Mariah Carey's movie GLITTER was the best movie ever made!!!

Yeah...imagine if every movie reviewer out there only fed you a load of BS. Imagine how much money you would spend watching terrible movies such as GLITTER or even Paris Hilton flicks.

Close your eyes and picture a world in which Siskel & Ebert or Ropert or whatever (still can't forget the Siskel & Ebert combo) give two thumbs up to everything they see....

Showgirls - Two Thumbs Up
Glitter - Two Thumbs Up
National Lampoon's Pledge This (with Paris Hilton) - A masterpiece
Date Movie - The Gone with the Wind of our generation

Apparently, someone over at Romancing the Blog is a little too tired of meanie reader review blogs. I'd be pissed at meanie publishing houses that approve everything presented to them, if I were her...

Check out Sybil's blog, if you don't know what I'm referring to.

Alex and....Addison?

I needed to post this, although I'm sick again...this time getting over some bad sushi. I'm not surprised, considering that I was all ready to go out tonight and meet some new people, take a Mochi making workshop and what not. Whatever...hopefully I'll get better by 2:30. In any case, I had to vent....I saw a brief preview of Grey's Anatomy last night. Looks like Alex and Addison will get together. I'm pissed. Not only that, but I recently read that Izzy and McSteamy will get involved also. What the fa? Are the writers on crack? Maybe this is their way of getting Izz and Alex together. No clue...I'm just super annoyed and ill!

More to come...

Happy Holidays!!!

I've been fighting the flu/cold for the last two weeks...ended up going to work sick because I didn't want to use my vacation days....but now...I am off 'til January 2, 2007. I AM SO INCREDIBLY HAPPY I CANNOT SEE STRAIGHT! No work for more than a week...a joy to my world indeed. I have an assortment of books to read and am ready to begin...today I finished my X-mas shopping and I can finally relax and begin the reading marathon.

Reviews to come and more updates.

I've been so out of the loop, I'm still trying to figure out the whole beta blogger thing everyone's been talking about this month (and last, too). Hmmm....

I hope you have a great holiday season!!! I plan on eating everything in sight!!! Hope you do, too...enjoy the rest of 2006!!!

Tagged by Devonna

6 Weird Things About Me (I prefer to use the word ECCENTRIC)

1. I love burning popcorn and then squeezing dijonnaise on some and then eating it (ok..stop staring at me!!!)

2. As a child, I often pretended to be someone else, a glamorous movie star named Judy Monroe. I was married to Charlie Sheen and was having an affair with Emilio Estevez (this was the 80s and growing up alone, with siblings very far apart from me in age, I had to entertain myself in some way besides reading...and yes, I snuck in the living room to watch Dynasty...hence, the affair part of my fantasy).

3. I have no pinky knuckles.

4. I love melting chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream and then digging for the cookie dough. I tend not to eat the melted ice cream.

5. I pick at my food a lot and am always grabbing other people's food for a taste. This irritates the hell out of everybody. BTW I only do this with people I feel extremely comfortable with.

5 favorite Christmas songs are:

1) White Christmas
2) Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
3) Little Drummer Boy
4) Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (I think...I don't know the exact title...from MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS)
5) Emmanuel (old Church song...excellent!!!).

I tag: Kristie, Holly, Dylan, Mailyn

Not sure if the girls will do this, but it's always good if you run out of things to blog about.

Enjoy!!!

Reviews...Reviews...and More Reviews...

Each time I read a novel by Elizabeth Boyle, I am reminded of what an amazingly good author she is. HIS MISTRESS BY MORNING was an absolute delight!!! I loved it. I've had the book in my TBR pile since I purchased it a few months ago. Although the premise was an original and, in my opinion, a very daring one, with its BACK TO THE FUTURE like plot line and dreamy air, I was afraid...afraid because it sounded too good to be true. Afraid because, after THIS RAKE OF MINE, I didn't know if I could stand another downer.

Boyle did not disappoint. I loved the heroine. What a delightful woman! I adored and fell in love with the hero, who is head over heels in love with his lady. Wow wow and wow. I just couldn't get enough of the book and once it was over I...I...I wanted more. I was pleased to read that others might follow this one with the same MAKE A WISH magical aspect that characterizes the novel. I am jumping up and down inside. I highly recommend this book, which has a great many secondary characters who fortunately do not take over the book and lead a reader to wish Boyle had 50 hands, computers, brains, et al...so that she could write books for each and every one before Christmas day. I am still over the moon. It gave me butterflies....a clear keeper for me!!! The more I read, the more I realize that character driven romances, if written well, are what grab me and hold my attention. I adored the book, which is more than I can say for....


Gosh...character driven this book was not. I didn't know who the love story was about 'til a few chapters into it because there was absolutely no chemistry between the leads. I felt like I was watching THE BREAKUP, only without the breakup but with the gag reflex factor of seeing Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaugh together as a couple (sorry, but I really hated that movie!!!). I never understood why the hero loved the heroine or why he even liked her. She was the biggest spoiled brat in all of England. Their first meeting made no sense; where was the attraction smoldering between them? Where? No clue...still trying to figure that one out. How do you say BORING in French??? Because that's what this novel, I hate to say, was. The majority of the novel was spent finding some French spy or whatever in France. One moment...SPOILER ALERT...the heroine is thin as a board and next thing we know....move on to the next scene and she's knocked up by the hero. I don't get to experience anything! ARGH! The book is one of Ivory earlier efforts and I wish it were better. I didn't finish it. I had about 50 pages left and I stopped reading. I had gone far enough. I wasn't interested in whether either of these nitwits lived or died; didn't give a shit about their kid either. Dumbasses! I sold the book to a UBS. Good riddance...which is exactly what I thought when I sold....


Had I read this book in order of its series' spot, I never would have read the masterpiece that is LORD OF SCOUNDRELS. That's how much I hated this book...no wonder it's never mentioned in BEST OF or FAVE lists. The book is horrendous. Well written...great use of vocabulary and what not, but...gosh...the characters...blaugh! No words...just gag gag and more gag. The hero is a slut ho gigolo and the heroine...gosh, she's ok, I guess but really sometimes she was too independent and stupid for her own good. I didn't care a crap about the two and, like Ivory's book, I ended my torture about 50 to 70 pages before the ending. Couldn't finish it, despite having invested more than a month on it. Yes, my dears...more than a month and I could never even stomach the thought of reading the book. Thank the Lord for small miracles, for leading me to read LORD OF SCOUNDRELS first. Do not recommend this one at all...and you really don't need to read it to get LOS, so don't worry for all those series whores (like myself)...you don't need this at all. Skip it...don't even think about reading it! Sorry, Ms. Chase, but I really disliked it...love all your other books, but really cannot stand this one. Which leads me to the last book read...



I don't know what it is about Heath...many fans still feel betrayed by her having abandoned the Western genre. I started out reading her Victorians and I don't find them all that bad. Of course, who knows what I'll think of them once I finally get around to read the masterpieces (which I own but am waiting for time off to savor...only a few more days...joy!!!), but for now I LOVE HEATH'S NOVELS. They are really good. At times, I find myself wanting to hit one or two characters over the head with a hammer, but overall the stories leave me with butterflies and a feeling of well-being. A DUKE OF HER OWN did just that; it didn't have the typical happy ending I perhaps wanted, but it was a happy ending nonetheless and it left me satisfied and wanting for more. I'm excited for the other books in this series. Not too happy about having to wait 'til October of next yr for one of them though..but I will manage (see, girls...developing patience here...). I love books where heroes remain speechless and flustered when the heroine is in their presence and we get to see much of that in this book. I loved it and recommend it. Wish I could say more, but I'm almost too pooped to review it. It's a good beginning to what promises to be a good series...not a masterpiece or anything like that, but a good book nonetheless.

I've rediscovered my joy for reading and am happy to inform you that more is on its way...more reading, more reviews and more tidbits re: romance novels.

Coming Soon

I'm alive and well....just exhausted from a little project I had to do all last week.

I have several items coming soon. One of them is a surprise! I'm very excited about it!!!

Keep on checking the blog for more updates in the next few days.

Attention All Romance Readers

Spotted this post on the Avon board. I hope you all can help me figure out the name of this book because now I want to read it. It sounds incredible.

The hero and the heroine fall in love and are very happy then something happens, maybe war, and the hero totally forgets the heroine and their love. After some time they meet again and he falls in love with her again. He is also very jealous of the man from the heroine's past whom she still loves very much not realising that that man is himself. P.S. The book I am looking for was a historical written in third person and the heroine was definitely a virgin and the hero was her one and only lover. I read it years ago prior to 1995 but it might have been a book from the 80s because the hero was very alpha.

P.S.The heroine of my book was not out for revenge of any kind. After they were separated she kept looking for the hero hoping she would find him one day. It is not: A Heart Possessed by Katherine Sutcliffe, A Promise to Return by Gail Whitiker.

The heroine's only love is the hero; she never hooks up with any other man. Hope this all helps. It's driving me nuts...and I've been so good, too. I haven't bought a new book in more than a month. I still haven't purchased the November books and that's saying a lot. I'm trying to read my TBR books, but I must have this one...must must must.

Still Here

I'm alive, I promise. Been extremely busy so I haven't had a chance to read any new books...but I will...this weekend. Will post this weekend.

For Those Who Are Interested...

I've been working on a couple of blogs lately...one with past journal entries and another with recent up to date ones...one's finished, the other one? Not even close, but I'm getting there. Until then, link to my new personal blog...it's a bit...err...depressing. I've had a rough weekend.

It's still in the works, so if you have any suggestions, please let me know...and Mailyn...err...I know you're gonna have a few. The blog is black, for goodness' sake. I need color!!!

TOO WICKED TO TAME

Would a Reluctant Beauty Ever Wed…

Headstrong Lady Portia Derring has an impeccable pedigree…and not a penny to her name. Which is why she is alone on the rain-swept Yorkshire moor, waiting for a wealthy earl she has never met but whom her family insists she wed. When she’s nearly trampled by the dashing blackguard’s stallion, Portia is more determined than ever to refuse Heath Moreton’s suit. Handsome devil he may be, but she could never marry a rogue who’s so clearly out of control!

A Wild, Incorrigible Beast?

An avowed bachelor, scion of the notorious “Mad” Moreton clan, Heath won’t be shackled in matrimony. Why then does this lovely, rain-drenched chit excite him so? Desire consumes him, but the eminently beddable lady resists his well-practiced seductions. Now only one route remains: Heath must ignore his bad blood, vanquish his inner beast…and prove to Portia that she's the only woman capable of taming his heart.

Ok...before I get to the plot, I know I've seen this cover somewhere before, but where? It's driving me crazy. If you know the previous whereabouts of this cover, please let me know. Reward is a great big thank you (seriously, this is driving me nuts!). As for the book above, I own Jordan's first book with Avon ONCE UPON A WEDDING NIGHT. Haven't read it yet and of course, despite this, I'm all ready to buy her second book. I'm seriously deranged and in need of a financial advisor (who will probably tell me to stop buying books, unless I want to work the rest of my days).

I laughed out loud when I first read the plot of this book. I don't know why but I pictured Fabio in one of his cheesy romance covers hitting himself in the chest and roaring. The girl sounds fiesty, like most of the heroines overpopulating the British Empire. I'll read the book, but I can't help think it a tad bit...err.....unoriginal? Something about the "mad" earl ticks me off. Why must all earls or dukes have a crazy relative in the midst of them? And why does the madness always make said earls and dukes so determined to shun the love of the women of their dreams. Don't get it.

On a side note, I was saddened to learn today that a real life romance couple, Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Philippe, is DUNZO! Another couple bites the dust. So sad!

The Five Truths

Tagged by Holly

1. I regret the moment I decided to go to law school, despite the fact that I met several amazing people because of it. I regret not having dropped out and I hate the fact that I am a lawyer and not a professor or teacher which is what I am most suited for. I regret the fact that I regret it and that I sometimes feel so powerless to change things, to change myself and my profession. Despite the fact that I sometimes lie and tell my friends that I don't regret it because "if it hadn't been for law school, I wouldn't have met you," I do regret it very much. I can't help it. My life would have been a great deal different had I not gone. I still don't know what possessed me to do it. I never really liked law school and I never had much respect for my professors either. Jerks!

2. I suffered from an eating disorder in college, something I don't think I've ever completely gotten over. I'm very critical of myself, my body and hate weighing myself at the doctor's, which is a problem because everytime I go to Kaiser Permanente (SUCKS!) for anything, they insist on weighing me. Last time I refused and they looked at me like I was crazy! I just don't want to weigh myself because I know that if the numbers aren't low enough, I might exercise more or start a detox diet or something. Can't have that...have come too far to go back.

3. I want to move to Italy so badly it hurts. I don't know what's stopping me. Fear, I suppose. How ironic that I was the one who wanted to move back to the US (my family moved to Italy in 1986 and stayed there 'til 1991; I bitched and moaned the whole time). To tell you the truth, I think anywhere in Europe would be great. I'm so tired of being stressed and the US is #1 when it comes to that. I'm tired and sick of it.

4. I made a list a few years ago on what qualities my future husband should have. I add to this list every now and then. I know it's silly but I'm not settling for mediocrity. Did enough of that in my early 20s. NO MORE!!!

5. I think I would die if I were to lose my sense of smell. Most of my memories are scent-driven. The smell of honeysuckle makes me happy; I think of my childhood and Disneyland, picnics with my family. The smell of firewood burning makes me think of Italy and summer barbeques. To me, it's almost more important than eye sight!!!

Mrs...Clooney?

Interesting...seems I look like Lisa Snowden quite a bit, according to this site I stole from Holly. Does this mean I have a chance with George Clooney? For those of you not up to date with celebrity gossip (which I know EVERYTHING about...just test me, I know it all!!!), Snowden has been the on/off again girlfriend of George Clooney for years. Right now they're off, but it's only a matter of time...the man can't seem to get enough of her. Gosh...makes one hope, doesn't it. Geoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooorge!

Vattene Amore

I have a lot to post and will do so tonight, but until then I'll leave you with one of my favorite Italian songs. It's more than 15 years old, but it's a classic. Such beautiful voices and lyrics. You may not understand a thing they're saying but enjoy it anyway. The singers are Mietta and Amedeo Minghi.

Help!

I just spent 2 hours fiddling around blogger and trying to create (i.e. download from another site) a template for a new blog of mine. WHERE'S MY HERO? will still exist and I'll try to keep it more romance-focused. My other blog (name still in the works) will be more of a venting tool for me, so watch out. The ladies of Sanctuary's Finest inspired me to do this. I love reading their individual blogs, love hearing about their friends, lives, boys, etc. Plus, I have a lot to whine about...well, only because it helps me vent...I don't really have that bad a life, to be honest.

Back to my point, I spent two hours fiddling with blogger and have accomplished nothing. I missed LAGUNA BEACH 3. Argh! Good thing I taped it! Yes, I'm not only a romance series whore, but I'm also addicted to reality tv (and NO, I'm not ashamed of being fascinated by the snotty teenagers who live in Laguna Beach...should I be?).

I need help....err.....Mailyn?

London's Perfect Scoundrel

The ton gossips call him "Saint" -- but the Marquis of St. Aubyn has well earned his reputation as London's perfect scoundrel. Evelyn Ruddick knows she should avoid him at all costs -- but the strikingly beautiful lady wants to aid the children of the Heart of Hope Orphanage, and he heads the board of trustees. Evie is determined to teach the charming, arrogant man a lesson in compassion, but it won't be so easy -- especially since his touch is setting her desire aflame, making Evie yearn to submit to his passionate instruction ... The idea of joining in her "project" is unthinkable, but this enchantress refuses to give up! So what else is there for a self-respecting rake to do but seduce the lady? Yet soon it is he who is being seduced by Evie's tender heart and fiery blushes. Could the temptation of long, passionate nights in her arms bring about the impossible? Could the disreputable Saint at long last be reformed?

I read this book more than a year ago and the thought of its hero still manages to set my heart ablaze! Michael "Saint" St. Aubyn is one of the hottest heroes around and...sorry, Kristie...he just happens to beat Derek Craven by a couple of points (hard to believe, I know...especially since I rant and rave about Mr. Craven and even have a picture of him for all to see).

Something about Saint always manages to make my heart sing...maybe it was the way he treats Evie...maybe the fact that in some ways he reminds me of Rhett Butler, one of literature and the silver screen's greatest rakes. LONDON'S PERFECT SCOUNDREL, as a book, is not perfect. There are instances in which I wish Evie fought more for her man, but you'll want to read this book just the same for the sole reason of getting to know the rakish Michael. I will leave it at that. I loved him and love him still. St. Aubyn holds a special place in my heart for he was the first hero to make me wish and pray I were his heroine.

My review of this book is leaving a lot out...it's not really even a review. I just wanted to get you all to read this book and discover one of most delicious heroes around.

The book is part of a 3 part series, Lessons in Love (yeah, it's cheesy...so?). They're all good, but LONDON'S PERFECT SCOUNDREL is by far the best IMO. Another series precedes this one and I really would recommend reading it first because many of the LESSONS characters are present...the series is WITH THIS RING. I would read in this order:

1. REFORMING A RAKE

2. MEET ME AT MIDNIGHT

3. A MATTER OF SCANDAL

4. THE RAKE

5. LONDON'S PERFECT SCOUNDREL

6. ENGLAND'S PERFECT HERO

Enjoy!

You Snooze, You Lose

I'm back from LA. Wedding was awesome...I had so much fun. Glad I didn't miss it...because I almost did.

Last week I reserved an airport shuttle. The driver got to my apartment at 3:45AM. I had a 6:08 flight out of Oakland Airport. I dozed off during the drive there and woke up to signs welcoming me to San Francisco International. The driver brought me to the wrong airport. I started foaming at the mouth and went apesh-t! I yelled at the driver, asked him why the fa we were at SFO instead of Oakland. The driver then proceeded to yell back at me and ask me if I remembered the price of the service given me by the reservation agent. I told him I didn't (I was too pissed and honestly I don't even know if I got it). He said that proved the miscommunication was my fault. I still don't get his reasoning. I specifically said I needed to go to Oakland when reserving the flight. He got me another shuttle. I got to Oakland at 5:45, missed my flight and had to wait 3 more hours for another one. Fog was heavy in LA and the flight I got on was delayed by almost an hour. I got into LA at almost 1PM!!!

I'm ok now. I didn't go to work today because I was so tired! I'm ready to read books now...ready to get back to blogging about romance novels and ready to start up another blog dedicated to more personal matters. I'll keep you all posted!

Book Signing with Hern and Long

In March 2006 I had the pleasure of meeting two of my favorite authors: Candice Hern and Julie Anne Long. I thought I'd post a picture. When I first found out Candice Hern and Julie Anne Long actually lived in San Francisco, I was overcome with joy. Every author seems to be from Texas or somewhere in the Midwest. I never realized they lived here, in my neck of the woods. The picture was taken during a booksigning. I was somewhat nervous when I first stepped into the book store. I was the first one there because I'm slightly psychotic when it comes to time and I like being the first one anywhere...yeah, I know...I have a problem but I hate it when people are tardy. So rude! And really, isn't being on time close to being tardy? Exactly.

The ladies were extremely nice and friendly. I don't know what I expected; I didn't expect them to start throwing books at me or anything, but...I don't know. They were very welcoming and I encourage anyone to meet up with them, if you ever get a chance. Read their books, too. I love them. Maybe I'm biased, but I do.

Queen of the Electric Slide

I'm leaving for LA tomorrow morning at 6:08. I am not looking forward to it AT ALL. One of my college friends' is getting married and, as happy as I am for her, I'm just not looking forward to getting all dolled up and ready for a wedding. Is that bad? Should I repent? Should I grin and bear it, suck it up, get over it? I will. I have no choice, but I hate weddings. I hate hate hate them with a passion. I don't know if it's the fact that I've never had one of my own or what. Personally, I've never liked them...not even when I was younger, innocent and full of hopes and dreams for a hunky Johnny Depp to come storming into my life.

Oh...did I mention that at the wedding I'm sitting next to some woman whom I've known on and off for more than 10 years and who has never actually uttered a word to me. I thought she was mute for the longest time. She's not...she just doesn't speak very much....to me.

Oh...and contrary to what everyone has been saying (those at work trying to comfort me), I will not meet the man of my dreams there. At this point, I just want to have a couple of drinks and dance the really bad dance I'm so good at (I think I'm a terrible dancer...except the electric slide. I'm really good at the cheesy dances. I rock the electric slide!).

The fact that I will not be getting any sleep tonight probably has something to do with my lack of enthusiasm. The shuttle's picking me up at 3:45AM; my flight's at 6. I get there at 7:30. Wedding's at 5, ends at 10. I leave early Sunday morning. My co-workers have been warned. Monday will not be pretty!

Upcoming Books and More

Coming December 26, 2006

Shy, intelligent widow Anastasia Whittig is really a Lady Spy in name only. Though she invents important items and decodes evidence, she’s hardly ventured into the field and keeps herself wrapped in a shroud of mourning for her late husband. She’s perfectly content to continue her sheltered life, but when one of her best friend’s is shot, she’s forced into service at the side of Lucas Tyler.

Lucas is a daring, talented spy, driven to solve the case of attacks on his fellow agents. He doesn’t want any help, and certainly not from Ana. But as the two edge ever closer to the disturbing truth, they cannot keep from developing a grudging respect for each other. And they cannot ignore the undeniable desire that threatens to change both their worlds.

I'm enjoying Petersen's books a great deal; she's an excellent author. I'm getting this book...hopefully I'll get a gift card for Christmas. I'm broke!

The first of a new, four-book series set in Victorian England.
Coming March 2007

The story of two people who are definitely not destined to be soul mates. Harry and Emma have nothing in common. They feel no spark. They don't even like each other. They certainly don't want to complicate their lives by anything as inconvenient as falling in love. Even Cupid has given up on them. And then, one shattering, lightning-bolt, make-your-toes-curl kiss changes everything they thought they knew about love and about each other.

Her last book was ok. I didn't love it but I didn't hate it either. I have a feeling I'll end up getting this book. I'm a sucker for love/hate relationships. Hopefully, the characters won't jump in the sack within the first two chapters.

Judith Ivory is still missing in action; her website has been updated though...by her fans (yeah, I was halfway up in the air when I realized Ivory had nothing to do with it). Check it out.

It's Alive...It's Alive

Yes, Mailyn...there is a Santa Claus! I finally have both a computer in my own apartment AND internet access. I've always believed in miracles but now that I finally got my ass out to Circuit City and actually got a computer I REALLY BELIEVE! I felt like friggin' Dr. Frankenstein as I was installing the internet and got everything working.

Grey's Anatomy is playing in the background. I have a feeling Meredith Grey will again win for TSTL heroine of the week. What a moron!!!

Duel of Hearts

Lilah Chadwick thinks she's the apple of her father's eye-until he announces his plans to marry. Hoping to counter his decision, she rushes to London. Adam Harleston, the ninth Earl of Drakesley, is a man possessed. His young cousin has been seduced by an older gentleman, and he's determined to save her honor before it's too late. But wedding bells are about to ring for Lilah's father and Drake's cousin. Joining forces, Lilah and Drake vow to stop their loved ones from making a drastic mistake-only to discover that falling in love is never a mistake....

Need a good laugh AND a wonderful romance? Get thee to a bookstore and buy Diane Farr's DUEL OF HEARTS. I bought it a couple of months ago, after running across an AAR review. The book is hilarious. The dialogue between both the lead and secondary characters will have you laughing out loud. The story is fresh and light...no drama or depressing dilemmas in this story. It's fast paced and there is never a dull moment. Read the AAR review for more info. I agree with it entirely. I have to say that I initially was tempted to put the book down. The heroine is very spoiled and she throws a few tantrums in the first two chapters that makes you just want to wring her neck. I'm glad I continued reading...the heroine got better, much better and she met her match in the hero...not a rake, rogue or scum jerk. He's really not like any hero I've ever encountered. Intrigued? I highly recommend the book.

Book is sold in ebook format also, for those ebook lovers!

TSTL Heroine of the Week

OBSESSION

I'm surprised the word OBSESSION isn't being used incessantly in romance novels...the word WICKED is everywhere. Whatever....

It's difficult figuring out what books to buy. There's always that small chance the book you've been yearning for is a total dud, a flop, a stinker, a piece of shit!

I'm currently obsessively almost stalkerishly (is that a word?) searching websites for upcoming releases. I'm going nuts and can't stop. Must.buy.more.books.now!!! I have hundreds of books I've never read, books I could probably fill a library with (the Main Library, not my own personal one), yet I insist upon buying more, quickly depleting what little funds I have. There has to be a name for this condition I suffer from...this cannot be normal.

I already have my upcoming months planned. The following are books I long to buy, even though I know little about them...yeah, I know I'm asking for duds, but whatever...it's fun to hope and believe that maybe...just maybe I'll find THE ONE...that one book that will make my stomach do flips, give me butterflies and put a permanent smile on my face for at least a day.

Here you go:

November
Lorraine Heath - A DUKE OF HER OWN
Jennifer Ashley - THE MAD, BAD DUKE
Renee Bernard - A LADY'S PLEASURE

December
Mary Balogh - THE GILDED WEB

2007
Gaelen Foley - HER SECRET FANTASY, HER SECRET PLEASURE, HER ONLY DESIRE (trilogy)
Loretta Chase - NOT QUITE A LADY
Adele Ashworth - THE DUKE'S INDISCRETION
Lisa Kleypas - SUGAR DADDY
Julianne MacLean - SURRENDER TO A SCOUNDREL

Lisa Valdez - PATIENCE

Laura Lee Guhrke - AND THEN HE KISSED HER

Barbara Pierce - SINFUL BETWEEN THE SHEETS

Elizabeth Thornton - THE PLEASURE TRAP

Sara Bennett - MISTRESS OF SCANDAL

Candice Hern - LADY BE BAD

Julie Anne Long - THE SECRET TO SEDUCTION

Julia Quinn - THE SECRET DIARIES OF MISS MIRANDA CHEEVER

Mary Balogh - WEB OF LOVE

Mary Balogh - SIMPLY MAGIC

Mary Balogh - SIMPLY PERFECT
Melody Thomas - WILD & WICKED IN SCOTLAND

This is the list for now...I'm forgetting a lot, I know, but right now this is all my mind can handle.

Do you know of any other books I should add to my list???

Errrr...huh?

On the trail of fortune... Adventurous Josephine Hale is determined to live up to her scandalous heritage. With half of a crumbling treasure map that belonged to her grandfather, the legendary pirate, in her possession, the bold and beautiful lady is half-way to a fortune. Unfortunately, the remainder of the map belongs to Stephen Doubleday, Earl of Westman, her family's sworn enemy—and Josie will do anything to get her hands on it...even if it means seducing the handsome rogue.

And a passion beyond dreams...Utterly destitute, Stephen never dreamed a fairy tale about pirate's treasure would turn out to be true—bringing him a possible fortune and a passionate lover. But will joining in this wild, impetuous beauty's perilous undertaking be the biggest mistake of his life? Or will it lead Stephen and Josie to a treasure far more precious than pirate gold—a fiery and forever love?

I'm sorry but she lost me. Shana Galen totally lost me. What the hell? I needed to read the premise about 4 times in order to figure out what the heck was going on. It's too messy, contrived and I don't know...boring? Or maybe I'm just bored with the redundant VIRGIN TURNED SLUT storyline...food for thought.

I really enjoyed Galen's earlier novel WHEN DASHING MET DANGER...loved it, as a matter of fact, but PRIDE AND PETTICOATS left me wanting and her last novel was a big dud, according to AAR (it got an F review). Hey, for all I know, GOOD GROOM HUNTING could be better than LORD OF SCOUNDRELS, but at this point I'll wait for the reviews of fellow bloggers and independent review sites. Deep down I hope it's good...only because I really enjoyed DASHING and I've been a tad too sentimental lately.

Book is out January 30, 2007.

BTW - might as well, since I've been bitchy enough here...I hate the cover!!! Cheesy!

The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever

No more Bridgertons: Julia Quinn's upcoming Summer 2007 release will feature a young lady by the name of Miranda Cheever, in lover with her best friend's brother Nigel Bevelstoke, Viscount Turner. The novel is set in Late Regency England. Mucho interested!!!

Oh...and she's releasing more 2nd Epilogues in Spring 2007 (can you tell I'm not remotely interested???).

I wish we knew more about Miranda but it's still too early. I want more books already!

Upcoming Kleypas Contemp News

Briefly checked out the avon board and had to post this immediately. A reader posted the following reviews of Lisa Kleypas's first contemporary, SUGAR DADDY, being released March 2007 (can't wait that long...argh!)...read up:

Review #1 - Publishers Weekly
Mass market bestseller Kleypas makes her hardcover debut with this entertaining chronicle of Liberty Jones's rise from the trailer park to life in a Texas mansion. The daughter of a Hispanic father (who dies during Liberty's childhood) and a white mother, Liberty pines for the hunky bad boy Hardy Cates while mom Diana has another daughter, Carrington, and scores the occasional windfall to keep the family afloat. After Diana is killed in a traffic accident, Liberty raises Carrington, gets a beauty school scholarship and lands a gig at an exclusive Houston salon. There she meets investment mogul Churchill Travis, who takes a paternal shine to her. A horse-riding accident puts Churchill in a wheelchair, and he hires Liberty to be his personal assistant, with the catch that both sisters have to live with him. Churchill's oldest son, Gage, immediately distrusts Liberty, and their vicious bickering, as romance readers know, can lead to only one thing. Things get messy once Hardy, now rich, reappears and a Travis family secret is revealed. Though Liberty's plight and redemption are straight out of the soaps and the prose has its trite moments, Kleypas's many readers will root for Liberty, a fiery and likable underdog. (Mar.) Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

Review #2 - Kirkus Reviews
Growing up as an outsider in Welcome, Texas, Liberty Jones struggles to find love and acceptance. Bookish, shy and mindful of her mixed heritage (a Mexican father and a blonde, blue-eyed mother), Liberty is a social pariah. Though she's a beauty, her trailer-park home and low socioeconomic standing do nothing to further her stock among the other kids in town. She falls hard for trailer-park hottie Hardy Cates, a tough cowboy with rugged good looks and a wild streak. He sticks around long enough to steal the teenaged Liberty's heart before leaving Welcome to pursue his fortune. Loss becomes a constant in her life; tragic accidents claim both of her parents before she's 18. Forced to abandon her dreams of college, she learns a trade to support herself and her five-year-old sister, Carrington. With a beautician's certificate in hand, Liberty heads to Houston, where she lands an apprenticeship at a swank salon and vows to work her way into the middle class, one highlight appointment at a time. Her rise from poverty speeds up when obscenely wealthy businessman Churchill Travis takes a fancy to her. He offers her a job as his personal assistant and opens his home to the sisters. Churchill's family gives them the cold shoulder, but then (wouldn't you know it?) the son who resisted Liberty the most becomes smitten with the stunning interloper. Just when Liberty seems to be on the primrose path, Hardy saunters back into the picture and stirs up trouble. The author unabashedly and unsubtly capitalizes on Texas stereotypes: Big-haired, long-nailed women lust for the trappings of wealth; headstrong oilmen have fiery tempers and rapacious sexual appetites. But she also knows when to let the plot runwild and when to pull on the reins. Sinfully pleasurable melodrama. First printing of 225,000. Agent: Mel Berger/William Morris Agency

I'm very excited about this book and can't wait for it. I'm glad to know it's not a stinker because a) I love Lisa Kleypas and b) it's her first effort away from AVON and I want her to succeed! I wonder which hero I will love the most.....love triangle...sounds like both men are worth having. I have a feeling it'll be Hardy (oily beau hunk hero #1)...or maybe Gage (rich heir hero #2). Sounds a lot like her historicals which is good, with Hardy playing the rugged stable boy turned successful businessman, Gage the rich and arrogant duke and Liberty the bluestocking whom they both fall in love with. Who will win? Is it called SUGAR DADDY for a reason? Will the heroine just tell both men to f-off and get together with Gage's rich old dad??? I need to know!!!

FINALLY

I finally got a new computer. So glad!!! It's about time. Internet will be installed next week...so only a few more days and I will join my friends in blogland on a daily basis. 'bout time!!!

Solo Importas Tu

This is the theme song for my favorite telenovela, LA DAMA DE ROSA, which I watched religiously when I lived in Italy. The singer wrote the song for his wife, who is seated on the stage, happy and in love. Gosh, I'm so jealous!!! Lucky woman!

A ROSE AT MIDNIGHT

Mailyn once posted a review on Anne Stuart's A ROSE AT MIDNIGHT. I immediately had to order the book on amazon! The hero is dark, sexy and brooding. He's not one of those "I'M A MEAN OLE RAKE EVEN THOUGH I HAVE A HEART OF GOLD AND WOULD NEVER THINK OF KILLING, KIDNAPPING OR ANYTHING ELSE THAT MIGHT REALLY MAKE ME A BAD GUY" kind of dark hero. He's truly is, as Samuel L. Jackson would describe him, one badass mother fucker! I fell in love instantly!

The plot finds Ghislaine "Gilly" de Lorgny working as a chef in a noblewoman's home; she is obsessed with revenge and lives to kill Nicholas Blackthorne whom she blames for the death of her family and the loss of her innocence. Through a series of circumstances (he's the cousin of the woman Gilly works for), they meet and the book is one fantastic journey from there. The characters are not perfect and the issues they deal with are truly traumatic and mind-blowing. There's a lot of hate, regret, remorse and pain that the two need to come to terms with before finding their happily ever after and admit their love for each other.

I loved this book and adored the richly depicted characters. Anne Stuart has a knack for creating characters you want to both murder and hug at the same time. I can't get enough of her historicals and consider myself fortunate to have read this one!

I'll leave you with one of my favorite lines from the book. The hero has just finished kissing the heroine:

He released her slowly, breaking the kiss first, trailing his mouth across her cheek until he knew she could stand without falling. Until he knew he could stand without falling. And then he stepped back.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!! I love it...love it! Can you feel the emotion? Can you feel him falling in love with her? My stomach still has butterflies from this romance. Read it! Do whatever you can! It's well worth whatever they charge for it. Unfortunately, it's no longer in print. I got mine on amazon! Trust me and trust Mailyn's review (which I agree with 100%), you will not be disappointed!!!

What a wonderful story!!!

Blogging Question

I need help! How do I post something from youtube?

Miscellaneous

I've never read anything by Renee Bernard, but Sybil's gotten me all excited about her upcoming releases. I can't wait for her first book out 10/31/06.

Anyone buy THE VAMPIRE WHO LOVED ME by Teresa Medeiros yet? Can someone explain what the deal is with Avon's fonts lately...and the spacing? What the fa? The font itself is close to 18 and each page isn't completely filled. Avon literally gives you about 2 small paragraphs per page. I feel like I'm reading a kids' book, POLLYANNA for 12 year olds or something. I don't understand it. I guess if they were to print it as a 200 page book instead of a 370 (more or less) pager, they would also have to charge $4.99 - $5.99 for it, instead of the $7.99 they ripped out of my pocket. I realize I didn't have to buy the book. I didn't even notice 'til I got home (and really it wouldn't have made a difference because I've been itching to read the book for months) and I was a little ticked! Anyone else find this extremely irritating? The font keeps on getting bigger. It was huge in Heath's PROMISE ME FOREVER but really Avon's pushing it with the #18 font of THE VAMPIRE.

Speaking of Lorraine Heath, the author has donated a copy of the very rare (I've never read it, hear it's amazing and I can't find it anywhere) ALWAYS TO REMEMBER to help fellow author Julie Kenner raise funds for LOVE WITH BOUNDARIES, an organization that assists in aiding orphaned children in China. The book is being auctioned off on ebay. As of now, the price is up to $17 but there are 6 days left and you know that means it'll probably end up being sold for close to $100 (if not more).

PATIENCE, MY SWEETS

In 2005, I read a book that very nearly knocked my socks off. It was sexy, smart and had my undivided attention the entire time. The book, PASSION by Lisa Valdez, received a lot of praise, but also a lot of criticism for its explicit sex scenes and its NC-17 language. I loved it (yeah, I'm a bad bad girl). The love story was believable and didn't completely revolve around sex. Of course, when I heard that this would only be the beginning of a great series (I'm a series whore...yes, I admit it), I jumped up and down and shouted HALLELUJAH!!! The second book, PATIENCE, was set to be released August 2006. Today is October 6, 2006 and the book has not yet been published. WHAT THE FUCK?!?

The author failed to meet the publishing deadline and her book was therefore postponed!!! It was initially believed that the book would be postponed to October (clearly not!) or November. Well, ladies...the book's not called PATIENCE for nothing. Seems as if we'll have to dig deep within for a bit of it.. PATIENCE by Lisa Valdez will be released May 2007. I can only say that it better be good! The book is being released almost two years after the first. I mean this is just ridiculous.

The author e-mailed a fellow fan the following explanation:

"I'm sorry for the long wait.....but I really needed to make this book into all that it was meant to be. I hope you'll hang in there."

Whatever!!!! Do we really have a choice? Does this mean she delayed it even more or did the publishing house simply not have any room in their schedule for PATIENCE? The book is highly anticipated...at least by moi. Gimme a break though! TWO FUCKING YEARS! I thought waiting 8 months for a series book was bad! I'm really disappointed I'll have to wait for this book. It better rival LORD OF SCOUNDRELS and A ROSE AT MIDNIGHT (more on that later) for excellence. I will run to Barnes & Noble when it's released. I'm only hoping that I won't have to wait another two years for PRIMROSE, Book 3.

UPDATE: I e-mailed Lisa Valdez and received a response. It looks like the reason for the delay is very simple: Lisa Valdez wanted the book to be the best it could be. I've got to say I admire her for not just turning anything in (like plenty of authors I know)/ I will be patient and I'm very excited to read this book now more than ever. I have a feeling it'll be better than PASSION (if that's possible!!!)

Here a Book, There a Book, Everywhere a Book Book...

No, ladies...your eyes are not deceiving you. Above is a picture of a warehouse full of books, books and more books and this weekend I WAS THERE!!! Every year the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library hold a massive four day book sale. On and off for those four days, I was there rummaging through piles of books, dropping everything in my cart and buying, buying, buying and not coming even close to breaking the bank. Prices varied from $1 to $10, with everything being dropped to $1 on Sunday. I think I bought close to 50 books for less than $80. The books are in excellent condition; some are out of print hardcovers you'd probably find at a UBS for $50.

I managed to find Mary Balogh's SIMPLY LOVE on sale for only $1. This is the same book that went on sale as a hardcover a few months ago that I refused to buy because of the price ($23). I was going to hold off for the paperback, on sale in March 2007. Well...looks like it does pays to wait. Now I know I cheated Ms. Balogh on some good hard earned profit by buying the book for a buck, but honestly....how do I say this without sounding like a bitch...I don't give a crap!!! All I can think about is that I bought it for a dollar...a dollar!!! I saved $22!!! That alone deserves a brownie...and I'm craving one right about now.

I have enough books for a couple of years, but I'm now contemplating buying more. I'm missing my romances and am now slowly coming out of my slump. I'm headed to buy THE VAMPIRE WHO LOVED ME later today. The book received an incredible review on AAR. It's a series book; I enjoyed the first one AFTER MIDNIGHT and can't wait to read this.

Am I crazy? My parents think I need to calm down when it comes to book buying. They believe I overdo it. Maybe I did this weekend, but who can blame me?!? Check out the picture above again. I felt like a kid in a candy store. It definitely energized me. I needed it. I can now finish reading Anne Stuart's A ROSE AT MIDNIGHT. Review to follow.

Junior Slump?

Last night was Episode 2 of Grey's Anatomy....can you say BORING? I was bored to tears...I did enjoy Addison's mini breakdown and the return of McSteamy, although I knew he would be returning from all the spoilers lurking on the internet. The writers need to do something about Meredith and McA-hole. Yeah, I think he's an A-hole. I'm sick of their relationship; it's not exciting anymore, if it ever was. Izzie's storyline needs to change ASAP; I'm honestly tired of MENTAL INSTITUTION Izzie. And Alex? What a pig!!! I still want him to be with Izzie though. I was not into the show at all last night. Hopefully, the show isn't experiencing a slump. Maybe it's just me...experiencing a slump, that is. I haven't worked out in weeks...I'm like Izzie, but without the dead boyfriend and the baking. I need a storyline change ASAP also.

Anyone else hate Grey's Anatomy last night? I don't even remember which patient died...it was that bad.

Writers better focus more on regulars not named McDreamy and Meredith if they want to keep my attention.

Hospital Romance

I love Grey's Anatomy, too! Actually, more than love. I am obsessed, addicted, cannot get enough of it. The show is engaging, smart, sexy. I've never liked hospital drama. I hate ER; couldn't stand CHICAGO HOPE. In fact, I was certain I would hate Grey's Anatomy, so...Season 1 came and went. Didn't watch it. Season 2 started...didn't watch it. It just "didn't appeal to me," or so I thought.

I've known Conny for 11 years. We were friends in college, roommates/enemies (living with a friend is hazardous to that friendship...don't ever do it) for a year. She is identical to me...we may not look alike; she's of Taiwanese descent. I'm of Italian descent. She's has no curves whatsoever and I'm...Italian. Petite and curvy. We look different but our interests, personalities are IDENTICAL. I always thought that was creepy and wonderful at the same time. In any case, she told me I NEEDED to watch Grey's Anatomy. "YOU WILL LOVE SANDRA OH! YOU WILL LOVE THE SHOW." I decided to watch it...why not? How bad could it be? She liked it. We have identical tastes! Ergo...I would like it also. I netflixed it. Watched it. Loved it. Ran to Barnes and Noble. Bought Season 2. Watched it in a few days. Became obsessed. Now watching Season 3. Wow...what a show. I absolutely cannot get enough of it. It's fresh and brilliant (yes, brilliant) and the cast...wow...diverse, well-spoken and...can anyone say ALEX KAREV??? Be still my heart!

I was surprised no one noticed the potential of Patrick Dempsey as a hottie. When I was in college, I noticed a picture of him modeling some clothes for a company; I had to cut out the picture. He made my mouth water. Something about the eyes and the hair. Boy, that man has got some amazing hair (I'm jealous!!!).

The first episode ran Thursday night and I was a little disappointed. Here are my two cents on the characters and storylines of Grey's Anatomy:

Meredith and McDreamy: I'm so sick of them. I'm sick of them. Really I am so done with them. It's time for writers to spend a bit more time on the other regulars. Patrick Dempsey is hot and all, but really I am so over their love story already. I don't want them dating anyone else, mind you. I think they belong together in some odd dysfunctional highly unethical and unhealthly way, but gosh...how can this man be in love with her after a quick one night stand? Is she that good in bed? He couldn't stop thinking about her after the first time...he had to have her again and again. What the hell! Dude, you just met her. Is he really even in love with Meredith? Judging from how hurt he looked after discovering Addison had cheated on him with his friend Mark (aka McSteamy), it appears to me as if he needs someone to save him from his hurts, a rebound chick if you will. I have a feeling Mer is headed for big time heartache this season. Just my opinion.

Meredith and McVet: Really McVet is very sweet....too sweet. I smell skeletons in the closet, which would make him a lot more interesting than he is now. I mean...you want to throw your hat or whatever in the race for Meredith's love, but really do you know Meredith at all? What is it about this chick? Is she that exciting? Personally, if I were a guy I'd want to date Cristina. She's smart and I love her sharp wit. Right now McVet is McBORING!!!

Bailey: I also smell skeletons in her intern past...why does she refuse to talk to Izzie, as previews for next week's episode suggest? Did she herself fall in love with a patient during her first year as a surgical intern? Just speculating. I do miss Nazi Bailey, believe it or not, but I'm digging this side of her, too. Nazi Bailey is still there...writers are just showing us there's a big heart beneath the ice.

Richard: Boy, oh, Boy! Dude doesn't want to be near his wife at all. I'm guessing he never really loved her...was with her out of guilt. Does he have any kids? Looks like his wife has given him the boot...guess that means he'll have a love interest in the near future, but who? Addison? She is more of a daughter to him, but they're both in pain, right? Anything could happen! Boy, wouldn't that be awkward. It's obvious Richard feels a lot of pain over cheating on his wife. He can't even look her in the eye. There are a lot of unresolved issues between him and Meredith's mom. Unfortunately, due to her Alzeimer's, it looks like they will never really be a resolution.

Alex: He really got me when he cared for Izzie after Denny died. Out of all her friends, he was the one who knew exactly what to do and say to calm her down and get her off Denny's bed. He may be immature and an ass at times, but you can tell he's got a heart. He holds on to a great deal of pain caused by a difficult childhood and I'm hoping the writers will delve more into his character this season. I'm sick of seeing him as the ass of Seattle Grace. There's a reason he's the way he is. I'm hoping we find out soon! I would love to see him and Izzie together. Their relationship ended so abruptly...one can hope, right???

Izzie: Argh! I wanted to beat the shit out of her at the end of Season 2. Is this chick for real? Falling in love with a patient? Getting angry at him for signing a DNR? Cutting his wires, essentially killing him? What the fuck? Izzie, are you insane!? 4 years of med school, baby! You flushed 4 years of med school down the toilet. I still don't understand the Denny/Izzie relationship. How long was he in the hospital for her to fall in love with him? Wow...girl went seriously psycho and it took her all of episode one on Thursday to get her ass and face off the probably very dirty and unsanitary bathroom floor (these people are doctors?). I would like her to get her act together, go back to being an intern and into Alex's arms...sorry, I have a thing for Alex and Izzie. They belong together!!! Oh...one more thing...the bleached blonde bimbo look's gotta go. I liked her hair a bit more last season.

Cristina and Burke: If the writers break them up, I will seriously go to ABC headquarters in NYC or LA or whereever and go on a hunger strike 'til they get back together. These two belong together! I'm sure their relationship will not be a bed of roses, but I'm hoping writers show their hard times without getting one to break up with the other. Also, no cheating...if one of them fucks over the other, then someone will have to pay. Don't mess with this couple!!!
Having said that, what the fuck was with Cristina freezing up on Burke when he needed her the most? I wanted to see her cry for him and get on her knees...we're seeing a bit more of that now, but I'm hoping she gives him the love he truly deserves. Hopefully, she'll be able to tell him she loves him when he's actually awake!

George and Callie: Ok...1) Callie is very sweet and I love her personality and 2) George deserves a great girl who will love and treasure him always. That being said...I don't like the woman who actually plays Callie...sorry, but she looks like she could beat the crap out of George. It's not even the size...it's more like the goth look she's sporting...the hair..I just want to cute it off. Maybe if she had a cute little bob or something. Right now, she just looks dirty. Maybe it was that episode from Season 2 when she went to pee and didn't wash her hands (she said she did, but whatever). I guess I want George to have a girl who loves him but also one who is somewhat dangerous and sexy, which leads me to....

George and Addison: Maybe I'm crazy, but I think this pairing would be genius. I know they never interact and I know people are thinking and wanting her to have hot casual sex with Alex, but I think Addison and George together would be incredible. Call me crazy, but I think George is the only male cast member who can actually put her in her place. Despite appearances, Addison is very insecure and she needs someone honest to treasure her. George will tell her off in his own way and will also treasure her when she needs it. Imagine it...really...just picture it. I think it would work.

Addison: I don't want her hooking up with Alex or Derek. I hope she gets over him and finds someone else (George) to obsess about.

McSteamy: I hope he doesn't fall in love with Meredith...no more! I'd love to see him with...gosh, maybe even Izzie for a few episodes but, of course, she'd have to dump him for Alex.
I think we're in for an awesome Season 3. I see McSteamy creating a lot of drama. I'd like to see McDreamy get a little jealous over Addison. He says he doesn't love her, but it wouldn't hurt to have him doubt his 2nd choice Meredith. Wouldn't that be fun???

Gosh, I am obsessed with this show. I cannot get enough and I'm glad fellow romance bloggers are as obsessed as moi! Can't wait 'til Thursday.

Fantastic...

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

I'm Back, Beeyatch!

Jury duty was an ordeal, yet somehow....it also felt like a much needed vacation. It lasted more than 2 weeks and I was able during that time to sleep in 'til 8AM (I normally wake up at 5AM to get ready for work...I start at 7). I loved not having a real 9-5 (or 7-4) schedule...loved the uncertainty of it all...not knowing what times I'd have to go in the next day and I LOVED LOVED LOVED those days when the judge would just say YOU CAN COME IN TOMORROW AT 1. Wow...it felt like college all over again, when your classes are all over the place, scheduled 3 hours apart and you can actually enjoy your days, rest, sleep and just BE!!! It was tough not having a computer in front of me. Yes, I'm still shopping for one. Why is it taking so long? I haven't had a chance to go to any stores...simple as that. Got the money...time? Well, I've been lazy and busy at the same time. I'm giving myself 2 more weeks. I'll have a computer in 2 weeks...mark my words!

I've missed blogging...missed my fellow blogging friends and the comments just made me smile, knowing that thanks to my love of "trashy" romance novels (I don't think they're trashy...well, some are...you get the idea) I've made so many friends. I wish I could meet you all. Gosh, anyone coming to SF? At all???

I haven't been reading many romances lately. I started ROSE AT MIDNIGHT by Anne Stuart a while ago and am still on page 84. I decided to read a few historical non-fictions I've had sitting next to my couch. One of them is SEX WITH THE QUEEN, a book which unfortunately sounds sexy but isn't. Good thing I bought it on OVERSTOCK. What a disappointment! The book is about...you guessed it...queens through the centuries and their paramours...Marie Antoinette and her beloved Axel Fersen...Catherine the Great and her many many many lovers. The book was good, but...gosh, I felt like the author couldn't keep her thoughts organized and it was just a big mess. Also, the author seemed to rely on a lot of rumors and speculation. I know quite a great deal about royal history...I'm obsessed with monarchies, royalty, women's history, et al. I was thoroughly disappointed in this book, the sequel to the excellent SEX WITH KINGS.

During this time, I've also rediscovered my love for Anime. My family moved to Italy when I was 12. We stayed there 'til I was 17 and then we moved back to California. The move was not work related. My parents simply decided they wanted to raise their children in their native country. I loved certain aspects of living there, but I felt very lonely and I learned to keep to myself and survive on my own, without having a dozen friends around me at all times. Anime kept me going...all of them series anime dubbed in Italian. Now...really THERE IS NO COMPARISON between US Cartoons and Japanese ones...sorry, I know it's good to be patriotic and all, but seriously Japanese cartoons are the bomb. I was in love with the stories, the characters, the perfection of colors. I bought a few old anime dubbed in Italian (the very ones I watched as a teen) recently and now I am obsessed with getting all the ones that helped me get through my years in Italy. The following are my recent purchases:

CANDY CANDY
MILA E SHIRO, DUE CUORI NELLA PALLAVOLO (ATTACKER YOU in Japanese)
(sorry, but most of this is in Italian...)

Now I want to get the following (again in Italian):
Milly, Un Giorno Dopo L'Altro (other names in Japan LADY LADY and Hello! Lady Lynn!)
E' Quasi Magia Johnny (Kimagure Orange Road in Japan)
Prendi Il Mondo e Vai (Touch in Japan)

I understand I could probably get the last three in Japanese with English subtitles, but I want them in Italian. It's how I remember seeing them and...I guess I've gotten extremely nostalgic lately...I know eventually I'll find them...after all, I never thought I'd own CANDY CANDY and MILA E SHIRO, which are incredible anime, by the way. Anyone heard of them? What I love the most about Japanese anime and manga is how realistic they are...they don't spare anyone the experiences of death or broken hearts. They're not watched or read exclusively by children, but by all. They're glimpses into everyday life, so beautiful, warming and even tragic.

I'm glad to be back to the world of blogging. I've missed it a lot. Missed you all and can't wait to get back into the swing of things. Oh, court was boring...very boring! MISTRIAL! Nice! Criminal case! Not too pretty, either! I need some good romance to cheer me up, y'all!!! I'm soooo happy to be back.

On another note, I'm taking the California Bar Exam next year. I hate my job! I need to actually do something I went through years of schooling for (whether I like it or not). Wish me luck! I think this country needs another lawyer to clean things up...a lawyer with integrity, ethics and...a love for "trashy" romances.

BTW: Anyone catch Grey's Anatomy? Alex and Izzie need to get back together and live happily ever after NOW!!!

Alive and Well...

Just on jury duty...oh, and did I mention I'm still computer shopping??? Don't ask...see ya in a week or so.

TBR Pile Meet New Books...New Books Meet TBR Pile

Plot - Heroine's parents arrange her marriage. Girl is not exactly pleased; she yearns for adventure and visits a local jail every chance she gets to see a pirate who gets her blood boiling like no man ever could. The hero can't believe this woman's visiting him so much. He's definitely intrigued. He knows she might be the only way to escape from jail, so he tricks her into releasing him and then kidnaps her, takes her hostage aboard his ship. Of course, they fall in love, but then when she is finally rescued she must decide if her heart belongs to this pirate. I paraphrased the book's backblurb. I've never read it, but Kristie was raving about this book the other day. I leapt for joy when I saw it at my favorite UBS. I'm eager to read it. Mrsgiggles also gives it a glowing review and we all know how difficult to get those are.

Lilah Chadwick thinks she's the apple of her father's eye - until he announces his plans to marry. Hoping to counter his decision, she rushes to London.

Adam Harleston, the ninth Earl of Drakesley, is a man possessed. His young cousin has been seduced by an older gentleman, and he's determined to save her honor before it's too late.

But wedding bells are about to ring for Lilah's father and Drake's cousin. Joining forces, Lilah and Drake vow to stop their loved ones from making a drastic mistake - only to discover that falling in love is never a mistake...

I love reading romances in which the lead characters hate each others' guts. I'm hoping this will be one of them. Hopefully, they won't have sex too soon...cough...IN THE BED OF THE DUKE...cough...the story strikes me as being one of the slapstick comedy sort.

When a promised inheritance turns out to be a fraud, shy spinster Charlotte Wilmont makes an impetuous wish that despite her lack of charm and fortune, she could capture the heart of the one man whom she's forever adored—Sebastian, Viscount Trent.
Be careful what you wish for...
With that utterance, Charlotte awakens shocked to find herself entwined with her beloved Sebastian. But the respectable man she knew is now a most rakish devil and she is...well, by some inexplicable magic, London's most infamous mistress.
Even passion cames at a price...

Being the scandalous Lottie Townsend affords Charlotte unimaginable freedom—passionate nights with Sebastian, endless days of shopping, and adoring fans. But all too soon, Charlotte finds that being one man's mistress isn't the same as being his wife. Yet if she returns to her old, respectable life, can Charlotte trust there will be enough magic left to recapture Sebastian's heart...and reawaken his rakish desires? Excerpt

Ok...I'm not going to lie...when I first read this I had no clue what to think...Ok...I just lied. I actually thought we were going to revisit the DALLAS Bobby shower scene. Since I haven't read the book yet, I have no clue what will await me. I told myself I was going to wait for the review on this one, but I didn't. I've enjoyed a majority of Boyle's works in the past. I can only hope that it's not a stinker like THIS RAKE OF MINE!

Marry? Never! It would end Louisa North's work with her ladies reform group—and truth be told, she likes her independence very much, despite her royal father's protests. So when Simon Tremaine, the dashing Duke of Foxmoor whom she'd once loved—and had exiled from England-returns bent on marrying her, she's skeptical. Does he truly care for her, or does he simply want revenge? It's difficult for Louisa to resist Simon's dangerous charms, because the fire between them still burns as hot as ever. But when his ulterior motive for marriage is exposed, along with the deeply buried secrets of his past, Louisa vows to make him pay…and the price will be his heart. Excerpt

I've been waiting for this book for more than a year....I can't wait to read it. Unfortunately, I'll have to read the first book in this series which I heard was so-so! Gosh, Simon put Louisa through hell when we last met them. I cannot wait to see her do the same. Sybil...did you read this one yet???

Luke MacKenzie had always longed for Carla McQueen. But she was too young, too innocent...and he'd sent her away from the Rocking M Ranch, telling her to forget him.

But now Carla was back: a woman grown, with a woman's wants...a woman's needs. And Luke couldn't help but give in to the power - and the passion - of a love that could never be.

Ever since Sybil suggested Elizabeth Lowell's ONLY series, I was a goner. I absolutely loved it (I have a couple of more to read though...) and jumped at the chance at reading this one (not connected). Maybe it's the fact that there's history between the lead characters...

Shane Graham had always looked out for his neighbor, Dorie, but lately he'd had his own share of problems, including an arranged marriage. But then little Miss Dorie—shotgun in hand—kidnapped him from his own wedding ceremony and he found he could no longer ignore her change from scrappy girl to blossoming beauty….
The resourceful yet naive Dorie McCabe knew the struggling rancher would come to the same realization—they were meant for each other! But time was not on her side, so who could blame her for giving him a gentle nudge in the right direction? Excerpt

The thought of a woman holding a groom at gunpoint and forcing him to leave his own wedding amuses me tremendously. I hardly ever read Harlequin Historicals and am very excited to read this one...again this reeks of slapstick comedy, which I am in much need of lately.

To her spiteful aunt, Kathryn Marchant is little more than a servant: she does not deserve a place in polite society. That's about to change, when Kathryn accidentally falls into the arms of the most notorious rake of them all.
Lord Ravensmede draws the line at seducing virgins. Yet once he has tasted the lips of the delectable Miss Marchant, he wants her! He has the distinct impression that she's in need of a protector, but, no matter how much he strives to be honorable, her temptation may prove just too sweet to resist! Excerpt

Ok...ok..this is the second MISTRESS book of my list (Mailyn, I know you're shaking your head that I would dare buy not one BUT two of these, but what can I say? I needed a cheesy novel and this one looks pretty darn cheesy!!!). The fact that Kathryn falls "accidentally" into the arms of a rake isn't really what got me...actually that would normally keep me away...I like stories which include men who try to be honorable. It never works...always backfires and I love reading every bit of it. This is another Harlequin historical.

HAVE YOU EVER....

Have you ever had a crush on someone whose sexual orientation you questioned?

I'm going through that right now...a co-worker...good-looking...good body...tight jeans...tight shirt...tight ass...amazing hands...oh, dear...he's given me a few massages. I'm starting to think I just like his hands on me..on my shoulders especially, massaging the knots (and there are A LOT! Oh, did I mention he gives the most incredible massages...at work...while no one's looking and sometimes when they are...oh, dear...so unprofessional, I know) away. What do I do? How do I find out? It's been driving me nuts...argh!

NO MAN'S BRIDE

AAR just reviewed Galen's NO MAN'S BRIDE and....HOLY SHITE! This book sounds terrible! I know I shouldn't judge 'til I read it (and I was planning on reading it, mind you) but how wrong can a review be? Don't get me wrong...I don't always agree with AAR reviews, but an F??? The reviewer sounds as pissed off as I was after reading Sylvia Day's ASK FOR IT. I don't know about you, but I think I might trust this review and steer clear of the book.

Read the review and weep...I didn't know whether to laugh or send Ms. Galen condolence cards.

ASK FOR IT

I'm not exactly sure what Sylvia Day is telling me to ask for, but after reading her new book I can only assume the answer to be MY MONEY BACK. Gosh, what an experience reading this book was. The cover's backblurb and author's site offered what I thought would be exactly the story I've been itching to read for a while: heroine dumps hero only days before they are to wed; hero is beyond upset and vows to make her pay one day. They finally meet again and sparks fly. However, hero is having none of it...he wants her to want him and will try everything to make sure she falls for him (I know you're all shaking your heads right now).

I know the story sounds like thousands of others you've read before. If this is the case, please send me a note with a list of said books because I can never seem to find any in bookstores and personally the story of the jilted hero who never quite stops loving the heroine is one of my favorites. I thought I would be getting one of the best love stories around. I was sadly mistaken...and pissed beyond belief because I used a Borders gift card to get the book. $14.00...I spent $14 on it!!! Argh!

What's bad about the story? Where do I start? How about everything. All About Romance's review hit it on the dot: the lead characters are two of the most immature brats ever written (ok...maybe not ever written, but they're morons...you get the idea). Sex seems to be all they engage in when they're not mucking everything up with idiotic and silly banter.

The hero is obsessed with the heroine. Normally, I wouldn't mind that sort of thing in a romance; however, it really got on my nerves here. The obsession and stalking he engaged in were too much...dude needed to get a life PRONTO! I felt sorry for him! The heroine didn't seem worth his effort. What was so special about her? Nothing really. I never really got a chance to truly know the characters. I didn't really want to. They bored me to tears and I still cannot figure out why I even bothered finishing the book.

Here's the story in a nutshell: hero and heroine are in love, ready to get married. Heroine has some daddy issues (which Day never really clears up...or maybe she did...honestly, I skimmed a lot of the book, so many an explanation was offered...whatever...who cares!). She sees hero half naked with some lady. Of course, she thinks he's cheating on her, so she immediately runs off with a colleague of her brothers and marries him. Hero is heartbroken and runs far far away. Now the story sounds pretty good, right. I should have known it would only frustrate me because of the fact that the heroine didn't even bother to ask for an explanation from the hero. She just left and married some other man. What the fa? Of course, the guy dies 4 years later and she's a widow. She's like totally available now. Enter hero....boy, he's been waiting for this moment for like EVER and he's ready for revenge...cut to thirty sex scenes later, some lame mystery, a couple of people getting killed, stabbings, ransacked bedrooms, kids born, sex, misunderstandings, sex, marriage, sex, misunderstandings, sex, TSTL heroine antics, misunderstandings, sex, jealousy, misunderstanding, sex, mystery solved, the end.

