Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Waiting On Wednesday - November 30th

My WOW pick this week is
Partials by Dan Wells
Available - February 2012
Synopsis via Goodreads


The human race is all but extinct after a war with Partials—engineered organic beings identical to humans—has decimated the population. Reduced to tens of thousands by RM, a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island while the Partials have mysteriously retreated. The threat of the Partials is still imminent, but worse, no baby has been born immune to RM in more than a decade. Our time is running out.

Kira, a sixteen-year-old medic in training, is on the front lines of this battle, seeing RM ravage the community while mandatory pregnancy laws threaten to launch what’s left of humanity into civil war, and she’s not content to stand by and watch. But as she makes a desperate decision to save the last of her race, she will discover that the survival of humans and Partials alike rests in her attempts to uncover the connections between them—connections that humanity has forgotten, or perhaps never even knew were there.

Dan Wells, acclaimed author of I Am Not a Serial Killer, takes readers on a pulse-pounding journey into a world where the very concept of what it means to be human is in question—one where our humanity is both our greatest liability and our only hope for survival.

*****

What are you waiting on this week?

Meme details: Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine. Don’t forget to stop by her blog and share your WOW pick for this week.
Monday, November 28, 2011

Review: Dead of Night: A Zombie Novel by Jonathan Maberry


Title: Dead of Night: A Zombie Novel
Author: Jonathan Maberry | Website
Available: Now
Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Horror/Zombies
Source: Amazon Vine










Description via Goodreads:


A prison doctor injects a condemned serial killer with a formula designed to keep his consciousness awake while his body rots in the grave.  But all drugs have unforeseen side-effects.  Before he could be buried, the killer wakes up.  Hungry.  Infected.  Contagious.  This is the way the world ends.  Not with a bang…but a bite.


My thoughts:


Dead of Night takes place in a small Pennsylvania town that becomes infested with flesh eating zombies after a notorious serial killer, injected with a serum that would cause his conciousness to stay aware once he was buried, awakes in the local funeral home and starts feasting on the unsuspecting residents. The epidemic spreads quickly through the small town and soon even the police force have become one of the walking dead. 



Over the course of Dead of Night we see the chaos through the eyes of numerous characters. I found this quite difficult to follow for the the first 50-80 pages, but once I had become used to Maberry's writing style and the "voices" of his characters I was able to read the remaining 300 pages without difficulty. I liked that we not only saw the action via the villains and heroes, but from the POV of one of the infected. It was interesting to experience the thought process of a character carrying the infection. To know a little awareness still remained made this novel all the more frightening.


With so many characters weighing in, you'd think character development would be lacking. This wasn't the case. I sympathized with those fighting for the greater good and despised the bad guys. You won't believe who ends up being the bad guys in this one! Officer Dez Fox is determined to save her little town. She is a character that comes into this madness all ready emotionally damaged. It seems characters that share this quality are always more willing to put their life on the line. I liked her though and her partner J.T.


I'd most definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys a gruesome (emphasis on the gruesome) tale of zombies taking over the world one small town at a time. The ending of Dead of Night was wide open, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it turn into a series (and I definitely wouldn't complain).


My Rating:


Sunday, November 27, 2011

Winners: Too Wicked To Wed & Deliciously Sinful


& the winners are.....

marlenebreakfield
Michele Lawrence
ayancey

Congratulations!!

An email will be on its way shortly. Please reply with your mailing info by Tuesday evening. Michele, I don't have an email address for you. Please email me TheFictionEnthusiast @live.com 

Thanks to all who entered. You can find more giveaways to enter here.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Giveaway: The Great Scots and Highland Heat Blog Tour



Title: The Sinner
Series: Return of the Highlanders #2
Author: Margaret Mallory | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Historical Romance
Reading Level: Adult

Alex MacDonald is known for his skill as a warrior, his prowess with women, and his vow to never take a wife. But now his chieftain has asked him to make the ultimate sacrifice: wed Glynis MacNeil, a lass famed throughout the Highlands for her exquisite beauty—and defiant ways. Familiar with heartbreak, Glynis refuses to fall for another handsome scoundrel. Yet when Alex’s past sins force an unlikely union, Glynis gives in to temptation and becomes his wife. Will their newfound passion be strong enough to fight the enemy that threatens their home, their clan, and their very lives?

Add on Goodreads


Title: Highland Hero
Series: Scottish Knights Trilogy #2
Author: Amanda Scott | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Historical Romance
Reading Level: Adult

When Scotland’s Queen Annabella dies, her devastated niece, Lady Marsaili Cargill, takes charge of the seven-year-old prince James, who is second in line to the throne. But rumors abound that the King’s brother—the Duke of Albany—will stop at nothing to fulfill his ambition to govern Scotland. But before Marsi can help the young prince escape to the safety of St. Andrews Academy, she will need to confront the men seeking to use her—and accept the help of the King’s devoted master archer, Sir Ivor Mackintosh. With traitors and assassins all around, Marsi and Ivor must risk all for the little prince James, while hoping for a future that will allow their love to flourish.

Add on Goodreads

I have 3 sets of The Sinner & Highland Hero up for grabs courtesy of Hachette Book Group.
Please use the RaffleCopter form below to enter.


Saturday, November 19, 2011

Review: Kat, Incorrigible by Stephanie Burgis


Title: Kat, Incorrigible
Series: The Unladylike Adventures of Kat Stephens #1
Author: Stephanie Burgis | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Fantasy
Reading Level: Middle Grade
Source: Galley Grab










Description via Goodreads:


Katherine Ann Stephenson has just discovered that she's inherited her mother's magical talents, and despite Stepmama's stern objections, she's determined to learn how to use them. But with her eldest sister Elissa's intended fiancé, the sinister Sir Neville, showing a dangerous interest in Kat's magical potential; her other sister, Angeline, wreaking romantic havoc with her own witchcraft; and a highwayman lurking in the forest, even Kat's reckless heroism will be tested to the upmost. If she can learn to control her new powers, will Kat be able to rescue her family and win her sisters their true love?


My thoughts:


Kat is the youngest of the widowed vicar’s three daughters, and the constant bane of her stepmother’s existence. When Kat discovers she has inherited her mother’s gift for magic she hopes she can find a way to solve her family’s financial woes that doesn’t involve her older sister marrying the frightening Sir Neville. The only catch is the magic is off limits so she can’t let anyone know about her new found talent. Kat manages to stir up all kinds of trouble along the way.

I have a list of things that seems to draw me to certain books. This list just happens to include magic, a strong-minded heroine, a historical time period, or an England setting. Kat, Incorrigible had ALL of these. This book was like my dream read come true. Oh how much do I adore this book! It was truly a breath of fresh air.

Don’t let the cartoon cover fool you. This is a book that can easily appeal to fantasy and magic fans of all ages. The precocious Kat is one of the most delightful heroines I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Her hijinks never failed to entertain. The secondary characters contained the perfect amount of quirkiness. I have a soft spot for eccentric characters, and this little book was packed full of them. I loved the unique qualities each of the three sisters possessed and when you put them all together the sibling banter was so much fun. There is also a brother who I hope we’ll get to meet as this series continues.

The plot was a perfect mix of action and entertaining dialogue. I didn’t want to see it end! I can’t rave enough about this amazing book. I’m so glad it is a series debut and not a standalone novel. I can’t wait to tag along on more of Kat’s wild adventures. If I could give it a rating higher than 5 stars I would. Kat, Incorrigible is my newest favorite book! 




Friday, November 18, 2011

Cover Reveal: Battle Scars (Elemental #2) by Cesya MaRae Cuono

COVER REVEAL


How do you carry on fighting for your family when you’re left scarred and broken? When your dreams are plagued by nightmares, how do you strengthen the armor needed to protect yourself again? Callie’s been defeated by the loss of her entire family. With the help of old and new friends, will she build her battle armor up and fight the evil hands of the Demons who threaten to destroy her new home? Or will her battle scars leave her too broken and empty to fight?



Gorgeous isn’t it? Congrats, Cesya on another beautiful cover!

Battle Scars is the 2nd book in the Elemental series and will be available late 2012.

The first book, Elemental Reality, is available now.

Find out more about the author and series by visiting Cesya MaRae Cuono’s blog or following her on Twitter.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Review: Clarity by Kim Harrington


Title: Clarity
Series: Clarity #1
Author: Kim Harrington
Available: Now
Genre: Paranormal
Reading Level: YA
Source: Vine












Description via Goodreads:


When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth? 

This paranormal murder mystery will have teens reading on the edge of their seats. 


Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift. 
And a curse. 


When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case - but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother - who has supernatural gifts of his own - becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?



My thoughts:


Clarity "Clare" Fern's abilities have earned her more than her fair share of bullying and teasing. She has a little thing called retrocognitive psychometry. She can pick up on memories just by touching things. Teamed up with her telepathic mother and an older brother who can talk to ghosts, they earn a living giving readings to the tourist community of Eastport. When the usually boring town discovers a tourist was shot at a local hotel, Clare finds herself enlisted to help the police solve the crime. This has her working closely with the dangerously handsome son of the new detective, and also the ex she can't forgive for doing her wrong. She is also attempting to prove the innocence of her brother, Perry, who was the last person to see the murdered girl alive, and finding it difficult to keep his secrets when working so closely with the police.



I devoured this book in practically one sitting. I loved both the main and secondary characters, and was very impressed with how well developed they were considering the book's length (242 pages). Clare is a sassy chick who refuses to let the her peers teasing get her down. When faced with their taunts, her quick witted nature always provides her with a snarky reply. I'm a girl who loves a book with a healthy serving of snark so this was greatly appreciated ;) I also absolutely adored Clare's eccentric mom, and the interactions between mother and daughter. I can just imagine the edge telepathy would provide when it comes to parenting, but I thought Clare's mom did a pretty great job of not overstepping boundaries while being a strong and consistent presence in her children's lives.


Now lets talk about the boys! This book is filled to the brim with cute boys! Perry is Clare's older brother and a bit of a womanizer. Gabriel is the new hottie in town, and he has the bad boy image down to an art. Clare's ex Justin is trying to win her back after an alcohol induced mistake (FYI Don't cheat on a psychic and expect to not get caught!). He actually seems like a great guy, but who can blame Clare for not being able to forgive his indiscretions. Nate is Perry's best friend, and an all around sweetheart. He works at the local paper as an intern, and while his role wasn't screaming love interest, I think he is a great match for Clare. So like I said lots and lots of boys with serious "book boyfriend" potential ;)


Clarity features such a great mix of paranormal elements, and a mystery that had me guessing until the very end. The author has a writing style I thoroughly enjoyed, and she did such an excellent job of executing the plot of this book. I felt like every possible hole had been filled. Towards the end of the book, we find Clare asking a very unlikely ally questions, and receiving some seriously cryptic answers in response. Now I'm fiending for book #2 in a bad, bad way. There are so many secrets left to unravel in the coastal town of Eastport. I have a feeling this just might be the beginning of a series I am going to love! Also keep in mind when recommending this to younger teens that Clare's wit isn't always PG, and where there is murder there will be violence. I'd be hesitant to recommend this to anyone under the age of 15.


Cover Thoughts: I love it! Totally how I pictured Clare while reading. The background really emphasizes that it takes place in a coastal town.


My Rating:


Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Review & Giveaway: The Secret of Spruce Knoll by Heather McCorkle


Title: The Secret of Spruce Knoll
Series: The Channelers #1
Author: Heather McCorkle | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
Reading Level: YA
Source: Author












Description via Goodreads:


It’s hard enough being a teenager under normal circumstances; imagine being orphaned, sent to live with an unfamiliar aunt—and learning that there really is magic in the world. Following the tragic death of her parents, Eren Donovan moves to Spruce Knoll to live with her aunt. Little does Eren know the entire town of Spruce Knoll is filled with “channelers”—a magical group of people who immigrated to the small Colorado town when they were driven out of their own lands. 

Channelers are tied to the fate of the world. As the world slowly dies, so do they—and they alone have the power to stop the destruction of Earth. Now, Eren learns she not only lives among them, but she is one. When she meets local boy Aiden, his charm convinces her that being a channeler may not be all bad. 

As Eren and Aiden’s relationship blooms, so too does a mystery in Spruce Knoll. The town holds many secrets—and many enemies. It soon becomes apparent that the untimely death of Eren’s parents-and Aidens-was no accident and that her life might be in danger, too. Only time will tell if Eren has the power to protect the people she has come to love



My thoughts:


Heather McCorkle’s debut novel takes us into the mysterious community of Spruce Knoll. Main character, Eren, is forced to move with her aunt to the small-town after the death of her parents. Once she arrives she quickly realizes there is something more to the isolated community than meets the eye. Separated by culture and extremely protective of what land is theirs. Secrets soon come to the surface and she is informed she is a Channeler with powers linked to the earth. Talk about information overload! Eren finds a new friend (and crush) in an Irish boy named Aiden. He seems to make her strange new life almost bearable. Then the drama begins to unfold and Eren is thrust into a web of danger and deceit.


I have always enjoyed reading Heather’s blog posts and following her journey into the world of a published write. The Secret of Spruce Knoll contains the same well thought out and structured writing I’ve come to associate with Heather. The world building is truly amazing. She paid great attention down to the smallest detail. As a reader it was so easy to imagine myself running beside Eren as she explored her new home. Speaking of Eren, I really enjoyed getting to know the Channeler in training. She’d been dealt a tough hand at the start of the book and seemed to be taking it better than I would in her shoes. Life in Spruce Knoll isn’t easy for her. It isn’t common for residents to marry outside of their culture, so her Mayan/Irish blood made her a target for dirty looks and hate. 

There was also a really great mystery and loads of suspense. Eren didn’t expect so much excitement when she first laid eyes on Spruce Knoll. Unfortunately, she finds herself the focus of some not so nice people who definitely don't want to see her cozying up to the Irish hottie, Aiden. As Eren gets deeper and deeper into the drama she is shocked by the discoveries she makes.

The Secret of Spruce Knoll is a beautifully executed debut novel. I’m excited to see what Heather McCorkle has planned for the lovely Eren next. Please keep in mind The Secret of Spruce Knoll does contain scenes that may be a little dark and heavy for younger teens. I’d recommend it for ages 15+



My Rating:


Giveaway:

Books aren’t the only thing I get all passionate and crazy about. I’m also a HUGE animal lover. This seems to be something I share with the lovely Heather McCorkle. She is doing something awesome and donating a portion of the proceeds from a special edition of The Secret of Spruce Knoll to her favorite charity that helps endangered species. So I decided I would love to give a copy to one of you.

Open to residents of the U.S
To enter leave a comment telling me what your favorite endangered species is along with a way to contact you (email/twitter/carrier pigeon/etc.)
Ends 11/27

If you would like to order your very own special edition of The Secret of Spruce Knoll & help some endangered critters info can be found here: http://thecompasspress.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Review: Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier



Title: Ruby Red
Series: Edelstein Trilogy #1
Author: Kerstin Gier
Available: Now
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Fantasy/Time-travel












Description from Goodreads:


Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.


My thoughts:



Ruby Red is the first translated novel I have ever read. I was a little nervous starting it, but after just a few chapters I found I had no reason to be. I loved the premise. Time travel is so cool, but I have found books that touch on this topic rarely work for me. Ruby Red definitely worked. Some of the dialogue did fall a bit flat, and I’ll assume this is a result of being translated from another language. Even with this flaw I still found Ruby Red thoroughly engaging.

Main character Gwyneth was quite awkward at times, and I couldn't help but to like her even more because of it. It was difficult not to feel pity for her especially when scenes involved her interacting with her "perfect" cousin, Charlotte or aunt (Charlotte’s mother). It didn't help that Gwyneth had spent most of her life excluded from the mysterious society her family is involved with because they thought Charlotte had inherited the gene required for time travel. Imagine the surprise when it turns out Gwyneth is actually the one who is able to do it. This is a family with some serious skeletons in their closets, residual anger over past events, and numerous secrets that are just begging to be unveiled. 

I enjoyed experiencing multiple time periods over the course of Ruby Red. It was also entertaining to discover how Gwyneth adapted to the situations she was thrown into and the people she met. A few scenes were actually quite humorous and there was also an apt amount of mystery and suspense. I did find the family tree somewhat confusing. Hopefully who is related to who will become more clear as I continue the trilogy.

Ruby Red is a solid read that I had difficulty putting down and hated to see end. I found myself thinking about it long after I finished reading. I wish I could read German, because I imagine this book is even better in its native tongue. It's a shame I didn’t pick up more of the language during the five years I lived there. If I had you better believe I’d have the next book in my hands right now. Needless to say I can't wait for the release of the next book in this trilogy. 


My Rating:


Monday, November 14, 2011

Review: Enclave by Ann Aguirre



Title: Enclave
Series: Razorland #1
Author: Ann Aguirre | Website
Available: Now
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Dystopian
Source: Publisher










Description from Goodreads:


WELCOME TO THE APOCALYPSE 

In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember. 

As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning. 

Down below, deviation from the rules is punished swiftly and harshly, and Fade doesn’t like following orders. At first she thinks he’s crazy, but as death stalks their sanctuary, and it becomes clear the elders don’t always know best, Deuce wonders if Fade might be telling the truth. Her partner confuses her; she’s never known a boy like him before, as prone to touching her gently as using his knives with feral grace. 

As Deuce’s perception shifts, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival. The mindless Freaks, once considered a threat only due to their sheer numbers, show signs of cunning and strategy… but the elders refuse to heed any warnings. Despite imminent disaster, the enclave puts their faith in strictures and sacrifice instead. No matter how she tries, Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she’s ever known.



My thoughts:


I had heard so many amazing things about Ann Aguirre's books and kept meaning to give one of her series a try. When I heard she had a dystopian/post-apocalyptic series coming out I knew that would be a perfect place to start. When I discovered the book also contained zombieish creatures I knew it was definitely going to me my very first Ann Aguirre book.


Enclave throws readers into an underground world with a social structure that the characters accept, but will terrify readers and leave them thinking what if. What if this happens in my lifetime? What if my children grow up and have to live in a world like the one in this book? Enclave is frightening, but oh so addictive. Needless to say the world building that happened in Enclave is amazing! I was seriously impressed. With the page count just shy of 300 this is an excellent testament of Ann Aguirre's talented writing skills.


Main character Deuce is certifiably badass. I would not want to be on the receiving end of an ass kicking from this chick. When Fade enters the picture you know I was in immediate love. Dark, brooding, and mysterious are top three requirements for book boyfriend, and I have a feeling that these are characteristics MC Deuce also appreciates. I loved that they could kick zombie butt and then have these intense connections after. These two rock the chemistry hard.


Loads of action, conspiracy, and double crossing. Life inside the enclave is scary enough, but wait until you see what is happening outside. The book ends with the perfect setup for the next in the series. Enclave is an amazing dystopian debut and one that can easily hang with the big boys of the genre. Plus there are Freaks *cough* zombies *cough*. I'm of the school of thought that a mindless flesh eating being always brings a little something special to a novel. If you agree or are a reader fiending for a new dystopian novel, give this one a go. I don't think you'll be disappointed.


My Rating:


Sunday, November 13, 2011

Review & Giveaway: Turning Up the Heat Blog Tour



Title: Too Wicked To Wed
Series: Lords of Midnight #1
Author: Cara Elliott | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Historical Romance
Reading Level: Adult

Description via Goodreads:

Outspoken and independent, Lady Alexa Bingham enjoys the heady freedom of making all her own decisions, even though the challenges of overseeing her family's country estate are daunting. But when a chance encounter with London's most notorious rake awakens a secret longing for adventure, she accepts her aunt's invitation for a Season in Town . . . only to find that breaking the rules of the ton has serious consequences.
The Earl of Killingworth uses his rakehell reputation to hide the fact that poverty has forced him to work for a living. As the owner of a gambling den and brothel, Connor has no time for glittering ballrooms or innocent young ladies. But after a reckless wager leaves him with a new business partner, he is forced to take a risky gamble . . . Will the cards fall in their favor? Alexa and Connor begin to play a dangerous game of intrigue and deception as they seek to outwit a cunning adversary who wants to put them permanently out of business. But if they are not careful, it is the flames of their own fiery attraction that may destroy them.
My thoughts:


Loved it! Too Wicked to Wed starts Cara Elliott's new series off amazingly. Main characters Connor and Alexa meet in a brothel where they engage in a steamy kiss up against a very erotic painting. With the story starting out on such an intense note I was worried the author would be hard pressed to continue the momentum. I had no reason to worry. They had a chemistry that was palpable from page one, and it just kept getting better and better. I couldn't get enough of them together. Alexa was so sassy and brave. She is exactly the type of character I hope to encounter when picking up a historical romance novel. Connor was also unbelievably sexy. Wow, wow, wow! He had me swooning. It was easy to see why Alexa became so easily smitten with the man aptly nicknamed "The Irish Wolfhound".

Too Wicked to Wed also offers a healthy dose of suspense. Someone is out to get Connor, and Alexa is eager to help him solve the mystery much to his dismay. I was flipping through the pages of Too Wicked to Wed at a rapid pace eager to discover the "bad guys" as well as to witness more steamy (and a few heartwarming) moments between Alexa and Connor. 

We also meet Connor's closest friends, Cameron and Gryff. I think it is safe to assume we will get to know them better as this series continues. I for one can't wait! This was a superb start to a brand new series. Cara Elliott did a great job of creating an engaging story that will leave readers pining for more.

My Rating:



Title: Deliciously Sinful
Author: Lilli Feisty | Website
Available: 11/22/2011
Genre: Romance
Reading Level: Adult

Description via Goodreads:


Things are cooking in the kitchen...and the bedroom.
Restaurant owner Phoebe Mayle thought she had it all under control. Sure, her new chef has a bad-boy reputation - and a chiseled body to match - but she's positive she can whip him into shape.
But from the moment Nick Avalon roars into town in his Hummer, he makes her whole world sizzle. Now Phoebe has lost control of her kitchen, and Nick has taken over her mind and her body. His insatiable appetite for pleasure leaves her breathless with carnal cravings only he can satisfy. Yet can their hunger for each other be a recipe for a love that lasts?


Quotable quotes:

"Out of all the women in all the world, he had to go and slather chocolate on this one."


My thoughts:

Holy hotness, Batman! Deliciously Sinful almost started a five-alarm fire in my living room. Wowzers! I've become a bit of a romance junkie since starting my blog, but erotic romance isn't something I've read much of. After experiencing Lilli Feisty's, Deliciously Sinful, I have to ask myself why that is. I totally loved this story! 

Nick is a badass chef from L.A. After getting wrapped up in a scandal, he takes a job working for Phoebe at the small-town cafe she inherited from her aunt and uncle. Nick is 100% bad boy and carrying a massive chip on his shoulder. Phoebe is a temper wielding control freak. Both main characters possess very dominant personalities. This causes them to be at each others throats from day one. Their shared anger quickly dissolves into an undeniable attraction and leads to some less than professional behavior in the storage room, on the beach, at his house. Well, you get the picture.

I fell in love with setting of Deliciously Sinful. The "hippie" community of Redbolt, California is exactly the type of place I envision myself (hopefully) living someday. The writing was also beautifully descriptive. The time and detail dedicated to exploring tastes, textures, and smells had my mouth watering. I love food centric books. Food played a huge (at times unorthodox) role in Deliciously Sinful. There were several scenes involving food and kitchen tools in ways I don't think my mind would be capable of conjuring on its own. I'm blushing just thinking about it ;) This book is seriously HOT no question, but it is also paired with perfectly developed characters who evolve and change so much over the course of the novel. Deliciously Sinful is much more than just sexy time (no worries there is plenty of that as well). Utterly fabulous! I do wish the ending had been stretched out a bit more. The tension and emotion that built up while reading was so strong and intense that the ending left we wanting just a little more. I'm a sucker for a drawn out dramatic ending. What can I say :)


The author also took the time to introduce several secondary characters including Phoebe's niece and brother-in-law who I'm eager to learn more about. I truly hope she considers revisiting the town of Redbolt in forthcoming novels. Regardless of where she takes reader next, I will definitely be picking up more of Lilli Feisty's books in the future.

My Rating:




Giveaway:

I have 3 sets of Too Wicked to Wed & Deliciously Sinful up for grabs.

Open to residents of the U.S & Canada
No P.O Boxes please
Ends 11/22
Fill out This Form to enter