Monday 30 January 2012

Birthright - Willow Cross



Birthright - Willow Cross

About the book:
Throughout the ages, druids have passed down a prophecy from one generation to the next. A girl, born of a witch clan, will become vampyre and spark a war that will divide the vampire nation. This young woman will either save humanity from vampire reign, or be the end of it. Although she’s never heard the prophecy, and doesn’t believe in witchcraft, Liz Markum is that woman. 

Working with her maker, Michael, and the remaining members of the warring Vampire Council, Liz must defeat the darkness inside her, and learn to become more than a killer vampire. She must become a vampire killer.

5/5

My Review
This book is a great paranormal read, but unlike other reads in this genre it comes with a twist, that is not normally expected. I loved this from the very first chapter, with amazing characters that have depth and soul, to the well written story-line what else could an avid book reader be looking for. Liz is a feisty alpha female that knows what she wants, and she knows how to get it by following the path of good in an normally evil society, injecting new life, thoughts and feeling into everything she does. Her depth and emotion know no bounds leaving the reader taking the emotional journey with her. Then there is Michael a lovable character with his own opinions and pig pigheadedness, that is so well written you will be sucked into their world, not wanting to leave even when you have finished the book. I can recommend this to readers that love paranormal, but may not want the usual topics. Although this book covers lots of species and mythological creatures they are not always as you expect them to be. I will be heading off in search of the second book Inheritance to read that as i really did not want to leave these characters, i want to know where they are going and what is going to happen next. I am sold on these and while the author keeps writing i am surely going to keep reading, all credit to the author for yet another magical world    that i can get lost in.

Monday 23 January 2012

Guardian - Gillian Joy




Guardian - Gillian Joy 

About the book:
Headstrong and determined, Hannah always knew that she would become the Guardian. She was the keeper and the protector of all supernatural beings. What she didn't expect was that it would mean she would have to endure the agonising death of her mother first hand as their supernatural connection brings her to her knees, or that it would mean that she could never be with the man she loved. 
Blond haired, blue eyed Gabriel was her handsome childhood friend, but would circumstances prevent her from ever being able to explore her true feelings for him? 
Jesse, the dark alluring but incorrigible vampire would give anything to be with her, but as the guardian Hannah is forbidden to fall in love with the supernatural. 
With her life in turmoil over her conflicting emotions about Gabriel and Jesse and her frustration at being unable to exact revenge for her mother’s horrific death, Hannah flees her life in an attempt to start over. But can we ever really escape from ourselves? 
There is no escaping destiny no matter how hard she might try and Hannah must learn to reconcile her commitment to her family with her responsibility as the Guardian and her duty to her heart.
5/5

My Review
First i would like to say this book was Amazing ! It was so good that i ended up staying up all night to read it in one go, i can not praise Gillian enough for this amazing book. I was hooked from the very first word finding myself drawn deeper and deeper into the captivating world of Hannah. Hannah is a well written deep rooted character with such an endearing lovable quality that everyone can fall in love with, she is strong willed, enigmatic and full of character. Gabriel is just as lovable both with his unwavering commitment to Gillian, as well as his depth of love and understanding, then we are also presented with the eccentric character of Bernard the lovable grandfather figure with his little quirks, and his in depth knowledge of all things witch craft. The story-line itself is fast paced, captivating and well written. All aspects of the story-line are covered in such depth that you really feel you are there feeling everything each individual character does with true emotion, leaving you laughing, crying and cheering along with the characters as they go through life's changes and the changes in the world around them. The relationships between the characters are believable and well written with love, laughter and tantrums all portrayed as real life as they could be. I would recommend this to any Young adult or reader who loves paranormal stories, and i can not wait for the next book it can't get here soon enough for me. All credit goes to Gillian and the tangled webs that she weaves withing this book, i don't know how to thank her enough for releasing this book out into the wild for everyone to enjoy. All i can say is go get yourself a copy you will not be disappointed.

This is not forgiveness - Celia Rees



This is not forgiveness - Celia Rees

About the book:
Everyone says that Caro is bad ...but Jamie can't help himself. He thinks of her night and day and can't believe that she wants to be his girlfriend. Gorgeous, impulsive and unconventional, she is totally different to all the other girls he knows. His sister, Martha, hates her. Jamie doesn't know why, but there's no way he's going to take any notice of her warnings to stay away from Caro. But as Jamie falls deeper and deeper under her spell, he realises there is more to Caro - much more. There are the times when she disappears and doesn't get in touch, the small scars on her wrists, her talk about revolutions and taking action, not to mention the rumours he hears about the other men in her life. And then always in the background there is Rob, Jamie's older brother, back from Afghanistan and traumatised after having his leg smashed to bits there. Jamie wants to help him, but Rob seems to be living in a world of his own and is increasingly difficult to reach. With Caro, the summer should have been perfect ...but that isn't how things work out in real life, and Jamie is going to find out the hard way. This taut psychological drama is the brilliant new novel from acclaimed Celia Rees.

4/5

Review:

I was lucky enough to get an arc of this book for review, and i must say i really did enjoy the story-line although i found the first part of the book to be confusing and hard to read, but once i got past those i found the book compelling and interesting. The story-line captivated me growing with the book, always giving something new and interesting to read. I found it hard to put down the book, not wanting to remove myself from being immersed in Jamie and Caro's world. I found the characters captivating and multi layered, with something new to find out all the way through the book. The story-line is action packed and at such a pace that you ae always interested in continuing to read. The only thing i would say is that the start of the book kind of took away the ending for me, and when the end did come it seemed to just end with no real round up to the whole thing. That said i would recommend this book to people who love reading this genre, i would also suggest it to someone wanting something different from their normal reads, as i found this a really good book and will be looking at more of Celia's work.

Crescendo -



Crescendo - Becca Fitzpatrick

About the book:
Nora Grey's life is still far from perfect. Surviving an attempt on her life wasn't pleasant, but at least she got a guardian angel out of it: a mysterious, magnetic, gorgeous guardian angel. But, despite his role in her life, Patch has been acting anything but angelic. He's more elusive than ever and even worse, he's started spending time with Nora's arch-enemy, Marcie Millar. 

Nora would have hardly noticed Scott Parnell, an old family friend who has moved back to town, if Patch hadnt been acting so distant. Even with Scott's totally infuriating attitude Nora finds herself drawn to him - despite her lingering feeling that he's hiding something. 

Haunted by images of her murdered father, and questioning whether her nephilim bloodline has anything to do with his death, Nora puts herself increasingly in dangerous situations as she desperately searches for answers. But maybe some things are better left buried, because the truth could destroy everything - and everyone - she trusts.

5/5

Review:
I loved this book it is a great second book to the series. With Nora's character growing and learning all the time. I loved the story-line, it was well written and enticing to follow Nora and Patch through new and trying times. The twists and turns in this story-line make it the compelling read that it is, with action, adventure and romance this series is a must read for young adults that love the paranormal genre. The interaction between Nora and Patch is believable and endearing although trying at times they always seem to be drawn together no matter what is thrown their way, and i for one can not wait to read the next installment to see where their relationship is going to next. 

Blue Sky Days - Marie Landry



Blue Sky Days - Marie Landry

About the book:
A year after graduating from high school, nineteen-year-old Emma Ward feels lost. She has spent most of her life trying to please her frigid, miserable mother - studying hard, getting good grades, avoiding the whole teenage rebellion thing - and now she feels she has no identity beyond that. Because she spent so many years working hard and planning every moment of her life, she doesn't have any friends, has never had a boyfriend, and basically doesn't know who she is or what she really wants from life. Working two part-time jobs to save money for college hasn't helped her make decisions about her future, so she decides it's time for a change. She leaves home to live with her free-spirited, slightly eccentric Aunt Daisy in a small town that makes Emma feel like she's stepped back in time. 

When Emma meets Nicholas Shaw, everything changes - he's unlike anyone she's ever met before, the kind of man she didn't even know existed in the 21st century. Carefree and spirited like Daisy, Nicholas teaches Emma to appreciate life, the beauty around her, and to just let go and live. Between Daisy and Nicholas, Emma feels like she belongs somewhere for the first time in her life, and realizes that you don't always need a plan - sometimes life steers you where you're meant to be. 

Life is wonderful, an endless string of blue sky days, until Nicholas is diagnosed with cancer, and life changes once again for Emma in ways she never thought possible. Now it's time for her to help Nicholas the way he's helped her. Emma will have to use her new-found strength, and discover along the way if love really is enough to get you through.

5/5

I will admit i haven't read a lot of this genre recently, but this book is amazing. This book follows Emma through her voyage of self discovery after she realizes she is not happy with the way her life is now, so in order to try and discover what she needs to do, and who she really is she moves in with her aunt. When Emma moves away from home she can never plan for what she is about to discover about herself. Emma finds that her life of solitude back home was not worth the outcomes she gained. Living with her aunt she finds that she makes amazing friends, an amazing boyfriend and most of all that she is loved by a whole new family of people. After a great summer with family and friends Emma's whole world is turned upside down when the love of her life is diagnosed with cancer. Both Emma and Nicolas are in for a rough time, but will their love for one another be enough to get through everything and come out of the other-side stronger and more in love than ever.
From the very first page this book grabs you and draws you in, keeping you captivated with the characters as they go through the trials of love, life and self discovery. Emma is an amazing character so well written and so endearing that you can not help to be swept along and pulled in to her world, all the time feeling like you are there with her. The whole cast of characters are amazing in their own rights all bringing emotions, love and zest for life with them. The was the cancer story line is written i is thought provoking, emotional and captivating. I know the whole thing made me cry, laugh and feel good as i was going through the story. I cant say enough good things about this book so when it is released Jan next year go get a copy and read it im sure you will love it. One final word obviously is that all credit goes to the author for creating such a book that really makes you believe that love can get you through anything.

Depths of Darkness - Laurie Bowler



The Depths of Darkness - Laurie Bowler

About the book:
Patty is a low level worker for The Agency, an organisation of witches that controls the world of the supernatural. Patty grew up an orphan with normal human parents, but when her powers as a witch emerged she was drawn to, and joined, The Agency.
When her friend and mentor, the high witch Matace, is murdered, Patty is unsatisfied with the reports of his death and begins her own investigation. With the aid of Luke, her vampire friend, Patty delves deeper into the dangerous circumstances behind Matace’s death and finds more than she bargained for, the truth behind her own past.
As the dangers deepen and the truth behind Patty’s past are revealed, it becomes clear that the fate of the world is at stake and Patty may be the only one that can prevent the world’s destruction, but at what cost. 

5/5

Review:
I loved this book from start to finish. Patty is as amazing character, bringing the story-line to life as we follow her through the most testing time of her life. The characters depth of emotion and strength really come to the forefront. The story-line is well written drawing you into Patty's world and holding you there, making you follow along with her as she struggles to come to terms with everything that is happening around her. I loved the relationship between Patty sand Luke really buying into the reality that they face, having big decisions to make not only within their lives but in the changing world around them. This is a well written, and engaging book with the added paranormal world brought to life making the reader want more, and want to find out what is going to happen next, and how it is all going to end for everyone involved. I would recommend this book to lovers of paranormal with a twist of suspense and romance all thrown in for good measure. All credit goes to the author for a captivating and engaging read.

Friday 20 January 2012

Madison Daniel Interview

Welcome Madison Daniel

Today i have the great pleasure of hosting the amazing author of Ember Madison Daniel.
Here's Madison's Bio just to keep y'all waiting that little bit longer:

Bio for Madison Daniel:

Music is LIFE and the written word is our SOUL. Music and writing have been my true ambition since I was a child. I have used music in every form possible; writing it, performing it, healing with it, etc. I call it my "life's soundtrack." I have always written in some form, from comic books to screenplays to short stories and now the new series "Ember." I have spent my writing life inspired by all the music of the universe, 80's movies and eye candy. When not writing I enjoy dreaming out loud, challenging the real world and inspiring the ones I love. I have found a true passion for my stories and characters and am eager to share them with the world. 


So lets get to the good part i know y'all can't wait for the interview so here it is:

Welcome Madison First i want to thank you on behalf of not only the amazing readers out there, but also on my behalf. So let's get down to what the readers really want to know.

Jenny: As most readers know you are re releasing Ember back out into the world again. How does it feel this time? Is it new and exciting?

MD: It feels amazing! Having my manuscript picked up by Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing has lit a fire within the Ember universe. Smoking hot new cover, fresh edit and fantastic new merchandise! 2012 is going to be an inferno!

Jenny: From the Ember series which is your favorite character? and why?

MD: The main protagonist, Max Valentine. He has so many little nuances from my life that it has to be him! Though, my fav character to write is Asia Michaels..... she's just so darn moody!

Jenny: Is there a favorite genre of books that you love to read and write?

MD: Horror or suspense (Stephen King addict) but lately YA/Paranormal seems to have the most creative and future rockstars emerging.

Jenny: If you could send a letter of advice to your younger self what would it say? and why?

MD: Settle down, don't stress, enjoy the ride, trust your heart and dream out loud! Oh yeah....invest in Google.

Jenny: What is your inspiration/muse while you are writing?

MD: Music! Music! Music! I live it, breathe it and write it! Music is life. Period.

Jenny: What do you do in your down time?

MD: I. JUST. WANT. TO. DANCE.

Jenny: So Madison as the viewers want to know everything about you, here are some fun questions for you to answer.

Jenny: What is your favorite fruit? and why?

MD: Pineapple! Because of the spikes! It's the most deadly of fruit!

Jenny: If i looked in your fridge now what would i find?

MD: Left over Chinese food, Coke and a drawer full of fruit.

Jenny: What 3 things could you not live without?

MD: Music, eye drops and family. (Not necessarily in that order!)

Jenny: What songs do you sing to in the shower?

MD: Depends on my mood BUT usually some form of "hair metal" Just giving the peeps what they want :)

Jenny: Chocolate or Vanilla?

MD: Va! Nil! La!

Jenny: Cream or Ice-cream?                                                       

MD: Ice-cream....though, I have to be in the mood for it....

Jenny: What drink could you not live without?

MD: H2o.

Jenny: Why's a Raven like a writing desk?

MD: Ahhhh.....this question makes me Mad as a Hatter! 

I have one final question to throw in the mix, i mentioned to an author friend of mine (she knows who she is) that i was going to interview you, and her burning question was..........

When did you get sooooooooooooooooo Hawt?                                                

MD: I think it was a Wednesday... Ha!

I think that concludes my questions for today, many thanks for doing this interview.

MD: Thank you! I hope we can do it again soon. Read on! Rock on! M.

I would love to do this with you again soon i know there are many more followers wanting to get to know you. Even if it is in my very own Madcap way. 

So y'all we want to know all about this great book so here goes.


Blurb for "Ember" by Madison Daniel:
Love never dies...but it can kill.

Ember is the story of Max Valentine, a teenager with secret abilities and many inner demons. His life revolves around music and his love for it. When his father dies he seeks answers with his last living relative, his fathers brother Frank. Frank lives on the island of Maui and eagerly takes Max in as his own. Max soon learns that healing his past will be more difficult than he could have ever believed. 

Max's temper and indecision will send in motion events that will cost him dearly. He will test the limits of his powers and the new relationship with his protective uncle. He will gain a powerful love and lose another. Blood will be on his hands, forcing him to run away from what he wants the most...a new start.

"Ember" releases March 16th 2012 from Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing.  It will be available in ebook and print format from Amazon.  :)

And below you will find all the links to stalk (I mean follow) Nah who am i kidding go stalk him, he loves it :D 








CRUSHING HEARTS AND BLACK BUTTERFLY PUBLISHING: http://www.crushingheartsandblackbutterfly.com/welcome.html

That's all i have for y'all so please go say your thanks to Madison, tell him i sent you and how much y'all love him. 

Wednesday 18 January 2012

Gastien Pt 2



Gatien Pt 2 - Caddy Rowland 

Reviewed on behalf of Bookaholics Book club 

About the book: 

I am Gastien Beauchamp, artist and lover. Any Frenchman would tell you that a peasant could never own property in nineteenth century France. Yet here I am, in my very own studio. 
The personal cost was horrendous. I barely survived the choices I made, and my sanity was pushed to its limits.
Still, I finally now have security, peace, and freedom. For the rest of my life I can spend time “making love to the colour”, making love to beautiful women, and enjoying the wild nightlife of bohemian Montmartre. What more could a man need or want?
Then, one night, I see her. One look at Sophie, and my heart wants to betray me! I try to tell myself that I know better. Who needs love, anyway? I am already married-to my art! 
No woman would ever understand and accept my lifestyle; nor am I about to give that lifestyle up! Not when I paid so dearly for it. Besides, I am too badly damaged to ever open up my heart…

My Review: 
4/5 

This book definitely continues on from the first book in the series.
Gastien continues to grow into an adult, with many challenges being presented both personally and in his art work. I love that Gastien continues to grow making him such a loveable character that at time you empathize with him, but at others you detest him just as much. 
The author continues with the amazing story of Gastien being an artist in 19th century France, bringing to life the struggles that artist's faced when they started out. I found that I was even more captivated by Gastien and all the other characters in this book than I was in the first. I was so engrossed in everything going on that I read the whole book in a day, laughing, crying and feeling compassion for all of the characters especially Gastien himself. I must admit throughout this whole book I found that I experienced every emotion there was and I was emotionally drained by the end, but emotionally drained in a good way.
Again the author helpfully gave a glossary at the front of the book with all the French translations to both words used in the first book as well as new words and phrases used within this book. She managed to integrate both languages so well that most of the time you did not notice that both French and English were being used.
I would definitely love to continue on in this series and read book three, in order to find out how everything pans out for the rest of the characters. Although I can’t giveaway why, as I wouldn’t want to spoil the ending for those adults out there that want to discover Gastien and his travels through 18th Century France.

Gastien pt1



Gastien Pt 1 - Caddy Rowland

Reviewed on behalf of Bookaholics Book club

About the book:

Stunningly handsome Gastien has two dreams that burn relentlessly inside of him. First, he wants to become a great artist. Nineteenth century France is a hotbed of new ideas in art; unfortunately, naïve young men, hoping to achieve impossible dreams, die in the gutters of Paris every day. 
Gastien also wants to become a great lover. That will not be so difficult. So far, nineteenth century women can only dream of a man who cares if he actually satisfies them! 
He has no training, no money, and no connections. And, he is a virgin…so far. 
What does he have? Raw, natural talent, a willingness to learn, and a face and body no woman will be able to resist. He vows to stop at nothing to make his dreams come true. 
Gastien Beauchamp, Paris is yours for the taking. 
Sometimes, the "impossible" is possible. But the cost can be extremely high.

My Review:
4/5

First I will say this is definitely a book for adult readers, with lots to keep the adult reader entertained with explicit sex scenes, violence and adult topics.
The character of Gastien in this book is intriguing, and with him being very different from the rest of his family, causing many problems as he is growing up. Following Gastien through his life you find that as you learn more about his character you grow to love and live the life that he does. The life lessons learned as you follow Gastien though all of his troubles are well wrote and believable.
The background story in this book is amazing and really brings to life Gastien’s life as he grew up in France in the 19th century when everything is very different to living life today in France. I found that the use of French terms was an amazing asset and well thought out by the author, really bringing you into the story, as well as adding that little extra, and I found that this really did make the book more enjoyable. 
The author has helpfully put a full glossary at the front of the book with all the French terms and what they mean, as well as added the translation in the book at the first point it is used, so I would recommend reading this book even if the French within it would normally put you off it is definitely worth reading.
I found that I was absorbed into this book from the very first chapter, loving and feeling along with the characters. It is a testament to the author that the storyline flows so well, with well placed and in depth sex scenes that are not for the faint hearted. There are also many other adult topics that are covered within this book that are well wrote and really compelling to read. In all I really enjoyed the flow and story within this book following along with the life lessons learned. I will be heading over to the next instalment of this book very soon to find out what else life has in store for Gastien as he goes through his life.

The House of Sherbet - Simon Dale



The House of Sherbet - Simon Dale 

About the book:
Thirteen year old Jake spends Christmas with his parents at the Oakhouse, the once grand, now decrepit home to his grandfather. Jake quickly begins to realize that the Oakhouse and Granddad Sherbet are not all they seem. On Christmas Eve, Jake's parents disappear, only to reappear six inches tall and having been turned to wood. ??Granddad Sherbet, together with his octogenarian friends, prepares to steal Jake's youth and nascent magical powers.

3/5

This book is about 13 year old Jake, with his family the all go to stay and his granddad’s for Christmas. It just so happens that it is the worse weather ever to be travelling in. When Jake and his family get the old oak house, Jake quickly realizes everything is not as it seems to be. When Jake goes out sledging on Christmas eve, he returns to find his parents missing only to then discover that they have reappeared as 6” wooden carvings. Then Jakes granddad and his friends prepare to use Jake as a sacrifice to gain his magical powers. Jake is left to run for his life, with the help of friends both new and old. Will they manage to thwart their plans only time will tell…….

I did find this book hard to get into at the start, but as it went on it did get better. Following Jake through all the problems that he encounters became interesting. With the relationships both new and old forming and re forming as the story continued. The wood carvings were an especially good touch to the storyline that gave the story a little more depth and intrigue

I loved the whole idea of the storyline, although it did start a little slow for me. I loved the character of Jake as a whole and can see that he is going to grow and mature throughout the series.

Overall I gave this book a 3/5 mainly because although I loved the idea of the storyline it was a little slow for me. I feel that young adults that are looking for something new and different should definitely check out this book. I really think this series has got plenty of room to grow and mature as the characters within do the same. 

Love at first sight - Vincent Zandri




Love at first sight - Vincent Zandri

About the book: 
A young U.S. Army officer who’s served in Afghanistan finds himself suffering from intermittent bouts of “hysterical” temporary blindness due to impossible and deadly orders he was forced to obey by high command in the field. When he’s reunited with his fiancée in a military hospital in Germany after being separated for more than year, the couple are encouraged by doctors to travel to Venice, Italy together. There, amongst the canals and the cafes, they try to rekindle their love and fight off their personal demons while trying to comprehend the enormity of the heartbreaking role they now must play in love and war.

3/5

This is a short story, and i found that i really enjoyed the read with believable well defined characters that have a sense of purpose. The subject matter is current and engaging, with the struggles being well written and believable. I loved the depth of the story as well as the subject matter. In all a really good short read that i would recommend to anyone wanting a little incite into the lives of military personnel post in combat injury. 


Monday 16 January 2012

Compulsion - Mason blog post




I am honored to be able to have the amazing Compulsion again on my blog. For you today i have the one and only Mason Shaw here just for y'all to enjoy, so i am going to hand you over to Mason. 

Hello. I'm Mason Shaw.  One of the characters in the hot new book "Compulsion" written by Kymberlee Burks-Miller.  I've been asked to talk about why Kymberlee became a writer.  The answer is simple really.   She didn't have a choice in the matter.  Lily and I, the love of my life; we know how good our story is.  The love between a witch and a vampire.  The huge family of hers that make up her coven.  The others that help us throughout our adventure.  The evil we confront from start to finish.  And the ever changing roles they play make for a challenging environment for two people so in love to find time together.  We know after all we've gone through, and will yet experience that it must be shared, and Kymberlee was the obvious choice  because not only has she been writing non stop since she was a child.  Always carrying a notebook, and favorite pen around.  Always jotting down ideas randomly coming into her head.  And being so open to influences of characters like us who have just as strong a will to be heard as she does; we just didn't give her a moments peace until she gave in to write our story.  Oh boy.  It wasn't easy.  Being so O.C.D. as she is, and stubborn we hounded her for years.  She had no intention of putting herself in the public eye giving that she's also very shy.  Oh, she'll stand up for what she believes in.  And she'll tell it like it is.  No holds bars.  But to be under constant scruitiny was not and still isn't in her make up.  Cause she's just Kym.  And she can only be herself whether people like it, or not.  So, we had to convince her to write our story for those who may like it.  Not for those who won't.  And she had to set herself up for writing.  She insisted on doing it right.  On doing the very best job she could.  So, nothing went beyond the notebook, and pen until her husband Bryce dutifully fulfilled her wishes for creating a peaceful writing environment in the house where she could hear all of us speak without listening to the telly, kid, dog, or bird going off  A place of solitude with her own desk, and pens, and paper, and laptop.  Laptop for the modern day ya know.  Everythings e-mailed, and on line now a days. So, he turned the bedroom into her own little bat cave as she now calls it.  And, she'll go in there for months at a time shutting the world out, and writing what we tell her.  She works for us now.  Now that she's our own personal outlet we're not giving her up.  The marriage will survive.  They've  been together for thirteen years.  We have alot to get out.  And, we're just getting started.  If you've liked "Compulsion" you won't believe what comes next in " Conversion.  So, I guess the simple answer of why Kym became a writer is: We made her!
See you all on our next adventure,
M

I hope y'all loved hearing from Mason i know i did and don't forget to check out Compulsion and Kymberlee Burks-Miller here are the facebook links 



Thursday 12 January 2012

Gamers - Thomas K Carpenter



Gamers - Thomas K Carpenter 

About the book:
Two points for brushing your teeth. Ten points for keeping your room tidy. Seventy-two points for the Bioeconomic Game Design pop quiz on the ride to school in your personal FunCar. Another thirty for making every hurdle in gym class. 

Life is a game, unless you're not the one winning.

When Gabby DeCorte, top student and reality-hacker extraordinaire, learns the truth about LifeGame, she must choose between winning and what she believes in. 

3/5

My Review:

I must admit i loved the idea behind the story, and as a whole this is a very good book to read.  This book is definitely aimed towards the gamer, with lots of gamer language. The character of Gabby is well rounded and lovable, although she does have her personality traits. I found that i really wanted to get to know more about her as i was going through the book. I loved the frags they were my favorite part of the book, with their lovable charm and different characters i can't wait to see where they go in the next book.  The story as a whole was well written and engaging, with everything that a reader needs to be catapulted into Gabby's world. As a whole i think this book will definitely appeal to the young adult market especially those with a gamer background. If you are looking for something a bit different to read here it is it is well worth checking out. I can't wait to see where the next book in the series is going to go so all credit goes to the author for making me want to read more of this story.  

Saving Bobby - Crystal Cattabriga




Saving Bobby - Crystal Cattabriga

About the book:
When Bobby's world came crashing down on his thirteenth birthday he knew his life would never be the same again. After losing most of his family before ever becoming a teenager. Bobby was determined not to lose the only person who had truly loved him and was always there for him; his mom. Struggling with the fear of losing his mother to cancer Bobby takes it upon himself running away in search for a way to save her. Along Bobby's journey, he meets Annie, a 'runaway.' Together, they embark on a road where they both find a friendship that will last forever and the true meaning of God. Will Bobby save his mother in time and will Annie go back to the life she had? Experience this journey with Bobby and Annie and feel the power of true determination, and what God can do if you just let him into your heart....

4/5

My Review:
I had the honor of being sent this book from the author, and i must admit although i do not read much of this genre i was hooked from the first chapter. The character of Bobby is really well written, in-depth and very realistic. I loved the story as a whole feeling along with Bobby, both his ups and his downs as he goes through the toughest part of his life so far. The story-line and the emotions within this book are so well written, you believe that this could happen not only to you but to anyone you know, the book sells love courage and belief, not only in yourself but in others. There are a couple of twists and turns in the book they may come as unexpected for some readers, but again they are well written into the book and really you couldn't want much more. I loved everything about the book from the messages it gives to the realism in dealing with cancer, and what it can do to families. If you are looking for a book with a message and enjoy reading stories that are parallel to real life then i would recommend getting a copy of this, i believe that you will love it. Many thanks to Crystal for giving me the opportunity to read this book i can't wait to see what else she has up her sleeve.

Here are some links if you would like to visit Crystal for yourself:



Tuesday 10 January 2012

Compulsion Blog Tour Excerpt



Today i am pleased to announce that as part of the re release of Compulsion by Kymberlee Burks-Miller, i am hosting her here not once but twice. Today y'all get the privilege of seeing the new cover even though i know we all love the old one just as much. So here goes with the cover y'all have been waiting to see. 






So now for an excerpt from the book just to tease you all, and i know you will want to go out and get it.


Mason was going to attack me!  I froze.  I had never seen his teeth protrude from his mouth that way.  He actually looked like a vampire.  Damn it!  He was almost on top of me when my mind started working again.  He’s a vampire!  I flung my hand up at him screaming, “Fire!” and the element flew at him like a flamethrower.   I spun around running for the porch, and almost tripped on the step.  I caught myself on the railing and saw him, now out of the corner of my eye, coming at me again!  What the hell is wrong with him!  I threw my other hand up crying for all of the elements.  “Air, Fire, Water and Earth!”  The elements came from all four directions like a vortex.  Unbearably strong wind spun around him, fire raced around the next layer of my protection, followed by water that enclosed the flames and lastly the ground started to break open shaking horrifically inside of the cyclone of power that was holding him there.  He was fighting my power.  
“Goddess Help me!” I screamed as I frantically searched for a piece of wood, nothing!  I could hear that my family now realised something was not right and were coming to help!  Mason had broken free of the elements and had forcefully grabbed me from the porch throwing me on the ground.  I didn’t hit as hard as I should have.  I heard the terror in my covens’ voices as they ran from the house toward us and knew that my life would end right here and now on the already too warm grass.  I looked into the merciless eyes of this vampire as he smiled at me bringing those fangs to my neck.  I waited to feel the pain of his sharp teeth puncturing my flesh, hearing my family screaming at Mason to stop!  They didn’t know how to fight him off of me.

So here's where y'all can get yourselves your very own copy:  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/100967

Of course y'all are going to want to find her on facebook so here's the link's for the author page : http://www.facebook.com/KymberleeBurksMillerAuthor

Compulsion very own facebook page: 


I have read and reviewed this book it is amazing so go check out the review here: http://madsheepno1.blogspot.com/2011/12/compulsion-kymberlee-burks-miller.html

Many thanks for reading, go and show the amazing Kymberlee some love and come back next week for another extra special blog post that i know y'all will love. 

Thursday 5 January 2012

Crave - J R Ward


Crave - J R Ward



About the book:
The battle between good and evil has left the future of humanity in the hands of a reluctant saviour and his band of fallen angels. Seven deadly sins that must be righted. Seven souls that must be saved. While his first task was success, Jim Heron is battling a demon that can take any form for the soul of someone he must identify on his own. If that weren't enough, his old boss Matthias wants Jim to assassinate an AWOL member of The Firm - Isaac, the man Jim is pretty sure he is supposed to save. Jim knows first hand that once you're in The Firm, there's no getting out. But when Jim finds Isaac to warn him, he has been picked up by the police for illegal street fighting, and it is clear that Isaac is falling for his gorgeous public defender. Is their love the redemption that will save Isaac's soul? Or has the demon Devina set an elaborate trap?


5/5


This book is the second in the Fallen Angel series, and i must say it continues on well from the first. Jim is a well written, well rounded character that has many good points but also has his flaws as with everyone in real life. The story line continues to capture the reader and draw them into His world, believing that the choices he makes are the choices that he would make if he were to be human. I love the action scenes, they are well thought out and well choreographed making the reader feel everything that is going on. As always JR Ward has done a great job with this book with realistic sex scenes, and topics of an adult nature that will always keep you captivated and wanting to read more. I loved this book and will be continuing on with the series to find out how Jim is going to deal with the rest of the sins that he has to master. 

Guest Reviews

I thought i would just write a small post with all the books i have reviewed on other blogs. As not only have i been reviewing here i have been guest posting at Moonlight Gleam's Bookshelf's blog, as well as Bookaholics. So what i thought i would do is share the links with you all so you can go check them out.

Moonlight Gleam's Bookshelf:

The Crystal Warrior: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-crystal-warrior-by-mike.html
Tempest Holly Hook: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/11/guest-review-tempest-by-holly-hook.html
Better than 8 (adult content): http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-better-than-8-fantasy-by.html
Drowning in the Dark: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/08/guest-review-drowning-in-dark-by.html
A Soul Less Broken: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/11/guest-review-soul-less-broken-by-helene.html
My Sparkling Misfortune: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/08/guest-review-my-sparkling-misfortune-by.html
Being: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-being-by-tr-mousner.html
Transparent Lovers: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-transparent-lovers-by.html
October Girls: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-october-girls-by-scott.html
Shimmerspell: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-shimmerspell-by-kimberly.html
Limerick:http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/09/guest-review-limerick-faerie-tale-girl.html
Divine Intervention:  http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/12/guest-review-divine-intervention-by.html
Panjandrum: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/12/guest-review-panjandrum-by-jj-telly.html
Raven: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/11/guest-review-raven-by-suzy-turner.html
Wild Child: http://www.moonlightgleam.com/2011/08/guest-review-wild-child-by-mike-wells.html


Bookaholics:

The Lens and The Looker: http://bookaholicsbkcl.blogspot.com/2011/11/lens-and-looker-review-by-jenny-needham.html
The Bronze and the Brimstone: http://bookaholicsbkcl.blogspot.com/2011/12/bronze-and-brimstone-review-by-jenny.html

I'm sure there may be a few more hanging around and i will add them as i find them, i hope you all enjoy reading these reviews and of course supporting these 2 great blogs