Review - Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong

Men of the Otherworld
A Collection of Otherworld Tales, Volume 1
Kelley Armstrong
Bantam
January 27, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-553-80709-7

Book Blurb:
New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong has captivated readers with her spellbinding Women of the Otherworld series. Now, for the first time, in this collection of four tales she gives center stage to the men who love these sexy, supernatural women—the men who live on the other side of humanity…the wild side.

As a curious six-year-old, Clayton didn’t resist the bite—he asked for it. But surviving as a lone child-werewolf was more than he could manage—until Jeremy came along and taught him how to straddle the human-werewolf worlds, gave him a home…and introduced him to the Pack. So begins this tantalizing volume, featuring three of the most intriguing members of the American Pack—a hierarchical founding family where bloodlines mean everything and each day presents a new, thrilling, and often deadly challenge. For as Clayton grows from a wild child to a clever teen who tests his beloved mentor at every turn, he must learn not only to control his animal instincts but to navigate Pack politics—including showing his brutal archnemesis, Malcolm, who the real Alpha is....

From the nature of fear, weakness, and courage, to the triumph of belonging and the complications of love and loyalty, these mesmerizing tales reveal the trials of a werewolf coming-of-age, and lay bare the hearts and minds of the men strong enough for the women of the Otherworld—and adept enough to take on two worlds.

My thoughts:
Men of the Otherworld is a collection of short stories, and while fans may have read many of them as they were shared on the author’s website, it’s wonderful to have them together in one bound book. The collection is nicely finished with a new Jeremy and Jaime story in the end.

From Jeremy’s birth that was unwanted by his father Malcolm, to his role as adoptive father and mentor to Clayton, the stories provide many answers. Ms. Armstrong solidly establishes the origins of some favorite werewolves, keeps readers engrossed as the tales unfold, and always leaves them wanting more.

Proceeds from Men of the Otherworld are going to World Literacy of Canada.

To learn more about the men and women of the Otherworld, please visit Ms. Armstrong’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Road Trip of the Living Dead by Mark Henry

Road Trip of the Living Dead
Amanda Feral, Celebrity Ghoul, Book 2
Mark Henry
Kensington Books
February 24, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-7582-2524-5

Book Blurb:
Celebrity party girl Amanda Feral is back from the dead, and hungrier than ever for a good time. With her zombie gal pal Wendy and vampy gay sidekick Gil, this stone cold fox is dressed to kill, on the prowl, and ready to take a big juicy bite out of Seattle's supernatural nightlife. But what's a zombie chick to do when her "Mommie Dearest" gets sick? If you're Amanda Feral, you can either ignore the wicked old witch-or bury the past by visiting Ethel before she kicks it. Amanda's not thrilled about the idea of crossing three states just to be criticized. But Wendy, who's always looking for fresh meat, is up for the adventure. And Gil, who just launched his "luxury" resurrection business, needs to disappear because a pissed-off client is out for his blood.

First, they pack their stiletto pumps and plasma into a skeevy rattrap on wheels that used to be a Winnebago. Then, with a little help from a Korean-ghost hood ornament, a masochist named Fishhook, and a slew of "moderately accurate" psychics, they hit the highway-their way. Of course, they'll have to navigate past some neo-Nazi skinheads, a horny dust devil, a hunky werewolf cop (who could pass for an underwear model) and an unsightly horde of Kmart shoppers. But for this glamorous gang of ghouls this trip is about to take a dangerous detour that could give road kill a brand new meaning.

My thoughts:
When an unforeseen incident with Gil’s business venture sends him on the run, and Wendy’s badgering on why she should make peace with her mother before her impending death starts to get to her, Amanda agrees to a road trip. Seeing Ethel, the mother she despises, will give her the opportunity to tell her exactly what she thinks of her one last time. With chaos and death following them from state to state, facing her mother briefly takes a back seat as the trouble making trio picks up new passengers, solves a mystery, and hunts down psychics along the way.

This is the second installment in the Amanda Feral, Celebrity Ghoul series. Mr. Henry has an incredible talent for keeping his characters unique and making them impossible for readers to forget. Road Trip of the Living Dead offers all of the ghastly death and dismemberment that fans are expecting, along with more humorous scenes than ever. If you can stomach a bit of gore with your giggles then this fiendishly fun story and its footnotes are sure to be a hit.

To learn more about Road Trip of the Living Dead, please visit Mr. Henry’s website: Here

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - You're the One that I Haunt by Terri Garey

You’re the One that I Haunt
Nicki Styx, Book 3
Terri Garey
Avon Books
February 24, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-06-158203-5

Book Blurb:
The devil went down to Georgia . . .

Nicki Styx has always known that the devil's in the details—but does he have to move in next door, too? Worse, he won't take no for an answer. Nicki would never leave her beloved boyfriend, ER doc Joe Bascombe, but hell hath no fury like a devil scorned. He's determined to make Nicki's life a living hell—even if it means exposing Nicki as an unwilling ghoulfriend to the dead.

Now, just when she was getting used to being able to see and hear—and help—spirits, Nicki's got a whole new set of problems. With ghosts descending from all sides, the bereaved knocking down her door, and Joe trying to take things to the next level, Nicki may finally be in over her head. It would be so easy to dance with the devil . . . but if Nicki crosses over to the dark side, she may never leave.

