Roxanne Kade's Blog, page 341

Zephyr: The West Wind by R.J.Tolson

Hello Therians!! Today I'd like to showcase a book written by the multi-talented R.J.Tolson. It seems that R.J. can do just about anything he puts his mind to, and Zephyr: The West Wind ( The Chaos Chronicles #1 ) is proof of that.  An amazing, magical story - it will draw you in and capture your heart. Check out the other stops on the Blog Tour, hosted byJKSCommunications.
 



BOOK DETAILS

Paperback, $19.75
ISBN: 978-0615686431
YA Fantasy, 489 pages
Universal Kingdom Print
August 21, 2012

SYNOPSIS
17 years ago, in the island village of Dentro, lived a large and powerful demon. With just a howl, mountains were obliterated. With the help of an outsider, the chief of Dentro destroyed the demon and sealed its dark power into three powerful ancient weapons: a spear, shield, and a sword. After leaving the unwelcoming village, the man who helped destroy the demon took the sword in an effort to keep it away from the village. Months later, a villager bore the son of the outsider, breaking one of the sacred village laws in doing so.
Born into a village filled with people who hated him, Zephyr grew up without knowing why they did. With no friends, and eventually no family with the passing of his mother, Zephyr was forced to survive by himself as an outcast. Zephyr’s only wish being to make his mother proud and force the village to recognize him while surviving in a world filled with demons, paranormal abilities, love, hate and undiscovered lands.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

R.J. Tolson is a 19-year-old CEO, model, musician and debut novelist.
He founded the website building and computer programming company RJTIO and its divisions, RJTINC, Forever Trust Charity and RL Infinity International. He also serves as president of both the metaphysical philosophy group Sages of Essence and literary organization Living Writers.
The accomplished teen can speak 6 languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Greek, Korean and Japanese. Currently studying in his second year in college, as only a freshman R.J. taught a metaphysics college level online course once a week.
A jack-of-all-trades, R.J. played varsity soccer in high school and received his black belt in nin-jit-su and senjutsu. And with his love of music and experience as a lyricist, composer and musician, R.J. releases in summer 2013 his debut album Human, comprised of house, acoustic, pop and hip/hop.
Writing is perhaps R.J.’s greatest passion. In 2012 he launched the first novel of his young adult Chaos Chronicles series, Zephyr the West Wind. Forthcoming titles from the new author include a Zephyr sequel Hugh The Southern Flame and romance novel Blood Red Love. 
R.J. was born to a dentist father and lawyer/professional tennis player mother. He lived throughout Virginia, Connecticut and Washington, D.C. before heading to college on the west coast.



   Connect with R.J.Tolson
WebsiteTwitterFacebookGoodreads



HAPPY READING!!

Cover Reveal: Fire Country by David Estes

Hello Therians!! David Estes has fast become one of my all time favorite authors. He creates amazing stories that suck you in from page one, and that is why I am super excited to be showcasing the cover for Fire Country, Book #1 in The Country Saga.  Now before I do, I'd just like to say CONGRATULATIONS to David! I look forward to reading all your future projects. May you have a long and successful (without a doubt!) career as an author! Okay, let's get back to that cover :) Ta da!    This cover is so beautiful. I was left breathless the first time I saw it. 
Title: Fire Country (Country Saga #1)Author: David EstesPublisher: ShareAread Release Date: February 1st, 2013Formats:  E-bookGoodreads TBR: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16160701-fire-countryCover Artist:Regina Wamba - http://www.maeidesign.com/

SYNOPSIS
In a changed world where the sky bleeds red, winter is hotter than hell and full of sandstorms, and summer's even hotter with raging fires that roam the desert-like country, the Heaters manage to survive, barely.

Due to toxic air, life expectancies are so low the only way the tribe can survive is by forcing women to procreate when they turn sixteen and every three years thereafter. It is their duty as Bearers.

Fifteen-year-old Siena is a Youngling, soon to be a Bearer, when she starts hearing rumors of another tribe of all women, called the Wild Ones. They are known to kidnap Youngling girls before the Call, the ceremony in which Bearers are given a husband with whom to bear children with.

As the desert sands run out on her life's hourglass, Siena must uncover the truth about the Wild Ones while untangling the web of lies and deceit her father has masterfully spun.






Press Release Contact: Karla Calzada Publicist
http://sharearead.com/
karla@shareAread.com

Early praise for the author
“David created a world I was excited to learn about and characters I cared about. I'll remember this story for a very long time!” Alexandria Nicole ~Goodreads

 “Estes delivers a winner with confident writing that truly draws you into the story. “Think ~ Goodreads

 “The author, David Estes, has forged his name into writers to be watched and read.”Marni ~Goodreads

 “David is such a fantastic author and he really knows how to pull at the heartstrings.”Kay ~K-Books

 

About the Author 

David Estes was born in El Paso, Texas but moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania when he was very young. He grew up in Pittsburgh and then went to Penn State for college. Eventually moved to Sydney, Australia where he met his wife. A reader all his life, he began writing novels for the children's and YA markets in 2010. He´s a writer with OCD, a love of dancing and singing (but only when no one is looking or listening), a mad-skilled ping-pong player, and prefers writing at the swimming pool to writing at a table
 

 
You can follow David at:
Blog
Author Facebook Page
Twitter
Goodreads
Goodreads fan page


The Dwellers Saga

 
The Moon Dwellers Synopsis:
In a desperate attempt to escape destruction decades earlier, humankind was forced underground, into the depths of the earth, creating a new society called the Tri-Realms.

After her parents and sister are abducted by the Enforcers, seventeen-year-old Adele, a member of the middle-class moon dwellers, is unjustly sentenced to life in prison for her parents' crimes of treason.

