FLASHFIRE is the 7th installment in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. The continuing saga of the Pyr vs Slayer in the war to save the human race, and dominance in the world of dragons features the elusive Lorenzo and his Firestorm. Lorenzo wants nothing to do with his Firestorm, because it has come at an inconvenient time in his life–he does not need to find his mate just before he disappears from the face of the earth.
Cassie Redmond has come to Las Vegas with her friend Stacy. The cancellation of her wedding, was not going to derail her honeymoon, so she and her friend would take full advantage of the hotel and tickets–Cassie would make this a working vacation. But when sparks literally fly between Cassie and the gorgeous illusionist Lorenzo, she knows this isn’t any ordinary magic show. And when he shifts into a shimmering golden dragon, her job as a reporter, has taken on new meaning.
Lorenzo is surprised when, it is HIS Firestorm that hits during the eclipse, but is even more shocked that he was unable to control his change during a live presentation of his Vegas act of illusion. His plans to disappear during a live taping of a burial stunt, have now been hindered by the arrival of his mate and the need to sate the Firestorm. Following a night of insatiable sex between Lorenzo and Cassie, he realizes he wants nothing to do with the responsibilities of having a mate or a family–He still blames his father for the death of his mother, and does not want the responsibility of having to worry about a mate and child, every time he is called away.
Lorenzo is a reluctant dragon. He refuses to join the Pyr in their fight against the Slayers, and had all but given-up shifting, but finding his mate and the realization that she is now pregnant, has put them both in a dangerous position. The Slayers as well as the Pyr will be attracted to his Firestorm, and the resulting confrontation will risk both mother and child. To further complicate matters, a Slayer named Jean-Paul has now involved Cassie’s friend Stacy in their game of good vs evil. When Lorenzo scents 2 other Slayers (Chen and Balthazar) in the vicinity of his mate, he calls to the Pyr for assistance. Lorenzo is without much knowledge of the Pyr’s history, as well, he does not believe the many myths and legends surrounding Dragon lore, therefore, the need to ask for aid from his own kind, is both humbling and enlightening.
Like the other storylines in this series, there is a struggle between the Pyr and the Slayers. Chen, an ancient Slayer, seeks to find those dragons, who are having difficulty with their allegiances to the Pyr, offering them a chance to fight against those, who claim to protect earth. But Chen is searching for the ‘bones’ of the dead Pyr—to make ‘Dragon’s Blood Powder’-a powerful aphrodisiac and a means to control.
The appearance of Marco, another ancient Pyr, looking for the Darkfire crystal puts Lorenzo on edge. The crystal has been in Lorenzo’s possession for safe-keeping, but it seems, his ailing father has been playing games with their hoarde. The missing crystal has, further complicated Lorenzo’s need to disappear. Slayers, the Pyr, missing crystals, his Firestorm and now a child and mate, push Lorenzo to the edge of his patience. The need to disappear is now more of a necessity than a stunt.
FLASHFIRE is another great story in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. Once again, we see Erik and his struggles as leader of the Pyr; Thorulf is missing, but the others are not too worried; and we get a glimpse at Brandt, a dragon, who was not too happy with the role he played in Lorenzo’s fight with the Slayers. We become aware of the other Pyr, through conversation only, and we are apprised of their whereabouts when necessity dictates, although, they gather for Lorenzo’s unveiling in Venice. I missed the interactions between the Pyr-I was hoping for the appearances of Donovan, Quinn, Delaney and the others, but the celebration in Italy is the only time we get re-acquainted with the characters from the previous story lines. EMBER’S KISS is the next book in the Dragonfire series-Brandon and Liz.
The basic plot of a romance novel involves a man and a woman fall in love and live happily ever after. Typically, the two don’t get along at first and face many obstacles, but these are always resolved by the last page. Romance novels gain their variety by different types of characters and settings. Some of the more popular varieties are:
Historical Romance
A man and a woman living in the past meet and do it*. No one dies of dysentery.
Paranormal Romance
A woman falls in love with a vampire. They do it.
Sci-fi Romance
A man and a woman do it. In space.
*Although it is always hinted at, actual portrayal of sex is usually limited to the erotic romance novels genre. This type contains more graphic sex scenes, although they are really not that graphic. Most of the other types just have kissing, though.
