Andrea Smith's Blog, page 6
May 12, 2015
Black Balled!! Awesome Release Week!
Hope you all have a chance to hit some of the blog stops in the next couple of weeks!
Here are the links to today's stops!
Christy Herself: http://www.christyherself.me/2015/05/...
Foxlutely Books: http://foxylutely.blogspot.co.uk/?zx=...
Jolanda Loves To Read: http://jolandaloves2read.blogspot.nl/...
Nessa's Book Reviews: https://nessabookreviews.wordpress.com/
Relentless Book Chicks: https://www.facebook.com/relentlessbo...
DON'T FORGET TO ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $50 GIFT CARD!
Here are the links to today's stops!
Christy Herself: http://www.christyherself.me/2015/05/...
Foxlutely Books: http://foxylutely.blogspot.co.uk/?zx=...
Jolanda Loves To Read: http://jolandaloves2read.blogspot.nl/...
Nessa's Book Reviews: https://nessabookreviews.wordpress.com/
Relentless Book Chicks: https://www.facebook.com/relentlessbo...
DON'T FORGET TO ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $50 GIFT CARD!
May 11, 2015
ELLE KENNEDY!!! YES!! NYT BEST-SELLING AUTHOR!!
Congrats, Elle!! NYT Best-Selling New Adult author!!!
May 7, 2015
ELLE KENNEDY!! CONGRATS!!
Congratulations Elle Kennedy!! 'The Mistake' is Number 23 on USA Today Bestseller's List! So well-deserved!! You write N/A like no other!!!!
May 6, 2015
#1 HOT NEW RELEASES!!! WHOOO-HOOOOO!
Black Balled is Numero Uno on Amazon's Hot New Releases!!!
May 5, 2015
BLACK BALLED #5 ON AMAZON!!!
Whooo-hooo!!
Can Eva and I do a happy dance? At this moment in time, Black Balled is at #5 in this Amazon Category!!
Thanks everyone!!! We couldn't have done it without y'all!!
Can Eva and I do a happy dance? At this moment in time, Black Balled is at #5 in this Amazon Category!!
Thanks everyone!!! We couldn't have done it without y'all!!
5-STAR REVIEW - BLACK BALLED
Check out Terry's review of Black Balled on
Books 'N Cozy Spots Book Reviews!!
You're gonna love the GIFS!!!
http://talon-ps.com/books-n-cozy-spot...
Books 'N Cozy Spots Book Reviews!!
You're gonna love the GIFS!!!
http://talon-ps.com/books-n-cozy-spot...
May 1, 2015
This REVIEW totally blew me away!!
OMG!! With all of the negative press "Black Balled" has received pre-release, my day was MADE today by this blogger's review. Yeah, SHE READ if folks...is that not epic??
Here's the part I totally fucking loved:
"When I first received the ARC, I was a bit taken by the title, I hadn't read the synopsis I only knew it was M/M (my review manager knows I have a soft spot for these books), anyway, as I began to read, I was taken aback by the storyline.
In a nut shell the book evolves around two MC's, Babu and L.Blackburn. One in turn a prominent reviewer, the other an Indie Author, (yes you already know where this is going). What happens when an upcoming Author is suddenly terribly criticised claiming he had broken a big "cardinal rule" within the writing world. When someone has such a strong influence with readers, do readers tend to believe everything its said forgetting to make their own minds? Sadly yes, this is what happens. The actual word is "schadenfreude", a bit of morose delectation. It is "the feeling of joy or pleasure when one sees another fail or suffer misfortune". That is how this story begins. Are you enthralled? Well that is just how these two authors began what I can only describe as a brilliantly crafted story. “That’s how stories happen — with a turning point, an unexpected twist. There’s only one kind of happiness, but misfortune comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s like Tolstoy said. Happiness is an allegory, unhappiness a story.”
--------------------------------------
Is this not insightful and on target? Damn straight! So, I thank Isa for saying "the great unsaid." It's so fucking EASY to follow the crowd, isn't it? Hell, I've done it and I admit it, though truthfully? I was in Junior High School the last time I did so, but I realize through Life 101 that unfortunately, bullies are truly here to stay. I applaud those that rise ABOVE the bullying, and take an UNPOPULAR stand because it IS their right to do so. And if ISA had hated this book? Well, guess what? She would've said so and we would still be having this conversation - and I would feel no differently. Yes. That's the truth. And do you know why? Because she would have hated this book for WHAT IT WAS - and NOT what other people (i.e. the bullies) SAID THAT it was.
That's all!
