The Gryphon Series by Stacey Rourke

I have to share with you one of my all time favorite series!!  I was lucky enough to win the entire series and I plowed through these babies in record time.  Amazing!!!  

The Gryphon Series by the brilliant Stacey Rourke.

Here are my reviews for each book.  Remember you can start this series for FREE, get your ecopy on Amazon!!

The Conduit by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was such fun to read and there was no way I could put it down. I loved how the three siblings actually acted the way most siblings do by making amusing remarks to each other, but when the chips were down they always banned together and watched each others backs. The banter between them, plus their eccentric grandma had me holding my sides as I laughed out loud countless times. Brilliant!

There was also plenty of action and supernatural beings thrown in to keep you on your toes. I honestly couldn't wait to turn each page to see what the author would throw at them next.

Exciting, funny and a true hit! This series is destined to be on the top of my favorites list. I leave you with a couple of my favorite lines from The Conduit.

"You want to try to reason with a demon, Keni? Maybe get him into an evil rehab group?"

"Kendall you're supposed to be halfway to Memphis by now!" She threw her hands up. "I'm going; I'm going! I just had to stop to pee. It's a long flight."

Embrace by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just finished Embrace and I am screaming at my kindle. How could it end like that? Thank goodness I have book 3 or I may have flung my kindle across the room. LOL Stacey Rourke knows how to pull you into her world and leave you breathless. The characters grab you in a way that you literally feel each and every battle or hardship they face. You also find yourself cracking up at the way the siblings go at each other,saying things that only family could get away with. She also knows how to keep you coming back for more with a cliffhanger from Hades. As soon as I finish this review I am starting Sacrifice, book 3.

Okay I need to take the time to say that I am so so so excited about mega sexy Caleb and smoldering, bad boy/demon Rowan. Prrrr...I am in love, with BOTH. They are beyond words and just delectable male specimens that need further attention. *sigh

Embrace had everything I loved from The Conduit and so much more! Hot new characters, more side splitting humor and an unforgettable story. I am hopelessly addicted to The Gryphon Series!!

Sacrifice by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved this series from the very beginning and I am not surprised that it just keeps getting better and better. Sacrifice is my favorite so far I think because it proved to be a more emotional book. After reading the other two books, I found myself attached to so many of the characters and when something affects them and causes them pain, well then of course my heart aches for them. I had a couple experiences where my ugly cry got the better of me and tissues were needed.

"I couldn't lose Caleb. He was my anchor in a sea of chaos." *sniffle

"How do you act normal when it feels like your world just imploded? Was it possible to go through the motions of normalcy when all I wanted to do was lay down and cry." *tear

On the other hand, the author still had the laugh out loud one liners I have grown so fond of. Her humor cracks me up and lightens the mood in some of the more painful moments in the book.

"If looks could kill, my boyfriend would've been on the ground twitching."

Sacrifice has the perfect balance of humor, action, and creepy demons out to kill the Conduit. Now with that being said, I cannot forget to mention that the author gives us MORE of the two hotties that we met in Embrace. Yes I am talking about the smoking hot Irishman Caleb and the super sexy pirate Rowan. They are even more drool-worthy and kept my pulse racing.

I can't wait to read more about Celeste, Gabe, Keni, Caleb and Rowan in Ascension. Amazing series that I can't get enough of.

Ascension by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"She is like no other. She will draw strength from them all. Her need to protect them will be her catalyst. Only then can she do what must be done and become the hero we need her to be. Only then will she...ascend."

"You were chosen for this high honor, CeeCee. Because of your strong strength of character."

"One lone thought plagued me as those double doors slammed shut behind us; the very Council that created my team just tore it apart."

"The very people that hold magicks powerful enough to turn one of you into a lion and the other into a Conduit now believe you to be traitors."

Ascension is the fouth book in The Gryphon Series and brings Celeste to finally face her destiny head on. She never asked for this "honor" to be thrust upon her, but she realizes she has to save her family, her town and humanity. Through a series of attacks on her loved ones and the citizens of Gainesboro, Celeste recognizes that she may have to stand alone and be faced with losing everything that she holds dear. A feeling of isolation threatens to pull her under, but her determination and the passion of all who care for her,provides her with the strength she needs to go to war.

Ascesion is the emotionally charged ending to the Gryphon Series. It has everything that made me fall in love with it and so much more. Celeste has grown tremendously from the first book, not only in strength but her drive to keep her loved ones safe. This makes her a character that I could really grow attached to. Also one of my favorite characters, Gram, gives us a glimpse of her ability to keep the Garrett family together as the matriarch and often times the much needed comic relief in the turbulent events. She had so many hystrically funny one liners either from her or about her. I could visualize her with leopard print leotards, bright red nails and maybe even a bandana around her head while she sweats to Olivia Newton John's Let's Get Physical. LOL Maybe that's just me. "I give it two hours, tops, before she's in the middle of Main Street singing Lady Marmalade...again." Haha

Of course I can't leave out the two hot males that are both smitten with Celeste. To be faced with that choice would be so difficult. How do you choose between an Irish hottie that could make your knees buckle and the darker "pirate" that excites your senses with just one touch? "Separately, Caleb and Rowan could make any girl swoon. Together they were a symphony of lethal seduction. Dark and Light. Mystery and intrigue. Danger and promise." I could never get enough of them.

One of my ALL TIME favorite series. Highly addicting and beyond hillarious. I love everything about this series. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves paranormal that grabs you and makes you keep coming back and begging for more.
View all my reviews

Which will you cheer for?  Me, I am all about Rowan, but trust me I still love Caleb.  Desisions, decisions.  LOL

Another series by author Stacey Rourke, which is on my TBR list.

Check out more information on these wonderful books and our lovely author on her FACEBOOK page.

Break My Bones by Shawn McGuire

Title: Break My Bones

Author: Shawn McGuire

Publication Date: Sept 1

Category: YA

Genre: Contemporary with Fantasy Elements

Blurb:

Everyone makes mistakes. Crissy’s just might kill her.

Seventeen-year-old Crissy Sheets was so sure Brad was the one, she believed him when he swore the first bruise was an accident. She believed him when he told her he loved her after the second. Now trapped in an abusive relationship with no idea of how to get out, she’s all but given up on ever having the life she dreams of. With little to lose, Crissy wishes for a better future.

She’s told her wish has been granted, but nothing has changed. Her house is still a dump, her mother is still drinking, and Brad still wants to control her every move. Then Lance moves into the house across the yard. He’s hot, chivalrous, and wants to help Crissy break free. Will standing up for herself push Brad too far?

Excerpt:

The four-foot tall fence surrounding the garden was covered with flowering vines, disguising the way in from the backyard. Emma meticulously kept the vines trimmed around a small gate hidden on the side between her house and Lance’s. I stuck my hand through and searched around for the latch. Like always, I had a hard time finding it, but once I finally did, I simultaneously lifted the latch and placed my thumb over the Zen circle on the rock. By the time I turned around from securing the gate, Desiree was sitting cross-legged on the ground by a bush of pink peonies.

“Hey,” she said. “What’s going on?”

Now that I had someone to talk to, I didn’t know what to say. “You said if I needed help I could summon you.”

“That I did.”

To my horror, tears started flowing again. “I, um—”

Before I could say anything, Desiree was at my side, her arms around me. Any remaining doubts I had about her and this wish being real were gone. I couldn’t remember the last time anyone held me just for the sake of comfort. Whoever it was, it sure wasn’t Brad. When he put his hands on me it was for one of two things: To get what he wanted or to give me what I had coming.

“I know,” Desiree said a few times in this sweet, soothing way. And I knew she did. Somehow she knew everything about me. Even more than Mandy.

“He’s going to kill me,” I said through my tears.

Wow. Where’d that come from? Sure, he could obviously do serious harm to me if he wanted, but kill me? I said it again. “I’m really scared that one day I’m not going to be able to defuse him and he’s going to kill me.”

Desiree rested her chin on top of my head and I felt her jaw clench and release, clench and release. “That’s why I’m here. You wanted a better future. That’s more likely to happen if he’s not in the picture.”

“What am I supposed to do?” The damn tears wouldn’t stop. As soon as I wiped them away my face was wet again.

“Remember what I told you?” she asked and released her grip on me.

“You told me a lot of things,” I said. “It was a little hard to focus considering I thought you were pranking me.”

“Do you still think it’s a joke?”

“No,” I said, sniffing. “But nothing’s gotten better yet.”

“You wished for a new path, a better future than the one that seemed to be ahead of you.” She plucked a daisy from the garden and tucked it into her hair and then another which she put behind my right ear. Her voice, with its soft, Southern lilt, was amazingly soothing as she spoke. “For that to fully transpire you need to be capable of helping yourself. I told you, you need to learn to fight the battle. For that you need strength and confidence.” She looked at me over the top of her big, round, blue glasses. “I’ve provided all that you need to bring your wish to a satisfying conclusion.”

“A satisfying conclusion? That’s it?” I asked. “Aren’t I supposed to get a happily ever after?”

“That may come,” Desiree said. “It may not. It might come a little later on. Satisfying and happy don’t necessarily come hand-in-hand. My task, fulfilling your wish, is to get you on the pathway to a better future. Your soul didn’t specify what that future was to be.”

“So it could be only slightly less crappy than the one I’ve got right now?”

She did her palms-up swami-shrug.

“Could be. Doubt it though. Not many soul wishes call for slightly less crappy.” She smiled in that mellow way of hers. “I’ve provided you with all the tools you need. Your future is now in your control.”

Links:

 Kobo

Google Play

 Google eBook

Barnes & Noble

 iTunes

Amazon

Smashwords

Bio:

Shawn McGuire is the author of young adult, coming-of-age novels that blend contemporary settings with a touch of fantasy and magic. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that’s episode IV) as a kid: she couldn’t wait for the next one so wrote her own episodes. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to write is as strong now as it was then. She grew up in the beautiful Mississippi River town of Winona, Minnesota, the small town that inspired the setting for Sticks and Stones and the upcoming Break My Bones. After graduating college she moved to the Milwaukee area of Wisconsin (Go Pack Go!) where she lived for many years. She and her family now call Colorado home and when not writing or reading, Shawn enjoys cooking and baking, crafts, interior decorating, and spending time hiking and camping in the spectacular Rocky Mountains.

Links:

My website: www.Shawn-McGuire.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShawnMcGuireAuthor

Twitter: @Shawn_McGuire

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/shawnmcguire1/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3231214.Shawn_McGuire

Forest of Whispers by Jennifer Murgia

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases we are eagerly awaiting!

 

Title: Forest of Whispers

Author: Jennifer Murgia

Publisher: Spencer Hill Press

Expected Publication Date: September 9, 2014

Blurb:

Raised by an old fortune-teller within the dark veil of the Bavarian Black Forest, Rune has learned two valuable lessons: only take from the forest that which you can use, and never, never look anyone in the eye in the village. For something terrible happened in the forest long ago... and now, the whispers of a long-dead mother with a vengeful secret have come haunting.

Forced to flee all she has ever known, Rune soon learns of a legacy she is bound to--one that is drenched in fear, witchcraft and murder--a birthright that stretches beyond the grave to the trees where Rune is no longer safe.

Barnes and Noble

 Jennifer Murgia has long loved the dark and speculative -- and it's from these dark places that she weaves fantastical stories, often hoping to find truth in them. Her Young Adult novels include the upcoming Historical Fantasy FOREST OF WHISPERS (9/9/14 -- Spencer Hill Press), BETWEEN THESE LINES, ANGEL STAR, LEMNISCATE & THE BLISS. She is the co-founder and coordinator of YA FEST and currently resides in Pennsylvania.

Website: www.jennifermurgia.com

Email: jennifermurgia8@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.murgia

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenniferMurgia

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jennifermurgia/

Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18506004-forest-of-whispers

Forest of Whispers Spell Kit Giveaway

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A.M. Hargrove Spotlight and Giveaway

I met author A.M. Hargrove at UtopYA and decided she would be the first author I would spotlight.  She has many books and I was lucky enough to purchase most of them.  *squeel  I can't wait to start reading them.  I am going to list each of her books with a brief synopsis.  I hope you enjoy and find a new book to add to your TBR list.  At the end of the post I have a giveaway for a tote, shirt and some swag.

The Guardians of Vesturon (5 books)

Beginnings: Prequel

You met the Guardians of Vesturon in Survival and Resurrection. Now read about how their parents, Rowan and Annalise met in Beginnings, the novella Prequel to The Guardians of Vesturon. Learn more about Rowan and how Annalise unwittingly captured his heart and how his chance meeting of her took him on a journey of forbidden love.

Survival Book 1

"Maybe I was caught between the two worlds. I was having serious trouble distinguishing fantasy from reality."

While on a backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, nineteen-year-old Maddie Pearce finds her world has been thrown into a vortex and is madly spinning toward the impossible. Abducted by a mad psychopath, Maddie narrowly escapes with her life. But that is only the beginning. Her mysterious rescuer introduces her to a world that Maddie has difficulty accepting as reality. Will this strikingly gorgeous stranger be the key to her future or will she return to her mundane world, scarred from her experience? Follow Maddie as she is forced to make difficult decisions that carry her to mysterious places.

Resurrection Book 2

"Maddie knew she was dying. Her life started to flash before her. She had visions of running down the soccer field, scoring a goal, eating her mother’s yummy, homemade, sticky cinnamon rolls, standing in her foyer listening to the police tell her father that her mother had been killed in a car accident. Each vision was disturbingly clear—as if it was happening again."

Rayn Yarrister, the first-born son and Leader of The Guardians, has been imprisoned on Vesturon for breaking their most sacred of covenants. He is suddenly jolted by Maddie's telepathic pleas for help, as her life hangs in the balance. Can he alert The Guardians in time to save his soulmate? Or will he face his trial alone and broken without his one true love? 

In Resurrection (Book 2), The Guardians of Vesturon are facing their biggest challenges as Earth is threatened by an invading species from a distant planet intent on destroying it for its resources. The Guardians, as protectors of the universe, have been assembled to defend not only Earth, but other vulnerable worlds as well. The Yarrister family is threatened by an unknown entity intent on discrediting them. Will they uncover this plot in time to save themselves from ruin? Will The Guardians succeed in stopping the Xanthians, or will Earth be invaded and ravaged by this marauding species?

Determinant Book 3

NOTE: Though this is the 3rd installment of the Guardians of Vesturon, it can be read as a stand alone novel.

January St. Davis, on her own since the age of sixteen and struggling to stay in college, thinks she’s scored in a major way when she lands a paid summer internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. One evening, after working an especially long shift, a chance encounter with a group of mysterious men alters the course of her life.

Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon with unearthly powers and impossibly gorgeous looks, finds himself at odds over the human female he recently saved from certain death. When it seems he is on the verge of winning her over, she is ripped from his hands by a strange and powerful being, threatening to destroy her if his demands are not met.

Do Rykerian and the Guardians have the ability to meet this fierce barbarian’s ultimatums, or will January suffer a horrid demise?

ReEmergent Book 4

Xarrid Yarrister is barely surviving...he’s living a life in hell.

The love of his life, Saylan, has vanished into thin air, and his telepathic powers can’t connect with her mind.

Saylan, a Guardian of Vesturon, doesn’t know herself anymore. Kidnapped by the Xanthians, she’s had a robotic chip implanted in her brain and is now a prisoner in her own body, lacking free will, at the beck and call of her cruel masters. 

For over a year Xarrid has been on the hunt. The Guardians have searched everywhere for her, but when they finally bring her home, Xarrid discovers her memory is gone. He’s determined to restore his love’s mind back to its healthy state. Removing the chip can cost Saylan her life, but doing nothing will cause irreparable brain damage. What choice will Xarrid make and how steep of a price will Saylan have to pay?

Edge (3 books)

Edge of Disaster Book 1

Adult Contemporary Romance--Not appropriate for younger readers.

Alexia Hammond, broken and destroyed by a tragedy she can’t seem to recover from, is on a downward spiral toward destruction. A life of partying, alcohol, drugs and men has brought her near the edge of disaster. That is until one night while at work as a waitress in an upscale restaurant, she falls under the spell of one of her customers, Pearce Middleton. Once she gazes into his smoky gray eyes, her life takes on new meaning. But can she put her past behind her and allow herself to fall for the exciting and gorgeous Pearce, or will her lewd behavior come back to haunt her and ruin her chances of happiness forever?

Shattered Edge Book 2

An Edge Novel

Their trial relationship was meant to last six months, but things didn’t quite work out the way they planned...

Justin Middleton, who has left a string of broken hearts across the state of South Carolina, has only one thing on his mind, and that’s winning Terri Mitchell’s heart in six months. That’s all the time she’s given him...six short months. If he can’t do it by then, they’ll go their separate ways. 

Terri Mitchell knows she’s lost her mind when she even suggested this harebrained scheme. She finally thinks her heart is on the mend from her past encounter with Justin. However, when he shows up at her house late one night looking deliciously sexy and irresistible, her iron will to fight him vanishes and the words tumble from her lips before she’s barely aware of what she’s done. 

Within weeks, both of them find themselves passionately involved, but when Terri’s brother, Preston, shows up, mysterious things begin to happen, turning their blissful world into something dark and dangerous.

Kissing Fire Book 3

Preston Mitchell, undercover DEA agent, has led a life of danger and obscurity. Knowing his job would never allow a normal relationship, he’s never opened himself up to any woman...that is until the lovely Avery Middleton stumbles into his life. 

To the outsider, Avery has it all...wealth, family, connections and a great job. But on the inside, she’s miserable. Her social life is in the dumpster, the kooky gal next door has some zany plans for her and her selfish mother drives Avery to the point of insanity. Her only salvation is to get out of Charleston and start a new life. So that’s precisely what she does. She moves to Seattle and steps right into the path of hot and sexy, Preston. 

Unfortunately for both of them, Avery ends up being in the wrong place at the wrong time and is now running for her life. But she’s not alone. She has a gorgeous DEA agent protecting her and suddenly finds herself irresistibly captivated by him. There’s only one problem. Preston carries more than his share of mental baggage, courtesy of his job. His covert missions have put him in places and situations he can barely stand to think about. Avery rocks Preston’s world because she is nothing like anyone he’s ever met and something extraordinary begins to happen between them. But can their love survive in this world, where danger, intrigue and deception lurk on every corner?

Tragic (2 books)

Tragically Flawed Book 1

* This is a New Adult Contemporary Romance with Mature content that is not suitable for younger readers.

**This is a Stand Alone Companion Novel to Tragic Desires.

Riviera Benson’s past has been nothing but horrific. It’s filled with secrets that she intends to keep tightly locked away...terrifying secrets that keep her awake at night...that prevent her from getting close to anyone...anyone that is, until her work as a muralist drives her into the arms of the hot and sexy Shan.

Benjamin Shandon, owner of Shandon Homes, works like a thousand demons are chasing him...because perhaps they are. His business has boomed, ever since the forest fire swept through the canyon and destroyed hundreds of million dollar homes. He demands excellence in everything...from his employees to his women. He slows down for nothing, keeping a schedule that no sane person would want. But Riviera interrupts everything, twisting his guts inside out, and wedging her way into his heart, destroying a promise he made to himself.

Will they let their pasts control their future, or will they decide to let go and allow their hearts to discover each other’s?

Tragic Desires Book 2

My name is Gemini Sheridan. At least that’s what I thought it was for 23 years. Then one day a slight adjustment on the wheel of my mountain bike set into motion a series of catastrophic events that changed my life forever. Now I’m running from the headaches that threaten to destroy me… from the assassins that threaten to kill me… from the truth that exposes who I really am… and from the man that wants to save me. Because he now owns my heart and I fear him above all others. 

My name is Drexel Wolfe and I’m a private investigator. Nothing ever stands in the way of what I want because when I see something I just take it. All of that changed the night my life collided with Gemini Sheridan’s and now everything is one hot damn mess. And the worst part of it all is that I’m trying to save her ass and I don’t know why the hell I’m even bothering. Well, that’s not exactly true. Fact is, I can’t stop thinking about her. She’s crawled into every thought I own, asleep or awake. I have serious plans for her that include making her mine. What she doesn’t know is that when I play, I play for keeps. Nothing and no one will get in my way or stop me… not even Gemini Sheridan herself.

**This book is NOT part of a series, but Drexel Wolfe, the main character, was first introduced in Tragically Flawed.

*This is an Adult Contemporary Romance and is not suitable for younger readers dues to its sexual content and language.

** This is a Stand Alone Companion Novel to Tragically Flawed.

Praestani (1 book)

Dark Waltz Book 1

Attention: This is an ADULT Book!

Dark Waltz--A sizzling legend of loss, lust and love. 

It’s the year 2030 and the human population has been annihilated by a virulent form of small pox. Liasare Davidson is desperately searching for her brother, who has been missing for three months. It’s been eighteen years since she was evacuated from Earth and she is horrified to see it’s become a cesspool of unimaginable things.

In her quest to find her brother, she meets Jurek, a powerful and enigmatic being that frightens her, yet she is unable to resist. When things begin to unfold between them, they both discover a paralyzing truth that puts Liasare at grave risk. She must make a choice to join Jurek and find her brother or fulfill a role she believes she is ill equipped to undertake.

Exquisite Betrayal

A male Romance Author… a convention in Vegas… a female book blogger… a goal to lose her virginity… what next? Find out when you mix all the above!

Fallon McKinley is headed to Vegas for the Wicked Wenches Romance Con and losing her virginity is only one of her goals. The other is to meet her favorite author of romance novels, R.T. Sinclair. What she doesn’t realize is that the sexy green-eyed god she rams into at the airport is the real R.T. When they keep running into each other, she’s shocked, but excited, because the attraction is irresistible.

Ryland Thomas Sinclair doesn’t want anyone to know his true identity. He’s the author that all women love, but everyone thinks he’s a female. He hides his persona behind the public face of his twin sister, keeping his own a secret. But after meeting the lovely Fallon, his intentions to avoid a relationship come to a screeching halt. She’s put an unwanted kink into his perfectly laid out plans. His unusual reaction surprises him because after a heart-shredding breakup a few years ago, he’s managed to avoid women at all costs.

Resisting Fallon becomes more difficult than he imagines. Soon things are spiraling out of control, until a major miscommunication has Fallon walking out of his home and his life. Will Ryland Thomas succeed in losing the woman he loves? Or can he win her back?

And now for the giveaway!!

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Ready For You Blog Tour

Synopsis:

Author Penny Lane decides to team up with fellow author Kain Brooks because she believes the collaboration will bring something refreshing and new to her humdrum life. It is at first, but what she doesn't count on is developing feelings for a man that's hundreds of miles away while continuing to struggle with the death of her fiancé, Zack. 

The newly divorced Kain is excited about the partnership and happily realizes that it may lead to much more than just a book.
However, there is a threat! A stalker's evil intentions are far more serious than either of them can ever imagine-- so serious that they may not make it long enough to discover if their feelings are genuine or just a long-distanced crush.

~ Amazon ~ Goodreads ~ B&N ~ 

Excerpt: Kain


For a split second I see her before me, with me. Wrapped in the steam from the shower, and nothing else. With her hair slicked back from the water, trailing down her freckled shoulders, she whispers, “It’ll be okay.”

“Penny…” I say, reaching out for her, but finding only the hot water from the shower. Her silhouette is now gone, and I desperately want to see her again. Quickly, I towel myself off and throw on my favorite T-shirt and worn jeans. I run into the living room and open my laptop with a snap. While holding my breath, I click on the Skype icon, followed by the call button. Penny’s name flashes on the screen as I wait for her to answer.

“Please be home…” I whisper. Four rings later, my screen pops with the welcoming beep of a connecting call. A stranger’s face fills my screen.

“Well, isn't this a surprise!” The woman laughs.

“Umm…” I stumble over my words. Where is Penny? Who is this?

“If it isn’t the generous and talented Kain Brooks,” she teases. She winks at me, twirling a fork in her left hand. I am lost.

“Tina! What are you doing?” Penny squeals, sliding into view on my screen.

“Penny,” I say, a little too excited. She steals a quick and embarrassed glance my way before focusing on Tina again.

“Tina, I can handle this, thank you,” Penny snaps, playfully. Tina scrunches her nose, blushing too.

“Look, Penny…it’s Kain. And he’s got his shirt on this time!” Tina smiles. Penny gasps.

“Tina!” Penny calls out, pushing Tina off screen. “I can’t believe you said that.”

“He’s cute,” Tina says from outside my view. All I can see is Penny’s growing embarrassment. I find her flushed cheeks flattering, and a bit sexy.

“Sorry, Kain…” Penny says, finding my stare again. “That’s Tina, my best friend…umm…but you know that…” She is completely flustered now.

“Yeah, I remember you mentioning her once or twice,” I tease, softly. She pauses for a moment, collecting her thoughts. I wait for her to say something, enjoying the view on my computer screen.

Review:
I really enjoyed this book. Unique and truly addicting. The collaboration bewtween authors D.Love and Madison Daniel was completely seamless. You couldn't tell where one author left off and the other began. I didn't want to put it down. The characters are charming and witty and made me laugh out loud on numerous occasions. I love when a book can tell a deep story, has plenty of suspense and just the right amount of humor. Ready For You has it all and then some.

Penny is an author who has gone through the very painful loss of her fiance. She decided she would like to write a book with author Kain Brooks. She never imagined the collaboration could bring so much more than a partnership into her life.

Kain Brooks is the author of the Blood and Bite series and agreed to write a book with Penny. He never would have guessed that he could find more than a reprieve from the torture of his very vindictive ex-wife.

The chemistry between Penny and Kain was evident almost right away. I loved seeing the changes that occured between these two after experiencing such painful events in both of their lives, but someone out there did't want this book or union to happen. Scary notes and personal attacks add suspense to this already great story.

Tina and Wayne are both the best friends of our main characters. I absolutely loved these two characters. They brought the humor in for me. They are witty and neither are afraid to say what's on their minds. I would love to read more about these two.

Ready For You is a wonderful story, well written and full of love, pain and suspense. I highly recommend this book. Grab a snack, get comfortable and be ready to dive in and not want to put it down. Bravo D. Love and Madison Daniel.

Giveaway:

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About the Authors:

 D. Love

 
 

Derinda lives in Maine. Her biggest passion is for her family and friends. She adores loving others as if it is the biggest gift life can offer. She is a read-a-holic, loves chocolate, cowboys and everyone on her Young Adult & Teen Readers Facebook page. Her dream is to travel to Australia one day.

"I am nothing but simple. I do a lot of volunteer work. I have 2 beautiful daughters. 4 grandchildren, that constantly ask me if I lived in the black & white days.

My inspiration would be my daughters. Rita for her strength to keep fighting and constantly try to take care of me. Even though sometimes she can't get out of the bed. Kayla, for helping pick up

all the pieces that seem to fall, when times get rough. And the love they have for me."

~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ Twitter ~ 

  
Madison Daniel

Music is LIFE and the written word is our SOUL. Music and writing have been my true ambition since I was a child. I have used music in every form possible; writing it, performing it, healing with it, etc. I call it my "life's soundtrack." I have always written in some form; from comic books to screenplays to short stories and now the new series "Ember." I have found a true passion for my stories and characters and am eager to share them with the world. See you on the next book tour...

~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Website ~ Amazon ~ 

 

Hosted by: One More Chapter

Tour Stop | Stepping Off A Cliff by Doug Dillon @Doug__Dillon

Title:  Stepping Off A Cliff

Author:  Doug Dillon
The St. Augustine Trilogy: Book II

Length:  321 Pages
Genre: YA Paranormal

Released:  Nov. 29, 2013

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BLURB

An otherworldly, evil and dangerous force infests America’s oldest and most haunted city, St. Augustine, Florida. Everyone living there, or visiting, is at risk in ways too horrible to imagine.

Standing between this invader and the people of St. Augustine are teenagers Jeff and Carla, the mysterious Native American shaman, Lobo, and Lyle, the homeless guy.

In their quest to save themselves and all the inhabitants of this ancient Florida city, Jeff and Carla uncover lost parts of St. Augustine history, push past the limits of space and time, and come face-to-face with what they come to realize are the true walking dead.

Book Trailer by Book Dragon Designs

About the Author

A former award-winning educator, Doug writes about things paranormal and historical. His interest in the paranormal comes from personal experiences as detailed in the nonfiction adult book he and wife wrote titled, AN EXPLOSION OF BEING: AN AMERICAN FAMILY'S JOURNEY INTO THE PSYCHIC. Out of those events and extensive historical research, he created SLIDING BENEATH THE SURFACE for young adults, Book I of the St. Augustine Trilogy. Doug set his trilogy in the oldest and most haunted city in the United States, St. Augustine, Florida not only for those reasons, but also because it's his favorite place to visit. Books II and III of the trilogy are on the way.

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Celebrating Susan Griscom's Birthday!

I want to celebrate Susan's birthday with my review and an excerpt from her new book being released March 1, 2014. I love this book and I know you will truly enjoy it. Happy Birthday Susan, have a beautiful day!!

The Fawn

Susan Griscom

A New Adult Novel Sexual content and mature subject matter, including domestic violence and abuse.

This will be a two book series, but both books in The Beaumont Brothers can be read as a standalone.

After a not-so-wonderful young adulthood—shuffled from one foster home to another—Lena Benton had hoped marriage would be her ticket to happiness. Wedded a year after high school graduation, Lena was certain she’d found her knight. But when Troy Harington’s true colors surface shortly after their glorious day of elopement, things aren’t quite as rosy as Lena had envisioned. When an unforeseen event turns ugly, all she can do is ... run!

But does she run far enough?

Jackson Beaumont prides himself on being a nature-loving, guitar-strumming carefree sort of guy, known for his eagerness to help injured animals find their way back into the wild. When Lena Benton walks into his bar, he’s once again swept off his feet with concern and desire to help the wounded. Will he risk having his heart torn apart again when the memory of the fawn he rescued as a child resurfaces?

My Review:

I was lucky enough to get to beta read this book. It is my favorite book by Susan Griscom so far and that is saying a lot. I love her work and The Fawn surpassed my expectations.

Lena is a woman who has found herself in a very abusive marriage. An intense scene in the first chapter painted a very clear portrait of a relationship gone dangerous. Susan's descriptions brought the story to life for me. I felt as if I was in the house with Lena and my heart raced with each second she had to endure her husband Troy's wrath. I applauded when she finally gained the courage to run. From that point on I was emotionally vested in Lena's journey.

Jackson is a man who feels the need to help the helpless. He loves nature and has helped many injured animals recover, releasing them back into the wild. He feels the same desire when a battered Lena walks through the doors of his pub. He can't seem to control his need to protect and help this injured woman. I fell for Jackson immediately. His gentle and loving nature, his guitar playing and all around sexy nature pulled me in.

The Fawn is a story filled with hope. After living through dark times, Lena begins to experience the beauty life and love has to offer. I couldn't put this book down. Susan opened my heart and mind in this beautifully descripted story. I am eagerly awaiting the second book in this series! A truly beautiful story that I think everyone should read.

Excerpt:

“Will you tell me the words?”
“The words?”
“The lyrics. To the song you’re writing.”
“Ah …” Was I ready to reveal them? I shuffled my body so that she’d be more comfortable. “My guitar is all the way downstairs.”
She sighed a heavily. “Can’t you just say the words?”
“I guess,” I said, and picked up her hand, rubbing my thumb over her fingers as I spoke.

Fleeing demons from the past
Only to find she can’t escape
Her wounds are deep and the scars are masked
By her pain as she moves too late

Fleeing demons from the past
Without the pain
Healing wings for hope at last
When every turn seems the same

All her fears can fall away
Right now, here with me

I felt the wetness of her tears on my shirt.
“Come on, baby, you’re exhausted.” I helped her stretch out onto the bed. I knew she had to be tired after the busy day, and it being her first day out. I pulled the cover over her and slid in next to her, holding on to her. At first, I thought she might object, but when she scooted her body up against mine, fitting hers into every curve of mine like we were molded together, I realized that I shouldn’t have worried. She didn’t need to comment on the lyrics, I wasn’t looking for anything, I only hoped she understood them. When she began to sob, my heart broke, and I knew she had. She cried for a while and I held her close. We stayed like that for the rest of the night, her sleeping in my arms.

Add it to your TBR list on Goodreads

Releases on March 1, 2014

Believe by Mia Fox

Title: Believe (Book 1 Chasing Shadows)

Author: Mia Fox

  *** This is a new adult contemporary romance and contains sexual content. It is not intended for young adult readers.*** 

 Open your hearts and minds to…“Believe,” a new adult contemporary romance and the first installment in Mia Fox’s Chasing Shadows Series. “Believe” will be released March 9. Both heart-breaking and filled with hope, the series details the strength of human character in the wake of tragedy and our need to connect to others. Published by Evatopia Press. Cover design by phatpuppyart and photography by Teresa Yeh with typography by Catie Crehan.

Believe (Chasing Shadows Series, Book #1)

Nate survived countless attacks on his Marine platoon while in Afghanistan, but one undying thought kept him safe -- the knowledge that Ella was waiting for him. Ella marked off the days until Nate’s return by writing letters to him, knowing that once he was safely home, they would fulfill their promise to live each day to its fullest. Theirs was a love that would endure separation...even in the wake of a tragic accident. Although now apart, Ella is given reason to believe in ghosts when Nate’s presence visits her and remains her lover. But when another man enters her life, Ella struggles to give herself over to a new love and maintain her bond to Nate’s ghost. A romantic ghost story and love triangle tied to one woman’s need to...Believe.

 Add “Believe” to your Goodreads’ TBR list here... Goodreads  

  About Mia Fox

Mia Fox is a Los Angeles-based novelist who writes across varied genres including Contemporary Romance, Paranormal Romance, Steampunk, and Chick Lit. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from U.S.C. Before writing full time, she worked as an entertainment publicist, a career she chronicles in her novel, “Alert the Media.” However, she is happy to leave that world behind her, preferring that any drama in her life is only that which she creates for her characters. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, three children, Casey, the Wonder Westie, and Bean, his brother.

  Find Mia online 

Mia's Website

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Retribution by AmyThompson

Retribution by Amy Thompson

blurb:

Regan Edison has just moved from California, to enter her first year at Georgia Liberty College, the place where jacked up Chevy trucks and hunting are a way of life. On the evening of her first day of school, Regan was walking back to her dorm when she was viciously attacked by three men. Regan was convinced she was going to die that night…

Colter Hayes is a member of the Collectors and a wrongfully punished lost soul. Colter and the rest of his team, Finn, Kaiden and Devon, work for the Requiem Council, whose purpose is to find lost souls and pass judgment when neither Heaven nor Hell can decide a soul’s fate. Agro, an ex-councilmember, and his soulless Exiles have other plans. Agro steals souls and hands down his own form of judgment, retribution. He punished those members of the Collectors and has now set his sights on Regan. The Requiem Council dispatches the Collectors to Georgia to work as protectors for Regan. 

The Collectors must fight to keep Regan safe from Agro and work to earn back their chance at redemption, but when Colter meets Regan his world changes. Everything he thought he knew about his curse is turned upside down and Regan seems to be the cause.

Can the Collectors find out why Regan is being targeted in time to save her from a fate they know all too well? And are their fates as sealed as they thought?

Who is meant for Heaven? 

         Who is meant for Hell? 

                 And who is just lost?

Let's get to know Amy Thompson!  I asked her a few questions and here are her responces:

1. What is your favorite quote from Retribution?

“Ok there Princess, you most definitely are not bleeding out, you were barely touched and you’re yelling at the only people standing in the way of you and those guys who, if I’m not mistaken were ready to kill you a second ago,” he gave me a questioning look with one raised eyebrow. “Yea, good luck on your own sweetheart,” he finished.

There are so many reasons why I love this quote, but mainly this is the start of Regan and Colter. In one quote you can see how unimpressed and arrogant Colt is. You also can tell how unbelievable stubborn Regan is for arguing with her saviors. Colter and Regan fight and they argue, but is there something driving their interactions.

2. Is Retribution your first book?

Retribution is my first book in the new adult Lost Souls series.

3. What was your inspiration for Retribution?

My inspiration for writing Retribution was my younger sister. She is an avid reader so I wanted to write something that she would actually want to read, and not just because I was family. I also wanted to write something different in the paranormal genre.

4. What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on Relinquish, which is the second book in the Lost Souls series.

5. What is one thing people do not know about you that you wouldn't mind sharing with us?

Let's see, one thing that I don't mind sharing is that I didn't actually start getting into reading until I was in college. After that though, there wasn't a book that I wouldn't read or a free minute that wasn't spent reading.

6. Who is your favorite author?

Amy Bartol. She is an amazing author with incredible stories and her writing is impeccable. Bartol's Premonition series is my absolute favorite and one that I will go back to over and over again. Amy Bartol has the ability to create a world that sucks you in immediately and keeps your attention.

7. Who influenced your writing and how?

My answer is the same as who inspired Retribution. My little sister was so encouraging and she had so many great comments after every chapter that it made me want to write more.

8. If you could have one super power, what would it be?

That ones fun! I would want the power to summon. In Retribution, Council members can summon themselves and others any place they want. With summoning, the Council can also bring forth objects or make them disappear all together.

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?

Anywhere in the world? Does that include other planes? If so, I would choose Exilium, but you'll have to wait until Relinquish to find out why.

10. Use 3 words to describe Retribution.

Unique, passionate, and unexpected.

Thank you so much for taking the time to let us get to know a bit more about you and your work.

Amy Thompson graduated from college with her B.S. in Biology. She currently works as a high school mentor and has just earned her M.S. in Higher Education. Amy is a first time, self-published author of Retribution, a new adult paranormal romance novel that is the first in the Lost Souls series. She lives in Southern Virginia with her family and two lazy cats. Amy Thompson is currently working on the next book in the Lost Souls series, Relinquish and continues to be an avid reader of all things books.

Links:

Goodreads

Facebook

My Review:

I am giving Retribution 4.5 stars! I really enjoyed this book. I think it is an excellent beginning for this series. I honestly didn't want the story to end. I will definitely be reading book two.

Regan is just starting out at college. She is finally going to start a new life for herself, but an unexpected attack changes everything.

Colter is a collector who helps to protect lost souls. He is accompanied by Finn, Devon and Kaiden who are also working towards possible redemption. They have been sent to protect Regan from an ex-council member, who is the one that passed retribution against them.

I couldn't help but fall for Colter, even though he was moody and even cruel at times. As the story progressed I began to understand his behavior and the torment he had endured. I have a soft spot for tortured souls, especially hot ones.

I also loved each of the guys in the story. Who wouldn't want to be guarded by 4 handsome guys who each had their own charming qualities? Devon is sweet and the youngest of the collectors. Finn is the older fatherly type. Kaiden is the silly, fun loving guy. Then of course we have the brooding Colter. *sigh

I found Retribution to be quite an addicting story. The concept of having collectors to protect the lost souls was brilliant. Totally different than any of the books I have read to date. Action, mystery and did I mention hot guys? Great book!

Giveaway:

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