Friday, December 31, 2010

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!! I hope everyone has a fun and safe time ringing in the new year.

2010 was a pretty good year and I hope 2011 will bring more of the same. I want to send out a Thank You to the readers that spent their time to come visit my blog. Also a big Thank You to the authors that stopped by in 2010 either in the comments, a blog post or interview. It was a pleasure to host you here. 


My TBR list for 2011 is much longer than this... but here are the ones I can't wait to read:

Shadowfever- Karen Marie Moning
Dreams of a Dark Warrior- Kresley Cole
Demonglass- Rachel Hawkins
Invincible- Sherrilyn Kenyon
Lover Unleashed- J.R. Ward
Big Bad Beast- Shelly Laurenston
Dead Reckoning- Charlaine Harris
Magic Slays- Ilona Andrews
Stolen Nights- Rebecca Maizel
Kiss of Snow- Nalini Singh
Wolfsbane- Andrea Cremer
Redemption- Sherrilyn Kenyon
Dark Taste of Rapture- Gena Showalter

December 2010 - Reading List

I Dream of Genies- Judi Fennell
3 Stars

Blue- Lou Aronica
3 Stars

Misguided Angel- Melissa De La Cruz
4 Stars

A Taste of True Blood- Edited by Leah Wilson
3 Stars

Blood Prophecy- Stefan Petrucha
5 Stars

Hungry For You- Lynsay Sands
4 Stars

A Midwinter Fantasy- Anthology
4 Stars

Entice- Carrie Jones
4 Stars

Immortal Sea- Virginia Kantra
3 Stars

The Christmas Fantasy- KT Grant
4 Stars

Remedial Magic- Jenna Black
3 Stars

The Princes In The Tower- Alison Weir
3 Stars

Blood Magic- Jennifer Lyon
5 Stars

Waking the Witch- Kelley Armstrong
4 Stars

Counterfeit Magic- Kelley Armstrong
4 Stars

The Dark Divine- Bree Despain
4 Stars

The Lost Saint- Bree Despain
4 Stars


Ratings:
5 Stars- Amazing- A Must Read
4 Stars- Loved It
3 Stars- Liked It/Good read
2 Stars- It was Ok
1 Stars- Didn't Like

Even though it doesn't look like it, I had a bit of reading slump this month. Thankfully it has passed LOL!  It's hard to believe 2010 is coming to an end, it went by so fast. But 2011 will bring many good things I hope.

Coming in January:
  • Interview & Giveaway with Hailey Edwards
  • Interview & Giveaway with Judi Fennell
  • Interview & Giveaway with Chloe Neill
  • Guest Blog with Sherry Ficklin

Winners

Here are the winners to all open giveaways which include both holiday giveaways and the ARC giveaway of The Anatomy of Ghost.  Scroll down to find out how to claim your prize. 

Patricia Briggs Fantasy Pack

Blood Trinity

Shift

Double Cross

Fatal Circle

Grave Witch

Beneath the Skin

The Anatomy of Ghosts

If you happen to have the same name as a winner and your not sure If I mean you.. I've linked all winners back to their profile or blog. So to find out just click on the name.

Congrats! Please send your mailing information here:
annasbookblog@gmail.com
You have 5 days to claim your prize

The winners were chosen through Random.org

Thursday, December 30, 2010

January Book Releases

1st
I Dream of Genies- Judi Fennell
Incubus- Janet Elizabeth Jones
Kiss at your Own Risk- Stephanie Row
My Soul to Steal- Rachel Vincent
Lone Wolf- Karen Whiddon

3rd
Trickster's Girl- Hilari Bell
My Immortal Assassin- Carolyn Jewell
Tempest Legacy- Nicole Peeler
Flip this Zombie- Jesse Petersen
Sins of a Highland Devil- Sue-Ellen Welfonder

4th
The Soul Mirror- Carol Berg
Shadowspell- Jenna Black
Ravished by a Viking- Delilah Devlin
Everlong- Hailey Edwards  (print)
Demon Marked- Anna J. Evans
Indulgent- Cathryn Fox
Skin Heat- Ava Gray
A Hard Day's Knight- Simon R. Green
Taken by the Others- Jess Haines
Of Truth and Beasts- Barb & JC Hendee
Angel at Dawn- Emma Holly
Mercy Blade- Faith Hunter
Nocturne- Syrie James
Finding Destiny- Jean Johnson
Master of Smoke- Angela Knight
Spellweaver- Lynn Kurland
Must Like Kilts- Allie MacKay
Night School- Mari Mancusi
Surrender to Darkness- Annette McCleve
Hexbound- Chloe Neill
Slice & Cherry- Dia Reeves
Deadlock- Moira Rogers
Secrets of the Demon- Diana Rowland
A Werewolf in Manhattan- Vicki Lewis Thompson
Frostfire- Lynn Viehl
Blood Challenge- Eileen Wilks

6th
XVI- Julia Karr
Balefire Omnibus- Cate Tiernan

11th
All Just Glass- Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
Uncross My Heart- Jennifer Colgan
Warped- Maurissa Guibord
Tiger's Curse- Colleen Houck
Across the Universe- Beth Revis

16th
Blue- Lou Aronica

18th
Mystify- Artist Arthur
Noble Blood- Dana Marie Bell
The Witch's Daughter- Paula Brackston
Lust- Charlotte Featherstone
Pack of Lies- Laura Anne Gilman
How to Breath Fire- Shona Husk
The Tudors for Dummies- David Loades
Shadowfever- Karen Marie Moning
Allison Hewitt Is Trapped- Madeleine Roux

25th
The Red Garden- Alice Hoffman
Play Dead- John Levitt
Crossed- J.F. Lewis
A Brush of Darkness- Allison Pang
Bloodshot- Cherie Priest
Heart of the Exiled- Pati Nagle
The False Princess- Eilis O'Neal
Vesper- Jeff Sampson
Blessed- Cynthia Leitich Smith

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Cover Discovery

This post could double as a "Waiting on Wednesday". I'm really looking forward to all three of these titles. :)

Release Date: August 2, 2011

Release Date: August 2, 2011

Release Date: August 23, 2011

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

ARC Giveaway: The Anatomy of Ghosts

I received an ARC of The Anatomy of Ghosts (January 25th), but sadly I don't think I will get to it soon. I'm hoping a reviewer or a book blogger will be interested. If that is you and you live in the U.S. or Canada leave a comment along with you name and email address. The winner will be announced on December 31st. 
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

The Anatomy of Ghosts
Release Date: January 25, 2010

Book Description:
They say Jerusalem is haunted by Mrs Whichcote's ghost. Frank Oldershaw claims he saw her in the garden, where she drowned. Now he's under the care of a physician.

Desperate to salvage her son's reputation and restore him to health, Lady Anne Oldershaw employs her own agent - John Holdsworth, author of The Anatomy of Ghosts, a controversial attack on the existence of ghostly phenomena. But his arrival in Cambridge disrupts the uneasy status quo. He glimpses a world of privilege and abuse, where the sinister Holy Ghost Club governs life at Jerusalem more effectively than the Master, Dr Carbury, ever could.

But Holdsworth's powers of reason and natural philosophy have other challenges. He dreams of his dead wife, Maria, who roams the borders of death. And now there's Elinor, the very-much-alive Master's wife, to haunt him in life. And at the heart of it all is the mystery of what really happened to Sylvia Whichcote in the claustrophobic confines of Jerusalem.

Why was Sylvia found lying dead in the Long Pond just before a February dawn? Why was she in Jerusalem at all? And how did she die?

Blogs To Check Out [7]

Here are the latest blogs I've added to my blog roll...



Books On the Knob is another fantastic blog I've come across. If you have an E-Reader or love E-books, you'll want to check this blog out.

Monday, December 27, 2010

[Series Spotlight] - Wing Slayer Hunters

This months Series Spotlight is on Wing Slayer Hunters by Jennifer Lyon.  I haven't seen much about this series, but it definitely deserves exposure. The last few weeks I've gone through a couple reading slumps. But then I picked up Blood Magic and boy was it a winner. I loved it and it sucked me in right away. It's everything I love about Paranormal Romance. If you haven't tried this one I highly recommend it. :)

Book #1:

THE HUNTER AND THE HUNTED

In the days when powerful witches used their magic to shield humanity from demons, their allies and guardians were a group of men gifted with preternatural abilities of their own–the witch guardians. But when a band of witches traded their humanity for demonic power, the ancient bond was broken, and the guardians became the hunters.

Darcy MacAlister knows nothing of demons or magic. But this beautiful young woman is about to discover the truth about her past…and her future. For she is a witch–not just any witch, but the key to breaking the curse that has plagued witches and the men who hunt them. For if a hunter kills an innocent witch by mistake, the price is no less than a piece of his soul.

Axel Locke, gorgeous leader of the Wing Slayer Hunters, has sworn never to shed the blood of the earth witches who have resisted the temptation of demonic power. But when his sister is cursed by a demon witch, he discovers that Darcy MacAlister may hold the cure–if she can master her newfound powers in time. When the chase begins and Axel and Darcy come face-to-face, this hunter must weigh his soul against his honor–and against his heart.


Book #2

KISS OR KILL

When an ancient pact is broken, powerful witches who once used their magic to help humanity become the twisted playthings of demons, and the mortal men who once protected the sorceresses become witch hunters, cursed with the longing to spill the witches’ blood: an irresistible craving that will cost witches their lives and witch hunters their souls.

The Wing Slayer Hunters fight this curse, guarding innocent witches until the urge to harm them grows too strong–then they must kill their own. Wing Slayer Sutton West has always honored that vow. His own father killed himself rather than go rogue. But now Sutton is tempted as never before by Carla Fisk, a brilliant psychologist and dynamic witch whose twin sister, Keri, was murdered by rogues.

Bound by blood and passion, Carla and Sutton dare not succumb to their deadly attraction. Yet when a mysterious rogue named Styx joins forces with the demon Asmodeus, witch and hunter have no choice but to work together. For Keri’s immortal soul is at stake–and with it, balanced on a knife-edge, is the fate of humanity itself.

Lucky for us there are two books coming out in 2011. I 
couldn't find any book descriptions. But the covers look amazing. I can't wait!

Book #3- March 22, 2011

Book #4- May 24, 2011

Sunday, December 26, 2010

In My Mailbox [Christmas Edition] [85]

 In My Mailbox was started over at The Story Siren.
Here is what I got this past week...


Christmas Loot
My cat decided he needed to be included as well, the little stinker.

More Christmas Loot

Gift from AmyC. Thank You!!

For a while now I've been thinking for upgrading to the new Kindle and I finally got my butt in gear. I have to say I'm really happy with it. Thank you to Patti from Book Addict for answering all my questions.

Gifts:
Ghost Town- Rachel Caine
Night Star- Alyson Noel
Lover Mine- J.R. Ward

Bought:
Counterfeit Magic- Kelley Armstrong  (not pictured)

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

TBR: Recent Additions [3]

Naked City
Anthology
July, 5, 2011

Dark After Midnight
Midnight Breeds #10
Lara Adrian
TBA

Vampires: The Recent Undead
Anthology
March 15, 2011

Lost in Time
Blue Bloods #6
Melissa De La Cruz
Oct 2011

Dark Predator
Carpathians #22
Christine Feehan
September 2011

Taste Me
Underbelly Chronicles #1
Tamara Hogan
March 1, 2011

What a Goddess Wants
Forgotten Goddesses #1
Stephanie Julian
July 1, 2011

Madame Tussaud
Michelle Moran
February 15, 2011

Dark Taste of Rapture
Alien Huntress #7
Gena Showalter
August 23, 2011

Blood Law
Blood Moon #1
Karin Tabke
May 3, 2011

Winners - Dragon Witch & Believe

and the winners are...

[Dragon Witch]

[Believe]

 Congrats! I will be contacting you later today 
to get your information.

The winners were chosen through Random.org

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

[Review] - The Christmas Fantasy

Title: The Christmas Fantasy
Author: KT Grant
Genre: Erotica Romance
Release Date: December 12, 2010

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary:  On a mission to lose her virginity before her thirtieth birthday on Christmas Day, Mandy Lockeheart plans to seduce the only man she’s ever loved, her brother’s best friend, firefighter Jackson Montgomery. With the sexy new body she’s worked hard to earn, she’s certain she can convince him to fulfill her fantasies.

When Mandy comes to him with her sexy proposal, Jackson can’t refuse her adorable seduction. Unfortunately, Mandy’s brother doesn’t want anyone playing around with his baby sister. Jackson must choose between respecting his friend wishes and making love to his perfect Christmas present.

Between Mandy’s occasionally poor body image and Jackson’s honor, the lovers must fight to realize their Christmas Fantasy.

Thoughts: I don't usually read Christmas themed book/stories during the holiday season. Mostly because I haven't found a story that interested me enough.  But The Christmas Fantasy turned out to be very enticing.  My very first firefighter! Yum!  Great themes and a storyline that stands out. Short, sweet but powerful. If your looking for a sexy story, to spice up the holiday I definitely recommend this story.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://ktgrant.blogspot.com/

Monday, December 20, 2010

Holiday Giveaway #2

Here is Holiday Giveaway #2 as promised. :) With this one I'm giving away Urban Fantasy titles.  There are six books, so there will be six winners. Each winner will also receive some swag.

To Enter:
  • Leave a comment along with your email address
  • Tell me which book you'd like to win
  • Open to U.S. & Canada
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

    Blood Trinity by Sherrylin Kenyon ~ Double Cross by Carolyn Crane ~ Shift by Rachel Vincent ~ Fatal Circle by Linda Robertson ~ Beneath the Skin by Adrian Phoenix ~ Grave Witch by Kalayna Price

    Saturday, December 18, 2010

    In My Mailbox [84]

     In My Mailbox was started over at The Story Siren.
    Here is what I got this past week...


    Books downloaded to my Kindle


    Review:
    The Christmas Fantasy- KT Grant
    Pale Demon- Kim Harrison
    Thank you to KT, Harper Collins & Library Thing.

    Gifts:
    Demon Blood- Meljean Brook
    One Night In Scotland- Karen Hawkins

    Bought:
    A Midwinter Fantasy- Hieber, McDonald & Taylor
    The Dark Divine- Bree Despain
    Last Sacrifice- Richelle Mead
    Men of Alaska: Animal Attraction- Paige Tyler

    Plus this week I received some very cool Christmas gifts.  
    Thank you to MichelleG & Barbara!



    What did you get this week?
    Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

    Friday, December 17, 2010

    [Review] - Blood Prophecy

    Title: Blood Prophecy
    Author: Stefan Petrucha
    Genre: Fantasy/Historical Fiction
    Release Date: November 1, 2010

    I received this book for review from the author.

    Summary:  Man and monster are in his blood. . .

    His name is Jeremiah Fall. A soldier of fortune, he has been fighting his own war for 150 years--ever since the beast in him was born.

    Desperate to restore his lost humanity, Fall crosses the sands of Egypt, discovers a lost city off the coast of France, and finally arrives at the birthplace of all mankind. Shunning daylight and feeding only when he must, he battles the monster who transformed him forever. He can share his deepest secret with no one . . . not even the beautiful woman he starts to love, the only human who grasps the mysteries of an ebony stone as old as creation itself.

    Across the world, across time, Fall seeks the stone's secret. But has he found a cure for himself or unleashed a final curse on all mankind?

    Thoughts: Jeremiah Fall is a soldier that has traveled a very long road. On a mission... traveling far and wide to take back his humanity. He seeks an ebony stone. But will it hold the cure he is looking for or damn the whole world.

    The story begins in 1799- but Jeremiah's journey begins in 1644. I don't think I've come across a vampire like Jeremiah, he's quite special. I reveled in both the vampire and historical parts of the story. But it did take me a bit longer than normal to finish this book. There were a few slow spots for me, but it was absolutely worth it. Blood Prophecy turned out to be a fantastic tale filled with action and adventure. Stefan Petrucha weaves a dark and stunning story of fantasy & history.  A must read.

    Score: 5 Stars

    Author Website: http://www.petrucha.com/



    Thursday, December 16, 2010

    Interview/Giveaway with Marissa Dobson

    I first met Marissa as a fellow blogger. It's a pleasure to welcome her on my blog as a debut author.

    Hi Marissa, Welcome to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have you here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?
    First let me say thank you for having me. I am honored to be here. Thank you Anna for having me.

    When it comes to me there isn’t much to tell. I am nowhere near as interesting as the characters I write about. I am just your average twenty something housewife with a reading fetish and an active imagination. I am originally from the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, but moved away when I met my husband. I have two wonderful writing buddies, Max (a cocker spaniel) and Dawne (a beagle mix).

    Your newest release- The Twelve Seductive Days of Christmas, is featured in the Believe anthology can you tell us a little about it and the series?
    The Twelve Seductive Days of Christmas is a sweet romantic story. Jasmine has a rocky past, she has been burned by love and family before, and now she has a daughter to worry about. She isn't looking for anything, just a quiet place that she can raise her daughter.

    On the other hand Logan Clarke fell in love with the mysterious Jasmine long ago, hearing stories from her grandmother. And now that Jasmine is finally here, he knows he’s in love for sure.

    Snowbound in a cottage, twelve days before Christmas, does Logan have enough time to convince Jasmine of love at first sight? And can Jasmine let go of her past, and let Logan into her heart?

    What is your writing day like?
    My writing day, boy that depends a little on what I need to do for my review site, and how much I got done the day before. Normally after my husband leaves in the morning I have some coffee and get stuff done around the house or work on my review site. I am not a morning person, which means I don’t write my best until around 10am or so. Normally I start writing around 10am and keep working on it until my husband gets home. I try to stop writing when my husband gets home from work between 3 and 5 so we can spend some time together. I do some writings in the evenings if I am on a roll or really behind, but normally that time is saved for reading.

    What was it like learning your story was gonna be published?
    Just thinking about hearing the news brings a smile to my face. I was cuddled up on the couch reading when my cell phone went off letting me know I had an email. I was engrossed in my book, I was going to wait and check the email later but for some reason I couldn’t get back into the book, I was wondering what that email was. Finally I gave in and checked the email. It was telling me that it was going to be included in the Believe anthology and I started screaming. I couldn’t believe it. I was so excited. It was a dream come true for me. It is something I have worked so hard for and to see it really happen was amazing.

    When your not writing what kind of books do you like to read?
    When I am not writing I read just about everything. I love paranormal romance, and urban fantasy. I read anything with some romance in it. I grew up reading horror, mystery, thrillers, and things like that so I still read those.

    Which authors have influenced this the most?
    Now this is a hard question. I know so many wonderful authors and they have all inspired me in some way. But I have to say one of the first author’s that influenced me was Nora Roberts. Her books grab you from the beginning and make you care about the characters until the very end. I wanted to do that. However it was Terri Grimes that gave me the encouragement and final push to submit something.

    What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?
    Three things I must have when I am writing… The first and more important is quite. I can’t write with music on or anything like that. Second, would be something to drink. Lately that has been coffee or tea since it is cold outside, in the summer it is normally coffee in the morning and ice water later. The third one would be hard candy. When I am stumped I pop a piece of hard candy and think it over. Normally that helps.

    A lot of times I wonder how some authors juggle blogging, reading and their writing.  How do you manage it?
    For me this is all about time management. Trust me there are days where it doesn’t go well and I feel so far behind but I just have to stick with it. Everything I do, whether it’s my review site, or stuff for my writing it is something I love to do. I divide my day into sections. First thing in the morning I do things I need to do, along with working on my review site. Then from 10am until my husband gets home I write, and then after dinner is when I read and working on reviews. If I am behind or I am on a roll with my writing then I will do a little in the evenings. Basically every day I set a goal on what I would like to get done, including word count, books read, reviews done, everything. If I don’t finish it then it is the first thing I do the next morning.

    Are there any real life people that have inspired the characters in your story?
    In Believe I can’t say any real life people inspired the characters, but I can say that some of the names are special. Vivian is Jasmine’s Grandmother in Believe, and I named her that after my Grandmother, but other than that I can’t say that any of the others were inspired by real life people. However the cocker spaniel in the story is inspired by my cocker spaniel Floppie who passed away in October.

    What is up next? Do you have any projects in the works that you can tell about?
    My current work in progress (WIP) is another sweet romance

    ~Want to learn more about Marissa, check out her website, blog and Facebook. ~
    _____________________________________________________

    The Twelve Seductive Days of Christmas
    By: Marissa Dobson
    in the Believe anthology

    Jasmine Pierce has been burned by love and family before, and now she has a daughter to worry about. She isn't looking for anything, just a quiet place that she can raise her daughter.

    Logan Clarke fell in love with the mysterious Jasmine long ago, hearing stories from her grandmother. And now that Jasmine is finally here, he knows he’s in love for sure. 

    Snowbound in a cottage, twelve days before Christmas, does Logan have enough time to convince Jasmine of love at first sight? And can Jasmine let go of her past, and let Logan into her heart?


    _____________________________________________________
    GIVEAWAY:
    Thanks to Marissa I have a digital copy of Believe to giveaway to one lucky winner. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to everyone! The winner will be announced on December 22nd.  Good Luck!

    Wednesday, December 15, 2010

    Guest Blog/Giveaway with Kathy Kulig

    It's a pleasure to welcome author Kathy Kulig to the blog. Her latest title is out now and called Dragon Witch.

    The Irresistible Paranormal Hero

    Why are paranormal/fantasy romances so popular right now. Fantasy is escapism but so is any fictional story but a fantasy world takes us farther away from our troubled everyday world. When the media bombards us with the grim reality of life, fiction provides a safe journey by following strong characters as they overcome impossible obstacles and win over the bad guys. These stories give us hope that happy endings are truly possible.

    The heroes and heroines in these stories are larger than life and are so unlike the average, everyday men and women in a reader’s life, yet many of us relate to them, even imagine ourselves in their shoes, because there is some flaw or down-to-earth quality that gets us rooting for them. The disasters and troubles these heroes must face are on a world scale. What a relief to see someone else has bigger problem than us.

    In paranormal stories the heroes are mostly alpha, and may include a few fangs, claws, fur or some other supernatural aspect—a new twist to the image of our “dream guy”. These are tortured heroes. Who can resist a hunky tortured hero with a heroic cause or “issues” that only the right woman can understand?

    The appeal of writing in a fantasy/paranormal genre is that an author can explore the human condition without the constrictions of the real world. The elements of the fantastical add to the conflicts between characters which allows for some interesting dynamics, something that usually can’t occur in a contemporary, real-world story.

    Besides books, themed stories in paranormal, fantasy and Sci-Fi are popular now in movies and TV shows too. Creator of Battlestar Galactica and Caprica is making a Sci-Fi pilot described as an “Adult Harry Potter set in a world ruled not by science but by magic.”

    Neil Gaiman’s comic book series “The Sandman” is close to being adapted for a TV show. It’s about Morpheus, the Lord of the Dreaming, a deity who personifies dreams. “Three Inches” is a pilot about a former government agent who takes on a team of “super” heroes—people with unusual powers—in order to fight evil.

    L5 is a hard Sci-Fi miniseries—a futuristic earth, somewhat dystopian-like. The Event and Fringe are going on now and very popular. These are just a few, but if you watch them check out the characters. I think you’ll see especially strong female characters and alpha male characters in many of them.

    In romance books, we’re seeing a number of subgenres in the paranormal realm: urban fantasy, dark fantasy, dystopian fantasy, futuristic, Sci-Fi romance, Steampunk, Cyberpunk, etc. Many of these subgenres have really been around for a while but were grouped either under Sci-Fi or fantasy. Couldn’t Ray Bradbury’s book Fahrenheit 451 be called dystopian fiction? And some of Dean Koontz suspense novels could be called dark fantasy. Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a mystery series first published in 1887 has the flavor of Steampunk.

    It’s usually up to the publisher what sub-genre a novel will be labeled. As a long time fan of speculative fiction and romance, I’m thrilled to see such a variety available to read, and I’m having a blast coming up with story ideas to write and the irresistible characters to play the parts.

    To learn more about author Kathy Kulig and her books visit: http://www.kathykulig.com or her blog: http://www.kathykulig.blogspot.com
    Please follow her on Twitter and Facebook too.
    http://www.twitter.com/kathykulig
    http://www.facebook.com/kathykulig 

    DRAGON WITCH
    By: Kathy Kulig

    Out Now!

    Biologist and witch, Jaida Chel combines nature magick with herbal science to protect Kai, the last shapeshifting dragon on her world of Somerled. But when Captain Brayden Stokes reenters her life, not only is Kai’s life at stake, but so is Jaida’s secured position in the colony. Brayden and Jaida can’t resist the sexual heat between them, even though she knows a relationship would be doomed. Fleet pilots don’t stay planetside for long.

    Jaida is torn between Brayden and her dragon and companion, Kai. When Kai morphs into a human twice a year, his sex drive is ravenous. He must mate for twenty-four hours or die. Unrestrained passion between Kai and Jaida temps Brayden into a forbidden encounter. With Jaida’s sassy, wicked ways, the three cross boundaries, exploring eroticism beyond their imagination. When secrets and betrayals are revealed, Brayden must risk everything for one last chance at love.

     _____________________________________________________
    GIVEAWAY:
    Thanks to Kathy I have a digital copy of Dragon Witch for one lucky winner. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to everyone. (International readers too).  The winner will be announced on December 22nd.  Good Luck!

    Tuesday, December 14, 2010

    Cover Discovery

    Release Date: April 5, 2011

    Release Date: April 26, 2011


    Release Date: May 3, 2011


    Release Date: July 1, 2011


    Release Date: July 5, 2011


    Release Date: August 8, 2011

    Winners - Wolf Fever

    and the winners are...

    jmspettoli

    Congrats! Please send your mailing information here:
    annasbookblog@gmail.com
    You have 5 days to claim your prize

    The winners were chosen through Random.org

    Monday, December 13, 2010

    [ARC Review] - Out For Blood

    Title: Out For Blood
    Author: Alyxandra Harvey
    Series: The Drake Chronicles
    Genre: Young Adult
    Release Date: December 21, 2010

    I received this book for review from Bloomsbury/Walker Books for Young Readers.

    Summary:  Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends—or even more.

    When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?

    Thoughts: Hunter is a vampire hunter, as well as every family member before her. She is one of the most talented students at Helios-Ra Academy. When she gets invited to meet The Drake Family, she learns a shocking lesson... that not all vampires evil... some are very friendly.  Students at the Helios-Ra Academy start falling ill. Hunter is sure that it's someone on the inside.  With the help of the gorgeous Quinn Drake, she hopes to find the culprit.

    Out for Blood is an action-filled story with romance and danger.  I thought this was a excellent installment.   Quinn and Hunter fun couple to read about, they compliment each other nicely. I loved Quinn's flirtatious nature.  Hunter was great as well. Serious about her training, but also knows that there is more out there than killing vampires. 

    The Drake Chronicles is an all around great series. But what I really like about it is that we get two POVs, each from both leading characters.  I think having both POVs brings a lot more to the story then if it just the one character. 

    Highly recommend this one. With these last two installments I thought I had a feel where the story would go - but each time Ms. Harvey surprises me. Definitely keeps the series fresh and addicting. I look forward to reading book four.

    Score: 4 Stars.

    Author Website: http://www.alyxandraharvey.com/

    Upcoming Releases:
    Haunting Violet- 2011
    The Drake Chronicles #4- TBA

    Sunday, December 12, 2010

    [Promo] - The Christmas Fantasy

    Feeling the Christmas spirit, you might want to check out...

    The Christmas Fantasy
    By: KT Grant [website]

    OUT NOW!

    Book Description: On a mission to lose her virginity before her thirtieth birthday on Christmas Day, Mandy Lockeheart plans to seduce the only man she’s ever loved, her brother’s best friend, firefighter Jackson Montgomery. With the sexy new body she’s worked hard to earn, she’s certain she can convince him to fulfill her fantasies.

    When Mandy comes to him with her sexy proposal, Jackson can’t refuse her adorable seduction. Unfortunately, Mandy’s brother doesn’t want anyone playing around with his baby sister. Jackson must choose between respecting his friend wishes and making love to his perfect Christmas present.

    Between Mandy’s occasionally poor body image and Jackson’s honor, the lovers must fight to realize their Christmas Fantasy.

    Where to Buy:
    Decadent Publishing


    Other titles by KT Grant:
    The Gentleman's Loving Spy (in Once Upon a Threesome)
    Lovestruck
    For the Love of Mollie
    The Princess's Bride
    The Claiming of Suzy
    The Prince's Groom

    Saturday, December 11, 2010

    In My Mailbox [83]

     In My Mailbox was started over at The Story Siren.
    Here is what I got this past week...

    Review:

    By Royal Decree- Kate Emerson
    Born at Midnight- C.C. Hunter
    Blood Prophecy- Stefan Petrucha

    Thank you to Stefan Petrucha and Macmillan.  Also Thank You to Simon & Schuster for sending me a finished copy of By Royal Decree. You can find my review here.

    Won:

    A while back I won a contest for a vial of perfume (I picked Caspian) inspired by Jessica Verday's The Hollow series. Thanks to both Jessica and Teens Read and Write.  Part of the picture is blurry... but the white card says Abby's Hollow, which you can visit here.


    Book Fairy:

    I got a package from my book fairy, Thank you AmyJ.  She also sent this neat book holder. :)

    The Lost Saint- Bree Despain
    The Devouring- Simon Holt
    Snowbound- Larissa Ione
    Entice- Carrie Jones
    What the Dickens- Gregory Maguire
    Devoured- Amanda Marrone
    Firespell- Chloe Neill
    Paranormalcy- Kiersten White

    What did you get this week?
    Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

    Friday, December 10, 2010

    [ARC Review] - The Secret History of Elizabeth Tudor, Vampire Slayer

    Title: The Secret History of Elizabeth Tudor, Vampire Slayer
    Author: Lucy Weston
    Genre: Paranormal/Historical Fiction
    Release Date: December 21, 2010

    I received this book for review from Simon & Schuster.

    Summary:  Sovereign Power. Eternal Pleasure.

    Revealed at last in this new vampire saga for the ages: the true, untold story of the “Virgin Queen” and her secret war against the Vampire King of England. . . .

    On the eve of her coronation, Elizabeth Tudor is summoned to the tomb of her mother, Anne Boleyn, to learn the truth about her bloodline—and her destiny as a Slayer. Born to battle the bloodsucking fiends who ravage the night, and sworn to defend her beloved realm against all enemies, Elizabeth soon finds herself stalked by the most dangerous and seductive vampire of all.

    He is Mordred, bastard son of King Arthur, who sold his soul to destroy his father. After centuries in hiding, he has arisen determined to claim the young Elizabeth as his Queen. Luring her into his world of eternal night, Mordred tempts Elizabeth with the promise of everlasting youth and beauty, and vows to protect her from all enemies. Together, they will rule over a golden age for vampires in which humans will exist only to be fed upon. Horrified by his intentions, Elizabeth embraces her powers as a Slayer even as she realizes that the greatest danger comes from her own secret desire to yield to Mordred . . . to bare her throat in ecstasy and allow the vampire king to drink deeply of her royal blood.

    As told by Lucy Weston, the vampire prey immortalized in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this spellbinding account will capture your heart and soul—forever.

    Thoughts: Hours before she is about to be crown the Queen of England, Elizabeth Tudor learns the secret of her bloodline and her destiny of being a vampire slayer.  On hearing this news she brushes it aside until she comes face to face with  the ever seductive vampire, Mordred. 

    I've become a fast fan of alternative histories.  The love the twists and suspense that comes from the mixing of history with fiction. I have always been intrigued with the Tudor dynasty so I was elated to receive this book for review.

    The Secret History is an enthralling read. Creative and exciting. I loved the melding of Tudor history and the folklore of King Arthur.  Elizabeth was a strong Queen and a women ahead of her time. This book is written in such a way that yes,  she could have pulled off being a vampire slayer as well.  The only thing I didn't like was the manner in which Elizabeth killed vampires, I thought it a bit strange. Most Tudor fans will enjoy this story, especially fans that have a love for the paranormal.

    Score: 4 Stars

    Author Website: http://www.lucywestonvampire.com/







    Wednesday, December 8, 2010

    Guest Blog/Giveaway with Terry Spear

    I'm happy to welcome Terry Spear back to the blog...

    Who Are My Favorite Characters in My Series?

    Hi, Anna, thanks for having me back!

    First, do you know what big teeth my characters have when they’re in wolf form? And yes, I do know every one of them personally, and they’re all avid readers. I wouldn’t be surprised if they didn’t have Google Alerts to see if anyone says anything about them on the Internet.

    So because of that, I have to very tactfully decline revealing which are my favorites because that would get me into really big trouble. Werewolves talk amongst themselves in a pack, you know. And some werewolves, I’m not mentioning names here, but some have a real reputation for spreading the word about juicy gossip. One of them is even in Wolf Fever, the focus of my blog today, since it’s just been released.

    I think I’ll talk about something that’s safer—like how much I love ALL my characters in every one of the books. Yeah, it’s a cop-out, but I’ve got to maintain the peace.

    I love Carol because no matter how difficult life is, she doesn’t let it get her down. She tries to work out the difficulties she’s facing that no one can really understand unless they live in her shoes, while trying to figure out what Chester Ryan McKinley’s deal is.

    Now, he’s hot. He’s an alpha gray male leader from another Colorado town who can’t quit thinking of her 24/7. And he’s even got Scottish roots and goes to Scottish games and proves just how hot he is, which intrigues Carol even more. Yet he STILL insists all he’s interested in is if she’s truly psychic. With his scientific private investigator brain, he doesn’t believe in hocus pocus, and just knows she can’t have paranormal connections.

    And of course there are the Silver brothers—Darien, the pack leader of Silver Town, and Jake, next eldest of the triplets, and Tom, the youngest by five minutes or so. Darien is in charge and stern and unyielding, or tries to be, but his mate, Lelandi, often changes his mind. Jake delights in teasing Carol, yet there’s some intrigue there and not a little bit of protectiveness. Tom is the peacemaker, but he lets it be known he doesn’t care for Ryan’s interference with Carol in the least. Tom and Jake are very eligible bachelors, but if you’re thinking of making a pass at Jake, by Dreaming of the Wolf, book 8 and in stores next Fall, I’m pretty sure it’s a foregone conclusion, he’s taken. But Tom now is a ready bachelor. Very ready.

    Sam and Silva are still playing games with each other on the sidelines. I’m thinking I need to shake them up to get them to finally commit or give each other up.

    The barber from Destiny of the Wolf? He’s a goof, but I love him all the same. And Matthew, the male nurse, he’s got dark secrets, so there’s no telling what’s truly going on with him.

    Darien’s mate, Lelandi? She rules beside her mate, and helps to soften situations with Darien when he gets a little overbearing and demanding with the pack.

    Doc Mitchell, the veterinarian, proves his worth as a wolf. And the deputy and sheriff of Silver Town, I couldn’t do without. The fun part? They’ll all be back in Dreaming of the Wolf, but that time it will be Jake’s show.

    So just when it seems everything is settled in Silver Town, the flu epidemic hits the pack and how they deal with it, while Carol is trying to resolve her personal issues of not being able to control her visions, or the shapeshifting equation and the situation with Ryan—brings me to the question: what more could go wrong?

    Lots.

    My manager always tells me when I ask this at work, “Don’t ask.”

    Thanks so much, Anna, for having me back!

    My question to readers is: If a pack leader set his sights on you, what would he have to do to convince you he was the right one for you?

    WOLF FEVER
    by TERRY SPEAR--IN STORES DECEMBER 2010

    She may be his destiny, but she's not his first choice…

    Hospital nurse and newly turned red werewolf Carol Woods is being pressured by her pack leader to find a mate, but he's the only guy in the pack who remotely attracts her… Why is he playing so hard to get?

    The fate of the pack rests on his shoulders…

    Gray pack leader Ryan McKinley doesn't want anything to do with Carol unless she's willing to embrace her wolf nature—no matter how beautiful she is.

    But when a virus infects the local lupus garou pack, Ryan realizes just how wrong he's been not to seize the moment with the woman he's come to love. And now, it may be too late…

    Praise for Terry Spear's To Tempt the Wolf:
    “Ms. Spear's has spun a web of drama that pulled me in...
    Get it; read it; you'll love it!”
    Romance Reader at Heart

    “A paranormal romp that sizzles! Action-packed romance and suspense-filled plot add up to pure magic. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Terry Spear is a great addition to the paranormal genre!”
                                                                   —Armchair Interviews

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
    With almost 56,000 copies sold, Terry Spear is a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves. She received her MBA from Monmouth University. An eclectic writer, she dabbles in the paranormal as well as writing historical and true life stories for both teen and adult audiences. Spear lives in Crawford, Texas. For more information, please visit http://www.terryspear.com/.

    GREAT TERRY SPEAR eBOOK PROMOTIONS:
    Heart of the Wolf—FREE eBook from 12/7/2010-12/13/2010
    ·    Heart of the Wolf

    Terry Spear Backlist—eBooks ONLY 2.99 from 12/7/2010-12/13/2010
    ·    Destiny of the Wolf
    ·    To Tempt the Wolf
    ·    Legend of the White Wolf


    _____________________________________________________
    GIVEAWAY:

    Thanks to Sourcebooks I have two copies of Wolf Fever to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Don't forget to answer Terry's question above. Open to U.S. and Canada. The winners will be announced on December 14th

    Tuesday, December 7, 2010

    [Review] - Dragon Witch

    Title: Dragon Witch
    Author: Kathy Kulig
    Genre: SciFi Romance/Erotica
    Release Date: September 15, 2011

    I received this book for review from the author.

    Summary:
      Biologist and witch, Jaida Chel combines nature magick with herbal science to protect Kai, the last shapeshifting dragon on her world of Somerled. But when Captain Brayden Stokes reenters her life, not only is Kai’s life at stake, but so is Jaida’s secured position in the colony. Brayden and Jaida can’t resist the sexual heat between them, even though she knows a relationship would be doomed. Fleet pilots don’t stay planetside for long.

    Jaida is torn between Brayden and her dragon and companion, Kai. When Kai morphs into a human twice a year, his sex drive is ravenous. He must mate for twenty-four hours or die. Unrestrained passion between Kai and Jaida temps Brayden into a forbidden encounter. With Jaida’s sassy, wicked ways, the three cross boundaries, exploring eroticism beyond their imagination. When secrets and betrayals are revealed, Brayden must risk everything for one last chance at love.

    Thoughts: This story has a little bit of something for everyone. A futuristic setting, lush- erotic scenes with paranormal and fantasy elements.  Now normally I'm not a fan of threesomes, but this one worked for me. All the different elements sucked me in.  Dragon Witch is one hot story.  I loved this one. It was sexy, sweet and definitely an adventure. The situation between the witch, dragon-shifter and the fleet captain was intriguing.  The ending perfect.

    Score: 4 Stars

    Author Website: http://www.kathykulig.com/

    Other titles by Kathy Kulig:
    Seducing the Stones
    Wild Jade
    Desert of the Damned
    Damned and Desired
    Dragon Witch
    Secret Soiree


    Where to buy:
    All Romance Ebooks: Multi-formats
    Amazon: Kindle
    Barnes & Noble: Nook
    Ellora's Cave: Multi-formats

    Monday, December 6, 2010

    [ARC Review] - By Royal Decree by Kate Emerson

    Title: By Royal Decree
    Author: Kate Emerson
    Series: Secrets of the Tudor Court
    Genre: Historical Fiction
    Release Date: December 14, 2010

    I received this book for review from Simon & Schuster.

    Summary:  Charming. Desirable. Forbidden. Brought to court with other eligible young noblewomen by the decree of King Henry VIII, lovely Elizabeth "Bess" Brooke realizes for the first time that beauty can be hazardous. Although Bess has no desire to wed the aging king, she and her family would have little choice if Henry's eye were to fall on her.

    And other dangers exist as well, for Bess has caught the interest of dashing courtier Will Parr. Bess finds Will's kisses as sweet as honey, but marriage between them may be impossible. Will is a divorced man, and remarriage is still prohibited. Bess and Will must hope that the king can be persuaded to issue a royal decree allowing Will to marry again . . . but to achieve their goal, the lovers will need royal favor. Amid the swirling alliances of royalty and nobles, Bess and Will perform a dangerous dance of palace intrigue and pulse-pounding passions.

    Brought to glowing life by the talented Kate Emerson, and seen through the eyes of a beautiful young noblewoman, By Royal Decree illuminates the lives of beautiful young courtiers in and out of the rich and compelling drama of the Tudor court.

    Thoughts: In 1542 a young noblewoman named Elizabeth Brooke (Bess) arrives at the court of King Henry VIII.  Only 15 she is there along with a number of women, as possible choices to be the next Queen.  Not having any interest in the decaying King - she tries to keep her head down. Before heading back home she does catch the interest of William Parr, brother to Catherine Parr.  The moment they see each other it's love and so begins a dangerous and wonderful love story.

    By Royal Decree is a pretty amazing read. Intrigue and passion drive this story. I loved it. Rich in historic detail. Ms. Emerson's writing pulls you in from page one and makes you feel like your really there in the Tudor court.  This is the third book in the Secrets of the Tudor Court, telling the story of Elisabeth Brooke and William Parr.  I enjoyed Bess & Will's story. They went to through hell to be together and through all the pain and heartache they believed it was worth it.  This is only the second time reading Kate Emerson, but she has become a favorite. If your a fan of Tudors, you won't want to miss this book.

    The book also includes maps, family trees and a Who's who of the Tudor Court. They were great tools to have while reading the book.  As I said above this book is part of the series, but can definitely be read as a stand alone story.

    Score: 5 Stars

    Author Website: http://www.kateemersonhistoricals.com/

    Secrets of the Tudor Courts:
    The Pleasure Palace
    Between Two Queens
    By Royal Decree

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