Against all odds, Adele must escape from the Pen and find her family, while being hunted by a deranged, killing machine named Rivet, who works for the President. She is helped by two other inmates, Tawni and Cole, each of whom have dark secrets that are better left undiscovered. Other than her friends, the only thing she has going for her is a wicked roundhouse kick and two fists that have been well-trained for combat by her father.

At the other end of the social spectrum is Tristan, the son of the President and a sun dweller. His mother is gone. He hates his father. Backed by only his servant and best friend, Roc, he leaves his lavish lifestyle in the Sun Realm, seeking to make something good out of his troubled life.

When a war breaks out within the Tri-Realms, Tristan is thrust into the middle of a conflict that seems to mysteriously follow Adele as she seeks to find her family and uncover her parents true past.
Buying Links
 Kindle EbookAmazon PaperbackB&N EbookSmashwords Ebook
 
The Star Dwellers Synopsis:
 After rescuing her father and younger sister, Adele is forced to leave her family and Tristan behind to find her mother in the cruel and dangerous realm of the star dwellers.
Amidst blossoming feelings for Adele, Tristan must cast his feelings aside and let her find her own way amongst the star dwellers, while he accompanies Adele's father to meet with the leaders of the moon dwellers and decide the fate of the Tri-Realms.
Will Adele be able to rescue her mother and make it back to the Moon Realm before the President and the sun dweller soldiers destroy her family?

Can Tristan convince the moon dweller puppets of the error of their ways?

Was Adele's lost kiss with Tristan her one and only chance at love?

In her world there's only one rule: Someone must die.

Buying Links
Kindle EbookAmazon PaperbackB&N EbookSmashwords Ebook
 
The Sun Dwellers Synopsis:

With those she's closest to dying around her, Adele embarks on a secret mission to the Sun Realm to assassinate the President. Along the way she'll uncover secrets about her relationship with Tristan that she might not be ready to face.
Tristan has a secret, too, one that's been eating him up inside ever since he met Adele. Will he reveal all, and risk the loss of friendship and love at a time when he needs it the most?
At the same time, Adele's mother, General Rose, must lead her soldiers into battle to face the sun dweller army in the hopes of holding them off until Adele can complete her mission. Can she outlast the strength of President Nailin's elite fighting force?

There's only one truth in their world: someone must die.
 Buying Links
Kindle Ebook Amazon Paperback B&N EbookSmashwords Ebook


Bonus Material
Includes a bonus Dwellers Short Story (Anna's Story) and a sneak peek at David Estes's follow up YA Dystopian
Series, Fire Country!

The Dwellers Saga books are now available everywhere eBooks and paperbacks are sold via Amazon.com. Also, David pledged when he started writing to always respond to his readers, and he loves getting comments and questions, so please contact him using one of his favorite social networking sites below.  He loves to get in contact with readers.


Other YA Books by David Estes

The Country Saga (A Dwellers sister series):
Book One—Fire Country (Coming March 1, 2013!)


The Evolution Trilogy:Book 1- Angel Evolution Book 2- Demon Evolution Book 3- Archangel Evolution

Children’s Books by David Estes


The Nikki Powergloves Adventures:Nikki Powergloves- A Hero is BornNikki Powergloves and the Power Council Nikki Powergloves and the Power TrappersNikki Powergloves and the Great AdventureNikki Powergloves vs. the Power Outlaws (Coming in 2013!)

HAPPY READING!!

Review & Character Interview: Éire’s Captive Moon by Sandi Layne

Hello, Therians!! Welcome to my stop on the Éire’s Captive Moon Blog Tour presented by
The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House.

 

 Category: Historical FictionPublication date: Jan 10, 2013ISBN (paper): 978-1-61213-137-5ISBN (ebook): 978-1-61213-138-2  
SYNOPSIS 
Éire’s Captive Moon, the first book of Sandi Layne’s Éire’s Viking Trilogy, brings you to the unsettled era of the early Viking raids along the coast of Éire – today’s Ireland.

Red-striped sails make their first appearance on the shores near the village of Ragor and the peaceful life of the villagers is obliterated in one deadly raid. Agnarr Halvardson and his overlord, Tuirgeis, have come to Éire for treasure, honor, and slaves.

After slaying her husbands, Agnarr claims Charis, the healer of the village, as his personal medicine woman – and sex slave. Cowan, a local prince, is captured by Tuirgeis to serve as translator for trading journeys. Leaving the smoking ruins of Ragor and Bangor Monastery behind them – as well as the children Charis had carefully hidden from the Northmen – the invaders sail away.

Cowan, a Christian, is captivated by the pale, widowed herbalist, and finds himself in love with her by the time they reach Nordweg, where they will spend the winter. He is compelled to leave her, however, to serve his master.

The winter brings many trials. An invasion from another village’s warriors throws Cowan and Charis together more intimately than she is prepared to handle equitably. Her own feelings are growing uncertain, though she reminds herself that she has to return to Éire and the children she left there. As winter passes in Nordweg, Charis plans vengeance upon Agnarr even as she learns to see him differently. Beset by accusations of witchcraft, hounded by Agnarr’s betrothed and her slave – a refugee Charis herself healed more than a year before – and having to adapt to the strange language and customs among the people around her, Charis still makes her plans. Will she be able to put aside her feelings and escape when spring returns?




REVIEW
 
I love historical fiction, especially stories with a strong romance angle. There's just something about being swept away to another time and place that adds to the romantic element, and Sandi Layne's Éire’s Captive Moon did not disappoint in the least. In fact, I think it was probably one of the best historical fiction novels that I have read in forever.

The characters are all believable and even though a few of them were deplorable at times, there was no way I could stop from falling in love with them. Charis has such a strong personality and high morals that I couldn't fault her in any way. I love that she stood up for what was right and just, in her eyes, and she wasn't going to let anything stand in her way. There was a time when I thought her mind had been swayed (perhaps a small part of me was hoping for it), but I was pleasantly surprised when the unexpected happened. I think that's what makes this story such an amazing success. It was unpredictable in the best possible way.

Agnarr is a bit of a brute, but he wouldn't have been a credible character had he been any different. As the story unfolded I got to see the many layers of Charis's captor, and it allowed for me to really understand and connect with him. I felt sorry for him. He was a man on a mission, and even though it may have seemed like his choices were wrong, it was all he knew, so how could he be faulted.

Overall, this story was exciting and unique. It took me on an amazing adventure back in time, filled with action, romance and intrigue. It truly was captivating!


It gets...





Not only did I get the chance to read this amazing book, but I also got to spend some time with the charming and brave Cowan. Here's what he had to say:
Hello Cowan,
 
Thanks for joining me today.

1.      What was the first thing that crossed your mind when you were taken captive? Well, now, I’d have to say that escape was the first thing, but I knew in order to do that I’d have to be smart and not cause trouble.
2.      Why did you return for Martin, rather than going back to your father for help? I couldn’t just leave him alone. I couldn’t. He was like a child, innocent for all his studies, and I thought that I could help him if I returned. *sighs*
3.      In all the time that you were captive, is there anything you would have done differently?  I shouldn’t have been so cowardly about telling others about the One True God. I worried more than I should have about it, I’m thinking.
4.      You seemed to have it much easier than the other slaves, is that why you bent to Tuirgeis’ will so easily? Easier? Well, compared to some of them, aye. I believe that Tuirgeis respected me when he took me and so he treated me well.  A translator who has an axe to grind is not to be trusted. How would he have known that I would have given him true service, regardless? I would have, of course, but he didn’t know that. And, too, I respected the man. I did. He wasn’t inherently a bad man - I still don’t think so, even if I didn’t want to stay with him.5.      There seemed a time when you looked up to him, even respected him, and were quite comfortable to be his “brother”, would you ever have left had Charis not hatched her own plan to escape? I’ll tell you the truth, if it hadn’t been for Charis, I could have been content, aye.  Especially when I was adopted. Now, it’s true that I still wanted to return to my people, but I probably would have waited on it, until Tuirgeis himself was ready to return to Éire.
6.      Speaking of Charis, how is she? Still as defiant as ever? *grins broadly with a faint flush rising up his throat* Well, now. Life is good, with her. Very good. We’ve got the children sorted out and have a home of our own, now, with room enough for her herbs. 
7.      When did you know you were in love with her? I think I started caring for her almost right away, when she was causing so much trouble for Agnarr before we were even taken on the longship. But, though it might seem shameful to say it, I do believe my heart was lost the night I found her crying the first time alone on the ship after she’d spent the day with him. Agnarr.
8.      What about Charis has you most enamoured? The woman has spirit. And you’ve never seen anything like the way she can look at a man. But even though she’s strong enough to go it alone, for she can and will, she’s chosen not to. She chose to go with me. Even when we weren’t going anywhere, and even though I knew that she had her own reasons, still.  *sighing and shaking his head*
 9.      As a man who follows the One True God, was there ever a moment you believed Charis to be a cailleach, especially after witnessing her healing abilities?

To be honest with you? It wasn't her healing that made me wonder. It was when she called the fog. *shakes his head* As eerie a thing as I've ever seen I'll tell you that for certain.

10.      If, she had in fact turned out to be a wielder of dark magic, would that have changed your view of her?Aye, I think it would have. If I had had *proof* that she was a true witch?  *sighs* That's a serious thing, and it touches on a power that I don't think I would be wanting to have near me.


Well I think that just about sums it up. Thanks again for the chat.

 BOOK TRAILER


Get your copy today!! The Writer's Coffee ShopAmazon PrintAmazon Kindle    ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Having been a voracious reader all her life, Sandi never expected to want to write until the idea was presented in a backhanded manner. Once the notion occurred to her, though, she had to dive in the deep end (as is her wont) and began by writing historical fiction. She has since written more than twenty novels—most of which will never see the light of day.

Sandi has degrees in English and Ministry, has studied theology, spent years as an educator, has worked in escrow and sundry other careers, but research is her passion. She won an award for Celtic Fiction in 2003, but as well as history, she is also fascinated with contemporary research and has self-published several novels in the Inspirational Romance genre.

She has been married for twenty years to a man tolerant enough to let her go giddy when she discovers new words in Old Norse. Her two sons find her amusing and have enjoyed listening to her read aloud—especially when she uses funny voices. A woman of deep faith, she still finds a great deal to laugh at in the small moments of the everyday and hopes that she can help others find these moments, too.



Connect with Sandi Layne WebsiteTwitterFacebookGoodreads



HAPPY READING!!

Review: The Specialists: Model Spy by Shannon Greenland

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: JKSCommunications Marissa DeCuir 347.574.3136 marissa@jkscommunications.com 
AWARD-WINNING YA SPY SERIES COMES TO E-READERS

Penguin Publishing brings back Shannon Greenland’s The Specialists, featuring girl tech genius GiGi, after successful paperback release


NEW YORK, NY – October 2012 – Shannon Greenland’s award-winning teen spy series The Specialists is brought back to the spotlight after six years in paperback. The 5-book series releases on Kindle, Nook and all e-readers this winter from Penguin Publishing.

