Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Rise by Andrea Cremer


When I started reading this book I thought it was the second book in a prequel TRILOGY.  I have since discovered that it is a duology and the series has come to a close.

Rift left off with a very action packed last third of the book and I assumed the momentum would continue throughout Rise.  Unfortunately, there was some action at the very beginning, but then there was A LOT more discovery, world building, and tension before we received another dose of excitement at the very end.  While I enjoyed learning about the history of the Keepers and Searchers and what led up to the events in the Nightshade series, there wasn't enough here to hold my attention for an extended period of time. 

The relationship between Ember and Borrow was a tease most of the book, which became frustrating as the chapters went on.  I realize the book is set in the 1400s and times were different than they are today, but REALLY? 

Rise had the feel of a middle book.  Maybe the intent was simply to bridge the gap between Rift and Nightshade.  If that is the case, it was very well done.  If this was supposed to provide the type of closure for these characters that we received in Bloodrose, it fell short.  Don't get me wrong...I think Andrea is an excellent writer.  The tale is eloquently told, but it lacked the spark that her other books have had. 

The rise to power of Eira and Bosque and their developing relationship was one of the highlights of this book.  We are also able to see how the Guardians came to be, which was a fascinating element as well.  Overall, I think any fan of the Nightshade series will enjoy the history this book provides.  I just wish I could have read it before Nightshade.  I would have had a better understanding of the magical elements the books contain and I could have ended the series on a high note.

Monday, January 28, 2013

BLOG TOUR and GIVEAWAY: Elfin by Quinn Loftis

Elfin 

By: Quinn Loftis


Stalk Quinn here:





More about Elfin:

Elfin on Goodreads

Elfin on Amazon 

Elfin on Barnes & Noble

Elfin on smashwords

Book Blurb:



Before tonight Cassie Tate’s biggest concerns were whether she could pass Algebra and how she was going to keep Elora, her best friend, from dressing her in a skimpy fairy costume for Halloween. Her feet were firmly planted in suburban reality and she had no reason to believe her life would be anything but that of a typical teenager. That is until tonight, when Cassie saw something that no human was ever supposed to see; in the blink of an eye she was thrown into the world of the Light and Dark Elves.

He comes from a realm where light and dark have fought for millennia. He is of a race known to humans only in myths and legends. The darkness that lives inside him is a part of both who and what he is and it makes him the most gifted spy and assassin in the history of his time. His life is not his own; he lives in the service of the Dark Elf King. He slays who he must, has mercy on no one, is relentless in his hunt, and never tires of seeing his prey fall. He is Triktapic, assassin, spy, most feared of the Dark Elves.

Now, in the midst of his King’s complicated plans to expand the Dark Elves’ holdings into the mortal realm, for the first time, Trik finds his loyalties divided. For no Elf, Dark or Light, can turn away from their Chosen.

Unbeknownst to the mortal realm, the battle between Light and Dark is being brought to their doorstep. The only one who can keep it at bay holds darkness in his heart like a lover, and the one who can sway that heart must decide if she can look beyond his black past, beyond his evil nature and see the man he is destined to be.

The question must be asked, does love really cover a multitude of sins? Can true love actually conquer all or will his darkness consume those around him until all that stands is an assassin with the blood of the mortal realm on his hands?


My Review:

I love love love Quinn so much!! Her Grey Wolf Series is by far one of my most favorite series. When she announced that she was writing a new series I KNEW I HAD TO READ IT! Then an ARC of Elfin appeared in my inbox and I was jumping with joy!!

Best Part of the Book: TRIK!! *swoon* oh you sexy elf you I heart you more that I should!!! (haha!) I love that Trik is that bad-boy with a good side! Then there is Cassie...I love her!! She is so sweet and good that you want to be her best friend!! Even though she and Trik are completely different that are perfect for each other!! I love how Cassie brings the good out of Trik, even when he is fighting it!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR BOOK 2!! 

The last thing that I love is that this is not a typically Quinn-Loftis-cliffhanger. In the Grey Wolf Series Quinn ALWAYS leaves us hanging on the brink of losing our minds! With Elfin she gives a "small" cliffhanger and it was WONDERFUL!

Not so great about the book: This book was great! It kept me interested through ever chapter and I wanted more!! Quinn knows how to keep a story going!!

Cannot wait for BOOK 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Photobucket

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Mini-Review: Son of the Accused by Andrew O'Brien



I was contact by the author to review the first chapter of his book Son of the Accused.  That's right just the first chapter.

This story is based on a true story.

The first chapter is amazing!  You get to meet Michael while he is heading into a courtroom.  On his way, we get a "flashback" into his life growing up.  Let me just say, it's not a good one.  I could really feel the torture and pain that Michael went through growing up.  It is quite sad.

