Thursday, January 31, 2013

Printed Books Giveaway Hop


Printed Books Giveaway Hop
February 1st to 7th
 Hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer


In celebration of the release of my newest novel Rapunzel Untangled . I'm giving away a print copy of it which is scheduled to release February 12. I will be sending out the print copy to the lucky winner after it releases. Good luck!
 

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Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Fractured Soul Blog Tour








Llona will do whatever it takes to protect her new found friends and home, but the dark plot threatening Lucent Academy, a school that’s supposed to be a safe place for Auras, may be too powerful for even Llona to defeat. This fast-paced tale of love, loyalty, and overcoming the darkness will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page!


My Review of Fractured Soul by Rachel McClellan

I have to begin by telling you I’m a fan of the prequel to this book, Fractured Light, so when Rachel asked me to review Fractured Soul for an endorsement, I jumped at the chance just so I could read it before it was released. Good decision on my part.
It isn’t often that a sequel comes along that’s even better than the original, but Rachel managed to do that with this book. I read the entire book in a couple of days, sneaking it in between when I was supposed to be working. I couldn’t wait to read the next chapter, and was disappointed when it ended. Not because I was disappointed in the ending but because I wanted more pages to read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

In Fractured Soul, Llona and May decide to attend Lucent Academy, and idea presented to them in the first book by Aunt Sophie. Lucent Academy is supposed to be a safe haven for girls with gifts like Llona and May, but things aren’t always what they seem. Lucent Academy is under attack from some evil forces that desire the destruction of the Auras. In the midst of that, Llona is experiencing some dark feelings that go against the light. What seems like normal teen rebellion turns out to be something that threatens her very soul.

I’m not going to give away any more of the story than that, other than to say that not only do the necessary characters play a part (helllllo, Christian!) but that new characters are also introduced that I hope to see plenty more of in the next book. In fact, I’d like to see an entire book based on Liam and how he came to be.

Fractured Soul is a brilliant sequel, exceeding even the remarkable first book in the series. Fast paced, exciting, and intriguing, it kept me guessing until the very last page what would happen next. The ending was shocking and heartbreaking, but absolutely perfect as a lead-in to the next book. Fractured Soul will haunt your every waking moment between the times you’re reading it, and stay with you long after you’ve finished. It’s an amazingly well written and engrossing story that I highly recommend—after you’ve read the first one, of course.
 
Don't forget to jump down to the bottom and enter to win a copy of Fractured Soul!
What others are saying:
“I love these books! A kick-butt heroine and a hottie love interest, with a refreshingly original concept. Be prepared—once you start, these are hard to put down.”
Paula Cotton, book reviewer at ReadingLark.blogspot.com
 
 
About the Author
Rachel McClellan was born and raised in Idaho, a place secretly known for its supernatural creatures. When she's not in her writing lair, she's partying with her husband and four crazy, yet lovable, children. Rachel's love for storytelling began as a child when the moon first possessed the night. For when the lights went out, her imagination painted a whole new world. And what a scary world it was...
 
 
Where to find Rachel:
 

 

 
Purchase Fractured Soul at
 
Haven't Read the First Book? Buy Fractured Light at
 
Now, enter to win a copy of Fractured Soul
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Monday, January 28, 2013

Young Adult Giveaway Hop



Young Adult Giveaway Hop

January 29th - February 4th

Co-hosted by BookLove101 and IAmAReaderNotAWriter

As both a writer and fan of young adult books, I'm pretty excited about this giveaway. Because I couldn't possibly narrow it down to just one book I want to give away, I decided instead to have the prize be an Amazon giftcard so that you can choose from any of the great books below, or your own favorite young adult book. These books below are just some of my most recent favorite young adult books, purely my opinion and nothing else - and in no parituclar order. It would be impossible for me to put them in a "favorite" order. So, without further ado, here are some of my recent great finds in this great genre.
 
Dissidence by Jamie Canosa: This is truly a great book from one of my favorite authors. I think Jamie is supremely talented, and this dystopian novel is one of the best I've read. Her main character is smart, sarcastic, and tough. The two guys she has to choose from are both completely appealing in completely different ways.
 
Souls in Peril by Sherry Gammon: I fell in love with this book the first time I read it. Which is kind of odd for me since I'm usually a sucker for more romantic stories. Still, there was something so fantastic about Max and JD and the relationship they are forced into forging. Their story is both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time.
 
Flat Out Love by Jessica Park: Another book with quirky characters who wormed their way into my heart. Matt became an immediate favorite character of mine because of his geekiness. His t-shirts are to be envied. Little Celeste is someone I want to hang out with, and Julie was pretty cool. A definite must-read.
 
Slammed by Colleen Hoover: I admit I debated about putting this one on here. It's not one of my most favorite books, but still, I enjoyed it enough to feel it merits mention. One of the things I loved most about this book is the quirky (notice a theme here?) little bothers of Layken and Will. Adorable. Cute love story with some fun poetry thrown in.
 
Our Own Worst Enemies by Jamie Canosa: I know, this is the second book of Jamie's I've mentioned, but I'm completely in love with this one. It's a short story from the Screams in the Night anthology. It's a love story and a zombie story (both of which I'm a fan). But don't presume to think you have any idea how this one goes or ends. You don't. This is probably the best short story I've ever read. I seriously love it.
 
Insight by Jolene Perry: This is a great story about a girl named Micah who's afraid to touch others because of the visions she gets when she does. She's sure she's always going to be alone until she meets the charming Landon. Not just a sweet love story, this has voodoo and shadows and other menacing things. Can't wait for the sequel!

Fractured Soul by Rachel McClellan: This one is a sequel (to Fractured Light). I really, really liked the first book. This sequel is even better. Llona is back, as is (sigh) Christian. *Pause while I get dreamy over Christian.* Okay, I'm back. I think I like this one better because Llona knows who and what she is a little better and comes across stronger. Fantastic read.
 
The Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson: This one had to be included because it's probably my all-time favorite series of YA paranormal/dystopian novels. Max is another wonderfully sarcastic chick who's tough as nails. Fang is another boy to completely sigh over (how could he be anything but with a name like that?). A few annoyances here and there in the series when Max and Fang are apart, but otherwise well worth the investment - both time and money - to read.
 
Unlocked: A Love Story by Karen Kingsbury: The hero of this particular book happens to be autistic - severely autistic. As in can't-communicate-at-all autistic. And yet, it's a love story as the title claims between Holden and his childhood friend, Ella. Very sweet, honest, and unforgettable book.
 
What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor: Heartbreaking story of the consequences of teenage drunk driving made sweet by the many people who rally around Jake - including his longtime crush Samantha. Definitely makes you think twice about being grateful for all the people you have in your own life.
 
Alright, I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you'd like to get to the good stuff, like the contest. If you can order from Amazon.com, you can enter. I'll email the winner the gift card. I hope you check out these books (links on the titles and at the bottom of the Rafflecopter), and whether you choose one (or a few) of these with your card, or an entirely different YA book, I wish you happy reading!

Oh, and don't forget to jump down to the Linky list to win more great YA prizes on the other blogs!
 
 
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Jack Templar Monster Hunter Book Blast


Jack Templar: Monster Hunter

Orphan Jack Templar has no memory of his parents and only the smallest details from his Aunt Sophie about how they died. The day before Jack's fourteenth birthday, things start to change for him. At first it's great: A sudden new strength helps him defend his nose-picking friend "T-Rex" from the school bully, and even his crush, Cindy Adams, takes notice. But then a mysterious girl named Eva arrives and tells him two facts that will change his life forever. First, that he's the descendent of a long line of monster hunters and he's destined to be in the family business. Second, that there's a truce between man and monster that children are off-limits...until their fourteenth birthday! Jack has only one day before hundreds of monsters will descend on his little town of Sunnyvale and try to kill him.

As if that weren't enough, things get even more complicated when Jack discovers that the Lord of the Creach (as the monsters are collectively known) holds a personal grudge against him and will do anything to see that Jack has a slow and painful death. To stay alive and save his friends, Jack will have to battle werewolves, vampires, harpies, trolls, zombies and more. But perhaps the most dangerous thing he must face is the truth about his past. Why do the other hunters call him the last Templar? Why do they whisper that he may be the "One?" Why do the monsters want him dead so badly? Even as these questions plague him, he quickly discovers survival is his new full-time job and that in the world of monster hunters, nothing is really what it seems.



Author Jeff Gunhus

Jeff Gunhus grew up in Cyprus, Greece, and Saudi Arabia where there was a distinct lack of television. He quickly found books were the gateway to incredible adventures, fascinating characters and unbelievable discoveries. Now, with five children of his own (all who watch too much television, in his opinion), he has enjoyed revisiting his old books and reliving those adventures all over again.





Kirkus Reviews

"Gunhus brings young readers a monster-filled romp to read at their own risk. In the first few pages, Jack, the storyteller and main character, warns readers not to read about these real-world monsters that would seem to only exist in fiction. The tone is set--sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek and likable; rooting for Jack is easy...Gunhus masterfully introduces fully realized characters with whom readers can connect almost instantly. The pacing is quick but not rushed, and events seamlessly progress, complete with action, cliff-hangers and surprise reveals. "

Amazon Reviews

Watch out Percy Jackson here comes Jack Templar
Move over Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, there's a new kid in town - Jack Templar, and he will take you on a wonderful adventure of good vs evil, with friends and enemies at every turn. The twists and turns keep the reader on a roller coaster of entertainment in the way of JK Rowling and Rick Riordan. ~ Penny Brein

Fast paced adventure through and through
Written for middle school aged students, this book is action-packed from the beginning and will hold the attention of young readers. Not only that, as an adult reader, it was hard to put down, so parents will enjoy it as an easy read. ~ bluejellybean

Kids will love it!
Not only will kids love it, adults will too! I don't want to give the plot away but this is a book worth reading. This book is creatively written drawing in the reader to be a participant in the story. There is lots of action with enough blood and guts to be interesting without being gross. Girls will like it too with the strong female role models and the hint of romance. Even though this is a children's book, I couldn't put it down. I will definitely be adding this to my classroom library. I am looking forward to reading the book in this series and sharing it with my students. Awesome book! ~ pixiep


Purchase


Book Trailer




WARNING

Yeah, you read it right. I’m a monster hunter. Back before I actually became one, I would have thought that sounded totally awesome. And don’t get me wrong, in a lot of ways it is. But most of the time, I’m either running for my life or hiding in the shadows, praying the monster chasing me doesn’t pick up my scent. And I’m almost always scared to death. In a few pages, I think you’ll see why.
     But there are a few things I need to warn you about before I tell you my story.
     First, this isn’t a cartoon. These are bloodthirsty creatures who will stop at nothing to kill. They are scary. Very scary. Second, the only way to stop them is to kill them first…and that gets gross and messy. Third, this is all real.
     You think I’m kidding, don’t you? I can almost see you smirking as you read this. But this isn’t a joke. Monsters are real and the story I’m about to tell you really happened. If you’d rather walk through life believing that monsters are only found in books or on the movie screen, then you should shut this book right now and go do something else.
     I give you these warnings because the story I’m about to tell you isn’t for everyone. Not everyone can handle it. The blood. The gore. The monsters.
     This life was thrust onto me. I had no choice but to take up a sword and fight. But you can still walk away and pretend this dark world doesn’t exist. Or you can walk through the door that I’m about to open and find out the truth about the world around you.
     But I warn you (and this is a big warning), if you read this book, if you learn about the monsters that roam among us and the hunters who fight them, if you decide to learn the truth, then you will become fair game for the monsters to chase.
     Make sure you understand what I’m saying.
     If you read this book, you will be part of this world and the monsters will come after you too. You will start to see things that no other humans can see. The shadows will move when you walk near them. The creatures of the night will seek you out, testing the doors and windows of your house, looking for a way in.
     And, at some point, they will find you, just like they found me, and you will be forced to defend yourself.
     So, think carefully before you turn the page, because once you do, there’s no turning back.
     Ever.
     Once a monster hunter, always a monster hunter.
     See you on the other side.
     If you’re brave enough.


Tour Schedule






Book Blast $50 Giveaway
Ends 2/15/13
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Thursday, January 24, 2013

New Fan Pages



I have been busy making new fan pages on Facebook. If you want to like them here are the links. Thanks!

Author Cindy C Bennett

Geek Girl

Heart on a Chain

Immortal Mine

Rapunzel Untangled

Enchanted Fairytales



The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack Review


Blurb: Jacey Grayson is an average, young, divorced mother struggling to build a new life for her son, Blaze. But when the FBI discloses some disturbing information about her ex-husband, Jacey's life becomes anything but average. At the risk of losing her identity, her future, and her heart, Jacey and Blaze flee to Utah, hoping to hide and start over once again. But no matter how far she runs or who she pretends to be, her past is always lurking nearby, bringing old fears with it. Thrilling action and a suspenseful plot make this novel an edge-of-your-seat-read. 


I have to say that I love a book that is clean. Anyone who knows me or who has read my own work knows that. Even more than that, I love a book that is clean and GOOD! And Slack's The Alias fits that bill very well.

Jacey Grayson is forced to go into hiding to protect herself and her son from her violent ex-husband. She's not happy about the deception required, especially when she sees her son becoming sullen and withdrawn. But she finds a sense of safety at the ranch in rural Utah with Grant and Helen, two very lovable characters. Of course, the story doesn't end there, and her sense of security is shattered when her ex shows up and takes Blaze, her son.

I don't want to give too much of the story away, but I do want to say that this is an edge-of-your-seat story, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I love that I couldn't figure out which way the story was going from the beginning, as happens many times with books. Never fear, there is also plenty of romance for our sympathetic, very likeable heroine. Slack handles the abuse, romance, sense of family, suspense and action with a masterful hand, never too heavy handed or preachy, and never glossing over the reality of Jacey's situation. I highly recommend this book.

About the author:

Mandi Tucker Slack grew up in Orangeville, UT, where her father worked as a coal miner for eighteen years. In 1987 the coal mines shut down for a time and her father joined the U.S. Army. They were stationed in Hanau, Germany, and she had the opportunity to explore Europe. Mandi’s family returned to Utah in 1992, and they settled in Orangeville, Utah, where she attended and completed High School. She then attended the College of Eastern Utah, where she studied Geology. Eventually Mandi changed her major and moved on to Utah State University while she completed a degree in Special Education. She then married her best friend, Charles Slack. They have three children, two dogs, and a lizard (sometimes several lizards).Their family loves to spend time together. They especially love to rock hound and camp, and her house is littered with rocks and fossils. Mandi loves the outdoors, and she enjoys writing suspenseful novels and short stories.

She loves to hear from here readers.  Please contact her @ mandislack@gmail.com

* Purchase The Alias Here * 





Monday, January 21, 2013

Back to the Future Giveaway Hop

Back to the Future - A Giveaway Hop Across Time

January 22nd to 28th

For the Back to the Future Giveaway I am going to be giving away a digital copy of Dissidence by Jamie Canosa. Good Luck!

About Dissidence


In dystopian America, sixteen year old Kaleigh finds out quickly what having a big mouth and not enough brains to keep it shut can earn you. A one-way ticket to the work camps that no one even knows exists.
 
Nuclear war has ravished the nation, and a century later, the survivors are living in an entirely new world.  In a society where everything is decided for you, from where you work to who you marry, dissidence is not taken lightly.
    
But, even inside the camps, Kaleigh’s fiery spirit refuses to be extinguished. In a single moment of defiance, she manages to spark a riot that ignites into a full-blown rebellion.
 
With growing numbers counting on her, not just for their freedom, but for their very lives, two different boys vying for her heart, and trouble brewing from within the camp itself, can Kaleigh find a way to step up and become the leader everyone is counting on her to be, or will even the most carefully laid plans come crashing down around her?
My Dissidence Review

Disclaimer: Dissidence is published by Prose by Design, which I happen to co-own. It might seem self-serving to promote and give the book a good review, but I want you to know I gave it the review I’d have given it no matter who published it. I just happen to be lucky enough to have read the novel before anyone else and snap it up before another publisher. 


So, without further ado, here’s my review:

I’m a huge fan of dystopian novels. That being said, it can sometimes be difficult to find one that’s so good it sucks me in.

Dissidence is definitely one of those books. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed Jamie’s book. I couldn’t stop reading it. In fact, as one of the editors, I kept forgetting to edit because I was so entranced by the story. I’d have to go back and re-read what I’d already read to do my job.
Jamie has weaved a tale in the vein of Hunger Games or Divergent, but with a completely unique story and heroine. Kaleigh doesn’t ever intend to be a hero, but she can’t stand by and watch someone else abused by a system that the general population isn’t even aware exists. Her instinctive action begins a revolution. Aided by the hunky Connor, she sneaks back into a work camp—in spite of the fact that everyone else is trying to get out—to rescue her lifelong friend Peter.

You’ll fall completely in love with all three main characters. Kaleigh in particular holds a special place in my heart because of her beautiful sarcasm and humor. Jamie wrote her in such a way that half the time you don’t know whether to laugh, cry, or jump into the pages and help her kick some butt.

The story is fast paced and ends far too soon, only because I wanted to stay in Kaleigh, Peter, and Connor’s world a little longer. Dissidence is an absolutely brilliant book.

If you like Jamie’s writing, I also highly recommend Our Own Worst Enemies, her short story in Screams in the Night: Tales of Terror(where I also happen to have a story, but hers is far better than mine). That’s honestly my all-time favorite zombie story—and that’s saying a lot considering I’m a fan of them (The Walking Dead, anyone?)

I not only highly recommend this book, I strongly encourage you to immediately get a copy and read it!


 
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Thursday, January 17, 2013

Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop


January 18th to 24th
For Dreaming of Books Giveaway hop I am giving one lucky winner a hard copy of one of my books (domestic) or a digital copy of one of my books (international).  Good luck!

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Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Where are the Christians? Blog Tour


Where are theChristians? uses the classic format of who, what, where and how to explore Christianity and the dynamics that unite and divide the religion into what Shuster refers to as “the unrealized potential it suffers from today.”  Where are the Christians? is designed to enlighten the reader as to who the Christians are from a historical perspective; what a Christian is from a spiritual perspective; where the Christians are from a behavioral perspective; and how Christianity can be strengthened and more united from a societal perspective. The book examines hundreds of biblical and scholarly sources, analyzing data from a multitude of studies leading to unique perspectives and solutions to the challenges facing Christianity in the modern era.

The book’s author, Eric Shuster, known for spiritual outreach across the Christian isle in previous books, says “The greatest strength of Christianity is its diversity in having something for everyone; however, that strength is also its greatest weakness in failing to unite toward a greater influence— especially in America where at times one finds it difficult to believe 76% of Americans call themselves Christian.” The striking nature of Shuster’s insights into Christian history, biblical theology, spiritual data, and social dynamics are sure to impact the discussion of Christianity among all religions as he adds fresh perspective to an increasingly volatile subject.

About the Author

Eric Shuster has dedicated his writing career to building bridges of understanding between Christians. He is the executive director of the Foundation for Christian Studies (www.studychristianity.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to the study, teaching, and practice of Christianity in support of essential Christian values and compassionate service across the globe. With his professional research background, directorship at the Foundation for Christian Studies, and his unique life experiences, Eric is able to delve into complex spiritual subject matter and make it understandable and enjoyable to the everyday reader.


For further information, contact Cedar Fort, Inc.
Rodney Fife
Marketing Publicist
Cedar Fort Publishing
www.cedarfortbooks.com
801.489.4084

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Three Lucky Winners

I would love to announce three winners from previous blog giveaways.

Taffy Lovell, who won a $10.00 amazon gift card

For the Finished Being Fat blog tour...
Gayle Gold, who won a hard copy of Finished Being Fat

Lana Stringer, who won a hard copy of Its a Love Thing

Congratulations!