Review: Tempt the Devil

Review: Tempt The Devil by Anna Campbell

Any man in London would worship her. Yet Olivia is, quite frankly, bored of them all. Despite her many dalliances, she's never felt true passion, never longed for any lover's touch . . . until Julian, London's most notoriously wanton rake, decided to make her his mistress.

From the moment he first saw her, Julian knew he must possess her. And when he discovers her greatest secret, a scandal that could ruin her reputation and end her career, he knows just the way to use this damaging information to his most delightful advantage. He offers Olivia a deal with the devil: he'll keep her secret . . . if she allows him the chance to show her true ecstasy.

But Olivia must be careful, for Julian has a secret of his own: he will not rest until she is completely, shamelessly his.

It's always difficult to review a novel that while entertaining, fell flat and to make matters more frustrating, I can't exactly pinpoint the reason why. The facts are that I enjoyed Anna Campbell's 'Tempt the Devil'. I liked her characters and sympathized with their plight. The writing was lovely and embodied a rich and flowing plot filled to the brim with emotional depth. But despite all the good qualities, my love and connection to the novel and it's characters was dim at best with the occasional flare of interest.

'Tempt the Devil' is very character focused novel with ninety-eight percent of the scenes being dedicated exclusively to the hero and heroine together. There are no outside suspense plots to distract you and no evil villains except the bitter thoughts and horrid pasts of the two main characters. Both the notorious womanizer Julian Southwood, Earl of Erith, and the flaming jewel of a courtesan, Olivia Raines, contain dead wastelands for souls and fortified walls about their hearts that are brutal in their resistance. They're jaded and cynical creatures that live only in the now for the past is too painful for either to revisit yet it's the past that's irrevocably shaped them into who they are in their present.

Erith is an arrogant, supremely dominant and cold hearted man when he sets his sights on the lovely Olivia Raines and vows to possess her. It's this very coldness that Olivia sees and is attracted to for it's obvious that the earl is lacking a soul which compliments her soulless existence all too well. Yet it becomes shockingly clear that she's about to receive more than she bargained for with the Earl of Erith.

For fifteen years, Olivia Raines has been London's most alluring and coveted courtesan. Every lover that she's taken has become embarrassingly enamored by her and when Erith returns from Vienna, he knows instantly that she's what he wants during his brief stay in London for his daughter's wedding. Little does he know that Olivia's cool gaze and self-conscience movements are armor for her wounded soul. While she may have survived the atrocities of her past that led her to the present, she's never lived. The dreams of a young and privileged girl were crushed to oblivion so long ago and so horribly that all she has left - all she clings to - is her courtesan act. But she's tired of the old song and dance. Tired of the male sex which she whole-heartily despises. The Earl of Erith will be her last lover. Her reign as London's most sought after courtesan has come to an end.

While Olivia hides beneath her courtesan mask, Erith's arrogance shields a broken heart. He's a man that's loved passionately and lost. While he married young it was to the love of his life. Joanna was everything to him. But four blissful years and two gorgeous children did nothing to protect Joanna from sudden death leaving Erith's life in ruins. Unable to stand even the sight of his own children, Erith fled England after installing his son and daughter with his sister. For over a decade he stayed away only now returning for his daughter's wedding and more importantly to right the horrible wrong he did when he abandoned his family.

When Erith and Olivia come together it's like the perfect storm. They each battle mercilessly for dominance and control but the more they fight, the more they each crack through the other's defenses. Olivia's unwanted revealing of her body's non response to Erith drives him mad with challenge. He strips free her lies with unrelenting persistence thus revealing the troubled soul beneath. His rampant jealousy has him following her when she leaves and thus uncovering another faucet of her life, one that she'll do anything to protect. And while all these unveiling's could mean Olivia's downfall, Erith would never tell a soul about his discoveries for his own walls are crumbling.

When Olivia witnesses the vast depth of Erith's capability to love, she knows that she's judged him terribly wrong. While she initially thought him cold and heartless, those traits were merely an illusion and she soon finds herself coveting his love for herself. But it's a rule that's fatal to ones heart if broken: A courtesan must never fall in love.

Erith knows that Olivia returns the passionate love that he has for her and he has every intention of keeping her forever. He never in all his life thought he could love someone again but Olivia has shined brilliant light on all corners of his starving soul. During his determination to make Olivia feel pleasure, to live her life with truth, she inadvertently did the same for him. Where once they were both barren, they're now swept away on a ship of overwhelming but wonderful emotions.

But of course nothing can ever be easy. At the very peak of their happiness, a crushing blow brings them both crashing back to shore. Erith, thinking irrationally, accuses Olivia of a wrong she didn't commit. Hateful words are thrown and for the first time in weeks Olivia has felt like Erith's whore, not his beloved. The truth of their situation comes rearing to the forefront and Olivia's wary heart seizes the opportunity to turn away from her dream, from happiness for that dream of happiness can never be in reality.

Erith, desperate to make amends and reclaim the woman that has brought him to his knees, turns London upside down searching for Olivia. The fact that the gossip mills are churning over his very obvious desperation for his mistress does little to stop him from reaching his goal. Love has made him a fool but it's the very least of his worries. When Erith does find Olivia, she's come to a decision: Marry her or say good-bye forever.

As mentioned above, I did enjoy Anna Campbell's 'Tempt the Devil'. It was a good read but not a great read. I felt the situations were a bit contrived to move the story along and that those contrivances caused Erith to step out of character. While he exhibited anger, raging passion and desperate need throughout the novel, I never thought he would stoop to scathing remarks that are thrown towards the woman he claims to love. Conversely, I thought that Olivia's response was spot on and I fumed with her over Erith's accusations. Her heart had been dead for so long that any new life would be tenuous at best and her reactions were in line with her character. And while I rooted for her in this case, I grew contempt for her after her issued ultimatum.

Campbell makes it very clear that for a member of the peerage to marry his courtesan is to bring upon social suicide for not only him but for his family as well. While she has had previous characters marry with similar situations, none had committed the already selfish atrocities that Erith had to his own children. To marry a courtesan would only shine more light on his selfishness. For Olivia to expect him to miraculously make her dream a possibility was cruel and unjust and Erith points out as much. But she leaves him no choice. He must determine what's more important, her or the children he wronged and that didn't sit well with me.

I will say though that Campbell has a way of bringing rich vitality to her characters making them practically leap off the page. I think my discontent stemmed more from her characters actions rather than their hearts. Their hearts, I loved.

B-

Captive of Sin by Anna Campbell

Releases October 27, 2009

He pledged his honor to keep her safe...

Returning home to Cornwall after unspeakable tragedy, Sir Gideon Trevithick comes upon a defiant beauty in danger, and vows to protect her whatever the cost. He's dismayed to discover that she's none other than Lady Charis Weston, England's wealthiest heiress-and that the only way to save her from the violent stepbrothers determined to steal her fortune is to wed her himself! Now Gideon must hide the dark secrets of his life from the bride he desires more with every heartbeat.

She promised to show him how to love - and desire - again...

Charis has heard all about Gideon, the dangerously handsome hero with the mysterious past. She's grateful for his help, but utterly unwilling to endure a marriage of convenience-especially to a man whose touch leaves her breathless. Desperate to drive him mad with passion, she would do anything to make Gideon lose control-and fall captive to irresistible, undeniable sin

Read an Excerpt HERE!

Review: Chains

Review: Chains by Shiloh Walker

They weren't friends. They weren't enemies. They only thing the three girls had in common was the high school they went to in Madison, Ohio - until one tragic night. Now, fifteen years later, they're returning home, where passion - and danger - await...

Renee Lincoln was the prom queen with the perfect boyfriend and the perfect life. After that horrible night, she rebelled the only way she knew how: by submitting to her wildest fantasies...

Tall, blonde, and athletic, Lacey Talbot was a golden girl with a bright future. She's found success as a photographer, but no man has ever been able to satisfy her. No man but the bad boy she left behind...

Sherra Salinger has always looked like a princess out of some fairy tale. The books she writes, though, stem from the nightmare of that one night. And she shrinks from any man's attention - especially the one stalking her...

They're coming back to Madison - and it won't be a happy reunion. There are three men, all dangerous in different ways. And when the women surrender their bodies to the heat, when they succumb to desire, they'll find the safety they desperately need...

Book One
Renee
Chains of Rebellion

For Renee Lincoln, a terrible and fateful night fifteen years ago shaped her irrevocably into the woman she is today. It was for the better really. As a teenager and heiress, every move she made was dictated by her mother. Wear this. Say that. Date him. Him being JD Whitcomb, the town pretty boy. But it wasn't JD's looks that Renee's mother cared about, it was his wealth and his family's social standing in Madison, Ohio. Always berating Renee for her uselessness, the least she could do is marry well. The fact that Renee didn't like JD was inconsequential. But after being slapped - hard - by the man her mother wished her to marry, Renee resolved to take control of her life. She would have devised a way to leave JD, but the decision was more than forced after that night. After he nearly raped her friend.

Now, fifteen years has passed and Renee's on her way back to Madison to see to the details of her dead mother's estate and participate in her high school reunion. Wanting to delay at every turn, Renee stops for the night at a hotel. Normally she wouldn't engage in nearly two hours of flirtation with the handsome man at the bar but there is just something about him that Renee can't get enough of. When he picks up on her deliberate submissive hints as being an educated member of the BDSM community, his white hot dominance comes raging to the forefront. Knowing it's wrong to await the hot stranger in his hotel room, completely naked except for her boots, Renee just can't bring herself to refuse the command.

The BDSM community was something Renee got into with her first love in college. It represented one more thing that she could do within her control and besides, it was bound to piss off mommy. When her boyfriend started getting too controlling in his demands that she be his slave in the bedroom as well as out, Renee dropped the lifestyle and her boyfriend. But there's just something about the hotel stranger that prods her to defy him in the hopes of incurring his sensual punishment.

After a night filled with the best sex of her life, Renee slips out of the mysterious stranger's room and continues on to Madison. No sooner does she arrive at her mother's sprawling estate when danger strikes. It's the worst B movie scenario. While Renee is oblivious in the shower, her car, front porch and entry way are destroyed. And who should walk in with the cops? Renee's hot one night stand. Not only had Renee gone to high school with Deacon Cross, but he was also a witness to that terrible night fifteen years ago. Then he wouldn't have given her a second glance but now his hungry stare not only promises retribution for her earlier desertion, but also a blatant intent to claim her forever.

But when the murderous intent of the unknown attacker nearly succeeds in killing Renee, it may be that forever isn't possible unless Renee surrenders completely to Deacon and together they can find her assailant.

This novella started off with a bang that pilfered out soon after. While I liked Deacon enough, Renee was one of those Too Stupid To Live heroines causing you to roll your eyes and laugh cynically when the bad guy successfully manages to injure her. Really, what was she expecting?

The BDSM was pretty light but there was an excess of spanking that left much to be desired. A general slap here and there is alright but an overabundant succession of spanking that brings the heroine to the brink of orgasm? Even for me, a lover of extreme BDSM novels, found the situation to be a bit too far fetched.

Hussy Approved Reading Material!

C-

Book Two
Lacey
Chains of Longing

For Lacey Talbot, that night fifteen years ago had finally turned into a bad dream over time, but the night of white hot sex with the town bad boy five years ago was something she wished desperately was a dream. Unfortunately the following morning's humiliating results continue to haunt her.

For her entire life, Lacey has been trying her best to accomplish everything she could in the shortest amount of time. She'd finally made a career in photography because she loved it and was once good at it. Now her work encapsulates the emptiness that she feels. Dumped by her boyfriend and told that she had a cold heart, Lacey is back in Madison, Ohio for her high school reunion. While she's been back numerous times to see her parents, Lacey has tried her best to avoid the one person guaranteed to make her feel confused: Seth Salinger and the only man to ever make her heart feel full. But he'd walked out the door with the morning light five years ago proving that Lacey's internal emptiness was something he could sense and was repelled.

Seth knows that he's the last thing in the world that Lacey wants to deal with after watching her best friend, Renee, nearly get run down by a car. Although he's been the sheriff of Madison for several years, the stigma of his trailer trash upbringing was never far behind and Lacey Talbot had always been too good for him. Since he was six years old, Seth had been in love Lacey. Five years ago, when he finally got to put his hands on her silky body, he wanted to make it last forever. But her groaned mumble of regret had him running for the door to save what little pride he had left.

Since Lacey had ruined her car in a successful attempt to save Renee's life, Seth offers her a ride to her parent's house but when they arrive they find it in ruins. Having the eerie sense that Lacey's house, Renee's vandalized home and near death are somehow connected, Seth convinces Lacey to stay with him until they can get the issue resolved. Knowing that his hasty yet determined decision to take Lacey home is beyond stupid, he can't seem to control himself where she's concerned. Stupidly, he's still in love with a woman that will never have him.

Lacey grudgingly accepts Seth's offer because at the moment she really has no where else to go and staying at her destroyed house is definitely not an option. When the heat between her and Seth flames bright once again, Lacey can't help but dive into the sensual onslaught that his body promises. But when he wrenches away from her hold, Lacey worries that he's once again repelled by her internal emptiness. Embarrassed by her half naked state, Lacey hastily tries to flee but Seth cuts her off with a verbal attack. When the truth of the emotions from five years ago come spilling out, Seth and Lacey are both surprised but that quickly fades as pent up lust has them crashing together with frantic passion.

When Lacey awakes the next morning, she feels that the emptiness that has haunted her for years is no longer there.

His eyes glittered. There was a fierceness in his shadowed face, combined with a painful vulnerability that wrapped around her heart and squeezed. Something...something important was happening - she could feel it, shifting around inside her, realigning - pieces of herself falling into place and making her whole.
For once.
She felt whole.

Chains © Shiloh Walker

Despite the fact that Lacey and Seth's love has been realized, danger still lurks. When a surprise attack is made on Lacey and she's nearly strangled to death, the suspicion that the incidents between her and Renee are connected are looking more and more like fact. Somebody is hunting for pay back. With Seth's stubborn twin sister still intent on returning home to Madison for the reunion, Seth can't help but worry that the deadly stalker will come after her too. For it was Seth's sister that was nearly raped fifteen years ago and she was also the one that killed one of her attackers.

I enjoyed Lacey's story a lot more than Renee's. For one, Lacey didn't have any Too Stupid To Live moments. Also, Lacey embodied more tangible emotions and her internal struggle was interesting. I really loved how she didn't let Seth doubt himself after she discovers his real reason for leaving five years ago. They were both hurt by that morning and they were also both determined to not let the same mistakes happen again.

Hussy Approved Reading Material!

B

Book Three
Sherra
Chains of Memory

After nearly being raped and killing one of her would be attackers, the nightmare of it all has haunted Sherra Salinger for fifteen long years. Most of the residents of Madison, Ohio would say the she deserved it due to her trailer trash upbringing but Sherra is back in town and she's not the poor trouble maker she once was. That night may have been and still is a nightmare but it also served to ignite her imagination that's lead her straight to the top of the bestseller lists. Fame is always the best revenge.

Yet Sherra's fame has also come with a price. Someone is stalking her and has been for five years. What first started off as a couple of letters a month with magazine letters spelling Waiting for you, has now turned into daily emails showcasing not only the same words, but gruesome photoshopped pictures of her face on another body in snuff-pornography film poses. Although the FBI has been working the case for months, no leads on the stalker's origins have been discovered. Sherra is kicking off her new book tour in Madison, Ohio during the same time as her high school reunion and she's not going to let some wacko stalker keep her from living her life even if that life only consists of writing, drinking coffee, and escaping her house to go on the occasional shopping spree. Oh, and let's not mention her non-existent love life and fifteen year long drought. But her friend and editor is not cooperating. If Sherra still wants to go on her book tour then she's taking along a body guard.

Dalton Green has read the complex and thrilling horror novels that Sherra Salinger writes and he walks onto the job expecting to protect Wednesday Adams but he's shocked to find Snow White instead. The gorgeous and sinfully curved pale creature before him screams sex but her obvious fear is a cruel dousing on his burgeoning flame of desire. Sherra's fearful reactions to his presence sends him off to investigate. As an ex-cop, Dalton still stays connected with some of his friends on the force but the cop life is over for him. To tell the truth, he wouldn't have even taken this babysitting job if it wasn't for his need of cash. But when the background check and subsequent stalker emails suggests that Sherra is in a lot of danger - where Dalton once thought he'd be bored he's now finding himself on red alert.

Although it's been fifteen years since a man has provoked any emotion other then fear, Dalton is awakening feelings within Sherra that she's never before experienced. His pale green eyes filled with sexual hunger miss nothing and it's all Sherra can do to remain aloof in his presence. Every time Sherra has tried to become close to a man in the past it's ended in disaster. Something as simple as a kiss would set of the nightmare images of that long ago night leaving her shaking with terror. Needless to say, Sherra gave up on the opposite sex a long time ago. But it's alarmingly different with Dalton. All Sherra can think about is touching him and having him touch her and the past doesn't ever make an appearance.

It doesn't take long for Dalton to pick up on the sexual hunger that radiates off Sherra's body but the thought of seeing terror in her eyes if he made a move to touch her leaves him cold. But soon, the hungry looks can no longer be denied and the two come together in fierce passion. Unfortunately, their sexual bliss doesn't last long before Sherra's stalker makes his deadly strike and where he made mistakes with Renee and Lacey, his abduction of Sherra is smooth as silk.

I really enjoyed Dalton and Sherra's story. Although Dalton is a giant with soul piercing eyes, he provides Sherra nothing but the gentlest of protection. He had the potential to overwhelm her tattered soul but he's observant enough to see and understand Sherra's scars. He never allowed her to curl up and hide deep within herself. Instead he drew out her spirit and gave her much needed strength.

Sherra was a fascinating character. I think everyone endures trauma in different ways but she was able to profit astoundingly off her own inner fears. Also, it really took only one man to unleash her heart and when she lets go, Sherra doesn't hold anything back. After the bloody past she survived, I think for her to fall so fearlessly is a testament to her incredible strength.

Hussy Approved Reading Material!

B

Review: Ghostland

Ghostland by Jory Strong

In a post-Apocalyptic world where supernaturals have emerged from hiding, wealthy humans delight in decadence while the religious gain power through temptation. For the masses, fear reigns from birth to death, and the afterlife holds beings that only the bravest can summon—or dare to desire…

Taken from her home and family, shamaness Aisling McConaughey has no choice except to enter the “ghostlands” in order to learn the fate of a wealthy man’s mistress. But there is always a price to pay for the use of her power. To save the woman’s life she must summon the Djinn prince Zurael en Caym—and yield to his savage, sensual rage.

Zurael fears nothing except being called and bound to a human’s will. He intends to kill Aisling after she’s served as bait to find an enemy in possession of an ancient tablet. But the more he tastes of her innocent spirit, the more he’ll use his fiery touch and seductive whispers to keep her hungry for his mercy—even as they weave an erotic spell that he cannot escape…

Powerful forces threaten both their worlds, leaving Aisling and Zurael with an unbearable choice. Follow their hearts…or stay true to their honor and risk losing an eternity of pleasure.

After The Last War - ended by famine and plague - diminished the human population to such devastating levels, the supernatural were allowed to step free of the shadows. Now, decades later, the land is carved into territories. The United States of America still exists but not with the same strength of solidarity that can now only be found in history books. The world is mortally dangerous after dark and life is conducted only in the safe hours of daylight. And while the wealthy live a life of privilege, the poor scrape by on the bare side of survival. It is in this post-Apocalyptic world that Aisling McConaughey, a magically gifted human, lives with her non-blood brothers and sisters.

Left on a doorstep as a newborn during the dangerous hour of twilight, Aisling was taken in by the only mother she would ever know: Geneva. In the anti-magic rural territory of Stockton, the supernatural of any kind are shunned but Geneva guards her adopted magic and non-magic children the only way she knows how: hiding them. When guardsmen and a priest arrive at their farm looking specifically for Aisling, she knows that death could rain down upon her family if she doesn't comply. Little does she know that fate has stepped in to claim its due.

Travel is a privilege for the guardsmen and for the wealthy. For others, it's expensive and worse, extremely dangerous. In light of her adventure, Aisling's fear soon gives way to wonder as she leaves the only place she's ever known for Oakland. Her only companion on her journey: Aziel, her pet ferret and confidant. Some, like witches, mistakenly think that he's her familiar - an enslaved spirit, but that's not the case. Aziel is there at his own wish - he always has. Whether he's in the form of a snake, cat, or ferret, he always returns to her and sometimes he even travels with her into the spirit lands.

Aisling is a shamaness, a human who can travel the spirit winds of what most people refer to as the ghostlands. While in her astral self and guarded by fetishes, Aisling can call upon the souls of the dead but at a price. Her debts can vary from simple to extreme but for every question or request, she must pay her dues. Her abilities as a shamanness in the supernatural friendly cities are paid for as a service. In the inhospitable land of today's world, many are looking for lost loved ones. It's these very supernatural abilities that have been called upon by the Church and a highly wealthy and influential family of Oakland. The mistress of a prominent figurehead has been abducted and may be dead. The Church has requested Aisling to go into the ghostlands to find her - alive if possible.

What Aisling finds is a dark and gruesome scene. While still in her astral state, Aisling had dropped into the physical world to find Elena thankfully alive but set for sacrifice. Knowing she has little time to save Elena from death, she follows instructions from Aziel who has traveled with her into the spirit lands. He gives her a name. Of course the debt will be high for her summoning, but Aisling cannot allow Elena to die when she has a chance to prevent it. Risking her own life, Aisling summons Zurael en Caym and invites death. Looking on with terror, Aisling watches as the demon viciously kills the dark-robed figures in the act of performing black and dangerous magic. And before Zurael leaves he declares to Aisling his deadly intent for retribution.

When Zurael returns to his home, the Kingdom of Djinn deep within the ghostlands, he's crazed with blood lust for the child of mud who commanded that he do her bidding. Long before the alien angels arrived on this land and cast their image within humans, the Djinn - beings created from Earth's fire - ruled. Now, banned deep within the ghostlands, the Djinn await their moment when they can rule the land that's rightfully theirs once again. The black magic that once called forth their Djinn populace to be bound to the bidding of the children of mud, has been gone for a comfortable period time. Now that delicate safety has been shattered with the girl that summoned Zurael so easily. She poses a huge risk to any other Djinn names that she may know and he must destroy her to keep them safe.

Unfortunately for Zurael, before he can kill the girl who summoned him, he must use her first to find an ancient tablet that may be deadly to his kind if it is possessed by the wrong hands. But in order to use her he must protect her and to protect he must get close to her and to get close to her he must gain her trust. It is these facts that terrify Zurael for the girl has an alarming affect on his mind and body. He fears that she's already managed to enslave him.

After Aisling's service, the Church installs her at the previous shaman's house. The obviousness of his death is written with the amount of dust that lingers over everything. Privacy and peace is short lived though and Aisling is soon confronted by a very angry Zurael. Luckily he's not there to kill her - yet.

It doesn't take very long for Zurael to begin to worry that bringing upon Aisling's death is something that not only no longer appeals to him but horrifies him as well. This dilemma only serves to further ignite his anger. But he has little time to think upon the matter. No sooner does he arrive at Aisling's door when Elena, the woman that Aisling summoned him to save, appears. Using a drug unknown to both Zurael and Aisling, Elena forces all three of them into the ghotlands against their will. When they arrive, Aisling's debt is called in: Find who's creating Ghost, the drug that was used to force them into the ghostlands, and either bring about their death or kill them herself. The task set forth for Aisling coincides with Zurael's and together the two embark on an epic journey fraught with betrayal and death.

Aisling and Zurael's journey isn't only deadly, it's also filled with erotic escapism. As they both become more and more addicted to each other's touch, the more they come to rely and need one another as well. Soon Zurael intends to not only prevent anyone from harming Aisling but he also intends on finding a way to keep her forever. But when their worst nightmare becomes reality and Aisling is used to bind Zurael to a sorcerer, their chances of happily ever after are dashed to the winds. Not only will Aisling have to kill to unbind Zurael but she also must do the one thing that she has sworn to never do again. She must summon Zurael.

I have conflicted feelings about 'Ghostland'. While I'm in complete awe of the complex world building that Jory Strong has created with such stunning clarity, my connection to the characters was frustratingly weak. Sure Aisling was brave and loyal but she lacked something. I felt that she was just going along for the ride. She didn't make any real decisions except one that I can think of. Everything she did was to clear a debt or create a new one. It was also hard sometimes to believe that despite her sheer terror of Zurael, she could fully submit to him sexually. And Aisling never really makes any attempts to discover why he's sticking to her side like glue other than to probably kill her.

Zurael and his potent sexuality was easier to connect with. He really wanted to do his best to protect Aisling and I think he did a good job of it. I was also happy that his decision to kill Aisling was squashed the moment he laid eyes on her in the physical world. He wants her badly enough to loose an entire Kingdom. Gotta love that about a man. I also loved that as a Djinn, he can bind his soul to another with a kiss. It was refreshing to read that instead of binding souls with sex - which is so popular - in 'Ghostland' the characters can bind with the mere sharing of breath.

Unfortunately, despite the above mentioned, the romance was lacking, in my opinion. The book is labeled an Urban Fantasy Romance but I thought it read more as an Erotic novel. I think that if it had the Erotic label, I would have been more forgiving but if you're going to label a novel romance then that's what I expect it to deliver.

In addition, I felt that there were too many evil characters. It just seemed like everyone wanted Aisling dead including Zurael at one point. It makes the reading experience a little stressful as you await for each new character introduced to try their hand at bringing upon either Aisling's demise or death. And there were a LOT of characters. I found myself flipping back through the pages numerous times just to remind myself who is who and what their agenda is.

All and all the book was confusing and lacked not only reader connection to the characters but romance as well. Although, I do have to give points to the world building. It was extremely fascinating.

C

Available NOW!

Ghostland Series Book Two

Held prisoner by humans, his angelic memory and power lost because of the sigil-inscribed collar around his neck, Tir dreams of freedom and hungers for vengeance. He’s sworn he’ll never lie with a mortal, but when Araña removes his shackles and helps him escape his captivity, she melts his icy control and leaves him burning with desire. She’s a temptation he can’t resist—an unknowing enemy who might well enslave him more thoroughly than the chains he’s worn for centuries.

Branded, feared, untouchable because of the deadly spider-shaped mark on her skin, Araña is unaware of her true origins. Raised in a fundamentalist settlement until she escaped and found refuge among outcasts and criminals, she believes herself demon-tainted. But when her unnatural psychic ability causes her to weave her destiny to Tir’s, their alliance turns into an exploration of passion, and begins a quest that will lead to her Djinn heritage.

Powerful forces brought them together to serve a greater purpose…but learning the truth of what they are will destroy them—unless their love is strong enough to overcome the dark legacy of a battle that began with the birth of mankind.

Christine Wells 'Wicked Little Game' Winner!

Wow! A HUGE thank you to Christine Wells for spending her entire Monday replying to entry comments. That was awesome!

Also, a big thank you to her for offering the wonderful giveaway: An autographed copy of Wicked Little Game.

For those of you who haven't tried this author, I encourage you to run - not walk - to your nearest and dearest bookstore and get yourself a little something of hers. You'll not be disappointed.

Don't forget to check out Christine's website for more information on available and upcoming releases.

One last item. To everyone who participated: THANK YOU!

And finally, the winner is....


Deborah Wellenstein!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Note: Heather D was the winner, however it was brought to my attention that she had requested not to be entered in her comment. Therefore the prize goes to the runner up.

Deborah, please email Christine Wells at christine(at)christine-wells(dot)com to claim your prize.

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alba
Carolyn Crane (aka CJ)
blueviolet
kngmckellar
Cynthya
Leontine
Wanda
mom2anutball
Deedles
Sweeter the berry
purango
Mina Wolf
malleycc
Helen
js22
Mandi
heatherzilla
booklover1335
Beth
theyyyguy@yahoo.com
clynsg
linett
Sunnyvale
Barbara fatimastreasure(at)hotmail(dot)com
Armenia
memetu
CrystalGB
Maja
ladycat713
Aymless
Timestamp: 2009-08-14 15:32:54 UTC

Review: Rough Canvas

Review: Rough Canvas by Joey W. Hill

When his father dies, Thomas is forced to abandon a burgeoning art career in New York. As difficult as it was to give up his lifelong dream, it’s nothing next to walking away from the man he loves. Marcus taught him to embrace who he is, a sexual submissive who responds to the touch of only one Master. But why would the sophisticated Marcus need some farm kid from the South?

Then Marcus shows up and offers him a way to continue his art career and help his family. There’s only one hitch – he asks Thomas to spend a week with him in the Berkshires. Thomas knows he should refuse. But he’s never been able to say no to his Master.

Nature of Desire Series Book Six (series does not need to be read in order)

Sigh...how does one encompass within a review the seemingly endless emotional range of a Joey W. Hill novel? I'm sitting here trying to organize my thoughts into a some semblance of understanding with little luck. I've already started the review once and managed to get half through it before deleting it all. And apparently now I'm whining. Okay, moving on.

Let me first start off by explaining that this was my first male/male romance. I didn't steer clear of the subject matter over prejudice but rather because I thought my own heterosexual preferences would leave much to be desired. Would I be able to relate without a female perspective? Due to my initial hesitance, I turned to my trusted reader source: Joey W. Hill. She's a remarkable writer with astounding talent and because I know that I would enjoy reading the contents of her grocery list, I would most likely enjoy her m/m BSDM novels. And yes, 'Rough Canvas' does delve into the Dominant/submissive sexual roles.

For some readers, extreme to even light BDSM erotic novels make them uncomfortable. Therefore, I think it's crucial to point out that Joey W. Hill not only creates a safe environment for her characters and their sexual preferences, but she also instills the morale belief in them that a true D/s relationship only works with absolute trust. This is perhaps partially the reason for her success for not only are her characters safe, but that safety also transcends into the reader mind.

Marcus is a sexual Dominant. He's also filthy rich, absurdly gorgeous and in possession of a rapier wit making him desired equally by both sexes. Unfortunately for the females of this world, Marcus is a homosexual and has been from a very early age. Despite being forty - give or take a few years - Marcus has only truly loved one man. But eighteen months ago, that love was lost - torn apart by family obligation and human prejudice. But Marcus has waited long enough to claim what's his and this time, he'll not let the man he loves go without a fight.

Thomas has done nothing but try to survive since he left not only the thriving art world of New York City but more importantly his lover Marcus. He's convinced himself that leaving Marcus was the right thing to do. His father had died and one month later his younger brother was paralyzed in a tractor accident. Now, as the head of the family, it's Thomas' job to make sure that their hardware store - his father's dream - stays alive while his own dream of being a painter is crushed.

It was Thomas' incredible gift of painting that captured Marcus' initial attention. As a very reputable art gallery owner, Marcus had always had a knack for detecting raw talent and Thomas' work shined bright as the next artist to revolutionize erotic art. But beyond that, it was Thomas and his shy farm boy nature that perked Marcus' sexual interest. It was within the bonds of trust that Marcus stripped Thomas down, revealing his previously unknown inner submissive. Even Marcus wouldn't have predicted the desperate need that grew within his heart to possess Thomas forever. Not until he was gone did he even realize that he loved Thomas. In an attempt to win Thomas forever, Marcus offers him one week. One week to start some projects for an interested buyer with the ultimate underlying goal of possessing Thomas' soul.

Since Thomas abandoned his life with Marcus, his muse has dried up leaving his imagination a barren wasteland that has only served to kindle the fires of his hellish prison of responsibility. Although he's in financial despair, Thomas is reluctant to entertain Marcus' offer but ultimately seizes the opportunity to provide for his family and hopefully purge Marcus from his system after one week of bliss. Well aware that seven days with Marcus might leave the already fragile pieces of his soul shattered, he rationalizes that it's better to have one week then no week at all.

Marcus wastes no time in re-establishing his claim of Thomas' body but in addition to unleashing his pent up lust, Marcus is delving as deeply as he can into Thomas' heart and soul. With his yearning knowing no bounds, Marcus reveals that he loves Thomas - has loved him and is determined to make a life with him.

These confessions from Marcus leave Thomas very disconcerted. For one, Marcus could never possibly love a farm boy like him. Just his sheer magnetism and undeniable wealth makes Thomas feel he has little to offer the perfection that is Marcus. Beyond that, Thomas can't make his homosexual preferences his way of life. His family are strict Catholics and his mother would never approve. He can't bear to hurt his family in that way. He's also promised his hand to a girl in his town therefore there is no way that he can even entertain the thought of Marcus' love for him. Resolved in his reasons, Thomas doesn't acknowledge Marcus' love.

Marcus notices Thomas' lack of response to his proclamations but truly what can he do? He knows and understands Thomas' reasons even when he doesn't voice them but he also can't help but feel anger. If all he has is a week, then that's what he'll take. But with this week Marcus is also determined to take their D/s relationship into a more intense realm. Previously, their sexual relationship, while practicing in BDSM, was still only conducted within the privacy of home. Marcus now feels that it's time to assert his dominance in a more public venue.

The Zone, a very popular and exclusive BDSM club in Florida, recently obtained another club in the north eastern area of the states that caters directly to male/male BDSM. It is here that Marcus takes Thomas. What next ensues are scenes that to me have always seemed to be choreographed as a play or dance. Hill lays out her stage in such an elaborate and captivating way with everything having a specific art and place to draw your attention and ensnare your senses. She then proceeds to place her characters in such an arrangement that not only is the reader focused on their actions, but there are also other erotic scenes playing out around them that leaves your mind's eye darting around in wonder. This is one of my favorite aspects of Hill's writing. There are fabulous examples of this "choreography" in not only 'Rough Canvas' but in The Vampire Queen's Servant, Natural Law, Ice Queen and Mirror of My Soul.

Up until this point, nothing of Marcus' past has been revealed. Thomas knows that the perfection of his exterior hides a difficult childhood but Marcus has easily deflected any of Thomas' inquires. While Marcus doesn't want to taint the purity and refreshing innocence that is Thomas, Thomas sees it as an act of distrust which allows him to further question Marcus' proclamations of love. How can Marcus love him but not trust him enough to divulge all of who he is?

When Marcus is severely injured in a brawl, the facts of his past are finally revealed and what Thomas learns doesn't surprise him but rather fills in the holes of his suspensions. It's in the unveiling of Marcus' past that opens Thomas' eyes to the truth. Marcus does love him and Thomas returns that love. But when Marcus once again reaches out to claim Thomas forever, Thomas says no. He knows that in order to complete the bonds of trust, Thomas must prove his love for Marcus. But when the darkness of Marcus' soul bleeds onto others after Thomas' refusal, Thomas knows he must work fast or loose the man that has come to mean everything.

'Rough Canvas' was an enlightening experience. Of course I've heard of the struggles that people go through to have their sexual preferences accepted by their families but to read about it in such detail brought a new found respect for anyone that needs immeasurable courage to stand up to those they love. Joey W. Hill doesn't approach the subject lightly but rather shines the power of the sun on the issue. She's also not afraid to venture into the darkest of souls to show the power of human refusal. To be abandoned by your family simply because of your love for the same sex is terrible and Hill paints a gruesome picture of it's aftereffects.

I perceived Marcus and Thomas characters, not as stereotypical, but rather easily identifiable roles in the struggle for familial acceptance of homosexuality. Marcus is the confident gay man, secure in his sexuality and life style while Thomas is the quintessential man still in the closet. He knows he's gay but fear of hurting his family is a major suppressant to him "coming out". Of course Thomas' reluctance is a major frustration for Marcus but knowing what he's personally gone through with his own family gives him an understanding of Thomas' plight.

While I enjoyed Hill's spotlight on human nature, I still had a little trouble connecting with the male/male romance. I loved how Marcus looked upon Thomas with heated passion and possession but I wanted it directed at a female so that I could relate better to the feel of his gaze. Marcus is my kind of hero and it lends credence to the saying that all the good ones are gay. Ha!

All and all, I enjoyed 'Rough Canvas' but my first love will always be male/female romances.

Hussy Approved Reading Material!

B

Interview with Christine Wells & Giveaway!

I stumbled across a mention of Wicked Little Game by Christine Wells on Anna Campbell's website. A Marquis, longing hopelessly for another man's wife, is tempted to take up an offer from her dastardly husband: Spend one passion filled night with the woman that's plagued his thoughts for years in return for the criminal sum of ten thousand pounds. Needless to say my interest was immediate and I googled the unknown author, read an excerpt and promptly fled the office for the nearest bookstore to pick up my own copy. My instincts were spot on too after I finished the book and loved every moment of 'Wicked Little Game'. You can read my thoughts in my review.

When I contacted Christine to gush my fangirl love for 'Wicked Little Game', you can only imagine the embarrassing happy dance that erupted when she replied to thank me and offer a signed copy of my precious to giveaway. Yay! I'm so excited to share this author with you.

Please join me in welcoming Christine Wells to Lovin' Me Some Romance!

1. What was your inspiration for 'Wicked Little Game'?

My initial inspiration for WICKED LITTLE GAME was the movie INDECENT PROPOSAL, but the story veered wildly from the premise of a man paying an enormous sum for one night with another man's wife. I had Lady Sarah, who has suffered the pain and humiliation of her husband's infidelity for years and Lord Vane, who met her too late--after she was already married. He has longed for her ever since. And then Sarah's husband offers Vane one night with her for ten thousand pounds. But it's not the money, it's Vane's honor that would be the true price of the bargain.

I deliberately haven't watched the movie since beginning the book and I can't quite remember the ins and outs of it. But that premise was intriguing and with a lot of tweaking, it fitted nicely into a Regency historical romance.

2. I noticed that Jardine, a secondary character in 'Wicked Little Game', was getting his own story in 'Sweetest Little Sin'. Is this going to be a loosely tied series?

The hero and heroine of SWEETEST LITTLE SIN, Jardine and Louisa, were secondary characters in THE DANGEROUS DUKE and I had so much demand for their story from readers, I decided to write that one next. Jardine also appears briefly in WICKED LITTLE GAME. All my books stand alone but some feature common characters. I have a full explanation on my website: http://www.christine-wells.com/extras.html

3. When writing about a difficult heroine, you run the risk of turning readers off from her plight. Was this a fear you had with Lady Sarah Cole?

Oh, yes, absolutely. Sarah is flawed and stubborn and proud. She was so real to me that I would have had a lot of trouble 'softening' her or trying to make her more obviously likeable, but actually, my editor didn't ask me to change her at all. I'm so delighted that readers seem to have understood why she acted the way she did and liked her in spite of her flaws.

4. A follow up question (in a way): Have characters ever "argued" with you on where they want to go in the story or do they pretty much do what you tell them to do?

