Long before I discovered epubs, I was reading Black Lace novels. Now celebrating their 15th anniversary, this U.K. publisher is known for its intelligent erotic stories for women such as the brilliant Black Lace classics Menage by Emma Holly (now a Virgin Cheek title), Continuum by Portia Da Costa, and one of my favorite books of all time, A Gentleman’s Wager by Madelynne Ellis.

With the recent re-release of A Gentleman’s Wager (read my review) and the upcoming U.S. release of its much anticipated sequel, Phantasmagoria on April 29 (reviewed here), I asked Madelynne to stop by and answer a few questions. And even though I’m pretty sure she thinks I’m a slightly obsessed fangirl, she actually agreed!

Welcome to the Pond, Madelynne!

	Every author gets asked this question or some variation of it. So, here at TGTBTU, we’ve made it easy for authors to answer by providing you with a multiple choice listing of the three most popular answers to “Where do your ideas come from?”… A. The Muse – you know, the creative force that inspires you to write… or Sharon Stone. B. The Voices in Your Head – or as we refer to them here at TGTBTU, ‘The Sybil.’ C. The Profession – it’s a job, sit your ass in the chair and type, and try not to make authors look flaky(ier) than we are, damn it.
	B. Yeah, definitely The Sybil.
	Do you listen to music when you write? What’s typically playing? Are there old favorites you fall back on when the writing is giving you fits?
	I don’t so much listen to music while I’m writing as take musical interludes. This is where I crank up the volume and stomp up and down, using the music to conjure specific moods. When it comes to the actual writing, I often find that the music is too distracting. For a while I combated this problem by listening to lots of Gackt. He’s Japanese so I didn’t have the problem of me singing along causing me to lose focus. Now, I sing along in bad Japanese.As for what I listen to… It varies wildly, for example the current section in my CD player: Gackt (Jpop), Cradle of Filth (goth/metal), Donovan (trippy 70′s folk), Juan Martin (Flamenco guitar), & Suede (Britpop).
	What is guaranteed to distract you from sitting down and working?
	Children.
	A Gentleman’s Wager was first published in the UK in May 2003 but you started writing it in 1994 and didn’t finish until 2001. Let’s go back in time. You have a degree in Biology and Chemistry. Subsequently, you begin research in Parasitology and Malaria, then a friend sees you reading a Black Lace book and urges you to “give it a go”. Why did your friend think that your logical, scientific mind could write an erotic fiction story (and do such a phenomenal job of it)? Has your creative side always found an outlet through writing? Was AGW the very first thing you submitted? Honestly, it just fascinates me that both types of thought processes could be so strong in one person.
	Erm, a) because said friend is a perv… and b) because he’s been on the receiving end of my role-playing scenarios.My creative side has many outlets. I enjoy costume making and theatrical make-up and painting (badly). Although I’ve always created elaborate imaginary worlds, prior to A Gentleman’s Wager, I’d never made any serious attempts to write them down. AGW was the first novel I submitted. I think I’d subbed one short story prior to that point which went missing somewhere in e-space. [Ed.(Bev): at right is the original cover for AGW]
	Now, here we are a few years later and AGW’s long awaited sequel, Phantasmagoria, is being released AND it’s been chosen to kick off the Virgin Black Lace 15th Anniversary Celebration! [Huge Congrats!] Was this a story that had been simmering on the back burner for awhile? What finally started the story flowing onto paper?
	I can categorically say there was no simmering involved. At the close of AGW, I genuinely had no intention of ever writing a sequel, despite numerous requests from people to do so, and loving those characters. As far as I was concerned the story was done.As for what changed that… a chance visit to Vaughan’s home.While researching a location for a short story that I never finished, we happened to drive through the village of Pennerley, from which Vaughan’s title is derived. We then went on to Stokesay Castle. To say I fell in love with the place would be an understatement. I was struck by the realization as we approached, that this was Vaughan’s home. In each room, I could see him laughing, prowling and brooding. It was still several weeks before a story emerged though. I actually went in search of a dictionary, and instead sat down and wrote the outline for Phantasmagoria. It literally came out of nowhere, and left me feeling both shocked and excited. Believe me, novels out of nowhere is not the norm for me. I’m used to the blood, sweat and tears approach to outlining.
	Writers often say their stories take them in surprising directions, or dialogue flows from some unknown place. Is it the same with you? Do your characters surprise you sometimes? Do you ever argue with your characters while you’re writing? Honestly, as long as you don’t ask “What did you say?” I think you’re still on this side of sane.
	I don’t generally argue with my characters, I may growl at them occasionally when they insist on rewriting the lovely plot twist I’ve thought up. I work from fairly skeletal outlines, and focus heavily on characterization and character interactions, so I’m rarely surprised by what my characters do or say, but conversations do run away from me sometimes, and suddenly veer off at tangents.I’d say the main problem I have with my characters is that I frequently get very clear images of events unfolding, but I don’t understand how they connect, and then I spend ages trying to figure it all out. For example, in Phantasmagoria, I had a clear image of Vaughan carrying Bella through the castle asleep in his arms, but I couldn’t for the life of me work out why it was necessary for him to carry her anywhere. Why hadn’t he just left her in her bed and had his wicked way? Eventually, everything fell into place and it made perfect sense, but not before it had given me two-month headache.
	You took one helluva risk with Phantasmagoria. The characters from A Gentleman’s Wager are so beloved, yet you did NOT give them the expected happy ending in Phantasmagoria. In fact, it’s an emotionally painful look at what happens when their relationship falls apart. Did you have any idea how dark Phantasmagoria was going to be? Or maybe the question should be- WHY did you write such an emotionally dark story? While you were writing it, were you able to walk away from all those emotions, or did you feel like you couldn’t quite shake off all that darkness when you left your desk?
	I knew from the start that Phantasmagoria was going to be the dark heart of their story and that it was going to be a rough journey. It’s not the end of the story though (although I still need to convince an editor of that.) As for why I chose to write something quite so emotionally tortuous, I suppose the reasons are two-fold. Firstly, I strive for emotional complexity and I think it’s only through tragedy that you really see what makes people tick. A story about Vaughan, Bella and Lucerne all getting along wouldn’t have made for a very gripping read, regardless of how much hot sex they were enjoying. The second reason is rather more personal. Just prior to embarking upon writing Phantasmagoria I received some devastating and life-altering news. I’m not prepared to divulge any more information about it than that. However, that period was an extremely difficult time emotionally, and I’m sure that my feelings tipped over into my writing. I certainly cried buckets over certain events. You might say that I was using my characters as a sort of therapy. Though their problems have no resemblance to my own.
	Then you decided to do something even more surprising- instead of finishing the story immediately with a follow-up book, you are doing a spin-off series before returning to the original characters and finishing their story. Do you already have all these subsequent books mapped-out/outlined or are you a “seat-of-your-pants” writer and start with a basic idea but then let things happen as your muse/characters/secret-voices direct at the time?
	I’m definitely more of a “seat-of-the-pants” writer than a plotter. What I have for these subsequent books are key points and general themes I want to explore. The first spin-off book is more or less complete. As for why I decided to do the spin-off stories first… it’s to do with the timeline of events, as key characters from AGW and Phantasmagoria crop up in these stories. The other reason I didn’t immediately launch into completing Vaughan, Bella & Lucerne’s story is because I needed a break from Vaughan. He’s a bit intense, you know. And very demanding! Also, I wanted time to let the ideas percolate.
	In both A Gentleman’s Wager and Phantasmagoria, you treat us to very visual physical descriptions of the characters… except Bella, the female lead in both books. We really know very few details about her looks. Was that a conscious decision on your part? When you are writing, do you view the story through the eyes of one of the lead characters (in this case, Bella’s), and consequently lead the reader to do the same?
	I can’t honestly say that it’s a conscious decision. Actually, I’m surprised. I thought she was described. If the details of her appearance are less exact than those of the men, I suspect that can be put down to the fact that while I love my female characters, I’m not in love with them. I’m always hopelessly infatuated with my male characters. I work on the principle that if I love them, there’s a fair chance that someone else will feel the same way.
	AGW and Phantasmagoria are historical stories (Georgian), but you also write contemporaries, including yaoi inspired and paranormal. Are any of these sub-genres easier/harder than the others for you? Is it hard to transition back and forth between them, or does the contrast actually make it easier to keep them separate in your mind?
	Each book is different. I don’t think it’s the sub-genre that governs whether something is easier/harder to write. I enjoy writing historical novels because the period fascinates me. Paranormals allow me to let my imagination run wild. Contemporaries… Unless something specific inspires me, eg Egyptian archaeology (Passion of Isis) or yaoi manga/gothic fashion (Dark Designs), I tend to avoid them. I actually find the humdrum realism of them frustrating. Also, because my contemporaries focus on niche settings, they tend to involve vast amounts of research, even more than the historical set books.
	So, what releases are coming up for you? What are you working on right now?
	No scheduled releases at the moment after Phantasmagoria. Currently I’m working on the second draft of the first AGW spin-off story, and outlining a sequel to my recent paranormal novella Broken Angel [from the anthology, Possession].
	I just have to ask you about the live role playing (LRP) events that you and your partner run. Please tell us more- Are there specific historical periods that you portray? Are they mysteries, comedies, dramas? Are your children involved or are these adults-only events? Are they outdoor only events or do you hold them at different venues year round? You also put together props, come up with plots, make period costumes, do the make-up; basically keep everything running. Is this a hobby gone mad or has it now become a business in the “find what you love to do, then find a way to get paid for it” sense?
	LRP – lets see, indoors, outdoors, generally either turn of the century horror or pseudo-medieval fantasy, lots of different venues across the UK ranging from campsites to castles. I’m actually feeling quite out of touch with it, other things have cut into the time we have to spend on these events. [Ed.(Bev): that's Madelynne in one of her period costumes]

10 Quick Quacks about Madelynne Ellis

1. Milk, dark, or white chocolate?

Milk. Dark chocolate gives me a headache and white chocolate is just yuck.

2. If you could spend one month anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Somewhere where there wasn’t anyone else. Possibly Fort Clonque. It’s a tiny island off the coast of Alderney, Channel Islands, which houses a fort and nothing else. [pictured at right]

3. Burn, tan, or SPF=cardboard?

Eh? I don’t do sun.

4. Gym, sports, or “I love my ass”?

I swim when the UK weather doesn’t mean I come out with icicles in my hair.

5. What author haven’t you read that you keep meaning to?

Glancing at the TBR pile. Sherrilyn Kenyon. I appear to have a large pile of her books that I’ve not looked at, and Sebastian Faulks.

6. Heels or flats?

Flats, mostly.

7. Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, Orlando Bloom, George Clooney, Gerard Butler, or Sean Connery?

Johnny Depp but only by default. Really none of the above.

8. Coffee or Tea?

Black Coffee

9. Favorite dessert?

I’m not a dessert person. [Bev: HAH! See? She's NOT perfect!]

10. Peanut butter, jelly, or Vegemite

In what context? [Bev: When you read Phantasmagoria, you'll understand why she couldn't give a decisive answer. hee]

Thank you so much for coming out to play with us, Madelynne!

Madelynne’s novels and novellas:



Madelynne’s short stories can be found in these anthologies:



Virgin Black Lace books can be ordered from Amazon, or through Borders, and Barnes & Noble. Many new Black Lace releases can also be found on the shelves of the latter two stores.

Quick bio notes and what Madelynne will be up to:  Madelynne, who lives in the U.K. with “Mr. Madelynne” and their two children, is a frequent contributor to the Virgin Black Lace group author blog, Lust Bites. Last July, Madelynne partnered up with Portia Da Costa to host a Not Going to Nationals Cyber-Workshop on writing erotic scenes over at the Romance Divas forum (their members-only thread can be found here). This year Madelynne, travelling with authors Portia Da Costa/Wendy Wooton and Saskia Walker, is going to make her FIRST visit to this side of the pond to attend RWA Nationals in San Francisco! So if you’re also going, make sure to hunt her down. And for duckies sake— will you please take them under your wing and make sure they get to see more of the U.S. than the inside of the hotel?!

CONTEST:  Madelynne will be sending some Lucky Duckie a SIGNED copy of A Gentleman’s Wager AND Phantasmagoria! Winner will be chosen from comments on this post or on my review of Phantasmagoria over here. Keep in mind that these are erotic historical romances containing m/m, m/f/m, m/m/f, and m/f scenes. Each book also contains a brief f/f scene. So, if that doesn’t float your boat, or you are under 18, feel free to leave a comment or question for Madelynne, but please indicate you don’t want to be entered in the drawing.

BevQB‘s review of Phantasmagoria by Madelynne Ellis
Historical erotic romance released by Virgin Black Lace 29 Apr 08

Chosen to kick off the 15th Anniversary celebration of Virgin Black Lace, this surprising sequel to A Gentleman’s Wager (reviewed here) is an emotionally wrenching, dark journey through the death of a relationship. Phantasmagoria isn’t a book that one could say they “liked” or “loved” because those words just would never apply to this haunting story. It’s raw, cruel, complex, often crude, and Madelynne Ellis doesn’t spare us by allowing us to flinch away from all the manifestations of the characters’ pain.

Warning: mild spoilers ahead

Set in Georgian period London three years after Vaughan, Lucerne and Bella left North Yorkshire, we find the threesome stagnating under the constant rounds of socializing and debauchery in the city. Hoping to reinvigorate the relationship, Vaughan secretly makes plans to manipulate them all away from town and devises a gothic All Hallow’s Eve celebration, a Phantasmagoria, at his family seat in Pennerly, near the Welsh borders (imagine creating a Haunted House when your house happens to be a castle). He then clandestinely flees London fully expecting the mystery of his disappearance to lure Lucerne and Bella to follow him.

Not only do Vaughan’s house party plans go awry, but they are not the only phantasmagoria [noun: an illusion of perceiving something that does not really exist] in the book. Like the parable of the blind men and the elephant, each of the main characters perceives their relationship in a completely different, but incomplete and/or erroneous way. These and other phantasms haunt the characters throughout the book.

• As we already know from A Gentleman’s Wager, Vaughan’s usual method of dealing with his emotional pain is to lash out in cruelty towards others, particularly Bella. I wanted to shake him and tell him to stop debasing her, himself, and what they had together. He is haunted by the phantasms of what his life with Lucerne would have been like had Bella not appeared. In a country where homosexuality was an automatic death sentence, would they still have been together? What if he had never fled London? What if Lucerne had followed him? What if he had never let himself care at all?
• The phantasm of “What if” haunts Bella also. What if Vaughan had not been in the picture? Would she and Lucerne have been married, possibly with a child or two? What if they had never left North Yorkshire for a life in London? What if Vaughan had never left? What if she didn’t now know what she found out before she fled London, and Lucerne, to find Vaughan?

Throughout most of this book, I wanted Bella to walk away from BOTH of the men. I felt she deserved better and was angry on her behalf. In fact, when she receives another offer, I found myself hoping she would take it and never look back. Then I finally realized that, though it’s not the type of relationship I would want for myself, Bella didn’t love Lucerne and Vaughan IN SPITE of the way they treated her, she loved them BECAUSE of their treatment. No matter how vile Vaughan was to her, she CRAVED more of it.

• And Lucerne? I spent most the book angry with him. How could he do that? Why was he ruining everything? But then he told us his view of the relationship and immediately garnered my sympathy. Oh, I still didn’t approve of what he did, but the “why” of his actions broke my heart for him.

I can’t tell you how many times I wanted to stop reading this book, to put it away and never look at it again. No, not because it was a DNF book, but because I didn’t want it to happen, I didn’t want to go on that painful emotional journey with them. As curious as I’ve been about their lives after AGW, once I started reading Phantasmagoria, I wanted to go back and keep them forever frozen in that magical moment at the end of AGW.

But instead the author forced me to admit that people are not static, their environment changes, their circumstances change, THEY change, and sometimes that means that what they had with each other changes detrimentally. Madelynne Ellis made me feel their heart wrenching pain right along with them, no matter how difficult it was to watch.

Saying that Phantasmagoria ends with an HEA would be misleading, but Ellis does gives us a bittersweet-tinged hope for the future; a possibility of something new rising out of the ashes of the relationship. She also introduces us to a whole new cast of engaging secondary characters, some of whom will be getting their own stories before Ellis returns to the original threesome to finish their story.

Phantasmagoria could certainly be read as a standalone, but the reader’s emotional involvement will be impacted far more if A Gentleman’s Wager is read first. And really, if you read my glowing homage to AGW, you know that it’s one of my most beloved books and reading it would scarcely be a hardship.

Grade: A

Summary:

     1800 – Three years after she escaped to London with her bisexual lovers, Bella Rushdale wakes one morning to find their delicate menage a trois about to shatter. Vaughan, Marquis of Pennerley has left abruptly and without explanation. Determined to reclaim him and preserve their relationship, Bella pursues him to his family seat on the Welsh Border, where she finds herself embroiled in his preparations for a diabolical gothic celebration on All Hallows Eve – a phantasmagoria. Among the shadows and phantoms, Bella and her lovers will discover shocking truths about each other.

     Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Read Bev’s review.

Read the short story Indiscretions which takes place between A Gentleman’s Wager and Phantasmagoria.

In addition to her own blog, Madelynne is also a regular on the Black Lace authors’ group blog, Lust Bites. Just be warned that the discussions by that bunch of bawdy Brits aren’t always work safe.

CONTEST!  Madelynne will be sending some Lucky Duckie a SIGNED copy of A Gentleman’s Wager AND Phantasmagoria! Winner will be chosen from comments on this post or on Bev’s interview with Madelynne over here.

Keep in mind that these are erotic historical romances containing m/m, m/f/m, m/m/f, and m/f scenes. Each book also contains a brief f/f scene. So, if that doesn’t trip your trigger, or you are under 18, feel free to leave a comment or question, but please indicate you don’t want to be entered in the drawing.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of One Foot in the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 2) by Jeaniene Frost
Paranormal romance/urban fantasy released by Avon Books 29 Apr 08

PHEW! If you thought Book 1 in the Night Huntress series, Halfway to the Grave (reviewed here), was a page turner, wait till you read this one!

Warning: mild spoilers ahead, but not much more than the book summary gives away.

It’s been four years since the half-human and half-vampire, Cat, left Bones, an old, very powerful vampire, to protect him from being hunted down and killed. During that time, Cat has assembled and trained a secret government sanctioned vampire hunting team.

Now Bones is back and he’s not leaving. He will do whatever it takes to stay with Cat. The problem right now is that the relationship is one-sided. Bones changes his life, sacrifices and risks much (and does so willingly), but with only a couple of concessions (fans will cheer at one of them), Cat is almost daring him to love her, to prove that he really does care that much for her (wait till you read his “proof” in the bedroom! WOWZER!).

Sooner or later, though, I have to wonder if Cat (or Bones) will realize that she’ll need to give more, to prove to HIM that SHE loves him. One incident near the end of the book would seem to be that declarative proof, but the almost offhand way she mentions it later makes me wonder if it really meant as much to her as it did to him.

We do see a few glimpses of the mature woman Cat may one day be, but for the most part she still wants everything HER way. She barrels into danger with a surprising lack of common sense. And she either possesses a sense of invincibility or possibly suicidal tendencies– I’m never quite sure which and I doubt SHE knows either. No, it doesn’t cross over the TSTL line, but Frost IS edging her toes up to the line where hero/ine crosses over to Superhero/ine and I sincerely hope she stays well away from it.

A LOT happens during the course of this book, the cast of characters is expanded, and… I’m not going to spoil it any further. Just trust me when I tell you that I have a feeling (and a hope), that some of it is going to come back and bite Cat and Bones in the butt. (hee… Vampire humor)

I will say, though, that unlike Halfway to the Grave, One Foot in the Grave ends quite happily for several people, including Cat and Bones. Now, who knows how Frost will end the next one in the series—remember she’s only promised an eventual HEA at the end of the ENTIRE series—but be prepared for an interesting HEA in this one.

Oh, here’s a question for you medical type duckies: Can a regular human (i.e. not Cat) drink a pint of blood without throwing it up? The humans in Cat’s team ramp up their power by drinking vampire blood and, unless there’s some yummy goodness in it that Frost doesn’t mention, I just can’t see how they could swallow it and keep it down.

That appetizing thought notwithstanding, Jeanine Frost has written another highly enjoyable, engrossing story and, while I strongly recommend you read Book 1, Halfway to the Grave, first, I believe One Foot in the Grave CAN be read as a standalone.

Grade: B+

Summary:

You can run from the grave, but you can’t hide…

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She’s still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help her is the vampire she left behind.

Being around Bones awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline rush of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head – wanted: dead or half-alive – means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard Cat tries to keep things professional between them, she’ll find that desire lasts forever … and Bones won’t let her get away again.

Author’s summary and excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Read Bev’s review of Book 1.

Read more from Bev on her personal blog Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of Fairy Dust by Tielle St. Clare
Erotic fantasy ebook released by Ellora’s Cave 2 Apr 08

So what happens when a Fairy Godmother wants to give even HAPPIER Ever Afters? When she decides that the story shouldn’t END with a kiss, but rather that a kiss should be just the first step to a Horny Ever After?

Fairy Godmother Marlena decides to do a bit of tweaking to the standard issue HEA Fairy Dust and pretty soon the characters in well known Fairy Tales are humpin’ like bunnies. Her boss is NOT pleased and decides the best way for Marlena to remember how she is SUPPOSED to end the stories is to insert her into the Fairy Tales and let her experience the Happily Ever After to be found in that One Perfect Kiss.

Good plan. And Marlena has every intention of following the original storylines, but somehow bits of her altered Fairy Dust make their way into each story with her. Massive quantities of smokin’ hot secksin’ ensue. And Marlena’s boss has to send his assistant scrambling to round up all the books that contain the new, x-rated versions of the stories that unfold.

This was a fairly quick read, yet I have to give kudos to St. Clare for such an entertaining and well thought out storyline. But that cover? UGH! Fairy Godtranny.

Bottom line: I recommend Fairy Dust because it was fun, light, and very, VERY hot.

Grade: B-

From Ellora’s Cave:

     When Fairy Godmother Marlena gets in trouble for including a hot sex additive to her Happily Ever After Fairy Dust, her bosses decide she’s lost touch with their mission. They announce she will become various fairy tale characters until she understands that fairy tales are about overcoming obstacles to find true love — and not about hot, wild, break the headboard sex.

     Marlena tries to follow the rules, but brief episodes with the Troll from Rumpelstiltskin and Snow White’s Handsome Prince reveal just how powerful her Fairy Dust really is. Who knew the Troll would grow so large in such interesting places? Or that the Prince had a spanking fetish?

     And when she finds herself dressed as Little Red Riding Hood and trapped between the Wolf and the Huntsman…well, what’s a girl to do? Find her own Happily Ever After, of course.

     Read an excerpt.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of A Gentleman’s Wager by Madelynne Ellis
Erotic historical romance re-released by Virgin Black Lace on 1 Apr 08

First published in the UK in May 2003, A Gentleman’s Wager is being re-released with a luscious new cover and a perfect new tag line: Pride and Decadence. Set in North Yorkshire, near Richmond, England, this exquisite, lusty, Georgian period romp is, at its core, a love triangle between Viscount Marlinscar (Lucerne), and Annabella Rushdale (Bella), who finds herself at odds with a rival for his attention… Vaughan, Marquis of Pennerly.

These three multifaceted characters, along with intertwined stories involving the small cast of engaging secondary characters, are the reason AGW is so memorable. I guarantee that you’ve never met them before, and you won’t forget them once you have.

In fact, this was the most difficult review I’ve ever written because this isn’t just a review; it’s also homage to a much beloved story. I re-read it at least once a year and never fail to be in awe of Madelynne Ellis’ ability to create such unexpected, complex characters. My greatest challenge was that I needed to convey more than a string of superlatives AND avoid a multi page, in-depth character analysis (focused mainly on Vaughan because… well… he insists on it).

• Bella starts off the story as self-centered and slutty. While she refers to other women as trollops and whores, she dismisses her own promiscuity as merely pursuing her own needs, desires and amusements. However, through the course of the story, she begins to assess her own actions and experiences the unfamiliar emotions of guilt, insecurity, and self doubt. Although Lucerne is the object of her affections, she is confused by her reaction to Vaughan, at once vehemently hating him and obsessively fascinated by him. She is wounded by the sting of his venom and cruelty, yet still finds herself drawn to him.

• We get to know the anchor of the love triangle, Lucerne, more through his interactions with the other characters than through introspection. When he decides to take a break from the decadence of London to spend the winter at one of his long neglected country estates, Lauwine Hall, he invites a few friends, including Vaughan, to join him. He knows Vaughan wants more than friendship from him and chooses not to acknowledge it… or the wine-hazed encounter with Vaughan three years earlier. Once Lucerne shows a serious interest in his neighbor, Bella, Vaughan starts to pressure him for a closer relationship, and Lucerne realizes he wants both Vaughan AND Bella and would rather not give either of them up. But, cast in the role of peacemaker, he realizes that he cannot live with the animosity between the two rivals and dreads the time when their constant bickering might force him to choose between them.

• The third member of the triangle, Vaughan, is one of the most deliciously complex characters I’ve ever read. When he is “on stage” (and often when he’s not) he demands- and receives- the attention of everyone in the room… man, woman, or reader. He smirks, he sulks, he lies, he seduces, he pouts. He wields feigned indifference like a sword, and bites out words laced with deadly venom. His Machiavellian manipulations and cruelty towards others, particularly Bella, should have labeled him as the villain of the story. But the glimpses we receive of his hurt, tenderness, and longing for Lucerne soon make us realize that, while he often DOES amuse himself at the expense of others, he just as often lashes out in retaliation for his own pain or to cover his own vulnerability. Accustomed to living the debauched life courtesy of aristocratic entitlement, Vaughan actually seems a bit bewildered that he is capable of emotions strong enough to keep him patiently waiting for Lucerne to return those feelings.

Fortunately, this release of AGW should be much easier to find here in the US than the original release (used copies were going for high prices on Amazon). In addition to Amazon, a limited number of new Black Lace releases have been appearing in Borders and B&N stores, so if you don’t find it, you should be able to order it through one of those sources. It is also available as an audio book through Audible, but be aware that the narrator does not narrate the story with the distinct characterizations that many audio book fans here in the USA are used to. In fact, I’d have to give the audio narration a Grade C+.

I’m so excited that I can finally start sharing this book again. It’s been so frustrating that A Gentleman’s Wager has been out of print for so long. Every single person (that I personally know of) who has read AGW, has placed it on THEIR all time favorite historical romance short list, too. In fact, Teddypig, if you haven’t read AGW already, I’m prepared to receive your declaration of undying gratitude and devotion while you prostrate yourself at my feet.

Yeah, it’s that good.

Grade: A+

Summary:

     When Bella Rushdale finds herself fiercely attracted to landowner Lucerne Marlinscar, she doesn’t expect that the rival for his affections will be another man. The handsome and decadent, Marquis Pennerley, however, has desired Lucerne for years and when all three are brought together at the remote Lauwine Hall, on the Yorkshire Moors, Pennerley intends to claim Lucerne. At the risk of scandal, the contest leads to a passionate struggle between the highly sexed Bella and the debauched aristocrat. Ultimately it will be Lucerne who will choose the outcome, but his descision is bound to cause outrage and upset somebody’s plans.

     Read an excerpt, extras including facts and maps, and a deleted early scene here.

In addition to her own blog, Madelynne is also a regular on the Black Lace authors’ group blog, Lust Bites. Just be warned that the discussions by that bunch of bawdy Brits aren’t always work safe.

Other books in this series:

Phantasmagoria, the long awaited sequel to AGW will be released on 29 Apr 08 (U.S.).

Madelynne has also written a short story, Indiscretions, that takes place during the time period between the two books. It’s available on her website but be aware that, while it serves as a revealing glimpse of the characters and their life after AGW, it also reveals AGW’s ending.




Read more from Bev at her personal blog Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of Raine: The Lords of Satyr (Book 2) by Elizabeth Amber
Fantasy historical erotic romance released by Aphrodisia 1 Mar 08

It wasn’t until a few of you honorary duckies started quacking about how grossed out turned off you were by this book that my interest was piqued. You see, in Nicholas: The Lords of Satyr (Book 1) Raine was a bit of a prig and I wasn’t sure I was going to bother reading this book. What a mistake that would have been!

While Raine may not be for the faint of heart, for someone looking for a truly different and original erotic romance, I highly recommend this book.

This fantasy historical series set in 1820’s Italy centers around three brothers, Nicholas, Raine and Lyon, who are neither human nor fey, but Satyr/shifters who guard the passage between Elseworld and the human world. The King of the Fey is dying and confesses that he fathered daughters on three human women 20 years earlier, but they have no idea they are half fey. He commands the three Satyr brothers to find his daughters and marry them to protect them from the upheaval that will occur upon his death.

In book 1, Nicholas, we learned that the brothers grow an extra peen when in Satyr form and that their mate’s nipples glow when aroused by them. So, how does Elizabeth Amber top all that? By giving the heroine of this book a little extra sumpin’ sumpin’ of her own!

WARNING: SPOILER AHEAD (although it’s revealed at the beginning of the book).

Jordan has been raised as a boy to protect the family inheritance, but has always privately felt s/he had a female identity. Why the confusion? Jordan is a hermaphrodite. S/he has breasts and all the other female “cooter mints,” but instead of a clitoris s/he’s got herself a fully functional penis. Yep, yep, you read that right… the heroine is a chick with a dick!

And, oh, the erotic permutations with three peens and the abundance of orifices this couple possesses! Good God, what will Amber come up with for Lyons story? Can she possibly top Raine and Jordan’s story?

I’ve often said that, for a book to really work for me, I expect to meet engaging characters I’ve never met before, fresh new world building, and/or an edge-of-my-seat storyline. A book has to have at least one of those traits to rise above the thousands of other books, and this book possesses the first TWO. Totally outrageous, yet Amber pulls back and UNDER plays the character of Jordan by gaining our sympathy for her right from the beginning. We’re horrified at the callous way she is treated and soon find that we want Raine to accept her for herself and for him to be the one person who doesn’t make her feel like a freak. I enjoyed watching Jordan’s delight in being treated like a female for the first time in her life.

Although, I should warn those of you with delicate sensibilities that you might have a tough time reading the beginning chapters of this book. The medical community refers to and handles Jordan as an “it”, something less than human. And it IS cringeworthy and uncomfortable to read.

Kudos to the folks at Kensington Aphrodisia for having the cojones to let Elizabeth Amber push the envelope with this highly imaginative story. And further kudos for the Fine Art covers in this series. Yep, that’s some Fine, FINE art.

BTW, It really isn’t necessary to read Nicholas in order to read this book. Amber does an admirable job of making Raine a standalone story.

Grade: A-

From the back cover:

     The last in a fabled line of otherworldly aristocracy, the Lords of Satyr are born to wealth, power, and a talent for sensual delight that mere mortals only dream of. Commanded to marry, these passionate men will travel to Rome, Venice, and Paris—and along the way will explore desires both shamelessly wicked and blissfully divine…

     AS A LOVER, HIS SKILLS ARE LEGENDARY . . .  Middle brother Raine is both sensual and stoic. Scarred by a former wife who could not accept his carnal needs, he wants no part in another marriage. But duty commands that he fulfill his promise to wed King Feydon’s second daughter, Jordan…

     IN MATTERS OF THE HEART, HE HAS MUCH TO LEARN . . .  This loyal satyr begins a search that leads him from Tuscany to romantic Venice, where his beautiful bride awaits, unaware of what passionate delights fate has planned for her. Raine is careful not to reveal his powerful satyr sexuality, for fear of driving yet another woman away. But unbeknownst to him, Jordan is no ordinary woman and was born with an insatiable appetite for love. And as Raine’s heart begins to melt for her, how long will he be able to hide his true nature when Jordan seems to want him so fiercely?

     Read an excerpt.

Other books in the Lords of Satyr series:

Lyon, coming 29 Jul 08




Read more from Bev on her personal blog Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of Challenge Protocol by Dawn Ryder
Contemporary erotic romance ebook released by Ellora’s Cave 15 Mar 08

Gee, this sequel to the slipshod Outside Protocol (Ellora’s Cave, March 2007) did not COMPLETELY suck!

Ryder’s series centers on a team of former Marine Special Ops soldiers who left the service when their team leader, Dack, was framed and given a dishonorable discharge. They now work for Dack in a high priced assessment company that consults with private businesses to identify the “dead weight” and recommends reorganization to eliminate problem areas/employees.

They’ve also made dangerous enemies and must be aware of that threat every minute. They work in teams with a partner, constantly watching each other’s backs, never sleeping at the same time, never having sex at the same time (or so Ryder keeps telling us before the ménage scenes in both books), and always knowing that they will never find love since no woman can accept their lifestyle. In Challenge Protocol, the partners are Dack and Logan, and unlike the previous book, we learn specifically where the threat is coming from and who framed Dack.

Several problems kept me from liking the first book, Outside Protocol, but since the basic premise was interesting, I thought I’d give this author another try. However Ryder (who also writes as Mary Wine) still hasn’t filled all the gaping holes in her stories.

For instance, she goes on at some length about how the men are constantly on guard and are not even identified as employees of the assessment company. They caution that the government has cameras in more places than civilians know of and the team knows those cameras are often monitored by the military. Since it was someone in the military that betrayed them, they see all but a few close ex-military friends as potential assassins.

Yet the team still hangs out at a private club, The Play Yard, that in Outside Protocol, was referred to as a D/s club (which didn’t work well). This bar with chess, checker, and card tables is a better fit in this book as a private club for returning military operatives to adjust to life in the states again, but my point is that they are worried about military personnel identifying them, yet they hang out in a club full of military operatives. Huh?

And their mountaintop compound/home is described as being 30 miles outside of the city, an hour outside of the city, and three hours away from the city. Huh?

Dack and Logan meet Cambria when their company is called in to assess the business that Cambria’s best friend, Mia, works at. Now, I have to say that I REALLY liked Cambria, in fact I liked her enough that this book didn’t end up with a D grade mainly because of her personality. She knows who she is and doesn’t put up with anything from anyone. She ends up with both men, not because they overwhelmed her, but because she wanted both of them and she CHOSE to be with them… on her terms. But after we learn that Cambria climbed her way up the corporate ladder and now holds a high-powered corporate position (we never learn where or what she does), she apparently just walks away from it all without a second thought after being with Dack and Logan. Huh?

And while the relationship between Cambria and Dack works very well, and the sex scenes were hot and well written (more reasons to upgrade from a D), I never felt any connection between her and Logan. In fact, her encounters with Logan felt like the author said “Oh wait, this is supposed to be a ménage, I better put a scene with that other guy in here somewhere.” Huh?

Oh, and let’s talk racial stereotypes, shall we? Cambria, a Black woman, was raised by her single mother in a poor neighborhood filled with gangbangers, along with her five siblings, each of whom had a different father. Her best friend, Mia, an Asian woman whose family owns martial arts academies, is expected to be meek and mild, to not make waves, to live at home with her family until, as a dutiful daughter, she marries the man her parents choose for her. Huh? This is the most original back story Ryder could come up with for these two women?

Bottom line, I think I’ve been more than fair by giving this author two chances. While Challenge Protocol was an improvement over Outside Protocol, there are too many other authors out there that have learned to re-read their books with an objective eye, who CARE that their stories make SENSE, and I think I’d rather spend my time reading their books.

Grade: C-

Summary:

     Cambria is no stranger to hot men or hot loving. She likes her relationships simple – hot, satisfying and under her control. Until Dack and Logan walk into her life. Now nothing’s simple, and she’s losing control. Two hot, hard men who live together, work together and love together, and the woman they want is her. Getting them out of her head, her bed, or her life isn’t working. Choosing between them isn’t an option.

     A vengeful enemy has forced Dack and Logan to live a life spent watching each other’s backs, 24/7. That includes in the bedroom. Nowhere is safe. Love affairs are brief. But Cambria is a lady neither of them can resist. With her sassy attitude and passionate nature, she touches some part of them they’d thought dead.

     Stormy passion and tender touches tempt the two battle-scarred warriors with a taste of the forbidden, but how to keep the woman they both want safe, and in their bed?

     This is a sequel to Outside Protocol, although it can be read as a stand-alone.

     Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

  Read Bev’s review on her personal blog.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of The Beast in Him (Pride, Book 2) by Shelly Laurenston
Paranormal romance released by Kensington Brava on 25 Mar 08

We first met alpha wolf shifter and former Navy SEAL, Bobby Ray Smith (Smitty), in Laurenston’s double novella, The Mane Event.  Along with his sister Sissy Mae and other pack members, Smitty broke from his pack in Tennessee and formed a new pack in NYC. While The Beast in Him could probably be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you grab the pleasure to be found in The Mane Event first.

Once again, Laurenston shows us how, in her expert hands, humor can add a sense of enjoyable playfulness to a story. The humor arises naturally from each character’s personality. It’s like when you and your good (and rowdy) friends get together and talk smack at each other, jerk each other’s chains, push each other’s buttons, but defend each other against all outsiders.

And just like their wild counterparts, Smitty may be the alpha male, but it is the female of the species that is the most dangerous. You’d be hard pressed to find a stronger, more assertive bunch of female characters. As Smitty states:

“She-wolves were real simple to understand if you followed three simple rules: Don’t irritate them, don’t stare them down unless you’ve got a death wish or you’re sure you can take them, and don’t irritate them. You followed that simple logic, you’d do just fine.”

In The Beast in Him, Smitty meets back up with a female African Wild Dog shifter he knew as a teenager before he joined the Navy. Orphaned when a virus wiped out half of the adult Wild Dog shifter population, Jessie Ann was fostered in Smitty’s Tennessee home town and was a favorite target of Sissy Mae and the other then teenaged she-wolves. The one weak aspect to this book was that Laurenston never fully explores how Jessie Ann evolved from a victim to be the highly successful alpha of a large pack of this rare shifter species. How did she get herself together? How did she meet up with all the other Wild Dogs in her pack? I kept waiting for more gaps to be filled in and was disappointed when they weren’t.

Despite that lack, The Beast in Him was a sexy, enjoyable read with moments that had me hootin’ with laughter. Other characters from The Mane Event were welcome and fun additions to this story, too.

Shelly Laurenston remains on my auto-buy list and I can’t wait to see who finds their mate next!

Grade: B+

From the back cover:

     Some things are so worth waiting for. Like the moment when Jessica Ward “accidentally” bumps into Bobby Ray Smith and shows him just how far she’s come since high school. Back then, Jess’s gangly limbs and bruised heart turn to jelly any time Smitty’s “all the better to ravish you with” body came near her. So, some things haven’t changed. Except now Jess is a success on her own terms. And she can enjoy a romp-or twenty-with a big, bad wolf and walk away. Easy.

     The sexy, polished CEO who hires Smitty’s security firm might be a million miles from the loveable geek he knew, but her kiss, her touch, is every bit as hot as he imagined. Jess was never the kind to ask for help, and she doesn’t want it now, not even with someone targeting her Pack. But Smitty’s not going to turn tail and run. Not before proving that their sheet-scorching animal lust is only the start of something even wilder…

     Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

BevQB’s review of Kiss of the Highlander (The Highlander Series, Book 4) by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante
Paranormal historical timetravel fantasy romance Audio Book released by Brilliance Audio on 20 Jan 08

Kiss of the Highlander in audio format is the perfect mating of story and storyteller and I can’t imagine merely reading this story from a printed page ever again. Phil Gigante brings every minute of this pure escapist fantasy story to life. Audio books, in fact most Romance books, don’t get any better than this!

WAIT! WAIT! I know you are expecting me to once again squee about the aural pleasures to be found in Phil Gigante’s eargasmic portrayal of Drustan (and, oh, I will), but there’s much more to expound on in this absolutely spell binding audio book. (btw, did ya notice the big “contest” tag? Hmmmm?)

This is the fourth audio book release in KMM’s Highlanders series and centers on Drustan MacKelter and Gwen Cassidy. Containing both paranormal and fantasy (fae) elements, Kiss is set, through time travel, in historic and modern day Scotland. This is a standalone story, so it is not necessary to be familiar with the previous books in the series to enjoy this one, but, trust me; you’re going to want them all!

Have I ever mentioned just how damn ENTERTAINING Phil G’s narration is? In fact, I really hesitate to refer to what he does as mere narration. It’s a PERFORMANCE. The voices and effects he uses for all the characters, both lead and minor, are spot on. Often, when a man attempts a woman’s voice, it comes off as mocking. However, while no one will ever mistake Phil’s voice for a woman’s, I quickly was no longer conscious that a man was voicing the female characters. Yes, he uses a higher pitched voice for women, but there’s something else there too… a softness, a vulnerability… something… that does not scream “man mocking woman”.

Unless he wants to. One of the most entertaining moments in this audio book and one that showcases Phil G’s amazing talent is when Drustan is teasing Gwen and repeating her words in her “voice” . So we’re treated to Phil as Drustan mocking Phil as Gwen using Drustan’s version of Gwen’s voice. Trust me, Phil nails it!! Just hand him next year’s Audie Award now!

When I think of The Highlanders series, Kiss of the Highlander has always been the first one to come to mind. But if, like me, you are also a fan of KMM’s brilliant Fever series, you will have a lot of fun listening for Fever clues throughout the Highlander books. Kiss is the second book with a direct link to the later series (The Hallows appear in book 3, The Highlander’s Touch), and is the first of the MacKelter books (we meet Christian MacKelter, from Bloodfever, towards the end of Kiss). It’s fascinating to revisit all the Highlander fae lore that eventually comes together to spawn the complex Fever books.

But, the most compelling reason (besides my all-time favorite Nathan Kamp cover pic) to buy this (and all the rest of the series) in audio format is what narrator Phil Gigante does for your ears— and other body parts that are directly or indirectly attached to them. Be sure to use earphones when listening to Drustan’s seduction of Gwen- Phil uses a deep vibrating growl that you can seriously feel down to your toes! I’m not ashamed to admit that listening to Phil G’s Scottish brogue has become an addiction and an obsession for me.

	Grade: A Listen to a summary of the book followed by a sample of Gigante’s narration here. And oh, what a shiver-worthy sample it is!
	Click here to sample the rest of the Highlander series audio books.Book 5, The Dark Highlander, will be released 20 March 2008, followed by book 6, The Immortal Highlander, in May 2008. I highly recommend that books 5 and 6 be read/listened to in order AFTER this 4th book, Kiss of the Highlander. Go. Buy. Or borrow from your library. Audio books don’t get any better than these!

CONTEST!!

It’s no secret that everyone here at TGTBTU is unashamedly a fan of the Romance genre. Plus – we love nothing more than to share our love of the genre with anyone and everyone. So, I’ve decide to put my money where my mouth is.

I so love this audio book that I want to SHARE IT WITH ONE LUCKY DUCK AND WILL HAVE IT SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOU FROM AMAZON. Just comment on this post for a chance to win one copy of the unabridged KISS OF THE HIGHLANDER CDs.

One entry per IP address, U.S. residents only (sorry non-US folks).  The winner will be selected from comments made before midnight tomorrow, Tuesday, 18 March, according to the blog timestamp (we’re US Central timezone).

And, if you end up listening to Kiss of the Highlander, PLEASE let me know what you thought of it.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

From the “OMG That’s So Freakin’… uh… NOT All That Exciting” News File:

Last month Random House made the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT that they would begin selling their audio books DRM-free “As of March 1, the house ‘will no longer require that our retail partners use DRM when selling audiobooks via digital download. We believe that this move will allow for healthy competition among retailers targeting the iPod consumer without posing any substantive increase in risk of piracy.’”

Now, the New York Times is reporting that more publishers such as Penguin Group and Simon & Schuster are announcing their own move to DRM-free audio books. And booksellers, such as the Borders Group, are showing more interest in sales of audio book downloads.

I’ve never thought of audio books as using DRM, just ebooks. But IF I understand this correctly (and I checked with Teddypig to make sure I did; DRM for ebooks is one of his hot buttons), then the fact that all the downloadable audio books that I personally own can only be downloaded in digital format through either Audible’s Audio Manager or Overdrive Media Manager (Brilliance Audio) software means they are using DRM. Yes, I know— DUH! Of COURSE that’s DRM, Bev! But here’s why I wasn’t sure— once I’ve downloaded them, I can burn them to CDs, download them to any MP3 player, and even upload from those forms to another PC.

So, if audio books are protected by DRM, just what is DRM protecting?! What’s the freakin’ fuss about? Really, this is pretty much just a big announcement that this is business as usual minus the need to jump thru a hoop or two, right? Besides, I kind of LIKE those download managers.

For me, the most exciting news in all that non-news is that I can buy downloadable audio books from emusic. Never heard of them before and never would have guessed they sold audio books, [Shut up! I still use the word “album”] but I’m always on the lookout for new ways to feed my audio book addiction.

I am wondering, however, if all these announcements are going to throw a monkey wrench into Amazon’s plans. Amazon’s recent acquisition of Audible, combined with their purchase of Brilliance Audio last May, raised all kinds of warning flags for me. With Amazon virtually controlling the audio book market, they could potentially set prices wherever they damn well please. Maybe even lower prices for their Kindle audio format (yep, THAT’S what the earphone jack is for) with higher prices for other formats.

If the most immediate benefit to downloadable audio books going DRM-free is that there will soon be even more outlets for purchase, then Amazon will have no choice but to keep their prices competitive. Who knows, they might even LOWER prices to maintain their competitive edge! As long as that means that audio book producers don’t have to lower their production standards, than I think we are about to see audio books explode in popularity. I think it’s been their relatively high price in comparison to print or ebook that has kept consumers away. Teddypig tells me that DRM adds to the price, so really, there should be no excuse for the high prices I see for many downloadable audio books, particularly in comparison to audio books on CDs. No, I don’t expect the prices to ever fall anywhere near as low as the price of paperbacks, but I’m willing to continue to pay more for the convenience, entertainment, and enjoyment

I recently emailed Stephanie Laurens when I could only find the ABRIDGED (no-no-no) version of her new Cynster series release Where the Heart Leads. I also have been patiently waiting for Recorded Books to re-release Devil’s Bride on CD (it’s currently only available in expensive library edition cassettes) and hoped she would have the 411.

