Nov 14 2013

For Real Release Day Blitz

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Two people. One fake relationship. What could go wrong?

When virgin Shannon Travers gets fed up with her friends demanding that she find a boyfriend, she enlists the help of tattooed, mohawk-rocking graphic design student Jett. He’s more than happy to play along with their Fake Relationship, including the Ten Rules of Fake Dating that control-freak Shannon comes up with. Even if he likes to violate them. Repeatedly.

But what happens when Fake Dating starts to feel… not fake anymore? Will Shannon be willing to let go and embrace the first thing in her life that’s ever felt REAL?

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About the Author

Chelsea M. Cameron is a YA/NA New York Times/USA Today Best Selling author from Maine. Lover of things random and ridiculous, Jane Austen/Charlotte and Emily Bronte Fangirl, red velvet cake enthusiast, obsessive tea drinker, vegetarian, former cheerleader and world’s worst video gamer. When not writing, she enjoys watching infomercials, singing in the car and tweeting (this one time, she was tweeted by Neil Gaiman). She has a degree in journalism from the University of Maine, Orono that she promptly abandoned to write about the people in her own head. More often than not, these people turn out to be just as weird as she is.

Her New Adult Contemporary Romance titles include My Favorite Mistake, which has been bought by Harlequin along with a sequel, Deeper We Fall and Faster We Burn (April 20, 2013)

Her Young Adult books include Nocturnal, Nightmare and Neither, the first three books in The Noctalis Chronicles. The fourth and final book, Neverend will be out in 2013. Whisper, the first in The Whisper Trilogy is also available, with the second book in the series, Silence and the final book, Listen coming out in 2014.

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GIVEAWAY

Grand prize winner receives a $100 Amazon Gift Card and Crane bracelet.
5 Runners up receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card and Crane bracelet. US Only!

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Nov 06 2013

Impossibly Love Book Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

Synopsis

All Moya Douglas wants to do is study hard, maintain her scholarship, and make her mother proud while attending college. She doesn’t have time for a boyfriend or going on dates arranged by her best friend. Moya doesn’t believe in love. And she has no intention of ever finding it.

Branden McCarthy is determined to change her views.
A selfless romantic who’s had his heart broken in the past, Branden is fascinated with Moya’s personality and hopes to develop something real with her—a connection so strong it’ll open her heart. But just when things start to work between the two, Branden’s secret threatens to get in the way.

Will Moya finally do the impossible and give love a chance with Branden, or will fear keep them apart?

Review

Just in case I haven’t mentioned it before…I adore this book cover…and the book!

Where do I begin? This book is something I read and felt as though I knew the characters personally. It is a sweet and well nurtured romance, but it is definitely more clean than most new adult romances. However, this does not take away from the story. It focuses more on the emotional side of a romance than the sexual and I really enjoyed the book just the same.

Initially, you will feel that Moya is a really angry person, but you don’t know exactly why. Her experiences and disappointments have left her bitter and unwilling to attempt dating. She’s headstrong, beautiful and unwilling to commit to anyone. She’s decided it’s best to stay away for any and all men. She pushes away anyone that tries to get close to her and refuses to date…until Branden.

Branden is completely taken by Moya and he doesn’t know why. He feels a sort of pull to her and wants more than anything for her to open up to him. He tries to gain her attention and refuses to give up until she agrees to a date. Moya fights her growing feelings for him, but eventually he wears her down and she begins to show bits and pieces of a kinder, gentler Moya. The real Moya who has been hurt and is looking for someone who won’t leave. I loved that things weren’t simple for these two. Branden stole my heart. The problem is…Branden has a secret, one that could hurt an already deeply scarred Moya. He’s determined never to hurt her, but he cares so deeply for her it’s tearing him apart. He’s unsure if exposing his secret will ruin everything they’ve tried to build. Slowly he finds the hardest decision he may ever make is having to let her go. How can he keep her in his life when he isn’t sure what direction his will take?

The best part of this read is watching these two fall…and hard. I loved that we got dual perspectives. It’s always nice to get a glimpse into the minds of multiple characters. These two went through a lot and the book leaves you rooting for their happy ever after.

I have to say one of my favorite characters in the book aside from Moya and Branden is Nessa, Moya’s best friend. She is one of those characters that everyone can laugh at and say I have a friend just like her. She made some moments pretty funny, but she also upset me a few time in the book, BUT you can tell she truly loves Moya and just wants her to be happy. This book takes not only Moya, but also Branden, on a journey of love and self awareness/discovery. I really loved reading their story and I can’t wait for more!

I found this to be a quick read for me. The book left me completely satisfied, but the teaser for book two left my jaw open. Shane, you left me hanging! I am eager to get my hands on book two. I was happy to both beta read and tour this book it is a great read and I can’t wait for part two of Branden and Moya’s story! I highly recommend this read to all my New Adult/romance fans.

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

Buy Impossibly Love Now

About the writer:
Shane Morgan’s love for writing started the moment she picked up a Nancy Drew book. At a young age, she began writing short stories, delving into a variety of genres: from comedy and drama, to horror and contemporary romance. Shane’s quite intrigued by the otherworldly or things otherwise deemed “impossible.” Well, in her opinion, people never really grow up, do they?

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Nov 05 2013

The Edge of Always Excerpt & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

We have an excerpt and giveaway to celebrate the release of

THE EDGE OF ALWAYS

The highly anticipated release by New York Times Bestselling Author

J.A. Redmerski!

Publisher: Forever Romance
Release: November 5, 2013

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author J. A. Redmerski brings us the second book in her heart-wrenching series about two 20-somethings who find each other in their darkest moment.

Camryn Bennett has never been happier. Five months after meeting on a Greyhound bus, she and her soul mate Andrew Parrish are engaged-and a wedding isn’t the only special event in their future. Nervous but excited, Camryn can’t wait to begin the rest of her life with Andrew, a man she knows in her heart will love her always. They have so much to look forward to-until tragedy blindsides them.

Andrew doesn’t understand how this could happen to them. He’s trying to move on, and thought Camryn was doing the same. But when Andrew discovers Camryn is secretly harboring a mountain of pain and attempting to numb it in damaging ways, there is nothing he won’t do to bring her back to life. Determined to prove that their love can survive anything, Andrew decides to take Camryn on a new journey filled with hope and passion. If only he can convince her to come along for the ride…

Excerpt

I turn to Andrew again, waiting for him to spit it out. A cold breeze rushes through my knitted sweater, and I hide my hands inside the sleeves.

“You have five minutes to throw all of your stuff in your bag,” he says, and my heart is beating erratically before he finishes the sentence. He taps his wrist where there is no watch. “Not a second more.”

“Andrew—”

“This isn’t up for debate,” he says. “Go get your stuff.”

I just look at him, face blank.

My theory was right, but I didn’t want it to be. I don’t want to go on the road…I mean, I do…but it’s not right. It’s just not right.

“You have four minutes now.”

“But we can’t just leave like this,” I argue. “It would be rude.” I point at Asher. “And Asher just got here. Don’t you want to visit with—”

“I can visit my big brother anytime,” Asher counters. “Right now, I think you better do what he says or you might end up on the road wearing the same panties for a week.”

A few more seconds pass and I still haven’t moved. I’m in a state of mild shock, I guess.

“Three minutes, babe,” Andrew says and is looking at me with a serious face. “I’m not kidding. Get up there, throw our shit in our bags, and get in the damn car.”

Oh hell, he’s back to his old self again…

When I start to argue again, Andrew’s eyes get all feral-looking, and he says, “Hurry up. Time’s running out!” and he points to the house.

Finally, letting down my guard and going with the moment as much as I can allow myself, I glare at him and say, “Fine.” I’m only agreeing to it because I know he’s trying make things better. But I feel guilty as hell.

Disregarding his playful five-minute demand, I turn on my heels and walk very slowly back toward the house, purposely taking my time, partly my way of silently arguing the situation.

I push open the bedroom door, set my bag on the bed, and start stuffing everything inside of it. Then I go into the bathroom and grab our toothbrushes and various bathroom necessities. I yank our phone chargers from the wall and then my phone from the nightstand and chuck it all into my purse. I make my way around the room, hoping that I’m not missing anything.

Looks like Andrew already packed his stuff at some point and I never noticed.

Then I just stand here, scanning every inch of the place around me but not really seeing any of it. I don’t want to do this, but maybe it’s the right thing.

I hear the horn honk three times, and it snaps me out of my thoughts. Grabbing my bag, I swing it over my shoulder and grab my purse from the bed.

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About the Author

J.A. Redmerski, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author lives in North Little Rock, Arkansas with her three children, two cats and a Maltese. She is a lover of television and books that push boundaries and is a huge fan of AMC’s The Walking Dead.

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Oct 31 2013

Impossibly Love Excerpt & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

Synopsis
All Moya Douglas wants to do is study hard, maintain her scholarship, and make her mother proud while attending college. She doesn’t have time for a boyfriend or going on dates arranged by her best friend. Moya doesn’t believe in love. And she has no intention of ever finding it.

Will Moya finally do the impossible and give love a chance with Branden, or will fear keep them apart?

About the Author

Shane Morgan is a lover of “interesting” books. Her imagination is always running wild so it’s best to collect and organize them into separate stories.

Shane’s love for writing started the moment she picked up a Nancy Drew book. At a young age, she began writing short stories, delving into a variety of genres: from comedy and drama, to horror and contemporary romance. Shane’s quite intrigued by the otherworldly or things otherwise deemed “impossible.” Well, in her opinion, people never really grow up, do they?

WordPress | Goodreads

Excerpt

Moya’s eyes widened when I spun her around to face me. It was obvious what I was about to do and I knew very well she wouldn’t let it happen without a fight. Her attempts at being freed were futile as my hold increased the more she squirmed in my arms.

“Let go!” she demanded.

I blew hard, eager to drown myself in the sweetness of her lips. Dismissing her protest—and the little voice at the back of my head telling me not to—I shoved my mouth to hers and kissed her hungrily.

Moya lifted her hands to my chest and pushed tentatively, and just as fast they began to lower. I knew she couldn’t resist the deep passion evoking between us. Finally, she yielded, and I wrapped my arms even tighter around her as Moya parted her lips and allowed me to enter.

We groaned as our tongues collided, touching each other wildly as if the kiss was not only our first but our last. Moya placed her hands on my lower back, touching me sensually with her fingertips as she worked her way up my spine. She caressed the back of my neck, and then combed her fingers seductively through my hair.

By the time the kiss ended, we were both panting, trying to breathe steadily.

Moya wobbled as she backed away. “I have to get to class,” she whispered shakily as if under a trance.

I released her with regret and watched as Moya turned and started up the path, staggering along the way.

Afterwards, I dragged my thumb lightly along my lips, eyes fastened on Moya as she walked away. I could still feel the heat of her skin on mine, giving light to a fire of pleasure that threatened to make my hands shake in memory of her taste.

Motivated by the promise of her presence, I walked up the path as well, following behind the girl I was indisputably falling hard for and fast.

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Oct 25 2013

Impossibly Love by Shane Morgan: Book Trailer Reveal

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

Release date: October 29th, 2013
Publisher: TSW Books
Genre: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary
Available in Paperback, Kindle

Will Moya finally do the impossible and give love a chance with Branden, or will fear keep them apart?

About the Author
Shane’s love for writing started the moment she picked up a Nancy Drew book. At a young age, she began writing short stories, divulging in a variety of genres; from comedy, drama, to horror and romance. She’s quite intrigued by the otherworldly or things otherwise deemed “impossible.”

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TRAILER

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Oct 10 2013

Riptides: A Lengths Novella (LENGTHS #4.5) Exclusive Excerpt

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Release Date: October 15, 2013

RIPTIDES Synopsis:

Enzo Rodriguez doesn’t take much seriously–unless it involves waves, boards, or good beer. When too-hot-to-handle Jessica Mills strolls into his life, Enzo is willing to forego all of those things for every second he can spend with her. But Jessica has a huge secret–and when it’s revealed, it not only crushes Enzo, but has the last person he wants to ask a favor of–his brother-in-law Adam–bailing him out of jail. Enzo is convinced that the only way to mend his bruised ego and heart, is to pack his bags and leave the turbulent waters of Silver Strand…for good.

Exclusive Excerpt

I pull her into my arms and, now that we’re done talking, we keep ourselves busy with other things. Like stripping each other naked.

“What if I get another customer?” Jess asks, her breath skipping and her words stuttering. “What if someone comes to the door?”

“Want me to lock up?” I offer.

“You’re naked, Enzo,” she giggles, gazing down at my body appreciatively. I’m glad I’ve been able to work less and surf more lately, even if she did call me a bum for it. “The entire front of the store is plate glass.”

“I have zero body issues.” I hold my arms out at my sides. “Give me the keys.”

She chews on that lower lip. “I don’t think anyone is coming. Don’t worry about it.”

“Ah. You’re afraid other ladies might get a glimpse? Storm the place?” I nod. “Want to keep me trapped back here in your…love bakery?”

Her laugh rings out. “You’re ridiculous. But, since you’re in my bakery, I should probably do a little work on you.”

“A little work?” I watch her saunter to the fridge and rifle around.

Author Bios:

Steph Campbell grew up in Southern California, but now calls the Northeast home. She has one husband, four children and a serious nail polish obsession.

She’s repped by Kevan Lyon at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.Steph’s works include Delicate, Grounding Quinn and Beautiful Things Never Last; My Heart for Yours and My Fate for Yours (with Jolene Perry); A Toast to the Good Times (with Liz Reinhardt) and the bestselling new adult LENGTHS series with Liz Reinhardt: Lengths, Depths, Limits and coming soon: Riptides & Drift.

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—

Liz Reinhardt was born and raised in the idyllic beauty of northwest NJ. A move to the subtropics of coastal Georgia with her daughter and husband left her with a newly realized taste for the beach and a bloated sunscreen budget. Right alongside these new loves is her old, steadfast affection and longing for bagels and the fast-talking foul mouths of her youth.She loves Raisinettes, even if they aren’t really candy, the Oxford comma, movies that are hilarious or feature zombies, any and all books, but especially romance (the smarter and hotter, the better), the sound of her daughter’s incessantly wise and entertaining chatter, and watching her husband work on cars in the driveway.She is the author of the Brenna Blixen series (Double Clutch, Junk Miles, Slow Twitch), the Youngblood series (Fall Guy, Perfectly Unmatched), and co-writes with the awesome Steph Campbell in the Lengths series (Lengths, Depths, Limits, Ties, Riptides).

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Oct 02 2013

Mystery Book Revealed…My Book Review of Genna Rulon’s Only For You (For You Series #1)

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

“In its purest form love is self-sacrificing, eternal, selfless, enduring, truthful, forgiving and indulgent. It also feels an awful lot like a kick to the stomach when you try to fight it!”

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she carefully planned.

When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar by her best friend, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh’s biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, a tempestuous relationship is born.

Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate—that fickle shrew—continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she declares Hunter an enemy combatant. The only complication…Hunter is resolutely pursuing vindication…by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh’s ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal.

Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption—brimming with intelligent characters, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love’s unassailable perseverance.

My Review

For those of you that follow me on Facebook, I made a comment on Monday night about a book that I read that is amazing. If you didn’t catch the comment it was…

“Holy shit you guys I just read an amazing book and the review will be up this week!!!! Omg! I’m, I’m, I’m speechless…..”

I later followed up my comment with this photo:

Although for me, I was experiencing emotional trauma at the hands of my kindle…

I know, it was wrong of me not to share the details (title/author), but I felt I needed a moment to absorb the weight of the book and express myself in a way that did justice to how amazing this book is.

I guess I should actually mention the book is Genna Rulon’s debut novel Only For You and it is a fantastic debut!

There is always one book that absolutely blows your mind when you finish, you sit back for a moment to reflect but all you can think is…”wow.” After reading Genna Rulon’s Only For You I must say it left me speechless. I was completely taken by surprise. The book was so unlike anything I could have imagined. I’m not saying it was the storyline that got to me, rather it was the authors language, her use of wit, sarcasm and even the general sense of intelligence through her writing. I actually discussed with her briefly via email how a lot of new adult books were beginning to disinterest me as too many had similar plots and even dialogue. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a die hard fan of new adult books but I am at a point where I read so many books a week that when I read an ARC or even a book I purchase of my own accord it needs to completely blow me away for me to seriously consider it great. I found a gem amongst stones in Only For You. This book is unique in plot, dialogue, and it completely shocked the hell out of me. I am usually very good at figuring out how a book will end or what direction it will go in about midway through reading I usually figure it all out…sometimes earlier. This book took so many turns it was difficult to know where it would end and my jaw dropped close to the end at some revelations that were made. I was suspicious of ever person in this book at one point or another. I won’t be giving away any spoilers, but it ended beautifully and made me scream that I’ll have to wait until December for the next installment.

This book is a complex blend of romance, mystery, friendship and anguish. There are moments that will have you cackling while other moments will leave you in tears, though I may have actually laughed so hard it brought me to tears. The blooming friendship/romance, witty dialogue, inner monologues and suspicions will have you holding your breath and leave your heart racing. I experienced all of these emotions while reading Only For You. You may have a similar experience, you may experience only one or two of the above-mentioned emotions but you certainly will have a rather emotional experience after reading this book.

Only For You is it’s classified as a new adult book but I firmly believe it could fall outside of the romance genre to bordering mystery, suspense and even sociology/abuse. The book was REAL. I mean it had some really raw, really fucked up moments that made you want to cry out for the people afflicted. I certainly cried but I also laughed so much while reading this book. The witty banter between characters is unmatched to any book I’ve ever read and I have read some hilarious books, but this one took the cake winning my nomination for wittiest, most sarcastic dialogue….

Only For You provided a moment of sheer bliss for me…ok maybe more than a moment. I adored this book. I seriously devoured it and I want seconds!!! It is an experience I am still reeling from. I loved the main characters and can’t wait for the follow-up. There are so many stories I want to hear and I am so smitten over Hunter and Griffin! I’ve officially slutted myself out to them mentally! Yeah that’s right they don’t call me Book Whore for no reason! Genna…I want more…no, I need more!!!!

With that said, Only For You is probably one of the best new adult books I’ve read to date. I give it 5 stars, 2 thumbs up, 10 fingers and toes lol. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a suspenseful romance with twists, turns and some heartache along the way while leaving you with an ending that will make your jaw drop, your heart smile and your stomach flutter. I actually think I am going to read it again having discovered a few things…I may notice even more the second time around!

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

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Quotes from Only For You:

“When someone tells you something about themselves don’t want to hear—believe them.”

“You’re going to listen to me, and for once you’re going to hear what I say and not read between lines that aren’t there.”

“I was a fool, alone, preparing to do what every fool did at such times—I was going to a bar to drink myself smart.”

“He had a skull and crossbones label on him, but I drank his poison nevertheless and loved it; now I needed an antidote.”

“If you don’t remember your value, no one else will. Don’t ever settle, Ev. You’re far too precious a treasure to squander.”

“You’ll continue to be a bitch no matter what, but I’m glad you aren’t a callous, self-absorbed one.”

“I stepped off the merry-go-round for a reason. It made me dizzy and I kept ending up in the same spot. It may have been fun for a short ride, but was never headed anywhere.”

“Jose had loosened my tongue; curse him, the ninety proof bastard.”

“We played hot potato with my heart—me throwing it to him, him tossing it back to me. Every time the music stopped, I was always the one holding the bruised organ, out of the game.”

About the Author:

After 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, an avid reader, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by the success of her favorite authors, many of whom are self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations.

Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most extraordinary family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on (he even feigns interest relatively convincingly). Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy’s writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

All of Genna’s novels are brought to you courtesy of coffee and Disney Junior.

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The second book in the series, Pieces For You (For You Series #2), is scheduled to be released in December 2013.

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.

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Sep 05 2013

Jessica Sorensen’s Release Week Blitz for BREAKING NOVA & iPad Mini Giveaway!!!

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

Synopsis

Nova Reed used to have dreams-of becoming a famous drummer, of marrying her true love. But all of that was taken away in an instant. Now she’s getting by as best she can, though sometimes that means doing things the old Nova would never do. Things that are slowly eating away at her spirit. Every day blends into the next … until she meets Quinton Carter. His intense, honey brown eyes instantly draw her in, and he looks just about as broken as she feels inside.

Quinton once got a second chance at life — too bad he doesn’t want it. The tattoos on his chest are a constant reminder of what he’s done, what he’s lost. He’s sworn to never allow happiness into his life … but then beautiful, sweet Nova makes him smile. He knows he’s too damaged to get close to her, yet she’s the only one who can make him feel alive again. Quinton will have to decide: does he deserve to start over? Or should he pay for his past forever?

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Excerpt

I get caught up in it all—in her—and suddenly I’m pressing my lips against hers. I’ve done this a lot before, as a way to distract myself from my life. But this isn’t the same. This means something, but I’m still trying to figure out what and if I want it or even deserve to get it.

At first she stiffens, but then she hooks her arms around the back of my neck and inches closer, opening her mouth to me as she spreads her legs open and my hands travel higher toward the bottom of her shorts. She tastes like beer and smells like pot. Tristan’s gone but he could come back at any moment. I should stop this. I should care enough to stop Tristan from seeing this, but my will to care about doing the right thing at this moment has died. My thoughts are blurred by the lingering high and the scent and feel of Nova. All I seem to care about is caressing her tongue with mine and feeling her skin because it’s soft and soothing and in another life I’d touch it all the time.

I’m about to pull away, because emotions are prickling inside me, when she swings her leg over me so she’s straddling my lap, then she grips the sides of my neck and pulls me closer. She kisses me fiercely, to the point where it feels like my lips are going to bruise, then she’s crushing her chest against mine as she gently rocks her hips. I dig my fingers into her waist, bringing her even closer, before I push her back, breaking the connection of our lips.

She’s panting, wild-eyed, her hair falling out of the braid. She glances to the side at Tristan’s empty chair and then looks back at me.

“We should stop,” I say, but it sounds like a lame attempt, my voice drifting off at the end.

“W-why?” She stutters a protest and I have to admit that it’s nice there are no tears in her eyes. “I don’t want to.”

I brush her hair back from her eyes and let my fingers linger on the bruise on her cheek. “You don’t even know me, Nova. I’m no good for you… you deserve so much better.” Please run away. Because I can’t seem to do it myself.

Her jaw tenses, like I struck a nerve. “I think I should get to decide that.”

“Whether I’m good enough for you?” I ask.

“Yeah, which I can only decide if I get to know you,” she says.

I motion my hand in front of myself, pressing the point. “This is pretty much it. What you see is what you get.”

“That’s never the case,” she disagrees, flattening her palms onto my bare chest right over the scar and my body goes rigid. “In fact, most of the time people hide who they really are.” Her throat bobs up and down as she swallows hard. “Most of the time you think you know someone, but you really have no clue.”

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About the Author

The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Jessica Sorensen, lives in the snowy mountains of Wyoming. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.

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Aug 13 2013

Out From Under You Book Blitz

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 3 Comments

Synopsis

“Love is an earthquake. It comes when you least expect it. It rips the ground clear away. Right out from under you.”

The day Lia Smart met Grayson Walker, eight years ago, was the day she fell helplessly in love with him. Coincidentally, it was the same day Grayson fell in love with someone else: Lia’s smarter, sexier, superior-in-every-way older sister, Alex.

Now, nearly a decade later, Alex and Grayson are long over and twenty-two-year-old Lia has finally managed to forget all those lonely nights she spent pining after her sister’s boyfriend. But when Grayson unexpectedly arrives back in town with Alex for Labor Day weekend and the two announce that they’re not only back together but engaged, all the feelings that Lia buried suddenly come bubbling back to the surface.

But Lia is no longer the awkward, gangly tomboy she was at fourteen. Far from it. And Grayson is conflicted by the lustful thoughts he’s now having for her. He knows he could never act on those thoughts, however. Grayson has always prided himself on being one of the “good guys.” But as the weekend wears on, he’s finding this new grown-up version of Lia more and more impossible to resist…

Heartbreaking and sexy with a dash of humor, Sophie Swift crafts a passionate, unforgettable tale about desire, growing up, and the kind of love that shakes us to the core.

Contains adult situations and explicit content. Recommended for ages 17+

Excerpt

Grayson

My chest hitches when I see her, barely visible in the porch light, lumbering down the walkway to the beach, the blackness of the night swallowing her up with each step.

I eye the door to the hallway.

The door to everything that happens after this moment.

I suddenly feel like my entire life will be decided by which side of it I’m on.

This side—right here where I stand—is the side I’ve always known. The one I have all the answers to. This is the side on which I marry Alex and she bears my children and we buy a town house in Brooklyn together. This is the side I always thought I wanted to be on.

And that side, over there—through that doorway, down those stairs, onto that beach—that is the side I know nothing about. A foreign land. With no certainties and no answers. The side that terrifies me.

My gaze drills into the wooden door. My skin feels hot. My mouth is dry. My fingers twitch.

And then suddenly, there is no more choice.

My body moves without permission from my mind.

In three paces I’m in the hallway. In ten juddered heartbeats I’m down the stairs. In a dizzying montage of choppy, breathless still frames, my bare feet stagger down the walkway, sinking into the cool sand.

Lia stands motionless at the edge of the water, staring out into the darkened horizon, as though she might find answers there. As though the world beyond this shore might make more sense. The full moon casts a faint light on the side of her face, causing her skin to glow.

The sand hides the sound of my heavy footfalls as I stride toward her.

When my hand tightens around her arm, she is startled but doesn’t scream. When I pull her around to face me, she opens her mouth to protest. To continue the tirade she began in the parking lot of the bar. But when my lips crush decisively against hers, claiming her with a consuming, covetous kiss, everything falls silent.

Only the waves dare to breathe. “

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One (1) ebook copy of Out from Under You. Open Internationally.
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About the Author

Sophie Swift is an east coast girl who recently transplanted to Southern California. She writes about sexy boys by day, and dates them by night. Her sizzling, new adult romance, OUT FROM UNDER YOU, the first in a new contemporary series, will be released in August of 2013. She loves books that quicken her pace, music sung by adolescent boys, and cupcakes with too much frosting. Visit her online at: www.SophieSwift.com

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Author Interview

1) Where did you get the idea for OUT FROM UNDER YOU?

I think the idea came from two different fascinations of mine: relationships between sisters, and the complexity of infidelity. My sister and I have always had a complicated relationship, something I wanted to explore in this book. But also I’ve always enjoyed books that blur the line between right and wrong when it comes to infidelity. So I set out to write one of those.

2) Why did you choose to write the book from alternating points of view (Grayson and Lia) and did you find one easier to write than the other?

You know, the book didn’t start out that way. Early on in the first draft, it was just Lia’s narrative. But for some reason, Grayson kept bugging me. Like he was in the back of my mind, poking me with a stick, wanting to be heard. So I sat down, started a new document, and wrote a scene from his point of view, just as an experiment. I ended up loving his voice so much, I simply had to find a way to work it into the story. After the decision was made to alternate points of view, I could almost see him smiling smugly, going, “See, I told you!”

In terms of who was easier, Lia was definitely more straightforward. Because she’s more like me. But Grayson was definitely the most fun. He surprised me so many times. So I think I looked forward to his voice the most.

3) Which fictional character do you have a secret crush on?

Any character played by Liam Hemsworth. God, that man is sexy. I pictured Grayson whenever I was writing his point of view. As a daily little treat to myself. J

4) What scene in the book is your favorite?

OH! That would definitely be the schmexy restaurant kitchen scene. That scene was not in my outline. It just kind of popped into my head as I was writing and I had to race to get it down fast enough. I don’t want to give anything away, but let’s just say there are some fairly creative uses for tomatoes that I still need to try out myself. J

5) If you could have dinner with one of your characters who would it be?

Um, Grayson! No contest! Not only is he smokin’ hot, he’s also a bit of a food connoisseur, so he would pick the best restaurants ever for our date. And since I know everything there is to know about him (because I’ve been inside his head) I would know all the best ways to seduce him. *Rubs hands together mischievously*

6) What’s up next for you?

I’m super excited about tackling book 2 in the Smart Girls Finish First series. Book 2 will be told from Alex’s point of view, Lia’s older sister. She was a really fun character to write as the antagonist in this book so making her the protagonist in the next book will be an entertaining challenge, I think! The rest of the books in the series will all feature young women in the Smart family. And since Alex and Lia’s father has four brothers, all with daughters, there are lots more stories to tell!

Aug 07 2013

Bare Assets by M.L. Stephens

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

*This book is intended for mature audiences (18+) contains adult language and sexually explicit material

With nothing but shattered dreams and a busted heart to fuel the way, Angela Fletcher drove out of Arkansas and never looked back.

Six years later, the new and improved version of the girl she used to be steered clear of romance, love and late night promises. The only pillow talk Angela engaged in these days, was making sure the person on the other pillow knew to lose her number as soon as he left the bed. She only had room for one love in her life and that was Bare Assets, the gentleman’s club she poured her heart and soul into.

Dean Murray was the devil in disguise and had left behind enough broken hearted women to populate a small country. Angela would know. She was an expert markswoman who was skillfully self-trained at shooting down the good, the bad and the ugly of all masculine targets. After all, as the owner of the most successful strip club in Dallas, Texas, it was her business to know men.

Just as she begins to fall for Dean’s silky words and passionate ways, her past and present unexpectedly collide and a meticulously planned future turns into unpredictable chaos. Is the smooth talking, denim wearing devil responsible for the chaos? Or have the secrets she left buried in Arkansas, coming back to haunt her?

Bare Assets is $2.99 for Kindle | Nook

Excerpt

Changing the subject before it became too serious, Angie opened the bedroom door and glanced over her shoulder. “I don’t know about you, but I haven’t had a single thing to eat all day. If I don’t get something soon, I’m going to eat the wood off this door.”

Grinning from ear to ear, he had to say it, “I have something to appease your appetite, but I’m afraid the door doesn’t play into my lust filled scenario.”

Laughing, she tightened the rope on her robe and wittily responded, “I would love to take part in your version of a meal, but I’m afraid I need to rely on the basic food groups for now.”

“And why is that?” he asked, joining her at the door.

“Something tells me that once I truly get a taste of you, I may never want to leave this room again.”

Author Bio:

I’m always clicking away at the keyboard, but when I’m not, my family, two dogs, and a very peculiar cat keep me on my toes! There’s never a boring moment at my desk!

Besides my obvious love for coffee and all things caffeinated, I love to travel. The occasional tourist stop is fun, but I’m a back road kind of gal. Take me off the beaten path. I want to meet the ordinary people behind the culture.

My crazy family includes a husband, four kids, two grandbabies, two dogs and a cat. That’s right. Life is totally insane, and so I write.

Speaking of writing, I’ve been spinning stories around the campfire since I can remember. Poetry was second nature and as a teen and young adult, short stories were constantly being penned. I’m an avid reader who loves almost all genres. Let’s face it! A good read is a good read, regardless of whether it takes place in the future, the present, the past or with ghosts.

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Aug 05 2013

Dead and Missing (Ripsters #2) Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 3 Comments

Date with the Dead (Ripsters #1)

Synopsis

Sixteen-year-old Jolie Livingston’s closest and only friend Drew is this really hot dead guy, and it bites that the self-absorbed princesses at school cannot even see him. That’s right she can communicate with the dead. It’s the living she has trouble with. She and her mom inherited this awesome crib in Plymouth, MA. It’s quite a step-up from the homeless shelter in New Orleans, but there’s a catch. They can’t afford the past due mortgage, so Jolie’s working on that.

She starts a ghost hunting business called Ripsters. Somehow she’s managed to recruit Brittany, a glamour SAP smothered in pink, and a techie allergic to ghosts. Brit actually thinks he resembles the R&B singer Chris Brown. All that pink has clouded her vision. They both have special talents Jolie’s hoping will be useful to their venture. Right now, they’re working for a family in need of major therapy due to a dead guy with a hole in his head.

What can I say? I love Young Adult books and I’ve somehow neglected them lately. I’ve been on such a New Adult kick that I almost forgot how much I love Paranormal YA books. This book had it all mystery, suspense, romance, action, it is a YA book that both boys and girls/men and women can equally enjoy. Though it is told entirely in Jolie Livingston’s perspective I felt the characters were engaging enough to cater to all readers. This book also has a lot of historical references which I thought was a good add in.

I love Drew. I think he was by far my favorite character. I love him so much I want him with Jolie but…he’s dead so there’s always that problem lol.

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Synopsis

Sixteen-year-old Brittany Howland only knows one other girl, Jolie Livingston, who can communicate with the dead like herself. When Brittany takes Jolie’s haunt fishing to get him out of Jolie’s hair, he mysteriously disappears. Brittany isn’t sure how she’ll tell Jolie she lost her stupid ghost. Jolie thinks her dead best friend Drew has finally crossed over, but Brittany knows better. Just before Drew went missing, he revealed why he hasn’t hitchhiked to the afterlife, a secret Brittany swore she’d take to the grave.

My Review

Where do I begin? This is the second installment of the Ripsters series. I loved Drew in Date with the Dead so this was a bit of a bonus read for me. I’ll be completely honest. I really liked this book but it took me a few chapters to fully get into the story. It starts in Brittany’s POV initially but eventually alternates between Jolie and Brittany’s POV. While I like Brittany, she isn’t my favorite character. As I said before Drew and Jolie are. This was a great follow up to Date With The Dead. Although I took a bit longer to get into this book I will say once I continued reading I was hooked. I was on the edge of my seat until the very end! I’m already dying to read the next installment!

I have a feeling book 3 will be amazing! I have my suspicions about Drew, and if I’m right things are only going to get more interesting! Keeping my fingers crossed for that one. I strongly recommend this book for YA Paranormal fans.

What happened?
Brittany takes Drew fishing one morning to give Jolie a break. After revealing a secret to Brittany, Drew mysteriously disappears but not before he’s sworn her to secrecy. Brittany suspects someone has taken Drew but Jolie believes he may have gone into the light. Brittany struggles with keeping his secret after his disappearance knowing it could prove Drew was taken. She knows it will alter things in a dramatic way if she does in fact tell Jolie. The story primarily shadows the efforts to find Drew while also dealing with The Ripsters developing powers, demons, The Infamous Guild and a father who’s resurfaced from out of nowhere…

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JSCbEKsguQ&w=560&h=315]

What I loved

Yet again, the historical references are really great, especially for younger readers.

I enjoyed this story, it is reminiscent of the Sookie Stackhouse novels but let’s just call it a tween version lol. It also reminds me of a modern day Scooby Doo and friends minus the dog lol. There is definitely romance and drama but less adult situations given the target audience. It’s an enjoyable book that I feel has enough action packed moments to appeal to young men and young women. I highly recommend following this series. I have a good feeling about this one!

What I hated

Chris, please release the next Ripsters book soon. I’m dying to know what happens!

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Chris Myers suffers from an overactive imagination. She spent her high school years writing torch songs for fantasy guys then moved onto writing thrillers and young adult. She has a real job but would love to write full time. Her books have won and placed in the finals and semifinals for several awards including Paul Gillette, Rocky Mountain Gold, and Amazon Breakthrough Novel. Chris lives in Colorado with her daughter, her better half, and BeBe, a rambunctious Bichon.

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