Jessica Therrien's Blog, page 21
March 7, 2013
STRENGTH Virtual Launch Party!
YAY! I'm so excited. The first MARK OF NEXUS book is being released today. Finally, you can all share in the awesomeness that is STRENGTH by Carrie Butler. Hooray! Visit her blog to take part in her celebratory giveaway :) For those of you who haven't heard of STRENGTH...wehhhell...let me be the one to enlighten you.
When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.
Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation—and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few minor setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…
Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.
They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do—even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.
Available at: Amazon, Kindle, Barnes and Noble, and Nook.
Here is a link to my review of the novel: My Review
CONGRATS CARRIE!!
When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation—and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few minor setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…
Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.
They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do—even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.
Available at: Amazon, Kindle, Barnes and Noble, and Nook.
Here is a link to my review of the novel: My Review
CONGRATS CARRIE!!
March 1, 2013
1st Chapter of Uprising (Children of the Gods #2)
As promised (though a little late) here is the first chapter of
Uprising (Children of the Gods #2)
. Consider this a bribe in exchange for your forgiveness. For those of you who don't know, the original February release was pushed to May 28th. I've been busy with my sweet little baby, who is amazingly 6 weeks old already! It has been so fun, and I'm so glad I chose not to combine new baby craziness with book release business. I can't imagine how hard that would have been. Thanks for your understanding. ENJOY! :)
~PROLOGUE~
Mac led us to a cabin in the thickest part of the woods. It wasn’t old, but it had been lived in, and I wondered how many other visitors had taken refuge there. The kitchen stovetop was stained from overuse, and the futon that sat against the wall sagged in the center where people had slept. As I looked around I breathed in the earthy scent of the forest that had seeped in from outdoors. Aside from the common area, which was both the kitchen and living room in one, there was only a bathroom and a single bedroom. “Sorry if I gave you two a scare back there,” Mac said, collapsing heavily into a seat at the multi-purpose table in the center of the room. “Can never be too sure these days.” He leaned back in the wooden chair, his brawny body testing its strength. I raised my eyebrows at his casual brush-off. Oh, sorry for shoving my loaded shotgun in your face.Maybe it was smart though. Having me heal proved I was who I was—the last healer. Still, poisoning a deer was a little dramatic.“Well, someone could have at least warned us you’d be armed and dangerous,” William said, his voice cutting through the quiet cabin. He took my hand and led me to the futon.“It’s best you just assume that from here on out,” Mac laughed back at him. I didn’t find it as funny. It wasn’t that he frightened me, or that I felt too uncomfortable in this strange place, I just had too many thoughts in my head to process those insignificant feelings. I still hadn’t gotten my bearings. So much had happened in the last twenty-four hours or more. I wasn’t sure how long it had been. “You guys must be hungry,” Mac said, breaking the silence.Starving, I thought. When had I last eaten? My body had moved past hunger pains and was simply ignoring my need for food, at least until it was mentioned. “I think my stomach is eating itself.” William cracked a smile for the first time since the gun incident.Mac stood up, his heavy weight dragging the chair loudly across the old wood floor. He was built like he was made for the military, like he could pick a guy up by his throat or bust a door down with a swift kick. It was strange seeing such a burly man in a dainty kitchen, but he seemed to feel well enough at home. He pulled two plates from the fridge, which he had already prepared for us.“I’m not the best cook, but it should do the job.”I didn’t care if it was mashed celery. I would have eaten anything.“The zucchinis grow out back, and the meat is quail,” he said tentatively, his guttural voice not matching his kind words. “Sorry it’s cold. I could heat the beans up on the stove if you want.”I moved a little too quickly to the table. “It’s fine, thanks,” I said with gratitude. I could see he wasn’t a cruel man, just protective. After all, he did have the power of safety in his blood. Could you blame the guy for being a little overly cautious?He picked up his shotgun and examined it, making sure it was loaded. As if someone could have stolen the shells without him knowing. William and I watched with curiosity as we inhaled our meal, every cold, delicious bite. “Anything else you need?” he asked as we finished, plates nearly licked clean. “We have to talk about what’s going to happen here.”“I could use a shower,” I answered honestly. I wanted time to think. I wasn’t ready for more.“Sure,” he said, placing his gun to the right of the door. “You guys will have the room, so I put your clothes in the dresser in there. Towels are under the sink.”“Okay thanks,” I answered, wondering how my clothes had ended up here in the first place. The solitude was nice, so I didn’t bother to be quick. I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror and smiled at how unkempt I looked. Tired, chestnut eyes stared back at me. My dark brown hair was greasy and tangled, and my clothes were dirty from trekking through the woods. I looked like a ragdoll that had been dragged around the playground by a five-year-old.I gazed back into my reflection, trying to convince myself that everything was all right, that I had no reason to worry. But was it true? I stripped down and stepped in the shower, letting the steaming water wash away layers of salt and sweat as I ran through the facts, every stepping stone in the path that had led me here.It wasn’t that long ago that I’d considered myself alone. The only one cursed with long life while those around me died. Then, only two others shared my secret, my burden—Anna and her daughter. They were more than friends; they were family, despite the fact that they weren’t Descendants. Things were so different now, like that reality was a lifetime ago. I’d dreamt that there were others, hoped it in the deepest parts of me, but I never imagined it would be so complicated. The world of Descendants, my people, with their supernatural abilities and secret lives, The Council, the laws, the prophecy, none of it had turned out how I’d hoped. Things were backwards, uncivil, and unfair in this new world. I shouldn’t have had to risk my life to heal my best friend, but it had come to that. If it weren’t for Kara, who’d once considered me an enemy, maybe I would be dead. I shook that thought from my head. It didn’t matter.All that mattered was that Anna and Chloe would be okay. Their safety was at the forefront of my mind. Kara had taken care of them, and they’d be here soon. Thanks to William, Ryder was gone. I could let go of that worry, but there were still things unsettled. There was Iosif. The memory of his scream made my stomach turn, and I hoped he would be all right. Obviously The Council believed we were dead, so what more could they use him for? And what had come of William’s family? Were they questioned? Tortured? Did the Council members get involved? I would have to ask Mac if he knew anything.As for the prophecy, apparently everything had gone as predicted, despite the fact that I was kept in the dark about the true way it would play out. What was it Iosif had said? You survived because you were meant to—to fulfill the prophecy. Your sacrifice set things in motion. Now it’s only a matter of time. But what did that mean, that I was supposed to start a war against The Council? Free the Descendants from their oppressive reign? Even as I thought the words, I didn’t believe them. How was I supposed to do that? Especially stuck here with most everyone thinking I was dead.Only one thing comforted me as I mulled over everything: There was nothing I could do about any of it. Not right now at least. If I thought of it any other way, it all might come toppling in on me like an imploding building. Today, all I could do was talk to Mac. He was the only resource I had. I just hoped he knew what was supposed to happen next, and that I would be up for it.I changed into my favorite old Levis and a long sleeve black shirt. When I opened the bedroom door, I caught them sitting at the table, talking with their heads close together like I wasn’t supposed to hear their conversation. It seemed odd, but Mac addressed me like it was nothing.