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?

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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

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

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To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

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Cover Reveal & Giveaway – The Ripple Effect Romance Novella Series

Posted on October 1, 2013 by fundinmental

The Ripple Effect Romance Novella Series

Enjoy this exciting new series of clean novellas by six critically-acclaimed authors.

“Like a pebble tossed into calm water, a simple act can ripple outward and have a far-reaching effect on those we meet, perhaps setting a life on a different course—one filled with excitement, adventure, and sometimes even love.”

Book 1: Home Matters by Julie N. Ford

Book 2: Silver Linings by Kaylee Baldwin

Book 3: Righting A Wrong by Rachael Anderson

Book 4: Lost and Found by Karey White

Book 5: Second Chances 101 by Donna K. Weaver

Book 6: Immersed in Love by Jennifer Griffith

Home Matters by Julie N. Ford

According to her mother, Olivia Pembroke was born to be a star. But how is she supposed to be famous when she can’t even get a decent acting gig? Her lucky break comes when she lands an audition for a wildly popular home improvement show. Even though she has no design training and has never even held a power tool, she refuses to let that stop her. She’s confident that her destiny is finally within reach.

When her affections are torn between her heartthrob co-host and the irritating, yet somehow endearing lead contractor, does she continue to reach for the stars? Or does she design a new happily ever after? One that leads not to the fading lights of fame and fortune, but to a love that will burn forever.

Silver Linings by Kaylee Baldwin

Drew Westfall wants nothing more than to forget what he had to do in the name of “smart” business. Cutting off all ties with his parents—including handing over the entire contents of his trust fund to a charity—he takes off for Bridger, Colorado where his best friend has an extra room for him. It doesn’t take long for him to realize that his business degree won’t do him much good in a town as small as Bridger, but he’s broke and has nowhere else to go.

Eden Torresi has every reason to wallow. Not only did she lose her mother, but she had to drop out of nursing school and is in a relationship with a guy unwilling to commit. But Eden isn’t the wallowing type. Instead, she chooses to spend most of her time taking care of the seniors at Silver Linings Nursing home. When she learns that her boyfriend’s new roommate is down on his luck, her caring nature makes her want to reach out to him and offer what help she can. But the more time they spend together, the more complicated things get, especially when the seniors of Silver Linings decide to play matchmaker.

Righting a Wrong by Rachael Anderson

Seven years ago, Cambri Blaine fled her small hometown of Bridger, Colorado after her senior year ended in a fiasco. Only Jace Sutton knew the real reason why—that she was a spineless coward. Now, seven years later, her father’s been in an accident and needs help, and Cambr has no choice but to return home. So with trepidation, she takes a leave of absence from the landscape architecture firm where she works and boards a plane, hoping against hope that Jace is no longer around and that the past can stay where it belongs—in the past.

If only life worked that way.

Jace never expected to see Cambri again. After she’d led him on, bruised his heart, and left town without a backward glance, he was forced to pick up the pieces and try not to hate her for it. Eventually, he put it behind him and moved on, creating a life for himself in his beloved hometown. But now that Cambri is back and looking more beautiful and sophisticated than ever, some of those old feelings resurface, and Jake instinctively knows, for the sake of his heart, that he needs to avoid her at all costs.

If only it were that easy.

Lost and Found by Karey White

Lydia was supposed to have an adventurous and exciting summer. Instead she’s done nothing more than read and eat takeout. Now it’s time to go home, and what does she have to show for it? A big fat nothing. Unless, of course, her trip to the airport somehow turns into something more than just a flight home.

Blake feels like he’s been sent on a wild goose chase. While work is piling up back in Denver, he’s on the other side of the country, hunting for some mysterious box that his grandfather left him. Well, no more. Nothing inside that box could possibly be more important than the opportunity to make it as the youngest partner at his firm. So he’s going home, and that’s that. But that’s before he discovers his flight has been cancelled.

When these two strangers meet at the airport, they make a split-second decision to search for the box together. Maybe with both of them on the hunt, Lydia can have her adventure and Blake can find the box. And maybe, if they’re lucky, they’ll even find some romance.

Second Chances 101 by Donna K. Weaver

Thirty seven year old Francie Davis, a recent widow and empty nester, gets to attend college at last. She’s sure her luck has changed when she also lands a job on campus that will pay her tuition, as administrative assistant to a history professor. When her handsome new boss yells at her on the first day of work, Francie worries she will never be good enough.

For Professor Alex Diederik, life is going downhill fast. Not only is his bitter ex-wife trying to poison their only daughter against him, but now his one place of solace—his work environment—is being complicated by his attractive new administrative assistant. She drives home his feelings of failure as a husband and father, and Alex wonders if hiring her was the right thing to do.

Francie will have to put aside her hurt and insecurities or risk her dreams, while Alex must look outside himself if he’s to mend the breach with his daughter. And, perhaps, find someone who can help heal his pain.

Immersed in Love by Jennifer Griffith

Lisette Pannebaker speaks five languages and has a brilliant business plan—personal language immersion. Clients can hire her to shadow them and speak all day in any language they need to learn for business or travel—whatever.

But there’s a major hitch: she’s far too pretty. Clients with less than honorable intentions sign up just have Lisette at their side. Solution? A make-under. Way under.It works like a charm. None of her male clients show her the least bit of interest.

Until… Erik.

Erik Gunnarsson is charming, kind, and smart—everything she’s ever looked for. Even though he seems to have a secret and she swore she’d never date a client, Lisette is tempted to shed her disguise—even if it means jeopardizing her career.

Giveaway Details

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

To enter scroll down to the Rafflecopter.

Ends 10/31/13

Bloggers who put up a spotlight post about these books on their blog can enter to win an additional $25 gift card or paypal cash. See details in the Rafflecopter.

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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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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WINNER! of The Thief Redeemer by Leigh Clary Abdou

Posted on September 30, 2013 by fundinmental

My favorite time of any giveaway is announcing the winner. So without further ado, the winner of The Thief Redeemer by Leigh Clary Abdou is:

Anda

Congratulations Anda and I wish you Happy Reading!

Thanks to all of you for the wonderful comments. I hope you will continue to follow fundinmental.

To see the Giveaway post, go HERE.

To pick up you copy from Amazon, 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 and let’s talk.

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Release Day Blitz – Broken Dolls by BR Kingsolver

Posted on September 30, 2013 by fundinmental

Add To Goodreads

Broken Dolls

BR Kingsolver

Genre: Urban Fantasy / Paranormal Suspense

ISBN: 9781301813568 (ePub)

Number of pages: 235

Word Count: 79,600

Cover Artist: Mia Darien

SYNOPSIS

Private investigator RB Kendrick makes her living nailing cheating spouses, digging up other dirt to help in a divorce, finding long-lost relatives, and occasionally sniffing out criminal activity and fraud.

When she takes a job to find a missing girl, she has no idea she is headed for the most dangerous case of her career. Usually, her ability to read minds gives her an edge. But when the people she’s hunting are also telepaths, that advantage is limited.

The search takes her into the dark underbelly of telepathic society, where anything, and anyone, is for sale. She discovers that telepathic women and girls are being trafficked as the ultimate sex slaves.

With people trying to kill her, she’s on the run, not knowing who she can trust. Will she find the missing girl, or become a victim herself?

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EXCERPT

I walked into the restaurant to meet my prospective client, scanned the diners and slipped into the booth with her. She started to say something, then her eyes widened and nothing came out of her open mouth.

“Mrs. Sanders? I’m RB Kendrick,” I said, extending my hand.

“Oh, my,” she breathed. “The description you gave me is wholly inadequate.” She stared at me for a minute, then said, “Copper.”

Confused, I looked around. There weren’t any police in there. “Huh?” I said intelligently.

“Your hair. It’s not ginger, it’s like polished copper. It shines.”

Women notice different things than men. As I suspected from our conversation on the phone, Sylvia Sanders was a norm and so was her husband. What I read in her mind matched what she told me verbally. It’s so much easier when clients tell you the truth. I understood why she had suspicions about her husband. The changes in his behavior and schedule screamed other woman to me also.

“So what do you want, Mrs. Sanders? A report, photos, a confrontation? A basic report of what and who he is or is not doing will run a thousand pounds. Photos catching them in the act are another thousand, if I can get them. Unlike the telly, most people don’t conveniently provide evidence in front of windows with the shades open. If you want to confront him in the act, I’ll accompany you for an additional fifteen hundred pounds.”

She blanched at my rates.

“If what he’s doing isn’t obvious, and I have to put him under surveillance for an extended period, my rates are five thousand a week.”

“I don’t think that will be necessary,” she said with a quiver in her voice. She gave me a thousand and I wrote down all the pertinent information.

“I’ll check on it this afternoon. I’m going to be out of town for a few days,” I told her. “If I don’t find anything by tomorrow morning, I’ll call you when I get back.”

“Thank you, Miss Kendrick. This has been going on for several months. I don’t think it’s going to change.”

“Mrs. Sanders, you need to think about what you’re going to do if your suspicions are correct. Are you going to confront him and hope he ends it? Or do you plan to divorce him? It’s something you should decide before hand.”

“I want a divorce,” she said. “I know he’s cheating on me. He called a little while ago and told me he had to work late this evening.”

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I made silver and turquoise jewelry for almost a decade, ended up in nursing school, then took a master’s in business. Along the way I worked in construction, as a newspaper editor, a teacher, and somehow found a career working with computers.

I love the outdoors, especially the Rocky Mountains. I’ve skied since high school, with one broken leg and one torn ACL to show for it. I’ve hiked and camped all my life. I love to travel. I’ve seen a lot of Russia and Mexico, not enough of England. Amsterdam is amazing, and the Romanian Alps are breathtaking. I was in Paris and Iceland this summer.

I have a very significant other, two cats and two Basset Hounds. I’m currently living in Baltimore, nine blocks from the harbor, but still own a home in New Mexico.

To follow BR Kingsolver, check out the links below.

http://brkingsolver.com/

http://brkingsolver.com/author-s-blog

https://twitter.com/BRKINGSOLVER

https://www.facebook.com/brkingsolver

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5823296.B_R_Kingsolver

http://amazon.com/author/brkingsolver

To get your copy of a BR Kingsolver book, simply 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?

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A MUST READ Flash! Friday Prompt from Aria Glazki

Posted on September 29, 2013 by fundinmental

Aria Glazki blew me away with her Flash! Friday Prompt. I had to share it with you. Please comment and let Aria know what the story said to you. To learn more about Aria, she would love to have you visit Aria Glaki’s blog.

Flash! Friday: Prompt #43

Flash! Friday is upon us! Almost at the deadline, but here is this week’s story: 150 words, +/- 5 on this photo:

Teaching Abroad

Throwing children out of windows isn’t normal. At the height of their trajectory, they float for a heartbeat in the air. Orange light paints over their skin. It’s almost beautiful, but it isn’t normal.

Some of the older kids understand, and they all fight our holds instinctively in fear. But we’re stronger, and we’re determined. Their wiggling and crying cannot slow us down.

Screams tear through me, but I don’t even pause.

“I hate heights,” the little boy in my arms whispers.

“Close your eyes,” I can’t help whispering back.

The second he does, I clench my jaw and toss. His arms flail as he flies. Fourteen.

I pray the hands outside will catch him.

We search the smoky room for any small bodies left behind. The flames lick at my feet through the remaining patches of floor.

This isn’t what I signed up for.

(145 words)

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To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

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New Release Giveaway – On Best Behavior by Jennifer Lane

Posted on September 28, 2013 by fundinmental

The final book in the Conduct Series has released! The Russian Mafia is alive and well in Chicago, Illinois. Read the excerpt below and enter the giveaway!

On Best Behavior by Jennifer Lane and Omnific Publishing

SYNOPSIS

Planning a wedding is never easy—especially when the Russian Mafia wants you dead.
On Best Behavior—the third and final book in The Conduct Series—finds our favorite couple moving forward, despite the odds. Following a pardon by the Governor of Illinois, ex-cons Sophie Taylor and Grant Madsen are finally free to pursue their love and the life that lies ahead for them. Grant now fights the forces that have hurt his loved ones by working undercover for the FBI, and he has infiltrated the Russian Mafia in Chicago. Sophie dives into swimming with Grant’s nephew, Ben, and into her career as a psychology professor. Thankfully, now it’s Ben’s turn to heal through therapy sessions with Dr. Hunter Hayes.

With so many things going right for Grant and Sophie, it’s too bad the Russians aren’t their only threat. When Grant’s father, Enzo Barberi, discovers his own son thwarted his plan to break out of prison, his overdeveloped sense of vengeance flares to life. As Sophie scrambles to save her fiancé, it’s impossible to say who will kill Grant first—the Russians or his Italian family. Can love triumph over evil? Are hard work and a pledge to be on best behavior ever enough?

Once again, author Jennifer Lane brings a harrowing tale of romantic suspense with a psychological twist, and it’s sure to leave readers breathless.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

People fascinate the psychologist/author (psycho author) known as Jennifer Lane. Her therapy clients talk to her all day long about their dreams and secrets, and her characters tell her their stories at night. Jen delights in peeling away the layers to scrutinize their psyches and emotions. But please rest assured, dear reader, she isn’t psychoanalyzing you right now. She’s already got too many voices in her head!

Stories of redemption interest Jen the most, especially the healing power of love. She is the author of The Conduct Series—-romantic suspense for adult readers—-and recently completed the third and final installment: On Best Behavior. Streamline is her first foray into writing for young and new adults, but she’s found this sort of writing even more fun. A former college swimmer, Jen was able to put a lot of her own experiences into this book.

Whether writing or reading, Jen loves stories that make her laugh and cry. In her spare time she enjoys exercising, attending book club, and hanging out with her sisters and their families in Chicago and Hilton Head.

Website | Facebook | Twitter

GIVEAWAY

Jennifer Lane is offering for the Giveaway, 2 signed print copies (US/Canada Only) and 10 ebooks (International, all formats available) of On Best Behavior

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To grab a copy of Jennifer Lane’s books, simply 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 and let’s talk.

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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…

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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

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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

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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!

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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

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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.

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The Illustration of Goddess Tithe by Anne Elisabeth Stengl Giveaway

Posted on September 25, 2013 by fundinmental

The cover of goddess tithe by Anne Elisabeth Stengl caught my eye, so I wanted to share it with you. I love that Anne chose to share her illustrations with us. Be sure to enter the awesome Giveaway at the end of the post.

Title: Goddess Tithe

Author: Anne Elisabeth Stengl

Series: Tales of Goldstone Wood

Expected Release Date: November 12, 2013

Publisher: Rooglewood Press

Page Count: 130 pages

The Vengeful Goddess Demands Her Tithe

When a stowaway is discovered aboard the merchant ship Kulap Kanya, Munny, a cabin boy on his first voyage, knows what must be done. All stowaways are sacrificed to Risafeth, the evil goddess of the sea. Such is her right, and the Kulap Kanya‘s only hope to return safely home.

Yet, to the horror of his crew, Captain Sunan vows to protect the stowaway, a foreigner in clown’s garb. A curse falls upon the ship and all who sail with her, for Risafeth will stop at nothing to claim her tithe.

Will Munny find the courage to trust his captain and to protect the strange clown who has become his friend?

Goodreads * Blog Page

You can learn more about Goddess Tithe, which novel it’s connected to and read Chapter 1, here:

Intro to Illustration:

There are eight full-page illustrations in Goddess Tithe featuring various characters and events from the story. This is the first one in the book. I decided to share it with all of you since it depicts my young hero, Munny the cabin boy, under the watchful eye of his mentor, the old sailor Tu Pich. Munny is on his first voyage, and he is determined to learn all there is to know about a life at sea as quickly as possible. Thus we see him utterly
intent upon the knot he is learning to tie. Tu Pich is old enough to know that no sailor will ever learn all there is to know about the sea. Thus he looks on, grave, caring, and perhaps a little sad. He might be looking upon his own younger self of many years ago, fumbling
through the hundreds of difficult knots his fingers must learn to tie with unconscious ease.

I enjoyed creating all the illustrations for Goddess Tithe, but this one was my favorite. I love the contrasts of light and dark, the contrasts of young and old . . . youthful intensity versus the perspective of age.

Anne Elisabeth Stengl makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a kindle of kitties, and one long-suffering dog. When she’s not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and practices piano, painting, and pastry baking. She studied illustration at Grace College and English literature at Campbell University. She is the author of the Tales of Goldstone Wood, including Heartless, Veiled Rose, Moonblood, Starflower, and Dragonwitch. Heartless and Veiled Rose have each been honored with a Christy Award, and Starflower was voted winner of the 2013 Clive StaplesAward.

Facebook * Twitter * Website/Blog * Goodreads

The Goldstone Wood Series:

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GIVEAWAY

Anne Elisabeth is offering two proof copies of Goddess Tithe as prizes! (U.S. and Canada only). Click on the highlighted a Rafflecopter giveaway to enter.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal Blitz by Prism

To pick up your copy of Anne Elisabeth Stengl’s book, 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 and let’s talk.

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GEVBT – Death of a Schoolgirl by Joanna Campbell Slan – My Review and Two Giveaways

Posted on September 25, 2013 by fundinmental

Death of a Schoolgirl
By Joanna Campbell Slan

Book Details:
Death of a Schoolgirl
(The Jane Eyre Chronicles)
First in Series
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade (August 7, 2012)
Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

SYNOPSIS

In her classic tale, Charlotte Brontë introduced readers to the strong-willed and intelligent Jane Eyre. Picking up where Brontë left off, Jane’s life has settled into a comfortable pattern: She and her beloved Edward Rochester are married and have an infant son. But Jane soon finds herself in the midst of new challenges and threats to those she loves…

Jane can’t help but fret when a letter arrives from Adèle Varens—Rochester’s ward, currently at boarding school—warning that the girl’s life is in jeopardy. Although it means leaving her young son and invalid husband, and despite never having been to a city of any size, Jane feels strongly compelled to go to London to ensure Adèle’s safety.

But almost from the beginning, Jane’s travels don’t go as planned—she is knocked about and robbed, and no one believes that the plain, unassuming Jane could indeed be the wife of a gentleman; even the school superintendent takes her for an errant new teacher. But most shocking to Jane is the discovery that Adèle’s schoolmate has recently passed away under very suspicious circumstances, yet no one appears overly concerned. Taking advantage of the situation, Jane decides to pose as the missing instructor—and soon uncovers several unsavory secrets, which may very well make her the killer’s next target…

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MY REVIEW OF DEATH OF A SCHOOLGIRL BY JOANNA CAMPBELL SLAN

Death of a Schoolgirl picks up where Jane Eyre left off. She is now a wife, mother and private investigator.

The age old story – she was Adele’s governess and married Rochester, the master of the manor.

Jane received a letter from Adele and became worried by the tone of the letter. She decided she must go to her and find out what was wrong.

Rochester’s first wife, Bertha, had died when she burnt down his house. He was permanently disabled because of it. He was almost blind and had only one hand. Due to medical complications, he was unable to travel, so Jane would be traveling alone.

Jane gets to Adele’s school and is greeted by a Death of a Schoolgirl.

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I was immediately attracted to the gothic feel of the cover.

Death of a Schoolgirl has no flash, but is full of fast paced action. No breath holding, edge of the seat suspense, but a very nice mystery that is not easily solved.

The great writing had lots of detail that kept me fully involved. Sometimes period books can be hard to read, but this wasn’t. Death of a Schoolgirl has a touch of the paranormal. Someone is watching over Jane, helping her help the girls.

Jane is strong and confident. Women had their place but not her. She did not accept the hypocrisy and caste system of her times. Has anything really changed?

Jane could reproduce, with pencil and paper, whatever she saw. She had an analytical mind and was a great observer, so becoming a private investigator was no stretch for her. She had empathy for those less fortunate than her.

I loved her stand up attitude. She would not allow the hypocrisy and snobbishness of the many to affect her decisions..

Alderton House, the boarding school, is a dumping ground for many unwanted children. The workers are either tyrants or meek and afraid.

“Her embrace sent me moaning in pain.”

“Oh dear, and I finally have a sister and I broke her already!”

I laughed out loud. I think this quote is priceless.

I enjoyed Death of a Schoolgirl and would like to read more.

I received a signed, first edition paperback for review from the author. My opinions are my own. She included some wonderful goodies and I would like to thank her for the awesome package.

4 STARS – Would Highly Recommend To Others

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning and National Bestselling author Joanna Campbell Slan is the creator of the Kiki Lowenstein Mysteries (an Agatha Award Finalist) and The Jane Eyre Chronicles (Winner of the 2013 Daphne du Maurier Award). This fall will see the debut of the Cara Mia Delgatto books, a new mystery series set on the Treasure Coast of Florida, featuring a young woman who runs a recycling/repurposing shop. In her past life, Joanna was a television talk show host, an adjunct professor of public relations, a sought-after motivational speaker, and a corporate speechwriter. She is the mother of Michael Slan, a professional poker player, and she is married to David Slan, CEO of Steinway Piano Gallery-DC. The Slans and their two dogs make their home on ******* Island, Florida. Visit Joanna’s website at www.JoannaSlan.com

Website l Blog l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads:

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON B&N Book World Book Depository Powell’s Books

MY GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos Joanna Campbell Slan is offering 1 print book. Easy entry. Just leave a comment with your email and answer the question:

What does the cover say to you?

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TOUR-WIDE GIVEAWAY

She also is offering a grand prize that she says she will “mail it anywhere!”

“Le Plus Grande Prize (ha-ha!) will be a Lowood Institution Lacrosse sweatshirt, a “Being yourself is the key” pencil case, a Jane Eyre mug, and a small Jane Eyre quotations journal.”

To enter, click on a Rafflecopter giveaway link below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

September 15 – A Year of Jubilee Reviews Review & Giveaway

September 16 – Must Read Faster Review

September 17 – Griperang’s Bookmarks Review & Giveaway

September 18 – Chloe Gets A Clue Interview & Giveaway

September 19 – A Blue Million Books Guest Post

September 20 – My Devotional Thoughts Review & Giveaway

September 23 – Books-n-Kisses Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

September 24 – Mochas, Mysteries and More Guest Post & Giveaway

September 25 – fundinmental Review & Giveaway

September 26 – Melina’s Book Blog Review & Guest Post

September 27 – Cozy Up With Kathy Review & Interview

September 28 – Brooke Blogs Review & Guest Post

September 29 – THE SELF-TAUGHT COOK Review

September 30 – rantin’ ravin’ and reading Review, Interview & Giveaway

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Joanna Campbell Slan is a prolific writer. To grab a copy of Death of a Schoolgirl, or be taken to her books to see what else she has to offer, click on the cover below.
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