A Royal Elf of Abalon by Anna Del C Dye

About the book:

A Royal Elf of Abalon is the latest by author Anna Del C Dye. It is the story of a young girl, Amaria, raised by her mother, the cruel queen Amathis. Amathis jealously hordes her daughters love and attention. When the kingdom is attacked by orks, Amaria is sent to safety. While there, she begins to discover the depth of her mother's cruelty. Upon returning to the kingdom, she meets one of the elves who came to protect the kingdom, Kurzan. Kurzan and Amaria quickly fall in love, though it is a forbidden love.

The story follows Amaria's journey from innocent young princess to wise and loving queen. Amaria quickly becomes a strong, admirable woman who must prove her worthiness to rule. Amaria learns who she can trust, and whose advice to take to heart as she learns to rule. As time goes on, and Amaria tries to discover a way to be with her love, secrets are revealed which may throw Amaria's kingdom into an uproar.

A Royal Elf of Abalon is a wonderful, epic fantasy with a strong heroine who has much to be admired about her. The story sweeps you in, and every time you think you know what is going to happen, Dye takes the story in a new direction to keep you guessing. Amaria and Kurzan's story is heartbreaking and wonderful all at the same time. There are many secondary characters who are equally enthralling. You'll find yourself caught up in their stories as much as Amaria's. Dye's great story is full of all the things that make a book great: forbidden love, intrigue, secrets, wars, elves, orks . . . there is more than enough to grab any readers interest and hold it until the end.

~Cindy Bennett author of the “Geek Girl”

I haven't gotten to read this one yet, so I won't give you my take on it! However, I did have the privilege of interviewing Anna!

Rachel: Hi Anna! Thanks for being in my blog this week.

Anna: It is my pleasure to be here. I love to meet new people.

Rachel: So, tell us what’s happening with you?

Anna: My life has been quite busy lately. I am getting ready for the “Renaissance Faire & Fantasy Festival” which will take three of my weekends in May. I take my books and have fun being a princess for three weeks. I really love it.

Rachel: That does sound fun. Tell us about your upcoming release.

Anna: After the great success of “The Curse of the Elfs,” I’ll release: “A Royal Elf in Abalon” this May.

Rachel: That’s great news! Where can we find this book?

Anna: Amazon, B&N, and my website will all have the links to buy it.

Rachel: What inspired you to write this book?

Anna: Amathis, the queen in the story. She is a selfish, demanding, and cruel woman. She forced me to write it.

Rachel: The mean ol’ thing! (secretly smiling) What fantasy bug bit you and got you started writing these mystical tales?

Anna: It was a great masterful bug and it bit me hard a few years ago—The name of the bug J. R. R. Tolkien. I love Lord of the Rings and that is my inspiration for my Elf Series.

 Rachel: Intriguing. I have recently become very interested in fantasy books! Especially ones with a little romance! So tell us what is this book about?

Anna: A princess of a mankind kingdom, who is so sheltered by her mother that she makes some unsafe choices growing up. They will change her life and that of her kingdom as she faces challenges that she isn’t prepared for. It also tells of a young Elf who feels an unsafe fascination about the nearby mankind kingdom. Against his elders’ wishes, he ventures there, finding heartaches, betrayal, and murder.

Rachel: Now I want to read this tale! Tell us what’s the first rule in building a fantasy world?

Anna: To stay true to the rules. If you say beings in that world don’t do something, don’t have them doing it later without explaining what changed so that now they can do what you said they couldn’t.

Rachel: That’s sometimes really hard to do. Have you ever wanted to write your book in one direction but your characters wanted to go in another direction? What did you do in such a situation?

Anna: Your characters are the most important parts of your book. So, if they want to go left you go left, even if you wanted to go right. If you don’t, it will be quite hard to make them change and your tale will feel forced. I want my tales to go smoothly, so I don’t fight the characters, they know better than me. 

Rachel: Sometimes people envision an author’s life as being really glamorous. Tell us what’s the most unglamorous thing you’ve done in the past week?

Anna: Change dirty diapers and keep my little Alexis happy. She didn’t feel to good. I love taking care of her though.

Rachel: What's your favorite music?

