know all of you. Feel free to shoot me an email or drop a comment or two. I promise I always respond. my OCD dictates that I check my email hundreds of times a day lol