All Acts of Love and Pleasure Are Her Rituals

Title: All Acts of Love and Pleasure Are Her Rituals
Author: Rachel Adair
Reading level: ADULT
Paperback: 544 pages
ISBN #: 9781432744748
Received From: Author
Publisher: Outskirts Press Inc.
Group Genre: Paranormal/Romance
Cover: A
Overall: C

"Lady Caroline Hathaway is part of a lineage that has been called on for centuries for herbal wisdom and midwifery. She brings healing to the people of her Old English village with herbal remedies and a power that comes from a much more mysterious force than mere plant-lore. But this power brings her under the scrutiny of the Queen's monks, and hundreds of years will pass before healers of her ilk are able to openly practice their art again."

After finishing this book I had to sit down and truly contemplate my thoughts pertaining to this novel. The book itself is a lot to process so I wanted to really get my review right!

First I'll say I loved the cover. It completely fits the book with the Spanish rose and the silhouette woman keeping a secret! Now I enjoyed the story aspect of the book itself which is summarized in the above quotations. However; I was quite a bit overwhelmed by the sexual promiscuity of the lead characters. And I know the author herself warns the reader to "Open your mind and enjoy" (and I am by no means opposed to certain intimate writings ) but there was a bit too much erotic affairs for me to enjoy the story itself. I love romance but this one went a little beyond for me it is a very adult novel! I really wished the story pertaining to Caroline's powers, lineage and scrutiny were what I was able to focus on because it is a beautiful story in itself. I felt this is when she was a relate-able character and this is why I wanted to continue reading to find out her fate! The end of the novel focused more on these points and really captured me to continue in suspense.

This is an adult novel by all means. It is erotic, sensual, and you will blush quite a bit I must say. But I enjoyed the story behind the crazy rampant passion and that's what endeared me to the book. I will say this book is not for everyone and most people will not make it past the first intimate scene. But if you can see through the sex there is a story there to be told!


LOL=Lots Of Love

O'Shaughnessey: The Fairy Circle

Title: O'Shaughnessey: The Fairy Circle

Author: Jeremy McGuire

Reading level: YA

Hardback: 306 pages

ISBN #: 9781432745370

Received From: Author

Publisher: Outskirts Press Inc.

Group Genre: Fantasy/Fairytale

Cover: A+

Overall: A-

"The Five-senses-world is a small island in a vast ocean of all we do not knowand cannot see; in that ocean, there may be faeries.This second story about theintrepid leprechaun, O’Shaughnessey, takes up where the first left off, that is, with Bobby Mahoney grown and with children of his own. Having lost the ability to see leprechauns, as it happens to the best of us as we grow up,he takes a trip to Ireland with his daughter, to study folklore and get back something that he knows he’s lost if only he could put his finger on what that was. Twelve year old Margaret McNeil Mahoney will have none of it. She is, after all “the brightest pupil at the La Madeliene Academy for (Exceptional) young Ladies and has no room in her life for such silliness as leprechauns and faeries.O’Shaughnessey has persuaded a reclusive Shenache (storyteller) named Moira McCarthy to take the visitors in, hoping that Bobby may eventually be able to see him again. Moira McCarthy is “old-school,” as the jarvy who drives the pair to the hilltop farm describes her. “You won’t find a drop of petrol on her farm… says it stinks of death and nothing that comes from that far in the bowels of the earth can be good for the Gentry. The Gentry, that’s what we used to call the faeries, and Moira McCarthy has kept with it.”Moira McCarthy is, in addition to being a Shenache, a guardian of the Invisible World. Many there are who want to have commerce with the faeries and it is she who either allows it or sends them on their way depending on what their motivesare. She is suspicious of the visitors…until, that is, she is introduced to Margaret. She recognizes in the young girl a kindred spirit with a latent Sight that is greater even than her father’s, for once having given up the Second Sight, it never comes back entirely. But Margaret, the “little skeptic” Margaret, she has possibilities."

I really enjoyed O'Shaughnessey as a light, whimsical read. The author truly has a knack for storytelling (I think he himself is a Shenache) and really paints the picture of a modern fairytale. Set in rural Ireland far away from the TV, Radio, and distracting Video Games, our heroine Margaret has no choice but to listen to the stories and take in her surroundings. And these stories are what breathe life into the fairytale (or is it just the faerie world).

