Short & Sweet Sundays: Forever Charmed by Rose Pressey

On August 18, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies3 Comments

Sundays are a day of rest. So in honor of this one day of the week when I can legitimately loaf around in my Garfield jammies in front of the DVR, I bring you “Short and Sweet Sundays.” This is a fun way for me to write up a quick and dirty book blog without getting too wordy.

Summary (from the publisher) Halloween Laveau is descended from a long line of witches. Yes, her name is Halloween. The cosmic universe is definitely playing some kind of sick joke on her. She’s the ultimate witch cliché, complete with a black cat and spooky house. Thank heavens she’s missing the warts and flying broom.

When Halloween inherits her great-aunt’s manor, she decides to put the house to good use as a bed-and-breakfast. Her first guest is the sinfully good-looking Nicolas Marco, but he’s not here for the continental breakfast. Halloween discovers a ratty old book in the attic. It’s written in an unfamiliar language, and unknown to her, the tome is cursed.

Halloween soon learns there’s a link between the book and her newfound talent as a necromancer. But her new skills come with a catch: the reanimated dead aren’t as cupcake-sweet as they were when they were alive. When a rival witch comes after the book, Halloween doesn’t know who to trust–the sexy vampire who says he wants to save the day, or the warlock who says he can destroy the book once and for all.

Halloween had better learn fast. Because when the dead start rising, only a powerful witch can put them back under

What I liked: The premise is the book’s biggest selling point. The author was really on to something when she created a series about a witch named Halloween running a mystical B&B in a charming little town. Sprinkle in a love triangle with a couple of mysterious bad boys and I’m sold.

Favorite character: Sorry to be an asshole, but I have to be honest. All of the characters fell flat for me. I could see that the author was trying to paint Halloween as a lovable, quirky fledgling witch, but it just didn’t work out. I needed more of a backstory about her struggle as an outsider – something that could have resonated with my own plight as a nerdy social outcast back in high school. I’m not saying that she’s unlikeable, she just needed more depth. Plus the witty banter between Halloween and her best friend seemed forced. I got the sense that she didn’t really have a good handle on her characters, resulting in wonky dynamics and stilted dialogue.

The cover: Speaking of shallow, I admit that I bought this book because of the cover. While I was shopping around on my Nook, I immediately honed in on the fearless, fashionable blonde standing before a creepy haunted manor amidst the backdrop of a starry midnight sky. I love a good Halloween story filled with spooky atmosphere and magic! Moral of the story: Don’t judge a book by it’s cover.

Overall assessment: If you like fluffy, uncomplicated paranormal romances, perhaps you’ll enjoy this book. And hey, sometimes it’s nice to read a little fluff every now and then. When my brain needs a break, there’s nothing I’d rather do than veg out in front of one of those paint-by-the-numbers Hallmark movies. But if you’re looking for a witchcraft series with a little more depth and suspense, I recommend picking up a book by Juliet Blackwell or Debbie Viguie.

Waiting on Wednesday: Dark Witch by Nora Roberts

On August 14, 2013August 14, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies7 Comments

“Waiting On Wednesday” is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating. This week I’m waiting on the first installment of Nora Roberts’ paranormal triology: Dark Witch (Oct. 29, 2013). Just in time for Halloween, it’s full of witchcraft, Irish legends and saucy love scenes with a swashbuckling wild tribal horseman! Yes, her books are rather predictable and formulaic, but I’d be lying if I said that her paranormal trilogies aren’t entertaining.

From the publisher: With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find both: a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends. Ireland. County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits. Iona arrives in Ireland with nothing but her Nan’s directions, an unfailingly optimistic attitude, and an innate talent with horses. Not far from the luxurious castle where she is spending a week, she finds her cousins, Branna and Connor O’Dwyer. And since family is family, they invite her into their home and their lives. When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horsemen, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package. Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive…

The Friday Five: Veiled Revenge by Ellen Byerrum

On August 10, 2013August 10, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn CoziesLeave a comment

In honor of my favorite day of the week, I bring you The Friday Five. Every Friday I will ask the same five questions to myself, or any other willing participant! All my fellow book lovers are welcome to join in on the fun.

