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Book Isle's Newsletter
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Despite media promotion,
READERS are the biggest influence because word-of-mouth recommendations are
still the #1 reason someone decides to try a book by new author. Beyond the RT
TOP PICKS, BI Staff includes many advance ordered titles in online Monthly
Highlights. That is also the reason for the book reviews listed -- your
recommendation to others of a book.
See what Fellow Book
lovers suggest:
RT BOOKreviews Magazine available!
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= BI Price $4.50
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your issue request]
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 | VISIT BOOK
ISLE - BRICK STORE
 | Sale Days - Used Books @ 1/4 Price
 | Sept 13 |
 | Oct 14 & 31 |
 | Nov 28 & 29 |
 | Dec 29-30-31 |
|
 | BOOKWORMS - Book Club meets 2nd
Thursday of the month @ 6 p.m.
Come Join us!
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AUTHOR & BOOK NEWS:
(Click to Hide/View ALL this section)
 | World Fantasy Awards
Finalists
announced - Click here to see list. The winners will be presented
during the World Fantasy Convention held October 30-November 2 in Calgary,
Alberta.
|
 | The winner of the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer,
sponsored by Dell Magazines and administered by the World Science
Fiction Society, is Mary Robinette Kowal.
|
 | The winners of the 2008 Hugo Awards, chosen by members of the
World Science Fiction Society and presented at this year's World Science
Fiction convention, are:
 | Novel: The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon |
 | Novella: "All Seated on the Ground" by Connie Willis (Asimov's,
December 2007) |
 | Novelette: "The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" by Ted Chiang
(F&SF, September 2007) |
 | Short Story: "Tideline" by Elizabeth Bear (Asimov's, June 2007) |
 | Non-fiction Book: Brave New Words: The Oxford Dictionary of
Science Fiction by Jeff Prucher |
 | Dramatic Presentation, Long Form: Stardust, written by Jane Goldman
and Matthew Vaughn, based on the novel by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by
Charles Vess (Paramount) |
 | Dramatic Presentation, Short Form: Doctor Who, "Blink," written by
Steven Moffat (BBC) |
 | Professional Editor, Long Form: David Hartwell |
 | Professional Editor, Short Form: Gordon Van Gelder (F&SF) |
 | Professional Artist: Stephan Martiniere |
 | Semiprozine: Locus, edited by Charles N. Brown, Kirsten Gong-Wong
and Liza Groen Trombi |
 | Fanzine: File 770 |
 | Fan Writer: John Scalzi |
 | Fan Artist: Brad Foster
|
|
 | Not everything online happens at night!
Here's a suggestion for a
book-full morning -- listen while you work!
Rowena Cherry's CRAZY TUESDAY!
First Tuesday of every month "blogging aloud" with guest authors on
PIVTR (Passionate Internet Voices Talk Radio).
|
 | The movie 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince'
will be released July 17, 2009 rather than this November 21, the
Associated Press reported. So, summer delights are coming.
|
 | The movie 'TWILIGHT' is scheduled for theaters December
12th, 2008. The movie is based on Teen appropriate books by Stephenie Meyer. So, for your summer reading, try these titles:
Twilight (Twilight Saga #1) Paperback $10.99 - BI
Price $8.79
New Moon (Twilight Saga #2) Paperback $10.99 - BI Price $8.79
(Hardcover editions available of these
if you want the series as matched set)
Eclipse (Twilight Saga #3) Hardcover $19.99 - BI Price
$15.99
Breaking Dawn (Twilight Saga #4)
Hardcover $22.99 BI Price
$18.39
(Remember to ask for the additional Newsletter 5% Discount!)
|
 | After the success of the four Nora Roberts movies that aired on
Lifetime Television in 2007, the network will join forces once again with
Mandalay Television and Stephanie Germain Productions to produce four
all-new Original Movies based on Nora Roberts’ best-selling novels to air
in 2009.
|
 | Romance Writers of America (RWA) is pleased to announce the
2008 RITA Awards. The 2008 RITA honors romance fiction published
in 2007 in 12 categories - click here to see list of winners.
Click here to see RITA FINALISTS
 | Best Novel with Strong Romantic Elements: Silent in the Grave
by Deanna Raybourn |
 | Best Paranormal Romance: Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward |
 | Best Romantic Suspense: Ice Blue by Anne Stuart |
 | Best Contemporary Series Romance: Suspense/Adventure: Treasure
by Helen Brenna |
 | Best Contemporary Series Romance: Snowbound by Janice Johnson |
 | Best Contemporary Single Title Romance: Catch of the Day by
Kristan Higgins |
 | Best Historical Romance: Lessons of Desire by Madeline Hunter |
 | Best Regency Historical Romance: The Secret Diaries of Miss
Miranda Cheever by Julia Quinn |
 | Best Young Adult Romance: Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr |
 | Best Inspirational Romance: A Touch of Grace by Linda
Goodnight |
 | Best Romance Novella: “Born in My Heart” by Jennifer Greene in Like Mother, Like
Daughter
|
|
|
 |
EVENTS OF INTEREST - (Click
to Hide)
 | Rowena Cherry's CRAZY TUESDAY!
First Tuesday of every month "blogging aloud" with guest authors on
PIVTR (Passionate Internet Voices Talk Radio).
|
 | September - Partnership Anniversary for BOOK ISLE
& eBOOKISLE [1997 to Present!]
~ Cy & Chuck's Wedding Anniversary [1972 to Present!]
|
 | World
Fantasy Convention held October 30-November 2 in Calgary, Alberta,
Canada |
 | November 7-9, 2008 -
K-Con (SHERRILYN KENYON) |
 | April 22-26, 2009 RT BOOKLOVERS EXTRAVAGANZA - Orlando, FL |
|

Reviews:
(Click Title to read Review)
NOTE: When ordering
any reviewed book - ask for NEWSLETTER DISCOUNT!
[Order It!]
PRINT TITLES ~ Go to e-Book Reviews
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NOAH. Jacquelyn Frank (NIGHTWALKERS) Reviewed by
Marlene Breakfield
[Sept]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
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Noah, the Demon King, has been dreaming of a woman, whom he knows is his mate.
Unfortunately, Noah doesn't know how to find this woman and , finally, asks for
help from the druid, whose power is to track a Demon's mate. Unluckily, Noah's
mate, Kestra Irons, has a dangerous profession and is leery of emotional
entanglements. Meanwhile, rogue Vampires are killing Nightwalkers and stealing
their powers, making it dangerous for all Nightwalkers.
Finally, Noah's story has arrived! I've been waiting for his story,
since the very first book in the Nightwalkers series. Noah is the strong,
powerful leader of the Demons, who must keep his emotions in check, because if
he doesn't, the consequences would be disastrous. Ever since his last sister
left to get married, Noah has felt the loneliness keenly, and with each Samhain
and Beltane. his grip on his emotions becomes more tenuous. When Noah locates
his mate, he begins to hope, Unfortunately, Kestra is a very tortured heroine,
who finds trust hard to give.
Noah and Kestra make a great couple, and the reader gets to catch up
with many familiar faces from the series. Although NOAH is a great
addition to the Nightwalkers series, this book seems to focus more on the
relationship between the hero and heroine and less on the action and intrigue,
than the other books in the series. While there is plenty of action and suspense
in this book, it seems rather toned down, when compared to the other books. I
greatly enjoyed NOAH and didn't mind this slight shift of focus from the other
books in the series.
All in all, NOAH is a wonderful, greatly anticipated addition to the
Nightwalkers series, and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
For PNR Reviews
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MYSTIC RIDER. Patricia Rice
Paperback [paranormal romance] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[Aug]
$7.99 BI Price: $6.40
Newsletter Discount $6.08
[Order It!]
 |
Ian Olympus, whose family has ruled the mystic isle of Aelynn for centuries,
must be the first Olympus to leave the isle in centuries. Because Ian can see
possible future events, he knows that his future is entwined with a French
woman, Chantal Deveau. Ian sees that Chantal is in some way tied to the chalice,
which is missing from his island. Ever since the chalice has been missing,
natural disasters have become more prevalent on the island. Ian must restore the
chalice to its rightful home and hunt down a renegade exile, Murdoch, who has
been causing trouble in the outside world.
MYSTIC RIDER is an exciting, paranormal romance, which takes place during the
French Revolution and contains lots of adventure and danger. Ian is a very
powerful ruler, who is used to being in control and having his orders obeyed.
Then, Ian meets lovely revolutionary, Chantal, and gets thrown for a loop.
Chantal is a little too naive and idealistic for my tastes, but she helps Ian
realize that change is needed in his kingdom and really shakes things up.
All in all, MYSTIC RIDER is an enjoyable paranormal romance, which I recommend.
I'm waiting impatiently for the next story, hopefully Murdoch's. Murdoch will
make a yummy, redeemable hero.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
For PNR Reviews
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SHADES OF DARK. Linnea Sinclair (sequel to
GABRIEL'S GHOST)
paperback [Sci-fi Romance] Reviewed by Michele Patrykus
[Aug]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
 |
This is one of the rare titles that tell it all. SHADES will take you through
darkness and light and a little bit of madness.
We again follow the tale of Captain Chaz Bergren and her lover Gabriel Ross
Sullivan, a rare human "Kyi-Ragkiril". Their travels will take you to renegade
gen labs, abandoned space docks and the inner most of the "human" heart and soul
with its shades of dark.
Ms Sinclair will introduce you to new friends and new fiends -- Monsters of the
soul and Angels of the heart. So if you like anguish, true love or just a good
bar fight, you are sure to enjoy "SHADES OF DARK". For me, all of Ms Sinclair's
books, in any form, are keepers!
Reviewed by Michele Patrykus
For Book Isle Paperbacks
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SHADES OF DARK. Linnea Sinclair (sequel to
GABRIEL'S GHOST)
paperback [Sci-fi Romance] Reviewed by Cy Korte
[Aug]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
 |
You’ll find reports from Sully’s ghost ship and the crew of the KARN are now
available in SHADES OF DARK! SHADES OF DARK continues the story of Sully
and Chaz about 3 months after GABRIEL'S GHOST. This continuation of
their story is fulfilling from all aspects -
relationships, politics and space adventures are mixed with love, suspense and
action.
The crew of the KARN learns the Federation is falling apart when they rescue
Chaz's ex-husband and the action escalates from there. We meet some new players
and lose some old friends in this war. Meanwhile, someone from the crew is
betraying them and emotions are high. Gabriel [Sully] and Chaz continue to share
something special and their Kyi-psi link is growing - while they still have
differences of opinion and sometimes separate agendas. The prince of the
Kyi-Ragkiril appears as friend and mentor, but he has an agenda of his own that
might prove more dangerous to Sully and Chaz than the traitor on their ship.
SHADES OF DARK is just so-o-o-o go-o-o-od! I LOVED IT! If you liked GABRIEL'S
GHOST, this sequel is a MUST! Ms Sinclair not only continues the aura of
GABRIEL'S GHOST with Chaz and Sully, but the storytelling cranks up a notch with
more suspense and action as well as tragedy. This book is another for the
'keeper shelf' but that's not all... I hear the publisher was smart enough
to request more from this world as the rebellion continues -- woo-who! book
futures are lookin' good! -- almost as good as Chaz's ex!
Reviewed by Cy Korte
For eBookIsle.net
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DAGGER-STAR. Elizabeth Vaughan
paperback [Fantasy] Reviewed by Cy Korte
[July]
$7.99 BI Price: $6.40
Newsletter Discount $6.08
[Order It!]
 |
Rain fell as Red Gloves and her sword-sister, Bethral, came out of the bog to
knock on the door of
the only shelter in the area. Josaih begrudgingly offers them the barn with his
goats. When he
walks in while Red Gloves is washing, he sees her dagger-star birthmark. Red
Gloves is a mercenary
and follows the ‘Way of the Twelve’ rather than Lord of Light and Lady of
Laughter; so rejects his
statement that she is the Chosen of Palins that prophecy says will reunite the
kingdom.
Josaih is more than a goat-herder and there is more to the prophecy than being
born with a
dagger-star birthmark. Although Red Gloves and Josaih have no paranormal
talents, we meet Elves,
priests and High priestess of Palins, Mages and wild magic.
Bethral, who got Red to take this quest for adventure, finds her own fate
unfolding with events.
Red Gloves is as aggressive and insolent as you would expect of a mercenary and
grief-stricken
Josaih begins to heal as the battle strategy unfolds. The fast-action story and
the adventure is
captivating. The wonderful world and variety of characters make this a book you will find
hard to put down.
DAGGER-STAR is on the same world as the Warlands Trilogy, but involves different
kingdoms and
characters. Except for a storyteller offering to tell the Tale of Xy, there is
no connection. Although after you enjoy reading this story you may wish to read
her other titles. The story has the
same writing style of developing relationships, quests and subplots with lots of
action. If you had put the 'Warland' trilogy on your keeper shelf,
you will want to put this one on your April must-buy list.
Reviewed by Cy Korte
for eBookIsle.net
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DAGGER-STAR. Elizabeth Vaughan
paperback [Fantasy] Reviewed by Michele Patrykus
[July]
$7.99 BI Price: $6.40
Newsletter Discount $6.08 [Order It!]
 |
Mercenaries Red Gloves and her companion, Bethral are lost in the rain and have
traveled through a mud field and are NOT in a good mood. In Red's world there is
only one rule "if you see Red without her gloves run very fast.
Josiah is a man who has lost everything and lives in exile with a herd of goats.
He lives in the only shelter for miles on an old battle field that used to be
his home. Finding mercenaries knocking on his door late during a rainy night was
NOT an auspicious meeting.
When he sees the birthmark, he tells Red Gloves of the prophesy saying a person
with the Dagger-Star birthmark will restore peace. Although she initially
rejects the prophecy, fate brings these three together in a fight to over turn
the reigning lord and his mage.
I loved the Warlands Trilogy and waited impatiently for Ms Vaughan's new book.
DAGGER-STAR more than met my expectations! Ms Vaughan has introduced a whole new
cast of characters and magical creatures who you really must meet. Just
remember, take heed of the gloves.
Reviewed by Michele Patrykus
For Book Isle Paperbacks
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Games of Command. Linnea Sinclair
Paperback [Sci-fi romance] Reviewed by Cy Korte
PEARL AWARD
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32 [Order It!]
 |
After years of war, Keltish Triad and the United Coalition have formed an
alliance but will it last? In a world where alliance does not mean friends, will
a new threat be discovered to destroy the peace?
Branden Kel-Paten, the Admiral commanding First Fleet, has demanded that Captain
Tasha Sebastian be stationed on his ship and to get her there he has agreed that
some of her crew will join his crew. This includes Tasha's friend, Doctor Eden
Fynn, Chief Medical Officer. To complete the cast of the crew on Triad
Huntership "Vaxxar" there is Reilly, Eden's fursal and Tank, Sass' fursal.
Although Doc Eden wishes to stay on planet to discover what is causing
mysterious deaths, Vaxxar has been ordered to capture Pirate Captain Jace
Serafino. The pirate is Kel- Paten's long-time enemy, one of the few besides
Sass to make him loose his legendary cool.
Sass lives up to her name with humor and dialog through- out the story. The
telepathic focus in the story compliments the science which is well written.
Fans of Star Trek will see its influence in this space opera.
GAMES OF COMMAND is a stand-alone book includes science fiction and romance in a
balance that will satisfy both genre readers. The emotion, action and suspense
will keep you turning pages until the very end and still wish for more.
For those who may ask - this is NOT a rewrite of COMMAND PERFORMANCE! Although
there are certain similarities, this is a new story albeit with the same
characters and similar bones.
Reviewed by Cy Korte
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THE DOWN HOME ZOMBIE BLUES. Linnea Sinclair [RT Top Pick]
Paperback [Sci-Fi Satire] Reviewed by Cy Korte
PEARL AWARD HONORABLE MENTION
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32 [Order It!]
 |
After reading this book you will forget your preconceived
idea of ZOMBIES! For those who enjoyed the movies MEN IN BLACK and MIB II,
you will enjoy this book's humor and storyline.
Bio-engineered creatures called ZOMBIES were originally designed for
protection but have turned murderous and it is up to the Interplanetary
Guardian Force to seek and destroy.
It's Christmas in Bahia Vista, Florida, USA and Homicide Detective Sergeant
Theo Petrakos was not looking forward to the holidays with friends and
family match-making efforts. He had one last call before his vacation begins
but he wasn’t sure weird was an accurate case description. A strangely
mummified body went to the morgue and his responsibility is to take some
sort of hi-tech computer equipment to the station. The last thing he
expected while making a short stop by his home was the appearance of monster
and a sassy pint-size lady warrior coming to his aide.
Since the Tresh Border War ended, Commander Jorie Mikkalah is part of the
Guardian Force. She is dealing with shipboard politics which includes an
ex-lover who has given her questionable evaluation and Captain Pietr who
pits one officer against the other. Finding her way on a nil-tech planet
whose strange language is similar to Vekran is not the easiest duty, but a
friend assigned to Earth has not made contact and she feared he was dead.
While attempting to recover the T-MOD and escape from ZOMBIE attack she
transports Theo with her to her ship.
Although Jorie presents her suspicion that there is more than ZOMBIES on
Earth, Captain Pietr is not convinced. After some tactful arguments, the
Captain agrees to allow Theo to work with Jorie and her team to resolve
Earth's ZOMBIE situation. They soon find the true extent of danger and must
work with what and who is available despite regulations. Amidst distress and
damage, these unlikely partners discover they are more alike than expected.
The fast-paced, unfolding of danger and melding of their efforts builds a
believable adventure with a sly humor. The characters respect for duty and
chain-of-command and frustration over its limitations as well as snippets
showing differences and similarities in their relationships present a
well-rounded troop. The humorous perceptions of Earth by Jorie and her
rescue team added to the actions and reactions of Theo, his friends, family
and neighbors build layers and details that readers will appreciate.
For further reader enjoyment, Ms Sinclair has links a video book blurb and
the song DOWN HOME ZOMBIE BLUES available for fans who visit her web site.
Reviewed by Cy Korte
For PNR REVIEWS
SEE BOOKS BY LINNEA SINCLAIR
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Gabriel's Ghost. Linnea Sinclair
paperback [Sci-fi Romance] Reviewed by Cy Korte
[July]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
 |
In family military tradition, Chasidah 'Chaz' Bergren was a dedicated captain of
an interstellar patrol ship. The shock of a railroaded court-martial and
sentence of life imprisonment on Moabar had barely set in when she received an
offer from a nemesis she thought was dead.
Gabriel "Sully" Sullivan was not a ghost, but an intergalactic pirate on a
mission of mercy. Sully needs Chaz's help uncovering a deadly plot involving
high council members of the empire. Their survival skills and determination are
put to the test and on a more personal level, Chaz's trust and growing affection
is tested time and time again as one-by-one she learns Gabriel's secrets.
Sully is an intriguing mix of authority and power with insecurity that grabs
your heart. Chaz is sassy and pragmatic and is comfortable with her feminine
disposition. Sully's friend Ren, Chaz's ex-husband Philip and her brother Thad
may be secondary characters, but they are not secondary in this quest. The
subtle weaving of events into a complex but easily followed plot makes this a
book for your keeper shelf.
SHADES OF DARK continues the story of Sully and Chaz only months after
the ending of GABRIEL'S GHOST. This sequel coming August 2008,
Reviewed by Cy Korte
For eBookIsle.net
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Wicked Game. Jeri Smith-Ready
Trade Paperback [Urban Fantasy/ Vampire] Reviewed by Cy Korte
[June]
$14.00 ~ BI
Price: $11.20 Newsletter Discount $10.64
[Order It!]
 |
Ciara Griffin is wary when she starts her job at WMMP as Marketing intern. The
station will be sold to Skyware conglomerate unless ad revenue picks up.
Inspired when she learns that the DJ's are vampires, Ciara promotes the station
as WVMP, the Lifeblood of Rock and Roll, exploiting the Vamp factor for instant
success. Then comes trouble when an ancient vampire cult objects and Control, a
group created to protect good vampires and kill bad ones, lets their concerns be
known.
Ciara, who is trying to overcome her past has distanced herself from her
con-artist parents. So it is a shock when she learns that her unique past is
what got her this job. Her character is the pivot of the story and a stabalizing
point for the vampires in the tale. She uses their Obsessive - Compulsive link
to the era they died to bring them into today's world using her own unique
insights from her upbringing.
For those like me who are not music triva buffs, this is still an entertaining
read and for those who are, I believe you will find some fun facts presented as
part of the plot. The story has some dark moments that definately rate the story
as a thriller; but all-in-all is an enjoyable trip in urban fantasy that will
leave you with a smile and hoping for more to come.
Reviewed by Cy Korte
For eBookIsle.net
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WILD (Pack of St. James #1). Noelle Mack
Trade Paperback [paranormal romance] Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray [June]
$14.00 ~ BI
Price: $11.20 Newsletter Discount $10.64
[Order It!]
 |
The Pack of St. James promises to be an exceptional paranormal series for
Kensington's Brava line. Three brothers, Kryil, Marko and Semyon, are defenders
of the British Crown; however, ancient blood of Russian wolves flow through
their veins. A legend among the ton's females for their sexual prowess, women
want them, men fear them, only none know their deep dark secret. That is about
to change. A reckless act has put the pack at peril. Now a "hunter" is roaming
the streets of London in search of "prey" - men who are part-wolf.
In this darkly sensual tale, author Noelle Mack vividly conjures the world of
the richest part of fashionable London. Yet, in stark contrast, she shows there
is an underbelly to the town, a different, ugly world of drugs, women few have
value for other than to use, smuggling, and a killer stalking the dimly lit
corridors of Londontown in search of the three brothers and a priceless relic
that they value above all other.
Kryil's love for Vivienne Sheridan, catalyst to the coming confrontation, is
portrayed through richly erotic scenes that pepper this story, demonstrating
Mack's talent for pace and beauty of the written word. WILD is a tale of
revenge, passion, love, and the strong drive to protect your kindred, leaving
the reader eager for more of this Pack of St. James.
Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray, author
For
PNR Reviews
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DAMIEN. Jacquelyn Frank (Nightwalkers #4)
Paperback [Urban Fantasy Romance] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[June]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
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Damien, the Vampire prince, travels to the recently discovered, ancient
Nightwalker Library, which is in Lycanthrope territory. Once there, Damien meets
Syreena, a Lycanthrope princess, again. When Syreena is kidnapped by Ruth, an
evil, black-magic welding Demon, Damien tracks them and saves Syreena. Damien
and Syreena are very attracted to each other. Unfortunately, Vampires don't
marry, Lycanthrope princesses mate for life, and Ruth is lurking, waiting to
unleash her latest deadly scheme.
DAMIEN is a welcome addition to the Nightwalker series, which is action-packed
and full of wonderful characters. Ms. Frank's creates an amazing world, which is
intricate and unique. Damien is one of the oldest Vampires, who has lived by
trusting his instincts. Syreena, on the other hand, has been conditioned to
caution and the consideration of all options. These two seemingly opposite
Nightwalkers are made for each other. However, convincing Syreena of that fact
is a very hard task, especially since it is taboo for a Vampire to marry another
Nightwalker.
DAMIEN is a real page-turner,which kept me up way past my bedtime. I highly
recommend it and can't wait for the release of Noah's book.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
For PNR Reviews
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DANCING WITH WEREWOLVES (Delilah Street, Paranormal
Investigator 1). Carole Nelson Douglas
Paperback [SHIFTER romance] Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray
[June]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
[Order It!]
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A strange phenomena--when an author changes style or direction, there's often a
violent knee-jerk reaction from fans to the shift. You constantly see people
complaining about an author doing the same old, same old. Yet, let a writer give
you a fresh premise, a plot totally unlike anything she's done before and
readers surprisingly scream, 'burn the witch'. I think readers--fans--often seek
long time authors out for 'comfort food'. The books may not be exciting, but you
know what your money is going for; it's safe. Despite the whines of 'nothing
new', when an author makes that about face, they nearly get stoned! Carole
Nelson Douglas --long time author with over fifty titles to her credit in the
Irene Adler series and the Midnight Louie series--hops to another publisher and
gives you the wildly zany Dancing With Werewolves. While I love her other
stories, I truly enjoyed this book, and look forward to others in the series to
come.
It's sharply written, very witty and kept me turning pages until I read the
whole book in one sitting. As fans become accustomed to this new direction for
this talented author, I fully expect to see praise for her new style.
In a genre that's quickly filling with authors left and right, Nelson brings a
fresh and sassy voice to Delilah Street. A woman with a dim past, she knows she
was named after the street where she was found orphaned. She's currently an
investigative reporter heading up the paranormal beat in Wichita, Kansas. The
theme reminded me faintly of the movie Fred Ward did for HBO (Cast a Deadly
Spell, 1991), where paranormal was normal. I absolutely adored Ward's Harry
Phillip Lovecraft character, so it follows I would enjoy this book, too.
While watching a television show, Delilah spots a cadaver being dissected and
gets a chill. The 'dead body' could be her twin sister! When the vampire
anchorman tries to put the bite on her and she ends up fired, then she loses her
dog and her home, Delilah figures someone is trying to tell her it's time to
take the show on the road--and find out if there's a clone who may be her
sister.
Vegas has always been considered a bit strange, but in this alternative world,
werewolves are literally running the town. Besides the werewolves, there are a
few witches and other not quite humans that keep the plot moving and full of
surprises. As in the Ward movie, it's an odd blend on urban fantasy and film
noir that is brought to life under the talented pen...hum...keyboard of Ms.
Douglas.
My husband absolutely adored this book, so it should appeal to both sexes.
Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray, author
For
PNR REVIEWS
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LIKE A CHARM. Candace Havens
Trade Paperback [Paranormal Romance] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[June]
$14.00 ~ BI
Price: $11.20 Newsletter Discount $10.64
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Kira Smythe returned to her hometown of Sweet, Texas after a very traumatic
experience left her drained mentally and physically. Once in Sweet, which is a
very eccentric and magical town, Kira begins to hear voices. Meanwhile, Kira
meets sexy carpenter, Caleb Price, who is more than he seems. After Kira's
mentor dies and leaves her the town's magical library, Kira finds herself seeing
dead people and trying to come to grips with the changes in her life.
LIKE A CHARM is an interesting paranormal romance, which delves deeply into
Kira's character. Because it is told in first person, LIKE A CHARM gives great
insight into Kira's fears and insecurities. Unfortunately, all these thoughts
seemed to slow the pacing of the story and it seemed to drag toward the middle.
However, the story picked up toward the end, with less self-doubt and more
action.
All in all, LIKE A CHARM is an enjoyable paranormal with a heroine, who gets my
dream life. Sexy man + magical library = dream life
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
For eBookIsle.net and
PNR Reviews
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THE BRIDE OF TIME. Dawn Thompson
Paperback [Time-travel romance] Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray
[July]
$7.99 BI Price: $6.40
Newsletter Discount $6.08
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THE BRIDE OF TIME is a time-travel, as one might infer from
the title, and it's another of author Dawn Thompson's tour de force books
that continually amazed me with just how talented she was. Tessa LaPrelle is
a scullery maid in Poole House. She speaks proper English, has manners of a
lady, but she is nothing more than a maid in the year 1903. On her day off,
she stumbles across the self-portrait of Giles Longworth and is drawn to the
image of the handsome artist, as well as another of his paintings called
'The Bride of Time'. The painting was done in 1811 at the commission of the
Prince of England, and Tessa and patrons of the small gallery are surprised
to see that it's her face on the painting. She is continually called back to
the Longworth paintings, which seem to embody everything her life is not.
Later, she is accused of stealing a pearl brooch from the owner of Poole
House. She escapes the Bobbies by accidently stumbling over a ley line that
carries her back to Longhallow Abbey, and face-to-face with its mysterious
owner Giles Longworth.
In the year of 1811, Tessa is mistaken for the new governess for Giles's
ward, Monty, who sends governesses running in terror and no small wonder, as
this child is more than a brat, he is evil incarnate, cursed from his Gypsy
mother's blood. Rumors abound that Longworth killed his wife and her lover,
maybe even killed Monty's step- mother, Giles's sister, and her unborn
child. Then there are the dead animals, and sometimes dead people, in the
small hamlet near the Abbey in the wilds of Cornwall, all left with their
throats ripped out. Tessa soon sees her charge is troubled, but wonders if
his guardian isn't partly to blame. The man is nearly brutal with the child,
spends his time sloshed with Brandy, and locked up in his garret studio
painting like mad. Or is he really mad? Mad or tormented, Tessa cannot
resist the man.
Time-traveling ley lines, werewolves, Gypsy curses, and more fill this
wonderful novel that keeps the reader turning pages. Thompson was a
beautiful writer, a true storyteller, and this is just another marvelous
book in the long line of titles spanning her 'shooting star' career. Giles
and Tessa's love that spans the years is one that touched my heart, and will
linger long in memory after the book is put down. Another Dawn Thompson
novel for my Keeper Shelf.
Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray, author
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THE RAVENING (Blood Moon 3). Dawn
Thompson
Paperback [vampire romance] Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray
[June]
$6.99 BI Price $5.60
Newsletter Discount $5.32
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I have truly enjoyed BLOOD MOON and THE BROTHERHOOD, the first two in this
series, but have so waited for The Ravening, the third book. And WOW! Dawn
Thompson conjured up a new vampire hybrid in a market where everyone said
nothing could be done that hasn't already been done. Thompson does what she is
best at - goes back to the original roots of mythology, in this case, back to
where vampire lore started. She created a hybrid of Stoker's Dracula and Regency
Romance, a period where Thompson seems most at home. She made the series new,
without all the modern day trappings, and got it back to its dark origins, in a
sexy, savvy series of both that please horror readers as well as romance
readers.
IN creating Milosh, the Gypsy vampire hunter, she gave us a hero that was
itching to break out into his own book. Finally, we get to see Milosh in his
full glory. Milosh has lived over four centuries now. Milosh is a vampire, but
because of the Blood Moon Ceremony, he is able to live his life in control of
the hunger that affects vampires. He has tirelessly worked to see others like
him protect the world from the undead monsters that stalk unsuspecting humans.
He's formed the Brotherhood, those like him that are dedicated to stopping the
evil menace. Only, even he is not above the rule of the Brotherhood, and it may
cost him his life.
The book takes up in Cumberland, England in the late 1800s, the Victorian era.
Milosh is a legend among the vampire hunters, but he still must face his ancient
enemy, Sebastian Valentine. Sebastian's trail has brought Milosh near Whitebrair
Abbey, where the Hyde-Whites now live (first two books). Only the place is now
in ruins. He pauses to rest in the burnt out ruins, and there meets Paloma, a
beautiful Gypsy.
Paloma has been bitten and needs blood, and she makes the mistake of biting
Milosh. In a bizarre change, she is now immune from the vampire blood lust, but
Milosh has been turned back into what he hates most -- a vampire. Only, in
taking the blood that has saved her, she becomes the target of those wanting the
power her blood now contains.
Milosh calls upon the Brotherhood to save her, no longer believing he can
control his blood ravening. The Brotherhood that he built may have to kill him
to keep her safe. The only thing that can save him is The Blood Moon Ceremony.
But will he be able to perform the ceremony in time? The next cycle would be two
years away; too late to save him. It's now or never.
The Ravening is very much a stand-alone story, but for pure enjoyment read all
three in order. Thompson, one of the most beautiful writers in romance today,
has done a knock out job of delivering an amazing trilogy. Dark, sexy, scary. It
just doesn't get any better than this!
Reviewed by Deborah Macgillivray, author
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WHEN NIGHT FALLS. Kaitlyn O'Connor
New Concepts Publishing [futuristic erotic romance] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[Aug]
Available @ BOOK ISLE Download $4.50
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Dr. Tessa Bergin is thrilled to be joining an
expedition, that is traveling to another world, in order to make contact
with an alien civilization. Unfortunately, when the group of scientists
arrive at the planet, they find the civilization decimated by some
unknown disaster. when the away team fails to report back as scheduled,
the other scientists decide to wait about sending a rescue mission.
Tessa notices the fear in the other scientists and realizes, that the
likely outcome is that they will leave the away team behind. Because
Tessa's best friend is among the members of the away team, Tessa decides
to commandeer a shuttle and go in search of her friend. Once on the
surface of the planet, Tessa is attacked by aliens, who resemble the
demons of legend. Tessa manages to fend the aliens off, until she is
saved by another alien, Lucien. Will Tessa and Lucien be able to survive
on this extremely harsh planet, and will Tessa ever find her friend?
WHEN NIGHT FALLS is an exciting, attention-grabbing, futuristic romance
with many erotic scenes. Although there were times that the way Lucien
treated Tessa made me uncomfortable, readers who like dominating heroes
might find these scenes appealing. The conflict between Tessa and Lucien
is mainly a difference in culture and a lack of communication. After
they get to know each other, Tessa and Lucien's relationship grows, and
Lucien has to make some tough decisions. Actually, WHEN NIGHT FALLS has
a sort of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST theme, although Lucien is described as
quite sexy.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
For eBookIsle
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THE WAYWARD WIND. Charlotte Boyett-Compo
New Concepts Publishing [western erotic romance] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[July]
Available @ BOOK ISLE Download $3.50
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Sloan Harper has escaped from the most horrendous
circumstances in a late nineteenth century prison. The only thing that
kept Sloan going during his years in prison was the thought of revenge
on the man, who had him incarcerated unjustly. As a way of revenge,
Sloan decides to kidnap his enemy's only child, Peyton Dalton. Peyton is
Dalton's heir and prized possession and Sloan hopes to get his revenge
through her. In Peyton, Sloan gets much more than he bargained for.
THE WAYWARD WIND is an intense, western, erotic romance with lots of
action. Some readers might take exception with Sloan's behavior in the
beginning. However, it soon becomes clear that Sloan's bitter exterior
and hardened outlook hide a great depth of character. Peyton is a very
feisty, older heroine, who overcomes great adversity and doesn't sit on
the sidelines waiting for rescue. Also, there are several wonderful
secondary characters, as well as a brutal villain. It is a breath of
fresh air to have an overweight, older heroine, instead of the usual
barbie-doll like heroine.
All in all, THE WAYWARD WIND is a rip-roaring western romance with
sizzling love scenes. Just a word of warning, there is a forced
seduction, which some readers might find objectionable.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
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LYCAN LORE. Shannon Leigh
Amber Quill Press [Dark Fantasy/ Shifter] Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
[July]
Available @ BOOK ISLE Download $6.00
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Cassie feels like the odd-man out when she goes camping
with her friend, Heather, and Heather's boyfriend. When a mysterious
stranger appears and helps Cassie with her tent, she thinks things might
be looking up. Unfortunately, Heather's boyfriend is acting strangely
and Cray, the new man in Cassie's life, gives her a warning and a knife
for protection.
LYCAN LORE is just as much a horror story as a werewolf romance. In
fact, LYCAN LORE would make a great screenplay for a horror movie. As a
lover of werewolf movies, I would certainly go see this one! At first,
the pacing of the story is a little slow, but soon, the action amps up
to a nail-biting crescendo. The romance between Cassie and Cray sizzles
and the villain is eerily creepy. LYCAN LORE is a must read for the
lover of werewolf stories.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield
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ONE FOR LOVE. Emma Wildes (Wicked
Warlock Society 1)
Siren Publishing [paranormal historical romance] Reviewed by Marlene
Breakfield
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David Barrett, the Earl of Dunreith, has been in love
with his neighbor, Victoria Caldwell, since they were children. Because
there are rumors that Victoria plans to accept an offer of marriage,
David takes matters into his own hands and sets out to compromise
Victoria using a spell. Unfortunately, David has secrets, that threaten
to tear the couple apart.
ONE FOR LOVE is a paranormal, historical romance with great period feel
and wonderful characters. At first, I had doubts about David's
character, after all, he uses a spell to aid in his seduction of
Victoria. Luckily, David soon redeems himself and becomes a yummy
hero--reserved and aloof on the outside with strong hidden depths and
passions. Victoria is no shrinking violet and is a great match for
David. Even though that is the case, Victoria acts in a way consistent
with a regency lady. Kudos to Ms. Wilde for the accuracy of her period
details!
All in all, ONE FOR LOVE is highly recommended to the paranormal reader
and the regency reader.
Reviewed by Marlene Breakfield |
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