5-STAR ARC Review: At Last by Jill Shalvis

Original Title: At Last
Series: Lucky Harbor #5
Author: Jill Shalvis
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Release Date: June 26th 2012
Genre: Contemporary Romance

HER LOVE HAS COME ALONG . . .
Amy Michaels loves her new life in Lucky Harbor. A waitress in the local diner, she's looking forward to her first weekend hike through the mountains. But when a wrong turn takes her off the trail, she finds herself up close and personal with forest ranger Matt Bowers. And even though she's tempted to kiss that sexy smile right off his face, she won't make the mistake of getting involved with the town heartthrob.

A former cop whose life went south, Matt doesn't let anyone get too close. But something about the feisty beauty caught his eye the moment he first saw her in the diner. After a hot night under a starry sky, Matt can't deny their attraction-or the fact that for the first time in a long time, he feels the stirrings of something more. Now it's up to Matt to help Amy see that, no matter what is in their past, together they can build a future in Lucky Harbor.

REVIEW

*** This book was provided by Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review. ***

Amy Michaels is one of the Chocoholics member, meaning her life is going to change next.  Amy is a waitress at Lucky Harbor's local diner, who didn't trust men, due to some bad past experiences.  But, hating men is really hard, when you spend a night under the same tent, with the hot cop - to whom your attraction meter moves beyond threshold.

Matt Bowers (Ranger Hot Buns!!!) is a tough hot cop, that I was telling before (remember that tent incident?).  Matt learned well from his ex-wife, that he sucked at relationships and stays away from women who expects that.  With so much attraction that he feel towards Amy, Matt couldn't help following the waitress around at all times.  When Amy, at last, comes into his life with 'no-relationship-just-one-time-affair' deal, Matt was all happy and content.  We all know what comes next -- yep, they fall for each other 'strongly', without knowing that they are falling.

Amy and Matt are strong and sweet characters.  They bind you to them from the start, making it impossible to part with the book until you reach the last page.  The other characters like
- Riley, a teen with troubled life and
- Josh, a hot doc who tries very hard to control his naughty son and sister,
are all good and adorable too.  Its always good to hear about the heroes from other books in the series again - makes you feel more at home.

As always, this is a beautiful, sweet and emotional contemporary romance from Jill Shalvis.   I wanted to share one quote from the book - one of the best quotes I have read.

"I'm not here to solve your problems. I'm here to support you in your own decisions."

This could be read as a standalone novel, although its fifth novel of Lucky Harbor series and second of the Chocoholics series.

Happy and content!

SERIES ORDER

   

 

1.  Simply Irresistible
2.  The Sweetest Thing - Read review here
3.  Head Over Heels - Read review here
4.  Lucky In Love - Read review here
5.  At Last - Read review here
6.  Forever and a Day - Read review here
6.5. Under the MistleToe - Read review here
7.  It Had To Be You - Expected publication: May 28th 2013

Guest Post & $25 Gift Card and Necklace giveaway: Dust of my Wings by Carrie Ann Ryan

Original Title: Dust of my Wings
Series: Dante's Circle #1
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan
Publisher: Fated Desires Publishing
Release Date: July 24th, 2012
Genre: Paranormal

Humans aren’t as alone as they choose to believe. Every human possesses a trait of supernatural that lays dormant within their genetic make-up. Centuries of diluting and breeding have allowed humans to think they are alone and untouched by magic. But what happens when something changes?

Neat freak lab tech, Lily Banner lives her life as any ordinary human. She’s dedicated to her work and loves to hang out with her friends at Dante’s Circle, their local bar. When she discovers a strange blue dust at work she meets a handsome stranger holding secrets – and maybe her heart. But after a close call with a thunderstorm, she may not be as ordinary as she thinks.

Shade Griffin is a warrior angel sent to Earth to protect the supernaturals’ secrets. One problem, he can’t stop leaving dust in odd places around town. Now he has to find every ounce of his dust and keep the presence of the supernatural a secret. But after a close encounter with a sexy lab tech and a lightning quick connection, his millennia old loyalties may shift and he could lose more than just his wings in the chaos.

EXCERPT

“Hi.” Shade smiled and tilted his head.

“Hi,” she breathed.

“You look beautiful, Lily.” He tucked a stray hair behind her ear and she shivered.

“You do too.” She blushed again. Soon she’d be Crayola red. “I mean you look handsome.”

He traced her jaw with a calloused finger. “Thank you. Are you ready to go?”

She swallowed hard. “Uh huh.”

Okay, she really had to remember the English language. This was getting embarrassing.

“Okay then.” He trailed his hand down her arm and wrapped his palm around hers. His warm skin felt like heaven against hers.

She shook her head, clearing her thoughts. How was she supposed to get through a whole date if she couldn’t even formulate thoughts to get out of the door?

With a nod, she gripped his hand tighter and closed the door behind her. He led her to his bike and she smiled.

“I love it, Shade.”

He gave a huge grin. “Thanks. This is my baby. No matter where I am, I try and take her with me.” He rubbed the leather seat and an irrational urge to knock the bike down went through her.

She would not be jealous of a motorcycle. Would not.

FALL INTO A BOOK WITH ME

- Guest Post by Carrie Ann Ryan

I'm an author because I have stories to tell, but I'm a reader because I know there are more stories out there. Why do I read? Because as an escape, a new way to see life, to see the world, and to find out how people fall in love. Since I started reading romance novels about three years ago, I've read over 5500 books.

I know, crazy right?

It's loved every one of them, but I've loved most. What is it about romance novels or a book in general that I love? Is this the way that each character is unique, yeah there are stereotypes, and templates. Each book is different for me and that you have a different set of characters a different world the different way they interact. I love trying to pick that apart and figuring out how I would fit in, or how frankly, I wouldn't.

