Finished Reading “Nightshade’s Bite” and Book Convention Went Well

I got back from hot and sticky Georgia on Tuesday. Only to come back to hot and sticky Ohio. I’m beginning to think it’s hot and sticky EVERYWHERE!

I did okay at the convention. Better than last year. Thought I might sell more of Alien Desires than I did, but a lot of people seemed interested, so hopefully they’ll get the ebook later. After they’ve read the dozens of books they purchased from the other authors (the readers that attend are HUNGRY for books, I swear!!).

This was the last year of Literary Love Savannah. For at least four years. So the ending was a little bittersweet. I do enjoy this convention and seeing the readers and other authors. But it can be expensive, too, so the break will probably be good for my pocketbook. If I’m smart (and I rarely am), I’ll have LOTS of new books to sell if the convention comes back.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 16

Dates read: July 4-18, 2025
Title: Nightshade’s Bite
Year of publication: 2021
Author: Zoe Forward
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series:  Blood Wars #2
# of Pages: 256
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased from B&N
Blurb from Goodreads: Kiera Rossard’s secret life just got complicated. When not being a vampire aristocrat she’s leader of the Nightshade League, a rebel vampire society that rescues werewolves during the interspecies war. Everyone wants her dead—vampires and the werewolves who don’t know her secret. Starting with the wolf she just saved—Michael Durand, the most vicious killer of her kind in existence. Something about the notorious werewolf sets her blood on fire.
    She’s not good at resisting temptation. So what if vampires always bite when they’re turned on? And so what if one drop of his blood will kill her? What’s life without a little risk?
    Michael doesn’t like vampires. At all. But now he’s losing his mind over the dark desire Kiera stirs in him. He should plot her death. Only, she’s hot and mouthy. Staying near her a bit longer is irresistible. When unforgiving forces hone in on her secret identity, he must decide between duty to his people and protecting her. But if he stays, who will protect her from him?
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: It had been several years since I read the first book in the series. And there are only two. At least nothing was left hanging, so that’s good. I ran into some irritating grammatical errors, which made me downgrade my rating a bit. If this was an indie book, I probably would have forgiven them, but not from Entangled (the publisher). So yes, I guess I rate the publisher, too. But the story was enjoyable and if not for the book convention, probably would have finished it long before now.

After the book convention (in Savannah), Hubby and I went to Cumberland Island (National Park near the Florida border). I had never heard of the place, but Hubby is trying to visit all the National Parks, so I’m learning a lot about them now. The only reason I agreed to go to this island is because they had a van (which luckily had air conditioning) to take us up and down the island (it’s about 17 miles long). No way was I going to walk on the trails there. I didn’t realize the island had wild horses. All they do is graze (because the park doesn’t do anything to feed them), but they are wild (feral) and we were warned numerous times to not get near them. It was a long day on the island, but very interesting. If you ever get a chance to visit it, I recommend it.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Eternity Embraced” and an Award

So… Literary Love Savannah 2024 is over. My sales were lackluster again, but hey, I hooked up with some new readers and you really can’t put a price on that, right? They were so awesome, too. And this is why I keep coming back (and why I have already registered for next year’s convention).

The readers were so great, they actually gave me an award! Most Chill Author. Ain’t it pretty?? I think 5-6 awards were given out on the last night. Color me shocked that I even got picked for one!! They made my con, that’s for sure. Here’s a picture of it, too. Isn’t it cool? I got it displayed for EVERYONE to see.

And no, that’s not in the bathroom. Please!!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 21

Dates read: July 19-20, 20204
Title: Eternity Embraced
Year of publication: 2011
Author: Larissa Ione
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Demonica #3.5
# of Pages: 32
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Free from somewhere a long time ago
Blurb from Goodreads: Desire…
    Demon slayer Andrea Cole has always taken down the demons and vampires she hunts without mercy. But when a fellow slayer is captured and turned into a vampire by a sadistic monster, she must choose between loyalty to her family and the man she loves.
    Versus Instinct…
    Kaden Quinn has dedicated his life to slaying vampires, so when he is turned into one, his greatest nightmare comes to life. And when the woman he loves is thrown into a dungeon with him — as food — he must battle new instincts and old desires, and choose between his life, and hers.
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: I enjoyed this story. Don’t know why it took me so long to read it, except it was on my Nook and it was short? Yeah, that’s probably why. I will have to check out the rest of the series now. And no, I did not need to have read books 1-3 before picking this up. Completely self-contained. It was a good introduction for me to want to read more in this world, that’s for sure.

Weather in Savannah was brutal last week. In the 90s every day (with feel-like temps in the 100s). Storms every night (one night we lost power for about a minute). So humid, it was almost hard to breathe. I’m relishing the 80 degree temps and lower humidity at home. Almost feels cool outside!

