Monthly Archives: May 2012

DEADLOCKED by Charlaine Harris-a new release review

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DEADLOCKED by Charlaine Harris-a new release review

If rumors are to be believed, Deadlocked is the penultimate book in the long-suffering Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. Midway through said book…I was praying for a merciful death myself. UGH. It’s not that it’s poorly written; not at all. Ms. Harris retains her wit and delivers a great story. I can only speak for myself, but THIS Team Eric fan clamors for some resolution regarding Sookie’s heart! Could there be anything of more importance? Ms. Harris decided instead to hurl this book at me, mocking me, and has nearly managed to crush my hopes.

I cannot fathom the tenacity and focus required by an author to maintain the ethic or organic character of its heroine, but Sookie’s dilemmas and choices have become complacent and monotonous. Particularly infuriating since Dead Reckoning, Sookie just can’t stop second-guessing her boyfriend, Viking Vampire Extraordinaire, Eric Northman. By the time we reach Deadlocked, their relationship is in full crisis mode.

Deadlocked hits the ground running with Sookie embroiled in yet another, if not several, supernatural disasters in play. Not only has Felipe, King of Louisiana, shown up to dispense punishment upon Eric for his alleged involvement in the mysterious death of Victor (to which not only was Sookie hands on involved, but instrumental in its planning), the King’s Second in Command, but on the opposite side of the spectrum, Tara, Sookie’s BFF, has just delivered a healthy set of twins. Although genuinely thrilled by her friend’s prosperity, the baggage Sookie’s been lugging regarding her future with Eric is suddenly magnified. Sookie finds herself lamenting over a future that cannot exactly welcome beautiful babies or an all-American, down-home HEA. More and more, Sookie expresses her desire to be rid of the “supes” and a general wish for an uncomplicated life. Add fuel to the already furious fire? Sookie walks in on a “twoey” (half human half were) spread across Eric’s lap, salaciously offering up both blood and body for his consumption!

As if! Eric’s being set up. Ms. “Twoey” is a mere piece to the puzzle. Enter secondary characters. The wolves have plenty of drama to drag down Sookie. Not only was Sookie deliberately delayed to cement Ms. “Twoey’s” availability, but she was made even more irresistible by adding a sprinkle of “eau de fairy”, a weakness for vampires thus ensuring Eric’s certain compliance. Segue into the problematic fae community. But this set of rascals Sookie’s almost willing to overlook, as she’s part fae herself; courtesy of Adele, Sookie’s grandmother, who had an affair with Fintan the fairy. Sookie actually lives with her fae great-uncle, Dermot and Claude her fae cousin, who is very scandalous. But I digress….did I happen to mention Ms. “Twoey” ended up dead on Eric’s front lawn? Oh, how the story unfolds…

Not to be outdone, tension is spiked to an all-time high with the appearance of Freyda, Queen of Oklahoma, who happens to be the intended bride of Eric. You said what now?! A last order made by Eric’s maker, Appius Livius Ocella, before his true death. While not in love with Freyda, Eric cannot dismiss this final, legally-binding contract, and, well, it’s Eric and Eric loves power. Sookie snappishly becomes jealous and insists Eric disregard the order and put HER before everything else. Yeah…because you’ve been his pillar of strength, right, Sookie? I cannot tell you how many times Sookie outright denied Eric from coming over or refused to talk to him in this book!

I’d now like to introduce to you the Cluviel Dor, an ancient, last of its kind, fairy artifact gifted to Adele by Fintan as a token of their forbidden love. The object, now in Sookie’s possession, can grant a wish on behalf of someone she loved. Perfect timing! If Sookie used it to keep Eric from marrying Freyda, an action she’s seriously considering, gone would be the proverbial albatross. Or would it? Sookie’s in such turmoil over the ruins of her relationship with Eric, she thinks it wouldn’t be a “meant for each other” type of love if she utilized the properties of the Cluviel Dor. UGH! Eric will not beg Sookie to use it as a means to eradicate their Freyda friction, but he clearly implies the power is hers to use. I thought he meant to change Sookie into a vampire, but no, it was something MUCH SIMPLER. Do it for the love of all that’s holy, Sookie! What wouldn’t we do for love?

