Who doesn't experience stress? I used to think that individuals who are rich, don't have to deal with stress. Can you imagine having a ridiculous amount of money and always having to worry about whether one day it will be all gone? I would go crazy. Stress is just a part of life we all have to deal with, but sometimes we don't know how to deal with it. Some people like to listen to music, others like to walk, and others like to scream at the top of their lungs with a pillow over their face (maybe that's just me). Don't fear my book lovers, reading is also a great way of relieving stress! I was so excited to learn about this.
I found this article online and I wanted to share it with you; to encourage you to keep reading (and myself). Many years ago I exercised to relieve stress, but I HATE exercise. When I am reading, I mentally check out and focus on the book. I also figured that this was Stephanie's secret because she reads all of those fun books and it's like a dose of stress-be-gone solution. Do what Stephanie does, and read what you want to read, lose yourself in a book to reach that level of relaxation.
Homo-erotica: tell me why
There's a lot I don't understand.
1. Black licorice and candy corn
2. Tom Brady's choice of hairstylist
3. What I'm supposed to be doing with my life
4. The purpose of bugs that fly, hop and/or move
Most recently added to the list: homo-erotica.
Now, before the mobs assemble for my lynching, let me explain.
For the last several months, I've had my head buried in the clouds. And by "clouds" I mean lots of really trashy and delightfully fun erotic novels.
I. Just. Can't. Stop.
And in that time I think (thought) I've been pretty open-minded. BDSM, ménage, fantasy, paranormal. Bring it.
Then came the day I stumbled across a M/M erotic novel. I was reading the excerpt. I thought it was about a man and a woman. It sounded really good. Then I realized it was about two dudes.
And I felt like I had just stepped into the men's restroom by accident. Like oops! I don't think I belong in here! And I quietly tiptoed back out.
So maybe I'm not as open-minded as I thought because I assumed those books would be read by, you know, other dudes. Gay dudes. Erotica for everyone, I say. But it quickly became apparent that I was off. These books were being read by women! STRAIGHT women!
I was caught a little off guard. I admit it. I mean, I got nothin' against the gays, but this... this threw me for a loop. I just wasn't expecting it. I shook it off. To each his own and all that.
And then! Then I read a book review on Goodreads. It was a straight book. And the woman who wrote the review stated "books like these are the reason why I only read M/M erotica anymore."
And I was all "whaaa?" And it seems that ever since then I've run into this phenomenon around every corner. So many female readers and even some of my favorite authors have shown this preference and I'm left wondering... why? 'Cause, quite frankly, I just can't wrap my brain around it. Straight women who prefer to read male on male bump and grind romantica action? Really?
So. What I need is someone to enlighten me. What is it about these books that is so appealing? And, please, don't misunderstand. I find nothing at all wrong with this. I just don't get it. It's really just a matter of curiosity. (Do I sound nervous like I'm afraid I might be offending someone? 'Cause I totally am.)
1. Black licorice and candy corn
2. Tom Brady's choice of hairstylist
3. What I'm supposed to be doing with my life
4. The purpose of bugs that fly, hop and/or move
Most recently added to the list: homo-erotica.
Now, before the mobs assemble for my lynching, let me explain.
For the last several months, I've had my head buried in the clouds. And by "clouds" I mean lots of really trashy and delightfully fun erotic novels.
I. Just. Can't. Stop.
And in that time I think (thought) I've been pretty open-minded. BDSM, ménage, fantasy, paranormal. Bring it.
Then came the day I stumbled across a M/M erotic novel. I was reading the excerpt. I thought it was about a man and a woman. It sounded really good. Then I realized it was about two dudes.
And I felt like I had just stepped into the men's restroom by accident. Like oops! I don't think I belong in here! And I quietly tiptoed back out.
So maybe I'm not as open-minded as I thought because I assumed those books would be read by, you know, other dudes. Gay dudes. Erotica for everyone, I say. But it quickly became apparent that I was off. These books were being read by women! STRAIGHT women!
I was caught a little off guard. I admit it. I mean, I got nothin' against the gays, but this... this threw me for a loop. I just wasn't expecting it. I shook it off. To each his own and all that.
And then! Then I read a book review on Goodreads. It was a straight book. And the woman who wrote the review stated "books like these are the reason why I only read M/M erotica anymore."
And I was all "whaaa?" And it seems that ever since then I've run into this phenomenon around every corner. So many female readers and even some of my favorite authors have shown this preference and I'm left wondering... why? 'Cause, quite frankly, I just can't wrap my brain around it. Straight women who prefer to read male on male bump and grind romantica action? Really?
So. What I need is someone to enlighten me. What is it about these books that is so appealing? And, please, don't misunderstand. I find nothing at all wrong with this. I just don't get it. It's really just a matter of curiosity. (Do I sound nervous like I'm afraid I might be offending someone? 'Cause I totally am.)
Baby, Come Home by Stephanie Bond
I have never really thought about why I started to like books so much until today. When I was younger my parents were so overprotective, and at times I felt suffocated, so I would grab a book and I would forget that feeling. Anyway, I was reminded today because my dad was working on a water leak at home (under the house). As I was helping him, I remembered a specific incident that brought back memories like a flood. My dad didn’t want me to have a cell phone; he said it would be a distraction or something crazy. My mother being the bad ass that she is bought me a cell phone, but made it clear that my dad was not to find out. One day my cell phone rang (ring tone was some sort of kitty sound) and apparently my dad thought there was a cat under the house, and down he went searching for said kitty. I should probably tell him that there was no kitty under the house but it’s funnier this way.
It’s obvious that I love to read (especially about hardworking men). When I picture a hardworking man, I picture a shirtless man, tan, with muscles flexing. Yes, that’s exactly how I picture the Armstrong brothers, too (I love the book covers!). So, in the first book we learned about Porter and Nikki. Now in the second book focuses on the middle brother and his love interest Amy. Amy grew up in a harsh environment, her parents died when she was very young and was raised by her aunt. Amy had to deal with the bullying of kids her age, and fell in love with Kendall when he stepped up for her. They had a sweet young love, but Amy didn’t want to stay in the same town she grew up in, she wanted to get away and build a new life elsewhere. Kendall didn’t want to leave because he was rooted there by his family. Amy decided to leave without him, and asked that he never talk to her again.
After thirteen years Kendall still has not been able to stop loving Amy. He is filled with regret for not stopping Amy when she left. Amy comes back to Sweetness to help the brother re-build a bridge, and is confronted by Marcus (older brother) to tell Kendall the secret she has been keeping since she left. Kendall on the other hand, is trying desperately to win Amy back. I love his persistence, and the challenges he is willing to take on to win her back. The entire story is a huge misunderstanding, secrets, and bottled up feelings. I was a little disappointed with the end because it felt like it was cut short. I still enjoyed the book and I am waiting for the last book to be released in November.
It’s obvious that I love to read (especially about hardworking men). When I picture a hardworking man, I picture a shirtless man, tan, with muscles flexing. Yes, that’s exactly how I picture the Armstrong brothers, too (I love the book covers!). So, in the first book we learned about Porter and Nikki. Now in the second book focuses on the middle brother and his love interest Amy. Amy grew up in a harsh environment, her parents died when she was very young and was raised by her aunt. Amy had to deal with the bullying of kids her age, and fell in love with Kendall when he stepped up for her. They had a sweet young love, but Amy didn’t want to stay in the same town she grew up in, she wanted to get away and build a new life elsewhere. Kendall didn’t want to leave because he was rooted there by his family. Amy decided to leave without him, and asked that he never talk to her again. After thirteen years Kendall still has not been able to stop loving Amy. He is filled with regret for not stopping Amy when she left. Amy comes back to Sweetness to help the brother re-build a bridge, and is confronted by Marcus (older brother) to tell Kendall the secret she has been keeping since she left. Kendall on the other hand, is trying desperately to win Amy back. I love his persistence, and the challenges he is willing to take on to win her back. The entire story is a huge misunderstanding, secrets, and bottled up feelings. I was a little disappointed with the end because it felt like it was cut short. I still enjoyed the book and I am waiting for the last book to be released in November.
Kinky Neighbors by Jasmine Haynes
Alternate post title: When good books go wrong.
Warning: this post may or may not contain spoilers, but I find myself unable (and unwilling) to care. THAT'S HOW STRONG MY EMOTIONS ARE AFTER FINISHING.
Warning #2: I may or may not abuse the Caps Lock key and/or exclamation points in this post.
I was not going to post about this book. Hell, I wasn't even going to READ this book. But it was getting all sorts of positive reviews and I had thoroughly enjoyed Past Midnight by the same author and, well, I was hoping it would be something else than EXACTLY WHAT IT WAS: a book about two couples, friends, who decide to all (as in ALL FOUR OF THEM) become sexually involved, spend a month living out their fantasies, then deal with the clusterfuck that ensues.
Kinky Neighbors left me reeling. And very, very angsty. I stayed up and finished it in one night. It was compelling like a train wreck. I could not look away, even though I was borderline horrified the entire time. There was the part of me (the happily-ever-after love-conquers-all part) that really hoped that these couples-- these couples that had been married for so many years, that professed to love each other so much-- would realize what they had in each other, stay together, fall more in love than ever.
There was the other part of me that was happy it ended exactly the way it did. Because there was still a falling into love and a happily-ever-after and the right people did end up together. But getting to that point? Effing heartbreaking. The manipulation, the secrecy, the doubts and betrayal... oh, it was painful to read. It left me quite sad and actually kind of angry. So many times throughout the book I found myself wanting to Just. Stop. Reading. (I'm glad I saw it through.) (I think.)
While the book was about all four characters, the focus was on Drew and Alexis. They were great. They were such good, decent people; both loving and wanting to make their partners happy. Watching each of their several-years-long marriages fall apart was devastating. I was rooting for them the entire way even as I wanted to scream "Stop! Don't! THIS CAN'T END WELL!" and I only wish the ending had been longer. I needed more time to revel in and comfort myself with Alexis and Drew's love for each other. I DIDN'T GET ENOUGH TIME! It was all angst and sex and heartache TIMES ONE THOUSAND then BAM! Happy ending. The end.
