Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Winner - Casa Dracula Giveaway with Marta Acosta

Hello happy readers! 

Thank you once again for visiting and sharing your time with us Marta!  One lucky winner wins one book of their choice from the first 3 Casa Dracula books!

The Winner Is:
Elizabeth Kolodziej

Congratulations Elizabeth!  Please email me through my blogger profile with your book choice and mailing address so that Marta can get your copy out to you!

Happy Reading!

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Q and A With Marta Acosta - Book Giveaway Too!

Hello there Readers!  Marta Acosta, the author of the Casa Dracula series, and Nancy's Theory of Style, is visiting with us today.  Feel free to ask her a question in the comments, or simply leave her some fan love.  A lucky commenter will winner's choice in winning one of the first 3 books from the Casa Dracula series!  Be sure to check back on September 29, 2010 to see who the winner was!

Hi Marta!  It's always a pleasure to visit with you, thanks so much for joining us today for this Q and A. 

Thanks for having me here!  Darque Reviews is one of the first paranormal/urban fantasy review blogs I discovered, and it’s still required reading for me.

DR:  Saying goodbye to Milagro is tough for us fans who have really grown to love her.  I can only imagine how difficult it is for you.  What will you miss most about Milagro?

I’ll miss her optimism and happy-go-lucky nature.  She may grumble and snark, but she’s generally so cheerful no matter what she’s suffered.  I love that about her.  I’d want to hang out with her and hear her loony ideas.  I want to go hear a band with her and read the crazy horror stories she writes.  Many times when I was writing, I’d have to stop myself and think, “No, that’s how a normal person reacts.  How would Milagro react?”  She finds the good side of things.

DR:  You did an amazing job of answering questions and wrapping things up in Milagro's world.  How did you know it was time to end the Casa Dracula series? 

I wrote the first book, Happy Hour at Casa Dracula, as a stand-alone.   I never expected to write a series, or even to stay in the same genre.  When my editor asked for another, I thought, “How in the heck do I say anything else?”  These additional books have been both a challenge and a treat for me, because I was always discovering more that I wanted to say.  Milagro’s quasi-friend Thomas Cook tells her, “You’re a happy ending sort of girl,” so I wanted to give her a wildly happy ending for this part of her life.

I think the temptation of writers and publishers is to keep going forever with a series and to churn them out so fast that the books rapidly decline in quality.  I didn’t want to do that to Milagro.  I wanted her to go out at her strongest. 

However, if any publisher asked for a few books about Milagro’s adventures with her fabulous husband, I think I could manage that!  You know, a little like Nick and Nora of The Thin Man – parties, danger, clever banter, mayhem. 

DR:  With the Casa Dracula series coming to a close, we're all curious about your future plans.  Can you share what you're working on now, and/or what we might see in the upcoming year?

My next big project is working on my young adult gothic, The Shadow Girl of Birch Grove, with my editor at Tor Books.  This book will come out in 2012.

Next year, one of my stories will be published in The Mammoth Book of Scottish Romance.  I’ve never written romance before, so I hope readers like it.  I was researching romance websites to find out how graphic sex scenes were supposed to be!  I settled on “really sensual, but no clinical details.”

My other big project is a gritty, sordid adult gothic that takes place both in the present and in the 1850s.  I don’t want to give out any more yet, except to say that it’s a very dark tale and one I’ve been wanting to write for years.

DR:  One book that fans can expect to see in print is The Shadow Girl of Birch Grove.  What can you tell us about it?

Thanks for mentioning it!  I love this story of a foster girl who is accepted into the elite Birch Grove Academy for Girls.  Jane is quiet and watchful, but determined to make a better life for herself and she believes she can do that through excelling at school.  She works really hard to achieve a security that most kids take for granted.

Jane is finally able to escape her dangerous neighborhood and miserable foster home for a place that’s not only attractive, but safe.  Or so she thinks.  Even though Jane is stunned by being at a school which offers her so much academically as well as living quarters and spending money, she wonders why she’s been brought there.  She discovers that the headmistress has secrets – but so does Jane.

DR:  Just for fun...What one guilty pleasure do you wish you could give up?  Why?  (a T.V. show, a snack food, a drink, etc)

I have a love-hate-hate relationship with reality shows, like Project Runway, even though I know they’re heavily scripted and edited.  I’d love to turn them off and do something productive, like going through all my filing.  Also, can Michael Kors please wear something besides the same black jacket, black t-shirt and black pants? 

DR:  Is there anything else you'd like to share with us before you go?

Just that I hope that readers will pick up my Casa Dracula series and follow the adventures of smart, sexy, quirky Milagro.  These are romantic comedies, so while you won’t find a brooding alpha male who solves all the problems, you will find a lot of laughs, eccentric characters who will entertain you, and heroine who grows and matures, while still retaining her sense of fun.  The comment I get most from fans is “I want Milagro as my friend,” and I think new readers will feel the same way.

Where to find Marta:
Marta's website:  http://www.martaacosta.com/

Thanks so much for spending some time at Darque Reviews, and thank you to the readers for making Marta feel welcome!

Kimberly, thanks so much for having me here!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Review - Haunted Honeymoon by Marta Acosta

Casa Dracula, Book #4
ISBN# 978-1416598879
Release Date:  October 5, 2010

About the Book:
Will she get another chance with the vamp that got away?

As the only human to survive vampire infection, Milagro de Los Santos has become quite a celebrity among the blood-drinking elite. Too bad the perks of her condition—increased strength, super-fast healing—don’t pay her condo fees. There are other complications too. She feels guilty about her fling with decadent, enigmatic Vampire Council member Ian Ducharme, and she pines for her ex-fiancĂ©, Dr. Oswald Grant . . . the fabulous man whose kiss changed her life.

It’s when Milagro—upset by Ian’s attentions to his neighbor—travels to London and enjoys a sexy flirtation of her own, that the blood really hits the fan. Suddenly, those around her are dying gruesome deaths and Milagro’s being interrogated. Who would kill to set her up as a murder suspect?

All she wants to is turn back the clock and have another chance to make things right.  No sooner has she escaped to Oswald’s ranch than an accident obliterates her memory.   Will the murderer come after her, and will amnesia spark a romantic do-over with Oswald—or will Milagro make all the same mistakes before she ever gets to say “I do”?

My Thoughts:
Haunted Honeymoon is the fourth, and final, book in the Casa Dracula series.  I've loved the free spirited character of Milagro de Los Santos since meeting her in Casa Dracula, and it's her fierce will to experience life that has kept me captivated with every book since.  Ms. Acosta is a master storyteller who wraps this series up with an action packed journey to the very end.  Haunted Honeymoon is fast-paced, fun, and filled with the unexpected.  Fans won't want to miss a word of Milagro's ultimate escapade!

If you're new to the Casa Dracula series what are you waiting for?  Be sure to start at the beginning for maximum enjoyment. 

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Winners - Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole

Hi there happy readers! Here are the winners for the Demon from the Dark giveaway:

Congratulations to the winners, thanks so much for joining in! Please use the email address in my profile to send your mailing info.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Giveaway Reminder - Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole

Last chance to get your name in to win one of 5 copies of Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole!  Giveaway ends August 31, 2010 at 6am (EDT).  See the original post HERE for details!

Good luck, and Happy Reading!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Review - Tomb with a View by Casey Daniels - Starred Read

Tomb with a View
A Pepper Martin Mystery, Book #6
Casey Daniels
Berkley Prime Crime - Penguin Group USA
ISBN:# 9780425235515
Release Date: July 6, 2010

About the Book:
Cemeteries come alive for amateur sleuth/reluctant medium Pepper Martin.

Cleveland’s Garden View Cemetery is hosting a James A. Garfield commemoration. For tour guide and reluctant medium Pepper Martin this means that she’ll surely be hearing from the dead president himself. And when she’s assigned to help plan the event with know-it-all volunteer and Garfield fanatic Marjorie Klinker, she’ll wish Marjorie were dead...too bad someone beats Pepper to it.

My Thoughts:
Tomb with a View is the sixth release in the Pepper Martin Mysteries series, and quickly immerses readers into Pepper's latest adventure with one of Garden View Cemetery's permanent residents. Ms. Daniels has a smooth writing style that she skillfully uses to keep fans guessing throughout her stories. Tomb with a View is a mystery that involves the dead just as strongly as the living, and it's one of many intriguing elements that make reading the Pepper Martin Mysteries so wonderfully addictive. With twists, turns, and surprising revelations from history, this mystery is sure to keep readers fully engaged until the very end. I'd happily recommend any book from this series, and am eagerly awaiting Pepper's next ghostly adventure.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Funny or Die - Pizza Training with Sam Trammell

Had to share this funny video with Sam Trammell (Sam Merlotte on True Blood) that you can find on Funny or Die.  The video has nothing to do with were animals, vampires, or the paranormal, but if you like him as an actor this should make you smile.
*Slight adult language, not work safe.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Book Giveaway - 5 Copies - Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole

Here's a fabulous opportunity to get your hands on a copy of Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole! The wonderful Associate Marketing Manager handling Demon from the Dark, at Simon and Schuster, is sharing 5 copies for giveaway here at Darque Reviews.

