Zara Hoffman's Blog: Zara Hoffman's Goodreads Author Blog, page 41

Birthday Week '14 Update

Today I am going to New Orleans on a week-long Habitat For Humanity trip, and will be MIA until late afternoon on Sunday. I am really excited to be going on such an amazing mission, and will also turn 17 while I'm there (March 20). To celebrate, I am doing a 99¢ sale for my book (the prices may not be updated until later since I forgot to change them yesterday).

I'll see you when I'm 17!!!

It's my birthday week! And that means SALE time! http://t.co/OrCVq9lCPs #TheBelgraveDaughter http://t.co/P0rck499RC

— Zara Hoffman (@AuthZH) March 17, 2014

Book Review: Lies by Oliver Dahl

click for tour schedule About the Book Ann Putnam Jr., one of the leading accusers during the Salem Witch Trials (1692) knows that something is wrong. After a horrifying encounter with Tituba, her friends were cursed. Miraculously untouched by the effects of the witch, Ann acts bewitched as well, in an attempt to accuse and hang her friends' torturers. This tragic experience of guilt, abuse, power, and love gives a first-person view into the spine-chilling months where neighbor turned on neighbor at the word of a little girl.

Read more on Oliver's website About the Author "Born in 1998, Oliver Dahl is the oldest of five children and lives in Idaho. Previous to finishing middle school, The Dreamers had earned him the a spot as one of Idaho's Top 50 Idaho authors (2011). The title of Idaho's Student of the Year (2012) preceded both the publication of Dahl's second novel, The Nightmarers, and the completion of his freshman year of high school. ... Dahl is also an awarded musician and engineer."

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My Review As someone who used to be (alright, still is) obsessed with anything related to the Salem Witch Trials (history, literature, plays, etc) I jumped at the chance to review Lies. After providing feedback to Oliver on cover ideas in the Go Teen Writers group, I was so excited to read this story.

Now onto my review:

I adored this book. Oliver Dahl accomplishes a great feat in adding possible motive to a person who has been renounced as a person for lying and causing so many deaths. In addition, the author very accurately captures the voice of a teenage girl in this book, which I think is a laudable accomplishment on its own. The reader gets to see Ann's initial innocence and a misguided sense justice that transformed her into the infamous accusor we study in history class. Her inner conflict over her questionable actions elicits both pity and revulsion, making her an even more interesting character. While short, Lies is a poignant and chilling story that I think everyone should read!

What's in a Name: The Little Mermaid

As you know, in addition to my Belgrave Legacy , I also am writing a series of stand-alone novels that are fairytale retellings with a twist: there's no magic. I already have four planned (Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, Alice in Wonderland, and Swan Lake), and was recently inspired to add a 5th one: The Little Mermaid. The problem is that I don't have a title for it!

Here is the synopsis:

Tired of pining for her crush Ethan Dawson, Ava Trevino enlists the popular girl Jessica to help transform her into someone he'll notice. But appearances aren't everything.

Comment a title idea below (must be at least one original aka not commented by someone else), and you could win a copy of The Belgrave Daughter by entering the Giveaway (below).

Tears of an Angel status update: School has been really crazy for about the past month, and I won't get a reprieve in the foreseeable future, either. I am not abandoning the prospect of working on the second Belgrave Legacy novel, but it is unlikely I will get to work on it before another month passes. Hopefully by then, things will slow down enough that I can catch up, finish the draft, and start editing for publication (most likely Winter 2014 or as late as Spring 2015). Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway

Name That Dragon Blog Tour

About the Tour The Name That Dragon Blog Hunt is a mini-celebration of Melissa A. Petreshock's debut NA Fantasy Romance novel becoming available for pre-order. It's very exciting. Below you will find the tour schedule of author interviews/themed posts. Within these posts, clues and answers are hidden in a scavenger hunt.

Scavenger Hunt Rules: In every odd numbered post (including this one), there will be a clue for a specific dragon mentioned in Fire of Stars and Dragons. Each even numbered post will include the  answer for the previous puzzle. You will need to remember all the answers in order to enter the Grand Prize Giveaway (a sterling silver Celtic triquetra on a 16in chain and a pre-order code). Tour Schedule 3/2/14
#1 Blog Tour Kickoff (you are here)

3/3/14
#2 The Dracopraesi from Fire of Stars and Dragons
#3 Claaron Graywyne
#4 Boston in Fire of Stars and Dragons

3/4/14
#5 Author Interview
#6 Dante
#7 Jaiteru Faerwyng
#8 Author Interview

3/5/14
#9 Author Interview
#10 Caitriona Hayden

3/6/14
#11 Fire of Stars and Dragons Playlist
#12 Book Review

3/7/14
#13 Sir Oliver Pendragon
#14 Theo Pendragon


About the Book Title: Fire of Stars and Dragons
Author: Melissa A. Petreshock
Series: Stars & Souls Trilogy, #1
Genre: NA Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Swoon Romance
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
Pre-Order starting February 28, 2014

Following the death of her vampire uncle, twenty-one-year-old Caitriona Hayden finds herself in the midst of a trio of quintessential alpha male suitors in 22nd century sovereign America where human females should be seen and not heard.

Theo Pendragon claims her as his ward, ordained to guard her through to a long-awaited destiny unbeknownst to Cait, but finds more than he expected when passion ignites within the dragon for the first time. Always drawn to the pursuit of knowledge rather than the heat of desire, powerful demigod Dante cannot deny everything his future holds in Caitriona. America's monarch, ancient vampire Corrin, has no interest in the frivolity of love, yet marrying Cait could be the answer to his continued survival.

Soon, Cait goes from studying for college exams to choosing a husband in seven days, knowing the consequences are eternal, the love undying, and the bond timeless.

Book Trailer | Add on Goodreads | Preorder on Kindle About the Author Melissa A. Petreshock is a full-time writer and member of the Romance Writers of America with past experience in the medical and educational fields, though she has primarily devoted her adult life to raising a family. Born and raised in Kentucky, Melissa spent a number of years in Massachusetts, living outside Boston and in Springfield before returning to her home state where she now resides on a small farm. She enjoys quiet married life and the silliness of her three children, indulging hobbies of music, Zumba, and a minor television addiction in what little free time she finds. Melissa’s interests include causes demanding social change such as mental health awareness and teen suicide prevention. Fire of Stars and Dragons is her debut NA Fantasy Romance novel.

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Mini Praise I am SO happy Fire of Stars and Dragons is available for preorder. It means that I can get it delivered to me the moment it's released on April 29th. I cannot tell you how much I love this book (though I've tried in my review). This book is filled with swoon-worthy men. The Second Brother of the 1st House of the Dracopraesi, who is also 1 of Cait's 3 suitors. He often wears (and is teased for his choice of) rock band t-shirts. And as everyone knows, nothing is sexier than someone with good taste in music. Even if you're not a fan of dragons (though there is a large selection within the Dracopraesi species alone), there are also vampires and an awesome demigod. In short, everyone can find a new book boyfriend in Melissa A. Petreshock's explosive debut. Excerpt: Chapter 2 (Cait's POV) “No. She. Is. Mine.”

Those words ring in my ears. I want them and fear them. He’s a dragon. What that means in this situation, I’m not even sure. Do dragons marry? I can’t say with certainty his claim implied marriage. He did promise to protect me. It occurs to me my hand is still on his, contact I initiated just before his declaration. I move it to my lap, and his retreats to the back of my chair, but there’s a definitive sense of disconnection, touching him appealing to my body with as much natural ease as breathing.

For the first time, Dante speaks, voice smooth, a softened Scottish lilt dripping off his every word. “Perhaps this would be an excellent time to offer a relatively neutral solution to our conundrum over Caitriona’s situation.” He said nothing during court, sitting, absorbing everything, a picturesque view on the dais, flawless fair complexion, dark as night hair, and striking blue eyes.

Dante is every bit his goddess mother’s son, the epitome of beauty.

Cedric leans forward in his chair, hands folded together on the table. “What did you have in mind?” If I had to guess, I would say he sounds relieved Dante offers another option. I suppose a dragon eating his son isn’t a pleasant idea.

The demigod stands and paces in a small circle, brows knit together in contemplative focus, coming to an abrupt halt, turning and meeting my eyes. He says nothing, staring, and the entire room buzzes, strange electricity in the air.

His gaze rises, beyond me. “I will marry her, Theo.” And I’m certain my heart stops. “You trust me, do you not?”

“Are you all insane?” I scream, slamming my hands on the table, jumping out of my seat. So much for remaining quiet. “I refuse to sit here feeling like I’m being auctioned off to the highest bidder.” I sure as Hades do not want to deal with Neglected Dependent Services, but this is ridiculous. Why the king involves himself on a personal level in my situation is beyond comprehension.

King Corrin glares daggers at me, or past me to Theo, but I’m damned sure he’s not happy about a woman rebuking anything he says. However, Dante smirks as he watches my outburst. Behind me, the dragon clears his throat.

“I do believe Miss Hayden makes a valid point to be considered.” He places his hand on my shoulder, encouraging me to sit again, and I do so, grudgingly. Across the table, the king’s brother buries his face in his hands, but he’s not laughing. “While it is understandable the monarchy cannot abide by the breaking of sovereign laws, Miss Hayden is indeed a woman of means. At our ages, it is quite conceivable to liken her wealth and social stature to noble ladies of eras past, one whose suitors would vie for her affections, for the right to win her hand in marriage.”

While I’m somehow seeing this whole situation going in reverse, dragging me into the damned dark ages worse than society already, there might be a light at the end of the tunnel this dragon walks through. Choices. Women of means had choices back then. I for one would like them back.

“A duel?” The monarch’s eyes brighten, displaying his fangs in a Cheshire grin.

Sir Oliver grimaces. “I doubt a duel is quite the answer, Sire. Regardless of your expertise as a swordsman, even my skill is negligible over Theo’s.”

The room quiets until Evan sits back in his chair, its squeaking breaking the silence. “I suggest vying for her affections in the most literal sense. I’ve said before I disagree with arranged marriages, but if she must choose amongst you then at the very least, allow she find the most happiness.” He plays with the wedding band on his finger. “Is it asking too much she have the opportunity to perhaps marry out of some measure of love?”

Whether his concerns fall to his brother trapped in a loveless marriage or my best interests, I don’t venture guesses, but I appreciate his disapproval.

“Would it most please Miss Hayden, I am agreeable to such a compromise,” states Theo, though his tone declares him anything other than agreeable.

Dante nods, remaining in his apparent standard state of existence, thoughtful and contemplative. “As am I.”

With an irritated huff, King Corrin drops back into his chair. “Fine. It is agreed.” His icy stare stays on me as he speaks. “But she must be moved to a secure location where she remains of equal accessibility. Aside from her safety quite lacking, from this point forward, regardless of who ultimately gains victory, I declare her status as betrothed and under the protection of the clan. Should Miss Hayden be incapable of making this decision for herself within seven days, sovereign law prevails, and I shall either choose her husband or relinquish her to NDS.”

“Seven days! What? And you expect me to leave my home? No! Not in Hades’ name will I do any such thing.” Refraining from calling the king insane, out of his mind, or gone mad, I’m adamant in this, but Theo rests one hand on my shoulder calming me, his touch desirable in its soothing effect.

My request to live as an independent woman was a long shot, to say the least. … And NDS is a worst-case scenario for someone in my position. This … I release a quiet exhale and nod in compliance. This is better than the alternatives. None of these men need the wealth or power of Hayden Holdings. I’m not a wrung in their social ladder. Choosing between the king, Dante, and Theo Pendragon … I should be thankful, not insolent. Most women would kill to be in my designer shoes.   
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The Belgrave Daughter as BOTM's

January 30: January 2014 changed my life as a published author. A book club read  The Belgrave Daughter  and gave it 5 stars! I also Skyped with them for an hour (after they had already talked about my book in length for 2 hours). It was definitely one of the most satisfying moments of my life.

Tonight, I Skyped with a book club who read (and LOVED) #TheBelgraveDaughter #awesomesauce

— Zara Hoffman (@AuthZH) January 31, 2014

March 1: For March (my birthday month), the amazing Goodreads group Addicted to Novels - YA Books and More has named my book one of their Book of the Months. If you're part of the group, you can chime in on the Book Club Discussion. I'm very excited for this!

#TheBelgraveDaughter is a Goodreads Book of the Month (BOTM)! YAY! http://t.co/ctMLbidV3x pic.twitter.com/SaujQ8ztbL

— Zara Hoffman (@AuthZH) March 1, 2014

Being Brave: Driver's Ed

Today was my first Driver's Ed class (driving and lecture). This morning, my mom said "relax, you won't be driving today." Well, she was wrong. No sooner had my new friend (she's from a different school) and I introduced ourselves to our instructor, that he asked, "Who's going first?" I made her go first, but when I went, it wasn't as bad as I feared it would be. Daunting, but not absolutely terrifying.

Later, the lecturer was telling us that the first thing we would learn about was turning, and that we would start with right turns, then left turns, but that none of it would start until later. My new friend and I looked at each other. We both had made left and right turns during our driving earlier that morning.

Anyway, it was a very exciting morning. The next 15 Saturdays, I'll be learning how to drive... how exciting!!! 

Being Brave: College Process

2/9/14: Being a high school junior means Second Semester is the beginning of the College Mania. We are expected to complete a ridiculously long questionnaire packet and the Common Application in 1 week before we can meet with our counselor for the first of 4 meetings, go on visits, and have a list before summer. Stressful, right?

Maybe, maybe not. I've already finished my CommonApp, know my essay topic, am half-way done with the packet, and have been compiling attributes I would like my college to have. So while I'm in no way fully ready to embark on this journey, I know that if I stay organized and keep a level head, everything will work out fine. At least, that's what I hope.

Queen of Hearts: The Crown

Blossoming Love. A Father’s Betrayal. A Kingdom with a Black Secret.

As Princess of Wonderland Palace and the future Queen of Hearts, Dinah’s days are an endless monotony of tea, tarts, and a stream of vicious humiliations at the hands of her father, the King of Hearts. The only highlight of her days is visiting Wardley, her childhood best friend, the future Knave of Hearts — and the love of her life.

When an enchanting stranger arrives at the Palace, Dinah watches as everything she’s ever wanted threatens to crumble. As her coronation date approaches, a series of suspicious and bloody events suggests that something sinister stirs in the whimsical halls of Wonderland. It’s up to Dinah to unravel the mysteries that lurk both inside and under the Palace before she loses her own head to a clever and faceless foe.

Part epic fantasy, part twisted fairy tale, this dazzling saga will have readers shivering as Dinah’s furious nature sweeps Wonderland up in the maelstrom of her wrath. Familiar characters such as Cheshire, the White Rabbit, and the Mad Hatter make their appearance, enchanting readers with this new, dark take on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. 

But be warned…not every fairytale has a happy ending.

This is the story of a princess who became a villain.

Add on Goodreads | Buy on Amazon My Review This book was absolutely amazing. Queen of Hearts gives the audience a new perspective to the old tales of Wonderland (from Carroll, to Disney Animation and Tim Burton's adaptations). As an avid reader and a huge fan of both retellings and anything Wonderland-related, this was my perfect cup of tea. Colleen Oakes artfully weaves in the original hints of the Queen of Hearts and the White Queen's relationship from Carroll's stories while simultaneously creating a unique and wondrous backstory that endears readers to Princess Dinah. The main character's struggles of wanting a father's love and the complications of being princess, jealousy, and young love make this an intriguing and complex narrative that pulls at your heartstrings from beginning to end. I cannot wait for the next installment! I give it 5 stars (or crowns, as the case may be). Giveaway About the Author


Colleen Oakes is the author of the Elly in Bloom series and the upcoming YA fantasy Queen of Hearts Saga, both published via SparkPress, a BookSparks imprint. She lives in North Denver with her husband and son. When not writing, Colleen enjoys swimming, traveling, and immersing herself in nerdy pop culture. She is currently at work on the last Elly novel and her second YA fantasy series, Wendy Darling.


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ZH Press: Upgrade

I have decided to get a brand redesign by the amazing Hafsah Laziaf of  IceyDesigns. We've been emailing back and forth a lot, and the preliminary designs are amazing! I'm getting a new logo, blog button, and new website. It's beautiful, and happens to use a palette called "Sherlock" with all my favorite colors, so obviously I'm happy.



And that's not the only thing getting updated. As I mentioned before, The Belgrave Daughter will be revised for a new edition that will release in tandem with the sequel, Tears of an Angel. 

Being Brave: Responsibility

Last Friday, I participated in my CP's Cover Reveal of her debut novel, Fire of Stars and Dragons (see it here), but starting on January 22, 2014, I have been operating her Official Twitter Fan Account (@TeamDracopraesi), and yesterday (2/2/14) she gave me the official title of "Personal PR Assistant"! Now if that isn't exciting, I don't know what is. Ever since, I've been putting together a mini-blog tour for her because her book got selected to go on Pre-Order starting Feb 28 (it's really exciting) and I'm getting great work experience.

In other news, this Saturday I registered for Driver's Ed and next Monday I start having College Meetings (and should get my SAT scores back). A lot is happening, and I'm super excited! For anyone wondering, I'm still working on Tears of an Angel  and am almost 20% done (you can keep track on the book page or in the blog sidebar).