Serial Readers Challenge List

Here is my list for this Challenge. I will be adding as I go!
Link back to the host CPQ!!

Princes Trilogy by Elizabeth Hoyt:
1. The Raven Prince (book 1 read inn 2008)
2. The Leopard Prince (book 2)

Legend of the Four Soldiers by Elizabeth Hoyt:
1. To Taste Temptation (book 1)

Bridgerton by Julia Quinn:
1. The Duke and I (book 1)
2. The Viscount Who Loved Me
3. Offer From a Gentleman

The Black Dagger Brotherhood by JR Ward:
1. Dark Lover (book 1)
2. Lover Eternal
3. Lover Awakened
4. Lover Revealed
5. Lover Unbound
6. Lover Enshrined
7. Lover Avenged

The Lords of Satyr by Elizabeth Amber:
1. Nicholas
2. Raine

Midnight Breed by Lara Adrian:
1. Kiss of Midnight

Elementals by Dawn Thompson:
1. Lord of the Deep

A Seduction at Christmas by Cathy Maxwell

Winter Challenge Title: #7. A book that reminds you of Christmas

Published 2008

Pages:358

From the moment Fiona spies Holburn across the room she feels a connection. Fate is not on her side that night, she has to leave the ball immediately to help her brother and his wife flee to America. Fiona chose to stay behind. Her decision has cost her more than she expected or bargained for.


After her failed attempt to hold Holburn hostage and ransom him for 500 pounds she finds herself relying on him for her life. Holburn has promised to keep Fiona safe from the murderous Irishmen that are hell bent on pinning his murder on her. They are drawn to each other like moths to a candle. Fiona fears her past will prevent Holburn from ever being able to give her what she desires most in life.


Holburn must figure out who is trying to kill him and what better way but to draw the would be killers on to his own turf.A Seduction at Christmas had a decent story line full of deceit. Maxwell keeps you guessing to the "who dunnit" throughout. I didn't feel the passion between Fiona and Holburn though.

2009 Personal Challenge

I have committed myself to two challenges that require me to read nine books first published in 2009. In attempt to jump start my lists for these two challenges I have been searching the internet for up coming releases. I ran across a discussion about "Must Reads for 2009" on Shelfari. A fellow ROR member noted that she would be using 2009 for reading "New to me authors", so most of her books chosen wont be newly released ones. It made me think about what my reading plans are for '09. I introduced myself to several new authors in '08 through the help of fellow readers. I purchased several of these recommended books, yet they still sit on my closet shelf.

I started questioning my logic in purchasing these new to me authors but not reading them and have come to a conclusion. I have not wanted to start these series due to the number of books in them. I have had so many books come to me that I have been dying to read that I just could not see starting a new series that I know would ultimately make me put everything else aside until I completed the series.

So in conjunction with (or in addition to) the few challenges I have committed myself to I am creating my own personal challenge. In 2009 I am committing myself to reading these series:

Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward
Dark Hunter by Sherrily Kenyon
The Bridgertons by Julia Quinn
The Carpathians by Christine Feehan

These are some really long series with the exception of BDB which I believe has only five so far. I have a head start on The Bridgertons and The Carpathians as I have already read one from each.

I have to thank Beth (Carpool Queen) for creating her Serial Challenge, yes I have committed myself to it, because my personal challenge will fit in extremely well there if no where else!

The 2009 Pub Challenge

The 2009 Pub Challenge is being hosted by 1morechapter again this year.

Here are the 2009 rules:

1. Read a minimum of 9 books first published in 2009. You don’t have to buy these. Library books, unabridged audios, or ARCs are all acceptable. To qualify as being first published in 2009, it must be the first time that the book is published in your own country. For example, if a book was published in Australia, England, or Canada in 2008, and then published in the USA in 2009, it counts (if you live in the USA). Newly published trade paperbacks and mass market paperbacks do not count if there has been a hardcover/trade published before 2009. Any questions on what qualifies? Just leave a comment here, and I’ll respond with the answer.
2. No children’s/YA titles allowed, since we’re at the ‘pub.’
3. At least 5 titles must be fiction
4. Crossovers with other challenges are allowed.
5. You can add your titles as you go, and they may be changed at any time.
6. Sign up HERE using Mr. Linky.
7. Have fun reading your 2009 books!

Tentative List:

1. To Beguile a Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt (May 2009)

2. Seduced at Midnight by Jacquie D'Alessandra (Jan 2009)

3. Tempted at Midnight by Jacquie D' Alessandra (April 2009)

4. Mystic Warrior by Patricia Rice (2009)

5. To Desire a Devil by Elizabeth Hoyt (Nov. 2009)

6.

7.

8.

9.

To Taste Temptation by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title#: 11. First Published in 2008
Rating: 4 stars
Pages: 362

Back cover: Lady Emeline Gordon is the model of sophistication in London's elite social cirlces, always fashionable and flawlessly appropriate. As such, she is the perfect chaperone for Rebecca, the young sister of a successful Boston businessman and former Colonial soldier.

Samuel Hartley may be wealthy, but his manners are as uncivilized as the American wilderness he was raised in. Who wears moccasins to a grand ball? His arrogant disregard for propriety infuriates Emeline, even as his boldness excites her.

But beneath Samuel's rakish manner, he is haunted by tragedy. He has come to London to settle a score, not to fall in love. And as desperately as Emeline longs to feel this shameles man's hands upon her, to taste those same lips he uses to tease her, she must restrain herself. She is not free. But some things are beyond a lady's control...

My Review: It was no accident that Samuel rented the house next door to Lady Emeline. His business has brought him to London and to her. Samuel boldly seeks out Lady Emeline and inquires after her expertise in chaperoning his sister Rebecca for the few months that they are in town, not letting on to his hidden agenda. He fully expects to right the wrongs done six years ago, he does not expect the impact that this Lady will have on his soul.
Haunted by demons, Samuel pursues his agenda, enlisting the help of Emeline's unofficial fiance, Lord Vale. As the search for the traitor persists, Samuel finds himself falling in love with Emeline.
I was not overly fond of Emeline. Something about her personality just didn't sit well with me. It was almost as if she has been made out to be a martyr, all the men she has ever loved have left her and now she will marry a man only because it is the right thing to do. Her prickliness towards Samuel grated my nerves on more than one occasion.
To Taste Temptation has a Romeo and Juliet feel to it...Lady Emeline is the daughter, sister, and mother to Earls while Samuel is a base born American with money. A match between these two would be a huge faux pas in society's eyes. I enjoyed the story. I really liked Samuel's character and his fight with the demons that could ultimately destroy him if he allows it.
I really liked the Iron Heart tale.

Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas

Rating: 5 stars
Title#: 6. Book by Lisa Kleypas
Pages: 368
Published: 2006

Back Cover: Easily the shyest Wallflower, Evangeline Jenner stands to become the wealthiest, once her inheritance comes due. Because she must first escape the clutches of her unscrupulous relatives, Evie has approached the rake Viscount St. Vincent with a most outrageous proposition: marriage!
Sebastian's reputation is so dangerous that thirty seconds alone with him will ruin any maiden's good name. Still, this bewitching chit appeared, unchaperoned, on his doorstep to offer her hand. Certainly an aristocrat with a fine eye for beauty could do far worse.
But Evie's proposal comes with a condition: no lovemaking after their wedding night. She will never become just another of the dashing libertine's callously discarded broken hearts- which means Sebastian will simply have to work harder at his seductions... or perhaps surrender his own heart for the very first time in the name of true love.

Review: This is the third book in the Wallflower series. I have heard that it is by far the best of all. I wanted to be different so I went into reading this book with the thoughts that I thought It Happened One Autumn was the best and there was no way that Devil in Winter would top it. Boy was I wrong, I have fallen into the hordes of people who all believe that Devil in Winter is the best one!! After what Sebastian attempted in It Happened One Autumn I could not believe that he was going to be the hero of this book... surely Evie would come to her senses before reaching Gretna Green. I enjoyed watching Sebastian struggle with the unknown feelings and being brought to the brink of insanity by sweet little Evie. Who would have thought that this "tangle-tongue" mild tempered woman had it in her to tame the most notorious rake in London. I absolutely loved this book!

I must point out that I have read three books for this challenge and all of them have been top notch 5 star ratings... I must be on a roll this month!!

Honor's Splendour by Julie Garwood

Rating: 5 stars

Title#: 1. Readers Choice

Pages: 374

Back Cover: In the feuding English court, gentle Lady Madelyne suffered the cruel whims of her ruthless brother Baron Louddon. Then, in vengeance for a bitter crime, Baron Duncan of Wexton- The Wolf- unleashed his warriors against Louddon's domain. Exquisite Madelyne was the prize he captured... but when he gazed upon the proud beauty, he pledged to protect her with his life. In his rough-hewn castle, Duncan proved true to his honor. But when at last their noble passion conquered them both, she surrendered with all her soul. Now, for love, Madelyne would stand fast... as bravely as her Lord, the powerful Wolf who fought for ...HONOR'S SPLENOUR.

Review: From the moment Madelyne warms Duncan's feet she is bound to him, but Duncan is using her as a pawn in his feud with Louddon. Madelyne has practiced hiding her emotions from all, seething inside she appears to be very serene on the outside. Duncan has been the only one to see past her barriers to the insecure little girl that hides beneath. He promises that he will not harm or dishonor her, yet he uses her for his own purposes.

Honor's Splendour was funny, sweet, and passionate. This was definitely a page turner and one I could not put down. I think it is by far one of the best books that I have read this year and by this author.

A Pirate of Her Own by Kinley MacGregor

Winter Challenge #10 Read a book that has a Viking or Pirate in it!

RATG 1. Pirate or Viking: A Pirate Of Her Own by Kinley Macgregor
1999
371 pages

Rating: 5 stars

Back Cover: Few know Morgan Drake's true name- but many fear the Sea Wolf, the scourge of the ocean, a fearless pirate who frees impressed American sailors from British vessels. Mow a beautiful reporter is willing to risk her life, her innocence, and her heart to reveal the secrets that Morgan is determined to protect at any cost...
A headstrong and courageous young woman in a man's world, Serenity James knows she is barely tolerated in her father's newspaper office. An exclusive story about the dreaded Sea Wolf, however, will earn her the respect she so fervently desires. But she never expected to be kidnapped by the sexy and dangerous brigand whose bold exploits have fired her imagination- or to discover the adventure she's always longed for in Morgan Drake's passionate caress.

My Thoughts: This was an absolute delight to read. I could not put it down and was sorely disappointed to have it end. Serenity is definitely headstrong, her father has often asked why her mother gave her the name Serenity and said that she should have named her Incense. Her greatest trait is that of being able to antagonize a person who is ready to strangle her. These traits do not fade in the face of Morgan Drake, who she should fear to her very last breath.
Serenity and Morgan butt heads from the moment they meet in her father's newspaper office. Morgan is at a loss as to how the woman is constantly able to back him out of a room and close the door in his face before he realizes which way is up. The banter between these two is hilarious. I actually marked a few pages to go back to this time around!! Serenity's lecture on why woman are equal to men and her response to Morgan's comment " why God made women the fairer sex who faint at the slightest scare" was priceless. I have to say that it is a must read for all of you readers out there that love Pirates!!!

The Peacemaker by Lori Copeland

Inspirational
published 2005
298 pages

I read The Peacemaker for the Read Around the Genre challenge. I had a hard time finding a title that fell under Inspirational as this category is definitely one that I don't frequent. On vacation on year I was need of a book and the resort just so happened to have books available for check out. I ran across a Lori Copeland title and really enjoyed it. So when I came across her while searching the inspirational authors and titles I figured I would give this one a try.

The Peacemaker is the first in Copeland's Men of the Saddle series.

Wynne Elliot is hell bent on finding Cass Claxton and shooting on the spot for stealing her blind and leaving her at the altar. She takes off across the country to River Run Missouri only to have the stagecoach she is traveling on robbed 5 miles outside of town. She has had it with men, you can't trust any of them! When Beau and Cole come up to aid the displaced travelers she pulls a gun on them and ultimately ends up making a complete fool of herself. She unknowingly excepts help from Cass's family.
When Cole finds out what Wynne is really up to he tells himself that he is only following the pain-in-the- you know what to prevent her from killing his baby brother. Why should he help out this spitfire, she is liable to get them both killed.
Reminding herself of one of the Ten Commandments, Thou shall not kill, she is constantly at battle with herself and asking God's forgiveness. Cole is asking the good Lord for enough strength to do what is right and not abandon this "Addlebrained woman" on the side of the road without the means or skills to survive.

While not my normal cup of tea, I did enjoy this book. My interest is definitely piqued enough to want to continue with the series eventually.
Rating 4... I know it is inspirational, but no where near enough passion or steam for me!

Some Like It Wicked by Teresa Medeiros

I had not planned on reading this book so soon. I went out of town for Thanksgiving. I allowed my husband to do all the driving because I am such a good wife, but doing so I ran out of reading material. I knew I would finish the book that I was reading before I would actually be heading home. The bookstores having the nerve to be closed on Thanksgiving gave me only one option... the grocery store. Let's face it, there really isn't much of a selection there. I was thrilled to find not only one book but two books that I knew I wanted to read, however neither of these two books fit into my challenge books...which I was seriously hoping to find! Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts is part of a trilogy so I am saving that one until Jan. 1 so that I can include it in the Serial Challenge. This left me reading Some Like it Wicked. I had every intention of reading this book eventually... so many of my fellow ROR challengers are reading this title for the Winter challenge I figured I would go ahead and get it in. Its not going to count towards any of my challenges but it was fun read anyway.

