I have up for grabs, one ARC copy of GLASS HEART by Amy Garvey. Details are posted below.
Rules:
13+
US Only
Ends September 8th
Only one entry per person.
Due to Rafflecopter failures and delays, I took the entries to Random.org and the winner is: Heather House.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Friday, August 31, 2024
Thursday, August 30, 2024
Review: Girl of Nightmares by Kendare Blake
Girl of Nightmares
by Kendare Blake
Published by: Tor Teen
Released on: August 7th, 2012
Hardcover
332 Pages
Rating: 4/5
The second book in a dualogy, Girl of Nightmares delivers major action, anticipation, and a mysteriousness that many others seem to lack. I fell deeply in love with Anna Dressed in Blood and although Girl of Nightmares wasn't quite what I had expected, it still delivered a major punch of awesome. I love Kendare's work which seems to be very different from what's out there currently.
The ending of Anna Dressed in Blood left Cas with major pieces to pick up. Even with his losses, I felt he did quite well given the circumstances and wouldn't blame him one bit if he had decided to walk away from it all. Yet, it's not in Cas to just give up and over time he must get back in the groove of things. Now with Caramel (nagging along the way) and Thomas by his side, Cas sets out to conquer those pesky ghosts that choose to kill. In doing his normal routine, Anna keeps appearing to him. Only he can see her and he is convinced that she must need his help. In trying to get answers, it seems as though people know things, but aren't revealing their secrets. They all believe it to be best to leave it all alone. Cas just can't do that. Anna still means so much to him. In his journey to save her, he runs into things he never would've imagined. It has now become his worst nightmare as he finds out the truth about his family. In doing this, it risks his own life. Is it really worth it?
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
by Kendare Blake
Published by: Tor Teen
Released on: August 7th, 2012
Hardcover
332 Pages
Rating: 4/5
The second book in a dualogy, Girl of Nightmares delivers major action, anticipation, and a mysteriousness that many others seem to lack. I fell deeply in love with Anna Dressed in Blood and although Girl of Nightmares wasn't quite what I had expected, it still delivered a major punch of awesome. I love Kendare's work which seems to be very different from what's out there currently.
The ending of Anna Dressed in Blood left Cas with major pieces to pick up. Even with his losses, I felt he did quite well given the circumstances and wouldn't blame him one bit if he had decided to walk away from it all. Yet, it's not in Cas to just give up and over time he must get back in the groove of things. Now with Caramel (nagging along the way) and Thomas by his side, Cas sets out to conquer those pesky ghosts that choose to kill. In doing his normal routine, Anna keeps appearing to him. Only he can see her and he is convinced that she must need his help. In trying to get answers, it seems as though people know things, but aren't revealing their secrets. They all believe it to be best to leave it all alone. Cas just can't do that. Anna still means so much to him. In his journey to save her, he runs into things he never would've imagined. It has now become his worst nightmare as he finds out the truth about his family. In doing this, it risks his own life. Is it really worth it?
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
Wednesday, August 29, 2024
Summer Wrap-Up Read-A-Thon Mixer Challenge
Thank you for stopping by the blog and checking in to see what I have to offer up as the Summer is coming closer to it's ending days. During the Summer Wrap-Up Read-A-Thon, I am wanting to know what your favorite summertime drinks and/or recipes are. I am a HUGE fan of lemonade BUT you can't give me just any ol' kind. I have to have my lemonade very strong, sour and sweet! Simply Lemonade is my favorite! Heck, I love anything lemon!
Now for the challenge...
Name that drink!
Enter Here
Now for the challenge...
Name that drink!
What's up for grabs?
THIS:
Open to everyone participating in the Readathon.
The winner will be determined by who guesses the most right. If there are several, I will take all winning participants and let random.org decide.
Ends August 15th
NO CHEATING.
You can only enter once.
Winner is...
Doodle
1. Mai-tai
2. chocolate milkshake
3. Strawberry Daquiri
4. Tea
5. Margerita
6. Shirley Temple
7. Iced Coffee
8. Root Beer Float
9. Red Wine
10. Cappuccino
11. Beer
12. Orange Soda
Tuesday, August 28, 2024
Review: Ghost Medicine by Andrew Smith
Ghost Medicine
by Andrew Smith
Published by: Feiwel and Friends
Released On: September 2nd 2008
Paperback
357 Pages
Rating: 5/5
At the very beginning stages of Ghost Medicine I could tell that Andrew Smith had different intentions than many other authors out there. Andrew has a very interesting and unique style that captures this story so beautifully, yet at the same time towards the end, he had me so furious that I was ready to throw this very same book at him. He has an ability to hold his readers captive quite well and I applaud him greatly for that.
Troy Stotts is indeed a great character. His mother passed away from cancer, his brother died a tragic death. It is now only him and his father. They make a great team, just a bit lonely with the others gone. Troy has a huge heart for horses. A country kid at heart, tried and true. I loved the idea of this. And with his best friends by his side, Troy, Tom, and Gabe set out for an unforgettable journey they never intended to take. We get to see the soft side of Troy and his feelings for Luz, and how two boys make all the difference to and old woman. One person can make such a huge impact on so many different things. In Ghost Medicine, we see this in so many ways. My heart wrapped around so many lovely characters, only to be broken by the sad and most memorable storyline. I found characters I couldn't tolerate well, only to see myself flipping and seeing a new side, only to fall in love yet again with another hero. And although there is a hero lying inside of Ghost Medicine, there is far more damage done. Damage I never expected.
Received from Lady Reader's Bookstuff
by Andrew Smith
Published by: Feiwel and Friends
Released On: September 2nd 2008
Paperback
357 Pages
Rating: 5/5
At the very beginning stages of Ghost Medicine I could tell that Andrew Smith had different intentions than many other authors out there. Andrew has a very interesting and unique style that captures this story so beautifully, yet at the same time towards the end, he had me so furious that I was ready to throw this very same book at him. He has an ability to hold his readers captive quite well and I applaud him greatly for that.
