Thursday, October 31, 2013

Blitz Post!- Layers (Stark #1) by Sigal Ehrlich

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Title:  Layers (Stark #1)
Author:  Sigal Ehrlich
Publication Date: October 10th 2013
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  According to Hayley love is a subject of ridicule, a myth created by hopeless romantics.

When Hayley makes a resolution to declare her loose lifestyle era R.I.P, it’s all good in theory…

That is until she meets Daniel Stark, a well-respected, mid-thirties business man who is known for his short temper, lack of steady relationships as well as his strict preserve of his private life.

Opinionated, sharp tongued Hayley accidently steps into his office leaving Daniel resolved to put Hayley in her place and have her in his bed.

Both Hayley and Daniel can’t avoid the immediate instigation of the attraction between them.

In a unanimously agreed upon verdict by Hayley and her two best friends, Ian the gay self-absorb, aspiring model and Natasha the witty, borderline neurotic soul mate, Daniel Stark is to be Hayley’s pure physical attraction, emotions aside era closure.

Will it indeed be a closure, or a beginning to something neither Hayley nor Daniel ever bargained for…

EXCERPT:

There's a high-end coffee machine calling my name on the countertop across the room. A quick little coffee and I am out of here.
I press the green small-cup button and the machine awakens with the noise of evaporating steam. The oh-so-aromatic, roasted scent wafts toward me as the machine fills the cup with a rich chocolate-colored liquid. I'm thrilled, already anticipating the taste. When the machine signals that the cycle is complete, I grab the cup too hastily, and some of the coffee manages to spill on my white blouse.
Observing the damage with irritation, I murmur, “Fuck me,” under my breath.
Is that a request?”
Shifting my stare back to see who has just spoken; I find myself holding on to the counter from a momentary loss of balance, as I take in the sight of the orator.
Heat spreads from the center of my skull through my throat, to the top of my cleavage. And I don’t do blushing. What the hell?
Standing there is the very picture of hot, tall and sinful. White tee, jeans, and the most alluring bad boy stance. Something in his crooked smile inexplicably leaves me dumbfounded. For the space of a moment, I am lost in him.
His eyes roam over me with a wicked glee, stripping off every layer of clothing I have on. The air escapes my lungs at the intensity of that gaze.
I gape back at him, my jaw slightly dropped. “Mmm… just made some coffee.” I mumble my lame excuse and follow it with a thin smile.
So I assume it wasn’t a request, then?” His teasing eyes are on me, that sexy grin is still plastered on his face, and his expression insinuates pure sin.
Too bad,” he murmurs, and I have to swallow hard.
Is that your thing?” I ask, recovering.
He cocks an eyebrow. Sneaking behind people and trying to engage them in salacious activities?” A low laugh, deep and hoarse, comes as a reply.
No.” He scratches his amused lips with his thumb, looking at me with a slightly tilted head. “And just for the record, I believe it was you who started with the indecent proposals.”

I open my mouth, looking frantically for some clever comeback that doesn’t appear to come, and instead feel my face heat up. Again. Damn.


GIVEAWAY!:
Prizes (open internationally):
--50$ Amazon gift card

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AUTHOR BIO:
By teen age, Sigal already lived in three different continents where she had the luck to experience and visit varied places, meet unique people, which only helped fuel her overly developed imagination. Currently, Sigal calls Estonia home where she lives with her husband and three kids.

Not exactly sure where they will end up next…

When she is not hiding in her office, writing, she enjoys music, reading and taking care of her little clan.

With a great believe in "don’t wait for things to happen - make them happen," she enjoys anything exciting life has to offer.


Links:


Interview with Sigal Ehrlich!:  
Tell us a bit about Layers
Hayley makes a resolution to declare her loose lifestyle over, a resolution that doesn’t stand a chance when sparks of attraction fly as soon as she meets the Daniel Stark.
When she decides to give in to attraction for the very last time with the blessing of her two best friends, Ian the gay self-absorbed, aspiring model and Natasha the witty, borderline neurotic soul mate, they all agree she should not make it more than it is, not with him.
But life has its own course and what you plan is not always what you get.
Both Hayley and Daniel who don’t exactly believe in love or relationships for that matter, find themselves battling inner struggles, trying to stay true to their beliefs while irresistibly being pulled toward each other.   There you go, Layers in a nutshell…
What inspired you to write Layers?
To begin with, the characters of Daniel and Hayley have resided in my mind for a very long time, combine that with a love for surfing, tattoos and humor, and it was just likely that the mixture will end up as a book.
Do you have any traits in common with Hayley the protagonist?
There are a few similarities, we both lack a mind to mouth filter. Deep inside we both are what you may call a “good girl.” And both of us care dearly for our friends. But I guess there’s where it ends. Hayley is much more brazen and outspoken, and the entire “loose lifestyle” thing she had going on, definitely not my scene.

Name 5 things that people don’t know about you and about the book.
About me:
  1. I am a non-romantic... that writes romantic books.
  2. I’ve lived in five different countries and travelled to more than a few dozen.
  3. I am a words nerd, I skim through dictionaries for fun and try to learn a new word a day. Pathetic but true.
  4. I add cinnamon to almost everything I cook.
  5. I named my new baby Daniel as I fell in love with the name while writing Layers.

About Layers:
  1. I actually got a publishing contract but decided to decline it and self-publish, still hoping I will not have to drown this decision in many intakes of alcohol.
  2. Ian’s character is based on a real person.
  3. For the first half of the book both Hayley and Tasha had different looks.
  4. One of the most intense scenes was written on 4 sick bags as my Laptop’s battery died in the middle of a flight.
  5. Snow Patrol’s best songs were played in a loop throughout the writing of the book

Do you write full-time or part-time?
Unfortunately, with a five month old baby aka my new boss, I can’t write full-time. I’d love to though, and hope it will become possible for me in the future.
Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block? Take a break. Disconnect for a while, don’t think about it, do something that distracts you and then return to your work. Don’t fight it...
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
First and foremost with English being my second language and one of a few that I speak, from time to time, I need to make sure that for example a certain idiom I’m using is actually taken from English and not my translation from one of the other languages that I speak.
Another thing, I try to make my stories believable, stay true to real situations and people. As a writer you sometimes tend to take imagination to the next level. I find myself occasionally reassessing the validity of a situation, asking, if I were this character would I really act a certain way, speak in that way.
Do you read much and if so what are your favorite books?
Oh, I read, a lot! I think that if you check my kindle for the amount of books I’ve purchased so far, it will imply that I read about a book and a half a week.  I have many favorite books from a variety of genres. The first three that pop to my mind are:
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro, The ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ series by George R. R. Martin, The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski.
How do you relax?
Sparkling, a bottle or two … just kidding, no drinking problem here, yet… anyway.
Two things that set me at ease are aimlessly driving by myself with very loud music as company and cooking. If you find 2-3 freshly baked cakes on my kitchen counter, you can without any doubt assume I was a mess not long before.
What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?
Who says writers are sane?  Overall, I guess, it’s the ability to write, knowing when to come back to the real world, and mostly, having a very thick skin.
Any more books on the horizon?
Yes, actually there are two. First, there’s Inner Core, Layers’ sequel which will examine whether a relationship is strong enough to overcome too many mistakes, differences and… life. The lightness and fun will follow this book as well and there’s much to be expected in terms of character development.
The second project is Leaving Me Behind.  Leaving Me Behind is about a thirty-something successful business woman who leaves her stressful life to pursue serenity and break her too many strict rules in a coastal city in Spain.
When are these books coming?
Inner Core is planned to be released at the beginning of 2014. Leaving Me Behind is expected Mid- 2014.
Quickies:
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee and a lot!
Drama or humor?
Humor, and the crazier the better.
Day or night?
Night.
Sooner or Later?
Sooner, always.
Reading or writing?
Writing.
Favorite part of writing?
Dialogs.
Least favorite part of writing?
Editing. And the dreadful synopsis.
Something we don’t know about your writing?
I make myself laugh, geeky and pathetic as it may sound, I do.
What would you take to a deserted Island?
My kindle!
Best invention of the 21st century?
Coffee to go.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
Yep, first, thank you for having me here. Second, I want to thank everyone who read Layers, a big, fat thank you! 


Where to get your copy!:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Blog Tour Stop!- Seductive Secrecy (Shadows, #2) by Marni Mann

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Image and video hosting by TinyPicTitle:  Seductive Secrecy (Shadows #2)
Author:  Marni Mann
Publication Date: October 24th 2013 by Entice by Booktrope
Age Group: Mature Adult
Genre: Erotic Romance
Tour organized by: AToMR Tours
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  “We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.”

With her art career flourishing and the mansion predators no longer a threat, Charlie is creating a new life. Her desires have changed, and she has a chance at a healthy, loving relationship with Cameron—if they can bury the memories and doubts that plague them.

Can they overcome the destruction of their clouded pasts, or will the revelation of more painful, shocking secrets pull them back into the shadows?

MY REVIEW:


description 

The good: A brilliant and complex read! Ms. Mann creates a well conceived plot where it’s emotionally gripping and appealing; AND, and instigates an environment where the characters go through an immense amount of growth and transition! I was literally at the edge of my seat while reading this which is very rare for me!

The bad: I wouldn’t say this is bad, but at times, it was a bit overwhelming that I had to put down the book so be warned!

My thoughts: Marni Mann definitely puts on her A-game face in “Seductive Shadows”. It begins right after where its predecessor, “Seductive Shadows,” left off. After learning the harrowing secrets behind the mansion and instigating a take-down for those responsible, Charlie and Cameron are carefully trying to rebuild a life away from the chaos…or so they think…

Both battling their own personal demons, Charlie and Cameron face even more daunting struggles and trials in this follow up novel. Each character desperately seeks normalcy and stability but with all factors put against them it’s hard to see the light amidst all the darkness.

"We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.” 

I was deeply entranced and infatuated by how Ms. Mann made it prominent for the characters to learn how to embrace the darkness in order to appreciate the light. In other words, you cannot value the good unless you know and/or gone through the bad.

Charlie and Cameron learn this lesson in spades and it was intriguing to see them do so!

SO, my verdict: I highly recommend to all of my friends!! Marni Mann definitely creates a book of gold filled with angst, secrets, and a formidable love in the throes of obscurity and darkness.

Gosh, I am so very, very impressed!! An absolute must read!

 “Maybe I should gaze at the sky more often. Maybe I should enjoy the night air instead of sheltering myself from it from. Rather than letting the never--‐‑ending blackness overwhelm me, maybe I should appreciate it for what it is: a background for the brilliance of stars. After all, without darkness, there cannot be light.”


description


My Rating:

-Overall : 9
-Plot : 8.5
-Writing : 8.5
-Characters : 8.5
-Cover : 8.5

Where to get your copy!:
Amazon




Image and video hosting by TinyPicTitle:  Seductive Shadows (Shadows, #1)
Author:  Marni Mann
Publication Date: July 17th 2013 by Booktrope
Age Group: Mature Adult
Genre: Erotic Romance
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  Charlie is a passionate, sensually-inspired art student, desperately seeking an escape from the abusive past that haunts her and a tragic accident that emptied her heart. Scarred and unable to love, her yearning for physical pleasure leads her into a tantalizing, dangerous world of power and seduction. The anonymity of the deal offers security; the money brings financial freedom and the madam is the mother figure she longs for.

But the thrill of the mansion and its arousing dominance quickly fades when she meets renowned-yet-mysterious Cameron Hardy, whose intense baby blue eyes send a nervous flutter through her core. Cameron is sexy, and not in a subtle way. He stimulates Charlie’s art, her intellect and her desires. Just as he begins to break through her emotional boundaries, she discovers a devastating connection between her past and her scandalous work at the mansion, shattering everything she thought to be true.

Provocative, intoxicating and erotic, Seductive Shadows is the unforgettable tale of a young woman’s self-discovery as she learns to forgive, to love and be loved, and to find redemption amidst a remarkable journey that will captivate your mind and stimulate your soul.

This book is for mature audiences. It contains explicit language and sexual content.

Where to get your copy!:
Amazon


About the Author:
A New Englander at heart, Marni Mann is now a Floridian inspired by the sandy beaches and hot pink sunsets of Sarasota. She taps mainstream appeal and shakes worldwide taboos, taking her readers on a dark and breathtaking journey. When she's not nose deep in her laptop, she's scouring for chocolate, traveling, reading, or walking her four-legged children. Visit her at www.marnismann.com.

Author Social Media Links:




Giveaway!:
(7) eBook copies of Seductive Secrecy – International

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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To see other stops on the tour for reviews, guest posts, and excerpts click here or the tour button below.

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PROMOTIONAL POST!- Waterproof by Amber Garr

Waterproof Cover



Dying of thirst is the new reality. 

Five years after the last drop of clean water disappeared, global societies collapsed and nuclear war shattered all hope of recovery. In a place now only a skeleton of its former self, survivors fight to avoid capture by the government. Forced to work in factories that produce the only drinking water available, those who go in, never come out. 

 Zach and Vivienne have lived as deserters since they were teenagers. Fighting amongst their own and scrounging for the necessities of life, they’ve learned to rely on each other in every way. Yet when tragedy strikes and the true objectives of the government facility are revealed, their world is ripped apart. A fate once thought to hold their demise may be the sole answer to their survival. Who can they trust? Who can they believe? 

 In this life, it pays to be waterproof. 

 Disclaimer: Waterproof is a new adult dystopian with sex, violence, and language that may not be suitable for a younger audience.

Teaser

Vivienne yelled out and I whipped my head around to see what happened. The last man standing held an impressive hunting knife in his hand, while Vivienne had a fresh cut on her arm. Still, she held steady, sword gripped tightly in front of her, legs in a fighting stance. 
Something stirred inside of me at the sight. Time slowed when I watched her wield the sword like an ancient warrior. It was hard to imagine that just a few years ago we were in high school worrying about football games and which party to go to on the weekend. Now we stayed in abandoned houses, scrounged for water, and spent most of our lives running. If things had been different, Vivienne and I would be graduating college this year. I had plans to go into medicine, and she wanted to be a vet. Funny how those dreams seemed so far away now. 
A loud thump echoed through the now darkened night. She almost fell to the ground with the amount of momentum needed to decapitate the man. He dropped to his knees like a sinner begging for mercy, head rolling further down the hill. My stomach fluttered with admiration and annoyance. 
“I didn’t need your help,” I said to her, getting up on my feet and trying not to wince at my injuries. 
“Sure,” she huffed. Ripping her bandana off her face she tore it in two. “Here, wrap that up.” She nodded toward the tear in my sleeve and I stubbornly yanked the cloth out of her hand. 
“I had everything under control,” I said between clenched teeth. It was the only way to mask the pain. “How did you know where to find me?” 
“I followed the girly shrieks,” she said without missing a beat. I looked down at her in time to see a smirk pull at the corner of her mouth. “Let me do it.” 
Once again, I allowed Vivienne to rescue me. It killed every part of that male ego inside, but I knew she’d let me do the same for her. In fact, I had. We always saved each other. 
“Ow,” I said when she tightened the bandana a little too rough around my arm. 
“Stop being a baby.” 
“Stop showing off your man strength.” 
She pulled even tighter but let a small laugh escape. I sucked in a breath at that sound, realizing how close I’d come to never hearing it again. 
“Are you hurt anywhere else?” she asked, turning me around and patting her hands along my body. I froze, trying to ignore how comforting her touch felt. We’d been friends for years, and she was the only person in this world I trusted. Why had I risked so much for this run? 
I stepped away from her, not liking where my thoughts were headed. “I’m fine,” I mumbled. “Stop mothering me." 
“I wouldn’t have to if you’d listen to me.” She stopped in front of my face and stared me down. I stood a little over six feet tall and she was just a few inches shorter. Together with that glare, almost any man would cower under her. “Was it worth it?” 
“Huh?” 
“The water. How much did you get?" 
I hung my head in embarrassment. “I had eight, but they shot through one. So six, I guess.” 
“Six bottles?” She looked impressed. 
“No, six liters.” Silence. 
“You just made me kill three men for six liters of water?” 
I shuffled my feet. “You only killed two.” 
She reached out so quickly, I couldn’t defend myself. Both hands pushed against my chest and I stumbled back, falling to the ground. 
“I could make it three,” she hissed. “I should kill you for your stupidity alone.”
About Amber Garr

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Amber Garr spends her days as a scientist and nights writing about other worlds. Born in Pennsylvania, she lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry kids. Her childhood imaginary friend was a witch, Halloween is sacred, and she is certain that she has a supernatural sense of smell. Amber is a multiple Royal Palm Literary Award winner, author of Waterproof, The Syrenka Series, The Leila Marx Novels, and the upcoming Death Warden Series. When not obsessing over the unknown, she can be found dancing, reading, or enjoying a good movie.




Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Cover Reveal!- Jaded Stone (Souls of the Stones) by Kelly Walker

JS CROP

jadedstoneEbookTitle: Jaded Stone (Souls of the Stones)
Author: Kelly Walker
Publication Date: November 2013
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  In Cornerstone, Valencia Roth died to protect her daughter. In Jaded Stone, she'll live for her.

Twenty years before the events of Cornerstone, Valencia Roth is the Crown Princess of Sheas, as lonely as she is privileged. She wants for nothing, except a clear path toward peace for her land. She’s always known personal happiness might not be in The Three’s plan for her. As the future ruler of Sheas, and a Cornerstone, her life belongs to her people.

But when Valencia meets the charming Reid Hendel, she dares to believe love could be within her reach. That is, if they can both survive long enough for it to blossom. A new threat prowls the land, and she’s their primary target. Armed with stubborn pride and all the resources of Sheas, she fears nothing—until her brother leads her intended directly into the fray and at least one of them doesn’t return.

Burdened with grief, Valencia must carve her own path forward. From the forge of chaos, a new era will be born.







  Check out the new covers for the rest of the Souls of the Stones series

CornerStoneSecondStoneBrokenStone  

Giveaway!:

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

About Kelly Walker:

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Kelly Walker is a YA and NA author of several romantic titles, including the Souls of the Stones series. She has an unhealthy appreciation for chocolate, and a soft spot for rescued animals. Her best lessons on writing came from a lifetime of reading. She loves the fantastical, and the magical, and believes a captivating romance can be the most realistic magic of all. Kelly, her husband and her two children share their Virginia home with three dogs who walk her, and two cats who permit her to occasionally share their couch.

Cover Reveal!- Fragile Brilliance (Shifters & Seers, #1) by Tammy Blackwell

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Title:  Fragile Brilliance (Shifters & Seers, #1)
Author:  Tammy Blackwell
Publication Date: December 2013
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  Maggie McCray has worked her whole life for the opportunity to attend Sanders College. It’s her one chance at becoming a world-renowned artist, and she’s determined nothing will get in her way. But when a murder brings Maggie and her powers to the attention of the Alpha Pack and the tragically handsome Charlie Hagan, her carefully planned future hangs in jeopardy.
Charlie Hagan isn’t happy when the Alpha Female assigns him as Maggie McCray’s personal bodyguard. Just being near the Thaumaturgic threatens to unleash the primal instincts he’s been suppressing for so long. Charlie knows if the coyote is uncaged, then the person he’ll most need to protect Maggie from is himself.
Fragile Brilliance is the first book in the Shifters & Seers series by Tammy Blackwell, bestselling author of the Timber Wolves trilogy. It releases on Tuesday November 26, 2013. 

Fragile Brilliance Cover lr

About Tammy Blackwell
Tammy Blackwell
Tammy Blackwell is a Young Adult Services Coordinator for a public library system in Kentucky. When she's not reading, writing, cataloging, or talking about books, she's sleeping.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Blog Tour Stop!- Fighting Fate (Granton University #1) by Linda Kage

Title: Fighting Fate (Granton University, #1)
Author: Linda Kage
Goodreads URL: HERE
Publisher: Omnific Publishing
Publication Date: July 18, 2013
Age Group: New Adult (more for age than content)
Genre: Contemporary
Tour organized by: AToMR Tours
Plot:  *New Adult Romance*

Forgiving your brother's murderer may be noble, but falling in love with him borders on betrayal.

When Paige Zukowski enrolls at Granton University in honor of her dead brother, she has no idea fate will land her on the same campus with the very guy who killed him. But Logan Xander isn't quite the murderer she's always believed him to be.

A day hasn't passed since the tragedy that Logan doesn't wish he could go back and undo everything. It doesn't take Paige long to realize he's suffered as much as she has. Forgiving him for ruining her life might not be so impossible after all. But when she actually starts to like him and realizes he likes her in return, their true anguish begins.



MY REVIEW:

The good: Solid read! Story was different and enjoyable and the characters were fairly likable.

The bad: Hmmm????

My thoughts: “What would you do if you met the person responsible for your brother’s death?” Well, this rings true for Paige…

I have to say that “Fighting Fate” took me by surprise. I was extremely weary and skeptical as to how Ms. Kage was going to portray this tale and I have to say that I was quite satisfied with her execution!

I loved how mature and real Paige and Logan were. They were so genuine and honest that each trial they faced either made my heart soar or break.

If I were in Paige or Logan’s shoes, I would feel and react the same way to things as them.

However, their camaraderie to healing, forgiveness, and as well as self-discovery was very beautiful.

Very well done, Linda! You've made a fan out of me!


About the Author

Linda is a contemporary romance author from the midwestern USA, where she lives with her wonderful husband, daughter, and nine cuckoo clocks. The eighth and final child of dairy farmers, she was forced into having a vivid imagination if she ever wanted to do something one of her siblings hadn't already tried. Feel free to visit her at her website: www.LindaKage.com

Twitter, Facebook, Amazon, Goodreads, Website


GIVEAWAY!:
(5) eBooks of Fighting Fate – International
(5) Print copies of Fighting Fate - International 
(1) $25 Omnific Publishing Gift Card - International

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour schedule link: http://atomrbookblogtours.com/2013/09/05/tour-fighting-fate-by-linda-kage-and-omnific-publishing/

To see other stops on the tour for reviews, guest posts, and excerpts click here or the tour banner below.



My Rating:

-Overall : 9
-Plot : 8.5
-Writing : 8.5
-Characters : 8.5
-Cover : 8

Where to get your copy!:

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Book Blitz!- Kiss the Tiger by Raquel Lyon



Title:  Kiss the Tiger
Author:  Raquel Lyon
Publication Date: September 1st 2013
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  Amy’s love life sucks. At college, she thought she’d found the man of her dreams, but then she hadn’t planned on his brother’s sadistic intervention, and after that night, Amy’s life was never the same.
Deciding the only way to forget is to move on, she searches for comfort in the arms of other men, but the satisfaction she craves remains elusive. No amount of one night stands can replace her lost love.
On a long awaited summer holiday, her sister hopes to change Amy’s luck, planning to find them both plenty of sexy fun on the hot summer nights. Sadly, an unforeseen turn of events threatens to drive a wedge into their sisterly love.

Kiss the Tiger is a 43,000 word New Adult novel containing sexual situations not suitable for under 16’s.

Excerpt:

The midday sun had heated the air to an unbearable level, and I understood why the word siesta existed in certain hot countries. In fact, it had turned into one of those days where the only thing you want to do is open the refrigerator door and stand in front of it. I couldn’t take it anymore, so I grabbed a quick bite to eat in the cool of the air-conditioned snack bar and returned to my room, intending to stick a film in the DVD player and chill out until the rays lengthened. The opening credits were rolling when there was a knock on the door. It couldn’t be the maid. When I’d returned, the bed was made and my top had gone to the big dumpster in the sky.
I pressed pause. “Who is it?”
“Manager.”
What? Why? Had someone reported my drunken antics? Had Nessie not cleaned up my mess properly and the maid had complained? Mum would love the excuse that we were forced to go home because I got us thrown out of the hotel.
“Just a minute.” I quickly tied a sarong around my bikini bottoms and opened the door, mentally preparing an apology, and totally unprepared for the sight that met me.
Casually leaning with an elbow against the door jamb and one ankle crossed over the other was a familiar figure. His dark head lifted with a crooked smile.
Our eyes locked, and for one brief moment I was too shocked to speak. A warm tingling radiated out from my chest, down my arms and legs, and my body weakened. What was he doing here?
I managed to find my voice. “Manager, huh?”
“Figured you might not open up if you knew it was me.”
I’ll open anything you ask me to.
Josh’s eyes flicked past my shoulders. “Are you alone?”
I nodded. “Yes.”
“Can I come in?”
I stepped back on shaky legs, and he squeezed through the gap, brushing my arm with his as he passed. His electric touch gave my nerves another jolt.
He walked over to the balcony access and slid it shut. “Are you going to close the door?”
Hadn’t he just done that? I faltered for a second before realising what I was holding. “Oh. Yeah. Right.” I let go of the handle. The door latch caught, and I leaned back against the fire notice. I needed to sit down before my legs gave way, but the only place to sit was the bed, and as much as I wanted to, I couldn’t go there. He might get the wrong idea. So I went to the dressing table and perched on the edge, hoping it was strong enough to support me. An uncomfortable silence ensued.
Josh stared leisurely through the glass at the view, and I stared at him. The white cotton of his T-shirt was fitted enough to show the contours of his muscular back, and his hands in the pockets of his beige, linen shorts stretched the material tight across his buttocks. My mouth went dry with an overwhelming need to touch him. I couldn’t believe he was here, in my bedroom. If I’d fallen asleep again, and was dreaming it all, I didn’t want to wake up.
Finally he spoke. “You stood me up.”
“I wouldn’t say that.”
“Okay, walked out on me.”
“Yeah.”
“Girls don’t do that.”
I bet they don’t. “Did I dent your pride?”
He swung around, and with two slow, purposeful strides, he was standing in front of me, his nose six inches from my face. “No.” He angled his head. “I understand why you left. It was a shock for me too.”
I struggled to keep my breath even. “It was?”
“You were the last girl I expected to see.”
“Sorry to disappoint.” Why was I smart mouthing him when he’d done nothing to deserve it?
His lips curved into a smile. I’d never noticed his dimples before, but then I’d never been lucky enough to see them this close. “I wasn’t disappointed,” he said.
“Really? You’re not pissed you didn’t get the quick leg-over you were expecting?” Shut up, Amy, before your mouth ruins everything.
His eyes fell to my cleavage. “That’s Jacko, not me.”
The way he was undressing me with his eyes said otherwise.







An Interview with Joshua Jackson Star of ‘Kiss the Tiger’ by Raquel Lyon


Welcome Joshua. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
Not much to say, really. *rubs chin* I come from an average working class family: Mum, dad, brother, conventional set-up. Mum’s an admin assistant; Dad’s an accountant. It’s pretty mundane stuff. If you’re looking for drama you won’t find it.

But things with your brother were pretty dramatic, no?
We fought. What brothers don’t?

I believe there was a little more to it than that. Tell us about the events that led you to be in Greece.
My brother’s always been a taker, but when he stole something from me, something very dear to me. It caused a big upset in our family. I was in Greece at the request of my parents. They demanded my brother and me reconcile.

And did you?
Haven’t you read the story? All I’ll say is that, although the conflicts I’ve had with Jacko have made me a stronger person, I’m through trying to make it work.

So Greece wasn’t a holiday for you.
Hell, no. I had to work every damn day. Of course, things looked up after Amy arrived.

You first met Amy at college, correct?
Yep.

What was your initial impression of her?
She had a great rack!

And seriously?
What makes you think I wasn’t being serious? *shrugs* Okay, she intrigued me.

Why did you give up on her so easily, back then?
After what happened, I thought I’d be a constant reminder. I couldn’t put her through any more pain.

Have you ever discussed what happened?
Not in detail. And we never will. Amy dealt with it in her own way, and we’ve moved on. Can we change the subject, please?

Okay. What do you love most about her?
That’s easy. I love the way she stares at me when she thinks I’m not looking. She acts all cool and aloof when, secretly, I know she can’t wait to get into my pants.

I can see why *blushes* How did you feel when you first saw Amy again?
The old feelings came rushing back. I knew I couldn’t let her go again, but I was nervous about how we would overcome the barrier of my brother.

That’s understandable. So, what would you say is the overall theme of your story?
*Silently contemplates the question* Sometimes life throws you a curveball, but never give up hope.

Tell us about your tattoo.
Oh yeah, you like it? I’ve had it since college. My mate and I got bored, one time, and decided to get inked up. I chose something that represented personal power and the ability to overcome obstacles. *chuckles* My mate put his ex’s name in a heart. He’s still regretting that one.

Yes, I bet. So, tell me. What makes you happy?
Being with my girl.

Naturally. Now, if you don’t mind, I’d like to do a quick fire five.
Okay.

Where would your dream vacation be?
A secluded beach with only Amy for company.

What do you wear in bed?
Nothing, babycakes. *winks*

Who was your first love?
My motorbike.

Three words that best describe you.
Persistent, loyal, *cocks eyebrow* sexy.

Who would play you in a movie?
Hmm… A young Rob Lowe would be good, or, I know, Colton Haynes. Yeah, he’s a cool guy.

What’s next for Josh and Amy? A beach wedding in Greece?
*laughs* Good one. No. Amy wants to return to Greece for a holiday, but I’ll be taking her to a different island, far away from my brother. At the moment, we’re both busy with our careers and enjoying life. As for marriage, let’s just say you’ll have to watch this space.

Well, thank you for the interview, Josh. I had fun.

No problem, sweetcheeks.



Where to get your copy!

Book Review...Layers (Stark #1) by Sigal Ehrlich

Title:  Layers (Stark #1)
Author:  Sigal Ehrlich
Publication Date: October 10th 2013
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  According to Hayley love is a subject of ridicule, a myth created by hopeless romantics.

When Hayley makes a resolution to declare her loose lifestyle era R.I.P, it’s all good in theory…

That is until she meets Daniel Stark, a well-respected, mid-thirties business man who is known for his short temper, lack of steady relationships as well as his strict preserve of his private life.

Opinionated, sharp tongued Hayley accidently steps into his office leaving Daniel resolved to put Hayley in her place and have her in his bed.

Both Hayley and Daniel can’t avoid the immediate instigation of the attraction between them.

In a unanimously agreed upon verdict by Hayley and her two best friends, Ian the gay self-absorb, aspiring model and Natasha the witty, borderline neurotic soul mate, Daniel Stark is to be Hayley’s pure physical attraction, emotions aside era closure.

Will it indeed be a closure, or a beginning to something neither Hayley nor Daniel ever bargained for…

MY REVIEW:

“Don’t get me wrong, Daniel, in my heart I feel like I would do anything you want but when reason sets in and I take control of my Danielized brain, I know this isn’t right.” - “You’ve been Danielized?” he asks, highly amused.

The good: Original, witty, fast paced, and likable characters!! In fact, I LOVE Ian!! Can I have him as one of my besties?!!

  “Of the slutty princess who did not believe in love, who used to take advantage of innocent men, who finally got enchanted by a handsome, slightly deranged prince.” “And how does this fairy tale end?” “They’re both committed to an asylum in a faraway kingdom,” Ian continues. “Doing it like bunnies till the end of days.” -Haha!

The bad: This is not a bad thing but we aware that there is a cliffhanger!! I swear, I was sitting at the edge of my e-reader (if that’s even possible!) gnawing at my nails after I had finished! I want the sequel now!! *pouts*

My thoughts: It’s not often that I find a plot that is different. Usually, it’s a good girl meets bad boy; they do the push and pull factor and either act like love sick puppies or my favorite, “I don’t deserve you” tirade; and then they tame his or her demons and live happily ever after.

Well, “Layers” isn’t that type of read because it centers on real life and characters in real life predicaments! I liked how both Hayley and Daniel are not perfect and each have their own flaws and uncertainties. They mesh well together and so do the supporting characters!

GOSH! At times, I wished that I could ingrain myself in Hayley’s friend circle and have a man like Daniel (even though at times I wanted to strangle him! Lol!) BUT... fate was not kind to me in that way! Haha. I’m now super eager as to the follow up sequel to “Layers” and wonder what Ms. Ehrlich has in store for us next!

*Much love to Sigal Ehrlich for contacting me to receive her book in exchange for an honest review!*



My Rating:

-Overall : 8.5
-Plot : 8.5
-Writing : 8.5
-Characters : 8.5
-Cover : 8.5



Where to get your copy!

Friday, October 25, 2013

BOOK REVIEW..Sempre by J.M. Darhower

Title:  Sempre (Forever Series #1)
Author:  J.M. Darhower
Publication Date: November 25th 2013 by Gallery Books
Goodreads URL: HERE
Plot:  A sexy novel about two seventeen-year-olds—one a victim of human trafficking; the other the son of the man who enslaved her—who fall in love and question everything they ever believed…
Haven Antonelli and Carmine DeMarco grew up under vastly different circumstances. Haven, a second-generation slave, was isolated in the middle of the desert, her days full of hard work and terrifying abuse. Carmine, born into a wealthy Mafia family, lived a life of privilege and excess.

Now, a twist of fate causes their worlds to collide. Entangled in a web of secrets and lies, they learn that while different on the surface, they have more in common than anyone would think.

In a world full of chaos, where money and power rule, Haven and Carmine yearn to break free, but a string of events that began before either of them were born threatens to destroy them instead. Murder and betrayal are a way of life, and nothing comes without a price—especially not freedom. But how much will they have to sacrifice? Can they escape their pasts? And, most of all, what does it mean to be free?

MY REVIEW:
description
- “Nella vita: chi non risica, non rosica," he said finally, his voice quiet. "In life: nothing ventured, nothing gained. My mom used to tell us that. It's been a long time, but I can still hear her saying it.” 


The good:  Very well written and well-crafted.Interesting and plot and story line.  Characters are engaging and dynamic.  All around solid read.

The bad:  No constructive criticism whatsoever.  My only complaint is that I want MORE!!


I was asked the other day by my best friend if I had to choose one book as my most favorite book to read and what would it be.  It was a tough call since I'm obsessed with Jamie McGuire's "Beautiful Disaster" but "Sempre by JM Darhower" is actually my ALL TIME FAVORITE READ.

I can't even put into words how much I LOVE❤ this story.  There is simply nothing bad to say about it.

The characters of Carmine and Haven are so different yet SO ALIKE.  You would think that a second-generation slave would most likely be the student compared to someone who is has the world at the tips of his fingers...HOW WRONG YOU ARE...

Carmine is priviledged, yes, compared to Haven but he learns so much from her and her from him.

Carmine and Haven's love is so unbelievably raw and beautiful that you'd have to be a robot not to see or feel it.  I would go more into detail about the characters and their love story but it's more of a "you have to read it yourself rather than me telling you why it's so good."


SO, MY VERDICT:

I highly recommend!! In the past I had put off this book for months and months and when I finally decided to read it I wanted to kick myself for not reading it sooner!!

TRUST ME, this book is that addictive!

- “Colpo di fulmine. The thunderbolt, as Italians call it. When love strikes someone like lightning, so powerful and intense it can’t be denied. It’s beautiful and messy, cracking a chest open and spilling their soul out for the world to see. It turns a person inside out, and there’s no going back from it. Once the thunderbolt hits, your life is irrevocably changed.” 




My Rating:

-Overall : 10
-Plot : 10
-Writing : 10
-Characters : 10
-Cover : 8.5



Where to get your copy!
Amazon (Pre-order)



**ALSO, be on the lookout for the follow up to SEMPRE, called SEMPRE:REDEMPTION, releasing on December 23rd, 2013!  I'm currently reading the digital RC right now and I have to say that it is simply AMAZING!  Pre-order your copy now as well!
Amazon

I know I did!!


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