All you have to do to be in the drawing is leave a comment on this post letting me know if you've read previous books in The Immortals After Dark series, or if this will be your first (answers have no impact on drawing), and become a follower of the blog (if you have a blog, and aren't already following). This is sponsored by the publisher and is only open to US residents. Giveaway ends August 31, 2010 at 6:00 AM (EDT) and winners will be posted later that day. Good luck, and Happy Reading!

Demon from the Dark
The Immortals After Dark
Kresley Cole
Pocket Books - Simon and Schuster
ISBN# 9781439123126
Release Date: August 24, 2010
Excerpt: Browse Inside

About the Book:
From New York Times bestselling author Kresley Cole comes this scorching tale of a demon outcast poisoned with vampire blood and the vulnerable young witch he vows to protect—even from himself.

A DANGEROUS DEMON SHE CAN'T RESIST . . .

Malkom Slaine: tormented by his sordid past and racked by vampiric hungers, he's pushed to the brink by the green-eyed beauty under his guard.

A MADDENING WITCH HE ACHES TO CLAIM . . .

Carrow Graie: hiding her own sorrows, she lives only for the next party or prank. Until she meets a tortured warrior worth saving.

TRAPPED TOGETHER IN A SAVAGE PRISON . . .

In order for Malkom and Carrow to survive, he must unleash both the demon and vampire inside him. When Malkom becomes the nightmare his own people feared, will he lose the woman he craves body and soul?

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Book Trailer - Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole


*Be sure to scroll down for more information on Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole!*

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Promo - Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole

Live Chat with Simon and Schuster:

On Mon, Aug 23rd at 4pm EST, the pics go live! Tune in to Kresley Cole’s live broadcast to see blackmail pics of your favorite authors (and to learn never before heard deets about the IAD series). If we can get to 300 RSVPs, she will post a scandalous author pic. For every 20 RSVPs after that, we’ll get a new author in a compromising situation. Up to 400, and she will dish on DREAMS OF A DARK WARRIOR (2/11). Have questions for her to answer? RSVP at Ustream (you can sign in with your FB account) and stay tuned. Sign up today!
http://www.ustream.tv/simonandschuster

Demon from the Dark
The Immortals After Dark
Kresley Cole
Pocket Books - Simon and Schuster
ISBN# 9781439123126
Release Date: August 24, 2010
Excerpt: Browse Inside

About the Book:
From New York Times bestselling author Kresley Cole comes this scorching tale of a demon outcast poisoned with vampire blood and the vulnerable young witch he vows to protect—even from himself.

A DANGEROUS DEMON SHE CAN'T RESIST . . .

Malkom Slaine: tormented by his sordid past and racked by vampiric hungers, he's pushed to the brink by the green-eyed beauty under his guard.

A MADDENING WITCH HE ACHES TO CLAIM . . .

Carrow Graie: hiding her own sorrows, she lives only for the next party or prank. Until she meets a tortured warrior worth saving.

TRAPPED TOGETHER IN A SAVAGE PRISON . . .

In order for Malkom and Carrow to survive, he must unleash both the demon and vampire inside him. When Malkom becomes the nightmare his own people feared, will he lose the woman he craves body and soul?

About the Author:
KRESLEY COLE is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the vastly popular Immortals After Dark paranormal series. Two IAD novels—A Hunger Like No Other and Kiss of a Demon King —won the RITA Award for Best Paranormal Romance, and Kiss of a Demon King topped the New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. Kresley Cole has also written five award-winning historical romances.

A master's grad in English and former competitive athlete, Kresley lives in Florida with her husband and far too many pets.

Visit her website at http://kresleycole.com/

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Promo - Trailers for Dust by Joan Frances Turner



Be sure to scroll down to learn more about Dust and Joan Frances Turner!

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Promo - Dust by Joan Frances Turner

Dust
Joan Frances Turner
Ace
ISBN# 978-0441019281
Release Date: September 7, 2010
Read an Excerpt: Here

About the Book:
What happens between death and life can change a girl. Jessie is a zombie. And this is her story...

Nine years ago, Jessie was in a car crash and died. After she was buried, she awoke and tore through the earth to arise, reborn, as a zombie. Now Jessie's part of a gang. They fight, hunt, and dance together as one-something humans can never understand. There are darkplaces humans have learned to avoid, lest they run into zombie gangs. But when a mysterious illness threatens the existence of both zombies and humans, Jessie must choose between looking away or staring down the madness-and hanging on to everything she now knows as life...

About the Author:
Joan Frances Turner was born in Rhode Island and grew up in the Calumet Region of northwest Indiana. Dust, her first novel, will be published by Ace Books on September 7, 2010. She is currently at work on a sequel, tentatively titled Frail.


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Previously Read - Book Giveaway?

Any interest in some of the book copies I've read?  More often than not they still look new when I'm done with them, maybe a slight crease in the spine at most.  I also have duplicates that have never been read.  I have 4 book cases overflowing with books, and it's past time to share the book love.  While there are some I won't part with, there are tons that I simply must. 

If I get at least 50 positive responses in the comments to this post in the upcoming week, I'll put up the first book.  Please feel free to spread the word!  (the sooner I see those responses, the sooner I can start sharing)

Jen D. - If you 'vote yes' and email me with your mailing address, my copy of Black Dust Mambo could be in your hands to read this weekend.  (one of your comments made me think of doing this, so the book love should start with you and a book that you're interested in!)  I'm hoping you'll enjoy it as much as I did.


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Black Dust Mambo by Adrian Phoenix

Black Dust Mambo
Kallie Rivière, Book 1
Adrian Phoenix
Pocket Books
ISBN# 978-1-4391-6787-8
Release Date: June 29, 2010
Excerpt: Browse Inside

About the Book:
FIRST IN A NEW SERIES!

"There will be times, girl, when all your magic ain't going to be enough, times when it will seem to dry up like mud under the noonday sun, or even make matters worse. . . ."

Kallie Rivière, a fiery Cajun hoodoo apprentice with a talent for trouble, finds herself smack-dab in the middle of one of those times her mentor warned her about when she visits New Orleans to attend the Hecatean Alliance's annual carnival: her hard-bodied conjurer hookup ends up dead in her blood-drenched bed. And he was killed by something that Kallie would never dream of touching—the darkest of dark juju, soul-eating juju—a black dust hex that may have been meant to kill her.

Now Kallie has to use every bit of hoodoo knowledge and bayou-bred mojo she possesses to clear her own name and find the killer—even as that dark sorcerer hunts Kallie and her friends. But Kallie's search for the truth soon leads her in a direction she never anticipated—back home to Bayou Cypres Noir, and to Gabrielle LaRue, Kallie's aunt, protector, and hoodoo mentor . . . who is looking more and more like she just might be the one who wants Kallie dead.

My Thoughts:
Black Dust Mambo is a fabulous start in the Kallie Rivière series about a young women with strong hoodoo talents and a penchant for trouble. One night spent between the sheets with a sexy conjurer unleashes murder and mystery for Kallie, and she finds it waiting around every turn. Ms. Phoenix does a lovely job of introducing readers to this new heroine and those she calls family and friends. Black Dust Mambo will hook you quickly, and it will reel you right in for a fast paced taste of temptation and deadly mystery. I'll be looking forward to the second book.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Review - Fatal Circle by Linda Robertson

Fatal Circle
Persephone Alcmedi, Book 3
Linda Robertson
Juno Books/Pocket Books
ISBN# 9781439156803
Release Date: June 29, 2010
Excerpt: Chapter One

About the Book:
Destiny sucks...

There was a time when Persephone Alcmedi thought her life was hard to manage, what with wondering how to make sure she took adequate care of both her grandmother and her foster daughter, Beverley, whether she'd end up in the unwanted position of high priestess of a coven, and whether her waerewolf lover, Johnny, would resist the groupies who hang around his band Lycanthropia. But that was before the fairies started demanding that Seph's frightening, unpredictable ally--the ancient vampire Menessos--be destroyed... or the world will suffer. Seph and Menessos are magically bonded, but that's a secret she dares not reveal to her fellow witches lest they be forced to reject her and forbid her use of magic. And, despite the strain this casts on her relationship with Johnny, as a showdown with the fairies nears, she and Menessos badly need the waerewolves as allies.

Life, death, and love are all on the line, but when destiny is calling, it doesn't help to turn away. With the individual threads of their fates twisted inextricably together, can Seph, Johnny, and Menessos keep the world safe from fairy vengeance?

My Thoughts:
Fatal Circle is the third book in the Persephone Alcmedi universe, and moves forward in solidifying the roles of the main characters. Ms. Robertson balances a delicious love triangle with all of the conflict and action that fans expect in this heroine's life. Fatal Circle is well written, fast moving, and fueled by a mix of romance and paranormal influence. A must read in the Persephone Alcmedi series!

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Monday, August 16, 2010

Promo - When Blood Calls by J K Beck

When Blood Calls
Shadow Keepers, Book 1
J K Beck
Bantam Books
ISBN# 978-0-440-24577-3
Release Date: August 31, 2010
Excerpt: Chapter One

About the Book:
Attorney Sara Constantine is thrilled with her promotion—until she finds out that she must now prosecute vampires and werewolves. The first defendant she’ll be trying to put away? Lucius Dragos, the sexy stranger with whom she recently shared an explosive night of ecstasy.

When Lucius kisses a beautiful woman sitting next to him at the bar, he’s hoping only to avoid the perceptive gaze of the man he’s planning to kill. But what starts as a simple kiss ignites into an all-consuming passion. Charged with murder, Luke knows that Sara is determined to see him locked away—unless he can convince her that he’s not a monster. And that might mean making the ultimate sacrifice.

About the Author:
J. K. Beck spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge her passion for writing. Now she uses her legal background as inspiration for her paranormal romantic suspense series the Shadow Keepers, set in and around a secret judicial system hidden within and mirroring our own. California-born, J. K. Beck lives and writes in Texas, where she hangs out with her husband and daughters and drinks far too much coffee.

J.K. Beck is the new pen name for bestselling author Julie Kenner.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Would YOUR Relationship outlast the Zombie Apocalypse?

*Be sure to scroll down and read the previous post to learn more about Jesse Petersen's upcoming release:  Married with Zombies!

The link to this fabulous quiz was sent to me by Orbit Books. Of course it totally made me smile, so get on over there and try it out!  While you're there, be sure to check out Jesse Petersen's site!


My relationship would outlast the zombie apocalypse!

Take the How Long Would Your Relationship Survive in the Zombie Apocalypse? Quiz at JessePetersen.net
Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Promo - Married with Zombies by Jesse Petersen

Married with Zombies
Jesse Petersen
Orbit Books
ISBN: 978-0316102865
Release Date: August 31, 2010
Excerpt: Read the First Chapter

About the Book:

Meet Sarah and David.

Once upon a time they met and fell in love. But now they’re on the verge of divorce and going to couples’ counseling. On a routine trip to their counselor, they notice a few odd things – the lack of cars on the highway, the missing security guard, and the fact that their counselor, Dr. Kelly, is ripping out her previous client’s throat.

Meet the Zombies.

Now, Sarah and David are fighting for survival in the middle of the zombie apocalypse. But, just because there are zombies, doesn’t mean your other problems go away. If the zombies don’t eat their brains, they might just kill each other.

Married With Zombies is a heartwarming tale of terror set during the time of the zombie uprising.

About the Author:
Jesse Petersen was born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Idaho and got married in Washington. She has a degree in Psychology from the University of Washington and has been writing for twelve years. Currently, she lives in the Midwest with her husband and two cats. When not writing, she enjoys reading, bike riding and volunteering at her local zoo.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Promo - Tomb with a View by Casey Daniels

Tomb with a View
A Pepper Martin Mystery, Book #6
Casey Daniels
Berkley Prime Crime - Penguin Group USA
ISBN:# 9780425235515
Release Date: July 6, 2010

About the Book:
Cemeteries come alive for amateur sleuth/reluctant medium Pepper Martin.

Cleveland’s Garden View Cemetery is hosting a James A. Garfield commemoration. For tour guide and reluctant medium Pepper Martin this means that she’ll surely be hearing from the dead president himself. And when she’s assigned to help plan the event with know-it-all volunteer and Garfield fanatic Marjorie Klinker, she’ll wish Marjorie were dead...too bad someone beats Pepper to it.

About the Author:
I learned to love mysteries early thanks to my dad, a Cleveland Police detective who enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes stories and spent his days off searching for stolen cars. Often on those trips, I was in the back seat and to this day, I have Dad to thank for my knowledge of some less-than-savory parts of the city. Later, I read my way through every mystery story I could get my hands on. Agatha Christie and Conan Doyle are still among my favorites.

I have a degree in English, experience as a journalist and writing teacher, and lots of ideas for more Pepper Martin mysteries. When I'm not writing, I'm usually with my family and our two dogs, Ernie, an adorable Airedale pup, and Oscar, a rescued Jack Russell who spends far too much time watching TV. I enjoy knitting, gardening and of course, stomping through cemeteries in search of history, stories and inspiration.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Promo - Mob Rules by Cameron Haley

Mob Rules
The Underworld Cycle, Book 1
Cameron Haley
Luna
ISBN# 9780373803200
Release Date: September 1, 2010

About the Book:
As LA plunges into an occult gang war, mob sorceress Domino Riley must unravel a conspiracy that reaches beyond the magic-soaked mean streets into a world of myth and legend.

Domino investigates the ritual execution of a mob associate, a graffiti magician named Jamal. The kid isn’t just dead, he’s been squeezed — the killer stole his magical power or “juice.” Domino summons Jamal’s shade, and the ghost points to Adan Rashan as his killer. This is tricky, because Adan is the favored son of Domino’s boss, Shanar Rashan, a six-thousand-year-old Sumerian wizard. It’s even trickier because only a mobbed-up sorcerer could have squeezed Jamal and Adan isn’t a sorcerer.

As the corpses pile up, Domino must confront the killer and unmask an otherworldly kingpin with designs on her gang’s magic-rich turf.

MOB RULES is an urban fantasy novel of murder and magic, betrayal and redemption set in the supernatural underworld of Los Angeles.

About the Author:
Cameron Haley is the pseudonym for Greg Benage, an aspiring writer who lives with his wife, Maria, in Minneapolis. When he’s not creating stories, Greg creates spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations as a senior product manager for one of the largest commercial banks in the U.S. MOB RULES will be his first published novel.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Friday, July 16, 2010

Promo - The Demon Hunt by Kris Greene

The Demon Hunt
The Dark Storm, Book 2
Kris Greene
St. Martin's Press/Macmillan
ISBN# 978-0-312-94423-0
Release Date: August 3, 2010

About the Book:
Soul-sucking demons. Half-human killers. Doomsday prophesies. No, this isn’t a late-night movie on cable TV. This is Gabriel’s life—or least, what’s left of it—ever since he discovered his true destiny as a warrior knight in the battle against darkness. Once an ordinary college kid studying lost legends in books, Gabriel now finds himself face to face with actual demons. As a warrior, he has no choice but to fight them. And if he screws it up, the world is toast…

A dimensional rift has opened between worlds. Which means more demons—and more death—than you could shake a proverbial stick at. Luckily, Gabriel has just the stick for the job, an ancient trident that gives him awesome demon-bashing powers. To watch his back he has the butt kicking half Demon De Mona and several unlikely heroes who he’s picked up along the way. To make matters more complicated two of Gabriel’s college buddies wind up dead and he finds that the demons aren’t the only ones who want a piece of his hide. The cops want him too—for murder…

About the Author:
In the 3rd grade a teacher once asked Kris what she wanted to be when she grew up, to which she responded ‘A witch.’ Growing up under not so pleasant conditions she often depended on her imagination to escape her day to day hardships and dreamt of a way to make her fictional escapes real and when she stumbled across a tattered copy of Interview with the Vampire she knew just how she would go about it, which led her to start keeping journals full of short stories which would eventually grow into action packed tales of sex, power and magic set in the New York City underworld.

Kris is the award winning author of several urban-fantasy novels, with the Dark Storm series being her first major releases. Kris resides in New York City where she spends her time writing and working in her herb garden.

To learn more about Kris and her titles please visit: http://www.mistresskris.com/

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Promo - Dark and Disorderly by Bernita Harris

Dark and Disorderly
The Adventures of Lillie St. Claire, Book 1
Bernita Harris
Carina Press
eISBN# 9781426890338
Release Date: June 28, 2010
Excerpt: from the book

About the Book:
"I was standing there naked when my dead husband walked into my bathroom..."

Lillie St. Claire is a Talent, one of the rare few who can permanently dispatch the spirits of the dead that walk the earth. Her skills are in demand in a haunted country, where a plague of ghosts is becoming a civic nuisance.

Those skills bring her into conflict with frightened citizens who view Talents as near-demons. Her husband comes to see her as a Freak; so when Nathan dies after a car crash, she is relieved to be free of his increasingly vicious presence. Lillie expects to be haunted by Nathan's ghost, but not to become Suspect #1 for her husband's murder and reanimation.

But what's most surprising of all is the growing attraction between her and psi-crime detective John Thresher. He thinks that Lillie killed Nathan—and Nathan must agree, because his zombie is seeking revenge. Now she and Thresher must work together to solve her husband's murder—before his corpse kills her...

About the Author:
Bernita Harris worked as a short-order cook, a library assistant and a less-than-serious actress before winning a university fellowship and earning a master's degree in English literature. Subsequently, she worked in public affairs and later as a forensic consultant in occult-related material, events, practices and beliefs.

A Libra and left-handed, she is drawn naturally to the sinister side of justice. She has grown four splendid children and now lives in an old house in the Thousand Islands with a German shepherd, a "mostly" corgi and ten thousand books. A Canadian who hates the cold and thrives on spring, she spends her time writing, tending her herb and flower gardens and negotiating with the dead.

Previous to Dark and Disorderly, her first novel, she has published occasional pieces of nonfiction, poetry and several short stories. You are invited to visit her blog at http://www.bernitaharris.blogspot.com/.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Promo - Beyond Exile by J.L. Bourne

Beyond Exile
Day by Day Armageddon, Book 2
J.L. Bourne
Permuted Press/Gallery Books
ISBN# 978-1439177525
Release Date: July 13, 2010

About the Book:
The first book of Day by Day Armageddon took us deep into the mind of a military officer and survivor as he made a New Year's resolution to start keeping a journal. The man kept his resolution and brought to us the fall of humanity, day by day. We see the man transition from the life that you and I live to the prospect of fighting for his very survival against the overwhelming hordes of the dead. We see him bleed, we see him make mistakes, we witness him evolve. The highly anticipated sequel to the bestselling underground cult classic, Day by Day Armageddon begins where the first novel left off.

BEGIN INTERCEPT
Armies of undead have risen up across the U.S. and around the globe;there is no safe haven from the diseased corpses hungering for human flesh. But in the heat of a Texas wasteland, a small band of survivors attempt to counter the millions closing in around them.
INTERCEPT COMPLETE

Day by day, the handwritten journal entries of one man caught in a worldwide cataclysm capture the desperation--and the will to survive--as he joins forces with a handful of refugees to battle soulless enemies both human and inhuman from inside an abandoned strategic missile facility.

But in the world of the undead, is mere survival enough?

About the Author:
J.L. Bourne began the Day by Day Armageddon project in 2002, posting regular serial updates on his website, JLbourne.com. Soon after self-publishing, he had sold one thousand copies, which quickly became two thousand. In conjunction with Permuted Press, Gallery Books re-released Day by Day Armageddon in October 2009, on a 50,000 copy first print run.

Collaborating with the popular metalcore band, The Devil Wears Prada, J.L. Bourne has written a bonus comic chapter that takes place in the DBDA: BEYOND EXILE universe, featuring members of the band and available in their upcoming EP. A commissioned U.S. military officer on active duty, J.L Bourne is available for interview, and members of The Devil Wear Prada are available for interview with him, to talk about their collaboration.*

J.L. Bourne is on active duty as a commissioned U.S. military officer. Born in Arkansas, he resides in Washington, D.C. Visit him at http://www.jlbourne.com/.


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Promo - Dark Oracle by Alayna Williams

Dark Oracle
Oracle Series, Book 1
Alayna Williams
Juno/Pocket Books
ISBN# 9781439167656
Release Date: May 25, 2010
Excerpt: Chapter One

About the Book:
TARA SHERIDAN HAS A GIFT...
AND IT ALMOST KILLED HER.

As a criminal profiler, Tara used science and her intuitive skill at Tarot card divination to track down the dangerous and depraved, including the serial killer who left her scarred from head to toe. Since that savage attack, Tara has been a recluse. But now an ancient secret society known as Delphi's Daughters has asked for her help in locating missing scientist Lowell Magnusson. And Tara, armed with her Tarot deck, her .38, and a stack of misgivings, agrees to try.

Tara immediately senses there is far more at stake than one man's life. At his government lab in the New Mexico desert, Magnusson had developed groundbreaking technology with terrifying potential. Working alongside the brusque but charismatic agent Harry Li, Tara discovers that Magnusson's daughter, Cassie, has knowledge that makes her a target too. The more Tara sees into the future, the more there is to fear. She knows she has to protect Cassie. But there may be no way to protect herself--from the enemies circling around her, or from the long-buried powers stirring to life within....

About the Author:
Alayna Williams has an MA in sociology-criminology (research interests: fear of crime and victimology) and a BA in criminology. She has worked in and around criminal justice since 1997. Although she does read Tarot cards, she's never used them in criminal profiling or to locate lost scientists. She recently took up astronomy, but for the most part her primary role in studying constellations and dark matter is to follow her amateur astronomer-husband around central Ohio toting the telescope tripod and various lenses. Like the Pythia in Dark Oracle, she's been known to belly dance. Unlike the Pythia she'd never consider herself a professional.

"Alayna" is also known as Laura Bickle, the author of Embers from Pocket Juno.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Monday, July 12, 2010

Promo - Haunted Honeymoon by Marta Acosta

Haunted Honeymoon
Casa Dracula, Book #4
Marta Acosta
Gallery Books/Simon and Schuster, Inc.
ISBN# 978-1416598879
Release Date: October 5, 2010

About the Book:
Will she get another chance with the vamp that got away?

As the only human to survive vampire infection, Milagro de Los Santos has become quite a celebrity among the blood-drinking elite. Too bad the perks of her condition—increased strength, super-fast healing—don’t pay her condo fees. There are other complications too. She feels guilty about her fling with decadent, enigmatic Vampire Council member Ian Ducharme, and she pines for her ex-fiancĂ©, Dr. Oswald Grant . . . the fabulous man whose kiss changed her life.

It’s when Milagro—upset by Ian’s attentions to his neighbor—travels to London and enjoys a sexy flirtation of her own, that the blood really hits the fan. Suddenly, those around her are dying gruesome deaths and Milagro’s being interrogated. Who would kill to set her up as a murder suspect?

All she wants to is turn back the clock and have another chance to make things right. No sooner has she escaped to Oswald’s ranch than an accident obliterates her memory. Will the murderer come after her, and will amnesia spark a romantic do-over with Oswald—or will Milagro make all the same mistakes before she ever gets to say “I do”?

About the Author:
Marta Acosta is the author of the award-winning Casa Dracula books. She's also written Nancy's Theory of Style, a romantic comedy, under the pen name Grace Coopersmith. She blogs daily at Vampire Wire, http://www.vampirewire.blogspot.com//, which features paranormal and urban fantasy news and interviews. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her family and rescued dogs, Bosco and Betty. Her website is http://www.martaacosta.com//.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Thank You...and a bit of Talking True Blood

Thanks so much for the comments,emails, and tweets welcoming me back!  It's great to talk with everyone again. 

So...Who's a True Blood fan?  Was I the only one not paying attention and thought we'd get a new episode on the 4th?  Heh, I should have realized.  It's about an hour before this week's episode comes on here, and I'm sure looking forward to seeing more of Joe Manganiello.  Tall, dark, and handsome...how yummy, yes?

Any favorite characters, or are there characters you'd like to see disappear?  Predictions for the season, or pairings you'd like to see?  I'd love to hear it!

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Promo - Fatal Circle by Linda Robertson

Fatal Circle
Persephone Alcmedi, Book 3
Linda Robertson
Juno Books/Pocket Books
ISBN# 9781439156803
Release Date: June 29, 2010
Excerpt: Chapter One

About the Book:
Destiny sucks...

There was a time when Persephone Alcmedi thought her life was hard to manage, what with wondering how to make sure she took adequate care of both her grandmother and her foster daughter, Beverley, whether she'd end up in the unwanted position of high priestess of a coven, and whether her waerewolf lover, Johnny, would resist the groupies who hang around his band Lycanthropia. But that was before the fairies started demanding that Seph's frightening, unpredictable ally--the ancient vampire Menessos--be destroyed... or the world will suffer. Seph and Menessos are magically bonded, but that's a secret she dares not reveal to her fellow witches lest they be forced to reject her and forbid her use of magic. And, despite the strain this casts on her relationship with Johnny, as a showdown with the fairies nears, she and Menessos badly need the waerewolves as allies.

Life, death, and love are all on the line, but when destiny is calling, it doesn't help to turn away. With the individual threads of their fates twisted inextricably together, can Seph, Johnny, and Menessos keep the world safe from fairy vengeance?

About the Author:
LINDA ROBERTSON is the mother of four wonderful boys, owns three electric guitars, is followed around by two big dogs, and loves one rockin' fella named Jim. Once upon a time she was a lead guitarist in a heavy metal cover band and has worked as a graphic artist. She still composes and creates art, when time permits. Linda is currently the webmistress and Art Director for Strictly 7 Guitars, Jim's seven-string guitar company. She writes and rocks in northeast Ohio. Her website is www.wolfsbaneandabsinthe.com and she blogs about writing and everything from guitars to coffee, Tarot to margaritas.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Promo - Shadow Chase by Seressia Glass

Shadow Chase
Shadowchasers, Book 2
Seressia Glass
Juno Books/Pocket Books
ISBN# 9781439158777
Release Date: July 27, 2010
Excerpt: Chapter One

About the Book:
As a Shadowchaser, Kira Solomon has been trained to serve the Light, dispatch the Fallen, and prevent the spread of chaos. It's a deadly job, and Kira knows the horror of spilling innocent blood. But now she has a new role, as the Hand of Ma'at, the Egyptian Goddess of Truth and Order, and an assignment that might just redeem her.

A fellow Shadowchaser has gone missing, and so has a unique artifact imbued with astonishing magic. Unless the Vessel of Nun is returned, it will cause destruction beyond anything the modern world has seen. Kira's got a team at her back, including Khefar, a near-immortal Nubian warrior who's already died for her once. But as complicated as her feelings for him are, they're nothing compared to the difficulties of the task she faces. And the only way to defeat the enemy at hand is to trust in a power she can barely control, and put her life--and her soul--on the line.

About the Author:
Seressia Glass has always been a voracious reader, cutting her teeth on comics, cereal boxes--anything at hand. So it came as no surprise to family and teachers when she began creating stories featuring some of her favorite characters. One of her earlier works included the autobiography of a piece of bubble gum, and a short Halloween story was turned into a PTA play in elementary school.

Her proudest writing moment remains winning the first Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday "Living the Dream" essay contest as a high school senior and getting to meet Coretta Scott King. Since then, she's channeled her belief in the power of the written word by creating rich, emotional stories of diverse people coming together to achieve the universal goals of love and acceptance.

When not working on her next story, Seressia is an instructional designer for an international home improvement company. She spends her free time people-watching, belly dancing, and watching way too much anime.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews