The Princess is here
Monday, November 15, 2010
Monday Ten: Cartoons
1:26 PM | 
Posted by
Victoria
Being a child of the eighties and ninties, I feel like I had access to some of the best cartoons ever to be made. Animation these days isn't up to the same par. They go for simiplar designs, computer animated designs, and the quatlity is just...lacking. There are some exceptions, but only a few made my list.
10. X-Men: Evolution (2000-2003)
Cashing in on the success of the X-Men film franchise, the WB aired a show which cast the majority of the X-Men characters as high school students. Definitely not following the comics in many regards, it was still a fun series. I particularly enjoyed the Brotherhood getting more screentime as major players rather than just as villains. You cared about them like you cared about the X-Men. And while Evolution is the only place to EVER feature a romance between Shadowcat and Avalanche(who was completely revamped from his comic counterpart), it was adorable. But it didn't stop them from giving a nod to comic fans and allowing Kitty to flirt with Colossus later in the season. Sadly, this series only lasted four seasons, but they were able to wrap up their storyline and give a hint as to what could have happened if the series continued. Their introduction of X-23 led to a new comic book series being made about her, thus allowing the Evolution series to live on in some way shape or form. Season 1-3 were made available on DVD, season four is available through iTunes.
9. Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995)
Fox kids was the highlight of my saturday morning cartoon happiness. They had shows I would watch religously, and they really didn't disappoint when it came to superhero cartoons...well, scratch that, I was NOT a fan of The Tick, but that is not what I am here to discuss. haha. Batman was dark. It was one of those franchises that is so easy to follow: rich man who is a superhero at night. The villains were fun. The animation was beautiful. One day I will get around to buying the DVDs, but I just haven't had the extra money yet (I was buying X-Men DVDs instead. oops)
8. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983-1985)
While I much prefered She-Ra at the time, being a little girl, He-Man was MUCH too boyish for me most of the time and there just weren't enough girl characters to keep me interested for long, I still would watch it when waiting for my other shows to come on. Jem, Transformers, G.I. Joe, Thundercats...they are all very foggy and vague in my mind. He-Man and She-Ra stand out vividly, and I will always enjoy rewatching the both of them. Even if Orko annoys the snot out of me. Cringer/Battlecat is my hero. And I want one.
7. Wolverine and the X-Men (2008-2009)
I must admit, the moment I heard that there was a cartoon called WOLVERINE and the X-Men I bitched and bitched and bitched some more. Not only was the X-Men movie franchised focused WAY too much on the character rather than the ensemble itself, but now they are going to devote a whole cartoon to him? *sigh* Well, I was pleasantly surprised by it. The only issue I had with the animation was it was bright and too similar to the last handful of episodes The Animated Series dished out before being cancelled. I like the darker animation of the early cartoons. Call me a cartoon snob. But the storyline was actually really good and they had good reason for Wolverine to be "leading" at the moment. While one would expect Cyclops and Storm to be automatic leaders if the Professor disappeared, Jean's disappearance renders Cyclops useless, and Storm went off to deal with other things. (P.S. I HATED Storm's hair in this cartoon. It was like a giant oval behind her head. Srsly, animatiors!) Unfortunatley, despite ending on a HUGE cliffhanger, and I REALLY wanted to see how they tackled Apocalypse, the show was cancelled after only one season. I blame the fact that they aired on an obscure cable channel not everyone has or watches. Nicktoon Network? Really?
6. Pirates of Dark Water (1991-1992)
This was a very interesting cartoon that didn't get nearly enough attention. A young man discovers he's really a prince and sets out upon a quest. The dark water in the title was actually a "carniverous" form of water that would devour anything it comes across. It has been so long since I have seen this cartoon that the minor details are a bit hard to remember, and as it hasn't been released on DVD I cannot refresh those memories without seeking bootlegs of the cartoon. I really hope they release it on DVD eventually.
5. Aladdin (1994-1995)
Out of all the disney films they have tried making into successful cartoon shows, I think this might have been my favorite. While Tale Spin had an interesting concept, it lacked the originality of the Jungle Book setting. Aladdin was true to it's film roots and was a lot of fun. The Little Mermaid was a bit too..something. I don't know. I never enjoyed it as much as Aladdin. Perhaps it is because adventure seemed more adventurous with swords and magic carpets. And I had a serious crush on Aladdin.
4. Peter Pan and the Pirates (1990-1991)
Okay, Tim Curry voiced Captain Hook. Need I say more? Yes? Okay, well, this is one of those cartoons many people don't remember ever existed. But I loved it. I was always a fan of Peter Pan, and I liked having the chance to visit NeverLand every day after school TinkerBell was actually likable and not green with jealousy over Peter and Wendy the whole time. It was a lot of fun, and completely overlooked when it comes to cartoon awesomeness.
3. Chip and Dale: Rescue Rangers (1989-1992)
Already a big Chip and Dale fan (the chipmunks, people. The chipmunks!) A tv series based on them seemed like a great idea. Throw in two awesome mice and a housefly in a red sweater and you've got a good time. And who didn't think the love triangle between Chip/Gadget/and Dale was just to freaking adorable for words? (I always wanted her to get with Chip)
2. She-Ra: Princess of Power (1985-1987)
Girl Power never was so awesome. And I wish I had She-ra's skirt. She can do flips, cartwheels, kicks in midair, and it NEVER flashes her undies. I am truly jealous. haha. This was probably the first cartoon series I ever truly loved. I wanted to BE her. But I think my favorite character was Frosta, who I think was a queen of a frozen land on the planet of Etheria. There is an episode with her and He-Man that cracks me up everytime I watch it. She is ALL OVER him while She-ra and the other characters laugh, and He-Man blushes and makes excuses to get away. It's amazing!
1. X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)
I would argue that this is the best cartoon ever, or at least the best cartoon about superheros ever, but I will not bore you with such....
Whether it is Rogue and Gambit's love that cannot be acted on because Rogue cannot touch another person with her skin without possibly killing them, Cyclops and Jean's never being able to be married without some catastrophe destroying the day, Wolverine's love fro Jean Grey even though she loves Cyclops more, or...well, you get the picture. The animation was beautifula nd truly brought the comics to life. The look JUST like their comic counterparts. Other than the last few eps where the animation changes and the voice actors for some of the characters (Gambit) changes to the worse, I can't find too much wrong with it. Well, there is a season 3 episode that doesn't air until season 5, and it is confusing because it is part of the Phoenix storyline. But, who can deny the show was much awesome over a delayed episode :P
Cashing in on the success of the X-Men film franchise, the WB aired a show which cast the majority of the X-Men characters as high school students. Definitely not following the comics in many regards, it was still a fun series. I particularly enjoyed the Brotherhood getting more screentime as major players rather than just as villains. You cared about them like you cared about the X-Men. And while Evolution is the only place to EVER feature a romance between Shadowcat and Avalanche(who was completely revamped from his comic counterpart), it was adorable. But it didn't stop them from giving a nod to comic fans and allowing Kitty to flirt with Colossus later in the season. Sadly, this series only lasted four seasons, but they were able to wrap up their storyline and give a hint as to what could have happened if the series continued. Their introduction of X-23 led to a new comic book series being made about her, thus allowing the Evolution series to live on in some way shape or form. Season 1-3 were made available on DVD, season four is available through iTunes.
Fox kids was the highlight of my saturday morning cartoon happiness. They had shows I would watch religously, and they really didn't disappoint when it came to superhero cartoons...well, scratch that, I was NOT a fan of The Tick, but that is not what I am here to discuss. haha. Batman was dark. It was one of those franchises that is so easy to follow: rich man who is a superhero at night. The villains were fun. The animation was beautiful. One day I will get around to buying the DVDs, but I just haven't had the extra money yet (I was buying X-Men DVDs instead. oops)
While I much prefered She-Ra at the time, being a little girl, He-Man was MUCH too boyish for me most of the time and there just weren't enough girl characters to keep me interested for long, I still would watch it when waiting for my other shows to come on. Jem, Transformers, G.I. Joe, Thundercats...they are all very foggy and vague in my mind. He-Man and She-Ra stand out vividly, and I will always enjoy rewatching the both of them. Even if Orko annoys the snot out of me. Cringer/Battlecat is my hero. And I want one.
I must admit, the moment I heard that there was a cartoon called WOLVERINE and the X-Men I bitched and bitched and bitched some more. Not only was the X-Men movie franchised focused WAY too much on the character rather than the ensemble itself, but now they are going to devote a whole cartoon to him? *sigh* Well, I was pleasantly surprised by it. The only issue I had with the animation was it was bright and too similar to the last handful of episodes The Animated Series dished out before being cancelled. I like the darker animation of the early cartoons. Call me a cartoon snob. But the storyline was actually really good and they had good reason for Wolverine to be "leading" at the moment. While one would expect Cyclops and Storm to be automatic leaders if the Professor disappeared, Jean's disappearance renders Cyclops useless, and Storm went off to deal with other things. (P.S. I HATED Storm's hair in this cartoon. It was like a giant oval behind her head. Srsly, animatiors!) Unfortunatley, despite ending on a HUGE cliffhanger, and I REALLY wanted to see how they tackled Apocalypse, the show was cancelled after only one season. I blame the fact that they aired on an obscure cable channel not everyone has or watches. Nicktoon Network? Really?
This was a very interesting cartoon that didn't get nearly enough attention. A young man discovers he's really a prince and sets out upon a quest. The dark water in the title was actually a "carniverous" form of water that would devour anything it comes across. It has been so long since I have seen this cartoon that the minor details are a bit hard to remember, and as it hasn't been released on DVD I cannot refresh those memories without seeking bootlegs of the cartoon. I really hope they release it on DVD eventually.
Out of all the disney films they have tried making into successful cartoon shows, I think this might have been my favorite. While Tale Spin had an interesting concept, it lacked the originality of the Jungle Book setting. Aladdin was true to it's film roots and was a lot of fun. The Little Mermaid was a bit too..something. I don't know. I never enjoyed it as much as Aladdin. Perhaps it is because adventure seemed more adventurous with swords and magic carpets. And I had a serious crush on Aladdin.
Okay, Tim Curry voiced Captain Hook. Need I say more? Yes? Okay, well, this is one of those cartoons many people don't remember ever existed. But I loved it. I was always a fan of Peter Pan, and I liked having the chance to visit NeverLand every day after school TinkerBell was actually likable and not green with jealousy over Peter and Wendy the whole time. It was a lot of fun, and completely overlooked when it comes to cartoon awesomeness.
Already a big Chip and Dale fan (the chipmunks, people. The chipmunks!) A tv series based on them seemed like a great idea. Throw in two awesome mice and a housefly in a red sweater and you've got a good time. And who didn't think the love triangle between Chip/Gadget/and Dale was just to freaking adorable for words? (I always wanted her to get with Chip)
Girl Power never was so awesome. And I wish I had She-ra's skirt. She can do flips, cartwheels, kicks in midair, and it NEVER flashes her undies. I am truly jealous. haha. This was probably the first cartoon series I ever truly loved. I wanted to BE her. But I think my favorite character was Frosta, who I think was a queen of a frozen land on the planet of Etheria. There is an episode with her and He-Man that cracks me up everytime I watch it. She is ALL OVER him while She-ra and the other characters laugh, and He-Man blushes and makes excuses to get away. It's amazing!
I would argue that this is the best cartoon ever, or at least the best cartoon about superheros ever, but I will not bore you with such....
Whether it is Rogue and Gambit's love that cannot be acted on because Rogue cannot touch another person with her skin without possibly killing them, Cyclops and Jean's never being able to be married without some catastrophe destroying the day, Wolverine's love fro Jean Grey even though she loves Cyclops more, or...well, you get the picture. The animation was beautifula nd truly brought the comics to life. The look JUST like their comic counterparts. Other than the last few eps where the animation changes and the voice actors for some of the characters (Gambit) changes to the worse, I can't find too much wrong with it. Well, there is a season 3 episode that doesn't air until season 5, and it is confusing because it is part of the Phoenix storyline. But, who can deny the show was much awesome over a delayed episode :P
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Updated cover art
1:52 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Just updates my cover art page. I am particularly fond of this one:
Monday, November 8, 2010
Monday Ten: Book Series
7:16 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Those who know me know that I read A LOT. These are the book series that I have enjoyed the most (thus far)
10. The Sorority - Tamara Thorne
Number of books in series: 3
Reading Order: Eve, Merilynn, Samantha
Genre: Horror
One of my favorite horror authors, Tamara Thorne creates a story of murder and mystery involving the Green Man. It was different from many things I had read before, and I recommend her works to anyone who likes scary stories. :)
9. Children of the Sea - Virgina Kantra
Number of novels in series: 4 in print, more in the works. 2 novellas.
Reading order: novella in Shifter anthology, Sea Witch, Sea Fever, Sea Lord, novella in Burning Up anthology, Immortal Sea
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I must admit I picked this one up for the GORGEOUS cover art. But reading these books is almost like reading a modern fairy tale. The Children of the Sea are Selkies and Finfolk (shapeshifter that change into sea creatures). Different from the typical vampire or werewolf, and the stories draw you in; as do the characters.
8. Sookie Stackhouse Mysteries - Charlaine Harris
Number of books in series: 10 with more in progress, and a book of short stories.
Reading Order: Book of short stories take place at various points in the series. Novel order is: Dead Until Dark, Living Dead in Dallas, Club Dead, Dead to the World, Dead as a Doornail, Definitely Dead, All Together Dead, From Dead to Worse, Dead and Gone, Dead in the Family
Genre: mixed
You may recognize this as the books the True Blood series on HBO is based on. I recognize it as the books I read to drool over Eric Northman. Blond Viking Vampire. Need I say more?
7. Lords of the Underworld - Gena Showalter
Number of Books in series: 6 with more to come, one novella, two short stories.
Reading Order: 2 short stories in Into the Dark anthology, one is a prequel the other can be read at any time. The Darkest Night, The Darkest Kiss, The Darkest Pleasure, The Darkest Whisper, Heart of Darkness anthology, The Darkest Passion, The Darkest Lie
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I love a series with a foothold in mythology. This one is rooted in Greek myth, and the heroes (and a few heroines) are immortal warriors possessed with a demon lord once trapped in Pandora's box.
6. Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling
Number of Books: 7
Reading Order: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Genre: Children's/Young Adult
Such a fun series at time, seriously dark at others. What a ride it was reading Harry's story as the battle between Voldemort and himself drew closer and closer.
5. The Black Dagger Brotherhood - J. R. Ward
Number of Books: 8, more in progress. Insider's Guide.
Reading Order: Dark Lover, Lover Eternal, Lover Awakened, Lover Revealed, Lover Unbound, Lover Enshrined, Lover Avenged, Lover Mine
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy
Such an interesting take on vampires. Complete with a writing style of her own kind, Ward makes her series stand out from others in a number of ways. And she isn't afraid to cross boundaries to do it.
4. Outlander - Diana Gabaldon
Number of Books: 7, one more in progress, graphic novel, and companion.
Reading Order: Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, Voyager, Drums of Autumn, The Fiery Cross, A Breath of Snow and Ashes, An Echo in the Bone. Graphic novel, The Exile, can be read as a companion to Outlander, starting a little bit before, and ending a fraction of the way through the timeline of the original novel.
Genre: mixed
It is hard to classify this series. It has historical aspects, contemporary segments, time travel, paranormal, mystery, romance, and more. But what makes this series so huge (other than the page lengths of the novels themselves) is the love between Claire and Jamie Fraser. Oh, James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser, I love you! It is almost difficult to read another book after finishing these because you become so used to Gabaldon's attention to detail that others sometimes seem lacking.
3. The Dark-Hunter Series - Sherrilyn Kenyon
Books in Series: 19 with more coming soon, 5 novellas, Companion book, short stories, spinoff series, manga series.
Reading Order: can be found at http://www.dark-hunter.com/
Genre: Paranormal Romance, spinoff is YA
Acheron is one of those novels that stand apart from the rest of the romance genre. If those who criticize romance were to read this particular book, they might change their tone. However, do not rush out to read this book without reading the books that precede it. Half the fun of Acheron (er...part one isn't too fun) is piecing together the puzzle pieces collected from previous books. The characters in the series are incredibly fun. One of those series that I rush out to buy the new ones on release day, devour it that day, then pout because I have to wait for the next one.
2. The Forbidden Game - L. J. Smith
Books in Series: 3
Reading Order: The Hunter, The Chase, The Kill
Genre: Young Adult
This is the series that really made me love reading. The series that got me hooked on Norse mythology, and created my first obsession with a book character. Oh, Julian. I still love you!
Definitely the best of all Smith's trilogies and series. The Vampire Diaries gets all the attention, but The Forbidden Game earns your attention.
1. The Fever Series - Karen Marie Moning
Books in Series: 5
Reading Order: Darkfever, Bloodfever, Faefever, Dreamfever, Shadowfever (1/18/2011)
Genre: Urban Fantasy
When a fantastic romance author switches genres, it creates chaos among the readers. Will it be any good? Can she do that? Will we see the characters from her other series ever again? Yes, yes, and yes. She nailed it. MacKayla Lane has to be one of the best heroines of this day and age, even if she was slightly too stupid to live when the first book starts off. She earns our respect, and she earns our tears. When her story comes to an end in January, it will be bittersweet. We've been dying for the conculsion to this story, but when it is over it is over...at least there will be more books set in the Fever world, and a graphic novel. And you know there has to be reasons any series can knock Julian from the top of my list....V'lane. The single most sexiest blond in all of the written universe. I *heart* him.
Number of books in series: 3
Reading Order: Eve, Merilynn, Samantha
Genre: Horror
One of my favorite horror authors, Tamara Thorne creates a story of murder and mystery involving the Green Man. It was different from many things I had read before, and I recommend her works to anyone who likes scary stories. :)
Number of novels in series: 4 in print, more in the works. 2 novellas.
Reading order: novella in Shifter anthology, Sea Witch, Sea Fever, Sea Lord, novella in Burning Up anthology, Immortal Sea
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I must admit I picked this one up for the GORGEOUS cover art. But reading these books is almost like reading a modern fairy tale. The Children of the Sea are Selkies and Finfolk (shapeshifter that change into sea creatures). Different from the typical vampire or werewolf, and the stories draw you in; as do the characters.
Number of books in series: 10 with more in progress, and a book of short stories.
Reading Order: Book of short stories take place at various points in the series. Novel order is: Dead Until Dark, Living Dead in Dallas, Club Dead, Dead to the World, Dead as a Doornail, Definitely Dead, All Together Dead, From Dead to Worse, Dead and Gone, Dead in the Family
Genre: mixed
You may recognize this as the books the True Blood series on HBO is based on. I recognize it as the books I read to drool over Eric Northman. Blond Viking Vampire. Need I say more?
Number of Books in series: 6 with more to come, one novella, two short stories.
Reading Order: 2 short stories in Into the Dark anthology, one is a prequel the other can be read at any time. The Darkest Night, The Darkest Kiss, The Darkest Pleasure, The Darkest Whisper, Heart of Darkness anthology, The Darkest Passion, The Darkest Lie
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I love a series with a foothold in mythology. This one is rooted in Greek myth, and the heroes (and a few heroines) are immortal warriors possessed with a demon lord once trapped in Pandora's box.
Number of Books: 7
Reading Order: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Genre: Children's/Young Adult
Such a fun series at time, seriously dark at others. What a ride it was reading Harry's story as the battle between Voldemort and himself drew closer and closer.
Number of Books: 8, more in progress. Insider's Guide.
Reading Order: Dark Lover, Lover Eternal, Lover Awakened, Lover Revealed, Lover Unbound, Lover Enshrined, Lover Avenged, Lover Mine
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy
Such an interesting take on vampires. Complete with a writing style of her own kind, Ward makes her series stand out from others in a number of ways. And she isn't afraid to cross boundaries to do it.
Number of Books: 7, one more in progress, graphic novel, and companion.
Reading Order: Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, Voyager, Drums of Autumn, The Fiery Cross, A Breath of Snow and Ashes, An Echo in the Bone. Graphic novel, The Exile, can be read as a companion to Outlander, starting a little bit before, and ending a fraction of the way through the timeline of the original novel.
Genre: mixed
It is hard to classify this series. It has historical aspects, contemporary segments, time travel, paranormal, mystery, romance, and more. But what makes this series so huge (other than the page lengths of the novels themselves) is the love between Claire and Jamie Fraser. Oh, James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser, I love you! It is almost difficult to read another book after finishing these because you become so used to Gabaldon's attention to detail that others sometimes seem lacking.
Books in Series: 19 with more coming soon, 5 novellas, Companion book, short stories, spinoff series, manga series.
Reading Order: can be found at http://www.dark-hunter.com/
Genre: Paranormal Romance, spinoff is YA
Acheron is one of those novels that stand apart from the rest of the romance genre. If those who criticize romance were to read this particular book, they might change their tone. However, do not rush out to read this book without reading the books that precede it. Half the fun of Acheron (er...part one isn't too fun) is piecing together the puzzle pieces collected from previous books. The characters in the series are incredibly fun. One of those series that I rush out to buy the new ones on release day, devour it that day, then pout because I have to wait for the next one.
Books in Series: 3
Reading Order: The Hunter, The Chase, The Kill
Genre: Young Adult
This is the series that really made me love reading. The series that got me hooked on Norse mythology, and created my first obsession with a book character. Oh, Julian. I still love you!
Definitely the best of all Smith's trilogies and series. The Vampire Diaries gets all the attention, but The Forbidden Game earns your attention.
Books in Series: 5
Reading Order: Darkfever, Bloodfever, Faefever, Dreamfever, Shadowfever (1/18/2011)
Genre: Urban Fantasy
When a fantastic romance author switches genres, it creates chaos among the readers. Will it be any good? Can she do that? Will we see the characters from her other series ever again? Yes, yes, and yes. She nailed it. MacKayla Lane has to be one of the best heroines of this day and age, even if she was slightly too stupid to live when the first book starts off. She earns our respect, and she earns our tears. When her story comes to an end in January, it will be bittersweet. We've been dying for the conculsion to this story, but when it is over it is over...at least there will be more books set in the Fever world, and a graphic novel. And you know there has to be reasons any series can knock Julian from the top of my list....V'lane. The single most sexiest blond in all of the written universe. I *heart* him.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Monday Ten: Movies
7:31 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Going to try something a little bit different. On mondays I am going to go through a sorta top ten of favorites. I feel like I need to blog more often and this will give me something to look forward to blogging about, other than just to say I updated pages and what not. The first one will be my favorite movies. These aren't movies I feel are the best movies ever made, but are my favorites (to date, favorites tend to change since new things are always coming out to surprise us).
10. Fierce Creatures (1997)
Directors: Fred Schepisi, Robert Young
Cast: John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline
Why I love it: This was a movie I stumbled across accidently. While still living at home during my college years, I had the television set to HBO while procrastinating from my school work. I don't even remember what movie I was watching prior to this one, but I laughed through this entire movie, went out the following day and bought it on DVD. The animals are soooo cute. The concept was entertaining: to generate more funds, a new director at a zoo decides to focus on only fierce animals because predators are more "interesting" to the public. Of course, they have to do something with the non-fierce animals, and when John Cleese's character ends up with all the animals he supposedly put down, many fun escapades abound. Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline's character are 100% convinced he is having sexual encounters with all the women employees of the zoo through the entire film when he isn't.
9. Alice in Wonderland (1951)
Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Cast (Voices): Kathryn Beaumont, Sterling Holloway, Ed Wynn
Why I love it: Does the picture to the left not answer this question? I am biased because I collect Cheshire Cats and adore Alice in Wonderland. But there is a good reason this adaptation beats out the many others, including the Tim Burton 2010 film which I looooooved. I grew up with this movie, I know it practically by heart. Out of the many Disney films I love, this one is my favorite; more so than any of the princess films or even some of their live action movies I watched as a kid (The Three Lives of Thomasina and Charlie the Lonesome Cougar come to mind). It's a fun movie. It's so weird and crazy, but who doesn't wish to visit a Wonderland every once and a while to escape reality?
8. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
Director: Gore Verbinski
Cast: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, and Kiera Knightly
Why I love it: Pirates! Romance! Period costumes! Yeah, you will notice a trend of my favorite films. Most of them are period films. I can't help it, but I love period films. All the Pirates of the Caribbean films were fun and action packed, but the first one will always be the best. Meeting Captain Jack Sparrow for the first time was a real treat. I still say Depp was robbed of his Oscar. Maybe he can land yet another nomination with the fourth film in the franchise coming up soon. (Can I just say how happy I am Will and Elizabeth will not be returning for the next film. Feeding my man to the friggin kraken in the second film did NOT endear me to Elizabeth. And Will, well, as much as I do love Orlando Bloom, Will was a little too "good." Or maybe I just prefer dirty, sneaky pirates like Jack Sparrow... ;)
7. Pathfinder (2007)
Director: Marcus Nispel
Cast: Karl Urban, Moon Bloodgood, Clancy Brown
Why I love it: What could Karl Urban do after playing a hot Viking from Middle Earth (who was BLOND!!!) to make me love him more? The answer is simple: play another hot Viking, wear a loin cloth with leather chaps, and run around in furs and sweaty sexiness and wave his sword around. Okay, I am a single woman with raging hormones... I am allowed to lust. Plus, he was a Viking. It is a weakness of mind. The story itself is dark. Vikings come to North America, destroy everything in their path, and a young boy is left behind after being beaten severely for not participating. The Native Americans raise him as his own and he has to protect (and avenge some of them) when the Vikings return. It is hard to watch several scenes, but the cinematography and the stunning beauty of the film itself is amazing. While I have issues with the horned helms, I will give them the benefit of making the Vikings (who are the bad guys in this film, unfortunately) look like demons.
6. Rear Window (1954)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Cast: James Stewart, Grace Kelly
Why I love it: Suspense, drama, a damn good story telling. Anyone who can make watching neighbors out their apartment window interesting is a genius, and Hitchcock is worthy of such a title. James Stewart believes he is the sole witness to a murder and tries to prove it, even though he is stuck in a wheelchair because of an accident. Grace Kelly is the love interest and she is beautiful as ever (damn her). The simplicity of the plot itself makes it work. Current movies have so many plot lines going on that it is hard to keep up with what the main plot really is. Such a direct plot is refreshing to go back to once and a while.
5. Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008)
Director: Darren Lynn Bousman
Cast: Alexa Vega, Anthony Head, Terrance Zdunich, Sarah Brightman
Why I love it: I see this movie as the Rocky Horror Picture Show of the new generation. I hear there are people dressing up in character and acting the film out and singing with it with live audiences. The concept: in the future, a biotech company, GeneCo, supplies organs for transplants when organ failure is at an uncommon high. Afterwards, people become "addicted to the knife" and have several surgeries as fashion statements. Because the organs being transpanted are available through financing, a repoman can come and take the organs back (thus killing people gruesomely) if you don't pay. Despite the fact Paris Hilton is in the movie, it is amazingly good. Plus, Paris' face falls off...it makes it more bearable. ;)
4. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Directors: Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones
Cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Jones
Why I love it: Because it is made of much awesome. So much awesome, mind you, that I quote it constantly without realizing it. Lancelot's murderous rampage to the severity of the French taunting, to Galahad's...ahem...great peril at the Castle Anthrax to the Bridge of Death, if I ever want to just spend a few hours laughing, I watch this movie. It is satire and silliness at its best.
3. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
Director: Neil Jordan
Cast: Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Antonio Banderas
Why I love it: Well, when reading the book Brad's Louis looks more like Armand in my mind and vice versa, but I will not argue too strongly as Armand in the books bores me to tears, and I would hate to only have Brad to look at in one part of the film. However, the thing that truly makes this movie work for me is Tom Cruise as Lestat. I love Lestat in the books. Love him. Interview is told from Louis' POV, which makes Lestat come off in a really bad light. Despite all this, as much as I am not a Tom Cruise fan, no one else will ever be able to capture this character the way he has. He has truly immortalized the role as his. I do like Stewart Townsend, but Queen of the Damned pained me. He was a hot vampire, but he was no Lestat. This film is beautiful, tragic, and horrifying.
2. Pride & Prejudice (2005)
Director: Joe Wright
Cast: Kiera Knightly, Matthew MacFadyen
Why I love it: One of the ultimate love stories ever told, the beauty of the film and the characters make you fall in love with it. Please, marry me Mr. Darcy! I want one! Other than Donald Sutherland's lack of accent, I can't find a single thing about this movie I can complain about. Maybe it is because I am a sappy girl, but I just adore this film. I never read any Jane Austin in school, which is surprising being an English Literature major, but after seeing the movie I had to buy the book. I didn't read it until recently, and I really enjoyed it.
1. The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Director: Joel Schumacher
Cast: Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, Patrick Wilson
Why I love it: It's one of my favorite stories. The Leroux novel, the play, the retelling by Susan Kay... I have always told people that a book or movie never really moves me unless it can make me cry. It is easier to cry to a film than it is to a book. The character of Erik (the Phantom) has always broken my heart. He's seen as an antagonist in most versions of the story, this one included. Susan Kay makes him the protagonist, and any time you view his situation from his side, it is hard not to wish Christine would have kicked Raoul to the curb and frolicked down to the Phantom's lair beneath the Paris Opera House. But the story is a tragedy, and you can't have tragedy if it ends the way you want. The thing that I do have to mention about this adaptation is they make Raoul less of a wuss in this one. He jumps onto a horse and rides bareback to the cemetery to tango with the Phantom. It's a far cry from Raoul of the Leroux novel cowering in the torture chamber wanting to blow his brains out rather than keep fighting to get to Christine. But...he still doesn't believe Christine when she begs him to take her away after the Il Muto production and look what happens because of it. Men, they never listen! :P
That's it, folks. But if you were wondering which films were sadly just short of making the cut, they include (in no particular order): Shaun of the Dead, Bridget Jones' Diary, Sleepy Hollow, Halloween (1978), and The Amityville Horror (1979)
10. Fierce Creatures (1997)
Directors: Fred Schepisi, Robert Young
Why I love it: This was a movie I stumbled across accidently. While still living at home during my college years, I had the television set to HBO while procrastinating from my school work. I don't even remember what movie I was watching prior to this one, but I laughed through this entire movie, went out the following day and bought it on DVD. The animals are soooo cute. The concept was entertaining: to generate more funds, a new director at a zoo decides to focus on only fierce animals because predators are more "interesting" to the public. Of course, they have to do something with the non-fierce animals, and when John Cleese's character ends up with all the animals he supposedly put down, many fun escapades abound. Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline's character are 100% convinced he is having sexual encounters with all the women employees of the zoo through the entire film when he isn't.
Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Cast (Voices): Kathryn Beaumont, Sterling Holloway, Ed Wynn
Why I love it: Does the picture to the left not answer this question? I am biased because I collect Cheshire Cats and adore Alice in Wonderland. But there is a good reason this adaptation beats out the many others, including the Tim Burton 2010 film which I looooooved. I grew up with this movie, I know it practically by heart. Out of the many Disney films I love, this one is my favorite; more so than any of the princess films or even some of their live action movies I watched as a kid (The Three Lives of Thomasina and Charlie the Lonesome Cougar come to mind). It's a fun movie. It's so weird and crazy, but who doesn't wish to visit a Wonderland every once and a while to escape reality?
8. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
Director: Gore Verbinski
Why I love it: Pirates! Romance! Period costumes! Yeah, you will notice a trend of my favorite films. Most of them are period films. I can't help it, but I love period films. All the Pirates of the Caribbean films were fun and action packed, but the first one will always be the best. Meeting Captain Jack Sparrow for the first time was a real treat. I still say Depp was robbed of his Oscar. Maybe he can land yet another nomination with the fourth film in the franchise coming up soon. (Can I just say how happy I am Will and Elizabeth will not be returning for the next film. Feeding my man to the friggin kraken in the second film did NOT endear me to Elizabeth. And Will, well, as much as I do love Orlando Bloom, Will was a little too "good." Or maybe I just prefer dirty, sneaky pirates like Jack Sparrow... ;)
Director: Marcus Nispel
Cast: Karl Urban, Moon Bloodgood, Clancy Brown
Why I love it: What could Karl Urban do after playing a hot Viking from Middle Earth (who was BLOND!!!) to make me love him more? The answer is simple: play another hot Viking, wear a loin cloth with leather chaps, and run around in furs and sweaty sexiness and wave his sword around. Okay, I am a single woman with raging hormones... I am allowed to lust. Plus, he was a Viking. It is a weakness of mind. The story itself is dark. Vikings come to North America, destroy everything in their path, and a young boy is left behind after being beaten severely for not participating. The Native Americans raise him as his own and he has to protect (and avenge some of them) when the Vikings return. It is hard to watch several scenes, but the cinematography and the stunning beauty of the film itself is amazing. While I have issues with the horned helms, I will give them the benefit of making the Vikings (who are the bad guys in this film, unfortunately) look like demons.
6. Rear Window (1954)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Why I love it: Suspense, drama, a damn good story telling. Anyone who can make watching neighbors out their apartment window interesting is a genius, and Hitchcock is worthy of such a title. James Stewart believes he is the sole witness to a murder and tries to prove it, even though he is stuck in a wheelchair because of an accident. Grace Kelly is the love interest and she is beautiful as ever (damn her). The simplicity of the plot itself makes it work. Current movies have so many plot lines going on that it is hard to keep up with what the main plot really is. Such a direct plot is refreshing to go back to once and a while.
Director: Darren Lynn Bousman
Cast: Alexa Vega, Anthony Head, Terrance Zdunich, Sarah Brightman
Why I love it: I see this movie as the Rocky Horror Picture Show of the new generation. I hear there are people dressing up in character and acting the film out and singing with it with live audiences. The concept: in the future, a biotech company, GeneCo, supplies organs for transplants when organ failure is at an uncommon high. Afterwards, people become "addicted to the knife" and have several surgeries as fashion statements. Because the organs being transpanted are available through financing, a repoman can come and take the organs back (thus killing people gruesomely) if you don't pay. Despite the fact Paris Hilton is in the movie, it is amazingly good. Plus, Paris' face falls off...it makes it more bearable. ;)
4. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Jones
Why I love it: Because it is made of much awesome. So much awesome, mind you, that I quote it constantly without realizing it. Lancelot's murderous rampage to the severity of the French taunting, to Galahad's...ahem...great peril at the Castle Anthrax to the Bridge of Death, if I ever want to just spend a few hours laughing, I watch this movie. It is satire and silliness at its best.
Director: Neil Jordan
Cast: Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Antonio Banderas
Why I love it: Well, when reading the book Brad's Louis looks more like Armand in my mind and vice versa, but I will not argue too strongly as Armand in the books bores me to tears, and I would hate to only have Brad to look at in one part of the film. However, the thing that truly makes this movie work for me is Tom Cruise as Lestat. I love Lestat in the books. Love him. Interview is told from Louis' POV, which makes Lestat come off in a really bad light. Despite all this, as much as I am not a Tom Cruise fan, no one else will ever be able to capture this character the way he has. He has truly immortalized the role as his. I do like Stewart Townsend, but Queen of the Damned pained me. He was a hot vampire, but he was no Lestat. This film is beautiful, tragic, and horrifying.
Director: Joe Wright
Cast: Kiera Knightly, Matthew MacFadyen
Why I love it: One of the ultimate love stories ever told, the beauty of the film and the characters make you fall in love with it. Please, marry me Mr. Darcy! I want one! Other than Donald Sutherland's lack of accent, I can't find a single thing about this movie I can complain about. Maybe it is because I am a sappy girl, but I just adore this film. I never read any Jane Austin in school, which is surprising being an English Literature major, but after seeing the movie I had to buy the book. I didn't read it until recently, and I really enjoyed it.
Director: Joel Schumacher
Cast: Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, Patrick Wilson
Why I love it: It's one of my favorite stories. The Leroux novel, the play, the retelling by Susan Kay... I have always told people that a book or movie never really moves me unless it can make me cry. It is easier to cry to a film than it is to a book. The character of Erik (the Phantom) has always broken my heart. He's seen as an antagonist in most versions of the story, this one included. Susan Kay makes him the protagonist, and any time you view his situation from his side, it is hard not to wish Christine would have kicked Raoul to the curb and frolicked down to the Phantom's lair beneath the Paris Opera House. But the story is a tragedy, and you can't have tragedy if it ends the way you want. The thing that I do have to mention about this adaptation is they make Raoul less of a wuss in this one. He jumps onto a horse and rides bareback to the cemetery to tango with the Phantom. It's a far cry from Raoul of the Leroux novel cowering in the torture chamber wanting to blow his brains out rather than keep fighting to get to Christine. But...he still doesn't believe Christine when she begs him to take her away after the Il Muto production and look what happens because of it. Men, they never listen! :P
That's it, folks. But if you were wondering which films were sadly just short of making the cut, they include (in no particular order): Shaun of the Dead, Bridget Jones' Diary, Sleepy Hollow, Halloween (1978), and The Amityville Horror (1979)
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween
10:11 AM |
Posted by
Victoria
Attaching a pic of my shoes taken at FeverCon for those who haven't seen them. I *heart* them, but then they are Chesh shoes, so I need them. LOL
Until next time...
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Pumpkin Kitty
10:05 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
This is Bagheera's first Halloween, and she is soooo intrigued by the pumpkin. She has to keep smelling it. She has to lick it. She has to bat it with her paw to make sure it isn't gonna try to go anywhere. When I put it on the table to carve it, she was ten shades of WTF?! LOL After I got the top of the pumpkin cut out I let her go ahead and smell it before I got to messy with pumpkin guts to get her off the table (she did keep trying to get in the middle of it anyway) She didn't want anything to do with the squishy insides to it, but she had to make sure whatever it was inside that thing was not going to do anything funny in her home. haha.Not much is going on. Editing. Covers. Siggies on the forum...the same ole routine. Trying to save up money to go to New Orleans in January for the Shadowfever launch. Usually I can bear not going to book event if they aren't reasonably local, but these are my peeps. I would hate to miss this. (plus any party that has V'lane as one of the topics needs me there. I have to keep all these hussies off my Fae.)
Added a few covers to cover art page. Added buy links to current releases. Still need to update author blogs and websites, but let's face it. I'm lazy. I will happen, but I can't tell you when it will happen. LOL!
And to stay on topic with the blog title, check out the cuteness Dacia posted on my facebook profile today:
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Addicted to a book series: new and old
1:09 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Still having a hard time adjusting to life post-FeverCon. I can't remember the last time I have had so much fun...probably at the other KMM events and Scotland with other Maniacs. Coming home to Savannah just makes it all so dull here.
However, we did get a crap load of free books at FeverCon. I read Blood Trinity first. It is a new urban fantasy series by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love, taking place in Atlanta, GA I loved it! They did such a great job. The men were sexy, Feenix was adorbale, and I can't wait for the next book. I was thumbing through my Dead After Dark anthology which has stories from Sherrilyn Kenyon, JR Ward, Susan Squires, and Dianna Love. The Dianna Love novella is a prequel into Blood Trinity! I didn't know that, but I am about to be devouring it next. :)
I have also started reading the Malory series by Johanna Lindsey. Now, those who know me welll know Johanna Lindsey's Hearts Aflame was my first romance novel. I picked it up because it had Vikings. True, the hero was a Saxon and not a Viking like the heroine, but I still enjoyed the hell out of that book. I've only read a few of her other stories and those hadn't moved me the way Hearts Aflame had. Now...I was wandering through the bookstores a few months ago and saw the cover for the latest Malory novel and almost bought it for the hot cover alone. I decided a trip to the library was in order to check out these Malory books since it seemed to be a series. They didn't have the first one, so I checked out Anthony's book. Enjoyed it (even though it was one of the many "characters spend half the novel pissed off at each other" scenerio that JL books seem to frequent). I registered online with my libnrary chain and had them get book one and three for me to read. book one was good, but shared too much of the same design as book two (re: characters spending half the book mad over a misunderstanding or stubborness). Book three was down right enjoyable. I just finished book four, The Magic of You, and though the hero, Warren, is the epitome of stubborn (re: spends 9/10 the novel in denial and pissed off at heroine for it) I absolutely loved this book. It might be because the heroine took an approach that would have come off as stark-raving CRAZY should someone really take that approach, and made it work.
I don't wanna give too much away, but the short version:
Hero: I was scorned, all women are liars and horrible, and I will never EVER get married. EVER!
Heroine: I want you. Will have you. Will marry you. Will make you love me by practically stalking you.
Hero: Nooooooooo! (*smooches anyway*)
yes. I loved it. And because I haven't taunted Jenn enough today, I think it should be rewritten with the names Jenn and Eric for kicks. :)
However, we did get a crap load of free books at FeverCon. I read Blood Trinity first. It is a new urban fantasy series by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love, taking place in Atlanta, GA I loved it! They did such a great job. The men were sexy, Feenix was adorbale, and I can't wait for the next book. I was thumbing through my Dead After Dark anthology which has stories from Sherrilyn Kenyon, JR Ward, Susan Squires, and Dianna Love. The Dianna Love novella is a prequel into Blood Trinity! I didn't know that, but I am about to be devouring it next. :)
I don't wanna give too much away, but the short version:
Hero: I was scorned, all women are liars and horrible, and I will never EVER get married. EVER!
Heroine: I want you. Will have you. Will marry you. Will make you love me by practically stalking you.
Hero: Nooooooooo! (*smooches anyway*)
yes. I loved it. And because I haven't taunted Jenn enough today, I think it should be rewritten with the names Jenn and Eric for kicks. :)
Monday, October 4, 2010
FeverCon 2010
7:25 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
OMG peeps. I am glad to be home, but I didn't want to leave. Aside from the mishaps (which I will get to as we go along) I had a fantastic weekend. I hope there are future FeverCons and everyone who went had as much fun as I did. I am going to put as much info into this blog as possible so I don't have to repeat myself too many times elsewhere. LOL!
I left Savannah at around six in the morning on Thursday morning. I arrived in Atlanta just before ten. Krissy was letting me park at her house to avoid the hotel charge. She wasn't home from dropping her husband off at work, and I got out the car to see if I had gotten close enough to the curb. As I come back to the driver side door, since the house was on a steep hill, the door slams shut and locks automatically. The car is still running. I wanted to cry. Krissy and I had to call Pop-a-Lock and get my car open. What a way to start the weekend.
We get to the hotel (finally) and the struggle becomes getting the cakes for Jenn to the kitchens before Jenn's plane gets to Atlanta. Krissy, Jean, Debbie, and I schemed and came up with the perfect birthday gift for Jenn: a specialized cake with the gag book cover I made for her as a joke on the KMM forum. It came out looking awesome. However, Kat takes matters into her own hands and decides that Eric should know about a certain post she makes regarding her wish for Eric to feed her birthday cake by hand at Fevercon. She prints it out and gives it to him during the signing on Friday (attendees with last names A-L). Jenn had won a raffle to sit at Eric Etebari's table during dinner Friday evening. He introduces himself to everyone at the table to feel out which one of his dinner mates was the birthday girl. I had Anita (who also one the raffle) to hand Jenn a 3.5 inch Jawbreaker (It is REALLY LARGE!) during the meal, and Krissy handed her a glossy 8x10 of the book cover. After dinner Eric surprised us all when he fed her cake and Jenn thinks we have gotten her torture out of the way. (but not by a long shot).
After the concert (which was amazing) we pulled the cakes out at the back of the room we were using. Set them up, but realized we couldn't find the serving knives. While running around looking for a knife, most of the people left to go to the Irish Pub down the block for "Mac Attacks" or "Barrons Beasts" (why were there no V'lane on Morars? *crosses arms*) We tried to get the word out as much as possible, but with a crowd that big it was near impossible. When we got Jenn to the cakes, we sang happy birthday. Eric heard the singing, ran over to where we were standing and laughed at the cake and gave Jenn a birthday spanking (he was shirtless before he was done) with Su's crop. Then we all took off our shoes, and convinced him to take his off. Therefore, we had the classic definition of an orgy with Eric Etebari: more than 4 people in one room without shoes.
Despite the awesome, we never thought Eric was going to be involved. It ended up being the best birthday present we could give Jenn. Thank you Eric for being so awesome! (Click on the pic of Shirtless Eric and Jenn above this and see an animation of the spanking.)
On Saturday we had hour long "lectures" with Phil, Eric, Karen's editor, and Gena and Kresley. Then it was time for the ball. I forgot to pack my Venus razor, but was prepared and had a cheap plastic razor packed in case I forgot ( I had to shave before the drive thursday so it wasn't packed yet) I am so used to how the blade part of my Venus moves with the curves of your leg, that when I was shaving super fast-like to get in and out of the shower to straighten my hair, I took a chunk of skin off my leg right below the right knee. It would not stop bleeding. I bled through 3 bandaids. Luckily my dress covered that up. My costume was me going as myself (AKA V'lane's Concubine). I had a cuff of cruce, and cute freaking shoes, but I had to take them off an hour into it. Therefore, I chickened out of the costume contest, because without the shoes it wasn't worth the embarressment of entering. lol! We won't talk about how I ended up "Tubthumping" with Eric Etebari when I hate the song more than I can describe. Or the fact that I was freaking WASTED.
Sunday we had breakfast with Phil Gigante (because Jordy ROCKS and Phil spoils her shamelessly. He's such a great man.) Eric Etebari took the mic and thanked me for contacting him on Facebook to make him aware of his Moning Maniac following (I suffered the embarressment of all eyes on me yet again, but I am glad he is enjoying the Maniacs and Karen.). Afterwards was the Q&A with Karen. Phil read a section of Shadowfever, and I am not sure how much they want us to talk about that, but it was a long scene featuring the newsletter where Mac is seeing the Seelie and V'lane coming towards her and her monster army. V'lane, Mac, and Darroc were in the scene. V'lane smitted someone. I almost hopped out my chair in V'lane lust. Jill and I were all excited. LOL!
At the signing, Karen signed HE'S MINE! on my V'lane poster (like that will keep me away from the sexiness that is V'lane. pffft) I was loaded down like a mule with signed books, posters, tarot cards, pictures, dvds, and audiobooks. Phil was hadning out pink and white rubber bracelets that say "Girls Gone Pri-ya! Atlanta 2010" LOL! I am finally home, with lots of loot. And in a few hours I am totally going to pass out. I missed Bagheera and my bed, but I am sad the weekend had to end. I love all of you ladies, and I hope to be able to attend many more events and see you all again in the future!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Updates/Coming Soon
2:46 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
I've updated the Cover Art pages with buy links, and I added the newest books I've completed edits on to the Editing page. I also added a few blogs and websites, I wanted to add more, but I am about to have to leave for work so more will be added at a later time.I turn 26 this Sunday. AHHHHHHH! I swear I was only 18 a couple years ago. Where did the time go?!
The day after my birthday, Liquid Silver is releasing two of the books I edited. I am sure they didn't do it on purpose, but hey, I thought it was a great present (everyone go buy them!).
The second is a longer story, the longest I've edited from LSB. It is called Blood Bonds by Adrienne C. Wilder. It's urban fantasy, featuring dragons and taking place in Georgia. A word of caution, there are a few pretty gorey scenes, so if blood makes you squimish you need to be forewarned ahead of time. Otherwise, it was a very interesting concept. Different from a lot of paranormal/urban fantasy I've seen.
Again, both books come out Monday, September 20, at Liquid Silver Books. Happy reading!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Bagheera
7:08 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
I don't remember if I ever posted about my new kitty. My sis and her boyfriend bought her for me as an early birthday gift. She's going on five months of age this month, and she's adorable. I named her after the panther in The Jungle Book.
Today she has been acting crazy because this caterpillar is on the window and she can't get it. LOL completely crazy! I have a video of her playing the other night and just going nuts attached after the pics.
Today she has been acting crazy because this caterpillar is on the window and she can't get it. LOL completely crazy! I have a video of her playing the other night and just going nuts attached after the pics.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Meeting Sherrilyn Kenyon / Book Resolutions
2:01 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
I didn't get a chance to blog yesterday, but I finally met Sherrilyn Kenyon. I got my copies of No Mercy, Infinity, and the two graphic Lords of Avalon novels signed. I confessed to being the infamous editor of the "Carnival of Rust" fan video, and had a great time!
No Mercy was a great book! I may be bias because Dev has been my favorite Were since the series began, but I really enjoyed the story. I didn't get annoyed with the heroine, which is rare, and I think it is the DH novel I enjoyed the most since Acheron came out.
Now, last week I finished reading Black Hills by Nora Roberts. This is the first NR book I've ever read, it was decent for a contempary. We all know I am not a fan of the contemp. genre. The reason I read it was because the heroine, Lil, was working in a career field I originally wanted. I would have if it wasn't for my near fail in Molecular Bio and having to drop Botany because I just couldn't tell a slide from a fern cell from a slide of an algae cell. I wanted to work with the big cats among others, but mostly the cats. Lil had lions, tigers, cougars, jags, leopards, bobcats, lynxes....yeah. I was in career lust with that book. It was actually quite good, but...
What happened to a good resolution? You go through all 400+ pages of rising action, get to the climax, and have a really unsatisfying resolution. I wanted to know a little bit more about all the major points in the story. It just kinda ended a few pages after the climax. Oh well, we can't always get what we want, can we?
No Mercy was a great book! I may be bias because Dev has been my favorite Were since the series began, but I really enjoyed the story. I didn't get annoyed with the heroine, which is rare, and I think it is the DH novel I enjoyed the most since Acheron came out.
Now, last week I finished reading Black Hills by Nora Roberts. This is the first NR book I've ever read, it was decent for a contempary. We all know I am not a fan of the contemp. genre. The reason I read it was because the heroine, Lil, was working in a career field I originally wanted. I would have if it wasn't for my near fail in Molecular Bio and having to drop Botany because I just couldn't tell a slide from a fern cell from a slide of an algae cell. I wanted to work with the big cats among others, but mostly the cats. Lil had lions, tigers, cougars, jags, leopards, bobcats, lynxes....yeah. I was in career lust with that book. It was actually quite good, but...
What happened to a good resolution? You go through all 400+ pages of rising action, get to the climax, and have a really unsatisfying resolution. I wanted to know a little bit more about all the major points in the story. It just kinda ended a few pages after the climax. Oh well, we can't always get what we want, can we?
Monday, September 6, 2010
Book Signings and more
10:04 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
So on Wednesday Sherrilyn Kenyon will be signing in Savannah. Finally get to go to one of her signings myself rather than have a friend get a book signed for me. I am excited! I am told I have to tell her I edited the "Carnival of Rust" Dark-Hunter video, though I might be a bit embarressed. Fan tributes are fun to make, but I still feel nerdy when I fess up to having made them. LOL!
I added 4 new covers to my art page. Please remember I only did the covers on the cover art page, the LSB covers were not made by me. I only edited the book. But they do have some Gorgeous art work, do they not? I am going to be updating buy links on that page and adding buy links to the BP books sometime this month. I keep forgetting (sorry!)
FeverCon is only a few weeks away. I just bought some KILLER hot pink peeptoe heels for the Pink and Black Mac Ball. I can't wait to go hang out with my peeps from the KMM forum again. It's been too long!
I added 4 new covers to my art page. Please remember I only did the covers on the cover art page, the LSB covers were not made by me. I only edited the book. But they do have some Gorgeous art work, do they not? I am going to be updating buy links on that page and adding buy links to the BP books sometime this month. I keep forgetting (sorry!)
FeverCon is only a few weeks away. I just bought some KILLER hot pink peeptoe heels for the Pink and Black Mac Ball. I can't wait to go hang out with my peeps from the KMM forum again. It's been too long!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
New Layout
10:27 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
As you can see, the blog has been spruced up a bit. Thanks Hailey!!!!!!!! Yes, Hailey Edwards, author extraordinaire, has graciouslly hacked into my blog and made it pretty. These are the reasons I love my friends. They make my blog pretty when I get too lazy to do it myself. LOLOLOL.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
10:54 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Awesome vs Non-Awesome. I guess there has to be a balance.
3:58 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Because being so awesome without non-awesome to keep one grounded can lead to an egoboost perhaps. And I know, I KNOW, I come across concieted online. It's all in good fun though. I am probably the most modest person you could meet if you met me in real life. But since online I can brag about myself without feeling guilty, I will do it anyway and you can't stop me! Well...you can try, but I will probably just ignore your post...because I can. I love the internet. Don't like something, you can remove it forever!
Anywho, guess who is the new Art Director at Breathless Press? Yep, that would be Her Most Awesometastic. AKA...Me. THANK YOU BP, I never thought I would even be considered for such a role. But I love books and I love photoshop, so I guess this is the best of both worlds.
I have a few more covers to add to both the cover art page and the books I've edited page, but I am feeling a bit lazy since, and here is where the non-awesome from the blog title comes into play, I am moving this week. Into my grandparents' house. Trying (keyword there: trying) to get their stuff moved so my stuff can come in. But when I say they haven't cleaned the cabinets or windows, or throw anything away, since they moved in here in the 70s....I am not exaggerating. It is a nightmare. NIGHTMARE! Especially the size of the spiders in this house. And what is the number one thing that makes me afeared? Yup. Spiders. I loath them. They make me want to pee my pants and cry like a little girl, but I have too much dignity to let that happen. Instead I just scream like a bitch and flatten it with more force than necessary.
So I am going to go hang out in the house of horrors, cleaning, squishing demons...er...spiders, and will get those covers loaded by next week. Chao!
Anywho, guess who is the new Art Director at Breathless Press? Yep, that would be Her Most Awesometastic. AKA...Me. THANK YOU BP, I never thought I would even be considered for such a role. But I love books and I love photoshop, so I guess this is the best of both worlds.
I have a few more covers to add to both the cover art page and the books I've edited page, but I am feeling a bit lazy since, and here is where the non-awesome from the blog title comes into play, I am moving this week. Into my grandparents' house. Trying (keyword there: trying) to get their stuff moved so my stuff can come in. But when I say they haven't cleaned the cabinets or windows, or throw anything away, since they moved in here in the 70s....I am not exaggerating. It is a nightmare. NIGHTMARE! Especially the size of the spiders in this house. And what is the number one thing that makes me afeared? Yup. Spiders. I loath them. They make me want to pee my pants and cry like a little girl, but I have too much dignity to let that happen. Instead I just scream like a bitch and flatten it with more force than necessary.
So I am going to go hang out in the house of horrors, cleaning, squishing demons...er...spiders, and will get those covers loaded by next week. Chao!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Strapless in RT magazine!
10:16 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The Forbidden Game: You Never Forget Your First Fictional Love.
10:23 AM |
Posted by
Victoria
Those not familiar with The Forbidden Game, it is about a girl named Jenny who is throwing a birthday party for her boyfriend. They end up playing a game that causes their worst nightmares to come to life. The Shadowman, Julian, is making them play for their freedom. If they lose, Jenny is his forever.
And Julian is super sexy. He's the first fictional character I've developed a crush on, and this is the first book series that ever made me cry while reading. My love of books can be traced back to this series. Sure I read R.L. Stine like it was candy, but my true love from reading developed through a Shadowman's love for something he could never have.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Updated Blog
3:12 PM |
Posted by
Victoria
Should I keep the Amazon list to only books I edited or did cover art for, or should it include titles I review or recommend on this blog as well? Let me know your opinions.
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