Cindy C. Bennett's Blog, page 54
January 31, 2013
Tide Ever Rising Blog Hop


Kadence Reynold’s favorite pastime is exploring old ghost towns, but when she and her sister, Maysha, stumble across an old journal and cheap pendant hidden in the depths of a crumbling foundation near Eureka, Utah, their world is suddenly turned upside down. Immediately, strange dreams and premonitions begin to haunt “Kadie” as she learns more about the author of the journal, Charlotte Clark. Kadie sets out on a journey to learn more about Charlotte and her family, and she and Maysha travel to Bremerton, Washington, where they discover Charlotte's still living twin sister, Adelaide and her family.
Kadie and Maysha, upon arriving in Washington, are immediately immersed in Adelaide and Charlotte’s story. Kadie soon learns that Charlotte disappeared the night of a tragic fire that took the lives of Adelaide’s entire family. With the help of Logan Mathews, Adelaide’s handsome grandson, and Charlotte’s ever disconcerting presence, Kadie delves into the past. Hoping to solve the mystery of Charlotte’s disappearance, Kadie immediately discovers the secrets contained in the journal will toss her and Adelaide’s family into a world filled with mystery, past regrets, and dark unknowns.
My review of Tide Ever Rising by Mandi Tucker Slack:
Kadie and her more reserved sister Maysha accidentally run across a really amazing find (the journal) when they’re traipsing through some old, abandoned, falling down houses in the nearly abandoned town of Eureka, Utah. Deciding to follow the clues given in the journal, Kadie discovers not only more secrets and mysteries than she could have imagined, but she also meets the dashingly aloof Logan and his little daughter, Zahara.
I enjoyed the first part of the book while Kadie and Maysha are tracking down people from the journal, as well as some of the characters they came across in their quest. I have to admit, though, the book really came alive for me when Kadie and Logan unexpectedly find themselves stranded alone in the wilderness. For me, that was when Kadie really showed a backbone, learned a lot about herself and what she really desires from life. I quickly became a fan of Kadie and Logan and rooted for them to get together—in spite of Kadie’s fiancé Robert, who to me was kind of a stick-in-the-mud.
I’m a fan of Mandy Slack. I really enjoyed her first book, The Alias . As much as I liked that book, I think I like Tide Ever Rising even more. She has the ability to create characters who get under your skin and in your heart, and unforgettable stories. I look forward to reading more from Mandy in the future.
About the author:

*Watch the book trailer for Tide Ever Rising here*
*Purchase Tide Ever Rising here*
*Purchase The Alias here*
Published on January 31, 2013 23:00
January 30, 2013
Printed Books Giveaway Hop

Printed Books Giveaway HopFebruary 1st to 7th Hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer
In celebration of the release of my newest novel Rapunzel Untangled . I'm giving away a print copy of it which is scheduled to release February 12. I will be sending out the print copy to the lucky winner after it releases. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Published on January 30, 2013 23:00
January 29, 2013
Fractured Soul Blog Tour


My Review of Fractured Soul by Rachel McClellan
I have to begin by telling you I’m a fan of the prequel to this book, Fractured Light, so when Rachel asked me to review Fractured Soulfor an endorsement, I jumped at the chance just so I could read it before it was released. Good decision on my part.It isn’t often that a sequel comes along that’s even better than the original, but Rachel managed to do that with this book. I read the entire book in a couple of days, sneaking it in between when I was supposed to be working. I couldn’t wait to read the next chapter, and was disappointed when it ended. Not because I was disappointed in the ending but because I wanted more pages to read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
In Fractured Soul, Llona and May decide to attend Lucent Academy, and idea presented to them in the first book by Aunt Sophie. Lucent Academy is supposed to be a safe haven for girls with gifts like Llona and May, but things aren’t always what they seem. Lucent Academy is under attack from some evil forces that desire the destruction of the Auras. In the midst of that, Llona is experiencing some dark feelings that go against the light. What seems like normal teen rebellion turns out to be something that threatens her very soul.
I’m not going to give away any more of the story than that, other than to say that not only do the necessary characters play a part (helllllo, Christian!) but that new characters are also introduced that I hope to see plenty more of in the next book. In fact, I’d like to see an entire book based on Liam and how he came to be.
Fractured Soul is a brilliant sequel, exceeding even the remarkable first book in the series. Fast paced, exciting, and intriguing, it kept me guessing until the very last page what would happen next. The ending was shocking and heartbreaking, but absolutely perfect as a lead-in to the next book. Fractured Soul will haunt your every waking moment between the times you’re reading it, and stay with you long after you’ve finished. It’s an amazingly well written and engrossing story that I highly recommend—after you’ve read the first one, of course. Don't forget to jump down to the bottom and enter to win a copy of Fractured Soul!What others are saying: “I love these books! A kick-butt heroine and a hottie love interest, with a refreshingly original concept. Be prepared—once you start, these are hard to put down.”—Paula Cotton, book reviewer at ReadingLark.blogspot.com

