R.E. Hargrave's Blog, page 405
October 10, 2013
Lucky Girl by Violet Ivy BLOG TOUR
Lucky Girl - How I Survived the Sex Industry
by Violet Ivy
Amazon I Barnes & Noble
‘…gripped me from the start …very readable, an honest account of someone 'who's been there'. An important work worth publication.’Ruko Kitamaru, Author, No Ice Cream in the Land of the Cannibals
‘More, more….more please! I got to the end and still wanted to keep reading. Fantastic!’ Irene K, Sydney, Australia
‘Is this woman real? She must be. You couldn’t make this story up. I feel that I know her, the way she thinks, her motivations. Can’t wait for the sequel.'Mel H, Birmingham, England
‘I read every chapter and want more. A fascinating look into your world presented with straight forward honesty, warmth and colour. Such a fresh contrast to the drab, dark or dirty shades that the media and society paints your career. I’m completely fascinated to know more about Violet, she's so real.’ K Malone, Author, Twell
Summary: The intimate autobiography of an international call girl. Scary, funny and bizarre stories recorded for your amusement, edification or simply for interesting dinner conversation.
The sex industry is clouded in mystery. It has to be to some extent or it wouldn't survive. But in this age of internet porn, buying pubic hair trimmings online and wife swapping parties it’s about time the veils of mystery were taken down.
For moralists, let’s visit the chicken and the egg scenario. Which came first the prostitute or the client? If there were no clients then obviously there would be no sex workers. But what if there weren't any prostitutes? Would guys wank themselves silly to porn? Harass their post-menopausal wives? Frequent bars trying their luck? Or hassle the secretary and risk being charged with sexual harassment? Would statistics for rape be on the increase? Is prostitution a necessary evil in our society? Don’t mindlessly believe and quote information spoon fed to you by friends, family or the media. Make an educated decision.
Although it was never my intention to get into this industry, I've traveled the world, had incredible experiences and bought several properties. I won’t have to rely on the government pension when I retire.
My closest friends are co-workers, madams and clients. Brilliant people who I would never otherwise have had the good fortune to meet. I will never regret my decision to enter this field. It has not always been a bed of roses, but when I compare it to what my life might have been; cleaning job, shitty boss, marriage, perhaps divorce, mortgage, kids, living in the burbs, scraping by to give my kids a better life than I was destined for, I feel that I have been rescued…..thank God.
Money doesn’t make you happy? Tell that to someone thrown out of his house because he can’t make the payments or the mother who can’t afford Christmas presents for her kids again this year. I’ve been poor. Money equals choices. Options of how to travel on this journey we call life. Did I make some mistakes? Sure! But there’s not too much I’d change. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Money gives security. Poverty causes ulcers. Financial hardship can also make you compromise yourself in ways that being a sex worker never will.
This industry eats its young and damages those not strong enough to cope. Every worker has a different personality, head space, upbringing, personal history and therefore experience. This book is a glimpse of mine. I am not advocating anyone join the profession. That is a personal choice.
When I started out I could never have imagined what my life journey would look like or where I would be now. I don’t even know where in the world I will be in twelve months. What I will be doing? Who I might be bonking, caning or smearing with hot wax? Exciting isn’t it? Carpe diem – seize the day. I’m a lucky girl.
‘I was interested in comparing this with Belle de Jour’s books which I read last year. Whilst I remember almost nothing of hers, I’m pretty sure parts of your diary will stay with me. You’re not afraid to tell it as it is; warts, unpleasant odours and all!’ Camac Johnson, Author, Hemingway Quest
Amazon I Barnes & Noble Book Depository I Kobo I BookLocker
‘A light and humorous but overall compelling biography….an in depth and revealing picture of the life of a sex worker, at the same time demonstrating that someone working in this industry has the talent and perspicacity to write a biography of this quality. Well done…..it’s really very good.’Janet Holt and Helen Parker, Authors, The Stranger In My Life
Author bio Violet Ivy grew up on a small wheat and sheep farm in the outback of Western Australia. A spray of freckles across her nose, pigtails streaming down her back as she swam naked in the local creek to cool off during the endless summers. Who could have predicted her transformation into one of the world’s most elite, international escorts? The wanton woman satisfying the needs and desires of the most affluent men and women of the globe.Life was not always easy for Violet. Hers is a rags-to-riches story from the seedy brothels of the mining town Kalgoorlie to attending the Kentucky Derby and the Oscars on the arms of the most influential men on the face of the planet. Violet continues to work in an industry that can either make or break it's players. She has had to learn how to adapt and hone her expertise to climb to the top of her game. Based in Melbourne, Australia, where sex work is legal, she travels to far flung places, (if the money's right), as either a courtesan or a fetish Mistress, fulfilling her clients' needs and desires. Encouragement from friends and family to share her adventures led her to begin a series of books exposing the realities behind the veil of the oldest profession in the world. She introduces her readers to myriad bizarre, scary and hilarious people and situations she comes across in her travels.
Where to find Ms. Ivy
Twitter @VioletyIvy2Facebook I Goodreads Email I Website
‘From the opening paragraph to the final words I was hooked, no pun intended. Frankly there is no other book like Lucky Girl whether one reaches for Diary of a Call Girl or The Happy Hooker. Well, there is one comparison...the work of Nancy Friday who wrote in a similar fashion. When one writes about bondage and discipline it is necessary to keep in mind the sensibilities of readers who may not understand these matters. For me it was an eye-opener. Lucky Girl gave me an understanding of B&D that now makes complete sense to me. People should read this and understand the life and mind of a sex worker. It becomes obvious very quickly that not all are uneducated drug addicts who can't hold down a job anywhere else. I look forward to the follow up books. Violet Ivy is a writer, and that is the highest praise any reviewer can give. To possess such talent suggests that Violet Ivy is indeed a Lucky Girl.’ Graham Whittaker, Author, The Girl from Kosovo
Amazon I Barnes & Noble
‘…gripped me from the start …very readable, an honest account of someone 'who's been there'. An important work worth publication.’Ruko Kitamaru, Author, No Ice Cream in the Land of the Cannibals
‘More, more….more please! I got to the end and still wanted to keep reading. Fantastic!’ Irene K, Sydney, Australia
‘Is this woman real? She must be. You couldn’t make this story up. I feel that I know her, the way she thinks, her motivations. Can’t wait for the sequel.'Mel H, Birmingham, England
‘I read every chapter and want more. A fascinating look into your world presented with straight forward honesty, warmth and colour. Such a fresh contrast to the drab, dark or dirty shades that the media and society paints your career. I’m completely fascinated to know more about Violet, she's so real.’ K Malone, Author, Twell
Summary: The intimate autobiography of an international call girl. Scary, funny and bizarre stories recorded for your amusement, edification or simply for interesting dinner conversation.
The sex industry is clouded in mystery. It has to be to some extent or it wouldn't survive. But in this age of internet porn, buying pubic hair trimmings online and wife swapping parties it’s about time the veils of mystery were taken down.
For moralists, let’s visit the chicken and the egg scenario. Which came first the prostitute or the client? If there were no clients then obviously there would be no sex workers. But what if there weren't any prostitutes? Would guys wank themselves silly to porn? Harass their post-menopausal wives? Frequent bars trying their luck? Or hassle the secretary and risk being charged with sexual harassment? Would statistics for rape be on the increase? Is prostitution a necessary evil in our society? Don’t mindlessly believe and quote information spoon fed to you by friends, family or the media. Make an educated decision.
Although it was never my intention to get into this industry, I've traveled the world, had incredible experiences and bought several properties. I won’t have to rely on the government pension when I retire.
My closest friends are co-workers, madams and clients. Brilliant people who I would never otherwise have had the good fortune to meet. I will never regret my decision to enter this field. It has not always been a bed of roses, but when I compare it to what my life might have been; cleaning job, shitty boss, marriage, perhaps divorce, mortgage, kids, living in the burbs, scraping by to give my kids a better life than I was destined for, I feel that I have been rescued…..thank God.
Money doesn’t make you happy? Tell that to someone thrown out of his house because he can’t make the payments or the mother who can’t afford Christmas presents for her kids again this year. I’ve been poor. Money equals choices. Options of how to travel on this journey we call life. Did I make some mistakes? Sure! But there’s not too much I’d change. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Money gives security. Poverty causes ulcers. Financial hardship can also make you compromise yourself in ways that being a sex worker never will.
This industry eats its young and damages those not strong enough to cope. Every worker has a different personality, head space, upbringing, personal history and therefore experience. This book is a glimpse of mine. I am not advocating anyone join the profession. That is a personal choice.
When I started out I could never have imagined what my life journey would look like or where I would be now. I don’t even know where in the world I will be in twelve months. What I will be doing? Who I might be bonking, caning or smearing with hot wax? Exciting isn’t it? Carpe diem – seize the day. I’m a lucky girl.
‘I was interested in comparing this with Belle de Jour’s books which I read last year. Whilst I remember almost nothing of hers, I’m pretty sure parts of your diary will stay with me. You’re not afraid to tell it as it is; warts, unpleasant odours and all!’ Camac Johnson, Author, Hemingway Quest
Amazon I Barnes & Noble Book Depository I Kobo I BookLocker
‘A light and humorous but overall compelling biography….an in depth and revealing picture of the life of a sex worker, at the same time demonstrating that someone working in this industry has the talent and perspicacity to write a biography of this quality. Well done…..it’s really very good.’Janet Holt and Helen Parker, Authors, The Stranger In My Life
Author bio Violet Ivy grew up on a small wheat and sheep farm in the outback of Western Australia. A spray of freckles across her nose, pigtails streaming down her back as she swam naked in the local creek to cool off during the endless summers. Who could have predicted her transformation into one of the world’s most elite, international escorts? The wanton woman satisfying the needs and desires of the most affluent men and women of the globe.Life was not always easy for Violet. Hers is a rags-to-riches story from the seedy brothels of the mining town Kalgoorlie to attending the Kentucky Derby and the Oscars on the arms of the most influential men on the face of the planet. Violet continues to work in an industry that can either make or break it's players. She has had to learn how to adapt and hone her expertise to climb to the top of her game. Based in Melbourne, Australia, where sex work is legal, she travels to far flung places, (if the money's right), as either a courtesan or a fetish Mistress, fulfilling her clients' needs and desires. Encouragement from friends and family to share her adventures led her to begin a series of books exposing the realities behind the veil of the oldest profession in the world. She introduces her readers to myriad bizarre, scary and hilarious people and situations she comes across in her travels.
Where to find Ms. Ivy
Twitter @VioletyIvy2Facebook I Goodreads Email I Website
‘From the opening paragraph to the final words I was hooked, no pun intended. Frankly there is no other book like Lucky Girl whether one reaches for Diary of a Call Girl or The Happy Hooker. Well, there is one comparison...the work of Nancy Friday who wrote in a similar fashion. When one writes about bondage and discipline it is necessary to keep in mind the sensibilities of readers who may not understand these matters. For me it was an eye-opener. Lucky Girl gave me an understanding of B&D that now makes complete sense to me. People should read this and understand the life and mind of a sex worker. It becomes obvious very quickly that not all are uneducated drug addicts who can't hold down a job anywhere else. I look forward to the follow up books. Violet Ivy is a writer, and that is the highest praise any reviewer can give. To possess such talent suggests that Violet Ivy is indeed a Lucky Girl.’ Graham Whittaker, Author, The Girl from Kosovo
COVER REVEAL: Tales From the End by Lissa Bryan
From the author of
The End of All Things
comes a collection of short stories about the Infection that swept around the globe, decimating the population, and leaving behind a small number of survivors, unprepared to deal with the brutal new world which had replaced the one they'd known.The End of All Things told the story of Carly Daniels, a young woman in Juneau, Alaska, left in a state of shock after the virus ravaged her home town. She ekes out a meager existence by scavenging for herself and Sam, the wolf puppy she found starving in the streets. Sam gives her a reason to keep going when giving up seems like the more attractive option.
Carly is discovered by Justin, an ex-soldier who is intent on making his way to a warmer climate before the winter sets in. Justin coaxes her out of her hiding place and convinces her to join him on his journey. They travel across a shattered nation in search of a safe place to settle, but it's also a journey into love. There is still hope, a light among the shadows. If the old world is gone, it is up to the survivors to build a new one.
Carly finds strength in her faith that things can be even better than they were before, that compassion and charity are not luxuries; they are what make us human. Life endures, and so does love. The End of All Things is only a beginning.
And now, Lissa Bryan gives us three new stories in Tales from the End. Three of them introduce us to new characters you will meet in the upcoming sequel to The End of All Things, and the fourth, "Birthday" is a visit with old friends.
The HorsemenL.A.'s mayor has declared quarantine to try to halt the spread of the Infection. Pearl sets off across the city to buy supplies, but already the world is changing. Something strange is in the air. The Horsemen are coming ...VeronicaWhen Veronica's mother doesn't come home from work and no one answers the phone when she calls for help, a nine-year-old girl is thrown into the chaos of a world coming to an end. The television shows her nothing but confusing images she doesn't understand. Veronica decides it's up to her to find her family. "Veronica" is the story of a little girl's courage in the face of the end of all things.
"I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud"They called her Shadowfax-- the mare Carly and Justin found on their travels. But before she was found by Carly, the retired dressage horse was known as Cloud. An unusual tale of the end, told through the eyes of a confused and lonely horse, left in her pasture.
BirthdayA previously-published bonus story. Carly knows Justin has never celebrated his birthday, and after society crumbled, no one knows what date it is, anyway. But she wants to do something special for him. Celebrating the little things helps them keep hope alive, and as a blizzard rages outside, a small gesture of love warms their home.
Tales of courage, tales of survival... Tales from the End.
.¸¸•.¸¸.•´¯`• (¯`•♥•´¯)•´¯`•.¸¸.•.¸¸.
Lissa Bryan is an astronaut, renowned Kabuki actress, Olympic pole vault gold medalist, Iron Chef champion, and scientist who recently discovered the cure for athlete's foot ... though only in her head. Real life isn't so interesting, which is why she spends most of her time writing.
Her first novel, Ghostwriter , is available through The Writer's Coffee Shop (which is the least expensive option), Amazon, iTunes, and Kobo. Her second novel, The End of All Things , was released on January 24, 2013, and is available through TWCS, Amazon, and iTunes. She also has a short story in the Romantic Interludes anthology, available from TWCS, Amazonand iTunes. Her third novel, Under These Restless Skies, is scheduled for release in spring of 2014.
Author Links
Website ♥Facebook ♥ Twitter ♥ TWCS (Publisher) ♥ Amazon♥ Barnes & Noble ♥ iTunes ♥ Youtube book trailers
October 8, 2013
REVIEW: Wishing Cotton by Elizabeth M. Lawrence
Wishing Cotton by Elizabeth M. LawrenceMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’ve been anxious to get my hands on a finished product of Lawrence’s for some time now, and at last, I’ve had my chance. Wishing Cotton is quick read, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll quickly forget it. Lawrence has taken the whimsical idea of “wishing” and spun a delightful tale that makes you think.
As kids we all wished on a variety of things—I still wish on eyelashes to this day—but did any of them ever come true?
Maybe some aspect of our wishes did. But was that because we chose the right thing to wish on, or because we wanted whatever it was bad enough to go after it. In making that wish, did we make a silent pact with ourselves to go forth in pursuit of our dreams?
Fancy a witty tale that will make you smile, and perhaps even dare to believe in something that you once thought out of your reach? Wishing Cotton gets a five butterfly recommendation from me to be the one that you reach for.
BUY IT NOW on Amazon
View all my reviews
October 7, 2013
Monday Madness!
Doing some housekeeping and tidying my desk!
First up, does everyone remember the 1000 Likes Giveaway I wanted to host? Well, guess what? It's started, and turned into a Reader Appreciation Gift Pack with 21 items from some amazing authors!
ENTER TO WIN
Second, by now y'all should know I love to help out other Indies in any way I can, so below you will find some sign ups for giveaway donations, cover reveals, and blog tours. If you are a blogger, author, or just an avid fan with a Facebook page you don't mind sharing the info on, please hop on board to show your support!
Donations Needed:Sherri Hayes 2k LIKES GiveawayLisa Bilbrey's Mega-Giveaway for the release of The Journey Collection
Cover Reveals:Desire by Bee WildeWhere We Fell by Amber L. JohnsonTales From the End by Lissa BryanThe Northern Gate by J.C. Clarke
Blog Tours:The Truth Seekers by Elizabeth M. LawrenceTake a Gamble by N. WoodHonour by M.B. FeeneyThe Northern Gate by J.C. ClarkeMelting the Snow anthology from Renaissance Romance PublishingThe Hallelujah Baby by Kathleen Martin
October 5, 2013
Tormented by Lorenz Font BLOG TOUR
Are you ready for the next installment in
The Gates Legacy?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Summary: Tor Burns is a non-infected vampire who has taken refuge in the Tack Enterprises underground facility. Having survived a vicious attack with his fellow vampire Harrow, he now has a new purpose. Vampires afflicted with Gates Syndrome are still being hunted, and Tor is committed to saving them from the clutches of the Vampire Council. With a semi-cure within their grasp, Tor is reluctant to accept his new assignment: bodyguard to Allison Tack, the daughter of their fallen leader. Armed with an abrasive personality and fierce loyalty, Tor approaches this new responsibility with serious determination despite his reservations.
Vampire Allison Tack is the beautiful and timid co-heir of the Tack fortune. Infected and hunted by the Council, those lucky enough to have known her father are determined to keep her safe. A walking target wherever she goes, Allison wants to learn how to protect herself, but no one is listening. Sick of being the helpless one in the company of trained fighters around her, Allison vows to prove that she can fight alongside the best of them.
Meanwhile, the harem leader, Melissa, is hell-bent on unraveling any clue about her son Demetrius’s fate. He disappeared without a word, and time has made her desperate. Stepping up her efforts, she seeks the help of Demetrius’s son, Zane. With the additional manpower, Melissa finds the lair of the suspected vampires and wages war against them.
Thrown together by necessity, Tor and Allison can’t continue to deny their attraction to each other. Tor wants to give in to his feelings for her, but old demons resurface. He must confront the past to prevent losing the best thing that ever happened to him.
A life must be given for a life taken. Will Tor have to sacrifice himself before Allison pays the price?
My Review:*I was provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Where to begin with the second installment of The Gates Legacy . . .
WOW is as good a place as any for Font clearly hit her stride while penning this one.
Tormented continues the main story line of the war between the Vampire Council and "Team Tack"- a motley crew of vampires and humans, also known as 'the good guys,' who are out to assist the ailing vampires of the world.
We get to see how the relationship between Jordan and Harrow has progressed since Hunted, how little Gail has endeared her way into everyone's hearts, and my favorite development: how Font brought some of the side characters from book one to the forefront of book two to give them their moment in the spotlight.
I should add here that Ms. Font has drawn her line in the sand; The Gates Legacy is an adult series without question now. Not so much in that its graphically explicit in its descriptions - its not - but it does delve into well-written situations from intimate moments (Can we get a whoopi cheer for Ally & Tor? Those two definitely needed it!) to mayhem and murder.
Yes, folks, death happens. Characters die, but the story goes on.
So much is packed into Tormented that I can only encourage you to get your copy so you don't miss any of it. This was a fantastic addition to the Legacy and I await, with high anticipation, the arrival of Ascension.
Font's style is engaging, action-packed, and heartfelt. She writes from within her soul, and I foresee great things coming from her in the future.
Five well-deserved butterflies for Tormented!
What are you waiting for? Get your copy NOW: Amazon
Author Bio
Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. She is currently enjoying the buzz from her debut novel Hunted, the first installment of The Gates Legacy trilogy.
Writing is therapeutic for Lorenz, and a perfect day consists of writing and playing with her characters while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She enjoys dabbling in different genres, with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
Lorenz currently lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. She divides her time between a full-time job as a Business Office Manager for a hospital and her busy writing schedule.
Find her at:
Facebook I Twitter I Website I BlogIndependent Author Network I LinkedIn Goodreads I About.me I Pinterest
TOUR SCHEDULE:9/17: Review: Trenda Lundin I Review: Debra Mauldin
9/18: Review: Anna Crosswell I Guest Post: Donna Huber
9/19: Review, Promo/Excerpt: Sarah Aisling I Review, Interview: Claudia Trapp
9/20: Review: Mich’s Book Reviews
9/21: Review, Promo/Excerpt: Nina Gomez
9/22: Review, Promo/Excerpt: Wyndy Dee
9/23: Promo/Excerpt: Jennifer Garcia
9/24: Promo/Excerpt: Sapphire Kande I Review, Promo/Excerpt: Vampire Romance Books
9/25: Review: I love Vampire Novels
9/26: Promo/Excerpt: Natasha Larry I Promo/Excerpt: Lindsey Gray I Promo/Excerpt: Sydney Logan
9/27: Review: Kaidan’s Seduction
9/28: Guest Post: Elizabeth M. Lawrence
9/29: Review, Interview: Babus Book Reviews
9/30: Promo/Excerpt: S.A. Jones
10/1: Guest Post: N. Wood
10/2: Promo/Excerpt: J.C. Clarke I Promo/Excerpt: NK Smith
10/3: Review, Promo/Excerpt: FS Meurinne
10/4: Review: Annemarie
10/5: Review: The Hive Book Reviews I Review: R.E. Hargrave I Review: Tammy Sanders
October 2, 2013
You're Invited!
Please join me October 15th through 17th as I celebrate the relaunch of my books with new covers and lower prices including access to the Kindle MatchBook program. If you purchase the paperback version, you will be given the chance to also pick up the Kindle edition for only 99 cents!
Several AMAZING blogs have offered to help me get the word out and I'll be holding a Rafflecopter giveaway for a couple of goodies. So, be sure to check back on the 15th for a complete list of everyone participating.
Don't want to wait two weeks? The new retail links are over on the Get It Here tab!
September 27, 2013
Shut the Front Door!
WOW WOW WOW!
I've been sitting at about 950 'likes' on my Facebook Author Page for some time now. Suddenly I blinked and its gone past 1000!
To celebrate, I'd like to put a call out to any authors or bloggers who would be willing to donate to a READER APPRECIATION SWAG PACK.
Email me at rehargrave@gmail.com if you'd like to participate.
INCLUDE what you are able to supply (ebook, swag, signed book, etc) and which links (Facebook, Twitter, etc) that you would like to be used on the Rafflecopter giveaway. I'll put the giveaway together next weekend and run it from October 7-14.
Thank you to all of you FABULOUS people!!
I've been sitting at about 950 'likes' on my Facebook Author Page for some time now. Suddenly I blinked and its gone past 1000!
To celebrate, I'd like to put a call out to any authors or bloggers who would be willing to donate to a READER APPRECIATION SWAG PACK.
Email me at rehargrave@gmail.com if you'd like to participate.
INCLUDE what you are able to supply (ebook, swag, signed book, etc) and which links (Facebook, Twitter, etc) that you would like to be used on the Rafflecopter giveaway. I'll put the giveaway together next weekend and run it from October 7-14.
Thank you to all of you FABULOUS people!!
September 23, 2013
The Journey to a New Life by Lisa Bilbrey BLOG TOUR
ON SALE SEPTEMBER 10, 2013
*be sure to enter the Rafflecopter GIVEAWAY at the bottom*
Summary— Travis McCoy’s journey has led him down a road of changes where he found the love of his life and their child. Travis, Penelope, and Max have struggled during their time apart, found their way back home, and finally tied their lives together as a family. Now, Penelope and Travis find themselves on a new journey, one that leads them to the greatest journey of all.
Excerpt:
At the brink of dusk, Travis held his arm out to Nadine. She smiled and slid her fingers around his bicep, clutching onto him. They were standing at one end of a covered bridge in Brandenburg Park, at the base of the Red River Ski Area, while Russ, Max, and Penelope stood at the other end. They had placed lanterns and candles along the way to offer a soft, sensual ambiance.
“Are you ready, Nadine?” Travis asked, looking down at the woman who had captured his father’s heart.“More than ever.” She smiled. The two of them started across the bridge at a slow pace.
In two years, so much of Travis’s life had changed. After an injury ended his professional football career, he had come home to face his past. At the time, Travis had been prepared to fight with his father about the choices he’d made, yet somehow they had been able to rip off the bandages and expose their wounded souls to one another. With everything out in the open, Travis and Russ had begun to mend their tattered relationship and were now closer than they had ever been.
Travis shifted his attention to Max. He had been the person who brought them all together. Max had come barreling into Travis’s life with a bounce in his step and a positive outlook on life that most ten year olds didn’t have. The moment Travis looked from the boy to Penelope, he’d known Max was his son. At first, he had been angry that he’d missed out the chance to be a father to Max, but when Penelope explained why she hid his son from him, he understood.
Travis had been so wrapped up in achieving his dream of becoming a star football player that Penelope had been afraid of telling him she was pregnant for fear of him resenting her for taking away his dream. As much as he had wanted to deny her claims, Travis couldn’t. He wouldn’t have abandoned her or their child, but he could admit that a part of him would have grown to resent her for trapping him in a life that he had never wanted — or that he hadn’t thought he wanted. At eighteen, he was too dumb to know that he could have had everything.
None of that mattered now, though. Travis had allowed himself to love Penelope again, to be the man she’d always known he was meant to become. He became Max’s father, someone for him to admire and strive to emulate. Travis’s life had endured a couple of bumps in the road, but in the long run, he was right where he was supposed to be: on a covered bridge, walking his soon-to-be step-mother down the aisle so she could marry his father.
“Wow, honey, you look amazing,” Russ said as Travis and Nadine stopped in front of him.
Travis took Nadine’s hand and placed it in his father’s. Shifting his eyes up to Russ’s, Travis told him, “Just love her.”
“I do, boy, I do,” Russ replied.
My Reviews: The Journey to a New Life is the fourth installment of The Journey Collection, and as such, I agreed to review the entire collection in exchange for ARC copies.
The Journey Home (#1)
Goodreads I AmazonIn this opening installment of The Journey Collection, we are introduced to Travis McCoy, high school football legend who got the dream: he went pro. What Travis doesn't realize until a decade later when an injury takes him out of the game, is that in going after one dream, he left another behind.
Unsure what to do when he can no longer play, Travis makes a long overdue trip back home, back to where it all began for him. What he finds is that for the most part, things have stayed the same; but there are some big changes as well. His old girlfriend Penelope is still there, and still harbors feelings for him. Kind of hard not to when she has been looking at a miniature of Travis’ face the whole time he’s been gone.
Faced with a broken relationship with his father, learning he’s a father himself, and discovering if old flames can be rekindled, Travis finds that the journey home couldn't have come at a better time.
The Journey of Champions (#2)
Goodreads I AmazonOnce again, the story opens with Travis McCoy preparing for a journey. When the first book had him going home and reconnecting with Penelope, this time the journey takes us along while Travis and his dad get all of their issues out in the open. Along the way, they have to accept some hard truths and ask forgiveness of each other.
Travis returns to Florida to officially close out his business with the Sharks, and his dad comes along. In working out their demons, Travis is also able to find the answers he’s been looking forward with regards to his future. Decisions made, when he gets back to Clarendon he knows he’s there for good, for his family.
While the game time scenes were a bit drawn out and over-detailed for my liking, as a whole, this next installment of The Journey Collection moved the series along nicely. Kudos to the writing and creation of Max’s character—that kid is the best!
The Journey to Forever (#3)
Goodreads I AmazonIn book three, Bilbrey really finds her stride with her small Texas town crew. Hands down, the star of this installment is Max. Finally secure that his dad, former Sharks quarterback Travis McCoy, is home for good, Max settles into a new life that includes a famous father.
Travis mans up and offers to make an honest woman out of Penelope, but theirs is not the only relationship that blooms. Seems all the menfolk end up “twitter-pated” this time around, even Max!
Cozy up for a light-hearted read that will have you saying ‘awwww’ and reaching for the Kleenex.
***drumroll***The Journey to a New Life (#4)
Goodreads I Amazon The final installment in The Journey Collection was by far my favorite. Maybe because it was the ‘girliest’ of them all? Not too surprising, because of the title and the cover, Travis’s final journey is pregnancy. No, not literally for him, but he gets to be there while Penelope goes through all the hilarious, horrible, and tender stages. With raging hormones comes elevated levels of libido and moments prone to coarser language; so be ready for a bit more of the risqué in this one, too!
All-in-all, The Journey Collection was a good story that sends a sweet message about the importance of family and believing in yourself. I’d definitely recommend getting the whole collection, as you’ll want to keep reading.
Author Bio— Lisa Bilbrey is a mom of three and has been married to her high school sweetheart since 1996. Finding a love in the written word, she started writing as a way to express herself. From the first word she wrote, she'd found her heart and soul. Always willing to learn, she's spends much of her time trying to improve as a storyteller. In late 2011, Lisa opened Renaissance Romance Publishing with Michele Richard and Laura Braley.
Links— Goodreads I Facebook I Twitter I Blog I About.me Amazon I Barnes & Noble Renaissance Romance Publishing
Follow The Journey to a New Life Tour:
9/10: Promo/Excerpt: Fandom Fanatic Review, Promo/excerpt: FS Meurinne9/11: Guest Post: Lorenz Font 9/12: Interview: Jude Ouvrard9/13: Review: Lindsey Gray Review: Sarah Carroll9/14: Promo/Excerpt: S.A. Jones9/15: Review: N. Wood9/16: Review: Mich’s Book Reviews9/17: Guest Post: Michele Richard9/18: Guest Post: Jude Ouvrard9/19: Guest Post: Donna Huber Review: Anna Crosswell9/20: Guest Post: Laura Braley9/21: Guest Post: Elizabeth M. Lawrence9/22: Interview: M.C. Rayne9/23: Promo/Excerpt: Jennifer Garcia Guest Post: Elena M. Reyes Review: R. E. Hargrave
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September 22, 2013
COVER REVEAL: Fall Fires Anthology from Renaissance Romance Publishing
Coming October 22, 2013 . . . Six stories of love, and all the ups and downs that come with it.The twist? These tales all feature male/male couples. You can't choose who you love.
Fall Fire Summaries:
Winter’s Love: N.L. LeeksA past relationship has left Jared Winter broken. When Eric Healey runs into him, Jared finds a reason to learn to trust again. The two men begin to fall for one another, but the prejudice around them threatens to tear them apart. Can their love survive in the real world?
Wonderland: Jude OuvrardLucas Colton is far too young to go through all this pain but meeting poetry teacher, Preston Davidson, changed everything. His life went from heartbreak to joyful and then, from friendship to love. The impact Preston had on Lucas’ life was mesmerising. What would you do if you knew you may not have a tomorrow?
If This Is Wrong: K.L. PlattAs children, Thomas and Caleb formed an unlikely friendship, which has continued through tragedies and celebrations and into manhood. They have grown together over the years, but now their relationship is changing into something more. Can their bond survive the challenges that life will bring them? Is it wrong to risk everything for the chance of something more?
Our Walk to Remember: M.C. RayneFor the Robinson-Shae family, an annual charity walk means more to them than any expensive holiday abroad. After all, it’s where Elisha’s fathers met, and this year it’s even more important to her. Sammy couldn't make it this time, so she asks Charlie to share memories of how they met, and fell in love.
Love, Unexpected: C.W. StephensAs Michael and Chuck's loving union comes to pass, two, gay members of the wedding party discover the sweet bonds of a comfortable companionship. Attraction becomes more as they recognize their true soul mate in each other, which fills the romantic void in their solitary lives. It seems only one, small obstacle stands in their way.
Woodshed Wishes: N.WoodBen, a young gay romance author, loses his way in the forest one stormy evening and is found by a ranger. When Ben pitches in to help his new friend Peter in the woodshed, he discovers that he may have met his match. Will Peter make Ben's woodshed wishes come true?
Add to your Goodreads WANT TO READ shelf HERE!
Ready for the individual covers? Okay, here we go . . .
Let's meet the authors of these novellas!
N.L. Leeks:
N.L. Leeks lives in England with her fiancé, whom she has been with since the age of eighteen. She first began writing when she was a child. Her friends, Matt and Lou, helped her reignite that passion as an adult, and her journey into writing began once more.
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Jude Ouvrard:
Jude was born and raised in a small village named Lacolle. She now lives in Montreal, Canada. She is the proud mother of a beautiful four year old son, and has spent the last twelve years with her partner, Cedric.
French is her native language, but she prefers to write in her second language, English.Besides working full time for a Title Insurance Company and being a mother, Jude has a passion for books, both reading and writing them.
She is currently working on a novel called Body, Ink, and Soul. Coming soon!
Also by Jude Ouvrard:Under the Sun, Heat Wave: Volume Two
Website/Blog I Twitter @judeouvrard I wTwitter @authorjude_oFacebook I Goodreads I Pinterest I About.meAmazon I Barnes & Noble
K.L. Platt:
K. L. Platt lives with her family in the Devonshire countryside in the UK. She is a nanny, but her dream is to be a full time author. She can’t remember a time when she didn’t have a pencil, pen, or book in her hand. It was, however, the likes of J K Rowling and Stephenie Meyer that gave her the fire to drive herself to where she is today.Always encouraged to follow her dream as a child by her own parents and grandparents, her grandma told her, “If you believe you can do it, then you can.” Her uncle was also a writer but sadly never got to have any of his stories published.
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M.C. Rayne:
M. C. Rayne got into writing after the passing of his mother, and used it as an outlet to get through the difficult time. He never really thought about becoming an author, but since putting pen to paper he has never looked back
Currently he lives in Leeds with his two best friends Dae and Pete, and his guinea pig, Bean. He spends a lot of time reading and writing, and far too much time procrastination online.
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C.W. Stevens:
C.W. Stevens lives in the United States, in the Midwest, where the winters are cold and icy, and the summers are disgustingly hot and humid. Spring and fall are her favorite times of the year.Reading is one of her favorite pastimes.
She enjoys writing and loves meeting new people along the way. Music and Abstract are a couple of her favorite Arts. She enjoys the challenge of trying to unlock the meaning of what the artist is trying to express. She enjoys solitude and hates crowds.
C. W. has two, grown sons, and loves spending time with her three grandchildren. Life is good!
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N. Wood:
N. Wood is a budding young author living in Cornwall, United Kingdom. She developed an interest in writing when her poetry was first published at the age of nine. Since then, she has moved onto writing both short stories and novels focusing on gay romantic themes.
Also by N. Wood:
La CalaWaves Of Healing
Coming Soon from Renaissance Romance Publishing:Take A Gamble, Second Edition, on November 12, 2013.
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September 21, 2013
Saturday Surprise!
This is going to be a quick post, but a necessary one. I know I have been kind of quiet and absent the last few weeks. Part of that has been dealing with intermittent internet issues, which have hopefully been resolved by trading out the router with the cable company, but I've also been making some big changes behind the scenes.
I can't go into detail just yet, but I'll have a big announcement next month! Any bloggers who are interested in helping me spread the news when the time comes, I'd GREATLY appreciate your participation. The sign up form is below:
Lend a Hand!
Now, back to that intermittent internet issue . . .Do y'all have ANY idea how AMAZING it was to finally get reconnected and discover that I'd been targeted by the mighty
!!!!!!!!!!!!!
super cool indeed
Thanks to everyone that stopped by for a visit yesterday!