“Better?” he asked, his strong brown eyes too cheery for his rough face.“Much,” I responded casually, but I knew better than to believe they weren’t keeping something from me.“Did you see this?” William asked, trying to steer the subject. He held out a hand-carved blow dart gun, the one Mac had used to poison the deer. “Yeah, I’ve seen it.” “Up close?” he continued. “Mac made it himself.” He thrust it toward me, and I took it.It was handcrafted, with intricate designs and beveled edges despite its long, narrow shape. The finger grip was made of dried reeds woven into a tightly knit pattern, and it had a sight for aiming that was so thin and precise it must have taken ages to carve. Although it was an amazing work of art, I cringed as I held it. It was lethal. A weapon, meant to kill.“It’s beautiful,” I said, trying to be polite.“Glad you like it,” Mac answered with a wide grin. “I made it for you.”I was confused.“Why?” I reacted without thinking. Nearly ninety years of avoiding interaction with strangers didn’t exactly make me the best in social situations. I should have just said thank you, but he didn’t seem to take my question personally. Instead he considered it carefully, glancing at William in between thoughts.“It will protect you,” William spoke for him. He had that desperate look he always got when he wanted me to see things his way, a mix between pleading and insistence.“We’re in a safe haven,” I reminded him, handing back the weapon. “I don’t think I’ll need it.”“You will,” Mac added, staring hard at me. “I’ll start training you tomorrow.”My eyes moved back and forth between them, trying to pick up on what it was they were getting at. I didn’t like where things were going, and I wasn’t sure why they were pushing it on me. Without responding, I headed back for the bedroom.“Wait.” William sighed. “There’s someone outside for you.” If it had been anybody else, I may not have picked up on it, but I could read him so easily now, the crease in his brow, the pulse of his cheek muscle as he clenched his teeth—something had happened.“Who is it?” I asked, trying to get more out of them before I faced what was out there, but they both remained tight lipped, unable to answer.I listened for a hint of sound, but everything was so quiet here, eerily quiet. I eyed the dart gun and tucked my wet hair behind my ears. Without much of a choice, I walked almost unwillingly toward the front door, looking back at William for strength.It was still light outside, brighter than I’d expected. Judging by how exhausted I felt, I thought it should be night. I had lost all sense of time. The thick trees blew lightly in the breeze, rattling their dry leaves like nature’s wind chime as I stepped out into the forest. “Elyse,” a voice called from behind me, and I spun around with a gasp. “Oracle,” I mumbled with surprise.She laughed, the corners of her soft eyes wrinkling as she smiled. It made me uneasy the way she looked at me, like she had known me my whole life.“It’s Florence, actually.”Her loose linen clothing matched the color of the surrounding trees, like she was a part of the forest, and her hair tied up into an elegant bun had slipped slightly, letting pieces fall against her face. She looked too normal to have such brilliant power.“Hello,” I managed, my timid voice wary as I waited to hear the reason for her visit.“Will you walk with me?”I nodded and began picking my cuticles as I took up beside her, mimicking her slow, graceful steps.“You’ve had to give up a lot,” she began, her voice low and calm. “I understand how hard it’s been for you.”She looked over at me as we walked, but I couldn’t look back. I was afraid to meet her eyes. Though they were kind, they’d seen things I knew I wasn’t ready to face.“It’s not going to get easier, Elyse,” she said, her tone dipping with remorse. “The road ahead will be difficult. Not everyone will survive.”My eyes reacted on their own, searching for any uncertainty in her expression. There was none. “I’m here to tell you that you have a choice. You can always decide to take a different path.” She clasped her hands behind her back. “But you won’t. You are good. Selfless. That’s why you are who you are. You will lead them. Not because you have no other choice, but because it is right.”I wondered how she could be so sure. If she asked me right now if I knew what to do, if I knew what was right, I wouldn’t have an answer. She had such confidence in me, everyone did, but they were wrong.“Elyse,” she said, stopping abruptly. “The war has started, and they have made the first move.”Her face was so intense it scared me, her motherly eyes afraid to give me bad news.“They found Anna and Chloe—” she began.I stepped away from her. “No,” I said, not wanting to hear the rest. “Elyse,” she continued. “Kara tried her best, but Christoph took them.”The words felt heavy, like gravity pulling me down. “Are they dead?” As I asked the question, my voice shook, and everything started to break into pieces. I couldn’t look at her. I couldn’t breathe. “No,” she answered, her hand settling on my shoulder, “not yet, but they will be if you don’t go after them.” “How?” I asked, my heart desperate. “How am I supposed to do that?” The fear shook me from the inside, making me frantic and reckless. “If you just tell me how, tell me what to do, I’ll do it. I’ll go now if I need to, if you tell me where they are—”“Listen,” she said louder than I expected. It grabbed my attention. “This is what they want. They don’t believe you’re dead, and they’re trying to lure you out of hiding. They’re waiting for you, and they want you to come panicked and unprepared. Elyse?” She waited for me to look up. “You must not go until the last night of February.”“Three months? That’s so long.” I shook my head. “It’s too long. I can’t.”“If you go before then, you will fail, and they will die. Do you understand?”I nodded and bit my bottom lip. “But where do I go? How am I supposed to save them? I can’t do it on my own.”“You can.”My shaking hands clenched into tight, steady fists. “I need more than that. Give me something to go on,” I pleaded on the verge of anger.“I can only say so much without altering the future, Elyse.” She leaned forward to kiss my cheek, but I hardly noticed. “I must go before I say more. I won’t see you again after this. Good luck,” she said, before turning to leave. I watched her walk away, too stunned to move.“Wait,” I called after her. “Where are they?”“Where you’ll expect them to be,” she yelled without looking back.“Where is that?” I shouted.When she didn’t respond I took off after her, running as fast as I could, but I was too late. She disappeared beyond the boundaries of the safe haven, through an invisible wall I knew I wouldn’t be allowed to cross.I leaned back against a nearby tree, too devastated and angry to move on. It all seemed clear to me as I stood alone in the forest. There was only one path ahead of me. I could choose to walk away, but I wouldn’t. She was right. They were all right. Maybe this would be my war.
~PROLOGUE~
Mac led us to a cabin in the thickest part of the woods. It wasn’t old, but it had been lived in, and I wondered how many other visitors had taken refuge there. The kitchen stovetop was stained from overuse, and the futon that sat against the wall sagged in the center where people had slept. As I looked around I breathed in the earthy scent of the forest that had seeped in from outdoors. Aside from the common area, which was both the kitchen and living room in one, there was only a bathroom and a single bedroom. “Sorry if I gave you two a scare back there,” Mac said, collapsing heavily into a seat at the multi-purpose table in the center of the room. “Can never be too sure these days.” He leaned back in the wooden chair, his brawny body testing its strength. I raised my eyebrows at his casual brush-off. Oh, sorry for shoving my loaded shotgun in your face.Maybe it was smart though. Having me heal proved I was who I was—the last healer. Still, poisoning a deer was a little dramatic.“Well, someone could have at least warned us you’d be armed and dangerous,” William said, his voice cutting through the quiet cabin. He took my hand and led me to the futon.“It’s best you just assume that from here on out,” Mac laughed back at him. I didn’t find it as funny. It wasn’t that he frightened me, or that I felt too uncomfortable in this strange place, I just had too many thoughts in my head to process those insignificant feelings. I still hadn’t gotten my bearings. So much had happened in the last twenty-four hours or more. I wasn’t sure how long it had been. “You guys must be hungry,” Mac said, breaking the silence.Starving, I thought. When had I last eaten? My body had moved past hunger pains and was simply ignoring my need for food, at least until it was mentioned. “I think my stomach is eating itself.” William cracked a smile for the first time since the gun incident.Mac stood up, his heavy weight dragging the chair loudly across the old wood floor. He was built like he was made for the military, like he could pick a guy up by his throat or bust a door down with a swift kick. It was strange seeing such a burly man in a dainty kitchen, but he seemed to feel well enough at home. He pulled two plates from the fridge, which he had already prepared for us.“I’m not the best cook, but it should do the job.”I didn’t care if it was mashed celery. I would have eaten anything.“The zucchinis grow out back, and the meat is quail,” he said tentatively, his guttural voice not matching his kind words. “Sorry it’s cold. I could heat the beans up on the stove if you want.”I moved a little too quickly to the table. “It’s fine, thanks,” I said with gratitude. I could see he wasn’t a cruel man, just protective. After all, he did have the power of safety in his blood. Could you blame the guy for being a little overly cautious?He picked up his shotgun and examined it, making sure it was loaded. As if someone could have stolen the shells without him knowing. William and I watched with curiosity as we inhaled our meal, every cold, delicious bite. “Anything else you need?” he asked as we finished, plates nearly licked clean. “We have to talk about what’s going to happen here.”“I could use a shower,” I answered honestly. I wanted time to think. I wasn’t ready for more.“Sure,” he said, placing his gun to the right of the door. “You guys will have the room, so I put your clothes in the dresser in there. Towels are under the sink.”“Okay thanks,” I answered, wondering how my clothes had ended up here in the first place. The solitude was nice, so I didn’t bother to be quick. I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror and smiled at how unkempt I looked. Tired, chestnut eyes stared back at me. My dark brown hair was greasy and tangled, and my clothes were dirty from trekking through the woods. I looked like a ragdoll that had been dragged around the playground by a five-year-old.I gazed back into my reflection, trying to convince myself that everything was all right, that I had no reason to worry. But was it true? I stripped down and stepped in the shower, letting the steaming water wash away layers of salt and sweat as I ran through the facts, every stepping stone in the path that had led me here.It wasn’t that long ago that I’d considered myself alone. The only one cursed with long life while those around me died. Then, only two others shared my secret, my burden—Anna and her daughter. They were more than friends; they were family, despite the fact that they weren’t Descendants. Things were so different now, like that reality was a lifetime ago. I’d dreamt that there were others, hoped it in the deepest parts of me, but I never imagined it would be so complicated. The world of Descendants, my people, with their supernatural abilities and secret lives, The Council, the laws, the prophecy, none of it had turned out how I’d hoped. Things were backwards, uncivil, and unfair in this new world. I shouldn’t have had to risk my life to heal my best friend, but it had come to that. If it weren’t for Kara, who’d once considered me an enemy, maybe I would be dead. I shook that thought from my head. It didn’t matter.All that mattered was that Anna and Chloe would be okay. Their safety was at the forefront of my mind. Kara had taken care of them, and they’d be here soon. Thanks to William, Ryder was gone. I could let go of that worry, but there were still things unsettled. There was Iosif. The memory of his scream made my stomach turn, and I hoped he would be all right. Obviously The Council believed we were dead, so what more could they use him for? And what had come of William’s family? Were they questioned? Tortured? Did the Council members get involved? I would have to ask Mac if he knew anything.As for the prophecy, apparently everything had gone as predicted, despite the fact that I was kept in the dark about the true way it would play out. What was it Iosif had said? You survived because you were meant to—to fulfill the prophecy. Your sacrifice set things in motion. Now it’s only a matter of time. But what did that mean, that I was supposed to start a war against The Council? Free the Descendants from their oppressive reign? Even as I thought the words, I didn’t believe them. How was I supposed to do that? Especially stuck here with most everyone thinking I was dead.Only one thing comforted me as I mulled over everything: There was nothing I could do about any of it. Not right now at least. If I thought of it any other way, it all might come toppling in on me like an imploding building. Today, all I could do was talk to Mac. He was the only resource I had. I just hoped he knew what was supposed to happen next, and that I would be up for it.I changed into my favorite old Levis and a long sleeve black shirt. When I opened the bedroom door, I caught them sitting at the table, talking with their heads close together like I wasn’t supposed to hear their conversation. It seemed odd, but Mac addressed me like it was nothing.“Better?” he asked, his strong brown eyes too cheery for his rough face.“Much,” I responded casually, but I knew better than to believe they weren’t keeping something from me.