Alternative-Read.com

REVIEW: Questing by Barbara Huffert | Bk1 | Ellora's Cave

2009-11-24T22:06:00.013Z

Title: Questing, Cosmic Connection, Book One
Author: Barbara Huffert
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Romantic Suspense
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419921926
Length: Super Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

What's a girl to do when a man's voice renders her mute and inept? For Kiley Fisher it's avoidance at all costs, until a man with nasty intentions plans to use her for nefarious purposes. Dealing with the sexual frustration of wanting a man who turns you into a moist puddle of wantonness doesn't help an already precarious situation.

From the first moment he sets eyes on Kiley, Jordan McKade knows he's met his future. All he has to do now is figure out how to get the woman of his dreams to even speak to him. Promising himself to take it slow and easy works until a crook makes use of Kiley to make himself "disappear". Then all bets are off and the only thing to do is go for it and keep her safe at the same time.

I found this an amusing (not in a bad way) look at the possibility of love/lust turning a normally capable female into a mass of palpitating nerves incapable of coherency when faced with the object of her desires. It has all the makings of a good read with the insecurities, good sense, chivalry and "normalcy" of it's characters creating vivid pictures of important scenes. There are a few twists to keep it interesting.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Supper for a Song |Tamasin Day-Lewis

2009-11-24T21:34:00.001Z

Supper for a Song

Pass me the Peche de Vigne, darling!

Author Tamasin Day-Lewis, UK celebrity chef and food writer for theDaily Telegraph, Vanity Fair, Vogue and Food Illustrated, has puttogether a nice looking and detailed book from which the back of thebook blurb quotes "To feed a family for a song and still encompass allthat is great is down to Tamasin's amazing passion, with an eye to thepurse strings." This lead me to believe it would be a more simple "howto spread your meals further and save money" type of book.

In some ways it is just that, but not in the true sense since manyof the ingredients are not what the average household would have intheir pantry. She does encourage the reader to be creative, but mostresourceful cooks when being prudent in the kitchen will not forage inthe fridge, field and larder in search of things like Monkfish, WildSalmon, Squid, expensive cheeses, vanilla pods, peche de vigne, and avariety of Port or wine, as suggested. Well, not in my house anyway!

The book also claims to have advice on things like keeping thestore cupboard well stocked, and how to make the most of seasonalgluts, but for a cookbook missing a contents page this was not easilyfound. For these reasons I'm giving this book three stars. As a generalcookbook it works. It is creative and I do like her suggestion forroast chicken with sausage, sage and prune stuffing, and what to dowith the carcass. I have even tried a few of the recipes in the HappyFood and The Saturday Bake sections, with some success! However, for abook that at first appears to be written for those on a budget it's notquite as satisfying as her delectable (expensive) puddings and laysheavy on me.

This is an Amazon Vine Review

Publisher: Quadrille Publishing Ltd
Length: 192 Pages
Publish Date: 2nd October 2009
Format: Hardcover
ISBN-13: 978-1844007431
Review by Sassy Brit
Alternative-Read.com

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Maxwell's Fall by Tielle St. Clare from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-23T22:19:00.001Z

Title: Maxwell's Fall
Author: Tielle St. Clare
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Menage or More/ M/M/Shapeshifter
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419922596
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Concocting a devious plan to prove her father's innocence, Mandy is relying on her good friend Jackson to help her put it into motion. It seems as if he's turned into another person entirely, becoming brash and bold instead of quiet and cautious. At least he's still willing to help with her plan, but it's hard to ignore the new Jackson who makes her think of forbidden things.

Coming to Alaska to visit his twin, Max finds himself in the odd position of being drawn not only to the opposite type of woman he normally dates, but his brother's very handsome,discerning male friend. Now if he can find his missing brother, keep Mandy out of harm's way and settle the odd ache in his chest in regards to her and Gideon, things might work out okay.

Never has a case of mistaken identity proved to be as entertaining (serious issues aside) as this one was. While shifters are fairly common in books these days, it's nice to find one with a few twists to keep me engaged. The characters are interesting, the situation dramatic and there's action to make it well rounded. I'm waiting to see where this goes as it seems prime for series.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

BOOK BLOGGER HOLIDAY SWAP: I'm a secret santa - I love it!

2009-11-22T23:22:00.000Z

HO! HO! HO!

I've signed up for this and just got the name of the totally random person I'm getting a Christmas pressie for, and without giving anything away, because it wouldn't be secret, I'm going to tell you one thing...

Shush! And come closer...

*Looks around to see if anyone is listening in*

When the name popped up I thought...

OH MY GOD, I KNOW HER!

That should keep a few of you guessing.

Oh, I am SO excited!

SECRET SANTA SASSY

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Dimensions by Patricia Otto from Cerridwen Press

2009-11-22T06:08:00.002Z

Title: Dimensions
Author: Patricia Otto
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal/ Romance
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419921438
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

To awaken in a place where time and date are the only recognizable things is not only confusing, but a bit horrifying to Gwyneth McGowan. When a man in a uniform calls her by name, she thinks it's a stroke of good fortune, until she realizes that apparently the world she now resides in is a cross between America in her colonial days and Merry Old England in the time Knights were predominant. All Gwen wants is to go home, wherever that might be now.

When Captain Thane Garren goes to accomplish the mission assigned by his king, all he wants in return is the reward of going home as promised. The feisty female he mistakenly gets instead of the childhood friend he's supposed to is fast becoming an obsession instead of a mission. The last thing he needs is to fall for the woman who is soon to become his queen.

Is an alternate reality possible and would I want to go there? Probably, just to see if my life there is the same, better or worse than in this one. I liked the fact that this one was a mix of our history and therefore easily recognizable, but have to admit that it's the characters reactions that keep this one a fun read. Misconceptions, misdirection and lusty sex mingled with a good style and a touch of humor lend a hand in making this one work.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

EXCERPT: Naughty Nanny Series....Stay by Reana Malori (IR Erotic) PG-13

2009-11-21T07:14:00.005Z

Genre: IR Erotic

ISBN: 978-0-557-13112-9

Publisher: Shara Azod, LLC

Blurb:

Loving Rick Harper's children has been the only thing Cherie Gilbert has thought about for the past three years. Oh yeah, she thought about their sexy father as well. Will a misunderstanding - a misheard conversation - ruin their chance at love. Cherie's willing to walk away from the love of her life. Rick's job is to convince her to stay.

PG-13 Excerpt:

Rick never thought he would feel this way about a woman again. When Susan had died after giving birth to the twins, he wasn't sure he'd be able to recover. His heart had been broken into such tiny pieces that nothing could penetrate his defenses. Only the sweet faces of his two children pulled him from the abyss. His parents had told him that he would get better in time, that life would go on. He'd never believed them. Not until an angel had walked into his life and made him believe in love again.

Cherie loved his kids with everything she had. Her eyes were full of affection and pride each time they presented her with trinkets or artwork created at school. He'd always thought she would be around, that he had plenty of time to tell her how he felt. Sitting here on the bed, watching her try to hold back the tears caused by his casual remark she'd heard out of context, Rick knew he had to fix this situation and fast.

"Don't cry, Cherie. Please, you have to listen to me. We don't want you to leave. I know it's late, but if you let me explain, it'll make sense."

Looking into her eyes and drowning in the chocolate-brown color, he knew he was lost. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. Looking his fill, he thought nothing was more beautiful than the woman he loved sitting here with him tonight.

Making a split-second decision he hoped wouldn't come back to bite him in the ass, Rick knew he had to taste her. Releasing her hands and cradling her face, he pulled her close to him as he lowered his head. He vaguely noticed her eyes widen in what appeared to be shock; but when she realized what was about to happen, her body relaxed.

The first touch of his lips against her soft, lush mouth was like heaven. He tried not to press too hard or move too fast. This wasn't about conquering. This was about acceptance and convincing. Convincing Cherie how he felt about her. Opening his lips slightly, his tongue traced the contours of Cherie's mouth; and when she moaned deep in her throat, he knew he'd struck gold.

Coaxing Cherie to open her mouth, he brushed his tongue against hers. Using some slight suction, he pulled her tongue into his mouth as he continued to pour all the love he had for her into this one kiss.

Moving one hand away from her face, he traced the shape of her back and pulled her body closer to him. Her nipples hardened against his chest, and Rick knew he needed more. The time had come for them to be together and he prayed Cherie wouldn't back away from him. He'd waited so long to hold her in his arms like this. He didn't think he could ever let her go.

Reluctantly pulling away from her mouth, Rick's breath was ragged and his voice was husky with his pent-up need, "Cherie, please, I need this night with you. You must know how much I want you. How much I need you. Don't leave me. Don't push me away." At the sultry look in her eyes, Rick saw there was no turning back. He knew he couldn't let her go. He simply wasn't willing to do it, no matter what.

Lulu

All Romance E-Books

--
http://classynsassypromotions.blogspot.com/

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Red Heat by Lynne Connolly from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-21T03:46:00.001Z

Title: Red Heat
Author: Lynne Connolly
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419922435
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

On a secret mission for the IRDC, Jillian has no idea what to expect when she comes into contact with Chase. Believing she is "trained" to behave like his beloved lost in a wreck, she is astounded when he simply feels "right". Now he's telling her she has it wrong about Talents, but she doesn't know what to believe any more. On the one hand she can't possibly love a man who's evil, but why would the IRDC
lie about what Talents are out to do?

When his beloved Jillian makes a stunning return to life, Chase knows he has limited time to make her realize who and what she is. When he begins to unravel the happenings since her "death", he finds that time might be running out for her and he's not going to let her face her future alone. Setting a trap for the people who have done unbelievable things in the name of science requires Storm at it's best, but mostly the trust of a woman who holds his heart in her hands.

This one has it all: plenty of action, deception at it's finest, secrets of the worst kind and a touch of horror at it's core. The premise in this might not be the most original, but the creative flow along with characters you come to know and sympathize with puts this tale by Ms. Connolly into one to be kept and re-read. Plus this has some truly hot sex that makes you wish for some ice water, a fan and an encore of seconds. I truly hope this will become a series as it holds good possibilities.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

PRODUCT REVIEW: Willy or Won't He Love It? Willy Care Kit

2009-11-20T23:59:00.003Z

The Gentleman's Willy Care Kit

Oh he will! Now, this has been around for a while, but until recently I never had anyone to buy one for, which I needed as I don't personally have a willy of my own. Well, not one that is attached to me.

This is exactly what to get a man who has everything. With this you can fluff (brush), style (shears), spruce (silverware mirror), dress up (chunky metal bracelet with mini medallion) and it all comes in a smart leatherette case.

Admittedly, I thought this was more of a joke present, but I've been told it's very useful and although that was a bit of shock to me, I was secretly pleased this had more value than just entertainment.

Another thing is that the styling "shears" as they are called, are not so frightening as they sound - they're really only small scissors...but shears sounds rather dangerous.

Finally, the Gentleman's Willy Care Kit will have your willy, or your man's, in good shape and groomed to perfection in no time at all, and we all know you can't keep down a well looked after willy. Now, that's got to be worth the money!

--
Angelika Devlyn
http://angelikadevlyn.wordpress.com/
http://myspace.com/angelika_devlyn

PRODUCT REVIEW: Orgasmic Head Massager!

2009-11-20T20:00:00.009Z

The Genie Head Massager

I thought this sounded a little naff at first, to be honest. Who wants to stick this in their hair and get it all tangled when a finger will do? Curious, I bought one anyway...

Oh, how drastically wrong I was. How ashamed I am to think what I've been missing out on all this time!

Now, I wouldn't say this was a particularly brilliant product as a "firm" massager, it's a little on the feeble side for that and it doesn't vibrate (boo hoo!), but it certainly does the trick when it comes to the all over spine-tingling effect it had on me. Which, incidentally, is exactly what is supposed to happen since it's the tingling sensation that relaxes and re-energises as it improves circulation and lymphatic drainage in a natural and holistic way. Ideal for when you have a headache, but lovely all over -- especially the neck! I have to say that I also would love to find out what the vibrating head massagers are like now.

"Don't scratch your head, you'll get splinters" -- well not anymore I won't! In fact, I'll never look at another head massager in quite the same way again. If anything, it's a great stress reliever.

--
Angelika Devlyn
http://angelikadevlyn.wordpress.com/
http://myspace.com/angelika_devlyn

REVIEW: Susie's Choice by Barbara Elsborg from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-20T14:38:00.000Z

Title: Susie's Choice
Author: Barbara Elsborg
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Menage or More/ M/M
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419920844
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Repressed by the men of her family, Susie's decision to answer the ad was to gain a bit of independence.The last thing she expected was to find out there were two males who would keep her desire in hyper-drive. But sweet Susie is carrying secrets and she's afraid that if they come to light, it will destroy any chance at happiness with these fine fellows. Does she dare to trust them with the truth or flee and leave her heart behind?

Opening the front door to the last applicant, it's instantaneous love the fragile waif with the skinned knees engenders in Christian's heart. Yet in his timidity it's possible that she can get away without knowing how he feels. Whenever Susie is near he can't seem to get the courage to tell her exactly how he feels or that the deal includes the sometimes acerbic Joel. How can he take the chance on seeing things he'd rather not on her delicate face?

With secrets of his own weighing upon his soul, Joel has no intention of this frolic becoming permanent, but you know what they say about the best laid plans. Fighting not only himself, but Susie's family for the right to choose, he finds things getting more complicated by the minute. How can he leave not just one love, but two behind when he returns home?

What started out as a light-hearted romp soon turned into a more complicated tale with very realistic characters, exploring the ways in which three people learn to share the most important part of themselves - their hearts. Although in a few places it came across a bit too frolicsome, that never took away from the depth of emotion, level of uncertainty or essence of the story. This is a well written tale of what it takes to make three into a family of one.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Dyad Dreams by Ann Hinnenkamp from Cerridwen Press

2009-11-19T23:00:00.001Z

Title: Dyad Dreams
Author:Ann Hinnenkamp
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal Romance
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419922312
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Ever want your life to change and when it does wonder what the hell you were thinking before it did? So what if life as a voice artist was boring? Eleanor surely wasn't prepared for what it becomes when her sister disappears and the guy who says he wants to help is more than
just a little weird.

Having lived in a world surrounded by secrets, serving a master unlike any known to man (except in myths and legends), Jacob Hastings is not in the best of moods when he is told by said master that it is his job to not only help Eleanor find her sister, but to protect the "fair maid as well. What follows is a quest to rival those of yore.

Beings of intellect and power unlike any ever described, passions unleashed, terrors abounding and the most unusual premise I've read to date. I found it thoroughly enjoyable, the characters were so unique as to command total attention (though I must admit the sub-characters sort of stole the story at times,for me) and the love scenes were pure sensuality. Well written with some unexpected wit and humor this one was a thoroughly entertaining read.

ROSIE'S RIVETERS: Females in Literature | Who do I love to hate?

2009-11-19T18:28:00.000Z

I'm over at Aarti's blog, Booklust, today with my version of her "Rosie's Riveters" feature.

Rosie's Riveters is a weekly posting written by Booklust readers about riveting females in literature. Many readers have strong reactions to the women in the books they read- either very positive or very negative. These are the characters we find riveting, for good reasons or bad ones, and they form the population of Rosie's Riveters. Through this weekly post, we can discuss females we love to hate, or love to love. And maybe, just maybe - we can determine why we react so strongly to them.

Click the Booklust link above to find out which female I have picked, and why. This is a rather tongue-in-cheek post, and I had a lot of fun participating.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

BOOK PARTY CHAT DAY with PRIZES: With Authors of "SWING" Anthology RSVP HERE

2009-11-19T10:45:00.000Z

I'm pleased to announce that Saturday 12th December 2009 is an ALL DAY BOOK PARTY chat day with the authors of SWING! Adventures in swinging by Today's Top Erotica Writers.

Authors confirmed so far are:

Jolie du Pre
Jeremy Edwards

Sage Vivant
M. Millswann
TreSart L Sioux
Sage Vivant

Prizes confirmed so far:

eBook downloads
T-shirt
Mouse pad
Pen

For a chance to win one of these prizes please leave a comment here to say you will attend and on the day of the chat email the AR Yahoo group with a question to ask the authors. This gives you 5 extra entries into this competition.

The only other requirement is that you must be 18+ years of age to join in.

Any further updates will be added here.

Good luck and see you then, if not before! It's going to be a fun day, I can't wait!

Click here for the full AR Events and book party listings.

Sassy
:)

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

Gypsy Nights by Mandy M. Roth

2009-11-18T15:34:00.006Z

Title: Gypsy Nights
Author: Mandy M. Roth
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Website of Publisher: http://www.ellorascave.com
Genre: Erotica/Paranormal Fantasy
Publication date: SEP 2009
ISBN: 9781419922459
Length: 76 pages/Novella
Format: eBook
Reviewer: Clayton Clifford Bye
Alternative-Read.com

Buy now

Gypsy Nights is a short Novella featuring three types of paranormals: the Romani or Gypsies, who are human witches; Mullo’s, who are vampires inhabited by demons; and lycanthropes (werewolves). There are also various combinations of these creatures.

Sebastian Rolle is a powerful vampire who fights against his own kind in their war against the Romani. When he rescues a dying Gypsy after a slaughter of her kind, he’s shocked to discover a continued, specific hunt is being carried out for the woman. Sebastion then finds himself charged with delivering the witch’s child, ensuring its safety and fulfilling a prophecy. “You will be the one for her. It has been foreseen,” claims the witch. Sebastian does what he must, then leaves the newborn girl with her own people.

Little does Sebastion know that the Romani tribe will flee that very night. Nor does he understand that the Council is involved. A group of individuals both vampiric and magical in their powers, who oversee all paranormals, the Council has its own reasons for keeping Sebastion away from the babe. All he’s left with are the haunting words of the dead witch.

Fast forward. The girl, Gitana, is 29 years old, divorced, a witch in her own right and the owner of an herbal shop. And Sebastian has finally found her. Unbeknownst to them, their instant attraction to each other brings to a head events which began the night Gitana was born and have continued to this very day.

Read Gypsy Nights to discover what will happen next.

In Gypsy Nights Mandy M. Roth provides a quick, enjoyable and erotic read with a complete storyline. In fact, the piece is complex enough I found myself asking why the author didn’t create a full-length novel. You see, the prologue throws a lot of background at the reader, and there are many places the story could go but doesn’t. I finished the book wanting more, wanting to experience those additional developments. Was this author oversight? Was Roth just interested in her story as a fancy hanger for the heated sex scenes? I doubt it; the book didn’t read that way. So, rather than make any assumptions, I decided to go directly to the source...

Here’s how Roth answered my questions: “Prior to writing Gypsy Nights, I'd only ever done full length (100K) first person urban fantasy. I really wanted to try third person and I really wanted to try to give the reader a full story in novella format. I set the goal and then made it a reality. To me, it was about attempting to pack a punch with certain restrictions. It opened an entire new door of writing for me...”

I would have to say Roth met the challenge she set for herself. There was plenty of story for the size of Gypsy Nights, as well as a whole lot of heat. Perhaps the reason I wanted more is because I’m not used to receiving this kind of “punch” from such a petite package. Well done!

Copyright © Clayton Clifford Bye 2009

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

What's On Your Desk Wednesday? Check out this author's workspace!

2009-11-18T12:42:00.000Z

This week's "desk" has been sent in by Author William G. Bentrim. Author of two books for children, I Like to Whine and Daddy Goes On A Trip. Covers pictured below.

He has been interviewed by Natalie at The Book Inn, Blazing Minds, and had his books reviewed on Everything To Do With Books, Book Visions, Layers of Thought, and Merry Weather Book Blog, to name but a few.

Thanks so much, William, for sharing us a slice of your world!

Pick of the Literate
http://bookrevues.blogspot.com/

Money Saving Tech Tips and Philosophic Musings
http://money-saving-tech-tips.blogspot.com/

William G. Bentrim

http://www.bentrim.info

If you would like to take part and have your desk/workspace/TBR shelves etc featured here, you can just email Sassy dot Brit @ gmail dot com with a picture of your desk. Head your email DESK PICTURE.

If you have a blog you might also like to play along and participate in the following meme:
What's on Your Desk Wednesday?
Below are the details (copy & paste) of how to play;

What's on your desk Wednesday? is a weekly bookish meme hosted by Sassy Brit of Alternative-Read.com . Check her blog out each Wednesday for the post titled What's on your desk Wednesday?

You can do one of two things or both!

Grab a camera and take a photo of your desk! Or anywhere you stack your books/TBR pile. And no tidying! Add this photo to your blog.Tag at least 5 people! Come back here and leave a link back to your photo in comments.
List at least 5 BOOKISH things on your desk (I'm thinking your TBR pile or books you haven't shelved...) List at least 5 NON BOOK things. (I'm thinking some of some of the more unusual items on your desk/table?) Tag at least 5 people to do the same. Come back here and leave your link, so we can come and visit your blog. Or add your answers in the comments if you don't have a blog.

Feelfree to grab the above picture to place on your site - as a way ofshowing you are participating, and of course to spread the word! Have fun!

Thankyou everyone for taking the time to come here and comment. It's trulyappreciated. I aim to get back to everyone as soon as possible.

Sassy
:)

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook ~LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

Want to read a book as it is being written? Warts and all?

2009-11-17T16:58:00.000Z

This is an old book, but a good one. I picked this out of many of her fiction and non-fiction book list, because it's a first of a series and I particularly like this cover design, which differs to my copy. See more below.

The Read-As-She-Writes Online Novel: TalysMana

If I mention the name, Holly Lisle, some of you will no doubt already know who she is and the types of books she writes. If I mention that she is writing a book for all to see, as it literally falls out of her imagination -- warts and all -- typos, inconsistencies, and all sorts of mistakes you'd expect from an unedited book, it may pique your interest, whether you know this author or not. Although, personally I bet we don't see THAT many errors! It certainly sounds a lot of fun to me.

If you are interested you need to go to this page here, and sign up for her emails, which enables her to send you the story as it progresses -- as soon as it is written.

If you are late signing up, then no worries, you can still join and she will send you two emails per week until you have caught up with everyone else.

I think this is a great idea, for readers, authors, and aspiring writers alike. It is also beginning at just the right time, for those of you taking part in this November's NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) as she will eventually, like NaNoWriMo participants, need to go back through this and revise it to publishing standards. I imagine that is something everyone will enjoy because you get to see the final product, and just how she got there.

Can't be bad!

Incidentally, I've read the first scene and I must say it does sound like it could be a very good story. She's hooked me with a list of unanswered questions - 'What happened?', 'Who are they?', 'What are they doing in her house anyway?' And probably less commonly - 'Don't let the dog get hurt!'

Holly Lisle's Main Website -- Writing diary (Pocket Full of Words) -- TalysMana (The Read-As-She-Writes Novel)

About the book: Diplomacy of Wolves

Kait Galweigh, a young diplomat cursed with a dark secret, must choose to save a world that shuns her and would destroy her if that secret were revealed. The epic search for the nature of good and evil, the definition of humanity, and the meaning of free will, duty, honor . . . and love.

The Author Says:

This is the first in the SECRET TEXTS trilogy, and the book my agent beat me over the head about until I made it big. If you want to see an example of how I build worlds, this has my best complete, complex universe, with greater scope and scale, and characters much more complex than any I've written before.

If you do check her out, I would love to hear what you think! Have you heard of this author before today? Do you enjoy her work? Is her website helpful for authors / aspiring writers?

Sassy
:)

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~ We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

MUSING MONDAYS: I don't beat about the bush!

2009-11-16T20:44:00.000Z

Musing Mondays

Hosted by Gautami! Here is this week's question:

Q: With theholiday season now upon us, have you left any hint – subtle orotherwise – for books family and friends might buy you for Christmas?Do you like to receive books, or do you prefer certificates so you canchoose your own?

A: Everyone in my family would rather know what I want book wise, as opposed to guess. So I like to make their lives easier by telling them exactly which titles I need. Like most book bloggers here, there is always plenty of choice.

Wish lists are great, but I have learnt they can cause different people to buy the same book unless I suggest different books from that list for each person. The same thing happens for other members in my family that request books for Christmas. I tend to ask them (or their spouses), for specific book titles because I am much happier getting books they desire. Whether they like them, well, that's another matter!

What's your answer to this weeks Monday Musing?
Sassy
:)

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Feather Down by Lorie O'Clare from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-15T05:50:00.003Z

Title: Feather Down, Raptors Revealed, Book One
Author: Lorie O'Clare
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419923159
Length: Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Lana Halk has been very protected by her nest from the realities of life, but that hasn't stopped her from deciding that if, it will be as an equal partner, not just the timid female waiting her master at home. When she falls for Dover, it's because he shows her just what true lovemaking is, but when he tells her it may be her nest that is the cause of the trouble in town, she torn between family and her heart.

Asked by one clan to check into a problem in Banff and if possible to fix it, Dover Down does what he does best- head into a situation to see what has to be done to resolve it. What he doesn't count on is being knocked on his keister by the luscious Lana Halk while he's trying to find out why the species are about to tear each other to shreds; especially since her nest seems to be the instigators of the troubles in Banff.

I have to admit that for me poor Dover came across as too good to be true (though he's the guy we all wish we had), but I truly enjoyed the thought there might be one of him out there-somewhere. I did enjoy Lana's "growing up" during this story and though sometimes life is hard it's nice to know there is always family. The story is well written, full of escapades, action and sex to keep me entertained to the end.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Soulless by Robiin Leigh Miller from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-14T05:42:00.003Z

Title: Soulless
Author: Robin Leigh Miller
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419923111
Length: Super Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Who else besides the slayers knew that human thoughts can create nasty, soulless beings known as Tulpas? Quinn Hurst thought she was the only slayer in the area until she literally ran into another slayer who sets her body into hyper-drive. Quinn's not sure about working with anyone else- she's kind of into being the only one on the job.

Garen is determined not to let anything or anyone come between Quinn and himself. It seems it's happened in the past, but he's not about to stand by and let some freaky- deeky demon lay claim to the woman who has already laid claim to his heart; both in the past and in the present.

The premise in this was just a wee bit strange, but with my perverted sense of weird that was actually rather cool. I loved Quinn's strength and determination, but the biggest surprise was her compassion. On the other hand, Garen was an intriguing mix of all the traits we think we want in a man, but the reality might be more than we truly want. The story has some interesting turns, plenty of hot sex, an intriguing premise that could be frightening in its intensity and characters that are spirited and feisty.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

PAT CHAT: New Challenge: James Patterson Reading Challenge 2009

2009-11-13T22:43:00.001Z

New Challenge: James Patterson Reading Challenge

Hosted by: Socrates' Book Reviews

Time: August 15, 2009 - August 15, 2010 - I'm a bit late in joining, but I am sure I can pack in a few of his books, they are pretty quick reads.

Somehow his books just seem to collect in my house, and although they are not the first books I am drawn to, when I do pick one up I usually like them. I wouldn't say he is a literary genius, and the short length of his chapters (at least in the few books I have read) at times feels odd, as if incomplete. Perhaps he's cheating me out of something that I am yet to learn? Yet there are other days I'm grateful for this, especially when I have lots of books on the go at once. The fact that I can pick up a James Patterson book, read a quick chapter and move on, suits me then.

They are also handy for what I call gaps of "wasted time" in which JP can be a great filler; traffic jams, waiting rooms, and many other times where you just do not want to get caught up in a lengthily, complex plot - only to be interrupted before the end of the chapter.

He has also been heavily criticised. It was once reported that Stephen King dismissed Patterson's bibliography as being made up of "dopeythrillers," and in one interview called him a "terrible writer."

Like him or hate him, as a top selling author with a solid fan base, you've got to admire him - he's definitely doing something right!

Who would you say our English equivalent is?

Mo Hayder?
Simon Kernick?

Is there anyone quite like Patterson?

My List: (Will be magically added here when I start reading some!)

Sassy
:)

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

A Review of Cheating Death by Annie Alvarez

2009-11-13T14:47:00.009Z

Title: Cheating Death
Author: Annie Alvarez
Publisher: Extasy Books
ISBN: 978-1-55487-302-9
Length: 207 Pages
Format: eBook
Genre: Vampire/Lesbian/Lesbian Ménage/erotic

buy now

Izzy is half-witch, but when a member of her vampire lover’s family attacks her while in a feeding frenzy, Izzy’s life is forever changed. In order to save her from certain death, Izzy’s lover, Tamara, turns her into a vampire... Or something like it. Seems being half-witch has allowed Izzy to Cheat Death. Yes, she must feed like a vampire, but she still lives and breathes and walks beneath the midday sun.

And so begins Cheating Death, author Annie Alvarez’s 2nd of three books featuring Izzy, the elite vampire family surnamed Hightower, and lots and lots of graphic sex. The story is complicated and seems to be largely an emotional study of the main character, Izzy, as she becomes less and less human.

I like Alverez’s casual story telling style. It’s very readable and helps to connect the reader to her work. Her descriptive skills and pacing also show a solid skill level. But my nice, warm feelings end right there.

I am of the opinion Alverez is the victim of a publishing house withdubious editorial integrity. How else can this book be explained?

One: Cheating Death is written in first person past tense, but the author regularly inserts present tense thoughts and statements into her work. Example: “I knew if Alea had been asking about me, it wasn’t in a nice way, but Michael has a tendency to downplay, everything. I can’t believe Alea still hasn’t let it go. Shit if she found us tonight, she would take it out on Michael and that’s not what I wanted.” After awhile these transgressions become cold pails of water thrown over top of the discriminating reader, harshly jolting he or she out of the story.

Two: Cheating Death felt fuzzy around the edges. The scenes and overall storyline just didn’t come together for me. Specifically, the series of events (mostly involving outside-of-the-box sex) in Cheating Death constantly show the main characters to be amoral and emotionally twisted. The reader asks why? Then, as Izzy becomes physically more and more like the “people” around her, we see the aforementioned characteristics showing up in her behaviour. In fact, as the book ends Izzy has become, in virtually every sense, one of the dreaded Hightowers. Why were we, the reader put through all this? Is it just to create a hook for selling the next tome in the series? Is Cheating Death merely a platform for written pornography? Or is the problem what I’ve already suggested: faulty editing?

I’m an author. It makes me cringe when I have to write a harsh review. Extasy Books has this to say on their submissions page: “We expect all submissions to be professionally prepared and as free of mechanical errors in punctuation, spelling and grammar as possible. Unless prior approval has been obtained, we will also not accept any submission that is clearly an unrevised first draft. Editors are here to help you polish your work, not fix it for you--that's your job.” I guess they’re true to their word, because they sure didn’t help this author overcome what I consider to be significant problems involving the fundamentals of good writing. You can believe me when I tell you I won’t be reading anything else from this publishing company.

Copyright © Clayton Clifford Bye 2009

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

What I Saw and How I Lied: Review

2009-11-13T09:54:00.000Z

What I Saw and How I Lied
Publisher: Scholastic
Genre: Young Adult/ Historical Fiction
ISBN: 978-1407114958
Length: 272 pages
Format: Paperback with cool dust jacket and extra cover!
Reviewer: Sassy Brit
Alternative-Read.com

The Second World War has just ended, and fifteen-year-old Evie'sstepfather is finally back home. Something has changed and he certainlydoesn't seem like his old self, but that could be because of theterrible things he's experienced during the war. Soon it becomesapparent something strange is going on when Evie's interferinggrandmother keeps taking calls from someone asking for her stepfather,and when the three of them suddenly take off to Palm Beach in Floridafor what seems like an adventure to get away from it all, a handsomestranger turns up.

Peter Coleridge is a gorgeous ex-GI and Evie soon finds herselffalling for him. But it's not long before more secrets emerge and poorEvie's world gets much darker as three people hire a boat during ahurricane, and only two come back, leading Evie into a court of law andabout to make the biggest decision of her life.

For what is essentially a young adult coming-of-age romance, thecombination of the 1940's themed setting, the usage of appropriatewords for that period, and the realistic and quite moving suspensefulplot shrouded by tragedy, certainly surprised me! What happened toEvie, and her struggles to be seen as a young adult and not the childeveryone has grown used to, is to me something that teen girls wouldsurely relate to, but it's only part of what makes this book stand out.Other themes include anti-Semitism during post-war America and theterrible treatment of the Jews. These were not conveyed as lectures, oras chunks where the author shows off her research knowledge, but weresubtly woven into the story as things that shocked young Evie when shefirst understood what was going on in the true style of her character.A great way to educate teenage readers without boring them, and theperfect excuse to pack more into the plot.

I found Blundell's style of writing descriptive and engaging. Thefun and naivety of Evie's voice at the beginning slowly disappears, andas the unfortunate events unfold she conveys the sense of panic andconfusion that a young girl in her position would feel; a marvellousway to set the tone for the book's intriguing ending.

Incidentally, Judy Blundell is not new to the publishing world. Foryounger readers she has written under the psuedonym Jude Watson Star Wars Episode I Journal Queen Amidala,which if you are a Star Wars fan, like I am, you'll already know this.Other books under her belt include the New York Times bestsellingseries, 39 Clues 6: In Too Deep (The 39 Clues), written for teenagers. I'm no teenager, but I'd still love to review this!

Finally, the book cover of "What I Saw and How I Lied" is amazing.It has dust jacket, which when removed reveals two colour covers. Evenif I had disliked this book, I would have insisted on at least givingthree stars and a pint of beer to the book designer.
Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~ FaceBook~ LibraryThing~ AmazonUK~ GoodReads~ Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Stay With Me by Ruby Duvall from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-13T05:41:00.003Z

Title: Stay With Me
Author: Ruby Duvall
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419923241
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

It would be bad having a wreck in the present, bit imagine having a wreck in the present and waking up over six hundred years in the past with every one believing you're a fairy no less. That's Emma's dilemma and she has a feeling the locket has something to do with it. Now how does she convince her reluctant host that she's a normal person?