Here's the part I totally fucking loved:
"When I first received the ARC, I was a bit taken by the title, I hadn't read the synopsis I only knew it was M/M (my review manager knows I have a soft spot for these books), anyway, as I began to read, I was taken aback by the storyline.
In a nut shell the book evolves around two MC's, Babu and L.Blackburn. One in turn a prominent reviewer, the other an Indie Author, (yes you already know where this is going). What happens when an upcoming Author is suddenly terribly criticised claiming he had broken a big "cardinal rule" within the writing world. When someone has such a strong influence with readers, do readers tend to believe everything its said forgetting to make their own minds? Sadly yes, this is what happens. The actual word is "schadenfreude", a bit of morose delectation. It is "the feeling of joy or pleasure when one sees another fail or suffer misfortune". That is how this story begins. Are you enthralled? Well that is just how these two authors began what I can only describe as a brilliantly crafted story. “That’s how stories happen — with a turning point, an unexpected twist. There’s only one kind of happiness, but misfortune comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s like Tolstoy said. Happiness is an allegory, unhappiness a story.”
--------------------------------------
Is this not insightful and on target? Damn straight! So, I thank Isa for saying "the great unsaid." It's so fucking EASY to follow the crowd, isn't it? Hell, I've done it and I admit it, though truthfully? I was in Junior High School the last time I did so, but I realize through Life 101 that unfortunately, bullies are truly here to stay. I applaud those that rise ABOVE the bullying, and take an UNPOPULAR stand because it IS their right to do so. And if ISA had hated this book? Well, guess what? She would've said so and we would still be having this conversation - and I would feel no differently. Yes. That's the truth. And do you know why? Because she would have hated this book for WHAT IT WAS - and NOT what other people (i.e. the bullies) SAID THAT it was.
That's all!
April 29, 2015
Let the VALID reviews speak! - Black Balled
Hi y'all. As we get closer to Black Balled's release. I want to POST some ARC reviews from those readers who actually read the book!! Hopefully, for those who are inclined to believe the false information as to this book's content and characters, this will shed some light on the
truth
.
So, today, we have a Blogger's ARC review that we are spotlighting. 5-Stars and here's why:
First, let me quote Larson Blackburn because his thought sums up perfectly my reading experience here :
« Holy mother of all that is... pleasure. »
I got the ARC of Black Balled, written by Andrea Smith and Eva LeNoir, in exchange of an honest review. It's a Romance M/M (a Romance involving two males) and the very first book of this genre I read. I wanted to let you know, before reading my review, that I am not used to reading M/M but since January, I promised myself to always read something different from the YA genre I started this blog with. Maybe it makes my review less sizeable or maybe it's more... unbiased, I let you decide !
So Black Balled is not the kind of novel I would have looked forward to read but, knowing how talented the authors are, I was intrigued and so I went reading the blurb. And I loved it so much that I couldn't miss on the opportunity to review it. And okay, I admit that I was super curious ! I loved that it was two points of view of two men, written by two women, I loved that it was about an author and a reviewer. Finally I loved that it sounded like nothing else I've ever read !
And the truth is... it was beyond everything I was expecting ! Though I knew it would be a good read, I wasn't prepared to love this book that much. I fell hard for these two main characters and their personal story(ies). Usually I have a favorite but this time I just can't decide which one I would love to meet most. There was something really appealing about this book and the feeling never left me while reading it. I devoured Black Balled as if it was a delicious croissant, right out of the oven ! Now, let me tell you why you will love it too !
The writing here is delightful, deep, compelling and delivers well developed, intense and endearing characters. I loved all the quiproquo of this story and enjoyed a rhythm both catchy and enticing : « just one more page » is not working here ! With this novel, you will laugh, feel, breathe as if you became a part of the scenes. And oh my gosh ! Should I tell you about all the sexcapades hidden in these pages ? Should I explain how hot, passionate, insightful and beautiful some passages were ? No, I guess I have to let you enjoy all of it when you will read Black Balled !
« Larson knows who he is and he makes no excuses or apologies for it. He wears his flaws just as proudly as he does his attributes, for all to see, and for everyone to accept or reject, as the case may be because it makes no difference to him. He is comfortable in his own skin. That is probably because Larson is genuine. He doesn't wear layers of facades that need to be ripped away in order to find his inner soul ; or his truth. He just puts it all out there without reservation. Not like me. »
Also, what makes this book so f***ing unforgettable and good is the characters. Right above, I told you I love them both a lot. But at first, I have to say I was completely on Larson's side ! He was so fun and strong: he knew what he wanted, how he felt and who he was. I loved that even his flaws made him look like someone endearing and interesting. I love him ! And just like Babu, he was a realistic and captivating character. Babu, the reviewer you would absolutely want to avoid, became slowly but then deeply interesting too. I loved hating him but then... I understood him and couldn't help myself from loving him too. I love that he was looking for himself and that his flaws kind of built him. His past and secrets, hidden in a drawer and right behind a high and dense wall, were revealed cleverly. And here Larson comes, giving him exactly what he needs and couldn't find and understand before. (As I'm writing this review, I keep smiling big time!)
« I can't wait to be his first. His last. His fucking only. » Larson.
Finally, I can't say too much about how the two of them went from a « I f***ing hate you ! » to a « I f***ing love you », passing by a « You're the one I desire and need ». I want you to get engrossed in the story the way I was. I just can tell you that Larson and Babu were completing each other, their love story was everything I expect from a Romance. Yeah, I giggled, I had my eyes wet and talked to myself out loud while I was reading. Fortunately, I was in my very cosy reading cave and not at the museum I work at.
Last thing you need to know : the ending ! No, I won't tell you anything (I hate spoilers!) but I can say it was one of the best I've ever read ! It felt right, realistic and satisfying. Again, you won't be disappointed !
Of course, this is a great review! We love it, but not everyone will love this book, because that is simply not possible.
So, today, we have a Blogger's ARC review that we are spotlighting. 5-Stars and here's why:
First, let me quote Larson Blackburn because his thought sums up perfectly my reading experience here :
« Holy mother of all that is... pleasure. »
I got the ARC of Black Balled, written by Andrea Smith and Eva LeNoir, in exchange of an honest review. It's a Romance M/M (a Romance involving two males) and the very first book of this genre I read. I wanted to let you know, before reading my review, that I am not used to reading M/M but since January, I promised myself to always read something different from the YA genre I started this blog with. Maybe it makes my review less sizeable or maybe it's more... unbiased, I let you decide !
So Black Balled is not the kind of novel I would have looked forward to read but, knowing how talented the authors are, I was intrigued and so I went reading the blurb. And I loved it so much that I couldn't miss on the opportunity to review it. And okay, I admit that I was super curious ! I loved that it was two points of view of two men, written by two women, I loved that it was about an author and a reviewer. Finally I loved that it sounded like nothing else I've ever read !
And the truth is... it was beyond everything I was expecting ! Though I knew it would be a good read, I wasn't prepared to love this book that much. I fell hard for these two main characters and their personal story(ies). Usually I have a favorite but this time I just can't decide which one I would love to meet most. There was something really appealing about this book and the feeling never left me while reading it. I devoured Black Balled as if it was a delicious croissant, right out of the oven ! Now, let me tell you why you will love it too !
The writing here is delightful, deep, compelling and delivers well developed, intense and endearing characters. I loved all the quiproquo of this story and enjoyed a rhythm both catchy and enticing : « just one more page » is not working here ! With this novel, you will laugh, feel, breathe as if you became a part of the scenes. And oh my gosh ! Should I tell you about all the sexcapades hidden in these pages ? Should I explain how hot, passionate, insightful and beautiful some passages were ? No, I guess I have to let you enjoy all of it when you will read Black Balled !
« Larson knows who he is and he makes no excuses or apologies for it. He wears his flaws just as proudly as he does his attributes, for all to see, and for everyone to accept or reject, as the case may be because it makes no difference to him. He is comfortable in his own skin. That is probably because Larson is genuine. He doesn't wear layers of facades that need to be ripped away in order to find his inner soul ; or his truth. He just puts it all out there without reservation. Not like me. »
Also, what makes this book so f***ing unforgettable and good is the characters. Right above, I told you I love them both a lot. But at first, I have to say I was completely on Larson's side ! He was so fun and strong: he knew what he wanted, how he felt and who he was. I loved that even his flaws made him look like someone endearing and interesting. I love him ! And just like Babu, he was a realistic and captivating character. Babu, the reviewer you would absolutely want to avoid, became slowly but then deeply interesting too. I loved hating him but then... I understood him and couldn't help myself from loving him too. I love that he was looking for himself and that his flaws kind of built him. His past and secrets, hidden in a drawer and right behind a high and dense wall, were revealed cleverly. And here Larson comes, giving him exactly what he needs and couldn't find and understand before. (As I'm writing this review, I keep smiling big time!)
« I can't wait to be his first. His last. His fucking only. » Larson.
Finally, I can't say too much about how the two of them went from a « I f***ing hate you ! » to a « I f***ing love you », passing by a « You're the one I desire and need ». I want you to get engrossed in the story the way I was. I just can tell you that Larson and Babu were completing each other, their love story was everything I expect from a Romance. Yeah, I giggled, I had my eyes wet and talked to myself out loud while I was reading. Fortunately, I was in my very cosy reading cave and not at the museum I work at.
Last thing you need to know : the ending ! No, I won't tell you anything (I hate spoilers!) but I can say it was one of the best I've ever read ! It felt right, realistic and satisfying. Again, you won't be disappointed !
Of course, this is a great review! We love it, but not everyone will love this book, because that is simply not possible.
Let the REVIEWS speak!
Hi y'all. As we get closer to Black Balled's release. I want to POST some ARC reviews from those readers who actually read the book!! Hopefully, for those who are
inclined
to believe the false information as to this book's content and characters, this will shed some light on the
truth.
Now, here's Ashley's review, and of course, every author loves a 5-star, but of course we know, that every review won't be a 5-star. However, we enjoy them while we can!
-------------------------------------------
REVIEW #1
Ashley S.'s review Apr 28, 15
5 of 5 stars
bookshelves: arc, 6-stars, favorites
Read from April 14 to 15, 2015, read count: 2
To me, Black Balled is a flawless read. From the amazing character development to the unique storyline, it hit all of my requirements to make it the perfect M/M book in this genre.
Despite the rumors and all of the unnecessary controversy, this book is a modern love story between two strong willed and dominant men who were meant to find one another and, the way in which they did was fantastic, maybe even epic! This is also a book about finding and accepting yourself and learning to accept love when you least expect it and from a person you more than least expect. I went through a lot of different emotions while reading this book. I laughed (a lot), I cried and I seriously swooned for both H’s, Troy and Larson. But, if you think that the H’s are anything alike, you couldn’t be more wrong (well, with the exception of being alpha males). Although this is a love story, it doesn’t start out that way. The complete opposite, in fact. There is no insta love here, but a whole lot of insta lust and crazy hot sex scenes that will leave you wishing it was you in between them. Three words: “That bloody elevator.” Yes, that bloody elevator indeed. Just think of the yummy things that can happen in tight, closed spaces!
Not only are we graced with two delicious H’s, but two incredible authors, Andrea Smith and Eva LeNoir, who brought both of their characters together as seamlessly as if it was just one author writing. A truly impressive feat and one that I believe is quite extraordinary.
Black Balled is an absolutely phenomenal and mind-blowingly naughty read. Trust me, you have to experience this book for yourself. I could not possibly give it a higher recommendation.
*I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review
Now, here's Ashley's review, and of course, every author loves a 5-star, but of course we know, that every review won't be a 5-star. However, we enjoy them while we can!
-------------------------------------------
REVIEW #1
Ashley S.'s review Apr 28, 15
5 of 5 stars
bookshelves: arc, 6-stars, favorites
Read from April 14 to 15, 2015, read count: 2
To me, Black Balled is a flawless read. From the amazing character development to the unique storyline, it hit all of my requirements to make it the perfect M/M book in this genre.
Despite the rumors and all of the unnecessary controversy, this book is a modern love story between two strong willed and dominant men who were meant to find one another and, the way in which they did was fantastic, maybe even epic! This is also a book about finding and accepting yourself and learning to accept love when you least expect it and from a person you more than least expect. I went through a lot of different emotions while reading this book. I laughed (a lot), I cried and I seriously swooned for both H’s, Troy and Larson. But, if you think that the H’s are anything alike, you couldn’t be more wrong (well, with the exception of being alpha males). Although this is a love story, it doesn’t start out that way. The complete opposite, in fact. There is no insta love here, but a whole lot of insta lust and crazy hot sex scenes that will leave you wishing it was you in between them. Three words: “That bloody elevator.” Yes, that bloody elevator indeed. Just think of the yummy things that can happen in tight, closed spaces!
Not only are we graced with two delicious H’s, but two incredible authors, Andrea Smith and Eva LeNoir, who brought both of their characters together as seamlessly as if it was just one author writing. A truly impressive feat and one that I believe is quite extraordinary.
Black Balled is an absolutely phenomenal and mind-blowingly naughty read. Trust me, you have to experience this book for yourself. I could not possibly give it a higher recommendation.
*I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review
April 28, 2015
HAPPY RELEASE DAY ELLE KENNEDY!
"The Mistake" is LIVE!!
Elle Kennedy is by far my favorite NA author!!
I'm reading this now and preparing myself for yet another book hangover!
Elle Kennedy is by far my favorite NA author!!
I'm reading this now and preparing myself for yet another book hangover!
