Morning Glory by Diana Peterfreund

Image Source

BREAKING NEWS: Ambitious young TV producer Becky Fuller is fired from a local morning show in New Jersey, and her career begins to look as bleak as her hapless love life.



Desperately in need of a job, yet still full of boundless optimism, Becky vows to land on her feet and stumbles into an opportunity at Daybreak, a floundering network morning news program in New York City. Abysmal ratings are only the tip of the iceberg: Executive producers seldom survive beyond the next commercial break, and the outdated cameras belong in the Smithsonian.

Promising the head of the network that she can reverse the downward spiral, Becky makes legendary newscaster Mike Pomeroy an offer he can’t contractually refuse. She successfully adds Pomeroy to the team, but he refuses to participate in any Daybreak fluff pieces and morning show staples like celebrity gossip, weather, fashion, and crafts. What’s more, he takes an instant dislike to his equally difficult co-anchor, Colleen Peck, a former beauty queen. The only bright spot in Becky’s career is Adam Bennett, a gorgeous fellow producer, but Daybreak’s dysfunction spells trouble for their blossoming relationship. As Mike and Colleen’s on-air chemistry proves more explosive every day, Becky must scramble to save her love life, her reputation, her job, and, ultimately, Daybreak itself.

*     *     *     *     *

I first noticed this novel at Costco but ignored to even read it after finding out the book was based on a movie script. I thought I’d go straight to the theater and watch. Then I saw it again at the Starbucks Café in the hands of a middle aged woman reading while enjoying a cup of coffee. Finally I flipped through the first few pages of the trade paperback edition while at Barnes and Noble. The first chapter was short and entertaining – about 10 pages. I liked the voice of the narrator/leading character. I fell in love with the author’s prose and carried it through checkout.

The story was a perfect break for me from work and from reading too many mystery novels I failed to blog out here. It was a fast lighthearted but enjoyable read that made me laugh in several scenes.

Becky Fuller was likable. There weren’t enough descriptions about her appearance, or other supporting characters, but it didn’t matter because I kept picturing Rachel McAdams. I thought that was the plus side of meeting the character as a Hollywood icon, first and foremost.

I was satisfied of the ending and thought it was worth the money and time.

Author's Official Website

Bisdak in Technology Reminders #1: Power Button

Power button icon from
Mysitemyway ETC Network

Remember the magic power of the power button?

Recently I purchased a HP Wireless printer and went through the excitement of going through all the steps of the installation. Well, I thought I did all I'm supposed to do. Much to my chagrin, I was stuck in configuring the wireless network part. The installation in my computer failed because it could not detect the printer. I re-installed the HP software that came with the box, went back and forth from the computer to the printer to enter the encryption code, checked the router's settings, reboot my computer. Nothing. I made sure I had the wireless light on and that I had enough signal strength and rebooted the printer again. Nothing. What went wrong?

I failed to read the HP Guide.

Basic troubleshooting #3 according to HP's guide is to Restart components of the wireless network. Although I restarted the printer and the computer, I failed to restart the router.

Here is what HP provided in clear details:
Turn off the router and the HP device, and then turn them back on in this order: router first, and then the HP device. If you still are unable to connect, turn off the router, HP device, and your computer, and then turn them back on in this order: router first, then the HP device, and finally the computer. Sometimes, turning off the power and then turn it back on will recover a network communication issue.

Great Memories from an Ugly LG Phone (Part 1)

I decided to go through the photos I took over the years from my cell phone and wondered how much crap I've accumulated. LOL. But there were some great memories I just couldn't erase...

1. Here is a picture of Ian, my nephew. One of the very first pictures I took from my phone almost two years ago. He was only 4-hours old @ at the hospital when I called his name (Ian...Ian...) and he started smiling. Lucky enough I had my phone in my hands where I took a quick shot.

Then he tried to open his eyes to trace the voices he heard came from. He lifted his hands and smiled once more before he went back to his baby sleep.

2. Almost two years later (about a month before he turned two years old), Ian still impresses me in his own quirky ways. I told him to sit and he did. Smile and he did. Show me your hunk look and funny thing is he posed with his left arm below is right arm and tapped his left shoulder -- as if he was preparing for his debut shooting -- like he wanted to make his Tita very happy -- as if he knew I'd post his picture here in my blog one day!

3. He loved Yo Gabba Gabba show and when he's hooked in front of the Television, don't you dare bother him or he would make you pay for it. How? Well how do kids usually manipulate their parents?

Cry out loud.
Roll on the floor.
Throw away toys.
Cry some more.

I'm beginning to doubt if I'll ever survive being a parent someday.

4. Now his mommy (my sister) is very very  preggy!

5. We got this halloween decorations last year (for free). My Aunt didn't want the hassle of putting them together at their front yard, so I took it without a fuss. I love free stuff. Really.

For this year, I may put it out again just for the heck of it.

It sure glow at night and made me think of pumpkins. With a bat smile?

6. Which made me think of the hash brown photo I took during my breakfast yesterday at work.

7. My neighbor's cat got so lonely because her masters were away for vacation. I took this picture during my first day of cat-feeding. I wasn't used to cats and thought I'd go crazy with my allergies.

It turned out to be fun and relaxing. Purr...purr.

8. My favorite store. Ever.

I do wonder from time to time what would happen to BN's store when we all merge to digitals? They'd end up selling Nook and Nook accessories and no more of these books and magazines and you wouldn't be able to touch those crispy pages and no more of that new print smell? -- Hey I love my nook okay. I was just wondering...




~

Welcome Home Mr. Finn -- my new love

Mr. Finn is a blue crowntail betta fish with a single ray extensions fin type. They say he is a fighter fish but when I saw him inside that small cup in the store, I thought of him more of the friendly side.

His dominating blue color with a shade of black around his upturned mouth, his sky blue pectoral fin that nicely flaps when he moves, a bright red pelvic fin, a light shade of pink on his scales and partly on his tail when widely spread are what attracted my attention the first time I saw him.

On his first day he went around the acquarium as if looking for some familiarity and kept on circling around the decorations. The first time I fed him with tropical flakes, he just stared at them, ignored them, then moved on, like he really enjoyed showing off his smooth aquatic abilites. It wasn't easy to take a picture of him too!

I placed a statue of a lady and few figurines behind the aquarium for fun with hopes to entertain Mr. Finn. Look, he couldn't help himself necking that lady!

I am still observing his every moves and praying that he would survive under his new owner (hey, that's me). I plan to make him a baseball fan -- a Yankee fan he is.

So stay tuned for more pictures and notes about Mr. Finn @ my bisdak notes blog.

~

Titan Stories (The Lone Sisters Adventures Series)

UNDER HER SKIN (Book 1)

Lexi Titan – the eldest of the Titan sisters, is faced with exactly thirty days to come up with two million dollars, or she is out of options. Either she marry Cruz Rodriguez or lose everything – the successful day spa she built herself, her tyrant of a father’s respect, and the long- standing competition with her sisters for the family business.

Cruz has money, success, smoldering good looks – everything but the blue blood needed to become a true member of Texas society. If Lexi agrees to be his fiancée for six months, lending him her famous father’s influence and connections, he’ll hand her a check on the spot. And in six months they’ll go their separate ways.

LIP SERVICE (Book 2)

Skye Titan’s wealthy father thinks he can still dictate his daughter’s choice in men. Now widowed and a single mother, Skye isn’t the yes-girl she once was. Especially since the love of her life is back in Texas after eight long years. He won’t like the answers to the questions he’s asking. About why she left him at the altar. And about her eight-year-old daughter.

Former Navy SEAL Mitch Cassidy comes home to find nearly everything different. His wounds from the battle have changed the way people treat him. His cattle ranch is suddenly organic. But time hasn’t touched his desire for Skye – or the sting of her betrayal. Forget lip service. He’s asking that luscious mouth of hers to reveal the truth.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HIP (Book 3)

Izzy has always been the fearless Titan sister and the youngest of the three. But when an oil rig blows up, leaving her barely able to see, her sisters find themselves as concerned by her emotional withdrawal as by the possibility that the explosion was no accident. Are the mind games their long-lost brother Garth has been playing turning physical? Or is someone else out to get them?

When her sisters enroll her in a survivor training camp, Izzy is not happy. Nick, her instructor, is determined that she won’t be left in the dark. In more ways than one. But if he tells her the terrible truth behind why he’s helping her, he’ll never see her again. Unless they’re both willing to take the biggest risk of all.

HOT ON HER HEELS (Book 4)

Dana Birch vowed never to put herself at the mercy of a powerful man. She became a deputy so that she could take care of herself and protect those she loves. Especially her best friends, the Titan sisters.

Twenty years ago, Garth Duncan swore revenge on Jed Titan for abandoning Garth and his mother. Now he’s back to fulfill that promise, even if Jed’s daughters get caught in the crosshairs. All that stands between him and his goal is Dana, her gun and a growing passion that can’t be denied.




MY THOUGHTS:

Book 1: An arranged relationship between the hero and the heroine to solve a specific problem is a known story for Harlequin novels. But this book is beyond that. It also deals with relationship between father and daughter as well as between sisters, the courage to survive in the midst of rivalry, emotional journey, and the importance of friendship. The opening chapter deals directly with the current issue and that intrigues me. The author shows not only the power of love between two strangers, but also paints a beginning for an entertaining series. She also builds the character of Skye in preparation for book 2.

Book 2: In this book, Skye’s character feels weak for me, although the story of Mitch is more interesting, knowing he comes home with physical injury and faces Skye, the love of his life and her daughter. There are some detailed hot scenes in few interesting places. Not really my favorite book, but the ending is enough to my satisfaction.

Book 3: I love Izzy’s character. She’s fearless and stubborn and she fights with Nick. Nick’s character is also very interesting. He has a dark secret from the past that connects with Garth and that in itself hooks my attention. But there is more to the back and forth stubborn fight between the hero and the heroine. I love how the author portrays Izzy’s character in the midst of her disability and the courage to face life’s reality. The story is very encouraging and I recommend this book to anyone who wants to be inspired, anyone who’s losing confidence in life, or to anyone curious enough to read about surviving from losing sight.

Book 4: I had a hard time starting this book because of Garth. Since book 1, the ugly side of Garth was established, going against the Titan family. But I was glad I continued reading because the story did not disappoint me. I learned to like Garth after knowing more about his past and about his mother. I learned to accept Garth after hearing his voice through the magical words painted by the author. I learned to accept that Garth isn’t that evil after all, if you’d only give him the chance to be part of the family and to show him what it’s like to love and to be loved. I also enjoy Dana’s character. Although there were times the narration and dialogue became repetitive, I still love her attitude and her strength toward the sisters and toward Garth. The love scenes were hot and enjoyable; the choices of words the author used were melodious. After reading this book, I became a 100% fan of Susan Mallery.

In Summary: I enjoyed each of the books in the series and I will not hesitate to read another novel by Mallery. These were first reads for me from the author and surely not the last.

Most of all, I give my thanks to Hilcia from Impressions of a Reader blog  for sharing me these wonderful books (and two others I haven't read yet), and showing me that there are more authors I’d surely enjoy (besides NR). Thanks again.

Goddess of the Hunt by Tessa Dare and Friday 56 Entry

Ever the bold adventures, Lucy Waltham has decided to go hunting for a husband. But first she needs some target practice. So she turns to her brother's best friend, Jeremy Trescott, the Earl of Kendall, to hone her seductive wiles on him before setting her sights on another man. But her practice kisses spark a smoldering passion – one that could send all her plans up in smoke.

Jeremy has an influential title, a vast fortune, and a painful past full of long-buried secrets. He keeps a safe distance from his own emotions, but to distract Lucy from her reckless scheming he must give his passions free rein. Their sensual battle of wills is as maddening as it is delicious, but the longer he succeeds in managing the headstrong temptress, the closer Jeremy comes to losing control. When scandal breaks, can he bring himself to abandon Lucy to her ruin? Or will he risk his heart, and claim her for his own?

MY THOUGHTS:

Tessa Dare's Goddess of the hunt is a first for me and I wasn't sure what to expect the first time I flip the page. I'm not used to reading historical and so I am mostly curious about certain aspects of the writing style and voice as well as the setting and pacing of the story.

Well, my time is not wasted. This novel is enjoyable and romantic. I simply adore the characters, specially Lucy and Jeremy. The romance between the hero and heroine creeps through my mind as I close my eyes to sleep. Scenes are unforgettably wild and funny at times. Lust and seductive? Yes, but there is more to it than that. It shows that you cannot dictate your heart to acquire happiness and contentment, no matter how much you fight against it. And love conquers in many ways. This novel simply shows a story of unexpected love and the emotional battle to fight against it, only to find love in each others arms.

The writing is exquisite and the plot is interesting, enough to keep me going from one chapter to the next.

When I read certain novels, I can't help but compare certain characters. I think of Jeremy as Hugh Jackman from the movie “Kate and Leopold”, with his aristocratic feature, sexy but powerful voice. Tessa Dare creates such believable characters that anyone can relate and cherish. Both Jeremy and Lucy are not perfect at all and that makes them intriguing. They both have weaknesses and personal daemons to fight with. They are funny and annoying and lovable and hateful. They fail and they conquer. They cry and laugh. They make me fall in love and feel the wanting, the craving, the needing – a web of emotions all tangled in one story.

I dare you to read this novel!

Thanks to Christine from The happily ever after blog, for lending me this book. I look forward to reading more of this genre.

SOURCE: Paperback, borrowed

RELEASE DATE: August, 2009

*     *     *

I am also including this post for my Friday 56 entry today from Tonya's blog. Kinda like killing two birds with one stone ;-).

Here's the rule:

* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*Post a link along with your post back to this blog.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

Below is the fifth sentence from Page 56 of Goddess of the Hunt novel:

She reached toward the chessboard, and he caught her hand in his.

Ahem. That's very romantic, isn't it? I know -- I'm romantic at heart in it's simplest form. Really, you've got to believe me!

~

Untraceable By Laura Griffin

ALEX LOVELL MAKES PEOPLE DISAPPEAR. TURNS OUT, SHE'S NOT THE ONLY ONE.

Private investigator Alexandra Lovell uses computer skills and cunning to help clients drop off the radar and begin new lives in safety. Melanie Bess, desperate to escape her abusive cop husband, was one of those clients. But when Melanie vanishes for real, Alex fears the worst, and sets out to discover what happened. Using every resource she can get her hands on – including an élite team of forensic scientists known as the Tracers, and a jaded, sexy Austin PD detective – Alex embarks on a mission to uncover the truth.

As far as homicide cop Nathan Devereaux is concerned, no body means no case. But as much as he wants to believe that Alex's hunch about Melanie's murder is wrong, his instincts – and their visceral attraction – won't let him walk away. As a grim picture of what really happened begins to emerge, Nathan realizes this investigation runs deeper than they could ever have guessed. And each step nearer the truth puts Alex in danger of being the next to disappear...

MY THOUGHTS:

Untraceable is the first in the Tracers series – an élite team of forensic scientists, funded by several private individuals. The plot however, focuses on Alex, a PI in Austin, helping women like Melanie Bess to start a new life. Alex's courage and skillful investigative techniques make her character interesting and exciting to follow as she untangle the mystery and intrigue behind the disappearance of Melanie. Alex is also not so perfect after all. She portrays a character of a strong woman eager to sacrifice her time and happines to save someone else's life, but within is a vulnerable woman in search for something missing in her own life. Nathan, a homicide cop comes to the rescue. It seems to me that Nathan is an ideal hero, who comes in to Alex's life in the right place, at the right time.

What I love about this novel is the fast paced story line, some short but intriguing dialogues, it almost like watching the characters in action live in a big screen. I could hear the swooshing sound of the danger closing in and feel the tugging of drumbeats in my chest, as both hero and heroine tackle the danger they face. There is so much action and suspense, I couldn't put the book down until I finally reach the ending. I like how the author mixes the search and investigation with couple hot and sexy romance scenes. It could easily grab the mystery/suspense readers and the romantic readers – a perfect all season package in one novel.

I first read Untraceable back in December of 2009 and had so much fun for discovering a romantic suspense author, I wasn't familiar with before. After reading the second book, Unspeakable, I had the urge of reading Untraceable again to feel the magic of Griffin's words come to life.

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who craves for excitement, coupled with suspense and romance in life. 

SOURCE: Paperback

RELEASE DATE: December, 2009

~

Betrayal in Death (Book 13) by J.D. Robb

From Amazon:
Link Here

When Darlene French, a maid at the Roarke Palace Hotel, is brutally beaten, raped, and strangled with a silver wire, Eve is at a loss to explain the apparently professional nature of the murder. Who would hire a hit man to kill such an ordinary woman? As she and her team of detectives (with a little grudgingly accepted help from Roarke, whose money, name, and talents can dig up a wealth of information) investigate the evidence, they find themselves in pursuit of Sylvester Yost, a vicious hired gun who's made millions in his bloody pursuit of career excellence. But it isn't until more victims appear that Eve realizes Yost's real target is Roarke himself. To discover the driving force behind the murderous campaign, Eve and Roarke will have to delve into their own pasts, which holds secrets and terrors for them both.

My Thoughts:
      I was looking forward reading this novel because of Lori's recommendation in her blog and because I am in love with the main characters (Eve and Roarke). I was only on the first chapter and I was hooked, I had a hard time putting it down like a mug of white chocolate mocha I was addicted. Who wouldn't be when the story takes you right into the main course with Eve and Roarke the center of it all? The title "Betrayal" is also an attention grabber as the crime links to a certain relationship with the main characters. Of course the enigmatic romance between Eve and Roarke continues to ignite fire and excitement; the craft in details never cease to amaze me. Their relationship as husband and wife is once again tested in this novel, the test of love, the test of trust and cooperation. The presence of Mick (Roarke's close friend from Dublin) and Summerset (Roarke's buttler and like a father to him) add spices into the mix. Peabody and McNabb -- I still love them, especially when they face certain road blocks in their growing relationship. Sly's (Sylvester Yost) style of murder was vivid I felt I was there witnessing his acts, his endless lust and satisfaction. Oh yes, I wished him dead too – he was the wild animal in the jungle – very ugly animal. The "Who is the killer?" part of the mystery is made obvious from the start showing Sly attacking the victims. It is the act of betrayal that keeps the suspense building up: {who betrays who" and "why do it" questions are eventually revealed toward the last chapter.

Betrayal in death is definitely one of my favorites by J.D. Robb and I surely recommend this to anyone interested in romantic suspense and an unforgettable work of art. I promised myself to reread this book again sometime in the near future.

She Made the Headache Go Away

The pounding in my head was a continuous annoyance I didn’t have the energy to check my mails when I got home late last night from work. But, I was curious enough of the yellow envelope I needed to open it as my heart leapt for joy seeing the sender’s name. Guess what?

I got a pretty bookmark from Christine – such a lovely, lovely book thing I will surely enjoy using while I spend time reading. Thank you very much Christine! I appreciate the thoughtfulness.

And what better book I could start using such gift than on a J.D. Robb’s novel where I first met Christine through her “In Death” Reading Challenge? Yup – I used it right away since I am currently reading the 3rd chapter of Betrayal in Death I borrowed from the library. Through Christine I was also given the oppurtunity to meet other two lovely ladies: Hilcia and Mariana.

 

Christmas in July

On my way to work this morning I listened to the Jim Kerr and Rock & Roll Morning Show of the Rock Radio Station Q104.3, when after brief discussions about the blistering heat these past few days and agonizing today’s High 98 degrees F with around 50% Humidity, A “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!”Song by Andy Williams was played on air, just like a perfect air conditioning turned into its high cool temperature – Oh Christmas in July was all I could think of at that moment.


Seriously, these past few days were unbelievably crazy. Last Monday I decided to stay at B&N store since its cooler there while enjoying the endless selections of magazines I wanted to read. About thirty minutes savoring my Starbucks café latte, the entire store went dark and quiet – there was a power outage – eeek and bleh! An hour later the store decided to close and I was thrown out back on the road where all the traffic lights were off. Last night my AC refused to function properly, where it was supposedly its job to make me feel happy and comfortable, its job is to blow cold air as long as I needed it and not warm air for Christ sake!

My internal system just isn’t what it used to be anymore, where I grew up in a poor tropical place, always hot, always humid, no winter season, no snow and with little access to the wonders of air conditioning, and the good part was I survived with no questions asked. Once I upgraded into a life filled with opportunities and luxuries (okay not really that luxurious but quiet better than before) I couldn’t take the heat, I couldn’t stay quiet for a few minutes without complaining, I couldn’t live the life of the past.

I don’t even like snow, but right now I’ll take any ice and ice and more ice and just relax, just to get away from the fire.

Tour with Friends

Meeting a classmate from College I haven't seen in many years brought back memories from the past, not knowing what I really wanted in life. I was ambitious in reaching the ladder of success but was naive to the reality of life outside the world I grew up. It was a wakeup call when my path merged into the pack of hungry wolves eager to dive in to the dome of reality. Empty handed with inferior ability to survive I took the chance and challenged the faith once painted in front of me inside the College classroom, painted in blurry images and intense colors. The struggle was difficult, more like a test in the midst of wolves waiting patiently, calculating, planning their attacks against every step I took.
  

They are all shuffled cards of memory now, stored and kept away.  But once in a while I look back and the ghost whispers, "It was a heck of a ride worth remembering."

It's Monday What are you reading?

It's Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Shiela @ book journey -- where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week.

I've been away from blogging for awhile now due to other priorities I couldn’t say no, one month to be exact, but it didn’t mean I have neglected my reading time. I managed to steal what was left of my time on a daily basis and continued reading on some of the Nora Roberts’ classic novels including her FROM THE HEART collection of timeless romance stories: Tonight and Always, A Matter of Choice, and Endings and Beginnings. I’m also finishing up the last story in the GOING HOME collection including titles such as Unfinished Business, Island of Flowers, and Mind over Matter.



This week I plan to continue with the In Death Series beginning with Witness in Death by J.D. Robb from an audio book I got from my honeybun’s mom. And since I missed last month’s In Death Challenge (sorry Christine), I also plan to read Judgment in Death, a novel I borrowed from the library, sort of a tiny punishment for missing the reading challenge but at the same time with an undeniable reward just by reading anything by J.D. Robb.

While browsing through the Fiction section at the library today I stumbled upon Debbie Macomber’s READY FOR LOVE two classic romance novels with titles including Ready for Romance and Ready for Marriage, stories adopted from the author’s fascination of the old movies, played by heroes such as Humphrey Bogart, William Holden, and heroine such as Audrey Hepburn. The first movie came to mind was Sabrina in which I love the most, so I had to take this novel home safe with me.


Not too long ago I read a novel by Leigh Michaels and enjoyed the simplicity but captivating plot entitled the BRIDE ASSIGNMENT so I decided to get her FAMILY SECRETS through Amazon’s Kindle. My attention was brought to me by the author itself through our Romance Class where we were discussing about foreshadowing in a dialogue. I’ve started the first two chapters (which by the way was quiet interesting to read) before I got distracted with NR’s Going Home, but I intend to finish it this week. Promise!

If time permits, my sister made me borrow her latest novel collection by Emily Giffin with her latest release entitled HEART OF THE MATTER. I recently read the blurb and believe me when I say it grabbed my attention and I was emotionally attached to it, like the novel belonged to me after such a short time. This baby is going to stay within my reach for awhile and who knows I may never return it to the rightful owner (sorry Sis, it’s mine now!).


To stretch the impossible little time I have, I may squeeze in GOOD in BED by Jennifer Weiner I also got from Amazon’s Kindle. I know my plans are overreaching but I knew in my heart I could always make time rewarding myself into such addicting novels I’ve got in my TBR list. I’ll be spending most nights on the couch surrounded with my little fav teddy bear.


Speaking of couch, I just heard on the radio this afternoon about a caller doing an origami on the couch and Mr. Deejay laughed out loud I thought someone was tickling him. What was so funny about it? – I think I was a bit slower understanding the joke behind.


Okay enough with talk and let’s start reading…I am on a serious mission this week, so help me God!

Friday 56: Night Shift from the Night Tales Collection

I found this meme from Laurel's blog last month hosted by Tonya at Storytime with Tonya and Friends and figured I'd give this meme a second try.


Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*Post a link along with your post back to this blog.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

HAPPY FRIDAY!
 
Early this week I started reading the first Novel (NIGHT SHIFT) from the Night Tales novel collection by Nora Roberts and literally on page 690 pouring over the 4th novel of the collection (Night Smoke). Following our Friday 56 rules, I turned to page 56 on NIGHT SHIFT and located the fifth sentence. My eyes flickered in awestruck reading this...

Angry humiliation rippled through her. Cursing him,she dragged his mouth to hers and poured herself into the kiss.

I'll leave the rest for you to find out...
 

NIGHT SHIFT is an intriguing story about Cilla O'Roarke as the voice of the night hours during her deejay shift. A stalker forces her to share her evenings with devastatingly handsome police detective Boyd Fletcher. I personally like this story not just because I enjoyed the romance between the h/h, but because of the page turner suspense our dear author applies into the story. The plot with a twist of mystery mixed with passionate scenes presents an element of an ideal novel to read.
 
I think I'm in for a real treat ending the day with the last few chapters of Night Smoke. And then by sundown I'll be heading a mysterious journey starting with THIS MAGIC MOMENT, still by my fav Nora Roberts.

It's Monday What are you reading?

It's Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Shiela @ book journey -- where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week.

I have finished reading several novels this week but have been too busy to post some sort of reviews -- including feeling lazy and tired all the time!

Reading the BRIDE ASSIGNMENT by Leigh Michaels was more of a curiousity for me knowing th author is my current teacher. I bought it from Amazon and read for the entire night. The story was ordinary but the writing was good with some intriguing parts toward the end, enough to make my evening entertained.

SAVOR THE MOMENT by Nora Roberts was something I've been waiting to read for awhile now and finally I've started reading this past Tuesday. I love the story of Laurel but wasn't much impressed with the Hero (Del). Roberts' unique voice and detailed descriptions are as usual the selling point for me. I can't wait for the next novel about Parker's story...

And because I'm such a big fan of NR, I started reading the NIGHT SHIFT by Nora Roberts, the first book in the Night Tales. I love the story about Cilla O'Roarke, a radio deejay during a night radio show. She has a stalker and police detective Boyd Fletcher came to her rescue -- to help solve the mystery and eventually falls for Cilla.

I skipped the NIGHT SHADOW because honestly I wasn't impressed with the characters on the first few chapters and didn't feel the Roberts kind of magic I quickly decided to move on to NIGHTSHADE.



WHAT I'M READING THIS WEEK...

I am currently finishing NIGHTSHADE by Nora Roberts and then I'll continue with NIGHT SMOKE, yet another Night Tales story. I look forward reading this because the heroine is Boyd's sister (Natalie). Boyd Fletcher is from the first book the NIGHT SHIFT.

I also plan on reading another three classic mysterious novels by Nora Roberts -- THIS MAGIC MOMENT, SEARCH FOR LOVE, and THE RIGHT PATH.

If I get lucky I should finish the week with Shana Abe's THE DREAM THIEF.

A Friendly Reminder for Savor the Moment

Friends from the bloggosphere and world of books...
TODAY is the release date of Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts' book three in the Bride Quartet. I am just posting a reminder to get yourself a copy from you favorite stores.

I got mine earlier today as a loyal supporter of Robb...I meant Roberts. ;-)
I read the first two books --  Vision in White and Bed of Roses last year. I was entertained with Roberts' voice and now excited for the Romance of Laurel and Del, though I'd be happier if I could also read now the Happy Ever After story of Parker instead of waiting for November to come. SIGH...

Description from Amazon:

New Love takes the cake in the third novel in Nora Roberts's new Bride Quartet-in a stunning French flap edition.

Wedding baker Laurel McBane is surrounded by romance working at Vows wedding planning company with her best friends Parker, Emma, and Mac. But she's too low-key to appreciate all the luxuries that their clients seem to long for. What she does appreciate is a strong, intelligent man, a man just like Parker's older brother Delaney, on whom she's had a mega-crush since childhood.

But some infatuations last longer than others, and Laurel is convinced that the Ivy League lawyer is still out of her reach. Plus, Del is too protective of Laurel to ever cross the line with her-or so she thinks. When Laurel's quicksilver moods get the better of her-leading to an angry, hot, all-together mind-blowing kiss with Del-she'll have to quiet the doubts in her mind to turn a moment of passion into forever...

I am a fan of J.D. Robb and I am loyal

Every time I put down a book from the In Death series by J.D. Robb I smile and then sigh, whispering the repetitive words – I always blog about, “This is my favorite thus far…” Just like how I felt after finishing the Conspiracy in Death. I sound like a broken record now, do I?


However, after reading the Loyalty in Death I was speechless and did not waste time – I reread the entire novel once again. Crazy indeed but I tell you my friends it was worth it – every time I absorb the words, chapters by chapters, the more I get to know the characters of the story and the more I fell in love with their lives and their struggles to find justice as well as to find the love for each other.

I started laughing about the intense sparks between McNabb and Peabody getting intimate at the elevator but couldn't get enough with each other. The brushing of their shoulders, the getting lost from reality after a passionate kiss – oh how much I enjoyed every minute of it reading about this couple. It was refreshing for once to see them express each other’s “heat of the moment” kind of feeling.

Then my heart leapt for joy the moment Eve handed the flowers to Roarke (sort of trying to make up for a previous fight she’d started). This part the author have shown how Eve learned so much from marrying Roarke, she’d finally learned to show her emotions by expressing herself with such small but surprising gestures.

Then I cried.

How can you not cry knowing Eve from the beginning as a stubborn and cold blooded person because of her past, suddenly was transformed into a person with words that could sweep your feet away? When Eve told Roarke how much he meant to her I was moved, not just by her words, but also because of the honesty of the author poured into this writing.

“…You're the best thing that ever happens to me. In my life you're what matters most. I love you so much it scares me. And I guess if I had a choice about it I wouldn't change it...”

And then to wrap it up, J.D. Robb delivers the best ending I could ever have from this series with Roarke and Eve fighting against time while loving each other to their last breath. During the count down...when Eve said the magic words "I love you Roarke" my heart melted and I pictured them together facing death, Eve in Roarke's blood, full of love and passion. And if I may add, the golden words of the sacrament of marriage echo into my ears -- "'till death do us part".

I love every minute I spent with this series. Thank God for such brilliant mind of J.D. Robb. Thank God for having the heart to feel the love over and over and over again.

And hey…it was a happy ending, okay.

Now I rest…

Friday 56: Strange Bedpersons

I found this meme from Laurel's blog hosted by Tonya at Storytime with Tonya and Friends and figured I'd give this meme a try.

Rules:

* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*Post a link along with your post back to this blog.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

FOR TODAY's SELECTION I thought of Jennifer Cruise's novel Strange Bedpersons I just finished reading last night. And since it was still in my bed stand I thought of sharing a part of this wonderfully written story of Romance between completely opposite characters -- Tess and Nick. So here's my Friday 56 for this week:

What he needed was a cross between Christine and Tess.

      He thought about being married to Tess and grinned. Of course, she'd have to get different clothes, and he'd have to get his housekeeper to come everyday to pick up after her, and she'd have to learn to shut up when it was politically necessary, but she'd also be around all the time, laughing, warming his life, warming his bed... 

Hmmm...if I haven't read this yet, it would be kind of a mystery to me with the hero thinking about two different women in his life. But as I recall, Christine is Nick's secretary which could be his potential wife if she'd only develop some expression, she could easily be upgraded from a secretary to a wife. But of course she'd have to be a Morticia Addams without enthusiasm -- remember Morticia? -- the fictional matriarch of "The Addams Family". Then there's Tess the obviously herione of the story but was also the opposite person for Nick in both belief and outlook in life. She is a democrat and he's a republican -- go figure -- the fire burning between them is overflowing!

This novel was definitely a fast read and the dialogues are funny, sexy, and entertaining.

Eve Dallas is making me crazy!

Tell me this is crazy – while reading Nora Robert’s newsletter tonight reminding her readers about “Savor the moment” the third book in the Bride Quartet to be released on April 27, I was thinking of Eve Dallas talking to me in her detective, firm yet respectable voice from the In Death Series, also by NR writing as J.D. Robb. I am becoming too attached with Eve, already confusing her with Nora – God help me!


How can I make myself come back into the Bride Quartet when all I keep thinking is the “Conspiracy in Death” I just read? Conspiracy is now my favorite novel of all time! I loved that book so much I had the urge of starting the next book in the series – “Loyalty in Death” ura mismo! Eve’s suspenseful career plus the Eve and Roarke romance are all swirling in my head I think I just lost the interest in reading other romance novels. I needed to stay sane so I paid Barnes and Noble a visit as I decided to pick up random books without ever knowing those two novels – Dark Deceptions by Dee Davis and What the Lady Wants by Jennifer Crusie. What have I done?

I am definitely going crazy, too much of Eve Dallas in my head…

It's Monday! What Are Your Reading?

It's Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Shiela @ book journey -- where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week.

I have seen this posting several times now and I just decided to give this a try...

This past week I have read more books than I would normally do. Part of it because work was slow due to the holiday week and part of it was the eagerness of jumping into the wagon of learning and re-learning English for better reading and writing. And one other important part is that I have challenged myself to finish all my 100+ novels (ahem -- hopefully this year) I've just acquired recently from a friend -- Mariana and they were all given for free. I couldn't believe the kindness shown to me even after I carried bags of these books into my tiny bedroom and linger at the thought of reading them all. I treasure my books and having been blessed with more makes my heart leap for joy.

What I have read this past week?

Intimate Enemies by Shana Abe - I love the story and would like to post a separate blog for what I thought about the novel. Christine gave me the idea of reading this and Mariana, well she gave me this book ;-). This is my first Historical Romance (ever!) -- Unfortunately I had this crazy idea of historical being boring and a waste of time -- of course I was wrong, big time. I plan on reading more historical romance in the future and explore other authors.

Holiday in Death by J.D. Robb - The author never cease to amaze me, I still love and enjoy her books, her style of writing, her unique voice. The characters were developed, the romance between Eve and Roarke is still very intimate and the scenes were carefully crafted providing a great appeal to readers of romance and of suspense. Somehow I have my eye on Peabody and McNab -- I really feel a future romance heating up between the two. Those parts were they both hate and annoy each other stage an interesting relationship that could further be developed into romance. I feel it...it's in the air. I must continue to pay attention to their future lives and hope and pray they end up together.

Impulse by Nora Roberts - I needed to re-read this book for a future writing inspiration, particularly building the emotions between two strangers in the island as well as capturing vivid scenery of the ocean, a picturesque hills, a moment next to a cliff, a secluded olive grove, a hiatus feeling to fall for a man of wealth and power. I have loved this novel before and often times I tell myself to revisit the moments with Rebecca and Stephen -- and there I was on that Thursday night reminiscing their love story in that small island of Corfu in Greece.

Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty - Reading this book was an interest I could not resist. I have been following Grammar Girl's Podcasts for a while but now I own the book as a gift from a friend. It's a quick read for someone like me who crave for learning and needed serious English help.

Fiction Gallery from Gotham Writer's Workshop - This anthology book recommended from my previous teacher contains 25 short but great stories from several acknowledged masters of short fiction as Anton Chekhov, Dorothy Parker, John Cheever, and Raymond Carver as well as such acclaimed contemporary writers as Edwidge Danticat, Pam Houston, Ethan Canin, T,.C. Boyle, Jhumpa Lahiri, and ZZ Packer. If you are interested in reading short stories I think this book is worth a try.



What I plan to read this week?
...more romance...all romance in different time and world...

Wishful thinking to read them all? -- maybe...but I'll find time somehow.

Lover Eternal and Lover Awakened by J.R. Ward

*      *       *       *       *

After a surprise introduction to the world and the black dagger brotherhood created by J.R. Ward through the first book in the series the “Dark Lover”, I did not waste time of moving on. I acquired the other five books and started reading the next two novels.

Lover Eternal, originally published in 2006 is about Rhage’s story – the vampire with the strongest appetite within the brotherhood, the best fighter, the quickest to act on his impulses, and the most voracious lover – for inside him burns a ferocious curse cast by the Scribe Virgin. Possessed by this dark side, Rhage fears the times when his inner dragon is unleashed, making him a danger to everyone around him.

Mary Luce, a survivor of many hardships, is unwittingly thrown into the vampire world and reliant on Rhage’s protection. With a life-threatening curse of her own, Mary is not looking for love. Her faith in miracles was lost years ago. But when Rhage’s intense animal attraction turns into something more emotional, he knows that he must make Mary his alone. And while their enemies close in, Mary fights desperately to gain life eternal with the one she loves…

What I like about this novel is the imperfections of Rhage as a vampire warrior and Mary as a human that makes them both perfect for each other – an impeccable reminder of the Beauty and the Beast classic tale of love. As the name implies Rhage has so much rage in him – uncontrollable temper causing him to change into a deadly beast. But when Mary (a human) comes into his vampiric life Rhage’s beast is tamed under Mary’s voice and passion. Plenty of emotions are involved in the story I feel attached to what Mary is going through first as human scared of Rhage, then as a woman falling in love for Rhage. I even like this novel better than the first and read it much quicker. The paperback novel’s 440+ pages is definitely not to be alarmed for as it could definitely turns out into a quick and smooth read. There were many intimate moments but don’t let it fool you as well because the plot of the story is very strong and entertaining it’ll hook you right through its first page. And the title is also obvious I am sure it’ll make the story eternal in my head for a very long time.

Lover Awakened, the 3rd book in the series also published in 2006 is Zsadisht’s story – the former blood slave, the vampire Zsadist still bears the scars from a past filled with suffering and humiliation. Renowned for his unquenchable fury and sinister deeds, he is a savage feared by humans and vampires alike. Anger is his only companion, and terror is his only passion—until he rescues a beautiful aristocrat from the evil Lessening Society.

Bella is instantly entranced by the seething power Zsadist possesses. But even as their desire for one another begins to overtake them both, Zsadist’s thirst for vengeance against Bella’s tormentors drives him to the brink of madness. Now, Bella must help her lover overcome the wounds of his tortured past, and find a future with her…

Who would think I would read this book the night after spending with Lover Eternal. Crazy alright! – But inconvenient time couldn’t stop me from getting to know Zsadist and feeling sorry for his past. In this book the author (Ward) has victoriously made me pity for Z to the extent that I wouldn’t mind at all if how many Lessers he’d kill so just he’d feel relieved. Although there were several times I wanted to punch his face for pushing Bella away from him. Thank goodness for Bella’s persistent on her love for Z, it all turned out picture-perfect in the end. There is definitely a sadistic and animalistic way of portraying Zsadist as the main character but I kind of like him raw and stubborn – it drives the unconditional love of Bella for him and awakens Zsadist from a long nightmare of his past. There is a happy ending after all.