"A Single Word ... "

Seeing how this was a new series for me, I didn't have the back story of the first two books. But I have to say that it blew my socks off rather quickly in just a few pages! This book was a good fast-paced read and enough going on that it drew me in to the story regardless.

Author: Shannon Mayer

Genre:  Sci-Fi, Fanstasy

Publisher: HiJinks Ink Publishing, Ltd.

Publishing Date: September 29th 2015

Description:

My name is Larkspur, and I am an Elemental.

My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen.

In a world of lava and fire, I am about to face my hardest trial yet. Not one of strength, or power, but intrigue and manipulation. However, my tolerance level for anyone outside of my family is at an all-time low, and the queen who rules the Pit expects complete obedience.

As Ash's life is held in the balance, I have just three days to prove his innocence and mine. This place holds more than a scorching heat; new foes, traitors, and creatures from the depths of the lava are all trying to keep us from surviving.

The only question left. . . Can I get us all out without being burned alive?

Welcome to the Pit.

Reading and writing from a very young age I learned early on that stories built in a fantasy world were where the fun was at. Reading books by Robert Jordan spurred me on and it was the first real epic fantasy that I fell in love with. After that came Piers Anthony, Melanie Rawn and into my older teen years, Anne Rice.

It was in Rice’s novels that the idea of urban fantasy really bloomed for me and it was about that time that my grandmother was letting me read her Harlequin Historical novels. (Okay, actually she was slipping them to me when my mother wasn’t looking, but let’s not get picky.)

The combination of love stories and darker fantasy stuck with me and it’s now not only what I gravitate towards to read on my off time (Kelly Armstrong, Laurell K Hamilton, Kim Harrison), but has become the style I love to write in.

Besides writing, I love to spend time with my family and animals, horseback ride, garden and hike with my husband.

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Firestorm-Elemental-Book-Shannon-Mayer-ebook

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25934588-firestorm

Barnes & Nobles: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25934588-firestorm

The characters are developed and it's nice that the author is able to give you the sense of inclusion as she writes each scene.
The description of the pit, lava river and magic comes together with smoothness that should be recognized and acknowledged. I could use my imagination to feel the heat, the rocks under my hands when Lark was thrown to the ground when dealing the wife of one of the Enders that was suppose to die by Larkspur's hand, and I could "see" the frustration on Peta face when dealing with Larkspur time and time again. And that Earth magic that Cactus brings to us in his version of the Secret Garden of Eden in his dwelling has me smelling the rich dirt that brings that clean freshness associated it and the many flowers that have bloomed there.

She makes the characters that come across some one you actually have in your own life. Face it we all know that strong, frustrated type who will protect their friends to the end, to the Bitch, to the one one wants to do it all their self regardless of the consequences and of course the bully/manipulator we all come across in our own lives. She was able to give the characters personality, depth and the realistic behavior that one hopes for in any book that we pick up to read. So Kudos Shannon!

I have to admit that this ARC has me looking for the first books by Shannon, as well as the books that followed this one. I look forward to adding her to my "Must Read" list. Over all I personally give this book a 5 out of 5 stars.

This Author shared this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion for this review. So the words above have no impact overall in the making of this book and should be taken with a grain of salt. So please remember that when you read this review. These are just my personal thoughts & opinion.

This wraps up another issue of "A Simple Word."

Look what time it is. Yep - you guessed it, It's time for another BBT book.

Into the Mist (Moonseed series Bk. #3)

Author: Judith Ingram
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel, Paranormal
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing, LLC
Publish Date:07/24/2015

For the past six months, time-traveler Victoria Ashton has been living life as Katherine Kamarov on a ranch in rural California, circa 1890.

For the past six months, time-traveler Victoria Ashton has been living life as Katherine Kamarov on a ranch in rural California, circa 1890. A contrast to Katherine’s brash personality, shy and gentle Victoria has won the hearts of Katherine’s family and particularly her cousin Michael. Despite her deepening love for Michael, she has rejected his offer of marriage and sent him away, knowing that she must return to her own time on the night of the new spring moon.

In this third and final book of the series, sinister forces threaten Victoria’s new family, her property, and even her life, testing her for courage and ingenuity. A confident new self emerges, and when Michael unexpectedly walks back into her life, she questions whether she must remain a victim of fate or can find a way to determine her own future.

Meanwhile, Katherine has been living a parallel year of exchange in Victoria’s modern-day life, married to the handsome but remote Ryan Ashton. Hardened by her past, Katherine nevertheless falls for Ryan and, like Victoria, begins to search for a way to defy fate and keep the life she has come to cherish.

As the night of the new spring moon approaches, both women must search their hearts to discover how to hold onto what matters most, even if they should be forced back through the barrier of time.

Available @ Amazon

Excerpt:

He didn’t hear her slide the door open and step out behind him. Her arms circled his waist, and the faint scent of ginger spice shot twin arrows of joy and pain through his body. Wordlessly, he turned and brought his mouth down on hers. Enveloped in the soft twilight hush, they shared a kiss that was deep and long and achingly sweet. When they pulled reluctantly apart, Ryan let his eyes linger over her, already naming the vision being etched in his memory. This is how my love looked in twilight.

She was wearing her white robe, and her blond hair curled softly, just brushing her shoulders. It’s gotten longer, Ryan thought. He suddenly wanted her to cut it again, as if keeping her hair short would somehow help her to keep her claim on this body—on this life—and prevent Vicki from coming back.

Tori moved to the rail and stared out over the city deepening into dusk. “It’s started, Ryan,” she said quietly.

He moved to stand beside her. “What’s started?”

She turned and leaned an elbow on the rail, holding him with a steady gaze. “What we’ve dreaded. I dreamed about the bridge.” She lifted a shoulder. “It’s only a week away. I should have expected it.” She drew in a breath that trembled. “She was already there, standing on the bridge. Waiting for me.”

At his look, she put out her hand and covered his. “Don’t hate her, Ryan. She didn’t ask for this to happen any more than I did.” She smiled faintly. “I would have, though, if I’d known you would be here. I wouldn’t have missed this time with you for anything. No matter what happens, I’ll carry you in my heart until the day I die.”

Ryan couldn’t speak. He couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe. He could do nothing but stare at her in mute despair.

She turned her back on the glittering city and leaned both elbows on the rail, staring through the glass doors into their living room. The soft light of the table lamps was growing imperceptibly brighter as the dusk surrendered to night.

“Do you ever wonder, Ryan, what Victoria will be like when she comes back?”

“She’s not coming back.” His voice cracked.

“She’s had a whole year, Ryan, just like me. A lot can happen in a year. She may surprise you.”

“She won’t get the chance.” His jaw tightened. “I’m not letting you go, Tori. I can’t. Vicki doesn’t belong here anymore. This is your home, with Christina and me.” He covered the crack in his voice with harshness. “How can you stand there and calmly talk about Vicki coming back while you just up and vanish from our lives? Like it’s already decided, like it’s so easy for you—”

Judith Ingram weaves together her love of romance and mystery as well as her training as a counselor to create stories and characters for her novels. She is also the author of a Christian guide to forgiving and posts weekly devotionals on the role of forgiveness in healing relationships. She lives with her husband in the San Francisco East Bay and makes frequent trips to beautiful Sonoma County, where many of her fiction characters reside. She confesses a love for chocolate, cheesecake, romantic suspense novels, movies that require three hankies, and all things feline.

Website, blog and free weekly devotional: http://JudithIngram.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudithIngramAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/@judithingram20

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/judith-ingram/a/122/62

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5356538.Judith_Ingram

Well let me say first, that I have not read the first two books, so I felt like I  was a bit lost on the bases of the back story.  I would recommend reading the two previous books before this one. But let me go on to say that I did enjoy the book overall.

You can see that the intricate details of the characters took up some time to develop in the series and is evident in this book as well. There at times, the author shows us that when it come to write each new event that it can be difficult to write each character in a parallel universe and to keep it straightforward and not cause the reader to become confused. I know that I have come across this problem in other books/series, that I have read before this one; this isn't always the case.

The only reason I had a touch of trouble with the book was because I didn't read the previous books in the series.  I do believe this book still deserves 4 out of 5 stars. It would most likely get a 5 once I have read the other two books.

Of course there is a Give-A-Way and what a give-a-way it is with lots of goodies to have a chance at.  Be sure to enter in the form below or at the direct link listed below.

They are as follows:

July 27 Character Interview

Diane’s Book Blog 

http://dianes-book.blogspot.com/

 

July 28 Spotlight

Marianne Willis Author

https://mariannewillisauthor.wordpress.com/

 

July 29 Spotlight

CBY Book Club

http://cbybookclub.blogspot.co.uk

 

July 29 Spotlight

Reily Garrett

http://reilygarrett.blogspot.com

 

July 29 Spotlight

Shyla Wolff

http://shylawolff.blogspot.com

 

July 30 Interview

Butterfly-o-Meter Books

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Please Join us 8-10pm EST for the Facebook Party on Friday, August 14

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August 3 Review

Ramblings of a Quilter (this is me)

http://tricia-ramblingsofaquilter.blogspot.com/

 

August 4 Spotlight

T's Stuff  

http://teresanoel.blogspot.com/

 

August 5 Review

Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock

www.pratr.wordpress.com

 

August 6 Spotlight

Eskimo Princess Book Reviews

http://eskimoprincess.blogspot.com/

 

August 7 Spotlight

3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too!  http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com

 

August 10 Spotlight

Dark Side of Romance

www.darksideofromance.com

 

August 11Guest Blog

Roxanne’s Realm

www.roxannerhoads.com

 

August 12 Spotlight

Books N Pearls 

http://booksnpearls.com/blog

 

August 13 Review

Books and Authors

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August 14 Spotlight

Romance That's 'Out Of This World'

www.hywelalyn.blogspot.com

 

August 17 Character Interview

Eclipse Reviews

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August 18 Interview

Author Karen Swart

www.authorkarenswart.blogspot.com 

 

August 19 Guest Blog/Top Ten List

The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom

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August 20 Spotlight

Lisa’s World of Books

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August 21 Interview

Deal Sharing Aunt

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August 24 Guest blog

Fang-tastic Books

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Well here's to another review brought to you by:

 

 

This wraps up another issue of "A Simple Word."

 

Read On My Fellow Bibliophiles,

Tricia

Today I bring you a One Day Media Blitz for a new BBT book. 

 

I have the honor of bringing you  Imperfect Love  (The 4ever series) by Isabella White.  This is the first book in her new series.  It will follow with Secret Love and Endless love all written by Isabella White.  After I read the back cover and the excerpt, I have to tell ya this looks like an interesting series to add to the "Need to Read" pile.

 

 

 

Released Date: July 2015

Publisher: Fire Quill Publishing (July 27, 2015)

Genre: Contemporary/ Erotic

 

 

Cover Reveal:

 

At 24 years old, Holly Scallenger has the perfect life. Everything a girl could want; a beautiful man, a stunning home, as well as being in the midst of preparing for the wedding of her dreams. This all vanishes the night she catches her fiancé, Brandon Morgan, in bed with her worst nightmare, Donna Sinclair, just a week before Holly is set to walk down the aisle.

 

 

Description:

 

At 24 years old, Holly Scallenger has the perfect life. Everything a girl could want; a beautiful man, a stunning home, as well as being in the midst of preparing for the wedding of her dreams. This all vanishes the night she catches her fiance, Brandon Morgan, in bed with her worst nightmare, Donna Sinclair, just a week before Holly is set to walk down the aisle.

 

Attempting to recover from his betrayal, Holly swears off the affections of men in order to pick up the pieces of her crumbling life. Unfortunately, meeting Jake 'Hooligan' Peters is not part of her plan. The tall, dark-haired and handsome as hell med student, sweeps Holly away from the pain of her past and reveals to her the bright future that lays ahead. That is, until she falls pregnant just as Jake begins his internship at P&E; his family's hospital.

 

Will this love at first sight lead her to the fairytale she has always craved? Or, will she fall victim to a betrayal of the heart yet again? 

 

Excerpt:

 

Holly climbed out of the plush chair and gingerly walked across the soft carpet. Grasping the metal handle, she opened the closet door with a flourish and pulled out the suitcase. Flapping it open, she began arranging all her clothes haphazardly. Lucky for her, it was a big suitcase. When she’d bought it, she knew the size would come in handy one day; she just never thought that it would be used for this.

 

Pausing in her frantic packing, she fell back onto the white carpet, letting her hair swirl around her, reflecting the tornado of emotions swirling inside her. How could he have done this to her? They’d had so many dreams. They could have been such a great couple, if he would have just kept his dick in his pants. Heaven knew she loved Brandon, but she refused to marry Donna, too.

 

Tears began streaming down her cheeks, leaving a hot path that burned into her very soul. She inhaled deeply, trying not to lose it as she pushed her hair back. She knew that as soon as his Audi pulled into the driveway, he was going to start with his begging again. Especially now; a week before the big day.

 

She had to stand her ground. She owed it to herself, and deserved so much more than a two-timing whore! Yes, if women were called whores when they did it, men could be labeled in the same manner.

 

Suddenly, her phone began buzzing frantically. As she looked at the polished glass screen, a beautiful picture of him and her smiling greeted her. Damn... they looked so happy.

 

 

 

Isabella White was born and raised in South Africa, where she still lives with her husband and two beautiful little girls. She always knew she was going to be a writer, but it only started to really happen about four years ago. In her free time―if she gets any because moms don’t really have free time―she loves to spend it with friends, whether it’s a girls night out, or just watching a movie. She’s a very chilled person.

 

Her writing career started with Firebolt, book one in the Dragonian series under the pen name of Adrienne Woods. Her other series, Dream Casters, will be released mid 2015. She also writes in different genres, The Pregnancy Diaries, You and Me 4Ever has a total of 3 novels. More to come in the Pregnancy Diaries soon. And then, she has a paranormal series by the name of the Aswang series, which will consist of about ten novels.

 

And if that wasn’t enough, there is another series, Guardians of Monsters, which will be released in 2016. Both novels are written under another pen name called Kristen Ping.

 

 

Website *** Blog *** Facebook *** Twitter *** Google+

*** Fire Quill Publishing ***

 

 

 

 

A Bookaholic’s Fix: Feeding the Addiction

http://Bookaholicfix.wordpress.com

 

Musings of the Book-a-holic Fairies, inc.

http://bookaholicfairies.blogspot.com/ 

 

Fang-tastic Books

www.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com 

 

Roxanne Rhoads

www.roxannerhoads.com

 

The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom

www.creativelygreen.blogspot.com

 

Lisa’s World of Books

www.lisasworldofbooks.net

 

Deal Sharing Aunt

www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com

 

3 Partners in Shopping

www.3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com

 

Mommies Point of View 

http://www.MommiesPointofView.blogspot.com

 

Evelyn Shepherd 

www.evelynshepherd.wordpress.com

 

Books and Authors

http://bookreviewsandauthors.blogspot.com/

 

Tricia Morrison-Stork (that's me)

http://triciamorrisonstork.booklikes.com/

 

Zenny's Awesome Book Reviews

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Romantic Fanatic

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Books and Warpaint

http://www.booksandwarpaint.com

 

Around the World in Books 

http://www.aroundtheworldinbooks.ca/

 

Ogitchida Kwe's Book Blog

http://ogitchidabookblog.blogspot.com

 

T's Stuff  

http://teresanoel.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

This time is a $10 Amazon Gift Card.  How great would that be?  I know I would LOVE to win this one too.

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Direct link to entry form

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1109

Now the world around me is quiet, it's time for me to get back to my reading. So with that we wrap up another issue of "A Simple Word..."

The Sephra's Tear by Robyn Bachar

I would like introduce this wonderful new book in the BBT bookcase to you.

 

Author: Robyn Bachar
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Robyn Bachar
Publish Date: 6/1/15

From the Back: 

 

Just one spell will change their fates…

Cordelia is a pawn of House Dorchada—a notorious noble family comprised of thieves, assassins and dark wizards. Desperate to avoid their poisonous politics, Cordelia plotted her escape for years, but her carefully laid plans are jeopardized when her father commands her to marry an aged lord of Frostever.

With only a few short months left before her wedding, Cordelia’s salvation hinges on creating a Sephra’s Tear—a forbidden amulet that causes overwhelming lust in its victim. A black market buyer promises a life-changing amount of coin as payment for the Tear, but being caught creating it carries a death sentence.

Two wizards are needed to produce the passion to fuel the erotic spell, so Cordelia recruits the aid of peasant wizard Nathaniel Ravenwood. Nathaniel has long denied his desire for the beautiful Cordelia. As a noblewoman and a Dorchada she is as dangerous to Nathaniel as a viper, but the fortune she offers is a temptation he can't refuse.

Dealing in dark magic comes with a price, and Cordelia and Nathaniel risk losing their freedom—and their hearts. Their fates depend on the one spell that will free them, or destroy them.

                                                      Amazon   Barnes and Noble    Kobo
                                                     Scribd    iTunes    All Romance eBooks
                                          Grab it at Smashwords for $1.99 Use Coupon Code: ME32Q


Excerpt:

Nathaniel’s study was located in the lower levels of the stronghold, carved out of the stone the city was built upon, where the wizards of limited financial means lived and trained. The décor changed with each floor she descended, the layers of artistry and comfort stripped away until the walls and floor were bare gray stone. Like everything in White Harbor, the lines dividing the wealthy and the poor were clear. Cordelia enjoyed the tangible privileges of noble birth, but she knew she wouldn’t have them for much longer. She’d gladly give up silk and perfume for the freedom that wool and sweat would bring her.

When she arrived at Nathaniel’s door she paused and inhaled a deep breath. Cordelia had committed many small larcenies, and a Sephra’s Tear would be the boldest sin she had ever attempted. Cordelia’s hand trembled as she raised it, and she knocked and opened the door when she heard him bid her enter.
Seated at the aged desk dominating the room, Nathaniel glanced up from the book he had been reading. Surprise flickered across his face for a moment before he rose.

“Lady Dorchada. I won’t have your money until the first of next month.”

“Yes, I know.”

“Then to what do I owe this honor?” Though the question was phrased respectfully, his tone was suspicious. She couldn’t blame him - a Dorchada at one’s door was never a harbinger of good news.

Cordelia stepped into the tiny room and let the door shut behind her. He had a desk, a small alchemy table and a stove for heat. There was one other chair, but it was occupied by a tall stack of books. She glanced at it and gave Nathaniel a pointed look. Rounding his desk, he cleared the books away and waved his guest to take a seat.

“Thank you.” The stiff chair was uncomfortable, but Cordelia sat in it primly. “I apologize for the interruption. I will try not to keep you long. I have a new business proposition.”

“You have my attention.” Nathaniel returned to his seat and watched her with a neutral expression. She hesitated as the well-rehearsed speech vanished from her thoughts. Cordelia cleared her throat and tried to phrase her request as politely as possible.

“I need assistance with casting a somewhat difficult spell, and I hope that you may be able to aid me.”
“What sort of spell?” Nathaniel tended to be brusque, and his straightforwardness added to the anxiety tying her stomach into knots.

“One that would require discretion, should you choose to be involved.”

Nathaniel sat back and folded his hands in his lap. “All of our dealings require discretion, my lady. Thus far I’ve been impressed by your caution.”

Cordelia nodded. “Thank you. It is a Sephra’s Tear. A potent Tear.”

The wizard’s dark eyebrows rose to nearly his hairline. He raised his folded hands, covering his mouth to hide his expression. She admired his composure in response to such an unusual request—he probably didn’t often have women arriving unannounced at his door to ask that he make love to them until they both collapsed. Then again, he just might, considering how attractive he was. Nathaniel was older than Cordelia, but not by much. Unbound, his long black hair fell past his shoulders. As with most wizards Nathaniel’s hands were slender, hinting at dexterity instead of strength, and he had high, sharp cheekbones that most of the noble ladies in White Harbor would kill to be graced with. His plain, charcoal robes were well made, but were durable instead of fashionable. Cordelia found his eyes to be his most interesting feature; pale, crystalline blue, Nathaniel’s eyes were mesmerizing, though they were usually filled with suspicion when looking at her.




With the strength that an abuse woman tend to hide from their abusers, Cordelia works on a plan that not only will free her, but her half-sister; Cara as well. We see magic, endurance, and love endure thought out the book. But the dilemma becomes a crutch when she must struggle with the decision to use dark magic in order to escape. A decision that will have consequences for those around her too. 

The book was tastefully done when it came to the sex scenes without being overworked & raunchy.  There are some twist of suspense that will keep your interest peaked. I won't give too many details away so that I don't spoil the book for you. I have to admit that between the the magic, romance and titillating turns for me wonder if there will be a second book in this series.  I can think of a couple ways that the story line can go and hope to see more in the future. Overall I think the book is worthy of a 4 star status.

 

***Note*** I received this ARC from BBT for the exchange of my honest opinion of the book.  Please remember that these are my own thoughts on this series of books.

Now of course there are other stops on the tour that could include interviews, several guest blog stops and more reviews.  Be sure to check them out!

 

 

 

 

 

July 6 Interview

ARe Café

www.arecafe.com

 

July 6 Spotlight

3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, and Sissy, Too!    

http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com

 

July 7 Review 

Dowie’s Place

www.dowiesplace.com 

 

July 8 Interview

Daniela Ark

www.danielaark.com

 

July 8 Review

The Bibliophile Chronicles 

http://www.thebibliophilechronicles.com

 

July 9 Guest blog

Marsha A. Moore

http://marshaamoore.blogspot.com/

 

July 10 Spotlight

Roxanne’s Realm

www.roxannerhoads.com

 

July 13 Spotlight

Lisa’s World of Books

www.lisasworldofbooks.net

 

July 14 Interview

Sophia Tallon

http://sophiatallon.blogspot.com/

 

July 14 Spotlight

T's Stuff  

http://teresanoel.blogspot.com/

 

July 15 Guest blog

Butterfly-o-Meter Books

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July 16 Spotlight

Fang-tastic Books

www.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com

 

July 17 Guest blog

Books N Pearls 

http://booksnpearls.com/blog

 

July 20 Spotlight

Dark Side of Romance

www.darksideofromance.com

 

July 21 Spotlight 

Share My Destiny

http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com

 

July 21 Spotlight

Marianne Willis Author

https://mariannewillisauthor.wordpress.com/

 

June 22 Guest blog

Highlighted Author  

http://HighlightedAuthor.com

 

July 23 Interview

Shut Up and Read 

http://shutupandreadgroup.blogspot.com/

 

July 24 Guest blog

Sapphyria's Book Reviews

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July 24 Spotlight

Jodie Pierce's Ink Slinger's Blog

http://jodiepierceauthor.blogspot.com/

 

July 24 Spotlight

Shyla Wolff

http://shylawolff.blogspot.com

 

July 27 Review

Ramblings of a Quilter

http://tricia-ramblingsofaquilter.blogspot.com/

 

July 28 Spotlight

Houston Havens  

https://houstonhavens.wordpress.com

 

July 29 Interview

Deal Sharing Aunt

www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com

 

July 29 Review

Diaries of 2 Thick Chicks

www.diariesof2thickchicks.blogspot.com

 

July 30 Review

Books and Authors

http://bookreviewsandauthors.blogspot.com/

 

July 29 Spotlight

Lisa Medley

http://lisa-medley.com/   

 

July 31 Spotlight

CBY Book Club

http://cbybookclub.blogspot.co.uk

 

August 3 Spotlight

Susan Heim on Writing

http://www.susanheimonwriting.com

 

August 3 Review

Literary Musings

www.literarymusing.weebly.com

 

August 3 Review

Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock

www.pratr.wordpress.com

 

 

 

 

Robyn Bachar enjoys writing stories with soul mates, swords, spaceships, vampires and gratuitous violence against the kitchen sink. Her books have final-ed twice in the PRISM Contest for Published Authors, twice in the Passionate Plume Contest, and twice in the EPIC eBook Awards. As a gamer, Robyn has spent many hours rolling dice, playing rock-paper-scissors, and slaying creatures in mmorpgs.

You can find Robyn online at www.robynbachar.com and on Twitter at @RobynBachar.

           Website    Newsletter    Twitter     Blog   Facebook    Google+    Goodreads    LibraryThing
                                                                         Shelfari   Amazon

 

 

This time around we have a $25 Gift Card to Amazon!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Well time to give this a wrap. Until next time...

Toodles,
Tricia  

Authors: An Assortment Authors in this box set (see below)

Genre: Historical Romances, Women's Fiction

Publisher: Intrepid Reads

Description:

Author: Logan Belle

Publisher: Moxie

Genre: Romance

Description:

If you are huge fan of Medieval Historical Romances You are in for a real treat.

Genre:  Medieval Historical Women's Literature

Publisher: Amazon Crossing

There is nothing better than reading a sequel and have it turn out just as well as the first one. I know that is not always the case with books, and often times with movies; but in the case of this sequel by Iny Lorentz I found it to be.

This time we know that even though Michel & Marie had their "happy every after" moment, things go sideways again for the couple.  They are once again faced with hatred, contempt and hostility that forced them back on the road to travel and a long a dangerous path in separate ways. Only this time we need to add memory loss and a small toddler to the list of tribulations to be over come. 

We find that Maire will not believe that Michel is dead after a plague of dreams that is prophetic in nature.  To escape an arrange marriage from the court palatine, she and Michel's child are back on the road as an itinerant merchant as a way to travel across the country. So from the frying to the fire goes Marie.

We see the building of the characters with such complexities that revival those in the first book.  We travel that path of hardships with Marie, along with her very young daughter - Trudi and  her god-son Michi.

it's hard to believe the nastiness some people carry for others, but the atrocities that come from war are made to be even worse.  And that the emotions run rampant for not only Marie but including the strong supporting characters as well.  I could almost taste the yellow dust that is being kicked up by the column as they travel.  I could hear the shuffling of many feet, hear the creaking leather and rattling of chain mail as I read on.

This is another long book 463 pages. And from what I understand there appears to be another 5 books in this series (according to what I saw on GoodReads) and I look forward to reading them all. While some would find the thickness of these books daunting, I must confess... I am not one of them. I have a pleasure to announce that I am a big fan of  such series written by the likes of Robert Jordan, George R. R. Martin, And Ken Follett. And let's as not forget those of Diana Gabaldon and Jacqueline Carey.

Last time I gave Iny's book a 4.5.  This time I don't hesitate to give this book a five. And like I said, I'm now on the hunt for the next book.

***NOTE*** Please know that I Received this ARC from NetGallery for the exchange of my honest opinion.  So understand that these are my own thoughts on the book.

This wraps up another issue of "A Simple Word."

These days I struggle to even out my "TBR" and my "TBRV" list.  I know that you have probably heard me mention this a few times.  Last week I gave myself a stern lecture and made myself sit down and write out a certain number of reviews.  I had reached my goal and even added a couple more. 

I was so proud of myself that I gave me a pat on the back & celebrated with a couple of squares of Lindt's dark chocolate with chili.  It's an interesting flavor and hits both the heat & sweet spots.

Now it's time to set another goal and see if I can hit that one too.  My goal is eight reviews by weeks end.  I hope that you will find that are interesting to you too among them. 

Here we go!

Author: Lisa Genova

Genre: Women's Fiction, Literature/Fiction (Adult)

Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books

Description:

 

From the New York Times bestselling author of Still Alice Lisa Genova comes a powerful and transcendent new novel about a family struggling with the impact of Huntington’s disease.

Joe O’Brien is a forty-four-year-old police officer from the Irish Catholic neighborhood of Charlestown, Massachusetts. A devoted husband, proud father of four children in their twenties, and respected officer, Joe begins experiencing bouts of disorganized thinking, uncharacteristic temper outbursts, and strange, involuntary movements. He initially attributes these episodes to the stress of his job, but as these symptoms worsen, he agrees to see a neurologist and is handed a diagnosis that will change his and his family’s lives forever: Huntington’s Disease.

Huntington’s is a lethal neuro-degenerative disease with no treatment and no cure. Each of Joe’s four children has a 50 percent chance of inheriting their father’s disease, and a simple blood test can reveal their genetic fate. While watching her potential future in her father’s escalating symptoms, twenty-one-year-old daughter Katie struggles with the questions this test imposes on her young adult life. Does she want to know? What if she’s gene positive? Can she live with the constant anxiety of not knowing?

As Joe’s symptoms worsen and he’s eventually stripped of his badge and more, Joe struggles to maintain hope and a sense of purpose, while Katie and her siblings must find the courage to either live a life “at risk” or learn their fate.

Praised for writing that “explores the resilience of the human spirit” (The San Francisco Chronicle), Lisa Genova has once again delivered a novel as powerful and unforgettable as the human insights at its core.

 

 

 

 

This was a hard book to read because of the subject matter.  It brought out several emotions as you read how this disease develops. Not only for the patriarchal of the family, Joe - the Irish Boston Police Officer; but also his wife and all four of their grown adult children.

 

The progression that this family faces is remarkable in a painful sort of way. I had times that the regular outsiders were at times cruel and unforgiven.  The fact that Joe had tee shirts made that put a face on the disease actually made sense to me. That was insightful of the author, as we in general; are quick to make judgements of those around us without knowing the whole story.

 

You could tell the Lisa spent a lot of time doing the research for the book as a specialist.  I think it's was complex, thoughtful and informatively. I learned much even though it is a work of fiction.  She was able to find a portal that allows for a candor subject that most people don't anything about.  I know I didn't.  It was just something that I heard of in the news when a celebrity was diagnosed with Huntington's.  This book put more of a "realistic" spin or face on it. The book had me thinking long after I turned the last page.

 

Over all I would give this book that a 5 out of 5stars for the subject and how well the author brought the facts to me in a forum that I was able to understand.                                                                                                                                    

Please note that I received this ARC from NetGallery in exchange for my honest opinion and has no bearing on the making of this book.

 

 

 

 

I'm a Harvard-trained Neuroscientist, a Meisner-trained actress, and an entirely untrained writer!

My first novel, STILL ALICE, winner of the 2008 Bronte Prize, nominated for 2010 Indies Choice Debut Book of the Year by the American Booksellers Association, and winner of the 2011 Bexley Book of the Year Award spent over 40 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. There are over 2.1 million copies in print, and it has been translated into 31 languages. It was chosen as one of the thirty titles for World Book Night 2013.

Originally self-published, I sold it out of the trunk of my car for almost a year before it was bought at auction by Simon & Schuster.

Still Alice is now a major motion picture from Sony Pictures Classics.

 

And so this begins my the count down. Be sure to watch out for more this week. This wraps up another issue of "A Simple Word."

 

Read On My Fellow Bibliophiles,

Tricia

Is there more than one type of Angels?

I wanted to check out this ARC from BBT because I'm use to the references of Angels being all well ... angelic. The ones that have wings, halo and gentle kind beings.  I know there are some books and movies that does give a look in to the darker side of Angels. 

No Rest for the Wicked

Author: Dane Cobain

Genre: Supernatural Thriller

Publisher: Booktrope/Forsaken

Cover Artist: Ashley Ruggirello

Book Description:

When the Angels attack, there’s NO REST FOR THE WICKED.

Father Montgomery, an elderly priest with a secret past, begins to investigate after his parishioners come under attack, and with the help of Jones, a young businessman with an estranged child, Montgomery begins to track down the origin of the Angels.

The Angels are naked and androgynous. They speak in a dreadful harmony with no clear leader. These aren’t biblical cherubs tasked with the protection of the righteous – these are deadly creatures of light that have the power to completely eradicate.

When Jones himself is attacked, Father Montgomery knows he has to act fast. He speaks to the Angels and organizes a final showdown where he’s asked to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Available at Amazon

This story was so different from what I had expected.  It had me hesitating, even cautious.  I'm not particularly a person of traditional religions, but I thought it was kind of refreshing that the Angels wasn't very nice as I know most people would define them.

That they considered themselves judge, jury and executioner. What them seem to me is that they are sin eaters. It's so chilling. I don't know why exactly but they made the hair on my arms to stand straight up. It is dark, grisly and had me on edge the whole time.  With each page I turned, my breath would catch in anticipation.  Eerie in fact. It made me feel like the very air was crackling as these Angels came to a person demanding to know all their sins. 

Mr. Cobain has dangerously thrilled me with the story of these angles reminding me that there is evil in the world; as well as good and he managed to bring a bright & burning light to it. 

I would like to know more about the back story between Father Montgomery and Jones as it added to the spice of the story as well as the characters that was being judged.  What was it that brought these person to light on the Angels radar?  I did find it interesting that Father Montgomery choose to give the ultimate sacrifice. 

I would like to see what else Me. Cobain plans to do with his dark side. That would be a book worthy of reading.  I have to thank BBT for introducing me Mr Cobain and in light on my honest opinion that I'm giving for the exchange this ARC I give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars. And I have to acknowledge that it sent shivers down my back again as I typed up this reviews.

About the Author:

Dane Cobain is a writer and poet from a place you’ve probably never heard of, somewhere in England. His debut novella, a supernatural thriller called ‘No Rest for the Wicked’, will be released by Forsaken in the summer of 2015. When he’s not writing books, he’s reading and reviewing them on his book blog, SocialBookshelves.com – Charles Bukowski, Graham Greene and Phillip Pullman are favourites.

Find him at www.facebook.com/danecobainmusic or follow @DaneCobain on Twitter.

http://www.danecobain.com

http://www.facebook.com/danecobainmusic

http://www.twitter.com/danecobain

http://www.youtube.com/danecobain

- See more at: http://www.lisasworldofbooks.net/#sthash.cmfHwYaY.dpuf

Here it is a Saturday and I'm just looking over my " now reading", "to read" and "to review" list and all can do is to shake my head.  It makes me wonder if this just a "me" thing or does many Bibliophiles suffer from the same weakness?

I thought I would share some interesting info on me.  I'm currently reading the following books:

No Rest For the Wicked by Dane Corbain (my Bewitched Book Tour read for review on the 14th)

Irish Meadows by Susan Anne Mason (my current Bethany House review)

Web of Deceit by Susan Sleeman (review)

Mad Days of Me in Barcelona by Henry Martin

AN ARC for BBT (that I can't reveal just yet.)

On my NetGallery side, I have no less then 7 books off the top of my head that I need to also do reviews for that I have read.  The list of books that on my "read immediately" is at least 10 for them. 

Over here on booklikes I have 19 to read/finish/review. I just received 3 books in the mail that I won in April.  I have entered for more chances to win too. And I just knocked out 6 reviews today just for Booklikes.

I have 2 "real" books by Becky Wade from the library.  3 on the borrowed Kindle and the leaning tower standing next to the bed.  I have books in some form in the each room including the bathroom for a good relaxing bath. I have books that are in the vehicle for those 45 minutes one-way trips in a big town. And I have books that I have for certain moods and genres. 

So what are you reading?  How many do you have going right now?  Please share your list with me and see what I might be interested in adding to my "to read" list.

Until next time... with "A Simple Word."

Book Description:

Months after their brutal victory over Aiden and his hierarchy of Wizards, Charlotte and Valek have returned from Prague to their home in the Bohemian Occult City. However, this time, they are joined by their new band of misfit, magical friends. In the light of day, all seems to be at peace now that the Regime has been toppled, and the coven of rogue monsters has finally found their freedom. But Charlotte soon discovers that much like her adopted Vampire family, she has developed a strange addiction of her own. Her new disease is destroying her from the inside out, and Valek finds himself at a loss as he defies all odds to save her life. Danger continues to lurk around every corner and they realize that their happily-ever-after has not ended so happily after all, in this highly anticipated sequel of the Of Light and Darkness series.

Shayne does it AGAIN!!! Her second book pick right up form the last one without missing a beat and without much of a time jag. She is tenacious with her pen in a way that has me wanting more from her. She has figured out her niche in the vast world of writing and as a reader I am most happy.  I just get could not put it down once I got started. 

The complexity of the story bring in new characters and tells how thing progressed after the great fight scene at the end of the last book.  We learn what it's like when you are hunted down by the Regime.  Then there is the vampire "mis-fits" that joins Valek & Charlotte at their home.  This one is darker than the first with even more emotions are triggered.

I hope that I will get to preview book #3 when it comes out.  And I will be recommending this to my reader friends & my local library.

I'm rocking this one out at 4.5 out of 5 stars!!

Until next time... with "A Simple Word."

Fang Time!!

Yes here's one with a bit of a bite to it.  I won this book here on booklikes a while ago and was finally able to read it after some computer issues and where it was on the "to read" list. 

From the Back:

When one human stands before an army of impossible obstacles, the likelihood of overcoming them in this coming-of-age modern fairytale may result in war between light and darkness.

Abandoned as an infant in Prague, naive and strong-willed Charlotte Ruzikova was raised by one of the last Vampires left alive. As a human, she knows no other home than the one nestled deep in the woods of Eastern Europe, where Witches drew spells of enchantment, Phasers threw tea parties, and Elves are the closest in kin. Charlotte has lived her life in the dark with her Guardian, content to having him to herself and reveling in his attention, until she's realizes she wants more...

Resident medical doctor and Vampire, Valek Ruzik fears the day his ward would come of age and blossom into a fine woman, and he is forced to confront his own motives as time is of the essence once his past catches up to him, and their lives become endangered...

As genocide and war threatens their secret society, the dictator in power is ready to wipe out Valek's race, but Charlotte will not allow that to happen. Fighting for the only one she's ever loved and truly believed in, she will do whatever it takes to save their love...before the sun comes up and light takes over.

This happens to be Shanye's debuting novel and I think she hits on the head.  The combination of a romance of a Regency style gentleman and his ward has been done before in the likes those of the Jane Austin, Georgette Heyer and so many more. But Shayne has given it a different twist when she adds a vampire and his adopted human child, to the storyline as the main characters: Valek and Charlotte. They relationship is complicated at best during the struggles to defined it through out the book. It is more realistic as it is not all rainbows and sunshine.  We know that Valek needs blood from humans and Charlotte is usually the lure that brings the human victim home to Valek.

When we add the other characters like the Phasers, Elves and a Witch. Look out as things get really interesting in this little section of magical woods in Prague. And then it could be said that there is a tad bit of jealous towards the human daughter of the Vampire Doctor.  The details that are used for the background, the characters and such are well thought out that makes them more human-like in their interactions with each other.  I found that the pace was steady enough without feeling rushed. There is a bit of a cliff hanger that hints of a second book.  I could see this being adapted for a movie with out to much work.

Over all I would give this 4 out of 5 stars. 

Be on the look out for more reviews. Until next time... with "A Simple Word."

I have been so busy these past weeks with reading that my write up stack is starting to look like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.  LOL.  I guess that happens when you as much as I do.I had to school myself in getting to the writing part before doin' more of the reading part. ;)

Now I have also received two books from John and The Gang @ Real Dogs Cook.

I have received the Kung Pao For Pekingese by Chef Suzie Snow Peas. And Seafood for Schnauzers by Barnacle Bill Barker.

Both these books are so delightfully funny and fun.  These are cookbooks # 5 & 6 from The Canine Cuisine Team.  The books are full of wit, wisdom and recipes. A long with some do's and don't in manners for all to recognize with either two or 4 paws.  My 12 yr. old son is trying to convert the measurements and ingredients for humans to enjoy too.

He hopes that maybe he can have to whole set for his birthday next month.  So John & the Gang that is High Praise indeed!! 

So these two books both get 5 out 5 stars!!

Thank so much John for allowing me to review these for you & the Gang.

Until next time... with "A Simple Word."

I love a great book that can span generations of my family and I have a couple of those to share with you.  First is Finding Momo Coast To Coast by Andrew Knapp.

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Quirk Books (May 12, 2015)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1594747628
• ISBN-13: 978-1594747625

Book Description:

Momo loves to hide—and you’ll love looking for him! In this follow-up to the New York Times best seller Find Momo, the canine Instagram superstar (and his best buddy, Andrew Knapp) travel across the United States and Canada, visiting iconic landmarks and unique off-the-map marvels. Look for Momo hiding in Grand Central Station, in front of the White House, and in the French Quarter of New Orleans . . . as well as at diners, bookstores, museums, and other locales that only a seasoned road-tripper like Andrew could find. It’s part game, part photography book, and a whole lot of fun.

My thoughts on this beautiful pictorial book is that it is a fabulous book that the whole family can enjoy. Andrew did a wonderful job with his photographing that you can find something new each time you look at it.  I know that I do. We even make it a game to see who find Momo first.  

I have gone through the book when I had a few minutes here and there since I received it.  Some of the photos of Momo were more challenging to find then others and I wasn't bored with the book at all.  Then my S. O. looked through it, as well as my 12 year old son.  I was talking to my oldest daughter about it and she is interested in it and I think my 4 year old grand son would enjoy it to as I plan to gift it to him in December.  My family thinks this a so much fun and we can look at it together as a whole. 

I was thrilled to a review on this delightful and fun book and hope to do so in the future again.  My family gives this book a hearty 5 out of 5 stars Andrew!!

With the front door open, you give a light knock & walk in.  The sounds of the house is buzzing and bleeping from the modern day devices that are needed to make one or both occupants comfortable as possible. The drone of the TV also can be heard as the man sleeps quietly on the loveseat in a mid-afternoon nap.  But looking around you notice that one person is missing.

Now where did she go?  You quickly check out the other rooms in the small cottage.  Nothing.  The vehicle is still in the drive and her shoes are still in their normal spot by the door. Bewildered you continue to look around. There is no note of any kind, nothing seems out of place.  Then your eyes sweep the living room one more time.

There!

The cats are watching something through the screen door facing the river. You look out and discovered where she is on this cloudy summer day with a gentle breeze and a shaded back yard. Out the door you go, not wanting to disturb her peaceful moment outside.  It's not often that you will find her outside, unlike most people she does not worship the sun. In fact you know that she is almost vampire-like in the way she avoids it.

Having found her curled up in the hammock, you stand there watching her without betraying your presence. As you listen to the movement of the river, you see that under her wide brimmed hat, she has fallen asleep with a book on her chest. 

You wonder over and take a peek at the book that lays there and discover that she also has her e-reader with her. It's facing up and with a quick glance you notice that it on the last page of book she was reading on that one.  You carefully pick up the book that lies on her, place the book marker in between the pages; then close the novel to set it back down next to her.  You know her well enough to know she never likes to treat a book in that matter. For according to her, that it weakens the binding and causes the pages to come apart. 

And with one last look, you turn around without disturbing either party as you leave.

Does this sound like you my fellow readers? Have you been found fast a sleep with a book close at hand?  Does your friends and family understand the draw of a good book? This actually happened to me here at my house when I reading Deadline by Judy McDonough according to find of mine stopped by.

Well in my family this is normal. As it was with my mother, her daughters, her grandchildren and now great grand children.  Those who knows us know that either cash or books make the perfect gift come birthdays and holidays.  We would accept gift cards to book stores or even to general stores that carry books such as Wal-mart, Kmart's etc.  If you want to change things up then you would give us some thing for our particular craft that we do like quilting, yarn arts or embriodery.

In my case, I augment my supply by doing book reviews for a few companies and what I win in give-a-ways.  I love to stalk my mail box when I know that some are coming.  One of the books that got some time back was Judy McDonough's Deadline (The Bayou Secrets Saga #1)

• Publisher: Judy McDonough (February 3, 2014)
• Genre: Paranormal Romance, Mystery, Suspense
• Publication Date: February 3, 2014
• ASIN: B00I9234GS
• Print Length: 444 pages

From the Back Cover:

Caroline's life is on track. She's about to get her nursing degree and she's engaged to rich, handsome Trevor. But, before they get married, Trevor wants Caroline to spend the summer in Louisiana, getting to know her father, who's never been in her life. She reluctantly agrees and heads south, deep into bayou country where she meets Cade. Charming and handsome, he's pulling out all the stops to convince her that he's the man for her, not Trevor. As she becomes frightened by a series of strange accidents that began after her arrival, she learns that the woman haunting her dreams is actually a long-dead family member come to warn her about the men in her life. Caroline soon realizes that if she doesn't solve the mysteries from the past, they could permanently alter her future.

This book was awesome!! As my son would put it.  I purposely slow down in my reading on this one because I had hoped that my library was able to obtain a copy of Lifeline, the second book in this series. Who knows, maybe I will get a chance to review that book too.  Hey! I can dream... can't I?  But after a discussion with my local librarian it appears Judy's books will soon make an appearance upon my recommendation.

There are so many factors that I enjoyed about the story.  The pace was quite steady with a suspenseful twist throughout the plot line.  The on-going dream sequence between Caroline and Rachel was an interesting way to bring a touch of paranormal time traveling to the story line without bogging the whole book down. 

It allows the reader to understand how the relationships between Caroline, Cade and Eddie, Caroline's estranged father.  But then you there to also see the negative tension between Caroline with April and her Fiance - Trevor. And this all coming from Caroline's point of view as the events unfold over the time span of a couple of months in the summer.  Judy bring the story, the characters and atmosphere right to you with a well balanced and well researched bringing her knowledge in order to enrich the story.

I'm really sad to say that I finally finished this book and like I said earlier, I tried to draw it out for as long as I could. 

That leaves me saying that I am giving this book 5 out of 5 possible stars. 

Thank You Judy for writing a book that I just couldn't put down.  I love it so much that I know that this book will be on my "Re-read" list. This one will be in my collection a long time as you took the time to sign it!

Well that it is for this one folks. Until next time... with "A Simple Word."