It's a Valentines Day Book Boyfriend Swap!

 Happy Valentines Day!!

Since it's the 'Most Romantic Day' of the year  also known as the 'Biggest, Cheesiest, Cash Grab' of the year.... (You choose which title you wanna to go with, personally I am PRO Valentines) I thought that it would be fun to be a bit silly and kick it up a notch by celebrating this fine day with our 'Book Boyfriends'
(Don't worry, it's not considered 'cheating' if he's make-believe...)

A book boyfriend can fall into whatever category you want:
A hero that you have a bit of a crush on.
A hero that you love to read about.
A hero that you wish was real.
A hero that you admire.

Some people (mainly our husbands, boyfriends etc...) can be annoyed by the term 'Book Boyfriend'.
Some people think us book nerds are a bit crazy getting so caught up in our books, let alone kinda crushing on a fictional character. (Non-readers are a crazy bunch, we don't need to listen to them!)
Others (like me) love cracking jokes about having one....(Innocent fun)
And than there are a small few that take it far to seriously (Yeah, I am talking to you people who actually fight over who-gets which imaginary dude....STOP THAT! It's almost as bad as teeny boppers fighting over which hunky celeb they'll end up marrying. The answer is none of them! Quit kissing your posters! #LifeLesson #ToughLove) 
I digress.....

Since it's Valentines Day, instead of telling you what romantic, sexy books I recommend, I am going to let YOU tell everyone who your book boyfriend is!

Let's trade info on our favorite fictional men!

I'll go first.

Honestly, I can't pick one. I guess you could say I am a bit 'naughty' when it comes to choosing book boyfriends, I have several! (The good news is I am monogamous in real life and that's all that matters)  Asking me to choose which handsome man of fiction I'm crazy about is like asking me what my favorite book is. Impossible....can't happen.Too many to choose from and too many good ones out there!
That said, I will point out some of my favourites in no particular order:

From Sexy Novels Based in Modern Times.......

1) Bennett Ryan from Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren. ~If you've read this book you will know why...Seriously....WHO wouldn't want this guy? Not only is he smart, successful, loaded, and comes from a great family...but he's fiesty, fiery and has freshly fucked hair. Not to mention butting heads with him works as a turn on. Welllll alrighty than! Sounds like a perfect match to me! I could read books with him ALL day. (and I have...) I'm hoping eventually the authors continue on with the series and Lord only knows I can't wait for the movie!

2) Will Sumner from Beautiful Player by Christina Lauren ~ Yup, another character from authors Christina Lauren.... they know how to write them...(I could have added Max Stella from their book Beautiful Stranger to my list, but the whole photog-fetish thing isn't really my thing......) Though I hate running, I love how into fitness and health Will is and the whole former player, sexy smart guy thing.....Yum! He's also deep down a genuine good guy and his sense of humor cracks me up! His relationship with Hannah is adorable. Hmmmm, and as I write this...I realize I have yet to finish that particular blog review for you all......it's coming and this is a preview of how good the book is. :)

And because a lady sometimes wants a lil Historical Romance......and a Title.....

3) Sidheah James Lyon Douglas (aka Hawk) from Beyond the Highland Mist (Karen Marie Moning)
It's actually been awhile since I have read this book, but he always stands out to me when I think of a sexy main character..... and even the Faery Queen agrees....(Yes I said 'Faery Queen' ....I'm not drunk when I write this) You're just gonna have to read the book to find out why....but taking on the mischievous, magical and sexy Adam Black....Hawt. If I was the leading lady in this novel, choosing to stay back in time with him is a no brainer.

4) Clayton Westmoreland from Whitney My Love by Judith McNaught.
 A Duke. A handsome English Duke who will do whatever it takes to get the girl he wants, even if she doesn't know him yet......SOLD! I could totally be a Duchess in the 1800's..... (Think they'll let me bring my hair dryer?) He has his ups and downs....a bit old fashioned (well, to us Modern Era Gal's anyway) but he is gallant, a bit romantic and what girl doesn't like to be chased?

So there you have four of my choices....so far......

Let's see who everyone else chose!

Megan: "Book boyfriend... Hmm.. well I'm going to have to go with Ethan from Hit List by Anita Blake. First because the fact he carries four strains of tiger shifter in him gives him incredibly cool hair and also because he's super sweet and a little broken. I have a thing for the sweet, broken tough guys. He's badass and has a body that makes even Anita sweat.. so I'd love to cuddle up with him and see if my inner tigeress could find a nice playmate. I just love Anita's books for their suspense, the characters and of course the steamy love scenes and relationships help as well."

 Shilo: "My book bf is from The Infernal Devices series (By Cassandra Clare). I want what Tess had, the best of both worlds... Will Herondale AND James Carstairs. What can I say? Together, they're perfect."
(She also goes on to tell me)
"These guys are Parabatai. Which means they are battle soul mates. They live for each other. There is even a ceremony to connect them. They both fall for Tess and she falls for both of them. It's quite the little love triangle. I loved the whole Shadowhunter series."
(I am intrigued!)

Erin: "I think I would have to go with Edward Cullen....(Twilight)... has too many temper tantrums to have a long term thing with and Gideon is way too controlling (although I would submit to both of them!! LOL) But boyfriend/husband material?? Edward always treated her as an equal and protected her with everything he had as did his family, especially once she turned! There was complete trust and respect between them. The road to trust with the other two would be a LONG one!"
 
Brenna: "Rhett Butler....Gone With The Wind" (Margaret Mitchell)

Miranda: "James Fraser from the Outlander series" (Diana Gabaldon)

Erin: "Currently Clayton Danvers from Bitten" (by Kelley Armstrong)

Sarah: "Edward Rochester from Jane Eyre" (Charlotte Bronte)

And I am going to end with the following choice(s) because like me.....this lady can't just choose one!!

Amanda: "Peeta Mallark (Hunger Games) Gideon Cross (Crossfire Series ~Sylvia Day) Christian Grey (50 Shades ~ E.L. James)"

So there you have it folks...... why not take some time this Valentines Day to snuggle up and read with your 'Book Boyfriend' or become acquainted with a new one from our list.

Now, I have a vacation to plan for. My hubby surprised me today with tickets for a romantic vacation to Cuba! Wonder which of your book boyfriends I'm gonna take with me...... ;)

A big shout out and THANK YOU to everyone who shared!! Want to be more interactive? LIKE my page on Facebook and join in!
 

Happy Reading!

Goddess of Vengeance ~ Jackie Collins

You know, sometimes I wonder what my life would be like if I was famous actress. (And I should be.....)
Would I still be the same person? (Ha, I'd like so say yes...just a richer, more expensively dressed version of who I am now......)
Would I have vices and fall into that Hollywood Party Trap? (If my youth is any indication, than that's a no brainer...)
What kind of house (mansion) would I live in? What car would I drive? (I already drive my dream car every summer!...Mustang Convertible...HOLLA!)
Would I get into cat fights and rivalries with fellow celebrities? (I'm looking at YOU Taylor Swift...)
How would my Hollywood husband Channing Tatum feel about me kissing other men on screen? (WHAT!? A girl can dream.....)

Yeah.
Sometimes my mind wanders...that's how it works. I like to daydream, imagine and play the What-If game...
 It's part of my charm....  but the reality is: I have what I have and I wouldn't change it for a million bucks. 
(Though wouldn't it be nice to have this life PLUS a million bucks.... ;) Shhhh, none of that grass is greener crap...let me dream)

The reason I am babbling about the Hollywood life is because I just picked up and read a book by one of the reigning queens of juicy celeb/society inspired novels......The One...The Only...Best Selling Author Jackie Collins!
*cue applause*

At first when I picked up the novel 'Goddess of Vengeance', I was under the impression that I had never read one of her novels before. Truth be told, after reading it I'm still confused because somewhere, somehow, I am actually aware of the character 'Lucky Santangelo' and familiar with some of the story......days after reading this novel, the feeling of deja vu is nagging at me.....(Perhaps I should lay off the blonde dye jobs?)

Book Description via Amazon.com: 
Lucky runs a high profile casino and hotel complex, The Keys in Vegas.
Lennie, her movie star husband, is still writing and directing successful independent movies, while Max, her stubborn and gorgeous teenage daughter is about to celebrate her 18th birthday, and her son, Bobby, owns a string of hot clubs. Lucky has everything. Family. Love. Life.
And everything is exactly what billionaire businessman Armand Jordan is determined to take from her one way or the other.
Born a Prince in the small but affluent Middle Eastern country of Akramshar, Armand comes to America with his American mother at an early age, and rises to become a real estate business titan. Armand regards women as nothing more than breeding mares or sexual playthings, so when his people inform him that the one property he covets more than anything, The Keys, is not for sale, he is shocked. That a mere woman would dare to turn down his offer to buy The Keys is unthinkable, and Armand vows to force Lucky’s hand whatever it takes. And so the battle for power begins . . .
Meanwhile Bobby is dealing with shady Russian investors, while his girlfriend—smart and independent Denver Jones—is becoming a Deputy D.A. in the L.A. drug unit.
And Max, Bobby’s seventeen year old sister, is busy embarking on a forbidden affair with a sexy young movie star. An affair they have to keep on the down-low lest Lucky finds out.
The word is that “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” and what happens in Goddess of Vengeance will blow your mind! 

My Take:

Let me introduce you to the three characters that really stood out to me~

Lucky Santangelo
I don't even know how to begin to describe this character. To say that she is 'strong' is an understatement. This chick has Balls. Big ones. (Metaphorical ones)
She has such an amazingly dramatic background, how Lucky is still standing on top of the world and not curled up rocking back and forth in a corner popping Valium is beyond me. She is beautiful, intelligent and will kick your ass into the next century if you mess with her. She's a wife, mother, daughter of a 'well known' mob-like Father. She's career driven, wildly successful and always in survival mode. It doesn't seem there is anyone or anything she is afraid of....I can't wait to read the other novels and learn more about her and her past that is mentioned in this novel.

Max is Lucky's 17 year old daughter on the cusp of her 18th birthday. She is a chip off the ol' block and trying to fly away, but doesn't know how to avoid having her wings clipped by her mom. Lucky isn't quite convinced Max is ready for the world yet and worries about her heading to New York. This girl has big shoes to fill living in the shadows of both her parents, but she is determined....To add to the drama, Max ends up falling head over heels in love with someone a bit older who has a a history with Mama Bears best friend.......This may not go over so well with the parental units.
Max is smart, fiesty and sweet. She was one of my favorite characters.

Armand Jordan...or should I say 'Prince-Who-Needs-Kicked in The Nads- Hard-By Someone Wearing Steel Toed Boots...'
This character is without a doubt one of the most sadistic and disgusting I have read about in a long time. To call him old fashioned and misogynistic would be an insult to both old fashioned AND misogynists minded men everywhere. His temper and ego knows no bounds....(somebody has a God complex....)....to the point he thinks he can actually buy anyone or anything he desires. Fueled by alcohol, crack and rage... When he finally meets Lucky, claws come out....and it is beautiful! #TeamLucky
That was probably my favorite part of the book.

Goddess of Vengeance, while this isn't the first book installment, in my opinion it doesn't seem to me that you necessarily have to read the whole series in order to appreciate what is going on in this novel. (Perhaps those who are more familiar with her series can clarify this for me?)
We get plenty of back story, not to mention several blossoming story lines, so if you wanted to get a taste of her books and writing style, reading it as a 'stand alone' book doesn't seem like a big deal to me. Of course, I'm sure that does somewhat spoil some of the other novels should you (like me) want to track backwards and now read them all in order...Perhaps I will change my mind about that when I do get around to reading all her books, but for now I stick with that opinion. (The rest of her series has now been added to my massively large TBR pile, so if anyone wants to send me a million bucks to afford all these novels, that'd be swell.....)

I was quite enthralled with the novel. I loved the multiple character and plot lines.....each of them as entertaining as the next. Reading the 'behind the scenes' L.A. attitude and salacious behavior of the Rich and Famous set is almost as good as reading an article on TMZ..... I won't lie....At times I wondered if characters purposely had the 'qualities' of certain celebs.....or if some of the shenanigans were 'loosely based on gossip'.... (What? I'm curious.......)
It's a long read. Took me most of a day. (My superpower is speed-reading)
I would classify it as a book to read when you do not know what you are in the mood for!


 There is so much I could tell you about this book, the series etc... but this blog will turn into a novel itself, so if you want anymore information on Goddess of Vengeance, click here on the link for the author's website where there is tons of info! There is even a free chapter you can download!
I have been on her website trying to figure out where to start and what to read next and a few books have caught my attention...(Keep in mind these are not necessarily in a series, or in order...but just as they have caught my eye)
The Bitch
Confessions of a Wild Child 
Poor Little Bitch Girl
Drop Dead Beautiful
Hollywood Divorcee

And that is just to name a small few.....I'd better wrap this blog up, quit writing and get to reading.....

SOOOOOOOOO to sum it up.....

I most certainly recommend this book if you are looking for something classy, trashy and a little bit sassy!

Happy Reading!

