Monday, June 30, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The City

When he was a senior in college, Dean Koontz won an Atlantic Monthly fiction competition and has been writing ever since. His books are published in 38 languages and he has sold over 450 million copies to date.

Fourteen of his novels have risen to number one on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list (One Door Away From Heaven, From the Corner of His Eye, Midnight, Cold Fire, The Bad Place, Hideaway, Dragon Tears, Intensity, Sole Survivor,The Husband, Odd Hours, Relentless, What the Night Knows, and 77 Shadow Street), making him one of only a dozen writers ever to have achieved that milestone. Sixteen of his books have risen to the number one position in paperback. His books have also been major bestsellers in countries as diverse as Japan and Sweden.

The New York Times has called his writing “psychologically complex, masterly and satisfying.” The New Orleans Times-Picayune said Koontz is, “at times lyrical without ever being naive or romantic. [He creates] a grotesque world, much like that of Flannery O’Conner or Walker Percy … scary, worthwhile reading.” Rolling Stone has hailed him as “America’s most popular suspense novelist.”

Dean Koontz was born and raised in Pennsylvania. He graduated from Shippensburg State College (now Shippensburg University), and his first job after graduation was with the Appalachian Poverty Program, where he was expected to counsel and tutor underprivileged children on a one-to-one basis. His first day on the job, he discovered that the previous occupier of his position had been beaten up by the very kids he had been trying to help and had landed in the hospital for several weeks. The following year was filled with challenge but also tension, and Koontz was more highly motivated than ever to build a career as a writer. He wrote nights and weekends, which he continued to do after leaving the poverty program and going to work as an English teacher in a suburban school district outside Harrisburg. After a year and a half in that position, his wife, Gerda, made him an offer he couldn’t refuse: “I’ll support you for five years,” she said, “and if you can’t make it as a writer in that time, you’ll never make it.” By the end of those five years, Gerda had quit her job to run the business end of her husband’s writing career.

Dean Koontz lives in Southern California with his wife, Gerda, their golden retriever, Anna, and the enduring spirit of their golden, Trixie.

Keep up with Dean online at his Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.



The City

Buy from Amazon / B&N / BAM

#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz is at the peak of his acclaimed powers with this major new novel.

The city changed my life and showed me that the world is deeply mysterious. I need to tell you about her and some terrible things and wonderful things and amazing things that happened . . . and how I am still haunted by them. Including one night when I died and woke and lived again.

Here is the riveting, soul-stirring story of Jonah Kirk, son of an exceptional singer, grandson of a formidable “piano man,” a musical prodigy beginning to explore his own gifts when he crosses a group of extremely dangerous people, with shattering consequences. Set in a more innocent time not so long ago, The City encompasses a lifetime but unfolds over three extraordinary, heart-racing years of tribulation and triumph, in which Jonah first grasps the electrifying power of music and art, of enduring friendship, of everyday heroes.

The unforgettable saga of a young man coming of age within a remarkable family, and a shimmering portrait of the world that shaped him, The City is a novel that speaks to everyone, a dazzling realization of the evergreen dreams we all share. Brilliantly illumined by magic dark and light, it’s a place where enchantment and malice entwine, courage and honor are found in the most unexpected quarters, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.


Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION'S Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I am a diehard Dean Koontz fan. Outside of Poe, I would read anything Dean writes - and have - and while The City was definitely not my favorite Koontz, I still felt it deep, riveting & powerful all the same... Would I have given it a 3-3.5 for a new-to-me author, maybe, but the beautiful writing style was enough to earn that extra 1/2 skull for me personally.

I actually started out this new journey by reading The Neighbor, the prequel novella to The City, and I absolutely loved it. After completion of that, I was chomping at the bit to get to The City. When I started, I was immediately reminded why I love Koontz. Everything he writes is so different, but it all has this magical lyrical quality that draws me in. The City was no different in that regard, but it was a much slower paced novel for Koontz. There were no big crashing moments, no huge surprises, but to me it still felt powerful.

Told from the POV of the character Jonah Kirk as a narrative of his youth, it is said up front that the story wouldn't necessarily be entirely cohesive. In order to properly portray the 'tale' as Jonah saw it, he had to skip around. That statement was true, but I still found it compelling the way it was told. I can see some readers not liking that, however, and I think it did add to the slightly lagging pace, but I was still compelled to continue on.

As usual, Koontz's protagonists are willful and painted with broad strokes. They're well rounded and just special enough to make things interesting. What I sort of missed with The City was Koontz's despicable, deplorable, and utterly hate-worthy big bads. In this case it was Jonah's weak-willed dad, a semi-crazy yet utterly enchanting girl, an X-Files loving building super, and a professor, and while it was interesting how they all ended up playing into one another's schemes, it just wasn't the usual gasp-worthy antagonists I've grown to know and love from Koontz.

Bottom line, I enjoyed it. As a Koontz fan I'm glad I read it, and there were things that were utterly beautiful about it. Is it a Koontz like some of the others that I would read 2, 3+ times, no. Would I recommend it to first time Koontz readers, probably not. Do I think that there will be a subset of readers who will absolutely adore this book, yes. It's not one of his fast paced, adrenaline pumped, nail-biter thrill rides, but it was, as I said, a lyrical, deep, and riveting read.


The City

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Loving the Omega



Carrie Ann Ryan is a bestselling paranormal and contemporary romance author. After spending too much time behind a lab bench, she decided to dive into the romance world and find her werewolf mate – even if it’s just in her books. Happy endings are always near – even if you have to get over the challenges of falling in love first.

Carrie Ann’s Redwood Pack series is a bestselling series that has made the shifter world even more real to her and has allowed the Dante’s Circle and Holiday, Montana series to be born. She’s also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She loves meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Feel free to stalk Carrie Ann at the following places online –
Facebook, Twitter, Website, Blog, Goodreads, Amazon Author Page and Pinterest.


Loving the Omega
REDWOOD PACK Book #7.5

RELEASE DATE 7/15/14!

Maddox Jamenson almost lost his mate before he knew she existed, but his life is now exactly how he’d dreamed it. The war with the Centrals is over, and his family is healing one day at a time. Ellie is reveling in the simple perfection that is her life and family now, but that doesn’t mean she can shed the self-doubts and concerns that come with being a new mother, mate, and Redwood.
When a disturbance in their quiet life threatens to ruin everything they’ve fought for, Maddox and Ellie will have to learn not only to rely on each other more than ever, but find within themselves the power to forgive.

Author’s Note: This is a novella set after book 7 to give you a taste of Maddox and Ellie. It is best that you have already immersed yourselves in the Redwood Pack world, however even new readers will enjoy a glimpse of one of the Redwood’s favorite couples.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Bewitching Bella - Charity:
*Copy Gifted in exchange for an honest review

This Novella was way too short and I wanted so much more but as a long time Redwood fan how could I not want more, but it did what it was suppose to, give us a taste of Maddox and Ellie and lead us into what Carrie Ann has planned for this world.

Maddox and Ellie have settled into a routine and are finding their peace after the war with the Centrals has finally ended, but their self doubt is still crippling. I love how we get a look into one of my favorite couples and how they are coping and it hurt to see that they weren't doing as well as I had hoped but after reading further, I understood why.

When the one thing keeping them going gets "taken", their world is on the edge of shattering all over again. BUT WAIT.....things are not always as they seem!

Carrie Ann has big plans for the world she has created within the Redwood Series and Loving the Omega just helps to open up her readers and give us a taste of the possibilities of where it can be taken.

I give Loving the Omega 4 out of 5 Stars and strongly suggest that readers immerse themselves within the Redwood Series from the beginning.

Loving the Omega






[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Fighting Fate



Carrie Ann Ryan is a bestselling paranormal and contemporary romance author. After spending too much time behind a lab bench, she decided to dive into the romance world and find her werewolf mate – even if it’s just in her books. Happy endings are always near – even if you have to get over the challenges of falling in love first.

Carrie Ann’s Redwood Pack series is a bestselling series that has made the shifter world even more real to her and has allowed the Dante’s Circle and Holiday, Montana series to be born. She’s also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She loves meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Feel free to stalk Carrie Ann at the following places online –
Facebook, Twitter, Website, Blog, Goodreads, Amazon Author Page and Pinterest.


Fighting Fate
REDWOOD PACK Book #7

Buy from Amazon / B&N / ARe / Kobo / iTunes

With her blue-black hair and striking green eyes, Cailin Jamenson is the epitome of beauty and the exemplar of strength. She has fought the enforced boundaries of being the lone Jamenson daughter and Redwood Pack princess, but it is the potential future with the dark wolf in her path that threatens everything she thought she desired.
Logan Anderson’s own darkness provided the reasoning for his abandonment of his former Pack, the Talons. Now, newly accepted into the Redwood Pack, this jade-eyed wolf and all she represents could be his own undoing.
In this final installment of the Redwood Pack, unimaginable tragedy strikes, and the two wolves who have fought the longest for their independence now face the uncertainty of fate and the epic battle that could end the war… and their lives.


Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Bewitching Bella - Charity:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

How am I supposed to write this review, it’s like saying goodbye all over again to my beloved Redwoods, the first time being when I actually read Fighting Fate. So with tissues ready I will do my best to give this review my all.

Cailin was an ever present character throughout every novel and novella in this series. Always there fighting alongside each of her brothers with a fierce passion for her family and her pack. Never knowing where her duties lay within the pack, she has no real “gifts” like her brothers; she not only fights for a place to fit in but for her freedom from fate.

Logan has finally found a home, not one that he wants but one that makes his sister and nephew happy and that’s all he has ever wanted until he laid eyes on the Redwood Princess. Now with a renewed passion for life he is willing to lay his own down to save his new pack.

Sadly, I knew that there was going to be a devastating twist to this story with the end of this series coming near, I was prepared for it. It was needed in order for the Jamenson’s to fight till the death but even with knowing it was coming I was shaking with dread as I read word after word that broke my heart.

Each book in this series lead us closer and closer to the end and each Jamenson was instrumental in the end of the “big bad” but it’s Cailin and Logan who fulfill the prophecy and deliver the final blow and as always they did it in Jamenson fashion. With passion and love they face death and fate alongside their Pack. And I for one could not be happier with the ending.

Again I thought I was prepared for this book but I was nowhere near ready for it all to end but it did and through my tears, I couldn't help but finally breathe a sigh of relief that even though my beloved Redwoods were all done telling their stories, they could finally live in a peace they hadn't known for many years. And that made it all worth it.