“Did you see this?” William asked, trying to steer the subject. He held out a hand-carved blow dart gun, the one Mac had used to poison the deer. “Yeah, I’ve seen it.” “Up close?” he continued. “Mac made it himself.” He thrust it toward me, and I took it.It was handcrafted, with intricate designs and beveled edges despite its long, narrow shape. The finger grip was made of dried reeds woven into a tightly knit pattern, and it had a sight for aiming that was so thin and precise it must have taken ages to carve. Although it was an amazing work of art, I cringed as I held it. It was lethal. A weapon, meant to kill.“It’s beautiful,” I said, trying to be polite.“Glad you like it,” Mac answered with a wide grin. “I made it for you.”I was confused.“Why?” I reacted without thinking. Nearly ninety years of avoiding interaction with strangers didn’t exactly make me the best in social situations. I should have just said thank you, but he didn’t seem to take my question personally. Instead he considered it carefully, glancing at William in between thoughts.“It will protect you,” William spoke for him. He had that desperate look he always got when he wanted me to see things his way, a mix between pleading and insistence.“We’re in a safe haven,” I reminded him, handing back the weapon. “I don’t think I’ll need it.”“You will,” Mac added, staring hard at me. “I’ll start training you tomorrow.”My eyes moved back and forth between them, trying to pick up on what it was they were getting at. I didn’t like where things were going, and I wasn’t sure why they were pushing it on me. Without responding, I headed back for the bedroom.“Wait.” William sighed. “There’s someone outside for you.” If it had been anybody else, I may not have picked up on it, but I could read him so easily now, the crease in his brow, the pulse of his cheek muscle as he clenched his teeth—something had happened.“Who is it?” I asked, trying to get more out of them before I faced what was out there, but they both remained tight lipped, unable to answer.I listened for a hint of sound, but everything was so quiet here, eerily quiet. I eyed the dart gun and tucked my wet hair behind my ears. Without much of a choice, I walked almost unwillingly toward the front door, looking back at William for strength.It was still light outside, brighter than I’d expected. Judging by how exhausted I felt, I thought it should be night. I had lost all sense of time. The thick trees blew lightly in the breeze, rattling their dry leaves like nature’s wind chime as I stepped out into the forest. “Elyse,” a voice called from behind me, and I spun around with a gasp. “Oracle,” I mumbled with surprise.She laughed, the corners of her soft eyes wrinkling as she smiled. It made me uneasy the way she looked at me, like she had known me my whole life.“It’s Florence, actually.”Her loose linen clothing matched the color of the surrounding trees, like she was a part of the forest, and her hair tied up into an elegant bun had slipped slightly, letting pieces fall against her face. She looked too normal to have such brilliant power.“Hello,” I managed, my timid voice wary as I waited to hear the reason for her visit.“Will you walk with me?”I nodded and began picking my cuticles as I took up beside her, mimicking her slow, graceful steps.“You’ve had to give up a lot,” she began, her voice low and calm. “I understand how hard it’s been for you.”She looked over at me as we walked, but I couldn’t look back. I was afraid to meet her eyes. Though they were kind, they’d seen things I knew I wasn’t ready to face.“It’s not going to get easier, Elyse,” she said, her tone dipping with remorse. “The road ahead will be difficult. Not everyone will survive.”My eyes reacted on their own, searching for any uncertainty in her expression. There was none. “I’m here to tell you that you have a choice. You can always decide to take a different path.” She clasped her hands behind her back. “But you won’t. You are good. Selfless. That’s why you are who you are. You will lead them. Not because you have no other choice, but because it is right.”I wondered how she could be so sure. If she asked me right now if I knew what to do, if I knew what was right, I wouldn’t have an answer. She had such confidence in me, everyone did, but they were wrong.“Elyse,” she said, stopping abruptly. “The war has started, and they have made the first move.”Her face was so intense it scared me, her motherly eyes afraid to give me bad news.“They found Anna and Chloe—” she began.I stepped away from her. “No,” I said, not wanting to hear the rest. “Elyse,” she continued. “Kara tried her best, but Christoph took them.”The words felt heavy, like gravity pulling me down. “Are they dead?” As I asked the question, my voice shook, and everything started to break into pieces. I couldn’t look at her. I couldn’t breathe. “No,” she answered, her hand settling on my shoulder, “not yet, but they will be if you don’t go after them.” “How?” I asked, my heart desperate. “How am I supposed to do that?” The fear shook me from the inside, making me frantic and reckless. “If you just tell me how, tell me what to do, I’ll do it. I’ll go now if I need to, if you tell me where they are—”“Listen,” she said louder than I expected. It grabbed my attention. “This is what they want. They don’t believe you’re dead, and they’re trying to lure you out of hiding. They’re waiting for you, and they want you to come panicked and unprepared. Elyse?” She waited for me to look up. “You must not go until the last night of February.”“Three months? That’s so long.” I shook my head. “It’s too long. I can’t.”“If you go before then, you will fail, and they will die. Do you understand?”I nodded and bit my bottom lip. “But where do I go? How am I supposed to save them? I can’t do it on my own.”“You can.”My shaking hands clenched into tight, steady fists. “I need more than that. Give me something to go on,” I pleaded on the verge of anger.“I can only say so much without altering the future, Elyse.” She leaned forward to kiss my cheek, but I hardly noticed. “I must go before I say more. I won’t see you again after this. Good luck,” she said, before turning to leave. I watched her walk away, too stunned to move.“Wait,” I called after her. “Where are they?”“Where you’ll expect them to be,” she yelled without looking back.“Where is that?” I shouted.When she didn’t respond I took off after her, running as fast as I could, but I was too late. She disappeared beyond the boundaries of the safe haven, through an invisible wall I knew I wouldn’t be allowed to cross.I leaned back against a nearby tree, too devastated and angry to move on. It all seemed clear to me as I stood alone in the forest. There was only one path ahead of me. I could choose to walk away, but I wouldn’t. She was right. They were all right. Maybe this would be my war.January 27, 2013
Uprising Cover Spread & Baby Cuteness
Wow. After almost 2 weeks of living in baby world I'm finally coming up for air. Can you believe it?! I'm actually sitting down to blog...Sorry I haven't been the best at responding to comments or visiting blogs. I'm a busy mama these days. I'm sure I'll be getting in the groove here soon. For now, thanks for stopping by and wishing me luck with my little guy.
Baby Matthew is doing well. He's already a stud. Here he is showing off his buff baby bod. I think his bicep is bigger than mine ;)
In writing world, things are moving forward with Uprising (Children of the Gods #2). ZOVA Books has printed copies that they claim are awesome. They like to tease me like that. I still haven't gotten my hands on one, BUT they did send me the full cover spread to share with you all. Here it is! Thanks ZOVA! I LOVE it.
Elyse has done everything she can to protect her friends from The Council's reach. As long as they believe she's dead, she has time to rest and train for war. And war is inevitable.
When Kara arrives with the news that Anna and Chloe have been captured, Elyse is faced with the realization that no one is safe until The Council is stopped and Christoph is destroyed. She doesn't need a prophecy to tell her to lead an army. Christoph has done the one thing that ensures she'll fight to the death. He's threatened the people she loves.
It will take more than the words of an oracle to help them fight against the most powerful Descendant alive. To break The Council's oppression and rise up against a plot so many years in the making, Elyse will need to get dangerously close to her enemy. So close, in fact, she may not survive.
Baby Matthew is doing well. He's already a stud. Here he is showing off his buff baby bod. I think his bicep is bigger than mine ;)
In writing world, things are moving forward with Uprising (Children of the Gods #2). ZOVA Books has printed copies that they claim are awesome. They like to tease me like that. I still haven't gotten my hands on one, BUT they did send me the full cover spread to share with you all. Here it is! Thanks ZOVA! I LOVE it.
Elyse has done everything she can to protect her friends from The Council's reach. As long as they believe she's dead, she has time to rest and train for war. And war is inevitable.
When Kara arrives with the news that Anna and Chloe have been captured, Elyse is faced with the realization that no one is safe until The Council is stopped and Christoph is destroyed. She doesn't need a prophecy to tell her to lead an army. Christoph has done the one thing that ensures she'll fight to the death. He's threatened the people she loves.
It will take more than the words of an oracle to help them fight against the most powerful Descendant alive. To break The Council's oppression and rise up against a plot so many years in the making, Elyse will need to get dangerously close to her enemy. So close, in fact, she may not survive.
January 19, 2013
I'm A Mama :)
So I had a baby four days ago...he's the cutest. Obviously blogging and all things not baby have taken a backseat. To all of you waiting for your review copy of Oppression or your ARC of Uprising, bear with me. It's going to take me a while to get back in the groove, but I haven't forgotten you :)
To all those curious about my new little man... here he is.
MatthewJ. Therrien (8lbs. 4oz. 22in - perfect)
To all those curious about my new little man... here he is.
MatthewJ. Therrien (8lbs. 4oz. 22in - perfect)
December 28, 2012
UPRISING (Children of the Gods #2) News!
Hello out there! Sorry it's been a while. First (for those of you on baby watch) our little guy is still a bun in the oven. 14 days left...yikes. Second (for those of you on book watch) I have some good news and bad news about the upcoming release of UPRISING (Children of the Gods #2).
The bad news...
Okay, don't hate me (because I realize this is so very NOT cool) but I've talked to my publisher and we've decided to postpone the release of UPRISING until May 28th. I'll be having my first baby in mid January and realized that a February release is just too close to the start of baby madness. I have no idea what life will be like with a 4-week-old, but something tells me that I won't be all there in February. SORRY people!!
The good news...
Because I feel really really bad about postponing the release, I'm hoping to make it up to you! On February 19th (the original release date) I'll make sure to post the first chapter right here on my blog. Also, I'll be doing a giveaway or something like that along with it :)
Some other good news...
Although the official release date won't be until May 28th, my publisher will be distributing a limited amount of ARCs to bloggers. I can't guarantee that you'll get an ARC, but if you sign up below and make a good case, I can hopefully get you on their list.
For those of you who'd rather READ IT RIGHT NOW, I've been given the go-ahead to send out the initial PDF version of the E-ARC to a limited number of people who have hosted me on their blogs or reviewed the first book, bloggers who have significant followings, and/or who are willing to spread the word. If you'd like the PDF version of the E-ARC, feel free to sign up below (again, I can't guarantee everyone will be approved to receive the E-ARC. I'm only allowed to give out 20-30).
Please Note: The PDF E-ARC version is not the final version and nothing is to be quoted from the PDF without reference to the final edition. - per ZOVA Books
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The bad news...Okay, don't hate me (because I realize this is so very NOT cool) but I've talked to my publisher and we've decided to postpone the release of UPRISING until May 28th. I'll be having my first baby in mid January and realized that a February release is just too close to the start of baby madness. I have no idea what life will be like with a 4-week-old, but something tells me that I won't be all there in February. SORRY people!!
The good news...
Because I feel really really bad about postponing the release, I'm hoping to make it up to you! On February 19th (the original release date) I'll make sure to post the first chapter right here on my blog. Also, I'll be doing a giveaway or something like that along with it :)
Some other good news...
Although the official release date won't be until May 28th, my publisher will be distributing a limited amount of ARCs to bloggers. I can't guarantee that you'll get an ARC, but if you sign up below and make a good case, I can hopefully get you on their list.
For those of you who'd rather READ IT RIGHT NOW, I've been given the go-ahead to send out the initial PDF version of the E-ARC to a limited number of people who have hosted me on their blogs or reviewed the first book, bloggers who have significant followings, and/or who are willing to spread the word. If you'd like the PDF version of the E-ARC, feel free to sign up below (again, I can't guarantee everyone will be approved to receive the E-ARC. I'm only allowed to give out 20-30).
