Monday, April 29, 2013

Blog Tour - Feasted On: Chasing Sam by Krystal Shannan | Guest Post, Review, & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Krystal Shannan, who is talking about how it feels to write series novels and how she went about writing her Vegas Mates Series!

ALSO -- Be sure to comment on this post to be able to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from April 15 - June 24, 2013]



Series Writing :

Writing a series feels natural to me. I have a very difficult time keeping a story limited to one couple. When characters come along they usually bring their friends and my brain never stops with just one story. I have to write them all and figure out how they are all connected. What brought them together? Are they friends? Are they family?

Vegas Mates started with the idea of a mate hunt. I wanted a heroine who wanted something else from life. She was someone who wasn’t desperately seeking her mate and was in fact avoiding it. And, I wanted a twist in this world where some of the shifters were not given the option of a true mate and some were. As you can imagine, this creates a whole slew of potential problems.

When Sam’s character appeared in my head, she practically screamed her frustrations at me. She has a very dysfunctional family, thanks mostly to her mom’s buried issues. Sam also doesn’t want to have anything to do with the politics of the royal council world. However, because she’s the first born, she is not given a choice.

Do you prefer to read series? Or stand-alone books?



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 237 KB | Release Date: February 5, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions

"Chasing Sam" [Vegas Mates Series, Book 1] by Krystal Shannan

My Book Summary : Samantha (Sam) is the oldest daughter from a noble and influential werewolf family just about to turn twenty-five-years-old. Meaning it's time for her family to follow tradition and find Sam a mate. The problem is Sam doesn't like the "stuffy" life her family leads. She would love to be on her own, finish her schooling to become a doctor and travel off to a distant land so she could help others. Yet that isn't in the cards for her, especially when she goes home during her Christmas break only to find her parents have took the opportunity to find mates for her and are planning to hold the "mate hunt" while she's home, whether she likes it or not.

Sam's only salvation is Chase. A werewolf she meets at the airport after arriving home and who she finds an instant attraction/calling too. But can she convince him that she is his one true mate and see if he's willing to fight for her only after knowing him for such a short period of time? Or will she try to escape her responsibilities to her family like she's been trying to do for years?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars!! Can Sam find a way to escape tradition or will she find a loophole that could work in her favor while she looses her heart...

I loved this rushed, exciting tale of new love, werewolf politics/traditions, dysfunctional noble families, and sibling loyalty. Sam and Chase were a great match! I am so happy with how everything turned out between them; I can't wait to see where their lives will end up.

Nevertheless, my only issue with the novel was that I wanted the ending to wrap up a bit better. Like, what happened after Sam & Chase got out of the woods? Especially since I really want to know how her mother reacted, there is so many unknown issues that this novel touches on but never completes that it makes me curious as to know what the reasons are and I hope that within the next books in this series those reasons will be told.

Overall, I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes paranormal werewolf romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Chasing Sam - Overview & Excerpt | Krystal Shannan - Heartbreaker Blog Event #HeartHop | Krystal Shannan Interviews Cover Model Jason Aaron Baca | Krystal Shannan's - Chasing Sam | Vegas Mates **New Release** #pnr #werewolf #shifter #romance #newrelease


Author's Series Extras : Vegas Mates Series - Overview | Welcome!

Book Teaser(s) :
He took her hand again and led her inside the 24-hour diner. They sat down at an empty table and a waitress plopped a menu down in front of Chase.
He glanced up at the server. “Where’s hers?”
The old lady laughed in his face. Even Sam giggled. He had a feeling he was missing the joke.
“Honey, she always gets the blueberry pancakes, a double side of bacon, and coffee with cream.”
Realization dawned, and he smiled. “How often do you come here?”
“Once a day when I’m in town.”
“We’ve missed you, sugar. All that premed wearing you out?”
“Something like that, Bonnie. I’ve missed you too. Say hi to Joe for me.”
“Will do, sugar. Does your handsome friend here want to eat, or is he going to just stare in amazement all night?”
“Ummm...I...I’ll have the same as her,” he finally stammered. The waitress Sam had called Bonnie smiled and took the menu. ~ within Chapter 4
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Krystal, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Krystal Shannan is a born, raised, and current TEXAN. She is married to a wonderful man who supports her dream of writing and allows her to spend many evening and weekend hours glued to her laptop. During the day she moonlights as an elementary music teacher. In addition to a doting husband, a young daughter is also part of the picture and keeps her hopping! An ornery little Welsh Corgi completes the household.

Krystal has been writing stories since she could hold a pencil. She has always dreamed of writing romance and sharing the "movies in her head" with the world. If she's not writing, she's reading -historical, paranormal, action, adventure -anything she can get her hands on that ends with a Happily Ever After!

If you are interested in receiving emails when new books are released, please sign up for her distribution list by visiting www.krystalshannan.com and clicking the "contact" tab.




Book Excerpt :

“Sam? Sam, have you heard anything I’ve said?”

Sam finally tore her gaze away from Chase. When she’d seen him walk into the lounge, every part of her being began to ache. Her wolf was going nuts, urging her to go over and talk to him immediately.

“He is here to see us!”

Sam glanced up at Nicole and then again at Chase. God, he was smiling. A huge lolling sexy grin. Her heart melted into a puddle and all she wanted to do was oblige her wolf, climb into his lap, and snuggle against his broad chest.

Nicole laughed and Sam turned back with a glare. “Out of the entire Vegas strip, soldier-boy hottie ends up one table across from you in your favorite haunt.”

“Shhh... Nicole, don’t talk so loud. He can hear you.” Her cheeks warmed and she took another quick sip of her Jack and coke.

“Ooooh, this is the hottie from the airport?” Hallie giggled.

Sam put her empty glass down and looked up. All three of her sisters were smiling and waving at Chase and his friend. If only she could disappear into the leather of the seat cushion.

“Nicole, wave them over here to our booth. I want to meet the guy that finally made Sam turn her head twice.” Tess snickered. “It’s not every day you get to see Samantha Demakis blush like a high school freshman.”

“Shut up, Tess,” Sam hissed and scowled at her little sister. She wanted nothing more than to talk to Chase again, but not surrounded by her sisters or in front of whoever his friend was.

Before she could object, Nicole had hopped up from their booth and walked over to the pair. Sam stole another glance and shivered with excitement when both men stood and followed Nicole back to the table.



Giveaways!! :

  • Some autographed swag to 5 randomly drawn commenters during the tour (US ONLY)
  • A digital copy of "Open House" by Krystal Shannan to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour
  • Grand Prize : A $25 Gift Card to Starbucks to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour

To Enter : Please leave a comment on this post, with a valid email address included at the end of it.

