Monthly Archives: March 2013

Darkness Arisen (Order of the Blade #6) by Stephanie Rowe-a review

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DARKNESS ARISEN (Order of the Blade #6) by Stephanie Rowe

Darkness Arisen

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About the book: Release Date March 24, 2013

Darkness Hunts Him.
Calydon warrior Ian Fitzgerald refuses to die. Cursed by black magic, he has stayed alive through sheer force of will and unyielding commitment to a mission he is sworn to complete. There is only one thing that can defeat him…and she has just found him.



Desire Torments Her.
Ravaged by her own passions, tarnished angel Alice Shaw is fighting desperately for salvation before all she cares about is lost forever. Her sensual allure, and the forbidden power buried inside her, are outshone only by the burning need she awakens in Ian.



Fierce Passion Ignites.
Raging desire explodes between Ian and Alice, pushing them to the brink of destruction. They cannot afford to succumb, but the cord that binds them will never let them go…not until their most dreaded nightmares come true. Together, they are destined to fail. Together, they will fight to survive the impossible.

*************

Some background information: The Calydons are a race of ancient immortals cursed with a dark side. Each Calydon is destined to meet his soul mate, to be so drawn to her that he is unable to resist bonding with her through the rituals of his race… but their destiny is to destroy each other and all they care about the moment their bond is complete.

*********

REVIEW: DARKNESS ARISEN is the sixth storyline in Stephanie Rowe’s Order of the Blade contemporary fantasy series and focuses on Calydon warrior Ian Fitzgerald and Angel Alice Shaw.

Ian Fitzgerald has lived a lifetime (six hundred years) of suffering, hoping to avenge the family name and break the curse placed upon his ancestors for the death of a warrior’s soul mate hundreds of years in the past. But the Calydon warriors hold sacred their vows and oaths, and the belief of brothers before mates, had led to warrior’s gone rogue and the deaths of many women over the centuries. Ian is the last of his family, cursed to go rogue when it is his destiny to kill his own mate before she has the chance to walk away with his heart. But Ian is in love with Alice and is determined to find a way to avoid their ill-fated future.

Alice Shaw knows what it is like to die. For years the sea has called to her and her Magean destiny awaits. Like the other Fallen Angels, Alice knew that she would suffer as had all the others when the demons came for her soul. But on this day, as she faced the anger of the ocean, she would find herself in the arms of the warrior who continues to rescue the wounded angel every time she seeks to fulfill a promise made to another many years before. But unlike Ian, Alice is having difficulty remembering her past involvement with her soul mate, and it takes everything in Ian to trigger Alice’s memory of the past.

This is my first Stephanie Rowe novel and as I have said in the past- you must read a series in order-especially one as detailed as The Order of the Blade. Throughout a good portion of the novel I was treading in deep waters, as lost at sea, as the heroine of the storyline felt. To update my Order of the Blade information, I had to go back and read reviews and excerpts from the first five books. I struggled with my enjoyment and felt like an interloper at a party to which I wasn’t invited. It was difficult to enjoy the storyline when I knew nothing about the characters, but I will give praise to Stephanie Rowe, because she did include plenty of background information as it pertained to both the current hero and heroine of this particular storyline. My lack of information about the previous storylines in the series is not the fault of the author.

Saying that, the first part of the storyline was difficult for me. Not that is was heartbreaking or sad, but the heroine’s endless need to die over and over had me hoping she would finally succumb to her death wish. Not only did the heroine’s need to die bother me but the inevitable suicide and death wish of the hero doubled the difficulty at times. At one point, it was like watching a ping pong game of whom would die first then come back to life. And in this, Alice was not an easy character to like. She refused to acknowledge or accept her power, and in doing so, her fear of failure, left many people to suffer needlessly. The little faith she had in her abilities caused too much sorrow for the warriors struggling to save the lives of their friends.

The storyline changes when it is revealed that Fallen Angels, who have sinned or are no longer pure, become one of the Magean (a group of underwater beings sentenced to live out eternity under the sea). And it is Alice’s intent to trade in a favor, with the Magean to discover the whereabouts of a friend to whom she had made a promise many years before. But something goes wrong in the underworld, and Ian and Alice are given 72 hours to make good on a promise or die upon their return.

The relationship between Ian and Alice is inevitable. They are destined as are all soul mates that have met each other in previous lifetimes. But Alice’s refusal to accept that inevitable forces Ian to make decisions he would have never done otherwise. He places his fellow warriors in danger trying to prove to Alice that their bonding is unavoidable and something that will probably kill them both. But in the end, a missing warrior will be found, another will be on the verge of going rogue, and the Angel of Death looks for release from this world.

DARKNESS ARISEN is a well-written and interesting storyline with plenty of detail and information. I was pleased that Stephanie Rowe integrated the history of the Calydon warriors with this particular storyline because without it I would have given up very early in the book. When I have a few spare weeks to myself, I will go back and read the Order of the Blade series. Having read only one storyline I am intrigued with the author’s ability to weave a story. My only wish is that I was able to read the series from book one.

Copy supplied by the author

Order of the Blade

READING ORDER:
Darkness Awakened
Darkness Seduced
Darkness Surrendered
Forever in Darkness
Darkness Reborn
Darkness Arisen

Reviewed by Sandy

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Identity Crisis by Eliza Daly-a review

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IDENTITY CRISIS by Eliza Daly-a review

Identity Crisis

Amazon/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

About the book: Released March 4, 2013

When Olivia Doyle’s father dies under suspicious circumstances, rather than inheriting a family fortune, she inherits a new identity. She learns they were placed in the Federal Witness Security Program when she was five years old. Her father was involved in an art forgery ring and testified against the mob. Brought up not to trust anyone, Olivia has a difficult time relying on U.S. Marshal Ethan Ryder to protect her, and to keep her secret. She fears her father may have continued his life of crime through her art gallery. She has little choice but to depend on Ethan when she realizes someone is now after her. Olivia’s search for the truth leads her and Ethan across country to a family and past she doesn’t remember.

