Sordid Fantasy

Midnight – A Dark Age Dawning Novel – Ellen Connor

2011-01-23T11:59:00.001Z

Queue the vibe of “I’ve got your back, baby,” grit and determining control with a cyan blue cast and the flip side of civilisation, and you have the resulting cover for MIDNIGHT, second in the DARK AGE DAWNING trilogy steeped in apocalyptic heat.

A DARK AGE DAWNING Novel #2

Genre: Apocalyptic Paranormal Romance.

Release: September 2011

Publisher: Berkley Sensation.

Their desire destroys her defenses.
Their love gives him a reason to live.

Three years of wandering the post-apocalyptic wasteland has stripped Dr. Chris Welsh of humanity and hope. He’s a dangerous man now, full of dark energy and yen for violence. A harrowing loss drove him from his home, and he hasn’t stopped moving since. Grim and sardonic, he never found anything worth sticking around for–until now.

Rosa Cortez runs Valle de Bravo, a haven of civilization amid the chaos of the Change. Soldiers take their orders directly from her–the iron hand within a velvet glove. The last thing she needs is a feral loner upsetting the town’s tentative balance. However, for the good of her people, she lets the sexy doctor stay. He evokes a delicious new longing, but she won’t submit to any man.

Tension rises as bloodthirsty raiders strike again and again, bent on possessing Valle and its resources. Together Chris and Rosa battle hellhounds and dust pirates while also fighting desperate attraction. To save them, love must overcome the pain of the past–and build a future in this brutal Dark Age…

Thoughts: From the summary to the big-ass gun cradled in Rosa’s hands, I’m fighting the inevitable appeal I have for it. You can hold the duo accountable for me filing it under the “OMG-Want-Need” tab over on Goodreads.

Interested? Chapter 1 is available to eye up.

A Dark Age Dawning Novel #1

Release: June 2011

Covers Unveiled: Neon Bound – Alyssa Day, Katharine Kerr, Vicki Pettersson, J. M. McDermott, Kelley Armstrong, Shiloh Walker, Nancy Gideon, Larissa Ione

2011-01-17T17:24:00.001Z

Note: Some of these covers may not be final.

VAMPIRE IN ATLANTIS by Alyssa Day.

Warriors of Poseidon #7

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: June 2011

No synopsis as of yet…

Thoughts: More distinctive than the last; hello back full colour spectrum.

Previous Book:

LICENSE TO ENSORCELL by Katharine Kerr.

A Nola O’Grady Novel.

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: February 1st, 2011.

Psychic Agent Nola O'Grady isn't sure returning to San Francisco, and living near her unusual family, is a good idea. Her job, with a psychic agency so obscure even the CIA doesn't know it exists, can be perilous, and she's afraid of the relatives getting involved.

Then the Agency saddles her with Israeli secret agent Ari Nathan, and she has a bigger problem on her hands, because tact and compromise are not Ari's strong points. Their mission is to track down a serial killer obsessed with werewolves. He sees them everywhere and shoots whenever he thinks he has one in his sights. Ari assumes the man's psychotic, but in truth he's murdering actual werewolves. Nola should know. Her younger brother Pat, a lycanthrope, was the first victim.

Can Nola's psychic talents and Ari's skill with guns keep them alive long enough to unravel the greater mystery behind the killings? Can they save the werewolves and the world while stopping Nola's family from running headlong into danger?

Thoughts: Wolf, undertones, rural topped with city landscape; suspense is had from the overall effects in tow with the synopsis.

THE NEON GRAVEYARD by Vicki Pettersson.
Sign of the Zodiac #6.

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: May 31st, 2011.

No summary available as of yet…

Thoughts: The previous two threw me in style, but THE NEON GRAVEYARD earns points for the demonic cast to eyes, plum gradation and slight familiarity with the first in the series.

Previous Novel:

NEVER KNEW ANOTHER by J. M. McDermott.

Dogsland Trilogy #1

Genre: Dark Fantasy.

Release: February 2011

J. M. McDermott delivers the stunning new fantasy novel, Never Knew Another -- a sweeping fantasy novel that revels in the small details of life.

Fugitive Rachel Nolander is a newcomer the city of Dogsland, where the rich throw parties and the poor just do whatever they can to scrape by. Supported by her brother Djoss, she hides out in their squalid apartment, living in fear that someday, someone will find out that she is the child of a demon. Corporal Jona Lord Joni is a demon's child too, but instead of living in fear, he keeps his secret and goes about his life as a cocky, self-assured man of the law. Never Knew Another is the story of how these two outcasts meet.

Thoughts: Coarse and defined meets the potential of those same elements cover-cover. I may venture into this trilogy.

SPELL BOUND by Kelley Armstrong.

Women of the Otherworld Series #12

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: 1st July, 2011

Savannah Levine is in terrible danger, and for once she’s powerless to help herself. At the conclusion of Waking the Witch, Savannah swore that she would give up her powers if it would help a young girl. Little did she know that someone would take her up on that promise.

And now, witch hunting assassins, necromancers, half-demons, and rogue witches all seem to be after her. The threat is not just for Savannah; every member of the Otherworld might be at risk. While most her fellow supernaturals are circling the wagons at a gathering of the council in Miami, Savannah is caught on the road, isolated from those who can protect her and unable to use her vast spell casting talent, the thing she counts on most. In a story that will change the shape of the Otherworld forever, Spell Bound gathers Elena, Clay, Paige, Lucas, Jamie, Hope, and others, who soon learn that the greatest threat to supernaturals just may come from within.

Previous Novel:

Thoughts: Polar colour scheme verse series central character. Not enticing but not overly bad.

HUNTER’S FALL by Shiloh Walker.

Hunters #13

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: June 7th, 2011

UNKNOWN PAST

Something strange is happening to Nessa. Ever since she survived a near-death experience she’s not exactly who she used to be—and enjoying every minute of it. Then she’s called upon to go to battle against darkness. If only she could remember why.

UNEXPECTED LOVER

Dominic is having his own problems with memory, sanity, and hallucinations. Sent to Excelsior, the covert Hunter training facility, he senses a female presence that seems so hauntingly familiar. That’s because he and Nessa share a forgotten past.

UNSEEN EVIL

As Nessa and Dominic regain their memories, their strange mission against evil becomes clearer. And all the more dangerous because whether they should trust each other is the still the greatest unknown of all.

Previous Novel:

Thoughts: Ragged wear, modern road and a mystery punched with defiance. All blended together and - I want. Besides, Shiloh Walker always hits a button with me.

BOUND BY MOONLIGHT by Nancy Gideon.

by Moonlight #4

Preliminary Cover Art.

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: August 2011

They swore they’d be together forever…

Detective Charlotte Caissie is suddenly sharing drawer space and making media news with her shape-shifter lover Max Savoie. Knowing the reformed mobster is determined to be accepted by her peers, how can she ask him to return to his criminal roots to help her solve a complex case?

But those they trust the most…

Going undercover to find the vicious serial killer who kidnapped a colleague’s daughter, Cee Cee is caught between the partner whose integrity she relies on and her fiercely possessive lover. In calling on Max to use his preternatural talents to aide a hated enemy, she crosses a line that strains their relationship to its limits.

Will do anything to tear them apart.

With his secret spreading beyond those he can trust, Max is forced to make dangerous alliances to protect his family and his clan. The only certainty he has is his love for his human mate, until the loyalties that define them threaten to divide them forever.

Previous Novel:

Thoughts: Put the covers of this series side by side and they just bleed together. Not one for the overused-abused originality.

ETERNAL RIDER by Larissa Ione.

A Lords of Deliverance Novel.

Edition: UK

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: 7th April, 2011

The prophecies were there but no one listened. Until now. They are the Lords of Deliverance and they have the power to usher in Doomsday ...or prevent it.

His name is Ares, and the fate of mankind rests on his powerful shoulders. If he falls to the forces of evil, the world falls too. As one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, he is far stronger than any mortal, but even he cannot fight his destiny forever. Not when his own brother plots against him.

Yet there is one last hope. Gifted in a way other humans can't - or won't - understand, Cara Thornhart is the key to both this Horseman's safety and his doom. But involving Cara will prove treacherous, even beyond the maddening, dangerous desire that seizes them the moment they meet. For staving off eternal darkness could have a staggering cost: Cara's life.

US Edition:

Thoughts: Dude actually has a horse on this cover. I’m stunned – partially. *Rejoice.* But the pink with anything masculine makes me cringe inside. *Dies a little.* Even natural lighting. My preference? Points to it’s darker counterpart. ---->

But it may grow on me. Lots of potential. Since I half love it already.

Another Year Gone, Another Began:

2010-12-31T23:59:00.000Z

Goodbye 2010. 2011 will definitely bite you on the ass.

On the subject of that something peeps set up at this time of year - revolutions, ouch - I'm going to loosely nudge myself, take baby steps if you will, on being more open in the year ahead. Being an innately private person can do wonders. Sometimes. Not all the time. (Yes, I do need the reminder...)

In the realm of reading, my top 3 reads of 2010 (not restricted to the year published):

SIN UNDONE by Larissa Ione - Dark, emotion splattered, molten heat, cynical and violent. What more could this girl ask for?

THE DARKEST PASSION by Gena Showalter - Lusty, action-riddled, a little twisted. Nom, nom.

BRANDED BY FIRE by Nalini Singh - Brutal, brooding, sultry, conflicted... I loved it all....

Have one hell of a Happy New Year peeps!

Merry Christmas Y’all!

2010-12-25T22:27:00.000Z

The picture says it all. But I’m going to holler it again anyway. A very Merry Christmas to all you readers, authors and people throughout the publishing industry today. And to those who aren’t too!

Covers Unveiled: Lover Warrior – J. R. Ward, Devon Monk, Gena Showalter, Deidre Knight, Deborah Cooke, Cynthia Eden, Jana Oliver, Denise Rossetti

2010-12-19T16:06:00.000Z

Note: Some of theses covers may not be final.

LOVER UNLEASHED by J. R. Ward.

Black Dagger Brotherhood #9

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: March 29th, 2011.

Payne, twin sister of Vishous, is cut from the same dark, seductive cloth as her brother. Imprisoned for eons by their mother, the Scribe Virgin, she finally frees herself-only to face a devastating injury. Manuel Manello, M.D., is drafted by the Brotherhood to save her as only he can-but when the human surgeon and the vampire warrior meet, their two worlds collide in the face of their undeniable passion. With so much working against them, can love prove stronger than the birthright and the biology that separates them?

Previous Book:

Thoughts: The intensity of the females gaze – and the possibility of teeth sunk into flesh – grants an almost “come hither” look.

DEAD IRON by Devon Monk.

Genre: Steampunk.

Release: July 5, 2011

Welcome to a new America that is built on blood, sweat, and gears...

In steam age America, men, monsters, machines, and magic battle for the same scrap of earth and sky. In this chaos, bounty hunter Cedar Hunt rides, cursed by lycanthropy and carrying the guilt of his brother’s death. Then he’s offered hope that his brother may yet survive. All he has to do is find the Holder: a powerful device created by mad devisers—and now in the hands of an ancient Strange who was banished to walk this Earth.

In a land shaped by magic, steam, and iron, where the only things a man can count on are his guns, gears, and grit, Cedar will have to depend on all three if he’s going to save his brother and reclaim his soul once and for all...

Thoughts: Neutral backdrop, metal hues, casual aggressiveness – a literal representation of plot and devices mentioned on the blurb…. I’m keeping tabs.

THE DARKEST SECRET by Gena Showalter.

Lords of the Underworld #7

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: April 1st, 2011

Keeper of the demon of Secrets, Amun can manipulate the darkest thoughts of anyone nearby. But when new demons possess him, the immortal warrior must be chained and isolated to protect those he loves. Death is his only hope of release—until he meets Haidee, a fellow prisoner whose beauty and hidden vulnerability draw him into a reckless test of his loyalty…. Haidee is an infamous demon assassin, raised to despise Amun’s kind. Yet how can she hate the man whose touch sets her aflame? But to save him, she must give herself body and soul…and face the wrath of a powerful adversary sworn to destroy her.

Previous Novel:

Thoughts: The turmoil, light and dark elements of the character showcased - I'm loving the suggestive symbolism captured.

RED MORTAL by Deidre Knight.

Gods of Midnight #4

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: April 5th, 2011.

No synopsis as of yet…

Thoughts: Red-gold canvass, mythological setting. Too much though and it could serve like the consequence of the over-indulgence of chocolate.

Previous Novel:

DARKFIRE KISS by Deborah Cooke.

Dragonfire Novel #6

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: May 3rd, 2011.

For one woman, he will risk more than his life…

Rafferty Powell has exchanged challenge coins with his arch-nemesis Magnus Montmorency, and their next battle will be their last. But Rafferty never expected to meet a woman whose desire for Magnus’ downfall matches his own—and whose presence sparks Rafferty’s long-awaited firestorm.

Since facing her own mortality, investigative reporter Melissa Smith has resolved to live without fear. She’s determined to make the seemingly untouchable Magnus pay for his role in ending her friend’s life – no matter the price to herself.

When her quest entwines with Rafferty’s, Melissa finds herself risking more than she ever thought possible. Because the heat between them unleashes the darkfire—an awesome force of Pyr legend, one that won’t be sated until everything they know has been tested and remade.

Previous Book:

Thoughts: Vibrant, graveyard backdrop; the hint of a desolation rather snag-worthy.

NEVER CRY WOLF by Cynthia Eden.

Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense.

Release: June 28, 2011.

RUNNING WITH A DANGEROUS CROWD

Lucas Simone is not the kind of guy you mess with. He’s big, he’s strong, and his eyes hint at a wilder side most women can’t handle. Of course, that’s because his predatory instincts are no metaphor—he’s a genuine Grade-A top-quality werewolf, tough enough to fight his way to dominance over the scariest pack on the West Coast. There’s only one chink in his armor. Unlike most alpha dogs, Lucas has a reputation for protecting the weak and innocent.

Sarah King is counting on that protective impulse—it’s the only thing standing between her and certain death. There are only two problems: one, she’s not quite as innocent as she’d like Lucas to believe. And two, if he doesn’t stop stoking Sarah’s animal lust, it’s only a matter of time before her own wild side gets unleashed…

Thoughts: Has an almost “old” feel to it, aided by the pastel shades. Whilst pastel shades rarely appeal to me, the composition of the piece is nice.

THE DEMON TRAPPER’S DAUGHTER by Jana Oliver.

Demon Trappers #1

Genre: Young Adult Urban Fantasy.

Release: February 1st, 2011

Demon Trapper Riley Blackthorne just needs a chance to prove herself – and that's exactly what Lucifer is counting on.

It’s the year 2018, and with human society seriously disrupted by the economic upheavals of the previous decade, Lucifer has increased the number of demons in all major cities. Atlanta is no exception. Fortunately, humans are protected by Demon Trappers, who work to keep homes and streets safe from the things that go bump in the night. Seventeen-year-old Riley, only daughter of legendary Demon Trapper Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father’s footsteps. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing attraction to fellow Trapper apprentice, Simon, Riley’s out saving citizens from Grade One Hellspawn. Business as usual, really, for a demon-trapping teen. When a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood, she realizes that she’s caught in the middle of a battle between Heaven and Hell.

Thoughts: Another symbolic representation: Red haze, clear cut sky – blood and purity marred perhaps? I’m one for the contrast.

THE LONE WARRIOR by Denise Rossetti.

Four-Sided Pentacles #3

Genre: Erotic Fantasy Romance.

Release: May 3, 2011.

A new paranormal romance of demon warriors, naked revenge, and pure ecstasy.

Walker, a shaman, has dedicated his life to hunting the demon warriors who destroyed his tribe. But his latest captive is a daring and new kind of challenge: a beautiful, dangerous, and irresistible assassin.

Thoughts: Not much liking this one. But the mini summary piqued my interest...

Previous Book:

SINFUL MAGIC by Jennifer Lyon.

Wing Slayer Novel #

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: May 24th, 2011

No synopsis available as of yet…

Thoughts - First impression: The blue shade is a notch too intense for my liking; I feel it scrubs over some of the details to a degree. Side-note: I have yet to read any in this series – and since this is Key’s story (his interview hooked my interest much), I really need to invest ASAP.

Previous Book:

Covers Unveiled: Changing Instinct – Burton, Adair, Kenyon, Tyler, Butcher, Walker, Bast, D’Amario, Hill.

2010-12-16T13:12:00.000Z

CHANGING THE GAME by Jaci Burton.

A PLAY-BY-PLAY Novel #2

Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance

Release: September 2011

Most people play by the rules. Gavin and Liz aren’t most people…

Win at any cost. That’s always been the mantra of sports agent Liz Darnell. When she carries things too far and risks losing her number-one client, baseball pro Gavin Riley, Liz realizes that she’ll have to work extra innings to win him back. It might not be too much of a stretch. She’s had a thing for this player’s moves since she first laid on eyes on him, and by the looks of it, he wants her just as bad.

Gavin’s more than ready—especially when Liz is offering herself as part of the bargain. And as much of her as Gavin wants. For added thrills, he decides to throw a little curve ball Liz’s way to see just how far she’s truly willing to go to keep him as a client. But when love unexpectedly enters the playing field, neither Liz nor Gavin are ready for the biggest game-changer of them all.

Previous Novel:

Release: February 2010

Thoughts: *Admires the view.* In addition to the view, the font design paired with the warm backdrop provides a good balance of shades.

HUSH by Cherry Adair.

Appears to be a revised cover.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: April 26th, 2011.

Black Magic: There’s a razor thin line between love and hate, light and dark, and for wizards, interior designer Sara Temple and geologist and Aequitas warrior Jackson Slater, the past and the present collide. Called into service by the Wizard Council to investigate a strange and deadly disease infecting wizards and stealing their powers, Jack and Sara find that both the answer and the problem may lie along the same magical leyline.

Dangerous Magic: Determined to destroy the powerful Omnivatic wizard responsible for the murder of his brother, Zackary Stark travels to Italy. To destroy his enemy, Zach must penetrate the deepest recesses of the Crystal Divinity. To achieve his ultimate goal, he must gain the trust of the wizard’s cold and beautiful step daughter. But River MacKay has her own deadly agenda, and the cat and mouse game they play will prove deadly for one, or both, of them.

Thoughts: Appears to be a two in one book, but no concrete information as of yet.

Previous novel and original cover:

BORN OF SHADOWS by Sherrilyn Kenyon.

A LEGUE NOVEL #4

Genre: Sci-fi Paranormal Romance

Release: April 4th, 2011

In the universe where the League is law, most live in fear. We fight back. Welcome to a world where corrupt assassination politics dominate everyone. It's kill or be killed.

Caillen's destiny was to become the next generation of Dagan smugglers. Until fate intervenes. Suddenly, his life is not his own and his loyalties are split in a way he could never have imagined. In a world where everything's earned and nothing is given, Desideria has battled to have a place of honor in her mother's Royal Guard. But when she uncovers the plot to kill her mother and overthrow her government, she knows she has to move quickly to prove it.

Unfortunately, her only hope is a man whose past is as jaded as his present. Now they must find common ground to work together or more than just their lives will be forfeit. Their worlds and families will be enslaved.

Thoughts: I tend to get irritated when a series gets a cover change mid-way through. This time? Isn’t any different. I twitch when I see that the covers don’t connect on my shelf.

Previous Novels:

IN THE AIR TONIGHT by Stephanie Tyler.

Shadow Force #3

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release: August 2011

No cover copy as of yet.

Thoughts: Purple hue, matching eyes. Different.

Previous Novels:

LIVING ON THE EDGE by Shannon K. Butcher.

An Edge Novel.

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release: March 2011

After a devastating injury, Lucas Ramsay knows he's finished as a soldier. But when the general who saved his life asks him for a favor, he says yes. All Lucas has to do is keep the general's daughter from getting on a plane to Colombia -- which is easier said than done...

Independent to the core, Sloane Gideon is a member of the Edge-a group of mercenaries for hire. But she's not on the clock for this mission. Her best friend is being held by a vicious drug lord, and Sloane must rescue her -- no matter how many handsome ex-soldiers her father sends to dissuade her.

With little choice, Lucas tracks Sloane to Colombia-where she reluctantly allows him to aid her in her search. But as they grow closer to the target, they grow closer to each other. And before the battle is over, both will have to decide just what they are willing to fight for...

Thoughts: Nice composition and font work.

BEG ME by Shiloh Walker.

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

Release: Available via Smashwords & Kindle now.

Format: E-book.

Beg me…there had been a time when those words made her burn with desire. But now, there was only fear.

Once, Tania Sinclair’s life was almost perfect…oh, it had its ups and downs but she was happily married to a guy that adored her, one who had no problem indulging every kinky fantasy she ever had. But a couple of tragedies later, she’s barely holding it together. A car accident took away her husband, and an attack from somebody she should have been able to trust has shaken not only her confidence, but it’s also stripped away her fantasies and even made it painful to look back on her memories of her husband without fear.

Two years after her attack, Tania is determined to take her life back and the first step is taking back herself…her fantasies, her dreams, her memories. There’s only one person she can trust to do it, too. One person she wants enough…Drake Bennett, her husband’s best friend.

Falling for your best friend’s wife—never smart. Drake’s watched Tania quietly for years, watched her…wanted her, knowing he’d never have her. First, she was taken. And then, that night two years ago—a night that still scars her, a night that’s left bruises on her that still haven’t healed. He does what he can, though, because he loves her too much not to. He’s her friend, there when she needs him.

And now she needs him. She’s asked him for a favor…one that just about blows his mind…

Warning: This book involves light bondage play, rape fantasy & role-playing. The acts between the hero & heroine are consensual, but they may not be ideal for all readers…

Thoughts: Genre and content conveyed. The absence of colour slashed with red type makes for a distinction amongst other designs.

JADED by Anya Bast.

Sequel to JEWELED.

Genre: Fantasy Historical Erotic Romance.

Release: June 7th, 2011

One woman who’s sworn never to love again.

Two men who can’t help but desire her.

And the magic and passion that binds them together…

Haunted by a traumatic attack when she was eighteen, Lilya Orensdaughter has become a courtesan in the Temple of Dreams, determined to never again lose control. But she will do anything for Byron Andropov, the man who nursed her back to health all those years ago—and who now wants her to help his friend Alek Chaikoveii come to terms with the powerful magick he possesses.

In Alek, Lilya finds a kindred spirit. The attraction between them is immediate, and soon Lilya surrenders to nights of unimaginable ecstasy. But she can’t forget Byron, who’s concealed his feelings for Lilya because he believed she would never love again. As tensions escalate between the two men who are vying for Lilya’s heart, Lilya finds herself torn between her desire for the man who saved her, and the man whose soul resembles her own—only to discover that in the world of unrestrained passion there are no boundaries. If only you’re willing to give up control…

Previous Book: JEWELED

Release: 2nd November 2010

Thoughts: I’ll always prefer the cover for JEWELED rather than JADED. Maybe it’s the fancy jewel set in her back or the composition of the piece. Either way, the above cover just doesn’t fully agree with me.

SHEWOLF by Teresa D’Amario.

True Mate Series.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: Available now.

Format: Available in e-book, to be released in print.

A small town veterinarian has a big time problem. She's not human.

Plagued as a child with an extra-sensitive sense of smell, strength, and eyesight, Anna Callaway always thought she was special. But she didn't understand how special until she met Kieran Hunter.

He insists they are True Mates, but he's not human either. He's wolven.

Kieran is a protector of his race. No longer the Alpha of his pack, he spends his time searching out and punishing any who may reveal their race to humans. While patrolling, he finds two wolven about to kidnap Anna. He battles to protect her, but is surprised to find himself drawn to her in a way he never expected.

The couple must learn to deal with their differences before they can address their similarities. But when three men kidnap Anna, she must decide if she is to embrace the wolven way of life, or return to her quiet existence. And whether to abandon the man who claims her as his True Mate.

E-book version:

Thoughts: Simple, bold, effective. Denotes the wilderness and innocence hinted at in the summary. A definite improvement from the original.

VAMPIRE INSTINCT by Joey W. Hill.

A VAMPIRE QUEEN Novel #7

Genre: Erotic Romance.

Release: July 15th, 2011

As servant to vampire mistress Lady Daniela, Elisa’s devotion is unwavering—except for one shocking request: destroy the children entrusted in her care. Elisa’s young charges are vampires of such potent desires as to belie their youth—given to a reckless bloodlust that makes their assimilation into the human world impossible. But there is one desperate option.

His name is Malachi, a Native American vampire who is a legend for his work with rehabilitating feline predators. With his primal understanding of the rules of survival, he is the fledglings’ last hope. But it is Elisa who is feeling the heat of his irresistible animal instincts. Now, as Malachi struggles to control the children’s impulses, he opens himself up to those of Elisa—and the passion they all share for the night could seal their fates forever.

Thoughts: Contains a more subtle note of that on-going possessiveness that links the series covers together. Not what I expected, but it grows on me each time I eye it up.

VAMPIRE QUEEN Novels #1 - #6:

Covers Unveiled: Enemy at Midnight – Marcella Burnard, Lora Leigh, Nalini Singh, Sydney Croft, Jessa Slade, Hannah Jayne, Ann Aguirre, C. C. Hunter

2010-12-15T00:32:00.000Z

Note: Some of these covers may not be final.

ENEMY GAMES by Marcella Burnard.

Genre: Science Fiction Romance

Release: Spring 2011

Kidnapped while combating a devastating plague, Jayleia Durante fights to resist the attractive Major Damen Sindrivik, an officer from a rival government’s spy corps. But with her spymaster father missing, and mercenaries hot on her trail, Jayleia must join forces with the magnetic, charming and manipulative spy. She must see past her desire and remember that his single-minded agenda is for the protection of the empire - not her or her people.

Damen knows a shadowy network of traitors has allied with the violent Chekydran, and that Jayleia’s father holds the key to dismantling that web. She becomes his only lead in a circuitous round of hide and seek and despite their opposing sides, he can’t resist her. Too bad his instincts tell him Jayleia is lying to him.

Now Jayleia and Damen must find the love to match their passion and end the war or they’ll become the prey of the traitors they stalk, and one species’ civil war will consume the galaxy.