The sudden appearance of the young woman in the strange outfit has not convinced Iain that she's a fairy, but he does wonder how she has invaded his dreams. Not only does she make his body burn, she makes him yearn for things best left alone. As the trust between them slowly begins to grow he wonders how he can make her want to stay.

Thinking at first this was going to be just another time travel story, there were a few twists to make it be just different enough to be interesting. I enjoyed the fiestiness of Emma and the quiet strength of Iain, but I have to admit that for me old Aili sometimes stole scenes from both. The sex is hot, the tension high and the action plentiful. The ending however makes for a quaintly sentimental finish to an enjoyable read.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Alpha Turned by K.B. Alan from Ellora's Cave

2009-11-12T06:10:00.001Z

Title: Alpha Turned
Author: K.B. Alan
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419922831
Length: Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Having survived the brutal rape four years before that turned her into a werewolf, Hillary has accomplished a lot in her life. She's got her own business- although it's not one usually associated with a woman- made friends grown stronger and learned to protect not only herself, but those she cares about. Now there's another were telling her that she can be part of a clan, but why would she want to when she's perfectly happy the way she is?

Zach is an alpha and knows the second he draws Hillary's scent into his nose that she is his forever mate. He also knows that something in her past keeps her from trusting any werewolf and males in particular. So his mission is to prove to her that besides the obvious perks to being an alpha, he will never hurt her and she has total control of his soul and his heart.

Although there is a vivid description of the rape it is crucial to the story and it is a story of victorious instead of victim. I love the strength of the women, the understanding and gentleness of the men and the humor that is woven with a light hand throughout. It is however the keen insight into the mind of the "victim" that drew me forward through the story. This is written with a deft hand, lovely wit and some very hot sex. It is a keeper.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com

REVIEW: Of Bees and Mist | Erick Setiawan

2009-11-11T17:38:00.000Z

Of Bees and Mist by Erick Setiawan
Publisher: Headline Review
ISBN: 978-0755348558
Length: 702 pages
Format: Paperback
Reviewer: Sassy Brit
Alternative-Read.com

From birth Meridia seemed different. She sees ghosts in the mirrors ofher magical and mysterious home, and her parents treat her oddly forreasons unknown to her. Gabriel her father resents her, never allowingthe girl to speak unless spoken to, while her mother, Ravenna, forgets she exists. Even her nurse acts weird and won't let her outof the house much, for fear of infections and a mist that never leaves their front door. Oh, how she longs to escape her miserable life.

When Daniel enters her life it's a magical moment of true love, andthey soon marry, but with marriage comes another odd family, and poorMeridia seems to leap from one strange household to another; swarms ofbees appear at will, along with that colour changing mist again, butworse of all her mother-in-law, Eva, appears to only be happy when making Meridia and Daniel's life hell. Both sets of parents are asbad as each other, and will use whatever method they can to get whatthey want, regardless of the mental torture and troubles they putMeridia and Daniel through. How many secrets can these two familieshold? Can Meridia fathom out what is going on, and stay one step ahead,before her own marriage is destroyed? And what will become of her ownchild who doesn't seem to stand a chance?

If anyone believes themselves to have Mother-In-Law problems andthey read this book, I guarantee they will feel so much better abouttheir lives. Both Meridia's parents and her In-Laws wore me out withtheir conniving, scheming ways that almost tear the young couple apart,but that's what made me read faster in order to find out how the storyended. This is a story of love overcoming everything, while at the sametime it's also heart breaking. I found it to be something of a crossbetween a modern fantasy and a Grimm fairytale, which is down to theauthor's wonderfully bizarre imagination and his unusual upbringing; Born in Jakarta, Indonesia, to Chinese parents. OfBees and Mist is an atmospheric epic of a story. I loved the wayMeridia and her husband learn to overcome the two forces that try tobreak them up and the clever techniques that the young girl is forcedto put into place to protect her family from the atrocities thrown atthem from both sides. This engaging plot, along with Setiawan'scaptivating descriptions and ability to make the story flow in such amystical and strange world, makes this tale one to recommend.

Alternative-Read.com: The "Inside Story" by Sassy Brit and her Gang!
~http://www.twibes.com/group/READERSandREVIEWERS~Chat and Promo Group~WHAT'S ON YOUR DESK WEDNESDAY? Book Blog Meme!~We are actively seeking staff!~FaceBook~LibraryThing~AmazonUK~GoodReads~
Technorati Categories:Book Review, FREE Books, Competition, Blog,Media, Press Release, Author,Podcast, Interview,Book News, Reviews,Reviewers, WitchGiggles, Aris, Lucille Perkins Robinson, Devlin O'Neill, Clayton Bye,Angelika Devlyn, Michael,Ella Blackhart, Bo Perkins,Giveaway,Yahoo Group, Guest Blog, Publisher, Newsletter, Stumbleupon, MySpace, Promo, alternative-read.com