Friday, January 31, 2014

Reveal & Giveaway: Now That You're Here by Amy K. Nichols


About the book
Danny and Eevee are meant to be together . . . Just not in this universe.

Eevee Solomon has high school down to a science. Get the grades. Get the recommendations. Get into an Ivy League college, and eventually land a killer job at NASA.

Then Danny Ogden enters the equation.

Danny is a street-smart graffiti artist. He’s always managed to stay out of serious trouble, but this time he’s out of luck. One minute he’s running from the cops, and the next, he jolts awake in an unfamiliar body–his own, but different. Somehow, he’s crossed into a parallel universe. Now his friends are his enemies, his parents are long dead, and coolheaded Eevee is not the brazen girl he once kissed back home. Then again, this Eevee may be his only hope of getting home.

Eevee tells herself she’s only helping him in the name of quantum physics, but there’s something undeniably fascinating about this boy from another dimension . . . a boy who makes her question who she is, and who she might be in another place and time.

About the Author: Amy has been crafting stories for as long as she can remember. She earned a Master's in literature and worked for years as a web designer, though, before realizing what she really wanted to be was an author. Her first novel, YA sci-fi thriller Now That You're Here, will be published by Knopf Books for Young Readers on December 9, 2014. The follow-up, While You Were Gone, will be published in 2015. She is mentored by award-winning crime novelist James Sallis.

Amy is represented by Quinlan Lee of Adams Literary. She's an active member of SCBWI and SFWA, as well as a member of the Class of 2k14 debut authors. 

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Class of 2k14


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Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Waiting on Wednesday #48: Of Neptune by Anna Banks

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.


Of Neptune by Anna Banks
Expected Release: May 2014


Goodreads Synopsis
Emma and Galen s kingdom and their love is threatened by long-lost Syrena in the brilliant conclusion to Anna Banks bestselling trilogy.

Emma, half human and half Syrena, and her Syrena love, Galen, need time together alone. Away from the kingdoms of Poseidon and Triton. Emma s grandfather, the Poseidon king, suggests the two visit a small town called Neptune.

Neptune is home to both Syrena and Half-Breeds alike. But Emma and Galen didn t sign up to be peacemakers between the ocean and the land-dwelling, freshwater Syrena. They didn t bargain for meeting a charming Half-Breed named Reed, who can barely disguise his feelings for Emma. And they especially didn t expect to find themselves in the middle of a power struggle that threatens not only their love but their ocean kingdoms.

In this stunning conclusion to her bestselling Syrena Legacy, Anna Banks thrills fans with more action and romance than ever.

What book are you looking forward to reading?




Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Into the Still Blue by Veronica Rossi

Author: Veronica Rossi
Title: Into the Still Blue
Series: Under the Never Sky #3 
Publication: January 28, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins 
Source: Edelweiss
The earth-shattering conclusion to Veronica Rossi's "masterpiece" Under the Never Sky trilogy and sequel to the New York Times bestselling Through the Ever Night (Examiner.com).

Their love and their leadership have been tested. Now it's time for Perry and Aria to unite the Dwellers and the Outsiders in one last desperate attempt to bring balance to their world.

The race to the Still Blue has reached a stalemate. Aria and Perry are determined to find this last safe-haven from the Aether storms before Sable and Hess do-and they are just as determined to stay together.

Meanwhile, time is running out to rescue Cinder, who was abducted by Hess and Sable for his unique abilities. And when Roar returns to camp, he is so furious with Perry that he won't even look at him, and Perry begins to feel like they have already lost.

Out of options, Perry and Aria assemble a team to mount an impossible rescue mission-because Cinder isn't just the key to unlocking the Still Blue and their only hope for survival, he's also their friend. And in a dying world, the bonds between people are what matter most.

In this final book in her stunning Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi raises the stakes to their absolute limit and brings her epic love story to an unforgettable close.
Time is running out for Aria and Perry to find a way to safely transport everyone to the Still Blue. The aether is changing, growing more dangerous every day. Aria, Perry and a select group know they must journey to face their enemy to get transportation and retrieve Cinder from Sable's grasp but with as little bloodshed as possible. Once they arrive to their destination things seem to go smoothly that is until much begins to go horribly wrong. In this book, relationships and alliances get tested. Trust must be earned and a leader must surface to rally the Dwellers and Outsiders for the survival of all. Will a sacrifice be the key to accomplishing it all? A new life, a new beginning or will all be lost? 

