Articles

Oct 03 2013

Saving Amy Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Eighteen year old Amy’s surname may be Hope, but her life contains anything but. She drinks, she sleeps around, she cuts… anything to help her escape the agonizing existence growing up between her mother’s drunken wails and her father’s fists. But nothing works. There is no escape. And Amy wants out…

Enter Richard Lewis – the doctor responsible for saving Amy’s life after her drink and drug-fuelled suicide attempt. Thanks to his own hidden demons, Richard is drawn to Amy and her situation, and despite the incessant warnings from both his own mind and his jealous ex-lover Joanna, he feels compelled to help her.

But how will Amy feel when she discovers Richard’s attachment to her is born out of his own guilt? He was her last resort – her last chance at being saved. Can anybody save Amy, or has she finally reached the end of a very long, torturous road?

(Not recommended for younger readers due to language, scenes of self-harm and sexual content)

My Review

I’ll save you a repeat synopsis and say Saving Amy was a pretty intense read for me. It was heartbreaking and beautiful. This book has a lot of incredibly dark moments that made me fear for Amy’s life and well being. A lot of the choices she made early on shocked me, but they also let me know I was in for one hell of a ride.

Amelia Hope is all out of hope until the day she wakes up in Richard Lewis’ bed. Her world irrevocably changes from that day forward. Amy splits leaving his home and disappearing back to her hell of a world thinking she’ll never see him again. She continues on a destructive path that forces their worlds to collide.

Saving Amy isn’t just about Amy finding redemption, but Richard finding his own. Their need to save one another is where the beauty lies in this book. As hard as some moments are for each of them, they continue to find ways to help one another by offering constant support when guilt, fear or the pain of the past become too much to bear. The road isn’t easy for these two but well worth the read. Prepare yourselves for a very emotional ride. The book took a few surprising twists and turns but the end result was a beautifully put together masterpiece.

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About the Author

Nicola lives in Rochdale, England with her husband and four children (and dog!). She is the author of two stand alone novels, Inevitable and Saving Amy, and is currently having fun working on her first series with book one, Take My Hand, to be released in October. When not reading or writing Nicola can usually be found carrying out her daily slave duties – cleaning, feeding the mob, cleaning a bit more etc… or watching The Twilight Saga for the fifty-billionth time 🙂

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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.

Oct 01 2013

HER Cover Reveal (Carey Heywood)

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Release Date: October 26, 2013
Hosted by: Book Enthusiast Promotions

Synopsis

You know her side of the story, now learn his.

“It was useless. I felt branded beneath my skin by a girl who left without even saying goodbye.”

When Will Price was assigned a partner for a sixth grade class project he had no idea she would become his best friend. After years of friendship, she eventually became so much more. Then, one day she left with no explanation.

Will’s life shattered right before his eyes and he was left alone to pick up the pieces. Floundering, Will must figure out a way to carry on, to find a way to exist without her.

Seven years later, a chance encounter leaves him desperate to get her back. He has one week to make her his again. Not everyone gets a second chance with the love of their life and Will is determined to never lose her again.

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author. I make up stuff and write it down. Here are some things that make up who I am, in no particular order; Books, Swedish Fish, Rivers, Kids (I have some), Husband (I have 1), Dog, Wuss, Reader, Elephants, Mermaid Shows, Belgian Chocolate, Plastic Rings, Fizzy Water, Abs (I don’t have them…well yes, I have them but they’re nothing to look at I meant Abs that I like to look at), Twitter (@careylolo), Making up Words, Chair Dancing, Old Movies, Cartoons, Belgian Waffles, Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, People, Kayaks, Screen Porches, Laughing, Colored Paperclips, Junky Green Laptop, Golden Rule, Falling in Love, Jumping in Puddles, Spellcheck, Windy Days.

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Purchase book one of the HIM series

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Giveaway

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Sep 29 2013

Take It Off Series Tour featuring Author Playlist

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

f you can’t take the heat… stay away from the flame.

Katie Parks has been on her own since the age of fifteen. All she’s ever wanted is a place to call her own—a life that is wholly hers that no one can take away. She thought she finally had it, but with the strike of a single match, everything she worked so hard for is reduced to a pile of smoking ash. And she almost is too.

Now she’s being stalked by someone who’s decided it’s her time to die. The only thing standing in the path of her blazing death is sexy firefighter Holt Arkain.

