Interview with Kelly Gay

Today we have with us Urban Fantasy author Kelly Gay. Kelly has one book out already titled The Better Part of Darkness, and the second book in the series called The Darkest Edge of Dawn will be released today. Kelly, thanks so much for taking time out of your hectic schedule to talk to us. Can you tell us a little bit about your Charlie Madigan series?

Charlie lives in a world where the existence of mythological beings (many of whom inspired our myths of angels and demons, gods and monsters) was proven true over a decade earlier, and since that time, these beings, or off-worlders as they’re called, have integrated into our society. Charlie is a single mom and a law enforcement officer who polices the off-world population in and around Underground Atlanta with her partner, a male siren named Hank. She has a full life – a pre-teen daughter wanting independence, an ex-husband who wants to reconcile, and a job that pushes her to her limits.

What made you decide to write urban fantasy?

I love all things fantasy, but I’m drawn most to the combination of fantasy mingled with modern life. This, to me, is the best of both worlds and urban fantasy really encompasses that aspect. My other writing love is developing new worlds, beings, and traits, and writing about strong women. Urban fantasy is a natural fit for me. Well, anything paranormal is a natural fit.

You probably get this question a lot, but I always enjoy hearing what different authors have to say. What do you think is your favorite part about writing? Your least favorite?

I love creating things no one has before. Taking old myths and turning them into something new. Putting my spin on things and giving life to new beings, new powers, new rules, new worlds… I really feel like an artist during those times when I mold, shape, and create something from a blank canvas. Love it. My least favorite thing is the immobility, sitting for long periods, and having to be self disciplined. I’m my own boss (which is awesome), but some days it’s hard to fight outside distractions. My least favorite thing in the actual writing process is probably the rough draft. I’m so impatient. I just want to get it out of the way so I can go back and start playing with the story and digging deeper into things.

I've heard it takes an average of five years to go from starting to write to getting published. How long did it take you?

If you count from the time I started writing with career intentions, it’d be about fifteen years. I spent ten years writing screenplays, plays, and a ton of unfinished novels. But in 2003, I decided to switch gears from screenwriting, actually finish a book for once, and put all my focus on the fiction world. So five years after this decision, and six manuscripts later, I finally sold.

If we were to take a peek at your bookshelves, who would we find?

*glancing to my left* Let’s see. THE MONSTRUMOLOGUST by Rick Yancey, BENEATH THE SKIN by Adrian Phoenix, BETRAYALS by Lili St. Crow, THE DEAD-TOSSED WAVES by Carrie Ryan, the entire Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews, every Kresley Cole, Karen Marie Moning, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Vicki Pettersson book ever published, and so many more … There are about 200 books on this case next to me, and I have several bookcases around the house, and boxes full of books in the attic. One of these days, I’ll get that dream house with the library, LOL.

In your spare time (if you're lucky enough to have any), what would we catch you doing?

Reading. Unfortunately, I don’t get in as much reading time as I did before I sold. I spend so much time (daily), reading, revising, looking at galleys, copy edits, writing posts, etc., that when I do have free time and want to read, I don’t because my eyes hurt and I need a break. But I like to regenerate by hanging out with my family, and being outside. I love to go to the park, sit by the water, or play in the dirt and grow things, and watch my kids splash around in the kiddie pool. Then, I’m usually good to go for some reading later on in the evening.

Do you have any plans to write more in the series?

 I have two more Charlie books planned. I’m in the process right now of writing the third one. I’ve really fallen in love with some of the secondary characters, and would love to write a few books featuring them as well. Particularly, Carreg, the Charbydon noble, and the Druid King, who you’ll meet in Darkest Edge – I see a very intense time ahead for him...

Again, I'd like to thank you for spending some time with us and answering our questions. Annette and I both wish you the best of luck with your books.

Thank you so much! It’s a pleasure to be here, and congrats on creating such a wonderful site!

And now for the announcement!  (drumroll, please)  Kelly will be giving away an autographed copy of Darkest Edge of Dawn, along with some swag (bookmarks, cover flat, postcard) for one lucky person who comments on this interview.  Contest winner will be drawn on Sunday, September 5th and we'll post the winner right here on the site.

You can visit Kelly at her website:  http://www.kellygay.net/

Lynsay Sands Contest Winner

We have randomly selected the winner from our Lynsay Sand's interview and the winner is.......

vinyldisco

Congrats!!!!  Enjoy your books.


~Annette~

Review: Daryk Hunter by Denise A. Agnew

Daryk Hunter
Daryk World #1

by: Denise A. Agnew

ISBN#9781419927829

$6.99 ebook
Ellora's Cave
Fantasy Erotica
Released: July 2010




On her way to save her father, Ketera's ship crashes. She awakens on a beach, in the arms of a handsome stranger. Her gratitude soon turns to horror when she realizes he's a Dragonian, a mortal enemy to her people. Although he's not to be trusted, he makes her feel things she knows she shouldn't. In her culture, pleasure is a sin, so she tries to deny the rising attraction for Dane, and fails. In his arms, she finds ecstasy she never knew was possible.

Although her body responds to his erotic caresses, she must guard her heart, for falling in love with the enemy is impossible. She must go back to Magonia and rescue her father from jail before he's executed. To do that, she must rely on Dane's help if she hopes to make it back in time.

Dangerous perils await, as a religious group tries to start a civil war, and she and Dane are caught in the middle. For the leader of the rebellion is Dane's half brother, and he's not above using a Mongonian as bait to lure his brother into a trap...



Even though Daryk Hunter is part of the Ellora's Cave Aeon line, I would say this is more fantasy than science fiction. It has the feel of a far off world of long ago, where wars were fought with sword and shield, not guns and bombs. The story gives you a good solid feel for the history and animosity of the two cultures sharing the world. With the differences between the two, you can understand why a war is brewing, and why the two are going to erupt soon.  The Magonians are a society that teaches its citizens to repress all emotions, especially lust. The Dragonians embrace their emotions, and are viewed as barbaric because of it. Ketera is the epitome of innocence when she first meets Dane, but we begin to see glimpses of the strong woman buried under all the lies her society has heaped on her. Denise Agnew's humanization of not only Ketera, but Dane as well, really helps to suck you into the story, letting you feel the emotions as you follow them on their adventures.  I enjoyed reading this book, and anyone who likes love stories in the age of dragons and swords will enjoy this book as well.

Carla gives this book a

Review: Smoke by Mara Ismine

Smoke
part of the Dark Masters series

by: Mara Ismine

ISBN#9781610400367

$6.99 e-book
Torquere Press
Sci-Fi Erotica / GLBT
Released: August 2010




Sitting at a bar one night, Smoke sees a pair of emerald eyes attached to a body that won't quit, and he's instantly captivated. Following the man seems like a good idea at the time, but little does he know he's about to be in over his head. A casual fling turns into something deeper, but then came that fateful day...

Smoke thought he'd found the one person he could spend his life with, but a horrible betrayal by his lover Ty crushed those dreams to dust. Determined to put his feelings for treacherous but attractive ex behind him, he resumes work running his intergalactic courier business. Fate, though, has other ideas...

Forced back into each other's lives by chance, can these two men put the past to rest, or will it consume them and their fragile relationship?



This was a very nice male/male love story between Ty and Smoke. Both men have demons in their past, and must figure out how to overcome those demons if they want to stay together. The concepts on space travel were intriguing, and I found myself spending a lot of time thinking about this story in one form or another. There were times I wanted to smack the characters for being so stubborn and bullheaded, but that is what makes a story good.  A few of the scenes could have been taken out to help streamline the story, but other than that, it was an enjoyable book.

Carla gives this book a

Review: Stronger than Sin by Caridad Piñeiro

Stronger than Sin
Sin Hunters #2
by: Caridad Piñeiro

ISBN#9780446543842
$7.99 mass market paperback
Grand Central Publishing
Paranormal Romance
Released: October 2010




Jesse used to play in the NFL, until an injury forced him out of the game. After turning to experimental gene therapy, his body is altered, and he ends up a prisoner to a mad scientist. He's allowed out, but only so a prominent doctor with the necessary experience can try and fix the gene-altered damage to his body before it's too late...

Liliana is familiar with the Wardwell scientists' ideas of gene mutations, and has spent time trying to find cures for those whose bodies have been altered. When she's given Jesse as a patient, she's instantly drawn to him. Although her brain tells her to keep her distance from the sexy ex-football player, she can't seem to keep her hands off his sculpted form.

As her feelings for Jesse deepen, she must race against time to find a cure for him. There are hidden players in the game, ones who hope she will fail to cure Jesse, and are waiting in the shadows to pounce as soon as she makes a mistake...



I started off with Stronger than Sin, the second book in the series. I didn't have many problems jumping into book two, but I would recommend you read the book one, Sins of the Flesh, first. They make references to the first book that aren't important to the main plot, but would help to fill in a few gaps.  That being said, I enjoyed this book more than I expected to, which is always a wonderful surprise. The character interaction would have been enough to propel the story forward, but the author added suspense, intrigue, and conspiracy to the mix and the finished product was a book I was unable to put down until I finished it.  Anyone who enjoys a medical mystery or contemporary suspense will enjoy this book.

Carla gives this book a

Review: Second Night by Caroline Aubrey

Second Night: More Fairytales Retold

by: Caroline Aubrey

ISBN#9781603138727

$6.49 e-book
Whiskey Creek Press
Romantic Fantasy
Released: August 2010





This book contains four short stories, and all revolve around fairy tale concepts.

In A Fox's Tale, when a handsome man swoops in on an unsuspecting trio of sisters, they're instantly captivated by his charms and attractiveness. His marriage to their eldest sister is beneficial to the family, since he has wealth enough for them to live comfortably for the rest of their lives. But soon enough, things begin to go wrong at an alarming pace, and the youngest sister is faced with a horrible decision, one that will change her life forever...

In The Blood of the Queen, the eldest princess has been promised to a king of a faraway land, and she takes her mother's magical protection on the long trek to her new home. But the princess soon learns what happens when she lets down her guard and misplaces her trust in those close to her...

In Mia of the Redwood Lake and Green Unfurled Fern, a young man recovering from a tragic loss takes a job doing research in California, and finds more than he bargained for in the form of a beautiful woman. But is she a woman, or something else, something straight out of mythology...

In West of the Moon, a modern day retelling of Beauty and the Beast, a professor of mythology discovers not only are the creatures in the stories real, but they live among us. A horrible accident brings the professor into the realm of the supernatural, where things aren't as they appear, and monsters lurk among us. But the power of love is a powerful and amazing thing, and we see proof of that as the story unfolds. But can true love conquer all?



I usually don't read short stories, but I read these because I find fairy tales a change of pace, and Caroline Aubrey's retellings are a breath of fresh air. Even though the stories are short, the characters are written well enough to jump off the page at you, sweeping you up in a maelstrom of emotions that leave you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens to them. West of the Moon was the longest story in the book, which really allowed for the characters to develop and emotions to be described.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading these stories, and I recommend them to anyone who enjoys fairy tales, or something with a bit of magic and myth to it.

Carla gives this book a

Review: Gambit by Kim Knox

Gambit

by: Kim Knox

ISBN#9781426890598

$4.99 ebook

Carina Press
Sci-Fi Romance

Released: September 2010

Chae is a mercenary, willing to take on risky jobs as long as the price is right. She prides herself on her lack of personal attachments. All that changes when she's offered a job with a huge payout. All she has to do is smuggle a Ladaian male onto a heavily guarded planet to prevent a civil war. Peace of cake, right?

 

One look at Daned is enough to ignite Chae and make her crave his touch. And what's better, he will pose as her sex slave in order to get him past the planet's security. What starts out as a ruse turns into something very real, and Chae must decide if she's willing to open up her heart and risk getting hurt.

 

With enemies closing in and wanting to see both of them dead, she must somehow find a way to keep them alive long enough to complete the mission. But life is never that easy, as she's about to discover...

 

This story was jam-packed with action, adventure, and steamy sex. The book flowed great, and I was sad when it ended. Daned and Chae had a great dynamic, bouncing off each other at times, but ultimately propping each other up and filling in the holes. They're stronger as a team, but they're both stubborn enough to not notice at first. The odds are quite often overwhelming, but they manage to struggle through no worse for the wear.  This is a great book for fans of romantic science fiction. It was easy to read and very enjoyable.

 

Carla gives this book a

Interview with Gail Carriger

Today we're pleased to welcome fantasy author Gail Carriger to our site. Gail is the author of the Parasol Protectorate  series, and book 3, Blameless, will be released on September 1st. Gail, would you start off by giving us a synopsis of the series?

The parasol protectorate books feature Alexia Tarabotti, soulless, autocratic Victorian harridan, and her increasingly eccentric group of friends. Alexia is prone to charging about London, then across England, and eventually through Europe on her quest to foil various evil plots. She is assisted, and sometimes hindered, in her endeavors by a band of scruffy werewolf soldiers, a cadre of gay vampires, a cross-dressing female inventor, and a very silly best friend with a predilection for atrocious hats.

I've heard the average time from beginning to write to getting published is around five years. How long did it take you?

That depends on whether we are taking about this specific series or my career in general. Soulless took me about eight months from idea to first publishing offer. But, before that, I'd been writing other books and struggling to get published for over ten years.

What inspired you to begin writing?

A healthy does of insanity mixed with a reckless disregard for my own survival topped with ingrained escapist tendencies.

What do you enjoy the most about writing? The least?

I love the daily freedom that a career as a writer affords me, but that's also a curse. I have to be pretty self disciplined and force myself not to play online or putter about in the kitchen making tea. As to the actual craft itself, I find it relatively easy to stay on target with two exceptions: the nookie and the humor. I've written humor before so I knew I could, but never for a full-length novel. It's true what they say; it is harder to make people laugh than cry. I've never written anything approaching a romance before so that was very challenging too. I kept embarrassing myself. On the flip side is the editing. I absolutely adore editing.