Before I Go To Sleep ~ S.J. Watson

Can you imagine waking up one day and not knowing a thing about the day before?
(Ha, okay, well perhaps we have been there- done that after a night of binge drinking in our idiot youth....but that's not what I mean....)

Imagine waking up next to a person you don't know or recognize (One night stands don't count....) 
Imagine looking in the mirror assuming you are a youthful 20 year old, but the shocking reality is you are much older than what you remember.....(Okay, I'm guilty I do that every morning)
Imagine having to your life told to you over and over again on a daily basis, by a stranger who you learn is your husband.
Imagine learning that when you go to bed at night, your memory will be wiped clean and when you wake it will all start over again.

It reminds me of that Adam Sandler -Drew Barrymore comedy.....(50 First Dates).....but this novel is far from comedic.
It's tragic and frightening.

Released in 2011 "Before I Go To Sleep" by S.J Watson is an absolute MUST READ for people who like a dramatic thriller..... or anyone looking for an amazing novel to lose themselves in!!

Book Description:



Christine wakes up every morning in an unfamiliar bed with an unfamiliar man.
She looks in the mirror and sees an unfamiliar, middle-aged face. And every morning, the man she has woken up with must explain that he is Ben, he is her husband, she is forty-seven years old, and a terrible accident two decades earlier decimated her ability to form new memories.
But it’s the phone call from a Dr. Nash, a neurologist who claims to be working with Christine without her husband’s knowledge, that directs her to her journal, hidden in the back of her closet. For the past few weeks, Christine has been recording her daily activities -- tearful mornings with Ben, sessions with Dr. Nash, flashes of scenes from her former life -- and rereading past entries, relearning the facts of her life as retold by the husband she is completely dependent upon. As the entries build up, Christine asks many questions. What was life like before the accident? Why did she and Ben never have a child? What has happened to Christine’s best friend? And what exactly was the horrific accident that caused such a profound loss of memory?
Every day, Christine must begin again the reconstruction of her past. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more unbelievable it seems.

My Summery and Take:

There is a surefire reason this book is getting buzz and has a major motion picture coming out! This novel is beyond intense.
The plot had me completely hooked. Christine wakes up every day feeling young only to discover that is far from the case. She is shocked to discover she is much older than she remembers....and that strange man in her bed is her husband. It's his job on a daily basis has to fill her in and reintroduce her to what has become of her life.
She learns she is keeping a journal and with the help of a Dr. Nash.....a psychologist who contacted her in hopes of studying her usual case.The thing is, it's to be kept a secret from her husband (who has given up on her ever remembering). She and the doctor secretly work together as she struggles to remember and regain her memory. His methods seem to work as the more she documents, the more triggers she's shown.... the more flashbacks she has. As we read her entries, we discover bits and pieces and learn things that don't quite add up. The question is, why has nothing worked until now?
 As the novel progresses, you really start wondering if you can trust anyone....including her journal entries. Can she even trust herself?? Is she documenting everything in her journal correctly? What kind of person was she before she lost her memory? What will happen if her husband was to discover the journal? Where are her friends and family from before the accident? What is real and what is her imagination???
This book gave me chills. I always like to put myself into the characters shoes and really digest a novel like this but not even I can even fathom what this character goes through. The paranoia, the distrust.....your life having been stolen from you and you can't recall anything or anyone. This is a novel that will haunt your thoughts long after you have read it. It's a truly frightening thought to know that people suffer from amnesia on a daily basis and my heart goes out to those who suffer from this condition.
It's been days since I completed the novel and I still can't shake the story. That's the mark of a great read!
A wonderfully written novel, it captures the desperation and struggle of Christine's character beautifully. I do believe I may have suffered from some anxiety reading it which would explain why I didn't want to put it down. I needed to know how it ended so I could relax! I highly recommend this one!

On a side note...It's very rare my husband shows any interest in books, let alone in one I am reading. I don't know if it was the cover of the novel or if I was making sounds while reading it.....but my husband started asking questions about what it was about. I summed it up for him, this turned into a discussion on related movies-books-situations (Odd....) and I was quite happy when he said "If that was a movie, I would see it!" (...because Heaven-forbid he actually picks a book up....)
One Google search later and it looks like we have a date!!! Before I Go To Sleep is releasing in theaters later on this year....starring Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth and Mark Strong.
(Now, if only I could read a few passages to him from Fifty Shades of Grey....maybe... just maybe I can convince him to see that one with me as well? ;)  )

Ladies, Gentleman.... Add "Before I Go To Sleep" to your reading lists and be sure to see this one once it hits theaters!! Make a night of it! ;)


Happy Reading!

Omens ~ Kelley Armstrong

I do not know where to start with this blog!!!
Why is that you ask?
Well, it just so happens that I am writing about an author who's work I am a HUGE fan of!
(The proof is on my bookshelf, never mind my e-reader)

Kelley Armstrong ranks extremely high as one of my favorite authors!
That statement led me to wonder how I could actually choose 'who' could win the title of my 'All Time Favorite Author'. After giving it much thought.....and ditching the idea of them fighting to the death (we don't want that) I'm convinced there is only one way I could be forced to name a winner:
Picture it, I hold a meeting with them where I give them all a challenge....Throw out character names (Lead character will obviously a charming blonde named Irene....) a plot outline, tell them to than pick their own genre and than GO!! Whoever writes the best novel wins my top spot.....(Reasonable request...no?)

Not only is Kelley Armstrong a Canadian (Eh!) but she writes one of the most incredible paranormal series of all time.....Women of the Otherworld. (If you have not read or heard of this series, please remove yourself from thy rock, oh sheltered one.....)
It is no secret to anyone who knows me well, that I am completely in awe of that series. I LOVE IT.
I love it so much that I don't like lending her books to people. I would rather spend the money to buy you a copy to keep, than lose one of mine. I love the writing style, the characters, the plot lines, the Canadian content, the twists, turns.... the way she turns monsters like vampires and werewolves into believable, every day creatures.
This is an author to read and recommend and I am not the only one who thinks so! It's safe to say that in my social circles author Kelley Armstrong is a popular choice!


I was lucky enough that she came into my neighborhood for a book signing a couple of years ago, and I did attend! I'm not gonna lie....I totally geeked out. I mean, I stammered, smiled, could barely talk to her because to me, meeting my favorite author is a total rock star moment. I actually forgot to ask if I could get a proper picture with her. (Dumbass that I am) It was awfully embarrassing and completely out of character for me. (Ask my friends or family how often I am ever speechless or shy.....)
HOWEVER, having her sign a book for me was amaze-balls. (Can people over 30 use the term amaze-balls??)


 Anyway....now that I have totally geeked out again via my blog, I shall continue......

Omens has been on my reading list since I first heard whispers about it. Since I have been trying to read a lot of books on my TBR list, I decided to hold off on this novel. Holy Moley this book did not disappoint, and if you want the truth I'm a bit upset with myself that I waited so long to get a copy.



The synopsis from Amazon.com:


Twenty-four-year-old Olivia Taylor Jones has the perfect life. The only daughter of a wealthy, prominent Chicago family, she has an Ivy League education, pursues volunteerism and philanthropy, and is engaged to a handsome young tech firm CEO with political ambitions.
But Olivia’s world is shattered when she learns that she’s adopted. Her real parents? Todd and Pamela Larsen, notorious serial killers serving a life sentence. When the news brings a maelstrom of unwanted publicity to her adopted family and fiancé, Olivia decides to find out the truth about the Larsens.
Olivia ends up in the small town of Cainsville, Illinois, an old and cloistered community that takes a particular interest in both Olivia and her efforts to uncover her birth parents’ past.
Aided by her mother’s former lawyer, Gabriel Walsh, Olivia focuses on the Larsens’ last crime, the one her birth mother swears will prove their innocence. But as she and Gabriel start investigating the case, Olivia finds herself drawing on abilities that have remained hidden since her childhood, gifts that make her both a valuable addition to Cainsville and deeply vulnerable to unknown enemies. Because there are darker secrets behind her new home, and powers lurking in the shadows that have their own plans for her.



My Take:

You could not pry this book (or my e-reader) out of my hands if you tried.

I love how the novel began. It has a heart pounding-creepy-tricky vibe to it that really helps set the story up....I thought it was a cleverly executed way to set the mood!
It's hard to really describe Olivia's character before she discovers her true identity as Eden Larsen. We really don't get to know too much about her 'before' she discovers the truth of her parentage, but we know she is intelligent, beautiful women and has the world laid out at her feet. She has a plan! Marriage, career, maybe kids one day....As the story continues you can see how losing her identity actually helps her grow as an individual. We discover that she is brave, willful and even stronger than anticipated. I have to say, I was a bit surprised at times when Olivia would have a thought or made a decision that seemed 'outside the box' for her personality. An example would be how she comes to treat both of her mothers, especially the one that raised her. (Those who have read the story will know what I am talking about) That plot line alone makes me wonder, Does Olivia's sixth sense have something to do with her behavior toward her adoptive mother~ making it 'more' than just the typical shock and anger one might have? Is there more to that particular storyline that meets the eye?? (undoubtedly, there is......)

The whole novel leaves you wanting more and questioning everything!

All that said, you don't need to read too far into the novel before you see how Olivia's life comes crashing down on her and it is like a run away roller-coaster ride. There are omens everywhere throughout the book and the more they show up, the more she realizes there is more to this than just weird rhymes popping into her head out the blue. She ends up in Cainsville, a mysterious town that even by the end of the first novel leaves you guessing and coming up with theories. There are so many eerie and strange layers to that creepy, sleepy town.... the people, the gargoyles, the ravens, even the cat.....Cainsville is a big ol' bag of worms that I am dying to know more about, never mind the actual mystery about the serial killings and who is really behind them.

One character to watch is Gabriel Walsh.....He's a smarmy lawyer who represented her birth mother once upon a trial, and at first I just did not know what to make of this guy. Even though he is rather unlikable, he really grows on you as the novel develops, but even toward the end of book one, he's remains a very strange mystery.....I look forward to seeing how his character is to develop along the way and I am hoping a romance develops between the two.....

This novel combines styles we have seen from Kelley Armstrong in the past. The incredible imagination and paranormal-fantasy of the Otherworld series mixed with the more mainstream, mystery-thriller seen in her Nadia Stafford series....She writes with a great wit and captures the sense of foreboding in a way that makes me want to draw comparisons to the likes of Stephen King, Anne Rice,VC Andrews.....
When describing her novels when recommending them to my friends, I typically give the same speech "She takes the unbelievable and makes it believable...You're going to want more of it!"
You can tell the author puts a lot of thought into how she creates her characters and plots. No stone is left unturned and we are left with incredible tales. Kelley Armstrong novels are ones you can read over and over again!
She gets more than 5 Stars from me!

A fun fact about Omens: At the start of the novel there is an authors note regarding little 'Easter Eggs' she has dropped throughout the novel. If you are wanting to get ahead of yourself with the mystery than you can follow these Easter Eggs and do your own search ahead of Olivia and the story.
I personally decided to pass at this game, I want to go a long for the ride as the novels unfold....but for any of you who like a good mystery.....well there is your bonus incentive on why you should add this book to your reading list! 

As you can imagine, I am on pins and needles waiting for the next installment in the Cainsville Series to release. Look for Visions (Book #2) to release in August 2014. I am so excited about the next novel that I actually created a reminder on my phone. 

**Bonus News** Tonight on Space in Canada (Or on January 13th on Syfy in the US) is the release of "Bitten" (Women of the Otherworld!) and we get to watch Elena and Clay in action!!! I can not wait!! Check your local listings!!!!

Visit the authors website for more information: http://www.kelleyarmstrong.com/

To sum up this review:

If you love Kelley Armstrong novels. Read Omens.
If you have never read her novels. Read Omens.
If you need a great thriller. Read Omens.
If you need a great paranormal. Read Omens.
If you don't like the way your hair looks today. Read Omens.
If your husband or wife asks you to complete a chore today. Read Omens.

Get it? Got it? GOOD!!

Happy Reading!!

Private Paradise ~ Jami Alden

Baby it's coooooold outside.

Don't get me wrong....I enjoy winter...I love the snow... Never mind hibernating...there is so much to do....snowshoe through the woods, go tobogganing, build snow sculptures (Mere snowmen are not enough!)....Hey, I even have fun shoveling!

Look! Proof I'm an Angel! Or Crazy. You decide.

 Alas not everyone does appreciate the cold, wintery weather like I do...That said, I certainly know when to throw in the towel when the temps outside reach -40 below! (GO AWAY Polar Vortex!!!!)
All that said, while I like winter, if you have followed my blog for awhile you know that I love to jet off to the Caribbean sun for a week to relax. Unfortunately sometimes (like this year) that isn't an option.
(@#$%^&!!) 

I am here in spirit!!

Whether you are escaping this frigid cold weather by vacationing to an island (TAKE ME WITH YOU!!!) or taking a time out in a hot bubble bath (DO NOT TAKE ME WITH YOU!!!)...... I recommend grabbing a copy of this sexy book to keep you company and help warm you up!

