Sherry’s Shelves #12 – Lots ‘O Books

Posted on July 27, 2014 by fundinmental

Sherry’s Shelves is my weekly update, where I will recap what I have been doing the past week: July 20 – July 26, 2014.

.Sunday Post is Hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer

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Stacking the Shelves is Hosted by Tynga’s Reviews

Bought, Borrowed and Bagged is Hosted by TalkSupe

***all images are linked to Amazon (I am an affiliate)***

***if listed as free, please check for the “0″***

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Picked up for FREE

I added a bunch……again. I just can’t seem to control myself.

If I see it, I have to have it. Gonna have to quit looking. ^_^

FIVE by Christie Rich

I heard about FIVE by Christie Rich through S M Boyce.

I love a good fantasy and look forward to learning about Rayla Tate.

Many thanks to S M Boyce and Christie Rich.

This was still free at time of posting, but check for the “0”.

SIGNIFICANCE by Shelly Crane

I heard about this freebie through S M Boyce.

I have heard of Shelly but not read any of her work, so I picked up this.

Many thanks to S M Boyce and Christie Rich.

This was still free at time of posting, but check for the “0”.

EYES OF THE HAMMER by Bob Mayer

All of Bob Mayer’s books look fascinating to me. I found this one on Kindle Books and Tips.

I love the Green Beret. Does anyone remember the song?

Thanks to KBT and Bob Mayer.

ENEMIES FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC by Matthew Bracken

Another great sounding book from Kindle Books and Tips.

Thanks KBT and Matthew Bracken.

BILLY AND THE MONSTER WHO LOVED TO FART by David Chuka

I heard about this free story from fuonlyknew.

It looks so cute, so I grabbed.

Many thanks Laura and David Chuka.

At the time of posting it is still free. Check for the “0″.

THE CONDUIT by Stacey Rourke

Can’t remember who pointed this out to me, but thanks. ^_^

Still free at time of posting. Check for the “0”.

LADY JUSTICE AND THE PHARAOHS CURSE by Robert Thornhill

I received this book through a Goodreads event. I have read some of Robert’s work and love it.

Thanks so much Robert!

Still free at time of posting. Look for the “0”.

GIRL JACKED by Christopher Greyson

I found this book through Kindle Nation Daily. The title grabbed me and the rest of the package finished me off. This sounds fantastic

MURDER! Too Close To Home by J T Lewis

I found this freebie on Sandy’s Spotlight.

Thanks for sharing Sandy And J T Lewis.

Still free at time of posting. Check for the “0”.

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Received for Review

TRYING to limit myself until I have caught up with my backlog. I couldn’t resist this one.

GEMINI RISING ETHEREAL FURY, Book I by Jessica O’Gorek

I have seen this book around for a while and never had a chance to read it. I love the synopsis and am excited to finally read it.

I will be posting a review on August 6, 2014

BEHIND YOU by Carly M Duncan

I read the synopsis and became curious.

How would it feel if you were afraid of those closest to you….your husband, your parents, sisters, brothers ……….

REMAINS OF INNOCENCE by J A Jance

I have read numerous novels by J A Jance, and have always enjoyed them tremendously,

I look forward to another murderous adventure with Sheriff Joanna Brady.

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WON

BUMMER, I don’t have anything to share today. ^_^

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Last week on fundinmental

Purr-fect Mating by Sheryl Winters – Release Day Blitz Giveaway

Two DARK Reviews in honor of the release of Dark Secrets by Madeline Pryce

Teaser Tuesday #18 – Buckle Your Seatbelt for Avoidable Contact by Tammy Kaehler

The Zombies Are Coming – The Harvesting by Melanie Karsak

Must Read PNR & Character Interview – Purr-Fect Mating by Sheryl Winters

Murder is the Name of the Game – Profile of Terror by Alexa Grace – Excerpt & Giveaway

Friday 56 # 18 – A Serial Killer Ghost – Tortured Souls by Kimber Leigh Wheaton

Book Blast Giveaway – Uriel’s Fall by Loralie Hall

World’s Best Story: Rewarding readers and book bloggers for telling the world they found a great story!

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This week on fundinmental

I do have some surprises in store for this week, so be sure and stay in touch.

I never know what might pop up, so upcoming events are always subject to change.

I will also be doing some of the memes that I love so much.

41 Strange Review – 41 Unique Horror Tales To Keep You Up At Night

Tesla’s Imprint by Kimberly Adkins

Teaser Tuesday

Tag Team Event – Review for Fanged Princess by Elisabeth Wheatley

Cover Reveal for Black Collar Empire

Release Day and Review for Mel Goes To Hell by Demelza Carlton

Cover Reveal for Eternal Light by Nelly B Jones – A Fellow Blogger

Cover Reveal for Ultimate Fear by Kristine Mason

Review and Tour for The Eyes Die Last by Teri Riggs

Freakin Friday – Review for Unfed by Kirsty McKay

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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.

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Must Read PNR & Character Interview – Purr-Fect Mating by Sheryl Winters

Posted on July 23, 2014 by fundinmental

After reading Purr-fect Mating by Sheryl Winters, a fantastic paranormal novella, I am so excited to have Fhina here today, right after my review.

We have a lot to share, so fix yourself a cuppa, put up your feet and let’s begin.

MY REVIEW

Here Kitty, Kitty

OMG! This was such a fun read! The writing was light and chockfull of humor. Werecat meets wereshifter and they fall in love. But that’s not the end of the story. I read Purr-fect Mating in less than 40 minutes. I loved it and couldn’t stop until the last word was read. A Purr-fect ending that had me smiling…..again.

Fhina could smell the shifter and the human. Will her inner Kitty be necessary to save the wereshifter from the human hunter?

She called herself a loner Kitty and she was a bad Kitty for even thinking such sexy thoughts about the guy she found on her porch.

Of course, they will get together, but they each carry their own curse and the result of their mating was not what they planned.

Wulfar will be a wolf, except for one day a year. Fhina will forget Wulfar is her mate.

She awakes and wonders when she got a dog? I busted out laughing. You HAVE to be there to get the full affect. If you love the paranormal, this is a MUST READ.

Kitty stole my heart and I laughed my way through the book. I have never met a werecat, but I would love to meet Fhina and have her come out to play. I think we could be great friends.

Sheryl Winter’s creation of Kitty’s inner dialogue is mind blowing. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud, repeatedly. I know I keep repeating myself, but I am still amazed at how much I enjoyed reading Purr-fect Mating.

A quick, easy and fun read. The short story flows so well, I raced through the pages and reached the end all too soon. I knew it had to have a happy ending, but the journey is one I won’t soon forget.

I received an ebook in return for an honest and unbiased review.

5 Stars – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

CHARACTER INTERVIEW WITH FHINA

“I’m here with the author of ‘One Hundred and One Way’s to Piss Off a Tiger. The breaking of our mutual curses and the counter charms that refused to work on them.”

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I settle myself into the kitchen chair hastily moved into the living room by Fhina’s extremely good looking husband.

“You stated in your book that you spent nearly three months unable to recognize your husband in his wolf form. Then you go on to describe in bitter detail how each counter charm worked against your curse. Can you tell me a little about it?”

“Well the book itself explains in lengthy detail how I used every counter charm. It took months of researching. Then of course, as you’ll read, the curse ended on it’s own.” Fhina slides a pair of glasses up on top of her hair. She’s nudging a large stroller back and forth with her feet. Her daughter Angel is sound asleep inside it. The tiny blonde baby is a guaranteed heart breaker when she’s older.

In the kitchen, Fhina’s husband Wulfar is learning over the table. A flat edged pencil is behind one ear, his son Blade, strapped to his back. A blue print is lying on the table before him and he’s measuring out two more rooms.

“Can you explain what brought you to the decision to write about your curses.”

“I was writing a novel at the time and naturally as I tried to break our curses I began taking notes. Before I knew it I realized I was writing a book.” Fhina points towards a bookcase, so new that the stain is so bright it attacks the eyes. The case is full of books, curse books to be precise. They practically shout obscenities at you with each new title. Their dark cover jackets are dark and threatening a complete opposite of this charming little home. “Those will all go in the new library, the one Wulf..” She coughs, “My husband Wulfar is building.”

I check out the various titles in the book case, “Fhina, what was the worst curse you researched?”

“Personally, I think forgetting her mate was about as bad as it could get.” Wulfar deep voice booms out from the other room.

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“Just ignore him. Although, just this once I’d say he’s right.” Fhina twists her mouth thoughtfully, “I might need a moment on this one.”

“What’s the matter Babe? Cat got your tongue?” Wulfar laughs from his position at the table.

“Oh you!” Fhina snorts. “Don’t mind him. He’s been impossible since he returned to his human form. Seriously though, you asked which curse I think is the worst.” She pulls out her new book and strokes the front cover lovingly. The spine is so stiff it crackles as she opens it. She flips through the pages past pictures of three rattle snakes and baby guppies until she reaches one entitled ‘The real curse of the Egyptians.

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There is a picture of a rather large lich in all his glory, skin torn and corroded, bandages rolling off him down the corridor into the beyond. Around his neck is a thick leather collar and it’s attached to a heavy chain held tight by a small wizard standing next to him. The diminutive man is dressed in dark blue robes is grinning like a fool.

“I would say one of the worst curses I researched were those of the Ancient Egyptians. The Kings and Queens created them from their most trusted servants. An undead slave, doomed to serve those who pass on,” She shudders, “In the last decade, six Liches have appeared. The last one being only a few years ago. These former living, destroy crops, stir up plagues of mosquito’s, create electrical shortages,” She frowns. “Oh sorry, I think that last one was just a bad transformer.”

“Is there any curse you wish you had?” I tap against my notebook. Curiosity brimming.

“Well there is one.” She darts a glance at Wulfar. “there’s a silence spell I’ve been eying but with my luck I’d be stuck with it.”

“Fhina,” Wulfar frowns. He has his hands to his hips, as Alpha as there ever was one. Instead of cowering as most wives of Alpha’s do, Fhina throws her head and laughs heartily.

Eager to get the interview back on track, I decide to try another tactic, “How about we try some rapid responses. Just a few simple questions, say the first thing that pops into your head? What word comes to mind when I say…biscuit?”

“Gravy.” Fhina pats her stomach, eliciting a snort from her husband.

“Little?”

“Babies.” She picks up Angel who’s now awake and yawning. She grabs her mother’s hair and pulls, eliciting a wince from Fhina.

“Pet.”

“Wulfy.” Fhina peals back her daughter’s fingers with a sly look at her husband.

Within seconds Wulfar hearty laughter is booming around the room and we’re all sharing it with him. Shaking my head, I pack up to leave this happy home, I can’t help but wonder if their curse did them more good than bad.