Inspired from the hit television show Alias, Greenland’s book series begins with Model Spy (originally debuted in 2007) when 16-year-old Kelly James is caught uncovering top-secret information for her irresistibly cute and nice friend David. Rather than serve a jail sentence, she accepts the option to change her identity and enlist in a government spy agency that trains teen agents. Instantly, Kelly Spree, a.k.a. girl genius GiGi, is born and sent on her first mission as an undercover model with a partner she’s surprised to find as an agent himself.


The Specialists e-book release comes on the heels of Penguin’s publication of Greenland’s stand-alone novel The Summer My Life Began, which was chosen as a Hot YA Read by the She Knows Book Lounge, and devoured by librarians who called it “terrific” (School Library Journal) and “a breeze to get through; light and entertaining” (Texas librarian Jen Bigheart).
Greenland’s impressive nine-book career – she also previously released three romantic suspense novels – has earned her awards from National Booksellers, Romantic Times, National Readers Choice, American Library Association, Daphne du Maurier and many more prestigious literary organizations.
“Brilliant,” Kidz World; “Greenland makes you ride along, and I love it!” Echelon Press; “Hours of good reading,” Scribes World; “The imagery used to twine the characters lives is amazing,” Writers Unlimited; “Sure to surprise,” The Readers Studio; “Witty and very adventurous. Readers will not be disappointed,” Teens Read – are just a snippet of the high-praised comments Greenland has received for her writing.
Readers can grab a copy of any of Greenland’s novels wherever books are sold or downloaded. The Specialists Series is also available in audio book format.

About the author: Shannnon Greenland grew up in a small Tennessee town as a kid who dreaded reading and writing. Ironic, as she’s now a successful award-winning author of nine young adult novels. When not writing, Greenland’s eager for adventure outside of a book’s pages. Hiking, rafting, climbing, caving, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, mountain biking, canoeing, power lifting, running, camping, para sailing . . . she’s done it all. The world traveler divides her time between Florida and Virginia where she tutors math students and gives author talks at area schools. She’s currently at work on a new suspense trilogy set in Washington D.C.





REVIEW  This was truly a fun and exciting read from start to finish.
 Gigi is such an amazing character and she's unlike any I have encountered in previous reads. Yes, she's geeky and sometimes clumsy, but she's also gorgeous to the point where she could be a Victoria Secret's model. She seems to have it all, without being conceited. I kind of had a hard time believing she wasn't higher on the social food chain though, but I guess that only added to her character. She's a beauty that goes unnoticed because of her geeky ways.   Another character I really warmed to, although a secondary character, is Chapling. I love his oddball goofiness. No wonder Gigi connected with him so easily, aside for their shared love of technology.  TL and David are still a bit of a mystery to me. There is obviously more to TL than meets the eye, and I cannot wait to learn more about him.   As for David, I feel like I don’t have him completely figured out. He plays hot and cold with Gigi and I can’t help wondering why, because the chemistry between them is explosive. Does it have something to do with their work at IPNC or is there more to the story?   Apart from the romance that ‘is, but isn’t’…this story is action-packed and thrilling.

  It gets...

 



 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  Shannon Greenland dreaded reading and writing as a kid. Ironic, as she’s now a successful award-winning author. Her 5-book series for young adults, The Specialists, as well as her other novels, received such honors as National Booksellers Best, Daphne du Maurier and Romantic Times recognition, National Readers Choice, CAPA nominee, Aspen Gold Readers Choice Award, Holt Medallion and the Popular Paperback award from the American Library Association.Penguin Publishing launched Greenland’s latest novel The Summer My Life Began in May 2012, and brings her entire spy series to e-form this winter. When not writing, Shannon’s eager for adventure outside of a book’s pages. Hiking, rafting, climbing, caving, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, mountain biking, spelunking, canoeing, power lifting, running, camping, para sailing . . . she’s done it all.
Originally from Tennessee, the world traveler divides her time between Florida and Virginia where she mentors, tutors, and teaches math and gives authors talks at area schools.
 Connect with Shannon Greenland Website
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads   HAPPY READING!!



 

Parallel Visions by Cheryl Rainfield ON SALE!!!

Hey Therians!! I have a real treat for you.  Parallel Visions by Cheryl Rainfield is on sale at only $0.99 until January, 19th!! So what are you waiting for? Get your copy now!!
SALE LINKS: Amazon
Kobo
    A new YA fantasy from award-winning author of SCARS and HUNTED Cheryl Rainfield.

Visions can kill you. Would you risk your life to save someone else’s?

Kate sees psychic visions of the future and the past—but only when she's having an asthma attack. When she "sees" her sister being beaten, she needs more visions to try to save her, along with a suicidal classmate—but triggering her asthma could kill her. Parallel Visions is the story of one brave, caring girl whose unusual gifts put her own life in danger.Show more Show less
 Check out the book trailer:



   About the Author:

I love to read. Books nurture me, helped me survive the abuse I endured as a child and teen. I also love to write. I write fantasy books and edgy, realistic fiction for teens.
 My fantasy books often hold hope that I need, and feel others might need, too, while my realistic fiction is gritty, intense, and emotional. All of my books have fragments of the abuse I experienced. I write about some of the harsh things teens go through...things that I think shouldn't be hidden. But I also write about healing, hope, and love, and finding courage and strength.  In SCARS (WestSide, 2010), Kendra must face her past and stop hurting herself before it's too late. It's my arm on the cover. There's a lot of me in SCARS; like my main character, Kendra, I am an incest survivor, I used self-harm to cope, and I'm queer. In my teen paranormal fantasy/dystopian, HUNTED (WestSide, Oct 2011), Caitlyn is a telepath in a world where that is illegal, and she must choose between saving herself or saving the world. Like Caitlyn, I know what it's like to have my life threatened, to face oppression, to experience torture, and to break free from cult or from a group of oppressors. And I know what it's like to have to decide between hiding my true self or being who I am, even if that means danger to myself. I drew on my experience with cults and ritual abuse in creating the world that Caitlyn lives in.  In STAINED, my upcoming YA novel from Harcourt (2013), Sarah, who has a port wine stain and some body image issues, is abducted and must find a way to rescue herself. Like Sarah, I was often imprisoned for long periods of time as a child, had my life threatened, and had to rely on my own strength to survive.  Books were my survival during my childhood, and my journey into myself. Books give me hope. I hope mine will give you hope, too, or something that you need.
Connect with Cheryl Rainfield:

book blog
Twitter
Google+
FaceBook
GoodReads
Scars Fan Page on FaceBook
Figment
Pinterest
on email Cheryl[at]CherylRainfield[dot]com 





HAPPY READING!!