Sign up for her newsletter and tell her in your comment that you did. She'll put your name in the Grand Prize drawing twice!

Soo .... COMMENT, COMMENT, COMMENT on this post!! And you could WIN!! =0)

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites! Commenting on the other stops on the tour will also increase your chance of winning!



Find Krystal Shannan :

Idolizing In: The Smythe-Smith Quartet Series, Book 2

Format: Paperback | Pages: 373 | Release Date: May 2012 | Publisher: Avon Books | Obtained: My Mom (previously read it and thought I might like it)

"A Night Like This" [The Smythe-Smith Quartet Series, Book 2] by Julia Quinn (aka JQ)

My Book Summary : After three years of being in exile to escape being killed at his friend's father's request, Lord Winstead--Daniel--is finally able to return to England. However, being on the run and always looking over your shoulder does keep one on edge and it's a good thing in Daniel's case because it seems that not all of his troubles are finished once he returns. Nevertheless, he finds it hard to become too frightened once he meets the lovely Anne, his cousin's Governess, who has some secrets of her own. Now if Anne can only open up to Daniel about her past and her fears they might be able to stop the madman after her (and kind of after Daniel now too) before it's too late...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars! This is hilariously energetic novel keeps you on your toes while encouraging you to fall in love with its compelling cast of characters! I loved Daniel & Anne! Their story was one I did not completely expect yet it kept me riveted the whole way through. If only there was more! =0)

And the secondary characters! Good god! They made this novel full of twists I never saw coming, and so very fun to read!

About the Characters:
• Anne: Because of an accident--that happened eight years ago--when she was 16-years-old she has been "on the run" in a way ever since. Currently works as The Pleinsworths' (Harriet, Elizabeth, & Frances) governess. Likes her job and employers. Is immediately drawn to Daniel, has to fight with herself to stay within certain propriety.

• Daniel: He's the Earl of Winstead. Had a duel with one of his close friends when they were both drunk and being dumb. Accidentally wounded his friend in the leg during the duel, and because of that he was on fled from England and stayed away for three years after his friend's father announced that he wanted him dead. Once he is allowed back home, he meets Anne and is instantly attracted to her wanting to find out everything about her. Forced to perform in an unusual play and go back to "school" just so he can hang out with and get to know Anne better. Is very sweet, charming, and chivalrous when he goes about his own way of courting Anne.

• Marcus: He's the Earl of Chatteris. Engaged to Lady Honoria. Daniel's best friend.

• Honoria: Daniel's younger sister. Engaged to Marcus.

• Hugh: The second son of the Marquess of Ramsgate. A close friend of Daniel's. Is the one who wanted to duel with Daniel when he believe Daniel was cheating at cards, and ended up with a bad leg because of it. Told Daniel that he could come back to England after getting his father to call off his father's death wish.

• Harriet: Is fifteen-years-old. Believes herself to be an amazing play write, but usually comes up with more unusual dramatic pieces of work then anything.

• Frances: Youngest of the Pleinsworths siblings at ten-years-old. Likes unicorns and likes to pretend she is one.

There are more characters of course but those ones stand out the most for me. =0)

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes humorously dramatic historical romances!

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Ten Things I Love About You

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Blog Tour - Made the Grade: The Reluctant Marquess by Maggi Andersen | Guest Post, Review, & Giveaway | Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Novel Extras : A Night Like This - Overview, Inside the Story, Awards & Achievements, Excerpt, and Connecting Books | The Romancing Of Julia Quinn: A Night Like This? Author Talks Genre, Critics? Downton Abbey?

Author's Series Extras : Find out more about...The Smythe-Smith Quartet | Just Like Heaven - Overview, Watch the Video, Inside the Story, Awards & Achievements, Excerpt, and Connecting Books | JQ has a limited quantity of Just Like Heaven magnets to give away.

Book Teaser(s) :
"Do you know my sister?" he asked, sounding terribly tired. "Oh, of course you do. You were playing with her."
"Your sister is Lady Honoria?" It did seem prudent to verify.
He nodded. "I am Winstead."
"Yes, of course. I had been informed of your pending return." She stretched out another awkward smile, but it did little to set her at ease. "Lady Honoria is most amiable and kind. I am very happy for her."
"She's a terrible musician."
"She was the best violinist on the stage," Anne said with complete honesty.
He laughed loudly at that. ~ within Chapter 2
Then Elizabeth came, bearing a tray of cakes and sweets, and finally Harriet, who carried with her a small sheaf of paper---her current opus, Henry VIII and the Unicorn of Doom.
"I'm not certain Frances is going to be appeased by an evil unicorn," Anne told her.
Harriett looked up with one arched brow. "She did not specify that it must be a good unicorn."
Anne grimaced. "You're going to have a battle on your hands, that's all I'm going to say on the matter."
Harriet shrugged, then said, "I'm going to begin in act two. Act one is a complete disaster. I've had to rip it completely apart."
"Because of the unicorn?"
"No," Harriet said with a grimace. "I got the order of the wives wrong. It's divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, widowed."
"How cheerful."
Harriet gave her a bit of a look, then said, "I switched one of the divorces with a beheading."
"May I give you a bit of advice?" Anne said.
Harriet looked up.
"Don't ever let anyone hear you say that out of context." ~ within Chapter 14
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Julia, then please check out her website.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Idolizing In: Rush Me by Allison Parr

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 246 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 8, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Rush Me" by Allison Parr

Okay for some reason I can't seem to phrase this novel into my usual Book Summary because every time I try to start it, it just doesn't seem to flow right so .... here is the .... Author's Book Description to give you a better understanding of what this book is about!

Author's Book Description : When post-grad Rachael Hamilton accidentally gatecrashes a pro-athlete party, she ends up face-to-face with Ryan Carter, the NFL’s most beloved quarterback.

While most girls would be thrilled to meet the attractive young millionaire, Rachael would rather spend time with books than at sporting events, and she has more important things to worry about than romance. Like her parents pressuring her to leave her unpaid publishing internship for law school. Or her brother, who’s obliviously dating Rachael’s high school bully. Or that same high school’s upcoming reunion.

Still, when Ryan’s rookie teammate attaches himself to Rachael, she ends up cohosting Friday night dinners for half a dozen football players.

Over pancake brunches, charity galas, and Alexander the Great Rachael realizes all the judgments she’d made about Ryan are wrong. But how can a Midwestern Irish-Catholic jock with commitment problems and an artsy, gun-shy Jewish New Englander ever forge a partnership? Rachael must let down her barriers if she wants real love–even if that opens her up to pain that could send her back into her emotional shell forever.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Two supposed opposites meet unexpectedly and get into a relationship that neither of them are used to but both want desperately to keep! I could not get enough of Ryan & Rachael!! They were snarky, fun, and brought positive changes into each other’s lives while they fumbled through their feelings for each other.

This intense novel keeps you on your toes with its romantic twists and laughing with its great cast of secondary characters! Rachael, at times, is so snarky and independent that I would think, "why is she doing that," but then I'd realize that I act the same way at times too which made me sympathize with her more then I expected too. Ryan is a vulnerable man who is handsome and sweet but because of his past he has a hard time dealing with long-term relationships, which makes his relationship with Rachael on even rockier territory then it already was, with only Rachael's issues. Nevertheless, I enjoyed how Ryan & Rachael worked through all of the turmoil that came into their lives especially the "grand gesture" at the end. =0)

I recommend this novel to anyone who like "opposites attract" football player romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Here we go! | All About New Adult | Cover Reveal | Basically how my day went | Fish Out of Water | Hey-I-wrote-a-book-kthanxbai | The Carina Press authors are “Getting in Character”!

Book Teaser(s) :
“I’ve never heard Hebrew spoken before.”
My shoulders relaxed, and for the first time since we’d started this conversation, I sucked in a big breath of air. “I don’t really know it. It’s all memorization.”
He nodded. “Yeah, I did some of that for my grandparents. They’re Irish, so I learned the basics.”
I took a stab. “Irish...Catholic?”
He laughed. “Good thing you got that right.”
Oh. Yeah. The Irish Catholics and Irish Protestants had quite a lot of rough history. Time to stop saying terms simply because I’d heard them a lot. “So you speak some Gaelic?”
“No, they actually call it Irish.”
Terminology: 2; Rachael: 0. “Say something.”
He looked a little uncertain, and opened his mouth twice before anything came out. “Bhí dinnéar blasta.”
“Dinner was a blast?”
He grinned at me. “Dinner was delicious.”
I laughed. “Thanks. Though I just ordered a fixed menu from a deli.”
He tilted his head. “Did you end up paying for it yourself?”
This time, it was my mouth that opened and closed. “Uh—”
He shook his head. “Thought so. I swear, Abe has a mind like a sieve. How much was it?”
I considered. I had initially been furious at dropping two hundred dollars I didn’t have on a meal I hadn’t planned, but taking Ryan’s money felt like charity. “You know, it’s not a big deal.”
He dealt me a dry look. “Save it. We both know you’re going to tell me, and I’m going to pay you back, so there’s no use playing like we won’t.”
And there went two hundred dollars and our fragile peace. “I’m not playing. And I don’t need your money.”
He snorted and headed for the folded brown bags that the food had come in. From one, he withdrew a crumpled receipt that I probably should have claimed earlier. After glancing at it, he took a handful of twenties from his wallet and held them out to me. “Are you going to be gracious and take it, or are we going to fight about this, too?”
Poverty fought with pride, and won. “Thanks,” I muttered, and then sighed, and then tried for an apology as I folded the bills into my purse. “I was born without the gracious gene.”
His mouth quirked up. “Yeah. I kind of noticed.”
I tried to scowl at him, but his grin was too infectious and I laughed instead. ~ within Chapter 7
I was entirely blown away. I couldn’t even think of what to say. Finally, fumbling, I said, “You never asked me out to dinner.”
He glared at me. “I have you over for dinner all the time.”
“But you never asked me out.”
Exasperation flooded his voice. “Fine. Do you want to go out to dinner with me?”
“Yes.”
He stopped looking pissed off and irritated and looked confused and vulnerable. “You do?”
“Yes. I do.”
“Oh.”
“And you can buy me, flowers, too, if you want.”
His brows creased uncertainly.
“God, Ryan!” I exploded. “You drive me nuts, too, sometimes!”
He started to grin. “At least it’s mutual.” ~ within Chapter 18
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Allison, then please check out her website.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Blog Tour - Goodbye, Henrietta Street by Lin Treadgold | Interview & Spreading the Word

Today I'm turning my blog over to Lin Treadgold, who I interviewed about her debut novel "Goodbye, Henrietta Street!!" [Blog Tour will run from April 24 - May 9, 2013]

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



My Q&A with Lin Treadgold :

Jess : Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Lin : As an only child, I have always had a vivid imagination. I suppose in some ways I was born a novelist, never short of a story to tell. I was raised in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, on the north-east coast of England. My mother was a little known actress on TV and my father, proprietor of his own company in the motor trade. I travelled the world in my early twenties and saw life on ‘the other side’ through spending many voyages down on the west coast of Africa with the Merchant Navy. I was never a person to stand still and allow life to pass me by. I moved on in the next twenty five years and took my driving instructor exams, later to train driving instructors through owning my own training school. In 2002, I moved to Holland due to my husband’s job and the financial climate. It was then that I started writing, mainly through lack of direction, and having to give up my profession. The one thing I knew I could do was write stories. It was just a case of learning how to make my writing good enough to publish.

Jess : What do you like most about being a writer and being a driving instructor?

Lin : I miss my days as an instructor, the job suited me well. I now live with the satisfaction that my students were well trained and most passed their driving tests first time. Everyone had a degree of hang ups about driving a car. If I had helped them to overcome their fears and anxieties, I knew I had done a good job. I also taught the instructors and working with adults is very rewarding when you can make changes that the student thought wasn’t possible.

Writing for me is a release. I allow my mind to wander wherever it takes me. Give me a scenario and I rarely get writer’s block. I think you have to enjoy your writing as long as you can make a private place to sit at the computer and the family respects that place. Writing for me is very relaxing; I can immerse myself within the stories and enjoy living with the characters. Sometimes I feel it isn’t me who wrote about them!

Jess : Please describe your heroine, from "Goodbye, Henrietta Street," in one to two sentences.

Lin : Pippa Lambton is used to tragedy, with the loss of both parents and now her son. All she wants is to change her life and find a way through this living hell. Who could blame her? Can she possibly allow Sven into her life? She has just thought the unthinkable.

Jess : Is there one particular scene in "Goodbye, Henrietta Street" that you’re dying for readers to read? Can you tell us anything about it?

Lin : I think, for me, the most poignant moment is when Pippa holds back with Sven. Will one kiss change everything?

Jess : In regards to "Goodbye, Henrietta Street," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Lin : I have read through my novel for changes many times. I think the book is the perfect holiday read, for those who enjoy a saga with a romantic setting (The Isles of Scilly, Cornwall). If I was to make changes I would like to make Pippa’s character more secretive and Sven more rugged, but as it stands I am told Sven Jorgensen is a very likeable character anyway. I hope everyone will enjoy reading the story during their holiday journey or a commute on the train to work. I want the reader to immerse their mind within the beauty of the islands, the white beaches, and palm trees flowing in the breeze. The book also has a nature conservation theme too. I don’t think I would want to change any part of that.

Jess : Out of all of the secondary characters within "Goodbye, Henrietta Street," do you have one or two favorites so far? If so, who are they and can you tell us why?

Lin : My secondary characters live in Whitby, Yorkshire. I do feel sorry for Terry Marshall. His life has been a torment since he was a teenager. Without doing a spoiler on my readers, I have to say Terry needs a lot of understanding. How can he tell his wife, Joan, the things he has never been able to say to her? There is a heart-wrenching moment when he finally confesses why he found a job on the oil rig.

With Rob Lambton, Pippa’s husband, I do have mixed feelings about him. There are times when you have to feel sorry for him and yet moments when you can’t help thinking he could have made it easier on himself. All the characters are looking for a way forward in their lives after sadness.

Jess : How many books have you written?

Lin : This is my first novel. "Goodbye, Henrietta Street" is a romantic saga from 1986, based on an island in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s about love, sadness, forgiving, happier times and resolve, in an unusual setting.

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Lin : Yes I do have work in progress. This time I take the reader further back to the 1970’s a time of drugs, misunderstood people, cult beliefs, and hard times due to droughts and financial loss. I have a working title, but until I get it finished, the title will remain with me for now. Jessica Stamp takes a trip to the south of England as part of her travelling secretary lifestyle. When she arrives at her accommodation she discovers she is living on a hippy commune with a woman whom, it is rumoured, is a witch. Jess meets Jonni the herdsman, and between them they attempt to solve the mysteries surrounding the house where they live and the forthcoming handfasting of her daughter and future son in law.

I also have a novella in progress. The story is based around the lives of two people who meet due to someone playing a practical joke; they find their bicycles locked together at York rail station. Margie is watching them!

Jess : Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover? Any specific reason why?

Lin : I do enjoy a paperback book. I own a Kindle, but I love the feel of a real book, it’s the cover on the front that inspires me to visualise the scenery within the story. Kindle for me is bland and colourless.

Jess : List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Lin : I love the books by Annie Murray and have recently read two of them. "Papa Georgio" a novel for ages 9 – 90 years (Amazon.com link). "My Daughter, My Mother" (Amazon.com link).

My third (& fourth) book(s) I would recommend are from author Nora Fountain I enjoyed reading "Love Thine Enemy" and I am presently engrossed in "Jilted".



"Goodbye, Henrietta Street" by Lin Treadgold

Author's Book Description :
    An island paradise in Cornwall
    The eternal nature holiday or just a passing wave on the beach?

    Pippa Lambton's life has fallen apart and husband Rob is ready to give up their marriage. Three years before, their son Daniel passed away; he was the glue that held them together. Now, Pippa's left home for the beautiful Isles of Scilly, for a chance to rediscover herself. She meets handsome Norwegian nature warden, Sven Jorgensen, who teaches her about the island wildlife.

    Pippa finds herself laughing again. She is aware of Rob's dilemma over his childhood adoption and their turbulent relationship, but after an awkward kiss with Sven, she is torn about how to proceed. There is much to resolve, and leaving Rob could prove a disaster. Is her affair with Sven a holiday fling? How can she walk away from Rob after losing Daniel? Should she leave her home in Yorkshire for Sven and his island paradise? Find out more in Goodbye, Henrietta Street.



About the Author :

Lin Treadgold was born in Yorkshire and attended private education. She is a qualified driving instructor, and owned her own driving school for twenty-five years. After travelling the world and visiting over thirty countries, she retired in 2001 to folllow her husband’s work and live in the Netherlands. From her travelling experiences, she took the opportunity to become a writer and nature conservationist. She has always wanted to write a novel; moving to Holland gave her the opportunity to fulfill a dream.

Lin is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association and the Society of Authors, and organises workshop events for new writers.




Find Lin Treadgold :

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Teaser Tuesdays: One Night Heir

• Today's Teaser Tuesdays by MizB - click here

"One Night Heir" [By His Royal Decree Series, Book 1] by Lucy Monroe (aka L. C. Monroe)

Book Teaser:
"Has he told you he loved you yet?" Evelyn Harris, Gillian's nana and the woman who raised her, asked.
"No."
"Your grandfather has told me every night before we go to sleep for the last forty-eight years that he loves me."
"I know, Nana." But Maks was different. ~ within Chapter 1

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Billionaire's Pregnant Mistress | The Greek's Pregnant Lover | Valentino's Love-Child

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Feasted On: Pushing the Limits Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Hardcover - Pages: 462; Paperback - Pages: 462; Kindle Edition - File Size: 605 KB | Expected Release Date: May 28, 2013 | Publisher: Harlequin TEEN | Obtained: NetGalley

"Dare You To" [Pushing the Limits Series, Book 2] by Katie McGarry

My Book Summary : Everyone seems to call Ryan and his life perfect. Yet they hardly know what goes on behind the closed doors of his home---his parents seem to hate each other but won't divorce, his brother abandoned him after informing his family he was gay, and he just recently lost a dare to his best friends---being a baseball pitcher, his friends, and making sure he wins any dare that comes his way are the only things that keep him sane as of late...

That is until Beth--the girl that got him to lose his most recent dare--comes into his life and stays. His plan is to use his charm and find a way to win his original dare by getting to know Beth better. What Ryan doesn't realize is that Beth has plenty of secrets and does not intend to be friendly or getting close to him.

Nevertheless, they'll find that what they expect out of their futures is desperately going to change throughout the time that they spend together. Will they find that they like the changes that were made or will they be able to stick to who they used to be?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!! Two supposedly opposites find that they are drawn to each other in a way neither can explain yet both can't help but want to explore...

About the Characters:
• Elisabeth (Beth): Likes dying her blonde hair black after a bad experience when she was younger. Believes there isn't any other way to get her mom and herself out of their run down lives other than running away to a new future/another life. Has a hard time trusting anyone after everything she's been through. Doesn't understand love. Feels like she needs to protect and take care of her mother because of what her mother gave up for her. She's very protective of those she considers her friends. She has an immediate crush on Ryan when she meets him but tries to push and keep him away because she believes that no guy like him would ever go for a girl like her.

• Ryan: A baseball jock. Likes taking dares from his friends. Has a great writing talent. Has the ability to play pro baseball after high school. Starts getting to know Beth because of a dare. Is attracted to Beth when they first meet but when he really gets to know her he becomes even more hooked. Wishes his family wasn't falling apart around him. His parents try to make him appear to be the perfect son, so they'll appear to be the perfect family. Misses his brother.

• Isaiah: Beth's best friend ever since she moved to Louisville. Wants to help Beth escape her mother's influence. Believes he loves her more than as just a friend.

• Lacy: Beth's childhood best friend, who becomes her friend again once Beth moved back to Groveton. Chris' girlfriend.

• Scott: Beth's rich uncle. An ex-baseball player from the New York Yankees. Recently moved back to Groveton with his wife, Allison. When he heard that Beth was in trouble he "bribes" her to move in with him in hopes of giving her a better life, much to his wife's disappointment.

• Allison: Beth's aunt. Scott's wife. Ever since Scott and her moved to Groveton she has been trying to fit in with the "high society" of the town. Isn't happy about Beth moving into her house, especially after she meets the unruly teen. Doesn't get along with Beth.

• Chris: Ryan's best friend. Plays baseball and is a big baseball fan. Lacy's boyfriend. Enjoys beating Ryan in their dares.

• Logan: Ryan's close friend. Is the catcher on Ryan's baseball team. Is very smart. His friends believe he is fearless when it comes to almost anything.

• Sky: Beth's alcoholic mother.

• Noah: Beth's close friend who is like her brother. Echo's boyfriend. A main character in "Pushing the Limits."

• Echo: Noah's girlfriend. A main character in "Pushing the Limits." Beth finds her freaky and blames her for being the one to disrupt what was her life before Noah & Echo first got together.

• Miriam: Ryan's mother. Tries to make everyone believe everything is fine with her family. Isn't happy with her marriage to Andrew. Misses her oldest son, Mark. Wants her husband to run for Mayor.

• Andrew: Ryan's father. Isn't happy with his marriage to Miriam. Kicked his oldest son, Mark, out of his house during his summer home from college and doesn't want him coming back or to have any contact with anyone in the family once Mark informed them of his secret. Doesn't want anyone in Groveton to know about Mark's secret.

• Mark: Ryan's older brother. Andrew and Miriam's oldest son. His secret is that he's gay and isn't accepted by his family. Is/was very close to Ryan before his secret came out, mostly Mark's choice not why they weren't close anymore.

• Gwen: Ryan's ex-girlfriend. Plays games with Ryan's feelings and uses her knowledge about Beth's past to try to drive a wedge between Ryan and Beth. Aka a bitch!

• Trent: Sky’s “boyfriend.” When he gets mad, he beats up Sky and Beth. A druggie and a drug dealer. The police are after him but need more evidence to arrest him.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, from reading about Ryan & Beth's blooming romance to Beth coming into her own when finding out that her life doesn't need to revolve around taking care of her mother. A touching romance makes you root for these unique characters from the beginning. I only wish there was more!

Yet I cannot wait to read Isaiah's story, "Crash Into You."

I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading YA romances, especially ones that involve what seem to be an opposites attract type of situation.

Author's Novel Extras : Dare You To - Overview | What character are you most like? | What's Next? Apocalypsies in 2013 and Beyond! | Back Cover Copy and Flap for Dare You To | UK Cover for Dare You To


Author's Series Extras : Pushing the Limits - Overview | Pushing the Limits - Playlist | Crossing the Line - Overview | Crossing the Line - Playlist | Crash Into You - Overview | Deleted Scenes | Updated Playlist for Pushing the Limits | Comments for Pacfic Northwest Writers Associations 2010 Literary Contest | Pushing the Limits - Title Change | Continuation of Pushing the Limits series! | Finished!!!! | Muse | Paint | Changes | Can You | France and BEA! | Pushing the Limits Street Team!!!! | Bad Romance, ALA, and First Four Chapters | Pushing the Limits Query Statistics | Book Trailer! | Can You - Rock Version | Pushing the Limits Book Cover | Two Essential Ways to Build Your Characters | Upcoming Events | Pushing the Limits Twitter Chat | Q&A with Katie: The Summer After | Why doesn't Pushing the Limits have a prom scene? | YAmazing Race | Goodreads Choice Nominee | Paperback Cover Reveal | Kentucky Book Fair and Goodreads Choice Semifinal Round | Goodreads Choice Finals! | Cover Reveal and Deleted Scene! | Dare You To Cover and Pushing the Limits Deleted Scene | Pushing the Limits 6th Place in Goodreads Choice Awards! | Secondary Characters | Pushing the Limits $1.99 at Amazon | Pushing the Limits E-book On Sale | Isaiah's Book Crash Into You | Crossing the Line Cover Reveal and Contest | Spring Events | Crossing the Line Teaser! | Crossing the Line Teaser #2! | Crossing the Line Teaser Three | Dare You To ARC Giveaway | Crossing the Line Teaser Four | Happy Book Birthday Crossing the Line | Exciting News

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :
"Where are you taking her Friday?"
"Not far. Actually, it'll border your property and my dad's. My best friend lives on the other side of you and we invite friends over to hang out."
Scott fights amusement and tenses at the same time. "You're taking my niece to a field party."
I swallow.
"I grew up fifteen miles from Groveton," says Scott. "I know what a field party is, having attended more than a few myself."
Busted. "I thought it would be a good opportunity for her to spend time with my friends."
Scott rubs his jawline. "I don't know."
I have to give him more. Lots more. "I like Beth. She's pretty." Yeah, she is. "She's more than pretty. She's not like any girl I've met before. Beth keeps me on the edge. With her, I have no idea what's coming next and I find that..." Amazing. Thrilling. "Fun."
Scott says nothing back and I'm glad. Until I said the words---words I thought I was creating to impress him---I had no idea they were true. ~ within a chapter titled 'Ryan'
Ryan has that smile again. The genuine one that makes my stomach flip. He had it at Taco Bell. He had it when Scott introduced us. He does it with such ease and for a second I believe his smile is for me.
"You're smiling," he says.
I absently touch my face as if I'm surprised by the news.
"You should do that more. It's pretty." He pauses. "You're pretty."
My heart does this strange fluttering. Like it's stopping and starting at the same time. Heat creeps up my neck and flushes my face. What the hell? I'm blushing again?
"I'm sorry." Ryan keeps his endearing smile, but it turns a little repentant and his eyes cast down in a shy way.
"No, it was fun." The most fun I've had in weeks. The most fun I've had sober in...my mind ticks back and I come up empty-handed. ~ within a chapter titled 'Beth'
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Katie, then please check out her website.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Blog Tour - Idolizing In: The Boys of Summer by C. J. Duggan | Guest Post & Review

Today I'm turning my blog over to C. J. Duggan, who is discussing the parallels between her life and that of "The Boys of Summer". [Blog Tour will run from April 15 - 21, 2013]

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



Does "The Boys Of Summer" have any parallels that could be drawn from your life? :

I grew up in a small country town in Australia so I am well aware of what it’s like to have to make your own fun. Unfortunately our town wasn’t set on the banks of Lake Onslow but it was still a nice place to live. My first job was working as a barmaid at the local hotel and I remember the fear of my first shift and learning the ropes. The one thing I do love hearing is when a reader connects with my characters, I think there are parallels in not only my life when growing up but for many others too.



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 320; Kindle Edition - File Size: 498 KB | Release Date: December 19, 2012 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: IMR Blog Tours

"The Boys of Summer" [Summer Series, Book 1] by C. J. Duggan

My Book Summary : Seventeen-year-old Tess is just happy that her school year is over and summer time is beginning. All she wants to do is spend lazy days and fun nights with her two best friends, Ellie & Adam, around Lake Onslow. However, that doesn't seem to be on her friends’ game plan because as the last few days of school descend they finally convince her to help out at Adam's Uncle Eric's hotel as waitresses for the summer. Definitely not what she had hoped to do but enjoying a little spending money wouldn't hurt either.

Yet during the last day of school party Adam accidentally break his arm, which gets him grounded by his parents and sent away to his grandmother's in the city for the summer.

Now with one friend gone and the other boy crazy, Tess doesn't have the best hopes for the summer. That all changes once Ellie and her meet and become friends with 'The Onslow Boys,' four twenty-two-year-old guys who hang out in the poolroom section of the bar a lot after work one of whom just happens to be Tess' long-time crush Tobias (Toby)! Tess' summer starts to really look up ...

That is if Tess can get over the fact that Toby has a mean/gorgeous girlfriend whom she’s is jealous of, as well as getting over her own anxiety from lying to her parents so much about her late night activities, and see if she can use this summer to finally get out of her shell and have some fun!!

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars--a teenage girl grows up and comes into her own during the summer before her Year Twelve begins because of good friends, forbidden love, and a whole lot of fun late night activities!

I fell in love with this novel, mostly because of how Tess blooms throughout it and because of her unique and growing relationship with Toby. They were so sweet together. Plus, I loved how she seemed to make him a better version of himself too.

The Onslow Boys, especially Sean & Toby, along with Adam & Chris were a fun bunch to read about! I enjoyed reading about the antics they got into, while all of them being great friends and a nice sounding board for Tess throughout this novel. Also, the staff at the hotel was fun too from their rowdy ways to their unusual styles!

It made me wish, at times, that the novel would never end! Therefore, I now can't wait to read Sean & Amy's story in "An Endless Summer," book 2 in this series, coming out in July 2013! They seem like an interesting pair but I liked them as individual characters so I hope it'll be as good as I hope!

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes YA/NA romances!

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Spreading the Word: The Boys of Summer | Spreading the Word: An Endless Summer

Author's Novel Extras : The Boys of Summer - Overview | NaNo. How I wrote 40k in 6 days. And survived! | Some Crazy Cool News! | Cover Reveal. The Boys of Summer | Honey, I'm Home! | Music Soothes the Editing Beast | Do a girl a favour? | Would you look at that! | A Taste Test Blog Tour | A Taste Test Blog Tour- CJ Duggan | Moving Heads. | Living A Lie. | Exciting Times! | You like me, you really like me! | Indie Revolution Day Six - C.J. Duggan | WHAT was I thinking? | AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: C.J. Duggan | No Time For Love :( | Calm Before the Storm. | The Boys of Summer RELEASE date! | One WEEK till 'The Boys of Summer' release! | The Boys of Summer is finally HERE! | There Are No Words. | Paperbacks Now Available. Lets Rock it Old School. | Release Week in Review. | Look Whats on iTunes! | The Boys of Summer hits Number One! | A Barnes and Noble Bargain!


Author's Series Extras : An Endless Summer - Overview | Summer Series Music | A MASSIVE Decision. | My New Years Resolution. | I think I'm in trouble. | COVER REVEAL: An Endless Summer.

Book Teaser(s) :
"Toby has a girlfriend?" Ellie asked. "No, he doesn't. Who?"
I sighed. "Yeah, perfect Angela."
"Oh yeah, we hate her," Ellie said.
For the smallest of moments, I had forgotten. Like when he stepped out of the darkness at the party, or the way he looked at me when I brought the meals into the bar, or the feel of his hand touching mine. No doubt I had over-analysed his every moment, his every facial expression, but I'm allowed to. That's what girls do. For those fleeting moments, however, I had managed to forget all about Angela Vickers.
"So they're still together?" Ellie asked.
"I see her car parked at his place all the time," I said.
Ellie gasped. "What are you doing outside his house? You total stalker!"
"Shut up!" I said, blushing. ~ within Chapter 7
"So I have to ask. Did you happen to receive a pie this week?"
Sean looked at me blankly.
"A Summer Berry pie?"
Still nothing. I shook my head. "Unbelievable, you wait 'til I see that Toby Morrison."
A spark of recognition flickered in his grey-blue eyes.
"If you are referring to a parcel I received at work containing a crust of a pie with a note saying, 'Tess made us pie. It was delicious', then, yes, I received a secondhand portion of pie."
My jaw fell open. "That is so mean. The pies were meant to be for all of you."
"Pies? Plural?" ~ within Chapter 26
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by C. J., then please check out her website.



About the Author :

C.J Duggan is an Australian author who lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales, Australia.
"The Boys Of Summer" is Book One in her Mature Young Adult Romance Series.
For more on C.J and ‘The Summer Series’, visit www.cjdugganbooks.com.







Find C. J. Duggan :

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

What was I thinking?: The Kissing Booth by Beth Reekles

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 440; Kindle Edition - File Size: 503 KB | Expected Release Date: April 25, 2013 | Publisher: Random House Children's Publishers UK: Corgi Books | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Kissing Booth" by Beth Reekles

What was I thinking? : I liked the cover and the author's book description sounded interesting. I really wanted to like it. However, it feel a bit sort for my liking. =0/

Author's Book Description : Meet Rochelle “Elle” Evans: pretty, popular—and never been kissed.

Meet Noah Flynn: badass, volatile—and a total player.

When Elle decides to run a kissing booth at her school's Spring Carnival, she locks lips with Noah and her life is turned upside down. Her head says to keep away, but her heart wants to draw closer. This romance seems far from a fairy tale.

Is Elle headed for heartbreak or will she get her happily ever after?

My Book Review : 1.5 out of 5 stars. Two teenagers, who have grown up around each other, find that they have stronger feelings for each other then they would have ever imagined. If only they could open up to everyone about their feelings for each other, and not have to have a secret relationship...

I really wanted to like this novel, mostly because I had such high hopes for Noah. But because of Elle's whiny-stubbornness throughout this whole novel, I really had to trudge through to finish it.

I understand that Elle was just displaying typical teenage girl "gitters" about first dates and all. I just really wish that she would have "womaned-up" a bit when it came to telling her best friend/Noah's brother, Lee, when it came to her feelings for Noah better then it was handled.

I will say that because of the way this novel plays out, I'm very happy with how it ended. I mean I would have LOVED to see a whole big romantic ending. Yet, for this novel and everything that Elle and Noah go through I'm glad to see that she was fairly open-minded about it all, willing to hope for the best but support Noah and his dreams.

If this is part of a series, I am very interested as to see what Elle, and Noah, will be up to next.

I recommend it only to those who LOVE teenage angst romances.

Author's Novel Extras : The Kissing Booth [Sample; entire ebook available 13/12/12] | 21st Jan 2013 | 23rd Jan 2013 | 29th Jan 2013 | 30th Jan 2013 | 15th Feb 2013 - post 1 | 15th Feb 2013 - post 2 | 7th Mar 2013 | 19th Mar 2013 - post 1 | 19th Mar 2013 - post 2 | 19th Mar 2013 - post 3 | 3rd Apr 2013 - post 1 | 3rd Apr 2013 - post 2 | 4th Apr 2013 | 9th Apr 2013 - post 1 | 9th Apr 2013 - post 2 | 12th Apr 2013 | 16th Apr 2013 | 17th Apr 2013

Author's Series Extras : The Beach House - Novella to The Kissing Booth

Author's Book Interview(s) :

Book Teaser(s) :
I got in the car.
As Noah slid into the driver's seat, he sighed, 'Thank you.'
I nodded. 'You didn't need to yell so much.'
After a second he said, 'I know. I'm sorry.'
I sat there, fiddling with the frayed rips in my jeans. 'Patrick didn't do anything, you know.'
'He would've.'
'We just went out for some fresh air. Is that a crime?'
'Is that what he said?'
'W-well, yeah . . .' I faltered.
Noah sighed heavily, leaning his head against the steering wheel in exasperation before he sat up and looked me in the eye. He looked a lot calmer now, if a bit hopeless.
'And you really thought he meant you were going out for fresh air?'
'At first I did.' ~ within Chapter 12
'Well, that was the summer after I'd started getting into fights at school and shit: my parents sent me to see a couple of counselors. They were trying to help, I know that. But the thing is . . .' He sighed a little. 'They tried, but failed miserably. I'm a bad boy and always will be. Guess it's just the way my brain's wired up.' He shrugged like he couldn't care less.
I really liked these rare conversations where I saw the Noah behind the sexy smirk; when he let me see his vulnerable side. I never knew he'd been to see counselors -- maybe Lee didn't even know about it.
'You're cute when you look all embarrassed like that,' I teased, lightening the mood.
'One, I'm not embarrassed,' he said, knowing I was joking. 'And two' -- he bumped his knee against mine -- 'don't call me cute.'
I laughed now, and he gave me a smile, one that flashed the dimple in his left cheek. ~ within Chapter 16
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Beth, then please check out her website.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Spreading the Word: An Endless Summer

"An Endless Summer" [Summer Series, Book 2] by C. J. Duggan

Imprint : Self-Published
Audience : YA
Novel length : TBA
Format : TBA
Expected Publication Released Date : July 17, 2013

Author's Book Cover :

Author's Book Description :
    Sean looked out over the lake, squinting against the sunlight. He turned to me, his expression sobering as his eyes flicked over my face in a silent study.

    “Come on Amy, I saved you once, I’ll save you again.”
    I met his stare unflinchingly. “I don’t need saving.”
    A wicked grin formed slowly. “Don’t you?”


    After a rebellious summer night that almost claimed her life, Amy Henderson – the Onslow publican’s only daughter – is sent away to suffer a fate far worse than any other punishment:

    Boarding School.

    Three years on, a now nineteen-year-old Amy returns to Onslow for the summer. What once was a cauldron of activity with live bands, hot meals and cold beers, the Onslow Hotel now lies dark, deserted and depressing. All fond childhood memories of loitering on the hotel stairs and eavesdropping on customers’ colourful conversations are in the distant past.

    How had her dad let it come to this?

    With the new threat of putting the Onslow up for sale, Amy reluctantly turns to a local tradesman for help: Sean Murphy, the very same Onslow boy who saved her life all those years ago. With his help and that of some old friends, the task is clear: spend the summer building the hotel back up to its former glory or lose it for good.

    In an endless summer, Amy soon realises that sometimes in order to save your future, you have to face your past, even if it’s in the form of a smug, gorgeous Onslow boy.

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **

Find C. J. Duggan :

Monday, April 15, 2013

Spreading the Word: The Boys of Summer

"The Boys of Summer" [Summer Series, Book 1] by C. J. Duggan

Imprint : Self-Published
Audience : YA
Novel length : 320 pages
Format : Paperback and eBook
Publication Released Date : December 19, 2012

Author's Book Cover :

Author's Book Description :
    It seemed only natural to nickname them the “Onslow Boys". Every time they swaggered in the front door of the Onslow Hotel after a hard week's work; their laughter loud and genuine as they settled onto their bar stools. I peeked through the restaurant partition; a flimsy divider between my world and theirs. I couldn't help but smile whenever I saw them, saw him.... Toby Morrison.

    Quiet, 17-year-old Tess doesn’t relish the thought of a Summer time job. She wants nothing more than to forget the past haunts of high school and have fun with her best friends before dreaded Year 12 begins.

    To Tess, summer is when everything happens: riding bikes down to the lake, watching the fire works at the Onslow show, and water bomb fights at the sweltering Sunday markets.

    How did she let her friends talk her into working?

    After first shift disasters, rude wealthy tourists, and a taunting ex boyfriend, Tess is convinced nothing good can come from working her summer away. However, Tess finds unlikely allies in a group of locals dubbed ‘The Onslow Boys’, who are old enough to drive cars, drink beer, and not worry about curfews. Tess’s summer of working expands her world with a series of first times with new friends, forbidden love, and heartbreaking chaos.

    All with the one boy she has never been able to forget.

    It will be a summer she will always remember.

    Warning: sexual references and occasional course language

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com - U.S. (Paperback), Amazon.com - U.S. (Ebook), Amazon.com - U.K. (Paperback), Amazon.com - U.K. (Ebook), Barnes & Noble, iTunes, Kobo & Smashwords

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **

Find C. J. Duggan :

Friday, April 12, 2013

Blog Tour - Feasted On: Tempted by the Storm by Maxine Mansfield | Review & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Maxine Mansfield, with a review of her novel "Tempted by the Storm," which is the 2nd book in The Academy of Magical Arts Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to comment on this post to be able to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from April 1 - 12, 2013]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 370; Kindle Edition - File Size: 552 KB | Release Date: October 15, 2012 | Publisher: The Wild Rose Press | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions

"Tempted by the Storm" [The Academy of Magical Arts Series, Book 2] by Maxine Mansfield

My Book Summary : Larksong (Lark) was born a spiritmaster. Making her strong in the ways of mind-over-mind and mind-over-matter meaning her emotions can control the weather around her and more. It also meant that she was the outcast of the family and her mother always made it known to Lark that she wasn't who her mother wanted because she wasn't a boy and of her abilities. Therefore, she has become her older sister's--Aryanna--companion knowing that her family will never allow her to marry and have a family of her own.

A few days before Lark is charged with attending The Academy of Magical Arts with her sister so Aryanna can meet her betrothed, Aryanna encourages Lark to attend the Carnalval (a masked party where inhibitions rain free) where Lark meets the man of her dreams...

The only down part is that after a wild night of passion she sneaks a peak under his mask, while he's sleeping, just to fully appreciate his handsomeness only to realize she knows who he is! His name is Sarco and just happens to be the future Lord of the High Elves, as well as, he's Aryanna's betrothed!

Now Sarco and her have to deal with their passions, responsibilities, and find out what is more important to them in the end... honor, love, passion, truth, or all of the above if they can manage it.

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!! This novel is the perfect mix of hilarity, adventurousness, family love/loyalty, and erotic love scenes!! With its great cast of characters this novel, and series, is one that I feel every adult that reads it will enjoy at least some aspect of it!

I enjoyed reading about Lark & Sarco's struggle between their hearts and their duty. Especially when they both realized that they never truly put themselves first before and no matter how much they want to now they can't because they care too much for their families and their people to do that to them. Nevertheless, these two make a great duo, from their magical talents to their sense of humor they complement each other very well.

Also, even though I understand why they did the things, they did and even though they make a good pair too, I wasn't really a fan of Aryanna & Cyrrick (Lark's sister & Sarco's brother). Mostly because of the way, they handled everything regarding their love and trying to manipulate Lark & Sarco into meeting/being together so that Aryanna & Cyrrick could be together instead of following the prophecy, which was putting Sarco & Aryanna together. --I hope I didn't confuse you ... I know I almost confused myself.-- =0) Anyway, Aryanna & Cyrrick are a good match up too I just wish they did things differently. Yet, I liked how they make up for everything in the last couple of chapters in the book.

Who really stole the show in this novel, though, was Leeky & Laycee (Sarco & Lark's gnomes)! They were a cute little pair with their multipurpose sex dolls Miss Bunny & Tug. While being some of the comic relief in this novel they also held their own by begin the voice of reason for Lark & Sarco. Plus, it was enjoyable to read about Leeky's multitude of "special" gloves he had to wear and his "roguish" ways.

All in all, there was never a dull moment while reading this novel. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did! Now I'm very intrigued to read the rest of this series!

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes fantasy romances!

- On a side note -
This novel had so many funny moments that I wanted to share in my teaser section (see below) that I had a hard time choosing.

Author's Series Extras : Leekyism's ta live by | Leekyism of the Day | Leekyism of the Day | Leekyism of the Day :) | Leeky's Day | A Leeky Tuesday Afternoon | Another Leeky Tuesday Afternoon | Just Another Leeky Friday Morning | Just Another Slushy Leeky Morning | Touched by the Magic out May 4th | Sinful Sirens Blog Tour | To be, or not to be NAUGHTY :)

Book Teaser(s) :
First day of classes, and could a nice, welcoming lecture with perhaps a simple homework assignment be sufficient? Oh, no, not for Sarco “The Tormentor” Sunwalker.
After listening to a full hour of mind-numbing facts on ancient wizard history, the class had retired to the arena for what Sarco “The Sadist” Sunwalker described as weeding out the weak.
Lark closed her eyes and concentrated on trying to suck sufficient air into her lungs. The ache in her ribs reminded her that deep breathing wasn’t a function she’d be performing again anytime soon. Nausea threatened to rid her of what little she’d been able to force down at lunch as images raced through her head of what Sarco “The Evil Spawn from the Valley of Torment” Sunwalker had gleefully labeled Wizard Lab. ~ within Chapter 6
Tears burned the corners of Lark’s eyes.
She caught Sarco’s eye, and he smiled that mischievous smile she so loved. A familiar warmth seeped into her mind.
“I don’t like your mother, Wonderful. How much do you want to bet she has that same sour expression on her face when your father gets up the nerve to actually ask her for sex? I’d wager she even critiques the poor fellow’s performance in bed. ‘To the right...no, your other right, barbarian! Faster, faster—no, slower. Oh, just get off of me and forget it.’”
Lark covered her mouth with both hands, trying her best to suppress a laugh. Her face burned even hotter, knowing none of the other people at the table were privy to what Sarco had just thought. They probably thought she was not only a glutton and a mistake, but an idiot to boot.
“Stop it. You’re going to get me in so much trouble.”
His slow, lazy smile made her heart thump wildly. ~ within Chapter 13
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Maxine, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Hi, my name is Maxine Mansfield and I write romantic fantasy. I live in the far northern state of Alaska where the summer days are long and the winter nights even longer.

I have one very special man, our three equally special children, and six delightful grandchildren in my life. Not to mention a very bossy African Grey parrot named Gabriel.

Oh, and Gnomes! many, many gnomes.




Book Excerpt :

There was only one word that could describe the creature standing before him. Wonderful.

“Did you say something?” the woman whispered.

He shook his head. “Nothing, I just can’t believe my luck. You really are real and here with me.”

She smiled, but her smile didn’t extend to her eyes.

Before another heartbeat passed or another breath taken, he stood at her side. With tenderness, he gazed into her gentle, masked face and took both of her hands in his. He was humbled as her fingers trembled even more than his own did. “We don’t have to do this if you’d rather not.”

She smiled wider, and her eyes gleamed with mischief. “I suppose we might as well. After all, we’re already here, and you’re at least halfway undressed.”

Sliding his hands up her arms and around her shoulders to her back, Sarco felt for and found the clasps holding her gown together. With the flick of a wrist, they gave way, and with a swish, the silky fabric fell to her hips exposing lush, rose-tipped breasts. Just the right size to hold in both hands, to fondle, to caress, to taste.

“Hmm, it seems you’re halfway undressed yourself.”



Giveaways!! :

  • A Tempted by the Storm themed gift bag to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour (US/CANADA ONLY)

To Enter : Please leave a comment on this post, with a valid email address included at the end of it.

Soo .... COMMENT, COMMENT, COMMENT on this post!! And you could WIN!! =0)

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites! Commenting on the other stops on the tour will also increase your chance of winning!



Find Maxine Mansfield :
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