So… I’m home and life is still not normal. Doctor appointments Tues, Wed, and Thurs. Oh wait, that IS normal. Guess I just better get back to work, huh?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Shadow Heart” and Life is Almost Back to Normal

I’m currently on my way to Savannah for a book convention (Literary Love Savannah). I’ve been going since 2019 (missed 2022) and I’m already registered for 2025. It’s the only convention I’ve been attending regularly because it’s fun. Last year was a little disappointing because I didn’t sell many books, but then I didn’t have a new release, either. I’m hoping for a better turnout this year. And if I get my butt in gear, I’ll have a new release for next year, too. **fingers crossed**

But once this convention is over on Sunday, and Hubby and I drive home, life will finally go back to normal. For awhile, anyway. I just need to get back into writing, and I’m hoping the normalcy will make that possible. What with the book release and the convention (as well as Hubby’s heart incident), not much has been normal recently. I need some normal.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 20

Dates read: July 5-16, 2024
Title: Shadow Heart
Year of publication: 2024
Author: Meg Gardiner
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Series: UNSUB #4
# of Pages: 331
Paper or plastic: Hard cover
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads: FBI Special Agent Caitlin Hendrix faces a case from nightmares.
    In a Tennessee prison, Efrem Judah Goode draws haunting portraits of women he claims he has killed. Around the country, desperate families of the missing seek answers in his eerie drawings. And on darkened back roads and New York City streets, a new killer poses duct-taped bodies at the sites of Goode’s murders.
    Two serial killers are locked in a twisted rivalry. To stop the brutal slayings, FBI profiler Caitlin Hendrix must unravel the connection between Goode and the Broken Heart Killer. Their warped competition destroys anyone in their path. Caught between a manipulative psychopath and a ruthless UNSUB, Caitlin has to dive into not one, but two dark and twisted minds. She will risk everything, plunging into the depths of their depraved clash to hunt down an unstoppable killer.
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: I love her books and this one was no exception. I didn’t expect the ending, either, so that’s good. If I wasn’t getting ready for a book convention, I would have probably read this quicker. But when you’re busy, you’re busy.  

It’s supposed to be in the 90s every day in Savannah while I’m there. Ugh. But I always enjoy visiting. It’s a neat city. Have you ever been?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Boy Overboard” and I’m Ready for Home

Another LLS (Literary Love Savannah) is about done. Well, done for me. All I have left to attend is the raffle basking drawing tomorrow morning and then Hubby and I will be on our way home. I’m ready to sleep in my own bed. And be where it’s a little cooler.

Now watch Dayton get hit with a heat wave. That would be my luck.

Sales weren’t what I’d hoped, but I think a lot of people who stopped by my table today will get an e-book. I hope, anyway.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 38

Dates read: July 20, 2023
Title: Boy Overboard
Year of publication: 2022
Author: Miski Harris
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Series: All American Boy Series
# of Pages: 91
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Won at LLS2023
Blurb from Book: Why must Fate insist on having the last word?
    Spoiled rich kid Riko Walker has spent the past year roaming the New England coast, working hard to maintain the rudderless image his father believes. Riko doesn’t need his father, or anybody else. Until a beating leaves him broken and alone in the middle of nowhere.
    Braxton Harper’s inner voice screams “don’t get involved!” when he finds a bloodied and beaten young man in a heap on the roadside. He’s gotten good at ignoring that voice, loading the stranger into his truck and promising a place to rest and heal.
    The Titanic-sized chip on Riko’s shoulder makes Braxton want to drop this ungrateful brat and be on his way. After all, no one handed Braxton anything in life. He’s worked hard for what little he has. If Riko doesn’t want help, why bother?
    Fate has no patience for their stubbornness, throwing the two together time after time. How can sparks fly between two so different men? And can they move past ugly beginnings to find their common ground?
My thoughts: Basically, this is about a spoiled brat who gets everything he doesn’t deserve. Might not have cared if there was any emotion to the story. Even the romance lacked tension. I was hoping to like this story before I handed it to my daughter. I’ll still hand it to her, but I’ll be curious to see how she likes it. Thank goodness it’s short.

I did buy some books at the convention today. One author was in the vampire party I was also hosting last night and her books sounded interesting, so I got the trilogy. Another author I had a meal with the other day wrote books I was sure my daughter would enjoy (she texted that she would), so I bought some of her books, too. And while I sold one copy of the Bitten by Love series and one copy of the Ghostly Encounter series (a total of 8 books) in preorders, I only sold one book at the convention. I shouldn’t let it get to me. I mean, I should be used to this by now. But still…it stings.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Savannah

I was going to post this while I was in Savannah, but having driven to the city on Tuesday, and arriving late in a heavy downpour, it kind of slipped my mind!

I had a great time at the Literary Love Savannah Summerween book convention. So much so, I didn’t get any reading or crocheting done! I also didn’t do too bad in the selling part, either. It was my best year since attending my first one in 2019.

I’m still debating on whether or not I’ll go next year, though. A lot depends on whether or not I’ll have heart surgery in March (the convention is held in July next year). It would also be nice if I had a new book out by then, too. I really need to get back to work on it!!

If you love books and always wanted to go to a book convention but were afraid of the crowds, this is a great one to start with. It’s on the small-side and everyone treats everyone like family there. It’s a great event. Next year’s theme is Book Life. You can join the Facebook group (HERE) for more information (no obligation to register).

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 40

Dates read: July 23-August 1, 2021
Title: Phantom Evil
Year of publication: 2011
Author: Heather Graham
Genre: Paranormal romantic suspense
Series: Krewe of Hunters #1
# of Pages: 360
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: Though haunted by the recent deaths of two teammates, Jackson Crow knows that the living commit the most heinous crimes.
    A police officer utilizing her paranormal intuition, Angela Hawkins already has her hands full of mystery and bloodshed.
    But one assignment calls to them too strongly to resist. In a historic mansion in New Orleans’s French Quarter, a senator’s wife falls to her death. Most think she jumped; some say she was pushed. And yet others believe she was beckoned by the ghostly spirits inhabiting the house—once the site of a serial killer’s grisly work.
    In this seemingly unsolvable case, only one thing is certain: whether supernatural or all too human, crimes of passion will cast Jackson and Angela into danger of losing their lives…and their immortal souls.
My thoughts: Okay, I can see me reading the rest of this series (which is currently up to book #35). But I think I want to finish her other series first (since this series does tie into the Harrison Investigation series). The romance is on the light side (if that matters to you), as this book is more mystery and suspense. I enjoyed it all.