You also have a fourth book releasing in April 2011 called Heartless. Do you have any plans to continue the series after that?

There will definintely be one more book, Timeless. At that point I intend to leave Alexia behind as my main character. I wouldn't say no to continuing to dabble in this world, though. The Parasol Protectorate may rise again, just with different characters, in different times and places.

How much time do you spend doing research for each book?

As much as I love the Victorian era my areas of expertise tend to be limited to fashion, manners, food, and the antiquities market. I do a lot of research into the science and technology of the day as well vampire and werewolf lore. It's remarkable what obscure detail one suddenly needs to know as a writer. Most recently, I had to figure out what kind of small gun a gentleman might sport in 1841, and what the political climate was like in Italy in 1875. Even if it doesn't make it into the book, it will irritate me if unwritten background information is flawed. If you asked me to guess, I'd say about half my rough draft writing time is spent researching, so for every two hours I spend writing, another two is spent looking things up.

Gail, I'd like to thank you again for taking time out to talk to us today. We wish you the best of luck with your books.

You can visit Gail's website at http://www.gailcarriger.com/.

Parasol Protectorate series

Interview with Lynsay Sands

Welcome to RomFan Reviews Lynsay it is a great honor to have you with us today. I know that you are really busy right now so shall we jump right in and get started?

1. Lets start with a tuff one historical or paranormal which is easier to write and do you prefer one over the other?

Actually, I’m not sure I could pick one over the other. I love them both. Although, I think the paranormals are sometimes harder to write because they’re so interconnected. There are so many books now it becomes more and more difficult to keep all the details straight which can be a bit stressful.

2. Tell us a little about your new release in the Argeneau Series Born to Bite?

Born To Bite is Armand’s story. It resolves the matter of how his wives died, and also clears up the matter of Nicholas and what happened the night he was found with a dead mortal. Unfortunately, I couldn’t explain what happened at the end of Nicholas’s story, The Renegade Hunter, without giving away all of Armand’s story so had to leave his story just saying he was innocent. This will explain what happened that night.

I actually wrote and finished Armand’s story exactly a month after Nicholas’s and was hoping they would be published back to back like Vampires are Forever and Vampire, Interrupted were. However, it didn’t happen that way and they held the story a whole year! Sheesh, I really want to apologize to all my readers for that. Had I realized that would happen, I would have skipped those two stories or done them differently.

3. We know you have another one scheduled to be released in November Hungry for You can you give us a hint to what this book is about?

This is the story of the last Willan sister, Alex. Sam’s biggest wish finally comes true, her last sister is a lifemate to an immortal. The problem is, in the middle of trying to expand her business, and finding the endeavor riddled with problems and setbacks, the last thing Alex is interested in is meeting another one of those weird guys her sister keeps introducing her to. But when the chef at her original restaurant unexpectedly quits, leaving her in the lurch, and Sam says the latest guy she wants her to meet is a chef, he seems to be the answer to a prayer. At least he is when it comes to business. The problem is avoiding getting personally involved. The last thing she needs on top of all her other problems is a sexual harassment suit.

As for Cale, he’s been alive a long time with no sign of a lifemate until now. But getting Alex’s attention away from her business troubles seems to be next to impossible. When the troubles and setbacks turn deadly, things get even stickier. Now he not only needs to help keep her business afloat, but keep her alive as well while trying to gain her frazzled attention long enough for her to see that he’s more than just the answer to her business needs.

4. I am not sure about other readers but I can never get enough of the Argeneau Series can we expect to see more in the future?

Well I have a lot of ideas still for characters you’ve met and some you haven’t. So long as I have ideas, and so long as readers keep reading and my publisher continues to be willing to publish them than you’ll see more. Well, that and so long as I don’t drop dead or something, lol.

5. Your historical romance The Devil of the Highland Series has been a huge success is The Hellion and the Highlander the end of the series?

Originally, it was just going to be the three books. However, I’ve had so many requests for more stories in the series, I’ve decided to go back and read the three books and see if it sparks ideas for any of the other secondary characters. That will have to wait until I’m done the Regency series I’m working on right now, though.

6. Will we be seeing more from you in the historical genre soon?

The first two of the Regencies I just mentioned, The Countess and The Heiress, come out in January and February 2011, and I have contracts for two more.

7. I am sure with your schedule there is no such thing as free time but when you manage to squeeze some time for yourself in what are some things you enjoy doing?

Read, which probably doesn’t surprise anyone, lol. I also like playing video games (I maybe shouldn’t admit that.) And then we escape up to cottage country for sun and fun too. Unfortunately, you’re right, and I don’t have a lot of free time, so while there are a ton of things I’d love to try or do, I haven’t had the time yet. Hopefully, I can better arrange my schedule so that I can do some other stuff in the future.

8. If we were given a peek inside your personal library what authors might we find on your bookshelves?

Dean Koontz, J. F. Lewis, Terri Garey, Suzanne Enoch, Stephanie Laurens, Sandra Hill

9. How can readers contact you and learn more about your books?

My website, www.lynsaysands.net . Once there they can sign up for my mailing list if they want updates or a chance to win autographed books and, occasionally, some swag.

Thank you so much Lynsay for spending some time with us it was a pleasure having you here and we hope you come back again real soon hint, hint November might be nice lol…..

Thank you, Annette. It was a pleasure.

Now for one lucky person Lynsay has offered one of her older historical books and a copy of Born to Bite. Just leave a comment and we will randomly draw one name on release day August 31st.

Review: Badcock by Debra Glass

Badcock

by: Debra Glass
ISBN#9781419928598
$5.20 ebook
Ellora’s Cave
Historical Erotica
Released: July 2010





Sophia Astley is shocked when she is taken from her carriage by a highwayman while her fiancé just watches. She soon finds herself needing to feel Bad Jack’s touch.

Jack Badcock, Earl of Stafford follows exactly as the letters stated and now he has the woman he plans to give her every fantasy she ever wrote of. But, Jack is soon to discover that maybe the woman in his arms is not the experienced and bored woman he thought.

It soon becomes known to Jack and Sophia that there has been an error but it may be too late to correct it. With the possibility of her name in ruins and someone out to destroy they both can they come out of this together or will it tear them apart forever?


Every girl dreams of a dashing handsome man to steal her away and do all kinds of things to make her body sing Debra Glass has brought him to us in BADCOCK. Jack and Sophia definitely heat up the pages with their antics plus throw in some secrets, jealous lovers and you have a story worth reading.

Annette rates this book:

Review: Shifting Positions by Jennifer Dellerman

Shifting Positions

by: Jennifer Dellerman
ISBN#9781607773474
$6.99 ebook
Ravenous Romance
Paranormal Erotica
Released: July 2010





Tess Gentry has been gone from her home for ten years but now she has come back and needs to face facts she is the daughter of a shifter and there is nothing that will change that. But, when she comes to close to the sheriff her mating instincts kick into high gear and one thing Tess will not do is become some shifters mate no matter how much she may want him.

Caleb Bennett has known since the first time he spotted Tess that she was his mate now all he has to do is convince her of that fact and to get past her issues about shifters. It is in their nature why does she not see that there is no way for her to get out of this.



SHIFTING POSITIONS is hot, fun and full of excitement. Bring together two shifters and feel the heat and emotion. Tess and Caleb are a couple of wonderful characters that draw you completely into their story.

Annette rates this book:

Review: Desperate Hearts by Diane Story

Desperate Hearts

by: Diane Story
ISBN#9781603138871
$16.95 trade paperback
Whiskey Creek Press
Historical Romance
Released: September 2010





Chantel Aubuchon was going to do what ever it took to save her town from the mining company that was slowly killing the land. Even if it means holding up the coach with a load of gold from the man who owned the mines and taking what she feels rightly belongs to the people.

Harper Barnes finds himself at gun point by a set of eyes he is likely to never forget and when he discovers they belong to the town’s mayor. He has decided he doesn’t just want his gold back but he wants the feisty mayor along with it.

What neither of them realize is that there is someone out to take everything for himself the land, the gold and Chantel. Will Harper and Chantel be able to put their feud aside and find that there is more to their feelings for each before it is too late? As Harper soon discovers wherever Chantel goes trouble is sure to follow so it is up to him to keep her safe.



DESPERATE HEARTS is one of the true Western Historical Romances it has all you need a stubborn woman a handsome hero and its fair share of ups and downs. The characters seem to jump right out of the book at you and hold you trapped in their story. It has been a while since I have read a good western romance and I can honestly say this one was worth being the first in that long absence.

Annette rates this book:

Review: Taking Fury by India Masters

Taking Fury
by: India Masters

ISBN#9781419929120
$5.95 ebook

Ellora's Cave
Sci-Fi Erotica
Released: August 2010





In retrospect, Anari shouldn't have said no to that pirate. Maybe then she wouldn't have found herself on an auction block, about to be sold as a sex slave to the highest bidder. At least it couldn't get any worse.


When Duncan shows up to the auction house, he finds the fiery redhead he's come to buy holding her own against the men there, and he's impressed. After buying her, he reveals who he is, and vows to protect her.

What Anari doesn't realize is that in order to keep up the facade of master/slave, she must submit fully to him in every way, if they have any hope of escaping the planet intact. For Anari holds a secret, one devastating to the lives of millions of it falls into the wrong hands. Now the two must race against time and stay one step ahead of those that would kill her. They must also face the scariest battle of all...the battle of the heart.



This book was an amazing blend of action, sensuality, eroticism, and love. India Masters has done an excellent job weaving everything together into a believable story that drags you along with the characters.  Because Anari refused the pirate's advances, he stole her and her two sisters and turned them over to be sold as sex slaves. Duncan is a bounty hunter who is hired to rescue her and keep her safe until they can get her home. But right after Anari's rescued, she finds out her father's been kidnapped. Plans change, and Anari and Duncan find themselves traversing the universe trying to find her father before it's too late.
This book kept me up until the wee hours of the morning, because once I got started, I couldn't sleep until I found out what happened. I am eagerly looking forward to anything else India Masters decides to write.

Carla gives this book a

Review: Dark and Disorderly by Bernita Harris

Dark & Disorderly

by: Bernita Harris

ISBN#9781426890338

$5.99 ebook
Carina Press
Paranormal Romance
Released: June 2010





Lillie works for the county as a Talent, someone with the ability to lay spirits to rest. But not everyone is thrilled with her ability. There are two factions, and both hate her for her abilities. One group thinks she should leave the ghosts be, and the other side thinks she's an abomination because of her abilities.

When her husband is killed in a car accident, all signs point to Lillie as the suspect, since the two didn't get along. Once Lillie is nearly killed by her husband's zombie, she knows there's something else going on, so she turns to John, a psi-crime detective, for help. Problem is, he thinks she's guilty, too. But the two must reluctantly work together to solve the crime, so she can lay her husband's ghost to rest forever. Now if only her pesky feelings for John will quit getting in the way...



This world in this book reminded me of Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake series, in that the dead can be raised to life, and ghosts and zombies are known to everyone. The world building was incredible, and the descriptions painted a vivid picture in my mind of the scenes and the characters. The storyline kept me guessing till the end, and the characters had a very authentic feel to them; I could almost image them running around in our world.  The only thing I had a problem with was the overuse of big words. I like to consider myself pretty well read, but having to constantly stop reading to look up a word kept dragging me out of the story.  All in all, though, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dark and Disorderly, and I would gladly read any sequels Bernita Harris writes.

Carla gives this book a

Winner of the D.B. Reynolds Contest

We have a winner!!! 

Estella

You have won a book of your choice from D.B. Reynolds.  If you could please contact D.B. at dbreynoldswriter@aol.com  with your selection and your snail mail address she will send you an autographed copy.  Congratulations from us here at RomFan!!!


I would also like to thank my friend and fellow Club Heller D.B. for a wonderful interview and we will have to do this again soon you are awesome *hugs*


~Annette~

Review: Ten Things I Love About You by Julia Quinn

Ten Things I Love About You

by: Julia Quinn
ISBN#9780061491894
$7.99 mass market paperback
Avon Books
Historical Romance
Released: May 2010





Annabel Winslow has one goal in mind, to prevent her family from falling into complete poverty. So when she travels to London for the season to search for the most advantageous match she soon finds herself pursued by a much older Earl, but beggars can’t be choosers her family is depending on her. What she did not expect was the stranger who kissed her on the heath when she learns his name things could not get any worse.

Sebastian Grey is the heir to an Earldom one he does not really care if he inherits from his uncle or not since they seem to hate each other. He would much rather be writing his books his one pleasure he cannot share with anyone. When he finds himself kissing a beautiful woman on the heath he is intrigued but he is not looking for a relationship and as quick as she is there she is gone.

When Sebastian causes rumors to spread about Annabel he has to do the only thing that will fix it, he must court her, of course it is all an act he has no plans on marrying. Annabel enjoys her time spent with Sebastian he is handsome, smart and funny why could he not also be rich to save her family. As the days go by it has become a contest of wills between Sebastian and his uncle who will win Annabel in the end?



Annette Says:

Julia Quinn has created the story for all full of romance and humor. Sebastian is full of sarcasm and quips that make you chuckle and Annabel holds her own against him it is a true match except of course Sebastian is not rich. I found myself laughing through out the whole book and I always love a good romance.

I rate this book:

Carla says:

I rarely (okay, never, really) read historical romance, preferring to stick to the modern day paranormal, so I was a bit apprehensive when Annette picked this month's discussion book.  I was surprised how quickly the story sucked me in against my will.  The characters were written with enough wit and humor to make me want to finish the book.  And at two in the morning, finish it I did.  I was thrilled by how disgusting the earl was portrayed, and the banter between Sebastian and Annabel had me laughing out loud.  While I wouldn't have bought this book on my own, I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it, and can see why Julia Quinn is a New York Times bestselling author.

 

Carla gives this book a

Interview with D.B. Reynolds

Welcome to RomFan Reviews D.B. thank you so much for joining us today.

1. Who was the person in your life who inspired you to start writing?

There really wasn’t one person who did it. I had a couple of great teachers in high school who made me believe I could write, but when I finally took the big step, it was during summer break from college when I was working a job with nothing to do. I couldn’t read a book, because that would have been too obvious and I wanted to keep working (so to speak), so I decided to write one instead. After I graduated from college, there was a huge long gap in time before I had the hours free to really sit down and write again.

2. Tell us a little about your new release RAJMUND now available?

RAJMUND is the third Vampires in America book, but the first whose story doesn’t center on Raphael and Cyn. They’re in the story, and they will be the common thread linking all eight books, but the story is not about them this time. Rajmund is a powerful, younger vampire who rules all of Manhattan, New York for his Sire, the Vampire Lord Krystof. Rajmund is very different from Raphael. He’s powerful, charismatic and a natural born leader, like Raphael, but because he’s younger, his attitudes and way of doing things are very different. Rajmund gets called back to Buffalo, NY to handle a police matter for Krystof. Some human women have gone missing and the police think vampires are behind it. Rajmund has to figure out whether some rogue vampire is out there killing human women, or if there’s something even worse going on, something that threatens every vampire alive. During the investigation he runs into Sarah Stratton. Sarah is a college friend of Cyn’s and she has a secret that could help Rajmund save the missing women. But revealing her secret will also destroy the carefully constructed lie she’s been living for almost ten years.

3. Will we be seeing more Vampires in America in the near future?

I’m happy to say I just signed a contract with my publisher, ImaJinn Books, for an additional five Vampires in America books. I always saw this series as eight books, one for each of the North American territories, so I’m thrilled I’ll have the chance to finish it. I’m already writing Book 4, which is SOPHIA, and Book 5 will be DUNCAN, which is a popular choice!

Congratulations that is great news!!!!  I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

4. If Vampires was turned into a movie what actor/actress would you like to see play the characters from your books?

I don’t even think about that. First of all, having worked in the film industry for more than a decade, I know how little power writers have when it comes to casting even their own books! But secondly, I have a clear image in my head of my characters and it generally doesn’t relate to anyone real.

5. You decided to venture away from vampires with your book HEART OF THE WOLF which is about shifters, what made you decide to switch gears and try something new? And will we see more of your wolves?

It’s odd, but the trigger for my HEART OF THE WOLF e-novella was the cemetery scene at the very beginning. I saw that scene very clearly and wrote a story to match it. As for why shifters, I love pretty much anything paranormal, so shifters were a natural choice for me. I didn’t want to combine shifters and vampires in a single story, which meant no shifters in my Vampires in America books. So my werewolves got their very own story. As for whether there will be more … I’m pretty sure there will be. But the next story will be longer, so I can develop it more thoroughly.

6. When you take a break from writing what are some of the things you enjoy doing?

Mostly reading. I sometimes think I could just sit for days and read, if only someone would deliver food to me. Well, except for nature calls, of course. And I also love movies, especially action/adventure movies.

7. I know one author we can find on your book shelf is Adrian Phoenix but who else would we see?

I am a big fan of Adrian Phoenix’s books. I love Dante and Heather, and her new series beginning with Black Dust Mambo is terrific. I also love Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, C. J. Cherryh, Lynn Viehl, Kelley Armstrong … and also John Sandford, Annie Solomon, C. J. Box and Laura Griffin. These are just a few of the authors whose books I look forward to.

8. Any advice you would like to give to future authors trying to get their start?

My first advice would be to join a good writing group, one whose members offer honest critiques. Having your family and friends read your stuff is great, but they’re more concerned with making you feel good. Cheerleading is nice, but it’s not helpful. There are many of these groups on-line now. The one I can recommend from personal experience is Kelley Armstrong’s OWG, which is located in her discussion forums at kelleyarmstrong.com.

9. Where can readers find out more about your books and contact you?

At my blog, which is http://dbreynolds.wordpress.com

Thank you so much D.B. for taking time out of your busy schedule to be here with us today.

And now for one lucky person D.B. has offered an autograhed book of their choice.  All you have to do for a chance to win is add a comment to this post and on Wed. Aug. 18th we will randomly draw one person's name.

Vampires in America Series

Review: Rajmund by D.B. Reynolds

Rajmund

Vampires in America #3
by: D.B. Reynolds
ISBN#9781933417073
$16.00 trade paperback
ImaJinn Books
Urban Fantasy
Released: July 2010




Sarah Stratton is having the dreams again something that has not happened since she was a teen, a young woman is in trouble possibly even more than one but if she tells anyone they will learn her secret and who she really is. When she learns a vampire may be involved she decides to use her connections to try and track down the missing women and finds herself coming face to face to a vampire she only met once but was strongly attracted to.

Rajmund Gregor is called back to Buffalo by his Sire to get to the bottom of the police accusations that a vampire is involved in the disappearance of three women. Knowing that his Sire Krystof is losing control of his territory Rajmund has a secret motive for being there but first he must do as he is commanded and find out who is behind these disappearances. What he did not expect to find was that Sarah was involved and she was keeping things from him. He knew after their first encounter that she was his but he was not going to take the chance of losing her to his enemies so he must do everything he can to keep her at arms length.

When Sarah convinces Raj to include her in his search things become more complicated and when Sarah continues to keep her secrets and lies to Raj as well as accusing him of things he did not do the tension becomes unbearable for them both but yet they cannot seem to stay away from each other. But, Sarah decides to finish this on her own and puts her life in danger can Raj overcome his anger and hurt to save her and will they ever find the women in time? And what about Krystof and the ruling of the Northeast will Raj be able to win the battle or will he find his life forfeit just when he may have something to live for.



One word “Amazing” D.B. Reynolds has done it again. For those who have read books one and two do not be disappointed that Raphael and Cyn only have a guest appearance in this book because Rajmund and Sarah are their own stars. I could not put this down until I finished it from cover to cover. It will keep you second guessing yourself as to who is the kidnapper.  You will find yourself calling Raj all kinds of names just like Sarah does but you will also feel his pain from those words. If like me you will also sit there and yell at Sarah to just open up to him and tell him the truth. I am so glad to hear that there will be more to come in this series from this awesome author.

Annette gives this book a rating of:

Review: Sin Undone by Larissa Ione

Sin Undone 

Demonica #5
by: Larissa Ione
ISBN#9780446556811
$6.99 mass market paperback
Grand Central Publishing
Paranormal Romance
Released: August 2010




Sinead Donnelly is a master assassin a job she really does not want but she could not let her brother’s mate take on the role. She also happens to be the only female Seminus demon so she does what she must but refuses to let her emotions get involved. When her special talent goes awry and she creates a virus that affects werewolves and it begins to spread she finds herself looking to the people she does not want involved but she has no choice.

Conall Dearghul is a Dhampire part vampire and part werewolf. Regardless of his past encounter with Sin and his friendship with her brothers he has been ordered by the council to bring her in. He has a blood connection with Sin thanks to their one time together so it should be no problem catching her.

As Con soon discovers things are not going to go the way he had planned. Not only is the council demanding her head but her own assassins our out to take her role as master. The urge to be with Sin and her demon requirements for sex makes it difficult for him to just turn her in to be killed. So, he does what any full blooded male would do he gives Sin the sexual release she needs as well as tries to help Sin figure out a way to stop the virus from spreading and using her other talents try to cure those that they can. But, will it be in time and can he show her that she is worth saving or will he die in the process?



Annette says:

Larissa Ione as done it again SIN UNDONE is another great book in her Demonica Series to add to the collection. Witty, suspense and surprises all in one book who could ask for more the chemistry between Sin and Con is electric. I could not stop reading once I got started a true page turner just awesome!!!

 

Annette gives this book a rating of

Carla says:

I read this one as soon as it came out, and I loved it.  I've been a fan of Larissa Ione from her first book, and I can't wait for her new spin off series coming out soon. 

 

Carla gives this book a

Review: Black Ice by Angelika Devlyn

Black Ice

The Dark Kingdom Chronicles
by: Angelika Devlyn

ISBN#9780955451065

$9.52 ebook
Chimera Books Ltd.

Fantasy Erotica

Released: June 2010

Ronnie had no idea that the man in her dreams was real and that he was watching her. For years Ronnie has been trying to find answers to who she is and about her parents, she is soon to discover all her answers but will she be able to accept what she finds.

Prometheus is a Destaurian Guard was sent to watch over Ronnie from the day she was born now a woman he finds he cannot wait for her any longer. When Ronnie has an accident it is his perfect chance to take her and wipe her memories of her past. It is time for Ronnie to take her place as the host for Hope and to prevent Pandora from obtaining the magic box of Destiny.
Kidnapped and angry Ronnie fights Theo on everything he says and does even though the voice inside her head tells her trust him that this is her destiny. But, this cannot be real and the things that Theo demands her to do she could not possibly do. Now it is a question of who will win this battle or will they both lose?



BLACK ICE is the debut book of Angelika Devlyn and a story anyone who enjoys Greek mythology and very hot sex scenes will thoroughly enjoy. I did have some problems in the beginning trying to get into the story but I will admit I am not huge on mythology but I did enjoy the erotic tone of the book as well as the battle of wills between Theo who is used to his every command being obeyed and Ronnie who will fight him every step of the way. I would find myself getting mad at Theo right along with Ronnie at his coldness and sometimes even his treatment of her.

 

Annette rates this book