I read at least a book a day. Yes, I know, that seems like a lot. But I can't help it, I need to read. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and sometimes reading helps with the pain. I'm thinking about something else that's not my joints. Plus, finding out how a hero to fall in love with a woman and how a heroine can find it within herself to fall for that man. Each book open is a new world in a new way to experience just the simple things.

In Dust of My Wings, I did what I love doing best. I opened up a whole new world, with the supernatural or in abundance and the humans don't know they exist. Each human is in itself a supernatural, just a deluded down version. But they don't know it. It's going to take something to spark that change. I got to create a whole new world, and find out where I would fit in, and where I didn't. I got to meet new characters, like Shade, a warrior angel over millennia in age, sent out to save his people only to find the lab tech named Lily is in his way.

I read a book because it's fun not being myself for just a moment and being someone else. Sometimes I can be that heroine and fall in love with the hearer right there, take each stumble with the same grace she has, and rise against the antagonist with her. Other times on the third-party watching from afar you loving every bit of it. That's why I love reading, because I can be the character or a can watch the characters, it doesn't matter it's up to me and the author. But each time I get defining the world.

So tell me, what's your favorite part about reading? Is it the new worlds? The new characters? What are you the most excited about reading a new series?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carrie Ann Ryan is a bestselling paranormal and contemporary romance author. After spending too much time behind a lab bench, she decided to dive into the romance world and find her werewolf mate - even if its just in her books. Happy endings are always near - even if you have to get over the challenges of falling in love first.

Her first book, An Alpha's Path, is the first in her Redwood Pack series. She's also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She loves meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at:

AUTHOR ONLINE

• Website:  http://www.carrieannryan.com/
• Blog:  http://carrieannryan.blogspot.com/
• Heartthrob Haven:  http://heartthrobhaven.blogspot.com/
• Facebook Author Page:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carrie-Ann-Ryans-Author-Page/243643205647654
• Facebook Friend:  http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002584098860
• Goodreads |:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5360266.Carrie_Ann_Ryan
• Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan
• Tumblr :  http://carrieannryan.tumblr.com/

GIVEAWAY

Carrie Ann will be awarding Dust of my Wings "swag" packs to one commenter at ever stop, a $25 Amazon GC and necklace (pictured included in attachments) to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour and a $10 Amazon GC to the host with the most comments (excluding the author's and the host's).

This is the necklace that is for the giveaway..anyone interested? I know - I totally am!  Its amazing, right?  Come on, you could win.  Comment below in this post WITH your email ID.

Giveaway is INTERNATIONAL and ends August 24th, 2012!

Guest Post & Giveaway: Don't Fear the Reaper

Original Title: Don't Fear the Reaper
Series: The Death Chronicles #1
Author: William F. Houle & J.E. Taylor
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Links: Amazon | B&N | Smashwords

The day Nick Ramsay’s eighth-grade teacher drops dead in his classroom, Nick sees his first reaper. When another cloaked figure appears at his grandmother’s bedside, Nick issues an order for the vile creature to leave her alone.

This simple act of defiance creates a domino effect that brings Fate and Death to Nick’s door and reveals his true lineage, throwing his world into chaos. To make matters worse, a group of rogue reapers declares war on humanity and Nick is the only one who can stop them.

BUCKET LIST

- Guest Post by J.E. Taylor

I’ve been thinking about bucket lists lately. Especially the things I want to do once my kids are done with college and out on their own.  While that isn’t tomorrow – it isn’t that far off on the horizon.  I know my hubby wants to buy a boat – something he’s wanted for a while – however, I have an inner ear affliction that would make it very difficult for me to enjoy,  but is that a reason to not let him have such a toy?  So I figured I’d write down the things I’d like and as I started listing things, I realized, I’m really not your average woman…

1. Publish a book – CHECK – Okay, this is really a cheat because I’ve done it more than once – but I could refine it to say write and publish a book with my son.  

2. See my children graduate, get married and have kids of their own.   I know – all parents want to see this.

3. See at least one of my books become a movie – what author doesn’t – right?

4. Travel the world – places I’d like to go: Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England, Ireland, Russia and Romania - along with several places in US and Canada.  This requires me to get off my duff and get a passport – yep that’s on my to-do list for the near future…

5. I want to go horseback riding on the beach with the man I love.   Yep – I do have a bit of a romantic side and this to me is the embodiment of it – I’ll leave out what we’ll do on the beach once we get off the horses.  Just use your imagination.

6. I’d like to learn to fly a plane, preferably an F-16 or something comparable that can break the sound barrier.   This would fuel the adrenaline junkie in me.

7. Visit Quantico and have a few conversations with the FBI behavior analysis unit and anyone else that I could corner and pick their brain for a while.

8. Shoot a variety of different weapons (I’ve shot a 45, 22 and 9mm) – half research – half adrenaline junkie fix here – so it’s a tossup where this really lands.  Besides, shooting the hand guns was fun, I’d like to do that again anyway.

9. Attend Writer’s Police Academy – so many reasons and like the previous two items – this would benefit my writing craft and answer some outstanding procedural questions I have about both police process and general questions I think this weekend course would answer.

10. Visit the body farm  - morbid – yes, but think of the leagues of research and realism I can tap from a visit like this, and if I can corner the forensic specialists, well that would just beat all.

I admit some of these are a bit odd, but they have to do with wanting to deepen my craft.  So now that I’ve disclosed mine, what are some of the things you’d like to do in your lifetime?

In the meantime, check out Don’t Fear the Reaper, the first book in The Death Chronicles series that I wrote with my twelve-year-old son!
The day Nick Ramsay’s eighth-grade teacher drops dead in his classroom, Nick sees his first reaper.  When another cloaked figure appears at his grandmother’s bedside, Nick issues an order for the vile creature to leave her alone.

This simple act of defiance creates a domino effect that brings Fate and Death to Nick’s door and reveals his true lineage, throwing his world into chaos.  To make matters worse, a group of rogue reapers declares war on humanity and Nick is the only one who can stop them.

GIVEAWAY

The author is giving away one e-copy of DON'T FEAR THE REAPER to one lucky winner from the Rafflecopter. 

The giveaway is INTERNATIONAL and ends August 12th 2012!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Feature & Giveaway: The Syrenka Series by Amber Garr

Original Title: Promises
Series: The Syrenka Series #1
Release Date: December 7th, 2011
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy, Young-adult

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.

When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé, would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family, her clan, and her life with Kain will have dire consequences far beyond anything she could have imagined.

A war is brewing amongst the clans and Eviana unwittingly becomes a pawn in the intricate schemes of a twisted mastermind. With Brendan’s life on the line, she has no choice but to involve those she once considered friends. Amidst encountering senseless tragedies and immense loss, Eviana discovers that she is more valuable as a clan leader than anyone ever suspected. Her survival is not only dependent upon the loyalty of her friends, but also on her acceptance of a life she so adamantly tried to escape.

EXCERPT - PROMISES

I barely heard her parting words as the screen door slammed shut.  My head spun in desperation as the anger coursed through my bones.  “Get back in here Eviana!” she continued to scream at me.  “We are not finished with this conversation!” 

I was already racing down the deck stairs toward the sandy beach, kicking off my shoes and unbuttoning my blouse.  We are for now, I thought as my blood boiled with rage and resentment.  I was going to be trapped!  How dare they?  This was not the eighteenth century anymore!  I had rights! 

I stumbled onto the sand, taking just a brief moment to savor the warmth and the feeling of the grains massaging my toes.  My shirt came off and I started to unzip my jeans.  No one was around.  But I wouldn’t care anyway.  The water was calling me and it was the only voice that I could hear now.  With one pant leg off, I hopped along in my forward progression until the other one was free.  My oasis was so close now that I could taste the salt in the air.  The sun broke free of a cloud, stopping me for a moment.  It was late afternoon with sunset still a few hours away, but the sky had already turning multiple shades of pink and orange.  The coloration reminded me of the inside of a brilliant conch shell.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath.  I knew there would be hell to pay when I returned to the house.  Marguerite, my mother, had tolerated my rebellious behavior when I was younger, giving me more freedom and second chances than anyone in our clan.  But apparently now, at seventeen, I was an adult.  Adult enough to bear children.  Adult enough to participate in clan gatherings.  Adult enough to navigate our youth through their transition period.  But not adult enough to choose who to love. 

A slight breeze wafted off the ocean, bringing with it scents that filled my gut with longing.  The freedom of the ocean.  Why couldn’t I just stay there forever?  A gull called overhead, beckoning me to join him.  The splashing waves calmed my inner rage as they ebbed and flowed in a hypnotic pattern.  A distant moan of a shipping vessel reminded me of our history.  I opened my eyes to see that I was standing alone along miles of sandy beach interlaced with large rocks and cliffs emblematic of the northern California coast.  So beautiful.  I stripped off the rest of my clothes and ran into the ocean.

As soon as I was under the water, I could feel the transition begin.  My lower body ached as the bones adjusted from a life on land to one at sea.  Both legs began to fuse together and work as one.  My foot bones elongated while I prepared for the agony.  I was accustomed to the changes now, but it was still a struggle of mind over matter.  Breaking through the surface of the water, I grabbed one last breath before the final jolt of pain ravaged through my body.  I bit my bottom lip and squeezed my eyes shut, willing the moment to be over.  At last I felt an electric tingle move from my hips to my toes as the hardened iridescent, scales appeared on my tail.  I opened my eyes to find that the internal transformation was complete as well.  My vision cleared.  My lungs expanded.  I could hear for miles.  I was free.

So I swam.  I swam away from the shore and the house that I lived in.  I swam away from my fears and obligations as though they could disappear with the distance.  I would temporarily forget my responsibilities, my duties, and the argument with my mother.  In here, I wasn’t trapped.  The sea was my true home.  I was a mermaid and this was my world.  

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Original Title: Betrayal
Series: The Syrenka Series #2
Release Date: February 20th, 2012
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy, Young-adult

Life as a mermaid can be suffocating.


Eviana Dumahl has returned home as a clan leader, an orphan, and a heartbroken teenage girl.  Her parents are dead and her boyfriend, Brendan, has decided that he needs some time away.  While battling her inner turmoil, Eviana is forced into the war that Lucian Sutherland has incited amongst her own kind.  With the help of Kain, her friend and formally betrothed, the two work together to prove that they deserve their birthrights as young merfolk leaders.

When The Council requests a demonstration of Eviana’s mermaid powers, she finds herself with an opportunity to win back Brendan’s heart.  But her orders to train with a repulsive merman and the presence of an attractive new suitor challenges Eviana to embrace her leadership and resist temptation. Lucian is after her, and no one seems to understand why.  Loyalties are tested as the casualties increase, showing Eviana that sometimes it is impossible to delineate between friends and enemies.

EXCERPT - BETRAYAL

I wanted to punch him in the face.

For at least the hundredth time today, I swung my fist towards his infuriating smirk.  He easily dodged it, of course, and proceeded to look down at me like a child.  “You’re getting closer,” he teased.

Throwing my arms down in frustration, I shook my head.  “How am I supposed to learn if you won’t even let me get a hit in?”

He laughed and resumed a fighter’s stance.  “How are you supposed to learn if I just stand still and let you pummel me?  That’s not ever going to happen in the real world.  Now, try with your legs.”

I rolled my eyes and shifted my feet so that my stronger right leg was in front.  Ideally, I’d be having this battle underwater where my legs were not an issue. 

“Protect your face,” he yelled at me and I lifted my fists up to nose level.  I could do this.  He’d taught me how to incapacitate my enemies.  Just go for the knee. 

I faked a few smaller kicks, pretending to hesitate.  Then, like a ninja, I struck.  The underside of my right foot was directly on target and I expected it to land a perfect hit to the side of his left knee.  Only it didn’t happen.

Out of nowhere, he grabbed my ankle and I was suddenly airborne.  The world spun around me once before I landed with a thud on my back, effectively knocking the air from my lungs.  I even saw some stars floating by.  My training sessions were getting harder every day, and after this debacle, I decided that it was time to quit.

A shadow moved above me and I used my hand to block out the rest of the sun.  Looking up at his ominous figure I said, “I’m done.”

I heard another laugh rumble through my trainer’s chest as he reached down and grabbed my arm.  In one swift motion, he pulled me up off the ground. 

“You would have broken my knee with that kick, Eviana.  I had to stop you.”  I glared at him.  “What?” he continued.  “I’m not going to let you hurt me.  But you did well.  I knew that you’d learn eventually.”

I jumped towards him as fast as I could, intending to get him in a choke hold.  My arms slipped around his neck, but my body kept rolling over him as he bent forward and used my momentum to toss me towards the ground.  In less than two seconds, I was on my back again with a forearm pressing against my throat and my pride seeping away into the dirt.

“Ahh!” I screamed in frustration.  The annoying grin on his face told me that I would never beat him in a fair fight.  Palmer was my cousin, my trainer, and also one of the numerous protectors now living at my house.  We’d been practicing for the past two weeks and although I couldn’t hurt him yet, Palmer reassured me that I was improving. 

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Original Title: Arise
Series: The Syrenka Series #3
Release Date: July 4th, 2012
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy, Young-adult

With power comes the responsibility to accept its consequences.

After the betrayal of those closest to her, Eviana Dumahl struggles to cope with her new reality. Kidnapped, broken, and confused, she is forced to engage in a war that will alter merfolk politics forever. With her estranged father leading the charge, Eviana has no choice but to stand by his side. Her continued existence hinges on the acceptance of the power growing inside her, even when that means embracing the family’s dark lineage.

Kain Matthew will sacrifice the world for Eviana. And he is not alone. As time runs out, her friends fight to save her life and theirs. An unlikely alliance gives them the edge they need to take a stand, although it keeps Eviana’s heart trapped in the past. A new discovery explains some of her previous mistakes, but it may not be enough to stop her father’s plans. Merfolk, selkies, and water sprites work together to save their kind, only in this final battle, not everyone will survive.

In the striking series conclusion, Eviana will learn the true meaning of power, sacrifice, and love.

EXCERPT - ARISE

Eviana

When Graham and I surfaced back inside our coral-walled prison, we noticed that someone had brought us two plates of food.  Without speaking to him, I pulled myself out of the water and willed my legs to come back to me.  Considering our history, I might have had some concern over Graham seeing me naked, but once again, I couldn’t muster up the energy to care.

“I see they’ve improved the food,” he commented.

“Doesn’t matter, I’m not eating,” I said without even looking at the plates.  Now that we had the light from underwater, it made it easier to move about the room and identify what Lucian’s cronies were feeding us.

“No?”

“Nope,” I said as I finished pulling my shirt over my head.  When I turned around, I saw Graham chewing on a piece of pineapple and sifting through the rest of the items.  Much to my dismay, my stomach growled.  It was so loud that Graham chuckled.

“Perhaps your body wants some nourishment.”

“I don’t care.”

“Suit yourself, tart.”

I rolled my eyes and walked over to him.  The smell of the food was overwhelming and I couldn’t help but look down at it.  “Don’t call me that,” I said but spoke more to the plate.  There was some type of fish wrapped in a banana leaf and it smelled delicious.

“You’re drooling,” he teased.

“It’s probably poisoned.”

He bit into another piece of fruit.  “Well, I haven’t eaten anything solid in days, so I’ll take my chances.”  Grabbing his plate, he sat down cross-legged on the floor and proceeded to stuff his face.

Tempted, I fought the urge to give in.  I didn’t really know what the purpose of my hunger strike was and how it would help get me out of here.  I guess I just wanted to be difficult.

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*** This tour is part of the tour for Bewitching Book Tours. *** 

GIVEAWAY

• One paperback package: All three signed books plus SWAG (US only)
• Three ebook packages: All three books in series via coupons (US and international)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway & "Best & Worst Memories" - Guest Post by Elyse Douglas

What are your best and worst memories from adolescence? 

- Guest Post by Elyse Douglas

Elyse:  My best memories from adolescence involve high school.  I started off in ninth grade as a tall, gangly “four eyed” kid with braces, painfully shy and insecure.  I would half-run, half-walk down the hallway, with my head down, eyes lowered, in the hopes that no one would notice me.  I attended a Catholic, co-ed school, staffed primarily by Sisters of Mercy, but there were a few lay teachers.  One was my freshman year history teacher, a single young man right out of college.  I developed a huge crush on him and learned to type just so I could type up his world history outline.  (My typing skills helped me much more in life than learning world history, although I did remember some facts about English kings and queens for a while.)

Things started to turn around when I convinced my parents to let me get contact lenses (which I paid for by having a small paper route – throwing papers onto doorstops from my bicycle every morning).  Then the boys started getting taller, my braces came off, and suddenly, in eleventh grade, I was considered desirable!  The high point of the year was when I was in a production of Camelot, in the chorus.  

How I loved the make-up, the make-believe, and the costumes… and I know I looked stunning as a siren in King Arthur’s Court because one of the Sisters told me that a Father who came to see the show actually singled me out as the prettiest girl in the show.  Then the boy who played King Pellinore asked me out on a date.  He was a great actor, and finally, finally, I had a boyfriend.  We danced close at the junior prom, even in a Catholic high school auditorium, and made out in his father’s car until the wee hours of the morning.  

By senior year, I had learned to play the guitar so I could lead a hootenanny, I was on the student council, I accompanied the Christmas chorus on the piano, I was named valedictorian, and I lost Pellinore.  I dated a few other guys, but it took me until the end of senior year to catch another star, one of the best athletes in the school, who took me to the senior reception.  More close dancing and lots more necking.  Those were great memories.

My worst memories involve my home life.  My parents fought continuously. My sister and brother left for college, leaving me alone in the war zone.  I developed an ulcer.  I wrote furiously in my journal every night; I wrote poems; I walked the beach – and then my parents sold our beach house, and I was devastated.  But you know, we all survive adolescence and crazy home lives.  And I have to agree with what one of my boyfriends said:  My parents must have done something right, because I turned out to be a pretty nice person.

Douglas: My best memories are of baseball summer days under high blue skies, scooping up baseballs off the fat bats of opposing players who were bigger and richer than I.  My best memories are also of falling in love every month with a new girl – and then some of the worst memories are of being too shy to ever let them know it.  And then there was the pain and confusion of crashing adolescent emotions – as well as utter shock when I realized that adults were nearly as confused as I was.  I thought they had figured life out.  Seeing that they hadn’t was very discouraging.  Very early on, I knew I had a long, rough road ahead of me. 

Buy Now @ Amazon 

Genre - Contemporary Romance
Rating - PG
More details about the authors & the book


Connect with Elyse Douglas on Twitter & Facebook
Website http://www.elysedouglas.com/contact/

GIVEAWAY

The author is giving away e-copies of THE ASTROLOGER'S DAUGHTER to three winners.  The giveaway opens INTERNATIONALLY and ends August 12th, 2012!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Feature & Guest Post (The Escape): Exiled by J.R. Wagner

Original Title: Exiled
Series: The Never Chronicles #1
Author: J.R. Wagner
Publisher: Live Oak Book Company
Release Date: June 5th, 2012
Genre: Fantasy, Young-adult

Exiled is a fantasy novel written for young adults about a boy (15) who is wrongfully accused of murdering his mentor and banished to The Never, a place from which there is no chance of escape. James must first learn to survive in this inhospitable environment before finding a way to return home, where he believes he must be the one
to save his kind from destroying themselves.

Full of sorcery, treachery, tragedy, adventure and excitement, Exiled is book one of The Never Chronicles, which in full, completes the story of James, The Never and the feared Epoch Terminus – the rapidly approaching date marking the end of his world.

Every other chapter follows James in The Never, while, in “Lost”-like fashion, the alternating chapters provide back-story. The story lines eventually come crashing together in dramatic fashion, tying sub-plots together and providing the reader a “wow” moment.

THE ESCAPE

- Guest post By J.R. Wagner

Only during fourth period did I realize the sticker on my newly purchased jeans had been running down my leg all morning.

        M
        M
        M
        M
        M

Not only was it embarrassing that I’d forgotten to remove the sticker, but the entire school had realized that my pant size is that of a sixth grader. Fortunately, my good friend, Lisa, was kind enough to point it out.  By the time I hit fifth period, I was still wondering if there was even the slightest possibility that Lisa likes me…that is until I saw her kissing my arch-nemesis, Dave.

Ugh, how could someone so kind, smart and sweet fall for such a meat-head. I’d call him a jock but he doesn’t play any sports. He’s too self-involved to play sports.  All he does is lift weights and look at himself in the mirror.

I was snapped out of my spiteful stare by a tug on my arm.  There went all my books –spread across the hallway like a bag of marbles dumped down a set of stairs. I didn’t even have time to curse at the jerk who did it because the culprit disappeared into the throngs of students who didn’t even slow as the books, papers, folders and binders hit their feet –they just kicked them out of their way.  By the time I got everything picked up, I’d traveled a good hundred feet down the hall, descended two sets of steps and out one door into the rain… and the late bell has long since rung.

Why don’t I use a book-bag, you ask?  Well, remember the gym-rat, Dave?  He decided to use my book-bag as an experiment on the bus the other morning. His equally juiced-up friend, Brett, bet Dave he couldn’t rip a book-bag in half with his bare hands. Dave won. Of course, I was the silent victim.

When I got home, Mom was pissed that my new book-bag had been ruined. I told her I snagged it on an open locker.  She didn’t believe me and said I had to buy a new one with my own money, which I am saving for the next edition of Zombie Warfare,  (releasing in two weeks) Zombies versus Vampires on Mars. So, THAT is why I didn’t have my books in a book-bag.

I crept into health class and attempted to take my seat unnoticed by Mr. Swingline who, of all people on the planet, shouldn’t be teaching others about health.  Enough said. Somehow, Swingline, with his meat-laden eyelids managed to spot me and shouted, ‘Detention, Mr. Grey!’ loud enough to make his jowls quiver.  I’m surprised his diseased-infested lungs had the capacity to produce such a volume…but I digress.

So, I got to call my mom (no I don’t have a cell phone –long story) and tell her I need to be picked up after detention (that went over well) and spent the better part of three hours –yes detentions are THREE ungodly long hours here at Armwell College Preparatory School.  I spent the first twenty minutes organizing my armloads of books, papers, folders and binders.  Near the end of my reorganization process, I stumbled upon something that wasn’t in my possession this morning. A book.

The book was bound in old looking leather (I can’t believe I didn’t notice it under my arm all day) and the page edges were worn and yellowed.  When I opened the front cover, I came upon a hand-written note.

‘May the limitations of your destinations by self-imposed by your imagination.’

It was neither signed nor dated but something gave me the feeling that it was the author who had inked the message. I turned the page and melted away into another world leaving all my worries behind.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Watch a theatrical book trailer: http://youtu.be/44ZRQxugAvM

Website: TheNeverChronicles.com

Author blog: whatisthenever.blogspot.com

@JRWagner2

J.R. Wagner's Exiled - the first in The Never Chronicles -  will be FREE on Amazon Tuesday, August 7 - Wednesday August 8.

Interview & $50 Gift Card Giveaway: Tools of Prophecy by Michael E. Rothman

Original Title: Tools of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.

In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.

Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.

The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.

INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL ROTHMAN

1.     Tell us something about your book that is not part of the book description (blurb)..

In this book, we introduce a much wider cast of characters than in the first book of the series. Preliminary readers were sometimes delighted with the introduction of additional personalities and I fully expect there will be debate amongst readers with regards to who is their “favorite dwarf”  “funniest character”  “most irksome personality”

Lots of book #1 had elements of the “fish out of water” scenario (similar to Alice in Wonderland) and in this book, we continue the saga, and it leaves much more room for added interactions with personalities on a much more personal level.  I hope everyone enjoys.

2.    Who is your book cover designer and what do YOU think about the cover?

Believe it or not, I designed the book cover with the artist.  I had scenes in my mind from what I had written that I thought would be good representations.  In this case, the scene for TOOLS OF PROPHECY’s cover is from a latter portion of the book, and I saying much more about who is represented would give too much away.  Nonetheless, I expect people, once they’ve read the book, to recognize the scene.

And of course, since I had a direct input on the design – I am a bit biased and would say that I love it.  ;-)

3.     What are your current literary works?  Any sneak peaks?

A prequel novel to this series is in editing right now.

Below is some description text that should whet the appetites for some folks.

Arabelle, the daughter of a merchant king in the land of Trimoria finds her normally simple life interrupted by events far beyond her control. Her life of leisure is shattered.

Arabelle must learn to resist the monstrous foes that threaten her people and the ones she loves.

She must do this while keeping a dark secret that only she can bear.

4.     What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year?

The Hobbit (the movie) at the end of 2012 of course.

5.     If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?

I will stick to people that I couldn’t otherwise arrange.  Some authors I have the ability to reach out and make such arrangements, so I’ll skip those.

Albert Einstein – clearly he’s dead – however love to hear much from him especially since my background is steeped in the sciences
Terry Goodkind – am sure he has some interesting tales from his most recent life events
My grandfather – man I’ve always looked up to
Moses – historical / religious figure – have some questions for him. I’ve practiced my Aramaic for the off-chance it occurs.
Robin Williams – I think he’s hilarious

6.     What's the craziest writing idea you've had?

The idea that this engineer would go ahead and write an Epic fantasy.  See?  Sometimes crazy ideas aren’t necessary bad ones.

7.     Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.

If you are looking for an engaging book with lots of action, many epic fantasy elements, has many elements of mystery, yet provides a wholesome family experience which might occasionally be educational, then this would be your type of book.

8.     Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

Having the readers tell me about their experiences and thoughts about the books and characters.  For instance, I am finding that many people seem to gravitate to an otherwise unsuspecting character who happens to be an ogre. It should be interesting to see how things evolve in TOOLS to see if the “favorites” are maintained or evolve.

9.     What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?

Persistence. Most would-be authors fail, because they never finish what they started. You too might have a great book or series of books in your head, but 99+% never finish what they start.  It takes a special kind of masochism to be an author.  Obviously, you do need some basic elements such as grammar, language skills, and imagination.  If you have those, you have the makings of an author. Most people lack the wherewithal to complete the task.

10.  If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?

Who says I haven’t jumped into Trimoria before?      Actually, Trimoria is in a bit of chaos at the moment, maybe the dust should settle before a mass exodus from our world.  I think the real estate in Mordor is probably very cheap now that its main occupant has been defeated.  What do you think?  

11.  If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?

“What was he thinking?!”

12.  What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?

There is a very touching scene between Ryan and his fiancée. It is a scene which when my son was reading it, I asked him a question and he waved me away and shushed me with impatience as he was in the midst of that riveting scene.  I suspect most people will know exactly what I am talking about when they read the book.

13.  What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?

I absolutely love some 70’s TV shows like All in the Family and the Jeffersons.  Our society in the US is too politically correct and sensitive. Those shows take stereotypes that upset people today or that people are sensitive about nowadays and simply poke fun and make humor from it.

14.  What is one book everyone should read (apart from yours)?

The Hobbit – it started the genre.

15.  What is your favorite way to spend a rainy day?

Sleeping!

QUICK ANSWERS

Favorite place?

Near a lake, fishing.

Best christmas present?

Truthfully – am drawing a blank.  Not sure if I had a favorite or memorable one.

Favorite book?

The Hobbit – of course

Favorite author?

JRR Tolkien

Favorite smell?

Old leather.

Favorite series?

Lord of the Rings

Nickname?

None that I know of – aside from “Mike”

Favorite writing spot?

On my favorite chair, but really almost anywhere.  Maybe even in bed.

Favorite movie?

Contest between the Cecil B. Demille’s Ten Commandments, and Peter Jackson’s adaptation of the Lord of the Rings (I know – that’s three.....but so be it)

Favorite dish?

A good lasagna, biryani, or hotpot.  (Yes, I have eclectic food tastes)

Favorite color?

Blue

Favorite quote?

“A child without hope, is a child no longer” – Michael A. Rothman

A bunch of small gifts or one big expensive one?

One expensive

Your best trait?

Stubborn

Your worst trait?

Stubborn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.

Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of “Fiction” that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.

I’ve learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic. 

AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

GIVEAWAY

Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.

To enter this awesome giveaway, all you have to do is comment in this post WITH YOUR E-MAIL ID.  Anonymous and Name/URL comments without email IDs will not be considered for giveaway.  So, please leave your e-mail ID in the comment.

Open INTERNATIONALLY!  Giveaway ends August 17th!

Guest Post and $25 Gift Card Giveaway: The de Montforte Brothers series

BLURB

"The bluest of blood, the boldest of hearts; the de Montforte brothers will take your breath away." 

England, 1776: Lord Gareth de Montforte is known as an irresponsible rake with a heart of gold. When he takes a bullet for boldly thwarting a stagecoach robbery, he is stunned to discover that the beautiful young woman he has heroically rescued, Juliet Paige, is his deceased brother’s American fiancée, accompanied by her infant daughter. Despite his brother the duke's refusal to acknowledge Juliet, Gareth is determined to do right by the courageous woman who crossed an ocean to give her baby her rightful name. But Juliet is wary of marrying this black sheep aristocrat, even while she is hopelessly charmed by the dashing devil. Never has she met anyone who embraces life so thoroughly, who makes her laugh, who loves her so well. And, even when it seems the odds are against them, Juliet has absolute faith that Gareth will go beyond the call of duty, risking his life itself to give her and her daughter a home — and a love that will last a lifetime.

"Ten Things Most People Don't Know About Me"

- Guest post by Danelle Harmon

1.  I set a good part of my book THE WILD ONE in the actual English town of Abingdon-on-Thames in Oxfordshire.  My husband and I were married and used to own a home there, and I took my dog, Roscoe, for daily walks along the footpaths and fields that I envisioned belonged to Swanthorpe, the estate of my hero Lord Gareth de Montforte.  County Hall, the scene of his triumph over The Butcher, is a real place, as are the churches, rivers, streets and other landmarks mentioned in the book.  I still have the old bicycle I bought while living in Abingdon, which took me everywhere as we only had one car, and my husband needed it to get to work.  I carried many a grocery bag home on that bike!  It's a bit rusty now and not very pretty, and my English husband says it's a "granny bike," but I don't care; there are wonderful memories attached to it!

2.  I love music, and the more energy it has, the better.  The British band Oasis, which rose to prominence during the years I lived in England, remains one of my favorites, though they are no longer together.  In fact, I wrote two of my de Montforte Brothers series to their music; their rousing and orchestraic "All Around The World" was frequently blaring while I was writing THE BELOVED ONE.  They did an outstanding cover of the Beatles's song, "I Am The Walrus," too, which I adore.  I have several versions of both these songs on my iPod and they'll probably contribute to an early loss of hearing on my part.

3.  The senior German Shorthaired Pointer on the e-cover of THE DEFIANT ONE is actually my beloved "Roscoe," gone now to the Rainbow Bridge.  He was my first AKC champion, and finished as the # 26 German Shorthaired Pointer in America in the year in which I showed him most heavily.  He also served as the model for "Freckles" in the book.  He was a great friend and lived to the ripe old age of fifteen, and I still miss him.

4.  I volunteer a lot of my time, effort, and tears to dog rescue, and my family has fostered five dogs over the past two years.  Fostering is probably the single biggest need that rescue organizations have, and it's a rewarding and deeply satisfying venture for anyone who wants to have a part in saving a life.  Rescue is a passion of mine, and I was recently tapped by our National Rescue Chair to write a column for our breed's bi-monthly national magazine.  (I suspect it will be more challenging than writing a book!)

5.  I wrote WICKED AT HEART, just released for e-books, while still living in England, and had a photo of a young, and at the time relatively unknown (although he has since gone on to become quite famous), actor next to the computer to inspire me.  He was my hero.  If you've read the book, can you guess whom he might be?

6.  Cookie dough is my favorite ice cream flavor.  It was "invented" by Ben & Jerry's back in the late 1980s, and at the time, you could only buy it at their own retail stores; it wasn't sold anywhere else.   I loved it so much that I used to jump in my little Mazda Rx7 and drive the two hours out to their shop in Eastham, Cape Cod, just to get a cone with it.  Then I'd drive all the way back home.  (Of course, gas was a lot cheaper, then!)

7.  I hate my hair.  It's hot and uncontrollable and frizzy and I can't roll the windows down and let the wind through unless I want to look like I stuck my finger in a light socket.  It stymies me that people with the hair that I envy — that is, straight! — think I'm "lucky" for having such a rat's nest sitting atop my head.

8.  I used to own, and know how to load, fire, and clean, a British "Brown Bess" musket.  As I live fairly close to Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts — sites where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired — and have a passion for this time in American history, I used to be heavily involved with re-enacting those events with a local minuteman group.  On my way home one day from Boston or Arlington, and while still dressed in my "minuteman" clothes and toting my musket, I stopped off at the Old North Bridge to reflect on the events in which I had just taken part.  I was deep in reverie when  voices intruded on my thoughts, asking for my picture.  Looking up, I found a whole group of Japanese tourists, all armed with smiles and cameras.  Of course I obliged them.  Even now, years later, I smile to think that maybe, far, far away on the other side of the world, I'm looking out of a Japanese photo album, surrounded by happy tourists.

9.  I booked trips on two Maine windjammers, and also took sailing lessons as part of my research when I was writing my sea stories.  I got pretty good sailing a 17' sloop, and solo at that!

10.  Ted Neeley of Jesus Christ Superstar owns a copy of my book, THE WILD ONE.  When the production came through here several years ago, I waited until the wee hours for the chance to meet this man that I all but idolized.  I was not writing at the time, and never thought to do so again, but we started talking about creativity, and he gave me all sorts of wonderfully supportive advice and encouragement.  He remains one of the most inspiring and incredible people I have ever met, and I feel blessed for the opportunity to have spent some time with him; God bless him!

Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog today — I've enjoyed being here, and wish you and your readers many hours of great reading.  Have a happy and wonderful summer!

— Danelle Harmon

P.S.  I love to hear from my readers!  You can email me at Danelle@danelleharmon.com, or reach me through any of the following means:

Danelle Harmon on the web:  Danelleharmon.com
Danelle Harmon on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/DanelleHarmon
Danelle Harmon on Twitter:   https://twitter.com/DanelleHarmon
Danelle Harmon's blog:  http://danelleharmon.wordpress.com/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Multi-award winning and critically acclaimed author Danelle Harmon is the author of ten books, previously published in print and distributed in many languages throughout the world. A Massachusetts native, she married her English husband while living in the United Kingdom, and both now make their home in Massachusetts with their daughter Emma and numerous animals including four dogs, an Egyptian Arabian horse, and a flock of pet chickens. 

Danelle welcomes email from her readers and can be reached at danelle@danelleharmon.com , on the web at http://www.danelleharmon.com, or through her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DanelleHarmon

GIVEAWAY

Danelle will be awarding a digital copy of book two, "The Beloved One" to one randomly drawn commenter at every stop and a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.

Giveaway open INTERNATIONALLY and ends August 3rd 2012!

Book Feature & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway: Fournicopia by Delilah Devlin

BLURB

Forget the sugar. Send her the spice.

Delta Heat, Book 2

Gus Taggert knows a setup when he sees one. The doughnut shop his police officer buddies have sent him to, Cornucopia, is too frilly. Too pink. Then the woman behind the counter serves up a mini-lesson in submission that leaves him ready and willing to obey her order to see her tonight at La Forge BDSM club.

The large, burly cop is exactly the kind of alpha guy that newly minted Domme Aislinn Darby has been dying to tie up and spank. Yet after she puts him through his paces, she finds herself eager to let him take control—something she’s never before enjoyed with a man.

Determined to find out once and for all if she has what it takes to control a scene, she orders him up for one more go. Only this time, she intends to ensure he remembers who’s in charge. She’s even willing to offer a little bribe: accept her dictates, and his reward is her—any way he wants her.

Except when it’s time for payback, it comes with several twists she never saw coming.

Product Warnings: When a male sub decides to turn the tables on his pretty Domme, he calls for backup from his best friends. Contains scenes with m/m/f, m/f/m, f/f, spanking, restraints, and an orgy of pleasure no woman can resist.

EXCERPT

Officer Taggert, dressed in jeans, cowboy boots and a crisp pale shirt, strode straight for Mondo. Mondo’s gaze narrowed, and he tilted his head in her direction. The large man turned, spotted her and gave her body a quick onceover before his glance snapped back up to her face.

Aislinn gave him a look he couldn’t misinterpret. Her chin jutted and her lips thinned. She lifted the flogger and pointed it his way.

Review & Giveaway: Sundered by Shannon Mayer

Original Title: Sundered
Series: Nevermore Trilogy #1
Author: Shannon Mayer
Release Date: September 2nd 2011
Source: From Orangeberry book tours
Genre: Dystopian

A miracle drug, Nevermore, spreads like wildfire throughout the world allowing people to eat what they want, no matter how unhealthy it is and yet still lose weight. It is everything the human population has ever dreamed of and Mara is no different. Only a simple twist of fate stops her from taking the drug.

As the weeks roll by, it becomes apparent that Nevermore is not the miracle it claimed. A true to life nightmare, the drug steals the very essence that makes up humanity and unleashes a new and deadly species on the world, a species bent on filling its belly. Locked down within their small farm home, Mara and her husband Sebastian struggle against increasingly bad odds, fighting off marauders and monsters alike.

But Sebastian carries a dark secret, one that more than threatens to tear them apart, it threatens to destroy them both and the love they have for each other.

The secret forces Mara to make the ultimate choice. Will she live for love, or will she live to survive?

REVIEW

Mara and Sebastian are married to each other for four years, with no kids.  Mara loves to have kids, and the miscarriage that happened a year back has made her more dejected.  When a miracle drug called Nevermore, was announced to cure fertility issues and so many other diseases, Mara goes to hospital for getting her shot.  But, as Mara was allergic to the plant from which this drug was created, she was not allowed to take it.  Again dejected from the unfairness, she reaches home and forgets about it.  Sebastian tries to cheer her up by buying a yellow Lab puppy.

After a few weeks of that drug, the drug-injected people became animalistic - man eating man.  And also, they are formed as packs (like one Alpha and others under him).  Mara and Sebastian locks themselves in their home, looking after each other, while the wild humans are waiting outside their gate.  How long are they going to make it like this?  And Sebastian has some bigger and dangerous secret from Mara..

First, for those, who are considering to read this book thinking its a zombie novel, please stop it.  It is not.  But, I am sure you will love it, if you are reading this novel without that expectation.  Second, this is fiction..so, stop thinking - again.  Even after all these warnings, if you are going to 'think', you will dislike this novel and so, don't buy it.  Some novels are not to think..its just to read and enjoy!

This novel started with a slower pace.  The simple, but thrilling plot, makes you read it faster to know what happens next.  The ideas of the zombie-ish pack are good and the secrets in the novel created the feel that the author expected it to.

Mara is a strong heroine and for that, I am glad, because without her, this novel wouldn't have stood a chance.  And Sebastian (do NOT think) is a strong, hot male, who loves his wife so much that he tries to be at her side even when things got worst.  There are other minor characters, which I loved - especially the Lab pup.  I really enjoyed the novel..I did, until I finished the last page.

The only thing I am not able to get is the romance part.  I am a hopeless romantic, but even I know that some things are not under our control.  When you say love can cure a zombie to behave as human, I am definitely NOT going to take it.  But, yeah, as the author has put it in some places, that based on the size of a human, some can take more time to lose their humanity than others.  So, I just hope the next books in the series is more science than fantasy.  (Okay, am I 'thinking' now?)

The novel ends in a cliff-hanger, so that means I am just going to follow the journey of Mara and Sebastian to see what is going to happen. (People have to learn that I hate cliff-hangers, before asking me to read them. ;) )

Thrilling, enjoyable, but ..!  Maybe next time!

GIVEAWAY

The author is giving away an e-copy of Sundered to 3 winners of the Rafflecopter.  Winners will be chosen by random.org.  

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