Valia Lind's Blog, page 7

Book Tour: Defying Gravity by Kendra C. Highley Review & Giveaway!

Follow Along with the Defying Gravity Blog Tour!

If you’re a fan of contemporary YA romance novels in general and either the best friends to lovers or the brothers fighting over the same girl tropes, then you’ll love Defying Gravity by Kendra C. Highley! And of course, if you’ve already read Finding Perfect, the first book in the Finding Perfect series, then you’ll definitely not want to miss this one. Even though Zoey’s story can be read as a standalone without any problem, you’ll already know her, her BFF Paige, and Paige’s boyfriend, Ben, if you read and loved Finding Perfect, which will make this book even more enjoyable!

MY REVIEW:

This was so cute!

I’m a sucker for wintery romance and best friends turned boyfriend/girlfriend, so this really hit the spot for me. It was well written, fast paced, and put a smile on your face as soon as you started reading. Mostly because you met Parker first (and Parker is my favorite). He is truly the best friend every girl wishes she can have. Not to mention – gorgeous (but I had to mention because of reasons). I liked him right away.

As I did not read the first book in this companion series, Zoey was a new character to me. I did enjoy her, but at times she made me crazy. But I guess good characters do that to you or they’re not truly realistic.

Luke wasn’t all that likable, but he was written that way, so good job, Kendra!

There were a few places where I just wanted to scream at them for just get it together already, but I did enjoy the relationships overall.

I also really liked the setting of this one and needed a good “snow romance”. It was like Christmas in July!

Overall, this was a cute read, with good characters and just enough of adorable moments to make your toes curl. If you’re looking for a quick, cute read, this is definitely it.

Please return to this site each day to celebrate the release of this book and follow along with the blog tour from July 25-Aug. 5, 2016:

July 25, 2016:

Ever After Romance – Top 10 Reasons The Princess Bride is the Best Movie Ever Guest Post

Megan from All The Doodles n’ Scribbles – Review

July 26, 2016:

Ask Kendra C. Highley Anything on Reddit.com/r/Books – Live Q&A @ 5 pm EDT

July 27, 2016:

Valia from By Valia Lind – Review

Jennifer from Never Too Many to Read – Spotlight

July 28, 2016:

Lara from The Heathen – Review

July 29, 2016:

Michelle from What Is That Book About – Spotlight

Vox Libris – Interview

Aug. 1, 2016:

Deniz from Closet Geeks & Slo Mo – Interview

Hadassah from Haddie’s Haven – Spotlight

Aug. 2, 2016:

Jenn from Book Jems – Review

Aug. 3, 2016:

Jessica from OMG Reads – Spotlight

Becky from Becky on Books and Quilts – Interview

Madi from The Booknerd Diaries – Review

Aug. 4, 2016:

Moriah from A Leisure Moment – Spotlight

Emily from Bookland Fairytale – Review

Aug. 5, 2016:

Ena from Swoon Worthy Reads – Review

Stephannie from Swoon Worthy Reads – Review

Enter to Win the Defying Gravity Prize Pack!

Does Defying Gravity sound like your kind of book? Find out more now:

About Defying Gravity (Finding Perfect, #2):

Disclaimer: This book contains enough sexual tension to melt snow, the hottest near-kiss in the history of near-kisses, and a sexy snowboarder determined to win the heart of the girl he loves.

Zoey Miller lives for her holidays in Aspen. Her time up on the mountain with the Madison brothers, Parker and Luke, is everything. But for the first time, it’s not enough. This time, she’s determined to win one of the brothers’ hearts.

But the brother she has in mind is a renowned player, with hordes of snow-bunnies following him around Snowmass resort. And the other…well, he’s her best friend and knows she deserves better. Namely him. And he’s going to win her heart.

Want to Read More? Pre-order Defying Gravity (Finding Perfect, #2) Today!

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.ca |Entangled Publishing

Readings, Musings, Exloring, Oh my!

Hello lovelies,

So it’s been a while. Does anyone else feel like I’m always starting my blog posts (and videos) like this? Probably because I am. Ha. I’m terrible at this part. But anyway, UPDATES TIME!

WRITING: So this part hasn’t been going as well as I’ve been hoping, but it’s going. Somewhere. I think. Possibly. I’m being critical of myself, as one does.
READING: I have actually managed to get some reading done recently, which is good! I’ve been in a bit of a slump lately. Right now, I’m revisiting a favorite, because sometimes that’s the best. I adore Agatha Christie and And There Were None is my favorite! Also, as you can see, I’ve been consuming a lot of coffee.
EXPLORING: I’ve been doing a little more of this lately, as my time in New York is almost at the end (don’t get me started, there will be tears). A year sure goes by fast! Last weekend, I went to the Coney Island Mermaid Parade with my girls and it was a blast! Pictures to follow!

So that is basically my update post. I just wanted to show that I’m still alive. I’ll have a lot more things coming up, starting in July, so keep your eyes on my social media feeds!

What have you planned for this summer? Anything exciting?

I’d love to hear from you!

Much love,

Valia

 

Memorial Day Weekend Book Sale!

Hey lovelies!

This weekend only, my books are back to .99 cents for a special sale! Get it while you can!

Amazon: https://read.amazon.com/kp/card?asin=B00IY9ZM2K&asin=B00IY9ZM2K&preview=inline&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_hfGsxbP9VQFWR

 

 

 

 

Mini-Reviews: January 2016 Edition

Hello lovelies,

I’ve been thinking a lot of about this and I’ve realized it’s been a while since I’ve reviewed books on this blog. With everything that’s been going on, it’s not like I really have the time. But I started 2016 off strong with reading and thought I’d share some of my favorites, with quick reviews.

This Savage Song by Victoria Schwab (Verity #1)

Okay, so this…this book was AMAZING. I adore Victoria’s books and going into this one I, obviously, had high expectations. Well, they were met and then some! In TSS we meet both August Flynn and Kate Harker, two main characters, from two different sides of the war. And I have to say, I really really enjoyed these two. They were so interesting, in their own unique ways, that I couldn’t stop reading. It barely took me any time to finish the book and I was very sad when it was over. This book is basically for anyone who likes Victoria’s writing, or good books, or a unique look at good vs. evil, or just really anything. Read it!  In stores: June 7, 2016

(Also, this cover is gorgeous!)

Ruined by Amy Tintera (Ruined #1)

I read Amy’s other duology, Reboot, and I really enjoyed her style of writing and storytelling. I’m always nervous reading books in a different genre by an author I enjoy because sometimes they get it right and sometimes they really don’t. I am happy to announce that Amy got it right. I just finished another fantasy novel that was a disappointment so I was wondering if reading this one would be a bad idea. It actually had the opposite effect, as it was the perfect book to read to get me out of my fantasy slump. I truly enjoyed Em and Cas as the main characters. I really liked the world Amy created and I would like to know more about it. There was just enough action to keep me fully invested, as I’m a big fan of fast paced. I’m excited to see where the series goes next! In stores: May 3, 2016

(This cover is pretty awesome as well)

The Great Hunt by Wendy Higgins (The Great Hunt #1)

So I read this book at the end of 2015, but I really wanted to highlight it here because I am a big fan of this book! You all know how much I adore Wendy’s writing and I read basically anything by her. This one really hit the spot for me in the fairytale category. Even the feel of the writing style made it all fairytale like. Princess Aerity and Paxton were all kinds of fun in the main characters department. I enjoyed their uniqueness and their chemistry. I also really like the family feel to the royal family and Paxton and his brother, as I’m a huge fan of family stories. Overall, this book really delivered and I cannot wait to read more by Wendy! She’s a fantastic writer and I think everyone should check out her books. You’ll thank me later. In stores: March 8, 2016

(Also, another great cover!)

Well, that is all for me, folks! I’ll try to do a few of these sporadically, if you’d like. Would you? Let me know if you have read any of these or are planning on doing so!

Also, I’m taking blogging suggestions, so let me know what you’d like to see on here!

Much love,

Valia

Hello 2016!

I’m quite amazed that another year has passed us by. 2015 has been a year of big changes for me. I thought 2014 was a year I was brave, in publishing 3 books! But no. 2015 proved to be more of a challenge.

I took maybe the biggest leap and moved to New York City in June.

I’m basically never getting over just how beautiful I find this city. But the move did not come without its challenges, as all good things do. However, through it all I continue to be amazed by the goodness of God and for the blessings He sends my way every day.

In March, I published SCARRED BY VENGEANCE, book 2 in the Titanium series. I received amazing reviews and I am so happy the Tasia’s story continues to excited those reading my books.

In May, I attended Book Expo of America, where I did not only got to spend an amazing week with my awesome CP, Amy, but I also met a number of wonderful people and signed my book, PIECES OF REVENGE, at the conference.

In June, I got an internship at Langtons International Agency. A month later the internship turned into a job. Since then, I have been able to learn much about the life of an agent in the publishing world.

In July, I rented my first NYC apartment in Manhattan. It’s a little cute box of an apartment but it’s the best thing and I love it. I also met some amazing people, who are now part of my New York adventures! In September, I was able to come home for a wedding of a dear friend and spend some much needed time with my family. During these few days I started back up on a secret writing project that I’ve been putting off for a while.

In October, I received a Bronze Medal Moonbeam Children’s Award for my book, PIECES OF REVENGE.

In November, I was privileged to spend a Thanksgiving with a new dear friend and it was an amazing weekend. I was finally able to scratch off Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade off my bucket list.

In December, I finished revisions on secret project. I got to experience Christmas festivities, such as the lighting of the Rockefeller Tree, and spend some time with new friends.

Rockefeller fun!

 

I am excited to see where 2016 takes me!! I’ve already had an amazing start!

NEWS: I am now a content editor with Fantasy Works Publishing and I think you guys should check them out!

My Goodreads Reading Challenge is a bit on the smaller side this year, but I’m giving it a try! https://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/4009148?utm_source=twitter.com

I’m not making any resolutions this year, but I’m curious to hear about yours! Share them below!

Much love,

Valia

Editing Services

Source: Editing Services

ANNOUNCEMENT: Free Book!

Hello lovelies,

Can you believe November is already almost over? I can’t either! In the spirit of holiday festivities, I have a special treat for you.

A lot of you have been asking me about Titanium book 3, as well as Falling series book 3, and THOSE ARE STILL HAPPENING. They’re just not happening until 2016. I know, I know, not the best news, but I have some that may make up for it.

I’M WRITING A NEW BOOK!!! AND YOU CAN READ IT FOR FREE!!!!

That’s right. You heard right. FOR FREE!

There’s a story I’ve been wanting to write for a while. It’s basically one of those sanity projects and what I decided to do is post it on Wattpad. If you don’t know what that is, it’s a community where you can post your stories for free and anyone can read it.

Here’s the blurb for the book (and the temporary cover), FOOTPRINTS IN THE BLOOD:

Addison has never been sick a day in her life. And when her college campus goes on a lockdown because of a deadly virus, she’s one of the few who still seems to have her wits about her. The quarantine was only supposed to last for a few days, but then, the virus was only supposed to make people sick. It wasn’t supposed to turn them into emotionless robots whose only desire is to eat human hearts. It wasn’t supposed to give them superhuman strength. It wasn’t supposed to destroy the world Addy lives in. But that’s exactly what happens. Now, the only thing on Addy’s mind is how to escape the deadly prison her college has become and try and find her way home.

Please note, I’ll be posting as is and it will be the FIRST DRAFT, so excuse any typos and such.

Here’s the link to Chapter One: https://www.wattpad.com/187663440-footprints-in-the-blood-one

I’ll be posting at least a chapter a week, maybe more.

Now, who’s excited? I’m excited! Let me know what you think!

Much love,

Valia

 

Writing, Awards, and #NaNoWriMo, OH MY!

Hello lovelies,

So it’s been a while. Again. I don’t mean to disappear, really. But it just happens sometimes and I’m sorry.

BUT I’M BACK!!!

So first things first, MY BOOK WON A MOONBEAM CHILDREN’S AWARD – BRONZE MEDAL. Excuse me for shouting, but I’m still in shock. Pretty amazed by this, not going to lie. Next, I have been asked a few time, and yes. I am writing. I can’t tell you what I’m writing, but there is some words on paper happening. What I can tell you is that yes, there will be book three in the Titanium trilogy. And yes, there will be book three in the Falling series. But there are also some other things happening, that I cannot talk about just yet. Yes, excitement.

I am planning on participating in #NaNoWriMo this year, so if you’d like to add me, I’d love for you to do so: http://nanowrimo.org/participants/valia_lind

And speaking of writing, if you need an editor, I’m open for business: https://valialind.wordpress.com/my-books/

I think that’s pretty much it for now. Here are some NYC pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Much love,

Valia

#CampNaNoWriMo Editing Services!

Hello lovelies,

It’s been a while, I know! New city, new job, no sleep. You know how crazy it can be! But that’s not why we’re here. As you can tell by the headline of this blog, we’re here to talk editing!

Editing is such an IMPORTANT part of writing and many out there (myself included) have a difficult time even figuring out where to start.

So, in the spirit of #CampNaNoWriMo I wanted to open up my editing services at a special discount price to all of those who are simply looking for an overview edit! This type of an edit is basically an overview assessment of what needs to be done to take your book to the next level.

If you’re not sure if I’m the right person to work with, that’s not a problem. To see if we fit as a team, I offer a FREE consultation edit of the first ten pages of your manuscript.

If that is something you are interested in, send me an email – valiawrites (AT) gmail (DOT) com

One of my favorite things is helping other authors and if there is something I can do for you, let me know! Much love,

Valia

A Day in New York City – Pictures Galore

So I’m not sure how many of you know this (I kept it pretty quiet I guess) but I moved to New York!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *Que excitement*

This is a HUGE deal for me because it’s been something I’ve wanted to do for YEARS. It’s hard to make such a drastic move, those of you who have done it know, but it’s the right thing to do and I cannot be more excited to be here!

At the moment, I’m living in New Jersey with a friend (who is all kinds of amazing) and looking for an apartment in the city. So, little by little, my dreams are coming true!

Yesterday, my AMAZING CP Amy came to visit! And we spent a day in NYC, just walking around and talking about our writing and our goals. It was the most amazing time and it was exactly why I moved to New York.

Look at Amy’s hair! Isn’t it awesome?

I love the city and everything about it. Sure, it’s got it’s “bad” parts, just like anywhere you live. But New York is a gem and I love the fact that I can spend time just walking around in it. If you follow me on Instagram, you have seen a lot of the pictures I’m sharing, but I wanted to do so here anyway.

So basically, I had a blast. One of our friends, DJ, came and hung out with us for the afternoon and that was awesome!! Can you tell how much fun I had?

I love New York! I hope I never get over the fascination of everything here.

What are some of your favorite places in the world?

Much love,

Valia