The male lead character of a romance novel is either a cowboy, a pirate, a member of the military, a vampire, or all of the above. He is usually experienced in the ways of females, which is okay because herpes does not exist in the romance novel universe. He has a reckless and dashing personality that the strong and flighty heroine finds highly irritating, until she doesn’t.
He is unfailing tall and handsome. Despite his highly masculine pursuits that in real life would involve going unwashed for several days or weeks, he always has impeccable grooming. This grooming occurs naturally, of course, because waxing your chest isn’t manly.
The Woman
The woman is extraordinarily beautiful, although no one really appreciates how beautiful she is except for the hero. She is usually a virgin, by choice, because she is far too strong to fall for a man. Except, of course, for the one man who captures her heart. Her initial irritation at this man is of course just a disguise for the fact that she is wildly in love with him.
Romance Novel Controversies
The innocence and optimism of romance novel plots makes them the subject of much scorn among many, who argue that they create unrealistic expectations in women by implying complete fulfillment in love.
We think that the idea that romance novels could be bad for women is itself unrealistic, because what young woman wouldn’t want to be ravished by pirates?
Another common complaint is that the plots glorify authoritarian males and quasi-rape. This theme can apparently be seen in titles like Captive Bride and Bargained Into Her Boss’s Bed
A feminist romance publisher founded in response to such claims, which released such titles as Domestic Partnership with the Yoga Teacher Who Quit Work To Be A Stay At Home Dad and The Man Who Followed All Of The Workplace Sexual Harrassment Guidelines, was less than successful.
Since romance novels presumably provide a view into the psyches of millions of female readers, you may be tempted, if so inclined, to look into them for tips for pursuing women. If you do so, please keep the following in mind:
If a woman is irritated by your presence, it might because she is a repressed, lonely dreamer yearning for the true love she feels for you but denies. But it is far more likely that she isn’t amused by your psoriasis and extensive quoting of Family Guy.
“Bodice rippers” is another popular title for romance novels, but in real life you should hold off on ripping women’s bodices. Not only is it illegal, those things are very expensive.
Long hair is a common feature on romance novel covers, but she probably won’t be impressed unless you have actually washed it in the last six months. Similarly, open shirts are not that attractive if you haven’t done anything about the Dorito pieces in your chest hair.
Although pirates are a common theme, shouting ‘Yarr! I’m a pirate!’ will probably not make many young women swoon with desire.
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I think this speaks for itself……my mind can’t seem to stop wandering back to the image of Doritos in the chest hair……ewwwwwwww
BITTEN is the first book in Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series. With the introduction of Elena Michaels, Clayton and Jeremy Danvers and the Pack, Kelley uses first person narration, in most of her Otherworld storylines, to let the reader into the minds of the characters. Elena is the principle narrator for BITTEN, but through descriptive narrations, we can feel the pain and emotion that each of the characters experienced throughout the storylines.
Elena Michaels is a bitten werewolf, and werewolf lore specifically notes, there are NO female wolves, yet Elena is the only ‘made’ female wolf in existence. Turned by a bite from her werewolf lover Clayton Danvers, Elena spirals out of control and eventually, after years of fighting and warring with her mate, Elena moves to Toronto, Canada to start a new life away from the Pack. When a rogue mutt (werewolf not belonging to any pack) starts a killing spree, Elena and the other Pack members are called back to Stonehaven, home of the Pack leader and Alpha Jeremy Danvers and his enforcer (and adopted son) Clayton. Not ready to face either man, Elena tries to ignore Jeremy’s summons, but truth be told, Elena must return , as she is Pack. Leaving behind a confused fiance, and a heavy heart, Elena heads back to Stonehaven and the only man, who will ever, truly know and love, the real Elena Michaels–Clayton Danvers.
With so much history between Elena and Clay, the other Pack mates, and best friends to Clay and Jeremy respectively, Nicolas and his father, Antonio Sorrentino, are left in the precarious position of watching from the sidelines as tension mounts. Not wanting to continue her relationship with Clay, Elena tries to avoid all confrontations with her mate. But like wolves in the wild, there is only one mate for each werewolf, and with Elena, the only known female werewolf, there is much rivalry from ‘outside’ wolves, in other areas and packs. Elena must continuously fend off advances from other males and potential life-threatening situations because of her position in the Pack. But when fellow pack-members Peter Myers, and close friend Logan Jonsen are murdered, Elena makes it her goal to seek justice and retribution, regardless of the directive of the Pack Alpha.
There is much speculation surrounding Logan and Peter’s murders, and different names are mentioned, including former and wannabe Pack members. But when more bodies start to appear on the Stonehaven property, Jeremy and the Pack must go hunting. Karl Marsten, Zachary Cain, Daniel Santos and Jimmy Koenig are a few names suggested as potential suspects, but it isn’t until Elena is forced to move back to Toronto, for her own safety, do the names and suspects begin to add up. Much to her dismay and disappointment, Clay is sent to Toronto as protection for Elena, but she sees Clayton’s form of protection, as an interference. When she returns to her apartment after a day at work, she finds her fiance injured and Clay missing. Her only clue–is the wedding band Clay has worn for over 10 years (a symbol of his fidelity to Elena), left behind with a note, demanding Elena in exchange for Clayton’s safe return. The scent belonged to Daniel Santos.
When Elena (along with Nick Sorrentino) arranges a meeting with Daniel, she is surprised when wannabe-pack wolf Karl Marsten is present. Not knowing Karl’s true motives, Elena is curious as to his involvement with the former Pack member Daniel Santos. Unbeknownst to the Pack, Elena offers herself up, in exchange for a severely injured and drugged Clayton-only to realize, she isn’t the true target. Daniel is seeking revenge for his father’s death (years before), at the hands of Clayton, and was using Karl Marsten as a means to an end.
Following Daniel’s death, and Clayton’s subsequent release, Elena is compelled to return to Stonehaven to aid in Clay’s recovery. But it doesn’t take anyone long to realize, that Elena is still and always has been, in love with her mate. When she returns to Toronto, Clay follows, fearing she has left him for good. A ‘chance’ meeting between Clay and Elena, on the sidewalk outside of her Toronto apartment, reveals the reality of the situation-Elena had returned to say goodbye to her ex-fiance, and was heading back to Stonehaven to start a new life with Clay and the Pack.
I love this series. I have looked forward to every new release of Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series. With her many novellas and anthologies, Kelley has revealed plenty of background information and delved into the lives of the werewolves and other supernatural beings throughout her Otherworld series. I was especially thrilled with her Men of the Otherworld collection of short stores, as well as her Tales of the Otherworld. Both of these books are contain ‘prequels’ to the current storylines, as well as continuing stories, and by way of flashbacks and flash-forwards, the story arcs come full circle. Most of the reader’s questions are answered.
STOLEN is the second book in Kelley Armstrong’s-Women of the Otherworld series. Elena Michaels, the only female werewolf in existence, wants to lead a normal life ( or as close to normal as a ‘made’ female werewolf is able) with her mate and family, but a group of ‘researchers’ and the billionaire who heads the institute, have other plans for Elena and the world of supernatural beings.
Following a lead on a story about werewolf sightings, Elena is introduced to Paige and Ruth Winterbourne, mother and daughter witches who sit on the Council for Supernatural Beings. As surprised as Elena is, that such a council exists (let alone witches), she is more surprised to find out that the ‘supernatural’ are hunted by billionaire Ty Winsloe, and then experimented upon and held in custody for his own personal collection.
After a failed kidnapping attempt by Winsloe’s men, Elena and the Pack make a decision-it is time to meet the Council of Supernatural Beings and find out what they know about Winsloe and his compound of vigilante hunters. Jeremy Danvers (Pack alpha) and his adopted son Clayton (Elena’s mate) make an appearance alongside Elena at the emergency Council meeting, where we are introduced to Adam Vasic (a half-demon whose powers involve fire) and Cassandra, a vampire who has eyes for Clay. The reader knows, we will see these characters at a future date, with stories of their own.
When Elena is abducted and held prisoner at the compound, she realizes she isn’t alone. Ruth Winterbourne and an assortment of other supernatural beings are already imprisoned, trying desperately to communicate with one another. But it isn’t until Ruth dies under mysterious circumstances, and Elena is introduced to Savannah Levine, a young and powerful 12 year old witch, that she makes the decision to attempt freedom.
Meanwhile, following several ‘physical exams’ and a threat against her mate, Elena becomes aware of one of the true reasons behind her abduction-to ‘make’ another werewolf. Sondra Bauer, a compound examiner and scientist, has injected herself with saliva, procured from one of the physical exams. Without the aid of a Pack, Sondra’s change to werewolf is anything but successful-her body is unable to handle the many changes and when attempting to escape, she is killed by the very guards-she once controlled.
We are introduced to several supernatural characters including demons Xavier Reese and Leah O’Donnell, a chameleon shifter Armen Haig, and vampire Aaron Darnell, someone from Cassandra’s past and recent present. Using Paige’s witch powers and an attempt at telepathic communication, Jeremy and Clay are able to contact Elena, but Clay refuses to believe that Paige has any telepathic powers, beyond her ability to irritate. When the connection is broken, Elena becomes distraught and through dreams, she is able to connect with Clay, only to see, he too, is suffering without his mate and lover.
Ty Winsloe, is a sadistic collector of the supernatural, and when his ‘projects’ no longer serve any purpose, his pits Elena against a few of the failures. Hoping to learn more about the werewolf physiology, and her ability to shift, Winsloe continues to antagonize Elena with pictures of an injured werewolf and talk of her ‘dead’ mate. She soon realizes that Clay and the others have tried unsuccessfully to rescue her, and she is now determined, to free herself from the compound and its’ band of vigilante warriors.
Following her bid for freedom, Clay and Elena must return to the compound to rescue Savannah and the others. Savannah is a powerful witch and they soon realize she is one ‘being’ that could very well, control many of the people with a few words and a look. We see the introduction of Adam to Savannah, a foreshadowing of many storylines, and the escape of Leah O’Donnell, a demon that will surface again in a future book. But, all is not lost, when Clay and Elena make the final move against Winsloe and his crew at the compound. One by one, each member of Winsloe’s team is ‘removed’ from duty and meets his demise at the hands or ‘paws’ of either a demon or wolf.
I can’t say enough about Kelley Armstrong’s-Women of the Otherworld series. I found this series, purely by accident, while looking for something in the paranormal genre. As a fellow Canadian, I was excited and thrilled to read such an exciting series of novels and characters, and one that didn’t follow the usual vampire/werewolf storylines. I am saddened that Kelley is ending her Otherworld series in 2012, but with her continued novellas and anthologies, Elena, Clay and the other werewolves, will continue to be some of my favorite characters and Kelley one of my favorite authors.
BROKEN is the 6th novel in Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series. BROKEN continues the story of Elena, Clay and the other werewolves, but this time Elena is pregnant. As the only known female werewolf, Elena isn’t sure what to expect–literally.
But when someone from her past calls in a favor, Elena knows this could be her final chance for adventure, before giving birth.
Ever since Elena Michaels discovered she was pregnant, she has been unable to concentrate. As the months pass and the pregnancy advances, shape-shifting, her ability to fight and running with the other Pack members has become increasingly difficult and worrisome. Without benefit of prior knowledge or experience, Elena, Clay and Jeremy are cautious and reticent–if news were to spread about her pregnancy, she would become a bigger target than just Clay’s mate.
When Xavier Reese, a former ‘inmate’ from Ty Winsloe’s compound of supernatural beings, calls in a favor, Elena jumps at the chance for the distraction. Xavier has been commissioned to find and retrieve the “From Hell” letter, supposedly one of the last known pieces of evidence and DNA from Jack the Ripper, but he requires Elena’s expertise–basically, the werewolves are the only being who could pass through the sorcerer’s ‘spell’ protecting the document. One problem–the “From Hell” letter is currently owned by Patrick Shanahan, a sorcerer living in Toronto, and there are many ‘beings’ looking for the “letter”.
Once the letter is in their possession, a series of catastrophic events take place in the Canadian city. Witnesses report missing people, zombie-like beings, an outbreak of cholera and typhoid, as well as a string of unexplained murders. It is not until the trio learns that part of the curse of the “From Hell” letter, that whom ever is in possession, must make a ‘blood sacrifice’ to trigger the release of “Jack”, do they realize that they may be responsible for the strange events happening in the city. And the only ‘blood sacrifice’ that was made–Elena killed a mosquito containing her own blood. Meanwhile a confused and lost soul exists the portal into the 21st century.
With the blood sacrifice, a portal is opened into the otherworld, where zombies exit and people fall victim to its’ curse. But while tracking and fighting zombies, Clay’s arm is punctured by one of the ‘undead’ and without thought of the consequences, he ignores his wounds. Without giving away too much of the plot, zombie scratches can be fatal, and a very sick and ailing Clay has a couple of options–amputate the arm or die from the infections.
When a very pregnant Elena is abducted, they come to realize, that Elena is now the target and no longer the ‘letter’. Clay and Elena’s children will be the ultimate sacrifice in a game of evil, between the mystery man from the portal and zombies wreaking havoc throughout Toronto
Once again, Kelley introduces a few new supernatural beings, such as Zoe Takana, a female vampire with eyes for Elena and brings back the characters we love. Nick and Antonio Sorrentino are called to Canada to assist with the hunt for “Jack the Ripper” and Jaime Vegas, a beautiful clairvoyant and necromancer ( and a burr up Clay’s backside), aids the werewolves with the eradication and the return of the ‘undead’ back to their own time.
BROKEN is one of my favorite Women of the Otherworld storylines. Clay’s spiral into a fevered delirium is not without its’ scary moments and we watch Elena and Clay become a family with the birth of their child(ren), as we are drawn deeper into the lives of everyone involved. The birthing scene is heart warming and humorous, and you can almost hear the panic in their voices. Paige as their ‘long distance’ birthing coach is something that can only be imagined by a writer like Kelley.
Many of you will recognize Francis from his many photos, magazine shots, commercials and book covers. Francis is the cover model for Christine Feehan’s latest Carpathian book DARK PREDATOR.
Francis Cura Interview
With his wavy brown hair and piercing blue eyes, is it any wonder, he could see down to a woman’s soul and steal her heart with just one look.
STATS:
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 190lbs
Neck: 16″
Chest: 42″
Waist: 32″
Shoe: 12
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Year of Birth: 1977
Hometown: New York City
Currently Resides: Los Angeles
Education: Degree in Graphic Design and Art History
Others: Classically trained Opera Singer
Marital Status: Single
Children: Not yet…..
Siblings: One sister
It gives us great pleasure to introduce you to …..
Francis (Francesco) J. Cura
S&B: How did you get started in the modelling industry?
Francis: I started a long time ago in Milan, Italy. I was really young (about 18) and knew very little about the industry. So with the exception of a few good gigs, I didn’t find it easy. I pursued it more seriously in New York as well to then continue here in Los Angeles.
S&B: We have read that you are a classically trained opera singer. As a young boy, was there always music playing in your family home? What sparked your desire to sing opera?
Francis: My father is a ‘Jack of all trades’ type. He was also a musician but that did not have much influence on me. I discovered I possessed a powerful instrument only at the age of 17. I then enrolled in a two year program where I had the chance to develop my voice through rigid operatic muscular technique. It was more about pushing the limits of my vocal capabilities than having a concrete opera singer career.
S&B: Where did you train? Have you ever performed professionally?
Francis: I trained at the Cem Lira Music Institute in Italy. And I never performed professionally.
S&B: Does anyone else in your family, have a beautiful voice? Siblings? Parents?
Francis: Not really (smiles). I believe I’m the only one who was given that gift.
S&B: Where may we hear your singing? Is there a video or CD available?
Francis: I’m working on a project right now, but I’d rather not say anything – as I can be a little superstitious about revealing things before they’re done.
S&B: You are obviously very gifted, very talented. Which do you prefer…modelling, acting or singing?
Francis: Singing. No doubt. Acting is definitely below singing as music is more powerful than words.
S&B: Are your parents involved in the entertainment industry? Did they mentor you, encourage you into the different fields you currently are involved?
Francis: They always supported me through struggles and joys. As I said, my dad has always been in the arts, so obviously he understands and promotes anything that is creative. But I always mentored myself. My parents never told me what to do as I grew up as a very independent individual driven by my own ideas and ambitions. I listen to myself and trust what is in me will be faithful to who I am. And if I end up making a mistake, I will certainly be glad to only blame myself by taking ownership and responsibility over them. So, shortly said: my parents have NOTHING to do with my choices.
S&B: You started in the commercial film industry at a very young age. What was your first commercial for?
Francis: It was for mineral water. I had to climb a dune in a desert until I found the ‘saving’ bottle. I must have been 10 or 11.
S&B: Film work in both TV and the movies. Have you ever consider working full time as an actor? Which do you prefer…TV or the big screen?
Francis: I deeply dislike (and therefore ignore) television. I think if the world could still wake up if it turned off that useless box. There is nothing that attracts me in today’s entertainment. There’s either (and only) too much stupidity -in idiotic comedies and sitcoms-and too much violence and darkness – in movies and prime-time television series. All the movie directors I’d love to work with have died a long time ago.
S&B: With a degree in Graphic Design and Art History, you can work in almost any part of the entertainment industry. What sparked your interest in graphic design and art history? Are you currently working in the graphic design industry and if so, where may we see some of your work? (smiles)
Francis: I was very young when I took the path into visual arts. Graphic Design was lost on me as it became too mathematical and linear for a right-brained person like myself. I was rather into portraiture, where the freedom from rulers and compasses would let the pencil create the magic I was truly attracted to. I excelled at it and I still conserve many of my works.
Art History was a passion of mine that came from childhood. I can remember being attracted to the hidden mysteries of ancient civilizations since my mother first bought me a world globe map. At night, I would go to my room, turn off the lights and stare at the glowing globe as my imagination would take me to Egypt, Israel or Morocco. I then started reading about those places until I could finally study them as an adult ( and accumulate knowledge as I still do today).
S&B: Have you ever had an art showing? Have you ever sold a piece of art work professionally?
Francis: Yes. I also used to make stained glass and I sold two of them.
S&B: We first noticed you as a commercial ad man for Cadillac etc, as well as several TV and movie appearances. But most of our site members are most interested because of your cover picture on Christine Feehan’s Dark Predator. Most pictures are usually selected from studio stock photos. Were you eve consulted regarding this particular cover? Do you have any say about where or when your cover shots will appear? Do you have a preference?
Francis: No. I have no preference. I’m just flattered to be the face on a cover, especially when it’s about a dark predator, which is probably the furthest thing away from me. To answer your question: many photos of mine are purchasable through stock agencies and I hold full copyrights on them.
S&B: What other ‘romance novel’ covers have you graced?
Francis: I wouldn’t be able to tell you . Many things I appear on I have no knowledge of.
S&B: Well, Francis….we found a few of your ‘romance covers’. A couple of these books have recently been released.
S&B: Your bio states you will NOT do nude photos, but there are several that run close to the line. What do you say to young models and actors, just starting out in the industry regarding nude photo shoots etc?
Francis: There are a lot of discussions regarding this ‘issue’. It is very personal and it all depends on the intentions, morals, artistic view and purposes of the person and the product involved. I’ve been asked many times to do full nudity but always refused. I’m strict when it comes to over exposing. But again: that is my opinion. My most revealing images do not show any private parts although I can’t deny that they do contain a certain level of eroticism. Still, they are very well executed images.
Now, if I had to give advice to young models, here is what I would say: Never settle for gratuity, vulgarity and objectification. The body is a sacred temple. Your soul is enclosed in it and is of Divine nature. So if the images are of great artistic value, executed with graciousness and innocence to elevate the human form, its nature and divine design, then you might (I underline MIGHT) consider partial and/or full nudity. But when you’re asked to use your body to feed the insatiable hunger of men of depravity and poverty of spirit, then stay away from it as you’ll soon regret. I see lost of models taking away their veil of dignity for a small paycheck. They let the photographer/client become rich by impoverishing themselves.
S&B: What are you currently doing?
Francis: I’m going to San Francisco in three days for a photo shoot (at the time of the interview). I just had a photo shoot for the sequel of the movie 300. I’m on avail for a Chesterfield commercial. Life is good!
S&B: Do you have any regrets:
Francis: No. Only the present. Regrets are useless and counterproductive. They make no sense! When people have regrets they frustrate me because there is nothing they ( or I or anyone else) can do. The past is gone. The future has to come. We must be joyful in the present, which is a gift.
S&B: Is there anything you would like to tell us, that we may not know?
Francis: There are many things you may not know and what I’m about to write might be something you know VERY well but still: I feel the need to express since it is a BIG part of me.
I’d like to say that all that matters is GOD. There is nothing else. God is all we have and HE is closer to us than we are to ourselves. The only certainty we have in life is its death. After that, the only certainty is eternity and God, who created us out of love.
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LIGHTNING ROUND
FAVORITE SONG: I can’t think of one specific song. Too many to like…
FAVORITE MUSIC GROUP: Again: too many to mention. It would take a page.. ; )
FAVORITE FOOD: Pizza and Pecan Pie
FAVORITE RESTAURANT: House of Pies on Vermont in Los Angeles
BOXERS, BRIEFS OR COMMANDO: (we always have to ask) Briefs
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION: Hot tropical places
LAST VACATION DESTINATION: Jamaica
WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING FOR THE HOLIDAYS? Rest and eat.
DARK OR MILK CHOCOLATE? MILK for sure!!
WHAT TYPE OF CAR DO YOU DRIVE? Cadillac, of course….
IF YOU COULD DO ANYTHING ELSE, WHAT WOULD YOU DO? I’d be a farmer.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL DATE: I don’t have an ideal date. As long as I like the woman I have in front of me, I can be anywhere in the world.
We would like to thank you for this wonderful interview. You have been honest and forthright, and above all else….a pleasure. Please keep in touch and let us know about your upcoming music venture. I personally am looking forward to hearing your voice…*blushing* and you are definitely a man after my own heart….MILK chocolate AND Pecan Pie…my favorites….lol
This interview was previously posted at our other site…Bodice Rippers Femme Fatales and Fantasy Dec 2011
Vampire in Atlantis Review is on the seventh book (plus two novellas) in Alyssa Day’s Warriors of the Poseidon series. The next book in this wonderful series will be released in May, 2012. “Vampire in Atlantis” is Daniel’s book, and many of us have been waiting for this.
The story picks up with Daniel now ready to give up on life, and face the dawn. Daniel’s whole existence has been about atoning for his early years of being a vampire when he was all about killing and maiming. He spent 9000 years underground to stop himself from continuing the bloodlust. He returned to join hands to help the Atlanteans working undercover against the vampires. But his futility and being alone has forced him to finally give in to ending it all.
Serai is an Atlantean princess, who was one of a groupof young maidens, who agreed to be placed into a magical stasis to ensure the future of the Atlantean race, and be saved for a future King of Atlantis. This was 11 thousand years ago, when Atlantis went under the sea. Serai has now awakened, as something is wrong with the Emperor jewel, which protected all the maidens in the stasis. The Emperor jewel is also one of the jewels needed for the Trident, to help Atlantis rise. Serai uses her magic to help her escape. She wants no part of Atlantis, that seemed to have forgotten her, and calls the portal to run. But she knows she must find the missing jewel to save the other maidens who are still locked away from a sure death.
When Daniel is walking into the sunlight, he is suddenly pulled away and lands at Serai’s feet. He shockingly recognizes her, and she does too, but her mind is still in a state of confusion. 11 thousand years ago, Serai was Daniel’s first and only love. But circumstances and timing tore them apart, as Atlantis was shortly ready to disappear. Serai was visiting the jewelry shop where Daniel worked, and as it was attacked, he shoved her into an underground hiding place. When Serai came back up, Daniel was near death and she made a fast decision to save his life. She allowed a nightwalker mage to change Daniel. This was how he became a vampire. Serai returned home intending to check up on Daniel soon, but her father who felt Daniel was not worthy of her, lied to her and Daniel was dead. Atlantis shortly went under the sea and she was one the “lucky” maidens placed in stasis, for a few years (which ends up to be 11 thousand years).
Serai’s goal is to find the person who is misusing the power of the Emperor jewel, as it is killing her and her sisters. But Daniel is not going to let Serai go now that he has found her, even if that means they die on this mission together. This story is about a wonderful love story of two people who though separated for thousands of years, have never forgotten one another. This was their second chance to rekindle their romance. At the same time find the missing jewel that threatens to destroy them, as well as Atlantis. The majority of the story takes place in the red rock country of Sedona, Arizona. Their true love is more emotional then in the previous books, and it is also a chance for the redemption Daniel needs. It was great to watch them rediscover their love, her see a world that has totally changed, and for Daniel to finally have what he has always wanted…someone to share his life with and to love with passion. When they reached the soul-meld, it was very emotional, as Daniel now knew he did indeed have a soul.
The story is also filled with lots of action and danger. It was great to see Riley, Erin, and Keeley helping to try to save the maidens. Then at the end to see all of the couples together (Riley/Conlan, Ven/Erin, Justice/Keeley, Alexios/Grace, Brennan/Tiernan, Christophe/Fiona) come together to help save Daniel and Serai. Also fun to see Poseidon again. There are also some interesting revelations in this book. Some have to do with Daniel and Serai, but another was confirmation that we have suspected before….Serai tells them that priests do not have to be celibate, as they are stronger magic users when they have been through the soul-meld…Great news for Alaric and Quinn.
This has been a great read and a fun series. Loved every single one of the books, and can’t wait for Heart of Atlantis….and Quinn and Alaric….May, 2012 seems so long to wait. Thank you Alyssa Day for this wonderful series…..
Atlantis BetrayedReview is on the sixth book (plus two novellas) in Alyssa Day’s Warriors of the Poseidon series. If you have been reading my reviews, as I continue through Warriors of Poseidon, you will have noticed that I was pleasantly surprised by the last two books. In “Atlantis Betrayed” I figured that streak was over, as I totally disliked Christophe. Boy was I wrong….I loved him in this book, loved him with Fiona….and I think he is now my favorite…just goes to show that until you read their stories….you will never know.
Christophe has from the beginning a bad attitude and a chip on his shoulder. He openly hates humans, and doesn’t care about saving them, but as a loyal warrior for Poseidon, he does what is expected of him. But as he is hanging around London, planning to steal the Jewel Siren for the Trident, his life is about to change…..he accidentally meets the ‘Scarlet Ninja’.
Fiona Campbell is another of Day’s great heroines. Seems they are all different and unique on their own, and Fiona turns out to be one of the best ones. Loved her.
As the ‘Scarlet Ninja’, Fiona is a thief, who is the Robin Hood of her time; she steals to use the money to give to the needy. Fiona is in actuality a famous writer of children’s books, is rich on her own, and has a mansion to boot. She uses her own money to help charities. Of course, having read the previous stories, you know Fiona has some kind of power. Seems she is distant Fae (but possibly royal Seelie Fae), and has the ability to make herself invisible.
While out scouting the vanquish sword (which includes the siren jewel), Fiona accidentally runs into Christophe, who is looking to steal it. Christoph is immediately attracted to Fiona, as she is to him. He blackmails her to keep her identity a secret, if they become partners in the quest for the jewels. Their adventure to steal the jewel, as well as to prevent the vampires from using the jewel to enthrall the shifters is very exciting and fun.
This story also brings in the Unseelie Fae, specifically Lord Fairsby, who also wants the jewel for himself. The Unseelie Fae are supposed to be bad, as opposed to the good Seelie Fae we met in the previous books. As it turns out, Fiona’s best friend, Maeve, unbeknownst to her is an Unseelie Princess, who knew that Fiona was the ‘Scarlet Ninja’, but they were great friends. It was wonderful to watch Christophe fall in love with Fiona, marvel at the new emotions he was feeling, and to see him loosen up, and actually joke around. His constant grinning, playfulness was so infectious, you find yourself falling in love with Christoph. Fiona was the perfect match for him; she was smart, a crusader, spunky, sexy, and a real lady. The romance between the two of them was not only hot and steamy, it was fun. Day wrote this so well, she equally evened the story with action and romance.
What also made this story different were two secondary characters that were a big part of the story. Fiona’s brother, Declan, a computer geek, who helps her with her other life, is cute and very likeable. It was great to watch his relationship with his sister and to Christoph. The other was her butler, Hopkins, who saved her and Declan, after her father was killed by vampires, years before. You can tell how much he loves them both, and he also helps her with her double life. He is an enjoyable character, who intermixes with Christophe and the warriors who show up, which is funny. Atlantis Betrayed was a great book, very entertaining, lots of fun, sexy, plenty of action and an exciting ending. Best of all, the total change of Christophe was amazing to see. On to the final book, Vampire in Atlantis…until the next book coming May, 2012…Quinn and Alaric’s.
FLASHFIRE is the 7th installment in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. The continuing saga of the Pyr vs Slayer in the war to save the human race, and dominance in the world of dragons features the elusive Lorenzo and his Firestorm. Lorenzo wants nothing to do with his Firestorm, because it has come at an inconvenient time in his life–he does not need to find his mate just before he disappears from the face of the earth.