 
Book Description from Amazon.com:

 After years of catering to the whims of the rich and famous at one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, there isn't much that can rattle Carla DeLuca.
Until Sam O’Connell shows up.
Tall, dark, and sexy, Holley Cay's new security chief is no stranger. He's the irresistible bad boy who seduced her over a long, hot summer only to leave her heartbroken, humiliated, and determined to never again fall for a player like him. But though her heart still stings with the memory of his rejection, her body can't forget the all-consuming pleasure of his touch.

Sam never forgave himself for his too cruel rejection of Carla over a decade before. Young, reckless, and convinced it was only a matter of time Carla regretted hooking up with a trouble maker like him, Sam pushed Carla away before she could realize her mistake. But when Sam lands a job working for Carla in paradise, he seizes the chance to finally make things right.

When a hurricane strands them alone on the island, Carla is unable to resist the passion simmering between them. She doesn't fool herself that what they have will last past the storm. But little does she know, Sam will do whatever it takes to make her his – forever this time.

My Take:

I liked it! So much so that my standard complaints apply to this review. It wasn't long enough for me, could have used more detail, why did it have to end so soon?? I enjoyed the characters chemistry, however the novel at times felt rushed to me (Gah, I hate when that happens!) I found myself wanting 'more'....more story, a few more twists, turns, more details etc...just to keep these characters and novel going a bit longer.... That is not a negative thing at all. It just means I like "MOOOORE" (I totally just sang that word like the Madonna song on the Dick Tracy sound track...Google it...)

I think it is safe to say that my favorite type of love story involves two characters with a past connection.....I also give extra bonus points for the scenarios that involve some level of animosity... (I maintain there is something extra sexy about those scenarios....the fiery and passionate the better..just sayin'!)
Sam and Carla have this amazing chemistry and it's pretty obvious that after all the years, they are still hot for each other. This novel follows both their points of view, so we are treated to the good ol' His and Her version of what went down all that time ago. The full story eventually reveals itself through flashbacks. (....and I wanted to slap him for her)

I have already read this book twice and will do so again. I've added author Jami Alden to my 'authors to read' list. I really enjoyed her writing style and the sense of humor. It made for a fun, sexy read.

A link to Jami Alden's website for those curious about her work!  http://www.jamialden.com/

Contemporary Romance Lovers....or anyone interested in giving this novel a read. You are in luck! If you have a Kobo run to the site and grab yourself a copy while it's still being promoted for free.....and while you are there, pick up the rest of her novels too!
If you have a Kindle..don't feel left out.....Amazon.ca currently has it for free as well!

Dr. Reenie's Cure for the Cold Weather Blues:
A romantic-sexy book with a tropical setting.
Hot Coconut Scented Bubble Bath.
Glass of Wine...or if you really need to get away in your head, mix up a Mimosa or make a Pina Colada!

Keep Warm, Stay Safe
Happy Reading!!

Marie Antoinette: Serial Killer ~ Katie Alender

You can bet your sweet ass if I see a book that jumps out as much as this cover.....I'm gonna buy it.

I was at my daughters school the other day for Parent Teacher Interviews, after glowing reports on how great of a student, peer tutor and overall kid my daughter is.... I only think it is fair to reward such wonderful behavior and hard work with a book.....or three.......so we headed to the Book Fair.

At the 'Young Adult' Table, this book literally screamed "Read Me, Read Me!!" I won't deny, it was the cover that caught me first, than the book description:

"Heads will roll!
Paris, France: a city of fashion, chocolate croissants, and cute boys. Colette Iselin is thrilled be there for the first time, on her spring break class trip.
But a series of gruesome murders are taking place around the city, putting everyone on edge. And as she tours the sights, Colette keeps seeing a strange vision: a pale woman in a ball gown and powdered wig, who looks like Marie Antoinette.
Colette knows her status-obsessed friends won't believe her, so she seeks out the help of a charming French boy. Together, they discover that the murder victims are all descendants of people who ultimately brought about Marie Antoinette's beheading. And Colette may just be one of those descendants . . ."
(Book description via Amazon.ca)

I had to have it! It sounded like a story not only I would enjoy, but even my daughter who also loves a good ghost story. (A chip off the ol' block!)
 
My Take:

"Marie Antoinette: Serial Killer" by Katie Alender
I love the shock value that was put into drawing attention to the novel! (I'm trying to remember the last time a book cover made me look twice....)
To those who aren't familiar with history and can't get over the 'serial killer' in the title..a little lesson....She was not a serial killer (lavish spender, bad ruler, allegedly tells people to eat cake ....perhaps.....) so get past that, read the actual book description and see why the book is called that before you judge it.
(mmmm, did someone say cake???)

Besides a great little fictional spook story with some history, a little French culture..... the book has an in your face story about Friendship....and it sends a great message to the audience about the choices we make.
You learn from Colette's experience. It teaches a valuable lesson about why the popular or the mean girls are not necessarily worthy of the 'IT' crowd title...Why you should treat everyone with respect...Why you should never be ashamed of your circumstance or where you come from.... Why you should never be a sheep and follow blindly along with the crowd and their asinine 'rules'...(You get the drift!)

That is ALWAYS an important message to send.

So, did I enjoy the story?

Yes, for a young adult, fast read I actually liked it. It was amusing, a bit suspenseful at times...the end had a light twist. I wont say that is was entirely predictable, the twist wasn't what I expected......so that's good. I always enjoy it when an author puts her own spin on history. 
For adults, it does feel 'young' (duh) but if you have children who would read it, than I don't see why you wouldn't pick it up and give it a go if you like a spooky story. I'll read it again.

When my daughter arrived home from her sleep over this morning, I told her that I had finished the book and cleared it as appropriate reading for her. She is now a few chapters in and tells me 'Wow mom, this book is pretty good so far!'

Given the underlying theme of the book, I plan on using it as a tool to discuss with her social situations, bullies, status etc....once she has completed the novel. (Yes, I am THAT mom!)
I always look for extra ways to teach, encourage and discuss things with my kids!

And the fact that she gets a tiny history lesson and an imaginative ghost story.....well let's just call that an added bonus!

Happy Reading!

Beautiful Bombshell ~ Christina Lauren

I know what you are thinking...... "Beautiful Bombshell"..... Christina and Lauren wrote a book inspired by me.
No.... no they did not!
If they did it  however, it would most likely be titled "Delusional Egomaniac" but that is neither here nor there..... ;)

Beautiful Bombshell is the second novella by Christina Lauren in the Beautiful Bastard series. Sexy and amusing, it tells the tale of how Bennett and Max can't seem to keep their thoughts off their ladies, so you can imagine what happens when Chloe and Sara end up crashing the Bachelor Party Weekend! 
Leaving Henry baffled, and Will more than a little irritated, Bennett and Max are constantly finding excuses to sneak away for some fantastical fuckery. The lengths these guys will go through to be with their women is hysterical.
(What happens in Vegas.....is nothing compared to what these naughty boys are up to.....)

I can't seem to get enough of the novels in this series. The sarcastic and fun nature of the characters..... The imagination and creativity that goes into the storyline (hehehe...oh the sexcapades.....) makes these novels stand out from the pack. Naturally, the minute any of them release they end up in my possession and find and I always seem to find any excuse to immediately read it.
(**cough** **cough** Yeah.... I can't work today.... I've got a case of the Bennett Ryans.......)
It took me less than an hour to devour Beautiful Bombshell and my biggest (and only) complaint was the abrupt ending. It took me by surprise how quickly it ended. One more chapter would have been lovely.......!
These novella's are like literary crack.... just enough to satisfy you until the next full length novel is released and always leaving you wanting more!

At the end of the novella, I was excited to find an excerpt from Beautiful Player, which is Will's lusty love story. I am waiting on pins and needles for that release! Given the snarky nature of Bennett and Chloe's relationship and the voyeuristic tendencies of Sara and Max....one gleefully looks forward to seeing what Will is going to get up too!

If you haven't read anything by Christina Lauren yet, than for the love of all that is sexy and sinful would you get on it already!!!!

Here are the links to my previous blog reviews on books by Christina Lauren:

Beautiful Bastard

Beautiful Stranger

Beautiful Bitch

Now go be a good lil minx and buy yourself a copy of Beautiful Bombshell!
You deserve it!

Happy Reading.

Visit Christina Lauren's Website for more information!

The Official Book Description:

In this new novella, the gentlemen from Beautiful Bastard, Beautiful Stranger, and Beautiful Player are out for a wild night on The Strip.
When Max, Henry, and Will steal Bennett away for a weekend of shenanigans and strippers in Vegas, the first stop of the night doesn’t go at all as planned. With their scheme for a Guys Weekend completely derailed anyway, Max and Bennett begin to play a wild game of stealth and secrecy in order to have their bombshells all over Sin City.