This book has all the components of what make a story great and I was intrigued almost immediately by the beautiful cover. Their is the paranormal element of faeries, leprechauns, nymphs and much more which in itself is exciting! But also there is the thought of just believing in something makes it real and I really like that! Also for those of you still not convinced there is an amazing twist to the story at the end (that brings the novel full circle) which I was surprised and delighted in!

I think this is a perfect book for just about everyone adults and kids alike. And it is so perfectly timed as St. Patrticks Day and all things Irish are right around the corner! Hey you might even see your very own leprechaun if....you believe!

LOL=Lots Of Love

Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One

Title: Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy
Author: Sharon Lathan
Reading level: Adult
Paperback: 309 pages
ISBN #: 9781402215230
Received From: Won in a contest @ Enchanted by Josephine
Publisher: Sourcebooks Inc.
Group Genre: Fiction/Romance
Cover: B
Overall: A

"It's Darcy and Elizabeth's wedding day, and the journey is just beginning asJane Austen's beloved Pride and Prejudice characters embark on the greatestadventure of all: marriage and a life together filled with surprising passion,tender self-discovery, and the simple joys of every day.As their love storyunfolds in this most romantic of Jane Austen sequels, Darcy and Elizabeth revealto each other how their relationship blossomed. From misunderstanding to perfect understanding and harmony, theirs is a marriage filled with romance, sensuality,and the beauty of a deep, abiding love."

First and foremost I must let all know this series is for mature minds!

That being said I loved every minute of it. I know there have been numerous sequels for Pride And Prejudice over the years but these captured how I envisioned Lizzy and Williams future. Lathan not only researched the original but she also studied her history of England at this time. I truly enjoyed the scenery that portrays Georgian England that was thoughtfully crafted through careful research. Also I was fascinated as the author wove the 2005 movie with the original novel to create the picture of the Darcy's future. (And I too adored the 2005 movie Keira Knightley was amazing!!!)

But what strikes a cord most with me is the love the couple shares throughout the book. I actually blushed at some of the intimate scenes! I felt like I was in the room sharing their experiences (at times it was a little X rated but you know what I can't really complain!). The characters are the same ones from before only a little more grown up now with a little more knowledge. You will share their triumphs and feel their heartbreak at times. I truly think the characters are so strongly impressioned from the original that this alone draws me further into the book.

In the end I loved this novel! It was exactly what I've been looking for in my month of LOVE. Although flushed scarlet at times by the characters scandalous intimacies I have to say I was enthralled completely. However; this is not a book to speed read all in one sitting. So if your interested sit back, relax, and enjoy everlasting love leisurely as it is a little overwhelming at times!

LOL=Lots Of Love

Teaser Tuesdays

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. This week I'm reading a sequel to the classic I had teased about last week. The novel is called Loving Mr. Darcy: Journeys Beyond Pemberly and is part of the Darcy Trilogy which recounts what happens after Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged. So here's my teaser:

"Darcy was stunned speechless. Lizzy was equally as surprised but collected her wits before her husband, rounding the desk to clasp Marguerites hand."

~pg 265 Loving Mr. Darcy by Sharon Lathan

This book is soooo endearing. I've always wondered what became of my favourite Pride And Prejudice couple and now I feel upon reading these books to be sharing they're happiest times in life. So far I breezed through the first book Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy (not pausing to put it down) and have equally enjoyed this novel. Look for my reviews soon and let me know your thoughts and teasers of the week!

LOL=Lots Of Love

Pastries and Peter Pan

I'm not one to comment on my daily life to much but this weekend was just tooo amazing not to share. Plus it's book related sorta?


As you know I work in a bakeshop and We create some pretty crazy stuff and it's ALL edible. But this week the bakeshop produced a Neverland baby shower cake and accompanying desserts and I just had to show you guys all our hard work! But before I do a lil' history on the novel and play featuring Peter Pan:


Peter Pan is a novel and play written by Scottish novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie(1860–1937), and first presented on the stage in 1904. In 1911, Barrie novelized the play into a book, Peter Pan and Wendy. It is a story of a mischievous little boy who can't grow up.

And without further adieu the pics of the bakeshops hard work. First we have the amazing cake that's all edible. (And this cake is huge guys it took 5 people to lift it)! Next I put a closeup view of the cake with Peter on it (and hes made out of white chocolate and edible paint)!

And finally the accompanying pre-plated desserts which feature Hooks pirate ship made from white chocolate!
I really hope everyone enjoys a little insight into my daily life. Yet more than that I hope I get at least a few mouths to water just a bit at the lovely pastries our bakeshop can put out!


LOL=Lots Of Love

Pride And Prejudice

Title: Pride And Prejudice

Author: Jane Austen

Reading level: All (but I recommend late teen-adult)

Paperback: 360 pages

ISBN #: 9781593080204

Received From: I bought it

Publisher: Barnes and Noble Classics

Group Genre: Classic/Romance

Cover: C-

Overall: A+

"'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of agood fortune must be in want of a wife.' Thus memorably begins Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, one of the world's most popular novels. Pride and Prejudice—Austen's own 'darling child'—tells the story of fiercely independent
Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisterswho must marry rich, as she confounds the arrogant, wealthy Mr. Darcy. What ensues is one of the most delightful and engrossingly readable courtships known to literature, written by a precocious Austen when she was just twenty-one years old.Humorous and profound, and filled with highly entertaining dialogue, this witty comedy of manners dips and turns through drawing-rooms and plots to reach an immensely satisfying finale. In the words of Eudora Welty, Pride and Prejudice is as 'irresistible and as nearly flawless as any fiction could be."

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen tells us the heart-warming story of getting the man of your dreams – and all the troubles that are connected with it. Obviously I'm not going to summarize the entire book as just about everyone in their lifetime has heard at the very least tidbits of the book. However; since this is my favorite classical author I would like to put my two-cents in. I love this book sincerely and have since high school. It has been almost 200 years since the book was first published, yet the novel has an easy relevance and connection to the present. Austen truly has an art for writing (unlike most classical writers) the book is easily comprehended and even relatable.

As for the characters, they themselves are timeless. What woman does not search for her own Mr. Darcy or aspire to be a spitfire like Elizabeth. We all have that annoying sibling (Lydia) that is overbearing, and uncontrollable. Elizabeths mother, father, cousins etc. all such memorable and meaningful parts of the story that create and unravel it as we proceed through the novel.

I honestly think everyone should read Jane Austen's works whether it be Pride And Prejudice or another. I truly believe that she defines a classic novel of a beautifully expressed piece of literature which will stand the tests of time. But to be completely truthful I think with age comes appreciation in this novel. As I said I fell in Love in high school and have come to fully appreciate the book now as an adult. So I would recommend this book from late teens through adults and trust me this book is well worth every praise it's received!!!

LOL=Lots Of Love

A Simple Confession

I have a confession to make........ I am falling in love all over again with all things concerning Pride and Prejudice. I was nuts about this novel in high school and have always considered Jane Austen an author way before her time (in regards to writing style). But after just finishing Pride and Prejudice as an Adult (finally haha) I can finally appreciate it as the classic piece of literature it was written to be. I just can't get enough and I apologize in advance as I'll be reviewing quite a bit of Darcy-esque literature for those of you who don't love it (oh come on who doesn't love one of the greatest love stories of all time)! Currently I'm so involved in the Darcy Trilogy I won in a contest from Lucy over at Enchanted by Josephine. (honestly Lucy I can't profess my thanks enough) I just can't wait to find out whats next for the Darcy's and I hope you guys all enjoy my tour through the Georgian Era of England in my reviews and rantings.

LOL=Lots Of Love

Birthday Bash Contest

Reggie over at the Undercover Book Lover (Not Really), but really is celebrating her birthday in March (she will be turning 15). And to celebrate she is holding a mega-huge contest for one lucky winner. The winner will receive 12 (got that) 12 books all of which are March releases. Oh, and did I mention it is an international giveaway.(I don't know if she realizes that she should be the one receiving gifts on her birthday hehe) This is an amazing contest being put on by an outstanding blogger. So let's all wish her a very happy birthday and check out her blog and contest! Contest ends 3/10 for those interested.Click here to see what all the fuss is about!

LOL=Lots of Love

The Amber Room

Title: The Amber Room
Author: Steve Berry
Reading level: All
Paperback: 388
ISBN #: 9780786258574
Received From: I bought it @ The Book Rack
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Group Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery
Cover: C
Overall: B-

"Life is good for Atlanta judge Rachel Cutler. She loves her job, loves herkids, and remains civil to her ex-husband, Paul. But everything changes when her father, a man who survived the horrors of World War II, dies under strange circumstances-and leaves behind clues to a secret he kept his entire life . . .
a secret about something called the Amber Room. Desperate to know the truth about her father's suspicious dealings, Rachel takes off for Germany, with Paul close behind. Shortly after arriving, they find themselves involved with a cast of shadowy characters who all claim to share their quest. But as they learn more about the history of the treasure they seek, Rachel and Paul realize they're in way over their heads. Locked in a treacherous game with ruthless professional killers and embroiled in a treasure hunt of epic proportions, Rachel and Paul suddenly find themselves on a collision course with the forces of power, evil,and history itself."

This book fell a little short for me to be completely honest. After reading some of Berry's latter novels I was a little dissapointed. It reminded me a lot of an M. Night Shyamalan movie meaning The Sixth Sense was astounding yet The Village not so much! The main characters Paul and Rachel are endearing with their rocky romance, and I loved the competing art collectors. But all the action in the novel led me in suspense to a rather surprising let down.

I have to give it to the author though the chase leading up to the Amber Room was enthralling! If only the twist at the end had been different I would truly have loved this book as I have the preious I've reviewed. When all is said and done I liked the book but would defiinetly recommend reading one of the novels by Steve Berry I had prviously reviewed! I still have a few more to go by the same author and I'm hoping they redeem my love for his works!



LOL=Lots of Love

Teaser Tuesdays

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. This week I'm reading a classic (which really needs no introduction): Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. This is actually one of my favorite books from high school. And now being older I've decided to reread the novel. I think it is so interesting how a persons interpretation of a book changes with age!So without further ado here's my teaser for the week!

"About the middle of the next day, as she was in her room getting ready fora walk, a sudden noise below seemed to speak the whole house in confusion; and,after listening a moment, she heard somebody running up the stairs in a violent hurry, and calling loudly after her.She opened the door and met Maria at the landing-place, who, breathless with agitation cried out---
Oh my dear Eliza!"

~pg. 152 Pride And Prejudice by Jane Austen

Let me know your thoughts on classics, maybe even whats your favorite! And as always I look forward to seeing everyones teasers for the week!

LOL=Lots of Love

Signora da Vinci

Title: Signora da Vinci
Author: Robin Maxwell
Reading level: All
Paperback: 422 pages
ISBN #: 9780451225801
Received From: I bought it
Publisher: Penguin Group
Group Genre: Historical Fiction
Cover: A
Overall: A+

"Caterina was fifteen years old in 1452 when she bore an illegitimate child inthe tiny village of Vinci. His name was Leonardo, and he was destined to changethe world forever.Caterina suffered much cruelty as an unmarried mother and hadno recourse when her boy was taken away from her. But no one knew the secrets ofher own childhood, nor could ever have imagined the dangerous and heretical
scheme she would devise to protect and watch over her remarkable son. This is
her story."

Honestly I don't want to summarize any of this book because the authors writing already says it all. This is so far my favorite Robin Maxwell book I've read to date. I love fearless Caterina, questioning Leonardo, passionate Lorenzo, faithful Francesco, even Pierro (whom we're not supposed to like). All of these characters are soooo well written that you can't put the book down. You really want to know them and their story. The settings for the backdrop of the story are so vivid I thought I was in Florence and Vinci. But most of all theirs Caterina/Cato! She is the most courageous woman I've ever come to know through literature. Her strength and passion made me want to be a better person. Her life in Maxwell's eyes is an astounding trip of ups and downfalls.

As I said before I don't want to summarize or give anything away because this is a book I think everyone would want to read! Robin Maxwell has always been a favorite of mine but this novel of hers really hits a home run for historical fiction. If your interested in her work be sure to pick up Signora da Vinci and I promise you won't be disappointed!

LOL=Lots of Love

The Heretic Queen

Title: The Heretic Queen
Author: Michelle Moran
Reading level: All
Paperback: 370 pages
ISBN #: 9780307381750
Received From: I bought it
Publisher: Three Rivers Press
Group Genre: Historical Fiction
Cover: A-
Overall: B+

"In ancient Egypt, a forgotten princess must overcome her family’s past andremake history.The winds of change are blowing through Thebes. A devastatingpalace fire has killed the Eighteenth Dynasty’s royal family—all with the
exception of Nefertari, the niece of the reviled former queen, Nefertiti. The girl’s deceased family has been branded as heretical, and no one in Egypt will speak their names. A relic of a previous reign, Nefertari is pushed aside, an unimportant princess left to run wild in the palace. But this changes when she is taken under the wing of the Pharaoh’s aunt, then brought to the Temple of Hathor, where she is educated in a manner befitting a future queen.Soon Nefertari catches the eye of the Crown Prince, and despite her family’s history,they fall in love and wish to marry. Yet all of Egypt opposes this union between the rising star of a new dynasty and the fading star of an old, heretical one. While political adversity sets the country on edge, Nefertari becomes the wife of Ramesses the Great. Destined to be the most powerful Pharaoh in Egypt, he is also the man who must confront the most famous exodus in history."

So this is Michelle Moran's second novel of the doomed Egyptian family. Nefertari is the niece of The Heretic Queen Nefertiti. After her families fall from grace Nefertari must fight not only for her place at court but also for her life. Ther is always danger in a royal court but when everyone thinks your akhu (family history) has bad blood in it what mor can you do?

Unfortunately it is almost the same story as Moran's first novel and Nefertiti's rise to power. And I know ancient Egypt had many similarities but after being so enthralled in her first novel I wanted her second to surpass my expectations. Unfortunately it fell a little short of meeting them instead. The people and times may have changed yet the plot priomarily remains the same. The fighting wives scenario seems overplaye to me since it was the focus of the first book. However; there is one shining star I loved that everyone had a hidden double agenda so to speak and some chapters will take your breath away with it's corruptedness.

Overall I liked the book, not loved but liked. I really loved Nefertiti and hope that Moran makes a comeback with Cleopatras Daughter (her third book). If your going to pick up a Moran book definetly go for Nefertiti first. The Heretic Queen isn't a bad read but maybe don't read the two so closely together as I did (because then perhaps you won't nit-pick everything). I really enjoy the author's writing style though and look forward to her next enticing novel. After all Egyptians never really die!

LOL=Lots Of Love

Lookin for Love in all the RIGHT places aka Books

It's the month of Love my fellow bloggers. And this month I would really love to celebrate by reading some fantastic love stories. Now I'm not talking about the yuck Velveeta cheesy kind of romance but fun love with a plot. I think I will probably start re-reading Pride and Prejudice, as Jane Austen is the master of all things love and lessons. I want to have fun with cupid this year, and what better way to do this but with the thing you love most to do. Reading! So let me know if you have any suggestions for some fun/romantically involved books. I look forward to hearing your thoughts! And beware cupids arrow might find you too!





LOL=Lots Of Love

Teaser Tuesdays

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. This week I'm reading another wonderful novel by Robin Maxwell. (Her newest will be released this week go check out "O, Juliet" at your nearest bookstore. The book is called "Signora da Vinci" and is the trials and tribulations of Leonardo's mother and himself. I'm only halfway through but I started it yesterday so it's one of those "can't put down" novels. Check back to see my review but for now here's my teaser Tuesday:

"My son was the epitome of all the church feared most. More than stylish
clothes and ornaments that every Florentine affected, it was his secret thoughts
and his strange behaviors that set him most dangerously apart-his blatant
refusal to hear the mass or take communion, his human dissections, his love of
men as well as women, even his refusal to eat the flesh of animals."

~pg. 286 "Signora da Vinci" by Robin Maxwell

Let me know your thoughts and if you have an intriguing teaser. I love to find new blogs of interest and really love to "read your minds"

LOL=Lots Of Love

Stressed in Scottsdale

Title: Stressed in Scottsdale
Author: Marcia Fine
Reading level: more adultish
Hardcover: 325
ISBN #:978061531513351495
Received From: received from Bostick Communications
Publisher: L'Image Press
Group Genre: fiction/comedy
Cover: B+
Overall: B-


"Jean Rubin, a multi-tasker, has too much to do. She tries to find sanity in a
world where environmental issues and political corruption make you laugh out
loud. Wickedly funny!"


"Stressed in Scottsdale" is a comedy about one woman's life spiraling out of control into a stress-infused free fall. Poor Jean tries to take care of everyone elses needs in between doctors appointments and her husbands new political campaign for a greener Arizona. Her balancing juggle act may never end even when she has a mini stroke.

It made me laugh from start to finish. You can easily relate to Jean if you are in college or post-college. I see my stress through her and think "thank god that's not me!" Jean is relateable as opposed to her kooky friends and children. But they make life all the more interesting. I really enjoyed the flow of the book but I thought the ending was rather abrupt it seemed unfinished. Yes, the day is saved time to relax but there's got to be something else just around the corner that could have been alluded to! The authors sarcasm was refreshing it's nice to hear a woman author who's not afraid to put it out there. I really enjoyed the little stress tips at the beginning of each chapter (they were so amusing).

I really loved this book as a short read, but sad to say it wasn't a "you can't put this down" kind of book. I think all in all the book was a great comedic read but not a life changing experience. If you've need a good laugh and maybe some perspective on your own stress level pick up "Stressed in Scottsdale".

LOL=Lots Of Love

The Templar Legacy

Title: The Templar Legacy
Author: Steve Barry
Reading level: All
Paperback: 482 pages
ISBN #: 0345476158
Received From: I bought it @ The Book Rack
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Group Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery
Cover: C-
Overall: A+

"Cotton Malone, onetime top operative for the U.S. Justice Department, is
enjoying his quiet new life when an unexpected call to action reawakens his
hair-trigger instincts–and plunges him back into the cloak-and-dagger world
he thought he’d left behind.It begins with a violent robbery attempt on Cotton’s former supervisor, Stephanie Nelle, who’s far from home on a mission that has nothing to do with national security. Armed with vital clues to a series of centuries-old puzzles scattered across Europe, she means to crack a mystery that has tantalized scholars and fortune hunters through the ages by finding the legendary cache of wealth and forbidden knowledge thought to have been lost forever when the order of the Knights Templar was exterminated in the fourteenth century. But she’s not alone. Competing for the historic prize–and desperate for the crucial information Stephanie possesses–is Raymond de Roquefort, a shadowy zealot with an army of assassins at his command. At the end of a lethal game of conquest, rife with intrigue, treachery, and craven lust for power, lies a shattering discovery that could rock the civilized world–and, in the wrong hands, bring it to its knees. "

Stephanie and Cotton (I still don't know how he got his name?) are on a journey to find the Templar's Great Devise. The Templar's are a secret order sworn to protect Christianity. And the Great Devise was a treasure and possible exposure of Christianity that was secreted away during 1308 from the French Royal family. Lost since that time our two heroes must meet friends, family and foes to help them on their quest; and find the Great Devise before it falls into the wrong hands.

The characters are so well written showing only glimmers of their true selves and past as they confront obstacles which leads to more intrigue. The setting all factual is so vivid in description you feel as if your in Europe fighting right along our protagonists. Fear, suspense and intrigue will grip you as you read on to discover the treasure.

If you loved the "Da Vinci Code" just wait till you get your hands on this read. I could not put this book down!!! I read this one in two days (which is why I haven't been able to post). I love that the author only fictionalizes the basic storyline. All places, and historical reference is true. (There were Knights Templar and the french king did try to retrieve their treasure. ) So to add just a little more suspense there is a possibility that this story is possible (hehe). Wouldn't we all like to know? But I'll leave you with the authors inspiration for this story which I'll quote now "It has served us well, this myth of Christ" ~Pope Leo X.

LOL=Lots of Love

Teaser Tuesdays

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. This week I'm reading "The Templar Legacy" by Steve Barry. It is a historical/fiction-mystery novel based in present time about the search for the Knights treasure (the holy grail). Filled with suspense here is my Teaser Tuesday:

"Many thousands of brothers died on the battlefields of the Holyland. Not one of them ever rose and walked away."

~pg 276 "The Templar Legacy" by Steve Barry

I haven't read this far yet but I have to say it's kind of mocking the resurrection. Which makes sense considering the main characters are trying to take down a corrupted, holy order!

LOL=Lots of Love

Author of the Month: Robin Maxwell

Bio Information:
Robin Maxwell grew up in New Jersey, graduated from Tufts University School of Occupational Therapy, and practiced in that field for several years before moving to Hollywood to become a parrot tamer, casting director and finally a screenwriter. Working for the major studios and networks she wrote comedy, drama and even feature animation for Disney. Her credits include "Passions," a CBS movie of the week, starring Joanne Woodward.

But somewhere along the line, the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, and women "ahead of their time," became Maxwell's private obsession. In April of 1997 her first novel, the award-winning SECRET DIARY OF ANNE BOLEYN was published and is now in its 22nd printing. She followed with THE QUEEN'S BASTARD (1999), the Los Angeles Times bestseller VIRGIN, Prelude to the Throne (2001) and THE WILD IRISH, a novel of Elizabeth I and the Pirate O'Malley (2003) that together form her "Elizabethan Quartet."
TO THE TOWER BORN (2005) took Maxwell back a century to delve into the lives of the early Tudors ancestors for the mystery of the lost York princes, and MADEMOISELLE BOLEYN (2007) into the fascinating childhood of the heroine who inspired her career as an author. With her seventh novel, SIGNORA DA VINCI, the author left England and Ireland behind to explore the Italian Renaissance. She remains in 15th century Florence for the upcoming O, JULIET, an imagining of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers.

The books have seen publication in England, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Indonesia, Hungary, Portugal, Czech Republic, the Ukraine, Japan and all the Spanish-speaking countries in the world. Several books are in large print and audio format. She is busy adapting her novels for the screen.For more information visit her website here.

My Thoughts: Robin Maxwell has such an inspiring voice through her literature. I love the way she writes as though she has put herself in the characters shoes in that time period. She seems to transport herself easily through time and space in her novels. I've sincerely loved every book I've read by her to this date. (mark it down 2/1/2010) Which isn't always the case with authors writing numerous novels. If you haven't already please try to get your hands on one of her books. I think you'll really enjoy her view into history. And this is why I have chosen her as my first "Author of the Month".

LOL=Lots Of Love

To the Tower Born: A Novel of the Lost Princes

Title: To the Tower Born: A Novel of the Lost Princes
Author: Robin Maxwell
Reading level: All
Hardcover: 301
ISBN #: 9780060580520
Received From: I bought it @ Thrift Books
Publisher: Harper Collins
Group Genre: Historical Fiction
Cover: B+
Overall: A-

"Debated for more than five centuries, the disappearance of the young princes Edward and Richard from the Tower of London in 1483 has stirred the imaginations
of numerous writers from Shakespeare to Josephine Tey and posited the question:
Was Richard III the boys' murderer, or was he not? In a captivating novel rich
in mystery, color, and historical lore, Robin Maxwell offers a new,
controversial perspective on this tantalizing enigma. The events are witnessed
through the eyes of quick-witted Nell Caxton, only daughter of the first English
printer, William Caxton, and Nell's dearest friend, "Bessie," daughter of the
King of England, sister to the little princes, and founding ancestress of the
Tudor dynasty. With great bravery and heart, the two friends navigate this dark
and dangerous medieval landscape in which the king's death sets off a battle
among the most scheming, ambitious, and murderous men and women of their age,
who will stop at nothing to possess the throne of England."

Robin Maxwell has done it again (at least for me!!). In this novel we are taken to a civil war in England; Lancaster vs. York. Nell Caxton a daughter of a bookseller (to the royal family) carefully narrates us from the Tower cell of Queen Elizabeth of York back in time. King Edward is dead and the young prince Edward is now King. However; warring uncles try to seize the crown and a renegade usurper appears seemingly out of nowhere. England is in turmoil and it's up to Nell to find all the solutions using all her intellect, and connections to find and free the true royal family at last! (I won't give away anymore because it might spoil the book)

"To the Tower Born" like Robin Maxwell's previous novels I've reviewed did not disappoint. Once again I am lost in another time period. I am taken into the confidence of a young future Queen of England and her best friend Nell. I love the "what if?" in this story. It makes you wonder, what happened to these princes? Why has one family torn itself into a million pieces? Nell is a wonderful character (and actually historically true) full of courage and cunning. She keeps you grounded and ever-questioning. Bessie her other half is the exact opposite (but you know what they say about opposites) a spitfire true to her emotions at all cost. The people places and action of this book will keep you on the edge of your seat!

The novel flows easily and was a short read for me. (A very relaxing day-off-work piece.) I did want more to this novel wishing their was a sequel ( like her Elizabeth novels) but maybe it will come in time. If you have time and are looking to get into hit/fic of just love it like I do, definitely check out this book.

LOL=Lots Of Love