Review: Shameless Wonders

Shameless Wonders

A.P. Stephens

Series or Stand Alone: The White Shadow Saga, book two 

Release Date: October 2010

Publisher: Fanda Books

Pages: 432

Author Site: http://www.apstephens.com/

My Rating: 4.5/5

Source: Received for review from author

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

SHAMELESS WONDERS continues the quest of Randor Miithra, wizard and servant to the elf-gods, as he leads his followers in search of the missing moon, Beldas. Across the troubled lands of Londor, the shadows of a relentless darkness have reached the broken borders of many kingdoms. Evil forces seek to manipulate and enslave the land and its people, with enemies both new and old vowing to yield to no one until victory is had.

As Randor and his company hasten into the south toward the dark realm of Valadure, the origin of the world’s downfall, they experience firsthand the treacheries of evil. Yet in their search to restore balance to the world of Londor, they must overcome more than the banners of darkness that stand before them. As internal discord and tragedy drive the company members apart, it seems they are farther than ever from returning Londor to the peace and prosperity it once knew. Prophesies are realized, deceit is revealed, and dreams are cast asunder. Not all is what it seems to be.

With the greatest of evil in their midst, can Randor Miithra and his companions overcome the power of the one who holds the key to healing Londor? One night can change the fortunes of all.

Review:

Shameless Wonders is the second book in The White Shadow Saga that continues the epic search and recovery of the stolen moon of Londor. Randor Miithra, a wizard servant to the elf-gods, and his companions continue their journey that becomes more dangerous as each day passes. The troupe are on their way to Valadure, headig South, where they are stopped to help a town plagued by two uknown evils. One is a key to the missing moon Beldas, while the other seems to be an unstoppable force. To make matters worse their seems to be dissention within the ranks and the internal struggles the team have may end up being their very dowmfall.   

I was pleasantly surprised at how the characters and their development were treated this time around. I had a tough time warming up to some of the characters in the first book and I felt there were just some things that were lacking in the story. But of course, with every first book in a series or trilogy, the author is faced with the task of building a world and set of characters that is unknown to the reader. In Shameless Wonders however, the author was able to concentrate and dedicate more time to each character. And I’m happy to report that it paid off!

I noticed that each character’s personalities came out so easily through the pages. One can easily feel the exhaustion and frustration of the characters as they are tested numerous times throughout the book. The battles are long, difficult, and relentless in their occurrences. It was so easy to become battle weary right along with the characters. The precious few moments of rest and peace that they do get however are welcoming.

I’m sure you’ve noticed by now that I haven’t named any characters or gone into detail about them individually. There are a couple of reasons for that: (1) There’s a pretty big number of main characters in the story, (2) The author does some unexpected things with their storylines in Shameless Wonders, and (3) the review would be way too long if I gave each character their respective air time. Plus I feel it would totally spoil the fun of discovering who these people are! The missing moon is so important to the well being of Londor and its inhabitants and these characters are risking their lives for the people of Londor.

Shameless Wonders really surprised me. I was sucked into the story and I pouted when I came to the end. Why the pouty face? Well, of course I wanted the next book already! But the author also ends the book in a cliffhanger of sorts. Not as bad as it could have been but it definitely had me gritting my teeth in frustration and thinking “Damn you, Stephens!” Cliffhangers are both fun and entirely evil and I’m sure those tricky, tricky authors (and editors) know it.

Anywho, I think Fall 2011 is entirely too far away and I’m seriously contemplating bothering the author with “hurry up and finish” emails every now and then. But alas, I don’t want to annoy the poor guy =) Shameless Wonders is a really great addition to The White Shadow Saga. Its action-packed, emotional, engaging, and I promise you’ll want to continue on with the conclusive third book.



Q&A with A.P. Stephens

Please welcome A.P. Stephens back to P.S. I Love Books!

His first novel, The Stolen Moon of Londor (read my review here!), Book I in The White Shadow Saga, was released in October of 2009 and went on to be named one of the Top Books of 2009 by Fantasy Book Critic, as well as being recognized as one of the Top 50 Books of the Year by Conversations Live! radio. The novel was also nominated for the 2010 Parsec Award for Best Speculative Fiction.

The second book in the Saga, Shameless Wonders, published in October 2010 is his latest work and promises to be an even bigger and badder story than the first installment.

A.P. Stephens has been a guest at a few cons where he has sat on panels to discuss world building, the fantasy genre, as well as leading some panels on Self Publishing, being that Fanda Books is his own indie label, bring The White Shadow Saga to the great readers of the world.

Visit http://www.apstephens.com/ to learn more about The White Shadow Saga!

Welcome Back Aaron! Thanks so much for taking the time out to visit.

Thank you for having me back. Always a pleasure to work with you and your great site.

Tell us a little bit about your newest release: Shameless Wonders.

Shameless Wonders is Book 2 in The White Shadow Saga, an epic fantasy. It continues the quest of Randor Miithra, a wizard servant to the elf-gods, as he leads his company of companions on their search to recover the missing moon.

What was one of your favorite andleast favorite things about writing Shameless Wonders?

One of my favorite things about this work was the ability to continue the character development. The first book, I had to be more concerned about the readers never being in the world of Londor before. Since the characters were introduced and the lands revealed, I could spend more time giving the readers more insight and information about characters they are growing more familiar with. The thing I did not like was I was not able to get all of the story I originally planned to put in this book. I had to take off the last chapter due to book length. More pages means more costs for me, the publisher. But rest assured, that chapter will be one of the first chapters in the third and final book of the saga.

How involved were you with cover selection? Are you happy with the result?

I design my covers, sketch them out and I have my digital artist color it and add his own things to it. I think George Patsouras did a wonderful job on it.

If you had to do it all over again would you change anything in Shameless Wonders?

I am pleased with the way it came out. It is a stronger book than the first book and reveals a great deal of the story and has a larger dose of battles and character development.

If your life were made into a movie who would you like to see play you on the big screen?

Hmm…maybe John Cusack. He might be older than me, but people tell me all the time that he and I look the same.

What are some of your favorite things to do when given a break from the writing life and other work-related things?

I enjoy playing video games and watching movies. Video games and movies are some of my greatest influences when it comes to developing my own tales.

I’m always looking for books to add to my ginormous TBR (to be read) pile. What books are you currently reading or have read recently? Any good recommendations?

The last book I read was The Children of Hurin, by J.R.R. Tolkien. He is my favorite author and I try to read as much of his work whenever I can. When I am writing, I try to avoid reading books. I don’t want to be influenced by someone’s style, story ideas, etc.

 I know The White Shadow Saga is a planned trilogy, but you’re also working on some other projects other than the third book in the world of Londor. Can you tell us what we can look forward to from you next?

I have a new series that is beginning not too far off from the conclusion of The White Shadow Saga. Book 3 is slated for Fall 2011. The new series will start soon thereafter. It is the backstory of one of the characters in this trilogy.

It’s always a pleasure to have you here Aaron! Thanks again for stopping by.

Thank you once again for the opportunity.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for my review of the lastest book in The White Shadow Saga!

 

Book Arrivals

My neice (Jade) loves to play with my books. I hope that means she'll be interested in reading. She's 3, knows her ABC's and is somewhat interested in books right now. She was playing with my book arrivals last night so I included her in my photos =)

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For Review

The Unidentified Redhead :: Alice Clayton (Redhead series, book one)

(February 2010 - Omnific Publishing)

When Grace Sheridan returns to Los Angeles to become a working actor, it's a second shot at a life-long dream. With some help from her best friend and agent, that dream could become a reality, but at thirty-three, has Grace missed her chance at the big time? Will an unexpected sizzling romance with the entertainment industry's newest 'it' boy shine an uncomfortable spotlight on her life?

Alice Clayton spins a playful and erotic May to December romance in this, her debut novel. Clayton's funny, borderline neurotic heroine is perfect in her imperfections, and the off the charts sexual chemistry between her and her charming, yet blissfully unaware leading man are the true heart of The Unidentified Redhead. With laugh out loud dialogue and a super steamy romance that will get your heart racing, sneaking around in L.A. and dodging the Paparazzi has never been so fun.

The Redhead Revealed :: Alice Clayton (Redhead series, book two)

(September 2010 - Omnific Publishing)

As their careers catch fire, Grace and Jack -- everyone’s favorite foul-mouthed, funny, and feisty couple -- find themselves on opposite coasts. Grace has landed in New York City, where she loves being onstage again, particularly because she’s playing a fabulous character in a musical written by her old college flame, Michael. Their rekindled friendship makes exploring the city that much more fun.

Wait, it’s just friendship, right?
Meanwhile, in L.A., Jack can scarcely keep up with the swirling throngs of women who track him everywhere he goes, the endless press appearances, and the ridiculous rules his manager, Holly, keeps concocting for him -- all part of the buildup to the release of Time, his steamy new film.
Thank goodness for phone sex.

But even when their schedules allow them to connect, Grace and Jack must keep their relationship off the radar and away from paparazzi cameras. Sure, the sex is sensational, but can this duo survive swirling rumors, the demands of their chosen professions, Grace’s raging internal battles, and a whopping nine-year age difference?

Tick-tock, the clock is ticking. Isn’t it?
Alice Clayton brings the second installment of a tale told with her magical mix of humor and heat, so cuddle up under the sheets and flip on the Golden Girls. Grace and Jack are at it again.

Shameless Wonders :: A.P. Stephens (The White Shadow Saga, book two)

(October 2010 - Fanda Books)

SHAMELESS WONDERS continues the quest of Randor Miithra, wizard and servant to the elf-gods, as he leads his followers in search of the missing moon, Beldas. Across the troubled lands of Londor, the shadows of a relentless darkness have reached the broken borders of many kingdoms. Evil forces seek to manipulate and enslave the land and its people, with enemies both new and old vowing to yield to no one until victory is had. As Randor and his company hasten into the south toward the dark realm of Valadure, the origin of the world's downfall, they experience firsthand the treacheries of evil. Yet in their search to restore balance to the world of Londor, they must overcome more than the banners of darkness that stand before them. As internal discord and tragedy drive the company members apart, it seems they are farther than ever from returning Londor to the peace and prosperity it once knew. Prophesies are realized, deceit is revealed, and dreams are cast asunder. Not all is what it seems to be. With the greatest of evil in their midst, can Randor Miithra and his companions overcome the power of the one who holds the key to healing Londor? One night can change the fortunes of all.

----------

Won

The Raven Prince :: Elizabeth Hoyt (Princes trilogy, book one)

(November 2006 - Grand Central Publishing)

THERE COMES A TIME IN A LADY'S LIFE...
Widowed Anna Wren is having a wretched day. After an arrogant male on horseback nearly squashes her, she arrives home to learn that she is in dire financial straits. What is a gently bred lady to do?
WHEN SHE MUST DO THE UNTHINKABLE...
The Earl of Swartingham is in a quandary. Having frightened off two secretaries, Edward de Raaf needs someone who can withstand his bad temper and boorish behavior. Dammit! How hard can it be to find a decent secretary?

AND FIND EMPLOYMENT.
When Anna becomes the earl’s secretary, both their problems are solved. Then she discovers he plans to visit the most notorious brothel in London for his “manly” needs. Well! Anna sees red—and decides to assuage her “womanly” desires . . . with the earl as her unknowing lover.

**Thank you Marq from Love To Read For Fun

Hot Wheels and High Heels :: Jane Graves

(July 2007 - Grand Central Publishing)

Trophy wife Darcy McDaniel has just discovered that, thanks to her embezzling husband, her posh, upper-class life is gone for good.Now she's trading her suburban palace for a trailer park and her weekly salon appointments for a job.Darcy needs a new man--fast--one who'll keep her in the manner she darn well deserves.Problem is, the hottest prospect around is the my-way-or-the-highway hunk who's making off with her beloved Mercedes!Ex-cop turned repo man John Stark is sure that hiring the furious blonde in his headlights is a colossal mistake.He knows Darcy's high-maintenance, designer-labels-only type--after all, he's used to taking their cars.But he never expected this hellion to have the smarts and the spunk to go from receptionist to repo agent in record time...or to drive him insane with desire.She's the last thing this tall, dark, and dangerous loner needs...and everything he never knew he wanted.

**Thank you Marq from Love To Read For Fun

A Hint of Wicked :: Jennifer Haymore (Tristan Family series, book one)

(June 2009 - Grand Central Publishing)

CAUGHT BETWEEN DUTY AND DESIRE . . .
Sophie, the Duchess of Calton, has finally moved on. After seven years mourning the loss of her husband, Garrett, at Waterloo, she has married his best friend and heir, Tristan. Sophie gives herself to him body and soul. . . until the day Garrett returns from the Continent, demanding his title, his lands-and his wife.
TORN BETWEEN TWO HUSBANDS . . .
Now Sophie must choose between her first love and her new love, knowing that no matter what, her choice will destroy one of the men she adores. Will it be Garrett, her childhood sweetheart, whose loss nearly destroyed her once already? Or will it be Tristan, beloved friend turned lover, who supported her through the last, dark years and introduced her to a passion she had never known? As her two husbands battle for her heart, Sophie finds herself immersed in a dangerous game-where the stakes are not only love . . . but life and death.

A HINT OF WICKED

**Thank you Marq from Love To Read For Fun

Last Night's Scandal :: Loretta Chase (Carsington Brothers series, book five)

(July 2010 - Avon)

After surviving the perils of Egypt, Peregrine Dalmay, Earl of Lisle is back in London, facing the most dire threat of all: his irrational family....and Miss Olivia Wingate-Carsington. A descendent of notorious—but very aristocratic—swindlers, the delectable redhead has the ability to completely unhinge him, and a long history of dragging him into her scandalous schemes.

Olivia may be Society's darling, but she's aware a respectable future looms menacingly. And so when Lisle is forced to go on a family mission, she sees this as the perfect chance for one last adventure—even if it is with the one man in the world she can't wrap around her finger: but really, she only wants to help…

Which is why Lisle and Olivia find themselves in a gloomy Scottish castle inhabited by spiteful ghosts and craven murderers...and a shocking secret: the greatest peril of all may be burning within their own stubborn hearts.

**Thank you Kristi from The Story Siren

The White Shadow Saga: Book Two Announcement [Promo]

Recognize this pretty awesome cover?

I reviewed the fantasty quest novel a few months ago and I'm very excited to announce the 2nd book in the saga and it's release date!! Check out the trailer below...

Pretty snazzy 2nd cover huh? I think so! Stay tuned for more promos for SHAMELESS WONDERS by A.P. Stephens (October 2010) as it's release date gets closer. & Be sure to check out my review of the first book THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR by clicking the cover above!

For more information on The White Shadow Saga go to http://www.apstephens.com/.

Q&A with A.P. Stephens

I'd like to welcome A.P. Stephens to mis(h)takes today! I was very lucky to be contacted by him to read and review his debut fantasy THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR. He also agreed to an interview that provides some great insight into the novel.


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A little background info before we go on:

A.P. Stephens grew up in the suburb of Mesquite, TX. He attended Dallas County community colleges and progressed to the University of North Texas where he studied Creative Writing and English.

The foundations of his writing began in 1991 when a fellow classmate lent him a copy of The Lord of the Rings. With the combination of Tolkien, video games, music, and movies, the beginnings of his fantasy world, Londor, and its inhabitants took shape. His earlier years were devoted to martial arts, theater, and art.

THE WHITE SHADOW SAGA: THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR is a combination taken from his background in martial arts and theater, giving it an extra dose of action and character development.

When he is not writing, A.P. Stephens enjoys drawing, movies, reading, television, and video games.

He resides in Dallas, TX with his lovely wife.

THE WHITE SHADOW SAGA: THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR is now available in paperback and ebook forms. It was also named one of the Top Books of 2009 by Fantasy Book Critic.

You can visit his website here: http://www.apstephens.com/

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Me: I appreciate you stopping by to answer some questions :D

A.P.: Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to answer them on your site.

Me: Can you tell readers a little bit about THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR?

A.P.: The Stolen Moon of Londor is an epic fantasy tale about a world in peril when one of the twin moons disappears from the heavens. This causes the world to fall into sickness, chaos, and all out war. The story revolves around one of the elf god’s servants, Randor, as he leads an expedition party to investigate what happened to the moon before it is too late. Along the path, many obstacles lay ahead and there is plenty of action and adventure.

Me: Which of your characters would you say you are most like and why?

A.P.: Many of my characters have traits or pieces of me in them. I guess it depends on what type of mood I am in, really. When I am feeling creative, I tend to lean towards Lorn, if I get upset about something, then Malander comes out very quick. But when everything is calm, there isn’t just one I am like.

Me: What inspired you to create Londor and all of its inhabitants?

A.P.: Music is a big contributor to my world. I have a strange collection of music and various lyrics in the song would jump out and give me ideas. I also sometimes mishear lyrics and even though it might not be the right words, I will use what I thought I heard. My stories will have inspirations anywhere from Megadeth, Sarah McLachlan, Rufus Wainwright, Two Tons of Steel, and many others. Video games are also a big factor to my stories. Playing some great RPGs on the Super Nintendo gave me many ideas in creating my own fictional world. And there are games nowadays that spark tiny ideas to me.

Me: When did you first realize that you wanted to write?

A.P.: Up until 6th grade, I wanted to make a video game. I used to sit in class and draw characters (fighting game types, etc) and draw maps of levels for the games, laying out streets, buildings, etc. Then in 6th grade a kid came into my class and would watch me draw my characters. One day he asked me if I’ve ever read Lord of the Rings and I never have heard of it. He let me borrow his copy and I was hooked after that. I turned my drawings and such to fantasy after that point.

Me: What were some of the hardships you faced/are still facing by self-publishing?

A.P.: Self publishing comes with many negative connotations: unprofessional, not good enough to be published by the traditional means, no distribution, unedited, garbage, etc. Telling bookstores, libraries, review sites, etc that you are self published puts up a defensive wall with the person you are speaking to. The biggest thing I have seen from bookstores and libraries is that they think your book is not something they can order like a traditional book—but in my case they can. I made sure that I have distribution in place with the same places they can order any big publisher’s books from. That usually opens the way a bit more for me. Another thing about self publishing is that you are your own marketing person, public relations, inventory controller, etc, etc. You have to work hard and diligently to push yourself out there and some authors do not want to do this. There are some who do and I enjoy trying to push the book out there so readers all over the place can read it or learn about it. Doing all the various tasks of self publishing makes you learn about the business and I enjoy learning about it. I learn new things each day and everything I have learned will help me in the future, no matter who might publish my books.

Me: What book/s are you reading right now?

A.P.: Unfortunately, I do not have much time to read much these days. There are two reasons I would say: working a full-time job and then coming home to work another full-time job (self publishing duties and working on the next book) and I try not to read books while I am working on my book. I might subconsciously borrow ideas or the author’s writing style or I will begin reflecting on my own stories instead of writing them. Once I get the first draft of Book Two done, I will read a book or three to take a break. I do listen to some writing podcasts and an occasional audiobook while I am at work and listen to fellow authors who are on Podiobooks like I am.

Me: Can you share anything about Book Two that you’re currently working on?

A.P.: The next book is the second act in the trilogy and like many second acts of trilogies, they are dark. The world around Randor and company is slipping away faster than they imagined and their road ahead is filled with even greater difficulties and darkness. The action will be more intense, the set pieces will be bigger, and true evil will come across their path.

Me: If you could write a book about absolutely anything with any other author (dead or alive) what would it be about and who would you choose?

A.P.: Anyone who knows me would say I would choose J.R.R. Tolkien and as great as that would be, I think many other fantasy writers would say the same thing. I will go with another creator, though I do not know if he is classified as an author; he is a storyteller, however. I would like to do something with the creator of Metal Gear, Hideo Kojima. He has a great sense of telling an intricate tale and he has stellar action sequences. I would like to come in on a story with him and spice things up with my own flair.

Me: What does the A.P. stand for?

A.P.: Aaron Paul

Me: What’s your ideal writing environment like?

A.P.: I wrote the first book wherever I could find a quiet space and some coffee: like a bookstore, coffee shop, Denny’s, etc. I write now at my home at a desk with my coffee or tea and my headphones on listening to whatever music strikes me at the time.

Me: Anything you’d like to add?

A.P.: Book Two is scheduled for an October 2010 release and will be available in paperback and ebook, wherever these lovely items are sold. For Book One, you can find it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million, Powell’s, etc. The ebook is available for your Kindle, Nook, Sony Reader, iPhone, iTouch, or any phone capable of doing PDFs or ebooks. You can also find it at Mobipocket and on Smashwords. Book One is on iTunes and at Podiobooks.com as a free audio book.

For my website, please go to http://www.apstephens.com/ to view a sample chapter, find links to the audiobook, view artwork, read articles and short poems, and much more. And people can find me on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/apstephens and on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/whiteshadowsaga. I do follow and friend people back.

Me: Again, thank you so much for taking the time out to visit. I’m looking forward to the new adventures that will be featured in book two.

A.P.: Thank you for having me on your site. The questions were fun to answer. :)



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Click here to read my review for The Stolen Moon of Londor!

The Stolen Moon of Londor

The Stolen Moon of Londor

A.P. Stephens

Series or Stand Alone: The White Shadow Saga, book one

Release Date: September 2009

Publisher: Fanda Books

Pages: 296

Author Site: http://www.apstephens.com/

My Rating: 3.75/5

Source: Received from author for review

Synopsis [from goodreads.com]:

The era of peace among the elves, men, and dwarves comes to an end when one of Londor's twin moons disappears from the heavens. Without the moon's balancing effect, evil forces grow bold, and warfare, sickness, and chaos threaten life itself. Hearing the prayers of desperation that ride on the violent winds, the ancient wizard Randor Miithra, servant to the elf-gods, takes it upon himself to mend the world he has sworn to protect. The task will not be an easy one, though, for the wizard, too, has begun to feel the effects of the world's imbalance. As Randor struggles to maintain some semblance of his powers, he meets a secretive band of colorful characters from all walks of life, drawn together by a common goal: to find the stolen moon, whatever the cost. It does not take Randor and his motley company long to see that someone or something does not want the moon returned to the heavens. The road is perilous...the stakes have never been greater...will they find victory...or will they only find their deaths?

Review:

I'm not big with epic fantasy or quest type novels, not yet at least. I don't have any books like that under my belt that I can recall so I didn't really have any past experiences to base my thoughts on THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR. But I believe this book is a solid debut from an author that has a very promising future in my opinion.

There were a lot of things I liked about the novel. First thing being there was enough action in it to keep so many different types of readers satisfied. Sword fighting, paranormal creature-battles, magic-wielding, army-size battles, etc are abundant throughout the chapters. Some scenes definitely grabbed my attention and didn't let me go until the characters had a chance to breathe!

I also really enjoyed the creative world of Londor itself. Londor is a huge world inhabited by dwarfs, wizards, elves, and humans that is basically at the mercy of all those who battle on her lands. I was in awe of the inspiration that had to have hit the author to come up with some of the names, word usage, character background, and map-layout (which is partly included in the novel). As I was reading I kept thinking, "Where did A.P. Stephens come up with this stuff." Authors who can create entire new worlds for their readers deserve a great deal of respect and admiration and this author created a world I haven't been inside of before.

The writing style was overall pretty easy to follow. Although I did have a tough time getting into the story at the beginning. The number of characters and the abundance of "background" information didn't shock me since THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR is the first book in a planned series. However, I found myself not being able to connect with any of the characters really. All of the characters, villains included, have their strong points and their weaknesses. Strong points being the contrast between some of the characters. Some were extremely easy to both dislike and like personality wise. No two characters are alike, which is nice to have. The weaknesses vary from not enough information given by the author, to poor development overall. Either way, I am definitely looking forward to Londor's characters coming alive more in the next installment.

I think fantasy fans will enjoy this whether they are hardcore epic fantasy readers or not. THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR has a unique plot that I have yet to see around and it definitely makes me want more of the world and the characters in it. And yes, a moon is "stolen" or missing...I just have to know what happened to it!

Book Arrivals

----------

From Contests/Giveaways & Misc.:

Deadtown :: Nancy Holzner

(Thank you Ivy from BookReaderTimes)

They call it Deadtown: the city's quarantined section for its inhuman and undead residents. Most humans stay far from its borders -- but Victory Vaughn, Boston's only professional demon slayer, isn't exactly human...

Vicky's demanding job keeping the city safe from all manner of monsters is one reason her relationship with workaholic lawyer (and werewolf) Alexander Kane is in constant limbo. Throw in a foolhardy zombie apprentice, a mysterious demon-plagued client, and a suspicious research facility that's taken an unwelcome interest in her family, and Vicky's love life has as much of a pulse as Deadtown's citizens.

But now Vicky's got bigger things to worry about. The Hellion who murdered her father ten years ago has somehow broken through Boston's magical protections. The Hellion is a ruthless force of destruction with a personal grudge against Vicky, and she's the only one who can stop the demon before it destroys the city and everyone in it.

Pleasure Unbound :: Larissa Ione

(Book one in the Demonica series)

(Thank you Larissa from Larissa's Life!!)

In a place where ecstasy can cost you your life . . .

She's a demon-slayer who hungers for sensual pleasure-but fears it will always be denied her. Until Tayla Mancuso lands in a hospital run by demons in disguise, and the head doctor, Eidolon, makes her body burn with unslakable desire. But to prove her ultimate loyalty to her peers, she must betray the surgeon who saved her life.

Two lovers will dare to risk all.

Eidolon cannot resist this fiery, dangerous woman who fills him with both rage and passion. Not only is she his avowed enemy, but she could very well be the hunter who has been preying upon his people. Torn between his need for the truth and his quest to find his perfect mate before a horrific transformation claims him forever, Eidolon will dare the unthinkable-and let Tayla possess him, body and soul . . .

Four Dukes and a Devil :: Elaine Fox, Jeaniene Frost, Cathy Maxwell, Sophia Nash, Tracy Anne Warren

(Thank you Jackie from Literary Escapism!)

Fall in love with the unpredictable and irresistible dukes (and one dog named Duke) of Four Dukes and a Devil. Join New York Times bestselling authors Cathy Maxwell, Jeaniene Frost, and Tracy Anne Warren, along with USA Today bestselling author Elaine Fox and RITA® Award winner Sophia Nash, for tales of noble danger and devilish desire.

Delicate young ladies must be protected from him.

First he steals her clothes, then he steals her heart.

Most would be terrified of this powerful vampire - but not him.

He's "the catch of the century". . . but she's the only one he can't have.

A young miss demands a kiss. But he won't rest once she's touched her lips to his.

With four dukes and one devil, there's no limit on love.

Stray :: Rachel Vincent

(Book one in the Werecats series)

(Thank you again Jackie!)

There are only eight breeding female werecats left . . .

And I am one of them.

I look like an all-American grad student. But I am a werecat, a shape-shifter, and I live in two worlds.

Despite reservations from my family and my Pride, I escaped the pressure to continue my species and carved out a normal life for myself. Until the night a Stray attacked.

I'd been warned about Strays -- werecats without a Pride, constantly on the lookout for someone like me: attractive, female, and fertile. I fought him off, but then learned two of my fellow tabbies had disappeared.

This brush with danger was all my Pride needed to summon me back . . . for my own protection. Yeah, right. But I'm no meek kitty. I'll take on whatever -- and whoever -- I have to in order to find my friends. Watch out, Strays -- 'cause I got claws, and I'm not afraid to use them . . .

Drawn Into Darkness :: Annet McCleave

(Book one in the Soul Gatherer series)
(Thank you again Jackie!)

Serving a five-hundred-year sentence as a Soul Gatherer-one who battles demons for the souls of the dead-Lachlan MacGregor keeps his distance from humans. That is, until the lovely Rachel Lewis knocks on his door, begging for help. As they struggle to rescue her daughter from the clutches of a powerful demon, Lachlan finds himself increasingly drawn to the artistic single mother. But when Death assigns him an unbearable task, he's left wondering who will provide more for his soul.

The Stolen Moon of Londor :: A.P. Stephens

(Book one in the White Shadow saga)

(Received for review)

The era of peace among the elves, men, and dwarves comes to an end when one of Londor's twin moons disappears from the heavens…..Without the moon's balancing effect, evil forces grow bold, and warfare, sickness, and chaos threaten life itself.

Hearing the prayers of desperation that ride on the violent winds, the ancient wizard Randor Miithra, servant to the elf-gods, takes it upon himself to mend the world he has sworn to protect. The task will not be an easy one, though, for the wizard, too, has begun to feel the effects of the world's imbalance. As Randor struggles to maintain some semblance of his powers, he meets a secretive band of colorful characters from all walks of life, drawn together by a common goal: to find the stolen moon, whatever the cost. It does not take Randor and his motley company long to see that someone or something does not want the moon returned to the heavens.

The road is perilous….the stakes have never been greater….will they find victory…or will they only find their deaths?

Lips Touch: Three Times :: Laini Taylor

(Won from Teenreads.com)

Three tales of supernatural love, each pivoting on a kiss that is no mere kiss, but an action with profound consequences for the kissers' souls:

Goblin Fruit: In Victorian times, goblin men had only to offer young girls sumptuous fruits to tempt them to sell their souls. But what does it take to tempt today's savvy girls?

Spicy Little Curses: A demon and the ambassador to Hell tussle over the soul of a beautiful English girl in India. Matters become complicated when she falls in love and decides to test her curse.

Hatchling: Six days before Esme's fourteenth birthday, her left eye turns from brown to blue. She little suspects what the change heralds, but her small safe life begins to unravel at once. What does the beautiful, fanged man want with her, and how is her fate connected to a mysterious race of demons?

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From Paperbackswap.com:

In The Hand of the Goddess :: Tamora Pierce

(Book two in the Song of the Lioness series)

Sent north to fight the marauding Tusaine, Alanna is swept into a world of danger and intrigue. She proves herself in battle, but she must uncover Duke Roger's secret before facing the terror of "The Ordeal", the ceremony that will make her a knight - or destroy her.

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From B&N/Purchased:

The Lightning Thief :: Rick Riordan

(Book one in the Percy Jackson and the Olympains series)

Percy Jackson is a good kid, but he can't seem to focus on his schoolwork or control his temper. And lately, being away at boarding school is only getting worse-Percy could have sworn his pre-algebra teacher turned into a monster and tried to kill him. When Percy's mom finds out, she knows it's time that he knew the truth about where he came from, and that he go to the one place he'll be safe. She sends Percy to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods (on Long Island), where he learns that the father he never knew is Poseidon, God of the Sea. Soon a mystery unfolds and together with his friends -- one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena -- Percy sets out on a quest across the United States to reach the gates of the Underworld (located in a recording studio in Hollywood) and prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.

The Sea of Monsters :: Rick Riordan

(Book two in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series)

After a summer spent trying to prevent a catastrophic war between the Greek gods, Percy Jackson's seventh grade school year seems unnervingly quiet. His biggest problem is dealing with his new friend, Tyson -- a six-foot-three, mentally challenged homeless kid who follows Percy everywhere, making it hard for Percy to have any "normal" friends.

But things don't stay quiet for long. Percy soon discovers there is trouble at Camp Half Blood: the magical borders that protect Half-Blood Hill have been poisoned by a mysterious enemy, and the only safe haven for demigods is on the verge of being overrun by mythological monsters. To save the camp, Percy needs the help of his best friend, Grover, who has been taken prisoner on an island somewhere in the Sea of Monsters, the dangerous waters Greek heroes have sailed for millennia. Only today, the Sea of Monsters goes by a new name . . . The Bermuda Triangle.

Percy must retrieve the Golden Fleece from the Island of the Cyclopes by the end of the summer or Camp Half Blood will be destroyed. But first, Percy will learn a stunning new secret about his family -- one that makes him question whether being claimed as Poseidon's son is an honor or simply a cruel joke.

The Titan's Curse :: Rick Riordan

(Book three in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series)

When the goddess Artemis goes missing, she is believed to have been kidnapped.And now it's up to Percy and his friends to find out what happened. Who is powerful enough to kidnap a goddess? They must find Artemis before the winter solstice, when her influence on the Olympian Council could swing an important vote on the war with the titans. Not only that, but first Percy will have to solve the mystery of a rare monster that Artemis was hunting when she disappeared -- a monster rumored to be so powerful it could destroy Olympus forever.