Saturday, November 13, 2010

Favorite Jaz quote.

Do you have a favorite Jaz quote from the series?
Here are some of mine:


"So... you're an assassin?" Dave asked incredulously. 

"Why do I feel like you'd have used the same tone if I'd just confessed to being a stripper?" I demanded. 

"Sorry," he said quickly. "I'm just surprised, is all." 
Biting the Bullet.


I think this has to be my absolute favorite out of the entire series:
"When I bite you, it'll be because I want to make your toes curl and your hair stand on end. And you won't need stitches afterward. You'll need crutches."
One More Bite

The Books in reading order.
Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win the signed copy of Bitten in Two. We have some great posts happening next week for our Jennifer week, so don't forget to stop by here and Amanda's blog Not-Really-Southern Vamp Chick. If you have any of the buttons on your blog, you get an extra 5 entries. Giveaway ends December 2nd.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

My imaginary poker game.

Last night I played Texas Hold 'em with my brother, best friend and cousin. It was a shaky start as none of us knew how to play poker, but my friend and I had a vague understanding of Texas Hold 'em, thanks to our tour guide in Egypt. So out came my laptop and in into the search bar I typed 'How to play poker'. Now, did you know there are no websites that actually tell you how to play poker? They tell you how to bluff, how to read someones tell and how to make a game plan, but not once did they tell you how to play poker! So I typed in 'How to play Texas Hold 'em and ta da, there was a website on how to play Texas Hold 'em. Finally the game got started with a little tutorial to bring my cousin and brother up to speed. I can tell you I didn't win much. 


I love reading about the games Jaz Parks Granny May puts together. So anyway, now I'm going to tell you about my imaginary Texas Hold 'em game. 
Starring: Marilyn Monroe
Legolas Greenleaf (Orlando Bloom)
Hugh Jackman (as Wolverine) and
Richard Dean Anderson


I'm a big Marilyn fan, so I know why she's there, not so much Legolas or Wolverine. I just plain love Richard Dean Anderson (RDA). Marilyn's first dealer, she shuffles the cards while flashing the guys a sultry smile. None of them stir. It's a tough crowd tonight. She deals out the cards and it's RDA to her left so he begins the bets. He slowly lifts his cards to take a peek then puts in 3 chips. Legolas is next, he doesn't even look at his cards and puts his 3 chips in. Wolverine has been watching all three closely. He stares hard at RDA, chewing on a cigar, then puts his chips in. So far, no-one has uttered a word. Marilyn has been looking from her cards to Legolas who sits directly across from her. There's a small sparkle in her eyes. She also adds her chips, burns the first card on the pile, then lays three others face up. A queen, a jack and a ten. Wolverine inhales on his cigar and blows smoke all over the table.  
"What's it gonna be, Rick?" he asks.
"Well, I'm thinking maybe four," he adds 4 chips to the pile. RDA has a pretty good hand.
Legolas calmly places the required four chips in the center. Wolverine blows more smoke and puts his chips in.
"I see your four, and raise you two." Marilyn says. RDA and Wolverine stare at her. She just smiles. Legolas smiles back and inclines his head to her.
"Okay then. I see your two." RDA adds two more chips to the pile. Legolas still hasn't looked at his cards, but puts more chips in. They're all looking at Wolverine now. He looks from his cards to the ones on the table, but places his chips in. Again Marilyn burns the top card and places the next one on the table. An ace. 
"Mr. Anderson, it's your bet." Marilyn says to him.
He adds another 3 chips to the pile. Legolas and Wolverine add the required amount. After a minute, so does Marilyn. Burns again, then places the final card on the table. A three..
"Last chips in gentlemen."
RDA immediately throws in two chips. The others follow. RDA tosses his cards on the table. "Three queens."
Legolas finally turns his cards. "A two and a ten."
Wolverine curses under his breath. "A four and a ten. Looks like you win Rick." Wolverine begins to shove the chips towards RDA.
"Not so fast gentlemen. I have a King and an ace. All in hearts. I do believe that means I have a Royal Flush."
RDA sits back and smiles, takes a sip of his scotch. "You had me going there."
"Well done, Miss. Monroe."
"I'm gonna find another table." With that Wolverine get's up and walks away. Then everything fades to black.
****
Leave a comment on the four people who are in your imaginary poker/bridge game? Are they even playing poker or bridge? Please don't forget to leave your email address and you can into the running for a signed copy of Bitten in Two. Which is out now. If you haven't already, leave a comment on the Cole vs. Vayl post, for another entry. Also don't forget to visit Amanda's blog Not-Really-Southern Vamp Chick for her posts. Have any of the event buttons on your blog for an extra five entries. Please leave links so we can check.
Giveaway ends December 2nd.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Week 2 is Jaz week.

This week we have a post by Dakota Cassidy, and a fan art contest. Dakota will (hopefully) be talking about the bridge/poker games in her head, or something along those lines. Carolyn Crane decided not to do her post as she didn't feel right about and that as she didn't actually know Jennifer, she didn't want to make it look like she was using the tribute as a way to promote her own books, as the latest one has just been released. Which is understandable. We don't want to offend anyone in anyway, but just want everyone to enjoy remembering Jennifer, in their own way. 


The poker/bridge games were one of my favorite things about Jaz. Some of the people her Gran wrangles up is amazing. I'm still working on my poker game. I'll have it up soon. Then you can leave your poker/bridge game players to go in the draw for a signed copy of Bitten in Two.


The fan art contest will run for two weeks, and people can submit their entries, and we can vote on them in the last week. It may depend on how many entrants we get, to see how the voting and narrowing down will go. If you know someone who has done any Jaz fan art, please let them know so they can enter here or at Amanda's blog. Or you up for entering your fan art. please do!


Book 7 in the Jaz Parks series, Bitten in Two has finally been released. But won't be released in the UK until December 2nd.
Pick up a copy now.

Winner of a H.P Mallory book!


Random.org has chosen the winner from my Rand & Sinjin interview. The winner is
Julie!

Congratulations Julie, I have emailed you and you have
 two days to reply or another winner will be chosen. 
Julie gets to choose from Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble or To Kill a Warlock.

Thanks to everyone who participated!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Cole vs Vayl - who would you choose?

Week 1 Cole vs. Vayl
Going into this post, I thought it would be a great idea. Until I actually thought about it. Cole or Vayl. Vayl or Cole. I love Cole’s sense of humor, slogan t-shirts, gum chewing and unrequited love for Jaz. I love Vayl’s protectiveness, strength, awesome powers and the whole vibe he throws off. So, who would I choose? Umm, Vayl. No, no wait Cole. Okay, Vayl. Argh, Cole! You get the idea. I’ll break it down like this. For Jaz, I love Vayl. He’s just everything she needs. With all that’s happened to her, Vayl has more staying power-being a vampire and all. Cole is best friend material. I know he’ll always be there for Jaz, and she does love him on some level, but he’s just not Vayl. Now for me, I prefer Cole. He has some of the best lines and scenes I’ve ever read. For example:
 Cole-"I just thought of a new game."
Jaz-"What’s that?"
Cole-"Splat the Specter."
Jaz-"Rules?"
Cole-"You can help me make them up. Right now all I know for sure is that it involves water guns filled with grape Kool-Aid and two ferrets named Biff and Chlamydia." 
Vayl-"Why ferrets?"
Jaz-"Really? You want to know about his choice of pet’s when he’s named one of them after and STD?"


All Jennifer Rardin’s books are hilarious. Not a moment goes when I find myself smiling or laughing while reading. Cole just lightens everything even more. Nearly everything that comes out of his mouth is funny. He’s one of those people who likes to lighten the situation. He’s rarely serious but is dependable when you need him. 


"I am a big Vayl fan.  I tend to go for the more mature, sensual male.  Cole is fun, but I’d wear him out." Jennifer's agent, Laurie.


So, in conclusion I’ve decided I love Cole. (I think) If you’d like to win a signed copy of Jennifer’s latest book Bitten in Two (or whichever Jaz Park book you want), leave a comment on who you prefer. Take their button and you’ll earn an extra 5 entries, but make sure you leave a link so I can check it out. Don’t forget to head on over to Not-Really-Southern Vamp Chicks blog to check out her choice, and the chance to win one of Jennifer's book from Book Depository.  All giveaways end December 2nd, unless otherwise specified.


The signed copy of Bitten in Two is kindly donated by the lovely ladies at Temptation the Romance Bookstore. An entire bookstore devoted to bringing you everything romance. They carry PNR, UF, YA, Historical, Georgian, Suspense…..you name they pretty much have it. 


Now for the buttons to show you support!






Stange Candy Reviews










Strange Candy Reviews



Also, don't forget to enter my H.P Mallory giveaway which ends November 6!

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Character Interview & Giveaway: Rand and Sinjin (H.P Mallory)


Welcome to Strange Candy Reviews, gentlemen. How are you both?

(Sinjin sits on the couch next to me and Rand takes a seat in a chair across from us both)
Rand: Very well, thank you and thank you for having us.
Sinjin: (offering me a flirtatious smile) I am well, Ms. McLeary, thank you.

(blushing) You've know each other for a while. How did you meet?

(Sinjin glances at Rand but Rand stares straight ahead and his jaw is tight).
Sinjin: That is a bit of a loaded question, Love. We got off on quite the wrong foot, so to speak.
Rand: Sinjin seduced my best mate's sister.
(Sinjin just smiles guiltily)

Okay....What was your impression when you first met Jolie?