So… I only have 10 books to read to reach my goal for this year. Awesome! How is your reading goal coming along? Do you have one? Why or why not?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update, LLS2021, and Surgery News

Do you miss attending book conventions? Are you ready to go to one again? Well, one is still open for registrations, and it’s not virtual! Literary Love Savannah 2021: Summerween is being held August 4-8, 2021 at the Savannah Marriott (right there on the river!). The convention is $200 (plus fees) and includes 5 meals, as well as parties, panels, and book signings. Rooms cost $167/night (get a friend to go with you and you can share a room). It’s quite a deal and tons of fun, that’s if you like to talk to readers and authors about books! Gotta hurry, though. Registration closes on the 25^th (and you’ll need to book the room, too, but won’t have to pay that until you arrive). Here’s the link: LiteraryLove Savannah 2021: Summerween Tickets, Wed, Aug 4, 2021 at 7:00 PM |Eventbrite

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #28

Dates read: May 10-16, 2021
Title: Lover Unveiled
Year of publication: 2021
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #19
# of Pages: 495
Paper or plastic: Hardback
How obtained: Borrowed from daughter who purchased new
Blurb from book: Sahvage has been living under the radar for centuries—and he has every intention of staying “dead and buried” But when a civilian female sucks him into her dangerous battle with an evil as ancient as time, his protective side overrides his common sense.
    Mae has lost everything, and desperation sets her on a collision course with fate. Determined to reverse a tragedy, she goes where mortals should fear to tread—and comes face-to-face with the Brotherhood’s new enemy. She also discovers a love she never expected to find with Sahvage, but there can be no future for them.
    Knowing they will part, the two band together to fight against what Mae unknowingly unleashed—as the Brotherhood closes in to reclaim one of their damned, and evil vows to destroy them all….
My thoughts: Another series I absolutely love. It’s like fuel for my muse. And it worked. I’m back at my own book. Yay!

I realized the other day that I failed to tell you the results of my last doctor appointment. Well… I’m having surgery on the 26^th to remove the tumor from my kidney. It’s situated in a way that the doctor believes she can remove it and save the kidney! I was happy to hear this news. I won’t know what kind of cancer it is until after surgery though. If it’s kidney cancer, I may be done (although I still have some other spots that need to be monitored) and can start planning the heart surgery (again). If it’s from my breast cancer (meaning it traveled to another organ), then I’ll probably need chemo. Let’s hope for the first, okay?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and I’m Self-Quarantining

Last Tuesday, Hubby and I drove to Savannah. We came home Sunday. Now we’re doing the self-quarantining thing. If all goes well, I’ll be able to go out again right around the time I’m supposed to have jury duty (provided the trial is a go). Perfect timing, huh?

But you’re probably wondering what I went to Savannah for. Well, I went to the Literary Love Book convention. There were about 100 of us, masks were required for EVERYTHING, and we did our best to keep our distance from one another. Of course, that wasn’t possible all the time, but that’s why we wore masks.

I had a good time. It was nice to interact with people (authors and readers) again. I’m hoping all the safety measures that we took were enough. I’d hate to think they weren’t. I may never go to another convention if that’s the case.

Frankly, I’m more afraid of attending jury duty than I was attending the convention. I just can’t see how I’ll be able to social distance in a court room, and I can’t imagine the room is all that big, either. So I’m crossing my fingers that the trial is cancelled or postponed.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #29

Dates read: July 20-31
Title: Fallen
Year of publication: 2019
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: Romantic suspense
Series: Deep Ops #3
# of Pages: 347
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book:. A talented hacker who got caught, Brigid Banaghan is now forced to work with a secret Deep Ops unit. But she won’t reveal any more to these renegade Feds than she has to. Especially not to Raider Tanaka, her control freak of a bodyguard and handler. It’s enough that his body is tensed for action and his heated gaze is always on her…
    Raider knows there’s more to his new assignment than he’s been told. Why send a deadly agent of his experience to guard a computer genius—even a gorgeous, unpredictable, undisciplined one? But when Brigid’s estranged father is named in an investigation into Boston’s organized crime, Raider’s mind switches onto high alert, just like his senses…
    To clear her father’s name, Brigid needs Raider’s help. The Unit’s idea that she bring a straight-laced Fed in as her “fiancé” won’t fly, though—not unless Raider can release his inner bad boy and become the rebel Brigid can’t resist…
My thoughts: I liked this book—the suspense, the romance—but I can see which couples will be featured in future books. I don’t know if I like that part or not. Raider did tend to be a bit more of an alpha man than I like, but he wasn’t mean, so that helped. For me.

Book #30

Dates read: August 1-2
Title: Storm Warning
Year of publication: 2019
Author: Allison Brennan
Genre: Romantic suspense
Series: Lucy Kincaid #14.5 (novella)
# of Pages: 108
Paper or plastic: e-book for Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads:. FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid and her colleague Nate are racing a hurricane, but the storm is the least of their worries...
    Lucy and Nate head to rural Texas in order to take an FBI Most Wanted armed robber into custody. When they reach the jail hours from San Antonio, the local cops ask them to transport another prisoner, too, since the transfer location is on their way. With the hurricane keeping everyone busy, Lucy and Nate don’t have much of a choice but to help out.
    When the two prisoners stage an escape and take a child hostage on their way, Lucy and Nate must try to rescue the boy and survive the storm, without letting these violent criminals get away
My thoughts: Nice, quick read with characters I enjoy reading about. Nice little suspense, too.

So… have you had to self-quarantine during this pandemic? I really hope neither of us get this dreaded disease. My daughter is apt to kill us if we do! Okay, not kill. But she’ll definitely scorn us or something evil like that.

And if we manage to not get COVID, I’ll be a lot less nervous going to a restaurant. They really are doing their best to keep everything sanitized. Their business depends on it.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Where Have I Been?

In case you were wondering where I went off to (because it’s been awhile since I last posted), I went to Savannah for the Literary Love: Authors Rock Savannah book convention.

And I had a lot of fun!

I even sold books! The most at any convention. I can’t tell you how shocked I was. These readers were awesome. I really do believe I’ll go back next year, especially if I can talk my friend in going with me (she loves these kinds of conventions).

Savannah was a lot of fun, too. Did so much walking! My FitBit probably wondered who stole it.

Last Tuesday, Hubby and I went up to Hilton Head Island and checked out the beach there. Wow. I can see why people like to stay there. Huge beach. Warm water. I thoroughly enjoyed walking up and down the coastline (and I made sure to wear my sunscreen). The wind off the water was lovely, but once we got away from the water, boy did we melt! I think it was in the 90s until Thursday, and by then I was staying inside, since the convention started.

But I’m home now (and posting late, because I couldn’t remember I wanted to post this on schedule—guess my brain is still on vacation) and it’s time to get back to writing. I haven’t done it in a week!

So…What have you been up to this past week? As you can see I didn’t even get a book read, that’s how much fun I was having!

Happy Monday!

Stacy

Literary Love: Authors Rock Savannah

Today I’m using my blog to tell you about a reader/author convention happening this summer (July 25-28) in Savannah, Georgia, that I will be attending. It’s called Literary Love: Authors Rock Savannah. There are panels, parties, meals with authors, an awesome Faerie Ball, and two book signings. It’s a great opportunity to get to know so many authors. Over 80 authors are attending featuring multiple genres.

Get your Ticket HERE.

Once you register for the event, the portal for the deal on the hotel (which is on the riverfront!) will be sent to you.

Then head on over to Facebook and join the Attendee Group HERE.  Don’t miss out on all the fun!

The FULL EVENT ticket includes:

• 4 meals: First Date Breakfast on Friday, Paranormal Lunch on Friday, First in a Series Brunch on Saturday, Faerie Ball On Saturday evening.
• Access to 2 signings and the Welcome Open bar
• Welcome Bag with a tower of Freebie books
• Access to ALL parties and panels (starting Thursday, Most parties and events are over by 5pm on Friday, with the Dance party later that night, and the Erotic Trivia as well)
• Access to the Blind Date Book Room
• Ability to reserve tattoo time
• Ability to make a Corset fitting reservation
• Access to the Charity Gift baskets room

If you’ve ever wanted to spend some time with authors, this is the place to do it.

So… Have you ever been to a book convention? They can be overwhelming at times (to this introvert), but they are so much fun. I’m really looking forward to going to this one.

Happy Friday!

Stacy

Rain, Rain, Go Away

I know I wanted some rain to water our newly sodded yard, but this is ridiculous! It’s been raining and raining and raining.

Then again, it’s probably a good thing it’s been raining so much. We were just about to pay the basement guy for the work he’s done at the old house when the rain hit and we discovered his fixes did not fix the leaks.

***heavy sigh***

The painters are angry, they were ready to fix the drywall and paint the basement. We were ready to tell the flooring people to come and install the carpet and tile. Now we don’t know how much longer we’re going to have to wait.

And now I’m afraid we STILL won’t have the house on the market by the time we leave for our vacation. We had such high hopes, too.

In other news… I’ve registered for the Literary Love, Authors Rock Savannah convention (held in Savannah, of course, in July 2019). One of the things they do is offer a print anthology book featuring short stories from some of the authors available only at the convention. There will be two books: suit porn and paranormal. I’m thinking suit porn has to do with billionaires or men who wear suits, but I asked about the paranormal one and guess what? I got selected (she was only taking 8 authors).

So now I’m to write a short story (8-12K) featuring the hotel we’re staying at and it has to have paranormal stuff going on. I’m thinking a ghost story would work best, but some of my readers think a mish-mash of vampire and ghost would be fun. We’ll see if I can do that in a short story. Good thing they don’t need it until April.

Still have to get off my duff and write it, though. But I am getting back into my WIP and the writing bug is hitting me. Yay!

Football season has started! High school started a few weeks ago, and college last week, but the pros started this past weekend and what the heck, Steelers? Tied with the Brownies? You don’t know how awful it was to watch that game at B-dubs (since it wasn’t on TV locally) with all the Browns fans. They are a noisy bunch. If they’re not barking, they’re booming or booing (I haven’t quite figured out what they were saying, except they were saying it LOUDLY).

So… Have you been living in soggy territory lately? Hope your house is staying dry. At least our new house is, so there’s that! I love NOT having a basement anymore.

Happy Monday!

Stacy

Getting Sick at a Con and some GREAT News

Wouldn’t you believe it? I’m not at Rust City Book Con for one day and I come down with another cold. I can’t even blame this on con crud because I might have left the house with this cold. I had thought it was just my allergies being my allergies ignoring my pills.

Because my allergies tend to do that.

But no. As I drove closer to Detroit, the scratchier my throat became. Not a good sign. Luckily, the scratch went away. Not so lucky, the running nose and coughing took over. Finding cold medicine became a trick, since I didn’t want to drive in that crazy town (traffic was unreal) and there wasn’t ANY store within walking distance (I tried). I discovered the hotel sold Nyquil pills. $5 for 4 pills. Expensive, but Yay! I’d been sure I was saved.

I wasn’t. Those pills didn’t help all that much. Oh, they dried me up all right, to the point of clogging my nose. I couldn’t breathe! I don’t care what anyone says, the liquid stuff is better (I came home and took some Nyquil and it worked wonderfully).

Even though I became sick (I’m sooooo glad I packed lots of Kleenex packs—sure came in handy), I tried not to let it get to me too much. I did have a good time (and my friend liked it so much she wants to go back next year). Actually sold two books (which is two more than last year).

I still wish more people would have attended the book signing (which was open to the public). That’s something Jackie will have to work on.

Other than that, Jackie did and OUTSTANDING job of running this convention. I’ve never seen anyone work so hard just to make sure everyone had a good time.

And if it weren’t for my cold, I might have been able to enjoy more than I did.

Here’s my GREAT news: Hubby’s PET scan came back clean. No cancer! Of course, that’s what last year’s PET scan showed, so to be safe, he’ll have another PET scan in six months. Hubby is doing great though. He’s gained back some of the weight he lost, but is hoping he can stay at the weight he’s at now. He doesn’t want to gain it ALL back. So he’s back to walking after work (he’s up to 8 miles, but says he’ll stick with that number for awhile—before he walked 10 miles a day). I doubt I’ll ever walk that much. I’m lucky to get in 4 miles and my pace has really slowed down. Can’t blame that on my heart, though. Nope. It’s all due to my stupid arthritic knee.

Getting old sucks.

So…  Why do we get sick at the most inopportune times? Is there ever an opportune time? Hmmm…

Happy Monday!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads

Here’s what I read the past week:

Book #46

Dates read: July 25-31
Title: “Wolf Tales 12”
Year of publication: 2011
Author: Kate Douglas
Genre: Erotica
Series: Wolf Tales #12
# of Pages: 366
Paper or plastic: Trade Paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: Gifted with exceptional strength and extraordinary sensuality, the shape-shifting Chanku have learned to survive on their own, far away from their one time home in the mountains of Montana. But as the years pass, the packs begin to long for one another, for the incredible passion they enjoy together and for the erotic pleasure they find only with their own kind…
    It is then they hear Anton’s call. He has learned even more about the fascinating past of the Chanku. And the young girl, Lily, has made the most astonishing discover of all…
    The time has come for all Chanku to come together as one, to reclaim their primal past and to enter an amazing future that no one ever dreamed. Their epic journey is over, and least for now…
My thoughts: I wasn’t all that impressed with the last few books in this series, so I hesitated to read this. But I did and glad I had. Lots of stuff is packed into this (with lots of sex, can’t forget that!), making it longer than the others in this series. But it is a nice ending and I enjoyed the story.

I still have to pack my clothes, but I think I’m ready for the Rust City Book Con. When I get back from that on Sunday, then I have to start thinking about Dragon Con. I need to start binge-watching The Vampire Diaries (since I’m on the fan panel), and take lots of notes. Must remember to take notes! I can’t afford to procrastinate there. The Vampire Diaries lasted for 8 seasons! I still need season 8, but I’m not even sure I’ll get through seven seasons before the end of the month. It’ll be fun trying, though. J

So… How do you decide which book to read next? Do you look at your stack and see which one grabs you? Or do you have a specific list you’re whittling down? Me, I tend to look at my stack. Unfortunately the books on top get my attention first and I always put the newest purchase on top. Hmmm… Maybe I need to change my strategy there.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Getting Ready for Another Convention

I leave for the Rust City Book Con on Thursday. And you’d think I’d be ready, wouldn’t you? But I’m not.

Not even close.

I want to donate a series of books I own (for the raffle), but I have to finish reading the last one before I can do that. And then figure out how I want to give them away. Wrap them up in cellophane? Put them in a box (which would require finding a box that would fit AND display them)? Or maybe stick them in one of the numerous bags I’ve gotten from other conventions? Decisions, decisions.

I’m on a couple of panels and one of them might require some work ahead of time (still trying to get that confirmed). And if I do have to do some work, well, then, I’m gonna have to figure out what to work on.

I plan on giving away some frame-style key chains I bought from Oriental Trading. They’re really cool. I thought they’d look awesome with my covers. All I have to do is print out copies of my covers and insert them. Easy peasy, right? Only thing is, I needed a paper cutter, photo paper, labels (to stick on the back of the photo with my website), and ink for the printer. At least I bought all those on Friday. I had planned to print the covers, cut them out, and insert them yesterday, but did I? Nope. I decided to read the book instead (which I still haven’t finished).

Why or why do I wait until the last minute to do everything? I think my characters are toying with me, too. They know I’m busy, but now they’re talking. No fair!!!

So… Do you tend to “plan” for stuff, but then wait until the last minute to do it? At least I planned, though. Right? That’s gotta be better than flying blind. J

Happy Monday!

Stacy

 

So Glad to be Home

So… RT happened. Still big. Still draining (at least to me). And still no pictures (I know, you’re not surprised). Whether or not RT did me any good sales-wise will take time to decide. It’s not like I could sell any of my books there. Some interested readers stopped by my table for some postcards and I got a few more newsletter signups, so that’s good. But I didn’t go to this convention expecting anything huge.

I did, however, expect a better turnout for one of the events I was involved with. Don’t know what caused a low turnout, especially since other parties of the same nature got a full house. Guess we’ll never know.

Will I go to another RT? Well, I won’t go next year. It’s in Reno (too far for me). If it’s closer in 2019 AND I have a new book out, I may go again. I do get to meet up with a lot of author friends, so there’s that.

When I think back on the events/panels I attended at previous RTs, I didn’t go to many reader events (only those parties at night, and mainly because they involved a meal). But I decided to try Cinema Craptastique in Dallas (2015). Man, that was so much fun, I had to go again this year.

I can hear Jeff asking all the way out here, “What is Cinema Craptastique?” Well, you see, Damon Suede (erotica author) takes this really bad movie and just picks it apart, while everyone in the room (and all around wherever, who are watching the flick at the same time as those of us at the con) are tweeting about how bad this movie is. That’s right. Tweeting. I don’t do the tweeting part, but I do enjoy making fun of bad movies. In 2015 he picked “Hercules” (starring Kellen Lutz). This year he picked a real bomb: “Glitter.”

I had never heard of this movie and there was a good reason for that. #1, it debuted on 9/11/2001 (I kid you not!), and #2, it starred Mariah Carrey (that girl can NOT act). Of course, it didn’t help that whoever wrote the screenplay, couldn’t write, either. It was just bad, bad, BAD!

Tonight is game 6 of round 2 between the Penguins and Capitals. This better be the last game of round 2 between these two. I do NOT want a game 7. Let’s go Pens!!

So… What’s going on in your world? Anything interesting?

Happy Monday!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads and I'm at RT!

First full day of RT (Romantic Times Booklovers Convention in Atlanta), but had fun at Cinema Craptastique last night and completely I forgot to post this. Figures! Must be a sign that I’m gonna have fun, right? If I’m good (but we all know I’m not, not really), I’ll have pictures to share with you on Monday.

I’ve decided to list the Book # read of the year (instead of #1, #2, etc of the week). That way you can see how many I’ve read so far. Here’s what I read the past week:

Book #30

Dates read: April 25-27
Title: “The Black Lily”
Year of publication: 2017
Author: Juliette Cross
Genre: Paranormal/fantasy romance
Series: Tales of the Black Lily #1
# of Pages: 237
Paper or plastic: E-book
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads: Cinderella like you’ve never seen before…
   With the threat of the vampire monarchy becoming stronger every day, the Black Lily must take drastic measures. As the leader of the underground resistance, Arabelle concocts the perfect idea to gain the attention of the Glass Tower. Her plan? Attend the vampire prince’s blood ball and kill him. Fortunately for Prince Marius, her assassination goes awry, and Arabelle flees, leaving behind only her dagger.
   Marius is desperate to find the woman whose kiss turned into attempted murder, hunting for the mysterious assassin he can’t push out of his mind. But what he uncovers could change the course of his life forever…
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this. At first it did seem like a spin on Cinderella, but went far beyond that fairy tale. There are some gruesome scenes, but they’re vampires, so it was kind of expected. The romance was quite conflicted, which kept me turning the pages. Or, actually, got me pushing the button to advance to the next screen.   

Book #31

Dates read: April 28-30
Title: “My Cousin Rachel”
Year of publication: 1951
Author: Daphne du Maurier
Genre: Hmmm… Gothic mystery?
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 387
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Library
Blurb from Book: One of the world’s great storytellers, Daphne du Maurier spins a dark gothic tale of passion and unswerving love that turns to suspicion and fear. Rachel, a woman of exquisite beauty, descends on the great Cornwall estate of Philip Ashley. Despite his aroused suspicions, she soon enchants him. In this tale of good and evil, Philip must decide whether the glorious Rachel, the recent mysterious widow of his beloved cousin, is out to destroy him or is the innocent victim of devious men and a tremendous longing to be loved. His fate and his future lie in the answer to this deadly question.
My thoughts: Well, not exactly what I expected, although I’m not sure what it was I did expect. Intriguing story, though. I had to re-read the last few pages just to make sure I didn’t miss something. I didn’t. I’m more compelled to see the movie, now, that’s for sure.

So… anything you think I should do while I’m at the convention? Besides have fun, of course.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

It’s Finally May? Thank Goodness!

Happy May Day. No offense to my daughter, because her birthday is in that month, but I really didn’t think April was ever going to end. She has been getting some bad luck with her last two birthdays, though (Hubby was recovering from surgery last year). Hopefully next year everyone will be WELL and she can enjoy her birthday more.

I’m hoping we’ll be able to get to our first Dragons game of the season this month (we had tickets for Sunday, but ended up selling them. Hubby just didn’t think he could handle being outside and I kind of agreed with him). Got to watch the game on TV, though and saw the Dragons WIN! In fact, I believe they’re in first place in their division. Yay!

RT (Romantic Times Booklovers Convention) is coming this month and I leave for Atlanta tomorrow, for a week full of some crazy-fun. Maybe I’ll get lucky and find some new readers. I’m not selling any books there, but I am in a couple of the reader events and will have postcards with links to buy the e-books. Besides, attendees will be so loaded up with paper books, they’d probably prefer digital. That’s my hope, anyway.

We have a long weekend trip to the Mammouth Caves (in Kentucky) planned for the end of this month. I really do hope Hubby’s recovered enough by then (I’ve already booked tours). Of course, I’ll probably be the slowpoke on those tours. I may be able to walk 4 miles a day, but climbing is a different issue. My heart will definitely get a workout.

Which, yes, I have been walking again. Have been pretty regular for the last two weeks (5X a week, around 4 miles a day, for about 1:15 a trek). This week will be a bust, sort of. I did sign up for a fitness class at RT for 3 of the days. I may not be able to DO the exercises, but I will go. I will, I tell you!

So yeah, May looks to be a whole lot more fun than April did (minus my two cardiology appointments, although if I get good news, then it won’t matter).

May also has more HOCKEY! At least for us fans who still have a team in the race. So far the Penguins have been playing pretty good in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Or should I say Marc-Andre Fleury has been playing EXCELLENT! Man, I love that guy. Game three against the Washington Capitals is tonight in Pittsburgh. And I’m pretty sure I’ll be finding a TV in Atlanta on Wednesday that has game 4. If I’m lucky, the hotel room’s TV has NBCSports. J

So… How does your May look? Are you busy this month, too? Hopefully it’s FUN busy!

Happy Monday!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads

I might not have gotten much revising done while at RomCon, but by gosh, I read some books. Reading’s a lot easier than writing while traveling, that’s for sure. And after a hectic day in the convention (no matter how much fun they are they can be very stressful), reading is the best medicine. Here’s what I read the past week:

September 29: “Immortal Nights” by Lynsay Sands, #24 in the Argeneau Vampire series, a paranormal romance at 346 pages. Blurb from book: Abigail Forsythe’s life hasn’t been easy lately. Still, if there’s one thing guaranteed to take her mind off an empty bank account and abandoned dreams, it’s a naked man locked in a plane’s cargo hold. A very big, incredibly gorgeous naked man. And when instinct prompts her to free him, Abigail must rely on this stranger for survival…a stranger who leaves her thrumming with need every time they touch. Tomasso Notte knows he’s found his life mate in Abigail. Now he just has to hold on to her. They’re miles from civilization, hunted by his kidnappers. Abigail has no idea of Tomasso’s abilities, or of how intensely pleasurable their unique connection can be. But he’s about to show her, beginning with one wild, hot, immortal night… I really can’t get enough of this series. They’re just plain fun to read. Yes, even after 24 books!

October 3: “The Vampire’s Mail Order Bride” by Kristen Painter, #1 in the Nocturne Falls series, a paranormal romance at 212 pages. Blurb from Goodreads: Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town where Halloween is celebrated 365 days a year. The tourists think it's all a show: the vampires, the werewolves, the witches, the occasional gargoyle flying through the sky. But the supernaturals populating the town know better. Living in Nocturne Falls means being yourself. Fangs and all. After seeing her maybe-mobster boss murder a guy, Delaney James assumes a new identity and pretends to be a mail order bride. What she doesn't know is her groom to be is a 400-year-old vampire. Hugh Ellingham has only agreed to the set up to make his overbearing grandmother happy. His past means love is no longer an option. Except he never counted on Delaney and falling in love for real. Too bad both of them are keeping some mighty big secrets... What a fun book, but I knew I shouldn't have read it. I know, why’d I get it, then? Because it was free and it looked fun. Well, it was, and now I want to read more of her work (even though the author closes the door whenever sex is in play—drat!). I really do need to finish the books I own, but--haha--that'll never happen will it?

October 3: “All I Need” by Eden Ashe, a paranormal romance novella at 48 pages. Blurb from Goodreads: When she inherits the ancestral manor she’d grown up in from her wily grandmother, Jilly is ready to settle down. Only problem—the manor has been willed to Luke Bannon as well. The bane of her existence, Luke is the one guy who can threaten her carefully erected walls. But not a man to be ignored, he has loved her forever. He just wishes he didn’t have to share the house with her. Once they’re alone in the old manor, it’s clear something isn’t right.... Doors locked tight, windows won’t budge... something—or someone—won’t let them leave. At least not until they admit they’re meant to be together. This story was a fun and sexy read, but way, way too short. Which I wasn’t expecting since the author stated it used to be 600 pages. 600 pages down to 48? Too much was cut (I would have liked to know more about the character’s motivations—heck I’d like to know more about the characters, period). Then again, it states it’s the first book of the series. Maybe the rest of the story will come out later. Unfortunately, there aren’t any other books out right now (or the hint of any). Boo.

So… What do you like to do to decompress?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Still Traveling, BBQ, and Football

Well, RomCon16 is in the books, but I’m still on the road. Expect to make it home later this afternoon. I’ll be glad to sleep in my own bed tonight. And use my own internet. It may be slow, but it’s nothing compared to hotel wi-fi. Ugh.

RomCon was fun, although I really thought it would be bigger. Kind of shocked me that Lori Foster’s Reader Author Get Together (RAGT) is larger and way cheaper (that last part mainly from the venue, I’m sure).

It was a nice intimate con and I met a lot of readers (mostly from the speed date an author event—fun, but whew!). It would have been nice if I SOLD some books at the book signing (I’m not doing so well at any con for that), but a lot of people were interested in my books and I let them know the e-books were cheaper (especially Bite Me, I’m Yours and Ghostly Liaison).

Will I go back, though? Probably not. It’s just a bit too far for me.

That marks the end of my conventions for this year. I have one more book signing/luncheon coming up on Dec 3, but I don’t have to go far for that (Newport, KY).

We stopped  in Kansas City last night (about the half-way mark). I wanted to try some KC BBQ, so we asked the hotel clerk what was good and he recommended a place (family owned, not a chain). I ordered the pulled pork, but couldn’t eat it. It was way too spicy, which shocked me. I never would have expected it to be anything other than smoky. The waitress insisted on replacing my meal (even though I told her it wasn’t necessary), so I got the brisket (which is what Hubby was eating). It was much better, but man, was there a lot of meat there. I don’t think they know what 6oz is. I swear, there must have been closer to a pound on the plate. We ended up taking most of it with us. Good thing we have a cooler to transport it home.

But my opinion? I liked the Texas BBQ we got in San Antonio a whole bunch more.

Football Games this past weekend:

• Missed our Wayne Warriors (high school) play on Friday, but they won easily (58-7). Playoff bound? I hope so!!
• Hubby was able to watch the OSU game at B-dubs (not used to a 10am game, though), while I was busy with that speed date an author. He sent updates. I smiled a lot. Quite a blow-out.
• My Rams are 3-1 now. Whoo hoo!
• And the Steelers topped off another good football weekend.

So… Do you have a BBQ preference? Texas? Kansas City? Something else? Is there something else?

Happy Monday!

Stacy

I Made it to Denver!

Apparently I don’t have to actually walk up 78 flights of stairs to get credit on my Fitbit. I only have to drive to Denver!

Yeah, surprised the heck out of me, too.

But I made it and the drive really wasn’t all that bad. Once we hit Kansas (which I realized I had never been through before), we drove between 80-90 mph (zoom-zoom— speed limit is 75). Traffic was light and there really is a bunch of nothing in that big state. One straight road and no trees! Same for Colorado. It wasn’t until we hit the Denver Airport area when traffic picked up.

Even though we’re at a mile high, I’m still waiting to see the mountains. Can’t tell if the clouds were covering them or if they can even be seen from here. Maybe I’ll see them today. That’s if I even go outside.

I gotta con to go to!

Now, I brought my camera, but we’ll see if I use it. Hahahaha!

So… We noticed that there were numerous places on I-70 in Kansas and Colorado that said if the lights were flashing, you were forced to get off the road. I can only imagine that’s during a snow storm (what else could it be?). With no trees, there’s nothing to stop the snow from blowing across the road. And man, it was windy yesterday. I could picture the snow falling sideways. Glad temps were in the 70s! No threat of snow.

Happy Friday!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads

Today marks the 12th post of the month. Friday will be #13. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I remember to post then because I’ll be in a car alllllll day Thursday. I might want to pull my pad of paper out and write something while I’m not doing the driving. Maybe I’ll see something interesting. I can only hope. I wanna keep my goal of 13 posts per month, because it appears to be the only goal I can keep right now.

Here’s what I read the past week:

September 22: “Bite Somebody” by Sara Dobie Bauer, a paranormal romance at 253 pages. Blurb from book: “Do you want to be perfect?” That’s what Danny asked Celia the night he turned her into a vampire. Three months have passed since, and immortality didn’t transform her into the glamorous, sexy vamp she was expecting, but left her awkward, lonely, and working at a Florida gas station. On top of that, she’s a giant screw-up of an immortal, because the only blood she consumes is from illegally obtained hospital blood bags. What she needs to do—according to her moody vampire friend Imogene—is just…bite somebody. But Celia wants her first bite to be special and she has yet to meet Mr. Right Bite. Then, Ian moves in next door. His scent creeps through her kitchen wall and makes her nose tingle, but insecure Celia can’t bring herself to meet the guy face-to-face. When she finally gets a look at Ian’s cyclist physique, curly black hair, and sun-kissed skin, other parts of Celia tingle, as well. Could he be the first bite she’s been waiting for to complete her vampire transformation? His kisses certainly have a way of making her fangs throb. Just when Celia starts to believe Ian may be the fairy tale ending she always wanted, her jerk of a creator returns to town, which spells nothing but trouble for everyone involved. I met the author at Rust City Book Con and heard this was a hilarious book (plus I loved the cover), so I took a chance and bought a copy (the only book I bought there). Can’t say I laughed out loud, but I did enjoy the story. Just wish that when it reached the TITLE part, that it was a little more…involved. Book says it’s a romance, and it is written in third person, but it’s all Celia’s point of view. Too bad (I love finding out what the guy thinks—although Ian probably isn’t what you’d call “hero” material). The sex is skimmed over, if that makes a difference to you (again, I prefer more detail). Overall it was a fun read and I’d read more from this author.

September 26: “Hard Ever After” by Laura Kaye, book #4.6 in the Hark Ink series, a contemporary romance novella at 126 pages. Blurb from book: After a long battle to discover the truth, the men and women of Hard Ink have a lot to celebrate, especially the wedding of two of their own—Nick Rixey and Becca Merritt—whose hard-fought love deserves a happy ending. As Nick and the team shift from crisis mode to building their new security consulting firm, Becca heads back to work at the ER. But amid the everyday chaos of their demanding jobs and upcoming nuptials, an old menace they thought was long gone reemerges, threatening the peace they’ve only just found. Now, for one last time, Nick and Becca must fight for their always and forever, because they know that when true love overcomes all the odds, it lasts hard ever after. Basically, this is the last book of the series and a fun one at that. Loved getting back into this world.

So… Want to know where I’m going that I’ll be in a car all day? Rom Con! That will be a romance reader convention in Denver for you folks who don’t know what that is. Originally, Hubby and I were going to take a longer vacation driving out there and back, but then life intervened and he couldn’t get the time off he wanted. We’re still driving (because it’s way cheaper), but not doing any sight-seeing on this trip, which is sad. I was 13 the last time I travelled through Kansas & Colorado, and I don’t remember much.

 

Have you ever been to Denver?

Happy Reading!

Stacy