Sexy Songs

One of my favorite songs, even though it was totally overplayed in its time is Sunday Morning by Maroon 5. I love the lyrics of the song:

Fingers trace your every outline paint a picture with my hands Back and forth we sway like branches in a storm Change the weather still together when it ends

It's just such a romantic song to me, and puts me in mind of those gorgeous first strains of being in love.

I also love Your Body is a Wonderland by John Mayer. Which again, totally overplayed, but it's just a really excellent tribute to well...making love.

One mile of every inch of
Your skin like porcelain
One pair of candy lips
And your bubblegum tongue

Cause if you want love
We'll make it
Swim in a deep sea
Of blankets
Take all your big plans
And break 'em
This is bound to take a while

Or, how about Wicked Game by Chris Isaak? Is it a sexy song? Or just a smoking hawt video? Here's a sample of the lyrics, you decide.

The world was on fire
No one could save me but you.
Strange what desire will make foolish people do
I never dreamed that I'd meet somebody like you
And I never dreamed that I'd lose somebody like you

And then, of course, the classic, Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye. One of my favorite sexy songs:

We're all sensitive people
With so much to give
Understand me, sugar
Since we got to be
Let's live
I love you

There's nothin' wrong
With me lovin' you
Baby, no, no
And givin' yourself to me can never be wrong
If the love is true
Oh, babe, ooh, ooh

Don't you know
How sweet and wonderful life can be?
Whoo-ooh
I'm askin' you, baby
To get it on with me
Ooh, ooh, ooh

What's your favorite sexy song?

It's About That Time

As the year draws to a close, the "Big Hitter" movies come out. Those that will be vying for Academy Awards. Last year I made way through about 8 of the 10 movies that were most likely to content for Oscars. I missed The Reader, which I still regret. Sooner or later, I'll get it on DVD.

Anyway, the first movie that I think will get a ton of Oscar buzz is being more widely released today. It's called An Education, and it's almost universally agreed by the critics that it's a star making turn by Carey Mulligan. Mulligan played Kitty in one of my all time favorite movies, 2005's Pride and Prejudice.

Sony Pictures Classics has released a trailer for An Education, a film which was subject to one of the few intense bidding wars at this year’s Sundance. Jenny is a top A-level student who has hopes of attending university at Oxford in the early 1960’s, but she meets a charismatic older man (Peter Saarsgard) who offers an exciting alternative of seeing and experiencing life.

The story is adapted from Lynn Barber’s memoirs by British novelist Nick Hornby, best known to Americans as the writer of the books High Fidelity, About A Boy and Fever Pitch. The film features a notable performance from Carey Mulligan. After seeing this picture, you too will be convinced she could be the next big thing.

The movie is only playing in about three theaters in DC, but I'll definitely be making time to see it. It's exactly the sort of film that I just adore. And the early 60's is such a fun time period for over the top costuming. And y'all know what a costume-drama ho I am.

What movies are you looking forward to this winter?

Lazy Post

I've been in a bit of a blogging slump, lately. Not really blogging about, well, anything. And today seems to be no exception. Sooo, I give you a variety of links for your reading pleasure.

First, I'm a huge fan of Wendy, the Super Librarian. Not only is she eminently intelligent, but Miss Wendy just isn't afraid to tell it like it is. There is little I enjoy more than when Wendy pulls Miss Crabby Pants out for some commentary. Yesterday was no exception, go forth and read why Wendy (and pretty much everyone else) thinks that romance readers can be their own worst enemies.

I really feel very lucky to be able to call Kate Garrabant a friend. Her blog, Babbling About Books is such an eclectic blend of romance review, opinion, and well, frankly some very strange trips into Kate's occasionally twisted mind (love advice from King Mho Fho, Kate's stuffed lamb, comes to mind). Anyway, yesterday Kate tackled the issue of whether or not it's a big deal that Romantic Times accepts advertising monies from M/M authors, but will not review their work. I say yes it is a big deal. Go see what you think.

I'm also a big fan of Lurv a la Mode. I think the KMont is one of the smartest reviewers/bloggers out there. We have quite divergent reading tastes, but her opinions are always spot on, and she does an amazing job of nurturing great conversation by consistently blogging about interesting and timely topics. Yesterday she talked about the Twilight effect on YA books, and whether it's a good thing, or a bad one. Check it out!

And then, just for fun, KristieJ is talking bad boys over at the island. Join her for a great discussion there.

That's it for me today. Hope everyone is having a great week!

Drama City

**THIS POST IS ABOUT FOOTBALL**

One of the Redskins players yesterday said that DC is Drama City. Which is...accurate.

It's often said that being President of the United States is the second hardest job in Washington. Being head coach of the Washington Redskins is the first. And it's never been truer than it is right now.

The Redskins are the lead story in almost every local newscast. They are the front page story in both local papers. The angst and heartache of this season is frankly, everywhere in DC. I can tell you that I watched approximately three plays in Monday night's game. I didn't want to go to bed angry. And when someone is as invested a fan as I am, it's hard not to.

Does this make me a bad fan? Or a fairweather one? Perhaps. But I love this team, and I can't image pulling for another one. I just...can't witness the absolute horror of the way the Skins are playing this football season. And believe me, the Skins have been a mediocre football team for well more than a decade. But this is the most hopeless season I can remember ever experiencing. It's just an awful, awful experience.

Right now, I'm watching a lot of baseball, and I'm fully invested in hockey these days. The Caps are a darn good team, and as I've said before, hockey speaks to my blood thirsty nature. Sooo...let's go Caps!

In the meantime, I really am going to to try to find something else to do with my Sundays. Afterall, the heartburn being caused by the wretchedness of the Redskins can't really be healthy for me.

All The News That's Fit to Blog

I haven't done a newsie blog in a while, lucky, lucky blog visitors. So here I am to rectify that situation.

1- Reading: I've been reading Never Love A Lawman by Jo Goodman, which I started before my Book Smugglers guest dare, but then put aside to start again once I'd finished Clockwork Heart. I am quite enjoying the book. I like the heroine Rachel, who is completely feminine, and yet has this incredible band of steel in her spine. She's reserved and quiet and keeps to herself, but is also deeply passionate and really, really smart. And the hero, Wyatt is this fantastic sheriff. He's also crazy smart (got his law degree at Harvard), and he's so laid back and easy going, and yet, also just keeps moving forward, inch by inch, his steadfastness seducing and bewitching Rachel. I generally am not a fan of western romance, but I've bought into this one hook line and sinker. I'll do a reviewish once I'm done reading it.

2-Book Buying - I'm for the book store on Tuesday. I've been waiting to shop because I wanted to wait until book 2 in the Bride Quartet, Bed of Roses, by Nora Roberts came out. It's out on Tuesday, and at that time I'll be picking it, and Indiscreet by Carolyn Jewel up. I can't wait to read both, and given that I'll have to be on travel a week or so after it seems like a good time to splurge on some books.

3- New Gig - Well, I did finally get both a temporary badge, and a computer, which meant I also got an email address, yay! My permanent badge should be here soon, and I've been told by several people that they've received their security clearance questionnaires regarding me. So hopefully, I'm just about done with the vetting process. The wheels, they turn quite slowly. ;o) I'm headed to Port Canaveral in a couple of weeks to see my first Space Shuttle launch, live and in person. I'm beyond excited about it! It's currently due to launch on November 16, assuming it doesn't scrub out due to weather or mechanical issues.

4- This weekend we had Tracy and Lucy (Roxie's best doggie buddy) come to visit. We had a fantastic time with Tracy, enjoying visiting with her and treating her to a mani/pedi, since it was her birthday last week, and she's a starving grad student. H. and I had a blast with her, since she's the world's easiest house guest. Her visit gave H and I a good chance to clean up the house, since our fourth annual Thanksgiving with friends is coming up in a couple of weeks. So the house is in good shape for that. Yay! Tracy, come back any time, we love having you visit.

5- I finally got a new cell phone this weekend. I was all set to get the iPhone, but when I went and tried it, I found that the touchscreen wouldn't recognize my fingernails touching it. It needed my fingertips. Since I have long nails, which I am definitely NOT getting rid of, I decided to look at other phones. I ended up getting the Samsung Impression, which has a slide out QWERTY keyboard, but is also touchscreen. It's got the same screen technology as Samsung's LED televisions. Plus, the fact that the phone was $75, instead of the $200 that the iPhone would have cost me, makes me happy. While there are a couple of things I don't like about the phone (the calendar feature isn't as good as my last phone), overall, I'm very pleased with it, and don't regret not getting the iPhone at all.

6- (ETA) Congrats to four of my fellow reviewers at Romance Novel TV: Andrea, Gannon, PJ and Buffie. They've started a new review site, The Romance Dish. They'll be reviewing and will also feature author interviews and one of my favorite features at RNTV, Andrea's comprehensive list of what's being published in the next month. Congrats, girls! I'm looking forward to visiting for all the fun!

That's it for me.

What's going on in your world? What are you reading? Seen anything good on TV or at the Movies?

Favorite Modern Family Moment #2

Another classic moment from Modern Family.

Cameron (in the #7 jersey) and Mitchell (the redhead) are a couple. Jay (Ed O'Neill) is Mitchell's dad.

Jay is looking for validation why his smoking hot wife, Gloria, would be with him. Cameron provides validation. Classic.

My Favorite Show on TV Right Now

Have you seen Modern Family yet? If not, please watch.

This scene is when Cameron and Mitchell (the gay couple) tell their family that they have adopted a baby girl.

Seriously, pure comedy gold.

Book Smugglers' Guest Dare

I was the October victim of the Guest Dare at The Book Smugglers. Come see what I thought of Clockwork Heart by Dru Paggliossoti.

Literary Resuscitation

I read an article today in the WaPo about how three book franchises: The Hitchhiker's Guide the Galaxy, Dracula and Winnie the Pooh are all being presented with sequels, years after the creators of those characters have died. What I find so fascinating is the idea that those who hold those literary properties in trust would allow others to add to the authors' original legacy. I'm not saying it's right or wrong (although, the idea of anyone other than A.A. Milne writing Pooh gives me the shivers), I guess I'm just wondering, would romance authors who have written famous franchises allow someone else to write their characters?

For example, I can't imagine that Nora Roberts would say to another author, "Go ahead and write an in Death book." Even after her death (knock on wood), I can't imagine allowing someone else to continue the series. Although the source material for Eve and Roarke is copious. We know a ton about this histories, their personalities, those closest to them. But I'm not sure that another author could recreate the tone of Dallas, or the romance of their relationship.

Or how about JR Ward, who has such a particular voice that she employs with her books. Plus, the arc of the mythology in the Black Dagger Brotherhood's world seems so particular.

All that being said, there have been several movie franchises that have changed directors. The most recent (and IMO one of those most successful) is the Star Trek franchise. This summer's version of the movie is almost universally adored (I saw it twice, and loved it each time), and while hard core fans were nervous about the movie before it came out, the response to it was overwhelmingly positive.

So I put the question to you.

What do you think about literary resuscitation? OK for another author to pick up where one has left off (with appropriate permissions, of course), and keep the franchise going? Are there series where this has been undertaken successfully?

How the Show How I Met Your Mother Taught Me New Expressions

I'm one of those people who have many, many catch phrases. For a long time "Oh for God's sake!" was my favorite, and I used it for everything.

I routinely use "I KNOW!" a la Monica from Friends.

But lately, there is one sitcom that seems to constantly introduce me to new and inventive verbiage. I'm talking, of course, about How I Met Your Mother.

Last week, I learned about the sexless innkeeper. You know, you hook up w/a guy because you live out in the 'burbs and need somewhere to stay in the city. You don't have sex w/him because you're "tired" but use his place as a crash site. He is the sexless innkeeper.

There's The Mosby: this is where after one date you announce that you are in love with the person who you've just gone out with, causing them to slam on the brakes and put it in reverse as quickly as possible. Good for getting over-interested people to leave you alone.

And of course, one of my all time favorites: The Naked Man Gambit. This is when a date is not going well. You contrive a way for your date to leave the room, and then strip and pose naked. Apparently, two out of three times, she'll end up having sex with you, just because she feels sorry for you. I can honestly, say this has never happened to me, but the episode was hilarious!

There are Woo Girls (of which, I might possibly have been one -- you know, a long, long time ago). These are those women at bars, who when excited about stuff, raise their hands (sometimes holding a drink) over their heads and shout out "Woooooo!"

Who could forget the Hot/Crazy Scale which is the scale that illustrates how hot a woman has to be in order to make her crazy palatable in a relationship?

Now, I don't use all of those in my daily lexicon, but any of them will make me laugh out loud. How I Met Your Mother is quickly becoming my Friends in that I'm starting to be able to relate any moment to an episode of the show.

What are some of your favorite sitcom expressions?

*Graceful curtsy to TWOP for compiling a list of HIMYM expressions

The Flexible Five

As you know, I have a Top 5 list. One that is mostly long standing with only one deletion/addition over the last two years. For those wondering, Top 5 is that list of guys who you have an exemption to sleep with no matter whether you are in a committed relationship, married, a nun, whatever. Both men and women are entitled to their Top 5 list. Mine is as follows:

5- Josh Holloway (from TV's LOST)
4- George Clooney
3- David Beckham
2- Hugh Jackman (down a slot from his previous high on #1)
1- Taylor Kitsch (from TV's Friday Night Lights, and Wolverine)

My plus one (girl I'd consider going gay for) remains Angelina Jolie.

Here's the thing, Scott also has a Top 5 list. But really, it's a Top 17 list, because it changes constantly. Many of our conversations go like so:

S: "______(model/actress) is definitely in my Top 5"
Me: Um, OK. Who does she replace?
S: Who else is on my list?
Me: Not my job to keep your list. I can tell you though that you've got about 17 women in your Top 5.
S: (affronted) I *do* not! Let's see there's...(list follows, including much dithering and questions like, "Who plays so-and-so on thus-and-such show? Yeah, her.")

Yesterday's text exchange went like so:

S: Tiffani Theissen is definitely in my Top 5.
Me: I just threw up a little in my mouth.
S: What? You're judgmental! What's wrong with Tiffani?
Me: She's got a round face, and also, she has Brian Austin Green ick on her.
S: I'll give you the round face thing, but she's round other places too...
Me: Oh, eww.

Anyway, so, his Top 5 includes: Charlize Theron (she's apparently in cement, she's so permanent, as I was informed yesterday, even though the last couple times he went through his list, she didn't appear. See? Flexible), Rena Sofer, Julie Bowen, Tiffani Theissen, and one other pick who he is holding in receivership.

The point is though, this list changes constantly.

Now, for my girlfriends, most of their lists are relatively static. My list is not made up of what kind of person are they. Because, let's be honest, I don't think Becks is the brightest bulb on the Christmas tree, and when he talks he sounds like a London gutter rat. But look how pretty. As I say over and over, "I don't need him to talk to me." But generally they're on the list because there's a certain "something" about them. Also, they are consistently hot. Almost every picture of Clooney, I think, "Wow, he's gorgeous". Same with Jackman. For Becks, Holloway and Kitsch, it's the bad boy thing. I just love a bad boy.

For guys, I think it's less so. Scott's list seems to be mostly based on hotness, not consistency. Seriously, one hot photo of a starlet, and she's in consideration for Top 5 status.

So, I guess I'm wondering, who is in your Top 5. And why? And also, does your significant other/hubby have a top 5? If so, who is in it?

I've Mostly Held My Tongue...

But this ad on Craigslist yesterday says it all:

WANTED!

Experienced business professional (and billionaire) to buy the Washington Redskins Franchise and take it over from the evil Dan Snyder. He is the worst owner in sports and has mismanaged and placed control of the team in the hands of incompetents who probably couldn't manage a team in Madden on franchise mode. Must have at least $1 billion in cash reserves or other liquid asset. Team is valued around $1.2 but Snyder will probably ask for $1.8 (judging by the markups on concessions, tickets with limited view, and parking.)

REQUIREMENTS:
-Can not be a greedy person whose sole joy in life is derived from net worth
-Must be able to take a "hands off" approach to team operations
-Can not be friends with Vinny Cerrato
-Must rename the stadium "FedEx Field at Jack Kent Cooke Stadium"
-Must love the Washington Redskins

I don't believe I've ever been more depressed as a Redskins fan (and believe me, these ladies have been bad for a LOOOOONG time). It's going to be a long, and truly upsetting season.

The Most Romantic Male Character in Fiction

*rubs hands together*

Today on EW's Shelf Life blog, they published a list, apparently compiled in Britain (it might be the Daily Mail, but I couldn't really tell), of the top 10 most romantic male characters in fiction. Here's the list:

So here’s the British poll in full:

1. Edward Rochester of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre
2. Richard Sharpe of Bernard Cornwell’s Sharpe series.
3. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
4. Heathcliff of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights
5. Rhett Butler of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone With The Wind
6. Mark Darcy, of Helen Fielding’s Bridget Jones’ Diary
7. Captain Corelli of Louis de Berniere’s Captain Corelli’s Mandolin
8. Henry DeTamble of Audrey Niffenegger’s The Time Traveller’s Wife
9. Gabriel Oak of Thomas Hardy’s Far From The Madding Crowd
10. Rupert Campbell Black of Jilly Cooper’s The Rutshire Chronicles

OK, so first, I don't recognize several of those books or series. So, let's put that out there right off the bat. Second, Aren't Fitzwilliam Darcy and Mark Darcy the same person, more or less?

And how can Colonel Brandon not be on the list? Also Maxim de Winter from Daphne Du Maurier's Rebecca?

What's your opinion? Who is missing?

Emotional Manipulation - Nicholas Sparks Style

So, my friend Christine was mesmerized by the movie trailer for Nights in Rodanthe, which she lobbied for us to go see. My response: "Are you kidding? Someone dies at the end of this movie. I promise you that."

I adore romance novels (duh!). I love the happily ever after. I love experiencing the process of overcoming obstacles and watching two people fall in love. You know what ruins it? When one of them dies at the end!

That's why, despite the fact that I adore Amanda Seyfried, and the lusty and totally inappropriate cougarlike feelings for Channing Tatum, I will absolutely NOT be seeing Dear John, the latest movie adaptation of a Nicholas Sparks book. I watched the trailer last night. The movie seems to be about a guy who meets a girl, and then goes off to war. He comes back, they fall in love, he re-ups to go back, he comes back, and something happens. My guess? One of them dies. Or, she marries someone else. Anyway, the end result is, one of the two of them ends up pathetically alone with only the comfort of knowing that for one brief, albeit passionate moment, they had perfect love.

Blech. Not for me.

I was suckered into watching The Notebook - mesmerized by Ryan Gosling's cuteness and my adoration for Rachel McAdams, who I find to be ethereally beautiful. I did finally end up watching Nights in Rodanthe when it came out on Cinemax, just because I had to find out whether Richard Gere or Diane Lane dies (for the record: Gere). I saw Message in a Bottle (Costner dies), I saw Bridges of Madison County (Eastwood dies). Why, Nicholas Sparks? Why?

Is it that freaking hard to write a love story that ends well?! Why must you emotionally manipulate me by making me fall for two likeable main characters who find love and then kill one off? What is your damage? And even more to the point, what the hell is mine that I still find the need to sit through one of your movies just to see who dies at the end?

How 'bout you? Are you a fan of Nichlas Sparks? If so, give me ONE book/movie that ends well, please. I'll read it, I promise!

Honoring Kathleen Winsor

I'll be leaping aboard Jessica's bandwagon, and helping to honor Kathleen Winsor, who authored Forever Amber. Find out why we're honoring Winsor by clicking the link.

Anyway, Jessica's idea is to list your 16 favorite romances. Heh. A list? And tell why? My pleasure!

The list:


The Windflower by Tom and Sharon Curtis. I'm not even saying why anymore. Want to know? Click here. Or here. Or here.

Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas. One reason, one reason only. Jack Travis. Who Julie James says is the least realistic hero ever. Um, sure. That's why I love him. Gorgeous, rich, care giving, tender, great in the sack? Perfect.

Slightly Dangerous by Mary Balogh. This is a book that remains in my Top 10 Romances of all time. Why? Because the thawing of Wulfric Bedwyn is such a gradual and magical experience. Plus, Balogh has drawn a heroine who is his counterpart in every way. The book is quite evocative of Pride & Prejudice in the very best possible way. It is an annual re-read for me, and an experience that I revel in every time.

Holding the Dream by Nora Roberts. This is the second in the Dream trilogy and features another of my favorite types of characters, the neurotic heroine. Kate is an accountant and has been given a leave of absence for suspected embezzlement. In the mean time, she's met the delicious Byron, who works for her family's hotel. He is another caregiving alpha,(or, as the SBs are calling him, an Omega hero) and one of my favorite Nora heroes ever. He just works stubborn, difficult Kate around until she realizes that she can't do without him. I love to watch the way super-smart Kate's brain works and I appreciate the way Byron just keeps at it, maneuvering her into love. You guys know I love Nora's books, but this is the one I re-read the most.

Fallen from Grace by Laura Leone. The story of Ryan a male prostitute, and Sara, his next door neighbor. The books is emotionally gripping, ridiculously sweet (but not toothache inducing) and a lovely story. It's not a book for everyone, but it's such a wonderful, touching story and one that I just love sinking into.

Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh. This is far and away my favorite ongoing paranormal series out there. The world building is completely evolved and you never get the feeling that Nalini is writing herself into a corner. The heroes tend to be very alpha, but the heroines are strong in their own way too. Each book raises the stakes in the series, and I've found that her craft is becoming more refined as she goes. A truly outstanding series. I've re-read StS probably 20 times. Lucas is my favorite hero thus far in the series. Dominant and aggressive, he knows just exactly how to wring the emotion out of his "emotionless" Psy, Sascha. Their chemistry is terrific, and the introduction to the world is wonderfully done.

Lover Eternal by JR Ward. I'm one of those readers who has grown very disenchanted with the series, but can't seem to stop reading. But the first three books in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series were everything I want in PNR: tautly written, fully imagined world building, and very strong romances. Sure, the heroes names are silly, and the heroines can be pretty door-matty, but Ward knows how to write an emotional romance. Rhage is my favorite of the brothers (until I finally get Tohr's book). He's a caregiver, and a pussycat, all dressed up in that badass warrior disguise. I think this series either works for you, or doesn't. But for the first three books, I was as rabid as any fangirl.

Warprize by Elizabeth Vaughan. The Warlords of the Plains series is one of my all time favorites. The series has a medieval, sort of Clan of the Cave Bear feel to it. With the heroine Xylara, a princess and accomplished headler, being sold into servitude to Keir of the Cat, who conquers her land. Nothing is exactly as it seems in this series, and Vaughan uses the luxury of the three books to make the story unfold slowly. Evoking both tears and laughter from me, Warprize is another book that I've read over and over again.

As Shadows Fade by Colleen Gleason. A brilliantly written historical paranormal series, the Gardella Chronicles are some of my favorite re-reads. The heroine, Victoria Gardella Grantworth de Lacy straddles the line between ton debutante and vampire slayer so adeptly the mind boggles. Featuring two wonderfully drawn hero choices, the series is five books long. Fair warning, if you're not a fan of the love triangle, this series isn't for you. Almost all of Gleason's fans had chosen a team (Team Max or Team Sebastian) by the second book in the series. What I love about this series is that Gleason pulls no punches in torturing her heroine. Victoria suffers great losses throughout the series, which makes the emotional punch bigger and raises the reader's investment in the series.

Scandal by Carolyn Jewel. This is easily my favorite historical read of the last couple years. It is the circling between the hero and the heroine, and his determination to be the man he thinks she deserves that makes the book so entertaining. It is Jewel's mastery of the written word that makes the book superb.

A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught. This romance was the first book I'd read where I realized that one could laugh while reading an emotional book. McNaught created many of the "romance cliches" that exist today. But this book is at its best when it is playing Montagues and Capulets. The final scene of the book is among my favorite ever written. Even if the heroine does have a ridiculously modern name. Jenny and Royce's journey is another annual re-read for me.

See Jane Score by Rachel Gibson. I remember the first time I read this book, I was enthralled by the professional athlete angle, and the tension between the hero (the athlete) and the heroine (a reporter). Full of funny scenes, comical interactions and very hot sexual tension, this book is an annual re-read for me.

Again the Magic by Lisa Kleypas. This is not the most popular of Lisa's historical romances, but it is my favorite. It features her trademark blue collar hero and a heroine of noble birth. McKenna is both tender and difficult at the same time, and the sweet and enduring love that he has for the heroine makes it a favorite for me. His speech at the end of the book to the heroine is some of Lisa's best work, IMHO.

Shades of Twilight by Linda Howard. Old school Howard. Bastard hero + unsure and slightly awkward heroine + silly murder plot + hot sex = WIN. Howard does the south like nobody's business. And I love her autocratic heroes. Webb Talant is one of my favorites.

Sugar Daddy by Lisa Kleypas. Don't get me wrong, Jack Travis is in my top 5 favorite romance heroes of all time. But before there was Jack, there was Gage. What I adore about Gage is that he's definitely all man, but evolved man. He gives Liberty the space and credit she needs, while romancing her in his own, decidedly alpha way. I love their chemistry.

Witness in Death by JD Robb. Roarke is my very favorite romance hero ever. Probably because we've gotten to know him so well over the series. He's complicated and gorgeous. Loaded and more patient than a saint. And he's such a caregiver. Witness in Death is my favorite because it features a scene where Roarke screws up. And we get to see it so rarely, it's worth the price of admission.

I love that I got to repeat some of my favorite authors. This was fun! And a lovely way to honor a romance pioneer. Thanks, Jessica!

Welcome to Washington...Now Stand on the Right!

Most of you know, I live in Northern Virginia, and work in downtown DC. Currently, I work in southeast DC, which is a hike from my house. I get on the Metro each day and ride for about 50 minutes.

The Metro is a fascinating microcosm of human behavior. You see, here in DC, there are several (OK - many) unwritten rules about Metro behavior. Those of us who live in the area, and ride the Metro routinely, learn the behavior quickly. Of course, DC is a serious tourist destination, and Metro is among the cheapest and most convenient ways to get around DC, so we have a ton of people who are completely clueless riding Metro too. Anyway, whether your travel plans are going to bring you to DC or not, here are the unwritten rules of Metro, for your edification:

1- When riding one of Metro's legendary escalators (we have some of the longest in the world), the rules are simple: stand on the right, walk on the left. As much as we all know that you LOVE your husband/boyfriend/mother/significant other, the Metro escalator is not the place to stand side by side and gaze into each other's eyes. More likely than not, you'll end up w/a DC native (me!) saying in a surly voice to the person blocking the left side, "Excuse me" or, if you're less lucky, they'll bellow "STAND ON THE RIGHT!" at you as they barrel by. Welcome to Washington.

2- In the mornings, we all know how excited you are at the prospect of your very, very exciting trip to the Lincoln Memorial/Air & Space Museum/White House/Washington Monument. We do NOT want to hear about it. There is NO talking on the Metro in the morning. Stop talking for a moment, and look around you. What is everyone doing? They're reading. They have headphones on (to drown out your talking). They are quietly getting their day started.

3- This one is for the fellas: yes, we're all impressed at your incredible sense of balance. And WOW, look at you keeping your balance when the train slows to a stop. And WOW, look at you careening into people when the train stops suddenly (as it does regularly). See the shiny rails above your head, and on the back on the seats? Hold on to them. No one appreciates being slammed into by some guy who is too cool to hold on.

4- This one is directed to the woman on the train with me last week. If you have a cold (which you CLEARLY did). Please, plan for being on the train. Bring kleenex with you. Cough into them. Cover up. Don't sneeze all over everyone. We don't all want your cold. No seriously. I can say this with authority, because I NOW HAVE YOUR COLD. Wench.

5- Give up your seat to old folks, people w/disabilities, and women who are 12 months pregnant. This is a toughie. Metro seats are hard won. You have to be cagey and aggressive to get one. And yes, you just sat down. But for goodness sake, take pity on the poor pregnant lady, give her your seat.

6- When you come off the escalator, please do not come to a complete stop the moment you get off to get your bearings. Step to the right of the escalator, gather a few feet away. In most cases, if you're turned around, someone will be glad to point you in the right direction. Conversely, you're probably going to get mowed down if you stop directly at the top of the escalator.

I realize that these rules sound militant. And really, I'm only trying to help. But if you could adhere to these rules when traveling on Metro, we'd all be SO much happier.

Welcome to Washington. Enjoy your visit.

Wednesday Morning Madness

Wow, that doesn't really trip right off the tongue, now does it. Not much exciting is going on in my life right now, so I thought I'd just blog about...whatever. So, here's some randomness for your reading pleasure.

1- Yesterday Scott informed me that I need to read Freakonomics. Of course, I snorted derisively and was all, "Are you new? I don't read non-fiction." To which he replied, "You don't read anything but romance, you need to broaden your horizons." I told him I would when he did. I offered to loan him Never Love a Lawman by Jo Goodman when I'm done with it. He declined. Phew! Dodged another bullet. I was worried there for a second that I'd have to plow through something non-fictionish. I believe the last nonfiction book I read was Eat, Pray, Love, which I read more than 2 years ago.

2- Damn the movie trailer gods! Why, oh why, do they tempt me with Couples Retreat? I know full well that every funny moment in the movie is in the trailer. And yet, I can't seem to stop myself from wanting to go see it. I tried desperately to talk Scott into going with me. Yeah, apparently, he doesn't feel the temptation like I do. Even after I told him that the kid from A Christmas Story, Peter Billingsley, directed it.

3- Halloween is upon us again. I'm on the record as desperately hating Halloween. I loathe everything about it. The costumes, the colors, the scary movie fests that seem to be in non-stop rotation until the end of October. All of it aggravates me. I've decided the best way for me to avoid the madness is to go out of town, which I'll be doing this year since Halloween falls on a Saturday. Brilliant, no?

4- So, pretty much everyone who reads this blog already knows this, but I'll say it anyway. My darling Lisabea has a new book out this week. It's called Cover Me. It's a m/m romance, and from what I hear, verra, verra steamy. Here are some reviews. Go forth, buy it, here. Also, LBea tells us today that she's got a new, and very intriguing sounding book coming out from Samhain called Catch Me If You Can. Woohoo! Go LBea! I'm so proud of you!

5- JR Ward's new series is out this week. It's called the Fallen Angels, and the first book is called Covet. I read it a few months ago, and had many, many issues with the book. The largest one being her decision to set the book in Caldwell, NY, which is the site of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I mean, big bad vampires and big bad angels all in one town? I'll bet the Caldwell CVB doesn't mention that in their "Come to Scenic Caldwell, NY" campaign!

Anyway, if you are a fan of the BDB, my guess is, you'll probably like Covet. Me? I had the same issues with it as I do with BDB. Angels who talk like 12YO girls (in this case, referring to a cold beer as a "freshie," um, seriously? Is it too much to just call it a "cold one"? Or even a "brewski" for God's sake?!), and an indulgent length. The book is probably more than 600 pages, and it does a LOT in those 600 pages. I think that Ward would benefit from some tightening up on the pacing of her stories, and an editor who would tamp down on her instinct to throw everything and the kitchen sink into a book. Also, this book is no more a romance than the BDB is. Which again, I wail and gnash my teeth about. Ward really does such lovely romances when she puts her mind to it. Why has she veered so far away from one of her gifts? All that being said, I like the Big Bad in this series much better. It's a huge step up from the Lessening Society. And the writing is a cracktastic as ever. I read the book in two sittings. And if we're being totally honest, will probably keep going w/the series as long as it's in MM. So overall, if you like Ward's stuff, you'll probably like Covet. If you hate her, don't bother. My grade? C-.

6- Now, on to a book I can't wait to read: Indiscreet by Carolyn Jewel (gorgeous cover, no?). As you all know, I was blown out of the water by Scandal. And I've read review after positive review from Indiscreet. I'll be headed to Borders on Saturday to pick up Indiscreet. I simply can't wait to sink into Jewel's wonderful prose again.

7- My condolences go out to Wendy. I watched the 7th to 10th inning of the game last night. I'll say this, I hate baseball (except when my boyfriend Joe Buck is calling it), and that game was exciting. I was rooting as hard as I could for Detroit, knowing that somewhere in California you were climbing the walls. Sorry you ended up disappointed. I really hoped Detroit would pull it off. On a side note, I was astounded at how good the Metrodome field looked, considering that Monday Night Football was played there the night before.

8- I'm also accepting condolences. The Redskins are as wretched as ever this season. We're at 2-2, and I can promise you that the two wins we have are not "real" wins. I should be accustomed to heartbreak from this team, and yet each year, I fool myself into thinking this could be the year that the Skins pull it together. Sadly, I'm quite sure both our coach and QB are going to be run out of town on a rail at the end of the season, which means we'll be "rebuilding" for the next 2-3 years. SIGH. Such is the life of a Redskins fan. Doesn't make it any less angst-inducing.

9- New gig update. Yes, I finally got a temporary badge (yay!), but still no computer, and no email address. But hopefully that'll all change soon.

That's it for me. What's going on with you guys?

Sweet Seduction by Maya Banks - A Review (-ish)

I enjoy Maya Banks' style. She writes lush, imaginative erotic romances that are hot, but also don't get my squick factor going. I was pleasantly surprised by Sweet Seduction, her latest release because it didn't feature a heroine in danger, which was a rut I felt she was leaning towards.