(Rand’s anger softens and the tightness in his jaw relaxes)
Rand: Jolie is a very gifted witch and when we first met, I knew she would not disappoint me. I’d come very far to find her, not even then realizing exactly how powerful she is.
Sinjin: Lovely story, Randall, but that was not the question.
(Rand looks uncomfortable)
Sinjin: What did you think of Jolie’s physical attributes?
(Rand narrows his eyes)
Rand: Jolie is beautiful.
Sinjin: Yes, quite so. And when dressed in fairy garb, she’s even more intoxicating…lovely legs and a small waist with ample…
Rand: Sinjin!

So, um, Rand, what do you wear when you sleep?

(Rand blushes)
Sinjin: I believe that is answer enough.

(I clear my throat, also blushing) I kinda had that one coming.
Sinjin, in your opinion, what's you best feature?

Sinjin: Personality or physically speaking, Love? If physically speaking, I believe Jolie quite appreciated my eyes. (Throws Rand a knowing smile) and personality wise, why my winning sense of humor.

You do have very nice eyes, among other things. Oh my God. Did I say that out loud?
(Sinjin just laughs and offers me a knowing smile)

Ah, next question. You both been around for a while, what's the most interesting thing you've seen and/or done?

Rand: The last time I was rendered speechless was when Jolie managed to reanimate a ghost and brought him back to life. I’d merely hired her to find out who killed him. That was quite a surprise!
Sinjin: Yawn.
(Rand faces him with a perturbed expression)
Rand: And what, Sinjin, is the most interesting situation you’ve encountered recently? Please enlighten us.
Sinjin: No need to be a todger, Randall. The most enjoyable situation of late was drinking Jolie’s blood.
(Rand looks like he’s about to explode).
Rand: Did you have to bring that up? You know how…
Sinjin: Yes, Randall, I was merely answering the question posed to me. (He faces you with a big smile, revealing the points of his fangs). But I am afraid, Love, your readers will have to wait until the release of Toil and Trouble to learn the specifics.

You're both um, pretty attractive guys, what's your best line to pick up a woman?

Rand: I don’t believe I’ve ever used a pick up line on any woman.
Sinjin: Thank you for the compliment, Pet. As to, what do you call them, one lines?
Rand: One liners
Sinjin: Ah yes, one liners, I must agree with the warlock. I have not ever required the need for a pick up line. But, if I had to think of one…hmmm…is that a stake in my pocket or am I just happy to see you?

Right, stupid question. Don't know why I thought you'd need a line.
It seems I have an uncanny knack for embarrassing myself. Thanks for bearing with me. So Sinjin, what's it like being a vampire? The biggest perk? And Rand, what's it like being a warlock? 

(Sinjin steeples his fingers and appears thoughtful)
Sinjin: Depending upon your persuasion, the ability to live forever could be considered the biggest perk, as you say. I, myself, believe it to be as such. I also quite enjoy your human fascination with the vampire. And, of course, there is always the perk of tasting the blood of a beautiful woman.

Rand (rolling his eyes): I quite enjoy the responsibility involved in possessing extraordinary powers—how important it is to protect those who are less able to protect themselves.

Sinjin: Really, Randall, you aren’t running for public office.

(Rand frowns)
(I hide a smile behind my hand)
Rand: It is increasingly difficult to have a discussion with you, Ms. McLeary, with this bloody bastard’s comments at every turn.

(Sinjin laughs)
Sinjin: Astonishing Ms. McLeary, it appears your warlock guest does have a bit of life within him after all.

It would appear so, yes. But it would help if you didn't keep pushing his buttons, Sinjin. Don't worry, Rand, the interview is almost over. I just have a few more questions.

Chocolate or vanilla?
Rand: Chocolate
Sinjin: Neither. I do not recall what either tastes like.

Boxers or briefs?
Rand: Boxers
Sinjin (with a lascivious smile): Neither.

Summer or winter?
Rand: I quite love an English summer and summer at Pelham Manor is even more lovely.
Sinjin: I prefer winter. Summer is an unpleasant reminder I will never see the sun.

Do either of you have a favourite band/musician?

Rand: I go through phases with regard to my musical interests but seem to always return to classical music. I find myself repeatedly listening to Smetana of late, specifically Die Moldau.
Sinjin: Unlike Randall who reveals his advanced age not only by his musical tastes but also by his choice of clothing, my musical interests lean more toward the eclectic. Most recently, I have been listening to indie music. In fact, Jolie and I discussed my musical interests in Toil and Trouble when I played the song Blah Blah Blah by Say Hi To Your Mom for her. (He faces Rand with a smug smile). Incidentally, she loved it.

Sinjin, are there any ladies on your radar? Besides Jolie.

(Sinjin glances at Rand with a twinkle in his eye)
Sinjin: No. I find myself quite smitten with the witch.
(Rand pretends extreme interest in his feet while his face flushes and his ears go crimson red).

Rand, do you enjoy having Jolie live with you?

(Rand releases the clench of his fists)
Rand: Yes, though it can be frustrating at times. I constantly have to battle between knowing I should maintain my distance due to our employer/employee circumstance and acting on my more primitive emotional notions.
Sinjin: Interesting, Randall. I was not aware you had primitive emotions, or emotions at all for that matter. And what, pray tell, would those emotions be?
Rand: Sinjin, I’ve had about all I can stomach of you.
Sinjin: You have a tendency to avoid direct questions.
(Rand throws Sinjin a glare)
Rand: Jolie and I are much closer than you and she will ever be. Is that direct enough for you?

Thank you for joining me gentlemen. It has been a, ah, interesting experience. I'm looking forward to reading more about all of you in Toil and Trouble.

(Sinjin seems unfazed but Rand looks like he’s about to explode).
Sinjin: Thank you, Ms. McLeary, I look forward to when next we meet.

(Rand stands up and offers me a curt nod and a quick handshake, refusing to glance at Sinjin).
Rand: Thank you for the interview and I hope your readers enjoy it. I’m terribly sorry but I simply can’t stand Sinjin any longer.

Sinjin and I watch Rand leave. Sinjin turns a big grin on me, standing up.

Sinjin: I suppose we cannot please them all, Love.

You can read all about Rand, Sinjin and Jolie in Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble. Available through:

Visit H.P Mallory at: 

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Leave a comment to win either a copy of Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble, or To Kill a Warlock (Dulcie O'Neil, book 1). Giveaway ends 6th November. Please leave your email address, so I can pass it on to H.P if you win!

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The second book in the Jolie Wilkins series is set to be released on January 1st! I'm so excited!!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Review: No Rest For The Wicca by Toni LoTempio

Product Information:

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 340 KB
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B00427ZIIG

Purchase Information:


Communing with the dead is an everyday occurrence for PI Morgan Hawkes. A half-Wiccan witch who can commune with spirits of those caught between worlds, Morgan uses her talents to exorcise the trapped ghost or demon as part of the Paranormal Investigation Squad – until a string of murders with a voodoo slant prompts the Special Forces Agency to ask for her assistance. Someone’s killing pureblood witches- and the SFA’s convinced Morgan’s heritage (her father was a voodoo priest) could be instrumental in solving the mystery. Teamed with dashing SF agent Cole St. John – an Inheritor Vampire that sets her blood racing – the two of them fight their attraction for each other as they race to stop a madman from unleashing a demonic force upon the world.
-----------------
Morgan Hawkes is a half-Wiccan, half-voodoo Paranormal Investigator. After the murders of several pure-blood witches, the Special Forces Agency ask her for help. They think her heritage will give them an advantage in stopping the madman. 
I really enjoyed Morgans character. She was feisty, tough, and wouldn't take crap from anyone. She held her own with guys, and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty. She does carry around some baggage after the death of her partner when she worked Homicide. As the Wiccan rule is Harm None, Morgan feels immense guilt, and believes she's not worthy of redemption. She has heightened instincts and uses them. She can be a little cocky, but fights for what she believes in with tenacity. 
Morgan gets teamed up with super hot Special Agent Cole St. John. I liked Cole a lot. He's an Inheritance vampire, a breed thats as close to being as you can get, while still being a vampire. He treats Morgan with respect and takes her and her abilities seriously, even though she tries his patience quite a few times. I liked the way he helps her understand her previous partner had her own free will, and that Morgan should stop blaming herself. You can feel the chemistry between them, but Morgan is stubborn and fights her rising attraction to Cole valiantly. He does a nice job wearing her down. I liked the rapport Morgan and Cole had. They worked the case well
Xia, Morgan's cousin, is the embodiment of what it is to be a Wiccan. They live together and are almost more like sisters. Xia has an almost calming effect on Morgan. She's always there when Morgan needs her. I liked Xia, she seems a little fragile, but stands up for herself, and is willing to help even if her own life may be in danger.


The story is great with plenty of interesting secondary characters, intrigue, murder, suspense and an I-did-not-see-that-coming ending. This is a fantastic addition to the Urban Fantasy genre, and I'm hoping there will be more Morgan Hawkes books. I'd love to see what happens to everyone. I'm really glad the author contacted me to review No Rest For The Wicca. I recommend it to anyone who likes Jennifer Rardin or Lilith Saintcrow. I give it 4/5.