How do ideas choose their author?

People ALWAYS ask, "How do you get your ideas?" If you're an author, you probably get this question A LOT.  Right? Right?  But that is a very invalid question in my opinion.  I didn't sit down and think "Hmmm, I'm gonna be a writer. What should I write about?" No, no, no!

I sat down one day and my brain said "Oh my goodness here is this brilliant idea. Take it, write it, one day get it published.  Also here are some characters and a place for it to happen and also here is some really cool dialogue you can throw in there. Good luck!"  And I thought "What just happened? My brain things I'm a writer? Are you serious? Do I look like a writer?" And my brain replied with "Yeah, you do look like a writer. Now shut up and write down these ideas or you will make me forget and then we can't write their stories!" And all I could think was "Whose stories?" And my brain is sighing now.  "You are such an idiot! Them, these characters speaking to you! Who else would I be talking about?"  And so at that point, completely lost and freaked out but didn't continue arguing. I sat down, shut up, and wrote!

So it wasn't a "Ohh I want to write! Now I need ideas."  It was a "Ohhh here are some ideas. Crap, now I have to write!"  And the adventure began!

So back to my original point, how did the stories choose their authors? Where were you, what were you doing, and what story idea inspired you to write?

For me?  I was thinking about a very hilarious memory and realized it would make for a really cute story.  (Think Me + My younger sister + My Super cute crush walking by = Hilarious moment for me, embarrassing moment for Crush, and semi-shocked/horrified/can't help but laugh moment for my sister) so I decided I would write it.  And guess what? It was horrible! I had one scene but no plot, no characters, no story.

It kinda snowballed from there.  I decided that the scene was really cute and I would really like to write it for a book one day.  Next thing I know, I am going to a writing meeting every Tuesday night at the library.  After that, I started another book, a book that in January I finally submitted to publishers.  And between then and now, I had so many stories floating around I couldn't keep up.


So again I leave you with a question, how did the stories you're writing choose you as their author?

Book tour: Insight ~ A Book Review

 ~ INSIGHT BEHOLDERS, BOOK ONE ~ YOUNG ADULT / FANTASY ~  TERRON JAMES  ~ 

ON SALE: JUNE 1

James has masterfully crafted the mystical land of Appernysia, a  world brimming with rich history and magic that readers of all types will find delight in discovering. Rumors are surging through Appernysia that a Beholder has been born,  the first wielder of True Sight in over a millennium.

Seventeen-year-old Lon Marcs discovers he has been blessed—or  cursed—with this gift. He cannot control the power of True Sight and  feels it killing him with each passing day. He realizes that the only people who might possess the knowledge to save his life are the sworn  enemies of his king. To obtain their help, Lon would have to journey into exile, leaving behind his village, family, and beloved Kaylen.

Although this is the hardest decision Lon has ever made, it is only  the first of many that will test his strength and challenge his interpretation of right and wrong.

My Review: 

This book . . . this book has left me speechless. I love it! Simply put, I LOVE it! Insight is truly insightful. Terron is able to bring these characters to life, he brings out things, details I would have never imagined before. The relationships in the story are touching, amazing, completely believable.

I kept thinking that I would stop and go do some other things before reading more but each time I ended one chapter the next just called and forced me to read the whole book in one sitting.

Insight if full of adventure and oh my goodness the feels! There are so many of them. Terron has written a masterpiece and I can only say that I am dying to read more!!!

 ~ Facebook ~ Blog/Website ~ Twitter ~  Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble  ~ Blog Tour ~ 

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Trailer Reveal: Branded

 ~ Title: Branded ~ Author: Abi Ketner & Missy Kalicicki ~ Release Date: June 28, 2013 ~

~  Genre: Mature Young Adult, Dystopian ~ Reveal Host: Lady Amber's Tours ~ 

Book Description:

Twenty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him.  In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the  Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.  Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I've been accused of a  crime I didn't commit and now the Hole is my new home.  

Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.  

Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win. The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.  I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.  My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.

Meet the authors! 

Abi Ketner Is a registered nurse with a passion for novels, the beaches of St. John, and  her Philadelphia Phillies. A talented singer, Abi loves to go running and spend lots of  time with her family. She currently resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband,  triplet daughters and two very spoiled dogs.

Melissa Kalicicki received her bachelor’s degree from Millersville University in 2003.  She married, had two boys and currently lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Aside from  reading and writing, her interests include running and mixed martial arts. She also  remains an avid Cleveland sports fan. 

Abi and Missy met in the summer of 1999 at college orientation and have been best  friends ever since. After college, they added jobs, husbands and kids to their lives, but  they still found time for their friendship. Instead of hanging out on weekends, they went  to dinner once a month and reviewed books. What started out as an enjoyable hobby has  now become an incredible adventure.

 ~ Website & Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~  Goodreads ~ 

 ~ Book Trailer ~ 

Book Bomb - A Walk in the Abyss

ORCS! GREYSHALKS! AND GIANTS! Prepare yourselves, intrepid reader, for three complete novelettes set in the Abyss Walker world of author Shane Moore. In this anthology you shall read “No Tusks” by Paul Genesse, the disgustingly graphic orc story—not for children—(You have been warned!); then a tale about a young Bigfoot, or more accurately, a greyshalk trying to find his place in the world in: “A Kudekah to Remember” by Paul Genesse and Shane Moore; and finally, a truly hilarious story about a bumbling giant in: “Mungo the Undying” by Patrick M. Tracy. You’ll also be treated to a short story from a very unique point of view—an arrow in flight: “Unerring” by Patrick S. Tomlinson; and as a bonus, an excerpt from the novella, “The Wererat’s Tale III: The Collar of Perdition” by Patrick S. Tomlinson, which was written from an outline penned by the creator of the Abyss Walker World, Shane Moore himself. Orcs, greyshalks, and giants (and wererats) will never be the same! You will love this book especially if you enjoyed the Orcs novel series by the awesome Stan Nicholls: Orcs: Army of Shadows; Orcs: Bad Blood, or The Thousand Orcs (Forgotten Realms: The Hunter's Blades Trilogy, Book 1) by New York Times’ bestselling author R.A. Salvatore; or Queen of the Orcs: Kings Property by Morgan Howell. If you’re a game player or game master, and enjoyed The Slayer’s Guide To Orcs by Matt Forbeck and Ralph Horsley you will love this.

But the book: Amazon ~ Like the page:  Facebook

INTRODUCTION

Orcs! Greyshalks! And Giants!

Prepare yourselves, intrepid reader, for three complete novelettes set in the Abyss Walker world of author Shane Moore. In this anthology you shall read “No Tusks” by Paul Genesse, the disgustingly graphic orc story—not for children—(You have been warned!); then a tale about a young Sasquatch, or more accurately, a greyshalk trying to find his place in the world in: “A Kudekah to Remember” by Paul Genesse and Shane Moore; and finally, a truly hilarious story about a bumbling giant in: “Mungo the Undying” by Patrick M. Tracy. You’ll also be treated to a short story from a very unique point of view—an arrow in flight: “Unerring” by Patrick S. Tomlinson; and as a bonus, an excerpt from the novella, “The Wererat’s Tale III: The Collar of Perdition” by Patrick S. Tomlinson, which was written from an outline penned by the creator of the Abyss Walker World, Shane Moore himself. Orcs, greyshalks, and giants (and wererats) will never be the same!

Release Day Blitz: Promised by Michelle Turner

Title: Promised ~ Author: MIchelle Turner ~ Genre: Young Adult ~ Blitz Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Linc knows Wyn is the girl for him.Wyn knows Linc is the boy for her.But she’s promised to another.

Lincoln “Linc” Tatman had been at his new school for months and he thought he’d met all the girls it had to offer. Until one day, he spied Wyn sitting against a tree and realized this new place had been hiding the girl of his dreams. He goes out of his way to get to know her, even though he’s warned that it’s a hopeless case. But he’s determined to win her, even if she can only be his for a short time.

Arwyn “Wyn” Scott is the black sheep of her big gypsy family. When most of the girls her age are dropping out to start their own families, she begs her parents to stay. She doesn’t fit in with the gypsy teens and the regular teens are too afraid of her five older brothers to get close. Then Linc comes into her life, showing her a new life she never thought she could have. She can’t stop herself from falling head first for the boy.

Wyn leave behind her family and their traditions to follow her heart, or will  she become a young gypsy wife?






Michelle is a 28 year old native Ohioan. Go Buckeyes! Who now lives with her husband and son in West Virginia. When she isn't spending time with her family you can find her with her nose stuck in a good book. She released her first book (Reviving Bloom) as an independent author in October 2012 and plans to release two new books (Promised & Enlightening Bloom) in 2013.

 ~ Facebook ~ Blog ~ 

Excerpt:

“Linc, there are things in my life that you can’t understand and this,” She waves  her hand back and forth between the two of us, “will never be able to work out.”

“You can’t know that. You’re not even giving us a chance.” I cross my arms.

She throws up her arms, “You want to know how this will go if I give in?”

“Yeah, since apparently you’re a psychic, tell me how this will go, Wyn.”

“Say my family doesn’t find out, which is highly unlikely. And say if they do find  out and they don’t hurt you. And Linc, those are two huge obstacles to overcome  right off the bat. Well, say we overcome those, then what?” She runs her hands  through her hair before she continues, “We’ll spend a few weeks, a few months it  we’re lucky, together. But it won’t last after that, Linc. It’ll be over and we’ll be left with what? Nothing.”

“You’re wrong, Wyn. We’ll have the memories and I’d rather have those than  nothing.” I want to reach out and grab her. I want to hold her in my arms but I  know she has boundaries that I’m not use to and I can’t cross them. I’m afraid to even hold her hand, that it might cross some unseen line.



“I’m not sure I can handle the memories. Because if you give me everything  I think you can and things turn out the way I know they will, I won’t be able to  handle them. Knowing I had you and I had to let you go. I can’t do that, Linc.” There’s a quiver in her voice and I have to shove my hands in my pockets to keep from reaching out for her.

“You won’t have to let me go.”

“Yes, I will.”

“The only way I’m going anywhere is if you decide you don’t want me around.” I promise her.

“It won’t be me who pushes you away.”

“Well, I can promise I won’t push you away. I want to be with you, Wyn.”

“I’m promised, Linc.” As the words leave her lips, I watch the tears begin to escape her eyes.

“Explain please.” I have a feeling I know what it means but I need to hear it aloud.

“My Dad informed me last night that someone expressed interest in my hand.  He’s going to accept the proposal.” She’s watching my face as she finishes, “I’m going to be married.”

Title ~ Blurb ~ Release Date Reveal

I know this is an unexpected post but I just have to share as much as possible!!!

~ Only Half Alive ~ 

While darkness haunts her, she craves the light. Christina is a demon, but she doesn’t want to be. She is willing to sacrifice everything to change it. Only one person stands in her way and he will stop at nothing keep her the way she is.

The greatest battle of light vs dark threatens every living creature, a battle that could destroy all. And the demon in love will only have one chance to save everyone.

My cover revlea/party/ blog tour host ~ LadyAmber- LadyAmber Tours

YA vs. Swearing

Alright, I have talked about a lot of things but swearing really isn't one of them. And I know it's a pretty big deal for authors to tackle this subject.  Why? Because a lot of people swear and are okay with it, and a lot of people aren't.  I for one, HATE swear words. I don't say them, I hate hearing them, I hate reading them.

And I especially hate when people feel the need to make their characters swear because it would be "Out of character" for the character to NOT swear. Guess what, you can do it! It is possible! But that really isn't the point of this post. And maybe I will touch on it later but right now, I want to talk about why it isn't okay for swearing to be in YA books. (YA = Young Adult).

Let's begin with ratings. Did you know that if the 'F' word is said more than twice in a movie it is automatically rated R? Yep! They can't say it more than twice in the entire movie or it gets an R rating.  SO, why should it be okay for YOUNG ADULT books to have the F word repeated more than two times? In fact, why is it okay to have swearing in YA period?

Let me give you an example, 'Anna Dressed in Blood'. Backstory: I am not into horror novels/movies/anything. I don't like horror, it isn't fun, it isn't enjoyable, and it pretty much just gives me nightmares. But I was told to read Anna Dressed in Blood by a wonderful friend so I bought it. I finished it and guess what! I LOVE the book. I LOVE the story, the characters, the plot, the love story, everything EXCEPT the swearing. Cas, -the MC- swears A LOT. And it really detracted from the rest of the story. Some pages it felt like every other word was the 'F' word.

And I don't plan on getting the second book. Why? Because as much as I want to know what happened, I don't care to read Cas swearing every other word, and judging by the reviews I read, I pretty much know how the story goes. So I don't need to read it, I know how it ends, and I just avoided all the swearing.

So I think this is something to keep in mind when writing about a character you think would swear. Is it worth losing readers over because you feel the need to put those words in there? And on top of that, you're a writer! There are so many creative ways around swearing. Think back story, maybe the character stops swearing for someone they love, maybe swear words are against the law, maybe it annoys your characters enemy because they won't swear. There are so many things you can do.

And if your book is ever made into a movie, do you really want them to have to rate it R or cut out so much of your character because of all the swearing?

On top of that, are those words really so important that we can't find other things to say in their place?

Alright, go ahead. Tell me your views on Swearing as a reader AND writer! I want to know.

Fairytale Party Day five

Today is the last day of our week long 3rd annual Fairy Tale party. This has been a blast and I am sad to see the party come to an end so soon. However it had to be done. So without further ado, I give you the finale! The last giveaway of the party!! (Don't forget to go enter the other giveaways, they all end May 24th!).

The Prize ~ A Cinderella Prize pack full of goodies (not everything is pictured below - some prizes will remain a surprise!) 

This beautiful wooden sign: 

And these charms as a bracelet or bookmarks - winners choice. 

(Charms: A book, a slipper, a castle, "wish", a carriage, and a crown.) 

Not pictured: 

* A huge swag pack full of awesome bookmarks, pens, pins, and posters! 

* A Sparkly surprise! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fairy-tale Party Day four: Cinderella

A girl with a secret and a prince on a mission

When Prince Anthony spies Eleanoria Woodston outside her family home dressed as a servant, he knows something is amiss. Pretending to be John, his cousin’s outrider, he decides to take matters into his own hands and figure out why Ella hasn’t been seen at court. And more importantly why the daughter of one of the wealthiest families in the kingdom dresses like a pauper.

Ella has had her own bout of trials, including losing her beloved father and facing the wrath and jealousy of her stepmother and stepsisters. Becoming a servant doesn’t seem all that bad until the handsome John comes into her life, now he appears to be upsetting everything. Never before has she been so unsettled. Just his presence is making her dream of a life beyond this one.

When John invites Ella to the ball and she grudgingly accepts, he wonders if he’s truly losing his mind. How would he ever pull off pretending to be John while obviously hosting the ball as Anthony? Especially when the stubborn girl has made it quite obvious she would never attend a ball with a snobbish prince.

My Review: 

I don't give 5 stars easily. In fact, if a book gets 5 stars from me, it has to be incredible. It has to move me, make me feel like I am part of the story. It has to be beautifully written and have a story that makes me happy just reading it.  Cinderella by Jenni James is just that book. 

If anyone told me that writing wasn't for Jenni, I would have to laugh. Because I believe she was born to write these stories. Cinderella is so beautifully written, so moving, touching, it is a story worth reading over and over again. 

Quite honestly, I have no complaints about it. Clean, Romantic, Funny, Fun for all ages, is full of wonderful messages, beautifully written, emotionally satisfying.  Wonderful characters, great dialogue, and the setting just pulls you in and makes you think you are right there with the characters. 

 ~ Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Goodreads ~ Website ~ 

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Book Blitz: Apocalypse of Angels

Title: Apocalypse of Angels: Seeing Angels

Author: Harmony Lawson

Genre: Young Adult

Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Camille Harper, about to finish high school, can see angels all around her. They appear to watch her. She has been able to see angels from birth, and while she is amused by this ability, she just wants a normal life with friends, family, and good times. Why can she see
angels? She doesn't know, but she believes the knowledge will change everything. Then she witnesses a confrontation between a beautiful angel and a dark winged creature. The strange event will signal the end of normal life.

Did the strange beings know she could see them?

Her friends want her to sneak out to an abandoned house for parties, but her instincts scream “NO!” Something is not right about the place. The hip new guy in school, Earl, wants to date, but she is afraid he will disturb her circle of friends, and there is something not right about him. Her parents aren’t doing well together. And whatever strange plot is
developing, her sister may be in the middle.

Now, for the first time, Camille Harper is interacting with angels face to face. This is incredible, but when Jason Waters enters her life, she gets more than she bargained for. Her strange ability complicates life on a whole new level. Camille and Jason enter an exciting but forbidden relationship.

Strange beings present danger. What’s a Nephilim? What are fallen angels up to?

Jason believes something is strange with Earl, but Jason is hiding things from Camille as well. Which one is right for her? Are they both trying to possess her for supernatural reasons?

Camille just wants to make it through the year and graduate from high school, but changes are leading up to some apocalyptic event.

Can Camille continue Seeing Angels without her life going to Hell?

Harmony Lawson was born on a naval base in San Diego, California. Currently, she and her family live in Northern California in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Her education is in drawing, painting, and writing. When she read her first romance novel at age 16, she became a hopeless romantic.
Harmony is fascinated by angels, and she incorporates research in angels, the Nephilim, and fallen angels into her fictional stories. Many of the descriptions in her books reflect actual documentation found in religious documents.
While she has endured many hardships in life, she believes life will be better tomorrow. Life has its ups and downs, trials and tribulations, and Heaven and Hell. She believes the bad times are a test to prove a person’s worth. Her books reflect on that concept.




Excerpt:

“I really want to see you again, Cami, but I’m not sure about this. I’m not sure I can.” His gaze is intense. There is no way for me to respond to that. I look down again.

He raises my hand to his lips and kisses. Electricity travels up my arm. How can a kiss feel like that? Have we fallen in love already?

“Why wouldn't you be able to see me again?” I finally have to ask.

“Never mind, just pretend I didn't say that.”

He is hiding things from me, and I know what they are. Attraction is making me so weak that I am tempted to tell him what I know. I have to fight it.

His warm hand is smooth on top and rough on the palm. My hand must seem cold to him. He can hold my hand as long as he wants.

He sighs and kisses my hand again. “We better drive back to your car. I don’t want to keep you out too late.” He sounds like a guy trying to avoid trouble.

Website ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ Facebook 

Fairy-tale Party Day three: Princess of Glass

Hoping to escape the troubles in her kingdom, Princess Poppy reluctantly agrees to take part in a royal exchange program, whereby young princes and princesses travel to each other's countries in the name of better political alliances--and potential marriages. It's got the makings of a fairy tale--until a hapless servant named Eleanor is tricked by a vengeful fairy godmother into competing with Poppy for the eligible prince. Ballgowns, cinders, and enchanted glass slippers fly in this romantic and action-packed happily-ever-after quest from an author with a flair for embroidering tales in her own delightful way.

My Review: 

As with all of Jessica Day George's work, this tale is beautifully spun in a web of magical imagery and dialogue. A fun spin on Cinderella that is something completely new and different. 

I love every page of this book. It keeps you reading, wondering, and the ending is just as wonderful! 

And I love that this series takes a princess from the first book that you have already come to know and love and throws her in a fairy-tale of her own! 

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Goodreads ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Blog

Konstanz: What's your favorite thing about Cinderella?

Jessica:  Thinking about the glass slippers, and what they would really look like.

Konstanz: What is your all time favorite Fairy-tale?

Jessica: East o' the Sun, West o' the Moon.

Konstanz: What inspired you to re-write fairy-tales?

Jessica:  I wanted to do my own version of East o' the Sun, and just went from there!

Konstanz:  What is your definition of Happily Ever After?

Jessica: A lot of books and chocolate, not a lot of drama.

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Book Blitz: Saving Me

Title: Saving Me ~ Author: Kelsie Blanton ~ Genre: Mature YA ~ Blitz Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Sixteen-year old Peyton Jones had it all: straight A's in school, the perfect boyfriend,  and nothing to worry about but keeping her GPA up. Then one night her perfect world  is suddenly ripped away from her. Everything she has ever known changes and she goes  from having a perfect plan to watching her world crumble around her.

Steve Gibbons was the quarterback of his high school football team...until the new guy  showed up and stole his spot, causing him to lose his chance at a scholarship. Football  was his life and now he feels like he has nothing.

Drawn together after losing hope for their futures, Peyton and Steve become best friends,  but as they grow closer, a colossal secret is revealed changing everything. Will Peyton be  left to face her inevitable future alone, or can she trust enough to let someone else in?



