Curiosity has gotten the better of me!

Hey ladies,

I have a question for you.  So many authors have books that rerelease these days - usually the only thing new is the cover.  I get very upset when I buy a book that I've already read, don't you?  Most (but not all) authors attempt to make it clear, but I think publishers and booksellers could do a better job of informing readers. Yes, I realize that booksellers are only interested in doing what their name implies, but I still feel ripped off.  I don't buy on impulse these days as much as I used to, but still don't like feeling that I need to doublecheck whether a "new" release is really a rerelease. If I buy a book that's a rerelease, that leaves me with fewer dollars to purchase a release that is truly "new."
What do you think? How many times have you bought a book that you already have a copy of? Does it make you angry?  I imagine with the popularity of ereaders these days, there are more and more of us purchasing Kindle or Nook versions of books we may have forgotten about on our bookshelves.  There are some authors that I'll buy on Kindle because I can then donate print versions of their books to the library and clear out some bookshelf space, but I prefer that decision be mine to make; not because I've forgotten about an earlier version of the book.
I hope everyone's week is off to a great start! I'll be announcing a fun new contest in a couple of days, so please stay tuned! Something a little different that I think will be fun - hope you agree!
Laurie

Cherry Adair's

Cherry Adair has an exciting new series, Cutter Cay, and I was fortunate enough to get a copy of RIPTIDE (third in the series) for Romance Junkies review. I immediately fell in love the the characters and found it difficult to tear myself away from the book, but then I had the "last page blues." You know the feeling, when you're excited and itchy for the happy ending, but then once you're there, it's just so over. It's almost sad sometimes, no? I gave the book a rating of 5 Blue Ribbons, the highest possible at Romance Junkies.

About the book:
Princess Bria Visconti demands the return of the money her brother rashly invested in Cutter Salvage. Treasure hunter Nick Cutter is too reckless, too arrogant—and far too handsome—for his own good. But he can’t charm his way out of this one. Bria plans to make Nick pay up even if she has to board his boat, don a wet suit, and dive for the treasure herself…
Nick sees Bria as a beautiful but spoiled princess who’s never done a day’s work in her pampered life. But once they set sail for the dive site, and the legendary fortune in gold the wreck carries, Nick begins to see Bria in a new light. This princess may be out of her depth, but she’s ready to take on the hidden danger and excitement a treasure hunt stirs to the surface. Together they must fight unexpected enemies—and reveal their darkest secrets—before they’re pulled into a rip current of danger.

My review:
Second in the Cutter Cay trilogy, RIPTIDE tells the story of sunken treasure hunter Nick Cutter and the beautiful Princess Gabriella Visconti. Dark dangers lurk above and below the water in yet another heartwarming, pulse-pounding romantic suspense from Cherry Adair.When Princess Gabriella Visconti marches onto Nick Cutter's state of the art salvage ship demanding return of the money her reckless brother, the king, invested in Nick's current dive, she refuses to leave without it. When her helicopter taxi leaves the ship without her, she is at Nick's mercy. Despite being a princess, Bria did not grow up as royalty. Her parents were killed in a takeover when she was very small and she was whisked away to safety by her bodyguard who became a father figure to her. Now the tables have turned, her bodyguard is gone, and when her little kingdom faces immediate financial ruin because of her brother's investment, she takes it upon herself to see their people taken care of. Nick's explanation that the money has been invested in the dive and cannot be refunded until after the dive, at a significant gain, leaves Bria with no alternative but to leave. When she is brutally attacked on his ship on her last night there, he refuses to let her leave without him and personally takes her to her homeland where threats against her only escalate.
Nick Cutter has no place in his life for princesses, real or not. That is, until Gabriella Visconti strutted her gorgeousness onto his ship. She exudes feminine sexuality without effort and try as Nick may, he can't fight an incredibly intense attraction. Bria is strong and self-assured on the outside, but it doesn't take long before Nick realizes a tender vulnerability about her that he is determined to protect. It isn't long before Bria has Nick realizing that she does have a place in his life, and it's deep-down in his heart.
Cherry Adair has long been one of my absolute favorite authors and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this latest release. The things readers want in a romantic suspense are contained within the pages of this book. The unspoken heat and attraction between these two characters is wonderfully written. Sensuality, mystery, searing passion, gentle strength, there's not a thing missing. Nick's attraction to Bria was instantaneous, but his fall for her was slow and steady, a real work of art and fascinating to witness. The suspense is just as intense and will literally put you on the edge of your seat at times. The appearance of a totally unexpected character was a bonus of sorts, and makes me especially anxious for the next book to see what happens to him. I can't give RIPTIDE a strong enough recommendation. Ms. Adair has given readers everything they expect, and deserve, in their romantic suspense!

