Saturday, November 30, 2013

The Watcher Book Blitz and $25 Amazon GC Giveaway


The Watcher
by Lisa Voisin
Release Date: 03/04/13


Summary from Goodreads:
Millennia ago, he fell from heaven for her.

Can he face her without falling again?

Fascinated with ancient civilizations, seventeen-year-old Mia Crawford dreams of becoming an archaeologist. She also dreams of wings—soft and silent like snow—and somebody trying to steal them.

When a horrible creature appears out of thin air and attacks her, she knows Michael Fontaine is involved, though he claims to know nothing about it. Secretive and aloof, Michael evokes feelings in Mia that she doesn’t understand. Images of another time and place haunt her. She recognizes them—but not from any textbook.

In search of the truth, Mia discovers a past life of forbidden love, jealousy and revenge that tore an angel from Heaven and sent her to an early grave. Now that her soul has returned, does she have a chance at loving that angel again? Or will an age-old nemesis destroy them both?

Ancient history is only the beginning.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13665100-the-watcher?ac=1

Buy Links:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/14C9d4T
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/16XyvYN
Inkspell Publishing: http://bit.ly/13z1ncg

The Book Trailer:

http://youtu.be/ukoCDlW05-Y

Praise for The Watcher:

"Voisin's THE WATCHER blends paranormal mystery and romance into a book that is sure to keep readers turning the pages late into the night."
-- Eileen Cook, author of THE ALMOST TRUTH

"Perfect for fans of angels and demons, Lisa Voisin has created an uplifting tale of redemption, love, and spirituality that gives hope. Never preachy, THE WATCHER is the perfect answer to critics who claim Young Adult literature is too dark."
-- Stephanie Lawton, author of WANT and SHRAPNEL

"The Watcher is stunning! A paranormal romance that you won't want to put down. Voisin will enthrall you until the very last page."
-- Stephanie Keyes, author, THE STAR CHILD series

"Grips the reader, pulls them in and leaves them cheering for good!"
-- InD'tale Magazine

“The Watcher is my favorite angel fiction tale yet.”
-- Katrina @Kindred Dreamheart

“This book is phenomenal! I was hooked in right away and didn't want to stop.”
-- Michelle @Michelle’s Paranormal Vault

Interview with Lisa Voisin – Author of The Watcher

1. What’s your favorite novel and why?
I had so many favorite novels, but the one I’ve loved the longest is Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. It’s about an apocalypse gone wrong, and it was the first time I’d read a book with an angel and a demon in it. I was hooked! I love Neil Gaiman’s dark sense of foreboding and Terry Pratchett’s humor!

2. How did the idea for The Watcher come about?
I started working on The Watcher in 2009, but the story started in my mind three years before that. I had an idea about a boy who woke up one day to discover he was an angel. It wasn’t until the idea of Mia came to me that it all came together. I felt it was best to pair him with a human girl who was the only one who could see who he really was.

3. Which of your characters is your favorite and why?
Michael is my favorite character, because he's been with me the longest. But I have to admit, Damiel was the most fun to write. It made me think of famous actors who say they have the most fun playing villains.

4. If you were in The Watcher, which character would you want to be?
Arielle. She’s really got a good head on her shoulders and a good heart. She’s also pretty kickass.

5. If your book was made into a movie who would you envision in the leading roles?
I'd love to see a young Henry Cavill (pre-Superman) as Michael. There’s something very clean and delightful about him. Mia I picture as being a bit like Emilia Clarke. I’ve got pictures on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lvoisin/the-watcher-inspiration-board-and-read-along/

6. Are any books that you've read and thought "I wish I'd written that"?
Oh! There have been so many it's hard to count! Most recently, I'd have to say The Fault in Our Stars, because it was amazing. I also adored Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

About the Author
A Canadian-born author, Lisa Voisin spent her childhood daydreaming and making up stories, but it was her love of reading and writing in her teens that drew her to Young Adult fiction. In her spare time, she  HYPERLINK "http://www.traininginpower.com/" \t "_blank" teaches meditation . So when she's not writing, you'll find her meditating or hiking in the mountains to counter the side effects of drinking too much coffee. She lives in Vancouver, B.C. with her fiance and their two cats.

***Author Links***
Website: http://www.lisavoisin.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5837868.Lisa_Voisin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lvoisin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisavoisinauthor
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/lvoisin/

GIVEAWAY:
$25 gift certificate from Amazon (INT)

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Book Blitz Organized by:
YA Bound Book Tours

Friday, November 29, 2013

Bitter Like Orange Peel Book Review and Giveaway


Tour Schedule
Bitter Like Orange Peel by Jessica Bell
Publication date: November 1st 2013
Genres: Adult, Contemporary


Synopsis:

Six women. One man. Seven secrets. One could ruin them all.

Kit is a twenty-five-year-old archaeology undergrad, who doesn’t like to get her hands dirty. Life seems purposeless. But if she could track down her father, Roger, maybe her perspective would change.

The only problem—Roger is as rotten as the decomposing oranges in her back yard according to the women in her life: Ailish, her mother—an English literature professor who communicates in quotes and clichés, and who still hasn’t learned how to express emotion on her face; Ivy, her half-sister—a depressed archaeologist, with a slight case of nymphomania who fled to America after a divorce to become a waitress; and Eleanor, Ivy’s mother—a pediatric surgeon who embellishes her feelings with medical jargon, and named her daughter after “Intravenous.”

Against all three women’s wishes, Kit decides to find Roger.
Enter a sister Kit never knew about.
But everyone else did.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18075248-bitter-like-orange-peel?ac=1

Purchase:
--Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0987593110/
--B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bitter-like-orange-peel-jessica-bell/1116903506?ean=9780987593115

Book Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh9GW-MeS0Y


My opinion:
Bitter Like Orange Peel was very entertaining. There was so much drama, drama, and more drama. The characters are so so far from perfect with many problems of their own but that only makes them seem more real. Every single character kept secrets from each other. The secrets didn't even seem like such a big deal to me so I couldn't understand why they would keep things from each other but I guess that's what made the story great it makes you just want to keep reading to find out everything. I seriously did not want to put this book down! I have only read one other book by Jessica Bell but I believe she is an amazing author and can't wait to read the rest of her books!

AUTHOR BIO
If Jessica Bell could choose only one creative mentor, she’d give the role to Euterpe, the Greek muse of music and lyrics. This is not only because she currently resides in Athens, Greece, but because of her life as a thirty-something Australian-native contemporary fiction author, poet and singer/songwriter/guitarist, whose literary inspiration often stems from songs she’s written. Jessica is the Co-Publishing Editor of Vine Leaves Literary Journal and annually runs the Homeric Writers’ Retreat & Workshop on the Greek island of Ithaca. For more information, please visit her website: www.jessicabellauthor.com

Links:
Website: http://www.jessicabellauthor.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4538875.Jessica_Bell
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/author.jessica.bell
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsBessieBell

Grand prize giveaway
Prize (open internationally):
--The winner has a choice of 3 prizes:

  • Choice 1: Paperback copies of my novels: String Bridge (+ MP3 downloads of original soundtrack), The Book, and Bitter Like Orange Peel
  • Choice 2: Paperback copies of my Writing in a Nutshell Series (three pocket-sized writing craft books)
  • Choice 3: Paperback copies of my poetry books: Muted, Fabric and Twisted Velvet Chains.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thursday, November 28, 2013

The Perimeter Book Blitz and Giveaway ends 12/5

The Perimeter by Shalini Boland
(Outside #3)
Publication date: November 18th 2013
Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult

The Perimeter, blurb:

In this fractured world, a sinister force is coming for Riley, and the only things keeping her safe are a perimeter fence and the people she loves. As her life is threatened, she must make impossible choices. But help comes from the most unlikely of places, and all Riley needs to know is: who can she really trust?

Meanwhile, a repentant killer searches for peace and salvation, but what he gets is the exact opposite. Now he’ll have to make the hardest decision of his life.

The Perimeter is a darkly captivating dystopian tale of adventure, danger, love and redemption that will have you on the edge of your seat and up at night turning the pages to find out what happens next . . .


Outside Series blurb:

Set in the near future, these three heart-stopping novels follow Riley as she overcomes the murder of her younger sister by tracking down the killer across a post-apocalyptic Britain. At the same time, she is forced to take on the might of a twisted regime intent on conquering the nation. The series is packed with action, suspense, drama and dystopian adventure.


Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18632674-the-perimeter?ac=1


Purchase:
US Amazon page: http://www.amazon.com/Shalini-Boland/e/B004SGMOJM/
UK Amazon page: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shalini-Boland/e/B004SGMOJM
Barnes & Noble page: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/shalini-boland?store=allproducts&keyword=shalini+boland
Smashwords page: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/ShaliniBoland
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/shalini-boland/id436922336


Trailers
Book 1 Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpsPvvtTpTo&feature=youtu.be

Book 2 Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ykv9rOnzD8

Excerpt:
‘Have you done things you’re ashamed of, Jamie?’
An image of the dead girl flashed into Jamie’s mind. Shiny beads of blood and glass.
‘I can help you come to terms with those things. I can give you peace. Absolution. Are you tired, Jamie? Are you sick of the road and the hostility of your fellow man? Do you crave a warm bed and a clear purpose?’
Jamie wanted to tune out Mr Carter’s voice, but the soft seductive words crept into his brain like a virus. Part of Jamie knew that this man was skilled in the art of telling people what they longed to hear. That he wasn’t doing anything out of the goodness of his heart. That he had an ulterior motive for approaching him. But the other part of Jamie was tired. Bone-weary in fact, and this Mr Carter bloke knew it. Knew how to press his buttons and get him to do what he wanted.