From the publisher: Washington, D.C., fashion reporter Lacey Smithsonian has always believed clothes can be magical, but she’s never thought they can be cursed. Until now. Lacey’s best friend, Stella, is finally getting married, and at her bachelorette party, fellow bridesmaid—and fortune-teller—Marie Largesse arrives with a stunning Russian shawl. A shawl, Marie warns, that can either bless or curse the wearer. When a party crasher who mocks the shawl is found dead the next day, the other guests fear the curse has been unleashed. But Lacey has her doubts, and she must employ all her Extra-Fashionary Perception to capture a villain who has vowed that nobody at this wedding will live happily ever after…

Why did you choose this book? I recently watched a re-run of Killer Hair on the Lifetime channel and felt the urge to delve into another Lacey Smithsonian adventure. And really, how could I turn away from a mystery revolving around a cursed shawl? Plus Stella’s getting hitched, which means lots and lots of outrageous fashions and melodrama galore!

Where did the author go right? Or if it’s a turkey, what went wrong? Like going to my favorite hamburger joint in a city full of restaurants, I know without a doubt that any book by Ellen Byerrum is a surefire winner. It’s like she studied me and figured out how to blend all of my most favorite elements into a book series: Quirky gal pals, vintage fashions, a headstrong reporter sleuth, and just a dash of romance. As a journalist, I tend to be a little biased toward my fellow newshounds, which must be why I’m rather fond of Lacey. But there are many other reasons why she stands out among the many amateur sleuths on my bookshelves. She’s fiercely devoted to her friends, and she’s got this mysterious connection to her aunt Mimi. Although Mimi is long gone, she still gives comfort to Lacey through the treasure trove of vintage fashions she left behind in her trunk. Wouldn’t it be fun if the author wrote a spinoff about the enigmatic Aunt Mimi? Perhaps she was a fashionable amateur sleuth back in the 1940s!

Did anything bug you about the book? Ugh, yes! Stella’s sanctimonious new-agey mother totally bugged me. I almost threw my book against the wall when she threatened to torch Stella’s pretty princess wedding gown in a “cleansing ritual.” Oh and while I’m at it, I’m also really annoyed that the Lifetime channel didn’t continue on with the series. Go here to read more about my thoughts on the books vs. TV series.

Dear Lifetime Channel, please reinstate the Crimes of Fashion series. I miss these ladies!

Would you read another book by this author? Absolutely! I’ve been reading this series out of order, so I have a lot of catching up to do.

How would you sum up the book in three words? Hilarious, witty, suspenseful.

Sundays in Bed with…Romantic Times Book Reviews (No. 4)

On August 4, 2013August 4, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies6 Comments

Welcome to my Sundays in Bed with, a weekly meme hosted by Midnight Book Girl! This is a fun opportunity to spotlight the book I’m reading on the glorious day of the week.

This morning I’m reading: Romantic Times Book Reviews

Gizzy and I partied pretty hard last night on my birthday, so today we’re spending the day enjoying our presents (he got loads of crinkle paper!) and reading the latest issue of Romantic Times magazine. I love, love, love reading author interviews and reviews of brand-spanking new books. The advertisements of book covers with shirtless Highlander men are an added bonus! The only problem is that I end up adding at least half a dozen new books to my to-read pile. But then again, you can never have too much of a good thing, right?

While I’m at it, check out my birthday loot! Are you sensing a theme here?

Happy Sunday reading everyone! Feel free to post a comment about your current read!

W…W…W… Wednesdays (No. 3)

On July 31, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies10 Comments

Happy hump day everybody! WWW Wednesdays is a bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. To play along, just answer the following three questions:

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you’ll read next?

Currently reading: Veiled Revenge: A Crime of Fashion Mystery by Ellen Byerrum

Whenever summertime rolls around, I pick up a Crime of Fashion mystery because there’s nothing I’d rather read by the pool with a tropical drinky drink than a fun and frothy mystery filled with fashion, friends and sexy detectives! As expected, I’m completely enraptured by the mystery of the cursed Russian shawl. Ellen Byerrum sure knows how to spin a darn good yarn – pun intended!

Just finished reading: Texas Cooking by Lisa Wingate

I love Texas and I love good food…maybe a little too much. Plus the cowgirl boots on the pretty pink cover was screaming my name, so I just couldn’t resist hitting the download button. Yes, the up-tight city girl thrust into a small town is somewhat of a cliché. And yes, the plot is a little on the thin side. But you know what – this fun little feel-good story was just what I needed during a hectic month. Although the book is the literary equivalent of a Hallmark channel movie of the week, the author has some serious writing chops! I loved getting swept away by her whimsical descriptions of small town Texas life. How I wish I could just ditch Austin and move to San Saline and hang out with Mrs. Hawthorne and the peacocks at the B&B!

Next up: Forever Charmed by Rose Pressey

Let’s see here…a haunted B&B, a witch named Halloween, and two paranormal hotties? It’s like the author wrote this book just for me! And just look at the cover! Seriously, how could I go wrong? Hopefully the story will live up to the enticing premise. I’ll be sure to let you know.

What’s on your reading list? Leave a comment and tell me all about it!

Sundays in Bed with…Red Rain by R.L. Stine

On July 21, 2013July 21, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies3 Comments

Welcome to my Sundays in Bed with, a weekly meme hosted by Midnight Book Girl! This is a fun opportunity to spotlight the book I’m reading on the glorious day of the week.

This morning I’m reading: Red Rain by R.L. Stine

I have a soft spot in my heart for the mastermind behind the Fear Street series, which gave me delicious nightmares back in junior high when Nancy Drew Super Chiller mysteries were the only other “scary” titles in the young adult section. So despite the overwhelming number of one-star reviews, I decided to give this one a try. I mean, come on, how could I refuse a new title by my childhood idol?

As for the negative reviewers, I can totally understand their issues with the bland characters, stunted dialogue and horror movie clichés. Yes, the main characters are one-dimensional. And yes, the freaky twin thing has been done to death in movies like The Shining and Village of the Damned. But you know what, R.L.’s trademark cliffhangers at the end of each chapter keep me glued to the pages until the wee hours of the night.

Reading this book is a lot like watching a campy horror flick. Going into it, my expectations for character development are pretty low, but I still have a lot of fun with the thrill ride. Aside from some awkward sex scenes, this is pretty much a young adult book. So if you’re expecting a horror story on par with the likes of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, you’ll most likely be disappointed. This book isn’t scare per se, but it’s definitely entertaining!

Audiobook Pick of the Month: White Oleander by Janet Fitch

On July 13, 2013July 1, 2018 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies3 Comments

Summary (from the publisher) When Astrid’s mother, a beautiful, headstrong poet, murders a former lover and is imprisoned for life, Astrid becomes one of the thousands of foster children in Los Angeles. As she navigates this new reality, Astrid finds strength in her unshakable certainty of her own worth and her unfettered sense of the absurd.

Why I liked it: You know you’ve read a truly great book when you’re struggling with questions long after polishing off the last chapter. My lingering nature vs. nurture questions have to do with Ingrid. Are some people inherently evil?

Next to Hannibal Lector, Ingrid one of the most frightening villains I’ve come across in a long time. She’s cold, manipulative, egotistical and completely devoid of empathy for others. She has no qualms about making Astrid aware of the burdens of motherhood. Boy does that bring back memories.

“What was a weed, anyway. A plant nobody planted? A seed escaped from a traveler’s coat, something that didn’t belong? Was it something that grew better than what should have been there? Wasn’t it just a word, weed, trailing its judgments. Useless, without value. Unwanted.”

And just when I thought this morally-blind character couldn’t get any more despicable – she’d take her narcissism to a whole new level! Just for shits and giggles, she would get her poetic juices flowing by writing a laundry list of horrible ways to torment people, like “give a homeless man fake money and make sure he thanks you profusely.” Or “convince a depressed person to commit suicide.” Seriously?!? Does this sound like a woman who is capable of redemption? I sincerely doubt it.

I won’t give away any spoilers, but I will say that the book leaves a lot of things open for interpretation. Honestly, I wasn’t completely thrilled by the way it left off, but I have a feeling the author was compelled to give her readers what they wanted.

The narrator: I wasn’t so sure about listening to a book narrated by Oprah. No offense to Oprah, I just don’t like celebrity narrators. They tend to speak a mile a minute or overdramatize the voices like a parent reading a bedtime story. But you know what – she did a pretty good job capturing Astrid’s voice. I know she’s a busy lady, but it would have been nice if she took the time to read the unabridged book. I hate that she skipped over some chunks of this fascinating story.

Favorite character: Astrid is – by far – one of the most complex, sympathetic characters I’ve encountered. Unlike her pathological mother, she looks for the good in people and lacks that instantaneous disdain for others that so twisted her mother’s life. I was especially moved by her relationship with her emotionally fragile foster mom, Clare. Despite her own inner turmoil, Astrid wanted nothing more than to coddle Clare in a cocoon of happiness. In a way, she was displaying the kind of unconditional love and support that she should have received from her own mother.

“I wanted the world to be beautiful for her. I wanted things to work out. I always had a great day, no matter what.”

