Roxanne Rhoads's Blog, page 568
June 12, 2011
A Review of The Strange Case of Finley Jayne
Finley Jayne knows she's not 'normal'. Normal girls don't lose time, or have something inside them that makes them capable of remarkably violent things. Her behavior has already cost her one job, so when she's offered the lofty position of companion to Phoebe, a debutante recently engaged to Lord Vincent, she accepts, despite having no experience. Lord Vincent is a man of science with his automatons and inventions, but Finley is suspicious of his motives where Phoebe is concerned. She will do anything to protect her new friend, but what she discovers is even more monstrous than anything she could have imagined…
An ebook exclusive prequel to The Steampunk Chronicles.
My Review:
I am so glad I got to read this before The Girl in the Steel Corset. Great way to be introduced to the world and the characters though I must say after reading The Girl in the Steel Corset a few things don't line up- like when Finley says TGITSC she's never been to a ball or danced before yet in this prequel she did. Also in TGITSC she never mentions the characters in this prequel- obviously this was written after TGITSC and used as marketing story but honestly the minor details like that don't matter because the characters and the story itself are fabulous. Finley is immediately a likable character and the world is interesting.
I am really starting to get into the whole steampunk thing and this series has really pushed my interest even further.
If you love Kathryn Smith's adult books you'll love this teen series written as Kady Cross.
And by the way you can grab this book for free right now for your Kindle just click the Amazon link above.
June 11, 2011
Steampunk Sunday
So all day today I'll be featuring steampunk books and links for your enjoyment. I might even have a giveaway.
So to kick everything off here's a list of steampunk websites and blogs for your steamy enjoyment.
http://www.steampunk.com/
http://www.steampunktribune.com/
http://www.steampunktribune.com/
http://www.steampunknews.co.uk/
http://daily-steampunk.com/steampunk-blog/
http://freetheprincess.blogspot.com/
http://thesteamreview.blogspot.com/
http://steampunkadventures.blogspot.com/
http://beyondvictoriana.com/
http://www.doctorfantastiques.com/
http://madsteampunkery.blogspot.com/
http://steampunkguides.com
This list below was found on the Kady Cross website
Steampunk AuthorsCherie Priest: http://www.cheriepriest.com/Scott Westerfeld: http://scottwesterfeld.com/blog/Gail Carriger: http://www.gailcarriger.com/Steampunk Clothingwww.clockworkcouture.comwww.steampunkemporium.comhttp://steampunkcostume.com/http://www.etsy.com/shop/lillysworkshophttp://community.livejournal.com/steamfashionSteampunk Siteshttp://steampunkworkshop.com/www.steampunkmagazine.comwww.drgrymmlaboratories.com/www.brassgoggles.co.uk/forum/Steampunk Musicwww.EmilieAutumn.com www.vernianprocess.com/www.johnnyhollowmusic.com/www.rasputina.com/www.clockworkcabaret.com/ (radio show)
June 10, 2011
Guest Blog and Midnight Conquest Giveaway with Arial Burnz
Greetings! I'm honored to be a guest on the Fang-Tastic Book blog today. I aim to provide some fun trivia information for paranormal fans while I share a touch of my debut novel. At the end of the blog, you'll see links to an excerpt, my web site and blog, the first chapter, where to purchase my novel…and don't forget to leave a comment so you have a chance to enter the contest. I'm giving away 2 eBook copies of my novel.
To start off my discussion, I'll include the opening paragraphs of MIDNIGHT CONQUEST:
Scottish Fortress of the Vamsyrian Council—1486
"Death? Shall I—" Another wave of agony pressed upon his chest. Broderick MacDougal braced as razor-like pain raked through the inside of his body and coursed through his veins.
He dropped to his knees. Putting his hands in front of him, he kept his face from hitting the sandstone as the breath was knocked from his lungs. Panting, he laid his cheek against the floor. The cold stone soothed the fever of his skin. The sound of his ragged breaths echoed off the vastness of the Vamsyrian Fortress. As the agony subsided, he struggled to right himself and stared at the youthful faces of the Elders.
The Elders of the Vamsyrian Council sat on their black iron thrones behind the expanse of their black marble table, looking like anything but elders. They glared down at Broderick, who knelt on the floor before them. All three men of various unknown nationalities and features, garbed in formal brocade robes of deep red, seemed no older than five-and-twenty years. Yet they measured their ages in centuries, Cordelia had told him.
--------------------------------
So begins the scene where my main character/hero of the story, Broderick MacDougal, becomes a vampire. However, the word "vampire" is never mentioned in my novel outside of the back of the book blurb or notes. You'll notice I use Vamsyrian – a concoction of my own with some Latin derivatives—which can easily transform into the word "vampire" as what happens often with words through time. Why? Because the word "vampire" did not exist prior to the 1730s.
Many avid readers of paranormal fiction are well-versed in vampire lore, but I was amazed to find out how many of these fang-fiction fans were not aware of this trivia fact. Etymology states the earliest written account of the word "vampire" was in 1732, specifically referencing Hungarian vampires. Before that, such immortal, undead creatures were more commonly known as Remnants and they were NOT a pretty site nor anywhere close to the vampires we've all come to love and know today. They resembled what we know as zombies—decaying, mindless, wandering to prey upon the living—and rarely did they drink blood. Remnants, and later vampires, were frequently blamed for dry cows, failed crops, and sickness/disease.
Of course, I'd much rather stick with the newer versions of vampires—sexy, sexual, and let-me-catch-my-breath personalities. However, I'm a traditionalist in a lot of ways, and I do adore the old battle of God versus Satan, vampires being afraid of crosses, holy water and all that. I decided, instead, to put a bit of a spin on the old lore and make it harder to harm vampires.
Readers will learn in my book (not really a spoiler) that water or objects blessed by priests or people of the cloth aren't effective against vampires:
"Water blessed by a priest or clergy of the church would do nothing to a Vamsyrian. They were only servants of God, and bore their own faults and sins upon their heads. Water to harm a Vamsyrian must to be touched by God Himself. Broderick's teacher Rasheed said the only source known for that supply of water could be found in the deserts of Arabia, where it was rumored Moses struck a rock, bringing forth water to slack the thirst of the wandering Israelites during their exodus to the Promised Land. If Rasheed knew the exact location, he did not share that with Broderick, nor did Broderick expect him to. Rasheed taught Broderick what he must and nothing more. Such dark secrets were shared with few."
There are other facts about my vampire lore; some of which are revealed in MIDNIGHT CONQUEST. Much more is revealed in Book 2 – MIDNIGHT CAPTIVE.
You'll get a sneak peak of Book 2 at the end of Book 1.
But the big bomb – the identity of the first vampire – isn't revealed until Book 6 – MIDNIGHT DELIVERER. Mwuhahahaha!
We are all busy people and have a million things to do, so I will leave you with the promised links and information.
Remember, post a comment on this blog to be entered into the contest- 2 ebook copies are being given away.
For your post, I'd love to know three things:
1) What do you like MOST about vampire lore (in modern or historical literature)?
2) What do you like LEAST?
3) Name at least two of your favorite authors and why.
Don't be afraid to be honest if it goes against what I've posted. Opinions are like belly buttons…everyone's got one! ;)
Thank you for participating and visiting Fang-Tastic Books!
I'll be available to answer comments and questions throughout the day and I'll announce the winner by 7pm PST.
That's my two pence…
Arial
Links:
• Arial Burnz—web site—http://www.ArialBurnz.com
• Arial Burnz—blog—http://arialburnz.wordpress.com
• First Chapter of MIDNIGHT CONQUEST-- http://www.arialburnz.com/bbb/MidnightConquest_Ch01.pdf
• Book Trailer— http://www.arialburnz.com/bbb/index.htm
• Purchase AND Excerpt on All Romance eBooks— http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-midnightconquest-557235-139.html
Witchy Writing with Deborah Blake
So I turn to books for advice and knowledge.
I've went through a lot of witchcraft and Wicca books over the years and I have to say Deborah Blake's newest books are the best ones ever.
Everyday Witch A to Z and the Everyday Witch A to Z Spellbook are phenomenal- easy to read, easy to understand, and fun they make witchcraft modern and simple unlike many books that are so archaic and complicated it's hard to follow or remember anything.
And just recently she inked a deal for her next book- 50 RITUALS FOR THE EVERYDAY WITCH, a comprehensive guide to a year of magical practice for the modern witch.
Not only does Deborah Blake write she also teaches classes about writing- her Witchcraft for the Paranormal Author class recently ended which I am bummed that I missed it. But hopefully she'll offer it again.
Her Beyond Fangs—Creating New and Interesting Paranormal Characters
- class is coming up in October. I think I'm going to register now- the class is only $16.
If you need some magick help or advice- check out these books below.
Break out your broomstick, and add a spark of magick to every day! Do stuffy academic tomes on Witchcraft make you want to hide in your broom closet or cast a boredom-banishing spell? Now you can get the low-down on everything you ever wondered about Witchcraft, and it's as simple as A, B, C—sprinkled throughout with humor, flair, and a healthy dose of Witchy wisdom.
Unique and fun for everyone, Everyday Witch A to Z invites you to dip into a delightful medley of magickal essentials. Whether you're just setting out on the path or looking to add extra zest to your practice, this friendly book on Witchcraft is for you. From creating and casting spells to working with stones and herbs, you will learn how magick works, what Witches do, and how you can incorporate Witchcraft into your daily life. Even Magic the Cat, the author's magickal familiar, lends a playful paw with spells and wise words of her own!
This book is a great read and touches on just about everything that has to do with witches and witchcraft- it's perfect for beginners.
Today's Witch deals with everything from family drama to weight loss to fertility—concerns that go well beyond your average spellbook's well-worn repertoire. Brimming with practical everyday magick, this is the perfect companion for your multifaceted life.
Organized alphabetically, each of the nearly 200 spells has an associated goal to help you manifest your exact intention, plus corresponding candle colors, herbs, gemstones, and oils to help you focus your will more effectively. You'll also find a helpful primer on spellcasting, tips on crafting your own spells, and Magic the Cat's mewsings on working with a familiar. Fun and easy to use, this spellbook is filled with unique charms, blessings, and spells.
—Get ahead at work
—Fulfill obligations
—Control appetite
—Ensure safe childbirth
—Repair a damaged friendship
—Heal sick pets
—Strengthen a marriage
—Make sex more satisfying
—Quit bad habits
I love this book. It sits next to my computer, or at another within reach place, all the time and I use it a lot.
Yes, I even use the spells. The writing success spell is fabulous. Writers use it- it works.
Practicing Witchcraft doesn't have to cost an arm, a leg, and a broomstick!
From homemade tools to frugal feasts to thrifty home decoration, Deborah Blake offers economical tips and suggestions for stretching your dollar while enriching your practice. She gives clear, simple instructions for making your own magickal oils, runes, tarot cards, candles, jewelry, charms, and wands, all using inexpensive materials. Choose from over fifty ways to practice Witchcraft that cost little or no money, and try more than forty recipes for tasty sabbat dishes that cost ten dollars or less.
With a sprinkling of imagination and a touch of magick, you can add to your inner wealth of spirituality. After all, the best parts of being a Witch are always free.
This is the only one of Deborah's books I have not gotten my hands on yet- it's on my wish list and it will be in my hands soon. I hope.
From the hearth to the altar, make magic in every moment. Being a Witch isn't limited to casting a spell under the full moon or consecrating a ritual circle. Whether you're calling the Goddess or doing the dishes, your wonderfully witchy ways are woven into everything you do.
With her signature down-to-earth wisdom and warmth, Deborah Blake takes you into the heart of what it means to be a Witch all day, every day. Filled to the brim with practical suggestions, Pagan and Wicca spells, and helpful advice, this essential book brings to light all facets of a modern Witch's life: The seven core beliefs of Witches, mindful eating and health, creating sacred space at home, relationships with non-Pagans, sex and the single Witch, raising Pagan children, solitary and coven practice, Pagan ritual, and green living.
"Deborah Blake has created a practical method of weaving the spiritual into the daily chores of the mundane world in which we must live."-Edain McCoy, author of Advanced Witchcraft and If You Want to Be a Witch
This is a fabulous book with information and that can be used when creating witchy characters.
Green, Celtic, Alexandrian, Eclectic…every circle, coven, and grove of Witches is as unique as the magick they practice. No matter what kind of Witch you are, High Priestess Deborah Blake's guide to ritual has something for you.
Part instruction manual, part personal journal, and part Book of Shadows, this all-in-one ritual handbook is an ideal tool for busy Witches, new covens, and new priestesses, priests, or coven leaders. Celebrate the Wheel of the Year with original group rituals that can be used as written, personalized to reflect your coven's unique style, or modified for solitary practitioners. Along with practical tips on ritual basics, there are beautifully written New Moon rituals, Full Moon rituals, and Sabbat celebrations for each month and season.
Circle, Coven & Grove presents basic correspondences for magickal practice and coven work essentials such as circle etiquette. With seasonal spells, blessings, and rituals for celebrating holidays, increasing energy, giving thanks, healing, and more, this friendly book has everything you need.
This book is more traditional when it comes to witchcraft and is best for practicing or writing about coven magic.
Not for the solitary witch.
About the Author
Deborah Blake is the author of Circle, Coven and Grove: A Year of Magickal Practice (Llewellyn 2007), Everyday Witch A to Z: An Amusing, Inspiring & Informative Guide to the Wonderful World of Witchcraft (Llewellyn 2008), The Goddess is in the Details: Wisdom for the Everyday Witch (Llewellyn 2009), Everyday Witch A to Z Spellbook (2010) and Witchcraft on a Shoestring (2010). She has published numerous articles in Pagan publications, including Llewellyn annuals and has an ongoing column in Witches & Pagans Magazine.
Her award-winning short story, "Dead and (Mostly) Gone" is included in the Pagan Anthology of Short Fiction: 13 Prize Winning Tales (Llewellyn, 2008). Deborah had been interviewed on television, radio and podcast, and can be found online at Facebook, Twitter and www.myspace.com/deborahblakehps.
When not writing, Deborah runs The Artisans' Guild, a cooperative shop she founded with a friend in 1999, and also works as a jewelry maker. She lives in a 100 year old farmhouse in rural upstate New York with five cats who supervise all her activities, both magickal and mundane
Visit Deborah at http://www.deborahblakehps.com/ and http://deborahblake.blogspot.com/
June 9, 2011
Making Hell on Earth Sexy Guest Blog and Giveaway with Sidney Ayers
When people find out that Rafael Deleon, the hero in Demons Prefer Blondes, my debut paranormal romance from Sourcebooks Casablanca, I sometimes get the occasional eyebrow quirk. Aren't demons evil? How do you write a good demon? To be honest, I personally think there's a little devil in us all that helps us live life to the fullest. But when I started writing Demons Prefer Blondes, I actually asked myself the same question. How do I believably write a demon hero?
I didn't think I could realistically write a hero that was in essence evil. If you're familiar with the TV show Charmed, you saw what happened to Cole/Balthazar. Such a pity. Julian McMahon was so damn sexy in that role. So I decided I needed two sects of demons. The Infernati would be the traditional evil entities that we are used to. The other sect would be Paladins. The unique difference between the two is that Paladins are special demons blessed by angels. Their weapons are also blessed by angels. The Infernati live in Hell and the Paladins reside in Limbo. But the main difference is that the Infernati, even though they may have an attractive outward appearance, smell like a sewer. The Paladins, on the other hand—they're sexier than hell.
That's why I love writing paranormal and fantasy romance. You have the ability to make your own rules and create your own world. Whether it's exploding shampoo bowls or a stampede of men, your imagination can be limitless. Any sort of creature or being can be sexy if you put your mind to it.
Here's an excerpt from Demons Prefer Blondes…
"What do you mean the chest is missing?" Rafael Deleon managed through gritted teeth.
Even though the clacking of boots on the polished black marble grated his nerves, he paced the expansive room anyway. Candlelight flickered and flitted, sending darkened silhouettes darting against the ivory walls.
What about his sister? Jacoba had all but begged to join the guard, even though he'd pleaded with her not to. Unfortunately, Jacoba didn't need his approval. She won the Fore-Demon Council over, instead.
Dominic Duvane, shrouded in darkness, stood solitary in the corner of the High Council chamber. A forlorn expression etched across his face, adding to the already foreboding mood. The news was worse than Rafael had imagined. Utterly horrible.
Dominic drew in a ragged gulp of air. "The guards were ambushed."
"Who?" He shook his head. He didn't even need to ask the question. Belial, the bastard prince of northern regions of Hell.
Blasted Fore-Demons!
"Belial's Infernati warriors. Have a seat, my friend." Dominic motioned to the burgundy jacquard and gold gilt divan in the far recess of the room.
His heart sank. Dominic meant to talk to him as a comrade and not a colleague. This didn't bode well. He clenched his fists. He couldn't panic. To do so would show weakness. He needed to be strong—or at least appear so.
"What… happened?"
"The Infernati swooped in and torched the encampment." His friend's gaze grew somber. "I suggest sitting, Rafe."
Rafael folded his arms and raised his chin. "I'll stand." He'd receive the news like a man, not a coward. "Say whatever you need to say, my liege."
Dominic growled. "I might outrank you, but I'll be damned if I let you call me your liege."
Rafael shrugged. "Too bad we're already damned, Nic."
"The chest was to be our salvation." Dominic blew out an exasperated breath. "Bloody hell, Rafe. Why must you be so stubborn?"
"It runs in the family."
Dominic grabbed him by the arms, his eyes blazing. "Your sister was captured."
"She isn't dead. Our connection isn't severed."
Dominic nodded. "Yes, but who knows what tortures Belial has bestowed upon her." His gaze hardened and he clenched his fists. Jaw ticking, he paced. "I begged her not to join. I stood by you."
Rafael nodded. "Coby wouldn't take no for an answer. Even if the council forbade her, she would've found a way."
Fighting the thought of his beautiful sister with her magnificent flowing silver hair and enchanting silver eyes at Belial's mercy, Rafael crossed his arms in front of his chest. "What happened to her?"
"Coby's a hero." Dominic's jaw ticked, the demon blood tears rimming his eyes. "She managed to send the chest away before the guards could take it."
A soft smile curved his lips. Leave it to Coby to save the chest instead of saving herself. Despite his despair, he was still proud of his twin sister. However, he wasn't in the mood for Dominic to avert his questions. His gaze grew stern. "Where is she?"
"I guess I shouldn't hide the truth…"
Rafe arched a brow and leaned against the wall. "Well?"
Dominic sucked in a ragged breath, sending candles flickering. "This hurts me as much as you, you know."
"I do."
His friend nodded. "My sources report she's in Belial's dungeon."
Rafael clenched his fists as he held his anguish inside. Grinding his teeth, he paced. Bloody hell. Only a few of the strongest Paladin warriors had escaped that hellhole, but they were never quite the same after.
"Where did she send the chest?" he managed.
"Earth." Dominic flashed a halfhearted smile, his eyes wide and alert. "Your favorite place."
© Sidney Ayers, Sourcebooks Casablanca 2011
For the rest of the story, and how an unsuspecting beautician ends up releasing hello on earth from a mysterious chest… and possibly falling in love with a demon, you'll have to check out Demons Prefer Blondes! :-)
Thank you to Roxanne for having me on her blog today!
DEMONS PREFER BLONDES BY SIDNEY AYERS – IN STORES JUNE 2011
A Bad Day For A Demon
Rafe Deleon is a senior demon and he resents like hell his assignment to Earth to retrieve the Chest of the Damned before it falls into the wrong hands. But then he meets beautiful, intriguing succubus Lucy Gregory, and she's just unleashed a whole load of trouble…
Really Sucks For A Succubus
Lucy's chic suburban beauty salon has suddenly become the Underworld's center of mass chaos and destruction. The only good thing in a day going rapidly down the tubes is the arrival of a gorgeous demon who's adamant that he can help her…
But Lucy has quite a few deeply unpleasant—not to mention deadly and hateful—surprises ahead of her, and surely there's never been a worse time to try out a new boyfriend…
Here's your chance to win a copy of Demons Prefer Blondes
Sourcebooks has offered to give away 2 copies today
If you'd like to win leave a comment on this post with your email
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Winner TBA Next Wednesday
Sidney Ayers writes light paranormal and erotic romance. Her manuscripts have won or placed in the MORWA Gateway to the Best, the Valley of the Sun Hot Prospects, the Passionate Ink Stroke of Midnight, the Heart of Denver Molly, and the Finally a Bride contests. She lives in Michigan where she is working on the next book in the Demons Unleashed series, Demons Like it Hot—in stores December 2011. For more information, please visit http://www.sidneyayers.com/. 
June 7, 2011
Guest Blog and Hexes and Hemlines Giveaway with Juliet Blackwell
Thanks to Fang-tastic Books for having me on the site today!
Okay, I'll admit it: I write about vintage clothes –at least in part-- because the research is so fun! I get to spend a lot of time hanging out in the Haight neighborhood of San Francisco, checking out the secondhand shops, sipping coffee, and people-watching. ..and I get to call it "work". What's not great about that?
But seriously, I decided to give Lily Ivory, the gifted protagonist of my Witchcraft Mystery series, a special relationship to vintage clothing for two reasons: just as with old homes or antiques, there's an inherent mystery in items that generations of people have lived with, cared for, and loved. And to someone sensitive to psychic vibrations, there are often paranormal messages associated with such objects.
As a natural witch growing up in a small West Texas town, Lily learned not to trust people. Her father left when she was young; her mother couldn't handle her supernatural powers and sent her to live with her adoptive grandmother. When Lily was run out of town at the age of seventeen, she began to search the globe for a safe place to settle down. In the meantime, she avoided friendship because of her fears… but as social animals we humans yearn for engagement, for connection with other people. Lily found this connection through her ability to read sensations, vibrations, and history from clothing: the older the better.
The ability to hold something in one's hands and sense something about its past is called
psychometry (literally: "to measure the soul of the thing") The basic belief is that there is a link created when a person lives with an object; a signature or aura that settles deep within the atoms of the object. For those with the gift of psychometry, reading this retained memory is straightforward: much as a bloodhound picks up on a person's unique scent, a sensitive can feel vibrations of those who have worn things close to themselves.
When I started writing a mystery with a powerful witch as a protagonist, I came up against a few issues right away. First: what kind of a witch? There are all sorts of witches, from nature-loving pagans to African healers to the European broom-riding witches of lore. Second, if my witch was naturally powerful, why wouldn't she just use her supernatural abilities to "see" who the criminal was and solve the mystery?
I'm fascinated by the close connection between what we refer to as "folk healing" and magic, so I gave Lily knowledge of traditional healing methods, botanicals, and the ability to brew potions and cast spells. Her powers were passed down as a mixture of European and Mexican witchcraft, which she inherited and learned from her father and adoptive grandmother, respectively. But she can't "scry", which means to see the future or past in crystal balls or black mirrors. That way, as an author I could put her in more difficult circumstances, gleaning what information she can from her powers of psychometry, with a special emphasis on clothes.
We all know that feeling of standing up straighter, holding yourself differently when you're dressed up for a wedding or important ceremony. When you "change" – putting on different clothes -- you often change in more than the obvious ways. You might feel like a different person – sometimes that's a bad thing, but often it's a plus. As the owner of a vintage clothing store, Lily can help her customers find outfits that suit them not only physically, but psychically. A rare talent, indeed (one I wish I possessed!)
And if those antique silks and satins have anything to say about a murder that occurred-- ancient or contemporary—Lily Ivory will be there to figure out the link.
Author Biography
Nationally bestselling author Juliet Blackwell writes the Witchcraft Mystery series (Secondhand Spirits, A Cast-off Coven, and the new Hexes and Hemlines). If Walls Could Talk launched the Haunted Home Renovation series in 2010; Dead Bolt, the second in the series, comes out in December. As one-half of the sister duo dubbed Hailey Lind, Blackwell wrote the Art Lover's Mystery Series--including Agatha-nominated Feint of Art and the most recent, Arsenic and Old Paint. A former anthropologist and social worker, Juliet has worked in Mexico, Spain, Cuba, Italy, the Philippines, and France, and now paints and writes in Oakland, California. She served two terms as president of NorCal Sisters in Crime
Visit me on Twitter (@JulietBlackwell) and on Facebook
Or drop by my website, at www.julietblackwell.net
Hexes and Hemlines
#3 of the Witchcraft Mystery Series
Coming June 7th!
With her vintage clothing store taking off, Lily Ivory is finding that life in San Francisco suits her just fine. But her ability to sense vibrations from the past, so useful in locating secondhand gems, has landed her in the middle of a new mystery...
Lily gets called away from Aunt Cora's Closet when the police need a witch's take on a strange case. Malachi Zazi was stabbed to death in his apartment, under a ladder, surrounded by the number thirteen, a broken mirror, and a black cat—superstitions that the victim, as head of a rationalist society, was devoted to discrediting.
When the police identify a suspect from the Serpentarian Society, Lily is shocked to learn it's someone she knows. But with bad luck plaguing all its members, she begins to wonder if there's more at work than mere coincidence. And while there aren't many clues from the crime scene, Lily finds evidence of dark witchcraft and a hex on her friend's doorstep. With her friend's safety at stake, Lily is determined to use magic to find the murderer before everyone's luck runs out...
Read an excerpt here.
Would you like to win a print copy of Hexes and Hemlines?
Penguin has offered to give one copy to one lucky reader
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A Review of Hexes and Hemlines by Juliet Blackwell
Hexes and Hemlines
#3 of the Witchcraft Mystery Series
Coming June 7th!
With her vintage clothing store taking off, Lily Ivory is finding that life in San Francisco suits her just fine. But her ability to sense vibrations from the past, so useful in locating secondhand gems, has landed her in the middle of a new mystery...
Lily gets called away from Aunt Cora's Closet when the police need a witch's take on a strange case. Malachi Zazi was stabbed to death in his apartment, under a ladder, surrounded by the number thirteen, a broken mirror, and a black cat—superstitions that the victim, as head of a rationalist society, was devoted to discrediting.
When the police identify a suspect from the Serpentarian Society, Lily is shocked to learn it's someone she knows. But with bad luck plaguing all its members, she begins to wonder if there's more at work than mere coincidence. And while there aren't many clues from the crime scene, Lily finds evidence of dark witchcraft and a hex on her friend's doorstep. With her friend's safety at stake, Lily is determined to use magic to find the murderer before everyone's luck runs out..
My Review:
I stumbled on this series by accident awhile back when I was searching for another book- and I can't say that I'm disappointed- not at all. This is a fun and totally engrossing series that hooks you instantly and makes you want more.
I love the mix of vintage clothes, magic and a lingering possibility of romance combined with mystery. It has a little bit of everything I love.
If you love Annette Blair's Vintage Magic series you'll love Juliet Blackwell's Witchcraft Mysteries.
This is the third book in the series, the first two are Secondhand Spirits and A Cast of Coven. I do recommend reading the first two books so you'll know who the cast of characters are in this book and how they are relate to one another.
I love (and kinda hate- but only because I want to know more) that each character is a mystery as well.
Lily is mystery herself. We learn a little more about her in each book but her unhappy and strange past is only hinted at. Finally in this third book we learn a bit more about her childhood and what happened but the big story about her father still remains a mystery as well as parts of her strange upbringing.
Other characters are strange too- Aidan Rhodes and Sailor are both intriguing male characters that I want- no need- to know more about. :-) The mystery that surrounds them will draw you in and make you want more even as you get frustrated because the information isn't coming fast enough. And all the possible love interests will drive you crazy with wonder trying to figure out exactly who she might end up with- if any.
Max, he's ok but totally human and can't really accept Lily for who and what she is.
Aidan knows exactly what she is, possibly more so than she does. But what is the deal with him? How old is he? How powerful is he? What happened to him in the past that made him the way he is now? What lies under all his glamour and magic? What does he want from Lily?
Then there's Sailor, a very enigmatic character even with all his grumpiness. I sense there could possibly be something or maybe the possibility of something brewing in thew future between him and Lily.
Each book drops hints, gives us flashes of info, then stops. It's like following a trail of breadcrumbs into a locked door and you just have to wait until someone either unlocks the door or gives you the key- which will surely be what happens in future books of this series.
The series is definitely worth the read though, especially if you like ongoing mysteries that don't get all wrapped up in a bow at the end of every book. Sure the main mystery gets solved- like who killed who but the stories swirling around each character remain shadowed making you want to know more- which will keep you buying and reading the next book in the series.
Winner Wednesday
The Vampire Who Loved Me Winner is
Beckyand if you missed the rant and raves
about what stupid people have to say about
romance novels then you have got to check out the comments on this spot
The Karma and Melodies winner is
Tanya1224
Karen Chance's
Hunt the Moon winner is
Lorelei
Eternal Hearts print winner is angie lilly
and the book winner is Loony Linh
and the box of summer reading books winner is
Amanda from Novel Addiction
June 6, 2011
Hunting Human Character Interview with Author Amanda E Alvarez
Author: Amanda E. Alvarez
On sale date: Mar 28, 2011
Category: Paranormal Romance, Shifters
eISBN: 9781426891434
Description
For two years, Beth Williams has run from the past, and the beast that dwells inside her. She is haunted by memories of being kidnapped and the savage attack that killed her best friend. Now Beth finally thinks she's ready to move on...with Braden Edwards, a charming, irresistibly sexy man who tempts Beth to embrace the present.
But the past lurks closer than Beth realizes. Markko Bolvek, one of the werewolves who kidnapped her, has tracked her to Portland, Oregon, his pursuit fueled by a hunger for vengeance. Only Braden, a werewolf himself, senses the danger shadowing her steps. The Edwards and Bolveks have been enemies for centuries—and despite the instant connection he feels with Beth, Braden isn't sure which side of the war she's on.
With suspicion at odds with their attraction, Beth and Braden must learn to trust one another to stop Markko for good. Can Beth accept the wolf within—and love a man who embodies everything she fears?
84,100 words Carina Press Read an Excerpt
Hi Everyone! As an author, I'm always getting questions about my characters. What they are like, who they are, how they act, etc. So I thought it might be fun if I conducted a series of interviews with the main and primary supporting characters from my recent release, Hunting Human. If you've already read the book, hopefully these interviews will be fun and interesting. If you haven't read the book yet, hopefully the interviews will pique your interest.
My first interview was with my heroine, Beth Williams, and can be found HERE.
My second interview is with my hero, Braden Edwards.
I've kept the questions the same so as to give a parallel look into the characters thoughts and backgrounds.
Q: Hi Braden! Please describe yourself in a few words.
A: Solid, loyal and normal.
Q: What is one of your happiest moments?
A: Labor Day, the year I shifted for the first time. Most of the summer had been really uncomfortable, we were adjusting to Chase and he was adjusting to us. But that Labor Day was the best. My dad had been grilling all afternoon, steaks the size of your head. Caleb and I kept arguing about who got the bigger one and right as my mom served them up, Chase snatched the largest one up. We got to shoving, then shifting and finally chasing. Mom turned the hose on all of us. But it was the first time Chase had ever initiated anything with us. It was a turning point and a good day.
Q: What has been the defining moment/decision in your life to date?
A: The decision to go away to college. I'd always planned to attend of course, and like most kids, I couldn't wait for that taste of freedom. A lot of that changed when Chase came to live with us. It took us a long time, but Caleb, Chase and I got really close. And as the decision to go away to college got closer and closer, I started to have second thoughts. It would be the first time I'd be alone on the full moons. The first time I wouldn't be able to goof around with my brothers. But I did, eventually, decide to go. And that was good too – it allowed my brothers to grow up and allowed us to redefine our relationship some.
Q: Can you tell us a few of your strengths and a few of your weaknesses?
A: I value my family. I'm the oldest of four kids and my parents really pushed the idea that we're a unit. That we succeed and fail together. We're all really close and we all work to stay that way. But having said that, my parents also raised me to be independent, so as I mentioned before, I'm not afraid to make my own decisions and walk my own path. I think that's a strength. As to weaknesses… I have to admit I've got a bit of a temper. And I sometimes – okay, more than sometimes – jump to conclusions. Trust is really important to me so if I feel that my trust has been broken, I can snap before I assess. I'm working on it.
I know that you're a werewolf, how about a few questions about that part of your life?
Q: How old were you became a werewolf?
A: Typically in my family the bite is passed down on our sixteenth birthday. But when Chase came to stay with us my father gave me the option of turning a year early. I learned to manage the shift in the summer between my freshman and sophomore year of high school.
Q: When you shifted for the first time, what went through your head?
A: I honestly don't remember it was so long ago. I think for me, it was like the first time your dad tosses you the car keys. You remember the yearning to drive – or in my case shift – and you vaguely remember the excitement. But I don't remember much beyond that.
Q: What is the best thing about being a werewolf?
A: The extra senses are amazing. Food tastes better, mountain air smells cleaner. Fart wars with your brothers are a lot more fun. Sorry, Mom. And we do tend to be more athletic. Our metabolisms run higher and exercise comes more naturally. I do tend to get really restless if I don't hit the gym regularly but I think a lot of people feel like that regardless. It's such a normal part of my everyday life; it's hard to give you a best thing.
Q: What is the worst thing about being a werewolf?
A: I was raised with it, so it never really bothered me. It's normal. So normal in fact that sometimes I forget that it's not just another muscle, another skill. I forget that most people can't relate. That part's hard. Most people have secrets, and I think everyone wonders what would happen if people found out. But for us, it's just different. Dating for instance is complicated. At what point in a relationship is appropriate to tell someone you occasionally shift into a wolf? You constantly have to balance being realistic with acknowledging that you may freak someone out bad enough that they'll run and never look back.
How about a couple of quick, fun questions to get us back on a lighter note?
Q: What is your favorite color and why?
A: Green. I spent a lot of time in the woods as a teen, goofing around with my brothers and my father. When we hunt, and I'm running full out, the surrounding forest starts to blur into this one, deep patch of green. The color always manages to make me feel relaxed and energetic at the same time.
Q: Favorite food?
A: Red meat is always on the menu in my house. Steaks on the grill, cold beer and the game on the tube… perfect afternoon.
Q: Movies or theater?
A: Movies. I really can't sit still long enough to enjoy the theater.
About the Author:
Amanda was born and raised in Texas - and due to an unfortunate three year stint in Michigan - doesn't plan to ever live anywhere where flip-flops and sweatshirts don't constitute winter attire. Often audacious and adventurous, she tends to find herself in a slew of dangerous (and hilarious!) predicaments (law school and fighting raccoons in dumpsters) and thankfully has many friends ready to lend aid (while they laugh.)
When not lawyering, writing, or thinking about going to the gym Amanda is often caught sampling local cupcake offerings and planning to someday co-open an evil bakery and sell dastardly desserts. She currently lives in Dallas, Texas with one regular-sized cat and one jumbo-sized cat, and can be seen writing in public places frequented by hot guys (strictly for research purposes, of course!) with her friends and fellow writers Killer Cupcake and Pantherista(names omitted to protect the not-so-innocent).
You can find Amanda: On Facebook, On Twitter, On the Web
