Share The Book You're Most Thankful For.....

When I was 9, my Dad took me to see The Neverending Story at the movies.

I eagerly watched Bastian read about Fantasia, a mystical land which desperately needs a hero to save it from destruction.

I also feel in love (for the first time ever) with Atreyu ♥

A few years later, when I about 13, I found the book The Neverending Story by Michael Ende in my school library.

I had never been so engrossed by storybook characters before in my life. 

Yes the movie had been great but the book just blew my mind. 

It was while reading The Neverending Story that I realised how much more powerful words were than pictures.

And I feel in love with Atreyu all over again ♥♥♥

Its thanks to the beautiful and fanciful world that Michael Ende created that I fell in love with books (and leading men!!!)

Beth Revis is having an ULTIMATE giveaway over on her blog and you really need to check it out

 

 

That's right!

One person will win 19 signed books, a box of Turkish Delight, and a metric ton of swag and book goodies!

There's also going to be four runner-up prizes

 

So what are you waiting for head on over to 

 http://bethrevis.blogspot.com/2011/10/show-gratitude-for-booksand-win-19.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+WritingItOut+%28writing+it+out%29

Guest Book Review: The Tiptoe Guide To Tracking Fairies by Ammi-Joan Paquette

Title: The Tiptoe Guide To Tracking Fairies

Author: Ammi-Joan Paquette

Illustrator: Christa Unzner

Release Date: April 25th 2009

Publisher: Tanglewood Press

Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley

What better way to celebrate the wonderful world of nature all around us than a hunt for local fairies? Children learn to spot the tell-tale signs of fairies in residence in this delightful mix of photos and illustrations. Then children can take their tracking skills outside to discover the magic in their own backyard. A perfect book for spring or summer!

My Thoughts 

This is another book I got for my nine year old daughter to read over the school holidays.

She happily read this to her four year old sister.

The following thoughts are entirely her own with no editing (bar spelling) from me.

I enjoyed this book.

I did like it but I don't think its good enough for my age, but my sister liked it heaps.

Its more a little kids book but good for big kids to read to little kids.

The fairies are kind of cute too.

3 Stars

Guest Book Reviewer: Cloudberry Castle by Janey Louise Jones

Title: Cloudberry Castle - Ballet School Secrets

Author: Janey Louise Jones

Release Date: November 1st 2011

Publisher: Floris Books

Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley

Katie Mackenzie, who is crazy for ballet, and her family have opened the Cloudberry Castle School of Dance. Living at the school should be great-there are lots of girls with whom to make friends, a new ballet teacher has arrived from the Scottish Ballet, Katie can dance all day, and her mother is her ballet teacher. However, when posh girl Leo arrives with her chauffeur and trendy diet, she threatens to ruin everything. Leo might be spoiled rotten but she's a brilliant dancer-perhaps even better than Katie.

Will Leo out-dance Katie and get to play the lead role of Princess Aurora in the Christmas performance of The Sleeping Beauty? As the dance drama unfolds, Katie and her friends discover the statue of a little ballerina in the castle's grounds. Could it lead them to uncover more of Cloudberry Castle's hidden secrets?

This is the second story about Katie's ballet adventures at Cloudberry Castle, full of gorgeous girly charm. 

My Thoughts

So we've just had 2 weeks school holidays here in New Zealand and as any mother knows, it can sometimes be a mission to keep the kids entertained.

My nine year old daughter, who struggles at school, has shown an interest in books just recently and so I thought it might encourage her if she got to read and review a book before it hit the shelves.

And what do you know, she loved the idea!

The following thoughts are entirely her own with no editing (bar spelling) from me.

I really enjoyed Cloudberry Castle The Ballet School Secrets book. 

I liked the part when it was the big show. 

I didn't like when Tilda badly twisted her ankle, that hurt a lot.

All the people are interesting characters and its exciting.

I would really want to read more of these books.