Purchase Fractured Soul atAmazon or Barnes and Noble Haven't Read the First Book? Buy Fractured Light atAmazon or Barnes and Noble Now, enter to win a copy of Fractured Soula Rafflecopter giveaway
Published on January 29, 2013 00:00
January 27, 2013
Jack Templar Monster Hunter Book Blast

Orphan Jack Templar has no memory of his parents and only the smallest details from his Aunt Sophie about how they died. The day before Jack's fourteenth birthday, things start to change for him. At first it's great: A sudden new strength helps him defend his nose-picking friend "T-Rex" from the school bully, and even his crush, Cindy Adams, takes notice. But then a mysterious girl named Eva arrives and tells him two facts that will change his life forever. First, that he's the descendent of a long line of monster hunters and he's destined to be in the family business. Second, that there's a truce between man and monster that children are off-limits...until their fourteenth birthday! Jack has only one day before hundreds of monsters will descend on his little town of Sunnyvale and try to kill him.
As if that weren't enough, things get even more complicated when Jack discovers that the Lord of the Creach (as the monsters are collectively known) holds a personal grudge against him and will do anything to see that Jack has a slow and painful death. To stay alive and save his friends, Jack will have to battle werewolves, vampires, harpies, trolls, zombies and more. But perhaps the most dangerous thing he must face is the truth about his past. Why do the other hunters call him the last Templar? Why do they whisper that he may be the "One?" Why do the monsters want him dead so badly? Even as these questions plague him, he quickly discovers survival is his new full-time job and that in the world of monster hunters, nothing is really what it seems.

Jeff Gunhus grew up in Cyprus, Greece, and Saudi Arabia where there was a distinct lack of television. He quickly found books were the gateway to incredible adventures, fascinating characters and unbelievable discoveries. Now, with five children of his own (all who watch too much television, in his opinion), he has enjoyed revisiting his old books and reliving those adventures all over again.
Website * Twitter * Facebook
Kirkus Reviews
"Gunhus brings young readers a monster-filled romp to read at their own risk. In the first few pages, Jack, the storyteller and main character, warns readers not to read about these real-world monsters that would seem to only exist in fiction. The tone is set--sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek and likable; rooting for Jack is easy...Gunhus masterfully introduces fully realized characters with whom readers can connect almost instantly. The pacing is quick but not rushed, and events seamlessly progress, complete with action, cliff-hangers and surprise reveals. "
Amazon Reviews
Watch out Percy Jackson here comes Jack Templar
Move over Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, there's a new kid in town - Jack Templar, and he will take you on a wonderful adventure of good vs evil, with friends and enemies at every turn. The twists and turns keep the reader on a roller coaster of entertainment in the way of JK Rowling and Rick Riordan. ~ Penny Brein
Fast paced adventure through and through
Written for middle school aged students, this book is action-packed from the beginning and will hold the attention of young readers. Not only that, as an adult reader, it was hard to put down, so parents will enjoy it as an easy read. ~ bluejellybean
Kids will love it!
Not only will kids love it, adults will too! I don't want to give the plot away but this is a book worth reading. This book is creatively written drawing in the reader to be a participant in the story. There is lots of action with enough blood and guts to be interesting without being gross. Girls will like it too with the strong female role models and the hint of romance. Even though this is a children's book, I couldn't put it down. I will definitely be adding this to my classroom library. I am looking forward to reading the book in this series and sharing it with my students. Awesome book! ~ pixiep
PurchaseAmazon * Barnes & Noble
Book Trailer
WARNING
Yeah, you read it right. I’m a monster hunter. Back before I actually became one, I would have thought that sounded totally awesome. And don’t get me wrong, in a lot of ways it is. But most of the time, I’m either running for my life or hiding in the shadows, praying the monster chasing me doesn’t pick up my scent. And I’m almost always scared to death. In a few pages, I think you’ll see why.
But there are a few things I need to warn you about before I tell you my story.
First, this isn’t a cartoon. These are bloodthirsty creatures who will stop at nothing to kill. They are scary. Very scary. Second, the only way to stop them is to kill them first…and that gets gross and messy. Third, this is all real.
You think I’m kidding, don’t you? I can almost see you smirking as you read this. But this isn’t a joke. Monsters are real and the story I’m about to tell you really happened. If you’d rather walk through life believing that monsters are only found in books or on the movie screen, then you should shut this book right now and go do something else.
I give you these warnings because the story I’m about to tell you isn’t for everyone. Not everyone can handle it. The blood. The gore. The monsters.
This life was thrust onto me. I had no choice but to take up a sword and fight. But you can still walk away and pretend this dark world doesn’t exist. Or you can walk through the door that I’m about to open and find out the truth about the world around you.
But I warn you (and this is a big warning), if you read this book, if you learn about the monsters that roam among us and the hunters who fight them, if you decide to learn the truth, then you will become fair game for the monsters to chase.
Make sure you understand what I’m saying.
If you read this book, you will be part of this world and the monsters will come after you too. You will start to see things that no other humans can see. The shadows will move when you walk near them. The creatures of the night will seek you out, testing the doors and windows of your house, looking for a way in.
And, at some point, they will find you, just like they found me, and you will be forced to defend yourself.
So, think carefully before you turn the page, because once you do, there’s no turning back.
Ever.
Once a monster hunter, always a monster hunter.
See you on the other side.
If you’re brave enough.


