About Me

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I am an avid reader, animal lover, devourer of guacamole, storyteller and the author of An Unexpected Obsession, A Dose of Reality, Witch Way, A Coven by Christmas, Love Spells, Summer Solstice (coming soon), Flirting With Death, Flirting With Murder and the rest of the upcoming Assassins Anonymous series. I attended Arizona State University (go Sun Devils!) and make my home in the Valley of the Sun with my husband and three pampered pets. I like to discuss everything funny, sexy, sassy and absurd. But mostly I like to talk about books... and shoes... and outrageously expensive purses... and Chanel sunglasses ...oooh, and anything sparkly... or fluffy! So, come on in and let's chat!

Friday, October 28, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Recap...

TGIF and Happy Halloween Weekend! In celebration of my release of Witch Way I have been featuring my personal haunted holiday favorites all month long. Since I have run out of witchy recommendations that I've actually read, I thought I would recap (in no particular order) the fantastic books I've featured so far... 


Enjoy!






























Have a safe and wonderfully spooky Halloween!!!

~Heidi




Thursday, October 27, 2011

Breaking Dawn Part One... Anyone else excited for Bella & Edward to FINALLY get it on?


It's Almost Time!!!


"No measure of time with you will be long enough, but we'll start with forever"
-Edward Cullen







*Sigh and swoon* - so jealous!

I was a latecomer to the Twilight series... my sister-in-law kept insisting I read the books and I kept insisting they were stupid. Now, I'm a complete Twi-Hard fan! But it's not really the books that I love, the movies are definitely better in my opinion and I can't wait for Breaking Dawn Part One! I know, I'm completely pathetic. It's not even the story... I love Robert Pattinson in the role of Edward Cullen. Obsessed is a good way to describe it. Since in most other ways, aside from my consuming need to see every picture ever taken of the delicious R-Patz, I'm an adult... so this preoccupation with a random movie star is a little embarrassing.


Wait, I don't care! All I do care about is seeing the two lovebirds finally getting it on (insert my face in these fantasies and they're perfect. LOL!)! I do have some complaints - it's been years, Robby, couldn't you have hired a personal trainer? But then I see an interview and he's all gorgeous with that jawline, those blue eyes, the British accent, all that messy hair I want to yank on while I climb up his lanky frame... okay, the body's irrelevant as long as that face is there to distract me.


A couple years ago I became so preoccupied that I finally let out all my pent-up sexual frustration (the kisses were great, but come on... I have needs) and my writing career was born. The story poured out of me until, poof, the obsession dried up. I love that book (An Unexpected Obsession), and it is definitely the steamiest thing I've ever written. I have Robert Pattinson (and my x-rated fantasies) to thank for making it so easy to finally get the words flowing...


Anyway, I'm beginning to get those feelings back as the premier date for Breaking Dawn draws nearer. I'm not as obsessed as I was, but I occasionally feel the need for an R-Patz fix. (I'm definitely in recovery though... I only look at the Google alert I have set up every third day - I promise... completely in recovery). For those of you who feel the same, enjoy the eye-candy!


~Heidi

Flirting With Death - Assassins Anonymous Step One - Possible New Cover!!!

This might be it... the new cover for the first book in my new series - Assassins Anonymous! What do you think? This one was harder than most because it straddles so many genres - Romance, Mystery, Suspense, Chick-Lit, all with a sprinkling of humor. Sort of Janet Evanovich without the slapstick...

Do you get that from the cover? Things might change dramatically as I get closer to the publication date, but when I saw this one it really caught my eye. It will also be fun to see where the rest of the covers go from here...

I would love to hear your thoughts!

~Heidi

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #15 - Opal Fire by Barbra Annino

If you love Cozy Mysteries and Paranormal, you will love this book. Opal Fire is the debut novel in a new series by Barbra Annino and I'm so glad I found it. It has a little bit of all my favorites: Paranormal, Romance, Mystery,  the humor of Chick-Lit, and, of course, WITCHES. Another great addition to the Halloween season.

Opal Fire is currently $2.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Book 2, Bloodstone, is also out now. Have fun!

Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Stacy Justice is a small town reporter who was raised by witches. They believe she has a far higher calling than writing articles about the local lizard race. She's just happy she doesn't have to live with them anymore. But when her cousin's bar catches fire and she barely escapes with her life--family squabbles no longer matter. Something cryptic is uncovered in the rubble that changes everything. Stacy is thrust into a cat and mouse game as she seeks to unveil the cause of the blaze that nearly destroyed her family. Suddenly, she finds herself running from a killer that will stop at nothing to keep a secret. 

Want more Witchy Reads? Peruse my home page or click here. Happy Haunted Reading!

~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.
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Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #14 - Witch Moon by Maggie Shayne

I was so excited to see this in the ebook store! Witch Moon by Maggie Shayne was re-released this Halloween and as a bonus it has actual spells from Maggie's own Book of Shadows. If you enjoy tales of magic and witchcraft (especially those told by an author who is a practicing witch), you won't want to miss this novella. In a word - EXCELLENT!

Currently only $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, this is a rare treat for Maggie Shayne fans as this story was previously out-of-print.

Description: (from Amazon's product page)

OUT OF THE BROOM CLOSET,
INTO THE FIRE....
Being a Witch in a small town is hard enough.
Being a Witch and a high school teacher is even harder.
But when horrible things with “occult” trappings begin happening by night in Ezra Township, things get dangerous for Mirabella Saint Angeline. And when one teen dies, they get downright deadly as a modern day Witch hunt begins.

Along with this rare, out of print paranormal romance novella by New York Times Bestselling author and real life modern day Witch Maggie Shayne,
You’ll get a special treat!

BONUS MATERIAL:
Actual Spells from Maggie’s own personal Book of Shadows, including spells for protection, money, weight management, problem solving and more.

This is a Halloween treat not to be missed!


Want more magical recommendations? Click here or scroll through my home page. Happy Witchy Reading!

~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Have you enjoyed my previous books? Leave a review and get a coupon for a free download of my latest!




Hi, fellow book lovers!


First, a huge THANK YOU to my readers! I never hoped to have so many people reading and enjoying what I've written! Your support is humbling and awe-inspiring for a fledgling novelist such as myself. I've been debating about posting this to my blog for months - I keep vacillating between finding the concept vulgar and knowing I need to do something to get my books noticed. (It is really hard being a new author when there are so many wonderful choices out there!)


But... I need your help and can't think of a better way to go about this... I've been published for a little over a year and find it difficult to get reviews on Amazon (and everywhere else for that matter, but Kindle owners are by far the largest percentage of my readers). Like all authors, I crave feedback from my fans. But I also realize and appreciate that your time is valuable. So, I have a proposition for you (that sounds seedy, but it's a good proposition - I swear): If you've read and enjoyed either of my first novels (An Unexpected Obsession or A Dose of Reality), and leave a review* on Amazon (or have in the past), please let me know - you can either comment below, send me an email (WriterGurl1@live.com) or private message me on Twitter (@WriterGurl1). In return, I will send you a coupon for a free ebook download of my latest - Witch Way - or any of my other ebooks you would like! Simply copy and paste the URL from your review on Amazon into your comment, email, or tweet & let me know which book you would like to read. Already read everything I've written (I love you!)? I have a new book coming out in November (first in my new Assassins Anonymous series) and I'd be happy to keep your info** and give you a coupon for a free download of it as soon as it's released!


What do you think? Am I a horrible person for groveling? I hope not and thank each and every one of you in advance for going out of your way to help!


Sincerely~Heidi

*Review must be from a verified Amazon purchaser. Free coupon download is from Smashwords, which allows you to download any version you would like - Nook, Kindle, Sony, iPad, etc. Positive review not required - I want your honest opinion for future readers!

**I will not save your information after coupon has been delivered. Your info will only be used to deliver your free download and verify review, then promptly deleted. This is a spam-free zone!

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #13 - The Trouble With Spells by Lacey Weatherford

Definitely Twilight comparisons here... and without a doubt The Trouble With Spells was written for a younger audience, but that didn't stop me from enjoying this book. If you're a fan of YA Paranormal Romance, this one's for you! Angsty and fun, with sweet romance and lots going on, The Trouble With Spells is a must-read for Twilight aficionado's. There were a few grammar issues that may have been fixed since I downloaded my copy, but I don't believe they'll affect your ability to escape into this tale.


The Trouble With Spells is the first in the Of Witches and Warlocks series and is currently $0.99 on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Try it!


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

What does every young girl wish for on her sixteenth birthday? Not to be told she's a witch, that's for sure!
But what if it comes with powers, a hot romance, and exciting adventure?
Of Witches and Warlocks Series Book One, The Trouble with Spells

Portia Mullins had always lived the life of a normal teenager, up until her sixteenth birthday. She is then informed by her grandma that she is actually a witch who is a descendant of a long line of witches and warlocks. After overcoming her disbelief she finds that being a member of the coven comes with one great perk in the form of the school’s handsome bad boy, Vance Mangum. Vance and Portia have an immediate connection as a budding romance begins, only to be threatened by turbulent skies on the horizon as Vance’s checkered past rears its ugly head to haunt them. Portia is forced to use her untried powers in defense of everything she loves in a desperate attempt to hold on to the one thing that really matters in her life



Want more Witchy Halloween Recommendations? Try my Amazon list here!


~Heidi


**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Voodoo doll costume - I made it for my hubby!!!

It is hard to get my husband into the Halloween spirit, but when I told him I would make his costume his interest was raised considerably. Now, he's a pretty big guy, 6'4" and about 240lbs., so "off-the-rack" never works. I had a bolt of burlap that I'd been considering making into curtains and thought... hmm, voodoo doll? I used dowel rods and Styrofoam balls for "pins"... a little spray paint and tada! It was fun and I can't believe how well it turned out since I didn't even have a pattern.


What do you think? I definitely recommend as an inexpensive do-it-yourself costume idea! The only downside is we live in Arizona and even on Halloween it's pretty warm here - the hood didn't stay on for long. Everywhere else? try it!


Have homemade costume ideas? Please share by leaving a comment below. Happy Haunting!


~Heidi

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #12 - Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer

It took me a while to get into this book, Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer, but once I did, I really enjoyed the story. Those of you who like YA, will gobble up this book as it is written for teens+ with a twenty-ish heroine and enough romance not to leave you wanting. There are some British spellings and a few minor mistakes that may be language differences (the author is British, I believe), but nothing completely horrible and the story is fun enough for me to recommend.


Currently $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, it's a cute, witchy tale with plenty of action and paranormal adventure.


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

More than three hundred years after the most terrifying witch hunts the world has ever known, it's happening again.

Racing from attack by the ruthless Brotherhood in London to the powerful witch council in New York, twenty-four-year-old novice witch Stella has to put her faith in strangers just to stay alive but she might not be any safer in their midst than from the danger she is running from.

Sent to an extraordinary safe house by the sea to learn her craft, Stella finds there is more than one dark secret in her new family: Étoile’s sister is spoken of in fear and sadness; Marc is supposed to be a powerful witch but is missing his magic; where does the owner of their safe house vanish to every day and why does Evan have the eyes of someone not quite human? There is only one secret that someone will do anything to keep quiet, but whose secret is it and will Stella have to pay the price for silence?


Want more witchy recommendations? Click here!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #11 - Secondhand Spirits by Juliet Blackwell

Secondhand Spirits, the first in the Witchcraft Mystery series by Juliet Blackwell, is the fun story of a witch who wants nothing more than to run her vintage clothing store. I think my favorite part of this tale is Lily's familiar - a potbellied pig named Oscar. This story was very well written and engaging with plenty of fun characters to sink your teeth into. 


Currently $6.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, the price may seem steep for those of us getting used to ebooks under $5. But don't miss this one! I highly recommend.


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Love the vintage— not the ghosts

Lily Ivory feels that she can finally fit in somewhere and conceal her “witchiness” in San Francisco. It’s there that she opens her vintage clothing shop, outfitting customers both spiritually and stylistically.

Just when things seem normal, a client is murdered and children start disappearing from the Bay Area. Lily has a good idea that some bad phantoms are behind it. Can she keep her identity secret, or will her witchy ways be forced out of the closet as she attempts to stop the phantom?


Want more Witchy Halloween recommendations? Click here! Happy Haunting!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #10 - Splitsville.com by Tonya Kappes

Splitsville.com by Tonya Kappes might seem a bit outside of the "Halloween" theme I have going this month, but this is a cute read and thought it should be a part of my list. Besides, "aura reading" is pretty witchy, right?


A cozy paranormal mystery is how I would describe this book and is perfect for a weekend read when you just want a bit of light fun. Be warned, this is Chick-Lit... not meant to answer the great questions of the universe - which is exactly why I enjoyed it. Currently only $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, don't miss out.


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Splitsville.com is more than Olivia Davis ever dreamed of when she launched the online break up service where she does the dirty work under the alias of Jenn. No one can find out she’s the mastermind of her internet sensation, especially when they threaten her for breaking their hearts.

More importantly, Olivia can’t keep a job. The problem is, she has a ‘gift’. Or what she considers a curse- reading auras. When a bunch of auras collide, Olivia isn’t able to function. So having an online business works out great.

But when two of her clients turn up dead and puts her company at risk, she’s the first one on the trail. With Splitsville.com future on the line, it’s time to use her ‘gift’ to figure out who the killer is and who’s trying to set her up.

You never know who's behind the monitor.



Want more Witchy Halloween Reading Recommendations? Click here.


Happy Haunting!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #9 - A Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale by Ramona Wray

First, just let me say that I think this cover is absolutely adorable and would have bought this book for it alone - too cute! The story is really fun as well, although more aimed at a YA reader... but we all know adults devour YA books (hello, Twilight) *holds up hand - guilty*. I liked this book and thought it had a very interesting premise. With a quick page-turning pace and a fun new world to escape to, A Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale by Ramona Wray is an easy Halloween reading recommendation to make.


Currently only $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble - with a solid 4 1/2 star rating on both sites - don't miss out!


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Like most girls at Rosemound High School, seventeen-year-old Lily Crane is acutely aware of Ryder Kingscott. Hands down the cutest guy in school, Ryder is cool, mysterious, and utterly untouchable…especially for Lily. For when she touches someone, Lily instantly learns all about their lives. And while such a skill might seem nifty, in truth it is wrecking Lily’s life. So she is shocked when Ryder asks her out — and even more shocked to discover he has a rival. Lucian Bell is the gorgeous new kid who can’t take his eyes off of Lily. Being pursued by two hotties should make a girl happy, but Lily is skeptical. The boys act as if they’ve met before, hating each other with a passion that could only be rooted in a dark, dangerous past. A past full of terrible secrets. The kind of secrets that could get a girl killed.

Want more Witchy Halloween Recommendations? Try my Amazon list here!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #8 - Illegal Magic by Arlene Blakely

I loved how spicy this book was right from the first page! Illegal Magic by Arlene Blakely is witchy fun and a wickedly sexy, funny good time. The story is an excellent blend of Chick Lit and Paranormal Romance and since I'd never heard of this author before, I was pleasantly surprised at how entertaining her writing is. The book is a quick read - I can't tell exactly how many pages on the Kindle, but it's a cross between a novella and a novel. I definitely recommend!


Currently $2.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, you won't want to miss this one!


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

What do you get when you mix magic & lawyers? More than you bargained for.

Lani's family has magic. Her friends have magic. Even the plants in her community are magical.

But Lani's powers never manifest, and she's tired of feeling like the odd one out. So she goes to law school and does her best to fit in with the non-magical world.

Too bad her first client is a geeky vampire. And her second client is an evil sorcerer. And her smoking hot one night stand doesn't remember her name.

If Lani survives her first week of work, she's gonna seriously consider a career change.


Want more? click on home (above) to track my Happy Halloween Reading Recommendations or visit my list on Amazon!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #7 - Witches Anonymous by Misty Evans

Witches Anonymous is the first novella in a series starring Amy Atwood - A witch on the wagon. I have to admit I was a bit startled when I came across this book, but only because my own new series is titled "Assassins Anonymous" - a complete coincidence (and my story doesn't involve any witches... I left that for Witch Way :-).) But back to the point of this post... Witches Anonymous is a completely original, dark and delightful tale that may offend some readers, but I really enjoyed. Who can resist a witch who dates Lucifer? Wickedly good!


Currently $2.66 on Amazon and $3.50 on Barnes & Noble. There are more books in the series available as well (I haven't read them yet, so can't yet recommend)... but they include: Jingle Hells, Wicked Souls, Dark Moon Lilith, and The Devil & Venus Di Milo.


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Can a bad witch go good in thirteen steps? Not if Lucifer has his way with her!

Tickle My Fantasy anthology story.

Amy Atwood is a witch. Not the harm-none kind...the Satan-worshipping, devil-made-me-do-it kind. But after catching Lucifer in a particularly wicked hex act with her goodie-two-shoes Wiccan sister, Amy does what every self-respecting witch would do. She pops a Dove chocolate in her mouth, ends her affair with the devil, and swears an oath never to use magic again.

She wants to be normal. Human. Even if it means no more fun--and she's looking for a nice, normal guy to complement her new lifestyle. And ice-cream-loving firefighter Adam Foster looks like perfect hero material.

Lucifer, however, isn't about to be nice about letting her go. Stalked by Satan, manipulated by the angel Gabriel--and surprised by Adam's true identity--Amy finds herself up to her black hat in trouble of Biblical proportions...

Warning: Welcome to temptation. Sexy Lucifer is going to enchant you. The original Adam is going to charm you. And the angel Gabriel is going to scare your socks off!


Click here for a complete list of Witchy Halloween Reading recommendations!


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Halloween Witchy Reads Post #6 - Payback's a Witch by Rachel Astor

The days are flying by on the witchy reads countdown to Halloween! I can't believe this is my sixth post!


What happens when you find the love of your life and his ex-girlfriend turns out to be a witch set on revenge? A hilarious tale of dating is the outcome for Rachel Astor in her book Payback's a Witch! Cute story, cute characters... just a really cute story. And, at only $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, make sure you download your copy soon!


Description: (from Amazon product page)

Nelle Peterson has finally found Mr. Right. He’s handsome, smart, and successful. In fact, she’s amazed he’s still available.
But shortly after her new relationship begins, things start to go wrong. Really wrong. Nelle doesn’t really believe in fate, or fairy tales, or magic, but when her boyfriend lets it slip that his ex used to be really into witchcraft, it all starts to fall into place.
Will Nelle be able to get past her logical ways and protect herself? Can she keep her boyfriend from falling back under the ex’s spell? And now that it's Nelle's turn to learn the ways of witchcraft, what will happen when she tries to conjure up a little revenge of her own?


Happy Witchy Reading! (see my complete guide at Amazon)


~Heidi

**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Halloween Reads Post #5 - Every Witch Way But Wicked - Anthology

What a wonderful way to get into the Halloween spirit! Every Witch Way But Wicked is an anthology of eleven short stories by twelve different paranormal authors - with all proceeds going to the wonderful Kids Need to Read charity! Fun and a great choice for bite-sized reading. You won't be disappointed with these witchy tales...


Currently $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble!


Description: (from Amazon's product page)

Foreword by Amanda Hocking
Take twelve paranormal authors. Toss them together in one anthology. Add a dash of romance, a pinch of humor and a dollop of mystery. Stir in a few ghosts, a handful of sorcerers and garnish with magic for the perfect witch's brew.

A Tale of Two Witches ~ Christiana Miller and Barbra Annino
Two young witches join forces to take on a soul-stealer when he threatens the small town of Amethyst, IL.
Black Magic Wiccan ~ Toni LoTempio
On one of her last assignments before leaving PSI, Wiccan witch Morgan Hawkes calls upon her Voodoo heritage to battle a vengeful spirit.
The Kiss ~ Edie Ramer
In this modern-day version of Sleeping Beauty, a woman whose ancestor was accused of being a witch in Salem is the only hope of a dying man with unusual powers.
The Trouble With Spells ~ Camilla Chafer
A witch couple must solve a family mystery using both their magic and their wits.
Rianna's Revenge ~ Dale Mayer
A young hydromancer must win a challenge to save her place as rightful heir to her elemental house. When she discovers her ex--the man she still loves--is one of the judges, she wonders just how many enemies she's really fighting.
A Ghostly Match ~ Misty Evans
When a Voodoo matchmaker looking for her soul mate pleads to her dead grandmother for help, she opens the door to a ghostly client with an impossible demand.
A Samhain Surprise ~ Debora Geary
Enchanter's Realm is an online game for witches. And the creators have a surprise ready this Hallow's Eve.
The Witch is Back ~ Rose Pressey
Stormy Sanders discovers a beautiful crystal, but with it comes a witchy fairy godmother. When Stormy attempts her first magic spell on Halloween night, mysterious Gavin Wickcliffe shows up at her door. That's when she realizes there's a lot more to magic than she expected.
Cats and Dogs ~ J.L. Bryan
Enchanted cookies from a witchy neighbor help connect Sadie with her own pets--and that handsome neighbor she's been eyeing.
The Hazards of Desire ~ Wren Emerson
Love hurts, but Desire can kill. When a young girl has a conversation with an old woman long shunned by the town, she finds out why it's best to guard your emotions closely and be careful who you put your faith in. Especially when it comes to trusting your own heart.
Orion's Moon ~ Terri Reid
When blood-born witch Cassidy Maguire opens her home to a stray dog she names Orion, little does she realize that she will not only be the hunter, but the hunted.

This compilation is 60,000 words. Proceeds go to Kids Need to Read - Nathan Fillion's charity that promotes literacy and ignites imagination. 

Kids Need to Read is a national nonprofit foundation that promotes childhood literacy and addresses the crisis in library funding that currently exists in the United States. Donating inspiring, new books to schools, public libraries, juvenile offender facilities, dropout recovery programs, urban afterschool organizations, and special education classes, the foundation works to develop a lifelong love of reading and an awareness of social responsibility in all children.
The highly praised Kids Need to Read book donation list features the best of contemporary reading material to appeal to the sensibilities of today's youth, including the most reluctant of readers. Whether it is giving free comics and Highlights magazines to homeless children or providing the first books to a charter school with no library, Kids Need to Read focuses on one goal -getting kids to pick up something to read and never wanting to stop.



Happy Halloween Reading!


~Heidi


**I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Witchy Halloween Reads Post #4 - Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble by H.P. Mallory

For my fourth Haunted Halloween recommendation, I return to one of the first self-published books I ever read - Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble by H.P. Mallory. I remember being so excited to turn the next page. There are many subsequent books out now in this series, but this one was the first and, therefore, gets top billing on my list. 


Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble is only $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Toil and Trouble ($3.99) and Witchful Thinking ($7.99) are also available for Kindle & Nook.


Description: (from Amazon product page)


"A self-deprecating witch with the unique ability to reanimate the dead.
A dangerously handsome warlock torn between being her boss and her would-be lover.
A six hundred year old English vampire with his own agenda; one that includes an appetite for witches.
The Underworld in a state of chaos.
Let the games begin.
Life isn’t bad for psychic Jolie Wilkins. True, she doesn’t have a love life to speak of, but she has a cute house in the suburbs of Los Angeles, a cat and a quirky best friend.
Enter Rand Balfour, a sinfully attractive warlock who insists she’s a witch and who just might turn her life upside down. Rand hires her to help him solve a mystery regarding the death of his client who also happens to be a ghost. Jolie not only uncovers the cause of the ghost’s demise but, in the process, she brings him back to life!
Word of Jolie’s incredible ability to bring back the dead spreads like wildfire, putting her at the top of the Underworld’s most wanted list. Consequently, she finds herself at the center of a custody battle between a villainous witch, a dangerous but oh-so-sexy vampire, and her warlock boss, Rand."



Happy Witchy Reading!


~Heidi


**I am not a professional reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. The opinions stated here are mine alone.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Great Halloween Reads Post #3 - "Me and My Ghoulfriends" & "Ghouls Night Out" by Rose Pressey



Day 3 of my great Halloween must-reads is a two-for-one (not price, but you'll want to read both of these ghoulishly delightful tales). Me and my Ghoulfriends and Ghouls Night Out by Rose Pressey are simply charming stories and I can't recommend them enough. Paranormal Chick-Lit as it's best with witches and ghosts and - absolute escapism! Don't miss out!


Me and My Ghoulfriends is currently $0.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble - a perfect introductory price and believe me, you'll be hooked. Ghouls Night out is also a bargain at $2.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. A hauntingly good time!

Description: Me and My Ghoulfriends (Book 1)


"There's always fun to be had on a ghoul's night out.
By day, Larue Donavan is a down-to-earth bookstore owner. But by night, she's a world-renowned psychic investigator dedicated to helping lost spirits find peace. Dead people won't leave her alone and Abraham Lincoln thinks he's in charge of her lovelife. Larue can handle ghosts and undead presidents. It's the living who drive her crazy.
When Callahan Weiss moves to town, the handsome newcomer opens a coffee shop right next door. She's smitten from the start, but she's not the only one -- The boutique owner across the street has her eye on Callahan too, and uses witchcraft to fight dirty. When Callahan gets hit by a love spell, Larue will need more than a little help from her ghoul-friends to save the day..." 



Description: Ghouls Night Out (Book 2)


"Larue Donavan is a bookstore owner by day and psychic medium ghost buster by night. Just when she thought she’d gotten rid of the pesky ghosts following her, a new ghostly entourage has appeared. Her new group of ghoul friends includes a celebrity…the ghost of Mae West. And does Mae ever have dating advice for Larue!
When a stranger shows up in Magnolia, Kentucky, things take a turn for the worse. Larue’s new love interest, Callahan Weiss, barista extraordinaire, isn’t sure if Larue is interested in what he’s got brewing. Something weird is going on in town and Larue’s best friend, Mindy, is in danger.
Has a demon followed Larue home from an investigation? Is the new man in town to blame for the strange occurrences? Not only is Larue trying to save Mindy, but the coven leader wants Larue to use her new spellbinding talents and become a full-time witch. Larue’s not sure she’s ready for her new paranormal gift though.
If Larue doesn’t find the source of the evil soon, she may lose all she holds dear."



Happy Halloween Reading!


~Heidi


**Disclaimer: I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. The opinions stated here are mine alone.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Great Halloween Reads, Post #2 - A Modern Witch by Debora Geary

Continuing with my witchy Halloween reading recommendations is A Modern Witch by Debora Geary. I have to admit to being confused through the first few chapters of this book because there are a lot of characters... but don't let that dissuade you from enjoying this wonderful story. Once I got them straight, A Modern Witch turned out to be a delightfully charming and original tale of witches breaking into the 21st century through an online witch-finder/connection service.


Currently $3.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, this is another steal for holiday reading/entertainment. It's definitely filled with all things witchy. And if you love series (like I do), never fear - A Hidden Witch is already available!

Description:

"Can you live 28 years without discovering you're a witch?

Lauren is downtown Chicago's youngest elite realtor. She's also a witch. She must be - the fetching spell for Witches' Chat isn't supposed to make mistakes. So says the woman who coded the spell, at least.

The tall, dark, and handsome guy sent to assess her is a witch too (and no, that doesn't end the way you might think). What he finds in Lauren will change lives, mess with a perfectly good career, and require lots of ice cream therapy."


Happy Halloween Reading!

~Heidi

**Disclaimer: I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. The opinions stated here are mine alone.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Haunted on Bourbon Street by Deanna Chase - A perfect read for Halloween!!!

It's Halloween time!!! To get you in the spirit, I'll be recommending great books with witchy themes through October 31st. 


First up: Haunted on Bourbon Street by Deanna Chase. I really enjoyed this book! Mystery, sexy romance, paranormal happenings... what more could you ask for? Also, I absolutely love ghostly tales set in New Orleans... a visit to that culture-rich city is definitely on my bucket list. Currently $3.99 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble and worth every penny. Enjoy!

Description:

"Jade loves her new apartment—until a ghost joins her in the shower.

When empath Jade Calhoun moves into an apartment above a strip bar on Bourbon Street, she expects life to get interesting. What she doesn’t count on is making friends with an exotic dancer, attracting a powerful spirit, and developing feelings for Kane, her sexy landlord.

Being an empath has never been easy on Jade’s relationships. It’s no wonder she keeps her gift a secret. But when the ghost moves from spooking Jade to terrorizing Pyper, the dancer, it’s up to Jade to use her unique ability to save her. Except she’ll need Kane’s help—and he’s betrayed her with a secret of his own—to do it. Can she find a way to trust him and herself before Pyper is lost?"


Happy Halloween Reading!


~Heidi


**Disclaimer: I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. The opinions stated here are mine alone.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

The Fashion Police by Sibel Hodge is a cute story.

I liked this book, The Fashion Police (great title), by Sibel Hodge and I think you will too if you enjoy Gemma Halliday or Janet Evanovich. It really was a cute story. The good: Fun whodunit with several arcs that kept me guessing and a likable main character. The meh: Amber Fox is supposed to be an ex police officer, yet she is fairly inept. But this is chick lit, so most MC's are - it adds humor and I get it. The bad (not actually bad; a personal preference): There are a lot of inner musings that can get to be too much (for me), but I read fairly quickly so I do tend to scan over stuff when my attention lags in the least. 


Sibel writes a great story though, so don't miss out on this one... Plus, it's currently FREE on Amazon and Barnes & Nobel - can't beat that for some entertainment.

Description:

"The Fashion Police was runner-up in the Chapter One Promotions Novel Competition 2010 and nominated Best Novel with Romantic Elements 2010 by The Romance Reviews. It is a screwball comedy-mystery, combining murder and mayhem with romance and chick-lit.

Amber Fox has been making too many mistakes lately and something's got to give...

For starters, Amber accidentally shoots Chief Inspector Janice Skipper and gets thrown off the police force. The only one who knows the truth about the incident is Amber, but no one will believe her.

After accepting a job as an insurance investigator from her ex-fiancé, Brad Beckett, it turns out that Brad thinks they've still got unfinished business and the job description includes sexual favours that come with a price.

When fashion designer, Umberto Fandango, goes missing, Amber becomes embroiled in a complicated case. But Amber's arch-enemy, Chief Inspector Skipper, is also investigating his disappearance, and it's a race against time for Amber to solve the mystery before Skipper does and get her old job back. And just when Amber thinks things can't get any worse, she's being stalked by some crazy mobsters.

Who is Umberto Fandango? Is he dead? And can Amber stay one step ahead and stay alive?"


Happy Reading!

~Heidi

**Disclaimer: I am not a professional literary reviewer. I am not being paid or otherwise compensated for this unsolicited review. The opinions stated here are mine alone.