I don't plot in advance, so once I have a central premise and some turning points in mind, my characters drive the action. Sometimes I have to accept that a turning point or a scene I really wanted to write later in the book simply isn't appropriate, given the way my characters behave on the page. When I'm writing well, it feels as if the story is going on without me in some parallel universe and my job is to transcribe it as best I can. So my characters don't argue with me, but if something's off in the way the story reads on the page, I have to go back and watch and listen harder to what's happening over there to get it right. It sounds nuts, doesn't it? LOL

5. Are there any plans for Vane's brothers getting their own story?
I don't have any immediate plans to write Vane's brothers' stories--that was definitely not my intention in including them in WICKED LITTLE GAME. I think series with brothers have been done quite a lot and I don't want to go down that road at this stage. However, if I was writing a heroine and one of Vane's brothers turned out to be perfect for her, I'd certainly use him. They are a gorgeous collection of men!

6. It says on your website that you have a Bachelor of Laws and attempted writing a crime thriller. Will you ever decide to revisit that genre? Or do you potentially see yourself using the degree for another romance genre like contemporary? Would you ever even consider writing in another genre at all?

No, crime thrillers were not my bag at all, sadly! I don't think I'll ever stop writing historicals but I might branch out into other romance subgenres. It would be fun to use the law degree--or rather, my experience as a lawyer--in some form or other, but I have to think of a good slant. The day to day life of a corporate lawyer would scarcely be riveting to the general public!

7. In 'Wicked Little Game' you brought to life forbidden sexual tension as well as some explosive love scenes. I've always thought an author's ability to provoke such feeling, not only in their characters but in their readers as well, is a form of art. Do you find it difficult to write sexual tension? Does a lot of your ability to capture those feelings rely heavily on your characters or the nature of the story?

Thank you, what a compliment! I think you're right--the level of sexual tension depends a lot on the set-up of the story and on the characters. Because of its premise, WICKED LITTLE GAME is about two characters who begin the story negotiating their relationship in terms of sex. When I have the right character and situation, I can really feel the charge and the tension when I'm writing. I might finish a scene and realize I haven't breathed for a while. :) Love scenes are pivotal in my books. You can show ten times more about character and the nuances of the hero and heroine's relationship in a love scene than in any other. I find them endlessly fascinating to write.

8. Me and my blogger friends have a love for what we affectionately call "Hussy Reading Material". Do you have any go to romance authors that you prefer when or if you're in need of more erotic romance reading material?

Oh, hey, maybe you all need to give me some recommendations! I tend to enjoy the hotter historical romances that aren't specifically erotic romance, like Lisa Kleypas, Liz Carlyle, Anna Campbell. Denise Rossetti writes fabulous and intelligent erotica (and she's also a friend and critique partner, so I'm biased:). Tawny Weber and Kathleen O'Reilly write fantastic Blazes and Annie West writes superbly nuanced love scenes in her Presents romances. The most important thing for me is that I'm invested in the characters. Once they are real people to me, they can explore a lot of territory and I'll follow.

Thank you so much for having me here today. I hope you will all give me recommendations for your "Hussy Reading Material". I'll take copious notes! One reader who comments will win a signed copy of WICKED LITTLE GAME.

*Contest Open to All*
**Contest Closes and Winners will be Announced Friday, August 14th**

A big thank you to Christine Wells for answering all my questions and providing a signed copy of 'Wicked Little Game'. Please be sure to take a moment to visit Christine's website for the latest information on her current and upcoming releases.

Erin Quinn Giveaway Winner!

Sigh...I'm still not over how beautiful this cover is. I've read that it's even more gorgeous in person too.

Thank you again to Erin Quinn for not only answering my questions about your debut novel, Haunting Beauty, but for also being available to talk with commenters. Thank you!!

'Haunting Beauty' is available NOW!

You can read an excerpt HERE!

Erin was also incredibly generous to offer not one but two books from her Erin Grady name, Echoes and Whispers, to one lucky winner!

And that lucky commenter is:


MARIE


CONGRATULATIONS!!


Marie, please email Erin Quinn at write2erinquinn(at)aol(dot)com to claim your prize.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

There were 63 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Marie
ZESTYWONDERLAND
Mary G
Alexa
ann marie
Barbara
Lyoness2009
Chelsea B.
Beth
Helen S
Amanda
Lea
Carol EL
Patti
Cybercliper
cindysku
ScrewLucy
joder
loki304[at]tds[dot]net
elaing8
Kimberly
crystalf
Kelly F
Mandi
bridget3420
Misusedinnocence
Cheryl
Wanda
Deedles
theyyyguy@yahoo.com
malleycc
Randominities
js22
Jennifer
Eva S
JennJ
donnas
I Heart Book Gossip
booklover1335
clynsg
Gabriel J.
kngmckellar
Razlover's Book Blog
Blanche
Bella
Deborah Wellenstein
Renee G
Cindy W
etirv
CrystalGB
Leontine
kcatlin
Heather D
Wanda
Armenia
The_Book_Queen
TheGhostBlogger
lilyk
Blodeuedd
linett
RachieG
Sara
Jinxy and Me
Timestamp: 2009-08-07 15:25:04 UTC

Interview with Erin Quinn & Giveaway!!

Hi everyone! Erin Quinn, aka Erin Grady, allowed me the pleasure of picking her brain about her debut novel Haunting Beauty which releases Tuesday, August 4th.

I'm also excited to announce that Erin will be giving away a copy of both Echoes and Whispers from her Erin Grady name to one lucky commenter.

1. Your debut novel 'Haunting Beauty' releases tomorrow, August 4th. Can you tell us a bit about the novel? What your inspiration was?

I started writing HAUNTING BEAUTY at a time in my career where I wanted to make a change. My other novels are based in the US and though they definitely have a paranormal element, there is also a suspense/mystery feel to them. I wanted to step further into the paranormal world and I wanted to do something different. I don’t write vampires or shape shifters (at least I haven’t ever, but never say never, right?) not because I don’t like them but because so many great authors are already doing that and doing it wonderfully. On top of that, what really intrigues me is the idea that Joe Normal walking down the street or Mary Nobody might actually have hidden abilities that s/he doesn’t even know about. It’s intriguing to me.

And once I met Sean Ballagh, hero of HAUNTING BEAUTY, I couldn’t not write about him. I fall in love with all of my heroes, but there is something about Sean that still has me. He is so conflicted and the chemistry he has with Danni Smith was so explosive. How could I not go there?

2. From the summary, it would appear that 'Haunting Beauty' takes place for the majority of the novel in Ireland. Did you travel there for research or did you rely heavily on books and the Internet to get a good grasp and feel of the land?

In my dreams, I went (sigh). But the budget kept me firmly in Arizona. I did research and research and research and research. It was really daunting, because my other books (as I mentioned) were set in the good ol’ US of A where our “known” history goes back a few hundred years. Moving to a country where the history is marked by thousands—New Grange is thought to be older than Stonehenge—was overwhelming. I was terrified that I wouldn’t do justice to Ireland. Even though HAUNTING BEAUTY is contemporary, I believe you have to understand the history of a people or place to truly depict who they are now.

When Diana Gabaldon read HAUNTING BEAUTY and gave me a cover quote, she also told me that I had done a great job with the dialect so I was very happy about that.

3. Your heroine, Danni Jones, is a very gifted clairvoyant. Was this ability something you researched or is it straight from your imagination? There were also clues in the excerpt that hinted to Danni's aversion to her extraordinary gift. Is this something that she grapples with throughout the novel?

Yes, yes and yes. *grin* I did research, but much of what Danni experiences is so . . . undocumented? . . . that I didn’t want to confine myself to the known world and I didn’t want to limit Danni to it either so I went with my gut and imagination.

As far as Danni . . . .Life has been hard on Danni, but she’s not the kind of woman who rolls over and takes it. She’s forged ahead and, with her little dog, Bean, has found contentment, if not happiness. She’s shut the door on that part of her that is special because in her experience, special doesn’t mean good, it means different, it means weird. That door is pried open, however, by Sean and by dangling carrot of learning who she is and who her people are. As an abandoned child, finding her family has been everything she’s wished for. But she can’t have one without the other. If she refuses to look into herself, she’ll never be able to see her past or her live her future.

4. I don't know much about your hero, Sean Ballagh, but the summary does imply that he's very mysterious. Can you give us some more juicy details on him?

Sean, Sean, Sean . . . . Did I mention I’m still in love with him? Sean is every man and no man. He is complex and conflicted, but he has only ever wanted to do the right thing. When he meets Danni, he sees everything HE’S every wished for, but a part of him doesn’t feel worthy of her and his goal to bring her home to Ireland is at odds with his need to protect her. Here’s an excerpt that I think captures who he is:

Sean dropped his gaze to the pulse that beat at her throat. The man's t-shirt clung to her breasts, peaking at hardened nipples. The stretchy pants fit her lean, shapely legs, molding curves and muscle all the way down to the thick white socks and even those were somehow sexy, somehow intimate. He skimmed back up, imagined catching the hem of her shirt and pulling it over her head, baring those soft shoulders, the curve of her throat, the slope of her breasts.

A train wreck, that's what this was. But the course was set and the outcome inevitable.

She didn't say a word as she watched him, letting her own eyes move from his face to his bare chest to his stomach. His muscles tightened in anticipation, as if her glancing look were a touch that would heat his skin. He wanted her to look lower, to see that just standing this close to her had him thinking of so much more.

Neither spoke, because words would be redundant.

He felt incapable of movement and so he waited instead for her. Waited for the questions in her eyes to become answers, decisions. She swayed closer and the soft scent of her filled him with aching need. He wanted to bury his face in her hair, inhale, taste that scent. Taste every inch of her.

Her hands settled against his chest, light as petals, hot and silky and moving over the taut muscles. Searching, finding. They paused just over his heart, feeling the erratic beat, the labored pounding. He thought she could feel the blood rushing through his veins, urging him to move, to take. He felt hot, hotter than humanly possible. Like he might suddenly combust and melt into something only she could ply with her feather touch.

She stilled, those small hands holding his heart. Then she tipped her head back and he was staring into eyes of winter smoke and midnight slate. They were wide and round and hurt and bewildered. Why didn't he touch her back?

"I'm afraid," he said without meaning to.

Afraid that he'd fall into those eyes and never find his way out again. Afraid that this, this which felt so real, could somehow be snatched away if he grasped too tightly. Afraid of returning to that land of numbness that had become his life. Afraid now to chance an escape.

The answer--a self fulfilling prophecy--made him exhale with twisted humor. Danni bit her lip and then smiled back, slowly, sweetly, sexily.

"Don't be," she said, and it was his undoing.

Haunting Beauty © Erin Quinn

5. Is 'Haunting Beauty' the start of a series or is it a stand alone novel? Or both?

Both. It is the start of the Haunting Series, but each story is stand alone. Danni’s brother is the hero of HAUNTING WARRIOR which will be out in May. And let me tell you, he’s got a story to tell as well.

6. I'm sure you've noticed how not only I but other bloggers are feeling some major love for the cover of 'Haunting Beauty'. What was your reaction when you first saw it? In your opinion, does it match the tone of the novel? Is there any items of significance that are on the cover?

Are you kidding? When I saw the cover I was blown away. I, too, think it’s absolutely gorgeous. I received my author copies of the book a couple of weeks ago and I’m telling you, the jpg doesn’t do the real thing justice. It is even more beautiful, the colors richer on the book. Thrilled doesn’t come close to describing. HAUNTING BEAUTY is set on a fictitious island of the southern coast of Ireland and so the sea is a major part of daily life. The spirals you can see on the medallions and faintly beneath the image are extremely important to the story, though I can’t tell you why. And the amulet the woman wears is crucial (although I must confess, it doesn’t look as I pictured it or described it, but it’s so beautiful that I didn’t complain.)

7. What's something that not too many people know about you?

I sat in the Florence State Penitentiary gas chamber and lived to tell about.

8. Me and my blogger friends have a love for what we affectionately call "Hussy Reading Material". Do you have any romance authors that you prefer when or if you're in need of more erotic romance reading material?

LOL, now that’s funny, Hussy Reading. It’s always so hard for me to list the authors who I love because I love so many. I have a lot of friends who write hot, hot books and do an amazing job. Calista Fox, Allyson James, Sylvia Day, MacKenzie McKade, Cassie Ryan are a few of my favs and by no means the entire list of them. And I really liked the LKH Merry Gentry and Anita Blake books too, although I glommed on both when I first discovered and read them back to back until I got a bit burned out and had to take a break, so I’m not current with either series. My latest glom is probably Mary Balogh—which is funny because I’ve never been much of a Regency reader, but I just loved her last series and so now I’m going through her backlist. Love her characters. It makes my heart happy to see so many romance books on the shelves and, better yet, so many GREAT ones on the shelves. My TBR stack is towering and I’ve discovered so many authors recently who are on book number 30 or 40 and I’m just finding them. Not that I’m complaining, it’s always fabulous to discover a new author and realize you don’t have to wait to read something else by them.

*Contest Open to ALL*
**Contest Closes and Winners will be Announced Friday, August 7th**

A big thank you to Erin for answering all my questions. Be sure to visit Erin Quinn's Website for more information on 'Haunting Beauty' including an Excerpt of Chapter One.