My thoughts:
After a brush with death, Nicki Styx started seeing spirits and while helping them find peace is the right thing to do, it isn’t an easy task. When the devil himself opens a shop near her own, and makes it clear that his interest in her is far from harmless, Nicki finds herself with more troubles than ever.

Nicki’s boyfriend, Joe Bascome, the man who once saved her life in the ER, has just had one of many bad days at work. Little does he know it’s about to get worse when the woman he couldn’t save comes looking for vengeance and will stop at nothing to achieve that goal. Caught between the woman he loves and the job he’s worked so hard to secure, Joe may be forced to make a very difficult choice.

This is the third novel in the Nicki Styx series, and for Nicki living with the dead is about to take a drastic turn. Ms. Garey takes readers on a new ghostly adventure, adding a surprising twist to the storyline. While unfolding at a slower pace than the previous installments, You’re the One that I Haunt is entertaining and blends the horrors and humor that’s become Nicki’s life. The ending will leave readers wondering, and looking forward to the next visit with Nicki and her friends.

To learn more about You’re the One that I Haunt, please visit Ms. Garey’s website: HERE

You can get a sneak peek inside You're the One that I Haunt at the publisher's website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Blood Blade by Marcus Pelegrimas

Blood Blade
Skinners, Book 1
Marcus Pelegrimas
Harper
January 26, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-06-146305-1

Book blurb:
Welcome to the nightmare . . .

There is a world you don't know about, inhabited by supernatural creatures of darkness-vampires, werewolves, and all manner of savage, impossible beasts that live for terror and slaughter and blood. They are all around us but you cannot see them, for knowledge of their presence-so close and so hungry-would surely drive any ordinary human insane.

But for centuries a special breed of hunter has kept the monsters at bay, preventing them from breaking through the increasingly fragile barriers protecting our mortal realm.These guardians are called skinners.

But beware . . . for there are very few of them left.

My thoughts:
The closest Cole Warnecki comes to excitement in his life is at the controls of the video games he designs. In need of some time off, he accepts an invitation on a hunting trip, thinking that this vacation will get his creativity flowing and help him work out some bugs in his current project. What he finds soon after his group reaches the lodge is that nothing could have prepared him for what came next, but Cole manages to survive.

Granting a dying man’s last wishes, Cole meets up with Paige, a Skinner in Chicago. She’s among the few who are brave or crazy enough to guard the human race against the supernatural creatures most know nothing about. Now Cole will have to decide where his future lies.

This is the first installment in the Skinners series. Mr. Pelegrimas snares the reader’s attention early on with this intriguing story, and provides a steady stream of action at every turn. Blood Blade is vividly detailed, making it impossible not to be swept up in the fight. In the midst of death and destruction there is a softer side that should please romance fans and leave them eager for more of in the next Skinners release.

To learn more about Blood Blade, please visit the website of Mr. Pelegrimas: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Desire Unchained by Larissa Ione

Desire Unchained
Demonica, Book 2
Larissa Ione
Forever
February 24, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-446-40098-5

Book Blurb:
Pleasure is their ultimate weapon . . .

Runa Wagner never meant to fall in love with the sexy stranger who seemed to know her every deepest desire. But she couldn't resist the unbelievable passion that burned between them, a passion that died when she discovered his betrayal and found herself forever changed. Now, determined to make Shade pay for the transformation that haunts her, Runa searches for him, only to be taken prisoner by his darkest enemy.

A Seminus Demon with a love-curse that threatens him with eternal torment, Shade hoped he'd seen the last of Runa and her irresistible charm. But when he wakes up in a dank dungeon chained next to an enraged and mysteriously powerful Runa, he realizes that her effect on him is more dangerous than ever.

As their captor casts a spell that bonds them as lifemates, Shade and Runa must fight for their lives and their hearts-or succumb to a madman's evil plans.

My thoughts:
Shade is a Seminus Demon who, along with his brothers, runs a hospital that specializes in those who are other than human. His nature, as well as a curse, causes him to be a love them and leave them kind of guy. One woman through the years got under his skin, and he’s about to realize that she never really left.

Runa Wagner blames Shade for the attack she survived, and for what she’s become. Now trapped and held in a dungeon by someone out to destroy Shade and his brothers, they find themselves bound together in a way that only death may be able change.

This is the second book in the Demonica trilogy and centers around Shade and Runa. Ms. Ione adds many twists and turns to her demon filled world that shock and delight in equal measure. The relationships are steamy and the secondary characters help to enrich the storyline. Desire Unchained is a captivating read with the love and support shown between brothers, and should appeal to readers who enjoy sizzling romance with their fantasy.

To learn more about Desire Unchained, please visit Ms. Ione’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Mona Lisa Darkening by Sunny

Mona Lisa Darkening
Monére: Children of the Moon, Book 4
Sunny
Berkley
January 6, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-425-22647-6

Book Blurb:
From the time she was an orphan child, Mona Lisa knew she was different—but she never knew how different. As a Mixed-Blood daughter of the Monère, she rules her own domain in the Louisiana Bayou. But her life of power is about to be lost, and Mona Lisa must survive a realm in which she is divided from within…

On the vernal equinox, when night equals day and the barriers between worlds become gossamer thin, Mona Lisa gathers her people beneath the full moon. Instead of drawing down the replenishing white light of the moon, a terrifying darkness descends upon her and takes her into NetherHell—the cursed realm of the damned. In this place, the evil queen whose essence shares Mona Lisa’s body is strong enough to fight her host for control—and she does.