(I should be grateful I got that at least.)
This is one of those books that I'm dying to talk about with someone. (Which is probably why I decided to post about it after all.) So, if I haven't spoiled it (I probably have) and you want to read it (you might not) then let me know when you're done so we can have a total gabfest about it later.
Warning: this post may or may not contain spoilers, but I find myself unable (and unwilling) to care. THAT'S HOW STRONG MY EMOTIONS ARE AFTER FINISHING.
Warning #2: I may or may not abuse the Caps Lock key and/or exclamation points in this post.
I was not going to post about this book. Hell, I wasn't even going to READ this book. But it was getting all sorts of positive reviews and I had thoroughly enjoyed Past Midnight by the same author and, well, I was hoping it would be something else than EXACTLY WHAT IT WAS: a book about two couples, friends, who decide to all (as in ALL FOUR OF THEM) become sexually involved, spend a month living out their fantasies, then deal with the clusterfuck that ensues.
Two couples, two very hot wives, two husbands who don’t mind a little swapping... The Mitchells and the Harts have been next door neighbors and friends for the past year. They have loads in common; double incomes, professional careers, no kids...and a kinky streak. Now they’re about to become very good friends...with kinky benefits. The sex between them all is hot, naughty, and unbearably exciting. It isn’t merely swapping partners and moving to another room; it’s true foursome sex, same room, same bed, all four involved. For Drew and Cat Mitchell and Logan and Alexis Hart, it’s about barreling through boundaries none of them have ever crossed before, doing kinky things they’ve only fantasized about. But when they begin to exchange not just sex but emotional connection, the problems start; a little jealousy, feeling left out, wanting more from the wrong partner. Can two couples really share everything without losing it all?
Kinky Neighbors left me reeling. And very, very angsty. I stayed up and finished it in one night. It was compelling like a train wreck. I could not look away, even though I was borderline horrified the entire time. There was the part of me (the happily-ever-after love-conquers-all part) that really hoped that these couples-- these couples that had been married for so many years, that professed to love each other so much-- would realize what they had in each other, stay together, fall more in love than ever.
There was the other part of me that was happy it ended exactly the way it did. Because there was still a falling into love and a happily-ever-after and the right people did end up together. But getting to that point? Effing heartbreaking. The manipulation, the secrecy, the doubts and betrayal... oh, it was painful to read. It left me quite sad and actually kind of angry. So many times throughout the book I found myself wanting to Just. Stop. Reading. (I'm glad I saw it through.) (I think.)
While the book was about all four characters, the focus was on Drew and Alexis. They were great. They were such good, decent people; both loving and wanting to make their partners happy. Watching each of their several-years-long marriages fall apart was devastating. I was rooting for them the entire way even as I wanted to scream "Stop! Don't! THIS CAN'T END WELL!" and I only wish the ending had been longer. I needed more time to revel in and comfort myself with Alexis and Drew's love for each other. I DIDN'T GET ENOUGH TIME! It was all angst and sex and heartache TIMES ONE THOUSAND then BAM! Happy ending. The end.
(I should be grateful I got that at least.)
This is one of those books that I'm dying to talk about with someone. (Which is probably why I decided to post about it after all.) So, if I haven't spoiled it (I probably have) and you want to read it (you might not) then let me know when you're done so we can have a total gabfest about it later.
Baby, Drive South by Stephanie Bond
Have you ever tried to add how much money you’ve spent on books? (I don’t recommend it.) I was going through tough times and I thought food or books? Obviously, I know how to set my priorities straight and I decided to continue purchasing books, I could go about three weeks without eating. Anyway, after a while I realized that food was necessary to have the energy to read, so I re-considered and decided to only download free e-books. I read the first few pages of some, and I kept skipping over Stephanie Bond’s free book Baby, I’m Yours and I honestly don’t know why I did such a thing. I finally ran out of resources and read the prequel to the Southern Roads Trilogy. Like Stephanie has mentioned before the purpose of BBB is not to say negative things about books we don’t like, but to share the ones we love. I didn’t exactly love Baby, I’m Yours but it did a little nibbling at my curiosity and I absolutely loved the first book in the series Baby, Drive South (I finished the book in one day).
Porter is the younger brother in the Armstrong family. He is Tall, muscular, with cobalt blue eyes (yum). The brothers have embarked on a project to re-build their town Sweetness. They created an ad to attract about 100 women to live free with room and board for two years. The idea behind the ad was for the prosperity of the town and to help rebuild it after the town was destroyed by a tornado. Porter and Kendall (middle brother) are positive that their advertisement will work; Marcus (older brother) is not so sure and he doesn't think of women as being an asset to their project. Porter is hoping for good looking women to surround them, but once the women start to arrive it's comical to see how little the brothers know about women. Women arrive on a caravan and Porter is so excited he decides to get a better view and climbs a water tower and of course injures himself in the process. When he is treated by the new physician in town he is clearly disappointed, and doesn't hide it (I am not going to lie, I thought he was a douche in the beginning).
Nikki regrets arriving to Sweetness the moment she realizes that the man (Porter) she is helping, doesn't hide the disappointment in her appearance. She immediately thinks about the warnings her friend Amy gave her about small towns and southern men. Nikki underestimates her good looks because she doesn't try to impress anyone, but she thought that by moving to Sweetness she could hide from the heartbreak she experienced. I personally liked the misunderstandings and confusion between Porter and Nikki. She doesn't fall for his charms (so she thinks) and he can't believe that he can't convince her to stay, because women always fall for him. Anyway, I loved the way Porter's feelings developed for her. His feelings transitioned from trying to convince her to stay for the benefit of the town to his own. I just finished the second book and will be posting a review about it next time.
Porter is the younger brother in the Armstrong family. He is Tall, muscular, with cobalt blue eyes (yum). The brothers have embarked on a project to re-build their town Sweetness. They created an ad to attract about 100 women to live free with room and board for two years. The idea behind the ad was for the prosperity of the town and to help rebuild it after the town was destroyed by a tornado. Porter and Kendall (middle brother) are positive that their advertisement will work; Marcus (older brother) is not so sure and he doesn't think of women as being an asset to their project. Porter is hoping for good looking women to surround them, but once the women start to arrive it's comical to see how little the brothers know about women. Women arrive on a caravan and Porter is so excited he decides to get a better view and climbs a water tower and of course injures himself in the process. When he is treated by the new physician in town he is clearly disappointed, and doesn't hide it (I am not going to lie, I thought he was a douche in the beginning). Nikki regrets arriving to Sweetness the moment she realizes that the man (Porter) she is helping, doesn't hide the disappointment in her appearance. She immediately thinks about the warnings her friend Amy gave her about small towns and southern men. Nikki underestimates her good looks because she doesn't try to impress anyone, but she thought that by moving to Sweetness she could hide from the heartbreak she experienced. I personally liked the misunderstandings and confusion between Porter and Nikki. She doesn't fall for his charms (so she thinks) and he can't believe that he can't convince her to stay, because women always fall for him. Anyway, I loved the way Porter's feelings developed for her. His feelings transitioned from trying to convince her to stay for the benefit of the town to his own. I just finished the second book and will be posting a review about it next time.
Bloodlines by Richelle Mead
I am a moody reader (I think I have established that in my last post) and in case you are wondering if I got my grilled cheese, well yes, yes I did. I don’t know what made me want one in the first place, but I had to please my stomach. I don’t do things for myself often, and in my current situation a grilled cheese was manageable. Sometimes, we do things for the ones we love regardless of how much it hurts us – have you read the Vampire Academy series? There is a lot of selflessness going on in that series, and not just romantically. I loved the characters (especially Adrian) and I am so happy that some of favorites characters are now part of the spin-off series! I was a little hesitant to start another series because I hate waiting for the books to become available. I am glad I was able to overcome the knowledge that anxiety will soon settle, because I will start complaining to everyone (sorry Stephanie) I know because the second book isn’t out Until May 2012 (gasp!). Let me apologize to you because I will not be giving a summary of Vampire Academy. Now, calm yourself, Ms. Mead did a great job with this book and if you haven’t read her previous series, well it doesn’t really matter. Trust me.
I am not going to lie; the beginning of the book was slow but once you get past the first chapter, please get yourself together because it’s good! Sydney Sage is an Alchemist (not like this one, good book though). Her “people” are trained to clean up after vampire occurrences, to protect the human race. Her father has trained her in many subjects, and in the belief that vampires are unnatural and an abomination. Even though Alchemist do not like vampires, it is in their best interest to keep their existence a secret from humans. Sydney is assigned a mission to protect Jill (princess) due to threats. Sydney and Jill are enrolled as sisters in an academy located in Palm Springs, California. When Jill and Sydney arrive at the academy they have to deal with insecurities, bullying, secrets, lies, and life threatening situations! It’s very exciting, and while the author makes the action interesting enough, I loved the interaction between the characters the most. I don't think I've ever liked so many characters before, it's probably because I am a real sucker for love triangles.
Anyway, I loved Sydney. She is smart, charismatic, and she has a huge heart. It was interesting to see the development of her character throughout the book. But you know who I love the most? Adrian. Oh Adrian, he is a real threat to my Edward Cullen y’all. He is such a tortured soul, but tries to play off his real feelings by being chivalrous (he still manages to be super charming). Sydney has a tremendous impact on Adrian’s careless attitude, and by the end of the book there are major improvements on his character. However, it seems like it’s all about to fall apart when someone from his past shows up to work with him. Please, if you are going to start a series, start with this one.
I am not going to lie; the beginning of the book was slow but once you get past the first chapter, please get yourself together because it’s good! Sydney Sage is an Alchemist (not like this one, good book though). Her “people” are trained to clean up after vampire occurrences, to protect the human race. Her father has trained her in many subjects, and in the belief that vampires are unnatural and an abomination. Even though Alchemist do not like vampires, it is in their best interest to keep their existence a secret from humans. Sydney is assigned a mission to protect Jill (princess) due to threats. Sydney and Jill are enrolled as sisters in an academy located in Palm Springs, California. When Jill and Sydney arrive at the academy they have to deal with insecurities, bullying, secrets, lies, and life threatening situations! It’s very exciting, and while the author makes the action interesting enough, I loved the interaction between the characters the most. I don't think I've ever liked so many characters before, it's probably because I am a real sucker for love triangles.Anyway, I loved Sydney. She is smart, charismatic, and she has a huge heart. It was interesting to see the development of her character throughout the book. But you know who I love the most? Adrian. Oh Adrian, he is a real threat to my Edward Cullen y’all. He is such a tortured soul, but tries to play off his real feelings by being chivalrous (he still manages to be super charming). Sydney has a tremendous impact on Adrian’s careless attitude, and by the end of the book there are major improvements on his character. However, it seems like it’s all about to fall apart when someone from his past shows up to work with him. Please, if you are going to start a series, start with this one.
Half Hearts by Sherri Desbois
Losing her family at a young age, and then broken promises from the man she’d loved all her life, Charlie McCarty rarely allows anyone to get close to her. Resolved to live her life without love and determined to become a top-notch Vet, she begins her residency in Redfield. Fate, however, has a way of stepping in to change even the most obstinate set plans and forces Charlie to face her past, push the boundaries of her control and her heart to the brink of destruction. It started out as a celebration, a chance for Charlie to let her hair down and just let go of her firm control for just one evening, but meeting a sexy as hell cowboy—and his familiar best friend—ambush everything. With relentless determination, both cowboys set out to show her that she is everything they want to complete their lives. Charlie begins to dream, once again, for the future she thought lost to her years ago. When a terrifying figure from the past steps into their fragile romance, is their love enough to overcome the horror about to be unleashed or will it leave them with hearts broken in half?Zuyen and I started this blog because, duh, we love books. We were on the same page from the very beginning: we wanted to write about the books we love, not the ones we don't. We didn't want to start a blog so we could review anything and everything we read including good, bad, and ugly... but to bring to light the books we adored so that others could adore them right along with us.
The absolute last thing I want to do is say anything negative. Not about a book or an author. It makes me feel icky and I start to cringe and twitch and generally feel bad about myself. I mean, who am I to criticize anyone? Especially an author. But let's be honest. Books are totally subject to interpretation. What one might love, another might hate. Everyone has different perceptions.
With that being said, I might sometimes say things that maybe aren't very nice but I don't want that to take away from the fact that I'm (likely) telling you about a book I LOVED. (I think I have a guilt complex. Blame it on my divorce.)
That brings us to Half Hearts by Sherri Desbois. Which I so enjoyed. I read the synopsis and thought "meh" but then I scrolled through a couple reviews and the words "emotional" and "turmoil" and "angst-ridden" and "heartbreak" kept popping out at me and I am nothing if not a sucker for good, emotional books. This one had me twitching all over the place. And it was lovely.
So, what was the problem? (I mean obviously there was one, otherwise what was my reason for rambling on and on above?) The editing was atrocious. ("Y-O-U apostrophe R-E is YOU ARE; Y-O-U-R is YOUR." Name that TV show.) And, well, I was left with a couple of unanswered questions. (Cringe.) And the heroine used what I considered total non-issues as a reason to waffle back and worth. (Twitch.) (I really do hate to criticize.)
But this was Ms. Desbois' first novel. And a lovely first novel at that. It has wonderful characters, smokin' hot chemistry, and lots of emotional angst (my favorite). And you know what else? I loved the romance between Kegan and Trevor. (Two dudes. Gasp!) I'm not a fan of homo-erotica (which is why I'm struggling with my current book) and if you aren't either, don't despair! There wasn't any man-on-man action (except for a moment or two), but there was deep affection and an unfolding love between the two men that was really sweet. (It didn't even weird me out that much when their denim-covered cocks bumped against each other and they liked it.)
Oh, did I mention that this love story includes three? Yep, three people. Falling in love together. Doing the nasty together. Living happily ever after together. Three. (More the merrier and all that.)
Do you think polyamorous relationships can actually work? It makes me curious. Not to try it, mind you... just to know if people are ever successful.
Read the book. You'll like it. (I hope.)
Let Me Make a Recommendation
It's safe to say that as a female my moods can change depending on the situation. For example, this morning I made a grilled cheese sandwich. I was excited about my sandwich, it smelled sooo good. When I took a bite out of said edible material, it was super salty. Why was it salty? I must have used the wrong type of butter...I don't know, but I do know that it sabotaged my morning, and now I am obligated to buy myself a nice cup of coffee.
When it comes to reading, I read books based on my mood. A few weeks ago I wasn't into the "happily ever after" mood that I am used to. I wanted a different kind of "happy" so I read this book and this one. However, two months ago I was giddy to read about long lasting love and recommended this book to everyone I know. Let's just say that lately I have been feeling down. I know what you are thinking (I am going to read some depressing book), but you are wrong. I refuse to let my moods bring me down! Reading is supposed to improve my mood. So, I decided to read two of the three books that have me laugh in public (my number one is Lamb by Christopher Moore and it deserves its own post). The books are Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris and The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club by Laurie Notaro.
Let's just say that you took my recommendation very seriously but did not want to read one of these books. I know they are essays, and well high-school was years ago for some of us, but they have the potential of making you laugh! Anyway, let me share one of my favorite essays from Ms.Notaro's book.
I don't drink. Let me re-phrase that - I only drink when I am with Stephanie. We have a really good time together! She is super happy and I am super hot (temperature wise) and she laughs and I complain. It's perfect. So of course one of my favorite essay is the "stinkin'-drunk twelve-step program". I recommend you take a look through the list. I was surprised to know that these steps are insanely accurate with other people's behavior, not mine. I love to watch what people do while they are inebriated. It's amazing to see individuals open up, and try to be as free as a bird. No buts, no regrets, and no respect for personal space. Now here is the list, I really hope you enjoy it and I am sure you'll relate somehow.
Step One: The Call of the Drink
It beckons to you, you simply answer it. It sounds like a good idea, it feels right, but you decide you will not go too far.
Step Two: Economics
If funds are low, and you don't have an entire paycheck to blow, you must decide whether to do the Poor Man's Drunk (i.e., drinking on a completely empty stomach) or if there is some possibility that you can con others into providing for you.
Step Three: The Suitable Drinking Partner
Finding the appropriate person may sometimes prove a little difficult, but a sensible choice has no substitute. You must be careful not to choose a beginner, because you will inevitably end up taking care of them and wiping up body fluids, but you also must be careful not to choose someone who will be functioning well enough when you pass out to stick hot dogs down your pants or cement your eyes shut with toothpaste.
Step Four: The Clink of the Ice, the Crack of the Tab
The first sip that holds beautiful promises, the initial lick of the lips that christens the inebriation that lies patiently ahead. The drinker begins to feel at ease, shedding the sober skin in thicker flakes after each and every drink. (the next eight steps can follow in rapid succession or may occur simultaneously.)
Step Five: Sad Reminiscing
"I don't care if I saw him naked on the couch with that girl who works at Dairy Queen, I know he really loved me. Why did he leave me? Why? Can anyone tell me why?" the most worthless step of the entire twelve. It usually concerns relationships and can lead to potentially hazardous DWIs-Dialing While Intoxicated-which entails calling everyone you ever dated, since you are convinced that it is a completely excellent idea.
Step Six: Wanting to Get naked and Asking Strangers to Do the Same
Usually done after the DWI has already taken place, and the drinker has been rejected again.
Step Seven: Math
You start figuring out how many hours it will be until you have to be fully functioning again. "I can sleep fifteen more minutes if I skip a shower," "I'll wear what I'm wearing now and won't have to waste time looking for something clean."
Step Eight: "It's ten 'til One" Inventory
A quick assessment that no matter how much liquor you have, it will not be enough and you must get more, and NOW, because it is the most important mission you will ever embark on in your life.
Step Nine: Let's Get a Snack, Too
A journey to a drive-thru, because you are you are much too drunk to sit in a restaurant, though you are okay to drive. Purchase twenty dollars' worth of fast food that will most likely reappear in an altogether different from before sunrise. You will eat things at this point that you would not normally feed your dog, like convenience-store franks or three-for-a-dollar tacos.
Step Ten: I Love Being Me
You are witty. You being feeling beautiful, sexy, and thin. You really want to be naked now, and just about everybody is looking good. You will not think twice about sticking your tongue down a stranger's throat in a room full of a hundred people. you may also feel the need to tell assorted people that you love them, and this is a good indication that you should probably go home.
Step Eleven: Invisibility
You believe that you are invisible and can do things that will bear no witnesses, like peeing in a bush or puking on the side walk. It is at this point that you will not remeber the last thing you said or that you decided that the street looks like a very good place to lie down.
Step Twelve: The Complete Loop
You lose the ability to communicate, with the exception of nodding your head. Also evaporated is the decision-making process, all of your money, the use of your limbs, and, quite thankfully, consciousness.
When it comes to reading, I read books based on my mood. A few weeks ago I wasn't into the "happily ever after" mood that I am used to. I wanted a different kind of "happy" so I read this book and this one. However, two months ago I was giddy to read about long lasting love and recommended this book to everyone I know. Let's just say that lately I have been feeling down. I know what you are thinking (I am going to read some depressing book), but you are wrong. I refuse to let my moods bring me down! Reading is supposed to improve my mood. So, I decided to read two of the three books that have me laugh in public (my number one is Lamb by Christopher Moore and it deserves its own post). The books are Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris and The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club by Laurie Notaro.
Let's just say that you took my recommendation very seriously but did not want to read one of these books. I know they are essays, and well high-school was years ago for some of us, but they have the potential of making you laugh! Anyway, let me share one of my favorite essays from Ms.Notaro's book.
I don't drink. Let me re-phrase that - I only drink when I am with Stephanie. We have a really good time together! She is super happy and I am super hot (temperature wise) and she laughs and I complain. It's perfect. So of course one of my favorite essay is the "stinkin'-drunk twelve-step program". I recommend you take a look through the list. I was surprised to know that these steps are insanely accurate with other people's behavior, not mine. I love to watch what people do while they are inebriated. It's amazing to see individuals open up, and try to be as free as a bird. No buts, no regrets, and no respect for personal space. Now here is the list, I really hope you enjoy it and I am sure you'll relate somehow. The Stinkin'-Drunk Twelve-Step Program by Laurie Notaro
The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club Pg.39-42
The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club Pg.39-42
Step One: The Call of the Drink
It beckons to you, you simply answer it. It sounds like a good idea, it feels right, but you decide you will not go too far.
Step Two: Economics
If funds are low, and you don't have an entire paycheck to blow, you must decide whether to do the Poor Man's Drunk (i.e., drinking on a completely empty stomach) or if there is some possibility that you can con others into providing for you.
Step Three: The Suitable Drinking Partner
Finding the appropriate person may sometimes prove a little difficult, but a sensible choice has no substitute. You must be careful not to choose a beginner, because you will inevitably end up taking care of them and wiping up body fluids, but you also must be careful not to choose someone who will be functioning well enough when you pass out to stick hot dogs down your pants or cement your eyes shut with toothpaste.
Step Four: The Clink of the Ice, the Crack of the Tab
The first sip that holds beautiful promises, the initial lick of the lips that christens the inebriation that lies patiently ahead. The drinker begins to feel at ease, shedding the sober skin in thicker flakes after each and every drink. (the next eight steps can follow in rapid succession or may occur simultaneously.)
Step Five: Sad Reminiscing
"I don't care if I saw him naked on the couch with that girl who works at Dairy Queen, I know he really loved me. Why did he leave me? Why? Can anyone tell me why?" the most worthless step of the entire twelve. It usually concerns relationships and can lead to potentially hazardous DWIs-Dialing While Intoxicated-which entails calling everyone you ever dated, since you are convinced that it is a completely excellent idea.
Step Six: Wanting to Get naked and Asking Strangers to Do the Same
Usually done after the DWI has already taken place, and the drinker has been rejected again.
Step Seven: Math
You start figuring out how many hours it will be until you have to be fully functioning again. "I can sleep fifteen more minutes if I skip a shower," "I'll wear what I'm wearing now and won't have to waste time looking for something clean."
Step Eight: "It's ten 'til One" Inventory
A quick assessment that no matter how much liquor you have, it will not be enough and you must get more, and NOW, because it is the most important mission you will ever embark on in your life.
Step Nine: Let's Get a Snack, Too
A journey to a drive-thru, because you are you are much too drunk to sit in a restaurant, though you are okay to drive. Purchase twenty dollars' worth of fast food that will most likely reappear in an altogether different from before sunrise. You will eat things at this point that you would not normally feed your dog, like convenience-store franks or three-for-a-dollar tacos.
Step Ten: I Love Being Me
You are witty. You being feeling beautiful, sexy, and thin. You really want to be naked now, and just about everybody is looking good. You will not think twice about sticking your tongue down a stranger's throat in a room full of a hundred people. you may also feel the need to tell assorted people that you love them, and this is a good indication that you should probably go home.
Step Eleven: Invisibility
You believe that you are invisible and can do things that will bear no witnesses, like peeing in a bush or puking on the side walk. It is at this point that you will not remeber the last thing you said or that you decided that the street looks like a very good place to lie down.
Step Twelve: The Complete Loop
You lose the ability to communicate, with the exception of nodding your head. Also evaporated is the decision-making process, all of your money, the use of your limbs, and, quite thankfully, consciousness.
Rock Me by Cherrie Lynn
Oh. My. God. Given the chance, I'd gladly throw myself at Ms. Lynn's feet and pledge my undying loyalty and devotion. She has managed to take my favorite attributes and turn them into one to-die-for character. Oh, Brian... how I wish you were real. And, you know, looking for an almost-divorced almost-30-year-old. 
Brian is the perfect bad boy. All tattooed and pierced up. (Have you ever heard of an "apadravya" piercing? If not, go Google it immediately. I dare you.) He's a total don't-give-a-damn alpha male. Strong, confident, sexy. I was first "introduced" to him in Unleashed, his brother Evan's book. (Which was also good however seriously lacking in body art.) As soon as I realized Brian's story was available, I bought it. And I loved it. The end.
Candace has been in love with Brian for two years. She is the quintessential good girl. She's been sheltered by overprotective and overbearing parents her entire life. Parents who would absolutely disapprove (and loudly) of a relationship between her and Brian. Because Brian is a hot, mostly former hell raiser who grew up the underachiever in a family full of overachievers. And not many people can see past his past to the successful man he's become. Of course, Candace can. She knows he's a man worthy of love. And, also, she really wants to get in his pants but CAN YOU BLAME HER?
Rock Me was so good. It was sweet and fun and did I mention Brian is just so freaking hot I can't stand it? There were so many moments and scenes in the book that I had to reread. One in particular I had to reread more than once. (The concert. Buy this book for the concert scene alone. You'll thank me.)
I felt certain for most of the book that I'd rate it five stars. Which surprised even me 'cause I don't dole out five stars all willy-nilly to just any ole book. I mean, out of the last 183 books I've read, I've only given 14 of them the highest rating. (Yes, I counted.) So, why did Rock Me only end up with four stars? What went wrong, you might ask.
Candace is young; 23 to be exact. And despite my initial what the hell does a 23-year-old know about love reaction, I tried to look beyond that. (Hey, some of my favorite heroines have been 19, 20, 21-years-old. No big deal.) But. Candace appeared to come across as a typical wishy-washy 23-year-old. Yes, she was sweet, smart, lovely... but she was afraid to stand up to her parents and let that cause her to run from her relationship with Brian. Over and over and over again. Or so it seemed. (Maybe she only really ran from him, like, twice. But the back and forth stuff? Gets old quickly.)
However, I will say this: Ms. Lynn manages to inject some humor over Candace's behavior at the end of the book, during the happily-ever-after. I really, really appreciated that. It was refreshing. And I love that all of us (me, the author, the characters) could have a laugh about it.
God. Did I mention I really loved this book? Maybe I should go back and change it from 4 to 5 stars...
Brian is the perfect bad boy. All tattooed and pierced up. (Have you ever heard of an "apadravya" piercing? If not, go Google it immediately. I dare you.) He's a total don't-give-a-damn alpha male. Strong, confident, sexy. I was first "introduced" to him in Unleashed, his brother Evan's book. (Which was also good however seriously lacking in body art.) As soon as I realized Brian's story was available, I bought it. And I loved it. The end.
Candace has been in love with Brian for two years. She is the quintessential good girl. She's been sheltered by overprotective and overbearing parents her entire life. Parents who would absolutely disapprove (and loudly) of a relationship between her and Brian. Because Brian is a hot, mostly former hell raiser who grew up the underachiever in a family full of overachievers. And not many people can see past his past to the successful man he's become. Of course, Candace can. She knows he's a man worthy of love. And, also, she really wants to get in his pants but CAN YOU BLAME HER?
Rock Me was so good. It was sweet and fun and did I mention Brian is just so freaking hot I can't stand it? There were so many moments and scenes in the book that I had to reread. One in particular I had to reread more than once. (The concert. Buy this book for the concert scene alone. You'll thank me.)
I felt certain for most of the book that I'd rate it five stars. Which surprised even me 'cause I don't dole out five stars all willy-nilly to just any ole book. I mean, out of the last 183 books I've read, I've only given 14 of them the highest rating. (Yes, I counted.) So, why did Rock Me only end up with four stars? What went wrong, you might ask.
Candace is young; 23 to be exact. And despite my initial what the hell does a 23-year-old know about love reaction, I tried to look beyond that. (Hey, some of my favorite heroines have been 19, 20, 21-years-old. No big deal.) But. Candace appeared to come across as a typical wishy-washy 23-year-old. Yes, she was sweet, smart, lovely... but she was afraid to stand up to her parents and let that cause her to run from her relationship with Brian. Over and over and over again. Or so it seemed. (Maybe she only really ran from him, like, twice. But the back and forth stuff? Gets old quickly.)
However, I will say this: Ms. Lynn manages to inject some humor over Candace's behavior at the end of the book, during the happily-ever-after. I really, really appreciated that. It was refreshing. And I love that all of us (me, the author, the characters) could have a laugh about it.
God. Did I mention I really loved this book? Maybe I should go back and change it from 4 to 5 stars...
Trespass by Meg Maguire
I've tried to tell people that I have a problem reading too much and I get the same response every time. "Seems like a good problem to have." No. No, it isn't. I mean, sure, I love to read and I suppose if I'm going to do too much of anything then reading ain't so bad a vice, however now there's this here blog and you'd think I'd have plenty of material to write about except that I can't seem to quit reading long enough to do so. Vicious cycle, that.Anyway, in case you're wondering, there is a point to this story. You see, I finished Meg Maguire's Trespass a couple days ago and I loved it. I told myself to write about it while it was still fresh in my memory, but did I listen? Of course not. I've read two other books since then and the details are starting to fade. I hate that.
Many would envy veterinarian Russ Gray’s life in rural Montana’s wide-open spaces. Russ calls it lonely. In a country with more cattle than eligible females, he doesn’t envision his seven years as a widower ending anytime soon. Until a mysterious woman lands at his door in the dead of night, riddled with buckshot. Sarah Novak hates lying to such a kind, handsome man, but if an upstanding citizen like Russ finds out why she’s been three weeks on the run, he’d surely turn her in. Yet she can’t refuse his offer to let her stay until she heals, no questions asked. From the start they fall into an easy companionship, then teasing flirtation flares into an unexpected intimate connection. But no matter how right it feels in his arms, guilt tugs at Sarah’s heart. Russ doesn’t deserve what she must do next. When Russ wakes up with an empty bed—and an empty wallet—his first instinct isn’t to call the cops…it’s to catch her and find out why his urge to protect her overshadows all reason. Because he’s had a taste of real passion, and he’s not letting it slip away without a fight.For me, there has never been so fine a line between loving and hating a book until now. It could have very easily gone in the latter direction had I not tumbled head first into love with Russ and Sarah and all their sweetness and imperfection. The circumstances leading them to each other were, I hate to say, utterly ridiculous. But I could have spent hundreds of more pages reading about them, their lives, their new love and unfolding relationship. There were moments both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. It was lovely.
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