The giveaway: I'll give one lucky commenter a Kindle copy of any one of the (already released) books in the Cutter Cay series. Remember, you do not have to have a Kindle to read the Kindle version of a book. Amazon offers several different ways to enjoy Kindle books. All you have to do is leave a comment. I'd like to hear whether you've read Cherry Adair's books - do you have a favorite? Favorite character(s)? If you haven't read Ms. Adair, that's fine, just tell us which book, cover, blurb, or excerpt you find most intriguing on her website. My long-time favorite is KISS AND TELL, followed closely by RIPTIDE. I've very much enjoyed every single one of her books, but those are my faves. I was fortunate enough to meet Cherry Adair a few years back when a multi-author WalMart bus tour came through central Ohio and one of the stops was a few miles from my home. I was able to chat briefly with her and get my dog-eared copy of KISS AND TELL autographed. She was very sweet and I wished we'd had more time to visit! I'll draw the winner on Saturday, September 17th, so be sure to check back. Good luck to you all!
Thanks for checking out RIPTIDE!
Laurie

New from author Regina Hart, FAST BREAK - there's a giveaway!

Regina Hart (aka Patricia Sargeant) sent me a copy of FAST BREAK some time ago - my apologies, Patricia, for being so very late with my review.  If you've met Patricia, you know that she is an absolute doll, undoubtedly one of the kindest people I've ever known, which makes me even more ashamed of being so late. The only time I've ever witnessed her not-so-gentle side is when she talks sports!
Blurb for FAST BREAK:
It’s 24/7 money, fame, and game on—and off—the court. But the real action is behind the scenes in Regina Hart’s sizzling new pro b-ball series, where the stakes are everything and winning means playing for keeps.
He’s a two-time MVP and three-time championship winner. He lives to be the best. And now that he’s a first-time coach, DeMarcus Guinn will lead the NBA’s worst team to the top his way—or no way at all. But the team’s fiery franchise owner, Jaclyn Jones, is fighting him at every turn. And their unexpectedly seductive one-on-one is the kind of game time he can’t resist.
Turning her family’s team into winners is Jaclyn’s only hope of saving them and her community. She’s used to being in control, but DeMarcus’ determination—and the way he makes her feel—are like no moves she’s ever seen. And with everything they care about on the line, they’ll have to play to win … or lose their hearts.

You'll find an excerpt and ordering information HERE - please go check it out!
My review:
The Brooklyn Monarchs are in last place in the NBA.  Majority owner Jaclyn Jones isn't completely pleased with the new coach of the Monarchs, DeMarcus Guinn, but is nevertheless counting on him to turn the team around.  As if that wasn't enough, her co-owners are as determined to move the team out of Brooklyn as Jaclyn is to keep them there. Add to all of that the losing battle she's having with her attraction to Marc, and Jaclyn is one very frustrated young woman.
The position of head coach is new to Marc and proves to be much more difficult than he could ever have anticipated, but quitting is not an option to the success-driven coach.  He is undeniably interested in his new boss and while he knows he should keep things strictly professional, he's at a loss as to just how to ignore his growing attraction.
Regina Hart is the alter ego of successfully talented author, Patricia Sargeant. FAST BREAK is the first book of a new series by Ms. Hart that promises to be enjoyed and appreciated by romance readers.  Jaclyn Jones is a strongly independent business woman and while oftentimes women written in this position are disliked because their determination to lead and rule can make them seem bitchy and cold, that isn't the case here. Jacklyn remains likeable throughout.  Basketball has been very good to Marc and he's nervously excited at the prospect of coaching, and hopefully turning around, the Monarchs.  Ms. Hart knows her basketball and it shows in this book like a finely executed play.  I give FAST BREAK a strong recommendation and hope that readers who aren't familiar with Regina Hart will give her work a try.
I am going to give one lucky reader a Kindle copy of FAST BREAK to get you ready for the next release in this fabulous series, SMOOTH PLAY, coming in January, 2012. Remember, you don't need a Kindle to read a Kindle version of a book. There are so many options available for reading on your iPod, phone, PC, etc.   All commenters will be entered in the draw. Tell us what sports romances are your favorite.  Are you a b-ball fan like Regina?  I have to admit that hockey is my favorite sport, especially our local team the Columbus Blue Jackets, but I also like football and baseball - I guess I enjoy a good romance written around any sport! You know how this works - tell a friend and if they mention your name in their comment, you'll be entered an extra time for each friend who mentions you - so get out there and tell your friends!!  I'll draw a winning name this Friday the 16th.  Good luck!
Thanks so much, Regina/Patricia, for allowing me to read and review FAST BREAK for you.
Have a great week, everyone!
Laurie

Stay tuned!

