BLOG TOUR: The Deep End of the Sea by Heather Lyons

THE DEEP END OF THE SEA Synopsis:

What if all the legends you’ve learned were wrong?

Brutally attacked by one god and unfairly cursed by another she faithfully served, Medusa has spent the last two thousand years living out her punishment on an enchanted isle in the Aegean Sea. A far cry from the monster legends depict, she’s spent her time educating herself, gardening, and desperately trying to frighten away adventure seekers who occasionally end up, much to her dismay, as statues when they manage to catch her off guard. As time marches on without her, Medusa wishes for nothing more than to be given a second chance at a life stolen away at far too young an age.

But then comes a day when Hermes, one of the few friends she still has and the only deity she trusts, petitions the rest of the gods and goddesses to reverse the curse. Thus begins a journey toward healing and redemption, of reclaiming a life after tragedy, and of just how powerful friendship and love can be—because sometimes, you have to sink in the deep end of the sea before you can rise back up again.

About Heather Lyons:

Heather Lyons has always had a thing for words—She’s been writing stories since she was a kid. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. Heather is a rabid music fan, as evidenced by her (mostly) music-centric blog, and she’s married to an even larger music snob. They’re happily raising three kids who are mini music fiends who love to read and be read to.

Links:

Website: http://www.heatherlyons.net

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/heatherlyons

THE DEEP END OF THE SEA Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18844839-the-deep-end-of-the-sea?ac=1

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hymheather

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heatherlyonsbooks?fref=ts

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/hymheather/

My Review:

O....M.....G!!! Yep, I said it, and I'll say it again: O...M...G!!!!

If you have read ANY of my reviews you know how much I love my Greek Mythology. I LOVE IT!!!!

So, when this tour came up I jumped at the chance to get in. Of course it helps that it's the amazing Heather Lyons.

What I liked: When I was in school, learning about mythology, I never thought past the story. I never fathom their lives 'before' their incidents.  

I saw a whole different side of Medusa, and thanks to Heather Lyons, I have a new respect for her. The story is told so well, that you can truly feel Dusa's issues/feelings/love/hate. 

Along with Dusa, comes Hermes. In my crazy mind I never saw him the way Heather Lyons describes him, but then again her way was much better. 

Their relationship builds and he is Dusa's only friend. I love how Lyons pulls it all together

What I didn't like: Some parts are 'fast pace'. I wish Heather Lyons would have 'added' some more time for certain parts. 

I know that thus review seems vague but I don't want to spoil anyone, because it's hard to list details of the story. 

So, how about this: If you love a good re-telling of Mythology, or if you want to see Medua (and Hermes) in a different light, THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!! 

Blog Tour Schedule:

February 12

Lovin Los Libros-Character Interview (Medusa)
Vilma’s Book Blog-Excerpt and Review
Bookaholics Anonymous-Review Only
Books She Reads-Review Only

February 13

A Bookish Escape-Review Only
The Book Beacon-Review Only
The Road is You-Review Only

February 14

TSK TSK What to Read-Playlist and Review
Romance Addict-Review Only
Imagine A World-Review Only
Movies Shows & Books-Guest Post
A Nook for Books-Review Only

February 15

Book Briefs-Character Interview (Hermes) & Review
Seeing Night Reviews-Review Only
Part of that World-Review Only

February 16

A Dream Within A Dream-Excerpt
Rumpled Sheets Blog-Review Only
The Phantom Paragrapher-Review Only

February 17

Cocktails and Books-Excerpt and Review
Reading the Alphabet-Review Only
Pandora’s Books-Review Only
The Book Trollop-Review Only

February 18

Starbucks N Books-Guest Post and Review
Riverina Romantics-Review Only
Sofia Loves Books-Review Only
Nomi’s Paranormal Palace-Review Only

February 19

The Book Hookup-Review Only
ReaderGirls-Excerpt
Total Book Geek-Review Only
Kat’s Book Buzz-Review Only

February 20

Library of a Bookwitch-Guest Post and Review
Kate’s Tales of Books & Bands-Review Only
Gabic Reads-Review Only
Dowie’s Place-Review Only

February 21

Book Nerds Across America-Review Only
Poisoned Rationality-Author Interview and Review
Bound by Books-Review Only
Alii’s book Jungle-Review Only

February 22

The Book Whisperer-Review Only
Behind Closed Covers-Guest Post and Review
The Bo0ki3-Review Only
Confessions from Romaholics-Review Only

February 23

Not Everyone’s Mama-Review Only
WTF Are You Reading?-Guest Post and Review
NWA Gossip Girl-Review Only
No BS Book Reviews-Review Only

February 24

What’s Beyond Forks-Dream Cast and Review
My Favorite Things-Review Only
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club-Review Only
Imaginary Reads-Author Interview

February 25

Pink Fluffy Hearts-Excerpt
Book Angel Booktopia-Fun & Different Idea and Review

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ALWAYS (Open Hearts Chronicles) Novella by Amity Hope

Amity Hope ALWAYS

Blurb...

~Always is a companion novella to Ditched.

Now that Holly and Max are finally together, life in Harmony Bay should be nearly perfect. Their first Valentine’s Day together is quickly approaching. Between school, interfering family, and long lost friends that have reappeared it has the potential to turn into a complete disaster.

Or it could turn into the kind of night that neither of them will ever forget.  

Character Interview with Max and Holly:

*What was your first impression of one another?

Max: The first time I saw Holly I was a sophomore in high school. I’d just moved to Chamberlain. She was in my Phys Ed class. We were doing physical fitness testing. She absolutely refused to climb the rope. She told the teacher it was too dangerous to be that far off the ground. I laughed about it all day. I didn’t realize until later that she was serious. She has a few phobias.

Holly: Thanks for sharing that. But wow, okay. That seems like such a long time ago. I guess what I remember noticing is his size. He’s a big guy. And he’s always smiling. He’s got a great smile.

*Most romantic gesture you've done for each other?

Holly: There’s no way I can narrow it down to just one. But this bracelet I always wear, the one with all the charms? Each one represents a gesture. This bracelet is getting pretty full.

Max: Easy question. She moved halfway across the country so we could be together.

*Favorite qualities about one another?

Holly: I love that Max is always willing to help other people out. Friends, family, strangers, it doesn’t matter. He’s just the kind of person that’s always looking out for everyone else. That’s kind of rare.

Max: We were friends for years before we started dating. I can honestly say she’s one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met.

*Let's be honest now...most annoying trait about each other?

Holly: It’s not exactly bad but he does have a hard time telling people no. So sometimes he takes on too much.

Max: Then I guess we’re kind of alike that way. She worries too much about what other people think. Especially her parents. She’s getting better about that. I think she’s finally realized you can’t live your life trying to please everyone around you.

*Do you have pet names? If so what are they?

Holly: Nope.

Max: I’ve tried out a few. Snookums, honey bunny, sugar pie, baby cakes—

Holly: That’s precisely why we avoid pet names. Although I suppose if I’m going to be honest I should admit that sometimes I do call him my snuggle bear.

Max: It’s true. She does. I didn’t think she was going to admit it.

*Ideal Valentine's Day date and/or gift?

Max: I’d prefer somewhere quiet, for sure. As for a gift, I know neither of us cares about the cost. It’s more about finding something that shows just how well you know the other person.

Holly: It’s a cliché, I know, but as long as I’m with Max…I’m happy.

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BREATHLESS MAGIC (Open Hearts Chronicles) Novella by Rachel Higginson

Rachel Higginson BREATHLESS MAGIC

Blurb…

And they lived happily ever after…

Or that was supposed to be how the story ended. Unfortunately for Eden Kendrick, a new enemy threatens her beloved Kingdom, one more dangerous and deadly than ever before.

After enjoying a deliciously elongated honeymoon, Eden returns to the Citadel with her husband and happiness intact. She’s unexpectedly pregnant, but that’s just one more blessing to add to her blooming happiness.

Eden’s heart is full and her endless life has never been more happy. That is until Dmitri Terletov returns from the dead and threatens everyone she loves and the Kingdom she worked so hard to build.

This time around, Eden is supposed to be shielded from the conflict. She has her growing babies to protect now and Kiran wants her as far from the battle as possible. Although she’s a little stir-crazy with idle hands, she agrees that keeping away from Terletov and his deadly experiments is definitely the right course of action.

Unfortunately, Terletov doesn’t agree. And when he arrives at the Castle, uninvited and desperate for the Magic Eden once stole from him, she has no choice but to fight once again to save the people she was born to protect.

***

Character Interview with Kiran and Eden:

*What was your first impression of one another?

Eden: *snort* Love at first sight.

Kiran: For me it was.

Eden: Alright, maybe it wasn’t love at first sight for me, but there was definitely a very strong attraction between us. At least until you opened your mouth.

Kiran: *grinning* I can admit to a fair amount of jackassery in the beginning, but there has always been something pulling us toward the other, even in those first few moments. You were the loveliest thing I had ever seen and I knew more than anything else that I needed to be a part of what you were.

Eden: You’re going to make me cry.

Kiran: Not me, Love. Blame that on the baby.

*Most romantic gesture you've done for each other?

Kiran: That would obviously be when I tried to die for her all those times.

Eden: All those times?

Kiran: There were definitely a lot of times I tried to die for you. You’re just especially selfish when it comes to me.

Eden: *smiling fondly*I would have to agree with that.

Kiran: And what’s your most romantic gesture, Love?

Eden: Same thing. When I wouldn’t let you die for me. Or at least without me.

Kiran: *putting his hand on Eden’s stomach* A baby is pretty romantic.

Eden: *laughing* And I made this baby just for you, Kiran. Just to show you how much I love you.

Kiran: I know.

*Favorite qualities about one another?

Kiran: I love her devotion, her loyalty, her compassion, her sweet spirit. She is just everything to me. And more. So much more.

Eden: You really want me to cry, don’t you? You’re purposefully trying to make me cry.

Kiran: It’s all truth, Love. But you know that. You know you’re my eternity.

Eden: This is my favorite quality, whatever this is. The way he says things that change my life, my way of thinking… my soul. The way he leads and the way he follows when he has to. The way every day he is a better man than the day before. And the way he will always and forever love me.

*Let's be honest now...most annoying trait about each other?

Eden: Oh, lord. The smirk. Definitely and without a doubt, the smirk.

Kiran: *smirking* I don’t smirk. I don’t.

Eden: *rolls her eyes* Sure, sure. Now, come on, let’s hear it. What’s my most annoying trait?

Kiran: Your stubborn spirit. Most definitely.

Eden: I’m not stubborn.

Kiran: Right.

Eden: I’m not.

Kiran: *grins*

*Do you have pet names? If so what are they?

Eden: Love. He has always called me Love.

Kiran: Because you are love, in every sense of that word. *thinks for a moment* Do you have a pet name for me?

Eden:  *clears her throat* Does jackass count?

Kiran: Er, no. The answer to the question is no, she does not have a pet name for me.

*Ideal Valentine's Day date and/or gift?

Kiran: I would love it if she would relax, put her feet up and for just one day make it so I didn’t constantly worry about her and the pregnancy.

Eden: Isn’t that a gift to me?

Kiran: We have this conversation daily and I have yet to witness feet up and arse relaxed, so no. That gift is specifically for me.

Eden: Fine, then I would like the Indian Palace. I loved the Indian Palace.

Kiran: *after he recovers from shock* Then why did you blow it up?

Eden: *shrugs* You know, desperate times and all…

Kiran: *shakes his head* Maybe the Palace is gone… for good thanks to you. But we can go back to India, Love. Just say when.

Eden: When.

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FINDING ME AGAIN (Open Hearts Chronicles) Novella by AMBER GARZA

Amber Garza FINDING ME AGAIN

Blurb...

I know most people don’t find the love of their life at sixteen. But I did. At least that’s what I thought when I fell in love with Tripp Bauer. That’s why it was so hard when we drifted apart after high school graduation.

But I’ve never stopped loving him.

On a trip back to our hometown, I run into Tripp and the spark between us is undeniable.

Is it possible for us to find our way together again? Will I really get the happily ever after I’ve longed for?

Don’t miss the stunning conclusion to Tripp and Hadley’s story!

***

Character Interview with Hadley and Tripp:

1. What was your first impression of one another? Hadley: Tripp knows exactly what I thought about him (laughs). I thought he was your typical, popular jock. Boy was I wrong. Tripp: Hadley was the shy girl at school, the one who walked with her head down and kept to herself. I thought she seemed sweet and quiet - I had no idea she was so actually this incredibly vibrant, strong person on the inside.

2. Most romantic gesture:  Hadley: I guess I'm not the romantic one of the two of us. But the most romantic thing Tripp has ever done for me was when he drew my picture. It was amazing to see myself the way he saw me. Tripp: Hadley is romantic in the little everyday things she does. Like the way she was always remembers my favorite things and gets them for me. Also, how she always builds me up and takes care of me.

3. Most annoying trait. Hadley: How much time do you have? (laughs). Just kidding. No, honestly I think sometimes Tripp can be a little self-depreciating and that annoys me. Tripp: I would have to say that sometimes Hadley can be a bit of a control freak. Hadley: I am not! Tripp: Oh yes, you are. Even her best friend calls her the most annoying back seat driver in the world. Hadley: That's just because Paige is an awful driver. Tripp: (laughs) You got me there.

4. Pet names: Hadley: I guess we don't really have pet names for each other. Tripp: We could come up with some. Hadley: (smiling) I think I'm good.

5. Ideal Valentine’s Day gift. Hadley: I don't care much about material things. I think I'd like a romantic day with Tripp - just he and I. Doesn't really matter what we do but an entire day just he and I would be heaven. Tripp: Funny I was thinking the same thing. Hadley: Then I guess I know what we're doing this year!

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DERIVE (Open Heart Chronicles) Novella by Jamie Magee

Jamie Magee DERIVE

Burb...

Aden, son of Tarek, is a seer—an elite member of The Selected which stands guard before The Fall, the border between light and dark realities. Darkness was foretold at his birth along with the words ‘lavender waters will set you free.’ What Aden assumed to be a mythical prophecy, is eventually manifested in a ravishing beauty with long, lavender hair.

Skylynn had seen their future, the sacrifice and divide set before them. She told him they had three days—three days before they must part to meet in a distant future. Aden dares to challenge the limits set before him by empowering his innocent lover with words and energy as he plots to face the darkness predicted before it claims her—and their rightful future together.

***

Character Interview with Aden:

*What was your first impression of one another?

The world stood still, everything made sense all at once, yet, nothing made sense at the same time. Life changing.

*Most romantic gesture you've done for each other?

Our time was brief, almost fleeting. I did give Skylynn a violin…the power to escape the world for a moment or two as she played…we danced for hours, holding each other for all the world to see.

*Favorite qualities about one another?

Skylynn has a way of making everything seem sensual, the way she sees the world, what she’s prepared to do, is beyond explanation. I’ve never known a woman as strong as her. She has all this strength, but she melts when I hold her, she leans when her path weighs her down, which makes her even stronger.  She’s unexplainable.

*Let's be honest now...most annoying trait about each other?

I’m still looking for that…

*Do you have pet names? If so what are they?

She’s my angel.

*Ideal Valentine's Day date and/or gift?

Ideal date would be to just vanish with her, to find some place that we could hide, hold each other, a day where we would not once glance to the horizon and wonder what tomorrow holds.

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