SEDUCE THE DARKNESS Review - Gena Showalter

I'm not sure what I was expecting from SEDUCE THE DARKNESS by Gena Showalter. I think I was expecting a good book, a fun and entertaining read. What I got instead, was a fantastic book with an absolutely wonderful story! I think I expected the passion in SEDUCE THE DARKNESS to take center stage with a plot line that moved the story forward but just added cushion to the romantic side of the story. Instead, the story was really quite wonderful with the romantic element acting as the icing on the cake.

Seduce the Darkness by Gena Showalter
Publisher: Pocket Star
Pages: 352
ISBN 13: 9781416531647
My Recommended Age Group: Adult
Released: June 23, 2009
Other Alien Huntress: Awaken Me Darkly, Enslave Me Sweetly, Red Handed (YA), Blacklisted (YA), Savor Me Slowly, Tempt Me Eternally in Not That Innocent

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From Showalter's Website:

SHE HAS A BODY MADE FOR TEMPTATION . . .

AND A KISS TO DIE FOR.

The war between otherworlders and humans changed Earth beyond recognition. It also saved Bride McKells’s life. Before, the gorgeous vampire was a target for every fanatic with a stake and a crucifix. Now she’s free to roam the streets—and desperate to find others of her kind. One man claims to have the answers she seeks. Devyn, King of the Targons, is a warrior and a womanizer, and he makes no secret of how much he wants Bride—and how dangerous he could be to her in every way.

An avid collector of women, Devyn easily seduces human and otherworlder alike. Until now. Not only does Bride resist him, but she leaves Devyn feeling something entirely new . . . a bone-deep need bordering on obsession. Her blood is the key to curing a vicious alien disease, but helping Bride uncover her origins will compel her to choose between electrifying passion and a destiny that could tear her from Devyn’s side forever.

My thoughts:

Bride McKells lives on Earth during a time after the great alien war when otherworlders and humans have learned to coexist in a peaceful but strained relationship. The world is vastly different than it was before, with real fruit, non-cloned animals and precious water extraordinarily hard if not impossible to come by. Bride McKells's vampiric memory of the centuries is quite acute and she misses the way things were before. Most of all, she misses the child that she befriended then mysteriously lost long ago. When she runs into Devyn, and smells her friend all over him, a game of cat and mouse is begun. Bride will do almost anything to find her friend and just might rip Devyn's head off once she finally does.

Devyn is King of the Targons. He is a womanizer, specializing in having women from different worlds. If he has been with a woman from one world before, he has no interest in being with another from that world. Devyn has already been with a vampire. Two in fact. He has no interest in Bride; yet, why can't he stop thinking about her? Despite his convictions, Devyn can't seem to get his mind off this beautiful, dark haired woman. What will become of this proud man once he discovers that his heart might be the most traitorous thing out there.

Amidst a plot full of romance, mystery and suspense, Showalter shows us what it means to live in a destroyed world and what love and passion are really about. As I mentioned previously, passion plays a large part in SEDUCE THE DARKNESS, but the story surrounding this is really great as well. As Bride and Devyn discover each other and the mysteries of their own lives, they also find themselves fighting a great danger. An alien race with a horribly infectious disease carried in their blood. If allowed to roam Earth free, their disease could infect the entire planet in a very short time, turning every human into a vicious cannibal shortly before dying.

As you can see, Showalter does an amazing job of constructing a story. Usually, you can tell when a story is built to be a great romance and when it is built to be a great action story, full of adrenaline pumping plot. Showalter built SEDUCE THE DARKNESS in such a way, that the book encompasses both of these with really no discernible barrier between the two. As I was reading, I actually thought a couple of times, "Wow, this is a great romance. Wow, this is a great suspenseful read. Wait, which is it?" This is a wonderful book and a great story that flows well and creates a fantastic rounded story.

I absolutely loved the character development in SEDUCE THE DARKNESS. Bride is, of course, my favorite character as I usually love the heroines the most. She is strong but not without her weak points. She has a fantastic personality and best of all she is quite witty with a great amount of humor. Showalter has created a very fun character that was a pleasure to read.

When you've got the strong and witty Bride, you've got to have the unreachable and yet highly desirable Devyn. Despite her best efforts, Bride can't help but to find herself attracted to the tall, beautiful warrior. Why shouldn't she? Everyone else is. She refuses just to be another one of his conquests, however, and this irritates Devyn to no end. Dealing with his own demons, Devyn finds solace in bedding women but it's possible that his charm and fantastic looks might not be enough for Bride. As with Bride, Showalter has imbued Devyn with a great deal of complexity, adding multiple layers of depth to this character that makes him an absolute pleasure to read. While we get to enjoy the passionate side of him, we also get to learn more about his past and how he came to be where he is now. We get to watch him fight, love, learn and unravel the mysteries of his own past. He is a fantastic character on multiple levels and aside from the strong and passionate Bride, he is the reason this book is as great as it is.

Somehow, Showalter has created the perfect duo between Bride and Devyn. Where their passionate relationship will end up I won't tell you. Be content with the fact, however, that you're in for quite a treat. Even though they are fictional characters on paper, Showalter has given them so much life that the sparks between the two can be felt just as if they were staring at each other across the room right in front of you. Her ability to create realism in her writing and make the story leap off the written page really helps to make her top notch.

Just as Showalter adds depth to Devyn and Bride, she also has created a great deal of depth and complexity within the actual story itself. Multiple layers within the story and multiple side character plots flesh out the book. Really, if you like the Paranormal genre at all, it felt like there was something for everyone here.

Fair warning time: SEDUCE THE DARKNESS does include a fair amount of wonderful seduction. For that reason, I need to tell you that it does include adult themes and adult scenes. I'd give it a sensuality rating of four.

Writing: 9
Interest: 10
Passion: 10
Originality: 10
Characters: 10
Pace: 10
Overall: 59/60 - A

Book Cover: 3/3

This was another book where I had to step away from the review and ponder it for a bit before deciding where each category fell in my rating scale. I want to give as honest and clear cut of a rating as possible so that each book that scores an A can compare with each other and likewise down the scale. When I finally took a look at the scale, I couldn't help but to give perfect points to each factor in the scale save for writing. Writing pulled out a nine in this scale simply because there were a few sections that got a little muddled in my brain and required me to reread them. Really, when I say "a few," I mean that there were maybe five sentences that fit this description.

As you can tell, I really loved SEDUCE THE DARKNESS. This is the first book by Gena Showalter that I have read and I'm quite glad that I did. SEDUCE THE DARKNESS is an Alien Huntress novel, with other stories before it that follow related characters. While there are some previous books, I don't believe that not having read them will make SEDUCE THE DARKNESS any less wonderful. I haven't read the other books and Showalter does such an amazing job of discreetly filling us in with what has already happened in her world that SEDUCE THE DARKNESS really works quite well as a stand alone novel.

Now that you've read my review, you should go out and find a copy to read for yourself. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

This review is part of the SEDUCE THE DARKNESS blog tour from Pocket Star. Other participants include:

Readaholic
Book Series Reviews
All About {n}
Debbie’s World of Books
Wendy’s Minding Spot
Anna’s Book Blog
My Guilty Pleasures
Undercover Book Lover
Drey’s Library
A Book Bloggers Diary
Book Soulmates
My Friend Amy
Literary Escapism
Horror and Fantasy Book Review
Temple Library Reviews
Fantasy Freak
Books Joseph Reads

Guest Post with Candace Havens - Dragons Prefer Blondes

In a world where sassy socialites battle dragon warriors, Alex Caruthers finds herself in a very sticky predicament. Her long time enemy, the dragon warrior Ginjin has suddenly decided that Alex is to be his mate. Of course this doesn't sit well with Alex and what follows is a fascinating and fun series of events. DRAGONS PREFER BLONDES, the second book by Candace Havens featuring the Caruthers sisters is due out July 7th! That's just barely over a week away!

To celebrate the upcoming release date for DRAGONS PREFER BLONDES, A Journey of Books is pleased to welcome Candace Havens to the stage. She has very generously agreed to tell us a little bit about her journey to publication.

- - - - - - - - - - -

Candace Havens

This is my story about the road to getting published in fiction. It's a strange journey that no one would believe if I put it in a book.

It begins in Los Angeles at a summer press tour three years ago. That's where all of the TV critics get together to preview the new fall season television series and talk to the stars, producers, and writers associated with the shows. It sound glamorous and exciting, and for the most part it is. But after three weeks of talking to celebrities 15 hours a day, you get tired. Really tired.

My friend Paulette Cohn, who writes for Entertainment Tonight Online, and I were scoping out the talent at an ABC party and chatting. Our talk turned to books and she told me she wanted to write a romance.

I told her that I'd always wanted to write fiction and that I had a million stories and characters running around in my head. She said, " You should just sit down and do it. I bet you'd be great."

Well, two weeks later I did exactly that. Keep in mind that my regular job means writing 45-50 hours a week. At the end of each day, no matter how late it was, I would write for at least two hours.

I lost myself in this new world I'd created and I loved it. I didn't want to stop. A few weeks a later I had a first draft. Then I promptly stuck it in a drawer.

Three months later Britta Coleman ("Potter Springs") moved in next door. Long, story short, we found out we were both columnist and novelist, and we became great friends. I know, too weird to be true. Britta took that first draft of mine and ripped it apart. It was littered with red pen. It hurt. I wanted to cry. But I learned so much.

She dragged me to a critique group, which further humiliated me and made me feel like a loser writer, but I kept at it. In May of that next year I had an opportunity to query an editor the critique group brought to town. The night before we were to meet the editor, Britta said to make sure that I had other ideas to pitch. "She'll ask what else you have and you need an answer."

I panicked. Big time. I'd just finished the first one and didn't think I could ever do it again. But that night I stayed up and wrote a short synopsis for a book that had been rolling around my brain for some time.

The meeting with the editor went well, and she did ask about the follow-up book. She told me when I had some chapters to send it to her.

So, I wrote "The Witch's Diaries," which later became "Charmed and Dangerous." That particular editor didn't care for the book, but I did. (That same editor later became my editor, which is why you never talk trash about anyone. (smile) ) I loved the book and once again my friend Britta stepped in. "Now," she said, "we have to find you an agent."

I sent out about 10 letters and thought I would sit and wait for all the adulation to come in. I could imagine agents fighting for my book and then the millions of dollars would come rolling in. I’d just met Nicholas Sparks and thought his story would soon be mine. It didn't happen. I have to admit I had some really nice rejection letters, most of them along of the lines of "good writing, but it's not my kind of thing." It was depressing.

Around this same time Britta pushed me to go to a writing conference and it was a quite a learning experience. There I had an opportunity to meet with an agent face-to-face. I interview famous people for a living, but I don't think I've ever been so terrified.

She hadn't read a word I'd written and I did everything wrong you could do in an interview like that. I talked too fast, stumbled when I tried to explain my books. It was awful. At the end of our 15-minute conversation she asked for the entire manuscript of "Charmed and Dangerous" I was shocked.

A few months, and many revisions later, she became my agent. It wasn't long before I realized I was one lucky girl. A month later we had a two-book deal with Berkley, my dream publisher. They changed the title from "The Witch's Diaries" to "Charmed and Dangerous" and put it on the fast track to be published in September 2005. And I got the world's greatest editor who really believed in my book.

I make this sound like a charmed story, but the truth is, along the way it wasn't so charming. There were days when the critique group I belong to ripped me apart. From the beginning there were people who said my book was too different and would never work.

But there were just as many people, my great friends in the critique group, who did believe in me. They encouraged me to stick with it and follow my heart. They were right.

In the end, the editor was drawn to the story because it was fresh, different and she loved that I had such a strong voice.

My sixth book, “Dragons Prefer Blondes” debuts Tuesday, July 7, 2009. The road after publication was equally bumpy and is a story for another day.

If you’re a writer, stick with it. Believe in your work and keep putting yourselfout there!

- - - - - - - - - - -

You know, there's nothing I love more than an inspirational story and an author that tells the honest truth. This was absolutely fabulous Candace! Thanks for sharing a little bit about your writing and your life with us!

From Haven's Website:

Second in the paranormal series featuring the Caruthers sisters, party girls who save the world -- between cocktails.

Alex Caruthers is a sassy socialite who knows when it's time to turn in her dancing shoes and kick some serious dragon booty. But when Ginjin -- the dragon warrior who's tried to kill her numerous times -- chooses her as his mate, Alex finds herself in a situation that's too hot to handle.

For help she turns to Jake, head of Caruthers security -- and a total hottie in a suit -- and asks him to pose as her boyfriend. Their relationship might be fake, but Alex can't deny that one touch from Jake makes her burn hotter than any dragon could.

Want to win a copy?

We are giving away one copy of DRAGONS PREFER BLONDES. Pay attention as the rules may have changed.

You can do any or all of these to enter the giveaway but the one thing you have to do is leave me a comment including some sort of contact information (email works).

+1 - What is your favorite Paranormal Romance?
+2 - For following on Blogger (+1 additional if you already follow and for Twitter follows - @cinnleigh)
+5 - For following Candace Havens (+5 for each). Forward any verification to ajourneyofbooks(at)gmail(dot)com. Twitter - @candacehavens, Myspace, Facebook and/or her blog
+3 - If you post a link to this on your blog (+1 additional for every other place you post about this).
+2 - If you refer someone
+1 - If you tell me who referred you.

Aside from leaving me links and such to go along with your entries, the only other thing I ask is that you keep all of your entries to one comment. Additional comments for reposting this later are fine.

This contest will end July 14th, 2009 at midnight Eastern. Make sure you come back and check to see who won. I won't guarantee to hunt winners down.

Sorry, but this contest is only open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.
We can't ship to PO Boxes so make sure you have an alternate mailing address.

MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE Giveaway

Today, A Journey of Books gets to take part in a fabulous blog tour for Carolyn Jewel's MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE. This was a delicious paranormal romance that is absolutely bound to get your heart racing! Want to know more? Check out my review.

My Forbidden Desire By Carolyn Jewel


Publish Date: June 1, 2009


From GoodReads:

TORN BETWEEN...

Alexandrine Marit is a witch in mortal danger. An evil mage craves the powerful, mysterious talisman that supplies her magic, and the only person who can keep her safe is a dark and dangerous fiend called Xia. With his fierce animosity toward witches, he's hardly the ideal bodyguard. Yet as days turn into nights, she can't deny the white-hot passion between them.

DESIRE AND TEMPTATION

Xia hates witches. They enslave and mercilessly kill his kind. But he's been ordered to protect Alexandrine, who, to his surprise, has a spirit he admires and a body he longs to possess. With the mage and his henchmen closing in, Alexandrine and her protector must trust the passion that can unite them...or risk losing everything to the enemies who can destroy them both.

How to win:

We are giving away five copies. Pay attention as the rules may have changed.

You can do any or all of these to enter the giveaway but the one thing you have to do is leave me a comment including some sort of contact information (email works).

+1 - Who's your favorite "bad boy" (movie, book or real life)?
+2 - For following on Blogger (+1 additional if you already follow and for Twitter follows)
+3 - For commenting on the review.
+5 - For following Carolyn Jewel (+5 for each). Forward any verification to ajourneyofbooks(at)gmail(dot)com. Twitter - @cjewel, Myspace, and Facebook
+3 - If you post a link to this on your blog (+1 additional for every other place you post about this).
+2 - If you refer someone
+1 - If you tell me who referred you.

Aside from leaving me links and such to go along with your entries, the only other thing I ask is that you keep all of your entries to one comment. Additional comments for reposting this later are fine.

This contest will end July 13th, 2009 at midnight Eastern. Make sure you come back and check to see who won. I won't guarantee to hunt winners down.

Sorry, but this contest is only open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.
We can't ship to PO Boxes so make sure you have an alternate mailing address.

Other blogs participating in this tour:

http://bridget3420.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
http://ajourneyofbooks.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
www.morbid-romantic.net - June 28 review, giveaway, and Q&A
http://debbiesworld.wordpress.com - June 28
http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com - June 28 giveaway
http://rannthisthat.blogspot.com - June 28
http://dreyslibrary.blogspot.com - June 28 review, giveaway, and Q&A
http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com - June 28
http://martasmeanderings.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
http://www.mgpblog.com/ - June 28 review and giveaway
http://www.startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
http://trinsnook.blogspot.com - June 28 review and giveaway
http://mustreadfaster.blogspot.com - June 29 review and giveaway
http://www.loveimpossible.com - June 29 review and Q&A
http://seductivemusings.blogspot.com - June 29 review and giveaway
http://reviewfromhere.com/ - June 29 review
http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com/ - June 29 review; giveaway
http://mindingspot.blogspot.com/ - review, giveaway, and Q&A
http://reesspace.blogspot.com - review and giveaway
http://carolsnotebook.wordpress.com/ - June 29 review, giveaway, and possible Q&A
http://horrorandfantasybookreview.blogspot.com - June 29 review and giveaway
http://www.myspace.com/darbyscloset - review

MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE Review - Carolyn Jewel

A paranormal romance the likes of which I haven't read before. MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE by Carolyn Jewel was passionate, no doubt about that. What made it unique was the story; a well developed plot full of twists and turn that took me toward the unexpected at pretty much every turner. MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE was a nice change, a foray into the wild side of paranormal romance.

My Forbidden Desire by Carolyn Jewel
Publisher: Forever
Pages: 384
My Recommended Age Group: Adult
Released: June 1, 2009
Related books: My Wicked Enemy
Shop Indie!

From GoodReads:

TORN BETWEEN...

Alexandrine Marit is a witch in mortal danger. An evil mage craves the powerful, mysterious talisman that supplies her magic, and the only person who can keep her safe is a dark and dangerous fiend called Xia. With his fierce animosity toward witches, he's hardly the ideal bodyguard. Yet as days turn into nights, she can't deny the white-hot passion between them.

DESIRE AND TEMPTATION

Xia hates witches. They enslave and mercilessly kill his kind. But he's been ordered to protect Alexandrine, who, to his surprise, has a spirit he admires and a body he longs to possess. With the mage and his henchmen closing in, Alexandrine and her protector must trust the passion that can unite them...or risk losing everything to the enemies who can destroy them both.

My thoughts:

Alexandrine Marit is a witch; well, sort of anyways. She has magic, sure enough, but unfortunately, her ability to access it is so limited that apart from some limited premonitions she's really no different than your average, every day Joe. What makes her special is the talisman that she wears around her neck; a talisman that should supposedly hold great power but does absolutely nothing for Alexandrine's limited magic. Imagine her surprise when her brother, long believed to be dead, shows up and insists that her very life is in danger due to the innocent-looking necklace. He brings along with him Xia, an ex-mageheld, and one very angry demon.

I really loved Xia's character as he is part of what made MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE so unique. It's hard for me to put a finger down on what special attribute he has, but I think I love him because he is the ultimate bad boy. It's no secret that we women tend to fall for the tall, dark and handsome bad boys out there. That fits Xia to a T, and he is definitely not ashamed to admit it. He absolutely hates Alexandrine with an intense and undying passion. Only problem is that her body and her magic are terribly arousing to him. What is one to do when you despise what another is and yet find yourself attracted to him or her at the same time? Well, try to get them in bed of course!

There are two things that make a great romance for me. One is a strong heroine, and the other is a strong hero. MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE holds both of those. Alexandrine is the type who is unwilling to take crud from anyone and she will sure as heck let Xia know when she thinks he is out of line. Of course, even when he is out of line, he's still intensely attractive so Alexandrine finds herself attracted to the demon just as much as she despises him. This conflict creates an amazing degree of depth that should allow for enjoyment throughout multiple rereads.

Jewel does a fantastic job with building the tension throughout MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE. Very seldom would she immediately give us what we wanted. Instead, she'd tease us, pulling us along just to the snapping point and then she gently release us, only to start the process all over again. This made the book quite difficult to set down and in fact, I only found four spots where I could set it down. When the tension is so delicious that you can't help but to keep reading and experiencing the story, you know you've got a great book in your hands.

The one thing that caught me up a few times were the few disconnects in the story. There were a couple times where it felt like I must have skipped a paragraph or two because the transition from one event to another seemed to be lacking something. The few times I reread the section I discovered that I hadn't missed anything. The best way I have to describe it is like trying to write this huge research paper but being told that you have to keep it to a short word count. You write the paper up, discover it's too long and then have to cut sections out. Only problem is that everything flows together so well, there's nothing that can be cut out. You do it anyways to stay within the limits of the paper and end up with something that is less stellar than the original product. Now, I'm not at all saying that these disconnects were due to editor overzealousness, that's just the best way I have to describe the feeling that I got those couple times. Really, it did not detract from the book too much and obviously I still loved MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE.

Fair warning time: You probably don't need this warning as it should be obvious, but just the same, I'd be remiss if I didn't give it. This book has strong adult themes and scenes. I would give it a sensuality rating of four with the only difference between four and five being the choice of words used. Jewel takes romance to a whole new level here; I suggest a cold drink, or perhaps a cold shower in between chapters.

Writing: 8
Interest: 8
Passion: 9
Originality: 9
Characters: 9
Pace: 8
Overall: 51/60 - B

Book Cover: 3/3

Under my rating scale, MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE earned a lovely B. If you aren't acquainted with my ratings, a B means that I loved the book and highly recommend it. If you'd rather think of stars than letters, consider B a four star rating.

To break it down, I gave Writing, Interest and Pace 8's because they were all fabulous and really helped to move the story along. The difference between eight and ten were due to mainly the disconnects that I experienced in the story. There were a couple times that I didn't understand what was going on in the story and a couple times that a highly charged scene needed a bit of a caffeine boost. The remaining qualities I look at, Passion, Originality and Characters all scored remarkably high. The passion between Xia and Alexandrine is palpable. There are a few twists and turns in this relationship that make it quite unique, but I'll refrain from explaining them here to avoid spoilers. The originality of the book was also amazing. The same twists and turns that I just mentioned created a whole new atmosphere that I had not yet experienced. The highly developed characters added to the recipe for a great plot and made this story something special. I really loved where Jewel took MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE and think that her plot choices helped to make this book as phenomenal as it is.

Now that I've told you what a winner MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE is, why are you still here? Go, buy it and read it! MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE does include characters from Jewel's earlier work, My Wicked Enemy but I wouldn't let that deter you from the book. I had not read the first book and don't feel that this impacted the story much at all. Jewel does a fantastic job of making MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE a stand alone novel.

UnderCover Friday - Bone Magic

The final cover for BONE MAGIC by Yasmine Galenorn is up! I posted about the preliminary cover not too long ago and they've made a few changes since then. I'll include both covers here for your perusal. I love what they've done with the new cover. The red, instead of the blue, really makes our heroine pop. Every aspect of her features seems a bit more accentuated with the red tones rather than the blue.

Gorgeous, isn't it. I think what really does it for me is the back shot. The artist and photographer captured a gorgeous picture of her back and shoulders, really making an already attractive body part just that much prettier.

Release date: January 2010

From GoodReads:

When the Moon Mother and the Black Beast summon Camille to OW, she thinks she's just going to reunite with her alpha lover. But once there, Camille is forced to undergo a drastic ritual that will forever change her life, and the lives of those around her.

Don't forget, we have a variety of contests going on. Some are even ending today!
One Deadly Sin - Ends 6/26
The Host Giveaway - Ends 6/30
The Host Blog Tour - Ends 6/30
The Night Gardener Giveaway - Ends 6/30
Rachel Vincent Interview and Giveaway - Ends 7/02
Bound To Please Giveaway - Ends 7/06

Author Interview and Giveaway with Rachel Vincent - PREY

Today, A Journey of Books has the good fortune of welcoming Rachel Vincent to the stage. Vincent's latest book, PREY ( Shifters series, book 4) is due out July 1, 2009! For those of us who are already Shifters fans, this means that our wait is finally over! I don't know about you, but I find myself constantly staring at the calendar, watching with glee as the days between now and July fly by.

Now, if you're not already a fan of Vincent's Shifters series, there's no time like the present to become one. I first picked up the books when Borders suggested the series to me based on my previous browsing history. On a whim, I bought them and am so glad that I did. This is really one of the best shapeshifter series out there. Vincent does a wonderful job of creating depth in her characters and giving us an adrenaline pumping plot that is sure to please. Normally I would post a blurb of PREY, but since it contains spoilers, I'll refrain. You can, however, read my reviews of Stray, Rogue and Pride. While I try to remain spoiler free, the natural of progression of the story is still apparent, so read at your own risk.

Alright, I've told you why I'm excited about the upcoming release of PREY and I've told you why you want to be excited about it. Now let's switch gears and hear a little bit about what Vincent has to say regarding her life, her writing and her upcoming release. I've also heard rumors that the fabulous Faythe might just make an appearance today as well.

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Rachel, glad you could make it!

Thank you! I’m so glad to be here.

How are things treating you nowadays?

I’m fine. Delightfully busy. ;-)

Ten years ago, is there where you pictured yourself? As a wee tyke, what did you imagine you'd grow up to be?

Ten years ago? No. After college, I didn’t do much writing for a while, so this career would have been a total surprise to me-from-ten-years ago!

It seems like your Shifters books hit the Urban Fantasy world by storm. What are your feelings on the whirlwind success?

Oh, well thank you! I don’t know if I’d call it a whirlwind, but I’m definitely feeling a breeze. ;-) I’m very excited, and grateful for the opportunities that have been tossed my way. And I’m trying desperately to deserve them. To make each book better than the last, so that I feel like I’m moving forward. And that readers are getting their money’s worth.

PREY, the fourth installment, is coming up on us fast with a release date of July 1, 2009. I know your fans out there are antsy. How are you dealing with the anticipation of the big day?

Well, it leaked out early in most places, so I’m already getting feedback. Prey is a very important book in the series. It’s the one that changes everything, and so far, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Even those readers who don’t like what happened have admitted to loving the book, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about that.

As for anticipation, I’m honestly trying not to think about it. And failing. ;-) This job comes with a lot of pressure, and I have to put that aside in order to stay focused on my current WIP.

The books leading up to PREY are so unique in their story-lines. What inspired the story overall and more specifically, PREY?

After the first book in my series (both Shifters and Soul Screamers), the storylines are inspired by the world I’ve created, and the conflict inherent in it, as well as any personal relationships the characters developed in that first book. Once I have the rules of my world and know how everything works, I just ask myself, “What’s the worst possible way this could go wrong?” Then I answer the question.

It certainly does seem like things are always going wrong! Your lead character, Faythe, is a wonderfully strong female lead. Was she modeled after anyone? How'd you come up with her?

No, she wasn’t modeled after anyone in particular, though her mouth is quite a bit like mine, when I was in my early twenties. If I had an opinion, everyone around me was going to hear about it, whether they wanted to or not. I’ve grown out of most of that, and so has Faythe. But that’s really the only bit of her taken from anyone real.

Faythe is a product of her environment. When she was coddled, she got spoiled. When people started expecting more of her, she delivered. She’s risen to every occasion I’ve thrown at her, and I think her development as a character is going very, very well. I’m proud of her. ;-)

I've heard some authors mention that their characters ran away with the book. Are you happy with the direction the story is going?

Oh yes! If I wasn’t happy with it, it would never see print. ;-)

Reviews have already started rolling in for PREY. What are your thoughts so far?

So far, I’m thrilled. But half expecting the other shoe to drop. The reviews so far have been amazing, but I took some serious risks in this one, and am expecting someone to be mad about that, eventually. ;-)

Inquiring minds always want to know - how do you write? Do you have a special routine (special snacks, mood lighting, rock out music)?

No, none of that. I do listen to music sometimes, but my choice of song really depends on the tone of the scene I’m writing. I do always sit in the same place, though. In my recliner, in my den, with my laptop on my lap. It’s been like that from the beginning. The same chair, though I’ve gone through 3 laptops and two lap desks. ;-)

Any other projects you're working on or anything else you'd like to share with us?

Yes! My YA debut comes out August 1 of this year. My Soul to Take is the first in my upcoming Soul Screamers series, about a teenage bean sidhe (banshee). If you want an early peek at Kaylee Cavanaugh and her world, you can check out the free ebook prequel coming out on July 1, the same day Prey officially hits the shelves!

Thanks so much for stopping by! Don't forget to grab a cookie (or fuzzy rabbit depending on your appetite) on your way home!

Thank you so much for having me!

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Isn't she just a fabulous author? It takes a sharp mind and an even sharper wit to come up with a character as vivacious as Faythe. Speaking of, look who just came walking in!

So Faythe, thanks for joining us!

No problem. It’s good to get off the ranch without scoring new scars, for once!

You seem to have an on again, off again relationship with major hunk Marc. I don't know how anybody could resist that spectacular body and animal magnetism. What about Marc, or his physique, first drew you in?

I’ve known him most of my life, so we kind of grew up together. He is undeniably hot, but we didn’t really connect on a personal level until I was in high school. And I’d have to say that the feature that really drew me in was his eyes. He has these amazing brown eyes with little flecks of gold in them. They stay the same color, even in his cat form. Beautiful!

It's got to be touchy having multiple guys vying for your attention. Any suggestions for the rest of us should we ever found ourselves in your shoes?

Yeah. Try not to be in my shoes. Seriously. There are only two guys, but it gets pretty tense around here sometimes.

Speaking of shoes, we just love your wardrobe! If you had to sum it up in a sentence or less, how would you describe your style?

Very casual. Utilitarian. I work in black tees, jeans, and boots. And I work most of the time. Makes laundry pretty easy. ;-)

I hear cats are all the rage right now. I actually have a small black cat - sometimes I think she's plotting my demise. What's your take on domestic cats?

Ha! Cats are all the rage! I love it. ;-) As for domestic cats, well… they don’t like us very well. We’ve never been able to have pets, because our scent terrifies them. But I have to say I like that humans have domestic cats as pets. That’s much smarter than trying to tame a werecat. ;)

No doubt! Thanks for stopping by Faythe. I'm sure you've got a lot going on. Can't wait to hear all about it.

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Wow! Those two make a fantastic duo, don't they? Vincent as she plots ways to torment poor Faythe's life and Faythe as she plots ways to overcome anything that Vincent can throw at her.

You can find Rachel Vincent online at:
The Pride
Her Website
Her Blog
Myspace
Twitter @rachelkvincent
Her Newsletter

You can order PREY online. I hear that they are already shipping out!

Now that you are super psyched to read PREY, how about we throw in a contest for a free SIGNED copy? Interested? Read the directions below carefully as there is an extra surprise tossed in.

You can do any or all of these to enter the giveaway but the one thing you have to do is leave me a comment including some sort of contact information (email works).

+1 - Comment on some aspect of the interview or ask a question for Vincent.
+5 - Follow Rachel at her blog, Myspace, Twitter @rachelkvincent or subscribe to her newsletter. Five points for each one. Make sure to forward any confirmations you receive to ajourneyofbooks(at)gmail(dot)com with PREY CONTEST in the subject line.
+2 - For following on Blogger (+1 additional if you already follow and for Twitter follows)
+3 - If you post a link to this on your blog (+1 additional for every other place you post about this).
+2 - If you refer someone
+1 - If you tell me who referred you.

Are you ready for the big surprise? If we get 50 or more people to come and enter this contest, I will personally award a copy of the entire Shifters series so far to one lucky person who does not already own them. Pretty amazing, right? For every 25 people above that 50 who enter, I'll include another set of the books for another person. If you want to be included in this section of the contest, make sure to tell me in your original post whether or not you already own the books. The easiest way to trigger this special surprise is to get everyone you know to come enter along with you. Remember, you get extra points for referring or being referred.

Aside from leaving me links and such to go along with your entries, the only other thing I ask is that you keep all of your entries to one comment. Additional comments for reposting this later are fine.

This contest will end July 2th, 2009 at midnight Eastern. That's ONE week. Make sure you come back and check to see who won. I won't guarantee to hunt winners down.

Sorry, but this contest is only open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.
We can't ship to PO Boxes so make sure you have an alternate mailing address.

Gorgeous NEW MOON Movie Tie In

Perhaps I should save this for Friday's UnderCover Friday feature. Yeah, nope, not going to happen. You see, I'm an impulsive person. So much so that I have been twitching ever since I saw the cover of the NEW MOON movie tie in over at Lush Budget Production's Tales of a Ravenous Reader. Why have I been twitching? Well, the extra caffeine could have a wee bit to do with it, but more so than that, I just really wanted to share the hot studliness with you! I don't even care whether or not "studliness" is an actual word; I am that excited.

Phew, not that I've wiped the drool off my chin, I need to figure out some way to remove Bella and insert myself firmly in her place. Shh, don't tell the hubby! So what if Taylor is ... a few years my junior. He is tanned and defined. Yum!

You can read more about the cover release at Entertainment Weekly.

You can read my review of NEW MOON (the original cover) if you like. Although I imagine that the movie will be great, I suggest reading the book first. My chest still gets tight just thinking about it.

For those who haven't read the book, here's the blurb from Stephenie Meyer's website:

"Shoot," I muttered when the paper sliced my finger; I pulled it out to examine the damage. A single drop of blood oozed from the tiny cut.

It all happened very quickly then.

Edward threw himself at me, flinging me back across the table...

I tumbled down to the floor by the piano, with my arms thrown out instinctively to catch my fall, into the jagged shards of glass. I felt the searing, stinging pain that ran from my wrist to the crease inside my elbow.

Dazed and disoriented, I looked up from the bright red blood pulsing out of my arm—into the fevered eyes of the six suddenly ravenous vampires.

Waiting on Wednesday - THE HOLLOW

I know, I know. I just featured THE HOLLOW on UnderCover Friday. Well, it should come as no surprise then to see it featured again here, on this week's Waiting on Wednesday seeing as how I cannot wait to get my hands on it. This book has been haunting my dreams and I haven't even read the entire story yet; alas, I've only experienced the sneak peeks that Jessica Verday has so teasingly given us.

Want to stay updated on THE HOLLOW and Jessica Verday news? Sign up and receive a fun goodie pack!

You can also find Verday online at:
Myspace
Facebook
Simon & Schuster

Release date: September 1, 2009


From Verday's Website:

When Abbey's best friend, Kristen, vanishes at the bridge near Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, everyone else is all too quick to accept that Kristen is dead and rumors fly that her death was no accident. Abbey goes through the motions of mourning her best friend, but privately, she refuses to believe that Kristen is really gone. Then she meets Caspian, the gorgeous and mysterious boy who shows up out of nowhere at Kristen's funeral, and keeps reappearing in Abbey's life. Caspian clearly has secrets of his own, but he's the only person who makes Abbey feel normal again...but also special.

Just when Abbey starts to feel that she might survive all this, she learns a secret that makes her question everything she thought she knew about her best friend. How could Kristen have kept silent about so much? And could this secret have led to her death? As Abbey struggles to understand Kristen's betrayal, she uncovers a frightening truth that nearly unravels her -- one that will challenge her emerging love for Caspian, as well as her own sanity.

LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT Review - Ronald J. Frederick, Ph.D.

Have you ever sat around thinking, "My life is great. Things seem to be going well for me!" Only, on the inside you're sad, anxious or depressed? I didn't realize I was doing this until after reading Dr. Ronald J. Frederick's new book, LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT. As the cover states, he shows us how to use the wisdom and power of our emotions to get the lives we really want. He has an uncanny way of encouraging us to look deep within ourselves to see the truth behind our actions. This makes LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT a powerful and compelling read.

Living Like You Mean It by Ronald J. Frederick, Ph.D.
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
Pages: 208
My Recommended Age Group: Any Age
Released: March 3, 2009

From Dr. Frederick's Website:

Are you like most people?

You’ve got a busy and full life, a successful career, friends and family, and yet, for some reason, you feel like something’s missing.

Do you find yourself wondering, “Is this as good as it gets?”

Many of us feel this way. We long to be more alive and present in our lives, more in touch with ourselves, and closer to those we love. Yet no matter what we do, we can’t seem to get there.

Why is it so Hard to Live the Life We Really Want?

As a licensed psychologist and life coach with over fifteen years of experience helping people get the life they really want, I believe that a big piece of what is making us feel disconnected has to do with fear.

What are we afraid of? The answer may surprise you. We’re afraid of our own feelings.

It’s our feelings that make us feel alive and vital, that bridge the gap between ourselves and others and help us to feel close. And it’s a "feelings phobia" that keeps us detached from the wisdom and power inside of us and at a distance from others.

But, no more!

Living Like You Mean It: Use the Wisdom and Power of Your Emotions to Get the Life You Really Want shares with you my proven four-step approach to overcoming fear and connecting more deeply with yourself and others.

My thoughts:

LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT really seems designed to connect with any level of reader. Dr. Frederick takes what could be a very complex topic - battling with ourselves to change beliefs that we have held since childhood - and put them in an easy to understand and easy to use format. Part One deals with preparation. Dr. Frederick allows us to use self discovery to observe our actions and break them down into parts we can analyze. He explains the basis for certain emotions and why we as a culture tend to push our emotions down, choosing to smother them rather than releasing them. Using recent research on the brain and body, Dr. Frederick shows us how emotions are tied to our thoughts and can greatly influence our lives.

After getting some great background info, both about emotional mindfulness and our own personal emotions, Dr. Frederick takes us into the action phase of reorganizing our emotions. Part Two shows us how to increase our emotional awareness and determine where our defenses come from. Now that we can recognize our feeling phobias he shows us how to tamp that fear down and allow ourselves to ride the waves of our emotions from beginning to the peak and finally to their release.

If you had asked me weeks ago if I bottled up my emotions or if I let them control my life, I would have told you, "Absolutely not!" I am the master of me...aren't I? I found myself perusing the pages of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT, gradually flipping faster and faster as Dr. Frederick's words struck a chord in my heart. His examples and tell tale signs of working against one's emotions instead of with them actually rang true with me! I'm not ashamed to admit that I discovered a lot about myself between the covers of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT. For a book, a simple collection of dried plant fibers, that really says something.

One of the most useful aspects of the book, aside from the great layout and formatting, was the way Dr. Frederick included stories from composites of actual patients. Each story was about a different individual and his or her challenge to learn that their emotions were not a force to be reckoned with, but rather a helping hand, guiding them through life. I think it is safe to say that there is at least one story, one real life example in LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT that everyone can relate to. I myself know that at least two of the stories reflect events in my life to a T.

Dr. Frederick's stories help the reader to connect with his vision, but it is really the flow of his words that pulls the reader in. This book is not at all written like a dry academic texts or even one of those dry self-help books. No, this is written more like Dr. Frederick is in the room talking with you and only you. As he speaks his words magically appear on the paper. That's really the best way I have to describe it. It really feels like you are curled up in some comfy chair chatting with a good friend. In my opinion, that's one of the best ways to connect with people and I think Dr. Frederick nailed it.

Writing: 10
Interest: 10
Passion: 10
Originality: 10
Characters: 10
Pace: 10
Overall: 60/60 - A

Book Cover: 3/3

This was another moment when I had to think long and hard about what kind of score to give LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT. Those that like to read the entire review can probably already guess that I really loved this book. Those that are more visual and need the score for a quick idea of the greatness of the book, trust me when I say that my brain is melting trying to find some way to give Dr. Frederick's work something other than a perfect score. Frankly, I can't do it.

The Writing in the book is superb. The words flowed easily and quickly into my mind. Having hooked me from the beginning, the Interest was definitely there and there is no doubting the Passion that Dr. Frederick instilled in his book. It's obvious that this is a subject he cares greatly about and this comes through in the pages. As far as Characters and Pace go, the composite stories were fantastic and added another dimension of depth to the book while the words flowed freely and fluidly across the pages. Finally, as far as a non-fiction book goes, the cover was lovely. I adore the colors together and for some reason, find myself constantly looking back at the blue flower on the cover.

If you're not already half way to your local bookstore in search of a copy then you really should be. Shoo! Off with you! Even if you don't think that you have any problems with your emotions, give the book a whirl. I promise you won't be sorry.

Author Interview with Ronald J. Frederick, Ph.D. - LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT

Continuing our LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT blog tour, I'm happy to welcome back Dr. Ronald J. Frederick. Today, Frederick has kindly agreed to answer some questions we put forth. His book, LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT, shows us how to listen to our emotions rather than tuning them out. By working with our emotions and acknowledging them, those of us who seem to have everything but true happiness can stop holding ourselves back and finally allow ourselves to be happy.

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What was your inspiration for writing LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT?

I was inspired to write Living Like You Mean It by my own life-changing experience. I was in my early thirties, had just finished my doctoral studies, and despite having everything going for me, I hit a wall. I was in relationship I frequently questioned and found myself filled with trepidation and fear about moving forward. I ended up in therapy and discovered, rather surprisingly, that the anxiety I was experiencing at the time had so much to do with being uncomfortable with what I really felt deep down inside. I had become so afraid of my emotions, of listening to and trusting my true feelings, that I couldn’t hear the voice of my deepest self buried somewhere inside me—the voice that knew what I wanted, knew what I longed for, knew what felt right to me and what felt wrong. I might have gone on doubting myself forever had I not gotten the help I needed to recognize what, in fact, I really was afraid of and to learn how to overcome my fears, accept and embrace my emotional self, and really connect with others. The experience changed my life. My anxiety decreased, I stopped doubting myself and felt much more confident and in touch with my personal truth. I found it much easier to be emotionally present and felt closer to the people in my life. Ultimately, I found the courage to listen to and trust my heart and move forward, to leave the relationship I was in, and to realize the kind of relationship and life I had dreamed of having.

When you have an experience like that, when your life is changed in such a dramatic way, you want to spread the good stuff around. The more people I’ve been able to help, and the more I witness the dramatic changes that can take place when we develop the ability to be with and share our feelings, the more I have felt compelled to spread the word. I guess you can say that it’s become a mission for me: to help people to wake up to their feelings and get the lives they really want. I wrote this book to help people do just that.

It must be nice to know that others can benefit from your experiences. Did you do any other research for LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT? How did that affect the book?

A part of the “research” for this book came from my own experience which, I believe, made it possible to write from a very personal place of understanding. In addition, my approach is solidly based on cutting-edge findings from the fields of affective neuroscience, brain development, and attachment studies. As a psychologist, I was already familiar with much of this work, but I looked into it more deeply as I sought to flesh out my approach, make sure I had covered all the bases, and to find a way to articulate the main points in a readily accessible way. As a result, the program I suggest, while easy to understand and implement, is not the kind of anecdotal, “quick fix” found in so many self-help books. Instead, it offers tools that have the potential to fundamentally change the way our brain works and truly transform lives.

I would take a tool to continuously have at my disposal over a "quick fix" any day of the week. Do you come across any snags, any road blocks when writing LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT?

I would have to say that the pressure of having to get the book written in a short period of time (eight months) was the most challenging part. I was also working full time (seeing clients, speaking, teaching, etc.) while working on the book. I found it challenging at times to be creative under pressure and, on a few occasions, felt blocked. But, eventually I’d get unstuck, break through, and move forward. I realized, the time constraint ultimately worked in my favor. I mean, there’s always something more you can do or say but eventually you’ve got to let go of the manuscript, surrender to the process, and reassure yourself that you can share whatever other ideas you have in other venues—or another book!

I'm glad you were able to work through the challenges! The end result, at least in my opinion, seems worth it. What is your favorite aspect of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT?

My favorite aspect of Living Like You Mean It has to do with the concept of “emotional mindfulness.” Emotional mindfulness is all about becoming more attuned to our feelings, more aware of what’s going on inside of us as well as the little ways in which we avoid being present with our feelings. The aim of emotional mindfulness is to help us be more consciously aware of and, ultimately, more fully present with our feelings. It’s really what the whole book is about but it wasn’t until my editor challenged me to articulate what exactly it is that I help people develop that the words “emotional mindfulness” popped out of my mouth. It was one of those breakthrough moments in which a conversation prompted me to generate a concept around which all my thoughts then coalesced.

"Emotional mindfulness" - that also gives us a nice key word to wrap our heads around. Is there a message that you hope to get across?

The main message I hope to get across in Living Like You Mean It is that when we’re able to connect with and make good use of the wisdom and power of our emotions, we have the ability to transform our lives. With the right tools and practice, real change can happen. Our lives and relationships can be better. The capacity for change is inside all of us, just waiting to come out.

It seems that LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT has the potential to touch many lives. How are fans responding to your book?

Great. I’ve gotten so many e-mails from people telling me how much they’ve appreciated the book, how it’s helped them to open up in their lives and connect more deeply with others. It’s incredibly gratifying and I’ve been so touched by the positive responses people have been sharing with me. In addition, many of my colleagues have let me know how thrilled they are to now have a book that they can recommend to their clients. Several have called or written to tell me about the amazing changes that are taking place for their clients as they read book. That’s the best!

If someone turned your life into a reference book, what would the title be and what would it be about?

Emotional Mindfulness: How to Embrace Your True Emotional Self and Realize your Full Potential.

I think mine would be something similar to Lack of Time: Where Did My Emotions Go? What do you like or dislike about writing in this genre?

I like writing in this genre because I can write as I speak. I really don’t like writing in an academic context. I find it boring. I want to reach out and connect with the reader. To speak in an easily understandable way, and self-help allows me to do that.

I believe that you achieved your connection with the reader and it made the book that much better. Our readers always like to know, what kind of books do you read or what authors do you like to read?

I’m most always reading a professional book, different writings on subjects like mindfulness, emotion, how to help people grow and change. But, “all work and no play can make Jack a dull boy,” right? So, I’ve usually got some fiction going at the same time. I’m currently reading A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving and loving it. I know, I’m probably the last person to finally read it but…better late than never!

You're not the last; I haven't read it yet! What is your writing routine like? Do you do anything special to warm up, cool down or keep the book going?

While I was working on Living Like You Mean It, I set aside four days a week that I devoted to writing. I’d sit down in front of my computer and force myself to work. Sometimes I’d sit there for hours and only squeeze out a sentence. Fortunately, at other times, I was a little more productive! In addition to those four days a week, I was always carrying my manuscript around and working on it, jotting down ideas in the car, at the gym, wherever I might be. It was my whole life for a while.

Sounds like me and A Journey of Books. Are you working on any other projects currently?

Currently, I’m working on promoting Living Like You Mean It which is pretty much a full-time job. I’m also beginning to develop an audio series based on concepts in the book that will help people experience more joy in their lives.

Anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

Getting a book published has so much to do with being tenacious. For me, it was four years from start to finish—from inception to publication—with many road blocks along the way. I’m so glad that I persevered despite all the rejection, all the hurdles, all the down times. That I reached out to others for help and that I stuck with it as long as I did. I can hardly believe it sometimes when I’m holding the book in my hands that it’s actually come to fruition. It’s been quite a ride. So, don’t despair. Hang in there and keep at it!

And, to learn more about me and Living Like You Mean It, please visit: http://www.livinglikeyoumeanit.com/index.html

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Thank you so much for stopping by to answer our questions! It was a pleasure to get a behind-the-scenes look into the making of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT.

Readers, don't forget to stop by tomorrow for my interview of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT.

Teaser Tuesday - My Forbidden Desire

It's Teaser Tuesday time (hey, it's technically still Tuesday)! Ready for my teaser?

Teaser Tuesday is hosted by Should Be Reading. The rules are fairly simple.

1. Grab your current read and let the book fall open to a random page.

2. Choose two sentences between lines 7-12 and share them.

3. Make sure to post the title and author of the book so that we can all go find it if the teaser catches our interest.

4. Be very careful not to post spoilers! Nobody wants to read a spoiled book.

Easy enough, right?

It's been a little while since I've posted a Teaser Tuesday! I've been so busy reading, reviewing and hosting blog tours that all the little "fun" stuff got stuck in a corner. Well, I decided this week to dust off the daily goodies and get them back up and into action (even if it means staying up late to do it)!

"He didn't say anything, just kept staring at his knife as if he was imagining himself cutting out her heart. What a cheery thought" (pg. 90). MY FORBIDDEN DESIRE by Carolyn Jewel

TO BEGUILE A BEAST Review - Elizabeth Hoyt

A beautiful story and a beautiful cover to boot! Due to the blurb and the gorgeous cover, I was very anxious to read TO BEGUILE A BEAST by Elizabeth Hoyt and let me tell you, it certainly did not disappoint! With vivid imagery and a truly wonderful tale, TO BEGUILE A BEAST was a wonderful, emotional story that really came to life in front of my eyes.

To Beguile a Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Pages: 384
My Recommended Age Group: Adult
Released: May 1, 2009
Other books in series: To Taste Temptation (Book 1), To Seduce a Sinner (Book 2), To Desire a Devil (Book 4 - Released November 2009)

From Hoyt's Website:

CAN A WOUNDED BEAST . . .

Reclusive Sir Alistair Munroe has hidden in his castle ever since
returning from the Colonies, scarred inside and out. But when a mysterious
beauty arrives at his door, the passions he's kept suppressed for years begin to
awaken.


TRUST A BEAUTY WITH A PAST . . .

Running from past mistakes has taken legendary beauty Helen Fitzwilliam
from the luxury of the ton to a crumbling Scottish castle . . . and a job as a
housekeeper. Yet Helen is determined to start a new life and she won't let
dust-or a beast of a man-scare her away.


TO TAME HIS MOST SECRET DESIRES?

Beneath Helen's beautiful façade, Alistair finds a courageous and sensual
woman. A woman who doesn't back away from his surliness-or his scars. But just
as he begins to believe in true love, Helen's secret past threatens to tear them
apart. Now both Beast and Beauty must fight for the one thing neither believed
they could ever find--a happy ever after.

My thoughts:

Sir Alistair Munroe is a recluse living alone in a dirty old castle. When the beautiful Helen Fitzwilliam, along with her two young children, show up on his doorstep one night, his quiet and lonely life are suddenly tossed into a whirlwind of activity. Claiming to be his new housekeeper, despite his say otherwise, Helen creates a life for herself within Alistair's protective castle walls. Despite Alistair's raging temper and disfigured face, she'd rather be within his very filthy walls than outside where her past chases her and threatens to take away everything she loves.

Helen is an extraordinary character. Hoyt bestows Helen with a fiery attitude and strong personality. Although she is a fictional character, Hoyt's writing is so fluid and so vibrant that Helen really jumps off the page. The one thing that I absolute loved about her character was how strong she was and yet how willing she was to allow herself moments where she could feel weakness. Often I find myself gravitating toward books with a strong heroine, but it isn't everyday that I find a female character strong in personality, yet willing to allow someone else to lead. This made Helen much more realistic and I found myself connecting to her actions and emotions as they pulled me through the pages.

If there could be a polar opposite from Helen, it would be Alistair. He is not easy and outgoing like our lovely Helen. In fact, he is a recluse in every definition of the word. Missing an eye and covered in jagged scars, Alistair rarely leaves his castle or seeks human companionship. He is moody, quick to anger and cares little about the state of his castle. His one true love is his writing and the stories he can tell about the beauties that nature holds.

I felt that the contrast between the likable Helen and the beastly Alistair were what made the book completely wonderful. Anytime the two individuals encountered each other we got a delicious taste of tension and Hoyt is a master of tension. There was rarely a slow part in any scene, rarely a time where words were on the page solely for the purpose of taking up room. Every action, every interaction was strategically placed to keep the tension going. This made it quite difficult to set the story down and I found myself going to bed earlier and earlier each night just to get back to the story sooner.

When I wasn't being pulled through the story light a rubber band about to snap, I found myself flooded with emotions. There were times when the pages just raced through my hands as the anticipation drew or other times when I would linger, occasionally rereading sections of tenderness. Every interaction was filled with some emotion, whether happy or sad, delighted or ragingly angered. That was definitely what caught within the first chapter and held me close. The pure emotion that swam between the covers was wonderful and made for a truly enjoyable read.

Fair warning time: TO BEGUILE A BEAST has adult themes and scenes. These scenes are graphic but still done with incredible taste. They add an extra layer of depth to the story and round it out nicely.

Writing: 10
Interest: 10
Passion: 10
Originality: 10
Characters: 10
Pace: 10
Overall: 60/60 - A

Book Cover: 3/3

I stared at the rubric above for a very long time, trying to figure out how I should score TO BEGUILE A BEAST. While I don't purposely drop points just to end up with a lower score, I don't particularly like giving every book a perfect score either. I reserve that for the best of the best, the cream of the crop. It gives me some way to signify that this is an utterly fantastic book. Well, that is exactly where TO BEGUILE A BEAST deserves to be. It was beautiful, from the first page straight through to the last word. The story was engaging and lingered with me days later. It left me dreaming about the characters, a sure sign that this one was a winner.

If you have not yet read TO BEGUILE A BEAST, I do highly recommend that you go out and pick it up. Technically, it is Book 3 in The Legend of the Four Soldiers series but don't let that stop you. I have not yet read the previous books and I don't think it detracted from the story one bit. If you loved Jennifer Haymore's A Hint of Wicked, I think you'll absolutely adore TO BEGUILE A BEAST.

TO BEGUILE A BEAST Winners

The contest for five copies of TO BEGUILE A BEAST by Elizabeth Hoyt is officially over! If you haven't yet read TO BEGUILE A BEAST, check out my review. Feel free to comment and let me know what you think!

Thank you to everyone that entered!

And now to announce the winners. Drum roll please...
Our winners are:

Mishel

Caffey

Scottsgal

Luvdaylilies

Dixie

Ladies, if you would kindly shoot me an email ("Contact" tab at the top right of the blog) with your name and shipping address, we shall get the books out to you!

The winners were randomly chosen using Buzz My Blog's Contest Winner Picker

Now for the answers to the big question: Where is your favorite place to read?

Mishel: My favorite place to read recently would be outside on my back porch. It's quite and when the weather isn't too humid or hot I love to go out there. Otherwise, any quiet room I can find

Caffey: Love to read in my bedroom at the end of the day! No interruptions!

Scottsgal: My fave place to read is floating on a raft in our pool - very relaxing.

Luvdaylilies: I like to read curled up on the sofa when the house is quiet.

Dixie: I love to read anywhere but my favorite spot is at the end of my sofa with my legs up and a cup of coffee nearby.

Cinnamon: When I had a swing, I used to love rocking in the bench swing while I read. Now, my favorite place is anywhere warm and cozy. I do my best reading in bed.

BOUND TO PLEASE Giveaway

There are cozy romances, sweet romances and event spicy romances. Occasionally we find a romance that completely sizzles! Today, I present one such book.

Now through July 6th, we will be holding a contest for five copies of Lilly Feisty's BOUND TO PLEASE. This is a great read those warm summer days when you want an even hotter night.

BOUND TO PLEASE By Lilli Feisty


Publish Date: May 1, 2009




From The Hatchette Book Group's Website:

FROM FANTASY TO ECSTASY

Ruby Scott is a beautiful, quiet event planner who leads an oh-so-respectable life. Yet the things that go on in her secret fantasies are anything but. She has every intention of keeping her hidden desires under wraps-until she meets a gorgeous, hard-muscled man ten years her junior. Mark St. Crow is a gifted, up-and-coming musician who collects erotic art and loves to "play" women as much as his piano. After one night of uninhibited passion, Ruby realizes there's no turning back. But as she surrenders to her deepest needs and lets Mark control every forbidden thrill, her passion for him builds. Can the wild, intoxicating nights they share lead to a love that will last forever?

How to win:

Pay attention as the rules may have changed.

You can do any or all of these to enter the giveaway but the one thing you have to do is leave me a comment including some sort of contact information (email works).

+1 - If your romantic life was a book, what would the title be?
+2 - For following on Blogger (+1 additional if you already follow and for Twitter follows)
+3 - If you post a link to this on your blog (+1 additional for every other place you post about this).
+2 - If you refer someone
+1 - If you tell me who referred you.

Aside from leaving me links and such to go along with your entries, the only other thing I ask is that you keep all of your entries to one comment. Additional comments for reposting this later are fine.

This contest will end July 6th, 2009 at midnight Eastern. Make sure you come back and check to see who won. I won't guarantee to hunt winners down.

Sorry, but this contest is only open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.
We can't ship to PO Boxes so make sure you have an alternate mailing address.

Guest Post with Ronald J. Frederick, Ph.D. - LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT

This week, A Journey of Books will be taking part in a blog tour for LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT: USE THE WISDOM AND POWER OF YOUR EMOTIONS TO GET THE LIFE YOU REALLY WANT by Dr. Ronald J. Frederick. If you haven't yet read this book, I highly recommend it. In it, Frederick answers the big question, "Why is it so hard to live the life we really want?" You can look forward to an interview from him tomorrow and my review of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT on Wednesday. Today, however, it is our pleasure to welcome Frederick to the stage as he gives us a little insight into the writing of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT.

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How have your emotions and feelings affected your life?

In my book, Living Like You Mean It, I talk about my own journey toward overcoming fear and embracing my emotional experience. Here’s one of the experiences I share toward the end of the book:

It was a beautiful day in June. The afternoon sun streamed in through the windows of my sister’s living room, filling it with an amber glow. I sat next to her on the couch, holding her new son, my nephew Theo, only two weeks old. I looked down at this little wonder sleeping in my arms and felt so moved. Not only blessed to be present for this moment, but so grateful to be present in my life.

As I gazed at this little boy, filled with such promise, I thought about how much I had changed. Over the last three years, I’d found the courage to face my fears and open up to a fuller experience of my feelings. It wasn’t easy at first, but the more I was able to honor what was inside me and step into my life in an authentic way, the stronger and more whole I felt. I had stepped through a portal into a new world alive with possibilities that had once seemed out of reach. Now, I was about to move half-way across the country, leave my family and friends, and start a life with someone I dearly loved in a different city. Pretty remarkable, given how much I’d once been held back by fear.

I looked over at my sister and my heart began to ache. Soon, I would have to say goodbye. I wondered how she was feeling about my leaving. I was about to ask but then hesitated. Maybe now’s not the time, I reasoned, what with the new baby and all. But, I knew better. If I let this moment slip by, I’d miss an opportunity to connect more deeply. And, I didn’t want that. I didn’t want there to be anything left unspoken between us. I took a breath to calm myself and said, “So…um…I’m wondering how you’re feeling about me leaving?”

“Not good,” she answered, smiling slightly and then looked away. Silence for a moment. Then, she looked back at me, her eyes filling with tears, and said, “I mean…I’m really going to miss you.”

“I know… I know…” I said, as I reached out to put my hand on hers, tears streaming down my cheeks. “It’s so hard to leave. I’m going to miss you so much.” And we cried together.

I felt so close to my sister in that moment, sitting next to her, our hearts wide open. Saddened, but also so full of love and gratitude. Not one feeling, but several. And space enough for all of it. My life, richly felt. Meaningful in a new and profound way.

Life is full of choices. We can choose to listen to our feelings, or avoid them. We can choose whether to be present with what’s inside us, or numb ourselves out. We can choose whether to open up, speak what’s in our hearts, move closer and connect with the people in our lives, or let fear hold us back.

Every moment is full of the promise of something greater. Greater awareness. Greater vitality. Greater closeness. It’s all within your reach. What will you choose?

To learn more about me and Living Like You Mean It, go to: http://www.livinglikeyoumeanit.com/index.html

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It seems that anymore we are taught to keep our emotions bottled up. It's nice to see an author encouraging us to explore these emotions and what they mean to our lives.

Thanks so much for joining us today Dr. Frederick! Everyone else, don't forget to come back tomorrow when we interview this great author and learn a little bit more about the behind the scenes action of LIVING LIKE YOU MEAN IT.