Hey ladies!

I hope everyone's weekend is off to a great start!  Anyone have exciting plans?  I'm working out tomorrow morning and other than that, have no plans.  I love weekends when we have nothing going on and can take it easy. The weekend goes so much quicker when we're busy, and then I'm back at work before I know it.
I'm hoping to have two new reviews posted sometime this weekend, and both will have book giveaways.  If you're a fan of Cherry Adair and Regina Hart (Patricia Sargeant), you'll want to get your name in both of these drawings.
See you soon!
Laurie

WINNER(S)!!

My apologies for being late. We went to Lindsay and Justin's for dinner last night and got home a little late.
Did you notice I said winners - as in plural?  That's right!  I've decided to give another copy of THE EDGE OF NIGHT that I have. I have a copy that is autographed to me, but because I've gotten a copy for my Kindle, I've decided to let one of you have it. It will still read the same despite the fact that it has been read and has my name in it, trust me!  I went to randomizer and the winners chosen are KARA and KRISGILS33  - congratulations, ladies!  Please email your mailing information to me at ljodamron@gmail.com by this Friday and I'll get those books in the mail to you.

Thanks to everyone who entered the contest.  I'll have another contest, possibly two, that will be announced by the end of this week, meaning two more books to give away!  Please be sure to stop back!
I hope you've all had a wonderful holiday weekend.  Did anyone do anything especially fun?  My boss gave us his OSU tickets for Saturday's game and while we sweat buckets, we enjoyed the game. Today is totally opposite of Saturday and it's downright chilly out there. I think the high is predicted to be in the high 60s.  That's sweatshirt weather!
Thanks again,
Laurie

Jill Sorenson's THE EDGE OF NIGHT

I recently read THE EDGE OF NIGHT for Romance Junkies review for author Jill Sorenson. I have enjoyed many of Jill's books, with CRASH INTO ME being my absolute favorite. Jill's writing style isn't butterflies and blue skies, it's more like sultry summer winds and hot, baking pavement. Her characters are remarkably realistic and could easily be someone you went to school with, work with, or pass in the grocery store parking lot. THE EDGE OF NIGHT is no exception and I feel certain that readers will adore April and Noah.

The blurb:
In a sultry California city on the Mexican border, a brutal crime pushes a struggling young mother and an idealistic cop to the edge of passion—and beyond.
To support her small daughter, April Ortiz does what she has to do—which means waiting tables in a skimpy outfit at a popular nightclub in a gang-infested area of Chula Vista. When one of her co-workers is raped and murdered, April does what she knows she shouldn’t—she defies the neighborhood code by giving the police a hardcore gang member’s name.
Clean-cut cop Noah Young wants a shot at breaking this case more than anything in the world—that is, until he meets the unforgettable April Ortiz. When April gives Noah the tip, a spark ignites. As the fire between them threatens to blaze out of control, the two are dragged down further into the dark mysteries of the graffiti-lined streets, taunted by a crazed killer who could strike again at any time.

You'll find more about THE EDGE OF NIGHT by clicking HERE - excerpts, reviews and purchasing links. Then go to "Home" and check out what's coming up - you'll like it, I promise!

My (4 Blue Ribbon) review:
In THE EDGE OF NIGHT, author Jill Sorenson gives readers a heroine fighting to keep her young daughter safe in a tough neighborhood. Add a hero who fights to keep them alive while seeking a romantic relationship that could quite easily spell the end of his law enforcement career. A bumpy, sensual ride is guaranteed.
When Noah Young investigates the murder of a young waitress at the bar where April Ortiz is also a cocktail waitress, neither would have guessed that the immediate attraction between them would escalate into a red-hot affair. April’s young daughter is her entire life and she knows better, given her previous experience with men, than to let her guard down, especially for a man. With an addiction-weakened mother and the father of her daughter in prison, April knows that she alone is responsible for the safety and future of the both of them. Besides, she’s working and taking classes, determined to make for a brighter future.
Noah Young knows that he shouldn’t get involved with April, but there’s an undeniable, irresistible draw to her. Knowing of April’s past and her connection to some well-known drug dealers, he knows he should steer clear of her and focus on the case against her former boyfriend’s brother. When Noah’s young sister begins dating said brother, his concerns balloon and his stress begins to rise. Noah is intensely motivated, wanting to move up in the police force and there’s no room in his life for the trouble a woman like April could stir up.
Jill Sorenson is an excellent romantic suspense author that all fans of the genre should be familiar with. THE EDGE OF NIGHT isn’t a flowery, sweetly written romance. It’s gritty and hard-hitting, almost coarse at times. April and Noah are very clearly written and the stutters and bumps of their relationship are incredibly realistic. I have yet to be disappointed by a Jill Sorenson book and strongly urge romantic suspense fans to do themselves a favor and snag this book immediately.

