Release Day Launch!! A Review & Giveaway of Chosen by Paulina Ulrich

Chosen (Fighting Fate #1) by Paulina Ulrich

Genre: New Adult (Paranormal Romance)

Date Published: October 31, 2013
Publisher: Self

The Blurb:

Nothing can stand in the way of outspoken, rule-breaker-extraordinaire; Kaddy Richston...except destiny. Born with a spitfire personality and a take-no-nonsense attitude, Kaddy set her sights on being in a rock band and leaving her small Wyoming town along with the painful memories of her past. Kaddy knew she was a freak show with wildly colored hair and piercing gray eyes but was determined to do whatever it took to depart her broken childhood and make her own way.

But destiny had other plans for her.

The seemingly observant and mysterious Cole Huntington enters her life and becomes the bump in the road Kaddy is trying to pave for her future. Striking blue eyes, features to make any girl swoon, he's everything but the new-to-town bad boy. Calm, cool, and always collected, he plans on unraveling every one of Kaddy's dark secrets.

Hating him from the start and trying to fight her insane attraction to him, Kaddy is determined to undermine whatever intentions he has until she learns of a destiny she never asked for. Getting throw into a battle that's been raging for more than a thousand years, the fate of the world lies in Kaddy's hands as she learned just how different she is. The only person she can turn to for answers is the last person she'd want help from: the frustratingly attractive; Cole Huntington, who seemed to dislike her rule-breaking as much as she dislikes his rule-following.

My Review:

Chosen is the first book in the Fighting Fate Series by Paulina Ulrich. Kaddy has survived a rough life, and now she's not letting anyone tell her how to live it. She's a tough cookie. Cole is very by the book, but I think he's got this inner bad boy thing just waiting to get out. I guess we'll see. I enjoyed the bantering and arguing back and forth between Kaddy and Cole. They were entertaining and make a great duo. This is a good versus evil book, but it's up to Kaddy to choose sides. However, she's not going to let either side tell her what to do. This definitely adds to the intrigue of this book, and I'm very curious to see where this series goes.

The ARC of Chosen by Paulina Ulrich was provided to me by the InkSlinger PR for review. The opinions are my own.

The Excerpt:

“Kaddy, wait.” I heard Mike trailing me as I turned out of the Wheel Barrel.

 I pressed a hand to my temple and sighed. “Yeah?”

 “You okay? I know you didn’t get a lot of sleep last night.” Mike scratched the back of his head and looked down at me, worried. “Maybe some lunch will help.”

 “What I need is sleep, and what needs to happen is for me to stop having these stupid night terrors.” I leaned back against the hot brick building for a moment.

 “You can’t help it. It’s not your fault.” Mike leaned on his shoulder next to me, his hands deep in his apron pockets.

 “I know, but I hate it. Why can’t they stop?” I smacked my hand to my forehead and sighed. 

Against my palm, my skin felt too warm. Was I getting sick? Great. It was the last thing I needed. “Do I feel warm to you?” I dropped my hand and looked over at Mike, giving him permission to touch me with a simple confirmation from my eyes.

 Slowly raising his arm, the back of his hand pressed against my cheek. “Damn, Kaddy. You’re burning up! Do you feel all right?”

 I shrugged. I did feel all right, just a little warm. “I feel fine. I need some sleep. Promise to plan 

on going to bed early tonight?” I doubted he would keep this promise. He and I always stayed up late writing music.

 Mike got a playful glint in his eye. “You know I’m a night owl. No promises there.”

 I sighed and rolled my eyes. “We both are.”

 Mike still had his hand pressed against my cheek until it shifted up to tug his gray beanie down on my forehead. “Maybe it’s just my awesome hat that’s making you overheat. Who wears a beanie in August?” he joked and I playfully scowled at him as I readjusted the knitted beanie.

 “Oh, I’m sure that’s it,” I laughed and gave him a gentle punch on the arm.

 “Whoa.” He took a step back. “You been working out or something? That hurt.” Mike held his upper arm like I had socked it with everything I had. I stood there waiting with my “really?” look and raised my eyebrows in anticipation for his mischievous face to appear. If Mike was anything, he was a jokester. Just like I expected, a few seconds later, he cracked a smile on his lips and started laughing.

 “You always think your little jokes are hilarious!” Even when I rolled my eyes, I couldn’t stop his infectious laughter from causing me to laugh.

 “Kadster, we know I tell the best jokes. I eat sarcasm for breakfast every day.” He winked and wrapped his arm around my shoulders. I didn’t shy from his touch.

 “So do I, but no one but you finds anything I say funny.” I looked up at him as he walked me to the corner of the block, the direction of home. Only Mike called me the Kadster. Actually, he had a lot of nicknames for me and I didn’t mind it. He was one of the few I would let getaway with calling me things other than my name.

 “It’s because everyone is just jealous of the awesome friendship we’ve had since we were eight. 

Haters gonna hate.” He shrugged and his other hand pretended to dust off his shoulder. Mike was the only friend I counted on for anything. Long ago, we made a pact, and so far, he’s kept every word he promised to keep.

About the Author:
I love to write because if I didn’t then I wouldn’t be telling stories, I wouldn’t have gotten a degree in creative writing, and my insanely fluffy cat wouldn’t be “assisting” my writing by laying on the keyboard. I am the author of the Flightless Bird series (Flightless Bird, Broken Wings, Fair Feathered, & Timeless Sky) and the Fighting Fate series (Chosen). I was raised to big dream or don’t dream at all and my highly active imagination has been the cause behind many of my stories. I write because life wouldn't be as fun without the occasional break or two from reality. With my cat and a glass of iced tea nearby you can find me weaving stories and when I’m not writing, I’m out buying way too many cute shoes.

To learn more about Paulina Ulrich and her books, visit her blog.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

The Giveaway!!
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Cover Reveal! Prowl Trilogy by Amber Garza

Prowl (Prowl #1) by Amber Garza
Genre: Young Adult (Christian Thriller)
Presented by: As You Wish Tours
Cover Design by: White Rabbit Design and Creations
Banner Made by: Julia Hendrix

The Blurb:

Seventeen-year-old Mackenzie Smith is sent away to spend a boring summer at her grandma's. But then she meets Wesley. He tells her exactly what she wants to hear and has information about her past that no one else knows. It's almost like he can read her mind.

Only Wesley isn't who he seems.

By the time Mackenzie discovers his true identity it may be too late. She's in too deep and he won't let her go. Now Mackenzie must call on the strongest power of all in order to save her life.

Prowl Excerpt:

“Hello Kenzie.” 

He turned toward me. I gasped in horror. He was faceless. His face was a black hole with no eyes, nose or mouth, like a shadow. Was this what ghosts looked like? I thought for sure they’d be white like in the movies. “Oh, I’m sorry,” he said. “Is this better?” 

His face transformed before my eyes. Black turned into peach colored flesh. It stretched and bent to reveal a cartilage filled nose. Two eyes popped out, and ears broke through the side of his head. Lips, hair, a body, and clothes appeared. My mouth dropped open, and hung loosely as if it had come unhinged. I slapped my hand over it to keep from screaming. 

“You don’t need to scared,” he said. 

“How did you do that?” 

“You think that’s amazing? I can do much more than that.” 

I nodded, taking a deep breath. “I think that’s enough for me right now.” He moved toward me, crawling stealthily on the bed like a cat. I moved away from him until I was pinned against the wall. He smiled, revealing blood red gums and a perfect row of white teeth. His pupils were black, and the whites were filled with spidery red and purple veins. My body shook. 

“Why are you scared, Kenzie? Don’t you recognize me?” 

(click to see larger)

Entice (Prowl #2) by Amber Garza

Genre: Young Adult (Christian Thriller)

Presented by: As You Wish Tours

Cover Design by: White Rabbit Design and Creations

Banner Made by: Julia Hendrix

The Blurb:

Mackenzie returns home from the summer with her grandma, certain that Wesley is out of her life for good. Until the nightmares resurface, and strange things start to happen. Is Wesley back? When the danger escalates and threatens those closest to her, Mackenzie must fight to save them. Only this time the evil is more powerful, and Mackenzie is faced with an impossible decision. 

Only Wesley isn't who he seems.

By the time Mackenzie discovers his true identity it may be too late. She's in too deep and he won't let her go. Now Mackenzie must call on the strongest power of all in order to save her life.

Entice Excerpt:

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” I asked Tanner as I stared down at the foamy rush of water.

 “Breathtaking.” 

I glanced up at Tanner who was staring right at me with a look so intense it caused heat to rise up my neck and spill across my cheeks. Taking a deep breath, I averted my gaze. I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone with the intention of taking a couple photos. 

“So, you’re calling him, huh?” I tried to ignore the jealousy in Tanner’s voice; tried to tell myself it was just a figment of my imagination. I wanted to believe that Tanner only thought of me as a friend, and that he supported my relationship with Isaac. But deep down I knew that wasn’t true. 

I shook my head. “No, I was just going to take some pictures.” 

Relief swept over his features. He beamed at me. “Here, let me.” He grabbed the phone from my hand. Holding it out in front of us, he pressed his cheek to mine and snapped a shot. He was so close I could smell his aftershave lotion, and the sweat on his skin. My pulse quickened. My heart pounded in my chest. He turned to me, his face inches from mine. 

I froze, unable to move or even breathe. His face came closer and somewhere in the back of my mind, alarm bells went off. I knew I should step back, or push him away. But my feet stayed rooted to the ground, like I was a tree on the mountain, a permanent fixture. I could hear the blood rushing through my ears, feel the beating of my heart. The world around us stopped. It was as if we were the only people up here. Tanner’s eyes stared into mine. I swallowed hard, and kept my gaze even. 

(click to see larger)

Unveil (Prowl #3) by Amber Garza

Genre: Young Adult (Christian Thriller)

Presented by: As You Wish Tours

Cover Design by: White Rabbit Design and Creations

Banner Made by: Julia Hendrix

The Blurb:

Mackenzie is looking forward to her eighteenth birthday and upcoming high school graduation. Until an unwelcome visitor from her past appears, threatening her future plans. Will she ever be free? Armed with a new weapon and the boy she loves by her side, Mackenzie prepares to fight. She doesn't realize that she is about to step into the ultimate battle between good and evil, where the stakes are higher than ever before. 

Unveil Excerpt:

“What was that about?” Isaac asked when we got inside the house. 

“What?” 

“The way you said hi to your neighbor and then started looking in another direction and said hi again in a weird voice.” 

“Oh.” I smiled. 

“That’s just how I talk to kids.” 

“Why did you do it right now though?” His brows furrowed in a look of utter confusion. 

I was starting to get annoyed with this line of questioning. Can’t I say hi to a neighbor boy without getting the third degree? So what if I use an odd voice when talking to kids. Lots of people do. “Cause I was saying hi to the little boy.” 

“What little boy?” 

Cold slithered up my spine at Isaac’s tone. “The boy sitting next to Mrs. Kelley in the front yard.” 

“There was no boy with her.” 

I flung open the front door and raced outside, my heart thumping in my chest. Was I going crazy? I was sure I saw a little boy. 

Relief flooded me at the sight of the child still sitting in the grass. I gave Isaac a triumphant look. “See. Right there.” 

Isaac narrowed his eyes, staring in the direction I pointed. I expected an apology. Instead, he said, “Are you okay?” 

“Fine. Why are you acting so weird?” 

“Because there is no little boy there.” A chill brushed over my body, causing goose bumps to rise on my flesh. I glanced back at Mrs. Kelley who kept weeding, oblivious to our conversation. She also seemed not to notice the child, even though he practically sat on her legs. The boy’s neck craned to look at me, but he still didn’t smile. 

Fearful, I raced back in my house. Why did I see him if no one else did? Who was he? And what was he doing next door? 

(click to see larger)

About the Author:

Amber Garza is the author of Young Adult paranormal and contemporary romance. She has had a passion for writing since she was a little girl, making books out of notebook paper and staples. Amber lives in California with her amazing husband and two hilarious children who provide her with enough material to keep her writing for years. 

To learn more about Amber Garza and her books, visit her website.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

Because the Night Blog Tour!!

Because the Night (The Night Songs Collection #1) by Kristen Strassel

Genre: New Adult (Paranormal Romance) 

Date Published: November 5, 2013
Publisher: Foreword Literary

The Blurb:

Immortal Dilemma is the hottest band in the Las Vegas vampire rock scene. They draw insatiable fans from around the globe, thanks to a supernatural attraction called Bloodlust. Tristan craved such an opportunity to fill his empty mortal life, and now he has eternity to earn his place along the legends of rock n roll debauchery.


Callie always feared that Tristan’s excesses would get him into trouble, but she never thought they’d lead him to immortality. To reconnect with him, she must weave her way through a world not only she had no idea existed, but does not welcome her.


Blade turned down a spot in Immortal Dilemma after learning what he must sacrifice for that lifestyle. He finds Callie a refreshing change from the girls in the vampire rock scene. When Callie drags Blade back into the world of Immortal Dilemma, his resistance drives her into the waiting arms of Tristan, who shows her the true meaning of Bloodlust.


But the very things that Callie fights so hard to save are the very things that fight to destroy her.

Review coming soon!

The Excerpt:

The next thing I knew we were in his apartment.  I knew it from TV, the huge living area, the plush red chairs, the huge floor to ceiling windows that overlooked the city.  Still, actually being here was a different thing all together. God, I hoped we weren’t being filmed. That wasn’t constant, was it?
Tristan spun me towards him. His hands were so cold. Why hadn’t I noticed that before?  I could hardly breathe. 
“What are you doing here, Callie?”
My heart sank to my knees. This wasn’t the greeting I hoped for. It was more of an inquisition. “I’m on vacation.”
“Why here? You’re not old enough to have fun yet.” He jerked his head toward the window. “Out there, anyway.”
“I have a fake ID.” I protested. But I knew that wasn’t what he meant.  “And I wanted to see you.”
“You shouldn’t have come here.” His face darkened.
“You don’t want me here?”  I felt tears welling up in my eyes.  No, I couldn’t cry.  Not now.
“Oh, I do,” a slow grin spread over his face, but it had an edge. “But you shouldn’t be here.”  His slid his tongue over his teeth as he waited for my answer to his original question, settling on one very sharp tooth, playing with it, daring me to notice.
I winced, like I had been stung.  I hated those stupid fangs. Why didn’t he take them out after the show?
I didn’t have time to process it before he was suddenly on top of me.  His hands closed on my arms, and he pinned me against the window with my feet dangling in midair, unable to even struggle. Icy cold radiated from his body like I was standing near an iceberg. He paused, fangs like icicles inches from my face, but no breath, not even freezing cold breath caressed my face.
I couldn’t even open my mouth to scream.  All the things I wanted to ask him, all the things I wanted to say, they didn’t matter now.
It was true. God, it was all true.
Whatever he was, he certainly wasn’t human.  My eyes were wide and frozen, staring into his, unblinking. I wanted to lose myself in their dark depths, swirling with danger and desire.
“Didn’t you know what I was when you came here?” he finally broke the silence; loosening his hold on me just enough that I slid down the window.  He cocked his head thoughtfully, still grinning, and stroked my neck with one cool finger. 
He enjoyed this.
I wanted to tell him to get the hell away from me, but I couldn’t.  He made my heart race and sent a shiver down my spine.  Even in his monster form.

Week One

Oct. 21st - Reading In Twilight - Review + Interview
Oct. 22nd - Magical Urban Fantasy Reads - Character Interview
Oct. 23rd - Pen and Muse - Interview
Oct. 24th - Curling Up With A Good Book - Guest Post
Oct. 25th - BookHounds - Review

Week Two

Oct. 28th - Urban Fantasy Land - Guest Post
Oct. 29th - What's Beyond Forks - Excerpt
Oct. 30th - The Girl in a Cafe - Review
Oct. 31st - Alphas Authors & Books Oh My  - Review + Interview
Nov. 1st - Moonlight Gleams - Review + Guest Post

About the Author:
Kristen shares a birthday with Steven Tyler and Diana Ross.  She spends each day striving to be half as fabulous as they are.  She’s worn many hats, none as flattering as her cowboy hat: banker, retail manager, fledgling web designer, world’s worst cocktail waitress, panty slinger, now makeup artist and author.  She loves sunshine, live music, the middle of nowhere, and finding new things to put in her house.  Because The Night is the first book from The Night Songs Collection.
Kristen is represented by Pam van Hylckama Vlieg of Foreword Literary.

To learn more about Kristen Strassel and her books, visit her blog.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.
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Book Blast! Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala

Knowing Vera (Chance for Love #3) by Rachelle Ayala

Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance)
Date Published: October 3, 2013
Publisher: World Literary Press

The Blurb:
Some secrets are best untold.
Vera Custodio has never fallen in love, though she has strong feelings for her friend and sometimes lover, Zach Spencer. Long-forgotten memories resurface when Vera discovers Zach’s mother was the woman her father supposedly murdered many years ago.
After losing his leg, former triathlete Zach Spencer reevaluates his life—and realizes he’s falling in love with Vera. When she ends their relationship, Zach is determined to prove his love and follows her to Australia in search of the killer.
Caught between a web of family secrets and a deranged adversary, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. Love blossoms, but the truth explodes everything Vera knows about herself. Will she close her heart forever or risk it all for a shot at happily-ever-after?

About the Author:
Rachelle Ayala is the author of dramatic fiction crossing genres and boundaries featuring strong but flawed characters. She writes emotionally challenging stories and is not afraid of controversial topics. However, she is an optimist and laces her stories with romance and hope.
Rachelle Ayala has written four novels. Michal’s Window is a powerful and emotional journey as lived through the eyes of Princess Michal, King David’s first wife. Broken Build is a story of redemption and healing where a man learns to love and trust the woman who destroyed his life. Hidden Under Her Heart is a heartfelt love story mixed with controversy over difficult decisions.
Her latest is Knowing Vera , a steamy romantic suspense involving family secrets, disability, and an unsolved murder.

The Giveaway!!
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To learn more about Rachelle Ayala and her books, visit her website.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

Breaking the Storm Blitz!

Breaking the Storm (Credence Curse #1) by Sedona Venez 

Genre: New Adult (Paranormal Romance)
Date Published:  August 6, 2013
Publisher: Self

The Blurb:
I wanted Knox. There was no need to deny that fact.

Knox was the type of guy you gravitated to, who stood out in the crowd. It wasn’t just his classically good-looking features and perpetual five o’clock shadow. It was his raw energy that entranced me, that made me feel like a giggly, fumbling high school girl, happy to be in his presence.

Yes, there’s no denying it, front man Knox Gunner was a sexy badass.

It didn’t matter that he initially thought I was some bored, rich girl trying to live out some wild fantasy of being with a starving musician. It was uncomplicated and that’s what we both wanted. At least that’s what I convinced myself. I wasn’t ready to admit to myself that my feelings for Knox were getting dangerously deep—waiting to lay siege on my heart. I was falling for him… and this was dangerous. The rules were clear: falling in love would obligate me to expose what I truly was, setting in motion his slow march to death.

The Excerpt:

Giving him a playful pout while trailing my fingers across his chest, I said, “That's what you say, rocker. But once you win tonight and move on to rocker hall of fame, I’ll be nothing but a distant memory.” I wiggled my eyebrows. “But hopefully a very hot one.”

He grabbed my chin roughly. “You don’t honestly believe that, right?”

My smile was wobbly. Shit! I was doing everything that I promised I wouldn’t do, getting attached. Dammit! I couldn’t even do this right. How hard was it to stick to straight-up sex without all the emotional attachment? Obviously, really hard because here I was, falling straight into the deep end of the relationship pool, which is an absolute no-no. Double damn. I sighed loudly, debating on whether I should be brutally honest, but I settled for just honest. “Knox, men disappoint.” All the time, I deliberately left unsaid.

His eyes were hard when he said, “I don’t give a shit about the men from your past. This is about you and me. And regardless of what happens tonight, I'll still want you, Storm. Fame won’t ever change that.” He grabbed the back of my neck, squeezing softly. “You know that we can have something good here, right?”

My heart raced. I resisted the urge to lower the walls around my heart, reaching for something unattainable. I tried not to wish deep into my soul that things between us had a snowball’s chance in hell of turning out all sweet like in the movies. But they wouldn’t, couldn’t. Love was a burden.

Reaching up, I tried to smooth away his scowl. “Nothing lasts forever, Knox. I graduate in a couple of months.” I paused, swallowing the painful lump of emotions tightening my throat. “And you have to move on and pursue your music career. All I want for you is success… for people to hear that awesome voice and songwriting talent.”

“And why can’t you fit into that equation?” He combed his fingers through my thick, wild mass of auburn curls.

About the Author:
T.L. Clarke writing as Sedona Venez

TLC is a NYC girl (go Brooklyn!) and is obsessed with books. She also has a borderline unhealthy obsession with her iPad. Her favorite books… anything with rockers, hot alpha men and wolf shifters!

Her true love for writing blossomed when she began to write New Adult and Adult novels with romance, music, and sexy men as her alter ego "Sedona Venez".

Find me on pinterest to get some great Breaking the Storm inspiration!! http://www.pinterest.com/tlcauthor

To learn more about Sedona Venez and her books, visit her website.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

The Giveaways!
One lucky person will win one (1) ebook copy of Breaking the Storm. Open internationally. Goog Luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway Grand prize giveaway

Prizes (open internationally): -
$50 Amazon Gift Cards
a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Book Review: Until I Die by Amy Plum

Until I Die (Revenants #2) by Amy Plum

Genre: Young Adult (Paranormal Romance)

Date Published: May 8, 2012
Publisher: Harper Teen

The Blurb:

Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.

As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake—and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

In Die for Me, Amy Plum created a captivating paranormal mythology with immortal revenants and a lush Paris setting. Until I Die is poised to thrill readers with more heart-pounding suspense, spellbinding romance, and a cliff-hanger ending that will leave them desperate for the third and final novel in the series.

My Review:

Until I Die is the second book in the Revenants Series by Amy Plum. This book was every bit as great as the last one. It's a world that completely draws me in. Vincent is such a good boyfriend to Kate. He's really trying to avoid dying for Kate's sake, and he's resorted to some alternate methods. Kate has a plan of her own too. There were moments where the plot was a tad slow, but then there were other moments that more than made up for it. Kate still refers to Vincent as her dead boyfriend many times. While I guess technically the Revenants are dead, it's really hard for me to see them as dead or undead. They have a heart beat(most of the time) and they are warm. They seem very much alive. To me, they have a gift that allows them to come back to life after saving someone else. This is a fiction that I would love to be real! There was a character that I didn't trust from the first moment they appeared on the page, and my instincts were right. Even though I figured them out pretty quick, the plot still took a turn or two towards the unexpected and left us with quite a cliffhanger. Whew!

The Book Trailer:

Haven't read the other books in this trilogy? Read my reviews!

Check out my reviews for the After the End Duology by Amy Plum!

About the Author:
Amy Plum is the author of the International Bestsellers DIE FOR ME (Indie Next List pick, Romance Times top pick, and recipient of a starred review from School Library Journal), UNTIL I DIE, and IF I SHOULD DIE. The books have been translated into eleven foreign languages. The trilogy is accompanied by an eNovella entitled DIE FOR HER.

Amy grew up in Birmingham, Alabama before venturing further afield to Chicago, Paris, London and New York. An art historian by training, she can be found on most days either daydreaming or writing (or both) in a Parisian café.

After being raised in Birmingham, Alabama, in a rather restrictive environment, AMY PLUM escaped to Chicago to an even more restrictive environment at a university that expelled people for dancing. (And where she was called to the dean’s office for “wearing too much black”.) After all of that restrictiveness, she was forced to run far far away, specifically to Paris, France, where she only wore black and danced all she wanted.

After five years in Paris, she ventured to London, where she got an M.A. in Medieval Art History, specializing in Early Sienese Painting (1260-1348) mainly because it promised almost no hope of finding a paying job afterward.

Amy managed to find work in the world of art and antiques in New York. But after almost a decade of high-pressure lifestyle in the Big Apple, she swapped her American city for a French village of 1300 inhabitants.

After signing with HarperCollins for the DIE FOR ME series, Amy left her job as an English professor at Tours University to write full-time. She now lives in Paris with her two kids and big red dog Ella.

She is a huge fan of Edward Gorey and Maira Kalman (and collects both of their books/art), as well as David Sedaris, Amadeo Modigliani, and Ira Glass.

Check out videos and extras from Amy at Revenant Central.

To learn more about Amy Plum and her books, visit her website.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

Book Review: Redemption by Courtney Nuckels & Rebecca Gober

Redemption (Night Marchers #2) by Courtney Nuckels & Rebecca Gober
Genre: Young Adult (Paranormal Romance/ Hawaiian Mythology)
Date Published: February 12, 2012
Publisher: Self

The Blurb:

He would endure a thousand deaths for her, but would she let him? Torn between two men that love her, Emma Townsend is forced to make choices no seventeen-year-old should ever be forced to make. With her friends at her side, Emma embarks on an adventure full of danger, deceit and betrayal as she tries to redeem Kai, the man who made the ultimate sacrifice for her. When Emma discovers that setting a Night Marcher free is no easy task, she is forced to make a very unlikely alliance. How far will Emma be willing to go to save Kai, and will she be able to do so before it's too late?

My Review:

Redemption is the second book in the Night Marchers series by Courtney Nuckels & Rebecca Gober. This is one of those books that you really need to read the first book to fully understand. It did give you some reminders of what happened in the last book, which is helpful if it's been a while since you read the last book. I thought Emma had figured out what  or I should say who she wanted at the end of the last book, but I found that she was still conflicted. So, she had some emotions she had to sort through on top of everything else within this book. Plus, now she has Kao to deal with. I'm so darn intrigued by the Night Marchers. There seems to be more to them than we originally knew from the first book. Some of the things I learned makes their reality that more more horrifying for everyone involved. We see more of Kaylee in this story. Kaylee is a hoot. Sometimes I wanted to slap her and sometimes I wanted to hug her. Mostly, I wanted to hug her. I can't give too much more detail, because I don't want to let a spoiler slip, but if you enjoyed Night Marchers you'll definitely like Redemption. You'll probably even like it better. Who knew Hawaii was such a dark and mysterious place?!

Redemption by Courtney Nuckels & Rebecca Gober was provided to me by the authors for review. The opinions are my own.

Check out my review of book 1, Night Marchers!

About the Authors:
Rebecca and Courtney are downhome country girls powered by chocolate and other random late night cravings. Coined in southern twang they bring new meaning to the word y'all. BFI's since the 6th grade, with a knack for getting into sticky situations, has resulted in countless ideas to write about for years to come.

To learn more about Courtney Nuckels & Rebecca Gober and their books, visit their website.You can also find Courtney and Rebecca on Twitter.

 

Panic Tour! A Review of Panic by J.A. Huss

Panic (Rook and Ronin #3) by J.A. Huss

Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance) *Mature Content* 

Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language usage

Date Published: October 15, 2013
Publisher: Science Future Press

The Blurb:

Rook is chasing her dream—film school and a chance at a life beyond the one she ran from six months ago. But before she can become the girl she wants to be, she must deal with the girl she left behind.

Ronin is also chasing his dream—a family of his own and a life away from erotic modeling. And he too, has a past he’s trying to forget. A past that makes Rook question everything about their life together.

Lies, secrets, and shocking truths will rock the foundation Rook and Ronin have built. Can they put the past behind them and move forward together? Or is this just another too good to be true relationship that will crash and burn in the end?

My Review:

Panic is the third book in the Rook and Ronin series by J.A. Huss. If you haven't read Tragic or Manic yet, you really need to before reading this book. Rook's back story is so detailed within this series. You truly get to know her and watch her figure out who she is. With each book you learn more and more about Ronin, Ford, and Spencer too. I knew they all had some secrets. I just never would have guessed the extent of some of them. All of these guys are equally intriguing and alluring, and for entirely different reasons. Ford, who I didn't expect to like much at all when he first came on the scene, is now my complete favorite. He actually started to grow on me during Manic, and now I really like him in a big way. There is something that feels forbidden and dangerous about him. Contrary to popular belief among the characters, I think Ford feels very deeply. He just feels differently and doesn't let it show often. I'm not too keen on what we know about how he conducts his bedroom business, but I can't help but like him anyway. I love the things he says and how his mind works. It seems like my favorite keeps changing with each book. So, I've decided, I'll just have to love them all. This would be a super fun and thrilling team to be a part of. There is so much growth among all of the characters. None of them are the same people now that they were in Tragic. There has never been a series where I have been attached to the supporting characters as much as the main characters. This is a first for me, and I love it.

I'm surprised with how much is really going on is within this book. The series as a whole has surprised me. It's not just all about the romance anymore. Actually, it never really was. The chemistry between Rook and Ronin is what initially lured me in, in Tragic, but there are so many other things that are woven into the plot making this series completely addictive and impossible to put down. Like the rest of the Rook and Ronin Series, Panic is a definite guilty pleasure, but it's so much more. It's an experience!

Also, I was excited to find out that Ford and Spencer will be getting their own books as well. I'm on cloud 9. I can't wait!

The ARC of  Panic by J.A. Huss was provided to me by the Xpresso Book Tours for review. The opinions are my own.

The Panic Book Trailer

Check out my reviews of the previous books in the Rook and Ronin series!

About the Author:
J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label).

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers. Check out my interview with J.A. Huss!

To learn more about J.A. Huss and her books, visit her website.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.

The Giveaway!
Win your choice of one (1) ebook copy of Tragic or Manic - ePub or Mobi only.  Open internationally. Good luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Unmaking Marchant Cover Reveal!!

Before we reveal the cover of Unmaking Marchant, check out the previous two books in the Love Inc series by Ella James!!

Selling Scarlett (Love Inc #1) by Ella James
Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance) 18+
Date Published: April 14, 2013
Publisher: Barkley's Books
Check out my review!

The Blurb:
Elizabeth DeVille doesn't belong at a party like this—one where the gowns cost more than her Camry and cigars run higher than her grad school utility bills. Dragged out of seclusion by her best friend Suri, Elizabeth is merely playing dress-up, rubbing elbows with a crowd that banished her troubled family years ago.

Hunter West is tired. Tired of parties, tired of pretending, and tired of trying to right a wrong that haunts him every day. Bourbon heir and professional poker player by day, by night Hunter is gambling with his life in a high-stakes game of crime and blackmail.

When Elizabeth stumbles into Hunter's den of vices, she's a light in the darkness, a flame in the void. And, just like everything he touches, Hunter mars her in a record time. To rectify the damage done, Elizabeth needs money she doesn't have, and she's come up with a foolproof way to get it.

Follow Elizabeth—code-named Scarlett—to the lush Nevada brothel where she'll auction her virginity and risk the only thing that's not for sale: her heart. The highest bidder is a familiar face, with wicked hands and the devil's mouth. And a secret so dark that it could cost her life.

***RECOMMENDED FOR READERS 17+ DUE TO SEXUALITY AND MATURE LANGUAGE.***

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Taming Cross (Love Inc #2) by Ella James
Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance)

Date Published: August 20, 2013

Publisher: Barkley's Books
Check out my review!

The Blurb:

Book 2 in the Love Inc. Series.

For twenty-three years, Cross Carlson was a playboy. You know the type. Tall, dark, and wealthy. Blue-eyed. Charming. He seemed to have it all so easy. But Cross was harboring a terrible secret - one that helped ruin the life of an innocent girl and almost ended his own.

Finally out of the hospital, Cross is flailing, scarred in both body and mind and stifled by the weight of the secret he still keeps. The only way to absolution lies in a Mexican convent, and going there could cost him everything.

If there's anyone who knows what it's like to screw up big time, it's Meredith Kinsey. Just a few years ago, Merri was an ordinary girl with a job at her college newspaper and white picket fence kind of dreams. Now she's holed up in a Mexican convent, hiding from a drug lord who thinks he owns her.

What happens when the only way out of hell is with the son of the man who put you there? They say love conquers all, but does it really?

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Ready for the cover of book three????

Unmaking Marchant (Love Inc #3) by Ella James

Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance) 18+
Expected Release Date: December 4, 2013
Publisher: Barkley's Books

The Blurb:

Marchant Radcliffe, owner of the exclusive Love Inc. brothel outside Vegas, is no stranger to darkness. He lost his sister in childhood and his parents in college. Since his best friend helped him finance the Love Inc. ranch almost ten years ago, Marchant has drowned himself in business—and he’s thrived, despite the heavy secret that has plagued him since his parents’ deaths. 

Then, after ten years of good fortune, Marchant’s skeletons start to peek out of the closet, tossing him down a trail of ruin that begins with arson and could end with murder. Because he’s kept his struggles private, he has no one to pull him back from the brink.

Except for Suri Dalton. 

After a breakup with her longtime fiancé, Suri, the daughter of one of Silicon Valley’s tech tycoons, has nowhere to go except her BFF’s new penthouse in Las Vegas. The last thing Suri is looking for is a man, but after drowning her woes in wine on the flight over, she stumbles into a torrid make out session with a beautiful stranger—who just so happens to be Marchant Radcliffe, a playboy and a literal pimp.

Despite an immediate attraction, Suri writes Marchant off as exactly the sort of guy she should avoid. Until Love Inc. goes up in flames, Marchant winds up at the bottom of a swimming pool, and Suri is the only one around to pull him out.

What happens when what you see isn’t what you get? What do you do when destiny is too alluring to resist and too dangerous to survive?

(Click image to see full size)

About the Author:
Ella James is a Colorado author who writes teen and adult romance. She is happily married to a man who knows how to wield a red pen, and together they are raising a feisty two-year-old who will probably grow up believing everyone's parents go to war over the placement of a comma. Ella's books have been listed on numerous Amazon bestseller lists, including the Amazon Top 100; two were listed among Amazon's Top 100 Young Adult Ebooks of 2012.

To learn more about Ella James and her books, check out Ella James' blog and visit her on Goodreads, Facebook and Twitter.

Book Review: Last Call by Michele G. Miller

Last Call by Michele G. Miller
Genre: Adult Fiction (Contemporary Romance) 18+

Date Published: October 21, 2013
Publisher: Self

The Blurb:

“You are cordially invited…”

Four words that spark the fear of God into any gently bred, single southern woman.

When Savannah Guthry receives an invitation to her cousin’s wedding back home in Charleston, South Carolina, her first thoughts aren’t of flowers and dresses. Instead, she's reminded of the groom: her first love and the reason she ended up at a college 500 miles away from home.

Determined to show up and dazzle not only her ex but her spoiled cousin too, Savannah allows her friends to set her up on a series of dates looking for Mr. Right. Wrapped up in her memories of the past and the drama of the present, Savannah doesn't recognize a pattern in the seemingly random events that occur around her. There is a dangerous threat looming in the shadows, and if she's not careful, she might lose more than Mr. Right.

**This book is a New Adult Romantic Suspense. It is intended for mature (18+) audiences due to sexual situations and mild language**

My Review:

Last Call is the second novel I've read by Michele G. Miller, and I'm happy to say that she is very quickly becoming one of my favorites. She tells a story so well you feel like you're right there with her characters, feeling all their emotions. Last Call was no exception. First of all, the story takes place mostly in Tennessee. Bonus points right there! *wink* I expected it to be a light hearted story about a girl who doesn't want to go to a wedding alone for all the usual reasons, but really, even though the upcoming wedding sets things in motion, the event itself only played a small part in the long scheme of things. There was so much more involved. There was family issues, unfinished business, secrets, danger, not to mention a smoldering new romance on the horizon. It wasn't all serious though. There were many moments that gave me a giggle, especially in regards to Savannah's many ill fated dates. Savannah and Gage were wonderful characters, and they are simply adorable together. They made me smile. I enjoyed Savannah's spunk, and Gage? Oh my! You will love Gage, but can we trust him? I'm not telling! Last Call was full of romantic anticipation, which is one of my favorite things in a book. It just keeps me wanting more. And more is still what I want from these characters, so I was thrilled to read on the author's blog that there will, in fact, be another book!

Last Call by Michele G. Miller was provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.

Check out my reviews of other books by this amazing author!

About the Author:
Having grown up in both the cold, quiet town of Topsham, Maine and the steamy, southern hospitality of Mobile, Alabama, Michele is something of a enigma.  She is an avid Yankees fan, loves New England, being outdoors and misses snow.  However she thinks southern boys are hotter, Alabama football is the only REAL football out there and sweet tea is the best thing this side of heaven and her children’s laughter!

Her family, a doting husband and three awesome  minions, have planted their roots in the middle of Michele’s two childhood homes in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Never Let You Fall is Michele’s first novel and she is beyond thrilled to have finally followed up on a dream she has held for over 20 years!  God willing there will be many many more books to follow.

To learn more about Michele G. Miller and her books, visit her blog.You can also find her on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter.