The Book-Kase

Judy Greer - Two and a Half Men

2011-10-12T18:44:00.011-05:00

I doubt I am the only person that noticed this, but I watched the season premiere of Two and a Half Men recently. I haven't seen that much of the last couple of seasons because my Monday nights are usually busy, but I have caught up on the new season online because I was curious to see how the replaced Charlie Sheen's character.

My question is this, did anyone else find it annoying that Judy Greer reappeared in the show as someone completely different? If you don't remember she was Aunt Myra (Herb's sister and Jake's new aunt) in Season 4. She appeared for a few episodes in which she was a bridesmaid in Judith and Herb's wedding and hooked up with Charlie. She now reappears this season as Bridget, Walden's high school sweetheart and wife that is currently divorcing him.

Maybe whoever cast her thought that the audience wouldn't remember her since it was five seasons ago. However, since the show is on syndication, I noticed immediately. I suppose the fact that she went from blonde to brunette was supposed to throw the audience off too.

Nothing against Judy Greer. She is an amazing actress and she always does a fabulous job. Sometimes I think she is underestimated because she always gets stuck playing the best friend of the heroine in movies. All I meant was that casting directors must think audiences are dumb if that they think they can get away with this type of re-casting.

I get that it is fiction, and we are supposed to go with it. After all, in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night (and in the re-adaptation She's the Man) we have to pretend that Viola and Sebastian look enough like one another that she can dress up in men's clothing and no one notices she is a woman.. Heck, she even gets a woman to fall in love with her while dressed as her brother. I know as an audience we should allow our imaginations to run free and go along with the story. Although, all I was asking for was a joke or something. After all, wouldn't Jake notice that she resembles his aunt, or Herb think she could pass for his sister's twin.

Have you noticed this happening on any other shows? Do you watch Two and a Half Men? Did you notice?

The Tudors

2011-09-19T00:51:00.002-05:00

Last month, I watched The Tudors on Netflix Instant Play and was really enjoyed it.I have always had an avid interest in anything British, especially if related to the monarchy, and since this is the story of Henry VIII, I really wanted to see it. If you are up on your history then I am sure you will know Henry VIII was king during the Reformation after he broke away from the Catholic Church in Rome and created the Church of England. While he is famous for reforming the church, he is more famous for beheading many people close to him, and for having six wives (two of whom he had beheaded).

After breaking away from the papacy, he had the marriage to his first wife, Catherine of Aragon and mother to Mary I, annulled so that he could marry his second wife Anne Boleyn and because he was frustrated that Catherine never gave him a male heir.

Henry and Anne's had a marriage full of passion, but he became irritated by her because she was outspoken and opinionated, not a quiet and obedient wife like Catherine had been. He was also upset that she only had a daughter and miscarried three children. Once he tired of A

nne, he conveniently decided to believe some nasty gossip about her (such as she was having affairs with other men, including her brother, and that she was a heretic) and had her beheaded. There is no evidence that Anne ever betrayed Henry or that she was a heretic.

He then married his third wife, Jane Seymour (not the actress) a mere eleven days after Anne's death. He loved Jane and was content with her, but she died shortly after giving birth to their son and heir, Edward VI.

He then agreed to marry Anne of Cleves for political reasons and based only on a portrait of her. Once he met her he did not like at all. Some say she was not beautiful, but according to portraits of her they are not sure why Henry did not like her. Anyway, the marriage was never consummated and was later annulled. Henry gave her the honorary title of sister and she became a friend to Henry and his children.

His fifth wife, Catherine Howard, was a young girl who loved another (Thomas Culpepper, male courtier and friend of Henry) and she had an affair with him. Once the truth came out she was ordered to the tower and later beheaded.

Henry's last wife, Catherine Parr, married him later in life. She took care of him when his old jousting wound acted up and was a mother figure to all of his children. Catherine Parr outlived Henry and later remarried.

The series was really well written. It spanned Henry's life from his first marriage until his death. It went into detail about his wives and children, but also spent a considerable amount of time discussing the reformation and how it affected England and neighboring countries. Not to mention his many friendships, the longest of which was with his friend Charles Brandon, who Henry gave the title the Duke of Suffolk too. It was interesting to watch their friendship change and evolve throughout the series.

I would recommend the series because for the most part it is histrorically accurate. They did take a few liberties to make things more dramatic for telelvision or to fit things in better, but for the most part they stayed true to the story. I looked up a lot of things to see if the show followed history and was suprised by how close some of the scenes were to what is known about what happened. Whowever wrote it, definitely did there homework, but still kept the viewer on the edge of their seat. Not to mention the casting was great. Each actor/actress did a great job portraying these historical figures.

Have you watched The Tudors? If so, what did you like or not like about it? If not, would it be something that you would be interested in watching?

9/11 - Will Never Be Forgotten

2011-09-11T18:31:00.001-05:00

I wrote this poem when I was in college, the day after the planes hit the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. I watched the coverage for days. I couldn't seem to look away. I have never been so shocked or horrified. I have never felt so much anger as when I saw our nation threatened. However, at the same time I was so proud of our country. How everyone came together and all the fireman, police officers, first responders, volunteers and good samaritans all came together to help in any way that they could.

As a said, I wrote this poem the next day and it was the first poem that I ever wrote that was not for an assignment. It was the first time I felt inspired to write something and while it is basic in style and wording, I still think it captures how many of us felt that day. (It was also published in the my college's newspaper, The Impact, the next week). So for the 10th anniversary of the towers falling, I thought I would post my poem to my blog and share it with all of you.

September 11, 2001

A nation in disbelief

Threatened to the core

Some cried,

Others wanted justice more.

Justice they shall have

Their leaders proclaim

Bust still we know

It will never be the same

We not only lost landmarks,

Officers and men

We lost mothers, fathers,

family and friends

A nation brought together

From east to west

Wanting to help

It brought out our best.

Neighbor helping neighbor

No matter the cost

Never will we forget

A single life lost.

The Hunger Games Trilogy

2011-09-01T15:19:00.005-05:00

I recently read a YA series that I had heard so much about, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. The series was interesting and it reminded me of a short story I read my freshman year in college, "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. In the a short story one villager was selected to be stoned to death by the rest of the village to ensure a good harvest. The Hunger Games uses this lottery aspect, but it goes even further. What if whole nation had to participate? What if each district had to send two representatives, one male and one female? What if the chosen had to be children, ages 12-17? What if they were forced to kill the other lottery winners or die themselves? And, what if the whole nation was forced to watch it as a form of entertainment?

I must say, it was an interesting concept and I really felt for and connected with the characters. The first novel was well thought out and full of suspense, horror, and unlikely acts of kindness which showed the humanity of the contestants. The novel was thought provoking and while it takes place in the future it has ties to the past with the horror of pagan rituals. In truth, while it might not be happening here and now, it could happen. That is why the novel is so gripping and relateable.

However, while the first novel was a complete page turner the second and third novels were not up to par with the first book. They were good and did continue to show the horrors of human nature through a rebellion and war against the capital of this futuristic nation, but I had a hard time believing that one young girl became the face of the rebellion. However, after reading the books, i thought about it and there have been cases of this in the past. After all, Joan of Arcadia lead the French Army to many victories during the Hundred Years' War. So maybe it is plausible that Katniss, the young girl who won the Hunger Games through an act of rebellion, became the face of the rebellion against the capital. While it is a little hard to believe while reading the later books, it is not completely unprecedented.

The series is definitely noteworthy and one that I would recommend to others who enjoy YA novels that beg the question what if? Frankly, I am excited to see how they are going to turn these novels into movies. They will definitely be more gory then Harry Potter since there is no magical element and the children are being forced to kill other children. It could prove to be a very emotional film if done correctly.

Have you read The Hunger Games trilogy? If so, what did you think? If not, do you plan on reading the books or at least seeing the films?

Crazy, Stupid Love

2011-08-16T23:33:00.002-05:00

Last week, I went to see a movie that I knew little about. I knew the title of the movie, although I could never remember if Crazy or Stupid went first. I knew that Steve Carrell, Ryan Gosling and Julianne Moore were in it. I knew that it was a romantic comedy. And, well that's it. My cousin, who was moving to Indiana in two days, wanted to see it, so we went.

I was pleasantly surprised by the movie. Maybe it was because I didn't know anything about it before I went into the theater other than the title, genre and some of the cast but it was a fun movie. It did have a good twist in the middle which I sort of saw coming, but my cousin didn't have any clue until it happened. It was a good twist. A twist that made the movie in my mind. It also had a good fight scene, one that rivals Colin Firth's and Hugh Grant's in the Bridget Jones movies.

So, while it is probably not the Oscar winning film of the year or the highest grossing film of the year, it is a fun film and one that I think fans of romantic comedies should definitely check out. And yes, that is Josh Groban making an appearance in the film.

Oh and Ryan Gosling is hot in it! Like, hotter than he was in The Notebook. He owned that part and made it fun. I am not sure how he pulled that off, but he did amazing. Just saying...

Have you seen Crazy, Stupid Love yet? Have you seen any other good movie that I should check out this summer?

My Summer Reads

2011-07-08T21:56:00.012-05:00

It has been awhile since I posted, but my goodness this summer has been crazy. More so than most. However, I have got some good reading in. So if you are looking for any summer reading suggestions, I have a few.

1. Sarah MacLean. No, this is not the title of a book, but an author. This summer I read all four books that she has out and she is one of my new favorite authors. She has a YA book, The Season, and a romance series titles Love by Numbers (Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake, Ten Ways to Be Adored when Landing a Lord, and Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke's Heart). Her books are funny, witty and full of fun and exciting moments.

2. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë - I had seen movie versions in the past, but reading the book I realized how witty Brontë really was. The internal dialogue Jane had was amusing and fun and it is no wonder this book as become a classic. It does stand the test of time.

3. Midnight's Wild Passion by Anna Campbell - I happen to love stories where the hero falls for an unlikely woman such as a governess or chaperone. In this case he falls for the companion of a woman he is trying to ruin. Spraks do fly and Campbell always does such a good job with entertaining dialogue.

4. Unveiled by Courtney Milan - This one was fun because it had a heroine in disguise, who just so happens to be his enemy's daughter. I couldn't put it down, it was fun and fresh.

5. Rafe's Redemption by Jennifer Jakes. Jen happens to be a friend of mine and this is her first book. First of all, I was excited to read her first published novel and secondly, I couldn't put the thing down. I tend to read more regency books or ones with myth interwoven in them, but I was excited to read hers because it had been awhile since I found a good western. This one is a extremely good western! It starts out with a young girl auctioned off in the wilds of Colorado and a young man who just can't help but save her from all the rowdy and heinous men in town, not to mention her evil cousin.

Got Will and Kate?

2011-04-28T23:32:00.005-05:00

So the upcoming nuptials of Will and Kate, which will happen in approximately 4 hours, is finally, FINALLY here! I am getting royal weddinged out and I have been trying to avoid the media blitz so I wouldn't get sick of hearing about it. I was actually unsure if I would watch the big event. But then, I got to thinking. How many times does this happen in one's lifetime.

After all, Charles and Diana were married months before my birth and I was only five when Prince Andrew married Sarah Ferguson. Therefore this is the first time that I will see a royal wedding. Not to mention, this is THE ROYAL WEDDING, since William will be the future king and Kate will be his queen.

With that revelation, I decided I would stay up to watch the wedding. In a way, it is a historic event and I want to be a part of it. Even if that means watching at home in my PJs and sipping on some English tea. After all, I can sit here and make fun of all the funny hats. :)

Are you going to watch the wedding? Watch a replay? Or are you going to sleep through it and just watch the highlights on the news?

First They Killed My Father

2011-03-24T23:06:00.008-05:00

I read First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung a few years ago for one of my elective courses in my graduate school program. The title of the book is a little daunting because you know from the beginning this is not going to be a happy story. However, it is a very powerful and moving story. It is the true story of Loung and her family during the reign of the Khmer Rogue in Cambodia. What happened in Cambodia in the 1970s is very similar to the Holocaust in Germany.

I could not put the novel down. The author tells the story in such a way it fells like you are there with her and her family. She really makes the reader understand what happened to people during the reign of the Khmer Rogue. She does it in a way that is brutally honest, through the voice of her childhood self. I have now begun to teach this book in my own classes and many students that read it have told me it was one of the best books they have ever read. It is impossible to read this novel without having a changed perspective of the world.

Like any story from the Holocaust, it makes one question how any human could do this to their fellow man. However, unlike the Holocaust, what happened in Cambodia is not as widely taught in schools or talked about. Many of my students have never heard of what happened in Cambodia until we go over this unit in class. They are shocked that this even happened and more shocked that they have never heard of it before now. Her story is something that everyone should read at least once because he does demonstrate that genocide did not end with Hitler. It is still happening in the world and something does need to be done to stop it. Stories like Loung Ung's are just one step in the journey to educate people in the hopes that peace will eventually prevail.

Do you like to read memoirs? Have you read this novel before? If yes, what did you think of it?

To Kindle or to Nook, that is the question?

2011-03-19T12:18:00.005-05:00

Some of you may or may not know, but I recently moved this last week. While the new place is great, albeit a little smaller or so it seems with less closets, I love the new place. It is newer and nicer. However, as I moved up three flights of stairs, with the help of my parents and sisters, I came to two conclusions. 1. I have way too many damn books, and 2. Books are heavy.

Since I have no intention of reading less, I have decided that this is the year that I am going to invest in one of these new handy gadgets called e-readers.

However, I am also an indecisive person and so I need your help. Do I get the handy Kindle that so many people seem to adore or a Nook because you can buy one of them in color? Do you have either a Kindle or a Nook? What do you like/dislike about it?

Blog Ideas

2011-01-25T14:46:00.008-06:00

I love blogging, but right now I am a little burned out mentally because of some other stuff I have been working on. I am sort of on hiatus, I guess, but I will occasionally blog when the mood strikes. So, as of right now, I am not sticking to a schedule anymore. Just thought I would let you all know.

I hope you still check in once in a while to see if I have posted something new, but I won't do three a week anymore. Maybe I will just try to do one, once a week.

Hope you are all doing well.

Love,

Kasey

Fun Friday - The Big Bang Theory Edition

2011-01-07T22:26:00.008-06:00

Okay, well the truth is, I am sometimes attracted to the nerdy boys. I do like a guy that is very intelligent, but funny. This makes The Big Bang Theory one of my favorite shows and I just recently rewatched most of season one. However, Howard sort of creeps me out, he is the unequivocal geeky boy with too much confidence, or maybe just no boundaries. However, Raj with his inability to talk to girls is adorable and Leonard is, in a way, the bridge between the nerdy and the normal people. While he is smart and nerdy, he does understand, for the most part, normal social behavior. The one that kills me week after week, with his witty lines and idiosyncrasies is Sheldon. I admit it, I have a little crush on Sheldon. However, since I do not know how Jim Parsons is in person, I know my crush is solely on the character and not the actor. So without further ado, here is my tribute the the smart boys of The Big Bang Theory.

Do you watch The Big Bang Theory? Are you attracted to men with nerdish tendencies too?

What's Up Wednesday - New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-04T23:12:00.010-06:00

With a new year, comes the new resolutions. I have a few common ones and a few uncommon ones.

1. Finish my first manuscript. I have most of my first book plotted out, now I just need to buckle down and finish writing it.

2. Plan on a trip. I love planning vacations and trips and my friend and I are thinking of taking another awesome road trip this summer. I hope we can pull it off!

3. Lose 5-10 pounds. I just want to be more active and build some body tone.

4. Visit friends and make new ones. I tried to see my friends frequently and I made some amazing new friends in Florida last summer. I hope to continue to stay in touch with them and hope to make some more great friends this year.

5. Read 100 books (Okay, I have had this one for the past few years, and I may have done this when I was younger, but I never kept track. However, the last few years, I have always fallen short. One year by only 7 books, so I am keeping my fingers crossed that this year is the year).

What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Must Read Monday - A Most Scandalous Engagement

2011-01-01T21:57:00.003-06:00

For Christmas I got some new reading material; my family knows me so well. I have also had more free time so I have plowed through about four books in the last week and a half. So when writing this blog, I had choices to pick from of recently read books. I decided to cover Gayle Callen's newest novel, A Most Scandalous Engagement, which is the second novel in her Scandalous Lady series.

I really liked this novel, because the premise of the trilogy was interesting. It is three girls (two sisters and their cousin) and the three men that catch them in the act of stealing a painting from a gentleman's club. The men deduce that the woman posing naked in the portrait must in fact be one of the young misses and the wager on which one of them it could be. The second novel covers Lady Elizabeth and her childhood friend Peter. Peter is certain it is Elizabeth and decided to place his wager on her not only because he knows he is right, but because he has always saved her in the past and wants to protect her again.

Elizabeth feels that her childhood friend has changed over the past few years, but when another gentleman suspects her of being in the portrait and blackmails her, she runs to Peter for help. The two embark on a fake engagement, one that Elizabeth is determined to break after her blackmailer leaves her alone, but Peter has different plans. He intends to seduce Elizabeth and show her that their relationship is more than mere friendship.

This was a good story, because the sparks were flying even when Elizabeth thought they were only acting as if they were in love. It was well put together and the progression of their relationship is believable. The entire series has been a fun adventure this far and I would definitely recommend it.

What's Up Wednesday? - Christmas Music

2010-12-22T11:48:00.015-06:00

If you have been to the stores, malls, restaurants or have been listening to the radio in the car or at home, you will notice that with Christmas a few days away, that the Christmas music is in full force. So, today I am going to list ten of my favorite Christmas songs, both old and new.

10. "Christmas is All Around" - Billy Mack (Played by Bill Nighy), I love this song from Love Actually. I get it stuck in my head for days after watching the movie and it is really catchy.

9. "White Christmas" - Bing Crosby. Need I say more. :)

8. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" - Frank Sinatra or Judy Garland. I love both versions and it is such a great song.

7. "My Only Wish" - Britney Spears - It is just one of those fun songs that I remember from high school.

6. "Belleau Wood" - Garth Brooks. This song was not released but was on one of his CD Sevens. It is the beautiful story of the Christmas truce during World War I in which both sides sang Silent Night in their own languages together.

5. "Last Christmas" - Taylor Swift. I like the original version too, but I am a Taylor Swift fan so it is a guilty pleasure.

4. "All I Want for Christmas is You" - Mariah Carey, although the little girl in Love Actually rocked it too.

3. "Silver Bells" - Rosemary Clooney & Bing Crosby - it is just such a cute song and always has been one of my favorite Christmas duets.

2. "Silent Night" or "Stille Nacht" - I have no particular version of this song that I like best, but it is one of my favorite hymns. It is beautiful both in its original German and in English.

1. "O Holy Night" - There are also many beautiful versions in of this song and it is definitely my favorite one during the holidays.

Honorable Mention Holiday Song - "The Chanukah Song" Adam Sandler. It is just so funny, I had to put it out there.

It is hard to narrow down the list to 10, but I think I got most of my favorites on there!

What are some of your favorite Christmas songs?

Must Read Monday - Trial by Desire

2010-12-20T00:20:00.004-06:00

Trial by Desire is Courtney Milan's second novel and it is the story of Ned who has overcome depression and fought his own demons before returning to the wife he deserted after a few short months of marriage. Her dreams of their happy marriage were shattered and the novel picks up with his return to England. His young wife does not trust him and is hiding a secret from him. However, they still desire each other but he will not give in to that until she learns to trust him first, but will he trust her with his fears as well.

It is a well developed story and the characters are very interesting. The only complaint I had was that at times it seemed the story dragged and the characters over thought their actions too much, which added to the story's slower tempo. Even with though, the story was interesting and definitely worth checking out.

Have you read either of Courtney Milan's novels? What were your thoughts on them?

Fun Friday

2010-12-20T00:18:00.002-06:00

I didn't post a Fun Friday this week, but I think my post on my other blog will make up for it. There is alot of amazing hot santas to check out. Please visit the Ass Cheek Angel blog for more info. The picture on the side is just a little sneak peak of those on the blog. I hope you enjoy! Happy Holidays! ;)

What's Up Wednesday - Finals Grading

2010-12-14T23:17:00.005-06:00

I am a little tapped out right now, because I have a ton of grading to do this week. It is finals week and grades are due next Monday. So, enjoy the comic regarding grading below and I hope you are all having more fun this week than I am!

Must Read Monday - Rules of Engagemnt

2010-12-14T23:04:00.003-06:00

I know this is a little late, but I am a slow reader when finals week comes around and I try to review books I recently read.

Rules of Engagement is the third novel in Suzanne Enoch's Adventurer's Club series. These books are unique because they all contain tortured war heroes, however, in this third installment I felt that the tortured aspect of this hero was forced and it didn't really work for me. Captain Bradshaw Carroway has captured French pirates for the British Navy for years, however when his friend, the ship's doctor dies when commandeering a ship, he loses his lust for fighting. I understand how the death of a friend can cause a person to change, but I think ti would have been more dramatic if his friend was near by and suffered instead of died instantly. I don't know, but I thought he was overcoming general grief instead of his will to fight.

The heroine, Zephyr, was interesting and her character remained true to who she was. She was used to adventure and enjoyed it, but she didn't know she wanted more until she meet Bradshaw. I can see why he was attracted to her and vice versa. However, I think there should have been more development of the characters to keep me interested. The characters were a little flat compared to those of the other two Adventurer Club books.

It still was a good book, but I enjoyed the scenery of the islands, the discovery of new animals, the life on the ship, and the natives more than the development of the relationship between these two characters.

Have you read any of Suzanne Enoch's books? What are your favorites?

Fun Friday - Colin Firth

2010-12-09T23:35:00.018-06:00

I have loved Colin Firth since I first saw him in What a Girl Wants. He was equally as good as Mr. Darcy in the Bridget Jones movies, if not more brillant. Then, I discovered that he didn't just play Mr. Darcy in the Bridget Jones movies, but he was Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy in the BBC versioin of Pride and Prejudice years earlier and I had just never seen it. I got my hands on a copy and it was amazing. I am sure I was whipping the drool on my sleeve during the scene where he is all wet wearing that see throw white shirt. He is in my favorite movie ever, Love Actually, as well. Not to mention he is a very versitale actor, he plays a wonderful father in the first Nanny McFee movie, does a bit of singing in Mamma Mia, is a painter in Girl with the Pearl Earring, and plays King George VI in The King's Speech. I could gush about him all day, but he is truly and amazing actor and hot to boot. So, enjoy the pics and share your Colin Firth movie (or movies)!

Full Name: Colin Andrew Firth

Age: 50

Height: 6 feet 1 1/2 inches

Quote: "I like playing strange characters. Some people might say it has something to do with a hidden part of myself, but I think it's a lot simpler than that: normal people are just not very interesting.

Big Break: He was discovered while playing Hamlet during his final term at the Drama Centre in Chalk Farm. They chose him to play the role of Bennet in the West End production of Another Country and he was later chosed to play another character, Judd, in the film version.

Playing Currenlty: The King's Speech (which there is Oscar buzz for a Best Actor nom)

Up Next: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy with Gary Oldman and The Promised Land with Matthew Macfadyen (both Mr. Darcy's in one movie.....be still my beating heart). :)

What's Up Wednesday? - Holiday Movies

2010-12-07T17:07:00.012-06:00

I love Christmas movies and have since I was a child. It all started with specials such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. But my love for holiday specials over the years grew to include favorite movies. Each Christmas I get into the mood for movies that share the holiday spirit. Below is a list of my top five (I lumped sequels together).

5. Love Actually - it is a wonderful ensemble cast that show that love or Christmas is ALL around! I do love the song Bill Nighy sings, not to mention Hugh Grant's dance through the prime minister's residence.

4. Santa Clause and The Santa Clause 2 (I am not as found of the third installment). - A great children's story about believing in magic and the spirit of giving. Plus it is hilarious, especially Neil's face when he gets his weeny whistle.

3. Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York - What child doesn't dream of being home by themselves? However, this is one smart kid, but we feel his loneliness when he isn't facing cat burgers. At the end of each movie when he is reunited with his frantic mother, well, I still get teary eyes because he no longer has to spend Christmas alone.

2. White Christmas - What can I say? I love musicals and seeing Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye sing "Sisters, Sisters" still makes me laugh. It is a great movie full of wonderful music.

1. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - This movie has become a family tradition. Almost every year, a few days after Thanksgiving, my family whips out this movie and watches it together. It is hilarious, funny and at times, so true. While none of our Christmas gatherings have ever come close to that of the Griswolds, there are definitely times when their absurd antics are relatable. It shows that no matter how your family annoys you, makes you angry or does something incredibly stupid, that they are still your family and they will do anything for you given the opportunity. Hopefully not kidnap your boss, but after all, it is the thought that counts, right?

What are your favorite holiday movies?

Must Read Monday

2010-12-06T14:16:00.006-06:00

Sorry that my Monday blog was a little late. I caught up on grading this weekend and thought I would tackle The Girl with he Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. I wasn't sure about this book, mostly because all of the hype surrounding it and I while I sometimes manage to ignore the hype, I finally ended up picking up the book. I am really glad that I did! It was one of those page turners that I just couldn't put down. Well, technically I found the first 50-75 pages kind of boring, but once I got past the initial set-up of the story, I was hooked.

I just couldn't seem to put it down and when I did put it down, I was thinking about it and before I knew it, the book was back in my hands and I was devouring every word as if my life depended on finishing that book. I used to get into books like this all the time, but lately I can put a book down for days and then come back and finish it. I couldn't do that with this book. I NEEDED to finish it. I found that refreshing. I love when a book grabs my attention and does not let go.

Okay, enough gushing about this twisted mystery that, to me, read a little bit like the TV show Cold Case. Maybe that is why I loved this book so much, I can get sucked into that TV show unfailingly in the first 5 to 10 minutes and this book basically did the same thing.

I am excited to read the next two books. I find it really sad that the author died after turning in his third novel. He finished the trilogy, but never got to see how his books spiraled to such mega-hits. I heard they are making a movie out of them with Daniel Craig (the new James Bond), so I am going to have to put that on my to see movie list!

Have you read any of Steig Larsson's Millennium trilogy yet? If so, what did you think? If not, are you planning on reading it?

Fun Friday - Ryan Reynolds

2010-12-03T00:00:00.001-06:00

This young man has just been named People''s Sexiest Man Alive. I first noticed him on the sitcom Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place which was on TV when I was in high school. It only lasted a couple of seasons, but he was my favorite character and even then I knew he was going places. Since then he has become a successful movie actor in films such as The Proposal, Definitely, Maybe and Adventureland.

Full Name: Ryan Rodney Reynolds

Age: 34

Height: 6 feet 2 inches

Quote: "I never took acting classes, but I knew I could do it based on the skill with which I lied to my parents on a regular basis!"

Big Break: Appeared in Fifteen, a series on Nickelodeon

Up Next: The Green Lantern with Blake Lively and Most Wanted with Sandra Bullock and Lauren Graham.

What's Up Wednedsday - Will and Kate

2010-12-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am a little behind on news and all that because I was busy grading. Obviously I heard about the royal engagement, but I didn't catch up on some of the details until recently. I enjoy watching how the Royal Family changes with the times. They are definitely a family that puts a lot of stock in tradition and following protocol. However, it seems like the new generation is changing that.

After all, Kate is the first commoner to marry a royal prince who will become King of England in over 350 years. I find that to be quite impressive. It is also proof that the Prince William is not going to follow the tradition of his predecessors. One hopes that this means that he will is marrying for love unlike his parents. If so, this will be more like a real life fairy tale wedding then the one that his parents had. I am sure they will definitely be scrutinized more by the press in the following months leading up to their April wedding, but I hope the press takes it down a notch or two. I realize they are public figures and will be in the news, but I hope they will not be hounded the same way that Princess Di was. I remember feeling sorry for her many times and hope that Kate does not fall prey to them as well.

I also heard that the Queen Elizabeth II and other Royals are now on facebook. Even though I know it is not them personally checking the accounts and giving updates, that is very progressive of them and I applaud that they are reaching out the public. I have not added them to my facebook (I try to keep friend only people I have truly meet), but I still think it is a pretty cool idea.

What do you make of Will and Kate's upcoming nuptials? Do you think the changes the Royal Family is making is for the better?

Must Read Monday - Last Night's Scandal

2010-11-29T01:00:00.003-06:00

If you read last week's post, you would know I have been catching up on Loretta Chase's Carsington series right now. I have been looking forward to this book since it contains two characters who were children together in Lord Perfect.

Olivia and Lisle's book is titled Last Night's Scandal. When they were children, Olivia dragged Lisle on an adventure to find a secret treasure. He, being a practical young lad, went because he knew it was the honorable thing to do. After all, he could not let the young lady go off on a journey by herself.

Years later, Lisle returns from his adventures in Egypt and is reunited with his childhood partner in crime. His parents are intent on keeping him in England, while he plans on returning to Egypt as soon as possible. They give him an ultimatum, either renovate their Scottish castle or they are going to cut off his allowance.

Of course, Olivia has an idea to save the day. However, Lisle does not want to be dragged into another of her adventures. Olivia knows if she sets out to Scotland on her own (with chaperons) he will feel compelled to follow. After all, he is a gentleman first and he followed her once before. He receives her not hours after she has departed and he follows. Of course, once he catches up with her the sparks fly.

I enjoy a good reunited lovers story. Especially when they were childhood friends and once they return they are still friends, but there is a new attraction they must contend with. It adds a new dimension to the relationship because they have a past together. I especially enjoyed this book since we saw their past together in previous books. I knew that these two characters were prefect for each other then and was glad that they were able to get their own book and that Chase was able to write it so beautifully.

Have you read any of Chase's books? Do you enjoy stories about reunited childhood friends? If so, what is your favoirte?

Fun Friday - Harrison Ford

2010-11-26T00:00:00.003-06:00

I loved watching the Indiana Jones movies when I was a kid. I rewatched them over and over and wore out our VHS tapes. I loved Indiana Jones for three reasons: 1) I wanted to be him when I grew up and go on exciting adventures, 2) Or at least his daughter and get to tag along, and 3) his adventurous persona with is charming sense of humor and that crocked smile was just sexy. Hey, I knew that before I even turned ten. Therefore, he was probably one of my first crushes and remains today one of my oldest crushes I ever had. So today, we are honoring Harrison Ford. AKA, Dr. Henry (Indiana) Jones, Jr., Han Solo, Jack Ryan and Dr. Richard Kimble to name a few.

Full Name: Harrison Ford

Nickname: Harry

Age: 68

Height: 6 feet, 1 inch

Big Break: American Graffiti after four years of taking a break from acting. At the time he was working in carpentry.

Up Next: Currently starring in Morning Glory with Rachel McAdams and Diane Keaton. Next summer, he will star in Cowboys & Aliens with Daniel Craig.

By the way, if you are venturing out on Black Friday, maybe you should take a whip and were a fedora and leather jacket like Indiana Jones, because it is going to be a jungle out there!

What's Up Wednesday - Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T00:00:00.001-06:00

Naughty Things You Can Only Say on Thanksgiving!

1. Talk about a huge breast!

2. Tying the legs together keeps the inside moist.

3. It’s Cool Whip time!

4. If I don’t undo my pants. I’ll burst.

5. That’s one terrific spread.

6. I’m in the mood for a little dark meat.

7. Are you read for seconds yet?

8. It’s a little dry; do you still want to eat it?

9. Just wait your turn, you’ll get some!

10. Don’t play with your meat.

11. Just spread the legs open and stuff it in.

12. Do you think you’ll be able to handle all these people at once!

13. You still have a little bit on your chin.

14. I didn’t expect everyone at once!

15. How long will it take after you stick it in?

16. You’ll know it’s ready when it pops up.

Happy Thanksgiving and here's hoping you say something naughty tomorrow!

Must Read Monday - Not Quite a Lady

2010-11-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Last week, I read Loretta Chase's Not Quite a Lady. This is the fourth installment of her Carsington series and I must say, that they seem to be getting better and better with each book.

In this particular book Darius, a sworn bachelor is given a ultimatum by his father, make a property of theirs that has been idle for a decade because of a legal battle flourish in only a year or marry an heiress. Darius enjoys a good challenge and has no wish to marry so he opts to work on the neglected property. However, he does not count on the alluring next door neighbor whose secrets intrigue him or the her matchmaking father and stepmother.

I only discovered Loretta Chase's novels recently, but I must say she is fastly becoming one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to read the fifth Carsington novel, Last Night's Scandal, which highlights two youngsters who appeared in the previous book, Lord Perfect.

NOTE: By the way, if you didn't notice there was a change to my schedule. Please read the previous post. I have decided to cut down to three posts a week right now since I have a lot of other stuff going on.

Have you read any of the Carsington novel or any other of Loretta Chase's novels? Which are your favorite ones?

Announcement: New Blog Schedule

2010-11-21T00:00:00.004-06:00

I realize I just started this blog schedule about a month ago, but with grading and everything I am having a hard time keeping up. So, far I have been able to post every Mon-Fri, but I thought I would make things a little easier on me by cutting down to three days a week for now.

So here is my new blog schedule starting this week:

Must Read Monday - Book reviews of the books I am currently reading or of some of my past favorites.

What's Up Wednesday - This could be a lot of things. It could be what is going on currently in popular culture, the world, or my life. It should keep us both on our toes.

Fun Friday - You didn't think I would get rid of this one, did you? I will still post pictures of inspiring men for all of my author friends on Friday, because we all need a little eye candy to make the weekends more fun.

I think this schedule will be more manageable and I hope everyone understands. I may do a special edition posts if their is something else that I want to discuss, but for now I am going to see how this works out. Thank you for reading! ~Kasey

Fun Friday - Harry Potter Edition

2010-11-19T00:00:00.001-06:00

So in honor of Harry Potter week, we are going to have to look at the men from Harry Potter. I know the main characters are about eight-ten years younger than me, but that isn't too bad. However, if you go how old the characters are in the book, then well they would be my age because Potter was born in the same year as me, so it isn't pervy at all. However, will looking at the main characters actors/characters is important, there are some great actors who play their professors or mentors as well.

Daniel Radcliffe (Harry) and Rupert Grint (Ron) are the main male actors in the series. They do a successful job playing the title character and his closest male friend. While in real life they are not, how shall we say this, my cup of tea, I do love them in the series. To me they are Harry and Ron and they do a great job portraying the characters. After the movies came out, it was them that I saw in my head when I read the other Harry Potter books.

Robert Pattinson (Cedric Diggory) and Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) should also get honorable mentions. Pattinson plays the first character to die in the war against Voldermort and Felton plays Harry's archenemies in school with a misguided belief that things would be better if Voldermort were still around. Well, turns out he should be careful about what he wishes for.

However, the school boys are not the only great actors in the series. There is Alan Rickman who plays Professor Snape. First, of all I must say that I have loved Rickman since he played the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and said that he wanted to cut Robin Hood's heart out with a spoon, "Because it's dull, you twit. It'll hurt more." I was excited before the first movie came out that he was playing Snape, because no one plays a bad guy in quite the same way as Rickman does.

Harry's godfather and father figure is played by Gary Oldman (Sirius Black). When we first meet Sirius he is a convicted murder and he plays the part convincingly at first but once the story comes out about how he was betrayed, it is easy to see him as the kind man who was only trying to get to the truth in order to keep Harry safe.

There are more men that make this series great such as Oliver and James Phelps (George and Fred Weasley), Mark Williams (Mr. Weasley), David Thewlis (Professor Lupin), Robbie Coltrane (Rubeus Hagrid), Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy), and Kenneth Branagh (Professor Lockhart). Not to mention the addition of Bill Nighy (Rufus Scrimgeour) and Rhys Ifans (Xenophilius Lovegood). I look forward to watching these talented men play out the final scenes in the Deathly Hallows movies.

Travel Thursday: Platform 9 and 3/4

2010-11-18T00:00:00.002-06:00

Just in case you haven't heard yest, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 comes out tonight at midnight. I am planning on going!

So therefore today's travel destination relates to Harry Potter. When I was in London a few years ago, I made sure we had time to make a quick stop at King Cross's station so that we could check out Platform 9 and 3/4. I knew they had the platform marked, but was surprised to see the cart half in and out of the wall.

However, it made for a wonderful photo opportunity. My cousin and I had a fun posing both individually and together for these fun photos. We are both huge Harry Potter fans. After all, I completed my thesis on the series, so stopping there held a special meaning for me. After all, it was one of the barriers that allowed Harry to enter his magical word.

While we spent all of ten minutes at Platform 9 and 3/4, it was one of the funnest stops on the trip. It helps inspire imagination and bring to life the story that I have loved reading and watching over the years.

Have you ever went to see something fictional on a trip, but it was oh, so totally worth it?

What's Up Wednesday - Harry Potter

2010-11-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Since this week is Harry Potter week on my blog, I thought I would share the trailer with all my feellow Harry Potter fans. Why, you might ask. Well, because Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 comes out in theaters on Friday. I am really excited about this because I am a big fan and I even wrote my thesis for my MA on the Harry Potter series. So, for all my fellow Harry Potter fans, here is a trailer for the movie to help you get excited for it too!

I am hoping to go to the midnight showing. Is anyone else planning on seeing the movie in the theater, or are you waiting for DVD?

Tune in Tuesday - Mad About the Duke

2010-11-16T00:36:00.002-06:00

Elizabeth Boyle's newest book Mad About the Duke is another terrific read. It is the second book in the Standon Wives series, but in a way it is also book seven in the Bachelor Chronicles series, since the Standon Wives series is a spin off of the original series.

The book uses a duke in disguise plot line, which is good but since this is not the first time Boyle has done that in the Bachelor Chronicles series, I found it slightly redundant. Boyle also used this technique in Love Letters From a Duke where Thatcher was mistaken by Felicity as their new footman. He went along with it because his grandfather wanted them to marry and he felt he would learn the true Felicity this way.

However, in this series Elinor walks in and sees James wearing his brother's tattered jacket and sporting a black eye and immediately mistakes him for the solicitor that was supposed to help her friend out. James goes along with the ruse because he finds her interesting and low and behold she also catches her duke.

While both books have very similar plot lines, both were different in enough ways that once I got passed the similarities I found that the new book another fun duke in disguise novel. While I think it impossible that this could happen to two dukes who are known by many of the same characters, they both were fun and interesting and I would still recommend it. In fact, I would recommend both novels and all the other books in the series. Boyle writes fun and entertaining novels no matter if she recycles plots.

Have you read any of Elizabeth Boyle's Bachelor Chronicles novels? If so, what is your favorite?

Manic Monday: Harry Potter Top Ten List

2010-11-15T00:00:00.002-06:00

In case you haven’t realized it yet, I am a huge Harry Potter fan. So in honor of the upcoming release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, I thought it would be fun to post a Top Ten List similar to the ones you find on the David Letterman Show.

Top Ten Signs You are Dating a Wizard

10. He sends his owl to deliver his love letters.

9. He is confused by electrical devices.

8. Food magically appears on his table when he has you over for romantic dinners.

7. He always wants to take you for rides on his broom.

6. He is fond of muttering, “Those crazy muggles,” under his breath.

5. He likes to surprise you by suddenly materializing in a room.

4. He gets a kick out of transfiguring your dog into an ottoman.

3. You catch him talking to snakes in the backyard.

2. When you tell him to dress up he puts on brightly colored robes.

And the number 1 Reason.....

He is always poking you with his wand.

Fun Friday - Channing Tatum

2010-11-12T00:00:00.003-06:00

Here is an actor I have admired for awhile now. From the moment I saw him in films such as Step Up and She's the Man, I have thought he was a good actor with a VERY fine body! It was his prefomrance in She's the Man where he played the Duke in the updated version of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, when I knew he was an actor that could be going places. He did a great job in that movie in both his romantic and comedy scenes.

Therefore, it was no suprise to see him in big budget movies such as the film version of Nicholas Sparks's Dear John or G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra. I thought he did well in both films, but I liked him better in the action packed G.I Joe movie.

Here's a little trivia about the actor:

Full Name: Channing Matthew Tatum

Age: 30

Height: 6 feet, 1 inch

Big Break: A dancer in Ricky Martin's "She Bangs" music video.

Up Next: The Vow with Rachel McAdams, The Son with Al Pacino, and The Dilema with Jennifer Connelly (I am seeing a trend with The...).

Travel Friday - Palaces & Castles

2010-11-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

Ever since I was a little girl, I have been enthralled with castles. I loved their grandeur, their winding towers and staircases, the labyrinth of rooms, the balconies with a view and of course the large libraries. As I have gotten older, I still love all those things about them but I am more interested in the history of the castle or palace now. I think about the people who once lived their, what their lives must have been like, what they did in certain rooms and the parties they would host in the huge ballrooms or the gardens.

The first palace I visited was in Florence, Italy. Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace) was owned by the Luca Pitti, but was later purchased by the Medici family. The Medici family ruled Florence for generations until they unfortunately died out. The palace was later used by Napoleon as a base. In 1919, King Victor Emmanuel III gave the palace to the Florentine people and it is now open to the public (for a small fee) along with its beautiful gardens. While touring the art gallery the royal apartments and various other collections, it was easy to imagine what the palace would have looked like in its days full of people. Guests lounging around in various rooms with members of the family, servants running to do various chores and errands and maybe even a dog playing with some small children in the gardens why a nurse maid looked on. The famous Boboli Gardens are behind the castle and include various beautiful fountains, a trove of pathways to explore, beautiful views of Florence and an amphitheatre for plays and concerts.

Another palace that I have been fortunate to explore was Hampton Court built just outside of London where King Henry VIII resided much of the time. The palace is built in various architectural styles due to expansions that were added later to help it compare to France's Versailles. The palace contains beautiful stained glass windows, a beautiful chapel, medieval kitchens, and some amazing views of the garden. The garden has a long reflecting pool, amazing fountains, a maze, the Great Vine that still produces grape for the winery, and trees in the shape of mushrooms (they remind of me of the trees in Mario Bros.). I can imagine couples flirting under the rose arbor, getting lost in the maze and hiding in the conservatory.

These places bring my imagination to life and make me think of a time that has gone by and can never be recaptured again. The history of both the places and the people that lived their are interesting and exciting to learn about. There are other castles that I want to visit. For example, I have seen Buckingham Palace but I would love to go back to London in August when it is open to the public. There are many castles and palaces throughout Europe that I would like to visit yet, such as Versailles in Paris, Windsor Castle just outside of London, or Neuschwanstein (Fairy-Tale Castle) in Germany.

Do you enjoy visiting old castles or palaces? What are some of the places you have visited or which ones do you want to see?

What's Up Wednesday - Twitter

2010-11-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am a Twitter virgin no more. That's right this last weekend I broke down and got a Twitter account. I only have four followers so far, but I am already following about twenty-five people. It is an interesting way to keep up-to-date with authors, friends and celebertities. However, I am not sure if will ever replace facebook in my heart. I am a complete facebook addict.

So, if you want to follow me on Twitter, you can find me at: CLICK HERE! I promise I will follow you back. ;)

So, what do you prefer. Facebook, Twitter or are some of you styll using MySpace? What is your favorite and why?

Tune in Tuesday - The Devil Wears Plaid

2010-11-09T00:00:00.001-06:00

Teresa Medeiros has done it again! Her latest novel, The Devil Wears Plaid, is another great Scottish adventure. The hero Jamie Sinclair has a vendetta against Laird Hepburn; the two clans have been feuding for over 500 years, ever since the Hepburns threw their lot in with the English and forced the Sinclairs out of their castle. The Sinclairs have been hiding out on the mountain since, bidding their time until they can reclaim what is rightfully theirs.

Jamie Sinclair has taken over as the head of the Sinclairs and he has a plan. He plans on stealing old Hepburn's young bride from the church on the day they are married. However, Jamie does not know that Emma is more relieved to than worried to be stolen away at the moment. Not to mention, she is no simpering miss and challenges him at every turn. But before she can win his heart she needs to find the true reason that Jamie is so hellbent on getting revenge against Laird Hepburn.

It is a fun novel and the best stolen bride book that I have read in a long time! One of my other favorite stolen bride novels is The Wedding by Julie Garwood, which also takes place in Scotland. If you think about it that makes sense since since it is a Scottish tradition to steal the bride.

Manic Monday - Winning is Fun!

2010-11-08T00:00:00.001-06:00

I love winning stuff, I am not going to deny it. Free stuff is always much better than having to go out and pay for it. I love winning books, candy, and concert tickets. Yes, I have been one of those people lucky enough to call in and win tickets. Twice, in one month. I had to give my sister's name the second time because you can't win twice in the same month.

That was a good month. The first time I called in and won fifth row seats to see Gretchen Wilson. However, the second time I won I got to see Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The seats were not as awesome, but the concert was amazing!

However, that was about five years ago. I haven't won a concert ticket since. I have been lucky enough to win some books from some of my favorite authors (Eloisa James, Julia Quinn, Elizabeth Hoyt, etc.), but no concert tickets.

However, just last week I got news that I won a drawing to get tickets from a local radio station. It is not as exciting because the only way you can go to the concert is win them. It is a smaller concert with new artists, like The Band Perry, Jaron and The Long Road Home and a three more new artists that I do not know as well. However, I am still excited to win them and go see them next weekend. Especially since I love The Band Perry's song "If I Die Young" and Jaron and The Long Road Home's song "Pray for You." (Click on the song names to see the music video....you will NOT be disappointed).

Have you won anything lately? Isn't fee stuff always better? :)

Fun Friday - Chris Pine

2010-11-05T00:00:00.005-05:00

I have really enjoyed watching Chris Pine develop as an actor over the years. I first saw him in The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, and he made a great would-be prince. He also played the hippie son of Bill Pullman in Bottleshock. When I heard he was going to be Captain Kirk, in the new Star Trek movie, I was thought it was great casting. I must say he did not disappoint. He did a great job commanding the Enterprise. I am excited to see the sequel which they are filming now and will be out in 2012.

