Sorcha O'Dowd's Blog, page 31
September 15, 2014
Book Review ~ ‘Handpicked’ by Dani Oden.
Handpicked by Dani Oden
The Pledged Series #1
Genres: New Adult, Romance, Suspense
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SYNOPSIS
College freshman Jill Holloway takes one look at the stuck-up girls going through sorority rush and nearly returns her borrowed dress and heels. Against her best judgment, she ends up falling for the prestige and parties, and snagging a bid from a top house. After moving in, she quickly grows skeptical of her too-perfect sorority sisters. She tries to ask questions, though no one will take time from their busy social calendar to give her any real answers.
Jill wastes no time digging for everything she’s not supposed to find, and soon comes face-to-face with a big and bloody secret hidden in her sorority’s basement. She knows she’s in over her head, but taking off so soon would raise the perfectly-plucked eyebrows of her suspicious new sisters. She’s stuck until she can make a smooth exit.
But the closer she gets to leaving, the more it becomes clear that it won’t be as simple as she hoped. A tempting fraternity guy, a best friend who needs her, and new details about what has really been happening in the basement have her questioning what her next move should be, and whether or not it’ll be worth the risks.
HANDPICKED is a New Adult coming of age, with elements of suspense and romance.
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Book Review ~ ‘Handpicked’ by Dani Oden ~ 5 Stars!
‘Handpicked’ was just what I needed on my reading list. I’d just started a new job and in the short time between shifts I found myself struggling to connect with a story and characters in the short spans of my reading time, but when I started ‘Handpicked’ straight away I knew this would be different.
I adored this story, with its brilliant, fun and suspenseful writing style which was balanced perfectly throughout the novel, as well as the really unique interpretation of a sorority house at college. Being from the UK, we don’t have anything similar in terms of sorority’s and pledging, so being given an insight into this world was really exciting and great fun to read.
Jill was a brilliant heroine for our story as she was just a young girl trying to fit in, which made her so relatable to me, and therefore making me root for her throughout the book. I loved the relationship she had with her best friend, and how she was pledging because she wanted to stay with her. The introduction of Hannah, another girl pledging in the same house, was brilliantly done, and the three had a great banter going about, making them the perfect trio for this book. I really felt for all of them, and the pains they were going through, so it was great to see how the events of the story affected all three of them equally.
The suspense in this story was paced perfectly, and I adored all the little nudges and worries that rubbed off on me from Jill’s uncertainty, which made reading the mystery scenes all that more real and nerve-wracking. The mystery storyline flowed beautifully throughout the book, and didn’t detract from any of the other elements of the story and vice versa. Dani Oden has done a fantastic job at making this story flow realistically, and allowing the mystery elements of the story to unwind at a slow and suspenseful pace.
The introduction of the boys at the fraternity house gave this book a wonderful romantic element that warmed my heart. I loved Tad and his quiet but understanding nature, as well as how much of a gentleman he was to Jill throughout the beginning of their relationship. If the next books in the series are to focus on Jill again, I’d love to see more of their relationship as it was beautiful to read.
Overall this was fun and suspenseful, a perfect read when you just want a few hours to yourself. I laughed, cringed and cried along with the characters, and can’t wait to see more from Dani Oden soon.
*Review copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
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Dani Oden
~ Twitter ~
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Book Blitz ~ ‘Dark Roses Boxed Set’
Dark Roses: Eight New York Times, USA Today or Best Selling Authors of Paranormal Romance
Authors – P.T. Michelle, Trisha Leigh, Anthea Sharp, Lola St. Vil, Terah Edun, Erica Cope, Cameron Jace, Sarra Cannon
Publication date: September 15th 2014
Genres: Paranormal, Romance
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SYNOPSIS
Eight bestselling authors. Eight stories of paranormal romance. Eight series to take your breath away. From kick-ass cheerleaders to leaders of the fae, these teenage girls are out to save their worlds, one unforgettable adventure at a time. The only thing standing in their way – love, loss & a little magic.From NYT & USA Today Bestselling author, P.T. MICHELLE – BRIGHTEST KIND OF DARKNESS — Nara Collins is an average sixteen-year-old, with one exception: every night she dreams the events of the following day. Due to an incident in her past, Nara avoids using her special gift to change fate…until she dreams a future she can’t ignore.
From USA Today bestselling author LYLA PAYNE, writing as TRISHA LEIGH – WHISPERS IN AUTUMN — For sixteen years, Althea has been alone in her ability to feel emotion, to think for herself, and on occasion, light things on fire. The autumn brings a boy named Lucas to town, along with unwanted scrutiny from the alien race of Others that rule Earth, and if she wants to live to see winter Althea will have to stop hiding–and start fighting
From USA Today bestselling author, ANTHEA SHARP – FEYLAND: THE DARK REALM — Jennet Carter never thought hacking into her dad’s new epic-fantasy sim-game would be so exciting… or dangerous. But behind the interface, dark forces lie in wait, leading her toward a battle that will test her to her limits and cost her more than she ever imagined.
From bestselling author, LOLA ST. VIL – GUARDIANS: THE GIRL — The prophecy says “should human and angel unite, it will bring the end of the human race…” Yet Emmy & Marcus can’t fight their feelings. All they want is to be together; the only way for us to survive is to keep them apart…
From bestselling author, TERAH EDUN – WITCHES FINISH FIRST — Witch. Daughter. Queen. Katherine is second-in-line in a provincial town ruled by her coven. But she’s about to learn that the hierarchy of witches first, fae second, and humans last isn’t set in stone…at least not in high school.
From bestselling author, ERICA COPE – LARK — An ordinary girl. An ordinary life. Until her Elfin heritage comes to light. Mia Carrington discovers she’s the heir to the kingdom of Álfheimr in the most unexpected way. But it’s the Dark Elves that pursue her that have her world turned upside down, because they will let no one and nothing stop them from claiming her.
From bestselling author, CAMERON JACE – PENTIMENTO — On her seventeenth birthday she comes of age. Her seventeen birthday is also the day the Beasts come for her. After the destruction of the world these rulers of new America provide safety and services to human in exchange for one new teenage girl every week. They call them the Brides, and they never come back.
From bestselling author, SARRA CANNON – BEAUTIFUL DEMONS –
Harper Madison’s inability to control her extraordinary powers has gotten her kicked from countless foster homes. Shadowford Home for Girls and Peachville High are her last chance. But when evidence ties her to the gruesome murder of a Demons cheerleader, Harper discovers this small town has a big secret.
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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~ iTunes ~
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EXCERPT FROM GUARDIANS: THE GIRL
She looks at me. She has no response. There was nothing she could have said that the two of us didn’t already know. I take her hands. She had started crying. I wipe her tears away with my hand.
“I can’t save the world, Marcus. I’m not strong enough.”
“You can’t save the world, you don’t know the world. So you have to focus and narrow it down to the people you do know—your mom, your uncle, your neighbors. You have to fight for the people that you love. You. Have. To. Fight.”
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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September 14, 2014
Book Blitz ~ ‘The Reason I Stay’ by Patty Maximini.
The Reason I Stay by Patty Maximini
Publication date: September 10th 2014
Genres: New Adult, Romance
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SYNOPSIS
Jack Daniels is the cure to all evils.
Sex should be casual and, preferably, anonymous.
Giving a damn is for nurses, philanthropists and suicide hotlines.
My name is Mathew Rogers and those are the values I built my adult life around. They are also the reason I had to forsake everything I loved in Seattle and embark on a solitary road trip across the country, with no direction other than searching for the next small town, the next girl, and the closest liquor store.
Boredom, frustration and a series of unfortunate decisions led me to the rickety-ass town of Jolene, Alabama—a town I wanted to leave behind from the moment I passed the welcome sign. But it was there where I met her. The girl who made me question everything I’ve always believed in, and the only one who has ever had the power to break my heart.
Her name is Lexie.
She’s beautiful, and I’m pretty sure she hates me.
And for once in my life, I give enough of a damn that I keep finding a reason to stay.
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Tanie laughs, and raises a brow. “He’s hot.”
“That he is,” I reply.
Jill yells, “Water break,” behind us.
The two girls abandon the ball and run breathless toward us, Matthew trailing behind.
“You, too, Matthew.” She waves him over and, to my absolutely horror, adds, “These gals thought you might be hot. Actually, they both said you were, and by the looks of the sweat in your hair, I think a little water break’ll be good for you.”
“Is that right?” He quirks his lips as he strides casually toward Jill.
His gaze travels from Jill to me to Tanie, and then back to me, where it lingers. I’m at the same time humiliated and dying to roll on my back and laugh until my stomach hurts, but all I can do is stare at him. His eyes are wide and filled with mirth. He stops right in front of me.
“You all think right. I’m really hot.”
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10 Random things about THE REASON I STAY
THE REASON I STAY was originally entitled Madeleine, which was also Lexie’s original name.
In my first outline the story was set in LA and Matt worked as a special effects makeup artist for the film industry.
Creating the fictional town of Jolene, Alabama, was suggestion from my husband.
Whenever I describe the color of Lexie’s nail polish in the book, I’m actually describing the color I had on that week.
Lexie was originally a strawberry blonde, but then I saw the photo that would become the cover of the book and I knew she was a golden blonde.
It took me a solid month to write chapter six. When I finally finished it, I cried and danced like a crazy person, which scared my cat so badly she spent the afternoon behind the fridge.
Lexie’s car is named Quick in honor of my bunny, Quicksilver. He had two strokes in February and spent about two months recovering on my lap while I wrote. He’s doing amazing now, by the way.
All of my beta readers received little cameos. They were very happy about them.
Like Matt, I’ve never had chocolate chip pancakes. Like Lexie, I find the concept fantastic.
Cash, Lexie’s dog was created in honor of one of my husband’s childhood dogs who suffered a lot in the hands of mean people, but was thoroughly loved by his human best friend.
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Open INTL – Ends September 22nd
*15x eBook copies of The Reason I Stay*
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Patty Maximini
Hopeless dreamer, tattoo enthusiast, Disney addict and hoarder of nail polishes and vegan recipes. Patty lives with her husband, her crazy cat, two dogs and elderly bunny in a house frequently visited by wild birds and chipmunks.
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~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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September 12, 2014
Book Blitz ~ ‘Stay’ by Emily Goodwin.
Stay by Emily Goodwin
Publication date: May 19th 2014
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense
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SYNOPSIS
“I felt like I was walking to the end of a plank precariously hanging over shark-infested water. When I jumped, sharp teeth would rip into me and the cold water would steal my breath away. The monsters would take everything from me, leaving me shivering and naked in the water. The only difference was that tonight I would be pulled from the icy darkness and forced to do it again. There would be no release from death, only pain.”
Home after her first year of college, Adeline Miller is looking forward to a stress free summer filled with reading, working on her blog, and spending time with friends. But all that changes in an instant when she is witness to something terrible, something she wasn’t supposed to see.
Beaten, drugged, kidnapped.
Adeline Miller is ripped from her innocent and carefree life and thrust into darkness, into a world full of pain and horror. As a sex slave, she is forced to do horrible things, and have horrible things done to her. One of her captors has a past as dark as the world she is now living in. Will getting close to him mean freedom? Or will he pull her deeper into the shadows?
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Since I typically write paranormal/horror, my usual writing playlists are filled with epic songs from soundtracks with lots of NIN and Marilyn Manson thrown in. With STAY, I needed something different. While this novel is just as dark—if not darker—than the books I usually write, it’s a different kind of dark.
STAY is the first book I’ve written with a contemporary setting and no elements of fantasy. And yet it was one of the scariest books I’ve ever written. After all, the truth is often worse than fiction. Unlike ghosts, demons, and zombies, being kidnapped and forced into human trafficking is something that really could happen.
I needed music that set the mood for not only fear, but a sense of hopelessness and utter despair the characters felt. I am not a fan of slow, sad music, so this is as close at it comes for me. Here is the playlist I listened to on repeat while writing STAY
Imagine Dragons- Demons
Of Monster and Men- Little Talks
Imagine Dragons- Bleeding Out
One Republic- Counting Stars
One Republic- Come Home
Animals- House of the Rising Sun
Tom Petty- Free Fallin’
Tom Petty- Mary Jane’s Last Dance
One Republic- Secrets
Coldplay- Fix You
Goo Goo Dolls- Iris
Tom Petty- I Won’t Back Down
Jason Mraz- I Won’t Give Up
Katy Perry- Unconditionally
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Emily Goodwin
Emily Goodwin is the author of the award winning Contagium Series published by Permuted Press as well as many independently published novels, including the internationally bestselling novel, STAY. Emily writes in a wide variety of genres, from horror to romance. She holds multiple degrees in psychology and nursing and has worked in mental health and general healthcare. Emily resides in Indiana with her husband, daughter, and German Shepherd named Vader. Along with writing, Emily enjoys riding her horse, designing and making costumes, and Cosplay.
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~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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Book Blitz ~ ‘Stay’ by Emily Goodwin.
Stay by Emily Goodwin
Publication date: May 19th 2014
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense
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SYNOPSIS
“I felt like I was walking to the end of a plank precariously hanging over shark-infested water. When I jumped, sharp teeth would rip into me and the cold water would steal my breath away. The monsters would take everything from me, leaving me shivering and naked in the water. The only difference was that tonight I would be pulled from the icy darkness and forced to do it again. There would be no release from death, only pain.”
Home after her first year of college, Adeline Miller is looking forward to a stress free summer filled with reading, working on her blog, and spending time with friends. But all that changes in an instant when she is witness to something terrible, something she wasn’t supposed to see.
Beaten, drugged, kidnapped.
Adeline Miller is ripped from her innocent and carefree life and thrust into darkness, into a world full of pain and horror. As a sex slave, she is forced to do horrible things, and have horrible things done to her. One of her captors has a past as dark as the world she is now living in. Will getting close to him mean freedom? Or will he pull her deeper into the shadows?
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Since I typically write paranormal/horror, my usual writing playlists are filled with epic songs from soundtracks with lots of NIN and Marilyn Manson thrown in. With STAY, I needed something different. While this novel is just as dark—if not darker—than the books I usually write, it’s a different kind of dark.
STAY is the first book I’ve written with a contemporary setting and no elements of fantasy. And yet it was one of the scariest books I’ve ever written. After all, the truth is often worse than fiction. Unlike ghosts, demons, and zombies, being kidnapped and forced into human trafficking is something that really could happen.
I needed music that set the mood for not only fear, but a sense of hopelessness and utter despair the characters felt. I am not a fan of slow, sad music, so this is as close at it comes for me. Here is the playlist I listened to on repeat while writing STAY
Imagine Dragons- Demons
Of Monster and Men- Little Talks
Imagine Dragons- Bleeding Out
One Republic- Counting Stars
One Republic- Come Home
Animals- House of the Rising Sun
Tom Petty- Free Fallin’
Tom Petty- Mary Jane’s Last Dance
One Republic- Secrets
Coldplay- Fix You
Goo Goo Dolls- Iris
Tom Petty- I Won’t Back Down
Jason Mraz- I Won’t Give Up
Katy Perry- Unconditionally
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Emily Goodwin
Emily Goodwin is the author of the award winning Contagium Series published by Permuted Press as well as many independently published novels, including the internationally bestselling novel, STAY. Emily writes in a wide variety of genres, from horror to romance. She holds multiple degrees in psychology and nursing and has worked in mental health and general healthcare. Emily resides in Indiana with her husband, daughter, and German Shepherd named Vader. Along with writing, Emily enjoys riding her horse, designing and making costumes, and Cosplay.
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~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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September 11, 2014
Book Review ~ ‘The Devil’s Contract’ by Claire Contreras!
The Devil’s Contract by Claire Contreras
(Contracts and Deceptions #1)
Genres: Dark, Erotica, Romance.
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SYNOPSIS
He gave them a choice.
She took it.
He made her promise two years.
She should have known there was a catch.
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Book Review ~ ‘The Devil’s Contract’ by Claire Contreras ~ 5 Stars!
‘The Devil’s Contract’ was just mind-blowingly awesome! This was the first book I’d read by the author, and I knew within the first few pages that it wouldn’t be the last. ‘The Devil’s Contract’ tells the emotional, heartbreaking yet also powerful and inspirational of our young heroine Amara, who will do anything to protect and help those that she loves, even if it means giving up her rights as a human being.
I loved the dark undertones throughout this book which would twist and writhe throughout the different characters storylines, building and crashing down at multiple interviews throughout the book. This made the book so unique in terms of pacing and I just adored the unexpected and constant twists in the story that had my mind blown! I adored the whole storyline that included Chloe/Courtenay and portrayed a very different, but very real interpretation of some practices such as the strong relationships formed between the females who work together, and the protective stances they take over each other and shared love that in some ways can be even more touching than the most beautiful and passionate of romantic relationships.
But the winner in this book for me, which made me connect to it on such a deep level was the wonderful creation of Colin. My heart just broke for him and Amara as I could feel the connection between them, even after their painful separation and the miles between them. The cliff-hanger at the end of this book almost killed me, and was such a game changer that I can’t wait to see how this effects their relationship in the next book, because damn was that just amazing, hot and thrilling!
I think some readers may not understand Amara’s reasoning for not telling Colin the truth by her leaving, and in some ways I can agree, but she left everything she knew out of fear and love for her friends and family, and that made Amara, for me, the bravest and most amazing heroine for this book and despite my heartbreak over her and Colin’s separation and the way that she felt he was slipping from her, I really felt that the strength of her love for her mother made her so admirable and had me raging at both her father and Philip for taking advantage of her good nature and her desire to protect her mother.
This book just blew my mind and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! Hurry up release date!!!
5 stars!
*Review copy was provided by the author through Wordsmith Publicity in exchange for an honest review*
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Claire Contreras.
~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Website ~
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Book Blitz ~ ‘Inevitable Detour’ by S.R. Grey.
Inevitable Detour by S.R. Grey
(Inevitability #1)
Publication date: September 7th 2014
Genres: New Adult, Romance, Suspense
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SYNOPSIS
The day my life took an inevitable detour things got a little crazy.
My name is Essalin Brant, but everyone calls me Essa. I attend a small college in a tiny town, and in my twenty-two years of life I’ve never even traveled outside the state of Pennsylvania. You could say my life is pretty boring. I live by the rules. I’m a good girl and nothing exciting ever happens.
But that’s all about to change.
Enter Farren Shaw. Not only is he older and intimidating, but he’s more sure of himself than any 29-year-old man has a right to be. Did I mention that he’s drop-dead gorgeous? Well, he is. He also happens to be my best friend Haven’s brother. And I would be content with just fantasizing about Farren from afar, but when Haven suddenly goes missing, her gorgeous brother is the only one who believes me when I say she was abducted, even though all signs seem to suggest Haven left town willingly.
I know better, though. As does Farren. So when he asks me to accompany him to search for his sister, I accept.
That’s when the real adventure begins.
Our quest to find Haven takes us across the country. And throughout the time we spend together, I find myself falling for Farren . . . falling hard. He’s everything I’ve ever wanted. But is he really someone I should fear?
Because aside from making me feel things I’ve never felt before, Farren is hiding something. Something big. What could this stunning man be keeping from me? And why? Is Haven’s disappearance somehow connected to his mysterious job?
All I know is that things are about to get real.
Welcome to the Inevitable Detour that has become my life.
**mature themes**
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I suddenly want to hug Farren, kiss him, love him…
Did I just say love?
Before I have a chance to unwind that statement and analyze it, Farren scoots over, keeping me in place until he’s completely under me, our faces inches apart. He slides his hand under the back of my tank top and says, “Do you want me to tell you more stories, or do you want me to touch you?”
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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~
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*Open INTL – Ends September 22nd*
*$25 Amazon gift card*
*5x eBook copy of Inevitable Detour*
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Your two prior series, Harbour Falls and Judge Me Not, fall into the Romantic Suspense and New Adult genres, respectively. Which genre does your new series, Inevitability, best fit?
Inevitable Detour (Inevitability #1) is a New Adult novel first and foremost. The heroine, Essa Brant, is a college student, twenty-two, who is trying to find her place in the world. She’s learning about life and love while dealing with many unexpected things. Farren Shaw, the hero, is somewhat of a mystery. The circumstances surrounding him add the elements of Romantic Suspense to the novel, as do the situations they get involved in because of Farren. So, in that sense, Inevitable Detour is both New Adult and Romantic Suspense in terms of genres.
Speaking of the heroes in your novels, all three—Adam from Harbour Falls, Chase from I Stand Before You, and Farren Shaw from Inevitable Detour—have strong alpha-male attributes. Compare and contrast the three men.
True, they are all alphas! I think we all like reading about handsome, strong men who love and care for their ladies. All my lead male characters are like that. They are loyal and committed once they know they’re in love.
Now, for the differences.
Adam Ward (Harbour Falls trilogy) is a super-successful businessman. He’s rich, brilliant, and used to getting his way. Chase Gartner (Judge Me Not series) is the quintessential bad boy. He’s tatted, tall, and beautiful. He’s a man who has seen and done it all—fighting, drugs, alcohol, women. Chase has even served time in prison. But he’s also an alpha looking to heal his fractured past and find peace in the present with the love of his life, Kay.
Then, there is Farren Shaw (Inevitability series). He is probably the most alpha of the three men. He’s ex-military, Special Forces, a man not to be trifled with. He can kick ass, and when he falls for Essa Brant, he’ll do anything for her. The readers will discover a sweet, thoughtful side to this strong and silent man when he’s around Essa. Still waters run deep and all that jazz.
There are a couple of shockers in Inevitable Detour, particularly toward the final chapters. And that ending…. I need book #2, Inevitable Circumstances, like yesterday. When can we expect it?
True, there are a couple of surprises, some bigger than others. I’m purposely being cryptic to avoid spoilers. In any case, the second novel of the duology will be in reader’s hands Spring 2015. Not too long of a wait, right?
How did Inevitable Detour come about? What was the first grain of that idea?
Oh, good question. Actually, I thought the story would be something very different when the idea first came to me. I had the characters in my head, Farren and Essa, and I saw turmoil, but I wasn’t sure what kind and/or why.
The first scene I imagined and wrote was Farren and Essa at the Blue Cactus Inn. I saw the neon hotel sign, bathing the room in blue. I saw them taking shots, having fun, and I knew this night would be a pivotal point in their relationship. It all came together from that point on.
Final fun question… Chocolate or vanilla?
Chocolate!
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S.R. Grey
S.R. Grey is an Amazon and Barnes & Noble Top 100 Bestselling author. She is the author of the popular New Adult novels I Stand Before You (Judge Me Not #1) and Never Doubt Me (Judge Me Not #2). Her newest novel, Inevitable Detour (Inevitability #1), is a wild ride combining the New Adult genre with elements of Romantic Suspense. She is also the author of the Harbour Falls Mystery trilogy. Ms. Grey’s novels have appeared on Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestseller lists in multiple categories, including Amazon Top 30 and Barnes & Noble Top 5.
New novels slated for 2015 release dates are Just Let Me Love You (Judge Me Not #3), Inevitable Circumstances (Inevitability #2), and a New Adult novel to be revealed in the future.
Ms. Grey resides in Pennsylvania. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree, as well as an MBA. Her background is in business, but her true passion lies in writing. When not writing, Ms. Grey can be found reading, traveling, running, or cheering for her hometown sports teams.
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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September 10, 2014
Book Blitz ~ ‘Charming the Outback’ by Leesa Bow.
Charming the Outback by Leesa Bow
Published by: Destiny Romance
Publication date: September 2nd 2014
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
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SYNOPSIS
When jaded city girl Maddy McIntyre packs up and leaves Adelaide for a new job in the country, it’s not only a chance at a fresh start. Six months ago, the first guy she’d ever loved shattered her heart before moving home to Broken Hill. Deep down inside, Maddy is hoping that living in the same town will give her an opportunity to prove to Luke that she’s one temptation he can’t resist.
But when she arrives in Broken Hill, Luke White is not the same guy she knew in the city. And it soon seems very clear that he doesn’t want her there. Although Maddy settles in quickly, excelling at work and partying with her new friends, she can’t understand why Luke is remaining so distant. Particularly when all her instincts are telling her that they’re meant to be together – and that he feels the same burning attraction.
As Maddy learns more about Luke’s family and background, she begins to understand that his mixed messages are caused by balancing what’s expected of him with what he really wants. Maddy gave Luke her heart long ago and, despite their differences, she knows she’ll only ever be happy with her hot country boy. But how can she convince him that she’s the risk he needs to take?
Facebook party: The author is having a Facebook Release party on Friday 5th September 4.45pm PDT and everyone is invited. There will be 20 authors giving away books as prizes. here’s the link if anyone wants to attend:
~ Facebook ~
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~YouTube~
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Chapter One
‘It’s like something out of Wolf Creek.‘ Aubree’s brow furrowed as she gazed at the long, straight road ahead.
My fingers tightened around the steering wheel as I squinted through the haze reflecting off the sizzling bitumen. ‘Sure is,’ I mumbled. ‘Where the hell are we?’ Saltbush dotted the landscape on either side of the road, and in the distance three rocky pinnacles broke through the flat, barren horizon. I swallowed, hoping we weren’t lost.
Aubree dropped her iPhone into her bag. ‘No internet.’ She pulled a map from the glove box and unfolded it. ‘Have we passed through Yunta yet?’
‘Yeah, you blinked,’ I said and laughed. ‘You dozed off for a few minutes.’
Her finger trailed along the paper. ‘Okay. So we should make it to Broken Hill in about an hour. Do you have another map of the town so I can work out how to get to your new home?’
New home. My stomach rolled with excitement and nerves, hearing her say the words. Two months ago I signed a teaching contract, believing it to be an opportunity to prove myself, take responsibility for my future, even if it was 500 kilometres from home.
‘Nope, don’t need one. The real estate agent said to follow the road into town, pass the cemetery, turn right before the school, travel a kilometre down the road and turn left into Cornish Street.’
Aubree fetched her phone out of her bag for the zillionth time. ‘I’ve got nothing. No mobile coverage, not even one bar. We’re all alone out here.’
‘Look.’ I pointed to something red at the roadside ahead.
‘Oh God,’ she said. ‘Please don’t tell me it’s another kangaroo carcass. I feel sick thinking that a joey could be alive inside.’ She turned her head to the window. ‘Wait. Stop the car.’
‘They’re only wildflowers. What’s your problem?’ I veered to the left and slowed to a safe speed on loose gravel.
‘I’ve read about these wildflowers. The Sturt Desert Pea,’ she said excitedly. ‘They’re exquisite.’ Aubree jumped out of the car and walked to the plant growing alongside the gravel. She kneeled in a delicate manner so as not to dirty her lemon maxidress.
I opened my door and followed. I gasped when she started picking handfuls of the red and black flower. ‘What are you doing?’
‘Collecting some for your house.’
I flicked flies from my face before saying, ‘It doesn’t feel right. I mean, are you allowed?’ We both jumped when a truck roared past on the opposite side of the road and sounded the horn. ‘See?‘ I said.
Aubree rolled her eyes. ‘You’re wearing tiny denim shorts, Mads. I think he’s honking at you.’
I ignored her comment. My shoulders burned under the midday sun, introducing me to the extreme weather of outback Australia. Flies hammered my face and had formed a polka-dot pattern on Aubree’s back. Gross.
Before climbing back into the car we flapped our arms as though we were about to take flight, ensuring no flies snuck inside. I turned the air con to max and glanced at Aubree, fiddling with the flowers.
Oh shit. She wasn’t wearing her ring. I clearly remembered Hunter – my cousin and superstar football player – telling her in no uncertain terms that she was to wear the pink diamond ring, a twenty-first birthday gift, on her wedding finger while accompanying me for the weekend. I cleared my throat.
‘Where’s your ring?’
Aubree pulled her hair-tie out of her long hair before looping it around the flower stems. ‘Oh, I left it home in case I lost it.’
‘What? You know Hunter will be pissed.’
‘I hid it so he’ll never find out,’ she said, and waved her hand in a nonchalant manner.
I groaned. ‘You want to hope he doesn’t. The last thing I need is Hunter showing up and ruining everything for me.’ I gave her a look before turning my eyes back to the road.
‘First of all, I don’t need a ring to protect me from guys wanting to talk with me. And second, I’m not sure how he’d ruin things for you. Unless . . .’ I could feel her eyes on me, scrutinising. ‘Be honest, does your decision to move to Broken Hill have anything to do with Luke?’
I glanced at her. ‘No, why would it?’
‘Because you never really got over him. And now you’re taking up this teaching position – and I get that it’s a great opportunity – but it is in the same town he moved back to six months ago.’
My heartbeat stuttered. ‘It has nothing to do with Luke,’ I said, louder than necessary. ‘I was offered three teaching contracts: two were based in Adelaide working three days a week, and both an hour from my home. I needed full-time work and the only full-time contract was in the country. Plus there’s isolation bonuses, so I thought if I stayed a couple of years, I’d return to Adelaide with savings.’
‘So you don’t ever think about him?’
‘I didn’t say I don’t think about him but he’s not the reason—’
‘I knew it.’ She folded her arms across her chest. ‘He might not be the reason but he’s the incentive.’
‘Don’t read into it, Aubs. I only think about the things he used to say, that’s all.’
‘Aw, that’s sweet.’
‘You’re a drama queen,’ I quipped in a deep voice, mimicking Luke. ‘Can’t you go anywhere without being the centre of attention?’ I shook my head. ‘When he said it, it didn’t sound so sweet.’
‘He really said that?’
I nodded and pointed to the side of the road. ‘Four,’ I said, totalling the number of dead kangaroos I’d seen on the side of the road.
Aubree groaned. ‘Ew.’
We sat quietly for a few minutes before she broke the silence. ‘You know, you never told me the real reason why you two split. I thought after ten or so months you were both happy.’
It pained me to reveal the details of our breakup even to my best friend. Irreconcilable differences, isn’t that the term used? Except, in my mind, we were compatible and happy. It was Luke who – out of the blue – announced he no longer wanted to be part of a relationship, since he was returning home. He didn’t see the point. Hell of a way to make me feel special! I coughed.
‘I was happy, but Luke . . . Before he left he’d said that he’d found work back home as a geologist and was also helping out his uncle with the family business. He emphasised that he didn’t believe in long-distance relationships, plus he’d be too busy to worry about a girl.’
‘That’s rough.’
‘Yep. I was stupid enough to even beg him to give us a chance.’ I sighed, remembering the empty look on his face. ‘He didn’t hesitate, just said no.’
‘Wow.’
‘So I’m actually hoping not to see him, as I’m still embarrassed about the whole thing.’ Truth was, I hadn’t stopped thinking about Luke and deep down hoped to run into him – although not until I was settled, so he could see how well I’m doing.
‘Oh God,’ Aubree murmured. ‘It’s not one of those look-at-what-you-could’ve-had plans is it? Where you go to extreme lengths to prove yourself?’
‘Of course not. Why would you think that?’ I cringed when Aubree said it out loud.
‘Because you and Hunter are exactly alike,’ she admonished. She reached out and touched my hand. ‘I love you both but . . . just be careful. No one knows you here.’
‘That’s my point,’ I said quickly. ‘It’s a perfect scenario. I’m sick of being known as Hunter’s cousin and getting attention for all the wrong reasons. I can actually meet new friends with a clean slate. It’s like having a new identity. Luke thought I was an attention seeker and it bugged me. So, the last thing I want is Hunter showing up and causing a circus. And I hope there is no need for him to come here looking for you. So he better not find that ring.’
My gaze remained fixed on the road, although I could feel Aubree staring at me.
‘I’m really proud of you and don’t worry about Hunter, the ring is safe. Besides, he’ll have his hands full looking after Honey. She’s been naughty lately, ripping up his football socks and burying them in the backyard.’
I laughed, and at the same time strained my eyes to the distance. ‘Look.’
Aubree turned to the road and we both stared in silence. The sun reflected off rooftops rising out of the red dirt in the middle of bloody nowhere.
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Leesa Bow
Leesa Bow grew up in Broken Hill and later worked as a nurse at the local hospital before moving to Adelaide in her early twenties. Leesa began writing seriously when her second daughter became sick with cancer. Initially writing was therapeutic, but when her daughter got the all clear, she decided to continue writing seriously.
On weekends Leesa enjoys reading, watching basketball and football, having beach days with the family, catching up with girlfriends, and daydreaming about strong heroines for her next book.
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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September 9, 2014
Book Blitz ~ ‘The Undead: Playing for Keeps’ by Elsie Elmore.
The Undead: Playing for Keeps by Elsie Elmore
Published by: Curiosity Quills Press
Publication date: September 3rd 2014
Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult
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SYNOPSIS
When an undead woman with serious de-comp issues stalks sixteen-year-old Lyla Grimm, her hope of rescuing her rock-bottom reputation takes a back seat. Especially once Lyla’s new talent of resurrecting the dead draws the attention of Eric, a Grim Reaper with a guitar and a chip on his shoulder.
While Lyla navigates the gossip-ridden halls, Eric works to gain her trust and discover why Death’s clients aren’t staying down. If she passes on her gift, his death-messenger destiny might be altered. But the closer he gets to Lyla, the less sure he is of his plan. The dead are way easier to deal with than the living.
Gossip explodes, the Grimm family implodes, and desperation sets in. Death wants the gift and a soul. Lyla and Eric face hard choices with hidden consequences. Sometimes life’s choices aren’t really choices at all.
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The Undead: Playing for Keeps Excerpt
Chapter 2 : Eric
“Of all the places,” I mutter. Cornfields and pastures fill the passenger side window in a tortuous repeat. Mile after mile of nothingness. And inactivity. And boredom. “I’m in a small hellhole located in the middle of can’t-find-it-on-a-fucking-map. This is just perfect.”
I pull over and my headlights frame the tall green sign that proclaims the city limits for Martin. A thatch of dead grass surrounds the base of the pole.
“Bet that resembles the residents of this fine town,” I shout. No one’s ever around to hear me or respond.
I roll down the window and the scent of grass and dirt rolls in. There’s no exhaust, no cigarette smoke. The purity of the air confuses my lungs.
Just hours ago, I was in the beautiful and busy paradise of Miami, Florida, where anger, envy, and sin pollute every taken breath and every exposed mind. It’s one of my favorite places. There’s enough activity there to keep someone busy every hour of the day, which is why I want to return. Idle time has painful effects.
Only one car passes while I’m parked on the shoulder, contemplating my purgatory that now goes by the name of Martin.
The passenger handle clicks and the door opens. Deon lowers his head and peers in. “Heard you were coming.” He smiles and the dashboard lights give his teeth a red glow. “Welcome to Martin.”
I shrug. “Yeah. I’m here.”
“So why you?” he asks, his smile not fading.
“Beats the hell out of me.” Exhaust mixes with the night air and enters through the open car door. I take a deep breath.
“No, seriously, this is my territory. Why you?”
I survey my new terrain. Moonlight reveals more nothingness. “I’m not fighting you for it. I was sent. I didn’t have a choice.”
“No one really has a choice.” He slips his frail frame into the passenger seat and closes the door.
“What are you doing?”
“Going for a ride.” He taps the dash twice. “I’ll show you around.”
Understanding the territory will help. I pull back onto the road and my headlights only compete with the moon’s glow until we get closer to civilization. If you can call this actual civilization.
“You’re here as a punishment, aren’t you?”
“Judging by the look of this place, I’d say yeah.”
Deon laughs and adjusts the navy ball cap he wears low on his head. “Everyone knows about you.”
“Really?” I want to take back the word, or rather, my tone. It sounded as if I was interested.
“You’re too messy and over-the-top. You attract attention. And you’re undisciplined.”
I huff. “You finished?
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The evolution of The Undead: The importance of editing after time has passed
Photo Credit: Flickr by Jennifer Donley
Writing blogs often suggest letting your manuscript rest between edits. That time allows the story to become fresh again and offers you distance from your work.
The Undead began as a tale told only from Lyla’s vantage point. Her troubles at school were chronicled in detail, along with the tension at home, and oh yeah, the awakening of her ability to resurrect the dead. Eric was a character, but not a main character because we never understood his motivations.
When my editor read my ms for the first time, she had many questions about Eric and suggested I offer more information about him. He was too mysterious, in an incomplete and frustrating way. His motivations were not understood. What did he want? What did he need? I thought long and hard about how to show more of him. But the trouble with showing more about another character written in first person is the fear of info-dumping or labored conversations to include the pertinent past information.
To develop Eric’s character more and make his motivations central to the story, I gave him a voice of his own. And boy did he take off. I could barely keep up with everything he wanted to do and say. His depth of emotion ran deeper than I expected.
Without someone suggesting I offer more and allowing my work to rest, I wouldn’t have thought to push that way.
Having a CP, beta reader, and/or an editor read your work and offer feedback are critical steps for your story. Sometimes a suggestion or question is enough to turn your tale into something deeper and stronger. Especially if you’ve given it enough time.
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Elsie Elmore
Elsie Elmore lives in North Carolina with her husband and two kids.
She loves the color red, has an appreciation for chocolate and coffee that borders on obsession, writes stories that challenge the laws of nature, and wishes fall temperatures would linger year round.
Elsie is a member of several writing organizations: RWA, SCBWI, and WSW. The Undead : Playing for Keeps is her debut novel.
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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.
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