Anna: Romantic, hands down. The Platters, The Stylistics, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis. Soft rock. Lots of oldies. More recent artists: Il Divo, Julio Iglesias, Celine Dion, etc.

Rachel: What other fantasy tale are you weaving for us?

Anna: I am ready to finished The Flying Elf, which will be my Elf book for next year.

Rachel: Thanks so much for sharing with us, Anna.

Anna: Thank you for inviting me to come. I had a wonderful time visiting with you.

Rachel: If you’d like to find out more about Anna please visit: http://www.annadelc.com, and to read reviews of Anna’s books visit her online or at Barnes & Noble. 

Secondhand Charm, by Julie Berry

Today's review is Secondhand Charm by Julie Berry.


Brief Summary:
In a secluded village, magic sparkles on the edges of the forest. There, a young girl named Evie possesses unusually strong powers as a healer. A gypsy's charms--no more than trinkets when worn by others--are remarkably potent when Evie ties them around her neck. Her talents, and charms, have not escaped the notice of the shy stonemason's apprentice. But Evie wants more than a quiet village and the boy next-door. When the young king's carriage arrives one day, and his footman has fallen ill, Evie might just get her chance after all...


My Take:
I don't always like YA books, maybe because I'm starting to feel old since my oldest daughter is nearing her teen years. Anyway, I remembered enjoying The Amaranth Enchantment by Julie Berry, so I thought I'd give this a try.


I am thrilled to report that I loved Secondhand Charm! I'm not sure why. I don't like snakes at all, but I was drawn into the book from the first page. (I'm working on figuring out how to do that with my own writing as well, so this was good for me to recognize.)


Evie is a young girl who wants to learn about being a doctor. Due to the kindness of the king, she travels to the capital to attend the university. On her way, she discovers that the things she'd always believed about herself are not true. Everything changes in the time it takes for the ship she's traveling on to sink. She puts her education on hold in order to learn more about her background. Through everything, there is a certain boy who keeps coming to her aide. Though he has his own struggles, the romance that blossoms between them is sweet and intense. As together they save the kingdom, they must both decide what they truly want.

Since I love romances, (not that this is considered a romance, but there is a nice little bit of it in here,) I have been trying to dissect the romance in this novel. It is simple and sweet, yet the book is not focused on it. Still, I think it is the not knowing what will happen is part of what spurred me on.

If you are looking for a fun, fast read, you will surely enjoy this book!

Much Ado in the Moolight

Back Cover:

When Victoria McKinnon’s brother offers to finance her production of Hamlet, she leaps at the chance. She can’t imagine anything better than staging Shakespeare’s masterpiece in an honest-to-goodness English castle. There’s just one problem: the place is haunted by a grumpy, gorgeous Highland warrior who’s furious that anyone dares to invade his home.Connor MacDougal has no intention of relinquishing his authority over Thorpewold castle to anyone, let alone a McKinnon. But when he catches a glimpse of the beautiful intruder, suddenly he can’t help but wonder why it’s taken eight hundred years into his afterlife to find the love of a lifetime…

My Take:

I have to say that of all of Lynn Kurland's books, this is one of my favorites!! I don't know if I could just relate to Victoria or if I just fell in love with Conner. Either way, I LOVED the adventure these two shared!! 

Victoria is the director of a theater company and they relocate to Scotland to do a production of Hamlet at her brother's castle. Conner is the lord of the castle with the mind that no one will take it away from him. EVER! When he discovers his laird-ship is threatened, he immediately riles his forces. However when Victoria walks through the door for the first time, he falls to his knees! (How fun!!) At that moment he is lost, even though he has no idea!

Fun and sassy, Victoria is a strong heroine who takes control of her otherwise suddenly out of control situation. She's a strong lead and Conner is so sinfully scrumptious I almost wish I had a ghost of my own!

If you are looking for a feel-good, fall-in-love-all-over-again kind of book, this is it!

Dangerous Favor

Today's Review is Dangerous Favor, by Joyce DiPastena.

Back Cover:


Mathilde needs a champion!

Her father has been accused of stealing from the king, an allegation that has reduced her family to poverty. She has one chance to find and marry a man who can help her prove her father's innocence. Lord Therri, heir to a rich barony, has the wealth and connections Mathilde needs to delve into the mysteries of her father's past. Furthermore, Therri embodies all her romantic dreams. 

Etienne, the younger son of a disgraced family, has neither wealth nor connections, but is smitten with Mathilde at a glance. She finds the knight intriguing, but believes he is only out to seduce her. While she seeks for a way to win Therri's attention, Etienne tricks her into granting him her favor, an embroidered white ribbon, for a tournament, setting in motion a dangerous chain reaction of events. Can Etienne save Mathilde from a nightmare from her past and prove himself the true hero of her dreams?

My Take:


First off, I must say that I loved this book! I don't know what it is about the way Joyce writes her stories, but I am easily transported to another time and another place. I simply love becoming lost in her world!

I have to say that Etienne is the sweetest thing I've encountered in a while. He's everything a hero should be. He's buff, he's hot, he's yummy, he will do anything for Mathilde, and he has no money! Mathilde is the epitome of the desperate heroine who wants to prove herself and restore her family's honor, but she also wants be happy. The struggle that ensues as these elements combine leaves the reader captivated.

There is adventure and intrigue, love and hate, sorrow and deceit. I was absolutely astounded at the level of emotions Joyce can evoke from her readers. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a good clean romance!

Excerpt:

Mathilde’s violet eyes turned misty again. Etienne imagined she longed for some man to be thus stricken over her. No doubt it was of Therri she dreamed. What had she called him? The Vision? Etienne’s mouth quirked up in rare envy of his friend.

She sighed and forced her gaze—reluctantly, he thought—to refocus on his face.

“Pray, sir, it is most unchivalrous of you to tease me this way. If you are a true knight, you will honor my request and give me back the ribbon.”

Etienne hesitated. He wanted to wear her favor, but he realized it was equally important to him that she should think well of him. If he continued to refuse her request, she would think him a churlish brute.

           

Before he could decide how to answer, Hermaline swept through her half-circle of mounted attendants, apparently tired of waiting for her would-be champion to return. She bore down upon Etienne and Mathilde with sparkling eyes, her veil fluttering in her hand like a banner of war. If he were to surrender Mathilde’s ribbon, he told himself, then he must at least arm himself with some other shield in its place.

             

“If I give it back to you,” he said quickly to Mathilde, “what will you give me in exchange?”

           

“In exchange?”

           

“You agreed last night to grant me your favor for the tournament today. If you insist that I behave as a ‘true knight’ and return the ribbon you gave me, then I demand you keep your word as a ‘lady’ and grant me some other favor in its stead.”

           

“But I told you last night that I have nothing else to give you.”

           

Hermaline was nearly upon them.

           

“Then,” he murmured to Mathilde, “I hope you will forgive me, for I am about to behave most unchivalrously.”

Tune in on Friday for an interview with Joyce DiPastena!

Court Duel

Today's review is Court Duel by Sherwood Smith

Editorial Review: The teenage Countess Meliara finds herself compelled for political reasons to leave her small castle in county Tlanth to stay at the royal palace Athanarel in the capital city, Remalna. She is completely unprepared for court life, preferring to run barefoot over the hills rather than learning how to hold her fan correctly, but luckily her brother's new fiancee takes Meliara under her wing and teaches her the nuances of court etiquette. Mel soon finds herself swept up in a dizzying whirl of flirtation and political intrigue, and she remains confused about both until a plot to take over the throne brings many secrets to light. Court Duel stands well on its own, although readers will immediately want to go back and read the first book. Mel is a likable heroine who is constantly chastising herself for her ignorance and quick temper, and the other characters are fully realized and fascinating in their own right. There isn't much action until the very end, but readers will enjoy immersing themselves in the subtleties of courtly life and love. My Take: I liked this one lots more than the first one, probably because there's more romance in this one. And there is a secret romance in this that creates an emotional tension that is enthralling. On top of the intrigue and adventure, Mel is a strong character who makes real mistakes, and you can't help but relate to her. I would definately reccomend this book for anyone who wants a quick, enjoyable read.

Crown Duel

Today's review is of Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith.

Editorial Review: A girl in Remalna traditionally spends her Flower Day being feted, dancing with friends, and celebrating her passage to womanhood. Countess Meliara spends hers on the front lines of a war. She and her brother promised their dying father to free Remalna from the oppressive rule of Greedy Galdran and to preserve the vital Covenant with Remalna's aloof, unhuman Hill People. Courageous, stubborn Meliara, honorable and sharp-tongued, is determined to win or die fighting, and her hardships, uneasy alliances, and fondness for daring (foolhardy) tactics make anxious, unstoppable reading. My Take: This was a fun and interesting YA book. I enjoyed the adventure and the twists. Mel's brother, Bran, always says what's on his mind and is blatantly honest, which is fun. This is an easy read and very clean. I would willingly allow my daughters to read this book. There is no romance in it, but as it's only book one, you have to read it to discover the good stuff in book two!

Clockwork Angel - Review

This week's review is the first book in The Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare.

Back Cover:

Magic is dangerous—but love is more dangerous still.
When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

My Take:

I found this book much more terrifying than the Mortal Instruments series. I don't know if that's because I find human robots quite frightening or what. I thought this book was a lot darker than the others. Still, I liked it. A lot! I found it interesting that that the characters were the ancestors of the the characters in the other series.

I loved Jem and I was certainly drawn to Will. I love the twists that Cassandra uses in her stories. I should be ready for them but I find myself continually surprised.

There is plenty of action in this and lots of adventure. If you liked the Mortal Instruments series, you'll probably enjoy this one as well! I am excited and eager to read the others in both these series!

City of Glass - Review

This week's review is the third book in the Mortal Instrument's series City of Glass by Cassandra Clare.

Back Cover:

To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters — never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and her best friend, Simon, has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadowhunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadowhunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City — whatever the cost?

Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling The Mortal Instruments.

My Take:

This was my favorite of the three books!!! These are DEFINITELY best read all three together. There are three more after this (not all of them are out yet) but at least this third book is a good stopping spot.

This book takes you to the capital of the Shadowhunter's world. A fascinating adventure! Clary has become more confident and sure of her Shadowhunter's abilities. She has become a very dominant heroine yet still quite vulnerable. Of course she has Simon and Jace to look after her and they are just so yummy!!

Definitely a fun read! I'd recommend them! This one has a couple foul words in it, but for the most part is pretty clean. Either way, I LOVED this series!!

City of Ashes - Revies

Today's review is the second book in the Mortal Instruments series, City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare.

Back cover:

Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father.

To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?

In this breathtaking sequel to City of Bones, Cassandra Clare lures her readers back into the dark grip of New York City's Downworld, where love is never safe and power becomes the deadliest temptation.

My Take:

Okay, I liked this book, but the romantic friction and tension was VERY frustrating! Ach!!

This was a classic second book that ties the first and third ones together well. However, unlike second books, this book was very essential in the trio. The first book focuses on finding the first mortal instrument. In this one we learn about the second. This book demonstrates how a series should build one on top of another and the end left me LONGING for the third one.

I loved how this book carried me to other worlds within our own and kept me enthralled throughout! The twists were, of course, unexpected and fun! Who would have thought...?

If you liked the first one, you'll like this one as well!

Happy reading!

City of Bones - Review

I've been doing lots of reading lately! I'm not sure where the extra time has come from. Oh, wait! I haven't been writing, only reading! Sorry.

So the book review I have today is City of Bones by Cassandra Clare.

Back Cover:
When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder — much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Clary knows she should call the police, but it's hard to explain a murder when the body disappears into thin air and the murderers are invisible to everyone but Clary.

Equally startled by her ability to see them, the murderers explain themselves as Shadowhunters: a secret tribe of warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. Within twenty-four hours, Clary's mother disappears and Clary herself is almost killed by a grotesque demon.

But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know....

My Take:
Now this is not my typical romance! However, I really liked it. My first thought was, "Ugh! Another best seller series. This is going to be like a Harry Potter, Twilight thing." (Please don't get me wrong, I enjoy both those series, I just don't like reading things that try to copy what those two authors have done.)
But, my aunt had recommended this series to me, so I thought I'd give it a shot. I didn't have a hard time getting into it, but I had a hard time wanting to read it, just on principle. I don't really like reading series because I know I have to read the entire thing whether I really like it or not. Silly, I know. Anyway, by the time I was halfway through, I was, of course, in love with Jace and Simon and had to finish the book. And by the end, I was so frustrated by the little twist that I thought there was a mistake and immediately went out and got the next two books.
So, a long story short, I enjoyed the adventure and twists in this story. It was well written and had a good story line. It was easy to read and I really enjoyed it. My daughter even really liked it.
Was it a romance? Well..... I don't know that I can really answer that without giving EVERYTHING away. There was some romance in it, frustrating though it was. But it was more adventure driven than romance driven. Sad, I know. Still, I found it refreshing and I really enjoyed it. If you are looking for a fun read, look in the youth section of your library or order it online. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Happy reading!

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

I just finished reading Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George. I really enjoy reading retellings of fairy tales, and this one was no exception. This is a retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses.

Blurb:

Rose is one of twelve princesses forced to dance through the night in an underground palace. The key to breaking the spell lies in magic knitting needles, an invisibility cloak, and—of course—true love. Inspired by "The Twelve Dancing Princesses,"this novel is as captivating as it is fresh. Enchanted readers are sure to clamor for the new companion, Princess of Glass, also publishing this season.

My Take:

I can't tell you how fun this was to read. I haven't read anything like this in quite a while, so maybe that's why it was so much fun! It is very similar to other books I've read with the same story line, but I enjoyed this one more than most. The hero, Galen, is an ex-soldier working in the palace gardens when he meets the oldest princess, Rose. They don't encounter each other much and don't fall in love right away, but it's very sweet how he dotes on her and finds ways to give her gifts without the others realizing he's interested in her. This is a story about endurance and cleverness and love. This would be a great book to read on a winter's day with nothing to do. I highly recommend it!

Happy reading!

Bitter Blessings by Christine Mehring

I hope everyone had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving!! One of my favorite things to have is lemon meringue pie. And my dad ALWAYS makes the best!! Now it's on to Christmas Candy! (Yesterday I made peanut brittle and raspberry swirl cheesecake.) But perhaps I'll write more about that another time.

I have also been reading a lot lately! I haven't even had much time to write because I've been reading. Here's a review for one of my recent readings.

I was thrilled to receive an advanced copy of Bitter Blessings and read through it. Christine Mehring is a gifted author who has a good sense of writing well rounded characters. Here's the blurb for the book.

Blurb:

Megan has the perfect life, but when her mother dies in an accident, everything spins out of control. With the rest of her family falling apart, Megan must confront her past to uncover the truths that will keep everyone together. Thought-provoking and heartfelt, this book shows that even in times of trial, you can often find blessings.

My Take:

I was stunned at how real everything felt while I read this. I don't always enjoy this type of book because it feels too real to endure. But I was impressed with the emotions Mehring was able to provoke in me as I read this. It is a touching story of faith and courage. (You may need to keep a box of tissues nearby.) This story contained a bit of romance, heartache, and some soul searching. In the end, it was an enjoyable book illustrating the bonds of family.

If you would like to purchase a copy of Bitter Blessings visit Christine Mehring's website.

Happy reading!!

The Outer Edge of Heaven by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

I just finished reading The Outer Edge of Heaven by Jaclyn M. Hawkes.

Back Cover:

Her parents want a clout wielding attorney, safely enthroned in an appropriately high end Mercedes sedan and a tailored business suit. She just wants to teach kindergarten.

When her "all-powerful" parents actually choose her future husband, who just happens to be a divorce lawyer named Elroy, Charlie opts out and heads for Big Sky Country. After all, who marries a divorce lawyer? She and her best friend Fo, who have been buddies since the third grade, go to work on his cousin's sprawling ranch in the heart of the Montana Rockies.

Filled with colorful characters of all shapes, sizes and species, including an orphaned baby pig, most of the Langston family put the fun in dysfunctional, five or take a couple of black sheep. There's one in every family, isn't there?

Add to that glorious scenery, a horse of her own, and one extremely attractive cousin rancher, Luke Langston, and it makes for a summer never to be forgotten. Which might not be a good thing. She has the time of her life, but her heart may never recover.

