Saturday, April 30, 2011

Get Lucky (The Bounty Hunters) [Mass Market Paperback]


I've finished "Get Lucky" the 2nd book in her Bounty Hunters series by Lorie O'Clare.

From the Back Cover

In the high-risk game of bounty-hunting, one man will raise the stakes — and turn up the heat — higher than ever…


WHEN STRANGERS BECOME LOVERS
Checking into a Colorado ski lodge for some serious downtime, bounty hunter Marc King wants nothing more than to cool off and chill out. But then he meets London Brooke. She’s one of the hottest women Marc’s ever met, and the sparks between them could melt the Rockies. But this beautiful, intelligent, and beguiling stranger is hiding a secret from Marc that could get them both killed…

DESIRE CAN TURN DEADLY 

London knows she can trust a man like Marc. But how can she tell him about the mysterious package she receives — and the photos that threaten to expose her past? With time running out, London has no choice but to draw Marc into a dangerous world of blackmail and revenge. As a professional, Marc can’t refuse her. As a man, he can’t resist her. But the deeper he falls, the deadlier the game. And if he doesn’t play his cards right, he could lose London forever…

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks; First Edition edition (March 29, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780312372163
ISBN-13: 978-0312372163

My Review:

Storyline:

Her parents were always on the run after completing a scheme so London Brooke grew up in chaos. So her  reaction to her living out of a suitcase childhood is stability in one place. Thus she works at the Elk Ski Lodge in Aspen, Colorado.

Bounty hunter Marc King arrives at the Ski Lodge for some needed respite. He and London are attracted to one another when they first meet at the front desk. They begin a tryst, but soon afterward each receives packages from a stranger observing both of them. The pair shares what they know including her family's occupation as they fear their families may be in peril from an unknown dangerous adversary, whose motive is unclear to them.

The book is very fast paced since the first time Marc and London meet till the last page of the book!


I thought "The Game" the bad guys are playing is kind of strange and very unreal and unbelievable!

4/5

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Count to Ten [Mass Market Paperback]


I've finished "Count to Ten" by Karen Rose.

Product Description
In all his years in the Chicago Fire Department, Lieutenant Reed Solliday has never experienced anything like this recent outbreak of house fires - devastating, vicious and in one case, homicidal. He has another problem - his new partner, Detective Mia Mitchell. She's brash, bossy, and taking the case in a direction he never imagined.

Mia's instincts tell her the arsonist is making this personal. And as the infernos become more deadly, one look at the victims' tortured faces convinces her and Reed that they must work closer to catch the killer. With each new blaze, the villain ups the ante, setting firetraps for the people Reed and Mia love. The truth is almost too hot to handle: This monster's desire for death and destruction is unquenchable ... and for Mia he's started the countdown to an early grave.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (February 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780446616904
ISBN-13: 978-0446616904



My Review:

I highly recommend any book by Karen Rose if you love romantic thrillers with strong heroes and heroines and truly horrific killers.

Storyline:  Mia Mitchell is a detective with the Chicago Police Dept, she is the partner of Abe Reagan from I'M WATCHING YOU. Abe and Mia have been shot while on duty and Mia blames herself for not firing sooner. She also thinks Abe will blame her too. She is extremely surprised when his wife Kristen jumps her not because she did not save him, but because she has not visited him in the hospital. He has been worrying non stop about his friend and partner. 

Convinced that she is at fault for not protecting her partner, Mia has punished herself for weeks while avoiding her friends and family. When she is paired up with Reed Solliday and she is determined that he will never be more than a temporary partner.

Mia was raised by an abusive father who was also cop and she has never revealed the story to anyone. Her younger sister Kelsey is in jail for armed robbery and only she knows the horror both of them lived thorough. Mia has found it hard to trust a man and at 34 has pretty much given up hope of finding a man she can love and trust.

Lt. Reed Solliday is with the fire dept. He is a widower, who has turned his home into a shrine for the woman he lost, He has a 14 yr old daughter and his adopted sister lives close by to take care of them. In the last eleven years he hasn't met anyone like Mia who sets off feelings he has not had in a long time.

After being called to the scene of a horrific house fire, Lt. Reed Solliday quickly realizes that he has more than a case of arson on his hands. When they find a body inside, they quickly surmise that not only was the fire arson, but the person inside was murdered. Because of the homicide, Reed is forced to partner with Detective Mia Mitchell. At first Reed isn't too sure about Mia's capabilities as a Detective. He soon realizes that his first impressions of her are on the opposite end of the spectrum.

Characters:  Reed is truly a gentlemen because when he first encounters Mia he gives her his umbrella since it was pouring and he opens the doors for her and even feeds her.  All the women find him attractive especially his mustache.

Mia is very caring person who is quite vulnerable but she doesn't show it.  She really loves her younger sister Kelsey and is always visiting her all the time.  She really reminds me of Eve Dallas because both of them are a kick-ass heroine.

Romance:  I'm really glad that Reed and Mia got to know each other before falling into bed.  It was so much fun to read when both of them were fighting their attraction to each other.  I'm really glad they finally got together because they are perfect for each other (they love and support each other and also good at their jobs).
 
Killer(s):  The killer was really messed up in the head and had a really bad childhood.  Been through many foster homes and been abused, etc.  Didn't like how he reasoned to themselves about getting rid of certain victims just because they thought they were in the way!

5/5

Waiting on Wednesday


Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selections are:


10th Anniversary (Women's Murder Club) [Hardcover]

Product Description


For every secret

Detective Lindsay Boxer's long-awaited wedding celebration becomes a distant memory when she is called to investigate a horrendous crime: a badly injured teenage girl is left for dead, and her newborn baby is nowhere to be found. Lindsay discovers that not only is there no trace of the criminals--but that the victim may be keeping secrets as well.

For every lie

At the same time, Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano is prosecuting the biggest case of her life--a woman who has been accused of murdering her husband in front of her two young children. Yuki's career rests on a guilty verdict, so when Lindsay finds evidence that could save the defendant, she is forced to choose. Should she trust her best friend or follow her instinct?

There's a different way to die

Lindsay's every move is watched by her new boss, Lieutenant Jackson Brady, and when the pressure to find the baby begins interfering with her new marriage to Joe, she wonders if she'll ever be able to start a family. With James Patterson's white-hot speed and unquenchable action, 10th Anniversary is the most deliciously chilling Women's Murder Club book ever.

Product Details
Hardcover: 448 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (May 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316036269
ISBN-13: 978-0316036269



Sixkill (Spenser Mystery) [Hardcover]

Product Description


An extraordinary new Spenser novel from the beloved New York Times-bestselling author.

On location in Boston, bad-boy actor Jumbo Nelson is accused of the rape and murder of a young woman. From the start the case seems fishy, so the Boston PD calls on Spenser to investigate. The situation doesn't look good for Jumbo, whose appetites for food, booze, and sex are as outsized as his name. He was the studio's biggest star, but he's become their biggest liability.

In the course of the investigation, Spenser encounters Jumbo's bodyguard: a young, former football-playing Native American named Zebulon Sixkill. Sixkill acts tough, but Spenser sees something more within the young man. Despite the odd circumstances, the two forge an unlikely alliance, with Spenser serving as mentor for Sixkill. As the case grows darker and secrets about both Jumbo and the dead girl come to light, it's Spenser-with Sixkill at his side-who must put things right.

Product Details
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Putnam Adult (May 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399157263
ISBN-13: 978-0399157264

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

New Releases 2011 (Apr 26)

Dead By Morning [Paperback]

Product Description

The Darkest Sins He begins his work just before dawn, wielding a knife with the precision of a surgeon. Cunning and meticulous, he's always in control. Mercy is not an option. . .

Will Always

Maleah Purdue is tough, outspoken, and completely dedicated to her work at the Powell Security Agency. But her fearless exterior shatters when a madman begins killing her colleagues one by one, mimicking a notorious serial killer already behind bars. Working alongside top profiler Derek Lawrence, Maleah will do anything to find the murderer, even if it means playing a psychopath's twisted mind games.

Come To Light

No one connected to the Agency is safe. No one is beyond suspicion. For as Maleah and Derek piece together the clues, they uncover a chilling legacy of lies and brutal vengeance--and a killer who has been hiding in plain sight all along. .

Product Detail
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Zebra; 1 edition (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1420110357
ISBN-13: 978-1420110357



Hush [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description

National bestselling author Cherry Adair introduces an edgy, sexy new suspense series with this exhilarating international tale of hide and seek.
A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.

Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.

A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, deathdefying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.

An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead — at any cost.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Pocket Star; Original edition (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439153825
ISBN-13: 978-1439153826



When You Dare (Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor) [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description

Professional mercenary Dare Macintosh lives by one hard and fast rule: business should never be personal. If a cause appeals to him and the price is right, he'll take the mission he's offered. But then the lovely Molly Alexander asks him to help her track down the men who'd had her kidnapped — and for the first time, Dare's tempted to combine work with pleasure.

Fiercely independent, Molly vows to trust no one until she's uncovered the truth. Could the enemy be her powerful estranged father? The ex-fiancĂ© who still holds a grudge? Or the not-so-shy fan of her bestselling novels? As the danger heats up around them, the only anchor Molly has is Dare himself. But what she feels for him just might be the most frightening thing of all….

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0373775717
ISBN-13: 978-0373775712

Monday, April 25, 2011

Secrets to the Grave [Hardcover]


I've finished "Secrets to the Grave" the sequel to "Deeper than the Dead" by Tami Hoag.

Product Description

#1 New York Times bestselling author Tami Hoag returns with her second thriller in the Deeper than the Dead micro series, exploring the early days of forensic investigation, the characteristics of innocence-and the nature of evil.

Marissa Fordham had a past full of secrets, a present full of lies. Everyone knew of her, but no one knew her.

When Marissa is found brutally murdered, with her young daughter, Haley, resting her head on her mother's bloody breast, she sends the idyllic California town of Oak Knoll into a tailspin. Already on edge with the upcoming trial of the See- No-Evil killer, residents are shocked by reports of the crime scene, which might not have been discovered for days had it not been for a chilling 911 call: a small child's voice saying, "My daddy hurt my mommy."

Sheriff's detective Tony Mendez faces a puzzle with nothing but pieces that won't fit. To assist with his witness, Haley, he calls teacher-turned-child advocate Anne Leone. Anne's life is hectic enough - she's a newlywed and a part - time student in child psychology and she's the star witness in the See-No-Evil trial. But one look at Haley, alone and terrified, and Anne's heart is stolen.

As Tony and Anne begin to peel back the layers of Marissa Fordham's life, they find a clue fragment here another there. And just when it seems Marissa has taken her secrets to the grave, they uncover a fact that puts Anne and Haley directly in the sights of a killer:  Marissa Fordham never existed.

Product Details
Hardcover: 464 pages
Publisher: Dutton Adult; First Edition edition (December 28, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780525951926
ISBN-13: 978-0525951926


My Review:

I highly recommend this book if you like a series that uses old methods to solve the crimes and if you like a lot of red herrings and twists and turns.

Storyline:  The book opens with a horrific crime scene depicting the aftermath of the brutal knife murder of single mother Marissa Fordham. Her four-year-old daughter, Haley, was also attacked and left for dead, languishing for two days with her mother's corpse before being discovered.

Detective Tony Mendez is tapped to head up the investigation, and knows from recent experience to make use of a tremendous resource located in town, former FBI Agent Vince Leone, one of the pioneers in the field of behavioral profiling.

Mendez also seeks assistance from child advocate Anne Navarre Leone, herself nearly a victim the previous year of the so-called "See No Evil" killer that plagued Oak Knoll (the case which initially brought her then FBI Agent, now husband Vince Leone to town). Together they must try to help a traumatized child recover and, if possible, provide them with information to help catch her mother's killer.

As with Deeper than the Dead, Secrets to the Grave is set in the mid-80's, which adds an interesting twist to the reader's experience.  Secrets to the Grave takes readers back to a time when detectives still had to slog through reams of paperwork by hand and spend all day on the phone in order to track down information that could be found within minutes today by using computers and the internet.

Romance: Vince and Anne are newly weds and have been for 4 months now.  You can really feel they love and respect each other.  It was so sweet!  Tony has also fallen in love but doesn't want to rush his love interest since she is dealing with a cheating husband.

Killer(s): One killer just wanted to protect their reputation and the other was for revenge!  The killer out for revenge was not a really nice person and liked to control people to suit their needs. The murder scene was quite a sight to read about!


4/5

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Deadly Dreams (The Mindhunters) [Paperback]



I've finished "Deadly Dreams" the 5th book in her Mindhunter series by Kylie Brant.





Product Description

Risa Chandler's prescient dreams of death and murder haunted her nights. They also proved invaluable for Adam Raiker's brilliant team of forensic criminologists, the Mindhunters, until a tragic end to one case shattered Risa's confidence and drove her into seclusion. But for Risa, there's no hiding from death - or from her dreams.

Product Details
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Berkley (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780425240687
ISBN-13: 978-0425240687

My Review:

Storyline: Risa Chandler once worked for an elite organization until an unfortunate incident happened which resulted in the death of a young child and several injured officers. She was also injured and as she recuperates, Risa has doubts about whether to stay with the elite 'Mindhunters' team.

She soon finds herself reluctantly paired with homicide detective Nate McGuire. As a consultant, they hope to use her skills because Risa has vivid nightmares of actual murders. Unfortunately, her dreams are  frustrating bits and pieces. However, the police are very desperate and want to use her unusual abilities to solve and hunt down a deadly serial killer who targets cops.

Romance:  Really enjoyed the romance between Rita and Nate because he started to believe in her abilities and they took time to get to know each other before jumping into a relationship.

I highly recommend this series if you really like tough heroes and heroines in a gripping suspense.

The only thing was the print was kind of small so it was harder to read!

4/5

Saturday, April 23, 2011

In the Mail Saturday 2011 (Apr 23)



In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received these in the mail this week.

For Review:


Chasing Fire [Hardcover] - Received Tuesday 

Product Description

The number-one New York Times-bestselling author delves into the world of elite firefighters who thrive on danger and adrenaline-men and women who wouldn't know how to live life if it wasn't on the edge.

There's little as thrilling as firefighting-at least to Rowan Tripp. The Missoula smoke jumpers are in Rowan's blood: her father is a legend. She's been fighting fires since her eighteenth birthday. At this point, returning to the wilds of Montana for the season feels like coming home-even with reminders of the partner she lost last season still lingering.

Fortunately, this year's rookie crop is one of the strongest ever-and Gulliver Curry's one of the best. He's also a walking contradiction, a hotshot firefighter with a big vocabulary and a winter job at a kids' arcade.

Everything is thrown off balance when a dark presence lashes out against Rowan, looking to blame someone for last year's tragedy. Rowan knows she can't complicate things with Gull-any distractions in the air or on the ground could mean the end-but if she doesn't find someone she can lean on, she may not make it through the summer. . . .

Product Details
Hardcover: 480 pages
Publisher: Putnam Adult (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780399157448
ISBN-13: 978-0399157448


Won:


Final Scream [Paperback] - Received Wednesday

Product Description

As white-hot flames sear the dark night, a killer waits in the trees, watching the mill burn, listening for the screams - the only proof that justice has finally begun for the sins of long-ago. For journalist Cassidy Buchanan, this inferno is a living nightmare - a reminder of the horrible, mysterious fire that destroyed her wealthy family seventeen years ago - and of Brig McKenzie, the handsome hell raiser accused of setting the blaze. That tragic crime has never been solved, and already the whispers have begun in Prosperity, Oregon - another fire, more deaths, and one common denominator - Cassidy herself. Cassidy came home to Prosperity to put the past behind her, but it seems the past isn't finished with Cassidy. Someone doesn't want her to uncover the chilling truth...someone who has killed before and will kill again...a cold-blooded psychopath who is only waiting to hear her...

Product Details
Paperback: 496 pages
Publisher: Zebra (July 26, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0821777122
ISBN-13: 978-0821777121


Twice Kissed (Zebra Romantic Suspense) [Paperback]

Product Description

Marquise Walker has vanished without a trace. There are few clues and much speculation on her sudden disappearance. But the truth is more terrifying than anyone can even imagine...Maggie McCrae would do anything to find her identical twin sister - even if it means stepping into her unfamiliar shoes. Walking through Marquise's wild, uninhibited life is a revelation for Maggie, proof that she knew very little about her twin's darker side and her connection to the only man Maggie ever loved, Thane Walker. Now he's the man she shouldn't trust, a man who could be her best hope...or a cold-blooded killer...The deeper Maggie digs, the more she is drawn into the web of her own past...to a twisted family legacy of desperate deceit, betrayal, and revenge...each secret bringing her closer to a final, shocking truth - and to the identity of a killer who's closer than she thinks...
 
Product Details
Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Zebra (July 25, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0821779443
ISBN-13: 978-0821779446


Thanks Penguin Canada and Reviews from Martha's Bookshelf!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Breaking the Rules: A Novel (Troubleshooters) [Hardcover]


I've finished "Breaking the Rules" the 16th book in her Troubleshooters series by Suzanne Brockmann.


Product Description
Izzy Zanella wasn’t looking for another reason to butt heads with his Navy SEAL teammate, and nemesis, Danny Gillman. But then he met Danny’s beautiful younger sister, Eden. When she needed it most, he offered her a place to stay, a shoulder to cry on — and more. And when she got pregnant with another man’s child, he offered her marriage. But Eden’s devastating miscarriage shattered their life together — and made the intense bad blood between Izzy and Danny even worse.


Now Eden’s back, and she’s on a mission to rescue her teen brother, Ben, from their abusive stepfather. Even if she and Izzy can prove that their broken marriage is still in one piece, winning legal custody of Ben is a long shot. But they’re not alone: Danny and his girlfriend, Jenn, offer to help, and he and Izzy agree to bury the past and fight for Ben’s future.


As they plan their strategy, Izzy and Eden grapple with the raw passion that still crackles between them —while Danny and Jenn confront new depths in their own rocky relationship. But events take a terrifying turn after Ben befriends a girl fleeing a child prostitution ring. When the young runaway seeks refuge with Eden and Izzy, her pursuers kidnap Ben — and a deadly standoff begins. Now they must all pull together like never before and strike back, swift and hard, to protect their unconventional little family and everything they hold most precious.


Product Details
Hardcover: 528 pages
Publisher: Ballantine Books; First Edition first Printing edition (March 22, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0345521226
ISBN-13: 978-0345521224



My Review:


I highly recommend this series if you love a sexy Navy Seal hero with a kickass heroine in an action packed mystery thriller.


Really glad to see Jules take part in a rescue mission and his speaking interactions with the guys!  Very enlightening conversation!


Storyline:  The first time Navy SEAL Izzy Zanella saw Eden Gillman, he fell head over heels. And when she was pregnant by another man and in need of help, Izzy offered her marriage and anything else she could want. But when Eden suffered a miscarriage she took off and putting as much distance between herself and Izzy as possible.


Now Eden needs help again. Her teenage brother, Ben, is in danger. To get Ben away from their stepfather and safely in her custody, Eden needs Izzy to stand by her and prove that they can give Ben the ideal home. Eden would do anything to keep Ben safe and Izzy's willing to play knight in shining armor once more. Only now, old wounds aren't so easy for him to ignore. Izzy wants Eden as his wife, in every way, but he knows he can't trust her. To make things worse, Danny, Izzy's teammate and Eden's older brother is also along for the ride, as is his girlfriend, Jenn. Danny and Izzy have never gotten along, Eden's relationship with Danny is very tumultuous and Danny's relationship with Jenn is going anything but smoothly. Can the four of them put aside their problems long enough to gain custody of Ben?


Ben has befriended a teenager who has escaped from a child prostitution ring and the girl's captors are on the hunt for her - and will kill anyone who might know where she is.


Romance:  Eden and Izzy's problems stemmed from a lack of trust and communication, which means results in "big misunderstandings."  I wish they had an open mind and listened to one another earlier. 


The secondary romance between Danny and Jenn is very sweet.  Danny is head over heels in love with Jenn but he messed up in the past and she's very wary of believing that his claims of love are the real thing.


Killer(s):  The killers were quite vile and sadistic in their killings.  They had no remorse and no respect for women/girls.  They use them and treat them like a speck of grain.


4/5

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selections are:


When You Dare (Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor) [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description

Professional mercenary Dare Macintosh lives by one hard and fast rule: business should never be personal. If a cause appeals to him and the price is right, he'll take the mission he's offered. But then the lovely Molly Alexander asks him to help her track down the men who'd had her kidnapped — and for the first time, Dare's tempted to combine work with pleasure.

Fiercely independent, Molly vows to trust no one until she's uncovered the truth. Could the enemy be her powerful estranged father? The ex-fiancĂ© who still holds a grudge? Or the not-so-shy fan of her bestselling novels? As the danger heats up around them, the only anchor Molly has is Dare himself. But what she feels for him just might be the most frightening thing of all….

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0373775717
ISBN-13: 978-0373775712

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

New Release 2011 (Apr 19)

Eve [Hardcover]

Product Description

The #1 bestselling author delivers the first in a trilogy that will begin to answer questions that have haunted her legion of fans for over a decade, in her newest novel of breathtaking suspense

Eve Duncan’s mission in life is to bring closure to the families who have experienced the agony of a missing child. As a forensic sculptor, she is able to piece together bones, create a face, and bring an identity to a child who would have otherwise gone unidentified…maybe forever. Eve is brilliant, and driven, and tormented--because her own daughter, Bonnie, was taken from her years ago. And Eve has never discovered what happened to her. But now a name from the past resurfaces, thanks to CIA agent Catherine Ling who knows all too well what it’s like to lose a child.

After teaming up with Agent Ling to find her missing son, Eve and Catherine share a bond forged by their mutual pain. Now, Catherine challenges Eve with a name: John Gallo. A man from Eve’s past. A man, seemingly raised from the dead, whose whereabouts are unknown. Could Gallo be the missing piece to the puzzle that has haunted Eve for years? Why was he in Atlanta just before Bonnie’s disappearance? With a brilliant narrative that goes back to Eve Duncan’s early life, exploring her history and motivations like no other novel before, Eve reveals long-guarded secrets and is guaranteed to leave Johansen fans panting for more — soon to come in Quinn (October 2011).

Product Details
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press; First Edition edition (April 19, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312651201
ISBN-13: 978-0312651206

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Scones & Bones (A Tea Shop Mystery) [Hardcover]


I've finished "Scones and Bones" the 12th book in her Tea Shop Mystery series by Laura Childs.


From Publishers Weekly


Charleston tourist notes enhance Childs's charming 12th tea-themed cozy featuring Theodosia Browning, proprietor of the city's Indigo Tea Shop (after 2010's The Teaberry Strangler). During the Heritage Society's Pirates and Plunder show, someone steals a diamond-embedded skull cup possibly fashioned from the skull of pirate Edward Teach (aka Blackbeard) right beneath the noses of Theo and Drayton Conneley, Theo's master tea blender. Even worse, the robber fatally stabs college kid Rob Commers, the society's history intern, and assaults Camilla Hodges, the society's office manager. While plucky Theo, her faithful shop employees, and CPD's Det. Burt Tidwell chase a nasty killer, Theo feels romantically torn between her boyfriend, chef Parker Scully, and an attractive newcomer, Max Scofield, a local museum's PR director. As usual, everyone finds time for abundant tea breaks. Tempting recipes include creamy dreamy parfait and lemon chess pie.
 
Product Details
Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Berkley Hardcover (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425238962
ISBN-13: 978-0425238967


My Review:


Storyline:  Theodosia and her right-hand man, master tea blender Drayton Conneley, attend the heritage society's "Pirates and Plunder" party which features all kinds of historical pirate memorabilia but at center stage is a diamond-embedded cup made from a human skull, believed to be that of Blackbeard himself. When the cup is stolen and a guest is murdered in the process, Theodosia finds herself once again on the trail of a killer, putting herself and her friends at risk of becoming his or her next victim.


Characters:  Theodosia and Drayton both own the teashop and Haley is their chief.  All three have different personalities but work well together.  Love the way Drayon and Haley banter with one another.  Some great lines!


Romance:  Theodosia is dating chef Parker but is wildly attracted to Max the local museum PR director.  She and Max have shared a couple of spine tingling kisses which leaves her confused between her Parker and Max.


Killer:  Wow never expected the killer to be that certain person and you didn't find out until near the end who it was.  This person thought their relative was wronged and wanted revenge.


I love the way Laura incorporated the Blackbird legend into the storyline and I certainly want to go visit her Tea Shop!


4/5


Thanks Laura from Penguin Canada for sending me this book to review, greatly appreciated!

Library Haul 2011 (Apr 17 - 23)



Here's the list of books I picked up from the library this week:

Hardcover:

1. Secrets to the Grave - Tami Hoag

Softcover:

1. Count to Ten - Karen Rose
2. Whisper Falls - Toni Blake
3. Hidden in Shadows - Hope White
4. Darkwood Manor - Jenna Ryan

What books did you pick up from the library this week?

Saturday, April 16, 2011

In the Mail Saturday 2011 (Apr 16)


 In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received these in the mail this week.

For Review:


Hush [Mass Market Paperback] - Received Tuesday

Product Description

National bestselling author Cherry Adair introduces an edgy, sexy new suspense series with this exhilarating international tale of hide and seek.

A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.

Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death — where they don’t know the rules.

A one-night stand that will change his life forever.

Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, deathdefying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.

An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.

Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Pocket Star; Original edition (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439153825
ISBN-13: 978-1439153826

Thanks Simon and Schuster Canada!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

ARC Review: Shiver of Fear (The Guardian Angelinos) [Mass Market Paperback]


I've finished "Shiver of Fear" the 2nd book in her Guardian Angelino series by Roxanne St. Claire.

Product Description

The legacy that haunts her . . .


The mystery she must solve . . .


A man who threatens to reveal her secrets . . .


and break her heart.

Burned by a failed marriage, former FBI agent Marc Rossi wants back in the investigation game with no emotional strings attached. Taking an assignment for his enterprising Angelino cousins, he heads to Northern Ireland to pry a key piece of evidence from a missing socialite-any way he can. But when the ice queen turns out to be warm, beautiful, and on a secret mission of her own, the job becomes a passionate reminder of what happens when duty and desire mix. The daughter of an infamous fugitive, Devyn Sterling has survived betrayal only to find that her mother has mysteriously disappeared. When her search uncovers secrets, lies, and threats, Devyn and Marc must trust each other when every instinct says they can't . . . and a terrorist wants to make sure they won't live to try.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Forever (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780446566599
ISBN-13: 978-0446566599

My Review:
 
Storyline: Former FBI agent Marc Rossi wants back in the investigation game so he joins his cousin's  security and investigation firm, The Guardian Angelinos as an consultant.  Heading to Northern Ireland, his mission is to extract information from a missing socialite and get her out of there. But the ice queen turns out to be a warm and beautiful woman -- a woman with a mission of her own. As the daughter of an infamous fugitive, Devyn Sterling wants to find her biological mother and hopefully find the connection she never had with her adoptive parents. But her mother may just be one of the bad guys. When their investigation uncovers lies, secrets, and international terrorism, Devyn and Marc must trust in each other to survive.

Characters: Mark is a very sexy alpha male who's very charming, funny, dreamy and who's very calm and collected in dire situations.  He's very caring and protective of his woman. 

Devyn is a very beautiful, smart, stubborn and feels very alone since her adoptive parents are the ones to show their affections. 

It was a delight to see Vivi, Zach, Uncle Nino and even Agent Lang who seems like an intriguing character. 

Romance: The relationship starts off slowly but is very believable and tense.  When they finally get together it was so hot and sexy you really want them to end up with each other.  When they finally admit they love each other it was very sweet.

Killer:  The killers are quite vicious and will kill anything or anyone to accomplish their goal. 

Can't wait to read Vivi's story "Face of Danger".

5/5

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection are:


Dead By Morning [Paperback]

Product Description

The Darkest Sins

He begins his work just before dawn, wielding a knife with the precision of a surgeon. Cunning and meticulous, he's always in control. Mercy is not an option. . .

Will Always

Maleah Purdue is tough, outspoken, and completely dedicated to her work at the Powell Security Agency. But her fearless exterior shatters when a madman begins killing her colleagues one by one, mimicking a notorious serial killer already behind bars. Working alongside top profiler Derek Lawrence, Maleah will do anything to find the murderer, even if it means playing a psychopath's twisted mind games.

Come To Light

No one connected to the Agency is safe. No one is beyond suspicion. For as Maleah and Derek piece together the clues, they uncover a chilling legacy of lies and brutal vengeance -- and a killer who has been hiding in plain sight all along. . . 

Product Details
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Zebra (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1420110357
ISBN-13: 978-1420110357


Hush [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description
In the sultry heat of a deadly jungle, lovers must pull off a dangerous and daring rescue.

A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.

Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death – where they don’t know the rules.

A one-night stand that will change his life forever.

Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, death-defying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life…until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.

An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.

Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead – at any cost.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Pocket Star; Original edition (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439153825
ISBN-13: 978-1439153826

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

New Release 2011 (Apr 12)

Chasing Fire [Hardcover]

Product Description

The number-one New York Times-bestselling author delves into the world of elite firefighters who thrive on danger and adrenaline - men and women who wouldn't know how to live life if it wasn't on the edge.

There's little as thrilling as firefighting - at least to Rowan Tripp. The Missoula smoke jumpers are in Rowan's blood: her father is a legend. She's been fighting fires since her eighteenth birthday. At this point, returning to the wilds of Montana for the season feels like coming home -even with reminders of the partner she lost last season still lingering.

Fortunately, this year's rookie crop is one of the strongest ever - and Gulliver Curry's one of the best. He's also a walking contradiction, a hotshot firefighter with a big vocabulary and a winter job at a kids' arcade.

Everything is thrown off balance when a dark presence lashes out against Rowan, looking to blame someone for last year's tragedy. Rowan knows she can't complicate things.

Product Details
Hardcover: 480 pages
Publisher: Putnam Adult (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780399157448
ISBN-13: 978-0399157448

Saturday, April 9, 2011

In the Mail Saturday 2011 (Apr 9)



In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received these in the mail this week.


Deadly Dreams (The Mindhunters) [Paperback]


Product Description

Risa Chandler's prescient dreams of death and murder haunted her nights. They also proved invaluable for Adam Raiker's brilliant team of forensic criminologists, the Mindhunters, until a tragic end to one case shattered Risa's confidence and drove her into seclusion. But for Risa, there's no hiding from death - or from her dreams.

Product Details
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Berkley (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780425240687
ISBN-13: 978-0425240687

Thanks Penguin Canada!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

The Night Season [Hardcover]


I've finished "The Night Season" the 4th book in her Archie Sheridan series by Chelsea Cain.

Product Description

With the Beauty Killer Gretchen Lowell locked away behind bars once again, Archie Sheridan — a Portland police detective and nearly one of her victims — can finally rest a little easier. Meanwhile, the rest of the city of Portland is in crisis. Heavy rains have flooded the Willamette River, and several people have drowned in the quickly rising waters. Or at least that’s what they thought until the medical examiner discovers that the latest victim didn’t drown: She was poisoned before she went into the water. Soon after, three of those drownings are also proven to be murders. Portland has a new serial killer on its hands, and Archie and his task force have a new case.

Reporter Susan Ward is chasing this story of a new serial killer with gusto, but she’s also got another lead to follow for an entirely separate mystery: The flooding has unearthed a skeleton, a man who might have died more than sixty years ago, the last time Portland flooded this badly, when the water washed away an entire neighborhood and killed at least fifteen people.

With Archie following the bizarre trail of evidence and evil deeds to catch a killer and possibly regain his life, and Susan Ward close behind, Chelsea Cain — one of today’s most talented suspense writers — launches the next installment of her bestselling series with an electric thriller.

About the Author

Chelsea Cain’s first three novels featuring Archie Sheridan—Heartsick, Sweetheart, and Evil at Heart—have all been New York Times bestsellers. Also the author of Confessions of a Teen Sleuth, a parody based on the life of Nancy Drew, and several nonfiction titles, she was born in Iowa, raised in Bellingham, Washington, and now lives in Portland, Oregon, with her family.

Product Details
Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Minotaur Books; First Edition edition (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312619766
ISBN-13: 978-0312619763

My Review:

I highly recommend this series if you like dark mystery with truly horrific killers and a tortured hero.

Storyline: Gretchen Lowell is behind bars so Archie has kicked his addiction to vicodin and concentrating on his job. He still misses it sometimes.

The Williamette River keeps rising. Years ago, it was breached and thousands died. Now, bodies keep being found, drowned. Archie thinks nothing of it until the medical examiner finds a puncture mark on the victim which makes them believe it was Murder. But when they then examine the other bodies, they find the same puncture mark. They now have a serial killer on their hands. With more tests done, they come to the conclusion that a rare octopus is biting the victims, causing almost instant paralysis. When Archie's dear friend and partner Henry is bit, Archie can hardly breathe himself. They get Henry to the hospital in time, but the bite is deadly and all they can do is wait for the inevitable.

Reporter Susan Ward has been making a bigger name for herself in the newspaper industry. Archie allows her on almost every crime scene, and Susan is usually the first to scoop up the competition. She's been working on a really old story of when the town of Vanport (a place not far from their current location) was flooded and many were killed. She's found a skeleton and believes it to be one of the victims. Archie doesn't see what the connection could be and concentrates on his current case.

As his investigation deepens, they realize a young boy is involved (a boy kidnapped over a year ago). Archie promises the parents he will retrieve and bring him home. But if Archie keeps jumping in the river to save people, he won't be able to save himself. His lungs are very weak from the torture he sustained from Beauty Killer Gretchen Lowell.

The stakes are heating up and the killer is closer than they think. As the water rises, the deaths climb and no where near the water is safe, especially not knowing where the killer lurks with the deadly octopus.

Characters: It was great to see Susan play a bigger part in this book. She has matured alot and has grown strong without losing any of her quirkiness.

Archie is such a great detective when he's thinking clearly and not doped up with vicodin and lusting after Gretchen. It's really great to see he has cleaned up his addiction and being friendly to his ex-wife and getting along with his kids.

Was kind of disappointed only saw Gretchen at the end!

Killer: This is one sick killer who really gets off on his octopus killing. He has also conditioned the boy to return back to him and makes the boy watch his killings and participate! He definately has no remorse and we later find out why he is killing. Glad the killer got what they deserved in the end!

4/5

Thanks Anna from FSB Media for sending me this book to review, greatly apppreciated!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection are:


Eve (Eve Duncan) [Hardcover]

Product Description

The #1 bestselling author delivers the first in a trilogy that will begin to answer questions that have haunted her legion of fans for over a decade, in her newest novel of breathtaking suspense

Eve Duncan’s mission in life is to bring closure to the families who have experienced the agony of a missing child. As a forensic sculptor, she is able to piece together bones, create a face, and bring an identity to a child who would have otherwise gone unidentified…maybe forever. Eve is brilliant, and driven, and tormented -- because her own daughter, Bonnie, was taken from her years ago. And Eve has never discovered what happened to her. But now a name from the past resurfaces, thanks to CIA agent Catherine Ling who knows all too well what it’s like to lose a child.

After teaming up with Agent Ling to find her missing son, Eve and Catherine share a bond forged by their mutual pain. Now, Catherine challenges Eve with a name: John Gallo. A man from Eve’s past. A man, seemingly raised from the dead, whose whereabouts are unknown. Could Gallo be the missing piece to the puzzle that has haunted Eve for years? Why was he in Atlanta just before Bonnie’s disappearance? With a brilliant narrative that goes back to Eve Duncan’s early life, exploring her history and motivations like no other novel before, Eve reveals long-guarded secrets and is guaranteed to leave Johansen fans panting for more — soon to come in Quinn (October 2011).

Product Details
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press; First Edition edition (April 19, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312651201
ISBN-13: 978-0312651206

Monday, April 4, 2011

Cold Dawn [Mass Market Paperback]


I've finished "Cold Dawn" the 3rd book in her Black Falls series by Carla Neggers.

Product Description

The small town of Black Falls, Vermont, finally feels safe again — until search-and-rescue expert Rose Cameron discovers a body, burnt almost beyond recognition. Almost. Rose is certain that she knows the victim's identity…and that his death was no accident.

Nick Martini also suspects an arsonist's deliberate hand. Another fire killed an arson investigator in California months ago. Now the rugged smoke jumper is determined to follow the killer's trail…even if it leads straight to Rose. Nick and Rose haven't seen each other since they shared a single night of blind passion, but they can't let memories and unhealed wounds get in the way of their common goal — stopping a merciless killer from taking aim straight at the heart of Black Falls.

About the Author

Carla Neggers is a New York Times bestselling author whose books have been translated into dozens of languages and earned her critical praise and the loyalty of readers.

A graduate of Boston University and a former journalist, Carla grew up in rural western Massachusetts, where as a child she used to climb trees to write. She lives with her family in Vermont and travels extensively. www.CarlaNeggers.com

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Mira; Original edition (October 26, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780778328247
ISBN-13: 978-0778328247

My Review:

I highly recommend this series if you like great characters and gripping and horrific deaths, etc.

Storyline: The small town of Black Falls, Vermont, finally feels safe again — until search-and-rescue expert Rose Cameron discovers a body, burnt almost beyond recognition. Almost. Rose is certain that she knows the victim's identity…and that his death was no accident.

Nick Martini also suspects an arsonist's deliberate hand. Another fire killed an arson investigator in California months ago. Now the rugged smoke jumper is determined to follow the killer's trail…even if it leads straight to Rose. Nick and Rose haven't seen each other since they shared a single night of blind passion, but they can't let memories and unhealed wounds get in the way of their common goal — stopping a merciless killer from taking aim straight at the heart of Black Falls.

Characters:   We get to meet some of the characters from both of the other books in the series. The Cameron's, The Harpers, the Neal's, an ex-NAVY SEAL (Grit), an ex-reporter (Meryl)  and Nick the best friend of Sean Cameron. Nick is ruggedly handsome, a multi-millionaire, a smoke jumper and business partner with Rose's brother Sean.  He comes to Vermont to find who killed his friend an arson investigator earlier in the series and spent a night of passion with Rose one time in California.

Rose is the younger sister of TJ, Elijah and Sean beautiful, a loner, a search and rescue expert with her dog Ranger.  She slept with Nick in California, made some terrible mistakes and finds a dead body (burnt) of someone she knows.  The body happens to be Derek Cutshaw a guy she had a couple of dates with.

Romance:  You can really see and feel the sparks between Rose and Nick.  Glad that the romance didn't resume until near the end and they got to know each other better and realize they were in love.  Everytime they were on the same page I swear the pages were going to go up in flames.

Killer:  The killer is ruthless and a sociopath who is a serial arsonist and part of a network of killers.  The killer is quite brutal in their killings and kills anyone that gets in their way.

4/5

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Library Haul 2011 (Apr 3 - 9)


Here's the list of books I picked up from the library this week:

Hardcover:

1.  Breaking the Rules - Suzanne Brockmann

What books did you pick up from the library this week?

Saturday, April 2, 2011


I've finished reading "Promises in the Dark" the 2nd book in her Shadow Force series by Stephanie Tyler.

Product Description

On the run, in each other’s arms, with one last chance to survive

A rugged Navy SEAL, Zane Scott was part of a failed mission to rescue Dr. Olivia Strohm from abduction by the terrorist group Dead Man’s Hand — and her anguished screams have haunted him ever since. So when he gets word that the beautiful physician has escaped from her captors in Africa, he’s got personal reasons to storm the continent and save her.

Like her would - be liberator, Olivia carries the burden of a dark secret from her past. Ruthless and relentless, the DMH has threatened to hunt her down —and to systematically hurt anyone she’s close to. The last thing she wants is to be rescued — even by someone as shockingly handsome as Zane. Yet the hotheaded special ops hero has come for her, and together she and Zane just might have a shot at not only stopping DMH’s reign of terror, but also saving what’s left of their souls.
About the Author
Stephanie Tyler is the author of Lie with Me and the Navy SEAL trilogy: Hard to Hold, Too Hot to Hold, and Hold On Tight. She lives in New York with her husband, her daughter, and a crazy Weimaraner named Gus.
 
Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Dell; Original edition (November 23, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0440245974
ISBN-13: 978-0440245971

My Review:
 
I highly recommend this series if you love hot and sexy alpha males with tough as nails females with alot of hot steamy action.
 
The Dead Man's Hand (DMH) terrorist cell kidnapped Dr. Olivia Strohm to teach a lesson to those who defy them; the doctor blew up one of their illegal organ transplant facilities. They tortured her and pumped drugs into her in order to keep her under their control while warning away other opponents. However, they failed to anticipate her inner strength as she escapes from captivity.

After witnessing and being powerless to prevent the violent abduction of Dr. Oliva Strohm by the terrorist organization DMH (Dead Man's Hand), Zane Scott has been haunted by her cries for help and a picture of her that he holds close. Zane's brother Dylan, has finally gathered enough intel to enable Zane to find Olivia and bring her home. Zane therefore takes leave from his duties as a Navy SEAL and travels to Sierra Leone, a place that for him holds traumatic childhood memories.
 
Back home in the US, Zane's brother, Delta Force operative Caleb Scott and his team have received intel indicating software developed by computer genius Vivienne Clare's father has come into the hands of DMH. The software has the potential to cause catastrophic events at home and abroad if used by the terrorists. Caleb therefore follows orders and brings Vivienne in for interrogation, and while it seems she has no knowledge of DMH or that they have come into possession of the software evidence suggests otherwise. Vivi isn't at all what Caleb expected and despite being involved in a dangerous mission with DMH breathing down their necks he is sexually attracted to her and she to him.

We are also introduced to Dr. J., a missionary with military background who runs a number of clinics throughout the country offering health care to the people in the surrounding villages. Additionally, he recruits mercenary soldiers who are sent to defend the clinics from any number of threats. Dr. J's right hand man is Tristan, a former Army Ranger with a traumatic history related to his youth and discharge from the service. Tristan is tough, lethal and sexy as hell. Though he has not formerly attached himself to anyone or anything, Dr. J has earned his allegiance and Tristan has established relationships with the people in the neighboring villages. Rowan is also introduced into the mix, newly discharged from the Army where she served as a medic in Iraq. Rowan is a widow having lost her husband years earlier under the most horrific of circumstances (9/11).   These two people are humanity's walking wounded and they act on an instantaneous attraction and find love under the worst, most dangerous of circumstances.

I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend this series!  Alot of high octive action through out the whole book from the first page to the end of the book.

Really loved how the romantic elements were handled in the book though I wish that Caleb and Vivi had their own book.  Hope to see both in future books plus Tristian and Rowan and Dr. J.

4/5

Friday, April 1, 2011

April Releases

1st
In the Arms of Stone Angels - Jordan Dane
Get Lucky - Lorie O'Clare

5th
Deadly Dreams - Kylie Brant

12th
Chasing Fire - Nora Roberts

19th
Eve - Iris Johansen

26th
Hush - Cherry Adair
Dead by Morning - Beverly Barton
When You Dare - Lori Foster