But in NetherHell, Mona Lisa’s internal struggle is only the beginning. Captured by a Gargoyle warlord who wants her for his own, Mona Lisa is torn from both within and without by desire, love, and ecstasy. And when her first love crosses the boundaries of the world to rescue her, she must choose her own destiny—before others choose it for her…

My thoughts:
Mona Lisa is a mixed-blood queen among the Monére. As children of the moon they gather to bask in its light when the moon is full. This night is a special one, the vernal equinox, and something has taken advantage of the wekened veil between worlds. With her people gathered around her, darkness snatches her away and she finds herself in another realm, one that’s worse than Hell.

NetherHell is home to the damned, and it’s not long before a warlord’s henchmen capture Mona Lisa. He’s a gargoyle separated from his people, lord of his own domain, and she may be just what he’s looking for. She’ll do what she must to survive, but soon enough those she loves will find her, and when they do choices will have to be made. Sharing her body with the presence of a former queen has been a well-kept secret, but now that secret may have the power to take Mona Lisa’s decision out of her hands.

This is the fourth novel in the Monére: Children of the Moon series. With a fine eye on detail, Sunny transports readers to another realm right along with her characters. Mona Lisa Darkening is a well-balanced emotional tale of love, loss and the risks taken for happiness. A wonderful series that fans of fantasy with a dark and sexy side shouldn’t miss.

To learn more about Mona Lisa Darkening, please visit Sunny’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Kill For Me by Karen Rose

Kill for Me
Karen Rose
Grand Central
February 2, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-446-51030-1

Book Blurb from the author’s website:
Six teenage girls have been kidnapped. Five have been murdered. One survived. Only she can reveal the secrets of a disturbing ring of people who kidnap and sell teenage girls on the black market. But those responsible for the crimes will do whatever it takes to maintain her silence.

Susannah Vartanian and Luke Papadopoulos have both sworn to stop the murderers for their own personal reasons. The investigation will lead them to the shady realm of Internet chat rooms, where anyone can mask their identity. They soon discover a chain of deception so intricate they don't know who to trust. Finding comfort in each other's arms, they begin to unravel the intricately knotted threads, but the killers are ruthless and determined, and won't hesitate to take extreme measures to insure their anonymity and keep their business intact. When Susannah discovers an unexpected link to the girl she is trying to save, her life is soon in danger and Luke will do everything he can to save the woman he loves.

My thoughts:
As teenage girls are being kidnapped, used, and sold to the highest bidder, Susannah Vartanian returns home to the place where it all seems to have started. Dutton, Georgia, holds the secrets she keeps from her past, things she’d rather not remember. She’s an assistant DA in New York who encourages victims to speak out against the crimes they’ve endured. Now it’s Susannah’s turn to take a stand. With her help the GBI has more leads on their current case, and they hope to stop the twisted people involved in destroying young lives.

Luke Papadopoulos is an agent with the GBI and has seen more than his share of crimes against children. Young girls are disappearing and the trail leads back to the Dutton area, a place where an insane killer has struck before. From the first time Luke sees Susannah he’s attracked to her, and seeing her strength through the case those feelings grow stronger. They each carry emotional scars that make relationships difficult, but if they survive this case they may still have a chance.

Kill for Me picks-up after Scream for Me and provides some shocking revelations as the story unfolds. Ms. Rose executes an intricate plot and does it with amazing skill. Dark secrets paint a vivid picture as young lives are forever destroyed by some of the worst evils seen in humanity. This is suspense at it’s darkest best.

To learn more about Kill for Me, please visit Ms. Rose’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Promo - Patricia Briggs Upcoming Tour Dates

The publicist for Ms. Briggs and her Mercy Thompson series was kind enough to share the following information:

Here are the upcoming tour stops for national-bestseller Patricia Briggs, whose FIRST hardcover, BONE CROSSED:A Mercy Thompson Novel, is being published by ACE on February 3.

As you know, Patricia is a fantastic writer whose creativity and respect for a good storyline and characters make the Mercy Thompson series so exciting and unpredictable. It is a refreshing opportunity to become immersed in a dangerous and magical world where you can’t predict what is coming, with an ending that never disappoints.

Kicking off her tour in Seattle, Patty will be traveling to the following cities and stores:

February 3
University Books
7:00PM
Seattle, Washington

February 4
Third Place Books
7:00PM
Lake Forest Park, Washington

February 5
Powell’s Books (Beaverton Store)
7:00PM
Portland, Oregon

February 6
Borderlands Books
7:00PM
San Francisco, California

February 7
Mysterious Galaxy Books
2:00PM
San Diego, California

February 8
Barnes & Noble (Bella Terra)
2:00PM
Huntington Beach, California

February 9
Borders (Waters Place)
7:00PM
Ann Arbor, Michigan

To learn more about The Mercy Thompson series and Bone Crossed, please visit Ms. Briggs: HERE or ACE (A Penguin Group imprint): HERE


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

I've Been Tagged by Ruthie!

Ruthie, from Ruthie’s Book Reviews has tagged me, so it’s my turn to share it with 6 others. Thank you Ruthie!!

Here are the rules:
Link to the person who has tagged you.
Write down six things that make you happy.
Post the rules.
Tag six others and let them know you did it.
Then tell the person when your entry is complete.

Six things that make me happy:

1. Hearing my son laugh
2. Spending time with my family
3. Reading
4. Blue sky and sunshine
5. Creating - Paper crafts (cards, scrapbooks, stamping, etc)
6. The friendships I've made in life

Six bloggers that I’m choosing to tag:

1. Harry from Temple Library Reviews
2. Rachael from What I am Reading
3. Angie from Angieville
4. Christine from The Romantic Life
5. Stacy from ScooperSpeaks
6. Samantha from Sam’s Book Blog


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - The Vampire Agent by P. Rosemoor & M. Paoletti

The Vampire Agent
Annals of Alchemy and Blood, Book 2
Patricia Rosemoor & Marc Paoletti
Ballantine Books
December 30, 2008
ISBN# 978-0-345-50105-9

Book Blurb:
On the sultry streets of New Orleans, Captain Scott Boulder and Leah Maguire are about to begin a deadly mission. The traumatized, genetically altered subjects of a Department of Defense experiment gone wrong have escaped, among them Rachel Ackart, a beautiful, seductive, and powerful woman–who is now under the dangerous influence of Andre Espinoza de Madrid, a vampire of incomparable evil and power.

While Predator drones circle above New Orleans, and the sound of Black Hawk helicopters rends the air, Scott and Leah must fight their growing attraction to each other as they pursue their quarry amid the haunted and the damned. But Rachel is one step ahead of them. Andre’s vampire agent will soon unleash the greatest terror of all.

My thoughts:
He had once been the only member of his team that was not genetically enhanced, but now Captain Scott Boulder’s blood is contaminated by an old and powerful vampire. The evil presence they thought to have been destroyed, Andre Espinoza de Madrid, is back and influencing the actions of Rachel Ackart, a dangerous woman with the power to destroy all who stand in her way.

As Leah Maguire stands by Scott, lending her own magical strengths to stop both Rachel and Andre, her feelings for the Captain continue to grow. Together they may be able to find the Philosopher’s Stone and stop the evil threat that it helps to fuel, but it could be at a price that’s too high to pay.

This is the second book in the Annals of Alchemy and Blood series. Rosemoor and Paoletti provide a story filled with action, romance, and plenty of soul searching along the way. The Vampire Agent moves the overall storyline ahead a few paces, and will leave readers with many questions on what the future holds for Scott and Leah.

You can learn more about The Vampire Agent by visiting Ms. Rosemoor’s website: HERE or by visiting Mr. Paoletti’s website: HERE


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Evermore by Alyson Noel

Evermore
The Immortals, Book 1
Alyson Noël
St. Martin’s Griffin
February 3, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-312-53275-8

Book blurb:
Since a horrible accident claimed the lives of her family, Ever can see auras, hear people's thoughts, and know a person's entire life story by touch. Going out of her way to avoid human contact and suppress her abilities has branded her as a freak at her new high school—but everything changes when she meets Damen.

Damen Auguste is gorgeous, exotic and wealthy. He's the only one who can silence the noise and random energy in her head—wielding a magic so intense, it's as though he can see straight into her soul. As Ever is drawn deeper into his enticing world of secrets and mystery, she's left with more questions than answers. She has no idea just who he really is—or what he is. The only thing she knows to be true is she's falling deeply and helplessly in love with him.

My thoughts:
When a car accident leaves Ever as the only survivor in her family, she chooses to move to her Aunt Sabine’s rather than staying in her hometown in foster care. Her aunt’s a lawyer, and rarely home, so Ever begins a new life on her own more often than not.

Being new in school is never an easy task, and for Ever the change has been more than just the move. When she lost her family she gained a gift she wished she hadn’t, because knowing people’s inner thoughts takes away the mystery in life and puts Ever in a very uncomfortable position. Then she meets Damen, and the constant jumble of thoughts and emotions are forgotten when he’s near. As gorgeous as he is, and as peaceful as she feels when they’re together, she still believes that he’s hiding something big. When she finally learns the truth, Ever will have to decide whether to accept the news or force herself to say good-bye forever.

This is the first installment of The Immortals series. Ms. Noël pens a well-detailed story that makes it easy for the reader to visualize both the characters and the world around them. Evermore has a familiar theme that attracts readers, but inside this book you’ll find that the author has added some unique details that sets it apart. This is a young adult novel that should appeal to both teens and adults.

To learn more about Evermore, please visit the author’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Undone by Rachel Caine

Undone
Outcast Season, Book 1
Rachel Caine
ROC
February 3, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-451-46261-9

Book Blurb:
Once she was Cassiel, a Djinn of limitless power. Now, she has been reshaped in human flesh as punishment for defying her master—and living among the Weather Wardens, whose power she must tap into regularly or she will die. And as she copes with the emotions and frailties of her human condition, a malevolent entity threatens her new existence...

My thoughts:
Refusing to do the task that her master has ordered, Cassiel has been cast out from the Djinn. Forced into a fragile body, with little knowledge of surviving as a human, she’s forced to rely on the Weather Wardens for help. They provide Cassiel with what she needs to stay alive, including the energy she’d die without.