The end of the chapter leaves you on a cliffhanger as Michael is being called to the witness stand.

I will definitely be looking for this book when it is release later this year.

Please follow Andrew O'Brien on his site: Son of the Accused.

BOOK REVIEW: From Scratch (Love Lines #2.5) by Diana Nixon

Goodreads description:


Our lives are a cascade of events that pass faster than we would like them to. Time changes everything. Our habits, our views, our circle of friends. But there is one thing that remains the same over the years. 
Our memories.
Through them we cherish the most unforgettable moments of our history. And they also retain some things that can't be forgotten….
But one day you realize that yesterday should be left in the past. Because tomorrow your new life begins, and you go back to the drawing board. 
A love story of Evan Murray and Tara Mackenzie.
A story that should last forever….
But no one knows when forever ends….

Mary's Review:

OMG! I don't even know where to begin! Well, let me say this:  THANK YOU DIANA!  Right before I was given this book Diana Nixon posted this on her Facebook Page:


Yep, I was one of the people she dedicated the book too.  Talk about *fan girl scream*!!!

Ok, now to the review:

Best Part of the book:  EVAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh, I didn't think that Diana could make me love him anymore BUT I WAS WRONG!  I was able to see Evan in a whole different light.  This was just 60 pages of Evan's and Tara's relationship and I loved every word of it.  With the other books in the series we (as readers) don't not really understand why Evan and Tara relationship ended.  Especially, when I think they are so perfect together.  With this book, we learn the ups and downs of the relationship and why it ended. However, after reading this I began to understand MORE of the interactions of Evan and Tara in the other books.  I really want to go so in depth in this review of the book, but it will spoil those who have not read it. I will say this (again) I love Evan!

Not so great about book:  I will it was longer. I just wanted more Evan!  Other than that, there is nothing wrong with this book!!

If you want to purchase this book, you can here



If you want to read the first book of series, Love Lines, you can purchase it here:

BOOK REVIEW: Wingless and Forsaken by Dawn White

Goodreads description:

Alexander and Gaius go in search for their much needed revenge. But come across much more than they had ever planned. Lea and Zari must transverse the very pits of despair in order to save their mates. Zari learns of a deep dark secret that has been kept from her and all other Fae since the beginning of time. When the Queen of Nalla Vareim gets involved no one will be the same ever again.


Mary's Review:

How is the possible?! I mean seriously!  This book was WAY BETTER than the first.  I could not put it down.

This review will be short and quick, just like the book.  Sometimes, I find it harder to review novellas because I don't want to spoil anything but I want to tell you everything! (does that make sense?)

I loved seeing Lea's stronger side in this book.  I love the whole journey!! Nothing like a good love story when you trying to save your mate by going through Hell.  Alexander and Gaius want revenge on their brother and that is one reason for the journey through Hell.  This is why Lea and her sister Zari are following.

I just wish that this book was longer.  However, this book is so packed with actions and adventures that you literally fly through it in no time.

Now I just have to wait for the next book...............

Friday, January 25, 2013

Friday's Five: Best Kisses


Today, I will tell you my top five best kisses.  HEHE!! This is so much fun, but so had to chose.  I have some many!

1.  Elli and Shea, Taking Shots by Toni Aleo:  I loved their first kiss and every kiss they had in the book. Toni Aleo did an amazing job throughout the book describing their love and kisses!  It was H-O-T and sweet!!!!!!!!!!

2.  Jennifer and Decebel, Just One Drop by Quinn Loftis:  If you know me at all, you know that I love Decebel more than anything!! I only share him with Jennifer because I am a nice person.  However, their first kiss was perfection and every kiss, thereafter!!!!!!!!!!!!!

3.  Jacqueline and Lucas, Easy by Tammara Webber: Nothing like a hot, tattooed tutor and a sweet, kind student.  Their first kiss perfection and they only got HOTTER!  Oh, did I mention that Lucas is also an artist.

4.  Eden and Kiran, Reckless Magic by Rachel Higginson: You know I had to do it.  Eden and Kiran are my most fave characters and their first kiss was epic (well, to me it was).  With every book, it only got better!!!!

5.  Katy and Daemon, Obsidian by Jennifer Armentrout:  I love this series! Katy and Daemon are perfect together, although their relationship is a bit complex.  However, their first was INSANE and then it was just a roller coaster of emotions after that.

Be sure to visit Jacque's Book Nook and Dreaming Dreams to see who they picked for their Best Kisses

GRAB THIS BOOK: Twisted by Amity Hope

Amazing author and friend, Amity Hope, is running a weekend special for her book, Twisted!