To my beloved Carrie Ann, this may be the end (for now) of the family that rocketed your career but you have to know that as a reader I am so happy that throughout this series I was able to see you grow as a writer and you did so with beauty and grace. Thank you for sharing your Redwoods with us and allowing me to be a part of each and every book.

Fighting Fate

Sunday, June 22, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Past My Defenses



At home in the Pacific Northwest, Wendy Sparrow writes for both an adult and young adult crowd in many genres but always with a happily ever after. She has two wonderfully quirky kids, a supportive husband, and a perpetually messy house because she hates cleaning. She’s an advocate both online and in her community for autistic children in addition to actively trying to raise awareness about obsessive compulsive disorder. Most days she spends on Twitter procrastinating doing the dishes.

Keep up with Wendy online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.


Past My Defenses
TAMING THE PACK Book #1

RELEASE DATE 6/23/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Vanessa is the fastest Lycan around. In wolf form, the only threat she can’t outrun is her allergies. After a feline dander-bomb takes her down, she wakes up naked in a cage staring at a hot park ranger who had no idea what he’d trapped. But ooooh, he smells so good. Mine.

Dane hoped to tame the silver wolf in his kennel, but all bets are off with the deliciously sweet Vanessa on two legs. Her temper makes his pulse race, and he can’t escape the feeling they belong together.

They’re hot as a forest fire even before they scent-match, but Glacier Peak’s Alpha considers Dane a danger to the pack. Meanwhile, Lycans are being poached, and Vanessa has been targeted. Dane will have to keep her close to protect her, but with Vanessa in heat and mad to mate, who will protect him?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:

*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

--Actual rating 3.5 Skulls

Past My Defenses, the first book in the TAMING THE PACK series by Wendy Sparrow was a cute read, and it had a GREAT surprise towards the end with the whodunit, but I didn't love the heroine. I spent too much time wanting to smack her and rolling my eyes and that took away from the overall enjoyment of the book for me personally. There are going to be readers who adore her though, she's quirky, utterly 'human' in her flaws, and makes her man work to win her...

I really loved Dane though. He is one of those instantly trusting and accepting heroes and has a protective streak a mile wide. Wendy also does a great job of making him just alpha enough while reminding the reader that he's just human, he's not this uber powerful werewolf like the other guys of the tale. When he's thrown into a world he didn't even know existed and confronted with a woman who both infuriates and fascinates him, it's incredibly entertaining to get inside his head.

The overall storyline was decently paced. There were some areas where I felt myself losing interest, but those were primarily the spots where I wasn't feeling Vanessa, but as soon as the gears shifted I found myself sucked back in and loving the surprises that Wendy spun into the plot. I also loved the tension and interaction between the supporting characters of the entire book. I instantly found myself wanting more of several, and I can only hope that as the series continues we'll get their individual tales.

Bottom line: Past My Defenses was a quirkily, different, fun, and surprising paranormal romance, and as mentioned, while I didn't connect with the leading lady, there will be readers who will absolutely love her. Plus, why wouldn't you want to check out a book that started out as a joke on Twitter!? Such a great birth of an idea. :)

Past My Defenses

 

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Dream Huntress



Michelle Sharp is a romantic suspense author from the Midwest. Although she has a degree in journalism from Southern Illinois University, she finds weaving tales of danger, deception, and love much preferable to reporting the cold, hard facts. Her goal in life? To team resilient, kick-ass heroines with the sexy alpha's who love them. As most writers probably are, she is an avid reader. Her husband and kids would call it obsessive—but whatever. Her first choice is usually a story with a thrilling combination of danger and love, but any book with a great voice and intriguing story will keep her turning pages well past any reasonable bed-time.

Her debut novel will be published with Entangled Ignite in June of 2014. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and Missouri Romance Writers.

Keep up with Michelle at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.


Dream Huntress
DREAM SEEKER Book #1

RELEASE DATE 6/23/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Detective Jordan Delany has a gift. Through her dreams, she connects with dead victims of violent crimes. Her isolated life as a drug cop is perfect for hiding the freakish visions, until her newest investigation has her posing as a cocktail waitress in a down-and-dirty strip club. When
she’s saved from a drunken customer by a handsome stranger, the heated chemistry is exactly why she intends to keep Mr. Arrogant at bay. But learning he’s the new bouncer for the corrupt club she intends to bust just might be the one reason why she can’t.

Tyler McGee suspects a drug ring operating out of the local club is flooding the streets of his hometown with heroin. Determined to get answers, he plays the part of a fallen cop and lands the job of head bouncer. What he discovers is that the club owner isn’t the only deadly obstacle he’s facing. His attraction to an intriguing cocktail waitress with a penchant for danger just might kill him first.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

Dream Huntress is the first in a new series by Michelle Sharp and it kept me riveted every step of the way. With tons of action, plenty of suspense, danger, drama, twists, turns, just enough romance, and even a touch of paranormal goodness, it had everything I was looking for in a book to get me out of the reading funk I was in.

Jordan and Tyler meet under interesting circumstances. Both working separate sides of a narcotics case unbeknownst to each other, they enter into their introduction steeped in lies. After Ty rescues Jordan from an incident at her new place of employment, they realize instantly that they have chemistry that can't be denied, but unfortunately, their relationship could prove dangerous, in more ways than one. Their interaction was fast and furious, and weirdly, despite the rapid pace with which it progressed, it somehow still felt natural to me (one of my huge pet peeves at times with paranormal romance and some romantic suspense is how unnaturally quick the couples fall into bed and love). Maybe it had to do with the edge of the seat drama and action that went along with everything they went through!? Who knows. Regardless, I felt that these two were meant for one another despite the craziness, and I enjoyed every step of their growing attraction!

Dream Huntress is a Romantic Suspense, but as mentioned, there is a hint of a paranormal storyline. It's only hinted at, however, and only serves to make 'how' Jordan does things slightly more credible and reinforce the reasons for her and Ty being brought together. I actually would have enjoyed more details about her gift - it definitely wasn't the primary focus of the plot and only popped up randomly - but it was still very enjoyable and I think it added something a little extra to an already fabulous story and (I'm hoping) will be expanded upon and used in more detail in future installments of the series.

Bottom line: Dream Huntress was a thrilling, action packed and engaging read that I absolutely didn't want to put down. It pulled me out of a pretty bad reading funk, and in times like that, for me - a steadfast bibliophile - that's not always easy to do. It was both comfortable AND unique, and I would honestly recommend it to just about any type of reader. I have a tendency to read more UF and Horror followed by PNR and then RS and then Contemp, etc, but this book was surprising and utterly entertaining from beginning to end. It was a really, really good romantic suspense with a super engaging plot, lots of action, great characters, and an ending that will leave you a little speechless. :)


Dream Huntress

Saturday, June 21, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Dangerous Seduction


Zoë Archer has always loved stories of adventure, but she didn’t love how most of the women depicted in these stories had a nasty habit of screaming, fainting, being kidnapped by the bad guys, pulling the wrong lever, falling overboard, and generally being pains in the butt. So when it came time for Zoë to write her stories of adventure and romance, she wanted to make sure that her heroines were just as kick-ass and capable as the heroes, and that the heroes loved them for it—which is exactly what she writes. From historical paranormal adventure, to steampunk, to sci-fi, to historical romance, Zoë writes confident heroines and sexy heroes in waistcoats and tall boots.

For her novel REBEL, she received a RITA Award nomination for Best Paranormal Romance. Her historical romance LADY X’S COWBOY won the Book Buyers Best Award for Best Historical & Regency Romance. SCOUNDREL also received a starred review and Pick of the Week from Publisher’s Weekly.

Zoë earned her MFA in Fiction from the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop, but she’s lived almost her entire life in California. She and her husband, fellow romance author Nico Rosso, currently live in Los Angeles. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys baking, spending too much time on the Internet, and attempting to amass the world’s largest boot collection.


Keep up with Zoe on her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.


Dangerous Seduction
NEMESIS UNLIMITED Book #2


Buy from Amazon / B&N

In Zoë Archer's Dangerous Seduction, Alyce Carr has no time for the strange man in her little Cornwall village, no matter how breathtakingly handsome he is. Life in Trewyn doesn't allow for much fun—the managers of the copper mine barely provide the miners and their families with enough food. Outsiders are suspect and flirts are unimaginable, but Simon Sharpe is as keen as his name…and Alyce can't ignore him for long.

As the founder of Nemesis, Unlimited, Simon Addison-Shawe is well accustomed to disguise and deceit. Yet he's not prepared for Alyce's dogged defense of her people and the injustices the copper mine has dealt them. With Alyce's help he can change the fate of an entire town, and convincing her to join him is only part of the thrill. Together, they ignite a desire in each other much too powerful to deny. But at what cost?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I actually missed reading book #1 of the NEMESIS UNLIMITED series, but Dangerous Seduction stands well on its own and was an utterly engaging read.

I've been a fan of Zoe Archer's for some time. She has a knack for pulling out uniqueness in a genre that blew up in no time flat and left little room for new ideas. Her world building is always solid and captivating and her characters are strong, engaging, and relatable. From her spunky, independent, strong heroines to her handsome alpha males with their soft sides, and the big bads you love to hate, she has something for everyone. :)

Dangerous Seduction's plot was rife with historical and political intrigue and sucked me in from the very first page. Battling against the injustices being perpetrated by the upper crust against the workers of the Cornwall copper mine, Simon - one of the founding members of Nemesis, Unlimited) goes undercover to right the wrong. While he's there, he meets the strong, capable, and spirited Alyce Carr, a bal-maiden who, despite her sex and station, is not afraid to speak out against the injustice either.

Joining forces to uncover the truth, Simon and Alyce bridge the gap between their classes and learn everything they can about the other while discovering an undeniable attraction between them and fighting to overcome what seems to be some insurmountable hurdles along the way. Their interactions were dynamic and full of life and utterly enjoyable to read.

Dangerous Seduction was a delightfully unique, beautifully written, and utterly exciting tale and I can't wait to read more in the NEMESIS, UNLIMITED world. Most definitely recommended for historical fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance lovers.

Dangerous Seduction

Monday, June 16, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Omega Days



John L. Campbell is the author of the zombie apocalypse series, OMEGA DAYS from Penguin Random House. Book One, "Omega Days," was an overnight Amazon Horror bestseller, and remained on the list for 17 weeks. In addition, he is the author of two collections of short horror stories, RED CIRCUS and IN THE FALLING LIGHT, and a novella based upon actual events, THE MANGROVES, which chronicles the most horrific crocodile massacre in recorded history. His short fiction has appeared in numerous anthologies, literary magazines and ezines.