That was AWESOME Sheryl and I want to thank you so much for bringing Fhina and the gang to visit fundinmental.

And now – CHECK OUT the grogeous cover and be sure to enter the giveaway below.

Title: Purr-fect Mating (A Lil Genie Series Novella)

Author: Sheryl Winters

Publisher: Roane Publishing

Release Date: June 23, 2014

Keywords: Paranormal, Romance, Shifters

SYNOPSIS

On their wedding night, at the stroke of midnight, Wulfar changes into his shifted wolf form and cannot shift back. Not even to communicate with the woman he loves.

Fhina, upon waking the day after their mating, no longer recognizes her mate. Pregnant and confused, she’s convinced herself her mate has run away and left her to live alone. With his dog.

Can the cursed pair find a counter charm before Fhina gives birth? Will Wulfar be able to curb his inclination to run?

Or will their mutual curses break up their love affair before it’s really even started.

Purchase Links: They will be sent 2-3 days before release. PLEASE be on the lookout – check your spam box.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I never set out to be an author. Only a story teller. Some days I succeed better than others.

Ms. Winter’s Links: Website / Blog / Facebook/ Twitter

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Click on the cover below to get your Amazon copy of Purr-Fect Mating by Sheryl Winters.

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GIVEAWAY

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER HERE

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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.

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

A Tag Team Giveaway Event – Stunning New Cover for Apocalyptic Novel – Wormwood by D H Nevins

Posted on July 16, 2014 by fundinmental

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Welcome to my Tag Team Events!

Laura and I are the Tag Team Bloggers.

You can find Laura at fuonlyknew.

We Tag Team an author and publish our posts at the same time.

Whether it’s for a cover reveal, giveaway, review, interview, or something more, the author will be tagged by us and you will be alerted to go to Laura’s blog or mine to see additional content. It’s really fun to see how differently we view the same book and you get an extra chance to win with our giveaways!

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D H Nevins is here today to tell you how excited she is to share the new cover for Wormwood and how it came about.

Welcome, D. It is wonderful to have you here today. Take it away.

The Alternatives

It was exceedingly difficult to select my favourite cover. Every mock-up Derek created was incredible in its own right, and it would be a shame not to share them. So in all their glory, here are the other options he came up with.

The third one—the one with the wing obscuring the girl’s face—is so amazing, I’d very much like to use it as the cover for my sequel, Angel of Shadow.

What do you think?

I think it would be awesome D. I can hardly wait to get my hands on it. ^_^

A New Cover for Wormwood

First of all, before I say anything else, let me introduce Wormwood’s new cover. Oh, and before I do that, I should forewarn you that I’m a tad biased about this…

The New

This beauty took my breath away the moment I saw it. As an author, I couldn’t ask for a better representation of my work. And I’m kind of picky—so that says a lot! The image projects a mood that reflects the feel of my story so perfectly, I knew the cover artist understood Wormwood on multiple levels. But even if we’re just talking aesthetics, well, although I am most definitely biased, I think this is one fantastic-looking cover!

The Old

I originally had a different cover for Wormwood. It was a simple black and white etching by Gustave Doré, depicting a fallen angel reaching towards the heavens. The sheer turmoil apparent through the angel’s expression and pose not only fascinated me, but seemed a perfect depiction of the conflict raging through Tiamat, a half-angel in Wormwood. However, the etching–although classic–was hardly a trendy cover. The story itself was very well-received, but I found that people had trouble getting past the antiquated-looking cover in order to take a chance on reading what was within. My love for the cover, it seemed, was a lonely one!

The Cool How

About a month ago, I was contacted by cover artist extraordinaire, Derek Murphy. He had read Wormwood and subsequently offered to make up a new cover for the book—for free. Surprised, flattered and curious about the vision he had for Wormwood, I heartily agreed.

Then, as you know, the resulting cover blew my expectations out of the water! Its impact was immediate.

Why it Works

The image depicts the book genre clearly. The colour contrast is striking, which catches the eye instantly. Plus, it’s incredibly professional.

It also fits the story.

On a literal note, the protagonist is a strong female, adept with a crossbow, yet still out of her element. However, she would never admit it. I could see this in her stance. Yet the cover holds so much more than a simple literal representation of Wormwood. Derek recreated the feel of the book perfectly. The mixture of light and darkness remind me of a review Wormwood once received which, in part, said, “The lines will be blurred between good and evil, love and hate, truth and lies, and hero and antagonist.” The hazy fusion of sunlight and shadow reflect this beautifully. The unsettled, foreboding skies mirror the mood of this dark, post-apocalyptic story, and the falling feathers are a nice touch. They hint at the half-angels in the story without hitting potential readers over the head with their existence. The fact the feathers are broken and falling is also perfect, but I hesitate to say why… after all, I don’t want to spoil the most exciting parts of the book!

My Thanks

Naturally, I wouldn’t be sharing this with you if it wasn’t for Derek Murphy. His outstanding covers and unprecedented talent can be seen on his website, CreativIndie Covers. Have a look at http://bookcovers.creativindie.com/

And of course, I would like to extend a huge thanks to Sherry Fundin for her generosity in allowing me to ramble on about my new cover here on her blog. Thank you so very much, Sherry!

Thank you D. That is a fascinating story of what teamwork and the generosity of the indie and blogging world can accomplish.

Now for a little video entertainment to round off your eye candy fix.

After this fantastic trailer, which is so descriptive of the world devastation in the book, please continue reading for my review.

My 5 Star Review of Wormwood by D H Nevins

I won this book through fuonlyknew’s blog. I would like to thank Laura and D. H.Nevins for the giveaway.

Right off, the cover grabbed me. I didn’t know what to think of the title, but as you read the book, you will find out what it means.

The writing is excellent. Wormwood starts out fast and holds your attention throughout. The description of the devastation made me able to visualize the world around them. I can’t find the words to describe it myself, but D. H. did a great job of it.

The actions of Tiamat will make you question things yourself. Is God a kind, gentle person, or is he vengeful and vindictive? And what about angels?

As I was reading I kept thinking of Supernatural. I watch the reruns on TV most mornings. This book reminded a lot of how God and the Angels treated humans on the show. If you’ve watched it, you’ll know exactly what I mean. God has his own agenda and the angels will follow it, us humans are along for the ride.

The relationship between Kali and Tiamat, and Tiamat and God, was creative and complex. For me, it raises more questions than answers. I am sure most everyone has asked “Why Me?” more than once.

The biodegradable soap made me chuckle along with Kali. Tiamet was thoughtful, like when he supplied her with toiletries and clothes, but he stood away from her emotionally and physically.

The things that happened to her, could make the strongest person give in to the misery, horror, devastation, desolation, abuse………..

This is an amazing apocalytic/dystopian novel that will take you into another world. The details and descriptions enabled me to visualize the surroundings and characters as they struggle to stay alive long enough to find their destiny. Very well done and I can hardly wait to read the sequel, Angel of Shadow. Happy writing D!

SYNOPSIS

Against a devastated landscape, a legion of one hundred fierce half-angels is hell bent on purging the Earth of all humans. But one of them, the tormented Tiamat, struggles against his mission, and when he rescues a beautiful woman named Kali, he finds the attraction as troubling as it is dangerous. Can Kali trust the one creature who could be responsible for her ultimate demise?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

D.H. Nevins was born in Toronto and currently lives in a quiet area of Ontario, surrounded by forests and lakes. By day, she is a personable, friendly school teacher. By night, she silently chuckles as she writes about destroying the world. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys hiking, camping, flying around on her motorcycle or dabbling in live theatre.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

Click on the cover below to get your Amazon copy of Wormwood by D H Nevins.

GIVEAWAY

In celebration of the new cover, D H Nevins is giving away 5 ebooks of Wormwood to 5 lucky commenters. Please leave your email address and answer the question:

Which cover would you choose and why?

This is a Tag Team Event sponsored by fundinmental and fuonlyknew. For another chance to win, go HERE.

Giveaway ends July 30, 2014.

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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 The Valley of Decision by Shannon McDermott – Giveaway

Posted on July 2, 2014 by fundinmental

A themed book tour through Prism Book Tours.

It’s the Grand Finale for
The Valley of Decision
by Shannon McDermott

“A solid fantasy that wears its spirituality lightly yet effectively.”
~Kirkus Reviews (read the entire review here)

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We hope you enjoyed getting to know a little bit more about the characters and the story-book world of The Valley of Decision. Did you miss any of the stops? You can check them out below:

Colorimetry; – The Mountains, the Moors, and the Hills
If you ever travel north beyond the Black Mountains, into the kingdom of Belenus, you will find yourself in a vast and varied land, a country of laws unwritten, unspoken, and scrupulously obeyed…

Katie’s Clean Book Collection – The Trow
Deep in the mountain Anuin, the smithies of the Trow house mighty fires. Those crimson flames imbue the stony heart of the mountain with heat, fill it with a pulsing red glow like living rubies.

Bookworm Lisa – The Fays
Belenus, the master of the North, does not often leave his glittering palace or his green hills. You are not likely, even if you roam his kingdom, to ever see him…

Distractions of Grandeur – Review
“The best story element involved the Fay, an elvish race who for once felt truly alien. She went beyond current stereotypes and really brought out the danger of these beings, even those one might count as allies. There were echoes of Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, elevating the stakes and the narrative itself.”

Finding the True Fairy Tale – Interview
Which of the characters from The Valley of Decision was your favorite to write?
The main character, Keiran the Captain of the Hosts. To even attempt what he did, a person would have to be either very desperate or very confident of his own abilities. Keiran is the second, and he has an extreme self-assurance, and sometimes conceit, that I enjoyed using. He’s also bold, another fun characteristic for a writer to work with. And because he is a very able man, and has reason to be confident, his occasional conceit adds texture to his character and makes him more interesting.

I Love to Read and Review Books 🙂 – Ten Fun Things to Know About Shannon
(1) I was born in California but grew up on the East Coast.
(2) I have seven little sisters.
(3) I like sweet potatoes baked or boiled, with butter or with sugar, made into fries and made into pies. But I cannot stand them canned.

Wishful Endings – Dokrait and the Black Mountains
The Black Mountains are high and treacherous – so many sheer, soaring cliffs, so many monstrous boulders dangerously perched. Wolves teem on the mountains, spilling into the lowlands when the winters are long. Bears and the great cats prowl those hazardous slopes, too.

Kelly P’s Blog – Interview
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Pretty much. I was eight when I first decided (and declared) my ambition to write a book. Of course, it was years later when this desire to write took on the adult dimension of “This is what I want to do with my life, this is how I want to earn my living”.

Mythical Books – The Dochraitay
The Dochraitay possess the unhappy distinction of being the foremost servants of Belenus. They fight his campaigns against Alamir and the Islemen, they grow the crops and hunt the animals eaten by the Fays, they give up their children for the mines and the army and the palace of Muireach.

Brooke Blogs – Interview
2) What is your favorite part of the writing process?
When I take my scenes, written longhand in my notebook, and transcribe them into the computer, revising and polishing as I go. It’s easier than the initial writing, and I finish with a feeling of satisfaction. The scene is done! Until my editor gets her hands on it, anyway.

Coffee Books & Art – Interview
How did you come up with the title? Names?
The title comes from a Bible verse found in the Book of Joel: “Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision!” For the names, I established this pattern: of Gaelic origin, unusual enough that the names would not be common in our own world, but not too unusual. I avoided names like Ruairidh because it just looks too foreign. Who would care to guess how to pronounce it? So I ended with names like Torradan and Artek and Belenus – different, but easy enough.

Mel’s Shelves – Review
“There are lots of moving parts that came together in the end for a satisfying conclusion. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read this, and I look forward to reading more from this author!”

The Wonderings of One Person – The Alamiri
Long ago, the Alamiri tribes came from the distant sunrise lands – climbing nameless mountains, fording forgotten rivers. Their wanderings ended here, among the forests south of the Black Mountains.

The Written Adventure – Interview
3) What gave you the idea for The Valley of Decision?
The Lord of the Rings, much as it pains me to admit it. In those books, Sauron had legions of human slaves whose only purpose in the story was to fight the good guys (and get beaten). It’s not that Tolkien was heartless in his use of these characters – remember Sam witnessing one of them being killed and sadly wondering what his name was and if he even wanted to fight – but I came to think how good it would have been if Sauron’s slaves had staged a revolt. Why should all the heroes come from the free nations fighting Sauron? Why not from the enslaved nations oppressed by him?

Mommynificent; – Review
“The characters were definitely my favorite part of the book. I really enjoyed coming to understand the complexities of the three main characters, who interestingly are all male. I also really enjoyed the unfolding mystery of who the Fay are and why they are a part of this world.”

Deal Sharing Aunt – Interview
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
If there is one message in The Valley of Decision, it’s that we all have choices to make, and we can’t escape it. Not making the choice is itself a choice. My principal character, Keiran, faces the ultimate choice: Rebellion or obedience, God’s way or his? But all the characters have to choose, and their choices mean risk and sacrifice and (sometimes) reward – just as our choices do.

Platypire Reviews – Review
“Keiran, the Captain of the Hosts, was an interesting character. From the beginning of the book, I wasn’t quite sure what direction the story was going to go in, and I didn’t know what to think of him at first. As things were revealed and I got further in the story, I found myself rooting for him as a reader and enjoyed his character development.”

Letters from Annie Douglass Lima – The Northmen
In the uttermost north, beyond even the kingdom of Belenus, icy mountain peaks look down on the Coldlands. The Coldlands are not on our maps, not even the borders. The Alamiri do not venture even to Belenus’ home, let alone past it. But rumors come to us – from foreigners, adventurers, and far-travelers, brave, reckless, wild men.

My Devotional Thoughts – The Hobgoblins
One more tale? All right, my love; just one.
Long ago, the great father Athair led the first Alamiri up into the Rhugarch Pass. They were men of his clan, relatives loyal and strong. When they scaled the mountain to the Rhugarch Gap, they stopped for the night.
The men settled down to their rest; the fire sank into embers; the watchman grew drowsy. And a soft, soft pattering murmured into the camp.

Christy’s Cozy Corners – Interview
What do you hope people take away from your books?
I hope that whenever someone finishes one of my books, they feel like they’ve been on a journey and it has ended well. Every story is about a character’s struggle for something, and I hope my readers will be able to feel that in my stories and be encouraged.

The Bookish Fairy – This or That
Chocolaty or fruity candy?
Chocolaty. Hands-down, 100%, all the time.
Get out of the house or stay at home?
Stay at home.
Winter or summer?
Can I pick spring or fall? I’ll go with summer.

The Valley of Decision
by Shannon McDermott
Adult Fantasy
Paperback, 416 pages
May 31st 2014 by SALT Christian Press

Where the Black Mountains pierce the sky, they divide the south from the north, Alamir from the kingdom of Belenus. Belenus, the undying master of the north, commanded Keiran – the Captain of the Hosts – to conquer Alamir. But the Captain is deep in conspiracy, and he has his own plans.

The Valley of Decision is a fantasy novel, a saga of slavery, freedom, and choices.

Amazon; – SALT Christian Press

Shannon McDermott is a Christian author of speculative fiction, as well as a humorous detective series called “The Adventures of Christian Holmes”. She has written both fantasy and science fiction, and has yet to decide on which one to like better.

She was born to Wisconsin, expatriates in California, grew up on the East Coast, and now lives in the Midwest. Her principal hobbies are politics, history, novels, and coffee.

Website; – Blog; – Goodreads; – Facebook

GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos Tour-Wide Giveaway

– Grand Prize: $25 Amazon gift card and ebooks of The Valley of Decision and The Sunrise Windows (open INT)
– 2 print copies of The Valley of Decision (US only)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Click on the cover below to get your copy of The Valley of Decision by Shannon McDermott from amazon.

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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 at Home and let’s talk.

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

Book Blast Giveaway Tour for Primordial Dust by Sarah Daltry

Posted on June 30, 2014 by fundinmental

The cover for Primordial Dust by Sarah Daltry is gorgeous. I had to stop and really look to find all the wonderful goodies the cover contains, along with the pretty purple.

What do you think?

I would have made it bigger, if I could without taking away from it.

SYNOPSIS

A princess, trained to behave. An assassin, betrothed to her. A thief, whose eyes she dreams of at night. A kingdom at war, torn apart by the suppression of magic and truth, as well as family secrets that threaten to destroy decades of peace.

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Questions of loyalty, of morality, and of free will culminate in a fantasy novel about forging one’s own path and choosing one’s own destiny.

You can purchase Primordial Dust at the following Retailers:.

AMAZON / B&N / Smashwords / iTunes / KOBO / All Romance

About Sarah Daltry.
Website.

Sarah Daltry writes about the regular people who populate our lives. She’s written works in various genres – romance, erotica, fantasy, horror. Genre isn’t as important as telling a story about people and how their lives unfold. Sarah tends to focus on YA/NA characters but she’s been known to shake it up. Most of her stories are about relationships – romantic, familial, friendly – because love and empathy are the foundation of life. It doesn’t matter if the story is set in contemporary NY, historical Britain, or a fantasy world in the future – human beings are most interesting in the ways they interact with others. This is the principle behind all of Sarah’s stories.

Sarah has spent most of her life in school, from her BA and MA in English and writing to teaching both at the high school and college level. She also loves studying art history and really anything because learning is fun.

When Sarah isn’t writing, she tends to waste a lot of time checking Facebook for pictures of cats, shooting virtual zombies, and simply staring out the window.

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Click on the cover below to grab an Amazon copy of Primordial Dust by Sarah Daltry.

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GIVEAWAY

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3 Winners will receive an E-Copy of Primordial Dust by Sarah Daltry.
taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos 1 Winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card and Swag pack by Sarah Daltry.
1 Winner will receive a Swag Pack by Sarah Daltry.
Must be 13+ to Enter
International Giveaway

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

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Look on the right sidebar at Home and let’s talk.

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Tour for Along the Watchtower by David Litwack – Guest Post & $100 Giveaway

Posted on June 16, 2014 by fundinmental

GUEST POST by David Litwack

Welcome, David. I am so happy you were able to join us today.

Why I write speculative fiction?

I’ve always been suspicious about absolute reality. Different cultures see the world so differently. As anyone who has ever spent extended time in a hospital or a war zone knows, you’re sense of what’s real can be easily fragmented. We conveniently choose to construct a world view that suits us—at least until something challenges it. That’s the role of the writer. What better way to challenge our view of reality—and therefore enable the potential for change—than to invent new worlds and show how characters cope with them.

There’s a poem I heard long ago by Wallace Stevens:

Children picking up our bones
Will never know that these were once
As quick as foxes on the hill . . .

And least will guess that with our bones
We left much more, left what still is
The look of things, left what we felt . . .
And what we said of it became
A part of what it is . . .

Our sense of reality in many ways defines the way we live, but it’s constantly evolving. The job of the artist is to be the catalyst for changes in the way we see the world. By telling what we saw and how we felt, we can change the perception of reality and therefore how people see themselves and, ultimately, how they behave. What better way to do that than to write speculative fiction about alternate worlds.

David Litwack, author of There Comes a Prophet, Along the Watchtower, and The Daughter of the Sea and the Sky

www.davidlitwack.com

Thank you David. I hope you enjoyed your time with us.

A Tragic Warrior Lost in Two Worlds…

Author: David Litwack

Publication Date: June 13, 2013

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy (13+)

A Tragic Warrior Lost in Two Worlds…

The war in Iraq ended for Lieutenant Freddie Williams when an IED explosion left his mind and body shattered. Once he was a skilled gamer and expert in virtual warfare. Now he’s a broken warrior, emerging from a medically induced coma to discover he’s inhabiting two separate realities. The first is his waking world of pain, family trials, and remorse—and slow rehabilitation through the tender care of Becky, his physical therapist. The second is a dark fantasy realm of quests, demons, and magic that Freddie enters when he sleeps.

In his dreams he is Frederick, Prince of Stormwind, who must make sense of his horrific visions in order to save his embattled kingdom from the monstrous Horde. His only solace awaits him in the royal gardens, where the gentle words of the beautiful gardener, Rebecca, calm the storms in his soul. While in the conscious world, the severely wounded vet faces a strangely similar and equally perilous mission—a journey along a dark road haunted by demons of guilt and memory—and letting patient, loving Becky into his damaged and shuttered heart may be his only way back from Hell.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | iBooks | Kobo

The urge to write first struck when working on a newsletter at a youth encampment in the woods of northern Maine. It may have been the night when lightning flashed at sunset followed by northern lights rippling after dark. Or maybe it was the newsletter’s editor, a girl with eyes the color of the ocean. But he was inspired to write about the blurry line between reality and the fantastic.

Using two fingers and lots of white-out, he religiously typed five pages a day throughout college and well into his twenties. Then life intervened. He paused to raise two sons and pursue a career, in the process becoming a well-known entrepreneur in the software industry, founding several successful companies. When he found time again to daydream, the urge to write returned. His novels include: There Comes a Prophet, Along the Watchtower, and the newly released The Daughter of the Sea and the Sky.

David and his wife split their time between Cape Cod, Florida and anywhere else that catches their fancy. He no longer limits himself to five pages a day and is thankful every keystroke for the invention of the word processor.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

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To get your copy of Along the Watchtower or to learn more about David Litwack, click on the cover below.

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos Giveaway: A $100 Amazon/B&N Giftcard or a Book Depository shopping spree of the same value, plus two print copies of Along the Watchtower will be given away. Open Internationally. Ends 7/7.

Open Internationally. Ends 7/7. .

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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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 at Home and let’s talk.

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Portals: A Fantasy Anthology Book Blitz Giveaway

Posted on June 5, 2014 by fundinmental

Happy Book Birthday to Portals!

(Grab your copy from Amazon by clicking on the cover)

Portals

Genre: Fantasy Anthology (mixed sub genres)

Release Date: June 5, 2014

Keywords: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery, Urban Fantasy, Steampunk, Short Stories, Picture Prompt

Description

No matter what world you call home, or what your station in life, there are just some paths that weren’t meant to be tread.

Ordinary World by Laurie Treacy

Imagine a new neighbor moves next door, a creepy guy who gives fifteen year-old Amy Silva the willies? Amy wonders what the stone archway in the backyard is for. Her life becomes even more stressful when her family reveals they’re witches.

Could Amy’s new neighbor have anything to do with a local girl’s disappearance or be a threat to her magical loved ones?

Maronda’s Quest by Christy Thomas

The Grand Wizard has decreed Maronda enter the Portal of Life to embark upon a quest of great importance, but despite her Ma’s claims it is a blessing, premonitions of danger persist.

Lenox works to prove his worth to wed her, his true love, but it appears a wizard plots to remove him from Maronda’s life forever. To secure their future together, Lenox decides to accompany her on the quest, even if forbidden. He must ultimately choose between using his dragon fighting skills which could lead to his death, or give Maronda her greatest desire.

In the end, it’s Maronda who must learn to live with the consequences of his decision.

Mexmur, the Huntress by Anna Simpson

Long ago a dragonkeeper betrayed his charges. To bring back magic, to set things right, Mexmur is sent through the portal.

Can she succeed armed with only a poem, talon and blade.

Entrance of Lost Souls by Echo Shea

A guardian to the entrances between worlds, Gladys has been called to bring a little girl back from Fairyland. Passing through the Entrance of Lost Souls is no fun, neither is hunting down a deranged banshee, but what is a guardian to do?

And, is the banshee really kidnapping the girl…or saving her from something else?

Where Once were Hearts by Havva Murat

After losing both his parents, his entire fortune and his childhood sweetheart, Master Bartholomew Battlesby sets out into the wilds of Northern England to make the acquaintance of his only surviving relation, the landed recluse, Mr. Horatio Grimsby who has an eerie penchant for both tinkering and clockwork. But, on finding his relation dead, with a gaping hole in his chest, and the beautiful, but scornful, Miss Evangeline Witherop ruling in his place, Bartholomew learns there is more than one way to lose your heart.

Can Bartholomew reignite the spirit of love and mercy within Miss Witherop, or will he suffer the same fate as his poor, heartless cousin?

The Lunatic Queen by Michael Siciliano

The land of Mershinka has been thrown into perpetual night. Their King is dead and a moon witch, known as The Night Queen, rules from the royal palace in Grosnov. An endless fog shrouds the land, killing crops and starving the populace. Cold-eyed enforcers put down rebellions while volksa, twisted wolf-creatures, roam the mists looking for prey. Many have given up hope and wait for the inevitable end. All seems lost.

Two teenagers, Pavel and Tamara, devise a plan to kill Vazya the Night Queen when the moons Kainsk and Seresnya are down, end the stifling enchantment, and bring the sun back to their dying land. But, they need a watch to tell time, a compass to guide them through the mists, weapons to fight off Vazya’s minions, and all the courage they can muster.

Purchase Links

PRINT

Roane Publishing / Createspace / Amazon

Digital

Roane Publishing /Amazon / Amazon (UK) / Barnes and Noble (Coming Soon)

Kobo (Coming Soon) / Smashwords / Bookstrand

OR, click on the cover below.

Tour Schedule

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GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos

Book Blitz and Tour-wide Giveaway

Paperback copy of Portals and a $10 Amazon gift card.

Ends 7/03/2014

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code. No purchase necessary, but you must be 18 or older to enter. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter, and announced on the widget. Winner well be notified by emailed and have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Roane Publishing’s marketing department.

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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 at Home and let’s talk.

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Werewolf Natalya WILL have it all – Compelled by Shawntelle Madison

Posted on May 28, 2014 by fundinmental

Welcome to the blitz for Compelled!

I am so thrilled to share this wonderful book with you.

Compelled is the third book in the Coveted series by Shawntelle Madison.

Summary

For the past five years, Natalya Stravinsky has dreamed of two things: to rejoin the South Toms River werewolf pack and to be reunited with Thorn Grantham. Fate may have brought the pack back into her life, but unless she journeys to Russia to save Thorn, the love she’s found may be lost again. For a stubborn werewolf like Natalya, no distance is too far, no magic spell too complex to master, because one way or another she will find a way to have everything she has ever wanted.

Shawntelle Madison

Shawntelle Madison is a web developer who loves to weave words as well as code. She’d never admit it, but if asked she’d say she covets and collects source code. After losing her first summer job detassling corn, Shawntelle performed various jobs—from fast-food clerk to grunt programmer to university webmaster. Writing eccentric characters is her most favorite job of them all. On any particular day when she’s not surgically attached to her computer, she can be found watching cheesy horror movies or the latest action-packed anime. She lives in Missouri with her husband and children.

Facebook | Twitter | Website

You can get your copy of Books 1 and 2 by clicking the covers below.

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Giveaway..

a Rafflecopter giveaway..

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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 at Home and let’s talk.

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Cover Reveal for Melissa Wright’s third book in the Descendants Series, Reign of Shadows

Posted on May 18, 2014 by fundinmental

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for the third book
in the YA/NA Urban Fantasy Descendants Series:
Reign of Shadows
By Melissa Wright

Brianna can see her future, but it’s the past that haunts her. Plans laid in place centuries ago are threatening not only her and her sister, but all of the Seven Lines. As the shadows plot their way to old rule, the visions shift again. Her power has led to some hard choices—and the occasional stab wound—but this set of futures holds nothing but darkness.

Unable to bear the idea of losing the footing they’ve so recently gained, she turns the soldiers of the Seven. But with shadows hidden among the ranks, can she overcome the path they’ve set in place, or is she blindly following their lead?

THE OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES

Shifting Fate

(Descendants #2)
by Melissa Wright

According to prophecy, Brianna Drake was born to save the world. The trouble is, she doesn’t have the slightest idea how. Her visions should have given her the answer, but they’re beginning to shift, making the danger too unpredictable, even for a prophet.

If she can just help her sister restore their hidden powers, she might be able to stop what’s coming. But an old enemy returns, and he’s got plans for Brianna and her visions.

What neither of them knows is that fate has given a stranger one chance to find her. He was trained to protect the chosen—but if he fails, the future will crumble.

Shifting Fate is the second book in the Descendants Series (following Bound by Prophecy) and focuses on Brianna and Logan.

There is a teaser posted here; and the first chapter posted here;, but beware, it’s full of spoilers from the first book.

Purchase from Amazon , Barnes and Noble, and the Book Depository. Can also purchase in audio at iTunes and Audible.

Bound by Prophecy

(Descendants #1)
by Melissa Wright

Twenty-two-year-old Aern is done watching his brother destroy the only thing that matters. He never wanted to take Morgan’s place among council, never wanted to rule their hidden world. But when the key to the prophecy is found, a young girl named Brianna whom Morgan will destroy, Aern knows he has to take action.

What he really wants, is for things to go back to normal. But now he’s kidnapped a girl, and his brother’s men are after him. His only hope is to join with the Division, but they have plans of their own, and it’s the last thing Aern is willing to do.

Emily just wants her sister back. She doesn’t care about the prophecy, or realize what’s at stake. But when she goes after Aern, the truth of the matter uncoils, and Brianna isn’t the only one who’s in danger.

Suddenly, they’re at the center of a secret war, and unless they can work together, they’ll both have a sacrifice too big to make.

You can read an excerpt of Bound by Prophecy here;.

Purchase ebook for FREE on Nook; and Kindle;. Can also purchase from the Book Depository, and in audio at Amazon;, iTunes;, and Audible.com.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melissa Wright is the author of the Frey Saga and the new Descendants series. Melissa spends her time working on novels, but when not writing she can be found on Goodreads and Pinterest.

Website – Blog – Goodread – Twitter – Pinterest – Google+

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taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos GIVEAWAY

$25 Amazon Gift Card
Open internationally.
Ends May 25th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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To get your copy of Book I or Book II of the Descendant Series, or to learn more about Melissa Wright, click on the cover below.

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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 at Home and let’s talk.

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Friday 56 #10 – Cairn Rodrigues sends The Last Prospector on a Treasure Hunt

Posted on May 16, 2014 by fundinmental

The Friday 56 hosted by Freda’s Voice.

The only rules are to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your eReader and find any sentence, or a few (no spoilers) that grabs you and post it.

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The Last Prospector by Cairn Rodrigues

I won a signed paperback copy from Masquerade Crew.

(Page 56 in paperback)

So when the torch started dipping that very first time over the eastern edge of the land and the sky began to darken ominously,no one knew if the light would ever come back.

The creatures panicked as they has never been cold before, never before been blind. But just before the torch disappeared completely, something amazing happened.

SYNOPSIS

Solstice is a world apart, created by a mysterious Boss and shaped by tempers of warring twin goddesses. Once it was a playground for sisters Ylumya and Ynoirya, but then the wars began. Now Solstice is the stage for the final battle between light and dark. Everyone must choose a side. The Boss sired the first prospector 1,000 years ago. Charged to search for a treasure unnamed, an unbroken line of men have been caretakers, shepherds and warriors for Solstice since the misty times. Now, Grayme Ceruleya is the last prospector, he is destined to find the treasure. But what happens to Solstice when he does? A runaway slave dies giving birth alone in the desert. The nomads who find the baby don’t realize that the child is the pawn of the gods and wields more power than they can comprehend. Except for one boy, broken-hearted Tonyo who makes a tremendous sacrifice to ensure the baby’s safety. In Solstice the unlikely is probable, magicks are mundane and all the stories are true. It’s a land of stunning natural beauty, filled with exotic wildlife and vibrant cultures. Powerful factions like the whore’s guild make the rules, ancient enemies find new strength and dreamers are waking up all across the land with one message. The Final war between the Twins has started. A victor must be decided this time.