Troy Stotts is indeed a great character. His mother passed away from cancer, his brother died a tragic death. It is now only him and his father. They make a great team, just a bit lonely with the others gone. Troy has a huge heart for horses. A country kid at heart, tried and true. I loved the idea of this. And with his best friends by his side, Troy, Tom, and Gabe set out for an unforgettable journey they never intended to take. We get to see the soft side of Troy and his feelings for Luz, and how two boys make all the difference to and old woman. One person can make such a huge impact on so many different things. In Ghost Medicine, we see this in so many ways. My heart wrapped around so many lovely characters, only to be broken by the sad and most memorable storyline. I found characters I couldn't tolerate well, only to see myself flipping and seeing a new side, only to fall in love yet again with another hero. And although there is a hero lying inside of Ghost Medicine, there is far more damage done. Damage I never expected.
Received from Lady Reader's Bookstuff
Monday, August 27, 2024
Have you seen it??? Butterfly Kisses Cover Reveal
I eagerly await the next novel by Mia Castile. Butterfly Kisses is the second book, following Becoming a Butterfly. It is set to be released on October 23rd and you can view the trailer at Mia's blog. If you are interested in reviewing Butterfly Kisses or would like to join in the blog tour, please contact me at jodie@entwinedpublishing.com. The tour will take place in October. Becoming a Butterfly is now available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble in paperback and ebook formats.
Friday, August 24, 2024
Review: I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
I am Number Four
by Pittacus Lore
Published by: Harper
Released on: August 3rd, 2010
Paperback
440 Pages
Rating: 5/5
Of course I have seen the movie to this marvelous book but nothing is like the real deal. So much more can go on in your mind, so many more creations and ideas we can draw from with a book. I absolutely adored this book and am dying inside to get to the next one in the series. Pittacus is pure genius when it comes to storytelling.
Right from the start, we know that Mogadorians are desperately hunting the nine children that came to Earth. These nine children obviously aren't like regular children if they came to Earth, but look just like them. Each of these nine children will have their own unique set of skills begin to develop around their teenage years. Unfortunately, the Mogadorians have already captured and killed three. There are now only six left.
We meet Henri, who so happens to be the caretaker of adolescent Number Four. Every time they move, a new name is created. Number Four now goes by the highly common and ever so plain name of John Smith. Henri has made it clear to John that he always has to stay hidden, under the radar, and inconspicuous. They have made it this far, so things must be going fairly well.
I can't say that I blame John for getting tired of constantly moving from one place to the next. Never being able to get settled down can't be an easy life. So when John decides to make a friend, and an enemy or two in Paradise Ohio, it seems normal for him. Sarah is such a sweetheart and Sam is so amazing to John. Unfortunately, in making friends, enemies, and some sort of a fairly permanent home life, it has brought unwanted attention. John not only has to keep his friends safe, he also has to learn how to adapt to his new skills and prepare for the worst. Even if it may include death.
Received for review purposed from the publisher.
by Pittacus Lore
Published by: Harper
Released on: August 3rd, 2010
Paperback
440 Pages
Rating: 5/5
Of course I have seen the movie to this marvelous book but nothing is like the real deal. So much more can go on in your mind, so many more creations and ideas we can draw from with a book. I absolutely adored this book and am dying inside to get to the next one in the series. Pittacus is pure genius when it comes to storytelling.
Right from the start, we know that Mogadorians are desperately hunting the nine children that came to Earth. These nine children obviously aren't like regular children if they came to Earth, but look just like them. Each of these nine children will have their own unique set of skills begin to develop around their teenage years. Unfortunately, the Mogadorians have already captured and killed three. There are now only six left.
We meet Henri, who so happens to be the caretaker of adolescent Number Four. Every time they move, a new name is created. Number Four now goes by the highly common and ever so plain name of John Smith. Henri has made it clear to John that he always has to stay hidden, under the radar, and inconspicuous. They have made it this far, so things must be going fairly well.
I can't say that I blame John for getting tired of constantly moving from one place to the next. Never being able to get settled down can't be an easy life. So when John decides to make a friend, and an enemy or two in Paradise Ohio, it seems normal for him. Sarah is such a sweetheart and Sam is so amazing to John. Unfortunately, in making friends, enemies, and some sort of a fairly permanent home life, it has brought unwanted attention. John not only has to keep his friends safe, he also has to learn how to adapt to his new skills and prepare for the worst. Even if it may include death.
Received for review purposed from the publisher.
Thursday, August 23, 2024
Author Interview w/ Lorin Barber
Hi all! Toady I have a crazy fun interview with Lorin Barber. Lorin is the author of The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow. Lorin Barber has an MBA from the University of Washington and a bachelor’s degree in Japanese Language. He has had a successful career in Manufacturing Management, travelled the world in business assignments and run his own company. He has six children and so far eight grandchildren. He lives in a small town outside of Seattle with his wife of 38 years. In his spare time you might find him panning for gold in the wilds of Washington State.
1. What is something about yourself that most people don't know?
Most people don’t know me, but even those that do don’t know that Mary Poppins is one of my favorite movies.
2. How did you come up with the very unique name of Copernicus?
Copernicus came naturally as I searched my mind for a name indicating intellect. The last name Stringfellow I saw on a panel inside a bus. It sounded great with Copernicus and it defined him well as a tall skinny geeky person.
3. Why Twinkies? Why not green beans? (Although, I'm totally not knocking twinkies)
I chose Twinkies as a concentration enhancer because I’ve heard their nutritional value disparaged all of my life and wanted to battle back against such blatant discrimination.
4. Favorite season?
I enjoy Autumn. I love the weather, the anticipation of the holidays and the back to work attitude of the general population.
5. Do you prefer a hero or a villain?
I only enjoy villains when they are the type in Home Alone, or The Roadrunner.
6. Comedy or Romance?
I don’t like gushy romances and I don’t comedies that don’t take romance seriously.