Some Like It Wicked:
Catriona was sent to live with her uncle by her brother after their parents were murdered. She has dreamed of returning to her brother and the Highlands ever since. She has suffered the abuse dished out by her cousin Alice for 10 long years when she is forced to take her life into her own hands. Her uncle has told her that he is doubling her dowry and will give her over to the next man that comes through the door asking for her hand in marriage. Lord Eddingham overhears this argument and has told Catriona under no certain terms that he plans on coming back and talking to her uncle and receiving her and her handsome dowry. The very idea is utterly reprehensible.
Catriona heads to Newgate to find Simon Wescott, a man who she fell in love with at the very young age of 16. She has followed Mr. Wescott's career in the newspaper and has the belief that he is a hero. She has dreamed of this man for 5 years, now she must bargain herself and her dowry to him in order to escape her uncle and his family and finally find her long lost brother.

I really enjoyed reading this and look forward to reading about Connor Kincaid in Some Like It Wild.

Readers of Romance Winter "08 Challenge

Winter Challenge December 1 - February 28
You can find the directions/FAQ for this challenge on the ROR Blog.
NOW FOR THE LIST...
1. Reader’s Choice Place any book here
2. Book that was read and Reviewed in the Fall Challenge
3. Read a book that has a “D” word in it for December
4. Read a book that has an arranged marriage or Marriage of Convenience (AAR Special Titles could be a big help!)
5. For Valentines Day, read a book that has love, kiss or heart in the title
6. Read a book by Lisa Kleypas
7. A book that makes you think about Christmas
8. A title that has 4 words in it
9. Read a story that has a military or civil servant (firefighter/cop/fbi/clan chief/commander) in it –can be any genre
10. Read a book that has a Viking or Pirate in it!
11. Pick a book that was first published in 2008
12. Read a series (Harlequin or Sillehoutte)
13. Read a book that the author has 3 names (ie Susan Elizabeth Phillips/ Karen Marie Moning)
14. For the New Year-Pick a book that has been in your TBR pile for a long time --Out w/ the old in w/ the new!
15. Read a book that has a “W” word for Winter

♥My Book List♥
1. Leaving my options open
2. The Leopard Prince or To Taste temptation by E. Hoyt (reviewed by Cindy W)
3. The Duke and I by Julia Quinn or The Duke by Galen Foley
4. The Gift by Julie Garwood (I think this is the one that I will be reading)
5. Dark Lover or Fantasy Lover
6. Devil in Winter
7. A Seduction at Christmas
8. Flowers From The Storm
9. My Lord and Spymaster by Joanna Bourne or Beloved Enemy by Jane Feather
10. A Pirate of her Own by Kinley MacGregor
11. A Seduction at Christmas by Cathy Maxwell
12. Possessed by the Highlander by Terri Brisbin Harlequin Historical
13. My Favorite Mistress by Tracy Anne Warren or Dark Lover by JR Ward
14. Untouched by Anna Campbell maybe
15. Viking Warrior by Connie Mason

Fall Challenge '08

I just realized that I never posted an actual post about the Fall Readers of Romance Challenge. I have completed the challenge so this is not going to be the normal post about the challenge.



Here is my completed list:

1. Title that reminds you of a fairytale Charming the Prince
2. Book based on the cover: It Happened One Autumn
3. Read a book that was read and reviewed on the blog in the Summer Book Challenge: Mesmerized
4. Read a book from a genre you have not read yet (or if you have read all genres, read from the genre you read the least): The Bounty Hunter and the Heiress (western &Harlequin)
5. Read a book that has an “N” word in the title for November: A Highlander Never Surrenders
6. Read an author that last name or first name starts with "S" for September: The Brat
7. Read a book by Johanna Lindsey: A Man To Call My Own
8. For Halloween…. Read a book that is "spooky": Realm Of Shadows
9. Title with an address or a place in it: Lost Duke of Wyndham
10. Title that has a name in it: Laird of the Mist
11. Read a Series Book: Mystic Rider
12. Read a Series Book: The Dream Thief
13. Read a New (to you) author: Desperate Duchess
14. Title that has an animal in it: The Raven Prince
15. Title that is 2 words:Highland Warrior

It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas

#2. Book chosen for the cover

Rating 4.5

The girls are back again in the second of the Wallflowers books. Lillian is the next in line to find a husband. From the moment she set eyes on Lord Westcliff there has been animosity bordering on hate between the two. Lord Westcliff thinks that Lillian is an ilreputable American husband hunter and Lillian thinks that Lord Westcliff is an unfeeling, stuffy, know-all. Could this actually be love at first sight? Lillian is head strong and hates to be told what to do. She is constantly at odds with Lord Westcliff who is trying to dictate what Lillian should do and how she should behave. These two are thrown together in some of the best and most scandalous ways. There is a perfume aphrodisiac, could this be why Lord Westcliff cannot control himself whenever he gets around Lillian?
There is a lot of humor in this book. Once I finally had the time to sit down and enjoy getting engrossed in Lillian's story I could not put it down.

Bookworm Award

DeSeRt RoSe awarded me with the Bookworm Award!! Isn't it lovely. Thank you so very much DeSeRt RoSe!!

I can appearantly share this with others, this is how it works:

Open the book closest to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56. Write out the fifth sentence, as well as two to five sentences following there.

The book closest to me is Some Like It Wicked by Teresa Medeiros. I am in the middle of it and only put it down to check my emails and see whats been happening at Shelfari while I have been out of town.

Page 56. Sentences 5-10:

"Why should it require me to trade one set of shackles for another?"

"Because I don't have the means to hire you outright. But I do have a very generous dowry." She lowered her eyes, her thick lashes casting a shadow on her cheeks. "A dowry that's just been doubled by my uncle in his desperation to be rid of me."

"Was this before or after he found out you were going to Newgate to look for a husband?"

Now I have to tag 5 of my fellow bloggers!

1. Cindy W

2. Beth (Carpool Queen)

3.Roberta

4.Heather

5.Melanie

Twilight...continued?!

Ok, so I had to wait until Saturday night to talk about this movie with another avid Twilight fan. My daughter's best friend, the one who kept insisting that I read this series, spent the night. We spent a few minutes discussing her thoughts about it. Before telling you what she thought about it let me tell you she has probably read this series in its entirety 11 times. She can probably quote any line from the books that you need.
I asked my dear little friend if she liked it, in Robyn's 12 yr old teeny bopper way she yelled out NO! She absolutely hated this movie, as did the rest of her family. So we started talking in depth about what she hated and if there was anything at all that she liked about it. Here are some of her thoughts...
1. The first kiss was horrible. Edward would never have approached Bella that way...by saying "I want to try something" and he would not have been so forceful in his actions to avoid her.
2. Everything was too rushed.
3. Bella would never have screamed out the way that she did, she would have been stronger than what they portrayed her to be in the fight scene with James.
4. She loved James
5. She liked the baseball game
6. The kitchen scene was stupid... "her name is Bella, she must be Italian"
7. Alice coming up to Bella saying "we are going to be the best of friends", she said this was corny but in a way it was true to Alice's personality.
She basically hated everything about this movie except for James.

