Guest Post with Danielle Sibarium: Top 5 Sure Fire Signs You Should See Other People

This has been a wonderful week so far! We get to have Danielle Sibarium, author of For Always, on our blog twice in one week! If you missed our interview with her from Monday, be sure to check it out. Now, I'm going to pass over the blog to Danielle. We are so glad to have you here again!

Thank you Gabby for inviting me here today, it is both an honor and a privilege!

Spring is in the air and as the flowers bloom and the trees blossom we are filled with the promise of something new and wonderful. It’s the time of year we want to give in to that all-encompassing feeling of falling in love. We all know the ecstasy of falling in love, that undeniable pull, the strong attraction and invasion of your mind, that feeling of walking on air when you can think of nothing but that new love you’ve found. But then things change, subtlety at first, so how do you know if he’s really the one? Here is a list of my top five sure fire signs you should start seeing other people.

1. You’re out to dinner with your boyfriend having a great time. The conversation is intriguing and then the food comes. Mr Wonderful reaches for his burger and takes a great big sloppy bite out of it, reminding you very much of the dinner scene between Belle and the Beast. Ugg! The questions start racing through your mind. Does he have any idea what he looks like? Does anyone really eat like that? Start looking!

2. You agree to spend the night apart with your respective friends. Right after your best girlfriend drags you away from the hot guy at the club you were forced to flirt with, you come up with an activity for the rest of the night. You drive down the street your boyfriend is supposed to be on with the headlights off so you’ll be undetectable. He said he just going to hang at home with his buddies and watch a movie. But, if he’s not . . . you can call and meet up with the guy you spent the last few hours dancing with guilt free. Start looking!

3. You haven’t seen or spoken to him all day you want to give him a quick call to tell him you miss him. He answers the phone the way he does every time you call, “Hi Honey,” or “Hi Sweetheart,” you start to realize every time you speak with him, even in person he calls you by a term of endearment and not your name. You think back and can’t really remember the last time he said your name. Does he even know it? Start looking!

4. On the phone, via email, or texts you planned a quiet romantic night at home. The time has come, the doorbell rings, and he leans in to kiss you. You pull away quickly while he’s still trying to put his arms around you, realizing you don’t want him to touch, embrace or kiss you. He asks if everything is okay and you answer sure, your smile feels more like a grimace. He reaches for your hand and just the flesh on flesh touching makes you squirm and your skin crawl. Start looking!

5. He takes you home and you have a funny feeling in the pit of your stomach that you may never see the light of day again. He leaves the room and you find yourself riffling through his things for proof he really is a serial killer. You’re afraid to let him put your jacket in the hall closet because you could swear you heard moaning from a previous victim as you walked by. If you have a gut feeling that the guy is creepy, not only is he not THE ONE, you need to get out as quickly as your feet will take you! Why did you ever stop looking?!

To learn more about Danielle Sibarium, visit her website. You can also find the author on Twitter.

Teaser Tuesday: Full Snow Moon by Lisa Begin-Kruysman

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share  doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week is from Full Snow Moon by Lisa Begin-Kruysman:

It looked like the light of a swaying lantern.

Nearing its source, Denis observed a curious snow-covered mound that he hoped-and feared- was the outline of Alex's Jeep. With no time to search for the bearer of the mysterious illumination, Denis swiftly cleared a portion of the mound with his arm until the frame of the jeep was visible.

Denis spoke loudly and firmly. "Alex, if you can hear me, hang on. I'm going for help."

Do you have a blog? Post a link to your Teaser Tuesday post in the comments. No blog? Post a Teaser in the comments anyway!

Meet the Author: Danielle Sibarium

Danielle Sibarium is the Author of For Always and has graciously agreed to stop by today and answer a few questions for us.We are so excited to have her here today!

How long have you been writing?
I fell in love with writing literally as I learned to write. I remember the day I learned about brainstorming in first grade. I went to a birthday party later that day and lost a game of Hot Potato because my mind was preoccupied with the idea of brainstorming. I envisioned a topic with a brain spitting out all sorts of words related to it. It was an actual storm of ideas. How cool! Right then and there I was hooked. In the sixth grade we were required to write one creative writing every month. My teacher would often read my stories out loud to the class, and my classmates enjoyed them. I knew then whatever my future held, writing would be a part of it.

What inspired you to write For Always?
I dealt with a lot of death growing up and I wanted to write about someone like me, a protagonist that must overcome obstacles of chance and her own self-doubt. A girl who doesn’t see her true potential, but uses the experiences she has gone through to find a reserve of perseverance and strength.

Which of your characters do you relate to most and why?
Stephanie. We are a lot alike. We have some of the same hang ups, only she is much more confident and together than I was as a teenager. She is like the me I wish I was then.

What is a secret about Stephanie that nobody else knows?
Without anyone realizing, Stephanie hid Jordan’s initials, JB in each of her drawings, much like Marc Brown hid his son’s names in the Arthur books.

If your real life as a teenager was a Young Adult book, what would you, the main character, be like?
I would be like Stephanie. I drew from experience growing up in Brooklyn in writing For Always. While For Always is fictional, Stephanie and I share many experiences, such as calling a boy I liked to find out if he liked my best friend, going bombing on Halloween, even the smoky bus incident was taken from my teen years.

What book have you read too many times to count?
I’m not big on rereading books. Usually I will go back to specific parts and reread passages. Twilight would be at the top of that list, along with Evermore.

What is the best piece of writing advice you ever received?
Besides the stock answer of write every day, which is paramount, the other piece of advice is to not be so critical of my own work. My mentor in college reminded me often what he believed to be the worst piece he ever wrote, went on to be a blockbuster movie and made him millions of dollars.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
I find that even though I knew where I want to go with my characters, they often had a mind of their own and veered off in a different direction. I still get them where they need to be in the end, but the journey is theirs.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I love spending time with my family. If I’m not doing that you can probably find me at the gym in a yoga or Zumba class. Zumba! Zumba!

Thank you so much for stopping by our blog today! We look forward to your guest post here on Wednesday!

To learn more about Danielle Sibarium, visit her website. You can also find the author on Twitter.

Meet the Author: Interview with M.L. Woolley and Giveaway!

 M.L. Woolley is the author of Dark Passage, her first novel. She has kindly taken some time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions for us. Her kindness doesn't end there. She has offered 4 free paperback versions of Dark Passage. PLUS! The first 200 people to enter also get a free kindle version of the book! More details after the interview.


1. How long have you been writing?
I started to write when I was a kid about random things. I especially enjoyed stories about the dark side and have always been a paranormal fan.

2. What inspired you to write Dark Passage?
A half mile from where I live is an old Victorian house. It sits on a hill and has a full view of the Puget Sound. It's quiet a lovely old house that was built in the 1800's and has always intrigued me. When I was a kid we lived a few houses away in another house that was built in the same era. The house we lived in was very haunted. We would hear people walking upstairs when everyone was gone and crazy things would happen. I was walking down to the water about a year ago and took digital pictures of the old house to put on my laptop. When I made it back home I blew the photos up to crop and there were faces in the attic windows. They were actual apparitions- That started story ideas brewing in my mind and every time I drove by the place I imagined the things that had happened there. Olalla is infamous for Dr. Linda Hazzard, the doctor that murdered dozens of people in her "Sanitarium"- it is a short walk from the old Victorian and old timers said the people who owned the old Victorian were friends with Linda. She did horrific things to patients and practiced spiritualism and devil worship as well.

3. Which of your characters do you relate to most and why?
I guess I would have to say Ivy reminds me of myself as a young person. She is quirky and always seems to be embroiled in some major problem. Deep down she has a good heart but can't seem to get it together. She is also loyal to a fault to her friends which I find to be an endearing quality in a person. She is strong minded and never gives up on what she wants to do and yet she is vulnerable- She is a free spirit and not one to be kept in a box.

4. What is a secret about you that nobody else knows?
When I was 19 years old I met a man in Seattle and went with him to Hollywood. He was a producer and also married (which he told me when we reached his home). It was a surreal experience being in that giant house and for a few days I wondered if I would get out alive. His wife walked around in a daze on Cocaine and the place was very creepy. He taught me to play chess and we would play for hours at a time. He was an eccentric man and reminded me of a person who could snap at any moment. I was fortunate to leave the place and make it home. On New Year's eve there was a party at a Hollywood actor's home and I was able to slip out and call a cab. I really believe something would have happened to me had I not left the place. Hollywood was a strange place and not at all what it seemed. I think some great stories could come from that experience.

5. If your real life as a teenager was a Young Adult book, what would you, the main character, be like?
Probably a mix of my nemesis Ivy and perhaps Rose from VA ;) I didn't care what people thought and had my own way of doing things.  

6. What book have you read too many times to count?
Rebecca

7. What is the best piece of writing advice you ever received?
Get inside the characters heads and write as though you are them.

8. What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your book?
Well- that I have a twisted imagination. I think it surprised me what came to my mind. Wild things that came from who knows where. I tempered it down some as the content shocked even me.

9. What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I love to spend time in the sun at secluded beaches. Port Townsend is my favorite place to go- The old military fort is abandoned now and said to be haunted. I like to imagine who was there and what they did. I also love riding horses- On the back of a horse you can almost take flight.

10. Are any of the things in Dark Passage based on real life experiences or purely all imagination? Actually, many of the things in the book are bits and pieces of my life or the lives of people I have known. I believe that the paranormal is real and people experience supernatural happenings every day- if you have an open mind.

To learn more about M.L. Woolley, check out her blog and visit her on Goodreads.



The Giveaway!
Like I mentioned before, M.L. Woolley has offered up 4 paperback versions of Dark Passage up for grabs. PLUS, the first 200 to enter will receive a kindle version of the book too!

How to Enter:

Unlike our usual giveaways, you don't have to follow our blog to enter for this one. Although we greatly appreciate it if you do. :o) The Rafflecopter form will guide you through the entry process.  

Rippler Giveaway!

 

Cidney Swanson has offered up a paperback copy of her amazing book, Rippler! I have spent all week reading this series, and let me just say, you will LOVE this book!! It's different! It's dangerous! It's fun! Check out my review of Rippler!

To learn more about Cidney Swanson and her books visit her blog or check her out on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

How to Enter:

The Rafflecopter form will guide you through the entry process. 

For your entries to qualify, you MUST complete the first 2 items on the form. Once you do that, you have 2 entries. Plus, there are opportunities for more entries if you choose to fill out the entire form! (The form may take a moment to load.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Unfurl by Cidney Swanson

Genre: Young Adult (Fantasy Romance/Science Fiction)

As I said before my review of Chameleon: If you haven't read Rippler yet, I suggest you do so before reading this review of Unfurl, which is the sequel to Rippler. Each book builds upon the other, so it's important you read the series from the beginning.

For their safety, Sam and Will have separated. The danger is taken to a new level until they can figure out how to stop Helmann, who has big plans for Sam in his Holocaust.

Unfurl is the final book in the Ripple Series by Cidney Swanson. I read this series in under a week. It was that good. This final book left no questions unanswered. All the mysteries and secrets that surrounded the situations and people throughout this series come to light. Though I'm sad to see the trilogy come to an end, it couldn't have had a better final book.

To read more about this series and Cidney Swanson, visit her website. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Check out an exclusive interview with the author!

Unfurl by Cidney Swanson was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

ReVamped Blog Tour: Interview with Ada Adams

Thank you to Bewitching Book Tours for letting us be a part of this tour. We are so glad to have Ada Adams, author of ReVamped, on our blog today! 

How long have you been writing?
Even though “ReVamped” is my debut novel, I have had a passion for writing ever since I picked up my first chapter book and began to read. All of a sudden, I was transported into a magical world full of mystery and awe. It was such an empowering feeling and since then, I knew that I wanted to write. I loved creating my own stories, and continued to develop my craft and my passion as I grew older. There is something so magical about being able to create an entire world full of colorful characters simply by putting a pen to paper (or fingers to a keyboard). I love that there are so many different writers and books in the world; everyone has their own take on storytelling!

What inspired you to write ReVamped?
I wanted to create a story about vampires, but I wanted to put a bit of a different spin on the genre. There are already so many wonderful books written about beautiful, strong, brilliant vampire beings, or dark, scary, evil ones, I decided to tell a tale about the misfit ones. I also wanted to take a more of a modern approach the topic, because vampires are part of our pop-culture. We are obsessed with them (and proud of it!), so I wanted to explore the idea of what would happen if they really existed amongst us.

I have a very long post regarding how “ReVamped” was first developed as a TV script, and later turned into a YA novel on the “ReVamped” Blog.

When you first started writing ReVamped, did you plan for it to be a series?
When I first plotted out the story, I didn’t expect for it to continue on into a series. However, once I began writing, I quickly realized that “ReVamped” doesn’t even scratch the surface of Dawn’s tale. After all, the book takes place over only a couple of months, and while Dawn experiences an entire lifetime of changes during that time, she is definitely not done growing. The ending of “ReVamped” has a resolution, but the sequel begins almost immediately after, so while you may not have been left with a cliffhanger (this was deliberate), you will begin “ReAwakened” with a bang!

What can you tell us about the sequel?
I can promise a lot more twists and turns! I think that has slowly become a signature for the “Angel Creek” series. My main goal with the sequel is also to slow down the story a little and focus on character growth and development, as well as the romantic aspect of Dawn’s life. I didn’t want to push the romance too much in the first book, in order to stay true to the characters, but also because the plot was so fast-paced, so I’m very excited to be able to delve deeper into that in the sequel. We will get to learn more about the misfits’ stories, as well as meet some new characters (most of which will be creating a lot of trouble for poor Dawn!). By the end of “ReVamped”, Dawn finds herself at a different point in her life for so many reasons, so I’m excited to explore that and push her to accept and fight for her feelings more.

Which of your characters do you relate to most and why?
I relate to each of the female characters on various levels. At the same time, they are all very different from me as well. Like Dawn, I love action and adventure, but I wouldn’t be able to hold out as long as she had without going on my first assignment! I am very loyal to my family and friends, a trait that Dawn also shares. I love how much she cares about her father, her nanny, and the misfits (even when they drive her crazy). However, I think that I’m a bit better when it comes to talking to boys. Like Sophie, I adore books, although I’m not as shy and conservative. Like Brooke, I was a cheerleader in high school (thankfully not for fifty years!), but unlike Brooke, I was also in the enriched program when it came to academics. Can you guess my favorite subject? :)

What is a secret about Dawn that nobody else knows?
Dawn’s life (especially her past) has been fashioned on the foundation of a few very big secrets. Giving those away would probably ruin the plot a little, as the main shock value for both Dawn and the readers comes from her unraveling those particular secrets. If you read the book,  can promise that those secrets will be explored even further (especially in Book Three). Since I do feel obliged to provide some secrets at least, I suppose it would be good to focus on Dawn’s personality. This is not necessarily a secret of hers, but I think that her personality when it comes to dealing with guys has been hugely shaped by her relationship with her father. While her father has always loved her unconditionally, he has a very hard time showing that love to Dawn. In a way, she has learned to put up a wall around her feelings, so she struggles with breaking down those barriers when it comes to her ability to express her romantic feelings toward Sebastian and Ethan. Now that the characters are more familiar with each other, they will find themselves in some interesting situations, so this will be explored on a much deeper level in the second book,

If your real life as a teenager was a Young Adult book, what would you, the main character, be like?
Wow! What a great question! I think that I would definitely be the type of main character that gets into a lot of trouble! I love action and adventure, and am a very curious girl, so I would probably find myself in a lot of fun and exciting situations! I do have a black belt and am a big proponent of strong girls that can hold their own, so I would most likely be a bit of a tough, butt-kicking kind of gal (if the plot required, of course). I would also DEFINITELY chase around that mysterious paranormal boy, even if he tells me to stay away for my own good. I mean, come on! However, I wouldn’t fall for that insta-love stuff. I would make him work for my affection!

What book have you read too many times to count?
Ever since I was a little girl, my mom and I have always read “Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch to each other. As I’m turning into more of a grown-up (yea, right!), I’m really starting to appreciate the strong bond that I have with my family. I’m forever grateful for their unconditional love and support. However, as far as chapter books go, I rarely reread them. I know that sounds really odd, but for some reason, I have an aversion to reading books and watching movies that I’ve already seen (unless a really long time has passed since reading/seeing it for the first time). I do support books that I adore in other ways: buying hardcopies to display on my shelf, reading the sequels or other works by the author, recommending them to friends, or daydreaming about them.

What is the best piece of writing advice you ever received?
“Write for yourself.” and it has always stuck with me. In order to truly love what you do, you must write the type of stories that inspire you and truly fill you with happiness and pleasure. Trying to tailor a story with only sales or fame in mind, will not only make you an unhappy writer, but will also not fulfill you as a person. The journey is not an easy one, and sometimes it can be a lonely one. However, as long as you’re truly writing because you love it and you’re happy to be doing so, I believe that you can achieve great things!

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
I think one of the most wonderful and surprising things that I have learned is that my character truly have a voice of their own. When I write certain scenes, I am sometimes surprised by the direction which they take, and even more shocked to realize that that particular course of action was not necessarily due to my plotting, but because of the characters’ personalities and desires.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I am also an actress, so I love to utilize my acting and explore different worlds and characters in a more physical way. I find that writing and acting complement each other very well. Writing helps me becoming a better actor and vice versa. I love being in nature, whether camping in the wilderness or swimming in the lake at the cottage. One of my favorite things to do is to travel! I want to see the entire world. This is proving to be a little difficult, as I’m not a very good flier. I also like photography (only as a hobby), and love to photograph different places. This past summer, I have really enjoyed exploring and photographing abandoned structures. Each one carries a unique and interesting story. I hope to, one day, write about the collection. I love spending time with my family, friends, and cuddling with my puppies (Cara and Oreo).

Are any of the things in your books based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?
Unfortunately, I have to admit that everything in “ReVamped” is purely fictional. I do draw from certain elements of pop-culture (“Transylvania Shore” could definitely be a highly-rated TV show about super-pale vampires who love to party, right?), but my real-life experiences are way less exciting than Dawn’s. I also try to incorporate characters who, while being purely fictional, deal with certain real-life issues (the need for family, the desire to be popular, the struggle for independence, etc.). After all, paranormal characters can also have “normal” problems!

Thank you Ada, for joining us today on our stop along the ReVamped Blog Tour!

ReVamped Blog Tour: Book Review of ReVamped by Ada Adams

To learn more about Ada Adams and her books, visit her website. You can also find the author on Facebook and Twitter.

ReVamped Blog Tour: Book Review of ReVamped by Ada Adams

Genre: Young Adult (Paranormal)

Dawn is excited about her first mission. The young vampire has been assigned to train four misfit vampires into guardians of the town of Angel Creek. She soon finds her task is not so easy and when a human is kidnapped by an unknown clan of vampires, Dawn realizes more is going on than what she realized. Through it all, she finds herself strangely attracted to a handsome human as well as a lover vampire all the while being hunted by an obsessed villain.

ReVamped started off a little goofy, but after the first few chapters it really started to get more complex. I was pleasantly surprised with the story line, and as it progressed, it drew me in more and more. The characters grew on me, and I enjoyed watching them grow into their own. ReVamped gave you a highly entertaining vampire story with a lovely mix of humor, twists, romance, and mystery. ReVamped is the debut novel by author Ada Adams. I'm excited to see how this story progresses and whatever else this promising new author releases in the future.

To learn more about Ada Adams and her books, visit her website. You can also find the author on Facebook and Twitter.

ReVamped Blog Tour: Interview with Ada Adams

ReVamped by Ada Adams was provided to me by Bewitching Book Tours for review. The opinions are my own.

Book Review: Chameleon by Cidney Swanson

Genre: Young Adult (Fantasy Romance/Science Fiction/Historical Fiction)

If you haven't read Rippler yet, I suggest you do so before reading this review of Chameleon, which is the sequel to Rippler. Each book builds upon the other, so it's important you read the series from the beginning. Chameleon picked up shortly after where Rippler left off. Sam's best friend is not speaking to her, Will is pretending the kiss never happened, and Helmann has decided he wants Sam alive now, instead of dead. She doesn't know which would be a worse fate. Sam thinks she'll be safe on her school trip to France, plus she'll get to finally meet Sir Walter. Someone is following her in France though. Someone who can ripple.

It's rare that I like a sequel better than the first book, but such is the case with Chameleon. I love how the series keeps building upon itself with more journal entries from the past, plus everything happening in the plot's present. It really adds to the depth and believability of the story. There is so much going on that keeps you glued to the pages, but it's not an information overload. It's quite the opposite, you can't get enough. This series will have you so enamored, it'll be easy to "ripple" into Sam's world and all too willingly become a part of it.

To read more about this series and Cidney Swanson, visit her website. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Check out an exclusive interview with the author!

Chameleon by Cidney Swanson was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

Book Review: Rippler by Cidney Swanson

 

Genre: Young Adult (Fantasy Romance/Science Fiction/Historical Fiction)

Samantha has the ability to turn invisible, or ripple, but she lacks the ability to control it. So, when Will sees her vanish right before his eyes, he promises to keep her secret and help her. Through a journal chronicling Nazi experiments and letters from a mystery man in France, Sam soon learns that people with the gene for invisibility have been killed over the years, and her life isn't the only one in danger.

Rippler is the first book in the Ripple Series written by Cidney Swanson. This story is hard to classify into one genre as it combines a little bit of Science Fiction with a little bit of Romance. Add a touch of Historical Fiction, and danger to the mix and you have something highly original and engaging. The journal entries form a dark and chilling history that builds upon itself as the story progresses. Rippler starts with a splash and keeps you immersed all the way through.

To read more about this series and Cidney Swanson, visit her website. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Check out an exclusive interview with the author!

Rippler by Cidney Swanson was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

Teaser Tuesday: Chameleon by Cidney Swanson

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share  doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week is from Chameleon by Cidney Swanson:

The leather cover felt cool against my palms. Time to ripple. I turned my thoughts to visions of still water. To one side, a fluttering motion caught my attention. Someone was rippling solid.

Someone besides Will.

Do you have a blog? Post a link to your Teaser Tuesday post in the comments. No blog? Post a Teaser in the comments anyway!

Book Trailer and Excerpt Reveal for Taste by Kate Evangelista

We've fallen in love with this cover! Isn't it gorgeous? Now, we are excited to reveal the Book Trailer from Taste by Kate Evangelista along with an excerpt from the book.

To get things started, how about a little blurb from Taste by Kate Evangelista?

At Barinkoff Academy, there's only one rule: no students on campus after curfew. Phoenix McKay soon finds out why when she is left behind at sunset. A group calling themselves night students threaten to taste her flesh until she is saved by a mysterious, alluring boy. With his pale skin, dark eyes, and mesmerizing voice, Demitri is both irresistible and impenetrable. He warns her to stay away from his dangerous world of flesh eaters. Unfortunately, the gorgeous and playful Luka has other plans.

When Phoenix is caught between her physical and her emotional attraction, she becomes the keeper of a deadly secret that will rock the foundations of an ancient civilization living beneath Barinkoff Academy. Phoenix doesn’t realize until it is too late that the closer she gets to both Demitri and Luka the more she is plunging them all into a centuries old feud.

Author Bio:
When Kate Evangelista was told she had a knack for writing stories, she did the next best thing: entered medical school. After realizing she wasn't going to be the next Doogie Howser, M.D., Kate wandered into the Literature department of her university and never looked back. Today, she is in possession of a piece of paper that says to the world she owns a Literature degree. To make matters worse, she took Master's courses in creative writing. In the end, she realized to be a writer, none of what she had mattered. What really mattered? Writing. Plain and simple, honest to God, sitting in front of her computer, writing. Today, she has four completed Young Adult novels.


Ready for the Taste Excerpt?

I sat up and followed Calixta’s gaze upward. I rubbed my eyes. I didn’t know what I was seeing at first. A statue? ­My brain refused to snap together coherent thoughts. I didn’t realize I’d fallen so close to one of the garden benches until I stared up at the boy that sat on one. He was strikingly beautiful. His tumble of blonde hair curled just above his sculpted cheekbones. He wore a silk shirt and a loosened cravat, like he’d become bored while dressing and decided to leave himself in disarray. His ivory skin and frozen position was what had me mistaking him for something carved from marble by Michelangelo. Then he sighed—a lonely, breathy proof of life. If I had to imagine what Lucifer looked like before he fell from heaven, the boy on the bench would certainly fulfill that image. My brain told me I had to look away, but I couldn’t.

“Luka,” Calixta said again, her voice unsure, almost nervous. It no longer contained the steel and bite she had threatened me with, which made me wonder who the boy was.

He leaned on his hands and crossed his legs, all the while keeping his eyes fixed on the night sky. His movements spoke of elegance and control. I’d encountered many people with breeding before, but his took on the air of arrogance and self­assuredness of someone used to getting what he wanted when he wanted it.

I only realized I’d been holding my breath when my lungs protested. I exhaled. My heart sputtered and restarted with a vengeance. Luka tore his gaze away from the stars and settled it on me. I’d expected pitch­black irises, like the other Night Students, but blue ice stared back at me.

“Human,” he whispered.

He reached out, and with a finger, followed an invisible trail down my cheek. I stiffened. His touch, cooler than Demitri’s, caused warm sparks to blossom on my face. He lifted his finger to his lips and licked its tip. He might as well have licked me from the way my body shivered.

Luka’s curious gaze held mine. “Leave us,” he said, but not to me.

“But—” Calixta protested like a spoiled child.

He spoke in a language I hadn’t heard before, remaining calm yet firm. The words had a rolling cadence I couldn’t quite follow, like rumbling thunder in the distance. They contained a harsh sensuality. The consonants were hard and the vowels were long and lilting.

Footsteps retreated behind me.

Luka reached out again.

It took me a minute to realize he wanted to help me up. I hesitated. He smiled. I smiled back timidly and took his hand, completely dazzled. Even with my uniform soaked from melted snow, I didn’t feel cold—all my attention was on him and the way his callused hand felt on mine. Without moving much from his seated position, he helped me stand.

“What’s your name?” he asked. He had a voice like a familiar lullaby. It filled my heart to the brim with comfort.

I swallowed and tried to stop gawking. “Phoenix.”

“The bird that rose from the ashes.” Luka bent his head and kissed the back of my hand. “It’s a pleasure meeting you.”

My cheeks warmed. My head reeled, not knowing what to think. I couldn’t understand why I felt drawn to him. And the strange connection frightened me.

From behind, someone gripped my arms and yanked me away before I could sort out the feelings Luka inspired in me. I found myself behind a towering figure yet again. Recognizing the blue­black silk for hair tied at the nape, relief washed over me. Calixta hadn’t come back to finish me off.

Demitri’s large hand wrapped around my wrist. Unlike the night before, no calm existed in his demeanor. He trembled like a junky in need of a fix. The coiled power in his tense muscles vibrated into me.

“What are you doing here?” Demitri asked.

I didn’t know he’d spoken to me until I saw his expressionless profile. I sighed.

“Phoenix.”

I flinched. The ruthless way he said my name punched all the air out of me. “You owe me answers,” I said with as much bravado as I could muster.

“I owe you nothing.” He glared. “In fact, you owe me your life.”

“I don’t think so.”

Ignoring my indignation, he faced Luka, who’d remained seated on the bench during my exchange with Demitri. “Why is she with you, Luka?”

“I wasn’t going to taste her, if that’s what you’re implying,” Luka said. “Although, she is simply delicious. I wouldn’t mind if you left us alone.”

There it was again. Taste. The word that kept coming up between these Night Students and I was connected to it in an increasingly uncomfortable way. To taste meant to sample, but what? My flesh? They had to be joking because the alternative wasn’t funny.

“The sins of the father …” Demitri left his sentence unfinished.

Luka’s smile shifted into a snarl. “Obey my command.” His chin lifted. “Kneel.”

Demitri’s stance went rigid. His grip tightened around my wrist.

Okay, weird just got weirder. Why would Luka want Demitri to kneel before him? I thought back to Eli and the others bowing to Demitri when he questioned them, but they didn’t kneel. Seriously? Were they all living on a different planet or something?

“Kneel.” Luka’s detestable smirk made his features sinister rather than angelic.

The real Lucifer: a fallen angel.

Without letting go of my wrist, Demitri knelt down on one knee and bowed his head, his free hand flat at the center of his chest. “Your command has been obeyed,” he said formally.

Luka nodded once.

Demitri stood up and pulled me toward the school without telling me where we were going. Not having the time to thank Luka for saving me from Calixta, I risked a glance back. Luka smiled at me. His smile spoke of whispers, secrets, and promises to be shared on a later date.

I don't know about you, but I can't wait to get my hands on this book! Check out the trailer!

Check out my reviews of some of Kate Evangelista's books:

To learn more about Taste by Kate Evangelista check out the Website and visit her on Facebook and Twitter.

Book Review: Perilous Light by Alyssa Rose Ivy

Genre: Young Adult (Fantasy Romance)

Perilous Light is the second book in The Afterglow Trilogy by Alyssa Rose Ivy. Perilous Light takes place a year after Charlotte first goes through the gate in Beckoning Light. Charlotte, Kevin, and Liam try to resume their normal lives back in North Carolina while James stays as obnoxious as ever. When they receive news that they are urgently needed back in Energo, they face unexpected challenges and meet unusual people, but it's crucial they help the Resistance grow. Their lives depend on it.

Perilous Light followed Beckoning Light flawlessly. Like Beckoning Light, the story is told from both Charlotte and Kevin's point of view. In addition, Calvin also gets his point of view shown as well. I enjoyed his perspective. It gave you a glimpse of where he stands. Characters grow throughout the book, and you'll question some of their true allegiances. Perilous Light introduces you to new lands, new species, and new characters. They all come together and perfectly fit in with the direction of the story. Alyssa Rose Ivy has once again given us a wonderful novel, and the release of the third and final book in the trilogy, Enduring Light, can't get here fast enough. I'm still Team Liam!

Haven't read Beckoning Light yet? Check out my review.

To read more about this series and the author, visit Alyssa Rose Ivy's Blog. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

This book was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

Check back here on May 15, 2012 for our stop on The Afterglow Trilogy Tour! We'll be sharing an excerpt from Perilous Light!!

Check out my reviews of another book in this trilogy!

If you haven't done so already, you need to read Alyssa Rose Ivy's books!! While you're at it take a peek at my reviews too!

Book Review: The Shadow (Borrowing Abby Grace, #1) by Kelly Green

 

Genre: Young Adult (Mystery)

Abby Grace is a Shadow. That means she is placed in bodies of teenagers with major  problems. It's her job to solve those problems. When she's pushed in the life of, Brooke, a teenager who's been kidnapped, she doesn't know who she is or why she's there. She soon figures out that Brooke wasn't the only one who was kidnapped. Her brother is missing too.

When I first read the summary, I immediately thought of Quantum Leap, which was my favorite show growing up. I was excited to start reading this book, however I had a hard time getting into it. It is a short story, and I felt like by the time it really started to take off it was over. I would love to know more about the characters involved as well as have more details about what was going on. This is the first book in the series, so I'm sure you learn more as it progresses, but I would've liked a little something more to pull me into the plot. I didn't feel that connection.  I enjoyed Kelly Green's writing style. The cover is fantastic and fits perfectly with the book. When you have a few hours to spare, this is a nice little story to help you pass the time.

To learn more about Kelly Green and her books, visit her on Facebook and Twitter.

This book was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

You can also read this review on Examiner.

 

Book Review: Before You Go by Ella James

Genre: Young Adult (Contemporary Romance)

When Margo's father dies, she becomes an heiress to billions from her mother, whom she's only just met. She is sent to her mother's private island after terrorist threats to kidnap her for ransom money. Margo thinks the summer will be spent getting to know her mom, but when she arrives her mom is not only absent, but has no plans to arrive any time soon. Instead, she spends her days avoiding or arguing with the handsome Logan Greer who works for her mom on the island.

Margo and Logan have a love-hate relationship that is hormonally charged from the moment they meet. I enjoyed their stubbornness and arguing. While the story was entertaining, I would have liked some more drama surrounding the kidnappers and some more details as to what Logan accomplished or didn't accomplish with his family. This book is probably better suited for a more mature young adult audience. Before You Go was a pleasant little short story, perfect as a weekend or beach read.

To learn more about Ella James check out her blog and visit her on Facebook.

This book was sent to me from the author for review. The opinions are my own.

You can also read this review on Examiner.

 

Book Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Genre: Young Adult (Dystopian/Science Fiction)

It's time for Beatrice "Tris" to choose a faction where she will spend the rest of her life living and working. After taking an aptitude test to predetermine the best fit for her, she finds out that she doesn't really belong to any one faction. The factions are supposed to prevent evil and corruption, but Tris soon finds out her society isn't as perfect as they want the world to think.

Divergent blew me away. The world Veronica Roth created was well thought out, and as I read page by page, I found myself more and more involved in that World. Tris is a very believable female character. She's intelligent, stubborn, and funny. She even showed moments of insecurity. Who doesn't? Through these times, she remained strong and stood behind her beliefs even if they put her in danger. Four, is an equally impressive character. He is deep and mysterious with an inner and outer strength. The atmosphere is highly competitive, and you don't always know which characters can be trusted. The romance grew slowly, which I loved. I thought it made the story that much more realistic and added to the anticipation. Especially, within the setting of the story. Divergent is intense, brutal, moving, and at times shocking, but there are no words to describe how excellent it really is. I am super excited about what this young author will be writing for us in the future, and I'm impatiently counting down the days until the release of the sequel, Insurgent.

To learn more about Veronica Roth and her books, visit her blog. You can also find her on Twitter.

I won Divergent by Veronica Roth from Mug of Moxie’s Gratitude Giveaway Hop. The opinions are my own.

Check out my reviews of Insurgent(book 2) and Allegiant(book 3)

Teaser Tuesday: Before You Go by Ella James

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share  doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week is from Before You Go by Ella James:

"So." His low voice made her jump. She glanced up. His face was bleak. As was his tone when he asked, "How's it going?"

She froze with her fingers around her glass. How's it going? Surely he was making some joke, but his face was... well, still bleak.

She looked back at her plate. Pushed some grits around. It's terrible, she thought, and wanted to tell him he was why. She settled for "Fine".

Do you have a blog? Post a link to your Teaser Tuesday post in the comments. No blog? Post a Teaser in the comments anyway!