At the age of ten, Ethan witnessed a brutal murder. He vowed when he grew up, he’d protect people in danger. Protecting Olivia is difficult when she won’t trust him. He soon realizes his desire to protect her goes beyond doing his job, but if his judgment becomes clouded by emotions, her safety could be jeopardized.

Can Ethan and Olivia learn to trust each other when they uncover secrets that will change their lives forever?

***********************

REVIEW: IDENTITY CRISIS is a contemporary romance storyline with a little suspense, a little mystery and a little romance. Our heroine Olivia will discover that her entire life has been based on a lie when a personal letter, written from her dead father, reveals that they have been in the Federal Witness Program for close to twenty four years. And to complicate matters, her father was involved in one of the biggest and most expensive art forgery scams involving the mob and millions of dollars in fraudulent paintings. Olivia has been schooled in the arts and now owns a very prestigious art gallery.

As an agent with the US Marshall’s office, Ethan Ryder has already lost a fellow agent and one witness in the protective custody program. Blaming himself for the losses, Ethan endeavors to keep Olivia Doyle safe but begins to wonder if Olivia’s own art gallery is somehow connected to her father’s past. Hoping to protect Oliva, Ethan agrees to help her return her father’s ashes to the place of his birth but along the way he will lose his heart and his sense of duty when he has Olivia investigated as a possible connection to a recent series of art forgery and sales.

Identity Crisis is a fascinating storyline of one woman’s discovery that her entire life has been built around a government lie to protect her father and herself from the mob. Throughout the story, Olivia’s early memories are triggered by the sites and sounds of the family she never knew existed prior to a few days before. But a string of suspected burglaries, break-ins and hostage takings, all leading back to Olivia and her father’s past, has Ethan circling around Olivia fearing for her life. When Olivia finally meets the family she never knew she had, a surprising twist in her father’s past will have Olivia wondering is she ever knew her father and if her mother’s death is to be blamed on someone close.

IDENTITY CRISIS is a well-written storyline that brings two people together that would never have met under ordinary circumstances. Ethan Ryder will compromise his position as a US Federal Marshall when he uncovers Olivia’s secrets as well as opening up about his own troubled past. This story is about two souls lost in a sea of pain who begin the long road to recovery when the people they once trusted most, are not whom they were once believed to be.

If you like a storyline with a mystery as well as a little romance, Identity Crisis is for you. There is a little foreplay, but no sex; a little romance but nothing over the top; a little suspense and a big twist in the background information revealed near the end.

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Lost Magic Trilogy by Suzi Davis – Combined Reviews

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The Lost Magic Trilogy by Suzi Davis – Combined Reviews

Suzi Davis
The Lost Magic Series by Suzi Davis consists of three books, each is reviewed separately.

 

Amber Frost

Amber Frost, the first book in Suzi Davis’ Lost Magic Series, introduced us to sweet, thoughtful Grace and the enigmatic, otherworldly, Sebastian.  Grace has been primed to excel at school in academics and in the corresponding politics of popularity.  Her parents just relocated to an affluent area of Vancouver Island in Canada where she receives a supreme education and is dating the most, you guessed it, popular boy in school.  Girls would kill to be in her position.  Problem is:  Grace doesn’t fit in.  Yes, she conforms to what’s expected of her, but none of it brings her happiness or satisfaction.  That is until she dives into her art class…and meets Sebastian Caldwood.

An instant, almost mesmerizing attraction to Sebastian convinces Grace there is more to him.  While unique backgrounds allow them to fit the parameters of “opposites attract”, their similarities are yet more powerful and soul-searching…or is it reconnecting?  Sebastian provides Grace with the courage to break from the shell she’s created to please her parents.  Amber Frost walks us through their fascination and adoration for each other:

“I tried not to let my attention become totally consumed by Sebastian.  It was difficult, as I truly didn’t feel like I needed anything more in my life than just him.”    

Ahhhh….young love.  In the exploration of their intense feelings (that just about had me pulling out my hair!), Sebastian reveals his supernatural gift.  Man, did I want him to be a vampire!  *Pouting* No…he’s “other”:  If Sebastian wants something to happen, it usually does.  Ms. Davis expounds on the subject, as it’s a bit more complicated, but know that with this ability comes immortality and as long as Sebastian loves Grace, she will absorb these qualities and “cease” alongside him.  This doesn’t deter Grace from accepting Sebastian, but it ratchets up the underlying tension when she grasps what awaits her (or no longer does) in the future.  Sure, she’ll be in love with Sebastian (remember all the swooning she was doing?), but will his gift bring about resentment? This is PNR, don’t forget — HUGE revelation to satisfy all at the end (and explain the title of the book, lol)!!!

Link to order Amber Frost: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

 

Silver Dew

Silver Dew is the continuation of Sebastian and Grace’s love story, only now, they’re on the run.  In Sebastian’s/Seamus’s time (*spoiler alert* you’ll know how this name came to be at the end of AF), the separation from Grace/Caoilinn (refer to *) nearly destroyed him.  In his desolate solitude, empowered with magic transferred to him from Grace, Sebastian created “Others” like him (12 to be exact).  Now that Sebastian and Grace have embraced their past lives (but their memories are sparse at best!  Grace a little less than Sebastian for she wields more power, but cannot remember how to use it!), their combined power have awoken the Others, who organized themselves into The Order, and they refuse to relinquish their own powers.  The Others are hot on their trail and intend to kill them.   

“We’ll find the answers we’re looking for in Ireland, I know we will.  You’ll regain full control and use of your magic, and then we’ll find a way to stop the Others.  They’ll never be a threat to us again.”

The pair quickly realizes escaping is NEVER a solution.  As they travel, they are forced into confrontations, and as [bad] luck would have it, Sebastian’s past.  An ex-wife, no less, joins them in their journey to rid themselves of the Order’s relentless pursuit.  And wouldn’t you know it, Grace, too, has a past, and it’s not pretty.  Pretty selfish and murderous, to be exact. 

“I had been looking forward to getting off the train, to ending this horrible, travel nightmare but now that I knew where we were headed…Well, it didn’t really matter.  Nothing really mattered anymore.  I felt utterly destroyed.  My heart had been run through the blender too many times to ever rebuild the pieces.  All that was left for me now was to keep Sebastian safe and to want the right thing.  It was my only possible redemption.” 

If they succeed in dissolving the Order (which led them to Greece and a show-down that culminated with an explosion and a new loss of memory), will there still be a HEA for Grace and Sebastian?  Does true love conquer all?

Link to order Silver Dew: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

 

perf5.500x8.500.inddSapphire Sun, the last book in the Lost Magic Trilogy brings us full circle.  Our hero and heroine have faced the odds, but is the danger truly defeated?  Back in Canada with only memory loss as the consequence of their journey (ok Grace has a scar on her neck), Sebastian and Grace are planning their wedding.  Even though this permanent union should bring them closer, circumstances beyond their control are wedging them steadily apart.  Grace wants to remember; Sebastian says the past is better left there.  If I know Grace’s tenacity after 3 books in…

And the more I thought about it, the more convinced I became that even though the past might be difficult to face, and even though we might remember things we’d rather forget, we still needed to know what we’d been through.  I needed to know, to understand how I’d gotten to where I was today.  There were too many unanswered questions, too many mysteries that I couldn’t leave unresolved.

Grace’s pact to save Sebastian and herself at the end of SD does not allow for vacillation; a spirit has come to collect, to make good on Grace’s promise to teach and guide the natural users of the Lost Magic.  How can Grace successfully comply with her vow and simultaneously deceive Sebastian (because she also promised him she would leave it be).  Someone has to grow up!

You’ve heard me say that writing reviews can be difficult.  Try reviewing a trilogy and tiptoeing around spoilers…WOW.  As is so frequently found in YA literature, enter the love triangle.  This one was slow to develop and not as conventionally superficial, so for that, Ms. Davis earns points.  David joined up with Sebastian and Grace in Greece.  Thanks to Grace’s “wipe-out”, *this is me tiptoeing*, everyone’s memory is sketchy.  This turns out to be a kindness because guess what?  David is actually a bitter enemy; he’s the reason behind the scar on Grace’s neck!  When Grace begs the spirits to locate Sebastian (yes, he’s gone MIA 2 weeks before their wedding), they insist upon the condition that she must train those with the true ability.  The mission is on.  Nothing else matters to Grace:  Find Sebastian, accept her fate, and comply with her promise.

A surprising twist at the end of the story was inspired!  The final battle was nothing short of epic magic.  I did not expect Grace and Sebastian to face another hazardous incarnation, but it completed the journey in a most satisfying way.  As a YA book, there were sentiments that were too drawn out for my personal tastes; the “if you’re happy, I’m happy” mentality was a bit exasperating, but kudos to Ms. Davis for consistently breathing fresh life into these characters.  Just when I thought I’d had more than enough devotions, Ms. Davis’ writing would once again capture me and carry me through the next dilemma.  My only other minimal complaint was the Grace POV format.  At times there were too many explanations instead of dialogue.  I could have used more of Sebastian’s swoon-worthiness!   

Obstacles are meant to deter you, but Grace and Sebastian were bound to each other on several different levels.  Take this journey and have your faith restored in true love.

Link to order Sapphire Sun: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher

Giveaway-Black and Seafoam



Suzi is offering personalized ebook copies of all three books in The Lost Magic series to one lucky member at The Reading Cafe. The ebooks will be in the winner’s format of choice and will include a signature scanned and formatted into the front matter of the ebook.


1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page.


2. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter or Facebook, please post your email address with your comment.


3. Please make a comment to Suzi


4. Giveaway open to USA only.


5. Giveaway runs from March 24 – 27, 2013


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Rebecca’s Lost Journals Volumes 1-4 by Lisa Renee Jones-combined review

			
						

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REBECCA’S LOST JOURNALS (The Inside Out Trilogy Journals) by Lisa Renee Jones


The SeductionTHE SEDUCTION (Rebecca’s Lost Journals Volume #1)


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Release Date: January 28, 2013


For anyone who has read or is following Lisa Renee Jones’ Inside Out Trilogy, the premise focuses on Sara McMillan-a woman who has found and is reading a series of journals written by a young woman who was once employed by the same man with whom Sara is now working. Hoping to find some clue about Rebecca’s disappearance, Sara searches for answers in the revealing journals about the ‘what’ and the ‘who’ in Rebecca’s life.


THE SEDUCTION is the introductory novella (part 1 of 5) that reveals the premise behind the seduction of Rebecca. Rebecca is a hard working young woman, who knows a thing or two about difficult times and paying the bills. But the day Rebecca steps into The Riptide art gallery her life will change forever. What ensues is a journal of reflection; of question; of need; of worries. She is a woman torn between doing what she knows to be right and taking the plunge into a world of unknowns and new beginnings.


The journal itself is a time line of dates and what Rebecca deems important enough to write, but throughout we are kept in the dark as to the identity of the man who is pulling Rebecca deeper into a life she had never experienced or knew existed. Rebecca will begin to discover that what the ‘Master’ wants, the ‘Master’ gets and it will be Rebecca who must make the ultimate decision if and when to take the next step.


