Winner Wednesay September 30

Veronica is the winner of Evie Byrne's Damned by Blood

And heatherzilla is the winner of Dracula: The Un-Dead

Congrats !

A Review of Larceny and Lace by Annette Blair

Five Fangs for Larceny and Lace by Annette Blair

Annette Blair's whimsical and witty writing style is true magic on the page. She never disappoints.

Madeira Cutler is back in Larceny and Lace the second book in Vintage Magic Mysteries. She's preparing to open her new vintage clothing store, which is an old renovated morgue/mortuary, when an old bag of bones is found in the old storage room then stolen from the place while the playhouse next door is burned down-and the owner killed.

It's another complicated murder case that Maddie finds herself wrapped up in. And the vintage clothes are speaking to her again as her powers keep developing. But how is it all tied together? The bones, the murder (both past and present) and Maddie's shop.

Maddie gets duped, banged up and knocked down but in the end it all makes sense as everything comes together for a clear picture.

It's a fast paced read you will not want to put down until the book is done and then you'll be left longing for more.

I love that the mystery has just a hint of romance in it. Will she end up with Werner or will Nick end up playing a stronger roll in upcoming books?

Detective Werner, the guy Maddie dubbed the wiener back in third grade) is always hot on Maddie's heels catching her in precarious situations and often saving her butt from more disastrous outcomes.

But Maddie's on again, off again boy toy Nick is hardly ever around since he's busy being a hot shot FBI guy.

Honestly I hope Maddie and Werner end up together, it's so obvious they have a thing for each other even if Maddie can only realize it unconsciously. He's there and into her while Nick is never around-in Maddie's life or the book. That has to be some serious foreshadowing there that the love interest doesn't even get much ink in the books.

I love Blair's use of words and the way she blends magic and vintage clothing into the stories like they are characters themselves, especially the clothes. I really like that even if I don't know jack about fashion, vintage or otherwise. It just adds another element, another layer to the story cake that makes it that much more interesting.

I fell in love with Blair's writing when I found her accidental and triplet witch trilogies, such sexy works. This new series with it's blend of magic and mystery really has me hooked. I can't wait to read more Vintage Magic Mysteries.

Monday Musings September 28

Another Monday is upon us. Yay. I say that in the most sarcastic of tones.

It's a cold, stormy day here in Michigan and I think the weather is playing with my mood. Plus there's not enough caffeine in my body yet and I didn't sleep good last night or the previous three nights. I go through these phases where I don't sleep well and I guess I am in one now. I hope it passes soon because my nerves are about shot.

Anyway I am not thinking too clearly so my random Monday Musings are truly a bunch of ramblings today. I don't really have a whole lot of news or interesting tidbits to share today.

My weekend was OK, caught up on all the new episodes of shows that started last week-House, CSI, Grey's, Smallville, and all those. I can't say I am overly thrilled with any. Grey's was good. Smallville, while I love drooling over Tom Welling, didn't thrill me at all. I am not liking where they've been taking Smallville, I just continue watching to drool over Tom (my dream man made flesh, he's just sooo beautiful)

And I'm still undecided on Vampire Diaries. I watch because it's vampires but I am not "into" it, you know. After the first episode Being Human hooked me, Vampire Diaries not so much. I find it all a little too cliched. We'll see where it goes.

I am reading a fab book, Larceny and Lace by Annette Blair. I really love Annette Blair's books, so witty and fun. Quick reads you do not want to put down. I had to pry it out of my own hands last night to go to bed. The way I tossed and turned I would have been better off finishing the book instead of trying to sleep. Oh well.

This week at Fang-tastic Books Kiki Howell will be guest blogging on Thursday and on Friday-another awesome giveaway for Free Book Friday where I might just be giving away more than one book to kick off a spooktacular October.

Hopefully my usual glee over October will soon be upon me because I am an Autumn child and I love October and have loads planned for a scare-tastic month.

Right now though...just not feeling it. :-(

Off to refill my giant coffee mug. Maybe I really need this Blood Energy Potion.

Preview of The League by Sherrilyn Kenyon

New from St. Martin's Press is #1 New York Times bestselling author, Sherrilyn Kenyon's 3-book series, 'The League'! With over 19 million books in print, Sherrilyn Kenyon is renowned the world over as "the reigning queen of the paranormal genre that she pioneered long before the world had heard of Twilight." Fans (also lovingly known as 'Kenyon's Minions') are at the edge of their seats in anticipation for this thrilling new series. The first book from 'the League' series, 'Born of Night', will be available September 29th.

Want a preview of what's to come?

You can read the first 9 Chapters of Born of Night for free just click here or here.

Want to know more about Sherrilyn Kenyon and her books?

http://www.livetheleague.com/
http://www.sherrilynkenyon.com/
http://www.officialsanctuary.com/

Check out the book trailer for Born of Night!

Free Book Friday: Dracula: The Un-Dead

I've got something special for Free Book Friday this week.

The book is DRACULA THE UN-DEAD, and it’s the sequel to Bram Stoker’s original classic DRACULA written by Bram Stoker’s great-grandnephew, Dacre Stoker and screenwriter Ian Holt

At last--the sequel to Bram Stoker's classic novel Dracula, written by his direct descendant and a Dracula historian

Bram Stoker's Dracula is the prototypical horror novel, an inspiration for the world's seemingly limitless fascination with vampires. Though many have tried to replicate Stoker's horror classic- in books, television shows, and movies-only the 1931 Bela Lugosi film bore the Stoker family's support.

Until now.

Dracula The Un-Dead is a bone-chilling sequel based on Bram Stoker's own handwritten notes for characters and plot threads excised from the original edition.

Dracula The Un-Dead begins in 1912, twenty-five years after Dracula "crumbled into dust." Van Helsing's protégé, Dr. Jack Seward, is now a disgraced morphine addict obsessed with stamping out evil across Europe. Meanwhile, an unknowing Quincey Harker, the grown son of Jonathan and Mina, leaves law school for the London stage, only to stumble upon the troubled production of "Dracula," directed and produced by Bram Stoker himself.

The play plunges Quincey into the world of his parents' terrible secrets, but before he can confront them he experiences evil in a way he had never imagined. One by one, the band of heroes that defeated Dracula a quarter-century ago is being hunted down. Could it be that Dracula somehow survived their attack and is seeking revenge? Or is their another force at work whose relentless purpose is to destroy anything and anyone associated with Dracula?

Dracula The Un-Dead is deeply researched, rich in character, thrills and scares, and lovingly crafted as both an extension and celebration of one of the most classic popular novels in literature.

For your chance to win a copy before they are even available in stores leave a comment on this post. One lucky winner will win.

Leave email contact info. US shipping only please.

Good luck a winner will be announced next Winner Wednesday.

Plan A: Marry Her, Plan B: Kill Her- Guest Blog and Giveaway with Evie Byrne

Hello! I'm happy to be back at Fang-tastic Books. Thanks for having me, Roxanne.

I'm here to talk about my new release, Damned by Blood and to give away a free copy.

What kind of woman would carve her initial into a man’s chest? What kind of a man would tattoo that wound to make it permanent?

Meet Alya Adad and Mikhail Faustin, the darkest, most reckless characters I’ve ever written. On their twisted, blood-soaked path to love, they break every rule in the book, write a few rules of their own, and break those, too.

For those of you who have been following the Faustin Brothers series, get ready to plunge into the shadow world of the vampires, a world that was only hinted at it in the first two books.

Mikhail Faustin is the prince of New York. His authority is absolute, his power unquestioned—and his heart is empty. The pain he carries inside leaves him with nothing to offer a mate. When he discovers that Alya Adad is not only his destined bride but also the source of his misery, his fate is sealed. He must either kill or claim the woman he despises most--or die trying.

Alya is the most powerful of her kind born in generations and a prince in her own right. She kneels to no one, certainly not to her first lover, Mikhail. She plans to kill him before he captures her, but when she realizes she holds the key to his heart, and all his secret desires, things become a more complicated...

I've been here before, talking about my Faustin Brother series--a trilogy of e-books from Samhain. The premise of the series is deceptively simple. Each brother has a book, and during the course of the book, he must win his bride. To do so, though, he -- and his bride -- are tested to their limits. Everyone has to earn their right to love in Evie Byrne's world. Muhahaha.

In the other two books, the couples begin as strangers. Also, in those books both of the heroines are humans, while their suitors are vampires. This provides conflict too, but more the fun kind of "gettin' to know you" kind of conflict. In Damned by Blood, both characters are vamps, powerful, territorial vamps. And they know each other--they have a history. A very bad history. Bring on the angst!


Going against the grain is scary!

As you might be able to infer from the blurbage, I wrote myself into a pickle with this book. When it began, I imagined it to be a more traditional "capture" type story-- i.e. a big sexy Alpha wins his woman by force. Mikhail sets out to get Alya, intending to either capture her or kill her. He's armed with a magical rope that will bind her to his will.

The problem is, Alya would rather die than submit. She and Mikhail fight tooth and nail, but neither of them comes out on top. To find a happily-ever-after for them, I had to think sideways, and figure out a way for both of them to win.

I've already got my first review. Jane at Dear Author gave Damned by Blood an A-, calling it "fresh and fabulous." It's an excellent review. (Yes, I admit I'm biased!) But seriously, Jane gives an excellent rundown of how this power dynamic works, without giving away too much of the plot.

She praises me for not declawing Alya. I was relieved, because I worried that leaving her claws would make her unlikeable--one of the worst things a romance heroine can be. And though I personally thought the decisions Mikhail makes to win her showed his inner strength, some readers might think him weak for it. The jury is out. I'm waiting to hear every one's opinion.

Why don't you read it and let me know? I'm giving away a copy of Damned by Blood, all you have to do is leave a comment below.

Tell me what you dislike in a hero or heroine. Do you have different expectations for vampire than humans?

What is sure to make you throw a book against the wall?

The winner will be chosen by random draw. Please note that Damned by Blood is an e-book.

Here's a little taste to tempt you. This excerpt is from the beginning of the book, where Mikhail pays an unexpected visit to Alya's office.

***

Mikhail Faustin. She hadn’t seen him since he was younger than Matthew and Maya. She glanced their way, admiring their supple, slender bodies and their flawless skin, her mouth quirking into a smile. She and Mikhail had been very young indeed.

It seemed like there should be a law against killing your first lover, though considering their history, Mikhail probably wouldn’t mind driving a spike through her head. She wondered exactly how much he hated her.

Dominick paced, checking his weapons as he did.

Alya kicked off her heels and put her feet up on the desk, all the while keeping one eye on the front office monitor. “I hope security remembers to use plenty of lube. Did you get some of that knyaz lube I asked you to stock for distinguished visitors?”

Dominick scowled at her. This would be his first face to face with a genuine Faustin, and it had him all riled up.

Maya spoke through a yawn. “Is the Iceman as gorgeous as they say?”

Alya shrugged. Iceman, Ice, Frost—these were all street names for Mikhail. He must have changed a lot over the years, because when he was young, he ran as hot as any man she’d ever met. Even his pale blue eyes burned like the heart of a flame.

Mikhail walked into the front office that moment. The security camera caught him from a high angle, showing her a sleek animal in a severe black suit. Her chair hit the ground with a thump as she leaned close to the monitor.

Rapt, she chewed on the side of her thumb while she watched him speak to her secretary, marking all the ways he’d grown up. He was taller, broader through the shoulders, and the sweet lines of his face had turned austere and sharp as a blade. His straight, platinum hair brushed his collar. That hadn’t changed. She remembered his hair well, how it slid through her hands, heavy and fine.

As she’d heard, he did absolutely nothing to hide his vampirism anymore. Some vamps could pass naturally. Others made adjustments in order to pass. For instance, she wore contacts and sunglasses when she went out, and she did her best to move slowly, like a human. If you knew what to look for, it was easy to spot a vampire in any crowd, but no one would ever mistake Mikhail for human.

The power he held as his family’s leader shimmered around him like a second skin. He made a beautiful prince. Once upon a time she could not resist the draw of that power, but she wouldn’t pay the price for it anymore. Princes demanded absolute submission from those around them, especially their lovers. Now that she was a prince herself, she submitted to no one—not on the street, not in the council chamber and never, ever in the bedroom. She’d done her time on her knees. She had no intention of kneeling ever again.

Tapping Mikhail’s image on the screen with her fingernail, she murmured, “Very pretty. Too bad I’m going to have to kill you.”

He chose that moment to look up, directly into the camera. Straight into her eyes. Alya snatched her hand from the screen.

Her assistant buzzed. “Ms. Adad? Mr. Faustin and Mr. Silver are here.”

Mikhail continued to stare into the camera lens. She could not shake the feeling that he was tracking her with his uncanny eyes. Alya turned off the monitor, annoyed that he could rattle her with a trick like that. She checked her knives and leaned back in her chair. “Send them in.”

When Mikhail walked through the door the curtains stirred and the air temperature dropped. In a glance he took in every detail of the room, just as she would, memorizing the layout, cataloging the feeders, Dominick, and hanging Frank, and tucking that information away for future use.

Alya stood to greet him. She sampled his power, letting it brush over her skin before shaking it off with a shiver, like a cat that’s been stroked backward.

Their eyes locked and held without the camera as intermediary. She’d not been challenged so directly for a long time.

For the briefest moment, she glimpsed him as the angelic boy he’d been, kissing her with a smile. Was that really him? Had that girl been her? Some version of them, maybe. An incarnation on another plane. Butterflies filled her stomach, a visceral memory of how he’d once thrilled her. She hardened herself against the unsettling feeling. Sentimentality was a dangerous luxury.

“Knyaz,” she said, inclining her head without lowering her eyes. She used the title he’d be known by among his own people.

“Knyaginya,” he said, his gaze level, his hands folded in front of him, his expression that of a church saint. His use of the feminine honorific made her smile. It was quite an ugly mouthful. And properly, she should be knyaz too. She was no one’s princess.

“To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?”

Mikhail gestured to his lawyer. Alya had forgotten the man even existed, but he’d been standing there at Mikhail’s left shoulder all along, grey and unobtrusive. He stepped forward with a letter sealed with black wax and dropped it on the table.

“Ms. Adad, I’ve come to testify that this sworn affidavit from Natalia Faustin is certified as genuine prophecy by the Council of Mothers.”

What in the hell did that mean? Now she’d have to call in her lawyers to find out. She didn’t touch the letter.

Mikhail pulled back his coat sleeve, revealing a strange bracelet—no, rather a slender black rope coiling up his arm. She hissed as she recognized the magic crawling over it. How had security let that by?