The Specialists: Model Spy - Guest Post with Shannon Greenland

     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: JKSCommunicationsMarissa DeCuir 347.574.3136 marissa@jkscommunications.com

AWARD-WINNING YA SPY SERIES COMES TO E-READERS
Penguin Publishing brings back Shannon Greenland’s The Specialists, featuring girl tech genius GiGi, after successful paperback release  
NEW YORK, NY – October 2012 – Shannon Greenland’s award-winning teen spy series The Specialists is brought back to the spotlight after six years in paperback. The 5-book series releases on Kindle, Nook and all e-readers this winter from Penguin Publishing.

Inspired from the hit television show Alias, Greenland’s book series begins with Model Spy (originally debuted in 2007) when 16-year-old Kelly James is caught uncovering top-secret information for her irresistibly cute and nice friend David. Rather than serve a jail sentence, she accepts the option to change her identity and enlist in a government spy agency that trains teen agents. Instantly, Kelly Spree, a.k.a. girl genius GiGi, is born and sent on her first mission as an undercover model with a partner she’s surprised to find as an agent himself.

The Specialists e-book release comes on the heels of Penguin’s publication of Greenland’s stand-alone novel The Summer My Life Began, which was chosen as a Hot YA Read by the She Knows Book Lounge, and devoured by librarians who called it “terrific” (School Library Journal) and “a breeze to get through; light and entertaining” (Texas librarian Jen Bigheart).Greenland’s impressive nine-book career – she also previously released three romantic suspense novels – has earned her awards from National Booksellers, Romantic Times, National Readers Choice, American Library Association, Daphne du Maurier and many more prestigious literary organizations.
  “Brilliant,” Kidz World; “Greenland makes you ride along, and I love it!” Echelon Press; “Hours of good reading,” Scribes World; “The imagery used to twine the characters lives is amazing,” Writers Unlimited; “Sure to surprise,” The Readers Studio; “Witty and very adventurous. Readers will not be disappointed,” Teens Read – are just a snippet of the high-praised comments Greenland has received for her writing.Readers can grab a copy of any of Greenland’s novels wherever books are sold or downloaded. The Specialists Series is also available in audio book format.
About the author: Shannnon Greenland grew up in a small Tennessee town as a kid who dreaded reading and writing. Ironic, as she’s now a successful award-winning author of nine young adult novels. When not writing, Greenland’s eager for adventure outside of a book’s pages. Hiking, rafting, climbing, caving, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, mountain biking, canoeing, power lifting, running, camping, para sailing . . . she’s done it all. The world traveler divides her time between Florida and Virginia where she tutors math students and gives author talks at area schools. She’s currently at work on a new suspense trilogy set in Washington D.C. 
    RESEARCH A Guest Post by Shannon Greenland As a writer, one of the questions I get asked the most is, “How did you research that?”            Well, for one there is always the internet for quick info. But I absolutely LOVE the hands on approach. When I wrote Model Spy I spent the day with a computer specialist just observing the “goings on” of his lifestyle. I also had a few hours lesson on modeling and learned how to walk a runway. With Down To The Wire I took diving lessons. I also learned how to pick a lock. (I’m not sure if I should be divulging that!)With The Winning Element I spent a day at a cheerleading camp. All I can say is, those girls work hard.With Native Tongue I volunteered at a stable to learn about horses. I also spent the day with a linguist who (to this day) has got to be the most fascinating person I have ever met.With Fight To The Finish I took martial arts classes. And few people know this, but I am a huge fan of Ultimate Fighting. So when I was creating Bruiser’s character, I think I had about the most fun ever.But that’s just with my Specialists series. With my latest, The Summer My Life Began, I surfed, rode mopeds, visited farmer’s markets and actually cooked every recipe Em does in the book.Back track a few years to when I wrote romantic suspense for adults. I went caving, was a roadie with music group, and sailed across an ocean.Like I said, I go all out. Research has got to be the best part ever.     ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Shannon Greenland dreaded reading and writing as a kid. Ironic, as she’s now a successful award-winning author. Her 5-book series for young adults, The Specialists, as well as her other novels, received such honors as National Booksellers Best, Daphne du Maurier and Romantic Times recognition, National Readers Choice, CAPA nominee, Aspen Gold Readers Choice Award, Holt Medallion and the Popular Paperback award from the American Library Association.
 Penguin Publishing launched Greenland’s latest novel The Summer My Life Began in May 2012, and brings her entire spy series to e-form this winter.
When not writing, Shannon’s eager for adventure outside of a book’s pages. Hiking, rafting, climbing, caving, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, mountain biking, spelunking, canoeing, power lifting, running, camping, para sailing . . . she’s done it all.
Originally from Tennessee, the world traveler divides her time between Florida and Virginia where she mentors, tutors, and teaches math and gives authors talks at area schools.
 
Connect with Shannon Greenland
Website
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads HAPPY READING!!

The Tides of Avarice by John Dahlgren

Hello Therians! I have another exciting Sagaria legend for you :)May I present The Tides of Avarice by John Dahlgren!

To find out more about this amazing book check out the blog tour hosted by JKSCommunications.
 




BOOK DETAILS

Paperback, $14.95ISBN: 978-9814260534YA fantasy, 464 pagesEditions Didier MilletJune 16, 2011
 Synopsis  
BLIMEY! It’s something all pirates are taught when they’re small, but too many of them forget:
Never get on the wrong side of a librarian. Especially if the librarian is a lemming! Sylvester used to read about cannibals, impenetrable jungles, lethal carnivores, mysterious fortune-tellers, voodoo magic, cutthroat pirates, shipwrecks, mutinies, spaceships and much else in his books, but he never thought he’d encounter them for real. Can Sylvester save his sweetheart, Viola, her frighteningly gritty mom and the other friends he’s acquired along the way? Can he find his long-lost father, rescue his hometown of Foxglove from the murderous rule of its ruthless mayor, and discover true happiness? Oh, did we mention that Sylvester has mistakenly received the most sought after treasure map ever? This means he also has to escape from the cruelest and craziest pirate captain who ever sailed the seas of Sagaria – the horrifying Cap’n Terrigan Rustbane who will stop at nothing to get his map back! A map which leads to a treasure beyond the wildest dreams of avarice... It’s kind of a tall order.
 But then Sylvester is a librarian. And a lemming.




   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: JKSCommunicationsGrace Wright 615-715-8465 grace@jkscommunications.com


JOHN DAHLGREN ADAPTS CLASSICAL FANTASY STORYTELLING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

Swedish award-winning author heads to U.S. for first ever book tour overseas



December 2012 – A librarian lemming took readers on a nautical pirate’s adventure in The Tides of Avarice, landing in a fantasy world set three hundred years earlier in John Dahlgren’s second young adult novel Sagaria. The Swedish author travels over seas himself for his first U.S. book tour in winter 2013.

As a trained psychologist, it’s no surprise most of the high praise Dahlgren has received for his writing focuses on the three-dimensional characters he’s created. Readers are particularly entranced by Tides villain Cap’n Rustbane’s constant mood shifts as a highly intelligent yet brutal man suffering from schizophrenia.

“Each character is unique and I’ve tried to get into their heads – definitely a work related hazard, being a psychologist – to see how each and every one of them would react when facing an unexpected situation,” Dahlgren said. “They also learn a lot about themselves during their adventures together.”

Having grown up close to the vast and untamed landscapes of Scandinavia, Dahlgren was influenced from an early age by the Nordic sagas and mythologies. The enchanting environment is evident in his young adult tales that re-introduce the Victorian writing style and a touch of cozy fairytale surroundings.

Dahlgren also spent time researching the books at natural history museums to compare animal sizes and traits, in Stockholm to study a well-preserved ship from the 17th century, and all throughout the caves, mountains and castles of Switzerland.

“Even when writing fiction and fantasy, things have to make at least somereal sense. Otherwise, the story collapses and the reader’s interest lost,”Dahglren explains. “As Mark Twain once said, ‘The difference between fiction and reality is that fiction has to make sense.’”

Tides became a Fantasy Fiction finalist in the International Book Awards and Silver Medal winner in Fantasy Fiction from ForeWord ’s Book of the Year Awards. The magazine said the debut was “as cheering and as engaging a swashbuckling yarn as any a pirate lover could imagine.” Readers were just as pleased with Dahlgren’s second novel Sagaria, which re-releases as a three-part eBook series in January 2013.

Hugo and World Fantasy award-winning author John Grant describes Dahlgren as “constantly inventive,” and Bestsellersworld.com calls him “a masterful storyteller.” Lifestyle Magazine said Tides is “reminiscent of a furry version of Pirates of the Caribbean. The characters are endearing and the story has both depth and soul.” Book blogger Ray Mears said she found herself “outflanked” by Dahlgren, thinking she knew where the story was going, “only to find it took a completely unexpected turn. That hasn’t happened for a while. Buy it, read it, love it. Yarghhhhhh!”

Dahlgren studied creative and fiction writing at Oxford University. A member of the Swiss Psychologist Federation, he has also written nonfiction articles for numerous scientific journals and a Swedish magazine.


Follow Dahlgren on tour this winter at TidesOfAvarice.com .



John Dahlgren
Author Biography

  Born in Sweden, John Dahlgren grew up close to the vast and untamed landscapes of Scandinavia and was influenced from an early age by the Nordic sagas, fairy tales and mythologies. This enchanting environment triggered his imagination and later inspired him to become a fiction writer.

He went on to study creative and fiction writing at Oxford University and competed in the school’s short story contests each year.

As a trained psychologist and member of the Swiss Psychologist Federation, Dahlgren began writing nonfiction articles for numerous scientific journals and a Swedish magazine. But his passion was fiction, and so he debuted as a novelist in 2011 with the young adult story The Tides of Avarice, a finalist for best Fiction/Fantasy in the International Book Awards and Silver Medal winner in ForeWord’s Book of the Year Awards. He released months later a second YA fantasy novel, Sagaria, and is currently engaged in several book projects for both younger readers and adults.

Dahlgren lives now in Neuchâtel, Switzerland with his wife and two children, where he’s worked for the past twelve years as a marketing director at an international pharmaceutical company.
 

Website: JohnDahlgren.com
Twitter: @dahlgrenbooks
Facebook: The Tides of Avarice


HAPPY READING!!

Sagaria by John Dahlgren

Hello Therians!!

Are you looking for a fantastic YA fantasy read?? Well then I suggest you get your hands on Sagaria by John Dahlgren. 
 To find out more about this amazing book check out the blog tour hosted by JKSCommunications.

