Review and Giveaway: Ting Ting Electric Scalp Massager

Sponsored by Tomoson.com
Thanks to MassageTable.net for sponsoring this review/giveaway!


When I received the Ting Ting Electric Scalp Massager, the first thing I noticed was the easy to open packaging. I hate having to fight my way into the hard plastic packaging and I often end up cutting myself on it somehow. The packaging for this scalp massager just popped right open which was a relief. It came with batteries which was convenient. I'll be honest with you, it took me a couple tries to get them in because the massager immediately came on when I put the second battery in and before I could turn it off the batteries shimmied there way out.
I've seen products similar to this in the past in stores, but this is the first time I have actually tried a scalp massager out. I have a habit of rubbing my head (I usually don't even realize I am doing it) and I find it soothing so I figured I would enjoy a product like the Ting Ting.
What I like most about the product is that the legs are adjustable. You can spread them out or group them together...which is also convenient for storing it. The ends of the legs have protective tips so that it isn't sharp. I do think that if the tips were just a bit bigger and more round it would be a little more comfortable. When using the massager you just lower it and slightly twist as you pull up. Easy to use and it really is relaxing to use on your head or joints. I have sinus problems and the glands in my neck swell sometimes and cause me pain. I bunched up the legs on the massager and held it near the swollen glad and it brought me a little bit of relief from the pain for awhile. I have also used it to help with headaches. The scalp massager is a little bit noisy and at first it really bothered me because the point of the product is to soothe, however I'm used to it now and just tune it out. In the instructions it says that five minute sessions work best. I don't think I have actually used it that long before...maybe just 3 minutes at a time. I think the Ting Ting Scalp Massager would make a great stocking stuffer or you could just get one for yourself to help relieve some stress and tension.

*************GIVEAWAY*****************
Open to US only
ends Dec. 8 at 11:59 pm EST

UPDATE: Giveaway is Closed. Winner is Tina Reynolds

leave a comment about the review

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

"No Hope for Gomez" Birthday Party. Win Kindles, iPods, and get free books!

Graham Parke, author ofthe comedy/suspense novel No Hope for Gomez, is having a party celebrating the one year birthday of his book! Read on for more details:

"No Hope for Gomez!" Birthday Party. Win kindles, iPods, and get free books!

“It's the age-old tale: Boy meets girl. Boy stalks girl. Girl already has a stalker. Boy becomes her stalker-stalker.”

It's hard to believe, but it's been a year since I handed in the final proofs for my weird little book ‘No Hope for Gomez!’ To celebrate this, and the fact that it just became a finalist in 2010's Best Book Awards, I decided to throw an international party. As I’ve had a debilitating fear of throwing parties and no-one showing up since early childhood, I’d be more than delighted if you’d come!

Of course, with every cool, international party comes a gift bag. Here's just some of the stuff attendants will get:

• Exclusive short story collection


• No Hope for Gomez: The Lost Chapters


• Making of Gomez: behind the scenes eBook


• Signed hi-res poster + bookplate

(These are all exclusive items and will not be available again)

Additionally, several lucky attendants will win a Kindle or an iPod!

Oh yeah, you can bring as many friends as you like, just don't bring your crazy uncle who drinks too much and then tries to get me to go to the attic with him to see something wonderful. I've fallen for that before and I don't mind telling you, I came away very disappointed!

Find out how to attend HERE.

Book Review: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

The Lost Hero (The Heroes of Olympus, Book 1) by Rick Riordan

• Hardcover: 576 pages
• Publisher: Hyperion Book CH; 1 edition (October 12, 2010)

Amazon Description:

After saving Olympus from the evil Titan lord, Kronos, Percy and friends have rebuilt their beloved Camp Half-Blood, where the next generation of demigods must now prepare for a chilling prophecy of their own:

Seven half-bloods shall answer the call,
To storm or fire the world must fall.
An oath to keep with a final breath,
And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death.