John has lived all over the U.S., and has worked as everything from a limo driver to professional investigator and executive. He currently resides with his family in New York, where he is hard at work on the next novel in his Omega Days series.

Campbell is an Active Member of the HWA; Horror Writer's Association, and is represented by the Jennifer DeChiara Literary Agency in New York.

Coming soon, SHIP OF THE DEAD. Prepare to be boarded...

Keep up with John online:  Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads


Omega Days
OMEGA DAYS Book #1

Buy from Amazon / B&N / BAM


When the end came, it came quickly. No one knew where or exactly when the Omega Virus started, but soon it was everywhere. And when the ones spreading it can’t die, no one stands a chance of surviving.

San Francisco, California. Father Xavier Church has spent his life ministering to unfortunate souls, but he has never witnessed horror like this. After he forsakes his vows in the most heartrending of ways, he watches helplessly as a zombie nun takes a bite out of a fellow priest’s face…

University of California, Berkeley. Skye Dennison is moving into her college dorm for the first time, simultaneously excited to be leaving the nest and terrified to be on her own. When her mother and father are eaten alive in front of her, she realizes the terror has just begun…

Alameda, California. Angie West made millions off her family’s reality gun show on the History Channel. But after she is cornered by the swarming undead, her knowledge of heavy artillery is called into play like never before…

Within weeks, the world is overrun by the walking dead. Only the quick and the smart, the strong and the determined, will survive—for now.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

Omega Days is the first novel of the OMEGA DAYS series by John L. Cambell and it was a thoroughly enjoyable read!

Very much like The Walking Dead on paper, it follows the tale of several groups in the wake of the Omega Virus outbreak & the utter & complete Zombiepocalypse that ensues.

It was well written, and while I noticed that several reviewers didn't enjoy the different groups chronicled throughout, it felt real to me. If an outbreak is pandemic, it's unrealistic to follow just a single group. And as they merged, in unexpected ways, it was interesting to follow.

Speaking of the characters, they had depth and were relatable, and I really liked that there wasn't a set stereotype throughout. The main threads were all diverse and allowed for the introduction of plenty of human psyche drama throughout, not just the obvious underlying tale of trying to survive. I could see each and every scenario happening in real life should something of this magnitude ever come to pass.

This is one of those books - like a good, cheesy, classic horror movie - that will have you yelling at the characters out loud "don't do it" and using OMG like a mantra. :)

And while I loved the book, I loathed the ending; though thankfully, I saw that there's a second book (Ship of the Dead) coming in October.

Bottom line, if you like your zombie fiction, gritty, dirty, and chock full of not only zombie action but the utter horrors of human nature, this is a good book for you.

Omega Days

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of There All Along


Lauren Dane’s story goes like this: While on pregnancy bed rest, Lauren Dane had plenty of down time so her husband took her comments about “giving that writing thing a serious go” to heart and brought home a secondhand laptop. She wrote her first book on it before it gave up the ghost. Even better, she sold that book and never looked back.

Today Lauren is a New York Times bestselling author of over forty novels and novellas across several genres. Though she no longer has to deal with Polly Pocket and getting those tiny outfits on and off, she still has trouble blocking out the sound of iCarly so she can write a love scene.

Lauren has a very impressive and extensive book list which can be found here:http://www.laurendane.com/books/.

To find out more about Lauren and keep up with all those amazing books she has, you can find her at the following sites: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads


Megan Hart: I was born and then I lived a while and I did some stuff. Then I did some things and whatnot. Now, I mostly write books. You can find out more about me at my website, www.meganhart.com, my blog: www.readinbed.net, follow me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/megan_hart or friend me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/megan.hart.


There All Along

Buy from Amazon / B&N

"Land's End" by Lauren Dane: The Land's End highway is one of the most dangerous places in the universe. The constant peril of brigands keeps Verity Coleman stuck in Silver Cliffs, dreaming of the open road—and of Loyal Alsbaugh, the tall and silent highway patrolman. When her town is attacked, Verity has a chance to win over Loyal's muted heart. But will his wounded past make him leave her along the road, or can she convince him to take her along?

"By the Sea of Sand" by Megan Hart: Captain Kason Reed was willing to give his life to the Sheirran Defense Forces, but now he can't remember anything but bits and pieces of the war. When his sexual attraction to his caregiver, Teila, causes him to make advances toward her, she becomes the aggressor, urging him with her body to explore the memories of his past—memories that all seem to draw him back to Teila . . .

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

There All Along is two novellas by Lauren Dane & Megan Hart. Lauren Dane’s offering titled Land’s End is the story of Loyal, a lawman and Verity, a widow who runs the settlement’s mercantile. The setting is in a world where rapists and murderers run rampant in the areas surrounding various outposts. The only way that supplies and mail can get from place to place is by armed escort. Loyal is constantly on the move with shipment deliveries, but he is always drawn back to Verity. Verity dreams of seeing other places, experiencing new things. The chemistry between these two is strong, but Loyal doesn’t think he is a good enough man for Verity. But she thinks he is wrong. This is a sweet love story with hot sexual steam.