It is ONLY 99 CENTS! This will only last till Sunday! Grab it NOW!

On top of that it has a beautiful new cover!

Just look:


If you want to purchase the book, you can here:

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

BOOK REVIEW: Wingless and Damned by Dawn White

Goodreads description:

Alexander is the Alpha wolf of the Neuri werewolf tribe, set to destroy anything associated with the dreaded strigoi. Lea is a magnificent Fae -- or so she believed but she soon discovers she may not be after all. With Alexander, Lea’s and basically the worlds fate is in the hands of the mated pair. They must act fast and not just on the revenge they so desperately need. Can their love save us all? As Lea and Alexander’s souls hang in the balance they come to realize we are all a little Damned.

MARY'S REVIEW

This novella was different.  Not "bad-different" but "good-different".

Best Part of the Book: This is a action packed novella.There seems to be every magical creature in this book.  I loved it.  It was fast paced (but did not seem rushed) .  I love Alex and Lea!  I love the plot and the purpose of trying to end the curse and not end the curse.  I can't go into to much detail because I don't want to spoil it for anyone.  This novella starts out with how the curse began with Aison and Cierra and progressively goes down the line.  For this to be such a short novella, I think Dawn White did an amazing JOB!!

Not so great about book:  It ended too fast!  Actually, it ended so fast that I email Dawn White because I thought something was wrong with the copy I got.  However, she assured me that it was the full copy!

Now I HAVE to read Book 2: Wingless and Forsaken

If you want to purchase this book you can here:

Sunday, January 20, 2013

BOOK REVIEW: Fields of Elysium by A.B.Whelan

Goodreads description:


How can love mend a heart full of hate?

Small town girl, Molly Bennett, moves to Los Angeles where she becomes an outsider while attending Beverly Hills High School. It seems life cannot be any more dreadful. Then one day after school, something magical happens. On a secluded hike in the Hollywood Hills, Molly chases her disobedient mutt and only friend into a hidden cavern. She stumbles upon a strange glimmering gateway that transports her to Arkana, a planet that is the cradle of an advanced human race. There, teenagers navigate amazing flying vehicles, compete in perilous games for glory, and possess supernatural powers. While Molly tries to wrap her mind around this unbelievable discovery, she meets the alluring and mysterious Victor Sorren. He is a Sentinel Apprentice, whose hatred toward people from Earth is beyond understanding. Yet every time Victor unpredictably saves Molly's life, his heart draws closer to hers, no matter how much he tries to fight against it. It further complicates things that their growing friendship is strictly forbidden. Earth people are prohibited in Arkana, yet Molly continues to cross through the portal to Arkana to see Victor. Torn between their double lives, they go down a dangerous path, from where there is no return and multiple endings.

Would you fight to be with the one you truly love? What cost would you be willing to sacrifice for that love?

Fields of Elysium is a suspenseful romantic tale full of forbidden secrets, unimaginable danger, deception, and the never-ending fight for true love.

MARY'S REVIEW:

I was given this book by the author for review.  At this time, I would like to thank the author for the book. I did enjoy the book.  It was very creative in the description of Arkana and the characters are enjoyable.

Best Part of the Book: I enjoy the story line of this book.  Molly just moved to LA from NJ and was not quite fitting in yet.  She was taking a hike and found a "worm hole" and it sent her to a WHOLE other world.   In this world Molly meets, Weston.  I think of him as of "the boy next door".  However, its his friend Victor that really catches Molly's eye.  Victor's goal in life is to go to the Sentinel and fight the Terrakas (which as the "Earthlings").  You can see right off the struggle and connection with Molly and Victor, but they are from two different worlds.

Not so great about the book:  Like I said before, I liked the book, but its last 40% of the book that was "strange".  There is Victor's whole family tree that got thrown into the mix.  Then Molly's ex-boyfriend, Adam, that came out of nowhere.  Plus, I was expecting more "action".  I am going to assume that there will be a second book, because the ending .... well, it just ends.

Overall, the book is good and I will read Book 2 (if there is one).

If you want to purchase the book, you can here:

BLOG TOUR AND GIVEWAY: Chasing The Witch by Jessica Gibson


Jessica Gibson can be described as an amazing person and author.  Her series Boston Witches is one of my faves.  The second book: Chasing the Witch is outstanding!!


About Chasing The Witch:

After the events of Mark of the Witch, Jilly at last begins to breathe easier though her powers are still growing. But can she harness them in time to confront a new chain of events that threatens to change everything?

Caroline has finally accepted her life as a witch, but when a stranger comes into her life she's forced to question her family loyalty.

The sisters are thrown together to protect a young girl from the enemy determined to hunt her down. Can they save her -- and themselves?


Purchase here:


If you have not read Book 1: Mark of the Witch, here is the information


About Mark of the Witch:

Magic flows through Jillian Proctor's veins as surely as blood, but so far her life outside Boston has been peaceful. William Morgan blows into Jilly's life like a hurricane, unleashing her magic and sending her out of control. Unknowingly, William brings an enemy who only wants to posses the power of the witch. Jilly must learn to harness her magic before she loses it - and everything in her life is destroyed.

Purchase here:


About the Author:


Jessica Gibson is a recovering bookaholic, she's down from four books a week to a more reasonable one. It was that love of words and creativity that made her dream about writing her first book. That dream was hidden for years, always put on the back burner, filed away in the "someday" section, until her husband Matt gave her the kick in the pants she needed to actually get off her butt and write.
Jessica and Matt live in Southern California and have a serious addiction to reality tv shows like Pawn Stars and American Restoration. They have one son and hope to add to the family in the near future.
Aside from writing, she runs an online event planning business called the Release Day Diva. In addition to novels, Jessica writes and maintains the blog Book on the Bright Side. Keep up with Jessica and her latest releases and events on her blog.




Tour Schedule:

Jan 20th – www.booknerdsacrossamerica.com (host)

Jan 21st - http://booksnbrownies.com/ (book spotlight)
www.tessmw.blogspot.com (book spotlight)

Jan 22nd - http://tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com/ (book spotlight)

Jan 23rd - http://craftymomof3.com/ (book spotlight AND character interview)
www.jennaroads.com (author interview)

Jan 24th - http://iloveindiebooks.blogspot.com/ (book spotlight)


Jan 26th - http://www.everandeversight.blogspot.com/ (review AND author interview)



Giveaway:

Prize #1 is Mark of the Witch and Chasing the Witch paperback books

Prize #2 is all 4 of Jessica Gibson’s ebooks: Mark of the Witch, Chasing the Witch, Blood Lust and Love and Blood

Prize #3 is a swag pack of bookmarks and postcards


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, January 19, 2013

DOUBLE COVER REVEAL: Taking Shots AND Trying to Score by Toni Aleo

I love Toni Aleo's books and I am loving the covers!!

Title: 
Taking Shots 
by Toni Aleo

Expected Publication: 
May 13, 2013

Link:


Synopsis: 
In Toni Aleo’s exhilarating debut, the first in a series featuring the hockey hunks of the Nashville Assassins, a reformed bad boy helps a charming, willful woman face off against the demons of her past.
 
No matter how hard she tries, Elleanor Fisher never thinks she’s good enough, from her job to her weight to her love life. After enduring years of abuse at the hands of an ex-boyfriend, Elli has been drifting through life in a daze. Until, that is, she meets Shea Adler on a promotional shoot for the NHL’s Nashville Assassins. Before Elli knows what’s happening, the gorgeous Shea breaks the ice and shatters her world.

A brilliant athlete inside the rink, Shea Adler is tired of the life he’s living outside of it: the girls, the money, the drinking. But everything changes when he meets Elli. After laying eyes on this feisty, witty, beautiful woman, he feels like he’s just taken the hardest hit of his life. No matter how skeptical she is, Shea knows they are meant to be together—if only he can convince Elli to put her insecurities aside  throw her insecurities out the window before she misses out on a shot at love.


The Cover:



Title: 
Trying to Score
by Toni Aleo

Expected Publication: 
June 10, 2013
by Loveswept

Link:


Synopsis: 
In a captivating novel of hockey and healing hearts, the newest member of the Nashville Assassins pulls a power play to make things right with the one that got away.

Fallon Parker’s dream has always been to turn her family’s wine company into a runaway success and eventually to start a cellar of her own. Since graduating from college, she has worked relentlessly to make that dream a reality, especially after taking a chance on love—and losing. By the time Fallon becomes an official sponsor of the Nashville Assassins, she feels like all her hard work is finally paying off. And then the man who broke her heart skates back into her life.

On the ice, Lucas Brooks is the NHL’s leading scorer—at least when he’s not in the box. Off the ice, he’s a mess, with all his anger and misery bottled up inside. He threw away the most important person in his life and has regretted it ever since. But when Lucas returns to Nashville in a trade, he’s determined to convince Fallon that he’s a changed man. The attraction is still there. The tension is electrifying. But the odds are stacked against them—especially after Lucas finds out that Fallon has been keeping a devastating secret.



The Cover:



About the Author


Toni Aleo is a mother of two and married to her high school sweetheart. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading the latest romance novel, taking pictures, and going to as many Nashville Predators game as she can!

