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Random Help-Me-Get-Books-To-Book-Fiends Giveaway!

Saturday, November 30, 2013
I have a mystery box filled with 15 books/ARCs that I need to send to a book lover :)  Help me out and enter the contest below!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Sort Of Fairy Tale Ending (My Very UnFairy Tale Life #3) by Anna Staniszewski

Friday, November 29, 2013


Jenny's search for her parents leads her to Fairyland, a rundown amusement park filled with creepily happy fairies and disgruntled leprechauns. Despite the fairies' kindness, she knows they are keeping her parents from her. If only they would stop being so happy all the time-it's starting to weird her out! With the help of a fairy-boy and some rebellious leprechauns, Jenny finds a way to rescue her parents, but at the expense of putting all magical worlds in danger. Now Jenny must decide how far she is willing to go to put her family back together.

Goodreads Summary

Who doesn't want to search for their parents in Fairyland?  Richly described and somewhat exorbitant, Jenny searches through this world of chaos and unusual creatures. Her parents have disappeared in large part due to the happy little weird ones.  Is there a reason the creatures aren't letting her get to her parents?  

Jenny's character was well-developed and fun to read about.  I felt like a middle grade reader would have fun with and relate to Jenny.  I liked how the author included leprechauns-a mythical creature usually left out of books.  The setting was very fun to picture; the author spared no detail.  It was difficult to get to know Jenny's parents, they weren't featured much in the book.  Jenny's character was both funny and optimistic.  I liked how she had to debate whether or not to retrieve her parents because to get them back came at a greater cost than she realized.  If it was up to me, however, I would always retrieve my parents.  This book is recommended for middle grade readers.

4 Stars

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

A few Excerpts from Scorched by Mari Mancusi!

Wednesday, November 27, 2013


Discovering your story’s true beginning…
Sometimes the most difficult part about writing a book is figuring out where to begin. And sometimes authors like myself end up with several false starts before finally discovering the true first page of their book. In the original version of Scorched I started the story with Connor and Caleb at age ten, on the day their father was killed and their destinies changed forever.
But while it’s certainly a dramatic, important scene with tons of dragon action, it doesn’t drop the reader right into the real crux of the current conflict—the dragon egg arriving at the museum and the soldiers trying to steal it. Ultimately, I ended up using a shorter version of this as a flashback later on in the final book. But I do still have some affection for this extended peak into the boys’ family life, before it was torn apart by dragons.
The second deleted chapter shows exactly how much a story’s backdrop can change over the course of editing. In the original version, Trinity goes to an Upper East Side boarding school in New York City, not Texas. And she has a history of hearing voices in her head, rather than hearing the first voice in the museum just before the break-in. And lastly, Connor is already there—watching her, readying to make his move, instead of arriving four months late. In this version you get to meet Trinity’s best friend Caitlin, who is mentioned a lot in the final version of Scorched, but never made a real appearance on the page.  
It’s fun to look back at the story as it might have been. And I hope you enjoy the sneak peek into a writer’s head. Oh and by the way? At this stage the working title of the book was “Scales of Time.” (Which no one seemed to like but me! Sigh.)





Prologue
Year 100, Post-Scorch
           
            “RAWR!!!”
            Ten-year-old Caleb Johnson leapt from the pile of twisted iron wreckage he’d been hiding behind, arms outstretched and fingers curled into claws. “I am the dreaded ruby dragon, Epsilon!” he declared, a fierce expression on his sunburned, freckled face. “Beware or I will unleash my mighty flames upon you!” He roared again for emphasis.
            His identical twin brother, Connor, squealed into a mixture of delight and surprise as he expertly dodged his brother’s charge and took off running through the Pre-Flag building—down a rubble-filled corridor, beneath a blackened archway, leaping over crumbling cinderblocks and ducking rusty steel pipes, his brother hot on his heels. From above, orange rays of light from the setting sun leaked through cracks in the battered tin roof, effectively illuminating his path. 
            "You cannot get away!" Caleb cried from behind him. "No one can escape a dragon! RAWR!"
            Connor dead-ended in a long, chamber, filled with rotting wooden benches that faced some kind of elevated stage and dusty altar. The roof had held here, allowing him a better glimpse into what the room must have looked like, once upon a time. A church, his mother had told them when they’d taken shelter here earlier that day.
            Caleb burst into the room, his crooked teeth bared in a ferocious snarl. Connor laughed, running down the aisle and grabbing a metal scepter that lay abandoned on the ground near the altar. Turning on his brother, he wielded the metal object as if it were a mighty gun-blade.
            “I don’t need to escape,” he proclaimed bravely. “I am a Hunter. And I will take you down!” He leapt forward, ready to destroy the mighty dragon once and for--
            "Caleb? Connor? Get back here where I can see you." 
            Connor lowered his gun-blade. "Awh, Mom."
            "We're just having fun," Caleb added.
            Their mother poked her head into the chamber. “Well, dinner’s almost ready," she informed them. "You do want to eat, don't you?"
            It wasn’t really a question. Dropping his makeshift weapon, Conner scrambled after his mother and brother down the rubble-filled hall and into the stifling heat of a smaller entry room with four good walls, ceiling and door. His mother had swept out all the ashes when they'd first arrived and set up a makeshift camp—complete with cinderblock fire, on which she had set her large cast-iron pot. She looked over at her boys and smiled.
            "And how are my brave little Dragon Hunters?" she asked, a teasing look in her eyes.
            "Starving," Connor replied, peering into the cauldron where the soup bubbled and boiled. The smoke stung his eyes, but the smell more than made up for it.
            "Well, you're in luck. My snares caught a couple of rats today. So there's real meat in the soup." She grabbed two cracked ceramic bowls from one of the worn knapsacks she’d piled in a corner, ladling the cauldron's contents into them and handing them to her sons. Mom was an expert at making what Dad jokingly called "stone soup" with the scarce ingredients she could scavenge while camping out on the surface lands.
            The boys settled down on their sleeping mats and Connor brought the bowl to his mouth, burning his tongue on the steaming liquid. It was a bit bland--they'd run out of salt earlier that week--but it would fill his rumbling stomach and that was all that mattered in the end.
            A sudden noise outside made Mom leap to her feet, grabbing the knife from her belt and gripping it tightly in her hand. "Who's there?" she demanded, her voice almost fierce enough to disguise her fear. "We're armed and will not hesitate to defend ourselves."
            "Will you now, my love?" asked the tall, burly man sauntering through the door. The boys squealed in delight as they dropped their bowls to great their father. Mom set down her knife, letting out a sigh of relief, as Caleb and Connor fought to hug Dad first. He dropped down to their eye level and ruffled their matching brown heads of hair.
            "My boys!" he cried, kissing each of them on the cheek. "Have you been good? Keeping your mother safe for me?"
            "Yes, Sir," Connor assured him with a small salute. "She's all right. And there's rat in the soup tonight."
            Dad flashed a smile at Mom. "Rat in the soup," he repeated. "Well, this is a good night indeed then." He rose to his feet and walked over to his wife, wrapping his arms around her and squeezing her close.
            "Any luck today?" Connor heard her ask in a low voice.
            Dad released her from his embrace and walked over to the corner to pull off his dusty jacket and boots. "No," he replied. "But he's out there. I can smell his smoke in the air. And his shadow crossed the sun at least twice today. It's as if he's searching for something."
            Mom handed him a bowl of soup. "Forget him, then," she urged. "We've been out here thirty days now and he's not come down. We're out of food and it's not good for the boys to be out here so long."  
            "Is it really any better down below?" Dad asked her pointedly. "With no dragon heart, we have no money and no means to buy bread or meat. We'll end up living in Shanty Town. At least up here, we're free."
            "Free to get eaten by a dragon or murdered by wandering bandits."
            "But thirty pieces of silver, love! I slay this dragon and we'll live like kings and queens!" 
            "Please. I'd rather have you alive and well than be any kind of stuffy royalty."
            Dad chuckled at her grumpy face. "Oh, wife," he teased. "What did I do to deserve you?" He planted a kiss on her sunburned nose. "Okay, you win," he said. "Tomorrow when the sun rises, we'll head straight to the C Gate. Go underground and regroup. Maybe send the boys to school for a bit." He sat down on his mat and started sipping his soup.
            Connor and Caleb looked at one another with distaste. The last thing they wanted was to go below again. Where it was cramped and dirty and crowded with other people. They preferred it up here--a surface land filled with undiscovered treasures from the old world. Even if they did have to worry about--
            An inhuman howl pierced through the evening air.
            Dad was on his feet instantly. "It's him," he announced, looking over at Mom with an excited gleam in his eyes. "My last call must have reached him. He's coming in at last." 
            Mom swallowed hard, turning to the boys. "Go to the innermost chamber," she instructed, her voice thick with fear. "The one with the best roof. And wait there until you hear from us." She doused the fire and started grabbing their things, stuffing them into bags.
            “But Mom!” Connor protested. He didn't want to miss out on the action.
            “No backtalk. Do it now!” Her voice left no room for argument.
            The boys reluctantly turned and headed down the rubble-filled corridor, toward the large chamber. When they were out of sight of their parents, Caleb turned to Connor, his eyes shining with excitement. I know a place we can watch from, he told him, using their silent twin speak that no one else could hear. I found it earlier today. Mom will never know.
            Connor grinned. Major. Lead the way.
            He followed his brother through a now darkened corridor, through a caved-in wall and up a pile of rubble until they reached a broken glass window that led out onto the roof. Caleb squeezed his skinny body through and then turned, motioning for his brother to follow him.
            Connor looked reluctantly at the window. I don’t know… he hedged.
            Dad’s going to slay a dragon, Connor. You want to miss it?
            Connor shook his head. “No, of course not,” he said aloud, making up his mind and climbing through the window, careful not to cut himself on the glass. Without proper medicine, the smallest cut out here could be deadly. He followed his brother up the metal roof, slick from a recent rain, until they could peek over to the other side of the building, where Dad was readying for his fight.
            They looked at each other and grinned, then turned back to the scene. Dad had pulled his mighty gun-bade from its holster and readied his shield, the shiny metal gleaming in the dusky eve. As the boys watched, he scanned the darkened sky, eyes locking onto his target, far above. Connor followed his gaze. A Sapphire, he realized. Only half grown by the look of it. Should be an easy fight for an experienced Dragon Hunter like their father.
            "It's so beautiful," Caleb said with a dreamy sigh. "It's almost a shame Dad has to kill it."
            Connor shuddered, seeing nothing beautiful about the hard-scaled creature with razor sharp teeth and vacant eyes. The dragon seemed to dance through the sky, flittering about, toying with their father. Dad shrugged the gun-blade onto his shoulder and readied his first shot. Sucked in his breath, lining up his target. Then he pulled the trigger.
The dragon let out an angry screech as the bullet bounced harmlessly off its sapphire plated scales. He'd missed the sweet spot. The one soft scale under the left wing. Dad liked to brag about one-shot kills. But today evidently wasn't his day.
The creature released a stream of fire--scorching the ground mere feet from where their father had stood--Dad leaping backwards, just in time. Connor scooted further up on the roof, to get a better look, his heart feeling as if it would crack his ribs it was beating so hard.
Come on, Dad! he urged his father silently. Kill it!
Suddenly the dragon whipped its head around, stony eyes locking straight onto Connor as if it had heard his silent cry. Shock caused him to lose his balance on the slippery roof and a moment later he found himself tumbling down the other side, as the dragon's screech reverberated in his ears. He slammed onto the desert floor, a sharp pain shooting up his leg as his ankle crumpled and cracked.
"Connor!" Dad cried in a horrified voice. He started toward his son. But the dragon was too quick, coming down for a fast landing. Panicked, Connor tried to scramble away, but his foot dragged uselessly--his ankle likely broken.
He looked up and found himself face to face with the dragon, now standing only a few feet away, studying him with cold eyes. The creature pulled back its head, smoke billowing from its nostrils. Connor swallowed hard. One more moment and the fire would come. And it would be over forever. He squared his scrawny shoulders instead, ready to face death like a man and--
Suddenly Connor found himself being grabbed and thrown--like a sack full of hot potatoes. He hit the ground a few yards away with a hard thump, the pain shooting up his leg all over again. But it scarcely registered as he watched the dragon let loose a stream of fire--striking his father--who had dropped his shield and gun-blade to save his son--full force in the chest. For a moment, his dad's body just stood there, as if frozen in place while being engulfed in a sea of flames. Then he fell to the ground, screaming with agony.
"No!" Connor cried. In a fit of adrenaline-pumped rage, he dove at the discarded gun-blade. Gripping it in his hands, he turned to the creature, and, before the dragon could conjure up another blast, charged full force. Stabbing the gun-blade straight into the creature's soft spot, just as his father had taught him to do.
The dragon bellowed in agony, collapsing to the ground and writhing in pain as the blade pierced its unprotected heart. Connor met the creature's eyes with his own, staring it down with defiant rage. He yanked out the blood-soaked blade and stabbed the now helpless creature again. And again. And--
 “Connor, stop! He’s dead. The dragon’s dead!” He felt his mother’s arms grab him from behind and drag him away. He collapsed onto the ground, once again aware of the pain in his ankle. His mother dropped to her knees, searching his face with her own tear-stained one.
"Dad?" he managed to say, even though he already knew in his heart what her answer would be.
Mom shook her head. “I’m sorry Connor,” she said, tears streaming down her own cheeks. He buried his face in her chest, letting the grief take him. She held him close, rocking him gently, soothing him in soft whispers.
"I can't believe he's gone," he sobbed against her.
"I know sweetie," she murmured. "But he died a hero. Always remember that. And you're a hero, too. The way you killed that dragon..." He could feel the shake of her head. "You must have inherited your father's skills as a Dragon Hunter."
He shrugged, pulling away from her embrace and limping over to the dead dragon. He spit on the corpse, wishing there was some way to inflict even more pain and suffering on the creature who had taken his father away from them.
"I'll have my revenge on the rest of your kind," he whispered to the dragon. "I won't rest until dragons have been wiped out for good."

Chapter Two
New York City, Present Day

            "Hey, don't look now, but that vampire over there is staring at you again."
            Sixteen-year-old Trinity Brown set down her sandwich and spun in the direction her best friend, Caitlin Curry was gazing, across the high school cafeteria. Caitlin swatted her arm.
            "I said don't look. Jeez!"
            But it was too late and beyond the trays of mystery meat and half-eaten slices of pizza, Trin found herself locking eyes with the "vampire" in question, who was lounging a few tables away and indeed staring at her intently--not even having the decency to look away when caught in the act. With tousled brown hair, pale white skin and eyes rimmed in black kohl, she had to admit, he did kind of resemble a creature of the night and his dark gaze sent shivers down her spine. Flushed, she hurriedly dropped her eyes and turned back to her friend.
            "That's not a vampire," she replied, disguising her sudden unease with a loud, barking laugh. "There’s not a single sparkle on him.” 
            They erupted into giggles, breaking the spell and Caitlin, seemingly satisfied, dug into her cafeteria special--Salisbury steak. It was hard to fathom how the skinny girl wasn't three-hundred pounds, the way she wolfed down her food. Trin reached for her own tofu and cheese sandwich that her grandfather had bagged her that morning and took a bite.
            But today, her favorite sandwich tasted more like cardboard, and she was unable to shake feeling of the boy's stare, scorching her backside with the intensity of a thousand suns. Annoyed, she tossed the sandwich back on the table.
            "What?" Caitlin asked, her mouth full of mashed potato. It was always a surprise to her when people turned down food. Even if it was only tofu.
            Trin frowned. "He's still staring." She wasn't sure how she could tell, sitting with her back to him and all, but somehow she knew it to be true. 
            "He's been staring at you all week, girl," Caitlin reminded her. She strained her neck to get another peek. "Don't worry--he looks harmless. Cute, even, if only he got rid of that eyeliner and made friends with a tanning bed. Looks to me like Mr. Goth hasn't seen the sun in the last sixteen years."

            "So who is he again?" Trin asked. Caitlin was a walking Wikipedia when it came to the student body. Especially when it came to boys. 

SIMON & SCHUSTER IMPRINT ANNOUNCES FANTASY SERIES BY KEN LIU AS FIRST ACQUISITION

Tuesday, November 26, 2013


New York, NY, 2013 ¾ Simon & Schuster has acquired Ken Liu’s debut fantasy series, The Dandelion Dynasty, as the first project for its new genre imprint for all ages.

The Dandelion Dynasty follows Kuni Garu, a charming bandit, and Mata Zyndu, the son of a deposed duke. At first, the two seem like polar opposites. Yet, in the uprising against the emperor, they quickly become the best of friends after a series of adventures. The scope of the series is epic, involving gods, massive armies, diverse cultures, multiple plotlines, numerous characters, politics, war, courtly intrigue, and love.

Ken Liu is one of the hottest writers in the field, garnering multiple awards for his short stories, including “The Paper Menagerie,” the only story ever to have been awarded the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Awards. “His novels are highly anticipated, and I'm thrilled to be able to work with Ken and his myriad talents at the launch of his publishing career with this series, which exemplifies the scope of our debut list. It’s kismet,” says executive editor Joe Monti.

“I’m incredibly excited to embark on my novel career with one of the greatest publishers in the world as my partner,” says Ken Liu. “I can’t wait to share this world that has lived only in my mind with readers.”

Joe Monti acquired North American rights to three books, a short story collection, and audio rights via agent Russell Galen at Scovil Galen Ghosh Literary Agency, Inc.

ABOUT SIMON & SCHUSTER:
Simon & Schuster, a part of the CBS Corporation, is a global leader in the field of general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for consumers of all ages, across all printed, electronic, and audio formats. Its divisions include Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing, Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, Simon & Schuster Audio, Simon & Schuster Digital and international companies in Australia, Canada, India and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.simonandschuster.com.

It's a Crisis! Now What?

Monday, November 25, 2013


No tourism entity is immune from crises: natural disasters, food poisoning, epidemics, plane crashes, negative legislation, terrorism and much more. While most organizations in the tourism and hospitality industry know they need a crisis communications plan, many believe it will be too complicated and time-consuming to create. It's a crisis! NOW what? solves that dilemma, with four simple steps to create a crisis communications plan, and seven basic principles for handling communications after any crisis. Complemented by a range of scenarios to challenge communicators - and space to record the reader's "nightmare scenario," this compact handbook will be an essential addition to every tourism professional's bookshelf.

Amazon Summary


There are defining moments in life where something rips through our existence and turns the world into utter chaos. This world experiences devastating tornadoes, terrorist attacks, stock market crashes, and area forest fires on a regular basis and a good plan of action is a staple for recovery from these horrifying events. Anticipating possible chrisis', knowing your resources, creating a game plan, and executing that plan with laser precision are vital steps in successfully preventing pandemonium from spreading.
Peggy R. Brendel does this and more in "It's A Crisis! Now What?" This guidebook takes you through the step by step process of assessing your resources and building a fool proof plan by examining past events and assessing the details of the situation. Crisis like the SARS epidemic, the 2001 September 11 terrorist attacks, and Hurricane Katrina are discussed and their successful team responses are brought to light. What makes this book a great resource for you and your team is the ample sections provided with space for notes and comments at the end of each section. It allows you to dig deep into the meat of the issues and ideas presented and to discuss what you think works and what plans could possibly be a dud in practice. Furthermore, there is a section in the back where you write out your "worst case scenario," and walk through the steps toward executing a proper crisis communication plan. This is an interesting read with a lot of great information to consider and is a great addition to anyone's library for reference.

*Reviewed by Chris*

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

Supernatural Six Giveaway Promotion!

Sunday, November 24, 2013
Have Christmas shopping on the brain? (wait!! Did I just say Christmas?) How's $500 shopping spree sound? You're just in luck. The authors of Supernatural Six are offering a deal you don't want to miss.  Help Supernatural Six hit the bestsellers lists and earn a chance to win BIG!

If Supernatural Six hits the top 500 on Amazon and 1000 on B&N, the prize jumps to $100!

If Supernatural Six hits the top 100 on Amazon and 500 on B&N, the prize jumps to $250!

If Supernatural Six hits the top 20 of Amazon and top 50 of B&N, the prize jumps to $500!

What do you have to do to get in on the money? Blog, tweet, post, wave a sign... okay, you don't need to wave a sign. Just get the word out, and keep track on the rafflecopter entry below! One lucky winner will have a wonderful season this year!



Secret powers, genies, mermaids, angels, vampires and demons. There’s something for every paranormal enthusiast. Supernatural Six brings you six novels from six authors who know how to raise the stakes and tame the darkness.

Special sale price of only $0.99
Regular price for all these stories is $16.79, you save $15.80

a Rafflecopter giveaway TEXT: Have Christmas shopping on the brain? (wait!! Did I just say Christmas?) How's $500 shopping spree sound? You're just in luck. The authors of Supernatural Six are offering a deal you don't want to miss. Help Supernatural Six hit the bestsellers lists and earn a chance to win BIG! If Supernatural Six hits the top 500 on Amazon and 1000 on B&N, the prize jumps to $100! If Supernatural Six hits the top 100 on Amazon and 500 on B&N, the prize jumps to $250! If Supernatural Six hits the top 20 of Amazon and top 50 of B&N, the prize jumps to $500! What do you have to do to get in on the money? Blog, tweet, post, wave a sign... okay, you don't need to wave a sign. Just get the word out, and keep track on the rafflecopter entry below! One lucky winner will have a wonderful season this year! AMAZON -- NOOK -- ITUNES -- KOBO Secret powers, genies, mermaids, angels, vampires and demons. There’s something for every paranormal enthusiast. Supernatural Six brings you six novels from six authors who know how to raise the stakes and tame the darkness. Special sale price of only $0.99 Regular price for all these stories is $16.79, you save $15.80 a Rafflecopter giveaway COVER IMAGES: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7lMYeG6wPcwqRHNoMcXtNSr3TlNePYzCaUodPsdToSQjyfxS7KMKrIvVP9Jef8qsPRxg65Ndb7J3dRVg6KXBbjqDZ0FBy3s-qG9bndscIZB36zr6BDdNBKSCKVDYoGe7mOMiC3JEIk4/s1600/Su pernaturalSix_BoxSet.jpg

Sweet Dreams by Carla Stewart



It's 1962, and Dusty Fairchild, daughter of a self-made millionaire and oilman, wants to go to college. Instead she is sent to a private finishing school in East Texas. Although she's never wanted for material possessions, Dusty longs for independence and adventure. The only upside to attending Miss Fontaine's is having her cousin and best childhood friend, Paisley, join her. Paisley has traveled the country with her bohemian mother, but she dreams of putting down roots and living a settled life. At Miss Fontaine's, their loyalty to each other binds them, but when they fall in love with the same handsome young man, their relationship teeters on shaky ground. Only after a tragic accident do they learn where their true hearts-and dreams-lie.

Goodreads Summary


I liked this book because it reminded me of summer and I've had nothing but cold weather lately.  Dusty, the main character, is a wealthy girl with a single dream-to go to college.  Instead of realizing her dream, she has to go to a finishing school with her cousin Paisley.  I thought that this book was applicable to this time because it addresses the problems of tensions between people of different races and backgrounds.  Dusty is super wealthy, but not everyone is so lucky.  I liked seeing how her character handled this.

Dusty was a good character.  Even though she is very wealthy, I didn't think that she was completely hard to relate to.  Paisley's character was probably more mainstream.  I liked her attitude.  The other characters were all different and fascinating in other ways.  Overall, I think adult readers will enjoy this book.

4 Stars


This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

Kindle Fire HD raffle for Charity!

Thursday, November 21, 2013
“I'm very polite by nature, even the voices in my head let each other finish their sentences.” – from Completely Flappable
Don’t you just hate it when you have a thousand little thoughts rattling around your brain, good for nothing but keeping you up at night? Ideas, worries, mental reminders for the next day? My voices can get pretty insistent, and mostly this is a nuisance, but sometimes it’s okay, when there’s a story idea or two among the ramblings. And rarely, very rarely, I get what I think is a really good idea, but one that I don't know what to do with. For instance, a while ago it occurred to me that it’s probably not governments or big corporations that wield the world’s greatest financial power. I think it’s us. All the little people together. Then I started wondering what could happen if we all decided to set 1 month of our incomes aside towards fixing this place up a bit. How many of the world’s problems could we actually solve permanently? Half of them, maybe? All of them? That's a pretty cool picture. But I’m a pretty dim light when it comes to implementing even small ideas, never mind the big ones. So I’m not sure how to get that ball rolling (heck, I'm not even sure where we keep the balls). But I can certainly start with myself. That’s easy enough (I’ve been in close contact with myself for years; I didn't have much trouble convincing myself.) So, this December, all proceeds of all my novels will go to Child Helpline International. The CHI is pretty cool because they support toll-free child helplines worldwide and they help highlight gaps in child protection systems. They do all this on donations (click the image below for more information.)
But what does all this have to do with you? Well, I'm raffling off some prizes and giving out some freebees to boost the donation (expenses out of my own pocket, not the donation :P ) So what's in it for you, besides that warm, fuzzy feeling you'll get knowing the Xmas presents you’re buying include an automatic donation? Well, how about I give you the new edition to the award winning No Hope for Gomez saga completely free?
And how about a Kindle Fire HD raffle ticket with every purchase while we’re at it?
Simply forward your receipt emails to nohopeforgomez@gmail.com to participate. And now, on to the pitch. This is the bit where I try to convince you, using only my words, that my novels don’t suck (or at least, not too much.) That they won’t only tickle your brain, but they’ll actually make your life better, if only marginally. That they are, in fact, worthy donation material. Here goes (fingers crossed)...
Paper: $6.08 Kindle:$2.99 (uk paper, kindle)

No Hope for Gomez!

Winner of the Forewords Book of the Year Awards, featured on Kirkus Best Indie List 2011, IBA and USA Book News Award nominee.
It's the age-old tale:   Boy meets girl.   Boy stalks girl.   Girl already has a stalker.   Boy becomes her stalker-stalker. We've seen it all before, many times, but this time it's different. If only slightly.
"Extremely witty writing containing keen insights into human nature." --California Chronicle "Challenges the way we think about, and interact with, the world around us." --Kirkus Discoveries "The antics in this book will leave the reader laughing. Graham Parke is a genius."--Reader's Favorite

Unspent Time

Warning: reading this novel may make you more attractive and elevate your random luck by about 9.332%*
(*These statements have not been evaluated by anyone of consequence)
Permeating the cracks between the past and the present is the realm of Unspent Time. Time that was allotted but never spent. In this realm we find the stories that could have been true. Such as the story of the designer of the color scheme used inside your shoe, or the story of Goki Feng Ho: the Chinese art of decoding the secret meaning of car license plates.
Paper: $6.08 Kindle:$2.99 ePub : $2.99 (uk paper, kindle)
“Captivating. Each story fired up my imagination.” – Alan H. Jordan, author. "Delightfully mad. Graham's vibrant characters shine from the first page." --Tahlia Newland, author.
Free with this event

Completely Flappable

“He’s completely flappable!” “Don’t you mean he’s unflappable?” “Not really. He can very easily be flapped.”
Gomez has never been on a date. In his 27 years on the planet he’s never been able to quite close the deal. For some reason, circumstances always conspire to make his meet-ups with women less than official dates. But now a blond German girl with freckles has moved into his building and he decides it’s time to get his act together.
If you've read this far, you're already my hero ;) I hope you like my idea enough to join me in this fun adventure. Let's see how much we can raise this Xmas ;) Kind regards, Graham Parke

A Darkness Strange and Lovely by Susan Dennard

Following an all-out battle with the walking Dead, the Spirit Hunters have fled Philadelphia, leaving Eleanor alone to cope with the devastating aftermath. But there’s more trouble ahead—the evil necromancer Marcus has returned, and his diabolical advances have Eleanor escaping to Paris to seek the help of Joseph, Jie, and the infuriatingly handsome Daniel once again. When she arrives, however, she finds a whole new darkness lurking in this City of Light. As harrowing events unfold, Eleanor is forced to make a deadly decision that will mean life or death for everyone.

Goodreads Summary


I couldn't wait for this novel as I loved the first in the series so much!  Marcus has returned with more trouble for Eleanor.  She has to run to try to escape him and regroup.  Along the way, Eleanor meets someone who changes her way of thinking about necromancers.  The  character the reader meets who changes Eleanor is fascinating...he knew her late brother Elijah and has plenty to tell her.  As soon as Ellie reunites with her Spirit Hunters, she feels more powerful and immediately begins making "silly" decisions.

I do like Ellie's character, but she makes me want to smack my head when I read about her.  She is very headstrong and brave.  It's not the end of the world, but she definitely doesn't think before she acts.  I didn't think much of Ollie, Elijah's friend.  He didn't seem very trustworthy to me and I often felt like he was holding back information.  This book is a continuation from the first and just as good.  I recommend this book to young adult/teens.

3 1/2 Stars

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

Reboot by Amy Tintera


Five years ago, Wren Connolly was shot three times in the chest. After 178 minutes she came back as a Reboot: stronger, faster, able to heal, and less emotional. The longer Reboots are dead, the less human they are when they return. Wren 178 is the deadliest Reboot in the Republic of Texas. Now seventeen years old, she serves as a soldier for HARC (Human Advancement and Repopulation Corporation).

Wren’s favorite part of the job is training new Reboots, but her latest newbie is the worst she’s ever seen. As a 22, Callum Reyes is practically human. His reflexes are too slow, he’s always asking questions, and his ever-present smile is freaking her out. Yet there’s something about him she can’t ignore. When Callum refuses to follow an order, Wren is given one last chance to get him in line—or she’ll have to eliminate him. Wren has never disobeyed before and knows if she does, she’ll be eliminated, too. But she has also never felt as alive as she does around Callum.

The perfect soldier is done taking orders.

Goodreads Summary

A Little Too Hot-Cover Reveal and Giveaway!


From USA Today bestselling author Lisa Desrochers, comes the third book in her sizzling New Adult series. If you play with fire… Tossed out of college and cut off by her parents, Samantha West is in pretty dire straits. So when her rocker best friend hooks her up with a job dancing at a gentlemen’s club, who is she to turn it down? Plus, there are rules to dancing at Benny’s: No touching, keep your clothes on at all times, and never get closer than three feet. Unfortunately for Sam, her first private client makes her want to break every single one of them. Harrison Yates is scorching hot, but he’s got a past that involves being left at the altar not too long ago. Sam is determined to make him forget about his ex, but when she makes her move, it flings her life into a spiral of chaos she never saw coming. Because Harrison Yates isn’t who he seems to be. And his secret will probably get her killed. Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway Buy Links

Book Swap?

Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Hey!

Is there anyone who would want to swap for these books?  I'm really looking for Infinite by Jodi Meadows or Avalon Arnett.









Champion Chat with Marie Lu (she's wonderful! You have to attend :D)

Ask a question using the hashtag #ChampionChat and enter to win a SIGNED CHAMPION BOX SET!

Single Effort by Joe Keller

Whether you're single by choice or by chance, it's wildly different than living with a partner. Most books on the subject read like cheerleading for cave-dwellers or sex guides for the hopelessly hapless. Why can't someone just tell it like it is? Joe Keller does just that. From food to fun, and finance to romance, Single Effort delivers clear, real-world advice to help you live a dynamic, successful life as a single guy. Heartfelt, funny, and always practical, Single Effort is a must-read for single guys everywhere. It's also perfect for anyone (male or female, single or not) in search of unique dating and lifestyle ideas or a more fulfilling life. Destined to become a classic, this indispensable guide will change how you think about being single and help you find the life and love you seek.

Goodreads Summary


In this world today divorce, separation, and breakups are all too common and many are left lost with a lack of direction in the wake of these mishaps. Many people get stuck in the same rut repeating the same mistakes again and again year after year only to end up unsuccessful in finding a mate. When Joe Keller went through his divorce from what he thought was a successful marriage, he decided that he wanted things to be different in a good way the next time around.He decided to share his experiences with the rest of the "lost" males of today's society in the book "Single Effort."
The premise is simple and very practical yet Keller succeeds in packing this "single man's guidebook" with loads of beneficial information and a wide breadth of topics. This book covers everything from figuring out where you went wrong leading up to your divorce to new dating tactics to make sure that you are representing the best version of yourself. Another great topic that is discussed is what women are noticing when you show up to that vital first date. Many things are addressed from your wardrobe choice, conversation topics to avoid, and even grooming trends. Yes, there is even a section that goes into properly setting up an online dating profile. All in all, this guidebook covers some very useful topics and is a great reference for single men of all walks of life.

4 Stars

*Reviewed by Chris*


This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

My Answer To Jodi Meadows' Anniversary Giveaway!

I was lucky enough to go on adventures most of my life.  My parents constantly had us either in the back of a car, train, or airplane.  They really wanted my sister and I to see the world-but for now...they'd settle for the states and Canada.

How Not to Be a Dick: An Everyday Etiquette Guide by Meghan Doherty


On the one hand, nobody wants to be a dick. On the other hand, dicks are everywhere! They cut in line, talk behind our backs, recline into our seats, and even have the power to morph into trolls online. Their powers are impressive, but with a little foresight and thoughtfulness, we can take a stand against dickishness today. "How Not to Be a Dick" is packed with honest and straightforward advice, but it also includes playful illustrations showing two well-meaning (but not always well behaved) young people as they confront moments of potential dickishness in their everyday lives. Sometimes they falter, sometimes they triumph, but they always seek to find a better way. And with their help, you can too.

Goodreads Summary

Harper News!

Take a look at 15 Life Lessons Learned from Narnia!  Buzzfeed is always worth reading :D!

The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider

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Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.

But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes?

Robyn Schneider’s The Beginning of Everything is a lyrical, witty, and heart-wrenching novel about how difficult it is to play the part that people expect, and how new beginnings can stem from abrupt and tragic endings.


Goodreads Summary

The Unsinkable Herr Goering by Ian Cassidy

Contrary to what the so-called history books tell you, Hermann Goering, Hitler's Deputy, Head of the Luftwaffe and second most powerful man in Nazi Germany, did not leave this world courtesy of a cyanide tablet secreted in the heel of his jackboot minutes before his appointment with the hangman. The truth is far more bizarre. THE UNSINKABLE HERR GOERING is a monumental debut novel by Ian Cassidy. It follows Goering, a man blindsided by hubris, on his attempted escape - from both Germany as well as from the Allies - and the inept men of mettle who put a stop to it. It is a hilariously depraved story of of villainous villains, slightly less villainous heroes, bad behavior (and even worse beer), and uncomfortable underwear. Not since A Confederacy of Dunces has a book brought to life such audaciously flawed characters. It gets so much wrong, yet so much right.

The One Good Thing by Kevin Alan Milne


For as long as Halley Steen has known her husband Nathan, he has carried a handful of stones in his pocket. Each day he uses those stones to remind him to follow the Golden Rule, moving a stone from one pocket to the other with each act of kindness. So it's not unusual that Nathan stops to help a stranger on the side of the highway while on his way to his son's football game one Friday evening. But that one act will change all of their lives forever, when a car hydroplanes off the road, killing Nathan instantly.

As Halley and her children Ty and Alice struggle with their grief, Nathan's spiritual legacy lives on. A Facebook page appears, where countless stories about Nathan's selfless acts are shared. But among them is one that stands out, from a woman who says that Nathan saved her life. Neither Halley nor her children have ever heard of Madeline Zuckerman. But soon Halley discovers years of e-mails from this woman to her husband on his computer that refer to "our little girl." How could her husband have kept the secret of this other child for their entire marriage? Why had he lied to her? Was he not the man she thought he was?

Only thirteen-year-old Alice maintains unwavering faith in her father. She knows there's an explanation. When she sets out to find Madeline and learn the truth, she will start to unravel the complex story of The One Good Thing Nathan Steen did that had the greatest impact of all. 

Goodreads Summary

Thanksgiving Giveaway!

Friday, November 15, 2013
Win 15 Young Adult/Teen ARCs!
A few of the books you can win (I will add more as well):



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Gratitude Giveaway Hop!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

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Staying Warm...or Keeping Cold Giveaway Hop!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013




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Win 6 ARCs at this stop :) I will add the ARCs to the post as the more popular titles trickle in.


Bittersweet Magic Blast and Giveaway!

Monday, November 11, 2013

Edge, a digital-first single-title romance line from Entangled Publishing, takes its lead from our popular Select imprint but gives its novels an edge in the marketplace by bringing great stories to readers at reasonable prices in a quick-and-easy way. Whether sexy or sweet, traditional romance or love and lust with a women’s fiction bent, at the center of every Edge book is heart. From Urban Fantasy to Contemporary Romance to Science Fiction Romance, Edge has a book for all romance readers—and right at their fingertips! As they say, all’s fair in love and war. To find out more about our titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books are coming next, visit the Entangled website, follow us on Twitter, and like our Facebook page.

Today I'm happy to be featuring Bittersweet Magic by Nina Croft! This followup to Bittersweet Blood is sure to please, but don't worry, it can easily be read as stand alone. Nina Croft's stories are Out of This World, so you won't want to miss this one!

Roz has been indebted to the demon Asmodai for five hundred years, and her freedom is just around the corner. All she has to do is complete one last task for him—obtain a key that had been hidden in a church centuries ago.

Piers, the Head of the Order and an ancient vampire, is intrigued by the woman who comes to him for help. She’s beautiful and seemingly kind, but she’s hiding something. And he’ll find out who she is and what she really wants once he uses his power to get inside her head. But Piers has no idea that Roz is immune to his mind-control...or that he is simply a pawn in her dangerous mission for freedom. 

Amazon     Barnes & Noble


Author info:


Nina Croft grew up in the north of England. After training as an accountant, she spent four years working as a volunteer in Zambia, which left her with a love of the sun and a dislike of nine-to-five work. She then spent a number of years mixing travel (whenever possible) with work (whenever necessary) but has now settled down to a life of writing and picking almonds on a remote farm in the mountains of southern Spain.

Nina's writing mixes romance with elements of paranormal and science fiction.

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