 BOOK DETAILS

Paperback, $15.95ISBN: 978-9814260527YA fantasy, 504 pagesEditions Didier MilletDecember 16, 2011
    Synopsis Three worlds are in immediate danger!
And unfortunately one of them is yours.  After the mysterious kidnapping of his eccentric grandfather, Sagandran Sacks sets out on a rescue mission. Although he suspects things might get strange, he doesn’t expect his search to bring him to a parallel world! After traveling, or rather falling, into the magical realm of Sagaria (a world that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy novel), young Sagandran finds himself on a breathtaking rollercoaster ride through every fantasy adventure he could possibly wish for (and some he would wish he hadn’t). Expect the unexpected at every moment. Chivalrous frogs, bungling wizards, blabbering rodents, captivating trolls, annoying gnomes, magical theme parks, chatting furniture, mad jello puddings, madder ghosts and beautiful but merciless evil-doers are just a few of the encounters that await you! Not to mention, the most powerful and ruthless sorcerer ever who desperately wants your world! Oh, and by the way, he wants your soul too…
Breathless suspense, helter-skelter adventure and riotous good humor – all the trademarks of a John Dahlgren story are here in abundance.










FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: JKSCommunicationsGrace Wright 615-715-8465 grace@jkscommunications.com

JOHN DAHLGREN ADAPTS CLASSICAL FANTASY STORYTELLING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
Swedish award-winning author heads to U.S. for first ever book tour overseas


December 2012 – A librarian lemming took readers on a nautical pirate’s adventure in The Tides of Avarice, landing in a fantasy world set three hundred years earlier in John Dahlgren’s second young adult novel Sagaria. The Swedish author travels over seas himself for his first U.S. book tour in winter 2013.
As a trained psychologist, it’s no surprise most of the high praise Dahlgren has received for his writing focuses on the three-dimensional characters he’s created. Readers are particularly entranced by Tides villain Cap’n Rustbane’s constant mood shifts as a highly intelligent yet brutal man suffering from schizophrenia.
“Each character is unique and I’ve tried to get into their heads – definitely a work related hazard, being a psychologist – to see how each and every one of them would react when facing an unexpected situation,” Dahlgren said. “They also learn a lot about themselves during their adventures together.”
Having grown up close to the vast and untamed landscapes of Scandinavia, Dahlgren was influenced from an early age by the Nordic sagas and mythologies. The enchanting environment is evident in his young adult tales that re-introduce the Victorian writing style and a touch of cozy fairytale surroundings.
Dahlgren also spent time researching the books at natural history museums to compare animal sizes and traits, in Stockholm to study a well-preserved ship from the 17th century, and all throughout the caves, mountains and castles of Switzerland.
“Even when writing fiction and fantasy, things have to make at least somereal sense. Otherwise, the story collapses and the reader’s interest lost,”Dahglren explains. “As Mark Twain once said, ‘The difference between fiction and reality is that fiction has to make sense.’”
Tides became a Fantasy Fiction finalist in the International Book Awards and Silver Medal winner in Fantasy Fiction from ForeWord ’s Book of the Year Awards. The magazine said the debut was “as cheering and as engaging a swashbuckling yarn as any a pirate lover could imagine.” Readers were just as pleased with Dahlgren’s second novel Sagaria, which re-releases as a three-part eBook series in January 2013.
Hugo and World Fantasy award-winning author John Grant describes Dahlgren as “constantly inventive,” and Bestsellersworld.com calls him “a masterful storyteller.” Lifestyle Magazine said Tides is “reminiscent of a furry version of Pirates of the Caribbean. The characters are endearing and the story has both depth and soul.” Book blogger Ray Mears said she found herself “outflanked” by Dahlgren, thinking she knew where the story was going, “only to find it took a completely unexpected turn. That hasn’t happened for a while. Buy it, read it, love it. Yarghhhhhh!”
Dahlgren studied creative and fiction writing at Oxford University. A member of the Swiss Psychologist Federation, he has also written nonfiction articles for numerous scientific journals and a Swedish magazine.
 Follow Dahlgren on tour this winter at TidesOfAvarice.com .

 
John DahlgrenAuthor Biography
 
Born in Sweden, John Dahlgren grew up close to the vast and untamed landscapes of Scandinavia and was influenced from an early age by the Nordic sagas, fairy tales and mythologies. This enchanting environment triggered his imagination and later inspired him to become a fiction writer. He went on to study creative and fiction writing at Oxford University and competed in the school’s short story contests each year.
As a trained psychologist and member of the Swiss Psychologist Federation, Dahlgren began writing nonfiction articles for numerous scientific journals and a Swedish magazine. But his passion was fiction, and so he debuted as a novelist in 2011 with the young adult story The Tides of Avarice, a finalist for best Fiction/Fantasy in the International Book Awards and Silver Medal winner in ForeWord’s Book of the Year Awards. He released months later a second YA fantasy novel, Sagaria, and is currently engaged in several book projects for both younger readers and adults.
Dahlgren lives now in Neuchâtel, Switzerland with his wife and two children, where he’s worked for the past twelve years as a marketing director at an international pharmaceutical company.   Website: JohnDahlgren.com Twitter: @dahlgrenbooks Facebook: The Tides of Avarice    HAPPY READING!!

Author Interview: Krystal McLaughlin

Hello Therians!!

Today I'd like to welcome author, Krystal McLaughlin, to the blog :)

Krystal is the author of The Enchanted Island series and The Willows. Check out her books below.

 THE WILLOWS

Life is easy when you have everything you want; great friends, a boyfriend who loves you, a happy family that supports you, brothers that both protect and annoy you. I had all of that… once.
That was before the accident. That was before the murder. That was before… The Willows.

Evelyn Magwire now has a choice to make. Does she turn her back on the mysteries that have consumed her life, or does she face the darkness and find the truth? When her brother comes up missing, the choice is made for her. Forced on a path where her friends become her enemies and her enemies become her friends, Evie learns that the changes happening to herself are the scariest of all. She’s not sure she will ever be the same again… Because some changes are forever… and bloodlust… never dies.


THE WITCHES LOTTERY (THE ENCHANTED ISLAND SERIES)

When Sophia and Drew McKibben's parents are killed in a tragic car accident, they are shipped off to live with an aunt they never even knew existed. Believing that they are moving to a privately owned island just off of the coast of Mystic, CT to live alone with her, they are surprised to find a sort of under-aged bed and breakfast.

Sophia draws the attention of one of the locals, Falen, immediately. He always seems to know exactly what she is thinking, and to her frustration, everything she does seems to amuse him. When a newcomer to the island brings with him a sense of deja vu, she begins to ask herself the ultimate question: Am I going crazy?

Sophia's world starts to unravel when she notices her own brother acting just as abnormal as the rest of them. When she begins to realize that the life she left behind looks even more bizarre then the one she was forced to leave it for, she's faced with a decision to make: embrace the new life that has been given to her, or drown in the past. Either choice brings with it more secrets and deceptions to unearth. The problem now is that the two worlds may actually be more intertwined than she thought.Show More Show Less
  A DRAGON FORSAKEN (THE ENCHANTED ISLAND SERIES) 


In a world of mystery and magic, Daphne is unique.

Unlike her friends, who have awakened to the magic inside of them, Daphne was born with it. Daphne was born a Dragon.

When her past begins to resurface, forcing her into a web of lies and deception, she is forced to accept unexpected alliances and risk everything for the sake of love. Something that she swore she would never let into her life.

As the newest installment of The Enchanted Island Series unfolds, she'll learn that nothing is ever what it seems, and when webs get this tangled, everyone's fate hangs in the balance, and nothing is coincidence.Show More Show Less



And now, let me introduce, Krystal.

Welcome and thank you for visiting :)

1.   Tell us a bit more about yourself. 
I was born a writer.  As far back as I can remember I have always had a story and my head and all I've ever wanted to do is share my characters with the world.  I am also a mother.  I have three beautiful children and an amazingly supportive husband.  By day ~ mostly just to pay the bills ~ I'm a banker :)
 
2.   Describe yourself in three words.
Creative , Compassionate , Supportive
 
3.   What five things do you never leave home without?
My Family, my smart phone, my planner, a notebook, and a pen
 
4.   What do you do when you are not writing? 
Work and spend time with my wonderful family and friends.
          
5.   Who/What inspired you to write your first novel? 
I have been writing my whole life...  I can say that reading Nora Roberts and Johanna Lindsey inspired me to write romance, but JK Rowling inspired me to write Young Adult :) 
 
6.   What has been your most rewarding experience on the road to being published?
I recently had one of my reviewers say that one of my characters is one of her all time favorites.  That was super rewarding and I'll never forget the way it made me feel.    
 
7.   What is the best piece of advice you have been given as an author?
That not everyone is going to like your work and that's okay.  It took me a long time before I was able to accept critisism lightly.
 
8.   What advice would you give to aspiring authors? 
Never give up.  If the love you have for your work comes through into your writing, than people will notice and appreciate that.
 
9.   Who are your favorite authors to read? 
JK Rowling, Nora Roberts, Nicholas Sparks, Meg Cabot
 
10. Tell us a bit about each of the books you’ve written.
The Witches Lottery is about a young girl's journey into the world of magic.  She finds herself thrown into a world filled with the beauty of discovery...  but that discovery isn't always free of evil.
A Dragon Forsaken continues the story of The Witches Lottery, following Daphne - part dragon and part human - as she embarks on a mission to find her missing sister.  Learning along the way that sometimes being alone isn't the best way to travel.
The Willows starts a new series of mystery and darkness in an underground world of... blood.
 
11. Are any of your characters based on someone you know?
My characters are all pieces of people that I know or have known throughout my life as well as a good healthy dose of imagination.
 
12. Who is your favorite character (from each book), and why? 
The Witches Lottery - Falen - Not only is he hot, he is sweet and understanding and super powerful       A Dragon Forsaken - Daphne - She kicks ass!  She is strong and amazing.

      The Willows - Mason - I find him endearingly clueless and extremely loveable.

 
13. Are you working on any special projects at the moment?
I am working on three books simultaneously right now...  Guardian of the Realm: A Faerie Tale is more than halfway done and is about ... you guessed it...  faeries!  The Goblin's Daughter is the third book in the Enchanted Island series following The Witches Lottery and A Dragon Forsaken... and lastly Dragonfly is the first book in a new series that I am super excited about...
 
14. Where can readers stalk you?
      Twitter           @witcheslottery
      Facebook        Under Krystal McLaughlin as well as The Witches Lottery Page, The Willows Page, and The Enchanted Island Series Page
      Blog                krystalmclaughlin.blogspot.com
                             (there is currently a sneek peak of Dragonfly posted there)
      Sales                My books can be found on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords



So if you need something to add to your TBR pile, make sure to get your hands on Krystal McLaughlin's books.
HAPPY READING!!

Of Light and Darkness Official Trailer

Hey Therians!!

Check out the new official trailer for Of Light and Darkness, based on the best-selling novel by Shayne Leighton, starring Micheal Welch, Cassie Scerbo, Johnny Pacar and Alexis Georgoulis, just to name a few.



 GET YOUR COPY OF THIS BEST-SELLER TODAY!! 
  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.



HAPPY READING!!