Full Name: Christopher Whitelaw Pine

Age: 30

Height: 6 feet, 1 inch

Degree: English from UC Berkley

Big Break: ER episode

Up Next: Unstoppable with Denzel Washington (Nov. 12), Singularity with Josh Hartnett, and This Means War with Reese Witherspoon and Tom Hardy

Travel Thursday - Statue of Librety

2010-11-04T00:00:00.014-05:00

Since it was election week I thought I would write about the Statue of Liberty, since it represents freedom. The statue was designed by Frédéric Bartholdi and was a gift to the USA from France. Many of you might remember that the French helped us win the Revolutionary War, so merci to the French.

I was fortunate to visit the statue on my senior class trip to New York City. It was our second stop in the city. Imagine, if you will, a bus full of senior high school students that left Friday night, spent all day Saturday running around Chicago. Saturday night, we were on a buss once again. Then Sunday morning, we rolled into New York City. That is right two nights (with no shower) we get off the bus only to get on a ferry. Our first stop was Ellis Island, where we were able to see where may of our ancestors passed through before entering the country. Then back on the ferry to Liberty Island.

My friends and I were excited because we though this would be one of the trips highlights and it didn't disappoint. We got in line in hopes of taking the winding staircase to the crown. While waiting in line we excitedly talked about finally getting a hotel room and who was going to shower first! Then, out of nowhere, my friend gets popped on by one of the sky rats, aka pigeons. We all laughed at her and other tourists joined in too. Luckily, it only got on her pants and someone had a Kleenex so she was able to wipe most of it off.

So, an hour later five unshowered girls and one with poop on her pants finally make our way up to security. As we enter the building we found out that they top is closed for the day. Boo! However, we did make it up to the pedestal. Ironically, we ran into people from my hometown on the pedestal. This is amazing coincidence considering I come from a town of 1,750 people. That just goes to show how small of a world it really is.

Anyway, all the side stories aside, the statue of liberty was really amazing and I am very glad I got to see it with all my friends. Even if we did not make it to the top.

Unfortunately, we were late for the ferry and had to take a later one back to our bus. Everyone had to wait almost an hour for us to show up because none of them attempted to go to the top or inside the statue at all. Suckers!

I do love history and the Statue of Liberty is an important symbol of American history. It represents our freedom, the freedom to vote, the freedom to speak our minds and make our voices heard. That is why it is one of my all time favorite statues.

Have you been to Liberty Island? Do you have a Statue of Liberty story to share?

What's Up Wednesday? - The Hobbit

2010-11-03T00:00:00.004-05:00

It is old news already that Peter Jackson is going to film The Hobbit, the prequel to the Lord of the Rings trilogy. However, it is the cast that has me all aflutter. Mostly because I heard the hunky British actor, Richard Armitage (from BBC's North and South and Robin Hood) will be starting as Thorin Oakenshield. For those of you who don't remember, Thorin is a dwarf. It may be odd that Jackson cast Armitage as a dwarf, but let's face it. The entire book is full of dwarfs and one little hobbit on a journey. So any eye candy were to be in the film, well one of the dwarves is going to have to provide it.

The other dwarves aren't that bad looking either. They consist of Rob Kanzinksy, Aidan Turner, and Graham McTavish. The role of the main character Bilbo Baggins will be played by Martin Freeman (the sex double from Love Actually). If you loo at the picture of him, I think he will make a very believable hobbit. It is also presumed that Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis will both reprise their roles as Gandalf the Grey and Gollum, respectively.

So all in all, The Hobbit is shaping up to have an interesting cast and hopefully the start filming soon!

Are you a fan of the Lord of the Rings novels? Are you excited to see The Hobbit turned into a film?

Tune In Tuesday - The Book Thief

2010-11-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

I have not had much time to read the past week, so I thought I would review one of my favorite books of all time. I read this one about two years ago and it is an amazing novel by Markus Zusak. The Book Thief is the story of a young girl in Nazi Germany who is forced to live with a foster family for her own protection.

Her step-mother, Rosa, is brash and ornery as hell, but has a heart of gold deep down. Her step-father, Hans, is kind, patient and quiet. Together the take this young girl, Liesel, into their home and raise her as if she was their own child.

The narrator is Death and who better to tell the story of war, than Death because he is everywhere. This may seem strange at first, and in a way it is. One piece of advice someone gave me and I will pass on to you is to give the novel at least 50 pages before you start to pass judgement on it. Once you get used to the writing style and narrator you will not be able to put the book down. Trust me! The story is full of love, heartbreak, the terrors of war and the family and friends that give people the will to live and push forward.

If you have not read this novel yet, I strongly suggest you do. It is usually found in the adolescent section of book stores but I know a lot of adults who have read it and claim it is one of their favorite books too. I am using it in my class for the second semester and my students are reading it now. I have gotten such positive feedback from them, many say it is the best book they have ever had to read for a class. So, if you haven't read it yet, I strongly recommend that you run out and read it immediately. Then report back to me and let me know what you think!

Have you read The Book Thief yet? If so, what did you think of the novel? If not, will you read it after hearing me gush about it?

Manic Monday - Taylor Swift

2010-11-01T00:00:00.002-05:00

My younger sister had me listen to Taylor Swift awhile ago and I was hooked. She has a easy voice to listen to, but it is really the lyrics that I love. They are very poetic and relatable.

Her second album, Fearless, is my favorite thus far. I love the song "Fairy Tale" becomes of the images it provokes as well as the references to great works of literature, like Romeo and Juliet.

Her new album, Speak Now, came out last Tuesday and I downloaded it from Amazon for $3.99 (you can't beat that)! I have listened to it a few times over the past two days while I have been grading midterm exams. I have to say it seems slower than her last one, but when she still has great lyrics that grab my attention at times. Since I was busy grading, I have not had the opportunity to listen to the CD with my full attention, but I do have a few songs already such as "Sparks Fly," "Mean," "Never Grow Up," "Better Than Revenge," and "Enchanted." The CD is another keeper for me.

Fun Friday - Sexy Vampires

2010-10-29T00:00:00.006-05:00

In honor of Halloween this weekend, I thought I would include some sexy Vampires. Right now, it seems like Vampires are all of the rage. Vampires have been around for a really long time and have shown up in myths and folklore for centuries.

However, it was in 1819, that the first short novel about the mythical creature was published entitled simply, The Vampyre. This inspired other novels, most notably Darcula by Bram Stoker in 1897.

Anne Rice helped make those blood sucking creatures popular in her Vampire Chronicles series. She began writing these novels in 1976 with the ever popular Interview with a Vampire and the latest novel came out in 2003. She made her characters LeStat and Louis not only appealing but sexy and smart. This was also shown in the movie staring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. She definitely broke the ground for series such as Twilight and the Sookie Stackhouse series.

The popularity of these novels inspired spin-offs that are emerging with vampires all the time. The Twilight movies are popular among teenage girls and their mothers alike. The series skyrocketed stars such as Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner and Kristen Stewart into stardom and making everyone argue whether vampires or wolves are more appealing by asking the question Team Edward or Team Jacob.

HBO picked up the rights to the Sookie Stackhouse series and renamed it True Blood. Not only does the series contain vampires, but shape shifters, werewolves, fairies and witches. Shows such as Moonlight, The Vampire Diaries and The Gates have followed. Not to mention movies such as Daybreakers, Let Me In and Vampires Suck which is a parody of all the vampire films.

Although, the myth of vampires has been around for a long time, it seems that humans still find them intriguing and attractive. There must be some appeal to them considering they are popping up everywhere and at the moment it looks like the sexy vampire is here to stay.

Are you a fan of vampires? What shows and/or movies are your favorite? And now for the most important question, are you Team Edward or Team Jacob?

Travel Thursday – The Tower of London

2010-10-28T00:00:00.004-05:00

Since it is Halloween, I thought I would discuss one of London’s most haunted buildings and one of my favorite places to visit in London: The Tower of London. Built in 1078, the Tower has seen its share of tragedy and had many reported “hauntings” as a result.

The Wakefield Tower is haunted by Henry VI, was murder there right before midnight on May 21, 1471 while he was kneeling in prayer by the Duke Gloucester (later Richard III). On the anniversary of his murder, Henry is said to appear and pace fitfully around the Tower for an hour or so, but at the stroke of midnight he slowly fades away to rest for another year.

The White Tower (one of the oldest and biggest towers), is said to be haunted by the “White Lady.” She was once seen waving to a group of children in an opposite building. Many of the Tower Guards have smelt a pungent aroma upon entering St. John’s Chapel that has caused them to vomit. This smell has been referred to as her “cheap perfume.” Other guards have stated that they have felt a “terrible crushing sensation” when they enter the room where Henry III armor is kept. Once they stagger out of the room the feeling retreats. One guard reported that he felt a heavey cloak thrown over him and as he struggled the cloak was grabbed from behind and pulled tight around his throat. He managed to break free and ran to the guardroom where he reported the ghostly attack. Another guard, Mr. Arthur Crick, took a break while making his rounds in the White Tower late one night. As he was sitting on a ledge massaging his sore foot he heard someone whispered behind him, “There’s only you and I here.” Crick replied, “Just let me get this bloody shoe on and there’ll only be you!”

The Tower Green has an unfortunate because of the famous executions that took place there. Both Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey ghosts reappear frequently However, Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury returns dramatically each year. She was executed unjustly by Henry III’s at age seventy-two. She refused to kneel at the executioner’s stone and said when asked, “So should traitors do and I am none.” When the executioner raised his axe she took off running and he chased her around the scaffold where he, literally, hacked her to death. On the anniversary of her death, it is said that her screaming ghost is chased by a ghostly executioner over the Tower Green.

Then there well-known story of Bloody Tower which received the name after the following events. When Edward IV died suddenly his two sons Edward V and Prince Richard were left in the care of the King’s brother Richard. Before the twelve year old Prince Edward had his coronation, his Uncle Richard had Parliament declare him and his brother illegitimate. This made their uncle King. King Richard III then had the boys sent to the Tower of London. The children were often seen playing happily on the grounds. Then, in June 1483 the little princes vanished. It was assumed that Richard ordered their death and that their bodies were buried somewhere on the grounds. In 1674, when renovations were being done to the White Tower, two skeletons were uncovered. They were presumed to be the two young princes and were buried in Westminster Abbey. However, it is Bloody Tower, the tower where they were held during their imprisonment, that people have reported seeing two children; both dressed in white nightgowns and clutching each other in terror. Some witnesses have felt such pity for the two little princes that they try to reach out and comfort them, but the two ghosts retreat against the wall and slowly fade into it.

The Tower of London is a amazing historical site and one that has a tragic history, therefore, it is not suprizing that there are so many reportings of hautings. While I have never seen a ghost myself, it is hard to believe that their is not some truth to some of the stories floating around.

Citation: Most of the information is courtesy of The Haunted Britian website and my own tour there.

Have you ever had an encounter with an otherworldly spirit? Or have you visited a place that has given off a vibe that ghosts might exist?

What's Up Wednesday? - History of Halloween

2010-10-27T00:00:00.003-05:00

The origin of Halloween can be dated back to the Celtic festival of Samhain. This day marked the end of summer and harvest, as well as the beginning of winter which was associated with death. They believed that on this particular night the boundary between the worlds of the living and dead was blurred. Therefore, they believed that the ghosts of the dead were able to return to earth in order to cause trouble and damage the crops. On the other hand, this made it was easier for the Druids (Celtic priests) to make predictions about the future which was usually comforting during the long, cold winters.

The Druids built sacred bonfires and the people burned crops and animals as sacrifice to the Celtic gods. The Celtic people would also dress in costumes, usually consisting of animal heads and skins and attempt to tell each other’s fortunes.

These celebrations lasted many years, but in 43 AD the Romans conquered the Celtic territory. In the 400 years that the Romans ruled, they combined their own traditions with those of the Celtics. The Roman holiday, Feralia, honored the passing of the dead. Another Roman festival in October was to honor Pomona (the goddess of fruit and trees). Pomona was symbolized by the apple and this is where the tradition of bobbing for apples began, which is now incorporated as part of Halloween.

By the 800s, the Christians began to influence the traditions as well. Pope Boniface IV designated November 1 to be All Saints’ Day to honor the saints and martyrs of the Catholic Church. He was attempting to replace the Celtic festival with a celebration called All-Hallows (Middle English for All Saints’ Day), and therefore the night before the first of November became known as All-hallows Eve and eventually Halloween. Around 200 years later, the church dedicated November 2 to be All Souls’ Day as a way to honor the dead. Its traditions were derived from the original Celtic tradition of Samhain, where big bonfires, parades and costumes (mostly of saints, angels and devils) were used to celebrate the day.

Halloween spread to America via the European immigrants who brought their costumes with them. In the colonial period, Americans put their own spin on the celebration by holding “play parties” or public events they were held to celebrate the harvest. Neighbors would share stories of the dead, tell each other’s fortunes, dance, and sing.

These annual festivals were common but Halloween was not celebrated everywhere in the US yet. It was when the Irish potato famine immigrants fled to American in the mid-1800s that Halloween really took off. Americans began following the Irish and English tradition of dressing in costumes and going from house to house to ask for food and money. This was the beginning of trick-or-treating. Predictions were once again popular among young women who would try to divine the name or appearance of the future husband by doing tricks with yarn, apple parings or mirrors.

In the late 1800s, there was a move to revamp the holiday so that Halloween was more about neighbors getting together instead of ghosts, pranks and witchcraft. Therefore, there were more community parties instead of trick-or-treating.

However, it was during World War II that trick-or-treating re-emerged with a vengeance. This was partly due to the sugar rations. Children would go from house to house in the hopes of getting candy instead of just food or money. Many people supplied the candy because they did not want a trick to be played on them. Over time this tradition continued and neighbors kept providing the children with treats. Today, Americans spend approximately $6.9 billion each year on Halloween, making it the second largest commercial holiday behind Christmas.

Pretty cool how Holloween has evloved over the years and become the holiday that we celebreate today.

Citation: Most of this information is courtesy of This History Channel website.

What is your favorite Halloween tradition or childhood memory?

Tune-in Tuesday - A Hellion in Her Bed

2010-10-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

I have been reading Sabrina Jeffries's books for a while now. What I love about her books is that they all seem to be connected somehow. In fact, characters from her Royal Brotherhood series, appear in her School for Heiresses series and characters from her School for Heiresses series are in her new series, The Hellions of Halstead Hall.

A Hellion in Her Bed is the second book in The Hellions of Halstead Hall series. The series is great because the five siblings have all sworn that they will never marry because of the turmoils marriage their parents had. However, their grandmother, who was their guardian after the parents tragic death, has stated she will disinherit all of them if they do not marry before the year is up.

The second book, looks at Lord Jarrett, a confirmed bachelor, gambler and all around hellion. He makes an agreement with grandmother who is under the weather that he will run her brewery for her for a year if she will let him out of having to marry over the next year. She reluctantly agrees. However, not long after Lord Jarret arrives he has a run in with a female brewster who needs his help and the sparks fly.

As usual, Miss Jeffries does not disappoint. It is fun and fast paced story with sexual tension, risque bets and secrets.

So, have you read anything by Sabrina Jeffries before? What is one of your favorite Jeffries's novels? Have you read her latest, A Hellion in her Bed, yet?

Manic Monday - Mixed Signals

2010-10-25T00:00:00.004-05:00

Maybe it is just me, but I think men send out more mixed signals then a traffic light on the fritz. From my experience and those of other women I know, it seems like some men have all the time in the world for you only when it is convenient for them. For example, if a friend happens to call, they tend to run off.

Then there is the fact that some of them discuss other girls with you. Does this mean that they are making it clear that they are not interested in you? Or, is this some weird tactic to demonstrate that other girls’ have wanted them and that you should too.

I know I am not the only one to come across this issue. I have discussed it with some of my friends and my sisters as well. Trust me, I know men are not perfect, but there are times I wish they were like the men in the novels; sure of what they want and a hell of better at demonstrating it. Of course, if they cannot be like the men in the books, I wish they were at least as easy to read as a book is.

Have you ever encountered a case of a man sending mixed signals?

Fun Friday - Johnny Depp

2010-10-21T21:49:00.006-05:00

He is one of Hollywood's most popular actors. He has been People's Sexiest Man Alive, twice. He is not afraid to take risky roles. Sometimes he takes a normal role and turns it into a risky success. I am talking about none other than Johnny Depp. AKA, Captain Jack, Ichabod Crane, Edward Scissorhands, the Mad Hatter, John Dillinger, Willy Wonka, Sweeny Todd, Don Juan, Gilbert Grape and J.M. Barrie. He has taken on some interesting and fun roles and no matter what, he always gives them a good dose of sex appeal. So without further adieu, here's Johnny!

Travel Thursday - My First European Vacation

2010-10-21T00:00:00.005-05:00

For those of you that do not know me that well, I am a travel junkie. I love to go off and explore new places. I also love history, so the older the place the better! That is why when I got the opportunity to go to Italy in 2007, I jumped at the chance. I had always wanted to go to Europe and I thought this was a golden opportunity.

The big day finally came, and after the long plane ride with a 3 hour lay over in Amsterdam we arrived in Bologna, Italy. I don't know about you, but I cannot sleep on an airplane. I do get some quality reading done though, but no sleep. So I was exhausted when I got there and since I was with a group, we had a tour immediately after landing. We called it the March of the Dead. People were literally sleeping on their feet. When we stopped in a cathedral, one or two of the group members resting in the pews were sawing wood. I didn't sleep, but I was just a few hours away of passing out from exhaustion myself.

I don't know if was the lack of sleep, but I was not impressed with Bologna. I was seriously thinking, if the rest of Italy is like this then I am never coming back. Since, I was not enthused with the city on my free day I went off with a bunch of people to the small town of Ravenna. I am so glad that I did, it started to redeem my first day experience for me. We had fun looking at mosaics, eating pizza and gelato and met some cute Italian guy on the way home that told us how to get to some of the bars which definitely helped make Bologna more fun.

However, it was the third day in Italy that made me fall in love with the country. I was walking down a street in busy Florence. The street was so busy we were going single file and one of our tour leaders was a few people behind me told me to keep going. I lead our group of people down the road, weaving in and out of other people, cars and vendors. Suddenly, I stopped in my tracks and the girl behind me ran into my back and said, "Oh, my."

I replied with a, "I know!" It was one of those heart stopping moments. What had so taken our fancy? It was the Basillica di Santa Maria del Flore, or better known as the Duomo. It was so much more colorful in person then I imagined, not to mention it was huge. I thought I would see it blocks before we arrived, but I just turned a corner and it was right there, standing directly in front of me. I will probably discuss it more in depth in a future travel blog, but it was one of the first places I saw in Europe that gave me that "wow" feeling.

It was also the moment I started falling in love with Europe. I have been back twice, once to London and then to Italy again. I was lucky to visit completely different places the next time. I have a lot of Europe stories, and I will be sure to share them in future blogs.

Have you ever fallen in love with a place? Where and when?

What's Up Wednesday? - 80s Remakes or Sequels

2010-10-20T00:00:00.001-05:00

There is a new epidemic in the film industry. It seems that either the writers are out of new and original ideas or they just want to reinvent the movies they loved as a kid. It is probably the later, but it is interesting to see all these 80s movies that are either being re-imagined or continued.

For example, recently a new Indiana Jones movie was released. While I was glad to see Harrison Ford back in the hat with a whip attached to his hip, I was not impressed with the new sequel. To me, Indy was about legends and myths of the past, not aliens in South American pyramids.

They also recently remade The Karate Kid with Will Smith's son. I have not seen this (it is on my Netflix list), but I have heard it is good and possibly better than the original. I know they tried this tactic before with Hillary Swank in The Next Karate Kid, but if I recall that was a dud at the box office. I remember it as being a mediocre film.

However, new 80s remakes are in the works. I know they are planning a Ghostbusters III and from what I heard they are going to do a new generation of Ghostbusters. Supposedly, little Oscar (Sigourney Weaver's son) is growing up and is the newest Ghostbuster, but all the original cast mates are supposed to play a part or at least have a cameo of sorts.

Just this week, I have heard rumors of a new Top Gun movie with a similar twist. Tom Cruise will be in it with a lesser role, and it will revolve around new recruits. Perhaps Cruise will be an instructor since at the end of the original they gave him the option to go back to Top Gun and teach.

So what do you think, should the be allowed to remake 80s movies or should the leave a classic alone?

Tune-In Tuesday - Seven Secrets of Seduction

2010-10-19T14:00:00.002-05:00

Anne Mallory's newest romance, Seven Secrets of Seduction, is an intense tale of a Viscount author who sets out to seduce Miranda Chase, a bookshop girl. It is clear of the bat that these two can both hold their own in a battle of the wills. However, the hero was almost too overbearing at first. In fact, for the first 100 pages I hated him as a person (that is if he were real). I found him annoying, too arrogant and way to full of himself and his powers of seduction.

However, he slowly, and I mean slowly, won me over. While he was wooing Miranda and his motives began to change over the course of the book he started to win me over as well.

It is ironic because, during the first third of this book I was convinced the hero would never redeem himself. I even contemplated putting the book down and starting something else, but I am glad I stuck with it. I think it takes a true talent to be able to change the reader's opinion of the hero halfway through the book and Mallory did that well. I went from hating this book to loving this book and I will give you the advice I wish someone had given me. Stick with it and you may be pleasantly surprised.

Have you read Seven Secrets of Seduction yet? What did you think? Have you any of Anne Mallory's other novels?

New Blog Schedule

2010-10-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

One of my blog partners, Jennifer Jakes, from the Ass Cheek Angels blog came up with a schedule for her personal blog. It is a wonderful idea and I thought I would try to come up with a schedule too. This is perfect because the schedule might help me blog more often and will help me stay focused about what I am blogging about. So starting tomorrow, this will be my new blog schedule:

Manic Monday - Let's face it, Mondays are hard enough without having a schedule, so anything can appear on Monday.

Tune in Tuesday - New releases always come out on Tuesdays, so I thought I would post my book reviews on Tuesdays. Not all books will be new, but hopefully some of them will be new to you.

What's up Wednesday? - This can relate to anything with pop culture such as movie news, news on upcoming novels, television shows, scandals or anything new in the media.

Travel Thursdays - I love to travel and I thought this would be a good spot for travel tips, stories or facts.

Fun Fridays - Here I will post hot guys because we could all use a little eye candy to get us in the mood for a fun weekend.

I will see how this goes for a couple of weeks. If I decide to change one of the days, I will let everyone know, but hopefully this schedule works out for awhile and I can stick with it. :)

Artemis Fowl

2010-10-13T02:00:00.001-05:00

I have been reading the Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer for awhile now. The first book is my favorite! The story was fun and refreshing. It starts out with a young Artemis, who is an Irish teenage criminal mastermind. His father turns up missing and it is up to him to continue the family name by following the criminal path that his ancestors used. Even though he is young, he is definitely up to the job with the help of his bodyguard, Butler. It just so happens that young Artemis is so clever that he has found out something that no other human has discovered in hundreds, if not thousands of years: Fairies do exist! Artemis tracks them down and kidnaps one and holds her for ransom. Although, he just may have underestimated their powers and drive. But never fear, because young Artemis still has a few trick s up his sleeve.

While the series has been good, nothing beat the book that hooked me on the series. While some young adult serieses get better as they go along, like Harry Potter, it seemed to me the Artemis Fowl series was losing momentum, especially after the last three books. There were some great moments in the novels, but over time they became forgettable. None of them stuck with me like the first book did. So, I picked up the latest novel, Artemis Fowl: The Atlantis Complex with some mixed feelings. I was wondering if I just wasted my money and if this one was going to be worse than the last or would Eoin Colfer redeem himself with the new book. Well, in some ways he did redeem himself. Artemis is changing for the good and becoming more conscientious of what he does. He is no longer the criminal type. Instead, he is helping to keep the fairies protected but after stealing some of their magic in an earlier novel, he succumbs to one of their diseases, known as the Atlantis Complex. While the story is fast paced and fun like the original novel, I miss the old Artemis, the evil and manipulative Artemis. I understand the character needs to grow and change over the series, but I hope after they cure Artemis of the complex that he returns with some of his old charm and bad boyishness in the next novel. I guess we will find out when book eight comes out in the next year or so.

Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage

2010-10-12T09:27:00.002-05:00

I had never read a novel by Jennifer Ashley until last year when I heard many different people how wonderful her first Mackenzie novel, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, was. So, I went out and picked it up and it lived up to my high expectations. When I found out it was going to be a series and she was going to write a novel for all four brothers, I knew I was going to have to read those as well.

So, I was definitely excited to get my hands on the sequel, Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage, Which is about Ian's older brother Mac and his estranged wife Isabella. The two married young and hand a tremulous marriage over the course of three years after which she left him and obtained a legal separation. The book picks up three and a half years after they separated and Mac decides he is tired of waiting for his wife to come back and he follows her to London. Throw in a man who is impersonating Mac and forging his artwork and the novel also haves just the right amount of mystery or subterfuge. Not to mention all the sparks that fly when Isabella says she wants to pose nude for one of Mac's risque portraits.

It was a great follow-up to the first book and I cannot wait to get my hands on Lord Cameron's novel next year!

His at Night

2010-10-03T23:02:00.002-05:00

I have read reviews of His at Night that dis the fact that the hero, Lord Vere, is playing the part of the idiot. However, I disagree. I like it because it adds a touch of mystery and fun to the book. It is clear early on that he is a spy and because of his pretending to be dumb, the people of the ton do not take him seriously. This allows him to have an excuse for wandering into a places he should not be and for overhearing things that should not be heard. Not to mention he does it so well, that it adds humor to the story. It is a great romance, but one that contains elements of fun and humor.

After all, Shakespeare made it popular to have characters pretend to be someone who they aren't. Think Taming of the Shrew in which Viola plays the part of her supposedly lost at sea brother, Sebastian. Most people would not mistake a woman for a man, even in costume, however the audience just does because they know what is really going on. The same can be said for Lord Vere, we know he is not an idiot but the cast does not know it, so when reading it just go along for the ride and have fun!

I love a good romantic romp and this book delievers. The part with the rats was hilarious. Not to mention the singing scene or the one where he pretends to mistake the heroine's room for his own. Don't get me wrong, the book is not all fun and games but it is a great combination of humor, romance and mystery and it should be enjoyed for the fun adventure it is.

Sherry Thomas is a extraordinary writer and each book is unique and appealing. If you have not read any of her books yet I do suggest picking up His at Night or my favorite of hers thus far, Not Quite a Husband.

I Kissed an Earl by Julie Anne Long

2010-09-27T23:37:00.002-05:00

"I kissed an earl, and I liked it," is what runs through my head every time I think of the book's title. Catchy, isn't it? I only wish I had kissed an earl, however the heroine, Violet Redmond, kisses one enough for all of us in Julie Anne Long's newest Pennyroyal Green novel, I Kissed an Earl.

If you haven't read any books from the series yet, I will give you a brief update of what the series is about. There are two major families that live in the Pennyroyal Green area, the Redmonds and the Everseas, who have been feuding for generations and each generation is cursed to have one Redmond and one Eversea fall in love with each other but it never works out. In this case it is Lyon Redmond and Olivia Eversea. All we know about them is that there was something that tore them apart and Lyon disappeared and no one has seen him since.

That is until Violet Redmond thinks the newly titled Earl Ardmay, who is searching for a notorious pirate, is actually after her missing brother. She decides to put a monkey wrench into his plans by stowing away on his ship in hopes of protecting her brother from the new earl. Well as the title suggests, there are many sparks and kisses between the two of them and it makes for an interesting sea voyage.

I really enjoyed the new addition to the Pennyroyal series. It was a fun adventure story at the high seas and both characters grow and learn more about themselves as they learn about each other. Not to mention, Long gives us more information on what happens between Lyon and Olivia and well, I can't wait until I can read that book!

New Fall TV Season

2010-09-22T17:10:00.000-05:00

I love fall, not just because the leaves change color and I can wear jeans and a nice sweatshirt and walk in the cool breeze, but because the new TV season starts! So, I thought what best to talk about then the new shows I am watching and the ones that I was most looking forward to returning.

1. Hawaii Five-O – I remember seeing some reruns of the original show when I was younger and loving the set. Heck, part of the reason I loved Fifty First Dates was because in Hawaii. I definitely want to go there someday. It doesn’t hurt that the new cast includes hotties such as Alex O’Louglin and Scott Cann. Both who I have seen before in movies and enjoy watching, not just because they are both easy on the eyes, but because they both are good at such witty banter. It makes them so much fun to watch and these men did not disappoint in the television remake. In fact, I love it more than the original.

2. The Big Bang Theory – How can you not love this show? It is so funny and full of wonderful geek humor, which I feel I can relate to. While they are science nerds, I am a complete book nerd and feel like I have some things in common with these men. While I do not have set nights in which I order Chinese or play classic Nintendo games. I do enjoy watching movies like Lord of the Rings (LOTR), playing classic Nintendo games (but mostly I play them during snow storms), or going to a good Renaissance Festival (I love the one they have every fall in Minnesota). My favorite character is Sheldon, partly because he is way over the top, but in a good way. He makes me laugh every time and he plays his part so well. He has a statistic or fact regarding EVERYTHING! I think everyone can find a character in the show they can relate to somewhat, because let's face it. Whether we admit it or not, everyone has some nerdish qualities these days.

3. Project Runway- Besides the Amazing Race this is the only reality show that I have ever watched consistently. I like reality shows where the contestants are given challenges and rewarded or voted off based on their talent or luck. In a way these are more like glorified games shows and that is why I like them. Plus the judges’ comments are funny and interesting on Project Runway and I agree with them most of the time. It is a fun reality show and the challenges are always full of surprises. My favorite challenge this season is when they had to make something that a person would really wear out of an old hideous bridesmaid dress. Not to mention I love when Tim Gunn comes to critique their work, “It looks like she’s wearing a diaper,” and of course “Make it work.”

4. The Gates – I know this show was on this summer and that the season finale was on Sunday, but I had to mention it because I am hooked. I cannot wait until ABC brings it back. Hopefully, the bring it back mid-season. It is a great show because it includes so many elements of other famous shows. It has the supernatural creatures of True Blood, the drama of Desperate Housewives and a little bit of a detective show thrown in. It is the best of all three. I like True Blood but since I don’t get HBO, I have to wait until DVD and it is just not the same as being able to watch new shows like this! Plus there are a lot of cute guys on this show!

5. Grey’s Anatomy - I am looking forward to this one tomorrow night too. I know a lot of people stopped watching the show, and I agree the last few seasons have not been the best. They are trying to force to many issues and it lost some of that fun they had the first few seasons. However, that being said, I still watched it faithfully. Then at the end of last season, the show took me completely off guard when a man who recently lost his wife came and started shooting surgeons in the hospital. It was an intense episode and I am curious to how they are going to deal with the aftermath.

So those are the shows I am most looking forward to this new TV season. I am also looking forward to some post-season baseball! My Minnesota Twins clinched the AL Central division title last night. The are the first team to clinch a division title this season. Way to go Twins and I look forward to some great post-season games!

My Reckless Surrender

2010-09-15T23:15:00.002-05:00

Anna Campbell is an auto-buy for me. She only has a handful of books out but I have liked them all. In fact, Untouched is one of my all time favorites.

I was excited to get my hands on her new book, My Reckless Surrender, this summer since I have loved her other novels. It is a great book but not my favorite. The book starts out interestly enough but somewhere in the middle the story seemed a little off.

From the beginning of the novel, I could sense hero and heroine's sexual tension and their mutual respect for each other. However, half way through the book the heroine leaves because she has betrayed the hero from the beginning. However, I feel that he forgives her too easily. What she has done should throw all his trust in her out the window and yet he is the one that fights to get her back while she gives up. It just felt wrong to me. Why I know what the author was trying to do, the last 50-100 pages felt a little forced to me and unlikely. I still love Anna Campbell's voice and writing style and will definitely pick up her next book, but this one wasn't my favorite. While it wasn't my favorite there were things I liked about it, for example, the scene in the British Museum. That was a great one since they has not seen each other for a few days. So while this book was not my favorite Anna Campbell novel, it is still definitely worth checking out.

Have you read any of Anna Campbell's novels yet? If so, what was your favorite?

Writer's Camp?

2010-09-11T19:17:00.000-05:00

Today I was watching Project Runway and it got me thinking. What if they did something like that for us aspiring authors? Wouldn't it be awesome to be sent away with a laptop and nothing to do all day but work on your novel? It could be like a camp with some sort of contest twist.

I think two weeks to a month would be great and then each week judges would give us a critique on the work we have done so far. There could be challenges of sorts. It might not be television worthy, but I think some time away from distractions, work, and a contest incentive would be awesome.

But then again, that was just my random idea of the day. :)

Reading a Series

2010-08-31T11:02:00.001-05:00

I know a lot of series books are written so you do not have to read them in order, especially with the Romance genre. However, I am always compelled to read them in order. When I first started reading series novels, this did not bother me so much. I could read them out of order, backwards and years apart. Now, the idea of reading a book out of order makes me cringe. Sometimes I do it accidentally, but thanks to the Internet, I usually look up the book before I read it to make sure there are not any books that precede the one I am about to read. Then if there are books before it, I have to get them before I can read the book I already have in my hand.

For example, I heard great things about Loretta Chase's Lord Perfect. I looked it up and discovered there are two books in the series before this book, which are Miss Wonderful and Mr. Impossible. I then went to Amazon.com and ordered all three of them. I finally got around to reading them this summer and just last week finished Lord Perfect, which was probably the best book in the series, but the other two were good too and I was glad to have read them in order.

However, while I was reading this series, I was at Wal-mart picking up some essentials and I made my mandatory stop in the book aisle and saw a new book by Loretta Chase which is titled Last Night's Scandal. I picked it up on an impulse. Turns out this is the fifth book in the series I have already been reading and I met the main characters in Lord Perfect. While I am super excited they got their own story, I can't read it yet!

Why? Because I am missing book four! So before I can read this one I have to track down Not Quite a Lady and read that first. Ah, the perils of wanting to read about your charters' lives in order. Oh well, for me it is totally worth it.

Do you have to read a series in order or do you read them as you find them?

The Long Journey Home

2010-08-26T00:34:00.001-05:00

I recently read Cold Mountain because I heard all these great or interesting things about the book. The plot was good, albeit rather slow. It dragged out at times. I like books that keep going, that are paced well. This one had a ton of description. Description bogs things down for me. Although, sometimes the language was rather beautiful and it would stop me in my tracks and I would think, wow that was a great descriptive detail or I wish I had written that.

Like I said, the story was an epic tale of love and war. Inman deserts the army instead of returning to the Confederate line after recovering from a neck wound. His only thought is to return home to his love, Ada. He encounters many obstacles along the way.

The story has been compared to Homer’s The Odyssey and I can see the comparison. After all both men are on their way home after leaving a war are bound and determined to get home to their lady loves. Both men have to overcome delaying and deadly obstacles to reach their homes. However, Odysseus meets mythical creatures and gods that both deter and help him on his way. Inman’s deterrents and helpers are all too human, but still as deadly or helpful. Odysseus does not embark on his journey alone; he has an entire crew at his disposal and a ship to take him home. Inman makes the journey, for the most part, by himself and on foot. It is interesting to see how much in common the two books have.

Both novels are great in their own right; however, I like The Odyssey more because of the mythological aspects in the novel and the action is more intense. Not to say that Cold Mountain lacks action, but I got bored with the description in-between the action. Some of the description was beautiful, but there was too much of it and the story was almost lost in it. The last hundred pages were better, perhaps because the hero and heroine finally were reunited on the page, but still it seemed to take an awful long time for them to get there.

I saw the movie of Cold Mountain awhile ago. I don't really remember it well, but I know it was good, but I remember thinking it was a little slow moving too. Oh, and there was another thing that annoyed me about the book. Was the author too lazy to use quotation marks when writing dialouge? Seriously, it is not that hard.

Have you read/seen Cold Mountain? What did you think of the book/movie?

Let the School Year Begin!

2010-08-23T12:06:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day school. While, I am not exactly excited to start another school year, I must admit there is something exciting about the first day of school.

Personally, what does it for me, is all the school supplies. I love back to school shopping. I can’t go a single year without going up and down the school supply aisles when I am in a store. I love the smell of new notebooks, fresh textbooks, newly sharpened pencils. Well, you get the idea.

I remember getting ready for the first day of elementary school and packing up my book bag the night before school started. Carefully putting in my new pencils, pens, crayons, colored pencils, and Elmer’s Glue in a nice new pencil box, and adding to that new folders and notebooks and tennis shoes and a for gym class. I would then attempt to go to bed early since I had to be up before the butt crack of dawn the next day, but instead I would lie in bed and stare at the ceiling because I was so excited to see my friends the next day.

I would wake up early and don my new school clothes to mark the occasion. Crisp new jeans, a brand new shirt and new shoes, grab my bag and run down the lane to catch the bright yellow school bus that was already coming down the road.

Then it was off to school, find my new locker, classroom, and reconnect with friends I hardly saw over the summer.

Yes, the first day of school was fun, exciting and new. What is or was your favorite thing about the first day of school?

And for your enjoyment on the first day of school, here is a little Adam Sandler from Billy Madison singing back to school:

Warriors

2010-08-17T16:01:00.001-05:00

This last week I have been trying to watch the series Spartacus: Sand and Blood. Netflix was going to take it off instant play and so I watched it in-between getting things ready for my fall classes. I finished it today and it was bloody, vulgar and full of intrigue, which made the entire series fun. Not to mention there were a lot of hot guys walking around in very little. It was an inspiration (for my writing) to say the least. I love being immersed in other times and places and this series did that for me. It brought to life another culture and time and while they took some liberties with the story (obviously because little is known about the real Spartacus except for some basic facts), it was a good portrayal.

The creators of the series did show how the gladiators were loved by the people, and how fickle that love of them can be and how easy it can be turned towards someone else. Sports are not as bloody these days, since fighting to the death has thankfully been banned, but the fickleness of fans is still in place. Athletes are still loved by the fans but when they move from one team to another loyalties of the fans change.

Take Brett Favre for example. I am from Minnesota and for many years good ole number 4 was our archenemies. However, the minute he stepped foot in Vikings' territory, he was no longer hated by loyal Vikings fans but he was revered instead. Today, all of Minnesota is aflutter because Brett Favre was rumored to be heading to Minnesota. Last I heard, he has arrived and we are all keeping our fingers crossed he is back for good.

He is our team leader, our hope for finally winning a Super Bowl, and in a sense, our fearless gladiator. Here's to hoping he is back for another season and can lead our purple and gold to victory!

Who is your favorite athlete?

Regency Men

2010-08-13T12:55:00.000-05:00

Okay, I know I have been posting a lot of videos lately. However, I am on a YouTube kick right now, and I just can't seem to help it. The next video has one of my favorite songs in it (the original is by Bonnie Tyler, but I almost like this version by Jennifer Saunders better), and it showcases Regency movies with some of my favorite scenes and actors. I write historicals and love reading them, so that must mean I love historical movies. Which is very true. This video contains some of my favorite scenes from some of my favorite movies and that is probably why it helps get me in the mood to write. Not to mention a lot of these guys are very easy on the eyes. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. :)

It is also a great inspiration for when I want to write. Do you have favorite pictures or video clips that get you in the mood to write?

Working on a Novel

2010-08-11T21:05:00.000-05:00

I am currently working on my first novel. It is a work in progress and I know exactly how Brian feels in this video....

Cinderelly, Cinderelly!

2010-08-10T17:42:00.000-05:00

I have always loved a good fairy tale. I loved watching the Disney movies and reading the Little Golden Books when I was young. As I grew I read the darker tales by the Grimm Brothers and Charles Perrault. Also, in high school I discovered romance novels, which were in essence, fairy tales. So when authors take a fairy tale, like "Cinderella," and reimagine it, I have to read it.

Eloisa James is doing just that in her latest series. The first novel, A Kiss at Midnight, uses the theme of Cinderella, which is one of my favorites. In this version Kate (aka Cinderella), is borderline spinster who only stays with her stepmother and sister because she feels badly for the servants and peasants that live on her father's estate after his death. She uses a clever twist on the glass slipper and invents a clever substitute for the fairy godmother and rats (like the rats that are found in the Disney version).

She made the heroine a strong and likeable character, not one that needed saving like the original Cinderella character. The prince needed to marry an heiress, but cannot concentrate on his betrothed when Kate is around. There chemistry is remarkable. The prince was slightly high-handed at times, but he obviously cared for Kate and that made it more bearable. This was a fun and lively reimagining of the classic fairy tale and one that should not be missed.

I have read a lot of "Cinderella" themed novels over the years and below is a list of my five favorites (in no particular order) :
1. Charming the Prince - Teresa Medeiros
2. An Offer from a Gentleman - Julia Quinn
3. Ella Enchanted - Gail Carson Levine
4. Just Ella - Margaret Peterson Haddix
5. A Kiss at Midnight - Eloisa James (I do love all her books!).
6. Honorary Mention - Ever After (it is a movie, but I love it!)

So do you like "Cinderella" themed novels? What are some of your favorites?

Writers' Block

2010-08-04T10:16:00.000-05:00

Honestly, I think this video by author Jackson Pearce sums it up nicely. The video is hilarious so be sure to check it out.

Have you ever had to write something? Where you a procrastinator? If so, what means of procrastination did you employ? I pretty much have done all the ones she listed in her video and then some!

100 Books to Read

2010-08-03T18:05:00.000-05:00

The rules are simple. In the following list of a hundred books, bold the ones you’ve read, mark in blue the ones you want to read, mark in red the ones you don’t want to read , italicize the ones you’ve never heard of, and leave the rest alone.

1. The DaVinci Code (Dan Brown)
2. Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3. To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee)
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10. A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)
12. Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Rowling)
17. Fall on Your Knees (Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Rowling)
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)
22. The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger)
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)
25. Life of Pi (Yann Martel)
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)
28. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck)
30. Tuesdays with Morrie (Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell)
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True (Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)
42. The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)
45. The Bible - a lot of it anyways
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens)
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrew Niffenegger)
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolstoy)
64. Interview With The Vampire (Anne Rice)
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
67. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According to Garp (John Irving)
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White)
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)
83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91. In The Skin Of A Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)
93. The Good Earth (Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford)
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100. Ulysses (James Joyce)

I didn't mark any in red, because I never say there is a book that I won't at least give a chance. Also, I heard of all of them so there are none in italics too. I also own a lot of the ones marked in blue and plan on reading then when I get a chance. So in total, I have read 39% of the books on the list, which isn't that bad. How many have you read?

The Oregon Trail

2010-08-03T00:22:00.000-05:00

I almost wish this were going to be a real movie! It looks hilarious and reminds me of my elementary school days playing this game over and over. When I was in high school and baby sitting I found out they had a much cooler version of the game. I won the new version on the first try. My little cousins were in awe.

Did you ever play The Oregon Trail? What was your favorite part of the game?

Ten Things I Loved About TenThings I Love About You

2010-08-02T20:43:00.000-05:00

1. Sebastian - a sexy gentleman author.

2. Annabel - the Winslow most likely to fall asleep in church.

3. The fact that Annabel's family voted who was most likely to do what.

4. The meet cute: alone, at night, looking at the stars.

5. The almost death scene.

6. Louisa - she better get her own book!

7. The rock skipping scene.

8. The humor. Julia Quinn is so funny, she slays me every time.

9. Olivia's matchmaking skills.

10. The fact that the title is a play on the movie 10 Things I Hate About You.

So have you read the Ten Things I Love About You by Julia Quinn yet? If so, what did you love (or not love) about the novel?

You Can Be a Jane Austen Character

2010-08-01T22:04:00.000-05:00

I happen to love Jane Austen novels and personally I would love to visit that time period. Visit, not live. I do not thing that I would do well without running water or electricity, however, I love the gowns, how people talked (a British accent always helps), and the courting ritual.

I like most of her books (I say most because for some reason I just cannot stand Fanny Price in Mansfield Park), especially Pride and Prejudice. Are we not the most lucky people that we are able to rewatch and rewatch both Colin Firth and Matthew MacFayden play Fitzwilliam Darcy. Not to mention Colin Firth playing Mark Darcy in the Bridge Jones series, which is based on the Austen's :Pride and Prejudice. Yes, living in that time would be a fun romp for awhile, our own time period has some of its own awesome perks.

Now back to the point of this post. Awhile ago, I stumbled upon this website in which you can turn yourself into a Jane Austen character, well I had to try it and this was the result and I thought I would share with you so you can try it too. The spectacular website can be found here. You don't have to considere yourself a Jane Austen character either, just any Regency woman that you want. Have fun with it!

While it is fun, saving your picture can be a pain in the (insert whatever body part you prefer here), but it can be done. Ask me if you want to save yours. Otherwise, just have fun making your Jane Austen character.

What is your favorite Jane Austen book? Why is that one your favorite?

Fairy Tales Revisited

2010-07-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

I happen to love a good fairy tale and there are plenty of retellings of classic fairy tales out there. I just finished A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn. This story is a retelling of the classic "Sleeping Beauty" fairy tale. Flinn has a talent of looking at the story, not only from the heroine's perspective, but from the hero's as well. She alternates the story between the two, so that both boys and girls might be interested in the story.

In this particular version, Talia (Beauty), falls asleep due to the curse 300 years ago and is awakened by an American teenage boy who is from the 21st century. He he is a spoiled high school student who is bored with life and not happy with his family life. While he things Talia is beautiful, he finds her annoying and does not want a princess following him home.

It is a fun book and Flinn's concentration on both the male and female characters thoughts make it a more interesting story then just focusing on the boy's perspective as she does in Beastly. Beastly is her previous attempt at retelling a fairy tale in which she concentrates on a New York boy who becomes cursed by his housekeeper, who just happens to be a witch and feels that he needs to be taught a lesson in manners. It is currently in production to become a movie which is due out next spring.

Both versions are interesting, but I thought her second attempt, A Kiss in Time was more interesting. Mostly because there was more sparks flying between the hero and heroine, something that was lacking a bit in Beastly.

Must Love Books

2010-07-19T15:16:00.000-05:00

I love reading and enjoy discussing books with people. Therefore, I am starting this blog as a way to discuss, critique, review and comment on the books I am read in hopes others will enjoy commenting on them. I must confess, while I do read books from all types of genres, I do read a lot of Romance and Young Adult Literature. This blog will contain every book I read, so those may pop up quite frequently.