OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Author in the Spotlight

To visit Jeremy C. Shipp's Author in the Spotlight Page and website click on pics!
Due to our UK postal strikes (and the problems they are causing me!) I am keeping Jeremy's page on this sticky note for a little longer! A new author will also be added soon.

Guest bloggers, reviewers and columnists are welcome.

Contact: Sassy[dot]Brit@gmail[dot]com

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

REVIEW: Taking Karre, Divinity Warriors, Book 4 | Michelle M. Pillow | Ellora's Cave


Title: Taking Karre, Divinity Warriors, Book Four
Author: Michelle M. Pillow
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Fantasy
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419923456
Length: Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Ever had so many aliases that you don't know who you are ? In her bid to take out Divinity in payback for ruining her life, Karre became one of the best inter-dimensional thieves around. Then she gets caught, Divinity gets even and some huge warrior on an unknown dimension gets a free bride.

Ordered by his king to wed, Sir Vidar reluctantly goes to the Claiming and falls into lust with the alluring Lady Karre. Maybe being wed won't be such a bad thing after all and the sex is to die for. Then Karre is taken and Vidar almost loses what sanity he has in an effort to get her back. Now he has to figure out what these overwhelming emotions are.

The books get smoother as the series gets more developed, the characters more varied and the sex is still sweltering. With it being dimensional I'm waiting to see how many more unusual places and occupations Ms. Pillow can add to her already extensive repertoire. It was an overall lusty, fun read.

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REVIEW: The Noughties: A Decade That Changed the World...




The Noughties 2000-2009: A Decade That Changed the World


21st Century Decaditis

This book highlights the incredible ups and downs during the first decade of the 21st century, 2000-2009. From life changing technical innovations (Wiki, Twitter, iPod, YouTube and the less popular surveillance and CCTV explosion), to the horrors that shook the world - the War on Terror and 9/11. It's all explained here in a detailed and revealing account of our history and all the fiascoes within.

Author Tim Footman takes us through the rise of celebrity culture, online shopping and even the decline of America and the emergence of a new world order. To astounding events we rather wish had never happened, fears and conspiracy theories of the millennium wipe out and financial meltdown, 9/11 and (dare I add) people many love to hate such as President Bush, Simon Cowell and Paris Hilton.

All in all, I found this an enjoyable and quite eye-opening reminder of what we've been through over this decade. At the back of the book there is a section called "New Beginnings" which is an interesting selective list of novel words and phrases that became prominent during the period of the Noughties, and the years in which they pertain to. Great examples include, Bling, Zombie Bank and Googleganger. Following this is a "Selective list of people, concepts and cultural landmarks that we lost in the Noughties," which I really liked. Remembering people like musician Kirsty MacColl (2000), author Douglas Adams (2001), comedian Spike Milligan (2002) and more recently, author JG Ballard, and actor David Carradine (2009) is a nice touch. Finally, a Bibliography and further reading section, and 115 End Notes, completes this well thought out look at our fast moving, ever changing world, which raises points to ponder about what our future holds. What is interesting is this is a reference/history book of a time we lived through ourselves and that makes it intriguing to me. Possibly a good choice for a Christmas gift, or to bury in a time capsule for future generations.

This is an Amazon Vine Review

Publisher: Crimson Publishing
Publication Date: September 2009
Length: 224 Pages
ISBN-13: 978-1854585356
Format: Paperback
Review by Sassy Brit
Alternative-Read.com

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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

REVIEW: Questing by Barbara Huffert | Bk1 | Ellora's Cave


Title: Questing, Cosmic Connection, Book One
Author: Barbara Huffert
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Romantic Suspense
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419921926
Length: Super Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

What's a girl to do when a man's voice renders her mute and inept? For Kiley Fisher it's avoidance at all costs, until a man with nasty intentions plans to use her for nefarious purposes. Dealing with the sexual frustration of wanting a man who turns you into a moist puddle of wantonness doesn't help an already precarious situation.

From the first moment he sets eyes on Kiley, Jordan McKade knows he's met his future. All he has to do now is figure out how to get the woman of his dreams to even speak to him. Promising himself to take it slow and easy works until a crook makes use of Kiley to make himself "disappear". Then all bets are off and the only thing to do is go for it and keep her safe at the same time.

I found this an amusing (not in a bad way) look at the possibility of love/lust turning a normally capable female into a mass of palpitating nerves incapable of coherency when faced with the object of her desires. It has all the makings of a good read with the insecurities, good sense, chivalry and "normalcy" of it's characters creating vivid pictures of important scenes. There are a few twists to keep it interesting.

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REVIEW: Supper for a Song |Tamasin Day-Lewis



 Supper for a Song


Pass me the Peche de Vigne, darling!

Author Tamasin Day-Lewis, UK celebrity chef and food writer for the Daily Telegraph, Vanity Fair, Vogue and Food Illustrated, has put together a nice looking and detailed book from which the back of the book blurb quotes "To feed a family for a song and still encompass all that is great is down to Tamasin's amazing passion, with an eye to the purse strings." This lead me to believe it would be a more simple "how to spread your meals further and save money" type of book.

In some ways it is just that, but not in the true sense since many of the ingredients are not what the average household would have in their pantry. She does encourage the reader to be creative, but most resourceful cooks when being prudent in the kitchen will not forage in the fridge, field and larder in search of things like Monkfish, Wild Salmon, Squid, expensive cheeses, vanilla pods, peche de vigne, and a variety of Port or wine, as suggested. Well, not in my house anyway!

The book also claims to have advice on things like keeping the store cupboard well stocked, and how to make the most of seasonal gluts, but for a cookbook missing a contents page this was not easily found. For these reasons I'm giving this book three stars. As a general cookbook it works. It is creative and I do like her suggestion for roast chicken with sausage, sage and prune stuffing, and what to do with the carcass. I have even tried a few of the recipes in the Happy Food and The Saturday Bake sections, with some success! However, for a book that at first appears to be written for those on a budget it's not quite as satisfying as her delectable (expensive) puddings and lays heavy on me.

This is an Amazon Vine Review

Publisher: Quadrille Publishing Ltd
Length: 192 Pages
Publish Date: 2nd October 2009
Format: Hardcover
ISBN-13: 978-1844007431
Review by Sassy Brit
Alternative-Read.com

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Monday, November 23, 2009

REVIEW: Maxwell's Fall by Tielle St. Clare from Ellora's Cave


Title: Maxwell's Fall
Author: Tielle St. Clare
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Menage or More/ M/M/Shapeshifter
Publication Date: August 2009
ISBN: 9781419922596
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Concocting a devious plan to prove her father's innocence, Mandy is relying on her good friend Jackson to help her put it into motion. It seems as if he's turned into another person entirely, becoming brash and bold instead of quiet and cautious. At least he's still willing to help with her plan, but it's hard to ignore the new Jackson who makes her think of forbidden things.

Coming to Alaska to visit his twin, Max finds himself in the odd position of being drawn not only to the opposite type of woman he normally dates, but his brother's very handsome,discerning male friend. Now if he can find his missing brother, keep Mandy out of harm's way and settle the odd ache in his chest in regards to her and Gideon, things might work out okay.

Never has a case of mistaken identity proved to be as entertaining (serious issues aside) as this one was. While shifters are fairly common in books these days, it's nice to find one with a few twists to keep me engaged. The characters are interesting, the situation dramatic and there's action to make it well rounded. I'm waiting to see where this goes as it seems prime for series.

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Sunday, November 22, 2009

BOOK BLOGGER HOLIDAY SWAP: I'm a secret santa - I love it!


HO! HO! HO!

I've signed up for this and just got the name of the totally random person I'm getting a Christmas pressie for, and without giving anything away, because it wouldn't be secret, I'm going to tell you one thing...

Shush! And come closer...

*Looks around to see if anyone is listening in*

When the name popped up I thought...

OH MY GOD, I KNOW HER!

That should keep a few of you guessing.

Oh, I am SO excited!

SECRET SANTA SASSY
:)

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REVIEW: Dimensions by Patricia Otto from Cerridwen Press


Title: Dimensions
Author: Patricia Otto
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal/ Romance
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419921438
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

To awaken in a place where time and date are the only recognizable things is not only confusing, but a bit horrifying to Gwyneth McGowan. When a man in a uniform calls her by name, she thinks it's a stroke of good fortune, until she realizes that apparently the world she now resides in is a cross between America in her colonial days and Merry Old England in the time Knights were predominant. All Gwen wants is to go home, wherever that might be now.

When Captain Thane Garren goes to accomplish the mission assigned by his king, all he wants in return is the reward of going home as promised. The feisty female he mistakenly gets instead of the childhood friend he's supposed to is fast becoming an obsession instead of a mission. The last thing he needs is to fall for the woman who is soon to become his queen.

Is an alternate reality possible and would I want to go there? Probably, just to see if my life there is the same, better or worse than in this one. I liked the fact that this one was a mix of our history and therefore easily recognizable, but have to admit that it's the characters reactions that keep this one a fun read. Misconceptions, misdirection and lusty sex mingled with a good style and a touch of humor lend a hand in making this one work.

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Saturday, November 21, 2009

EXCERPT: Naughty Nanny Series....Stay by Reana Malori (IR Erotic) PG-13



Genre: IR Erotic

ISBN: 978-0-557-13112-9

Publisher: Shara Azod, LLC


Blurb:

Loving Rick Harper's children has been the only thing Cherie Gilbert has thought about for the past three years. Oh yeah, she thought about their sexy father as well. Will a misunderstanding - a misheard conversation - ruin their chance at love. Cherie's willing to walk away from the love of her life. Rick's job is to convince her to stay.


PG-13 Excerpt:

Rick never thought he would feel this way about a woman again. When Susan had died after giving birth to the twins, he wasn't sure he'd be able to recover. His heart had been broken into such tiny pieces that nothing could penetrate his defenses. Only the sweet faces of his two children pulled him from the abyss. His parents had told him that he would get better in time, that life would go on. He'd never believed them. Not until an angel had walked into his life and made him believe in love again.

Cherie loved his kids with everything she had. Her eyes were full of affection and pride each time they presented her with trinkets or artwork created at school. He'd always thought she would be around, that he had plenty of time to tell her how he felt. Sitting here on the bed, watching her try to hold back the tears caused by his casual remark she'd heard out of context, Rick knew he had to fix this situation and fast.

"Don't cry, Cherie. Please, you have to listen to me. We don't want you to leave. I know it's late, but if you let me explain, it'll make sense."

Looking into her eyes and drowning in the chocolate-brown color, he knew he was lost. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. Looking his fill, he thought nothing was more beautiful than the woman he loved sitting here with him tonight.

Making a split-second decision he hoped wouldn't come back to bite him in the ass, Rick knew he had to taste her. Releasing her hands and cradling her face, he pulled her close to him as he lowered his head. He vaguely noticed her eyes widen in what appeared to be shock; but when she realized what was about to happen, her body relaxed.

The first touch of his lips against her soft, lush mouth was like heaven. He tried not to press too hard or move too fast. This wasn't about conquering. This was about acceptance and convincing. Convincing Cherie how he felt about her. Opening his lips slightly, his tongue traced the contours of Cherie's mouth; and when she moaned deep in her throat, he knew he'd struck gold.

Coaxing Cherie to open her mouth, he brushed his tongue against hers. Using some slight suction, he pulled her tongue into his mouth as he continued to pour all the love he had for her into this one kiss.

Moving one hand away from her face, he traced the shape of her back and pulled her body closer to him. Her nipples hardened against his chest, and Rick knew he needed more. The time had come for them to be together and he prayed Cherie wouldn't back away from him. He'd waited so long to hold her in his arms like this. He didn't think he could ever let her go.

Reluctantly pulling away from her mouth, Rick's breath was ragged and his voice was husky with his pent-up need, "Cherie, please, I need this night with you. You must know how much I want you. How much I need you. Don't leave me. Don't push me away." At the sultry look in her eyes, Rick saw there was no turning back. He knew he couldn't let her go. He simply wasn't willing to do it, no matter what.










--
http://classynsassypromotions.blogspot.com/


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REVIEW: Red Heat by Lynne Connolly from Ellora's Cave


Title: Red Heat
Author: Lynne Connolly
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Paranormal
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419922435
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

On a secret mission for the IRDC, Jillian has no idea what to expect when she comes into contact with Chase. Believing she is "trained" to behave like his beloved lost in a wreck, she is astounded when he simply feels "right". Now he's telling her she has it wrong about Talents, but she doesn't know what to believe any more. On the one hand she can't possibly love a man who's evil, but why would the IRDC
lie about what Talents are out to do?

When his beloved Jillian makes a stunning return to life, Chase knows he has limited time to make her realize who and what she is. When he begins to unravel the happenings since her "death", he finds that time might be running out for her and he's not going to let her face her future alone. Setting a trap for the people who have done unbelievable things in the name of science requires Storm at it's best, but mostly the trust of a woman who holds his heart in her hands.

This one has it all: plenty of action, deception at it's finest, secrets of the worst kind and a touch of horror at it's core. The premise in this might not be the most original, but the creative flow along with characters you come to know and sympathize with puts this tale by Ms. Connolly into one to be kept and re-read. Plus this has some truly hot sex that makes you wish for some ice water, a fan and an encore of seconds. I truly hope this will become a series as it holds good possibilities.

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Friday, November 20, 2009

PRODUCT REVIEW: Willy or Won't He Love It? Willy Care Kit


The Gentleman's Willy Care Kit

Oh he will! Now, this has been around for a while, but until recently I never had anyone to buy one for, which I needed as I don't personally have a willy of my own. Well, not one that is attached to me.

This is exactly what to get a man who has everything. With this you can fluff (brush), style (shears), spruce (silverware mirror), dress up (chunky metal bracelet with mini medallion) and it all comes in a smart leatherette case.

Admittedly, I thought this was more of a joke present, but I've been told it's very useful and although that was a bit of shock to me, I was secretly pleased this had more value than just entertainment.

Another thing is that the styling "shears" as they are called, are not so frightening as they sound - they're really only small scissors...but shears sounds rather dangerous.

Finally, the Gentleman's Willy Care Kit will have your willy, or your man's, in good shape and groomed to perfection in no time at all, and we all know you can't keep down a well looked after willy. Now, that's got to be worth the money!

--
Angelika Devlyn
http://angelikadevlyn.wordpress.com/
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PRODUCT REVIEW: Orgasmic Head Massager!


The Genie Head Massager

I thought this sounded a little naff at first, to be honest. Who wants to stick this in their hair and get it all tangled when a finger will do? Curious, I bought one anyway...

Oh, how drastically wrong I was. How ashamed I am to think what I've been missing out on all this time!

Now, I wouldn't say this was a particularly brilliant product as a "firm" massager, it's a little on the feeble side for that and it doesn't vibrate (boo hoo!), but it certainly does the trick when it comes to the all over spine-tingling effect it had on me. Which, incidentally, is exactly what is supposed to happen since it's the tingling sensation that relaxes and re-energises as it improves circulation and lymphatic drainage in a natural and holistic way. Ideal for when you have a headache, but lovely all over -- especially the neck! I have to say that I also would love to find out what the vibrating head massagers are like now.

"Don't scratch your head, you'll get splinters" -- well not anymore I won't! In fact, I'll never look at another head massager in quite the same way again. If anything, it's a great stress reliever.

--
Angelika Devlyn
http://angelikadevlyn.wordpress.com/
http://myspace.com/angelika_devlyn


REVIEW: Susie's Choice by Barbara Elsborg from Ellora's Cave


Title: Susie's Choice
Author: Barbara Elsborg
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Romantica/Erotica/Menage or More/ M/M
Publication Date: July 2009
ISBN: 9781419920844
Length: Plus Novel
Format: eBook
Reviewer: WitchGiggles
Alternative-Read.com

Repressed by the men of her family, Susie's decision to answer the ad was to gain a bit of independence.The last thing she expected was to find out there were two males who would keep her desire in hyper-drive. But sweet Susie is carrying secrets and she's afraid that if they come to light, it will destroy any chance at happiness with these fine fellows. Does she dare to trust them with the truth or flee and leave her heart behind?

Opening the front door to the last applicant, it's instantaneous love the fragile waif with the skinned knees engenders in Christian's heart. Yet in his timidity it's possible that she can get away without knowing how he feels. Whenever Susie is near he can't seem to get the courage to tell her exactly how he feels or that the deal includes the sometimes acerbic Joel. How can he take the chance on seeing things he'd rather not on her delicate face?

With secrets of his own weighing upon his soul, Joel has no intention of this frolic becoming permanent, but you know what they say about the best laid plans. Fighting not only himself, but Susie's family for the right to choose, he finds things getting more complicated by the minute. How can he leave not just one love, but two behind when he returns home?

What started out as a light-hearted romp soon turned into a more complicated tale with very realistic characters, exploring the ways in which three people learn to share the most important part of themselves - their hearts. Although in a few places it came across a bit too frolicsome, that never took away from the depth of emotion, level of uncertainty or essence of the story. This is a well written tale of what it takes to make three into a family of one.

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