I liked getting to learn more about Aria's background and how she came into having her gift of hearing. She goes through some much in this book from betrayal to uncovering a secret from her past. Roar's not his chipper self and he misses Liv. He doesn't understand how Perry can seem so unaffected but he can't see past his pain, so he doesn't realize the struggle Perry has with being a leader and mourning the death of his sister. He feels the need to be strong for everyone because having a meltdown could cause chaos. I liked the love story between Perry and Aria, she's more open about how she feels for him and that's sweet to see. Now, one character caused much havoc in this book with his sick, twisted ideas about the world he envisions....that would be Sable. He's not an honorable character and didn't like him but he made a good adversary for the main characters. He knew just how to manipulate them to get what he wants, well everything but Aria but he has plans to remedy that. I liked how the story moves throughout and there is tons of action and betrayal going on in this one. Aria and Perry must learn to trust themselves and their ability to lead this new joint community of Dwellers and Outsiders and journey on Into the Still Blue. Overall, I'm satisfied with ending though one character exit from the book saddens me but I understand why. This is a good book about love, family and friendship.


Monday, January 27, 2014

Audio: Lord of Opium by Matteo Alacran

Author: Nancy Farmer
Narrator: Raul Esparza
Series: Matteo Alacran #2
Title: The Lord of Opium
Length: 11 hrs,  31 mins
Publication: 2013
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Source: Audiobookjukebox
As the teenage ruler of his own country, Matt must cope with clones and cartels in this riveting sequel to the modern classic House of the Scorpion, winner of the National Book Award, a Newbery Honor, and a Printz Honor.

Matt has always been nothing but a clone—grown from a strip of old El Patron’s skin. Now, at age fourteen, he finds himself suddenly thrust into the position of ruling over his own country. The Land of Opium is the largest territory of the Dope Confederacy, which ranges on the map like an intestine from the ruins of San Diego to the ruins of Matamoros. But while Opium thrives, the rest of the world has been devastated by ecological disaster—and hidden in Opium is the cure.

And that isn’t all that awaits within the depths of Opium. Matt is haunted by the ubiquitous army of eejits, zombielike workers harnessed to the old El Patron’s sinister system of drug growing—people stripped of the very qualities that once made them human.

Matt wants to use his newfound power to help, to stop the suffering, but he can’t even find a way to smuggle his childhood love, Maria, across the border and into Opium. Instead, his every move hits a roadblock, some from the enemies that surround him…and some from a voice within himself. For who is Matt really, but the clone of an evil, murderous dictator?

Not really for me, I thought the story was interesting but I never really could connect to any of the characters. I think Matteo had his moments where acts like his predecessor, El Patron but his heart is different. He wants the best for everyone, no one should have to suffer. He has a few people who are against him being in charge and will do their best to make him feel inferior and look incompetent because of his age and lack of experience. Matteo has big plans to change the land of Opium from a drug haven to a place that prospers on real crops that don't kill. He hopes to save the eejits and give them back their humanity. I think the world from Matteo's eyes is pure and innocent. His beliefs that the world could be better is touching and I enjoyed hearing Esparza give life to this character as well the others. The production and sound are good. Esparza keeps pace with text well but this book wasn't for me. At times, I lost focus on the story because it seemed slower than what I'm used, however I would suggest those that enjoyed the first book and are looking for a good story about a boy trying to find his way in a world of drugs, chaos and murder...then I'd say check it out. 

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Audio Review: Tandem by Anna Jarzab

Author: Anna Jarzab
Narrator: Amanda Dolan
Series: Many Worlds #1
Title: Tumble & Fall
Length: 10 hrs,  58 mins
Publication: 2013
Publisher: Blackstone Audiobooks
Source: Audiobookjukebox
Website Twitter

Everything repeats.
You. Your best friend. Every person you know.
Many worlds. Many lives--infinite possibilities.
Welcome to the multiverse.

Sixteen-year-old Sasha Lawson has only ever known one small, ordinary life. When she was young, she loved her grandfather's stories of parallel worlds inhabited by girls who looked like her but led totally different lives. Sasha never believed such worlds were real--until now, when she finds herself thrust into one against her will.