My Review:

I enjoyed this book. It was a quick and easy read. Luke is a yummy hero, Fo is the fun brother every girl wishes for, and the setting is prime for romance! I had to laugh at Elroy, just because I couldn't help but wonder why he didn't get a hint! Jaclyn's characters are strong and their adventures are enthralling. If you need a book that is a good clean read, The Outer Edge of Heaven is certainly an enjoyable choice!

Love and Laughter!

Goodnight Tweetheart, by Teresa Medeiros

I just finished reading Goodnight Tweetheart, by Teresa Medeiros. Usually I pick out a book because I like the author and then part way through the book I will read the back cover. I did the same with this one.

Abigail Donovan has a lot of stuff she should be doing. Namely writing her next novel. A bestselling author who is still recovering from a near Pulitzer Prize win and the heady success that follows Oprah’s stamp of approval, she is stuck at Chapter Five and losing confidence daily. But when her publicist signs her up for a Twitter account, she’s intrigued. What’s all the fuss?
Taken under the wing of one of her Twitter followers, “MarkBaynard"—a quick witted, quick-typing professor on sabbatical—Abby finds it easy to put words out into the world 140 characters at a time. And once she gets a handle on tweets, retweets, direct messages, hashtags, and trends, she starts to feel unblocked in writing and in life. After all, why should she be spending hours in her apartment staring at her TweetDeck and fretting about her stalled career when Mark is out there traveling the world and living?

Or is he?

I found this to be a highly unusual book as most of it is done in the form of tweets. Yes, you heard me correctly. A good share of the book is written in tweet dialogue. Each dialogue existing for 146 characters or less. I found myself wondering how you’d write a book in this form. Would you write it and then go back and make sure each form of dialogue was only 146 characters? Or would you do count each character as you went along? Or did Teresa simply get a feel of how long 146 characters is and get it all right the first time? And how many edits did she have to make?

Silly questions, I know. That’s the writer in me.

The reader in me enjoyed the simple online romance. It was cute! There were a couple references to sexual behaviors, and there were a couple choice words. If that doesn’t bother you, I’d recommend this book. It was light, fun, an easy read, and really well crafted. It’s amazing what the author has managed to tell the reader about each of the characters strictly through tweets.

If you are looking for something quick and different than your traditional romance, this is one I’d recommend!

Pemberly Shades Review

I just finished reading Pemberly Shades by D. A. Bonavia-Hunt. I don't always like everything I read. (Hard to believe, I know.) And I often read things I don't write reviews for. (I sometimes read romances for research purposes and choose not to write reviews on my blog for books that are not clean.) While this isn't strictly a romance, it is clean and there are possible romances.

Back Cover

Originally published in 1949, the unusual plot takes the Darcys into the realm of the Gothic.

Mr. Darcy must appoint a new rector at Pemberley, which affords the author the opportunity to introduce a host of new characters to mingle with the beloved and familiar ones of Jane Austen.

A delightfully witty plot, full of surprises:

"Who could have foretold that Dr. Robinson, who had done nothing of note in all his lifetime should, by the common and natural act of dying, set in motion a train of events so strange, so startling, so far removed from probability as to emulate the riotous fancies of a disordered mind?"
"The kind of story Jane Austen would have delighted to tell."
-J. Donald Adams

What readers are saying:

"Really a great book and captures Austen's characters quite well. I was excessively diverted."
"A very original plot."
"A wonderful addition to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice sequels!"

My Take

I gave this book 3 stars on Goodreads.

I was eager to read this book. I was curious to see what happened to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. While this story was interesting in its own right, it was very difficult to get into. It moved slowly. And though easier to read than Pride and Prejudice, it felt like I was being talked at as opposed to enjoying the ride along with the characters. I wish there had been more dialogue as those sections moved quickly and were far more enjoyable to read.

If you are curious about what may have happened to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy you may enjoy this. It wasn't a bad book, I just don't LOVE books I can't get into.

A CLEAN ROMANCE!

I apologize for posting two book reviews in a row, but I just finished this book and really enjoyed it!! I've been reading a lot lately, researching how authors create romantic tension in their stories. Unfortunately, many authors accomplish that through sex scenes. (For those of you concerned, I tend to skip over the sex pages.)

