What's Up Wednesday! (30)

What's Up Wednesday is a little weekly post that I'm hosting. Just something short and sweet about what's new with me, the romance realm and what ever else strikes my fancy.

So, what's up with me?

Well, I've recently discovered two things: One, I love prequels and I'll explain why further down in my movie review section. And two, I've discovered that my maternal grandmother is cruel. She is and I feel in a way that by recognizing this, I've lost an innocence that I didn't even know I had left to loose.

If you met my grandma you'd think her the sweetest woman and in a way, you would be right. She is super sweet and most enjoy her presence. What you wouldn't know is the necessity of guarding your tongue. My grandma is a hound dog for gossip and once she's got something juicy, she'll spread it around like wild fire. Gossip isn't a bad thing. Old biddies love to gossip but my grandma is smart, smarter than I've given her credit for. Or rather, it's not that I didn't think her smart it's that I didn't think her capable of wielding such passive aggressive cruelty against her own family.

Here's what happened: My mom's birthday was last week. She had a good time. A real good time. Give my mom three glasses of wine and she's a hoot and a holler! Thinking nothing of it, I went about my life. A few days later, my grandma calls me all serious like wanting to know if my mom was mad at her and if she had a good time at her birthday dinner. My response was of course, couldn't you tell? Apparently not. My grandma distorted every moment into a vicious act by my mom all of which she believed was directed at her. A bit shocked by my grandma's misguided observations, I told her repeatedly throughout the conversation that she was wrong and that her impressions where hers and hers alone. Knowing that my grandma spreads gossip, I didn't want her telling people that she thought my mom had behaved poorly especially where my grandma was concerned. My efforts were in vain.

It turns out that my grandma told my mom's sister who phoned my mom peeved as hell. Now mind you, her information is totally wrong because it's coming from my grandma. Some further back story: My family is a extremely divided but it's left me wondering if some of the reason is because of my grandma. She intentionally pollutes one or more people with her own misguided perceptions effectively turning that person against another. It doesn't help that no one will confront each other or resolve issues, instead, things are brushed under the rug to fester and rot. In a way, this allows my grandma to have control over each individual. She'll always be overlooked in a group but on an individual scale, she'll appear the one with all the knowledge.

Not so funny ending: My grandma calls my mom making no mention of the fact that she's been bad mouthing her to the entire family but instead acts as though she has no problem whatsoever. As if the whole thing never happened. As if she's just a little old lady minding her own business. Now that's the cruelest act of it all.

Weekend Movie Review!

I've come to the realization that I love prequels. Think "Casino Royale", "Wolverine: Origins" and now "X-Men: First Class". I love learning why characters are the way they are. For instance, I loved learning why Bond wears tailored suits, why he likes his drink shaken not stirred, why he's a womanizer, and most importantly, why he distrusts all but himself. Simply put, I love the rush of discovery.

"X-Men: First Class" featuring James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender. First of all, it's official, I've fallen head-over-heels in love with Michael Fassbender and to some extent, James McAvoy. God these boys with their lilting brogues know how to bring me to my knees!! This is the prequel to X-Men. We learn the discovery of mutants and the entire backstory for Charles Xavier (McAvoy) and Eric Lehnsherr a.k.a. Magneto (Fassbender). This was good. So good! Set in the sixties during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the mutants unite to help stop World War III while also unveiling themselves to the world. My only complaint, the movie didn't feel or look like the sixties era except for when it came to the TV's. It was a bit jarring to randomly see old TV sets. Otherwise, loved the film and the actors. Rating: 4.5 Stars 

"Thor" featuring Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth. After his arrogance thrusts his world to the brink of war, Thor (Hemsworth) is banished to exile on Earth. He must learn the error of his ways, to think of others and not only himself. Once he's done that, he can reclaim the powers he's been stripped of and return home. In the meantime, he's thumping and fighting his way on Earth with the help of Jane Foster (Portman). On the brink of scientific discovery, Jane wants answers from Thor but she's also finding herself falling in love with the him. When this golden hunk of man starts to gentle and show some manners, he's pretty stirring and definitely not hard to look at. Not much of a plot but featuring some laughs, excellent special effects, and a beautiful lead hero, "Thor" is good one night stand. I doubt I'd give him a second run though. Rating: 3 Stars

What's new in romance!

Want to know how much influence and editor has on an author? Check out a discussion with paranormal romance author Meljean Brook and Berkley editor, Cindy Hwang HERE on GoodReads.

Meljean Brook is giving away some ARC's of her steampunk November release HEART OF STEEL HERE!

Here's some new cover candy:

TANGLE OF NEED by Nalini Singh

Publisher: Berkley Sensation

Release Date: May 29, 2012

Series: Psy-Changeling Book 11

So, what's new with you?

Review: DEMON MARKED by Meljean Brook

Review: DEMON MARKED by Meljean Brook

Nicholas St. Croix is familiar with the evil of demons. After his father’s death, a demon took over his mother’s body and raised him. Six years ago, his “mother” was responsible for the disappearance of the woman he loved, and Nicholas swore he’d find her—even if he had to go to Hell and back. Except she finds him first—and with one tormented kiss, he knows she too is a demon. Now he is determined to take his revenge…

Ash is a half-demon with no memory of her past or how she got to Hell. All she knows is that Nicholas St. Croix holds the key to her identity. And though he’s clearly drawn to her, Nicholas makes no secret of his distrust of her. Yet one kiss at a time, he breaks down her defenses as they battle an array of demons and Guardians. But is Ash’s greatest enemy the man at her side?

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Release Date: September 6, 2011
Review Format: Mass Market Paperback
Genre: Paranormal Romance
336 Pages

Single Title/Series: DEMON MARKED is book 7 in the Guardian Series. Intricately detailed and vast in scope, this is a series where one should seriously consider starting at the beginning. While Ash, the heroine, is extremely new to the world and you can experience this journey with her as a new-to-the-series reader, the plot arcs and secondary characters will have much more meaning if you start with book one. Also, seriously this series is kick ass and I promise you're in for a good time. No money wasted here with this author.

Cover Thoughts: Alright, I'll speak the truth. This cover wasn't a favorite of mine. But that was then and this is my reigning thought now: LOVE IT! There's a scene in the book where the hero describes the look, dress and mannerisms of the heroine and the Berkley Art Department nailed it! Honestly I feel like I'm looking at Ash. The only aspect not spot on is her demon markings which I seriously doubt could ever be replicated based on the book's description, so I'm still good.

Origins: I purchased this book for my own reading enjoyment.

My Review:

The Plot:

Awakening in a psychiatric hospital from a three year catatonic haze, Ash has no memory of the past or who she is except for fleeting nightmares of ice and terror. Escaping with what little information she could find in her patient files, Ash heads to London, to Nicholas St. Croix and the possibility of discovering who and what she is for she's decidedly not human but something...other. While this otherness would undoubtedly cause fear in any normal person, little affects Ash. The blistering cold winter weather in London, while uncomfortable, doesn't slow her down. She needs no nourishment and no sleep. And while people and their thoughts fascinate her, Ash can't manage to produce any emotion of her own. That is until something, someone or some action sparks a moment of familiarity, not exactly a memory, but rather a sense of déjà vu. Upon finding Nicholas, Ash doesn't sense the familiarity she seeks until he captures her mouth in a ravenous kiss.

Concluding what must be a demon wearing the guise of his long dead girlfriend, Rachel Boyle, Nicholas St. Croix feels a rushing gush of hatred and malevolent glee as the opportunity to finally slay the demon that ruined his life now stands before him, snared in his trap. Wanting answers and expecting the demon executing Rachel's mannerisms with perfect ease to lie just as easily, Nicholas enters into a bargain that completely benefits his cause. The demon will tell him everything she knows, never lie, and if she's not the one he seeks, then she'll help him find her; her being Madelyn, his mother. In exchange, Nicholas will help the demon discover who she is. Momentarily leaden with disappointment when the demon confirms under the bargain that she's not Madelyn, Nicholas does however discover that his demon is the perfect bait and he'll use her to draw Madelyn in then slay her just as he'll slay Madelyn. Until then, he'll continue to believe that everything the demon says is a lie or some manipulative effort to discover his weaknesses and divert him from his goal of revenge.

Ash can easily discern Nicholas's distrust but that's about it. The first human she's come across that can completely shield their emotions from her, Ash finds herself forced to analyse other aspects of Nicholas's behavior in order to figure out what he's thinking. An amusing game to be sure but it also draws her focus to his body arousing her mentally and physically. She wants him badly and she tells him as much only to meet his vocal refusal but his body says differently. However, sex falls to the back burner when Ash has a telling run-in with another demon. Equipped with no fighting skills and no ability to fly, Ash is tossed around like a rag doll and nearly killed begging the question: what is Ash?

Nicholas, experiencing a rush of unfamiliar protective instincts, re-organizes his priorities. Determined to train Ash to the best of his capable abilities, they hide out at Nicholas's hunting cabin in rural middle America. It's there that Nicholas discovers, and more importantly, that he believes Ash is the exception to the rule. But just when he accepts that he's fallen in love with a demon, the Guardians descend upon their hideaway and flay open the tenuous trust between him and Ash while unveiling a plot that will send her straight back to Hell. For years, Nicholas has derived relentless propulsion from his obsessive need for revenge against the demon that crushed his father, killed his mother, and verbally stripped him of his innocence. Now, having found Ash, having reawakened his heart to life and love, Nicholas will turn all that obsessive, single-minded focus on saving her from a fate he'd sooner die from himself rather than endure.

The Heroine:

Embodying an empty but malleable shell of a soul, Ash, a halfling demon, molds herself from her immediate experiences, her mind like a sponge soaking up everything she comes into contact with. Despite her early inability to convey emotion of her own, there's a gentle caring and hollow sadness to her that quickly and effectively captures your heart. You believe in Ash and you want her to have her Happily Ever After for you know instinctively that she deserves it.

Truthfully, Ash's hollowness is the perfect shield to Nicholas's scathing and unveiled opinion of her. Any other woman would shrink beneath the coldness of his unrelenting gaze and blade of a tongue. But while most are immediately rebuffed, Ash has the patience to look beyond Nicholas's ruthlessly composed exterior, hunting effectively for cracks that lead to his true self. She thinks like the demon she is to unravel the mystery that is Nicholas but she talks and touches him with all her growing humanity. Seriously, the guy stood no chance.

The Hero:

Nearly stone cold to the depths of his marrow, Nicholas St. Croix isn't the easiest hero to fall in love with. His distrust for all but himself shines lethally from his icy blue eyes and coats every word that slips bitterly off his tongue. While Nicholas doesn't think himself damaged, it's clear to the reader that he is and fundamentally so. But when Nicholas falls, he falls exceptionally hard. Suddenly wielding a fierce brand of love, Nicholas becomes an unstoppable, self-sacrificing force that launches him straight to Herodom!

A beguiling character to be sure and one that effectively draws you in like a moth to a flame, Nicholas is a hero I won't be forgetting any time soon. With his entire motivation stemming from revenge, Nicholas eschews life to pursue a demon who couldn't care less if he lives or dies. All that he is and all that he does culminates from this deep-seeded and greedy drive. But this revenge of his defines him in such a unique way. While it could for all intents and purposes, debilitate him in the end, Nicholas has the means and the intelligence to recognize the real meaning in life and that meaning is Ash. But seriously, to meet the guy in reality would be terrifying but oh to be the center of that intense focus. Wow.

My Final Thoughts:

A tight, well plotted, and fantastic addition to the Guardian series, DEMON MARKED ushers fans into the red zone of Michael's long awaited story with a gutsy romance and a most terrifying trip to Hell.

Meljean Brook, fearless as ever, tackles two incredibly difficult characters, breaking them open oh so very slowly, page by page, to unveil an interesting and incredibly unique hero/heroine pairing. An alternate name suggestion for DEMON MARKED is Demon Awakened for both Nicholas and Ash go through an awakening; a rebirth. Nicholas, dead to all but what directly influences his means of revenge, awakens gloriously when he finally accepts his love for Ash. Similarly, Ash is numb, an emotionless being stripped of all that she once was seeking now the answer to her unknown identity. It's Nicholas that awakens her heart. He forces her to re-experience the emotions brutally taken from her and helps her reshape and claim herself as Ash. Standing back and absorbing the novel as a whole, the character growth is fierce and merciless but stunningly beautiful.

In addition, DEMON MARKED offers a new unfettered view of the Guardian world. It offers a new test on what makes a character worthy of this dangerous but rewarding world while also re-examining the Rules that govern it with such cutting brutality. For a steady number of installments, characters have known and understood the land upon which they fight but Ash and Nicholas, theirs is one of new learning. Perhaps a revisit of the building blocks is necessary to go on but whatever its reason, the closer look at the basic elements - basic but no less important - was welcomed by this reader. I had forgotten the power of these simple yet deeply layered rules.

Finally, I must draw attention to the rather excellent pacing of this book. These are no easy reads by any stretch and each one is packed to the brim with important and specific information heralding a clear indication that considerable time is spent on their creation and subsequent choreography. It's clear that Meljean Brook has honed her craft and wields now it with incredible daring. I will always look forward to what she delivers for it will undoubtedly be a new addicting flavor for this particularly ravenous appetite.

Topping a very short list of unparalleled paranormal romance authors, Meljean Brook has built a stunning work of collective art with her Guardian Series and has only managed to strengthen it that much more with DEMON MARKED. A novel forged from the icy numbness of its hero and heroine and ultimately shaped by their inevitable and spectacular melting destiny, DEMON MARKED is an absolute must read. Enjoy!

4.5 Stars

The Series:

DEMON ANGEL
DEMON MOON
DEMON NIGHT
DEMON BOUND
DEMON FORGED
DEMON BLOOD
DEMON MARKED
Untitled Book 8 (Michael's Book) - Releasing Late 2012

DEMON MARKED Release Day Celebration Winner!

And the winner is...

Michelle Bledsoe

CONGRATULATIONS!

*********************************************************

Here's some interesting stats I derived from your answers to my question: Which of Meljean's books had you falling in love with her as an author and why? If you haven't read Meljean Brook say so and why.

• 32% have never read Meljean Brook. Of those, 33% just recently discovered her.
• 28% became hooked on Meljean Brook after reading THE IRON DUKE, book 1 in the Iron Seas Series.
• 19% became hooked on Meljean Brook after reading one of her many novellas.
• 16% became hooked on Meljean Brook after reading DEMON ANGEL, book 1 in the Guardian Series.
• 5% - Other

*********************************************************

DEMON MARKED by Meljean Brook

Publisher: Berkley Sensation

Release Date: September 7, 2011

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: Guardians Book 7

Nicholas St. Croix is familiar with the evil of demons. After his father’s death, a demon took over his mother’s body and raised him. Six years ago, his “mother” was responsible for the disappearance of the woman he loved, and Nicholas swore he’d find her—even if he had to go to Hell and back. Except she finds him first—and with one tormented kiss, he knows she too is a demon. Now he is determined to take his revenge…

Ash is a half-demon with no memory of her past or how she got to Hell. All she knows is that Nicholas St. Croix holds the key to her identity. And though he’s clearly drawn to her, Nicholas makes no secret of his distrust of her. Yet one kiss at a time, he breaks down her defenses as they battle an array of demons and Guardians. But is Ash’s greatest enemy the man at her side?

Stephanie Chong's WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD Winner!

And the winner is...

donnas

CONGRATULATIONS!!

**********************************************************

WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD by Stephanie Chong

Publisher: Harlequin/MIRA
Release Date: August 23, 2011
Series: Company of Angels Book 1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
368 Pages

Fledgling guardian angel and yoga teacher Serena St. Clair dares enter Devil’s Paradise nightclub on a mission – to retrieve the wayward Hollywood “It Boy” she’s assigned to protect. But she’s ambushed by the club’s owner, Archdemon Julian Ascher. The most powerful demonic entity in Los Angeles, Julian is handsome as sin, a master of temptation who loves nothing more than corrupting pleasure-seeking humans. He won’t release the lost soul Serena is supposed to guard. Unless she accepts his dangerous wager…

After the disastrous way his human life ended, Julian vowed that no woman would get the better of him again. Yet this sexy-sweet angel, smelling of fresh ocean air and happiness, triggers centuries-old feelings. Now, their high-stakes game of seduction, where angels fall from grace and where demons fear to tread, will lead them either to an eternity in hell…or a deliciously hot heaven.

What's Up Wednesday! (29)

What's Up Wednesday is a little weekly post that I'm hosting. Just something short and sweet about what's new with me, the romance realm and what ever else strikes my fancy.

So, what's up with me?

Well, Southern California, Tijuana, Mexico, and western Arizona received a little taste of Armageddon last Thursday after 1.4 million San Diego Gas & Electric customers lost power for 12 to 15 hours. When I say 1.4 million customers, that's just the individual houses and businesses but in truth, nearly 5 million people were affected. 5 MILLION PEOPLE!

I was at work when at 3:40 p.m. the building suddenly went dark. In general, a power outage isn't too cumbersome. Typically occurring in the middle of the night, one doesn't necessarily even realize the temporary set back to the stone age until the sun pops up and you're now running way late because your alarm didn't go off. Nothing too scary. But when the power goes out, doesn't come back on, and your car radio is saying that all of San Diego county is dark, now that's a legitimate excuse to panic.

No sooner had power gone out when the cell phone grid crashed due to 5 million people attempting to contact loved ones, emergency assistance, and of course, San Diego Gas & Electric. People's first thought was terrorist attack. The timing couldn't be more perfect or more worse given the fact that the ten year anniversary of 9/11 was in just two days time. Adding fuel to the fire, it was absolutely impossible to get answers. It took two hours for the SDG&E President to finally come on air and say that this event was not the result of a terrorist attack. Well, if not that than what happened?!

One man.

One man managed to press the big red button saying "Power for Southern California On/Off Switch". Seriously!

And while some women I know found the whole lights out epidemic to be the perfect opportunity for a romantic interlude with their hubby's, mine was on complete red alert. Everywhere we went, he carried his prized home defense shot gun and sling of buck shot. Yes, while some men where giving their women some sexy alone time, mine was running around playing Rambo. And while Mr. VFG was have a grand time of it, the shot gun and intense atmosphere was twisting my gut a bit. And well, to be perfectly honest, I'm terrified of the dark. No joke, when I had to go upstairs to wash my face and get my pj's, I had to ask my husband to come with me.

But you know what was amazing, when all was said and done, there was no violence. Instead, you heard reports of neighborhood block parties happening all over the county. Adults were getting together to BBQ, to drink and to let their children run around playing light sabers with flashlights. Are we not the coolest bunch of humanity? You gotta love San Diego for that.

Weekend Movie Review!

"The Change-Up" featuring Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman. A classic switch-a-roo of souls, best friends Mitch Planko (Reynolds) and Dave Lockwood (Bateman) have gone down different paths over the course of their lives. Successful lawyer and married with three children, Dave's burnt out and wishing for Mitch's life which is filled with oodles of sexual escapades and endless hours of play time. Both wanting what the other has, Dave and Mitch find each other suddenly living the other's life after peeing into a fountain together. Having not gone into the movie expecting much, I found it to be extremely enjoyable. Well written and laugh out loud funny, there's some real depth to "The Change-Up". Rating: 4 Stars

What's new in romance?

Here's some fun cover candy for you:

Avenger's Angel by Heather Killough-Walden

Publisher: Signet
Release Date: November 1, 2011
Series: Lost Angels Book 1
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Four thousand years ago, four archangels were cast down to Earth in human form. God's favourites, they came to find their mates, the other half of their souls made only for them, without whom they will ever be complete.

Uriel, Gabriel, Azrael and Michael, however, were not alone. They were followed by another, determined to find the archesses for himself, and whose power cannot be underestimated. But after centuries of fruitless searching, the archangels - and their enemy - have all but given up hope.

Until one day beautiful and gifted Eleanore Granger crosses paths with Uriel, the Angel of Vengeance. And as a storm rages, outside forces conspire together, initiating an age old battle of good versus evil to win the first archess.

More angels! YAY! While the cover isn't necessarily a winner, I can't wait to see what new twists this author will bring to the genre.

BLOODRIGHT by Karin Tabke

Publisher: Berkley Heat
Release Date: April 3, 2012
Series: Blood Moon Trilogy Book 2
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance

Their shared blood will destroy them in hatred–or unite them in passion…

After years of waiting, Lycan Alpha Lucien Mondragon is poised to take revenge on his brother, Rafael, by killing Rafael’s life mate, the Lycan/Slayer half-breed Falon—but he cannot complete the kill. Instead of ending her life, Lucien defiantly marks Falon as his own.

Though terrified by the savage Lucien, Falon finds herself drawn to him. Torn between the love she has for Rafael and the hunger she holds for Lucien, the will of Falon’s heart will lead her to her destined life mate–but it may also doom the brothers and the
Lycan race to extinction…

BLOOD LAW ended with one hell of a cliff hanger that left me in dire need for more. I'm also dying to see how Karin redeems Lucien.

So, what are you guys up to?

*Guest Post & Giveaway* with Stephanie Chong

WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD by Stephanie Chong

Publisher: Harlequin/MIRA
Release Date: August 23, 2011
Series: Company of Angels Book 1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
368 Pages

Fledgling guardian angel and yoga teacher Serena St. Clair dares enter Devil’s Paradise nightclub on a mission – to retrieve the wayward Hollywood “It Boy” she’s assigned to protect. But she’s ambushed by the club’s owner, Archdemon Julian Ascher. The most powerful demonic entity in Los Angeles, Julian is handsome as sin, a master of temptation who loves nothing more than corrupting pleasure-seeking humans. He won’t release the lost soul Serena is supposed to guard. Unless she accepts his dangerous wager…

After the disastrous way his human life ended, Julian vowed that no woman would get the better of him again. Yet this sexy-sweet angel, smelling of fresh ocean air and happiness, triggers centuries-old feelings. Now, their high-stakes game of seduction, where angels fall from grace and where demons fear to tread, will lead them either to an eternity in hell…or a deliciously hot heaven.

*********************************************************

Hi Everyone! Please join me in welcoming debut paranormal romance author Stephanie Chong to Lovin' Me Some Romance!

About the Author: (From Author's Website) Stephanie worked as a lawyer at a top-tier Canadian firm and completed five university degrees before landing her dream job: romance novelist. Her degrees include a J.D. and a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto, and a Master’s in Creative Writing from Oxford University. When she’s not writing, Stephanie enjoys yoga, traveling and outdoor adventures. She lives in Vancouver with her husband and their pug, Dexter.

Guest Post:

Why the sudden clamor for angel-themed paranormals in today's market?

As for the angel trend in paranormal these days, I don’t think anybody can say for sure what drives any trend. My best guess is that there are a lot of writers who want to expand the paranormal genre, who are looking for something other than vampires. There are so many amazing, spectacularly outstanding vampire stories out there.

There’s another element to why I think this trend is catching on.

We live in difficult times.

The world has been sunk in a recession for several years. As I write this, the UK is reeling in the aftermath of mass riots. Drought-stricken East Africa is struggling with a famine. The environment seems to be falling apart. With the incredibly wide range of the Internet, mass tragedies hit with a harder impact than ever before. These days, I believe global events affect us all on a far more personal level than they did in the past.

Ultimately, I think the interest in the angel trend stems from people’s need to escape from the overwhelming nature of modern life, even if only for a little while. And our desire to explore the idea that there really is a reason for everything that happens.

Stories about angels and demons give us a chance to think about big concepts like redemption and forgiveness. And about resistance in the face of the greatest adversity possible: pure evil.

Was this market need taken into consideration when writing WDFTT?

No way. The conventional advice is this: do not write to catch a trend, because trends are impossible to catch.

I started writing Where Demons Fear to Tread in January 2009. At that time, there was such thing as an angel trend. There were a few angel books out there, but nothing you could identify as “a market need.”

What I did take into consideration was, as I mentioned above, the state of the world and what I want to contribute to it. Above all, I wanted to write a story that celebrates the power of love.

By the time I met my editor in October 2009, there were whisperings of an angel trend. I was extremely lucky that everything fell into place for this book. And now, here we are nearly two years later, in the middle of what you call a “clamor.” :)

Giveaway Details:

Thanks to Planned TV Arts, I have one copy of WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD to give away! Here's how to enter:

*Comment with a Valid Email Address (Entrants that do not leave an email address will be disqualified)*

**Contest Open to USA and Canada ONLY**

***Contest Closes Thursday, September 15th at Midnight U.S. Pacific Standard Time and the Winner will be Chosen by Sue Moorcroft and Announced Friday, September 16th***

Review: WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD by Stephanie Chong

Review: WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD by Stephanie Chong

Fledgling guardian angel and yoga teacher Serena St. Clair dares enter Devil’s Paradise nightclub on a mission – to retrieve the wayward Hollywood “It Boy” she’s assigned to protect. But she’s ambushed by the club’s owner, Archdemon Julian Ascher. The most powerful demonic entity in Los Angeles, Julian is handsome as sin, a master of temptation who loves nothing more than corrupting pleasure-seeking humans. He won’t release the lost soul Serena is supposed to guard. Unless she accepts his dangerous wager…

After the disastrous way his human life ended, Julian vowed that no woman would get the better of him again. Yet this sexy-sweet angel, smelling of fresh ocean air and happiness, triggers centuries-old feelings. Now, their high-stakes game of seduction, where angels fall from grace and where demons fear to tread, will lead them either to an eternity in hell…or a deliciously hot heaven.

Publisher: Harlequin/MIRA
Release Date: August 23, 2011
Review Format: ARC Edition
Genre: Paranormal Romance
368 Pages

Single Title/Series: WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD is book one in the Company of Angels Series.

Cover Thoughts: Absolutely stunning and a wonderful representation of the genre as well as the novel's contents. Love it!

Origin: I received an Advanced Review Copy from Planned Television Arts in exchange for an honest review.

My Review:

The Plot:

Fledgling Guardian Angel, Serena St. Claire, is deep into her first mission when she finds herself ensnared within the inescapable and notoriously cunning grasp of an Archdemon. Tracking her Assignee - the human she's tasked with protecting - to Devil's Paradise, a night club in the heart of Los Angeles, Serena waltzes in with the naive intention of securing her charge and leaving just as quickly. However, Devil's Paradise isn't just your run-of-the-mill nightclub. Just as its name implies, the club is the ultimate sinning ground for the devil and his minions. More accurately, its the home of an Archdemon - a demon who answers only to the Devil himself - and one who just happens to own this particular nightclub as well as all of Los Angels and Serena has just fallen prey to his unwavering focus.

For two centuries, Julian Ascher has built his demonic empire upon thousands of fallen human souls. Fueled by the rush of corruption, Julian once reveled with sinful glee as human after human fell beneath his subtle but effective whisperings of sin. With his clubs providing the perfect environment to topple even more souls into Hell, Julian has begun to find things a little too easy and perhaps a touch too bland until suddenly an angel walks into Devil's Paradise. Serena St. Claire is beauty in it's purest form. Radiating an innocence that boils his lust, Julian is obsessively determined to keep his beguiling new pet. Corrupting Serena's instinctual self-sacrificing nature, Julian twists and cajoles her into staying one week with him in Las Vegas, the devil's playground, or he'll determinedly harm her beloved brother and corruptible Assignee. While a piquing nag of guilt threatens his previously non-existent subconscious, Julian, disturbed by this strange and sudden fault in his character, finds it all the more urgent to burn out the bright light that is Serena.

Coerced into spending seven interminable days with Julian Ascher, Serena's emotions war between abject hatred and paralyzing fear. There's also a certain amount of intrigue for the Archdemon that irritatingly clouds her thoughts and worse, her judgement. Determined to never forget that a malevolent creature lies beneath Julian's masculine beauty, Serena blocks his every advance. It's not hard in the beginning. Never having been interested in Las Vegas, a frivolous playground to be sure, Serena isn't enamored with the bright lights or tinkling opulence. Nor is she overly impressed with the high end fashion that Julian had the audacity to purchase for her. Material goods never mattered to Serena when she was human and they definitely don't matter now that she's an angel. But the longer she's in Julian's company the more of an effect he has on her. Not a minute of the day or night goes by when he's not by her side, softening her will power and bending her body to his sensual pull.

Striking out again and again when trying to appeal to Serena's womanly greed for material goods, Julian rethinks his strategy with the realization that in order to get to his angel's heart, he'll have to first appeal to her mind. But the more he learns about Serena, the more Julian wishes to cherish her rather than oblige his Liege and topple her into Hell. With this thought also comes unexpected terror. Having selfishly dragged Serena to Las Vegas, Julian has unthinkingly exposed her to true evil, an evil that will think nothing of hunting her down and murdering her for the simple and pure enjoyment of crushing innocence in its truest form. For the first time in two centuries, Julian despises his own inherent evil and the havoc he has and still does cause. Believing that the only way to save Serena is by making her believe in his rejection, Julian brutally tosses her aside while he himself cripples beneath the sheer love that she freely offers while recognizing it as a love he never once earned.

The Heroine:

From the deepest heart of her core and radiating outward, Serena St. Claire is goodness. But having scrupulously toed the line as a human, Serena is even more monkish in her lifestyle as an angel. On closer scrutiny, it could be said that she's never truly lived life even when she had it firmly within her grasp. She's never loved or been even remotely spontaneous and you can just forget about reckless. Now, having died young and reincarnated into her angelic self, Serena has been offered a new shot at life but does she have the courage take it? Only the sheer force of Julian's demonic manipulation empowers Serena to finally stare that question in the face and make a choice.

The Hero:

The dark opposite to Serena's radiating light, Julian Ascher is a demon with a complex rational of sin and justice that's strangely logical. However, he's also incredibly ruthless and thinks nothing of backing Serena into an inescapable corner simply for his own selfish amusement. He's a bad a guy. Period. But thankfully, a redeemable one.

As a human, Julian once couldn't wait to help those around him. A member of the English Aristocracy, Julian endeavored proactively to help and protect his tenants but when a woman manipulated him into committing murder, Julian's angry soul sunk into the bowels of Hell. Tormented by the injustice of his human life, Julian began tormenting other damned souls and found he had a knack for it. Another being noticed this too. Soon his ability propelled him straight to the top as an Archdemon but one who never could forget that he had once sought to be the exact opposite of what he is now. Strangely vulnerable, Julian falls heavily for Serena. For the first time in two centuries, he's once again thinking of someone other than himself. But he may be too late. His wicked ways may have already prevailed but he'll commit every sin in the book if it helps him save Serena from the danger his selfishness has plunged her unwittingly into.

My Final Thoughts:

WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD embodies an interesting plot premise that shows vast promise and appeal. Unfortunately, a disappointing lack of strong worldbuilding and a heroine that exhibits one too many too-stupid-to-live moments downgrades an otherwise good read.

While readers' appetites for worldbuilding vary greatly, whether it be great or small, one always expects a least some clear understanding of the rules. Instead, I found myself trapped within a continuous stream of questions. Not to say that questions can't good but with each question, as a reader, we expect answers eventually - especially with regards to basic worldbuilding. With why and how dominating my thoughts, a strong lack of believability began to settle over my reading experience. Such distractions created a disjointed narrative flow providing more and more opportunities for me to put the book down and do something else.

In addition, the first quarter of the book is incredibly rough. Serena - young, naive and strangely without any power whatsoever - locks lips with a decidedly powerful Archdemon within pages of meeting. This is a demon who quickly twists her natural desire to protect so hatefully that I almost let the book go. I'm sorry, but unlike Serena, if an evil demon was threatening my brother's life, even if it was simply an act of manipulation, no way in Hell would I be warring with my libido over his sexy good looks. Thankfully, the author finds her groove and her scenes smooth out once Julian and Serena reach Las Vegas. In fact, there are numerous instances within the final three quarters where the author gripped me with such incredible strength that the torturous beginning soon became worthwhile.

While not the most amazing paranormal romance to hit the market, WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD shows some good promise. There's undoubtedly talent here and I'm curious to watch as this author develops.

3 Stars

The Series:

WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD
THE DEMONESS OF WAKING DREAMS - Releasing 2012

*Release Day Celebration & Giveaway* DEMON MARKED by Meljean Brook!

DEMON MARKED by Meljean Brook

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Release Date: TODAY!!!
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series: Guardians Book 7

Nicholas St. Croix is familiar with the evil of demons. After his father’s death, a demon took over his mother’s body and raised him. Six years ago, his “mother” was responsible for the disappearance of the woman he loved, and Nicholas swore he’d find her—even if he had to go to Hell and back. Except she finds him first—and with one tormented kiss, he knows she too is a demon. Now he is determined to take his revenge…

Ash is a half-demon with no memory of her past or how she got to Hell. All she knows is that Nicholas St. Croix holds the key to her identity. And though he’s clearly drawn to her, Nicholas makes no secret of his distrust of her. Yet one kiss at a time, he breaks down her defenses as they battle an array of demons and Guardians. But is Ash’s greatest enemy the man at her side?

In case you haven't noticed already, I'm a shameless die-hard fan of Meljean Brook and her Guardians series. And since today is such a happy day in VFG-Landia, I'm throwing a mini release day celebration with one giant prize in honor of the long awaited DEMON MARKED!!

Giveaway Details:

Winner to receive a $50 Gift Card to Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble - PLUS - a copy of DEMON MARKED - AND FINALLY - winner's choice of any book from Meljean Brook's Guardians Series. Here's how to enter:

*Comment with your answer to this question: Which of Meljean books had you falling in love with her as an author and why? If you haven't read Meljean Brook say so and why.*

**Comment with a Valid Email Address (Entrants that do not leave an email address will be disqualified)**

***BONUS ENTRY: After commenting, should you post and or tweet about this giveaway (and provide the link in an additional comment), you will be entered in the drawing twice.***

****Contest Open to USA Only****

*****Contest Closes Thursday, September 15th at Midnight U.S. Pacific Standard Time and the Winner will be Chosen Randomly and Announced Friday, September 16th*****

September Monthly Giveaway!

Hey Guys! As a refresher to regulars and for those that haven't participated before or are new to the blog, my monthly giveaways are not just a way to unburden my overflowing book shelves, but more importantly, it's a way to spread some love and thanks to LMSR's followers. You guys rock and your continued patronage of this blog is so very, very much appreciated.

For the month of September, I'm giving away three mini stacks of goodies for three separate winners. As usual, they'll be listed numerically, in this case they'll be Stack One, Stack Two, and Stack Three. Rank your most wanted stack to the least in the comments to enter. Here's our line up:

STACK ONE

QUEEN OF SHADOWS by Dianne Sylvan (Read Once, Good Condition) - MY REVIEW
TOUCH IF YOU DARE by Stephanie Rowe (Read Once, Good Condition) - MY REVIEW

STACK TWO

AMAZON QUEEN by Lori Devoti (NEW)
NECKING by Chris Salvatore (NEW)

STACK THREE

FADE TO BLACK by Leslie Parrish (NEW)
GHOST SHADOW by Heather Graham (NEW)

Giveaway Details:

*Leave a Comment with a List of Your Choices from Most Wanted to Least. First Drawn Winner will get their Top Pick and Second and Third to Follow*

**Must Be a Follower with a Valid Email Address (Entrants who are not followers and/or do not leave an email address will be disqualified) **

***Contest Open to US and Canada Only***

*****Contest Closes September 30th at Midnight U.S. Pacific Standard Time and Winners will be Chosen Randomly and Announced No Later than October 6th*****

Eve Langlais's BUNNY AND THE BEAR Winner!

And the winner is...

Vivaciousgold

CONGRATULATIONS!

**********************************************************

BUNNY AND THE BEAR by Eve Langlais

Publisher: Eve Langlais
Release Date: August 2011
Genre: Paranormal Romance
41,000 Words (Novella)

What’s a poor bear to do when all he wants is some sweet, bunny pie?

Bears and bunnies aren’t supposed to mix, or that’s what Chase keeps telling himself when his bouncy new neighbor won’t stay out of his business—and his mind. However, the more he gets to know his overly perky neighbor, the more he craves her—naked in his grasp—a desire worse than his addiction to honey and pie.

Miranda’s on a mission for the Furry United Coalition, and it involves secretly guarding one grumpy ol’ bear. Staying focused on the job isn’t easy when all she can think about is turning his frown upside down, a task made harder when she gets a glimpse of his passion. When she hears about his theory on woodland creatures and predators not mixing, she thinks all is lost, but she didn’t count on a bear’s curious nature—and possessive need.

When an evil force abducts Chase, Miranda unleashes her bunny in order to save him, but the revelation of her shifter side puts her in danger. Is one ornery bear enough to save her from a mad scientist? And if he does, can a bear forget her woodland creature status long enough to love her and make her his mate?

Warning: Pies were harmed in the making of this story and naughty references were made about honey that might offend some readers.

VFG's August Review Rundown, Upcoming Events & Monthly Giveaway Winners!

Welcome to the 13th edition of VampFanGirl's Monthly Review Rundown!

August Review Rundown:

4.5 Stars - A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua

4 Stars - TOUCH IF YOU DARE by Stephanie Rowe

4 Stars - QUEEN OF SHADOWS by Dianne Sylvan

August Event Recap:

While all the contest portions are of course closed, please feel free to check out the post content.

CLOSED - Guest Post with Sue Moorcroft
CLOSED - Interview with Lila DiPasqua
OPEN 'TIL MIDNIGHT, September 1st - Promo & Giveaway with Eve Langais

Upcoming September Events:

A quiet month unfortunately. Here's what I've booked so far:

September 12th - Guest Post with Stephanie Chong

August Monthly Giveaway Winners!

Finally, time for the winner announcement of my August Monthly Giveaway. Here we go:

jfort357 - Winning STACK THREE

alba - Winning STACK ONE

Tracy Smith - Winning STACK TWO

Super big thanks to all the followers who entered. And never fear, if you didn't win this giveaway, stay tuned for my September Monthly Giveaway announcement coming soon.

And that's the August Rundown everyone!