THE SEDUCTION is an interesting introspective into one woman’s journey of discovery. The ‘Master’ claims that Rebecca will hold all of the power, but Rebecca sees something different-the possibility of losing more than her heart-but herself.


Copy supplied by the author.


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The ContractTHE CONTRACT (Rebecca’s Lost Journals Volume #2) by Lisa Renee Jones


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Release Date: February 18, 2013


THE CONTRACT is the second novella (part 2 of 5) in Lisa Renee Jones’ Rebecca’s Lost Journals series. We follow as Rebecca grows into a strong, independent and successful salesperson for The Riptide art gallery; she is a woman coming into herself. But Rebecca is also a woman contemplating a different offer-one that involves being the ’slave’ to her ‘Master.’


When the ‘Master’ offers a contract, Rebecca is as lost and confused as any newbie in the Dom/sub lifestyle. She begins to question the minute details of the contract knowing that the wording could place her in a very precarious position (so to speak). When the ‘Master’ begins to demonstrate what it is he expects from his slave, Rebecca will reconsider exactly what and to whom she is about to turn over control.


Lisa furthers the storyline as a few of the secondary characters are given a voice or frame of reference. There are a couple of men vying for Rebecca’s attention but it is both her boss and her ‘Master’ that will garner most of the journal’s intimate details as well as the continuing series of nightmares that plague Rebecca throughout the books.


THE CONTRACT continues Rebecca’s journey from independent woman to ‘slave’, but it also allows the reader to get a deeper understanding of the nuances behind the fear and anxiety facing a young woman trapped between the life she wants and the lifestyle she is being offered.


Copy supplied by the author.


***********************


His SubmissiveHIS SUBMISSIVE (Rebecca’s Lost Journals Volume #3) by Lisa Renee Jones


Amazon.com/ Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /Barnes and Noble/


Release Date: April 22, 2013


HIS SUBMISSIVE is the third novella (part 3 of 5) in Lisa Renee Jones’ Rebecca’s Lost Journal series. Rebecca has taken the next step of her journey and with that the realization that she wants to be the submissive to her ‘Master’. But Rebecca’s acceptance and contract negotiations do not run smoothly at the outset. Eager to finalize the deal, Rebecca will soon learn that even contract negotiations are not done without permission from the Master. The rules are made for a reason and if broken, punishment is never negotiable.


The reader is privy to Rebecca’s concerns and worries as well as her emotional development whenever her Master commands. We watch and learn along with Rebecca as she endeavors to become the submissive. The reader is given a front row seat into the world in which Rebecca has recently consented. Some things are not as they appear and Rebecca’s introduction into the world of BDSM will shock as well as arouse when she must bow to her ‘Master’s’ demands.


HIS SUBMISSIVE gives the reader a glimpse into the world of Dom/sub relationships and what our heroine Rebecca will encounter in the next stage of her acceptance and submission. I can only hope that Rebecca does not lose herself to the man who will be taking the ultimate control of her body and her heart.


Copy supplied by the author.


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My MasterMY MASTER (Rebecca’s Lost Journals Volume #4) by Lisa Renee Jones


Amazon.com/ Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /Barnes and Noble/


Release Date: May 2013


MY MASTER is the fourth novella (part 4 of 5) in Lisa Renee Jones’ Rebecca’s Lost Journal series. My Master focuses on Rebecca’s contract renewal as ‘slave’ to the ‘Master’. But Rebecca knows that the terms laid out in the contract are not what she is willing to sacrifice for or negotiate. As she recalls everything she was ‘asked’ to do, Rebecca will take a long, hard look to determine if she was truly the one with all of the control.


At this point, Rebecca has become much more than the ‘slave’ to her ‘Master’ but the ‘Master’ is unable to take the next step in their relationship. There is a stumbling block for Rebecca when she knows what the ‘Master’ wants is not a relationship but a willing slave for now and in the future. The ‘Master’ has built a lifestyle, one of which Rebecca has become an intricate and important part, but one that still involves a ‘slave’ to his ‘Master.’ When Rebecca asks for more, the ‘Master’ is not able to comply.


My Master is a revealing look at Rebecca’s fears of losing herself to the man with whom she may be falling in love. But love doesn’t recognize the dark side of the ‘Master’ and it will be take all of her strength to show the ‘Master’ what it is SHE wants –now and in the future. Lisa takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride as we are witness to Rebecca’s pain and sorrow at the choices she will have to make.


My heart broke for Rebecca throughout the novella series. Although she went into the contract knowing that the arrangement was purely a ‘Master to slave’ relationship, I could feel the pain and sorrow when Rebecca finally realized that what she wanted from her ‘Master’ was more than he was willing to give. The outcome was expected but the rush of sympathy can only be explained as someone who was looking for love and acceptance, only to lose herself in the process. When Rebecca begins to take back control of her life, there will be more than one broken heart in the end. Perhaps it is Rebecca who has taken the ultimate control of a man’s heart and his soul. Lisa Renee pulls the reader into the storyline; we become one with Rebecca as she experiences the emotional highs and lows on her journey of self discovery.


Copy supplied by the author.


Reviewed by Sandy


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Interview with Cherif Fortin

			
						

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Interview with Cherif Fortin


From the Website:  Cherif Fortin is a Chicago-based photographer, illustrator, graphic designer, firefighter and former romance cover model.


As a photographer, Cherif specializes in advertising, editorial, and portrait work, and his client list includes such notables as NBC Television, UPN Television, Nielsen Media Research, Abelson-Taylor Inc, Accenture, Arthur Anderson LLP, BASF Corporation, Delnor Hospital, Duff & Phelps, HUB International, and RSM Mcgladrey.


As an illustrator, Cherif’s digital and traditional artwork has been commissioned by publishers the world over, including Random House, Genesis Press, Harlequin Books, Kensington Books, Dorchester Publishing, Penguin Group (Putnam), and Medallion Press. His work can be seen on the covers of millions of books in North America, South America, Europe and Japan.


Ellie_ElvenKingCherif is also one half of the creative team known as Fortin & Sanders (along with mentor and famed photographer/artist Lynn Sanders), writing and illustrating romance fiction. Their credits include Passion’s Blood, Medallion Press, 1998 & 2008, Ellie and the Elven King (with Helen Rosburg), Medallion Press, 2002, and There be Dragons (with Heather Graham), Medallion Press, 2009.Fortin & Sanders’ work has been featured in the pages of Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, the National Enquirer, Art & Business News, Publisher’s Weekly, London Times, Chicago Sun Times and in the Passion’s Flame (2002) and Men of Romance (2005) calendars.


Cherif sums up his creative philosophy with the conviction that, “all art is artifice; created to enhance a desired effect. Whether the tool at hand is a camera, a paint brush, or a computer, what matters ultimately is the final image and how well it communicates the intended effect.”


Cherif is available for photography, illustration, and graphic design work. To inquire, click here. International assignments are welcome.


Interview Seafoam


Hi Cherif and welcome to The Reading Café.


TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us about yourself?


Cherif Fortin FireCherif: Currently I enjoy two careers: I am a full-time firefighter for a busy suburban department near Chicago and also a freelance illustrator/photographer. I’ve been a fireman for 9 years and an artist since, well, forever. Prior to working as a firefighter, I worked as a stunt performer for a medieval-themed dinner show company called Medieval Times. This lasted 12 years and my duties included sword fighting, horseback riding, and training of both horses and stuntmen. In 1993, Lynn Sanders and I started a commercial art and photography studio which has been in business ever since. We’re known as Fortin and Sanders and we provide a variety of services including book cover illustration, design, high end portraiture and event photography.


Click Fortin and Sanders for website


TRC: Currently you are one half of the writing and illustrating team of Fortin and Sanders. What sparked your interested in illustrating and graphic design? Have you always had a talent for design work?


Cherif: I’ve always been into art, ever since I was old enough to hold a crayon. Early on I was especially fond of drawing cartoons like the ones in the Asterix and Tin Tin books my uncles had lying around. As I grew older, my influences broadened, and I fell in love with the works of the great illustrators. It wasnt until my early twenties that I realized I could possibly make a living through art.


TRC: What is your role at Fortin and Sanders? Is most of your work a collaborative effort?


Passions_BloodCherif: I am co-owner of the business, along with Lynn. My main job is to work as a photographer and illustrator, but being that it is a small business, I also do a little bit of everything else: marketing, sales, promotions, etc. The majority of our work is done as a collaboration, but Lynn and I both do a lot of our own solo work. For example, Lynn is currently working on developing her own line of children’s books and I am doing my own series of fantasy/mythological paintings. Meanwhile, we are both collaborating on a couple of portraits and some new book cover illustrations.


TRC: What challenges do you face as a graphic designer and illustrator? How do you handle the pressure and difficulties of a deadline?


Cherif: I think the biggest challenges are the non-artistic ones: finding clients, marketing the studio, keeping up with changing trends in the industry, etc. Being a freelance illustrator/photographer is as much about being a business person as it is about being a creative artist. It can be hard balancing both sides of myself.


TRC: Would you please tell us about one of your most surprising or interesting photography shoot?


Cherif: There have been many interesting shoots over the years, it’s hard to pick just one! On a photoshoot in Texas, we once had two Andalusian stallions escape from the handlers and run free in a National Park for two hours. That was surprising to say the least. On the same shoot, I leaned against a tree wearing only a loincloth and discovered the joys of fire ants running up my back side! Probably my favorite shoot of all time was for an illustrated book project we did called Saracen featuring models Stacy Walker and Patrick Lambke. We worked for a couple days near Haystack Rock in Oregon riding horses in the sandy dunes and in the ocean. It was amazing.


TRC: Do you have a favorite piece of work/art/photograph and where may we see it?


Cherif Fortin collage 1

Cherif: Honestly, I dont have just one absolute favorite. There’s different things I like about many of our paintings. The book covers I posed for opposite my wife Dawn are definitely among my favs, both for personal reasons and because I think they were some of our most visually successful illustrations. They include the covers of Virginia Henley’s A Year and a Day and Teresa Medeiros’s Charming the Prince. You can see them at my Website ; On the technical side, I am most proud of the illustrations we did for our latest project, an illustrated book app for the iPad titled Angelique. It’s the first time I produced a book using 100% digital painting techniques and I’m pretty happy with how it all came out.


TRC: From where do you get your inspiration?


Angelique1Cherif: I find ideas have never been a problem, it’s the execution that can be tricky! For me, ideas come from everywhere: literature, art, movies, comics, video games, magazines, conversations with friends, etc. I try to stay inspired by keeping in touch with other artists online, visiting art blogs and forums, and I keep an “inspiration” folder on my pc in which I put works that for one reason or another catch my eye. It’s at well over 2 gigs in size currently, and I add to it nearly every day. If I find I’m blocked for new ideas I just rummage through that folder a little and in no time my juices start flowing.


TRC: At The Reading Café we first became aware of you as a cover model for numerous romance novels. Do you know on how many covers you have appeared? Do you remember your first cover on which your image appeared?


Pride of lionsCherif: My first cover was for author Marsha Canham’s book, Pride of Lions. I remember it well because Marsha was instrumental in getting us the assignment from her publisher. I cant say how many covers I’ve appeared on, because many of my paintings have been sold to secondary markets in Europe, South America, and Asia, and I dont always see the finished application. If I had to estimate, I would probably say it’s in the neighborhood of several hundred.


 


Cherif Fortin Collage 2


TRC: Are you still active in the romance cover industry? Photographer?Designer? Model?


Cherif: I am still active in the romance industry as an illustrator. I continue to work for publishers and authors doing art for book covers. I love doing covers and I hope I can stay an active part of the romance publishing world for years to come.


TRC: From the covers on which your image has appeared, which is your favorite and why?


Passions blood Blood of roses

Cherif: Probably the cover of Blood of Roses, by Marsha Canham. Not sure why, there’s just a wistful quality about it and I think it was a flattering depiction of me 🙂 Also, any of the images from our book, Passion’s Blood.


TRC: What do you feel is the most important or interesting aspect of the romance cover industry?


Cherif: Well, there are a lot of things about the romance cover industry that have surprised me. When I first got involved, I didnt expect the genre to be so enormous. Romance is truly a driving force in the market place. I also didnt realize how integral art is to the genre: readers love and expect good art, which is awesome. The most pleasant surprise by far was how genuine and welcoming the community of readers is. I have made many excellent personal friends over the years through my exposure to the romance industry, and I cant say that about every arena of my work.


TRC: The romance cover model is the epitome of the hero or heroine within the pages of the storylines and many readers use the image as a reference to the character image. How important do you feel the cover images are to the storylines and do you believe that a cover can make or break a book sale?

Cherif: I think there are a lot of reasons why a given book will fail or succeed, some of which have nothing to do with the cover. Having said that, I do believe cover art has a special responsibility for a book’s success because it has to make that critical first impression. The unfortunate reality is that if the cover art is weak, many buyers won’t take the time to investigate the book further. Artists who want to break into this field have to realize the importance of the work they are doing and the number of people who are counting on them, not to place undo pressure, but to foster due diligence in terms of research, execution, attention to details, etc.



The art is also important to the fans. Fans love it when the art captures the feeling of the book and the characters. When the art is out of place with the story, readers remember and authors hear about it (sometimes for years). Some of the responsibility for getting this right lies with the editors and art directors, but if direction has been provided, a good artist will make sure to capture every detail.


TRC: Nude photography is sometimes a controversial aspect in the modeling industry due to the nature of the photographs. Some photographs are sensual but others border on pornographic. What is your opinion regarding nude photography? What advice would you give to upcoming and new models in the industry?


Cherif: There’s virtually no call whatsoever in romance for a model to have to pose completely nude. Partial nudity on set is sometimes expected, but the final images will almost always suggest nudity (rather than show it). If a romance industry photographer insists a model pose nude, I would be suspicious. Like everything else in life, use common sense and dont be afraid to stand up for yourself.


There Be DragonsTRC: Are any of your children interested in a modeling career? What advice would you give regarding the modeling industry?


Cherif: So far, none of my kids has expressed an interest in modeling, though all three are artists. Best advice I have for all models is plan for a future after modeling. It comes way too soon.


TRC: On what are you currently working?


Cherif: I am working with author Madeline Hunter on her brand new website. She wants the site to be something very special for her readers, and I am doing a ton of original, hand-painted artwork trying to capture the mood of her books. Can’t say more than that at this time, but stop by Madeline Hunter and to check it out!


TRC: Would you like to add anything else?


Cherif: Thank you very much for including me at The Reading Cafe. Anyone who wants to keep in touch with me can do so via my website HERE or through facebook HERE . See you online!


LIGHTNING ROUND


Favorite Food

Sushi


Favorite Dessert

Chocolate anything


Favorite TV Show

Dr Who


Favorite Movie

LOTR, Excalibur, Conan, Dune, 5th Element, Big Trouble in Little China, The Thing (John Carpenter version), etc. Love fantasy and scifi.


Last Movie You Saw

The Hobbit


Dark or Milk Chocolate

Both!


Favorite Dream Car

Dont care. Something with lots of vowels in the name.


Do you have any pets?

10 month old Doberman named Shogun.


TRC: Thank you Cherif for taking the time to answer our questions. You have an amazing repertoire of covers, designs and photographs. We wish you all the best.


Cherif: Thanks!


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Wild Invitation by Nalini Singh – a Review

			
						

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Wild Invitation by Nalini Singh – a Review


wild invitation

Links to order Wild Invitation:

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depostory / Kobo


Wild Invitation by Nalini Singh consists of 4 novellas, which takes place in her wonderful  Psy/Changeling world. Below is my review on each novella.


Beat of Temptation


Beat of Temptation is the story of Tamsyn; healer of Dark River Leopards, and Nathan Ryder, a Dark River Sentinel.  This novel was a plethera of different nuances.  At times tender, at times romantic, at times frustrating, and more than a little intense with its emotion. 


This story held a unique mood, in that our two main characters knew for several years that they were mates, and yet had not completed the bond.  First Tamsyn was much too young when Nathan knocked upon her door to wish her happy birthday on year, and felt the “pull”.  From then on, he was shadowed by the night the world turned upside down for all the Pack of Dark River.  The night when young Tamsyn beame healer.


Honorable to his core, and loving Tammy for as long as he could remember, Nate fights his inner beasts demands for its mate, struggling to give the woman who is his everything–some semblence of freedom.  Knowing his own level of dominance, and that once the bond was completed she would probably have no more.  Tamsyn on the other hand, wants no such freedom.  And faces her own struggle to make her man see that what she truly needs is Nate by her side, anchoring her with his love.


Can Nate realize the error of his misplaced honor before he loses her forever?   


This short story is one of my personal favorites.  And seeing the soul deep connection of a young Lucas Hunter, with the members of his pack–long before he even became Alpha–was wonderful. 


Stroke of Intimacy




The second addition to Nalini Singh’s novella is titled Stroke of Intimacy–and features a Human teacher named Annie, and a Dark River Leopard named Zach.  


I was the least excited to read this segment, simply because I had only ever heard mention of this couple briefly.  Typically, its the characters I know well from previous installments that draw me into the story; more than ones I know little about.


However, I was pleasantly surprised by how thuroughly entertained I was by this unlikely courtship.  Zach is one of those rare male protaganists that are somehow equal parts dominant, and equal parts tender in the dealings with their woman.  I fell in love with this chraracter instantly…and enjoyed how quickly Zach charmed Annie’s Changeling prejudiced mother into liking him.


The heroine Annie has not had the best example of how a man who truly treasures his lady behaves.  Although cleary falling in love with Zach, she struggles with letting him in completely. 


It was wonderful to witness Zach showing Annie what Changeling love looks like, and Annie learning how to trust.


Declaraton of Courtship




Declaration of Courtship, Nalini’s third segment of the Novella Wild Invitation, also offers a truly unique situation unto the Psy-Changelings world.  In this short story we see Grace; one of the most submissive wolves in the SnowDancer den pursued by a dark, lethally dominant Luietenant named Cooper. 


These two changelings are literally on polar opposite sides of the heirarchy that exists in Snow Dancer.  So one can imagine the utter shock Grace receives when she hears the quietly spoken declaration of Cooper’s plan to “court” her.  There wasn’t a single thing I didn’t emphatically enjoy about this couple’s harrowing journey to come to terms with their differences, in order to achieve love.  


Cooper’s single minded focus, and drive to win the woman who has captivated him.  The lengths with which he goes to show her that their love can overcome the vast gap seperating them in the heirachy.  The gentleness with which he calms her wolf out of it’s fear of his intense dominance. 


I loved how shy, submissive Grace also fights with a strength of will at par with her mate, in order to discover–and heal–the pain Cooper hides from everyone.


This was a highly emotional, and fun filled story.  I applaud Ms. Singh’s ability to give her readers the feeling of a full length novel–with a beginning, middle, and end–in a little over 100 pages. 


Texture of Intimacy




Last but SO not least; is Texture of Intimacy. This is a futhering of Walker Lauren and SnowDancer healer; Lara’s story. The book begins the day after Walker and Lara’s mating bond snaps into place. The timeline is set after the events in Kiss of Snow. It is only ten chapters long. And for one reason alone….I would have paid any price to read it. Walker Lauren.


First, I must convey that although Judd Lauren is my third utmost favorite male character in literature, I am head over heels in love with his brother. I have been fascinated with this stoic, silent, mysterious man since he first stepped onto the pages in Slave to Sensation. I can only state that there is no other character in literature quite like him. Not only is Walker THE most moving character of the Psy-Changelings series for me–hands down, but he is one of the most moving characters in all of fiction. Period. To put it into the simplest of terms….Walker breaks. My. Heart.


I lost count how many times I was moved to tears while learning about the horrors of this man’s past. A lone Psy professor helpless against a twisted society hell bent on turning children into weapons. Walker; issuing out detention under the watchful eye of the other adults…comforting the broken, batterted, sobbing children behind closed doors. Risking everything in order to give them what little rest, and reprieve he could offer. Walker; helpless as the innocence, laughter, and life was beaten from his own brother every day–until all that was left of the Judd he knew was a killing machine. Walker; witnessing the suffering of his sister, as she was forced to relinquish her child to a monster. Walker, powerless to stop his sister’s suicide. Walker, unable to save the niece he had always loved like a daughter. Walker; learning of the termination of his unborn child…silently dying inside, as the viscious cycle began with his other two children.


*rubbing the ache in my chest*


I am staggered with emotion for this character. Depsite the brutal attempt of his handler’s to drive the emotion out of him, Walker continued to feel. Walker continued to protect. Walker continued to act as an anchor for his brother, his niece, Marlee, Toby, and countless other children. I am awestruck by the size of this man’s heart, and the beauty of his soul. He never broke. Never wavered in his ability to supress the chaos going on inside him. Learning, and utilizing his vast telepathic gifts to appear wholly “silent” so that nothing outworldly shown. This survival mechanism was devloped out of desperation, knowing the moment the other Psy learned Walker was not like them, it was over. I liken this man’s strength of will to that of an immovable mountain, and I will FOREVER lament that this phenomenal, once in a lifetime character did not receive a full length novel.


The interactions between Walker and Lara, as they struggle to adjust to the demands of their bond–is heartbreakingly tender. But it was the emotionally poignant interactions between Walker, and Judd that just about did me in. Seperately these two characters could bring a reader to their knees with the pain they have suffered, but together in happy moments? Mr. Iceman Judd Lauren smiling? Laughing? Teasing and making jokes with the brother who never gave up on him? Stone faced Walker Lauren’s cheeks creasing??? GAWD. These moments with the Lauren brother’s were like a soothing balm applied on scorched skin for me.


Texture of Intimacy was a wonderful short story that offers readers previously unknown glimpses into the arrival of the Lauren’s at SnowDancer…and bears the answer to two very important questions. Can a man with the deeply ingrained instinct to close himself off in situations of extreme emotional duress–open himself up completely to the woman he loves? Can the woman with a Healer’s soul penetrate the barrier surrounding her mate’s heart, so that she may become HIS anchor?


I cannot get enough of the Psy-Changeling‘s world created by Nalini Singh, and Wild Invitation was a wonderful treat leading up to the release of the next installment Heart of Obsidian.        