Twilight

I am one of the people who couldn't wait for this movie to come out. Had I not been sick all week I would have been at the Midnight showing last night. I waited and made a day of it with my daughter, sister and mother. I loaned my book out to my daughter's friend so I was not able to reread it before the movie was released. If you have not seen the movie yet you may not want to read my thoughts on it, I may ruin it for you. I have waited a whole four hours before getting on and posting about Twilight, and the entire four hours I have been thinking about the movie... what I liked and what I didn't like.

It was a good movie, but I have to say that I was a little disappointed. I know that the movie is never as good as the book, with the exception of the Harry Potter movies, but I am really upset with some of the stuff that they cut out and how they portrayed some of the scenes. I think most of my problems came within the first half of the movie. If I had not read the book it may have been different and then again it could have been worse for me. I thought that they jumped around a lot which led to confusion. They did not lay a very good base for Bella and Edward's relationship. I almost yelled out in the movie theater with disappointment at how the movie has Edward showing Bella how he looks in the sun. In the book this was a very sweet and romantic day for them, not so in the movie. This could be my faulty memory, but things took place out of order. Not a good thing for me!!! I think that they should have showed a little more of Edward sneaking into Bella's room at night. And what about Bella's Lullaby... never mentioned. I guess this could have been what Edward was playing at the piano, but it did not play a big part in the movie. Oh and don't get me started on Edward's ability to hear every one's thoughts. This is mentioned a couple of times but it doesn't really show up as often as it did in the book.

I hated that they completely cut out the friendship built between Alice and Bella. Alice was a big part of the book, she welcomed Bella with open arms. They have very little interaction at all throughout the entire movie. Rosalee did a stand up job of being her bitchy hateful self. You really don't see much of any of the secondary characters. I really wish that I had reread the book before watching this movie... maybe it would have helped me with how big or how small their roles were. I have to say they were almost obsolete. How often was Jacob actually in Twilight? I think he made 3 appearances throughout the movie. My daughter who has yet to read the book asked me in the middle of the movie "Wasn't Jacob a bigger part of the book?"

These are a few things that I wish could have been done differently:

1. Edward and Bella in the clearing with the sun.

2. More interaction with Alice...hello where is prom night dress up?

3. More of the private time in Bella's room

4. Less time devoted to James' antics before showing up at the baseball game. These things were only hinted at in the book... never discussed at length so why did they feel the need to show it? (no it is not in bloody detail but those scenes could have been devoted to Edward and Bella or the other characters)

5. Charlie and Bella interaction was only so-so.

You would think that I absolutely hated this movie by the way that I have carried on here. That is not the case. I did like it. It just was not as good as the book and I can't say that I would run right out and buy the book had I not already read it. The scenery was beautiful. They did an excellent job casting everyone. Edward took a little time getting use to, but I think it had to do with how his hair was standing up and his thick eyebrows, other than those two minor things he was exactly what I pictured while reading. The second half of the movie was definitely much better than the first. The baseball game was AWESOME!! The encounter with James was good. These things played really close to what I read in the book and I like that sort of thing!

I am not sorry that I ran right out and watched it and when it comes out on video you can bet your bottom that I will be adding it to my collection. I am a sucker for Edward and Bella! I will also run out and watch the next ones, because they did of course set you up for New Moon.

All in all if I were rating this movie like I do my books I would give it a 4, even with all my hangups!!! It had the potential to be sooooo much better though!

A Man to Call My Own by Johanna Lindsey

#7. A book by Johanna Lindsey

Rating: 4 stars

Back Cover:
A Man To Call My Own introduces us to a charismatic pair of twins, Amanda and Marian Laton, who, after the sudden death of their father, are sent to live with their aunt on a sprawling Texas Ranch. As the twin sisters- on of whom is nasty, the other nice- both find themselves pursing Chad Kinkaid, the cowboy son of a neighboring ranching family, LIndsey skillfully charts the intoxicating course of first love- and all of love's attendant twists and turns- that end in one of the Laton twins' winning the heart of a man she can call her own.

My Review:
Marion and Amanda are identical twins with completelydifferent personalities. Amanda has been spoiled so completely that Marion disguises herself under large spectacles, dowdy clothes, and tight buns so that she can become invisible to everyone else leaving Amanda the center of attention and no competition for any of the beaus coming to call.After the sudden death of their father the girls are sent to live with their aunt in Texas. Their father's will stipulates that neither girl will be able to obtain their inheritance before getting married and that their aunt must approve of the marriage or their won't be an inheritance.Amanda was coniving, deceitful and just plain mean. Poor Marion was always trying to smooth or prevent the ruffled feathers that Amanda left in her wake.Chad Kinkaid has been helping Aunt Kathleen out on her ranch since a big blow out with his father sent him packing the night of a huge storm. He is sent to fetch the twins from station, only to find that they have already traveled on towards the ranch. Upon meeting up with Amanda and Marion, he has an instant attraction to the beautiful Amanda. He refuses to act on it until he can get her back to the ranch and see if the feeling is mutual.
A Man To Call My Own had a pretty decent plot. I liked it for the most part. I got tired of Amanda's antics and Marion's refusal to change and tell the truth of the matter. I really dislike what happens with the girls inheritance. This was a little much. Not wanting to give anything away, I cannot delve into that whole situation. This was an O.K read. I think that I might have enjoyed it a little more had I actually read it instead of listening to it on audio. (The reader wasn't bad, I just hated the men's voices)

Desperate Duchesses by Eloisa James

13. Read a New (to you) author.

Rating 4.5 stars

I have waited to long to post anything of significance on this title. I am having a hard time remembering the names of the characters, so I will have to dig the book back out and find them later.

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

Hosted by CPQ

1. Read books in series/trilogies/related by author. (Julie Garwood’s Lion’s Lady, Castles, The Gift are related.) For a series to count you must read each book in that series during this calendar year. (Rereads and audio books welcome!) If you previously started a series and do not wish to re-read, then only the titles read after 01/01/09 will count towards your total books read. You will not however get "credit" for total series read. Only series started and finished in 09 will count toward the prize for # of series read. For example I started Lynsay Sands Argeneau series this fall. For me to get credit for all 9 books I will need to re-read the first 3 sometime in 09. The series does not have to be read in order, or in succession to "count"! (so if I read #4-9 this spring and next fall re-read #1-3 then I get full credit. Otherwise ...I only get credit for the 5 books read, but not for reading the entire series.) I think I just made that about as clear as mud.

2. The Challenge will begin January 1st and last until December 31st 2009.

3. Post your list on your blog and link it back to this post. Please comment to this post when your link is up. Your list is not something, you need to decide in advance. Please add as you go!