Connected Novel:

Thoughts: I’m taken with it, just not enthralled. Holds a tenuous balance between projecting Urban Fantasy and Sci-Fi.

NAVARRO’S PROMISE by Lora Leigh.

Breeds #23

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: April 5th, 2011.

You wanted to know more about Cassie? Her friendships, her interactions, the nightmares that haunt her?

In NAVARRO'S PROMISE you once again meet Mika Toler, the friend that has become as close to her as a sister. The daughter of her father's best friend. The one person who knows the nightmares she suffers. And now she's in danger.

Only Navarro, the charming, secretive, mysterious Wolf Breed that will not just endanger her further, but could be her only hope of salvation.

Thoughts: Repetitive. A re-do needs to be done.

Previous Novels:

KISS OF SNOW by Nalini Singh.

Psy-Changeling series #10.

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: July 1st, 2011

The first in Singh’s Psy-Changeling series to be released in hardback, followed six months later by the paperback edition. (IMO, Sienna had *better* be the heroine. Term me crest fallen if not.)

Update: (<—Ahem. Disaster. Averted.)

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s exhilarating world of shapeshifters and psychics is “paranormal romance at its best” (Publishers Weekly). Now comes the story of an alpha wolf named Hawke used to getting exactly what he wants--and of the only woman who dares tangle with him.

Since the moment of her defection from the PsyNet and into the SnowDancer wolf pack, Sienna Lauren has had one weakness. Hawke. Alpha and dangerous, he compels her to madness.

Hawke is used to walking alone, having lost the woman who would’ve been his mate long ago. But Sienna fascinates the primal heart of him, even as he tells himself she is far too young to handle the wild fury of the wolf.

Then Sienna changes the rules and suddenly, there is no more distance, only the most intimate of battles between two people who were never meant to meet. Yet as they strip away each other’s secrets in a storm of raw emotion, they must also ready themselves for a far more vicious fight…

A deadly enemy is out to destroy SnowDancer, striking at everything they hold dear, but it is Sienna’s darkest secret that may yet savage the pack that is her home…and the alpha who is its heartbeat…

Thoughts: I like the font switch for Singh’s name, but the wolf overlapping jeans? No... Regardless, I’d buy this one for the content alone.

Previous Novels:

TAKEN BY FIRE by Sydney Croft.

ACRO #6

Genre: Erotic Romance

Release: June 2011

HIS MISSION WAS TO TAKE HER OUT.

BUT DESIRE GOT IN THE WAY.

A product of genetic manipulation, Melanie Milan shares a body with her malevolent sister Phoebe. A sleek, blonde predator with a heart of pure darkness, Phoebe puts their body through the wicked underbelly of sex for thrills—when she’s not igniting her pyrokinetic skills for an evil organization bent on taking over the world. Melanie rarely gets out to play—much less fall in love. But that changes when rival ACRO agent Stryker Wills shows up, with a mission to take out the woman who torched his partner.

An operative with rare abilities, Stryker soon realizes that the woman he’s about to kill isn’t the murderous fire starter he’s hunting. But he does want her. Melanie, with the power to ice anything in her path, is heating things up in ways that are setting his blood on fire. As long as Melanie stays in control, she is his best ally to bring down her sister and stop hellish havoc from being unleashed. Walking a tightrope of longing and hate, Stryker and Melanie begin to understand that true power lies in sweet surrender to each other, to the fire between them, to the erotic adventure that’s joined their hearts and abilities to become their salvation—and perhaps the world’s.

Thoughts: The relation between cover and heroine? Love.

Previous ACRO Novel:

VOWED IN SHADOWS by Jessa Slade.

A Novel of The Marked Souls #3

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance.

Release: April 2011

No synopsis is currently floating throughout the interweb, but Slade chalked up a summation of what to expect in regards to content and characters over at Silk and Shadows:

We’ve met Jonah briefly in SEDUCED BY SHADOWS and FORGED OF SHADOWS. This righteous missionary man lost his wife when he was possessed, and he can’t imagine ever loving again. So when the repentant demon within him sets him on the path of rampant unbound etheric energies that leads him straight to the Naughty Nymphette — dancing tonight at the Shimmy Shack! — he knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he will never, ever, in an eternity fall in love as Archer and Liam did before him.

But he is a man of strong convictions, and he’ll do whatever it takes to make sure the Chicago league of immortal demon-possessed warriors bring this newest fighter to their side. And by “do whatever it takes,” I include doing her…

Thoughts: I have eyes all for the elements on this one. (And I appreciate the hell out of the tag line.)

Previous Novels:

UNDER WRAPS by Hannah Jayne.

The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles #1

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: March 1st, 2010.

Sick of wrongful-death lawsuits every time a full moon comes around?

Call the Underworld Detection Agency.

As a human immune to magic, Sophie Lawson can help everyone from banshee to zombie transition into normal, everyday San Francisco life. With a handsome werewolf as her UDA boss and a fashionista vampire for a roommate, Sophie knows everything there is to know about the undead, the unseen, and the uncanny…

Until a rash of gruesome murders has demons and mortals running for cover, and Sophie finds herself playing sidekick to detective Parker Hayes. Dodging raging bloodsuckers, bad-tempered fairies, and love-struck trolls is one thing. But when Sophie discovers Parker isn’t what he seems, she’s got only one chance to figure out whom to trust. Because an evil hiding in plain sight is closing in…and about to make one wisecracking human its means to ultimate power…

Thoughts: The summary – along with the cover – manoeuvred this one into my grab-it-and-test-the-waters list.

SHADY LADY by Ann Aguirre.

Corine Solomon #3

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: April 5th, 2011

Edition: US

I’d spent my whole life settling, trying not to attract attention, and generally doing whatever it took to keep other people happy. I didn’t want to do that again. Not when I was finally comfortable in my own skin. Sure, there were certain challenges, like a drug lord who wanted me dead, and the fact that I owed a demon a debt that he could call due at any moment. But everybody’s got problems, right?

Whenever Corine Solomon touches an object, she immediately knows its history. But her own future concerns her more and more. Now back in Mexico, she’s running her pawnshop and trying to get a handle on her strange new powers, for she might need them. And soon.

Then former ally Kel Ferguson walks through her door. Heavily muscled and tattooed, Kel looks like a convict but calls himself a holy warrior. This time, he carries a warning for Corine: the Montoya cartel is coming for her—but they don’t just pack automatic weapons. The Montoyas use warlocks, shamans, voodoo priests—anything to terminate trouble. And Corine has become enemy number one…

Previous CORINE SOLOMON Novels:

UF Alert: The titles of Corine Soloman novels #4 and #5, DEVIL’S PUNCH and BLOODY MARIA are slotted for release April 2012 and April 2013.

Thoughts: The best of the US editions… and it may even rival the UK version.

BORN AT MIDNIGHT by C. C. Hunter.

A SHADOW FALLS Novel #1

Genre: Paranormal, Young Adult.

Release: March 29th, 2011

Kylie Galen has had a lot of crap tossed in her lap lately. Her parents are getting a divorce for who the heck knows why. Her boyfriend broke up with her because she wouldn't put out. And her grandmother died because . . . well, older people do that. But now, Kylie's acquired a stalker and she hasn't a clue what he wants or how to get rid of him . . . and she really wants to get rid of him because apparently she's the only one who sees him. Thinking she may be losing it, her parents send her off to see a psychologist who gets Kylie sent to Shadow Falls Camp. Kylie and her parents think it's a camp for troubled teens.

They thought wrong.

Kylie's surrounded by vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches and shapeshifters. And if she believes what they tell her, she's one of them. They're just not sure exactly how she fits in. As Kylie struggles to cope with the realization that these creatures even exist, and the fact that she might not be human, she's got two hot guys, a werewolf and a half-fairy vying for her attention. And they can just keep vying. Kylie's determined that before she lets her heart loose on love, she needs to unearth the truth. What does the ghost want? Who can and can't she trust? And most of all . . . What is she?

Thoughts: Atmospheric, feminine with a touch of mystery. I quite like.

Book Trailer: ENCLAVE by Ann Aguirre

2010-12-10T23:52:00.000Z

One atmospheric blend of post-apocalyptic setting, preternatural creatures, hint of death and a smoulder of passion. Two words: Am buying.

ENCLAVE by Ann Aguirre.

Release: April 12, 2011.

Genre: Dystopian Post-Apocalyptic YA

WELCOME TO THE APOCALYPSE.
In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember.

As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning.

Down below, deviation from the rules is punished swiftly and harshly, and Fade doesn’t like following orders. At first she thinks he’s crazy, but as death stalks their sanctuary, and it becomes clear the elders don’t always know best, Deuce wonders if Fade might be telling the truth. Her partner confuses her; she’s never known a boy like him before, as prone to touching her gently as using his knives with feral grace.

As Deuce’s perception shifts, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival. The mindless Freaks, once considered a threat only due to their sheer numbers, show signs of cunning and strategy… but the elders refuse to heed any warnings. Despite imminent disaster, the enclave puts their faith in strictures and sacrifice instead. No matter how she tries, Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she’s ever known.

Covers Unveiled: Blood Magic – Karin Tabke, R. G. Alexander, Sheri Whitefeather, Karen Chance, Kat Richardson, Michelle Rowen, J. N. Duncan, Kalayna Price, Devon Monk, Suzanne McLeod

2010-12-08T22:24:00.002Z

Note: Some of these covers may not be final.

BLOOD LAW by Karin Tabke.

A Blood Moon Rising Novel; first in a trilogy featuring werewolves.

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance.

Release: May 3, 2011

As undisputed Alpha, Rafael must choose a life mate to preserve the dominance of his Lycan pack. He never suspected his mate would be a human, the same wounded girl-woman he seduced from the brink of death.

Falon is a dangerous combination of Lycan and
Slayer—bred to destroy his kind. She’s also a
mesmerizing beauty whose sensuality tempts the
warrior to take risks. Surrendering to their primal
heat could destroy them both… for a vengeful foe
awaits to take what is rightfully his by Blood Law.

Thoughts: Silk and flesh, woman and man. I favour the intimate and rough contrasts showcased here.

THREE SINFUL WISHES by R. G. Alexander.

Genre: Erotic Romance.

Release: June 7, 2011.

In hot and steamy Sedona, Arizona, three women are about to be granted their most intimate desires.

Dani, Bailey, and Kaya think they know what they want from life—success, independence, and a gorgeous man to share their beds—but when they perform an old wish-making ritual together, each of them gets a sinful surprise.

In these three interrelated love stories, these women discover that two is company... and three is even better.

Connected Book:

Thoughts: A possibly guiding star matched with sin colours, a turquoise tint and a familiar boxed in (but not crowded) design that stamped POSSESS ME which runs in the same vein of genre.

MYSTERIA NIGHTS by P. C. Cast, Mary Janice Davidson, Susan Grant and Gena Showalter.

Genre: Paranormal Romance.

Release: July 5, 2011.

Edition: 2-in-1 edition combining the novellas within Mysteria and Mysteria Lane.

Welcome to Mysteria, Colorado, home to a vegan
vampire, a neighborly werewolf, a pair of sisterly
witches, a demon nanny, and more. Passions run
high in this hot two-in-one omnibus edition of
Mysteria and Mysteria Lane.

Previous Books/Other Editions:

Thoughts: Too busy for me. I prefer the art of the more recently released, Mysteria Lane for the balance struck between less elements and techniques.

DEMONIC by Sheri Whitefeather.

Genre: Erotic Romance.

Release: August 2, 2011.

Some men are so dark, so dangerous, and so exciting it’s just not humanly possible...

Writer Jane Brooks enlists her two friends, Emily and Suzanne, to help research an article by combing an underground sex club where patrons masquerade as supernatural beings and engage in the most bizarre erotic games imaginable—and unimaginable. Then three men disguised as demons convince Jane and her friends to become more than spectators.

They can’t say no to such powerful, demanding,
desirable strangers. But is it really just a masquerade?

Thoughts: A trio of fire and shadow with an obscurity of features. The impact created overall threw this one into my appreciative side of symbolism and colour.

HUNT THE MOON by Karen Chance.

Cassie Palmer Novel #5

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: June 2011.

Edition: US

No synopsis as of yet…

Sample the first chapter of Hunt the Moon….

Thoughts: When the heck do you see snow on a cover? Yet another beauty gracing the pages of a Cassie Palmer novel.

Previous Books:

DOWNPOUR by Kat Richardson.

Greywalker Novel #6.

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: August 2, 2011.

After being shot in the back and dying—again— Greywalker Harper Blaine’s only respite from the chaos is her work. But while conducting a pre-trial investigation in the Olympic Peninsula, she sees a ghostly car accident whose victim insists that he was murdered and that the nearby community of Sunset. Lakes is to blame.

Harper soon learns that the icy waters of the lake
hide a terrible power, and a host of hellish beings
under the thrall of a sinister cabal that will use the
darkest of arts to achieve their fiendish ends…

Previous Books:

Thoughts: Gritty, dark, a smudge of moon but not my favourite of the bunch. Hint: Labyrinth vs. Underground.

BLOODLUST by Michelle Rowen.

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance.

Release: July 5, 2011.

No synopsis as of yet.

Thoughts: Dim, sketchy tones with a heroine more intense but less younger-looking as on the last cover.

Previous Books:

DEADWORLD by J. N. Duncan.

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: April 2011

She’s as tough as anything haunting Chicago’s streets. But to deal with an inhuman power that won’t stay buried, this FBI agent needs help that comes at an immortal price…

Jackie Rutledge has seen her share of supernatural killers. But her latest murder case is what recurring nightmares are made of. Brutally exsanguinated human victims, vanishing-into-the-ether evidence, and a city on the edge of panic mean that she and her psychic partner, Laurel, are going to need more than just backup …

So Jackie is fine with any help rugged P.I. Nick Anderson can give—even if that includes the impish ghost and sexy vampire who make up his team. But Nick is hiding secrets of his own. And Jackie’s investigation has plunged them both into a vengeful game reaching back centuries—and up against a malevolent force hungry for more than just victory…

Thoughts: Gun, chick and moon – one seemingly standard protocol for UF covers with flare. The tag line attached grabbed my attention too.

GRAVE DANCE by Kalayna Price.

Alex Craft Novel #2

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: July 5th, 2011.

No synopsis as of yet.

Thoughts: The splash of colour adds vibrancy whilst retaining the same air of mystery with the grey-scaled surroundings as the first.

Previous Book:

MAGIC ON THE HUNT by Devon Monk.

Allie Beckstrom #6

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: April 5th, 2011

No synopsis as of yet.

Thoughts: Sword in casual hold, vapour light wisps present – I prefer this cover to any others on previous installments within the series.

Previous Books:

THE BITTER SEED OF MAGIC by Suzanne McLeod.

Spellcrackers.com #3

Genre: Urban Fantasy.

Release: February 17th, 2011

On the surface, Genny's life seems ripple-free right now. Finn, her sexy boss, has stopped pushing for a decision on their relationship. The seductive vampire Malik al-Khan has vanished back into the shadows. And the witches have declared her no longer a threat. But unless Genny can find a way to break the fertility curse afflicting London's fae, she knows this is just the lull before the magical storm. Then a faeling - a teenage girl - is fished out of the River Thames, dead and bound with magic, and Genny is called into investigate. As she digs through the clues, her search takes a sinister and dangerous turn, exposing age-old secrets that might be better left buried. Then another faeling disappears, and Genny finds herself in a race against time to save the faeling and stop the curse from claiming its next victim - herself!

Previous Books:

Thoughts: Contrasts galore, but the face of the heroine looks too porcelain-like for my tastes.

SF News: Let-Loose October-November

2010-12-08T17:41:00.000Z

Between working on my own writing, aiding someone with an uber sekrit project, welcoming a new family member into the fold - another sister *woot!* - finishing and starting up another course, blogging is going to be done by sparsity and randomness for the upcoming months ahead. The ever ongoing cover goodness and news offered up from the blogging community and authors alike will remain one of the frequent things here whilst Throwdowns will be limited to the time and effort I can put into them - and may undergo a change.

My venture into blogging in recent months has fell pretty flat in the context of reviews. No plans there besides from cutting them shorter when time is available to produce them.

---> More Lolcat pictures….

HEXED Anthology Unleashed

2010-10-05T17:31:00.003+01:00

Ilona Andrews unveiled the cover for HEXED, an urban gem featuring novellas by Yasmine Galenorn, Allyson James, Jeanne C. Stein and the aforementioned author.

An addition to the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews, MAGIC DREAMS is the story of Jim and Dali.

Yasmine Galenorn has just posted via Twitter information regarding her novella within HEXED. Belonging to the Otherworld series, ICE SHARDS revolves around Iris and what happened in her past. A nod to Literary Escapism who also shared additional info before I updated this post.

DOUBLE HEXED, the fourth installment within Allyson James’ Stormwalker series, acts as a standalone novella whilst Stein’s remains in the unknown too.

Release: June 2011

Summary for DOUBLE HEXED:

It starts, innocently enough, with a leaky faucet. Janet calls her plumber, Fremont, to help fix a faucet in a guest room, when all hell breaks loose—literally. Blood sprays from the faucets and a message appears on the mirror in blood: “You are doomed.”

Janet and her friends find themselves locked in her hotel, victims of a hex that must have been cast by a very powerful sorcerer. Cassandra, Janet’s Wiccan hotel manager, believes the sorcerer is one she’s come to Magellan to hide from, and he’s one of the most powerful entities in the world.

As Janet and her friends frantically work to release the spell before the sorcerer kills them all, they realize that their worst enemies might just be themselves.

Throwdown Thursday: UF heroine vs. PR hero

2010-09-30T23:51:00.000+01:00

Throwdown Thursday is a weekly thing (hosted by the Neverending Shelf & thanks to All Things Urban Fantasy who opened my eyes to it) where we tackle books with similar characters, covers, themes, etc. to determine which one rocks more. It is up to YOU to determine the winner.

Latest Throwdown: The preference of sub-genre cover art – and the couples featured on them – representing the romance genre today.

This week: Unequivocally simple and to the point. Where does your preference lie regarding the knife wielding banshee and preternatural male?

POISON KISSED – Erica Hayes

Genre: Dark Erotic Urban Fantasy

Release: September 28, 2010

Beyond the veil of magic, a fairy otherworld pulses with glamour and dark beauty... It's a place where passions run deep and dark -- and death is just one kiss away...

Mina is a banshee whose greatest power lies in her siren song. She's beholden to her boss Joey, a snake-shifter who once saved her life and now employs her as a gang enforcer. She refuses to upset the fragile balance between them by admitting that she longs for him, that his embrace is the only thing she craves more than revenge for her mother's death...

When Mina learns that Joey may have been involved in her mother's murder, fury threatens to spill out of her, note by vicious note. She and Joey have always trusted each other to stay alive, but now she's not sure what to believe. The evidence stacked against him -- or the one man who haunts her dreams and burns in her blood...

ON THE HUNT – Gena Showalter, Shannon K. Butcher, Jessica Andersen and Deidre Knight.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: February 1, 2011

A STUNNING ANTHOLOGY ABOUT PARANORMAL HUNTERS WHO KNOW A LITTLE SOMETHING ABOUT A GOOD SLAY INCLUDES AN ALL-NEW NOVELLA FROM NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR GENA SHOWALTER

New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter, Shannon K. Butcher, Jessica Andersen, and Deidre Knight present a steamy collection of all-new novellas featuring sexy paranormal hunters.

With shadowy creatures, intoxicating magic, vividly imagined worlds, and sizzling passion, this is an anthology no fan of paranormal romance will want to miss.

This Throwdown will remain open until 6th October, 2010.

Covers Unveiled: Dreams of a Dark Warrior - Kresley Cole

2010-09-29T22:34:00.000+01:00

Entrance into the eleventh installment within the Immortals After Dark series, DREAMS OF A DARK WARRIOR, presents a visual wrapping worth being enticed into the depths and complexities of a world gone awry.

DREAMS OF A DARK WARRIOR – Kresley Cole

Immortals After Dark #11

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: February 15, 2011

It’s a gripping tale of a battle-maddened warrior driven by revenge and the Valkyrie temptress who haunts his dreams.

He vowed he’d come for her. . .

Murdered before he could wed Regin the Radiant, warlord Aidan the Fierce seeks his beloved through eternity, reborn again and again into new identities, yet with no memories of his past lives – only an endless yearning.

She awaits his return. . .

When Regin encounters Declan Chase, the brutal Celtic soldier, she recognizes her proud warlord reincarnated. But Declan takes her captive, intending retribution against all immortals, unaware that he belongs to their world.

To sate a desire more powerful than death...

Yet every reincarnation comes with a price, for Aidan is doomed to die when he remembers his past. To save herself from Declan’s torment, will Regin rekindle the memories of the passion they once shared even if it means once again losing the only man she could ever love?

Thoughts: Bold font, a single kiss of a scar and a storm palette reminiscent of birch striking with a defining detail and splash of vibrancy.

Whilst holding it close, I feel slightly cheated - with the presence of a female model on the UK edition. I'm deeply curious of how - if ever - the depiction of a Valkyrie or another preternatural female would be represented within the IAD series in regards to the recent change in cover direction.

DREAMS OF A DARK WARRIOR – Kresley Cole

Immortals After Dark #11

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: March 3rd, 2011

Edition: UK

A ruthless Norse warrior will defeat anything standing between him and his beautiful obsession – even death itself.

A millennium ago, Aidan the Fierce lost his heart to the Valkyrie Regin the Radiant, but he was murdered before he could win her. Since then, he has reincarnated into different identities, with his memory of the past buried deep. This time he has returned as Declan Chase, a human soldier bent on exterminating all immortals—including Regin, his newest captive.

The proud Northman that Regin still mourns has been replaced by a twisted madman. Once tortured by immortals, Chase now metes his vengeance against them, and he’s fixated on her. Regin’s only hope is to make him remember her, though she knows that whenever he recovers his memories, history will repeat itself, and he’ll be lost to her again…

Covers Unveiled: Dark Lady – Anya Bast, Anna J. Evans, Jackie Kessler, Delilah Devlin, Jennifer Lyon, Cheyenne McCray, Christine Feehan, Ann Aguirre

2010-09-28T19:47:00.006+01:00

Note: Some of these covers are subject to change and may not be final.

DARK ENCHANTMENT – Anya Bast

A Dark Magic Novel #3

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: April 5, 2010.

A sultry dream can become a real-life nightmare…

Tax consultant Charlotte Bennett isn’t the type to lose control. Until she’s seduced in a dream by a handsome, rugged man named Kieran. In her dream state, she decides to let loose, letting pleasure and desire lead the way. But she quickly discovers her “safe” night of passion has dangerous repercussions.

The lust-driven dream was in fact a magickcal illusion that’s left Charlotte indefinitely bound to a controlling fae named Kieran. Under his order, she must find the last piece of a powerful relic. Only Charlotte knows the location of the Bosca Fadbh, but the knowledge is hidden deep within her bloodline—and only wicked magick can draw it out.

Forced to work with the enticing Kieran, she finds it hard to escape their seductive chemistry. Even though he’s harboring a deadly curse, one that puts Charlotte in danger—and could make this attraction fatal…

Thoughts: Much like towards the greenery. The focused saturation of colour per installment in this series catches me every time but Cruel Enchantment remains my one and only in regards to the covers of the Dark Magick novels.

DEMON MARKED – Anna J. Evans

A Demon Bound Novel #2

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: January 4, 2011

Desire burns in the second powerful Demon Bound novel—from the author of Shadow Marked.

Emma Quinn satisfies her demonic cravings by feeding on human life force, and keeps her conscience clean by preying only upon those who deserve it. But when Emma overindulges one night, she's in trouble with her victim's gang—or she will be...if they find his body. She turns to mob lawyer Andre Conti, an arrogant womanizer—a man who doesn't believe in her powers, but who will awaken sensual cravings Emma wasn't sure she possessed...

Thoughts: Taken with the wisp-like light, font and colours. Not the best, not bad but different.

RAGE – Jackie Morse Kessler

Preliminary cover art

Horsemen of the Apocalypse #2

Genre: Young Adult Urban Fantasy

Release: April 8th, 2011

Missy didn’t mean to cut so deep. But after the party where she was humiliated in front of practically everyone in school, who could blame her for wanting some comfort? Sure, most people don’t find comfort in the touch of a razor blade, but Missy always was . . . different.

That’s why she was chosen to become one of the Four Horsemen Apocalypse: War. Now Missy wields a different kind of blade—a big, brutal sword that can cut down anyone and anything in her path. But it’s with this weapon in her hand that Missy learns something that could help her triumph over her own pain: control.

A unique approach to the topic of self-mutilation, Rage is the story of a young woman who discovers her own power, and refuses to be defeated by the world.

Thoughts: Combine the enclosing blackness of the first and the above cover art with certain symbolic objects that relate to the inside of the book and you have me intrigued.

RAVISHED BY A VIKING – Delilah Devlin

Genre: “Viking Erotica with a paranormal twist.”

Release: January 4, 2011

What a Viking wants, a Viking takes.

When his younger brother goes missing, Dagr, Viking warrior and Lord of the Wolfskin Clan, will do whatever it takes to get him back. But nothing could have prepared him for Honora—a feisty, intelligent woman who is nothing like the women of his world—women who are content to serve their men in all things. Drawn to her despite her recalcitrant nature, Dagr is determined to show her who's boss both in bed and out.

When the two enemies-turned-lovers join forces to find Dagr's brother they are thrown into a rousing adventure full of danger, intrigue and erotic abandon. Can their passion truly unite them or will their different worlds lead to destruction for them both?

Thoughts: Dude must be cold. Seriously. The scenery on the cover makes me want to pop the question of where his clothes are. Or throw some at him. Although... he does have a nice array of battle weapons displayed along with a summary that piqued my interest.

NIGHT MAGIC – Jennifer Lyon

A Wing Slayer Novel #3

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: March 22, 2011

No summary available as of yet.

Thoughts: The faded embrace overlapped with the silhou-ette of the bird make for an overall delicate-slash-bold effect. I'm all for the contrasts.

ZOMBIES SOLD SEPERATELY – Cheyenne McCray

A Night Tracker Novel #4

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Release: June 2011

No summary available as of yet.

