Spartan Queen Kristine Oktober monthly giveaway!



Kristine Cheney is an award-winning, best-selling author of paranormal and contemporary romance and an Arizona native, now living in Surprise. She's been married twenty-two years to her high school sweetheart, Brett, and is the mother of Taryn, Brett Tyler, and Zackary, and is Grammy to Parker, Ivy, and Evely'nn. A huge labrador lover, she's pack-mom to Yellow Lab, Magnus, and to the very naughty (and quite huge) white Labra-Doodle puppy, Brody.

Hobbies include writing passionate love stories that involve chivalrous characters, dashing adventure, forked humor, and the ever-true good vs. evil dilemma. Her favorite place to relax is anywhere within close proximity to a beach or wooded lake. A huge history buff, she plans to one day make a trek across the US to get her fill of American wonder (with hubby, labs, and lap top in tow).

Kristine loves a good, hot cup of coffee with Creme Brulee liquid creamer. She became a maestro with a bag of frosting when Wilton cake decorating lessons fueled her artistic fire. Needless to say, she's pretty darn awesome at creating a deluxe wedding, baby shower, and themed birthday cake that will make your toes curl.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pokes#!/AuthorKristineCheney

Website: http://www.kristinecheney.com/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Kristine-Cheney/e/B004P39BK8/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1346364490&sr=1-2-ent

http://www.amazon.com/Secret-Santa-ebook/dp/B005XDC0K2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1346365240&sr=1-1&keywords=kristine+cheney

http://www.amazon.com/Spartan-Heart-Part-One-ebook/dp/B004OYTDIS/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1346365240&sr=1-3&keywords=kristine+cheney

http://www.amazon.com/Spartan-Heart-Part-Two-ebook/dp/B004W82N2Y/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1346365240&sr=1-4&keywords=kristine+cheney

http://www.amazon.com/Spartan-Surrender-Heart-Saga-ebook/dp/B007U0ZRL0/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1346365240&sr=1-5&keywords=kristine+cheney

Thanks so much to Author Kristine Cheney for her contribution to the blog and allowing me to help her spread the word about her Fabulous books!

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Tam's Two Cents Fangtastic Halloween Event! Oktober 1st - 31st

 

Eight Fangtastic Author's - 31 days of Giveaways

Spotlights, Guest Posts and other fun stuff going on all month here at Tam's Book Blog

Here is a sneak peak at the Author's that are participating in this event!

 

Oktober 2nd - Tim O'Rourke

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Tim-ORourke/e/B004RQ06AW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348928464&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/wwwRavenwoodgreyscom/109170242508?fref=ts

 

Oktober 5th - Lacey Jackson Weatherford

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Lacey-Weatherford/e/B0033DCQBC/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348928677&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Of-Witches-and-Warlocks-Paranormal-Book-Series/168697193301?fref=ts

 

Oktober 8th - Scott Prusing

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Scott-Prussing/e/B004YTTFX6/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348928837&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/BreathlessFampires?fref=ts

 

Oktober 12th - Jennifer Malone Wright

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Malone-Wright/e/B00508KU4I/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348929273&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thevampirehuntersdaughter/photos_stream

 

Oktober 19th - Sallie Lundy-Frommer

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Sallie-Lundy-Frommer/e/B005UKGJQ4/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348929447&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/YesterdaysDaughter/photos_stream

 

Oktober 22nd - Natalie Gibson

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Natalie-Gibson/e/B007UT880I/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348929574&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/author.gibson

 

Oktober 26th - Dawn Gray

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Gray/e/B008OY9XAC/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348929686&sr=1-2-ent

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/TheVampireLegacy?fref=ts

 

Oktober 29th - David McAfee

 

 

 

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/David-L-McAfee/e/B003DCAA84/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1348929973&sr=1-1

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/david.mcafee.5876?fref=ts

 

 

A warm round of applause for these Fangtastic Authors! 

Happy Halloween Everyone!!



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Interview, Review & Giveaway. On Dublin Street by Samantha Young

* * Warning, this book is NC17 * * 



Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Four years ago, Jocelyn Butler left her tragic past behind in the States and started over in Edinburgh. Burying the grief, ignoring her demons, and forging ahead without any real attachments has worked well for her so far but when Joss moves into a fantastic apartment on Dublin Street, her carefully guarded world is shaken to its core by her new roommate’s sexy older brother.

Braden Carmichael is a man who always gets what he wants. And what he wants is Jocelyn in his bed. Knowing how skittish Joss is concerning any kind of relationship, Braden proposes a sexual arrangement that should satisfy the intense attraction between them without it developing into anything ‘more’. An intrigued Jocelyn agrees, completely unprepared for the Scotsman and his single-minded determination to strip the stubborn young woman bare…to the very soul. *amazon.com*

Wow! Loved this book!! In the literary world that is overrun with adult contemporary romance books, it’s very refreshing when an author can create something new and unexplored.  That is exactly what Young has done with On Dublin Street.  From the first chapter I was hooked, and over 400 pages later I was just as pleased with the ending as I was throughout this book.

Young has created a very believable character in Jocelyn Butler (Joss) that is beautifully emotionally scarred.  Guarded and untrusting, Joss lives in her own world allowing no-one in, that is until she meets the Oh so sexy Braden Carmichael.  Braden as well has his own demons he keeps locked away, but the professionally successful eternal bachelor has just met his match!  The fact that he’s Scottish and HOT has absolutely nothing to do with it *winks*! Seriously though, Joss pushes Braden back just as hard as he tries to pull her in.  The chemistry between these two is undeniable and off the charts from their first meeting, in the back of a cab. It was such a delight sharing their journey as they discovered each other, and surprisingly finding themselves individually along the way.

As I said, I loved that the guy was chasing the girl in the book but what Young has done is make him just that much more desirable due to said chasing.  Making this book all the more enticing is Young’s ability to create these two less than perfect characters and still translate a strong leading lady and an alpha male.  Joss is head strong, flawed and emotionally unavailable.  Braden is brooding, sexy and used to getting what he wants; and what he wants is Joss!  When these two forces collide what we have is a Fantastic love story unfolding with some oh so sexy, steamy bedroom gymnastics!!

I give this one 5/5 but, that’s just my two cents!!

And now on to the good stuff, my interview with Samantha Young (giveaway details to follow).

 



Tell me a bit about yourself.

Well… I’m short, I’m Scottish, I’m twenty six years old (how did that happen?), and after I graduated from the university of Edinburgh where I studied ancient and medieval history, I decided since the real world didn’t have a use for that kind of degree (oops), that I’d put it into my love of writing. From there The Tale of Lunarmorte was born, and it stoked the fire of a twenty year old addiction. I quickly found an outlet for my addiction - self-publishing. Yay! And now I’m a full-time writer and the author of young adult urban fantasy and adult contemporary fiction.

*Where were you born and where do you call home?

I was born in Central Scotland and it’s ‘ma hame’ as we say here.

*What was your inspiration for Joss ?

The inspiration for Joss came from moments in my own life as well as moments in my friends and family’s lives. Her history is an amalgamation of some of the hard stuff we’ve all had to deal with, and her personality… well… some of that’s me but most of that’s just Joss ;)

*For those who are unfamiliar with your novel; On Dublin Street, how would you introduce it?

On Dublin Street is an adult contemporary romance with an irreverent, stubborn, but strong heroine and an annoyingly perceptive and sexily persistent alpha-male hero. It’s a story of passion, loss, heartbreak, laughter and overcoming fears. Mostly it’s a story about love.

*What are the Pro’s and Con’s to being an Indie Author?

Pros: Autonomy. Creating your own deadlines, which means publishing at a faster pace than most traditionally published authors can. Choosing your own editor. Choosing your own cover artist. Basically, having creative control over the entire process.

Cons: Promoting and Marketing. To be successful as an indie you have to constantly promote and market your work and that can take a lot of time away from the actual writing.

*Whom in your life would you say has influenced you the most?

My Parents. They raised me right! :p

*What has been the most interesting comment (or review) about your book?

A reviewer wrote in her review of On Dublin Street that she didn’t think she’d ever been as captivated by a book in the thirty years she’d been reading and that she had a visceral reaction to. Her entire review blew me away and it has stayed with me and probably always will.

*Who is YOUR favorite Author?

I have too many favourites! To name but a few: Laini Taylor, Suzanne Collins, J.K. Rowling, Richelle Mead, Angela Carter, Margaret Atwood, Taherah Mafi, Veronica Rossi, Veronica Roth, Chloe Neill, Stacia Kane, Orson Scott Card, Cormac McCarthy, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Cassandra Clare, Darynda Jones, Julie Kagawa, Susan Ee, Stephanie Perkins, Brodi Ashton, Maria V. Snyder, Kristin Cashore, Holly Black, Karen Marie Moning, Melissa De La Cruz, Melissa Marr, Lauren DeStefano, Rachel Vincent, Rachel Caine…

*What are you reading right now?

My work keeps pulling me away from the kindle but I have lined up to read next: Biting Cold (Chicagoland Vampires #6) by Chloe Neill and My Soul to Take (Soul Screamers #1) by Rachel Vincent.

*In addition to On Dublin Street, you wrote The Fire Spirits Novels, can you give us a brief synopsis on this series?

Fire Spirits centers around the story of Ari Johnson, an eighteen year old girl from Ohio who discovers that Jinn (Genies) really do exist and that’s she part of a civil war that’s brewing amongst their royalty. Caught in the political and monarchical drama, Ari has to fight Jinn at every turn with the help of a ruggedly sexy older bodyguard, Jai, and her best friend Charlie.

 Thanks Samantha for sharing your thoughts with us, here are her links for all you stalkers out there! Up for grabs is a signed copy of On Dubling Street, and this one is International guys!!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Samantha-Young-YA-Fantasy-Author/173012182748570?sk=info

Website: http://www.ondublinstreet.com/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Samantha-Young/e/B004W7FT94/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1348708092&sr=1-2-ent

 

 

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Q&A, Review and Giveaway. Entice by Jessica Shirvington (book 2 of the Violet Eden Chapters)

 

Every day Violet Eden wonders whether she made the right choice.

She still doesn't fully understand these powers she's been granted as a half-angel Grigori. And worse, isn't even sure she's capable of using them. Stab someone through the heart? Really?

No matter how bad things get, though, Violet doesn't run and she doesn't quit. Even if it means she can never allow herself to love the guy she longs for. Even if it means asking her enemy for help. Even if no one is telling her the truth.

The war between Exiles and Angels is on—and she's wanted by both sides. *amazon.com*

In this highly anticipated sequel to Entice, Violet jumps head first into her Grigori training as she attempts to juggle her Angel abilities with her desperate need to be a normal teenager. Still struggling with her relationship with Linc (her friend, trainer and Grigori partner) her inner turmoil is only compounded by the reappearance of Phoenix. Oh and let’s not forget the thorn in her side, quite literally, Onyx.

This series took me completely by surprise and quickly became one of my favorite Angel genre series. Shirvington’s take on Angels, what with the Light and Dark and those two terms not always as straight forward as they seem, will have you tearing through these books eager to learn more about this world she so vividly describes. Another thing that is somewhat unique to Shirvington’s series is Violets BFF Steph; it is rare to have a series where the main heroine and her friend are both no nonsense, kick ass, smart, strong characters. And, even though this is a YA series there isn’t a ridonkulous amount of teenage angst, another plus!

Shirvington introduces us to some new Grigori members in this book, my favorite of which is Spence. Struggling to reign in his own abilities and bitter because his partner hasn’t presented his/herself yet, he brings an odd balance to the mix with his self assured attitude, dry whit and fierce fighting skills.

As usual the Author’s attention to detail and ability to weave a believable reality that coincides with the one we live everday, lurking around the corners and in the shadows, makes this book all the more enthralling!

I give this one 5/5 and I anxiously await book 3!

 

 



 

http://www.jessicashirvington.com/

 

Jessica Shirvington is the author of THE VIOLET EDEN CHAPTERS also known as THE EMBRACE SERIES. An entrepreneur, author, and mother living in Sydney, Australia, Jessica is also a 2011 finalist for Cosmopolitan’s annual Fun, Fearless Female Award. She’s also one of the lucky few who met the love of her life at age seventeen: Matt Shirvington, a former Olympian and current sports broadcaster for FOXTEL and Sky News. Married for almost eleven years with two beautiful daughters, Sienna and Winter, Jessica knows her early age romance and its longevity has definitely contributed to how she tackles relationships in her YA novels. Previously, she founded a coffee distribution company, Stella Imports, in London, and before that was involved in the management of restaurants Fuel Bistro and MG Garage in Sydney. Jessica is now a full-time novelist and living her dream.


I did an Interview with Jess when I reviewed book 1, Embrace. So to toss things up a bit I asked her for a quick Q&A to catch up.  Her's a quick peek inside the mind that created this fantastic series (giveaway details to follow)!


 

*For those not familiar with your series, The Violet Eden Chapters, can you give a brief.

EMBRACE:
It starts with a whisper: "It's time for you to know who you are..." On her 17th birthday, everything will change for Violet Eden. The boy she loves will betray her. Her enemy will save her. She will have to decide just how much she's willing to sacrifice. Dangerously exciting and darkly romantic, EMBRACE is a compelling novel of good and evil, seductive desires and impossible choices. A centuries old war between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity chooses a new fighter. It's a battle Violet doesn't want, but she lives her life by two rules: don't run and don't quit. If angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden.