Reviewed by Miranda


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Edge of Dawn (Midnight Breed #11) by Lara Adrian-Review and Giveaway

			
						

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Edge of Dawn by Lara Adrian Midnight Breed Series #11-a review


Edge of Dawn


Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository


ABOUT THE BOOK: Released February 21, 2013


Twenty years after the terror of First Dawn—when mankind learned that vampires lived secretly among them—the threat of violence reigns as the two species struggle to coexist. The only group preserving the fragile harmony is the Order, an elite cadre of Breed warriors dedicated to protecting humans and vampires alike. And in this precarious world of torn loyalties and shattered trust, Mira, a fiery squad captain, finds that every fight bears an intensely personal cost.


Raised among the Order, Mira has always believed in the warrior’s code of swift—and even lethal—justice. But the one thing she desires more than the Order’s hard-won acceptance is Kellan Archer, a sexy but troubled Breed fighter. In love with him since childhood, Mira once broke through his tough exterior during an unexpected night of rapture, but the next day he mysteriously disappeared, never to return.


Kellan didn’t think he would ever see Mira again—or have to confront the truth of why he left. After abandoning the Order years ago, he now leads a band of human rebels intent on carrying out their own vigilante rule of law. Yet a high-profile kidnapping assignment brings him face-to-face with the past he sought to avoid, and the striking woman he has tried desperately to forget. And as tensions mount and the risk of bloodshed grows, Kellan and Mira must take sides—between the competing missions that dominate their lives, and the electrifying passion that claims their hearts.


****************


Review:


Oh my sweet Jesus, where to start with this one. As the blurb above says, this one takes place twenty years after the world found out that, yes, vampires do exist. Usually, that kills a series for me. I mean, really?? Where is the fun in everyone knowing? The secret world is part of the lure, at least for me. So, I was truly prepared to not only dislike this book, but to hate it. We jump forward twenty years. Will the integrity of the base storyline be lost? Will the Order still be large and in charge? The last we saw of this bunch, there were children running around and babies being born, so how in the world can Adrian maintain any consistency by pulling such a bold move? Even Mira, the heroine of this book, was a child last we saw. Did I hate it? Um, no……I FREAKING LOVED IT!!


I do have to take the “blurb” above to task however. As far as Mira and the Order are concerned, Kellan didn’t disappear. He died in a fiery explosion right in front of Mira’s eyes. Granted, there was no body, but everyone thought he died that night twenty years ago. Imagine Mira’s shock when she finds herself kidnapped by rebels, only to discover that Kellan Archer is their leader. How many nights had she cried herself to sleep wishing it were all a bad dream? She had loved Kellan since they were children and to believe that he chose to leave her is almost worse than him dying. On the other hand, imagine Kellan’s shock when he sees the fair haired Mira being brought to their compound. But, the feelings they had for each other was a lifetime ago, right?


Adrian does a wonderful job with this story. The humans are still leery of the vampires and the vampires are just as leery of them. Lucan and the Order are determined to keep all of the races safe, and I love how their children play integral parts in figuring out just what is going on and what needs to happen. There is romance, fierce loyalty, political intrigue, betrayal and a revelation at the end that leaves you saying “why in the hell didn’t I see that coming?!?!”! I have been a fan of this series for a long time, and am so glad to see it continue. And, I for one, can’t wait for the next installment. Well played Lara Adrian……….Very well played!!!!!


Reviewed by Vickie M.


Copy supplied by Netgalley


Giveaway-redandblack_zps8ff4dc4b


Lara Adrian has offered a paper copy of DARKER AFTER MIDNIGHT and swag to one lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.


Darker After Midnight


 


1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.


2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address along with your comment.


3. Giveaway runs March 22-25, 2013


4. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only


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A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon-a review

			
						

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A TASTE OF TROUBLE by Gina Gordon- a review


A Taste of Trouble


Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO


ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 18, 2013


When Liv Crawford decided to pursue her dream of owning her own bakery, it was no surprise that she forgot to add “maintaining a serious relationship” to her business plan. Not when she believes a cupcake can fix anything, even loneliness.


Jake Miller isn’t concerned about being lonely. He’s cast aside his playboy lifestyle to pursue something more meaningful, his passion for photography. So, when his boss asks him to pursue a beautiful woman and coerce her to his office for a disguised meeting—no matter what it takes—in exchange for the opportunity to turn his hobby into a career, he jumps at the chance. At first sight, Liv awakens his long-buried desire for commitment, but his secret mission could ruin his hopes of keeping her.


Despite Liv’s commitment to swear off relationships to run her bakery, Jake quickly becomes her number one distraction. Yet, even her misgivings can’t tame the heat as they straddle the line between love and ambition.


********************


REVIEW: A TASTE OF TROUBLE is the latest contemporary romance release from author Gina Gordon. The focus of the storyline centers on Liv Crawford as she endeavors to start up her own cupcake bakery after achieving success with her mentor’s competing business. In the meantime Liv meets Jake Miller and their attraction to one another is immediate and something about Liv tugs at Jake. But things begin to spiral out of control when everything starts to fall apart the closer to opening day and Liv begins to suspect someone close is undermining the entire process.


A Taste of Trouble takes the reader on a roller coaster ride for two people who know what they want but have to make a decision about life choices and, in the bargain each will lose something and someone close to their heart. We watch as Liv is betrayed not once but twice by two people she considers more than friends; and Jake learns the truth about his latest assignment when it compromises both his ethics and his heart.


A Taste for Trouble is an interesting storyline. I was frustrated along with Liv knowing that someone so close would stoop so low. There was a twist in the storyline when Liv discovered the secrets from the past were not quite what she was led to believe and the ball was now in her court if she wanted to pursue a relationship with someone she had grown to hate as a child. If you like a romantic storyline, without too many complications, A Taste of Trouble is a nice read. There is also the potential for future storylines as we meet a few of Jake’s buddies who are his current go-to men when his relationship begins to fall apart.


Copy supplied by the author.


Reviewed by Sandy


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