Contents of blog copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2023
I've been gone a while. I started reading fanfiction to escape and I got sucked in an abyss.

I have no idea if someone else is hosting similar challenges. I just grabbed some of what I have hosted before.

Here's to a happy year of great reading
Jan2023: Not much has changed. Writing a fanfiction now O_o as well as reading but I bought 7 new books in December and hope to get those read soon. Crossing fingers about adding challenges (late!)

Saturday, June 29, 2013

Library Books Read-a-Thon Wrap-Up


Library Books Read-a-Thon
June 22 - June 28

hosted at Rachael Turns Pages

Goal of this Read-a-Thon: To read as many library books as possible. Heck, just read as many books as possible.


~Books Checked Out during RaT~

The Dwarves by Markus Heitz
Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh returned unfinished
The Heavy by Dara-Lynn Weiss
Homeland by R.A. Salvatore ~ returned unfinished
Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier ~ returned unfinished
The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick
The Right Hand by Derek Haas ~ returned unread
Sleep Disorders for Dummies
State of the Onion by Julie Hyzy ~ returned unread
The Sugar Blockers Diet by Rob Thompson, M.D. (reading)
Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Subterranean by James Rollins ~ finished
Killing Floor by Lee Child
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr.
The Starch Solution by John A. McDougall, M.D. 




~Books "In Transit" or waiting~
The county system is pretty big so it may take a week for these to actually get to my local library and on the shelf waiting for me.

Blackberry Summer by ReaAnneThayne ~ waiting for me
Man in the Empty Suit by Sean Ferrell ~ waiting for me
The Low-Starch Diabetes Solution by Rob Thompson and Dana Carpender



~Books Read~
(Title by Author ~ own/library/review)
Fatal Error by Colleen Thompson ~ own
That Old Flame of Mine by J. J. Cook ~ own
Subterranean by James Rollins ~ library
Two of a Kind by Susan Mallery ~ own
The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh by Stephanie Laurens ~ own

~*~ 5 books and 1,870 pages ~*~



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Library Books Read-a-Thon Starting Line and Updates Post



Library Books Read-a-Thon
June 22 - June 28

hosted at Rachael Turns Pages

Sign- up here




Goal of this Read-a-Thon: To read as many library books as possible.

Rachael's not going to be picky, if you want to read your own books go ahead. (Good thing, I've got a huge TBR pile in my library.


~Books Currently Checked Out~
some of these have been checked out long enough that I can't renew them or they have holds.

The Dwarves by Markus Heitz
Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh (reading)
The Heavy by Dara-Lynn Weiss
Homeland by R.A. Salvatore
Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier
The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick
The Right Hand by Derek Haas
Sleep Disorders for Dummies
State of the Onion by Julie Hyzy
The Sugar Blockers Diet by Rob Thompson, M.D. (reading)

updated to add: 
Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Subterranean by James Rollins (reading)
Killing floor by Lee Child
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr.
The Starch Solution by McDougall


~Books Waiting at the library for Me~

Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Subterranean by James Rollins
Killing floor by Lee Child
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr.
The Starch Solution by McDougall


~Books "In Transit"~
The county system is pretty big so it may take a week for these to actually get to my local library and on the shelf waiting for me. ~ two arrived, two more on their way

Blackberry Summer by ReaAnneThayne
Killing floor by Lee Child
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr.
Man in the Empty Suit by Sean Ferrell
The Low-Starch Diabetes Solution by Rob Thompson and Dana Carpender





copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Planning to be mostly unplugged . . .


It's kind of funny in a sad sort of way. Some of the other bloggers have more time during the summer months to read/blog and I've found that I have less time! I really should remember that when challenges/read-a-thons come up :-) I've signed up for three read-a-thons and bout of books and don't believe I'll be doing much reading with any of them. sigh

Rachel is hosting her very first read-a-thon and it's all about Library Books. This one starts in a couple of days and while I have four books "in transit" and a stack at home I don't know if I'll get them read during the time frame.

There are three hosts for Once Upon a read-a-thon.

Michelle's High Summer Read-a-Thon partially takes place during vacation time and I don't know how much reading I'll get done.

And Bout of Books 8.0 is coming up in August.

I may have beginning and ending posts for each of them. I may or may not have Monday's regular post or reviews. I'll update challenges but won't post every book. I'm not even going to spend as much time on Facebook/farmville or Pinterest!

I have running plans, redecorating plans, getting my back healthy plans and vacation plans.

Have a great summer, and. . .

Happy Reading,

Gina, a book dragon
because books are a treasure worth protecting


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Spring Reading Thing Wrap-up

Spring Reading Thing
Reading Challenge Wrap-Up
March 20 to June 20

hosted by Sandra at The Musings of a Book Addict filling in for Katrina at Callapidder Days

Briefly here is what you need to do to be a part of Spring Reading Thing 2013:
  • Make a list of books you want to read or finish reading this spring. Feel free to modify the list as you go along if it isn't working for you. Check.
  • Write a blog post containing your list and submit it to this post using the Mr. Linky on the sign-up page. Check.
  • Check out other participants' lists and add to your own to-read-someday pile!
  • You may begin reading on the 20th! Check.
  • Write a post about your challenge experience in June, telling us all about your experience and whether you reached our goals. REMEMBER: this is a low-pressure, stress free challenge that should be fun. As long as you do some reading this spring (and enjoy it!) that's good enough for me.

Reading List/Goals
3 review books ~ 2 down
3 library books ~ check
3 TBR books (pre-2013) ~ 1 down
3 non-fiction ~ check

I'm sure I'll be reading more than 12 books this spring but I'm not sure if they'll fit the requirements!
6-6: so far there are 36 books read and I still have SIX to go!

Books Read for Challenge

library ~ The Wanderer by Robyn Carr ~ quick thoughts
library ~ Savor the Danger by Lori Foster ~ quick thoughts
library ~ The Heart of a Hero by Janet Chapman ~ quick thoughts
library ~ The Extra-Ordinary Princess Carolyn Q. Ebbitt ~ quick thoughts 

review book ~ Sand Castle Bay by Sherryl Woods ~ quick thoughts
review book ~ Wind Chime Point by Sherryl Woods ~ quick thoughts
review book ~ Sea Glass Island by Sherryl Woods ~ quick thoughts

TBR/library ~ Crystal Gardens by Amanda Quick
TBR ~ Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery
TBR ~ The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After by Julia Quinn

non-fiction ~ The ABC's of Freezer Cooking by KM Logan ~ quick thoughts
non-fiction ~ A Poppy Is to Remember by Heather Patterson ~ quick thoughts
non-fiction ~ The Gift of Running by Dr. P. Mark Taylor ~ quick thoughts

Do you really want a list?  Okay, you asked for it! I've put it after "Reading Experience" so you can stop when it gets too long without missing anything important.

Reading Experience
Totally forgot! I did go through a reading slump, at least as far as qualifying books go. I did read several online serials.

Savor the Danger: not sure if I started before the 20th or not, guess I should read another library book. Done.

The Heart of a Hero: started late one night and finished it before going to bed but dang, now I've got to wait for the next in the series!

The Wanderer: this one took me a couple of days but I'm glad books 2 & 3 come out this year.

It's June now and I've still got six books to read that qualify!

Just One Kiss is both a TBR and a new purchase. I put it in my shopping cart in December last year when I found out about it but didn't buy it until this month when it came out.


Other Books Read during Time Period 

~ yes, some of them are short stories but they all have their own isbn/equivalent and total 9,517 pages 

Chaps and Hope by Bailey Bradford
Lock and Key by Sasha Devlin
Working it Out by Sean Michael
Getting Real by Christiane France
Leaving Home by T. A. Chase
White Knight and Black Fur by Joyee Flynn
Rumble and Churr by Joyee Flynn
Elder and the Youngest by Joyee Flynn
Home Sweet Home by T. A. Chase
Halfway There by Susan Mallery
With This Kiss, part one by Eloisa James
Loving a Lost Lord by Mary Jo Putney
Never Less Than a Lady by Mary Jo Putney
The Lady Most Likely by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, Connie Brockway 
With This Kiss, part two by Eloisa James
The Carpenter and the Actor by RJ Scott
The Fireman and the Cop by RJ Scott
Going Down by Cassandra Gold
Three Little Words by Allison Cassatta
The Teacher and the Soldier by RJ Scott
Back Home by RJ Scott
With This Kiss, part three by Eloisa James
William's House by Amber Kell
Temporary Mark by Kim Dare
A Sticky Wicket in Bollywood by T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes
Needing Seth by Shawn Lane
Defending the Duchess by Rachelle McCalla
Mr. Putter and Tabby Spin the Yarn by Cynthia Rylant
Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett
Watch Me by Carol Lynne
Threadbare Gypsy Souls by T. A. Chase
Son of Death by Nikki McCoy
Master of Wrath by Nikki McCoy
Blue Christmas by Lorraine Bartlett
Chasing the King of the Mountains by T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes
Gordon the Giraffe by Bruce Brown
One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand
Black List by Brad Thor
Ropes and Dreams by Bailey Bradford
Breaking the Devil by Bailey Bradford
Thankful by Lissa Matthews


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #79: Sea Glass Island (more sweet)

Sea Glass Island
Ocean Breeze #3
Sherryl Woods

9780778314462
Mira
June 2013
378 pages
print
Age range: 14+
 

romance
source: private library
(Amy wanted to send me the ebook but I bought the print so it would match the other two books she sent me to review)

Grade: B+


With her two younger sisters heading for the altar, will Samantha Castle exchange old dreams for new ones? Lately she'd rather be on the North Carolina coast with family than in New York with agents and actors. Though she vows not to let her teenage crush on Ethan Cole influence her decision, it's hard to ignore her feelings for the local war hero.

Ethan lost more than his leg in Afghanistan. He lost his belief in love. Even being surrounded by couples intent on capturing happily-ever-after won't open this jaded doctor's heart. It's going to take a sexy, determined woman—one who won't take no for an answer.

~*~*~
I'd like to say this is all about Samantha. About her lost love of acting, the high school crush that she never got over, her love of family. Except, Emily hasn't gotten married yet. Samantha is Maid of Honor and Ethan is Best Man. They are consistently thrown together because of wedding stuff, add in a meddling Grandmother who just wants to see her girls happy and you have a LOT of drama.

Still it is Samantha's story so while the wedding is a "character" it is Samantha's viewpoint we see it from.

I'm just at 200 pages and so far their Dad has had some very insightful comments. The love the sisters have for each other really shows through. I'm really looking forward to finishing the book but am sad that the trilogy will be over.

back to reading. . . .

I thought the book wasn't totally about Samantha and Ethan. Turns out that while Emily's wedding and a whole lot more are happening, Samantha and Ethan are up to their necks in almost everything.

I love the twists, the unexpected situations, the interactions between friends, family and town folk.

Ms. Woods does leave us hanging about a couple of things concerning B.J. but I'm very satisfied with the trilogy.

As for sex. . . it does happen, over halfway through, after tension for most of the book but it isn't in your face or pages and pages of it.



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Key Word
Spring Reading Thing
52 in 52
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #77: Breaking the Devil (NSFW)

Breaking the Devil
Bailey Bradford

978-1-78184-315-4
Total-e-Bound
2013
127 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+
 
male/male romance
source: private library

Grade: B


Mack has a fight ahead of him if he wants to break the red-haired devil who’s haunted him for so long…

Mack Wilson gave his heart and virginity to the only man he swore he’d ever love. Justin threw that love back at him a day later, mocking Mack and his feelings. Mack never got past it, or Justin’s abandonment. Justin left the day after he and Mack made love, and over a decade later, Mack gets the shock of his life when he’s watching a wild, beautiful untamed red stallion throw a hell of a hissy fit in the corral. The horse reminds him of Justin. Mack is still raw from the pain, never having got past it.

Then Justin is there, ripping away the bandages of their past and pulling all the hurt and anger out of Mack, refusing to let Mack run him off. Refusing to let Mack go.

Mack hates Justin—doesn’t he? Or will he listen to Justin and give a chance to try to make amends? Can he make amends, when there’s someone waiting to tear them apart—again?

~*~*~
The heartache and the anger leaches off the pages. The love, sex and understanding come through just as strong. There is a fabulous twist and another one out of left field.  My only complaint is there isn't enough of the horse in the story but that may be my cowgirl-heart speaking.

I'm hoping this is the start of a series.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
m/m romance
ebook
Monthly Mix-up Mania




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #76: Ropes and Dreams (NSFW)

Ropes and Dreams
Mossy Glenn Ranch #2
Bailey Bradford

978-1-78184-372-7
Total-e-Bound
June 2013
136 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+
 
male/male romance, D/s
source: private library

Grade: B-


Ian McCain’s always been one cold, hard man, but a sexy little cook is about to melt his heart.

Drake loves his job as a cook at the Mossy Glenn Ranch. He just wishes he wasn’t scared out of his mind. His ex has him convinced he’s never going to be loved again, so he vows to remain alone.

Officer Ian McCain doesn’t play well with others—unless he’s got a whip or paddle in his hand and a sub at his feet. Control is all he’s had for years now, and he doesn’t think he’s capable of having a relationship.

Then he pulls up at the Mossy Glenn and sees a sexy man with a cute puppy on a leash. From that moment on, Drake might as well have Ian on a leash too, or at least his heart. Ian breaks down Drake’s walls almost as fast as Drake destroys his.

But their chance for a happy life together is something they’re both going to have to fight for as Drake faces his fears and Ian faces losing everything.

~*~*~
This one had lots of sex but it was also full of understanding and love. And bullets.

Book two continues with puppy training and police reports. Ian and Drake find friends in unlikely places and surprises both good and bad.

I'm still wondering what's up with Salt. Maybe his story is next. Whoever is next, I'll be buying that one too.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
m/m romance
ebooks
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania





copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, June 17, 2013

Happy Monday

Mailbox Monday is a place to share all the wonderful books that have come to live in your home; print, electronic and audio. Started by Marcia of The Printed Page, the mailbox is currently on tour. Check it out so you know where to go next month.

Thank you to May's host:
4 the Love of Books.

June's host is Bellezza at Dolce Bellezza



Received for Review:



Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:
Quinn's Woman by Susan Mallery (with a bonus book by Sarah Mayberry)
Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery ~ read ;-)
Forever by Jacquelyn Frank
Mission Compromised by Oliver L. North
Like Dandelion Dust by Daren Kingsbury
Star Ka'at by Andre Norton
Steel Magic by Andre Norton
Plague by H.W. "Buzz" Bernard



added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Key Out of Time by Andre Norton
Cats, Daffodils & Dragonflies: Mystical Nature Poems (1987-2005) by Laura Stamps
A Vampire's Kiss: Book One of the Manigault Vampires by Laura Stamps
The Faceless One By Mark Onspaugh (pre-ordered/Oct delivery)

Also went shopping through the free section, added a bunch then clicked Pin It
(still not finished pinning all of them)



Current Library books at the house:

State of the Onion by Julie Hyzy
Homeland by R. A. Salvatore
The Sugar Blockers Diet by Rob Thompson, MD
The Dwarves by Markkus Heitz
Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh
The Heavy by Dara-Lynn Weiss
Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier
The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick
The Right Hand by Derek Haas
What Do I Eat Now? (non-fiction/Diabetes)
Sleep Disorders for Dummies


I have no idea where I'm at anymore with the rest of them....I've got over 30 books on request, most delayed.



What are you Reading?


A weekly Monday meme hosted by Shelia at Book Journey. Post what you read last week and what you're planning to read this week then link to Shelia's post. Then visit, visit,visit! She has a comment contest going on each week tied to the meme.

Finished:
A Poppy Is to Remember by Heather Patterson
Chasing the King of the Mountains by  T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes
Gordon the Giraffe by Bruce Brown
Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery
One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand
Black List by Brad Thor

Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
What the Duke Desires by Sabrina Jeffries
Cinder and Ella by Melissa Lemon
The Reluctant Santa by Sylvia McDaniel
Sea Glass Island by Sherryl Woods
Black List by Brad Thor


Next up:
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead




Reviewed:




Did Not Finish, may try again later:



Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Happy Father's Day

Any man can be a father but it takes a special
kind of man to be a Dad.



God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
the calm of a quiet sea,
the generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
the joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
then God combined these qualities.
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete.
And so, He called it . . . DAD

~Author Unknown


I'm thankful for the Dad I have and that the man I married is a great Dad too. I hope you have a great Dad in your life.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Friday, June 14, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #75: Black List

Black List
Scot Harvath
Brad Thor

9781439193020
Pocket Books
May 2013 (hardcover: 2012)
443 pages
tall Mass Market Paperback
Age range: 18+ (I'd have let my 8th grader read it but he was reading Rainbow Six by Tom Clancy at the time)
 
Thriller (Espionage)
source: private library

Grade: A


Somewhere . . . deep inside the United States government is a closely guarded list. Once your name is on the list, it doesn’t come off . . . until you’re dead.

Someone . . . has just added counterterrorism operative Scot Harvath’s name. Somehow . . . Harvath must evade assassination long enough to untangle who has targeted him and why.

Somewhere, someone, somehow . . . can put all the pieces together. But Harvath must get to that person before the United States suffers the most withering terrorist attack ever conceived.

~*~*~
There is an interesting author's note . . .
All of the technology contained in this novel is based on systems currently deployed, or in the final stages of development, by the United States government and its partners.
all that data gathering is for our own good of course.

This book is frighteningly realistic and those that try to say anything will come across as paranoid.

What would happen if you were accused of being a threat to the United States simply because you had a couple months supply of food? The reason you were targeted? You walked through a mall looking like you were searching for something and had a higher than normal heartbeat.

The surveillance happening in this book is too scary for words. The power one company/man can have is beyond belief but so realistic I want to start looking for that private island. Too bad I won't get internet or mail service. Oh, wait, that's one two of the things they're taking note of.

I'll just keep reading and keep my head down, better to avoid the cameras that way. Pay cash and be careful of what you search for. Remember, it isn't always friends looking at your Facebook account or reading your Twitter feed.

This may be fiction but it's just too realistic and current not to be aware of.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Genre/sub-genre
Genre Variety
Color Coded
Colorful






copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Wicked Wildfire Wrap-up

Wicked Wildfire
Read-a-Thon
Wrap-up

A Big Thank You to April & Tabitha at My Shelf Confessions for hosting this great read-a-thon!

Twitter: #WWReadathon

starting line and update post, where you can read daily notes.


Days of Read-a-Thon: 8
Days spent reading: 8
Total books: 8 (Plus, the first three chapters (44 pages) of Star Ka'at by Andre Norton, reading level 5.4)
Total pages: 2,013 and 44
Challenges: Title Scramble, Cover Lover
Twitter Updates: yes
Twitter Party/chats: no
Titles:
The Gift of Running by Dr. P. Mark Taylor
Crystal Gardens by Amanda Quick
Chasing the King of the Mountains by T.A. Chase and Devon
A Poppy Is to Remember by Heather Patterson
Gordon the Giraffe by Bruce Brown
Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery 
One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand
Black List by Brad Thor



Breakdown: 3 - ebooks :: 2 - children's books :: 2 - non-fiction :: 1 - alternative romance :: 2 - contemporary romance :: 1 - romantic suspense :: 1 Thriller

Plus, the first three chapters (44 pages) of Star Ka'at by Andre Norton, reading level 5.4.



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thursday, June 13, 2013

A Shoe Challenge



Wear it or Toss it
 Shoe Challenge
June 13, 2013 to June 12, 2014


hosted by Hanna at Booking in Heels

read more about the challenge and why she's doing it, here







The idea is simple. Wear every pair of shoes that you own, at least once, during the next twelve months. Pictures must be taken as proof and shoes must be worn outside somewhere. Walking to the mailbox doesn't count. If the shoes are not worn during that time, donate them or toss them.

The hard part to this is that summer is here. Summer means wearing the same pair of flip-flops every where. The challenge is a great idea for me since I have shoes I haven't worn in so long, they're dusty! Might as well clear out as I'm cleaning up.

Not sure about the pictures...maybe a weekly post with the books I've read? Yikes, now you'll know how often I don't go farther than the mailbox!


updated Nov 5
It is getting cold here so I'm finally wearing something more than the same pair of sandals! 

Saved: sandals (flip flops), black dress flats, brown half boots, Brooks running shoes.

Tossed: 3 pairs black dress shoes (2 flats, 1 heeled), 3 pairs sandals (1 flip flops, 2 Dr. Scholl's - yikes, I think these are 30 years old!)

There are also six pairs of shoes in the donation pile (2 boots, 1 sandals-not flip flops, 2 dressy heels, 1 casual flats)

I don't think I've made much of a dent but there are 12 fewer pairs of shoes in my closet!

. . . still no pictures


update Jul 1:
No more progress on shoes but small progress in other areas. I'll get back to the closet, eventually!



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #73: Just One Kiss (sexy)

Just One Kiss
Fool's Gold
Susan Mallery

9780373777600
Harlequin
June 2013 (4th?)
376 pages
Mass Market Paperback
Age range: 16+
some sex and lots of hot kisses

Contemporary Romance
source: private library

Grade: B+


He won't hesitate to put his life on the line…but will he ever risk his heart?

Falling for Justice Garrett was a high point in Patience McGraw's otherwise awkward adolescence. Even after he disappeared, Patience never forgot the boy who captured her heart. Now he's back in Fool's Gold, California, and her passion for him is as strong as ever. But how can she trust that he won't abandon her again—and her daughter, too?

When bodyguard Justice Garrett was a young man, witness protection brought him to this idyllic town and he never forgot its warmth, or the sweet beauty of his childhood friend. He's returned to open a defense academy, and the Patience he once knew is all grown up. He can't resist her smile, or her curves. But Justice's past doesn't make him husband, or father, material.

Patience and Justice think they'll succumb to just one kiss… Then one more… Okay, just one night together. But they might learn that falling in love is beyond anyone's control.

~*~*~
Welcome to Fool's Gold. Again. This is something like the 11th book in the series and while I like to read book one first, you could start with this one. You'll miss the hits/misses of the relationships from prior books but the main story is about Patience and Justice. About dreams coming true, heartbreak and redemption. There are just enough hints of stories to come to keep you looking for the next book. I personally am looking forward to Felicia's

I think you find you like it here.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
Spring into Reading (on wish list 12-12)
Monthly Mix-up Mania
A to Z
Contemporary Romance
In the Middle




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #74: One Day in Apple Grove (sexy)

One Day in Apple Grove
Welcome to Apple Grove
C. H. Admirand

978-1402269028
Sourcebooks Casablanca
June 2013
309 pages
Mass Market Paperback (and ebook)
Age range: 16+
 
romance (Small Town Contemporary)
source: private library

Grade: B


Caitlin Mulcahy loves her family. She really does. But sometimes they can drive her to her last shred of sanity—from her dad ("I'm not meddling, I just want what's best for you") to her eight-months-pregnant older sister to her younger sister, who will do just about anything to avoid real work. Cait just needs to get away, even if for only an hour.

When she sees someone in need of help on the side of the road, of course she's going to pull over. She might even be able to fix his engine—after all, the Mulcahy family is a handy bunch. She's not expecting that former Navy medic Jack Gannon and a little black puppy named Jameson will be the ones who end up rescuing in her...

~*~*~
Cait is the middle child and this is her story. It is also the story of a small town and of a man with PTSD. It is a romance.

Wait? Romance and PTSD? Yes. It has always been around, called several things, talked about in hushed whispers-if at all. This books brings it all out into the open.

So, yes, this is a romance in small-town America. About a girl with dreams of working with wood (as in furniture) but works as a handyman in the family business. About a man, a doctor, who comes back home to take over his father's practice. A man who didn't plan on ever coming home. A man with issues, a girl with issues, how they deal with them together.

And a little black puppy.

Jack didn't plan on falling in love, didn't want to share his scars. Cait doesn't know about the PTSD until she spends the night during a thunderstorm and Jack has a flashback.

Lots of twists and meddling/helpful neighbors. Love and loss and new beginnings. Memorable marriage proposals.

Book three comes out later this year and book one is in my shopping cart at amazon.

Prayer chains are mentioned. There are curl-your-toes kisses and drawn out lovemaking but not as much as some and mostly skip-able.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Contemporary Romance
In the Middle
Where are you reading?/50 States
Wicked Wildfire
Men in Uniform
Foodies Read



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #72: Gordon the Giraffe (picture book, bullying/GBLT)

Gordon the Giraffe
Bruce Brown
A. Shelton, illustrator

9781927424537
Arcana Studio
April 18, 2012 (ebook)
July 9, 2013 (print)
52 pages
ebook
Age range: 9+
 
children's book about bullying, GBLT
source: private library

Grade: A


Gordon lives with his mother in the hidden kingdom of Ugladunga. Every day, the adult giraffes gather on the other side of the waterfall, but the kids meet to play the game Mulunga Doo in pairs: one boy and one girl. When Gordon is asked to play by Gary, the other young giraffes laugh at them and ask Gordon if he's a girl? Hurt, Gordon flees to his mother who tells him that he must follow his heart. The next day, the boy giraffes plan to teach Gordon a lesson, but their plan backfires, and Gordon must save them from plummeting down the waterfall. In the end, Gordon teaches the other boy giraffes that they should love everyone - even those who are different from themselves.

~*~*~
The whole book is illustrated like the cover. Simple, bold, just right. Just like other picture books, this one has large print words with few to a page. The thing is, two boys want to play a game that is usually played by a boy and a girl. The mother really steps up in the story with her unconditional love and great advice.

The print edition is coming soon and it would be a worthy addition to any children's library.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, June 10, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #71: A Poppy Is to Remember (picture book)

A Poppy Is to Remember
Heather Patterson, author
Ron Lightburn, illustrator

0-439-96786-4
North Winds Press, a division of  Scholastic Canada Ltd.
2004
32 pages
8x10 hardcover
Age range: 5 - 9

non-fiction picture book, Military
source: Private Library

Grade: A

In moving words, and with illustrations both dramatic and tender, A Poppy Is to Remember calls to mind the rich symbolism of the poppy we wear so proudly on Remembrance Day... lest we forget.

~*~*~

Grab your tissues before you start reading. You might want to read this one first before handing it to your child.

The first 25 pages is pure picture book. Large print, simple ideas, bold illustrations. Then comes the photographs and explanation. I had heard of the poem "In Flanders Fields" but had no idea the Poppy was so important to Canada. Well, I am in the US but still. We who benefit from those who fight must all remember and support.

Together on Remembrance Day we take the time to think of those Canadians who have given so much. We pledge to remember what they fought for -- freedom and a world at peace. We think of the Canadians today who strive to foster peace in troubled regions of the world. In one special silent moment, we pledge to do the same.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Nerdy Non-fiction
Spring Reading Thing
52 in 52
Wicked Wildfire RaT


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #70: Chasing the King of the Mountains (sexy)

Chasing the King of the Mountains
International Men of Sports
T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes

978-1-78184-364-2
Total-e-Bound
July 2013
140 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+ (maybe 16?)
 
romance (sports/cycling) male/male
source: private library

Grade: B


Pascal Durant, one of the best mountain riders in the cycling world, was about to finally win his first polka-dot jersey denoting him King of the Mountains in the Tour de France. Then he suffered a horrific accident that left him unable to complete the race. In his forties and fighting chronic injuries, he knows he only has one more shot at the top.

Laurent Desrochers, an internationally known reporter, hears about his dear friend’s crash and watches a moving viral video of Pascal, bloodied yet unbowed, congratulating the winner. When Pascal tells him he’s going to do the Tour one last time, Laurent decides to convince his network to let him follow Pascal on his quest.

Friends for a decade, they had never thought of the other as more. Pascal’s focus on his sport and poor taste in men has never produced a long-term relationship. And Laurent’s constant travel causes a rift between him and his fiancé Jan that proves insurmountable.

Laurent finally realises his ideal partner has been in front of him all along. Can he pull Pascal’s focus from his goal long enough for him to know he’s being chased...and let Laurent catch him?

~*~*~
I love the way the authors were able to bring the excitement of race to the page. There were lots of interactions with team members as well as support personal. The story isn't drawn out or technical as it is fast as well as soul searching. Pascal does a lot of introspective thinking while waiting for the starting gun. The friendship of the two men is like your favorite sweatshirt. The slide into lovers as smooth as silk.

You know this is a happy-ever-after kind of book but the will he or won't he excitement is still there. And the ending of the book was perfect.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
ebook
M/M Romance
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Where are you reading?

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Happy Monday

Mailbox Monday is a place to share all the wonderful books that have come to live in your home; print, electronic and audio. Started by Marcia of The Printed Page, the mailbox is currently on tour. Check it out so you know where to go next month.

Thank you to May's host:
4 the Love of Books.

June's host is Bellezza at Dolce Bellezza



Received for Review:
Changing Lanes by Kathleen Long

Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:
Black List by Brad Thor
The Carpathians by Janet Frame
One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Nameless by Joe Conlan
Small Town Christmas anthology


Also went shopping through the free section, added a bunch then clicked Pin It
(still not finished pinning all of them)



Current Library books at the house:

State of the Onion by Julie Hyzy
Homeland by R. A. Salvatore
Crystal Gardens by Amanda Quick


I have no idea where I'm at anymore with the rest of them....I've got over 30 books on request, most delayed.



What are you Reading?


A weekly Monday meme hosted by Shelia at Book Journey. Post what you read last week and what you're planning to read this week then link to Shelia's post. Then visit, visit,visit! She has a comment contest going on each week tied to the meme.

Finished:
Watch Me by Carol Lynne
Threadbare Gypsy Souls by T. A. Chase
Son of Death by Nikki McCoy
Master of Wrath by Nikki McCoy
Blue Christmas by Lorraine Bartlett
The ABC's of Freezer Cooking by K.M. Logan
The Gift of Running by Dr. P. Mark Taylor


Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
What the Duke Desires by Sabrina Jeffries
Cinder and Ella by Melissa Lemon
The Reluctant Santa by Sylvia McDaniel
Sea Glass Island by Sherryl Woods
One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand 


Next up:
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead




Reviewed:
Wind Chime Point by Sherryl Woods ~ review
Son of Death by Nikki McCoy ~ thoughts
The ABC's of Freezer Cooking by K.M. Logan ~ thoughts
The Gift of Running by Dr. P. Mark Taylor ~ thoughts
Did Not Finish, may try again later:



Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #69: Crystal Gardens (sexy)

Crystal Gardens
The Ladies of Lantern Street
Amanda Quick

978-1410447203
Thorndike Press (large print)
hardcover: May 2012
471 pages
large print (also mmp, hardcover, ebook, audio)
Age range: 16+
 
paranormal, romantic suspense
source: public library

Grade: B+


Evangeline Ames has rented a country cottage far from the London streets where she was recently attacked. Fascinated by the paranormal energy of nearby Crystal Gardens, she finds pleasure in sneaking past the wall to explore the grounds. And when her life is threatened again, she instinctively goes to the gardens for safety.

Lucas Sebastian has never been one to ignore a lady in danger, even if she is trespassing on his property. Quickly disposing of her would-be assassin, he insists they keep the matter private. There are rumors enough already, about treasure buried under his garden and occult botanical experiments performed by his uncle—who died of mysterious causes. With Evangeline’s skill for detection, and Lucas’s sense of the criminal mind, they soon discover that they have a common enemy. And as the energy emanating from Crystal Gardens intensifies, they realize that to survive they must unearth what has been buried for too long.

~*~*~
I was sure about this book at the beginning, it felt like I was missing some information but I persevered and fell in love.

The twists and double backs, the realistic characters, the love story, and murder attempts all combined to hold my attention to the last page.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
library
romantic suspense
52 in 52





copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Friday, June 7, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #68: The Gift of Running (Non-fiction/clean)

The Gift of Running
a book for runners & future runners
Dr. P. Mark Taylor

978-0615668604
Wise Running Publications (self published)
July 2012
196 pages
ebook (paperback too)
Age range: 10+?
anyone who needs a little encouragement to start and is able to read at this level.
 
non-fiction, sports/running
source: private library

Grade: B (better yet, buy them their own copy)


Running is a gift, but not only for the gifted. Whether you run just for fun or want to become a more competitive runner, The Gift of Running is for you. In The Gift of Running, P. Mark Taylor shows runners how to get started and stay motivated. The book includes: advice on how to get started as a runner, tried & true methods of running faster and longer, how to prepare for a marathon, tips on staying healthy & happy, motivation to keep you running, an insider view of the running community, & training programs for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, & marathon.

P. Mark Taylor is a runner & author of the blog at www.WiseRunning.com.

~*~*~
This is not really anything new and Mark acknowledges this himself. The thing is, instead of reading many books to find the information, Mark has gathered it in one place and added his personal experiences. One piece of info I found on my own by fluke, he mentions three times!

This really is a good starting point. Read it clear through like a novel then read it again with a highlighter or notepad handy!

There is lots of good advice, so much that I can't pick my favorite but I do have two. 1) Buy your first pair of running shoes at a running store. The employees are runners and they know what questions to ask you to help you get the best shoes for you. 2) It doesn't matter what you look like, how far you go, or how fast you are. . . that first "bouncy step" makes you a runner.

I love that he explains things so well, there are tips for your first marathon as well as your first steps out the door. 

I actually paid full price for the kindle version and am pleased with my purchase.



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
ebook
Monthly Mix-up Mania
self-published
Wicked Wildfire RaT



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Wicked Wildfire Read-a-Thon has Started!

Wicked Wildfire
Read-a-Thon
June 7 to June 14

Hosted by April & Tabitha at My Shelf Confessions

For more information and to sign-up click here

There is still time to sign up, prizes are mentioned!

Twitter: #WWReadathon


~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Yes, I plan to participate in some way. Not sure how much but there should be a couple of books read, a few tweets (#bookdragonslair) and a wrap-up post.

Husband may be out of town for a couple of days during the RaT and I don't know if I'll be reading or painting! I'll update either way since the painting will be in my library :-)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~
After thinking I'd not have time to read the first few days, I spent some of very early Friday morning reading. The Gift of Running by Dr. P. Mark Taylor ~ ebook, no page numbers :-( about 34% through it. Time to make notes and then iron :/

Happy Reading!

Notes? check. Ironing? no. Nap? check :-) Finished a book? check

Saturday update: Chiropractor. Lunch with daughter and her boyfriend. I'm moving super slow, hurt a LOT and went to bed at 4 p.m. Any reading? Yes. One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand. I knew it was a romance when I bought it but when I picked it off my stack I confused it with another and thought I was starting a cozy. Still need to get that ironing done, husband is leaving Sunday afternoon and will need it. Worked some on my 5k to 50k training plan but as I hurt, I don't know when I'll be able to start.

Sunday update: whew, got enough ironing done! Finished Crystal Gardens which is a good thing, the next book in the series is on its way to my library.

Monday update: back still hurts but I can stand up now without help, made some cookie dough but haven't baked them yet, reading Chasing the King of the Mountains by T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes. As my sleep is more lopsided then usual, I've been up since yesterday. sigh. Did a challenge! Title Scramble. Finished Chasing. Getting ready to bake cookies :-) I wasn't sure about the cookies because I mostly used Stevia but Son thought they were great. Finished a picture book (and cried). Made it to the grocery store, bank, post office and library! I had Son drive me around since I can't look over my shoulder and it was night. I bought two books. Poor guy, he's pushing the cart and the book in the seat is of a buff, half-naked guy! I got a "very subtle Mom". The other one wasn't much better but they were dressed ;-) I finally just turned the book over.

Tuesday update: Sleep is still weird so I'm up at 2 a.m. Put together a lasagna for dinner tonight (it was delicious) and started reading Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery. Took a break to blog some and found a great GBLT/Bullying picture book. Finished Just One Kiss.

Wednesday update: FarmVille, 5k to 50k planning, reading One Day in Apple Grove (on chapter 10) but have plans for tonight so I don't think I'll finish it. I started Black List by Brad Thor but I don't see it on here, shrug, I'm on page 98 so maybe it was late Monday/early Tuesday? The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick is waiting for me at the library :-D Didn't pick up Mystery Woman but did finish One Day in Apple Grove.

Thursday update: Did another challenge, Cover Love, but I think that was yesterday. Started reading Star Ka'at by Andre Norton, spent some time online. Received Plague today and trying not to start it.

Friday update: It's just after 1 a.m. here and I've been reading Black List for a while. I'm on 218 and the whole thing is scary beyond belief. Think 1984 or Minority Report only with the technology and political leanings available today. Yikes! Sometimes I'd like to have my own private island. Don't think I'd get good internet or mail service so I continue to read and keep my head down. Got to avoid the cameras you know? :-)  I finished Black List and am ready for sleep. I may or may not finish Star Ka'at today. There are two currently reading books stack by my chair but it's Friday night and I may have plans :-)  I've already got my wrap-up post ready to post at 5 a.m.

This was so much fun




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #67: The ABC's of Freezer Cooking (clean)

The ABC's of Freezer Cooking
K. M. Logan

ASIN: B009QO5S44
self-published
October 2012
62 pages
ebook
Age range: 10+? Old enough to cook? Old enough for this book

author's website

instructional, cookbook
source: personal library

If you've ever wondered what it would be like to have an extra hour in the evening to yourself and not have to worry about the dreaded question, "Hey Mom, what's for dinner?" then freezer cooking just might be for you. The "ABC'S of Freezer Cooking" covers all the basics to teach you how and how not to prepare freezer meals for your family. From cooking all your meals for a month in just one day, or preparing just a few extra meals for when you're family is particularly busy, this book is full of helpful tips and tricks to help you make it happen.

Included is how to write a meal plan, money saving strategies, 15 basic recipes, and there is even a section on how to utilize freezer cooking as a weight loss tool. If you're looking for a quick read, and an introduction into the world of make-ahead meals then this book is the perfect place to get started. Written with the beginning freezer cook in mind.

~*~*~
This was fun! She literally goes through the alphabet (Baked Goods, Food Safety, Ice Cream won't fit, Quick Cooking Tips) while explaining how she does freezer cooking. What works for her, what doesn't.

She even includes some of her families favorite recipes that freeze well. That's one of the main tips, if it doesn't freeze well, why use it?

I'm not sure how this will work with my family, she uses a lot of potatoes and I'm Diabetic but she gives me a good base to start. And the encouragement to start small. Sure having 30 different meals in my freezer would be great but just having an extra one or two is a good place to start.

~*~*~
Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Outdo Yourself
Foodies
Monthly Mix-up Mania
ebook

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Pre-Release Spotlight On . . . What the Duke Desires

What the Duke Desires
Duke's Men book #1
Sabrina Jeffries
978-1-4516-9346-1
Pocket Books
on sale: June 18, 2013
416 pages
Mass Market Paperback, ebook, audio

Romance, Regency era
source: Nancy Berland Public Relations, Inc.
author's website

Maximilian Cale, the Duke of Lyons, accepted long ago that his kidnapped brother was dead. When a cryptic note from investigator Tristan Bonnaud claims otherwise, Max seeks out Tristan’s sister, Lisette—and is infuriated to learn that Tristan has also mysteriously vanished. Have the siblings perpetrated an elaborate hoax? Or is the fiercely protective beauty as innocent as she claims them to be?

Fearful that the powerful duke will destroy Tristan’s career in his zeal for the truth, the clever Lisette convinces Max to accompany her to Paris in a joint search for their loved ones. But their journey takes a seductive twist when they pose as an ordinary husband and wife—not an English duke with a tarnished family name, and the illegitimate daughter of a viscount—and discover an exhilarating passion free from the damning secrets of the past. With the line between danger and desire blurred, they discover that some mysteries, like those of the heart, are answered tenfold in the blissfulness of a true and trusting love.

~*~*~

Ms. Jeffries has written the series "The Hellions of Halstead Hall" which stars a leftover hero from the "Heiress" series.  The "Duke's Men" books are a series in the sense that they are set in a shared world and some characters make appearances in later books. They can, however, easily be standalones. Feel free to jump in wherever you like. The book that bridges the two series is "Twas the Night After Christmas" (reviewed). Ms. Jeffries has written over two dozen books under three different names. Looks like I better get busy.

I've got this one next to my reading chair but needed to tell you about it now.

Happy Reading


About the Author (taken from her website):
Raised amidst the rubber plantations in Thailand with missionary parents, afforded Sabrina endless hours to read Jane Austen novels and other classics voraciously. Not surprisingly, back in the States, she went on to earn a doctorate in English literature from Tulane University—and a craving for Cajun food...While Sabrina treks through remote locales in the name of research and rubs elbows in the big cities with other industry professionals, she says her favorite destination is home. She lives in Cary, North Carolina, with her two best guys—husband, Rene, and adult son, Nick, who has inspired her to actively champion the cause of autistic children. (Nick's story)


This title is available for pre-order at Barnes and Noble, amazon, and as always, please check your favorite bookstore.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Purr-sday












just a place to share the cute/funny/weird pictures I find while surfing....when I should be doing a whole range of things ;) Don't forget to head over to The True Book Addict because Michele has a meme going. With links and everything!



 and since it happened too soon for me today, this is what I looked like this afternoon. . .



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

The Once Upon a Read-a-Thon is coming!



Once Upon a Read-a-Thon
July 8 - July 10

hosted by Angela & Loretta at Reading Angels, Candace at Candace’s Book Blog, and Lori at Pure Imagination

For more information and to sign-up click here
The linky is the same on all of the blogs, so you only have to fill it out once!




When: 12:01 am on July 8th to 11:59 on July 10th

Goal:  read more books that is beyond your average number

Follow on Twitter! OUReadathon

If you have any questions please email: onceuponareadathon(at)gmail.com

There is a prize! Well, other than a great time reading, there is a chance to win a amazon/TBD gift card! Plus, prizes with the mini-challenges. "To win anything you must participate in the read-a-thon. You must post at least one update on your blog (or Facebook or Goodreads if you don’t have a blog) and you must complete at least one mini challenge."

~Goals~
Two days. 48 Hours. Just how much can I read in that time period? Two books? Three? I'm going to skip book number since I read so many short ones and go for pages. I'm going to read . . .
400 pages . . . during the read-a-thon.


~Books Read~



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

The Library Books only Read-aThon is coming!



Library Books Read-a-Thon
June 22 - June 28

hosted at Rachael Turns Pages

Sign- up here




from Rachael:
I'm very excited to announce my very first read-a-thon. I love read-a-thons and I really think they motivate me to read. I present to you the Library Books Read-A-Thon. June read-a-thons seem to be in short supply so I hoped to fill in the gap.

The goal of this read-a-thon is to read as many library books as possible. If you are like me you always have books that are close to due that need to be done and fast so this read-a-thon is a great time to get those books done and get them back to the library.

I'm not going to be picky. If you want to read your own books go ahead. I just love read-a-thons so I would love anybody who could join.

This Read-A-Thon will start at midnight on June 21 and will go until midnight of the 28th. I will put an update, linky post up every day during the read-a-thon so you guys can link your progress and we can meet new bloggers through this read-a-thon.

The Sign Up Linky is here. Please put the link directly to your sign up post. Grab the button and go.


~Books to Read~
I have over 40 books on hold at the library! Most of these are "suspended". I have eight books checked out and unless there are hold requests, all have at least one more renewal. The Dwarves by Markus Heitz is "in transit" so is The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick. Two where I'm next and one hasn't been published yet. I did a quick run through and un-suspended four books. . . 

Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler
Killing Floor by Lee Child
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline



~Books Read~



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #64: Son of Death (NSFW)

Son of Death
Keepers of the Gods 1
Nikki McCoy

978-0-85715-550-4
Total-e-Bound
May 2011
224 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+

romance, male/male, BDSM, paranormal, sadistic half-god
source: personal library

When Seth, a Keeper of the Gods, finds the two men he is destined to live eternity with, he must defy the very Gods themselves to save his mates and preserve the existence of man and love.

Discovering love with the one person who is fated to compliment everything that you are is blessing enough, but what do you do when another knight in shining armor sweeps you off your feet?

Jamie found a second chance at life when Loland rescued him from the ignorance and abuse of those who should have protected him. For years they struggled together to cope with Jamie's powers of precognition and his ability to absorb energy from living things.

After centuries of waiting for his other half, Seth finally met Loland, a man that embodied all he'd ever dreamt of in a mate. Meeting Loland's lover, Jamie, and finding that they are both his mates only made the pot sweeter. But while exploring the love they find as mates and the D/s relationships they crave, all three must challenge the will of the Gods and the twisted plans of Jamie's mysterious family.

Ultimately, Seth knows there is nothing he wouldn't do to save the lives and love of his mates.
~*~*~
Oh, boy. Truly a a good example of BDSM.

Jamie and Loland are both subs without a Sir. Loland is searching but Jamie can hardly leave the house and when Loland brings the man he wants to be his Sir home, Jamie takes a swing at him with a baseball bat! Not the easiest of meetings.

Jamie is fearful but strong, loyal to a fault and willing to do what he must. Loland is overprotective, with good reason. And Seth. Seth is a Dom. A good one. One used to being obeyed, willing to be patient with new subs, and quickly losing his heart to both men.

dang, I read book two before writing this.... let's see. Fighting, kidnapping, angry Gods, angrier Keepers, and several half-Gods (offspring of a God and a Keeper). One of the half-Gods has an attitude, just like a rotten apple, giving all half-Gods a bad name. The most sadistic of his behavior is off-screen, we just see the results. Wait, a spiked ball gag? Shudder, I think that was the worst.

But, after everything is said and done this is a love story. The three main characters is this story are having a horrible time but they are working on a relationship that is a love story.

~*~*~
Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Outdo Yourself
m/m romance
ebook
paranormal

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Spotlight On . . . Changing Lanes

Changing Lanes
Kathleen Long
978-161099454
amazon publishing
May 2013
249 pages
Paperback, e-book, audio

Women's Fiction
source: Media Connect


Abby Halladay has the perfect life. Or, rather, she will…as long as everything goes exactly according to plan. Abby never leaves anything to chance—not her job as a syndicated columnist, not her engagement to her fiancé, Fred, and certainly not her impending wedding in Paris (New Jersey, that is).

Unfortunately for Abby, even the best-laid plans often go awry—like when Fred runs away to Paris (France, that is), her column is canned, and her dream home is diagnosed with termites. Forced to move back in with her parents and drive her dad’s cab, Abby’s perfect life has now officially become the perfect disaster.

Then a funny thing happens. Slowly but surely, Abby begins letting go of her dreams of perfection. As she does, the messy, imperfect life she thought she never wanted starts to feel exactly like the one she needs.



About the Author:
When Kathleen isn't writing, she dabbles in jewelry design and child- and puppy-wrangling. A Delaware native, she divides her time between Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore.

Author's website

Ms. Long has over 10 books and one anthology listed on her website, published traditionally (Zebra, Harlequin) as well as being self-published.



 available at Barnes and Noble, amazon, and as always, please check your favorite bookstore.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #60: Wind Chime Point (mostly sweet)

Wind Chime Point
Ocean Breeze #2
Sherryl Woods
978-0-7783-1442-4
Mira
May 2013
393 pages
print
Age range: 14+
warning: the main character is pregnant and unmarried. 

romance
source: Amy Bromberg affiliated with McAllister PR

Grade: B+


Facing a personal crisis, ambitious and driven Gabriella Castle retreats to the welcoming arms of her family. Everything she's worked for has been yanked out from under her, and she seeks the serenity of her grandmother's home on the North Carolina coast. With difficult decisions to make about her future, the last thing she wants is an unexpected love.

Wade Johnson fell for Gabi the first time he saw her. It's not the only time he's found himself in the the role of knight in shining armor, but Gabi isn't looking for a rescuer. To get her to stay, Wade will need a whole lot of patience and gentle persuasion...and maybe the soothing sound of wind chimes on a summer breeze.

~*~*~
Gabi was a good girl all through school. She didn't have time to get in trouble, she was too busy planning her future in hopes of making her father proud of her, even going so far as to work in the same field. She's done well for herself but the 60 hour weeks are starting to take their toll and when she comes up pregnant (and still single) she's demoted. Not because she's pregnant, noooo, that would have been illegal. It was still a demotion and she took the severance package.

So, she come to her Grandmother's house. No, to Grandmother's home. She's already been there a lot because of the storm damage but now she has decisions to make. Will she keep the baby? Go back to her old life? Find something new? Someone new?

Now there are two dads in the picture. Her Father and the father of her child. Her Father is improving, I'm happy to say but the baby's father gives new meaning to the phrase sperm donor.

"I'm afraid I'm a work in progress, Gabriella. I imagine there will be a few setbacks when I'll revert to my familiar, self-absorbed ways."

I love the support she receives from the family. I love the spirit she displays when dealing with her Grandmother's meddling, her ex-boyfriend and her Father's "help". You know how sometimes you get a wow feeling when the title makes sense. I got that with this one. Wind Chime Point may be the middle book in a trilogy but it is a satisfying read all on it's own.

Then again, I can't wait to see what happens to the third sister. Hey, Sea Glass Island is on my reading pile :-)



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
contemporary romance
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Mix-up Mania




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013
Disclaimer

In accordance to the FTC guidelines, I must state that I make no monetary gains from my reviews or endorsements here on Book Dragon's Lair. All books I review are either borrowed, purchased by me, given as a gift, won in some kind of contest, or received in exchange for an honest review.