5 Stars

Q&A With Guest Author Giles Paley-Phillips

The Fearsome Beastie Blog Tour

Before I introduce my very special guest author Giles Paley-Phillips, lets get to know him a bit more by reading his bio (courtesy of his blog page)

Giles was born in East Sussex in 1977 and grew up on the south coast. He neglected his education to pursue a career in music. He spent a number of years performing extensively around the UK, including slots at the Glastonbury festival. In 2006 Giles released a collection of lyrics and poems in aid of Leukemia Research, a charity dear to his heart, having lost his mother to the disease when he was six. After the birth of his first son, and a chance encounter with a collection of nonsense poetry by Shel Silverstein in a charity shop, he was inspired to turn his attention to Children’s writing. His debut picture book 'THE FEARSOME BEASTIE' CAME OUT IN MAY(Maverick Books) followed later in 2011 by THE THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT DINOSAURS which will be published by Gullane in a collection of nonsense poetry THERE IS A LION IN MY BATHROOM (Rebel books 2010, with proceeds going to Leukemia Research) and is OUT NOW in all good bookshops Giles still lives in Seaford with his wife, Michelle, and their two sons, Elijah and Sonny.

Welcome to My Book Chatter Giles, and thank you for being my very first guest author.

I have to say that my girls and I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Fearsome Beastie together. (You can read the review here)

Where did the idea or inspiration for TFB come from, and how long did it take to write?

The story was inspired my two son's desire to play hiding under blankets from monsters. Writing the story took about a day, but tweaking and refining it took a lot longer.

The illustrator, Gabriele Antonini has done a beautiful job with the pictures in this book, they're just gorgeous. Did you have any input into the look of your ‘Beastie’?

Not really, I saw an initial colour sketch and it looked great.

My Miss 4 thinks that The Fearsome Beastie is naughty and shouldn’t eat children!! If you were a Fearsome Beastie, what would you eat? 

I would eat Pork Pies! 
(insert sigh here....I miss pork pies something fearful nom nom!!!---Cath)

You’ve had some success with your band Burnthouse in the past and I know you wrote song lyrics. When did you realise that you wanted to write children’s books and was it an easy transition? 

It was when my first son was born, I just wanted to write for him, but it took a while to figure it out.

What have been the biggest challenges and/or surprises you’ve faced as a writer?

I find editing extremely hard.

Do you have any plans to write or would you consider writing a novel for adults?

Not for adults, but I would like to write something for older children

Who are some of your favourite authors and what books do you have on your ‘to be read’ pile?

In children's literature I love the work of Roald Dahl, Shel Silverstein and Brian Selznick. In adult books, I really like, Chuck Palahniuk, David Glen Gold and Bret Easton Ellis.

What are three quirky, interesting, or little known facts you can tell us about yourself?

I got run over by a car when i was 10! 

I ran 400m in my county championships, I'm tee total!

Is there anything else you’d like to add that we haven’t touched on yet? 

I have two books out The Fearsome Beastie and There's A Lion In My Bathroom!
 
Be sure to check out the rest of the tour for more surprising information and tidbits :)

If you would like more information about Giles and/or his books, here are some links that may interest you:

Author's Blog: http://gilespaleyphillips.blogspot.com/ 

Author's facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/giles.paleyphillips

Author's Goodreads Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3195778.Giles_Paley_Phillips?origin=

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/tenderbranson10

Publisher's Website: http://www.maverickbooks.co.uk/books/the-fearsome-beastie/

Fearsome Beastie Activity Page: http://www.maverickbooks.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Fearsome-Beastie1.pdf

Book Review: Journey by Mireille Chester

Title: Journey (The Chosen One Trilogy #2)

Author: Mireille Chester

Release Date: May 16th 2011

Publisher: Baico Publishing Inc.

Source: Received from the author for an honest review

Hayden has made up her mind. If she doesn't pick sides between the Namaels and the Majs then innocent beings won't die because of her. Of course, things can never be that simple and when she's taken prisoner by the humans, a whole new problem arises. It doesn't take long before everything she thought she knew no longer makes sense. 

Could it be possible that the prophecy was wrong...

My Thoughts

I thought that Part 1 in this series was great and was hoping that Part 2 would match it.

Boy was I wrong....Journey is better!!!

As Hayden became more confident in the strange and wonderful world of Quelondain, so too did the author by thrusting more interesting twists and surprises in Hayden and Jasper's way.

You think you know where this tale is leading and then you are thrown another curve ball to wrap your mind around.

I loved this fast paced and intriguing story so much I barely left the comfort of my bed from start to finish.

I am consumed with love and wonder for all the immensely gorgeous characters and their quest for peaceful and happy lives.

I am chafing at the bit to read Part 3

An un-put-downable 5 Star read ~<;]  

Book Review: Crossover by Mireille Chester

Title: Crossover (The Chosen One Trilogy #1)

Author: Mireille Chester

Release Date: 16th May 2011

Publisher: Baico Publishing Inc.(originally published by the author via Smashwords)

Source: Received from the author for an honest review

Life for Hayden Carlson had never been overly exciting and that was the way she liked it, so when she meets Jasper on a trail in the woods, it never occurs to her that life as she knows it is about to change.
Suddenly, Hayden crosses over to a world she never would have dreamed existed and a future she never would have believed possible. Along the way, she discovers an affinity for magic; her ability to dream of the future and the craft of healing. She meets many beings that become her friends and family, as well as others who will try to capture her for her powers.
Hayden must find a way to escape being captured, save the man she loves, and decide where she stands in the balance of good and evil.

My Thoughts

I wasnt sure if this book would be my cup of tea or not.
But it would seem that my cup of tea has been doing a lot of changing just recently. 

This is not your average romance, nor is it an ordinary fantasy novel.

The tale that the author has woven is a totally engrossing one.
Not only is it filled with an imaginative and colourful world but the characters are unique and intriguing.
A lot of effort has been put into the world building and back stories for Crossover. 
The descriptions are rich, the characters are extremely likeable, and the relationships are believable.
The twists and turns are exciting and the sparks that fly in and out of the bedroom between Hayden and Jasper are a refreshingly real take on a relationship (God knows relationships are never perfect!!)

I have thoroughly enjoyed the first book of this series and am looking forward to reading the next installment.
An enticing 4 Star read ;]

Book Review: Mine Until Dawn by E.B Walters

Title: Mine Until Dawn (The Fitzgerald Family #2)

Author: E.B Walters

Release Date: July 20th 2011

Publisher: Firetrail Publishing

Source: Purchased by me

She's armed with a new attitude and a kick-ass wardrobe....

By age twenty-eight, art historian Jade Fitzgerald has had a marriage from hell and an equally nasty divorce, worked hard to control her weight and her arrhythmia. The last thing she needs is another man messing with her head or shooting her heartbeat off course. That is exactly what she gets when an aloof and mysterious stranger storms into her life.

He's cynical and doesn’t take crap from anyone....

Former investigative reporter Vince Knight is on a quest to recover a priceless, ancient Mayan artifact, which he believes Jade’s mother stole. He’s skilled at gathering information while remaining emotionally detached, until he meets Jade. The voluptuous woman stirs in him a hunger he hasn’t felt in a long time and a protectiveness he can’t explain.

Until, an insane man decides to add Jade to his collection of beautiful and rare things....

Neither Vince nor Jade expects passion to flare so fast or danger to dodge their footsteps. To defeat a ruthless art collector with a twisted agenda, Jade and Vince must learn to trust each other and embrace their growing feelings

My Thoughts 

I enjoyed Book 1 in this series a lot and you can read my review for Slow Burn HERE

I struggled however, to find the same love for Mine Until Dawn.

The storyline was alright but I felt it lacked suspense, and moved rather slowly considering a twisted art collector had sicked his henchmen onto Jade and Vince.

Vince is great as a bad boy turned good bad boy! 

But I just didn't connect with Jade and I found her a bit annoying.

There are some really great moments in this book and the sizzle between the sheets in undeniable, but I just wasn't 'feeling the love' for the book as a whole.

A bit of a bumpy read for me but The Fitzgeralds and Mine Until Dawn gets a solid 3 Stars :]

Book Review: The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

Title: The Pledge (The Pledge #1)

Author: Kimberly Derting

Release Date: November 15th 2011

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books

Source: Received from Simon & Shuster's Galley Grab Program

In the violent country of Ludania, the language you speak determines what class you are, and there are harsh punishments if you forget your place—looking a member of a higher class in the eye can result in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina (Charlie for short) can understand all languages, a dangerous ability she’s been hiding her whole life. Her only place of release is the drug-filled underground club scene, where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. There, she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy who speaks a language she’s never heard, and her secret is almost exposed. Through a series of violent upheavals, it becomes clear that Charlie herself is the key to forcing out the oppressive power structure of her kingdom...

My Thoughts

I have mixed feelings about this book.
On the one hand its a really great story with an interesting new take on social standing and the question of class within our society. 
Its also a more realistic dystopian world than some others I have read.
But the romance between the two leads although interesting, is a little flat. 
And if I'm honest thats the main problem right there. 

The whole book just read flat for me.

Other than the prologue, which really did grab my attention and make me think this book was going to be a great read, I never really had any overly emotional ties to any of the characters or their storylines. 
There is also a lot of story that is never really explained properly and you're pretty much left to flounder within the plot holes.

I liked it, but it was just meh the whole way through sadly.
So only an almost 3 Star read :|

Book Review: Lord of The Vampires by Gena Showalter

Title: Lord of the Vampires (Royal House of Shadows, #1) (Harlequin Nocturne #119)

Author: Gena Showalter

Release Date: August 23rd 2011

Publisher: Harlequin

Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley

Once upon a time…the Blood Sorcerer vanquished the kingdom of Elden. To save their children, the queen scattered them to safety and the king filled them with a need for vengeance. Only a magical timepiece connects the four royal heirs…and time is running out.

Nicolai the Vampire is renowned for his virility, but in a cruel twist of fate “The Dark Seducer” has become a sex slave in the kingdom of Delfina—stripped of his precious timepiece and his memory. All that remains is a primal need for freedom, revenge—and the only woman who can help him.

When the wanton vampire summons Jane Parker, she is helpless to obey. She's drawn to his dark sexuality and into his magical realm. But for this human, all is not a fairy tale. For saving Nicolai could mean losing the only man she's ever craved.

My Thoughts

 

Although I'm not a huge Gena Showalter fan, I found the writing in this book flowed easily and the story itself was refreshing and full of twists and turns.  

I thought the really ugly princess sisters were a barrel of laughs and quite fun to read.

 

I initially didn't like Jane at all. 

For me, she was a hard character to get, and I actually felt she was a little too boring for Nicolai. Luckily she loosened up somewhat towards the middle.

There were only a few sneak peaks into the rest of the characters in this series so you really are left guessing as to how the other books will continue the opening prologue.

Overall, a very enjoyable read and I cant wait to read the stories for Nicolai's siblings. 

4 Stars ;]

And The Winner Is......................

Thanks to everyone that took the time to read my review and leave a comment.

So without further ado, the winner of 'Dream Lover' a Dusty The Demon Hunter novella by D Michelle Gent is commenter #4, a

Thanks again to everyone that took part.

Double Book Review: Zoctornyia Parts 3 & 4 by Beth Wright

Title: Zoctornyia (Vultar's Heart, Body and Soul Mate Part 3)

Author: Beth Wright

Release Date: October 5th 2011

Publisher: Self published

Source: Purchased at Smashwords

There was another contraction and a lot of pressure. All hands are on my legs and arms healing me. Except Vultar's hands are still on my abdomen. More pressure, then Vultar's hands move down and he brings them back up with a baby in them. “Don't stop healing her.” More pressure comes. He hands the baby to his father. Within seconds he is holding another baby. 

My Thoughts

 

The wait to read Part 3 in this series damn near drove me mad. 

Whether it was my temperamental computer or Smashwords being uncooperative, it took me several days to finally be able to purchase the remaining parts to this surprising series.

I really enjoyed this, the third installment of Vultar's Heart, Body, and Soul Mate. 

The story is gripping and emotional and surprisingly tender.

I'm probably repeating all the things I said about Parts 1&2 but hey, its all true.

I really think you'll enjoy both the story and the writing style, its different but very enjoyable. 

Another 5 Star read ~<;]

Title: Zoctornyia (Vultar's Heart, Body and Soul Mate Part 4)

Author: Beth Wright

Release Date: October 8th 2011

Publisher: Self published

Source: Purchased at Smashwords

I hear Vultar laugh softly, then hear his voice in my head. There is a law that no one can touch a leader. What! Crap! I have been breaking that law a lot. Yes, you have. You bad woman, you. I think I will have to punish you later, he says in a playful, seductive way. I giggle then say in a playful tone, “Oh really, what do you have in mind?” They all laugh. 

My Thoughts 

Okay, so somewhere between Part 3 and Part 4, something changed.

I didn't enjoy this one quite so much as I had hoped. 

Although the entire romance between Vultar and Setiana is all a bit of a whirlwind with some very interesting and exciting twists and turns, I just felt that the ending cheapened their story somehow. 

I don't want to give anything away but I will say that I found the new Tellianar arrivals and Setiana's response to them a little slutty, cheap, I dont know, it just left me feeling a little bitter.

As a whole, this series is a riveting and addictive read, but for me, the ending was unsatisfying.

An almost 4 Star read. 

Book Review: The Executive's Decision by Bernadette Marie

Title: The Executive's Decision

Author: Bernadette Marie

Release Date: April 1st 2011

Publisher: 5 Prince Publishing

Source: Received from Honey Bee Promotions for an honest review

Regan Keller fell in love with a wealthy and powerful man once. He was her boss. When that turbulent relationship ended, she swore she'd never again date someone she worked with. That was before she literally fell into her new boss's lap.

Zachary Benson is the head of a successful empire and used to getting what he wants in the boardroom and outside of it; and what he wants is Regan Keller. He's determined to convince Regan that even though he's her boss, they can share a life together.

However, when Regan's past threatens to destroy the architectural firm Zach has invested his entire career in, he has to make an executive decision whether to choose his business or fight for the woman he loves.

My Thoughts 

I really, really loved this book.

It had everything I look for in a great read.

Really well written, full bodied characters.

Interesting back story. Intriguing secondary characters.

Humor, heart break, romance, seduction, sex!

It was easy to read and hard to put down.

The Executive's Decision is a must read for all fans of romance.

You can not ask for more. 

But I will....more Kellers!!

I read the preview of book two in The Keller Family Series and it sounds like a heartrendingly gorgeous read. I'll be first in line when it is released.

A very well deserved 5 Star read ~<;]

Links that may interest you

Author's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorBernadetteMarie

Author's Goodreads page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4046931.Bernadette_Marie?origin=

Author's Blog: http://authorbernadettemarie.blogspot.com/2011/10/quality-trap-of-self-publishing-by-noah.html

Double Book Review: Zoctornyia by Beth Wright

Title: Zoctornyia (Vultar's Heart, Body, and Soul Mate Part 1)

Author: Beth Wright

Release Date: August 20th 2011

Publisher: Self published

Source: Received from the author for an honest review

A whole new world is now being brought to our human race. What will unfold for those who enter into it and who will be there to help teach us on the way. Will one human female named Elizabeth be able to stay alive.

My Thoughts

I have to say that this book is not my usual reading material. I don't usually go for stories that involve alien races that are trying for what ever reason to intermingle with us mere humans.

That being said, I was intrigued by the 'mind speaking' and 'healing qualities' that these strange beings had.
The writing flowed easily and as the story progressed I found myself caught in in this strange tale, enough so that I went ahead and purchased part 2 in this series.

An interesting 3 Star read :]

Title: Zoctornyia (Vultar's Heart, Body, and Soul Mate Part 2) 

Author: Beth Wright

Release Date: September 9th 2011

Publisher: Self published

Source: Purchased from Smashwords

Setiana comes into contact with another race from the world of Zoctornyia. A decision is made to take her from Vultar. Will Vultar lose his Tellianar, or will he win this battle....

My Thoughts

Okay, Part 2 was intriguing, thrilling, suspenseful, fun, mind boggling, different-hang on let me get my thesaurus!!

I loved Part 2 in this exceptionally different tale. 
So much so I'm eager to purchase both Parts 3 & 4.

I literally felt light headed after reading this, I swear I held my breath for most of it.
Zoctornyia (both parts) has been the most surprising read I think I've stumbled upon all year.

I would highly recommend this series to everyone, even if its not your usual read.
You may well be very pleasantly surprised just I have have been.

An intriguingly thrilling 5 Star read ~<;]


Here are some links that may interest you

Zoctoryia facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Zoctornyia-by-Beth-Wright/203724263022821

Beth Wright's Goodreads page http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3974614.Beth_Wright?origin=

Book Review: Interim Blue by Alexia Purdy

Title: Interim Blue (The Teleen Trilogy #1)

Author: Alexia Purdy

Release Date: July 5th 2011

Source: Received  from the author for an honest review

Shade is just trying to graduate high school. Just another ordinary teenager with some quirky talents. One day, the bothersome voices she sometimes hears in her head bring her to a chance meeting with a powerful faerie warrior named Jack. He wields electrical currents and blue fires along his skin. Joining him, she enters the mysterious, frightening and magical world of Faerie, where nothing is what it really seems to be.
Shade is selected by the Seelie Queen to fulfill a quest to obtain a liquid magic that could aid the Guildrin Court of Faeries in an ongoing war against the evil Unseelie Queen and her treacherous Lonares soldiers. Around every corner and across breathtaking landscapes of the world of Faerie that exists alongside our ever so mundane world, Shade grows along with her magic and meets some of the most powerful warriors Faerie has to offer. Shade battles evil dryads, conniving Teleen guards and challenges on her life with every step. In a world where nothing is taken for granted or underestimated, Shade discovers that she might not be as weak as she or others may have perceived.

My Thoughts

Interim Blue is not a safe, boring, rehashing of your every day faerie story.

This tale of the Seelie and Unseelie courts has new and interesting characters, with new and interesting powers.

Yes all the elements of fae that we know and love are there, but with this story, there is more.

Have you ever read a book that reached into your chest and gave your heart a squeeze from the very first page?

Thats what Interim Blue did to me yesterday.

I read the prologue and stopped to scribble in my notebook: heartbreaking, hooked already.

The emotions of those first pages literally seeped from my e-reader and made me all gooey inside.

Shade is a great character. 

Totally normal in every human way you can get. Except of course for the voices in her head. But other than that, you know, totally normal. 

The action starts pretty much right of the mark and there is a lot of intrigue to be had throughout the book. Shade manages to find herself in hot water a lot. She's a bit of a trouble magnet!

I did find the writing a little bumpy, and the story itself lacked a little polish, or the finesse that you may find with other stories of the same vane. 

However, I liked this story much, much more than the raved about stories of fae that I've read recently.

Its gripping, gritty, fresh, and full of 'bad boys' (and girls). 

Some of whom you'll hate and some you will fall a little in love with.

I thought I was over faeries and the like but this is so fresh and vibrant with completely new races of fae that I'm excited to say I cant wait to read more.

I will definately be putting Book 2 in the Treleen Trilogy on my 'to read' list.

A solid 4 Star read ;]

If you want some more information on the author Alexia Purdy, or her books here are a complete of links that may interest you

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Interim-Blue-Teleen-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B005AQ4CJ4/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1

Alexia's Blog http://alexiapurdy.blogspot.com/

Goodreads profile http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5038699.Alexia_Purdy?origin=

Interim Blue facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Interim-Blue-The-Teleen-Trilogy-by-Alexia-Purdy/136515463095840?ref=ts

Review and Giveaway: Dream Lover by D. Michelle Gent

Title: Dream Lover (Dusty The Demon Hunter)

Author: D Michelle Gent

Release Date: August 11th 2011

Publisher: Gingernut Books

Source: Received from the author for an honest review

Dusty is a teenage girl, as normal as any of her friends... the Dryads, Faeries, Nymphs, Angels, Cherubs and half-demons like her.

She has a dark past, her mother was killed by a Demon and now she is protecting herself in case that Demon comes back for her.

In the meantime Dusty travels from this world to the Astral Plane and her adventures are legendary... amongst her friends at least

My Thoughts

I enjoyed this novella but I really wanted more.

I was left feeling a little let down by its shortness but only because the characters are great and we were given quite a bit of background about them which I liked a lot.

In saying that though, it may well have been the authors intention all along. Give us a taste and have us chafing at the bit for the next installment, in which case, job well done!!

Dusty is a kick ass force to be reckoned with, a great strong willed lead character.

I think this series has a ton of potential, and I cant wait to read more. 

An almost 4 Star read for me ;P

THE GIVEAWAY

**The author has very kindly offered up 1 e-copy of Demon Lover to a random commenter on this blog post**

So for your chance to win leave a comment, perhaps a thank you, with a valid email address and one winner will be picked at random next Monday (17th October 2011)

Good luck

Book Review: Ecstasy Untamed by Pamela Palmer

Title: Ecstasy Untamed (Feral Warriors #6)

Author: Pamela Palmer

Release Date: October 25th 2011

Publisher: Avon

Source: Received from the publisher via NetGalley

They are called Feral Warriors—an elite band of immortals who can change shape at will. Sworn to rid the world of evil, consumed by sorcery and seduction, their wild natures are primed for release . . .

Shattered by recent nightmarish events, Hawke feels his bond with his animal spirit weakening—and once it breaks, he’s finished. The arrival of Faith sends his life spinning even further out of control, for although she delights him and enflames his deepest primal passions, she’s promised to Maxim, the newest Feral Warrior.

Faith is drawn to Hawke from the start, but Maxim holds her in his thrall and has secretly bent her to his malevolent will. 

Though gravely damaged, Hawke is the only one who can end Faith’s slavery and protect the Feral Warriors from Maxim’s evil designs. But first they both must embrace the wild . . . and surrender body and soul to a forbidden, all-consuming ecstasy.

My Thoughts

I was so excited to be able to read the latest Feral Warriors installment.
I literally read this book from cover to cover, only stopping for the call of nature and the coffee pot.

Pamela Palmer has created a world of adventure and intrigue like no other, and her diverse array of hero's and heroines are back to full form in Ecstasy Untamed.

I really love Hawke. 
He has a hard time struggling to keep himself in check with both his animal and with Faith, and I was enthralled yet again by the ongoing battle between the warriors and the Daemons. 
If you are familiar with this series the surprising twists and turns in this book will not disappoint. 
It is a fast paced, heart stoppingly gorgeous story that will leave you aching for more. 

One of the best 5 Star reads this year  ~<;]


For more information on The Feral Warriors series and other books by Pamela Palmer check out her website: 
http://www.pamelapalmer.net/enter-world/feral.htm

Book Review: Enticed by His Forgotten Lover by Maya Banks

Title: Enticed by His Forgotten Lover (Pregnancy and Passion #1)

Author: Maya Banks

Release Date: September 1st 2011

Publisher: Harlequin

Source: Received from the publisher via NetGalley


"Have we met?"

Answer: a right hook! Because Bryony Morgan pulls no punches. Even when she's very pregnant and facing down the father of her unborn child. She fell for wealthy hotelier Rafael de Luca when he courted her for her beachfront real estate. Then he disappeared. Now, she's in New York for answers—and she won't accept a brush–off.

But selective amnesia after a crash has Rafael puzzled. How could he ever forget a combustible beauty like Bryony? Solution: return to the island where they met, and relive the unforgettable nights in question—until he remembers everything…

My Thoughts

The great thing about Harlequin Desire books is that you know what you are getting.

A great story written by an awesome author, lovable characters, some tantalizing sex, heartbreak, and then the eagerly awaited HEA.

Yes I know they can sometimes be repetitive and predictable. 

But this is Maya Banks, and she doesnt do boring!!

I really enjoyed these characters.

I'm a sucker for an amnesia addled man, who has to find himself and his love for a women again. And Rafe is so arrogant, and so self assured, it was great to see him be brought to his knees by Bryony. 

The secondary characters were interesting and I'm curious enough to read their stories in this series.

A decent almost 4 Star read.

Book Review: The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark

Title: The Demon Lover (Fairwick Chronicles #1)

Author: Juliet Dark

Release Date: December 27th 2011

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group

Source: Received from the publisher via NetGalley

I gasped . . . or tried to. My mouth opened, but I couldn’t draw breath. . . . His lips, pearly wet, parted and he blew into my mouth. My lungs expanded beneath his weight. When I exhaled he sucked in my breath and his weight turned from cold marble into warm living flesh.

Since accepting a teaching position at remote Fairwick College in upstate New York, Callie McFay has experienced the same disturbingly erotic dream every night: A mist enters her bedroom, then takes the shape of a virile, seductive stranger who proceeds to ravish her in the most toe-curling, wholly satisfying ways possible. Perhaps these dreams are the result of writing her bestselling book, The Sex Lives of Demon Lovers. After all, Callie’s lifelong passion is the intersection of lurid fairy tales and Gothic literature—which is why she finds herself at Fairwick’s renowned folklore department, living in a once-stately Victorian house that, at first sight, seemed to call her name.

But Callie soon realizes that her dreams are alarmingly real. She has a demon lover—an incubus—and he will seduce her, pleasure her, and eventually suck the very life from her. Then Callie makes another startling discovery: He’s not the only mythical creature in Fairwick. As the tenured witches of the college and the resident fairies in the surrounding woods prepare to cast out the incubus, Callie must accomplish something infinitely more difficult—banishing this demon lover from her heart.

My Thoughts

I have to say I really enjoyed this book a lot.

It started off like a Gothic novel, changed into a modern day spooky story slash erotic novel, then some witches and spells were thrown in and then it changed again into a mysterious paranormal romance complete with gnomes, vampires, brownies, daemons, and faeries etc. 

You name it and The Dark Lover had it.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't confused at times but all in all I really got into the story and the variety of characters was a blessing rather than a curse.

I don't want to say too much and give away the story but needless to say there are many twists and turns, strange goings on, and love affairs etc to keep every reader happy.

The quirky little town of Fairwick has peaked my interest and I'll happily read further books in this series.

The Demon Lover easily gets 4 Stars from me.

Note: This was also published by Ebury Press on July 21st 2011 as "Incubus" by Carol Goodman

Book Review: The Call From Within by Eri Nelson

Title: The Call From Within (Dearhart Clan #1)

Author: Eri Nelson

Release Date: July 2nd 2011

Publisher: CreateSpace

Source: Received as a gift from the author

Owen the Pack’s clan leader, has been driven by what is expected of an alpha. Facts that were told through the decades all but look like fiction to him now. So he never dared to believe in fate and only let duty push him forth. Although now his resolve makes no sense and it took little to no time at all in showing him through the lust he feels for another.

Kristen Still bares the imprinted mark to our handsome alpha. However he wasn’t the first to notice what she was and it’s that bedding of prior passions that control her new weakness. Yes, Owen is pushed by jealousy to possess what his four footed insight tells him is his.

A former distraction wanted more than heated moments with Kristen. In her he saw a stronger life force for his young and if Brinston Drake must he would take what he needs from her. He just did not foresee another finding her as well.
 

Another by the name of Wash seeks to use their distractions as his gain. A rogue sent to track and update, Wash is tested by his hatred and desire for revenge. He’ll have it but not as quickly as he would like. But soon enough Owen will slip farther into his madness over a bitch in heat. Then Wash perhaps can use the heated vixen to distract both her and the alpha into their future demise. 

My Thoughts 

This book really doesn't waste any time, and I liked it that way!!

It is mysterious and raunchy, packed full of action, and the characters are interesting and full of life (and Owen is a total babe).

This is more than just your average werewolf story and I cant wait to see what lies ahead for Owen and Kristen and the rest of The Dearhart Clan.

I really enjoyed this fast paced, sexy little novella.  

I was left short of breath and wanting more. More, more, more!!

A sexy 4 Star read ;]

Book Review: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Iron Knight (Iron Fey #4)

Author: Julie Kagawa

Release Date: October 25th 2011

Publisher: Harlequin

Source: The publisher via NetGalley

My name—my True Name—is Ashallayn'darkmyr Tallyn.

I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her.

My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…

My Thoughts

So I'm probably not going to win any fans with this review but hey, thems the breaks.

Considering that The Iron Fey series has become so well loved, and so near and dear to so many teenage (and not so teenage) hearts and that this is reportedly the last in this series I was expecting more, a whole lot more.

While no one can deny that the author's writing style is beautifully lyrical and vivid in its imagery, I have to say I find her story telling weak.

Don't start throwing stones at me yet, let me explain!!

I really did enjoy the first book, The Iron King, very much and really did think that I would love the following books.

Sadly, I found them boring.

And The Iron Knight was no different.

There were no surprises, no twists and turns, nothing to make me gasp and squeal with, shock, sorrow, happiness, etc. It was all very......meh.

For all the trials and tribulations up to this point, I was expecting something spectacular to happen in order for Ash to become human. 

And all I got was a mediocre, predictable, and yes boring, quest that lets be honest, was such a let down I was glad to see it end.

Ahh the ending......I also have problem with the ending.

Three hundred odd pages of tiresome reading and the final coming together of Meghan and Ash......gets a mere handful of pages, really?!!

A very unsatisfying end to what could of been the best book of the four.
I'm struggling to even give it 3 Stars.