Anyway, I've been told that Lynn Kurland's books are good, so I gave them a try. I am happy too report that Lynn Kurland's books (at least this one, though I think most of them) are CLEAN ROMANCES!!! How refreshing!!!

Dreams of Stardust by Lynn Kurland

Jake

Jake Kilchurn travels the world to unearth exquisite stones for this one-of-a-kind creations, but it is during an unexpected side trip to Seakirk castle that he meets a cadre of ghosts discussing a timeless beauty who lived centuries ago.

Amanda

Amanda de Piaget is busy doing what she does best—fending off suitors—when she stumbles on a different kind of man. He is unconscious, dirty, and oddly clad. But unlike the other men who find themselves at Artane, Jake knows nothing about her—and Amanda finds herself strangely drawn to him.

Artane

Time has brought them together to the safety of its walls, but only time will tell if they'll escape those who would try to tear them apart...

There weren't as many kissing scenes in this as I would have liked in it, but it was clean. I loved his devotion to her and his easy charm. He gave up everything to fight for her and worked so hard!! Jake was a true gentleman, and I fell in love with him right away! (Don't tell my husband!)

So if you need something clean to read and haven't read anything by Lynn Kurland, I would recommend her! I have several more in my pile to read!!

Happy reading!

Wednesday Romance

Happy Wednesday!!!

I have been so sick this last week and I'm still exhausted. I haven't done much writing, but I've done a little editing. My head is still stuffy, and my throat is raw. I was planning to write something, but I have a shorter attention span than my three-year-old. I didn't sleep well last night, so I'm sure that didn't help.

Okay. Enough pity. I thought I'd share with you a review of one of my FAVORITE books of all time!! I wish I could have been this clever to come up with a book like this! I love the twists and turns of the story. AND I LOVE THE HERO!!!! Valek. How can you not love a man with that name? Trust me. You will love him. Before I get ahead of myself, let me give you a brief overview.

Poison Study, by Maria V. Snyder

Choose: A quick death . . . Or slow poison . . .

About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered an extraordinary reprieve. She'll eat the best meals, have rooms in the palace -- and risk assassination by anyone trying to kill the Commander of Ixia.

And so Yelena chooses to become a food taster. But the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, deliberately feeds her Butterfly's Dust -- and only by appearing for her daily antidote will she delay an agonizing death from the poison.

As Yelena tries to escape her new dilemma, disasters keep mounting. Rebels plot to seize Ixia and Yelena develops magical powers she can't control. Her life is threatened again and choices must be made. But this time the outcomes aren't so clear . . .

Now this is less of a romance and more of a fast paced adventure, but I LOVE it!!! And there is a great romance in it! I have recently taken a keen interest in books with a bit of supernatural to them. Poison Study has it in spades. Ixia is a fictional kingdom and the adventures are endless. Trust me. There are two more books in this series and another series of three that are related to this!! LOVE IT!

So Yelena becomes a food taster and tests for poisons in the Commander's (ruler) food instead of hanging for murder. She reports daily to Valek who gives her an antidote to the poison he gives her in the beginning called Butterfly Dust. The antidote is the only way to keep the poison from killing her.

As Yelena discovers she possesses magic, which is forbidden, she also learns self defense and meets some friends, who are refreshingly funny. She is constantly on the run from the father of the man she killed, and others who have discovered her magic. She also discovers that Valek, the best assassin in the land, has a softer side that no one is aware of. Amidst avoiding death each day, Yelena finds love and must find a way to preserve it.

If you haven't read this book, I would recommend it! It's lots of fun!

Meg's Melody

I just finished reading Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin.


From the Back Cover

She paced the small confines of her bathroom as she waited the obligatory two minutes for the result. Yet, part of her sensed the truth. Not only did Austin take her self-esteem and plans for happiness, but he also took her get-out-of-this-marriage-free card.

The plus sign glared at Meg from the white plastic frame of the pregnancy test. The test fell from her hands and clattered into the bathtub as Meg’s back slid against the wall until she reached the floor.

“I’m pregnant,” she said into the quiet.

Meg never imagined she'd end up like this. With nowhere else to turn, she's forced to rely on the family she pushed away, the church she abandoned, and an unexpected friendship to help her find her forgotten melody. Meanwhile Matt is still mourning the loss of his wife. But determined to keep things together for his daughter's sake, he decides starting over in a new place might be just what his family needs.

This touching story combines romance with redemption and real conflict to remind you it's never too late to find joy. Kaylee Baldwin's capable hand renders a sincere, heartfelt story of rediscovery and hope. Perfect for romantics of all ages, this book will captivate your heart and rekindle your belief in the magic of music.

My Thoughts:

I read this for Kaylee two summers ago and was thrilled to get to read this again. I was eager to see the changes she made and see what kinds of things she kept the same. I was very impressed all around! Kaylee's characters are realistic, and it was fun getting to know them. I LOVE the romance in this book. Not because of all the kissing (although there's some of that too) but because of the journeys the characters take to get them to where they care for each other. It is very sweet.

Now, this is an LDS novel, and normally I wouldn't read something like this. However, I felt like the religious aspect was part of the characters path to recovery, and it was not delivered in a pushy and obnoxious way. I found it tastefully done.

So basically, you have Meg, who finds out she's pregnant after her husband leaves and she must deal with her pregnancy and the betrayal of her husband. You have Matt, who is a single father and still mourning his wife's death. They are thrown together and they help each other heal and grow stronger. Their friendship is refreshing and Matt is the kind of guy every girl wants!

If you'd like to know more about Kaylee Baldwin and Meg's Melody, visit her blog!

J. Adam's book - The Wishing Hour

Today I have the opportunity to write a review for J. Adams newest ebook, The Wishing Hour.


Description:
Celine Halston lives an average solitary life, sticking to routine, never taking chances, and never experiencing true love. All of this changes when a handsome immortal enters her life. She has never laid eyes on the man before, but she somehow knows him and instantly trusts him completely. Placing her life in his hands, Celine is taken on an unexpected journey to fulfill a prophecy.

My reaction:
I have recently taken a liking to books that have fantasy mixed with reality. This book also has a healthy dose of clean romance in it too! The whispered thoughts the nameless hero can speak to Celine's mind are sensuous and thrilling. The relationship they share is something made in the heavens. As they run for their lives, love, and provide hope to his people, they weave a compelling tale. As the Woman of Prophesy, the 'enemy' seeks to take her life. Her nameless protector watched over her since her birth. Now, together, they encounter trials they must conquer together.
I would recommend this book if you are looking for something with some good romance in it. There is also the extra-human aspect that I find facinating. I am blown away by how Adam's mind has created this world. Her details are delicious and her images are vivid.

The author:
J. (Jewel) Adams stays crazy busy with her family and writing. She has written several books in different genres and is also a motivational speaker to both youth and adult audiences. She home schools her four kids that are still at home, and between that and conjuring up new ideas for her books, her brain is completely fried most of the time. She and her husband Sean are the parents of eight children, which means they are both losing hair,
but hey, that's what Rogaine is for, right?
In her spare time (when she has any) she likes to curl up with a good book and a healthy stash of orange Tic Tacs. She and her family reside in Utah.

Also visit her website and blog at http://www.jadamsnovels.com and http://jewelsbestgems.blogspot.com.

Purchase your copy of The Wishing Hour at Smashwords.com and Offthebookshelf.com.

Wrong Number Book Review

I have to say that as a general rule, I don't get into suspense books or thrillers. I LOVE a good romance however. Wrong Number has a bit of all of the above. It was thrilling enough to keep my attention but not so much that I couldn't sleep at night, if you know what I mean!


When Aubree Stewart receives a mysterious phone call on her way to work, she doesn't know what to think when the caller mentions a dead body. At first she assumes it s some kind of prank. But the call isn't a practical joke, and Aubree soon finds herself swept up in a world of danger, intrigue, and murder. With help from the FBI, Aubree races to protect herself and what s left of her family, but the one thing she forgets to protect is her own heart.



If you enjoy a page turning, thrilling read, with a little bit of sweet romance thrown into the mix, let me please recommend Wrong Number.