Friday, December 14, 2012

Guest Post :: God with Us . . . And Us with Him by Susan May Warren | 12 Pearls of Christmas & Giveaway

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items (books, a gift pack, music CDs) from the contributors! Enter now on Facebook or at the Pearl Girls blog. The winner will announced on January 2, 2013 at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of "Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith," "Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace" or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls™.



"God with Us . . . And Us with Him" by Susan May Warren

Every year over labor day weekend, the Warren family has a MWE. Mandatory Warren Event. It’s a call to come home and enjoy the long weekend with our favorite people. Since my children have left for college, I relish every second of this weekend—the laughter in the kitchen, the long conversations in the family room, the frenzy of backyard football, the quietness of the morning as we drink coffee on the deck and watch the sunrise. I cherish these people, and when they are with me, I drink in their presence.

I’ve been reading the prophecies about Christ this season and came across Isaiah 7:14, Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

I am struck by the word Immanuel. God with us. The closest I get to comprehending this is reading about how Jesus’ loved his disciples. Surely they relished the time with him more profoundly after his resurrection, knowing he would soon leave.

Thankfully, he didn’t leave them for long and sent His Holy Spirit. God . . . still with them.

As I consider the magnitude of this God who would come to earth, who would abide with the disciples, and then with me, I have to wonder not only do I relish God’s presence in my life, but does God relish time with me? Am I committed to embracing His entrance into my life? Am I even making the effort to see Him?

Imagine that during our MWE weekend, I ignored my children, and they, me? I would lose the joy of their presence.

It is not surprising to me that the Jewish people did not recognize their Savior. After all, who would guess that the Almighty might package himself as a baby and appear among them, fragile and dependent? But today, we know the story, we know the miracles, we know the truth, and God invites us into an abundant relationship, one that He wishes to relish, one that will change us. A relationship that will slake our thirsts and satisfy our hungers. One that reminds us that we are never alone.

Because every day we are a mandatory event to our Immanuel.

This season, look for the ways that God is your Immanuel, with you, every day.



About the Author :

Susan May Warren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 40 novels. With over 750,000 books in print, her stories of family, romance and adventure have earned her acclaim and reader fans from around the world. Visit her website for upcoming books and sneak peeks!

My Previous Guest Post(s) by this Author : Enjoy the Ride! - December 2011



Find Susan May Warren :

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Lust After Death by Daisy Harris | Review & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Daisy Harris, with a review of her novel "Lust After Death," which is the 1st book in Love-Bots 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 on December 12, 2012]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 200 KB | Release Date: July 2011 | Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Publishing | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions

"Lust After Death" [Love-Bots Series, Book 1] by Daisy Harris

My Book Summary : Bane is an assassin on a mission save a new love-bot “stein,” a re-animate human who has to do whatever their “master” says, that the organization he works for, the Zombie Underground, recently heard about. However, after rescuing over 30 steins throughout the years he is still unprepared to deal with the one he's trying to save, Josie.

She's beyond attractive, bright, creative, strong in her own ways, and innocent to everything around her. Therefore, Bane knows he shouldn't be with her even though he wants to. Yet when he finds out that in Josie's programming she is required to have a husband for her to survive Bane steps up to the plate to play that role.

Together they learn more about themselves then they ever thought they knew, so much so that there might be hope for them together after all. If only they can protect each other from Josie's “master” and the evil company he works for...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! A zombie-ish love that holds no bounds! This is a sweetly erotic novel that takes the term "finding your soul-mate" to a whole new extreme. Josie and Bane are "free" steins, which to me sound kind of like the cyborgs on Star Trek only being more humanoid then what that show portrays, and they are perfect counterparts for one another! It's a novel full of intrigue and I LOVED the cute little epilogue at the end!

I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys sci-fi and futuristic romances!

Author's Novel Extras : New Cover LUST!! | Lust After Death: Sex...With Zombies!! (Not as Gross as it Sounds) | Six Sentence Sunday: LUST AFTER DEATH | Check out My Design SKILLZ | (Filthy) Six Sentence Sunday | Sunday Six: LUST AFTER DEATH | Because I Am Awesome... | New Review for Lust After Death! | Great New Review for Lust After Death

Author's Series Extras : About the Series | Freakin’ Awesome Friday: Sunshine Edition | Sunday Six: Studenstein | Six Sentence Sunday: STUDENSTEIN!! | Random Studenstein Excerpt | Excerpt: STUDENSTEIN First Scene | Final Stop: Lust After Death Blog Tour!! | Latest News: Love-Bots 4: One Night Steined is Done! | Built 4 It (Coming Soon Love-Bots) has a COVER! And it is HAWT! | *One Night Steined* haz a smokin’ hawt cover! | Latest Release: *One Night Steined*

Book Teaser(s) :
Josie scooted closer, until she nestled against the length of him. A little jolt of excitement shot through her to feel his firm backside against her hips, and she angled her body until those mounds pressed into the cradle of her groin. Of course, that necessitated her laying a hand on his upper arm for balance, and her face pressed between his shoulder blades.
“What are you doing?” The pillow muffled his voice.
Josie stopped shuffling, realizing she’d been pawing him. “Nothing, just getting comfortable.” Instinct told her to pull away and roll back to her side of the tent. Bane’s muscles felt stiff under her fingers. But she didn’t want to let go.
“I only have so much self-­control, babe.” ~ within Chapter 5
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Daisy, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Birkenstock-wearing glamour girl and mother of two by immaculate conception, Daisy Harris still isn't sure if she writes erotica. Her romances start out innocently enough. However, her characters behave like complete sluts. Much to Miss Harris's dismay the sex tends to get completely out of hand.

She writes about fantastical creatures and about young men getting their freak on, and she's never missed an episode of The Walking Dead.




Book Excerpt :

Drizzling rain filled the air as Josie clamored up the trail after Bane. Her feet swam in the rain boots he’d given her and she considered that he hadn’t really thought through this plan very well in not bringing her clothes from Adam’s house.

The path curved up a hill, through tall trees whose branches overlapped and wide-spanning trunks that dropped leaves the size of her head.

He hitched his backpack higher on his shoulders and cinched the waistband tighter on his hips. The move drew her attention to the way the smooth and stretchy material of his trousers hung from his behind. Her fingers tingled to reach out and pinch the bunched muscles of his buttocks.

That brief glimpse of his thoughts echoed in her mind. Clearly he hadn’t meant to do her harm and now that the shock faded, she observed it from a different angle. Josie wondered at the snippet, curious about where it might have led.

She ran her hands through the brush that rose around her. Each branch was filled with droplets. Spikes pricked on some plants, others felt smooth. One felt soft and downy at first, then stung her curious fingers and Josie pulled her hand to her chest. Her legs ached as they summited the hilltop.

Bane led her a small ways down the other side and he pointed to a small clearing. “It won’t be the softest night’s sleep. But I’m so dead on my feet I won’t care.”

Josie cocked her head to the side and noticed the way his body slumped forward and his feet dragged. “This’ll be fine.”



Giveaways!! :

  • A $20 Amazon or Barnes & Noble Gift Card and a Walking Dead T-Shirt 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 Daisy Harris :

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Teaser Tuesdays: Just a Cowboy and His Baby

• Today's Teaser Tuesdays by MizB - click here

"Just a Cowboy and His Baby" [Spikes & Spurs Series, Book 6] by Carolyn Brown

Book Teaser:
Evil shot from his dark eyes. The air around him crackled when he raised his head and glared at her. He'd been bred, born, and raised for that night and she didn't have a chance against his wiles. He was bigger than she was and he knew it. He was meaner and he'd prove it.
Gemma O'Donnell didn't give a damn how big or how mean he was. She intended to be in control from the minute she mounted him. The message from the set of his head and unwavering stare said that she was an idiot not to shake in her cowgirl boots. She glared right back, her dark green eyes meeting his near black ones and locking through the metal bars separating them.
He dared.
She challenged. ~ within Chapter 1

What was I thinking?: Barboza Brothers Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 403 KB | Release Date: November 8, 2012 | Publisher: Sugar Shack Press | Obtained: Smashwords

"Fresh Temptation" [Barboza Brothers Series, Book 1] by Reeni Austin

What was I thinking? : Well, I liked the cover--thought it was cute. And the author's description made it sound like it would be a keeper ... I just wished it was since it wasn't for me.

Author's Book Description : Victor Barboza is a man who has everything but a good woman.

Cara Green has a young son, three part-time jobs, and a few extra pounds.

Their worlds collide as Cara serves Victor at an upscale party in Manhattan, upsetting Victor's ex-fiancee, Alexis, in the process.

Victor pursues Cara, but Cara is not sure of his intentions: Is he using her to make Alexis jealous? Does he just want her for sex? Or is love Victor's true aim?

My Book Review : 1.5 out of 5 stars, this is a novel about finding love in unusual places. I liked the meaning that underlines the plot of this story. I also really liked Victor, or as little, Isaac called him "Big Toe" or "Bictow!"

However, even though I understand why Cara was so paranoid when it came to Victor coming into her life and getting close to Isaac, I didn't like how stubborn, rude, and willing give up on what was important in her life without putting up a fight so easily. It made me thoroughly annoyed with her throughout 90% of this novel.

Plus, I hated Alexis then even more so when everything just turned out fine at the very end with her. Gah! I wish she got mad about what was done to her instead of being so accepting. Which I know makes me seem like I'm being mean, but come ON that girl deserved something bad happening to her.

Then to top it off towards the end of the novel it seemed to go from one scene to start right up within the middle of the next scene, which left me a bit confused about how the hell that happened.

Overall, I just wished it was better. So, I don't recommend it. Yet on Amazon.com there are 27--or more by now--reviews with 4/5 stars and on Smashwords a majority of the reviews have 4/5 too, so who knows you might be like the majority and like it better than I did. *shrug*

Author's Novel Extras :


Book Teaser(s) :
Gary chuckled. “Believe me, rumors were flying when he hired me, too.”
“You mean, people thought...you and him?”
“Yes.” He nodded. “Yes, they did. And it didn’t help that I made the mistake of telling someone how hot I thought he was.”
Cara laughed out loud. “Oh no.”
“Yes.” Gary let out an exasperated sigh. “I won’t make that mistake again. The rumors were already going but I sure didn’t help. That’s when I found out how much Mr. Barboza likes to stay out of the office gossip. He doesn’t care what people say until it affects him somehow, and one of the other partners mentioned it to him. That’s when he sat me down and told me he didn’t have time for drama and he expected me to keep everything private in this office.”
“He actually approached you about it?”
“Yes. But the odd thing is, he thought it was kind of funny that anyone thought he and I were an item.” He chuckled for a few moments then cleared his
throat. ~ within Chapter 8
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Reeni, then please check out her website.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Captivated By You by Diane Alberts | Character Interview, Review, & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Diane Alberts, who I had a character interview with one of the main characters from her latest novella "Captivated By You," which is the 1st book in her Superstars in Love Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour will run from November 12 - December 28, 2012 | Giveaway ends on December 31, 2012 | "Hot Holidays" Twitter Chat is scheduled for December 20, 9:00 pm EST, hosted by @swoonromance, and that will include authors such as Diane Alberts, Michelle Zink, Cora Carmack, Nicola Marsh, Carolina Jordan and Samantha Spencer]



My Q&A with a character from "Captivated By You" :

Character's Name : Mark
Character's Age : twenty-six
Character's Appearance : Movie star attractive, brown hair, very muscular yet lean.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

First, I’d like to say thank you so much for having me here today! ~clears throat~ Okay. Well, I’m a movie star. Been living in the spotlight for the last eight years. I mostly do romance movies, but I’m hoping to branch out into something different soon.

What is your favorite article of clothing?

Oh, that’s an easy one. The Prada jacket I wore when I knocked on Lacey’s door. I’ll always love that coat.

What is your favorite book?

Harry Potter. Lacey and I read the whole series together.

What is your favorite food?

Filet mignon with seasoned onions. Mashed potatoes on the side, with lots of brown gravy. I could eat that meal every single day, and die a happy man.

Do you have a favorite place to go and/or vacation spot?

Colorado. It’s where I grew up, and it’s where I fell in love. It’ll always be my favorite place on Earth—followed closely by Hawaii.

Is there anything that you ever regret for having done? If so, can you tell us about it?

~frowns~ Not writing Lacey back. I regret that every second of every day.

What is one thing you wouldn't be caught dead doing?

Going to church. I never really went, and I fear the church would set on fire if I stepped foot inside of it.

What is one of the most romantic things you’ve done or have had done to you?

I don’t like to brag about romantic things I’ve done...so I’ll say one Lacey did. I came home from a grueling business trip last week, and she met me at the door wearing a soft red dress, killer heels, and a glass of my favorite wine. We sat down on the couch, sipping wine, while a cook prepared a meal. She brought the man in from my favorite restaurant in town.

It was the best night ever.

Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it?

~laughs~ No. The paparazzi would have a filed day with that one, if I did. And my publicist would crucify me.

Did you do have a good Thanksgiving? Anything monumental happen to you or in your family?

I did. We shared the holiday with my sister and her husband, Lacey’s parents, and mine. It was private and quiet—just how I like it.

Have you started your Christmas shopping or have it almost completed?

Oh, I’m done. With my schedule, I’m always buying throughout the whole year. ~leans in and lowers voice~ I bought the prettiest necklace in Paris for Lacey. I can’t wait to give it to her. And I might have found a ring...



About the Author :

Diane Alberts current contracted works with Entangled Publishing are: "ON ONE CONDITION" (February 2012, Ever After line), "DIVINELY RUINED" (Divine Temptations Trilogy #1, April 2012, Ever After line), and "TRY ME" (Take a Chance #1, May 2012, Ever After line). Her current works with Decadent Publishing are: "KILL ME TOMORROW" (October 2011, 1NightStand series), "RECLAIMED" (December 2011), "ABSOLUTION" (March 2012, Honor Guard series), "BROKEN" (March 2012, 1NightStand series), and "ESCAPE TO ME" (TBA, 1NightStand series).

Diane Alberts has always been a dreamer with a vivid imagination, but it wasn’t until 2011 that she put her pen where her brain was, and became a published author. Since receiving her first contract offer, she has yet to stop writing. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, and a Senegal parrot. In the rare moments when she’s not writing, she can usually be found hunched over one knitting project or another.

She is a multi-published, bestselling author with Entangled Publishing and Decadent Publishing. She has, as of this date, two books with Entangled Publishing, and five books with Decadent Publishing. Her February release with Entangled Publishing, "ON ONE CONDITION," hit #18 on the Barnes and Noble Bestseller List. She has a lot of projects currently being shopped around by her fabulous agent, and her goal is to write so many fantastic books that even a non-romance book fan will know her name. "CAPTIVATED BY YOU" is her first title from Swoon Romance, the first in a series.




- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 283 KB | Expected Release Date: November 6, 2012 | Publisher: Swoon Romance | Obtained: Swoon Romance

"Captivated By You" [Superstars in Love Series, Book 1] by Diane Alberts (aka Jen McLaughlin)

My Book Summary : Even though Mark is one of Hollywood latest heartthrobs nothing will keep him away from spending Christmas with his sister, even if that means dealing with a snowstorm during the time he planned to drive back to CA, much to his manager's disappointment. However, things seem to go from bad (he can't find a flight to take him back to CA) to worse (his car gets stuck in a ditch) up until he decides to seek shelter at the nearest home until a tow truck can pick him up and finds himself face-to-face with his longtime secret crush and old friend, Lacey. Quickly they both find that personal passions still spark for them, if only they can both believe they have a chance for something more once the morning arrives...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this sweet, world-win fantasy romance that keeps you on your toes while you are charmed by the characters! I enjoyed this short story. It gave enough background info to reel you in and make you root for Mark & Lacey.

I just wish it was longer or had an epilogue. If it did then I might have given it a better rating, since it just wasn't enough for me to fully fall in love with them yet I DID like the characters a lot.

I recommend this novella to anyone who likes reading about Hollywood romances!

My Previous Interview(s) with this Author : July 2012

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Try Me

Author's Novel Extras : COVER REVEAL! Check out CAPTIVATED BY YOU, coming soon from @swoonromance! | Captivated by You is out early! Get your Christmas on.

Author's Series Extras : New contract with Month9Books!

Book Teaser(s) :
“So, it’s not what you expected?” she asked, her voice quiet.
Mark looked up at her through his lashes, his eyes locked on her. “I enjoy my career. I enjoy acting. But ... sometimes I wish I had picked a different one.”
She shook her head. “Why would you want to give up your Hollywood lifestyle? You wear it well.”
“Well, maybe I wouldn’t give up everything.” He pushed the glass away and picked up the People Magazine. He stopped at a page where his picture was plastered across it. “See this? That day I was sick. Felt like shit and dragged my feverish ass out of bed to get my prescription filled.”
She leaned closer and looked at the picture. “You look happy to me. Of course, you’re wearing sunglasses so I can’t see your eyes, but you look content enough.”
“Yeah, because I have to look that way. If the paparazzi take a picture of me with a red nose and puffy eyes—next day they’ll be calling me a drug addict. Saying I was out all night partying and snorting lines of cocaine. Next thing you know, my publicist is making me enter rehab for exhaustion.”
“That sucks.” ~ within Chapter 2
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Diane, then please check out her website.



"Captivated By You" Holiday Shopping Contest! :

Open to owners of "Captivated By You" ONLY.

Contest starts on Monday 12th November. Any tweets/etc before this date won't be counted towards entries. But spread the word!

The holidays are coming, and Swoon Romance thinks you should get what you want! Each week between November 12 - December 24, Owners of "Captivated By You" could WIN either ...
  • A $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble Gift Card (winners choice) from Swoon Romance and Diane Alberts, author of the steamy holiday romance novella "Captivated By You!"

CLICK HERE - to find out how to win and SIGN UP!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out the "Hot Holidays" Twitter Chat that is scheduled for December 20, 9:00 pm EST, hosted by @swoonromance, and that will include authors such as Diane Alberts, Michelle Zink, Cora Carmack, Nicola Marsh, Carolina Jordan and Samantha Spencer!!



Find Diane Alberts :

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Impossible by Komal Lewis | Interview, Review, & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Komal Lewis, who I interviewed about her debut novel "Impossible," which is the 1st book in her With Me Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour will run from November 26 - December 16, 2012]



My Q&A with Komal Lewis :

Komal : Thank you so much for having me on your blog! I really appreciate you hosting me! :)

Jess : You're welcome!! I'm glad to have you here!! ... and something that is completely off topic ... Blue is my favorite color too!! *hehee*

Anyways ....

What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?

Komal : This is so hard for me to answer because there are too many to name. I am literally a book junkie. Between the ages of 5 – 11, I enjoyed the Chronicles of Narnia, "The Hobbit," the Rowan of Rin series, the Deltora Quest series, any books by Roald Dahl, A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Lord of the Rings, to name a few. Age 11 and onwards, I started reading all the classics. "Cat’s Cradle" by Kurt Vonnegut was my favourite during this period.

Jess : What sparked the idea for your With Me Series?

Komal : My husband and I ended up watching Drive Me Crazy one night and after it ended, I turned to him and said, “I want to write a book like that one day.” So, the very next day, I started writing and didn’t stop until I was done 4 weeks later!

Jess : Since I read that you are overly enthusiastic about comic books (and a bunch of other things) – if you could have a super power (or be a super hero/villian) what would it be (or who would you be) and why?

Komal : I would love to have the power to either teleport or become invisible. If I were a superhero, I would be Spiderman or Captain America, and if I were a villain I would be Loki.

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Komal : In "Falling for Hadie," readers will be introduced to Lincoln Bracks and his family. Now, Lincoln is as nice as they get, but his family is another story. I don’t think I would want Mrs. Bracks over for dinner because she would probably find something to complain about.

Jess : Please describe your hero, from "Impossible," in one to two sentences.

Komal : Ashton Summers is mean, spoilt, selfish and arrogant. Luca is a social outcast, caring, independent and isn’t afraid to be different.

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

Komal : It’s being dubbed the “kitchen counter scene” by readers. It’s a steamy make out scene between the two main characters. Readers 17+ only!

Jess : If "Impossible" were to be made into a film, who do you see playing the main characters and why?

Komal : I never thought about it while I was writing the book, but I have been asked this question a lot since the book came out. I picture Alex Pettyfer as Luca, because he has the right face, his hair is longish and unkempt, and I’m pretty sure he has green eyes. He would need a complete makeover though. His hair would have to be black/dark brown, he’d need lots of tattoos, and some black eyeliner too. As for Ashton, I picture someone like Teresa Palmer playing her.


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

Komal : My favourite secondary characters were probably Hadie, because she doesn’t care what other people think about her; Stacey, because she’s very strong-headed and opinionated; and Ashton’s mom, because she’s such a caring person. A lot of readers have told me that they like the character of Eddie, probably because he gives great advice.

Jess : When writing "Impossible" did you listen to a certain song list/playlist that you could share with us?

Komal : I actually drove my husband insane because I only listened to ONE song for two months: With Me by Sum 41. This entire song sums up Luca’s feelings for Ashton. I also listened to The Kill by 30 Seconds to Mars when I was writing the end of the story. This song perfectly describes how Ashton was feeling at Kendall’s party.




Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite (so far) and why?

Komal : I’ve written too many stories over the years to count. Probably somewhere between 50 – 100. As for published books, I only have one so far. My favourite story I’ve written so far is definitely my Serena Merchant series. My protagonist is a siren with amnesia and she is hilarious. The story is loosely based on Greek mythology and is such a fun read. I can’t wait until readers get to read it!

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

Komal : I’m currently working on the second book in the With Me series. It’s titled "Falling for Hadie" and will release in February, 2013. It basically follows the relationship between Lincoln Bracks (the new boy in town) and Hadie Swinton (who we met in "Impossible").

Here is a small teaser from "Falling for Hadie":
Taking her hand again, I smiled and her face brightened. “Are you saying you have a crush on me, Hades?”
Hadie rolled her eyes, but didn’t seem annoyed. “I’m saying that I might have more than a crush on you.”
Frowning, I stroked my chin with my free hand. “Well, this creates a bit of a problem.”
Hadie’s face fell and her eyes were somber as she drank me in. “What do you mean?”
Sighing, I tried to keep a straight face. “I mean that I don’t know what my wife’s going to think about me having a girlfriend.”
Hadie stared at me, her mouth hanging open as my words sunk in. My mouth twitched, and Hadie shot me a glare before she started hitting me all over my body.
Laughing, I grasped her by the arms and we fell back onto the long grass, rolling around on the damp ground for several seconds before Hadie managed to climb on top of me.

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

Komal : I love paperbacks, I really do, but e-books are so cheap and convenient. The other thing about e-books is that there are so many AMAZING self-published authors who have their books available via e-book only and I wouldn’t have discovered them if I hadn’t given e-books a chance.

Jess : Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?

Komal : I am a huge clean freak so, yes, the bed gets made every morning without fail.

Jess : If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Komal : "The weird and wacky life of the OCD bookworm with too many pets."

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

Komal : • "Easy" by Tammara Webber – If you haven’t read this book, what are you waiting for? This is one of the best books I’ve read all year! Trust me, you will love it!
• "The Edge of Never" by J. A. Redmerski – This book was so beautifully written, the characters were great, and the plot was absorbing. I’m pretty sure it’s my favourite book of the year.
• "Fallen Crest High" by Ti Jan – Ti Jan didn’t hold back with this book. We get a gritty, realistic look into the characters’ lives and I didn’t want to leave. Well-written and such a great read!



About the Author :

Komal Lewis is an author who writes both Young Adult and Adult novels in the Contemporary and Fantasy genres. Her debut novel "IMPOSSIBLE" is a Young Adult Contemporary Romance about a girl who will do anything to become popular, and the rocker boy-next-door.

Komal lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband and one too many dogs and cats (although she never seems to think they have enough). She is overly enthusiastic about video games, comic books, Batman films, Byronic heroes, baking, reptiles, and pretty shoes.




- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 254; Kindle Edition - File Size: 478 KB | Expected Release Date: October 25, 2012 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Romantic Maidens Book Tours

"Impossible" [With Me Series, Book 1] by Komal Lewis

My Book Summary : Ashton had it all--she was popular, recently became the head cheerleader of her squad, and a family that loves her--except for one thing, she wasn't dating Oliver--the quarterback of the football team--who she has had a crush on for a long time. That is until her supposed best friend Kance took it all away from her--her reputation, their friendship, being the head cheerleader, and Oliver--because she was jealous of Ashton. Therefore, Ashton sets out to get back her popular status any way she can ... even if that means becoming friends, again, with her old childhood best friend who is also her rock band next-door-neighbor, Luca.

Luca would like nothing to do with Ashton, especially now that she has changed into a stuck-up snob instead of the sweet girl she used to be. However, he still cares about her, even though at times he'd like not to, so he agrees to help her out by becoming her fake boyfriend.

As Ashton and Luca because of their forced proximity to each other, they become closer then they have in years while working through the reasons why their friendship dissolved in the first place. Slowly they become friends again and find parts of themselves would like to have a whole lot more. But are they willing to forgive each other for their past mistakes and when their agreement works out to the conclusion that Ashton wants--getting her popularity back--will their newfound relationship fizzle out? Especially when some of Ashton's other friends, have agendas of their own...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! This is an intense and highly dramatic novel; about two "ex" friends working together and finding there is a lot more going on between them then they ever thought before! I loved Luca, as he seemed so sweet and dynamic that it was fun reading from his point-of-view. Plus, some of the secondary characters in this novel were enjoyable too. I especially liked Luca's best friends, Eddie & Riley, and Ashton's cheerleader friends, Kendall and Yuki!

However, as much as I tried, I did not like Ashton. I enjoyed her and Luca together since they are very much connected and it was touching to see them together while working through their issues. Nevertheless, I could not stand how much Ashton used Luca throughout most of the novel and how wishy-washy she was when it came to her feelings with him. Plus, how naive she was when it came to some of the friends she chose to have.

I was shaken my head at some of the stuff she did most of the way through.

With that being said, I still recommend everyone who likes contemporary YA romance novels to give this novel a try.

It was a good start for this series, and I'm curious what, "Falling for Hadie," book 2 of this series will bring!

Author's Novel Extras : Impossible - Teaser #1 | Impossible - Teaser #2 | Impossible - Teaser #3 | Impossible - Teaser #4 | Impossible - Teaser #5 from Ashton's POV | The Best Thing About Having Critique Partners | Cover Reveal: Impossible | Cover Reveal for Impossible! | Interview with Komal Lewis & a Giveaway! | Review for Impossible by Komal Lewis | Character Interview with Luca and Ashton | My expectations for Impossible | Excerpt of Impossible | Let's talk Ashton and "mean girls" | I'm thankful for...

Author's Series Extras : Transitioning period | With Me Stats | An Update on...Everything! | The past week in links! | What comes next

Book Teaser(s) :
He raised a cup to his lips and made a face at whatever the contents were.
“Coffee?” I asked, catching Ben’s eye.
Matthew Sutton elbowed him in the ribs and laughed. “Yeah, he’s trying to be all mature and sophisticated to impress some girl.”
Ben elbowed him back. “She’s not some girl. Her name’s Hadie.”
Hadie. The name tickled a faint memory in my mind. Hadie didn’t run in our circle, but I knew her from sight. She’d been in my art class in sophomore year and seemed like a nice girl. Ben deserved nothing less.
I laughed and gave Bennett a pout. “Aw, and here I thought we had something going on.”
Bennett grinned and pulled me onto his lap. “Of course we do, Ash. I’d never betray you like that.”
I noticed Oliver paying extra close attention to us, and couldn’t help feeling smug. Everyone knew that Bennett and I were just good friends and always joked around about dating. ~ within Chapter 5
When I walked into detention, I had to walk back out just to make sure I was in the right room, even though I’d been here so many times over the years it was like a second home for me. Stunned, I stared at the table in the second row that was closest to the wall.
What was wrong with this picture?
Well, for starters, I was pretty sure Ashton was sitting in detention. Either that or I was hallucinating. ~ within Chapter 11
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Komal, then please check out her website.



Giveaways!! :
  • An paperback copy of "Impossible" to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
  • An Kindle e-book copy of "Impossible" to ten randomly drawn people from Rafflecopter
The Fine Print -- To Enter :
  1. This contest ends on December 16th 2012.
  2. This contest is International!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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



Find Komal Lewis :

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Feasted On: Ritter Werewolves Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 238 KB | Release Date: March 2012 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Before the Moon Rises" [Ritter Werewolves Series, Book 1] by Catherine Bybee

My Book Summary : Towards the end of her night shift Janet--a nurse at the county hospital--deals with her last unconscious patient, Max, of the night only to have him wake up on her in the middle of his exam and have her world completely change when he asks her out for breakfast. Against her better judgment, Janet agrees to bring him home so he can change, into some clothes of his own, before they head out to eat. Once at his place she finds there is more to him than meets the eye, especially after a little later on in the day when he agrees to protect her from whoever broke into her home...

However, Max has a big secret he's keeping--he's a werewolf. And after meeting her at the hospital, he knows there is something special about her that draws him to her. Yet when he finds that his enemy has targeted Janet to be his next victim, Max decides to protect her by any means necessary. Now if he can just keep his secret while they get to know each other everything might be okay...

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! This is a story about an unusual meeting and beginning of a romance between two soul mates. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Max and Janet. They were a fun, speed-loving couple.

The only things I'm curious about are what happened to them once the story ended (meaning I wish there was an epilogue) and how did Max get all of his money? Was his family rich? It's a question that's been plaguing me ever since I finished the novella.

I recommend this novella to anyone who likes paranormal and werewolf romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Hurry up and wait | Happy Day! | Before the Moon Rises has a cover | What Readers & Reviewers Are Saying | Coffee Time Reviewed Before the Moon Rises | ~3rd Place~ | E-Author Spotlight: Catherine Bybee | 2 - Day's of Shifters Party Time | Toot! Toot!!! | Six Sentence Sunday | Your Budget, My Books

Author's Series Extras : Release Day! | Angry Cathy! | New Cover Art! | Reviews for Embracing the Wolf | Shifter Tour Continues PARTY | The Joy of a Back List! | News and Updates | OMG... Look at this lovely cover art! | Werewolves or Vampires?

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :
“So, Janet, what movie should we watch?”
Janet followed him into the den, completely at home with her personal bodyguard. She turned her attention to the movie selections. They were entirely male. Not one ‘chick flick’ to be found. Picking something at random, she handed it to Richard.
He checked the title and starting laughing.
“What is it?”
“Oh, man. You have no idea.” He kept up the chuckles and fired up the DVD. “I’ll get the popcorn.”
Richard left the room, laughing hysterically.
Janet tucked her feet under her and removed the throw from the back of the couch. The opening credits of “An American Werewolf in London” hit the screen.
Richard returned five minutes later, though the telltale smell of popcorn hit her senses first. “I hope you added extra butter.”
“A woman after my own heart,” he said before plopping down the bowl of popcorn.
A yelp behind the couch had Janet tense into a rigid sit. ~ within Chapter 4
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Catherine, then please check out her website.

Friday, December 7, 2012

Disappointmentville: Shifting Bonds Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 241 KB | Release Date: August 2009 | Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Bonded By Need" [Shifting Bonds Series, Book 1] by Nina Pierce

My Book Summary : Jayda is a polymorphic shifter female meaning she can shift into both a wolf and a cougar. Yet she has only recently accepted who she truly is with the help of Cole, her mate and the leader of the wolf council, who initiated her first shift into her wolf form. Because of how her cougar-self feels a bit dormant, they thought it would take a couple of years for it to emerge. That is until recently not long before Jayda meets Zane, the leader of the cougar council, who stirs the cougar inside of her wanting to come out. Now the three are faced with a decision they never expected to face ... will Jayda have to choose between them or can they find a way to appease them all? Especially before another incident comes a long to rip them all apart...

My Book Review : 2 out of 5 stars. Discover the transformation Jayda goes through once she becomes her true self while trying to listen to her heart.

I had high hopes for this novella, probably to high of hopes, but it wasn't as good as I hoped. Basically, I wished it was more like "Trinity" or something along the lines of "Silver Mine"--which in some ways they were both similar to it--but in most ways it wasn't. Mostly I was disappointed with how argumentative the guys were and how long it took them to reluctantly agree with the set up that Jayda wanted.

Therefore, I only recommend this novel to those who are fans of Ms. Pierce.

Author's Novel Extras : Mark Your Calendar! | Announcing a New Arrival! | A Selected Bonding | Reviewing the Week | Look Who Stopped by to Chat! | Sqeeeee For the Week | A Month of Sundays | Sexy Six for Sunday 3/25 | It’s Hot in Here Six 8/12 | A Six Sunday Need 10/14

Author's Series Extras : Trading Cards | Within Mima! | And Just a Little Update | This Week at Nina's Place | Cover Lusciousness! | Don't Hate the Edits | Don't Hate the Edits | It's Release Day! | Shifting into Thursday | An Autumn Review ... | A Soulful Sunday Six | Don’t Stop Sizzling Six! 7/1 | A Mating Sunday Six 10/21

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :
“Let’s just get out of here. You can take me back to the clinic and you and your cougars can come back and find the kits.”
The kits. He’d forgotten all about them. Zane went down on one knee and purred low in invitation. They popped out of the small crevice one at a time.
Jayda cooed. “Oh, you found them!”
“No, Jayda, you found them.” He picked one up by the scruff of the neck and smiled. “Not that I’d recommend this method again, but we have them.” Zane looked up the wall. “Now we just have to figure out how to get everyone back up to the truck.”
“Well, how did you get down here?” Jayda looked up, shading her eyes against the noonday sun. “I’m not sure I can climb.”
“I came down in cougar form. But I came in from that direction.” He turned and looked at the slope, trying to work out a solution. “I could carry you on my back.”
She didn’t respond. He turned to see her appraising him and his cock immediately stirred under her probing gaze. Embarrassed, he bent and let the kit join his sibling. “Stupid idea. Why don’t we both shift and we can each carry a kit in our mouths.” He shot her a look over his shoulder. “Do you feel well enough to shift?”
Her face flushed. “Yeah, but...” ~ within Chapter 3
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Nina, then please check out her website.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Giveaway Winners from my Small Business Saturday/Week Contests



Lacey T., Heather C. from Books Books and more Books, Becca F., Pati, Kamla L., Debi M., Kelly S., & Melissa M.!!!

Congratulations ....

Lacey T. -- You just won a hardcover copy of "I've Got Your Number" by Sophie Kinsella!!

Heather C. -- You just won a hardcover copy of "A Merry Little Christmas" by Anita Higman, a paperback copy of "Barefoot Season" [Blackberry Island Series, Book 1] by Susan Mallery, a paperback copy of "Until There Was You" by Kristan Higgins, your choice between an e-book copy of Kristine Cayne's "Deadly Obsession" [Deadly Vices Series, Book 1] OR "Deadly Addiction" [Deadly Vices Series, Book 2], and a Kindle e-book copy of "Face The Music" by Andrea K. Robbins!!

Becca F. -- You just won a paperback copy of "Darkfever" [Fever Series, Book 1] by Karen Marie Moning!!

Pati -- You just won a paperback copy of "The Incorrigible Playboy" [The Legendary FINN BROTHERS, Book 1] by Emma Darcy, a paperback copy of "Fiancée for One Night" [21st Century Bosses Series, Book 1] by Trish Morey, and a Kindle e-book copy of "Face The Music" by Andrea K. Robbins!!

Kamla L. -- You just won a paperback copy of "Lord of the Wolfyn" [Royal House of Shadows Series, Book 3] by Jessica Andersen!!

Debi M. -- You just won your choice between an e-book copy of Kristine Cayne's "Deadly Obsession" [Deadly Vices Series, Book 1] OR "Deadly Addiction" [Deadly Vices Series, Book 2], a Kindle e-book copy of "Face The Music" by Andrea K. Robbins, a e-book copy of "The Booby Trap" by Anne Browning Walker, "The North Poe" Christmas Cards from Jenna Bennett, and a hardcover copy of "Savage Worlds" by Michael Matthews Bingamon!!

Kelly S. -- You just won a Kindle e-book copy of "Face The Music" by Andrea K. Robbins and "The North Poe" Christmas Cards from Jenna Bennett!!

Melissa M. -- You just won a Kindle e-book copy of "Face The Music" by Andrea K. Robbins!!

All of you should be receiving an email from me soon, please respond to that email within 48 hours to confirm your prize!

Thank you to everyone who participated in this giveaway and checked out the adjoining guest posts by Jenna Bennett and Michael Matthews Bingamon!! Please keep up-to-date with my blog tours & giveaways by checking out my event calendar so you'll know when you really want to stop by From Me to You.... Or you could just friend/follow the blog too!! *BIG GRIN*

What are you all reading lately??

Me? I just finished reading "Impossible" [With Me Series, Book 1] by Komal Lewis last night -- it was good but not as good as I hoped. Anyway ... be sure to check out my full review/giveaway/interview for this novel on Sunday, December 9th!

I hope everyone is having or will have a good day today!

Best regards, Jess

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Feasted On: The Highland Hearts Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 389; Kindle Edition - File Size: 457 KB | Expected Release Date: September 11, 2012 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Select | Obtained: NetGalley

"Captured Heart" [The Highland Hearts Series, Book 1] by Heather McCollum

My Book Summary : As a way to save his clan and end a century-old feud between a neighboring clan Caden, chief of Clan Macbain, plans on getting into England to capture Meg, the niece of--Rachel and Alec--the neighboring clan's chief, and keep her as a prisoner in hopes that he can bargain her to keep the peace between the clans. However, not long after he and his warriors cross the border into England they are ambushed. Towards the end of their fight, Caden finds an enchanting woman who stumbled into the middle of the battle.

The woman just happens to be Meg who was running away from her father in England to go stay with her aunt and uncle in Scotland, because she's afraid that her father will accuse her of witchcraft and murder her like he did her mother years ago. Thinking that Caden and his men are helping to escort her to her aunt and uncle safely Meg accepts their help.

Once Caden and Meg arrive at his castle, Caden makes Meg believe that she is his guest until he is able to deal with Alec and get him to agree to Caden's terms. Nevertheless, no matter how hard he tries to stop it Caden is inevitably drawn to Meg and it grows profoundly stronger throughout the time that they spend together. Even so while Meg waits it out in Caden's castle incidents happen that test his clan's belief on whether Meg is a witch or not and whether she is good or not, making some want to get rid of Meg by any means possible. When the time comes when Caden will have to choose between protecting/keeping Meg over his clan, what will he choose? Is one woman really more important than his whole clan is? Especially when Meg’s father still could bring all of England down on them on top of everything else...

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! If it's not one thing it's another when it comes to this novel--love, battles, secrets, treachery, special powers--it has it all! I loved the intrigue that surrounds this novel, especially when it comes to Meg future and whom she can trust. While, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Meg and Caden's relationship--how it grew and what they had to overcome together. Plus, the warrior's (at least most of the men) in Caden's clan were funny so I can't wait to see what book 2 in this series will bring!!

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes historical romances that have a little bit of paranormal in them too.

Author's Novel Extras : Captured Heart : Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :
“May I present yer niece, Munro,” Caden said and guided Meg to his side.
“I am pleased to meet you, Uncle Alec,” she said in Gaelic.
A small bit of bluster melted out of the man. “We will take our niece home, too, then, or are ye still trying to hold the lass as a hostage?” he said in English. Meg noticed that he watched her for a reaction. He didn’t get one.
“She isn’t a captive, but she is staying,” Caden said evenly. “She is my wife now, which would make us...kin.”
The whole room of Macbains held their breaths as the words sunk in. Meg’s dizziness began to return but once she remembered to breathe, the world righted itself.
Kin,” Alec spat. “I am yer sworn enemy, Macbain. I will never call ye kin.”
“Husband,” Rachel said, her hand on his arm. “Meg and Caden have married. Their children will have my blood in their veins. By your honor, you must call a peace between our two families.”
“Peace?” Alec growled.
“Which would include the return of our herds,” Kenneth interjected.
Alec spit on the rushes at his feet. Not a good sign. “Priest!” he yelled. “There must be a bloody priest around here to annul this ridiculous union.”
“No priest here now,” Bruce said. “And they’ve consummated the marriage.”
“I can attest to the bed sheets,” Ann threw in.
Meg nearly stepped into the fire. Instead of suicide she shut her eyes.
“And they didn’t rise until late in the morning,” Evelyn called from across the hall.
Heat splashed across Meg’s face like someone had thrown hot soup on her. She took a step closer to the hearth. Maybe if the edge of her gown caught on fire, there would be so much chaos no one would notice her death by humiliation.
Everyone started talking at once, with Uncle Alec yelling Gaelic curse words in random eruptions of rage. ~ within Chapter 10
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Heather, then please check out her website.
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