Thursday 31 May 2012

Interview & Giveaway: Succubus Lost

Original Title: Succubus Lost
Series: From the files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency #2
Author: Tiffany Allee
Genre: Paranormal Romance



Someone is kidnapping and incinerating otherworlders beyond recognition, and Detective Marisol Whitman, a succubus, races to find the murderer before he claims another victim. But her pursuit is derailed when her responsible younger sister vanishes. Marisol suspects foul play and enlists support from an unlikely source: an agent from the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency, Valerio Costa.

When the trail pointing to everyone from vampires to witches dries up, Agent Costa admits to knowing more than he’s shared. Marisol’s sister’s kidnapper harnesses more magic than she can imagine—and they’re running out of time. To find her sister before her powers are drained and twisted beyond recognition, Marisol must connect the dots between cases and put her trust in Costa, a salamander who may burn her before she can solve either case.

INTERVIEW WITH TIFFANY


Is there an inspiration behind why you chose writing?

Thank you so much for having me here! I have always been an avid reader, ever since I was a little girl. Even after reading a book I really enjoyed, I would always ponder different things that could have happened. Like what would have happened if she chose the other man instead of the hero, or if the ending had been just a little different. Or I'd imagine what happened after "The End" flashed across the page.

I started writing my own stories so that I could control what happened. However, I've discovered that the characters kind of take on a mind of their own, and everything still doesn't happen quite like I plan.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"? 

I'm sure I changed my mind about this a hundred times, but I usually wanted to be a writer. There were times I dreamed of being an actress as well, or a doctor. But the dream I always came back to was becoming a writer. I did spend my time in college pursing a practical job: accounting. But I've never been able to let the writing dream die.

Finish the sentence- one book I wish I had written is....

The Harry Potter series! Okay, I'll admit that's the greedy side of me talking. ;) I actually try not to wish for things like that. I think that each writer has a unique voice, and while I do have moments where I wish I could reach the levels of other writers I admire, I try not to dwell there. Instead, I concentrate on pushing each of my stories to the best I am capable of at the time, and improve my craft as I go.

What are your current literary works?  Any sneak peaks?

I am currently polishing the third book in the From the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency series. I don't have anything I can share quite yet, but I will tell you that it follows characters from the first two books. Astrid Holmes, the sensitive from the first two stories is the heroine, and she is trying to clear her name. Working with her is Mason Sanderson, who was a Chicago Internal Affairs officer in Banshee Charmer, but by the third book he has moved on to a position with the OWEA.

If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?

I'd love to go into the past and change a few things (I'd buy some Apple stock for one), but in books and movies that way lies dragons. So I might take a peek at the future.

What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?

My favorite scene in a book is the graveyard scene in Stacia Kane's Downside series. I suspect that anyone who has read her books will know exactly what scene I'm referring to, and I love it so much because it ripped my heart out in a way no book has done before or since.

AUTHOR INFO

Tiffany currently lives in Phoenix, AZ, by way of Chicago and Denver, and is happily married to a secret romantic. She spends her days working in Corporate America while daydreaming about sexy heroes, ass-kicking heroines, and interesting ways to kill people (for her books, of course). Her nights are reserved for writing and bothering her husband and cats (according to them). Her passions include reading, chocolate, travel, wine, and family.

AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway prize is a Salamander Pin and Succubus Lost ebook.  The giveaway is open to US Shipping.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday 29 May 2012

Interview & $20 Gift Card Giveaway: A Dance to Die by Rebecca Lee Smith

Original Title: A Dance to Die
Author: Rebecca Lee Smith
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press 
Published Date: April 20th 2012
Genre: Romantic suspense



Annabel Maitland believes in destiny and following her heart—Trent Sheffield realizes his destiny is to believe in her.

Annabel destroyed her Broadway dancing career trying to save her friend Quinn's life. Convinced Quinn’s death was no accident, Annabel follows a clue to a North Carolina mountain inn and discovers that everyone who knew Quinn—the real Quinn—wanted her out of their lives, including the sexy innkeeper whose laid-back charm and megawatt grin take Annabel's breath away. The physical attraction between them is undeniable, the cerebral attraction irresistible. But trusting her heart means ignoring evidence that plants him firmly on the list of suspects.

Determined to keep his family’s financially strapped inn afloat, the last person Trent needs working for him is a stubborn, impossibly long-legged dancer whose sharp wit and silver eyes keep him scrambling to stay on his toes. He's falling hard, and he wants to trust her, but Annabel's connection to his ex-fiancée makes him question her motives at every turn. When a string of mysterious accidents threaten Annabel’s life, they must unearth Quinn's killer before it's too late. But what if Annabel was the target all along?

Monday 28 May 2012

Review & Giveaway: Shadow on the Wall by Pavarti K. Tyler

Original Title: Shadow on the Wall
Series: The SandStorm Chronicles #1
Author: Pavarti K. Tyler
Publisher: Fighting Monkey Press
Published Date: May 1st 2012
Genre: Fantasy






Recai Osman: Muslim, philosopher, billionaire and Superhero?

Controversial and daring, Shadow on the Wall details the transformation of Recai Osman from complicated man to Superhero. Forced to witness the cruelty of the Morality Police in his home city of Elih, Turkey, Recai is called upon by the power of the desert to be the vehicle of change. Does he have the strength to answer Allah's call or will his dark past and self doubt stand in his way?

Pulling on his faith in Allah, the friendship of a Jewish father-figure and a deeply held belief that his people deserve better, Recai Osman must become The SandStorm.

In the tradition of books by Margaret Atwood and Salman Rushdie, Shadow on the Wall tackles issues of religion, gender, corruption and the basic human condition. Beautiful and challenging, this is not a book to miss.

REVIEW


Get ready for another Batman!

Recai Osman is the multi-millionaire young lad, whose life is not any easier than a common man.  When his mother committed suicide and his father left him with no parting words, Recai was a kid.  Dealing these things on his own has made him insecure and angry from the inside..he thinks he could have saved him mother from leaving him.  One day, he wakes up in a desert with no idea how he ended up there.  He was caught in a sandstorm and nearly buried alive, when Hasad, a nice old man, saves him.  Recai was taken care of Hasad and his daughter, Rebekah, with atmost care and compassion.

Between that, the land was occupied by RTK, the morality police, which claims to follow Allah's ways.  But all these treacherous men do, is treat people in the worst way possible.  Recai is still not completely healed, when few of these RTK men come searching into Hasad's house, when Hasad was not there.  They rape Rebekah and kill her in the most humiliating way, making Recai to see all this.  They also try to kill Recai, but somehow, Recai is saved..again.  After 3 years of wandering in the desert, he seeks vengeance for Rebekah's murder and enters the society.  Will he succeed in that cruel land?  Or will his insecurities get the better of him?

This book has everything, any fiction reader would want.  Excellent story-telling and emotional start makes this a success with me.  Strong plot, deep characters.. This novel is definitely not your 'Happily Ever After' kind.  But, this is more of realism, right?  Not everyone gets their HEA..THE FACT!  This was heart-wrenchingly sad in the beginning and as the story moved on, I was still sad.  And even when I finished the book, I was sad..still.

Okay, if you think that I am exaggerating in any way, you really have to read it to find out.  Go on, pick it up!

AMMMAZZZINGGGGG!




AUTHOR INFORMATION


Pavarti K Tyler is an artist, wife, mother and number-cruncher who has been committed to causing trouble since her first moment on this Earth. Her eclectic career has flirted with Broadway, Teaching, Law Firms and the IRS. Author of many short stories, Pavarti spans genres from Horror and Erotica all the way to Fantasy. Currently Pavarti is hard at work establishing her Indie Publishing Company Fighting Monkey Press.

Pavarti K Tyler’s novel Two Moons of Sera is a Fantasy/Romance and began in a serial format in November 2011. Her next novel Shadow on the Wall is scheduled for release in May 2012. Shadow on the Wall is Book One of The SandStorm Chronicles, the saga of Recai Osman — businessman, philosopher, Muslim and . . . superhero.

Author Online: Blog | Tumblr | Facebook | Twitter | Google+

GIVEAWAY

Three lucky winners will receive a digital copy of either The Age of Orphans by Laleh Khadivi (lit fic), Finding Nouf by Zoë Ferraris (mystery), or The Sword of Medina: A Novel by Sherry Jones (women's lit).

JUST COMMENT IN THIS POST WITH YOUR EMAIL ID TO ENTER!

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!  ENDS 28TH MAY 2012!


Its Monday! What are you reading?

Hi, welcome to a new week.  "Its Monday! What are you reading?" meme is hosted by Book Journey.   This is a great way to plan out your reading week and see what others are currently reading as well… you never know where that next “must read” book will come from!


My Past week's Reading

Sunday 27 May 2012

Book Feature: Patchwork of Me by Gregory G. Allen

Original Title: Patchwork of Me
Author: Gregory G. Allen
Publisher: ASD Publishing
Published Date: April 15th 2012
Genre: Contemporary Women's Fiction
Rating: PG13



A product of the foster care system, Sara Butler spends her early thirties hiding from her past while striving for a normal life with her small group of quirky friends in Arizona. Seeking treatment for an invisible rash and abnormal dreams, her therapist helps her unlock a heinous past that she is unsure she wants to open. To patch her life back together, she realizes she must travel across country to Maine to confront that past in order to plan for a future.

What readers have said

"Allen weaves an intricate tapestry of characters, successfully transporting the reader into his world...a compelling read." - Joanne Huspek Blogcritics

"A page-turning, thought provoking, and addictive tale. Allen's vivid characters are rich and real and thoroughly enjoyable." - Spencer Seidel Author of Dead of Wynter

"It's Allen's wisdom and insight - the hopeful message that it is up to us to shape our life and our future - that truly makes this book special. With Patchwork of Me, Greg Allen has made my short list of favorite authors!" - Terri Giuliano Long Author of In Leah's Wake

"It's a kaleidoscope of unexpected twists and turns, emotional and psychological. It's soul-searching; self-discovering, humorous and romantic!" - Arthur Wooten Author of Leftovers

"This book is for anyone who treasures friendship, asks big questions, looks for the truth, or simply enjoys a great story." - Pamela Milam, MA, LPC Author & Columnist

Connect with Gregory Allen on Twitter & Facebook
Website http://www.ggallen.net/#/
Check out where this author will be talking about his latest release!


Musing Mondays #8

Musing Mondays is a meme hosted by Should be Reading.

This week’s musing asks…

If you come across an unfamiliar word, do you stop and look it up right away?


My answer:

Nope, never actually.  I gather my meaning with the remaining sentence and just go on.  Most rarely, I use Kindle dictionary. :)

Now, tell me you answer..I am waiting to hear your answers..

Saturday 26 May 2012

ARC Review: Lucky In Love (Lucky Harbor #4) by Jill Shalvis

Original Title: Lucky In Love
Series: Lucky Harbor #4
Author: Jill Shalvis
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Release Date: May 22nd 2012
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Links: Goodreads | Amazon





Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she's expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she'd like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he's only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he's gone...

For the first time in his life, Ty can't bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn't -- including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all...anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

REVIEW

Thanks to the Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for providing the ARC.

Remember the Lucky Harbor series?  Oh, who am I kidding..you all definitely know about the series.  Well, if you don't know, just start with any of the books in the series you get your hands on.  You need not wait to go in order.  And this particular book - Lucky in Love - definitely doesn't need to any previous books to be read in the series to understand.

Mallory Quinn, a 'good' girl to her family, friends and society, is tired of being a good girl.  She wants one Mr. Wrong, to make her life alive.  Working as a nurse doesn't give you a lot of options though.  But, one stormy night, Mallory, along with Amy (the lonely, but beautiful waitress of the local diner) and Grace (now jobless, but brainy blonde) form a group called 'Chocoholics' and vow to make their lives better.  First, they focus of Mallory and try to get her Mr.Wrong.  During their discussion, Ty, a tough, hot, mysterious male, is met with an accident outside their diner.  The three women tries to help him out and they also think that this is Mallory's Mr.Wrong guy.

You don't want me to continue with how they met and how they got hot..believe me, its always better with Jill Shalvis' writing.  I am a huge fan of the author.  And this book reminded me why I am.

Mallory and Ty are so opposite poles of the society.  But, they couldn't keep their hands off each other.  In spite of their differences, both the couple have been hurt and they acted as each other's medicines to heal themselves.  The mention of some of the names from the previous series is so pleasant, that I felt as though I have heard about my old friends.

At times, I felt like beating Ty on top of his head with a hammer to wake him up and see what is in front of him.  But, no complaints there, either.  I liked the annoying guy, however blind he is.  Bring it on, Jill!  If you write, I will read!

Another beautiful romance from Jill!



SERIES ORDER

   


 

1.  Simply Irresistible
2.  The Sweetest Thing - Read review here
3.  Head Over Heels - Read review here
4.  Lucky In Love
5.  At Last - Read review here
6.  Forever and a Day - Read review here
6.5. Under the MistleToe - Read review here
7.  It Had To Be You - Expected publication: May 28th 2013

Shelf Candy Saturday #7: The Universal Mirror

Welcome to Shelf Candy Saturday, a Saturday meme, hosted by Five Alarm Book Reviews.


This is where I feature a favorite cover and its artist, which does not have to come from a new release or something that I received in my mailbox.  Any cover that I discover and love will fit the bill.  

My pick this week is The Universal Mirror by Gwen Perkins.

Friday 25 May 2012

Guest post & $20 Gift Card Giveaway: The Caves of Etretat by Matt Chatelain

Original Title: The Caves of Etretat
Series: The Caves of Etretat #1
Author: Matt Chatelain
Published Date: December 15th 2011
Genre: Thriller, Adventure



In 2007, Canadian bookstore owner Paul Sirenne is suddenly thrust into a quest for answers, when his parents are found brutally murdered, their bodies cut up and shaped into the letters H.N. Finding a note inside his father's copy of 'The Hollow Needle', by Maurice Leblanc, Sirenne is determined to uncover the roots of his long-forgotten family secret.

He heads to the town of Etretat, France, on the trail of a hundred year old mystery hidden in the pages of the 'Hollow Needle'. Falling in love with Leblanc's great-granddaughter, he deals with puzzles, theories, codes and historical mysteries, leading him to believe that Leblanc held a secret war against Adolf Hitler, fighting for the control of an incredible complex of caves hidden in Etretat's chalk cliffs.

'THE CAVES OF ETRETAT' is the first in a four-book epic adventure following Paul Sirenne, an average man unknowingly manipulated into becoming the key in the final phase of a complex conspiracy spanning millennia. Inextricably woven into history, the series re-writes everything we know in a non-stop rollercoaster of a ride where nothing is ever as it seems.

EXCERPT

Entering my room, I approached the small shelf above my bed. I scanned the titles, finding the book easily, to my relief. Removing it from the shelf, I opened it from the back, finding my father’s original note, an old piece of Vellum paper. The tape holding it in place had dried out and yellowed, the glue having become crusty over time. I wondered why my father had done that, knowing we held the same reverence for books.

The thought slipped away when I read the note he had written so long ago:

Dear Paul:

On the occasion of your ninth birthday, I give you the same book my father gave to me when I was nine. It’s a wonderful story but it is also so much more.

It is the beginning...

The beginning and the end,
Follow the circle, it bends.
The end and the beginning
The answer in the connecting
Your Father

PS:
A real story ends near Etretat
Lost until Paul infers new ideas subtly
You ought understand responsibility,
Necessarily after moiling Etretat

When I had read this note at age nine, I had not grasped my father’s true intent. Today, it seemed obvious that he was signalling the start of a hunt. Something was going on in the town of Etretat and it was connected with this book.

WHEN DID ALL THIS START?
 - A brief article about writing 'The Caves of Etretat' by Matt Chatelain

When did all this start? I've been trying to figure it out. I was hoping you could help me. It was just supposed to be a simple book, you see. One simple book. Was that too much to ask? I was a fledgling author, nothing published to my name. I didn't need to be straddled with a heavy historical mystery. I didn't want to deal with issues of world-wide concern. I wasn't looking for a four-book epic adventure series that would take six years to write.
All I wanted to do was write a book around Etretat. Well, not just Etretat. It also had to be about Maurice Leblanc, because he wrote my favorite books, the exploits of Arsene Lupin, gentleman-thief. Lupin was a likeable rogue, created more than a hundred years ago as a counter to Sherlock Holmes across the Channel. Etretat was his home.
It was all Etretat's fault, I think. That's where it started. When I did the research. The damnable research. There was no getting away from it. After all, my facts had to be right, didn't they? I couldn't present lies in my fiction, now could I? How would people believe me, if my fiction was full of unverified facts? So, you see, I didn't have any choice. It wasn't my fault. Any other author would have done the same.
I'd come across Arsene Lupin as a kid. I'd loved his stories, thinking they were fun adventures, solving fantastic mysteries and always skirting the law, even better than Sherlock Holmes from Conan Doyle, my previous favorite. Who knew Leblanc was tricking us all. He was hiding codes in his books. In all of them. Every one. Count them yourself, if you don't believe me. You'll find more than fourteen hundred. Of course, it'll probably take you a bunch of years to ferret them all out.
Don't worry. That's not what my years were spent doing. No, that's some poor schmuck who got caught by the mystery, same as me. It was luck I found his book. Well, what passes for luck these days. I don't much believe in luck anymore. Or coincidences. Neither of them fool me. I know nothing happens by chance. It's all planted, prepared for those who go looking for the Answers.
So Leblanc was hiding codes in his books. He wasn't alone. Jules Vernes was out there doing it too, both of them writing out a map. If you were clever enough, or trapped in it, like me, then you'd figure out that the map was sending you directly to Rennes-le-Chateau. That's right. The center of the Da Vinci Code thing, or rather, the center of the Holy Blood and Holy Grail thing. That's the book that came before all the others.
It's the one that exposed the mystery of the two small pieces of paper, found by that priest, Sauniere. It exposed the 'Prieure de Sion'. Or would have, if those pieces of paper hadn't been fakes. That's right. You heard me. Fakes, total fakes. I can't explain it here. Heck, I can't even explain it in The Caves of Etretat. No, you have to wait until book two for that.
Don't worry, it's not like Book One is filler or something. No way. It's a rollercoaster ride, is what it is. My rollercoaster ride, the one I've been on, since I found the information, that first night. The tunnels. Etretat is a touristic town, you see, nestled between two huge chalk cliffs, on the English Channel. I didn't even know the place was real. but it's real, all right, and it's got a three hundred foot needle of rock sticking out of the channel waters. You've seen it already, it's the main symbol on my cover.
Leblanc with the codes wrote a book about it, 'The Hollow Needle.' It's his best book. He reveals how the needle was hollow, used as a repository for treasure by Kings and Queens of France. He was lying. It was all subterfuge. He was drawing your attention away from the prize.
The cliffs. And the tunnels. Never forget the tunnels.
So, in answer to your question, Research is at fault. It's where it all started, my obsession with Etretat and those ancient tunnels. I couldn't let it go. Weirdest thing yet, another 'coincidence', my simple story had not only linked into a real historical mystery, it had linked to an earlier, failed attempt at a book, 'The Greyman'. I hadn't had the skills back then to produce the book my vision required. I'd wanted to express certain spiritual beliefs in an action format, that the world was an illusion.
That's how the series came about. A single, supposedly innocent, little book, connected to deep, historical mysteries, connected to the ultimate questions a person could have about life, the universe and everything.
All the fault of research. I hardly had anything to do with it. I was just the guy who happened to be there, writing it all down.
I haven't told anyone else about this so far, so pay attention. Book One is not what it seems. No matter what you think book one is about, the story you read, the things that happened, why they happened, it's not. I wrote something else into it, something hidden, Sirenne's real adventure. If you haven't read 'The Caves of Etretat' yet, don't be fooled by the bobsled action pace, by all the twists, the theories, the puzzles, the codes, and especially, not the tunnels. Try to look past all that, and see the real story.
Then get ready, cause Book One, rollercoaster though it may be, is nothing compared to what's coming in the series. I can't tell you anymore about that. You'll have to do your own research. Yes, that's right, do your own research... and then, you'll see. You'll understand what happened to me.
Or you can just read my books and save yourself all that time.
Because, I didn't just start it, I finished it. Took me six years and it changed my life. Have you ever read a series where the ending falls flat, where all that big buildup leads to a hot air balloon, impressive on the outside but empty on the inside? This is not one of those series. I hate those series. Book One is a sleeper. I call it fuzzy. It does not really let you anticipate where the rest is going. Each book builds in scope and pace, leading to 'The Greyman', the ending beyond all endings, bringing you right back to book one. Reading the series reveals the hidden layers and book one stops being fuzzy, becoming book five.
Sirenne, even though he didn't know it, was looking for answers to mankind's deepest questions. Why are we here? Is the universe real? What is it all about? He was looking for me, living in his fiction world, going where I could not go. He went there, he hung around for a while, and came back, with pictures, to tell us all about it.
You can read more on my website, in a slightly more serious twenty-five hundred word bio-essay on writing the series. While you're there, check out the link to an online free copy of 'The Hollow Needle' by Leblanc (central to my story. The title of book two 'The Four Books of Etretat' refer to four extremely special copies of 'the Hollow Needle'), or listen to two audio excerpts from the series. If you prefer, sign up for my free monthly draw for signed copies of my book. Thanks for reading this article. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born in Ottawa, fifty-two years ago, I have been the owner of a used bookstore I opened in Ontario, since 1990. I have been writing since I was ten. Beginning with poetry, I quickly moved on to short stories and non-fiction pieces. I stayed in that format for many years, eventually self-publishing a franchise manual (How to Open Your Own Used Bookstore), as well as a variety of booklets, such as 'How to Save Money at Home', 'Build a Greenhouse with Style' and the ten booklet series of Eddy Brock, Brockville Detective.

Having semi-retired from the bookstore, I embarked on the project of writing my first serious novel, which I expanded to a four book series after discovering an incredible mystery hidden within Maurice Leblanc's books.

My interests are eclectic. I like Quantum Physics, Cosmology, history, archaeology, science in general, mechanics, free power, recycling and re-use. I'm a good handyman and can usually fix just about anything. I'm good with computers. I love movies, both good and bad, preferring action and war movies. I can draw and paint fairly well but am so obsessed with perspective and light that I cannot think of much else. I am too detail oriented. Takes too long to finish anything.

AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Facebook

GIVEAWAY

Matt will be awarding a $20 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour as well as to the host whose post receives the most comments (excluding his or the host's) during the tour.

JUST COMMENT IN THIS POST WITH YOUR EMAIL ID TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY!

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY! ENDS JUNE 8TH, 2012!


Thursday 24 May 2012

Feature & Follow #13

RULES
  • To join the fun and make new book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:
  • (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Hosts {Parajunkee and Alison Can Read}
  • (Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers
  • Put your Blog name and URL in the Linky thing. You can also grab the code if you would like to insert it into your posts.
  • Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say “hi” in your comments and that they are now following you.
  • Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don’t just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don’t say “HI”
  • If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love…and the followers.
If you’re new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Wednesday 23 May 2012

IPod Touch Giveaway & Interview with K. Reed!

Original Title: Dark Inheritance: Fallen Empire
Series: Fallen Empire #1
Author: K. Reed
Release Date: May 8th 2012
Genre: Historical Regency



The once glittering ballrooms of Regency England now lay desolate. A plague has ravaged the countryside. The government has fallen. What vestiges of order remained have been consumed by the endless funeral pyres.

Grayson, once the Baron of Harwich, sought only to protect his people. Rescuing a half-dead woman was not among his plans. But something about her pulled at him. Perhaps it was her beauty, still evident beneath the pallor of loss. Perhaps it was the recently fired rifle at her side. Or maybe he was simply tried of death. All he knew was that the plague had taken too much already. He couldn’t let it take her as well.

Interview and Giveaway (INT'L): Destiny's Fall by Marie Bilodeau

Original Title: Destiny's Fall
Series: Destiny #2
Author: Marie Bilodeau
Publisher: Dragon Moon Press
Published Date: April 14th 2012
Genre: Paranormal






A broken tradition. A hunted child. A rebellion that threatens to topple the very fabric of the universe.

When Layela Delamores gives birth to her first child, the ether immediately rejects what should be its only heir. A wave of destruction sweeps the ether races and sparks Solaria’s ire and rebellion on Mirial. A new heir rises to take the throne of Mirial, one who wields tainted ether.

Unable to access the flow of ether, Layela is left with little choice but to flee Mirial, seeking answers that may no longer exist, prepared to sacrifice everything to free herself and her daughter from the clutches of the First Star.


EXCERPT

 “Cap’ain!” her second-in-command, a short man named Larod, screamed.

 “Gun the engines, get us out!”

 “Solariers are telling us to stand down,” said Jaru, her systems analyst.

 “And I’m saying the docks need redecorating. Gun the engines!”

The two moved quickly to obey her order. The engines churned to life, the scent of rotten cabbage pumping through the entire ship. The ship jerked once and the engine popped, and her hull vibrated, resonating in Avienne’s skull.

 “Come on, you useless piece of crap!” She kicked the tactical controls and half the panel lights blinked out.

 “Blood and bones, I need to steal a better ship!” The engines sputtered and the ship stopped vibrating. 

 “Engines online, Captain!” Jaru screamed. Avienne whooped and switched the viewport on. The entire metal structure of the docks buckled as they pulled free without first de-clamping, ripping great chunks of metal. The Dessicate’s engines kicked in full blast, throwing Avienne back into her seat. The docks swayed for a moment when the engine’s jet of hot hair struck them, then buckled sideways, and seemed to be righting themselves before suddenly collapsing in a heap of smoke and metal, dragging a few of the smaller ships down.

Avienne hissed. That made a nice, round ten worlds on which she would no longer be welcome. She was running out of planets to do business on.

“Where to, Captain?” Larod asked from navigations. 

“Mirial. I believe it’s time to pay my brother a visit.”

INTERVIEW WITH MARIE BILODEAU


Is there an inspiration behind why you chose writing?

I believe an incessant need to make life more interesting by making stuff up was a main motivator to write, but growing up in a family that loved books was definitely an inspiration. 

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?

A hairdresser!  Really badly.  For about a day.  Or She-Ra.  Oh, wow, I suddenly feel like I let Little Marie down. At least I still have a She-Ra. Lots of She-Ras, actually.  See?


Finish the sentence- one book I wish I had written is....

1984. Not because of its social messaging, but because that is one creepy ending.

What are your current literary works?  Any sneak peaks?

I’m working on a top-secret sword and sorcery manuscript (ooh!), and the third part of the Destiny series.  It’s going to be a wild ride, my friends! Unedited sneak peak of my not-so-top-secret top-secret project, since you asked so nicely:

The boy dared to glance at him.  “The war infected everything, my mom says. …said. We’re hungry because the soldiers needed food, and cold because they needed heat.”
    “But the war is over, now,” the warrior’s companion whispered.
    The boy shook his head. “It isn’t. Can’t be. Mom said that as soon as it’s over, we’ll have plenty.” He pierced her with his wide eyes, his mouth trembling. “You’re wrong. People are supposed to stop dying when the war’s over.”

    …it has funny bits, too, FYI.

If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?

Oh, both! I’d keep that time machine for a good time (um, no pun intended). I’d go back two-thousand years ago and give someone who suffered from migraines a bottle of Tylenol, and then I’d come back to see how I’d mucked up the mythology of that culture.  And then I’d go in the future and steal some super high tech projection device and make people really believe in ghosts. I’m not sure why, except that I think it would be fun.

If you could be one of the Greek Gods, which would it be and why?

Demeter.  She gets six months off.  Oh, I know, the daughter in Hades shtix, but after thousands of years of that cycle going on, knowing your daughter will come back, I think it’s really just an extended vacation. 

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book. 

It’s freakin’ awesome.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

A young girl wrote to me to tell me how my books had inspired her.  One of my goals as a writer was to inspire young women through strong female characters – to make them believe they don’t need the knight in shining armour and that they, in fact, can be that knight for themselves and others.  I needed that as a teenager, and it was hard to find.  So to inspire one young woman, and then another, and another… it’s fulfilling a heartfelt goal (though becoming She-Ra would still be cool).

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?