Julie Standford owns a successful salon. She's a woman who knows what she wants. And she wants her favorite massage client, Nathan Tucker. She's given him every green light she knows how to give, and...nothing. She knows he's attracted because he'll never roll over during the massage sessions so he can hide just how interested he is. But he just won't seem to act on that attraction. Julie decides that Nathan just isn't interested. Maybe it's that she's plus sized. Maybe it's that she's a self confident woman. Who knows? She decides that she's going take what she's been wanting for a while and then walk away.

For his part, Nathan could not be more shocked when Julie jumps up on the table and gives him the blow job of his life. He's stupefied when she finishes, and tells him not to bother coming back. She's done.

Julie decides that she'll go to her friend Serena's boyfriend, Damon, and arrange a visit to The House. A place where Damon grants women safe enactment of their fantasies. Serena is close friends with people who work with Nathan, and he very quickly gets wind of Julie's fantasy -- two hot nights with two men. He goes to Damon and demands to be one of the guys. He talks Micah, a friend of his into being that other guy (I don't really get that, but hey, it's an erotic romance). Nathan and Micah work together to give Julie an incredibly hot night. Of course, Julie is blindfolded and handcuffed, so she has no idea it's Nathan she's been with. She continues to be snotty and difficult with him. After their second night together, Julie discovers that Nathan is one of the men she's been with. She's humiliated and furious. How will Nathan ever convince her now that he really wants a relationship with her?

This book is a straight contemporary erotic romance. Banks has a really deft hand with love scenes, making them both emotional and very hot. My only quibble with this story is a song that I sing over and over again. Nathan is seriously a great guy. And Julie is a bit of a pain in the ass. Why is she so slow to see what seriously every one of her friends and acquaintances can see? She pushes Nathan away time and again, mostly because he's not great with his words, he doesn't throw himself at her feet, preferring instead to attempt to woo her. So, as expected, my frustration with Julie was pretty high. But Nathan perseveres, and with his efforts, she begins to realize that he's a really good guy, who wants nothing more than to cherish her. The happily ever after is well done and believable and the book overall was a really enjoyable few hours for me. I will say that Banks has whetted my appetite for Micah's story, which promises to be very dark, and emotional. If you're looking for an enjoyable, straight contemporary erotic romance, Sweet Seduction might just be the ticket.

Final grade: B-

Rowr...

I think I mentioned that my reading slump is over. But as I peruse by TBR stack, I find that almost everything in it is historical. And I just haven't been in a historical frame of mind as of late.

Then I realized that I had an ARC of Mercury's War by Lora Leigh. Now, I'm on the record as finding her Navy SEALS series pretty laughable (all the dripping, and sexing, even when you're about to die). But I vaguely recalled reading one of her Breed books ages ago. No clue which one, or who was in it. I know that the series is a long one with fifteen or more books. The Breeds can be a variety of weres, but this book was about a lion.

The general premise of the book is that the Breeds are genetically altered humans who have some cat DNA. They mate for life, imprinting on their one mate. They know that they're in the mating cycle (or whatever it's called) because small glands under their lower teeth swell and they emit a hormone that "marks" their female mate as theirs. Also, during the sexing, there's a barb that um, comes out of the male, and "locks" into the female part. The barb also emits some sort of a hormone that I believe prepares the female for, um...something. Child bearing, maybe.

Anyway, fifteen (or whatever) books in, the whole thing isn't explained all that well. So, I started Mercury's War mostly because I figured there would be some mortal danger sexing and dripping and gushing and I would get a kick out of it. But, I actually enjoyed the book. Other than the fact that the heroes have seriously RIDICULOUS names (First name: Rule, Last Name: Breaker...not making this up). This hero's name was Mercury Ware. Anyway, he's some sort of "special-er" breed than others because his face hasn't lost all of its animalness. Or something.

Anyway, they H/h meet, there are many lusty feelings, she's hot for him, he apparently can smell it (as an aside: ewww, why do authors do this? Does anyone find the fact that the hero can smell the heroine's arousal sexy? Anyone at all?!), he finally claims her, there's biting of her shoulder (which apparently he keeps doing because it won't heal, and he finds it very hot). She's human, no wait, she's hybrid, no wait, she's Breed. Crazy scientist, trying to send hero back to confinement, which almost drove him crazy. Hero's mate who he thought died (so he'd never mate again) comes back from the dead. Girl fight! Love, love, sex, love, sex. The end.

So, when I finished the book, which I enjoyed more than I expected, I began to think, what is it about were books that I enjoy so much? Recently, I've read a Psy/Changeling book, Blaze of Memory by Nalini Singh (she's in my top 3 favorite authors or all time), Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs (werewolves), and now this Breed book. I can't seem to put my finger on why weres seem to work for me. But they do.

What about you? Do you enjoy books with weres or shapeshifters? Which are your favorites? Are you a fan of Lora Leigh's Breed series?