Awesome Postcard from Adi Alsaid

So on Adi Alsaid's website he had an awesome invitation that while he was on his travels, he was planning on picking up some postcards to send out to people.   So I figured what the hell, and asked if he would send to Australia, and I'm so stoked that he said yes.  So in my email I asked if he could write about 'The Travelling Suitcase'.  Yesterday I checked the mail and lo and behold my 'travelling postcard' turned up.

Thank you heaps and here is the story Adi Alsaid wrote on there.

'The suitcase loaded itself onto the belt and hoped its humans wouldn't be mishandled on their way to the seated cargo area.  It had brought two humans with it - perhaps excessive for a weekend trip, but the hotel had plenty of space for them, so why not?  An overstuffed blue bag took its place next to the suitcase and so it closed its zipper, slept through the flight and dreamed of beaches.'

Thank you heaps!  I loved it!

P.S. Adi Alsaid is the author of Somewhere Over the Sun.  This book is worth checking out ;)

Shadowcry by Jenna Burtenshaw Book Trailer

Waiting on Wednesday (62)

Waiting on Wednesday was brought to you by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!



I love the sound of There is No Dog by Meg Rosoff.  Not released until the 1st of August this year, this is definitely one I can't wait to read!

Synopsis
What if God were a feckless teenage boy named Bob?

You can't leave Bob to run the planet on his own.'
'He is God.'
'He's not much of a God.'

In the beginning, Bob created the heaven and the earth and the beasts of the field and the creatures of the sea, and twenty-five million other species (including lots of fanciable girls).
But mostly he prefers eating junk food and leaving his dirty clothes in a mouldering heap at the side of his bed.

When Bob plays with mortals, millions die. And every time he falls in love, earth erupts in natural disasters. So humankind is going to be very sorry indeed he ever ran into a beautiful, completely irresistible girl called Lucy . . .

Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz

Title:  Spellbound

Author:  Cara Lynn Shultz

Genre:  Young Adult

Publisher:  Harlequin Teen  

Publication Date:  28 June 2011

ISBN:  9780373210305  

Stand alone or series:  Stand Alone 

Pages:  344 pages 

Book Received from:  Netgalley (Galley)

First Lines:  It's always embarrassing to have someone take you to school.  Your dad, your mom, anyone with their hair in rollers.

Synopsis:
What's a girl to do when meeting The One means she's cursed to die a horrible death?
Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.
But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.

My Thoughts:
After seeing so many other blogs featuring Spellbound I finally jumped onto NetGalley and requested it!  If so many book bloggers wanted to read it then it must be good, right?

Alot seems to happen in the first fifteen or so pages.  Emma moves in with her Aunt, she starts a new school and already makes an impression on the popular girl.  So first day seemed to be going well right.  Then enters Brendan.  From description alone I could imagine how spunky this character would be but the amazing thing is how hot and cold towards Emma he is.  I'll admit right now it was frustrating.  It's explained later on why, but at the beginning you can't help but think he was either just being nice or stringing her along which is like OUCH! lol

Out of all the characters I absolutely loved Angelique. She seems to be this book's version of Eve (from Morganville Vamps) but add in the witchery.  She was a great character and one that I would have loved to read a bit more about, but since this story is inherently about Emma and Brendan, fingers crossed there is another with Angelique ;)  Please? lol

Spellbound was a fantastic and captivating read.  Albeit maybe a few frustrating spots at the beginning I was hooked in regardless and wanted more!  

This book is for those who love their HEA'S!

Amaretto Flame by Sammie Spencer

Title:  Amaretto Flame

Author:  Sammie Spencer

Genre:  Paranormal Romance/Young Adult      

Publication Date:  24 March 2011 

Stand alone or series:  Book 1 in Eagleton Coven series 

Pages: 270

Book Received from:  Sammie Spencer (Author)

First Lines: I was angry. I was so angry that I felt as though my body could burst open withthat anger.

Synopsis: 


When Olivia Landry screams, people die. No wonder she's been shunned by humans her whole life. When Olivia makes a huge mistake, she's banished for a summer to a human town; forced to live as one of them. She's out for revenge when she discovers the humans are different than she imagined, especially the rugged, sexy guitarist, Jackson Vance.

Pretending to be human isn't as hard as she thought it would be...until the witch hunters attack. Now Olivia must somehow protect herself, her family, and her new human friends. There's a problem with that. When you go around screaming, people are bound to learn your secret. Can love really conquer anything?

My Thoughts:
Amaretto Flame is the first book in the Eagleton Coven series and I've got to say I will be waiting eagerly for the next book in this series!


Sammie Spencer has created a fantastic and diverse cast of characters and ones I was easily able to fall in love with.  Olivia, the main character in Amaretto Flame is a strong and stubborn character yet quite sheltered and I definitely enjoyed reading from her point of view.  When she is sent away I instantly fell in love with her and was amused at her rebellious attitude when it came to taking the job at the bar.  I could definitely relate to that and almost see myself doing the same thing if put in that position lol.


Jackson Vance, enough said!  He was the yummy and mysterious character that shows up and takes your breath away.  I loved him right from the beginning and looked forward to every time Olivia encounters him.  Everett is another favourite too.  I really liked how Sammie gave each wish a gift that somehow went with their personality, although Olivia's was kinda scary lol.
I thoroughly enjoyed the main story and sub plots.  There's a wide variety that Amaretto Flame offers readers including the quite obvious paranormal side, dash here and there of romance and action where needed ;) and this I think is where Sammie Spencer's writing shines.


A definite recommended read for those of you that enjoy a good paranormal romance.  Oh and I loved the very ending of the story!

Fave Line:  'She looked so amazing when she said it that I almost wanted to get lost with her, whatever that meant.' - Page 130

In My Mailbox (67)

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created byThe Story Siren..

For Review: 

The Magic of Lavendar by Cate Masters

Counter Camouflage by Bojan Miladnovic

Bought/Won:

Rosalee Station by Mandy Magro (Won)

Red Glove by Holly Black 

4(Book 2 in the Curse Workers series)

So what did you get in your IMM??

Ultraviolet by R.J Anderson

Title:  Ultraviolet

Author:  R.J. Anderson

Genre:  Young Adult/Paranormal/SciFi

Publisher:  Lerner Publishing Group

Publication Date: 1st September 2011

ISBN:  9780761379478

Stand alone or series: Stand Alone

Pages: 314 

Book Received from:  Net Galley (Galley)

First Lines: Once upon a time there was a girl who was special.

Synopsis:

Once upon a time there was a girl who was special.
This is not her story.
Unless you count the part where I killed her.

Sixteen-year-old Alison has been sectioned in a mental institute for teens, having murdered the most perfect and popular girl at school. But the case is a mystery: no body has been found, and Alison's condition is proving difficult to diagnose. Alison herself can't explain what happened: one minute she was fighting with Tori -- the next she disintegrated. Into nothing. But that's impossible. Right?

My Thoughts:

Like many other books I've reviewed, I came across this one while surfing through my Google Reader and after reading the synopsis I was so drawn in to see where the story would go that I requested it.

The one thing that I didn't really like was the cover. Sure the font for Ultraviolet is pretty cool but the rest of it is well.. bland. I would have thought after reading this that there would be more colour. But oh well.

Apart from the cover gripe I really enjoyed this story from start to finish and from early on, (from reading other books etc) I picked up on her supposed condition/illness before it was revealed and liked how it was weaved throughout the book. I was amazed with the way R.J. Anderson handled the condition but it also showed how easily something like that could be overlooked and mistakenly diagnosed.

I was thrown by a few of the twists and turns throughout the story, and I can definitely say I never seen it coming! I will warn you though, there is one twist that may throw readers off as it happens about 3/4 through the book. I didn't see it coming and I can imagine it would turn some readers off the book if they weren't prepared.

I don't want to say too much else as this book is better if you go in blind but I do know that it may not be the sort of book for everyone. A thumbs up for me! One book I found hard to put down.

The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein and Andrew Jacobson

Title: The Familiars

Author:  Adam Jay Epstein and Andrew Jacobson

Genre:  Children/Fantasy/Middle Grade

Publisher:  Harper Collins  

Publication Date:  7th September 2010 

ISBN:  9780061961083

Stand alone or series: Series?

Pages:  360 pages 

Book Received from:  Bought

First Lines: It all started with Aldwyn's whiskers beginning to tingle - the way they always did when he got hungry.

Synopsis:

Running fast to save his life, Aldwyn ducks into an unusual pet store.  Moments later Jack, a young wizard in training, comes in to choose a magical animal to be his familiar.  Aldwyn's always been clever.  But magical? Jack thinks so - and Aldwyn is happy to play along.
He just has to convince the other familiars - the know-it-all blue jay Skylar and the friendly tree frog Gilbert - that he's the powerful cat he claims to be.
Then the unthinkable happens.  Jack and two other young wizards are captured by the evil queen of Vastia.
On a thrilling quest to save their loyals, the familiars face dangerous foes, unearth a shocking centuries-old secret, and discover a destiny that will change Vastia forever.  Their magical adventure - an irresistible blend of real heart, edge-of-your-seat action, and laugh-out-loud humour - is an unforgettable celebration of fantasy and friendship.

My Thoughts:

I had seen The Familiars on one of the other book blogs quite a while ago and absolutely loved the cover!  And even though it look like it was aimed at around middle grade I desperately wanted to get my hands on it.

The story is told by Aldwyn an alley cat in Bridgetower who happens to stop in at a fishmonger's place one too many times.  Aldwyn, on the run ducks into a pet shop to hide in plain sight and that's where his story really begins.

Even though I'm 26 years old I thoroughly enjoyed this story.  Aldwyn, Gilbert and Skylar make the odd group up but are willing to watch each others backs to help save their loyals and embark on an almost impossible adventure to do so.


While this is not your airy fairy kind of story where nothing bad happens, the authors have done a brilliant job of stating matter of factly what happens, and then moving on.  For example, 'Aldwyn could hear his scream as he fell to a most certain death.  This was enough to snap Aldwyn and Skylar out of the ....'  Well you see what I mean.


Fave Line:  "No, we were a small family. There were just 62 of us." lol" Page 162

Waiting on Wednesday (61)

Waiting on Wednesday was brought to you by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!


I can't wait to get my hands on Legend by Marie Lu.  I've seen this pop into so many IMM in the last couple of weeks that I'm SOO jealous ;).  This one isn't out until 29th November 2011 so keep your eyes peeled!

Synopsis (Goodreads)

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.

And of course, I had to include Alaska by Sue Saliba.  This one is out in a few days.  27th of June 2011!!  Just look how pretty the cover is!!  The synopsis sounds real good.  

Synopsis (Penguin)

mia's heart made a sound that no one heard except for mia
late one night when she woke from dreams into darkness.
ethan was asleep beside her, and em was a forest away.
outside it was night and dark and alaska.the sky was upside down.


When Mia follows her sister halfway across the world to Alaska, she discovers that love can be found in the most unexpected and beautiful of places. But can Mia find the courage to follow her heart in Alaska? And what if the one you love is not all that you wish them to be?


A lyrical new novel from the winner of the 2009 Victorian Premier's Literary Award for Young Adult Fiction with Something in the World Called Love.

The Summoner by Layton Green

Title:  The Summoner

Author:  Layton Green

Genre:  Mystery/Suspense (supernatural elements)

Publisher:  GryphonWorks  

Publication Date:  8th December 2010 

Stand alone or series:  Stand Alone 

Pages:  301 

Book Received from:  Author - Layton Green

First Lines:  The only thing Dominic Grey knew for certain about the disappearance of William Addison was that it was the strangest case to which he had ever been assigned.

Synopsis:

A United States diplomat disappears in front of hundreds of onlookers while attending a religious ceremony in the bushveld of Zimbabwe.

Dominic Grey, Diplomatic Security special agent, product of a violent childhood and a worn passport, is assigned to investigate. Aiding the investigation is Professor Viktor Radek, religious phenomenologist and expert on cults, and Nya Mashumba, the local government liaison.

What Grey uncovers is a terrifying cult older than Western civilization, the harsh underbelly of a country in despair, a demagogic priest seemingly able to perform impossibilities, and the identity of the newest target.

Himself. 

My Thoughts:

The Summoner is the first book in the Dominic Grey series and one that has definitely given me the heebee jeebees! I work with a lady who has moved from South Africa a few years ago and on a number of occasions we have spoken about the good and bad as well as the downright scary things that happen every day over there, juju being the most talked about lol. That was one reason I was interested in this and the synopsis itself won me over.

The story is told by Dominic Grey a diplomatic security agent who is brought in to work with a liason officer, Nya, and professor of religious cults, Victor, to investigate the disappearance of Addison. Addison disappears in the middle of a Yoruba ceremony without a trace sparking an investigation into the Ambassador's friends disappearance.

I was really drawn in from the beginning of this story and loved the cool, sceptical main character Grey. I think Grey was a good choice out of the three characters in telling this story as a lot of us out there would fit under the sceptical group. Nya comes across as quite closed off in the beginning but she lets her guard down slowly when she opens up to Grey. Viktor is in a group all of his own. His morbid curiosity in everything tied in with the cult made him interesting as a character if maybe a little on the wacky side too. If you know what I mean.

The story itself had me in suspense all the way through. The deeper Grey, Nya and Viktor dig, the more of Zimbabwe is revealed. From Club Lucky, to a ceremony in the middle of nowhere and the ancient ruins, Layton Green does a brilliant job of creating a vivid setting without overdoing the description and slowing the story pace.

If you're after a suspense filled story with both supernatural and religious undertones this one is for you. Don't let the religious aspect put you off though, it makes the story that more interesting!

This review was originally posted on the Book Lovers Inc website!

In My Mailbox (66)

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

For Review:

Evermore by Alyson Noel
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel
Shadowland by Alyson Noel
Dark Flame by Alyson Noel
Night Star by Alyson Noel
Everlasting by Alyson Noel
The Egyption by Layton Green

Thank you to both Pan Macmillan and Layton Green for providing copies of these books for me to read and review!

Bought:

Songs for a Teenage Nomad by Kim Culbertson
The Book of Regrets by Juliet Solomon
Mini-Boxes by Marian Ballog
Desert Crossing by Elise Broach
As You Like It by William Shakespeare

Yes some weird ones in my bought section this week as there was a sale on and I tend to grab anything that I might be interested in too lol.

Cruzito's Mailbox


I Like Books by Anthony Browne (Pictured in above pic)

Sticky Beak (58)

Sticky Beak is all about sharing. Sometimes we can't all get around to every single blog and website available so that's where Sticky Beak comes in. By word of mouth (well you get what I mean) we are more likely to get to those blogs that we wouldn't have normally seen without someone pointing them out to us.


The links could be to your own post, a favourite blog post you would love to share, an authors blog/website, book/writing contests, reviews you really enjoyed, tour info or anything you would love to share with others. Just use the comments below to add your link!
Here's Mine:


Cool Stuff to Check Out
Read In A Sitting: Lists - YA Books set in Ancient Rome
Mrs P's Storytime: Mrs. P’s Tips for the “Write Way” to Exercise Your Child’s Imagination
Behind Yellow Eyes: This is Teen - Big Moments in Life.  Check it out
Lost in the Library: TGIF Quotes.  What are some of your favourite book quotes?
The Wrap: With 'Potter' & 'Twilight' winding down, Studios Hunger for YA Novels!
Booktopia Blog: The Booktopia Book Guru's 'How to Look Like You Know Stuff (in 6 easy Steps)


For Writers:
The Australian Literature Review: Science-Based Aust. Fiction Anthology (Call For Submissions)
Is It Hot In Here Or Is It This Book: Birthday Blowout First Page Contest with Victoria Marini

Author Interview with Sherry Soule

Spellbound By Books would love to welcome Sherry Soule, Author of the debut novel Beautifully Broken which will be out 30th June 2011

So here goes...

How would you describe Beautifully Broken?

A supernatural romance that blends elements of ghosts, haunted houses, demons, and witches.

What was the easiest and hardest part of writing Beautifully Broken?

I love writing description, so that was the easy part. And I think most writers will agree that dialogue is the HARDEST to write. That is why I am so adamant about listening to your work read aloud. It makes a huge difference in natural sounding conversations between characters.

Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

Well, I’m not actually published yet! I was published before about 10 years ago, but the industry has changed so much that now I’m learning as I go.

Where do you do most of your writing?

My workspace is surrounded by books and art. I write in a built-on family room in the house I’m renting. Since it was built without a foundation, I get a lot of creepy-crawlers in this room. Plus there is a forest area behind my house. So far, I’ve had a bat, wolf spider (this spiders are HUGE), salamander, lizard, slugs, black widow spider, and a centipede. These creatures tend to entertain my cat, but totally freak me out. LOL

What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?

I get up, drink coffee, take a shower and put on clean PJs. When I’m in the “writing zone” I can write for about 10 hours straight (only breaking to use the bathroom or grab a snack), unless I’m stuck on a scene. Then I’ll surf the web, read online poetry, check emails, and play on my blog.

What keeps you writing?

An obsession with the written word that I’ve had since I held my first book in my hands at age seven.

Finish this sentence. ‘When I’m not writing or editing I’m…”

Watching scary movies or catching up on my favorite TV shows saved on my DVR. I watch SUPERNATURAL, Vampire Diaries, TrueBlood, Game of Thrones, and I can’t wait for CW’s new series “The Secret Circle” about witches. Yay!

Any Future projects you would like to share with us?

Just started edits on the sequel to Beautifully Broken, and I’m having a “Pick-a-Title” contest on my blog.

Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven’t? What would your answer be?

Do I think haunted houses are real? YES. Supernatural activity inside homes is said to be mainly associated with violent or tragic events in the building's past such as murder, accidental death, or suicide.

Are there any tips and advice you would like to share with aspiring writers?

I have blog devoted to writers: “Dark Angel Writing Tools” that has tons of advice for writers at any stage in their career, agent and author interviews, and insider publishing secrets.  http://www.darkangelwritingtools.com

And last, you’re stuck on a deserted island. Which character from your book would you have with you and why?

Great question! Well, Shiloh or her Aunt Lauren, of course. So they can use their magickal talents to create a boat and get us off the island. Fast!

Thank you Sherry for taking the time to answer a few questions with me!

If you would like to check out more about Sherry Soule and her upcoming novel Beautifully Broken see the websites and book trailer below!!

Sherry Soule Official Website

Read my Awesome books!

Blog on Writing Tips and Publishing Secrets

Whispering Pine's haunted history

Follow me on Twitter

EPIC GIVEAWAY - Morganville Vampire Series - Winner!

EPIC MORGANVILLE VAMPIRES GIVEAWAY!

Thank you to everyone who entered to win this awesome giveaway!

Winner Picked!!

Result:58Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Tina!  
Whose favourite character is:

Myrnin, I think. His absurdity always make me smile, even in the most tense moments of the series.

You have one Books one to ten of the Morganville Vampires Series including a signed copy of Bite Club!!  As well as a bookmark and Morganville Resident Id Card to add in too!

I will be contacting you soon!

Hope everyone is having a good night!

Spellbound Noticeboard (10)

Welcome to Spellbound Noticeboard. Here is where Authors, Bloggers and others can send in anything that you'd like promoted. Competitions, book releases, blog events etc. This is your spot! So feel free to send me a line if you have anything book related (Including books made into movies) and I'll be sure to post these up! I'll also be including features etc that I come across to help spread the word for other Authors and bloggers! Just email me at melissa@spellboundbybooks.com

****************************

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making

"Twelve-year-old September lives in Omaha, and used to have an ordinary life, until her father went to war and her mother went to work. One day, September is met at her kitchen window by a Green Wind (taking the form of a gentleman in a green jacket), who invites her on an adventure, implying that her help is needed in Fairyland. The new Marquess is unpredictable and fickle, and also not much older than September. Only September can retrieve a talisman the Marquess wants from the enchanted woods, and if she doesn?t . . . then the Marquess will make life impossible for the inhabitants of Fairyland. September is already making new friends, including a book-loving Wyvern and a mysterious boy named Saturday.

With exquisite illustrations by acclaimed artist Ana Juan, Fairyland lives up to the sensation it created when the author first posted it online. For readers of all ages who love the charm of Alice in Wonderland and the soul of The Golden Compass, here is a reading experience unto itself: unforgettable, and so very beautiful."

Catherynne M. Valente's website:

http://www.catherynnemvalente.com/

****************************

Ruby Red

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

Macmillan page about Kerstin Gier, including excerpts, book cover, reviews and audio:

http://us.macmillan.com/rubyred

Link to trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgNSS79CR2Y

****************************


Thank you to Tara from Zeitghost Media from providing the information

Hope you all enjoy!

Waiting on Wednesday (60)

Waiting on Wednesday was brought to you by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!

I came across Reasons To Be Happy by Katrina Kittle which will be out on the 1st October 2011. This probably wouldn't be a book I'd normally read but as I love the cover I'm willing to give this book a go.

Synopsis
Hannah's parents are glamorous Hollywood royalty, and sometimes she feels like the ugly duckling in a family of swans. After her mother's tragic death, Hannah's grief is compounded by her desperate need to live up to her mother's image. She tries to control her weight through Bulimia, and her devastated father is too distracted to notice. The secret of her eating disorder weighs heavily on Hannah, but the new eighth grade Beverly Hills clique she's befriended only reinforces her desire to be beautiful. The only one who seems to notice, or care, that something is wrong is Jasper, the quirky mistfit.


And as always I'm having trouble just picking one book for WOW so I'll share another one I'm eagerly awaiting! First Kill by Heather Brewer which is the first in The Slayer Chronicles. This will be out in September this year. I loved the Chronicles of Vladimir Tod and am curious to see

Synopsis
You've heard Vlad's side of the story . . . now, it’s Joss’s turn.

With over a million copies already in print, The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod is still sinking its fangs into new readers every day. Now, bestselling author Heather Brewer brings us the other side of the story, from the perspective of Vlad’s former friend turned mortal enemy: vampire slayer Joss Macmillan. In five books that can be read alongside Vlad Tod or entirely on their own, Joss discovers his powers as the youngest, strongest slayer in history. And just in time, too: with all the vampires running rampant, he’s going to need all the help he can get. This action-packed series will quench the thirst of even the hungriest veteran minions.

Short Story Mini Reviews (1)

I created Short Story Mini Reviews for those short stories that were sent in that I didn't want to give too much of the storyline away.. 

Title: In The Dunes

Author: John Leahy

Pages: 22 

Format: eBook (epub) Buy here: Lillibridge Press

My Thoughts

An exceptionally creepy story about a man looking for his best friend who goes missing in the dunes.  I enjoyed all 22 pages especially the last part!  My favourite line was when Neil is talking to his son Jack. "..Just because I worked for a bank doesn't mean I am one." Page 5.

Title: Bright Moon 

Author: Marilyn Peake

Pages: 13 

Format:  eBook (epub) Buy Here: Amazon

My Thoughts

A beautiful yet sad story of a Chinese family who find and take in a faery baby and raise her as their own despite the one child policy that's in place.  I really enjoyed this one but was shocked at the punishment delved out to a family living across the river.  

Title: Coyote Crossing

Author:  Marilyn Peake

Pages: 16

Format: eBook (epub) Buy Here: Amazon

My Thoughts

 Coyote Crossing is a disturbing story of a teen girl Maria and her siblings risking their lives to leave Mexico illegally to start new in the US.  Ferried across by 'Coyotes' I was appalled yet not surprised at the treatment of Maria and the extra price she paid for a better life.  When she arrives at her new home it is not what she expects at all and it will leave others wondering whether the grass really is greener on the other side!  Careful as there is adult content in this one.

I'd like to thank both John Leahy and Marilyn Peake for providing me with review copies of their books!

In My Mailbox (65)

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

Bought:

Forgotten by Cat Patrick

I've already read and reviewed the ARC copy of this but I had to have a finished copy too.  Loved this book!

I've also been offered to review Life Liberty...and all the rest by Anthony Balducci and even though this isn't the sort of genre I'd normally read, if I get time I will pick it up and give it a go.

That's all from me this week.  Just a quiet one!  Hopefully next week may be filled with some surprises ;)

What did you get in your IMM?

Be sure to check out Charlie's (My) new blog called My Alter Ego Charlie.  It's still quite new so it won't have alot of content. (Also if you've noticed I am a follower.. just ignore that as I wasn't sure the GFC was working and I haven't gotten around to taking it off LOL)

Sticky Beak (57)

Sticky Beak is all about sharing. Sometimes we can't all get around to every single blog and website available so that's where Sticky Beak comes in. By word of mouth (well you get what I mean) we are more likely to get to those blogs that we wouldn't have normally seen without someone pointing them out to us.


The links could be to your own post, a favourite blog post you would love to share, an authors blog/website, book/writing contests, reviews you really enjoyed, tour info or anything you would love to share with others. Just use the comments below to add your link!


Here's Mine:


Cool Stuff To Check Out:
Excerpt of Forever by Maggie Stiefvater!  For those of you that might have missed this!
The Story Siren: Books to Pine For (54)
Electrifying Reviews: Future Favorites #42
Oh My Books: The Time Will Come #1 is a weekly meme hosted at Books for Company where you can spotlight those books that have been on your shelf for a while and you really want to read them.
Geeky Blogger's Book Blog: Calling All Bloggers/Authors with Multi-Date Event in July
The Fiction Enthusiast: This and That with Steve Watkins


For Writers and Bloggers:
I Swim For Oceans:  Let's Talk - Are Book Bloggers too critical?
Parajunkee's View: Book Bloggin 101 - Digital Footers and Blog Tours


Hope you enjoy!

The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein and Andrew Jackson Book Trailer

I'm currently reading this book at the moment and am loving it.  Here's the trailer for you all to enjoy :)

Summer Love by LM Preston

Summer Love

By

LM Preston

Source: WeHeartIt

Since most love in YA books comes from an authors true life experiences - or experiences of their friends. I love sharing some of my fun coaster rides in life from my teen years. Enjoy!

MY FROG TURNED PRINCE:

My best friend in High School lived in another town. She was pretty, perky, and best of all knew a lot of boys. One of her favorite things to do was to match make. Unfortunately for me, I was a glutton for punishment and went on 3 disaster dates due to her practicing being the new matchmaker.com.

She called and was like, "I've got the perfect one for you. I really do. I know what you like now. Took some practice, but trust me. I got this."

I generally told her off for her last 3 mishaps. The pock faced kid that picked his nose. The octopus that couldn't keep his hands to himself and the 'no show' that called to tell me that his girlfriend found out about me - Say what?!

But this one, she promised was perfect.

Well this time, I took it slow. I talked to the guy for about 2 months before I met him. Now we were supposed to mail each other pictures, but it never happened. Then eventually, we both decided to be surprised since we figured the major issues were cleared up. Like telling and confirming the basics of what we looked like. I didn’t count on tidbits from my match-maker friend. I asked him for references! Yep, I spoke to his buddies, and family members (like younger siblings who were too young to be jaded.)

THE MEETING

Well, at the time I lived in the city. He lived in the suburbs in a nice neighborhood. But what I liked about him was he had street smarts from growing up in Grand Rapids / and Saginaw, MI. Even so, he was very intelligent and could speak ‘street’ and suburb like me. See, even though I lived in the city, I went to Catholic School where ‘proper’ English was only allowed. If you slipped into slang – you got slapped, literally!

So, he caught the Metro train, then the bus to my neighborhood. I took my ‘aunt’ along, who was more like a cousin. We were both the same age and she had explicate directions to scope out the bus and to take my ditch him with our made up excuse if the guy was a dud.

Now, the moment of truth – I laid eyes on him and was like, “WOWSA!” I literally had to gulp my heart back in my chest.

He looked at me and smiled (I believe he was thinking the same thing – but I was wrong.)

I stood there and grinned like a fool, then tripped forward as my cousin elbowed me. Oh…forgot she was still there. I whispered to her, “Beat it!” and she promptly left.

Then I looked back at him and he was frowning…yep, frowning. The first thing he said to me was, “Ummm, you don’t look like what I thought. Are you sure you’re 15? I mean…you are really small. How tall are you?”

Okay, yeah, I’m only about 5ft to his 6ft 2inches, but I was funsized!

THE UGLY TRUTH

Well, truth was, he was not cut out for long distance romance. I found out through a reliable source (his best friend who was ‘crushing on me’) that he was running around with another girl – heck a few other girls. So I confronted him and he fessed up the truth. Gotta say I was impressed with his honesty - as blunt as it was. However, he did warn me by saying, "Do you really want to know? Cause I'm not gonna lie." Now what person in their right mind will say, "Oh lie to me..." So I told him I could respect a dude that spoke the truth, but a liar, I'd never respect - so spill it. All he simply said was, "Yes, I've been seeing other people. You live too far away." And of course, I dumped him.

THE FAIRY TALE ENDING

We decided to remain friends. And after 8 years of true friendship, we dated for about 3 months and have been married for 18years. So I lucked out and married my frog – who turned prince – after having 8 years to grow up.

**
A BIG thank you to LM Preston for taking the time to write this fantastic post :)
 

LM Preston

YA SciFi Author

LM. Preston was born and raised in Washington, DC. An avid reader, she loved to create poetry and short-stories as a young girl. With a thirst for knowledge she attended college at Bowie State University, and worked in the IT field as a Techie and Educator for over sixteen years. She started writing science fiction under the encouragement of her husband who was a Sci-Fi buff and her four kids. Her first published novel, Explorer X - Alpha was the beginning of her obsessive desire to write and create stories of young people who overcome unbelievable odds. She loves to write while on the porch watching her kids play or when she is traveling, which is another passion that encouraged her writing.

WEBSITE: http://www.lmpreston.com/
BLOG: http://lmpreston.blogspot.com/
PARTY BLOG: http://bookpartylmpreston.blogspot.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/LM_Preston
FACEBOOK: http://tinyurl.com/2fev6qc
BOOKS available at amazon & all bookstores

Waiting on Wednesday (59)

Waiting on Wednesday was brought to you by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!


I'm loving the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine and can't wait for Last Breath to come out on 21st November 2011.

Synopsis (Goodreads)
There is a question Claire has long been asking: why do vampires live so far out in a sunny desert when they're sensitive to sunlight? The reason doesn't have to do with sunlight but water - and an ancient enemy who has finally found a way to invade the vampires' landlocked community. Vampires aren't the top predator on earth. There's something worse that preys on them ...something much worse. Which means if Claire, and Morganville, want to live, they will have to fight on to the last breath.






And as always I've got another that I'm eyeing off thanks to the pictures from BEA!  It's called Eve by Anna Carey and won't be out until the 4th October 2011

Synopsis (Goodreads)

The year is 2032, sixteen years after a deadly virus—and the vaccine intended to protect against it—wiped out most of the earth’s population. The night before eighteen-year-old Eve’s graduation from her all-girls school she discovers what really happens to new graduates, and the horrifying fate that awaits her. 

Fleeing the only home she’s ever known, Eve sets off on a long, treacherous journey, searching for a place she can survive. Along the way she encounters Caleb, a rough, rebellious boy living in the wild. Separated from men her whole life, Eve has been taught to fear them, but Caleb slowly wins her trust...and her heart. He promises to protect her, but when soldiers begin hunting them, Eve must choose between true love and her life.