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2013 Reading Challenge
Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) has
read 0 books toward her goal of 75 books.
New-To-Me Authors
2013 reading goal:
15 new-to-me authors.
1) Stacy Gail
2) Heather Massey
3) Sidney Bristol
4) Ann Mayburn
5) Thea Harrison
6) Virna DePaul
7) Mary Quast
8) Molly Harper
9) Eleri Stone
10) PJ Schnyder
11) Kait Ballenger
12) Denise L. Wyant
13) Lucy Monroe
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Saturday, March 30, 2013
Saturday Conversations 03/30/2013
Waiting on a book...
Yes... that was me this week (and the past year!)... Waiting for the release of the eleventh Black Dagger Brotherhood book... Lover At Last by JR Ward. I was so excited for this book that I actually paid the ridiculous price for the Kindle version - just so I could have it download on to my Paperwhite at midnight. I've been excited about books before, but never so much as Lover At Last. It's not my favorite series, it's not the best story out there, but something about JR Ward keeps me coming back for more.
Also, a driving factor for getting to the book immediately and through it so quickly were concerns over finding out spoilers and/or reading comments and reviews. I didn't want to know anything about the book, so that drove me to finish it as quickly as possible.I was so excited to read the book that I did a few things I've never done before for a book...
First, I put down the book I was in the middle of reading so I could start Lover At Last. I HATE mixing up books and I've never not finished a book from beginning to end before starting the next one. Yet, for Qhuay, I was more than willing!
Second, I set my alarm for 4:00AM to get up early to start reading it. (I was told it would download on my Kindle after 3:00AM EDT). But I was SO excited that I actually woke on my own at 3:02AM and started reading!
Third, I took the day off from work so I could read it right away.
Finally, I bribed my kids to leave me alone so I could finish this book (okay, I've done that one before!)
I finished the entire 600ish page book just after midnight that day. I did take time to feed my kids and take them to their karate classes. I did do some laundry. But I read off and on for 21 hours.
I don't know if I could do that again. It would have to be a special book. It would also need to be one that is an easy, light read.
So... what about you... What lengths have you gone to in order to read/finish a book? What was the book - or if you haven't before... is there a book/series you would go to the extreme to read?
Thanks for stopping to chat!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Review: Lover At Last by JR Ward
Lover At Last
Author: JR Ward
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Publisher: NAL
Black Dagger Brotherhood #11
ISBN: #978-0451239358
Genre: Paranormal Romance, m/m romance
Format(s): Hardcover (608 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Purchased with my own funds
About the book:
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Qhuinn, son of no one, is used to being on his own. Disavowed from his bloodline, shunned by the aristocracy, he has finally found an identity as one of the most brutal fighters in the war against the Lessening Society. But his life is not complete. Even as the prospect of having a family of his own seems to be within reach, he is empty on the inside, his heart given to another....
Blay, after years of unrequited love, has moved on from his feelings for Qhuinn. And it’s about time: The male has found his perfect match in a Chosen female, and they are going to have a young—just as Qhuinn has always wanted for himself. It’s hard to see the new couple together, but building your life around a pipe dream is just a heartbreak waiting to happen. As he’s learned firsthand.
Fate seems to have taken these vampire soldiers in different directions... but as the battle over the race’s throne intensifies, and new players on the scene in Caldwell create mortal danger for the Brotherhood, Qhuinn finally learns the true definition of courage, and two hearts who are meant to be together... finally become one.
What I’m talking about:
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Like almost every other fan of JR Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series, I have been waiting for this story since Blay and Qhuinn shared their first (extremely passionate) kiss in the sixth book, Lover Enshrined (June 2008). I am happy to report that for me, Lover At Last met my expectations and is a wonderful addition to this long-running series.
There is a lot that happens during Lover At Last, and I’m not going to try to give a play-by-play summary, but rather hit a few of the high points. Overall, I felt the writing was tight and the flow of the book much better than those in recent history. For the first time in I don’t know how long, I actually enjoyed every section and subplot, and I didn’t skip over any parts. All of the pieces created a richer story that I simply adored.
