Monday, September 30, 2013

Wish Upon A Star


Wish Upon A Star by Michelle McLean

 
This book took an unexpected turn for me.  I thought that I was getting into a romance by the blurb, but got a whole lot more.  I liked that the zombie rising was also a part of this lost love idea.  Who would have ever thought that the two could work?  Well this works, and works well.  My only complaint, it was too short.

Synopsis:

Ceri McKinley never stopped wishing that her ex-fiancĂ© Jason Crickett would come back into her life. But when he finally does, he comes with a request that puts them both—and all of humanity—into jeopardy.

Jason only wants two things: to bury his brother properly and to convince Ceri to trust him again after he jilted her. But when Ceri agrees to help him get his brother back, they end up fighting for their lives as the second zombie uprising threatens them all.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Grimnirs Cover Reveal

 

Book Title: Grimnirs
Series: A Runes Novel
Author: Ednah Walters
Release Date: December 2nd 2013
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Firetrail Publishing
Banner Made by: Camelia Miron Skiba

 
 

BLURB

One lost love.

One lost best friend.

One hot soul reaper.

Straight out of the psyche ward, Cora just wants her life to be normal. She doesn't want to see souls or the reapers collecting them. The love of her life, the guy she's loved from a distance for years, has moved away without saying goodbye. So yes, she's nursing a serious heartbreak. It's no wonder love is the last thing on her mind when Echo storms into her life.

The chemistry between them is mind-blowing. The connection defies logic. It doesn't help that Echo is the poster boy for everything she hates in a guy—hot, beautiful, and cocky. A general pain-in-the-butt. Being around him makes her feel more alive than she's ever felt before. But more important, the souls leave her alone when he is around.

Echo is perfect for her. Echo might even be her soul-mate. There is only one problem. Echo is a freaking soul reaper. A Grimnir. The very beings she wants out of her life. Maybe normal is overrated because Cora wants it all. Answers. Love. A life. You see, once you fall for a Grimnir, your life will never be the same again.



 
AUTHOR BIO
EDNAH WALTERS grew up reading Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys and dreaming of one day writing her own stories. She is a stay-at-home mother of five humans and two American short-hair cats (one of which has ADHD) and a husband. When she is not writing, she's at the gym doing Zumba or doing things with her family, reading, traveling or online chatting with fans.

Ednah is the author of The Guardian Legacy series, a YA fantasy series about children of the fallen angels, who fight demons and protect mankind. AWAKENED, the prequel was released by Pill Hill Press in September 2010 with rave reviews. BETRAYED, book one in the series was released by her new publisher Spencer Hill Press in June 2012 and HUNTED, the third installment, will be released April 2013. She's working on the next book in the series, FORGOTTEN. Visit her at www.ednahwalters.com

Ednah also writes YA paranormal romance. RUNES is the first book in her new series. IMMORTALS is book 2. She is presently working on book 3, GRIMNIRS (Release date TBA). Read more about this series and the world she's created here www.runestheseries.com

Under the pseudonym E. B. Walters, Ednah writes contemporary romance. SLOW BURN, the first contemporary romance with suspense, was released in April 2011. It is the first book in the Fitzgerald family series. Since then she has published four more books in this series. She's presently working on book six. You can visit her online at or www.ebwalters.com.


AUTHOR LINKS

BOOK LINKS



Thursday, September 26, 2013

Born Wild

Born Wild by Julie Ann Walker
  

Born Wild is the fifth installment in the Black Knights, Inc series by Julie Ann Walker.  This book was action packed, full of drama, and even had romance. 

I am almost afraid to start a series right in the middle of the books, but I did not feel this book was a series and it had great stand alone quality.  The plot was good, the story did not lag and the characters were good.  All the requirements for a good read.

Synopsis:

She's got three rules:

1. Trust no one… Eve Edens has been abandoned, used, or manipulated by almost everyone she's ever met. Born into ridiculous wealth, she's dealt with the petty jealousies and sordid little resentments for nearly thirty years. But after three botched attempts on her life, she can no longer ignore the truth. Someone wants her dead.

2. Avoid the bad boys at all costs… William "Wild Bill" Reichert, the wonderfully sexy boy who abandoned her years ago, is back in town. Only he's no boy. Now he's a covert operative - and he's all man. When Eve hires Bill to help her discover who is behind the attacks, Bill soon comes to suspect it's someone much closer to Eve than she dares to believe.

3. And never fall for the same ruse twice… The search for the killer takes Bill and Eve deep into the dark secrets and strange world of the rich and famous, and into the heart of red-hot passion re-ignited by the peril that threatens to consume them both. But does Eve dare risk her heart on Bill a second time?

MoonBound Vampire Clan by Larisssa Ione


Bound By Night (MoonBound Clan Vampires #1)
by Larissa Ione

Bound By Night is the first book in the MoonBound Clan Vampires series by Larissa Ione and was a pretty good start to this series. 

As in every series the first book may seem slightly slow due to the back story.  This series starter was no different, but was a solid read nonetheless.  Ione has set the world for her vampires and so far it is quite an interesting mix of characters, villains, and hints of surprises to come. 

I liked this book from the start and the cover looks familiar although I’m not sure why.  The intriguing cast of characters developed nicely keeping my attention and not lagging all that much.  I loved the idea of Stockholm syndrome with falling in love with the kidnapper, but if Riker took me I’m sure I would feel the same way.  I also want to know more about Hunter and Myne and their past and following them to their HEA.

Synopsis:

The first installment in a sexy new paranormal romance series by Larissa Ione, author of the bestselling Demonica series!

A WOMAN OUT FOR BLOOD
Nicole Martin was only eight years old when the vampire slaves rose up in rebellion and killed her family. Now she devotes her life to finding a vaccine against vampirism, hoping to wipe out her memories—along with every bloodsucker on the planet. But there’s one thing she cannot destroy: her searing, undeniable attraction for the one man she should hate and fear the most . . .

A VAMPIRE OUT FOR REVENGE
A member of the renegade vampire MoonBound Clan, Riker is haunted by demons of his own. When he recognizes Nicole and remembers how her family enslaved his loved ones, his heart burns for vengeance. But when he kidnaps Nicole and holds her in a secret lair, his mortal enemy becomes his soul obsession, his greatest temptation, and, perhaps, his only salvation—a hot-blooded lover who could heal him with her touch . . . or bury him forever.

Demon Rock Series by Nico Rosso


Heavy Metal Heart (Demon Rock #1)
by Nico Rosso

Heavy Metal Heart is the initial installment in the Demon Rock series by Nico Rosso. 

I love rocker books, hot guys, good covers, and paranormal.  So what’s not to love in this book right?  Well there is always room for improvement. This series has potential to be great but unfortunately fell kind of flat for me.

I was a little thrown off by the quirky lyrics that come out of nowhere.  And I would have like a great deal more back story.  I really think this huge factor is what did me in.  I love paranormal books as I said above, but a great paranormal book had to have a great story.  This whole demon that exists on fan power and a muse idea is unique to me, but I would have like more history on the reason the characters are demons and exactly who these creatures they are fighting and a more in depth reason why. 

Overall, this short book left me with more questions than answers, felt rushed and didn’t meet my expectations.  This is the first book that I have read by this author and I would give the second installment a try.  Like I said this is a jewel in the ruff with a little TLC this series could be great.

Synopsis:

Rock Star. Front man. Demon. A descendant of satyrs and the lead singer in a band that feeds on the energy of its audience, Trevor Sand is growing weary of the constant need to perform. He needs the legend of the Muse—a woman destined to be a demon’s eternal companion and only source of sustenance—to be true.

Misty Grant has never been bold, but when Trevor singles her out among hundreds at a concert, she takes him up on his explicit offer. During an erotic night in his hotel room, she learns that his touch is as electric as his lyrics. But when Trevor’s demon is aroused, her desire turns to horror and she runs.

Knowing that he’ll die if he loses her, Trevor must find Misty before his enemies do. But even if he can save her, he knows that regaining the trust of his fated Muse will be his greatest challenge.

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Feature and Follow # 10



Q: What were some of your favorite picture books as a kid? If you have kids, what are your favorites to read to them?








Looking back I loved these books so much!!!  Great question this week.


Fetch Series by Kat Falls


Inhuman (Fetch#1)
 by Kat Falls
 
This first installment of the Fetch series, Inhuman, was good!  I usually don’t read dystopian books, I really don’t like them.  This book drew me in, held my interest and left me wanting more. 

I felt this book is almost zombie-ish than dystopian, but not reading the genre I really am not the one to say.  I did like this book.   I liked the love triangle and that everyone was trying to help Lane.  I also liked the fact that Lane was willing to put herself on the line for her father. 

I felt the plot was entertaining and interesting.  The writing was great and well thought out.  The characters were multidimensional and very raw.  I can’t wait for more of the Fetch series.  

Synopsis:

In a world ravaged by mutation, a teenage girl must travel into the forbidden Savage Zone to recover lost artifacts or her father’s life is forfeit.

America has been ravaged by a war that has left the eastern half of the country riddled with mutation. Many of the people there exhibit varying degrees of animal traits. Even the plantlife has gone feral.

Crossing from west to east is supposed to be forbidden, but sometimes it’s necessary. Some enter the Savage Zone to provide humanitarian relief. Sixteen-year-old Lane’s father goes there to retrieve lost artifacts—he is a Fetch. It’s a dangerous life, but rewarding—until he’s caught.

Desperate to save her father, Lane agrees to complete his latest job. That means leaving behind her life of comfort and risking life and limb—and her very DNA—in the Savage Zone. But she’s not alone. In order to complete her objective, Lane strikes a deal with handsome, roguish Rafe. In exchange for his help as a guide, Lane is supposed to sneak him back west. But though Rafe doesn’t exhibit any signs of “manimal” mutation, he’s hardly civilized . . . and he may not be trustworthy.

 

This book was in an ebook exclusive Waiting To Catch Fire? three books to read while you wait from Scholastic books.  Inhuman was the first book in this pack.  The other two books contained chapters from The Darkest Path by Jeff Hirsch and The Bar Code Prophecy by Suzanne Weyn.

The Striker's Chance

The Striker’s Chance by Rebecca Crowley

 

I love sports inspired romances and this book did not let me down.  I don’t know anything about soccer and didn’t need to in this book.  I did not feel lost in the game but rather swept up in the book.

The Striker’s Chance was the perfect goal.  I liked the fast paced forbidden romance.  It was a light refreshing read.  Carina Press never lets me down.  Too bad this is not a series; I would love to read more about team Discovery from NC.

Synopsis:

Landing the PR contract for North Carolina's new soccer team could take Holly Taylor's career to the next level. Her task? Make Kepler "Killer" de Klerk, an athlete with a party-hard reputation, a star. But revamping the sexy footballer's image while battling her unwanted attraction to him is easier said than done.

The car accident that derailed Kepler's European career also gave him some much-needed perspective. He's ready to give up on fame and focus on the game he loves. The last thing he needs is a headstrong brunette pushing him back into the spotlight, even if butting heads with her is the most fun he's had in ages.

The more time Holly spends with Kepler, the more she sees how different he is from his tabloid persona. But when she's offered her dream job for a price, she finds herself torn between the career she's spent years building and the man she doesn't want to give up.

Heart

Heart by Susan Ross and Susan Rau Stocker

 
 
I didn’t realize that this book was written around the time I was born until I went on Goodreads to post my review.  That being said, I am not sure how I feel about this book.  As I was reading I thought that this book felt dated, or maybe it was just too drawn out for me. I know this is just me.  I have a hard time getting into books that span lengths of time. 

I thought that the plot was fluff, the characters were ok, but I felt no connection to them.  I just do not think that the book can compete with today’s authors, but was probably a best seller during its peak.  Lesson to be learned great books in the 80’s do not translate well for today’s readers.

Synopsis:

College teaching assistant Ruth Tyack is excitedly planning for a new job in Rome when she falls in love with Tom, a poet and guest-lecturer at the college. Despite their intense feelings for each other, Ruth and Tom must part after a single romantic together. Tom is married and has too much respect for his wife and a deep bond with his special needs’ son. In Italy, Ruth is caught up in a whirlwind romance with Bruno, the scion of an aristocratic family. Their marriage is happy but brief as Bruno is killed in an auto accident and, in her grief, Ruth turns to his handsome cousin, Peter, who has long been in love with her. But once remarried, Peter demands that Ruth model herself after other wives of wealthy Italians—docile homemakers and mothers who look the other way when their husbands have affairs. As her unhappiness grows, Ruth keeps returning to her feelings for Tom and the love that has never been extinguished. Having kept in touch with him over the years, she’s been deeply affected by his personal tragedy and the anguish he faced as his wife suffered a series of breakdowns and was committed to an institution. Should she remain in an increasingly untenable marriage or follow her heart? The rerelease of this bestselling contemporary romance has been updated to include three new chapters which reveal the path she takes.

Sometimes Never, Sometimes Always


Sometimes Never, Sometimes Always by Elissa Janine Hoole

  
 
 

Ok to be honest with you this book caught my eye because of the cover and I thought with a cover like that the story must be good, right?  Well the story was not bad, but I just didn’t feel connected to this book.

The start of the book focused on religion and how religious Cass and her family are.  Then it focuses on being gay and then on bullying.  I felt torn.  I felt like there were too many concepts under one cover.

Overall, the writing was good, the characters were ok, and the plot had too much going on.  It was not a bad book by all means, just had a bit too much going on for my taste.

Synopsis:

Cassandra fears rocking the family boat. Instead, she sinks it. Assigned by her English teacher to write a poem that reveals her true self, Cassandra Randall is stuck. Her family's religion is so overbearing, she can NEVER write about who she truly is. So Cass does what any self-respecting high school girl would do: she secretly begins writing a tarot-inspired advice blog. When Drew Godfrey, an awkward outcast with unwashed hair, writes to her, the situation spirals into what the school calls "a cyberbullying crisis" and what the church calls "sorcery." Cass wants to be the kind of person who sticks up for the persecuted, who protects the victims the way she tries to protect her brother from the homophobes in her church. But what if she's just another bully? What will it take for her to step up and tell the truth?

Wildefire Series by Ella Grace


Midnight Lies (Wildefire #2) by Ella Grace
 
Midnight Lies is the second installment in the Wildefire series by Ella Grace.  I saw the blurb and had to read this book.  I am a true southern girl and love a southern setting.  Being from Alabama I try to read all the books set in this state.  I got a winner with Midnight Lies. 

I was happy that this book progressed nicely, has good characters and has a follow up book. A must have checklist for a perfect book. The plot had a great mix of romance and mystery and the southern setting was a plus. 

I will be checking out the rest of this series and more books by this author.

Synopsis:

The Wilde sisters of Midnight return in this thrilling novel of romantic suspense, perfect for fans of Maya Banks, Allison Brennan, and Lori Foster.

IT’S ALWAYS HOTTER AT MIDNIGHT.

The winds of fate have blown cruelly on a family that once had it all: money, power, prestige. The lives of three beautiful daughters were forever changed when, on a sultry night in Midnight, Alabama, a murder-suicide shattered the Wilde family. The girls grew up to live separate lives but now have returned home, each to face a danger no one can see coming.

Former homecoming queen Samantha surprised everyone by going into law enforcement, but beneath her tough façade lies a wary heart. The tragedy that struck her family is an ever-present reminder that nothing is ever as it seems. When the man she loves, Quinn Braddock, a doctor and Iraq war veteran, is accused of murder, Samantha assumes the worst. Brokenhearted, her confidence shattered, she returns to Midnight. Though exonerated, Quinn still feels the sting of Samantha’s doubt, but he can’t forget his feelings for her and follows her. Soon after his arrival, a shocking murder terrifies the town, and once again, Quinn is under suspicion. This time, Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves—even if it means walking into a killer’s trap.

Woodlands Series by Jen Frederick

Unspoken (Woodlands #2)
by Jen Frederick

I was blown away with Unspoken.  This is the second installment of the Woodlands series by Jen Frederick and what a beautiful experience it was.  This Beautiful Disaster meets Gossip Girl book hooked me from the start.  Pages started turning and before you know the book has ended and I really didn’t want it to.

The characters Ms. Frederick created for this book was spot on, believable and unforgettable.  Bo is hot.  AM is strong.  Together they make the perfect couple.

The plot progressed nicely, and the ending was sweet.  I really enjoyed this book.  The fighter meets girl with bad reputation who are both hiding a past is a great plot.

 I will be going back to read the first book in this series and will follow the rest of the series.  Ms. Frederick you have yourself a new super fan!

Synopsis:

Whore. Slut. Typhoid Mary.

I've been called all these at Central College. One drunken night, one act of irresponsible behavior, and my reputation was ruined. Guys labeled me as easy and girls shied away. To cope, I stayed away from Central social life and away from Central men, so why is it that my new biology lab partner is so irresistible to me?

He's everything I shouldn't want. A former Marine involved in illegal fighting with a quick trigger temper and an easy smile for all the women. His fists aren't the danger to me, though, it's his charm. He's sliding his way into my heart and I'm afraid that he's going to be the one to break me.

Impulsive. Unthinking. Hot tempered.

I allow instinct to rule my behavior. If it feels good, do it, has been my motto because if I spend too much time thinking, I'll begin to remember exactly where I came from. At Central College, I've got fighting and I've got women and I thought I was satisfied until I met her.

She's everything I didn't realize I wanted and the more time I spend with her, the more I want her. But she's been hurt too much in the past and I don't want to be the one to break her. I know I should walk away, but I just can't.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Feature and Follow # 9

Feature and Follow # 9


 
Q: It is up to you to do a Kickstarter campaign for your favorite book!!! Who are you casting for the main characters?
 
A: I fell in love with the Blackstone Affair when I read book two.  I know right, who starts a series with book two.  Needless to say, I went back and read and reread this series.  I am competely engulfed with this series.  So here is my cast.
 
Ethan Blackstone
 
 

Brynne Bennett







Saturday, September 14, 2013

The Alexander's Series by M. Malone

He’s the Man (The Alexander’s # 3)
 by M. Malone
He’s the Man is the third installment in the Alexander’s series by M. Malone.  I have not read any previous books in this series.  I consider myself to be the series queen and tend to grab book that have sequels.  Having proclaimed my series status, I think that I am a fairly good series reviewer.  This book has great stand alone quality.  I did not feel myself getting lost or struggling through this book.  I liked this book enough to go back and read the first books in this series, but do not feel vested enough to start them right now.  Overall, this book was a pleasant reading experience.

Synopsis:

Matt Simmons is over Army doctors poking him. But when his sister won't stop nagging him to see their old babysitter, now a sought after physical therapist, he gives in just to get some peace.

Penny is finally putting down roots after a lifetime of moving around. She’s got everything she wants, except the settled suburban life she longs for. All she needs is the perfect guy, which means NO military men.

When Matt realizes that his old babysitter is h-o-t, he’s suddenly seeing the benefits of therapy. But Penny still sees him as the bratty kid she used to babysit.

Suddenly he has a new mission in life…

WARNING
The book contains an elderly lothario, a heroine who's not afraid to get in your face, and the kind of sex therapy that med school doesn't teach.

The Sullivans by Bella Andre

I Only Have Eyes For You (Sullivans #4)
by Bella Andre
 

This is the first book that I have read by Bella Andre.  So of course I was nervous reading the Sullivans # 4, I Only Have Eyes For You, because starting in the middle of a series and myself do not agree.  I am so happy I pick this book up.  It is sure to be my new favorite romance series and I will be checking out more of this author’s books.

These characters are a great addition to your bookshelf and the I want to be in the Sullivan’s family so I can snag me a hottie like Jake.

Jake is the bad boy form the wrong side of town who thinks he is not good enough.  Sweet Sophie is the overlooked good girl who is shy and has loved Jake since she can remember.  The chemistry between the two is off the charts and there were several times that I thought that the pages were going to catch fire.  Needless to say, I loved this book and will be devouring the rest of this series. 

Synopsis:
 

The sweetest temptation...

Sophie Sullivan fell head over heels for Jake McCann at the age of five. Twenty years later, the notorious bad boy still sees her as the "nice" Sullivan twin. When they both get caught up in the magic of the first Sullivan wedding, she knows it's time to make him see her for who she truly is…the woman who will love him forever.

Jake has always been a magnet for women, but the only woman he really wants is the one he can never have. Not only is Sophie his best friend's off-limits sister…he can't risk letting her get close enough to discover his deeply hidden secret.

But when Sophie appears on his doorstep, Jake's every fantasy comes to life, and he doesn't have a hope of taking his eyes, or hands, off her. Jake knows loving Sophie isn't the right thing to do, but one look at her and he knows he can't possibly resist.

Truth Seers Series by Derba Mullins


Prodigal Son (Truth Seers #1)
 by Debra Mullins

3.5 Stars

Prodigal Son is the first installment in the Truth Seeres series by Debra Mullins.  This book had the perfect mix of action, romance, and paranormal for me.  It took me a few chapters to have me completely engulfed but soon after the pages turned without hesitation.

The seers are decedents from an ancient line of not quite humans and can see where people are in the world, glimpses of the future, and if they are going to die.  Being a seer makes Rafe Montana a great bounty hunter.  After completing a case, he is on the look out for a new adventure in bounty hunting.  When he views the files he comes across a low ball case, but sees that the perps stepsister, Cara, will die.  Not wanting to get involved but not wanting someone to die, Rafe takes the case. 

The actions starts immediately and the case takes a turn for the Cara becomes brain washed by someone.

I really liked this one.  The action and adventure was right up my alley and the chemistry was spot on.  If the rest of this series keeps the pace of this installment it is sure to be a hit.

Synopsis:

Prodigal Son—the new paranormal romance from acclaimed historical romance author Debra Mullins

Bounty hunter Rafe Montana is a Seer, descended from the fabled Atlanteans. He uses his inherited power to “see” criminals across the globe and track them down, and he’s just started on a new case. Danny Cangialosi is accused of disappearing with a stolen car…but for the first time in his life, when Rafe goes looking, he is unable to “see” him. Instead, his search leads him to Danny’s stubborn, meddling, and very cute stepsister, Cara McGaffigan.

Cara is looking for Danny, too, but not to turn him in. He is her brother, after all, and she’s convinced he has a good heart. If she can just find him before the cops do, she’ll figure out a way to get him out of this. But Cara didn’t count on a scorching-hot bounty hunter getting in her way.

Despite instant chemistry, Rafe and Cara know they’re never going to see eye-to-eye when it comes to Danny. What they don’t know is that Danny didn’t just steal a car—he stole a precious stone, a stone right out of the legends of Atlantis. It holds powers they can only dream of…and its owner wants it back.

Not Your Ordinary Wolf Girl

Not Your Ordinary Wolf Girl
by Emily Pohl-Weary

 
This cover and blurb provoked me until I clicked request from Netgalley.  I loved the premise of this book.  Rock stars and werewolves are two of my all time favorite genres so I thought that this book would be awesome.  It kind of fell flat and was just ok.  I was expecting much more mainly because I have read some great books in both genres to compare this book to.

The main character Sam got herself in some sticky situations.  She also seemed to have some pretty serious phobias which kinda got on my nerves a bit.  I did like the fact that there was a love triangle starting to play in the plot.  I like Harris though he was serious with his girlfriend and the broke it off to pursue Sam.  I also liked Marlon even though he was creepy and stalkerish.

All in all this was a fun book.

Synopsis:

Sometimes Living in the Big Apple Really Bites!

Eighteen-year-old rock star Sam Lee isn't like other girls. She's the super-talented bass player and songwriter for an all-girl indie band and an incurable loner. Then one night after a concert in Central Park, she's attacked by a wild dog.

Suddenly, this long-time vegetarian is craving meat--the bloodier, the better. Sam finds herself with an unbelievable secret and no one she trusts to share it. And so begin the endless lies to cover up the hairy truth...

When a new girl gang appears in the city--with claws and paws--Sam suspects there's a connection to her own inner beast. Trapped in a tug-of-war between her animal and human selves, forced to choose between the guy who sparked her carnal appetite and the one who makes her feel like a normal teenage girl, Sam has to unravel the mysteries of the werewolf world before her bandmates, her mother, and the media catch up to her.

Sick

Sick by Tom Leveen
 

3 Stars
Sick is one of the many, many books out there with the zombie’s as the plot and main characters.  I have only read one other zombie book, so I don’t have much to compare this book to.  I have however read many YA’s and this book dialogue was a bit much for a YA.  It was almost as if the kids were talking like they were adults and not having much slang in this book.  I did, however, like the zombie action and the teenage survivor feel to the book.  I really didn’t get The Breakfast Club feel but that is a great movie and comparing this book to something that great was just wrong.  I also am a huge fan of The Walking Dead so I did get the connection there.

Synopsis:

Brian and his friends are not part of the cool crowd. They’re the misfits and the troublemakers—the ones who jump their high school’s fence to skip class regularly. So when a deadly virus breaks out, they’re the only ones with a chance of surviving.

The virus turns Brian’s classmates and teachers into bloodthirsty attackers who don’t die easily. The whole school goes on lockdown, but Brian and his best friend, Chad, are safe (and stuck) in the theater department—far from Brian’s sister, Kenzie, and his ex-girlfriend with a panic attack problem, Laura. Brian and Chad, along with some of the theater kids Brian had never given the time of day before, decide to find the girls and bring them to the safety of the theater. But it won’t be easy, and it will test everything they thought they knew about themselves and their classmates.

Pretty Dark Nothing by Heather L. Reid


Pretty Dark Nothing by Heather L. Reid

 3.5 Stars
Pretty Dark Nothing is the first book in the self titled series.  The first thing that drew me to this book is the beautiful cover.  I was absolutely taken back by its eerie feel.  I read the synopsis and thought I would be interested.  Then I made the mistake of looking on different websites to read reviews, I saw that the reviews were low and I thought that I had made a big mistake by picking this one.  I was wrong.  I really liked this book.  It just goes to show you readers like different things.  That’s why I am glad there are all kinds of reviewers out there.

The blurb was kind of deceitful in focusing on these demons and dreams because the book mostly focused on the regular high school drama and romance.  And of course YA books are full of teenage angst, which this book had.  But I found myself wrapped up in the characters and plot and of course liked the drama as well.  I thought that this book was believable with the plot and characters and teens are so unpredictable these days so the plot change ups did not bother me.  I am a YA lover, but have found myself reading more NA since the new genre category came out but this book brought me back to my roots.  This is definitely a YA series to look out for.   

Synopsis:

It’s been twenty three days since Quinn has slept for more than minutes at a time. Demons have invaded her dreams, stalking her, and whispering of her death. The lack of sleep and crippling fear are ruining her life. Energy drinks and caffeine pills don’t make a dent. When Quinn dozes off in the school hallway, Aaron, an amnesiac with a psychic ability, accidentally enters her nightmare. The demons are determined to keep them apart, and Aaron from discovering the secret locked away in his memory. Together, they could banish the darkness back to the underworld for good. That is, unless the demons kill them first.

The Rephaim Series by Paula Weston

Shadows by Paula Weston

4 Stars

The series premier Shadows is a great starts to The Rephaim series by Paula Weston.  I usually do not like urban fantasy books, but I like this book.  I read this synopsis and thought I would give it a try.  I am so glad I did.  I really got sucked into Ms. Weston’s world of Angles and Demons, the pages started turning, and before you know it I am now a fan of this author’s urban fantasy. 

The plot was great, the characters were enjoyable, and the mystery was interesting.  What more can you want?  This book had a paranormal feel and piqued my interest with the New Adult vibe and unique plot.  I immediately connected with the characters and fell in love with Rafa.  I highly recommend this book for a new take on the Angels and Demons genre. 

Synopsis:

It’s almost a year since Gaby Winters was in the car crash that killed her twin brother, Jude. Her body has healed in the sunshine of Pandanus Beach, but her grief is raw and constant. It doesn’t help that every night in her dreams she kills demons and other hell-spawn.

And then Rafa comes to town. Not only does he look exactly like the guy who’s been appearing in Gaby’s dreams—he claims a history with her brother that makes no sense. Gaby is forced to accept that what she thought she knew about herself and her life is only a shadow of the truth—and that the truth is more likely to be found in the shadows of her nightmares.

Who is Rafa? Who are the Rephaim? And most importantly, who can she trust?

Fast-paced and gripping, Shadows, the first book in the Rephaim series, is a standout paranormal romance for fans of Richelle Mead and Cassandra Clare.

 

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Untamed Blog Tour



Synopsis
A love too strong to be tamed: the true story of Tarzan, and the woman who loved him.

In 1908, on a mission to find a new breed of ape in central Africa, an unfathomable thing is discovered – a wild, white man, living amongst gorillas. Local villagers call him matokeo ya utafutaji kwa, the untamed one.

Joining the team of hunters and trackers searching for matokeo ya utafutaji kwa is Arianna Day, the 21-year-old niece of the expedition’s leader. She catches the untamed one’s eye and, believing she is meant for him, he takes her captive and claims her for his own, body and soul.

When Arianna is rescued, the untamed one is captured, and they are sent their separate ways: the wild man to learn language and social skills he’d long forgotten, Arianna back home to England to try to fit back into her old life. A promising marriage proposal awaits, but thoughts of the untamed one haunts her.

Amidst the backdrop of London in the summer of 1908, as the Olympic Games are hosted and the Franko-British Exhibition is held, the now-civilized wild man returns home, with his original name restored: Sebastian or ‘Zan' Shaffer. He and Arianna are drawn together again only to be ripped apart by social convention and Marshall Derringer, the man determined to have her as his wife. But Zan is not the only one with an untamed heart…



 
Bio:
Originally from Southern Indiana, (born in Evansville, grew up in
Newburgh,) I now reside in Greensboro, North Carolina. My day job is that
of a real estate agent, although the goal is become a full time writer ...
who actually eats regularly and pays the bills. I'm exceedingly proud of my
young adult daughters, Mackenzie, Allyson and Hayley. They're lovely and
wacky and smart and basically my favorite people on earth.

If I had to describe myself . . . I'd say upbeat, highly imaginative,
passionate, restless, easily bored, humorous, stubborn, spiritual and truly
blessed.

I love writing. I love getting caught up in another time and place.
Honestly - it's often a disappointment to have to return to reality. My
favorite genre tends to be whatever I'm working on at the moment. I write
historical fiction, action/adventure, suspense, fantasy and more, all of it
with an element of romance to it.

That's about it, but if you want to know more, read my stuff. I'm in every
page.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Slumber Blog Tour, Guest Post, & Giveaway


Synopsis:


Once upon a time, Ruby believed in magic…

When Ruby volunteers to take her mother's housecleaning shift at the gothic Cottingley Heights mansion, she thinks it's going to be business as usual. Clean out the fridge, scrub toilets, nothing too unusual. But nothing could prepare her for the decadent squalor she finds within. Rich people with more money than sense trashing their beautiful clothes and home just because they can. After the handsome Tam discovers her cleaning up after him and his rich friends, Ruby has never felt more like a character from her sister’s book of fairy tales.

Tam sees beyond Ruby’s job and ratty clothes, and sweeps her off her feet, treating her like a real princess, but Ruby is sure this beautiful boy is too good to be true. And as one tragedy after another befalls Ruby and her family, Ruby painfully learns that magic is all too real, and it always comes with a price.




Kathleen Bolton is a professional writer and editor. Currently, she is a contracted writer to Working Partners, Ltd. Her projects include Confessions of a First Daughter, a YA series about the misadventures of the U.S. President’s teen-aged daughter, and Secrets of a First Daughter, both published by HarperCollins Teen, under the pen name Cassidy Calloway. Her current project, Slumber, under the pen name Tamara Blake, released July of 2013 and is a dark suspense fantasy novel for teens. She is the co-founder of Writer Unboxed, one of the foremost online communities for writers of fiction.

Kathleen lives with her husband and daughter in upstate New York.

Visit her AuthorTracker webpage at HarperCollins Publishing, or Goodreads for more.

ABOUT SLUMBER

Once upon a time, Ruby believed in magic…

When Ruby volunteers to take her mother's housecleaning shift at the gothic Cottingley Heights mansion, she thinks it's going to be business as usual. Clean out the fridge, scrub toilets, nothing too unusual. But nothing could prepare her for the decadent squalor she finds within. Rich people with more money than sense trashing their beautiful clothes and home just because they can. After the handsome Tam discovers her cleaning up after him and his rich friends, Ruby has never felt more like a character from her sister’s book of fairy tales.

Tam sees beyond Ruby’s job and ratty clothes, and sweeps her off her feet, treating her like a real princess, but Ruby is sure this beautiful boy is too good to be true. And as one tragedy after another befalls Ruby and her family, Ruby painfully learns that magic is all too real, and it always comes with a price. 


Guest Post
The Shapeshifter Hero
By Kathleen Bolton, author of SLUMBER under the pen name Tamara Blake
Thank you for inviting me to guest with you today. My latest book, SLUMBER, written in collaboration with the phenomenal editorial team at Working Partners Ltd., is a dark twist on fairy tales, and I had a blast taking familiar tropes and mixing them up. One of those tropes in paranormal fiction is the shapeshifter character. Mysterious, magical, and downright inhuman at times, the shapeshifter hero holds a special fascination for me. As a reader, I love stories where shapeshifters glide on the edge of magic and reality, especially when stories are in a contemporary setting. As a writer, anything is possible with a character who can go anywhere, be anything, yet who has to struggle to adapt when emotions such as love complicates his life. In Slumber, Tam, the hero, is a good example of a shapeshifter who struggles with a magic nature that longs to love a human.
Tam is literally a shapeshifter, a magic creature in the guise of a human. For the first half of the novel, he appears to the heroine Ruby (and the reader) as a rich, glamorous, handsome young man set on sweeping Ruby off her feet, a prince driving a Mercedes roadster wearing hipster clothes. He seems to be too good to be true. He is.
Midway through the book he reveals himself to be a supernatural creature – a fey – immortal, beautiful, and untrustworthy. Ruby is shocked by his decadent lifestyle. But at the same time she is also attracted to the luxury and ease he offers her. She (and we) are repelled and fascinated with life at mysterious Cottingley mansion. Ruby is confused by the fact that Tam seems to be so into her, when he could have anyone.
Despite his capricious nature, Tam seems to have fallen hard for Ruby. Ruby’s strong moral compass and steadfast resolve to save her family both attracts and frustrates him. He cannot understand why Ruby wouldn’t abandon her loved ones to come and live the carefree, luxurious life at Cottingley – after all, he’s never had that problem persuading other human girls who came before her. In true shapeshifter fashion, Tam tries all his tricks to tempt Ruby into succumbing to his charms. But Ruby’s no pushover – and Tam is baffled by her resistance. Little by little, it is Tam who is changed by Ruby, setting them both on a collision course with disaster.
As a writer, it was fun to plumb the depths of Tam’s internal conflict, and infuse his actions with different implications, depending upon which lens we are viewing him. Was Tam being helpful to Ruby? Or a trickster? Who is he really tricking? Ruby – or himself?
Shapeshifter heroes offer writers limitless possibilities, which is why the paranormal genre is going full steam ahead. Vampires, werewolves, fey, androids or other types of shapeshifter characters devised by creative writers have kept the genre exciting and evolving. Shapeshifter fiction shows no signs of slowing down, which is fantastic news for readers and writers of these types of stories.
Kathleen Bolton is a professional writer and editor. Currently, she is a contracted writer to Working Partners, Ltd. Her current project, Slumber, under the pen name Tamara Blake, is a dark suspense fantasy novel for teens. Her projects also include Confessions of a First Daughter, a YA series about the misadventures of the U.S. President’s teen-aged daughter, and Secrets of a First Daughter, both published by HarperCollins Teen, under the pen name Cassidy Calloway. She is the co-founder of Writer Unboxed, one of the foremost online communities for writers of fiction.
Kathleen lives with her husband and daughter in upstate New York.
Visit her AuthorTracker webpage at HarperCollins Publishing, or Goodreads for more.