To prevent imminent war, Sasha must slip into the life of an alternate version of herself, a princess who has vanished on the eve of her arranged marriage. If Sasha succeeds in fooling everyone, she will be returned home; if she fails, she'll be trapped in another girl's life forever. As time runs out, Sasha finds herself torn between two worlds, two lives, and two young men vying for her love--one who knows her secret, and one who thinks she's someone she's not.

The first book in the Many-Worlds Trilogy, Tandem is a riveting saga of love and betrayal set in parallel universes in which nothing--and no one--is what it seems.




Sasha experiences the night of her life with her crush Grant, that is until he kidnaps her and she finds herself in another world and tons of trouble. Not trusting this perpetrator, she makes things difficult at first for him...then she learns that her survival depends on his guidance. Sasha has to impersonate Princess Julianna for about a week before she'll be allowed to go home but a sinister plot and hidden agendas may leave her lost. She eventually discovers her kidnapper, Thomas, who is Grant's analog, is a soldier and Julianna's bodyguard. Sasha gradually begins to trust and rely on him but she can't shake these feelings that are beginning to stir within her nor her jealous speculations about his relationship with the Princess. She also can't quite trust him either, he's little bit of a liar and he has a moment that after as much crap as Sasha puts up with him, he doubts her and it will cost him. Sasha is also conflicted by her affection for the Prince that Julianna has to marry because she feels she's betraying his trust. As her week begins to wind down, her hopes of home don't look as promising but danger looms in the background. Can she help Thomas save Julianna or will Aurora be lost to chaos?

This story's told from both Sasha and Julianna's perspectives. They are somehow connected and the reason is surprising.  Sasha is giving and considers others feelings but I found Julianna's character cowardly and selfish. I did enjoy how the story flipped between each girl, keeping the tempo of the story balanced. The plot's pretty cool and a refreshing take on time travel. I really like the world that Jarzab has created and look forward to the next installment because that ending, whoo! Full of deceit and twists this looks like a promising trilogy.


Audio: The narration by Dolan is good and found her interpretation of this work an entertaining experience. She does a good job of in her variations between the characters with her vocal inflections in a way that is realistic. The sound and production are clear and crisp without any distracting noises. I would definitely listen to Dolan again, she keep my attention that entire time and that's hard to do.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Reveal & Giveaway: Elevated by Elana Johnson


About the Book
The last person seventeen-year-old Eleanor Livingston wants to see on the elevator—let alone get stuck with—is her ex-boyfriend Travis, the guy she's been avoiding for five months.

Plagued with the belief that when she speaks the truth, bad things happen, Elly hasn’t told Trav anything. Not why she broke up with him and cut off all contact. Not what happened the day her father returned from his deployment to Afghanistan. And certainly not that she misses him and still thinks about him everyday.

But with nowhere to hide and Travis so close it hurts, Elly’s worried she won’t be able to contain her secrets for long. She’s terrified of finally revealing the truth, because she can’t bear to watch a tragedy befall the boy she still loves.



Buy Links: Kobo


Praise for ELEVATED:
"ELEVATED will take you on an emotionally gripping journey through the highs and lows of first love."
~Carolee Dean, author of Take Me There and Forget Me Not

"Poignant, raw, and intense, ELEVATED is a novel that will grip your heart and linger in your mind long after you turn the last page."
~Stasia Ward Kehoe, author of Audition and The Sound of Letting Go

About the Author
Elana Johnson’s work, including Possession, Surrender, Abandon, and Regret, published by Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster), is available now everywhere books are sold. Her popular ebook, From the Query to the Call, is also available for download, as well as a Possession short story, Resist. School teacher by day, Query Ninja by night, you can find her online at her personal blog or Twitter. She also co-founded the Query Tracker blog, and contributes to the League of Extraordinary Writers.



Social Media Links:

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Thursday, January 23, 2014

Tour Promo: The Lost Realm Series by K.L. Penington

The Lost Realm
"Some would call it a twin's intuition"
Cover- The Guardians 


When sixteen-year-old twins Emma and Evin LeFay are suddenly forced to pack their belongings after the tragic murder of their mother, they soon find that the busy city life of Boston, Massachusetts is more than they could have expected.

First are the two mysterious boys that Emma crosses paths with one night, after being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. She thought she escaped them without getting caught, but it soon becomes apparent to her and Evin after a series of strange events that someone--or rather, several people--seem to be following them. 

It's after a close-run in with a group of menacing creatures, and the sudden aid of the same strange people that have been following them that Emma and Evin quickly realize there is more to Boston than skyscrapers and noisy cars. 

Left with no other options and seeking the truth behind their mother's murder, Emma and Evin accompany their saviors to a place known as Hawthorne Academy. It's here that the twins soon learn they are part of a supernatural race with rare abilities, known as Dracons, one Otherworld race amongst four other paranormal races that have lived in disguise as humans for centuries. 

Being part of an Otherworld race has its drawbacks, however, when Emma and Evin are enrolled for training at Hawthorne after a heated meeting with the Otherworld Council and its leaders. It's either sink or swim for these Otherworldly twins as they train at the academy and learn to control their unique gifts.

Convinced life couldn't get much more bizarre, Emma and Evin discover a mysterious archway leading to an entirely different realm that has been lost over time. It's in this Lost Realm and the Celestial kingdom of Evmurah that the twins are dubbed the Guardians of the Realms, protectors of both the Mortal and Immortal Realms.

It's Emma and Evin's job to protect both realms from the darkness that taints them and the mysterious Precursor that seems to want them dead.
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Cover- The Secret Society
It's been one month since Emma and Evin Lefay's encounter with the vengeful Caine Fletcher, and just as they are beginning to hope things can return to normal--or as normal as the Otherworlders' lives can be--the twins are attacked one night in a graveyard by mysterious, mask-wearing Stiffs...

The twins learn the masked Stiffs are known as Venators, and are part of a secret society, whose sole purpose is to extinguish all Otherworld beings. If that's not enough, strange things are beginning to happen to Emma and Evin. Emma begins having preminitions, and Evin discovers he has the sudden, phenomenal ability to supernaturally heal his own wounds.

 Meanwhile, Tristan's sister is in town, and she's causing more trouble than good--mainly in Evin's love life. With two very different girls vying for his attention and only one girl worth chasing after, how can the Guardian possibly be expected to concentrate on much of anything else? As if they aren't already overwhelmed enough, the leader of the Boston Otherworld Mafia has taken a sudden interest in the Guardians. "Marco Polo," as he is called, promises to help Emma and Evin with the Venators--for an unlisted price
Things are quickly spinning out of control for Emma and Evin...

Will they conquer the threats that face them?

Or have the Guardians of the Realms finally met their match?


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Headshot- K.L. Penington
About the Author
K.L. Penington was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, which is what initially inspired the background for characters Emma and Evin. It was at an early age that K.L. discovered she was not whatsoever athletically gifted, an evil genius, or the next Beethoven. One thing she did know, however, was that she loved to read. As a result, growing up, some of her best friends and biggest influences in her life were the characters from her favorite books. The passion behind K.L.’s writing comes from the ability to be anyone and do anything, and because she can share the multiple different personalities living in her head without anyone judging her—much. Her dream has always been to one day see her own books on bookshelves, next to the hundreds of other books she enjoys reading. Currently residing in Wichita Falls, Texas, K.L. attends Midwestern State University, where she is in fierce pursuit of an English degree. When not writing, K.L. can be found haunting the local coffee shop, nurturing an everlasting addiction to chai tea, or spoiling her only child, Lily, the small poodle with the big attitude.
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Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Waiting on Wednesday #47: City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.


City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare
Expected Release: May 2014


Goodreads Synopsis
ΕRCHOMAI, SEBASTIAN HAD SAID. 

I am coming.

Darkness returns to the Shadowhunter world. As their society falls apart around them, Clary, Jace, Simon and their friends must band together to fight the greatest evil the Nephilim have ever faced: Clary’s own brother. Nothing in the world can defeat him — must they journey to another world to find the chance? Lives will be lost, love sacrificed, and the whole world changed in the sixth and last installment of the Mortal Instruments series!

What book are you looking forward to reading?




Monday, January 20, 2014

Sacrifice” (Daughters of Lilith: Book 3) by Jennifer Quintenz

"Sacrifice" (Daughters of Lilith: Book 3) by Jennifer Quintenz

Title: “Sacrifice” (Daughters of Lilith: Book 3)
Author: Jennifer Quintenz
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Secret Tree Press
Release date: January 31, 2014

Book blurb:
“Just when Braedyn Murphy thought she understood the danger descending on Puerto Escondido, a new threat arrives. A cult devoted to Lilith has taken up residence in the little town, and when Cassie gets tangled up its intrigue, Braedyn realizes she might have to chose between protecting her friends and stopping Lilith from reclaiming this earth.
With her duties to the Guard wearing on her, Braedyn turns to Lucas for solace. Together they wonder if now is the time to claim their one night together—knowing that one night is all they may ever have.

Darker forces have their own plans for Braedyn and the Guard. Braedyn knew this fight could be brutal—but how much can one girl be asked to sacrifice in order to save the world?”


Check out the previous books in the series:
Thrall, Daughters Of Lilith: Book 1: http://amzn.to/MWzVx6
Incubus, Daughters Of Lilith: Book 2: http://amzn.to/11FCcmB
Sacrifice, Daughters Of Lilith: Book 3: coming soon


Praise for the series:
Thrall-(Daughters of Lilith: Book 1)

"Before you even start this review, put down anything you are doing and go read Thrall. It's AMAZING! BREATHTAKING! Engaging and smart, Thrall leaves you speechless!"

"The writing style is so smooth, yet gripping. Add some good characters, well-paced story and you have something that I like. No, not like. Love... No surprise that “Thrall” gets full five stars and the highest recommendations I can give."
"How do I even begin to put all the crazy, gushy, ramblings in my brain about this book onto paper?!? Where to even begin?....This book is a MUST read!"
- Hooked In A Book review on Amazon

Praise for “Incubus” (Daughters of Lilith: Book 2)

"If you like gutsy fantasy of the urban variety this should definitely be on your 'must read' list. Don't let the YA label put you off either, like all the best YA fiction, this can be enjoyed by adults as well. I give it an unreserved 5 stars."

"This is one of those books that I have been looking forward to since June of last year... I loved this book and I'm so happy I finally got to read it. I recommend the entire series for the fully developed characters, the impressive mythology, and the fight scenes. I am dreading waiting for the next book."

"Great reading. LOVE IT. Jennifer Quintenz is a special writer who can be very riveting... Spent several sleepless nights in a crazy rush to see how it ends. Can't wait for the next books."
- Terri, review on Amazon

About the author:

Jennifer Quintenz is an award-winning film and television writer, author, and graphic novelist. She has written for Twentieth Television, Intrepid Pictures, and Archaia Studios Press. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads



Saturday, January 18, 2014

Cover Reveal: Grimm Legacy by Janna Jennings @patchwork_press


Cover Designed by: Erica Crouch (http://erica.patchwork-press.com)
Originally Published by: Patchwork Press, October 29th 2013

Book Summary
Enchanted castles and charming princes thought to exist only in stories come to life in this classically twisted fairy tale that combines the timeless quality of generations old folktales with the challenges of the modern world. 
The woods of Elorium appear ordinary to Andi Grace, until birds start talking and elves answer doors. Along with three others, Andi has been whisked out of her world and finds herself the reluctant guest of the perplexing millionaire, Mr. Jackson—a stranger willing to help get them home, but who’s keeping secrets of his own. 
Discovering unexpected family connections to this fairy tale land, the group must rely on each other as they dodge evil fairies and battle giants, intent on keeping them in Elorium. Faced with characters short on whimsy and bent towards treachery, Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are forced into fairy tale roles to find the way home. But in Elorium, happily ever after is never guaranteed.




About the Author
Janna is a Colorado based YA author who loves a good fairy tale. She’s married to her own real life Prince Charming, and will usually admit to being mom of three, including her incorrigible middle child, Benny. Besides wrangling her kids she can be found doing some therapeutic baking, dreaming of the ocean, and of course, curling up with a good book.
Twitter | Blog

Friday, January 17, 2014

Audio Review: Carrots by Colleen Helme

Author: Colleen Helme
Narrator: Wendy Tremont King
Title: Carrots
Series: Shelby Nichols Adventures, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs, 39 mins
Publication: 2013
Publisher: Colleen Helme
Source: Author
Website | Twitter 

Shelby Nichols is an average woman who is married to the only guy she ever fell for. Her life is organized and predictable, revolving around her husband and two children. All that changes the day she stops at the grocery store for some carrots. As the cashier rings up her purchases, a gunman is busy robbing the bank inside the store. When a customer grabs the robber's mask, he is shot and everyone runs for cover. Everyone except Shelby, who finds herself face to face with the killer. The next thing she knows, she's lying on the floor with a bullet wound to her head. Luckily, the bullet only grazes her scalp, and she doesn't suspect any lasting affects until later, when she suddenly 'hears' what people are thinking. With this uncanny ability, her life takes on a whole new dimension. Her kids think she's bossy and too old to understand them, but that's nothing compared to her husband. He says he loves her, but what is it about the redhead at work that he doesn't want her to know? As if that isn't enough, the gunman knows she can identify him, and he's out to silence her forever. In her fight to stay alive, she is saved from certain death by a handsome hit-man with ties to organized crime. This pulls Shelby even deeper into danger, where knowing someone's thoughts can not only hurt her feelings, but get her killed.



I love Shelby! She attracts so much trouble and it was fun listening to her try to get out of it. It all begins to what becomes an extremely bad day, all because she needs carrots for dinner. A shot to the head later, Shelby is in the hospital and discovers that she can hear the thoughts of those around her. Unsettled, she does her best to adjust to this ability but it only makes her family think she's crazy when she answers questions that haven't even been asked yet. If this isn't enough, the killer is on the loose and he knows who she is, which makes her a target and her husband's new co-worker, Kate rubs her the wrong way. Kate is a devious character and she plans to have her way with Shelby's hubby, Chris. I just enjoyed all the interactions between the characters, Shelby is something else. I even liked mob boss Uncle Joey and his assistant Ramos(think I spelled this right). Shelby is a strong female lead and it will be interesting to see how she progresses throughout the series because this book's loaded with action, murder and deceit...loved it! King does a fabulous work with these characters. Her voice is clear and inviting. She keeps a steady pace with the action without losing the tempo of the story. King breathes life into each character with her tone of voice. Overall, I think this book translates well as an audio and Helme has crafted an entertaining character in Shelby. Can't wait to see what trouble, she gets into next after that ending! 

Cover Reveal: Orenda by Ruth Silver

Title: Orenda
Author: Ruth Silver
Expected Publication: Spring 2014
Publisher: Patchwork Press
Genre: YA, Fantasy


Synopsis:
A sword wielding girl, an eternal suit and an alternate universe.

Lil has a gift, one she never thought possible as she finds herself awake after a strange dream with the tell-tale sign that what she dreamt was in fact real.  The dreamscape, was more than just a premonition it happened.  She’d been momentarily tossed into another dimension.  Where most would consider her crazy, not her best friend Bray.

In another reality, one similar and yet slightly different Willow has been kidnapped by the sorceress turned demon, Eilith.  Rawlie, Willow’s friend and companion crosses to our universe for help and brings Lil into his world.  Filled with frightening creatures and magical elements, Lil demands to go home, until she discovers Bray has been taken by Eilith as well.  Unable to watch her best friend die, she joins forces with Rawlie, Jamie and the others to hunt down Eilith and rescue those they care about.





About the Author:
Ruth Silver attended Northern Illinois University and graduated with a Bachelor's in Communication in the spring of 2005.  While in college, she spent much of her free time writing with friends she met online and penning her first novel, Deuces are Wild, which she self-published in 2004.  Her favorite class was Creative Writing senior year where she often handed in assignments longer than the professor required because she loved to write and always wanted to finish her stories.  Her love of writing led her on an adventure in 2007 to Melbourne, Australia.  Silver enjoys reading, photography, traveling and most of all writing.  She loves dystopian and fantasy young adult stories.  Her debut novel published by Lazy Day Publishing and Patchwork Press, ABERRANT, was released April 2013.  The second novel in the series, MOIRAI, continues the saga. ISAURA, is the final installment in the ABERRANT trilogy. Ruth has been actively writing since she was a teenager.  Her current writing projects include a YA science-fiction fantasy series, ORENDA, and a YA/NA paranormal series, DEAD GIRL WALKING. Both novels are due for release in 2014. She currently resides in Plainfield, Illinois.

 Website | Twitter | Facebook

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Excerpt & Giveaway: Golden Dunes of Renhala by Amy Joy Lutchen

Golden Dunes banner

This is my stop during the blog tour for Golden Dunes of Renhala (Renhala #2) by Amy Joy Lutchen. This blog tour is organized by Lola's Blog Tours . This blog tour runs from 13 January till 26 January, you can view the whole tour schedule on the Golden Dunes of Renhala blog tour page on the website of Lola's Blog Tours.


Golden Dunes of Renhala (Renhala #2)
by Amy Joy Lutchen
Genre: Urban Fantasy

Age category: New Adult
Release Date: November 26, 2013
Golden Dunes cover artBlurb:
How do you live with a secret so dark and so deeply woven into your being that it threatens to smother your very existence, with no known way out? Use it to your advantage.
Kailey Rooke, karmelean, and now a possibly unethical karma-for-hire, has spent the past year jumping from project to project without any real hope for salvation. With repercussions from her actions at every turn, she discovers that as time goes on, she loses a bit more of herself to that which feeds on her anguish--that which is thriving inside her own body.
When a new contract to find a missing girl arises, Kailey attempts to put her past and its associated problems on the back burner, but she soon finds out that treachery and deceit lie shortly ahead in Golden Dunes, only giving face to new problems, with one leading right back to her childhood past.
She struggles to complete her contract as her own life teeters on a fulcrum, constantly tipping according to karma’s whim. How long will she keep her balance? Which way will she fall?



You can buy Golden Dunes of Renhala here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Excerpt
As an unexpected warmth flows into the room, running over my feet first, I freeze. It slowly crawls up my body, touching my hands and forcing them to reach forward. As the heat envelopes my head, I suddenly yearn to possess this deadly treasure, so I touch it, and the pole comes off the wall with one pull. I embrace it, suddenly feeling I will never be disconnected from my new lover, because it is me and I am it. I swing, and it is light in my hands. The metal whistles as it slices air, singing its song of perfection—perfect balance.
Suddenly, I am torn from my find by a peculiar noise accompanied by the faint smell of rotten eggs. I know the smell, and I run to the door, not wanting to be cornered in this room. That’s when I see it standing in the road, and it’s huge—at least eight feet tall and five feet wide, with dark brown skin and fur. I recognize the feet—all three of them, situated like a tripod, with the center leg slightly forward. Its full hideousness is far worse than its feet alone. The huge eyes that take up at least 50 percent of its head stare at me while its mouth, which seems to take up the other 50, quivers, drooling some dark liquid. I can’t be sure, but it looks like it’s hungry. It stares at me as though I’m a huge medium rare rib-eye steak. There are sprouts of fur here and there around its body, and its arms dangle below its waist. It wears a large loincloth and short pants, both shredded on the edges. There is also a band around its waist, somewhat resembling an extra, extra, extra large fanny pack. I stand, frozen with fear at the realization that I’ve been visited by yet another hideous creature. It was not a dream. The delicious meal I just ate starts creeping up my throat, but I swallow, keeping it at bay.
A noise escapes from behind the creature. Its ears quiver, and its head turns all the way around like an owl’s, then swivels back toward me. I’m amazed by its flexibility. Its skin seems to be in constant movement, and it begins moving toward me quickly. It’s so fast. And so big.
I grab the pole and stabilize myself, knowing I cannot outrun this abomination, and it’s time to prove I can take care of myself. Seconds before it reaches to grab me with its monkey-length arms, I duck and swing the pole out, but the creature jumps over me swiftly. 
It lunges again quicker than expected, and I manage to somehow cut my leg with my own weapon. The flow of blood freezes me, vulnerability creeping up on me like a dark shadow. The creature makes the jump toward me. I fall directly down, sticking my pole spade straight up in its direction with my eyes closed. My movement is unexpected—by both of us—so the creature comes down slightly crooked as my blade nicks the inside of its leg.
Black ooze runs down its leg, dripping onto the dirt. Black ooze. Before I lose myself to the visions, I notice the tears in its eyes. This big, ugly creature—surely sent by Satan himself—is crying, and reeks of regret? 
“Ow! You hurt Bu! How could you? Bu was only going to help you.” Its voice is undeniably male and youthful as it wipes the dark ooze from its mouth on the back of his hand, then proceeds to lick some off.
“Oh, gross,” I say, totally disgusted. I hold the pole weapon out in front of me. 
The tears are as big as his eyes as they roll down his cheeks, and I find myself feeling bad I hurt him, even if he was going to rip my throat out. I get closer to him, just out of arm’s length, and say, “You were going to eat me! Is this a trick? You feign pain, I come close, and then you eat me?”
He then does something unexpected—giggles. It’s then that I feel it—purity. Purity of heart and soul is spewing from him, like rays from a sun, warm and soft as cashmere.
“Wait,” I say as I sniff the air. “You smell like chocolate.”

Renhala (Renhala #1)
By Amy Joy Lutchen

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Age category: New Adult
Release Date: 26 September, 2012
Blurb:
Renhala ebook Final Cover ArtKailey Rooke, timid accountant dedicated to philanthropic work, finds herself spiraling into a deep depression after she suffers a horrifyingly odd and humiliating assault, to only discover more of these freakish assaults occurring across the globe.
A chance discovery leads Kailey to a meeting with elderly Gunthreon, actual master of persuasion. Gunthreon, who seems to know too much of Kailey's history for her liking, opens Kailey's eyes to a coexisting magical realm she never knew existed: Renhala, while entrusting her with the knowledge of her newfound power as karmelean, serving as a beacon to the Higher Ones. She soon discovers that Renhala is in danger, and this danger has been leaking into her own realm. As she uncovers secrets within herself, and attempts to toughen up, she fuses with an unlikely band of fellow travelers/creatures, falls into an unexpected love triangle, and finds the courage to master a new deadly weapon.
As blood is shed and puzzles near completion, Kailey pulls from deep within herself, conjuring up mystical qualities that enable her to astonish as once predicted at her birth, but despite the newfound strength, Kailey will discover that monsters not only come in ugly packages, but can be easily disguised as those she has come to love and trust.

You can grab your free copy of Renhala here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Smashwords


Amy-Joy-Lutchen-picAbout the Author:
Was born in Chicago and slept in a dresser drawer for the first few weeks of my life, marking me as a future claustrophobe.

I studied at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana (man I grew up quick), where I became a number, but decided it was a good number.

I write with plenty of snacks in hand, making sure they are not in multiples of three. That number makes me nervous.

Author of the Renhala series.

You can find and contact Amy here:
WebsiteFacebook | Twitter | Goodreads


There is a tour wide giveaway for the blog tour for Golden Dunes of Renhala. Here is what you can win: signed Renhala hardcover, signed bookmark, tea(s), two fun pouches (one with a skull, the other the word "LOVE"), a snake ring and $25 Amazon or Barnes & Noble gift card.

You can enter the giveaway here:
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Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Blast & Giveaway: Destined for Love by Melissa Foster




You met Rex Braden in Lovers at Heart, Book One of the The Bradens (Love in Bloom Series). Jade Johnson is about to turn his comfortable rancher's life upside down. Don't miss this powerful love story.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+** 


DESTINED FOR LOVE is a hot contemporary romance with alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women. They're flawed, funny, passionate, and very relatable for readers who enjoy adult romance, contemporary romance, and women's fiction.

Rex Braden is wealthy, hard working, and fiercely loyal. Sweat at his brow, he works the family ranch by day, then kicks back at night with part time lovers who require nothing more than his physical presence a few times each week. But that was before. Before Jade Johnson, the daughter of the man his father has been feuding with for over forty years, moves back into town.

After ditching a horrific relationship—and her veterinary practice in the process—Jade Johnson returns to the safety of her small hometown and finally finds her footing. That is...until her horse is injured and Rex Braden comes to her rescue. The last thing she needs is a bull-headed, too-handsome-for-his-own-good Braden complicating her life.

Despite the angry family history, sparks fly between Rex and Jade, and attitudes follow. Fifteen years of stifled, forbidden love stirs a surge of passion too strong for either to deny—and the rebel in each of them rears its powerful head. Loyalties are tested, and relationships are strained. Rex and Jade are about to find out if true love really can conquer all.


Buy Link: Amazon


Watch for the full LOVE IN BLOOM series:

SNOW SISTERS
Sisters in Love
Sisters in Bloom
Sisters in White

THE BRADENS
Lovers at Heart
Destined for Love
Friendship on Fire
Sea of Love
Bursting with Love
Hearts at Play



ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Melissa Foster is the award-winning author of four International bestselling novels. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the Women’s Nest, a social and support community for women, the World Literary Café. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on  Fostering Success. Melissa is also a community builder for the Alliance for Independent Authors. She has been published in Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Huffington Post, and Women Business Owners magazine.

Melissa hosts an annual Aspiring Authors contest for children and has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Melissa lives in Maryland with her family.

Visit Melissa on The Women’s NestFostering Success, or World Lit Cafe. Join Melissa and the YaYa Writer Girls at their annual in-person event. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups, and welcomes an invitation to your event.


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