7. What book are you reading now?
I’m currently reading a whodunit “212”. I got it free for my Nook when I bought a couple of non-fiction books. Biographies of Roger Williams and Genghis Khan. I finished those first.
8. What book has stuck with you the most?
Without question the fictional work that is my favorite is “Life Expectancy” by Dean Koontz. I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying it. I’ve read it 4 times so far.
9. If you could have any superpower of your choice, what would you choose?
Being the sneaky type the super power I’d like most would be invisibility.
About Lorin Barber:
I began writing “Copernicus” during a period of unemployment in 2004. I got re-employed then inherited a construction related business which went under during the recession in 2010. With a lot of free time on my hands again I was able to finish and have accepted for publishing the manuscript for “The Secret Life”.
I’m now working, though greatly under-employed and am hoping that success with “The Secret Life” will allow me to quit my day job and finish a sequel that I have begun as well as several others in a series about “Copernicus”.
1. What is something about yourself that most people don't know?
Most people don’t know me, but even those that do don’t know that Mary Poppins is one of my favorite movies.
2. How did you come up with the very unique name of Copernicus?
Copernicus came naturally as I searched my mind for a name indicating intellect. The last name Stringfellow I saw on a panel inside a bus. It sounded great with Copernicus and it defined him well as a tall skinny geeky person.
3. Why Twinkies? Why not green beans? (Although, I'm totally not knocking twinkies)
I chose Twinkies as a concentration enhancer because I’ve heard their nutritional value disparaged all of my life and wanted to battle back against such blatant discrimination.
4. Favorite season?
I enjoy Autumn. I love the weather, the anticipation of the holidays and the back to work attitude of the general population.
5. Do you prefer a hero or a villain?
I only enjoy villains when they are the type in Home Alone, or The Roadrunner.
6. Comedy or Romance?
I don’t like gushy romances and I don’t comedies that don’t take romance seriously.
7. What book are you reading now?
I’m currently reading a whodunit “212”. I got it free for my Nook when I bought a couple of non-fiction books. Biographies of Roger Williams and Genghis Khan. I finished those first.
8. What book has stuck with you the most?
Without question the fictional work that is my favorite is “Life Expectancy” by Dean Koontz. I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying it. I’ve read it 4 times so far.
9. If you could have any superpower of your choice, what would you choose?
Being the sneaky type the super power I’d like most would be invisibility.
About Lorin Barber:
I began writing “Copernicus” during a period of unemployment in 2004. I got re-employed then inherited a construction related business which went under during the recession in 2010. With a lot of free time on my hands again I was able to finish and have accepted for publishing the manuscript for “The Secret Life”.
I’m now working, though greatly under-employed and am hoping that success with “The Secret Life” will allow me to quit my day job and finish a sequel that I have begun as well as several others in a series about “Copernicus”.
Wednesday, August 22, 2024
Review: Blackwood by Gwenda Bond
Blackwood
by Gwenda Bond
Published by: Strange Chemistry
Released on: September 4th, 2012
Paperback
324 Pages
Rating: 3/5
*Please note, this review was based from an ARC*
As I began reading Blackwood and learning about a young girl by the name of Miranda, I couldn't help but be intrigued by her and the town that she lived in. It was as if everyone knew of the hidden secrets and it was up to them if they chose to believe them or not. I suppose all small towns have their own mysteries and tales over the years, being passed down from generation to generation but this seemed different. This seemed odd and even a little frightening.
Miranda's father is known for being a drunk and rather useless and mother had passed away when she was quite young. So when her father didn't come home one night, she had passed it off to a drunken stupor. When awakening the next morning, she had found that not only was he missing, but numerous townspeople had disappeared along with him. It was as if the legends and stories had come back to life. The Lost Colony. Roanoke. It was as if it were all happening again. This left me with nothing but eagerness and dread to find out what happened to so many people and how they could just vanish into the night.
Over time, as the story unfolded I found it a bit confusing and hard to hold interest. The people had ended up reappearing as if it had never happened. But things still weren't quite right. Poor Miranda's father was gone though. Never to return. Things needed to be figured out, and the police of the town weren't there to help in any way at all. It was all piled on Miranda's shoulders. It was all up to her.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
by Gwenda Bond
Published by: Strange Chemistry
Released on: September 4th, 2012
Paperback
324 Pages
Rating: 3/5
*Please note, this review was based from an ARC*
As I began reading Blackwood and learning about a young girl by the name of Miranda, I couldn't help but be intrigued by her and the town that she lived in. It was as if everyone knew of the hidden secrets and it was up to them if they chose to believe them or not. I suppose all small towns have their own mysteries and tales over the years, being passed down from generation to generation but this seemed different. This seemed odd and even a little frightening.
Miranda's father is known for being a drunk and rather useless and mother had passed away when she was quite young. So when her father didn't come home one night, she had passed it off to a drunken stupor. When awakening the next morning, she had found that not only was he missing, but numerous townspeople had disappeared along with him. It was as if the legends and stories had come back to life. The Lost Colony. Roanoke. It was as if it were all happening again. This left me with nothing but eagerness and dread to find out what happened to so many people and how they could just vanish into the night.
Over time, as the story unfolded I found it a bit confusing and hard to hold interest. The people had ended up reappearing as if it had never happened. But things still weren't quite right. Poor Miranda's father was gone though. Never to return. Things needed to be figured out, and the police of the town weren't there to help in any way at all. It was all piled on Miranda's shoulders. It was all up to her.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
Tuesday, August 21, 2024
Giveaway: Pledged by Gwynneth White
Hi all! I want to share with you, the opportunity to own your very own ecopy of Pledged! First, I want to share with you an excerpt from the book.
Excerpt:
Jared nodded at Sophia and Kezeah without any sign of recognition. With two of his Pledged up front and two at their rear, he marched them down the corridor to a flight of stairs. Once at the bottom, he ducked beneath an archway, opening onto to a gloomy, narrow tunnel. Erin, never keen on dark, claustrophobic spaces, took a deep breath and paused.
“C’mon,” Seth said. “The sooner we walk through it, the quicker we get to the other side.”
“What happens if what’s on the other side is even worse?”
“Then you’ll know for sure that the dead guys are leading this expedition,” Seth said, wanting to deny the painful burning in his heart that reconnected him with a cursed Jared. He grabbed Erin’s arm and pulled her into the passage.
They’d taken no more than two tentative steps along the uneven floor when Sophia stopped. “Commander, I am not walking through this snake-hole!”
Jared turned back to look at her. With none of the fear or diffidence Erin and Seth expected from a boy with limited to exposure to girls - especially beautiful ones - he answered, “Of course, my lady. You’re from Norin, where I understand you live in grass huts.” He gave a sardonic smile. “But don’t despair, you’ll soon get used to bricks. Even our own Outcasts have learnt not to flinch at the sight of them.” He continued down the passage.
Seth’s mouth dropped at Jared’s rudeness; this was so foreign to the Jared he had seen just moments ago in his vision. It just added to his anger at Reuel’s Curse.
The Pledged at Sophia’s rear prodded her back; she gave him a fierce look and started walking.
For Seth and Sophia, both taller than Erin and Kezeah, negotiating the tortuous twists and turns of the tunnel was no easy matter. Stooping, cursing each time they bumped their heads on the rough ceiling, they struggled after Jared, but he kept up the merciless pace until they reached a dark staircase.
Her temper now as short as her breath, Sophia stopped walking and locked her arms across her chest. “Having just cracked my skull open, you now expect me to scramble up those treacherous stairs too. No doubt hoping I’ll fall and break my neck. Well, forget it. I’m not moving.”
“Sophia!” Kezeah whispered, jabbing her in the ribs as she stepped gingerly onto the first narrow step.
Sophia ignored her. “Only savages and rats live in places like this.”
Jared’s eyes narrowed. “Savages and rats, you say, my lady?”
Sophia set her face into a cold stare, locking her hypnotic blue eyes on his.
He surprised her by holding her gaze. “I hate to disappoint you, my lady, but Lord Rustus, Lord of the Household, under the direction of the Overlord himself, has chosen your apartment. Surely you don’t question their judgment in this matter?”
“As a matter of fact, I do.”
“In that case, I’ll gladly pass on your concerns. If that’s what you really want.”
“Enough, Sophia. This isn’t a fight you can win.” Sophia’s Guardian had joined them.
Excerpt:
Jared nodded at Sophia and Kezeah without any sign of recognition. With two of his Pledged up front and two at their rear, he marched them down the corridor to a flight of stairs. Once at the bottom, he ducked beneath an archway, opening onto to a gloomy, narrow tunnel. Erin, never keen on dark, claustrophobic spaces, took a deep breath and paused.
“C’mon,” Seth said. “The sooner we walk through it, the quicker we get to the other side.”
“What happens if what’s on the other side is even worse?”
“Then you’ll know for sure that the dead guys are leading this expedition,” Seth said, wanting to deny the painful burning in his heart that reconnected him with a cursed Jared. He grabbed Erin’s arm and pulled her into the passage.
They’d taken no more than two tentative steps along the uneven floor when Sophia stopped. “Commander, I am not walking through this snake-hole!”
Jared turned back to look at her. With none of the fear or diffidence Erin and Seth expected from a boy with limited to exposure to girls - especially beautiful ones - he answered, “Of course, my lady. You’re from Norin, where I understand you live in grass huts.” He gave a sardonic smile. “But don’t despair, you’ll soon get used to bricks. Even our own Outcasts have learnt not to flinch at the sight of them.” He continued down the passage.
Seth’s mouth dropped at Jared’s rudeness; this was so foreign to the Jared he had seen just moments ago in his vision. It just added to his anger at Reuel’s Curse.
The Pledged at Sophia’s rear prodded her back; she gave him a fierce look and started walking.
For Seth and Sophia, both taller than Erin and Kezeah, negotiating the tortuous twists and turns of the tunnel was no easy matter. Stooping, cursing each time they bumped their heads on the rough ceiling, they struggled after Jared, but he kept up the merciless pace until they reached a dark staircase.
Her temper now as short as her breath, Sophia stopped walking and locked her arms across her chest. “Having just cracked my skull open, you now expect me to scramble up those treacherous stairs too. No doubt hoping I’ll fall and break my neck. Well, forget it. I’m not moving.”
“Sophia!” Kezeah whispered, jabbing her in the ribs as she stepped gingerly onto the first narrow step.
Sophia ignored her. “Only savages and rats live in places like this.”
Jared’s eyes narrowed. “Savages and rats, you say, my lady?”
Sophia set her face into a cold stare, locking her hypnotic blue eyes on his.
He surprised her by holding her gaze. “I hate to disappoint you, my lady, but Lord Rustus, Lord of the Household, under the direction of the Overlord himself, has chosen your apartment. Surely you don’t question their judgment in this matter?”
“As a matter of fact, I do.”
“In that case, I’ll gladly pass on your concerns. If that’s what you really want.”
“Enough, Sophia. This isn’t a fight you can win.” Sophia’s Guardian had joined them.
To enter:
Open to everyone 13+
Open to everyone 13+
Ends August 28th
Monday, August 20, 2024
Review: Carnival Girl by Sonja Herbert
Carnival Girl
by Sonja Herbert
Published by: Cedar Fort
Released on: June 12th, 2012
Paperback
205 Pages
Rating: 4/5
First, let me start of by saying that Carnival Girl is a memoir. I think in knowing this, it made the story a little more personal to me. Carnival Girl takes place on the road, with many different stops in between. Just the sound of being a carnie might sound like a fun and frivolous adventure for some, but that certainly isn't the case for a family life.
Sonja first explains that her mother (Mutti) had to stay hidden and out of the way from the war and all the negative things that unfortunately came with being a Jew at that time. Mutti was a strong woman, regardless and although I can't say that I always agreed with her parenting skills, she had a backbone that would break concrete and took care of all her children well.
As I read into the childhood of Sonja and her life of traveling in a caravan, no heat, and just enough food to make it at times, then to find out about her and her siblings jumping in and out of schools so they could continue traveling while maintaining some sort of normalcy, not to mention having to work in the carnival themselves, only left me with an open heart of love for her. Sonja, being as young as she was, was introduced to God and at times, when things got almost unbearable for her, would turn to prayer. And sometimes, that's all you can do. I praise her and applaud this woman. Carnival Girl is a story of heartache and hope.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
by Sonja Herbert
Published by: Cedar Fort
Released on: June 12th, 2012
Paperback
205 Pages
Rating: 4/5
First, let me start of by saying that Carnival Girl is a memoir. I think in knowing this, it made the story a little more personal to me. Carnival Girl takes place on the road, with many different stops in between. Just the sound of being a carnie might sound like a fun and frivolous adventure for some, but that certainly isn't the case for a family life.
Sonja first explains that her mother (Mutti) had to stay hidden and out of the way from the war and all the negative things that unfortunately came with being a Jew at that time. Mutti was a strong woman, regardless and although I can't say that I always agreed with her parenting skills, she had a backbone that would break concrete and took care of all her children well.
As I read into the childhood of Sonja and her life of traveling in a caravan, no heat, and just enough food to make it at times, then to find out about her and her siblings jumping in and out of schools so they could continue traveling while maintaining some sort of normalcy, not to mention having to work in the carnival themselves, only left me with an open heart of love for her. Sonja, being as young as she was, was introduced to God and at times, when things got almost unbearable for her, would turn to prayer. And sometimes, that's all you can do. I praise her and applaud this woman. Carnival Girl is a story of heartache and hope.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
Saturday, August 18, 2024
Released Today: Thief Price by Cheree Alsop
Hello all, I wanted to share with you, the new release of Cheree Alsop's newest arrival, Thief Prince.
You can find out more about Cheree and her novels at her website.
When her brother’s sickness forces Kit to accept the title of heir to her kingdom’s crown, she is outcast by the others and treated as inferior; but when she is forced along with the other heirs on a dangerous journey, her differences turn into strengths that may save their lives. Kit is tested both mentally and physically as she faces odds both on the battlefield and within the royal social circles. She soon realizes that her greatest challenge may be to return home with her heart in one piece.Thief Prince is a story of courage in the face of fear, and of love despite overwhelming odds. Whether you are looking for an adventure or the chance to see kingdoms beyond your world, Thief Prince is the story to sweep you away.
You can find out more about Cheree and her novels at her website.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Friday, August 17, 2024
Review: Perfect Escape by Jennifer Brown
Perfect Escape
by Jennifer Brown
Published by: Little, Brown and Company
Released on: July 10th, 2012
Hardcover
364 Pages
Rating: 4/5
This is my first novel that I have read by Jennifer Brown and it leaves me with the strong desire to find her other novels and bury myself deep into them. Perfect Escape first caught my attention due to the fact that it deals with the main characters brother having OCD and how she struggles to deal with it. I have a close family member who struggles with OCD and refuses to take medicine. It isn't easy dealing with someone with this disorder. It makes it hard for the people around them, and I can't even begin to fathom just what is going on in their heads, along with their own inner battles. This is what brought me to Perfect Escape.
Although Kendra's older brother Grayson is remarkably intelligent and everyone thought he was really going to amount to something when he got older, it has now fallen on Kendra's shoulders to hold up that high image of 'the perfect child'. When Grayson started showing odd and impulsive behavior, everyone had either ignored him, or hoped it would disappear. Yet, that was only the beginning. Kendra now feels as if she is living in the shadows of her older brother while struggling to keep sane and watch over him when he is home.
It's when Kendra is yet again, dealing with Grayson's rock fetish that she has the sudden and crazy idea that she can help him in a way that nobody else has. And as they set out to accomplish this feat, the open road leads to far more than either of them could have ever imagined.
In the end, I loved the bonding that they had shared together. I loved how Grayson was able to do far more with his sister than his ever hovering mother. But in the end, you can't make anyone do something that you want them to. I do wish there would've been more to the ending, possibly a chapter that took place three months later, but a beautifully captured story none the less.
Received for review purposes.
by Jennifer Brown
Published by: Little, Brown and Company
Released on: July 10th, 2012
Hardcover
364 Pages
Rating: 4/5
This is my first novel that I have read by Jennifer Brown and it leaves me with the strong desire to find her other novels and bury myself deep into them. Perfect Escape first caught my attention due to the fact that it deals with the main characters brother having OCD and how she struggles to deal with it. I have a close family member who struggles with OCD and refuses to take medicine. It isn't easy dealing with someone with this disorder. It makes it hard for the people around them, and I can't even begin to fathom just what is going on in their heads, along with their own inner battles. This is what brought me to Perfect Escape.
Although Kendra's older brother Grayson is remarkably intelligent and everyone thought he was really going to amount to something when he got older, it has now fallen on Kendra's shoulders to hold up that high image of 'the perfect child'. When Grayson started showing odd and impulsive behavior, everyone had either ignored him, or hoped it would disappear. Yet, that was only the beginning. Kendra now feels as if she is living in the shadows of her older brother while struggling to keep sane and watch over him when he is home.
It's when Kendra is yet again, dealing with Grayson's rock fetish that she has the sudden and crazy idea that she can help him in a way that nobody else has. And as they set out to accomplish this feat, the open road leads to far more than either of them could have ever imagined.
In the end, I loved the bonding that they had shared together. I loved how Grayson was able to do far more with his sister than his ever hovering mother. But in the end, you can't make anyone do something that you want them to. I do wish there would've been more to the ending, possibly a chapter that took place three months later, but a beautifully captured story none the less.
Received for review purposes.