I don't recommend this book to anyone. I didn't enjoy it. The mere fact that I skimmed a lot of it towards the end and that it took me more than a week should be enough to convince you that this book is one to skip.

If you are like me and you bought it for $14, then read it...you might like it. We all have different tastes, after all. I was disappointed. I feel cheated....kinda like the time I thought I was going to eat lasagna for dinner and then had to settle for spaghetti. Not a good feeling at all.

20 Things that Irritate Me (Only 20?)

I was tagged by Holly.

1. The phrase AND THEN THERE WERE (fill in with a number). It pisses me off to no end. AND THEN THERE WERE 4, AND THEN THERE WERE 3, AND THEN I threw something at my tv set. Yeah, cause you usually hear this line on tv, typically on a lame reality show (I love lame reality shows), like American Idol, or Project Runaway (my new addiction) or one of the Real World/Road Rules Challenges (why can I not break away from MTV shows?).

2. Tardiness. It's inexcusable and disrespectful. I cannot stand people who are late...once is ok...I'll make an exception, but all the time. Every day? Set your frickin' alarm an hour early! I used to have a friend who'd be late for everything. I'd pick her up to go out to party and she'd still have to take a shower. Not only that, but you'd think a person who's late would just comb her hair real quick or something...NOOOOOOOOOO...she had to straighten her extremely curly hair! Nice! I love being 2 hours late to parties, church or whatever.

3. People who ask HOW ARE YOU? and then walk away before you even answer. Now, ok...I know HOW ARE YOU has become akin to HELLO in today's world, but it's a question, not a greeting and I will answer it DAMMIT! People through the years have learned not to ask me that because, believe you me, I will tell them exactly how I'm doing...in detail.

4. Friends who become MIA as soon as they get a boyfriend. I've had several friends through the years who have literally dropped off the face of the earth, as soon as they met the man they thought was THE ONE. Months would go by without even a hint of their existence. I was very close to filing a missing person's ad on several occasions. Next thing I know, they call me. I start to wonder why, then I find out. The boyfriend is either a) now an ex and they need someone to help them deal with the loss or b) the boyfriend is out with his buddies and "friend" needs someone to hang out with. I've dropped friends through the years because of this. I've never been like this...to be honest, I've always tried to have a pretty good balance between spending time with friends and boyfriends. My friend Debbie is currently one of those friends. I'll call her and she won't call me for weeks. When I finally get in touch with her (miracle), she is deaf to my whines about life, but then suddenly finds her hearing when the subject comes to her boyfriend and her relationship! I'm old enough not to have to deal with this shit anymore.

5. People who start a story with serious JUICE potential and then end it with I JUST CAN'T TELL YOU THE REST...YOU WOULD GET TOO UPSET or even I KNOW SOMETHING SO JUICY, YOU'LL JUST DIE, BUT I CAN'T TELL YOU. What the fuck, bitch!?!? Why would you even start talking about it, if you have no intention whatsoever of telling me anything? If it's a secret, you should have kept your trap shut from the start 'cause you've already violated that person's confidence by opening your mouth, so you might as well just finish it! Argh!

6. I don't appreciate being talked down to. I'm not an idiot! Condescending people need to stay away from me!

7. Sexist pigs!

8. TSTL heroines and books that insult my intelligence such as those in which high pleasure is achieved during the heroine's first time. There's no pain AT ALL. Immediate satisfaction for all and the act itself (without foreplay) is about an hour long. Sure...I believe it! Riiiiight!

9. Those who believe there should be NO separation between church and state. There should be! End point!

10. Close-minded individuals.

11. Disguised bigotry (many instances of that in recent months here in our own country...sad!).

12. People who hate Hillary Clinton for no reason. Just frickin' admit it's cause you don't want a strong woman in the White House and are terrified she'll be there in 2008!

13. People who believe global warming is a liberal lie. What else could it be?

14. Jessica Simpson and any other celebrity who should be using their money to help people, rather than party and shop all day and night (I especially dislike Jessica Simpson).

15. 3% raises at work...we all got one in March. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Thanks for the extra bus fare money, jerks!

16. Fox's cancellation of REUNION. I'll never know how the mystery ends. FUCKERS!

17. GIRLS GONE WILD.

18. The fact that Lindsay Lohan's mom has done zilch to help her daughter get her act together. Why would she? She's too busy partying it up and living the high life! Gucci, anyone?

19. People who don't vote and then complain when the shit hits the fan! You had your chance scumbag!

20. The cop out apology I'M SORRY YOU FEEL THAT WAY which isn't even an apology, but more like a FUCK YOU.

I have many more...but the post would be too long.

Err...I'VE READ THIS, RIGHT?

Warning: The following excerpt contains a bit of what was going through my head when I was reading it...enjoy!

NO WOMAN CAN RESIST HIM...EXCEPT ONE (oh, please....gag me)

Lord Martin Langdon (What? No clever nickname?) takes pride in his scandalous reputation as a scoundrel (never heard that one before), and he considers the art of seduction a most rewarding pastime (like all other zillion rakes I've read about). So when this dashing rakehell learns of a particularly beautiful woman who is "impossible to flirt with," (Oh, God...please, not another bluestocking TSTL heroine) he is determined to prove that not even the prim and proper Evelyn Wheaton can resist his charms (I smell a bet...gag me some more). Evelyn knows all about the reckless rogue's shocking reputation (duh!) and she wants nothing to do with him (yeah, right...until she has marathon sex with him her very first time....all pleasure and no pain AT ALL, of course...because he's suuuuuuuch a good lover). She may be looking for a husband, but Martin is certainly not a candidate (just good enough for some free nooky). The smoldering looks he sends her way, however, are a different matter entirely. She suspects there is great passion to be had if she'd throw caution to the wind and surrender to this scoundrel... but dare she risk her heart? (AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH)

Is it my imagination or have I seen this cover before? As a matter of fact...I feel like I've also read the book. What the hell is up with romances these days? Are authors really that hard up for ideas? I've enjoyed plenty of MacLean books over the last few years; her books aren't masterpieces (but then again, what is these days?), but they show great potential and I'm a sucker for authors (and anything else) with potential, but this...gosh, give me a fuckin' break. I've read this story. I know I have. I can't remember when or where I read it, but I read it. The synopsis sounds so much like every other book I've have the pleasure (or displeasure) of reading over the last year or two, that I'm about ready to yak my brains out.

Does this mean I will skip the book? Believe it or not (after this long rant) I can't. It's the last book of a series!!! How the hell can I skip it? I'm tempted, but I won't...I just...can't. I need strength...strength to break away from tired books and cut and paste covers. Is there something I can take for this? Hypnosis? A joint that makes you forget you were even reading a series? Anything? Hello? Help? Anyone there?

Dear Authors - I've read stories about morons who argue with themselves over whether to have sex with rakes and then proceed to "fuck" said rakes' brains out night after night after night.

I've read them and have enjoyed them immensely. However, how many more rake/innocent fair maiden combo stories must I read before I become fully lobotomized? Honestly, I'm starting to believe I'm halfway there thanks to the crap I've been reading lately. No offense to Julianne MacLean.

I almost feel bad for even writing this, but I was honestly taken aback by MacLean's book description. I was hoping for originality. Based on what was given me, I cannot say there's much. I may be wrong. I will read the book and report on it and I will apologize profusely to Ms. MacLean if I'm in error, but right now...heck, I'm just a little ticked!

SURRENDER TO A SCOUNDREL is out January 2007. Let's hope MacLean delivers!!!

P.S. I have a thing for red covers...I actually think this one's pretty.

M.I.A

I've been working, working and working, so I apologize for my blog's inactivity. I have a lot of updates coming soon, book reviews (one in particular that pisses me off...it sucked so much), author interviews (well, only one author interview), a tag list to complete (tagged by Holly...woo hoo) and more...

I finally developed my pictures (I'm still living in the dark ages and don't have a digital). Among them is one from a Candace Hern/Julie Anne Long book signing from a few months back...picture to come!

Brighter than the Sun

Has this book always sucked or have my tastes changed? I became very nostalgic recently and had to reread a few of Julia Quinn's older novels. I decided to pick up BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN and thought (emphasis on the THOUGHT) I was in for a wild ride. WRONG! I don't remember hating this book the first time I read it.

The hero was charming but he did zilch for me and the heroine...argh...what a moron! There was no chemistry, no funny tidbits...I just didn't enjoy the book the second time around. I'm not even going to go into it. Just know that the book was constantly being dropped on the floor in favor of house cleaning (yeah....no joke). Was I having an off day? No clue...I think perhaps my tastes have changed (that and the book left a lot to be desired in the sex appeal dept). The book is very cut and paste; nothing scandalous or inventive or really out of the ordinary can be found within its pages.

The book is one of Quinn's earlier works and it shows. Do I recommend it? Yes, if you want something light and fluffy. No, if you want some substance.