Blog Tour: Colonization Review

Colonization (Paradise Reclaimed #1) by Aubrie Dionne
★★★★☆
Release Date: 2012
Publisher: Inkspell Publishing
Age: YA
Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Space, Futuristic
Format: ebook
Source: Inkspell Publishing
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Inkspell

Finding a new home has never been so dangerous.
Andromeda has spent all seventeen years of her life aboard a deep space transport vessel destined for a paradise planet. Her safe cocoon is about to break open as Paradise 21 looms only one month away, and she must take the aptitude tests to determine her role on the new world and her computer

assigned lifemate. As a great-granddaughter of the Commander of the ship, she wants to live up to her family name. But, her forbidden love for her childhood friend, Sirius, distracts her and she fails the tests. The results place her in a menial role in the new colony and pair her with Corvus, “the oaf”.
But when Andromeda steps foot on Paradise 21, her predestined future is the least of her worries. Alien ghosts from a failed colonization warn her of a deadly threat to her colony. And when Sirius's ship crashes on the far ridge in an attempt to investigate, she journeys to rescue him with Corvus.

Andromeda now must convince the authorities of the imminent danger to protect her new home. What she didn't expect was a battle of her own feelings for Sirius and Corvus.

Can she save the colony and discover her true love?

Colonization's cover was what completely drew me in to wanting to read this book, I did a cover reveal  for Inkspell back at the end of July (found here) and when I saw that there would be a blog tour for the book I was ecstatic!

Aubrie takes the best of both worlds when she creates a space book that scifi geeks like me will love, and crosses it with an adventure/finding oneself story that everyone in between will love (and I'm not even mentioning the love story that we all enjoy!). Set in deep space aboard a vessel heading for a new planet the story features a young set of characters growing up and taking control over their lives.

The romance in the story is very much a Hunger Games love triangle. You know exactly what I'm talking about. There's the best friend who you know would be more than that if it were possible and then there's this new flame that you feel guilty about rooting for then he happens to take over your heart. Yeah. It was pretty great. I have to say I'm still kind of team A but I'm learning to love team B (for both this book and THG). Aubrie creates just enough frustration and just enough long glances to satisfy but not over do it. Really enjoyed this aspect of the book and was pleasantly surprised with the outcome.

Our main character is Annie and she is pretty freaking cool. She begins as this against it all girl who in the beginning doesn't try real hard but ends up growing into the heroine of our story. Which is filled with some suspense and danger but she takes the risks and thinks of others before herself.

When the book started I immediately thought back to Across the Universe by Beth Revis. They talk about the generations aboard the ship, their jobs, the living quarters. It is all so cool, and I would absolutely love to get to be part of something like that, remember my previous comment; PURE SCIFI GEEK HERE FOLKS.

It's a great story and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series!

Giveaway

Inkspell has a fabulous giveaway for Colonization, find it here!

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Blog Tour: Dead Perfect

Dead Perfect by P.G. Shriver
★★★☆☆
Release Date: February 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Drama, Contemporary Romance, Supernatural
Format: ebook
Source: Young Adult Novel Reader Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

MEL 
My lifelong dreams never included falling in love. Graduating top of the class, going to college somewhere far away and starting a life in a place where my alcoholic mother could never find me were the first three goals on my list. Then the unexpected auto accident with Mother, after her regular doses of vodka, altered all of that. With her gone, my life and my perspective changed forever.  
 

DAVIS  
Desperate to find Joanie so I could break free, I returned to my old school. The search led me to her, my Aphrodite, a familiar lost look in her soulful eyes. Fantasies of her forced reasoning from my mind. I had to meet her! Once fallen, would her love for me survive the ghostly secrets haunting us?

Dead Perfect through me for a loop! In a good way. I kept trying to picture where the author was taking the story. As the book began I felt like I had it all figured out. It starts with Mel's POV, I felt bad for her and saw where the story was headed. But, then it switches to Davis' POV and bam. The author throws us a curve ball as their perspectives switch back and forth and a unique and addicting story line unfolds.

Mel is in a car accident where she loses her mother. Her life is turned upside down. Then she meets Davis. Their love is declared almost immediately and the book really only takes place over a very short period of time. I felt like their romance could've used some building up, but it is sweet and definitely an emotional journey. These two characters clicked and I was happy for them.

In the beginning of the book we meet Davis's parents. The dialogue from a particular dinner scene bothered me. It was corny and forced, then I finished the book and it didn't bother me anymore because there was a very good reason for the word choice. His sister Donna was probably my favorite character, either her or Franky. They had this love-hate fun relationship where they called each other names and picked on one another. It was cute and added a little reprieve from an otherwise intense read.

It's always hard to write reviews for books like this because on one hand I want to tell you all the secrets and on the other I had so much fun reading this book and finding them out on my own that I would never want to give anything away. So I will stop here so that I don't tell you too much.

Dead Perfect is a delightful and quick read that focuses on forgiveness and young love. It is also a mysterious drama that I wasn't able to put down; I was trapped until I read the last page. It develops quickly and has a two major plot lines that I never saw coming. I enjoyed this read for the well done element of surprise and likable characters. Definitely a good book and one I will be mentioning to those I think will love the elements!


About the Author

Born in California, and raised in Minnesota and Texas, P.G. spent her early years writing poetry and winning poetry contests, while escaping the drama in her own childhood by reading great books for children. Ever since her earliest days, she loved story telling. She wrote numerous short stories in High School and her early college years, continually trying to relive that first experience at the age of seven of seeing her name in print in the local newspaper.
P.G. sought her education at the University of Texas, where she studied English, literature, and Education. During the entire process of earning her BA and M.Ed, she never stopped writing and trying to be published. It was during this time that her first children's book No More Stinkbugs! was accepted for publication by Castle Keep Press. Many of her stories develop from nature.
P.G. graduated college and began her career in education, another great world that offered real experiences to humor and delight through children's books. She watched children interact, bringing to surface her own experiences as a child and yet more events to write about. While teaching, she discovered many great books for young people, such as The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963, Maniac Magee, So. B. It and many more. She is a fan of Dean Koontz novels, too, and loves reading fantasy and paranormal books.
P.G. was married 20 years in March 2012 and has a bright, young daughter who has begun her own college career. She lives on a small farm in Texas with her family and animals. P.G. has experienced great love and loss throughout her life. Those her family has lost have dedications in her books.
P.G. has two young adult books published, Dead Perfect and The Gifted Ones: The Fairytale the first book in The Gifted Ones Trilogy. She also has several children's books written under Gean Penny, her pseudonym. P. G. has since dissolved her contract for her first book with Castle Keep Press and moved the title to her own imprint, Gean Penny Books.

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Blog Tour: Ephemeral Review

 

Ephemeral (The Countenance #1) by Addison Moore
★★★★★
Release Date: September 2012
Age: YA, Mature
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Angels, Death, Romance, Zombies, Friendship, Supernatural Abilities
Format Reviewed: ebook
Source: SupaGurl Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords
Other books by Addison: Ethereal (Celestra #1), Tremble (Celestra #2), Burn (Celestra #3) and more in the series!

The last thing Laken Stewart remembers is the oncoming car, then bursting through the windshield.

Two months dissolve without her knowledge and she finds herself in unfamiliar surroundings with strangers who not only profess to know her but insist she’s someone else entirely.

Laken discovers her long dead boyfriend, Wesley, has been thrown into this alternate world as well. He is quick to inform her she suffered a horrible fall and that her memory hasn’t fully returned. According to Wesley the other life she had—her name, her family, they were simply a side effect of her brain trauma.

In her quest for answers she meets Cooper Flanders, the son of her psychiatrist who readily believes every word she says.

Laken Stewart knows she died on that hot July afternoon, but now she’s alive—or is she?

This book is just about one of the greatest things I've read! Addison Moore's ability to create a fantastical story and make it seem real is thrilling and exciting, Countenance is quickly becoming my new favorite series! Book 2 can't get here fast enough!

Laken knows she was in a car accident, she knows her parents are not really her parents, she knows her brother and exboyfriend are dead, but no one else knows these things. Spoon fed lies that she just can't believe Laken sets out to figure out exactly what's going on.

In Ephemeral, a boarding school (we all know I LOVE boarding school set books!) for some very different people, Laken is told how her life is and was but it's getting harder and harder to believe those around her. Unsure who to trust, and left wondering who is sending Spectators (ressurections gone wrong, think Zombies!) after her, Laken embarks on a journey to find the truths in this crazy place. Laken is determined to get home, but isn't this home?

Everything about this book bleeds greatness. Ok, not everything. There were only a handful of characters I liked. The rest were awful, which was definitely the point and held true to the "don't trust anyone" theme, but my goodness. Talk about catty girls and whorish boys. Laken is my favorite character in this book, she's tough and awesome. My favorite line of hers, which is really a thought was; "Like hell I'm going to run." Jen, Laken's not-so-sister was a hoot (maybe not to Laken though). Her 1950s beliefs and obsession with a boy who so obviously doesn't want her anymore, left me wondering what was up with her. Definitely something strange going on there.

Addison throws in a very complicated love story into the mix! When Laken enters Ephemeral she is saved from a creature in the woods by Cooper. sexy sweet and dependable Cooper. He's one dreamy-full-of-depth boy. After Cooper saves her she learns about her "new" life and stumbles upon Wes and Fletcher. Wes, her only love from back home in Kansas who drowned alongside her brother Fletcher shouldn't be here. But, he is. Only thing is that they're inside his mind and he doesn't remember the past life she does. This makes for a very interesting read! Addison Moore sets up one of the best love triangles, but I will say I love me some Cooper. Wes was her past and Cooper had better be her future! Hear that Addison? ;)

Apart from an excellent romance filled with frustration and heated kisses, well 2 romances, zombie like creatures, and a main character who is either crazy or completely lucid, this book has an addictive paranormal story line that is sure to weave multiple questions into any readers mind. Oh, and did I mention how hot Cooper is. Well, he's pretty great. If for that reason alone, READ THIS BOOK!

This series is going to ROCK! Addison Moore congratulations you have successfully sucked me into your books and I will definitely be beginning your Celestra series soon; which book 1, Ethereal, is free right now on Amazon folks!

Funniest line: "No spinning." Fletch digs a finger into his chest before walking away. "No freaking spinning, dude."

About the Author

Addison Moore is the author of young adult fiction and romance. She has worked as therapist on a locked psychiatric unit for almost a decade. She is the mother of four wonderful children. She resides on the West Coast with her family and two dogs where she eats too much chocolate and stays up way too late. When she's not writing, she's reading.

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Blog Tour: The Last Year Series Double Review and Giveaway

I LOVED the start to this series and cannot wait for more by Trisha Leigh!

Book 1

Whispers in Autumn (The Last Year #1) by Trisha Leigh
★★★★★
Release Date: July 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Science Fiction, Paranormal, Romance, Friendship, Aliens, Dystopian
Format Reviewed: ebook
Source: AToMR Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

In 2015, a race of alien Others conquered Earth. They enslaved humanity not by force, but through an aggressive mind control that turned people into contented, unquestioning robots.

Except sixteen-year-old Althea isn’t content at all, and she doesn’t need the mysterious note inside her locket to tell her she’s Something Else. It also warns her to trust no one, so she hides the pieces that make her different, even though it means being alone.

Then she meets Lucas, everything changes.

Althea and Lucas are immune to the alien mind control, and together they search for the reason why. What they uncover is a stunning truth the Others never anticipated, one with the potential to free the brainwashed human race.

It’s not who they are that makes them special, but what.
And what they are is a threat. One the Others are determined to eliminate for good.

As the start to the series this book builds a unique and eerie world in which people are void of emotion and have been brainwashed and mind controlled to do as their captors wish. But, there are some who are different. Althea's life is not easy, and as she learns throughout the story what being Something Else means, everything she's ever believed comes crashing down around her. With a similar feel to books like Delirium by Lauren Oliver; Trisha Leigh is an unbelievably amazing author who completely rocked my socks off with this new alien tale.

Althea is used to being invisible, but somehow people are starting to notice her and she knows everything is about to change. It all begins with a boy named Lucas and his overwhelming smell of Winter that happens to compliment her Summer smell. Through unimaginable twists and turns this book takes flight and never settles down. It's a journey that was intense and I didn't put the book down once!

The love story between Lucas and Althea is sweet and slow, they take their time and build these strong emotions. It doesn't hurt that Lucas is a total swoon worthy boy who is always there for Althea, he's her rock. When they are forced to seek answers about their lives they stand by each others sides and the kisses. Their friendly and fun banter, even as the story's intensity builds was a refreshing and smile worthy aspect to the book. Lucas is my favorite character, next to Althea of course.

The cruel truths throughout the story are surprising. Trisha Leigh manages to keep building the story throughout and even at the end I was left with one word, wow. I was very excited to have book 2 in my hands and ready to continue the series. If you're looking for a futuristic science fiction read that features a lovely romance, twists, secrets, and plenty of adventure and suspense make sure to check this one out!

Book 2

Winter Omens (The Last Year #2) by Trisha Leigh

★★★★★

Release Date: September 25, 2012

Age: YA

Genre: Science Fiction, Paranormal, Romance, Friendship, Aliens, Dystopian

Format Reviewed: ebook

Source: AToMR Blog Tours

Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Althea and Lucas barely escaped the Others’ clutches in the autumn, and were separated in the process. Alone and on the run from the cruel alien race determined to exterminate her, Althea struggles to adapt and survive in a world she never imagined.

When a boy named Pax appears out of nowhere, he quickly recognizes Althea for what she is – a human/Other hybrid just like him. Althea begs him to help her find Lucas, but Pax refuses, intent on following his own mysterious agenda.

The Others’ presence continues to devour the planet’s resources, and if history is an indication, they won’t leave until Earth is destroyed beyond repair. Althea and Pax sense the only way to save themselves – and maybe their home – is to understand the powers simmering inside them.

Together they push the limits of their capabilities in the quiet Wilds, but are soon confronted with a terrifying fact: no place is safe from the relentless pursuit of the Others.
Least of all their own minds.

In this almost-better-than-the-first-book sequel we follow Althea on her quest to find Lucas. If you haven't read Whispers in Autumn DO SO NOW! Don't read any further, except for below to enter the giveaway and follow this blog tour.

Trisha Leigh succeeds in creating a followup that is a worthy component of one of my new favorite series. With the first book being one of the most creative and intense reads I've experienced in a while I was on the edge of my seat to begin reading this one, and I'm glad I devoured it so quickly. She takes this story and weaves another chapter that left me jumping for joy and biting my nails.

Winter Omens changes everything I loved about the first book by the exclusion of Lucas, I missed him a lot. But, it makes it that much better with the inclusion of Pax. On her search for Lucas in a world she's always been told is dangerous Althea risks everything for a boy who she may love and befriends a boy that excites her in ways she's never known; she also befriends a four legged animal who becomes a companion. Pax is everything that Lucas isn't and shares the secrets that they do, if you're going to have a love triangle (which I love, and am still crossing my fingers that Lucas gets the girl) then you might as well play for opposites. This twist in a story that I thought I had figured out happens to diversify and expand on my emotions and make for an even better read (which I would've never thought was possible). Go Trisha! I can't wait for the next book! I hope I don't have to wait long ;)

This book managed to really get under my skin and stay there; I'm still thinking about this fascinating story days after I've turned the last page. While I loved Whispers in Autumn, I love how the author shakes everything up in Winter Omens. Trisha Leigh has a magical way with words and turns the alien story into a new breed of books that I absolutely LOVE!

Giveaway

Hosted by the author.

This giveaway is international!

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Blog Tour: Forsaken Review and Giveaway

Forsaken (Daughters of the Sea #1) by Kristen Day
★★★★☆
Release Date: July 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Supernatural, Mythology, Romance
Format: ebook
Source: YANR Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Once you’ve been touched by darkness, it never leaves you…

Abandoned by her parents as an infant; seventeen year old Hannah spent her childhood wading through countless foster families until being adopted by the Whitmans three years ago. Unfortunately, Atlanta’s high society wasn’t quite ready for Hannah…or the strange events that plague her.

Chilling visions of murder, unexplained hallucinations, and a dark, mysterious guy who haunts her nightmares all culminate to set in motion a journey of self-discovery that will challenge everything she’s ever believed; not to mention her sanity. 

Sent to live at The House of Lorelei on Bald Head Island, NC for ‘kids like her’, Hannah quickly realizes things are not what they seem. Her fellow ‘disturbed’ teens are actually the descendents of mythical Sea Gods and Goddesses. And so is she.

But when Finn, the ghost from her dreams, appears in the flesh; her nightmares become reality and her dark visions begin coming true. Inexplicably drawn to him, she can’t deny the dangerous hold he has on her heart. The deadly secrets he harbors will ultimately test her courage and push the boundaries of her love. 

She must decide if she is ready to embrace the ancient legend she is prophesized to be a part of. The fate of all the descendents will forever depend upon it.

Forsaken features a dark and incredibly unforgettable journey as Hannah, or Stasia as she goes by as her life takes a dramatic turn, learns everything about herself she ever wondered about. Throwing normal out the window she takes a plunge towards darkness and searches for answers.

Orphaned as a baby Hannah has only ever known hurt and has lived an unimaginably cruel life. She's built up these walls around herself, but as she falls into place besides new friends and a mysterious boy her walls begin to crumble. Finn, a powerful but seemingly dark character, awakens a lot in Hannah and the passion they share is amazing. Finn is what I would call Holy Hotness. He radiates a bad boy persona and just happens to be the boy of her dreams, literally. But, he's dangerous as far as Hannah's been told and her sense of self preservation, while slightly lacking, deep down is telling her to stay guarded. I am very excited about their story, I'm involved on a large level and am looking forward to seeing what happens (especially after that ending!).

Forsaken is a mythological tale woven with a powerful love story, fun and relatable characters, and a mysterious undertone. It features action, a boarding school atmosphere, adventure, drama, danger, and complete with supernatural abilities it's a series that will surely rise as it grows. The secrets live on each page and as the reader ventures further into the story the intensity builds. Questions begin to be answered and there are quite a few people that turn out to be just who your gut was telling you they were; but there are those who become more. It is an amazing journey that everyone should check out even if only for Finn and his Holy Hotness ;) I definitely recommend this read!

The mythology and legendary tone of this book is refreshing and made me think back to books like Percy Jackson. Kristen Day takes one of my favorite genres and weaves the beginning to a series that I am excited to be following.

About the AuthorKristen Day is a southern belle at heart with a crazy streak that desperately tries to escape at every opportunity. She loves all things nostalgic, rustic, and quirky. She’s been told she sees the world through rose-colored glasses, but she prefers to think of them as kaleidoscope glasses - swirling and morphing reality into something she can digest (who hasn't pretended those pasty lima beans were really kiwi strawberry jelly beans?).
She is the author of the DAUGHTERS OF THE SEA trilogy, which includes FORSAKEN, AWAKEN (Oct 2012), and CHOSEN (Winter 2012). She loves all books, but really enjoys writing young adult, paranormal romances. She’s loved to write for as long as she can remember. Her first published work was her poem RED in second grade (you guessed it - it was a poem about the color red - life altering, right?) that won her 5 gold stars and a spot in her elementary school's poetry book. That's when her addiction to the written word officially began. She was the only kid in fifth grade that actually enjoyed diagramming sentences. Go ahead and laugh - its okay.
When she’s not writing she’s making jewelry, painting, feeding her addiction to sweet tea, watching the Discovery Channel, or going on random adventures in the mountains of North Carolina with her amazing husband. She was born in Boone, NC and graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Marketing in 2001.

Tomorrows stop is hosted by Book Lovin' Mamas 

Giveaway

Hosted by the wonderful author is a giveaway for 7 ebook copies of Forsaken!
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Blog Tour: Flight Review and Giveaway

Flight by Alyssa Rose Ivy
★★★★★
Release Date: August 16, 2012
Age: YA/Mature YA
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format Reviewed: ebook
Source: A Tale of Many Reviews Blog Tour
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Sometimes you just have to take flight.
A summer in New Orleans is exactly what Allie needs before starting college. Accepting her dad’s invitation to work at his hotel offers an escape from her ex-boyfriend and the chance to spend the summer with her best friend. Meeting a guy is the last thing on her mind—until she sees Levi.
Unable to resist the infuriating yet alluring Levi, Allie finds herself at the center of a supernatural society and forced to decide between following the path she has always trusted or saving a city that might just save her.

Just looking at the cover I thought, how cool is this book going to be. And, sometimes when I go into a book really excited about its premise I am let down, but that was not the case this time. Alyssa Rose Ivy has successfully created a new kind of paranormal romance, using elements we're used to and making it her own, that left me needing more of Levi and Allie.

Allie is in one word, fiery. She's not susceptible to Levi's charms (and boy does he seem charming), and the chase is what I love to see. Their romance is heated and intense, but doesn't happen suddenly and I couldn't get enough. Allie seems to be the perfect balance for Levi and him for her. In the words of several characters, they just work. I really enjoyed Allie's friend Jess as well; her character was the polar opposite of Allie and fun to follow. I hope we get more of her story, and secrets revealed, in upcoming installments.

Flight is rich in characters and isn't lacking in personality. Owen and Jared, both friend's with Levi, are two complex and mysterious characters that I'd love to read more about. But, my favorite character in Flight was definitely Hailey, Owen's sister. She is a tough cookie and I'm looking forward to her role in book 2, Focus.

In the background of Flight is the glowing and lively city of New Orleans, a place I have always wanted to visit. It's the perfect setting for this dark and mysterious story and Alyssa does a great job putting the reader on the streets with her detailed writing. Playing the city and recent tragedies into her book the author creates a well rounded plot that includes all angles.

By the end of the book Alyssa Rose Ivy had me pining for the next story, Focus, which is due out in January. This page turning drama isn't over yet, in fact it's just the beginning and I can't wait to read more. Flight is a book that will stick in my head for days!

If you're looking for a new paranormal romance series to keep you on your toes, frustrate and confuse your heart, make you want to side with both the head strong female and the hopeless male then pick up Flight. It was everything I was looking for in a read and more. I can't wait to see how this series plays out.

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Giveaways

US Only

Print Copy of Flight

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International

2 Ebook Copies of Flight

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Blog Tour: Redheads are Soulless Giveaway

Redheads are Soulless by Heather M. White
Release Date: May 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

High school senior, Sofia Black, has had a very hard life. Since her father's death 7 years ago, she has had to look after her drug addicted, alcoholic mother. School isn't any better for her either. The other kids constantly tease, and ridicule her. All she wants is to get out of her small hometown in Alabama. When new student, Jason, shows up, Sofia's world is turned upside down. She doesn't understand why he wants to befriend her so badly... And, just when she thinks she can trust him, trouble appears. Jason's twin brother, Robbie, moves into town, and things go haywire. Sofia is now running for her life - and Jason is forced to share hidden secrets with her. She learns the truth about her father's death, and finds out that she may not be as "human" as she once thought. She struggles to accept her fate, while fighting for her life.

Excerpt from Redheads are Soulless
"For me, dying seems like an easy way out. I only wish that death would have come sooner, before I met him, before he changed my life. It almost seems unfair that I have to leave him now, just when I found my place in the world.
I fought to stay alive. I fought for him. As reality slowly slipped away from my grasp, I tried hard to hold on. I couldn’t leave. Not now – not yet anyway.
I had to see his face one more time.
I had to say goodbye."

Giveaway
Thanks to the wonderful author, Heather, and the tour host at SupaGurl Tours I have an ebook copy of Redheads are Soulless to giveaway!

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Blog Tour: The Kiss Off Review

The Kiss Off by Sarah Billington
★★★★☆
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Contemporary Romance, High School, Music, Rock Star, Love
Content: Sexual References and Some language
Format: e-book
Source: Author and Blog Tour Hosted by Missy Reads and Reviews
Pre-Order it

When sixteen year old Poppy Douglas writes a song about her ex-boyfriend Cam and ex-friend Nikki, she has no idea that her heartbreak is about to go global. A local band picks up her song from Youtube and soon she’s along for the ride with her own fanbase as they blow up on the local club scene and hit the international charts. Though it turns out leaving Cam behind isn’t as easy as she had hoped. Tangled in a web of unfinished homework, ill-considered sexting and a new lead-singer boyfriend, Poppy has a choice to make between the ex that inspired it all and the rock God whose poster lines the inside of half the lockers at school. But as she struggles to keep her emotional dirty laundry private, she learns that the truth can be hard to find when your life is in the headlines.

The Kiss Off is an incredibly fun book, one of my favorites this year. I absolutely adore this slew of characters, the hilarious moments, and the cute love stories (and like stories). It's a tale of High School romance told by an amazing author!

Poppy is a great character. She was a normal teenager until the song she wrote is heard by millions of people, and one of those people is just a stranger on a bus until a chance meeting. This stranger, Ty, is one swoon worthy leading man. I just love the chemistry that Sarah creates between her characters (and not just the main ones, all characters are created equal in The Kiss Off), love it. When Ty's band plays the song, they make it big time, and Poppy is along for the ride. Screaming fans and groupies gave me this Between the Lines feel, I LOVE Between the Lines. It is just a great novel and I can go on and on about what I love but I think anyone reading this should check it out on release day!

Poppy's home life is chaotic. With two younger siblings, there is an endless supply of hilarious and sometimes embarrassing moments. But, what would high school be without some drama and surprise. Her parents are down to earth and another great addition to the story. And, although they aren't keyed into Poppy's life in the beginning of the book, they have a fantastic presence at the end.

All around I absolutely adore this book and recommend it to anyone looking for an excellent contemporary read. It's a wonderful love story that many of us can relate to. Being 16 is great, but Poppy has her share of rocky waters through the story. Read it! I can't wait to check out more books by Sarah Billington!

The Author

Twitter | Facebook Fan Page | Goodreads | Blog | Website

Sarah Billington is an Australian writer and editor who likes to write stories with love, laughs, suspense and zombies. Sometimes all in the same story. Her favouritest thing to write about are those horrendously awkward moments that come with being a teenager. Or a human being. Sarah was extremely accident-prone and klutzy as a kid and teen, so her cup runneth over with experiences of horrendously awkward moments to draw from in her writing. Thankfully, she has grown out of her klutziness. Mostly. She is, however, still an embarrassment. She loves a variety of random things, which include doggies (hers as well as yours), Swing Dancing, Ice Hockey, Roller Derby and she is a bit obsessive about paranormal investigation shows and channel E!. She writes light-hearted works under Sarah Billington, and darker, scarier and more torturous stories under her pen name, Edwina Ray. She also runs an editing, cover design and ebook formatting company Billington Media.

Tour Wide Giveaway

Commenters will go into a drawing to win 1 of 10 ebook copies of The Kiss Off and 3 winners will win the entire Sarah Billington back catalogue of ebooks (2 novel + 3 short stories).

Make sure to check out Crazed Bookie tomorrow for the next stop on the tour!  

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Blog Tour: Saving You Saving Me Review and more

Saving You Saving Me by Kailin Gow
Release Date: April, 16 2012
Publisher: Sparklesoup
Age: YA
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Issues
Format: ARC paperback
Source: ATOMR Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon

Sam never thought she would fall for the one mysterious guy she has been speaking to over the phone for months, the boy the counselors called Daggers. She wasn't supposed to talk to him outside of their sessions. But as she began to peel the layers of Daggers and learn who he is, the one boy she is supposed to be saving, might just be the one who is saving her.

Saving You Saving Me is an issue filled book that is hard to put down and hard to let go. Kailin Gow does a fantastic job relating the lives of the young characters found in her story, to her readers. She tackles issues in the book, like teen pregnancy and many instances of abuse carefully.

Samantha wants to be the perfect daughter to appease her perfect pastor father. She acts grown up and responsible. But, who has the time to be that good? It must be exhausting. Soon, her life catches up with her and the good girl who lacks any type of social life ends up with 3 boys wooing her. First we meet Collins, a successful young entrepreneur who has his eyes set on Sam. Collins character is complicated, beyond complicated really (Christian Grey, anyone?). I don't like him, he's cocky and bullheaded and hard to relate to, I just don't see the appeal. Then, we meet Derek. At first, a great character, easy to love. Then, the more he gets screen time, the less I was infatuated. Lastly, we are introduced to Daggers, a man of many layers and problems. Throughout the book any reader is given so much information to formulate their own opinions of what is going to happen.

When Samantha begins volunteering as a peer counselor her "perfect" personality Susan comes out. Susan is the voice screaming in Sam's head about what's right and the correct things to do. Nothing like Sam's little devil on her shoulder, Lola, wearing the 6" heals. This bit of humor to the story is fun and refreshing, a break from the drama and intense conversations found elsewhere in the book.

Kailin Gow throws a lot of elements into her book that make it easy to get involved in the story. It's a fast read full of drama and some very deep topics that would make it an excellent discussion group read.

Saving You Saving Me is an emotional and involved part one, which is great. I'd like to follow the lives of the characters and see what plays out.

Playlist

I am also very honored to be able to share the Saving You Saving Me Playlist created by the author!

Paperback Giveaway

I am hosting a US only Paperback Giveaway of an ARC of Saving You Saving Me by Kailin Gow!
Must be 13 or older to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grand Prize Giveaway: Signed copies of Bitter Frost, Fire Wars, The Phantom Diaries, PULSE, and Supernatural Devices at A Tale of Many Reviews on Saturday May 5th

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Blog Tour: Meeting Destiny Review and Giveaway

Meeting Destiny by Nancy Straight
★★★★☆
Release Date: June 26, 2010
Age: YA/ College Age Characters
Genre: Romance, Drama, Mystery, Suspense, Paranormal
Format: e-book
Source: Supa Gurl Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kindle Edition Currently FREE | Nook Edition Currently FREE

Lauren is visited in her dreams for years by a stranger claiming to be her destiny. Destiny becomes reality when paths cross during a failed robbery attempt. Lauren and the stranger experience chemistry like no other and now her doubt over her long time relationship with her high school sweetheart is not her only secret…someone else knows about her keen intuition and sixth sense.A mysterious clairvoyant seeks Lauren out and tells her not only of her life now but what the future may hold. Soon Lauren is in the middle of a murder investigation and a questionable friendship with the key suspect. Law enforcement, friends and family are concerned for Lauren but unfortunately they are unaware of the true danger…Sinister forces are at work and will stop at nothing to destroy Lauren’s abilities.

All I can think about at this moment is the shocking ending and that I need to get a hold of the second book now! Nancy Straight wove an incredible paranormal love story about a girl and a boy whose paths cross and are meant to be intertwined. The suspense found throughout the story, the thrilling murder investigation, and the well rounded and relatable characters and their intense love story kept me trapped in the pages of this book!

Lauren, in a moment of pure courageousness (or if you asked her mother pure selfishness), finds herself hurt and looking into the eyes of the man she's been dreaming about for years. Max is the paramedic that saves her life, moments after she risks it for a little boy. Max is her destiny. It sounded silly to me at first, I mean for her to know she is supposed to be with him. But, it works, very well.  Max is Lauren's knight in shining armor, and it is obvious even after the short amount of time they are together that they are meant to be together. They have a fast paced romance that made me fall in love with their tale.

There are quite a few secondary characters that are worth a second look, Nancy does a great job perfectly molding each character from her talent with words. Amanda, a reporter, is probably the one (besides Lauren and Max of course) that I was impressed with most. There's more in the background of her story that I'd like to know, and Nancy could probably write a book on her life as well. Then there's Seth. Seth is Lauren's best friend, and he thinks that Lauren should be his, and she was, until Max enters the picture. From the very beginning I didn't like Seth. He's not a bad character or anything I just found him sickeningly attached to Lauren, giving the initial events in the novel I guess it makes sense, but he's no Max. When Seth finds the one he's supposed to be with I blew a sigh of relief.

There is a bit of insta-love instilled in this book. Max and Lauren's relationship is short but strong, and one thing I noticed a few times was that their arguments (which to me they argued quite frequently) seemed to self resolve. I don't know how to explain it, but it seemed like one minute Max would be fuming about something and then all of a sudden it was over.

The author blends in the perfect amount of paranormal aspects into this story to make the events seem real and believable.

The stunning relationship that evolves in Meeting Destiny between Lauren and Max is magical. They are a great couple. I can't wait to read more of their story and the events that unfold in the series. The story is fast moving and full of the mystery and suspense that keeps me coming back for more. Fans of Nicole Williams' Eternal Eden series, Lauren Kate's Fallen series, and My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares are sure to love this one! Book 2, Destiny's Revenge, will definitely be a great read, one I will have to check out!

Giveaway

At each stop of this tour there is a Signed Paperback Giveaway!

US only.

Must be at least 13 to enter!

Also, at the end of the tour Supa Gurl Books will be hosting a signed paperback giveaway of all 3 books!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

Nancy was born in Sioux City Iowa, left the cold of the Midwest in 1991 and only returns to see family in the summer time. She spent ten years traveling the world as a US Marine and settled in rural SC with her husband, two children and three dogs.  She enjoys RVing with her family, writing Paranormal Romance / Urban Fantasy and reading all types of Paranormal and Young Adult literature.

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Blog Tour: Friendly Fire Review

Friendly Fire (Thin Air #2) by Lynn Seresin
Age: YA
Genre: Fantasy, Supernatural, Drama, Romance
Format: Ebook
Source: These Paper Worlds Blog Tours
Buy it: Amazon

Though their love remains strong, the pressure of constant danger has taken its toll on Alice and Daniel’s relationship. Paralda’s assassins continue their murder spree in New York City, targeting girls who resemble Alice in an effort to fulfill the air king’s deadly directive. As if life wasn’t complicated enough, the couple must also fiercely guard the secret of Alice’s emergent powers and true identity from everyone--including their closest friends--to protect her safety.

Enter Ash and Terrance: two former elementals, each with their own set of reasons for transmuting to the human plane. For Ash, the material realm represents freedom and the possibility of fulfilling a forbidden wish. Terrance has only one aim in the mortal world: to win Alice’s heart. And it seems he’ll stop at nothing to achieve his goal.

When I read Lynn's novel Thin Air, the first book in this series, I was mesmerized by Lynn's poetic language and I was very glad to see more of it in Friendly Fire. See my Thin Air review here and since this book is a sequel, I recommend reading book 1 first!

Alice and Daniel's relationship has become rocky with the ever present threat that looms over her, and they find themselves facing more danger to stay together. This book made me dislike Daniel, a lot. I found myself no longer rooting for them and their relationship (but not rooting for the other leg of this love triangle either). Daniel became an overbearing jerk, trying to control not only Alice's appearance but her as well. I loved him in the first book, but was very disappointed with his change in overall character. I'm sure there's reason to his madness, and it is explained, but I just don't see why she puts up with it.

I've enjoyed following these characters in their growth and getting reintroduced to their friends, especially Dante, and meeting Ash was interesting and heart breaking. I didn't know which direction Lynn planned on taking Ash's character, that was definitely a mystery.

The overall feel of this book is rather depressing, focusing on more and more drama as the pages unfold.

The ending of Friendly Fire was a pure shock to me, I'm still not completely over it. I enjoyed reading more of Alice's story and can't wait to see where Lynn takes the next installment. This book was a fast read for me, but I felt it lacking a little of the surprise element (no pun intended) that I found in book 1, being a second book it is much more than a filler book with quite a bit happening throughout the pages!

Be sure to check out Sarah's e-book Giveaway of Friendly Fire over at Inklings Read! Ends 4/18

Grand Prize Giveaway

Lynn is giving away this gorgeous necklace to one lucky winner. 

To enter, comment on the blog tour stops (found here). 

Make sure to mention that your comment is an entry for the prize! 

Open to US/Canada only.

Make sure to check out the next blog tour stop tomorrow 

April 13th at The Fairytale Nerd

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Blog Tour: Here Excerpt

Here (On the Otherside #1) by Denise Grover Swank

Amazon | B&N

Sixteen year old Julia Phillips buries herself in guilt after killing her best friend Monica in a car accident. Julia awoke in the hospital with a broken leg, a new talent for drawing and false memories of the accident, in which she dies and Monica lives. The doctors attribute this to her head injury, but no one can explain how a bracelet engraved with her name ended up at the scene of the accident. A bracelet no one has ever seen before. Classmate Evan Whittaker paid Julia no attention before the accident, let alone after. Now suddenly he’s volunteering to tutor her and offering to drive her home. She can't ignore that his new obsession started after his two-day disappearance last week and that he wears a pendant she’s been drawing for months. When the police show up one night looking for Evan, he begs Julia to run with him, convincing her that Monica is still alive. Julia agrees to go, never guessing where he’s really from.

HERE Excerpt

"My stomach twists into a pretzel as I walk through the library doors. Evan is already here, his back to me. My feet root to the floor and refuse to move forward. 

Muscles stretch the back of his t-shirt, thick biceps visible beneath the short sleeves. I never noticed Evan is so buff, but he does play football. His black hair waves in an unruly mess. His head tilts to the side and he catches sight of me. He turns his upper body, leaning a forearm along the back of the chair. The slight smile falls and his eyes burn as they search mine. 

I will my feet to move forward, but they balk as my breath catches in my throat. It’s THE Evan Whittaker. Looking at me. 

The ridiculousness of my thoughts hit me and my feet are free. I’m imagining things. As I walk, Evan watches me the entire way. Sliding into the seat next to him, I set my backpack on the table.

He continues to gawk. To my horror, blood creeps up until my face burns. 

Evan clears his throat and gives his attention to the open history book on the table. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have stared.”

I shrug. “It’s okay. I’m used to it.”

He looks up, his eyes narrowing as his lips pinch in a frown. “You shouldn't have to go through that. I can’t understand why people believe the worst about you. It wasn’t your fault.”

My heart skips a beat. “What did you just say?”

He freezes. “That I can't believe people are so mean to you?”

“No, the other part.”

His head leans closer to mine as his eyes soften. “It wasn’t your fault.”

The deep blue eyes offer a peace I haven’t felt in months. But this feeling is a lie. My back straightens in irritation. “How would you know? The police think it was.”

He averts his gaze, twisting his pencil on the table in half circles. “Maybe so, but I don’t believe it.”

I wait, sure this is a trick, that he will burst out laughing at my gullibility. But instead, he curls up the corner of his mouth as though he's trying to figure a way out of this misunderstanding."

See more tour posts here

The Author

Denise Grover Swank lives in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. She has six children, three dogs, and an overactive imagination. She can be found dancing in her kitchen with her children, reading or writing her next book. You will rarely find her cleaning. Denise is represented by Amanda Luedeke of MacGregor Literary.

You can find out more about Denise and her other books at www.denisegroverswank.com or email her at denisegroverswank@gmail.com You can also follow her on Twitter: @DeniseMSwank or friend her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deniseswank

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Blog Tour: Whispering Hills Review and Giveaway

Whispering Hills by Taryn Browning
Release Date: March 2012
Age: YA
Genre: Supernatural, Paranormal Romance, Mystery
Format: ebook
Source: SupaGurl Tours
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

For as long as she can remember, 17-year-old Alexis Forbes can hear the thoughts of others. Most recently, she is disturbed by the dark, unfamiliar voice of a frightening killer: callous, cunning, charismatic…and dead.

She hears his every sinister thought. But she can’t tell anyone. No one would believe her. Alexis is suddenly being haunted by a terrifying past she doesn’t remember, and a ghost with a serious score to settle. Even Chance, the gorgeous new guy she’s falling for, has his own ghostly secret. He’s definitely not like any guy she’s ever met. Alexis soon discovers she has a connection to the dead and it runs much deeper than she could ever imagine. And if the sociopathic entity has his way, she’ll finally be sentenced to the fate she escaped thirteen years ago.

After reading Taryn's book, Dark Seeker, I knew that she would be an author to follow. And, lucky me, there was an upcoming blog tour for her newest novel, Whispering Hills. Whispering Hills is a paranormal romance that follows the supernatural mind reading life of Alexis, and the drama that becomes her norm. While I prefer Taryn's Janie Grey character, Alexis and her band of misfits continues, even now that I'm done with Whispering Hills, to grow on me.

It all starts with Chance, doesn't it always start with a boy? Chance is a mystery and his arrival, or is it return, to Whispering Hills ignites more than gossip in the small town. With this mysterious new boy also comes murder, but Alexis is inexplicably drawn to him. Unfortunately, Alexis' best friend Tiffany has her eye on him as well, and when Chance tells Tiffany that he has feelings for someone else it seems to cause a major rift between Alexis and Tiff; well, that partnered with some other events and people (like Summer). Ah, Summer. By far my favorite Whispering Hills resident. She is a spunky and smart tough girl who doesn't seem to need anyone. I really liked her character, and while I didn't feel very attached to Alexis I definitely understood Summer.

This book follows the YA paranormal romance pattern exactly. Misunderstood teen girl, meets mysterious and secretive teen boy, they share a connection, and supernatural events occur. It is a good story and it does have some very original plot points. One of my favorite parts of the book is the inclusion of opposites and I always love the addition of good versus evil.

This book left me with some questions, one for example is what about Tiffany? Alexis' best friend before the events that follow Chance's involvement in her life. When Alexis begins solving the mystery that is her life she just drops her, isn't that like girl rule number one? I didn't really like her anyway, but I feel like she just faded (haha inside joke) into the background. Also, why can't parents be involved more in YA books? I read so many that the parents are absent and the children make all the decisions themselves, I want to read more that have better parental relationships (I loved Grace, Summer's mom, and her involvement in the story). I feel like kids who read these books feel they shouldn't be including their parents in their lives.

I love Taryn Browning, and she's definitely a creative and fun author. Whispering Hills is a fast paced read that I recommend. And, I also recommend Dark Seeker.

Giveaway
There will be 3 winners.
e-book is International
Bookmarks US Only

a Rafflecopter giveaway



about the author

Blog | Website | Twitter | Facebook

Taryn Browning writes young adult paranormal romance and urban fantasy novels. Her debut novel, DARK SEEKER, is available on Amazon and B&N. The sequel, DARK RETURN, comes out in late, 2012. Taryn graduated with a BS in Education from Towson University and went on to earn a MS in Reading from Hood College. She lives in Virginia with her husband, two young sons and their dog. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, music, movies, and the beach. Visit her at http://www.tarynbrowning.com/, on twitter and facebook.

Also be sure to visit the tour site SupaGurl Books, for a big giveaway at the end of the tour April 12.

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