Sizzling Hot – Edge of Disaster by A M Hargrove – With Freebies

Posted on October 2, 2013 by fundinmental

A M Hargrove is having a tour for her newest release, Tragically Flawed. I have read several of her books and will be treating you to a sampling of her work, starting with Edge of Disaster and culminating in my tour post for Tragically Flawed on October 8, 2013.

So, without further ado, let’s talk about Edge of Disaster.

First off, Edge of Disaster by A M Hargrove is Free.

So is Beginnings, the Prequel Novella for the Guardians of Vesturon and Survival, Book I of the Guardians of Vesturon. So grab your copies and dive into the wonderful world of A M Hargrove.

I don’t know for how long, so check for the “0”.

If you think the cover is hot, wait until you meet Pearce Middleton.

It had been three years since Peter died. I had no respect or love for myself. I had been partying so hard, I woke up in bed between two guys I had never seen before. If I kept this up, I would probably wind up dead myself.

I worked at Camellias as a waitress. I was assigned to work a big party that was going on. I went around taking drink orders and paused when I heard, Grey goose extra dirty martini with extra olives. My favorite drink.

I looked into the most gorgeous, sexy gray eyes I’d ever seen and stopped dead in my tracks. I shook it off and went about my work. As smokey eyes left, he tipped me two hundred dollar bills and gave me his business card, saying call him. I looked at the card – H. Pearce Middleton. Could he be one of those Middletons?

I left work and started walking home. All of a sudden, an arm went around my neck and cut off my air supply. I fought back as hard as I could, but he slugged me and I lost consciousness.

I was picked up on the side of the road and taken to the Medical University. Pearce was called in, but when he saw it was me, he arranged for someone else to treat my injuries. He stayed by my side, holding my hand the whole time.

Pearce pursued me, but I felt I didn’t deserve him. I tried to avoid him, but if I didn’t answer my phone, he would text me, telling me, “You can run but you can’t hide, lol!”

Could I allow myself to be happy? Could I ever find the strength to forgive myself and allow myself to be loved? Would I live the rest of my life thinking I was unworthy, ruined and unclean? I felt I was undeserving of the love being offered to me. I was on the Edge of Disaster. Could he save me?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Review of Edge of Disaster by A M Hargrove

Romance is not a genre of book that I generally pick up, but A. M. Hargrove knows how to create a story of love, lust and humor. The plot involves revenge, guilt, love and friendship. Read along as Alexia rebuilds her life and learns to forgive herself.

Be sure and read her bio and you will get a glimpse of her personality and her sense of humor. I smile every time I read it.

I liked the reference to Vampires. She was the opposite, when it got dark, she got scared and ran home.

I love to watch Nascar, so when she talked about the Charlotte Motor speedway, the number 88 and Junior it caught my attention. Anyone that knows Nascar will recognize that name, even though Jeff Gordon, 24, is my personal favorite. ^_^

No matter how many times I watch this video, I cannot help but bust out laughing!!!!

A M had me laughing out loud when she described Alexia in the hospital and having to go to the bathroom. I could picture the scene and Alexia’s facial expression in my mind. Of course, I am not going to tell you what happened. You will have to read it for yourself.

Alexia: It wasn’t that she had low self-esteem, she had no self-esteem, no self respect. She was reckless and beautiful. Pearce wasn’t the only one who wanted her.

Pearce described her as a scared bunny. He was persistent, gentle and kind. He had gorgeous, sexy gray eyes, was HOT and rich. And in love with Alexia.

“Okay………. Pearce Middlton. You know my life was on the Edge of Disaster before you walked in………………”

I won some of A. M. Hargrove’s books in a giveaway and she added this to the box, as a little something extra. And, on top of that, she signed them. I love adding all books to my collection, but signed ones hold a special place. Thank you A. M.

3 STARS – Would Recommend To Others

I have read Survival, Book 1 of The Guardians of Vesturon and I am in love already. I realized there was a Prequel, so it’s back to the Beginnings. Keep in touch for my upcoming reviews of more novels from A M Hargrove.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A.M. Hargrove One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn’t do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase. Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodgeball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head. Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what lap top out the window. She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone and hit #4 on her speed dial.

“Hello.”
“Boss, is that you?”
“Why yes, A. M., who else would be answering my phone?”
“Er… right. Well, I’m calling to let you know you can pick up my luxury Ford Focus at Starbucks near the interstate.”
“Why ever would I want to do that?”
“Because I quit you idiot!”

A.M. hit the end button and speed dialed her husband.

“Hi hubs, can you pick me up at Starbucks?”
“Sure… Having some car trouble?”
“Not at all. I don’t have a car to have trouble with because I just quit my job.”
“WHAT?!”
“It’s time for a new career and I am going to be a very famous novelist.”

So began A. M. Hargrove’s career as a young adult paranormal romance author of self-published ebooks. Her series, The Guardians of Vesturon, centers around a family of six siblings and is a mix of humor, mystery, suspense and of course, love. Survival is her first book in the series and her second, Resurrection will be released in January.
If you’re wondering, it didn’t happen EXACTLY that way, but….

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To get your copy of A M Hargroves books from Amazon, simply click on the cover below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Monday Mini – Here Fishy Fishy – Meg by Steve Alten

Posted on September 30, 2013 by fundinmental

You think Jaws is bad? Check out Meg by Steve Alten.

SYNOPSIS

Commander Jonas Taylor is tasked with piloting the US Navy’s most advanced submersible, the DSV Sea Cliff, to the bottom of Challenger Deep — 36,000 feet below the surface — into what is very much an undiscovered country. What he finds there — a remnant population of luminous, prehistoric Megalodons — will change the course of the rest of his life.

In this prequel to his New York Times Bestseller, Meg: A Novel of Deep Terror, Alten sets the stage for the popular suspense series to follow. Fans of Meg will find it a must for offering insight into key characters’ backstories, but the novella-length work also stands alone as a bite-sized tale of deep-sea suspense.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some laughs and giggles – some fear and terror.

“Okey dokey. That’s all the proof I’ll be needing.”

I love Steve Alten’s books and the Meg Series is my favorite. I eagerly anticipate the release of another Meg novel – Meg: Night Stalkers. Just looking at the covers makes me want to grab them and read the series for the fourth or fifth time, which I start again when the next book comes out. I never get tired of reading them. I would love to see them made into movies, but the the cost is probably prohibitive.

Anyone who has read any of the Meg books knows that a person’s arrogance will bring the wrath of Meg down on them. Greed raises its ugly head, taking on the world’s greatest predator. So beware when you enter the water. Do I have your attention?

I have always had a passion for any body of water, be it pool, lake, sea or ocean. I marvel at the great unknown. I used to watch Jacques Cousteau, eager to see what new discovery he would make.

“God will judge you when He’s ready; use the time you have left to give HIM as many positives – your resume – as you can.”

5 STARS (not nearly enough) – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

His upcoming novel – The Omega Project will blow your mind.

Check out Steven Alten’s Website and Adopt An Author

To grab any of the Meg books by Steve Alten, or to check out other fantastic books by this author, simply click on the cover below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaway Tour of Arctic Fire by Paul Byer

Posted on September 27, 2013 by fundinmental

Arctic Fire by Paul Byer

Publisher: Fortress Publications (July 1, 2011)

Category: Thriller, Action Adventure, & Literary Fiction
Tour Date: September, 2013
ISBN: 978-0615504070
Available in: Print & eBook, 412Pages

SYNOPSIS

Wealthy entrepreneur Nigel Cain has devised an efficient new way to bring the earth’s most precious resource to the masses – clean water – by transporting massive man-made icebergs from the frigid arctic and delivering them literally to the doorsteps of millions.

Gabriel Pike works at a small engineering firm that has been awarded the task of giving the final safety approval to pilot the first gigantic block of ice into New York harbor.

A consummate showman, Cain has built a fabulous 5-Star hotel and casino high atop the iceberg so his celebrity guests and media elite can cover this spectacle from beginning to end. Pike is whisked away from his work-a-day world and dropped into the lap of luxury where he’s expected to simply rubber-stamp his inspection.

A brutal winter storms ravages the iceberg and exposes structural inconsistencies and hidden agendas that fill Pike with serious doubts about the true intentions of the project. But a grisly double homicide on the ice puts the inspections on the back burner and sends Pike’s life spiraling out of control when he’s accused of being the jealous murderer in a lover’s triangle.

But Pike soon discovers that there is far more at stake than just his life. He uncovers a conspiracy more heinous than anything he could have imagined – a plot that will level a city, change the political face of America, and whose shockwaves will be felt around the world. Fate rests in his hands – if he can survive long enough to take action…

~~~~~~~~~~~~

PRAISE FOR ARCTIC FIRE BY PAUL BYER

“A madman’s insatiable quest for power could level a major American city and kill thousands, ushering in a New World Order. Arctic Fire is a thrill-ride that will leave you breathless.” – Jeremy Robinson, bestselling author of INSTINCT and THRESHOLD

“Audacious and ambitious, Arctic Fire burns with action, and chills with the possibilities of what the future may hold. A thriller not to be missed!” – Sean Ellis, author of INTO the BLACK

“A new twist on a classic battlefield ploy finds an iceberg controlled by a megalomaniac on a collision course with NYC. A provocative blend of fact and fiction that explores issues surrounding a critical natural resource, fresh water, Arctic Fire is bound to leave readers thirsty for more.”-Rick Chesler, author of kiDNApped and WIRED KINGDOM

“We’re running low on fresh water. What do we do? Let’s move an iceberg! I love the premise!! From the opening pages until the thrilling end, Arctic Fire is a heart-pounding adventure filled with risks, action and suspense. With engaging characters and a compelling plot, you will be hard pressed to put this novel down. Just when you think you know what is going to happen, with who and what, the author delivers another surprising twist that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The character are concealing and manipulative, yet believable. The rush of adrenaline is well-rehearsed with each operation, leaving the reader frantically turning to the next page, desperate to find out what is going to happen next. This is the first work I have read of Paul Byers, but he reminds me a lot of Clive Cussler with a twist of Brian Freeman – which is an excellent pairing! Arctic Fire is a novel that showcases his effortless feel for narrative as well as his flawless instincts for suspense. I can’t wait to see what Byers has in store for us next. I definitely won’t want to miss it!”-Mindy Hines, Minding Spot Website

“When I was first asked to review Arctic Fire I laughed out loud. I’ve always wondered why someone didn’t just do this exact same thing to help the countries that go through droughts so I was really looking forward to reading this one and I wasn’t disappointed. Arctic Fire is a fast paced read that I finished in just one day. I fell in love with Gabriel Pike from the first chapter and was dying to know just what sinister plot Cain had in mind. I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves suspense thrillers.” – Monie, Reading With Monie Website

“An awesome mystery/thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I really liked all the characters in this book and the mystery of a homicide. Wonderfully written! If you like a mystery with lots of thrills, you will love this book.”- Sherrie Plummer, Sherrie’s Books Website

~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY REVIEW OF ARCTIC FIRE BY PAUL BYER

Pike is a pilot – he flies a Yankee Clipper jet which is 60 years old and an F 86 Korean War era Sabre jet. He is an Engineer at the Talbot Engineering firm and is a conspiracy buff. He has a do what I have to do, regardless of the consequences attitude.

Cain built a five star hotel casino on top of an iceberg. His plan was to bring it into the New York Harbor and turn it into drinkable water.

But there is so much more to the story than that. He has an ulterior motive.

Pike was chosen as the Engineer to make sure nothing untoward happened. A series of events causes a problem.

Would Pike’s worst imaginings come true?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The author sent me a signed first edition paperback for the tour. I was excited to receive it because I love the cover and conspiracy based books. Add a touch of “history” and I’m hooked.

Paul Byer did not disappoint. This is an action packed adventure, with twists and turns, keeping me turning the pages in anticipation of what would happen next.

The humor sprinkled throughout Artic Fire kept me chuckling. When Paul writes about his character being “Pike…Gabriel Pike.” I laughed out loud.

The book starts out slow, laying a foundation for what is to come. There is a huge BUT – the book has stayed with me long after I finished reading it.

The character development hit the mark. They felt so real to me.

I fell in love with Pike within the first eighty pages.

Paul Byer writes about the Senator being an ignorant, rude asshole and I agree. I sincerely hope he gets his. It makes me think of current political events.

Their have been water wars, pretty much forever. Reading Artic Fire made me think of how much water I use. In this day and age, I find most of us have a higher sense of our impact on Earth.

I have watched The Ice Hunter TV show, where the guys go out to an iceberg and shoot off pieces with a rifle. The Ice Hunters drag it back and sell it for bottled water and vodka.

So how far fetched would it be to haul a complete iceberg?

Check out Weather / Zap2it to get the lowdown.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cause and effect – one simple thing can change your life.

Chaos Theory and the Butterfly Effect

I could rant about my thoughts the book caused to rumble through my brain, but I will leave it to you to read Arctic Fire by Paul Byer and find out for yourself.

4 STARS – Would Recommend To Others.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT PAUL BYERS

Paul grew up in Oregon on the shores of the mighty and mysterious Columbia River, and spent endless hours daydreaming on the beach in front of his house, making up stories about the ships from exotic ports all over the world that steamed up the river – what secret cargo might they be carrying; did they harbor spies who were on dark and exciting missions?

Later in adult life, he moved to another mysterious and provocative city – Las Vegas, just outside the famous Nellis Air Force base. After work he would sit on his porch and watch the fighters take off and land, igniting his imagination with visions of secret missions and rich speculation about what could possibly be hidden at Area 51.

After moving back to his native Pacific Northwest, Paul worked for the Navy and took every opportunity he could to speak with veterans from WWII to the Gulf War, listening to them swap stories and relate the experiences of a lifetime.

So it is this combination of a passionate love of history, a vivid “what if” imagination, and a philosophy of life that boils down to the belief that – there are few things in life that a bigger hammer won’t fix – that led Paul to become a writer of exciting, fact-based action-thrillers. His greatest joy is leaving his readers wondering where the facts end and the fiction begins.

Website / Facebook / Goodreads

~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos Paul Byers is offering for the Giveaway 1 (one) ebook of Arctic Fire to 1 (one) lucky commenter. International. Easy entry as always, just leave your email address and answer the question:

What do you do to conserve and recycle?

Giveaway ends October 16, 2013

WINNERS!! The winners of the Arctic Fire giveaway are Janna and Laura.

Congratulations and happy reading. I hope you enjoy Arctic Fire as much as I did!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To grab your copy of Arctic Fire by Paul Byer, or one of his other books, click on the cover below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ARCTIC FIRE TOUR SCHEDULE

So Many Precious Books Sept 2 Review & Giveaway
Book Lover’s Library Sept 3 Review

Book Lover’s Library Sept 4 Interview & Giveaway

She Treads Softly Sept 4 Review

Books, Books, & More Books Sept 5 Review

Books, Books, & More Books Sept 6 Interview & Giveaway
Cheryl’s Book Nook Sept 9 Review

Butterfly-o-Meter Books Sept 10 Review

Butterfly-o-Meter Books Sept 11 Guest Post

My Shelf Confessions Sept 12 Review

My Shelf Confessions Sept 13 Interview & Giveaway

Room Without Books is Empty Sept 16 Review

Green Mountain People Sept 18 Review

Thoughts in Progress Sept 18 Guest Post & Giveaway

Romance & Inspiration Sept 19 Review

Bloggin Bout Books Sept 20 Review

The News In Books Sept 23 Review

The News In Books Sept 24 Guest Post

Sweeps4Bloggers Sept 24 Review & Giveaway

Tales of a Book Addict Sept 25 Review

Joy Story Sept 26 Review

fundinmental Sept 27 Review & Giveaway

Guest Post and Review – Shooting Stars, A Surah Stormsong Novel by H D Gordon

Posted on September 26, 2013 by fundinmental

Shooting Stars by H D Gordon is another hit. I am a huge fan of hers and she never disappoints me. Falling Star, Book II of Surah Stormsong has just been released and I am looking forward to reading more about Surah and H D’s cast of characters.

Be sure read the Guest Post to see what H D has in store for you in the upcoming months.

“There’s a storm comin.’” Charlie had no idea how bad it would get.

Princess Surah Stormsong had been ordered to take the place of her murdered brother by her father, the King. She was to be the new Keeper. She had no intention of doing so.

She found out the Black Stone was missing and Merin Nightborn, a highborn witch, was dead.

That sealed her fate.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

H D Gordon can spin a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I had no doubt that Shooting Stars would be no exception. Her writing style is easy to read and captures you early on. The action starts from the first chapter and is non-stop. Her characters come alive on the pages and leave you rooting for them OR wishing they get what they deserve.

I loved the Alexa Montgomery Series and thought would I love this too. H D Gordon’s ability to take me into her fantasies allow me travel to worlds I would never have known otherwise.

I met Surah Stormsong in Redemption and I am excited to get to know her. What is her story? Shooting Stars is a story of fantasy and the paranormal. Good vs Evil. White Magic vs Black Magic.

The POV goes back and forth. I liked it. It allowed me to see it from that characters perspective and to walk in their shoes.

When I think of a Royal’s life, I immediately think of Princess Diana. Her life was out there for all to see. Just imagine how hard it was for her to hide her emotions and do the things expected of someone in her position. Royalty have a role to play and an act to perform, regardless of their feelings and wants. Such is the case with Surah Stormsong.

Surah was strong minded and would do what she felt had to be done, regardless of the consequences. She had done it before and met Alexa. Sometimes circumstances can force us to act and give us responsibilities we don’t want. Life is not fair, so get over it.

yum yum yum Pictures, Images and Photos

“Maybe I should tell Samson to bite you. He likes dark meat, you know.”

When you read the book, you will know why I chose this photo. Samson and Surah have a great sense of humor.

Surah Stormsong – She had a Great Tiger, Samson, as a pet. They talked to each other. I loved the banter between her and the tiger. No lying between them. She had a gift and could tell when people lied. She could teleport. She was humble and tired of the Princess thing. She never thought herself above the commoners. She never even paid attention to calling them commoners. Was she really all that unprejudiced? She empathized with people and they loved her for it.

Charlie Redwing- He loved to paint. He was a common sorcerer and bartender. He secretly held a piece of the White Stone. He had courage. He was Black Heart’s younger brother but they had no contact.

Charlie and Princess Surah had met as children only once. She had given him something she should not have and she remembered him well. Something had passed between them, even as children. When she meets him again, she remembers their first meeting. She had never forgotten him. He had never forgotten her. Do you have someone you remember from long ago? Have you ever wondered what could have been?

Charlie and Surah had something between them, but Theo was determined to marry her. He was the Head Hunter and Surah, as Keeper, had to work with him. He had lusted after her for a long time. Just a look from him caused her skin to crawl.

Black Heart, Michael, was Charlie’s brother and the opposite of him. Revenge is a strong, driving emotion. It can take over your life and it drove Michael. Some people twist their views to justify their actions.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

QUOTES

“You still throw like a princess.”

“But I am scared, Sam I am.” Love it. Made me think of Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.

“People plotted and deceived, cheated and covered it all with a smiling mask. People were far more dangerous than the Beasts. They were the real kings of the jungle.”

“Love is a chariot with a skeleton key to the chains which hate can wrap around you. To love is to be free.”

“You might as well shoot at the stars. Cause the thing you aim to hit is just too far…may as was well be shooting at the stars.”

5 STARS – Would Highly Recommend To Others

I received this book from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review. There is no doubt in my mind that I will love to read and review anything H D Gordon writes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

H D Gordon Talks About Her Characters and her Work In Progress

Hi Heather. I am happy to have you making an appearance on my blog today.

First, I would like to thank Sherry for allowing me to come here today! Sherry has been a wonderful supporter to me from the beginning, and I love her oceans for all that she does.

I’m going to talk a little about a few things; characters, upcoming works, the direction I’m heading in, to name a few. My most recent release was the second book in The Surah Stormsong Novels, Falling Stars, and boiled down, it is a fantasy/romance tale about star-crossed lovers and magic. Surah Stormsong and Charlie Redmine are the leading characters of this tale, two people born worlds apart that find themselves forced together through bad circumstances, and falling in love despite the fates being aligned against them.

If you know me, you know I am a fan of strong characters with very real weaknesses, and Surah and Charlie are no exception here. In Shooting Stars you are introduced to the cast, and the shit starts to pile up, leaving them in a very tough situation. In book two, Falling Stars, you really start to get to know Surah and Charlie; their histories, fears and weaknesses. All the while you are watching while their love blossoms into something worth crossing oceans and climbing mountains for. The only real questions are if they can swim hard enough and climb high enough to overcome all that is thrown their way.

I’ve always been a fan of classic star-crossed lover stories, loved everything from Romeo and Juliet to Tristen and Isolde, so when Surah showed up in the last couple Alexa Montgomery books, I knew just what to do with her. My hopes are that after all is said and done with Surah and Charlie, my readers will have grown to love them the same way they love Alexa, Nelly and Kayden.

Now, if you’ve been a constant reader of mine, you know that I do not just write paranormal/fantasy. The fact is, I love all types of literature, and hope to someday have tackled every genre, so that I can fully explore my abilities. With that said, what’s coming next from me will be a mix of things that a reader is sure to find something in that suits their desires.

I’m in the middle of writing my first horror book, which I do not intend to self-publish, but will hopefully be available to you in a timely period. After that I will begin work on the sequel to my paranormal thriller, Joe, which is one of my most anticipated works to date, and following that I will be finishing the last book in The Surah Stormsong Novels, Crossing Stars. So yeah, kicking some ass and taking some names. Or at least, trying to.

In between these works, I am strengthening my short-story writing, and have just finished (in my opinion) my first really successful short story. I’m submitting it to a pretty big contest soon, and my hopes are as high as the sky. It’s some real literary-type shit, so wish me luck. J Also, I’ve written a song inspired by The Surah Novels, and if you follow me on Facebook and Twitter, I’m sure you’ll get to hear it soon.

To sum it up, let me just say that I know most of my readers would like me to continue to just write paranormal/fantasy, but if you trust me, if you allow me, over the years I plan to take you on some wonderful journeys, and perhaps open doors that have never been known to have existed. Come dance with me, dear readers. I promise not to bump your elbows or step on your toes…too much.

WOW! You are a very busy woman. I’ll be at the party with my dancing shoes on and I know my travels with you will be memorable. Congratulations on all the goodness!

Thanks so much for visiting, Heather, and talking to all my readers and followers.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

H. D. Gordon is the author of The Alexa Montgomery Saga. Blood Warrior, the first book of the Alexa series was her debut novel and has held a spot in the top 100 fantasy bestsellers for over a month. Half Black Soul is the second book in this series and H. D. plans to complete Alexa’s tales by the end of 2012. In June of 2012, Joe, a fantasy novel about a young clairvoyant, was released as well. H. D. is a lifelong reader and writer, a true lover of words. When she is not reading or writing she is raising her two daughters, playing a little guitar, and spending time with her family. She is twenty three years old and lives in the northeastern United States.

STALK H D GORDON

Blog l Author Facebook Page l Twitter l Goodreads Author Page

H.D.Gordon Facebook page l Webpage l Goodreads Fan Club

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To pick up any of H D Gordon’s books from Amazon, simply click on the cover.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY REVIEW: Blood Warrior: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book I by H D Gordon

MY 5 STAR REVIEW: Half Black Soul: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book II by H D

MY 5 STAR REVIEW: The Rise: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book III by H. D. Gordon

My 5 STAR REVIEW: Redemption: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book IV by H. D. Gordon

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Review of Redemption: Book IV of The Alexa Montgomery Saga by H D Gordon

Posted on September 16, 2013 by fundinmental

Welcome to the continuing Alexa Montgomery Saga by H D Gordon. If you have followed her series, you are familiar with Alexa and Kayden. I hope you enjoy this shocking finale as much as I did.

The covers of The Alexa Montgomery Saga by H D Gordon are distinctive and when you see them, you know they are a part of her series. Redemption, Book IV is no exception and I love them all. I think they are gorgeous.

Spoiler alert: This is Book IV of The Alexa Montgomergy Saga.. I will do my best to not share too much so I do not ruin your reading enjoyment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The war that was prophesied had begun but who would be the Savior – Alexa or Nelly?

The villagers breathed easier but something had changed. They were waiting to find out what would happen next.

Alexa felt the urge to kill as strong as ever, but the Monster inside her reminded her of why she was doing this – Nelly.

At the same time, Nelly saw Alexa lying dead beside the king she had slain. A scream erupted from Nelly’s throat.

Who would be destroyed? Who would be left standing when the war is over?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Redemption by H D Gordon is a novel of an ongoing supernatural war with faes, trolls, pixies, sorcerers, leprechauns, demons, angel, vampires, wolves and many other members of the magical community.

Alexa and Nelly are sisters that will sacrifice everything for each other. They are very unique magical beings who have a special role in the war.

Kayden is Alexa’s love interest and H D Gordon has a photograph to feast your eyes on. What do you think? Is he worthy?

Redemption rocked from the opening page. It is jam packed with non-stop action that kept coming, rolling over me, leaving me awash with a need to get to the end and find the answer – what will become of Alexa? I want her to have a happy ending. I feel she deserves it for all the sacrifices she has made.

I try to read through the tears in my eyes, my heart breaking. This can’t be the end. H. D. you blew my mind. I can’t begin to tell you the emotions that ran through me as I struggled to finish the book.

“How is one broken thing supposed to fix another?” ” With love.”

5 STARS – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

I received Redemption from H D Gordon in return for an honest and unbiased review. Thank you H D, for giving me the opportunity to read and review the entire series.

A new character is introduced in this book and there is a spinoff series to The Alexa Mongomery Saga – The Surah Stormsong Novels. Shooting Stars, Book I is now available. Falling Stars, Book II is scheduled for release on September 15, 2013.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

STALK H D GORDON

Blog l Author Facebook Page l Twitter l Goodreads Author Page

H.D.Gordon Facebook page l Webpage l Goodreads Fan Club

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To pick up any of H D Gordon’s books from Amazon, simply click on the cover.

MY REVIEW: Blood Warrior: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book I by H D Gordon

MY 5 STAR REVIEW: Half Black Soul: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book II by H D

MY 5 STAR REVIEW: The Rise: The Alexa Montgomery Saga, Book III by H. D. Gordon

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Arc Review – Bad Things Do Happen to Good People – Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman

Posted on September 9, 2013 by fundinmental

Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman has an awesome cover. Even in it’s simplicity, it holds tremendous menace, but doesn’t even begin to portray the darkness that is to come. If you like Stephen King and Dean Koontz, you are going to love Beck Sherman. So, folks, grab hold tight because this is going to be a very bumpy ride.

I downloaded Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman and told myself to just check it, DO NOT READ anything. I have others I need to do first and I knew if I read even the first paragraph, I wouldn’t want to stop until it was over. I have read Revamped by Beck Sherman and her writing is so fantastic, I knew this would be just as good. Oh, heck, hope the authors waiting for my reviews will forgive me. The release is coming up and I feel I just have to read this now. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it. ^_^

SYNOPSIS:

A New Adult Horror Thriller

Since the night of the accident, Cain Emmerick has felt different. Empty. What was important to him—family, friends, his job—doesn’t matter anymore. His new life revolves around that Nothing inside of him and the extraordinary highs he gets from committing random acts of violence.

Seventeen-year-old Joey Morgan is blind, but that doesn’t stop her from seeing. Something bad is about to happen. Something that could tear her world apart. For Joey, college life isn’t quite turning out like she planned, because before good grades, fitting in, and love, comes survival.

From the author of Revamp comes a delightfully gruesome roller-coaster ride of a book.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Review of Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Things couldn’t get better for Cain, until……”Too bad. So sad.”

Uh oh. I see it coming. I think this is gonna be bad for someone.

Lacey, his five year old daughter told Cain, “Daddy you lied. The bad dream came true.”

Life flashed before Cain’s eyes, then he felt Nothing.

OMG. No way. WTF? NO! NO! I never saw that coming and it is so far past horrible that I can’t take any more. Okay, that’s it Beck. I’m gonna go mow the lawn now while I process the unimaginable evil you just made me read and prepare myself for more.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman is a paranormal horror story that goes so far into the dark abyss of evil that I am sitting here with my jaw hanging open thinking….I can’t even think of what to say. I am stunned, speechless.

Beck Sherman’s writing is excellent and grabs me from the first page, never letting me go. I took a couple breaks in reading to absorb the story because I was so shocked and appalled at what was happening. It made be want to weep and rage, to strike out at the evil and demand that it be undone. I am always amazed at an author when they come up with something so shocking, dark and evil, that I can’t even come up with the words to describe it. I never would have went there and I don’t know how Beck Sherman got there either.

I laughed all the way through the first chapter. It starts out so happy, cute and normal – the neighbor in his short pink bathrobe and his hairy legs sticking out, going out to pick up his paper and Cain finding his car keys in the freezer. Have you ever done that? No fibbing now.

The suspense and anticipation has me sitting on the edge of my seat. I just know something bad is coming. I don’t know what. I don’t know when. But it will come, that I know.

There is graphic violence with gruesome, blood and guts horror, that left me breathless. The monster we fear can be the guy next door. That scares me more than the Vampire or Werewolf lurking in the novels I read.

Cain is not a morning person. I smiled, because neither am I, even though I am up before daylight most of the the time. I love to listen as the world comes alive around me. Just don’t talk to me or even look at me for an hour. I may bite. Then I read about blood sucking vampires and psycho murderers and serial killers. LOL I love it.

Romance. I knew there would be hiccups, but my heart broke, right along with Joey’s. That age old issue of communication rears its ugly head. When the characters, just like real people, do not communicate, things can get royally fucked up.

Beck Sherman gives a guy a Pink Panther tatoo. I love Pink Panther. She mentions Nascar, when Cain chose a 1967 black Dodge Charger for his car. I always love hearing about the cars characters drive. These added tidbits make her writing exceptional. Such details make a book go from great to awesome. I love it.

The dialogue is fantastic. I loved the bantering tone and humor. It made me go from laughing one minute, to shock and utter disgust the next.

It is these things that makes it easy to relate to the characters. They come alive because of their foibles.

Joey is going to college for photography, even though she is legally blind. She sees bright colors and shapes, plus her best friend, Ren, helps her whenever he can. Will they be more than friends?

Joey carries her camera everywhere she goes, as if it is an appendage. I can relate. I do the same thing.

Beck Sherman spends some time telling of Joey taking photographs of a bench……There is a lot more to it, but you will have to find out for yourself. I love taking photographs of benches with

Grand Canyon, Mr Wonderful (c) Sherry Fundin

or without people.

Grand Canyon (c) Sherry Fundin

Cain was a super nice guy, a great husband and father – until he RAN into Billy.

Life sucked for Billy. People only messed with him once. And right now, he wanted to make someone pay.

Hospital receptionist – nurse Nazi. Some people, you give them a little power and it goes to their head. I call them Nazi’s – like the mean nurse, the rude flight attendant………

Beck Sherman mentions the Book of Shadows and an athame. The only reason I know what she is talking about is because I love to watch the Charmed TV show. I never watched it when it was on, but now I watch the reruns in the early hours of the morn. Not a lot to choose from that I like to watch, but Charmed comes on and then Supernatural.

QUOTES

“…stamp of little feet…sounds like 1000 children….just one.” 5 years old.

“… pine cones for show and tell.” So darn cute.

Barbie head with grass in her hair. “Play nicer with Barbie, okay?”

“Suited Road Runners..Beep Beep”

“Joey enjoyed reading a good book slowly, hanging on every well written word, flipping them over in her mind, tasting each like it was a savory meal and she a starving castaway.” How beautiful is that? Me? I’m a fast reader, racing through the pages, even though I know I will hate it when the last page is read!

Here’s to the men we love. Here’s to the men who love us. If the men we love, don’t love us, fuck the men and here’s to us!”

Cheers and happy reading!

5 STARS – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

I gotta tell you about this, oh and this. You are not going to believe this and it stays with me a long time after the reading is done. Okay, I know I didn’t tell you anything, but YOU will want to read the story to find out for yourself.

Beck Sherman leaves me clamoring for more.

I received Goodbye Nothing from Beck Sherman in return for an honest and unbiased review. I would have reviewed it anyway, after having read her excellent first book Revamp. To see my 5 STAR Review and more about Revamp, keep scrolling down.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Beck Sherman was born and raised in Massachusetts. Beck attended Syracuse University undergrad, has a master’s degree in photojournalism from the University of Westminster, London, and when not writing, enjoys exploring abandoned insane asylums and photo-documenting the things that go bump in the night, when they’re kind enough to pose.

STALKING LINKS

Website l Goodreads l Facebook

~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY 5 STAR REVIEW OF REVAMP

To get your copy, simply click on the cover below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

FOR THREE DAYS, IT WAS DARK.

News reporters scrambled. This was the biggest story to come along in weeks.

.
They called it a blackout.

.
The last one was in New York City in 2003, but this one was different, special, because the grids in six major cities across the country had been fried, kaput, see-you-next-Sunday. Everyone with some jurisdiction blamed each other, and when there was no one left to blame, terrorism rode in on its gallant steed.

.
It was the media’s fault. They were so busy stuffing fanatical Muslims with a penchant for Allah and decapitations down the American citizen’s throat, that they never saw it coming. I guess I shouldn’t be too hard on them.

They were partially right.

.
It was terror after all, but a whole new kind. And when the lights came back on, things had changed.

The dark had brought us visitors.

“[Revamp is] a giddy satire on all things American and yet, at the same time, a kind of homage to the traditional vampire book…the words flow delightfully in this story. In fact, I sucked up the words.” 4 out of 5 stars, Phil Semler, San Francisco Book Review

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To get your copy of Beck Sherman’s books from Amazon, click on the cover below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tag Team Event – Giveaway and Review of The Twelfth Child by Bette Lee Crosby

Posted on August 30, 2013 by fundinmental

This Tag Team Event is to enable Laura, at fuonlyknew, and I to share our love of Bette Lee Crosby’s books with all our readers and followers. Go HERE to find out what Laura has to say and another chance to win.

$tag you're it photo: Tag! You\'re It! AnyOccasion-TagYoureIt-May2007.jpg$

The Twelfth Child by Bette Lee Crosby is only one of her amazing, award-winning books.

My Collection of Bette Lee Crosby’s books by Sherry Fundin

It took me two hours to get this shot. I went from room to room looking for a place that wouldn’t leave a glare on the photo.Then I waited until the sun moved away from the back of the house. I finally chose this shot, taken on the pew in the kitchen. Enjoy these beauties, then choose one for yourself.

“Magic happens inside our heads, people can’t see magic.”

1900’s

Abigail Anne was more than capable of helping her papa but he only had eyes for William, his son. She was the twelfth born child in a family where girls were expected to do “girl things” and get married by the time they were sixteen. But Abigail’s dreams far surpassed what her father expected from her.

After her mother, died she would remember her saying, “Someday Abigail Anne, someday, every girl with an adventurous heart will be able to follow her dreams”.

Seventy years later

Destiny entered her life. She was a giving, happy, optimistic, hard working girl, who had raised herself. Abigail thought it was wonderful to have a neighbor like Destiny and everything was better when she was around. She was always there, whenever Abigail needed a helping hand, and neither expected nor asked for anything in return.

Abigail’s nephew, Elliot, had only one thing on his mind, her money, and he would do whatever it took to get it. Abigail would never forget what he said, when she first met him. “So, ‘this’ is Abigail Anne….the twelfth child of William Lannigan….my grandmother was the ‘first’.”

When a million dollars comes up missing, Elliot is quick to blame it on Destiny. With no one to help, what would become of her?

Image courtesy of dream designs at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The book cover conveys the feeling of the 1900’s. I love the old time look of it. I find her covers are full of emotion and portray the stories that will be told between the pages.

I should know by now, whenever I read one of Bette Lee Crosby’s books, I need to have a box of tissues handy. The range of emotions her writing evokes in me go to every extreme. I feel tears in my eyes as I am writing this. The anger and disgust over the disrespect for girls and women is far outweighed by the sadness I feel. To think it is not going on today, is to deny reality. There are still plenty of male chauvinists around, in every walk of life.

Bette Lee Crosby’s characters are richly developed and read as if they are the people next door. Destiny was such a good person, it was so wrong that she was subjected to all the things she went through.But, no one every said life was fair. I felt her pain and wondered how The Twelfth Child could end up with a happy ending.

The things people do for money knows no bounds. Greed is alive and well. I can only hope the cliches are true “what goes around comes around.”

I always find myself engrossed in her books from beginning to end, unable to put them down. I read The Twelfth Child until the wee hours of the morning. The writing is excellent and swept me along. I had to know what Destiny’s destiny would be.

5 STARS – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

It doesn’t really matter to me whether Bette Lee Crosby expects a review from me or not. Her books speak so loudly to me, that I feel I will always have to share them. She kindly gave me a signed paperback that holds a prominent place in my bookshelf, next to her other books.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bette Lee Crosby’s work was first recognized in 2006, when she won the National League of American Pen Women Award for unpublished fiction with What Matters Most. Her novel, Cracks in the Sidewalk, received the 2009 Royal Palm Literary Award and then went on to win the 2011 FPA President’s Book Award Gold Medal. In 2011 Spare Change received the Reviewer’s Choice Awards and it garnered a second Royal Palm Literary Award. Her books have earned numerous five-star ratings with readers acclaiming them as heartwarming and captivating.

Most recently, Bette completed a memoir written for Lani Deauville, a woman the Guinness Book of Records lists as The World’s Longest Living Quadriplegic.

To see what Bette Lee Crosby is up to, follow the links below.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter

~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

Bette Lee Crosby is offering for the Giveaway:

1 Signed Paperback of The Twelfth Child – US ONLY.

1 ebook of The Twelfth Child – International.

Easy entry as always, just leave your email address with your choice, PB or ebook and answer the question:

Do you believe in Destiny?

Giveaway ends FRIDAY, September 13, 2013.

Friday the 13th is not always a bad thing.

Go HERE to find out what Laura has to say and another chance to win.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bette Lee Crosby has a new release that I would love to share with you. Bette’s covers seem to convey strong emotions in me. They are so sweet and true to life. They speak to me. Do you feel the same?

SYNOPSIS

When tragedy strikes a West Virginia coal mining family, two children start out on a trek that they hope will lead them to a new life. Before a day passes, the children are separated and the boy is caught up in a robbery not of his making. If his sister can find him, she may be able to save him. The problem is she’s only seven years old, and who’s going to believe a kid?

Jubilee’s Journey is Book Two in the Wyattsville Series. This story of discovering lost family and finding love reconnects readers with Ethan Allen and the other heart-warming characters of the bestselling novel SPARE CHANGE

~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you would like to purchase a copy of Bette Lee’s books, click on the cover below.

To see my Review of What Matters Most, go HERE.

To see my Review of Spare Change, go HERE.

To see my Review of Cupid’s Christmas, go HERE.

To see my Review of Cracks In The Sidewalk, go HERE.

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Grand Finale for Shudder, Book II of the Stitch Trilogy by Samantha Durante with Review

Posted on August 29, 2013 by fundinmental

Samantha Durante has written a unique tale of science fiction. I am honored to be a part of this fantastic tour. Congratulations Samantha and I can hardly wait for Book III.

The Highlight Tour with Prism Book Tours& Samantha’s Summer Tour

The second installment in the electrifying Stitch Trilogy, Shudder follows Samantha Durante’s shocking and innovative debut with a heart-pounding, paranormal-dusted dystopian adventure sure to keep the pages turning.

Shudder

348 pages

Published June 15, 2013

— Book 2 in the Stitch Trilogy —

It’s only been three days, and already everything is different.

Paragon is behind her, but somehow Alessa’s life may actually have gotten worse. In a wrenching twist of fate, she traded the safety and companionship of her sister for that of her true love, losing a vital partner she’d counted on for the ordeal ahead. Her comfortable university life is but a distant memory, as she faces the prospect of surviving a bleak winter on the meager remains of a ravaged world. And if she’d thought she’d tasted fear upon seeing a ghost, she was wrong; now she’s discovering new depths of terror while being hunted by a deadly virus and a terrifying pack of superhuman creatures thirsting for blood.

And then there are the visions.

The memory-altering “stitch” unlocked something in Alessa’s mind, and now she can’t shake the constant flood of alien feelings ransacking her emotions. Haunting memories of an old flame are driving a deep and painful rift into her once-secure relationship. And a series of staggering revelations about the treacherous Engineers – and the bone-chilling deceit shrouding her world’s sorry history – will soon leave Alessa reeling…

Goodreads * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Smashwords

Also available in the iTunes store, Kobo, and wherever e-books are sold!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY REVIEW OF SHUDDDER

Alessa is finally learning what the Stitch is all about.

Now, she has a mission. She wants to get it done so she can go home. She has no idea if Janie is dead or alive. It had broken her heart to leave her behind.

The Mission:

1. Find the rebels base.

2. Figure out who is the enemy.

3. Avoid the creatures.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The cover for Shudder is very pretty. I like that the covers of the trilogy are similar.

Samantha Durante’s second book of the trilogy, Shudder, is another resounding hit. It has so many things going on that, at times, I was torn about where I wanted the story to go. There is much to decipher, while she weaves her way through the hidden pitfalls.

Alessa left Pargon and her sister behind her to be with Isaac. But she could not forget about Joe, even though it was jeopardizing her relationship with Isaac. I’m thinking there must be a reason that Joe is on her mind so much. Will we see him again?

The nuclear winter caused when the bombs fell created famines. As the viral epidemic decimated the population and people became more and more desperate to survive, there was a group of men who figured out a solution. But, it is not a solution that anyone in their right mind could believe would work. I wonder if the same would happen in the real world.

The saying: “History repeats itself” is so pertinent to the events happening to Alessa.

It makes me think of the Holocaust and and the evil that spawned from the minds of some evil men who thought they had all the answers. It, also, makes me think of American politics at this time, how a few can disregard the many, for their own gains.

It is amazing to me that the egos of some people allow them to think they have all answers and, therefore, have the right to play God.

The thought of a virus wiping out the majority of the Earth’s population is something real. Just think – due to rapid means of travel, a virus could be spread world-wide before it is even recognized. I have talked to a doctor who believes that is what will be our downfall.

Would our governments step in and decide who would live and who would die? What do you think?

5 STARS – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

I received a copy of this book in return for an honest and unbaised review. I was eagerly waiting for Book II of the Stich Trilogy and would have written the review regardless. Now I am waiting for Book III so I can see how Alessa’s story ends.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

GUEST POST

Painstakingly Plotted World

Review at Frodo’s Blog of Randomness (good comments here on POVs)

The plot! People, the twists and turns in this book?! Seriously, it’s amazing how Durante keeps you on your toes throughout. I kept thinking I had everything figured out and then BAM, another wrench thrown into what I thought I knew. There are conflicts of interest between characters, on opposite sides and even on their own. Dangers lurk around every corner. New abilities are just waiting to be discovered! How do you get better than that? Awesome.

Review at Wintry Words

Starting Shudder, I had little idea where the story was going to go. I had little predictions that might go somewhere, but in the end…nothing went as planned. Shudder has so ferociously shown me how quickly good things can turn bad. When things should’ve been heart-lifting, but ended up heartbreaking. There wasn’t a moment where I was privy to the whole plot. Samantha keeps you guessing throughout every page, ever chapter. Roads she could’ve led the plot down are erased and then rewritten. She puppeteers the story into a direction you wouldn’t think possible. Yet again Samantha breaks all boundaries before set.

Review at Cynthia Shepp Book Reviews & Editing

The complexity of the plot and the dynamics have you wondering what exactly Samantha has in her mind to be able to imagine this complex world. I never one time imagined that what happens in the book could actually happen but now the idea is planted firmly in my mind. It is a little freaky. While reading the book, you will do nothing but search your mind, wondering what in the world could happen next, and you would be wrong every time.

Review at Dark Obsession Chronicles

I’m having trouble wrapping my head around all the revelations, and questions Shudder contained. Yet another noodle warp. … Stitch really did set it up, but like Neo found out in the Matrix, that rabbit hole is one freaky mother. … I was surprised, confused, hopeful, frustrated, elated, and flabbergasted at times while reading Shudder. That is a sign right there. Any book that can give you some sort of emotional roller coaster (but not a traumatizing one,) is definite re-read material.

Review at Nette’s Bookshelf

I find the juxtaposition of Paragon and our society fascinatingly similar. Similar in that we are so enamored or distracted by “reality t.v” and the lives of others that we forget about what’s going on “out there” in the real world. I also find similarities with the ruling class and our government but I’m going to stop at this sentence, lest I get away from myself and begin discussing politics and world issues and other topics that have nothing to do with my review of a book. And that whole issue with the food? One word. Monsanto. Anyway, I’m getting away from myself here…What I’m trying to say is, Samantha Durante creatively and cleverly devised a story that’s based on real-life ideas and turned it into a thought provoking novel.

Interview at Passionate Book Divas

Something about the dystopian genre has always drawn me to it even since I was a little kid. I vividly remember reading The Giver back in sixth grade and I just loved how much it made me think. I guess that’s true of science fiction in general – I love trying to picture how we could get from where we are today to one of these crazy future societies.

Guest Post at Book Briefs

To me, there’s nothing creepier than a place that’s *supposed* to be filled with people, but isn’t Being alone in a big, quiet place just sets my primal instinct sirens wailing. My heart starts fluttering in anticipation of the need to run or fight, and every tiny noise rings in my ears like a cannon blast. It was this eerie feeling – of being utterly alone, but at the same time, not feeling in any way secure – that I sought to recreate in Shudder.

Review at Fuonlyknew

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Samantha Durante, Author of the Stitch Trilogy

As an avid lifelong reader of fiction of all sorts, there’s nothing I find more engrossing than an epic sci-fi/fantasy/romance series. I’ve whiled away countless weekends of my life immersed in richly-woven worlds that someone else was kind enough to put on paper… about the author

Samantha Durante lives in Westchester County, New York with her husband, Sudeep, and her cat, Gio. Formerly an engineer at Microsoft, Samantha left the world of software in 2010 to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams and a lifelong love of writing. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology, Samantha is currently working full time for her company Medley Media Associates as a freelance business writer and communications consultant. The Stitch Trilogy is her debut series.

Website * Goodreads * Facebook * Twitter

Stitch

314 pages

Published August 1st, 2012

Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa’s body screams at her to run… but yet she’s powerless to move.

Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence… Goodreads

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tour-Wide Giveaway:

5 Winners. August 24 – September 16, 2013. See Rafflecopter for restrictions.

* Signed print copy of Stitch & Shudder for you and two friends (USA only)

* Signed (via Authorgraph) e-book copies of Stitch & Shudder for you and two friends (Int’l)

* Signed Stitch & Shudder bookmarks + e-book copies of Stitch & Shudder (Int’l)

* $10 Amazon Gift Card (Int’l)

* $5 Amazon Gift Card (Int’l)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Highlight Tour

Sharing Top Highlights from the Summer-Long Tour!

August dates:

24 – The Reading Diaries – Review

– The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl

– Rose & Beps Blog

25 – Chapter Break – Review

– Wonderings of One Person – Review

– Mortal Moments

26 – A Tiffyfit’s Reading Corner – Review

– Kindred Dreamhart

27 – YA Book Addict – Review

– The Bookish Daydreamer

– Melissa’s Eclectic Bookshelf

28 – Library of a Book Witch

– Mommasez… – Review

29 – Mel’s Shelves – Review

– Fundinmental

30 – Green Mountain Couple

– Literary Meanderings

31 – Donnie Darko Girl – Review

– My Devotional Thoughts

Sept. 1 – The Book Rogue

GRAND FINALE

You can pick your Amazon copy by clicking on the cover below.

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaway Tour of Pelican Bay By Jesse Giles Christiansen

Posted on August 27, 2013 by fundinmental

The cover is awesome. I love everything about it. The Captain’s old eyes make me wonder what he is thinking. The font tells me there is much more than a mystery coming at me. The lightening means there is a storm coming and I wonder who will be left standing when it is over. The colors help lend an aura of menace to the overall fantastic package.

BE SURE and watch the trailer. If my description of the cover didn’t help draw you in and make you want to read the book, the creepy trailer will.

Book Details:
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
Published by: Imajin Books
Release Date: (July 20, 2013)
Number of Pages: ~300

SYNOPSIS

Some things are better left alone…

After Ethan Hodges discovers an undersea cemetery just off the beach of Pelican Bay, South Carolina, he seeks answers from a grandfatherly fisherman named Captain Shelby. The captain wants the past to remain buried, and he warns Ethan to stay away. But Ethan doesn’t listen.

Ethan’s best friend and secret love interest, Morgan Olinsworth, joins in the investigation, unearthing intriguing secrets about the mysterious fisherman. When Captain Shelby is suspected of murder and disappears, a manhunt ensues, revealing a truth that unnerves everyone in Pelican Bay.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY REVIEW

Ethan was intrigued by the stones jutting above the water. He had to see them for himself.

It was an underwater graveyard.

Ethan talked his friend, Morgan into diving with him to see if they could find any names on the stones.

Morgan was a librarian, so when they found a name, she began to investigate.

Their search took them in an unexpected and dangerous direction.

Did Captain Shelby have all the answers?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I saw the beautiful and intriguing cover and the title and knew I would have to be a part of the tour. I love legends of the sea.

Pelican Bay is a ghost story that has a gothic feel to it. The writing made me think of the term “waxing poetic”. At first it annoyed me and I thought, do I even want to read this? But I read on and am glad I did. The book subtly sneaks up on me and the need to know the answers grasps me and won’t let me go. It went from – I don’t think I can get past the first chapter to – hey, this isn’t so bad to – I can’t put it down until I know…

As I got into Ethan’s story, I could visualize the grizzled, old sea Captain and the water that was the lifeblood of Pelican Bay.

“In Pelican Bay, the sea was the Hand of God.”

It is also a love story. Ethan Hodges has been in love with Morgan as long as he can remember, but she won’t even discuss their relationship. She won’t even look him in the eye. It seemed pretty pathetic to me.

The characters are unique and my feelings about them bounced back and forth, like a tennis ball, throughout the book.

Instead of a grown man, Ethan seemed like a love struck teenager. I really didn’t like him pining for Morgan’s unrequited love, following her around like a puppy dog begging for a pat on the head. Even the characters tell him to man up. LOL But, I did love his adventurous spirit.

And Morgan? I thought she was a nutcase. But, yes, another but, she does get caught up in Ethan’s desire to find out about the Captain and the graveyard.

Now, the old sea Captain, Shelby, I loved him. I knew there was more to him than meets the eye. Maybe that is what intrigued me about him. Was he just an old sea captain? Was he even a man? Was he a god?

Nereus – Greek god know as “the old man of the sea.”

Jesse’s vivid descriptions made me feel as if I was there. I could smell the water and feel the salt spray misting on my skin. I could feel the sand shifting under me as I sat on the beach, watching the waves. I have always loved doing that. I find it very soothing and I lose track of time, as wave after wave rolls in. I love listening to the sound of the waves pounding on the seashore, watching the water recede back to where it came from.

I love body surfing, with or without a board, rushing through the water on the top of the wave. Turning around and paddling back out to do it again and again.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 3 STARS – Would Recommend To Others

I received this book in return for an honest and unbiased review for Great Escapes Book Tours. Thank you Jesse and Great Escapes for the opportunity to read and review the book. I look forward to reading more of Jesse Giles Christiansen’s work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jesse Giles Christiansen is an American author who writes compelling literary fiction that weaves the real with the surreal. He attended Florida State University where he received his B.A. in English literature. His newest novel, “Pelican Bay,” focuses on a very old fisherman, Captain Shelby, and the mysterious happenings linked to him surrounding a nosy, sea-battered beach town (release date: July 20th, 2013, Imajin Books). One of his literary goals is to write at least fifty novels, and he reminds himself always of something that Ray Bradbury once said: “You fail only if you stop writing.”

AUTHOR LINKS
.

Website / Blog / Twitter / Facebook

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TOUR SCHEDULE

August 26 – readalot – Review & Giveaway
August 27 – fundinmental – Review & Giveaway
August 28 – Books4Tomorrow – Interview & Giveaway
August 29 – SavingFor6 – Review
August 30 – rantin’ ravin’ and reading – Review, Interview & Giveaway
August 31 – Kaisy Daisy’s Corner – Review & Giveaway
September 1 – Brooke Blogs – Review, Interview & Giveaway
September 2 – Must Read Faster – Review
September 3 – THE SELF-TAUGHT COOK – Review
September 4 – Musings and Ramblings – Interview & Giveaway
September 5 – Shelley’s Book Case – Review & Giveaway
September 6 – Cozy Up With Kathy – Review & Interview

GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos Jesse Giles Christionsen is offering for the Giveaway 1 (one) ebook to 1 (one) lucky commenter. International. Easy entry as always, just leave your email address and answer the question:

What do you think of the cover?

GIVEAWAY IS OVER AND THE WINNER IS – Sandy. Congratulations!!!

To purchase your copy of Pelican Bay, simply click on the cover below.

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Monday Mini – Taking The Fall by Margaret Chatwin

Posted on August 26, 2013 by fundinmental

Okay, I admit it. I sell myself out when it comes to covers. I saw this cover in a giveaway and knew I had to enter. YAY! I won this signed, first edition paperback of Taking The Fall by Margaret Chatwin on the tiffanylovesbooks blog quite a while ago, actually September 24, 2012. I would like to again send my thanks to Margaret and Tiffany. It may take me a while, but I WILL read and review every book I have won.

I love it. An employee that does their job too well. So well, in fact, that it places her life in danger. Enter a man who will betray her. A cabin in the woods. I knew what would happen, but this is a great story about life and the ability to pick yourself up after you have been knocked down. The tension Margaret Chatwin created by very successfully twisting and drawing out the conclusion made me read this cover to cover, unable to stop.

“Your first name should be Independent. Independent Hill.”

Fear is only an emotion. What you do with it will define you.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos 4 STARS – Would Highly Recommend To Others

To pick up a copy of Margaret Chatwin books, simply click on the cover below.