Smexy Christmas....

Hey Book Lovers! 


I think this Christmas needs a little hotness, don't you agree? :D

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

Shell's top 5 Christmas desserts for Christmas time!

Hey Book Lovers! 

I'm in charge of baking dessert this Christmas, so I've been looking at recipes online and in my many cookbooks I have at home. I've tried some out and these are the 5 that work the best for me! 

Enjoy! :D

5. Yule Log

http://www.channel4.com/4food/recipes/seasonal/christmas/chocolate-yule-log-recipe

4. Sherry Trifle

http://uktv.co.uk/food/recipe/aid/641087 

3. Christmas Mess

http://uktv.co.uk/food/recipe/aid/608956 





 



2. Malt Chocolate Cheesecake
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/988642/malt-chocolate-cheesecake 

1. Coconut Christmas Cookies
http://www.allyou.com/food/celebrations/easy-christmas-cookies-00411000073678/page5.html 











Drop me a message here or on Facebook and let me know how you all got on with these awesome recipes!

Love 
Shell xxx 

REVIEW: A Cajun Werewolf Christmas

Ho Ho Ho! Hello Book Lovers! 

The Christmas season is upon us and it's time to break out our smexy Christmas reading. There is nothing better that being curled up on the sofa with a hot toddie and good book! 

A Cajun Werewolf Christmas 

By Selena Blake

Join Deveraux Pack for their first Christmas together. With Angel and Jules’ wedding days away, the pack braces the snow and cold for an unforgettable day. The men place a bet to see who can come up with the best baby present. And Mother Nature provides one last surprise for everyone. 

Review!

Wow....I wish I had been there for their Christmas! It seemed like so much fun! Skiing contests, best baby present contest, Christmas cookies, wedding and...well I won't spoil the book for you! Seriously get this novella! It will make you laugh and just wish that you where apart of the Deveraux Pack!

Love 

Shell xxx

REVIEW: Fangs, Fur & Mistletoe

Fangs, Fur & Mistletoe by Selena Blake

Vampiress Coco Jeffress has one week to get her mojo back. After a long sexual drought, Mystic Isle, the exclusive pleasure playground for paranormals, is just what the doctor ordered. For once she's choosing lust over love. Tall, dark, and oh-so-handsome werewolf Grayson West is well versed in the arts of war and women. 

He's got one week to blow off some steam before he heads back into the field and he's more than willing to help a lady find her inner vixen. Especially when she's the same beautiful blue eyed vamp he met one hundred years ago and has never been able to forget. 

They were once sworn enemies, pulled apart by war. Now they're lovers. But history has a way of rearing its ugly head and their new relationship will have to stand up to the test of loyalty, friendship and even time itself. 

REVIEW!

Talk about your star cross lovers! This book has everything you need for a fab Christmas read! Coco and Grayson use to know each other during the war, then many years later they bump into each other on Mystic Isle. AND that is when things get VERY steamy, sexy, hot and yummy! hehehe! I loved this story and I can't wait to read more! FYI! I loved the God in this book! He is just such a cutie! 

Love 

Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 10

Hey Book Lovers

Task 10 is.......to show me a photo of the snow in your home town. If there isn't any snow then show me a photo of snowy day from last year or the year before.

Send the photo to: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk

Love Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 9

Hey Book Lovers

What is or was your favourite book you have read? It could be a paranormal themed story or a normal x-mas story :D

Email me your answer at: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk

Love Shell xxx

12Days of Bookmas - Task 8

Hey book lovers!

Task 8 is........tell me what your favourite x-mas movie is and why! :D My Fav x-mas movie has to be Muppets Christmas Carol!

Love
Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 7

Hey BookLovers!

I love x-mas trees! f-ing love them! so for Task 7, I want you to take a photo of your x-mas tree! :D

Send them to my email address:
michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk

Love
Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 6

Hey Book Lovers

Since we all LOVE books here, I had such a good idea for task 6! When I was at college we had to create our own businesses  and we could only spend a pound ($1). so my group make Corner Bookmakers.

 So for Task 6, I want you to make corner Bookmakers!please submit your enters here: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk

In the subject box please put : Shells Book Corner - 12Days of Bookmas  

http://tallystreasury.com/2011/02/corner-page-bookmarks-3/
The will help you make them :D

Love
Shell xxx

12 Days of Christmas - Task 5

Hi Book Lovers

It's almost Chrismas day! i'm so excited for it!
So for task 5.......I want you to tell me what is your favourite Christmas song is and why!

Love
Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 4

Hey Book Lovers!

So how is everyone liking 12 Days of Bookmas so far? I know I'm really enjoying it! :D

So for Task 4, which is pretty simple,  I want you to comment below or email me with your answer. 

In my family we have some traditions and they are: 

1. We all go down to Gran's for boxing day to have a second x-mas.
2. We all eat food from Floors Castle. (It's the food my mum brings down to Gran's) 
3. Everyone, apart from me, mum and my wee bro, talk about politics. businesses and other stuff we find that we don't care about.

The question is.....Do you have any family traditions at Christmas time?

Love 

Shell xxx

REVIEW: Vampire for Christmas

Hey Book Lovers!

Another vampire book for you to sink your fangs into this Christmas!

VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS BY FELICITY HEATON

It was one last mission. Shannon, a demon hunter with the agency, is looking forward to leaving behind the small town and the vampire she's been stuck with for the past two years. Things are getting complicated fast and she wants out. A fresh start, free of her vampire partner, awaits her if she can survive their final mission and the lonely Christmas holidays.

It was one last mission. Rafe, a vampire doing time with the agency, watches it approach with dread weighing heavily in his stomach. Two years of working with Shannon has been difficult, especially since he started falling for her, but he doesn't want their partnership to end. He has barely a few days to make her face her feelings and stop her from leaving, and he intends to do just that.

When a slimy demon threatens the season of peace and goodwill, it's the chance Rafe has been waiting for and the moment Shannon secretly fears. Rafe's determination to prise open her heart and her own resolve to keep it closed clash as violently as they do with the demon, and threatens to end as messily.

Can Rafe make Shannon see that his love for her is real and that she feels something for him too? Can Shannon face her fears and her past, and stop herself from running away from both? Will a wish on a star bring her what her heart truly desires--a vampire for Christmas?

Review!

Vampire for Christmas is a great book, you will laugh and you will cry at times through-out the book. Shannon who has kept her heart closed off for so long has finally opened it up to Rafe, and it just so happens that they are partners in a demon hunter agency. They have been partners for the last two years and Shannon is looking forward to leaving the agency and Rafe behind, but Rafe is not looking forward to Shannon leaving, he has fallen for her and he doesn't want her to leave. I love the way that this book is set up from beginning to end, the way that Felicity describes her characters and how she describes their feelings. It is a great book especially for this time of year. I loved it and I know you will too.

Love 

Shell xxx 

12 Days of Bookmas - Task 3

Hey Book Lovers!

Guess that x-mas book tile! I'm going to give you five Christmas book tiles but there will be letters missing and it's your task to figure what the tiles of the books are!

1. A_L _ wa_t _o_ _hr_s_m__

2. Sa_ t_'_ _x_cu_t_i_e

3. A _a_un Were_o_f Ch_r_sm_s

4. _am_p_i_e F_r _hr_s_m__

5. F_a_g , _u_ & M_st_e_oe

So the third Bookmas Task is......to send me the answers! Then I want you to email the picture to this address: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk
In the subject box, make sure it says "Bookmas entry - Shells Book Corner" 

Love 

Shell xxx

REVIEW: The Bite Before Christmas

Hey Book Lovers! 

It's time for a vampy x-mas review! 

THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS BY LYNSAY SANDS AND JEANIENE FROST

This holiday season, join two of today’s most popular paranormal authors for a special look into their worlds, where creatures are always stirring and no one sleeps through the night. . . . The Bite Before Christmas

The Gift by Lynsay Sands

Teddy Brunswick knows about the immortals among us. He’s worked with them, called them friend—but he never counted on being snowed in with one over Christmas. Katricia Argeneau is a tasty little bundle and she seems to feel the same way about him. Problem is, he’s not sure she feels quite the same way. After all, the snowstorm has derailed her blood delivery, which leaves him the only available meal on the menu. . . .

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost

Cat and Bones are looking forward to a normal holiday—at least as “normal” as it gets for the combustible vampire couple and their otherworldly friends and family. But their yuletide plans are shattered when a stranger shows up and reveals long-buried family secrets that threaten to take a bite out of their holiday cheer . . . and lives.

REVIEW!

There's nothing like a Christmas themed book to put me in the holiday spirit and this anthology is no exception.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands

Katricia is ancient and has spent so many years alone that she no longer craves food or sex but all of that changes when she meets Teddy. At first she's reluctant to inform him of the fact that they're mates for fear of him running for the hills. It's a Christmas story though, so as expected, everyone lives happily ever after!

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost

Cat and Bones are spectacular together and I breathed in the pages faster than I would have liked. Home for the Holidays is a quick and spicy read that'll put you in the mood for more things than just Christmas (if you get my meaning!).

The two stories in The Bite Before Christmas are festive while managing to maintain their paranormal cores. A great read for those looking to read something holiday-themed without having to go overboard on the Xmas cheer.

Love 

Shell xxx 

12 Days of Bookmas! - Task two

Hey Book Lovers!

Thank you for the lovely emails with your bookmas tree entry's! I loved them :) 

On the 11th Day of Bookmas, 

my true book lover gave to me, 

a CAKE!!!!!

So the second Bookmas Task is......take a photo of a x-mas themed cake or cupcakes or cookies! (See example)! Then I want you to email the picture to this address: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk
In the subject box, make sure it says "Bookmas entry - Shells Book Corner" 

Love 

Shell xxx

12 Days of Bookmas!

Hey Book Lovers!

Tis the season to be jolly! Fa la la la la, la la la la! I hope everyone is having a magical December and I also hope that everyone is ready for Christmas!  I know I am, I've got everyone sorted, tree is up, decorations are up, presents are wrapped and cards are written. I've been practising baking X-mas cupcakes and cookies.

The 12 Days of Bookmas is where for 12 days I will be setting out tasks until 20th December 2012. The 12 Days of Bookmas will be starting on 8th December 2012 and will end of 20th December 2012. This contest is WORLDWIDE!

DAY ONE OF BOOKMAS!!!

So the first Bookmas Task is......take a photo of a bookmas tree! (See example below)! Then I want you to email the picture to this address: michellelouisepratley@yahoo.co.uk
In the subject box, make sure it says "Bookmas entry - Shells Book Corner"  

My lame attempt at making a bookmas tree! I hope you's can all do better lol 

Here is some proper examples that I took borrowed off Google :P 

The winners of each task will win a random book and some swag BUT the winners won't get their prizes until after the New Year cause of the posting issues lol


Love 

Shell xxxx

REVIEW: Santas's Executive

Merry X-Mas Book Lovers! 

As you may remember I did a review on Charmed Spirits.....sooo I would like you introduce the second book in the Holiday, Montana series! 


Santa's Executive by Carrie Ann Ryan!

Justin Cooper wasn’t always the straight-laced Holiday Elementary School principal. In his youth, he broke all the rules and enjoyed being the bad Cooper brother.  One Christmas Eve night he got a little too rowdy and things changed forever. Now the consequences of that fateful night have come back in full force and the myths of Christmas might be more real than he thought.

Rina Brewer is one of Santa’s elves. Not the tiny cute little toy maker, but the sexy, petite, energy filled bombshell kind. She’s come to Holiday to aid Justin in his new role as Santa’s executive, but as soon as she sees the sexy ex-bad boy, she realizes the job may be more than she bargained for.

As they work together to make this Christmas one to remember, an old foe has come to town to make sure that his holiday is the coldest yet.

Warning: Contains a perky elf who dreams of something more, a Christmas myth who may be a baddie, and a sexy ex-bad boy who craves Christmas cookies…and a certain perky blonde.

REVIEW!

Wow! Just wow! This book as so much funmas! I loved the twist about Justin being one of Santa's Exective because I didn't know what that was until Rina explained it all. I have to say it suits Justin to the letter! This is the perfect Christmas book because it just makes you feel the spirit of Christmas as your reading it! Jack Frost is such a dick! All I wanted to do was to punch him in his ice cald face! I can't wait for 'Finding Abigail' next year in February! I want to read it now! 

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00AG3A0GU
B&N: http://bit.ly/TAfW9n
ARe: http://bit.ly/Tzbzcj
Kobo: http://bit.ly/QvTVsF
Itunes: Links Coming Soon

Love 

Shell xxx

WINNER of VAMPIRE MONDAY!

Winner of VAMPIRE MONDAY is......

Jennifer C!

Please keep an eye on your emails 

and 

thank you to everyone that entered this giveaway! 

Stay tuned for ANGEL MONDAY that will be coming very soon!   

REVIEW: ANGEL IN CHAINS

Hey Book Lovers!

Oh boy do I have a treat for you!!! I am a fan of Cynthia Eden's, I have been over the past few years ever since I discovered her book The Vampire's Kiss. Since then I have been an awesome follower of her great work. So today I give you.....one sexy Angel, one crazy ass hybrid, one smexy human and one chance to again fate.........ANGEL IN CHAINS!

ANGEL IN CHAINS BY CYNTHIA EDEN

As a fallen Angel of Death, Azrael is cursed to walk the earth alone in search of redemption. One night, as he wanders the streets of New Orleans, he discovers a woman surrounded by panther shifters.  No longer able to contain the anger simmering within, Az summons his dark powers and attacks, determined to protect this innocent human from certain death.

Only Jade Pierce is no delicate flower.  She’s spent years learning to survive and fight the evil forces sent by her ex-lover who refuses to let her go. But after seeing Az in action, she figures she could use a little supernatural help. And so she plans a course of seduction guaranteed to arouse his interest and his angelic passions…

**Unedited Excerpt from ANGEL IN CHAINS**

“They’re probably hunting you now.” He walked away from her and headed toward the window that looked out over the street. “Hunting us,” he added quietly and realized he was anticipating the fight. When had he come to crave the fury? When had the bloodlust grown so within him?
She stood as still as a statue before his door. Her hand was up, hovering above the doorknob, and he could almost feel the fear rolling off her in waves.
But then she took a deep breath, and he saw her small shoulders straighten. She shoved back the heavy tangle of her hair and turned to face him. “How did you get us away from them?”
Az shrugged once more.
She took a step toward him. “You . . . you know what they are, right?”
Amusement flared in him.  “I did notice the claws.” Rather hard to miss those.
She blinked, and her eyes narrowed as she studied him. He’d never seen quite that shade of green before. She crept closer, bringing that light scent of strawberries to him. When she stopped, she was less than a foot away from him. It would be so easy to touch her.
Though he knew well just how dangerous a touch could be.
Yet she stood close enough to kiss. But angels weren’t supposed to kiss mortals . . .
You’re not an angel anymore. The whisper came from deep inside of him. The same tempting whisper that he’d been fighting since his fall.
You’re not an angel. Do what you want.
You’re not an angel. Take what you want.
He was discovering that he could want many things.
The top of the woman’s head barely reached his shoulders. She tilted her head and stared up at him. Then her gaze swept down his body.
Az stiffened even before she whispered, “What are you?”
Rather insulting question. “I’m the man who saved your life.” Did she need to know more? He didn’t think so.
Her hand lifted and pressed against her mouth. A small trace of blood still rested near her lips. “There were three of them, and, you’re big and all, but there’s still just one of you.”
She might just be one of the most ungrateful humans he’d ever encountered. Stifling a sigh, Az inclined his head. “You’re welcome.”
She stared in surprise for a moment. Then she laughed. A soft, strangely lyrical sound spilled from her lips, and her wide smile lit up her face.
Not just pretty.
Az tensed as the wave of need hit him. Not lust for blood or death. This time . . .  the lust was just for her.
You’re not an angel anymore. Take what you want.
“Yeah,” she said, as her laughter faded but the smile still lingered on her lips, “thanks for saving my ass.” Then she held out her hand to him. “My name’s Jade. Jade Pierce.”
He stared at her hand. She wiggled her fingers at him. Slowly, Az lifted his own hand and caught those wiggling fingers. Soft. “I am Azrael.” He dropped her hand. He hadn’t used the name Azrael in centuries. “Most just call me Az.”
“Well, Az, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Her gaze slid over his body again. “But I’m gonna have to ask, once more, just what are—”
The door crashed in behind her. She didn’t scream this time, but maybe Az just didn’t give her a chance to scream.
Because as the three black panthers—fully shifted panthers—leapt into the room, jumping over the broken door, Az grabbed Jade and threw her toward the couch.
Then he ran right for the snarling beasts.
He should have known better than to let down his guard. Shifters and their damn acute senses. They’d caught his scent, her scent, and followed them right through the Quarter.
“I warned you,” Az snapped and leapt at the nearest panther. He caught the beast’s front paws and shoved the giant cat back. “You should have listened.” There would be no more warnings now. Only death.

Review!!!

OMFG! I have been waiting forever for this book! I have read about the other two smexy angels, Keenan and Sam, but Az's book is the one I've been waiting for. OMG! It was freaking amazing! My heart broke for Az and Jade so many times but I have to admit I was kinda jealous over their relationship because I want Az for myself! hehehehe XD It was fab to see Sam, Seline and Beelzebub again but it was a shame not to see Keenan and Nicole, perhaps next time? There are so many twists and turns in this book that had me crying for 15 minutes (I'm sure Cynthia knows which one I mean) and shouting at my Kindle, "How could Cynthia do that?!?!?!?! That is just sooooo mean!" I would say that while crying but then I stopped once I noticed it was just a trick. So I relaxed and got back into the book. 

I defo give this book a 1000000 out of 1000000! :D I really can't wait for book 4 and I can't help but wonder who it will be about! 

To Buy

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Books-A-Million
IndieBound
Kensington Books

Cynthia's website: http://www.cynthiaeden.com/books/ 

Love 

Shell xxx

REVIEW: Mistress of Pain and Illusions by ER Pierce

Hey Book Lovers!

Kinky vampires time! You all may remember Eating out review I did a while back. Well I'm exploring ER Pierce's books and so far I am LOVING THEM! :D

MISTRESS OF PAIN AND ILLUSION BY ER PIERCE

An Erotic Halloween Horror Short Story.

Vampires Aline and Meri walk into a bar in the Backbay of Boston, and all hell breaks loose.

Contains erotic content as well as M/M, M/F/M and F/F sexual scenes. Blood, sex, magic and death. A perfect combination for Halloween.

REVIEW!

OMG! This is one kinky, dark vampire sex session! Aline and Meri are so badass and smexy! I think the part I liked the best was when Aline thought of her and Meri's pass. So I'm looking forward to reading more about the kinky lovers :D

ER Pierce's website: http://erpierce.com/

To buy: 

Amazon UK 

Amazon US 

Love 

Shell xxx 

VAMPIRE MONDAY Giveaway!

Hey Book Lovers! 

Welcome to a fangtastic VAMPIRE MONDAY! 


How about we start off with some ebooks from Amazon then work our way to Kobo and nook? Yeah I think that's a good idea! Just click on the tile of each ebook and it will take you straight to the website :D






 AMAZON!

Covet by Felicity Heaton 
£1.99 or $3.19
They've burned for each other for two years, the forbidden attraction between them growing each night. Now resisting the sinful desires of their hearts is becoming impossible.

Javier knows better than to succumb to his hunger for Lilah. The mortal female belongs to a powerful aristocrat patron of Vampirerotique, the theatre he runs with three other vampires. A single touch is all it would take to break the sacred law of his kind, sentencing himself to death, but his passion for her has become too fierce to ignore and he will risk everything to make Lilah his.

Lilah has fought her desire for Javier since arriving at his theatre as a servant but each glance he has stolen, his eyes promising pleasure that will satisfy her longing for him, has chipped away at her defences and she can no longer deny her need and her forbidden feelings for the powerful vampire male.

When they find themselves alone in a private box during one of the erotic performances, will they surrender to their passion and live out their wildest fantasies in a night of wicked pleasure or will the threat of Lilah's master keep them apart forever?

Adults only--highly erotic vampire romance book / novella, contains light bondage 

NOOK!

Once Burned by Jeaniene Frost
$4.27

After a tragic accident scarred her body and destroyed her dreams, Leila never imagined that the worst was still to come: terrifying powers that let her channel electricity and learn a person's darkest secrets through a single touch. Leila is doomed to a life of solitude...until creatures of the night kidnap her, forcing her to reach out with a telepathic distress call to the world's most infamous vampire...

Vlad Tepesh inspired the greatest vampire legend of all--but whatever you do, don't call him Dracula. Vlad's ability to control fire makes him one of the most feared vampires in existence, but his enemies have found a new weapon against him - a beautiful mortal with powers to match his own.

When Vlad and Leila meet, however, passion ignites between them, threatening to consume them both. It will take everything that they are to stop an enemy intent on bringing them down in flames.

KOBO!

How to Marry a Millionaire Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks

£2.99

So what if he's a bit older and usually regards a human female as dinner, not a dinner date? Yes, Roman Draganesti is a vampire, but a vampire who lost one of his fangs sinking his teeth into something he shouldn't have. Now he has one night to find a dentist before his natural healing abilities close the wound, leaving him a lop–sided eater for all eternity.

Things aren't going well for Shanna Whelan either...After witnessing a gruesome murder by the Russian mafia, she's next on their hit list. And her career as a dentist appears to be on a downward spiral because she's afraid of blood. When Roman rescues her from an assassination attempt, she wonders if she's found the one man who can keep her alive.

Though the attraction between them is immediate and hot, can Shanna conquer her fear of blood to fix Roman's fang? And if she does, what will prevent Roman from using his fangs on her...

  VAMPIRE MONDAY

GIVEAWAY!!! 

Just answer this very simple question:  

"What is your favourite vampire book (or books) of all time?!" 

Then I want you to:

- Share vampire Monday on your Facebook and Twitter and tag me in the post. 

 And remember to:

-PLEASE leave your email address when you comment down below! 

 And that's it! :D 

The giveaway ends on Wednesday 5th December 2012! (This giveaway is  worldwide!)

If you don't have my twitter of Facebook then check out the links below: 

Twitter: @shellbookcorner

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shells-Book-Corner/282005648527616

Here is what one lucky winner will win!!!!!!

She fights. He bites. Janie Parkers a supernatural assassin - not by choice, but whats a girl gonna do? The only thing standing between her and decapitation at the hands of her hellish boss is a magical artifact called The Eye. To get it, all Janie has to do is find a dark, broody vampire named Michael Quinn and take it. Easy, right? Except if Quinn keeps kissing her that way, she just might lose her head . . . in more ways than one. Former vampire hunter Michael Quinn is determined to become human again. If he grabs hold of The Eye and makes a wish then boom, everythings good with the world. But now Quinn has a sassy tagalong with a long, delectable neck and orders to stake him on sight. He just hopes his first bite wont be Janies last moment on earth . . .

 I've hoped you've enjoyed VAMPIRE MONDAY as much as I have!  Good luck to everyone that has entered VAMPIRE MONDAY giveaway! If you do read the vampire books then stop by Shells Book Corner on Facebook and let me know if they are any good!

Until next time.....

Love 
Shell xxx

REVIEW: Embrace The Darkness by Alexandra Ivy!

Hey Book Lovers!

Here is my review on Embrace the Darkness by Alexandra Ivy!

EMBRACE THE DARKNESS

Lady Shay is the last of her kind.  Half human, half Shalott, her blood is a precious aphrodisiac to vampires, who consider it more precious than gold.  Though Shalotts are renowned assassins, a curse held over Shay lands her on the slave auction block, where her fate is uncertain...

Viper, the beguiling chief of a deadly vampire clan, can't explain his longing to possess the beautiful Shalott who once saved his life, but now he is free to do anything he wants with her.  Strangely, while he desires both Shay's blood and body, he wants her to surrender willingly.

A hidden evil has been stalking Shay since she left the slave market with Viper.  It is an evil that endangers the very existence of Viper's kind, and there's no reason he should court such danger just to protect a Shalott.  But the love he feels for Shay is enough to make him willing to go to hell and back if it means spending an eternity with her in his arms...

Excerpt

The auction-house on the outskirts of Chicago didn't look like a cesspit.
Behind the iron fences the elegant brick structure sprawled over the landscape with a visible arrogance. The rooms were large with vaulted ceilings that boasted beautiful murals and elegant chandeliers. And on the advice of a professional they had been decorated with thick ivory carpets, glossy dark paneling, and hand carved furniture.
The overall atmosphere was the sort of quiet hush that only money could buy. Lots and lots of money.
It was the sort of swanky place that should be peddling rare paintings, priceless jewels, and museum artifacts.
Instead it was no more than a flesh market. A sewer where demons were sold like so much meat.
There was nothing pleasant about the slave trade. Not even when the trade was demons rather than humans. It was a sordid business that attracted every decadent, demented, slime ball in the country.
They came for all sorts of pathetic reasons.
Those who bought demons for mercenaries or body guards. Those who lusted after the more exotic sex slaves. Those who believed the blood of demons could bring them magic or eternal life.
And those who purchased demons to be released into their private lands and hunted like wild animals.
The bidders were men and women without conscience or morals. Only enough money to sate their twisted pleasures.
And at the top of the dung heap was the owner of the auction-house, Evor. He was one of the lesser trolls who made his living upon the misery of others with a smile on his face.
Someday Shay intended to kill Evor.
Unfortunately it would not be today.
Or rather tonight.
Attired in ridiculous harem pants and a tiny sequined top that revealed far more than it concealed, she paced the cramped cell behind the auction rooms. Her long raven black hair had been pulled to a braid that hung nearly to her waist. Better to reveal her slanted golden eyes, the delicate cast to her features, and the bronzed skin that marked her as something other than human.
Less than two months before she had been a slave to a coven of witches who intended to bring Armageddon to all demons. At the time she had thought anything was preferable to being their toady as she helplessly watched their evil plotting.
Hell, it's tough to top genocide.
It was only when she had been forced back to the power of Evor that she understood that death was not always the worst fate.
The grave was really nothing compared to what waited for her beyond the door.
Without thought Shay struck out with her foot, sending the lone table sailing through the air to crash against the iron bars with astonishing force.
From behind her came a heavy sigh that had her spinning to regard the small gargoyle hiding behind a chair in the far corner.
Levet wasn't much of a gargoyle.
Oh, he possessed the traditional grotesque features. Thick grey skin, reptilian eyes, horns, and cloven hoofs. He even possessed a long tail he polished and pampered with great pride. Unfortunately, despite his frightening appearance he was barely three feet tall and worse, as far as he was concerned, he possessed a pair of delicate, gossamer wings that would have been more fitting on a sprite or fairy than a lethal creature of the dark.
As if to add to his humiliation his powers were unpredictable under the best of circumstances, and his courage more often than not missing in action.
It was little wonder he had been voted out of the Gargoyle Guild and forced to fend for himself. They claimed he was an embarrassment to the entire community, and not one had stepped forward when he had been captured and made a slave by Evor.
Shay had taken the pathetic creature under her protection the moment she had been forced back to the auction house. Not only because she possessed a regrettable tendency to leap to the defense of anyone weaker than herself, but because she knew that it aggravated Evor to have his favorite whipping boy taken away.
The troll might hold the curse that bound her, but if he pressed her far enough she would be willing to kill him, even if it meant an end to her own life.
"Cherie, did the chair do something I did not see or were you just attempting to teach it a lesson?" Levet demanded, his voice low and laced with a lilting French accent.
Not at all the sort of thing to improve his status among the gargoyles.
Shay smiled wryly. "I was imagining it was Evor."
"Strange, they do not greatly resemble one another."
"I have a good imagination."
"Ah." He gave a ridiculous wiggle of his thick brow. "In that case I do not suppose you are imagining I'm Brad Pitt?"
Shay smiled wryly. "I'm good, but not that good, gargoyle."< o:p>
"A pity."
Her brief amusement faded. "No, the pity is that it was a table and not Evor smashed to pieces."
"A delightful notion, but a mere dream." The grey eyes slowly narrowed.
"Unless you intend to be stupid?"
Shay deliberately widened her eyes. "Who me?"
"Mon dieu," the demon growled. "You intend to fight him."
"I can't fight him. Not as long as I remain held by the curse."
"As if that has ever halted you." Levet tossed aside the pillow to reveal his tail furiously twitching about his hoofs. A sure sign of distress. "You can't kill him, but that never keeps you from trying to kick his fat troll ass."
"It passes the time."
"And leaves you screaming in agony for hours." He abruptly shuddered.
"Cherie, I can't bear seeing you like that. Not again. It's insane to battle against fate."
Shay grimaced. As part of the curse she was punished for any attempt to harm her master. The searing pain that gripped her body could leave her gasping on the ground or even passed out for hours. Lately, however, the punishment had become so brutal she feared that each time she pressed her luck it might be the last time.
She gave a tug on her braid. A gesture that revealed the frustration that smoldered just below the surface.
"You think I should just give in? Accept defeat?"
"What choice do you have? What choice do any of us have? Not all the fighting in the world can change the fact we belong…" Levet rubbed one of his stunted horns. "How do you say…lock, stock and jug…"
"Barrel."
"Ah yes, barrel to Evor. And that he can do whatever he wants with us."
Shay gritted her teeth as she turned to glare at the iron bars that held her captive. "Shit. I hate this. I hate Evor. I hate this cell. I hate those pathetic demons up there waiting to bid on me. I almost wish I had let those witches bring an end to all of us."
"You will get no arguments from me, my sweet Shay," Levet agreed with a sigh.
Shay closed her eyes. Dammit. She hadn't meant the words. She was tired and frustrated, but she was no coward. Just the fact she had survived the past century proved that.
"No," she muttered. "No."
Levet gave a flap of his wings. "And why not? We are trapped here like rats in a maze until we can be sold to the highest bidder. What could be worse?"
Shay smiled without humor. "Allowing fate to win."
"What?"
"So far fate or destiny or fortune or whatever the hell you want to call it has done nothing but crap on us," Shay growled. "I'm not going to just give in and allow it to thumb its nose at me as I slink into my grave. One of these days I'm going to have an opportunity to spit fate in its face. That's what keeps me fighting."
There was a long silence before the gargoyle moved to stand near enough that he could rub his head on her leg. It was an unconscious gesture.
A quest for reassurance that he would rather die than admit.
"I am uncertain I have ever heard such an inelegant speech, but I believe you. If anyone can get away from Evor, it's you."
Absently Shay shifted the horn poking into her thigh. "I'll come back for you, Levet, that much I promise."
"Well, well, isn't this touching?" Abruptly appearing before the iron bars of the cell Evor smiled to reveal his pointed teeth. "Beauty and the Beast."
With a smooth motion Shay had pressed Levet behind her and turned to regard her captor.
A sneer touched her face as the troll stepped into the cell and locked the door behind him. Evor easily passed for human. An incredibly ugly human.
He was a short, pudgy man with a round, squishy face and heavy jowls.
His hair was little more than tufts of stray strands that he carefully combed over his head. And his small black eyes had a tendency to flash red when he was annoyed.
The eyes he hid behind black framed glasses.
The thickly fleshed body he hid behind an obscenely expensive tailored suit.
Only the teeth marked him for the troll he was.
That and his utter lack of morals.
"Screw you, Evor," Shay muttered.
The nasty smile widened. "You wish."
Shay narrowed her gaze. The troll had been trying to get into her bed since gaining control of her curse. The only thing that had halted him from forcing her had been the knowledge she was quite willing to kill the both of them to prevent such a horror.
"I'll walk through the fires of hell before I let you touch me."
Fury rippled over the pudgy features before the oily smile returned.
"Someday, my beauty, you'll be happy to be spread beneath me. We all have our breaking point. Eventually you'll reach yours."
"Not in this lifetime."
His tongue flicked out in an obscene motion. "So proud. So powerful.
I shall enjoy pouring my seed into you. But not yet. There is still money to be made from you. And money always comes first." Lifting his hand he revealed the heavy iron shackles that he had hid behind his body. "Will you put these on or do I need to call for the boys?"
Shay crossed her arms over her chest. She might only be half Shalott, but she possessed all the strength and agility of her ancestors. They were not the favorite assassins of the demon-world without cause.
"After all these years you still think those goons can hurt me?"
"Oh, I have no intention of having them hurt you. I should hate to have you damaged before the bidding." Very deliberately his gaze shifted to where Levet was cowering behind her legs. "I merely wish them to encourage your good behavior."
The gargoyle gave a low moan. "Shay?"
Shit.
She battled back the instinctive urge to punch the pointed teeth down his throat. It would only put her on the ground in agony. Worse, it would leave Levet at the mercy of the hulking mountain trolls Evor used as protection.
They would take great delight in torturing the poor gargoyle.
As far as she knew their only pleasure was giving pain to others.
Freaking trolls.
"Fine." She held out her arms with a furious scowl.
"A wise choice." Keeping a wary eye on her, Evor pressed the shackles over her wrists and locked them shut. "I knew you would understand the situation once it was properly explained."
Shay hissed as the iron bit into her skin. She could feel her power draining and her flesh chaffing beneath the iron. It was her one certain Achilles heel.
"All I understand is that someday I'm going to kill you."
He gave a jerk on the chain that draped between the shackles. "Behave yourself, bitch, or your little friend pays the consequences. Got it?"
Shay battled back the sickness that clutched at her stomach.
Once again she was going to be placed on the stage and sold off to the highest bidder. She would be utterly at the mercy of some stranger who could do whatever he pleased with her.
And there wasn't a damn thing she could do to stop it.
"Yeah, I got it. Let's just get this over with."
Evor opened his mouth to make a smart ass comment only to snap the fish lips shut when he caught sight of her expression. She was close enough to the edge that he was wary of pushing her over.
Which only proved that he wasn't quite as stupid as he looked.
In silence they left the cell and climbed the narrow stairs to the back of the stage. Evor paused only long enough to lock her shackles to a pole anchored in the floor before moving toward the closed curtains and slipping through them to face the crowd.
Alone in the darkness Shay sucked in a deep breath and tried to ignore the rumblings of the crowd just beyond the curtain.
Even without being able to see the potential bidders she could feel the presence of the gathering demons and humans. She could smell the stench of their sweat. Feel the smoldering impatience. Taste the depraved lust in the air.
She abruptly frowned. There was something else. Something that was subtly laced through it all.
A sense of decaying evil that sent a chill of horror over her skin.
It was vague. As if the being was not truly in the room in full form.
More like a looming, intangible presence. An echo of foulness that made her stomach clench in fear.
Swallowing back her instinctive scream she closed her eyes and forced herself to take a deep, steadying breath. In the distance she heard Evor loudly clear his throat to command attention.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen, demons and fairies, dead and undead…it is time for our main attraction. Our piece de resistance. An item so rare, so extraordinary that only those who possess a golden token may remain," he dramatically announced. "The rest may retire to our reception rooms where you will be offered your choice of refreshment."
Despite the lingering certainty she had just been brushed by some malignant gaze Shay managed a disgusted grimace. Evor was always a pompous blow-hard. Tonight, however, he put even the cheesiest ring-master to shame.
"Gather close, my friends," Evor commanded as the dregs of bidders were forced to leave the room. To be granted a golden ticket a person or demon had to carry at least $50,000 in cash on them. The slave trade rarely accepted checks or credit cards. Go figure. "You will not wish to miss your first glimpse of my precious treasure. Do not fear, I have ensured that she is properly chained. She will offer no danger. No danger beyond her perilous charm. She will not rip your heart from your chest, but I do not promise she will not steal it with her beauty."
"Shut your mouth and open the curtain," a voice growled.
"You are impatient?" Evor demanded, his tone edged with anger. He didn't like his well practiced act interrupted.
"I don't have all night. Get on with it."
"Ah, a premature…bidder, a pity. Let us hope for your sake that it is not an affliction that taints your performance in other areas," Evor sneered, pausing to allow the roar of coarse laughter to fade. "Now where was I? Oh yes. My prize. My most beloved slave. Demons and ghouls, allow me to introduce you to Lady Shay…the last Shalott to walk our world."
With a dramatic motion the curtain disappeared in a puff of smoke, leaving Shay exposed to the near two dozen men and demons.
Deliberately she lowered her gaze as she heard the gasps echo through the room. It was humiliating enough to smell their rabid hunger. She didn't need to see it written on their faces.
"Is this a trick?" a dark voice demanded in disbelief. Hardly surprising. As far as Shay knew she truly was the last Shalott remaining in the world.
"No trick, no illusion."
"As if I'd take your word for it, troll. I want proof."
"Proof? Very well." There was a moment pause as Evor searched the crowd. "You there, come forward," he commanded.
Shay tensed as she felt the cold chill that warned her it was a vampire approaching. Her blood was more precious than gold to the undead. An aphrodisiac that they would kill to procure.
With her attention focused on the tall, gaunt vampire Shay barely noticed when Evor grabbed her arm and used a knife to slice through the skin of her forearm. Hissing softly the vamp leaned downward to lick the welling blood. His entire body shivered as he lifted his head to regard her with stark hunger.
"There is human blood, but she is genuine Shalott," he rasped.
With a smooth motion Evor had placed his pudgy form between the vamp and Shay, shooing the predator away with a wave of his hand. Reluctantly the undead creature left the stage, no doubt sensing the impending riot if he gave into his impulse to sink his teeth into her and drain her dry.
Evor waited until the stage was cleared before moving to stand behind his podium. He grasped his gavel and lifted it over his head.
Ridiculous twit.
"Satisfied? Good." Evor smacked the gavel onto the podium. "The bidding starts at 50,000 dollars. Remember, gentlemen, cash only."
"55,000."
"60,000."
"61,000."
Shay's gaze once again dropped to her feet as the voices called out their bids. Soon enough she would be forced to confront her new master.
She didn't want to watch as they wrangled over her like a pack of dogs
slavering over a juicy bone.
"100,000 dollars." A shrill voice shouted from the back of the room.
A sly smile touched Evor's thin lips. "A most generous bid, my good sir. Anyone else? No? Going once…Going twice…"
"500,000."
A sharp silence filled the room. Without even realizing what she was doing Shay lifted her head to stare into the crowd jamming the auction floor.
There was something about that silky dark voice. Something…familiar.
"Step forward," Evor demanded, his eyes shimmering red. "Step forward and offer your name."
There was a stir as the crowd parted. From the back shadows a tall, elegant form glided forward.
A hushed whisper spread through the room as the muted light revealed the hauntingly beautiful face and satin curtain of silver hair that fell down his back.
It took only a glance to realize he was a vampire.
No human could so closely resemble an angel that had fallen from heaven.
And fallen recently. Or move with such liquid grace. Or cause the demons to back away in wary fear.
Shay's breath caught in her throat. Not at his stunning beauty, or powerful presence, or even the flamboyant velvet cloak that shrouded his slender form.
It was the fact that she knew this vampire.
He had been at her side when they had battled the coven of witches weeks ago. And more importantly, he had been at her side when she had saved his life.
And now he was here bidding on her like she was no more than a piece of property.
Damn his rotten soul to hell.

***

Review

OMG! I loved this story! Viper is such a sweetie pie at heart and Shay is just so bad ass but my favourite character of this story must be.....................LEVET! <3 He is just so awesome! I won't spoil the book for you but it will make you LOL, LMFAO, Gasp, Shout, Cry and Crave a man like Viper! 

For more of Alexandra Ivy's books then click here: http://www.alexandraivy.com/index.htm

To buy Embrace the Darkness then click here: Amazon US