The Crux Blog Tour

Welcome to my stop on the Crux Blog Tour brought to you by J Taylor Publishing. I have an awesome guest post for you from the author along with 2 awesome giveaways.

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Book: Crux
Author: Julie Reece
Published: July 9,2012
Publisher: J Taylor Publishing
Pages:285
ISBN:9781937744069

Goodreads Blurb:



She should have run. Now, she’ll have to fight.

Eighteen year old Birdie may be homeless, but she’s surviving, that is until a mysterious guy throws money in the air like a crazy game show host, and she grabs some with the idea she’ll be able to buy dinner that night.

In that singular moment, unassuming Birdie becomes the girl in everyone’s viewfinder. Thugs want to kill her. Money-guy wants to recruit her. The very hot, very rich, and very out of her league Grey Mathews wants to save her.

Birdie, though, wants nothing to do with any of them, until she realizes fate didn’t bring them all together.

Her heritage did.

Now, with only twenty-one days left, she’s got to decide whether to follow in the footsteps of those before her or risk her life for people she’s only just met.



And now I am turning it over to Julie for her awesome guest post.

Hi Everyone!

Thanks so much for having me here today J

There’s something on my mind.

Research. Authors have mixed feelings on the subject. Those studious types who love history and thrive on sticking their noses in dusty volumes ferreting out delicious facts to incorporate into their novels are anal  nerds  overachievers wise. Others wing it, the lax  naïve  optimistic free-spirited-type writers who assume their amazing imaginations and prose compensate for any lack of academic conformation of detail. (I just made that last bit up, but thought it sounded scholarly. No? Just go with it.)

Lest you think I’m picking on anyone, let me just state, I have been both these people (and more).

Let’s face it, most readers don’t care to be bored to tears with superfluous information in their action packed urban fantasies, but they definitely feel the difference when details are skimmed over or neglected.

I’ve heard readers complain and reviewers positively shred an author who didn’t have their facts straight. For instance, the Red Wolf wasn’t reintroduced to the North Carolina woodlands until 1987. So what? Say an author writes herself a werewolf paranormal where the pack ran wild in 1975. She thinks no one would know or care when the dang wolves showed up (this is fantasy, darn it, suck it up). Trouble is, the naturalist who stays up nights reading paranormal romance knows, so does the woman who bought a special license plate for her car with proceeds supporting—you guessed it—the Red Wolf.

Busted.

So I advocate the middle ground (much as my free-spirited nature groans at the idea). That was the advice given to me by a writer friend and I bow to her Yoda. She said, “Do your research, but for nuance, not for college level history 101. You want the writing rich and full without bogging the story down.” I get it, now. Thanks, friend.

Okay … below are a few trivia research facts I did for my YA book Crux. I thought readers of the book might find…zzzzz…What? Oh, interesting. Right! Here we go:

1.      The battle of Gunnarr Blot was based (very loosely) on The Battle of Stamford Bridge.

Epic, right?

2. Though Crux was written with no ‘agenda’, Birdies and Shondra’s story is, in part, a cautionary tale, raising awareness with a nod to the work http://nightlightinternational.com/about/unitedstates/atlanta/ does for the youth caught in human trafficking. Though there are many others in Atlanta working to help the plight of all homeless and those in need.

3. King Thorolf Graylock, also affectionately referred to as, ‘Jeff’, was patterned (again very loosely) after Harald "Bluetooth" Gormsson , who won the whole of Denmark and Norway and turned the Danes to Christianity.

Here’s old Bluetooth getting baptized. And yeah, it’s Bluetooth, like what your dad keeps in his ear! LOL

All right, so there you have it. Despite all my whining, I guess the research part was pretty interesting. It’s better when you study because you want to than because your teacher is making you. Funny how that works, right? As I look back on school now, though, I wish I would have paid more attention in history. These old dead guys had a lot more interesting lives that I ever gave them credit for. J

Thanks again for having me today, and listening to my ramblings.

About the Author:

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Born in Ohio, I lived next to my grandfather’s horse farm until the fourth grade. Summers were about riding, fishing and make-believe, while winter brought sledding and ice-skating on frozen ponds. Most of life was magical, but not all.

I struggled with multiple learning disabilities, did not excel in school. I spent much of my time looking out windows and daydreaming. In the fourth grade (with the help of one very nice teacher) I fought dyslexia for my right to read, like a prince fights a dragon in order to free the princess locked in a tower, and I won.

Afterwards, I read like a fiend. I invented stories where I could be the princess... or a gifted heroine from another world who kicked bad guy butt to win the heart of a charismatic hero. Who wouldn't want to be a part of that? Later, I moved to Florida where I continued to fantasize about superpowers and monsters, fabricating stories (my mother called it lying) and sharing them with my friends.

Then I thought I’d write one down…

Hooked, I’ve been writing ever since. I write historical, contemporary, urban fantasy, adventure, and young adult romances. I love strong heroines, sweeping tales of mystery and epic adventure… which must include a really hot guy. My writing is proof you can work hard to overcome any obstacle. Don’t give up. I say, if you write, write on!

Make sure you enter the giveaway below. J Taylor Publishing is giving away one e-book copy of Crux and the lovely Julie is giving away a water bottle and signed bookmarks.

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The Lust Garden Blog Tour & Giveaway

The Lust Garden

With her perfectly tousled blonde hair and pink, pouty lips, Gianna Salvani is the girl everyone loves to hate. She has it all - fame, fortuneand unrivaled beauty. But behind the seductive smile is an insecure girl who still grieves for the father she lost years ago. With a controversial new film in the can, and the release of her debut album looming, Gianna ispoised to take center stage. But when a shocking secret leaves her exposed, her fame will bring her face-to-face with a nightmare she never saw coming. Because lurking in the shadow of her spotlight is an obsessed killer with plans of his own for Gianna. Ignited by his first conquest, Gianna's greatest admirer begins a brutal hunt to claim her as the ultimate trophy in a string of look-alike murders. Motivated by envy, he forces himself into her seemingly untainted world and threatens to ruin everything she's built by revealing a hidden tie that binds them. And if you knew his secret, you'd want to kill her too   Kindle / Paperback Billy Jolie graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in Mass Communications. He lives in the Tampa Bay area. Follow him on Facebook / Twitter / Blog / Goodreads   Follow the TourPromotional Book Tours and Billy Jolie are giving away a $50 Amazon Gc and 5 autographed copies! a Rafflecopter giveaway Brought to you by http://Promotionalbooktours.com

Circus Summer Blog Tour

Welcome to my stop on the Circus Summer Blog Tour brought to you by the awesome SupaGirl Tours. I have a review for you to check out along with a giveaway. You also have the chance to win a $100 Amazon Giftcard by looking within the pages of the Kindle editions of the book. So make sure you pick up a copy because you may be in for a treat. Also if you purchase a copy of the book please send a copy of the receipt to info(at) theEDGEbooks(dot)com) with a comment in the body that says who and which blog they heard about the book from, the host with the most buzz wins a $75 Amazon Gift Card.

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Book: Circus Summer

Author: Kalin Gow

Published: June 5,2012

Publisher: TheEdgeBooks

Series: Book 1 in Circus of Curiosties Series

Pages: 244

ISBN:1597480355

Format: Print

Source: Supa Girl Tours and Author for Blog Tour

My Rating: 4 Stars



Book Blurb:

Circus Summer (Circus of Curiosities Book #1) by Kailin Gow is a YA Dystopian Fantasy -

Releases July 2, 2012

In post-apocalypse America, every season, the Circus of Curiosities visits the city, bringing with it the most fantastic circus acts that are beautiful, majestic, curious, and death-defying. Every season performers for these acts are chosen from the young men and women in each town, trained, and sent to perform in a live grand performance, performed literally to the death. Two performers from Sea Cliff, a beach town at the outskirts of The Center find themselves chosen to be in this Summer's Circus Act. Both must win at any cost, but could they ignore their feelings for each other? Leela Sinclair needs to win in order to get to The Center where she can get medical help from the best physicians for her ailing mother, plague with a condition no one have heard of. For Zachary Nile, his reasons for becoming a performer at the Circus is more mysterious.  Only the ringmaster and the Circus of Curiosities owner Dex Hightower (Dr. Dex) knows what the touring Circus is really about amidst the magic and splendor.  Despite the Great War and the poverty surrounding the land except for the towns fortunate enough to be near the Center, Dr. Dex and the Circus performers all know, "The show must go on."

My Review:

This book starts out with us meeting Leela. Her outlook on life at the moment is pretty bleak as she is dealing with school, a sick mom, and having to work to provide for them. She doesn't realize how much her life is about to change. Leela weas a really strong,hardworking character. She had a lot on her shoulders but didn't let it get her down.

Leela is at work one day and she hears some sounds that will change everything. The sounds she hears are the Circus coming through town. The Circus of Curosities is nothing like an ordinary circus. There are so many aspects of it from the daily challenges that the performers must face to having to face off aganist each other to get through to the next round. Leela signs up for the Circus along with Zach.

Where do I begin with Zach and Thomas. I loved them both for different reasons. Thomas was the safe guy who has always been there for Leela and truly knew her. He would do anything for her. Zach had such chemistry with Leela and made me want to see them happy. He also knew more about Leela than she knew about herself.

The Circus's ringleader Dr Dex was also an interesting character. He was so mysterious and aloof but I could tell there was more to him. He was amazing at running the Circus and picking the performers for it. As Leela gets more involved in the Circus she learns some shocking things. Will Leela make it through the Circus? Will she get to be with Thomas or Zach? You will defintely want to read this book to find out.

Overall I loved every aspect of this book. This book reminded me of the Night Circus. The characters the author created were so in depth it made you feel for them. I fell in love with all of them for different reasons. The world building with the Circus descriptions were out of this world. The author knows how to weave a story. I highly recommend this book to all readers. You will truly be in for a treat.

About the Author:

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Blog

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Goodreads

Kailin Gow is the author of over 100 books, with the majority of them for young adults. Her most popular series are:  The Frost Series, PULSE Series, Desire Series, Wicked Woods, Steampunk Scarlett Novels, and more.  A full-time author, she is also a producer, having worked in radio, television, and film.  She grew up in Southern California, lived in Texas and England, and had traveled extensively around the world.

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Don't Tell Cover Reveal and Giveaway

Hi readers I have another awesome cover reveal for you to check out today. The author is also giving away an e-copy of the book to one winner so make sure you enter.

Blurb:

I could be surrounded by a million people, but I would still feel alone. I smile on the outside, but inside I feel like I’m slowly dying. I cry out for help, but nobody sees me, at least not the real me. They see a façade, a mask that I put on to hide the pain.

I pretend that I’m normal, but really, what is normal? Maybe what I’m feeling is normal. The hurt, the disappointment, the loneliness… it could be all just be a part of life. Maybe I will never know what normal is.

I put on long sleeves and makeup to hide the bruises, but they only mask the outside. What happens when I can’t carry my burden alone any longer? What would happen if I told somebody the truth?

Don't Tell is a YA Contemporary Romance about love, forgivness and hope.  Coming Fall 2012.

How to reach author:

Blog: http://mercyamare.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MercyAmare

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mercy-Amare/466953106650292

Mercy Amare writes YA fiction books. She has a slight addiction to NOS, and her guilty pleasure is Pretty Little Liars.

 

So tell me what you think of the cover. I love it and think it's simply stunning.

 

 

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Free Book Fridays Giveaway

So What is Free Book Friday?!

Every Friday we along with a few other sites we will hold a Free Book Giveaway.

All you have to do to win is follow. 

 Ebooks will be in ALL formats so don't worry. 

 If you win we will make sure you get a format you can use.  

We will also be giving away free print books. 

Print books will be new and used

I will also be adding ARC's which are Advanced Reading Copies. 

So you will get the book before anyone else. 

THANK THE SPONSORES!

I would like to take this time to let you know that this ongoing giveaway if sponsored by Crossroads.
The Hollow Tours and The Hollow Readers have both been sold and have become Crossroads!

 So we got a new look, content, and prices! So again this is a wonderful way to get your info out there.  With tour stops both personal and from authors you can get more followers and all you have to do is read a book.  

So please thank The Crossroads for their time and money as they Sponsor Free Book Fridays!

Ok so what is next!  

Join US!

If you want to join our giveaway you can do that to!  You may click the link and add your site.
It will cost $3.00 per link (includes twitter, Facebook, and Site links)  

Your link will run with us for 6 months. After which time you may repurchase time. 

If you would like to run it for 1 year please double the cost.
All books giveaway are included. 

We are going to have a limited number of links available so get your spot now!
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Donate!

If you would like to help us! You can do that as well.  You don't even need a site. You may donate in two ways. The first one is by mailing us a book in print or emailing a book in ebook. 

To submit a donated book click here!

To donate money to our giveaways to be used to purchase books from Amazon.com please send an email gift card with the subject or message (Free Book Fridays Donation) to witchever82@gmail.com

Either of these will get you either a free link or we will list you as a sponsor on this page.
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Authors
Are you an author?  Well we have a deal for you!  If you donate 3 print books or 3 ebooks gifted via Amazon/Nook we will give you 1 link for free for 1 year. 

If you want to donate or if you are an author please contact me at Jessica@crossroadreviews.com Subject: Free Book Fridays.

Dark Kiss Review

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Book: Dark Kiss
Author: Michelle Rowen
Published: May 29th,2012
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: 348
Format:E- Book
Series: Book 1 in Nightwatchers Series
ISBN:0373210477
Source: Publisher via Netgalley
My Rating: 4 Stars

Goodreads Blurb:

I don't do dangerous.  Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha-that's me. But I just couldn't pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It's like part of me is missing-and I don't know if I can get it back.

Then there's Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he's keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he's what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me.... 

My Review:

We start this book out by meeting Bishop who is cast from Heaven for a secret mission. At another location we are also introduced to Samantha who is finally being noticed by her crush. She soon learns that everything is not what it seems and once kiss may change life as she knows it. After the kiss Samantha notices that she is has a weird craving that she can't seem to sedate. She is walking home and meets Bishop and this is when things get interesting.

She soon learns that Bishop is an angel sent to try to stop the evil that is threatening to take over Trinity,NY. He is looking for some others to help him but he can't seem to find them. We soon learn that Samantha can see the lights and can find them. I liked Samantha as a character because she wasn't a pushover and stuck up for herself. She could manage to hold her own and took all that was going on around her in stride. I liked the chemistry between her and Bishop and am excited to see where their story goes. The next person that is found is a demon named Kraven. Kraven had the whole bad boy vibe going for him and I would love to find out more about him. The rest of the team is assembled and they start trying to end the evil.

We learn more about who Samantha really is and she has to come to terms with so major revelations. I loved the take on demons and angels that Rowan spun. The tale was a different one and made you really question what team you would side with. I loved all the interactions between Bishop and Kraven because they had such a love hate relationship. They had some funny moments with all of Kraven's snarkiness. He was just so lovable and I hate that he wasn't more of a major character as he was one of my favorites.  We learn the evil is in the form of Natalie who Samantha learns something major about. The epic battle is started between good and evil and you have to read this book to find out who comes out on top.

I loved all aspects of this book. There was suspense,romance, and an epic battle. The world building was awesome and so in depth. I loved this book from start to finish and was sucked into the world through Samantha's eyes. I felt what she felt and ached when she ached. The writing was on point and the character development was well written. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of angel and demon stories.

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on Wednesday is brought you by Jill at Breaking the Spine. It's a chance to showcase what books we are waiting on.

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Goodreads Blurb:

Kit Colbana—half breed, assassin, thief, jack of all trades—has a new job: track down the missing ward of one of the local alpha shapeshifters. It should be a piece of cake.

So why is she so nervous? It probably has something to do with the insanity that happens when you deal with shifters—especially sexy ones who come bearing promises of easy jobs and easier money.

Or maybe it’s all the other missing kids that Kit discovers while working the case, or the way her gut keeps screaming she’s gotten in over her head. Or maybe it’s because if she fails—she’s dead.

If she can stay just one step ahead, she should be okay. Maybe she’ll even live long to collect her fee..

This book is set to be released August 1,2012.

What are you waiting on this week?



Obsidian Trailer

So for those of you that don't know I am a huge Jennifer L Armentrout book lover. I am sharing the book trailer for Obsidian which is amazing. I loved everything about this trailer and am sharing it with you. If you haven't seen it yet check it out below.

So who didn't love that trailer. It has everything to love in it with the best thing being the hot Daemon Black. I hope you liked this trailer and make sure you check out all the books by this wonderful author.

Taming the Wolf Blog Tour & Giveaway

Taming the Wolf

Attacked by a wolf while hiking in the mountains, Anna Avery's life just got a little hairier. Living in the Big Horn mountains in Wyoming, with a group of werewolves who are more animal than human, Anna must try to hold onto her human side. It's not easy when the alpha continues to persuade her into his bed, while another wolf is chomping at the bit to become her mate. To top it all off, dead bodies are showing up and it just so happens that Anna was the last to see them alive. She'll have to work to prove her innocence and taming the wolf who bites first and asks questions never. This book is not intended for readers under 18. Purchase from Amazon and Barnes & Noble Follow the Tour -   Enter the contest - Fill out the form below a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Preservation Blog Tour

Welcome to my stop on the Preservation Blog Tour brought to you by Bewitching Book Tours. I have a review and excerpt from the book for you to check out for my stop.

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Book: Preservation

Author:Rachael Wade

Published: May 25,2012

Publisher: Rabbit Hole Press

Pages: 217

ISBN:9780984020836

Format: E-Book

Source: Bewitching Book Tours for Blog Tour

My Rating: 4 Stars

Goodreads Blurb:



Fear is sabotage’s sweetest weapon.

Kate has no time for meaningless romantic charades, and definitely no time for hot college professors who are full of themselves and smitten with her. Constantly battling eviction notices, tuition she can’t afford, and a sick, dependent mother, the last thing she needs is to be distracted with someone else’s complicated baggage. 

When she stumbles into Ryan Campbell’s creative writing class, he is only “Mr. Campbell” to her, until Ryan finds himself captivated by her writing and she is forced to face their mutual attraction. His cocky know-it-all syndrome is enough to send her running in the other direction, and his posse of female admirers and playboy reputation are enough to squander any odds in her favor. 

But underneath Ryan’s abrasive facade is something to behold, and she can’t stay away for long. Ryan and Kate must decide who they’re willing to become and fight against their former selves if they want to make things work. That’s if academia, vicious vixens, old skeletons, and their own mastery at self-destruction don’t pummel their efforts first.

My Review:

OK first off the cover for this book was phenomenal. It was plain but yet spoke volumes. I loved the image of the woman holding the apple. The image of the woman was so pretty. I was so happy to read this book as I love Rachael Wade's books. She is just awesome and such a great writer.

We meet Kate in this book. Kate is just your average woman trying to live her life. She works,supports her sick mom, and is taking college classes. We also meet Ryan who has his world crash down around him in the blink of an eye. Kate and Ryan meet each other when she stumbles into his writing class. I loved the banter between them instantly and could feel the chemistry between them.

I loved the character of Kate. She was strong and worked hard. I loved Kate's friends Carter and Dean too. They were hilarious and made sure that Kate had fun and they also cared a great deal about her. They were truly amazing friends. I loved all that they did to push Kate also with her writing. Things start to heat up between Kate and Ryan like i expected.

Kate and Ryan start to get serious and soon realize they both have a lot of baggage to deal with. That baggage starts to spill over into their relationship and mistakes are made. It leads to some major changes and revelations. Will Kate and Ryan be able to get through their issues? You have to read this amazing book to find out.

I am once again blown away by the author's talent. She can weave a story together so well. You always fall in love with her characters and get sucked into their world. The writing is top notch and flows so well. I recommend this book highly as a must read to others.

Excerpt:



On Monday I missed Ryan’s entire lecture, zoning in and out as he spoke, trying to make sense of everything that had happened with Carter. I couldn’t wrap my mind around the way he’d blown up over something that was nonexistent. I wasn’t involved with Ryan, I wasn’t planning on getting involved with Ryan, and I definitely had no interest in pursuing a

relationship at all, let alone with my professor. Didn’t Carter know me at all? Hadn’t I made myself clear?

The truth began to gnaw away at me, the silence in my mind revealing my most inner realities—that I did like Ryan. I did let him flirt with me, and on some level, I enjoyed it. But so what? I wasn’t going to let it go anywhere. Certainly not after what I’d heard about him, even if I couldn’t believe everything I heard. And knowing he was dating the redhead? And likely romancing another blonde? Forget it. I wasn’t that girl, no matter how much he raised my blood pressure. So why was all this eating away at me so much?

Surely I wasn’t attracted to Ryan because I knew he was bad for me. And if I was, what kind of person did that make me? Knots formed in my stomach and I sank further down into my seat while I pondered the potential truth of Carter’s comments.

Before I knew it, class was over, and as everyone began piling out of the room, Ryan leisurely rested against his desk, rolling his pencil between his fingers as he watched me walk down the stairway to meet him, a cocky, expectant grin on his face.

I decided to keep things formal.

“Mr. Campbell, you wanted to see me?”

“Why yes, Ms. Parker, I did.” His grin turned to a frown when he heard my address, his tone uncertain. He stopped toying with the pencil and turned to grab a piece of paper. The room filled with silence as the last student shut the door.

“There’s something I wanted to show you, and I was wondering if you’d be interested in going with me.”

Going with him? Crap. “Okay...”

“It’s a writer’s conference in Portland, a month from now. I’ve had two spots reserved for months now, just in case one of my students wanted to attend. It’s a great chance to network and improve your craft.” He handed me the flyer.

I didn’t take my eyes off of it.

“No pressure or anything, just thought I’d offer.”

“Why are you asking me?”

“Sorry?”

“I mean, why me and not one of your other students?”

“Because I have faith in your work and I’m excited to see where it’s going to take you.” His eyes turned cold, his jaw set. “Is that sufficient for you?” He lifted himself from the desk, standing now.

“No, Mr. Campbell. I don’t think it is.”

“Is there a problem, Ms. Parker? Something you want to say to me?” Reaching for his tie, he began to loosen it, unraveling it with his fingers, angry eyes still locked on mine.

“I’m not sure I like being your pet. Or your science project, I don’t know which.”

“You have a smart mouth.”

“You make smart observances.”

“You’re going to make this invitation difficult, aren’t you?”

“If you’re dishonest with me, yes.”

“You’ll regret it if you don’t accept.”

“Is that a threat?”

“That’s a promise.”

I pursed my lips and peered out the window.

“Dishonest with you about what, exactly?”

My head snapped toward him again. “Are you inviting me to this because you sincerely want me to go to the conference or because you like me?”

“Like you? What is this, third grade? My answer is both. And that’s a problem because?”

“I’ve heard things about you.”

“Oh?” He plopped down onto the ledge of the desk.

“That you sleep with your students and cheat on your girlfriend.”

“Excuse me? I don’t have a girlfriend. And who I sleep with isn’t any of your damn business.” He walked around to the other side of his desk, removed his gray tweed jacket and flicked it onto his chair.

“I think it is my business if I’m going to be spending time with you off campus. And isn’t the redhead your girlfriend?”

“I’m assuming you’re referring to Alisha, and no, she is not my girlfriend. Not anymore. Damn it, Kate, who the hell do you think you are? You’re my student, I’m offering you a chance to go to this conference, and you’re going to take it. That’s it, nothing more.”

“Excuse me?”

He veered around the desk to stand in front of me again, our faces inches apart, nose to nose. “You heard me. You’re going to go because you deserve it. You’re going to go because it’s an excellent opportunity for you, and nothing you hear about me on this damn campus or elsewhere is going to deter you, understand?” He licked his lips and rubbed his jaw, glare stone cold.

My fists balled at my sides and I could feel my face flush, a combination of fury at his audacity and nervousness from standing so close to his mouth again. I didn’t trust myself around that mouth.

“You don’t even know me.”

“I know your writing.”

“That’s not the same thing.”

“It’s more than enough.”

“Are you attracted to me, Mr. Campbell?”

“Ryan.”

“Ryan. Well are you?”

“Of course I am, Kate. What, are you not used to men finding you attractive? Do you need me to display it on a parade float for you? Do you want me to do a song and dance?” He spoke quieter now, an angry whisper. “I won’t screw you over like the other female students I have in the past, if that’s what you’re asking.”

“So it’s true.” I breathed, my eyes bouncing from his lips back to his smoldering, caramel eyes.

“I’m not proud of it and I can’t take it back. So take it or leave it.” He shifted forward and his fingertips grazed mine. “I won’t feed you lies and bullshit, Kate. I’ve messed around with my students and I was a complete asshole about it. But you’re too good for me. I wouldn’t hurt you. And from here on out, I won’t say or do anything that will make you uncomfortable. You can go to the conference without me, please just go.” Too good for him? What? Why is he talking as if he knows me? Damn it, where is this going?

The tips of his warm fingers sent a jolt through me and I involuntarily moved closer to him, understanding the weight of what I was about to do—right here in his classroom. A hypnotic thrall reeled me in, calling me to his touch, toward the current that passed from his fingertips to mine.

I peered up at him with frustration, trying to grasp his effect on me. It was so beyond my comprehension and yet so crystal clear. We shared similar defenses, just different mechanisms. He scared people off with his sleazy reputation and haughty persona, and I scared them off with the scars of my past and my workaholic nature. I could see right through him. Was I just as transparent?

“I won’t touch you unless you drop my class. And only if you want me to,” he shut his eyes and leaned in further, his lips barely touching mine as he tilted his head. “I can’t fuck up again, Kate. I won’t. Not with you.”

I rested my hand on his chest and felt it constrict, his heat pulling me in closer. “So if I’m not your student...” I whispered and brushed my lips over his, feeling his hand slip around and rest on the curve of my back. His stubble was so close and his heartbeat raced under the palm of my hand. He swept a few strands of hair away from my eyes and cupped my cheek in his palm, lightly brushed his lips against mine again, this time pressing down to capture a kiss.

The sound of the classroom door slamming against the wall caused us to jump apart.

“You son of a bitch.” There stood Alisha, the redhead, arms crossed and fury present. Damn. I thought I threw Ginger off the boat.

About the Author:

Rachael Wade is the author of the Amazon #1 best-selling paranormal romance series, The Resistance Trilogy, and the best-selling contemporary romance, Preservation. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and her work has been published in The Storyteller, A Hudson View International Poetry Digest, and Amulet Poetry. When she's not writing, she's busy learning French, watching too many movies, and learning how to protect wildlife and stop animal cruelty. The first title in her post-apocalyptic sci-fi romance series, The Keepers Trilogy, is set for release winter of 2012.

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Thanks for stopping by for the tour and thanks to Bewitching Book Tours for putting this together. 

Shift Cover Reveal

Hi Readers I have another awesome cover reveal for you to check out today. I loved it and it was so pretty.

Add to Goodreads

Shift: Firstborn #2

By Raine Thomas

Release Date: August 24, 2012

E-book

Book Description from Goodreads:

Having the ability to shapeshift, Sophia is familiar with change. But even she feels the rising tension in her homeland.

A shadowy male and deadly beast reside in their midst. The births of the newest Kynzesti loom. Hostile Mercesti continue to hunt for the Elder Scroll, and a traumatized female is too afraid to use her abilities to stop them.

Topping off Sophia’s stress is Quincy, the male she’s convinced can’t stand her. She rues the loss of their friendship, but can’t figure out how to move past it. She’ll soon learn, however, that mending that rift bears more significance than she ever imagined.

The search for the Elder Scroll takes on unexpected urgency, and Sophia finds herself in a race across the mainland. To stop the Mercesti led by Eirik, she and her companions must get past their differences and unite against them. If they don’t, Eirik will acquire the immense power he seeks, and two of the beings Sophia loves most will die.

About the Author:

Raine Thomas

DEFY (Firstborn Trilogy, Book 1) - NOW AVAILABLE

Now Available: BECOMING | CENTRAL | FORETOLD

http://www.RaineThomas.com| http://twitter.com/Raine_Thomas

http://facebook.com/RaineThomas| http://pinterest.com/Raine_Thomas

So what did you think? I loved this cover and the book sounds really good also.

The Glimpse Review

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Book: The Glimpse
Author: Claire Merle
Published: June 7,2012
Publisher: Faber and Faber Children's
ISBN:0571280536
Pages:432
Source: Publisher via Netgalley
My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads Blurb:

In a near future, society is segregated according to whether people are genetically disposed to mental illness. 17-year-old Ana has been living the privileged life of a Pure due to an error in her DNA test. When the authorities find out, she faces banishment from her safe Community, a fate only thwarted by the fact that she has already been promised to Pure-boy Jasper Taurell.

Jasper is from a rich and influential family and despite Ana’s condition, wants to be with her. The authorities grant Ana a tentative reprieve. If she is joined to Jasper before her 18th birthday, she may stay in the Community until her illness manifests. But if Jasper changes his mind, she will be cast out among the Crazies. As Ana’s joining ceremony and her birthday loom closer, she dares to hope she will be saved from the horror of the City and live a ‘normal’ life. But then Jasper disappears.

Led to believe Jasper has been taken by a strange sect the authorities will not intefere with, Ana sneaks out of her well-guarded Community to find him herself. Her search takes her through the underbelly of society, and as she delves deeper into the mystery of Jasper’s abduction she uncovers some devastating truths that destroy everything she has grown up to believe.My Review:

I have to really gotten into reading  a lot of dystopian books lately. I have to say this one stands out from the rest. The concept was fresh and different and was a refreshing change. In this book the people are broken down by their mental illnesses. You are considered perfect if you can pass a genetics test that shows you won't have any mental issues. This in itself is interesting because it really shows how messed up this society must be.

We start this book by meeting Ariana who is being called out of class. She learns that her test was incorrect and she is not Pure. It literally changes her world ad she knows it. She becomes engrossed with learning more and how to cope with what she does know. We also learn that this society has what are called bindings. This is where we meet Jasper. Jasper and Ariana seem to be the safe couple. Jasper seems to be going through the motions with her but is an overall stand up guy.

Jasper tells Ariana some information that changes things in some drastic ways. Jasper turns up missing and Ariana goes to look for him. Ariana starts living her life as Ana. Ana's search leads her to Cole and a life she never dreamed of. She made me really love her as a character as she got stronger and learned to stand up for herself more. Ana meets Cole and I fell in love right then. Cole was amazing on so many levels. The chemistry between him and Anna was amazing. I loved them together.

Cole and Ana run into many obstacles as they try to uncover the truth. They are put into some truly horrific situations but manage to come out on top. I have to say the ending of this book had me in tears. I so didn't see it ending the way it did. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Overall I loved every aspect of this book. It had so much awesomeness in it. The writing was phenomal and out of this world good. The author created some fleshed out characters with such complexity. The world building with the scenes from in and outside of the city were great too. The differences were so well developed. I highly recommend this book to all readers.

Thanks to Faber and Faber and Netgalley for letting me review this one.

300/350 Follower Giveaway

Follower Giveaway

So I know I'm let in posting this since I'm at 377 followers but I promised I would have a giveaway when I hit 300. Well today is your lucky day because since I am posting late I am combining the 300 and 350 follower giveaway. I'm giving away 2 $25 E-Gift Cards to either Amazon or Barnes and Noble.  Just fill out the rafflecopter below for your chance to win. Good luck to all my wonderful readers. I can't think you enough for supporting me. This giveaway will run until August 31st so make sure you enter.

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Joanne Troppello Author interview

Welcome readers. Today I have an author interview for you to check out today with Joanne Troppello. I would like to welcome her to the blog.

Welcome Joanne. I'm so glad you are here.

Can you describe your writing process? Anyplace special you like to write at or any special music you listen to?

I usually brainstorm and do a basic plot line for each book. However, as the story starts moving along, there are times
   when I deviate from that plan because that’s where the inspiration is taking me. I work from home as a freelance writer
   and marketing consultant during the day and work on my books at night.The TV is on while I write, but sometimes I need
   to listen to music for inspiration.

    What inspired you to become a writer?

 been interested in  learning the craft and trying to perfect my work.I love to write and it’s one of

my favorite things to do. My first book,  Shadowed Remembrances, is a mystery novel.I am a

huge fan of the mystery genre—I love Agatha Christie’s work and also other contemporary

suspense novels.I enjoy watching mystery and crime dramas on TV and movies.My first book is a

mystery novel in the sub-category of police procedurals with a crime scene investigator as the lead character. 

Describe your writing style?

  I write romantic suspense with a contemporary style with humor and witty characters. In my inspirational romance novels, I write contemporary romances with a classic feel.

What character of all of your charcters do you love the most?

 I really love the characters of Det. Marc Abrams and U.S. Marshall Samantha Collins from Bella Lucia.They have instant chemistry from the moment they meet and I had the most fun writing their scenes together.

What is the best compliment you have received as a writer?

A reader sent me an email sharing how my book, Mr. Shipley's Governess, reminded her of an old-world feel, similar to the tone of a Jane Austen novel...a very nice compliment, that I cherish, especially since Jane Austen is my favorite author of classic literature. 

 What are you reading right now and do you have a favorite genre?

  I just finished reading Kincaid’s Hope by Grace Greene.It’s her second book (her debut novel is Beach Rental) and I loved  both of them. She’s a great author of romance and romantic suspense. My favorite genre to read and also write is romantic suspense.

Give us some interesting facts about yourself?

1. From childhood until the present day, I've lived in 12 different houses/apts.

   2. I have 7 brothers and 2 sisters (my mom had 4 biological children and adopted 5 and I have 1 half-brother)
  

3. Because we moved a lot, I went to several elementary schools, two junior high schools and three differnt high schools
  

 4. My sister and I used to do impromptu puppet shows for the kids group at our church
  

 5. My brothers, sisters and I used to play manhunt and capture the flag and loved hanging outside after school

What do you want to tell your readers?

I enjoy hearing from readers.I have heard from readers and so far what they have said is very encouraging to me. It’s nice to hear  when readers find my books interesting and are looking forward to reading my next books.   

What can we look forward to from you next?

   Currently, I am working on the edits for the second edition of my first novel, Shadowed Remembrances. Next on the agenda is to write book two in that series and then start a new series in the YA Paranormal romance genre. 

If you could have superpowers what would they be?

Having the power to become invisible would be great. It might come in handy sometime if I'm ever being chased by a criminal and need to  disappear quickly...Or maybe if life gets too stressful, I’d like to disappear for a while and forget about cooking dinner or folding laundry or cleaning house! lol 
Flash Round

 Dogs or Cats: 

Cats

 Sweet or Salty: 

Salty

 Ebooks or Physical Books: 

Ebooks

Cake or Ice Cream: 

 Ice cream

Vacation or Staycation: 

 Vacation

About Joanne Troppello

Joanne Troppello is an author of romantic suspense novels.  She has published three books: Shadowed Remembrances, Mr. Shipley’s Governess and Bella Lucia. Currently, she is working on her new writing project, editing the second edition of Shadowed Remembrances in The Paradise Redeemed Series. Joanne is married and loves spending time with her husband and family. She enjoys interacting with readers at The Mustard Seed Blog.

Blog: http://joannetroppello.weebly.com/blog.html

Twitter: http://twitter.com/JoanneTroppello 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joanne.troppello  

I hope you liked the interview today. Thanks to Joanne for allowing me to interview her and thanks for stopping by.