Shit. Hoping against hope, she pushed her panic button with her toe. Dominick raised a brow at her. She made a subtle “wait” signal with one finger.

“Alya Adad, I declare you mine by right of dream, bound to me by fate and blood—”

And then she understood. He hadn’t come to kill her, he’d come to marry her.

***

Read excerpts from the series at Samhain, and visit my website for more excerpts, reviews and author’s notes.

A Review of Tall, Dark, and Fangsome by Michelle Rowen

Poor Sarah hasn't exactly had the time of her (undead) life since becoming a vampire but she isn't ready to give up yet either even when cursed into being a nightwalker and blackmailed into helping the leader of the vampire hunters, Gideon Chase, and even forced into breaking it off with her master vampire boyfriend, Thierry- at least that's what they want everyone to think.

After a while Sarah begins to feel like they really are broken up, especially when people start eyeing Thierry making out with other women and show Sarah the photos.

Yeah, fun, fun, fun.

But Sarah and Thierry are determined to find a way to break the curse, defeat the bad guy and get back together. Too bad everyone and everything seems to be against that idea.

Things just don't seem to get any better as one after another people in Sarah's life seem to be turning against her and Gideon Chase is always one step ahead of her, he knows where she goes and who she goes with. He's got everything planned and won't let Sarah get away with anything.

It looks like Sarah is going to be doomed into being a nightwalker for the rest of her undead existence and be without the vamp she loves-though to make things even more complicated Sarah's inner nightwalker seems to have a thing for Gideon. Hello? Complicated anyone?

Tall, Dark and Fangsome is a supernatural thrill ride full of twists and turns, ups and downs and quite a few bumps along the way to what will hopefully end with a happily ever after. The way the story goes though you'll be guessing right up until the very end. It could seriously go either way.

You'll love it.

The only thing you won't like is saying goodbye to another fang-tastic vampire series. This is the final book in Michelle Rowen's Immortality Bites series.

Winner Wednesday

As predicted this week is busy and on top of everything now I have a head cold added into the mix. So while trying to do a hundred things at once I am struggling to think through what feels like marshmallow fluff alternating with slimy goo inside my head.

Ooh what a pretty picture that makes. LOL.

Anyway thanks to the fluffy goo I am totally spaced out and I almost forgot today was Wednesday.

So without further ado I will announce the winner of The Spicy Bedtime Companion ....

and the winner is booklover0226 .

Congrats booklover0226 also known as Tracey. I'll be sending you an email shortly.

Now I am off to find some Dayquil or something that might clear the gunk in my head.

Monday Musing September 21

Monday, Monday, Monday...

Life is looking hectic this week. My calendar is full with appointments, back to school open houses, playgroups and other "fun".

Today is my birthday and I have to go renew my driver's license since I have been putting it off, and off...and way off. LOL. I hate going to government run business buildings, moments of my life get sucked away and I can't do anything about it.

Don't know what else is going on for the day. My mom hasn't even called me yet, that's a first. She usually calls me like right at midnight or right around the time I was born (12:42 AM). maybe she actually fell asleep early last night. Doubtful, that's where I get my night owl tendencies from. She was probably just busy.

Anyway I don't know how much I'll be posting this week since I have so much going on. However Evie Byrne will be back this week to discuss the third book in her Faustin Brothers Trilogy.

And I am busy writing guest posts and answering interview questions for all my stops along my ETERNAL DESIRE virtual book tour. It's a lot of work that hopefully pays off.

So sorry for the quick post today but time is tick, tick, ticking away.

Blog Tour for Eternal Desire

I am putting together a blog tour for my novella Eternal Desire which goes on sale October 7th.

So far I have a pretty good tour scheduled. I still have a few spots open if anyone would like to host me at their blog for an interview or guest post.

So far here's the schedule:

Ocotber 7th Guest Blog and Giveaway at Night Owl Romance Blog

Ocotber 8th Guest Blog at Mary Eason's Blog http://www.maryeason.blogspot.com/

October 12 Review of Eternal Desire will be up at Authors by Authors and an interview with me will be posted on the 14th there as well

October 13 Eternal Desire promo day at VampChix, also offering a giveaway

October 13 Guest blog at Ashley Madden's Bibliophiles ‘R’ Us http://www.nightdweller20.wordpress.com/

October 14 and 15 Book Party, Signed Print Giveaway and Interview at Nights of Passion http://www.nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/

October 16 Guest Blog at http://www.morbid-romantic.net/

October 19 Guest Blog and Giveaway at Sci Fi Guy. I'll be giving away a free pdf download of Eternal Desire along with a Fang-tastic Books desk set-mousepad, notepad and pen

October 21 Guest Blog at http://www.valeriejpatterson.wordpress.com/

October 22 Interview with me at Shapeshifter Seductions

October 23 Interview with me at Vampire Phile

October 26 Week long Eternal Desire/Roxanne Rhoads event at The Write at Home Mom

I also have a few unconfirmed dates and appearances but so far I still have plenty of days open if anyone would like to participate email me at eroticroxanne @ yahoo . com (take out spaces)

I plan to have more giveaways. I am waiting until I finalize my schedule and see how many stops I have so I can figure out what can be given away where.

I would like to push the tour through the end of October and perhaps end with a bag on Halloween.

Of course I might save the final spot and giveaway for Fang-tastic Books which would be fitting.

Free Book Friday: The Spicy Bedtime Companion

For this week's Free Book Friday giveaway I have a copy of The Spicy Bedtime Companion by Joan Elizabeth Lloyd which contains over 30 sizzling little tales of erotica that are fun, flirty and just a bit naughty.

If you would like a copy of this fun and just a little bit smutty collection of short erotic stories then leave a comment with your email. US shipping only.

Thanks and good luck.

Wanna Join Bite Club?

So you all know I am one of the VampChix at VampChix.blogspot.com right?

Well the VampChix have teamed up to create something new.

Since we all share a common vein here at Fang-tastic Books and VampChix- we love our vampires- I want to invite you all to join Bite Club.

What's Bite Club?

Bite Club is a monthly vampire romance book club and created by the members of VampChix.

The first featured book is: The Mammoth Book of Vampire Romance 2

The rules are simple:

First rule of Bite Club, tell everyone about Bite Club.

Second rule of Bite Club, don't bleed on the freakin’ carpet!

Here's how it works:

Each month we will feature a new vampire romance title, beginning with an author spotlight. Everyone gets a few weeks to read the book and then we meet to discuss our favorite characters, plot lines, settings, hot scenes, world building etc. etc.

The blog will be open all month long for those who want to chat books, but spoilers will not be permitted until discussion day unless clearly marked. If you have a scene that jumps out and really grabs you by the neck, let's talk about it, but for those who choose to remain in the dark, spoilers can be skipped.

When our club meets we can discuss any aspect of the book that appeals to us, and who knows?

Maybe the author(s) will drop in to talk too!

Where to find us: vampchixreadbooks.blogspot.com

First bite: The Mammoth Book of Vampire Romance 2

First chat: October 30th

So if you want to join come on over to VampChixReadBooks.blogspot.com and join in on the fun.

Reupload Book Video

Due to a spelling error in my book video I had to delete the first upload, edit it then reupload so now the Eternal Desire book video is freshly edited and ready to be viewed...again.

Winner Wednesday

Estella and cait045 are the winners of Terry Spear's contest for two books each

Ashley L is Dawne' Domnique's winner of a pdf of Eden's Hell

and ddurance is the winner of Z.E.O: A Zombie's Guide to Getting A (Head) in Business by Scott Kenemore

Congrats everyone. Enjoy your books.

A Peek into the Writing World of Dawné Dominique

A Peek into the Writing World of Dawné Dominique
&

Win an eBook copy of Eden’s Hell

Roxanne, thank you so much for having me at Fang-tastic Books.

My name is Dawné Dominique, and I’m an erotic, paranormal, fantasy author, a managing editor for two publishers, and a cover artist for several more. Let’s just say I juggle these careers rather precariously. My mind is still intact (I think) so that’s something. : )

Roxanne has invited me to talk about my newest paranormal release, Eden’s Hell, which is book one to a five part series called The First. Although Diary of Daniella Rolfe had initiated the series a little over four years ago, that all changed when I began writing Eden’s Hell.

In creating this series, one facet remained constant; my characters needed to be different. Vampiric in nature, yes, but with unique traits. Any author will agree that in order to make your characters believable, readers must be able to relate to them. Herein was the challenge: to create a race of vampires that come from different generations, down different bloodlines, yet somehow intertwine with several intriguing subplots and one major plot. Not an easy task, but I do love a challenge.

Eden’s Hell is my account of how and why vampires came into existence. The story begins in 1988, in California, and introduces Addison Eden, Satrina Vacher, and an innocent woman, Eva Carr. There is certainly no love lost between Addison and Satrina, and as ex-spouses, they put a whole new twist on ugly divorces that do last for all eternity.

I based the story on the biblical version of Adam and Lillith, (his first wife). Unwillingly dragged into the middle of them, Eva Carr turns not only Addison and Satrina’s world upside down, but she sets the entire Vampire Creed in an uproar, and one that may have dire consequences in the future.

The ending, I’m told, has rendered a few readers to tears, but I promise it doesn’t end on an unhappy note.

Eden’s Hell will be followed by Dark Diary (to be rereleased July 2010), then Kindred Blood and Crimson Crises. These three novels introduce a new set of characters, as well as a prince of the vilkacis race (werewolf). The final novel, Nightstalker, introduces a young Texan vamp by the name of Zane Black, who, believe it or not, is a successful erotic author writing under a woman’s penname.

If you’re looking for a unique vampire tale that includes heartfelt angst, erotic interludes, love lost and found, lust, blood, and adventure, Eden’s Hell is a journey I urge you to take.

It’s available for download at
http://www.purplesword.com/ and http://www.allromanceebooks.com/

To learn more about me and the many “other” hats I wear, please visit me at:

http://www.dawnedominique.com/
http://www.myspace.com/dawnebooks
http://dawnedominique.blogspot.com/


Visit my publishers:

http://www.purplesword.com/
http://www.loveyoudivine.com/
http://amirapress.com/

BEST PART

To win a PDF copy of Eden’s Hell, just send me your name and the correct answer to this question. My granddaughter, Madison, will pick a random winner
from all the correct entries received:

When Eve tempted Adam to eat from the forbidden tree,

what fruit was it?

Email me your answer to: dawne_dominique@yahoo.ca
[dawne (underscore) dominique (at) yahoo (dot) ca]

Roxanne, thank you once again.

I'm On YouTube and My Book Video is Done

OK, my book video is nothing fancy but it's my first and it is finished, mainly because I was just sick of playing with it.

I have a couple new programs I haven't started playing with yet and I certainly haven't even mastered the one I just used so this is a basic trailer but I suppose it will do for now. Just rememeber to cut me some slack becasue this is my very first attempt at doing this.

Perhaps once I figure out all the technology at my fingertips I can create soemthing a little fancier, plus I have high speed now so I can actually download music and photos and watch other people's stuff on you tube.

And speaking of YouTube I am now on it and so is my book video, please drop by and rate my video, friend me, favorite me or whatever people do on YouTube.

Thanks.

Here's my You Tube page and below that is my video. If the video doesn't load go to YouTube.

Monday Musings September 14

So it was a rough weekend, full of stress but I did get some good news. Just a little though, enough to offer a slimmer of light to guide me through the darkness.

I was so stressed I didn't get much writing done so instead I zoned out with TV. My brain hurt too much to think and TV is a great mind number.

Guess what I found? A marathon of old Wolf Lake tv shows on Chiller. I watched nine episodes, I wonder if that's all there was? I remember catching a few episodes back in 2001 and wondering what happened to the show.

Paranormal just didn't do good back then. I bet a show like that would rock now especially seeing it's in the same Seattle area/setting that Twilight is in plus it's werewolves. And the dark brooding eyebrow guy from the new Vampire Diaries was in it.

I now think he must really be a vampire because in the 8 or 9 years since the show he still looks the same and still plays a teenager, of course now in the Vampire Diaries he's an immortal teenager, in Wolf Lake he was the brooding bad boy son of the pack's Alpha. Talk about typecast. I've seen this guy as a werewolf, a Nephelim, and now a vampire. Must be the eyebrows that get him cast as non-human. :-)

Anyway, Wolf Lake was a pretty good show I would have liked to see where they were going with the storyline.

I see Chiller is playing some other television shows that were short lived. I am going to have to check them out.

OK, so onto other things. Dawne Domique will be here tomorrow discussing her new vampire book Eden's Hell.

Last week's contests are still open so make sure to get your name in the comments section before winners are picked tomorrow for Free Book Friday and the Terry Spear contest. Good luck.

A Review of Speak of the Devil by Jenna Black

.25

Jenna Black can write some seriously sexy books. Bad ass demons that can be scary, sexy, alluring and sometimes complete pains not to mention pouty. That cracks me up demons that can be pissy and pouty. Too funny.

Anyway the fourth book in the Morgan Kingsley series has someone making her life miserable and she doesn't know why. She has no job because the exorcism board has suspended her license and now she's being sued for the wrongful death of a man whose demon she exorcised-then on top of all that she's accused of murdering the lawyer who was suing her. Then to make everything so much worse, Brian breaks up with her.

So Morgan is in a bad way, Lugh is worried about her and himself but whenever he takes over Morgan ends up violently ill.

Things just keep getting worse and no one knows why.

It's a quick read that will make you want more. The Morgan Kingsley series is sooo sexy. I just wish some of the demons were more- straight. It's hard to lust after a guy who is lusting after other guys-not my thing. The books are still sexy though.

BTW, This book cleared up some about demon bodies and reproduction-that was helpful. I was left wondering about all that after the last book.

I can't wait for the next one to come out in the spring.

(Sorry if this review rambles or doesn't make sense, I am dealing with a migraine from hell yet still trying to concentrate, this might be the only thing that gets typed today :-)

Free Book Friday Z.E.O: A Zombie's Guide to Getting A (Head) in Business

First of all, sorry for being slow today getting this post up. I am so tired and worn out I feel like I am nursing a hangover or something even though I couldn't even tell you the last time I had a drink. I think it's called being over worked and way over stressed.

Anyway, I hooked up my new high speed, think it's working right, woo hoo! No more dial up.

So, who watched the Vampire Diaries last night? You bet I did. Can't say I'm "hooked" yet but I'll keep watching. It seems promising.

OK now onto what you've all been waiting for- Free Book Friday.

To keep up with last week's zombie theme, this week we have yet anther fun, tongue in cheek book about living like a zombie.

Z.E.O A Zombie's Guide to Getting A (Head) in Business by Scott Kenemore

Blurb:

From professional athletes like Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan to philosophers like Confucius, inspirational business books love to suggest that readers can succeed in business and in life by adopting the traits of their famous subjects.

In Z.E.O. by Scott Kenemore, frustrated employees will finally find inspiration in a source they can already relate to: zombies! A guide for any Joe-lunchbox or aspiring-C.E.O., Z.E.O. illustrates how the lessons learned from zombies and zombie films can be applied—from the typing-pool to the boardroom—to further a professional career, increase personal and corporate wealth, and harness the tools to personal success.

Taking up where other business and personal finance books leave off, Z.E.O. provides nuts-and-bolts instructions for taking the inspirational aspects of zombies and adopting them to maximize your own personal effectiveness.

Sure, you might have to knock a few heads—and eat a few brains—along the way, but that doesn’t stop a zombie. Why should it stop you?

Hilarious, this book is a great laugh for anyone, but all you zombie lovers out there will appreciate the humor all the more and devour this book with happy abandon.

So if you want your chance to win just leave a comment on this post. Make sure to leave your email info. US shipping only.

Welcome Guest Author C.L. Talmadge

Once again I would like to welcome C.L.Talmadge to Fang-tastic Books. This time we are a stop on her virutal book tour to celebrate the release of, Outcast, book 4 in The Green Stone of Healing series.

Power: Men versus Women

By C.L. Talmadge

To understand the dynamic of men’s power versus women’s power, think of the former as action and the latter as attraction. Another way to look at it is doing versus being. The yang and the yin. The light and the dark. The electric and the magnetic. The push and the pull.

The two forms of power complement each other, but this male-dominated world considers only the male/push form as legitimate. Female/pull power is derided as seduction or temptation, when it really is the basis for the experiences and people we all attract into our lives.

In other words, to act, we use the electric energy of the mental-spiritual half of self. To attract, we use the magnetic energy of the emotional-physical parts of our being. One side of self cannot do or be without the other, yet we venerate and elevate the mental-spiritual (the masculine) at the expense of the emotional-physical (the feminine).

We also need to understand what we mean by energy here. The energy we speak of is the energy of consciousness—of thoughts, feelings, beliefs—known as the aura in metaphysical terms. This consciousness-aura energy is called kura in the Green Stone of Healing® speculative epic. Whatever the name, this energy is the essence of who we are. Even our physical bodies are energy in a form that we are capable of perceiving with our physical eyes. Other names for this energy are chi or prana.

So where does romance fit into this gender-power equation? Interestingly, romance is where the two kinds of energies, masculine and feminine, collide and mingle. That’s what makes romance so compelling and essential, especially to women. During a romance, a woman finally elicits emotional attention from a man who otherwise would ignore his feelings about her or anyone else (himself included) to focus his energies on action, like competition, in business, sports, or elsewhere.

Men absolutely hate it that they are not immune to women’s attracting power. This is one of the fascinating dynamics of romance. But they cannot escape this attracting power because they also possess it, although not to the degree that women do, unless the man is gay or bisexual.

Moralizing aside, one of the reasons a non-hetero sexual orientation is so threatening to straight men is the extra degree to which attracting (feminine) energy is present in the aura of non-hetero males. Lesbians and bisexual women also possess a greater extent of push/male energy than straight females. This is not as threatening to straight men because they are familiar with this kind of energy and regard it as best anyway.

To be female in this world has long been associated with powerlessness. Nothing could be further from the truth. Attracting energy is extremely powerful, but can also be misused easily and degenerate into manipulation.

The Green Stone of Healing® saga explores how women’s power is the missing link for true healing at all levels of self and in the world. It also examines how women’s greatest challenge is to accept their own attracting nature as legitimate power and wield it to sustain their personal autonomy, and improve their own lives and the lives of those they love.


C.L. Talmadge is the author of the Green Stone of Healing® speculative epic. The fourth in the series, Outcast, will be published Oct. 1.

Vote for the first book, The Vision, through Sept. 25 and get a free e-book on healing, love, and spirituality. Details at her blog: www.healingstonebooks.com/stonescribe

The series features four generations of strong-willed female characters who inherit a mysterious green gem ultimately revealed to mend broken bones and broken hearts, protect against missiles, and render its wearers undetectable.

For more information about each book, please visit http://www.greenstoneofhealing.com/

C.L. will be giving away an autographed set of the first three books in the series to one randomly drawn commenter from the tour as well as the tour host with the most comments, excluding duplicates or her responses.

So please leave a comment so you have a chance to win a whole set of these books-autographed by the author.

A Review Strange Brew edited by P.N. Elrod

Five Fangs for Strange Brew

Summary (from the book jacket)

Today’s hottest urban fantasy authors come together in this delicious brew that crackles and boils over with tales of powerful witches and dark magic!

In Charlaine Harris’ “Bacon,” a beautiful vampire joins forces with a witch from an ancient line to find out who killed her beloved husband. In “Seeing Eye” by Patricia Briggs, a blind witch helps sexy werewolf Tom Franklin find his missing brother—and helps him in more ways than either of them ever suspected. And in Jim Butcher’s “Last Call,” wizard Harry Dresden takes on the darkest of dark powers—the ones who dare to mess with this favourite beer.

For anyone who’s ever wondered what lies beyond the limits of reality, who’s imagined the secret spaces where witches wield fearsome magic, come and drink deep. Let yourself fall under the spell of this bewitching collection!

This anthology contains nine stories:

Seeing Eye by Patricia Briggs
Last Cal by Jim Butcher
Death Warmed Over by Rachel Caine
Vegas Odds by Karen Chance
Hecate’s Golden Eye by P.N. Elrod
Bacon by Charlaine Harris
Signatures of the Dead by Faith Hunter
Ginger: A Nocturne City Story by Caitlin Kittredge
Dark Sins by Jenna Maclaine

This is a fang-tastic collection of short stories by some of the hottest authors in paranormal and urban fantasy.

I, of course, started this collection by flipping to the very last story first to read Jenna Maclaine's "Dark Sins". This story is set between her first and second novels and fills in the blanks as to what happened in between. This story is alluded to quite a bit in the second book and I am so glad I finally got to find out exactly what she was talking about. Great story.

After I finished that I started from the beginning of the book and read every single story. Wow. Now I have to grab these authors books. Caitlin Kitteridge's Nocturne City books are so on my to-read list and Jim Butcher's books too. And Charlaine Harris has been on my to-read list (I know, I know how could I have not read her books yet, I blame the library they never have them in, in order) Anyway, Charlaine has a seriously wicked and dark sense of humor that I now officially love. If the Sookie Stackhouse books are like this story I have got to read them.

The other stories are pretty good, too. I am not going to go over every single detail today, though I did read them- I am just too tired to type all that. Sorry hope you forgive me.

This was a great collection to spend a couple days reading. I love short story collections like this because I can get a feel for a writer's voice, what their novels might be like plus occasioanlly I like a qucik read that doesn't require a major investment. Short stories allow me to finish them in one sitting and move on to something else. Sometimes I like that.

Winner Wednesday September 9, 2009

Woo Hoo! Today is 09/09/09 which is supposed to be a very lucky day because of the triple nines.

Nines are considered to be very lucky in most cultures and to numerologists.

With Wiccans everything is threefold so nines fall within that range as well.

So I am hoping this amazing event holds good luck for me because I've been having a bad run for awhile now but even if it doesn't hold great luck for me, it holds some luck for my winners today.

I happen to have 3 lucky winners (see again with the multiples of three) today:


Meljprincess is the winner of a copy of Barely Bewitched by Kimberly Frost

Ruth Schaller is the winner of The Zen of Zombie

Amy is the winner of a signed copy of Michelle Rowen's Tall, Dark, and Fangsome

Congrats ladies, hope you enjoy your books. I'll have two of those mailed out probably by the end of the week (I'll try but can't promise anything:-) and Michelle will be mailing out Amy's copy.

And let's hope with all the good vibes I'm sending out some come back to me.

Guest Blog with Author Terry Spear and Book Giveaway

The Bite of the Wolf

By Terry Spear

Thanks so much, Roxanne, for having me at Fang-tastic Books today!

From when I was a teen, I was drawn to the dark side of the seductive embrace of the vampire, and have written several vampire romances. But werewolves also had their draw—the man who loved a woman, but had this darker side to him. He shapeshifted during the light of the full moon. Vampires can shapeshift also, and in my books, their preferred form is…the wolf.

So what allure does the wolf have? They have bite, too. :) You know—those killer canines that can end the bad guy’s life. I’m definitely not an advocate of werewolves and vampires running around with guns shooting each other. Leave that to the cop shows or westerns. The teeth are what make the man. :)

And just like the vampire’s bite, a werewolf can make a human one of his kind. In my stories, it runs the gamut of mistakes, to fights, to sexy bites. So yep, the bite is all important in the werewolf world also.

In my vampire stories, they also do a little bit of sword play. An extension of their, ahem, masculinity. And on occasion a werewolf uses silver bullets, but this is just not acceptable.

But why werewolves? Mine, which you can read about in my newest release, To Tempt the Wolf, are not monster-like creatures when they shift, but beautiful wolves who have a human’s conscience. I admit, though, that sometimes that wolfish side takes over when they’re on a hunt. Particularly when the prey is a sexy woman they have their sights set on. And when they’re human, they have their wolf senses, but also wolf instincts. It’s been fun creating a world where so many reviewers comment that the world feels so real, that werewolves could very likely live among us.

Just think, that hunk of a car mechanic who gives you a sexy wink when you’re at your wits end because your car isn’t running, again, could be a werewolf in disguise. Not only does he repair cars, but he cooks meals—steaks a little on the rare side—is protective and possessive, but man, when he makes a commitment, it’s forever.

So if you’re looking for a read a little on the wild side, check out my wolf series and see how a hunk of a werewolf can make for a sizzling hot romantic.

Ready for a giveaway?

Readers have the chance to win- 2 sets of 2 books, that means there will be 2 winners!

Each of the two winners will receive a copy of : Heart of the Wolf and To Tempt the Wolf.

US and Canada addresses only. Just leave a comment answering this question-

What do you think? Can a “wolf” of a man capture your heart?

Thanks again, Roxanne, and to all your readers, good luck with the contest!

You can find me here if you want to join me:

http://www.terryspear.com/
http://twitter.com/TerrySpear
http://www.facebook.com/terry.spear
http://www.myspace.com/terryspear
http://www.terry-spear.blogspot.com/
http://casablancaauthors.blogspot.com/
http://www.wickedlyromantic.blogspot.com/

http://shapeshifterromance.wordpress.com/

Terry Spear
“Giving new meaning to the term alpha male.”


To Tempt the Wolf, In stores September 1, 2009

In this third in the series, wildlife photographer Tessa Anderson must prove her brother innocent of murder charges. But when she discovers a gorgeous naked man barely alive on her beach, she's got a new world of troubles to deal with, not least of which is how he affects her with just a look, a touch, or a whispered word.

Hunter Greymore is a lupus garou, a grey werewolf. Hoping to keep a low profile at Tessa's cabin on the coast, he's drawn into her life—and into her bed. His animal instincts war with his human half, but in the end, the only thing he can do about this fascinating, adorable woman is to leave her forever —unless she becomes one of them.

About the Author

A retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, award-winning author Terry Spear has an MBA from Monmouth College. An eclectic writer, she dabbles in the paranormal as well as writing historical and true life stories for both teen and adult audiences. Spear lives in Crawford, Texas. Her 2008 Sourcebooks Casablanca release, Heart of the Wolf was named a Best Book of the Year by Publishers Weekly. Destiny of the Wolf and To Tempt the Wolf are in stores now, and more are on the way: The Legend of the White Wolf (February 2010) and Seduction of the Wolf (August 2010). For more information please visit www.terryspear.com or http://twitter.com/TerrySpear!

A Review of To Tempt the Wolf by Terry Spear

In this third in the series, wildlife photographer Tessa Anderson must prove her brother innocent of murder charges. But when she discovers a gorgeous naked man barely alive on her beach, she's got a new world of troubles to deal with, not least of which is how he affects her with just a look, a touch, or a whispered word.

Hunter Greymore is a lupus garou, a grey werewolf. Hoping to keep a low profile at Tessa's cabin on the coast, he's drawn into her life—and into her bed. His animal instincts war with his human half, but in the end, the only thing he can do about this fascinating, adorable woman is to leave her forever —unless she becomes one of them.

I love werewolves, they are up there on my favorite supernatural creatures list right under vampires- and I'm not even a dog person (LOL) but there's something about wolves that I just adore and combining a hot man with the instincts and animalistic sexual energy of a wolf...so hot!

So I couldn't wait to read the third instalment in Terry Spear's werewolf series To Tempt the Wolf.

Hunter is a dark and sizzling alpha male hero that you are going to long for and Tessa is a strong female heroine that you can relate to: conflicted, troubled, and ready to do anything she can to help her brother prove his innocence.

This is a quick read, a page turning story that will pull you in and won't let you go until you finally reach the last page. A pure delight to read.

The world is complex and believable (great werewolf storyline and authenticity) with secret undercurrents and troubling side characters that all blend together seamlessly while the main characters shine on the page. The chemistry between Hunter and Tessa is dynamic.

Throughout the story they have to deal with Tessa's brother's murder charge, a forest fire, Hunter losing part of his memory and being injured and needing to rediscover his past while Tessa investigates her brother's murder charge..all while being hopelessly attracted to each other with heat that makes the pages smoke.

It is a suspense filled plot full of sizzling romance.

Want to Know More About Terry Spear and To Tempt the Wolf? Then check out all the stops on her blog tour.

Here's the To Tempt the Wolf Virtual Book Tour Schedule, Drop by these sites for fun guest blogs, interviews and more to celebrate the release of Terry's newest book.

Terry will be dropping by Fang-tastic Books on Tuesday September 8th.

August 31—Rhi Reading http://rhireading.blogspot.com/

September 2—The Review from Here/Scribe Vibe http://scribevibe.blogspot.com/

September 3—Yankee Romance Reviewers http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

September 4—Horror and Fantasy Book Review http://horrorandfantasybookreview.blogspot.com/

September 7—Love Romance Passion http://www.loveromancepassion.com/

September 8—Fang-tastic Books http://fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com/

September 9—Books and Needlepont http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com/

September 10—A Journey of Books http://ajourneyofbooks.blogspot.com/

September 14—Morbid Romantic http://www.morbid-romantic.net/

September 17—Romance Reader at Heart’s Novel Thoughts Blog http://novelthoughts.wordpress.com/

A Review of What Legends Are Made Of By Heather Beck

BLURB

What Legends Are Made Of is a collection of short stories that range within the genres of romance, horror, and fantasy. Each story takes the reader into a realistic world where unbelievable events occur. Have you ever experienced a story filled with so much suspense, terror, and romance that you couldn’t get it out of your mind? Be prepared to feel all of these emotions because author Heather Beck is about to take you on a journey that you won’t soon forget.

You’re personally invited to tour the halls of Sir Tristan’s Estate, a place where ghosts roam freely and fill your dreams at night. Following your stay at the estate, you’ll cruise on the Blue Oceana, a perfect ship for sightseeing. With patience and a careful eye you might see the merman that lives in the crystal clear ocean. If you enjoyed watching the odd ocean creature while aboard the ship, you’ll love Frank Stanford’s Freak Show. There you’ll see a unicorn with wings and a talking tree.

However, it’s the freak show’s horrifying main attraction that shocks everyone who sees it. If you can stop shaking after your encounter with freaky Frank, continue on to Karyn and Max Shield’s Costume and Magic Shop; just be careful of what you purchase there since the merchandise at the Shield’s shop is perhaps too realistic. Some stories make your heart soar, while others make you scream aloud; these stories will make you do both. They’ll leave you spellbound and yearning for more.

Ready to find out what real legends are made of? Turn the page…

REVIEW BY MICHELE R.

Title: What Legends Are Made Of - Anthology
Category: Paranormal
Reviewer: Michele R.
Reviewer Email: Deseng@crown.net
Author: Heather Beck
Publisher: Romance Divine
Release Date: 2008
ISBN Number: 978-1-93446-29-4
Author Homepage: http://www.heatherbeck.tripod.com
Rating: 4 Fangs
Format: E-BOOK

SIR TRISTAN’S ESTATE is an intriguing blend of ghosts, mystery, a glint of romance and surprises. When Skye Huntington, an intrepid photographer, is consigned to a photography job on Sir Trenton Estate, she doesn’t realize that she is in for more than she bargained for. She is introduced to Tom Dove, her tourist guide and history expert, after arriving at the estate by taxi. Things aren’t as they seem as Skye is lured further into the depths of the history behind Sir Trenton and his estate. Tom Dove is a very enchanting host and Skye is taken with him. The tale propels the reader along as the mystery unfolds in a deceptive way with an unsuspecting twist.

BLUE WATER is a delightful story of romance, paranormal suspense and good friends that takes place on the beautiful shores of Hawaii. Mandy Landon, a beautiful brunette, secretly has a crush on Ed, her best friend, Lucy Curran’s brother. A disastrous dinner at the Curran family’s home one night leads to Ed apologizing to Mandy at her abode the next day. Ed asks her to help him out on a boat tour since his sister is unavailable to work the following day due to his father’s sudden illness. Mandy accepts the surprise invitation with eager anticipation to work closely with him. Hidden desires simmer below the surface between Mandy and Ed as they work side by side. When Ed takes Mandy on a boat cruise on his family’s expensive yacht the next day, something very strange happens. What lurks in the waters below in the beautiful blue ocean of Hawaii?

FREAKY FRANK is a quick story of a bizarre carnival where a very unassuming romance blossoms. Brittany Addams loses her job at a day care center. She takes on a job at the local carnival to tide her over until she finds a better job. She is hired to work in the educational tent with Mr. Watson. On her first day, she meets an extraordinarily handsome man named Frank. He runs a freak show at the carnival. An immediate attraction blooms between the two of them. When Mr. Watson forces himself upon Brittany, Frank comes to her rescue. Does Frank reveal his carnival tent to Brittany? What important decisions will Brittany face?

ONE STOP HORROR SHOP is a creepy, riveting tale with a few surprises up its sleeve. Karyn and Max Shield have always wanted to own a magic shop. When Quentin, owner of Quentin’s Costume and Magic Shop, makes an offer to the Shield’s to buy his store, they accept. As soon as the contract is signed between both parties, Quentin immediately crumples and falls to the floor. He lies in a semi-frozen state. Karyn, Max and the two lawyers are very concerned about him and contact 911. He is whisked away in an ambulance and rushed to the hospital. The Shields delay the opening of their store out of respect towards Mr. Quentin. While organizing the shop they are startled to find a skeleton in a closet. Karyn, squeamish at first, decides upon displaying it in the front window in the hopes of attracting customers but Max isn’t wild about the idea. They finally open their new shop and receive customers on their first day. What bizarre things happen with the magic tricks that are purchased? Does it involve the creepy looking skeleton?

Heather Beck’s e-book, WHAT LEGENDS ARE MADE OF, is an intriguing blend of short stories designed to startle, astonish, making the reader ponder the outcome of the story. I found one of the stories to be charming also, especially BLUE WATER. Ms. Beck’s brisk, edgy writing style is definitely entertaining. I enjoyed how she sprinkled romance in a few places in the tales. The characters are quirky, witty and sassy with a ‘bent’ view of the world. The uniquely unusual characters and the engaging plots will have you hooked!

A Review of Laced with Magic by Barbara Bretton

.5
Four Point Five Fangs for Laced with Magic


Barbara Bretton take us back to Sugar Maple, Vermont in Laced with Magic the follow up to Casting Spells.

Luke and Chloe are doing good, so good he's even moved in with her and seems to be dealing well with the magical mishaps and townspeople, too bad some of them aren't too thrilled with him.

Then things go downhill quickly when Chloe announces Luke is going to be the permanent chief of police at a town meeting, before discussing it with him. Then his ex-wife shows up and drops a bombshell - she's been seeing and talking to their dead daughter Steffie-a daughter Chloe knew nothing about.

To really make things bad- Steffie's spirit is being held hostage by Isadora, the crazy Fae leader that Chloe banished to another realm. Isadora's hell bent on taking Sugar Maple to the other side and away from all humanity, but that will put many of the town folk in jeopardy but there are some who agree with her and are making Chloe and Luke's life miserable.

Bretton has woven (or should I say knitted) another engaging tale of magic versus humanity in an intriguing story I couldn't put down.

I hope Chloe and Luke can work things out and that Sugar Maple will be safe from Isadora but the book ends with a real cliffhanger that leaves you wondering "What now?"

It was strange to read the story from three different points of view. I am used to just one or two but to be inside the head of Chloe, Luke and Luke's ex Karen left me a little confused sometimes but it was nice being able to get the story from all angles.

It's interesting to see how preconceived notions based on appearances can really effect our judgement of people. Just because someone is beautiful doesn't mean life is easy. Chloe and Karen are complete opposites but both think the other is prettier, more womanly, etc yet in the end they are quite similar and see that no one has a charmed life-even if they have magic. I love how Bretton worked that into the story- that we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, or a person by how they look.

I also love her knitting references though I had to look some things up because I know NOTHING about knitting it makes the story new and fun learning about knitting terms and how into it some people are.

Laced with Magic will pull you right back into Sugar Maple and leave you rooting for Chloe and Luke.

All I want to know is: when's the next book going to be out?

Free Book Friday: The Zen of Zombie, Better Living Through the Undead

Do you struggle out of bed each morning and sway lifelessly across the room, mouth agape, arms hanging slack, murmuring unintelligibly? Well, take heart: you’re not alone! But these other staggering, limp, perpetually drowsy folks just happen to be zombies—and it turns out they can teach us a lot about enjoying life. And only here, between the covers of this book, will you learn their secrets to happiness. Learn how to slow down and move at your own pace, become your own boss, and just devour those irritating people who get in your way. And there’s more, because zombies can offer no-nonsense advice on love, playing to your strengths, and on becoming more adaptable.

Here's a hilarious book that explores how to have a better life by acting like a zombie. Too funny. I read throught he book for some laughs, it's humor you have to read to believe but it'll make your day. Especially if you are a zombie fan.

Zombies are the new in thing I guess. Not my cup of tea (I am a diehard vamp loving girl with a second place werewolf crush followed by a close third demon lover obession) but I suppose I can see some the appeal. Zombies don't think too much and they're all about action.

Plus they love girls with brains... too bad their only interest is the brains-as in they'll be enjoying how good they taste.

The Zen of Zombie: Better Living Through the Undead by Scott Kenmore, published by SkyHorse Publishing is this week's Free Book Friday Giveaway Book.

If you would like a chance to have this fun book as part of your undead, zombie lovers collection just leave a comment telling me what you think about zombies.

Make sure to leave contact info. US shipping only.

Interview with Michelle Rowen & Tall, Dark and Fangsome Giveaway

Today we have the talented and busy author, Michelle Rowen ,with us for an interview and a giveaway of her newest book Tall, Dark and Fangsome.

Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us at Fang-tastic Books today.

You are a busy writer, you've had a lot of new releases this year and more to come. Tell us a little about Tall, Dark and Fangsome the 5th and final book in your Immortality Bites series.

Tall, Dark & Fangsome pretty much takes everything that has come into play in the first four books of this series and brings it all to a fang-filled head. Sarah’s nightwalker curse, the one that has turned her into a sun-fearing evil-esque vamp, is dealt with (although I won’t say what the outcome is!); Gideon Chase, the leader of the vampire hunters, is blackmailing her to turn him into a super-vamp with her very special blood; the Red Devil, a vigilante vampire, has officially come out of retirement; and two characters from earlier books come out to lend a hand. And there is that pesky fact that the man Sarah’s in love with is in a 600-year-old marriage of convenience with a wife who refuses to sign the annulment papers. Of all the damn nerve!! Nothing is easy for Sarah, that’s for sure. It is amusing to me to torture her so. *evil laugh*

What was the inspiration for your fun characters in the Immortality Bites series? I loved that these characters were not the stereotypical vamps. Poor Sarah has just never had the greatest time being a vamp with everything going wrong all the time and it looks like the final book may have her dealing with more than ever.

My original inspiration for Sarah was Bridget Jones, back during the heyday of chick-lit. I loved that snarky girl-next-door character and thought how much fun it would be to turn her into a blood-drinking vampire. I was very influenced by Joss Whedon’s fine mix of comedy and drama as well. Sarah’s sense of humor comes from yours truly. Her looks come from Sandra Bullock, circa While You Were Sleeping. Thierry pretty much appeared out of nowhere, but started off as a bit of a parody of (or ode to) those angsty, guilt-ridden vampires that always seem to appear in vamp books and movies. Luckily, he did take on a life of his own and I was able to reach down into him and find his many layers. Not sure he appreciated that much, though. ;) I wanted to play with vampire myths, most of which aren’t even all that accurate -- Dracula was a daywalker. My vamps can go out during the day and they aren’t undead, since they still have heartbeats and normal body temperature. Later books made me want to mix it up even more, so I created “nightwalkers,” who are an ancient undead, sun-fearing vampire (now extinct) that gave modern-day vamps their bad and frequently unjustified reputation.

Are you going to miss writing about Sarah and Thierry?

I already do! They’ve been a huge part of my life for five plus years and I’m sorry to see the end of them. However, I am excited about my new projects and characters. It helps a little bit with the mourning.

I see you have a YA book coming out in October, Demon Princess: Reign or Shine. Can you tell us a little about this book?

It’s about a sixteen year old girl who is surprised to learn that her father (whom she’s never met) is a demon king in another dimension called the Shadowlands. This, of course, makes her a demon princess and heir to his throne who’s about to start manifesting some demonic powers she needs to keep secret as she deals with this life-changing news. Her father sends a super-cute messenger/bodyguard named Michael to help her out and he has some mighty big secrets of his own. It’s a whole lot of fun. :) The first book is out in October and the second book, Reign Check, is out next May!

Do you have to switch modes and watch yourself when you write YA so you don't put in too much adult humor or sexual scenes? Is it hard switching back and forth between genres?

I wrote the second book in my Demon Princess series right after I wrote my first Harlequin Blaze, and I have to say.... no, I had no problem whatsoever switching between the two. It all comes down to character for me. It’s not the writing that makes the book sexy or adult, it’s the characters and their decisions and, well, needs. So when I’m writing my teen characters, I’m not dealing with Blaze or adult paranormal situations. My voice trends tamer to start with so it’s all working out quite nicely so far (I think!)

Congrats on the newest of your book deals. I am looking forward to Nightshade, when is the expected release date for it?

Thank you! I’m very excited about it. Nightshade and its sequel will be a fast-paced supernatural vampire thriller, more in-tone with the novel, Countdown, I wrote as Michelle Maddox. I have no firm release dates for these, but they will likely be out in 2011.

So why the new name, Rachel Connor?

Because these books have a much different, edgier feel than my Michelle Rowen light paranormals and I use the F-word a lot. ;) I’m not using the Michelle Maddox name (it’s been retired) since it’s not sci-fi or futuristic. Rachel Connor will write edgy, sexy, dangerous urban fantasy. At least, that’s the goal!

I've always been curious as to why some authors add new pen names for new genres and/or publishers, does the publishing company own rights to your name so when you switch to a new publisher you have to switch names or is it just to keep your genres separate?

No, the publisher does not own the rights to my pen names. They are all mine. However, in book contracts there is sometimes something called a “non-compete” clause, which states you cannot publish a similar book with a different publisher usually within six months or so of each other. If a writer is particularly prolific, they will want to ax that clause (if they can) or take on a new pen name to help get their books out there a bit more often. It is also very useful if you’re writing strikingly different books or want to “start fresh” with a new audience.

I see that you have written under the names Michelle Maddox, Michelle Rowen and now Rachel Connor. Do you ever get confused when doing a signing or event and have to think about which name you are working under? Ever sign the wrong name in a book?

And none of them are even my real life name! Well, except for the Michelle part. Michelle Rowen is my most natural signature and only in the very beginning did I mistakenly sign my real name in a book because I was distracted. Now I sign Michelle Maddox and that M in the last name is not an easy thing to remember. There are a few books that end up signed as “Michelle Rowen aka: Michelle Maddox” because I wrote the wrong name. My pen automatically wants to go for that R. However, Michelle Maddox has been retired after one book so I only have to deal with two pen names. Rachel Connor will be a whole new ball of wax, but I won’t have to worry about that for a while, LOL. I am so used to being called Michelle Rowen that it has fully become my name in dealings with everything to do with writing. It helps that I have multiple personalities to deal with this issue. ;)

Thank you for joining us today. I look forward to reading Tall, Dark and Fangsome and all of your other upcoming releases.

Thank you so much for having me, Roxanne!!

I'd like to offer a copy of Tall, Dark and Fangsome to one commentor.

This is open to everyone, Michelle is offering international shipping so all those in the UK and everywhere else that get left out of so many contests (sorry) here at FB this is your chance to win a fab book. Just leave a comment and you'll be entered to win.