First and foremost, this is the story of the love between Blay and Qhuinn. Although there is a lot going on around the couple, the book never loses focus on the ending point -- their union. I knew that with their shared history, this wasn’t going to be an easy journey, but thankfully, their path to HEA wasn't made to be ridiculously difficult. Prior to this book, we started seeing a more mature Qhuinn, and his transformation and growth continued during Lover At Last. At one point when he thought he might die, Qhuinn’s first regret was that he would never know is unborn daughter followed by the fact that he hadn’t told Blay his true feelings. As a parent, I got that and adored Qhuinn even more because of it. He has grown up.
Blay... poor Blay. The young warrior has been hurt so many times by Qhuinn, and frankly, I didn’t blame him one iota when he continued to push Qhuinn away, even letting him believe Blay loved Saxton. I adored reading Blay’s innermost thoughts as he wondered if Qhuinn truly was growing up. His confusion and hesitation was all too real and perfectly done. I also loved Blay’s interactions with his family. Those parts of the story added value by demonstrating and contrasting the backgrounds of both warriors.
Luckily for us, we didn’t have to wait the entire book for some sexy hookup time. At first, the couple’s sexual encounters were driven by anger and filled with desperation. It was very emotional to watch Qhuinn beg, taking whatever he could get, and have Blay push away when he felt they were getting too close. In the end, their romance was both passionate and sweet. The epilogue was probably one of the best scenes ever in a BDB story. *sigh*
As far as the numerous side stories go, I have a hard time picking which is my favorite. First, we pick up again with the Lessers - and before you cringe and want to skip... these sections are not overly long and contain and/or initiate other powerful scenes that I enjoyed immensely. One of my absolute favorite scenes in the entire book falls into this category. While hunting Lessers, the Brotherhood finds itself in danger of losing one of their own. Qhuinn steps up big time and attempts to fly a plane to take the injured warrior home. The journey and conclusion was powerful and brought tears to my eyes. Just wonderful!
There is also the continuing drama of Layla’s pregnancy (with Qhuinn). Again, I was prepared to be annoyed, but let me tell you, Layla grew some big ones since the last book. She’s a much more confident woman and I love how she stood up for herself when Havers tried to put her into a tough place. And the time Layla and Qhuinn spend together furthers my adoration for Qhuinn and how both characters have matured.
The book also deals with Xcor and his Band of Bastards. Xcor is simply evil and twisted, and it will be interesting to see how Ms. Ward finds a way to redeem him. There is also a significant side story for Trez (thinking he may be the next book?!), and another dealing with Assail - the vampire who took over Rehv’s drug business in Caldwell. Both were left with significant loose ends that will hopefully be addressed in the next book. Finally, there is a very small and somewhat subtle thread dealing with Wrath, Beth and the idea of an heir/child. I really enjoyed the set up for some major (future) drama and conflict there.
Honestly, I truly enjoyed Lover At Last from beginning to end and every bit in between. Blay and Qhuinn (and the reader) finally got the story they so richly deserved. I was delighted that every part of the book, including the numerous side stories, were well-written and enjoyable. Overall, I feel that as a whole book, Lover At Last is the best yet of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4.5 stars,
BDB,
Black Dagger Brotherhood,
GLBT,
JR Ward,
m/m romance,
NAL,
paranormal romance,
Twimom Review
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7
comments
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Review: Lady of Ashes by Christine Trent
Lady of Ashes
Author: Christine Trent
Release Date: Feb. 26 2013
Publisher: Kensington
Lady of Ashes #1
ISBN: #978-0758265913
Genre: Historical Mystery
Format(s): Paperback (420 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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In 1861 London, Violet Morgan is struggling to establish a good reputation for the undertaking business that her husband has largely abandoned. She provides comfort for the grieving, advises them on funeral fashion and etiquette, and arranges funerals.
Unbeknownst to his wife, Graham, who has nursed a hatred of America since his grandfather soldiered for Great Britain in the War of 1812, becomes involved in a scheme to sell arms to the South. Meanwhile, Violet receives the commission of a lifetime: undertaking the funeral for a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. But her position remains precarious, especially when Graham disappears and she begins investigating a series of deaths among the poor. And the closer she gets to the truth, the greater the danger for them both…
What Una is talking about:
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Lady of Ashes is a book that piqued my interest. I grew up watching Agatha Christie and Masterpiece Theatre with my mom. There is a very soft spot in my heart for historical mysteries. Only recently have I started indulging that love. I requested this book from Twimom as a way to rekindle a love of a genre and fondly remember my mother as the anniversary of her death looms. What better novel to read than a historical mystery about a female undertaker in Victorian England who may have uncovered a serial killer?
First, let me say that I thoroughly enjoyed Lady of Ashes, once I let go of waiting for and eagerly searching for the mystery. As the beginning book of a new series, there was quite of bit of building to where we discover the apparently odd deaths. However, that is not to say that it is a bunch of historical “window dressing” drama. Ms. Morgan is a fascinating character. I found myself drawn to her, understanding her passion for a rather odd trade for a woman, especially a married one. Her gentile nature combined with her iron backboard presented a female character that not only was realistic in the period, but understandable as she accepted her role in society (to an extent) even while pushing boundaries.
By a twist of fate, Ms. Morgan is accidentally acquainted with the Prince Consort, who is impressed by Violet’s skills as an undertaker. Here is an excerpt that nicely sums up how Ms. Morgan is viewed by her peers:
The queen handed the card back to her husband with a sniff. “You say this woman was actually embalming a man? How horrifying for you, my love.”
Albert tucked the card inside the top desk drawer of the Blue Room at Windsor Castle, originally built as a fortress and now the longest-occupied palace in Europe. The present residents enjoyed luxurious state apartments, renovated early in the century by George IV. Victoria brought further improvements to the castle, including running water, but had refused the installation of gas lights, preferring candles as so many Britons did.
“Quite the opposite. I was enthralled. Curious that we aren’t doing it here. It seems a worthy endeavor to me.”
“Hardly!” Victoria wrinkled her nose. “It sounds like a disgusting practice to me. And being performed by a woman, no less.”
“I thought so at first, too, but she was very competent, liebchen.” He tapped the desk drawer. “Remember Ms. Morgan when my time comes.”
This excerpt is also an excellent example of how Ms. Trent adds those historical facts without it reading or feeling like a history lesson. That aspect is something that tends to dissuade me from reading some historical novels; if I wanted a history lesson, I would take a class or buy a textbook. However, these facts and milestones are seamlessly woven into the storyline, enriching the storytelling.
The only complaint I had, which was really just a misunderstanding of the summary excerpt I had read, made me feel as if the whole of the novel was a murder mystery. It is only a small portion (and nearer to the end), but what was a complete surprise to me (quite enthrallingly) were the domestic conflicts that seemed to take center stage. The novel summary in this review is far more accurate a description and should not give the misconception I had. The trials that Ms. Morgan faces for a Victorian woman, I feel, would have broken anyone else. I truly admire her will and strength of character. Reading about this period in her life was truly fascinating.
The escape I found in Lady of Ashes was immensely enjoyable and a world I look forward to revisiting. The next book in the series is scheduled for sometime next year. If you have any interest in historical mysteries, I am confident you would enjoy Lady of Ashes.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Win Registration to RT2013 or RT2014
It’s Forever’s 10th anniversary, and in celebration they are giving two lucky fans a chance to win free registration to attend the RT BookLovers Convention! ($474 value*)
Enter for a chance to win a 'Readers' registration to this year's convention May 1 - 5, at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center, or next year’s convention in New Orleans, May 14th - 18th.**
You will also receive:
- An invitation for you and a guest to the Forever Pre-Ball Cocktail Party at the New American
- Membership in the “Forever Fanatics” club - an exclusive group who will be invited to preview advanced reads and exclusive promotional opportunities for an entire year!
*If you have already purchased your registration for this year’s conference, we will check with the conference coordinators and reimburse your fee.
**Winners are responsible for their own travel arrangements, accommodations, meals and incidentals.
Review: Wrecked by Shiloh Walker
Wrecked
Author: Shiloh Walker
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
ISBN: 978-0425264454
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format(s): paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher / NetGalley
About the book:
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In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
What VampBard’s talking about:
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I simply adored Wrecked. There's no other way to put it. If I'd had a 3-hour block to sit and read, I would have finished it in one sitting. This sweet friends-to-lovers story was just what I needed to heat up a cold & dreary weekend.
The fact that I completely love and identify with a book by Shiloh Walker isn't anything new. The woman needs to stop rooting around in my head for story ideas. Kidding. She needs to tap me on the shoulder and remind me that the story is out of my psyche next time, however, before I begin reading. My connection to her characters, this time her female character, is simply amazing. I felt as though I was walking in Abigail's shoes for the entire story. Her situation, and the way she figures out Zach needs to be a part of her life, was a situation with which I could completely and utterly identify. As the story unfolds, we see how a whim turns into something simply hot and intensely serious, no matter what is written in this new journal. HEAT INDEX: 4 flames out of 5.
As the story opens, we find Abby seemingly broken and seeking solace from her best friend and confidante, Zach. Having grown up together on the TV show in which they co-starred, Zach and Abby became unusually close. So close that Zach was perpetually saving her from different situations. After the break-up with her fiancé', Abby was a hot mess...for a short while. I can completely identify with Abby. Sometimes, we think we know what's best for us; sometimes we are simply going through the motions of life, trying to please others and fulfill the expectations others and society place on us.
Secondary characters, including Zach's brothers and Abby's mom (she who shall not be named), truly round out the ensemble of Wrecked. Each plays a significant role in the story, much like people involved in our own lives guide and shape our future in ways we sometimes don't recognize.
I think that we see Abby's realization that she has romantic feelings for Zach in a unique and revealing manner. Ms. Walker isn't in-your-face with the fact that these are truly two beautiful people. As matter of fact, in getting to know the characters – especially Abby – we see that she's a beautiful person on the inside before she is described to us in a way that allows us to believe it's more than a love-sick dude's impression of a girl. Watching Abby learn that she has romantic feelings for Zach was intense, but heart-warming.
One of my favorite things about Zach is the way he thinks. Even though he refuses to tell Abby that he loves her, Zach is constantly communicating and honest with Abby – about everything except his true feelings about her. He says to Abby, while she's still mourning her wedding, “...You need to quit focusing so much on how you think your life is supposed to go and just let your life go. Live it, sugar. Stop trying to control it.”
Some of Zach's hot broody-ness could have gone away... but it didn't take away from the story for me. I actually loved his gothness, and the fact that he's Mr. Artistic with a tat shop didn't hurt (says the ink-addicted girl...). I really 'got' Zach. I mean, most everyone, at one point or another, has had an unrequited love. We all can connect with Zach at that level. Besides the ink addition and the broken heart, I also connected with Zach on the intensity level. I thought he was pretty intense for a dude that was trying to hide the fact that he was in love with his best friend.
Let's talk for a minute about the external conflict in the story. Oh, wait. I can't. That'd be spoilerish. BTW, I hate Keelie. The Internal conflict, however, is out-of-this-world!!! Both Abigail and Zach have this tremendous internal struggle about their relationship. Friends-with-benefits was pretty much what was agreed upon...even though Zach totally was in the game to win her over. I loved the way that both were so insecure about themselves and their relationship with the other that they never thought themselves worthy of the other's love. I think that this happens much more in 'real' life than anyone cares to admit. We end up meeting and building our 'serious' relationships with people who aren't as good for us as others that don't fit neatly into the little boxes we've formed to compartmentalize our lives. I know that I ended up looking outside the box for my ultimate happiness. It's pretty cool to see these former child stars do the same.
I really, REALLY liked the fact that Ms. Walker didn't portray either of her main characters as one of the totally messed-up child stars that we hear about all the time. I'm exceptionally glad that Zach was nothing like Danny Bonaduce, for certain! No catch-phrases from their show were included; had I heard something to parallel, 'Whatchu talkin' 'bout, Willis?' I think I would have groaned. Loudly. These were simply grown-up, former child actors. No biggie.
The realization that one is truly and honestly in love is powerful. When Abby realized that Zach was 'it', I completely and utterly understood. I remember telling my husband something similar to Abby's thoughts... and I was completely terrified at the time. “She knew that this was the one person who understood her, knew all of her flaws, all of her foibles . . . and loved her anyway. That, in and of itself, was a wonder. But this just felt . . . more. It felt like . . . everything.”
The hot scenes were truly making love. They weren't sex for the sake of sex. There was an intimacy conveyed through each scene. Zach was reverent with regard to Abby's body and pleasure, forsaking his own at times. Tremendous respect for her. Abby worshipped Zach's body. Mostly, there was a connection between the two characters that made them more believable, and realistic for me. It's difficult to describe... it felt like watching the sun warm a granite boulder on the shores of Lake Michigan in the fall. The warmth radiates from the rock, and into the body of someone sitting on the rock. It felt like the lump in my chest that shifts to a warm radiance and expands to encompass two people. Yeah. Cheesy, right?
I simply loved and adored Wrecked. I'm not heading out to get a copy of Wreck this Journal anytime soon, but maybe someday... I can't wait for another title from Shiloh Walker. In the meantime, I think I'll work through her Grimm series!
VampBard’s Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Author Guest Post: Viola Ryan
Hello Readers! Today I bring you author Viola Ryan. A very good friend of Viola Ryan in high school said, “You don’t think outside the box. You blow the thing up.” Sometimes boxes need exploding. That’s why she’s here. She has a whole bag of C4 and isn’t afraid to use it. She’s blessed with people who treasure her eccentricities or at least put up with them.
Sometimes the box can be a cozy place. Without some sort of stability, her two daughters’ and her life would be unmanageable. That stability comes from her husband. He’s the rock holding her family together.
On the flip side, his career is anything but stable. He’s a Chief Marine Safety Technician in the US Coast Guard. They’ve lived from Kittery, Maine to Yorktown, Virginia. Fortunately, the moves have all been on the east coast. Then again, the Coast Guard tends to guard the coast.
Her oldest daughter was born on Cape Cod, not far from Plymouth. Massachusetts. Her youngest was born in Yorktown, Virginia, down the road from Williamsburg. Viola jokes they’re doing the colonial America tour.
Viola has brought Lucifer to the blog today. He is one of the main characters in her new book, The Mark of Abel (December 21, 2012, MuseItUp Publishing). Please help me welcome Viola and Lucifer to That’s What I’m Talking About.
Lucifer Talks Hell
Thank you, Jen, for having me. Not many people want to listen to the Prince of Darkness. They call me the Prince of Lies. What’s with all the princes? I am the Bearer of Light, Lucifer. Actually, I hate all the titles. Darkness? Nothing is darker than what lies in the human heart. Lies? I don’t lie. I don’t need to. That is just something HE wants you to believe so you won’t listen to me.
If only you would listen to me. Eve was unfairly kicked out of Eden, but if you would just behave, all of earth could be paradise again. It’s not that hard. My brother, Jesus, put it quite simply “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” One thing I love about humans is you aren’t dumb. You get that from your mother. Eve was a brilliant woman.
I tried to help. That’s why I created hell. You respond well to four things: 1) Pleasure, 2) Pain, 3) Promise of Pleasure and 4) Threat of Pain. What is hell if not the ultimate threat of pain? That’s how I designed it. I came up with the idea and let Lilith run with it. She oversees hell with the help of our twins, Dan and Dana.
Lilith will personally design your torment. You should see Lilith’s latest creation. The deceased is trapped in a video game. If they can solve it, they are freed. Small problem, they can’t solve it. Whenever they come close, the game ends, and they have to start all over again. It’s Tron meets Sisyphus. Lilith is truly brilliant when it comes to these things.
Thanks again, Jen. Believe or not, I like Eve’s children and I want them to succeed. I want earth to return to paradise. Eve never should have been kicked out. The Grigori never should have been able to convince Cain to murder Abel. All so they could drink his blood and become vampires. It is a true tragedy, one people of today can change.
The Mark of Abel
Book 1 of the Mark of Abel Series
December 21, 2012 - ebook
September 2013 - paperback
Lucifer is fed up with humanity. He created hell to deter evil, but man’s inhumanity is only escalating. He just wants to return home to heaven, but ever since that little problem in the Garden of Eden, the Pearly Gates remain firmly shut to him. It doesn’t help that he’s the first vampire, an abomination in God’s sight.
Fortunately, two thousand years ago Lucifer’s estranged brother, Jesus, gave him a prophecy. To fulfill it, all Lucifer has to do is find the right artist, study her artwork and the path back to heaven will be revealed. The artist even bears a symbol so he knows who she is. Too bad she is murdered every time he finds her.
Janie’s a frustrated artist and college art teacher who wants two things—a guy she can show her paintings to and a night without nightmares. Each nightmare plagues her until she paints it. She doesn’t realize these paintings are key to unlocking her destiny, one that could redeem the original fallen angel.
Thank you so much, Viola, for stopping by and sharing a little of your latest release with us today!
Find Viola online ...
Website: http://www.violaryan.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jeanie.ryan.9
pinterest: http://pinterest.com/violaryan/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/violaryan
Monday, March 25, 2013
Review: Deadly Sting by Jennifer Estep
Deadly Sting
Author: Jennifer Estep
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Publisher: Pocket Books
Elemental Assassin #8
ISBN: #978-1451688993
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (400 pgs), e-book, audio
Book Source: Edelweiss
About the book:
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Red is definitely my color. Good thing, because in my line of work, I end up wearing it a lot.
Most people shy away from blood, but for an assassin like me — Gin Blanco, aka the Spider — it’s just part of the job. Still, it would be nice to get a night off, especially when I’m attending the biggest gala event of the summer at Briartop, Ashland’s fanciest art museum. But it’s just not meant to be. For this exhibition of my late nemesis’ priceless possessions is not only the place to be seen, but the place to be robbed and taken hostage at gunpoint as well. No sooner did I get my champagne than a bunch of the unluckiest thieves ever burst into the museum and started looting the place.
Unlucky why? Because I brought along a couple of knives in addition to my killer dress. Add these to my Ice and Stone magic, and nothing makes me happier than showing the bad guys why red really is my color.
What I’m talking about:
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Note: this review contains spoilers from earlier books in the Elemental Assassin series.
It’s been one long month for Gin since she killed her lover Owen’s ex-fiancee at the conclusion of the last book, Widow’s Web. Giving Owen the space he requested, Gin puts on a good face and keeps her tough exterior, but inside she’s a wreck. Lucky for us, her brother Finn attempts to help lift Gin’s spirits by taking her shopping for some fancy digs to wear to an gala showcasing items from the late Mab Monroe’s estate. Of course, this is Ashland and we are talking about Gin Blanco, aka the Spider, so even a simple shopping trip has its hazards. And only Gin would get excited about the store being robbed while she’s in the dressing room! It’s a great opening sequence that sets the mood for the entire book.
The story moves forward to the opening gala where Gin reluctantly attends with Finn. As soon as Gin arrives, her magic alerts her to some bad vibes coming from the museum stones. Yet even after she witnesses some odd behavior from a few of the giants working there, Gin keeps quiet about her bad feelings. Then to top it all off, since this is an event for all the movers and shakers of Ashland, it’s no surprise to this reader when Owen shows up with a date... one that happens to be wearing the same dress as Gin! It is a classic moment!
Soon after everyone arrives, things go downhill and get real ugly. There is a massive heist underway and everyone is held captive. Once again, it’s up to Gin to save the day. It’s not an easy feat, and there are twists and complications every step of the way.
About three-quarters of the book occurs at the museum and only over the course of only a few hours. I felt that the single locale and short timeframe of the situation added an urgency and intensity to the story. It was hard for me to put the book down since there were no breaks in the action. Additionally, reading the events unfold through the POV of Gin kept me on my toes and continually guessing at what is going to come her way next.
Ms. Estep is an amazing storyteller. The carefully detailed descriptions--from food I want to devour to scenery I feel like I can step into--makes the story so enjoyable to read and easy to visualize. Ms. Estep knows how to reveal clues at the just the right time to keep me glued to the pages. And her characters pack an emotional intensity that doesn't drive me away or interfere with action.
As for that emotional intensity... let’s talk about Gin and Owen. I’ll admit, I wasn’t too torn up at the end of the last book when Owen said he needed some time. I get it - a lot had just happened. However, the opening of Deadly Sting paints a more detailed picture of Gin. Learning of Gin’s loneliness and heartbreak tore me up inside. The gala is the first time that Gin and Owen see one another in a month. The moment was funny because of the fact that his date was wearing the same dress as Gin, but my heart shattered, unlike at the end of the last book. Gin loves Owen, but pride and insecurity get in the way.
As the book progressed, the pair has opportunity to talk open and honestly. Generally, one of my pet-peeves in books occurs when characters engage in deep dialogue or sexually-driven thoughts when in the midst of intense and dangerous circumstances. That is why I loved the fact that Gin acknowledges that “right now” isn't an appropriate time for the pair to discuss their issues, but then goes on to note that they may die that night and she wants to get out all the things left unsaid for the past month. I genuinely delighted in the honest, raw intensity of Owen and Gin, and Ms. Estep's ability to convey the mixed-up and heart-wrenching emotions that go along with the pair. I also liked Owen’s own introspection on things that had happened because it gave me better insight to why he is acting the way he is. Since I don’t want to give any spoilers, I’m not going to say how things are left between the pair at the end of the book; however, once you read it, I’d love to chat!
After the heist is over, Gin is determined to find out who is ultimately behind the events that occurred at the museum. There is a great scene near the conclusion of the book that is very satisfactory, especially to long-time readers of the series. (no spoilers!). I was completely entertained with how Gin handles the situation.
Deadly Sting is another excellent piece of work from Ms. Estep. I enjoyed the fact that roughly seventy percent of the story takes place in the span of a few hours and in one location. Despite this, the story never went stagnant. The movement was constant - whether it was the action (which there is a lot of, many dead bad guys per usual) - or the constant thoughts running through Gin’s head. The continuing love story between Owen and Gin was emotionally powerful and rich. I adore Gin’s family and friends and how close sisters Bria and Gin have become. Gin may need to kill alone at times, but she embraces and relies on the fact that they are always there for her. All-in-all a great read.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Saturday Conversations 03/23/2013
Today we continue The Boss Read Along at our Saturday Conversation... this will be a reoccurring chat (see schedule below). I hope you enjoy this read along!
***NEWSFLASH***
In case you haven't heard... Due to popular demand, author Abigail Barnette is offering a new chapter of The Boss EVERY FRIDAY!! We will continue to have our discussion with Abigail (aka Jenny Trout) and Vampbard here every other week. Schedule is at the end of this post!
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The Boss is here! Twice per month, we will have author Abigail Barnette here on the blog to discuss the latest installment of her serial contemporary erotic romance, The Boss. Ms. Barnette is providing The Boss free to her readers, with new chapters WEEKLY. If you're new to our Read-Along, go to our first post HERE and see what all the fuss is about!
This week, we're sending you to read Chapter 7 HERE and Chapter 8 HERE, then come back to this post to discuss your thoughts on The Boss, and read what others have to say. No. Don't scroll to see what they're saying first. Cheater. Go. Read. It's only about 40 pages total! We’ve included a handy SCHEDULE below so you’ll be ready for the next installment discussion. Just bookmark Abigail’s site, and then you can devour the next chapter the moment it goes LIVE!
We're excited to have Abigail here, sharing her serial, The Boss, with us.
The Boss Read-Along
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This week Abigail asks about Chapter 7, "This chapter introduces Deja, a new character. Have you ever met someone you'd normally be threatened by, only to find that you really liked them? Do you have any predictions for Deja?"
And for Chapter 8 Abigail and Vampbard wonder, "Is it just us, or does sushi sound really good right now?"
And for Chapter 8 Abigail and Vampbard wonder, "Is it just us, or does sushi sound really good right now?"
Discuss amongst yourselves! Abigail and VampBard will be around to kick in their 2 cents until Tuesday!
About the Author
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The alter-ego of USA Today Bestselling Author Jenny Trout (Jennifer Armintrout), Abigail Barnette was born during a conversation with author Bronwyn Green, who encouraged Jenny to develop an elaborate fantasy persona-- complete with nom de plume-- under which to pen erotic romance. Abigail enjoys long naps in fairy-filled glades, running through corridors in tragically romantic haunted castles, and drinking goblet after goblet of spiced wine.
REVISED RELEASE SCHEDULE
Chapter #
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Release Date
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Read-Along Date
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01/15/13
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01/30/13
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02/15/13
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02/28/13
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03/08/13
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03/08/13
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03/15/13
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03/23/13
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03/22/13
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03/23/13
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Chapter 9
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03/29/13
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04/06/13
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Chapter 10
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04/05/13
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04/06/13
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Chapter 11
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04/12/13
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04/20/13
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Chapter 12
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04/19/13
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04/20/13
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Chapter 13
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04/26/13
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05/04/13
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Chapter 14
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05/03/13
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05/04/13
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Chapter 15
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05/10/13
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05/18/13
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Chapter 16
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05/17/13
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05/18/13
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Chapter 17
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05/24/13
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06/01/13
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Chapter 18
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05/31/13
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06/01/13
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Chapter 19
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06/07/13
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06/15/13
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Chapter 20
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06/14/13
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06/15/13
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Chapter 21
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06/21/13
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06/29/13
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Chapter 22
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06/28/13
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06/29/13
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Chapter 23
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07/05/13
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07/13/13
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