December Giveaways' Winners (overdue) + Status Update

There were a few giveaways on the blog that ended in December, so I thought to do them all in one post (well, it's convenient:P). So, without further ado...

Winners of an ecopy of Where Thy Dark Eye Glances by Chani Lynn Feener:

#66 - The Lovely Reader

#34 - Nat Cleary

Winner of an ecopy of The New Death and others by James Hutchings:

#23 - Angela

Winners of an ecopy of Raven by Nuayma Jeggels:

#29 - Rebecca

#28 - Nat Cleary

#60 - Alyssa A.

Winner of an ecopy of Notes to Self by Laura Schaefer:

#28 - Evangeline

Winner of a paperback copy of Conquest by Vik Rubenfeld:

#6 - Kara DiDomizio

Winners of an ecopy of Conquest by Vik Rubenfeld:

#15 - Ranma

#12 - Thalia

Winner of an ecopy of The Next Thing I Knew by John Corwin:

#82 - Nylez @ Book Quotes and Lyrics

All winners have been contacted and most prizes have been claimed. Thank you, all of you, for participating in my blog's giveaways! There are still 3 more going on and their links are at the top left hand corner of the blog.:)

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Status Update

I haven't been posting much lately - my last post was on tuesday! To tell the truth, I think it's because the books I'm reading lately are a little dull, so now my reading pace is phenomenally slow. Actually, I haven't touched a book in 2 days. That's how bad it is. And I'm going on a trip to Korea soon, so my next post will probably be on Jan 9th, 2012. So, see you then!

Have a Happy, Prosperous New Year, Everyone!

Farsighted Blog Tour: Excerpt + Giveaway

Announcing the Farsighted Social Media Whirlwind Tour!

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the Farsighted eBook edition is just 99 cents this week.

What’s more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes, including lots of Amazon gift cards (up to $100 in amount) and 5 autographed copies of the book. Be sure to enter before the end of the day on Friday, December 30th, so you don’t miss out.

 

 

To Win the Prizes

1. Purchase your copy of Farsighted for just 99 cents on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
2. Fill-out the form on Novel Publicity to enter for the prizes
3. Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book or a $50 gift card!
4. BONUS: If you leave a comment on this blog post, you have another chance at $100!
5. DOUBLE BONUS: If I receive more comments than any other blogger, *I* win $100.

...And I can win too!

Over 100 bloggers are participating in this gigantic event, and there are plenty of prizes for us too. The blogger who receives the most votes in the traffic-breaker poll will win a $100 gift card as well. So when you visit Novel Publicity’s site to fill-out the contest entry form, don’t forget to say that I referred you, so I can get a point in the poll.

The Featured Events include:

Monday, a guest blog on Novel Publicity! Emlyn kicks off the tour on the Novel Publicity Free Advice blog by discussing her brightly burning passion for books in a guest post entitled “My journey through the pages and toward a life-long love of reading.” One commenter will win an autographed copy of Farsighted. Don’t forget to enter for the other contest prizes while you’re over there!

Tuesday, Twitter sharing contest! A tweet is tiny, only 140 characters. But on Tuesday, it could win you $50. Send the following tweet across the twittersphere, and you just may win a $50 Amazon gift card. An autographed copy of Farsighted is also up for grabs. The winners will be announced Wednesday morning. Here’s the tweet: Looking for a fun read to round out your holiday break? The paranormal YA hit Farsighted is just 99 cents! http://ow.ly/81Dt1 #whirlwind

Wednesday, Google+ sharing contest! Yup, there’s yet another awesome opportunity to win a $50 Amazon gift card, and this time it just takes a single click! Visit Google+ and share Emlyn Chand’s most recent post (you’ll see the Stay Farsighted book cover included with it). On Thursday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. An autographed copy of Farsighted is also up for grabs. Two chances to win with just one click! How about that?

Thursday, Facebook sharing contest! Stop by Novel Publicity’s Facebook page and share their latest post (you’ll see the Farsighted book cover included with it). It’s ridiculously easy to win! On Friday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. An autographed copy of Farsighted is also up for grabs.

Friday, special contest on the author’s site! Are you ready for some more fun? Take a picture of yourself with your copy of Farsighted either in paperback or on an eReading device, then post it to Emlyn Chand’s Facebook page or email a copy to author@emlynchand.com. You just way win one of three Amazon gift cards! A $100 prize will go to the photo with the most interesting setting (so put your holiday travel time to work for you). Another $50 will go the funniest photo, and one more prize of $50 will go the scariest photo—this is a paranormal YA book after all. An autographed copy of Farsighted will go to one randomly selected entrant. For more details about this contest, please visit http://www.emlynchand.com/.

Remember, it’s all about the books!

About Farsighted: Alex Kosmitoras may be blind, but he can still “see” things others can’t. When his unwanted visions of the future begin to suggest that the girl he likes could be in danger, he has no choice but to take on destiny and demand it reconsider. Farsighted is the winner of the 2011 Dragonfly eBook Awards. Get it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

About the Author: Emlyn Chand has always loved to hear and tell stories, having emerged from the womb with a fountain pen grasped firmly in her left hand (true story). When she’s not writing, she runs a large book club in Ann Arbor and is the president of author PR firm, Novel Publicity. Emlyn loves to connect with readers and is available throughout the social media interweb. Visit her on her website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.

Now please enjoy this exciting excerpt from Farsighted...

“Did Dad tell you? A new tenant moved into the old pharmacy next door.”

“Really?” I ask, not letting on I already know. If I feign ignorance, Mom’ll divulge all the details. “What is it?”

“It’s a psychic shop,” Her voice crackles with excitement like a fire that’s just beginning to burn. “The All-Seeing Miss Teak. Isn’t that cute? Miss Teak, Mystic. Ha, I wonder if that’s her real name.”

I laugh. “That is funny. Never had a psychic in town before. What’s she like?”

“Oh, she’s very friendly. Why don’t you go over and say ‘hi.’ I’m sure she’d like to meet you.”

“Okay, I think I will.” I’m incredibly intrigued, because first off, it’s a psychic shop—how weird is that?—and second, its presence made Dad super uncomfortable—also very cool. I waste no time heading next door to check out the scene.

As I step cautiously into the new shop, a recording of soft, instrumental music greets me. I can make out chimes and a string instrument I don’t recognize but for some reason reminds me of snake charmers. The smell of incense fills my nostrils, which explains the burning I detected earlier.

“Hello?” I call out into the otherwise quiet room.

Nobody answers. I walk in deeper, sweeping my cane out in front of me in a metronome fashion. This place is new to me, so I need to be especially careful while moving around.

Thump! Despite my precautions, I stub my toe on something hard, big, and made of wood. Just my luck to stub the same toe twice in one day. I reach down to press my fingers into my throbbing foot to alleviate some of the pain. Something teeters before rolling off of the chest and across the floor; the sound it makes indicates a curved path. Suddenly, the object stops. Somebody’s stopped it.

“Hello?” I call again.

“Hello,” a deep, feminine voice responds, placing more emphasis on the first syllable than the second.

“I- I’m sorry I knocked that thing over. I didn’t mean to…” I hope she’s not angry. Probably not a good idea to get on a psychic’s bad side.