I have a brand spanking new print copy of THE EDGE OF NIGHT for giveaway. Interested? It's easy - just leave a comment about Jill's work you've read, her book covers, her website, excerpts you enjoyed, etc. and you'll be entered. I'll draw the winner on Sunday, September 4th. Tell your friends and have them mention you in their comment. You'll get an extra name in the draw for each mention. If your name is drawn, you'll have four days to contact me with your mailing information or I will draw another name. So be sure to check back - I won't attempt to track down winners, sorry.
Thanks for checking out THE EDGE OF NIGHT!
Laurie

An empty nest

For the first time ever, Tim and I will actually have an empty nest after Kelsey goes back to school in a couple of days. Lindsay and her boyfriend moved into a condo a couple of months ago and while they're only 30 minutes or so away, she also started a new job, so we only see her once or twice a week. Between her leaving, Kelsey going back to school, and a long-time co-worker retiring, I'm the only legal assistant in my office now. Fortunately, the attorneys do a lot of their own documents, etc. so it isn't impossible to handle things for all three of them.

I'm working on some reviews and there will be giveaways, so be sure to check back in a few days. I've been on a serious romantic suspense kick lately and it has played serious havoc with my review books - I'm crazy far behind.

So what have you all been reading? I love the recommendations of my fellow readers, so dish!!

Laurie

Heartache

Once again, we've lost a beloved pet. Our five year old kitty Lottie had some health issues over the past month and seemed to be doing better. Late last week she rapidly started to deteriorate and we took her back to the vet. The vet phoned me early Saturday morning to say that they'd lost her in the night. Lottie was undoubtedly one of the sweetest kitties that God put on this Earth. We still have two cats plus Kelsey's cat that comes home from school with her on breaks, but losing Lottie is still so very painful.
This pic is Lottie with our basset hound Fred, who many of you will remember we lost a little over two years ago. They were good buddies and I like to think that maybe they're together again.

Here's a few pics taken shortly after we first rescued Lottie and her brother. He went to live with Lindsay's best friend and is fat and happy.

Thanks for letting me share - if you have a pet, please give them a few extra strokes so they know just how special they are to you.

Laurie

Boogie on the Bricks '11, guaranteed fun!

This weekend is the annual Boogie on the Bricks in Athens, home of Ohio University in southeastern Ohio - about two hours away. I have a lot of family in the Athens area and Lindsay graduated from OU so we've spent a significant amount of time there. Athens is a nice little town with about a dozen bars in its downtown and the majority of the streets have remained brick - beautiful to look at, especially given the beautiful surroundings of the OU campus, but a little bumpy when traveling by car. There's an interesting mix of galleries, shops and restaurants in the area too. The main street is closed off for Boogie on the Bricks, a stage is set up at the end of the street and several local bands play all afternoon and into the evening.
There's a group of us "girls" going and we're looking forward to a great time. Those attending? Both of my daughters, my best friend of 34 years, my oldest daughter's best friend since second grade, and my oldest daughter's future stepmother-in-law. We're spending the night and because there will most likely be a little alcohol along with the boogie, we'll be cabbing it to the downtown and back to the hotel.
I hope everyone has a great weekend! I have a birthday this Sunday and have decided to call it "springing forward" rather than "getting older" - it softens the blow just a tad!
Laurie

Knocking the dust off

I've been very neglectful, haven't I? I knew I was being lazy, but didn't realize just how lazy until a friend contacted another friend, who then contacted other friends, asking if I was ok. I even had an email from a reader friend from here inquiring whether something was wrong. My apologies.
To be honest, I've been a little stressed at work and just lost interest for a while. I was barely skimming emails and hadn't logged onto Twitter for a few weeks. Things are still stressful, but I'm coming to grips with the changes and am trying to charge onward and upward.
For those who were concerned, I thank you for caring. I imagine the damage is done and I've likely lost a quite a few readers, but I'm hopeful that once things pick up they might straggle back and bring their friends!
Thanks for being patient and sticking with me!
Laurie