Links:

Friday, January 18, 2013

Friday's Fictional Boyfriend: Aiden St. Delphi

This weeks Fictional Boyfriend is:

Aiden St. Delphi

He hails from Jennifer L. Amentrout's Covenant Series.

While reading this series I was not sure on my feeling about him.  Was he good? Could he really be trusted?  What is up with the mood swings?

Aiden was very serious about his job with the Sentinel and he cared very much about his family.  However, his relationship with Half-Blood, Alexandria Andros (Alex) is what I love to read the most.  That is also where his "mood swings" come in at.




All of  my answers came in the Book 3 of the Series: Deity!  OMG! I love Aiden and he is more than what you can see (or what you read on the page)!





If you would like to purchase the first book of the series, Half - Blood, you can here:


Friday's Five: Top 5 Female Heroine


This week's Friday's Five is my Top 5 Female Heroine.

1. Katniss Everdeen, The Hunger Games



2. Maggie Masters Jacobson, Significance Series


3. Eden Matthews St. Andrews Kendrick. The Star-crossed Series


4. Evie Claremount, The Premonition Series




5. Mage McPherson, Wicked Fate Series


Be sure to CHECK out the other Friday's Five on Jacque's Book Nook and Dreaming Dreams

COVER REVEAL: You Got Me by Mercy Amare

Mercy Amare is at it again. She is revealing her new book You Got Me.

Book Blurb:


Roxy is broken
Aiden wants to fix her

No matter how hard Roxy tries to overcome her past, she can't. She writes on her arms to escape the pain, but nothing can sooth the ache that she feels.

Aiden didn't go to college to meet girls, he came to play football. Too bad that it is impossible for him to stay away from Roxy.

After meeting on the roof, they instantly feel connected, but neither of them are ready for love.

You Got Me is a story about new beginnings, and finding love when you least expect it.

Here is the cover:


For the full effect:


This book will be released on February 8th.  Be sure to put it on your "to-read" list on Goodreads.

Be sure to keep up with Mercy Amare on her Facebook, Twitter, Blog and Goodreads.


BOOK REVIEW: Taboo Kisses by Gracen Miller

WARNING:
THIS BOOK IS FOR 18 YEARS OR OLDER!

If you want to read my review, just "click" below.  PLEASE REMEMBER THIS BOOK IS FOR ADULTS ONLY!!

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

BLOG TOUR AND GIVEAWAY: Down to You by M. Leighton


Tour dates:
January 14-19, 2013

Author Name
M. Leighton


About the Author:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, M. Leighton, is a native of Ohio. She relocated to the warmer climates of the South, where she can be near the water all summer and miss the snow all winter. Possessed of an overactive imagination from early in her childhood, Michelle finally found an acceptable outlet for her fantastical visions: literary fiction. Having written over a dozen novels, these days Michelle enjoys letting her mind wander to more romantic settings with sexy Southern guys, much like the one she married and the ones you'll find in her latest books. When her thoughts aren't roaming in that direction, she'll be riding horses, swimming in ponds and experiencing life on a ranch, all without leaving the cozy comfort of her office. 

About Michelle: I love coffee and chocolate, even more so when they are combined. I'm convinced that one day they could be the basis for world peace. I also love the color red and am seriously considering dying my hair.


Social Media links:  





Title
Down to You (The Bad Boys, #1)



Release date
September 23, 2012

Age Group:  
Adult 

Genre
Contemporary Romance

Tour organizer:

Book Description:
The scorching tale of one girl, two brothers and a love triangle…that’s not. 

Olivia Townsend is nothing special. She’s just a girl working her way through college so she can return home to help her father run his business. She’s determined not to be the second woman in his life to abandon him, even if it means putting her own life on hold. To Olivia, it’s clear what she must do. Plain and simple. Black and white. But clear becomes complicated when she meets Cash and Nash Davenport. They’re brothers. Twins. 

Cash is everything she’s always wanted in a guy. He’s a dangerous, sexy bad boy who wants her in his bed at any cost. He turns her insides to mush and, with just one kiss, makes her forget why he’s no good for her. Nash is everything she’s ever needed in a guy. He’s successful, responsible and intensely passionate. But he’s taken. Very taken, by none other than Marissa, Liv’s rich, beautiful cousin. That doesn’t stop Olivia from melting every time he looks at her, though. With just one touch, he makes her forget why they can never be together. 

Black and white turns to shades of gray when Olivia discovers the boys are hiding something, something that should make her run as far and as fast as she can. But it’s too late to run. Olivia’s already involved. And in love. With both of them. Both brothers make her heart tremble. Both brothers set her body on fire. She wants them both. And they want her. How will she ever choose between them?