4. Please rate and review each title on your blog. When you do so, please label it SRC or Serial Readers Challenge so we can all read your reviews and maybe be inspired to try a new series for ourselves.

5. There will be prizes! Woo Hoo! Some of the prizes may be simple online trophies, and some will be book give-aways. (Titles to be determined) Prizes will be given for most books read, most # series read, most pages read, and some maybe at random! (my favorite kind!! Yay!)

6. To wrap up the challenge next winter, comment to this post linking your wrap-up post by December 31! Prizes will be awarded January 2010!

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The Bounty Hunter and the Heiress by Carol Finch

#4 Read a book from a genre you have not read yet
Rating: 5 stars

After bouncing around the genres trying to find something to read for this, I finally settled on a Western and for an added bonus a Harlequin. I haven't read Westerns in a while, with the exception of the Summer Challenge when I read Julie Garwood's For the Roses and the second set of books in that series. I have never read a Harlequin romance novel. I really don't know why I have thumbed my nose at the Harlequin series for so long... maybe it has something to do with the cover art. I am (blushing and hanging my head) one of those people who will buy or turn down a book strictly because of the cover. I am happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book!!
Eva is a strong willed woman who thumbs her nose to societies dictates, refusing to conform and has been labeled an eccentric. She is hell bent on tracking down the shyster (Gordon) who deceived her sister,Lydia, and tried to turn her against Eva. She sets out to hire the highly capable and well known Bounty Hunter J.D Raven. Raven refuses to take on the case, no matter how much money this little woman says she will pay. He has just lost his beloved horse Buck to a shoot out while gathering up three outlaws for the Denver sheriff. He wants nothing more than to return to his secluded cabin in the mountains and start training another horse to take Buck's place. Eva poses as Raven's wife in order to travel with him on the stage coach without rousing the other occupants' suspicions. The entire journey Raven is still refusing to help Eva out, but can't help feel responsible for her the second the come under gun fire at two different stops along the stage line.
These two are at a constant battle of wits and banter constantly, but not to a point where you get tired of it. It is quite funny how they are constantly ruffling each others feathers. Their attraction is strong... which seems odd to Eva because she has sworn men off for the rest of her life, so how is this Half breed fast becoming the man of her dreams?
The Bounty Hunter and the Heiress is one funny, action pact, passion filled story!

The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn

#9. Title with an address or a place in it (city, state, river, lake, cottage)

Rating: 4 stars

I have only read a few of Julia Quinn's books, so I can't say what I was really expecting. I liked this book, but I there was something that didn't sit well with me and I just can't put my finger on it at the moment. Grace, the heroine, was just an average character. I admired her loyalty to Thomas and the grace in which she was able to deal with the antagonist (dowager Duchess) of the story. At the beginning I was a little miffed by her, she seemed really weak. She did end up growing on me a little more througout the story. Jack was a stronger character full of wit and charm. He definitely had his father's traits that the dowager Duchess seemed so fond of, just not in Jack who was constantly using them on her. I was brought to tears with the meeting between Jack and his aunt Mary. I didn't care for the epilogue. I will however pick up Mr. Cavendish, I presume and finish reading about this family. This was definitely not my favorite JQ book.

Charming the Prince by Teresa Medeiros

Fall Challenge #1. Title that reminds you of a fairy tale.
Rating: 5 stars

Willow is getting a new mother, her father a new bride with a large dowry. This story really did have a bit of a Cinderella feel to it. The new mother comes with a package of six horrid children who Willow is made nurse maid to. She is ridiculed and shunned, eventually losing her father's affection to the little monsters. So when Lord of Elsinore's man shows up asking for Willow's hand in marriage she eagerly accepts sight unseen.
Lord of Elsinore, Bannar the Bold, is a tried and true war hero, a favorite of King Edward. He has never feared more for his life than he does in his own home with his 12, yes that's right 12, children chomping at his heels at every turn. He has taken to locking himself in the tower for peace and sanity. He is desperate and sends his man in search of non-attractive wife and mother for his brats!
The shenanigans that the kids pull... Oh my! It's a wonder the man has not killed everyone of them or at least given them a good throttling! Willow is not what Bannor wanted at all! He uses his children to run her off, so he does not have to break the news to her himself and damage her pride beyond repair... you would think that this is in some way a noble thing to do...NOT hardly!
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the Cinderella-ish feel to it. The things the kids do made me want to scream. I actually teared up a couple of times while reading this book, my heart just went out to Willow!

The Brat by Lynsay Sands

Fall Challenge #6. Read a book by an author with a "S" name for September.

Read around the genre challenge-Historical

340 pages

Rating: 5 stars

Back Cover: WHO WOULD MARRY...

All the knights had heard tales of Lady Murie, King Edward III's goddaughter and much feted favorite. It was said she was stunningly beautiful, with bright blue eyes, golden hair and a sweet smile. It was also said that the king had doted on the girl and spoiled her rotten. Despite his need, when Sir Balan saw her howling and sobbing, Murie was the last person he wanted to wed.

...THE BRAT?

But all that glitters is not gold, and sometimes diamonds look very, very rough. There was more to Murie than met the eye, and Balan soon learned that he'd be lucky indeed to deserve such a bride. Yet he was not the only one to discern the truth, and the other hopeful hubby was not quite as honorable. A plot was afoot. Soon would come a reckoning, a time to show who was chivalrous, who was a cad... and who had won the love of a heart unspoiled.

My Review:

This is only my second book by Lynsay Sands and I enjoyed it more than the first. I just loved Murie who is not what the rumors say she is. She is rather sweet and compassionate once you get passed her facade. She cracked me up through out the book with her silly superstitions. These silly superstitions were also endearing. She manages to use and to place with them on a number of occasions. The wedding night had me rolling it was so comical. I really don't know what to say about Balan except that he is the big strong silent type! The passion between these two was hot, they couldn't seem to keep their clothes on, but it was not overwhelming. The suspenseful part (someone trying to kill Balan) through me for a loop too. I can't say much more than that with out giving it away.

This was a light and easy read that kept me turning page after page and is the only book thus far in the Fall Challenge that only took a day to read. I will definitely be looking for more books by Lynsay Sands!

Mesmerized by Candace Camp

Back Cover:

HER CROSS TO BEAR

All her life, Olivia Moreland has denied her clairvoyant abilities, working instead to disprove the mediums that flock to London. But when Stephen, Lord St. Leger, requests her help in investigating an alleged psychic, she can't ignore the ominous presence she feels within the walls of his ancient estate. Nor can she ignore the intimate connection she feels to Stephen, as if she has somehow known him before...

HIS GIFT TO TREASURE

The last time he'd lived in Blackhope Hall, Stephen had watched as his elder brother claimed both the family title and the woman he loved. Now, following his brother's death, Stephen reluctantly returns home and finds his family ensconced in scandal. Who is behind his brother's murder--a dark spirit or the psychic who claims to have channeled it? And what is it about the psychic investigator Olivia Moreland that awakens his long-dormant passion?

As they search for answers, Stephen and Olivia discover that the only way to fight a powerful evil is with a powerful love...

My Thoughts: I chose Mesmerized from the list of reviewed books during the Summer Readers of Romance challenge. I honestly could have read this book for the "Spooky" selection. Candace Camp is a new to me author, saying that I think I have found another author that I will have to pick up frequently.

I was totally gripped from the beginning with the shock to Olivia's system when she first lays eyes on Stephen, him experiencing the same shock. Olivia was totally offended by Stephen, who seems to have lost all of his manners while living in the Western United States. Stephen ends up hiring Olivia to investigate a medium who has her clutches in his mother.

They end up spending quite a bit of time together researching the "lost souls" of Blackhope Hall, all the while the connection between the two is growing and the tension could be cut with a knife.

I have to say that I think is probably the best paranormal book that I have read in a while. I was completely caught up in the ghosts and seances, my skin was crawling. I loved the flashbacks in time to another couple and their forbidden love. I loved this book!!

I do have a few hang ups with the description on the back cover though:

1. I don't know that Olivia really had any clairvoyant abilities, at least it did not seem that she did.

2. Rodrick's, Stephen's brother, death was not really explained at all. We don't know what caused his death. There was never any mention to trying to find his murderer throughout the novel. Rodrick did speak through the medium several times, often complaining of the unrest of all the souls trapped in Blackhope Hall, but never of his death.

Rating: 5

Frustrated

We bought my daughter an Ipod last year. She had it for less than a month when it started acting up. The darn thing would only play 30 seconds of any song. It didn't matter where we got the music from, whether Itunes, a CD, or another music website, they all did the same thing. I called Apple about it and they said that I needed to take it into an Apple store to have it fixed. Of course my daughter was heading to spend the summer with her dad so I asked if he could get it done while she was up there. It was never taken in. She somehow managed to get it working properly without having to go in. Well it kept happening and she kept figuring out how to get it to work... then came the time when she could no longer get it to work. My husband and I went out and bought her the Zune. This has been a wonderful player for her. We have had no problems and it actually holds more for a little less.
My husband, being the sweetheart that he is, took the kids out and bought me one for Mothers Day. I had been talking about wanting something to download books to. With my new car having a MP3 player jack it would work great when the kids decided that they wanted to watch movies in the back (fortunately the novelty has worn off). A MP3 player for downloadable books would work for my gym workouts as well. To my frustration the Microsoft Zune is not compatible with any book formats. It keeps telling that it is not from the Zune store and therefore is not compatible. I am wishing now that I had taken it back and got another IPod. The only reason I really wanted it for was the books and now I cant even use it for that. Occasionally I can find a book on CD that I can upload to the computer and transfer over to my Zune, which is great, but it is not often. I also worry about Copy Right laws. I have heard from some people that it is technically illegal.
I just found my Zune in my desk collecting dust. I added some more music to it, maybe I will eventually start using it. Right now it is a waste of $200.

Realm of Shadows by Shannon Drake

Fall Challenge #8. For Halloween a Spooky book.

Reading Around the Genres: Vampire

396 pages

Rating: 4 stars

Realm of Shadows is the fourth in Shannon Drake's Vampire series. I unfortunately started with the second in the series and have been bouncing around. All of them have been really good. I do however recommend reading them in order if possible, there are few characters that show up consistently throughout the series!

Tara has traveled to France to visit with her cousin, Ann, and her ailing grandfather Jaques. Ann tells Tara that she believes their grandfather is losing his mind. He is obsessed with an ongoing archeological dig in their little village outside of Paris. Jaques convinces Tara to wonder down into the crypt to gain as much information as possible from the professor in charge of the dig.

She comes face to face with one of the diggers at the exact moment they hear a blood curdling scream. The digger, Brent Malone, runs back towards the newly discovered coffin while Tara runs in the opposite direction fearing for her life. Everywhere she turns she runs into Brent Malone. Her grandfather is convinced that there are evils that go bump in the night and is eagerly trying to convince Tara into believing also, he has help now... Brent Malone.

I have to say that this was not one of Shannon Drake's best books, especially not for this series. There were a few editting issues that distracted me a little, no big deal in the grand scheme of things. I think that SD tried to incorporate too many characters and side plots, all having a great deal to do with the story line, but it made the story lag in areas. I hated the Epilogue... I understand that you want to know what is happening with the characters and tie everybody in, but it just seemed kind of dumb. What it lacked in romance it definitely made up in suspense and spookiness. On a more positive note, it was a page turner and I was always engrossed in the story. I would recommend reading Realm of Shadows, it is just not as highly recommended as When Darkness Falls and Deep Midnight.

Mystic Rider by Patricia Rice

Rating: 5 Stars!!
384 pages
Paranormal Romance

Back cover:
Chantal Deveau has applied her musical gift to writing impassioned anthems for the French Revolution. But now that the mob has imprisoned her family, she seeks to buy their freedom with her one valuable possession: a jeweled cup. When a tall, dark stranger enters her home and demands she give him her prize, her outrage is nothing compared to her powerful sensual response to his presence...and her startling conviction that their lives ware irrevocably entwined.
Ian recognizes Chantal as the intended mate revealed to him in a vision long ago. But even he is astounded by the lightning-swift attraction he feels fro a woman not of his world. Now he must choose between duty and desire- and open his heart to possibilities that even he could never have forseen.
My Thoughts:
This is the second book in the Mystic Isle series. I hate that I had to wait a year in between reading the first one, Mystic Guardian, and this one. PR did an exceptional job again!
For some reason while reading Mystic Guardian I did not picture Ian as such a hunk... he seemed more, I don't know nerdy. I was pleasantly surprised when my first thoughts about this man were proved totally wrong.
Ian is Aleynn's sky rider, he is able to read minds and tell the future. He has seen his amacara while searching the sky for the missing chalice. He believes the Gods are telling him that he must leave the island to retrieve the chalice and bring home his intended mate.
He arrives in France during the revolution. He fears for his mate, Chantal. There is an instant pull between these two. The sparks fly almost immediately. In order to protect his amacara Ian must save her family. His life has just become a lot more complicated than he had inticipated. Aelynns are not allowed to speak of there homeland nor are they allowed to interfere with the "Others". Ian must find a way to convince his amacara to leave her home and her family, find the chalice which seems to have a life of it's own, and capture Murdoch ( who was previously thought to have had his powers stripped and was banned from Aelynn).
Mystic Rider was chop full of passion and action. There was plenty of fighting without taking away from the story. Chantal was another strong heroine equally paired with a strong hero. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait until next summer for the release of Mystic Warrior.

AAR Top 100

After sitting down and reviewing the titles listed in the AAR Top 100 list, I have found:

that I have read 10
I have on my TBR shelf (at home) 2
I have ordered from PBS 2

I have a long ways to go to complete the full 100.

AAR Top 100

I am going to try and read as many of these as possible... I think that this is another challenge, at least it will be a personal challenge. Pink= read, blue= own/TBR, Purple= on order from PBS! I have a long ways to go, but hopefully I will be able to complete the list within a year.

1. Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase

2. Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas

3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

4. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

5. Flowers From the Storm by Laura Kinsale

6. Slightly Dangerous by Mary Balogh

7. Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas

8. Bet Me by Jennifer Cruise

9. Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Cruise

10. The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn

11. Lover Awakened by JR Ward

12. Mr. Impossible by Loretta Chase

13. The Duke and I by Julia Quinn

14. It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

15. Lord Perfect by Loretta Chase

16. Romancing Mr. Bridgerton by Julia Quinn

17. The Bride by Julie Garwood

18. Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard

9. Naked in Death by JD Robb

20. A Summer to Remember by Mary Balogh

21. Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

22. Dream Man by Linda Howard

23. The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt

24. Paradise by Judith McNaught

25. As You Desire by Connie Brockway

26. MacKenzie’s Mountain by Linda Howard

27. Dark Lover by JR Ward

28. The Secret by Julie Garwood

29. Son of the Morning by Linda Howard

30. Lover Eternal by JR Ward

31. Devil’s Bride by Stephanie Laurens

32. A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux

33. Heaven, Texas by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

34. To Have and to Hold by Patricia Gaffney

35. Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught

36. Match Me if You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

37. The Shadow of the Star by Laura Kinsale

38. Cry no More by Linda Howard

39. A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught

40. Over the Edge by Susanne Brockmann

41. Sea Swept by Nora Roberts

42. Ravished by Amanda Quick

43. Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas

44. To Die For by Linda Howard

45. Something Wonderful by Judith McNaught

46. This Heart of Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

47. The Serpent Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt

48. Suddenly You by Lisa Kleypas

49. The Proposition by Judith Ivory

50. Honor’s Splendor by Julie Garwood

51. Saving Grace by Julie Garwood

52. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

53. When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn

54. Persuasion by Jane Austen

55. All Through the Night by Connie Brockway

56. It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas

57. Born In Fire by Nora Roberts

58. Thunder and Roses by Mary Jo Putney

59. Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

60. Out of Control by Suzanne Brockmann

61. After the Night by Linda Howard

62. Lady Sophia’s Lover by Lisa Kleypas

63. The Secret Pearl by Mary Balogh

64. Once and Always by Judith McNaught

65. More Than a Mistress by Mary Balogh

66. Untie My Heart by Judith Ivory

67. See Jane Score by Rachel Gibson

68. The Rake by Mary Jo Putney

69. Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon

70. Perfect by Judith McNaught

71. Whitney, My Love by Judith McNaught

72. The Duke by Gaelen Foley

73. One Perfect Rose by Mary Jo Putney

74. Shattered Rainbow by Mary Jo Putney

75. The Windflower by Laura London

76. Dream a Little Dream by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

77. Frederica by Georgette Heyer

78. Passion by Lisa Valdez

79. Voyager by Diana Gabaldon

80. The Lady’s Tutor by Robin Schone

81. Morning Glory by Lavryl Spencer

82. Worth Any Price by Lisa Kleypas

83. Winter Garden by Adele Ashworth

84. My Dearest Enemy by Connie Brockway

85. Where Dreams Begin by Lisa Kleypas

86. Devil’s Cub by Georgette Heyer

87. Gone too Far by Suzanne Brockman

88. Anyone But You by Jennifer Cruise

89. For My Lady’s Heart by Laura Kinsale

90. Rising Tides by Nora Roberts

91. Lover Revealed by JR Ward

92. Open Season by Linda Howard

93. Born in Ice by Nora Roberts

94. Ransom by Julie Garwood

95. Venetia by Georgette Heyer

96. Miss Wonderful by Loretta Chase

97. Ain’t She Sweet by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

98. The Notorious Rake by Mary Balogh

99. The Prize by Julie Garwood

100. Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh

Names

I was just browsing another readers blog and came across a post where she has renamed her two daughters (to protect the innocent) some really countrified names! It got me thinking about my own children's names. I was born and raised here in the South and would never dream of naming my children anything along the lines of BillyBob or Mary Mae. I am a firm believer in thinking to the future and what your child will have to endure in school from the other children. My name being Heather experienced lots of funny little names that were not so funny to me then. I actually hated my name and would rather have been called by middle name "Brooke". My last name didn't help. When I got married I was happy to finally be rid of my maiden name that I took something that could be deemed much worse... my husband actually thinks it is and I am sure my son will too.
Anyway this online buddy said that her kids were drilling her about what she would have named them if... after a while she got tired of answering the questions and threw out these off the wall answers and a few of them stuck. My kids have not drilled me about what I would have named them, but my daughter (13) just started discussing names of her future children... which I hope are a long ways away. She actually told me that when she has a daughter she wants to name her "Poppie". I have begged her not to do this to her future daughter and to please think about what she will be putting this little girl through. Of course she turned it around on me!
Now when I named my daughter I went through a lot of pain to try and find something that she would not get picked on for. Who would have thought that the kids would have fault with my naming! My daughter's name is McKayla, but I spell it Michaela. What fault can you find with this name... what can the kids think of to pick on her about you might ask. Well I would never have thought of it, but kids can be pretty darn clever! The boys are constantly calling her Michael and saying that she is a boy. She hates her name now and is always asking me if she can please go by her middle name.
As for my son, I absolutely refuse to take any credit for naming him. Cody was not my choice and Mark would have only been a choice for me if I also named him after my Dad. My husband hated most of my choices for one reason or another so when I went into a false labor a week before he was born and we still had not picked out a name I threw my hands in the air. I gave my husband and my daughther each a piece of paper. I told them to write 5 names down. Both of them had Cody on thier list, mine did not. That is how he ended up with Cody. My husband's dad's name is Mark (also appeared on my daughter's list). So the night that Cody was born I did not have a middle name picked out, my husband told the nurse to use Mark. At least he won't be picked on for his first name... He will have enough problems with his last name!

The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt

This was the first time that I have read an Elizabeth Hoyt book. It was a great little story and it will be going to the keeper shelf. I can't wait to purchase the other two in the Series.
Anna Wren smooth talks her way into a secretary position for Lord Swartingham (Edward). She has the position for a week before Edward realizes that he has a female working for him. Anna probably has more backbone than the previous secrataries. His temper does not scare her and she actually stands up to him. The banter between these two is great. A fun story that I could not put down!

The True Friendship Promise

None of that 'Sis'-sy Stuff

Are you tired ofthose
sissy 'friendship' poems
that always sound good,
but neveractually come close
to reality?
Well, here is aseries of promises that actually speak of
True Friendship.
You WON'Tsee
cutesy little smileyfaces
on this card-
Just the stone cold truth
of our great friendship.

1. When you aresad,
I will jump onthe person
who made you sad
like a spidermonkey
jacked up onMountain Dew!!!

2. When you are blue,
I will try to dislodge
whatever is choking you.

3. When you smile,
I will know you are
plotting something
that I must be involved in.

4. When you're scared,
we will high tail it out of here.

5. When you are worried,
I will tell you horrible stories about how much worse
it could be until you
quit whining, ya big baby!!!!

6. When you are confused,
I will use little words.

7. When you are sick,
Stay away from me
until you are well again.
I don't want whatever you have.

8. When you fall,
I'll pick you up
and dust you off--
After I laugh my butt off!!

9. This is my oath...
Ipledge it to the end.
'Why?' you may ask;
--because you are my FRIEND!

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

Friendship is like peeing your pants,
everyone can see it,
but only YOU
can feel the
true warmth.

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

A Highlander Never Surrenders by Paula Quinn

This is the sequel to Laird of the Mist. Graham Grant, the Commander of the MacGregor Clan, has vowed to live his life as a single man taking pleasure where and when he finds it... which is often and everywhere. There is not a woman around that would not drop to her knees for this man. Nothing is more important to him than his honor and the battlefield. Imagine his surprise when he loses his heart to one sword wielding female wearing pants! Claire is determined to save her sister and seek out revenge on the person who betrayed her brother. Nothing and no one will stand in her way.These two fight each other and their selves every step of the way. Graham cannot get Claire out of his head yet he won't stake claim to her, for doing so would betray one of his closest friends. The passion between them is ignitable.An added bonus, the author takes you back to Skye where you get to visit with the main characters from Laird of the Mist.Another great story by Puala Quinn. 5 Stars!!!”

Laird of the Mist by Paula Quinn

I read Laird of the Mist for the ROR Fall reading challenge. It had been highly recommended by a friend from Shelfari/ROR. I now understand her excitement about this book.

Laird of the Mist has got to be the ultimate wounded hero novel. Callum MacGregor was captured by his enemy as a child and held in the dungeon with his young sister. They both survived this tortured life for nine years, bearing physical and emotional scars. Callum has vowed to avenge all of the MacGregor clan, claim his name, and seek revenge against all Campbells.

Kate Campbell has been taught to fear and hate the MacGregors, especially the one they call The Devil. To her surprise The Devil is the very man he comes to her rescue when she is attacked by another raiding clan.

The desire erupts between these two with a vengeance. Kate is determined to make Callum like her and look past her name. Callum is determined to hate Kate for her last name. She is simply a means to an end.

Laird of the Mist comes full of passion, perils, and deceit. This is a definite 5 star read!!!

Recipe Swap

Cream Cheese Pie

• 8 oz. package of cream cheese
• 1/3 c lemon juice
• can of sweetened condensed milk
• vanilla extract (can't remember the exact amount so I just use a cap full)
• graham cracker pie crust (deep)
• optional: your favorite pie filling, fresh fruit, whip cream

1. combine all ingredients in large bowl. stir/blend
2. pour into pie crust and cover
3. refrigerate over night or unti set (not runny)
4. top with your favorite fruit topping or pie filling

I used this recipe for a Fourth of July picnic and decorated it with blue berries, strawberries (cut in 1/4), and whip cream to make the flag. The recipe is one my Dad made every year at Thanksgiving and Christmas. I believe he got it from a Philidelphia Cream Cheese box.

Read Around the Genres

What a great challenge Cindy!

Click on Cindy to find out more about this challenge!!!
My book titles are on the way... need to figure out which ones I will be reading in addition to the Fall Reading Challenge.

Here’s the list

1. Pirate or Viking: A Pirate Of Her Own by Kinley Macgregor

2. Vampire: Realm of Shadows by Shannon Drake

3. Contemporary: Tall Tales and Wedding Veils by J. Graves

4. Chick Lit: Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

5. Medieval: Ransom or Honor's Splendor by Julie Garwood

6. Time Travel: A Knight in Shinning Armor by Jude Deveraux

7. Romantic Suspense: Tribute by Nora Roberts

8. Inspirational: The Peacemaker by Lori Copeland

9. Historical: The Brat by Lynsay Sands

10. Paranormal: Mystic Rider by Patricia Rice

The Dream Thief by Shana Abe

Challenge: #12. a series book

Rating: 5 *

Description: Buried deep within the Carpathian Mountains lies the legendary dreaming diamond known as Draumr, the only gem with the power to enslave the drakon. Since childhood, Lady Amalia Langford, daughter of the clan's Alpha, has heard its haunting ballad but kept it secret, along with another rare Gift: Lia can hear the future. In it, she realizes that the diamond- along with the fate of the drakon- rests in the hands of Zane, a human... and her future lover. A master thief, Zane is the only man trusted by the drakon to bring them the stone. But Lia knows he straddles tow worlds and will become either her ally- or her overlord. Now, driven by the urgent song- and by her visions of Zane- Lia breaks every rule to join him. For to protect her tribe she must tie her destiny to that of the man capable of stealing her future... and destroying her heart.
Review: I read the first in this series, The Smoke Thief, during the summer challenge which is why I chose to read The Dream Thief for the series selection. I enjoyed TST, but was not sure that I enjoyed it enough to continue with this series. I am extremely happy that I continued with this series. The Dream Thief started off much better than the first, gripping me from the very beginning. Lia's turmoil starts at a very young age. She is experiencing things in her dreams, she can not see only hear and feel, that leave her mystified. Unable to tell her family she keeps her secrets and separates herself from them, leaving her lonely. She is much like Rue was as a child, not beautiful like her siblings, but awkward. She is unable to turn so she also feels like an outsider looking in. She runs to Zane at 12 years old to warn that she will protect her family at costs. Years later she has planned and placed herself in Zane's path, refusing to be sent home. The truths and lies between these two kept the tension up. There was enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages. I could not put this book down and am looking forward to reading the next... The Queen of Dragons.

Highland Warrior by Connie Mason

Fall Challenge '08: #15. title with two words

Rating 4.5

To end generations of feuding Ross MacKenna must wed Gillian McKay, a fiery lass wielding a sword. Treachery is afoot; Angus Sinclair has need of the feud and has several plans to ensure that the McKay and the MacKenna clans continue with their feud.

Connie Mason has never failed to write a gripping story full of action, passion and love. This was a great story! It’s been a while since I picked up a Connie Mason book, I forgot how HOT they can be, or how frequently they get HOT. I was not disappointed with Highland Warrior. Ross was of course a hunky Highlander who is possessive over what is his. He did not for one second believe that he could not “tame” his wild wife. Gillian was a strong woman who wanted to keep the feud going… the MacKenna did slay two of her brothers. This was definitely an amazing story of treachery, love, and swordplay. I am putting this one on my wish list.