Thoughts: For some reason I like this cover with a fierce-near-love like. Whilst it rivals in colour and contrasts with the cover of the first in the series, this one portrays a hint of mystery that sets the scene for the UF genre it is classed under.

DARK PRINCE – Christine Feehan

Dark Novel #1

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: March 8th, 2011

Edition: Re-issue, hardcover format. Contains 100 previously unreleased pages and other features.

He came to her in the night, a predator -- strength and power chiseled his features. The seduction was deep and elemental; he affected her soul. His need. His darkness. His terrible haunting loneliness. Her senses aroused, she craved the dangerous force of his body. Burned for him. And he had only touched her with his mind.

She came to him at dawn, his bleakest hour. As the beast raged inside him, threatening to consume him, he vented his centuries-old despair in an anguished cry that filled the waning night. And she answered, a ray of light, piercing his darkness. A beautiful angel. Her compassion, courage, and innocence awakened in him an exquisite longing and tenderness. He knew he must possess her, for only she could tame his savage side and lift the dark shadow from his soul. Apart they were desolate, bereft. Intertwined physically and spiritually, they could heal one another and experience an eternity of nights filled with love.

Thoughts: More dynamic, more striking and a better cover all round. No love lost but a definite preference gained.

SHADY LADY – Ann Aguirre

Corine Solomon #3

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Release: August 1st, 2011

Edition: UK

No summary available as of yet.

Thoughts: It calls to me through and through for it's simplicity and boldness meshed with gothic tones and the distinctive font that tick all my boxes for my taste of cover goodness.

Throwdown Thursday: Romance Genre Covers

2010-09-23T22:43:00.004+01:00

Based on the first shallow encounter where our eyes are drawn inexorably to covers, where does your preference land in the spectrum of art representing the various romance genres of today's publishing industry?

Do you prefer the bold, veering on possessive, prominent couples featured on covers conveying the Erotic Romance and Paranormal Romance genres or the more delicately proportioned embraces that saturate the aforementioned sub-genres as well as those belonging to the Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Historical and Urban Fantasy Romance sub-categories?

LOVER MINE – J. R. Ward

Genre: Paranormal Romance

In the darkest corners of the night in Caldwell, New York, a conflict like no other rages. Long divided as a terrifying battleground for the vampires and their enemies, the city is home to a band of brothers born to defend their race: the warrior vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

John Matthew has come a long way since he was found living among humans, his vampire nature unknown to himself and to those around him. After he was taken in by the Brotherhood, no one could guess what his true history was- or his true identity. Indeed, the fallen Brother Darius has returned, but with a different face and a very different destiny. As a vicious personal vendetta takes John into the heart of the war, he will need to call up on both who he is now and who he once was in order to face off against evil incarnate.

Xhex, a symphath assassin, has long steeled herself against the attraction between her and John Matthew. Having already lost one lover to madness, she will not allow the male of worth to fall prey to the darkness of her twisted life. When fate intervenes, however, the two discover that love, like destiny, is inevitable between soul mates.

EXPLOSIVE – Beth Kery

Genre: Contemporary Erotic Suspense

His touch would consume her—if it didn’t kill her first…

Dr. Sophie Gable wasn’t expecting her peaceful getaway to be shattered by the arrival of a half-dazed, dead-sexy guest. Thomas Nicasio has obviously been traumatized, and Sophie thinks she knows by what. There’s something about Thomas’s father that he can’t—or won’t—remember. Something that could get them both killed. Still she can’t resist Thomas’s electrifying seduction—or her instincts to help him…

An ex-Navy explosives specialist, Thomas has never felt this type of volatile need for a woman. Even while he’s grieving the deaths of his brother and nephew, something in Sophie makes Thomas want to overtake her, and each time he does, her willing submission makes him want her all the more. But danger is lurking close by, and if he can’t face the demons of his past, he and Sophie could be the next victims in a pattern of meaningless violence…

PLAY OF PASSION – Nalini Singh

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Passion and reason collide with explosive force in the newest installment of Nalini Singh’s “mesmerizing”* Psy/Changeling series. As a conflict with Pure Psy looms on the horizon, two powerful wolves fight a far more intimate war of their own…

In his position as tracker for the SnowDancer pack, it’s up to Drew Kincaid to rein in rogue changelings who have lost control of their animal halves—even if it means killing those who have gone too far. But nothing in his life has prepared him for the battle he must now wage to win the heart of a woman who makes his body ignite…and who threatens to enslave his wolf.

Lieutenant Indigo Riviere doesn’t easily allow skin privileges, especially of the sensual kind—and the last person she expects to find herself craving is the most wickedly playful male in the den. Everything she knows tells her to pull back before the flames burn them both to ash…but she hasn’t counted on Drew’s will.

Now, two of SnowDancer’s most stubborn wolves find themselves playing a hot, sexy game even as lethal danger stalks the very place they call home…

*The Road to Romance

Or do you have your eyes set on the appearance of a single female or male model per cover and/or genre, signifying one of the protagonists that the book revolves around?

ARCHANGEL’S CONSORT – Nalini Singh

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance

Nalini Singh steps back into the shadows of her “heartbreakingly original”* world where angels rule, vampires serve, and the innocent can pay the greatest price of all…

Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux and her lover, the lethally beautiful archangel Raphael, have returned home to New York only to face an uncompromising new evil…

A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders.

The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.

An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…

*Errant Dreams Reviews

This Throwdown will remain open until 29th September 2010.

Covers Unveiled: Mesmerized Magic – Lauren Dane, Pamela Clare, Larissa Ione, Kresley Cole, Bethany Kane, Chloe Neill, Jacquelyn Frank, Regan Hastings

2010-09-21T13:01:00.000+01:00

MESMERIZED – Lauren Dane

Genre: Futuristic Erotic Romance

Release: April 2011

When You Least Expect It…

They call him the Shadow. Andrei Solace delivers death on silent feet as an assassin for the Phantom Corps. The perfect weapon in the fight against the Imperium, he’s sent to the same ’Verse he left behind as a youth.

Piper Roundtree is a mercenary prepared for anything—except for being rescued from Imperial lackeys by the man she hasn’t laid eyes on in eleven years. While she remembers every mesmerizing sensation he gave her, she thought they were through. And against the backdrop of an impending war, their passion is reignited.

The girl Andrei once loved is now a fierce woman who can pilot a ship through canyons at high speeds, and drive him wild with equalabandon. As much as Andrei tries to protect her from the darkness inside him, Piper admires his skills and the code he lives by. Now the lovers must join forces—in more ways than one—to save the Known Universe before the enemy hurls it into irreversible chaos…

Thoughts: Dirt, skin and torn clothing - one big, basic pull of appeal for me. The background complementing the model is a bonus too.

BREAKING POINT – Pamela Clare

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release: July 2011.

While investigating border violence in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, Denver journalist Natalie Benoit is caught in a bloody ambush and taken captive. Alone in the hands of ruthless killers, she will need every ounce of courage she possesses to survive.

Betrayed by another operative, Deputy U.S. Marshal Zach McBride has endured a week of torture and interrogation at the hands of a bloodthirsty Mexican drug cartel. Ready to give his life if he must, he remains unbroken—until he hears the cries of an American woman.

Although Natalie is only a voice in the darkness of their shared prison, her plight brings renewed strength to Zach's battered body. With her help, he overpowers their captors, and they flee through the desert toward the border, the attraction between them flaring hotter than the Sonoran sun.

But past loss and tragedy leave both of them reluctant to follow their hearts, even when the passion between them reaches its breaking point. Faced with feelings neither expected, they fight to stay ahead of the danger that hunts them as forces more powerful than they can imagine conspire to destroy them both…

Thoughts: I have no qualms with the new direction in covers taken with Breaking Point for Pamela Clare's I-Team novels -- and I'm taken with the fact that there may be a reason the dude is shirtless.

ETERNAL RIDER – Larissa Ione

A Lords of Deliverance novel.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: April 2011

'Born of a match between good and evil, four siblings stand between hell’s minions and everything they want to destroy. They are the Lords of Deliverance, and they have the power to ward off Doomsday . . . or let it ride . . .

His name is Ares, and the fate of mankind rests on his powerful shoulders. If he falls to the forces of evil, the world falls too. As one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, he is far stronger than any mortal, but even he cannot fight his destiny forever. Not when his own brother plots against him.

Yet there is one last hope. Gifted in a way other humans can’t—or won’t—understand, Cara Thornhart is the key to both this Horseman’s safety and his doom. But involving Cara will prove treacherous, even beyond the maddening, dangerous desire that seizes them the moment they meet. For staving off eternal darkness could have a staggering cost: Cara’s life.'

Thoughts: The first within Ione's Demonica spin-off series, Lords of Deliverance covers feeds my love for contrasts but isn't the visually compact punch that wowed me from the start to end of the Demonica novels.

DREAMS OF A DARK WARRIOR – Kresley Cole

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: March 3, 2011

Edition: UK

A ruthless Norse warrior will defeat anything standing between him and his beautiful obsession – even death itself.

A millennium ago, Aidan the Fierce lost his heart to the Valkyrie Regin the Radiant, but he was murdered before he could win her. Since then, he has reincarnated into different identities, with his memory of the past buried deep. This time he has returned as Declan Chase, a human soldier bent on exterminating all immortals—including Regin, his newest captive.

The proud Northman that Regin still mourns has been replaced by a twisted madman. Once tortured by immortals, Chase now metes his vengeance against them, and he’s fixated on her. Regin’s only hope is to make him remember her, though she knows that whenever he recovers his memories, history will repeat itself, and he’ll be lost to her again…

Thoughts: Unexpected and pretty. The hot pink and red highlighting the creams and silvers do justice to complementary techniques.

ADDICTED TO YOU – Bethany Kane

A One Night of Passion Novel

Publisher: Berkley Heat

Genre: Erotic/Contemporary

Release: June 2011

All it takes is a moment for your life to change— one night of desire to make you feel alive…

Irish film director Rill Pierce fled to the tiny, backwoods town of Vulture’s Canyon, seeking sanctuary and solitude after a devastating tragedy. Once, his raw sex appeal and sultry Irish accent made women across the globe swoon. Now, he’s barely recognizable…

But Katie Hughes, his best friend’s sister, is not the type of woman to give up on a man like Rill. She blazes into Vulture’s Canyon determined to save him from himself. Instead, she finds herself unleashing years of pent-up passion. In a storm of hunger and need, Katie and Rill forget themselves and the world. But will Rill’s insatiable attraction to Katie heal his pain—or will it just feed the darkness within him?

Thoughts: Striking font work that really ties in with the wash of primary colours.

HARD BITTEN – Chloe Neill

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Release: May 2011

No summary available as of yet.

Thoughts: Rugged, gritty and portraying all things urban. What's not to love?

SEDUCE ME IN DREAMS – Jacquelyn Frank

A Three Worlds Novel.

Release: March 22, 2011

No summary available as of yet.

Thoughts: Strong resemblance to the model of Kresley Cole's Pleasure of a Dark Prince...

VISIONS OF MAGIC – Regan Hastings

An Awakening Novel

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release: February 01, 2011

In the ten years since magic has re-emerged in the world, witches have become feared and hunted. For weeks Shea Jameson has been haunted by visions of fire. When she unintentionally performs a spell in public, she becomes one of the hunted. Her only hope is Torin, a dangerously sensual man who claims to be her eternal mate.

Thoughts: The appearance of the ingredients for passion and depth - I only hope it has a plot equally as strong.

A mind blank, a temporary break and what's your definition of unwinding?

2010-09-17T22:51:00.000+01:00

*Mutters, shuffles some and steps up to declare.* The reason I haven't been blogging this past week?

I'd blame it on a hectic lifestyle, various family issues and the perfect spot of sudden amnesia, but no. I'll admit with the hard-core trait of truth: My mind needed a break. Some quiet time, locked behind a door with no interruptions. A chance to relax... possibly. The result? Not the amount I bargained for or needed, but posts will resume a more regular schedule from today.

Truth - check. All the others: possibly, possibly not.
From author Jon Steel who gives advice for business pitches.

And as the title of this post implies, I'm curious to know what your definition of down time is. Besides from books. What's your key to relaxing? It seems I've either lost the knowledge or simply never knew it in the first place. (Okay, years but who's counting? ;)

Keep your eyes peeled for book related news tid-bits, cover goodness (a slice of RS, PR, UF, ER and such with the odd YA), future books I'm craving and a possible new feature to be introduced.

Cover Unveiled: Nightfall by Ellen Connor

2010-09-10T00:12:00.000+01:00

The collaborative writing team of Ellen Connor, known by separate identities as Carrie Lofty and Ann Aguirre have pulled together to present a world of "hot paranormal apocalyptic action," promising to deliver "fierce heroes, tough heroines, no holds barred fights, serious stakes, unnatural beasts, supernatural thrills, and steamy sex."

Release: June 2011

Publisher: Berkley Sensation

'Their instincts will save them.
Their passion will transform them.

Growing up with an unstable, often absent father who preached about the end of the world, Jenna never thought, in her wildest nightmares, that his predictions would come true. Or that he would have a plan in place to save her–one that includes the strong, stoic man who kidnaps and takes her to a remote cabin in the Pacific Northwest.

The mysterious ex-Marine named Mason owes a life-debt to Jenna’s father. Skilled and steadfast, he’s ready for the Change, but Jenna proves tough to convince. Until the power grid collapses and the mutant dogs attack–vicious things that reek of nature gone wrong.

When five strangers appear, desperate to escape the bloodthirsty packs, Jenna defies her protector and rescues them. As technology fails and the old world falls away, Jenna changes too, forever altered by supernatural forces. To fight for their future, she and Mason must learn to trust their instinctive passion–a flame that will see them through the bitter winter, the endless nights, and the violence of a new Dark Age.'

The next in the "Dark Age Dawning" trilogy, MIDNIGHT and DAYBREAK have very tentative release months of September and December 2011.

To whet your appetite, an excerpt of Chapter 1 is available.

My thoughts? It took me, tied me down and imprinted itself on my memory efficiently. I *want.*

Throwdown Thursday: Cassandra Palmer Series - Karen Chance

2010-09-09T13:14:00.000+01:00

Rachel Vincent's Australian edition vs. Italian version of the first installment within her Shifter series, Stray was the highlight of last weeks Throwdown. The votes cast determined the final count as a draw.

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This week, four separate editions of Karen Chance's Cassandra Palmer series take the stage for the debate of preference. With the same distinctive vibe and range of colours, the unique changes revolve around the fonts crafted, presence of the character the novel is based upon and the border of darkness of the first installment.

In a series of cover art comparisons, where does your preference lie?

With the US interpretations?

Or . . . the Australian's?

'Can you ever really trust a vampire?

Cassandra Palmer can see the future and communicate with spirits—talents that make her attractive to the dead and the undead. The ghosts of the dead aren’t usually dangerous; they just like to talk…a lot.

The undead are another matter.

Like any sensible girl, Cassie tries to avoid vampires. But when the bloodsucking mafioso she escaped three years ago finds Cassie again with vengeance on his mind, she’s forced to turn to the vampire Senate for protection.

The undead senators won’t help her for nothing, and Cassie finds herself working with one of their most powerful members, a dangerously seductive master vampire—and the price he demands may be more than Cassie is willing to pay....'

'A recent legacy made Cassandra Palmer heir to the title of Pythia, the world's chief clairvoyant. It's a position that usually comes with years of training, but Cassie's circumstances are a little...unusual. Now she's stuck with a whopping amount of power that every vamp, fey, and mage in town wants to either monopolize or eradicate-and that she herself doesn't dare use.

What's more, she's just discovered that a certain arrogant master vampire has a geis on her-a magical claim that warns off any would-be suitors, and might also explain the rather ... intense attraction between them. But Cassie's had it with being jerked around, and anyone who tries it from now on is going to find out that she makes a very bad enemy...'

'Recently named the world’s chief clairvoyant, Cassandra Palmer still has a thorn in her side. As long as Cassie and a certain master vampire—the sizzling-hot Mircea—are magically bound to each other, her life will never be her own …

The spell that binds them can only be broken with an incantation found in the Codex Merlini, an ancient grimoire. The Codex’s location has been lost in the present day, so Cassie will have to seek it out in the only place it can still be found—the past.

But Cassie soon realizes the Codex has been lost for a reason. The book is rumored to contain some seriously dangerous spells, and retrieving it may help Cassie to deal with Mircea, but it could also endanger the world . . .'

'Cassandra Palmer may be the all-powerful Pythia now, but that doesn’t mean people have stopped trying to kill her. Most of the supernatural power players don’t want the independent minded Cassie as chief clairvoyant—and they’ll stop at nothing to see her six feet under.

The Vampire Senate does support Cassie in her position, but their protection comes with a price: an alliance with the sexy master vampire Mircea, who has claimed Cassie as his own.

But even the vampires will have trouble keeping Cassie alive now that the self-styled god Apollo, the source of the Pythia’s power, has it in for her in a big way. To save her life—and the world—Cassie’s going to have to face down her creator once and for all.'

This Throwdown will remain open until 15th September 2010.

Covers Unveiled: Untamed Possession – Maya Banks, Donna Grant

2010-09-08T11:19:00.000+01:00

SWEET POSSESSION – Maya Banks

SWEET Series, book 5.

Release: April 2011

She’s a singer who lives for the spotlight—and can’t resist her adoring fans . . .

Outrageous and out-of-control, Lyric Jones is a spoiled pop star who lives hard and fast, always outrunning her past and the nightmares that haunt her. She’s used to getting what she wants—groupies included—because she can’t stand to be alone. So in bed, it’s the more the merrier, even if it means closing off the deepest part of herself…

He’s a hands-on bodyguard—and a one-woman man.

There is nothing Connor Malone wants to do less than babysit the celebratty songstress while she’s on vacation. But part of him relishes taming Lyric and showing her what it’s like to be possessed—body and soul—by one man. And though Lyric’s crazy antics nearly drive Connor to the edge, his quiet intensity penetrates her defenses, leaving them both vulnerable to the secrets that could topple Lyric from the stage.

Thoughts: The words "wicked" and "sensual" ring from the summary and the cover portrays an embrace that conveys said decadent words. The title and tag line - hints at a conflict I'm ready to invest in. I also prefer this cover to the one beforehand.

UNTAMED HISHLANDER – Donna Grant

The Dark Sword Series, book 4

Release: April 26th, 2011

The Dark Sword series reins in the magic, passion, and fury of Scotland’s legendary warriors—for whom love is always worth fighting for...

DEVIL IN THE FLESH

Druid-born and magic-blessed, Isla is one of the deadliest she-devils ever to serve the forces of darkness. As an immortal Highland warrior, it’s up to Hayden Campbell to destroy her and her kind. But for Hayden, Isla is more than a sworn enemy. She is temptation...

ANGEL IN HIS ARMS

Taking Isla captive, Hayden hopes to avenge his kinsmen who died by Druid magic. But when he looks into Isla’s eyes, he sees the secrets of her past. When he touches her skin, he feels the passion in her soul. And soon Hayden comes to realize that this beautiful, beguiling woman is not his enemy at all—she is his destiny. And, even as the forces of darkness conspire against them, their love will conquer all...

Thoughts: The references to "devil," "angel" and the way the summary is constructed makes me twitch with intrigue. The best cover unveiled in this series to date.

ARC Review: Veil of Shadows – Shiloh Walker

2010-09-06T12:52:00.002+01:00

Author: Shiloh Walker
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 978-0-425-23635-2
ARC provided by the author.

With demons running amok throughout the forests and mountains, a rebel army has been established to win back the land—and a new soldier has appeared out of nowhere to join them.

His name is Xan, and his past is a mystery to everyone, including Laisyn Caar—a beautiful captain in the rebel army—who is shocked by the powerful, all-consuming desire she feels in his presence.

But now isn’t the time for distraction. The future of her land—and of her people—is in her hands. On top of that, she’s been stripped of her magic—and without it she feels like part of her soul has been stolen away.

But when she discovers the dark secrets of Xan’s agenda, it will be up to her to determine whether the man she’s starting to love is a friend of her people—or a dreaded enemy . . .

Review:

Bold, unique with an unconventional concept bound by rules for survival, VEIL OF SHADOWS is an open foray in regards to the Paranormal Romance genre.

Constructed in a distinguished and at times darkly blunt tone, the context and issues dominating the written word are amplified by the emotional depth cut from the leading characters – Liasyn “Syn” Caar; witch, third in command of the rebel army and Xan, unknown soldier with an air of mystery.

Chugged against the elemental throes of a preternatural war that appears unending, the brutality and hardships crafted, steal into the paradox of softer feelings, demanding my full, uninterrupted attention for the foreseeable future.

In a reality steeped in hostility and ruins the tactics of evade, capture, kill resound with a fragile victory. Like the burn of brandy downed the reader gets whisked into an eddy of contradictions – the nourishment of emotion in a world that seemingly negates it; the fire rampant beneath hard control – and personalities that immerse the mind into sympathetic corridors, enabling them to dig their heels in and root for selected characters.

Xan had spent much of his life learning to school his emotions, his reactions, everything. In that moment, he was very glad.

He would hate for his reactions to show in just that moment.

He looked at Captain Laisyn Caar and thought only one thing:

Want.

It was a powerful, all-consuming urge that damn near obliterated every other thought in his mind.

The definition of survivor rather than victim is an ingrained undercurrent that ebbs from the mass of characters involved whilst the vulnerabilities and strengths of the protagonists are showcased in a wickedly emerging web of romance.

For someone who savours the flawed and emotionally scarred aspects of a heroine and hero worth investing in, Walker delivers the compact complexity of a relationship that encompasses the antonyms of tame, solely dependent and inequality.

The dimension and vast characteristics carved between Syn and Xan – the qualities that allow us to vie for and love to hate characters – presents something readers can humanely relate to.

Simply put, the tumultuous ride bound with the depiction of a world gone dark – where lust concurs to love – the buried and concealed romantic heart of me was full-content from the sinful pull-push force of the relationship.

A balance between plot and sexual tension is initiated, underscored with a conflict caused by action-reaction. A strong appeal was had in regards to the strife – Walker doesn’t cut corners and therefore dampen the climatic portions to be had, and whilst present in VEIL OF SHADOWS, it is a definite highlight in THROUGH THE VEIL; a more prominent fixture of the plot that graces the pages.

Syn huddled against a tree, Xan’s body pressing into hers.

The earth shuddered, heaved. She caught the stench of wood burning—hot, acrid smoke flooded her head. Distantly, she heard inhuman shrieks. And deep inside, she felt the first wave of death.

Minutes passed.

It could have been hours. Days.

Thunderous cracks echoed through the forest as trees succumbed and went crashing to the earth. Ash choked the air.

After an eternity, all went still. Struggling to breathe, Syn shoved against Xan’s chest and rasped out, “Need air, lover.”

Before submerging myself in VOS, I went in with expectations of “more” in contrast to what transpired. Like an addict looking for my next fix, I was in search of an impact similar to what I found in THROUGH THE VEIL. Instead, something more subtle unravelled and I was as equally satisfied with the outcomes of both.

The plot seduced me – and I was a willing participant who followed blindly in its unfolding.

Blunt, weary and honed with an inner cold, Syn is a leader by circumstance and a warrior by choice. Trapped in a state of powerlessness, her aim unattached to desires: to rid the Roinan territory of demons. Control spread thin, tension and the need for restraint simmering; enter Xan into the equation of her life.

Mysterious in his origins as he is unknown, Xan draws a line that intersects between loyalty, discipline and perception. Feelings concealed and forthright to a deceptive likeness, the stranger keeps a keen eye on all whilst both embody passion beneath the calm of neutral pretences. Xan, undone from their growing relationship, Syn addicted to their every encounter – and a defiance that bleeds into the words and encompasses all within the devastated lands.

Want . . . need.

It dominated Xan’s every thought and he was just a heartbeat away from forgetting everything – himself, where they were – a heartbeat away from forgetting everything and everybody who wasn’t Syn.

Heat.

Once more, touching him flooded her with heat, heat that suffused every fibre of her being, chasing away the chill. For the briefest moment, they were close, close as lovers, and she let herself revel in that heat, let herself feel his strength, feel all of him. But not enough . . . nowhere near enough.

Walker showcases the vulnerability of consuming emotions – blurring clarity, but also strengthening it, whilst achieving the absence of doubts and the fulfilment of trust.

Love and danger colliding with the triggered pull of a fate determined by hard choices, THROUGH THE VEIL is engraved with characters enveloped by a vicious grace.

The leading protagonists – side characters within VOS – make for a unique-worthy, intriguing couple revolving around the familiar setting of the Roinan planes amongst others whilst light is shed on one of its primary focuses: the Veil.

VEIL OF SHADOWS incorporates a foreign world with terms introduced with the first, subjecting this particular reader to an emotional depth that will have her investing in any possible future installments to be had.

Recommended for readers with a craving to flex their muscles within the PR genre and tumble into an upheaval of war and heady romance.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars - for VEIL OF SHADOWS and 4 stars - for THROUGH THE VEIL respectively.

For those worried about spoilers for TTV, Ms. Walker only offers glimpses into Kalen and Lee’s relationship and hints of how they came together. On the subject of worldbuilding, both possess solid, unusual and easily understood worlds.

THROUGH THE VEIL – Shiloh Walker

Genre: Paranormal Romance

He’s been waiting . . .

Found wandering in a field as a child, Lee Ross was given a name by the state and placed in a foster home–without anyone realizing she wasn’t entirely human.

All her life, she’s tried to dismiss the odd dreams that have plagued her, dreams of monsters creeping through the night and a man, fighting demons by her side. But the bruises she wakes up with are all too real to ignore...

Then the man from dreams appears in the flesh. His name is Kalen and he insists that her destiny lies in his world, the world of her dreams.

To save their people, he must convince Lee to give up everything she knows, follow her heart and cross into the Under Realm, even though once she does, she’ll never be able to return . . .

Teaser - Through the Veil:

A sexy little snarl crossed his face and she felt her belly quiver. She was already dazed and hot from that wicked line of thoughts dancing in her mind, and this wasn’t helping. He looked entirely too – biteable.

Yes. That was the word. She wanted to walk over there and catch his face in her hands and sink her teeth into that sullen lower lip, maybe into the tendon in his neck . . . . then the gleaming perfection of his muscled shoulders . . .

“That!”

Her face flushed. No way. He couldn’t possibly . . .

“When you’re a strong projector, anybody can pick up. But I’m a fairly talented receiver, which is how I knew you were here, how I always know you’re here, and damn it, would you stop?” he snarled. “You’ve got enough fucking chaos to deal with right now, trying to figure out what is going on, and you haven’t even grasped the full extent, but if you don’t stop tempting me, I’m going to . . .”

Lee couldn’t help it. Lifting one brow at him, she smiled slightly and asked, “Going to what?” And she really couldn’t help it, no more than she could stop thinking about him, and her, together . . . . Damn, had she really . . . ?

“Not yet,” he growled. “But keep this up and we will. Right here in broad daylight. As to what I’m going to do – bloody hell, I’ll just give you what it is you are dreaming about.”
Lee rolled her eyes. “Male testosterone is obviously on the same high levels here that it is back home,” she drawled. – THROUGH THE VEIL

Throwdown Thursday: Stray - Australian vs. Italian - Rachel Vincent

2010-09-02T14:26:00.002+01:00

Nalini Singh's and Anya Bast's US covers for their distant and near releases of Archangel's Consort and Cruel Enchantment, were featured in last weeks Throwdown. The votes cast landed Archangel's Consort with the entirety. *Woot* for a frigging gorgeous cover!

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This week, two versions of the first installment within Rachel Vincent's Shifters series are up for the debate of preference. Both vastly different from one another -- with the focus either on the claw marks or revealing eyes -- they expose a tell-tale trait of the animal side explored in the book.

In a first installment comparison, where does your preference lie?

With the Australian version?

Or . . . . the Italian?

'I look like an all-American grad student. But I am a werecat, a shape-shifter, and I live in two worlds.

Despite reservations from my family and my Pride, I escaped the pressure to continue my species and carved out a normal life for myself. Until the night a Stray attacked.

This brush with danger was all my Pride needed to summon me back... for my own protection. Yeah, right. But I'm no meek kitty. I'll take on whatever and whoever--I have to in order to find my friends. Watch out, Strays--'cause I got claws, and I'm not afraid to use them...'

This Throwdown will remain open until 8th September, 2010.

Covers Unveiled: Captive Embers - Anna Windsor, Eileen Wilks, Elle Jasper, Joss Ware, Tessa Adams

2010-08-30T16:48:00.000+01:00

Note: Some of these covers may not be final.

Release: December 28th, 2010

'Camille Fitzgerald failed her first "family" of Sibyls and lost them, along with much of the fiery elemental energy that powers her soul. As lethal Rakshasa demons kill at will, she battles beside the warriors who have become her new sisters, desperate to preserve the flaming strength she's regained. Nothing can stop her now, except new, devastating losses—and John Cole, the most dangerous man in New York City.'

Thoughts: I hold a soft spot for the shades veering into deeper set tones. The font inlaid on top of it makes it a beauty of sorts.

Release: January 4th, 2010

'Ex-cop Lily Yu and werewolf Rule Turner’s engagement announcement is stirring up ugly passions in the Humans First camp. There’s hate mail, followed by death threats. And when a lupus in Tennessee goes on a killing spree, Lily realizes that it’s only the opening skirmish in an all-out war.'

Thoughts: I like the effects in combination and the focus that brings all eyes to touch upon the heroine.

Release: January 25th, 2011

Summary: N/A

Thoughts: Atmospheric background, a teaser of a distraught world, a possessive embrace: Do I need to be starting this series?

Release: TBD

Summary: N/A

The preliminary cover for Everdark, the next installment within The Dark Ink Chronicles series after Afterlight.

Thoughts: Pretty. The pink-purple hue layering the landscape along with the presence of a graveyard and I'm intrigued.

From faceless to revealed partially, the features of the heroine remain a mystery on both cover revelations to date.

The Dark Ink Chronicles #1

Release: November 2nd, 2010

'Blood is thicker than ink.

There is a reason we fear the night. . .

As Savannah's most unconventional tattoo artist, Riley Poe is quite familiar with the local underground scene. She lives and works on the edge of it every day.

Now, she's about to step over the edge.

When her younger brother is taken by a sinister cult led by centuries-old vampires, Riley discovers a world of shadows and blood--and those who exist there.

Her ally is the hot-tempered vampire Eli Dupre, who is attracted both to Riley's beauty as well as her one-of-a-kind blood type. A blood type he is not alone in craving.

To save her brother from certain un-death, Riley will face dangers she's never dreamed of, ruthless bloodthirsty enemies, and an evil of endless hunger that wants to devour all in its vile grasp.'

Release: April 5th, 2011

Dragon’s Heat Series #2

'In her ten year career with the CDC, noted hematologist Jasmine Kane has been in many of the world’s hotspots. Fiercely dedicated to her job and filled with a wanderlust that can’t be denied, she’s spent most of her life with her bags packed and one foot out the door. So when an injury puts her on extended medical leave, keeping her out of the field and locked in her Atlanta apartment, she nearly goes stir-crazy—until a call comes in from an old friend, asking her to visit a lab in New Mexico and help isolate hemorrhagic properties in a strange, engineered disease. Before Phoebe can so much as say dragon, Jasmine’s out the door and on her way to Las Cruces.

Quinn Maguire is an ancient dragon shapeshifter—and healer for his clan. For hundreds of years he’s worked to keep his people safe, sacrificing any kind of personal life in his quest to keep the Dragonstar clan from dying out. And for centuries it’s worked. He’s lost friends and lovers because of his obsession, but at least the Dragonstars have not perished as so many of the dragon clans have in the last three hundred years. But now he’s faced with something he can’t solve, a disease engineered by his clan’s mortal enemies and one that may do what war, difficulty in childbirth and an encroaching human population hasn’t—wipe out his people for good. Desperate to stop the disease, he’s willing to try anything—even working with a human hematologist, one whose very presence sets him on fire. . .'

Thoughts: The detail, tattoo and tag line earned a good read through of the summary.

Ensnared by . . . . Incident #1

2010-08-27T14:51:00.000+01:00

Books - old and upcoming - that have either stolen my attention enough to invest, beckoned their siren call to be devoured . . . and/or ones I have seriously neglected touching (and owe some good petting to *pets said books with a wary look*) due to time inconsistencies of the outside world.

JEWELED – Anya Bast

Release: November 2nd, 2010

Genre: Fantasy Historical Erotic Romance

Defined by magic. Ruled by desire.

In the Court of Edaeii, magic-imbued Evangeline is rewarded for her gift in manipulating emotion with a sapphire stone set into the perfect curve of her lower back. Her greatest rival in the royal court is the enigmatic Anatol, instilled with the power of illusion. He may better her in magic, but he is her absolute equal in passion.

They share something else—they’re both targets of low-born revolutionaries bent on overthrowing the palace of the privileged few. Rescued from the mobs by Gregorio, the brilliant revolutionary mastermind, they’re given sanctuary. But in this warm refuge, Evangeline soon finds herself torn between the magic of one man she has always desired, and the excitingly new and radical moves of another. For her, there is only one choice.

Evangeline, Anatol and Gregorio come together as one to explore the possibilities of love beyond reason, and to indulge in pleasure without limits.

Thoughts: The rich tones of blue, hinting at the royal cast mentioned, drew me in its dominance. The stone too - with the possibility of being an integral part of the plot. Four genres blended together with a hint of uniqueness -- and I'm intrigued enough to pick up.

POISON KISSED – Erica Hayes

The Shadowfae Chronicles Book Three.

Release: September 28th, 2010

Genre: Dark, Erotic Urban Fantasy

Beyond the veil of magic, a fairy otherworld pulses with glamour and dark beauty... It's a place where passions run deep and dark -- and death is just one kiss away . . .

Mina is a banshee whose greatest power lies in her siren song. She's beholden to her boss Joey, a snake-shifter who once saved her life and now employs her as a gang enforcer. She refuses to upset the fragile balance between them by admitting that she longs for him, that his embrace is the only thing she craves more than revenge for her mother's death . . .

When Mina learns that Joey may have been involved in her mother's murder, fury threatens to spill out of her, note by vicious note. She and Joey have always trusted each other to stay alive, but now she's not sure what to believe. The evidence stacked against him -- or the one man who haunts her dreams and burns in her blood . . .

Thoughts: I own the first and second installments, both bought on impulse from a once-over of the summaries alone. Dark, gritty, sensual with that added complexity of romance -- and score one for the "baddies" this time -- I can't anticipate this book any harder.

UNDONE – Rachel Caine

Outcast Season series, book one.

Release: February 3rd, 2009

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Once she was Cassiel, a Djinn of limitless power. Now, she has been reshaped in human flesh as punishment for defying her master—and living among the Weather Wardens, whose power she must tap into regularly or she will die. And as she copes with the emotions and frailties of her human condition, a malevolent entity threatens her new existence...

Thoughts: After unveiling the cover for the third installment, Unseen and cataloguing the excerpt of the first away, my urge to begin this series has rekindled.

HAUNTED BY YOUR TOUCH – Jeaniene Frost, Shayla Black and Sharie Kohler.

Release: October 26th, 2010

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Enter the dark realm of Nocturna in Jeaniene Frost’s red-hot tale, where blisteringly sexy Raphael dominates the demons of a lawless dimension and tries to help a beautiful young woman avenge her cousin’s disappearance.

Shayla Black’s gorgeous Doomsday Brethren hero, Raiden, vows to fight for his magical lover and their unborn youngling—no matter the cost—after he drives her into the arms of another man and she falls under attack.

Lycans rule the night in Sharie Kohler’s suspenseful story, as a fiery woman stalks mysterious Luc, the undeniably hypnotic being she believes can save her from turning . . . if she kills him.

Danger beckons in these captivating paranormal tales that will tempt readers to the edge and leave them begging for more.

Thoughts: Instinctively wary of anthologies, I only add those that either A) scream to me to buy, to caress and crack open their spines or B) entice me with the addition of work from a familiar author or to test the waters of work from authors I've been eyeing for a while. This one? I'll lay the blame down on Ms. Frost's introduction into Nocturna and Ms. Black's foray into another Doomsday Brethren story.

ECSTASY IN DARKNESS – Gena Showalter

Alien Huntress #6

Release: October 26th, 2010

Genre: Paranormal Romance

New York Times bestselling sensation Gena Showalter enthralls with a dark, tantalizing world of humans, otherworlders, powers beyond imagining, and a seductive vampire undone by his insatiable hunger for one woman. . . .

Growing up poor on New Chicago’s meanest streets, Ava Sans had two options: be the predator, or be the prey. No contest. Now, working for Alien Investigation and Removal, she’s been ordered to capture the biggest, baddest warrior of all—a vampire too beautiful to be real, with the ability to manipulate time. Once the leader of the entire vampire army, McKell has been deemed savage and unstable, spurned even by his own kind.

To McKell, humans should be nothing more than sustenance. Yet the petite, golden-skinned Ava is a fascinating contradiction—vicious yet witty, strong yet vulnerable, lethal but fiercely loyal. Against his better judgment, McKell craves that loyalty, and much more. When the chase leads to seduction, McKell and Ava will race to discover the truth about his past. But the answers will come at a price, even for a woman who thought she had nothing left to lose. . . .

Thoughts: Having near devoured all of Savor Me Slowly, burned through Seduce the Darkness with alot more disinterest and enjoyed Tempt Me Eternally within the Deep Kiss of Winter duology, I have an up-down relationship with Showalter's Alien Huntress series. Despite the disappointments though, I've been sucked in once more by the summary and contradicting promise of a heroine I can relate to.

Throwdown Thursday: Archangel's Consort vs. Cruel Enchantment - Nalini Singh, Anya Bast

2010-08-26T15:16:00.000+01:00

Meljean Brook's and Skyler White's US covers for their upcoming releases, The Iron Duke and In Dreams Begin, were featured in last weeks Throwdown. The result of votes: a draw, each cover believed to be representing their specific genres perfectly; no winner, no loser. Love your way on words VFG!

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This week, two covers with certain similarities and dominating colours are up for the debate of preference. A showcase into worlds of various beings and characteristics unique to their settings, they give a glimpse into very different territory whilst complementing one another.

In a third and second installment comparison, where does your preference lie?

With Nalini Singh's recently unveiled Archangel's Consort?

Or . . . . Anya Bast's September release of Cruel Enchantment?

'When vampire hunter Elena Deveraux became an angel, with magnificent wings the colours of midnight and dawn, it turned her world upside down. Her lover, the stunningly dangerous archangel Raphael, is used to being in control even when it comes to the woman he considers his own.

But Elena has never done well with authority. . . especially not when it seems Raphael is the one who needs her help. The archangels may be almost all-powerful, but there are some things that only a Guild Hunter can get done, and Elena and Raphael may be heading for their most dangerous investigation yet.' -- Archangel's Consort.

'Even the most powerful hands need a delicate touch. . . .

Emmaline Gallagher is a master of wielding personal glamour. As a free fae who lives among humans, she must hide her true self at all times as she works undercover within the powerful Phaendir—for if certain factions within the Phaendir gain control, the fae will be wiped from existence. Now, an object of fae power lies within a locked ancient box. And there is only one fae who can forge the key.

Known as “the Blacksmith” Aeric O’Malley can create or destroy almost anything with his forging skills. Emmaline has come to him in need, but he and Emmaline have a past—and he has spent centuries wanting to take revenge on her for her transgressions. But now that he has her within his grasp, something about her keeps him from exacting his vengeance—or is it merely her glamour blinding him?

Trapped by fate, Emmaline must hope that she can reach Aeric’s furious heart before it’s too late. . .' -- Cruel Enchantment.

This Throwdown will remain open until 1st September, 2010.

Covers Unveiled: Archangel's Grave - Nalini Singh, Jeaniene Frost

2010-08-25T22:53:00.000+01:00

Release: January 25th, 2011

Thoughts: Majestic and god damn gorgeous. I'm miming Nalini's line of thought myself in that I adore this cover from the top to the bottom of my wing-admiring being. The cascade of purple feeds my apparent fetish for the colour. *Nods to background.*

Release: 22nd February, 2011

'Danger waits on both sides of the grave…

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield and her vampire husband Bones have fought for their lives, as well as for their relationship. But just when they’ve triumphed over the latest battle, Cat’s new and unexpected abilities threaten to upset a long-standing balance…

With the mysterious disappearance of vampires, rumors abound that a species war is brewing. A zealot is inciting tensions between the vampires and ghouls, and if these two powerful groups clash, innocent mortals could become collateral damage. Now Cat and Bones are forced to seek help from a dangerous “ally”—the ghoul queen of New Orleans herself. But the price of her assistance may prove more treacherous than even the threat of a supernatural war. . . to say nothing of the repercussions Cat never imagined.'

Thoughts: The atmospheric blend is a hooker but I miss witnessing Cat in all her silver heeled glory and arsenal attachments.

Covers Unveiled: Unseen Grace - Rachel Caine, M. L. N. Hanover

2010-08-23T09:54:00.000+01:00

Summary: N/A

Thoughts: Green eyes are a kryptonite of sorts for me -- and the overall hue paired with the forestry and consistent bike within the series covers makes my appreciation for complementary colours sigh.

Original cover Revised Cover

'When you’re staring evil in the eye, don’t forget to watch your back . . .

For the first time in forever, Jayné Heller’s life is making sense. Even if she routinely risks her life to destroy demonic parasites that prey on mortals, she now has friends, colleagues, a trusted lover, and newfound confidence in the mission she inherited from her wealthy, mysterious uncle. Her next job might just rob her of all of them. At Grace Memorial Hospital in Chicago, something is stirring. Patients are going AWOL and research subjects share the same sinister dreams. Half a century ago, something was buried under Grace in a terrible ritual, and it’s straining to be free. Jayné is primed to take on whatever’s about to be let loose. Yet the greatest danger now may not be the huge, unseen force lurking below, but the evil that has been hiding in plain sight all along—taking her ever closer to losing her body, her mind, and her soul. . . .'

Thoughts: Love the transition and more defined detail. The vapour effect, both lower and higher, builds a smooth contrast with the clear middle section. My eyes would have crawled to it of their own accord if I happened upon it in one of my ventures into book stores.

Review: Branded by Fire - Nalini Singh

2010-08-20T18:56:00.000+01:00

Author: Nalini Singh

Publisher: Berkley Sensation

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 978-0-425-22673-5

Book purchased by reviewer.

Summary:

'Hailed by Christine Feehan as “a major new talent,” New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh now brings together two fierce changelings in her most explosive story yet.

Though DarkRiver sentinel Mercy is feeling the pressure to mate, she savagely resists when Riley Kincaid, a lieutenant from the SnowDancer pack, tries to possess her. The problem is not simply that he pushes her buttons; the problem is that he’s a wolf, she’s a cat, and they’re both used to being on top.

But when a brilliant changeling researcher is kidnapped from DarkRiver territory, Mercy and Riley must work together to track the young man—before his shadowy captors decide he’s no longer useful. Along the way, the two dominants may find that submitting to one another uncovers not just a deadly conspiracy, but a passion so raw that it’ll leave them both branded by fire . . .'

Review:

Explosive, unyielding; a smouldering fire encompassed by skin and a loyalty borne from a trial of trust, portrays the two protagonists – the lieutenant wolf, Riley and the Sentinel leopard, Mercy – beyond their facets of separate personalities throughout the scenes of BRANDED BY FIRE.

Both dominants, vying for control; the pursuit of a working relationship through ploy turned a brutal truth in the form of sensual strategy. Contradicting and equal desires each, the heroine and hero lay open the field for emotional predation: doubts, fears, lust, longing – whilst slipping into a web of changing perception.

Their romance is a war made of idealisms not met; desires that would never mould, never conform to their budding relationship. Other desires infiltrate beneath the fire, ensuing in the brooding silence and voice of thought.

Conflict and judgements pending, Mercy and Riley thwart and submit to one another in a dance of dominance and wills. The interpretations and boundaries cut between them – both simple and complex – drizzle away the constructs of their realities, re-wiring the motives of their actions with an irredeemable passion to sate their hunger for one another.

Questions are raised, tensions mounted and the trial of acceptance churns for the length of the book.

Whilst their positions within the DarkRiver and SnowDancer pack oppose their romantic ties, the determination, resolution, and promise that they belonged to one another – their willingness to test the limits of their tentative relationship and search for a middle ground – struck a chord within me.

Ms. Singh’s blend of unique detail, opposing forces, variety of characterization, and convoluted plot and subplots captivated me in one sharp perusal of the first page.

Both characters possessed an inner integrity, an endurance of emotional experiences and flaws to call their own. The mistakes and frustrations felt; resoundingly human qualities that pulled on my strings of sympathy.

BRANDED BY FIRE provides insight into the workings of the Changeling society and illuminates the trait of honesty between them. Readers are given a glimpse into a population where no lies, deceit or hidden intentions revolve. Where in reality, humans do all three numerous times throughout life, I found this aspect refreshing, compelling and all too enticing a facet of this fictional world.

The plot is intrinsically rife with action, sacrifice and logic defied. Passion unhinged in the makings of chaos and the resulting consequences from risks taken from Mercy and Riley. The pivotal points circling the three sectors of beings involved within the pages of BBF: the Changelings, Psy and Human Alliance, pulsate into overriding arcs where the bond of tenderness runs parallel with understanding and conforms into a twisted, decimated evolution of love.

Vast, complex and beautiful to behold, the seeds for side characters developing connections and ongoing relationships hook the senses in a vague but equally captive hold as the scenes primarily focused on the couple.

The intensity of emotions – pain-inspiring and heady – with the potential to fulfil and/or break characters makes an appearance whilst playing a central role in this sixth instalment of Singh’s Psy-Changeling series.

The capacity of truth and blindness is a theme explored throughout. The heat of emotion striking against the arctic brush of its absence, managed to both divert and fasten my attention from my surroundings for a time.

Constructed in third person, the style is unique, detailed and cast in a meandering phase of high and lows, the worldbuilding complementing rather than detracting from the characters and romance. Exotic and like the infinite web of stars, all the key components of a Paranormal Romance worth investing in are present.

The scenes that touch upon the Psy harness an eerie quality of sensation, gifting as much as blinding the reader with the new birth of information gleaned. A balance of shades is consistent; holding the threshold of a dark or lighter tone of entrance or ending.

An intoxicating rush, BRANDED BY FIRE is a dynamic, lush unfolding of a slow descent of binding love.

A hard line distinguished between “I frigging adore,” and “You touch; you die.” Sentimental value towards books has a new meaning in my hands.

Rating: 5 stars out of 5.

For those wandering about the ending, Ms. Singh delivers a HEA with some murky facts, tantalizing revelations and a heroine and hero that’ll imprint on the memory long after finishing.

Recommended to readers in pursuit of a feisty heroine, a hero who earns his title and a world to submerge into.

You can find Nalini at her blog, site or twitter.

Throwdown Thursday: The Iron Duke vs. In Dreams Begin - Meljean Brook, Skyler White

2010-08-19T19:24:00.000+01:00

Kat Richardson's covers featured in last weeks Throwdown consisted of the second and third US and German installments within her Greywalker series. The leading covers, determined from the most votes, were the US.

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This week, two varying and different covers are up for the debate of preference. A dip into different settings, the visual art up for comparison holds a composition of opposing features - hardness against softness, light against dark - whilst possessing a vibe that connects them loosely.

In a first and second installment cover comparison, where does your preference lie?

With the upcoming Steampunk Romance, The Iron Duke?

Or . . . the as yet unreleased Dark Fantasy, In Dreams Begin?

'Seductive danger and steampunk adventure abound in the gritty world of the Iron Seas, where nanotech is fused with Victorian sensibilities—and steam.

After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has built a merchant empire on the power — and fear — of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession.

Mina can’t afford his interest, however. Horde blood runs through her veins, and despite the nanotech enhancing her body, she barely scratches out a living in London society. Becoming Rhys’s lover would destroy both her career and her family, yet the investigation prevents her from avoiding him…and the Iron Duke’s ruthless pursuit makes him difficult to resist.

But when Mina uncovers the victim’s identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans — and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke.' -- The Iron Duke.

'“Close your eyes tightly—tightly— and keep them closed . . .”

From a Victorian Ireland of magic, poetry and rebellion, Ida Jameson, an amateur occultist, reaches out for power, but captures Laura Armstrong, a modern-day graphic artist, instead. Now, for the man or demon she loves, each woman must span a bridge through Hell and across history . . . or destroy it.

“Every passionate man is linked with another age, historical or imaginary, where alone he finds images that rouse his energy.” W. B. Yeats

Anchored in fact on both sides of history, Laura and Ida, modern rationalist and fin de siècle occultist, are linked from the moment Ida channels Laura into the body of celebrated beauty and Irish freedom-fighter Maud Gonne. When Laura falls—from an ocean and a hundred years away—passionately, Victorianly in love with the young poet W. B. Yeats, their love affair entwines with Irish history and weaves through Yeats’s poetry until Ida discovers something she wants more than magic in the subterranean spaces in between.

With her Irish past threatening her orderly present and the man she loves in it, Laura and Yeats—the practical materialist and the poet magus—must find a way to make love last over time, in changing bodies, through modern damnation, and into the mythic past to link their pilgrim souls . . . or lose them forever.' -- In Dreams Begin.

This Throwdown will remain open until 25th August 2010.

Covers Unveiled: The Darkness of Descent - Allison Pang, Jenna Black

2010-08-15T10:48:00.001+01:00

Note: These covers are subject to change and may not be final.

Release: 25th January, 2011

'A fun and exciting dark urban fantasy debut featuring a young woman who finds herself involved in a series of supernatural kidnappings and must work with a sexy incubus to keep the victims—and herself— from vanishing forever.

Six months ago, twenty-six-year-old Abby Sinclair was struggling to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Now, she has an enchanted iPod and a miniature unicorn living in her underwear drawer. With her lack of OtherWorldly knowledge, Abby needs all the help she can get. So when her Faery employer and some of her friends go missing, she must team up with the sexy and mysterious incubus who’s been haunting her dreams. As Abby’s sucked deeper and deeper into this dangerous world she barely knows—filled with daemons, angels, and faeries—she finds herself trapped at the center of it all. And she might not be able to escape . . .'

Thoughts: I adore the night-lashed tones encroaching outwards with the light holding its own. The adornments, clothing decked in and area occupied along with the summary has incited my intrigue and stolen my attention.

Release: 26th April, 2011

'A brand-new urban fantasy from the acclaimed author of the Morgan Kingsley series.

Nikki Glass thinks of herself as an ordinary person, although her skills as a private investigator sometimes verge on the uncanny. But whatever Nikki might think of herself, she is far from ordinary, as she discovers one life-altering night when she loses control of her car on an icy road, accidentally killing a man who appears out of nowhere. The man Nikki struck with her car was an immortal who wanted to die—and she has now inadvertently stolen his immortality. As a descendant of the Greek goddess Artemis, Nikki’s talents have reached supernatural proportions. Of course, before she was an immortal, there wasn’t anyone who wanted her dead . . .'

Thoughts: The black and blue whilst a tad too vibrant for me, still appeals to a degree. The complex plot and dig at a mythological entwining braced in modernity makes my hands itch to hold it.

U-Stream Chat with New York Times Bestselling author Kresley Cole:

2010-08-14T13:04:00.002+01:00

In anticipation of the upcoming release of DEMON FROM THE DARK, the tenth full-length installment within the Immortals After Dark series, Simon & Schuster is enticing you to RSVP for a Live U-Stream Chat with the sole creator of this uniquely captivating world, Ms. Kresley Cole.

The Deets:

RSVP for a Live U-Stream Chat with New York Time Bestselling author, Kresley Cole on Monday, August 23rd between 6pm – 7pm EST.

Release: 24th August, 2010

‘A dangerous demon she can’t resist…

Malkom Slaine: tormented by his sordid past and racked by vampiric hungers, he's pushed to the brink by the green-eyed beauty under his guard.

A maddening witch he aches to claim...

Carrow Graie: hiding her own sorrows, she lives only for the next party or prank. Until she meets a tortured warrior worth saving.

Trapped together in a savage prison...

For them to survive, Malkom must unleash both the demon and vampire inside him. When he becomes the nightmare his own people feared, will he lose the woman he craves body and soul?'

EXCERPT.