Links to find/buy the book:  

Amazon  

B&N 


Kobo 



Mary's Review:

I don't think I can express how my I love M. Leighton.  Between her writing style, stories and her outrageous  personality she the perfect author! On top that, she can some HOT HOT guys!

Best part of book:  Hello Cash and Nash! Yummy, Yummy twins!  Cash: bad boy, owner of the nightclub, Dual and hot! Nash: good guy, lawyer and hot! I can understand Olivia's problem. She is attracted to both and is not sure who to choose.  Olivia is an awesome character and was very nice to relate too.  Each time she interacts with Cash or Nash her emotions are all over the place.  Each of the guys are perfect in their own way.  This just makes it harder for Olivia.  I loved ever part of this book and M. Leighton does not disappoint at all.

Not so great about the book: There is nothing wrong with this book.  However, there is a huge TWIST in this book and a CLIFFHANGER! M. Leighton definitely knows how to leave a girl wanting more.  Another reason why I love her!  I cannot wait for Book 2: Up to Me

Up To Me (The Bad Boys #2)


Release Date:

January 4, 2013

Book Description:

Happily ever after doesn’t come easy.  But for love, it’s always worth the fight.

Olivia finds bliss unlike any she’s ever known in Cash’s arms.  He sets her skin on fire and melts her heart right inside her chest.  Unfortunately, their happily ever after is short-lived when a shadow from Cash’s past threatens to turn their world upside down.
   Dangerous people from his father’s world have discovered that Cash holds information that could put them away for a very long time.  And they’re willing to do anything—and hurt anybody—to get it back.  Giving it up means Cash must choose between the life of his father and the life of Olivia.

Having nearly overcome her wariness of bad boys, Olivia’s trust is shaken when this new threat arises.  Now she finds that Cash is not only a danger to her heart, but his family has associations that are a danger to her life as well.  She soon discovers that there are some situations in life where trust is a girl’s only option.  And this is one of them.  If she’s to live, she must trust Cash with her life.  But to Olivia, that’s much, much easier than letting go and trusting him with her heart.

Links to purchase/find book:

Giveaway:

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay

Goodreads Description:


I live in a world without magic or miracles. A place where there are no clairvoyants or shapeshifters, no angels or superhuman boys to save you. A place where people die and music disintegrates and things suck. I am pressed so hard against the earth by the weight of reality that some days I wonder how I am still able to lift my feet to walk.

Former piano prodigy Nastya Kashnikov wants two things: to get through high school without anyone learning about her past and to make the boy who took everything from her—her identity, her spirit, her will to live—pay.

Josh Bennett’s story is no secret: every person he loves has been taken from his life until, at seventeen years old, there is no one left. Now all he wants is be left alone and people allow it because when your name is synonymous with death, everyone tends to give you your space.

Everyone except Nastya, the mysterious new girl at school who starts showing up and won’t go away until she’s insinuated herself into every aspect of his life. But the more he gets to know her, the more of an enigma she becomes. As their relationship intensifies and the unanswered questions begin to pile up, he starts to wonder if he will ever learn the secrets she’s been hiding—or if he even wants to.

The Sea of Tranquility is a rich, intense, and brilliantly imagined story about a lonely boy, an emotionally fragile girl, and the miracle of second chances

Mary's Review:

I had this book forever on my Kindle, but like some others it got lost in the shuffle.  Finally, I got to it and I could KICK myself for not reading it sooner.

Best part of book:  This was such an amazing book! I loved it from the beginning to the end! Josh and Nastya are amazing and wonderful characters! Katja Millay kept this book going from the very first scene.  There were a lot of unanswered questions, but that was what kept me wanting more.  Nastya's "silence" throughout the book was an outstanding.  I loved her personality, courage and her determination to find "the guy".  At times, I just wanted to reach through the Kindle and hold her.  Josh is my new fictional boyfriend.  His "silence" is just as loud as Nastya at times.  Also, just like Nastya, there were times I wanted to reach with the Kindle and hold him too.  When their paths finally crossed I loved every interaction with them

Not so great about the book:  NOTHING!  This was so good!  It kept you questioning and wanting more!  I would recommend for everyone!

You can purchase the book here:

Book Blitz and Giveaway: The Forgotten Ones by Laura Howard


Title: The Forgotten Ones

Author: Laura Howard

Genre: NA Paranormal Fantasy Romance

Expected release date: May 15, 2013

Age Group: New Adult

Cover Designer: Stephanie Mooney 




Book Description:

Allison O'Malley just graduated from college. Her life's plan is to get a job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She doesn't have room for friends or even Ethan, who clearly wants more.

When Allison's long-lost father shows up, he claims he can bring her mother back from the dark place her mind has sent her. He reveals legends of a race of people long forgotten, the Tuatha de Danaan, along with the truth about why he abandoned her mother.







Share on Facebook and/or Twitter and you could win a $50 Amazon (or B&N) Gift card!



Monday, January 14, 2013

Double (YES DOUBLE) Cover Reveal from Misty Provencher

May I just say that I think I love Misty Provencher a little bit more each day?  Well, today I "double" love her!

She is revealing her next two books!!  That's right ........ TWO BOOKS!!! *applauds* *throws confetti*

Book 1:  Full of Grace.  This is a companion book to Hale Maree.  This makes me SO HAPPY!


Just beautiful!!  

Book 2: Jamb.  This is the 3rd book to the Cornerstone Series.  I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK!!


As soon as I know some release dates, I will let you know!

Blog Tour: REVIEW/INTERVIEW AND GIVEAWAY: Under A Painted Sky by Jenna Roads


I am so excited to be part of this tour! Jenna Roads is an amazing author and has become a dear friend.  On my stop, of the tour, I will be doing a quick interview with Jenna and my review of her debut book: Under A Painted Sky




About the Book:

Isabella Reed is a fast-track twenty one year old from a small Florida town. She flees to the Land of Enchantment, Albuquerque, NM, where the beautiful painted skies go on forever and hold hope for a fresh start.
She meets Logan Hayes, a sexy guide who has been hired to show her all the sights of her new city. He shows her much more than that. Something Paranormal happens to Isabella that she is unaware of when touring the Petroglyphs and her life takes a downward spiral into a supernatural captivity that no one will believe except for Logan. He vows to protect her with his life after seeing for himself.



Mary's Review:


Best part of the book: By far Logan is the best part of this book! Isabella is so lucky that her aunt paid for him to "show her around"! I loved the connection between Isabella and Logan! This was a bit of a different story than I normally read. Spirit/Ghost stories are not what I usually read; however, Jenna did a great job of keeping the story going and interesting. I really enjoy seeing the relationship between Logan and Isabella the most!! It was great!!

Not so great about book: It didn't have that "cliffhanger" factor. I thought it was going to lead into a BIG cliffhanger and it really didn't. Now this is not a "bad" thing, but I am interested on where Jenna Roads will "pick up" the next book!

Interview with Jenna Roads

Why did you become an author?
I became an author because I felt I had exciting and original stories to tell.

What is the one thing you enjoy the most as being an author?
 I enjoy plot busting as I call it the most. I like closing all the loop holes of impossibilities and making them seem possible. I also like building characters.

How did you come up with the idea of Under a Painted Sky?
I wanted to write something original and different than what is out there now. There is nothing wrong with vampires and werewolves. I love them but I wanted a different paranormal. When I was in New Mexico visiting the Petroglyphs I found out the images made on the rocks were from hundreds of years ago by many different people. I remember thinking wow, there are lots of stories to be told here. I wondered about all of those people and what they would say telling their stories in words and not pictures. The mysteries of the place seemed like the perfect paranormal setting.

Why did you set the story in New Mexico?
It is a gorgeous and mystical place with very rich history and even the place of alien sightings in Roswell, New Mexico.

Did you plan on for the book to be a series or did it just work out that way?
It just worked that way. I guess about half way through the book, I decided I must tell more of the stories with these characters growing and new ones being added.


About the Author:

YA/ New Adult Paranormal Romance Author 
I am a Registered Nurse who is now devoting my time to writing fiction, reading, making scrapbooks, taking pictures, traveling and enjoying family and friends. I am a mother of two. When I'm not writing, I'm dreaming up characters for my next book. I love cotton nighties and comfortable shoes. My dream is to one day have an island of my very own where I can hold up there and write until my hearts content.


www.jennaroads.com

www.facebook.com/AuthorJennaRoads

https://twitter.com/JennaRoads

http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/9992120-jenna-roads

http://pinterest.com/jennaroads/




Giveaway


This starts today and closes the day after blog tour on Jan. 20, 2013

Win this ring that Logan gave to Isabella in my book a $220 value or take the cash!
This is for readers and bloggers alike. All you have to do is review her book and post
on Amazon and Goodreads. Reviews will be verified. Enter your name in the rafflecopter set-up
 for reviews on her blog here: 




Along, with that there is a $50 Amazon Giftcard


Tour Schedule

Jan. 6 
Taylor Lakke
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 7
Kristina Snyder
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 8
Mel & Lana
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 8 Thomas Ryder
Feature/Giveaway

Jan. 9
Nova Reylin
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 10 Ellie Dunn
Feature/Giveaway

Jan.11
Tammy Hall
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan.12
Kendall McCuggin
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 13 Vicki Elam
Feature/Giveaway

Jan. 13 TamaraBeard
Feature/Giveaway

Jan.14
Mary Smith
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 15
Jennifer Mathis
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 16
Rebecca Van Kaam
Review/Interview/Giveaway

Jan. 17 Peggy Warren
Feature/Giveaway    

Jan. 18 Jennifer Swiger
Feature/Giveaway

Jan.19 Lindsay Avalon
Feature/Giveaway

Sunday, January 13, 2013

The Golden Link (The Castellum Novels #1) by Keira Moyer

Goodreads Description:

Kain is a rebel leader, a hired protector of the lost princess, and one of the seven chosen to yield an amulet. Tristan is an elitist, the head of the palace guard, and stronger and faster than anyone else with magic; except magic’s source, Arianna. When their three worlds collide, secrets of Arianna’s royal lineage are discovered, and the murderer of her family is revealed. On this tale of betrayal, Arianna learns that all choices come with a price, and hatred can consume the ones you love.

MARY'S REVIEW:

I was approached by the author to read this book.  I read the description and saw the beautiful cover and I thought it sounded (and looked) amazing.

Best part of the book:  OMG! I loved this book from the first page to the cliffhanger at the end.  I love Arianna.  She was raised by her caretaker, Lita, and does not know much about her past.  Kain and his brother Sam were "residents" of the boarding house that was run by Lita.  Each night when Arianna goes to sleep she dreams of this amazing boy, whose become her friend, Tristan. Then all three of their worlds collide together.  Arianna is not sure what is truly going on.  Then she has a "vision" and her life and past are coming to light.

Arianna then must decide who she does trust because she needs to save herself.  

Sounds confusing?!? Well, Keira writes it was better than I can tell it.  This book was an intense read.  I read this book quickly because I did not want to put it down.

Plus I cannot decide if I am Team Tristan or Team Kain .........

Not so great about the book:  WHAT A CLIFFHANGER?!?!?!?!?! The last few chapters were full of twist and turns.  Couple of situations I did not even see coming!  Now I have to wait for book 2.

Trust me when I say, PURCHASE THIS BOOK:

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Sweet Oblivion by Bailey Ardisone

Goodreads description:


sweet adjective ˈswēt a : pleasing to the mind or feelings : AGREEABLE, GRATIFYING - often used as a generalized term of approval

obliv·i·on noun ə-ˈbli-vē-ən, ō-, ä- 1: the fact or condition of forgetting or having forgotten; esp : the condition of being oblivious 2: the condition or state of being forgotten or unknown

Have you ever wanted to forget? Nariella Woodlinn has. Many times. Especially when her already frustrating life gets turned upside down by a mysterious boy who randomly shows up in her small town and she can’t seem to understand anything about him, despite how much she tries.
​Nari hates everything about her life except for her best friend Rydan, but now that they’ve been separated during their senior year of high school, she has to learn to make new friends without him. When strange unexplainable phenomenons start becoming an every day part of her life, Nari struggles to come to grips with reality. And with love.

Naminé has responsibilities. Duties. It is her obligation to fulfill all that is asked of her by their King. But when a glimmer of hope is introduced to her by a prisoner she tends to and it means life or death for her and her people, she does all that she can to turn that hope into reality and finally end the vicious war that has been ensuing since she was born. Even if that means keeping it secret from her King. Even if it means carrying out the biggest betrayal against the King ever seen during her time.

She has hope. She will fulfill her duty. She will not let her people down.

MARY'S REVIEW

I was contacted by the author to read this book and do a review.  It sounded good, so I thought "why not?" Here is the problem.............it wasn't good..............IT WAS FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Best Part of the book: Well, there are two stories that are happening and a lot of questions throughout.  However, this is why I kept reading.  I needed to know more! Nari is an orphan and lives with her foster dad, Ray (I don't like Ray).  She only has one friend, Rydan.  He is a musical wiz! However, starting her senior year in high school, Rydan is shipped off to a musical school and she is alone.  Not for long, 2 new students, Desmond and Zaylie.  Here is the awesome thing: they are Australian! Zaylie is Nari first real female friend and Desmond is hot and has an accent.

But, there is one person that I totally fell for in this book, Mycah.  He has an English and kind of appeared into Nari's life.  Nari has a pull to him. He is mysterious, strong, hot and has an English accent.  NEED I SAY ANY MORE THAN THAT!!!!!!!!!!!

On top of all that, this book is awesome! It keeps you wanting more.

Not so good about book:  CLIFFHANGER!! Bailey Ardisone drops a BOMB and now I have to wait for book 2.  *hangs head* But I want more NOW!

Well, I can say one thing, I will be counting the days till Book 2!!

You can purchase the book here: