Monthly Archives: July 2013

Kiss Across Time Series review by Tracy Cooper-Posey

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Kiss Across Time Series review by Tracy Cooper-Posey

Kiss Across Time Collage

=>*KISS ACROSS TIME (book 1) will be FREE from July 24 – 28 for Kindle*<=

Kiss Across TimeKiss Across Time – Book 1
by Tracy Cooper-Posey
Release Date: April 2013

About the book:

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk

A single kiss can change more than one life…or two.

Taylor Yates is fired for insisting the 5th Century Arthurian poet, Inigo Domhnall, existed. When she hears Domhnall‘s lyrics in a death metal song, she engineers a meeting with lead singer, Brody Gallagher. An unintended kiss sends them spinning back to the poet‘s time, when Saxons were pillaging King Arthur‘s Britain.

Brody‘s all for kissing her again. More, he wants her to kiss his friend and lover, Veris, to see what will happen. When Veris‘ kiss sends them back to the time of the Vikings neither man is willing to let Taylor simply walk out of their lives.

But Brody and Veris are more than lovers and sexual playmates, as Taylor learns when they investigate the kisses that send them across time. The secrets they share have the power to completely alter her life.

••••••••••••••••

Review:  Kiss Across Time begins with Taylor Yates losing her job at the university where she was up for tenure. Seems her obsession with proving the existence of poet Inigo Domhnal has made her a laughing stock and the university wants to distance themselves from her and all mention of the illusive Domhnal. But, as she arrives at her apartment, she hears the poet’s lyrics, of all places, in a death metal song. She enlists the help of her neighbor in order to attend the concert. A quick kiss from the lead singer, Brody Gallagher, is not only hot, but changes her life forever. Seems the kiss caused a time jump, for not only her, but Brody as well. She is ushered backstage after the concert, where she encounters Veris, Brody’s lover. Once he kisses her, another time jump occurs, and Brody and Veris know that Taylor is theirs. Now, to convince Taylor…….

Taylor soon discovers that Brody and Veris are centuries old vampires and that for some reason they time jump when they are intimate with each other. When they jump, it is always back to a time in either Brody or Veris’ past, or a time when they were both present. Brody and Veris have claimed Taylor as their own and have to present her to their queen, and are nervous as to how the meeting will go. Once they meet the queen, they discover that if anything changes when they travel back in time, it can alter their future. Brody and Veris know that the queen is not keen on them keeping her, but the queen also knows that they’ve marked her and she decides to see how it plays out. Because she knows they’ve decided that nothing, or no one, will take Taylor from them.

Kiss Across Time is a relatively short story. You find out their some of their history as the story progresses. I was a little worried that there was no explanation as to why things were happening as they were, but Cooper-Posey does a wonderful job of revealing their histories as the story moves along. Veris and Brody have been together for hundreds of years and easily fit Taylor into their lives. Maybe, a little too easy. But, they embark on a sensuous relationship, and it works. Yes, they are all three in the relationship with each other…..All for one and one for all!!

 

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000026_00025]Kiss Across Swords by Tracy Cooper-Posey
The Kiss Across Time Series – Book 2
Release Date: March 2013

About the book:

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

To save them all they must win back one reluctant heart…again.

Taylor Yates never dreamed growing up she would end up happily living with two drop-dead sexy vampires and time-hopping through their thousand years of personal history. Her life is complete…or is it?

When she finds herself at the siege of Jerusalem during the first crusade, Veris doesn’t know her at all and doesn’t want to. Worst of all, he and Brody are total strangers, and Taylor drives a wedge in deep between them by trying to seduce Veris at their first meeting–not something a lady of the day does if she wants to keep her head.

Taylor and Brody must woo Veris using the customs of medieval England, win his heart and his full commitment before Jerusalem falls in four days’ time–or when they return to their own time, their lives as they know them will be gone…

••••••••••••••••

Kiss Across Swords begins four years after Kiss Across Time ends. And, oh what a story it is. They have come up with a phrase that allows them to know that everyone is aware that they’ve jumped and are all on the same page. Seems jumping can leave you a little dazed. Imagine that?!

When they jump in this installment, they are thrown back into the time when Brody and Veris met and became lovers, during the First Crusade in Jerusalem. One big problem. For some reason, Veris does not recognize Brody or Taylor this go around. And, to top it all off, if Brody and Veris don’t get together during this jump before they all jump back to the present time, the future will be irrevocably changed and Veris will not be part of their lives. Throw in a female vampire who doesn’t want to share Veris with anyone and their battle with the Fatimids and they have their work cut out for them.

The sex scenes in this book are pretty explicit. After all, Brody and Taylor are having to seduce a man whom they both already love and know exactly how to go about it. Because once they get Veris back, Taylor has big news that will forever change their lives.

 

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000026_00025]Kiss Across Chains by Tracy Cooper-Posey
Kiss Across Time Series – Book 3
Release Date: July 1, 2013

About the Book:

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When dying becomes an act of love.

It is four years since Taylor and Brody almost lost Veris during the First Crusade. Now they know how to control time jumps, they have settled into a very nearly perfect, nearly human life, raising their daughter Marit.

When Brody defies Queen Tira to protect Marit, the three of them jump back three days in time to collect evidence the queen set up Brody for a drug bust in retribution. The jump sends them back to Brody’s personal nightmare: Fifth century Constantinople.

While Brody survives as a flogged slave, Taylor masquerades as the wife of an aristocrat and searches for Brody to release him. They must wait for Veris to find them before jumping home and Taylor watches each brutal chariot race, wondering if this will be Brody’s last. Brody once died in the Hippodrome and he is human this time, too….

•••••••••••••••••

Review:  Kiss Across Chains begins four years after Kiss Across Swords. They have settled into their lives and cherish their time with their daughter, Marit. But, once the queen discovers what’s going on, she’s not happy. And, as the blurb says, she sets Brody up to teach them all a lesson. Seems she forgot her lesson in the first book………. No one will intrude upon their family and no one will separate them.

This book has been my favorite so far. The cruelty and torture that Brody endures during their jump back in this one is hard to read. Add to it the fact that Taylor has to witness much of it and the tears fall. Of course they fix the problems that allow them to keep Marit and set things right for their “future”. I loved getting to know more about Brody. And the strength and determination that Taylor exhibits during this jump is inspiring. She’ll do whatever it takes to ensure that her family is reunited. Throw Veris in and these three are unstoppable.

This is a wonderful series. If I’m being honest, the first one was a bit slow, but once I got into the second book, and then the third? I was hooked. I love that we get history lessons through each book. Their jumps back in time do that particular time’s history justice. Cooper-Posey does a wonderful job of filling us in on what’s going on without bogging us down with unnecessary descriptions. You can hear the hooves, hear the chariots and smell the dust. You can also feel the love these three feel for each other and fall head over heels for them yourself. I can’t wait for the next installment!!

Copies supplied by the author

Reviews by Vickie M

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Cloak & Silence by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

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Cloak & Silence by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

cloak & silence

Links to order Cloak & Silence:
Amazon / Barnes & Noble /  Kobo

Description:
Setting: Ichidian Universe

SPOILER ALERT If you haven’t read Born of Silence, there are spoilers contained below.

One of the fiercest soldiers the Phrixians have ever produced, Maris Sulle has been an outsider from the moment he was born different from the rest of his family. He grew up with a secret that cost him everything—his birthright, his family, and his military career. In all his life, he’s only had one love, and he has sacrificed his own happiness to see his best friend reunited with the woman he loves. But now that his good deed is done, he feels lost and adrift. Even though they do their best to include him in their new family, Maris is once again on the outside looking in.

Ture has spent his life hiding from everyone around him—his family, the world, you name it—while trying desperately to fit in. Badly hurt by everyone he’s ever known, he trusts no one except his own best friend. And honestly, he can’t understand why he trusts her. Nor can he believe her when she describes a loyalty between friends the likes of which he’s never seen.

But when Ture is in his darkest hour, he’s saved by a hero he thought only existed in novels. A man who is every bit as scarred and mistrusting as he is—one who has no interest in being dragged into another relationship with anyone.

Having spent his life as a living study of doomed relationships, Maris is well aware of the courtship and fiasco that invariably follows. Still, there is something about Ture he can’t resist. Something that won’t let him walk away when he knows he should.

But when old enemies return to threaten them both, they either have to stand together or die alone.

 

Review;

All I can say is Sherrilyn Kenyon is forever amazing me with her writing and storytelling ability.  I absolutely loved Cloak and Silence and how she wrote this particular story.  You see, this is the first time I’ve ever read a story where the two main characters are male, and wasn’t sure what to expect from her with this one.  I shouldn’t have worried, because true to her nature, she wrote a beautiful story and had me hooked like a fish on a line after the first chapter. 

We previously meet Maris and Ture in Born of Silence, and it was from that point I was intrigued by them. Even though Maris and Ture had limited scenes together in that one, you saw something brewing there and by the end of the book it appeared they were together.  From that point on I wondered if we’d see more of them in their own book, or just as secondary characters in a future book.  I’m really glad Ms. Kenyon decided to listen to her fans and write this one.  She did an amazing job as the story just flowed from beginning to end.  The emotions between not only Maris and Ture, but also between friends, and the love and romance that takes place is very convincing and believable.  It’s no wonder I love this author, you feel and see the love she has for her characters in the way she writes their story.  

In Cloak and Silence, Ms. Kenyon does a wonderful job writing both Maris and Ture’s characters.  She wrote this story with dignity and class, and made my heart break for the cruelty shown towards both Maris and Ture for their sexual  orientation. She never once sugar coated anything, but instead gave us the reality of what their lives were like and will continue to be like.  I enjoyed the slow buildup to the romance between Maris and Ture.  Both had reservations because of their backgrounds but truly liked the other and knew they wanted each other.  Their interactions are funny and sweet at times, while other times are very serious and heartfelt.  She created a wonderful balance within their relationship.

Another aspect of the book I liked was seeing the friendships Maris has with past characters and how he brings Ture into that circle of friends.  This group of friends has a bond that is unbreakable and we see it in how they come together to help each other out no matter what. They would lay down their lives for one another no questions asked, and now Ture is part of that family. They may not be family by blood, but they are family none the less.  Ms. Kenyon has a knack for writing these kinds of friendships and relationships in all of her series.  It’s these moments in her stories that either have me howling with laughter, gasping in shock or screaming in outrage over whatever is going on.  In Cloak and Silence it wasn’t any different. There were many times she had me near tears over heartbreaking conversations, or in fits of laughter over the shenanigans taking place.  Never a dull moment in one of Kenyon’s books.

One final aspect I enjoyed in Cloak and Silence was finally learning more about Maris’ species, the Phrixians.  It was interesting to learn that they are amphibious by nature and shift appearances in water.  I loved the scene where Ture first sees Maris in his true form.  Maris expects revulsion and disgust to show in Ture’s gaze, but instead he’s floored to see wonder and acceptance.  The way Maris and Ture accept the other for who and what they are is wonderful to see.  Too many times society judges people by their differences.  It was a breath of fresh air to see how Maris and Ture are accepted by their friends and ‘true family’ no mater there differences. We get to see just how tight these friends are when Darling has a heart to heart with Maris towards the end of the book, when Darling realizes Maris is afraid of what he has with Ture.  The conversation that takes place is touching, real and you feel Darlings words to Maris deep down in your heart.  Ms. Kenyon definitely has a way with words and knows just the correct way to phrase them to evoke the most emotion out of her readers. 

Cloak and Silence was brilliantly written. If you enjoy a quick read filled with emotion, laughter and tears and of course danger then this one’s for you.  Kenyon truly out does her self with this one. She takes two characters who believe they are destined to be alone for the rest of their lives, constantly battling against the world, only to find each other and see that maybe they can have it all. With the help of their friends, against all odds, they are able to survive the battles that come at them and make it out the other end.  The emotion, conversations and romance is this book are real and heartfelt and like I said earlier, hook the reader like a fish on a line.  You can’t help but cheer on Maris and Ture and want to jump into the battle yourself and dish out a little beat down to the League Assassins who are gunning for Maris.  The fight scene in the end is well written and kept me on the edge of my seat every step of the way.  I enjoyed this book from beginning to end and was sad when I got to the last page. I wanted Maris and Ture’s story to continue.  My fingers are crossed that I see more of this amazing couple in the next League book Born of Fury which is Hauk’s book.  If the little snippet at the end of Cloak and Silence is any indication about what to expect, all I can say is we will be in for one bumpy and crazy ride with Hauk.

Until next time, happy reading    

Reviewed by Marcie

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Tidal by Emily Snow-a review

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TIDAL by Emily Snow-a review

Tidal

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release December 2012

Now that Willow Avery is out of rehab, she’s got one chance left to prove herself before she’s officially on every producer’s shit list. At least, that’s what her parents and agent are claiming. She doesn’t really give a damn if she never makes another movie or not—she just wants to get on with her life, get back to her friends, and find her next escape. But Willow is broke. And whether she likes it or not, acting is the only job she knows how to do.

When she accepts the lead in a beach drama, Willow finds herself in Hawaii. And in Hawaii, she finds Cooper, the gorgeous surfer hired to train her for her new role. With the bluest eyes she’s ever seen and the sexiest Australian accent she’s ever heard, Cooper’s different from the men she’s used to. He doesn’t want to use her. And he refuses to let her fail. But when an old friend re-enters Willow’s life—a friend whose toxicity she’s been drawn to time and time before and whose presence brings about the painful memories she’s tried so hard to suppress—Willow will have to choose between the girl she was and the person she’s becoming. The lifestyle that helps her forget the pain and the guy she’s falling hard for.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TIDAL is a New Adult contemporary romance storyline that could have easily been torn from the pages of a Hollywood gossip magazine. Our heroine Willow Avery has some major issues that land her in rehab on numerous occasions and like many of today’s young stars, the people behind the scenes enable those most vulnerable and susceptible to addiction and ways to relieve the pain. But there are circumstances in both our leading character’s lives that would probably push many people over the edge if there is no one to help ground them in their time of need.

The storyline focuses on Willow Avery whose recent stint at rehab is followed by a leading role in an upcoming remake of the 80s beach movie Tidal. And like the former lead actress from the original movie, Willow is slowly travelling a path of self destruction. Enter Cooper Taylor-a surfing instructor who has been hired to prepare Willow for her role. But Cooper has many secrets that will slowly reveal themselves to Willow-not by choice-but by the paparazzi and greedy rumor hounds.

Tidal is a story of two people from different backgrounds but backgrounds that are more similar than not. The story and plot are predictable like many of the New Adult novels: angst and heartbreak; betrayal and trust; hidden secrets; forgiveness and love. The world building focuses on Willow and Cooper’s current dilemma and also references many flashbacks and memories that triggered Willow’s most recent downfalls and spiral into addiction.

The characters are relatable in a Hollywood sort of way-but as expected Willow is a little defensive when it comes to people trying to get up close and personal. Cooper is a young man who falls hard for the one-time star and as the story develops, loses his heart to the woman trying to survive one day at a time.

Tidal is an enjoyable read about two people destined to fall in love when circumstances force them together because of a lifetime of pain and hurt.

Copy supplied by the publicist.

Review by Sandy

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Savor You (Savor Us #1) by Emily Snow-a review

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SAVOR YOU (Savor Us #1) by Emily Snow-a review

Savor You 2014jpg

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 11, 2013

Kylie Wolfe and guitarist Wyatt McCrae have been bad for each other for the last several years, but it’s impossible for them to end their toxic push and pull. Not when their attraction is constantly fueled by lust and proximity—she’s her older brother’s Lucas’s assistant and Wyatt is his best friend and band mate.

So when Your Toxic Sequel makes a move to record a new album in Nashville, Kylie decides to make the latest break with Wyatt official by getting the hell out of town. She’ll spend a week in New Orleans. A week to immerse herself in the Mardi Gras scene. One week to not think about the last time she was in New Orleans, seven years ago with Wyatt. Seven days where she won’t have to see Wyatt every day just to fall ridiculously in love with him all over again—where, if she wants to, she can have a normal, no-strings attached fling that won’t end in heartbreak.

••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SAVOR YOU is the first storyline (and spin off) in Emily Snow’s New Adult SAVOR US series that focuses on the lives and loves of the members of the rock band ‘Your Toxic Sequel’ first introduced in DEVOURED.

Savor You is a storyline that runs parallel to the events in DEVOURED and follows Kylie Wolfe on her week long journey to forgive and forget Wyatt McCrae-the guitarist for her brother’s band ‘Your Toxic Sequel’. Kylie is Lucas Wolfe’s baby sister; his personal assistant and the woman who has stolen Wyatt’s heart. The novel focuses on Kylie’s need to work both the man and the memories from her life, but all of this is impossible with eight years of history between them and a lifetime of pain and sorrow.

We were first introduced to Kylie and Wyatt in DEVOURED. As Lucas McCrae’s assistant, Kylie is in contact with the band and the members 24/7 and because of the history between Kylie and Wyatt it makes for some uncomfortable moments. When circumstances present themselves for a week of R & R, Kylie shouldn’t be surprised that Wyatt has tracked her down and wants the week to convince Kylie that they belong together. But a theft of her possessions will find Kylie dependent on Wyatt for more than she bargained-the man holds the key to her heart and her soul. But Kylie’s strong, take charge attitude in Devoured is not the same Kylie we see in Savor You. I do not know if that was the intent but in this particular storyline Kylie is not the same person we were first introduced to in her brother’s storyline.

Emily Snow blends the events of DEVOURED with the events of SAVOR YOU and allows the reader an insight into the happenings and events following Kylie’s leave from her position. Because the storyline events run parallel to Devoured, there is some expected overlap and story history. But unlike Devoured, this is not a storyline similar to FSOG et al-this is a story of second chances and forgiveness: a story of two people with an eight year history of an on again/off again relationship that would eat away at their very souls. Although they say love conquers all, it does not conquer lies, betrayal and heartbreaking pain.

The flow and pacing is similar to Devoured, in that it felt jumpy and disjointed. The elephant in the room was never addressed and although Kylie claimed she wanted no physical contact with Wyatt, it was everything she craved. I think it would have been helpful to the storyline if Emily had spent more time on the back story between Kylie and Wyatt as it would have made for some more angst and tension for the reader and given us more with which to compare. It felt like we were missing some important piece of information especially as it pertained to the present situation.

There is also the building of a secondary storyline between Wyatt’s band mate Cal and Kylie’s BFF Heidi. Heidi’s current job is the fuel that fires the couple’s love/hate relationship and you know that their story is in the works. Again, this particular couple, have a history and one that I hope Emily works into the storyline. If you like a story of friends to lovers and forgiveness, Savor You is the perfect read.

Reviewed by Sandy

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DEVOURED (Devoured #1) by Emily Snow-a review

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Devoured (Devoured #1) by Emily Snow-a review

young couple hugging

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

DEVOURED (Devoured #1) by Emily Snow

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 2012

Sienna Jensen had no plans to return home when she graduated college last spring—after all, her dreams lie in California. But when she discovers her grandmother’s Nashville home has been foreclosed, and the new owner has started the eviction process, Sienna has no other choice but go back to Music City. And she comes face to face with the flawed, gorgeous man she never thought she’d see again. The man who now holds the deed to her grandma’s estate.

When millionaire rock star Lucas Wolfe finds the outspoken redhead glaring at him from across a courtroom, he’s both infuriated and intrigued. He still can’t get the night Sienna almost spent with him out of his mind, and the chemistry between them is as undeniable as it was two years ago. He craves Sienna more than ever. And just like everything Lucas hungers for, he’s determined to have her.

Now, Lucas will do whatever it takes to lure Sienna into his bed, even if that means making a deal with her: ten days with him, playing by his rules, and he’ll hand over the deed to her grandmother’s home. Though she agrees to the arrangement, Sienna is conflicted. Because of her duty to her family. Because of promises she’s made to herself and a past that still haunts her. And as Lucas’s game of seduction continues, and Sienna is introduced to his dark, erotic world and even darker background, she realizes that at any moment, she could be devoured.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DEVOURED is the first storyline in Emily Snow’s New Adult Devoured series. Once again, this particular series has capitalized on the Fifty Shades/Beautiful Disaster/Crossfire success, which isn’t a bad thing, because like most trends you must strike while the phenomenon is hot.

Our millionaire rock star Lucas Wolfe-leader of the rock band Your Toxic Sequel- wants the one woman who got away-the only woman who said NO-and the woman he plans to seduce. Seeing Sienna Jensen after two years has stirred up old feelings and emotions. But when Lucas discovers that the property he wishes to purchase is Sienna’s grandmother’s property, Lucas approaches Sienna with a deal-10 days as his ‘assistant’ where she will do everything and anything he asks and at the end of the 10 days the property is hers. But Lucas had other plans and he is hoping that Sienna will be forever his at the end of the week.

Sienna grew up in a dysfunctional family where her drug addicted mother has all but bankrupt her grandmother and destroyed her younger brother. And to complicate matters, the man hoping to purchase the land is Lucas Wolfe-the man to whom she lost her heart and her soul. But Sienna and Lucas did not part ways amicably, in fact, what happened between the two is something she will never forget. But the offer Lucas presents is more than she could ever hope as long as they keep their relationship on a professional level-but Sienna knows Lucas has other plans.

The writing style is simple. The plotline is similar to many of the popular series that follow the Fifty Shades genre but not as angst ridden or dark; there is some BDSM titillation and threats but on the grand scheme of the FSOG phenomenon, the reality is that there is only a small comparison between the series. The hero has a dark past-one that is mired in a secret that threatens the foundation of his future and Sienna’s life. The world building is limited but this is only book one in a series and many of the questions are left unanswered. We learn quite a bit about Sienna and the choices she has made but Lucas has secrets and in this, his character development is limited. He is not necessarily an evil character with nefarious plans for a young woman, but he is a man who wants the only woman that got away-and he goes about it in a way that makes you wonder what are his true intentions. Because of the proposition and everything that it suggests and entails, Lucas comes across as overbearing and dominant-although-he is probably anything but. And again, because of the secret, the reader is left hanging as to who is the real Lucas Wolfe.

The cast and characters, including a troubled brother, a dysfunctional family unit, a BFF who is all about pushing Lucas away and, an ex with an axe to grind are all reminiscent of the ‘other’ series and the ending is a cliffhanger with a hint at what is to come. The flow of the story is a little uneven and disjointed and, a few plotline developments are left hanging but again, this is only book one and let’s hope there are answers in CONSUMED-book two. If you like the premise of Fifty Shades et al, you will like the twist with a rock star millionaire and the woman who got away. This is a second chance storyline about two people who have a small history but one that has never been forgotten.

Emily is working on a spin-off series Savor Us, involving ‘Your Toxic Sequel’ band members and the first storyline was released in June 2013-SAVOR YOU

Copy supplied by the publicist

Reviewed by Sandy

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Marni Mann – Seductive Shadows -Review, Guest Post and Giveaway

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Marni Mann – Guest Post and Giveaway – Seductive Shadows Review

Guest post-White and Red

Before signing with my publisher, a friend from high school, who knew I was querying my first novel, asked if she could interview me on her blog. One of the questions she asked was, “What do you like to write about?” My response was, “It would be easier to tell you what I don’t like to write…I haven’t tried erotica. I don’t know if I could be that honest with a mainstream audience.”

That interview was over two years ago. In the years that have followed, I’ve explored different levels of darkness with my writing. Part of that journey has included taking my readers to uncomfortable places and testing their limits. At one time, I feared pushing those limits. I’ve aged since then, I’ve matured, and now I embrace those fears. I’ve challenged myself to constantly create new ways to trump my previous attempts.

Sex, naturally, became my next challenge.

It’s an act that most of us have experienced. It’s layered and some of those tiers can be extremely dim, gritty, even. But before I delved into those depths, I had to identify the angle of intimacy that I wanted to take. How could I channel the darkness and keep the story erotic and not abusive?

Something that most of us can agree on is it’s much more comforting to be with a man you’ve already been with than a complete stranger. Granting access to your skin can be considered a privilege. But when the exchange of money enters the equation, it doesn’t necessarily feel like such a privilege anymore. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it. But what that does mean is the darkness isn’t defined by what occurred, it’s who it occurred with and where it took place.

Most women crave a man with experienced fingers, a man who isn’t afraid to explore and please. Defining those men was my challenge and so was creating a woman who could be aroused in that type of environment. So I added masks, costumes, titillating backdrops. I created an adult playground, and I’m just as much of a spectator as my readers are.

Within the shadows of each page, scenes that are described in intimate detail, there are glimpses of things I find attractive, faces that captivate me, atmospheres that drive and stimulate my muse. It’s the most honest piece of work I’ve ever created. Sex was much darker than I had anticipated, but I hope to explore it again.

 

About the Author Black and Orange

Marni Mann
A New Englander at heart, Marni Mann is now a Floridian inspired by the sandy beaches and hot pink sunsets of Sarasota. She taps mainstream appeal and shakes worldwide taboos, taking her readers on a dark and breathtaking journey. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, she’s scouring for chocolate, traveling, reading, or walking her four-legged children. 
Visit her at www.marnismann.com.

You can learn more about Marni at the following links:
Website:
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Seductive Shadows
Marni Mann
Release Date: July 17, 2013

Seductive Shadows CoverLinks to order Seductive Shadows: Amazon / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Barnes and Noble / KOBO/ Goodreads

Description:
Charlie is a passionate, sensually-inspired art student, desperately seeking an escape from the abusive past that haunts her and a tragic accident that emptied her heart. Scarred and unable to love, her yearning for physical pleasure leads her into a tantalizing, dangerous world of power and seduction. The anonymity of the deal offers security; the money brings financial freedom and the madam is the mother figure she longs for.

But the thrill of the mansion and its arousing dominance quickly fades when she meets renowned-yet-mysterious Cameron Hardy, whose intense baby blue eyes send a nervous flutter through her core. Cameron is sexy, and not in a subtle way. He stimulates Charlie’s art, her intellect and her desires. Just as he begins to break through her emotional boundaries, she discovers a devastating connection between her past and her scandalous work at the mansion, shattering everything she thought to be true.

Provocative, intoxicating and erotic, Seductive Shadows is the unforgettable tale of a young woman’s self-discovery as she learns to forgive, to love and be loved, and to find redemption amidst a remarkable journey that will captivate your mind and stimulate your soul.

This book is for mature audiences. It contains explicit language and sexual content.

 

Review:

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

What a disturbingly, creepy, intoxicating, messed up, addictive and intriguing read.  Yes that is suppose to sound like a whopper of an oxymoron.  This entire book felt like an oxymoron .. so wrong it was right!  I have just finished it and I am GOBSMACKED and left thinking .. WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!  YET .. I am feeling SATISFIED and MOVED (be that both positively and negatively).  

So .. Seductive Shadows … uummm … Marni Mann where have you been hiding from me and why haven’t I read any of your books before???  

So …. SEDUCTIVE SHADOWS!  LOL  Best described as a thrilling erotica/new adult although while yes there is erotica, it is not the main component of this book.  Actually the main component is the main character and the building of her story!  We meet our leading lady Charlie right from the get go.  Charlie hasn’t and isn’t living the charmed life.  She is a loner, who has grown up without a dad, taking care of of her abusive alcoholic mother while trying to keep her head above water.  Throughout this book we are taken into Charlie’s past via flashbacks of her happier (and not so happier) life moments that include her best friend Emma (and the wonderful relationship she developed with her) and disastrous living situation with her mother.  Presently, Charlie is mourning loss in many ways and finds escape in two things.  Her ART and SEX.

The timing couldn’t have been better when Charlie is approached by “The Mansion” to make money by entering a world that makes it all too easy to forget her life.  She becomes Cee who is buffed and primped and turned into one fantasy after another for many a client while engaging in wonderful sex that allows her to be free.  She is part of a sensual, seductive world that promises the love and sense of family she so desperately requires.  Only ….  is “The Mansion” what is seems to be???  I don’t think so …..

Charlie also is enrolled in art classes where she meets Cameron (a fellow successful artist) who, with her professor, begins to show Charlie that her life is full of promise and that she can find the same satisfaction in her art as she can with her clients.  She soon is questioning her current choices while embarking on new journeys and personal growth. 

Before you know it, Charlie’s journey is not what it seems and she is thrown so many curve balls, be them positive and negative that I am surprised she is actually sane by the end of this book.  What road(s) does she travel??  Does she make the right decisions with regards to her profession and does she have a chance at true love???  Will she be PERMITTED to live HER life???

Seductive Shadows is a dirty, gritty beautiful book that left me feeling very sensual and seduced at times, while fulfilling the need to love a character involved in a great story.  There are twists and turns I didn’t see coming.  This is a heavier read that made me question where it was going too many times to count.  I LOVED THAT!  

So looking forward to diving into more of Marni Mann’s books!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Giveaway-redandblack_zps8ff4dc4b

Marni’s publisher, Booktrope has graciously offered one lucky member of The Reading Cafe a $10 gift card to the winner’s choice of either Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3.  Giveaway open to US Only

4.  Contests runs from July 19 to July 22, 2013

 

 

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Cover Reveal-TORN (Connections #2) by Kim Karr

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Cover Reveal-Torn (The Connections Series #2) by Kim Karr

Torn Cover HD

Title: TORN (Connections #2)

Release date: October 1, 2013

Rock star River Wilde brought Dahlia London back from the brink of hopelessness with his unwavering love and devotion. But their entwined history is about to test the strength of that love…

Dahlia was certain she had found true love and met her ‘Once in a Lifetime’ when she reconnected with River. But Dahlia’s world comes crashing down when someone from her past resurfaces, and all of River’s carefully hidden secrets are exposed.

River wants to show Dahlia that life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass—it’s about dancing in the rain! But how many times can one broken heart be mended? Will River and Dahlia be able to face the turmoil together or will they be torn apart?

PRE ORDER: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / itunes

GOODREADS LINK: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17386062-torn

•••••••••••••••

Connected

Click HERE for our review of CONNECTED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Released May 7, 2013

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What if a ‘Once in a Lifetime’ could happen twice?

Suffering from a past full of tragedy, Dahlia London’s soul has been left completely shattered. Happily ever after is a far cry from reality in her world. But, when she is reconnected with her past, the bonds that form are irrefutable.

When River Wilde, lead singer of The Wilde Ones, comes back into Dahlia’s life, the intensity that fires their relationship combined with underlying feelings that have never died lead her to believe she has met her soulmate.

Struggling with confusion as old connections fade and new ones begin, Dahlia’s grief begins to lift–but guilt remains. River wants to be the one to mend all that is torn within her.

But with a past that is never really gone, can their future survive?

 

Kim Karr logoABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kim Karr

I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

I wear a lot of hats! Writer, book-lover, wife, soccer-mom, taxi driver, and the all around go-to person of the family. However, I always find time to read. One of my favorite family outings use to be taking my kids to the bookstore or the library. Today, my oldest child is in college and my twins are juniors so they no longer go with me on these outings. And although I don’t need to go to the actual store anymore because I have the greatest device ever invented—a Kindle, I still do. There’s nothing like a paperback. So now my four year old and I make dates out of going to the bookstore–it’s time I love and cherish.

I like to believe in soulmates, kindred spirits, true friends, and Happily-Ever-Afters. I love to drink champagne, listen to music, and hopes to always stay young at heart. 

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The Armies of Heaven by Jane Kindred- A Review and Interview with the Author

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The Armies of Heaven by Jane Kindred-A Review and Interview with the Author

The Armies of Heaven June 2013

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THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN (The House of Arkhangel’sk #3) by Jane Kindred

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2013

Full-scale war has broken out in Heaven, and Anazakia must embrace her destiny, leading an army of Virtues into battle against a Host of enemies to restore the House of Arkhangel’sk. Furious with her for putting her trust in the angel who has done them all irreparable harm, Vasily tries to ignore his growing resentment, while Belphagor returns to the world of Man with a cadre of beautiful androgynous Virtues to restore the sundered alliance between the Fallen and the gypsy underground. Without their help in enlisting the terrestrial forces of Grigori and Nephilim, Anazakia’s Virtues are hopelessly outnumbered. But there are more things in Heaven and Earth than any of them have dreamt of, and those they cannot see will mean the difference between victory and losing everything.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN is the third installment in Jane Kindred’s The House of Arkhangel’sk series. I cannot stress how highly I recommend you read this particular series in order as the character and world building are intricately detailed throughout the books, layering jeweled information, bitter rivalries and political infighting between the demons, angels and arkangels of Heaven. There is betrayal between friends and family; the powerful and the elite; the slave and master. To which I will also add, no one is safe from the pain, sorrow and heartbreaking death of those they love and hate.

Much of the storyline is a reflection and interpretation of the Russian Revolution and of the Russian Imperial House of Romanov that is applied to the political infrastructure of Heaven’s Royal House of Arkhangel’sk. The storyline vacillates between our heroine Anazakia’s POV and third person as many of the novel’s characters and plotlines occur simultaneously and in various parts of Heaven and the world between Heaven and Earth. Jane Kindred blends the beauty and power of the angel in a world that is embattled in a fight for the right to rule Heaven.

Anazakia is a strong heroine but one who knows sorrow and heartbreaking loss first hand. With her daughter still missing and in the hands of the woman hoping to destroy Heaven and its rulers, Anazakia sets out to command an army of Virtues whose only sin is to be loyal to the rightful Queen. Although strong, Anazakia is also a mother, a sister and a daughter who has lost much more than many and those losses fuel the fires and the burning push to claim what is hers; but finding her daughter may put everyone in jeopardy as those loyal to Anazakia will meet evil and betrayal at every turn. They will risk their lives for the rightful heir and the woman to whom they have pledged their loyalty and their love.

Many of the characters from the previous storylines have integral roles in The Armies of Heaven and at times the betrayer became the betrayee when the ultimate goal was hidden behind a mask of evil and revenge. Trust is an issue that is not gained lightly and in many cases is the ultimate act of betrayal.

The battle for Heaven’s throne is awash in political intrigue and betrayal, torture and mutilation, love and hate. And the overall residing drive for Anazakia is her determination to find her daughter before she is irrevocably lost forever. But a few unexpected revelations will force Anazakia to look more closely at what happened the night her entire life was destroyed and in doing so, will see that not is all is at is seems.

THE ARMIES OF HEAVENS is a fascinating and detailed storyline. Jane Kindred’s world of The House of Arkhangel’sk is a modern and colorful fantasy storyline adaptation blending the contemporary with the past and, the result is an amazing series that should not be passed up. Every nuance and minute detail of the story serves a purpose. Nothing and no one is safe in The House of Arkhangel’sk.

The House of Arkhangel’sk series is not a study in theology but a story that uses the power of Heaven and the angels blending fantasy with the reality of the 20th and 21st century world.

Reading Order-Click on the link for our review
1. The Fallen Queen
2. The Midnight Court
3. The Armies of Heaven

Copy supplied by the publicist.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview beige

With the release of THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN, The Reading Cafe would like to welcome author JANE KINDRED.

Jane-Kindred-200x300TRC: Hi Jane and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN, your final installment in The House of Arkhangel’sk series.

Jane: Thanks, Sandy, and thanks for having me on the blog today.

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

Jane: As my bio says on my website, I grew up as a bookworm and a sci-fi/fantasy nerd in Tucson, Arizona and I currently live in San Francisco with my son, two cats, and an evil cockatiel. I’ve been writing for most of my life (and I’m still a bookworm and a sci-fi/fantasy nerd).

FOLLOW: Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Pinterest/ Tumblr

TRC: The House of Arkhangel’sk series centers in and around Russia and has a very detailed theologian premise. What was the deciding factor to use such a mixture of characters, supernatural beings and anchor it all with the reality of war-torn/snow bound Russia?

House of Arkhangel'sk

Jane: I wish I could tell you I had some grand plan, but it’s just what happened. The story of the murder of the Romanovs had always seemed so tragic to me, and I could understand people wanting to believe one of them had have survived. I thought I’d write a fictional version using a similar premise and let my “Anastasia” actually survive. I honestly don’t remember what drew me to a celestial setting, but once I saw the name of the city of Arkhangel’sk while doing some research, it all came together.

The Armies of Heaven June 2013TRC: THE ARMIES of HEAVEN is the final book in The House of Arkhangle’sk series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

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Jane: The Heavens are on the brink of war as demon revolutionaries and a separate faction of angels are in rebellion against Queen Aeval. Grand Duchess Anazakia is preparing to lead her army of angels against both the demons and the queen’s army to take back the throne. The leader of the demons has also stolen Anazakia’s child, so she and Vasily and Belphagor are anxious to defeat the demon leader and take Ola back.

TRC: We have heard there is a spin-off series featuring Anazakia. Would you please tell us something about the premise and how many books do you plan in the series?

Jane: I’m sorry to say that the sequel trilogy, which features Anazakia’s daughter Ola, has been shelved for now. I’m currently working on some m/m erotic romance featuring Belphagor and Vasily.

TRC: Vasily and Belphagor storyline would be a welcome addition. 😉

TRC: The series is dark and the characters are emotional, raw and edgy. How do you keep the plot unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability?

Jane: I don’t think predictable plots are terribly believable. Life is unpredictable and messy, and more often than not, pretty dark, so it seems natural to me to throw twists and turns at my characters along the way.

TRC: How thoroughly do you plan out your characters and story before you begin the first draft?

Jane: I don’t outline. I’ve tried it and it just doesn’t work for me. I have to have a general idea of who the main characters are, where the relationships will go, who the antagonist is, and how things will end, so I do a bit of stream of consciousness writing to work out what I think is going to happen. Usually, the story is completely different by the time it’s done.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the lead characters of The House of Arkhangel’sk series, which actors and models would be represent your ideal image?

Jane: Emma Watson would make a good Anazakia, and I see Belphagor as Robert Downey, Jr., only a bit younger. I think Jason Momoa is probably the only one who could play Vasily.

Jane Kindred ideal images

TRC: What challenges (research, historical, theological) did you face writing this particular series?

Jane: I did a lot of research on Russian history and culture, including traveling to Russia to try to learn the language. I wanted it to be as authentic as possible. Creating my own hierarchy of angels and the seven heavens was also a challenge, as was inventing the game of wingcasting, but all of that was also a lot of fun as well.

TRC: Do your storyline characters speak to you and tell you the direction of the story or do you direct the characters?

Jane: They pretty much have their way no matter what I do. I have a general direction for the story, but how they get there is anybody’s guess until it’s done. And Belphagor is the biggest pain in butt. 😉

TRC: How do you deal with the stress and anxiety of writing deadlines?

Jane: I gave myself deadlines before I was published, so that part isn’t really much different. I find promotion much more stressful. It doesn’t come naturally to me, and trying to fit it in with my writing while working a full-time day job leaves me little time or energy for anything else. I don’t really have time to deal with stress in a healthy way, but I try to do little things that make me happy, like taking time out for afternoon tea and watching my favorite TV shows after I meet my daily word count quota. (And The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson is a must, no matter how many words I’ve written.)

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about yourself?

Jane: I think some people are surprised when they find out I was raised as an Evangelical Christian, given that my books have naughty leather demon heroes. On the other hand, some people are surprised that despite my conservative upbringing, I’m actually a bisexual atheist with pagan leanings, and that my books aren’t in any way religious even though they’re about angels and demons.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Jane: I’d be happy with one thing: being able to write for a living without having to work another full-time job to pay the rent. I’d love to have a bestseller, but who wouldn’t? I try to keep my goals realistic: managing to write two or three books a year and get them published without having a complete breakdown seems reasonable.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Jane: The Belphagor/Vasily erotic romance project.

TRC: 😉

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Jane: I’d just like to repeat “Belphagor/Vasily erotic romance project.” 😉

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Chocolate cake.

Favorite Dessert
See above.

Favorite TV Show
Torchwood, but there aren’t any more of those, so Doctor Who (but only
with Matt Smith, and I’m going to have a tantrum and hold my breath when
the next Doctor shows up).

Last Move You Saw
Star Trek Into Darkness (I haven’t changed much over the years).

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Dark. Very, very dark.

Favorite Flower
Violet.

Last Vacation Destination
Disneyland.

TRC: Thank you Jane for taking the time to answer our questions.Congratulations on the release of THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN. We wish you all the best in your writing career.

Jane: Thanks so much for having me. 🙂

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