Too Funny

Okay. I have watched this several times now and I just can't stop laughing.  I  know most of you have seen this already, but come on! Tom Cruise is actually funny and Rob is just too funny at the end. Dirt? LMAO!!

MTV Shows

(ARC Review) INSATIABLE by Meg Cabot

INSATIABLE

Author: Meg Cabot

Source: Around The World Tours

*thank you Princess Bookie*

• Hardcover: 464 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow (June 8, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 006173506X
• ISBN-13: 978-0061735066

SYNOPSIS:

Sick of hearing about vampires? So is Meena Harper. 

But her bosses are making her write about them anyway, even though Meena doesn't believe in them.

Not that Meena isn't familiar with the supernatural. See, Meena Harper knows how you're going to die. (Not that you're going to believe her. No one ever does.)

But not even Meena's precognition can prepare her for what happens when she meets—then makes the mistake of falling in love with—Lucien Antonescu, a modern-day prince with a bit of a dark side. It's a dark side a lot of people, like an ancient society of vampire hunters, would prefer to see him dead for.

The problem is, Lucien's already dead. Maybe that's why he's the first guy Meena's ever met whom she could see herself having a future with. See, while Meena's always been able to see everyone else's future, she's never been able look into her own.

And while Lucien seems like everything Meena has ever dreamed of in a boyfriend, he might turn out to be more like a nightmare.

Now might be a good time for Meena to start learning to predict her own future. . . .

If she even has one.

MY THOUGHTS:

After a hectic week of dentist appointments, toothaches, school field trips and many other things, I was finally able to really start reading this book and enjoying it.  It took me a few chapters to really start enjoying this read.  This was my first read by this author, but I had heard many wonderful things about her books.  This is not a quick read. With this ARC copy, it is 451 pages long. So I knew I had to sit myself down and just read without interruptions to fully enjoy this book. 

I am so glad I gave this book a second chance after the hectic week had ended.  I think if I wouldn't have given it the second chance, I would not have realized the wonderful story and characters that the author brought to life on those 451 pages. I loved how the author subtly pokes fun at the vampire craze that has erupted in the paranormal book world. Her jabs at it were great. Even the character name of Meena was great. If you are wondering what I am talking about, think Edward/Dracula/Bill/Eric all in one book with a touch of Sookie here and there. Meena is psychic and can sense when people are going to die. Not a fun talent to have. Plus she writes soap operas and must now write a storyline about vampires which she loathes. 

A book filled with witty writing, a sexy hero, a talented heroine who learns to embrace her talent, and an all around great read!  One that will leave you wanting to take a bite out of the vampire books again!

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

IMM: IN MY MAILBOX

Okay, I didn't make it to BEA (even though I wanted to) but I did have an awesome book haul week! I had plenty to drool over and make room for on my bookshelves. I think this was one of my biggest weeks in receiving things through the mail.  Some of you wanted to see what I get during the week, so I managed to take pictures and decided to share it with you. Now, this big of a haul is not every week, I was just depressed about everyone getting spectacular books at BEA and kind of went overboard shopping!

The top three books I won from DemonLover's blog and The Book Vixen shared her ARC copy of Beautiful Creatures with me since I was so far down on the wait list at the library still! The book marks are from DemonLover's  blog as well. I so need to make me some bookmarks!

This is what I ordered from Amazon last week and it finally came.  I only paid $3.00 for the whole series! I used my Amazon gift cards I earned on Swagbucks for these beauties! Not bad for just clicking on the site daily!

These are books I traded for on PaperBack Swap!  I love that site! Tons of readers to trade books with!  I have been waiting forever for Colters' Woman and I finally got that sucker! I can't wait to read it!

Here are some more books from PaperBack Swap.  I have heard that Ilona Andrews books are amazing so I knew I had to have them!

These are books I received for review: Blood Feud, Body Parts and Intimate Encounters. I received Shadow Bound from an author contest. The Gorgeous Game is for a book tour.  And Everlasting Desire was submitted to me signed from the fabulous Amanda Ashley! I love her dark vampire romance!

So that is my haul for the week. I might be missing some, but it was a hard week with tooth aches, dentist appointments, my daughters field trip, and migraines.  What did everyone else get?

Selling of ARCs is UNETHICAL people!

I was on Twitter earlier and I found a tweet from another book blogger mentioning how some people are selling their ARC copies on ebay that they received FREE from BEA 2010.  I want to point out a few things to these people out there doing this.

ARCs clearly state on the covers that they are not to be sold.  They are for review purpose and promotion only.  I have spoke with people in the publishing community before on this and they even go as far to say that the larger publishing companies will take people to court for this.  Now, maybe some people are new to the world of book blogging, but when it states it clearly on the covers that they are NOT to be sold, people should have some common sense.

This is why some publishing companies make it so hard for reviewers to obtain these sort of books to promote and review for everyone.  Yes, I occasionally get jealous over other bloggers getting those coveted copies I have so desperately wanted, but to sell it on ebay for an outrageous price unethically is just wrong.

I live on the west coast and was unable to attend BEA 2010 because I just don't have the money to travel back east.  I am drooling at what everyone was able to obtain, but I understand as well that most of what I have drooled over are from other book bloggers who know that it is unethical to sell them.  It frustrates me to no end to see people who attended BEA just because they live there and think they can sell them for a quick buck.  Do you even realize how hard bloggers sometimes have to work to even achieve receiving one of those coveted copies? Do you even understand how bloggers who are unable to attend these functions feel already and this ruins there chances of receiving one for review in the future?

I am approaching my one year blog anniversary, and I have worked very hard to keep my blog honest and to where it is today.  Now my blog may not be as huge and popular as other blogs, but I have let it grown honestly and with respect to the publishing companies. Believe it or not, those ARCs cost money to make and they come out of an authors earnings.  Author's do not receive money for those ARCs that are being sold on ebay.  The publishing company is not receiving any money either.

I am sorry for ranting on my blog about this, but I wanted to put it out there.  Yes, I want the publishers I work with to know that I DO NOT support ebay seller's in this.  I support the author's and publishing companies in doing what is right with ARCs.  I trade them with other bloggers, donate them to my local library and yes hoard them for keepsakes.  I just wish other people would do the same.

(ARC Review) I Love This Bar by Carolyn Brown

I LOVE THIS BAR
Author: Carolyn Brown
Source: SourceBooks
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402239262
• ISBN-13: 978-1402239267

SYNOPSIS:

She doesn't need anything but her bar...

Daisy O'Dell has her hands full with hotheads and thirsty ranchers until the day one damn fine cowboy walks in and throws her whole life into turmoil...

He's looking for a cold drink and a moment's peace...

Instead he finds one red hot woman. She's just what he needs, if only he can convince her to come out from behind that bar, and come home with him...

MY THOUGHTS:

What do you get when you have an independent woman who works in a bar, a sexy hero who likes to get what he wants, and an author who has some amazing writing skills?  You get I Love This Bar by Carolyn Brown.  Who doesn't love a rugged cowboy in tight booty fitting jeans with a smart mouth and strong will to go with it? I loved the authors story so much, that I had to reread a few parts just to get the ultimate thrill of the scene again.

Then the author takes it a step further and creates memorable side characters that kept me laughing and turning the pages even faster to see what was next!  She has done a wonderful job of kicking up a sexy new series that will leave you boot scootin' to the store to get your hands on it!

MY THOUGHTS:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

(ARC Review) FORGIVE MY FINS by Tera Lynn Childs

FORGIVE MY FINS

Author: Tera Lynn Childs

Source: Donated to the blog

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (June 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061914657
• ISBN-13: 978-0061914652

SYNOPSIS:

Lily Sanderson has a secret, and it's not that she has a huge crush on gorgeous swimming god Brody Bennett, who makes her heart beat flipper-fast. Unrequited love is hard enough when you're a normal teenage girl, but when you're half human, half mermaid, like Lily, there's no such thing as a simple crush.

Lily's mermaid identity is a secret that can't get out, since she's not just any mermaid—she's a Thalassinian princess. When Lily found out three years ago that her mother was actually a human, she finally realized why she didn't feel quite at home in Thalassinia, and she's been living on land and going to Seaview High School ever since, hoping to find where she truly belongs. Sure, land has its problems—like her obnoxious biker-boy neighbor, Quince Fletcher—but it has that one major perk: Brody. The problem is, mermaids aren't really the casual dating type—the instant they "bond," it's for life.

When Lily's attempt to win Brody's love leads to a tsunami-sized case of mistaken identity, she is in for a tidal wave of relationship drama, and she finds out, quick as a tailfin flick, that happily ever after never sails quite as smoothly as you planned.

MY THOUGHTS:

I desperately wanted to read this book after reading fabulous reviews about it and because author Alyson Noel told me I needed to read it ASAP.  When I was offered the book through another blogger, I jumped on the chance! I LOVED this book.

It was so refreshing to read a young adult book that was paranormal, but wasn't dark.  It was a fun read and light with characters with witty dialogue.  I loved Lily, even though she could be so shallow at times when deciding on a life mate based on looks.  Quince was a riot.  I loved his comical remarks and the way he handled everything.  I absolutely think Quince was the best character in the whole story! He made the book fun and pushed Lily's buttons all the time.  I loved the bathroom scene and the fun the writer can make out of anything on a page.  The book is the typical young romance with the Disney theme-like feel to it.  You could feel the bubbly personality of each character flowing smoothly on the pages.

I look forward to the next book in this series from the author and basically anything else the author can come up with.  She was a new to me author and have already ordered her other books she has written. A definite must have for your next young adult read!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

From zero to addicted in 4 books!

I know I have a bunch of reviews I need to get posted, but I wanted to discuss something first.  I was at the dentist today and the assistant to the dentist noticed me reading an ARC copy of Forgive My Fins.  She asked if it was good and I found myself rambling on and on about it and she told me she hasn't even read a book in years. GASP! The horror! How can someone not read a book in years? If I don't have a book to read within minutes of finishing another, I get withdrawls. I am talking about hands fidgeting, headaches, heartbreak, nose itching because it can't smell the printed pages and sweats. Thus, I started to think about when and how my obsession with books began.

I admit that when I graduated high school (we won't mention years here, haha), I was finished with reading books and just picked up the occasional magazines to read.  I was so tired of books in general, I didn't even go back to my local library.  Then my oldest daughter starts talking to me about these vampire books that she has been dying to read and I was intrigued. She finished the first book in one night. ONE NIGHT!  Now, you need to know that if it isn't a manga book, my daughter takes weeks usually to read one book.  I knew if it captured my daughters interest, maybe it would spark mine again. We all are familiar with the books she was talking about.

Yes, the Twilight series.  Now some people can't stand the series, but I own each one of them and I am thankful to have read them.  The Twilight series was devoured in 2 days max after I bought them.  I could not put them down.  This began my road of addiction to reading again.  I gobbled up all the vampire books I could find. I was hooked on Lynsay Sands and Amanda Ashley so quick my head was spinning. Then I discovered eroticas and romance books.  I fell quick and hard far even more authors.  Then imagine my shock when I stumbled over Anna's Book Blog and realized there was a whole world of book addicts and bloggers!  I started up my review blog and quickly started adding pages of my opinions on books.  Slowly my blog grew and I cannot believe how many other addicted book readers there are in the world.

I have met other readers who race to the book stores on release day and stand in line for hours just to meet a great author in person.  I noticed I am not the only person with so many books they are stuffed in every corner of the house.  You know what I am talking about--books in the bathroom, on the kitchen counters and yes I even have them in the laundry room.

So I say to all the addicted readers out there--stand tall and proud! You are not alone. I am an addicted book reader and hoarder.  I shall not be changed and I shall not be buried without a book in my hand!

My question is simple.  What book got you hooked on reading? Is there a certain author that stands out to you in your road to addiction?  Are you proud to be called a Book Addict?

ANOTHER NEW ECLIPSE TRAILER!!!

THE WOLF NEXT DOOR by Lydia Dare

THE WOLF NEXT DOOR

Author: Lydia Dare

Source: Sourcebooks

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402236964
• ISBN-13: 978-1402236969

SYNOPSIS:

They can't even be in the same room together...

Ever since their failed elopement years ago, Prisca Hawthorne has taunted, insulted, and in every way tried to push him away. If only her heart didn't break every time Lord William Westfield left her...

But staying apart is even worse...

Lord William throws himself into drinking, gambling, and debauchery and pretends not to care about Prisca at all. But when he returns to find a rival werewolf vying for her hand, he'll stop at nothing to claim the woman who should have been his all along.

Can Prisca forgive the unforgivable, or are the moon-crossed lovers going to be forced into a battle of wills that could be fatal?

MY THOUGHTS:

If you have not read this series yet, all I can say is why not?  This is one of the best series I have read in awhile. This is the third book in the series and the author did another amazing job of blending historical romance with the paranormal mixed in.  This book could be read as a stand alone, but to get the true feel of all the characters involved in the story, you should really read the first two.  Prisca is stubborn and strong willed since she has grown up with little female influence. Will was a great character in the fact that he is not what he seems at first.  What more can I say about this book besides go out and get the whole series!  You will enjoy the witty writing, the complicated romance and the characters that will grow on you quickly, and still be craving more from this author. 

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

WINNER!

The weekly giveaway for New Moon has now ended. I used Random.org to pick the winner and the lucky name that was picked is:

Laura Hartness

Congrats! You have 48 hours to respond with your mailing address or you forfeit the prize. Please email me at:

djsfoxylady @ gmail.com

Please include in the subject line: NEW MOON WINNER

Thanks to all who entered and the new giveaway will be posted some time today.

(ARC Review) STRANGE NEIGHBORS by Ashlyn Chase

STRANGE NEIGHBORS

Author: Ashlyn Chase

Source: Sourcebooks

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402236611
• ISBN-13: 978-1402236617

SYNOPSIS:

He's looking for peace, quiet, and a little romance...

There's never a dull moment when hunky all-star pitcher and shapeshifter Jason Falco invests in an old Boston brownstone apartment building full of supernatural creatures. But when Merry MacKenzie moves into the ground floor apartment, the playboy pitcher decides he might just be done playing the field...

A girl just wants to have fun...

Sexy Jason seems like the perfect fling, but newly independent nurse Merry's not sure she's ready to trust him with her heart...especially when the tabloids start trumpeting his playboy lifestyle.

Then pandemonium breaks loose and Merry and Jason will never get it together without a little help from the vampire who lives in the basement and the werewolf from upstairs...

MY THOUGHTS:

Strange Neighbors was a such a delight to read!  I was laughing throughout the book and loved each of the characters.  The writing was great and flowed nicely.  I almost hated to have to stop mid story to deal with real life because I was so engrossed in this fictional world of magic and fun. 

