"To find out what a story's really about,' the Librarian said,

'you don't ask the writer. You ask the reader."


- SNOW & ROSE by Emily Winfield Martin


Showing posts with label Adult Paranormal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Adult Paranormal. Show all posts

Friday, June 27, 2014

Blog Tour (Exclusive Excerpt and Giveaway): VAMPIRE TROUBLE (Dead in the City #2) by Sara Humphreys (A)


Dead in the City #2
by Sara Humphreys
Expected release date: July 1st, 2014
Published by: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Adult Paranormal
Format: Paperback, eBook



SUMMARY

Shane Quesada, a four-century old vampire sentry, is known for cold, unemotional precision when hunting rogue vampires. 

Maya Robertson is a youngling vampire who will not be controlled — and to prove it, she rejects Shane’s protection — only to find herself in over her head with an alpha werewolf.

Soon, a war between the coven and the werewolf clan ignites, and Maya and Shane flee to Louisiana, where their passion for each other grows — as does Maya’s power. When she finds herself at the center of the conflict, will she finally trust Shane with her life — 
and her heart?



EXCLUSIVE EXCERPT #10

 “You’re killing me, woman.” Doug linked his arm around her waist and kissed her cheek, which had her smiling wistfully. “You have got to come back to bed and get some rest.”
“Fine,” Olivia said, feigning an angry tone. She looked back at Shane and gave him a sad smile. “Whatever you do, Shane, go easy. Maya may act tough, but it’s all bullshit. Which is one reason I’m less than thrilled she’s going to work for Rat.”
“No she’s not.” Shane folded his arms over his chest and ignored the smirk on Doug’s face. “I will not allow it.”
“Good luck with that ‘not allowing it’ shit, man.” Doug shook his head. Linking Olivia’s fingers in his, he started pulling her toward their apartment. “That’s a surefire way to piss off any woman, human or vampire.”
“It’s not up to you, Shane, or me,” Olivia said. “Maya is not my property—­she’s my family. She’s got every intention of starting work at Rat’s club tomorrow night, and as you know, I gave her my reluctant blessing.” Shane opened his mouth to protest, but Olivia held up one hand, silencing him. “I am letting her do this because I’m assigning you as her personal babysitter. If it will make you feel better, you can tell her that you’re her bodyguard. And I’m only doing this because the wolves will be hanging out there, okay?”
“Good move, babe.” Doug tried to pull her down the hall, but she held her ground. “Shane can handle Maya. After all, she’s a youngling and he’s older than dirt.”
Shane ignored the jab because Doug was even younger than Maya. His angel bloodline and the bloodmate bond with Olivia had not only made his transformation seamless, but had also fast-­tracked all of his abilities. Doug may have been turned only a few months ago, but he was one of the most powerful vampires Shane had ever met. “I already told her that was the deal, and she’s about as happy about it as you would expect.”
“What about my sentry patrols?” Shane asked out of duty, not because he wanted to be away from Maya. “We can’t leave the city unprotected.”
“Doug can handle things,” Olivia said with a wink to her mate. “Besides, the big concern is the wolves, and they’ll be hanging out at The Dollhouse. We kill two birds with one stone. You can keep an eye on Maya and the wolves at the same time.”
“Bed.” Doug swept Olivia off her feet as she shrieked in protest. “Now.”
“Remember what I said, Shane,” Olivia shouted through a laugh while Doug carried her away. “And don’t let her out of your sight around those wolves.”
Shane watched the czars disappear down the hallway, with Van and Oreo close behind, and his thoughts immediately went to Maya. He opened the door to his apartment and stepped inside, and when the door closed shut behind him, Shane marveled at the silence. His gaze flicked around the large studio apartment with a new perspective. The place was decorated in shades of gray, void of all color, but this was the first time Shane felt the dullness.
Shedding his clothes, he made his way to the queen-­size bed, still unmade from the day before, and slipped between the sheets with one thing on his mind—­Maya. If he got pulled into Maya’s 

dreamscape again, he would do a hell of a lot more than watch. He drifted into a quiet slumber, and as his eyes fluttered closed, Shane hoped for the first time in centuries to dream.

GIVEAWAY

TWO winners will be chosen to win
- A copy of the first book to the Dead in the City series: TALL, DARK and VAMPIRE
- A special 'Dead in the City' bookmark and
- An "I <3 #NYCVamps" button!

Giveaway rules:
- US/Canada only.
- Prize(s) sponsored by Sourcebooks. 
- Bumbles and Fairy-Tales will not be held responsible for any lost, damaged, etc. prize(s).




ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Sara Humphreys

Sara has been a lover of both the paranormal and romance novels for years. Her sci-fi/fantasy/romance obsession began years ago with the TV Series STAR TREK and an enormous crush on Captain Kirk. That sci-fi obsession soon evolved into the love of all types of fantasy/paranormal; vampires, ghosts, werewolves, and of course shape shifters. 

Sara is married to her college sweetheart, Will. They live in New York with their 4 boys. 


Monday, February 24, 2014

Release Day Book Blast and GIVEAWAYS from Entangled Edge!!!



Edge, a digital-first single-title romance line from Entangled Publishing, takes its lead from their popular Select imprint but gives its novels an edge in the marketplace by bringing great stories to readers at reasonable prices in a quick-and-easy way. Whether sexy or sweet, traditional romance or love and lust with a women’s fiction bent, at the center of every Edge book is heart. From Urban Fantasy to Contemporary Romance to Science Fiction Romance, Edge has a book for all romance readers—and right at their fingertips! As they say, all’s fair in love and war. To find out more about their titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books are coming next, visit the Entangled website, follow them on Twitter, and like their Facebook page.

Today I'm happy to be featuring Edge's February releases!!!


by Daire St. Denis
Release date: February 24th, 2014
Published by: Entangled Edge
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Format: eBook

SUMMARY

Jordan Michaels wants his car fixed, now, and he wants Sass’s auto body shop to do it. But the handsome blond has a secret−he’s really Jordan Carlyle of Carlyle’s Classics, Sass Hogan’s biggest competitor, and he’s determined to prove himself to his family. As Sass and Jordan get to know each other, the depth of the attraction has them falling in love. But a relationship based on lies will only leave them primed for the worst wreck of their lives.






A Blood Hunter Novel by Nina Croft
Release date: February 24th, 2014
Published by: Entangled Edge
Genre: Adult Science Fiction
Format: eBook

SUMMARY

After five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. Until he realizes he’s physically changing—into what, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, but his own people will stop at nothing to prevent it from coming out. He turns to Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador. Sparks fly as they work together to make it out alive, but can Callum really trust the one woman hell bent on using him? Defying death has never been more dangerous…or more sexy.





A Novel of The Order by Nina Croft
Release date: February 24th, 2014
Published by: Entangled Edge
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Format: eBook

SUMMARY

As payment for a debt, Ash Delacourt finds himself working with the Order of the Shadow Accords as the demon representative. It’s a chance to be near his daughter, make a new start, and—once he’s met the delectable Detective Connolly—maybe have a little fun. But Faith has a secret, and falling in love with Ash—one of the bad guys, albeit a stunningly gorgeous one, isn't part of her future. How can she ever let Ash close when her time is running out…?






by Patricia Eimer
Release date: February 24, 2014
Published by: Entangled Edge
Genre: Adult Paranormal Comedy
Format: eBook

SUMMARY

There’s never an end to the crazy when you’re demon spawn. Not that Faith Bettincourt’s complaining. She's patching things up with her angelic on-again off-again boyfriend, Matt, and saving kids from Death in her pediatric unit, one soul at a time. But when she's forced to take over as the Angel of Death, and then Matt’s ex comes back, bringing the Apocalypse with her, Faith’s not about to give up the world...or her man. When the chips are down, what’s a girl to do but take matters in her own hands, consequences be damned?




Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Waiting On Wednesday #70: ROOMS by Lauren Oliver (Adult)


"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly meme hosted by  Breaking the Spine. 


This is were we get to 'spotlight' books that we are anxiously waiting to be released! The ones that we are dying to get our hands on and read into the wee hours of the night and, quite possibly, to make our shelves look all pretty too :)

What I'm waiting on... 

ROOMS
by Lauren Oliver
Expected release date: September 23rd, 2014
Published by: Ecco (HarperCollins)
Genre: Adult - Contemporary Paranormal
Format: Hardcover, eBook

SUMMARY

A novel narrated by two ghosts that inhabit the walls of an old house. 

Lauren Oliver makes her adult debut with this mesmerizing story in a tale of family, ghosts, secrets, and mystery, in which the lives of the living and the dead intersect in shocking, surprising, and moving ways.

Wealthy Richard Walker has just died, leaving behind his country house full of rooms packed with the detritus of a lifetime. His estranged family—bitter ex-wife Caroline, troubled teenage son Trenton, and unforgiving daughter Minna—have arrived for their inheritance.

But the Walkers are not alone. Prim Alice and the cynical Sandra, long dead former residents bound to the house, linger within its claustrophobic walls. Jostling for space, memory, and supremacy, they observe the family, trading barbs and reminiscences about their past lives. Though their voices cannot be heard, Alice and Sandra speak through the house itself—in the hiss of the radiator, a creak in the stairs, the dimming of a light bulb.

The living and dead are each haunted by painful truths that will soon surface with explosive force. When a new ghost appears, and Trenton begins to communicate with her, the spirit and human worlds collide—with cataclysmic results.


Why I'm waiting for ROOMS...

It's LAUREN OLIVER!!!

I have read all of her already released books!
I am really looking forward to her new young adult book, PANIC...
Her middle grade books were mystical!
And don't even get me started on how much I loved the Delirium trilogy...
I am so very happy to see her adult debut releasing this fall!
It sounds amazing! And its been so long since I have read a good adult book; let alone a paranormal one with GHOSTS!!! Cannot wait to read this!!!

She will always be one of those authors were I will pick up her book, just because...


SO, what are you waiting for??? 

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Blog Tour: OUT IN BLUE by Sarah Gilman (Guest Post, Review & Giveaway!)




Today is my stop on 
Sarah Gilman's OUT IN BLUE Blog Tour 
being hosted by Entangled Select!

A big thank you to Sarah for taking the time to be a guest on my blog today!







GUEST POST

The Father and Son Relationship in Romance Books 
by Sarah Gilman

First, I must say how much I love this blog; it reminds me of spring! Spring is not far off, but here in Vermont, it’s still as frigid as ever. Thank you so much for hosting!

In romance, both adult and young adult, the story focuses on the developing relationship of the hero and heroine. One of my favorite themes is “love overcoming all obstacles,” which is why you won’t find characters at odds with each other until the very end in my books. As a reader and a writer, I enjoy witnessing two characters who want to be together fight not with each other, but fight everything else to secure a future together. Even so, a lot of factors come together to form a relationship worth fighting for.

One of the things that can bring two people together is a shared experience that few people can relate to. In Out in Blue, the hero, Wren, experienced the murder of his parents when he was ten years old. The heroine, Ginger, carries a similar burden. That shared pain and the basic understanding of each other it creates, by itself carries more weight than a thousand casual conversations.
A person’s relationship with their parents always makes up a vital part of their personality. It goes without saying that Wren and Ginger wouldn’t have connected over, say, broken toys; the loss of parents, particularly the violent loss, alters a child forever. When writing any character, I consider how their relationship with their parents will affect the story.

In all three of the Return to Sanctuary books I’ve written so far, the hero’s father plays a vital role in the plot. The heroines and their fathers are also crucial, of course, and so are the mothers of the characters, but I find myself often putting emphasis on the father and son relationship.
The father figure is fundamental in who a given hero is as a person and a character. Basic biology comes into play, of course: Wren has wings because his father is a fallen archangel. But as in real life, it’s much more than biology. Wren’s father, Raphael, is a character who relentlessly protects his family. As a ten year old, Wren witnessed his father fight for all their lives despite having no chance against the antagonist. As a character, this sets the stage for Wren to become a fighter, someone who won’t give up in the face of dire odds especially when it comes to someone he cares about—a crucial factor in how he deals with his relationship with Ginger. If his father had left him to fend for himself, saving his own neck, Wren would have grown into a considerably different character.

Not all romances give mention to the hero’s father, but many do. I think it’s an important way to develop the hero. How a man views and treats women is often a product of his relationship with his father, as fathers teach by example in their own relationships. Good fathers, evil fathers, geek fathers, military fathers—all play a role in the hero’s life and ultimately, the hero’s relationship with the heroine.

When I first started writing Out in Blue, curiosity drove me: What would it be like to have an archangel as a parent? The question helped spawn a whole series. 

Readers, what romances have you read in which the hero’s father played a significant role?

________________________________________________________

Out in Blue
A Return to Sanctuary Novel
by Sarah Gilman
Release date: January 29th, 2013
Published by: Entangled Select
Genre: Adult - Paranormal Romance
Format read: eARC

SUMMARY

In a violent world where fallen archangels are hunted for their valuable plumage, Wren knows one thing for certain: the human woman who saved him from a poacher attack will die if she stays with him. The demon responsible for his parents’ gruesome deaths two decades ago pines for the chance to rip apart any woman who stands under Wren’s wing.

Wren doesn’t expect Ginger to stay by his side once she discovers his ability to drain life with a mere touch, yet she lingers. When an unusual talent of her own reveals the location of Wren’s father, Wren’s isolated world implodes. With the help of the demon protectors he’s sworn never to trust again, Wren risks everything to rescue his father, confront the demon who stalks his and Ginger’s every step, and claim his eternity with the most courageous woman he’s ever known.


MY REVIEW

Sarah Gilman's take on fallen angels and demons is like no other that I have ever read before - this story captured my attention within the first few pages...

The author immediately throws us into Ginger's world where archangels exist - fallen angels, humans think that they are disgusting, evil and don't deserve to live. There aren't many left, but they do exist. Poachers hunt them down for their feathers - feathers softer than silk - and a box full can bring in millions of dollars.

Ginger is minding her own business and having a cup of coffee when she overhears a conversation - a group of poachers have found where an archangel has been hiding and they are planning on waiting for his return to capture him, take his feathers and then kill him.
But Ginger is not your ordinary human, she grew up with the Guardians - Demons whose job is to protect the archangels. And she would be dishonoring her father if she didn't do something to stop these poachers. Her plan gets askew a bit, but in the end, she does end up saving the archangel, known as Wren.

There is an instant connection and attraction between these two, but it was written so well and convincingly, I barely noticed it, and actually liked what was going on between them.
Ginger never showed any weakness, yes there are moments when she worries and was frightened, but she never backed down and always became better and stronger when she stood her ground.
Wren, there are no words to best describe him. His pride was strong and heartening, but even so, he never took shame in his weakest moments and never held back when it came to showing his love.
What I really loved about both Ginger and Wren was their strong bond of family and loyalty. It is rare to find a story where the bonds of family and friends, no matter how they came about, are so strong and heartfelt.

Out In Blue is brilliantly told from two different point-of-views. Both main characters, Ginger and Wren, have such refreshing voices where they spoke their mind and were honest with everyone, especially with each other. Nothing was ever a game to them.
Sarah Gilman's writing is fluent and capturing - she gives us just enough to picture the story in our minds, but not too much, which is something that I love when an author can accomplish this. It gives the reader the freedom to add in the extra small details that they would like to and make it their own.

Even if you're not a fan of angel-type stories, I would still highly recommend this book to you! It is so unique and believable, it will definitely have you looking up to the sky, searching for a fallen star... an archangel.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Sarah Gilman

 Sarah Gilman started her first novel in third grade. She never finished that story, but never gave up the dream. 
Her fascination with wings also began at that age, when images of the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis captured her imagination and never let go. 
Now a paranormal romance writer, she employs her love of writing to bring the allure of winged creatures to the pages of her novels.

Sarah lives in Vermont with her supportive husband and two spoiled cats.



Follow the OUT IN BLUE Blog Tour!!!
There are a ton of excerpts, guest posts, reviews, prizes, etc..! 
Be sure to stop by all the blogs listed below for more!!!

February 11th - Fiktshun After Dark
February 13th - Kindle and Me
February 15th - My Shelf Confessions 
February 20th - Ren's Rambles 
February 22nd - Cocktails and Books 
February 25th - Reader Girls Blog 
February 27th - Bumbles and Fairy-Tales 
March 2nd - The Book Cellar 
March 4th - Always YA at Heart 
March 6th - Simply Ali
March 6th - Fade Into Fantasy 
March 8th - Girls With Books 
March 11th - Young Adult Book Reviews
March 13th - Urban Fantasy Investigations 
March 13th - Ramblings From This Chick 
March 14th - Goodreads Group: Never Too Young for YA Books
March 15th - Kristina's Books and More 
March 16th - Return to Sanctuary Facebook Chat

(2) GIVEAWAYS

Enter to win an eCopy of OUT OF BLUE!!! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

There is also a blog tour scavenger-hunt giveaway for 4 paperback copies of OUT IN BLUE!
Enter below!!!



Sunday, February 10, 2013

Grown-Up Sundays #7: A Lady and Her Magic by Tammy Falkner


Happy Sunday :) 
Welcome to another "Grown-Up Sunday!"
This is my bi-weekly meme where I get to feature my favorite 'adult' reads (and reviews) with you!
This week's featured book is... 

Faerie #1
by Tammy Falkner
Release date: September 4th, 2012
Published by: Sourcebooks Casablanca 
Genre: Adult - Romance, Historical Fiction, Paranormal (Faeries)
Format read: ARC


SUMMARY

Rules Are Made to be Disobeyed...

Sophia Thorne is new to the Regency's glittering high society, which resembles her magical homeland only insofar as both places are filled with ridiculous rules. Which means no matter where she goes, she's bound for trouble...

And Scandals Are Meant to be Shocking...

The Duke of Robinsworth has flaunted and shocked society for years. In a moment of fateful mischief, Robinsworth encounters the enchanting and distinctly scandalous Sophia. Between her streak of magical mischief and his penchant for scandal, they're about to take rule-breaking to a whole new level.





MY REVIEW

Tammy Falkner has written a fun historical-fantasy fiction full of magic, romance and humor! Once I got past the first few chapters and got comfortable with the setting and the characters ways, it turned into a quick page-turner with laugh-out-loud moments and a faerie twist. 

Sophia Thorne is a mission-fairy, her current mission is to make things better for Lady Anne, the Duke of Robinsworth's daughter. But upon meeting the little girl, she senses the Duke's sadness and isolation and decides that she will help him too. As long as she stays out of trouble and doesn't break any of the five "Unpardonable Errors" all should work out quickly and smoothly... at least she hopes it does.

Ashley Trimble, the Duke, is blown away by Sophia - not only was she able to handle his unruly daughter in a way that he has never seen before, but even more so, because Sophia claims not to be afraid of him, rumors can be that, just rumors, she claimed. He also sees that she is different from the women he is accustomed to meeting, her mannerisms are blunt, genuine, heartfelt and child-like. All the things that he is craving in his life, not only for himself, but for his daughter too. And it does help that Sophia carries a beauty that is usually frowned upon - unruly auburn hair and freckles that he instantly adores. 

I love historical fictions that have a paranormal twist to them - this is my first time reading one with fairies, and I really enjoyed it. The whole concept of these type of faeries was quite different - each fairy is different, there are mission faeries, gift faeries, house faeries... there was also a garden gnome that can shadow faes to make sure they stay on their missions. The "Unpardonable Errors" are the best part - of course one them is 'never ever falling in love with a human'. And the romance between Sophia and Ashley is like no other. Even with Sophia's fae-ness, Sophia and Ashley's relationship was so realistic, fun to follow and watch unfold. Their banter and teasing was hilarious! And the romance was done perfectly. Not too hot, but enough to quench the tension and imagination.

The secondary characters made this book even more enjoyable - Sophia's snooping garden gnome, Ronald was quite a character, I can picture him and all of his 2-foot tallness! Ashley's brother Finn brought in some much needed humor - he was always there to either lighten Ashley's mood or set him in place. Even Ashley's butler, Wilson, was perfect - bringing in order and wisdom. 
All memorable and amazing characters. 

There is a really interesting concept about the faeries regarding fish! I really, really wish there was more discussion and explanation about this - no one has ever done this before and I am so very curious to learn more about it. 

I never thought I would say this about this book, but A Lady and Her Magic is definitely one that I would enjoy re-reading; and I am definitely looking forward to following the series. 


And the Faerie series continues... 




Expected release date: June 4th, 2013


SUMMARY

Claire Thorne is a faerie on a mission. When the governing body of her world puts a prohibition on magic, she escapes to the human world and straight into the arms of Lord Phineas Tremble. When he insists on being her crime-solving partner, she does everything she can to get rid of him—until she realizes his gift for smooth talking might come in handy when tracking down a killer. Before long, Finn has his hands full keeping Claire out of trouble, because the two of them together create more sparks than her faerie dust ever could.



Expected release date: December 2013 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Tammy Falkner

Tammy Falkner lives on a farm in a lovely, sprawling little town in rural NC with her beekeeper husband and a house full of boys, a few dogs, and a cat or two (or five – who has time to count?). 
As half of the Lydia Dare team, she has co-written ten books, including the Westfield Wolves series and the Gentlemen Vampyre series. A huge fan of Regency England, she often wonders what other kinds of magical, mythical and strange creatures might live and interact within the ton. Exploring the theory that the fae can walk between Regency England and their own land, Tammy spends as much time as possible with the lords and ladies of society, horse-drawn carriages, and elegant balls. Now add to that some faeries, a little murder, a bit of mayhem, and a troublesome garden gnome, and you have her exciting new series. 
She hopes you enjoys her world as much as she does.

Also writes as Lydia Dare.


Monday, September 10, 2012

A Buzz-Worthy Review: Kiss of Steel by Bec McMaster (Adult)

(*Adult Content)

(London Steampunk #1)
by Bec McMaster 
Release date: September 4th, 2012
Published by: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Adult Steampunk, Historical Fiction, Paranormal, Romance
Format read: ARC

Summary

He craves her like no other...

Honoria Todd has no choice. 
Only in the dreaded Whitechapel district can she escape the long reach of the Duke of Vickers. But seeking refuge there will put her straight into the hands of Blade, legendary master of the rookeries. No one would dare cross him, but what price would he demand to keep her safe?

Ever since Vickers infected him with the craving, Blade has been quicker, stronger, almost immortal—and terrified of losing control of the monster within. 
Honoria could be his perfect revenge against the duke…
or the salvation he never dared to dream of.

MY REVIEW

I honestly don't know where to start, this book really exceeded my expectations. The author was able to uniquely combine quite a few genres - a paranormal, romantic, historical fiction with a few steampunk elements to it! I was blown away with Bec McMasters writing, unique characters and vampire...

Kiss of Steel takes place in the dark streets and mysterious fogs of London, where the poor are ruled by the blue-blood royals (humans infected with the vampire virus) and pay their taxes with pints of blood.
Honoria Todd is doing her best to keep her secrets and her little family together, but as hard as she tries to, she knows that her time is limited and that eventually her secrets will be discovered, and the enemy who hunts her will find her. Honoria is not a 'damsel in distress' by choice - she is strong, smart and very capable - but without her former social status, money and the proper care for her 'sick brother' - so when the local master, Blade, sends one of his people knocking on her door to bring her in for questioning, she has no choice but to go and hope that things work out, to her favor.
Blade, at first sight, looks brutal and there is no doubt as to why he is so feared. But Honoria does something to him that he has never felt in his whole existence. And he is determined to not only find out why, but wants to protect her... and, in his words, "make her mine."
The connection between Honoria and Blade is almost an instant kind of love, I say almost because of the pace of the story, not because of the typical 'light-switch' we see often. Every scene between these two was mesmerizing and entertaining, the banter was comical at times, and the attraction was steamy and written quite tastefully - definitely an adult read!

The story is told from both Honoria's and Blade's perspectives, it was so well written that you barely noticed the transition, you always knew who was speaking and thinking... though bits of the story were predictable, close to the end, there is a surprise and then things were left in the most perfect way! No loose ends, but with the possibility of a second book. Can't wait!




The second book to the London Steampunk Series, Heart of Iron
is set to be released on May 1st, 2013! 
Can't wait to read it!!!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Bec McMaster

Bec McMaster lives in a small town in country Victoria, Australia, and grew up with her nose in a book. A member of Romance Writers of America, she writes sexy, dark paranormals and steampunk romance. When not reading, writing or poring over travel brochures, she loves spending time with her very own hero or daydreaming about new worlds. 

Find Bec McMaster on


Thanks so much for stopping by today!
Happy reading :) 

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Welcome to "Grown-Up Sundays" #1: Brownies and Broomsticks by Bailey Cates

WELCOME TO "GROWN-UP SUNDAYS!!!"
This is my weekly meme were I will share my adult reads and reviews with you :)



A Magical Bakery Mystery 
by Bailey Cates 
Release date: May 1st, 2012
Publisher: Obsidian Mystery
Genre: Adult Paranormal and Mystery
Format read: Mass Paperback 

SUMMARY 
(from Goodreads) 

Katie Lightfoot's tired of loafing around as the assistant manager of an Ohio bakery. So when her aunt Lucy and uncle Ben open a bakery in Savannah's quaint downtown district and ask Katie to join them, she enthusiastically agrees.

While working at the Honeybee Bakery—named after Lucy's cat—Katie notices that her aunt is adding mysterious herbs to her recipes. Turns out these herbal enhancements aren't just tasty—Aunt Lucy is a witch and her recipes are actually spells!

When a curmudgeonly customer is murdered outside the Honeybee Bakery, Uncle Ben becomes the prime suspect. With the help of handsome journalist Steve Dawes, charming firefighter Declan McCarthy, and a few spells, Katie and Aunt Lucy stir up some toil and trouble to clear Ben's name and find the real killer.

MY REVIEW

What drew me to this book was the adorable cover! I had no idea what it was about but knew that it would contain delicious treats and some sort of magical theme to it. And I was right!

A quick and light read, Brownie and Broomsticks is the perfect combination of mystery, murder, magic and baked goods, with some memorable characters.
Katie, after working as an assistant manager at a high-stressed bakery in Ohio and breaking up with her fiancee, is now relocating to Savannah to work in her aunt and uncle's new bakery. She is independent, stubborn and quick-witted. It was fun to watch her adjust to her new life, meet the locals and get familiar with how things work around town.
Her Aunt Lucy is the sweetest lady that you could ever meet. And when her "book club" comes over for their meeting, things seem to get a bit weird around them... making everyone wonder if they're really reading all those books.
When a not-so-loved local and customer is murdered right in front of their bakery a week before opening day, Katie's uncle is the prime suspect and Katie is on the mission to find out who really did it.

There is hardly any romance in this book, although we do meet two very handsome potential interests - a persistent journalist who is definitely hiding something, and a very charming firefighter who is too good to pass up. But at the moment, Katie has sworn off men and is out to find herself first... is there more to her than just being a baker? It's time for her to sit down and figure out her family tree.

What I loved about this mystery is that it really kept me going around in circles. Every time I thought I knew who the real murderer was, proof would pop up that it wasn't. It really kept me going and I was really surprised to find out who it was.

I am really looking forward to reading more about Katie, her family and their bakery. If anything will happen with the potential love triangle that is forming. And what mischief Katie and her new coven will be getting into. And more recipes! Oh, did I forget to mention that there are a few recipes including in the back of the book, lol, so sorry! I can't wait to try the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies, which is Katie's favorite comfort food.

What I also didn't know is that Bailey Cates is also Cricket McRae, the author to the Home Crafting Series. Book 6 to this series will be released on November 8th, 2012.
However, there is no mention of book 2 to the Magical Bakery Mystery, yet. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Bailey Cates 

Bailey Cates believes magic is all around us if we only look for it. She studied philosophy, English and history and has held a variety of positions ranging from driver's license examiner to soap maker. She traveled the world as a localization program manager for Microsoft, but now sticks close to home where she writes two mystery series, tends to a dozen garden beds, bakes up a storm and plays the occasional round of golf.
Having apprenticed with a master herbalist for a year, she's prone to concocting teas and tinctures for family and friends from the stash of herbs stored in thecorner cabinet in her office. She owns a working spinning wheel and is on a first name basis with several alpacas and two sheep with questionable dispositions.

 
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