Well, SQUEEE, cause Stephanie Laurens took the time to answer me personally! Regarding the UNABRIDGED version of Where the Heart Leads– “I agree with you entirely over the inadequacies of the abridged version – I do not know why they bother, but apparently libraries prefer them. Seems odd to me, but…

However, the answer to your question is yes – all my works ultimately go to Recorded Books for the unabridged version. Because of the constraints inherent in the system, the unabridged is usually at least 12 months behind the release of the book. I think Recorded Books is behind on a few of the Cynster works, even though they are doing them, and are even further behind on the Bastion Club novels, but again they are coming through. They’re just slow.”

Regarding the re-release of Devil’s Bride on audio CD—“We’ve been nudging them over this – how hard could it be? We’ll keep at them.”

So, bad news for my “I want it NOW” side, but did I mention that Stephanie freakin’ Laurens answered me herself?!!! SQUEE!

ADDED: Couldn’t hurt to email Recorded Books (customerservice(at)recordedbooks(dot)com ) and ask them whether they are planning to re-release Devil’s Bride in a consumer’s edition, can it? I just did.

Now, no mention of audio books would be complete without our Phil Gigante. Last I heard, his prep work is done and he should be in the studio recording Karen Marie Moning’s The Immortal Highlander (release date 20 May 2008). That’s Adam’s story, which is swoon worthy enough, but remember what happens in that one— there are scenes with Adam, Drustan, Dageus, and their wives all in the same room! I have no doubt that Phil is gifted with enough talent to nail those scenes, but I also have no doubt that my autopsy report will read “Death by Eargasm”.

…aka, They Interrupted My Snarkfest to Give Out Some Stoopid Ol’ Moovee Awards!

You know what? I really didn’t have a clue what movies were nominated. I DID know that I hadn’t seen a single one. I don’t LIKE going to movie theaters. First of all, it’s too dark to read a book, but the light from my PDA seems to annoy other people. *sniff* Whatever.

So, I get bored and eat a barrel o’ popcorn which I then wash down with a small (i.e. freakin gallon sized) cup o’ Coke. After which, the ebil theater owners refuse… REFUSE… to pause the movie so I can answer the call o’ nature. But they are not done with me yet, oh no— I sit there doing the pee-pee-foot-wiggle (and hoping I don’t sneeze) clear through the end of the closing credit scroll because the equally ebil movie people now entice us to read the damn things by placing little extras at the end. By the time THOSE are over, I’m dashing (okay waddling really, really fast) out the door headed to the bathroom. And woe to anyone who gets in my way because they’ll find themselves body slammed against the wall by my mighty Mom Hips. And btw, you ARE aware, aren’t you, that the handicap symbol on the stall merely means handicapped ACCESSIBLE, not handicapped ONLY? (Note that all nasty emails are automatically directed to SYBIL’s email account)

Yeah, yeah, so why do I bother to watch the Oscars? Simple… for me, it’s all about the pre-show. More specifically, The Red Carpet as spectator sport.

Now, before someone gets all righteous and indignant on the poor, defenseless celebrities’ behalf, I’ll just admit right up front that I am well aware that most of those gowns would be too tight to fit over my left leg. But, dammit, cattiness is fun, and since my oldest Darling Daughter (DD) and I watch the pre-shows together, I view it as a chance to advance her opinionated-bitch-in-training status. Besides, she actually LOVES watching movies and fills me in on who is who. Can’t tell the players without a scorecard, you know.

So without further ado, let the MEOWS begin!

Cameron Diaz:
DD: EEEWWWW, that looks AWFUL! Why would she wear that!
ME: OH GOOD LORD! NO, just… no.
Moviefone: on “Worst of…” list
E! Online: Almost evenly divided between Glam: 55.6%, Sham: 44.4%
People Magazine: on “Best of…” list; oddly enough, People doesn’t even HAVE a “Worst of…” list yet
Go Fug Yourself: “it’s a bedsheet, and — it must be said — possibly a very low thread-count bedsheet she bought from Target because her old linens smelled like Justin and so she had to burn them.”

Marion Cotillard: (Who?! She won the Best Actress Oscar. :shrug:)
DD: Oh, I really LIKE that!
ME: GAK! Mermaid dress + fish scales = Halloween costume
Moviefone: on “Worst of…” list
E! Online: Glam: 73.9%
People: on “Best of…” list
Go Fug Yourself: “it looks like what might happen if fish scales and lace mated… I think I might sort of….like it.”

Tilda Swinton:
DD: WHOA!
ME: AAAHHHH! I get that you’re… uh… different and see no need to wear make-up, but lady dude whatever, even David Bowie wore makeup and a little powder couldn’t hurt cuz you’re freakin’ blinding me with the glare off your face while you’re accepting your award for Best Supporting Actress!
Moviefone: on “Worst of…” list
E! Online: not mentioned (ooh, SLAMMED by default!)
People: not mentioned (maybe they’re finalizing their “Worst of…” list)
Go Fug Yourself: “but it’s….Tilda Swinton. This is totally what she wears, like, grocery shopping. I can’t totally ding it for her.”

Kristin Cheboweth:
DD: uh… no.
ME: Just stick a feather on her head and she’d be a Wild West saloon floozy.
Moviefone: on “Best of…” list
E! Online: Not mentioned
People: on “Best of…: list
Go Fug Yourself: not mentioned… yet

Renee Zellweger:
DD: oooh, I can’t stand to even LOOK at her
ME: Silver and Bones, Silver and Bones; wasn’t that a Burl Ives Christmas Carol?
Moviefone: on “Best of…” list
E! Online: Glam 49.5%, Slam 50.5%
People: On “Best of…” list
Go Fug Yourself: “Oh, look, it’s Renee Zzzzzzz……”


Those were the big losers at my house, except for Sara Larson, George Clooney’s date. :shudders: But she gets extra points for wearing George on her arm. Really, though, George knows people. You’d think he coulda scored her a comp instead of forcing her to cut up her Grandma’s sofa to make her own dress.

Most of the rest of the beotches were just “meh”, “okay”, “nice”, or “not bad”. I wish I could find a scoopable pic of Viggo Mortensen for you, though. Sad… really, really sad, probably a bit horrifying, really. Don’t these people know I’ve been scouting pictures for this post all freakin’ day and they STILL don’t have them all published yet! Geesh!

The two big WINNERS at my house? Heidi Klum and Anne Hathaway. Beautiful, glamorous, show-stopping.

[Oh look, the Contest Duckie wrote this post... hmmmm.... I wonder if there's any significance to that? And, is that a blue "Contest" tag I spy down there? The plot thickens!]

Bev(QB)’s review of Mona Lisa Craving (Monére: Children of the Moon, Book 5) by Sunny
Paranormal Fantasy romance released 2 Jan 08 by Berkley Trade

Well, hell. NOW what am I supposed to do? It’s just no fun reading these Sunny books if she’s not gonna amuse me with the “Which scene in which LKH book is THAT derived from?” game.  I know, I’m sick.  I probably need an intervention. I actually LIKE these Monère books. Yet, at the same time, I LOATHE them.

Wait— let me back the snark wagon up for those of you that are unfamiliar with Sunny too-important-to-use-a-last-name’s Monère series. (Yeah, yeah, she has a famous writer husband, whom I’ve never heard of, and she didn’t want to use his last name. But the fact that she couldn’t think up a pen pseudonym alter-ego name should be your first clue about her level of creativity.) And don’t look for her books in the genre sections of your bookstore. Her books are far too lofty and important to be associated with all that common riff-raff in there. She does NOT write paranormal fantasy romance, nor sci-fi, nor dark fantasy. She writes NOVELS that are shelved in the fiction section. Whatever. [Hey, Syb… does that mean this qualifies as a ROB Review?]

I was going to use “The Big P ” Pie recipe analogy to summarize this series for you, but our head duckie wrangler, Sybil, has issued the edict that I can’t use P-words in my review. So, henceforth, I will restrain myself and will instead refer to this series as “The Big D” Tart.

Recipe for The Big D Tart

World Building Crust: apparently DERIVED from Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels series

Ingredients:
-The complex Queens hierarchy
-Hell and its Lords
-Demon dead
-Janelle

For those of you that may wish to attempt this recipe on your own, here’s a helpful hint from Anne Bishop “Those Who Know checked out the book in question and feel the similarities are superficial rather than substance. So it’s imitation of some elements rather than intellectual theft and hasn’t crossed any legal lines.” 10/03/2006 LKH forum, re: Monère Book 1: Mona Lisa Awakening

Character Filling: apparently DERIVED from Laurell K. Hamilton’s Merry Gentry series

Ingredients:
-mixed breed (human/non-human) queen with modern ways and unheard of compassion
-moonlight glowing skin during sex
-Healing during sex
-acquires new abilities through sex or emergency
-Hands of Power [oops, P-word. Sorry Syb]
-Male harem/guards
-Hopes one of her guards will be her baby daddy [until this latest book]
-Loves certain guards more than others
-Is loved by all her guards
-Is hated/ feared by everyone else

Whipped Topping: apparently DERIVED from Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series

Ingredients:
-Healing during sex
-acquires new abilities through sex or emergency
-discovers she has an inner beast
-channels her beast’s bloodlust into sex
-acquires the abilities of others through sex
-has the ability to suck the life force out of another Monère by laying her hands on their face
-uses her own life-force to metaphysically feed others
-loves a blood drinker, loves a few shape-shifters, loves almost everyone she boinks
-Is loved and/or lusted over by all that are close to her
-Is hated/feared by everyone else

So there you have it. The recipe for Big D Tart that Sunny follows step by step… and often nearly word for word. Until this latest book.

In Mona Lisa Craving, she still frequently CHANNELS Hamilton’s writing STYLE, but I missed all the fun of stopping and trying to figure out whether the scenes were DERIVED directly from a Merry Gentry book or were more Anita Blake-ish. I’m old. I need to exercise my memory muscles. So I was disappointed that I didn’t get to flex my brain cells while reading “Craving”.

But then again, she DOES channel old bodice-rippers in this one…

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD:

Mona Lisa realizes it’s not a good idea to get preggers [damn, another P-word] knocked-up and tells her much-loved guards that they need to use condoms. Soon after, when she’s kidnapped and forced to heal a chained, sweaty, crazy man—through sex, cause that’s how she does it—she drops the condom packet wrapper because she is overwhelmed with the need to be filled by his manly seed. Which is followed by the “Woe is me, what have we done?!” scene. Which is followed by the scene where the baby daddy kidnaps her and chains her up just as she is about to swallow a morning-after pill tablet to rid herself of the doomed-to-be-shunned baby.

After her baby daddy/kidnapper humiliates her by refusing to unchain her and wipes her bottom after she goes potty wee, he then uses his speshul powers mojo that no one else has to freeze one of her guards and shoots down another when they attempt to rescue her. This incites uncontrollable lust in the baby daddy and he realizes he MUST have Mona Lisa right there at the side of the road. So even though she is still chained up and pleads with implores him to stop, he can’t help himself— he must rape her NOW. And verily the rape is so good that Mona Lisa just can’t help but glow like the moon and have a mind-blowing orgasm.

Oh, and there is a reincarnation storyline. And, as a Queen, Mona Lisa decides to keep the baby daddy’s parents mother and father, but puts the baby daddy and his brother up for auction to the other Queens. Also, to help control her bloodlust, she gets married to a mate that loves her and wants to protect [ARGH! P-word again] keep her safe, and oh, yeah… understands that she must continue to boink the other men she loves, too.

I don’t know. Maybe the award winning Sunny herself has cured me of my disturbing sickness. If she’s not even going to bother to write good LKH fanfic anymore, I just MIGHT be able to stop reading these damn books.

So, how do I grade this? If you’ve never read Anne Bishop or Laurell Hamilton [arches her eyebrow of doom at Sandy], you will sadly think the Monère series (and its spin-off, Lucinda: the Demon Princess Chronicles series) are wonderfully creative and original. But this latest book, Mona Lisa Craving? Meh… not so much.

Grade: C+

Read the summary.
Read an excerpt.

Now Syb, what’s all this fuss about banning P-words? Why would you not want me to use P-words? There are some perfectly good P-words that I find quite useful. Where would we be without P-words like pretentious, and puke, and poop? And how can I possibly be expected to review Romance books without plots and penises? What could you possibly have against penises? [fistslam] Why, recently the folks over at Dear Author and the Smart Bitches have had P-words (and black-footed ferrets) tossed about willy-nilly all over their sites! So, it just makes no sense to me that… whatWhatWHAT?!

…not all of them? … just the one?

… nevermind.

With apologies to Gilda and Emily… and Teddypig who recently reminded us what we lost.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Think the Oscars or Grammies for audio books. [Ed. (a.k.a. Gwen): Phil Gigante's luscious voice is nominated!  Read on...]

From the APA website:

“APA ANNOUNCES THE AUDIES® FINALISTS IN 29 CATEGORIES – Winners to be Announced at Audies Gala in Los Angeles

The Audio Publishers Association (APA) will host The Audies®, awards for excellence in audiobooks, on May 30, 2008 in Los Angeles, California. The winners will be announced at a gala celebration held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel.

As the only awards program in the United States devoted entirely to honoring spoken word entertainment, The Audies® gala brings together performers, authors, producers, publishers and media to celebrate the best of the 2007 audiobook publishing year.

Categories for judges’ consideration included Fiction, Non-Fiction, Inspirational/Faith-Based Fiction, Multi-Voiced Performance, Romance, Science Fiction, Spanish Language and much more, including a newly created Achievement in Abridgement category.”

Some nominations that might be of particular interest to TGTBTU fans (to see a pdf of all the nominees, click here):

Children’s Titles, Ages 12 +

• Bloody Jack by L.M. Meyer, narrated by Katherine Kellgren, published by Listen & Live Audio
• InterWorld by Neil Gaiman, narrated by Christopher Evan Welch, published by HarperAudio
• A Mango Shaped Space by Wendy Mass, narrated by Danielle Ferland, published by Recorded Books
• M Is for Magic by Neil Gaiman, narrated by Neil Gaiman, published by HarperAudio
• Slam by Nick Hornby, narrated by Nicholas Hoult, published by Penguin Audio

Romance

• Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante, published by Brilliance Audio
• Consequences by Penelope Lively, narrated by Josephine Bailey, published by Tantor Media, Inc.
• Everlasting by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, narrated by Xanthe Elbrick, published by HarperAudio
• On Tall Pine Lake by Dorothy Garlock, narrated by Anna Fields, published by BBC Audiobooks America
• Natural Born Charmer by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, narrated by Anna Fields, published by HarperAudio
• Sugar Daddy by Lisa Kleypas, narrated by Jeannie Stith, published by Brilliance Audio

Science Fiction

• The Draco Tavern by Larry Niven, narrated by Tom Weiner, published by Blackstone Audio Inc.
• Dune by Frank Herbert, narrated by Scott Brick, Simon Vance and a full cast, published by Macmillan Audio
• The Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney, narrated by Kristoffer Tabori, published by Blackstone Audio Inc.
• Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Ravens of Avalon by Diana L. Paxson, narrated by Lorna Raver, published by Tantor Media, Inc.
• Selections from Dreamsongs 1: Fan Fiction and Sci-Fi from Martin’s Early Years: Unabridged Selections by George R.R. Martin, narrated by Claudia Black, Mark Bramhall, Scott Brick, Roy Dotrice, Kim Mai Guest, Kirby Heyborne, and Adrian Paul, published by Random House Audio

Thriller/Suspense

• Daddy’s Girl by Lisa Scottoline, narrated by Barbara Rosenblat, published by HarperAudio
• Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill, narrated by Stephen Lang, published by HarperAudio
• The Judas Strain by James Rollins, narrated by Peter Jay Fernandez, published by HarperAudio
• No Time for Goodbye by Linwood Barclay, narrated by Christopher Lane, published by Brilliance Audio
• The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva, narrated by Phil Gigante, published by Brilliance Audio
• What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman, narrated by Linda Emond, published by HarperAudio

And yes, for those of you that did not notice, narrator Phil Gigante IS nominated in two different categories… cuz he’s just that freakin’ good. Of course, I think he was robbed and ALL his KMM Highlander’s audio books should have been nominated. *sniff*

…er… I mean… Congratulations and Good Luck to ALL the nominees!

BTW, I’m listening to Phil right now in KMM’s Kiss of the Highlander and let me tell you, it’s the best yet! Kiss better sweep the Audies NEXT year or I might send Gwen over to have a talk with those APA folks!

Bev(QB)’s review of Ensnared by Innocence by Larissa Lyons
Paranormal historical eNovella published 23 Jan 08 by Ellora’s Cave

Regency, Shapeshifter, Spicy (EC rating= S-ensuous). Was there any doubt that I would succumb to the lure of this EC blurb?

But, I’m glad I did.

Oh, don’t get me wrong– there ARE problems in this novella. I’ve a few minor quibbles that would amount to nit-picking if I brought them up. And, unfortunately, two fairly major plot points just disappear at the end without satisfactory resolution while another one suddenly pops up without any prior hints that it existed.

However, Lyons did a tremendous job of making me believe that these two people and their interactions were really part of the Regency period. I have enormous respect for any author that not only sets out to write a story in an historical setting, but then obviously does her homework to make her story as authentic feeling as possible (think Robin Schone’s Victorian period historicals).

Granted, everything I know about England’s Regency period I learned from reading Romance books. So I’m sure one of you history buffs will see things that I didn’t. [*coughLynneConnellycough*] But it FELT more period-appropriate to me than many of the other Regency stories I’ve read. From the conversations peppered with period appropriate “slang” [Gwen, be warned… there’s CUNNY aplenty in this book ]…

Her fingers returned to his sleeve. “You don’t understand.”

“Damn right I don’t. How you could even contemplate the possibility of propositioning that rakeshame is beyond me. He’s an unconscionable mundungus of a man, certainly not someone like yourself—”

… to their names- Erasmus and Francine- to the fact that Erasmus was dressed in the height of fashion rather than as a dashing rake who bucks the trend as we usually see in Regencies.

She could just make out the casual fall of his overlong hair, the slash of black side whiskers against his well-defined jaw, the barely discernible curve of his lips, almost lost in the burgeoning folds of his neckcloth, now that he’d bowed his head

In addition, Lyons offered an interesting explanation for the source of the family’s lion-shifter curse (that’s not a spoiler, the cover gives it away). There are other male family members also afflicted and I’m hoping Lyons will be writing their stories, too. BTW, the ménage scene mentioned in the blurb is fairly tame, but it is… odd.

I’m recommending this book to Regency period historical fans because that is really the main emphasis. The paranormal element is not the main focus, but rather an interesting twist on the standard faux engagement Regency story.

With her obvious devotion to historical detail, I think Larissa Lyons is an author to watch.

Grade: B-

From Ellora’s Cave:
Lord Blakely’s carnal appetites lean toward experienced women, the type who accommodate his need for frequent — and frequently wild — sex.

So when Lady Francine, an alluring innocent if he ever saw one, outrageously requests he pose as her betrothed, he knows he should refuse. But he can’t stop himself from participating in her outlandish scheme, especially when she adds one very unexpected, enticing element to her offer — herself.

Unfortunately, it’s fast approaching the time of year when Lord Blakely loses all control and turns into a raging beast. If Lady Francine is unable satisfy his sexual appetites, will he be forced to reveal his untamed side?

Reader Advisory: This love story between two people contains one ménage scene.

Read an excerpt.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Kiss of the Highlander by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante
Historical Fantasy Audio Book released 20 Jan 08 by Brilliance Audio

This is the fourth audio book release in KMM’s Highlanders series and centers on Drustan MacKelter and Gwen Cassidy. Containing both paranormal and fantasy (fae) elements, “Kiss” is set, through time travel, in historic and modern day Scotland. This is a stand alone story, so it is not necessary to be familiar with the previous books in the series to enjoy this one, but, trust me, you’re going to want them all!

If you are a fan of KMM’s Fever series, listen for Fever clues throughout the Highlander books. “Kiss” is the second book with a direct link to the later series (The Hallows appear in book 3, The Highlander’s Touch), and the first of the MacKelter books (at least one, probably two, Mackelters show up in Bloodfever). It’s fascinating to revisit all the Highlander fae lore that eventually comes together to spawn the complex Fever books.

Now, setting all that aside, the most compelling reason (besides my all-time favorite Nathan Kamp cover pic) to buy this (and all the rest of the series) in audio format is what narrator Phil Gigante does for your ears– and other body parts that are directly or indirectly attached to them. I’m not ashamed to admit that listening to Gigante’s Scottish brogue has become an addiction and an obsession for me.

Listen to a summary of the book followed by a sample of Gigante’s narration here. And oh, what a shiver-worthy sample it is!

Click here to sample the rest of the Highlander series audio books.

Book 5, The Dark Highlander, will be released in March 2008, followed by book 6, The Immortal Highlander, in May 2008.

Go. Buy. Or borrow from your library. Audio books don’t get any better than these!

Bev(QB)’s review of Destiny’s Warrior by Heather Waters
Historical fantasy published 4 December 2007 by Berkley Sensation

Waters has created a refreshingly different hero in Gavin. He’s not completely confident in his ability to lead his clan as Laird and admits that he’s still learning and proving himself. Yes, you read that right—a Scottish Laird that admits he doesn’t know everything!

And when he must rely on Nakkole to lead him into his other life as the Prince of the Fae, he doesn’t balk at following a woman.

With Water’s interesting world building, characters, and plot twists, Destiny’s Warrior was an enjoyable read with a smile-worthy HEA. I suspect she has plans to write more stories in this world since she has started an encyclopedia of the characters.

This is the second Heather Water’s book I’ve read (the first, The Devil’s Possession, is unrelated to this one) and I think she’s an author worth keeping an eye on. She takes what could be formulaic stories and characters and gives them her own fresh spin, particularly her heroes.

Grade: B-

From the back cover:

A love more powerful than magic.

Laird Gavin McCain, heir to the throne of fae, was raised as a human in order to preserve his life. Now, with his location discovered, Nakkole, a female guardian, is sent to protect him—and return him to the home he never knew…

But Gavin was raised not to believe in such things, and Nakkole must come to his aid in disguise. Convincing him of his dormant faery powers should prove a challenging task—especially when the very air seems clouded by the undeniable attraction they feel for each other.

And when an attempt on his life lands Gavin in a dream-like world, they discover their destinies entwined. While he must save the kingdom, she carries its future…

Read an excerpt.

Watch the video trailer.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Teddypig and Bev(QB)’s review of The Perfect Cover by Claire Thompson
Contemporary gay romance ebook released by Ellora’s Cave 26 Dec 07

So what happens when an opinionated, Big City Gay Man with a deliciously wicked sense of humor teams up with an opinionated, pervy, suburban Ohio soccer Mom to dish about a Gay Romance written by a female author?

Bev(QB): Although I’m sure most authors will say they don’t write for a specific audience, the fact is that a large percentage of gay ROMANCES (as opposed to gay erotica) are written by women and read by straight women. But I’ve also heard that these same romances are gaining an audience within the gay community because a lot of gay men want to read romance, not just sex. So, Teddy, is that an Urban Legend?

Teddypig: Well Bev, I just read somewhere about this concept of “exploitive MM Romances” and how we Gay guys are getting used and abused by Straight women writers misrepresenting us to the general Straight women Romance reading populace as horny devils willing to have sex at a the drop of the soap. My response was… and? You have a problem with that? What gave you the first clue that maybe, because we are already rebelling against mainstream society’s view of sexuality, we might be kinda more likely to explore this brave new world of hot man on man action at any and every given opportunity provided us? Now I try not to over generalize but, um… yeah that is usually the way it works out.

Anyway, kidding aside, I think it is great women writers are exploring the members of another culture they have something in common with. Dating, putting up with, and unfortunately, sometimes even loving those primitive hard headed creatures known as MEN — also known as pigs or jerks on occasion. So here’s to more exploiting Ladies!

Bev(QB): Yeah, something in common– that makes sense. I don’t read lesbian fiction because I’m not attracted to other women, so I can’t relate to anyone in the story. With gay male romances, however, it’s hardly a stretch to identify with the attraction for the male characters. Plus, particularly in contemporary romance stories, gay relationships have a whole different dynamic than straight romances. The leads are usually friends and there is none of that alpha asshole angst that we get in so many male/female stories. Maybe I’m generalizing, but the gay romance stories often come closer to mirroring the dynamics in real life STRAIGHT relationships.

But what about The Perfect Cover? Did Claire Thompson nail it [hee] for you

Teddypig: I have to admit I really tried to hate this eBook. The damn thing starts with the lamest setup EVA. There is this Club Med style Gay resort out on some tropical island that all these gor-jesus Gay men all work at during the winter and swap spit. Sorta like Palm Springs but without all the wrinkles and with non-chlorinated water surrounding it.

First off we are introduced to Ryan Weston, perfectly long hair, perfectly muscled body, and perfectly STRAIGHT. Then we switch over and meet Sean Evans, perfectly… Oh here let me show you…

Sean had honey blond hair streaked with thick swaths of bleached gold from his hours in the sun. His eyes were a disarmingly pale blue, or so a lover had once told him, the contrast to his tan face making them look even bluer. He wasn’t especially tall, maybe five feet ten inches, but every bit of him was solid muscle. He didn’t think of himself in terms of being good-looking or not. It didn’t occur to him.

Yeah right, maybe it did not occur to him, but the reader just spent a whole paragraph reviewing how good looking he is in his own damn point of view. So, I started gearing up early for the snarkfest to come. Hey, it’s a dirty job, but since Mrs Giggles swore off snark, someone has to do it.

Bev(QB): Yeah, but ya gotta admit the “visuals” were stunning, right? Picture Travis Fimmel (in his Tarzan days) bumpin’ uglies with… well… Travis Fimmel.

For me, the “snark alert” moment came when Ryan tried on his work attire– a Speedo– and then walked into Sean’s bedroom and asked him how it looked. No straight man in the history of the world, would EVER ask another man that question! And to invite a *gasp* GAY MAN to peruse his nearly naked body?! Just wouldn’t happen. Ryan is comfortable being on an island of gay men hitting on him (no straight man’s homophobia?!), he’s had fantasies about being with another man, and he’s in effect asking a buddy “Do these make my ass look big?”, but he considers himself completely straight?! Yeah, by that point, I had visions of snark dancing in my head too, Teddy.

Teddypig: Well Bev, Sean gets the hots immediately for Ryan because it is the Tru Lurve. Then Ryan plays the old “I’m Straight” card. Despite his poor crushed Gay heart, Sean agrees to keep Ryan’s secret (baby) and they plan a deception to keep Ryan’s sweet virginal ass on Gay Sex Island by pretending to be a couple in Tru Lurve. HOW CONVENIENT! In real life Teddypig is sitting there cringing in his seat listing all of the reasons he would be running away from the confused Straight boy:

• Lack of Gay experience and knowing himself.
• Bad sex.
• Temptation to have sex with every Gay loser he meets.
• BAD sex.
• Inability to place value in a real relationship with another guy.
• BAD SEX!

Bev(QB): “I didn’t even know I was gay!” is one of my favorite themes in gay romances. However, I think in the back of my mind I always assumed it was just a fantasy dreamt up by female authors. But Thompson turned this into a completely believable story for me when she had Sean explain to Ryan how he could be gay or bisexual and not realize it. Then Ryan internalized what Sean said and starting putting the pieces together.

Teddypig: Bev my rule of thumb is, dump the genders and look at what is going on under the hood. In this case we’ve got a Straight guy and a Gay guy. That equates in Romance to the Barbara Cartland, wilting virgin with experienced horny suitor story. YAWN! [Bev(QB): Hey! I just said I LOVE those stories!]

I was pleasantly surprised though because after all those things I could quickly list as reasons for NOT getting involved with Straight guys who are learning they are Gay, Claire Thompson thought these through and actually addressed them one by one in the story.

Bev(QB): Exactly, Teddy. Another author would simply have used Ryan’s curiosity after watching all the gay men together at the resort to trigger his “switch.” But Thompson surprised me with her logical, intelligent arguments that sexuality is not black or white but rather shades of grey (or should that be described as the Colors of the Rainbow?).

Overall, I thought it was a sweet romance story with some flashes of intelligent insight that outweighed the snarktacular aspects. Odd that there were surprisingly few erotic scenes, though, when you consider this is the same Claire Thompson who writes all those BDSM stories.

Teddypig: I totally agree, it was sweet Bev. Maybe Scott & Scott, two Gay men who write The Gay Romance over at Loose-Id, should pick this book up to see how to do this type of Gay Romance without relying on their typical blah “Twinkies in Love” characters.

Don’t get me wrong though, these characters were too perfect. The place was too perfect. The Romance is too perfect. Everything is too, too perfect. If Claire wanted a perfect score from me she should have had them both fail in a couple of understandable ways that would show them being human and not Ken Dolls in Speedos. Intelligent and insightful does come to mind in thinking about this story and the cautious dance described. So that kicks this up a grade automatically for me despite the other flaws.

I will be reading your next Gay Romance, Claire, so dirty it up a bit, will you?

Exploit On Girl Friend!

Teddypig’s Grade: B

Bev(QB)’s Grade: B

Read the Ellora’s Cave summary.

Read an excerpt.

Read more from Teddypig at The Naughty Bits.

Read more from Bev(QB) at Cubie’s Confections.

Bev(QB)’s review of The Devil’s Possession by Heather Waters
Historical paranormal romance published 7 Aug 07 by Berkley Sensation

The one thing that stands out in this book is that Draven is NOT an all-knowing, all-powerful alpha. He’s vulnerable, tortured, and lacking in confidence. And he craves Faith’s lightness like a dying man in the desert craves water. She makes him look at himself and his magical gifts as a positive gift from God rather than a mark of the Devil as had always been beaten into him.

I had a couple of problems with the book, however. I just couldn’t understand why Faith preferred that her new husband believe she had a lover who abandoned her rather than letting him know she was raped. And I don’t understand the reasoning of the “family friend” who stayed uninvolved throughout Draven’s life when even a few words from him could have served as a lifeline for Draven.

Overall, though, The Devil’s Possession, was a satisfying, lovely redemption story with some plot elements and characters that were fresh and unique.

Grade: B-

From the Back Cover:

She was a woman called to lead

Ordinarily, women do not become Highland chieftains. But Faith Maitland is no ordinary woman- until a violent encounter in the forest crushes her courage and leaves her pregnant. And now, because no clan will accept a sullied woman, she must find a sire for her bastard…

He was a man they called a witch

When Faith names Draven the Devil as the father of her child, she thinks she is blaming a dead man. Instead, her accusation halts his execution for witchery. When he is released from the stake to the Maitlands’ custody, Faith realizes that she has betrothed herself to a silent man with frightening powers…

Theirs was a devil’s bargain

Draven has no reason to relish his escape, having long since wearied of the fear and hate that has been his lot. Yet he finds himself unable to renounce Faith and expose her to the same shame. Fascinated by her beauty and strength, Draven is drawn to Faith even as she is warmed by his tenderness. But their growing trust will be tested by the threat of true evil…

Read an excerpt.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Bev(QB)’s review of At Love’s Command (Brothers in Arms, Book 4) by Samantha Kane
Erotic historical ebook published 12 Dec 2007 by Ellora’s Cave

As much as I loved the previous books in this series, they almost pale in comparison to At Love’s Command.

Despite a couple of minor issues I had with two secondary characters, Kane’s writing has matured exponentially with this rich, exquisite, multi-dimensional story. Each of the men reminisces about their history together which makes their bond all the more believable and allows us to see their current situation from both viewpoints. And watching Sophie bloom and discover her true personality and sexuality is a delightful journey. Kane weaves Ian’s dreams of a loving triad, Sophie’s dreams of freedom, and Derek’s cynicism together and gradually a pattern of mutual respect and caring starts to appear. As with the previous books, Kane’s mastery of erotic scenes allows us to perceive each erotic act as unique to this set of participants.

One of the joys of having a voice in Romancelandia is that I have a platform which allows me to champion authors and books that I consider “my” squee-worthy discoveries. Samantha Kane is a shining example of the gems offered by ePubs at their very best. As it stands now, NY would never touch her bisexual storylines, yet I assert that At Love’s Command deserves to be front and center on the mass market new releases display at every major bookstore.

Grade: A+

     Summary: A child when they were betrothed, Sophia Middleton has been waiting twelve years for Ian Witherspoon to return and marry her. Preyed upon by her vicious father and older brother, Sophie longs for Ian to rescue her.

     Ian Witherspoon and Derek Knightly became best friends during the Peninsular War, and returned as lovers. Two more years pass before the desire for a wife and children prompts Ian to recall his little fiance. Ian is determined to make a marriage work between the three of them. Derek opposes the marriage despite Ian’s determination, but how long will he be able to resist love’s command?

     Sophie’s vulnerability hides a core of strength and the combination enthralls and seduces both men. An apt pupil, Sophie learns trust and passion from Ian, and Derek tutors her in the ecstasy of surrender. Love will conquer their fears as they fight those who would tear them apart,

     Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Bev(QB)’s review of Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 1) by Jeaniene Frost
Paranormal Romance published by Avon 30 October 2007

Halfway to the Grave is a hybrid of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Since I know it’s a flashpoint for romance purists, I’ll tell you up front that it has an urban fantasy ending. But, for those that felt cheated by the ending of Cameron Dean’s Candace Steele trilogy (which I enjoyed immensely), I’ve included a message from Jeaniene Frost’s website:

Author’s note about the Night Huntress series: HALFWAY TO THE GRAVE is the first book in an urban fantasy romance series with half-vampire heroine Cat Crawfield. My heroine and hero have a difficult road ahead of them and they will have to work hard to earn their HEA, so their story isn’t over with the first book. Hope you come along for the ride!

So, is this series worth your investment? OH YEAH! Once I picked it up, there was no putting it down until I finished. The worst thing I can say about it is that book 2, One Foot in the Grave, won’t be released until April 2008!

Cat was conceived when her mother was raped by a vampire. As her odd “differences” became apparent, Cat’s less than affectionate (and possibly not altogether sane) mother insisted she not let anyone find out and refused to talk about them. It wasn’t until Cat was 16 that her mother finally told her the truth and then, with her mother’s encouragement, Cat decided to devote her life to finding and killing vampires. Although she often resents her mother’s pressure to continue the killings, she craves her mother’s approval and doesn’t stop because she’s finally making her Mama proud.

Through trial and error, she becomes a bad-ass vamp executioner. Or so she thinks. Turns out it was her half-vamp abilities combined with the dumb luck of only luring young vamps to their death. Her luck runs out when she meets Bones, an old vamp who hunts other vampires as an occupation. One well placed punch from him takes her out of the game and into his dangerous captivity.

Once he believes she isn’t working for one of his many enemies, Bones realizes that Cat could be very useful as his bounty hunter protege, and offers her a deal– if she’ll let him train her to be his partner, he’ll teach her what she needs to know to kill vamps and help her find the vamp who fathered her.

What follows is the boot camp from hell. Bones pulls no punches, and systematically beats the daylight [hee] out of Cat trying to prepare her for the dangers of hunting the older and truly dangerous vamps that he regularly hunts. But in the process, he finds himself more and more fascinated with her.

To Cat, vampires are evil creatures that must all die. Period. But she’ll let this one live. For now. At least until he teaches her everything she needs to know about vampires.

The gradual development of the relationship between Cat and Bones is fascinating to read. In addition to struggling with her own beliefs about vamps, Cat is also aware that her mother will turn her back on her if she finds out that she not only hasn’t killed Bones, but is working with him! Combine all that with her awkward history with men, and Cat feels torn apart and confused by the sexual tension between her and Bones.

This book was also engrossing because Cat and Bones aren’t perfect. They don’t always win. Things doesn’t always go their way. They make mistakes. People, including those they care about, die. I hope Frost continues that with book 2, because the story has the potential to make them too perfect and that would ruin the appeal of both the characters and the story.

The primary reason I’m not giving this book a higher grade is because I don’t think it will appeal to readers who aren’t already paranormal romance AND urban fantasy fans. (see A Duckie’s Guide to Romance) After all, the hero DOES beat the heroine unconscious… a LOT!

But for you fans of the genre that still aren’t convinced, read the summary and chapter 1 here. No really, GO READ IT!

Grade: B+

Bev(QB)’s review of Beyond the Dark (Anthology) by Angela Knight, Emma Holly, Lora Leigh, and Diane Whiteside
Paranormal romance published by Berkley Sensations 4 Dec 07

First of all, if you aren’t familiar with these authors, you should be aware that this book should have been labeled as paranormal EROTIC romance. I suppose it could be argued that it’s implicit on the back cover with “Four bestselling authors of paranormal romance and erotic thrills…” But I’m surprised it wasn’t explicitly stated somewhere. 

From the inside cover:

“What can you feel in the dark?”
“How far are you willing to go beyond it?”

Dragon Dance by Angela Knight

“Angela Knight does it– in the psychic realm of a woman attuned to the touch of strangers– and the powerful temptations of a seductive and mysterious protector.”

Someone call Marvel! There’s been a mini-trend lately to adapt romances into comic books. Well, Angela Knight’s novella has comic book-like superheroes adapted into novella form. I don’t think I’d like it as much in full length novel format, but in this shorter form it’s fun, sexy and quirky. Explaining it would spoil all your reading fun.

Queen of All She Surveys by Emma Holly

“Emma Holly does it– in the fantastic demon world where a powerful queen rules– until she commits the sin of falling in love with the handsome son of her worst enemy.”

If you aren’t already familiar with Emma Holly’s demon series, there is one erotic scene in QoASS that will leave you scratching your head and saying “WTF was that extra bit all about?!” [Hint: what he THINKS it might be is correct and it only appears in mated royals.] But for those that do read the series, I think this might be the best and most memorable one. The full length books tend to drag a bit from an overload of details, but this erotic novella was tight and well-written. Except for when Mem declares “I itch… back there”. EEWWW! I half expected Tou to offer him the demon version of Preparation H or douse him with a de-worming potion. A need, a burning need, an aching emptiness, surely there was another term Holly could have used besides I ITCH! GAK!

In a Wolf’s Embrace by Lora Leigh

“Lora Leigh does it– in the domain of a strange Breed, part man, part wolf, on the hunt for the woman he craves– and needs– to fulfill a hunger clawing at him from within.”

Curious what Lora Leigh’s Breeds series is all about? IaWE is an excellent way to find out. Since Matthias, a knotty [hee] Wolf Breed, wants grace to understand exactly what she’s getting into before they are overwhelmed by Mating Heat, and since he first has to make her understand the Breeds history so she’ll let go of her horror at witnessing him execute someone she considered a harmless old man, readers get a condensed summary of the Breed series. This is a sizzling erotic romance with a smile-worthy HEA.

Caught by the Tides by Dianne Whiteside

“Diane Whiteside does it– in an alternative universe of regency magic where two lovers are threatened by a vicious mage and swept up in a turbulent war off the Cornish cliffs.”

Dianne Whiteside’s CbtT should have worked. Paranormal plus Regency plus erotic romance usually makes me a happy reader. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t as crisply written as the other three novellas. But in all fairness, I’m not that big a fan of stories whose plots rely almost exclusively on magic. Combine that with underdeveloped characters and erotic scenes with a surprising lack of heat (from the author of The Switch?!), and I never quite connected with this one.

Overall Grade: B+

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

We here in Romancelandia are complete series addicts. Once an author writes a well received book, her fans immediately start clamoring for more stories set in the same world. I think it would be correct to state that no two Romancelandians will ever have the exact same entries on their own Favorite Series list. 

Eclectic and fodder for debate, these are the series that leap to mind when I’m asked what my favorite reads are. The order I’ve listed them in is approximate as my preferences change based on my mood and what feels right at the time.

Bev(QB)’s All Time Favorite Book Series

1. Merry Gentry series by Laurell K. Hamilton. (Ballantine Books) This complex fantasy/urban fantasy showcases Hamilton’s unparalleled world building expertise. (see Review: A Lick of Frost)

2. Fever series by Karen Marie Moning. (Delacorte Press) I consider this fantasy/urban fantasy to be a master’s class in the use of first person POV. Brilliant.

3. Anita Blake Vampire Hunter series by Laurell K. Hamilton. (Berkley) Hamilton is one of the godmothers of what is now referred to as urban fantasy. Unlike most long-running series, I’ve known people to jump in this one – at any point with no problems. I started at book 9, Obsidian Butterfly, then went back and read them all – several times.

4. The Cynsters, particularly the Bar Cynsters (books 1-6) by Stephanie Laurens. (Avon) The crème de la crème of Regency era historical romances. In fact, I consider book 1, Devil’s Bride, to be closer to perfection than any other romance I’ve ever read. Its only glaring flaw is that unfortunate back cover pic (roll over the original cover in the link to see it). What were they thinking?!

5. Skye O’Malley saga by Bertrice Small. (Ballantine Books) The life and loves of an extraordinary woman and her family during the reign of Elizabeth Tudor. To read a Bertrice Small book is to instantly and completely be absorbed into the rich tapestry of the tastes, sounds, sights and lives she weaves together.

6. Breeds series by Lora Leigh(Ellora’s Cave and Berkley). When someone says they are new to ebooks, I recommend they start with this series. No one writes sexual tension and characters consumed by unquenchable need better than Lora Leigh. The intense erotic scenes are woven into the story of a not-quite-human species as they overcome the horrors of their past, and begin a journey to understand themselves as a species and as individuals, while also striving to find love and acceptance.

7. The Highlanders series by Karen Marie Moning. (Jove and Dell) Although they were always a highly enjoyable auto-buy for me, it is the audio books (with Phil Gigante’s swoon-worthy narration) that earn this series a permanent place on my list. (see Aural Pleasures 103)

8. The World of Hetar by Bertrice Small. (HQN Books) In this epic fantasy, Ms Small has created a world that is in some ways recognizable, yet vastly different from our own. Without the constraint of historical fact, she allowed her muse free rein to create this lusty, sweeping saga.

9. Jarheads by Sean Michael. (Torquere and Fictionwise) Sean Michael has a unique voice. He doesn’t give us much physical description of his characters, but somehow paints an emotional picture. We get to know them through their words and actions and I get completely caught up in the lives of these lovable and loving men. Rigger, whom I adore, is the heart and soul of the series and someone I’d like to count as a good friend in real life. One caveat though – there were times when even I said, “Enough with the sex, already! Get on with the story!”

10. The Donovan series by Elizabeth Lowell. (Avon) Still tapping my foot waiting for the rest of this contemporary romantic suspense series – including a look back at the elder Donovan’s love story. You know, I do believe I’m overdue for a re-read!

11. Brothers in Arms by Samantha Kane(Ellora’s Cave). The newest addition to my list. The erotic scenes in these Regency period bisexual manage stories are written in exquisite, excruciatingly drawn out detail. And Kane manages to make each scene feel completely unique to each triad.

12. What series will someday claim this last spot on my list? Is it a series I’ve already started? Maybe Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series or Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series. A Gentleman’s Wager by Madelynne Ellis is already on my single title favorites list, but with its upcoming sequels and spin-off, will it land on my series list, too? Or maybe my next favorite series is waiting out there for me to discover it. Maybe it’s not even been written yet and is being nurtured by a muse waiting to bestow it on some worthy author.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Aural Pleasures 103 – “What” Audio Books are Recommended

In Aural Pleasures 101, we looked at the “Why” and “Where” to buy audio books. In Aural Pleasures 102, we shared advice on “How” to select audio books. So now, for the “What” to buy. Here are a few of my recommendations (audio sample links provided when available, click the cover pics to go to each book’s Amazon page):

Within the Romance genre, most narrators will be female, so I highly recommend that Aural Pleasure novices who are also historical romance fans start with The Indiscretion by Judith Ivory (click to sample Audible.com audio), narrated by Barbara Rosenblat (pictured at right). This Victorian era “lady and the cowboy” story would be a light, enjoyable read on its own, but Rosenblat elevates it by breathing life into Liddy and Sam. She narrates the book in a nondescript American accent, then gives Liddy an upper class British accent that is somehow filled with humor, vulnerability, and playfulness. And the fact that a woman is doing Sam’s voice was lost to me in seconds because his mumbly Texas drawl IS Sam. I think I smiled through most of this audio book. What a JOY this was to listen to! But to illustrate the points I made in Aural Pleasures 102, Rosenblat is also the narrator for Katie MacAlister’s Light My Fire (Aisling Grey series). Even though I ADORED her in The Indiscretion, I listened to the sample and I just don’t think her voice “fits” the MacAlister series as well (could I request that all you rabid Rosenblat fans PLEASE throw only soft objects at me?)

For multiple eargasms, pick up The Highlander series by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante. So far, the first three have been released – Beyond the Highland Mist (click for sample), To Tame a Highland Warrior (click for sample), and The Highlander’s Touch (Nov 20, 2007)- with the rest apparently to be released in sequence at two month intervals. Phil Gigante does such a good job with the female voices that I was quickly no longer aware that the narrator was a man. And what he does for the male voices… *shiver*… his different Scottish brogues gave me aural eargasm after eargasm! What an amazing talent Gigante is! My only caveat is that I seem to hit the back track button A LOT when listening to Gigante’s narration. Oh, it’s not HIS fault. Well, not really. It’s just that sometimes I get so swept away by HOW his swoonworthy character voices sound, that I forget to pay attention to WHAT they’re saying! (FYI: Phil Gigante is also the narrator for the first book in Nora Roberts’ new Sign of Seven Trilogy, Blood Brothers)

The last three books in Charlaine Harris’ Southern Vampire series (Sookie Stackhouse) are narrated by Johanna Parker: Book 5, Dead as a Doornail (click for sample), Book 6, Definitely Dead (click for sample), and Book 7, All Together Dead (click for sample). This is a series that I initially didn’t care for because it moved too slow for me in print form. But now I can’t wait for each new release because Johanna Parker brings Sookie Stackhouse to Southern Fried life! I find myself stopping and just floating along with her smooth, small town Louisiana drawl filled with Sookie’s vulnerability and strength. Then she changes not only the pitch and tone, but also the cadence of her narration to bring all the characters in Sookie’s world to life. I notice that Book 1, Dead Until Dark (click for sample), has recently been released in audio, so I hope that bodes well for the release of all the earlier books in audio format, too.

As with the Harris’ series, I never quite heard the voice of Queen Betsy right in my head. The heroine of MaryJanice Davidson’s Undead series came across as a shallow bit of fluff to me. But thanks to narrator Nancy Wu I realized that Betsy’s irreverent snark is not to be missed (and wait till you hear Tina). All six books are available through Audible.com (click to sample).

I mentioned in Aural Pleasures 102 that “since an audio book forces the listener to slow down and read at the narrator’s pace, you will almost always discover things you never noticed before or see scenes in a different light when listening to a favorite book in audio format.” I have found that, even after multiple readings of Laurell K. Hamilton’s Merry Gentry series and Karen Marie Moning’s Fever series, I ALWAYS have new insights after listening to the audio books.

    Brilliance Audio produces Hamilton’s Merry Gentry series, and the narrator, Laural Merlington, does a heroic job of creating distinctive voices for all the characters. I particularly love the hint of Irish brogue she injects into Doyle’s voice. I’ve read the books multiple times, but I NEVER fail to catch something new every time I listen to the audio books. (click to sample Brilliance Audio)

Brilliance also produces Moning’s Fever series audio, narrated by Joyce Bean who, to my ears, has a voice a bit too mature for our heroine. And DOH! Why was I so discombobulated with her Southern accent? Mac IS Southern, yet I never heard it in my head when I read the book. When Darkfever was first released in print, I read it, turned it over, and immediately read it a second time. Then I splurged and downloaded this one from AudioBookStandDL (see Aural Pleasures 101). In this case, the story was so engrossing that it overcame my initial awkward reactions to the narrator. And it is amazing how much more I STILL got out of the audio even though I had just read the print book twice! (click to sample Brilliance Audio)

Virgin Books Limited produces the Black Lace (yes THAT Black Lace– erotica for women) audio books (click to sample Audible.com audio). One of my all-time favorite books is A Gentlemen’s Wager by Madelynne Ellis (to be re-released in print with this luscious new cover early next year followed by the long awaited sequel, Phantasmagoria), but the audio book didn’t quite live up to my expectations. To my Midwest American ear, the narrator, Betsy Garden, sounded too contemporary (the book is set in Georgian England) and did not create the distinctive character voices I’ve come to expect. So I couldn’t settle into the audio until I just accepted her narration as a Joan Collins or a Victoria Beckham reading the book out loud. [hee] Nevertheless, I STILL managed to view a couple of scenes in a new light. It wasn’t truly disappointing, I just think it was a missed opportunity to bring even more dimension to a story that contains one of the most deliciously complex characters (Vaughan) I’ve ever read (click to sample AGW).

And the Dud Duck Award goes to…

The Raintree Trilogy (Inferno, Haunted, Sanctuary), Silhouette Nocturnes published by Harlequin Enterprises LTD. The trilogy is an enjoyable, multi-author (Linda Howard, Linda Winstead Jones, Beverly Barton), three-book story that was ruined by a bad narrator/story “fit.” Narrator Stefan Rudnicki pairs up with a different female co-narrator in each book (Hillary Huber, Theo McKell, Gabrielle de Cuir). I thought it was just a matter of acclimating myself to his style and, when Audible.com had a sale, I bought the last two books before I was finished with the first one. BIG mistake. First of all, Stefan Rudnicki should never, EVER, attempt a female voice again– he just sounds like he’s mocking women. And second, by the time I hit book three, I was gnashing my teeth and tempted to just go buy the print books so I would never have to listen to his.slow.style.of.speaking.ever.again. GAK! Buy these books in print or ebook only! (click to sample Audible.com audio… if you dare)

I’ve also downloaded some non-romance audio from Audible, too– including several episodes of Evening at the Improv and several episodes of Biography on A&E. These hold-up surprisingly well in audio format!

So help the current and future audio addicts out– have you listened to any audio books that elevated the original print story (they don’t necessarily have to be Romance)? Listened to any duds we should stay away from? If there’s enough interest maybe Syb will take pity on us poor desperate addicts and let us periodically have audio book rec sessions, which should make the selection process easier for all of us. C’mon and share– you KNOW you want to!

Don’t Miss:
Aural Pleasures 101 – “Why” and “Where” to buy Audio Books – Tell us why you listen to audio books.
Aural Pleasures 102 – “How” to Select an Audio Book – Come share your tips for selection.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Aural Pleasures 102 – “How” to Select an Audio Book

In Aural Pleasures 101, we looked at the “Why” and “Where” to buy audio books, so you now know that you can get them free through your local library, at a relatively low cost from eBay, and at varying costs from online sites and brick and mortar bookstores.

Now let’s look at “How” to select audio books. I think these first two “Hows” are the absolute most important:

Many audio books will be offered in Abridged and Unabridged formats. Do NOT buy the abridged format. Really, I can’t think of any reason why someone would want to listen to only bits and pieces of a story that isn’t a school assignment. Stick with the UNABRIDGED format.

Listen to a sample before buying. I can’t tell you how many books have sounded interesting until I heard the narration sample. As noted in Aural Pleasures 101, ALL audio books sold through Audible.com can be sampled, and no matter where you ultimately plan to purchase a Brilliance Audio book, head to AudioBookStand.com first to hear a sample. Unfortunately, unlike Audible.com, Brilliance/AudioBookStand doesn’t always make a sample available, so, unless you are familiar with both the narrator and the book, think twice before purchasing.

I often select audio books by browsing through the new releases by category on Audible.com. Sometimes I’ll find a book that is already on my print to-be-purchased list. Sometimes I see a book that just sounds interesting, so I’ll listen to the sample and then head out to find reviews on the print version. Other times, I’m in the mood to buy a book that I’ve read and enjoyed in the past (not necessarily an all-time favorite).

Because Brilliance audio books are more expensive, I seldom just browse AudioBookStand anymore and tend to go there only to see if a specific book is available in audio and/or to listen to sample audio. If you are just starting out though, it will be worth your time to browse and familiarize yourself with what Brilliance/AudioBookStand has to offer. As I said in Aural Pleasures 101, be sure to sign up for the Brilliance and AudioBookStand email lists so you know what’s being released and what’s on sale.

If I previously enjoyed an audio book in a series, I watch for the release of the next print book in that series because the audio version usually follows within a week or two (sometimes the same day).

Many people listening to their first audio book are surprised to discover that there is usually only one narrator. Yes, there are some multiple narrator or even multi-cast performance audio books, but those are rare, particularly in the Romance genre. The best narrators will create distinctive voices for each character and another voice for their narration. But, just like listening to someone reading aloud, the results will vary widely between narrators.

When the right narrator and the right story mesh, the result can be unbelievably engrossing and entertaining. Mediocre books can be elevated by a talented narrator. But, unfortunately, even the best of stories can be a disappointment with the wrong narrator. And, although you may have enjoyed a particular narrator in one book/series, that does not necessarily mean they are the right “fit” for a completely different book/series. So take the time to listen to that sample first!

If you are an audio book newbie, you may also be disappointed if your first audio book experience is a beloved book or series that you’ve read countless times. The characters probably already have distinctive voices in your head and it’s doubtful that the narrator will come close to meeting your expectations.

Conversely, since an audio book forces the listener to slow down and “read” at the narrator’s pace, you will almost always discover things you never noticed before or see scenes in a different light when listening to a favorite book in audio format. So consider saving those well loved books until after you’ve enjoyed a few newer selections.

Pay close attention when ordering audio books, particularly from a seller that offers multiple formats. In addition to print and ebook formats, Amazon (see the “Also Available in” box on each book’s Amazon page) will often list CD abridged, CD unabridged, cassette unabridged, MP3 CD unabridged, and expensive library editions. Sometimes there is a big difference in price between CD unabridged and MP3 CD unabridged, but usually they are fairly close. It’s up to you which format to buy. If the price is close, I usually choose CD over MP3 CD just because I don’t want to worry about compatibility issues, but I know others prefer MP3 because it means fewer CDs.

Or you could just forget about everything I just said and let someone else make your audio book selections. Sybil, uber Harlequin fangirl that she is, sent me an interesting link. Harlequin has partnered with Audible.com (see Aural Pleasures 101) to create The Monthly Harlequin AudibleListener® Plan: TWO Harlequin Blaze novels will automatically be sent to you each month for $9.95 a month. If you are a Harlequin Blaze fan, that’s a GREAT price for two audio books, but personally, I think you can easily find a better MP3 player deal than the one they are offering. Add one to your Christmas Wish List so your family can stop whining that they don’t know what to get you. Take note that they are offering a FREE Harlequin Blaze audio download of Just Dare Me by Stephanie Bond! Did I mention that it was completely FREE?! [WOOT!] If you aren’t already registered with Audible, you’ll be prompted to create an account before the audio book can be downloaded into your Audible library.

So there’s my “how” of selecting audio books. Come share your tips for making a selection. And, if you buy abridged audio books, PLEASE tell me why, because I REALLY can’t figure out why they are even offered.

Don’t miss:
Aural Pleasures 101 – “Why” and “Where” to buy Audio Books – Tell us why you listen to audio books.

Coming next:
Aural Pleasures 103 – “What” Audio Books are Recommended - Get ready to share your recommendations and warn us about the duds.

Read more from Bev at Cubie’s Confections.

Bev(QB)’s review of Riding the Wolf by Carol Lynne
Paranormal gay romance short story ebook published 31 Oct 2007 by Ellora’s Cave

This story felt rushed, which can be expected with the short Ellora’s Cave Quickie format. However, considering that their families separated Eli and Daylon fifteen years earlier, the open-armed and open-minded acceptance of their relationship by their families and most of the pack seemed too sudden. The story would have been better served by eliminating a couple of erotic scenes (Whoa! Did I just say that out loud?!) in order to explore the evolution of this acceptance.

Nevertheless, I’m recommending Riding the Wolf as a quick, hot read.

Grade: C

From EC:
After fifteen years Daylon Glover is coming home to the town of Crunup, Wisconsin. Back to the were haven founded a hundred years ago. Back to the one person who is his true mate.

Eli Withers, the soon-to-be Alpha of the Crunup pack, married young to please his Alpha father. Now, fifteen years later, he is divorced and still in love with his best friend and true mate.

When Daylon walks back into Eli’s life, how will they be able to resist the call of their inner wolves? Is the Crunup pack ready for a gay Alpha? Or will Eli once again sacrifice his and Daylon’s happiness for the sake of the pack?

Read an excerpt

Drop by my personal blog, Cubie’s Confections. It’s the often bawdy, and not always work safe, musings of a pervy old broad with opinions about books, chocolate, and eye candy (you know– the important stuff), and who is convinced that hot flashes burn away brain cells.

Share some fun and yummy Spooktacular recipes and you could win a prize to be quacked (prize packs from a publisher – but we’re not sure which yet)!

And n-o-o-o-o, it has to be more than “Melt caramels. Dip apples. Eat.” You can share as many recipes as you want, but only one entry per person. Since the only fair way to judge them would be to make and eat them all, I’ll do a random drawing from all eligible recipes shared in the comments for this post. If you’ve already tried any of the recipes entered, feel free to give it your lip-smackin’ endorsement!

Here’s a couple of easy ones:

Fall Fruit Tray & Fruit Dip (this is so pathetically easy and good)

1-container CoolWhip Extra Creamy (size optional)
Lemon zest to taste
Fold together, adjust for taste

• Garnish with extra lemon zest.
• Slice fruit to dip. Apples and pears – the more flavorful and colorful the better (for example, Granny Smiths and Royal Galas) - grapes, strawberries, etc.  Note: To prevent the sliced fruit from turning brown, toss it in cold water with Fruit Fresh. Drain well.
• Arrange (with peel colors showing) on a bed of colorful leafy greens (purple leaf kale looks particularly nice).

I found this recipe the other day and can’t wait to try it. Have any of you already tried it? Whatcha think?

PUMPKIN SEED BRITTLE, From the Black Cat Cafe & Bakery, Sharon Springs, NY

1/4 cup butter, room temperature (plus a little extra to grease the pan)
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
2/3 cup fresh pumpkin seeds, shelled, washed, dried and toasted (can find shelled in grocery stores)

• Line a 9X13 inch pan with foil or parchment and grease with extra butter.
• Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir in sugar and corn syrup, and bring to a boil.
• Stir constantly(or edges will burn) 5-8 minutes until mixture reaches 280-degrees F on a candy thermometer.
• Stir in pumpkin seeds.
• Pour mixture quickly into prepared pan, if necessary spread with back of a greased spoon.
• Let cool completely until hardened. Break into pieces as desired.

Okay, your turn! Lay some Spooktacular nummies of the season on me for a chance to win a prize.  It can be recipe ideas for kids, family parties, hanging out with friends, or whatever. C’mon… make me hungry!

Bev(QB)’s review of A Lick of Frost (Meredith Gentry, Book 6) by Laurell K. Hamilton
Fantasy fiction released by Ballantine Books on 23 Oct 07

It all started with Hamilton wondering “What if?” What if the myths of Faery were real. How would the Fae be perceived in our modern culture of paparazzi and celebrity worship?

The series centers around Meredith Gentry, an L.A. private investigator who is also a part-mortal faery princess, fifth in line to the Seelie throne, and one of only two contenders for the Unseelie throne. To be crowned Unseelie Queen, she must first give birth to an heir of the royal bloodline. If she fails, her sadistic Aunt Andais, the current queen, will seal the fate of the Unseelie by placing her demented son, Cel, on the throne instead. Surrounded by her guards (and potential kings, if they father her child), Merry must evade assassination attempts and maneuver through the complex intrigues of multiple Fae courts in what may turn out to be a race to save all of Faery.

Unlike Laurell Hamilton’s Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series, the Merry Gentry series really must be read in order (see below). In fact, the world building and cast of characters is so complex it is not unusual for fans to discover that multiple readings yield previously unnoticed pertinent facts. I’ve read them several times and supplemented those readings with the audio books. It’s fascinating to note that, as many times as I read the print books, listening to the audio books brings out nuances I didn’t catch with my readings. The Anita Blake series may be more commercially successful, but the Merry Gentry series, in my opinion, truly exemplifies Laurell Hamilton’s unmatched skill in world building.

A Lick of Frost opens in Los Angeles a month after Mistral’s Kiss and the chaotic events that sent Merry and her guards fleeing for their own safety from the Unseelie sithen in St. Louis. Merry is giving her statement regarding the rape charges that have been leveled against three of her Royal Guards, Galen, Abeloec, and Rhys, by the Seelie noble, Lady Caitrin. Since it was Merry’s uncle, the Seelie King Taranis, who brought the charges to the human, rather than the Faery, justice system, and since all three of the accused can be proven innocent, the motives behind Taranis’s actions are of the greatest concern to Merry and her guards.

It quickly becomes frightfully obvious that Taranis considers himself above the laws of Faery and is endangering all of Faery by blatantly ignoring the conditions of the agreement that allow the Fae to remain on American soil. But Taranis’s manipulations prove to be almost minor compared to the other jaw-dropping events that take place in this riveting book.

There were complaints about the last book, Mistral’s Kiss, and, while I didn’t consider it a disappointment, I agree it was the weakest book in the Merry Gentry series. But Hamilton is back on track with A Lick of Frost (FYI: ALoF’s first sex scene doesn’t appear until Chapter 16). I’ve only read this book once (so far) but I think it may well end up being my favorite of the series! Events proceed at a breathtaking, spectacular pace. Plus, Rhys FINALLY appears “on stage” for some one-on-one time with Merry and we learn some of Frost’s fascinating history.

Hamilton blogged while writing A Lick of Frost that she needed to whittle down the amount of men surrounding Merry. And she does it in a world altering way! Several of the events in this book would have been expected at the end of the series, however Hamilton is anything but predictable and chose to instead transform Merry’s world in ways that leave me at a booklust filled, complete loss to even GUESS where she will go with the rest of this 8 to 15 book saga!

Grade: A+

     Summary:

I am Meredith Gentry, princess and heir apparent to the throne in the realm of faerie, onetime private investigator in the mortal world.

To be crowned queen, I must first continue the royal bloodline and give birth to an heir of my own. If I fail, my aunt, Queen Andais, will be free to do what she most desires: install her twisted son, Cel, as monarch . . . and kill me.

My royal guards surround me, and my best loved-my Darkness and my Killing Frost-are always beside me, sworn to protect and make love to me. But still the threat grows greater. For despite all my carnal efforts, I remain childless, while the machinations of my sinister, sadistic Queen and her confederates remain tireless. So my bodyguards and I have slipped back into Los Angeles, hoping to outrun the gathering shadows of court intrigue. But even exile isn’t enough to escape the grasp of those with dark designs.

Now King Taranis, powerful and vainglorious ruler of faerie’s Seelie Court, has leveled accusations against my noble guards of a heinous crime-and has gone so far as to ask the mortal authorities to prosecute. If he succeeds, my men face extradition to faerie and the hideous penalties that await them there. But I know that Taranis’s charges are baseless, and I sense that his true target is me. He tried to kill me when I was a child. Now I fear his intentions are far more terrifying.

     Read Chapter One and Chapter Two.  And watch/listen to LKH read it.

Other books in this series:

Coming soon:

Book 7, Swallowing Darkness, November 2008

Drop by my personal blog, Cubie’s Confections. It’s the often bawdy, and not always work safe, musings of a pervy old broad with opinions about books, chocolate, and eye candy (you know– the important stuff), and who is convinced that hot flashes burn away brain cells.

BevQB’s review of The Mane Event by Shelly Laurenston
Paranormal romance published 1 Oct 07 by Brava

This is a collection of two novellas, Christmas Pride and Shaw’s Tail.

In Laurenston’s paranormal world, most male lion shifters are traded out to be pampered breeders in Prides of female shifters. But the two alpha lion shifters in these stories, Mace Llewellyn and Brendon Shaw, want mates of their own. We also meet alpha wolf shifter Bobby Ray Smith (Smitty), his sister Sissy Mae, and the others pack members who follow Smitty, who is lion shifter Mace’s best friend, ex-Navy Seal team member, and current business partner, as he breaks from his pack in Tennessee and forms a new pack in NYC.

Be warned that the backwoods cliche’s get a bit thick at times, and the two male lions are a bit too similar, but roll with it because this book was just so damn enjoyable!

The men were, of course, swoon worthy, but it’s the women who are in charge here. Dez (Christmas Pride) is ex-Marine Military Police: Canine Division, who loves being a NYC police detective. In fact, she loves her work so much that it took three weeks for her to realize that her ex-husband had left her. But the secondary female characters are just as strong – the scenes with Dez’s sisters and Mace’s sisters are priceless!

Ronnie Lee (Shaw’s Tail) never wanted to be trapped into a life with a mate and babies like her mama, so she took off to travel the world with Sissy Mae, who is the alpha female of the new pack. Let’s just say that there are still countries that won’t let them back in. Those two, plus the other women in the Pack and Brendon’s twin sister, are all forces to be reckoned with.

I chuckled, laughed, and grinned ear-to-ear while reading this book. Rather than being wacky or silly, the humor arose naturally from the personalities of the characters. That’s not easy to do without it feeling forced, but Laurenston seemed to accomplish it effortlessly.

The men aren’t just alpha males here, they are alpha shifters and Navy Seals. So you’d expect them to be overwhelming, surly, and intense. Nope. Laurenston adds one thing that sets this book apart from nearly every other paranormal erotic romance I’ve ever read– PLAYFULNESS. Even in the bedroom, these couples play and have fun which makes the erotic scenes all the more real and scorching.

This probably sounds sappy, but… this book was a joy to read! I personally think a sense of play is needed in more erotic romances and I can’t wait for Smitty’s story, The Beast in Him, which releases in April 2008 from Brava.

Grade: A-

From the back cover:

CHRISTMAS PRIDE
How come all the good-looking ones are insane? That’s what runs through NYPD cop Desiree “Dez” MacDermot’s mind the minute she hooks up again with her childhood buddy, Mace Llewellyn. It isn’t just the way he stares at her with those too-sexy gold eyes-as if he could devour her on the spot. Or the six-four, built-like-a-Navy Seal bod-o-death. It isn’t even that he sniffs her neck and purrs, making her entire body tingle. It’s more about that disconcerting, shifting-from-man-to-lion thing that unhinges her and makes her want more.

Mace likes making Dez crazy. In fact, he likes her any way he can get her-in bed, on the desk, here, now, again. Together, they’d always been trouble, but Dez has no idea just how good trouble can feel…”

SHAW’S TAIL
Brendon Shaw, hotel owner and lion shifter, has seen better days. He’s been beaten, had a gun to the back of his head, and had to be rescued by a Pack of shape-shifting wolves. He didn’t think he’d survive the night, much less find the woman of his dreams. And he never thought the woman of his dreams would have a Tennessee accent and wear cowboy boots. Once he sets his sights on her, the predator in him is ready to pounce and never let go. Ronnie Lee Reed is ready to change her life, and New York City is the place where any girl-even one who runs with a Pack-can redefine herself. First order of business: find a mate, settle down, and stop using men for sex. Even big, gorgeous, lion-shifting, oh-my-what-big-um-paws-you-have men. Then again…

Read an excerpt.

Drop by my personal blog, Cubie’s Confections. It’s the often bawdy, and not always work safe, musings of a pervy old broad with opinions about books, chocolate, and eye candy (you know– the important stuff), and who is convinced that hot flashes burn away brain cells.

Once Upon a Reviewer: Bev(QB). Once upon a time, there was a Faery Godmother whose true magic lay in her ability to transport herself away from her suburban Ohio soccer Mom world, and into lands found only in the pages of magical tomes. Her husband and four children never realized she was gone because she also possessed the ability to make it appear that she was still at home when actually, she had escaped to Romancelandia! Oh, there were times over her half century of life when she took trips to the lands of Suspense, Mystery, and Horror, but she always found her way back to her treasured Romancelandia. 

After exploring the myriad Realms within that land, she eventually found herself spending most of her time in the Realms of Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Regency, and the Scottish Highlands, with an occasional trip to the Medieval Realm. As the years passed, she found her way to the outlying kingdoms within in each of these Realms that the inhabitants referred to as Spicy and began to spend less and less time in the more civilized and tame central lands of the Realms.

And then one day, her magical guide, Amazon, and the sacred scroll, RT Magazine, whispered to her that there was another entire world within Romancelandia that she had yet to explore… the Realm of Erotic Romance! What wonders the Faery Godmother found there! And, to her amazement, this new Realm contained smaller fiefdoms where she could find her beloved Paranormal, Fantasy, and Historicals! But, unlike the other Realms of Romancelandia, the kingdoms within the Realm of Erotic Romance were also populated with the fiefdoms of the Ménage and the villages of the Gay. She even found that she enjoyed spending time with the inhabitants known as the Gay Cowboys!

The Faery Godmother so loved Romancelandia that she was eager to share her magical journeys and proclaim her devotion to Romancelandian Royalty such as Queen Karen Marie of Moning, Queen Bertrice of Small, Queen Stephanie of Laurens, Queen Lora of Leigh and Queen Laurell of Hamilton, who honored the Faery Godmother by giving her a role in one of the Queen’s magical vampire hunter journeys. She also shared the wonderous tales told to her by the many Princes and Princesses who held fiefdoms within the kingdoms of Black Lace, Torquere, Ellora’s Cave, and so many more! That is, when she wasn’t otherwise occupied eating the food of the gods (known to one and all as Peanut M&Ms) and watching over her braw, kilt clad warriors as they trained her stable of of magnificent shape-shifting stallions.

But even though the Faery Godmother had been traveling throughout Romancelandia for many, many years, minor vexations seldom bothered her so long as the rest of the journey included at least one of three magical elements… she must meet engaging people she’s never met before, she must explore parts of fiefdoms and Realms she’s never visited before, or the journey itself must be more exciting and unique than any she has experienced before. Yet she always endeavored to tell other travelers about problems that might vex them along the way, for she was aware that there was no such thing as a perfect journey and problems that didn’t really disturb HER enjoyment might prove insurmountable to her fellow travelers. Little else made the Faery Godmother as happy as when she could recommend a journey to a Romancelandian who returned to tell HER how much THEY enjoyed it!

But alas, the Faery Godmother was compelled to return periodically to the Land of the Grey (otherwise known as northeastern Ohio). But even that was made bearable through the magic of audio books which allowed her to dream of Romancelandian journeys while simultaneously managing to earn a living, pay college tuitions, carpool for soccer and cheerleading, and seek answers to a question that has been known to induce panic in even the most stalwart Faery Godmothers… “What’s for dinner?”

Drop by my personal blog, Cubie’s Confections. It’s the often bawdy, and not always work safe, musings of a pervy old broad with opinions about books, chocolate, and eye candy (you know– the important stuff), and who is convinced that hot flashes burn away brain cells.

BevL(QB) from Cubie’s Confections has joined us today to give us a guest review of Cheyenne McCray’s latest Magic Series book…

Wicked Magic (Magic Series, Book 3) by Cheyenne McCray
Guest review by BevL(QB)
St. Martin’s paperback published 28 Aug 07

In this romantic fantasy series, Chey McCray offers her own twist to Celtic mythology. The Fomorii were sea gods that served the evil god Balor. In a battle for control of Ireland, the Fomorii were defeated by the Tuatha D’Danaan (children of the goddess Anu), and were exiled along with their god, Balor, and his wife, Ceithlenn, by the greater gods to live in Underworld as demons. When the D’Danaan were in turn defeated by the Milesians, they left our world to live in their own Sidhe in Otherworld. No longer gods and granted the gift of winged flight by their goddess, Anu, they live as warrior Fae who remain neutral unless their ruling council feels they are needed to maintain or restore the natural order of the universe.

So what would happen if present day worshipers of the god Balor (Balorites) find a way to open the gates between our world and Underworld? And what if the neutral Tuatha D’Danaan, the only race to ever defeat the Fomorii, don’t see an urgent need to help us? Who will protect humanity from the Fomorii demons and, ultimately, Ceithlenn and Balor

In Forbidden Magic (book 1, Silver and Hawk’s story) we learn of the D’Anu witches. When the Druids fled our world for Otherworld, they left covens of their descendants to serve the goddess Anu by maintaining the balance of good and evil. Because the D’Anu witches strictly practice white magic and can do no harm to other beings, the influx of Fomorii into our world proves deadly to their San Francisco coven and some of the younger witches turn to grey magic in order to ask the Tuatha D’Danaan for help. In book 2, Seduced by Magic (Copper and Tiernan’s story), we meet more of the denizens of Otherworld, including fairies and the Drow. The Fomorii invasion of our world escalates with only minor setbacks by the few D Danaan that their council has allowed to come to the D Anu witches’ (and humanity’s) aid.

Now, in book 3, Wicked Magic (Rhiannon and Keir’s story), the danger to humanity has escalated exponentially with the release of Balor’s wife, Ceithlenn, from Underworld. The demon goddess thrives on death (literally) and the rest of humanity is beginning to realize that something is going on when her mass murders can no longer be kept secret. The D’Danaan Council, however, is still convinced that the Fomorii’s return to power may be part of the natural order of the world and will not yet commit their full complement of warriors.

Keir, the mistreated, bastard half brother of Hawk (from book 1), comes to our world with a small group of young D’Danaan he has been training to fight Formorii. Rhiannon, a D’Anu witch with a dark secret she doesn’t understand, was also tossed away as a child. Although the two are attracted to each other immediately, sparks of a different kind fly when Keir thinks he can treat Rhiannon the same way he treats his Pleasure Women.

Eventually, Keir realizes that he wants to treat Rhiannon like the treasure she is and, once Rhiannon makes him understand that she won’t tolerate OVER protectiveness, the pair proceed to fight together and love together as partners. Chey McCray treats us to some VERY steamy erotic scenes between the two, but I have to admit that Rhiannon is more woman than I will EVER be– through much of the book, she has a Ceithlenn induced, goddess sized headache that would have me snapping castration threats if Keir even THOUGHT about getting frisky!

I have to give Chey McCray credit for making the storylines of each book in this series completely unique. You will find no formulaic plots here! What you will find in every book, however, is courageous heroines who find their HEA with extremely alpha heroes in spite of the odious villains whose heinous acts escalate with each book. In Wicked Magic, Rhiannon and Keir are two people carrying deep unhealed wounds from their childhood. Trust and love are foreign and unreliable concepts for each of them. But out of their respect for each other’s abilities and their undeniable passion, grows trust and then a deep love.

One aspect of this book puzzled me. The first quarter or so of this story is peppered with groups of simple, often redundant or irrelevant, sentences that would serve the story better if combined into one or two well crafted sentences. Now, in fairness, I read an ARC that may be “tightened up” before release, and Chey’s writing style has always had a tendency towards simple sentences. But this was so pronounced that it was distracting. I even found myself pausing a few times and reworking some of these sentence groups in my head. After that shaky start, however, the book hit it’s stride and pulled me along on an enjoyable thrill ride.

So now the big question– Can this book be read as a standalone or would the reader be lost without reading the first two books in the series? While I can’t “un-know” what I already read, I feel confident in saying that this book IS self contained. Chey does a good job of filling the reader in on any facts from previous books that are relevant to this story.

Although, this book contains a couple instances of one of my biggest witch-centered story line complaints (this applies to any author)– I find it far more credible if an author establishes a character’s power/abilities/potions BEFORE they are utilized. This would greatly reduce the “Well, isn’t THAT convenient?!” reader reactions. For example, I knew that the D’Danaan, in their winged form, are invisible to humans because I read the previous books. But by the time that fact is mentioned in Wicked Magic, a casual reader will probably be scoffing because no humans have spotted the D’Dannan flitting around San Francisco.

So go ahead and read this one if you aren’t sure you want to commit to the whole series. Afterwards, if you decide you want more, I would advise that you read book 1, Forbidden Magic, BEFORE book 2, Seduced by Magic (a 2006 Passionate Plume finalist). Cheyenne McCray has come up with a truly enchanted concept and, even if the execution of her idea isn’t perfect, it IS marvelous escapism. The ending of this book’s climactic battle scene has me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

Be sure to visit Bev on her blog, Cubie’s Confections. Just know that while it’s not always work safe, it is always entertaining!