Be true to yourself and your style, and always strive to become better.

If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?

Most of my favourite reads have horrible creatures and consequences to everything.  And natural disasters that sweep towns/cities/countries/continents away regularly. So none of those.  I’ll escape in the time machine to avoid this question, if necessary.

If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?


Caffeinated into Blurry Existence.

What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?

I don’t want to spoil anything (so I won’t), but I love the end. It’s not clear-cut, and it’s not a win, but it’s a good end for this book. And I also love the first scene in the second chapter, in which Avienne Malavant, a failed smuggler, is debating going back home to see her brother in his perfect little world, or to drink her swirly booze and make out with some ugly trader. Well, it’s funny when you read it…

What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?

I have a high embarrassment threshold, but I guess I read lots of horrible zombie books and I die of laughter when I watch America’s Next Top Model. I miss most of the seasons, though, since I’m horrible at remembering TV schedules, quite sadly.

What is one book everyone should read?

I think just the act of reading is important.  Let the story, the language, the action or romance sweep you away.  If you’re a writer, pay attention to what you like and what you dislike.  Remember not to put your readers through anything you don’t like!

One food you would never eat?

In theory, there are plenty, but in reality, it usually ends up with me saying something like: “it’s got how many legs?  Sure! I’ll totally try that!”  I have many food eating regrets.


QUICK ANSWERS

Favorite place?
Wherever my family is (awww. Seriously, though, they usually come bearing chocolate.)

Best christmas present?
My She-Ra Crystal Castle. I was 6, but it still doesn’t get better than that. 

Favorite book?

Depends on the day, weather, amount of caffeine, height of the river and comfort of my socks. I love many, many books.

Favorite author?

See above, and add dependent on which fruit is in season and which drink they prefer. 

Favorite smell?
Chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven.

Favorite series?
Ooh, I have so many! My favourite recent series (I won’t wuss out like I did on the author and book questions) is the Princess series by Jim C. Hines. Serious fun.

Nickname?
No nickname! I’m a 100% genuine Marie. At least, no nickname people use to my face…

Favorite writing spot?

Coffee shop downtown, especially when they serve hazelnut or maple coffee.

Favorite movie?

Independence Day or The Hours (greatly depends on mood…)

Favorite dish?
Pickled things. Or anything with chocolate.  Except perhaps for pickled chocolate.

Favorite color?
That perfect shade between candy pink and burgundy.

Favorite quote?
“Never give up. Never surrender.” – Galaxy Quest

Favorite flavor of ice cream?

Straight up chocolate.

Your best trait?
Perseverance.  Or the index finger on my left hand (picture included for you to decide).

Your worst trait?
I’m a procrasti-cook, though I doubt my roommate would argue that’s a bad trait.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Marie Bilodeau is an Ottawa-based science-fiction and fantasy author. Her space fantasy novel, Destiny’s Blood, was a finalist in the Aurora Awards and won the Bronze Medal for Science-Fiction in the Foreword Book Awards. She is also the author of the Heirs of a Broken Land, a fantasy trilogy described as “fresh and exciting” by Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo award-winning author of WAKE. Her short stories have appeared in several magazines and anthologies, including the recent When the Hero Comes Home, edited by Ed Greenwood and Gabrielle Harbowy.

Marie is also a professional storyteller who’s told adaptations of fairy tales and myths, as well as original stories, in venues across Canada. More at www.mariebilodeau.com.

GIVEAWAY

Marie will give away a signed eBook copy of Destiny's Blood (the first book in the series) to one randomly drawn commenter at every stop, and an autographed set of Destiny's Blood and Destiny's Fall in print (US and Canada only) or eBook (International) to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.

COMMENT WITH YOUR EMAIL ID FOR ENTERING THIS GIVEAWAY!

Reply to the author's question with a comment!!!
" What else did everyone want to be when they grew up? Impress me with your early onset of maturity! (Or join me in the not so much with the maturity stage....) ;) " 

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!  GIVEAWAY ENDS JUNE 8TH!


Tuesday 22 May 2012

Review & $75 Gift Card Giveaway: Golden Chariot by Chris Karlsen

Original Title: Golden Chariot
Author: Chris Karlsen
Publisher: Bookstogonow
Published Date: March 2012
Genre: Mystery, Contemporary Romance



The rare discovery of a ship sunk during the time of the Trojan War has been found off the coast of Turkey, near Troy. Charlotte Dashiell is an American nautical archaeologist and thrilled to be part of the recovery team. The wreck may contain proof of her highly controversial theory about the Trojan War.

Charlotte is present when the Turkish government agent assigned to guard the site is murdered. Her possible involvement and a questionable connection to a private collector of black market relics bring her under suspicion. Atakan Vadim is the Turkish agent sent to investigate her. Unknown to either of them, the smuggler behind the murder plans to steal a valuable artifact and frame Charlotte for the theft...after they murder her.

EXCERPT

Shouts of “fire” came from all sides of the camp. The west wind blew sparks in the direction of the lab. They could lose the entire camp, but not the lab, not the artifacts.

Charlotte grabbed an empty barrel from the fire line. She ran with it and started climbing the stairs to the shower stall’s water tank. A man’s large hand covered her mouth. His other hand brandished a gun. With the cold barrel to her ear, he walked her backwards down the few steps to the ground.

“Don’t scream.” Little-by-little his palm came away from her mouth.

REVIEW

Charlotte is an American archaeologist, who wishes to prove an interesting theory about Trojan Wars.  She travels to the Turkish Coast and caught in a shipwreck..not only that, but also she becomes the prime suspect to the murder that takes place in that ship.  Atakan is the male, who is responsible to investigate that murder.  He was annoyingly suspicious on Charlotte at first.  But, when Atakan knows that Charlotte is not behind the murder, the attraction between the couple grow.  Yeah, there is romance and its good.  Will Atakan be able to bring the real murderers, saving Charlotte?  Is Charlotte's interesting theory true?

Charlotte and Atakan's adventures in undersea are really cool stuff and their discovery of Tron's and Trojan War's artifacts are really amusing.  The character formation and dialogue writing was so good.  Although I am new to the author, this author is one of those talents that I missed out.  The Trojan War facts are interesting to read and felt like reading one of Dan Brown's.

Romance and mystery combined, this book was a great read! 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


I was born and raised in Chicago. My father was a history professor and my mother was, and is, a voracious reader. I grew up with a love of history and books.

My parents also love traveling, a passion they passed onto me. I wanted to see the places I read about, see the land and monuments from the time periods that fascinated me. I’ve had the good fortune to travel extensively throughout Europe, the Near East, and North Africa.

I am a retired police detective. I spent twenty-five years in law enforcement with two different agencies. My desire to write came in my early teens. After I retired, I decided to pursue that dream.

I currently live in the Pacific Northwest with my husband, four rescue dogs and a rescue horse. 

AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Facebook

GIVEAWAY

Chris will award eBook copies of her paranormal romance series to one commenter at every stop, a $75 Amazon GC grand prize to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.

JUST LEAVE A COMMENT TO THE AUTHOR WITH YOUR EMAIL ID TO ENTER $75 GC GIVEAWAY.  

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!  ENDS MAY 25TH 2012!

Monday 21 May 2012

Find the Fact! Donna Grant Sooper Dooper Release Day Blog Hop!




From the acclaimed author of the Dark Sword novels comes a thrilling spin off series in which ancient magic in the modern world ignites a timeless passion…

A MYSTERY OUT OF TIME

Gwynn Austin has no idea why her father has disappeared on a mysterious trip to Scotland.  When she goes on a desperate mission to search for him she finds more than she bargains for in a ruggedly handsome, wickedly exciting Highlander who exudes danger and mystery. And when she discovers her own link to Scotland, she’ll have to trust her heart to help lead her….

A LEGEND IN THE FLESH

Propelled through time by powerful Druid Magic, Logan Hamilton uses his immortality and powers of the god inside him to help prevent the awakening of an ancient evil in the modern world. He never expects to find help in the form of a beautiful, alluring, and all too tempting woman whose passion and strength matches his own. Together, Logan and Gywnn must fight for their love—before a demon from the past destroys them both…

RANDOM INFO ABOUT THE NOVEL


About Logan

The youngest of the Warriors, he’s always ready with a smile. He’s the loyal one, the Warrior who will never abandon his brothers, but the secrets of his past won’t lossen their hold and the darkness threatens to swallow him.  So, this is your Warrior fact: "Name of Logan's god: Athleus"
Born:April 1470
Turned:1488God:Athleus, god of betrayal
Warrior Color:Silver
Abilities:Control over water

About Gwen

Gwynn
A Druid with extraordinary magic. That magic will draw her deeper into the forbidden world of the Warriors and pit her against her family. She’ll have to choose between her family and the man who captured her heart with one smile.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR



Donna Grant is the bestselling, award winning author of more than twenty-five novels spanning multiple genres of romance.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Her childhood dream was to become a professional ballet dancer and study under the amazing Mikhail Baryshnikov. Though she never got to meet Baryshnikov, she did make it to New York City and performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Later, Donna’s love of the romance genre and the constant stories running through her head prompted her to sit down and write her first book. Once that book was completed, there was no turning back.

Donna sold her first book in November 2005 while displaced from Hurricane Rita, a storm that destroyed portions of the Texas Gulf Coast. Since then, Donna has sold novels and novellas to both electronic and print publishers. Her books include several complete series such as Druids Glen, The Shields, Royal Chronicles, Sisters of Magic, Dark Sword, Dark Warriors, and her new series, Dark Kings.

Despite the deadlines and her voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two young children, four cats, three fish, and one long haired Chihuahua. She’s blessed with a proud, supportive husband who loves to read and travel as much as she does.

AUTHOR ONLINE
Donna's Website http://www.donnagrant.com/
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/AuthorDonnaGrant
Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/donna_grant
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1141209.Donna_Grantand


GIVEAWAY

An autographed copy of Darkest Highlander AND a brand spanking new copy of Midnight's Master either in Print or eBook Form PLUS a 10.00 Amazon GC.. How do you win this prize? Read on..

Giveaway Rules

  1. Follow "Books Are Magic" on Facebook, Twitter, RSS, email, Google+, Linky or GFC.. - atleast follow using any 3 ways and of course leave a comment with the IDs through which you followed..
  2. NEXT you must travel along the Blog Hop gathering Warrior Facts.. 
  3. When you have gathered all of them, email your answers to Shauni_qotu@innovativeonlinebooktours.com don't leave them in the comments sections.. cuz you will be giving away chances to win..
  4. Whoever has the most correct answers will be eligible to win!!

Cover Reveal & Giveaway: Succubus Lost

Original Title: Succubus Lost
Series: From the files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency #2
Author: Tiffany Allee
Genre: Paranormal Romance



Someone is kidnapping and incinerating otherworlders beyond recognition, and Detective Marisol Whitman, a succubus, races to find the murderer before he claims another victim. But her pursuit is derailed when her responsible younger sister vanishes. Marisol suspects foul play and enlists support from an unlikely source: an agent from the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency, Valerio Costa.

When the trail pointing to everyone from vampires to witches dries up, Agent Costa admits to knowing more than he’s shared. Marisol’s sister’s kidnapper harnesses more magic than she can imagine—and they’re running out of time. To find her sister before her powers are drained and twisted beyond recognition, Marisol must connect the dots between cases and put her trust in Costa, a salamander who may burn her before she can solve either case.


AUTHOR INFO


Tiffany currently lives in Phoenix, AZ, by way of Chicago and Denver, and is happily married to a secret romantic. She spends her days working in Corporate America while daydreaming about sexy heroes, ass-kicking heroines, and interesting ways to kill people (for her books, of course). Her nights are reserved for writing and bothering her husband and cats (according to them). Her passions include reading, chocolate, travel, wine, and family.


AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway prize is a Salamander Pin and Succubus Lost ebook.  The giveaway is open to US Shipping.



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Interview & Giveaway: Straight to Heaven by Michelle Scott

Original Title: Straight to Heaven
Series: Lilith Straight #2
Author: Michelle Scott
Publisher: Urban Fae Publications
Published Date: May 1st 2012
Genre: Fantasy











Hell’s newest employee, Lilith Straight, thinks she’s got a handle on her job as the Devil’s temptress until she finds herself going horns-to-halo with a guardian angel who’s determined to rescue Lilith’s next victim. To make matters worse, William Darcy, the hottest demon in hell, is trying to undermine Lilith’s mission with a few temptations of his own.



INTERVIEW WITH MICHELLE SCOTT


Is there an inspiration behind why you chose writing? 

I’ve always wanted to create my own endings to stories.  For example, when I was a kid, I would read Sleeping Beauty or Cinderella, and think of alternate endings that I liked better.  Now that I’m a writer, I get to not only come up with my own ending, but my own beginning and middle as well!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?

Well, this is kind of embarrassing, but in the 1970’s I used to love this TV show called The Love Boat.  The Love Boat was a cruise ship and every week, there were be three new stories about couples who fell in love while cruising through the Bahamas.  I really wanted to be Julie, the cruise director of the ship.  That was my big goal.  Never mind that I get seasick and am way too shy to talk to strangers.


What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year? 

I’m really into movies, so there are a lot of them that interest me.  I think my favorite will be Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Slayer which is directed by Tim Burton.  For some reason, I think that the real Abraham Lincoln would find this very funny.

As far as books go, I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment of Liani Taylor’s Daughter of Smoke and Bone series.  The book, Days of Blood and Starlight, is out, but I haven’t had a chance to read it yet.

What are your current literary works?  Any sneak peaks? 

Well, the third installment in the Lilith Straight series is scheduled to be released in December.  You can bet that things get out of hand now that Mr. Clerk is no longer running the office.

I’m also working on an urban fantasy involving a down-on-her-luck actress, a theater full of vampires, and a really gorgeous vampire killer who runs a comic book store.  I’m hoping to finish this one by early next year.

If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?

I don’t have to cook, right?  Lol.  I’d go for Stephen King, Karou from Daughter of Smoke and Bone, Johnny Depp, Princess Di, and President Obama.  I can’t imagine what they would all talk about, but I’m sure it would be interesting.

Which authors have influence on you most.. how?

I jokingly tell people that Stephen King taught me how to write.  His were the first ‘adult’ novels that I ever read, and they not only scared the you-know-what out of me, they also taught me what it means to love a book so much that you think about it for days after you’ve finished reading it.  I’ve always wanted to write books that were so compelling that people would stay up too late at night to read them.  I also love the Canadian author Margaret Atwood and Joyce Carol Oates.  Both of those women write gripping stories with very strong female characters.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.

Since it’s about a woman stuck in an impossible situation, I wanted my readers to wonder what they would have done if they’d been put in Lilith’s place.  Hopefully, this book is a conversation starter.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

Holding a copy of my book!  It is so exciting to spend a year laboring over a project and then, finally, having the evidence of all that hard work in your hands.  It’s something I never get tired of.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors? 

Write every day, but at the same time, don’t let your writing monopolize your life.  It’s easy to become consumed with your writing, but you don’t want to isolate yourself.  We need to be out among our friends and family.  Or, at least, I do!

If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?

Here’s a clue, lol:

Yes, Hogwarts is where I want to live.  I see myself teaching magical runes or something.

What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?

I love the scenes with Lilith and Mr. Clerk.  I think the two of them have a lot of chemistry.  They frequently bicker, but they share a love of fashion and reality TV.  I like how Lilith has Mr. Clerk’s best interests at heart and tries to rescue him from his dull, little life as the demon overlord’s secretary.

What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?

*blushes*  Dance Moms.  Yes, I know, I know…this is probably the worst show on television, but I’m fascinated by it.  My daughter and I have a standing date to watch it every Tuesday night.  I sometimes think those women bear a striking resemblance to Lilith’s demon overlord, Helen Spry.



What is one book everyone should read? 

Yikes!  That’s a tough one.  I guess I would say The Stand by Stephen King.  Not only is it one of the most fascinating books I have ever read (I’m a sucker for post-apocalyptic novels), but I love the interplay of good and evil, especially in the characters themselves.  I think that King is as fascinated with God and the devil as I am.


One food you would never eat?

Squid.  You can call it calamari if you’d like, but to me, it’s always going to be squid!

QUICK ANSWERS


Favorite place?
My backyard in summertime reading a book in the swing.

Best Christmas present?
Anything that my kids have made for me!

Favorite book?
The Stand by Stephen King

Favorite author?
Stephen King

Favorite smell?
Woodsmoke.  I love camping, and this reminds of camping.

Favorite series?
For TV, I’d say Lost.  For books, I’d go with Harry Potter.

Nickname?
Mom, lol.  That’s about it!

Favorite writing spot?
My attic office above my garage.

Favorite movie?
Donny Darko or American Beauty

Favorite dish?
Barbequed ribs

Favorite color?
Mango.

Favorite quote?
“Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.” – Henry James

A bunch of small gifts or one big expensive one?
Little presents!

Your best trait?
I share my chocolate with people.

Your worst trait?
I’m a workaholic.

GIVEAWAY


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