By The Sea Of Sand, written by Megan Hart is set in a harsh world where survival is a hard fought battle. Kason Reed is taken prisoner by off world enemies, tortured and experimented on. When he finally returns home, he is put under the care of Teila. Teila, the light keeper at the edge of the sea of sand, tries to help Kason regain his memory while having to keep a secret from him. A secret that could destroy him. By The Sea Of Sand is a fast paced love story that had me instantly hooked. The heat factor was very high throughout.


There All Along

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Drowning in Fire



HANNA MARTINE: I've loved stories—particularly the romantic kind—since I was very young. I think most writers will say, when asked why they write, that they can't not write. I've known this about myself since grade school, when I wrote my first "book" on my mom's Smith-Corona typewriter. It was a Fantasy Island/Toddler & Tiaras mash-up featuring mermaids and a beauty pageant character named Stevie Nicks.

After college I spent a decade working in an office, always knowing that the only thing that would truly make me happy was writing professionally. So that's what I do now ... and I'm happy.

I have a serious weakness when it comes to fine wine and hoppy beer. I prefer cooking over baking. I love to travel, and have been very lucky to have visited many wonderful places around the world. I even got married in a haunted castle in Scotland. Though I've always considered Chicago home, if I had the chance to move to Australia I'd do it in a heartbeat.

Connect with Hanna:
Website / Facebook /Twitter / Goodreads


Drowning in Fire
THE ELEMENTALS Book #3

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Hidden in the Hawaiian islands, there is magic pure enough to heal a broken heart…

In his last audience with the Senatus, Griffin hoped to establish a connection between his water-wielding race and the other elementals. Instead, he found himself drawn into a forbidden affair with the Chimeran general Keko. When it ended in a storm of fire and ice, Griffin was banned from the Senatus and Keko was stripped of her status.

Just as Griffin is given a second chance to prove himself worthy of a Senatus seat, he gets a call from Keko. Despite how it ended between them, she wants to hear his voice one last time before embarking on a suicide mission to save her people and redeem her name.

Despite her good intentions, members of the Senatus want her stopped—and Griffin volunteers to go after her. As he tracks his former lover through the untamed Hawaiian wilderness, she leads him straight to the source of all fire magic. But will the intense power they discover draw them back together or destroy them both?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

Drowning In fire is the 3rd book in Hanna Martine’s The Elementals series. Set in the lush islands of Hawaii, Drowning In Fire is the story of two elementals, Griffin, of the water welders and Keko, of the fire welders. When these two embark on a taboo affair, both are stripped of everything. Griffin is denied a seat with the Senatus, the elemental council. And Keko loses her rank of general of her people. In order to get back her honor, Keko sets out on a dangerous mission. A mission that others want stopped. Griffin is offered another chance for a place within the Senatus if he can stop her.

Drowning In Fire moves along slowly at times and I wanted to kick Keko in the butt sometimes. The girl has issues. Griffin was was the glue for this book. Overall, this was a good read and I really enjoyed the world building and banter.

Drowning in Fire

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Bound to Danger


Katie Reus fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After graduating summa cum laude with a degree in psychology and working too many jobs she hated, she finally figured things out.

She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. Her publishers include Carina Press, Harlequin Nocturne, Ellora’s Cave and NAL/Signet Eclipse (Penguin). Regardless of genre, she always includes a happy ending. When she’s not creating stories she loves spending time with her husband and family.

Connect with Katie:
Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon Page


Bound to Danger
DEADLY OPS Book #2

RELEASE DATE 8/5/14!


At a benefit dinner, community activist Maria Cervantes overhears two men plotting a terrorist attack that could rock Miami to its core. But before she can alert authorities, she’s almost killed in a massive explosion—and wakes up in a hospital with no memory of what happened. As the sole survivor of the attack, she is now a person of interest to the NSA—and especially to Agent Cade O’Reilly. Because Maria is the one woman Cade has never been able to forget.

Years ago, they were closer than either was willing to admit—until Cade disappeared when Maria needed him most. Now he’s sticking by her, whether she likes it or not. Because the memories locked inside her mind could hold vital clues to the next attack. Because terrorists want her dead—and because he never wants to let her go again.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

This is the second book in Ms Reus' series called Deadly Ops, and is set to be yet another fast paced and action packed book. This series features all American alpha heros who work in the military and for the government protecting their country and it's citizens. Each book works very well as a standalone but characters from previous stories do reappear so it's fun to catch up with all these delicious specimens of manhood . When you pick up a Deadly Ops book you are guaranteed adventure with a capital A ! Not to mention romance to get your heart racing!

Maria is at a party when she overhears terrorists plotting to bomb Miami but before she can make sense of what she's heard an explosion rocks the residence and Maria wakes up in hospital with memory loss! She has survived but so many others were not as lucky and the tragedy puts Maria in even more danger . The men who set the explosion realise she knows too much to be allowed to live and are determined to find her. The NSA have to protect Maria but the agent assigned to the task is one who Maria knows only too well!

Eight years ago Cade dropped out of Maria's life and she's never quite understood why. Cade had been a friend to her deceased brother but to Maria he was something more or so she thought. Now he's back in her life and there's still unresolved issues between them but Cade seems determined to keep Maria at a distance. As Maria struggles to come to terms with the aftermath of the explosion she's desperate to remember all that she heard but time is running out. The terrorist organisation have a long reach and there's a traitor close to home who puts Maria in the firing line!

I do enjoy this authors work and if you are a fan of romantic suspense then this new series is bound to please. As usual Ms Reus gives us a hero to drool over as Cade is just so protective and yummy! The complicated past that the couple share is told in a very interesting way as we are treated to snippets of emails that they exchanged before the death of Maria's brother which is very inciteful and adds depth to the characters history. In some ways it's a story of star crossed lovers as events have kept them apart but sometimes things are just meant to be. In romance timing is everything and it's certainly time for Cade to realise that Maria feels like home to him! As for Maria well she's so much stronger than she realises and a very loyal and brave heroine. Whilst she may not be the most kick ass female in fiction she's no cry baby either and I liked that we see both her vulnerabilities and also her strengths.

This is an action packed story, a roller coaster of emotion . If you enjoy a plot that leaves you breathless then prepare to buckle up as it's going to be a bumpy ride! There's so much happening in this book with villains who need to be stopped and yet the author even brings them to life as their motives are explained which stops them being one dimensional. I think to do that takes real talent as so often bad guys in books can just be caricatures but not here. Ms Reus has written a great story filled with romance and her signature heat! Her leading men are always on my wish list and Cade can be my lethal protector anytime!

Bound to Danger

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Hillbilly Rockstar


Lorelei James is the New York Times and USA TodayBestselling Author of contemporary erotic western romances set in the modern day Wild West and also contemporary erotic romances. Lorelei's books have been nominated for and won the Romantic Times Reviewer's choice Award, as well as the CAPA Award. Lorelei lives in western South Dakota with her family...and a whole closet full of cow girl boots.

Why do I have a particular fondness for all things western? Well, I'm a fourth generation South Dakotan, living in the Black Hills, which is chock-full of interesting characters, including cowboys, Indians, ranchers, and bikers. The geographical diversity of the surrounding area showcases mountains, plains, and badlands. Living in and writing about rural settings gives me a unique perspective, especially since I'm not writing historical westerns. Through my fictional world, I can show the ideals and the cowboy way of life are still very much alive.

Keep up with Lorelei at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.


Hillbilly Rockstar
BLACKTOP COWBOYS Book #6

RELEASE DATE 8/5/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N / Google Play / iTunes

She’s protecting his body and guarding her heart....
 
Country music star Devin McClain understands there’s a downside to life in the public eye, but the laidback Wyoming cowboy has never imagined he’d attract crazed fans who would do anything to garner his attention. When veiled threats become real, he agrees to hire a discreet security detail. But Devin is shocked when that bodyguard is a hard-bodied woman. He’s even more stunned to be attracted to the steely-eyed stunner.

Former soldier Liberty Masterson’s return to civilian life has been wrought with challenges until she lands a job with a prestigious security firm. But when she agrees to provide personal protection during a cross-country tour, she doesn’t realize she has signed up to masquerade as the playboy star’s girlfriend. Though she’s more comfortable in combat boots than high heels, she has no choice but to appear to be the sexy groupie Devin prefers.

Living in close quarters causes the chemistry between them to ignite, and Devin realizes he wants to turn their charade of a romance into reality. Although Liberty surrenders to his every whim behind closed doors, she fears the sexy country star doesn’t see the real her; and Devin can’t help but worry when the tour ends that there might not be enough between them to build something that won’t fade away....
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

This review is for book six in the Blacktop Cowboys series. This series of books feature various friends from Wyoming who each are making a life for themselves but along the way may need just a little help. These rough tough cowboys are hot and sexy and always guaranteed to give readers a wild ride!

Devin McClain has finally hit the big time and this country boy is truly riding the wave of success but success always has a price! Devin has always had to contend with fanatical followers and his life is never truly private but when one of his crew gets hurt it's time to beef up the security. Devins not keen on having a bodyguard twenty four seven but when both his agent and record label insist he reluctantly agrees. What he hadn't expected though was for a ballsy ex soldier with more curves than a Porsche to be his new round the clock minder! Thrust together on his tour bus Devins finally met his match.

Liberty Masterson is a former soldier working in the security business. Being offered the job of four months on the road with one of the hottest tickets in country music should be straight forward but with Devin nothing's as it seems. First Liberty has to look the part and then she has to pretend to be his latest floozie! This cowboy may be hot but he's not going to turn Liberty's head, is he? As they increasingly spend time together Liberty sees an unexpected side to Devin and she likes it, oh boy does she like it! Devins sexy and has an appetite that just might see him quenching a fire that's raging inside Liberty but there's a reason he needs protection and Liberty can't risk losing her focus. The rocking distraction he poses is the least of her worries though as when the tour is over then she just might leave her heart behind.
I love the sexy cowboy books that this author writes and even though this book is not set in a rural landscape we still get treated to a whole lot of western style loving! This story is rife with so much lust and passion that I'm surprised my kindle didn't start to melt! This is such a hot couple but they are perfectly matched. It doesn't matter how in charge Liberty may be in her work when it comes to the bedroom Devin takes matters ( and other things!) into his own hands! It's a tough journey for these two characters though as Liberty doesn't see a place for herself long term in Devins world . She's a woman who knows what she wants and her career is important to her. A life at a mans beck and call is not for her but what else could Devin offer?

Devin is quite guarded emotionally, and indeed he's had really bad experiences in the past but his journey with Liberty is filled with heart. I was so busy being engulfed by the white hot passion between these two that I hadn't expected the author to cause me to tear up with just a few sentences during a beach scene. No spoilers here, but to go from erotic scenes to pure emotion so easily is an amazing talent and I applaud Ms James for such a fantastic piece of writing.

I've never read a book about musicians on the road before and I was immensely impressed with just how realistic this story felt and I could almost imagine that I was on tour with these amazing characters!

This series has certainly hit it's stride and each book has a unique feel . I think they are all easily read as standalone's but it would be a crying shame to miss out on all the goodness that the Blacktop Cowboys offer!

Filled with lots of hot sex (maybe not for the faint of heart) but if you are broad minded and want a story that will pull you in then this book delivers, big time!

Hillbilly Rockstar

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Carnal Magic

Lila Dubois is a top selling author of paranormal, fantasy and contemporary erotic romance. Having spent extensive time in France, Egypt, Turkey, England and Ireland Lila speaks five languages, none of them (including English) fluently. She now lives in Los Angeles with a cute Irishman.

Keep up with Lila online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.


Carnal Magic
THE WRATH ACCORDS Book #1

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What if the one you wanted more than any other was the only one you couldn’t trust?

The Wraith Accords, Book 1

Two hundred years after the Tuatha de Danann and Vampires formed a fragile alliance, the Wraith Accords are unraveling. Isabel Santiago is a leader in one of the most powerful of the vampire cabals, and she agrees to join the Fae court as a gesture of goodwill—and damage control.

While Aed mac Goll’s loyalty to Fae is absolute, he’s never supported the accords which gave the Vampires sanctuary and restored the Tuatha de’s link to humanity. The very idea he could desire an undead human is unthinkable, yet he’s drawn to Isabel’s dark beauty and fierce intelligence.

Despite their mutual mistrust, they soon find themselves lost in a dangerous game of lust and power. When the treaty shatters amid calls for Isabel’s head, Aed realizes their connection is more than physical. And to save it, they’ll have to unravel a mystery that’s been a thousand years in the making.

Warning: Contains sex, violence, magic and bloodlust. You know, the good stuff.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Nocturnal Nymph - Michelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

This is a vampire/fae story like I haven't read before. This is my first book by Lila Dubois and I am very glad I was able to read this one. Lila was able to draw me into a great story and made me feel like I was a part of it and I love when a book does that!

Sexy, intriguing and such a different take on vampire/fae love. There was mystery and lots of history to the different realms, but I wasn't so much history that you were bored, you wanted more! Isabel is the type of strong heroine that I like in books of this genre, and Aed was a great fit for her.

All in all I really liked this book and I give it 4 skulls.

Carnal Magic

Friday, June 13, 2014

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Life and Death of Jorja Graham


Brynn Myers is an adult paranormal romance/urban fantasy author. After considering writing a hobby for years, she's finally decided to turn her passion and talent into a career. She came into the paranormal book genre later than most but has always loved fairy-tales and all things magical. She uses that love to create her own charmed worlds by writing stories involving passionate, strong willed characters with something to discover. Brynn lives with her family in the Brevard County, Florida area. 

Keep up with Brynn online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and onGoodReads.




The Life and Death of Jorja Graham
JORJA GRAHAM Book #1

Buy from Amazon / B&N / Kobo / iTunes

All my life I've been referred to as the quintessential southern bell: blonde, stunningly beautiful, and overtly enchanting, but that was only the face I shared with the world; no one ever knew the hell I truly endured.

After returning to Savannah, I had everything I ever wanted: a new home, a handsome suitor, and the job of my dreams as an antique dealer. Little did I know that the choice to move on with my life would be the last decision I’d ever make.

My name is Jorja Graham and my story is proof that not every romance has a happy ending.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:

--actual rating 4.5 skulls

What a delightful breath of fresh air this book was!

Jorja thinks that the death of her mother is the start to her turning her life around and putting all of the hurt of the past behind her and it looks like she's right. As the synopsis says, she lands the job of her dreams running an auction out of this beautiful and mysterious old mansion that she's always had a fascination with, she finds a guy that admittedly she's unsure of at first, but who wins her over by spoiling her rotten, she has an incredible family support system behind her and more. And then the mystery kicks in....

There are secrets to this old mansion and its belongings. There are secrets that Corbin is keeping from Jorja, as well. And when everything is revealed layer by layer you will be sucked in and left gasping.

The first person narrative of The Life and Death of Jorja Graham allows you to really get into the heart and head of our heroine and feel everything that she's going through each step of the way. The supporting cast is stellar, and each and every one of them is needed and incredible. I love the aunts! They're little firecrackers, and I could totally relate. I mean who doesn't have a set of meddlesome family members. LOL. Corbin is a deep hero. He has so many facets and it's fun to reveal each of them as Jorja learns them herself.

The pace of the novel was perfect. It had a slow build, but was still utterly engaging, and when it hit its plateau... holy hannah! It sped along like a runaway freight train and when that last page was turned and all was revealed all you can do as a reader is sit there a bit stunned saying "whaa?", which is the PERFECT way to set up series for a sequel. :)

I highly recommend this book to all readers regardless of your 'normal' niche. But be warned... if you're looking for a spectacularly sparkly HEA, this is not the book you'll find it in, however, if you want something a little more gritty and real despite its fantastical elements, then you definitely want to read this!

I can't wait to see what's in store in the world of LDJG in book #2.

The Life and Death of Jorja Graham