Sep 15 2013

This Side of Forever Book Blast

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

In the small town of Harden Fields, summer time seems to be the best time to set fire to old flames in this racy, heart-stopping romance.

Laney Oliver is ready to start a new life. Away from the small lonely town of Harden Fields, Alabama. Away from the pressures of her careless family. And away from the shadows of her broken heart. Laney is just beginning to heal after the love of her life shattered her perfect world, leaving her with no explanation. When the reason for her pain-stricken heart returns to Harden for the summer, she vows to stay away. But, she soon realizes that it may be easier said than done.

Jeremiah Cutler left Harden Fields in a rage, leaving his entire reason for existence behind. He knew that he was shattering Laney’s world, but he had to…there was no other way. Everything he did, he did for her… he just has to prove himself to her once again. Leaving Laney was a necessary fleet that he wishes he could take back, but staying away from her was never an option. Now, amidst his return, Jeremiah’s sole purpose is to win Laney’s trust back and to regain his forever at any cost.

Purchase This Side of Forever – Smashwords | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

GIVEAWAY

C. Marie Mosley is hosting a giveaway for the following prizes at the end of the tour:
Grand Prize – Ultimate Prize Pack (Signed Paperback & Swag)
2nd – Signed Paperback ARCs (3)
3rd – E-books (5)

Enter Here:
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
C. Marie grew up in a small town outside of Birmingham, Alabama. When she’s not making up her own stories, she’s extremely busy getting lost in someone else’s. C. Marie enjoys penning stories in new adult and young adult contemporary romance. She also has a young adult fantasy fiction series, entitled Empyreal.
Writing is her passion, but she enjoys other things, too. She is an avid-reader, and she loves to dance & practically lives through music. She loves to make people laugh, and is extremely creative in every genre. But most of all, she loves to spend time with her wonderful family. She currently lives in Alabama with her amazing family, and continues to create imaginary worlds for all to enjoy.

Connect with C. Marie:
Website | Facebook | Twitter

Sep 13 2013

Jenny’s Blue Velvet Book Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis:
Jenny’s stuck.

She’s tried just about every occupation she can think of and will be digging out of student debt for a very long time, but has nothing to show for it. Her everyday routine feels like a prison. And her marriage? Well, let’s just say it’s been a little one-sided lately and the money she threw down on the toys from Lover’s Erotic Store was well worth it and then some.

Jenny decides her next big step is to become a romance writer. Romance books are flying off the virtual shelves, after all. This will be her big break, her escape from the prison, and a way to freedom. Self-publishing is all the rage these days. She’ll be a best seller in no time.

When Jenny makes friends with a woman named Cassandra from the gym, she instantly decides that her new friend will make a perfect main character in her upcoming book. After the first chapter, real life begins to resemble the fiction she’s writing. Her friendship blossoms, sex with her husband turns into a daily feast, and her job gets more interesting with each chapter written.

Out of the blue, a person who is a close friend with her husband and who is dating Cassandra disappears. As the mystery behind the missing person unfolds, Jenny wonders if she might be responsible for his possible death. And if she is, what will be the consequence? What has this writing business gotten her into?

JENNY’S BLUE VELVET is a dark, humorous, romantic thriller for adults only

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

My Review

Jenny’s Blue Velvet is an incredibly interesting, incredibly brilliant novella. It begins with the story of Jenny and her many hats…Jenny knows one thing for sure, she isn’t happy with her mundane life. She decides she wants to work towards publishing a romance novel. As the story progresses her novel takes a dark turn and becomes more of a romantic suspense but when Jenny’s life begins to mirror that of her novel — the shocking truth begins to unravel. I won’t waste time repeating the synopsis but I will say this book is seriously incredible.

The problem with me writing a review for this book is anything I say will probably give away too much. This book is a serious mind-fuck! I had to go back and re-read things because I was so surprised that I couldn’t believe I’d actually read correctly. You are left with a few WTF and OMG moments. You will likely flip back a few pages to ensure you too didn’t miss something. I was surprised and definitely had a couple of jaw-dropping moments especially towards the end. This is a pretty quick read and probably one of the most unique concepts I’ve ever read in a book. It definitely deviates from the norm. If you have a love for romance, suspense and dark, witty books, this is the perfect read! I actually found myself wishing this was a full length novel…maybe this won’t be the last of Jenny.

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

About the Author – Angela Carlie

I’ve lived in the state of Washington my entire life. Sure, it rains a lot, but that’s what makes it so beautiful here. I’d like to say it’s the most beautiful place on the planet, but I have yet to travel the world. Someday I’ll know for sure.

I write fiction involving young people. Mainstream publishing would label my writing as YA or middle grade. Since I’m an indie author, I can skip over the labels and tell you that each one of my stories is unique, can be read and enjoyed by all ages, and almost always has a young person as the protagonist. Authors write what they know and I don’t know old yet. I may someday write about older people, but that’s so far in the future that I can’t see it yet.

Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Smashwords

Sep 11 2013

Don’t Make Me Beautiful Blog Tour & Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 6 Comments

Synopsis

A ROMANTIC SUSPENSE NOVEL.

No one knew a woman lived there or that she even existed. A monster, living in darkness…

At twenty-six, Nicole doesn’t even look human anymore. The beast made sure of that. So she hides. A monster consigned to a life of fear and solitude. This is all she deserves, she is quite sure of that.
And then one day out of the blue, the autographed baseball caught by Brian Jensen at the latest Marlins game enters her prison and manages to turn her world completely upside down.
Temptation comes in the form of pity at first, and then perhaps something more.
Does she dare to believe the things she’s told, that this is not the life she was meant to live? That being a monster is not her forever-fate? And will she be willing to risk everything, to reach out and accept the helping hands around her? She knows only too well that hands can hurt. Finding out whether they can also heal is a risky proposition, especially when the beast is still out there. Looking for her.

**This story was inspired by true events. If you liked the movie “Sleeping With the Enemy”, then you might like this story too. CONTENT WARNING: Violence, foul language, and adult situations. Intended for mature readers 17+**

Don’t Make Me Beautiful Book Review

This book is scary. I don’t mean that in a bad way. It’s scary because it is such a real and normal part of what occurs in society, so frequently, that people turn a blind eye to just how awful some people have it. Domestic abuse/abuse is a very serious and very real problem for men, women and children in our society. This book sheds light on a brutal but harsh reality for some. This book took a toll on me emotionally since I have worked closely with people who have had similar experiences. Reading this book brought a lot of memories to the surface. Some harsh realities and even a sense of pride in those who fight back, rebuild and reclaim their lives. For some that never comes but for those who get there it is a monumental achievement. I was an advocate for survivors such as Nicole so I was able to read this book free of judgment, something that doesn’t come easy for most. Experiences like Nicole were more extreme than most but there are so many that deal with abuse like this. It’s not as simple as it looks to leave and it is usually something that someone has experienced over the course of many years which allows them to continue on as though this were life. Abuse of this magnitude is not easy to endure. Oftentimes people are too quick to judge without knowing the entire story so when I read this book. I sincerely read it. I looked past the preconceived notions and threw out the judgment and read the story of a woman who was badly broken but tried to survive.

For many people, it’s hard to understand the reasons why someone would remain in an abusive environment/household. The problem is, most times these survivors are doing exactly that – trying to survive. In many ways Nicole was a survivor, she had a lot of bad things happen to her at a young age. She was nineteen when she met John and he promised her the world. He tore her down and programmed her to think in a manner that suited him. He kept her prisoner and made her believe herself so ugly and worthless that no one would care if she lived or died. The mentality of the abuser is always one of control. John wanted control and he only wanted to possess Nicole as an object, he never wanted to love her or be loved. People like John are incapable of such emotions. It’s about power and control, not love.

I really fell in love with this book. The author states it was inspired by a true story and the fact is, this happens all too often and not enough people are voicing these problems. She took something that I see as controversial and heart wrenching and found the beauty in the beast. I loved that she was able to paint a vivid and scary world yet fill it with beauty and love. It is inspiring.

So, what can I say about the book….a whole hell of a lot as I’ve made clear (see above ^ lol)

Nicole (aka Briana – you’ll need to read to learn why…hehe…I know I’m evil) has been brutalized beaten and turned into a monster. She’s permanently disfigured from years of being battered by her boyfriend John. When a baseball goes through her window and a little boy named Liam comes to reclaim it, Nicole has no idea her life is about to change. Brian, Liam’s father is a stand up man. He has integrity and teaches his son the same. When his son’s baseball crashes through the neighbor’s window, Liam is marched over to apologize while Brian, his father offers to pay. John, Nicole’s boyfriend pretends that it’s no big deal but inside he’s fuming. When the two leave, John beats Nicole senseless that night…Brian feels something is off with John and returns to John’s home in hopes of speaking with the elusive “wife.” He gets more than he bargained for and Nicole gets the break of her life…but can someone like Brian ever love someone as deformed as Nicole? Can he look past the outer appearance and see what’s inside?

The best part of this book for me is the valuable lessons it teaches the reader. Beauty truly is skin deep and someone who loves you…truly loves you will be able to look past any outward flaws and see into your heart…completely. Brian is a solid human being. He is a living, breathing example of how all humans should strive to be. He is a man of integrity and while Nicole can’t believe the reality of her situation since he entered her life, this is what and whom she truly deserves. Brian vows to do all he can to protect her and help her get her life back from the vile creature that stole it. The only problem is, will she let him?

The abuse/violence in this book is awful but it is equally beautiful in it’s romance. Brian, Nicole, Liam, Agnes and even Helen were all lovable characters. Each plays a key role in Nicole’s healing process. I highly recommend this book – especially for women. I think it is important for everyone to understand how bad it can get and how easily someone (man/woman/child) can fall prey. I give this book 5 resounding stars for it’s power and honesty. It had me hooked from start to finish!

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

About the Author

New York Times Best-Selling author Elle Casey is an American girl living in southern France with her husband, three children, and several furry creatures. She writes in a variety of genre including YA Fantasy, YA Action/Adventure, New Adult Romance, and Adult Contemporary Romance. She’s a little on the wild side, usually busy making people laugh, and always in the mood for adventure. There’s not much in this world that she loves more than reader interaction, so feel free to drop her a line.

Giveaway

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Sep 07 2013

Painted Boots by Mechelle Morrison Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

When her father drags her to a new life in Wyoming, Aspen Brand doesn’t expect to fall for a cowboy named Kyle Thacker—but she does. At seventeen, Aspen and Kyle share unexpected ground: guitar, running, physics. And guilt. Aspen blames herself for her mother’s car accident, while Kyle can’t find a way past his brother’s suicide.
On their first date they open up to each other, forging an unbreakable bond between them. But Kyle has spent two years living with a vicious secret—one his ex-girlfriend will do anything to protect—and sharing his truth with Aspen makes her a target. Now if Kyle is to be her love story, Aspen must first win the fight of her life.

Giveaway

Up for grabs:
2 Signed Copies of Painted Boots
3 ebook copies of Painted Boots

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OR link to the giveaway if you cannot post javascript: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NGE1MDEyNTkzNmEzMjcwYWY1N2NlODA1YWVlMmE3OjI1Mw==/

My Review

Painted Boots is a sweet book with some painstakingly frightening moments.

Aspen Brand’s father uproots their life and heads to Wyoming to start fresh after the loss of his wife, Maddy, Aspen’s mother. While Aspen is grieving her father also struggles with the loss of his beloved wife. He’s lost without her and navigating his role as a parent isn’t easy. He loves Aspen fiercely but it seems his wife was their anchor. She was the glue that held them together. Although this book has a beautiful romance. I loved the dynamic between the parents and the children. I would’ve liked to know more about the parents pasts and their own stories…perhaps in another book (hint hint Mechelle lol)

Aspen’s first day at her new school starts off on the wrong foot. She encounters a group of girls and acknowledges them kindly only to be met with sneers and rude comments. She notices Kyle Thacker immediately, she’s drawn to him and she wants to know more about him, but Em Harrelson, his ex girlfriend wants no part of it. She’s determined to keep Kyle at any cost and if she has anything to say about it Aspen won’t be on his radar. Em’s efforts borderline obsessive and downright terrifying at times. Kyle wants nothing to do with her but she won’t leave him alone. Kyle has a secret one he’s afraid to share with anyone, until Aspen. She has breathed life into his world again. He opens himself up to her and opens his heart but after sharing this secret he fears for her own safety.

This book covers a really serious topic but one that generally doesn’t get presented in such a harsh, violent manner — bullying. Em Harrelson is probably the meanest of the mean girls. She’s downright mental but Kyle and Aspen cling to one another as they open up and share their secrets hoping that Em will allow them a happy ever after. Aspen and Kyle’s story is inspiring and truly beautiful. I loved the honesty between these two. Their relationship, though they are young is a relationship many people search a lifetime for. It is a sweet story but their are some alarmingly violent moments that shake you to your core. I felt for Aspen and Kyle but I also felt for their parents. The parents who were so very supportive and loving throughout everything both their families had endured. This was a good read especially if you’re a fan of cowboys.

I’d recommend this book for those interested in mature Young Adult books.

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Buy Painted Boots for Kindle | Nook | Kobo | Paperback

About the Author

Mechelle Morrison loves language–she’s always wished she could speak and write them all. She lives for chocolate, lazy summer days, spontaneously funny things . . . and family. She’s sort of scared of dogs.

When she’s not reading or writing or wandering the world, she can be found in her backyard in Utah with her husband, their daughter and the bevy of quail that live behind their garage.

If she didn’t write she’d make stop-motion animation shorts. So she does that anyway.

Website | Facebook | Goodreads

Sep 06 2013

Visited Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis

Seventeen-year-old Joanna Murphy has lost faith in her life. Vying for her mom’s attention, she’s resentful of her stepdad’s intrusion to their family. Her best friend, Tommy, has no clue she’s in love with him as he dates girl after girl without noticing how it tortures her. The final kicker, though, is God’s sick joke to make her freakishly tall when everyone knows boys prefer petite girls.

Then in a bizarre accident Joanna meets James, a breathtaking teen who appears to her after an unusual falling star sighting. Suddenly, her dream for an alien encounter becomes all too real. But when she finds her life has been made unrecognizable, she’s forced into an explosive study of the original design for her life that just may have her regretting every wish she ever made.

Purchase Visited for Kindle | Nook

My Review

Visited is a sweet lighthearted sci-fi/fantasy book about a young girl who is trying to find her way. Joanna Murphy is having a bad day. Her mom and stepdad announce some very big news that will affect her summer plans. Her volleyball coach asks for a favor that puts her out and Tommy, her best friend has no idea she is jealous of his girlfriend because she’s secretly crushing on him…hard! Ok, maybe she secretly loves him.

Have you ever heard that saying, “the grass isn’t always greener on the other side?” This is exactly the kind of book that proves that statement to be true. What would you do if your world were turned upside down? What would you do if everything you thought you wanted was at your fingertips? After an accident leaves Joanna injured and face to face with James, extra hot with a side of extra “ahem” terrestrial? Joanna gets the opportunity to see how life would be if she got what she wished for, but as she gets what she thinks she’s always wanted she starts to learn some tough lessons. Can Joanna find a way to get back to her “old self?”

This was a very interesting book with a few twists along the way. Although the characters were older teenagers this book was pretty innocent. I enjoyed this book it was a quick light hearted read with just a touch of romance/drama. It is definitely a book fans of YA, sci-fi or fantasy will enjoy though I might classify it as YA Fantasy/Coming of Age. Though I would recommend it for younger readers (approx. 11-17) as it may be too innocent for some readers.

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

About the Author

Janine Caldwell was born in Concord, CA and raised in the small San Francisco Bay Area town of Clayton. Four days after her high school graduation, Janine attended California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and graduated with a degree in English.

Janine now lives in Anthem, AZ with her husband and two sons. As a lifelong literature fanatic, she knew it was only a matter of time before she would become obsessed with writing her own work. With relatives like the Brothers Grimm and Anita Loos (Gentlemen Prefer Blondes), she figured fantasy writing had to be in her DNA.

Books published by Janine include Visited, a YA coming-of-age fantasy, Rematch and Double Fault—the first two books of The Vortex Series.

The final book in this YA fantasy romance, Deuce, will be released fall 2013.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Other books by Janine Caldwell:

Sep 04 2013

A Missing Peace Blog Tour, Review/Favorite Quotes & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis

A turbulent, emotionally charged YA novel that breaks down barriers and challenges the status quo…

Angry, seventeen-year-old Iraqi war refugee Mirriam Yohanna hates her new life in Killeen, Texas, where the main attraction is a military base, populated with spoiled army brats like Caleb Miller.

Caleb has much to be angry about too, including Mirriam who turns him down flat in front of everyone. Eager for retribution, Caleb agrees to a dare that will see him take Mirriam to the prom and regain his pride.

But their relationship soon moves beyond high school antics. Mirriam and Caleb are bound together by more than location, and as they are forced to work closely together on a school assignment, they start to uncover an explosive story that has the potential to ruin lives — and both of their futures. One single truth changes everything and strengthens their bond.
When Mirriam’s family discovers their relationship, they decide it’s time to arrange her marriage to a proper Iraqi man. Caleb must convince Mirriam that he is in it for forever — or risk losing her for good.

Review

This was one of the best books I’ve read all summer in fact I think it may be one of the best books I’ve read this year. This book is considered Young Adult but I feel it caters to anyone who is politically minded, interested in current events or someone who generally enjoys a forbidden romance. I highly recommend this book to all readers.   

The truest statement I’ve ever read in a synopsis –

“A turbulent, emotionally charged YA novel that breaks down barriers and challenges the status quo…”

That description absolutely nails this book!

Let’s start with my own summary

Mirriam Yohanna an Iraqi refugee comes to Killeen, TX – a military town. Mirriam harbors more baggage than the average American teenager. She intends to keep to herself until graduation when she can leave this town behind and all the small-minded people who live in it. That is her plan, until she meets Caleb Miller. Caleb is an All-American teenage dream. He’s a football player and everyone loves him. He’s also an army brat…in Mirriam’s opinion. They have a few run-ins that first day of school, but it isn’t until Caleb’s buddies set a bet, one that Caleb willingly agrees to take on. His goal is to get her to go to prom with him but only to recover from her blowing him off in front of his friends.

Lucky for him Mirriam walks into his Government class. He volunteers to partner up with Mirriam in order to get closer to her. The class begins and Mirriam silently listens on as her teacher speaks of Iraq in a manner that Mirriam disagrees with. She can’t stand the propaganda and speaks up causing an all out debate to ensue, leaving both Mirriam and Caleb arguing over who is right and who is wrong concerning the war. Caleb admits he lost his dad in Iraq and Mirriam tells the story of her father dying at the hands of an American solider. Each carry the weight of losing a beloved parent neither knowing just how much they have in common.

Why did I love this book?  The short, easy answer is: it’s a great book. It was well written with an excellent storyline and two lovable protagonists! The political aspect intrigued me and it basically challenged the way many people think about politics, government and war. I loved that! I am a junkie when it comes to politics and government so that aspect of the story stuck with me the most. The book is romantic but it covers a wide range of serious topics, the story just fell together beautifully for me.

Beth Fred really creates a powerful tale of two young people who are on a quest for truth and justice! Ha! That sounds like I’m discussing a comic book hero but in all seriousness this book evoked a strong sense of the human spirit overall. The ability for us to look past our differences, to coexist, even love. I felt that I personally could relate to this story so I think that also played a huge part of why I loved it so much.

I wouldn’t mind a sequel…K, thanks Beth haha 😉

Favorite Quotes

I tried to choose a few of my favorite quotes that wouldn’t give too much of the storyline away. I feel this is a book everyone needs to read and interpret in their own way and I felt it was important to keep certain aspects of this review spoiler free.

“We’re there to keep terrorists from doing things like that.”
A single tear rolled down my face. In spite of this, I let out a laugh. “Except, he was shot by an American soldier.” Caleb’s mouth gaped. He rocked back in his chair and didn’t say anything else.”

“Sure, friends,” I said, “but it’s probably a good idea to do something that doesn’t require us to talk much.”
“Why would you say that?”
“Caleb, I call what the U.S. did to us an ‘invasion’. You call it ‘aid’, and I don’t think either one of us are changing our minds anytime soon.”
He nodded, both defiant and sympathetic in a single motion.”

“Won’t happen.”
“Try me.”
Instead of looking for a reply, I took a huge chance. The kind of risk you could easily regret. I leaned down and pressed my lips to hers. It didn’t take long to force her lips open. She clasped one hand around each of my arms and squeezed tightly. She was kissing back. It was perfect.”

“She stepped out the door then turned back, grabbed my face and kissed me with an urgency she hadn’t before.
I held onto her and pressed her body to mine until I realized she had no plans of breaking this. When her body started to curl around mine, I pulled away. “It’s going to be okay. I promise, M. I meant what I said. I won’t let anyone take you from me.”

I could go on and on but I seriously want you all to go out and get this book. It’s worth the read!

Purchase A Missing Peace for Kindle | Nook | Paperback

Giveaway
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About the Author
Meet Beth Fred! A full time ELF keeper and part time writer/blogger/writing instructor. Beth likes her tea hot, her romance sweet, and her guys chivalrous. Real men hold open doors, refer to you as ma’am, make promises they keep, and aren’t afraid to profess their undying love. It’s not breakfast if there aren’t carbs (at least, not in the South). Fajitas, carnitas, and churros are just a few of Beth’s favorite things. Bet you can’t guess where she’s from.

Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Sep 03 2013

Crossing by Stacey Benefiel Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 4 Comments

Synopsis

*Due to heavy subject matter, Crossing is recommended for readers 17+.

He stole her lipstick…and her heart.Twenty-year-old Dani Walker can’t believe her luck when she’s paired up with the gorgeous Liam Garrett as her Acting I scene partner – or when he ends up in her bed. Being a Plain Jane with a mouth on her hasn’t exactly served Dani well in the guy department. In fact, she’s had nothing but one night stands. Still, she lets go of her insecurities and falls for Liam, despite feeling like he’s holding something back.When Dani finally discovers Liam’s secret, she must learn the true meaning of accepting the ones we love for who they are, or risk losing the best thing that’s ever happened to her.

Review

Here are my thoughts……….

I really enjoyed reading this book, but it took an unexpected yet somehow refreshing turn for me. While I was able to roll with it, see it through and actually enjoy it — I will be honest and say this may not be for every reader. With that said, I do recommend this for anyone who is open-minded/nonjudgmental; anyone who is accepting of others no matter their beliefs, practices or preferences. This author surprised me but I liked the fact that I didn’t necessarily expect some of the turns along this somewhat bumpy ride.

Lets start with Dani. Twenty-year old Dani is a sophomore in college looking for a change of direction. She switches her English education major to what she has longed to do since starting college — Theatre. There she befriends Liam. Beautiful, Liam, who actually can keep up with her witty remarks and for some reason they become quite comfortable around one another. They become scene partners and slowly, but surely a romance begins to blossom. There is a lot of playful and witty banter throughout this book – which I absolutely loved.

Dani has a problem, she is a master at self-depreciation. She uses her wit to downplay a lot of her so called flaws. She doesn’t believe a man like Liam could like her or even love her. She’s been through a lot, but never been in love or even had a relationship beyond a one night stand. Liam refuses to be a notch on her list and wants more than anything to show her how special she is. The fall into an easy yet comfortable relationship but Liam has a secret…one that could possibly change the course of their relationship permanently. While Dani suspects Liam is keeping something from her, she cares so deeply for him she is afraid to question him for fear of losing him. Things get complicated and Dani must decide if this relationship is worth sticking out or if she is in over her head?

I definitely fell in love with both characters. Dani is a loving, accepting individual who cares deeply for her friends and Liam. They both accept one another and encourage each other in ways others can’t possibly understand. Their relationship transcends boundaries and is quite inspiring. I really enjoyed the humor, the love, and the uniqueness of this book.

While I really enjoyed this very sweet, unconventional love story it may not be a read for those who are of the narrow/close-minded persuasion. If you’re an open-minded individual, this is a book you will enjoy, even love. I definitely did.

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Purchase Crossing for Kindle | Nook | Paperback

_________

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_________

About the Author

Stacey Wallace Benefiel is the author of the Zellie Wells trilogy, FOUND, the Day of Sacrifice series, The Toilet Business – a collection of essays,CROSSING, and multiple short stories.

She sometimes goes by S.W. Benefiel or Reina Stowe, but knows she’s not foolin’ anybody.

Stacey lives in an orange house in Beaverton, OR with her two young children

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Aug 21 2013

All-American Girl by Justine Dell

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis
At the age of thirty, with two failed marriages and a tanking writing career, Samantha Moore deals with the world with the only tool she had left: anger. And she’s tired of it. When her grandmother’s near-death sends her rushing back home to Vermont, she hopes for the chance to overcome the rage ruling her life.
Once she’s home, Lance Cummings becomes a constant source of indigestion. Lance is a single father who learned first-hand the devastating effects of a damaging relationship. He sees through Samantha’s nasty temper—straight to her cry for help. He wants to help her, but he also wants to know why Samantha ran from him—and their future—twelve years before.
Taking care of her Grams, dealing with an alcoholic brother, and getting Lance to remove his annoyingly attractive nose from her business is draining on Samantha. And she’s only got three weeks to finish her stagnated novel or her publisher will drop her. No pressure. To top it off, pretending to hate the man she actually loves makes each day in Vermont harder than the last. Especially when Lance turns up the heat.

Purchase All-American Girl

Kindle | Nook | Paperback

About the Author
Justine lives in the Midwest, happily catering to her family, which consists of a horse-obsessed teenage daughter, four dogs, and a husband who is to good to be true. She’s never moved from her hometown, but hopes to grow old in a much warmer climate. During the day she works a normal job with college students who try their best to keep her young. They’ve done a good job thus far. At night, said teenage daughter and her horse require mounds of love and attention. The weekends belong solely to her and her writing. That’s when she morphs into a sticky bug, unable to leave the confines of her computer chair.
She started writing three years ago after seeing a movie that set off a chain reaction she couldn’t have stopped if she’d wanted. It’s not a hobby for her; it’s an obsession. One she loves and one she loves to share. Her debut novel, RECAPTURED DREAMS, and her second book, ALL-AMERICAN GIRL, are available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and wherever books are sold.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY

The author is hosting a Book Birthday Giveaway on her website.
She’s giving away a Kindle Fire preloaded with Omnific books, Amazon Gift Card, and Swag Pack.

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Excerpt

Samantha lurched up, oblivious to the spikes of pain through her head. She watched in horror as he strode out of her bathroom in nothing but well-fitting blue jeans. He rubbed a towel over his head and the morning sun made the traces of water on his chest glisten. Samantha peeled back the blanket she was clinging to. She was wearing nothing but a thin cotton nightgown. Oh my God. What on earth had she done? He stopped next to the bed, his irreverent eyes showing a hint of amusement at her gaping. “Morning, sunshine. Can you please answer your phone?” He tossed the Blackberry next. She couldn’t pick it up even if she wanted; her body was rigid and her stomach churned. Oh, hell—she really didn’t want to vomit. She doubted she could make it the bathroom. Closing her eyes, she collected every thought from the night before, and came up with nothing that involved Lance. “What are you doing here?” The bed dipped as he sat. She flinched and pulled the covers tightly around her body. “What do you think?” Humiliation stole her words. Running from him and hiding in the closet wasn’t an option, either. “Please tell me I didn’t do something I’ll regret.” His brows furrowed. “So spending the night with me is something you’d automatically regret?” She had regretted it before, she’d regret it again. “Yes.”

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Aug 20 2013

Beside Your Heart Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Was he The One who got away?

Late one night, Nicki Johnson plays with emotional fire and Googles her high school love, only to find his name splashed across the British gossip columns. Back in his native England, Adam Kincaid is successful and dating a woman from an aristocratic family like his own. With a career in politics, Nicki’s no slouch, but she knows Adam is living a world away from her life.

Yet there was a time he was no farther than the next locker. Nicki will never forget their year together in high school–the year of her sister’s death, the year her mother checked out. Adam helped Nicki through suffocating grief, and she led him through coming of age. But when is a high school crush something more?

My Review

This is a heartwarming story. I really, really, enjoyed it. The story tugs at your heart. The prologue begins in present day but much of the content beyond that is what leads up to present day events.

Nicki Johnson, the protagonist, at seventeen has experienced loss beyond anything someone should experience at such a young age. Her sister is taken from her after a terrible accident. Her mother is grieving and has failed to be present mentally or physically. She copes by keeping busy but this keeps her out of the house and Nicki is uncertain how to deal with her own grief but she knows as numb as she feels she doesn’t want to live that way. Her mother isn’t a horrible person but she grieves in a way that leaves Nicki a bit neglected. It’s easy to see how difficult the loss of her sister has affected this family as a whole. Enter Adam, the hot British guy at school. He is everything Nicki knows she should stay away from, but for some reason he’s the only thing on her mind. He does all he can to get to know her better but she keeps her distance fearing she will end up hurt. Although they know of each other, their interactions were limited in the past, but this year their lockers are right next to one another. This year, she will get to know Adam better and like it or not, this will be the year she risks her heart. Her world unravels as she allows herself a chance at happiness…but can it last?

Adam Kincaid steps into Nicki’s life in High School but thoughts of him have remained with her into her adult life. She opens up and bares everything to him. She allows him into her thoughts and into her heart. She discusses the loss of her sister, the way her family dealt with the loss and what she remembers. Although she’s been silently suffering, she lets her guard down with Adam who seems to be the only person that asks how she’s holding up. She feels a level of comfort with him that she doesn’t find with anyone else. Slowly, he becomes her rock. Flawed as she feels, he accepts all of her. He sees her scars, both emotional and physical yet he listens intently and accepts every beautiful part of her. He shares his dreams with her and she never criticizes, she simply encourages him to do what he loves. The few months they spend together in High School stick with them for a lifetime. But can these two find their way back to each other?

Present day

Nicki’s career has led her search for Adam. After googling him, she finds out he is currently dating a woman who is from an illustrious family. Knowing that his family is from the same circle she can’t help but feel inferior. She still thinks of him often and longs to see him but she won’t admit it. Two of her friends venture to Europe and while in England, they meet up with Adam who is as curious about Nicki and her life as she is about him. I won’t give much more away but this is a must read for second chance romance fans!

Yay or Nay?

This is a beautiful book. It captures the essence of not only a first love, but true love. One that outlasts even distance and time. It was an emotional ride for me, the story touched on some pretty heavy loss for someone so young. It made me feel for this girl who felt as though she had no one to turn to. Although she grieves with her family, they all handled the loss differently. They all had to grieve alone in their own way. Adam helps her through a tough time in her life but he makes a lasting impression and forever changes her.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good love story. Depending on how emotional of a reader you are, you may need tissues for this one! I don’t cry very often in general so I don’t get very emotional with many books, BUT this one had me a bit teary eyed at one point or another. This is a book about first loves, second chances, healing and enduring love. I love, love, loved it. I am eagerly awaiting the release of Book 2!

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Purchase Beside Your Heart for Kindle | Paperback

There was something about the look in his eyes and the feeling of our bodies being connected that was too much. Everything about being with him felt impossibly special, but was it? In a way, I didn’t care if the actual sex was as good for him as it had been with Kate or Meredith; he appeared to enjoy himself just fine. But did it feel the same way for him?

Only allowing him to rest on my chest for a minute, I turned over onto my side. I felt the need to protect myself, but I also wanted to know the truth—at least I thought I might. Timidly, I asked, “Is…is it always this way? When you’re with someone?”

He pulled me back toward him. Looking me straight in the eye, he somberly shook his head. “No. It’s never been like this for me.” Kissing my forehead, he ended the discussion. “I love you, Nicki.”

author pic

About the Author

Even before she graduated from law school, Mary knew she wasn’t cut out to be a real lawyer. Drawn to politics, she’s spent her career as an organizer, lobbyist, and nonprofit executive. Nothing piques her interest more than a good political scandal or romance, and when she stumbled upon writing, she put the two together. A born Midwesterner, naturalized Texan, and transient resident of Washington, D.C., Mary now lives in Northern California with her two daughters and real lawyer husband.

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Aug 15 2013

Unteachable Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 3 Comments

Synopsis

This novel contains graphic sexual content and strong language. It is intended for mature readers.

I met him at a carnival, of all corny places. The summer I turned eighteen, in that chaos of neon lights and cheap thrills, I met a man so sweet, so beautiful, he seemed to come from another world. We had one night: intense, scary, real. Then I ran, like I always do. Because I didn’t want to be abandoned again.

But I couldn’t run far enough.

I knew him as Evan that night. When I walked into his classroom, he became Mr. Wilke.

My teacher.

I don’t know if what we’re doing is wrong. The law says one thing; my heart says screw the law. I can’t let him lose his job. And I can’t lose him.

In the movies, this would have a happy ending. I grow up. I love, I lose, I learn. And I move on. But this is life, and there’s no script. You make it up as you go along.

And you don’t pray for a happy ending. You pray for it to never end.

My Thoughts

This story will suck you in from the very first page and grip you by your throat until the very end! I could not put it down. I fell hard and easily in love with these characters. Maise O’Malley, the protagonist, is a girl who is living a pretty fucked up existence. Her mom is a drug addict and a dealer, her dad is nonexistent and she wants, no she needs to find an out. She has a plan, one that will get her far away but she never imagines her world will be turned upside down.

Maise has played grown up for so long it’s become second nature. Everything about her screams adult. Her thoughts, her feelings even her choice in men. At eighteen, Maise thinks she has it all figured out, she’s experienced more in her short life than most adults have endured in a lifetime. It isn’t until a chance encounter with a mysterious man that her world forever changes.

Evan Wilke enters Maise’s world in a burst of color. The attraction is instant but there is something about this stranger, a longing she never imagined she was capable of feeling. Evan has his secrets, his demons and his past but he is drawn to her from the minute they meet. He wants to unlock the mystery that is Maise, but she knows it may be too good to be true, too good to last. Evan consumes her thoughts, she never in her wildest dreams imagines she’d be walking straight into his classroom on her first day of senior year.

There are moments where the main characters are seriously playing with fire. I was on the edge of my seat screaming at them. There is such rawness to this book. A yearning that no matter the distance or boundaries can’t be ignored. This book has it all — drama, passion, love and everything in between. You spend the entire book questioning everything you’ve ever believed was wrong but rooting that these two broken people find a way to be together because somewhere along the lines they help each other begin to live! I am still having withdrawal! This book takes you on a thrill ride you never want to end. There are moments where you will question your own views of love, happiness and what lengths you will go to be happy, to be with the one you love? How can two broken people help repair a lifetime of pain?

Leah Raeder writes beautifully. She transports you into a world where you see vivid colors. Not black, not white, not even the shades of grey in between, but a colorful lively world filled with beautiful imagery. I wanted to live in this world; she made even the most painful moments beautiful. What an incredible read! I cannot express to you how much I adore this book. I was terrified reading it. The closer I got to the ending, the more unsure I felt that this would be a HEA. I won’t speak on which direction this book takes, I will only say that this is a book that EVERY New Adult fan and EVERY Contemporary Romance fan MUST read! I give it way beyond 5 stars this book is provocative, enticing, and enlightening. Leah I eagerly await the release of your next book! You’ve made a lifelong fan…

Buy Unteachable now for Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble Nook | Smashwords | Kobo

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.

About the Author

Writes pretentiously lyrical YA and adult fiction of various genres. Loves zombies, velociraptors, and other world-ending things. Copies her bio from Twitter because she’s lazy.

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Giveaway

Enter Here

Aug 14 2013

Geoducks Are For Lovers Blog Tour & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Food writer Maggie Marrion is just getting back on her feet after a horrible year, or two, or three. With their twentieth reunion approaching, she invites four of her closest friends from college for a weekend at her beach cabin. What she doesn’t expect is her best friends, artist Quinn Dayton and part-time erotica novelist, Selah Elmore, to play matchmaker. The two plot a surprise that will make the weekend, and her life, a lot more interesting.

Gil Morrow, former grunge musician turned history professor, joins them as Selah’s date for the weekend. After coming face to face with the one who got away, he decides he’s waited long enough to get the girl. With the support of old friends, a few wishing rocks, the world’s largest burrowing clam, and a hot lumberjack thrown into the mix, Gil reminds Maggie that forty-something isn’t too old for second chances.

Can we learn to love the life we have and let go of who we expected to be? What happens when the generation from The Breakfast Club and Reality Bites meets The Big Chill? Come spend a weekend with these Generation X-ers as they share laughter, tears, life’s ups and downs, old stories, and new beginnings.

Purchase Geoducks Are for Lovers for Kindle | Paperback

Tour Giveaway:

Enter Here

About the Author

Daisy Prescott

Before writing full time as a freelance content creator, Daisy worked in the world of art, auctions, antiques, and home decor. She earned her degree in Art History and endured a brief stint as a film theory graduate student. Baker, art educator, antiques dealer, blue ribbon pie baker, fangirl, content wrangler, gardener, wife, and pet mom are a few of the titles she’s acquired over the years.

Daisy and her husband (aka SO) currently live in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with their rescue dog, Hubbell, and an imaginary house goat. Geoducks are for Lovers is her first novel. She is currently at work on her second novel set in Ghana.

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To see other stops on the tour for reviews, guest posts, and excerpt click here or the tour button below.

Aug 09 2013

Mandatory Release Book Tour, Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis

With appeal for fans of Jonathan Tropper, Tom Perrotta, and Laurie Notaro, this snarky mashup of Girls and Oz is so painfully honest you might think you’re reading a memoir—except the author isn’t a smart-ass guy in a wheelchair who works in a prison.

Recently paralyzed in a car accident, thirty-year-old Graham Finch spends his days trying to rehabilitate a caseload of unruly inmates and his nights on one bad date after another, attempting to rehabilitate his heart—until his high school crush Drew Daniels walks through the prison gates one hot summer morning. On the run from a painful past that’s nearly crushed her faith in love, Drew is a new teacher at Lakeside Correctional. Graham, smitten all over again, tries to redirect his unrequited feelings. But when your heart keeps looking back, it’s not easy to turn it forward.

Amidst escalating violence at work, Drew is forced to confront her secrets, find a way to forgive old sins, and learn how to listen to her heart and her head when it comes to men. Graham must also learn to make peace with his own past. Together they realize that if you’re going to save yourself, sometimes the best way to do it is by saving someone else first. If only finding their way to one another was easier than working with convicted felons.

Loaded with twisted humor and pathos, Mandatory Release is a darkly comic, unexpectedly sexy love story about broken people putting themselves back together. People who learn that no matter what you lock up—a person, a secret, or your heart—sooner or later, everything must be released.

OR, in 25 words: Lad lit meets chick lit in this dark comedy about broken people who work in a dangerous place, finding hope where they least expect it.

My Thoughts

This was the first book I’ve read by Jess Riley and I fell in LOVE with this novel. She has just gained a faithful fan! I don’t know how to adequately describe my feelings after reading this book but I will try my best…

Graham and Drew were friends in high school. Back then, Graham had it bad for Drew but she was always unavailable. With Drew’s return and her new job in such close proximity to Graham’s his old feelings resurface. Can Drew look past the man in the wheelchair, and remember the man before the injury? The one who makes her laugh, the one she feels utterly and completely comfortable with, the one she can talk to, could he be more than a friend?

This book is filled with witty and playful banter, comical inner monologues and general humor. Drew and Graham have some hilarious moments but it never distracts the reader from the intensity of the novel. The book touches on some pretty heavy topics but the focus remains primarily on how these two broken people help each other find their way back to happiness and open their hearts to the possibility of more…

Prison.

A topic not usually associated with a novel of this caliber. (Romance/Contemporary Romance) I felt that the author delivered exceptionally well given the topic. Her accurate descriptions/experiences bring you into a world that makes you question everything you’ve ever thought or experienced. How easily could you end up on the opposite side of the law? To what extent would you feel compassion towards inmates like those described in this book? Were your initial views skewed? What constitutes a criminal? I have my own views on this topic but I found myself pondering some of these questions. When an author can make me think that much while still enjoying a novel, I’d say mission accomplished!

There were times when I felt I had time warped to my early existence, with cleverly crafted reminders of the 80s and 90s…like Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers, Punky Brewster and honorable mention of bands/artists that didn’t suck! I highly recommend this book for everyone. It touches upon some heavy issues while bringing you back to earth reminding you of simple things we take for granted. This is an edgy, heartfelt romance. I highly recommend…will be added to my must read list!

Buy Mandatory Release for Kindle | Paperback

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Happy Reading!

About the Author

Jess Riley’s experiences teaching in a medium-security prison inspired the novel Mandatory Release. Her debut novel (Driving Sideways, now in its fourth printing) was published by Random House in 2008. She lives in Oshkosh, Wisconsin with her husband and nutty Cairn Terrier in a 130-year-old money pit farmhouse. When she’s not writing novels, she’s a Grant Writer for school districts nationwide.

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