Book by Its Cover - Vegas Moon by John Locke

Ok yea, so this isn't the typical book we discuss on this blog.  The genre does not fit, but I found it absolutely hilarious looking and felt it would be perfect for our feature this week!  Ta Da....Vegas Moon by John Locke!

Summary:

In order to save his own life, Donovan Creed signs on as bodyguard to the most famous gambler in Las Vegas history, Jim “Lucky” Peters. Lucky, worth millions, has hit a losing streak and must raise a lot of cash in a short period of time from some of the world’s creepiest people. It doesn’t take long for Creed to learn that the person who holds the key to his survival is none other than Lucky’s smokin’ hot wife, Gwen, who has secrets of her own.

Helena's thoughts:

I couldn't find a bigger image, so I am sorry that it is a tad blurry.  Blurry or not, you have to admit that this cover is just hilarious and eye catching.  I mean a girl in crazy sexy red boots and a classic little black dress walking a ..........rooster?!  If this isn't a metaphor for a girl whipping a guy completely, I just don't know what is.  Really?!  I am still rolling over here ;p.  Even though this novel doesn't sound like my typical bag of tricks, it just might have persuaded me to get a copy solely on cover art alone.

Book by Its Cover - Immortal Rider

Larissa Ione's second installment in her Lords of Deliverance series, Immortal Rider, is set to hit shelves in  December of this year.  I know we have a long time to wait, but the cover is just too stunning!  I feel compelled to share it with you guys :)

Blurb:

Sexy, powerful, and immortal, Limos is on a crash course with destiny. She’s been marked as Satan’s bride and her jealous fiancé wants her all to himself. The only way this Horseman can keep herself—and everyone else—safe is to keep her distance. But not even Limos can save herself from the secrets she’s kept . . . or resist the seductive allure of one very brave human.

Arik Wagner knows the saying “love hurts” better than most, yet he never thought stealing a kiss from Limos would land him in Hell. Literally. It takes all his military training to survive the demon torture, but once he’s topside, Arik realizes that the agony has just begun. With the Apocalypse looming and Satan demanding his bride, will Arik and Limos surrender to the desire smoldering between them? Or will giving in to their passion unleash hell on earth?

Helena's Thoughts:

I LOVE this cover!  Wow!  Where to start...lol.  The intense look the female model has on her face is consuming.  Her justice scales tattoo is perfect and the model has a definite Angelina Jolie badass thing going on.  The male model is super yums, digging the dog tag as well.  The lightning behind them and the grey tones sets the scene for a novel full of combat and strong emotional clashes.  Font colors are awesome, they contrast well with the grey scale and helps add a touch of femininity and heat.  Four horsemen symbol is really neat.  I love how the Lords get their own symbol just like the Demonica series did.  Really well done cover!  Visit Ione's blog and join in the ranting and raving :)

Share your thoughts on the cover, the series, future expectations, etc.  We love comments so don't be shy :)

Book By Its Cover - When Blood Calls

J. K. Beck's When Blood Calls is today's book by its cover review.


Synopsis:

Sara Constantine is one of the country's most tenacious prosecuting attorneys - and she's just secured a well-earned promotion. At first she's thrilled. Then she finds out her new job involves prosecuting vampires and werewolves. And nothing prepares Sara for the shock she receives when she meets the first defendant she'll be trying to put away: Lucius Dragos, the sexy stranger with whom she recently shared an explosive night of ecstasy.


When Lucius Dragos kisses the beautiful woman sitting next to him at the bar, he's only hoping to blend into the crowd and avoid the perceptive gaze of the man he's following...and planning to kill. But what starts as a simple kiss to secure his cover ignites into a fierce hunger that leads to an all-consuming passion. Charged with murder, Luke knows Sara will do whatever it takes to see him locked away - unless he can convince her that he's not the monster she thinks he is. And that might mean making the greatest sacrifice a vampire can make.


Helena's Thoughts:

This cover looks like a mishmash of Voldemort from Harry Potter mixed with Lord of the Rings (the precious!), hiding behind a nice hunk of man.  The fog, moonlight, and red glowing ring clad fist give off an air of mystery and foreboding.  What exactly would Blood say to you if it called you on the phone?

Now tell us your first impressions of this novel based solely on the cover.  Would you be drawn to pick it up?  Does it make you want to open the pages and devour it?  If you have already read When Blood Calls, tell us about it!

Blog Hop 2

Follow Friday fun from Parajunkee!

This weeks question:

Q. Do you judge a book by it's cover?

I definitely judge books by covers.  We literally have a feature here that we entertained for a while called "Book by It's Cover Tuesdays" (click the label below if you are interested!)...which we totally need to start doing again.  First impressions are everything in this lifetime.  A pretty cover is what makes me read the summary and then decide if I want to read what is on the pages.  Really ugly covers, well I pick those up to mock and sometimes actually end up reading and enjoying.  The run of the mill standard covers are the novels that I breeze by and never touch.  So apparently I am attracted to both ends of the spectrum lol.

Are you a judger?

~Helena

Book By Its Cover - Paranormalcy

Today's Book By Its Cover is Kiersten White's YA debut Paranormalcy.

Synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Evie's job is bagging and tagging paranormals. Possessing the strange ability to see through their glamours, she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency. But when someone--or something--starts taking out the vamps, werewolves, and other odd beasties she's worked hard to help become productive members of society, she's got to figure it out before they all disappear and the world becomes utterly normal.

Normal is so overrated.


Lily's Thoughts:

I think the cover is lovely; the darkened sky, the cattails bowing in the wind. Even so, I can't get over the creepy similarity the model bears to Scarlett Johansson. Seriously. It can't just be me seeing this, right? I imagine this is what a young, paranormal Scarlett Johansson would look like...if, you know, someone stole her soul leaving her dead eyed and hollow.

*Shudder*


Helena's Thoughts:

I love the cattails blowing in the wind and the stormy sky background. The girl is just a little weird. What is with the completely vacant stare? And her dress looks exactly like my dog's Halloween costume. Yes I dress up my animals and yes she has been a pretty in pink princess complete with hat and train for years. :) I agree with the statement that normal is overrated. I don't quite get why the girl is so glamorous looking if she works with a secret paranormal agency. I would expect more of a black leather tough exterior...maybe that was the whole idea though, to drive home that things are not always what they seem. The story sounds pretty neat but typical of the genre. I am really not sold on the cover but it does have its cool points.

Book By Its Cover - Dust

Today's book by its cover review is Dust by Joan Frances Turner.

Synopsis:

Nine years ago, Jessie had a family. Now, she has a gang.
Nine years ago, Jessie was a vegetarian. Now, she eats very fresh meat.
Nine years ago, Jessie was in a car crash and died. Nine years ago, Jessie was human.
Now, she's not.


After she was buried, Jessie awoke and tore through the earth to arise, reborn, as a zombie. Jessie's gang is the Fly-by-Nights. She loves the ancient, skeletal Florian and his memories of time gone by. She's in love with Joe, a maggot-infested corpse. They fight, hunt, dance together as one - something humans can never understand. There are dark places humans have learned to avoid, lest they run into zombie gangs.


But now, Jessie and the Fly-by-Nights have seen new creatures in the woods - things not human and not zombie. A strange new illness has flamed up out of nowhere, causing the undeads to become more alive and the living to exist to the brink of death. As bits and pieces of the truth fall around Jessie, like the flesh off her bones, she'll have to choose between looking away or staring down the madness - and hanging onto everything she has come to know as life...

Helena's thoughts:

I love this cover.  The leaf is gorgeous and stuck in that limbo that all zombies are...between life and death, between green and crispy.  The title is pretty nifty for a zombie novel.  Although I don't really like the weird white fuzzy figure at the bottom; reminds me of the abominable snowman.

Oh lord!  Can you imagine?  What if the crazy yeti was a zombie?!  I smell a wonderfully awful tongue in cheek story idea! ;p  Looking forward to reading Dust and enjoying the top half of this cover.

Lily's thoughts:

Cover, schmover. This book is about ZOMBIES! Zombies may not hit the same hot scale that vampires, werewolves, and shifters (oh my!) do, but they are completely kick ass all on their own. They don't need to be hot. Why? Because they're fucking AWESOME, that's why.

Ok, now that I've gotten that out of my system. As for the cover, I'm afraid it doesn't really do much for me. As simple as it is, the images that are there conflict. I like the leaf, slowly disintegrating, because it speaks to the same process of life, death, and decay that all things experience, including zombies who take those steps a bit out of order. But then the bottom of the cover kills the symbolic imagery at the top. What is it supposed to be? Fog? Steam? Mist? Wind? Condensation on a shower door? I just don't get it and instead of adding to the simple yet powerful image of the decaying leaf, it detracts with its confusing nature.

Love the concept of the book. Can't wait to read about zombie gangs. Not a fan of the cover.

Book By Its Cover - Waking the Witch

Today's book by its cover review is Waking the Witch by Kelley Armstrong.


Synopsis:

At twenty-one, Savannah Levine-orphaned daughter of a notorious dark witch and an equally notorious cutthroat sorcerer-considers herself a full-fledged member of the otherworld. The once rebellious teen has grown into a six-foot-tall, motorcycle-riding jaw-dropper, with an impressive knowledge of and ability to perform spells. The only problem is, she's having a hard time convincing her adoptive parents, Paige and Lucas, to take her seriously as an adult. She's working as the research assistant at the detective agency they founded, and when they take off on a romantic vacation alone, leaving her in charge, Savannah finds herself itching for a case to call her own. (She's also itching for Adam, her longtime friend and colleague, to see her as more than just a little girl, but that's another matter.)

Suddenly, Savannah gets the chance she's been waiting for: Recruited by another supernatural detective, she travels to Columbus, Washington, a small, dying town. Two troubled young women have been found in an abandoned warehouse, murdered. Now a third woman's dead, and on closer inspection small details point to darker forces at play. Savannah feels certain she can handle the case, but with signs of supernatural activity appearing at every turn, things quickly become more serious- and far more dangerous-than she realizes.

Helena's Thoughts:

LOVE this cover.  I find myself drawn to the blue/green urban covers most, purple power color second, ha.  Storm clouds seem to gather energy from the radiating model, or vice versa...regardless she seems connected to nature in a raw way that is highly appealing.  Bad ass motorcycle - check!  Bad ass shoes - check!  Lack of typical black leather cladness - check!  Yay, finally a heroine that looks freaking awesome and formidable in a pair of jeans and a wife beater.  The tree in the background is pretty sweet too.  I adore this cover if you haven't caught on to that yet!  Stellar job Armstrong!

Lily's Thoughts:

(Yea Lily, I decided to post this without you.  Bite me! ;p  I misses you)

Book By Its Cover - Sin Undone

Today's book by its cover review is Sin Undone by Larissa Ione.


Synopsis:

HER TOUCH IS DEADLY

As the only female Seminus demon ever born, master assassin Sinead Donnelly is used to being treated like an outcast. She spent decades enslaved, and now vows she'll die before she'll relinquish her freedom again. Then Sin's innate ability to kill her enemies goes awry: She creates a lethal new werewolf virus that sparks a firestorm of panic and violence.

HIS HUNGER CAN'T BE DENIED

Half-werewolf, half-vampire Conall Dearghul is charged with bringing in Sin to face punishment for the plague. And she's no stranger: He's bound to her by blood, and the one sexual encounter they shared has left him hungering for her raw sensuality. Worse, Sin is the underworld's most wanted and Con soon learns he's the only one who can help her . . . and that saving her life might mean sacrificing his own.

Helena's Thoughts:

I love Ione's Demonica series.  As the only known female Seminus demon, Sin's story is bound to pack a punch.  The cover is fairly simple and formula-istic (by now, you know I make up words to suit my thoughts ;p).  Tribal tattoos are bold and of typical placement for this breed of demon.  Black leather is present like every urban fantasy/paranormal romance.  However, the caduceus is completely unique to this series.  Below is a close up...I love the story and ingenuity behind it.  Definitely excited to start reading TODAY! :D

Lily's Thoughts:
 (Hurry back turdface!  I am lonely without you!)

Book By Its Cover - As Lie the Dead

Today's book by its cover review, Kelly Meding's As Lie the Dead, released June 27th.

Synopsis:

Evangeline Stone, a rogue bounty hunter, never asked for a world divided between darkness and light . . .

. . . or the power to die and live again in someone else’s borrowed body. After a murder plot meant to take her out leaves an entire race of shapeshifters nearly extinct, Evy is gnawed by guilt. So when one of the few survivors of the slaughter enlists her aid, she feels duty-bound to help—even though protecting a frail, pregnant shifter is the last thing Evy needs, especially with the world going to hell around her.

Amid weres, Halfies, gremlins, vamps—and increasingly outgunned humans—a war for supremacy is brewing. With shifters demanding justice, her superiors desperate to control her, and an assassin on her trail, Evy discovers a horrifying conspiracy. And she may be the only person in the world who can stop it—unless, of course, her own side gets her first.


Lily's Thoughts:

(Lily is on her honeymoon this week!)

Helena's Thoughts:

Ahhh!  It is Indiana Jones!

Well I mean the similarity is just too good to pass up lol.  Love the winged thing in its aggressive pose.  The falling sky effect is quite nice as well.  Are they in a tomb or is that an ancient greece/rome backdrop?  Oh holy crap, another cover just caught me off guard...winged thing is crouched on a CAR.  Here I thought it was a craggy bluff with moonlight or a flare or something glaring off it.  Ok really neat, just won some more points in my book :D.  Glowing knife point is a tad much, but goes with the general atmosphere.  Sounds like an interesting read, had me at gremlin actually :)  I am always up for new supernatural experiences!

Book By Its Cover - Twice Bitten

Today we're judging Twice Bitten: A Chicagoland Vampires Novel by Chloe Neill.

Synopsis:

Shapeshifters from across the country are convening in the Windy City, and as a gesture of peace, Master Vampire Ethan Sullivan has offered their leader a very special bodyguard: Merit, Chicago's newest vampire. Merit is supposed to protect the Alpha, Gabriel Keene-and to spy for the vamps while she's at it. Oh, and luckily Ethan's offering some steamy, one-on-one combat training sessions to help her prepare for the mission. Unfortunately, someone is gunning for Gabriel, and Merit soon finds herself in the line of fire. She'll need all the help she can get to track down the would-be assassin, but everywhere she turns, there are rising tensions between supernaturals-not least between her and a certain green-eyed, centuries-old master vampire.

Helena's Thoughts:

Obviously the whole mysterious warrior woman clad in black leather is nothing new.  Beyond the promise of a couple bad ass chick fighting scenes, this depiction really does not sway my novel choices.  Now the backdrop is another story.  The full moon, the cityscape, the dark alley we are peering out of, and the soft green-yellow glow are all appealing.  The shadows also add a sense of dimension.  oOo and the promise of shapeshifters are all definitely promising elements.  Nicely composed even though I could take or leave the cliche model.

Lily's Thoughts:

[Lily is currently wrapped up in wedding plans.  She will return to everything lovely and vampiric shortly :) ]

Book By Its Cover - Unchained

Today we'll be reviewing the cover of Sharon Ashwood's new release Unchained, on Book By Its Cover Tuesday here at Vamps R Us.

Synopsis:

Faced with a custody battle for her daughter, monster-killer Ashe Carver has hung up her stakes and taken a job at the public library. But then after centuries guarding a supernatural prison, the dashing Captain Reynard strides into her world. He has only weeks to live unless Ashe finds the thief who took his soul-and he's too drop-dead gorgeous to die...

Helena's Thoughts:

I almost feel like this is an urban hero/graphic novel. The likes of Sin City come to mind in particular, or the Watchmen, as far as typical scenery/world building go. The cover seems almost cold and inaccessible; I don't have that "drawn in" feel. Appeal wise, I am pretty apathetic on this one.

Lily's Thoughts:

I like bikes!

Book By Its Cover - Rapture Untamed

Pamela Palmer's new release Rapture Untamed is today's book by its cover review.


Synopsis:

They are called Feral Warriors—an elite band of immortals who can change shape at will. Sworn to rid the world of evil, consumed by sorcery and seduction, their wild natures are primed for release . . .

The most combative—and tormented—of all the Ferals, Jag is a predator who hunts alone—until daemons terrorize the human population. To stop them, he partners with Olivia, a flame-haired Therian temptress as strong as she is beautiful. But Olivia is no ordinary immortal. The survivor of a vicious supernatural attack, she possesses a deadly and forbidden skill—one that must remain hidden, especially from the powerful Feral Warriors.

As Jag and Olivia's sensual dance of dominance and seduction gets wilder and hotter, a dark force sets its sights on Olivia, threatening to destroy everything she has vowed to protect. And the only one who can save her soul is the arrogant jaguar shifter she lusts for but dares not love.


Lily's Thoughts:

Whoa, I think that dude has an 8-pack. Tall? Check. Brooding? Check. Dark hair? Check. Apart from that Chachi-esque bandanna around the upper arm, this guy is hot all over. I'd buy it for the guy alone.

Wait, there's more to the cover than the guy? Huh...

Helena's Thoughts:

Mmmmm, feral? you don't say? ;p. Gorgeous half nekkie eye candy - yes please! What is with the cloth on his arm? Awww is he hurt? Well come over here hunk-a-muffin, let me fix you up...lol. Wow, I think I am having a little too much fun staring at this cover, ha. Rapture, um yea, the cover is the exact definition! When I laid eyes on this, of course I drooled, duh...then I noticed the panther. At first glance, I thought its eyes were just street lamps, with the typical urban scene backdrop. Boy was I surprised when I took a second look, crap that thing would have eaten my face if I didn't jump back in time. Love the black and white color palate, gives it a monochromatic gritty feel. Grade A plus plus plus :)

Book By Its Cover - Dark Flame

Today's book by its cover review is the new release Dark Flame, latest installment of Alyson Noel's young adult series The Immortals.

Synopsis:

Ever is trying to help Haven transition into life as an immortal. But with Haven drunk on her new powers and acting recklessly, she poses the ultimate threat—exposing their secret world to the outside. As Ever struggles to keep the Immortals hidden, it only propels Haven closer to the enemy—Roman and his evil companions

At the same time, Ever delves deeper into dark magick to free Damen from Roman’s power. But when her spell backfires, it binds her to the one guy who’s hell-bent on her destruction. Now there’s a strange, foreign pulse coursing through her, and no matter what she does, she can’t stop thinking about Roman—and longing for his touch. As she struggles to resist the fiery attraction threatening to consume her, Roman is more than willing to take advantage of her weakened state…and Ever edges closer and closer to surrender.

Frantic to break the spell before its too late, Ever turns to Jude for help, risking everything she knows and loves to save herself—and her future with Damen …

Helena's Thoughts:

Purple! Pretty! The forefront centering of the candle proves it to be an important element to the story. I love how it illuminates the two girls in the background and the shadowing plays off her collarbones. The girl in front seems more innocent while the one behind, all cloaked in shadows seems about to pull a disappearing act. It leaves me wondering just what Miss Dark Shadows is up to or hiding. Title is very fitting. I am a stranger to the immortals series, yet I have heard great comments about it. I tend to gravitate towards her covers in the bookstore, just never managed to actually sit down and read one. Maybe it's finally time to add her to the TBR pile.

Lily's Thoughts:

I can't say it better than Helena on this one, so I'm not going to try. I'll add simply, ditto.

Book By Its Cover - Black Dust Mambo

Black Dust Mambo by Adrian Phoenix is a paranormal romance slated for release later this month. Its also today's book by its cover review.

Synopsis:

Kallie Rivière, a fiery Cajun hoodoo apprentice with a talent for trouble, finds herself smack-dab in the middle of one of those times her mentor warned her about when she visits New Orleans to attend the Hecatean Alliance’s annual carnival: her hard-bodied conjurer hookup ends up dead in her blood-drenched bed. And he was killed by something that Kallie would never dream of touching—the darkest of dark juju, soul-eating juju—a black dust hex that may have been meant to kill her.

Now Kallie has to use every bit of hoodoo knowledge and bayou-bred mojo she possesses to clear her own name and find the killer—even as that dark sorcerer hunts Kallie and her friends. But Kallie’s search for the truth soon leads her in a direction she never anticipated—back home to Bayou Cyprés Noir, and to Gabrielle LaRue, Kallie’s aunt, protector, and hoodoo mentor . . . who is looking more and more like she just might be the one who wants Kallie dead.

Lily's Thoughts:

I love the bayou, I love New Orleans, I love everything Cajun and creole. The cover conveys all those elements and perfectly illustrates the gritty feel of the book. Is it just me, or does the cover model resemble Maryann from the second season of True Blood. Couldn't be more perfect. I just love it.

Helena's Thoughts:

Louisiana bayou and voodoo doctors immediately popped into my head even before glancing at the title/summary. This cover accurately depicts every anticipation I would have for this novel. Dark, sinister, and mystical, definitely intriguing...oh and her pen name (I am assuming) is awesome. This also reminds me of the set for True Blood (just finished rewatching season 2 in two days...I am on swamp moss overload). Beautiful rendition! :)

Book By Its Cover - Blood Song

Cat Adams' new release Blood Song is today's book by its cover review.


Synopsis:

Bodyguard Celia Graves has definitely accepted her share of weird assignments, both human and supernatural. But her newest job takes the cake. Guarding a Prince from terrorists and religious fundamentalists is hard enough, but it seems like the entire supernatural world is after this guy too. When she is betrayed by those she is employed to help, and everything goes horribly wrong, Celia wakes to find herself transformed.

Neither human nor vampire, Celia has become an Abomination—something that should not exist—and now both human and supernatural alike want her dead. With the help of a few loyal friends—a sexy mage, a powerful werewolf, and a psychic cop—Celia does her best to stay alive. On the run from her enemies, Celia must try to discover who is behind her transformation …before it’s too late.

Helena's Thoughts:

Love this cover! The eye color is piercing and animalistic. The gaze...wow, she is going to either rip you to shreds or completely ravage you. Love how her hair sweeps in. When I first saw this cover, I expected green/blue eyes and black hair...but this combo of brown and gold really works in a non-cliche kind of way. Font has a vintage edge to me. Title is fairly standard for the genre. Summary and cast of characters sounds highly intriguing. Definitely a novel worth looking into further.

Lily's Thoughts:

This cover strikes me as eerie and menacing. Yes, the woman pictured is obviously lovely, but I don't think anyone would mistake her as timid or passive. Her energy almost jumps off the cover. But it isn't repulsive, instead it kind of draws you in, perhaps against your better judgment.

This cover definitely makes me want to know more about the book.

Book By Its Cover - No Werewolves Allowed

Today's book by its cover review was released last Tuesday, but it had a cover too good to pass up. It is No Werewolves Allowed by Cheyenne McCray.

Synopsis:

As a half-human, half-Drow private eye, Nyx is the go-to girl for tracking Demons in the night. So when several of New York City’s Werewolves go missing, Alpha Werewolf Dmitri Beketov hires Nyx for the job. But this time, she must leave the dark alleys and bright lights behind…

Nyx’s sixth sense tells her that life in the slow lane is a lot deadlier than it appears. Though she usually prefers to work solo, with this case she’s going to need all the help she can get. Enter Detective Adam Boyd: he’s watching her back, but is this human too sexy for his—and her—own good? Meanwhile, a powerful, malevolent force is exterminating paranorms and “unworthy” humans alike…and Nyx, still trying to get a foothold in her new surroundings, finds herself facing danger at every turn.

Lily's Thoughts:

Considering the werewolf vs vampire war going on in the previous post, I couldn't resist a werewolf themed cover. I've heard that purple is supposed to be the most appealing cover color. I don't know if that's true or not, but it certainly works for this cover. Nothing horribly new or original here, but it works. I do like how the light from above seems to give the cover model the illusion of wings. I also like the urban skyline beneath the her torso, giving it a gritty feel.

Well rendered cover for what looks to be an interesting read. I give it a thumbs up!


Helena's Thoughts:

[Helena is...still missing? I'm actually not quite sure... I am contemplating photoshopping her picture onto the back of a milk carton]

How fitting to put the lactose intolerant girl on a milk carton...lol. I am back for the mean time. I actually start an internship in Texas for six weeks this summer!!!! Can you pick up my excitement shower burst of light? Can't wait to palpate the inside of a cow...lol...or not. ;p

Anyways, cover time! I love the color...so I guess this purple being the new power color is a real thing. She glows, she is pretty and looks very formidable with her outfit/sword hilt. I personally would not want to meet her in a dark alley. The font is also very appealing to me. I would definitely read this.

Book By Its Cover - The Darkest Passion

Today's book by its cover is the new release The Darkest Passion by Gena Showalter.

Synopsis:

For weeks, the immortal warrior Aeron has sensed an invisible female presence. An angel—demon-assassin—has been sent to kill him. Or has she? Olivia claims she fell from the heavens, giving up immortality because she couldn't bear to harm him. But trusting—and falling for—Olivia will endanger them all. So how has this "mortal" with the huge blue eyes already unleashed Aeron's darkest passion?
Now, with an enemy hot on his trail and his faithful demon companion determined to remove Olivia from his life, Aeron is trapped between duty and consuming desire. Worse still, a new executioner has been sent to do the job Olivia wouldn't…

Lily' Thoughts:

My review is going to be short and sweet.

Love it. Love the blue tones, love the sexy, masculine back, love the tribal-esque tattoo, love the cover.

Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld series always has great covers. The Darkest Passion is no exception, in my mind.

Helena's Thoughts:

I ADORE this cover!  Every part of my being is drawn to it lol.  The blue green tones almost makes it seem like the freaking gorgeous yummy man is under water.  The sparkling night sky is alluring.  And that sculpted back and tattoo....swoon.  I just want to trace it for hours, maybe with my tongue...bwahaha.

Seriously though, this cover is a homerun!  Not only will women naturally gravitate towards it (I mean come on!) but it will happily make it home with anyone interested in this genre on the cover principle alone.  Husbands will shake their heads and question getting their own man stamp...or so I hope ;p.

Gena Showalter has just landed at the top of my TBR pile. :)

Book By Its Cover - Bound By Sin

Today we'll be judging Jenna MacLaine's Bound By Sin by its cover.


Synopsis:

As the Civil War rages among mortal men, Cin Craven is locked in an epic battle of her own—fighting the renegade vampires whose unquenchable appetites she knows all too well. At her side are the immortal warriors of The Righteous—among them her husband, her lover, her soul-mate Michael. With a passion bordering on possession, Cin’s love for Michael knows no bounds. But when a ruthless plantation owner kidnaps Cin’s cousin, the most terrifying battle of all awaits. Cin is drawn to the irresistible lure of dark magic to stop their enemies, while Michael staunchly opposes it—putting their love and loyalty to the ultimate test.

Helena's Thoughts:

I am finally back from my hiatus!  Figured I would catch up on a couple posts around here, actually earn my keep so to speak ;p.  

Honestly, I find this cover cliche and a bit dull.  The red hair and corset ribbon serve as a pop of color to an otherwise fairly monochromatic scene.  The statue angel is quite neat.  Almost like it is a guardian angel peering over her shoulder, I started looking for a demon on the other side and sadly my amusement did not come to fruition.  As for her weapons...where does she put them when she is not skillfully wielding them?  On the other hand, why would a vamp-witch hybrid even need old fashioned swords?  Can't she just zap them or bite them into submission?  Would a stake seem more appropriate?

Maybe I am just being overly critical; I might pick this up.  Do I feel drawn to the cover?...not really.

Lily's Thoughts:

It's quickly becoming a paranormal book cover cliche to have a fierce woman wielding a weapon (or two) while dressed in all black (bonus points if the black is leather and/or a corset). This one gets bonus points.

Even so, if I were walking though a bookstore, I'd pick up this book based on the cover. What can I say, there are some cliches I enjoy and there are some practices that become cliche because they are effective. There's nothing too unique about the covermodel (red hair, determined expression, wide stance and multiple weapons) alone, but when combined with the setting the overall affect is appealing. She appears to be in a graveyard with mist or fog rising to surround her. The gothic-styled angel statue looking over her is underminded by the bright font proclaiming her "Bound by Sin". The juxtaposition of these images makes what could be just another stereotypical paranormal cover something more. It's provocative and makes Bound by Sin stand out in a flooded genre.

I like it, and I'm enticed to read the book. The cover drew me in and the blurb sealed the deal. Civil War era vampire battles with a strong heroine? Sign me up!

Book By Its Cover - Infinity: Chronicles of Nick

Today's book we'll be judging solely on its cover is Infinity: The Chronicles of Nick by Sherrilyn Kenyon.


Synopsis:

At fourteen, Nick Gautier thinks he knows everything about the world around him. Streetwise, tough and savvy, his quick sarcasm is the stuff of legends. . .until the night when his best friends try to kill him. Saved by a mysterious warrior who has more fighting skills than Chuck Norris, Nick is sucked into the realm of the Dark-Hunters: immortal vampire slayers who risk everything to save humanity.

Nick quickly learns that the human world is only a veil for a much larger and more dangerous one: a world where the captain of the football team is a werewolf and the girl he has a crush on goes out at night to stake the undead.

But before he can even learn the rules of this new world, his fellow students are turning into flesh eating zombies. And he’s next on the menu.

As if starting high school isn't hard enough. . .now Nick has to hide his new friends from his mom, his chainsaw from the principal, and keep the zombies and the demon Simi from eating his brains, all without getting grounded or suspended. How in the world is he supposed to do that?

Lily's Thoughts:

Infinity: The Chronicles of Nick is a YA prequel, or sorts, to Kenyon's wildly popular Dark-Hunter series. While the Dark-Hunter series is very much for adults (and features an older Nick), Infinity tells the story of Nick's early life and is suitable for teens.

As for the cover, I think it is fantastic. I love the blue tones, blazing out of the golden symbol, like light emanating from within it. The use of color in this way underlines the paranormal, mystic qualities of the story. Symbols are used in some of Kenyon's other works, and I'm glad that theme is continued here, although it isn't clear what the symbol is. I also like that the figure on the cover (likely meant to be the teenage Nick), is in shadow, facing away and down. His stance indicates solitude and sorrow, elements that will undoubtedly play a role in his overall story. He seems apart from the symbol (a symbol of a group of which he wants to be a part, perhaps?), eclipsed by the light it shines. It makes him seem like an outsider. Or maybe it's foreshadowing the journey that will awaits him, shining a light on the path he will take, drawing him into it. Either way, it's intriguing.

I have read some of Kenyon's Dark-Hunter novels, so I know a bit about Nick as a man, shaped by events both within and beyond his control. Even without that knowledge, however, this cover would catch my eye. The cover is well rendered and beautiful, and has a distinct paranormal vibe to it. I look forward to the story itself.

Helena's Thoughts:

[Helena is currently consumed by the paranormal monster that is vet school finals. She will return to add her opinion of the cover just as soon as she is able.]

edit: I am back...but my brain is still pretty fried. :)


I have not read any of Kenyon's novels but I am no stranger to her pretty covers, typically depicting a dark brooding male figure (yums!). This cover though seems to have a manga vibe almost and on a completely different note, reminds me of this:

...which is not a bad thing, just a funny little aside I had to share. Dark and brooding male is definitely included: check. These characters appeal to women and girls of all ages. I think one look at this picture and many teens will pick it up...the light rays just seem to call out to you. The poor boy looks like he needs a hug or a huge burden lifted off his shoulders. :( (And this review is becoming more candid and less professional...oh well lol remember brain is fried, more complicated sentences don't exist in my world right now) When I get addicted to a series, I always wonder what the character's earlier years were like, so the concept is definitely an appealing one. Kenyon also serves to hook younger girls onto a series that they can "grow into" so to speak. Nicely done, pretty, sparkling, glowy (is that even a word?). . . "high five" Kenyon.

Book By Its Cover - Dead in the Family

We're trying something new here at Vamps R Us, a weekly feature we're calling "Book By Its Cover Tuesdays", where we'll discuss a new paranormal release based solely on it's cover and what, if anything, we know about the series or author. We're interested in your opinion as well, so feel free to chime in.

The first book we'll be judging by its cover is new release Dead in the Family, the 10th installment of the Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampires series by Charlaine Harris.

Synopsis:

After enduring torture and the loss of loved ones during the brief but deadly Faery War, Sookie Stackhouse is hurt and she's angry. Just about the only bright spot in her life is the love she thinks she feels for vampire Eric Northman. But he's under scrutiny by the new Vampire King because of their relationship. And as the political implications of the Shifters coming out are beginning to be felt, Sookie's connection to the Shreveport pack draws her into the debate. Worst of all, though the door to Faery has been closed, there are still some Fae on the human side-and one of them is angry at Sookie. Very, very angry...

Lily's Thoughts:

I've read the other books in the Sookie Stackhouse series, so I really have to work to distance myself from what I know of the series to judge fully on the cover alone. I like the series and I'm excited for this latest installment. That said, I love this cover. Since True Blood hit the airwaves, many of the original Sookie covers have been changed to tie the books in more closely with the show. While I'm a big fan of the show, I prefer the original book covers (featured to the right) over the True Blood promo tie-ins and the covers that bare stylized versions of Anna Paquin's face.

I like the cartoon quality of the covers, the depiction of Sookie in all her blond, innocent beauty, and the pale exteriors of the vampires. By using cartoon drawings, I think the original covers emphasize a specific piece of the story, a scene of importance, rather than simply conjuring an image of the actors playing the roles in the series. In so doing, I think these original covers are more likely to stroke the imagination and tempt readers into visualizing the scenes for themselves, rather than just forcing subconscious images of the True Blood cast through the hoops created by the narrative.

As for the Dead in the Family cover, I like the bold use of colors, the blues, greens and reds. I also like the symbolism of the rose, complete with thorns, and how it's separating Sookie and Eric even as they reach for each other. These two are going to have issues in the upcoming book, and this cover depicts that well. Overall, I give the cover a 5 out of 5. Excellent cover for what I'm hoping is an excellent book.

Helena's Thoughts:

Wow, pretty is my first thought lol. As I have already posted earlier, I am way excited for this release and I am along with Lily no stranger to this series by any means. I did realize earlier today that they are all running together though. Not in a bad way, I just can no longer separate individual novels out of the bigger picture anymore. At least Harris does a great job keeping the story flowing haha.

Team Eric is wonderfully represented on the cover. I agree with Lily, I do adore the cartoon covers. I think it lends a level of playfulness and lightheartedness to the content contained within. The rose looks like it will be sparkly! Hopefully the only part of the cover that will be, I prefer my blood suckers non glitterized. I find it interesting that two stems intertwine and culminate in the rose...maybe symbolic of the joining of two characters despite the "fang-ups" so to speak in their individual histories. I do hope so!

Gorgeous, simple, symbolic, perfect representation of the series...the designer of the cover makes another homerun. Can't wait to brave the thorns and delve into this one. 5/5 rating!