Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 87
July 18, 2014
Book Blast: Married in the nick of time by Alretha Thomas. Plus a great Giveaway to enter.

The author is giving away a free Kindle copy of Married in the Nick of Nine
#MARRIEDINTHENICKOFNINE @wnlbooktours @alrethathomas
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Publication Date: June 30, 2014 Genre : Contemporary Romance Paperback: 304 pages Publisher: Diverse Arts Collective (May 9, 2012) ISBN-10: 0615620744 ISBN-13: 978-0615620749
About The Book

Cassandra Whitmore is facing yet another Valentine’s Day alone. Her love life is as dry as the Sharpie pen she uses to mark an even more dreadful day on her calendar—her upcoming 30th birthday. Driven by the maddening ticking of her biological clock, Cassandra is determined to meet, fall in love with, and marry “The One” within nine months. When Cassandra accompanies her cousin to a night club, her Type-A quest to meet a man is quickly rewarded by a stranger’s velvety, baritone voice asking if he might occupy the seat next to her. He’s Nicolas Harte, whose good looks leave Cassandra speechless, but not for long. After mustering enough courage to strike up a conversation, she learns Nicolas is everything she wants in a man—smart, successful, and available. There’s only one catch: He’s “GU” (geographically undesirable). Nonetheless, Cassandra falls in love with Nicolas and makes the uncharacteristic decision to move from Los Angeles to New York to be with him. But Cassandra gets a rude awakening when she discovers there’s something rotten in the Big Apple.
About The Author

Shortly after graduating from USC with a degree in journalism, Alretha soon realized her interest in her major was not heartfelt. Instead of writing news stories, she wanted to write plays and books. Several years later, her church gave her an outlet to fulfill her writing desires through their Liturgical Fine Arts Department wherein Alretha penned twelve theatre pieces—the community response was overwhelming. This led to plays outside of the church, including Alretha’s “One, Woman Two Lives,” starring Kellita Smith (The Bernie Mac Show), directed by four-time NAACP Image Award Best Director recipient, Denise Dowse. The production garnered rave reviews from critics and audiences. In between plays, Alretha’s first novel, “Daughter Denied,” was launched in 2008 and in 2011, Alretha launched “Dancing Her Dreams Away.” Her third novel, “Married in the Nick of Nine,” spawned a four-book series that has been acquired by Soul Mate Publishing. “Married in the Nick of Nine,” the first book in the series was released July 2, 2014.
Social Links:Email: Alrethat@aol.com Website: http://www.Alrethathomas.com Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/alretha.thomas Twitter handle: https://twitter.com/AlrethaThomasTrai... http://youtu.be/QlwbJFRXGL8
Buy Links:Amazon ebook:
Tour Hosted by wnlbooktours.com

Author Tour Schedule: http://wnlbooktours.com/alretha-thomas/
Published on July 18, 2014 07:30
Release Blitz Tour: When you make it home by Claire Ashby. Can their love overcome all the obstacles that stand between them...

“Quirky, sexy and heartwarming – a story of love, forgiveness and what it means to be a family.”
~ Kate Moretti, New York Times bestselling author of Thought I Knew You

Meg Michaels, a bookstore owner, has already walked away from two cheating exes. She’s learned her lesson and has her mind set on success—until she gets knocked up. Embarrassed and unwilling to discuss her situation with friends and family, she wears layers to hide the pregnancy.
When Meg gets sick at a party, she’s mortified. Even worse, Theo Taylor, the guest of honor, discovers her secret. Theo, an Army medic wounded in the war, agrees not to reveal her condition, and the two forge a bond of friendship that blossoms into love.
Theo is soon filling all of Meg’s late-night cravings—and not just the pregnancy-induced ones. But can their love overcome all the obstacles that stand between them and creating a happy family?




When she’s not reading or writing, she spends her time watching extreme survival shows and taking long walks after nightfall. She has an unnatural love of high places, but still regrets the time she skydived solo. She believes some things are better left to the imagination. She resides in Austin with her family and a pack of wild dogs.


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Published on July 18, 2014 07:00
July 17, 2014
5 Star Review for Bitter Chocolate by Dawn Greenfield Ireland. Book 2 in the Alcott Family adventures.

Book Title: Bitter chocolateAuthor: Dawn Greenfield Ireland
About the book
The characters you loved in Hot Chocolate are back with more escapades of life in Houston’s wealthy River Oaks.
Lila Mae is in a tizzy over the Chocolate Ball – a huge event that she and her sisters, Dorothea and Madge, host every year. But due to unusual circumstances, Dorothea and Madge dump everything in Lila Mae’s lap. If it weren’t for Julian Gillespie of Event Is King, the Chocolate Ball would have melted.
Bernie, the Alcott sisters’ 92-year old father, decides he wants his Bentley back. The sisters and Bambi are horrified. They hire Joseph’s cousin Chewie as Bernie’s new chauffeur.
Wolfram, Lila Mae’s new astrologer, gives clues of things to come. This leaves Lila Mae and her sidekick Amelia with brows furrowed.
On her day off, Amelia decides to bake a chocolate blueberry pie. She discovers she needs to make a grocery run. When she returns home, she discovers her kitchen door is slightly ajar. Arms loaded with groceries, she toes the door open.
Three things catch her attention: a vase of flowers on the kitchen island that was not there when she left the house, her marble rolling pin covered with blood… and a dead body on her kitchen floor.
Amelia’s eyes drift toward the dining room and beyond – is the house empty, or is there a murderer in the house? She backs up, turns and hurries outside. After setting the bags on the ground, she slips back into the kitchen and snaps a picture of the dead guy. Then she calls Detective Chance Walker, Lila Mae and finally… 9-1-1.

About the Author
Dawn Greenfield Ireland is the CEO of Artistic Origins Inc, a 100% woman-owned publishing company and technical writing service that has been doing business since 1995.
She’s an IPPY award winning author of “The Puppy Baby Book,” and New England Book Festival eBook winner of “Mastering Your Money.”
Dawn is the author of the wickedly funny cozy mystery novel, “Hot Chocolate” that has rapidly gathered 5-star reviews in the Amazon Kindle store, and was toured via Premier Virtual Author Book Tours in February 2012.
“Hot Chocolate” is the first in the series, and her fifth novel. Stay tuned for “Bitter Chocolate”.
Ireland is also the co-author of the animated screenplay “Memoirs of a Dog” which won the Spirit Award of the Moondance Film Festival (children’s category) September 2011.
Her dark comedy “Plan B” was a finalist in the Table Read My Screenplay script competition in 2010. Dawn Ireland has also penned 15 other screenplays. … www.dawnireland-writer.com

I received the book from the author for an honest review.
The second book in the Alcott Family adventure, which continues three months after Hot Chocolate. The sisters were at it again, doing their thing as life once again threw them a few curve balls. Adding Bambi, Zoe, Amelia and Gina to the mix of women hormones and you are knee deep into another chocolate covered adventure. The way the sisters gathered the people around them, paying them very well I might add, always humble in their approach made this a delightful story and I enjoyed every moment. (Where can I send my CV?)
And how can I forget Louie? His antics really added some humor to the story line. The author surely must have a animal like him to pin point it so accurately.
The easy way of going through the day to day things as another murder was committed, and Chance once again sorting through all the evidence to find the killer. I just love the flow of the scenes, all adding flavor and interest to the plot. Of course I have to mention Uncle Tito, whose help was crucial during the investigation. With the Chocolate Ball just around the corner the ladies were spreading themselves thin to get everything done. Especially Bambi who had to adjust to her new life as a very rich woman. With more romances that blossomed as the saga unfolded.
Just as in book 1, the author's detailed descriptions kept the story very believable and realistic. The characters stayed within their own personas, complimenting the plot as it unfolded. Making this really a great read with everything included as you indulge in the aroma of ginger muffins and Cafe Mocha's at every turn.
I am so glad that the author included the recipes, will have to try after all the lip smacking that took place.
I look forward to Book 3 in the series.
Book LinksGoodreads / Amazon

Published on July 17, 2014 08:00
July 16, 2014
Krissy Daniels is part of the 30 Days of Summer event. Aflame can be bought at Amazon. Sure do enter the Giveaway to win some fabulous prices.

BOOK INFORMATIONTitle: Aflame Series: Apotheosis Author: Krissy Daniels Word/Page count: 73,000 Buy link: Amazon

EXCERPT
With bare hands splayed across the open wounds, Grayce squeezed her eyes closed and prayed for control. Begged. Pleaded to a God she’d never before acknowledged.Chelsea needed time to get away.Grayce prayed for Chelsea, prayed for Zander. Prayed they wouldn’t die because of her.Her wits slipped away. Raw emotion drove her actions now. Blood covered her arms. Her lips throbbed with the remnants of his kiss. A kiss that felt like goodbye. He couldn’t die. The primal need to protect him overwhelmed her senses.“Take me,” she implored. “Take me instead.”Hell’s own fire coursed through her veins. Savage. Brutal. Pissed off.She would’ve sold her soul at that moment to keep him alive. Zander didn’t deserve this. She did.Earth and grass swirled and gyrated, turned to ash around her. Her small fingers stretched across his bloodied and shredded skin. Her insides boiled. Her skin bubbled and vibrated with indignant protest.He said he loved her, now he was dying. Why? What kind of cruel, sadistic joke was this, anyway? Violent trembles overtook her as an earthquake made its way through her body from the inside out.“I will not let you die.”
AUTHOR BIOKrissy is a full time writer, reader and lover of all things romance.Growing up surrounded by the great outdoors, her life was full of adventure that fueled an overactive imagination and ignited a passion for storytelling. Whether it be dolls, or running free through the wooded areas surrounding her home, playtime always included a tormented villain, a damsel in distress and a larger than life hero.After relentless encouragement from friends and family, she finally put the characters in her head to pen and paper. The only thing she loves more than curling up with a steamy romance novel, is cozying up to her desk and writing her own sexy adventures to share with others.
FOLLOW LINKSBlog - Facebook - Twitter - Google +
GIVEAWAYTwelve (12) $5 Amazon Gift cards Six (6) Romance Paperbacks Swag & Jewellerya Rafflecopter giveawayTour Organized By:


Published on July 16, 2014 09:00
No weapon formed by Michelle Stimpson. Book 2 in the Boaz Brown Series. Released on May 20, 2014

#NOWEAPONFORMED @wnlbooktours @ StimpsonTweetsBook Title: No Weapon FormedGenre: Christian FictionSeries: Boaz BrownPaperback: 248 pagesPublisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (May 21, 2014)ISBN-10: 1499642784 ISBN-13: 978-1499642780
About The Author

Michelle Stimpson is an author, a speaker, and an educator who received her Bachelor of Science degree from Jarvis Christian College in 1994. She earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2002. She has had the pleasure of teaching elementary, middle, and high school as well as training adults. In addition to her work in the field of education, Michelle ministers through writing and public speaking. Her works include the highly acclaimed Boaz Brown, Divas of Damascus Road (National Bestseller), and Falling Into Grace. She has published several short stories for high school students through her educational publishing company, Right Track Academic Support Services, at www.wegottaread.com. Michelle serves in women’s ministry at her home church, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, in Dallas, TX. She regularly speaks at special events and writing workshops sponsored by churches, schools, book clubs and other positive organizations, and she has taught writing classes at the University of Texas at Arlington. Michelle lives near Dallas with her husband, their two teenage children, and one crazy dog.
About The Book

LaShondra and her Boaz, Stelson, are living the ideal American lifestyle, except for the subtle and not-so-subtle ways society keeps reminding them that they aren’t the norm. She’s African-American, he’s Caucasian, and their oldest child is already tackling the question of identity. It’s bad enough when outsiders show their ignorance or disdain. But when the issues come from family, LaShondra finds herself wondering if Stelson can truly comprehend the challenges looming on the horizon. When a church picnic leads to a head-on clash between LaShondra’s fears and Stelson’s optimism, the truth prevails. But that’s just the beginning. LaShondra learns that the drama during the family outing was only a set-up for an even more rigorous spiritual battle to save her family. After turning her back to the pressures at work and yielding to Stelson’s leadership, LaShondra finds herself interceding for a husband she hardly even recognizes anymore. Is this the beginning of the end for the couple that truly endeavored to honor God’s ways, or will this season fortify their marriage for His glory?
Excerpt
Hwuuuuu. Sheeeee. Hwuuuuu. Sheeee. “Stelson. Turn over on your stomach.” I shoved my husband’s shoulder, attempting to wake him. No response. Hwuuuuu. Sheeeee. Hwuuuuu. Sheeee. “Stelson. Roll over.” A little louder, a little stronger push this time. The television illuminated his glare at me, displaying the kind of anger that only a Church of God in Christ usher gives a member chewing gum in the sanctuary. “What?” I demanded, “Roll over. You’re snoring.” “No, I’m not.” “Yes, you are.” “I’m not even sleep,” he protested. “You think I woke you up so I could lie to you?”He crumpled up his face, flipped onto his stomach with a grumble and turned his head away. I didn’t care about him getting upset. He wasn’t the one who had to rise at 5:00 a.m. so he could work out, get himself dressed, and then get a 6 month old and a 4 year old up, fed, dressed and at the daycare before 7:15 a.m.—all the while hoping to make it to work by 7:45 a.m. To be fair, Stelson would have helped with the kids if I’d asked him. But why should I have to ask? Shouldn’t it be instinctive to think, “Wow, my wife is really busting her behind with the kids. Since I have a morning off, I should use it to help her.”? Apparently this is not common sense. Within seconds, my husband was at it again. Only this time it wasn’t so much the sound as the annoying vibration of the rattle in his throat and nose. How have wives slept through snoring husbands for centuries?
Social Links: Twitter handle https://twitter.com/StimpsonTweets
Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/Michelle.Stim...
Email stimpson.michelle@gmail.com
Website http://www.MichelleStimpson.com
Buy Links: Amazon ebook Barnes & Noble Amazon paperback
Tour Hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours

Published on July 16, 2014 08:30
July 15, 2014
Blog Tour: A little bit of Everything Lost by Stephanie Elliot. Enter to win your very own copy of this love story.


Synopsis:
At 19, Marnie plunged into first love with Joe, a guy who was completely wrong for her. Their romance was fast and exhilarating and like nothing Marnie had ever experienced or understood. Just as quickly as it began, it was over, with no explanation. He left her with unanswered questions and unexpected feelings of loss and regret, and a quiet grief she would carry with her for the next fifteen years.
When Joe returns, Marnie is a 34-year-old wife and mother to two rambunctious little boys, who is slowly healing from a devastating loss. All the emotions she suppressed from the past fifteen years surge to the surface, threatening to ruin her marriage and destroy her family. She'll need to confront the one person who hurt her the most to realize that love and loss sometimes go hand in hand… and that you have to live with some of your toughest choices for the rest of your life.
A Little Bit of Everything Lost is part coming-of-age/part love story. It's a story about a woman desperate to make peace with the past. It's for all women who have ever experienced the magnitude of first love, whether it was a lasting bond or a fleeting moment. Because first love - while it might not have been the best love - is a love none of us ever forgets.
PURCHASE LINKS:AMAZON ~ Kindle ** B&N ~ Paperback

EXCERPT: October 2004 The whole process irritated the hell out of Marnie.
The microwave timer buzzed, frozen pancakes warmed and ready. “You’re going to be late for the bus!” she yelled as she searched the meat drawer for ham.
“Why don’t I do this the night before?” Marnie muttered into the fridge. She found meat, made sandwiches, and moved to the pantry to grab syrup for the pancakes.
The lid was sticky.
She heard the boys arguing about who got to play Xbox first when they got home from school. They were going to be late. Again. And the lid was covered in syrup. Again.
“Damn it, boys! Get down here. Now!”
They were still arguing as they bounded down the stairs and Marnie knew Jeremy had taken his forefinger and thumb and whacked his younger brother on the head because Trey yelped, “I’m telling!”
“No tattling,” Marnie threatened. “Or there’ll be no soccer after school.”
“Good. I hate soccer practice,” Jeremy said.
“Me too,” Trey agreed with his older brother.
Marnie shook her head. There was no winning here. She was losing the battle that was good parenting, and she didn’t know how she was going to survive. High school – hell, junior high school – was still eons away.
The rumble of the bus wheels turning onto the street signaled panic in the boys’ eyes.“The bus!” Trey screamed.
“Grab a granola bar, your lunches and backpacks, and run!”
No matter what chaos each morning brought, Jeremy and Trey were endearing still, her little boys, taking the time to kiss her, and to tell her they loved her. Every morning, no matter what, they managed to love her. If only that were enough. If only.
As Trey buried his head into Marnie for a hug, she inhaled the little boy smell of him. Oh God, how she wished they didn’t have to grow up, didn’t have to become big boys. Big ones – well, big eight-year-olds like Jeremy – were already showing signs of pulling away, of needing her less and less. Of asking for fewer cuddles, and practically no more bedtime stories, wanting rather to stay up late to watch basketball with Dad when he was home. At least six-year-old Trey could still be babied. He and Marnie would snuggle at night and make up stories about worms named Pinkster and Swirmy, who lived in huts in their backyard, and ate muddy cakes filled with flies.
Marnie sighed. “I love you boys. Have a good day.” She touched her belly.
“Love you too, Mom. Bye!” And the door banged behind them. Her double tornado gone. She heard them screaming down the drive, Trey shouting for Jeremy to wait up for him, always, always chasing after his older brother.
Marnie opened the microwave and took out the mini pancakes the boys hadn’t had time to eat. She grabbed the syrup bottle again, forgetting it was sticky.
“Damn it,” she said to no one, because no one was home. It was Tuesday, and Stuart was gone.
She pulled a paper towel off the roll and noticed it had a Fourth of July stars-and-stripes pattern on it. Summer seemed like forever ago. She didn’t want to remember the summer that didn't happen. She didn’t want to think of fireworks and pool parties, barbecues and sparklers. And her boys, their tanned little bodies, their goggled faces, swimming until they were so tired they would collapse into their beds with no coaxing. She didn’t want to think about parades and fresh sugary-tart lemonade, neighborhood get-togethers, of weekend trips to her parent’s lake house, all the things they didn't get to do. She didn’t want to think about what she should be doing now.
Marnie turned the faucet on cold, saturated the paper towel, and rubbed the top of the syrup bottle as best as she could to clean it off. Then she doused the pancakes with syrup and popped the mini pancakes into her mouth, one by one, filling the void with the golden yeasty fluff, not feeling or tasting, just chewing… chewing until they were all gone; until the anxiety settled in the pit of her stomach and she felt like she could begin her day.
She ran a mental list through her head: the dry cleaners, she had to proof photos from last weekend's shoot, a trip to the grocery store. And she would have to stop by the post office to mail that package that had been sitting on the foyer table for over a week now. The one Stuart had asked her to mail.
When he got home last Thursday and spotted it still there, he had sighed. “I didn’t have time today,” she said. “Tomorrow,” she promised. “I’ll get to it tomorrow.”
“I’m home now. I can mail it tomorrow,” he had said, but he hadn’t gotten around to doing it either.
The phone rang, Marnie wiped her sticky fingers on another paper towel, and checked Caller ID. It was Collette. She hadn’t talked to Collette since last week so she settled onto a kitchen bar stool, ready for one of her usual pep talks. Marnie was desperate for one today.
“Hey you,” Marnie answered.
“Mar, hon. He’s back in town.”
Marnie felt a glob of doughy pancake she had just devoured rise to a lump in her throat.


Stephanie Elliot is the author of A Little Bit of Everything Lost, What She Left Us, and the novella, The Cell Phone Lot. She is also a writer and editor and has written for a variety of newspapers, magazines and websites. In her spare time she edits manuscripts for other writers and proofs executive documents. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three children.
AUTHOR LINKS:
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/stephanieelliotFacebook:
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieSte...Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/A-Little-Bit-Ev...Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...My website:
http://stephanieelliot.com/FB Feature Book Page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Manic-...
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Published on July 15, 2014 09:00
30 Days of Summer: Multi-author event. Great prizes can be won. Today the spotlight is on Ravenous by Annie Nicholas


EXCERPTChapter One Day seven of my cycleCold iron bit into my wrists when I rolled on my side and turned my back toward the door. The insistent knocking drilled into my aching head. I stifled a moan. If I stayed real quiet maybe they’d leave, thinking the motel room was empty. From the searing pain in my abdomen and the weakening demands of my inner demon, I only had a few hours left to live.The crack of wood splintering replaced the pounding. I jerked at the sharp noise and twisted around. Hanging on the hinges, my door had smashed open. Someone flicked the switch on and the lights burned my sensitive eyes. I tried to shield my face with my hand but the chains holding the manacles around my wrists clanked and held my arm inches from the mattress.“It’s not safe. Run.” I tried to yell but I’d grown so weak it came out more as a croak. My head flopped back against the pillow as a surge of sexual frustration flooded my system. My demon nature had quieted to a dull roar since yesterday but the scent of males had awoken the beast. It roared inside my head and clawed to retake control of my body.Two people strode into the room. Light haloed around them so I couldn’t make any details. “Close the door, Cooper.” The shorter one knelt by my bed. “You look terrible for a succubus.”I blinked my eyes until I could focus and cleared my throat. “Get the fuck out.” Dinner had arrived and it took everything I had not to take a bite.The young man tilted his head to side as if confused. Blond with blue eyes the same shade as a tropical sea, he didn’t look much older than nineteen. “I’m here to rescue you, sweet heart.” He caressed my cheek and all thoughts of saving him stopped on a dime.
AUTHOR BIOAnnie Nicholas writes paranormal romance with a twist. She has courted vampires, hunted with shifters, and slain a dragon’s ego all with the might of her pen. Riding the wind of her imagination, she travels beyond the restraints of reality and shares them with anyone wanting to read her stories. Mother, daughter, and wife are some of the other hats she wears while hiking through the hills and dales of her adopted state of Vermont.Annie writes for Samhain Publishing, Carina Press, and Lyrical Press.
FOLLOW LINKSWebsite - Blog - Facebook - Twitter - Goodreads - Pinterest - Newsletter
GIVEAWAYTwelve (12) $5 Amazon Gift cards Six (6) Romance Paperbacks Swag & Jewellerya Rafflecopter giveawayTour Organized By:


Published on July 15, 2014 07:30
July 14, 2014
Book Review for The Woods by Ronald Lee Geigle. Historical fiction at its best.


Blasting railways into the side of mountains, scaling Douglas firs that tower 200 feet. These visions draw 18-year-old Albert Weissler to a job with the Skybillings Logging Company in the high mountains of Washington State. But a train crash on a mountainside that kills a friend, and Albert's discovery that it was sabotage, quickly dash boyhood dreams and launch a saga of love, grand dreams, and transformation in the turbulent world of big-timber logging and labor unrest in late-1930s America.
This is The Woods, part coming of age story, part historical novel. It is the story of Albert learning to survive in a dangerous and unforgiving environment; Albert's mother, Lydia, struggling to restart her life after Albert's father is killed in the woods; WWI veteran and Skybillings owner, Bud Cole, trying to rebuild his dream after the market crash destroyed him; and savvy firebrand Clare Ristall campaigning to win a political election, build a new union - and win Lydia's love.
The Woods is a beautiful panorama of lives and dreams during one of the most defining moments of American history, as have's and have-not's, the powerful and the ordinary, struggle to survive in the wake of economic upheaval. This is a book that paints the inner complexities and nuances of its characters as beautifully as it portrays the raw splendor of the Northwest's ice-topped peaks and unrelenting natural power of the woods themselves.

Author BioRonald Lee Geigle grew up in the Pacific Northwest. He was born in Monroe, Washington, and attended Meadowdale Senior High School. After graduating from the University of Washington, he headed for Washington, DC, where he has spent the past 30+ Links
· Twitter: https://twitter.com/rongeigle· Goodreads author page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7509016.Ronald_Geigle· Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0991271319/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0991271319&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2

I received the book from the touring host for an honest review.
I must admit, after reading two or three chapters of this book I had to serve the net, looking for pictures of Seakomish Valley, I was not disappointed. The author gave an actual account of this beautiful place. As a hiker, I would have loved to walk the hills, finding it fascinating at every turn, enjoying the towering trees the author recounted in his book with deliberate strokes of his color pallet of words that really puts you inside the Fir woods. You can smell the sawdust, and oil, the sweat of the laboring men, and even feel the rain as it pelts down on you, soaking you to the bone, and eyeing the view that he so frequently describes. It was such a realistic description of the Valley that you really feel that you know the place.
The characters in the books feels like acquaintances, as if you will walk down the road and meet them as old friends. The book is filled with so many interesting personas that made them life-like and believable. You get a real sense of the hard times the people faced, the conditions they lived in but also the care and love that was still there. The hope that kept them moving forward.
The book was written right after the Great Depression of the 1930's. Work was scarce, money even scarcer and people's need to be heard demanded attention from the Empires that still excited. Failure was not an option, not for men like Bud Cole. His willingness to fight with all his might, to use the resources to his disposal, still believing in the goodness of men; really stood out the most. The young eighteen year old that just started in life, Albert Weissler who is working hard in the company his father once owned. Learning the hard way but yet kept his innocence, his genuine care for his friends and family amidst the hard work and the flaring tempers of co-workers. He was not afraid of doing the right thing even if it looked stupid to the rest.When Unions rose during these tumultuous time, trying to better the conditions of the workers, especially those in the lumber and shipping industry; tension became even worse. You could question their behavior as they stir the members to uprising and violence. But they genuinely believed they did if for the betterment of the people. The crew of Skybuillings was working hard, using their wit and determination to get the job done, despite the heat and pouring rain. When a fatal accident brought them almost to a standstill, their job security was tested once again.When Albert revealed the sabotage that caused the accident, the tension flared between this group of lumberjacks and the only woman, Zoe their faithful cook. Their courage and skills were tested at every turn. With Witstrop breathing down their necks to build the trestle in time and get the huge trunks of wood down the slopes of the mountains, it seemed that all was lost as Bud and his crew worked-almost inhumanly-to the demands of the big bosses, while protecting their camp. A great story of depth, human conflicts and emotions as you learn more about this period. Learning once again that men are truly stronger than they think they are. Winning the odds, making the best of the situation and always fighting to stay ahead of the pack.
Published on July 14, 2014 08:30
Book Blast: Breaking Free by Lisa N. Paul. Plus enter the wonderful giveaway.


PURCHASE LINKS: http://tinyurl.com/BtBkindle (kindle)http://tinyurl.com/BtBenook (nook)http://tinyurl.com/btbsw (smashwords)
SYNOPSIS:
Two people so bent they can no longer stand tall
With his sexy looks, his seductive dirty talk, and his resident bad boy reputation,Kyle Marx was the thrill-ride every woman wants to experience…at least once.
And once is all he’d ever offer.
Suffocating in his own personal hell, Kyle thought sex, booze, and drugs could numb the pain of his past
Until an angel challenged him to fight…to feel
After living through a childhood that left her vulnerable and exposed, Cate Lockton mastered the art of blending in instead of standing out. She locked herself away to prevent more damage to her already fractured heart. She never imagined a man with a past more broken than her own would crash into her world and force her to let him in.Their lives first collided on a stormy night. But Danny’s on Main is where they finally connected. A neighborhood bar where strangers become friends, friends become family and some become lovers, and where the strong learn that while you can bend to exist, sometimes you’ve gotta
Break… so you can Breathe.

BOOK TRAILER
EXCERPT:
“Danny, you don’t just hug random women without introducing yourself first. My Lord, it just comes off creepy.” The strawberry blonde woman stretched up on her tip-toes and pecked his cheek before extending her hand to Cate and Elliot. “Hi, I’m Julie Marcus; the hugger is my husband, Danny.”
AUTHOR BIO:
Lisa N. Paul is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, reader, writer, blogger, and self-proclaimed comedian—just not always in that order. Ever since she was a little girl, she has devoured books. Falling in love with the Sweet Valley High series at a young age drew Lisa to series books and inspired her to write her own. Thursday Nights is the first book in her Charistown series.
When not writing, Lisa can be found eating french fries and Godiva raspberry truffles, or hanging out with her husband and two sons.
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website – www.Lisanpaul.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LisaNPaul3
Twitter - @lisanpaul3
Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/LisaNPaul3

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Published on July 14, 2014 08:00
July 12, 2014
Announcing a Book Release: A Review for Ty the Bull by Kim Mutch Emerson, Rex Baughman and Brenda Perlin.
Today I have something unique on my blog. Not the normal books I usually promote on this blog, but a book that is extraordinary and to the point; or as I would say: short and sweet. It is such a privilege to be part of the release, knowing the authors and the excellent work they do; except for Rex of course.The ratings for this short but powerful story speaks for it self as you can see below.The story itself is written with so much love and compassion, the subject very dear to us all. Bullying, sadly to say rises all the more in our schools and children don't often have the voice to speak up. But this book, not only highlights the serious topic but shows you how to cope in the midst of the calamity that children face. A must read for young and old, children and parents, teachers and those in authoritative positions. We cannot neglect the small voice of a child that is suffering under this pressure. We need to be vigilant and wise to see the need, the pain and loneliness of such a child; making sure that we can and will protect every child from any harm. The emotional scaring from such an ordeal can effect a person till long after his/her school years. Lets be like Peacock, and show them how to defend themselves.I give this book 5 Stars, for content, for originality, for the beautiful drawings and the lovely cover design. All coming together to make this a must read. Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #32,308 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#8 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Children's eBooks > Literature & Fiction >
Short Story Collections
#16 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Children's eBooks > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Friendship, Social Skills & School Life >
Bullies
#54 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Friendship, Social Skills & School Life >
Bullies
TY THE BULL by Brenda Perlin, Kim Mutch Emerson and Rex Baughman
“Ty the Bull” Description
"Everything seemed to fall apart for Ty when his parents got a divorce. At his wits end after being bullied endlessly, he started to ditch school. It wasn't until he met up with a skater named Peacock that things somehow turned around and he put the pieces of his life back together.”
What happens to a boy when his parents don’t love each other enough to stay together and kids at school call him names for no reason.
Ty The Bull is a story that has been fictionalized but is based on the true life events of an average ten year old boy from Orange County California. This boy has had to endure bullies around every corner and to make matters worse he is dealing with his parents divorce. Things fall apart for him and he feels like he is alone and misunderstood. It's not until he meets this unsuspecting character that he finds new hope for a better future.
The reality that kids are coming to school carrying weapons due to the fact that they have been bullied is a sobering reality. Children should feel secure if not at school then at home. What happens when there is no place to turn to feel safe?
Ty the Bull is a story of inspiration. A child dealing with judgment of others needs to know that it doesn’t matter what others say. You are not alone and just they are saying mean things it doesn’t mean it is true.
I started writing this story when I was witnessing what this boy, Rex was enduring on a daily basis. Kids at school were devaluing him for no other reason than his name was funny, or he wore his hair the way he liked. These kids would have looked for anything to go after his self-worth.
Looking at him I couldn’t understand how the other kids would choose to pick on him. He is a good looking boy who is smart and has personality. Somehow that wasn’t enough.
Things got worse for Rex when his parents pulled the plug on their marriage and his safe, predictable family life changed in an instant.
Now he had to become strong without having the tools to pick up the pieces. Through the writing of this book I believe Rex has become empowered. He has seen that if you work hard for something it pays off in more ways than one. He now knows that fighting is wrong and doesn’t solve the problem. Learning to outsmart the bullies has been a real eye opener. Keep them guessing is what he has learned to do. There is no reason their story can’t be heard. This is why we started Rex’s blog, http://tythebull.com. we hope others will visit and share their stories. No child should ever have to feel alone.
This story was a labor of love. Written by Kim Mutch Emerson, Rex Baughman and myself. Rex’s does the illustrations.
Ty the Bull has a July 12th release date.
Please join theTy the Bull NO BULLIES launch party on Facebook, Saturday July 12th at 10:00 am to 11:00 am PST.
Brenda Perlin and Kim Mutch Emerson will be doing this quick ONE HOUR event in celebration of the launch of Ty The Bull. There will be fun & games and prizes too. Win bracelets by Rex as well.
This is a no bullies zone! ;-)
https://www.facebook.com/events/634944403255571/
To follow the blog http://tythebull.comand the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Tythebull
Ty the Bull Book Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0x3Hpg3lbM

TY THE BULL by Brenda Perlin, Kim Mutch Emerson and Rex Baughman
“Ty the Bull” Description
"Everything seemed to fall apart for Ty when his parents got a divorce. At his wits end after being bullied endlessly, he started to ditch school. It wasn't until he met up with a skater named Peacock that things somehow turned around and he put the pieces of his life back together.”
What happens to a boy when his parents don’t love each other enough to stay together and kids at school call him names for no reason.
Ty The Bull is a story that has been fictionalized but is based on the true life events of an average ten year old boy from Orange County California. This boy has had to endure bullies around every corner and to make matters worse he is dealing with his parents divorce. Things fall apart for him and he feels like he is alone and misunderstood. It's not until he meets this unsuspecting character that he finds new hope for a better future.
The reality that kids are coming to school carrying weapons due to the fact that they have been bullied is a sobering reality. Children should feel secure if not at school then at home. What happens when there is no place to turn to feel safe?
Ty the Bull is a story of inspiration. A child dealing with judgment of others needs to know that it doesn’t matter what others say. You are not alone and just they are saying mean things it doesn’t mean it is true.

I started writing this story when I was witnessing what this boy, Rex was enduring on a daily basis. Kids at school were devaluing him for no other reason than his name was funny, or he wore his hair the way he liked. These kids would have looked for anything to go after his self-worth.
Looking at him I couldn’t understand how the other kids would choose to pick on him. He is a good looking boy who is smart and has personality. Somehow that wasn’t enough.
Things got worse for Rex when his parents pulled the plug on their marriage and his safe, predictable family life changed in an instant.
Now he had to become strong without having the tools to pick up the pieces. Through the writing of this book I believe Rex has become empowered. He has seen that if you work hard for something it pays off in more ways than one. He now knows that fighting is wrong and doesn’t solve the problem. Learning to outsmart the bullies has been a real eye opener. Keep them guessing is what he has learned to do. There is no reason their story can’t be heard. This is why we started Rex’s blog, http://tythebull.com. we hope others will visit and share their stories. No child should ever have to feel alone.
This story was a labor of love. Written by Kim Mutch Emerson, Rex Baughman and myself. Rex’s does the illustrations.
Ty the Bull has a July 12th release date.
Please join theTy the Bull NO BULLIES launch party on Facebook, Saturday July 12th at 10:00 am to 11:00 am PST.
Brenda Perlin and Kim Mutch Emerson will be doing this quick ONE HOUR event in celebration of the launch of Ty The Bull. There will be fun & games and prizes too. Win bracelets by Rex as well.
This is a no bullies zone! ;-)
https://www.facebook.com/events/634944403255571/
To follow the blog http://tythebull.comand the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Tythebull
Ty the Bull Book Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0x3Hpg3lbM
Published on July 12, 2014 11:00