Cassiel has been partnered with Manny, a warden who’s willing to work with her. Following a surprise visit from his warden brother, Luis, they’re all on alert. Something or someone is focused on destroying them, and only as a team can any of them hope to survive.

This is the first installment in the Outcast Season series, a new storyline that shares many of its wonderful characters with the Weather Warden series. Ms. Caine takes readers on a fabulous new journey and introduces us to a powerful new heroine who’s been forced into a reality she’s not equipped to handle. Undone well exceeded my expectations, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where the series will go from here.

To learn more about the Outcast Season series, please visit Ms. Caine’s website: Here

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Blog Promo - Urban Fantasy Land - Reader's Choice Awards

Urban Fantasy Land is having a 2008 Reader's Choice Awards! Follow the instructions and you'll be entered to win a $25 gift certificate. Polls close Midnight on January 30th, so get over there and vote! You can visit the poll: HERE




Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Publisher Promo - Dorchester expanding to eBook

Dorchester Publishing to Deliver Entire Frontlist and Selected Backlist in eBook and Digital Formats

Technology from LibreDigital to Help Dorchester Expand Distribution

NEW YORK – January 13, 2009 – LibreDigital, Inc., today announced that Dorchester Publishing will use the LibreDigital’s ePublishing Solutions to extend its book selling to new digital channels, including eBooks, the web and a variety of digital eReaders – all while protecting copyrights. The move will give millions of readers new ways to access Dorchester’s extensive book catalog which includes titles from New York Times best-selling authors Christine Feehan, Nina Bangs, Angie Fox, Marjorie M. Liu and C.L. Wilson, as well as legendary classics from authors Zane Grey and Louis L’Amour.

“Our business is built on a tradition of giving readers the highest quality books at the best value,” said John C. Prebich, President and CEO of Dorchester Publishing. “Working with LibreDigital, we can provide millions of loyal readers with new digital delivery options so they can access their favorite titles on eReaders, mobile phones or computers while protecting the value accrued by our brand.”

Dorchester Publishing has published mass market books since 1971, making it the oldest independent mass market publisher in America. Known for its collection of romance novels, Dorchester also publishes world-class horror, thrillers and western titles, as well as the award-winning Hard Case Crime line of pulp-style mysteries, science fiction and fantasy titles from the award-winning Wildside Press. In addition, Dorchester is now distributing the bestselling Family Doctor series of health guides in the US and Canada.

“Dorchester Publishing is a great example of how publishers are expanding book delivery options to meet the changing needs of consumers,” said Russell P. Reeder, President and CEO of LibreDigital. “By making their works accessible in multiple digital formats, Dorchester Publishing is ensuring that consumers can find and access their favorite titles whenever and however they want - whether it’s through a search engine, an iPhone application like Stanza or on an eReader from Sony or Amazon. We’re hearing from our customers that, even in a down economy, the sale of eBooks is growing more quickly than they expected.”

Serving many of the world’s largest media and publishing companies, LibreDigital develops market-leading interactive digital publishing solutions for organizations seeking to attract new channels and partners for the sales of their titles. LibreDigital also helps publishers market and control their valuable works across an ever-expanding variety of digital formats, including eBooks, E Ink, online, mobile and print-on-demand delivery options.

About LibreDigital
LibreDigital is a Digital Media Services company that provides conversion, storage and secured distribution for digital content through digital stores and new eBook devices worldwide. Helping publishers of newspapers, magazines, books and journals to market and control their valuable works across traditional and new digital formats, LibreDigital serves the world’s top firms in over 120 countries including, HarperCollins Publishers, Hachette USA, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, John Wiley & Sons and Simon & Schuster and now Dorchester Publishing. Backed by Adams Capital Management, Noro-Moseley Partners, the New York Times Company, and HarperCollins Publishers, LibreDigital is based in Austin, Texas, with offices in New York City and the United Kingdom. www.libredigital.com

Review - Pride by Rachel Vincent

Pride
Werecats, Book 3
Rachel Vincent
Mira
February 1, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-7783-2649-6

Book Blurb:
Here's hoping cats do have nine lives

I’m on trial for my life. Accused of infecting my human ex-boyfriend—and killing him to cover up the crime. I’m not guilty. But tell that to the panel of Alphas sitting in judgment. Infecting a human is one of three capital offenses recognized by the Pride—along with murder and disclosure of our existence to a human.

I’m two for three. A goner. On top of that, Marc is in danger of being tossed from the Pride, then we discovered a rogue stray terrorizing the mountainside, hunting a wild teenage tabbycat. I think I can protect her from both the ambitious rogue and the scheming of the territorial council.
If I survive my own trial…

My thoughts:
Faythe Sanders is currently on trial for murder, though she swears it was self defense, and her family believes it’s the truth. Her father is alpha of their Pride, but he’s only one voice with few on his side and many working against him.

Humans are missing, and the clock is ticking to locate a group of rogues before the local police discover the truth of what they are. In the process of hunting them down a young tabby is found, and now Faythe has more than her own future to concentrate on. Her every action is being monitored, along with those she holds dear. One wrong move could cost them everything.

This is the third book in the Werecats series, and Faythe’s future may depend on what value she is to others. Ms. Vincent takes readers on an emotion filled adventure as the fate of one character profoundly affects the future of many. Pride provides fast moving action, surprising twists in the storyline, and gives readers a good look at the darker side of the author’s intriguing world of werecats. In order to fully understand what’s happening to Faythe, her family, and friends, the Werecats series should be enjoyed from the beginning.

To learn more about Pride, please visit Ms. Vincent’s website: Here

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Film Promo - Ink - National Press Release

Indie Sci-Fi Fantasy Ink to Premiere at Santa Barbara

It’s a Wonderful Life meets Sin City in this high-concept visual thriller. John and Emma, father and daughter, are thrust into a fantastical dream-world battle between forces of good and evil in this allegorical tale of love, loss and the search for redemption. Please view the trailer here: Ink Trailer

Denver, CO, January 12th 2009 - Jamin Winans' feature film Ink will have its world premiere at the 24th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which runs from January 22nd through February 2nd, 2009. Ink is one of only seven films in the independent features competition. This year the festival is honoring Hollywood powerhouses Clint Eastwood, Kate Winslet, Penelope Cruz, Kristen Scott Thomas and Mickey Rourke.

Winans both wrote the screenplay and directed the film - entirely shot, produced and cast out of Denver, Colorado. The Ink trailer, released in early December on YouTube, has 18,000 hits and continues to climb steadily. Distributor interest has been high and Winans is eager to get distributors into the audience at the premiere. “There is a real excitement about Ink. The thing I am most proud of is that it’s completely unique, both thematically and visually.”

Ink follows 8-year-old Emma, portrayed with excellence by Quinn Hunchar, through a mysterious dream-world. Dragged along by the mercenary Ink, colorful characters emerge to fight for Emma’s life. This fight also rages within Emma’s tragically broken father, played by the outstanding Chris Kelly, who must come to terms with his demons.

About Jamin Winans
Jamin is a 31-year-old writer/director living and working in Denver, Colorado. He established Double Edge Films there nine years ago and has made several critically acclaimed shorts and a feature film 11:59, which has worldwide distribution. His last short film Spin was the only film to win two awards at the 2006 Santa Barbara Independent Film Festival and went on to play over 80 festivals and bring home over 40 awards. Spin has 3 million hits across YouTube and has played on television in the US, Russia, Germany, France and Denmark. For more information, please visit http://www.doubleedgefilms.com/.


About Santa Barbara International Film Festival
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching local culture and raising consciousness of film as an art form. SBIFF presents quality American and world independent films, Latin American and Asian sidebars as well as documentary cinema within the beautiful setting of downtown Santa Barbara, a premier tourist destination. The SBIFF is also committed to education through its 10- 10-10 Student Filmmaking and Screenwriting Competitions, Field Trip to the Movies, and educational seminars. With a projected audience of over 70,000 viewing more than 200 films over its eleven-day run, the SBIFF attracts an affluent local and national consumer base, while maintaining strong ties with the entertainment industry in nearby Los Angeles. For more information, please visit http://www.sbfilmfestival.org/.

Promo - Book Giveaway at Vampire Wire

Marta Acosta at Vampire Wire has an interview up with Justin Gustainis, as well as a book giveaway! You have until Saturday night to enter the contest to win your copy of Evil Ways.

You can Read the VW interview and enter the contest: HERE



You can read the DR review of Evil Ways: HERE

You can read the DR Q & A with Justin: HERE



Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - The Magic Knot by Helen Scott Taylor

The Magic Knot
Helen Scott Taylor
Dorchester Publishing
January 27, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-505-52796-7

Book Blurb:
HE’S A BIKER WITH AN ATTITUDE

What woman wouldn’t be attracted to Niall O’Connor’s soft Irish brogue and dark good looks? But Rosenwyn Tremain must find her father, and she isn’t going to let a sexy, stubborn Irishman and his motorcycle distract her. Rose’s intuition tells her he’s hiding something, a secret even the cards cannot divine. Her tarot deck always reads true, but how can one man represent both Justice and Betrayal?

SHE’S A WOMAN ON A MISSION

Magic. Niall’s body tingles with it when he finds the woman snooping in his room. Rosenwyn might believe she’s a no-nonsense accountant, but her essence whispers to him of ancient fairy magic that enslaves even as it seduces. Her heritage could endanger those he’d die to protect, but her powers and her passion, if properly awakened, might be the only thing that can save both their families, vanquish a fairy queen bent on revenge, and fulfill a prophecy that will bind their hearts together with…THE MAGIC KNOT

My thoughts:
Rosenwyn Tremain’s mother gave her a warning that she chose not to heed, and she’s about to find out what would happen. When her job takes her to Cornwall, where her father resides, she’s determined to meet with him. After lifetime spent in her mother’s shadow she has plenty of questions for the man who fathered her. First she has a job to do, and the uncooperative O’Connor brothers aren’t making it easy.

Niall O’Connor’s life is all about keeping his family safe, but Rose is about to turn his life upside down. With Queen Ciar as a threat, Niall doesn’t dare let his guard down, but as sins of the past are revealed facing her may be their only chance.

The Magic Knot adds fresh ideas to an intriguing plot and transports readers to a magical world they’re sure to enjoy. Ms. Scott Taylor brings two strong, independent characters together with more than a simple spark of romance, and gives them something to fight for after a lifetime of disappointment and loneliness. I hope to see more on the shelves from this talented author soon.

To learn more about The Magic Knot, please visit Ms. Scott Taylor’s website: HERE

To read the first 2 chapters of The Magic Knot, please visit the author’s blog: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Film Premier - Ink

The independent film Ink, by Double Edge Films, will be premiering at the Santa Barbara Film Festival at the end of this month. If you're in the area stop by and see it! Here are the dates and times:

Ink 23 Jan (Fri) 10:15pm Metro 4 Theatre IV
Ink 29 Jan (Thu) 10:00pm Lobero Theatre
Ink 30 Jan (Fri) 10:15pm Metro 4 Theatre IV

Ink - Synopsis
As the light fades and the city goes to sleep, two forces emerge. They are invisible to us except for the power they exert over us in our sleep. These two groups battle for our souls through our dreams. One force supports our hopes and gives us strength through good dreams. The other force leads us toward desperation through our nightmares.

There are other forces in the world we don’t know. One of these is the brutal mercenary named Ink. Ink is on a mission for those who give the nightmares though he has his own unknown purposes.

Tonight as the city sleeps, the 8-year-old Emma awakens in the dream world. Before she can catch her breath, she is ripped from her sleeping body by Ink.

The fight is on for Emma’s life, as Ink pulls her through the many dimensions of the dreamworld. To save her, the dream-givers marshal all their resources. They focus in the real world on winning back the soul of Emma’s tragically broken father, trying to pull him out of his ever-increasing downward spiral.

The motion picture Ink is the allegorical story of good and evil and those trapped in between. No matter how safe you feel, evil may find you. But no matter how far you've fallen, redemption is possible.

Crew:
Writer/Director - Jamin Winans
Producer - Kiowa K. Winans
Director of Photography - Jeff Pointer

Cast:
Chris Kelly -as- John Sullivan
Quinn Hunchar -as- Emma Sullivan
Jessica Duffy -as- Liev
Jennifer Batter -as- Alliel
Jeremy Make -as- Jacob
Eme Ikwuakor -as- Gabe
Shelby Malone -as- Sarah


Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Evil Ways by Justin Gustainis

Evil Ways
Morris and Chastain Investigations, Book 2
Justin Gustainis
Solaris
December 30, 2008
ISBN# 978-1-84416-593-3

Book Blurb:
Supernatural investigator Quincey Morris and his partner Libby Chastain, investigate a series of murders where white witches are being hunted and killed - and Libby may be next on the list. From Iraq to America, a trail of clues is pointing to eccentric billionaire, Walter Grobius, a man fascinated with a devastating evil that can be traced back to biblical times. Morris and Chastain find themselves in their most epic case as they look to prevent the apocalypse from being released.

Evil Ways continues the electrifying new series of supernatural thrillers following the exploits of investigators Quincey Morris and Libby Chastain.

My thoughts:
Quincey Morris is about to find out that his recent investigation is tied to a much larger problem, and the evidence that was destroyed may have been a help in solving it. FBI agents Fenton and O’Donnell need Quincey’s help. Refusing is not an option.

Libby Chastain is in trouble of the deadly kind, because someone has sent their thugs to kill her. It’s soon apparent that white witches across the country are being targeted, and the trail leads in the same direction as the FBI’s case. The evil that’s growing has special plans, and Libby is at the top of its list.

This is the second installment in the Morris and Chastain Investigations series. Mr. Gustainis does a fabulous job of drawing the readers in with a solid storyline and likeable characters. Evil Ways has a fast pace, steady action, and a climax that’s worth every word read to reach it. The duo of Quincey and Libby has a chemistry that will keep fans eagerly awaiting their next investigative adventure.

To learn more about Evil Ways, please visit the website of Mr. Gustainis: HERE

You can read a recent Q & A with Mr. Gustainis: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts by Laura Benedict

Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts
Laura Benedict
Ballantine
December 30, 2008
ISBN# 978-0-345-49769-7

Book blurb:
Alice, Roxanne, and Del have been best friends since childhood-a childhood full of silly games, growing pains, and a hint of the kind of cruelty that only young girls know. Now, Alice's marriage is over, her husband having a child with another woman. Roxanne, an artist, is losing touch with everyone who cares for her-and perhaps with reality. And Del is soldiering through, but her friends see a dark cloud gathering in her eyes.

The instrument of their destruction is a single enigmatic man-Varick. Seemingly summoned from the air, the strikingly handsome Varick is a lonely woman's dream come true. But as Varick seduces the women in turn, their lives become unrecognizable to them. But where has he come from? And what does he want? His secret lies buried in their shared past. One simple, childish act has brought them, all these years later, to a place where not only their lives are at risk, but so are their souls. For once upon a time, the three friends agreed to tell a lie-one that ruined the life of a young priest. Defrocked, destitute, and ruined, he hoped with the whole of his shattered heart that he would get revenge. And in that hope he shook hands with the one who promised it. The devil himself. Varick. And now they all must live with the consequences. . . .

My thoughts:
The lives of Alice, Del and Roxanne are coming undone. Friends since school, these women have shared their ups and downs in life, as well as a few dark secrets. Now the things they did as young teens are coming back at them with a vengeance so strong that one by one their lives will be destroyed. A dark presence from the past pulls the strings, and once he’s begun nothing will stop him.

Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts is a dance with the devil that lands on the side of horror. From taboo elements to dark action in the storyline, Ms. Benedict blurs reality and keeps readers enthralled with deadly revenge until the surprising end. This book is not the paranormal romance you may mistake it for, and should appeal to readers who enjoy escaping with a bit of horror.

To learn more about Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts, please visit Ms. Benedict’s website: Here

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Review - Night Huntress by Yasmine Galenorn

Night Huntress
Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon, Book 5
Yasmine Galenorn
Berkley
January 6, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-425-22546-2

Book Blurb:
We're the D'Artigo sisters: sexy, savvy operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. But being half-human, half-Fae means our supernatural talents always go haywire at the wrong time. My sister Camille is a wicked good witch who attracts men like honey attracts flies. Menolly's a vampire who's still getting the hang of being undead. And me? I'm Delilah, a werecat who's been marked by the Autumn Lord as one of his Death Maidens. And wouldn't you know it, Karvanak--the demon general who stole the third Spirit Seal--is back. And this time, he's out for blood...

The Hags of Fate enjoy seeing me squirm. First, my boyfriend, Chase, mutters another woman's name in his sleep. Then I discover the Autumn Lord has a very special plan for me. But things go from bad to deadly when Karvanak--the Rāksasa--returns. In order to get his greedy hands on both the fourth Spirit Seal and his former associate, Vanzir, he kidnaps Chase. Now, we have to find a way to rescue the man I love without risking the safety of both Otherworld and Earth...

My thoughts:
Delilah D’Artigo has a lot on her mind, and more so after her lover Chase says another woman’s name at the worst possible time. As a werecat, and the only living subject tied to the Autumn Lord, she’s gained some new gifts she has yet to master.

Chase is kidnapped by Karvanak to ransom for a Spirit Seal and Vanzir, a demon who is now allied with the sisters. Delilah will learn to rely on her instincts and stand with her sisters and friends in their latest battle, and hope that their combined strengths will bring them all home alive.

This is the fifth book in the Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon series and centers on Delilah D’Artigo. Ms. Galenorn takes the meekest of her trio to a new level as the werecat discovers her strength and lets nothing stop her from reaching her goal. Love and betrayal play large roles in Night Huntress, and as the story unfolds the action will sweep fans along for this fast-moving ride. While each sexy story in the Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon series is focused on one of the sisters, it’s best read from the beginning.

To learn more about Night Huntress, please visit Ms. Galenorn’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Grasping for the Wind (The LinkUp Meme Song)

If you haven't already had a listen, you really should stop by the Sci Fi Songs blog and see what John Anealio has done. :)

You'll find Grasping for the Wind (The LinkUp Meme Song) on the Sci Fi Songs Blog: HERE

How awesome is that?

You can see the Book Reviewers LinkUp Meme by visiting the Grasping for the Wind website: HERE

See the Crochety Old Fan blog reviews of review blogs/sites: HERE

Review - Veil of Midnight by Lara Adrian

Veil of Midnight
The Midnight Breed, Book 5
Lara Adrian
Dell
December 30, 2008
ISBN# 978-0-440-24449-3

Book Blurb:
Bound by blood, addicted to danger, they'll enter the darkest—and most erotic—place of all.

A warrior trained in bullets and blades, Renata cannot be bested by any man—vampire or mortal. But her most powerful weapon is her extraordinary psychic ability—a gift both rare and deadly. Now a stranger threatens her hard-won independence—a golden-haired vampire who lures her into a realm of darkness…and pleasure beyond imagining.

A combat-loving adrenaline junkie, Nikolai dispenses his own justice to enemies of the Breed—and his latest quarry is a ruthless assassin. One woman stands in his way: the seductive, cool-as-ice bodyguard, Renata. But Renata’s powers are put to the test when a loved one, a child, is threatened and she’s forced to turn to Niko for help. As the two join forces, as desire fans the flames of a deeper hunger, Renata’s life is under siege by a man who offers the exquisite pleasure of a blood bond—and a passion that could save or doom them both forever.…

My thoughts:
Renata is a Breedmate working for Sergei Yakut, a Gen One vampire who makes his own rules. In addition to her psychic ability that can render even the mightiest of warriors defenseless, Renata has combat skills that were hard earned on the streets. Now she finds that she has more to protect than herself, a young girl with an amazing psychic ability that the wrong men with power are willing to pay to possess.

Nikolai is a warrior for the Order, and is searching for Yakut when he first meets Renata. He hopes to gain Yakut’s cooperation in discovering who is killing off the Gen One vampires, but it’s clear from the beginning that Niko’s presence is far from welcome.

When Niko finds himself in a dire situation, it’s Renata he’s forced to rely on. In turn they must trust each other in order to save young Mira and to ensure that each of them survives.

This is the fifth installment in the Midnight Breed series and tells the story of Niko and Renata. Ms. Adrian shares a tale that clearly defines the good and bad in her world of vampires. Veil of Midnight is a well-told addition to the series, and mixes the introduction of new characters with continued contact with those whom readers have previously become familiar with. The suspense and mystery are well-paced, and a new romance adds just the right chemistry to keep fans coming back for more of the same from this engaging storyline.

To learn more about Veil of Midnight, please visit Ms. Adrian’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Happy New Year