blog tour

Blog Tour: Saving Forever by Jasinda Wilder (review and giveaway)

Title: Saving Forever
(The Ever Trilogy)
Author: Jasinda Wilder

Ever and Cade,

Sorry I vanished like I did. I’m not sure I can even explain things. I don’t know when I’ll be back. IF I’ll be back. I’m not sure of anything, except that I love you, Ever. You’re my twin, my best friend, and leaving you was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I know you don’t understand. Maybe you never will. I hope you don’t, honestly. It would be easier that way. That’s cowardly, I’m sure.

Cade, take care of her. Love her, the way she deserves. The way you always have, for forever and always.

If I could ask you anything, it’s that you remember me as I was, and forget me as I am.

I’m sorry, and goodbye, and I love you.

Eden

And so all good things must come to an end…

“I love you. No matter what. Forever and Always.”

It felt like a year since I finished book two of this trilogy. Jasinda left off with a shocking ending and questioning where book three would take me. Taking events full of tragedy, heartache, loneliness, and anger and twisting them into 541 pages of hope and second chances is not easily achieved. Jasinda’s words layer like Band-Aids. Word by word and page by page, Saving Forever, heals four lives that will never be the same. 

“Forgiveness is a choice, and so is love.” 

Forgiveness and eternal love become the shining glimmer of hope in a story full of angst. Having the strength to forgive and an iron clad hold on eternal love push forward both Ever and Eden’s stories. To forgive others is hard but to forgive yourself…well that is where you start Saving Forever. 

“Accept the guilt, acknowledge your fault. Then, live. Learn from it, and keep going. You don’t forget, you don’t block it or bury it. You just… live. Don’t let guilt define you.”

Live and accept. There are moments in life that will thrust you so far out of your own body that you feel as if you are watching someone else’s story. Coming to grips, this foursome helps one another through what would break most. Saving Forever illustrates that there is more to life then our own personal burdens but when we step back and see “the” big picture only then can we live it. Book three of The Ever Trilogy adds to a long line of Jasinda Wilder favorites! Adding this series to your bookshelf is a book lover must.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jasinda Wilder is a Michigan native with a penchant for titillating tales about sexy men and strong women. When she’s not writing, she’s probably shopping, baking, or reading. 
​Some of her favorite authors include Nora Roberts, JR Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Liliana Hart and Bella Andre. 
She loves to travel and some of her favorite vacations spots are Las Vegas, New York City and Toledo, Ohio. 
You can often find Jasinda drinking sweet red wine with frozen berries and eating a cupcake. 
Jasinda is represented by Kristin Nelson of the Nelson Literary Agency.

GR | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon

Saving Forever Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00HFFEN4C
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00HFFEN4C

Forever & Always Buy Links:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/18WCGFL
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1cgL0WT
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/18WDLgO
ITUNES: http://bit.ly/18WENcF
Kobo: http://bit.ly/18WEWg5

After Forever Buy Links:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/Jbr9eJ
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/192Yv9E
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/192Yzq4

Blog Tour: Unwanted Stars by Melissa Brown (review, playlist, giveaway)


Title: Unwanted Stars
Author: Melissa Brown
 Release Date: Feb 3rd, 2014

It’s funny how the tiniest of things can change your life… an invitation, a simple kiss goodnight, a matchbook…
Auden Kelly is in need of a change.
She’s trading in her nine-to-five sales job for the adventure of a lifetime: a one year contract with a European tour company.
For one full year, Auden will get paid to see the world. What could be better? Her brother gives her a journal, instructing her to document all of her adventures as she travels from country to country. And that’s exactly what she does.
When a mysterious stranger enters her life, however, everything changes: her expectations, her priorities and her view of the world. And nothing for Auden will ever be the same.
Note: Although these books are part of a series, they do not need to be read in order

Adventure takes on a whole new meaning in Melissa Brown’s Unwanted Stars. 
Attractive settings, a handsome stranger, and a journey of self-discovery help create a picture perfect postcard. In this charming 5 star travel experience, Unwanted Stars proves that even though the landscape has changed Melissa Brown still retains her “Queen of Love” crown.
Travel the world. Find yourself! Sometimes easier said than done…Right?!?!
Desperately seeking her own place in this ordinary world, Auden has set her course for adventure. 
   

Armed with her journal, a cast of thrill seeking tour guests, and the idea that there is more to life than 9 to 5, Auden learns the most important lesson of all. Love is a universal language and no matter where you go love will you.

“Everything you feel…absolutely everything. I feel it too. Please. Don’t. Doubt. That.”


To say that this journey was one of ease would be an untruth. Let’s face it, self-discovery never is. Auden’s European Adventure was not tour brochure perfect. Family truths boil to the surface and the limited stable ground that Auden is standing on crumbles to pieces. What do you when your known becomes the unknown?

“You make me feel so loved,” I said. “Even with all the craziness of my life. You’ve made everything better somehow.”

Melissa Brown has proven that love is more than four letter word. Crafting real life relationships with relatable characters her stories weave the perfect balance of angst, laughs, character growth, and just plain fun. Unwanted Stars will have you looking at the little things in life, like matchbooks and journals, in a whole new light. Part of the Love of Your Life Series, Unwanted Stars maybe read as a standalone or as the forth book of the series. If you don’t presently have Melissa marked as one of your go to authors stop what you are doing and add her to the list. You won’t want to miss a single word.

Total side note…the playlist for this book is musical perfection! Please do yourself a favor and pull it up. It will add to your reading experience and put a smile on your face. You can follow Melissa Brown on Spotify and hear the whole list.


I love books—everything about them. I love reading them, being surrounded by them in bookstores and libraries, and most recently, writing some of my own.

********

Cover: Bouquet Toss (Book One)
Cover: Champagne Toast (Book Two)
Note: Although these books are part of a series, they do not need to be read in order

Blog Tour: Used by Lynetta Halat (excerpt, playlist & giveaway)

Title: Used (Unlovable #1)
Author: Lynetta Halat
Genre: New Adult Romance
Release Date: January 19, 2014
Series: Unlovable

I am a slut. No worries. I’ve come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver

A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It’s this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom

Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex … for her anyway. — Greer

Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers …even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she’s found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver’s outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom’s interest turns to hatred.

Love. Hate. Triangle.

Who’s using who?

Let’s Get Lost

“I really don’t understand what you see in a slut like me, Greer.” His eyes flash, but I don’t let him argue with me. “But I am grateful.” And on that note, I bring his lips to mine. It’s been so long since we’ve tasted each other. We’ve been “seeing” each other for two weeks. Sweet, platonic dates that have ended with a sexually frustrated Denver.
I moan the instant our lips meet. I meant it to be a quick, reassuring, friendly kiss, since we agreed to refrain from that physical side of our relationship for a while, but my body has other ideas. She knows who’s been responsible for her pleasure in the past, and she wants some of that now.
Threading my fingers through his curls, I pull him in and shift my mouth, fitting my lips to his. My tongue darts out to tease his bottom lip, and he opens for me. “Oh, Greer,” I murmur before teasing him lightly. He’s so wet and so delicious. His now hard length rests against my thigh, and I groan. Oh, I want him. I want him now. “Greer, I want you,” I whisper against his lips before kissing him lightly. “Have you been with anyone else?” I screw my eyes tight because I hope not, but I would understand—we all have needs.
He stiffens against me for a second before he whispers gruffly, “Hell, no. Denver, you’re it for me, you know that.” His tongue tangles with mine, searching, destroying. He pulls back and utters, “I want you too. So bad.”
“Let’s go somewhere,” I coax. “There are lots of little trails for us to go get lost on.”
“Mmm … how ‘bout I make you feel good right here?” He nips at my bottom lip. “Right now?”
“What?” I breathe through my haze. “We might get caught.” He recaptures my lips with his and works me over with his tongue. Suddenly I’m reminded of the time we sneaked off during our prom. Oh my God. It was … mind-blowing. The thrill of getting caught. The thrill of our dates waiting for us in the ballroom of the hotel while we fucked each other hard, up against a wall in the housekeeping closet. Yes, please. I want that.
I’m jerked from my thoughts as he pulls me from the truck bed. I latch my legs around his waist, not certain where we are going, but along for the ride, nevertheless. He doesn’t take me far. His truck is farthest from the little party on the creek. He doesn’t open the door though. Just pins me to the truck and lets me slide down, drops one of my legs, and pulls the other high on his hip. He nudges my free leg between his and squeezes me tight.
“You ready? Hold on,” he commands before I can answer.
“What? What are you doing?”
“Trust me,” he says, as he buries his mouth in the hollow of my throat. His hands slide in my back pockets, grasping and squeezing. “We promised. No touching like that. No sex. Even though I can’t wait to be inside you again, this is gonna have to do.” He drops his forehead on mine. Those fiery eyes meet mine, igniting a blaze. “The best non-fuck fuck of your life.” And those words douse it with kerosene, creating an inferno. A tremble works its way through me, and I almost come right then.

Since the dawn of time, Lynetta Halat has lived to read and has written innumerable stories and plays. A lover of good books, bad boys, and kickass tunes, she’d always dreamt of penning books that people could connect with and remember. She also has a secret penchant for wringing the emotions out of unsuspecting readers, and she collects reader’s tears in much the same way that wine connoisseurs collect their favorite vintage.

Her first novel, Every Rose, was the perfect catalyst to launch her into the world of publishing, effectively burrowing her way into the hearts and minds of readers throughout the world. Everything I’ve Never Had was her follow-up adult romance novel. Now, she has penned Used, a New Adult Romance that she hopes sinks its teeth into you and doesn’t let go.

Her love of the English language prompted her to pursue a Master’s degree in English from Old Dominion University in Virginia, where she also minored in snark and interpretive dance. She lives somewhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast with her adorable husband, two amazing sons, and two loveable dogs. When she’s not writing riveting stories, she likes to focus on her macramé art and her scouring of eBay, where she buys locks of hair from her favorite rock stars, most especially Bret Michaels and Dave Grohl.

Blog Tour: Loving Cara by Kristen Proby (review, book trailer, author spotlight &giveaway)

Title: Loving Cara
Author: Kristen Proby
Released: Jan. 21st

CHEMISTRY WAS NEVER THIS SEXY IN HIGH SCHOOL.
In her sizzling new series, USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby sets the stage for a passionate reunion under the breathtaking Montana sky.
Cara Donovan’s summer tutoring job is turning out to be a challenge—and not just because of her troubled twelve-year-old student. It’s his uncle Josh who’s the real problem. If problem is the word for an irresistibly cocky, muscle-bound rancher with a taste for tight Levi’s and shameless flirtation. . . .
Cara is nothing like the wallflower Josh King remembers good-naturedly teasing in high school. This Cara is gorgeous, confident, fun. From the moment the fiery teacher steps foot on his family’s Lazy K Ranch, the stubborn playboy is determined to corral her. So what happens when his luscious lover takes over the reins?
The first in a steamy trilogy, Kristen Proby’s enthralling novel is filled to the brim with one hardworking family’s triumphs and challenges, all the wild adventure of the modern West, and a whole lot of titillating fun.

Josh King is an expert at running his family’s multi-million dollar ranch in Montana. (And all that outside manual labor has done wonders for sculpting his six-foot-three body, too.) But as sure footed as he is when it comes to the ranch, Josh doesn’t know anything about how to deal with an adolescent boy—so when his twelve-year-old nephew, Seth, is dropped off on his doorstep, looking scared and acting surly as hell, Josh knows he needs help in straightening him out.
Cara Donovan loves her quiet life as a teacher in her sleepy hometown, so she jumps at the chance to make a little money over the summer as a tutor. But when she learns she’ll be teaching Josh King’s nephew, Cara’s sweet summer job gets a little bit hotter. Cara tries to focus all her attention on tutoring Seth, but Josh proves to be a delicious distraction, while Josh’s memories of the shy girl he once teased in high school are nothing like the beautiful woman he’s facing now. Can he persuade her that there’s more between them than a summer fling?
________________________________________________________________________
“If you can tell stories, create characters, devise incidents, and have sincerity and passion, it doesn’t matter a damn how you write.”
– Somerset Maugham
And that my friends sum up Kristen Proby. Truthfully, she could create a story about a boy and his pet rock and I would be lining up to read it. Kristen’s sincerity and passion flow through each and every word that graces the pages of her novels. I was lucky enough to stumble upon her first series by complete accident. Powerful stories of love, friendship, personal struggles, and family have moved Kristen to the top of my must read authors list. When discussion of a new series came to light I made sure I had open real estate on my Kindle because lets face it…its Kristen Mother F’n Proby.
The Love Under the Big Sky Series brings us the family/friends dynamic you’ve come to love from Kristen. Not only has she given us an awe-inspiring love story but we are also treated to a cast of secondary characters that prove, within a mere 352 pages, they are worthy of more. Loving Cara may have you asking “Montgomery Who?” *ducks and runs for cover* Ok maybe you won’t forget our loving friends northwest of us because there are far too many hot men running around that state BUT will you definitely leave a little of your heart under the Montana sky.
Josh King! King is very fitting for this man. His undying devotion to family wins him a gold star, heck he gets the whole pack. Once is nephew makes an unexpected journey back to the Montana ranch, the King family steps up. Seth, as would any child, is troubled and fighting to find himself after being pushed aside by his own mother. Josh begins working with Seth and also supplies a little extra assistance with one Cara Donovan. 
Cara is thrown back into Josh’s life and while Cara means business, Josh is looking at the once shy girl in a new light…a bright shining 100 watt bulb. Always the shy girl Cara is unsure of the new attention. Will Josh breakdown Cara’s walls? Only way to find out is to pick up this Proby treasure. Loving Cara is well worth the buy. Not only will you get Josh and Cara but for one low, low price you will get the whole Montana gang…Seth, Ty, Zack, Lauren, and Jillian included! Sounds like a late night infomercial. Right?! Don’t lie you watch them and maybe even have a set of knifes tucked in a drawer! So give into the guilty pleasure know as Kristen Proby. Loving Cara = blissful joy!
  1. First congratulations on your new series!  I know all the “Proby Peeps” are excited for Loving Cara and the whole Love Under the Big Sky crew.  You have gifted us with yet another gem.  Where did the idea for this series come from?              
Thank you so much! I’m excited about this new series too. I came up with the idea for a series based in Montana about fifteen years ago. I grew up in a small town in Montana very similar to the one I’ve created in Cunningham Falls. It felt natural to write about that setting and the colorful people who live there, although none of my characters are based on anyone real.
  1. How hard was it to make the transition form the big city to life under the Montana sky?    
It wasn’t hard at all, actually, and I think that’s because of the many years I spent in Montana. It’s home for me.
  1. You are never lacking for HOT men and Josh King is one very HOT man.  Where do you pull these guys from?  Do you have a HOT guy pocket in your brain?  A secret room of your home filled to the rim with HOT men?  By the way…I will be over in 5!   
Ha! I wish I had a Hot Guy Room! That sounds better than the red room of pain. 😉 I guess I just have an over-active imagination that has no trouble thinking about gorgeous men.
  1. Loving Cara has the strong family dynamic that we have all come to love from your With Me Series.  Do you draw from your own family experiences?     
Some, yes. I had a large, boisterous extended family growing up. My parents instilled the importance of family in me when I was very young.
  1. Thank you for writing strong female characters.  Sometimes with all the alpha males running around the women get lost.  You write women who have a voice, are funny, and relatable.  Women you want as best friends.  Are these women in your life?
Absolutely. I am surrounded by strong, funny, loving women. This describes the women in my family, and those that are my friends. It’s rarely boring around here!
  1. After reading Loving Cara I am over the moon about the men in this series!  The next two books are going to be epic!  Ty and Zack just make me happy!  Can you let us in on what to expect form the next two books? 
I love the men in this series too. Thank you! Ty is a tattooed guy who wears a business suit every day. He’s protective and sweet, and I can’t wait for you to read his story! Zack is beautifully damaged. He has his share of baggage, but along with that, he has a great sense of humor and love of family. They are both going to give their girls a run for their money!
  1. Do you think the Seattle family would ever take a trip to the Montana ranch for a family vacation?  Maybe a small novella??  Maybe!  Just Maybe!  Plus just think of the funny American Girl store trip!  You know the girls need cowgirl outfits before the head on over to the Big Sky!  Priceless! *hint hint
LOL! That would be funny, but there are no plans to merge the two series at this time.
  1. Lastly, THANK YOU!  Your words and have touched so many.  I read over and over that the books are bringing people together. Creating friendships across state lines and even across countries.  Loving Cara and the Big Sky Series will just be another in a long line of Proby excellence!  Any last words about Loving Cara or the new series you would like to share?
I’m so grateful to all of my readers, whether they’ve been with me since the first book, or they’re brand new, just discovering me. THANK YOU, for reading and talking about the stories. I hope you enjoy the Love Under the Big Sky series. They are stories that are close to my heart, and I can’t wait for you all to make new friends and fall in love with them. And thank you, Pam and Cris, for hosting me! I love you girls! xo
Kristen is the author of the Amazon and USA Today bestselling With Me In Seattle series. She has a passion for a good love story and strong characters who love humor and have a strong sense of loyalty and family. Her men are the alpha type; fiercely protective and a bit bossy, and her ladies are fun, strong, and not afraid to stand up for themselves.
Kristen spends her days with her muse in the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys coffee, chocolate and sunshine. And naps.

Blog Tour: Rome by Jay Crownover (Review and Giveaways)

The MARKED MEN are coming back on January 7, 2014, so get ready for the ride of your life with ROME (MARKED MEN #3) by the fabulous Jay Crownover.
You’ve met inked-up bad boy RULE (Marked Men #1) and have been swept away by the lyrical JET (Marked Men #2). Now, get ready to be riveted by Rule’s older brother ROME.
Rome returns to Denver after serving his country and leaving a part of his soul, along with his blood, behind on the sands of the battlefield. When he meets Cora, sparks fly and all bets are off in this steamy, heart wrenching love story. Can two souls who have their own dark past survive the explosion of them coming together. Find out in ROME on January 7th.
Be sure to join us as are part of the Jay Crownover’s Rome Book Tour.

Author: Jay Crownover
Genre: New Adult
Publication Date: January 7, 2013
Synopsis
Cora Lewis is a whole lot of fun, and she knows how to keep her tattooed bad boy friends in line. But all that flash and sass hide the fact that she’s never gotten over the way her first love broke her heart. Now she has a plan to make sure that never happens again: She’s only going to fall in love with someone perfect.
Rome Archer is as far from perfect as a man can be. He’s stubborn and rigid, he’s bossy and has come back from his final tour of duty fundamentally broken. Rome’s used to filling a role: big brother, doting son, super soldier; and now none of these fit anymore. Now he’s just a man trying to figure out what to do with the rest of his life while keeping the demons of war and loss at bay. He would have been glad to suffer it alone, until Cora comes sweeping into his life and becomes the only color on his bleak horizon.
Perfect isn’t in the cards for these two, but imperfect might just last forever . . .

Goodreads:

Pre- Order Links

Five amazingly burning stars!!!!
Rome! Rome! Rome!
All hail Rome!
Can I just say that Rome is soooo hot – there aren’t enough words to describe just how hot he is!
Rome is a man who is tortured by the demons of his past – both in the battlefield and the news he’s learned of his brother. He’s not in a good place to say the least. His brother Rule is having a great life with his deceased brother’s best friend and Rome is not convinced that Rule has changed or that he will be actually happy with Shaw. Life hasn’t been kind to Rome and he takes out his aggression to his closest friends and family.
Enter Cora – aka Tink – a spitfire who can duke it out with Rome and his grumpiness. Whew!!! The pages were burning with sexual tension and rich dialogues that as a reader you go, “Egads, what just happened?”
Jay Crownover is a master storyteller. Her stories are rich with content, character, and their backstories are just as amazing. The Marked Men gang’s back in full force and I don’t want to give away so much but I love reading about all of them – Rule, Shaw, Jet, Ayden, Nash, even Asa…The cover is smoking! I can really picture the guy on the cover as Rome and boy is he good-looking!!
Ms. Crownover’s hit the ballpark and then some in this latest Marked Men installment and I cannot even begin to say how much I’m anticipating Nash’s story next!

Author Information

Jay Crownover Author Pic copyI’m supposed to share interesting details about myself so that my readers get to know me so here we go in no particular order: I’m an natural redhead even though I haven’t seen my real hair color in years, I’m a big fan of tattoos and have a half sleeve on either arm and various other pieces all over the place, I’ve been in the bar industry since I was in college and it has always offered interesting insight into how men and women interact with each other, I have 3 dogs that are all crazy, I live in Colorado and love the snow, I love music and in all reality wish I could be a rock star not a writer or a bartender but I have zero talent so there is that.
I love to write, love to read and all I’m interested in is a good story with interesting characters that make the reader feel something.

Blog Tour: Return to Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia

Title: Return to Poughkeepsie
Author: Debra Anastasia

Beckett Taylor is a murderer. His calling, his craft are destruction and intimidation—whether he wants it that way now or not. He left Poughkeepsie to keep his brothers safe, to keep Eve safe. Set up with happy lives to live, they’re better off without him, right?

But all his willpower crumbles when he hears his brother Blake’s frantic voice on the phone. An unknown enemy has moved in on his old territory, and Livia’s been taken. In an instant, Beckett knows it will take an attack only he and Eve can execute to bring her back. All his self-imposed embargoes are torn to shreds, perhaps along with the new man he’s struggled to become.
“Brother, call Eve. I’ll be there soon.” 
In this emotional and action-packed sequel to Poughkeepsie, Debra Anastasia conjures a tale of love at its most raw and ragged. With Beckett and Eve, how could we expect anything less? But even when it’s messy, not magical, true love perseveres. Real love finds a way—for better or for worse until death does part.

~ What were you like in school?
I was talkative. I did my work and tried really hard but I got in trouble for being social at the wrong times. I was even spanked by a nun!

~ When did you decide to become a writer?
I think I always wanted to be one but the perfect storm of a computer, the internet and readers didn’t happen until 2009. At that moment I sat down and figured if I tried it and anyone liked it, it would be a fun hobby.

~ Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the leads for the Poughkeepsie Series?
That’s a tough question because I have actors that are too old in mind. Blake would be Robert Pattinson, Livia would be Lucy Griffiths. I’d love Eve to be played by Jennifer Morrison. I’d just love Kellen Lutz as Beckett too!

~ Do you read much, if so who are your favorite authors?
I love reading. My favorite authors are the ones that can grab you on those first few pages. JK Rowling, Dan Brown, John Grisham, E.L. James.

~ If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?
I love, love the Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning. The females in that world are so fantastic. I’m proud when I read about a lady that can take care of herself.

~ What is your favorite quote?
“If you’re not having a good time it’s your own damn fault.” By my grandfather. He rocked.

~ Do you have any unique talents or hobbies?
I’m loving this Rainbow Loom thing my daughter has. I’m spending way too much time watching youtube and making little rubber band animals. I also love to knit!

~ What is one thing about you that most people don’t know?
That I majored in Political Science in college with every intention of becoming the President of the United Stated.

~ What can we expect from you in the future?
I’m so very close to releasing a crazy, groundbreaking Enhanced Collector’s Edition of Poughkeepsie in App form. I’m excited. The music, videos, interviews and how-to instructions for various Poughkeepsie-themed crafts are embedded inside. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done professionally.

~ Anything else you want us to know?

That you are adorable and women are rock stars.

~ I read some where that Poughkeepsie started as a fanfic, would you tell us about that?
Fanfiction is where I very proudly got my start. It was the most exceptional place to learn how to write. I miss it being a part of my everyday

Lady Boner. Who has a lady boner for this series? THIS GIRL!!!!
Seriously, if you know me, you know it’s true. I kinda have a girl crush on Debra Anastasia. She totally rocks my world. In Poughkeepsie, she didn’t give us one book boyfriend, she gave us three!! Did you hear me? I said she gave us THREE! Three amazingly sexy, hot book boyfriends. Now if you truly know me in real life, you also know I have a penchant for the sexy alpha male, bad boy with tattoos and piercings. That man kind of makes my lady parts tingle.
What… what??? I’ve never been shy! Oh, you all want a review? What can I say? I FREAKING LOVED this book!!! Five stars!!!!! Why you ask?
When does a scar become a tattoo?
Yes, let that sink in… When does a scar, become a tattoo?
There is something amazingly beautiful about this book. Shut it. Yes, I said there is something amazingly beautiful about this book. Beautiful, I tell you. We are presented with a man who is so wrong in so many ways. He’s done the worst things imaginable. He is a person we shouldn’t love. He’s a murder, a criminal, a douche. He’s intimidating. He uses people…
He also has a heart of gold. Heart of flipping gold. **insert major SWOON here**
Yep, I’m in love. He never got the chance to say all the things he wanted to say. Beckett Taylor is charming. He’s scary. He’s loyal. He’s funny. He’s got a way with words. Whitebread will forever make me smile (read the book and you will get it). He’s sexy, incredibly sexy, he’s raw, and oh so sexy. Did I mention he’s sexy? He’s broken. He’s demolished on the inside. He loves his family. He loves his family. (Yep, I said that twice for dramatic effect).

“He does life wrong, for all of the right reasons.”

What defines family? I can totally post Webster’s definition here, but it means zero. Family is love. Period. Finite. No one can describe or tell someone else what family is. This family is about three brothers.
This story is about one man, a bad man. It’s about him giving his life for his family. He leaves them, believing they are better off without him, believing he is protecting them. His anger and guilt crippling him. Do you run from a member of your family when they feel that they don’t deserve you? Or do you realize you need them as much as they need you?
This book changed me. I rode this roller coaster at least twice, reading it. This was a poignant story. It kinda rocked my world. Who wants to die alone? Who wants their scars to be hidden? Who wants to be afraid and be numb?
I want to talk so much about it, but I refuse to give the story away.
Debra has an amazing talent for making the ugly parts of life beautiful. She does it with grace and charm. She has an ability to force us to look at life and question what we thought we knew to be true. Sometimes, we need to see the rest of the story. Occasionally, loving the bad guy is everything that you’ve missed, and the only thing that makes you, and your life real. It wakes you from your dream.
Or maybe it takes you further in…. and again I ask, when does your scar become your tattoo?
Debra Anastasia is busy, just like every other mom. There’s dinner, the dogs, the two kids, the two kids, and her ongoing battle with…ahem… digestive issues, which combined with her adolescent boy sense of humor makes for colorful and sometimes cringe-worthy social media updates. Her first love and crowning achievement is her thriving career as the weirdest mom on the block.
Her writing started a decent handful of years ago when–along with the animals and humans in her house–the voices of characters started whispering stories in Debra’s ear. Insomnia was the gateway to plots that wouldn’t give up, wouldn’t let go. Now they stalk her everywhere. Halfway through making lunches, a twist takes hold and–fingers full of peanut butter–she finds somewhere, anywhere to write it down.
She’s eternally grateful to Omnific Publishing, which has now published four of her books: two in the Seraphim Series and two in the Poughkeepsie Brotherhood Series, as well as her novella, Late Night with Andres. That one is special because 100% of the proceeds go to breast cancer research. (So go get it right now, please!) She also very much appreciates her open-minded readers, who embrace everything she has to offer, with a focus on anti-heroes and bathroom humor.Debra lives in Maryland with her family. You can find her at DebraAnastasia.com and on Twitter @Debra_Anastasia. But be prepared.

Blog Tour & Review: Girl of Lies by Charles Sheehan Miles

Title: Girl of Lies
Author: Charles Sheehan-Miles
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Hosted by: ACS Tours

Andrea Thompson is smart, assertive and beautiful. She’s also desperately lonely. Raised in Europe by her grandmother, she struggles knowing neither of her parents wanted her, and she has no idea why.

When Andrea receives an urgent call from her older sister Carrie, she agrees to fly to the United States to help. Carrie’s newborn daughter Rachel needs a bone marrow transplant.

What Andrea doesn’t know is that her return to the United States will launch a chain of events that will uncover secrets hidden for decades. Secrets which will rock the Thompson family and ignite a political firestorm.

Secrets that some will kill to protect.

Girl of Lies is Book 1 of the Rachel’s Peril political suspense trilogy, a spinoff series of the Thompson Sisters (A Song for Julia, Falling Stars, Just Remember to Breathe and The Last Hour).   It is not necessary to have read the Thompson Sisters books before reading Rachel’s Peril.
I have to start by saying this book was not what I expected.  I was first introduced to Charles with The Thompson’s Sisters Trilogy.  I fell in love with this series and A Song for Julia is on the top of my favorites list.  Going into Girl of Lies I was unsure of what to expect.  Unquestionably, Girl of Lies is a total 180 from The Thompson Sisters.  The difference, political thriller takes front and center over romance. 

Andrea was the one sister I was dying to know more about.  She was a mystery from the start.  To say that the Thompson family is 100% wacked is an understatement.  Like fitting a round peg in a square hole, the Thompson’s give new meaning to dysfunction.  No joke.  I read these books and thank God my family is only semi crazy.      
  
As always Charles presents a well written story with amazing character development.  Although I am not a fan of political thrillers I was able to appreciate the story.  Learning what caused the Thompson family to downward spiral kept me interested.  Be warned that you will be left with a huge cliffhanger.  Leave it to the Thompsons to keep us guessing.
   

Charles Sheehan-Miles has been a soldier, computer programmer, short-order cook and non-profit executive, and is the author of several fiction and non-fiction books, including the indie bestsellers Just Remember to Breathe and Republic: A Novel of America’s Future.

Blog Tour: Gabriel’s Redemption by Sylvain Reynard (Review)

Author: Sylvain Reynard
Title: Gabriel’s Redemption (Gabriel’s Inferno Series #3)
Publisher: Penguin Berkley
From the author of the New York Times bestsellers Gabriel’s Rapture and Gabriel’s Inferno comes the epic conclusion to the captivating romantic trilogy.
Professor Gabriel Emerson has left his position at the University of Toronto to embark on a new life with his beloved Julianne. Together, he’s confident that they can face any challenge. And he’s eager to become a father.
But Julianne’s graduate program threatens Gabriel’s plans, as the pressures of being a student become all consuming. When she is given the honor of presenting an academic lecture at Oxford, Gabriel is forced to confront Julianne about the subject of her presentation—research that conflicts with his own. And in Oxford, several individuals from their past appear, including an old nemesis intent on humiliating Julia and exposing one of Gabriel’s darkest secrets.
In an effort to confront his remaining demons, Gabriel begins a quest to discover more about his biological parents, beginning a chain of events that has startling repercussions for himself, Julianne, and his hope of having a family.
So I have to start by saying this was a hard read for me. I loved the first two books. Like read in on sitting love. As with all books that I fall in love with…I wanted more. I will say that I was one of the masses that chanted more! So when Gabriel’s Redemption found its way to my Kindle I was oh so happy but for about the first 50% I was unsure. I did not devour Gabriel’s Redemption as I did the other two. This one really doesn’t present anything new in the way of plot but what we do get are final answers. 
Julianne’s struggle with motherhood/career is a huge part of this story. Fighting to make an independent mark in the world of Dante, Julianne has some hard choices to make. Can she have it all? Only time will tell. Julianne’s character is one that any woman can relate too. Do you leave behind what you worked so hard for something of equal importance? Can a woman have it all? Can the love of one man allow you the strength to have it all? Now we are talking about Gabriel Emerson! I will say that my love for this man was one thing I did not battle with in this book. Yet again Gabriel is loveable flawed perfection. 
Old faces appear once again and intertwine with the main story line of Julianne and Gabriel. We know that Paul will forever be in love with Julianne, Christa is a huge “see you next Tuesday”, and Simon and Natalie…well are in a class by themselves. As it was nice to get a little more info I felt that they were unneeded filler and created more questions. 
BUT all is not lost! The last half of this book made the read worth it. I could have lived with two Gabriel books and still could. With that said the last 30% gave me what I was looking for. It made up for that was lacking from the first half. So with that it was worth the read. I really do enjoy Julianne and Gabriel story. Their love is one for the ages. It was a pleasant surprise seeing how this love story played out and as I read the final words I was content with the journey that Sylvain Reynard took me on. There were some moments I was worried and in complete shock but that is what makes a great story. It was a hard earned 4 stars but as an over all trilogy and a rally at the 11th hour I say well done Mr. Reynard.           

I’m interested in the way literature can help us explore aspects of the human condition – particularly suffering, sex, love, faith, and redemption. My favourite stories are those in which a character takes a journey, either a physical journey to a new and exciting place, or a personal journey in which he or she learns something about himself/herself.

I’m also interested in how aesthetic elements such as art, architecture, and music can be used to tell a story or to illuminate the traits of a particular character. In my writing, I combine all of these elements with the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the transformative power of goodness.

I try to use my platform as an author to raise awareness about the following charities: Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation, WorldVision, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, and Covenant House. For more information, see my Twitter account.

Blog Tour: Remy by Katy Evans (Review, Excerpt and Giveaways)

Book Title: Remy
Author: Katy Evans
Date of Publication: November 26, 2013 
Publisher: Gallery Books
Blog Tour Hosted by: The SUBClub Books

Underground fighter Remington Tate is a mystery, even to himself. His mind is dark and light, complex and enlightening. At times his actions and moods are carefully measured, and at others, they spin out of control.
Through it all, there’s been one constant: wanting, needing, loving, and protecting Brooke Dumas. This is his story; from the first moment he laid eyes on her and knew, without a doubt, she would be the realest thing he’s ever had to fight for.

New York Times bestselling author Katy Evans expands upon the intense love story begun in Real–this time from Remington “Riptide” Tate’s point of view.

Underground fighter Remington Tate is a mystery, even to himself. His mind is dark and light, complex and enlightening. At times his actions and moods are carefully measured, and at others, they spin out of control.

Through it all, there’s been one constant: wanting, needing, loving, and protecting Brooke Dumas. This is his story; from the first moment he laid eyes on her and knew, without a doubt, she would be the realest thing he’s ever had to fight for.

“…the ring awaits. Twenty – three feet by twenty – three feet, four ropes parallel on each side, four fucking posts, and that’s about it.”

TKO! Third time is a charm! Remy! Remy! Remy!

“That ring is a home to me. When I’m not on it, I miss it. When I train, I think about it. Every step I take in its direction pumps me up and gets me going…It’s my ring. My crowd. My fight. My fucking night.”

Katy Evans has done a wonderful job of bringing this story full circle, or maybe full ring, by gifting the readers what we wanted most…more Remy. This beautifully complicated man could fill hundreds of pages. A stone cold stance, loaded iPod, one two punch, and an undeniable ache for his Little Firecracker, Brooke, confirm that the story is never complete till we read it through a male point of view.

“Mine. If I’d even known she existed before, I would have hunted her. I would have caught and conquered her.”

Learning what was inside the gentle giant gave this series a new twist. Like many other book boyfriend alpha males, Remy’s inner monologue provided a heart breaking rewind on the first two books. Although I knew the story I still enjoyed what Remy had to offer. It was a great recap with a little more. This series makes me want to pull out my Rocky box set! That moment when Rocky calls out for Adrian so reminds me of Remy and Brooke! True love will never suffer a TKO.

We go toe-to-toe. I feint and Hammer swings, opening his side. So I jab his ribs, feel the satisfying punch race up my arm, and we bounce apart. Hammer is stupid in the head. He falls for all my feints and never covers right. I ram him hard enough to make him bounce on the ropes and drop to his knees. He shakes his head and hops to his feet after a moment. I love this. My heart pumps slowly. My every muscle knows where to move, what to do, where to send my power—right from my center, up my chest, shoulder, down the length of my arms, to the tips of my fucking knuckles that hit with the force of a charging bull.
I take him down, and then I do the same with the next foe. And the next.
A powerful energy takes over me as I fight, and I fight knowing that Brooke Dumas watches me. If there’s anything in my head other than winning, it’s that I want her to think inside that lovely round head of hers that she has never, ever, seen a man like me.
By the time the tenth guy falls, sweat coats my chest, and as the ringmaster raises my arm, I’m anxious to see the look in her eyes. I want to see that she liked it, that she—like everyone else in this room—thinks I’m the shit. Our eyes lock, my gut goes hard and twisted and wild with desire, and I smile at her as I try to catch my breath.
When the ringmaster releases my arm, I cross the ring, jump over the cord, and land in the aisle, watching her part her lips in shock as I come over.
People go crazy when I go outside the ring, and they’re losing their shit right now.
The whole room screams with their applause and cheers. And I know they all can see where my gaze rests and where I’m headed.
“Kiss his heart out, woman!”
“You don’t deserve him, you bitch!”
“You go, girl!”
I smile down at this woman who has stolen my thoughts, and as I wonder if she wants me to, she looks pleadingly up at me, almost begging me not to kiss her here. My blood simmers as I remember her lips on mine, but it won’t be happening again.
Not until you’re ready, Brooke Dumas.
I bend to her and scent her hair, whispering at her temple, “Sit tight. I’ll send someone over for you.”
I back off before I lose it, and climbing up into the ring, I steal one last look at her. My chest does all kinds of strange things when our eyes lock.
“Riptide, people!” the announcer screams.
The yells feed me. I suck them in with a smile, full of pride and satisfaction. I can see in every one of these people’s eyes that I’m the man. But I want to see it in her eyes. That. I’m. The Man.
The man who wants to be hers.

Hey! I’m Katy Evans and I love family, books, life, and love. I’m married with two children and three dogs and spend my time baking, walking, writing, reading, and taking care of my family. Thank you for spending your time with me and picking up my story. I hope you had an amazing time with it, like I did. If you’d like to know more about books in progress, look me up on the Internet, I’d love to hear from you!
           
Promo: Real                 Review: Mine

Blog Tour: True Bliss by BJ Harvey (Review, Book Trailer, Excerpt, Playlist and Giveaways)

Title: TRUE BLISS (Bliss # 2)

Author: BJ Harvey
Published: November 25th
Organized by: The Book Avenue
She watched her best friend find her superhero.
Now she wants her turn.

Despite a run of bad dates with Mr. Wrong, Mr. Boring, Mr. Bad Breath, Mr. Grabby Hands, and even Mr. Say I Love You After One Date To Get Into Your Pants, Kate McGuinness is more determined than ever to find the one.

Having tried everything else, she turns to the internet in a last ditch attempt to find her elusive prince.
But Kate doesn’t want an everyday, run of the mill love.

She wants the kind of love that makes your heart skip a beat. The kind of love that makes you dance in the rain and bottle up the sunset. The once in a lifetime kind of love that authors write about, musicians sing about, and lovers dream about.

Could a certain police officer in training, who has come to her rescue in the past, be the one to swoop in and save her heart? 

What if the love Kate desperately seeks has been in front of her the whole time?

She just needs to open her eyes to see it… 

*Disclaimer: This book contains a hot as hell stripper with a penchant for public sex and exhibitionism who may or may not succeed in bringing out the inner firecracker in all of us. Oh, and don’t forget the batteries.*

Kate

“Girl’s night with Mac?” Nathan asks around a mouthful of his sandwich.

“Yep. Usually she’s at Daniel’s place or they’re at ours. We haven’t had a girls night in a long time.”

“Are handsome gay men with a love of rom coms and chocolate allowed at girls nights?”

“Maybe, depends what the handsome gay man is willing to bring to the table,” I say with a cheeky grin.

“Normally it would be two out of the three important c’s, cronuts and chardonnay, but lucky for you, it promises to be a very lucky night for me. I have a date with a six foot tall, hard as rock body, Puerto Rican man who has expressed an interest in all things Nate. So it looks like I might get a C of my own tonight.”

I clap my hands in glee like a barking seal at Sea World. “Nate, that’s great. That’s definitely a better offer than drinking with me while I gossip with my bestie.”

Nate is a man whore who seeks out fellow man whores. We bonded instantly over a love of hair and cronuts. Cronuts are the genius combination of a donut and a croissant filled with vanilla cream. Seriously, he introduced me to the glorious pastry and my ass has been cursing him ever since. Of course Nate says my ass has never looked so good, so I keep him around as my personal ass motivation coach. Every girl needs one of those.

“Yes well one can only live in hope that the promise of him is just as good as the reality. You’d know all about that, wouldn’t you?”

What is the worst part of waiting for the perfect love to come? Is it the constant state of never knowing? It’s painful to be in a state of wanting something you don’t have. But its even more painful that along side finding the right person comes a secret that will mess up your whole happily ever after.

Kate dreams to find her own Prince Charming. She has seen how her best friend find her super hero and now she’s constantly wishing to find her own. She’s been to lots of blind dates, even joined an online dating site, thinking that love might just be one-click away. Only to be broken hearted over and over again by people who lied about themselves and their intensions.

How far is she willing to go to find him?

I’ve always had a soft spot for Zander since book one. To refresh your memory, Zander is the super hot, sexy, stripper and one of Mac’s friends with benefits in Temporary Bliss. But he’s no longer into that game anymore. Just like Kate, he too wishes to find his own fairytale. Can Kate be the forever kind of girl that he’s been looking for?

“I want the kind of crazy love we’ve been warned about. The kind of love that makes your heart skip a beat. The kind of love that makes you want to dance in the rain and bottle up the sunset while screaming at the top of your lungs. The kind of love that authors write about, musicians sing about and lovers dream about. I want true, total body mind and soul, bliss.”

Its pretty evident why BJ Harvey’s books are so popular to her fans. She has a knack for telling a good story and her happy ever after ending always leaves a nice, warm feeling in a cool night.

Kate and Zander has a smoking chemistry – these two could spark a bush fire with their heated looks and what starts as a burning fire inevitably builds to a blazing passion. But will their baggage and guilt burn the flame too fast? BJ Harvey expertly develops the tension and the characters to leave readers wondering this very question. While the novel is light-hearted in many aspects, this novel touches on the complexities of relationships and friendships.

I liked the slow-burn romance because it gave me hope that after the happy ending, you that Kate and Zander is a couple that would make it work beyond the pages. This is a well-written novel that left me warm and satisfied inside, but wanting more.

I loved loved this book! Oh, and the bonus scene from our favorite couple in book 1, Mac And D, just made this book even more interesting and worth grabbing! If you are looking for a book that is light, fun with lots and lots of fireworks, True Bliss is something that should top your list.

  

Indie Author hailing from the most beautiful country in the world, New Zealand. 


Avid reader, television watcher, and facebooker. Having been writing off and on for a long time but started writing fiction in 2012. I love music too, like REALLY love music, if there isn’t music playing, something is wrong. And it’s a wide range of music too, I might surprise you. 


I’m a wife to one husband, mother of two gorgeous girls, self-employed doing communications and business consulting as well as studying accounting full time. 


Addicted to energy drinks, chocolate, cronuts, Vampire Diaries and pickles with mustard. 



OTHER WORKS OF BJ HARVEY
TEMPORARY BLISS (BLISS #1)
LOST IN DISTRACTION
LOST FOR YOU