AUTHOR BIO:
Shalini lives in Dorset, England with her husband and two noisy boys. Before children, she was signed to Universal Music as a singer songwriter. Now, writing novels has hijacked her life and she is usually to be found with a laptop welded to her fingers and the house in a permanent state of neglect.

Author Links:
Website: http://www.shaliniboland.co.uk
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/ShaliniBolandAuthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4727364.Shalini_Boland
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ShaliniBoland
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/shaliniboland/

Giveaway
ebook copy in the Outside series (winner can choose)
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Workouts On Demand Yoga-Stretch #2 Workout Video Review




I'm a little embarrassed to say this but I just really don't like working out. I have been wanting to try yoga though because I have heard it's supposed to be really relaxing. So I was given a link to download and try the video Yoga Stretch #2 from Workouts On Demand for free. What I learned is that I just really don't like working out. The stretches are good and really simple, even though I am not so flexible, but it's hard to find time and motivation for a workout with three young children. It is just not for me. They are 30 minute workouts so if you are not as lazy as me and want to try yoga you can download your own free copy here: http://www.workoutsondemand.com/free_yoga_workout
Remember to check with your doctor before starting any workout.

Links for Workouts on Demand
Home page: http://www.workoutsondemand.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/workouts.on.demand

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Murder of an Oil Heiress Book Playlist and Giveaway


Murder of an Oil Heiress by Candy Ann Little
Genre: Mystery
November 12th 2013 by InkNBeans Publishing 


Synopsis
The Texas sun isn’t the only thing that is scorching hot. Mallory Dillingham is beautiful, successful and primed to take over the family oil business when her father is ready to retire. However, that isn’t soon enough for the billionaire heiress. She wants it all. And, she wants it now. Mallory will stop at nothing to get what she wants, including seduction, lying and blackmail.
Joseph Barnes has stepped into her slippery trap. Can he find a way out before his evil sister-in-law destroys his marriage to Sarah? Will the Dillingham family be able to survive the destruction caused by her devious plot?
Love, betrayal, forgiveness and the bonds of family are all intertwined. This story deals with the complicated lives of the Dillingham family and the people caught in the crossfire. As Mallory wages war on everyone, innocent people pay the price.
Available 12th November via InknBeans Press, or Candy Ann’s site.

BUY LINK 

AMAZON - http://bit.ly/CandyAnn-MofaOH


Excerpt:
Mallory Dillingham stood on her own two feet. She never gave in to demands, but expected them to be obeyed when ordered. She didn’t need love. Power made her heart sing, calling like a lover’s whisper. She fought for what she wanted. Maybe Sarah got things by being weak and helpless, but she preferred to take her heart’s desire.
Right now the object of her attention was Joseph Barnes. He’d swept onto the scene, working on the oil rigs and quickly advanced into the driller position because of his extensive knowledge and hard work. Of course, she’d pushed for the position, knowing that she’d get to spend more time with him. He’d been grateful to her but never moved the relationship beyond business.
Then, he’d met Sarah. They’d kept the relationship a secret for several months before coming out into the open, and a few months after that they eloped. It wasn’t fair! She had known Joseph first and worked hard at getting him to notice her, and little Miss Sarah snatched him up in six months with her little, help me I’m so defenseless that I need a big, strong man to protect me, routine.
Well, the tide was turning. It may have taken her another three years, but she’d finally gotten her man. There’s no way he’d stay with Sarah after last night. He may still be in shock, but once that wore off he’d come begging her to take him to bed again.
She smiled and sipped her Martini. She couldn’t wait to see the look on precious little Sarah’s face when she learned that her husband had fallen in love with her sister.
“Mallory, did you hear me?”
She shook the image from her mind and focused on the little toad of a man standing in front of her. “I’m sorry William, I was lost in thought.”
“I was saying that the quarterly figures suggest that Dillingham Oil is losing profits.” She watched his pudgy face flap like a bulldog as he continued on and on about the finances of the company. She didn’t need his long-winded explanation, she heard all she needed to know – the company was losing money.
Thankfully, she was saved from his blubbering by Sarah.
“Everyone, I’d like your attention for a moment.” Her voice was soft and didn’t carry over everyone’s conversation, so Joe whistled, just about causing the drink glasses to shudder.
Everyone stopped talking and looked at him. Sarah’s cheeks had two red spots on them. “I’m sorry,” she hesitated, “but Joe and I have an announcement.” Her eyes darted to Joe. He nodded to go on. “I had planned on waiting and talking with my family privately first. But, seeing as how our closest friends are here tonight, we’ve decided to share the news with everyone.”
She stopped and took a deep breath.
Mallory noted that Sarah felt uncomfortable. Could this be it? She wondered. Had Joe already decided to leave her? She couldn’t believe it was happening so fast. Her mind swam with joy.
“I found out a few months ago that I’m going to have a baby.”
Joe smiled and Sarah patted her belly. “I’m just starting to show,” she said, proudly.
The hush over the room was broken by Mallory’s Martini glass shattering on the floor.

Play List for Murder of an Oil Heiress
  1. Boss Ass Bitch – by PTAF
  2. Hungry Like the Wolf – by Duran Duran
  3. Unfaithful – by Rihanna
  4. Mistake – by Demi Lovato
  5. Unconditionally – by Katy Perry
  6. Till My Last Day – Justin Moore
  7. Sarah Smiles – by Panic! at the Disco
  8. Your Having My Baby – by Paul Anka
  9. Papa Don’t Preach – by Madonna
  10. Holes in the Floor of Heaven – by Steve Wariner
  11. Ding, Dong, the Witch is Dead by Alex Swings Oscar Sings
  12. I Would Do anything For Love – by Meatloaf
"Murder of an Oil Heiress" Candy Ann Little by Cabin Goddess on Grooveshark
  About the Author Candy Ann Little grew up in a small town in Ohio. She now resides in Michigan with her husband, two adult kids and 4 cats. She began writing in the aftermath of tragedy – her third child was stillborn. The nurse suggested keeping a journal to cope with the grief. Although she thought it a dumb idea at the time, she soon found a freedom and healing that only writing brought. Eventually that pain and sorrow turned into her first Inspirational romance, Unforgiving Ghosts. Since then she has finished 2 more inspirational romances. Her historical romance The Unwilling Bride was published in 2011. She has also tried writing in the genre of mystery, including a novella, Death By Broken Heart, and her first full length novel, Murder of an Oil Heiress. Candy Ann finds it therapeutic putting her thoughts into the words and action of her characters. She also finds that discipline is the biggest lesson learned in her writing life. When she isn’t busy writing, you can find her subbing in the public schools, or helping with church activities. Her favorite things to do are reading, cooking, baking and doing crafts. Social Media Links WEBSITE ~ TWITTER ~ PUBLISHER   
Giveaway US- TSHIRT and MUG with book cover (only US can win) INT- $25 GC (anyone can win)  a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Rowena's Revenge Book Review Giveaway







Title: ROWENA'S REVENGE (The Broadus Supernatural Society Series, #5)
 Author: Theresa Marguerite Hewitt 
Genre: Fiction | YA | Paranormal  
Expected Release Date: 10/31/13 

Rowena's life has never been easy. Being part Were and part Fae fire-starter she has learned to live a solitary life, depending only on her own instincts until one mistake throws her into danger. Now being chased by a psychopathic Warlock who is bound and determined to "own" her, Rowena must rely on her newly found mates and family. But is she ready to trust? Or will her damaged heart plunge her into darkness? 
Blaine is a strong wolf, wanting to protect his new mate with his life. When a new man comes into her life, he can't help but be jealous. Will it drive him into betrayal? Or will he accept their new life too late? 
Penton has lived hundreds of years looking for his mate. Now he's found her, but can he keep her safe long enough to get her back to Montana? 
Cearbhall is one of the last Dark Warlocks known in the world. He has been searching for centuries for the 'fire-heart' that will complete his prophecy, bringing the world to his feet. In Rowena, his dark, twisted mind finds it with just the hint of her blood left behind as she runs from federal forces. 
He will stop at nothing, killing everyone and everything in his path to have her for his own. He thinks nothing of leaving a path of destruction across the country in his wake to claim her. 
Will one of these three mates pay the ultimate price for love? Or will evil finally descend upon Broadus, Montana and The Big Sky Pack?
 Rowena's Revenge is book #5 but the only one I have read in this series. Since I did not start with book #1 I feel like I didn't get the chance to really get to know the characters especially Rowena. The story was good, the characters were okay, the sex was way too much! I would have preferred less sex in this book or a little less details at least. Rowena had two mates and I'm not sure how I feel about that, part of me wants to say "Go Rowena" and another part just says "NO, NO, NO!" I am so confused I really can't decide if I really like this book or I don't. I give this book 3 stars because even though I don't love it I definitely don't hate it, and it's a fast read so you can read it in a day if you have a few hours to just sit and read.



a Rafflecopter giveaway


November 25th – Kelly at Kelly P's Blog – Spotlight/Excerpt
November 25th – Deena at E-Book Builders – Review/Promo
November 25th – Shelli at Sharing A Bit of Romance – Character Interview

November 26th Jessica at Jess Resides Here – Top Ten List/Excerpt
November 26th – Joana at Alwaysjoart – Review/Playlist
November 27th – Pavlina at Read More Sleep Less – Promo
November 28th – Pam at Unconventional Librarian – Playlist
November 28th – Stephanie Stephanie's Bookshelf – Review/Promo
November 29th – Laurie at Laurie's Thoughts and Reviews – Top Ten List/Promo
November 29th – Michelle at Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews – Review/Promo

Theresa Marguerite Hewitt is a very laid back person; enjoying the simpler things in life more than most sometimes. She grew up in a very, VERY small town in Central New York and she will always be a Redneck Woman.
She loves reading, writing, taking long pointless drives and long dusk time walks. Fall and winter are her favorite times of year and she spends more time outside then than in the summer. She loves hearing from fans and is not above fan-girling on those that show her tons of support.
She donates the profits from the Amazon sales of her military series, The Wakefield Romance Series, to various military charities including; Wounded Warrior Project, Red Circle Foundation, Boot Campaign and others.
She is addicted to the cheap-Harlequin romances you can pick up in most drug stores and cannot go in and out of a store without picking up at least one. She resides in Buffalo, NY with her boyfriend, two dogs and two cats.


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Shrouded Book Playlist and Giveaway


Title: Shrouded
Author: Frances Pauli
Release Date: November 21, 2013
Series: Princes of the Shroud
Publisher: The Zharmae Publishing Press (Zharmae.com)


Book Description:
Vashia’s father is the planetary governor. Unfortunately, he’s also a complete bastard. When he promises her to his lackey, Jarn, she panics. On the run in the nastiest corner of the galaxy, Vashia seizes her one chance at escape and signs on as a bride candidate for the elusive race of aliens known as the Shrouded, unaware that she very well may be chosen as the next Queen of Shroud

Of the seven, volatile Shrouded princes, Dolfan may be the only one that doesn't covet the throne. So the last thing he expects to find in the future queen is the woman of his dreams. If he wants Vashia, he must accept the throne as well. Unfortunately, his long-time rival has the same idea. Now, only the planet’s sacred crystal can decide their fates, but what happens when the right woman is paired with the wrong man? And when Jarn comes after what was promised to him?

GoodReads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18569448-shrouded

Buy Direct: http://stores.modularmarket.com/zharmae/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Zharmae&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3AZharmae

BN: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Zharmae?store=allproducts&keyword=Zharmae


Playlist/ Music Inspiration

"I believe at the time I was listening to a lot of Sirius radio New Age channel. I was mad for, Some Men, by Darkel and I still think of it in relation to Shrouded. If I had to pick one song, that would be it. There's a great version here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLRZE6ngRzI
I know I listened to a lot of Classical too. Berlioz, Symphony Fantasitque for certain, and I probably brought out the Carmina Burana for the invasion scene. It's always good for the charge to battle."

Author Bio:
Frances Pauli writes speculative fiction, usually with touches of humor or romance, which means, of course, that she has trouble choosing sides.
She's always been a fan of things outside the box, odd, weird or unusual, and that trend follows through her books, which feature aliens, fairies, and even, on occasion, an assortment of humans.

More information on her work and upcoming releases can be found on her
website: www.francespauli.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrancesPauliAuthor
twitter: https://twitter.com/MothinDarkness
goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3426477.Frances_Pauli

Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Saturday, November 23, 2013

Children Learning Reading Program Review





I'm pretty sure you can tell that I love to read just by looking at my blog. I believe reading is very important and is also fun. My oldest daughter is 5 and started Kindergarten this year. When she started school she did not know her ABC's or numbers, shapes, and colors. It's not that I didn't try to teach her I just didn't know how and I would get frustrated that she didn't get it right away so she would refuse to even try. I was so embarrassed when I went to pick her up her first day of school and her teacher came up to me and said "she didn't go to preschool right? She needs to catch up to the other students." I didn't even know she had to already know so much in Kindergarten! OOPS I promise I tried!

Now I want to tell you about the Children Learning Reading Program.
  1. It is a step-by-step program
  2. It only takes about 10 minutes a day
  3. It is simple enough to teach even 2-3 year olds how to read 
I have been using this program with my daughter for a few weeks now. Since she has been going to school for a few months and already knew her ABC's we are going through the lessons pretty fast. I am so surprised at how fast she is learning and guess what...
She can read!
The best thing about it though is that she loves the lessons, they are like a fun game to her.  It makes me happy to see her get so excited about reading. I hope that my children will love reading as much as I do. I have not tried this program with my two year old yet but I'm pretty sure that when I do it won't be as easy for him as it is with my daughter especially since he is not talking yet. I am practicing blending with him though so hopefully when I start this program with him in about 3-5 months he will be talking and it will be simple for him too. Of course I know that we will have to go at a much slower pace but I'm positive we will have great results.

If you want to see videos and reviews from other parents plus all the bonuses that come with this program check out their website!

Website: http://www.childrenlearningreading.org/

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Sam Cruz's Infallible Guide to Getting Girls Book Review and Giveaway


Tour Schedule

Title: Sam Cruz's Infallible Guide to Getting Girls
Author: Tellulah Darling
Publisher: Te Da Media
Date of Publication: October 17, 2012

Blurb:

Why the hell can’t chicks be more like guys?

That question plagues high school senior Sam Cruz. Sam is perfectly happy being a player. He just wishes girls wouldn’t change the game from sex to relationships. It makes him look like an asshole. But when Sam’s best friend, Ally Klinger, gets dumped, she begs him to transform her into someone who can screw around then screw off. No risk of heartbreak that way. It’s Sam’s chance to create the perfect female AND cheer up his best friend. Armed with Sam’s Three Step Guide to Backseat Success, Ally gets the game better than Sam thought she would and before long, Sam has his wish: the female version of himself. Too bad it’s driving him nuts. Told from Sam’s and Ally's alternating POVs, Sam Cruz’s Infallible Guide to Getting Girls is a fast-paced YA romantic comedy that follows these teens as they navigate the minefield of sex, love, and friendship. 

This contemporary teen romance contains strong language, drinking, euphemisms, and lots of “bow chicka wow wow.”


Purchase links: Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo

My opinion:

This book reminded me of the movie "He's Just Not That Into You". They are both fun romantic comedies where a guy tries o help a girl with the opposite sex. Sam is a player who doesn't believe in love. Ally is a smart good girl but gets her heart broken after her boyfriend of two years leaves her for another girl. Sam and Ally are best friends and he decides to help her by trying to make her the female version of him. Even though there was way more sex talk in this book than I usually like I didn't mind because it was very realistic. This book feels very young and made me go back to when I was 17-19. It was great switching from Sam and Ally's point of view (even though it confused me for the first few chapters) because I got both sides of the story. This is a 4 star book for me.

About Tellulah Darling

Tellulah Darling
noun

Sassy girls. Swoony boys. What could go wrong?

1. YA romantic comedy author because her first kiss sucked and she's compensating.
2. Alter ego of former screenwriter.
3. Sassy minx.

Geeks out over: cool tech.
Squees for: great storytelling.
Delights in: fabulous conversation.
Writes about: where love meets comedy. Awkwardness ensues.

Tellulah Darling is a firm believer that some of the best stories happen when love meets comedy. Which is why she has so much fun writing young adult romantic comedy novels. Her tales span contemporary, teen fantasy romance, and YA Greek mythology, and range from stand alone books to series. For Tellulah, teen romance is the most passionate, intense, and awkward there is – a comedy goldmine. Plus smart, mouthy, teen girls rock.



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Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Drawn Book Blitz and Giveaway ends 11/29

Drawn by Cecilia Gray
Publication date: November 13th 2013
Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult


Synopsis:

Take a journey into the gritty world of political espionage through the eyes – and lies – of one extraordinary girl. A wholly original tale of friendship and betrayal from the author of The Jane Austen Academy series….

Sasha has a secret – that she can make you spill your secret with nothing more than a question. Her strange gift makes her a burden to her foster family and a total freak of nature. Not that Sasha cares. Why should she when no one cares about her?

Then the CIA knocks on her door. They want to give Sasha a new identity and drop her into a foreign country to infiltrate a ring of zealous graffiti terrorists. They want to give Sasha something to care about.

To survive a world where no one is who they seem, Sasha needs to make people trust her. But when that trust blossoms into love, Sasha is forced to decide between duty and friendship, between her mind and her heart, and whether to tell the truth or keep her secrets.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17725214-drawn?ac=1

Purchase:

--Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Cecilia-Gray/e/B0077RU55Y/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
--B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/cecilia-gray

EXCERPT: First 2 Pages

FBI Field Office, Atlanta, Georgia

I've studied Chelsea since the FBI teamed us up when I was twelve. She has a move…classic Chelsea. She turns the doorknob and her body stiffens, a metal rod shoved down her spine. As she sets a high heel inside the interrogation room, her southern accent and soft manners are buried beneath a terrifyingly sleek, blond exterior in a perfectly pressed pinstriped suit.
Four years of practice, two custom-cut suits of my own, and I still look epileptic when I try to project that sense of total control. Of I've got this. Even though I don't have her drawl and my posture's not bad.
I follow Chelsea, stiff as can be, into the room with the bright white walls. Our sicko suspect glances up from the steel table in its center. I flinch at his chilling stare. Flinching already, see. A slow smile bulges his cheeks as he studies me. Attention from a guy in an orange jumpsuit sitting at a steel table—to which he is handcuffed—is what Chelsea would officially term an undesirable outcome. More undesirable—me showing I care. Like she always says, "Don't let 'em see you sweat, hon."
No way am I giving this psycho the satisfaction. I suppress a shiver as the air conditioning kicks on with a groan. Tiny goosebumps break out on my forearms, raising the fine hairs to attention. Can't rub myself warm—that's a tell. Instead, when Chelsea slides into one of the fold-out metal chairs across from him, I follow her lead and take comfort in her giraffe-like posture in the chair next to mine.
Chelsea tosses a manila folder so that its contents spill across the table. The file details his alleged heinous crimes, the FBI's efforts to track him, and the blood evidence in his garage that matches that of the latest missing girl—Georgia State art major, vegetarian, and more important to the suits, daughter of a local bigwig. Funny, the things you remember from a file when they have nothing to do with the case, like how she specialized in collages. They'd found cut-up pieces of magazines littered across the desk and floor of her dorm room. The pieces trailed into the hall like flower petals down a church aisle.
The strewn high-gloss photos of his suspected victims—his own personal collage of the young, female, and carved—don't solicit a cringe from him when I can barely hold down my water and I've been staring at them for weeks. My gaze flickers to the one-way mirror—a silent promise: We're gonna nail this freak.
"I'm FBI Agent Chelsea Tanner. This is my partner. How are you this evening?"
This is normally when a suspect will ask, with understandable outrage, why I'm party to the interrogation because aren't I, at almost sixteen, too young to be in the FBI? Pinstriped suit or not, I look my age, maybe even a year or two younger because I've always been small—childhood malnutrition will do that to a girl.
It's the suspects who don't care that I'm in the room who worry me. Like this guy, whose pale eyes flicker to my throat.
I fight the urge to shift, even to clench my fingers tight into a fist. I don't blink.
"Fine weather we're having this winter." Chelsea manages not to smirk at our sitting in a windowless room. Her face is unbreakable. "These are perfect skies for a getaway. Do you have plans for the weekend?"
When he doesn't answer, she shares our itinerary—a leisurely drive to Savannah to visit her mother at their family wintering home. Yes, that's a thing. The trip always involves mint juleps and wide-brimmed hats, not that Chelsea shares the finer details. A genteel background rarely earns cred with criminals.
She chit-chats as if he's not imagining the slice of his boning knife into my neck. The careful incision he would carve against the clavicle, removing the flat bone from the ligaments attached to the shoulder. I don't need my unique magic to know what's on his mind. Some things in the case file stick for a reason.
My bone structure fascinates him. His gaze caresses my cheekbones, roams over the bridge of my nose, dips into the hollow of my neck, and brushes the stray dark corkscrew curls that drape over my sternum.
Don't move. Don't blink. Don't even breathe.
"Savannah's so beautiful this time of year. Any time of year. I go as often as I can. Don't you think you should make time for family?" The word rolls off her tongue in three syllables, a rare ray of southern shining through her otherwise stiff facade.
Fah. Mil. Lee.
He closes his eyes as though in prayer. When he opens them, his pupils dilate to nearly black and he rubs his thumbs over his knuckles. He does not take the bait.
Come on, Chelsea. You work your magic and I'll work mine.
That's our deal. She gets them talking. I make them spill their guts.

AUTHOR BIO:
Cecilia Gray lives in the San Francisco Bay Area where she reads, writes and breaks for food. She also pens her biographies in the third person. Like this. As if to trick you into thinking someone else wrote it because she is important. Alas, this is not the case.

Cecilia has been praised for “instilling a warmth and weight into her characters” (Romancing The Book Reviews) and her books have been praised for being “well-written, original, realistic and witty” (Quills & Zebras Reviews).

Her latest series of young-adult contemporary Jane Austen retellings was named a What’s Hot pick (RT Book Reviews magazine) and is a Best of 2012 pick (Kirkus Reviews) where it was praised for being a “unique twist on a classic” and offering “a compelling mix of action, drama and love.”

She’s rather enamored of being contacted by readers and hopes you’ll oblige.

Website: http://www.ceciliagray.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ceciliagray
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5061397.Cecilia_Gray
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ceciliabooks

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Monday, November 18, 2013

The Red Sector Chronicles Book Blitz and Giveaway ends 12/1

The Red Sector Chronicles by Krystle Jones
(The Red Sector Chronicles Omnibus)
Genres: Dystopia, Paranormal Romance, Young Adult


Synopsis:
The strength of Sloane’s heart is about to be put to the ultimate test.

After the Eclipse – the night vampires began openly slaughtering human victims – everything changed. Out of fear, the government salvaged what remained of the human population and enclosed them in massive, security-laden cities called White Sectors, while marking the vampire infested territory as Red Sectors.

When seventeen-year-old Sloane McAllister’s twin brother disappears, she seems to be the only one who thinks he isn’t dead, and she vows to stop at nothing to find him. Gathering her courage, she braves the Red Sector to search for clues to his whereabouts. By chance, she encounters Aden, a handsome, charismatic vampire with a hidden agenda. He turns Sloane against her will and whisks her away to his underground city. Enemies quickly become friends as Sloane struggles against her attraction to Aden, and resists her growing loyalties to the creatures that ruined her life.

But the vampires themselves are the least of her problems. A war is brewing between the humans and vampires, along with a growing web of deceit and betrayal. And before it’s all over, loyalties will be tested, hearts will be broken, and no one’s lives will ever be the same.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/series/68870-the-red-sector-chronicles

Goodreads for the Omnibus: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18742623-the-red-sector-chronicles-omnibus-edition?ac=1

Purchase:
--Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Sector-Chronicles-Omnibus-Edition-ebook/dp/B00GB37DV4/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1383222910&sr=8-4&keywords=the+red+sector+chronicles
--Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/372600


Dream Cast for The Red Sector Chronicles
By Krystle Jones


Sometimes when I write, I see certain actors or actresses for my characters, and sometimes I don’t. The Red Sector Chronicles has a large cast, and I can honestly say I see a mixture of both already-known people and unknowns for my characters. I’ll try to give you an idea of what they look like, in my mind, below. =) (FYI, due to copyright laws, I just listed the names of the actors and actresses rather than including pictures in the guest post.)
We’ll start with my MC and work our way through the supporting cast.
  • Sloane McAllister/Phoebe Tonkin: Seventeen-year-old headstrong and bold vampire hunter-turned-vampire. She can be pretty pigheaded sometimes, and she doesn’t take crap from anybody, but she still has a lot of heart. Why I picked Phoebe: I didn’t have a particular actress in mind when I pictured Sloane, but the more I see Phoebe (The Originals), the more I think she’d suit Sloane. Her skin would have to be a little bit darker, but she has the exotic look I pictured.
  • Aden Knight/Ashley Charles the II: Sloane’s main love interest. A mysterious, handsome vampire soldier Sloane meets in the Red Sector while looking for her brother. Why I picked Ashley: I had no clue who to pick for Aden. Then I came across a picture of Ashely on imdb.com and I said, “That looks like Aden.” When I saw him in The White Queen, I thought to myself, “That could be Aden. The voice, those eyes, his look… give him some blonder hair, and that could be him.” Only not British, because Aden is an American. =P (Though I think he WOULD sound hot with a British accent.)
  • Leo Rinaldi/Adrian Grenier: Sloane’s hot-blooded best friend. Passionate and just as reckless as she is. Why I picked Adrian: This was the only other character besides Paris I saw a certain actor for. Adrian has the right look, though he’s a bit too old to play Leo now. (Leo’s around seventeen.)
  • Deyzre Drake/Yaya DaCosta: Somewhat vain yet smart vampire medical student. Has a habit of getting under Sloane’s skin. Why I picked Yaya: I’ll just admit, Dezyre would probably have to be an unknown if she were cast in real life. It was really hard to find someone who fit her image and could pull off her personality, but after seeing some clips of Yaya, I think she would suit her. She’s around my age, making a little too old for Dezyre, since she’s also supposed to be seventeen, but she has that refined look to her that I picture Dezyre having.
  • Paris De Lange/Kate Walsh: Paris is a brilliant French doctor whose sassy attitude often makes her butt heads with Sloane. Why I picked Kate: Paris was one of the few characters where I had a particular actress in mind while I was writing. I saw Kate Walsh, maybe because her hair color is so similar to Paris’. I also think she could pull off the classy, sophisticated air Paris has.
  • Rook/Jesse Williams II: Rook’s a talented soldier and a skilled fighter, but he’s a big teddy bear at heart. One of Sloane’s friends. Why I picked Jesse: I remember Jesse from Cabin in the Woods (WEIRD movie). I think he’d be able to pull off Rook’s softer nature, while at the same time making him seem tough.
  • Orion McAllister/Shiloh Fernandez: Orion is the twin brother Sloane goes looking for in the Red Sector. Why I picked Shiloh: I haven’t seen him in much, but I distinctly remember him in Red Riding Hood. He has a cunning look to him I think would suit Orion well, and I think he and Phoebe could pull off being related. As with Phoebe, though, I’d picture him with slightly darker skin.
  • General Minerva Frost/Meryl Streep: The cold ruler of the vampire Syndicate. Why I picked Meryl: She could rock this world. The frigidity she showed in The Devil Wears Prada would do Minerva a lot of justice. Plus, she’s one of my favorite actresses.
  • Mrs. Knight/Susanna Thompson: Aden’s gentle mother. She’s soft spoken, but not afraid to stand up for what is right. Why I picked Susanna: She just has that motherly air, and she looks almost exactly like how I pictured Mrs. Knight. How she plays Moira Queen in Arrow is pretty similar to how Mrs. Knight acts, though I would probably make her even a bit softer.
  • Arika Takihara/Arika Takarano: Another vampire hunter is a little too close to Leo for Sloane’s liking. Why I picked Arika: Okay, so Arika Takarano isn’t who I pictured playing Arika, but she is the inspiration for the character. She’s a talented singer, known for her complicated songs and elaborate wardrobes.

AUTHOR BIO:
Krystle Jones was born and raised in the small, southern town of Tullahoma, Tennessee. Reading and writing have been lifelong passions of hers. In addition to being a novelist, she is also an award-winning flutist, and moonlights as a voice actress. Her voice can be heard in the popular online game, Alice is Dead 3.


Author Links:
Website: www.krystlejonesbooks.com
Twitter: twitter.com/kryjonesbooks
Facebook: facebook.com/krystlejonesbooks
Goodreads: goodreads.com/krystlejonesbooks



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