Author Bio:



Kelsie Blanton is a fun-loving young woman from a small town in Kentucky.  Writing has always been her passion and when she’s not working at her full-time job, she  is at home writing on something. Her hobbies include reading, writing, singing (poorly),  dancing (again, poorly), and talking…a lot.Surrounded by amazing friends and family that support her, Kelsie is following her dreams. Happy reading!

 Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Email: kelsie_blanton@yahoo.com 

Amazon ~  Smashwords

Fairy-tale Party Day two: Cinder and Ella

After her father's disappearance, Cinder leaves home for a servant job at the castle. But it isn't long before her sister Ella is brought to the castle herself. What Ella finds there starts a quest that will change her life and the entire kingdom. Cinder and Ella is a Cinderella story like no other, and one you'll never forget.

My Review: 

Not gonna lie. It isn't what I expected.  And I LOVE it. Cinder and Ella is a very unique and twist on Cinderella. All the twists and turns keep you reading. Every page keeps you wondering and reading late into the night. The story is intriguing, the love story is adorable, and the prince, well let's just say there is nothing charming about him. 

The entire book is just beautiful. Melissa is a fantastic writer with a beautiful voice and has a magical way with words. Cinder and Ella is full of beautiful details that make you feel as if you are right there with the characters. And in my opinion, every book should be like that. 

I honestly think my favorite part of  this book was Tanner. A knight who is clumsy = Best twist on a classic tale. He is lovable, and believable, adorable, and one of my all-time favorite characters! 

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Goodreads ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Blog

Konstanz: What's your favorite thing about Cinderella?

Melissa:  I love how Cinderella is so easy to relate to. A lot of other fairy tales feature "princesses," but Cinderella is just an ordinary, hard working girl who never gives up on the idea of a better life. She dares to believe in herself, and that deep down inside is much more than someone who knows how to scrub a toilet and sweep a chimney. There is much to learn from her about kindness, patience, and tolerance, but most of all that fervent, undying belief in self draws me to her.

Konstanz:  Did you start writing, decide you wanted to re-write Cinderella and Cinder and Ella is the end result OR did you become a writer because you had an idea for a Cinderella re-tell?

Melissa:  I wrote a few things before Cinder and Ella, including Blue Sky which I just self published and a few picture books. I've loved twisting fairy tales for a long time, but Cinder and Ella was the first one I retold in novel form. So, I guess if the question is, "What came first, the writer or Cinder and Ella," the answer would have to be the writer.

Konstanz: Aside from your own of course, which is your favorite version of Cinderella?

Melissa:  I'd have to say the movie Ever After with Drew Barrymore.

Konstanz: Do you plan on writing more re-tells of other fairy tales?

Melissa: : I have a few other fairy tales, including a book that combines Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast into one story. But I also have many ideas for other genres. Fairy tales are just my favorite. 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

You are cordially invited to the 3rd Annual Fairy Tale Party

You are cordially invited to the Grand Ball! 

Come dressed to dance the night away, meet your prince, get swept off your feet, and  become a princess. . . . or better yet, stay in your pajamas, wear some fuzzy socks, and enjoy the party from the comforts of your home! 

For those who have been with me for three years, I thank you and you probably know what this is.  For those who are newer and have no clue what I am talking about, well keep reading.  3 Years ago I decided it would be really fun to throw a huge party on my blog for my birthday.  Ya know, cause like Hobbits, I like giving things away on my birthday.  And it took a long while but I finally decided that I would make the party all about Fairy-tales.  Starting with some of my favorites.

Last year was all about Snow White.  And it was quite fun.  Each year I do something a little bit different and this year will be the funnest of them all!  So what Fairy-Tale will this year's party be about? Cinderella!!!

And by good golly I have some treats for you!  Check out what I am giving away!

Cinder and Ella by Melissa Lemon  ~ Cinderella by Jenni James  ~ Princess of Glass by Jessica Day George

 


AND

A beautiful saying on a beautiful piece of painted wood, ready to be hung up!

Plus lots and lots and lots of  Cinderella themed swag! Things like bookmarks, charm bracelets, and pendants! Maybe even some earrings! 


When: All week long. Each day I will feature one of the books shown above. There will be an interview with the author, and a Rafflecoptor for you to enter to win a copy of the book!

Where: Here on this blog!

Why: This whole idea was started around having a party on my blog for my birthday. (Not the blog's birthday, MY birthday)


May 14th: Featuring 'Cinder and Ella', an interview with the author, a review of the book, and a giveaway!

May 15th: Featuring 'Princess of Glass', an interview with the author, a review of the book, and a giveaway!

May 16th: Featuring 'Cinderella', an interview with the author, a review of the book, a giveaway!

May 17th: A Special Surprise, a giveaway, and the party ends with a bang!

The giveaways will end on May 24th.



 

Touching Fire Cover Reveal

Book Name: Touching Fire

Author: Airicka Phoenix

Series: Touch Saga, book 2

Publisher: Airicka Phoenix

Release date: June, 2013

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance.

Warnings: Strong language and mild sexual content

Formats: ebook & paperback

Touching Fire: 

Fallon’s on the run again, but this time, she’s not alone and she has a direction — she’s

going to meet the man whose blood runs through her veins, the only man who can finally tell

her who… what she is and why Garrison wants her so badly. But the truth may be more than she

can handle when she falls from one world into another, one that shouldn’t exist and learns truths

about herself that she may wish she never knew.

Faced with a reality so beyond comprehension, Fallon must accept the destiny she’s

given because Garrison will stop at nothing to insure the success of The Amalie Project, even if

he must do the unthinkable and become just like Fallon.

Touch Vengeance. Touch Malice. Touch Fire.

Full Wrap Around

Other Novels:

 Touching Smoke (Touch Series, book 1) ebook  ~  Touching Smoke (Touch Series, Book 1) Paperback ~  

~ Touching Eternity (Touch Series Beginning) ebook  ~ Touching Eternity (Touch Series B) Paperback ~ 

 ~ Games of Fire (ebook) ~    Games of Fire (paperback)  ~ 

 ~ Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology (ebook)  ~

~   Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology (Paperback)  ~  

~ Midnight Surrender Anthology (ebook) ~  Midnight Surrender Anthology (Paperback) ~ 

Twitter (@AirickaPhoenix) ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads  ~ Pinterest ~  Author Page  ~ Design page

Airicka Phoenix is the best-selling author of the Touch Series with short stories in Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology and Midnight Surrender Anthology. When she's not hammering away at the keyboard, she can be found banishing pirates or crawling through the attic looking for lost treasure with her kids. She loves baking, gardening and reading.

She also likes to travel and take pictures of everything she comes across. When asked, Airicka describes herself as a sarcastic basket case that has an unhealthy addiction to chocolate, old movies and really bad jokes. She loves to laugh, make friends and write. If she could have one wish granted, it would be to spend one day as a fly-on-the-wall inside Stephen King's mind.

If she could have two wishes granted, she would ask for a castle dedicated entirely to her overwhelming collection of books.

For more about Airicka, also on how to win giveaways, read author interviews and reviews, visit her website at: http://airickaphoenix.com/Author

Book Tour: Morrigan by Laura DeLuca ~ A Book Review

Title: Morrigan

Author: Laura DeLuca

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Shuffled from place to place in the foster system, Morrigan doesn't know the meaning of home. Plus, she is different. She has power over fire, the ability to move objects with her mind, and glimpse into the future. Just when she believes her life can’t get any stranger, she discovers her true identity.

Filtiarn, a knight with a dark past and a surprising secret, has been tasked with guiding the heir of Tír na NÓg through countless perils to be returned to her family. Once Morrigan has been reunited with her mother and grandmother, their triad can save the forgotten land of magic from being devoured by an ancient evil.

My Review: 

Morrigan took me by surprise. So many twists and turns and ups and downs. It was an emotional roller coaster. There were a few scenes that actually bothered me, things I didn't like. And a few sentences I really wish weren't in there. But the story had me so pulled in that I couldn't put it down. 

By the time I finished the book I was left in a book coma, unable to read anything else. Unable to think about anything else. The book is truly unique, a different story, a completely adorable love story that is different and doesn't follow the trends these days. 

The end was so eye opening, so shocking yet almost expected but still jaw dropping, eye opening, clenched fist action. And it was fantastic. I LOVED the ending. I love the journey Morrigan goes on.  The writing was wonderful. 

If not for those few scenes, this would be five. But as if, overall rating: 

Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children. She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the editor of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. Her current works include Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, Phantom, Morrigan, Player, and Demon.

Author: Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ GoodReads ~ Pinterest

Amazon ~ Goodreads ~ Books A Million ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Smashwords

Excerpt: 

“Guardians!” A low snarl emanated from the back of his throat. “What are you doing with Guardians?” “Stop it! Sit down!” Morrigan wasn't sure who she was addressing, the man or the animals. Luckily, they both obeyed her command. She stepped in between them to avoid any further confrontations. The cats took a seat on either side her legs, but their posture hardly relaxed. They still glared warily at the newcomer, even though their hisses died down to an occasional soft growl.

“Dirty, filthy beasts!” Tiarn snarled as he climbed to his feet. “I hate Guardians.”

“They’re just little cats,” Morrigan told him. “What’s the big deal?”

“Just cats! Hah!” He was standing at a careful distance, even though they had started licking their paws nonchalantly. “They are much more than simple cats! Though even those I find distasteful.”

Morrigan narrowed her eyes. “What do you mean?”

“Never mind. It does not matter.” Tiarn dismissed her question with a wave of his hand.

“They are not coming with us.

“They most certainly are coming!”

Tiarn growled again. “I beg to differ with you, Your Highness. They would only get in the way. Possibly even get killed.”

Danu raised her head from her grooming to hiss at him again, as though she had taken that last statement as a personal threat. The strange reaction of her faithful sidekicks made Morrigan wonder again just how much Tiarn could be trusted. She also wondered why, when she wasn't sure she could trust him, she still felt the undeniable urge to wrap her arms around his neck and kiss him. “If they stay here alone, they’ll definitely get killed or at least sent to the pound,” Morrigan told him. “I can’t let that happen. So, they’re coming. End of story.”

Tiarn’s eyes flashed dangerously, and he looked like he wanted to argue, but thought better of it. “Very well, Princess. Bring your mongrel felines. Just keep in mind that Guardians and lycans do not mix well.”

“Lycans?” Morrigan repeated. A sick feeling started to settle in her stomach, as the truth of his words sunk in. It all started to make sense—his hairy arms and chest, his reaction to the cats, even his earlier

comment about smelling her out. Her dark knight had a much darker side than she had

ever seen in her dreams.

“Why yes, Your Majesty. Did you not realize? You are a witch and a sorceress. And I, your faithful traveling companion, am a lycan—a werewolf.”

Book Tour: Descendant by Nichole Guiles ~ A Book Review

Book: Descendant
Author: Nichole Giles
Publisher: Rhemalda Publishing
Pages: 341









Seventeen-year-old Abigail Johnson is Gifted.

Blessed—or cursed—with Sight and Healing, Abby lives an unsettled life, moving from place to place and staying one step ahead of the darkness that hunts her. When she arrives in Jackson, Wyoming, she is desperate to maintain the illusion of normalcy, but she is plagued with visions of past lives mixed with frightening glimpses of her future. Then she meets Kye, a mysterious boy who seems so achingly familiar that Abby is drawn to him like he’s a missing piece of her own soul.

Before Abby can discover the reason for her feelings toward Kye, the darkness catches up to her and she is forced to flee again. But this time she’s not just running. She is fighting back with Kye at her side, and it’s not just Abby’s life at stake.


My Review: 

Page one and tears are already streaming down my cheeks. I don't even know these characters and yet, there I sat crying for them.  By the middle of the book I feel completely conflicted. There have been a few scenes that didn't make sense, a few scenes I hated, and yet, I am still reading it. Because I can't stop myself.
Because clearly I am a fan despite the things I didn't like, the good outweighing the bad.

Nichole spins a tale that is so captivating, original, unique, something that doesn't follow the trends in the world of books today.  This story is filled with magic in the modern world, myths and the legends all spun together to create this incredible story.

I love the characters, all of them! The love story is something completely magical that has you rooting for Abby and Kye from the first time they meet.  Every chapter is a roller coaster of emotions.

Very often  people will compare books and say "Well if you liked (this book) then you will really love (this other book) as well."  And in this case, I can't think of a single book that is quite like Descendant.

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