In my opinion, Sookie has been reduced to a judgmental, vacillating nightmare! When Sookie finds pleasant to mean the absence of bad, when it’s blissful to think about being supernaturally-free….it’s time to move on. Ms. Harris does not treat us to a SINGLE love scene. If any of you are familiar with Eric’s sexual prowess and stamina, it’s really something to look forward to. Denied. Eric is simply an afterthought in Deadlocked. An afterthought? Reduce Eric to ex-boyfriend status like Bill (don’t get me started on Bill!)? That’s a planet I don’t want to live on! Maybe I’m a little biased? It wouldn’t be the first time I thought the heroine wasn’t good enough for the dazzling vampire, hello! 😀

The ending was so depressing; I shudder to predict where we’re being led. Just be done with it already, Ms. Harris. Put the fork in Sookie.

Reviewed by Carmen P.

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Susan K Quinn-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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Susan K Quinn-Interview with the Author

The Reading Cafe has had the privilege to review the novels and interview many of the authors from the INDELIBLES. The INDELIBLES are a group of independent publishing YA authors who get together for support and promotion. Today we would like to introduce the author of the MINDJACK TRILOGY-Susan K Quinn

INTERVIEW WITH SUSAN K QUINN

TRC: Hi Susan and welcome to The Reading Café. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Susan: I take my tea straight (no cream, no sugar), I have a love of all things booky or geeky (or both FTW!), and I recently have become obsessed with
Avatar: The Legend of Korra. Oh, and I write books for teens and kids.

TRC: Your bio information is impressive. You have several engineering degrees including Aerospace and Mechanical as well as a Ph.D in Environmental Engineering. Why did you leave it all behind to write?

Susan: I actually left it all behind to be with my kids – I have three boys, now 8, 11 and 13. I absolutely adored my work, but I decided to stay home with my boys after the second one was born, always intending to return to engineering work someday. It completely shocked me that I decided to be a novelist instead! But as I started reading children’s literature with my kids, I rediscovered the buried love of writing from my own teen years. And once bitten by the writing bug, there was no turning back.

TRC: Many writers bounce ideas between spouses or other authors, as well as friends. With whom do you share ideas or concepts about writing?

Susan: I don’t do a lot of sharing in the early stages, usually waiting until I have a couple drafts of the full manuscript done before I share it with anyone. But I talk general craft issues all the time with my fellow authors, and bore my husband and kids endlessly with point-of-view issues and storytelling craft. Now that my teenage son writes novels as well, dinner conversation is completely monopolized.

TRC: You are a member of the INDELIBLES-an indie website for authors of YA novels and storylines. How were you first introduced to the Indelibles? What would you consider the Indelibles most significant feature for indie authors?

Susan: I was invited to join the Indelibles by fellow Indelible author Heather McCorkle, and I am so glad (and lucky) to be in this fine group of authors! We support each other in our publishing journeys, cross-promote, and chat nearly every day on email about writing and life. Indie authors don’t have a support team with a publisher, so finding that support in each other is critical for success. And the collective lessons-learned of all 25 of us has helped each of us individually as well. I learn something new from these ladies every day!

TRC: What is the title of your first published novel? What inspired you to write your first book?

Susan: My first published novel was Life, Liberty, and Pursuit (a teen love story) that I wrote for my niece (who was 13 at the time). She and I bonded over the Twilight craze, and I wanted to write something that showed that epic love could exist, even if there were no paranormal creatures involved! I have nothing against paranormal (far from it, since Open Minds is paranormal/science fiction story), but I had fun just writing the love story. I never intended to publish it, but I was approached by a friend who was starting a small publishing company and was asked to submit.

TRC: Mind Games (found in the anthology-In His Eyes) is the prequel to OPEN MINDS (see our review below) , the first novel in the Mindjack Trilogy. Would you please tell us about the premise of this series?

Susan: Open Minds is about a girl (Kira) who can’t read minds in a world where everyone else does. She’s ostracized because of her “disability” and only her best friend Raf (who she secretly loves) treats her like she’s worthwhile. Kira soon finds out that she has the ability to control people’s minds, and things get dangerous in a hurry after that. Mind Games is a prequel short story to Open Minds, told from Raf’s point of view, about the difficulty of being a mindreader in love with a zero (someone who can’t read minds or be read by others). I’ll be releasing Mind Games as a single short story in mid-May.

LINKS TO PURCHASE

*Amazon Kindle
*Amazon Books
*KOBO
*B&N Nook
*B&N Books
*Smashwords

MIND GAMES free introductory e-novella from IN HIS EYES
*KOBO
IN HIS EYE anthology-FREE from AMAZON Kindle-click here)

TRC: What is the significance of ‘Mindjack’ and its’ relationship to the trilogy?

Susan: Mindjacking is the term I use for mind-control. Kira is a mindjacker, and the hidden world of mindjackers within the larger mindreading world drives the story. I think of mindjacking as an almost physical experience, where people reach with their mindfields into other people’s minds to control their thoughts, actions, emotions, and even their memories. The exploration of what we can do with our minds is endlessly fascinating to me.

TRC: Will Raf and Kira remain the central figures throughout the series?

Susan: The Mindjack trilogy is definitely Kira’s story, although Raf plays an important role throughout.

TRC: If the MindJack series is a runaway hit with the readers, will you consider writing future storylines or novellas?

Susan: This is a great question! Mind Games is actually the first of a series of short stories I’m writing in the world of Open Minds – I’m calling them “Mindjack Origins” and they will each look at a different character and a story from their past, that predates their appearance in the trilogy. The next one I plan to write this summer will be called “The Handler” – a character from the sequel, Closed Hearts. There’s a lot of richness in the world of Open Minds, and while I have another (different) trilogy that’s chomping at me to write it, I may be tempted to write a companion series to Mindjack. It would have to be as compelling as the Mindjack trilogy before I would be willing to commit to that, though. I think each book, and trilogy, needs to stand on its own.

 

TRC: CLOSED HEARTS is the second book in the Mindjack Trilogy (release date May 23, 2012). Would you please tell us something about the premise? (see our review below)

Susan: Closed Hearts is a continuation of Kira’s story in Open Minds. If you’ve read the book, you know things are just starting to change in Kira’s world. If you haven’t, I won’t spoil it for you. But safe to say, the story of mindjackers is just beginning.

 

 

LINKS TO PURCHASE

*Amazon Kindle
*Amazon Books
*B&N Nook
*Smashwords

TRC: Is there anything you found particularly challenging (to date) in writing the Mindjack Trilogy?

Susan: Writing a novel where everyone reads minds seemed so daunting at first, I almost didn’t start. How do you do that? Is everything written in italics?? Then I realized that the mindreading and mindjacking experience was a very physical one (see above) and that helped make the story more concrete, less esoteric. And more reasonable to render onto the page!

TRC: At The Reading Café, we always say that Young Adult literature is no longer just for teens and young adults. Many of today’s authors write books and series knowing that ‘grown ups’ will be reading their stories. What do you feel is the attraction ( for adults) of the many YA storylines and series?

Susan: I love reading and writing YA because the stories are fresh, fast-paced, and deal with universal experiences. I’m far from my teen years, but they’re still vivid in my mind. It’s a time when we discover who we are, and I think that remains as an indelible memory – and something we can all share.

TRC: What are you currently writing?

Susan: I’m working on Book Three of the Mindjack Trilogy, plus making notes for The Handler (short story) which I hope to write in-between drafts of the novel.

TRC: Would you like to add anything?

Susan: I hope your readers enjoy the Mindjack books! I always love to hear from readers, so feel free to drop by my facebook page and tell me what you think
LINK to Susan’s FACEBOOK

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Cheese. No, sourdough bread! Ok, cheese AND sourdough bread. #yum

Favorite Dessert
Any form of chocolate. Bonus points if it’s cake.

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Yes.

Favorite Movie
Star Trek (the reboot with OMG Chris Pine AND Zachary Quinto!! *faints*).I’m a fan.

Favorite TV Show
Avatar: The Legend Of Korra. So. Good.

Last Movie you Saw
The last movie was so bad, I don’t remember it. The last movie I saw that was AMAZING? Hunger Games.

TRC: Susan, we would like to thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. The Reading Café is looking forward to your upcoming release and we wish you the best of luck with your writing career. Please keep us informed about your future projects.

Susan: Thanks so much for hosting me today!!

*******GIVEAWAY*******

Susan K Quinn is offering an e-copy of either OPEN MINDS or CLOSED HEARTS (winners choice) plus an e-copy of MIND GAMES

1.  All members at The Reading Cafe are eligible for the giveaway.  If you are not a member, please register using the LOG-IN at the top of the page.

2.  Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

3. {like} Susan on FACEBOOK and follow her NEWSLETTER for additional entries.

4.  Please drop by and say hello to Susan.  Post a comment and enjoy our interview with the author.

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CLOSED HEARTS (Mindjack Trilogy #2) YA-by Susan K Quinn-a new release review

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CLOSED HEARTS (Mindjack Trilogy #2) YA-by Susan K Quinn-a new release review

CLOSED HEARTS (YA) by Susan K Quinn

CLOSED HEARTS is the second novel and May 23, 2012 release in Susan K Quinn’s Young Adult -Mindjack Trilogy.

PREVIOUSLY: In a world where mindreading is the norm (due to decades of contaminated water) those without the ability are known as zeroes, but there are a few who possess a power greater than most, and Kira will learn first hand, just how different is she. Discrimination and stereotyping will force the mindjackers into hiding-fearing for their lives.

Kira Moore is a mindjacker. It has been 8 months since Kira revealed to the world that Agent Kestral and the FBI were performing illegal experiments on changelings. With her family now secluded and hiding under false names, Kira and her father are working for a powerful man thought to be on their side. But waking up in Jackertown amongst strangers wasn’t part of her plan. Complicating matters, Clan leader Molloy appears to have aligned himself with other mindjackers in the hopes of finding his brother.

Kira soon meets the other housemates who are hiding in Jackertown. Julien, their leader, is hoping that Kira will help find and rescue his sister, who has been taken prisoner by Agent Kestral to another mindjacker experimental facility. And it is Julien’s references to Kira as a keeper that have everyone hoping she is their answer to freedom but even Kira is not strong enough to break through the newly established mindguard security. With the revelation that mindjackers exist, security is tight, and government officials are hoping to round up everyone perceived as a threat.

Kira is introduced to several variations on the mindjacker phenomenon. Julien explains that those with enhanced abilities beyond the normal mindjacking are considered mage-they perform ‘magic’ and are able to control others in varying degrees. It is the mage more than anyone that the FBI fear. If the mindjackers are able to control one’s mind, are they able to control the body as well? But it is Sasha that will truly scare Kira-as a scribe, Sasha has a special ability that could easily make him a weapon in the war against the others.

Kira’s boyfriend Raf falls prey to Molloy’s tricks and deviance. Not originally part of Julien’s plans, Raf is now a pawn in a new game of search and rescue between Kira and Molloy. But there is more to Molloy’s plans than the rescue of his missing brother- and it is Kira who will become the ultimate prize for Agent Kestral and the FBI.

Kira’s love for Raf will force her to make choices and her decisions could ultimately cost Raf his life. Molloy’s schemes will find Kira imprisoned in a mindjacker facility, but with the help of a few new friends, Kira discovers that it is no longer (just) about her. Security becomes a necessary evil, but detection and discovery will result in lives lost and the loss of a friend. But the biggest loss for Kira will be her heart, when the one person she loves most in this life, is the one person who is no longer himself.

CLOSED HEARTS is a wonderful second instalment in the Mindjack Trilogy. The story is fast paced, the characters are real, and the discrimination against those that are different is a definite possibility in the world in which we live. The premise will make you think ‘what if’ and your heart will break for a love now lost. Susan K Quinn writes a thought provoking series that can easily reflect the mindset of many countries, groups and faiths.

In My Opinion:  The Mindjack Trilogy by Susan K Quinn is one of the best NEW young adult  series this year.

LINKS TO PURCHASE

Amazon Kindle
Amazon Books
B&N Nook
Smashwords

reviewed by Sandy

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OPEN MINDS (Mindjack Trilogy #1) YA by Susan K Quinn-a review

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OPEN MINDS (Mindjack Trilogy #1) YA by Susan K Quinn- a review

OPEN MINDS (YA) by Susan K Quinn

In My Opinion: one of the best new YA series this year.

OPEN MINDS is the first novel in Susan K Quinn’s Young Adult Mindjack Trilogy. A combination of paranormal and science fiction, Open Minds follows Kira Moore as she traverses her way through a world of mindreaders and zeroes. In a world where mindreading is the norm (due to decades of contaminated water) those without the ability are known as zeroes, but there are a few who possess a power greater than most, and Kira will learn first hand, just how different is she.

At the start of another school year, Kira has yet to change. Without the ability to mindread, she is at a disadvantage with schoolwork, friendships and future employment. In a world where all communication is done through mindreading, she is considered a zero-a nobody. With the support of her family and her BFF Raf Santon, Kira manages the pitfalls of life. But an accidental encounter with fellow student Simon Zagan will reveal that Kira is more than a mindreader-she is a mindjacker like Simon-she has the ability to control others with her mind. And now it is Simon’s turn to help Kira manage her newfound powers.

Hoping to engage Kira one on one, Simon directs Kira into a world of manipulation and power. Practicing the art of control, Kira soon learns that there is more to her mindjacking than control-Kira is special-with powers that have yet to come into their own. But there are others who wish to acquire Kira and it is Simon who has been instructed to bring Kira to the Clan. The Clan, headed by the mysterious Molloy, is an organized family of mindjackers that seeks revenge against those who are kidnapping and experimenting on the mindjacker changelings. In a world of mindreaders, mindjackers are a threat to their peaceful existence-with the ability to control others, mindjackers are perceived as dangerous, and there are those who have the ability to strike out and destroy.

Following a government raid on the Clan, Kira finds herself in a concentration camp for mindjackers. Physical violence, medical experiments and missing friends have Kira and the changelings fearing for their lives. With Simon and the others, Kira discovers that her abilities are growing stronger, and with Molloy’s insistence and threats, Kira and Simon are forced into a life-threatening situation where someone will not survive.

Escape is the only option, but when Kira returns home, she finds her family is now under surveillance. Hoping to contact her parents, Kira soon discovers that she is not the only mindjacker in the family. Knowing that she is risking the lives of her family and friends, Kira makes good on a promise to let the world know what has been happening to those who present ‘outside the norm’.

OPEN MINDS is a wonderful first story from Susan K Quinn. The dialogue is mature, the narration clear and to the point, without any of the condescending ideals of teenage drama. Yes, there is some teenage interplay between the haves and have-nots, but the harassment and high school drama is kept to a minimum and does not overwhelm the story. OPEN MINDS is a study in stereotyping and discrimination-those who are perceived as different, are treated like vermin and discrimination runs deep. The concept of the Mindjack Trilogy is not unique in its’ message but addresses the discrimination against others through the eyes of the young. Using mindreaders as the ‘new norm’ and mindjackers as the ‘minority class’, Susan K Quinn looks at a dystopian world with utopian attitudes.

I would suggest, however, that you read MIND GAMES from the IN HIS EYES anthology (FREE from AMAZON Kindle-click here)  by the indie author’s group the INDELIBLES. Mind Games is a small introduction leading into the Mindjack Trilogy that will help explain the premise behind the story. Whether it was intentional by the author or not, the message presented throughout the novel-to keep an ‘open mind’ –when there are others who are different than you. I am looking forward to reading Closed Hearts-Book Two to be released May 23.

LINKS TO PURCHASE

Amazon Kindle
Amazon Books
KOBO
B&N Nook
B&N Books
Smashwords

MIND GAMES free introductory e-novella from IN HIS EYES
KOBO

reviewed by Sandy

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An Interview with Nalini Singh

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An Interview with Nalini Singh

 

The Reading Cafe is thrilled to have the fantastic Nalini Singh as our guest today. Nalini is one of our favorite authors, and we have given you a glimpse into her books all week. Yesterday was the release of her 11th book in Nalini’s Psy/Changeling series.

Let’s begin our interview with Nalini

 

 

Hi Nalini, Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions today. We are always looking forward to reading about the author behind the book.

Nalini: Thank you for the invitation to be here.

TRC: Will you please tell us about yourself?

Nalini: I’m passionate about writing, adore traveling, and am seriously addicted to chocolate!

I was born on the small Pacific island of Fiji, grew up in New Zealand, and spent three years living and working in a lovely rural town in Japan famous for its tea fields.

TRC: When and how did you become interested in writing?  Have you always liked to write?

Nalini: The latter. I’ve always been a daydreamer, and somewhere along the way, I started writing down my stories.

TRC: Many writers discuss book ideas and information with a family member, a friend or another writer.  Who inspires you?  Do you have a muse?

Nalini: I actually prefer to work alone the majority of the time. As for inspiration – it’s everywhere. Something I see, hear, smell, touch or taste, the feel of a place, an article in the newspaper… anything could kick off an idea.

TRC: Would you tell us your steps to writing a novel?

Nalini: I usually have a story idea that excites me, and then I sit down and just go for it, do a first fast draft. That becomes the foundation for the final book. I do multiple complete drafts.

I like to say I write my way into the book.

TRC: When you started the Psy-Changeling Series, with Slave to Sensation, did you know at that point how far you wanted to go in this series?  Is there an end in sight?  Hopefully not. 🙂

Nalini: I’ve always had an end point in mind for the original story arc, because a strong story must have a satisfying conclusion. However, after we reach that point, there will still be plenty to explore in the world and its characters!

TRC: Tangle of Need was released yesterday, May 29th. Can you tell us a little about the book?

Nalini: Tangle of Need is an emotionally intense book about two people who aren’t looking for a relationship, least of all with one another. Their coming together is raw, sometimes painful, and deeply passionate.

The book also advances the overall storyline of the series on a number of fronts, including the Arrows and the Human Alliance.

TRC: How many books do you plan in the Guild Hunter series?

Nalini: The series is currently contracted up to book 8, so at least that many!

TRC: In September, your next Guild Hunter book, Archangel’s Storm will release.  What can you tell us about this book?

Nalini: This is the story of the enigmatic spymaster, Jason. He’s a man used to keeping secrets and one who doesn’t trust easily. In this book, you find out about the forces that shaped him, and along with his heroine, learn to see beyond the mask of the spymaster.

The first chapter is available here: www.nalinisingh.com/storm.php

TRC: I love that your female heroines are as equally strong as the men.  Is there anything that made you want to create the women in your stories so strong?

Nalini: For me, strong heroes need strong heroines. They play off one another, provide balance for each other, are able to be partners in the deepest sense.

However, strength is a multi-faceted thing. 

Indigo and Mercy from the Psy/Changeling series are physically strong, senior members of their packs, as lethally trained as any of the men, while Sascha is an empath, could never hurt anyone, yet her emotional courage in absorbing the agony of another so that person can find peace, is enormous.

And Honor in Archangel’s Blade, is broken at the beginning of the book, yet in spite of the horror she’s been through, she hasn’t lost her humanity, hasn’t become cold and cruel and without compassion. That displays an incredible strength of will – one that to her hero, makes her stronger than him.

All of these women are equally strong – they simply display their strength in different ways.

TRC: Who is your favorite male character in your books? / Who is your favorite female character in your books?

Nalini: Impossible to choose! I love them all!

TRC: We love your Friday Book Club on your blog.  I noticed you love the In-Death series, which is one of my all time favorite series…love Eve and Roarke. Please tell us about some of your other favorite books.

Nalini: I have so many favorites. As well as being a huge JD Robb fan, I also follow the Liaden books by Sharon Lee & Steve Miller, the Iron Seas series by Meljean Brook, and both of Patricia Briggs’ series.

Other favorites include books by Julie James, Maya Banks, Ilona Andrews, Jayne AnnKrentz…I could go on and on!

TRC: What are you currently working on? Any thoughts of a new series?

Nalini: I’m currently writing a Psy/Changeling novella featuring SnowDancer lieutenant, Cooper – it’s sexy and a lot of fun.

As for a new series – I have ideas that I work on in my spare time, but my focus is on the Guild Hunter and Psy/Changeling series at the moment. 

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Nalini: If your readers would like to find me online, here’s where they can spot me:

Website:     www.nalinisingh.com

Facebook:   www.facebook.com/authornalinisingh

Twitter:       www.twitter.com/nalinisingh

 

LIGHTNING ROUND


Favorite Food: Chocolate

Favorite Author: I can’t pick just one!

Favorite Movie: Jodhaa-Akbar

Favorite TV Show: Bones

Last book that you read: Sarah Mayberry’s “Her Best Worst Mistake”. Right now, I’m midway through “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern.

Favorite character (male & female) not written by you: This changes with my mood. Currently, I’m going to say Captain Wentworth and Anne Elliot from Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I recently reread the book and fell in love with it all over again.

TRC: Thank you, Nalini for answering our questions. We look forward to continuing to read your books, and to work with you in the future.

Nalini:  Thanks for the great interview.

 

************GIVEAWAY*********

Nalini has graciously offered a giveaway to an eligible member of The Reading Cafe. One eligible winner will receive a copy of one of her fantastic Psy/Changelilng’s books.

To qualify:
1. You must be a registered member at The Reading Cafe. If not, please register using one of the social log-ins or LOG-IN to complete registration.
2. Contest is open to continental USA and Canada only
3. Contest will run May 30th-June 3rd, 2012.

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THE BEAST WITHIN -a poem

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THE BEAST WITHIN -a poem based on the Psy-Changeling series by Nalini Singh

THE BEAST WITHIN

A Psy denies the passion for the woman that he loves.
To know desire at the hands was proffered from above.

A Changeling shifts into the man who wants his mate this night.
But instincts rule and flames will burn-demand without a fight.
To hide a rage, a frenzied craze for one so lost, so torn.
To know that evil hunts the weak, a hero will be born.

Sascha feels where others can’t, a sorrow and a loss.
A need to touch, to guide her hand-a line she dare not cross.
But Lucas knows that Sascha’s heart is his to own, to claim.
He builds a passion, breaks the wall that buried her in shame.

Faith can see what fate unfolds for those who dare defy.
The fragile gift could break her mind, her heart, her soul will cry.
Vaughan is a man, a cat, a beast, a Changeling to his core.
Desire rules and hunger craves, the beast is wanting more.

An Arrow caught on bended knee. He knew his past was dark.
But Judd denied himself a place. His loneliness was stark.
Brenna felt the evil in the man who claimed her heart.
But danger called and passions burned right from the very start.

The mating bond was calling from the leopard to his mate.
And Tamysn knew a life fulfilled, no longer ruled by hate.
Honor bound and power rich, for Nate this was his life.
To take a mate, so young and pure, he knew she was his wife.

Clay once lost his heart and soul, he thought his love had died.
A friend betrayed. A mother lost. Their futures will collide.
Talin strived to save the streets, the lives of children lost.
Reveal the truth. The heart will see and lies will bear the cost.

Ashaya burned with inner rage- a need to find her son.
But cold and fury fueled the mind. His freedom would be won.
Dorian had leopard blood. His sister lost the fight.
The beast rebelled and darkness called. He’d take his mate this night.

A soldier strong of power rank, he knew the task at hand.
Zack found Annie. Love had called. Together they would stand.

The wolf it called out to his mate. The cry was answered back.
As Riley claimed his leopard’s fate, his female wasn’t pack.
Mercy knew the man she loved had fanned the flames of fire.
A call to mate-to quench the urge-the embers of desire.

Dev is charged to hide the key, to keep their secrets safe.
Honor bound-protect the young. A need to bind their fate.
Katya claims a memory loss and danger is her game.
Desire burns a passion deep- a need to stake a claim.

Max is shielded from the Psys. He knows his mind protected.
Duty called, protect his mate. His heart was surely tempted.
Sophia felt the evil and the guilt-both man and beast.
To judge a man for sins of past. His future was her fate.

To track the beast who’d fought the man, humanity had lost.
And Drew knew where to rein the rogues who’s lives had surely cost.
A lesser wolf was her desire, a sensual call to mate.
But Indigo she knew his touch, was only tempting fate.

A Lauren Psy, Sienna knew, her life was on the run.
To fight the need. Her power grew-another Changeling won.
Hawke had lost a time ago-he fought the need to love.
But Sienna called out to his soul, a gifting from above.

Adria had broken from her past, her memories filled with hate.
To heed the teachings of your heart. The beast demands its’ mate.
A wolf he stands alone at night, he knows both shame and honor.
And Riaz claims his heart and soul, is tempted by another.

Psy-Changelings face another war, a lesson not yet learned
As mothers cry and families bleed, a lover’s touch is yearned.
Nalini wrote a passion tale of leopard, wolves and man
Of human minds that feel no shame-a desperate final plan.

A shifter’s heart will beat once more-their stories will now ring.
To tell a tale of man and beast –Psy-Changeling by Nalini Singh.

Written by Sandy S.

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Nalini Singh – Bio and Book List

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Nalini Singh – Bio and Book List

 

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh burst onto the romance scene in 2006 with Slave to Sensation, the first in the wildly popular Psy-Changeling series.  #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan raved that Nalini was “a major new talent.”

In a paranormal landscape overrun with vampires, Nalini’s unique series quickly became a stand-out hit.  After only two years, in 2008, the fifth book in the series debuted on the printed New York Times mass market list, a trend that has continued with every book since.  Publishers Weekly called Nalini’s books “paranormal romance at its best” and RT Book Reviews named her an “unrivaled storyteller.”

In 2009, fans rejoiced when Singh launched her second series, the sensual, dark, and edgy Guild Hunter series with Angels’ Blood, which debuted on the New York Times list.

Nalini Singh was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand.  She has traveled extensively throughout Asia and has worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher.  Some might call her work experience inconsistency but she calls it grist for the writer’s mill.

Nalini’s comments about herself (direct from her website):
I’ve been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There’s no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.

For more information about Nalini Singh and her bestselling series, visit www.NaliniSingh.com

Bibliography /Reading Order

 

Psy/Changeling Series (Berkley Sensation)

SERIES LIST

1. Slave To Sensation (September 2006)

2. Visions of Heat (March 2007)

3. Caressed By Ice (September 2007)

4. Mine to Possess (Feb 2008)

5. Hostage to Pleasure (September 2008)

6. Branded By Fire (July 2009)

7. Blaze of Memory (November 2009)

8. Bonds of Justice (July 2010)

9. Play of Passion (November 2010)

10. Kiss of Snow (May 31,2011)

11. Tangle of Need (May 2012)

12. Heart of Obsidian (June, 2013)

NOVELLAS
1. “Beat of Tempation” in An Enchanted Season anthology ( October 2007)

2. “Stroke of Enticement” in The Magical Christmas Cat anthology (October 2008)

3. “Whisper of Sin” in Burning Up anthology (August 2010)

4. Wild Invitation (March 2013)

5. Declaration of Courtship (November 2013 -ebook only)

6. Texture of Intimacy (November 2013 – ebook only)

 

Guild Hunter Series (Berkley Sensation)

SERIES LIST

1. Angels’ Blood (March 2009)

2. Archangel’s Kiss (February 2010)

3. Archangel’s Consort (January 2011)

4. Archangel’s Blade (September 2011)

5. Archangel’s Storm (September 4, 2012)

6. Archangel’s Legion (October 2013)

NOVELLAS
1. Angels’ Pawn
e-Special

2. “Angels’ Judgment” in Must Love Hellhounds anthology (September 2009)

3. Novella in Angels of Darkness anthology (October 2011)

4. Archangel’s Dance (December 2012)

ANTHOLOGIES
Angels’ Flight (March 2012)

Non-series releases
Lord of the Abyss (November 2011)

Silhouette Desire
1. Desert Warrior (August 2003)

2. Awaken To Pleasure (August 2004)

3. Awaken The Senses (May 2005)

4. Craving Beauty (July 2005)

5. Secrets In The Marriage Bed (March 2006)

6. Bound By Marriage (February 2007)

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Tangle of Need by Nalini Singh – a Review

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Tangle of Need by Nalini Singh – a Review

Tangle of Need, which will be released tomorrow, is the 11th book in Nalini Singh’s Psy/Changeling series. When I started this book, I was worried that it would be a letdown after reading Kiss of Snow.  I adored Hawke and Sienna.  But I have to say, Nalini does it again.  It is amazing how she continues the storyline flawlessly, as she brings in a new romantic couple.  Each book I read, I love Nalini Singh even more.  What a great series this is.

Tangle of Need belongs to Riaz and Adria, both wolves from Snow Dancer.  Yes, we stay with the wolves in this book.  We do get to see some of the Dark River leopards, but this book is mostly the Snow Dancers. 

What I loved the most about this book, was that though we got to enjoy the romance between two dominant wolves in Riaz and Adria, we saw a lot of Hawke and Sienna.  It was so great to spend time with them after their mating ceremony in Kiss of Snow.  Love love them together.  We get to see Mercy and Riley and that was simply great; Lucas and Sascha, and even a funny scene with Faith.  Of course we get to spend time with Judd, who is such a wonderful character.  We also see so many other Snow Dancers, and this is something Nalini does very well.  She has great characters, and uses them so well.  

Riaz is a Snow Dancer Lieutenant, who found his mate, only to find her married and in love with someone else.  This accounts for his belligerent attitude early on. Adria, who is Indigo’s aunt, is a top Snow Dancer soldier.  She broke up with her dominant other, and finds herself totally attracted to Riaz.  But Adria fights this, as she wants nothing to do with another dominant man, whom she feels she cannot trust.  So at the start, both do not like each other, and try to avoid any contact.  But suffice to say, that doesn’t happen and the two are drawn to each other, especially sexually.  There are difficult times ahead, but as they begin to enjoy their sexual encounters, and learn more about each other, things begin to change.  It is really nice to see how Adria totally understands the dilemma Riaz is in having met and been rejected by his true mate.  She becomes more sympathetic towards him, and also finds herself falling in love with him. Adria is willing to break her own heart, to allow Riaz to have his happy ending.  But Riaz, despite his inabilty to do the mating bond, finds himself torn, as he knows he has fallen in love with Adria. He must make choices, if he wants to fight to keep her.   This is really a very nice romance.

The story continues with the Human Alliance; the Psy Council fighting each other; more changelings packs trying to form alliances with Snow Dancer and Dark River; and the Pure Psy group, all trying to assume control.  Three main Psy characters had a bigger part in this story, Kaleb, Vasic and Aden.  I expect to see more of them, perhaps their own stories along the way.  Of course, the mystery continues as to who is the Ghost.  This part of the story with the Psy’s was exciting and we do learn a lot more, as Nalini slowly brings us along.  The ending was excellent, even to the last surprising page.  One of the things I love about Singh, is that she leaves a lot open for the future, and yet it is not a cliffhanger.  Well done.

This was such an enjoyable book, seeing our favorites, and with everything flawlessly falling into place.  Awesome book, awesome characters, awesome series, and an awesome author.  I can’t get enough of Nalini Singh and this wonderful series.

Reviewed by Barb

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