Sage Nestler's Blog, page 30
October 4, 2017
New Cover: Beautiful Nightmare
I am excited to announce that my first novel, Beautiful Nightmare, now has a new cover! I absolutely love the artwork, and I can’t wait for you all to see the new edition.
Much love,
Ashley
October 3, 2017
New Release: Always & Forever by J.A. Collard
A new romance novella is now available for purchase! This novella is called Always & Forever, and it is a sweet little treat. If you are looking for a quick burst of romance, pick this one up for only $0.99!
Much love,
Ashley
️Always and Forever️[image error]
Only $0.99 US
October 2, 2017
New Release: Redemption by Elizabeth Knox
A new novel called Redemption is out, and it features one of my favorite female characters to date! Author Elizabeth Knox brings a fast-paced romance in her new novel with a central female who can kick some ass. What more could you ask for? I highly recommend picking this one up! Read on to find out more.
Much love,
Ashley
.•*¨) ★¸.•*´¨) ★.•*´¨)
★(¸.•´ REDEMPTION
IS NOW LIVE
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Daisy is a tough as nails member of Skulls Renegade MC, and she prides herself on pushing past her demons. But she just watched one of her best friends get proposed to, and she can’t help but feel something softening inside of her. She has had a rough time of it, coming out of the worst break up possible with Kyle, the old Prez of Skulls Renegade MC, who left her high and dry when she had to pay the price for his screw up with a loan shark. Now, he’s back, and he has gotten injured saving the MC from an attack by a Mexican cartel, and it’s hard not to see him as someone she cares for again. The problem is, she’s been sneaking around with another prominent member of the MC completely undetected and was almost ready to spill the beans. Daisy finds herself locked in the strangest love triangle she can imagine, needing Kyle’s presence to heal from what she has done but wanting to keep the other man in her life tearing up her bedroom late at night.
Teasers
Authors Social Media:
www.facebook.com/elizabethknoxbooks
www.instagram.com/elizabethknoxbooks
*NOTE: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.
October 1, 2017
Book Review: Dead to You by Lisa McMann
Title: Dead to You
Author: Lisa McMann
Technical Rating: 3/5
Enjoyment Rating: 4/5
Synopsis:
A powerful psychological thriller with a shocking twist from the New York Times bestselling author of the Wake trilogy.
Ethan was abducted from his front yard when he was just seven years old. Now, at sixteen, he has returned to his family. It’s a miracle…at first. Then the tensions start to build. His reintroduction to his old life isn’t going smoothly, and his family is tearing apart all over again. If only Ethan could remember something, anything, about his life before, he’d be able to put the pieces back together. But there’s something that’s keeping his memory blocked. Something unspeakable…
Review:
Lisa McMann is best known for her Wake trilogy, but when I found out that she wrote a novel involving kidnapping, I had to snap it up. I love kidnapping novels, and the thrilling aspects of Dead to You drew me in. McMann knows how to engross readers with her quick paced and detailed writing, but unfortunately, that wasn’t enough to save this novel for me. McMann resorted to certain dirty author tricks in Dead to You, and I couldn’t get past them.
Dead to You is told from the perspective of Ethan, a young man who has returned to his family after being kidnapped when he was a child. However, Ethan doesn’t remember anything from before he was kidnapped. He doesn’t remember his family or friends, and sinking back into his old life is more painful for him and his family than him being kidnapped. Besides his mother, Ethan only seems to get along with his six-year-old sister since his brother and father question whether he really is their family. or just an imposter.
“We’re like South America and Africa. Like two continents that exist far away from each other, so totally different from one another, but if you push them together, if you nestle Brazil up into the armpit of Nigeria, it all fits, like they were made for each other. Like they were of the same skin. Like one broke away from the other a long time ago, but now it’s back. A puzzle, completed.”
While the plot is intriguing, and I did read page after page to find out more, I felt tricked by McMann. Since the book is from Ethan’s perspective, he presents an unreliable narrative due to his memory loss and confusion. Reading Dead to You felt like McMann was hiding secrets from the reader just to get them to read the next page, instead of contributing to the storyline. The breadth of the story was not thick enough to fill an entire novel, so the plot was strung out to accommodate a novel-length fiction. The dialogue that she gave to Ethan’s six-year-old sister was also inaccurate and I found it hard to believe that his sister was only six years old. The characters and events in Dead to You were unrealistic and incohesive. As a social worker, I found the process of Ethan being returned to his family with professionals inaccurate, and that set a tone for my entire reading experience.
But what frustrated me the most about this novel is how McMann rushed the end of the novel. The first 3/4 of the novel was slow and steady, but in the last 1/4 McMann sprang the full truth on the reader without notice or intricacy. It felt as though McMann realized that she was almost to the minimum word count for her novel and rushed to end it as fast as she could, leaving it on an abrupt cliffhanger. I generally do not like cliffhangers at the end of novels because they tend to be a cheap trick used by authors to get readers to buy more books in the series. But since Dead to You is meant to be a standalone novel, the use of a cliffhanger at the end just showed laziness. Since the characters were not given a chance to recoil after the nerve-shattering blows that McMann thrust upon them, the story is unfinished and shouldn’t have been published as is.
Lisa McMann is clearly a talented writer with her use of refined details and language, but Dead to You was not written up to her standards. I did not feel her passion in the words, and I found the story to be unfinished. Even though I was glued to the pages throughout reading the novel, I felt tricked by the ending, and that ruined the reading experience for me. However, if you don’t mind abrupt cliffhangers in novels, then you may find Dead to You pleasurable.
*NOTE: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.
FREE BOOK: A Beautiful Kind of Hope
For 3 days only, A Beautiful Kind of Hope by Cathy Johns is free! I previously reviewed this beautiful book, and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a heartwarming romance. It is a great autumn cozy read!
Much love,
Ashley
FREE FOR 3 DAYS ONLY
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~A Beautiful Kind Of Hope~
I have lived my life without distraction, building a name and an empire in this competitive world, becoming a billionaire as I stayed true to my late mother’s wishes. But all that changed the moment I laid my eyes on her…
Butterfly; that’s what they called her. The woman I couldn’t tear my eyes from as she captivated the crowd, swaying her curvy hips, her nude lingerie leaving nothing to the imagination. The one woman who made me want to break a few wrists when they tried to touch her beautiful mocha skin.
I didn’t know her, and all it took was one taste of her intoxicating scent and I knew I’d never get enough of her.
I needed her in my life to be that ray of sunshine.
To be my beautiful kind of hope.
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September 30, 2017
Happy Banned Books Week
Since this week is Banned Books Week, I wanted to celebrate by discussing some of my favorite banned books! Challenged or banned books have always been a hot topic due to their controversial nature. Some people say that banned books violate our freedom of speech and our freedom of the press, while others agree that banning certain books will protect individuals due to their age.
The full list of banned or challenged books is quite immense, and many of them share the same themes that contribute to them being challenged. Since most of the books on the banned list have been banned from schools and/or curriculum, it is safe to say that they were originally challenged to protect young adults. But I ask you this, do you think that young adults need protecting from certain literature? Do you agree with banning books from school and/or curriculum? Let me know in the comments!
Much love,
Ashley
My Top 3 Banned Books
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Killing Mr. Griffin
Synopsis:
They only meant to scare him.
Mr. Griffin is the strictest teacher at Del Norte High, with a penchant for endless projects and humiliating his students. Even straight-A student Susan can’t believe how mean he is to the charismatic Mark Kinney. So when her crush asks Susan to help a group of students teach a lesson of their own, she goes along. After all, it’s a harmless prank, right?
But things don’t go according to plan. When one “accident” leads to another, people begin to die. Susan and her friends must face the awful truth: one of them is a killer.
Leave the lights on when reading this classic thriller! This new edition features modernized text and a new introduction by Lois Duncan, the master of teen horror.
Discussion:
Now, it is pretty clear as to why Killing Mr. Griffin made the banned books list. The plot itself was challenged since the book focuses on students who kidnap and kill their teacher. However, the book was also challenged due to inappropriate language. Due to the controversial plot, Killing Mr. Griffin is the 4th most challenged book in history. Many parents do not agree with schools including Killing Mr. Griffin in their curriculum, and very few schools still teach this book.
However, one thing that does bother me is that Killing Mr. Griffin has been accused of challenging authority, and that plays a big factor in why it has been banned. But if you read the book, you will understand how Mr. Griffin is borderline abusive towards his students. Even though kidnapping and killing is not an option, the students in the novel should have had the right to speak out against the way that Mr. Griffin was treating them. I personally do not think that “challenging authority” is an excuse for banning a book, and art should be allowed to be expressive. Fiction is a great way for authors and readers to imagine what life would be like if they fought back.
Even though I do understand the concerns surrounding this novel, I think that it is a great book to get teens in the thriller/horror genre. If you haven’t read Killing Mr. Griffin yet, I highly recommend it! It is a short novel that is sure to keep you up all night.
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The Face on the Milk Carton
Synopsis:
No one ever really paid close attention to the faces of the missing children on the milk cartons. But as Janie Johnson glanced at the face of the ordinary little girl with her hair in tight pigtails, wearing a dress with a narrow white collar–a three-year-old who had been kidnapped twelve years before from a shopping mall in New Jersey–she felt overcome with shock. She recognized that little girl–it was she. How could it possibly be true?
Janie can’t believe that her loving parents kidnapped her, but as she begins to piece things together, nothing makes sense. Something is terribly wrong. Are Mr. and Mrs. Johnson really Janie’s parents? And if not, who is Janie Johnson, and what really happened?
Discussion:
The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline B. Cooney is one of my favorite novels of all time. I devoured the entire series when I was in middle school, and it really opened my eyes to the darker side of young adult literature.
However, some people do not agree with letting young adults read The Face on the Milk Carton. Like Killing Mr. Griffin, this novel challenges authority; however, it also presents sexual language and has been deemed inappropriate for the intended age group.
In the novel, Janie questions whether her parents are her real parents or not after seeing a picture that looks a lot like her on a milk carton. The way that Janie challenges what she has always known shows initiative and strength. I feel that Cooney’s series allows young adults to take control of their lives and question what is being told to them. This is more than invaluable, and I honor Cooney for her initiative.
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The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Synopsis:
Read the cult-favorite coming of age story that takes a sometimes heartbreaking, often hysterical, and always honest look at high school in all its glory. Also a major motion picture starring Logan Lerman and Emma Watson, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a funny, touching, and haunting modern classic.The
The critically acclaimed debut novel from Stephen Chbosky, Perks follows observant “wallflower” Charlie as he charts a course through the strange world between adolescence and adulthood. First dates, family drama, and new friends. Sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Devastating loss, young love, and life on the fringes. Caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it, Charlie must learn to navigate those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up.
Discussion:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is my last pick for my top three favorite banned books. This novel helped me immensely when I was in high school, and it has changed so many lives. However, with power comes opposition.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower has been mostly challenged due to the homosexuality present in the novel, sexual language, and discussion of alcohol and drugs. Many people believe that young adults shouldn’t read the novel because it glamorizes these topics, but I disagree. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of those novels that is so similar to the true teenage experience that it hurts. Chbosky knows how to connect to young adults, and I would hate to see this novel disappear.
NOTE: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.
September 29, 2017
Literary Vacation Club October Theme Reveal
I am super excited to announce our October theme at Literary Vacation Club! Halloween is my favorite holiday, and I wanted to honor it by doing a Halloween inspired box. However, since we base our boxes off of a different destination every month, I wanted to take you all to my version of Halloweentown – a town where Halloween is eternal! Therefore, our October theme is “Halloweentown” and the box will include one of my favorite dark fantasy novels. One of a kind items to sport your Halloween pride will also be included; and the best part? These items can be used year round!
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Due to the personalized nature of each of our boxes, we only have a limited number available to start with, and with this box, we ONLY HAVE 4 BOXES LEFT! Make sure you pick yours up before we run out!
Much love,
Ashley
Use code “HALLOW15” for 15% off of your first box!
September 28, 2017
Pre-Order: Dawning Ascent by Jen L. Grey
An exciting new fantasy novel titled Dawning Ascent is now available for pre-order! This novel has elements of romance, wonder, and excitement. I can’t wait for you to try it out! If you are a fan of thrilling fantasy, then you won’t want to miss Dawning Ascent.
Much love,
Ashley
.•*¨) ★¸.•*´¨) ★.•*´¨)
★(¸.•´ Dawning Ascent
Now available for Pre-order!
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Struggle and betrayal will lead to heartache but light can prevail.
Treated like a stranger in her own kingdom, Ariah has learned to live in the shadows. She catches the eye of her lifelong crush and an unlikely ally as she comes into her own powers. She struggles to find truth and trust along a dangerous journey. Only one thing is certain; nothing will ever be the same for her again.
Enemies come to light and distrust spreads. She is no longer safe; will she make the right decision on who to trust? Will she be able to keep her growing powers hidden? Only time will tell in the dawning ascent.
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Teasers
September 27, 2017
Box Review: The Creatives Container
I have quite a treat for you today. I have discovered a new box that sends you DIY projects each month, and I just love it! The box comes with everything that you need to complete the project, and it is a great way to get your craft on. The box is called The Creatives Container and I am sure that you will love it! Enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
A New, Fun & Fabulous Design DIY Project Sent to Your Door Monthly
Packaged in re-usable containers, each delightful delivery brings the opportunity to learn how to make beautiful things from the comfort of home.
High-quality materials and tools used by professional designers.
Fashion-forward design projects created by a fashion industry veteran and a graduate of the world-renowned Fashion Institute of Technology.
Easy-to-follow instructions enclosed PLUS online videos in case you get stuck.
Each reusable container is jam-packed with enough materials for sharing! Invite a friend over for a fancy craft night!
Learn new skills without leaving home! Great for hobbyist or entrepreneurs!
Plan Options:
Month – to – Month: $24.99 + FREE SHIPPING*
3 Month Pre-Pay: $69.99 + FREE SHIPPING*
6 Month Pre-Pay: $124.99 + FREE SHIPPING*
*Only ships within the United States
The Creatives Container is a delightful box that brings DIY projects to your door! I couldn’t wait to try out this box because I absolutely love crafting.
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The Creatives Container comes in a reusable tin! Inside is everything that you need for the provided project. I really appreciate the reusable aspect of this box!
The project in the box that I received is for making Perfumed Drawer Sachets! The box came with fabric, a sewing kit, rice, perfume oil, and instructions on how to make the sachets.
The instructions were very easy to follow, and I liked how the box included a pattern to pin onto the fabric! This helped me to be able to cut the fabric to the correct size. The project came with a couple of different fabrics to work with, so that variety was nice! I also never needed any other materials than what was given to me. That is something that I really appreciate! There is nothing I hate more than needing another material halfway through a project.
Here is my finished project! I love the heavy duty fabric and the sweet scent of the sachet. It is perfect for putting in the bathroom or in a clothes drawer! The kit comes with enough materials to make two sachets, so this is my first sachet.
Final Thought: The Creatives Container is a great box for anyone who wants to try out new DIY projects! I love the thought that goes into creating the projects and providing subscribers with all of the materials needed. The box is also very fairly priced considering the cost of DIY materials nowadays. It is clear to me that the owners of the box are very educated in what they do, and I would happily get their box again. If you love DIY boxes, then The Creatives Container is a must!
September 26, 2017
Book Review: Achilles by Greg Boose
Title: Achilles
Author: Greg Boose
Technical Rating: 3/5
Enjoyment Rating: 4/5
Synopsis:
Lost meets The 100 in this action-packed YA science fiction series-starter.
“WE’RE ON OUR OWN NOW…”
The year is 2221, and humans have colonized a planet called Thetis in the Silver Foot Galaxy. After a tragic accident kills dozens of teenage colonists, Thetis’s leaders are desperate to repopulate. So Earth sends the Mayflower 2—a state-of-the-art spaceship—across the universe to bring 177 new homesteaders to the colony.
For Jonah Lincoln, an orphaned teen who has bounced between foster homes and spent time on the streets of Cleveland, the move to Thetis is a chance to reinvent himself, to be strong and independent and brave, the way he could never be on Earth. But his dreams go up in smoke when their ship crash-lands, killing half the passengers and leaving the rest stranded—not on Thetis, but on its cruel and unpopulated moon, Achilles.
Between its bloodthirsty alien life forms and its distance from their intended location, Achilles is a harrowing landing place. When all of the adult survivors suddenly disappear, leaving the teenage passengers to fend for themselves, Jonah doubts they’ll survive at all, much less reach Thetis—especially when it appears Achilles isn’t as uninhabited as they were led to believe.
Review:
Achilles is a new young adult science fiction novel packed to the brim with adventure and fear. The story mimics American colonial history, but it is set in the future and taken to space. Greg Boose brings rich imagination to his writing while playing to traditional science fiction elements. Even though Achilles is directed towards the young adult audience, the novel can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Science fiction is one of those genres that often comes with heavy storylines and plots that are sometimes hard to keep straight. Achilles reflects this aspect of science fiction, but it compiles a story that oozes excitement and intrigue. Seasoned science fiction readers are sure to absorb Boose’s writing well, and they will find themselves lost in his beautifully imagined world. Achilles promises high action and diverse characters, which I always appreciate in literature.
However, the novel did have a few flaws. For one thing, the sentences were often long-winded and over described. The dialogue was not a big element to the story, so the writer tended to “tell” more than “show” the reader. Even though I enjoy description in novels, I found that some parts of the novel could become redundant. Boose’s cast of characters was also quite large, and it was hard to keep track of them throughout the novel. It was also clear to me that Boose purposefully cut the story short since this novel is the first in a series. I would have rather had a longer novel than a longer series, but I do understand what his intentions were.
Achilles is a thrilling young adult science fiction novel, and I enjoyed falling into the story. Fans of The 100 will surely enjoy this novel, and I think that it is a great book to get into the science fiction genre.
*NOTE: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.*
