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Sunday, June 27, 2010

: Blood Bargain by Maria Lima :

Keira Kelly is coming into her unexpected and unexpectedly awesome powers… and Rio Seco, Texas ain’t ever gonna be the same!

Something is not right at Wild Moon Ranch…

Keira Kelly has settled in with handsome Adam Walker, but happy-ever-after is not so easy when your vampire lover seems determined to deny his true nature. With Adam starving himself of blood and growing weak, Keira needs to work out how to persuade him to take care of himself, something she’s finding difficult to do—even with the advice of her brother Tucker, a millennium-old ex-Viking shapeshifter. And people have started disappearing in the Rio Seco area, making Keira worry about what this could mean, both for her friends in Rio Seco and to the community she and Adam have been creating at the ranch. But her investigation only seems to bring more trouble, especially when a clue leads her to an abandoned cemetery that Keira knew well when she was younger…one that has always been extremely important to her magical family. Evil is definitely walking once again in the Texas Hill Country. Can Keira discover where the danger lies…before danger discovers her?

So the story continues on - Keira has moved in with Adam, Tucker and Nicko have a relationship unlike anything Keira has ever seen from her brother before. Then Adam's condition changes until one day he is in a self induced coma. Keira soon finds out the cause of his problems stems back to her and she is so angry and needs to find a way to bring Adam back.

Following Keira and Tucker trying to find the lost teenagers, thrown in with Adam's coma and her BFF Bea being stalked by Pete, the missing ranch hand and the whispering she hears in her head - things are never dull.

I liked the way the story progressed and pace it moved at. Throughout the book, the ancestry on her mother's side kept popping up and I knew somehow that it would lead to a new direction in the story. Yes - it was the Faery folk that had placed the ward around La Angel statue, and once overcoming that and meeting up with Daffyd, some answers are given to events that had taken place throughout the book.

I enjoyed this book. I love the twists and turns, and the fact that even though there is a love story there between Keira and Adam, it doesn't take over the book. There is so much going on, that you know their story is there, but you enjoy all the other happenings of the book as much. The characters and plots are believable, and the writing is quite intriguing and informative throughout.

I recommend you read this book. I loved it.

RATING 8/10

: Inspiration - June 27th 2010 :

You can't make all of the people like you all of the time ... as long as YOU like YOU ... that should be enough ...

: Win an ARC of Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulten :


Would you like to win an ARC of Angelfire?
Click the link below to enter :
http://courtney-allison.blogspot.com/2010/06/angelfire-cover-and-arcs-plus-contest.html


Saturday, June 26, 2010

: Matters of the Blood by Maria Lima :

If you thought your family was strange…

Try being Keira Kelly. A member of a powerful paranormal family, Keira elected to stay among humans in the Texas Hill Country when the rest of the clan moved (lock, stock, and grimoire) to Canada. But family duty means still having to keep an eye on cousin Marty—a genetic aberration who turned out 100% human, poor guy. And recently Keira’s been having violent dreams—or are they visions?—featuring Marty as the victim of a vicious murder. Something sinister seems to be brewing in little Rio Seco. Can Keira get to the bottom of it all while avoiding entanglement with her former lover, Sheriff Carlton Larson? And what does she plan to do about the irresistible and enigmatic Adam Walker? When this old friend shows up as the new owner of a local ranc and wants to get better acquainted, Keira is more than happy to be welcoming…until she suspects that Adam could be intimately connected to the dangerous doings in Rio Seco.


I knew nothing about this series of books ... so no idea what to expect. What I found was a great story ... not pages of describing scenery and emotions - everything moved at a great pace.
Kiera is changing ... into what she doesn't know, and thankfully she is lucky enough to have a friend that she can confide in. Being alone by choice isn't easy - and throw in an ex-lover who still wants her, and things are never going to run smoothly. Oh and just to make things interesting - an old friend from London appears on the scene, and Kiera finds her attraction to him once again.

I think this book had a bit of everything - love, lust, suspense - the characters all flowed very easily. And as usual ... I think my plot solving has turned off these days ... I was surprised to find out who the murderer was! Didn't see that one coming. Also - what is Kiera changing into? And how long will the whole process take? Makes you wonder - that must be scary being faced with the unknown.

The story line never stagnates - so if you are looking for a good read ... choose this book.

RATING - 7/10


Friday, June 25, 2010

: Friday Chatter - June 25th 2010 :

Here we are ... another Friday rolling around. Woken this morning to rain rain rain ... I am over it ...bring on spring and summer. Not alot planned for today ... my meditation class starts at 11am, then grocery shopping (that never goes away) and then a quick visit to my son Jess' house tonight ... wishing you all the best of days!!!!

IN MY MAILBOX

This week I received :
Original Sin by Allison Brennan (Thanks Random House)

Matters of the Blood by Maria Lima
Blood Bargain by Maria Lima
Blood Kin by Maria Lima
(Thanks to Simcha from SFF Chat)

BOOKS I HAVE BOUGHT

Vision in White by Nora Roberts
Evernight by Claudia Gray
Stargazer by Claudia Gray
Hourglass by Claudia Gray
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Yesterday was a historical day for Australia ... Kevin Rudd was ousted as Prime Minister without completing 1 term in office ... and Julia Gillard was announced as our first female Prime Minister. I found this photo of her and thought why not share it ... makes a change from all those stuffy official ones. Wonder if she will be officially voted in when the next election comes around?



: Inspiration - June 25th 2010 :

Most of us spend our lives as if we have another one in the bank.
~Ben Irwin

Thursday, June 24, 2010

: Author Events :

Bret Easton Ellis - 13/08/2010 - 19:30 Talk - VIC

LA-based author Bret Easton Ellis will be speaking about his latest novel "Imperial Bedrooms", the much anticipated follow-up to eighties cult classic "Less Than Zero". Bookings open July 16 for this event, to be held at the Athenaeum Theatre. This event will be run in partnership with Readings and Melbourne Writers Festival. For more information contact (03) 9094 7800.