ENTICE:

Seventeen-year-old Violet Eden’s whole life changed when she discovered she is Grigori - part angel, part human. Her destiny is to protect humans from the vengeance of exiled angels. Knowing who to trust is key, but when Grigori reinforcements arrive, it becomes clear everyone is hiding something. Even her partner, Lincoln.

 

And now Violet has to learn to live with her feelings for him while they work together to stay alive and stop the exiles from discovering the key to destroy all Grigori. It isn’t easy. Especially when the electricity between her and exile Phoenix ignites, and she discovers his hold over her has become more dangerous than ever. The race halfway across the world to find the one artifact that could tilt the balance of power between Angels and Exiles brings them to the cradle of civilization, where Violet's power will be pushed to the extreme. And the ultimate betrayal exposed.

 

*What has been the most interesting comment/review for Embrace?

That is a hard question. I find all the reviews and comments interesting. It always amazes me what people take away from a story and what stays with them the most. No two people ever read a story in the same we. We all imagine the characters differently and have different expectations for the outcome. I do admit I find it really interesting when people try to predict what is going to happen in the next book. Sometimes it is way off track but other times people might hit on something and it really impresses me.

*What is involved in your daily writing process?  Playlist; Routine; certain authors or movies that you view for research?

I don't have any one set routine. I'm a bit haphazard and that is mostly due to a fairly hectic schedule. When I am drafting I keep my head down. I need to close myself in a room with my computer and not much else. The key is to keep the distractions away so that I can keep moving forward. The best days are those that I spend 12 to 15 hours typing - I wish I had more of them! Some days, however, it just isn't possible as I also have to fit in editing, proofing, emails, blogging etc. I do have playlists for all of the books but I tend to listen to them when I am in the car or at other times when it isn't possible to be writing - that way I am still thinking about the characters, still considering the next scene. Er...yes, I'm slightly obsessive!

*What book are you currently reading?

I just finished ADAPTATION by Malinda Lo and next I will be reading RIFT by Andrea Cremer.

*What's next for Violet and Lincoln?
Tammy, I know you are reading Entice at the moment so there is no way I am spoiling the story for you! But, I think I am safe in saying A LOT! :)

 

 

Amazon/Embrace: http://www.amazon.com/Embrace-ebook/dp/B006PJKCOE/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1347807128&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=violet+eden+chapters
 

Amazon/Entice: http://www.amazon.com/Entice-Embrace-Jessica-Shirvington/dp/1402268432/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347806645&sr=1-1&keywords=jessica+shirvington

Link to my review for book 1 at Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/review/edit/12288524

 

 

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Betrayal Blog Tour; Review, Spotlight & Giveaway

 

 

 

In this action-packed thriller sequel to Envy, foreign exchange student Olivia Grant is stabbed to death after a party--and the prime suspect is her best friend. As twins Hayley and Taylor Ryan get pulled into the aftermath of this Amanda Knox-like crime, they realize nothing is what it seems. Could it be betrayal of the ultimate kind?

Betrayal features real-life crime-solving techniques, heart-stopping suspense, plenty of red herrings, hard-hitting ethical questions, and information about the Amanda Knox case that inspired the novel. As the crime unravels, so does the twins' past…and they must face off against a family member who may unexpectedly have carried out the worst betrayal of all.

 

 

Dark and utterly creepy, Betrayal will have you speeding through the pages; anxious to see what happens on the next in an Amanda Knox-esque story. You'll be utterly wrapped up in this book trying to figure out who done it! Olsen's follow up to Envy is Fabulous, blurring the lines between Fact and Fiction.

 

Back are your favorite twins Hayley and Taylor (or HayTay as their friends call them) with their slightly supernatural addition to the storyline, their psychiatrist mom and crime novel writer dad. Having this eclectic family as well as other familiar base characters continuing on through these books makes Olsen's world even more concrete.

 

As with Envy (the 1st novel in The Empty Coffin series) you will be running in circles trying to figure out who did what, who is the killer and (most importantly) why? And, just when you think you have it figured out Olsen throws yet another delightful twist in there and takes you down a completely different dark and dangerous path. Olsen’s style of writing is very much like the movie Crash, he takes close to a dozen story lines and runs you here and there, almost to the point of whiplash, in search of the anticipated conclusion!

 

I am anxiously awaiting book 3, Guilty. I give this one 4/5 but, that's just my two cents

 

 

A Seattle native who lives in Washington State, Gregg has seen the darker side of the
Pacific Northwest and knows a little more about the area than your average guy. “There
is something dark and beautiful about the Pacific Northwest," he says. “We seem to
have an overabundance of serial killers out here–so many, in fact, sometimes I wonder
if they have a secret convention in Washington.”
A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with 13 books and sales of over
one-million copies to his credit, Gregg made his young-adult fiction debut with Envy.
The follow-up, Betrayal, will be published in September 2012.
Links:
Website: http://www.emptycoffinseries.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreggOlsenAuthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Gregg_olsen
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15035.Gregg_Olsen

 

 

 

 



    

 

 

Giveaway provided by JeanBookNerd

 



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Jay Mims Blog Tour, The Cult of Koo Kway

Dan, Abbey, and Doc are all back and so is trouble in this second novel by cozy mystery author, Jay Mims.

Dan’s sister Jules, high profile criminal defense attorney, has asked for his help with a very dangerous client. Just as soon as Dan takes the case, Doc shows up poisoned on Dan’s doorstep and the only clue is a reference to an old movie, The Cult of Koo Kway.  *amazon.com*

 

Dan and Abby are back in this next installment in The Oncoming Storm series, as well as Dan's sarcastic yet witty sense of humor. Mims has even brought in a few comical side characters as members of "The Cult". This book picks up right where book 1 left off; but we are quickly whisked away, back in time to the day this unlikely pair first met.. and what a day it was! Let's just say hand cuffs a switch blade and pepper spray were involved. How very Dan Landis. I must admit, I wanted a bit more page time with Gary (the 21st century version of Shaft) alas, perhaps in book 3. 

When Doc shows up on Dan's kitchen floor, notably drugged and unconscious, our crime busting pair find themselves smack dab in the middle of their first mystery. Professor's at the college Doc teaches at (and Abby attends) are going missing and it's up to Dan and Abby to find out why. Lots of twists and turns and even an "oh no he did NOT!" moment, in the end I was definitely pleased with this one. 

What I've enjoyed most about these books is the growth Mims shows from one book to the next. He's created this world and these characters that are straight out of a 70's esque crime drama and yet, tweaked for our current decade. And I'll be damned if Dan and Abby couldn't find trouble at an insurance seminar! 

I give this one 4.5/5.. not quite yet a 5 but, Mims gets better with each book.

I eagerly await the 3rd book (cough.. another blog tour Jay.. cough, cough)! 

So, since Jay humbly agreed to an interview last time around I thought for this review I would ask him to do a Guest post; a few minutes inside the mind that is Jay Mims................

 

Hello Gentle Readers, It was a treat for me to guest post at the end of this Tour, thanks to Tam and her Two-Cents. Which, if that’s not the name of a band, I don’t know what is.

 

And I, honestly, have felt this blog tour was a bit like a big band tour. Seriously, I have a tux and we’ve been going around playing music. We usually start with Choo-Choo Ch'Boogie, try to do as much Garland as possible, and always end on White Christmas. Brings the house down.

 

Granted, none of that is true, but how awesome would it be? We could be Two-Cents Tam and the Night Writers, and it just is all people who are not professional musicians. And ever since the Rock Bottom Remainders have quit, I think there’s a definite niche for this!

 

Who’s with me? Also, thanks for coming along and hope you’ll stick around for the continued zaniness.

 

J

 

 

A huge thankyou to Author Jay Mims, HK Savage "Grand Pubah" with Staccato Publishing and all the blogs that participated and made this tour Fantastic!

Mary @ A Page Away
Ruthi and MaryAnn @ R&M Fab Book Reviews
Anne Marie Brewer @ Little Miss Sunshine
Rose @ Rose's Book Corner
Loush and David @ The O'Raven Chronicles

 

 





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Born in Flames Blog Tour. Interview, Review & Giveaway.

 

Red mirrored scales race up my arms as the haze of pain blurs my vision. My bones crack, breaking to realign. I scream. It is then that the realization of my unavoidable fate sinks in; I am of a dying race. I am dragon.

Aurora Megalos, orphaned and teetering on the edge of adulthood, thought finding her past would curb the sting of being an outcast. Having no memories of the time before she awoke on her foster mother’s doorstep, she yearns for the emptiness inside her to be filled. With her fellow orphaned best friend, Fenn, by her side, she has nothing to lose and everything to gain. But something powerful stirred within her that she couldn’t explain. Something wanted out.

In the dark of night, a crazed Seer, dubbed Mr.Creepy, erases everything she’s ever known with an impending prophecy. She now faces two paths. Return to her true home to protect a dying race against a growing evil, or stay hidden in the safety of our realm with a shot at a true love. With a vengeful Arch Enemy stopping at nothing to see her dead, she’s running out of time; a decision must be made. What would you choose? *amazon.com*

 

What a fantastic departure from the norm. From the very first page Knoebel begins weaving her fantastical tale... Aurora is a dragon, the progeny of a dying race sent to our world for her protection. This is where our story begins.

 

What we have is a unique and fresh new story to capture our attention! As we turn the pages we learn more and more about our heroine, Rory (Aurora) and her best friend Fenn. Neither one having any memory of their life until they found each other, they struggle to maintain balance and a "normal" life Rory longs for. Neither one knowing that their past holds the key to their future.

 

The character development throughout this book is engrossing. Rory is a smart, independent young women in search of her past, but insecure and slightly withdrawn due to incident's that have plagued her through her youth. Fenn is steadfast and protective, having secrets of his own but fiercely loyal to Rory and dedicated to finding out the truth about who they are, and where they came from.

 

Intriguing secondary characters add depth like Mr. Creepy, appearing out of nowhere and superbly living up to his name, he adds the (for lack of a better word) creep factor. Zordon the ultimate bad guy and his son Zane, every book should have a character you love to hate, enter Zordon. Lexi, a protector sent to Rory from her realm adds that best friend aspect, and she's a kick ass side kick!

 

But time is running out for Rory and Fenn, will they find the keys they need to unlock their elusive past and find their way home? When the time comes, what choice will Rory make?

 

I give this book 5/5, if you're a Sophie Jordan fan you will LOVE this book! And not a moment too soon I might add, as our final book in the Firelight trilogy is out this week, Knoebel gives us something to fill that void.

 

Here is my Author Interview with the brilliant mind behind my new favorite book; Candace Knoebel (contest details to follow).



 

 

 

 

 

*Tell us a bit about yourself.  

Hi Tammy and thanks for having me!

I guess I should start with the most important thing about myself; I am a stay-at-home mom to two little ones-Logan (my five-year-old) and Scarlett (my 19-month-old). They make the world go round. J I love music, art, dancing, laughing, good food, scary movies, midnight premiers, lace, Pinterest, Tobuscus, 30 Seconds to Mars…typical normal stuff I suppose. I have a very short attention span and become bored quite easily…sometimes to the point of being a bit annoying. *shrugs* Writing seems to be the only real thing that I think I’ve seen all the way through. I own a pair of Heely’s that I love to roll around in and I have a fetish with dying my hair. It’s currently pink….and now I digress.  

*Where were you born and where do you call home?  

I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida and I reside in Davenport, Florida. My thoughts on living in Florida…ehh. The heat is almost always unbearable and ridiculous. I swear we should all be paper thin.  And the worst part is, we don’t really have seasons here. I didn’t even realize that September meant fall. I thought it was still summer. The only plus is Harry Potter is a 15 minute drive away from me and the ocean is an hour.  

*What was your inspiration for Born in Flames ? 

I’ve always loved anything mythical and magical. When I first thought up the idea, I wanted to create something original. At the time when I started the novel, Vampires had taken over EVERYTHING. Don’t get me wrong, I am a Twilight fanatic (midnight premiers and merchandise bought), but I needed a break from it. So I just sat down one night and started typing for the hell of it and it just kind of kept going until those two final words: the end. After a long pow-wow with the bestie, I knew where my life needed to go as opposed to the rut it was in (working in Purgatory-literally). But as far as inspiration goes: music, magic, images, good reading…it’s in everything really. Anything that touches my soul. 

*For those who are unfamiliar with your novel; Born in Flames, how would you introduce it? 

I’d share my book trailer first and foremost: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu5qbaMXxh0.  I put quite a bit of time into it and am pretty proud considering I walked into the project clueless. I still wake up wondering how I figured it out. But it’s a YA Fantasy about a girl who discovers she is not only a part of a prophecy that binds our two worlds together, but also part dragon. It’s a fast-paced novel set in first person that leaves you on the edge of your seat, praying that she will make the right choice. Not to mention that her Arch Enemy, Zordon, is also bound to her by The Fates. Their fates tie into one another so she must figure out a way to destroy him without destroying herself. This of course, is stretched throughout the Trilogy.  

*What are the Pro’s and Con’s to being an Indie Author?  

My publisher, 48fourteen, makes it pretty easy for me. Besides having to approve the edits when they are sent to me, I spend most of my time finishing and worrying over the next novel. Juanita (the head of 48fourteen) is fantastically wonderful to work with. Back to the point (I tend to ramble) the pro’s are the satisfaction of knowing that your work is out there for the world to see and that you have made. You are published!  I haven’t really found any cons so far.  

*What has been the most interesting comment (or review) about your book? 

I haven’t received any as of yet. But I’m hoping they will all be good. A girl has to dream…right?  

*Whom in your life would you say has influenced you the most?

You know, I get asked this a lot, and every answer ends up a little different. I don’t think there is any one person or one thing that holds the majority of my inspiration. For me, it varies day to day. A song on my ipod, a good chapter in a novel, my bestie kicking ideas around with me. Inspirations strikes me randomly and usually when I least expect it.  

*Who is YOUR favorite Author?  

Now this answer will always be the same. J.K. Rowling. I started her first novel around the same age as Harry was in the book. So I impatiently waited year after endless year for each new novel to come to print. I don’t think anyone could match her genius in what she has created. It is timeless and will forever fill children with wonder and magic. I’ve already started the first with my son. He’s so cute when he laughs at the silly remarks Hagrid makes. 

*What are you reading right now?  

Right now I am reading Eternal Eden…but I am a very slow reader. I also find it hard to get pulled into books… which is odd considering, but it’s the truth. If the book doesn’t suck me in right off the bat, it’s usually a long stretch to the finish from there. I’m hoping to fix this issue, especially now that I have discovered the brilliance of Goodreads. All these beautiful books are out there, just waiting for me to devour them.  

*Tell us your latest news. 

My latest news…my son went a whole week without a note from his teacher in his planner pertaining to his jabber mouth (he gets it honest). *grin* 

No, seriously, my latest news is that I’ve finished my second installment to the trilogy, Embracing the Flames. I am doing my final read-through before I send it off to my lovely publisher, Juanita. All the while secretly hoping that I make it to print (but that’s just between us) ;) I am hoping to be finished with my edits by the end of September and then the road to being published begins again. For that, I can’t wait! 

Thank you again for having me. This was such a fun chat!

 

Thank you Candace for taking the time to answer my questions and sharing on the blog. I wish you much success with the series and can't wait for book 2!

Author's blog: http://candaceknoebel.wordpress.com/

Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Candace-Knoebel/190993824332540

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandaceKnoebel
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Born-in-Flames-ebook/dp/B0096PPK4Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1347404792&sr=1-1&keywords=born+in+flames
 

                                                                                     



 



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Interview, Review & Giveaway. THE FIVE SANTAS, BOOK 1 IN THE ONCOMING STORM SERIES BY JAY MIMS

 

 

Dan Landis is a private investigator used to peeping in windows and taking awkward pictures to make a buck. This winter, to make a few more, he agreed to help out a local department store by taking a job in their Loss Prevention department. Boring right? Wrong.

A local jewelry store gets robbed and then the bodies start piling up. Red suited, fur trimmed, white bearded bodies. And Dan's the one who keeps showing up at all the wrong places. It won't be long before Dan is spending the holiday behind bars if he can't figure this one out. *amazon.com*

 

What a quirky and ecentric character Mims has created in the form of Dan Landis, as if 5 dead Santas wasn't intriguiging enough (yes FIVE!). Well thought out and executed storyline, a little slow to start for me but, once Mims found his footing it was a fast ride. I thought I was at the end at one point then noticed I still had several dozen pages to go, hmmmmm... love it when a book throws a twist in there on me.

There is also an underlying story there, between Dan and Abbey, an innocent little romance blossoming. Will this little blossum be torn to shreds with the prospect of Abbey working with Dan? Will Dan be able to stop the Santa killings? You'll just have to grab your own copy and see!

My interest is piqued; I anxiously await the next installment in this gritty little crime series (The Cult of Koo Kway out September 18th). I give this one 4/5 but, that's just my two cents.

 

 

Jay Mims lives about two miles past nowhere, after you turn off the paved road. When he's not catching up on episodes of Scarecrow and Mrs. King he writes, mainly to stave off boredom. In addition to somewhat eclectic tastes in television and movies, Jay reads voraciously.
  He enjoys compelling stories with strong characters, and will gladly read anything from comic books to Steam Punk, Harlequin romance to Kenneth C. Davis' fantastic history books. Jay enjoys long walks through the countryside, laughing with friends, and learning to draw something better than stick figures.
His dearest ambition is to personally thank Janet Evanovich for proving that fast talking characters can be charming and goofy simultaneously.

Now you know I had to get inside this guys head!  Thanks so much to Author Jay Mims in association with Staccato Publishing for making this Blog Tour possible.  Here is my Interview with Mr. Mims (contest details to follow).

 

*Tell me a bit about yourself. 

Well, I’m a writer by night. By day Iteach Communications. I always tell my fellow writers: NEVER QUIT YOUR DAY JOB! Unless you’re making Scrooge McDuck levels of money, in which case you’ll just be spending all your leisure time swimming in your giant money bin.

*Where were you born and where do you call home?

I’m originally from Upstate SC, up near Greenville? Anytime I mention I’m from South Carolina, I just say “Yeah, it’s near Charleston.” But, it’s actually not too far from Charleston. I live in a nice hub between Charlotte, Atlanta, Charleston and Greenville. Which is to say all of South Carolina. And I hope to at some point visit South of the Border. As a Palmetto State native, I’ve never been to that particular attraction, the equivalent of NYC denizens having never visited the Statue of Liberty. If the Statue were a giant sombrero, and there were 17 million billboards advertising its wares.  

*Who was your inspiration for DanLandis?

That’s a good question…The character himself was an amalgam of every detective arch type, but at the same time, I wanted to have someone you could party with. However, I think if David Tennant and Barney from “How I Met Your Mother” had a lovechild, and it was raised by Shawn from “Psych” then that would be Dan. Or a really messed up baby. Or both.

*For those who are unfamiliar with yournovel; The Five Santas, how would you introduce it?

“The Five Santas” is a happy-go-lucky mystery about a down on his luck detective who stumbles across the body of Santa. Not THE Santa, but a street corner Santa. Comedy ensues. It’s a murder mystery that is all about love, family, murder, and the importance of a thoughtful gift.  

*What are the Pro's and Con's to being apublished Author?

I’d say the major Pro is that you have a creative outlet, the chance to create an entire universe, and the opportunity to be a story teller. Stories have a way of affecting people that can’t be duplicated, and a well told story can always get beneath our defenses. It’s also nice to be able to pour bits of yourself into the work, to discover things that you never realized.  

Of course, the Con is that not everyone is going to like your work. It’s always important to have the healthy perspective that “Hey, I don’t like everything. Why should they be different?”Of course, it’s also important to know that not everything you do is golden. There will be some flawed elements, and even though you may find a “Coupling” reference funny, not everyone will agree.  

*What was the first thing you did when you got the news you were being published?

There may have been some serious jumping up and down. I’ll take you to one better. When Heather, chief Poobah over at Staccato (my publisher) called to tell me that Barnes and Noble had picked up my book? That was the moment where I felt like a real author. That was the moment when I called everyone I knew. I still smile thinking about that moment. 

*Whom in your life would you say has influenced you the most?

Everyone? Ha, no my parents have been a huge influence. I get a lot of my balance and strong personality from my Mom, but I get my storytelling and in a lot of ways my sense of humor from my Dad.  

*What has been the most interesting comment (or review) about your book?

The most interesting? Probably when onereviewer called my character development “radiant”. I kind of want to put that up somewhere. Maybe not as an ego wall, but just as something I can turn to when I get to feeling frustrated.  

*Who is YOUR favorite Author?

Terry Pratchett! Hands down, Sir Terry is amazing, and I love his books tremendously. He has a way of developing the characters, and telling the story in such a way that everything in the universe feels connected. Plus, he’s just really funny. And moving at the same time. I would put “THIS IS NOT MY COW!” as one of the best fighting anthems ever.  

*What are you reading right now?

Two books: I’m reading “Fool Moon” by Jim Butcher, which is the second book in the Dresden Files series, and “Bourne Ultimatum” by Robert Ludlum. It just occurred to me that I’m reading the second book in two completely different series. Now I just need a double breasted suit, bowler hat, and twin henchman! Sorry, had a Batman villain moment. 

*Tell us your latest news

The absolute latest? I’m continuing work on the third book in the “Oncoming Storm” quartet within this series, which is called “The Gray Ghost Inn”. It’s a traditional murder mystery set at an honest to goodness Bed and Breakfast. I feel like I’m channeling Agatha Christie, and might have Dan use his “little gray cells.” 

I’m also working on the screenplay for “The Five Santas”, which I hope to have done here soon. I’m wanting to be done with as much writing as possible, because I want to write the fourth book, “Chasing The Storm” for NaNoWriMo. Because I’m nothing if not ambitious



 

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Jay-Mims/e/B008MX9ZQW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1346365396&sr=1-2-ent

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Jay-Mims/159855220771076

 





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