Like listening to the perfect sad song on a bad day, this book has somewhat of a cathartic effect. Anyone who has grown up in a loveless household will identify with Astrid’s struggle. But ultimately this is a story about survival. Let’s face it; a lot of us get the short hand of the stick when it comes to parents. But once we get out from under their thumb, we have the freedom to chart our own destiny. Astrid’s journey – from a naïve young girl, to a hardened foster kid, to a hopeful young artist – is a tribute to the resiliency of the human spirit.

Summed up in three words: Dark, poignant, beautiful.

Nearly Departed in Deadwood by Ann Charles

On July 8, 2013July 8, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn CoziesLeave a comment

I was flipping through my Romantic Times magazine and immediately honed in on a full-page ad displaying the colorful book covers for Anne Charles’ Deadwood mystery series. The purple cowgirl boots, the dilapidated haunted house, the rural South Dakota setting – it all looked pretty awesome to me! Lo and behold, I found it on my Nook for a darned good deal, and now I’m totally hooked in Violet Parker’s rip-roaring real estate adventures!

The mystery revolves around Violet, a single mom who’s struggling to keep her fledgling real estate gig afloat. She’s desperate to make a sale, but her only prospect is a crumbling old house filled with wall-to-wall clown paraphernalia – yikes! And it doesn’t help that her only buyer, Doc, is constantly rejecting the historic homes. Why is he always sniffing around the rooms like a bloodhound? And what’s the deal with his mysterious day job? Of course, Violet’s only priority is to make a sale before her three week deadline is up, but she can’t help but to wonder about the enigmatic hottie. Not that it matters because her best friend is totally infatuated with Doc. Plus she’s dating Wolfgang, a wealthy jeweler who just inherited the creepy clown house, so the last thing she needs is another male distraction. Uh yeah, right!

Things get complicated when Violet discovers that little girls are vanishing from Deadwood. Fearing that her daughter might be the next face on the missing girls posters, Violet sets forth on a mission to find the kidnapper. Good thing she formed an accidental friendship with a gun-toting old codger named Harvey. He may be crusty on the outside, but underneath that grisly exterior, he’s a total softy. He’s kind of like a male version of the ubiquitous “zany grandma” characters that you see in Janet Evanovich books. But despite the cliché, the banter between Harvey and Violet is incredibly funny. Between his inappropriate quips and her neuroticisms, they make an excellent team!

Speaking of fun secondary characters, Doc sure kept me guessing. Although he’s dating Violet’s best friend, he spends a lot of time protecting her from potential stalkers. And when he’s not at his mysterious job, he’s in the library pouring through books about Deadwood’s historic sites. Clearly he and Violet have some serious fireworks brewing, but there’s too much at stake if they act on their desires.

There’s so many questions that need to be answered – and I’m already starting to miss old Harvey and his potty mouth humor! Even though this book is heavily steeped in romance, the author does a fine job keeping the focus on the mystery. I enjoyed watching Violet and her trusty sidekick confront possible suspects and piece together clues in creepy old houses. Plus there’s a scene toward the very end that gave me the willies. Don’t be fooled by the light-hearted banter and silly antics, this book isn’t for the faint of heart!

I still have so many questions about Violet’s backstory – and what the heck is haunting the woods surrounding Harvey’s house. But, alas, I must knock off a couple more books on my to-read list before downloading another e-book. So many books, so little time!

The Friday Five: A Killer Maize by Paige Shelton

On June 29, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn CoziesLeave a comment

From the publisher: Becca Robbins is selling her farm-made jams and preserves at a county fair where business is not the only thing that’s dead…

The last person Becca expects to run into at the Swayton County Fall Festival is her ex-husband, Scott Triplett, who’s operating a shooting gallery. Honesty was not always Scott’s policy, and their unexpected reunion is further complicated when the festival becomes a crime scene. On Becca’s second day there, Ferris wheel operator Virgil Morrison is found hanging from his rickety ride, dead from a gunshot.

As Becca starts to notice Scott suspiciously sneaking around the fairgrounds, she begins to worry her ex may be involved in the murder. Then there’s the shadow she sees in the creepy corn maze and rumors of a gypsy curse—not to mention Virgil’s mysterious spider tattoo. Now Becca must search through a labyrinth of lies, secrets, and superstition to find a kernel of truth…before the killer starts stalking her.

Why did you choose this book? The hubster bought me this book for Christmas, probably because he knows that I’m a sucker for cozy mysteries with pumpkins on the cover. He knows me well!

Where did the author go right? Or if it’s a turkey, what went wrong? I like cozies that are heavy on the mystery with a light dash of romance. I’m in it for the quaint setting, the quirky characters and the cute little furry sidekicks. And that’s exactly what I got with this atmospheric farmers market mystery. The fall festival setting swept me away to my favorite time of year when the air is crisp and apple pies are plentiful. The author did a fine job spinning a tight web of plot threads and red herrings. As I pieced together the clues and hit a few dead ends, I felt like I was navigating my way through an elaborate corn maze. And speaking of those creepy, claustrophobic corn contraptions, there is indeed a corn maze scene that will give even the most jaded mystery fans the shivers! Oh and there’s a dash of “gypsy magic” thrown in to the mix, adding to the delicious Halloweenie atmosphere.

Did anything bug you about the book? My only minor complaint is that there are a bunch of characters to keep up with. If you aren’t paying close attention, you could easily get lost in the maze of possible suspects.

Would you read another book by this author? Most definitely! I look forward to stumbling upon another dead body at Becca’s small town farmer’s market in South Carolina. Mmmm…I sure would like some of her famous pumpkin preserves right about now.

How would you sum up the book in three words? Spooky, puzzling, delicious.

A Q&A with Jennifer Brown-Thomas, Author of Blissful Lies

On June 22, 2013June 22, 2013 By Bubble Bubble Books and TroubleIn Cozies2 Comments

If you’re in need of a Gossip Girl fix, Blissful Lies just might do the trick. Look beyond the sprawling mansions, the glitzy couture gowns and the strappy Jimmy Choos and you’ll find a tangled web of lies, deceit, lust and betrayal. And it all hits the fan when five close friends stumble upon some dirty little secrets. The torrid affairs, the backstabbing, the jealous glares – it all brings back fine memories of Blair and Selena’s incessant fights over Lonely Boy.

I caught up with the author Jennifer Brown-Thomas for some juicy details about her debut novel. Read on for more about the Blissful Lies movie, her fashion line, and what’s up next!

What made you decide to become an author?

Well, I wasn’t really planning this. My career plan was to graduate from TCU and continue on to law school. I’ve been writing for most of my life, and now it’s just blossomed into this amazing career. I’m so thankful.

How did you come up with the idea for Blissful Lies?

Blissful Lies is such a fun storyline. I loved coming up with the characters because they are all different, but the same. They’ve struggled through some enormous challenges that no one around them knows about. To the outside, they’re privileged and almost elitist, but they’ve faced struggles and they’re trying to live their lives as normal as possible anyway. I just sat down one afternoon and started working on the screenplay, from there the story was born. I love it.

What draws you to the world of the rich and powerful?

It’s a world that’s interesting. It seems as though the extremely wealthy tend to adhere to a different set of rules and regulations, so I know I enjoy reading these types of stories—I hope everyone else does too!

Of all the characters in the book, which one would you like to spend an afternoon with? Why?

Addison Hamilton. She’s amazing. She’s accomplished and on-point about everything she does. And finally, this woman who has sacrificed so much for her career and family is indulging in something for herself for once. She’s my favorite character, but they’re all unique and fun in their own ways.

What do you hope your readers will get out of this book?

A small break from reality. I know how hard life can be and how much work it takes to get from day to day, so I hope my readers will get the chance to enjoy the story and take a few minutes for themselves.

What’s next for you?

So much! We’re so excited to be launching the first installment of a trilogy series in the fall. Vindictive Grounds is such an amazing story. I can’t wait to share it with all of you. We’re launching a clothing line called Kinsley Kouture in the fall and just established a non-profit organization called Kinsley’s Kure. It’s been a huge year so far! Stay tuned.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you all for taking the time to chat with me. I love having the opportunity to reach out to readers. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support.

More about the author: At just 25 years old, Jennifer Brown-Thomas is a celebrated book author and movie director. Her first novel, Blissful Lies, combines both of her passions. At the 2012 Cannes Film Festival, she presented Blissful Lies (the movie) starring Emmy award winning actress, Leann Hunley. YTINIFNI Pictures is working to bring the film to DVD and on-demand television this spring. Jennifer is a married, Texas Christian University graduate and mother of one. Her newest venture, LBT Enterprises, is set to launch a fragrance, a children’s clothing line and more. Watch for more novels from Jennifer – the next on its way is Vindictive Grounds. In February, Jennifer will begin directing the film version of this novel. She says, “It definitely has more of the explicit sexual contact comparable to Fifty Shades of Grey.” Find more about Jennifer on her website, blog, twitter,Facebook and Goodreads.