Book Blast $50 Giveaway
Ends 2/15/13
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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Published on January 27, 2013 23:00
Young Adult Giveaway Hop

Young Adult Giveaway Hop
January 29th - February 4th
Co-hosted by BookLove101 and IAmAReaderNotAWriter
As both a writer and fan of young adult books, I'm pretty excited about this giveaway. Because I couldn't possibly narrow it down to just one book I want to give away, I decided instead to have the prize be an Amazon giftcard so that you can choose from any of the great books below, or your own favorite young adult book. These books below are just some of my most recent favorite young adult books, purely my opinion and nothing else - and in no parituclar order. It would be impossible for me to put them in a "favorite" order. So, without further ado, here are some of my recent great finds in this great genre.
Dissidence by Jamie Canosa: This is truly a great book from one of my favorite authors. I think Jamie is supremely talented, and this dystopian novel is one of the best I've read. Her main character is smart, sarcastic, and tough. The two guys she has to choose from are both completely appealing in completely different ways. Souls in Peril by Sherry Gammon: I fell in love with this book the first time I read it. Which is kind of odd for me since I'm usually a sucker for more romantic stories. Still, there was something so fantastic about Max and JD and the relationship they are forced into forging. Their story is both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. Flat Out Love by Jessica Park: Another book with quirky characters who wormed their way into my heart. Matt became an immediate favorite character of mine because of his geekiness. His t-shirts are to be envied. Little Celeste is someone I want to hang out with, and Julie was pretty cool. A definite must-read. Slammed by Colleen Hoover: I admit I debated about putting this one on here. It's not one of my most favorite books, but still, I enjoyed it enough to feel it merits mention. One of the things I loved most about this book is the quirky (notice a theme here?) little bothers of Layken and Will. Adorable. Cute love story with some fun poetry thrown in. Our Own Worst Enemies by Jamie Canosa: I know, this is the second book of Jamie's I've mentioned, but I'm completely in love with this one. It's a short story from the Screams in the Night anthology. It's a love story and a zombie story (both of which I'm a fan). But don't presume to think you have any idea how this one goes or ends. You don't. This is probably the best short story I've ever read. I seriously love it. Insight by Jolene Perry: This is a great story about a girl named Micah who's afraid to touch others because of the visions she gets when she does. She's sure she's always going to be alone until she meets the charming Landon. Not just a sweet love story, this has voodoo and shadows and other menacing things. Can't wait for the sequel!
Fractured Soul by Rachel McClellan: This one is a sequel (to Fractured Light). I really, really liked the first book. This sequel is even better. Llona is back, as is (sigh) Christian. *Pause while I get dreamy over Christian.* Okay, I'm back. I think I like this one better because Llona knows who and what she is a little better and comes across stronger. Fantastic read. The Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson: This one had to be included because it's probably my all-time favorite series of YA paranormal/dystopian novels. Max is another wonderfully sarcastic chick who's tough as nails. Fang is another boy to completely sigh over (how could he be anything but with a name like that?). A few annoyances here and there in the series when Max and Fang are apart, but otherwise well worth the investment - both time and money - to read. Unlocked: A Love Story by Karen Kingsbury: The hero of this particular book happens to be autistic - severely autistic. As in can't-communicate-at-all autistic. And yet, it's a love story as the title claims between Holden and his childhood friend, Ella. Very sweet, honest, and unforgettable book. What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor: Heartbreaking story of the consequences of teenage drunk driving made sweet by the many people who rally around Jake - including his longtime crush Samantha. Definitely makes you think twice about being grateful for all the people you have in your own life. Alright, I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you'd like to get to the good stuff, like the contest. If you can order from Amazon.com, you can enter. I'll email the winner the gift card. I hope you check out these books (links on the titles and at the bottom of the Rafflecopter), and whether you choose one (or a few) of these with your card, or an entirely different YA book, I wish you happy reading!
Oh, and don't forget to jump down to the Linky list to win more great YA prizes on the other blogs! a Rafflecopter giveaway
Amazon.com Widgets
Published on January 27, 2013 23:00
Dreaming of Books Giveaway Winner

She has won a copy of Heart on a Chain

Published on January 27, 2013 20:26
January 24, 2013
New Fan Pages

I have been busy making new fan pages on Facebook. If you want to like them here are the links. Thanks!
Author Cindy C Bennetthttps://www.facebook.com/cindycbennettauthor
Geek Girl http://www.facebook.com/geekgirlthenovel
Heart on a Chainhttp://www.facebook.com/heartonachainthenovel
Immortal Minehttp://www.facebook.com/ImmortalMine
Rapunzel Untangledhttp://www.facebook.com/RapunzelUntangled
Enchanted FairytalesCOMING SOON
Published on January 24, 2013 00:33
January 23, 2013
The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack Review

My review of The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack:
I have to say that I love a book that is clean. Anyone who knows me or who has read my own work knows that. Even more than that, I love a book that is clean and GOOD! And Slack's The Alias fits that bill very well.
Jacey Grayson is forced to go into hiding to protect herself and her son from her violent ex-husband. She's not happy about the deception required, especially when she sees her son becoming sullen and withdrawn. But she finds a sense of safety at the ranch in rural Utah with Grant and Helen, two very lovable characters. Of course, the story doesn't end there, and her sense of security is shattered when her ex shows up and takes Blaze, her son.
I don't want to give too much of the story away, but I do want to say that this is an edge-of-your-seat story, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I love that I couldn't figure out which way the story was going from the beginning, as happens many times with books. Never fear, there is also plenty of romance for our sympathetic, very likeable heroine. Slack handles the abuse, romance, sense of family, suspense and action with a masterful hand, never too heavy handed or preachy, and never glossing over the reality of Jacey's situation. I highly recommend this book.
About the author:

She loves to hear from here readers. Please contact her @ mandislack@gmail.com
* Purchase The Alias Here *
Published on January 23, 2013 23:00
January 21, 2013
Fractured Soul Blog Tour


Llona will do whatever it takes to protect her new found friends and home, but the dark plot threatening Lucent Academy, a school that’s supposed to be a safe place for Auras, may be too powerful for even Llona to defeat. This fast-paced tale of love, loyalty, and overcoming the darkness will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page!
My Review of Fractured Soul by RachelMcClellan
I have to begin by telling you I’m a fan of the prequel to this book, Fractured Light , so when Rachel asked me to review Fractured Soulfor an endorsement, I jumped at the chance just so I could read it before it was released. Good decision on my part.
It isn’t often that a sequel comes along that’s even better than the original, but Rachel managed to do that with this book. I read the entire book in a couple of days, sneaking it in between when I was supposed to be working. I couldn’t wait to read the next chapter, and was disappointed when it ended. Not because I was disappointed in the ending but because I wanted more pages to read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
In Fractured Soul , Llona and May decide to attend Lucent Academy, and idea presented to them in the first book by Aunt Sophie. Lucent Academy is supposed to be a safe haven for girls with gifts like Llona and May, but things aren’t always what they seem. Lucent Academy is under attack from some evil forces that desire the destruction of the Auras. In the midst of that, Llona is experiencing some dark feelings that go against the light. What seems like normal teen rebellion turns out to be something that threatens her very soul.
I’m not going to give away any more of the story than that, other than to say that not only do the necessary characters play a part (helllllo, Christian!) but that new characters are also introduced that I hope to see plenty more of in the next book. In fact, I’d like to see an entire book based on Liam and how he came to be.
Fractured Soul is a brilliant sequel, exceeding even the remarkable first book in the series. Fast paced, exciting, and intriguing, it kept me guessing until the very last page what would happen next. The ending was shocking and heartbreaking, but absolutely perfe
What others are saying:
“I love these books! A kick-butt heroine and a hottie love interest, with a refreshingly original concept. Be prepared—once you start, these are hard to put down.”—Paula Cotton, book reviewer at ReadingLark.blogspot.com
Author Bio

RachelMcClellan was born and raised in Idaho, a place secretly known for its supernatural creatures. When she's not in her writing lair, she's partying with her husband and four crazy, yet lovable, children. Rachel's love for storytelling began as a child when the moon first possessed the night. For when the lights went out, her imagination painted a whole new world. And what a scary world it was...
Find Rachel
Facebook | Blog | Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Book Trailer
Buy Fractured Light
Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Buy Fractured Soul
Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Fractured Soul Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
Published on January 21, 2013 23:00
January 20, 2013
Back to the Future Giveaway Hop

January 22nd to 28th
Co-hosted by Book Haven ExtraordinaireFor the Back to the Future Giveaway I am going to be giving away a digital copy of Dissidence by Jamie Canosa. Good Luck!About Dissidence

But, even inside the camps, Kaleigh’s fiery spirit refuses to be extinguished. In a single moment of defiance, she manages to spark a riot that ignites into a full-blown rebellion. With growing numbers counting on her, not just for their freedom, but for their very lives, two different boys vying for her heart, and trouble brewing from within the camp itself, can Kaleigh find a way to step up and become the leader everyone is counting on her to be, or will even the most carefully laid plans come crashing down around her?My Dissidence Review
Disclaimer: Dissidence is published by Prose by Design, which I happen to co-own. It might seem self-serving to promote and give the book a good review, but I want you to know I gave it the review I’d have given it no matter who published it. I just happen to be lucky enough to have read the novel before anyone else and snap it up before another publisher.
So, without further ado, here’s my review:
I’m a huge fan of dystopian novels. That being said, it can sometimes be difficult to find one that’s so good it sucks me in.
Dissidence is definitely one of those books. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed Jamie’s book. I couldn’t stop reading it. In fact, as one of the editors, I kept forgetting to edit because I was so entranced by the story. I’d have to go back and re-read what I’d already read to do my job.Jamie has weaved a tale in the vein of Hunger Games or Divergent, but with a completely unique story and heroine. Kaleigh doesn’t ever intend to be a hero, but she can’t stand by and watch someone else abused by a system that the general population isn’t even aware exists. Her instinctive action begins a revolution. Aided by the hunky Connor, she sneaks back into a work camp—in spite of the fact that everyone else is trying to get out—to rescue her lifelong friend Peter.
You’ll fall completely in love with all three main characters. Kaleigh in particular holds a special place in my heart because of her beautiful sarcasm and humor. Jamie wrote her in such a way that half the time you don’t know whether to laugh, cry, or jump into the pages and help her kick some butt.
The story is fast paced and ends far too soon, only because I wanted to stay in Kaleigh, Peter, and Connor’s world a little longer. Dissidence is an absolutely brilliant book.
If you like Jamie’s writing, I also highly recommend Our Own Worst Enemies , her short story in Screams in the Night: Tales of Terror(where I also happen to have a story, but hers is far better than mine). That’s honestly my all-time favorite zombie story—and that’s saying a lot considering I’m a fan of them (The Walking Dead, anyone?)
I not only highly recommend this book, I strongly encourage you to immediately get a copy and read it!
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Published on January 20, 2013 23:00