Tony Park - 07/08/2010 - Talk - VIC

Come along to the Ebony Quill Food Store to hear local author Tony Park talk about his most recent novel "The Delta". For more information contact Henk at Dymocks Camberwell (03) 9882 0032.

Tony Martin - 21/07/2010 - 18:15 Talk - VIC

The Wheeler Centre presents "A Night of Two Tones: Tony Martin and Tony Wilson". For more information and bookings contact The Wheeler Centre (03) 9094 7800.

James Morton and Russell Robinson - 18/07/2010 - 16:00 Festival - VIC

Russel Robinson will be speaking to Shirley Hardy-Rix as part of the Crime and Justice Festival. Robinson is an investigative reporter at the Herald Sun, and one half of the duo behind "Shotgun and Standover: the story of the painters and dockers". For more information and bookings visit www.crimeandjusticefestival.com

David Hewson - 17/07/2010 - 16:00 Festival - VIC

UK based author David Hewson will be at the Crime and Justice Festival for an in-conversation event with Robert Gott. Hewson is best known for his acclaimed Nic Costa crime series, set in modern day Rome. For more information and bookings visit www.crimeandjusticefestival.com


John Birmingham - 08/07/2010 - 18:00 (TALK - VICTORIA)

Come along to Dymocks in Collins Street to hear acclaimed author John Birmingham talk about his latest techno-thriller "After America".

John Birmingham - 14/07/2010 - 18:15 (TALK - VICTORIA)

Award-winning author John Birmingham will be speaking about his latest novel "After America" at this Wheeler Centre event. For more information contact (03) 9094 7800.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

: Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert :

Paperback - published in 2007 (349 Pages)
ISBN : 9780747585664


It's 3am and Elizabeth Gilbert is sobbing on the bathroom floor. She's in her thirties, she has a husband, a house, they are trying for a baby - and she doesn't want any of it. A bitter divorce and a turbulent love affair later, she emerges battered and bewildered and realises it is time to pursue her own journey in search of three things she has been missing : pleasure, devotion and balance. So she travels to Rome, where she learns Italian from handsome, brown eyed twins and gains twenty five pounds; to an ashram in India, where she finds that enlightenment entails getting up in the middle of the night to scrub the temple floor and to Bali where a toothless medicine man of indeterminate age offers her a new path to peace : simply sit still and smile. And slowly happiness creeps up on her.



Mmmm ... where to start. I was expecting a mammoth personal journey for Elizabeth when starting this book, and we certainly experience one with her.

I did struggle through the time she spent in Italy - admit that I put the book down and walked away ... there was way too much food and travel information for me but once she moved on to India, well, the book had me. Her struggle with the 182 Sanskrit verse on a daily basis, scrubbing floors at the temple and her questioning how this meditation she is struggling with is going to ever help her bring peace to her mind and body was captivating. Slowly as the realization that she was going to have to work at releasing all the negativity to bring in the peace and positivity she was searching for is something that we should all be able to relate to. And finally Bali - a place and people that brought everything together for her including love.


I enjoyed this book, but don't pick it up expecting everything to be sugar coated and an easy read. It's about real life and real people. On a side note ... what would the reaction be I wonder, if a man had taken the journey that Elizabeth did? Would this have been a #1 best seller?

RATING - 7/10

Monday, June 21, 2010

: Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey :

When Keri Daniels’ editor finds out she has previous carnal knowledge of reclusive bestselling author Joe Kowalski, she gives Keri a choice: get an interview or get a new job.

Joe’s never forgotten the first girl to break his heart, so he’s intrigued to hear Keri’s back in town—and looking for him. Despite his intense need for privacy, he’ll grant Keri an interview if it means a chance to finish what they started in high school.

He proposes an outrageous plan—for every day she survives with his family on their annual camping and four-wheeling trip, Keri can ask one question. Keri agrees; she’s worked too hard to walk away from her career.

But the chemistry between them is still as potent as the bug spray, Joe’s sister is out to avenge his broken heart and Keri hasn’t ridden an ATV since she was ten. Who knew a little blackmail, a whole lot of family and some sizzling romantic interludes could make Keri reconsider the old dream of Keri & Joe 2gether 4ever.

Within a few pages of reading this book, I was already reaching for a cup of coffee as I knew I wasn't going to put it down. Immediately I felt comfortable with all the characters ... Keri and Joe ... past loves that we've all had and asked the question of 'What if?'

I enjoyed the introduction of Joe's family members, and all the life struggles they were dealing with - it certainly made the storyline come alive. Setting the majority of the story around a 2 week camping holiday only added to the storyline being believable and mirroring real life.

I loved that Keri was strong enough to stand up for what she believed in and honoring her word ... even in the end when it could have repercussions on her career. To be faced with the struggle of love and career is something so many people, men and women, are faced with every day.

I recommend this book - tugged at my heart strings, made me laugh and made me blush ... and in the end, I finished this feeling quite good about love and life's way of making things work out.

RATING - 8/10

: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer :

Released June 2010
(Hard Cover - 178 pages)
ISBN 978-1-907410-36-9

Fans of The Twilight Saga will be enthralled by this riveting story of Bree Tanner, a character first introduced in Eclipse, and the darker side of the newborn vampire world she inhabits. In another irresistible combination of danger, mystery, and romance, Stephenie Meyer tells the devastating story of Bree and the newborn army as they prepare to close in on Bella Swan and the Cullens, following their encounter to its unforgettable conclusion.
In another irresistible combination of danger, mystery and romance, Stephenie Meyer tells the devastating story of the newborn army as they prepare to close in on Bella Swan and the Cullens, following their encounter to its unforgettable conclusion.

Bree Tanner can barely remember life before she had uncannily powerful senses, superhuman reflexes and unstoppable physical strength. Life before she had a relentless thirst for blood... life before she became a vampire.
All Bree knows is that living with her fellow newborns has few certainties and even fewer rules: watch your back, don't draw attention to yourself and, above all, make it home by sunrise or die. What she doesn't know: her time as an immortal is quickly running out.
Then Bree finds an unexpected friend in Diego, a newborn just as curious as Bree about their mysterious creator, whom they know only as "her". As they come to realize that the newborns are pawns in a game larger than anything they could have imagines, Bree and Diego must choose sides and decide whom to trus. But when everything you know about vampires is based on a lie, how do you find the truth?


This book was very easy to read, and from the beginning, anyone that knows the Twilight books, knows how the book is going to end. Geez, I guess even the title gives that away ... lol.

I enjoyed this book - we are given a different perspective of Bree, Diego, and Fred. These 3 vampires could have made a home somewhere and created a nice coven like the Cullen's and their friends. Also, we find out how Victoria and Riley have kept the new young vampires under their control by keeping them in the dark about sunlight etc ... very clever.

I believe that Stephenie gave a whole new perspective on the creation and training of the newborns. And it was nice to have some of the gaps filled in that were missing in Eclipse, from that point of view.

Congrats Stephenie - I think that you could write about anything, and it would be gripping and interesting. As I said before, this is an easy read, you can't get too involved with any of the characters in the book, but well worth reading if you are a Twilight Fan.

RATING - 7/10

: Inspiration for today - June 21st 2010 :


We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is, knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out. - Ray Bradbury

: June Giveaway :

: June Giveaway :

This time ... I am giving away a $25 Gift Voucher to Amazon

All you have to do to enter the Giveaway is leave a comment, and recommend a book to me.

Simple!

Make sure that you leave an email address as well, so that I can get in touch with you. The Gift Certificate will be sent by email as well.

The Giveaway is open until 11.59pm on June 30th 2010 and this is an International Giveaway
Winner will be drawn at random.org

: Bon Jovi - coming to Australia 2010 :

WOOHOO! Anyone that knows me ... knows that I am a mad Bon Jovi fan ... and they have just announced dates for the Australian leg of their tour ... and I will be there!!!! No doubt about it.

Here's a video of one of my fave 'new' songs from the guys

Saturday, June 19, 2010

: Aussie Meme :

I don't normally take part in meme's but I found this on AND THE PLOT THICKENS and I thought, why not? Wonder if any of the followers are interested in this ....

How many of these things have you done? ( Things I have done are in BOLD)
  1. Heard a kookaburra in person.
  2. Slept under the stars.
  3. Seen a koala.
  4. Visited Melbourne.
  5. Watched a summer thunderstorm.
  6. Worn a pair of thongs.
  7. Been to Uluru (Ayer’s Rock)
  8. Visited Cape York.
  9. Held a snake.
  10. Sang along with Khe San
  11. Drank VB.
  12. Visited Sydney.
  13. Have seen a shark.
  14. Have used Aussie (and NZ) slang naturally in a conversation.
  15. Had an actual conversation with an indigenous Australian (Aboriginal).
  16. Eaten hot chips from the bag at the beach.
  17. Walked/climbed over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
  18. Used an outside dunny, and checked under the seat before sitting down.
  19. Seen Chloe in Young & Jackson’s.
  20. Slept on an overnight train or bus.
  21. Been to Sydney’s Mardi Gras
  22. Have gone bush-bashing.
  23. Taken a sickie.
  24. Been to see a game of Aussie Rules football.
  25. Have seen wild camels (just tame ones)
  26. Gone skinny dipping.
  27. Done a Tim Tam Slam.
  28. Ridden in a tram in Melbourne.
  29. Been at an ANZAC day Dawn Service.
  30. Held a wombat.
  31. Been on a roadtrip of 800km or more.
  32. Seen the Great Australian Bight in person.
  33. Had a really bad sunburn.
  34. Visited an Aboriginal community.
  35. Seen a redback spider.
  36. Have watched Paul Hogan.
  37. Seen Blue Poles in person.
  38. Wandered barefoot in the bush/outback.
  39. Eaten Vegemite.
  40. Thrown a boomerang.
  41. Seen the Kimberleys.
  42. Given a hitch-hiker a lift.
  43. Been to Perth.
  44. Have tried Lemon, Lime and Bitters.
  45. Tried playing a didgeridoo.
  46. Seen dinosaur footprints.
  47. Eaten Tim Tams.
  48. Been to Darwin.
  49. Touched a kangaroo.
  50. Visted the Great Barrier Reef.
  51. Listened to Kevin Bloody Wilson.
  52. Killed a Cane Toad.
  53. Gone to a drive-in theatre.
  54. Have read and own books by Australian authors.
  55. Visited Adelaide.
  56. Know the story behind “Eternity”.
  57. Been camping.
  58. Visited Brisbane.
  59. Been in an outback pub.
  60. Know what the term “Waltzing Matilda” actually means.
  61. Gone whale watching.
  62. Listened to Slim Dusty.
  63. Own five or more Australian movies or TV series.
  64. Sang along to Down Under.
  65. Have stopped specifically to look at an historic marker by the side of the road.
  66. Eaten a 4′n’20 pie.
  67. Surfed at Bondi.
  68. Watched the cricket on Boxing Day.
  69. Visited Hobart.
  70. Eaten kangaroo.
  71. Seen a quokka.
  72. Visited Canberra.
  73. Visited rainforests.
  74. Used a Victa lawnmower.
  75. Travelled on a tram in Adelaide.
  76. Used a Hills hoist.
  77. Visited Kata Tjuta
  78. Used native Australian plants in cooking.
  79. Visited the snow.
  80. Chosen a side in Holden VS Ford.
  81. Visited the desert.
  82. Been water skiing
  83. Read The Phantom.
  84. Visited Parliament House
  85. Gone spotlighting or pig-shooting.
  86. Crossed the Nullarbor
  87. Avoided swimming in areas because of crocodiles.
  88. Listened to AC/DC.
  89. Called someone a dag.
  90. Voted in a Federal Election.
  91. Have been swimming and stayed between the flags.
  92. Had a possum in your roof.
  93. Visited the outback.
  94. Travelled over corrugated roads.
  95. Hit a kangaroo while driving.
  96. Been well outside any mobile phone coverage.
  97. Seen an emu.
  98. Have woken to the smell of bushfires.
  99. Subscribed to RRR.
  100. Patted a pure-bred dingo.
  101. Seen the Oils live.
OMG - I am an Aussie through and through ... hehe :)

If you use this meme on your blog, come back and leave a comment. Also, stay tuned! there is more Aussie goodness coming your way soon...

: Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick :


First Published 2009 ... 391 Pages (Soft Cover)

For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her...until Patch comes along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment, but after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is far more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.
For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.


I had been so keen to read this book ... and being the next book on the pile, I grabbed it and settled down, waiting to be captivated by the story.

I hate to say this ... but by page 72, I began to work my way back through the book to make sure that I hadn't missed anything. So I kept plodding along ... and plodding along and plodding along - waiting for something to happen. Not alot did ... every time you got the hint of something happening, it didn't. It finally took to about page 300 ... and I was keen for a huge finish to the book to make up for the lack of action throughout. Seriously, even the ending was a let down to me.

For me ... this book was a let down ... I had worked out who the bad guy was way before he was revealed, knew that Patch was in love with Nora, and that Vee was shallow and self absorbed.

I can't honestly say that I would recommend this book to anyone ...

RATING - 4/10

Friday, June 18, 2010

: Friday Ramblings June 18th 2010 :

Well, another week has come and gone. And it's been one of those weeks, where I don't feel like I have achieved much - so look out next week, things will be moving around here.
I found this picture and thought ... wouldn't it be nice to have your own little corner book shop - imagine getting up every day and going to work ... how nice would that be? One can dream.

Good news ... getting a visit tonight from my daughter Paige, daughter-in-law Mel and granddaughter Harlow ... and to make it even better, they are having a sleepover ... hehe ... too cool! Wonder if hubby will have control of the TV ... footy might just get the flick tonight and we may have to watch some of the movies that Jess & Kimba brought back from Bali.
I have a choice of :
  • Legion (Dennis Quaid)
  • Jennifer's Body (Megan Fox)
  • Remember Me (Robert Pattinson)
  • A Nightmare on Elm Street(Jackie Earle Haley)
  • Gossip Girl - Season 1
  • Gossip Girl - Season 2
  • Entourage - Season 6
Decisions Decisions ... lol
**************************************************************
My Friday " Book Share "
Feel free to share back with me ...
Just open your book up - and post a sentence or two (a little more if you want) ... from anywhere in the book. Oh, and share the book title and author please! Thanks xoxoxo

I tossed all night. The wind gusted through the open fields rimming the farmhouse, spraying debris against the windows. I woke several times, hearing shingles being pulled from the roof, and tumbling over the edge. Every small noise from the rattle of the window panes to my own creaking bed springs had me jumping out of sleep.
(from HUSH HUSH by Becca Fitzpatrick - Chapter 20)

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

:750 Follower Giveaway Reading with Tequila :

Check out this great giveaway hosted by READING WITH TEQUILA. She has reached 750 but if she reaches 1000, the prizes will be amazing. So go enter today!
Giveaway ends July 13th 2010

: Tv Show Finales :

It is getting to that time again ... when the few shows that I like to watch are all coming to an end for this season.

I tuned in on Monday night to watch the Season final of Brothers & Sisters. I thought this show had started to lose it's way this season ... but the finale showed me that the writers always have something up their sleeve. The family finds an underground natural water supply on their property (Narrow Lake) which is going to restore their wealth, and hopefully all their sanity. Sad news to find out that Sol has AIDS - will be looking forward to how they work with that storyline. BUT the saddest part for me was the death of Robert McAllister in a car accident. After everything that Robert and Kitty had been through, this was heartbreaking.
I will be sorry to see Rob Lowe leave the show ... he always had the best lines (cos they just come out in family situations like they all end up in).

Another show that I like 'PRIVATE PRACTICE' wrapped up the season here with a 2 hour finale that had everything and more, and had me sitting on the edge of my chair in tears.
Addison stepping aside to allow Pete and Violet to get back together, Cooper and Charlotte getting engaged, and Sam & Addison closing the show - kissing in his house ... yes, she finally admitted that Sam made her happy - was a perfect way to end the show.

The death of Dell, after a car crash was totally unexpected for me ... sorry to see you go Dell :(
Guess now I only have to wait another 6 months before these come back!

: The Van Alen Legacy by Melissa de la Cruz :

With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss’s true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamorous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival. Not to worry; love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Schuyler has made her choice. She has forsaken Jack for Oliver, choosing human over vampire. But old loves die hard...And even coldhearted Mimi seems to suffer from the ties that bind.

Young vampires unite in this highly anticipated fourth installment of the New York Times best-selling series.

This book really did a great job of covering all the major characters in the series. We find ourselves a year down the track - Mimi and Jack didn't go through with the bonding ceremony, and Mimi has volunteered to help Kingsley search for Sophia (Jordan). As angry as she became at Jack for his feelings towards Schuyler, Mimi now finds herself having the very same feelings for Kingsley, but knows that she cannot break the sacred bond.

Schuyler and Oliver have been in hiding for way too long, and Oliver talks Schuyler to return to New York, and he promises to deal with the Conclave. He is dedicated to Schuyler and loves her dearly.

Poor Bliss - alot of answered questions for me ... I did wonder why she became such a big part of the story in the last book, and she features quite strongly in this one too but when reading it, you understand why. The Visitor makes Bliss work for a clear thinking moment all the way through this book.

The Silver Bloods haven't won - but will they? We will have to wait and see when Misguided Angels is released in October.

  • I loved this book and really really didn't want this book to finish
  • Great emotional writing - and different sides of the characters are shown
  • More twists and turns - and not repetitive in any way
  • Brilliant Angel choices and explanations.
  • Intriguing situations that keep you turning the pages.
RATING - 8/10


Monday, June 14, 2010

: Revelations by Melissa de la Cruz :


Have you ever wondered what secrets lurk behind the closed doors of New York City’s wealthiest families? They’re powerful, they’re famous… they’re undead.

Schuyler Van Alen’s blood legacy has just been called into question—is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force.

When an ancient place of power is breached by Silver Bloods in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods will need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high; the battle is bloody; and through it all, Schuyler is torn between love and passion, duty and freedom. And in the end, one vampire’s secret identity will be exposed in a revelation that shocks everyone.

OMG - can you tell that I loved it! I have finished this book in record time for me ... lol
I love having the journey with Schuyler ... watching the relationship change with Oliver, and seeing the love affair with Jack grow, with Schuyler unsure if they can ever really be together.

Bliss had me worried during the book - there was something strange going on with her, and at the end of the book you find out what it is .... but only after tragedy strikes the Elders, and Lawrence. What will happen to them now? Part of me feels sorry for Mimi - to love Jack the way that she does and know that he loves another ... heartbreaking, but as you can gather ... Mimi won't go down without a fight. Jack is hers, and Schuyler won't find the path to true love easy.

I think that the way Melissa has written these books, young and old can enjoy them. The storyline flows, and you actually feel like you know each of the characters. I am moving on to the 4th book in the series The Van Alen Legacy now ... thanks for another great read Melissa.

RATING - 8/10

: World Cup 2010 - Socceroos V Germany :


I got up at 4am this morning to watch our Aussie boys play Germany in their first match in the FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
2nd half has just started and we are down 2 - 0 ... hoping for a big comeback!

**UPDATE** Now that I have had a snooze ... we lost to germany 4 - 0
No Tim Cahill (Red Card) for the next game ... we have to win the next 2 games.

: Masquerade by Melissa de la Cruz :


Schuyler Van Alen wants an explanation for the mysterious deaths of young Blue Bloods. Her search brings her to Venice, Italy, in the hopes of finding the one person who can help. Meanwhile, back in New York, preparations are feverishly underway for the famous Four Hundred Ball, an exclusive gala hosted by the city’s wealthy, powerful, and unhuman—a true Blue Blood affair. But it’s at the after-party masquerade that the true danger lurks. Hidden behind the masks is a revelation that will change the course of a young vampire’s destiny.

Rich with glamour, attitude, and vampire lore, this second installment in the Blue Bloods saga will leave readers thirsty for more.

With the 2nd installment in this series, I found that I became so engrossed in the story, that I literally read this book in an afternoon. Schuyler experiences so many emotions in this book - disappointment, sadness, elation, love.

Her relationship with Bliss blossoms, and they join forces trying to work out what really happened to Dylan? Was it all a cover up? Is Dylan really dead? Was Dylan really a Silver Blood?
And the cute new boy at school, Kingsley ... she knows that there is something about him that just doesn't sit right with her.

The reappearance of Lawrence, her grandfather, makes Schuyler happy - and once he begins to teach her all the talents she has yet to unlock, Schuyler finds herself becoming weaker with each knew challenge thrown at her. And knowing that she must take a familiar, something that she really isn't keen on doing. She wants it to be someone that she knows, and is familiar with and when she asks Oliver to allow her to feed on him, she knows their relationship will change, but will it be for the better. By feeding on Oliver, she is going against the rules - he is her Conduit, and has been by her side forever - she will see all his memories and feelings. Is she ready for that?

And Jack - what a position to be put in. An immortal bond exists between Mimi and Jack, but he just can't stay away from Schuyler. In the end, Schuyler is the one that can make or break the bond between the two of them ... at what expense?

Right to the end of the book, I kept expecting a miracle - one day Schuyler will go to the hospital and her mother will wake up ... won't she?

Melissa keeps the reader hooked all the way through this book (gently bows) and has left the ending once again having me totally intrigued and already grabbing for Revelations.

RATING - 8/10

Sunday, June 13, 2010

: Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz :


Within New York City’s most elite families, there lurks a secret society of celebrated Americans whose ancestors sailed on the Mayflower. They are the powerful and the wealthy—and in fact, they are not human. They are the Blue Bloods, an ancient group of vampires.

Schuyler Van Alen has never fit in at Duchesne, her prestigious New York City private school. She prefers baggy, vintage clothes instead of the Prada and pearls worn by her classmates, and she lives with her reclusive grandmother in a dilapidated mansion. Schuyler is a loner—and happy that way.

But when she turns fifteen, Schuyler’s life changes dramatically. She has a mosaic of blue veins on her arms, and craves raw meat. The death of a popular girl from Duchesne is surrounded by a mystery that haunts her. And strangest off all, Jack Force, the most popular boy in school, is showing a sudden interest in her.

Schuyler wants to find out the secrets the Blue Bloods are keeping. But is she herself in danger?

Steeped in vampire lore and set against the glittery backdrop of New York City, Blue Bloods will be devoured by fans of Melissa de la Cruz.

I started reading this book with no expectations .. and I am glad that I did.

We have the typical girly 'in' crowd ... and those that are on the outside, the hot guy that won't even look in your direction until ...

I think that Melissa kept enough surprises popping up through the book, and just when you think that you have all the little secrets worked out - you don't!

The way the books ends, leaving everything still open - no concrete answers, is brilliant. Also, the excerpt from the next book in the series is a great way to keep the reader wanting more.

I liked this book - and reading Masquerade already.

RATING - 7/10


Friday, June 11, 2010

: Giveaway at All Things Urban Fantasy :

GREAT GIVEAWAY AT ALL THINGS URBAN FANTASY

Giveaway courtesy of Carrie Vaughn

A signed copy of KITTY GOES TO WAR plus a CD of the playlist made by Carrie Vaughn.

GIVEAWAY GUIDLINES

  1. Open Internationally (thanks Carrie!)
  2. Fill out the HERE http://allthingsurbanfantasy.blogspot.com/
  3. Entries for all Paranormal Summer Fest giveaways must be received by Midnight MST on July 4th. All the giveaways winners will be announced on July 6th.

: Twilight Giveaway :

NOW CLOSED - and winner contacted

Yes, I hear you say ... this has been around for ages .. and I know.
But I have a copy from my Bookshelf, that I received in a bundle of books I bought on eBay ... and want to pass it on to someone that would like it. The book is in great condition and has the red edging on the pages. My name is written inside, but hope that doesn't deter anyone.

So ... not posting this anywhere but here ... and all you have to do is post a comment ... anything Twilight related and an email addy where I can contact you. I'll leave this open for a few days, and then let random.org decide who gets the book.

~ This is an International Giveaway ~

DID YOU KNOW ... this book is still a # 1 Best Seller?

: The Truth About Forever :


Macy's summer stretches before her, carefully planned and outlined. She will spend her days sitting at the library information desk. She will spend her evenings studying for the SATs. Spare time will be used to help her obsessive mother prepare for the big opening of the townhouse section of her luxury development. But Macy's plans don't anticipate a surprising and chaotic job with Wish Catering, a motley crew of new friends, or ... Wes. Tattooed, artistic, anything-but-expected Wes. He doesn't fit Macy's life at all--so why does she feel so comfortable with him? So ... happy? What is it about him that makes her let down her guard and finally talk about how much she misses her father, who died before her eyes the year before?

I find reading this book that Sarah captures perfectly teenage emotions. The grief that Macy goes through after the death of her father, trying to please her mother and 'boyfriend' by being perfect ... which is not what is making her happy. Her mother has shut down, and won't even discuss the death, and works around the clock so their contact is minimal.
The summer job that Macy agree's to take (replacing Jason 'her boyfriend') puts her in a position where everyday she is belittled and looked down on by the 2 girls she is working with - sound familiar? Anyone else dealt with that in their teenage life?
And then, one night, she makes a move that makes a whole new group of friends, and also gives her a new job opportunity. In that group of friends, there is Wes ... and the more you read, the more you realise, he is the boy most of us looked for at that age - where beauty wasn't the most important thing, and he meant it. Their game of 'Truth' opens up communication between the two of them, and has them both sharing feelings about their losses, and innermost thoughts. Macy doesn't see the bond, but feels it growing inside her, and not until she breaks free of being and doing everything that others expect of her, can she come to realise just how much Wes means to her.

I loved it - I think that Sarah has totally captured teenage emotions and life perfectly. Definately writes with passion and knowledge making this book a good read. Looking forward to reading more of Sarah's books.

RATING - 7/10

: Inspiration for today :


Change your thoughts and you change your world.- Norman Vincent Peale

T.G.I.F. again ... hehe

Good morning everyone ... another Friday has rolled around ... and we have the Queen's birthday weekend here ... we are heading down to see my folks tomorrow, so I won't be around until late. It's wet and cold, and I am dreading the rest of winter ... I really don't like the cold weather ... but that said, it's always a good time to stay inside and read a book!

And guess what? I have notched up 50 blog posts in a short space of time ... so I made a little tag to brag about it. Feel free to snag if you want ... just don't change anything as this is PTU art. I am guessing that so many of you have well passed the 50 posts anyway.

So for my typical Friday " Book Share "
***********************************
Changing this up a bit ... just open your book up - and post a sentence or two (a little more if you want) ... from anywhere in the book. Oh, and share the book title and author please! Thanks xoxoxo

I have just finished Sarah Dessen's THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER ...
Page 203 ... hehe

"No" she said, flipping the book over to read the back cover. "It's right here! And it's totally you and Wes. You can't be together, which is exactly why you want to be. And why you can't admit it to us, because that would make it less secret and less passionate."


Have an amazing day!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

: New Layout - I think :

Excuse the mess and clutter if things look a bit funny for awhile.
I am trying a new layout ... lol ... and things need moving around cos it looked weird the first time

So ... be back soon ... hopefully with everything in place
:)

DONE - YAY ... I think that everything looks like it's in the right place ... will soon see!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

:The Gates Promo:

I am really hoping that we get this show here in Australia ... looks like it could be okay. Anyone that does get to watch it, please drop back here with any comments letting me know what you think of it ... thanks xoxoxoxo

: Kindle Giveaway :

Moira Rogers' Sanctuary Unbound is released today and A Safe Harbor will be released on July 13. The first book features a lumberjack vampire while the second a bootlegger werewolf.
The release of these two novels calls for an epic contest and a throw down which will decide everything!
Who do you pick? A badass vampire lumberjack or a devious werewolf bootlegger? Time to choose a side because it is war! But what a fun war: swoonworthy, possessive, passionate males (a vampire and werewolf cannot be called simple men) and a chance to win a Kindle! All you have to do is leave a comment and you'll be entered in the giveaway, you can find the link to the full list of rules at the bottom of this post.


Okay - for me ... I am Team Vampire Lumberjack all the way.
Why you ask? Believe me ... I would love to live forever with the love of my life, never aging and having super enhanced talents - what a way to spend forever!

Disclaimer: This post is a part of Moira Rogers’ Creature Feature Kindle Throwdown Contest. By leaving a (meaningful) comment, you will be entered to win a Kindle from Amazon.com, or an alternate grand prize of $275 to spend at an online book retailer. For a full list of rules and more ways to win, visit the contest page.
http://moirarogers.com/blog/archives/2261

: My first Award for Denz Ramblings :


Thank you so much to THE SUBTLE CHRONICLER for this award. I am surprised and very happy to receive it. Check out her blog, follow, and be active on it! It's always nice to know that others read and comment on your postings.

The Rules for the award are:
1. Thank the person who gave you this award
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Pass the award along to
15 who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic for whatever reason! (in no particular order…)
4. Contact the picked and let them know about the award.

Now for the 7 things about myself;
  1. I think I was born into the wrong time.
  2. I have an amazing relationship with each of my children.
  3. I spend too much time online.
  4. I am a total Twilight Addict.
  5. I want to travel the world.
  6. I love all of Bon Jovi's music.
  7. I will one day be a famous author.

Now it's time to give this award to fellow bloggers.
THE THOUGHTS OF A BOOK JUNKIE
READING EXTRAVAGANZA
EX LIBRIS
THE WRITE WORDS

: Sex & The City 2 :


While wrestling with the pressures of life, love, and work in Manhattan, Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte join Samantha for a trip to Morocco, where Samantha's ex is filming a new movie.

The girls are back ... not a lot has really changed ... for me the movie took a little bit too long to kick in, and then thought they dragged it out - it didn't really need to be 2 and 1/2 hours long! There were the typical laughs that you expect to get from the girls ... Samantha is such a **** .... lol

I saw it - but hope that they leave it at that - and don't come back with a # 3 - if they do, Carrie and Big better be having a baby!

RATING - 7/10

: Read THE SHORT SECOND LIFE OF BREE TANNER for Free :

Welcome to BreeTanner.com – the official site where you can read The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner for FREE – a special gift from Stephenie Meyer to her fans.

This site will be live from noon EST on June 7th until midnight EST on July 5th. Please keep in mind that you can only read the book here – you won’t be able to download it to your e-reader or phone. And you can’t print it out.

http://ld-breetannerbook.libredigital.com/index.html

: Shadowland by Alyson Noel :


She always believed he was her destiny—but what if fate has other plans?

Ever and Damen have traveled through countless past lives—and fought off the world's darkest enemies—so they could be together forever. But just as their long-awaited destiny is finally within reach, a powerful curse falls upon Damen...one that could destroy everything. Now a single touch of their hands or a soft brush of their lips could mean sudden death—plunging Damen into a bleak afterlife in the Shadowland, an eternal abyss for lost souls. Desperate to break the curse and save Damen, Ever immerses herself in magick—and gets help from an unexpected source...Jude Knight.

Although she and Jude have only just met, he feels startlingly familiar. Despite her fierce loyalty to Damen, Ever is drawn to Jude, a green-eyed golden boy with magical talents and a mysterious past. She's always believed Damen to be her soul mate and one true love—and she still believes it to be true. But as Damen pulls away to save them from the darkness inhabiting his soul, Ever's connection with Jude grows stronger—and tests her love for Damen like never before...

Book 3 in the series - what the heck can happen now? Ever has been placed in a horrible position where she can't touch her soul mate - or risk losing him forever. How can anyone be so cruel?
Roman is still around, annoying the hell out of Ever with his smugness, and offering her the antidote to their problem - but at what cost?

I found this story kept flowing - knowing the introduction of Jude was always going to be another stumbling block in their relationship ... the attraction was minimal, and deep down Ever never swayed from her true love.

At the end of the book - the ultimate choice - just what would you do to keep your true love? Sacrifice the life of your best friend? I wasn't surprised by Ever's choice - and neither was Damen. The twists and turns keep coming in this book, making it impossible to put down, yet not wanting to finish .. as the next installment isn't out yet! Alyson certainly knows how to keep the reader turning the pages, and is brilliant at keeping the reader entertained. If you are a sucker for true love, you will love this book.

It will be interesting to see what unfolds in the next book ... DARK FLAME

RATING - 8/10

Monday, June 7, 2010

: Blue Moon by ALyson Noel :


Ever has a chance to bring her family back from the dead—but only if she's willing to sacrifice the guy she loves more than life itself.

Just as Ever is learning everything she can about her new abilities as an immortal, initiated into the dark, seductive world by her beloved Damen, something terrible is happening to him. As Ever's powers are increasing, Damen's are fading—stricken by a mysterious illness that threatens his memory, his identity, his life.

Desperate to save him, Ever travels to the mystical dimension of Summerland, uncovering not only the secrets of Damen's past—the brutal, tortured history he hoped to keep hidden—but also an ancient text revealing the workings of time. With the approaching blue moon heralding her only window for travel, Ever is forced to decide between turning back the clock and saving her family from the accident that claimed them—or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows weaker each day...

I liked this book - seeing Ever come out of her sullen ways and finding a love with Damen. Then to see her anguish as Damen begins to grow distant, and then the ultimate betrayal ... hooking up with Stacia. Ever knows that deep down inside the old Damen is still there, and that Roman, the new guy in school isn't what everyone thinks - she gets a cold sickly feeling in her stomach everytime he is around.

And when Haven & Miles begin to hang around with the cool kids at school, Ever is convinced that there is some sort of magic controlling all of them. Enlisting the help of Ava (psychic) Ever travels back to Summerland (wouldn't it be nice to go there!) and searches for the clues to help her save Damen.

I didn't see the twist coming at the end of the book with a so called "ally" but knew all along that Roman was behind everything. Good story line ... and now it's onto Shadow Land - book 3

This is a great book for teens and adults alike

RATING - 7/10


Sunday, June 6, 2010

: Book Storage :

Okay - so I am fast running out of storage for my books ... and my dvd's!
So I have been searching for a new bookcase ... and came across this one on a blog ... I love it! Looks so nice ... and just the perfect size to slot into that small space.

But then again ... I found this one on the IKEA website, and would work out okay too ... they have smaller and bigger bookcases ... so might just head over there on the long weekend and check them out in person.

I get a bit pedantic about my books - like to keep the same author's books together ... and even better, to have the same genre of books together as well.

How do you organize your books?

My pet peeve ... when an author does a series of books, and book # 4 (for example) is 1/2" taller than the other books in the series. Can't help it ... lol

I am off to snuggle down in a chair with BLUE MOON, a cup of coffee and possibly a blanket. My footy team is playing in a couple of hours (GO DOGGIES) ... so might just get myself well and truly comfortable ... xoxoxoxo

: Inspiration - June 6th 2010 :

You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith.
- Mary Manin Morrissey -

: Vanity Fair :


VANITY FAIR (2004)

Growing up poor in London, Becky Sharp (Witherspoon) defies her poverty-stricken background and ascends the social ladder alongside her best friend, Amelia

I love movies set in this period and Reece Witherspoon did an amazing job as usual portraying her character. Her determination drove her to climb the social ladder, but at what cost. Her friendship with Amelia suffers for awhile, and her marriage is not the fairytale that she expects it to be. And her son, giving him the life that she thinks will benefit him, without care or regard to what he or her husband wants. It just goes to show ... don't think that money can buy you happiness.
If anything, the movie could have been just a little shorter.


RATING - 7/10

: Law Abiding Citizen :


LAW ABIDING CITIZEN (2010)

A frustrated man decides to take justice into his own hands after a plea bargain sets one of his family's killers free. He targets not only the killer but also the district attorney and others involved in the deal.

I LOVED IT! Action was non stop ... Gerard Butler and Jaimie Fox the 2 perfect actors for these roles ... jumped in quite a few places, and could totally relate to how this man decided to take control of this bad situation. Never ever underestimate the human mind and heart for what it is capable of ... and don't get too complacent watching this movie. Every time I sat back and thought that things were just going to flow, I found myself surprised, or jumping out of my seat.

BRILLIANT!

RATING - 9/10

: When In Rome :


WHEN IN ROME (2010)

Beth is a young, ambitious New Yorker who is completely unlucky in love. However, on a whirlwind trip to Rome, she impulsively steals some coins from a reputed fountain of love, and is then aggressively pursued by a band of suitors.

Okay - going to say ... this would have to be one of the most ordinary movies I have seen in a long time. Lack Lustre ... predictable - just kept watching it, even though I knew how it would end.

Watched it once ... won't watch it again

RATING - 4/10

: Evermore by Alyson Noel :


The first book in Alyson Noël's extraordinary new series...

Since a horrible accident claimed the lives of her family, Ever can see auras, hear people's thoughts, and know a person's entire life story by touch. Going out of her way to avoid human contact and suppress her abilities has branded her as a freak at her new high school—but everything changes when she meets Damen.

Damen Auguste is gorgeous, exotic and wealthy. He's the only one who can silence the noise and random energy in her head—wielding a magic so intense, it's as though he can see straight into her soul. As Ever is drawn deeper into his enticing world of secrets and mystery, she's left with more questions than answers. She has no idea just who he really is—or what he is. The only thing she knows to be true is she's falling deeply and helplessly in love with him.

I have to admit, when I first started reading this book, I felt like it was going to be hard to keep my attention. We have sullen Ever, who is trying to hide from the world after the tragedy of losing her family in a car accident, that she totally takes the blame for. Ever can see, hear and feel everything without even trying, and she hates it. Close contact is something that she isn't comfortable with. Then Damon comes to her school, and throws her world into chaos as she struggles to control the way she feels.

And she has her friendship with Haven to think about - knowing too well, that Haven has already claimed 'dibs' on Damen, will she keep her distance so that Haven can try to hook up with Damen? And then that terrible Drina comes onto the scene, and there is a history with Damen that she doesn't understand, along with so many things about Damen that don't make sense. How does he always know the right thing to say, and how is he capable of moving so fast, that sometimes his movements seem like a blur.

I will say that I read this book in only a few hours - I feel that it is definately aimed at teenagers, but by the end of the book, I found myself wandering over to the bookshelf and grabbing BLUE MOON ... the next book in the series ... and it is now sitting on my desk , waiting for me to curl up in a chair near the heater to start reading.

RATING - 6/10

Saturday, June 5, 2010

: Events at Borders (Vic) Australia :

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner - Launch Parties

Come along and join in the fun and excitement in the hours leading up to the launch of the highly anticipated launch of Stephenie Meyer's The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner. Your favourite Borders store will be hosting a special launch party featuring exciting activities themed around The Twilight Saga. Please contact your favourite store to secure your place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.

(See the 'Find a Store' page for store details).

Where: All Borders Stores
Date: Saturday June 5
Time: 12:30pm AEST

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edward Cullen's 109th Birthday Party

You are cordially invited to attend the celebration of Edward Cullen 109th Birthday at Borders. There will be plenty of birthday fun to be had, make sure you RSVP to book your spot as soon a possible to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.

(See the 'Find a Store' page for store details).

Where: Borders South Wharf
Date: Sunday June 20
Time: 2:00pm

Where: Borders Highpoint
Date: Sunday June 20
Time: 2:30pm

Where: Borders South Yarra
Date: Sunday June 20
Time: 2:30pm

Friday, June 4, 2010

: TGIF - I love Fridays :


How peaceful does this lovely lady look? Just like the ladies that did my meditation class this morning ... very calm and relaxed by the time we finished.

As for me ... I have been out after class and got all the grocery shopping done - so I really don't have to go anywhere near the shops over the weekend ... YAY! Ooops yes I do ... I have to get the new Stephenie Meyer book THE SHORT SECOND LIFE OF BREE TANNER .. now how the heck could I forget that?

I also found a book sale happening ... so bought the following books :
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel
Shadowland by Alyson Noel
The Passion by Donna Boyd
The Winter Oak by James A. Hetley
So I think that I have added enough to my collection for this week. What new books have you bought? Or Won? Or received as a Gift or Prize this week? Love to know.

***********************************
- CHAPTER 12 ... FIRST SENTENCE -
Right now I am reading EAT PRAY LOVE by Elizabeth Gilbert and continuing on ... from last week ... Chapter 12 and first sentence is ....
In every major city in the Western World, some things are always the same.

Feel free to share the same info with me from the book you are reading


* NAMASTE *