Katie’s body might be safe with Holt… but her heart is another story.

As the danger heats up, sparks fly and the only thing Katie knows for sure is that her whole life is about to go up in flames.

Buy Torch Now:

TORCH PLAYLIST

I have a confession to make. I don’t listen to music when I write. I know. I’m super boring. I don’t listen to music because then I end up singing along, dancing in my panties and typing the words instead of actually writing the story.

That’s not really good for business and my children are traumatized every time I dance in my panties. (Oh please, you know you do it too).

Oh that and the fact that when I do listen to music its usually from Disney because thats what my kids want to hear! Save me now!!!!

So, this playlist isn’t really what I listened to while I wrote TORCH, because I listened to nothing.

But these are a few songs I think would go great with the book!

#1 Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

#2 Stronger by Kelly Clarkson

#3 It’s My Life by Bon Jovi – a tribute to firefighters

#4 Tip of my Tongue by Civil Wars

#5 Bruno Mars – It will Rain

#6 Strip Me by Natasha Bedingfield

#7 Adele- Set Fire to the Rain

So those are some of the songs I think goes well with Torch! Have you read TORCH? What do you think?

Synopsis

You can look, but you can’t touch…

Harlow is a broke college student. When her tuition assistance is taken away, she is faced with a choice: admit to her mother she couldn’t hack it on her own or make a lot of money fast.

So she gets a good-paying job.

As a stripper.

She thought it would be easy, but it turn out being sexy is a lot harder than she thought. When a few mishaps work in her favor, she manages to hang on to her job and catch the eye of the Mad Hatter’s best-looking bartender, Cam.

She’s also caught the eye of someone who wants to do more than look, someone who’s decided she’s nothing but a tease.

As the clothes come off, Harlow finds herself caught between list and murder, The only thing she knows for sure is that her new risqué job is a lot more than she bargained for.

Buy Tease Now:

TEASE PLAYLIST

These are a few songs I think would go great with Tease:

#1 Pour Some Sugar on Me by Def Leppard

#2 Let’s Get It On by Marvin Gaye

#3 I’m Too Sexy by Right Said Fred (you just LOL’ed didn’t you?)

#4 Fire by the Pointer Sisters

#5 Shook Me All Night Long by AC/DC

#6 Slave for You by Britney Spears

So what about you? What songs do you think would be good for a stripper book? LOL

About the Author

Cambria Hebert is the author of the young adult paranormal Heven and Hell series, the new adult Death Escorts series, and the new adult Take it Off series. She loves a caramel latte, hates math and is afraid of chickens (yes, chickens). She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair. She currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and children (both human and furry) where she is plotting her next book. You can find out more about Cambria and her work by visiting http://www.cambriahebert.com

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Giveaway

US only. Giveaway is for a TORCH necklace by Stone Soup Designs and a Swag pack
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Sep 28 2013

A Perfect Mess (A Perfect Secret Series, #1) Blog Tour & Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Release date: August 19, 2013
Publisher: Blue Moon Creative, LLC (self)

Synopsis
I know what you did last summer.
Aubree Walker, the perfect girl most likely to succeed, is sure there’s only one person who knows what she did.
Booker Outlaw, one of the three Outlaw brothers—all identical, all gorgeous, all from the wrong side of the tracks, and all pure bad boys. He was always the unpredictable one, the one who would be brash enough to make it big self-publishing horror novels on the internet. He promised never to tell, but everyone knows you can never trust an Outlaw.
Then a year later, in the middle of the night, she receives a phone call at Tulane. Her aunt, who took her in after her mother’s death, is in a coma under suspicious circumstances. Now she has to face that one person who knows all about what she did that summer—sexy Booker.
Returning to Hope Parish to be with her aunt, stirs up all those ugly memories. When Aubree starts getting threats, she can’t help but wonder if what she did last summer was tied to her aunt’s “accident.” Afraid, she turns to the only person who knows the truth and Booker doesn’t hesitate to offer his broad shoulder for her to lean on. But Booker has a secret of his own that could crush their fledgling relationship.
As the hot, sultry summer days move on, she finds that even a perfectly smart girl can lose her heart to a perfectly bad boy. What is she going to do when someone starts asking questions Aubree doesn’t want to answer? She’s knee deep into a terribly dangerous, wholly life changing, who-can-she-really-depend-on perfect mess.

Review

Aubree Walker has walked away from her life in Suttontowne, LA. She leaves for college attempting to drown out the memories of life before Tulane. She engulfs herself in her studies and work to avoid her life back home, carefully hiding behind the perfect life she’s built. Aubree makes excuse upon excuse to avoid returning home, but when an accident occurs involving her beloved aunt she must travel home for the first time in nine months. Nine months that she’s dreaded returning for fear of seeing him and facing what was done…Booker Outlaw, town bad boy, one third of “the unholy trinity” and the one who has undeniably stolen Aubree’s heart. The fear of facing him after the secret they share is overwhelming but when she comes face to face with Booker himself there’s no denying she’s in trouble.

Booker Outlaw has been smitten by Aubree Walker for as long as he can remember. She’s been placed in a category all her own. She’s so high on a pedestal that he can see no wrong when it comes to her, but he’s not the only one with a secret. Aubree has been hiding something from Booker for years. A secret she fears will change the way Booker sees her for good. She’s sure it will break him and what they’ve been working towards…whatever this is between them. Aubree has run from her feelings for him for so long that when things start to spiral out of control her world becomes a mess. She knows he is it for her, her perfect man, the one that will set the bar so high that no one will ever meet or exceed her expectations. He’s the one she’s waited for but is she ready to admit it to herself, to Booker? Aubree is far from perfect but maybe, just maybe, this life is her perfect.

This book is a splendid mix of romance, mystery and suspense. I loved Booker Outlaw and his brothers or “the unholy trinity” as they’ve been deemed. They’re sort of the band of misfits in a town that feeds off of rumors and gossip. Aubree sees past the town rumors, she sees the good in Booker and his brothers. Set in the deep south and filled with southern drawl and cajun dialect, this book will leave you completely satisfied yet wishing for more. I am eagerly awaiting the release of the second book in this series!

About the Author
Zoe Dawson is the alter ego of Karen Anders, award winning, multi-published author. Her writing journey started with poetry and branched out into fiction. With a couple of college English courses under her belt, she penned a historical, then moved onto contemporary romance fiction. Today, she is happy producing romantic suspense, romantic comedy/mystery, new adult, urban fantasy. The words feed her soul and the happily ever afters feed her heart.

Sep 27 2013

Just Once Cover Reveal

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

by Julianna Keyes and Omnific Publishing

Releasing October 29, 2013

Kate Burke is done making bad decisions. Thirty years old and belatedly determined to grow up, the successful travel writer and one-time party girl returns to work at the remote Ponderosa Pines Ranch to reassess her life.

Although her kitchen/cabin staff is lacking and the workload never relents, Kate’s main challenge is Shane Maddox, the ruggedly handsome and doggedly stubborn ranch foreman. Instantly at odds, they battle over everything from ceiling fans to bothersome bats—studiously ignoring the sparks they generate with each confrontation.

They can’t explain their explosive physical chemistry, but after a few frustrated weeks they can’t deny it either. Their solution? Just once. They’ll get past their inconvenient lust and move on.

Kate’s been trying to think with her head instead of her hormones, but is this just another bad decision in a lifetime of careless choices? Has she really changed at all?

Set in the striking and serene hills of southern Colorado, Julianna Keyes’ debut novel offers a sizzling and satisfying tale of unexpected chemistry and the power of second chances. Her characters will get under your skin and into your heart. Just once may not be enough for you either.

About the Author

Julianna Keyes is a Canadian writer who has lived on both coasts and several places in between. She’s been skydiving, bungee jumping, and white water rafting, but nothing thrills—or terrifies—her as much as the blank page. She has volunteered in Zambia, taught English in China, and dreams of seeing pink dolphins in the Amazon. This is her first book.

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Sep 26 2013

Unspoken Memories Cover Reveal

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

She awoke with only one clue about who she was, and that one clue led her to him…

Abigail Adams had it all, she’s a gorgeous supermodel, has a wealthy fiancé, and a career on the rise. But that quickly changes when she wakes up in the hospital not remembering anything. The only memories she does have are not her own, but the ones that lead her to him.

After Abigail discovers that her fiancé has been cheating on her, she leaves him and runs to the arms of the one man she is hoping will give her the answers she seeks.

Matt Garcia is used to playing the field, but then supermodel Abigail Adams unexpectedly shows up at his door hoping he will be the answer to her past. Will he finally learn to take a break from his no strings attached lifestyle and show her that she doesn’t need her past, but the future he is willing to offer her? Will he be able to leave his past behind?

With every unspoken memory she regains, will she learn to open her heart to Matt and trust him, or will she learn to guard it until he finally learns to let go of his past?

Excerpt for Unspoken Memories

I sit there in silence, giving them time to absorb everything I’ve said.

Trying to distract myself again from the tension beginning to build up inside, I begin to look around the room. I notice on one of the walls is a wall hanger, with a whole bunch of medals hanging from them. I walk over to them and start looking at them. As I’m doing this I get another memory.

This one is of Matt and me. A crowd of people surrounds us, as a medal is being placed around my neck. I feel ecstatic as I hug him. I’m looking behind him at the big banner that says “Portland Marathon” in big green letters. It’s a finish line, and by the year on the banner it was just last year.

Excited, I turn to face Matt, this must be where we met. Even though I don’t remember reading anything on Google that said I was a runner. “We ran the Portland Marathon together last year, that’s where we must have met.”

He gets up and comes over, standing next me and begins concentrating on the medals with me.

“No, we didn’t,” he clips out, keeping his eyes on the medals.

“Yes, we did, you’re in my memory and we’re crossing the finish line together.” At least I’m pretty sure we did. “They gave us our medals together and we are hugging.”

Matt looks back at me with a fierce glare. His chest is beginning to rise and fall, and he’s shaking his head. His eyes turn glassy like he wants to cry, but he’s fighting to hold it back. “I didn’t run it with you,” he insists, staring at me in disbelief, and irritation laces his voice. “I ran it with my sister. It was the last race we ran together.”

Oh shit! Then why am I having this vision? It has to mean something, I was pretty sure it was my memory. It felt so real.

“Are you sure? I’m pretty sure I’m right. I clearly see the memory. It was only last year, and I’m pretty sure I was there with you. “Can I be wrong? No, I wasn’t asleep when I got this one, so I know it has to be an actual memory. “What about my dream of running with you in the park, that has to be real, right? There’s a trail in the background.”

This makes Matt angry and he walks away. “Now you’re fucking with me. Who’s been feeding you her info?”

“What are you talking about, nobody is feeding me info. I told you these are the things that I remember. The only things I remember. Besides you, and who is this she you keep referring to?”

Matt shakes his head and runs his hands through his hair. The other guy starts drinking from his beer again. He looks like he wants to put his two cents into the conversation, but he decides to stay quiet. He’s trying to absorb everything, and so am I.

“Look, there is no way you would have those memories unless somebody told you about them.”

He goes quiet but then his eyes light up, like he’s just realized something. I’m soon disappointed when he says, “I get it. She must have done some designer shit for you. That’s when she must have mentioned that she ran the marathon. She talked about running to anybody who would listen.”

I shake my head in disagreement, wanting him to believe me.

Matt starts pacing the small space in the living room in front of the patio door. What is he talking about, and who would design something for me? I start biting my thumbnail and pacing the room next to him, but in the opposite direction, causing us to pass by each other. That’s when the other guy stands up from the couch.

“Dude, you guys need to stop that walking shit, you’re making me trip.”

I’m irritated again as I look over at him and snap, “Oh, shut it Trey, I’m trying to figure this out!”

He drops his beer and it lands on the floor with a loud thump. Matt’s body spins around fast, facing me, and he covers his mouth with a fist.

“Holy shit, she even sounded like her when she said that!”

Unspoken Memories is slated for release on October 11, 2013

About Gabbie S. Duran

I’m from a small town in Southern California. I currently live in Washington with my wonderful husband, two amazing kids and a senior citizen kitty. I started writing one day with no goal in mind. I just had an idea that would not get out of my head so I opened a notebook and wrote it down; that idea turned into another, turned into another and next thing I knew I had a book. When I am not writing you can find me reading. I LOVE to read, show me an author who doesn’t. You might catch me sneaking off for a run listening to whatever music happens to be playing or curled up on the couch watching Bones, when I am not trying to keep track of my husband or my kids. Some might say I live a crazy life, but I wouldn’t change a thing about it.

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Sep 25 2013

M. Leighton’s Wild Child (The Wild Ones, #1.5) Cover Reveal

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis:

Jenna Theopolis has always known what she wanted. Getting out of her small hometown of Greenfield was number one on her list of priorities. Until she met Rusty Catron.

Rusty’s fun-loving personality was the perfect match for Jenna’s inner wild child. But what started off as a summer fling quickly turns into something more. At least it does for Jenna.

Rusty has lived with the ghost of his father’s abandonment since he was a child, but now he’s beginning to feel the crippling effects of his scars. He wants to trust in Jenna, but deep down he doesn’t believe someone so wild and free can ever be tamed.

But tragedy strikes, pushing Jenna out of Greenfield and leaving Rusty with a choice to make—face his inner demons or lose the love of his life. Forever.

WILD CHILD is a contemporary romance novella from the Wild Ones Series.
WILD CHILD is due to be released October 22, 2013.

About M. Leighton:

M. Leighton is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Wild Ones and The Bad Boys romance trilogies. She is a native of Ohio, relocated to the warmer climates of the South, where she lets her mind wander to romantic settings with sexy Southern guys much like the one she married and the ones you’ll find in her latest books. When her thoughts aren’t roaming in that direction, she’ll be riding horses, swimming in ponds and experiencing life on a ranch, all without leaving the cozy comfort of her office.

For more about M. Leighton:

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Sep 24 2013

In Harmony Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 7 Comments

From New York Times bestselling author Helena Newbury, the second in the Fenbrook Academy series.
A self-contained romance with no cliffhanger ending!

Everyone expects her to succeed…
Karen plays the cello like an angel, and it’s the only thing that makes her truly feel alive. But her father’s dream—for her to join a prestigious orchestra—leaves no time in her life for anything but music…not even love. Trapped on her path, she doesn’t know how to rebel.

Everyone expects him to fail…
Connor plays rock guitar like the devil himself, and his ability has got him all the way from a dead-end life in Belfast to a scholarship at Fenbrook Academy. But beneath his arrogance and charm, he doesn’t believe he has what it takes. He’s spent his time in New York drinking and partying, and the only future he sees is a return to Ireland as soon as he flunks out.

But what no one expects…
When Karen’s duet partner is injured, the bad boy guitarist and the shy, sheltered cellist are forced to team up. Neither likes the idea, but what begins as anger and distrust slowly spirals into love…and lust. If they can face up to their feelings, they might just have a chance together. If Connor will allow Karen to stop his fall, maybe he can show her a life she never thought possible…

This New Adult Romance is recommended for readers 17+ due to adult themes and sexual scenes.

Review

Bad boy rocker meets shy/geeky cellist! I loved it! Who doesn’t love a good bad boy romance? First of all, I really enjoyed Dance for Me and In Harmony continues following the Fenbrook family, moving on to Karen’s story (Natasha’s pal) and bad boy IRISH rocker Connor! ::Excuse me while I swoon:::

If you haven’t read Dance for Me…don’t fret, it isn’t necessary to follow this story as they are each stand alone BUT I strongly recommend reading both as you’ll have a greater understanding of the relationships.

Karen’s desire to be a concert cellist has driven her to spend all of her waking moments practicing. She’s dedicated and determined but to what extent is she living the neatly carved path her father has made for her. She’s wanted this for as long as she can remember. Now that she is in her senior year she’s that much closer, but knowing her final performance of the year will possibly solidify a career with the NY Philharmonic she’s obsessed with perfection. With Karen’s duet partner injured, her chances with the Philharmonic seem less likely but her graduation depends on this performance, with graduation at risk the only possible solution comes in the form of an Irish bad boy rocker Connor Locke. Can she convince him that with his help the deal will be mutually beneficial? Let’s just say things begin to get complicated. Karen’s life is neatly carved out for her but she puts pressure on herself determined to deliver nothing but a perfect performance. She starts to envy Connor’s laid back, care free spirit and while she’s never been interested in dating or having a boyfriend Connor is filling her world with color.

I have to be honest (as if I could be anything but haha). I actually liked this book more than I did Dance for Me. I was drawn in to this relationship in a greater way than I had been with Dance for Me. Both books are well written, sexy and sweet but this one is more believable to me. The romance progressed in an interesting manner. Things shifted from confusion to lust to love. I felt the relationship in Dance for Me developed rather quickly BUT I still love Darrell and Natasha! Now Connor….something about an Irish rocker appeals to me! The accent, the edginess, the mystery. This book has it all and I recommend this to all New Adult/Romance fans. I can’t wait for more from this author.

Excerpt:

“Let’s dance.” Suddenly, his other arm was around my waist.
“What? No, wait –”

He pulled me close and I yelped. Suddenly my body was pressed against his, the heat of his body shocking through my thin dress. I could feel the hard wall of his abs against my stomach and I tried to speak, but I couldn’t seem to get any air. I was dimly aware that the band were playing a slow number, and a few couples had drifted back onto the floor around us, but we still seemed to be very much the center of attention.

“I can’t dance,” I squeaked.
“You’re doing fine.” We were barely moving, just a few steps in each direction as we turned slowly around. But even that was hazardous in my ridiculous heels, and I staggered and had to hang onto his arm to stay upright. It felt as solid as iron, and I was reminded of how he’d caught me on the steps. He was even stronger than he looked.
Unfortunately, not even he could make me a better dancer. I recovered, but kept tripping over my own feet, my face going red as I felt everyone looking. “Connor–“

And then he pulled me even closer to him and lifted me, my shoes just leaving the floor. He swept me round without appparent effort, and without my stumbling it actually looked good. “Better?” he asked.
I was panting. The whole length of my body seemed to be molded to his. His broad chest was pressed against my breasts, and the touch of him there was making my nipples rise and harden despite me willing them not to. His arm around my waist meant that my groin was mashed to his, and I was uncomfortably aware of the hardness I could feel along the inside of his thigh, and the effect it was having on my own body–a dark, twisting heat inside me that I could already feel turning to moisture. This is Connor, for God’s sake! What’s the matter with me?

I looked up at him, helpless. I expected him to be smirking, or outright chuckling at me. I thought he’d make some crude comment, but what I saw in his eyes took my breath away.

He looked just as helpless as me.”

About the Author

Helena Newbury is a New Adult Romance author with a love of bakingly hot summer days, strawberry gelato, good coffee and interesting people. Unlike the characters in her books, Helena cannot dance, act or play anything (though she is substantially more flexible since she started writing Dance For Me and tried doing dancer’s stretches, so she’s hoping that something will rub off on her from each book).
Helena writes in a very noisy, very busy coffee shop which means she sometimes end up mainlining caffeine to keep her seat. You’ll know when this happens because she’ll still be on Twitter that night at 4am.
She loves meeting and talking with other authors, traveling to new places and discovering new books. You can find her on:

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Sep 23 2013

Gryphon Series Books 1 – 4 Cover Reveal

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Well friends, we some more exciting news! The award winning Gryphon Series from best selling author Stacey Rourke has made some exciting changes. Each book will have all new covers and AMAZING illustrations. But that’s not all, today you are getting a sneak peek at the next thrilling book in the series, Ascension!

ABOUT ASCENSION:
From best selling and award winning author Stacey Rourke comes the heart-pounding continuation of the acclaimed Gryphon Series.

The turning point of the Gryphon saga is at hand …

Battle looms. Three unstoppable forces prepare to clash in a colossal explosion that could wipe Gainesboro off the map. Fate and sacred calling have landed nineteen year old Celeste Garrett in the middle with nowhere to run.

Her trust wavers as she uncovers dark secrets of the Council, powerful enough to test her loyalty and turn her against those she swore to protect. Playing to the longing of her heart, a malevolent enemy uses her weakness against her to form an alliance.

With the trumpets of war about to sound, which side will the Conduit choose, and who will be left standing?

Giveaway

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About the Author

Author of the Laugh-out Loud Gryphon Series and the nonfiction book I’m Not Crazy I’m on Lupron; a Journey Through Infertility. Learn more about Stacey’s by visiting the links below.

If you are a blogger or reviewer interested in reviewing any of Mrs. Rourke’s work please contact Sara O’Connor at Gliterary Girl Media. Thank you for visiting this page!

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About ILLUSTRATIONS and ARTISTS

Illustrator Crystal Ord will be bringing some of your favorite Gryphon Series characters to life!

Crystal Smalls Ord is a freelance illustrator and writer who resides in the rainy Pacific Northwest. Her art and stories have appeared in the macabre children’s lit magazine, Underneath the Juniper Tree. Last year she illustrated her first children’s book, Ethan’s Story; My Life with Autism which can be found on Amazon.com. Her art has also appeared in hitRECord.com’s musical short, Madamoiselle Noir.

In her free time Crystal plays with her kids, cleans house, teaches music in Sunday School, and lingers in the geekery corner of Pinterest.

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The demonic and fantasy elements of the Conduit’s journey will jump off the page thanks to Robert Immings;

In 2000 Robert Immings graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a BFA in graphic design. Since then he’s done work in package design, web development and designed training applications and software interfaces. These days he’s a mild mannered operations technician with an electronic trading firm in Alpharetta Georgia. Earlier this.year he had a chance to enter Sony’s “Treasures of Middle Earth” design contest which was a promotion for the hobbit movie. He came in as a runner up. More recently he had the opportunity to do some sketches and collaborate on the cover for Emily Fogel’s wonderful fantasy novel Dragon Wars and created the cover for her soon to be released book “Chasing Flames”. Right now he’s excited to be working on a collection of illustrations for Stacey Rourke’s Gryphon Series.

He’s always interested in illustration and graphic design projects and can be contacted at robertimmings@hotmail.com.

Sep 21 2013

I Rize by S.T. Anthony Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

First of all I need to acknowledge how amazing this book cover is. I ordered this book on Amazon a while back and the cover is what actually enticed me. I was curious to know what the book was about so I read the synopsis and downloaded the book. I’m glad I did because I really enjoyed this unique book. It is a very short read but it covers a very real problem today — Bullying. What I liked the most was that the author gave multiple perspectives. She went from bullied, to best friend, to parent, to love interest, to bully and back. It covered a wide range of issues that any person can relate to whether they’re fifteen or fifty. I truly loved that about this book. I spent a lot of time psycho analyzing characters because…well, that’s just something I do, but this book was written in a way where you could play devil’s advocate by understanding their own issues yet you could easily dislike them or feel absolutely no sympathy for them even through their own struggles. I’d rate this read at a 3.5-3.8. I enjoyed the style of writing as it is poetic but I would have loved a full length novel. I could actually see this YA book used in schools as a required reading. It would be a good pick.

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Sep 20 2013

Picturing Perfect Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Life may not turn out like we planned, but sometimes that’s what makes it perfect…

Hadley Foster has always been a planner. But, since the age of nineteen, things haven’t exactly gone according to plan… not at all. And the changes continue to mount when a trip to Europe with her best friend starts a domino effect in all aspects of her life. Suddenly, the future she had envisioned for herself seems unlikely to happen. It’s time to make a new plan… or accept the dominoes as they fall.

Jason Kelly has a great life. He’s a successful self-published writer who’s living his dreams. But, something is missing. Hadley Foster. Letting her slip through his fingers is one of his biggest regrets. Over time, he had to accept the idea of being without his first love as he watched her fall in love with someone else.

When circumstances bring Jason and Hadley back into one another’s lives, they’re forced to deal with their past, their present and the possibility of a future together.

**Note from the author: You do not need to read either Bouquet Toss or Champagne Toast to follow this story. It is a stand-alone book that connects to Champagne Toast. **

My Review

I loved this book. From start to finish Picturing Perfect is absolute perfection. This is a story that makes you reflect on your own life, your own decisions and all the choices that led you down the path you’ve taken. It makes you wonder if true love really does exist and if that love is strong enough to withstand whatever life throws your way. Is it ever too late? The author covered some very real subject matter but did so in a way that gave you hope. Simply put, this is an exceptional book. It is well written with a great storyline and truly lovable characters. The ending leaves you completely satiated.

This book introduces you to twenty-two year old Hadley Foster with a bang…leaving you with a looming suspicion that everything in her world is about to change, the only question is will it be for the best?

We are introduced to two men in her life – Tucker, her boyfriend of six years and Jason Kelly…the big brother of Hadley’s best friend Auden. Jason and Hadley have a complicated relationship. They’ve longed for one another but have never acted on their obvious attraction. The tension is almost palpable when these two are in a room together. Although Hadley is now in a relationship a run in with Jason stirs a lot of old feelings and it appears Jason’s feelings mirror her own. As things in Hadley’s life become rather…errr…complicated she must make some tough decisions as she realizes her mapped out plan has taken a bit of a detour. I loved every minute of this journey with Haddie. Although she endured some pretty rough times she came through it with ease and grace. This book is a great example of how life can take you on an unexpected journey but sometimes the outcome is far greater than even your wildest dreams. A must read for all romance and new adult fans.

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

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