Sage Nestler's Blog, page 40

Kayleigh Causton Art – Into The Fog by A.M. Nestler

Hello, Everyone!

I wanted to show you all some amazing artwork that I had done by an artist named Kayleigh Causton.  She completed the following portraits for my characters in my novel, Into The Fog, and they are just gorgeous!  Kayleigh is just the sweetest, most talented person.  I highly suggest her artwork if you are looking for art for your novels or other projects.

Visit Kayleigh Online

Enjoy!

Ashley

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Addanc from Into The Fog

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Darielle from Into The Fog

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Deronica from Into The Fog

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Harlisisle from Into The Fog

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Quarilite from Into The Fog

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Tarum from Into The Fog

FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form

FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com

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Book Review: Lost Rider by Harper Sloan

Title: Lost Rider

Author: Harper Sloan

Rating: 3/5

Synopsis: 

In Lost Rider, the first Western romance in New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Harper Sloan’s Coming Home series, an injured rodeo star encounters an old flame but will she be just what he needs to get back in the saddle?

Maverick Austin Davis is forced to return home after a ten-year career as a rodeo star. After one too many head injuries, he’s off the circuit and in the horse farming business, something he’s never taken much of a shine to, but now that it’s his late father’s legacy, familial duty calls. How will Maverick find his way after the only dream he ever had for himself is over?

Enter Leighton Elizabeth James, an ugly duckling turned beauty from Maverick’s childhood—his younger sister’s best friend, to be exact, and someone whose heart he stomped all over when she confessed her crush to him ten years back. Now Leighton is back in Maverick’s life, no longer the insecure, love-stricken teen—and Maverick can’t help but take notice. Sparks fly between them, but will Leighton be able to open her heart to the one man who broke it all those years ago?

Written in the vein of Diana Palmer and Lindsay McKenna, this Texas-set series is filled with sizzle, heart, and plenty of cowboys!

Review:

I received this box from Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss!  This is a great subscription box for those who love new women’s fiction.

I have to admit that I am very picky when it comes to romance/erotica novels.  When I do read erotica novels I stay within the cowboy/Western genre, so I was very excited to receive this book in my Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss!

Lost Rider by Harper Sloan is the first book in a new series, and this book follows a bull rider named Maverick on his way back to his childhood home.  But the book also follows Leighton, a girl who had a huge crush on Maverick growing up, and how she is still hung up on Maverick after all of the years that they were apart.  Lost Rider essentially takes place after Maverick comes home and he and Leighton end up falling in love.

However, I did have one big issue with this novel.  In the beginning of the story, Leighton is made fun of by Maverick for “trying to be sexy when she looks like a twelve year old boy”.  Even though this was in a flash back, it showed how Maverick didn’t recognize Leighton when he came back to town because she had “grown breasts”.  Leighton also talks about how she got a boob job because she was self – conscious about her body.  Sloan seems to insinuate that Leighton wasn’t important enough to be noticed unless she had large breasts.  I just thought that it was shallow of Maverick to not recognize Leighton because her body had changed, and he only seemed to like her once she had filled out.  This was very chauvinistic, and it didn’t sit with me well.

But Lost Rider is a great page turner.  Despite multiple grammatical errors, the story was a quick read and it did keep me interested.  The erotic scenes were few and classy, and the romance between Leighton and Maverick ended up being endearing.  I just wish – as a female author – Sloan wouldn’t have body shamed Leighton.  Even though she did have Leighton fight back against Maverick, it just seemed that he kept Leighton in her place by making her feel self – conscious about her body.  I just expect more from female romance authors in this day and age, and I hope that Sloan will improve how her male characters treat her female characters in the future.  Readers learn from books, and we don’t need more men judging women by their looks.

FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form

FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com

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Box Review: A Girl’s Night In – May 2017

Hello, Everyone!

I wanted to share with you another introvert box that I found!  This box is called “A Girl’s Night In” and it brings introvert women activities to do on a night at home.  I love the care that goes into curating this box, and I highly recommend it!  We all need a relaxing night in once in a while.

Much love,

Ashley

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A Girl’s Night In

Each box is carefully curated with the discerning introvert in mind and starts with an interesting book. You’ll also find bath and beauty products such as handmade bath bombs, high-quality facial masks and other cruelty-free products, craft kits along with instructions, hand-made candles, chocolates or other sweet treats, herbal or regular tea, or maybe hot cocoa. We also have a Facebook group and a monthly Spotify playlist.

With A Girl’s Night In Box, you’ll have a reason to say, “Sorry, I’m just so busy. I guess I’ll have to miss that big party with all those people tonight!”

Plan Options:

Month to Month: $39.95 + shipping*
3 Month PrePay: $115 + shipping*
6 Month PrePay: $220 + shipping*

*Ships ONLY within the US and Canada – shipping is calculated.

I couldn’t wait to receive this box because I am an introvert and love spending nights on my own.  I think it is great that this box celebrates introverts, because it is much needed!

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A Girl’s Night In comes in this gorgeous bluish-purple box with the logo on the front.  I love the calming design.  It made me so excited to see it waiting for me on my porch!

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The first item in the box is this pair of Solemate Socks by The Sock Lady!  These socks are extremely warm and comfortable and I am actually wearing them right now.  The socks are mismatched, and I love the quirky look to them.  They are the perfect pair of socks for an introvert such as myself!  The socks are also made out of recycled cotton, which I appreciate very much.

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The next item is this set of Seed of Intention Cards!  I love how these cards help the subscriber have confidence in themselves.

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Here are a few of the cards for example!  I love the positivity of the cards.  This is a great gift for introverts who want to expand themselves and stand up for who they are.

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Also included in the box is this tension balm from Sincerely Different!  I love this balm because it helps to ease your stress and/or anxiety.  I suffer from an anxiety disorder, so I was very excited to see this balm included!  I have already used it, and it works wonders.  For those who have skin sensitivities, a hand cream was sent instead.  This just shows how much A Girl’s Night In cares about their subscribers!

The next items are these packets of tea from Art of Tea!  I received an Egyptian Chamomile tea and two packets of French Lemon Ginger.  The chamomile tea was a great calming tea, and I liked how sweet it was.  I also loved the lemon ginger teas because I have stomach issues, and they helped to soothe my stomachaches!  As you can see, I am quite the tea enthusiast since I already used these teas up.  Therefore, I am very excited that they were included in the box!  Tea is a must for an introvert’s night in.

 

The treat included in this box is a milk chocolate bar from Dagoba!  Chocolate is always a good idea for a night in, and I love how this chocolate is rich and unique.  Usually, I am a dark chocolate fan.  But I love how this bar isn’t sickeningly sweet or milky.  It is the perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet milk, and I love how it is rainforest alliance certified.  Good job A Girl’s Night In!  It is always nice receiving gourmet chocolate that you might not buy often.

Als0 included this month is The Book of Doubt by Tessa De Loo!  This book is unique because it is hard to find, and it is written by a Dutch author.  I had not heard of this book before receiving it in this box, and that made me all the more excited to receive it.  Based on the reviews, The Book of Doubt is quite the experience to read.  I love life-changing books!

Synopsis:

Even though he is the son of a Dutch mother, Saeed has a Moroccan first name in memory of the virtuoso oud player his mother fell in love with twenty years ago. When she found out she was pregnant, he ran off and returned to Morocco. Saeed decides to look for his father, in the hope of finding a new identity in a new world. His childhood friend Hassan accompanies him. Back then they shared an imaginary land which they both ruled. Now they only have one starting point: a grocery shop in Fez. From there they follow the trail of the oud player, who leads them from the cedar woods of Ifrane to the red dunes of the desert to the high Atlas, where Kasbahs are locked in a losing battle with decay. Saeed’s search sends him deeper into disillusionment and into the arms of Islam, where he tries to find something to hold on to. But there is a disturbing presence. A seemingly fictitious character from their imaginary past infiltrates Saeed’s quest. While Saeed desperately tries to get rid of him, different aspects of his life, more and more beyond his control, reach an apotheosis resulting in one final deed affecting man and beast alike.

The last item is this fancy Wordsearch book!  This item was included for introverts to have something to do in public when they don’t want to participate in small talk.  I found this concept hilarious because it is so true!  Wordsearch is a much better activity to do than just staring at your phone.  The Wordsearch book is high quality, and I have already completed six of the puzzles!  This item is probably once of my favorites in the box.  Thank you, A Girl’s Night In!

This month’s playlist on Spotify is based on classical music, and I love the songs that A Girl’s Night In picked!  The playlist is extremely calming, and it goes well with the box experience.

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Final Thought: A Girl’s Night In KILLED IT with this box.  Every single item was of high quality, and each item gave the subscriber a different activity to do during a night in.  I love how unique each item was, and each item was something that I had never come across before.  A Girl’s Night In is a luxurious box for introverts, and I appreciate the care that went into making introverts feel loved with this box.

March Literary Vacation Club Review

Hello, Everyone!

I wanted to share with you a review that The Box Reviewers did of my subscription box – Literary Vacation Club – for our March box!  Our theme was Norse Mythology, and we sent each subscriber on a trip to Norway!

If you are interested in subscribing to us, use the code “WELCOME10” for 10% off of our first box!  

June’s theme is “DESTINATION: Russia”!

Much love,

Ashley

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Literary Vacation Club is a book subscription service that sends you on a literary vacation every month! 
Plan Options:

The Holiday: 1-2 indie novels in any genre (except for horror, poetry, and erotica), unique items that tantalize all 5 senses, and a bonus bookish goodie!

$29.99/month plus shipping*
Save $5 with their pre-paid plan – $84.99 every 3 months + shipping*




The Weekender: 1 indie novel in any genre (except for horror, poetry, and erotica), items that tantalize your see and hear sense, and an item that tantalize the smell or touch sense.

$14.99/month plus shipping*
Pre-paid plan is $54.99  every 3 months + shipping

*Shipping: $6.99 for the US, $10.99 for Canada, and $19.99 for Worldwide

March’s theme is “Norse Mythology”

I want to start off that I apologize for the late review. This is a March box and we are now in mid-May. Let’s just say time is not my friend at the moment.

First look: Literary Vacation Club always put a lot of thought and care into their packaging. Every month, it feels like I’m opening a lovely care package from a friend!

I was instantly greeted by the Literary Vacation Club pamphlet, which contains the packaging list, book questions that are available for discussion at their official facebook club, and a thank note from the owner of the company, Ashley Nestler. I also received a cute greeting card from the owner, saying “Happy Day!”. I love collecting cards so it’s always nice to receive a special, handwritten note!

Literary Vacation Club stands out for me because of their five senses feature  Each item appeals to one of the five senses: to See, Hear, Taste, Touch, or Smell.

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To See: We received multiple items this month! The first item is a raven print, which is connected to Odin, a God of War and Death. I love ravens so this was a delight for me! The second item is a sticker sheet of Lord of the Rings by Beloved by HIM. I love Lord of the Rings and I was happy to see this was included in the box since Tolkien’s influences were in Norse Mythology!

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As a bonus, Holiday subscribers received a Thor magnetic bookmark by Kaelis Accessories and a Crocheted Lothlorien Leaf Badge by Crocheted Candy. Magnetic bookmarks have become increasingly popular in book subscription boxes and I can see why! They are cute, functional, and you can never have too many bookmarks!

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The Lothlorien Leaf Badge is based on Lord of the Rings. It is a reference to the brooch that Galadriel had given to the members of the Fellowship of the Ring.

To Hear: Members can access to a specific playlist on Spotify, curated to enhance your reading experience. This month, there are two playlists to go along with the featured novel!

To Taste: We received four rye crackers and two raspberry and red currant preserves by Bonne Maman. This is only available to the Holiday plan. A Viking’s diet is mostly meats, vegetables, wild fruits and cereals such as barley and rye so, my guess is that in Norse, it’s safe to assume that their diet could be similar hence the rye crackers and preserves. I never had rye crackers before so it was curious to try it. After pairing it with the preserves, it took a couple of bites for me to decide that I liked it!

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To Touch: We received a Floral Nordic Pencil Pouch with a snowflake charm. Flowers have a lot of meanings in the mythology. For instance, it is the return of spring after a long winter or even life and death. With the snowflake charm, the reference can link to the return of spring after winter. My mom loves flowers so I will be giving the pouch to her.

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To Smell: Included was the 12th Night wax by Antiquity & Illusion. At first, the scent is powerful! It is a strong scent of warm spices. However, after a while, the scent seems to tone down a little bit. Since this was shipped out in the month of March, the weather can still be cold and snowy so the warm scent is wonderful for cold nights.

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Last but not least, the book choices! All plans received a young adult, urban fantasy novel, Elsker by S.T. Bende and Holiday subscribers also received a novella written by the same author, The Elsker Saga: Tur.

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Here is a brief summary of Elsker from Amazon:

“Kristia Tostenson prefers Earl Grey to Grey Goose and book clubs to nightclubs. But when she transfers from her one-stoplight Oregon town to Cardiff University in Wales, she falls in love with Ull Myhr. Her new boyfriend isn’t exactly what she was expecting. Ull is an honest-to-goodness Norse god — an immortal assassin fated to die at Ragnarok, the battle destined to destroy Asgard and Earth. When someone starts asking the wrong questions, Kristia realizes the crazy visions she’s had all her life might be the key to saving their realms… even if they end up costing her her life. Her orderly world just got very messy. (Elsker: The Elsker Saga, Book One)”

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Here is a brief summary of The Elsker Saga: Tur from Amazon:

“Inga Andersson is the envy of every girl in Asgard. On the surface she has it all — great friends, a job as Odin’s personal fight choreographer, and a happy ever after with her realm’s hottest assassin. But when evil invades Asgard, her perfect world comes crashing down. Someone is planning to kill off the gods, and Inga’s best friend Ull is first on their list. With the Norse apocalypse a nanosecond away, Inga has to decide how she’ll spend her final moments of freedom. Because from the moment this battle begins, Inga’s happily ever after will be nothing more than a memory.

Some things are worth fighting for.”

The author also included a signed bookmark and an Olaug’s Norsk Waffles recipe! The preserves that were included in the box would have been a perfect topping for this recipe! I just wished I didn’t finish it with the rye crackers!

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Final thoughts: This is my favorite theme from Literary Vacation Club! The items fit the Norse theme perfectly and I would have never discovered S.T. Bende or independent authors that Literary Vacation Club have worked with in the past. It is a wonderful subscription service that will take you on a reading vacation!

Box Review: Blue Spider’s Attic – May 2017

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The Magic Of A Used Bookstore Delivered.

Blue Spider’s Attic is a book subscription that sends you used books, coffee and/or tea, and bookish accessories.  Each month’s box is based on a different theme, and all items are carefully picked to match that month’s theme.

Each box comes with three used books along with enough tea or coffee to fill a whole pot.  Also included are bonus accessories that correlate to the month’s theme.

 There Are Three Different Boxes That Blue Spider’s Attic Offers:

The Attic Box = Includes books, tea or coffee, and bookish accessories

Month by Month ($21.99/month+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($59.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($114.99+shipping)


Blue Spider’s Bookish Accessories = Include 2 – 3 bookish accessories and one sample of tea and one sample of coffee

Month by Month ($13.99+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($39.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($79.50+shipping)


Blue Spider’s Basics = Includes books, coffee, and tea

Month by Month ($13.99+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($39.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($79.50+shipping)


Blue Spider’s Attic also offers one time boxes that you can purchase without subscribing
US shipping is $7.00

One of the best things about subscribing to this box is that you are able to list your book preferences.  No two boxes are the same, and the owners work hard to make sure that you receive books you will love!

Use Code TBR2017 to Receive 10% off of Any Item from Blue Spider’s Attic

I bought the May Attic Box, and this month’s theme is Steampunk!  This is always one of my favorite themes, so I couldn’t wait to receive this box.

Blue Spider’s Attic shows up in a simple kraft box with the logo sticker on the top!  I love how this gives the box a thrifty feel.

Upon opening the box, you are able to see how the items are wrapped in tissue paper and sealed with another logo sticker.  I love this careful packaging.  It makes each box special!

The first item I pulled out of the box is this fake mustache!  This item is a bonus, and it goes perfectly with the steampunk theme.  I have had so much fun playing with it!

The next paper items are a bookmark, business card, and postcard from Blue Spider’s Attic!  I love the Alice in Wonderland themed postcard as well as the personal bookmark.  These are a nice touch!

This skeleton key bottle opener is also a great addition!  I love the steampunk aspect of this item.  Skeleton keys are something that I love to collect!

Blue Spider’s Attic includes coffee or tea each month, and this month I received ground coffee from Jitter Crow!  This coffee has a rich flavor, and I like how smooth it is.  Coffee and reading go so well together!

 

The next item is probably my favorite thing in the box!  It is a scent locket that you can put oils into and use for aromatherapy.  I am very into aromatherapy, and I have been wanting one of these lockets for forever!

The locket comes with two pads that can be used with scented oils!

The locket also came with this oil from The Literary Apothecary!  This oil is called “The Coggler” and it was made exclusively for Blue Spider’s Attic to go with the steampunk theme.  I love how the oil is made from essential oils and smells how you would imagine a steampunk setting to smell!

The books chosen for me this month are wrapped in this adorable old-fashioned newspaper!  I love the vintage feel of the wrapping.

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The best part about Blue Spider’s Attic is that they will choose books for you based on your chosen genres!  Because of this, there are only a certain number of boxes available each month.  I put horror and science-fiction as my favorite genres, and Blue Spider’s Attic delivered!  I don’t have any of these books, and they are by authors who I have been needing to try.  I love the care that goes into picking books for each subscriber’s preferences!

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Final Thought: Blue Spider’s Attic is a great box for those who are looking for books chosen specifically for them, as well as used books to stay eco-friendly.  They also send unique items that you can’t find anywhere else!  The experience that this box brings is worth every penny because it does feel like a used bookstore has been brought to you.  Blue Spider’s Attic is one of my favorite book boxes because of the care that goes into each box, and I can’t wait to continue growing my book collection with them!

*NOTE: The Box Reviewers paid for this box to review.

A Mental Vacation Shipped to You

Hello, Everyone!

Summer is just about upon us, and this is the perfect season to vacation during!  However, some of us can’t afford to take vacations.  This is why I created Literary Vacation Club – a box that brings you a multi-sensory reading experience each month to help you escape on a mental vacation!

We have some great destinations to take you on this summer, such as Russia, Neverland, and Westeros!  However, we have limited quantities available for these boxes, so make sure you snag your spot before it’s too late!

Use Code “Welcome10” for 10% off of Your First Box!

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https://biteable.com/watch/embed/lvc-1392696

Announcing Midnight Society Press

Hello, Everyone!

I am excited to announce that my partner and I have started a new publishing company titled “Midnight Society Press”!  As authors and artists ourselves, we found that we were dismayed with the selection of young adult horror and dark fiction novels currently on the market.  We created Midnight Society Press to be able to publish and bring the world hard hitting young adult horror and dark fiction that both young adults and adults can enjoy.  Our mission is to change the young adult horror and dark fiction scene so that the writing is not desensitized for young adults.

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Here is our press release:

Midnight Society Press = A publishing company specializing in young adult horror and dark fiction.

The founders of Midnight Society Press – Ashley Nestler and Jennifer Davanh – were discouraged by the lack of hard hitting horror and dark fiction available to young adults in the current, traditionally published market. With experience in the publishing world and authors/artists themselves, the pair decided to found a publishing company that focuses on edgy, dark young adult fiction that isn’t afraid to scare the reader or make them think.

All of Midnight Society Press’s books are centered on characters in the young adult age range, while exploring the dark side of literature. Young adult fiction under the dark fiction genres shouldn’t be desensitized, and Midnight Society Press aims to bring young adults and adults alike truly unique reads that can’t be found in traditional publishing today.

We have already created our Facebook page and we will be creating our Twitter and IG accounts soon, as well as our website.

Like Our Facebook Page Here

If you are a young adult horror or dark fiction author looking to be published with us, please email me at peachykeenreviews@gmail.com for more information!  We would LOVE to work with you.

Much love,

Ashley

FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form

FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com

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A Discussion on Dystopian Novel Writing

Dystopian novels have grown in popularity the last couple of years, and this has allowed authors and readers alike to experience the possibilities of what our reality may become in the near future.  Writing dystopian fiction is one of the most unique writing experiences, because it allows the author to portray their idea of what an alternative reality might entail.  In my dystopian novel, Beautiful Nightmare, I explore a world where technology takes over to influence humanity; but I also add in the ancient practices of astrology and reading astral signs to find guidance.  When writing dystopian fiction, it is important to add elements from the past and the future to portray how these elements can collide and affect the present.  The trick with writing dystopian novels is that even though it derives from the science fiction and fantasy genres, it is heavily influenced by history.  All of today’s novels are derived from history in one way or another, and dystopian novels focus on the human experience in terms of humanity’s shortcomings and misery.  The biggest drive to the dystopian genre is misery, and a dystopian writer’s duty is to focus on the misery that derives from oppression or totalitarian communities.  By focusing on oppression to drive a dystopian community, the writer has the unique opportunity to portray how their characters rise, or fall, in the face of oppression.

As can be seen in many different dystopian novels – such as Divergent and The Hunger Games – dystopian characters are some of the most resilient characters in literature.  Dystopian characters teach us to stay strong despite external circumstances, and they teach us to speak up for what we believe in.  Therefore, dystopian novels and the authors of such are extremely important.  A dystopian writer’s duty is to create characters that are outside of reality,but represent the universal human characteristics that we all share: a hope for life, and the betterment thereof.  No matter how dark or dreary the dystopian world, if a writer creates characters that are vibrant and strong enough to shine against that setting, the reader will be changed for the better.

 

FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form

FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com

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Box Review: Thrifty Books – June 2017

Hello, Everyone!

Today I’d like to show you a book subscription that is very earth friendly!  This box is called Thrifty Books.  They send out used copies of books to show readers wonderful books that they might not have tried, while also using recycled and recyclable packaging.  They also send different teas, coffees, and other usable items, and I just love them!  Melissa, the owner of the box, is so passionate about what she does, and her passion translates into her box.  Enjoy!

Much love,

Ashley

. * . * . *

Print is not dead, but it is distributed differently.

Gone are your struggles to decide what to read next. Let Thrifty Books pick your next favorite book, or remind you why you’ve always loved a classic.  Each box contains a used book and coffee of the month!  All books chosen are literary fiction.

Why Literary Fiction?

You may be thinking, why literary fiction and not just fiction? Literary fiction has a strong focus in the act of writing and language itself, character development over plot, and social and historical commentary.

Plans:

Thrifty Books Deluxe

The Thrifty Books Deluxe Box includes the book, coffee of the month, and extra goodies like tea, literary gifts, etc. (choose ground or whole bean coffee)
$32/month (Includes shipping)
$96/3 Month PrePay (Includes shipping)
$187/6 Month PrePay (Includes shipping)


Thrifty Books Basic

Includes book and coffee only (choose ground or whole bean coffee)
$15/Month + shipping
$45/3 Month PrePay + shipping
$85/6 Month PrePay + shipping

I received the June Thrifty Books Deluxe Box to review.  Since this box has not yet been sent out, make sure you get your orders in before they sell out!

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Thrifty Books comes in a kraft box with the logo stamped on the front!  There is also a recycle stamp since this box is recyclable.

There is also a cute Thrifty Books sticker on the side of the box.  I love the tagline!

The contents of the box are wrapped in this bright tissue paper.  I love the Thrifty Books sticker that holds the tissue paper together!  It makes the box feel like opening a present, and I absolutely love it!

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The box comes with this note to alert the subscriber that Thrifty Books uses eco-friendly materials!  I love this.  There is so much waste not only in the subscription box industry but every retail industry.  Every little effort helps.  Good job Thrifty Books!  I will make sure to recycle my box when I am done.

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The first item I pull out of the box is this adorable tea strainer!  I love the lilac color, and the small disk is perfect to set the strainer on when my tea is done steeping.

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These moon sticky notes by Second Mansion were also included, and they are so cute!  I love anything to do with space, and this is such a unique item.

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The next item is this tin of Earl Grey tea from Solstice Tea Traders!    Earl Grey tea is my favorite tea, and I love how fragrant it is!  The tea is perfect to use with the tea strainer that was sent in the box!

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Novel Teas is a great brand of book related tea and Thrifty Books sent this set of English Breakfast Tea with literary tags!

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Each tag has a quote or bookish related writing to accompany the tea.  It makes me feel so old fashioned!  This item definitely speaks to my old soul, and the tea is absolutely delicious.

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This book locket necklace from Coco’s Creative Chaos was also included in the box!  I love the New Age essence of the necklace with the purple crystal, and wearing it makes me feel ethereal.  I love it!

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This next item is very unique!  It is an herbal supplement that you can drink, and it is called Brain Dust.  This herbal supplement is designed to help you align with the mighty cosmic flow so that you can achieve greatness.  It also helps you to maintain healthy body systems.  I am very into natural healing, so this item is a big win for me!

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The last accessory is this button from Beanforest!  I do love the smell of books, especially used books, so this pin is perfect for me.  I also love that it comes from a small shop!  I will definitely be purchasing more items from them.

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The owner of Thrifty Books, Melissa, included this letter to let the subscriber know why she chose the book that she did!  I love how she rounded up thrift copies of this month’s book to stay eco-friendly. and her letter made me feel connected to not only her but to the book as well.  This letter also includes the website to the blog where subscribers can blog about the month’s book!

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This month’s chosen book is The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold!  Alice Sebold is one of my favorite authors of all time, and her novel The Lovely Bones changed me for the better.  Her writing is a rare kind of literature that leaves the reader forever changed at the end.  I have seen The Almost Moon in numerous thrift stores before, but I have never purchased it myself!  I am so glad to have received it since Melissa was so touched by the book.  This book looks like an emotionally jarring read, and I can’t wait to get started on it.

Here is the synopsis:

A woman steps over the line into the unthinkable in this brilliant, powerful, and unforgettable new novel by the author of The Lovely Bones and Lucky.

For years Helen Knightly has given her life to others: to her haunted mother, to her enigmatic father, to her husband and now grown children. When she finally crosses a terrible boundary, her life comes rushing in at her in a way she could never have imagined. Unfolding over the next twenty-four hours, this searing, fast-paced novel explores the complex ties between mothers and daughters, wives and lovers, the meaning of devotion, and the line between love and hate. It is a challenging, moving, gripping story, written with the fluidity and strength of voice that only Alice Sebold can bring to the page.

The book also came with an exclusive bookmark by Thrifty Books!  I love the quote on the bookmark, and the Cheshire Cat is one of my favorite literary characters.

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Final Thought: Melissa puts so much care into curating her boxes, and I love her eco-friendly drive.  All of the items included in the box are useful, and I love how Melissa is bringing back wonderful novels that are older.  Thrifty Books is a great way to try new teas, coffees, and small shops, while also receiving used books with a purpose!  Everything about this box just makes you feel at home, and I love how Melissa cares so much about her subscribers.

Box Review: Paper Street Books and Comics – April/May 2017

Hello, Everyone!

I want to share with you a box called Paper Street Books and Comics that featured a sneak peek of my novel, Beautiful Nightmare, this April!  It is a great box for graphic novels and science fiction, fantasy and horror novels.  I hope you enjoy!

Much love,

Ashley

Paper Street Books & Comics is a bi-monthly mystery book box for those who are obsessed with reading! It is for readers who are adventurous, imaginative and definitely not afraid to explore. We offer both graphic novels and adult fiction, featuring books that are quirky and humorous and sometimes thrilling! These can be in the Sci-Fi, Fantasy,  and Horror genres from indie and mainstream publishers!

As a member, you’ll receive a box featuring:

Adult fiction and/or graphic novel

1-3 items related to the theme/book

Bookish swag from our featuring authors or publishers (if available)

Available Plans:

The Book Addict (Book + Accessories) $29.99/bi-monthly+shipping
The Comic Addict (Graphic Novel + Accessories) $29.99/bi-monthly+shipping
The Book Warrior (Graphic Novel + Book + Accessories) $44.99/bimonthly+shipping

*Worldwide Shipping is Available*

April’s theme was “Terra & Luna” and I couldn’t wait to receive the Book Warrior box!  This was also Paper Street Books and Comics’ one-year anniversary box, so that made it extra special.
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Paper Street shows up in a simple white box with the logo on the front!  I like how straightforward the packaging is.  The box is also big enough to hold all of the items inside, but small enough that the items won’t move around during shipping.
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The items in the box come carefully wrapped in tissue paper!  I love this care that goes into the packaging.
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The box comes with this brochure which includes a note from the owners of the box and an item list!  The design is gorgeous.
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On the left of the inside of the brochure is the letter from the owners.  I like how they explained why they chose the books that they did as well as their reasoning behind the theme.  It makes the box so personal!
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The book included this month is Avengers of the Moon by Allen Steele!  This book was included because it takes the reader back to the golden age of sci-fi, which I LOVE!  I am a huge old-school sci-fi fan, so this book made me squeal.
Here is the synopsis:

Allen Steele, author of Arkwright, gives us a thrilling piece of science fiction pulp with Avengers of the Moon

Curt Newton has spent most of his life hidden from the rest of humankind, being raised by a robot, an android, and the disembodied brain of a renowned scientist. This unlikely trio of guardians has kept his existence a closely guarded secret after the murder of Curt’s parents.

Curt’s innate curiosity and nose for trouble inadvertently lead him into a plot to destabilize the Solar Coalition and assassinate the president. There’s only one way to uncover the evil mastermind—Curt must become Captain Future.

With the permission of the Edmond Hamilton estate, Allen Steele revives the exciting adventures of Captain Future.

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The graphic novel this month is actually a young adult graphic novel!  The book is called Wires and Nerve by Marissa Meyer, and it is part of The Lunar Chronicles Series.  The Lunar Chronicles is a young adult science fiction series, and it brings classic sci-fi literature to a new generation.

Here is a synopsis for the graphic novel:

The first graphic novel from #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller Marissa Meyer!

In her first graphic novel, bestselling author Marissa Meyer extends the world of the Lunar Chronicles with a brand-new, action-packed story about Iko , the android with a heart of (mechanized) gold.When rogue packs of wolf-hybrid soldiers threaten the tenuous peace alliance between Earth and Luna, Iko takes it upon herself to hunt down the soldiers’ leader. She is soon working with a handsome royal guard who forces her to question everything she knows about love, loyalty, and her own humanity. With appearances by Cinder, Cress, Scarlet, Winter, and the rest of the Rampion crew, this is a must-have for fans of the bestselling series.

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Also included is a single comic of American Gods: Shadows #1 by Neil Gaiman, P. Craig Russell, and Scott Hampton.  American Gods has had a resurgence of popularity since a new television series based on the book has been airing.  That being said, I was very excited to see this comic included in the box!  Comics are my guilty pleasure, and that is one of the reasons why I adore this box.

Here is a synopsis of the comic:

WAR IS COMING!

Shadow Moon just got out of jail, only to discover his wife is dead. Defeated, broke, and uncertain as to where to go from here, he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday, who employs him to serve as his bodyguard—thrusting Shadow into a deadly world of the supernatural, where ghosts of the past come back from the dead, and a brewing war between old and new gods hits a boiling point.

The Hugo, Bram Stoker, Locus, World Fantasy, and Nebula award–winning novel and upcoming Starz television series by Neil Gaiman is adapted as a comic series for the first time!

 

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The first of the bonus items included in the box is this Crystal Growing Cherry Tree by Copernicus Toys!  This tree is part of terraforming – creating a world based on Earth – and it literally grows before your eyes!

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It adds a nice touch of spring to my room, and it is so delicate.  It goes with the terra theme perfectly.

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The owners of Paper Street make their own candles from time to time, and this month they made a candle based on Sailor Moon!  I love Sailor Moon – she is one of my favorite characters of all time – and the scent of this candle goes perfectly with her personality.  It has such a lovely spring scent.  It is nice receiving an item based on Sailor Moon because you don’t see these items very often.

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Paper Street also included this exclusive Sailor Moon magnet!  It is gorgeous, and I love how Luna – the cat – is part of the design.  Paper Street designed the artwork themselves!

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As a bonus to subscribers who have been with Paper Street for multiple renewals, Paper Street sent out these gorgeous space lollipops!  These are a throwback to the first box that Paper Street ever sent out, and I love that.

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Here is a close up of this lollipop!  I haven’t eaten it yet because it is just too darn pretty, but I did lick it and it is delicious!

The last item included in the box is this sneak peek of Beautiful Nightmare by A.M. Nestler – which is me!  Beautiful Nightmare was my first novel, and Paper Street was kind enough to include this sneak peek in their box.
Here is the synopsis:

What if your true love was only present in your dreams?

In the dystopian town of Lunamoon, everything is structured. Humans are created by science and everyone is programmed to follow certain regulations; but one girl, Shawneleigh, never lived up to the Council’s regulations. Shawneleigh has the disorder of narcolepsy, a disorder that causes her to fall asleep at random times without warning. Because of her illness, the Council banned her to life in a hospital since she cannot be counted on fulfill other duties. Lunamoonians all receive prophecies for their lives through dreams that the Dream Maker sends to them, but Shawneleigh hadn’t received a dream in years until she found herself falling into a dream during her sleeping spells. It is during these spells that she meets a man named August who claims to be the Dream Maker himself. He also lives in solitude outside of Lunamoon, and they begin to form a bond; however, Shawneleigh cannot control when she falls asleep, and soon August finds a way to manipulate her illness. The only problem is that when he manipulates her sleeping disorder, she continues to grow sicker. But no matter how hard they try, they can’t stay away from one another.

“Beautiful Nightmare: Some Dreams Become Your Reality” is novel about love, life, and the importance of those who care about you. Love, above all else, is the best thing that we have to give.


Final Thought: Paper Street Books and Comics is the best box to get your fantasy, sci-fi and horror book/graphic novel fix!  The curation is always on point, and I love how the owners put so much thought into the items so that they all connect to the theme.  This is the perfect box for hardcore comic and book nerds!