Entrelac Books

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What is Entrelac knitting? How to Entrelac Knitting?

The books will guide you through the steps, skills, and concepts necessary for mastering entrelac stitching so you can add this skill to others, and use it in your own designs

1. The title of this book is Enjoy Entrelac Knitting and it was written by Brenda Horne. This books publish date is November 1993.

2. Entree to Entrelac by Gwen Bortner .

This is a reference book for knitters not only interested in learning about entrelac, but in learning more about knitting.
Projects include scarves, bags, mittens, slipper socks, hats, and other garments, all worked in a wide range of yarn types.

Following picture quotes from Entree to Entrelac by Gwen Bortner .

3. Entrelac by Rosemary Drysdale

The beginning sections contain extensive tutorials to teach you the basic techniques. In the chapters that follow, you will learn how experimenting with different stitch patterns, colors and yarn types can completely change the look of your entrelac. The book contains160 pages and hardcover

 In Chapter 1, learn the basics of Entrelac knitting with step-by-step well written instructions with photographs as guides.
    In Chapter 2, you will put those instructions to use with over 50 pages of swatches using the “swatch glossary”.  You will learn how to incorporate many facets of common stitch patterns to create designs with texture and interest.
    In Chapter 3 you can start knitting and choose from 25 gorgeous patterns, including an Uptown Poncho, Sassy Socks, Edwardian Cardigan and a Rose Garden Baby Cardi.
    In Chapter 4 learn how to design using Entrelac.  Now that you’ve learned the basics the door is open to create your own designs using this fantastic technique.

    This books also includes an abbreviation glossary and many resources to get you on your way to Entrelac knitting!

View more:
Entrelac Knitting patterns from Entrelac Book by Rosemary

Following picture quotes from .Entrelac by Rosemary Drysdale

Beautiful Entrelac Scarf

Entrelac Bag

Unique Entrelac Blenket

Knitting Books are Suitable for Your Level

Learning to knit ... there are many many places for free on the web that are there just for the searching.
Whatever your level of knitting is, i hope i can help you find out the books to suit your personal tastes.

Book for a beginner. If you'd like view specific, please click title. Free for all.






SIN TITULO

  Dictionnaire Harmomy Point de tricot vol.1

  
Knit Basic 125 Techniques

  



One Skein Wonders






Advanced knitting books

Knitted Lace of Estonia

 Victorian Lace Today

 Knitted Flowers
  

25 bags to knit
  

 2008Let's Knit Series_NV4376

 Книги. 20 Compagnos extraordinaries a tricoter

 FairyTale_Knits

  



Japan. Vivian Hoxbro. Advanced Domino-Knittin

 sandnes tilbehor 12

"Exit the Actress" Review

"Exit the Actress"
by Priya Parmar

Publisher: Touchstone
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

While selling oranges in the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, sweet and sprightly Ellen "Nell" Gwyn impresses the theater’s proprietors with a wit and sparkle that belie her youth and poverty. She quickly earns a place in the company, narrowly avoiding the life of prostitution to which her sister has already succumbed. As her roles evolve from supporting to starring, the scope of her life broadens as well. Soon Ellen is dressed in the finest fashions, charming the theatrical, literary, and royal luminaries of Restoration England. Ellen grows up on the stage, experiencing first love and heartbreak and eventually becoming the mistress of Charles II. Despite his reputation as a libertine, Ellen wholly captures his heart—and he hers—but even the most powerful love isn’t enough to stave off the gossip and bitter court politics that accompany a royal romance. Telling the story through a collection of vibrant seventeenth-century voices ranging from Ellen’s diary to playbills, letters, gossip columns, and home remedies, Priya Parmar brings to life the story of an endearing and delightful heroine.

My Review:

I've been very intrigued by Nell Gwynne for some time and this book was a really enjoyable read about her life. The "cast" is full of colorful characters. It's difficult sometimes so read books and watch movies about historical figures because each author puts their own spin on their personality. I really liked Parmar's vision of Nell/Ellen, I thought she treated her with dignity and respect, in spite of her being most famous for being a mistress.


I thought the journal format would be awkward at first, but I found it made the book move really quickly. I loved the "Ambrose Rose" articles (even though I was wrong about his identity!) but I found the letters often unnecessary. I liked that they tied King Charles into the story from the beginning, but they seemed irrelevant to me.


What I liked best about this book is that it made me think, both about Ellen, and myself. It made me want to research even more about Ellen and her contemporaries, and see for myself what's fact and what's fiction. It also made me think about what I would have done in her shoes. I don't agree with some of her choices, so it's interesting to think about what I would have done differently.


I have such a soft spot for Charles Hart, Ellen's first lover. I felt like Ellen was pretty hard on him and he was so good to her and her family as well. Sure, he was sulky and jealous, but who wouldn't be when they knew their lover didn't love them anymore? One of the kickers for me was when Hart was taking Ellen and her family to his country house to escape the plague. People were beating on the windows begging to go with them, but Hart wouldn't let them add another person because of the danger of being infected. Ellen knew she and her family would be out there begging if not for Hart. I feel like this was supposed to make Hart look mean but really wasn't he just protecting them from the disease wiping out most of London? Ellen had a way of not appreciating what she had. She also mooned about later in the story saying she wanted only one man who would love her. But I feel like she didn't want that when she had it with Hart. 


The supporting cast was great in this book, especially Teddy. At first I thought he was going to be written as some kind of caricature of a man who was famous for playing women onstage. But I quickly realized Teddy wasn't a caricature or a mockery at all, but a sweet, caring friend to Ellen, who was always there when she needed him.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5 
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

 
Bottom Line: This is a very enjoyable book. the characters come to life and are lovingly written. And most importantly, it makes you think.

"Kat, Incorrigible" Review

"Kat, Incorrigible"
by Stephanie Burgis

Publisher: Atheneum
Release Date: April 5, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Twelve-year-old Kat Stephenson may be the despair of her social-climbing Step-Mama, but she was born to be a magical Guardian and protector of Society--if she can ever find true acceptance in the secret Order that expelled her own mother. She’s ready to turn the hidebound Order of the Guardians inside-out, whether the older members like it or not. And in a society where magic is the greatest scandal of all, Kat is determined to use all her powers to help her three older siblings--saintly Elissa, practicing-witch Angeline, and hopelessly foolish Charles--find their own true loves, even if she has to turn highwayman, battle wild magic, and confront real ghosts along the way!

My Review: 

I remember wanting to read this one under it's original title "A Most Improper Magick." As a huge fan of historical romance, I thought it was great fun to see the Regency Era with it's ballrooms, carriages, and adorable suitors, from the eyes of a twelve year old.


There was a slight Cinderella slant to the story, with Kat's at times annoying two sisters, and her almost evil stepmama. I think this element will greatly appeal to younger girls. Sometimes the magical element seemed a little overdone and slightly confusing, but I liked the general idea of Kat having magical powers.


The two boys who Kat encourages to court her sisters are just too adorable for words. Mr. Carlyle was especially cute as a love potion victim. And Kat's exasperation with Mr. Collingswood's various shortcomings was quite entertaining. 


Kat was a super heroine and she had so much self-confidence! She was so confident and sure of herself that it was a little funny sometimes, but still, I think this is a fantastic trait to nurture in girls that age. Kat knows what she wants and she doesn't even think twice before going after it.


The door is wide open for a sequel, I can't imagine what Kat will be up to next! 



Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5 
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5 (Kat's sisters)
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This is a fun historical romp that is perfect for middle grade girls and I think older fans of Regency book will get a kick out of Kat's story too.

 

"Get Energy!" Review

"Get Energy"
by Denise Austin

Publisher: Center Street
Release Date: Jan 7, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:


With busy schedules, demanding careers, and little time, many of us battle just to stay awake. But energy is something that is in our control, even when time is short. Now 50 years young, fitness guru Denise Austin shows readers how to super-charge their lives, using her innovative lifestyle plan. She eats the right foods at the right time of day. She uses the power of stretching and breathing to feed her body with energy-enhancing oxygen. She uses mini-workouts to get energy even on her busiest days—and now you can too!
Denise shows how simple changes can add up to increased energy levels throughout the day. From the foods they consume to the way they sit in their chairs, readers won't believe how Denise's quick and easy plan will dramatically increase their energy levels. In as little as a week, results will be felt: radiant skin, more restful sleep, and a sharper mind...so follow Denise Austin and prepare for a fitness wake-up call!

My Review:

I thought the author made some really good points and she had a great positive attitude. The book was set up with an intro and then a quiz to determine what aspects of your life are energy-deprived. Then you can flip to specific chapters to learn how to get energy in the areas of life that you need it most.

The tips and tricks aren't  physically hard, but it's hard to make lifestyle changes. The workout moves and stretches aren't difficult either, they are things that people most levels of fitness can do. I like her ideas for mini stretches throughout the day, and yes, she shows you how to do them.  her meal and snack ideas are simple and do-able. No foods you've never heard of, three hour prep times, or complicated recipes. The great thing about the book is that everything is do-able. It's not a heard core diet or work out book.

Austin feels that if we're always running around,  working, and doing chores and we never take even a few minutes for ourselves, our energy is always going to be zapped. I love that she tells us to take time out for joy. Whether it's talking to friends, taking a walk, or ice cream with your kids, we all need to treat ourselves to recharge our energy.

Sometimes, the book becomes a little repetitive, almost like she had to fill a certain number of pages. But the basic ideas are great. Even if I only take a few this way from the book and try to implement them, I think I will see an improvement in my energy level.


Bottom Line: Great advice delivered with a positive attitude and kindness.

"To Defy a King" Review

"To Defy a King"
by Elizabeth Chadwick

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
Release Date: Mar 1, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

A story of huge emotional power set against the road to Magna Carta and the fight to bring a tyrant king to heel.The privileged daughter of one of the most powerful men in England, Mahelt Marshal's life changes dramatically when her father is suspected by King John. Her brothers become hostages and Mahelt is married to Hugh Bigod, heir to the earldom of Norfolk. Adapting to her new life is hard, but Mahelt comes to love Hugh deeply; however, defying her father-in-law brings disgrace and heartbreak. When King John sets out to subdue the Bigods, Mahelt faces a heartbreaking battle, fearing neither she, nor her marriage, is likely to survive the outcome . . .

My Review:

Once again, Elizabeth Chadwick perfectly blends together a well-researched historical saga with a tender, caring romance. Her characters are well-drafted and I love the glimpses at daily medieval life alongside the sweeping major battles.

For having an arranged marriage, I'd say Mahelt got extremely lucky! You couldn't ask for a better husband than Hugh. Strong, jaw-droppingly handsome, a great father, and always fighting for what's right-those are just a few of his qualities. Hugh never tried to reign Mahelt in or dampen her wild spirit and I loved that about him. Did I mention how handsome he was?

There was one thing about the book that upset me though. I absolutely loved the previous book, "For the King's Favor" and I completely fell in love with Roger Bigod along with Ida. Roger and Ida are Hugh's parents and I was looking forward to seeing them again. I fully understand Roger's conflict with Mahelt, and even enjoyed it, because they were such opposites. Mahelt was so wild and Roger so by-the-book, it was fun to watch them butt heads as they became family. However, I didn't like the portrayal of Roger's relationship with his wife at all. It's disheartening as a reader to get so attached to characters and see them have their happily ever after, only to see it shattered in the next book. It makes me wary that next time Hugh will be made out to be the bad guy and stop caring about Mahelt, even though he was so wonderful in this book.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5 
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 3/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: I really enjoyed this historical saga, even though some of my old favorites from the series weren't portrayed as I'd hoped.

 

"Madame Tussaud" Review

"Madame Tussaud"
by Michelle Moran

Publisher: Crown
Release Date: Feb 15, 2011

Source: ARC sent by the author

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

In this deft historical novel, Madame Tussaud (1761-1850) escapes the pages of trivia quizzes to become a real person far more arresting than even her waxwork sculptures. Who among us knew, for instance, that she moved freely through the royal court of Louis XVI, only to become a prisoner of the Reign of Terror? Her head was shaven for guillotining, but she escaped execution, though she was forced to make death masks for prominent victims. Novelist Michelle Moran covers this breathtaking period without losing the thread of its subject's singular story.

My Review:

"Madame Tussaud" is another richly detailed historical epic from Michelle Moran. The author really knows how to transport the reader to another time and place. I could just see Marie Antionette's ornate gowns and I felt as if I were walking through Tussaud's carefully made wax tableaus. The writing is beautiful and Moran doesn't miss a single detail. The writing is never dry and the dialogue has a modern sensibility.



With Moran's previous book, "Cleopatra's Daughter" being one of my favorite books, I can't help but compare the two. This one didn't live up to Cleopatra Selene's story for me. Tussaud's story didn't seem as personal, the politics seemed to engulf the personal story. The violence and tragedy were overwhelming to me in this book. The time period didn't work quite as well for me, either. Maybe the biggest problem was that I loved the other book so much.



I would whole-heartedly recommend this to readers who are interested in the French Revolution. For the rest of us, and for the squeamish ones, it might be a little too bloody and political. But for those wanting to learn about the era, you'll get to meet most of the key political players and see many historic events unfold first hand. 



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: Michelle Moran continues to be one of my favorite authors and I think historical fiction readers who like a dose of politics with their stories are going to love Tussaud's story.

"Falling Under" Review

"Falling Under"
by Gwen Hayes

Publisher: New American Library
Release Date: March 1, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul.

My Review:

I really couldn't help but compare this one to some other really popular teen paranormals, especially "Twilight", "Fallen", and "Hush Hush." I mostly saw the similarities in how the lead characters were portrayed. Haden really wasn't nice to Theia in that he always tired to keep her off-balance. Theia never knew if Haden hated her or loved her. Theia came across as weak a lot of the time, unfortunately.

I have to mention that I loved Theia's friend, Ame. She's a bubbly, smiling girl who likes goth styles but hates black so she wears her goth gear in bright colors. What's not to love about a character like that? I also really liked Theia's friend Donny's boyfriend, Gabe.  He was a total sweetheart and Theia even admitted once that she should be into a guy like Gabe instead of one who makes her cry all the time. At least she's aware of it. 


The underworld was written really well and I liked the dream scenes early in the book. I really enjoyed the gothic feel of the book. This book is dark, but not in a depressing way, in a creepy, spooky way. I kind of liked the creepy, ghoulish element of the book. It has a much more sinister tone than other YA. 


This book was a little more mature than a lot of YA titles. I'm not saying it should be toned down or anything, but I personally wouldn't loan this one to my 15 year old cousin like I do with a lot of my YA books. 



Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: I recommend this book to fans of "Twilight", "Fallen", and "Hush Hush", I think those readers will love this book.

"Moonstruck Madness" Review

"Moonstruck Madness"
by Laurie McBain

Publisher: Sourcebooks
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011 (first published 1977)

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

She's one thing by day, something else altogether by night...

After escaping the slaughter of her clan at a young age, Scottish noblewoman Sabrina Verrick provides for her siblings by living a double life, until the night she encounters the Duke, and her secret and all she holds dear is threatened...

He's so disillusioned, he's completely vulnerable...

With his inheritance at stake, Lucien, Duke of Camareigh, sets a trap for the Scottish beauty with the piercing violet eyes, never imagining what will happen when the trap is sprung...

As their lives become irreversibly entangled, Lucien and Sabrina become each other's biggest threat, as well as their only salvation...

My Review: 

This book was originally written in 1977, and wow, have times changed for historical romances! And boy am I glad!

Lucien is not the type of hero who should be put on a pedestal. Most of the bad things that happen to our heroine are his fault, but he wants to be praised when he fixes them again. The book timeline goes a little like this: fight (and we're talking Ronnie and Sammi on Jersey Shore style fighting, not playful banter) jump into bed, fight, jump into bed, repeat. This style of story just isn't for me. I understand that a lot of readers are into alpha males, even though I'm not, but Lucien is another breed altogether.

The part of the book where Sabrina has amnesia and actually believed she was in love with Lucien was my favorite part. This was a happy, loving romance! But of course, it was based on forgetting all the unforgivable, deal-breaking things that Lucien had done. 

 
Main Characters: 2/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 3/5
Romance: 1/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This book was definitely written in a stylized way, that I really don't see used any more. I'm sure there are readers who like to read about this rough sort of love, but it's not for me. This book made me appreciate the world of today's historical romances even more!

Since the book was published in 1977, I wanted to post the original cover: 
(cover pic from goodreads)

I adore this cover!! I love this illustration style, and I can't resist a book with a horse on the cover. I love the gothic feel, like the heroine is going to meet a handsome heroic stranger on a dark spooky night. I'm not sure this is really an accurate portrayal of the story inside the book, but I'd definitely pick this one up.

"Fallen Grace" Review

"Fallen Grace"
by Mary Hooper

Publisher: Bloomsbury
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011

Source: ARC sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Life has been nothing but unfair to Grace Parkes and her sister. Penniless, the two orphans manage to stay alive—but only barely, like so many on the streets of Victorian London. And Grace must bear a greater heartbreak, having become pregnant from terrible circumstances and then given birth to a stillborn baby. But the infant's death sets Grace on a new path, bringing her into contact with people who hold both riches and power. A great fraud has been perpetrated on young Grace and her sister, and they are the secret recipients of a most unusual legacy—if only they can find the means to claim it. Mary Hooper's latest offers Dickensian social commentary, as well as malicious fraud, mysterious secrets, and a riveting read.

My Review:

Poor Grace and Lily have been through so much! Every horrid thing that could possibly happen to them does happen. They are orphans, they are both abused by a benefactor at their workhouse, Grace become pregnant, and her baby dies. And these things all happen at the very beginning of the book, so you can only imagine how hard times become as the story moves on. The story never has a dull moment it hops right along from one scary adventure to the next.
 
I was most intrigued by Grace's work at the Unwins. The Unwins were in the funeral business, and wow was that a shady business in Victorian London. This book was a real eye opener to how much these business took advantage of those were mourning and in an emotionally weak place. All of the 'neccessities' of funerals were invented in order to make more money. Grace herself worked as a mute. What is a funeral mute, you ask? She stands there and looks spooky, sad, and beautiful to add atmosphere to a rich person's funeral. Can you get any more creepy!? It's really sad the lengths that people like the Unwins went to in order to prey on grieving families.

Grace truly is an admirable character.  She perseveres through all of these hardships and survives with her values and morals intact. Her hardships have toughened her up, but they haven't broken her down. And through it all she takes constant care of her sister, too.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 3/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line:This book is a tale of hardship, but it's a story you won't soon forget.  

"Mad Love" Review and Blog Tour

"Mad Love"
by Suzanne Selfors

Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Jan 4, 2011
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

When you're the daughter of the bestselling Queen of Romance, life should be pretty good. But 16-year-old Alice Amorous has been living a lie ever since her mother was secretly hospitalized for mental illness. After putting on a brave front for months, time is running out. The next book is overdue, and the Queen can't write it. Alice needs a story for her mother—and she needs one fast.

That's when she meets Errol, a strange boy who claims to be Cupid, who insists that Alice write about the greatest love story in history: his tragic relationship with Psyche. As Alice begins to hear Errol's voice in her head and see things she can't explain, she must face the truth—that she's either inherited her mother's madness, or Errol is for real.

My Review: 

This fantasy reminded me a lot of one of my favorite movies, "Don Juan DeMarco." As in the movie, a troubled legendary character comes to life seeking help from the main character, but really ends up helping the main character even more.

Errol, aka Eros, aka Cupid, was just too lovable. Sure he had a bad boy vibe that I rarely fall for, but he was just so tragic, I really wanted to help him. I loved Alice's relationship with Errol, it wasn't romantic, but there was chemistry bubbling under the surface. It was great to see how complex their friendship was and how much they cared about each other even though they weren't in love.

Tony couldn't be any more of my type of guy. A super hot, sweet guy, and he has glasses! The jealousy between Tony and Errol was cute and never over the top. I loved that ultimately he understood Alice's friendship with Errol and never got possessive or creepy.

Alice was a great lead character and she was so well written that you could really understand her feelings about protecting her mother and having to hold it all together. But she was never hopelessly alone because she always had the support of her neighbors who were basically her family.

I love a unique story and this one really fits the bill. The author knows how to make the fantasy world of Cupid believable while still dealing with real world problems and issues.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 3/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line:  I loved this story and the characters really made this book a keeper for me.

"My Love, My Enemy" Review

"My Love, My Enemy"
by Jan Cox Speas

Publisher: Sourcebooks
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011 (first published 1961)

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Played against the exciting background of the War of 1812, My Love, My Enemy ranges in colorful setting from Annapolis and Washington to Bermuda, Europe and the high seas...and has for its central character a most appealing and impulsive heroine.

The trouble started with Page Bradley's determination to risk the British blockade and steal a ride aboard her father's boat to Annapolis. Once in town, she could hardly have stood quietly by while a mob of angry seamen prepared to lynch the handsome young Englishman. It was only natural to intervene, claiming the stranger as an expected guest of her father.

Perhaps all still would have been well if, on its return home, the Bradley sloop had not been captured by a British frigate. It was small consolation then for Page to learn that the man she had rescued was not only a nobleman, Lord Hazard, but a possible English spy.

In the following months Page more than satisfied her taste for adventure. When she finally found herself trapped aboard a warlike vessel, bound for a distant foreign shore, and in love with one of the enemy, she had ample reason to regret her recklessness. . .

My Review: 


Fans of adventure on the high seas are going to love this one. The romance is overshadowed just a bit by the adventure, but the snippets we get of the romance are quite good. Sometimes I wanted more of the romance or social interaction of all of the great characters instead of discussion of war strategies though. 


Considering the book was originally written in 1961, I didn't feel like the book seemed dated at all. I was worried that there were going to be some gender issues or that the hero was going to be all overbearing alpha-male, but I'm guessing that trend didn't start until the 70s because Hazard was a great guy and I can definitely see how Page fell in love with him.


All of the characters were very relateable and well-written. I loved Hazard's dual sides as both an English gentleman and a 'pirate.' The secondary characters were fun addition s to the story and I liked how the author tied up the ending for everyone involved. Farley, Hazard's valet, especially stood out. He was just too adorable, and great for some much needed comic relief.



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5 (not enough of it!)
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5



Bottom Line:  This was a fun swashbuckling adventure, even though I did want to see a little more of the romance. 

Just for fun, I wanted to post the past covers of this book. 
(pics from goodreads.com)

This is the original 1961 cover from William Morrow & Co.

Actually, I think this cover is adorable and really represents what the book is. A young girl peering over the high seas, because the book really is mostly about Page's journey, with a little romance too. There's also an innocence about the cover that I saw in the book as well.

Next is the 1978 cover from Avon.

While I actually really like this illustration style, the portrayal of Hazard really scares me!! He doesn't ever act so grim and mean! Thank goodness! I don't think Page is quite so submissive to him, either. 

"Etched in Bone" Review

"Etched in Bone"
as Adrian Phoenix

Publisher: Pocket
Release Date: Feb 22, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

SON OF A FALLEN ANGEL. FORGED IN VAMPIRE’S BLOOD. SWORN TO A MORTAL WOMAN. IF DANTE FALLS, THE WORLD FALLS WITH HIM. . . .

THREE LEGACIES ETCHED IN BONE

More beautiful and powerful than any creature the world has ever seen, Dante Baptiste has become the supreme target of the three worlds that spawned him. The mortal agents of the Shadow Branch have tried to control his mind through psychological torture. The vampire elders who guide nightkind society have plotted to use him in their bloodthirsty bid for power. And the Fallen have waited for millennia for Dante to claim his birthright as their Maker. But Dante belongs to no one—except the woman he loves. . . .

ONE PASSION SWORN IN BLOOD

Determined to face the Fallen and the world on his own terms, Dante hopes to piece together his shattered past and claim his future, with FBI agent Heather Wallace at his side. But in Heather’s human family awaits an unexpected enemy. One who could rip Heather from Dante’s heart and fill the holes with bullets. One who could force Dante to choose his darkest destiny—as the Great Destroyer. . . .

My Review:

This Urban Fantasy wasn't really my style, but I thought I'd give it a try anyway. While I'm still not really a fan of the genre, I was able to see both the good and the bad in this story.

I liked the author's voice, it was much more natural than the other Urban Fantasy books that I've read. She wasn't trying so hard to say how hip, cool, and funny her main character was. Heather was much more natural, she just was cool and hip, she didn't have to use forced dialogue to prove it.

I also liked Heather and Dante's ability to speak to each other through their bond. The author was able to do a lot with it. Also, while the emphasis was definitely on the hot, passionate side of their relationship, you could tell they really loved each other too. There were even some tender moments that surprised me.
 
However, I wasn't into all of the violence in the book. That's part of why this isn't the genre for me. A lot of it felt like it was done for shock value. There was a lot of cursing in the book too, many times multiple times on the same page. I'm not against cursing, but this amount was distracting to me. 



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 3/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This was a well written tale for fans of Urban Fantasy, the rest of us may just not get it!

"Jenna & Jonah's Fauxmance" Review

"Jenna & Jonah's Fauxmance"
 by Brendan Halpin and Emily Franklin

Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Fans of romance don't need to look any further than the fauxmance brewing between teen idols Charlie Tracker and Fielding Withers—known on their hit TV show as Jenna and Jonah, next-door neighbors flush with the excitement of first love. But it's their off-screen relationship that has helped cement their fame, as passionate fans follow their every PDA. They grace the covers of magazines week after week. Their fan club has chapters all over the country. The only problem is their off-screen romance is one big publicity stunt, and Charlie and Fielding can't stand to be in the same room. Still, it's a great gig, so even when the cameras stop rolling, the show must go on, and on, and on. . . . Until the pesky paparazzi blow their cover, and Charlie and Fielding must disappear to weather the media storm. It's not until they're far off the grid of the Hollywood circuit that they realize that there's more to each of them than shiny hair and a winning smile.

My Review:

This book was really cute, I couldn't help but think of the tv show, "Sonny with a Chance," with the portrayal of teen stars in love while in the public eye.


The story was told in alternating chapters told from each character's point of view. In the beginning, I found Jonah/Fielding?Aaron much more interesting, but Jenna/Charlie really started to grow on me. I was sympathizing with her by the end of the book.


My favorite part was when they were hiding from the paparazzi at the beach house. I think they really started to realize their true feelings about each other and their careers while in that isolated atmosphere. 


I did like the journey they took with their acting career at the Shakespeare theater. It was great to see them reflect on their past acting on "Jenna & Jonah," as well as see how far they could stretch their acting skills.


There were some really deep one liners in this book. I found myself identifying with a lot of the quotes about love, life and our true selves. 



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 2/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: "Jenna & Jonah's Fauxmance" is a fun Hollywood romp with many tender moments and lots of reflection on life and love.

Free Ebooks for the Weekend!

I found some free ebooks today and wanted to share them with you! Both are available for the Kindle and the Nook. I have both of these books on my (real not virtual) shelf, and have heard nothing but great reviews for them both.

"Talk of the Town" by Lisa Wingate

  

Kindle

Nook

"Fools Rush In" by Janice Thompson

Kindle

Nook

Now you should have some great books to keep you out of trouble this weekend! Enjoy!

"The Mistress' House" Review

"The Mistress' House"
 by Leigh Michaels

Publisher: Sourcebooks
Release Date: Feb 1, 2011

Source: ARC sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:


First in a smart, sexy, Regency romance series intertwining three love stories from an award winning, bestselling author.
A rakish Earl buys a love nest and winds up falling madly in love with and marrying the lady he installs there. Because of its proximity to the Earl, and his rakish reputation, the next two ladies who move into the house after that can't avoid a scandal, but each one is on her way to true love...
 
My Review:

At first, I didn't realize that this book was actually three interconnected short stories instead of one long story. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the author wove the stories together.

I loved the first story about Thorne and Anne. Their affair was fun and tender at the same time. The scenes where they were keeping their affair a secret were really cute to read about. I loved Thorne's lazy confidence and how he really cared about Anne's feelings. I loved Thorne so much in the first story that sometimes I didn't like the way his character and their romance played out in the later two stories.

The second story, about Richard and Felicity was definitely a cute tale. I really liked that Felicity had been in love with Richard's brother. It created jealousy as well a complex feelings toward each other.

The last story, Julian and Georgette's romance, fell a little short for me. I appreciated the unexpected twist, but I just didn't think they had as much spark as the other couples.



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This is a great collection of romances to read when you're in the mood for some fun regency era short stories!

Giveaway and Review: "To Tempt a Rake"

As part of the "To Tempt a Rake" blog tour, I have my review and a giveaway of 3 copies of the book, sponsored by Hachette!

"To Tempt a Rake"
 by Cara Elliott

Publisher: Forever
Release Date: Mar 3, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
 

Summary from Goodreads.com:

Kate Woodbridge has spent most of her life sailing to exotic ports around the globe, acquiring an expertise in botany, along with a few less ladylike skills. So when a deathbed promise to her parents brings her to London to seek reconciliation with her grandfather, the imperious Duke of Cluyne, she feels like a fish out of water. Her outspoken views and fiery temper tend to set off sparks in Society-especially with the rakish Conte of Como.

A devil-may-care rogue, Marco finds the alluring and mysterious Kate a tempting target for his flirtations. But when murder strikes at the duke's country house party he begins to suspect that she's hiding a dark secret. He has his own clandestine reasons for offering to help her prove her innocence . . . And so begins a journey of dangerous deception that leads from England to the glittering ballrooms of Vienna, where Marco and Kate must duel with a deadly villain . . . and their own explosive attraction.

My Review:

I really liked the first two books in this series, but this installment fell a little short for me. I felt like the mystery and intrigue outweighed the romance and character development too much for my liking. I wanted to see more interaction between the two leads. As it was, I didn't feel like their relationship was developed enough to be anything more than lust.

I thought Kate's character was intriguing but I didn't care for Marco. Everyone loves a rake, but Marco was almost sleazy and I didn't buy his reformation. Kate was more complex than Marco and I understood why she tried to remain so tough on the outside. She wanted to be able to let down her guard and let someone help her with her burdens but she just wasn't able to let go.


The author wove a very complex mystery with lots of players, but much more time was spent unraveling the clues than getting to know the characters and why the leads loved each other.


Another aspect of the first two books that I missed was the comedy. I think for someone who enjoys a mystery to be a large part of their historical romance, this book might be a good fit.



Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: I'm still looking forward to more from this author, even though this one fell a little short of her other books for me.

GIVEAWAY RULES:

Hachette books has generously provided three copies of this historical romance for readers of my blog!


All you have to do is follow my blog publicly and leave a comment on this review with your email address!
Please follow publicly or I can't tell that you are following :) Also, if you aren't comfortable leaving your email here, go ahead and leave a comment and then send me an email with your email addy.
 
Extra Entries:

• +1 Tweet this contest (leave link in comment)
• +1 Post link in sidebar of your blog (leave link in comment)

Rules:

• US and Canada only
• No PO Boxes please
• Must be a follower to enter
• Extra entries are optional and can all be left in the same comment
• Leave a comment with your email address
• Books will be mailed out by Hachette
• Ends Thurs Feb 17

Thanks to everyone for entering! Good luck!

Free Ebooks from Sourcebooks: Free Reading Weekend

Sourcebooks is celebrating a "Free Reading Weekend" by offering three popular eBooks for free!  

Sourcebooks will be offering the following books for free until Sunday, Feb 6!

Lydia Bennet’s Story by Jane Odiwe

Her new release Mr. Darcy’s Secret just came out on February 1^st

Love at First Flight by Marie Force

            Her new release Everyone Loves a Hero just came out on February 1^st

The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick

            Her highly anticipated release, To Defy a King will be released March 1^st

Check out this page for links to Kindle, Nook, and iBooks formats! 

I also saw that they are still offering Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble for free!!

Thanks, Sourcebooks!!