Please Note: The PDF E-ARC version is not the final version and nothing is to be quoted from the PDF without reference to the final edition. - per ZOVA Books
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December 26, 2012
The Buzz: Review of STRENGTH by Carrie Butler
I'm a picky picky reader. If you know me, you know that. So, when I tell you a book is good...It's GOOD. Strength is one of those you-can't-put-down books. I posted a semi-review when I was halfway through. I couldn't wait to talk about its awesomeness, because I was literally carrying the book around with me everywhere. To my delight, it just kept getting better and better.
I'm going to skip the part where I summarize what the book is about in this review (I'm posting the blurb below). Instead, I want to tell you why I loved the book so much--the characters.
First, Rena. Is. Awesome. I can't think of another YA/New adult book that has such a funny yet bad-ass main character. Seriously, when is a female lead character ever funny? I mean, laugh out loud when you're reading alone in your bed kind of funny. She's one of a kind. Carrie Butler has an amazingly unique voice as a writer that reads so naturally you forget your reading. She sucks you in, and the next thing you know you're drooling over the sexy main man--Wallace. Another reason I liked the book *wink wink* Because this book is New Adult, you get a little more of the sexiness than in YA books. *Teehee*
Of course, one of my favorite characters was Wallace's dark and cocky twin brother, Cole. Why are we girls always such suckers for the bad-boy? I really wanted to hate him...but he's so dang snarky. Is it bad of me that I'm kind of hoping for a love-triangle in the next installment? The two brothers reminded me a lot of Stephan and Damon in The Vampire Diaries, and who doesn't love them? Both hot. One naughty, one nice...just saying.
Okay, okay. Enough gushing over the hotties. What also sets this book apart is its paranormal storyline. Butler doesn't try and put a new spin on Vampires or Werewolves. She invents her own world of secrets and superpowers. It's refreshing to read something with a new and creative plot in the Paranormal Romance genre. Thankfully the plot is only going to thicken. The conflict is just beginning to brew by the end of the book, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.
Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation--and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…
Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.
They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do--even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.
I'm going to skip the part where I summarize what the book is about in this review (I'm posting the blurb below). Instead, I want to tell you why I loved the book so much--the characters.
First, Rena. Is. Awesome. I can't think of another YA/New adult book that has such a funny yet bad-ass main character. Seriously, when is a female lead character ever funny? I mean, laugh out loud when you're reading alone in your bed kind of funny. She's one of a kind. Carrie Butler has an amazingly unique voice as a writer that reads so naturally you forget your reading. She sucks you in, and the next thing you know you're drooling over the sexy main man--Wallace. Another reason I liked the book *wink wink* Because this book is New Adult, you get a little more of the sexiness than in YA books. *Teehee*
Of course, one of my favorite characters was Wallace's dark and cocky twin brother, Cole. Why are we girls always such suckers for the bad-boy? I really wanted to hate him...but he's so dang snarky. Is it bad of me that I'm kind of hoping for a love-triangle in the next installment? The two brothers reminded me a lot of Stephan and Damon in The Vampire Diaries, and who doesn't love them? Both hot. One naughty, one nice...just saying.
Okay, okay. Enough gushing over the hotties. What also sets this book apart is its paranormal storyline. Butler doesn't try and put a new spin on Vampires or Werewolves. She invents her own world of secrets and superpowers. It's refreshing to read something with a new and creative plot in the Paranormal Romance genre. Thankfully the plot is only going to thicken. The conflict is just beginning to brew by the end of the book, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation--and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…
Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.
They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do--even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.
December 19, 2012
Giveaway Update
Hi everyone! I'm still pregnant...in case you were wondering ;) Like you, I'm anxiously awaiting Christmas, only I'm hoping for a special kind of present--THIS BABY! I'm ready to pop.
For those of you wondering about my giveaway exchange for an honest review, I've already sent out the first group of books. The next set will go out in January or February. However, if you're anxious to get your hands on a copy now, Ana and Neyra from Beach Bum Reads & Darkest Addictions had me over for a really fun interview and they're hosting a giveaway along with it. Here is a little taste of the interview:
*At Cearno's Cafe in San Francisco waiting for Jessica Therrien to arrive*
Neyra: *leans towards Ana* Oh.My.Gosh Ana, look at him, isn't he gorgeous! With his beautiful green eyes.. *sighs*
Ana: *Takes a sip of my iced tea and looks towards the man Neyra is ogling* wheeew *fans self*gorgeous indeed!
Neyra: *sigh* His name's William *spots Jessica walking into the cafe, smiles and waves her over*
Ana: *looks at William one last time then turns and stands to give Jessica a hug* thanks for joining us
Neyra: *Hugs* Hi Jessica! Thank you for meeting with us today! Please, have a seat. Would you like some coffee? :]
Jessica: *Hugs* Hey guys! I'm dying to have coffee. *Pats massively pregnant belly* No caffeine for me, though. I miss it so much. Writers need coffee!!
Neyra: Awe! Baby bump, too cute! ^-^ How far along are you? And yes, I'll bet with all those long hours overworking your brains and most likely very little sleep!
Ana: Aww. Well you look gorgeous! Glowing & everything :) *calls the waitress over & asks for a pitcher of water*
Jessica: Thanks! I'm six and a half months. We're having a boy, and he's due in early January. I used to joke that I was a stay-at-home author for my book babies. Now I'll be a stay-at-home author AND a stay-at-home mommy. I'll keep having my book babies of course, but now I'll have a real baby too. It should be interesting.
Neyra: Eeep! that's too many babies! >.< LOL I bet you're excited though. Little boys are so fun, but once they get to the crawling and walking stages *whistles* Good Luck! :D
Ana: you can always punish him later by writing him into one of your books. Though, that'd probably be awesome. Have you guys thought of a name? Is your thought process the same as when you're thinking of names for your book characters?
Jessica: *Haha* It's okay. My book babies don't cry or crawl, so they're a little easier. We have picked out a name, but I'm keeping it super secret in case we change our minds. It was really hard to pick one that both my husband and I agreed on. Character names are much easier. My husband doesn't get a say. *sips glass of water*
Ana: ooh secrets! looking forward to finding out what you both name him. *grabs a menu* While we're here, go ahead and order something...ANYTHING! Our treat :)
Neyra: *eyes the cashier, and mutters to self* He's just so Hot.. *turns to face Jessica* Oh, yes that's understandable, we look forward to finding out your little bundle's name in the future ^-^ & Speaking of Names & book characters, I'm sure you can guess why we picked this city and this particular cafe to have the interview *smiles mischievously*
Jessica: Oh that's sweet of you. I'll get the fruit bowl and a blueberry muffin, one of Elyse's favorites. Yeah, a lot of people are surprised that this place actually exists. A friend of mine used to live upstairs in Elyse's apartment, so I spent many summers in this cafe. Of course, it was called Just Bean Thereback then. (Address: 201 Steiner Street, San Francisco, CA Link to Cafe Location) It's a little more mysterious these days, being owned by a Descendant and all...
Ana: It must have been fun growing up here.*smiles* ..Excuse me *stands up* do continue without me *heads to the little girls room*
Neyra: *leans forward to get a fruit* Thank you, and yes, I am definitely surprised, but at least now I have an actual picture in my mind as to how this place looks. (I was imagining it to be a little darker with wooden countertops and all).
Speaking of Descendants, for those readers who've yet to read your book.. Oppression is the story of a young girl (Can we call her young? I mean she is old. lol), named Elyse. She's keeping secrets, and has always had to live in hiding. For one, she ages five times slower than any average person; and, two, she has the ability to heal with her blood, though she doesn't understand why. Alone for 39 years after the death of her parents, only her best friend, Anna, knows of Elyse's strange ability and age difference, or so she believes. Soon she finds herself thrust into a world she never knew existed, with others just like her, descended of the people the Greeks considered Gods. There is a prophecy, and Elyse finds herself in the middle of it all. But can she play by their rules when she's forced to choose between the life she knew and the life she's been thrust into?
I love Greek mythology based books, but they're always about the usual Gods; Hades, Zeus, Aphrodite. Your book talks about, their children's children. How did the idea for Oppression come about?
Jessica: Well, when I studied Greek mythology in high school, I remember learning that some of the places, like the city of Troy for example, are thought to actually exist. I thought, if the places actually exist, wouldn't it be crazy if the gods did too, only there was a logical explanation for it all? That got me thinking, if people with abilities and long lives were discovered in ancient Greece, they would no doubt be mistaken as gods and treated as such. I used that concept to explain modern day mythology and to develop my story about the Descendants in today's world. Most books based on Greek mythology tend to stick to those traditional ideas and gods, whereas I was more focused on the premise that the Greek gods were never really gods at all. This gave me a lot more flexibility and allowed me to be creative with which gods to use as Descendant bloodlines. I'm still really having a lot of fun with it.
Ana: *walking back to the table and hears the ending of Jessica's explanation* Well, I think its a great idea and I'm sure a lot of people enjoyed your book. *takes a sip of water* Now, I'm a big paranormal fan, but when I read the synopsis for your book, Greek mythology stood out. I was excited. I love Greek mythology, reading your book definitely upped my visit to the theaters to watch Immortals. Including Henry Cavils sezzy self on the big screen ;)
Neyra: *Looks up* Welcome back hon, and yes I agree the concept of Greek Mythology always stands, but as I said before there's always more focus on the Gods we're all familiar with. *takes a sip of coffee* I'm sure, Jessica that there was a lot of research done despite you already having studied Greek Mythology in high school? Were there any new surprises you weren't familiar with that were woven into Oppression?
Here's the link to the rest of the interview and the giveaway! Thank you so much Ana & Neyra! I had so much fun talking with you :)
For those of you wondering about my giveaway exchange for an honest review, I've already sent out the first group of books. The next set will go out in January or February. However, if you're anxious to get your hands on a copy now, Ana and Neyra from Beach Bum Reads & Darkest Addictions had me over for a really fun interview and they're hosting a giveaway along with it. Here is a little taste of the interview:
*At Cearno's Cafe in San Francisco waiting for Jessica Therrien to arrive*
Neyra: *leans towards Ana* Oh.My.Gosh Ana, look at him, isn't he gorgeous! With his beautiful green eyes.. *sighs*
Ana: *Takes a sip of my iced tea and looks towards the man Neyra is ogling* wheeew *fans self*gorgeous indeed!
Neyra: *sigh* His name's William *spots Jessica walking into the cafe, smiles and waves her over*
Ana: *looks at William one last time then turns and stands to give Jessica a hug* thanks for joining us
Neyra: *Hugs* Hi Jessica! Thank you for meeting with us today! Please, have a seat. Would you like some coffee? :]
Jessica: *Hugs* Hey guys! I'm dying to have coffee. *Pats massively pregnant belly* No caffeine for me, though. I miss it so much. Writers need coffee!!
Neyra: Awe! Baby bump, too cute! ^-^ How far along are you? And yes, I'll bet with all those long hours overworking your brains and most likely very little sleep!
Ana: Aww. Well you look gorgeous! Glowing & everything :) *calls the waitress over & asks for a pitcher of water*
Jessica: Thanks! I'm six and a half months. We're having a boy, and he's due in early January. I used to joke that I was a stay-at-home author for my book babies. Now I'll be a stay-at-home author AND a stay-at-home mommy. I'll keep having my book babies of course, but now I'll have a real baby too. It should be interesting. Neyra: Eeep! that's too many babies! >.< LOL I bet you're excited though. Little boys are so fun, but once they get to the crawling and walking stages *whistles* Good Luck! :D
Ana: you can always punish him later by writing him into one of your books. Though, that'd probably be awesome. Have you guys thought of a name? Is your thought process the same as when you're thinking of names for your book characters?
Jessica: *Haha* It's okay. My book babies don't cry or crawl, so they're a little easier. We have picked out a name, but I'm keeping it super secret in case we change our minds. It was really hard to pick one that both my husband and I agreed on. Character names are much easier. My husband doesn't get a say. *sips glass of water*
Ana: ooh secrets! looking forward to finding out what you both name him. *grabs a menu* While we're here, go ahead and order something...ANYTHING! Our treat :)
Neyra: *eyes the cashier, and mutters to self* He's just so Hot.. *turns to face Jessica* Oh, yes that's understandable, we look forward to finding out your little bundle's name in the future ^-^ & Speaking of Names & book characters, I'm sure you can guess why we picked this city and this particular cafe to have the interview *smiles mischievously*
Jessica: Oh that's sweet of you. I'll get the fruit bowl and a blueberry muffin, one of Elyse's favorites. Yeah, a lot of people are surprised that this place actually exists. A friend of mine used to live upstairs in Elyse's apartment, so I spent many summers in this cafe. Of course, it was called Just Bean Thereback then. (Address: 201 Steiner Street, San Francisco, CA Link to Cafe Location) It's a little more mysterious these days, being owned by a Descendant and all...Ana: It must have been fun growing up here.*smiles* ..Excuse me *stands up* do continue without me *heads to the little girls room*
Neyra: *leans forward to get a fruit* Thank you, and yes, I am definitely surprised, but at least now I have an actual picture in my mind as to how this place looks. (I was imagining it to be a little darker with wooden countertops and all).
Speaking of Descendants, for those readers who've yet to read your book.. Oppression is the story of a young girl (Can we call her young? I mean she is old. lol), named Elyse. She's keeping secrets, and has always had to live in hiding. For one, she ages five times slower than any average person; and, two, she has the ability to heal with her blood, though she doesn't understand why. Alone for 39 years after the death of her parents, only her best friend, Anna, knows of Elyse's strange ability and age difference, or so she believes. Soon she finds herself thrust into a world she never knew existed, with others just like her, descended of the people the Greeks considered Gods. There is a prophecy, and Elyse finds herself in the middle of it all. But can she play by their rules when she's forced to choose between the life she knew and the life she's been thrust into?
I love Greek mythology based books, but they're always about the usual Gods; Hades, Zeus, Aphrodite. Your book talks about, their children's children. How did the idea for Oppression come about?
Jessica: Well, when I studied Greek mythology in high school, I remember learning that some of the places, like the city of Troy for example, are thought to actually exist. I thought, if the places actually exist, wouldn't it be crazy if the gods did too, only there was a logical explanation for it all? That got me thinking, if people with abilities and long lives were discovered in ancient Greece, they would no doubt be mistaken as gods and treated as such. I used that concept to explain modern day mythology and to develop my story about the Descendants in today's world. Most books based on Greek mythology tend to stick to those traditional ideas and gods, whereas I was more focused on the premise that the Greek gods were never really gods at all. This gave me a lot more flexibility and allowed me to be creative with which gods to use as Descendant bloodlines. I'm still really having a lot of fun with it.
Ana: *walking back to the table and hears the ending of Jessica's explanation* Well, I think its a great idea and I'm sure a lot of people enjoyed your book. *takes a sip of water* Now, I'm a big paranormal fan, but when I read the synopsis for your book, Greek mythology stood out. I was excited. I love Greek mythology, reading your book definitely upped my visit to the theaters to watch Immortals. Including Henry Cavils sezzy self on the big screen ;)
Neyra: *Looks up* Welcome back hon, and yes I agree the concept of Greek Mythology always stands, but as I said before there's always more focus on the Gods we're all familiar with. *takes a sip of coffee* I'm sure, Jessica that there was a lot of research done despite you already having studied Greek Mythology in high school? Were there any new surprises you weren't familiar with that were woven into Oppression?
Here's the link to the rest of the interview and the giveaway! Thank you so much Ana & Neyra! I had so much fun talking with you :)
December 9, 2012
Giveaway in Exchange for Honest Review
Hey everyone! As I'm sure you've noticed, I haven't been as active online these days. I'm busy being pregnant (only a little distracting...). My husband had this idea to make up for my lack of active marketing of the series. With the release of
Uprising (Children of the Gods #2)
coming up, I wanted to build a little pre-book-2-buzz around
Oppression (Children of the Gods #1)
. SO...if you're interested, have a blog, and have not read/reviewed Oppression. Fill out the form below to receive a copy in exchange for an honest review on your blog as well as any other review sites such as Barnes & Noble or Amazon. If you don't have a blog, that's okay...just post your reviews on B&N and Amazon.I'm not sure how many people are going to sign up for this, so I can't guarantee everyone will get a copy, but I'll let you know either way. As of now, the requests can be international as long as you have a way to post a review of the book. Obviously if I get 100 international requests, I won't be able to send everyone a copy, but in that case I'll do a rafflecopter giveaway to choose those who win.
If you're interested, or know a friend who is interested, please fill out the form below :) Thanks!
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December 7, 2012
Live.Laugh.Love...Baby Brain.
Okay my friends. I'm officially leaving for baby world. My little man isn't supposed to be here for another 4 weeks, but I'm too distracted to keep up my blogging schedule. I've got major baby brain. There are a million things on my plate with Christmas and baby coming...yikes! I'm not saying I'm not going to be blogging at all, just that it might be a bit sporadic and off topic. I'm still writing (believe it or not...). The routine writing tactic is working pretty well for me. The process is a lot slower than I'm used to, but I'm getting there. Book 3 is coming along, slowly but surely :) Bear with me my blogger people...life is about to get crazy.
How I'm imagining life with baby...
Reality...
Thanks for loving me anyway blogger friends! Sorry I've been the worst at staying connected...bleh. I'll make it up to you in cute baby pics when I'm back in business :)
How I'm imagining life with baby...
Reality...
Thanks for loving me anyway blogger friends! Sorry I've been the worst at staying connected...bleh. I'll make it up to you in cute baby pics when I'm back in business :)
December 3, 2012
The Buzz: Strength by Carrie Butler
I probably should wait to post about this book until I'm actually done reading it, but I can't help myself. I'm more than halfway through it, and completely hooked. It's my new accessory. Seriously, I carry the ARC of Strength everywhere. It's one of those read through dinner kind of books, and yes, my husband is making fun of the attachment I've formed. Sadly for you, the book doesn't come out until March 7, 2013, BUT...you should definitely add it to your GoodReads TBR list. Trust me, if you're a Twilight fan (and I mean that in the best way possible, because despite the movies, I still remember devouring and loving those books...so don't judge) you'll LOVE this. Especially because technically this book falls into the New Adult genre, so it's a little more graphic in terms of the "I want to make out with you but can't" dilemma, which is nice. Okay, enough already, you're just going to have to read it for yourself...in March that is... Can't wait! When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.
Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation--and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…
Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.
They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do--even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.
Are you reading any awesome ARCs right now? What are you excited about in the YA world of reading? ...oh, did you say Uprising (Children of the Gods #2) by Jessica Therrien? Weird! Me too!! Maybe you should go add that to your GoodReads TBR list while you're at it *wink wink*