Thursday, August 16, 2024
Blog Tour: The Brown House by Christy Sloat and giveaway
Hello lovelies. Today I have a Blog Tour stop and guest post from Christy Sloat. She is the author of The Brown House. Christy Sloat is a Southern California native who now lives in New Jersey with her husband and two daughters. She believes that reading is a passion and it should be embraced. If she is not reading or writing she is cooking or spending quality time with her children.She believes in past lives and love that can last lifetimes. She is huge Stephenie Meyer and J.K. Rowling fan. Some of her favorite vacation spots are Maine, Massachusetts and California.
How I got the idea for The Brown House
I made the move from California to New Jersey when I was 23. My family moved here first and I came later. I loved it instantly. The trees and nature was something I couldn’t get enough of. I met my husband a year later. In our ‘dating’ life he always told me about the house he grew up in and he referred to it as ‘the brown house’. I learned that they called it that due the the brown exterior of the house.
Now all of the stories he told me were shockingly scary and spooky. I sometimes thought of it as an over exaggeration or maybe a child’s imagination going wild. Except when other family members started telling me the same stories and their own experiences. That is when I started to believe this house was really haunted.
I live not far from the house as it still stands today. The house had been in my husband’s family for almost 100 years. Now it is owned by another family.
Most of the stories my husband told me were of chairs moving by themselves, things moving on their own and typical creepy stuff. The one thing that scared me the most was the story he told me of the door to the corner room. He found keys to that room and when he tried to unlock it the handle jiggled from the inside. It gave me chills for a long while. Another good tale was about his dog being locked into the pantry while the kids were outside playing. Or even how all the smoke detectors had been taking down and put in the freezer in the basement.
All in all the tales of the brown house were scary and typical of a haunted home. One night we were discussing it in further detail and I grabbed my notebook and started writing things down. He drew me an outline of the home so that I knew what it looked like inside. I have yet to step foot in the house but have driven past it many times.
I took the stories added a plotline and a backstory. Now you have the book. Some of the experiences my character, Brylee, has are true. Some made up by me. It is a perfect book to read when you need a scare. But don’t be fooled it is not all ghosts and frights there is more to the story and the characters. There is also a blossoming love story that unfolds.
Over all I am really proud of this story and how it came out. I hope you like it too.
Some secrets should never be revealed…
Brylee Branson begrudgingly made the excruciating move with her family from the warm sandy beaches of California to small town living in New Jersey. As if she wasn’t miserable enough, they’ve moved into a creepy old house that everyone in the area claims is haunted. Brylee dismisses the idea of ghosts and hauntings, until she begins to see and hear things that can’t be explained…
Brylee has no choice but to seek the help of new friends to unlock the secrets of this place she now calls home. But some secrets should never be revealed. Can the teens find a way to release the spirits imprisoned within the walls? Or will the curse claim them, too?
Available for purchase at Amazon.
You can also find Christy at her:
Blog
Facebook
Weebly
Goodreads
Twitter
Now, let's not forget a giveaway!
How I got the idea for The Brown House
I made the move from California to New Jersey when I was 23. My family moved here first and I came later. I loved it instantly. The trees and nature was something I couldn’t get enough of. I met my husband a year later. In our ‘dating’ life he always told me about the house he grew up in and he referred to it as ‘the brown house’. I learned that they called it that due the the brown exterior of the house.
Now all of the stories he told me were shockingly scary and spooky. I sometimes thought of it as an over exaggeration or maybe a child’s imagination going wild. Except when other family members started telling me the same stories and their own experiences. That is when I started to believe this house was really haunted.
I live not far from the house as it still stands today. The house had been in my husband’s family for almost 100 years. Now it is owned by another family.
Most of the stories my husband told me were of chairs moving by themselves, things moving on their own and typical creepy stuff. The one thing that scared me the most was the story he told me of the door to the corner room. He found keys to that room and when he tried to unlock it the handle jiggled from the inside. It gave me chills for a long while. Another good tale was about his dog being locked into the pantry while the kids were outside playing. Or even how all the smoke detectors had been taking down and put in the freezer in the basement.
All in all the tales of the brown house were scary and typical of a haunted home. One night we were discussing it in further detail and I grabbed my notebook and started writing things down. He drew me an outline of the home so that I knew what it looked like inside. I have yet to step foot in the house but have driven past it many times.
I took the stories added a plotline and a backstory. Now you have the book. Some of the experiences my character, Brylee, has are true. Some made up by me. It is a perfect book to read when you need a scare. But don’t be fooled it is not all ghosts and frights there is more to the story and the characters. There is also a blossoming love story that unfolds.
Over all I am really proud of this story and how it came out. I hope you like it too.
Some secrets should never be revealed…
Brylee Branson begrudgingly made the excruciating move with her family from the warm sandy beaches of California to small town living in New Jersey. As if she wasn’t miserable enough, they’ve moved into a creepy old house that everyone in the area claims is haunted. Brylee dismisses the idea of ghosts and hauntings, until she begins to see and hear things that can’t be explained…
Brylee has no choice but to seek the help of new friends to unlock the secrets of this place she now calls home. But some secrets should never be revealed. Can the teens find a way to release the spirits imprisoned within the walls? Or will the curse claim them, too?
Available for purchase at Amazon.
You can also find Christy at her:
Blog
Weebly
Goodreads
Now, let's not forget a giveaway!
Cover Reveal: Wicked Sense by Fabio Bueno
Today is the release of the remarkably beautiful cover of Wicked Sense by Fabio Bueno. Now before we just to that breathtaking cover, allow me to share more about the book.
Witches inhabit our world, organized in covens and hiding behind a shroud of secrecy— the Veil.
Skye’s London coven sends her to Seattle’s Greenwood High to find the Singularity, an unusually gifted witch who may break the Veil and trigger a dangerous new era of witch-hunting. Things get complicated when Skye meets a charming new classmate, Drake. Skye’s job becomes even trickier when she clashes with Jane, an intimidating rival witch.
Drake falls for the mysterious Skye, but odd accidents, potion mix-ups, and the occasional brush with death kind of get in the way of romance. Once he discovers Skye is a witch, he goes to war for her, even though his only weapons are a nice set of abs and a sharp sense of humor.
Fighting off wicked Jane and the other dark forces hell-bent on seizing the Singularity's immense power, Skye and Drake will risk everything to save the covens.
Going on a date has never been harder.
And
Now...
That cover...
Available at
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Wednesday, August 15, 2024
Review: Endlessly by Kiersten White
Endlessly
by Kiersten White
Published by: Harper Teen
Released on: July 24th, 2012
Hardcover
400 Pages
Rating: 5/5
*Please note this review was based from an ARC*
All good things come to an end, and when it came to the last few chapters of Endlessly, I was so wrought over Evie and all that she had been through and what was going to happen in the end. Kiersten White has given us a remarkable series that I have fell in love with. I will carry Evie and Lend in my heart forever. Such a great and perfect couple. Two supernaturals, born into this world not knowing just what their lives and power would mean to so many.
At the moment, all is fine and well for Evie. That is, until she hears that her powers are wanted to be used in such a way that she absolutely refuses. I can't say I blame the girl either. What is being asked of her, could potentially kill her. And, technically, she doesn't even know how to perform what is being asked. Just how is she supposed to release supernaturals from some hold that has been put on them all this time anyway? And why does it always seem to be left up to her? But time will tell all, fey make their presence well known, and much needed hidden info is unveiled. Evie is kind at heart and although she did refuse, we all know that deep down, she has a heart of gold. It just scared me to think that her heart could lead her to her ultimate death. A perfect trilogy, a perfect love story, amazingly crazy supernaturals, and one touchingly talented author.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
by Kiersten White
Published by: Harper Teen
Released on: July 24th, 2012
Hardcover
400 Pages
Rating: 5/5
*Please note this review was based from an ARC*
All good things come to an end, and when it came to the last few chapters of Endlessly, I was so wrought over Evie and all that she had been through and what was going to happen in the end. Kiersten White has given us a remarkable series that I have fell in love with. I will carry Evie and Lend in my heart forever. Such a great and perfect couple. Two supernaturals, born into this world not knowing just what their lives and power would mean to so many.
At the moment, all is fine and well for Evie. That is, until she hears that her powers are wanted to be used in such a way that she absolutely refuses. I can't say I blame the girl either. What is being asked of her, could potentially kill her. And, technically, she doesn't even know how to perform what is being asked. Just how is she supposed to release supernaturals from some hold that has been put on them all this time anyway? And why does it always seem to be left up to her? But time will tell all, fey make their presence well known, and much needed hidden info is unveiled. Evie is kind at heart and although she did refuse, we all know that deep down, she has a heart of gold. It just scared me to think that her heart could lead her to her ultimate death. A perfect trilogy, a perfect love story, amazingly crazy supernaturals, and one touchingly talented author.
Received for review purposes from the publisher.
Tuesday, August 7, 2024
Giveaway: JERSEY ANGEL by Beth Ann Bauman
One thing I can't do is hugely promote a book if I haven't read it. When I found out that I was accepted as an Ambuzzador for Random House I was thrilled, but to represent a book that I hadn't read yet? I was a bit nervous. Needless to say, after reading the book that I was chosen to represent, I was absolutely delighted to share it with you guys. Now, I'm sharing with you, the opportunity to get it yourselves. It is a perfect summer read! Very carefree, highly contagious, and a delight to read! If you haven't read my review yet, go check it out! I just can't say enough about how much I loved the main character and her easygoing attitude. Now for the giveaway details!
Enter Here
Two winners will win an ARC an a few extra goodies.
There will be one runner up that will receive a chapter sampler.
DETAILS:
You must be 16+
US only
Ends August 15th
Winners must respond within 48 hours.
First winner
stormy
Second winner
Sarah Bauman
Runner up
Lisa
Friday, August 3, 2024
The Progeny Series: Blood Bonds is now released
At its core, The Progeny is simply a story about a man and woman who fall in love, and the fact that he’s a half-blood (half-human, half vampire) and she’s a Wiccan human are secondary factors. When we meet Ascher, he’s grumpy. Frankly, who could blame him? He’s engaged to seal to Ursula—a cold and careless vampire who wants nothing more than to get her hands on a bloodstone— and he feels conflicted about his existence.
All of that changes when he meets Shawnette McCutchin. She’s beautiful, intriguing and possesses some of the most potent blood that he’s ever smelled. A war immediately begins inside Ascher. He craves Shauna’s blood just as much as he craves her body and the closer they get, the harder it is for him to control his urges. After Ascher calls off the sealing to Ursula, the trouble begins. His family’s peaceful period ends when Ursula’s army attacks the Rousseaus.
This series is about a family of which we’ve never seen before. They share a common mortal and immortal bloodline but loyalty is the thread that holds this clan together. Once you become a part of this family, the others will risk their lives to protect you. We see examples of this throughout the journey. There is no shortage of romance, steam and surprises in The Progeny Series but these books are for adults and contain adult sensuality, language and themes.
Book one of the Progeny Series—The Progeny—re-released on May 7, 2012. The “revamp” is a second edition full of extended scenes, new details and tighter editing. Book two—Blood Bonds—released July 14, 2012.
The Progeny Blurb (The Progeny Series #1)
“No fate other than the one I choose.”
The timeless creed, and tattoo, bore by the Rousseau’s— a vampire clan with the purest bloodline of any vampire family. Out of this clandestine group came one who was different, yet the same: Ascher-a half-bloodling— half- human, half vampire.
Ascher questions the purpose for his existence and which world he truly belongs to: the human world or the vampire world. Two months from sealing to Ursula— a prearranged union to a woman he abhors — he’s at his wit’s end. He knows if he calls off the sealing, the Romanian clan will strike with deadly force, but he cannot see eternity with a cold empty shell of a woman like Ursula.
Just when he thought life was complicated enough, he meets Shauna— a beautiful, bi-racial human Wiccan — and immediately develops an unshakable attraction to her. She makes him feel alive and vital despite his origins and Ascher makes a decision that turns his immortal world upside down.
Amazon Paperback | Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble
Blood Bonds Blurb (The Progeny Series #2)
“Forever. For always. For eternity.”
The ties that bind two hearts are powerful. For Ascher Rousseau and Shauna McCutchin, it’s more than just a blood bond. Their union is that of vampire legend. Their love is a predestined prophecy foretold centuries ago.
It’s a week before Ascher and Shauna's sealing and the couple is making final preparations for their eternity, but Ascher's ex has other plans. Ursula is hell-bent on revenge—revenge fueled by lover's scorn and her father's death—and she begins breeding a fresh army of newborn darklings to do her bidding.
When Ursula finds a new weapon—an ally with the capability to dismantle the Rousseau clan— Ascher and Shauna's bond is tested and they must stand together against Ursula or lose each other for eternity.
Amazon | Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble
Ashlynne Laynne has always had a soft spot in her heart for vampires but grew tired of the garlic fearing, sun-loathing creatures of old. An avid horror movie fan, she tends to enjoy media and music that is of a younger, more eclectic nature. This was the catalyst for her writing The Progeny. The vampire/witch pairing is unique and different when most books pair vampires with werewolves.
Ashlynne loves writing on the edge and teetering between the erotica and romance genres, and thinks of Ascher and Shauna as the wicked, damned version of Romeo and Juliet. She is currently working on books three and four of her Progeny Series, book one of her upcoming Rocker Series, and an untitled novella WIP. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading and spending time with her family. She juggles the hats of wife, mother, full time employee and part-time writer, hoping to write full time one day soon.
Ashlynne lives in North Carolina with her husband and teenage son.
Thursday, August 2, 2024
Review: Jersey Angel by Beth Ann Bauman
Jersey Angel
by Beth Ann Bauman
Published by: Wendy Lamb Books
Released on: May 8th, 2012
Hardcover
208 Pages
Rating 4/5
*Please note this review was based from an ARC*
Beth Ann Bauman has delivered such a perfect summer read, captivating an easy going attitude inside of the life of Angel Cassonetti. Living on the beaches, we get to see a perspective that although might not be easy for Angel at times, is very relaxing and incredibly care free. A perfect blend of all the right mixes in a young adult growing up on the beach, dealing with love, loss, and normal dysfunctional family issues that are so common these days. Jersey Angel has such a relaxed feel that I couldn't help but sink into, relate to in many ways from when I was growing up and just couldn't help but love this one.
We see Angel, who knows that she is care free and doesn't want to be tied down, go through the normality of her life as she deals with her routine breakup with her boyfriend. It's when he realizes that he's done with this same song and dance he doesn't want to participate in Angel's games anymore. Once she has realized that he's serious, yes, it does get to her and she does want him back, but the girl is hard and doesn't let it stop her. She picks herself up and walks strong. Nothing will stop her, and if she can play her cards right, with a little sneaking under the table, she can get what she wants (back) in due time. I definitely loved Jersey Angel but only recommend it to ages sixteen and above.
by Beth Ann Bauman
Published by: Wendy Lamb Books
Released on: May 8th, 2012
Hardcover
208 Pages
Rating 4/5
*Please note this review was based from an ARC*
Beth Ann Bauman has delivered such a perfect summer read, captivating an easy going attitude inside of the life of Angel Cassonetti. Living on the beaches, we get to see a perspective that although might not be easy for Angel at times, is very relaxing and incredibly care free. A perfect blend of all the right mixes in a young adult growing up on the beach, dealing with love, loss, and normal dysfunctional family issues that are so common these days. Jersey Angel has such a relaxed feel that I couldn't help but sink into, relate to in many ways from when I was growing up and just couldn't help but love this one.
We see Angel, who knows that she is care free and doesn't want to be tied down, go through the normality of her life as she deals with her routine breakup with her boyfriend. It's when he realizes that he's done with this same song and dance he doesn't want to participate in Angel's games anymore. Once she has realized that he's serious, yes, it does get to her and she does want him back, but the girl is hard and doesn't let it stop her. She picks herself up and walks strong. Nothing will stop her, and if she can play her cards right, with a little sneaking under the table, she can get what she wants (back) in due time. I definitely loved Jersey Angel but only recommend it to ages sixteen and above.
Wednesday, August 1, 2024
Author Interview w/ Kathryn Knutson
Hello all! I am very pleased to bring to you the author that I have today! I loved this interview and I hope you do as well. I had fun with it and it fits right along with her book. Her name is Kathryn Knutson and she is the author of (don't be scared guys) THE POSSESSION OF CASSIE QUINN.
Kathryn Knutson grew up on horror books and movies. She has been writing ghost stories since she was a child, in the hopes that one day, one of them would see the light of day. A real-live haunted house that she lived in was the inspiration for the setting of her first novel, The Possession of Cassie Quinn. Although the events in the novel are not true, she doesn't recommend playing with Ouija boards.
1.) Favorite scary movie? I am a sucker for zombies and vampires (the evil kind), so I love Resident Evil and 30 Days of Night. However, I think the best scary movie is The Grudge!
2.) Favorite villain? Count Dracula - both in the novel and the movie.
3.) Favorite ghost story? I loved the novel Wait 'Til Helen Comes as a child, and I still like reading it as an adult. The water scene at the end is scary!
4.) Can you share with us a time you got seriously spooked?
That's a really hard one - I honestly don't tend to get really scared! I think it's because I watch horror all the time and think about scary things constantly so I'm think I'm desensitized to it! Real-world things tend to scare me. Like I was scared once when I couldn't find my son - he was supposed to be at a friend's house and wasn't, and I had to search the neighborhood for him. Those were probably the scariest 20 minutes of my life, wondering where he was and terrified he'd been kidnapped!
5.) What is your favorite horror remake? The Grudge - does that count? I've never seen the Japanese original, but the American remake was scary. BEST horror movie ever!
6.) Describe The Possession of Cassie Quinn in four words.
Scary. Unexpected. Funny. Different.
7.) What would you do if you witnessed someone who was possessed? Run away. Fast.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
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