Now, in a brand-new series from blockbuster best-selling author Rick Riordan, fans return to the world of Camp Half-Blood. Here, a new group of heroes will inherit a quest. But to survive the journey, they’ll need the help of some familiar demigods.
***************************

First I must say that the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan is one of my favorite YA series. I've always been interested in mythology and this series pretty much revolves around that. I was so sad when the series ended and thought I wouldn't get to read any more about one of my all time favorite settings, Camp Half-Blood. When I found out about this new series I was ecstatic. Going in to read this book my hopes were high as well as my standards...I was not at all let down. It seems that this story begins not too long after the last Percy Jackson book ends. There are some familiar faces at camp, but the stars of this book are all new. This book is seriously action-packed. Lots of dangerous encounters and deadly situations. Also, readers learn something new about the gods that adds a lot of interest to this series.
The main character, Jason, has amnesia and wakes up in the middle of a field trip. Also on the field trip is a girl, Piper, who he is told is his girlfriend, and Leo, who he is told is his best friend. Shortly after that, their world is turned upside down and it is revealed that they are half bloods. They eventually make their way to camp, only to be sent off on a quest to pretty much save the world. There are some clues to exactly who Jason is and where he comes from that are revealed. Not knowing the whole story about Jason really makes the story intriguing. I am excited to read more in this series to learn about his past.

5/5

WINNERS!!!

My computer has been messed up for a little over a week now so I haven't been able to respond to entries, but I just want to say I loved reading what you are all thankful for. Health, family, new jobs, and books were the majority of answers...all great reasons to be thankful. I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving!

Okay, on to the winners:

The winner of either the Costume Squad mystery shirt or the $15 gift card is:

Marija

The winner of the Gratitude Giveaway is:

WulfLuva

WulfLuva has a great book review site, Shell's Stories.

I will be emailing winners sometime today and they have 48 hours to respond.
I currently have a giveaway for a free pair of prescription glasses, and I will also being having a giveaway from Crazy Dog Tshirts and NachoMama Tees sometime this week as well so stick around and try to win some free stuff :)

Review and Giveaway: EyeBuyDirect.com

I was given the opportunity to review a pair of glasses from EyeBuyDirect.com. They have so many frames to choose from! What really makes this site stand out is that their site is so interactive. They have the Eye Try, which is a way to see how the glasses you like might actually look on you. You just have to upload a photo and choose the glasses you want to try on. It is pretty easy to do and really helped me to narrow my choices down to the pair I ended up liking the best. Another thing I like is that they have pictures of different angles of the glasses and the different color options the frames come in.

Anti-Scratch protection comes free with the glasses (as well as a case and cleaning cloth). I did not get the Thin and Lite lens upgrade ($25), although it is recommended, since it was not included for my review. I was worried I would end up with coke bottle glasses, but it turned out with the style of my glasses it was not noticeable how thick the lenses are and they don't feel heavy either. If the earpieces are thin on the pair you get however, I think it would be wise to get the upgrade. UV Coating ($4.95) and Anti-Reflective Coating ($6.95) is also recommended.


I chose the Armagh frames in black ($24.95). I LOVE these glasses. I never would have chosen them had it not been for the Eye Try, because it is a shape I normally don't like on me. The frames turned out to be a little wider than expected, but it doesn't bother me at all. Also, the frames are a little loose on me, but that will be easily remedied when I go get them adjusted at my optometrist. Ordering the glasses was easy since they have a "How To" on reading your prescription. After I had the frames picked out it took me about 5-10 minutes to finish my order which came to less than $40 including shipping! That is an excellent deal for a pair of glasses. If you don['t have insurance (like me) then this is probably one of the best possible ways to get affordable glasses. Even if you DO have insurance there tend to be a lot of restrictions on when you can get a pair and how much they will cover, so this may be a better option for you to!

Right now EyeBuyDirect.com is having an awesome promotion:

Give your friends and family the gift of vision. EyeBuyDirect Gift Vouchers 50% Off!

Half Off Gift Vouchers at EyeBuyDirect.com - Double The Value!

Buy a $100 voucher for only $50! (other denominations available)

- Send the voucher directly to your loved ones!

- Personalize the message!

- Post on facebook!

- Print and give the voucher in person!

**********GIVEAWAY**********

Winner receives one free pair of prescription glasses (without lens upgrades and excluding designer eyewear and sunglasses)

Open to US and Canada only

ends December 12 at 11:59 pm EST

MANDATORY:
Visit EyeBuyDirect.Com then come back here and leave a comment with the name of your favorite pair of frames

Leave separate comments for each entry
EXTRAS (optional):

+2 Publicly follow my blog via google friend connect (leave two comments)
**UPDATE: Being a public follower means that when I click on your name my blog will be listed under the list of blogs that you follow...if I can't confirm you are a follower this way then you won't get the extra entries for following.

+1 "Like" EyeBuyDirect.Com on Facebook (leave your facebook name)

+1 Follow EyeBuyDirect.Com on twitter AND tweet about the giveaway (you may tweet once per day, leave a direct link to each tweet)

+1 Post your Eye Try photo with your favorite frame on the Wall of Frame (leave a link).
*This cool “Virtual Dressing” room feature is a great help to customers that want to try on something before they buy it, and the Wall-Of-Frame is where customers can share tips and comment on each others photos.*

+1 Post a comment on the Wall of Frame-Help other visitors choose which frames suit them best!

Product Review and Discount: Just Eyewear

We sell prescription glasses. We have over 900 different styles to choose from, including big plastic frames, flex titanium, progressive lenses, Transitions, you name it. Top notch quality, made here in the United States. If you don't wear glasses but would like a pair with clear lenses, we can do that too. Check us out here: http://www.justeyewear.com

When I was given the opportunity to review a pair of glasses up to $50 from Just Eyewear, I jumped at the chance. I don't have insurance so I have not had new glasses for 7-8 years. After the cost of an eye exam ($110), and the cost of contacts (which is what I primarily wear), I can't afford to shell out more money for frames and lenses (which would cost hundreds of dollars). I had no idea all this time that I could buy glasses online for so cheap! My glasses came to less than $50. From the time I ordered the glasses to the time I received them was approximately 2 weeks. Not bad! I think I remember it taking at least a week to get glasses from my eye doctor so waiting just a little longer is worth it when you are only paying $50.

I picked out the MP466 frames ($29) and chose them in black/lime green. Included free with orders is a hard case, UV protective coating, single vision lenses, and scratch resistant coating. I had enough to upgrade to the thin polycarbonate lenses ($19) which is recommended so the lenses aren't so thick and heavy. Adding anti reflective coating ($29) is recommended too (although I chose not to get it), especially for driving at night or if you spend a lot of time at the computer. They also have other upgrades such as tinted lenses and transition lenses.

Ordering was a breeze, especially with the guide they have on how to read your prescription. I actually didn't even realize I had an astigmatism until I read the guide because my optometrist never told me. They also tell you how to measure your PD (Pupillary Distance), which is pretty helpful.

What I didn't like was that it didn't give you different views of the actual glasses on the site...it gives the measurements, but it is just not the same as seeing it. They also have different color options for some glasses (including the pair I picked out) but they don't show what the different colors look like. My black/lime green glasses turned out to be more like black/yellow.I was pretty disappointed with that (I hate yellow), but the shape of the glasses turned out okay and the quality of the glasses is very nice. The glasses also fit perfectly, with no adjustments needed. Overall I would say the pros definitely outweigh the cons, especially when you can't go out and drop hundreds of dollars on glasses.

My glasses (see! yellow)

Just Eyewear sent me a coupon code for my readers!
The code is THROUTHEHAZE and is good for 5% off your entire order!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Book Review: One Night in Scotland by Karen Hawkins

One Night in Scotland (Hurst Amulet, Book 1) by Karen Hawkins

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Pocket Star; Original edition (November 23, 2010)

Goodreads Description:

New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins begins a sparkling new series with this thrilling tale of a desperate beauty on an urgent quest, a dark earl scarred by his beastly past—and the ancient treasure that binds their fates.

A mysterious abductor . . . Someone is holding her brother prisoner in exchange for a gold-and-onyx box covered in mysterious runes, so Mary Hurst boldly sets out from the family vicarage to find the priceless artifact. But the man who possesses it, Angus Hay, the Earl of Erroll, is less than sympathetic to her plight.

A forbidding stranger . . . Himself a prisoner of his dark past, Angus refuses to yield the box—or allow Mary to leave! Suspicious of the alluring lass’s mission, he vows to wrest a confession from her, but unearths a fiery temper and a will as strong as his own.

An unbreakable curse . . . Passion flares between them, but now there is more at stake: an unknown enemy is hunting down the precious box, and will stop at nothing. Risking all for love, Angus must solve the mystery behind the runes . . . and trust the only woman who can awaken his forgotten heart.

**************************************

Mary's brother, an adventurer and Egyptologist, is being held captive in Egypt until he returns an artifact he bought and sent to a colleague in Scotland. Mary sets out to retrieve the object to save her brother, but the Earl of Erroll (the colleague who possesses the artifact), does not trust her and is unwilling to just give her the artifact until he has proof that she is who she says she is.

My favorite character by far is Mary. She has a lot of spunk and maintains cool and collected at times when many people would break down. Refusing to be cowed by a domineering man, she stood her ground and I can definitely admire that in this character.

I really enjoyed the plot from start to finish. It felt just a little like Beauty and the Beast to be honest with you. However, the one love scene was extremely anti-climactic and the ending felt a bit rushed. I understand this is the beginning of the series so not every question gets answered, but I hope that we get to read more about the earl and Mary because the story ended a little abruptly and I want to know how things end up for them. I would also love to learn more about the earl's past, specifically about the fire and his wife. I feel like maybe there was foul play or something.

This is a series I will continue to read. Also, apparently some characters from this series were also in some of the books from the Maclean Curse series so you might want to check that out as well...I know I will.

3.5/5

I recieved this book from the publisher for review. Any opinions expressed are my own.

Review & Giveaway: Costume Squad

I recently received a shirt to review for Costume Squad, which is a great site that sells costumes and funny t shirts. I am a fan of the show How I Met Your Mother so I picked out the Hoser Hut shirt to review. Here is the description of the shirt from the site:

Oh Canada! The only place more Canadian than the Hoser Hut (according to Barney Stinson) is Tim Hortons. Wear Canadian pride on your hot self with our How I Met Your Mother Hoser Hut shirt. Have a Robin Sparkles kind of day and go crush some meathead at the bar or go on a bender with the Womens Curling team. Be Canadian-American in the Hoser Hut shirt today!

I am very impressed with the quality of the shirt. It isn't some cheap shirt that will get holes in it after a few wears. It is also nice and soft and the graphic on the shirt does not make the shirt uncomfortable or stiff feeling at all. I'm really happy with what I picked out and I think the shirt is pretty hilarious.

*****************GIVEAWAY*****************

Costume Squad is offering one of my readers the chance to win either:

A Free Mystery Tee (in Men's size) OR a Free $15 Gift Card

Please leave separate comments for each entry (if you do any entry with +2 that means leave 2 separate comments)

MANDATORY:

+1 Leave a comment with your favorite item from Costume Squad

EXTRAS (optional):

+2 Follow my blog (publicly) on Google Friend Connect

+2 tweet this giveaway and leave the direct link (ONCE only)

+1 "Like" Costume Squad on Facebook (leave first name and last initial in comment)

+1 Post a comment on their Facebook page telling Costume Squad what your favorite tee is or asking them a question about the shirts (leave first name and last initial in comment)

+1 "Like" or "Share" one of the products on their website. The buttons for these are on all product detail pages, above the main image

Giveaway ends Sunday November 28 at 11:59 pm EST.
I will notify the winner by email and announce it on my blog as well.

*open to US only
*Winners cannot have won a shirt from Crazy Dog Shirts, Nacho Mama Tees, or Costume Squad or have been sent a shirt for promotional purposes in the last 90 days or own a blog of their own

I received a shirt for review. Any opinions expressed are my own.

Product Review: Skillet Bacon Jam

First let me start this review by saying I LOVE bacon. I mean...I really love it. I can eat a whole pack of bacon to myself...I know this because I did it once (and felt deep deep shame, and thought I was going to have a heart attack). So while some might be turned off by something called Bacon Jam, my first reaction when I received the jar was to go all Golem and hiss "my preciouuuuuus" while my family stared at me like I finally lost it. Although it is called Bacon Jam I think it is more fair to call it a spread, but I think calling it Bacon Jam makes it more interesting. Basically it is niman ranch bacon rendered down with onions, basalmic, and spices into a delicious smoky and sweet spread. The Bacon Jam is really packed with flavor so a little bit goes a long way in my opinion. Also, on the jar it says that it tastes best if it is warmed a little. I put some on a biscuit fresh from the oven and I was in bacon heaven. There are tons of ways to enjoy Bacon Jam, like on a burger, a grilled cheese, or on a sandwich with lettuce and tomato (a BJLT). If you like trying different spreads or just love bacon I think this is a product you would enjoy.

More information is available at www.skilletbaconjam.com or contact at eat@skilletstreetfood.com

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Gratitude Giveaway!

I am participating in the Gratitude Giveaway hop this year. There will be ONE winner and they will get to choose ONE of the following ARCs:

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

****UPDATE****
I have now added an ARC of Personal Demons by Lisa DesRochers as a choice as well

ENTRY RULES

Mandatory:

Since Thanksgiving is coming up and this is a Gratitude giveaway, leave a comment telling me something you are thankful for.

Optional:

+1 New PUBLIC follower in Google Friend Connect (leave follower name in comment)
+2 Old PUBLIC follower in Google Friend Connect (leave follower name in comment)

Please leave all entries in ONE comment. You must complete the mandatory entry or you will be disqualified.

Giveaway ends Sunday November 28th at 11:59 pm EST
US ONLY

Waiting on Wednesday #20

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Halfway Hexed (A Southern Witch Novel, Book 3) by Kimberly Frost

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Berkley Trade (February 1, 2011)

Amazon Description:

New witch Tammy Jo Trask has a whole town full of trouble, in the latest from the national bestselling author of Barely Bewitched.

First, there are the local residents who form a scripture-spouting posse and kidnap Tammy to "defend" Duvall, Texas, against witchcraft. Next, someone saddles her with a secret package chock full of dangerous visions, just as the president of WAM-the World Association of Magic- arrives with his entourage to investigate her. And who worse to examine Tammy's entanglement with off-limits and drop-dead gorgeous wizard Bryn Lyons than his ex-girlfriend? Not to mention that the clash between the locals and the magical visitors leads to a series of unnatural disasters that may doom them all.

While the fate of the town hangs in the balance, one thing's certain: this would-be witch is ready to rumble, Texas style.

CSN Stores

Every time I visit CSN Stores online, I find something new like their great assortment of sling backpacks. The prices are affordable and a lot of their stock has free shipping, making it an even better deal. CSN has 200+ online stores so there is something for everyone!

Product Review: SmartMouth Mouthwash

SmartMouth Mouthwash claims that it can give you 12 hours of fresh breath. Hard to believe right? Well I have been using this mouthwash for 4 days now and I can honestly say I am floored. It really does give you fresh breath for an extremely long period of time. I would say right now that for me it works for about 8 hours...so not quite 12 hours but it does say on the box that to achieve maximum results the mouthwash needs to be used twice daily for 1-2 weeks. Even after eating I feel like my breath is still fresh. Of course after eating onions or garlic though it is recommended to re-rinse. Oh, and in the morning when I wake up I can tell my morning breath is not so bad (I still wouldn't get up in someone's face, but it is a definite improvement).

I have never liked using mouthwash. Regular mouthwash contains alcohol which dries out your mouth and causes bad breath. So it doesn't really help at all, it actually makes it worse in my opinion. That is one of the best things about SmartMouth Mouthwash...no alcohol! SmartMouth Mouthwash uses a patented zinc-ion technology to eliminate and prevent bad breath.

There are two bottles, and when you want to use the mouthwash you pump equal amounts of each liquid into the cup right before using to activate the ingredients. You then swish it around for 30-60 seconds and gargle with it a bit before spitting it out. SmartMouth Mouthwash comes in two flavors, Fresh Mint and Fresh Cinnamon. I received the Fresh Mint and I love the taste! Normally I can't stand minty things but it is such a mild and pleasant flavor.

SmartMouth Mouthwash can be found in a lot of stores (including places like Walmart, Target, and CVS). To find a location where it is sold go HERE

Head over to the Smartmouth Mouthwash site to get a coupon for $2.00 off any mouthwash or toothpaste at participating retailers.

**I was given the opportunity to review this product because of my membership at The Product Review Place.

Chronicle Books Happy Haul-idays Giveaway

Chronicle Books is having a Haul-idays celebration and giving away $500 worth of books to one blogger and one commenter! The blogger who wins will get the list they blogged about and a commenter on the winning post will win the list as well! For more info about this giveaway, go HERE. Don't forget to comment on this post!

• Every Day's a Holiday: Year-Round Crafting with Kids by Heidi Kenney $22.50
• Witch Craft: Wicked Accessories, Spellbinding Jewelry, Creepy-Cute Toys and More By Margaret McGuire, Alicia Kachmar$14.95
• Knit Knack Kit by Kris Percival $22.95
• Subversive Cross Stitch by Julie Jackson $14.95
• Pretty in Punk by Alyce Benevides and Jaqueline Milles $19.95
• Embroidered Effects by Jenny Hart $24.95
• Booze Cakes by Krystina Castella and Terry Lee Stone $16.95
• I am 8-Bit by John M. Gibson $22.95
• The Grateful Dead Scrapbook by Ben Fong-Torres $40.00
• Margarita Mama by Alyssa D. Gusenoff $12.95
• The Best Casserole Book Ever by Beatrice Ojakangas $24.95
• Puff by Martha Holmberg $19.95
• Slow Cooker: The Best Cook Book Ever by Diane Phillips $24.95
• Cat Cora's Kitchen by Cat Cora $22.95
• From Our House to Your by Joyce Goldstein $19.95
• Sublime Stitching by Jenny Hart $19.95
• Softies by Therese Laskey $19.95
• Knitted Icons by Carol Meldrum $15.95
• Field Guide to Knitting by Jackie Pawlowski $15.95
• Creepy Cute Crochet by Christen Haden $14.95
• Picture Perfect Knits by Laura Birek $19.95
• Applique Your Way by Kayte Terry $19.95
• Stencil 101 Decor by Ed Roth $24.95
• Fast Breads by Elinor Kilvans $19.95
  

Book Review: Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers

Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Tor Teen; First Edition edition (September 14, 2010)

Goodreads Description:

Frannie Cavanaugh is a good Catholic girl with a bit of a wicked streak. She's spent years keeping everyone at a distance—even her closest friends—and it seems her senior year will be more of the same...until Luc Cain enrolls in her class. No one knows where he came from, but Frannie can't seem to stay away from him. What she doesn't know is that Luc works in Acquisitions—for Hell—and she possesses a unique skill set that has the King of Hell tingling with anticipation. All Luc has to do is get her to sin, and he’s as tempting as they come. Frannie doesn’t stand a chance.

Unfortunately for Luc, Heaven has other plans, and the angel, Gabe, is going to do whatever it takes to make sure that Luc doesn’t get what he came for. And it isn't long before they find themselves fighting for more than just her soul.

But if Luc fails, there will be Hell to pay…for all of them.
***************************

Personal Demons is the first book in a trilogy, which is a good thing because I want more! It is basically a race between Heaven and Hell to tag Frannie's soul for their respective sides. Luc is the demon from Hell trying to tempt Frannie to darken her soul enough for Hell and Gabe is the angel trying to protect her. Of course a love triangle ensues which seems to be pretty typical in a lot of YA books, but I thought it was written well and was not annoying like some. The story kept me on my toes a bit and I know that with the way things ended, the next book has potential to be just as awesome as this one. One thing I like about this book is it is written from 2 viewpoints, Frannie and Luc. Honestly, at first when I saw it was written this way I felt some trepidation. I figured it would get annoying switching back and forth but it turned out that was not the case. By switching between characters I feel that I got to know both of them better and understand them. I am definitely Team Luc, but I would have loved to read a little more about Gabe...or even better, read from his point of view. Maybe this will happen in future books. Overall, I loved the characters and enjoyed the story!

5/5

Waiting on Wednesday #19

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Shadowfever (Fever, Book 5) by Karen Marie Moning

• Hardcover: 608 pages
• Publisher: Delacorte Press (January 18, 2011

Goodreads Description:

MacKayla Lane was just a child when she and her sister, Alina were given up for adoption and banished from Ireland forever. Twenty years later, Alina is dead and Mac has returned to the country that expelled them to hunt her sister's murderer. But after discovering that she descends from a bloodline both gifted and cursed, Mac is plunged into a secret history: an ancient conflict between humans and immortals that have lived concealed among us for thousands of years. What follows is a shocking chain of events with devastating consequences, and now Mac struggles to cope with grief, while continuing her mission to acquire and control the Sinsar Dubh--a book of dark, forbidden magic scribed by the mythical Unseelie King that contains the power to create and destroy worlds.

In an epic battle between humans and Fae, the hunter becomes the hunted when the Sinsar Dubh turns on Mac, and begins mowing a deadly path through those she loves. Who can she turn to? Who can she trust? Who is the woman that haunts her dreams? More importantly, who is Mac and what is the destiny she glimpses in the black and crimson designs of an ancient tarot card? From the luxury of the Lord Master's penthouse, to the sordid depths of an Unseelie nightclub, from the erotic bed of her lover, to the terrifying bed of the Unseelie King, Mac's journey will force her to face the truth of her exile, and make a choice that will either save the world...or destroy it

Nimble Zombies??

Did anyone watch last night's episode of The Walking Dead on AMC? I am really loving this show, but what is up with a zombie deftly climbing a fence? I guess I am a bit old school about zombies and think they should only shamble...maybe even shamble quickly (but not run). In this show apparently they can think enough to pick up heavy rocks to pound on glass and even climb some. I asked my friend if the zombies are like that in the graphic novels and he said they aren't. He doesn't mind their new found abilities too much though...he says it amps thing up a bit. I guess I can agree on that some. I just hope they don't take it too far though because zombies should be, ya know, zombie-like.

What are your thoughts on smart zombies? Are you liking the show?

Book Review: Bloodthirsty by Flynn Meaney

Bloodthirsty by Flynn Meaney

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Poppy; Original edition (October 5, 2010)

Amazon Description:

Some vampires are good. Some are evil. Some are faking it to get girls.

Awkward and allergic to the sun, sixteen-year-old Finbar Frame never gets the girl. But when he notices that all the female students at his school are obsessed with a vampire romance novel called Bloodthirsty, Finbar decides to boldly go where no sane guy has gone before-he becomes a vampire, minus the whole blood sucking part.

With his brooding nature and weirdly pale skin, it's surprisingly easy for Finbar to pretend to be paranormal. But, when he meets the one girl who just might like him for who he really is, he discovers that his life as a pseudo-vampire is more complicated than he expected.

This hilarious debut novel is for anyone who believes that sometimes even nice guys-without sharp teeth or sparkly skin-- can get the girl.
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I was pretty eager to read this book after reading the back cover:

Attention, all girls reading this:
We get it. The message is coming through loud and clear: You think vampires are hot. Your little sister thinks vampires are hot. Your mom think vampires are hot. Every single female on the face of the earth thinks vampires are hot. Girls love vampires, and I love girls. Unfortunately, girls don't seem to love me.
So I'm making a change. For all the guys reading this, say a little prayer to the high school dating gods for me. Here's hoping that girls think fake vampires are hot, too.

Sounds pretty funny right? Well it turns out it really is! It is a fun a fairly quick read. Poor Finbar. He is Pale, odd, and awkward with girls while his brother Luke is a sports god, gorgeous, and a chick magnet. Eventually he decides that because women love vampires then he would pretend to be one since he already had some similarities like being super pale and brooding. Most of the book is about his transformation and trying to fit the mold he has created for himself. The book isn't just for laughs, I found myself rooting for Finbar and wanting him to get the girl. All the characters were, well, characters...like Finbar's mom, she was a trip. She is a germaphobe and quite paranoid and hilarious. I think Finbar's twin brother Luke would be an excellent candidate to get his own book considering how the book ended for him. I do know the author has a book planned for fall 2011 called The Boy Recession, but I doubt it is any continuation of Bloodthirsty. If any one can tell me what it is about please leave a comment!

4.5/5

About my site

I just wanted to let my readers know that I will be reviewing and possibly having giveaways of products that aren't book related (as some could probably already tell). The products I review are ones I find interesting and think that many of you might be interested in hearing about. My blog will remain mainly focused on books because reading is my passion. I hope everyone sticks around and enjoys my non-book related posts as well as my book reviews.

**ADULT POST 18+** Eden Fantasys adult site

~This is an adult post for 18 and up ONLY~
~Adult site testimonial~

I am a member of the Eden Fantasy Ambassador Program. To learn more about it go HERE.

Some of you may have already heard about Eden Fantasys, which is an online site that sells a wide variety of adult toys and lingerie. What you may not know however is that the site is much more than that. Among other things they have a forum for discussion where you can ask questions, learn more about products, or tell personal stories and they even have an online magazine called SEXIS. Eden Fantasys blog is called EdenCafe. On the blog they do talk about some of their products but they also have giveaways and write about things like "James Bond: Chauvinist or Savant?". There is a pretty wide variety of interesting topics discussed.

I received a free product in exchange for my testimonial. Any opinions expressed area my own.

Book Review: No Rest for the WIcca by Toni LoTempio

No Rest for the Wicca by Toni LoTempio

Release Date: September 6, 2010

• Format: Kindle Edition
• File Size: 340 KB

Amazon Description:

Communing with the dead is an everyday occurrence for PI Morgan Hawkes. A half-Wiccan witch who can commune with spirits of those caught between worlds, Morgan uses her talents to exorcise the trapped ghost or demon as part of the Paranormal Investigation Squad – until a string of murders with a voodoo slant prompts the Special Forces Agency to ask for her assistance. Someone’s killing pureblood witches- and the SFA’s convinced Morgan’s heritage (her father was a voodoo priest) could be instrumental in solving the mystery. Teamed with dashing SF agent Cole St. John – an Inheritor Vampire that sets her blood racing – the two of them fight their attraction for each other as they race to stop a madman from unleashing a demonic force upon the world.
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In this story Morgan Hawkes joins up with Cole St. John to solve a series of murders of witches and stop any more from happening. To do this they go undercover where they believe the victims are chosen and the killer works.
Okay, so I really liked the idea of this book and the parts about Wicca and Voodoo seem very well researched. Those parts felt very authentic and I appreciated them because my knowledge of Wicca and Voodoo is practically nil. The main character, Morgan, was pretty likable although it was a little annoying that she kept beating herself over her last partner's death which she feels responsible for. I mean, I get it. I understand her guilt, but it gets brought up A LOT, by her and many others constantly. I guess it just got a little old for me especially because she would have been more interesting if she showed her sassy, snarky side more, but that got a bit repressed since the focus was so much on the guilt and being a "Debbie Downer".
There were really 2 things that kept me from enjoying this book and one of those was the dated lingo. The setting is current times but there were moments when characters said out of place things like "wouldn't that be a gas" or "Aye". It just felt odd to me. Another thing was the author was waaaay overly descriptive. It seemed like every little thing had a description, including stuff that really just didn't matter or add anything at all to the book. It made me think about how back in high school I had to write a 3 page report but after putting in all the important stuff I only had 1.5 pages. So what did I do? I added fluff until I got my 3 pages. It didn't necessarily make the report better but I got my 3 pages.
Overall I didn't particularly like this book, but I didn't hate it either. I checked out a number of reviews other people did as well as the Amazon rating and it really seems like most people enjoy it because the average rating is 4 out of 5. Based on that info I am probably in the minority with my lower rating so I do feel that if you like Urban Fantasy you may like this book even though I didn't really.

You can buy this book on Amazon for $2.99

Here are some other reviews for this book:
Novel Addiction
My Love Affair With Books
Strange Candy Reviews

My Rating:

2.5/5

and the winner is.....

Sablexi

Congrats on winning the $50 gift code to CSN Stores!

I have sent the winner an email and they have 48 hours to respond before I pick a new winner.

Thank you everyone for entering my giveaway and I would like to say welcome to my new followers. I hope everyone sticks around because I do have at least 1 giveaway lined up for December (hopefully more).

Waiting on Wednesday #18

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

How to Woo a Reluctant Lady (Hellions of Halstead Hall, Book 3)
by Sabrina Jeffries

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Pocket Star (January 18, 2011)

Amazon Description:

When a charming rogue proposes she marry him to meet her grandmother’s ultimatum, the Sharpe clan’s strong-willed sister makes a tempting counter-offer that preserves her inheritance and ignites his imagination.

Lady Minerva Sharpe has the perfect plan to thwart her grandmother’s demands: become engaged to a rogue! Surely Gran would rather release her inheritance than see her wed a scoundrel. And who better to play the part of Minerva’s would-be husband than wild barrister Giles Masters, the very inspiration for the handsome spy in the popular Gothic novels she writes? The memory of his passionate kiss on her nineteenth birthday has lingered in Minerva’s imagination, though she has no intention of really falling for such a rakehell, much less marrying him. Little does she know, he really is a covert government operative. When they team up to investigate the mystery behind her parents’ deaths, their fake betrothal leads to red-hot desire. Then Minerva discovers Giles’s secret double life, and he must use all the cunning tricks of his trade to find his way back into her heart.