Merry decides to stand on her own feet and get a place of her own where she meets sexy owner Jason.  The chemistry between the two is obvious and you quickly find yourself falling in love with them.  You will also find quirky neighbors as well in the story.  We have ghosts, vampires, phone sex operators and more that help round out the story and give it even more to enjoy.

The author did a wonderful job of creating plenty of characters balanced with the right amount of suspense and humor. A job well done and I can't wait to read more from this author. 

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

ENEMY LOVER by Karin Harlow

ENEMY LOVER

Author: Karin Harlow

Source: Publisher

* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Pocket Star (May 25, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439109826
• ISBN-13: 978-1439109823

SYNOPSIS:

When you have no alternative, then you call in L.O.S.T. Because with the Last Option Special Team, it’s do or die. . . . 

It’s Jax Cassidy’s first mission for L.O.S.T.—one that will give the former cop who went rogue a chance to prove herself. Her assignment: gain the trust of assassin Marcus Cross . . . eliminate him . . . then take down Marcus’s mentor, Joseph Lazarus, a man with a bold eye on the White House. But the woman who’s known by her team for being a femme fatale succumbs to passion, only to discover Cross’s deadly secret. He’s a vampire, and Joseph Lazarus is his creator. 

Left for dead by his platoon in the violent hills of Afghanistan, Special Ops sniper Marcus Cross was given a second chance at life. His newly heightened skills make him the perfect killing machine, and as Lazarus’s right-hand man, he’s quickly rising to the top of his dark empire, purging enemies with speed and precision. Only when dangerous beauty Jax Cassidy is sent to bring him in does he begin to question Lazarus’s motives and his own actions. But when Jax’s life is threatened by the one thing that can destroy them both, Marcus must make a bitter choice—her death or his. 

MY THOUGHTS:

I love it when books start out with a bang and keep you interested from the get go.  What caught my interest with this book at first was the cover.  Then I read the first page and was hooked! This book has the suspense and thrill to keep you on the edge of your seat, the paranormal vampire to keep you sucked in, and the skillfully moving plot that will keep you reading until the last page. 

Now this book wasn't all about romance.  It was a darker read than I normally would pick up. I would classify this as more of an Urban Fantasy book.  It has more butt-kicking suspense than between the sheets love.

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

TEN THINGS I LOVE ABOUT YOU by Julia Quinn

TEN THINGS I LOVE ABOUT YOU

Author: Julia Quinn

Source: Publisher

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Avon (May 25, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061491896
• ISBN-13: 978-0061491894

SYNOPSIS:

Ten Things You Should Know About This Book 

1. Sebastian Grey is a devilishly handsome rogue with a secret.

2. Annabel Winslow's family voted her The Winslow Most Likely to Speak Her Mind and The Winslow Most Likely to Fall Asleep in Church.

3. Sebastian's uncle is the Earl of Newbury, and if he dies without siring an heir, Sebastian inherits everything.

4. Lord Newbury detests Sebastian and will stop at nothing to prevent this from happening.

5. Lord Newbury has decided that Annabel is the answer to all of his problems.

6. Annabel does not want to marry Lord Newbury, especially when she finds out he once romanced her grandmother.

7 is shocking, 8 is delicious, and 9 is downright wicked, all of which lead the way to

10. Happily. Ever. After. 

MY THOUGHTS:

I remember seeing some of this author's work at the book stores, but to be honest, I never usually buy historical romance.  This is a genre I need to really start looking at differently.  When I see books in this genre, I think of weird accents, dialogue that will not make sense, fancy gowns and arranged marriages. Now that I have read a few, this genre is really starting to grow on me. 

In this book I loved everything.  The romance was heart fluttering and well written.  Each of the characters had their own personality that leaped off of the pages. I loved how the author knew when to use witty dialogue and when to back off.  Everything about this story flowed perfectly from page one up until the last page.  

Julia Quinn has made me a believer in Historical Romance with her exceptional writing and effortless story telling.  This is one author that I will try out again with no worry of disappointment out of this genre. 

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

THIS WEEK'S RELEASE'S

Here are the release's scheduled for Tuesday May 25th, 2010.  If I am missing any and or if they were released at an earlier date, I apologize. I have had a bad toothache and haven't felt like double checking it today. If you know of some others, please let me know and I will add them to the release page. Thanks!

May 2010

5/25 The Darkest Passion by Gena Showalter
5/25 Long Tall Texans by Diana Palmer
5/25 Fade to Midnight by Shannon McKenna
5/25 Glimmerglass by Jenna Black
5/25 Sweet Magnolias-Honeysuckle Summer by Sherryl Woods
5/25 Infinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon
5/25 Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews
5/25 No Werewolves Allowed by Cheyenne McCray
5/25 Demon Princess: Reign Check by Michelle Rowen
5/25 Unholy Ghosts by Stacia Kane
5/25 Ten Things I Love About You by Julia Quinn
5/25 Daemon's Mark by Caitlin Kittredge
5/25 Moon Sworn by Keri Arthur
5/25 Early to Death, Early to Rise by Kim Harrison
5/25 Dane by Elizabeth Amber
5/25 The Lighter Side of Life and Death by C. K. Kelly Martin
5/25 The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
5/25 Married by Morning by Lisa Kleypas
5/25 Never Too Hot by Bella Andre
5/25 Cheat The Grave by Vicki Pettersson
5/25 One Dance With a Duke by Tessa Dare
5/25 Forbidden Highlander by Donna Grant
5/25 Perchance to Dream by Lisa Mantchev
5/25 Princess of Glass by Jessica Day George

NEVER LET YOU GO by Erin Healy

NEVER LET YOU GO

Author: Erin Healy

Source: BookSneeze

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (May 4, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1595547509
• ISBN-13: 978-1595547507

SYNOPSIS:

Losing everything has made Lexi hold those she loves tightly. Hell is determined to loosen her grip.

Lexi lives in the shadow of choices her husband made. Especially Grant’s choice to leave seven years ago, without a word. Her relationship with their daughter, Molly, is now the most important thing in her life. Lexi will do anything—work grueling hours, attend church on her only day off, sacrifice financially—just to see Molly smile.

When Grant shows up declaring his intent to re-enter their daughter’s life, Lexi is skeptical of his motives. She soon determines not to let him near Molly. Then a drug dealer named Warden arrives on Lexi’s doorstep, demanding payment of Grant’s old debts.

But that's just the earthly perspective. Staggering supernatural events are spilling into her world in real and shocking ways. Hell's fury is great, but Heaven's power is greater still.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is my first book by this author.  She has written other books with other authors, but this is her first solo book.  I didn't know what to expect from this author since I had nothing else to go on.  The author did a wonderful job of including the right amount of suspense and drama to keep you interested in the book. This isn't a light read though.  It deals with a lot of subjects that aren't happy or fun.  It reminds you that no matter how bad and hectic life can get, God is with you the entire way.  With all that being said, some things could have been better.  The author left some things unresolved up until the last chapter.  Some things could have been worked out a little earlier and the book could have been better.  It dragged a bit throughout the book. The author also throws in some paranormal to add to the story.  At times, it seemed a little too much. 

Still, for this being the authors first time at writing an entire novel by herself, she did a great job. 

MY RATING:

 
Okay book, but it left me wanting more! 3 STARS

COUNTESS OF SCANDAL by Laurel McKee

COUNTESS OF SCANDAL

Author: Laurel McKee

Source: Hachette Book Group

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Forever; Original edition (February 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446544787
• ISBN-13: 978-0446544788

SYNOPSIS:

As children, Eliza Blacknall and William Denton ran wild over the fields of southern Ireland and swore they would be friends forever. Then fate took Will away to England, while Eliza stayed behind to become a proper Irish countess.

Years later, Will finally makes his way home-as an English soldier sent to crush the Irish uprising. When he spies the lovely Eliza, he is captivated by the passionate woman she has become. But Eliza's passions have led her to join the Irish rebel cause, and Will and Eliza now find themselves on opposite sides of a dangerous conflict.

When Ireland explodes in bloody rebellion, Will's regiment is ordered to the front lines, and he is forced to choose between his duty to the English king and his love for Eliza and their Irish homeland.

MY THOUGHTS:

There were so many things that I didn't like about this book.  One, I hear enough about politics in real life, I don't want to read an over abundance of it in my reading.  Especially when the author is also trying to capture a romance on the pages.  It made it hard for me to even attempt to like the romance between Eliza and Will. They never seemed to click for me.  I felt like I was getting a history lesson instead of a romance. 

The only part that I did like about this book is the cover. I loved the richness of purple used and the jewelry on the woman was beautiful.  Like I have said before, I am very picky with my historical romance books because I am not a big fan of reading about past years unless the romance can grab me from the get go.  With that being said, it is just my personal opinion on this book because of being so picky and such. If you are a regular reader of historical romance, then please, try the book.  It just might be to your liking.

MY RATING:

 
I did not enjoy this book! 1 STAR

(ARC Review) LINGER by Maggie Stiefvater

LINGER

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Source: Donated to blog

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: Scholastic Press (July 20, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0545123283
• ISBN-13: 978-0545123280

SYNOPSIS:

In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other.  Now, in Linger, they must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping a very dangerous secret about her own well-being. For Sam, this means grappling with his werewolf past . . . and figuring out a way to survive into the future. Add into the mix a new wolf named Cole, whose own past has the potential to destroy the whole pack.  And Isabelle, who already lost her brother to the wolves . . . and is nonetheless drawn to Cole.

At turns harrowing and euphoric, Linger is a spellbinding love story that explores both sides of love -- the light and the dark, the warm and the cold -- in a way you will never forget.

MY THOUGHTS:

It has been so long since Shiver came out, I almost forgot who the characters were!  With that being said,  as soon as I opened the book to the first page, I was instantly transported back to Mercy Falls.  I still get the warm and fuzzy feeling with the romance between Sam and Grace.  The author did a wonderful job with these two characters.  She included romance, drama and aching suspense that had me pulling at my hair.  The book flowed nicely and everything about it kept me consumed with finishing it in one sitting. 

The characters have grown, the author introduces old and new characters to the story, and she kept the goosebumps on me like I was in the snow with Sam and Grace. The ending about did me in though. Amazing is the only word I can think of at the moment to describe it. Amazing AND Breathtaking!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

WHAT WOULD ROB DO? by Rob Sachs

WHAT WOULD ROB DO?

Author: Rob Sachs

Source: FSB Media

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Wiley; Original edition (April 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0470457732
• ISBN-13: 978-0470457733

SYNOPSIS:

What do you do if you get a bad haircut? Do you have trouble remembering people's names? What happens if you clog the toilet at a friend's house? NPR's Rob Sachs has given prudent and entertaining advice for dealing with all sorts of everyday challenges in his successful What Would Rob Do? podcast series, consulting with experts ranging from Fabio to Erik Estrada on dozens of daily dilemmas and common conundrums. Now he brings a wealth of this advice together in a single survival guide to fixing some of life's most vexing minor mishaps and speed bumps.

• Entertaining yet practical advice on what to do in tricky life situations
• Includes tips from interviews Sachs has conducted with celebrity experts
• Written by Rob Sachs, who has been a producer, reporter, and director for NPR shows including Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and Day to Day. Sachs also has a successful NPR podcast series

What Would Rob Do? tackles the full spectrum of life's absurdities and shows how to turn them into an opportunity for adventure, fun, and best of all, laughter.

MY THOUGHTS:

Sometimes you just need a good laugh when reading.  I love books based on real life humor! Who hasn't ever spilled something on shirt, in the wrong spot and at the wrong time? Who hasn't stuffed up a toilet either at home or at a friends? Come on, you know you have! The author did a wonderful job of discussing these predicaments that can arise. Some of the responses are not really helpful, but I think that is the whole point. Some of the best chapters were on getting Dog Poop stuck in your shoe and dealing with flatulence!  I laughed several times with this book.  A great read to get a good laugh and unwind from other serious reading. A great laugh out loud book!

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

ANOTHER NEW ECLIPSE TRAILER!!!

Fix-It and Forget-It Cookbook: 700 Great Slow Cooker Recipes

Fix-It and Forget-It Cookbook: 700 Great Slow Cooker Recipes 

Author: Phyllis Pellman Good

Source: FSB Media

* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Paperback: 283 pages
• Publisher: Good Books; Rev Upd edition (May 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 156148685X
• ISBN-13: 978-1561486854

SYNOPSIS:

A cookbook featuring over 700 great slow cooker recipes by author Phyllis Pellman Good.

MY THOUGHTS:

I am not a chef. I admit it. If it is a recipe that calls for tons of fancy ingredients and tons of time, then I forget it. I would rather it be a recipe that I can throw together quickly and with little effort. We live where it is hot as well, so I don't like staying in a hot kitchen for hours to cook one meal.  When I received this book, I was curious to know if it was going to be a cookbook that would help me with my dilemma.  

Surprisingly, it did help!  There are tons of recipes in this book that even a beginner on a low budget can do with little effort.  Now granted, it does require you to have a slow cooker, and it does ask for certain things such as certain kinds of soups, yet you could always substitute the ingredients to your own liking.  There were a few that I have already made with my slow cooker in the past, so I know these recipes are reliable and great!

Here is just a sample of the recipes you will find in the book:

Pizza Fondue, BBQ Beef Sandwiches, Chili, Chicken Soup, Spiced Coffee, Hot Fruit Punch, Gingerbread, Lemon Bread and Pot Roasts!

I was amazed at some of the things you can actually cook in a slow cooker.  For instance, I didn't even know you could cook bread in a slow cooker!  It also gives a list of substitutions, conversions, and hints on how to use your slow cooker better. I loved this cookbook and it makes it easy to just fix it and forget it!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

NEW ECLIPSE TRAILER

GUEST POST: Jill Mansell

Today on My Overstuffed Bookshelf, I have the pleasure of featuring author Jill Mansell.  She is the author of the recently released Rumor Has It. She was kind enough to take the time to offer a guest post for all of us.

My Daily Life and Writing Process

The thing about being a writer is the massive difference between most of your working days and...well, the rest of them. By this I mean that MOST days consist of dropping the kids off at school, coming home and settling myself down on the sofa surrounded by cushions and crisp (potato chips) packets and pens and writing pads and my iPod touch and the phone and the TV remote control. The plan is that I will then briefly skim through my emails and Twitter and Amazon and any blogs that may have mentioned my name, before settling down to several hours of uninterrupted writing. At the end of these few hours – oh, how time flies! - I will have completed a couple of thousand words – rather good ones, at that – of my current novel. I will then go and pick up the kids, come back, cook something for dinner, clean up the kitchen, eat food, watch TV, read a bit of someone else’s book (for a change!) and go to bed at around midnight.

In reality it doesn’t quite happen like that. I spend far too long on emails and Twitter and other such lovely time-wasting diversions. I make endless cups of coffee, eat lots and lots of snacks and scour the internet in search of ways of transforming myself into the kind of author for whom time flies while I’m writing. Because for me, it never does. And I’m starting to feel quite hard done by! I keep reading about these writers who wake at five am and start work in their nightdresses and work and work, utterly absorbed in their characters, until eventually they look up and discover that somehow, mystifyingly, twelve hours have passed and they’ve completed six thousand words. And I’m sorry, but it just isn’t fair! I’ve slogged away for twenty years now and never found an easy way of doing it. For me, writing books is slow and difficult. I’m too easily distracted. There are always other things I’d rather be doing. Why am I always so sloooow?

But as I say, that’s only MOST of my days. Happily, after all the hard work, there are also the remaining few, the sparkly exciting ones when I’m let out of the house, into the real world to meet people who like my books as well as other people who also write them and know what it’s like. And these are lovely, celebratory days. We drink champagne and talk and laugh and eat fabulous food and have fun, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile. The last time it happened we all met up at a glamorous awards ceremony and had a truly memorable day. And what do we writers always say to each other on these occasions? “Why can’t every day be like this?!”

RUMOR HAS IT by JILL MANSELL

IN STORES MAY 2010

Would you be tempted?
Newly single, Tilly Cole impulsively accepts a job offer in a small town as a “Girl Friday.” Fun job, country house, fresh start, why not? But soon she finds herself in a hotbed of gossip, intrigue, and rampant rivalry for the town’s most desirable bachelor—Jack Lucas.

Rumors of Jack’s “love ’em and leave ’em” escapes abound, and Tilly decides to do the mature, sensible thing... avoid Jack at all cost. But the more time Tilly spends with Jack, the more the rumors just don’t make sense. Tilly doesn’t know what to believe... and Jack’s not telling. 

About the Author

UK bestselling author Jill Mansell has written nearly twenty romances and women’s fiction novels, and sold over 4 million books.  A master of romantic comedy, her smart, sassy style has an irresistible appeal for women of all ages.  A full--time writer, Ms. Mansell worked for many years the Burden Neurological Hospital, Bristol. She lives with her partner and their children in Bristol, England. For more information, please visit http://www.jillmansell.co.uk/ or follow Jill on Twitter: http://twitter.com/JillMansell.  

For more information and to purchase this book,  please check out Sourcebooks, Inc.

NEW BOOKS FOR SALE!

If you are looking for some good deals on books, be sure to click on my Books For Sale page at the top navigation bar! I added some new ones tonight. I added some Manga's, A Burned House of Night book, etc. Newer posted books are at the top. Thanks!! Just email me with your picks. First come, First Serve!

ALBATROSS by Josie Bloss

ALBATROSS
Author: Josie Bloss
Source: Flux Books
* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Flux; 1 edition (February 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0738714763
• ISBN-13: 978-0738714769

SYNOPSIS:

He was music, everything else was noise.

Everyone at Tess's new school warns her that Micah is bad news-a heartbreaker. And a girl named Daisy is acting like she owns him. Still, Tess can't ignore her attraction to this brooding, brilliant, friendless emo guy who can turn on the charm-or heart-shredding scorn-at a moment's notice. Starting over in a new town after her parents' split isn't easy for Tess, and Micah feels like her first real connection. But then their bond suddenly feels like shackles.

Caught in an obsessive triangle of jealousy and codependence, can Tess learn to break away and find herself again?

MY THOUGHTS:

How do I write this review? I have so many emotions going through me after finishing this book that I don't even know where to start.

First of all, lets start with Micah. What an ass. Sorry for the language, but it is the only word to describe this guy.  He is controlling, moody and a jerk.  He thinks it is okay to play on the emotions of girls to make himself feel better.  I can't tell you how many times I wanted to beat the crap out of this boy if he were real! Then when you get further into the book, and come to the biting scene, you just want to scream and pull your hair out!

That brings me to Tess. How can she put up with the crap she gets from Micah?  I understand she just moved to the town, she had a horrible father--who I might add is just like Micah in ways--but that is no reason to want to fall into a relationship that is so emotionally damaging that you aren't yourself anymore.

The best part of this book is the friends that Tess have and Toby.  They try to tell her and to help her get out of the situation, but Tess doesn't want to listen.  I love the ending.  It is just what Tess needed.

This book is about emotional abuse, some physical abuse and overcoming the low self esteem and codependency that can happen in these types of relationships.  A great book for a young adult to read and recognize the signs of these types of relationships before it is too late.  A great read for adults as well that will open your eyes at teenage emotional abuse.  I just wish we could have dug deeper into why Tess fell for Micah in the first place.  It was rushed and didn't flow right at first.  Once you start reading it though, it gets better and sucks you in.

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book!

AGAIN!!!!!!!!!

SO WHAT DO YOU THINK??

What do you think of the new design?  I have been wanting something that is personalized for a while now and I never really had the extra money to pay a huge amount for a blog overhaul.  FINALLY, I found the perfect person to do it for me.  She is such a sweetheart to work with and she knew exactly what I wanted! Surprisingly she didn't run, she didn't bang her head on the desk (that I know of) LOL and she was very helpful!  For everyone who is looking for a little pizazz to their blog, I strongly urge you to check out her work.  She has a ton of free templates that will just knock your socks off!  

THANK YOU SO MUCH MELISSA!!!!!!!!

Be sure to update my blog button if you have it on your page!  It is just as snazzy as the rest of my blog!

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

I am getting a new design. Please be patient and the site will be up and running normally shortly.

CHASING PERFECT by Susan Mallery

CHASING PERFECT

A Fool's Gold Romance #1

Author: Susan Mallery

Source: Purchased at store

• Mass Market Paperback: 376 pages
• Publisher: HQN Books; Original edition (April 27, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0373774524
• ISBN-13: 978-0373774524

SYNOPSIS:

Welcome to Fool’s Gold, California, a charming community in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. There’s lots to do and plenty of people to meet, especially women. Because there’s just one tiny problem in Fool’s Gold: the men don’t seem to stick around. Maybe it’s the lure of big-city life, or maybe it’s plain old bad luck, but regardless of the reason, the problem has to be fixed, fast. And Charity Jones may be just the city planner to do it.

Charity’s nomadic childhood has left her itching to settle down, and she immediately falls in love with all the storybook town has to offer — everything, that is, except its sexiest and most famous resident, former world-class cyclist Josh Golden. With her long list of romantic disasters, she’s not about to take a chance on another bad boy, even if everyone else thinks he’s perfect just the way he is. But maybe that’s just what he needs — someone who knows the value of his flaws. Someone who knows that he’s just chasing perfect.

MY THOUGHTS:

As regular readers of my blog,  you know I love this author's writing! She is an auto-buy for me when she has new books being released. When this book was released, I immediately bought it! 

Welcome to Fool's Gold!  The way the author set up the town was amazing. I instantly felt like I was part of the town.  The characters were enjoyable and the writing was great! Charity is an independent woman who gets a new job as city planner in a town that is lacking men. She is introduced to Josh, who is a retired world-class cyclist trying to lay low in his hometown. 

Yes, it's the typical girl meets boy, girl falls for boy, they fall madly in love kind of story, but there is so much more that is involved in the story that you forget about the basic principles of the romance genre.  It has suspense in the form of a thief, side characters that will keep you laughing and curious to read their stories in future books, and romance that will leave your heart fluttering.

I so enjoyed visiting Fool's Gold and I can't wait to read the next book in the series. If Fool's Gold were a real town, I would be moving there in a heartbeat!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

MY SO-CALLED AFTERLIFE by Tamsyn Murray

MY SO-CALLED AFTERLIFE

Author: Tamsyn Murray

Source: Author Submission
PURCHASE HERE

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Piccadilly Press Ltd (February 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1848120575
• ISBN-13: 978-1848120570

SYNOPSIS:

Lucy Shaw is a ghost with problems. First, she’s stuck haunting the men’s toilets on Carnaby Street, not the best place to spend eternity. Second, no-one can see or hear her. And third, the man who killed her last New Year’s Eve is still on the loose. Is it any wonder her mood is blacker than a tramp’s fingernails? 

So when a lighting engineer called Jeremy walks into the toilet and asks her what she’s doing there she’s not exactly Miss Congeniality. But given that he’s the only person who can see her, she decides to overlook the fact that he’s drippier than a toddler’s nose and accepts his offer of help. Before she knows it, she’s out of the toilet and meeting other ghosts, including the emotionally unstable Hep and the lip-smackingly gorgeous Ryan.

Together, they track down Lucy’s killer, encountering meerkats, exorcists, and the world’s stroppiest tattoo artist along the way. Will their efforts to catch Lucy’s murderer succeed? What happens if they do? And just how do you go about snogging the boy of your dreams when you don’t actually have lips anymore?

MY THOUGHTS:

A refreshing read featuring ghosts! Just what I needed.  After all the paranormal suspense I have been reading, I wanted a good lighthearted read with the paranormal included in it.  Ever wonder if a ghost can fall in love? Yep. Ever wonder if they watch you? Yep. Ever want to meet one? Yep!! Well, in this book, we get to meet Lucy who was murdered in a men's restroom. EWW. Well, that is her thoughts too! She spends her time counting the tiles in the bathroom and wishing someone would see her.  Finally, Jeremy comes in and they are both surprised to find out he can see her!  

This book was cute and funny and the author made it fun for a young adult read for all ages to enjoy.  I loved the witty dialogue and I loved the characters that were part of the plot.  It flowed nicely and at the right pace. Who new ghosts could be so much fun instead of being spooky?

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book!