“That wasn’t just a thing, it’s a crystal ball,” she says as she walks over, sending my blood pulsing through my veins. I sense her looking at me for a moment before she places the ball back on top of the chest.

“Can it see the future?” I ask, allowing my curiosity to outweigh my uneasiness.

“No.” After a pause lasting several beats, she continues. “But I can see the future sometimes when I look into it.”

“Oh, okay.” I tighten my hand around my cane and turn to leave. It may not be the most polite thing to do, but all of this hocus-pocus stuff is freaking me out more than I would’ve guessed.

The psychic lady speaks again, stopping me cold. “Don’t run away, Alex Kosmitoras.” She must’ve spoken to Mom earlier today. That must be how she knows my name.

“I’m not running away,” I say meekly. “I’m just going back over to Sweet Blossoms.”

“Don’t run away,” she repeats—this time she speaks louder and with more energy. “Don’t run away from your abilities. They are gifts.”

“What?” I ask in confusion. What abilities is she talking about?

“You already know. Watch. Listen. Be open to your gifts.”

I turn to face Miss Teak, but find she’s already gone, returning to wherever she was before I got there.

Is it safe to leave? I trail my fingers across the wooden box I ran into earlier; a thick coat of dust clings to the tips as I pull away. If this shop just opened, why is it already so dirty? I wipe my hands over my shirt to get the gritty substance off. Shivers rock my whole body. Something about this place is wrong, and I’m not sticking around to figure out what. Tapping my cane along the floor, I’m able to find the exit without knocking into anything else.

Review: The Curse of Gremdon by Ciara Knight

Published Date: December 19th, 2011
Finished Date: December 20th, 2011
Publisher: Crescent Moon Press
Format: eBook for Blog Tour
My Rating: 3.5/5

Blurb from Goodreads:
In a world where marriage is forbidden, sex is only granted to male warriors, and the outer realm is full of murderous creatures, Arianna fights to protect the life of her only living relative, her brother.

Tardon, an elite warrior, is granted anything he desires by the Elders, but finds little joy in the voluptuous women presented to him. Born for the bloodlust found only in battle, complicated emotions emerge when he discovers his equal in the alluring warrior, Arianna.

Charged by the Elders with saving the castle from attack, Tardon and Arianna risk the curse when they traverse the vast outer realm to retrieve serum from the Tree of Life. If successful, the Elders have promised Tardon the right to marry and Arianna the cure for her brother’s death fever. Will their love carry them through or will the discovery of a great deception be their ultimate demise?

My Review

THE CURSE OF GREMDON is a very unique mix of Fantasy and Romance that really captivated me. Usually Fantasy novels will focus less on the romance and more on the wars and conflicts going on in their respective worlds, but TCoG has equal portions of both, and that's what I loved about it. I'm a romance junky, but I'd occasionally also like to pick up a Fantasy novel. There aren't too many of them that have a good romance to back the story up, so I usually steer clear of it. That's why I'd rushed to grab the chance to read TCoG when I read the synopsis and it started going on a tour, and boy, was I glad I did.

**My Summary with Spoilers**

Arianna and her brother are orphans. In order to support him, she has to train and fight to be an Elite Warrior. She's one of the best in her field, but there's just one teensy problem - everytime she's near Tardon, she feels a spark between them. Thing is, women are not allowed to have sex, only those that are given as gifts to the male warriors are permitted the pleasure (sexism is so unbecoming of them! Grrr). Arianna controls her urge well, but it is when her brother falls prey to the deadly glutovirus fever, Tardon comes to her aid by providing her a place to stay in his room in the castle, that with both of them alone in the same room, a fire is ignited within them.

But the secret does not stay hidden from the Elders for very long (only a few seconds, actually. They were ripped apart before they did it), and now the two of them are tasked with an impossible mission, one that killed all others who partook it before - to travel beyond the Outer Circle, into the forests of Gremdon and retrieve the sap from the Tree of Life. Without it, the people will die, but to go beyond the walls of the city is to fall to the curse and turn into one of those hideous creatures, like all the others who went before them.

But as they travel futher out, they discover treachery and betrayals, and an ultimate battle to save their city from the ones who are truly evil...

**End of Summary**

Arianna was a very strong, very resilient woman who would struggle all the way to the end. When an Enforcer (man who are much stronger than warriors but too stupid to be one) caught her in Tardon's bed, he had her neck in his grip, hanging her like nothing but she still continued to fight him. And after the Enforcer dropped her on the ground and she was burning in the inside because of the Elder's magic, she still continued to stay conscious and fight it. She's amazing. Not only that, she is a very sensual woman and she gives voluptuous a whole new meaning, I tell you! Tardon couldn't stop harping on about her overflowing breasts and imagining it burst her vest! Haha, I'm messing with you, but yes, Tardon pointed out that fact a number of times.

As for Tardon, he is the best elite warrior there is in the castle, but he is what the saying calls, "brawn without brains". Not necessarily without brains, just not that much grey matter in that thick skull of his. Lol, but he is a very desirable male. He's strong, he's caring, and um, he's good in bed. 'Nuff said.

The plot wasn't an overly-fantastical one, and I took away that 1.5/5 because it got a little dull sometimes. But there was action (plenty of fightin'), adventure, suspense, and best of all, romance. There wasn't too much emphasis on the last bit. Like I said, it's all about the balance in here. When Arianna and Tardon ventured out into Gremdon, I was so unsure of their fate! But when they saw all those beautiful sceneries, the ones they had before the "curse" descended upon them, it was very heartwarming. Very heartwarming to see them finally acting on their feelings, being happy, and when they finally decided to free the people from the "curse". You'll see the reason for the quotation marks after you've read the book.:)

Overall, I thought this was actually a pretty above average Fantasy novel - the reason for the conflict and conflict itself were a little typical, but I loved the romance and action. It isn't common for a Fantasy book to have that balance, and I read it in two sittings. I'd consider this a very good find! I'd recommend this to any Fantasy fans out there who also wants a little romance.

My Rating

      

Fractured Light Blog Tour: Interview with Rachel, Llona, and Christian + Giveaway

Introducing...

Rachel McClellan!

About Rachel

Rachel McClellan. Author. Mother. Crazy Person.

"My mind only knows how to write. Other people perform simple tasks like cleaning their house or using the bathroom without a distracting thought.
I can't.
Yesterday I meant to vacuum, but ended up scrubbing blood out of my carpet instead. The body's still in the freezer. And when I went to take a shower, a little girl in a red dress and pigtails appeared to me in the vanity mirror. Again. I wish she would go away.

See what I mean? My life is a story and the only way to stay sane is write it all down. I only hope others can find joy in my insanity."    --From Rachel's Website

And her amazing Urban Fantasy YA novel...

Fractured Light!

The Blurb

I’m dying, I thought. This was unexpected and not at all how I envisioned my death. I was supposed to die gardening in a flowerbed as a hundred-year-old woman, not as a seventeen-year-old trapped in a lake beneath inches of ice.

Llona Reese is used to living on the run. After the Vykens killed her parents, she knew they would eventually come for her too. She can’t take any chances. But when she starts to make friends for the first time in her life, she gets careless and lets her guard down. Big mistake.

As an Aura, Llona can manipulate light and harness its energy. But if she wants to survive, Llona will have to defy the Auran Council and learn to use her power as a weapon against the Vyken whose sole desire is to take her light. Now she’s caught in something even bigger than she can understand, with a power she can’t wield, and no one she can trust, except, just maybe, a mysterious stranger.

In this breathtaking and romantic adventure, Rachel McClellan delivers a truly mesmerizing story that will keep you guessing to the very end.

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CYP - me: Hi, Rachel, Llona and Christian! Thanks for coming along for the interview!

Rachel: Thanks for having us.

Llona: Yeah, thanks. I haven’t seen Christian for like three weeks so I’m really glad you’re doing this.


CYP: Why has it been so long?

Llona: I’ve been at Lucent Academy for the summer.

Christian: And I’m back in Oregon training other Guardians.


CYP: Opposite sides of the continent. That must rough. How about I interview your creator first, so you two can lovey-dovey together for a while? :)

Christian: No complaints here.


CYP: Haha. Rachel, tell me about yourself, say, in one sentence.

Rachel: I love adventures!


CYP: Me too! What do you like to do when you're not hard at work writing the very exciting life of Llona and Christian? *snickers*

Rachel: I take my kids to the forest a lot. Here in Maine, there are a ton of trails and the woods are so creepy and full of secrets from the past. I’ve written many scenes while in them.


CYP: That, is too cool! Oh man, I love the nature trails in temperate regions! The ones here in rainforests are DIRTY and muddy as hell. Haha. Has your dream always been to be an author?

Rachel: I always thought it would be cool and I loved to write, but I didn’t think it was possible. Me? Write a novel?


CYP: What were your previous dreams?

Rachel: When I was little I wanted to be a veterinarian. I loved animals. I had all kinds of pets over the years like dogs, cats, mice, birds, rats, guinea pig, snakes, and even a tarantula.


CYP: Tarantula.... Huh, your love and passion must go really deep.. What was the hardest part in your path to becoming an author?

Rachel: Once I was possessed by the spirit of writing, the hardest part was trying to balance other aspects of my life. All I wanted to do was write, but that conflicted with trying to raise a family. It took some time, but now writing and my family are simpatico. Love that word.


CYP: Hahaha, yep, now I've learnt a new word! What age did you start penning down all those crazy ideas of yours?

Rachel: I’ve always had a warped mind. Just ask my sisters or brother. We spent many hours making home movies and plays. As a teenager, I loved English and drama. I even wrote an original monologue that did well at state. In college I really started to write. I remember writing a messed-up, crazy poem for my sister who was in high school. (It was my sister who cheated, not me. J ) The teacher was worried about my sister for a while. I guess Karma got even with her.


CYP: Was FRACTURED LIGHT the first novel you ever wrote? Any that didn't get published?

Rachel: FL was not my first book. It was my third. The first two are called The Devil’s Fool and The Devil’s Angel. They’re about witches and vampires. I really love these two, but the first one really needs some plot love. I’ll return to it one day soon.


CYP: Woah...devils... Sounds wicked awesome enough. :P What is the inspiration behind those two's *nods
at Llona and Christian* creation?

Rachel: You mean the two making out in the corner?

Llona: Hey! We’re not making out. We’re just-

Christian: -getting reacquainted with each other.

Rachel: I first met Llona at a funeral. Her fathers. I remember seeing her with her blond, blond hair and pale skin, and I was like, “Is she a ghost?”

Llona: Um, thanks, Rachel.

Rachel: But she was beautiful. Really, she was.

Christian: I’d agree.

CYP: Um, Christian? I don't think you'd make an impartial judge on this.

Rachel: Llona’s voice was so strong I knew I had to keep telling her story. Christian just appeared. It took me some time to get to know him.


CYP:  Did you base any of your characters on real life people/experiences? Which ones?

Rachel: May reminds me of my younger sister, especially how close she is with Llona. As for the others, they all have a little piece of me in them, including their insecurities.


CYP: Yeah, I have an older sister who's really close to me. I like the unspoken agreements between us - I think it's cool and it's like this secret ESP thing that we've got going on.:D Lol, anyway, are what Llona and Christian are now what you originally thought about them? What changed (if there are any)?

Rachel: Llona turned out to be stronger than I intended, thank goodness. And Christian’s borderline over protective. He’s all about the rules, and it sort of bugs.

Christian: Hey!

Rachel: I’m just saying.

Llona: She’s right you know.


CYP: *Turns to Llona and Christian* Hey guys, so how're you feeling today? About the interview? Did Rachel drag both of you down today against you will? (haha, kidding!) How's Jake?

Llona: We’re good. Jake’s good, too. He’s getting pretty serious with Heidi. And thanks again for doing this. I really needed to see Christian.

CYP: Is something wrong?

Llona: Um, well, I haven’t really had a chance to talk to Christian about it, but there’s some really weird things going on at Lucent.

CYP: Sounds serious. We’ll let you guys talk after. So, um, Llona, you're the star of FL, tell me, what's it about?

Llona: It’s basically about me trying to survive high school with my head still attached.

Christian: That’s not funny. Llona went through a lot, learned a lot.


CYP: Looking back, it has been quite a journey. How do you feel about everything so far?

Llona: Sad mostly. I mean, yeah, so I learned a lot, but big deal. It came with a price.

CYP: But you must have had some good times?

Llona: Oh, I did. Don’t get me wrong. I had some of the best times of my life. It’s just hard to think about them right now. Things are still pretty messed up.


CYP: I hope things get better for you. On a lighter note, what are your thoughts about your life being published, about people reading about you and Christian's stolen moments together? What about you, Christian? What do you think? Don't you think the Auran Council will find out with it traversing the globe?

Llona: It’s embarrassing actually. I mean, I might as well have handed Rachel my journal. She got pretty personal sometimes.

Christian: But you’re story needs to be told, Llona. Especially for other Aura’s. As for the Auran Council finding out about us, let them. I don’t care anymore.

Llona: Wow, Christian. When did you have the stick removed?

Christian: Very funny.

CYP: Hahahha, it IS funny. XD


CYP: When you two aren’t moving around, saving the world and training, what do you enjoy doing? Christian?

Llona: I love to run and hope to participate in a marathon one day. Maybe even one of those Ironman contests. That would be cool.

Christian: I love sports. Playing, watching, whatever.


CYP: Oooh, Ironman!! I love swimming. Haha, just saying. Just for a brief introduction, how do your powers work? What about you, Christian? Any special powers other than speed, strength and agility?

Llona: I wish there was a simple way to explain it. Basically I have Light inside me which means I have the ability to use and control light. I can also transform its calming energy to others.

Christian: And don’t forget our ability to talk telepathically. When you learn it better, of course.


CYP: I've always wanted to be able to do that. Gosh, then everyone will started staring at each other doing quiet communications. That'll be SO weird! Hahaha. Anyway, Llona, why did you decide to stay in Bountiful this time? Why not move around like the other times? Why Bountiful?

Llona: One word: mountains. At least in the beginning anyway. They are so cool and huge. But then I got friends…and Christian. I just couldn’t leave after I had what felt like a normal life. Although maybe I should’ve.


CYP: Hey, yeah! I love mountains and sceneries. Your best friend's May right? Tell me about her. I've always been really curious, what do two you two very special girls talk about normally? I'm assuming it's not shopping. :P

Llona: Definitely not shopping. We both like movies. May’s majorly into celebrities and knows everything about them. We also like to play basketball. May’s decent. She probably could’ve been on the team if she wanted to.


CYP:  What about you, Christian? Do you have a best friend? Good friend? Girlfriend?

Christian: Girlfriend, that’s a good one. Me and Adam are pretty close. More friends than cousins. And I have a bunch of Guardian friends back in Oregon. It was nice to see them again.


CYP: What were your first impressions of each other? Right after that rather suave and heroic save by Christian from your rather painful fall?

Christian: My first impression was actually weeks earlier when the Auran Council sent me. The first time I saw Llona was when she was out running. I was stunned. Really, I was.

Llona: What were you expecting? Buck teeth and warts?

Christian: Maybe just one wart. Ow! Be nice, I’m only kidding. What I mean is, I didn’t expect to see a tough Aura. Llona, can do anything.

CYP: What about you, Llona?

Llona: I fell hard for Christian right away. Looking back, I think it’s because I saw a little of myself in him. We both have lost a parent, and we both have had to lead different lives apart from other people.


CYP: That's harsh. But I'm glad you found each other. Hey, heard you've been working out lately, Llona. Haha, how's the Kung Fu training coming along? Has Christian been a good teacher?

Llona: Christian was the best. I love fighting, actually any kid of physical activity. It’s so power-feeling.


CYP: That's good...I've always wanted a good martial arts teacher.. Haha, anyway, what is the most memorable memory you have? Does not have to be in one that is in FRACTURED LIGHT.

Llona: I’ll answer this one. It was the Halloween dance at the park. Christian’s dad’s company was hosting it, and it turned out to be one of the best nights I’ve ever had. Gratefully, Rachel took this out of the final version. There are some things I want to keep private.


CYP: Haha, ok now we'll be moving on to the rapid fire questions where all three of you have to answer. Fast. Favorite food?
Rachel: Stuffed Chicken Madiera
Llona: Fruity Pebbles
Christian: Medium rare steak

CYP: Favorite movie?
Rachel: Underworld
Llona: Moulin Rouge
Christian: Rambo


CYP: Favorite season?
Rachel: Fall
Llona: Spring
Christian: Spring


CYP: Favorite color?
Rachel: Black
Llona: Black
Christian: Black

CYP: Favorite person in the world?
Rachel: Too many to just choose one. Husband and my children are at the top. And Liane. Valerie.
Llona:  My uncle Jake. We’ve been through a lot together.
Christian: My mom. Someone alive? Llona.


CYP: Ok, ok, any parting words to all those good readers out there?
Rachel: Become your own kind of superhero. The world needs them.
Llona: Don’t be afraid to show your true self.
Christian: Trust your gut.

Haha, thanks again for coming, you three!

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What I had to say about FRACTURED LIGHT:

" I loved, absolutely adored FRACTURED LIGHT. Even though it took some time to immerse myself into the scenes, it was still an attention-grabber and after the initial few pages, I was honestly hooked! It is a magnificent story with very realistic and relatable characters, and a fantastic yet believable plot that was simply filled with action, suspense, thrill, romance, and surprises. " (See full review HERE) 

If you'd like to find out more about Rachel, Llona or Christian, you can visit them at:

Rachel's Website | Cedar Fort Publishing | Blog | Facebook

Giveaway Time!

Rachel's so generously giving away the necklace Christian gave Llona in FRACTURED LIGHT. It is a silver ring on a chain with the inscription "ETTE" engraved on it, which means Endure to the End. It's so beautiful, symbolic, cool, and me want it!!!

Haha, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below and you're good to go! This giveaway is international. Following is optional, but it is highly encouraged!:P

Merry Christmas + Best of 2011

Merry Christmas, good readers!

What a special, magical day. It's been a crazy time this year - I've had my 'O' Level Examinations, started my reading obsession for real, started writing reviews, and started this book blog up. I won't take up much of your time so you can go eat some turkey or chicken or open presents or hug your Christmas tree, so all I want to say is..

Merry Christmas, have a happy holiday, happy new year, and all around good tidings in the coming year!




Now for...

Those that I've read in 2011, may be released in previous years.

Best Paranormal Romance... Lover Eternal by J.R.Ward!

Best Urban Fantasy... Black Night by Christina Henry!

Best Young Adult Literature... Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren!

Best Adult Fiction... Angel's Blood by Nalini Singh!

[Tied] Best Fantasy... Altered Destiny by Shawna Thomas / Eona by Alison Goodman!

Best Historical Romance... The Heretic Queen by Michelle Moran!

Best Erotica... Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James!!

[Triple tied] Best Series... Fifty Shades series by E.L. James / The River of Time series by Lisa Tawn Bergren / Guild Hunter by Nalini Singh!!!

Best Books of the Year...

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I notice I keep revolving around the same few books, but that just goes to show how much they rocked my socks! Haha, anyway, that's all for this post. Good night (it's 2.55am Dec 25th in Singapore now!:D), Merry Christmas, and happy holidays!

Review: Lover Awakened by J.R. Ward

Published Date: September 5th, 2006
Finished Date: December 18th, 2011
Publisher: Signet
Format: Paperback
Pages: 434
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #3
My Rating: 4/5

Blurb from Goodreads:
A former blood slave, the vampire Zsadist still bears the scars from a past filled with suffering and humiliation. Renowned for his unquenchable fury and sinister deeds, he is a savage feared by humans and vampires alike. Anger is his only companion, and terror is his only passion—until he rescues a beautiful aristocrat from the evil Lessening Society.

Bella is instantly entranced by the seething power Zsadist possesses. But even as their desire for one another begins to overtake them both, Zsadist’s thirst for vengeance against Bella’s tormentors drives him to the brink of madness. Now, Bella must help her lover overcome the wounds of his tortured past, and find a future with her…

My Review

LOVER AWAKENED is a very dark, very intense book. Lots of misery and tragedy. Personally I like dark and intense books, dark means that there will be action, and the hero and maybe heroine will know how to kick some real, tough ass, and intense means that I will like the writing style of the author cause the novel can incite deep emotions in me. But this is the first time that I say there's a limit to all these. Not that I didn't enjoy LA, I liked the romance, the action and the Brotherhood plenty, but I couldn't stomach how miserable it made me feel at the end. Lol, yes, it is that intense.

**My Summary with Spoiler**

Zsadist is the odd ball in the Brotherhood who has deep, permanent emotional - and physical - scars from an abusive, horrifying past. Z doesn't like to get close to people, the proximity scares him, and he doesn't drink from a female vamp's vein but from a human's. That would normally not be enough to sustain a male vamp, moreover a warrior, a Brother, but that's how strong Z is, even without proper nourisment. (Imagine feeding from tofu once ever alternate day or something and fighting street thugs. Yeah, I think that's a good analogy.) So Z would never have thought that his life would actually have a hint of romance in it.

Bella is part of the aristocrat in the vampire society, a sheltered female with a protective brother and 2 doggens to wait on her and her family (brother and mother only). She's only ever been in one relationship before, but that guy proved to be a coward and they went their separate ways. Who would've thought she has a thing for dangerous males, and when she sees Z, all she can think is to get close to him, to know him. But what she discovers is a man in need, a man who has been hurt but has never been healed. And she still wants him.

But a terrifying lesser, if you'd remember Mr. O from the previous instalments, has become obsessed with Bella ever since he set eyes on her, cause when he sees her, he sees his deceased wife. Well, he's majorly screwed up upstairs, violent, one-track minded, very smart, and the Omega seems to really like him. A very dangerous combination. And when he gets his hands on Bella...

**End of Summary**

I loved to watch how Z started warming up to Bella. Like Rhage with Mary, and Wrath with Beth, Bella started to change Z for the better. I liked those parts. Haha, esepcially when Bella went into her needing period where the male has to "serve" the woman by having sex with her or the woman goes into intense pain. Hahahah, and after that Z was SPENT!XD And when Z became protective of Bella, it was very heartwarming even if he's methods aren't always conventional.

Anyway, other than Z's parts, I wasn't very taken by Bella. I've mentioned this in my review of the previous book, LOVER ETERNAL, that Bella's a little too bold for me. It's not that apparent in AWAKENED, but well, it's still there, and I thought it bordered on pesky. But that's what got through to Z cause he kept pushing her away, and if she took the hint, their thing together would never have happened, so yeah, I guess it's good for their relationship.

As always, I immersed myself into the world of the Brotherhood, and I loved it. I loved them dark and mysterious, and I read LOVER AWAKENED in one sitting. I wasn't wow-ed by the book, but I'm just somehow addicted to them, the Brotherhood. I loved the way the brothers bantered with each other like carefree boys, and how Butch is totally integrated into the Brotherhood's fold. Butch is so full of bullshit! Hahhaha, his sarcasm and wit is hilarious! He brightens up every scene he's in.

Similar to the previous two books, I don't really agree with Ward's writing style the way she alternated POVs between multiple characters. It serves a purpose, but I don't like the way I'm cut off when something interesting or major is happening with a particular character. Especially when the something happening involves Z and/or Bella.

The reason why I took that one star away from the five was because I really don't see the necessity of that death at the end. IT WAS TOTALLY UNCALLED FOR AND STUPID! &*(^&%^$^%#$%$^&*%(&! I don't want her to die.... That was the too dark and intense part. Z's and Phury's past was indeed very heartbreaking and traumatic, but I was preparing myself for the worst, seeing as how broken Z was. But that death at the end....

Anyway, I thought that until the ending, LOVER AWAKENED was a fantastic read that contains everything a Paranormal Romance fan will want - action, suspense, thrill, romance, gore, and heartbreak. I loved Z and Bella when they're together, especially when Z's not being an idiot thinking he's too filthy for Bella to touch and to be close with. Ok he's not being an idiot, I know it wouldn't have been convincing if he let Bella into his life that easily, but I really like the times when they're, well, intimate physically.

A very recommendable read, just like its prequels.

My Rating

    

A Sexy Sneak Peek at Fifty Shades Freed

....and in my opinion too short. AHHH, E.L. James has posted a short teaser on her up and coming third instalment to her phenomenal series, the Fifty Shades series, Fifty Shades Freed. It's so hot! Just like the rest of her books!! It's all at her website: http://blog.eljamesauthor.com/?cat=6.

The Blurb

When unworldly student Ana Steele first encountered the driven, damaged young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and ultimately repelled by Christian’s singular sexual tastes, Ana demanded a deeper commitment; determined to keep her, Christian agreed.

Now, together, they have more – love, passion, intimacy, and a world of infinite possibilities. But Ana always knew that loving her Fifty Shades would not be easy, and being together poses challenges neither of them ever anticipated. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian’s opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own integrity, identity or independence; Christian must somehow overcome his compulsion to control, and lay to rest the horrors that blighted his past and haunt his present.

Just when it seems that together their love can conquer any obstacle, misfortune, malice and fate combine to make Ana’s worst nightmares come true. Alone and desperate, she must face down the poisoned legacy of Christian’s past.

Seductive, shocking, sad and funny, Fifty Shades Freed is the compelling final volume in the Fifty Shades trilogy.

Look at that handcufff! I can't freakin' wait for its release!!!!:D:D

Blog Tour: Character Interview with Meghan + 2 Giveaways

Introducing... Megan!

Boyfriend from Hell
Book 1 in the Falling Angels series

The Blurb

Fifteen year-old Megan Barnett and her single mom, Suze, have a special relationship—they are friends, close friends, who do almost everything together.

“But come on, guys, she’s my mother… Can I really tell her that while we’re snuggled up on the sofa watching Spider Man Three, I’m secretly undressing James Franco with my eyes? Of course not…”

The special bond takes a turn for the worse when Suze decides to start dating again. She hasn’t had a man in her life since Megan’s father left ten years ago.

Enter two mysterious young men, Megan’s new classmate, sinfully attractive bad boy, Guy Matson, and the dangerously handsome art dealer, Armando. Before long Megan and Suze both wind up in steamy relationships.

But neither of the handsome pair is quite what he seems. In fact, one of them is Satan, with his sights set on a new bride. Megan has precious little time to figure out how to stop him. If she doesn’t, either Megan or Suze are quite literally going to HELL.

And

Earth Angel
Second book in the Falling Angels series

The Blurb

Heaven Can Wait!

Just because Megan Barnett recently defeated Satan, has a fantastic new best friend, and has won the love of deliciously handsome, Guy Matson, doesn’t mean her troubles are over.  Far from it.  For Megan doesn’t realize it, but in her possession is a powerful weapon, a weapon sought after by both angels and demons and everything in between.  They will do ANYTHING to get it.

In E. Van Lowe’s humorous, romantic and thrilling sequel to Boyfriend From Hell, Megan winds up in a gripping life or death battle to save herself, the boy she loves, and all of mankind from unthinkable evil.

Megan Barnett has recently defeated Satan, found a fantastic new best friend, and has won the heart of deliciously handsome, Guy Matson.  But that doesn’t mean her troubles are over.  Far from it.  For Megan doesn’t realize that she is in possession of a powerful paranormal weapon, a weapon sought after by both angels, demons and everything in between.  


In E. Van Lowe’s romantic yet thrilling sequel to Boyfriend From Hell, Megan finds herself in a gripping life or death battle to save the boy she loves, and all of mankind from unthinkable evil.

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Megan enters the room and sits across from me. She smiles nervously.

Hi Megan, thanks for coming to the blog today!

It’s a pleasure being here. I’m a bit nervous. I’ve never done an interview before. Well, I was once interviewed by the school paper, before the state championships as one of the Mathletes, but Tran did most of the talking… okay, he did all of the talking.

Lol! Ok, for starters, tell me a little about yourself, say, in 5 words.

Far from perfect…loyal friend.

One positive, one negative - good choice! Haha. I've read a little about you from your E's novels. Tell me, how do you feel knowing that people around the world are reading about you, your inner thoughts, and about those secret moments you share with Guy?

No one likes people in their heads, especially when they’re thinking selfish thoughts. I have to admit, though, I’ve grown a lot since Boyfriend From Hell, so I don’t mind people in my head as much. However, when it comes to you witnessing my secret moments with Guy, all I can say is Embarrassing!

Haha, yeah! I remember the first few times you saw him. Not a very nice introduction, huh?XD Have you ever, um, consulted Guy about those embarrassing moments before? What were his views? Cute? Clumsy?

Talking about the locker incident from Boyfriend From Hell would be too embarrassing. Still. I’m sure we’d laugh about it, but I’m not ready to bring up the embarrassing stuff yet. Guess I’m not that mature ;-)

Talking about Guy, what was your first impression of him?

I think I said this in Boyfriend From Hell. Cute but arrogant.

Hmm, quite a nice male combination, don't you think? Haha, anyway, what do you like to do in your spare time? Besides being with Guy..

I also love hanging out with my friend Maudrina. And I love trivia. I seriously can’t help myself. I am a bottomless pit of useless information. Like, did you know in Disney World’s It’s A Small World there are over three hundred costumed dolls? I know, who need to know all this useless stuff… Me!

Yeah, I remember the one about your poster friend, Albert Einstein. I still can't believe you gave him a pet name, Al! Lol! Too funny. Anyway, when it was just the two of you, what do you and your mom do normally? Other than shopping for antiques?

We used to do a lot of fun things: movies, art openings, concerts; she took me to a Hannah Montana concert once when I was small and pretended to like it. We enjoyed going to all the outdoor festivals in and around Glendale, like The Chocolate Affair. We used to have crafts night when I was younger, but I am not good with my hands, and after several craft failures Suze eventually let me off the hook.

Hahaha. Even if it were failures, those events you went to with her sounds really fun. I don't really have THAT close a relationship with my own mom, so I don't have all those bonding sessions with her. Tell me, what do you talk to her about?

Our relationship is unusual because we were more than mother and daughter, we really were friends. Back then we talked about everything: school, TV, my friends, juicy gossip. Anything you’d talk with a friend about. Well, almost anything… She’s still my mom. I definitely cannot tell her when I’m undressing James Franco with my eyes—or anyone for that matter. I never thought of what we did as bonding sessions. We were just friends. I miss it.

I'm a little curious.. Why didn't you tell your mom how you felt about her getting a boyfriend at the start? It could've spared you all the drama that ensued?

I know. I could have saved myself a lot of heartache. I should have told her. I wanted to tell her, but I didn’t want to seem selfish. It’s like your best friend wants to date Bobby Booger-Eater. You don’t like Booby Booger-Eater because eating boogers is like gross. But your friend is so happy when she talks about him, and you don’t want to spoil her happiness. So you say nothing. As it turns out, the way I handled it was even more selfish.

Nah, the decisions you made then were based on good intentions, it's just the result wasn't ideal, is all. Before you met Guy, you weren't such a rebellious teen, right? Haha, what gave you the courage to start ditching school and stuff?

Hold up! I never ditched school—not even on Ditch Day. If you read Earth Angel you may remember I left school early, but I didn’t ditch. As for the rest of your question, what can I say, bad boys bring out the rebel in me ;-)

Looking at his influence on you, I wouldn't say it's good, but I can clearly see that you both have such real feelings for each other. What do you two normally do together, anyway?

I know this is going to sound boring and unromantic, but mostly we talk. We can talk for hours and it’ll seem like minutes. We talk about everything: school, college, TV, games, what it’s like being an angel. He’s a great listener. And an excellent kisser.

Nono, talking's cool. I like the calm and just being together's nice. With all the crazy stuff going on, I guess you'd find normalcy a blessing, huh? Haha, there's so much going on in your life now. Looking back, would you have called your life boring?

Considering all the recent drama with Satan, angels, demons and Satanists—yes. It was definitely boring.

What was the most memorable moment in life?

My most memorable moment in life is when we rushed my mother to the hospital. You may remember it in Boyfriend From Hell. I have had a lot of memorable moments in life, but thinking my mother might die takes the prize.

What about most memorable moment with Guy?

The most memorable moment with Guy was when he kissed me when we were in hell. Do you remember that? You can read about it in Earth Angel. Of all our many kisses, I will remember that one for the rest of my life.

Rapid fire questions:

1) Favourite food? Anything chocolate.

2) Favourite movie? Titanic.

3) Favourite song? It keeps changing. Right now it’s Party Rock by LMFAO

4) Favourite season? Spring time. It’s romantic.

5) Favourite person in the world? My Mom, Suze. My favorite angel—Guy, of course.

Haha, ok any parting words to those good readers out there?

Yes. Don’t just read my interview, read all about me in Boyfriend From Hell and Earth Angel, the first two books in the Falling Angels Saga. To learn more about these books visit http://evanlowe.com/.

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Giveaway Time!

E's generously giving away an ecopy of BOYFRIEND FROM HELL and EARTH ANGEL to one lucky winner here on ABS! And the US giveaway for the tour is 2 signed sets of Boyfriend from Hell and Earth Angel to 2 lucky winners! Fill in the Rafflecopter form below to enter to win the ecopies and the fill in THIS FORM (also embedded below Rafflecopter form) to enter to win the signed sets of both books.

Cover Reveal--Chosen Ones by Tiffany Truitt

I've just seen the cover for this one today, and wow! And then I saw the synopsis, and wow!:P

Official Blurb

Expected publication: April 2012 by Entangled Publishing

What if you were mankind’s last chance at survival?

Sixteen-year-old Tess lives in a compound in what was once the Western United States, now decimated after a devastating fourth World War. But long before that, life as we knew it had been irrevocably changed, as women mysteriously lost the ability to bring forth life. Faced with the extinction of the human race, the government began the Council of Creators, meant to search out alternative methods of creating life. The resulting artificial human beings, or Chosen Ones, were extraordinarily beautiful, unbelievably strong, and unabashedly deadly.

Life is bleak, but uncomplicated for Tess as she follows the rigid rules of her dystopian society, until the day she begins work at Templeton, the training facility for newly created Chosen Ones. There, she meets James, a Chosen One whose odd love of music and reading rivals only her own. The attraction between the two is immediate in its intensity—and overwhelming in its danger.

But there is more to the goings-on at Templeton than Tess ever knew, and as the veil is lifted from her eyes, she uncovers a dark underground movement bent not on taking down the Chosen Ones, but the Council itself. Will Tess be able to stand up to those who would oppress her, even if it means giving up the only happiness in her life?

Don't you think it looks awesome? And that synopsis! It's unique and so intriguing! Anyway, you can find out more about Ms Truitt and her book at:

Entangled Publishing | Her Website | Goodreads

Thanks for stopping by!

Review: Lover Eternal by J.R. Ward

Published Date: March 7th, 2006
Finished Date: December 17th, 2011
Publisher: Signet
Format: Paperback
Pages: 441
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #2
My Rating: 5/5!

Blurb from Goodreads:
In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there's a deadly turf war raging between vampires and their slayers. There exists a secret bound of brothers like no other-six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Possessed by a deadly beast Rhage is the most dangerous of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Within the brotherhood, Rhage is the vampire with the strongest appetites. He's the best fighter, the quickest to act on his impulses, and the most voracious lover-for inside him burns ferocious curse cast by the Scribe Virgin. Owned by this dark side, Rhage fears the time when his inner dragon is unleashed, making him a danger to everyone around him.

Mary Luce, a survivor of many hardships is unwittingly thrown into the vampire world and reliant to Rhage's protection. With a life-threatening curse of her own, Mary is not looking for love. She lost her faith in miracles years ago. But when Rhage's intense animal attraction turns into something more emotional, he knows that he must make Mary his alone. And while their enemies close in, Mary fights desperately to gain life eternal with the one she loves...

My Review

It couldn't have been more perfect than this. This...this is utter perfection personified! There wasn't much lesser-Brotherhood action in this one, but the romance between Rhage and Mary...That's just what romance is all about! That's how you write and develop a love story, not like those tragic crap that is Romeo and Juliet. I cried for them, worried for them, but the HEA (happy ever after) was totally worth that temporary cesspit of misery. I'm telling you, that was the perfect ending to a brilliant story.

**Spoiler minefield**

Rhage has been cursed to become a beast, which he has no control over, everytime he's hurt, angry, or too wound-up with energy. The beast doesn't know who's friend and who's foe, it'll just gobble up whoever's in it's path. He's a handsome guy, but he'd do without it to feel normal. He's got to visit those whores at the nearby club to constantly release some tension and energy, and he hates it.

Mary Luce is a psychiatrist for autistic kids, but is now volunteering at the Suicide Prevention Centre to pick up calls and counsel through the phone. She's been diagnosed with cancer - again - and she's working hard to keep herself busy herself from thinking about her detoriating health. But when she meets John, a pre-transition warrior, she and John will be brought to the Brotherhood to explain things to John (Mary to be a translator since John is mute and needs to use ASL). And when she's there, she meets Rhage and sparks fly.

Rhage is temporarily blinded after changing back from being the beast and is still recuperating, but when he stumbles upon Mary and hears her soothing voice, a reaction is triggered within him, and he must find out more about her. But humans are forbidden to be brought into the Brotherhood, and even if she were allowed into the mansion, everytime Rhage is near Mary, the beast also wants to come out to play...

**End of spoiler region**

If you've read my summary, then you'd know that LOVER ETERNAL focuses primarily on the relationship development between Rhage and Mary, the Hollywood potential and average brunnette. Mary's self-esteem is beyond low, so when Rhage takes notice of her, she keeps pushing him away, not wanting to be a charity case. I like how Ward did that, I mean, how she slowly lets Rhage into Mary's heart, and how Mary resists at the start.

Rhage is beyond AWESOME! He is such a heartbreaker, and he's very self-sacrificial. He absolutely charmed me, much more than Wrath or Zsadist or any one of the brothers. And it's not his looks either. The way he treated Mary, the way he fought for her right to remain in the Brotherhood's mansion, the way he protected her... Oh man.. I loved him so much! Oh, and you should see Rhage with a cherry. Hahaha, he totally charmed Mary with it. A cherry! And whenever he's with Mary, I swear, they are the cutest, most romantic, most compatible couple I have ever seen.

Even though I am an action-romance-junky, this book will always be my favourite in the BDB series. I think the romance was so good that it trumped the lack of action. I'd gladly not have the action to read more on Rhage and Mary. I wish there was a novella for him and Mary, not Bella and Zsadist..:( There were still fight scenes, and they didn't have sex until way past the middle of the book, but you wouldn't even take notice of it. I loved how Rhage courted Mary and earned her trust. Mary's so smitten she went a little cuckoo when she heard that Rhage has been with another woman (whore) that night that she actually took initiative to, y'know.. And she's really the sweet and soft woman.

Needless to say, I love Ward's writing style and the way she plans a book. To be able to handle so many POVs is not an easy feat to organise, even though I don't like multiple POVs cause they slow down the pace. It serves a purpose, yes I know, but it doesn't mean I have to like it, and I'm only interested in the protagonists. I'm sure I'm not the minority in this.

I loved the humor and sarcasm when the brothers and Butch banter. They. Are. HILARIOUS! And in this book, you can add in Mary's innocence. Rhage teases her for it! But she's very lovable when she's not in her element. You should see this part, they are absolutely so endearing when they're together:

Keeping his back to her, he stood up and stripped. With some finessing, he managed to get himself under the covers without flashing her a glimpse of what the front of him was up to. That monstrous arousal was nothing she needed to know about.

He faced away from her, lying on his side.

"Can I touch it?" she asked.

His erection jerked, as if volunteering to be the "it". "Touch what?"

"The tattoo. I'd like to… touch it."

God, she was so close to him, and that voice of hers—that sweet, beautiful voice—was magic. But the hum in his body made him feel like he had a paint mixer in his belly.

When he stayed quiet, she murmured, "Never mind. I don't—"

"No. It's just…" Shit. He hated the distance in her tone. "Mary, it's okay. Do whatever you like."

If you haven't read DARK LOVER or you've skipped LOVER ETERNAL, I recommend that whatever you do, read Book 2. You may miss out certain events if you've skipped Book 1 (DARK LOVER), but I assure you, you'd want to miss the facts to read this wonderful piece of literature. It's... You won't regret it. 'Nuff said.

Random Musings:

You know how we get small glimpses of Bella? I've read the synopsis for LOVER AWAKENED, and I know that Bella's gonna be The One for Zsadist. But she's a little too bold for my liking. She's practically throwing herself at the guy. Aaaand I hate it when a girl keeps staring at a guy. I don't know why, but I think it's, well, not right. A little immoral, rude, and not right. I know that it's the only way to get close to Z, but it's just...a little too bold for my liking.

My Rating

 

Ok, guess I'm off to reread the book.B)

Blog Tour: Scorpio Rising Excerpt + Giveaway

Announcing the Scorpio Rising Social Media Whirlwind Tour!

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the Scorpio Rising eBook edition has dropped to just 99 cents this week.

What’s more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes, including 2 Kindle Fires, Amazon gift cards up to $100 in amount, 5 autographed copies of the book, and 5 autographed copies of its recently released sequel, The Sting of The Scorpio. Be sure to enter before the end of the day on Friday, December 23rd, so you don’t miss out.

 

 

To Win the Prizes:

1. Purchase your copy of Scorpio Rising for just 99 cents on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
2. Fill-out the form on Novel Publicity to enter for the prizes
3. Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book or a $50 gift card!
4. BONUS: If you leave a comment on this blog post, you have another chance at $100!

...And I can win too!

Over 100 bloggers are participating in this gigantic event, and there are plenty of prizes for us too. The blogger who receives the most votes in the traffic-breaker poll will win a $100 gift card as well. So when you visit Novel Publicity’s site to fill-out the contest entry form, don’t forget to say that I referred you, so I can get a point in the poll.

The Featured Events include:

Monday, Blogaganza on Novel Publicity! We’re kicking-off on the Novel Publicity Free Advice blog. We’ll ask the writer 5 fun and random questions to get everyone talking. Leave a comment or question in response to the post, and you may win an autographed copy of Scorpio Rising or its sequel, The Sting of The Scorpio. Don’t forget to enter for the other contest prizes while you’re over there!

Tuesday, Twitter sharing contest! A tweet is tiny, only 140 characters. But on Tuesday, it could win you $50. Send the following tweet across the twittersphere, and you just may win a $50 Amazon gift card. Autographed copies of Scorpio Rising and its sequel, The Sting of The Scorpio, are also up for grabs. The winner will be announced Wednesday morning. Here’s the tweet: Looking for a read that's full of love, drama, and betrayal? Scorpio Rising has been reduced to 99 cents! http://ow.ly/7zA2s #whirlwind

Wednesday, Google+ sharing contest! Yup, there’s yet another awesome opportunity to win a $50 Amazon gift card, and this time it just takes a single click! Visit Google+ and share Emlyn Chand’s most recent post (you’ll see the Scorpio Rising book cover included with it). On Thursday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. Autographed copies of Scorpio Rising and its sequel, The Sting of The Scorpio, are also up for grabs. Three chances to win! How about that?

Thursday, Facebook sharing contest! Stop by Novel Publicity’s Facebook page and share their latest post (you’ll see the Scorpio Rising book cover included with it). It’s ridiculously easy to win! On Friday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. Autographed copies of Scorpio Rising and its sequel, The Sting of The Scorpio, are also up for grabs.

Friday, special contest on the author’s site! Win a Kindle Fire! Two are up for grabs! Visit Monique’s website to leave a comment on any of her posts and sign-up for her author newsletter. One person will win for each method, so be sure to do both.

Remember, it’s all about the books!

About Scorpio Rising: Set in New York and Paris amid the glamorous and competitive worlds of art and real estate, Scorpio Rising takes the reader from the late 1940s to the 1960s through the tumultuous lives of its heroes. Alex Ivanov is the son of a Russian immigrant and part-time prostitute. He yearns to escape his sordid life and achieve fame and fortune. His dreams of becoming a world-class builder are met with countless obstacles, yet he perseveres in the hope of someday receiving the recognition he craves. Half a world away, Brigitte Dartois is an abused teenager who runs into the arms of a benefactor with an agenda all his own. When she finds out that her boss has an ulterior motive, she flees again, determined to earn her living through her art. This career brings her fame, but also the unwanted attention of her early abuser. Monique Domovitch’s debut novel, Scorpio Rising, is a compelling tale filled with finely etched characters and a superb understanding of the power of ambition. Scorpio Rising promises to resonate with all who once had a dream. Get it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

About The Sting of The Scorpio: In Scorpio Rising, Monique Domovitch presented a compelling tale filled with colorful characters and the manipulation of power, ambition, and greed. Now she gives us its spellbinding sequel, The Sting of the Scorpio, where Alexander Ivanov returns to New York with his new bride, Brigitte. The real estate industry is ripe with opportunity. Blessed with irresistible charm, ambition, and the single-minded obsession to succeed, Alex plots and manipulates his way to almost mystical success. Everything he touches turns to gold, but it’s never enough. When a hostile takeover bid leaves him struggling to save his beloved company, he suspects those closest to him of plotting his downfall. Brigitte, the beautiful redhead who abandoned her country and her career to become his wife, feels alone. In return, Alex has betrayed her time and again, each indiscretion cutting deeper into her soul. Brigitte’s son, David yearns to be an artist, but Alex’s plans leave no room for such frivolous goals. He grooms a reluctant David to become the heir apparent until a devastating tragedy attracts the attention of another young man. The Sting of the Scorpio is a rich tale of a man at the mercy of his own greed and a woman bound by her need for love. Get it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

About the Author: Monique Domovitch began writing at the age of fifty-five. Two years later, she has two self-published novels—her Scorpio Series—and a three-book deal with Penguin, for books she has written under the name of Carol Ann Martin. Never seen without her laptop, Monique and her husband travel the world and divide the rest of their time between their homes in British Columbia and California. Monique loves to hear from readers! Visit her on her website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.

Now please enjoy this beautiful excerpt from Scorpio Rising...

Half way around the world, Brigitte Dartois also liked drawing. Rather than buildings, her pictures were of her family—Papa, Maman, and herself under a bright sun. Sometimes she drew trees and flowers. Her subjects were the same as any other child’s her age, but her pictures were different. They were strong and arresting.

“Viens voir, Colette,” her father called her mother. He held up a bright drawing of a garden. “Regarde, don’t tell me our daughter is not talented.”

Colette Dartois looked, but to her, those colorful scribbles were no better than those of any other nine-year-old.

She shrugged. “You shouldn’t compliment her too much. It will go to her head. Brigitte, put that away and go do your homework.”

Often, Colette would look at her husband and her daughter with vague discomfort. He paid so much attention to Brigitte and so little to her. Every day when Louis Dartois burst through the door after work, it was Brigitte to whom he opened his arms after a perfunctory kiss to Colette. Gradually, Colette’s love for her husband and daughter festered into resentment and jealousy.

Then, when Brigitte was thirteen, her father died suddenly. Three months later, her mother married Lucien. “Consider yourself lucky. Not many men are willing to be a papa to a grown girl like you. You better be nice to him.”

Brigitte was filled with anger, betrayed by her mother's indifference. One night, when Brigitte was alone in the house with her stepfather, she awakened to a pair of rough hands moving over her body. “This will be our little secret,” Lucien told her when she opened her eyes. “If you even think of telling anyone, I'll kill you,” he said. Then he raped her.

Her mother worked the evening shift as a barmaid at a club down the street, and for the next three years, it became a nightly ritual for Lucien to stop in for une petite caresse, as he called it. Every night he gave her the same warning. “You tell anyone and you're dead.” Sometimes he went into gruesome details of what he would do to her if she ever told. Brigitte believed him. So, she kept her mouth shut.

Once, she was the top student in her class. Her grades began to slide until she was close to failing. She slept at her friends' flats whenever she could. At home, she was silent and withdrawn. Her mother barely noticed.

“What's the matter with you?” Colette asked. “Get your act together. You keep it up and you'll be kicked out of school.”

One night while Lucien was in her bed and forcing himself on Brigitte, the bedroom door flew open. Her mother stood in the entrance, an expression of horror on her face. Lucien jumped up and fumbled with his trousers. “It's the girl's fault,” he said, his voice coming in halting breaths. “How's a man supposed to resist? She's always coming on to me. As soon as you leave in the evening, she takes off her camisole and lets me see her body. Colette, you've got to stop her, she's trying to break us up!”

“Get out!” Colette shouted, and her voice was like ice. The girl sobbed in relief. At last, her ordeal was over. She would never have to see her stepfather again. “You're no daughter of mine. Get out you putain.”

In shock, Brigitte realized her mother was speaking to her. She had lost! Lucien had won! She dressed as quickly as she could, threw a few of her things into a pillowcase, and slipped silently down the hall to the closet where her mother kept her purse. Sorry, but I'll need this more than you will. She took all the cash she found. Then she left.

Two days later, a sales-help-wanted sign in a store window caught her eye.

*I didn't realise the tour starts on Monday 12/19, not last week's Monday so I posted it early. So well, I'm reposting it. Sorry!*