Kay LaLone's Blog, page 19

My Review Of A Pair Of Docks

About the BookTitle: A Pair of Docks (Derivatives of Displacement, Book #1) | Author: Jennifer Ellis | Publication Date: Dec. 8, 2013 | Publisher: Moonbird Press | Number of pages: 308 | Recommended age: 10+Summary: Fourteen-year-old Abbey Sinclair likes to spend her afternoons in the physics lab learning about momentum and gravitational pull. But her practical scientific mind is put to the test when her older brother, Simon, discovers a mysterious path of stones that allows them, along with Abbey’s twin, Caleb, to travel back and forth between their world and what appears to be…the future. Unfortunately, they’re not the only ones who know about the stones, and they soon realize their lives are in danger from a man known only as Mantis. Abbey, Caleb, and Simon must follow a twisting trail of clues that will lead them from their autistic neighbor, Mark, to a strange professor who claims to know the rules of the stones, and to multiple futures—some of whose inhabitants don’t want to stay put. It will take all of Abbey’s analytical skills to unravel the secrets of the stones, uncover the threads that tie the futures together, thwart Mantis’s plan, and, most importantly, keep her family alive—now and in the future. A Pair of Docks explores Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, the meaning of time, the potential for parallel universes, and the boundary between science and witchcraft. It is the first novel in the Derivatives of Displacement series.Amazon | Goodreads
My Review:  I loved this book. This book is full of mystery, adventure, and danger. Abbey and Caleb follow their older brother Simon through a magical doorway that leads them to another world. Where is this world? Are they in danger? Abbey, Caleb, and Simon go on a wild journey to discover the answers. 
The Buzz About the Book“A wonderfully fun story with great character development (the kids were great!). I enjoyed this book actually more than A Wrinkle In Time (I always felt like Madeleine L’Engle didn’t really like her male characters).” ~ 5 Star Review, JRM “avid reader”, Amazon“Let me say upfront that I stayed up nearly all night reading this book…yes, it’s that good. I was swept up with the characters and their lives and could not put the book down until I had finished it.” ~ 5 Star Review, Judith M., Goodreads“I was drawn into the story almost immediately and found myself eagerly awaiting getting back to it every night. The writing is skillfully done and the characters come alive with dialogue that is real and natural. If you liked Harry Potter you will love this.” ~ 5 Star Review, KindledSynapse, Amazon
About the Author: Jennifer EllisJennifer Ellis lives in the mountains of British Columbia, Canada with her husband, two sons and geriatric cat. She can generally be found writing, running, spending too much time on skis, and working as an environmental researcher. She writes science fiction, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic fiction for kids and adults. You can subscribe to her blog for the latest book news and industry insights at www.jenniferellis.ca.Website | Author Blog | Twitter | Google+ | Goodreads

Phase One: Identify by Rose Wynters

Virtual Book Tour Dates: 12/30/14 – 1/13/15
Genres: Young Adult Romance, Horror, Zombies, Science Fiction
Series: Territory of the Dead
Tour Promo: All books in this series are $.99!
Available free with Kindle Unlimited.





Blurb:
Eighteen-year-old Tabitha Alexander had just graduated from high school when the dead invaded her small town of Pleasant, Louisiana. Working as a checkout girl in the only grocery store in town, she barely made it out with her life.
But the night was only beginning.
What started out as a group of three grows, as they are joined by the few that are still alive. New bonds are formed as old ones die, and Tabitha suddenly finds that the guy she’s always wanted might just want her back.
The timing couldn’t be worse, though. The zombies in Pleasant are smart, with an awareness that’s horrifying. And when the zombies discover the house full of survivors, those inside realize that the walls aren’t strong enough to keep them out.
All hope is lost. Or is it? Salvation comes in the form of a mysterious man, with a pair of steely-gray eyes and an arsenal to match. He rescues them, but at what cost? Kellan can’t seem to keep his otherworldly eyes off of her.
She’s no match for him. She knows this. Yet, he intrigues her… and Tabitha knows it’s the most dangerous reaction of all.

Excerpt:
I exhaled deeply as I finished scanning the last coupon. The woman gave me a sharp look of annoyance, as if I had no room for complaint. Really, what did she expect? Was I supposed to grovel and thank her for allowing me the honor of scanning her precious coupons ten minutes before closing time?
Apparently so. “You know, young lady, it wouldn’t hurt you to smile at your customers and thank them when they offer you their coupons. I don’t think I’ve ever had such poor customer service. I don’t have to shop here, especially with this kind of attitude.” She was working herself up into a rage, her expression full of self-righteous indignation.
I didn’t reply, but instead pushed the total button. Some of the customers in line groaned, while others shifted in impatience. They really didn’t want to be further delayed by her rant. She slammed a hundred dollar bill down on the counter. “Where is your manager? I want to speak with him now.”
I pointed towards Jim, as he straightened his shoulders and attempted to look professional. I could only imagine the holier-than-thou attitude he would have as he sympathetically agreed with her. Around here, I could never do anything right, or so it seemed.
I didn’t see anyone else standing around, though, willing to put up with his crap. If I didn’t need the money so badly, I’d walk out the door faster than he could blink. I was tired of the humiliation and tired of being blamed for the lines, just because he was too tight to hire on adequate staff.
I was silent as I quickly made her change. What could any person say? She was mad due to reasons of her own, something that really didn’t concern me. With one last glare, she huffed and moved on in his direction. She never made it, though.
It would have been worth the complaint and subsequent chewing out I would have received, if the events of the night just wouldn’t have happened. I would later look back on it and pray that things had ended differently. You can’t change events that are completely out of your control, though.
Even so, anything would have been preferable to that one moment when you find your reality has just been blown to pieces and would never be the same again. That’s assuming you live to survive it.
She was halfway to Jim, her teased hairdo bouncing, when it happened. A loud, panicked scream tore through the night, originating somewhere from the parking lot in front of the store. Even through the thick glass, we could hear it loudly. It sounded like someone was being murdered. I immediately stopped scanning, turning in an attempt to see what was happening.
A body slammed against the glass, his face and palms pressed to the surface. It was a horrid sight. His pupils were red and crazed, his face extremely pale and dirty. Dark red blood was smeared across his cheeks and chin. The man stood still for a moment, just watching us with his crazy eyes. Something reanimated him. He slid his palms down the clear, clean glass, leaving a trail of bloody streaks.

My Review:  I loved this book. Gripping. Intense. Emotional. Tabitha life is turned upside down when the zombie apocalypse happens. Now she must learn to survive. 


Buy Link:
Amazon 

About the Author:
Rose Wynters resides in the southern portion of the USA. When not writing, she enjoys traveling, camping, and meeting new people.

Connect With The Author:
Website
Facebook
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Giveaway:
Win a $10 Amazon gift card! This giveaway will run 12/30/14 – 1/13/15. Open worldwide! Click here to enter the Rafflecopter.

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My Review Of A Different Kind Of Safari

About the BookTitle: A Different Kind of Safari | Author: Helen C. Hipp | Publication Date: March 19, 2013 | Publisher: A Different Kind of Safari LLC | Pages: 32 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 10
Summary: What do you need to feel happy about being different? Based loosely on real life experiences, this heartwarming and powerful book illustrates how self-awareness, and courage help a young boy named Raymond learn the difference between seeing things as they appear to be and seeing things as they are. Feeling “different and lonely” Raymond befriends a hippo while on Safari in Africa. Unlike other grey hippos, this hippo is pink. Ray is soon carried into a world beyond labels and challenging assumptions. You will never guess what happens next!Amazon (Hardcover) | Audible (Audiobook) | Barnes and Noble
My Review:  Ray is visiting Africa from a place far away. He talks to a talking hippo named Rosie. Rosie takes Ray on a safari down the river. Ray learns about himself and learns to see things in a new way. Entertaining. Creative. 
The Inspiration Behind the Story by Helen Hipp Inspired by real-life adventure, the story behind the story unfolded when I went on an African safari back in 2001. The trip was led by my father whose dream was to share the safari experience with his family. Little did I know that this trip was going to incite me to write a children’s adventure book but it did.The storyline made it appearance when my family spotted a pod of hippos and one was pink! My son Ray fourteen at the time immediately named her “Rosie”. Curious and wanting to learn more about this hippo we asked the guide many questions about hippos and hippo behavior. Specifically I wanted to know why the pink hippo stood so far outside of her pod. The familiarity of the guides answer took me by surprise, he explained that “Rosie” was tolerated but not necessarily accepted by the herd because of her differences. As a parent of a child with special needs I immediately felt a strong affiliation with Rosie’s situation as did my son Ray who has experienced his own challenges with acceptance. Inspired, I decided to share the story with the world by weaving them into a children’s adventure book that celebrates differences. The book is entitled “A Different Kind of Safari”. Find out what you can learn from Rosie the pink hippo, and how you can share those lessons with the children in your life.
Sneak Peek
The Buzz About the Book“There are several layers to this book as well as significant depth in the underlying messages and lessons. There are many potential points for discussion including Asperger’s syndrome, fear, self-acceptance, tolerance, and more. I highly recommend this great book to children ages 5 to 10.” ~ Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews“A timeless book, that will speak to everyone. To be enjoyed over and over again! A fun, yet very thought provoking story for all ages. If books had a satisfaction guarantee, this one would be on the top of the list. ” ~ 5 Star Review, Adden B. Chrystie, Amazon“A Different Kind of Safari is truly a different kind of children’s book! The beautiful artwork bring a very special story to life and I am excited the book is now available in audio format for an added bonus while driving kids around town! I particularly love the message of the book, which teaches us to celebrate our unique differences through Rosie the Pink Hippo rather than allow them to keep us from exploring our potentials. I highly recommend this book to all parents and special needs educators in particular. Thank you for writing this wonderful story!” ~ 5 Star Review, missladyjane, Barnes and Noble“I really enjoyed this book. The illustrations were beautiful. I found this book to be very interesting and it was written from real life experiences. A Different Kind of Safari draws you in along with Ray on his journey to find his happiness and the answers to his questions. I recommend this book to children that are of grade school age but yet many younger children may enjoy the illustrations.” ~ 5 Star Review, Whittle House, Goodreads“The book has a great story. The illustrations are amazing!!!!! Get this book! All children from the young to the old will love this book. ” ~ 5 Star Review, Mel, Amazon“A Different Kind of Safari is not only a good book, but a great story! It is not only for caregivers, teachers and parents, but for anyone who has ever felt out of place. A pink hippo named “Rosie” and her friend “Ray” take a journey and explore their similarities and differences on the river of life. Self- acceptance and the acceptance of others is exquisitely conveyed in a fresh, FUN way through this sweet tail. It is a prize for all libraries!” ~ 5 Star Review, Anna Wood, Barnes and Noble
About the Author: Helen C. HippHelen Hipp’s experience raising a special needs child led her to an M.A. in clinical psychology and certification as a life coach. She began her career as a psychotherapist to help people find answers for their life problems. Her work eventually evolved into a coaching practice,  WithinU Life Coaching , focusing on individuals with special needs and their families. Helen uses her 13+ years of counseling experience and 20+ years’ experience as a successful advocate for individuals with special needs by helping them reveal their innate ability to solve difficult situations. Her debut book ” A Different Kind of Safari ” puts into words the essence of Helen’s teachings addressing the many questions life asks by offering up lighthearted, ever-changing perspectives that transform personal challenges into opportunities.For more information, visit the books official website and to see a picture of the real Rosie the real life pink hippo that inspired this story, go to www.adifferentkindofsafari.comWebsite | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

My Review Of Billy And Monster's Golden Christmas

About the BookTitle: Billy and Monster’s Golden Christmas * Author: David Chuka * Illustrator:  Renato Capasso * Publication Date: November 25, 2014 * Publisher: Pen-n-a-Pad Publishing * Recommended Age: 3 to 8Summary: They’re back!Discover what new adventures Billy and Monster get up to in the latest episode in this exciting series.It’s almost Christmas and Billy’s looking forward to his present from Uncle Leland from England. On Christmas day, Billy isn’t too excited when Uncle Leland gives him a golden pen but gives Cousin Bob a big monster truck. How could Uncle Leland do this to him? Billy’s not a happy bunny and his ingratitude makes Uncle Leland sad and his Dad mad.  A game of hide and seeks plunges Billy into a world filled with snow, happy monsters and houses made of chocolate.You will love reading this story to your loved ones as they get to learn the most important thing about this special holiday season. Expect funny illustrations, laugh out loud moments and touching moments in this funny book for kids.Amazon | Goodreads
My Review:  Billy tells what he likes about Christmas. His favorite is a gift he gets from Uncle Laland, but this year he doesn't like his gift. The monsters teach Billy a lesson. Entertaining story to teach children to be thankful. 
Book Preview
About the Author: David ChukaDavid Chuka lives in London with his lovely wife and two adorable children. His family are usually the first people to hear his funny and quirky tales. He was inspired to write his first book,  ‘If You See a Doctor ‘ after he struggled to find a book for his daughter who was a beginner reader.He’s gone on to write more books including the popular ‘ Billy and Monster ‘ series, a funny set of books about a little boy and his Monster who get into all sorts of funny situations and learn about moderation, friendship, self control, bravery etc. Young children can relate to Billy and you’ll love sharing his adventures with your children, grandchildren and loved ones.As a father himself, he has parents at heart when he writes. He recognizes that bedtime has to be one of the best parts of the day for parents and grandparents as it gives them the opportunity to bond with their little ones. He believes you’ll enjoy sharing his stories with your loved ones at bedtime.In David Chuka’s books, you can stay rest assured that quality and captivating images will always complement the story to ensure your loved ones are spell-bound as you read to them. Beginner readers will also enjoy discovering new words as they read his books.He would like to keep you updated on what he’s working on and any giveaways he currenty has on offer. Please subscribe to his newsletter at www.davidchuka.com and you’ll get a FREE Coloring and Activity bookfor your loved ones.Make sure to watch the video trailers for his most popular books on this Amazon Page and you’ll get a little taste of why his books have garnered more than 300 glowing reviews.He has so many stories to tell and can’t wait to share them with you and your loved ones.Website | Twitter | Facebook | GoodreadsGoogle+ | Pinterest | Amazon Author Page

My Review Of John Bloom And The Victory Garden

About the BookTitle: John Bloom and the Garden of Victory | Author: Leigh Shearin | Publication Date: October 27, 2014 |Publisher: Independent | Pages: 195 | Recommended Ages: 9+
Book Summary:  John Bloom and the Victory Garden is the rollicking tale of 3 boys at the dawn of America’s involvement in WWII. John Bloom, and his best friends Joe and Chewie live, play, and get into adventures in 1940’s era Appleside, NJ. Because children are generally joyful and tend to put more importance on the goings-on of their own worlds than those of grown-ups, the events of the war are woven into the boy’s daily lives. Along the way, a bitter and cynical old man is drawn into their hijinks, and contributes his own joy to the lives of these 3.Chapter One invites the reader to join John and his friends in Appleside, NJ on the afternoon of December 6th, 1941. Through newspaper headlines and radio bulletins, the boys learn about the incredible events of the war- beginning with the attack on Hawaii by the Empire of Japan. As the story moves along, John and his friends learn that everyone- not just soldiers- can make a difference. They learn that commitment leads to ultimate success and that taking a seemingly insurmountable task one step at a time will make that task simple. John, Joe and Chewie learn about where their food comes from, and how important good food is to the Allies overseas.John Bloom and the Victory Garden is not just a story of Homefront USA during WWII. Its about faith, endurance and sturdy values that transcend time and cultural differences. It’s about accepting tough times, struggle and adversity and overcoming them anyway. It’s about seeing the humor in life, and helping others to see the humor too.But mostly, they just have a gut-busting great time! Amazon | Goodreads  My Review:  I loved this book. The book takes place during WWII. Three young boys deal with America going to war. Humor, friendship, and faith is woven into the story making it an entertaining way to learn history. Great for boys ages 9 - 14. About the Author: Leigh Shearin I am a Writer, Chef, Baker and Farmer.I earned a B.A. in Studio Art from Maryville College in Maryville, TN, and worked as a Graphic Artist and Photographer before earning my A.A.S in Culinary Art. I’ve worked as a Chef, Baker and Culinary Art Instructor. Most recently, my husband and I have bought rural land and are developing our own small, sustainable farm, Winter’Rest Farm in north Central New York. Through it all, I’ve written stories and poems, some published, some tucked away. The older I get, the more the stories stalk me, so I hope to move into full-time writing in the very near future.Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

My Review Of WhipEye

About the BookTitle: WhipEye (WhipEye Chronicles Book #1) | Author: Geoffrey Saign | Year published: June 20, 2014 |Publisher: KiraKu Press | Number of pages: 301 | Recommended age: 9+Summary: Can a girl grieving her mother, a boy missing his father, and a thousand-year-old wise-cracking parrot save two worlds? Samantha and her neighbor, Jake, have no idea that Samantha’s best friend, a parrot named Charlie, is a thousand years old. Charlie is also at the center of a secret battle between magical creatures and an ancient, evil man. When Charlie asks Samantha and Jake to protect him, they are chased by monsters from both sides. To save Charlie, and two worlds, Samantha and Jake have twenty-four hours to figure out how to use the supernatural staff, WhipEye, and find the courage to confront what they fear most.Amazon |  Barnes & Noble |  iTunes  |  Goodreads
My Review:  I loved this book. From the very beginning the author draws the reader in. Sam saves Charlie a talking parrot from Magar. With the use of whipeye a staff with magical powers, Sam is set on a wild journey to save the world. Fun characters that the reader can connect with. Good book for ages 9 - 14. 
Book Preview
The Buzz About the Book“The story itself is pure genius.” ~ 5-star Review, LitPick“This was amazing… I couldn’t put it down. ~ Erik, This Kid Reviews Books“As an avid reader of all kinds of books, I often find many fantasy books sloppily written, as though the genre is the dumping ground of less talented writers. So imagine my delight and surprise when right at the get-go–from the first page onwards–`WhipEye’ demolished my prejudice and reminded me that every once in a while, you find that shiny needle in the proverbial haystack.” ~ 5 Star Review, Meghan, Amazon“Attention to detail,best of all fleshed out and well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well illustrated scenes that actually make you feel like you are right there in the story -or at least wish you were – and that’s something I really look for in a good book. “ ~ 5 Star Review, Tali, Amazon“`Whipeye’ by Geoffrey Saign is a wonderfully written fantasy story that combines elements of fantasy and magic. The author has created a fantastical world that is vividly imagined with magical creatures and strange but colorful characters…What really makes this story engaging are the likeable characters that you can’t help but root for. The story may be about an adventure that involves magic and supernatural elements, but it’s also about friendship and discovering one’s strength when it’s needed the most. ” ~ 5 Star Review, Portia A., Amazon“Whipeye is a thrilling magical adventure with surprises at every turn, a story that deserves to be read.”~ Laurisa White Reyes, Editor-in-Chief of Middle Shelf Magazine and author of The Celestine Chronicles series“Simply put…it’s a creative story that draws you in from the beginning. The twists and turns, the interesting characters and surprises keep you wanting to turn the next page. This walk into a fantasy serves as a nice mini-vacation without having to go anywhere or plan anything. I look forward to the next book. Well done. ” ~ 5 Star Review, Michael S., Amazon
About the Author: Geoffrey SaignGeoffrey Saign can often be found looking for interesting critters, and magic, while swimming, snorkeling, sailing, or hiking in the woods. His passion for nature and wildlife led to his nationally endorsed book,  Green Essentials: What You Need to Know About the Environment , as well as his books  African Cats  and  Great Apes . He has a background in biology, assisted in field research with hummingbirds and humpback whales, and sailed as far away as Australia. With more than twenty years of experience working in special education, he has taught adults and children everything from sailing to novel writing. He lives in St. Paul, Minnesota.Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads * Google+ * Pinterest

My Review Of Fearless Joe Dearborne

About the BookTitle: Fearless Joe Dearborne | Author: Lisa Whitney Mitchell | Publication Date: July 11, 2014 | Publisher:Independent | Pages: 198 | Recommended Ages: 8+
Summary: Some might say he’s courageous, while others would say he’s daring, maybe even a little crazy. But when Joe Dearborne risked his life and ran into a burning building to save a puppy, the local newspaper referred to him as “fearless”—and that’s a pretty big title for a sixth-grader to live up to.Plus, Joe already has plenty else to worry about. After other daring feats in the past, Joe promised his father he wouldn’t do anything dangerous again, and, alas, he’s just broken that promise.But whatever trouble he expects to get into with his father, and despite the dangers he’s triumphed over in the past, nothing could prepare Joe for what he’s about to encounter when a cold, bitterness creeps into his home.A mysterious and peculiar woman named Mrs. Chill has just been hired to care for Joe while his father is away on business. In no time, however, Joe discovers that she’s up to more than cooking and cleaning, and she has plans to destroy his family. Joe’s effort to save them results in perilous, sometimes humorous, encounters, and leads him on a journey through the threatening wilderness where he faces his greatest challenge yet.
The Buzz About the Book“Young readers…will be captivated by the tightly written, suspenseful story featuring a likable main character and an engaging villain. Mitchell creates scenarios that are exciting, believable and age-appropriate; Joe goes on adventures, such as a night in the woods with a coyote, and experiences a budding romance with an equally courageous girl named Meg Darcy. The mystery of Mrs. Chill’s true motives, along with the story’s apparently paranormal elements, will make it hard for youngsters to stop reading.  A unique, engaging chapter-book adventure.” ~ Kirkus Reviews“Young and old will root for Joe as he transforms from fearless to brave, and Mitchell should be applauded for an entertaining debut novel.” ~ Foreward Reviews (Five Stars out of Five)
About the Author: Lisa Whitney MitchellLisa Whitney Mitchell lives in Florida with her husband, two sons, and their dog. When she’s not writing, she practices law.  Fearless Joe Dearborne  is her first novel. My Review:  I loved this book Joe is fearless until he gets bit by a poisonous snake and almost dies. Now he's ot so fearless. But he learns what it is like to be brave. Great book for boys ages 9 - 12.   

Beenie's Search Book Blast

About the BookTitle: Beenie's Search | Author: J.J. Schousboe | Publication Date: March 20, 2014 | Publisher: Friesen Press | Pages: 48 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8 Book Description: Join Beenie, the friendly bear, as he searches for his family after hibernating for the long winter. Spring arrives and Beenie discovers that he is all alone. In search of food, friends and his family, Beenie gets side tracked and lost. When he remembers what he was taught by his parents, he overcomes his fears and sets off in the right direction. Beenie's Search teaches young readers the importance of listening and following directions as they join Beenie in his adventure.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Friesen PressJ J Schousboe Designs | Google Play | Goodreads 
About the Author: J.J. SchousboeJJ Schousboe migrated from the lovely island of Trinidad, in the Caribbean. She has been writing poems as a teenager and began writing stories for her children. A preschool teacher since 2007, JJ currently lives in Largo, Florida.
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* $25 Book Blast Giveaway * Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash (winner's choice) Contest closes: January 2, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open to: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, J.J. Schousboe and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Spell In Provence By Marie Laval

 A SPELL IN PROVENCE

Blurb
With few roots in England and having just lost her job, Amy Carter decides to give up on home and start a new life in France, spending her redundancy package turning an overgrown Provençal farmhouse, Bellefontaine, into a successful hotel. Though she has big plans for her new home, none of them involves falling in love – least of all with Fabien Coste, the handsome but arrogant owner of a nearby château.  As romance blossoms, eerie and strange happenings in Bellefontaine hint at a dark mystery of the Provençal countryside which dates back many centuries and holds an entanglement between the ladies of Bellefontaine and the ducs de Coste at its centre. As Amy works to unravel the mystery, she begins to wonder if it may not just be her heart at risk, but her life too.
See more at: http://www.accentpress.co.uk/Book/134...
Excerpt
Shivering in the cold breeze despite her shawl, Amy joined the guests lining up to be greeted by Fabien, who in true lord of the manor style, stood tall and imposing at the top of the steps, with torches burning on either side of him.             He might wear a black dining suit and a crisp white shirt instead of a suit of armour, but there was something untamed, fundamentally uncivilized and proprietary about the way he surveyed the crowd – as if he truly owned everything and everyone, like Frédéric had said, and Amy was seized by an irresistible, irrational and overwhelming urge to flee. She didn’t want to speak to Fabien Coste, didn’t want to put up with his arrogant ways. He could keep his fancy chateau, his contacts and glamorous guests, she didn’t need him. She would walk home. It wasn’t that far.             She was about to step aside when he looked down and their gaze met. Shadows danced on his face. The torches hissed in the breeze, their flames shooting high in the air and reflecting in his green eyes, giving them a deep, dangerous glow. For the space of a heartbeat, the noise of conversations around her became distant and fuzzy, and all she could see was him.             He walked down, took her hand and lifted it to his lips. Even though his mouth barely touched her skin, a flash of heat reverberated through her body.             ‘Mademoiselle Carter – Amy, you’re here at last.’             It was the first time he’d spoken her first name. He made it sound French, sensual and incredibly romantic. Aimée. Beloved.             ‘Shall I escort you inside and introduce you to a few people?’             Panic made her heart flutter and turned her brain to mush.             ‘Well, it’s just that …’             He arched a dark eyebrow, looked down, and smiled as if he knew exactly what she was feeling.             ‘You’re here now. You might as well make the most of it.’ Marie Laval

Originally from Lyon in France, Marie Laval studied History and Law at university there before moving to Lancashire in England where she worked in a variety of jobs, from PA in a busy university department to teacher in adult education and secondary schools. Writing, however, was always her passion, and she spends most of her free time dreaming up stories. A vivid imagination, an intimate knowledge of her native France as well as her love of historical research help her create compelling historical and contemporary romance novels. She has published two historical romances with MuseitUp Publishing, ANGEL HEART and THE LION'S EMBRACE.

The Heroes of the Himalayas Book Blast

BOOK SALE: You can grab a copy of Book 1, "Ghost Leopard" for 99 cents from Amazon between December 18 and 24, 2014. PURCHASE NOW!
About the BooksMove over Percy Jackson. Find out what everybody is talking about!Have you ever gotten hopelessly lost in a strange land? Talked to an elephant? Ridden a magic carpet? Been jailed by an angry parrot? And discovered that you have the power to change the world?Zoe & Zak hadn’t either. But that was before their lives were turned upside down by a mysterious creature called the Ghost Leopard. Now, they find themselves attending a strange school high in the Himalayan foothills, where nothing is what it seems and anything is possible. The Zoe & Zak Adventures contains the first three full books of the middle grade fantasy adventure series, where two semi-normal kids begin to live absolutely extraordinary lives. In Book One, The Ghost Leopard, Zoe & Zak take their first trip to India where they learn that they’ve been chosen to protect a mythical creature from a terrible fate. In Book Two, The Yogi’s Curse, Zoe & Zak are back in India, this time to attend Moonstock Academy, a strange and sometimes frightening boarding school where weird events seem to occur on a regular basis. And in Book Three, The Tiger Temple, Zoe & Zak take on their second semester at Moonstock and their most terrifying challenge yet. If you love to laugh out loud, if you like adventure, and if you’re dying to go on the wildest ride on this side of the Himalayas, pick up the Zoe & Zak Adventures today. Now Available as a Compendium: The three book collection contains the complete text of first three books in the Zoe & Zak series. Together, these books are guaranteed to bring you to a magical world unlike any you’ve experienced before. Find out what everybody is talking about.  
Book 1: Zoe and Zak and The Ghost Leopard
The BuzzZoe & Zak and the Ghost Leopard BLOG TOUR"Love Love Love! This book had me from the first chapter. This book overflows with top-notch character development, culture, adventure, and FUN!" ~ Sunshine, Bubbles and Books"This is adventure with a capital ‘A’ and the kind that middle grade readers will love." ~ Word Magic: All About Books"Once Zoe and Zak are off on their adventure, the pace never lets up. There are constant dangers lurking all around them and they are pretty much constantly fighting for their lives. Throw in some really interesting mystical creatures and you have a recipe for a great MG novel!!" ~ Best Kids' ReadsAmazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook) 
Book 2: Zoe & Zak and the Yogi's Curse
The BuzzZoe & Zak and the Yogi's Curse BLOG TOUR"Lars Guignard keeps up the pace with this second installment in the Zoe and Zak Adventure seri es. I recommend this series to tweens and teens who love a great adventure steeped with magic and mysticism. Ages 8+." ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews"Fantasy, action, adventure, wonderful characters and some fun mysteries has me hooked... 5 Stars!" ~ Brooke BlogsI loved the faster pace of this second book. Zoe & Zak's adventures kept me turning pages to see what was happening next. " ~ Carpinello's Writing PagesAmazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook) 
Book 3: Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple
The BuzzZoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple BLOG TOUR"Zoe and Zak’s adventure in the Tiger’s Temple nerve-wracking and enjoyable all at the same time! Magic flies high in this story. Guignard continues not only to entertain his young readers but also to educate them on the exotic culture of India. Readers learn about everything from food to mythology. I love all the magic and mystery in his books, and you can’t help but love Zoe and Zak with their self-destructive behavior." ~ Jump Into a Book"The great thing about this book, besides the fun adventure, is the exposure kids will get to different cultures, mythologies, and ways of life." ~ Nik's Picks"Lars Guignard’s writing is easy to read and the story flows well and he has a great sense of humor. Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple is another must read for readers of all ages. I can’t wait for more books in the Zoe & Zak series! " ~ Bound 4 EscapeAmazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook) 
Purchase all Three!
PURCHASE: Amazon (Kindle) 
About The Author: Lars Guignard[caption id="attachment_14417" align="alignleft" width="154"] Lars Guignard[/caption] Prior to writing novels, Lars Guignard wrote for film and television. As a teenager he attended boarding school in the Indian Himalayas and his experiences there provided the inspiration for the " Heroes of the Himalayas " series which now include: Zoe & Zak and the Ghost Leopard , Zoe & Zak and the Yogi’s Curse , and Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple . He lives in the Pacific Northwest where he dodges bears and cougars while hiking & skiing the magnificent Coast Mountain Range. For news about new releases, please join his email list by contacting the author: Zoe&ZakAdventures@gmail.com
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* $25 Book Blast Giveaway * Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash (winner's choice) Contest closes: January 1, 11:59 pm, 2015 Open to: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Lars Guignard and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway