The Best Reader [Search results for Short Story] 

Today Taryn Browning is here to talk about her short story, Dark Beauty. She's here telling us why she created this short story to go along with her Dark Seeker novel.

Enter below for a chance to win a personalized copy!

Thank you for having me on your blog. I’m so excited to talk about Dark Beauty, a short story and prequel to my Dark Seeker novel.

I was inspired to write this series by one of my all-time favorite TV shows, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Like Buffy, the female characters in both stories (Isabelle and Janie) are strong, independent teenagers who don’t take lightly to assistance, especially from the opposite sex. Plus, both girls battle the undead and are kick-ass heroines, a trait that I love in female characters.

In Dark Beauty, Isabelle and Abram are Seekers, similar to vampire slayers, only they are up against a new vampire hybrid called Daychildren. A stake isn’t going to take them out. Readers will also find Isabelle and Abram in my Dark Seeker novel, only in different roles. Dark Beauty takes the reader back 20 years, when Isabelle and Abram were active Seekers. I really loved writing Isabelle’s character. She is spunky and very strong willed, making for entertaining banter between her and Abram. While writing Dark Beauty, I had to think about what Abram would have been like as a teenager, since he is much older in Dark Seeker. I wanted him to have a cocky arrogance, but also a caring and loyal side. He is quite stubborn in Dark Seeker, so I needed Abram to have specific traits and a back-story that moved him in this direction.

I’ve received such wonderful reviews for Dark Seeker, and interest for more, that I’m writing another short story to continue Isabelle and Abram’s fight to rid the city of the new and more deadly Daychildren. This has been an amazing experience and I’m so grateful for the positive feedback. Thank you again, Jessica, for allowing me to discuss the series on your blog. I’ve had a fantastic time.

Dark Beauty by Taryn Browning (Short Story)
Publisher: Createspace (July 30, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Paperback: 54 pages
For fifteen-year-old Seeker, Isabelle Crowe, ridding the Houston streets of the undead is an inherited duty, passed down from her Cherokee ancestors. During her first night without her mentor, she encounters Abram, a more experienced Seeker from Chicago looking to avenge his cousin's death. Isabelle quickly learns she must work with Abram to protect her city. With one Seeker already dead, Isabelle's love of the hunt becomes a fight to survive.

Giveaway Prize:

• 1 winner will receive a SIGNED (personalized) copy of Dark Beauty by Taryn Browning.

• You must be at least 13 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is US Only and ends September 19th.
• Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

Find Taryn Browning
Website | Goodreads | Twitter

Purchase Dark Beauty
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

I came across this review over at The Bookworm shortly after having read and taught "The Necklace" for the first time. I hadn't thought of reviewing the short stories in our current unit, but it's a great idea and I'm a bit embarrassed that I hadn't thought of it before.

"The Necklace" was this unit's first short story and I felt like it went really well. If you haven't read it, add a bit of "class" to your life and spend five minutes reading it online for free. But in case you refuse to leave my presence — a synopsis:

"The Necklace" follows Madame Loisel and her husband through a decade of troubles. Monsieur Loisel is a clerk and thus, despite Mme. Loisel's dreams of being rich and fashionable, the pair live comfortably at a clerk's wage. One day M. Loisel brings home an invitation of a big party but Mme. Loisel isn't happy because she lacks an evening gown. So, giving up money for a rifle, M. Loisel gives his wife money for the dress. Weeks pass and Mme. Loisel is still unhappy because she doesn't have a piece of jewelry to wear with the nice dress. M. Loisel suggests she ask a more wealthy friend to loan her a nice piece of jewelry.

The night of the party comes and Mme. Loisel dances with everyone including the prestigious Minister of Education (if you are teaching this short story, make sure to tell your students that Minister doesn't imply priest — we really struggled with this so I had to bring up The Minister of Magic in order for it to make sense) while her husband, who must work the next morning, sleeps in an arm chair. By four in the morning the party subsides and couple return home only to find out that the priceless diamond necklace that Mme. borrowed is missing! M. Loisel offers to retrace their steps in search for the necklace while Mme. Loisel sits at home and worries — again, he must go to work at 10am.

A week passes and the couple take steps to replace the expensive necklace. M. Loisel borrows 36,000 francs from loan sharks and friends — signing his name without certainty that he can ever pay the money back. Mme. Loisel must do their own dishes and laundry by releasing the servant girl from their home. They also move into a smaller home and life basically sucks for ten years.

Ten years pass and the money has all been paid back and Mme. is so proud of herself that she finally tells her friend that she had lost the original necklace and had to replace it and that she and her husband have spent the last ten years slaving to pay off the loans. The friend is aghast to tell Mme. that the original necklace was made of paste and was only worth 500 francs.

I love a bit of dramatic irony in the morning!

This was a great story to begin our unit with. The students were a bit weary with character names, but once we got past that I think they thoroughly enjoyed discussing this short story (maybe even more than reading it!). The vocabulary words we focused on with this story were facade, prospects, privation, and misogynist. The students are still struggling with facade, so many of them want to say "facading" and "She is facade." But I think the term misogynist was definitely the highlight of this unit.

We spent an entire day discussing whether Guy de Maupassant was a misogynist or not. He did, after all, set Madame Loisel up with all these troubles. Her portrayal was that of a selfish, egotistical, unhappy girl who was dissatisfied with absolutely every attempt to make her happy by her husband. The other side, of course, is that is her portrayal an unfair one or simply honest? With this side we talked about Prom and the fact that with prom most students (not all) buy a new expensive dress every year and with the dress, jewelery, hair, nails, shoes, limos and all of the other "necessities" ensue. So is the portrayal of Madame misogynistically unfair or an honest portrayal of women?

"The Necklace" and the discussion that followed added a depth to my class that I was unprepared for and I highly suggest reading it. You'd assume it is out of date, but I guess the question is: has society really changed as much as we think it has?

To the FTC, with love: Class Read

"The Cask of Amontillado" is by far one of my most favorite short stories — ever. In college we spent an entire forty minutes talking about the last few lines of the shorty story and several other class periods analyzing the story in general. When I discovered that I'd be teaching it this year I was so excited and basically counting down the days until our Short Story Unit.

Well, the time came and went and basically this is how it went.

Set during the Carnival before Lent (think Mardi Gras), "Cask" centers around two different characters: Montressor and Fortunato. Montressor, our narrator, has been wronged or insulted by Fortunato for many reasons that readers never find out. Montressor baits a drunken Fortunato, dressed in a jester's motley, by asking for his opinion on a particular sherry, or amontillado. Fortunato follows Montressor through the wine cellars of the palazzo where they wander in the catacombs (burial vaults underground).

When Montressor and Fortunato reach the end of the catacombs, Montressor tells Fortunato that the Amontillado is within the narrow space (think fire place). Fortunato enters the space and due to his intoxication does not resist as Monstressor chains him to the wall. Montressor, brick by brick, closes the niche with Fortunato inside — basically burrying him alive. With just a brick or two left to put in place, Fortunato laughs and tries to pretend that this is all a joke and that his wife will be missing him. Montressor mocks him by replying "Yes, for the love of God." Montressor listens for a reply and throws his burning torch through the gap in the niche but only hears the jester's bells ringing.

We spent most of the first day of class talking about Poe and the setting of "Cask." I described the catacombs, burial vaults, and the palazzo. We discussed what happens to decomposing bodies and all the "muck" that these two men would have had to walk through in order to get to the amontillado at the end. We discussed why they would keep their wine underground with their dead. We spent much of our time looking at pictures and discussing the setting in order for the students to realize that it's not just the theme and plot of this story that is dark — but the story in its entirety.

After reading the novel we discussed whether Fortunato deserved the punishment but we agreed that, because we don't know what he did exactly, that Montressor was probably crazy and over-reacted. This part of the class discussion was pretty generic — it wasn't until we discussed the ending that my students really started to get interested.

As I told my students:

The jingling of the bells. According to scholars, one of two things could have happened here.

Option A: Fortunato suffered a heart attack, stroke, or some other deadly reaction to being buried alive and died as Montressor placed the last brick. Thus when Montressor dropped the burning torch in the niche he may have hit the jester's hat causing the jingling of the bells. Fortunato's death made it impossible for him to beg for his life, attempt to bribe or (subsequently) threaten Montressor, or even cry out or scream. If one was being buried alive, wouldn't they have tried all of these things? Would they have given up so quickly after only one attempt?

Option B (my favorite): Fortunato was very much alive when Montressor threw the burning torch in the niche — the jingle of the bells was simply him moving out of the way of the fire, squeezing against the wall perhaps. His lack of effort (bribing, threatening, screaming, crying, etc) was due to the realization that if he were to do that he'd be giving Montressor exactly what he wanted. By refusing to react or acknowledge Monstressor, Fortunato was fundamentally robbing Montressor of his satisfaction of revenge. Fortunato simply decided to withhold from Montressor what Montressor really wanted — to hear Fortunato beg for his life, to hear Fortunato cry out.

Are you thinking yet? My students sure were.

What kind of will power would you have to succumb to the realization that you were going to probably starve to death or suffocate alone in the depths of your enemies catacombs and to die quietly? Wouldn't anyone cry, beg, threaten for their lives? Did he simply pass out (he was intoxicated after all)? What was the jingling of the bells!?!?! I could see my students' thinking the possibilities through until finally, in one class, a student raised their hand and said "Miss Remmers, so what happened? What's the right answer?"

"Well that's the point isn't it. I don't know," I said. "The only person who does know is Edgar Allan Poe."

"So there's no right answer?" The student asked.

"No! That's the great thing about literature folks. As long as you can back your answer up, you can't really be wrong (again, as long as you can back it up)."

"The Cask of Amontillado" was really my students' first experience with ambiguity. There isn't always an answer to literature. Somethings are left for the reader to decipher and analyze. Some of my more "type A" students were extremely perturbed by this and "needed" an answer. But for my more creative thinkers and, dare I say, rebellious students, this ambiguity gave them the freedom they were seeking in English class. The freedom to have an opinion, back it up, and not be counted "wrong."

Yes, I had fun teaching this short story but more importantly, as a result of "Cask," my student's realized that not everything is black and white and sometimes there just isn't going to be a "right answer."

Read "The Cask of Amontillado" online.

To the FTC, with love: Class Read

A Bonus 13 to Life Prequel Story:

Meet Jessie Gillmansen as she realizes that things might not be what they seem in the town of Junction.
Download for Free from Barnes and Noble.com Download for Free from Amazon
Purchase "13 to Life" from Barnes and Noble.com
Purchase "13 to Life" from Amazon
"Beasts and BFF's" is a short prequel to Delany's "13 to Life. " This was the first eBook I downloaded to Sam, my Nook and I'm so happy I did! I loved "13 to Life " and am eagerly awaiting the release of "Secrets and Shadows" release on February 15th.

If you haven't already read "13 to Life " I highly recommend downloading "Beasts and BFF's." If you don't have an eReader you can still download this eBook to your iTouch or even your computer. It's a very short read so it won't hurt your eyes — and, like I said, it's FREE! Reading the entirety of this short story would take less than 30 minutes (really, who of us would be bothered by reading a computer screen for 30 minutes).

Surprising about this short story, while I didn't add a heck of a lot to the plot of "13 to Life " it sure got me in the mood for a good run! I know, weird right? The entire story takes place on a run with the protagonist and just reading about Jessie lacing up her running shoes and fighting through the burn made me want to lace up my own shoes — and I hate running!

Overall, this was a great little quick read. It was almost like a tease, it's been so long since reading "13 to Life " that I didn't realize how much I missed Shannon's writing and her captivating characters. Reading "Beasts and BFF's" has made me only anticipate "Secrets and Shadows" more!

Secrets and Shadows — 2/15/11

Bargains and Betrayals 8/16/11
To the FTC, with love: Bought

Janice Gable Bashman is the author of WANTED UNDEAD OR ALIVE: Vampire Hunters and Other Kick-Ass Enemies of Evil. She also has written for THE BIG THRILL, NOVEL & SHORT STORY WRITER’S MARKET, THE WRITER, WILD RIVER REVIEW, and many others. She can be reached at www.janicegablebashman.com.
Jonathan Maberry is a NY Times bestseller, multiple Bram Stoker Award-winner and a writer for Marvel Comics. He has written a number of award-winning nonfiction books and novels on the paranormal and supernatural, including WANTED UNDEAD OR ALIVE, THE CRYPTOPEDIA, VAMPIRE UNIVERSE, THEY BITE, ZOMBIE CSU and PATIENT ZERO. He can be reached at www.jonathanmaberry.com.

Writers Who Changed Our Worlds
by Janice Gable Bashman and Jonathan Maberry

Readers. Writers. We all love a good book. Whether it’s a mystery, thriller, horror, fantasy, science fiction, etc. And we can all remember our favorites. Those books that kept us reading long after we should have stopped to do something else, the books that kept us up late into the night when we had school or work the next day. As authors we strive to be the one who does that to readers, whose work is so compelling it keeps readers from doing anything else but reading. Because, let’s face it. We all love a good book.
For our book WANTED UNDEAD OR ALIVE: Vampire Hunters and Other Kick-Ass Enemies of Evil, we interviewed tons of authors (and screenwriters, filmmakers, actors, and others) about their favorite good vs. evil book, movie, and comic, so we thought we’d discuss the writers that have influenced us over the years.
JANICE GABLE BASHMAN: There are so many writers I could list, but these are three that have influenced me tremendously.

SHIRLEY JACKSON—When I read Shirley Jackson’s short story “The Lottery,” first published in 1948, I couldn’t believe the horror and the shock she elicited in only a few pages. It’s been at least 20 years since I first read the story and the memory of it still sends chills down my spine and makes me cringe. It’s a perfect blend of horror, suspense and ancient ritual. Characters so real you can’t help but relate to them and be thankful you aren’t them.

Jackson also wrote the incredible horror novel HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE, published in 1959.

Jackson’s work has affected me both as a reader and a writer.

JAMES ROLLINS—The thriller lover in me admires how James Rollins (DEEP FATHOM, ICE HUNT, ALTER OF EDEN, DOOMSDAY KEY, etc.) combines action-adventure with science, exploration, mystery, fear, horror, archeology, etc. to create a story that always keeps me turning the pages. As a writer, I look at his work and am amazed at how he pulls it off, how he combines so many factors to create a plausible and enjoyable read. But he does… and that’s the beauty of it.

WALTER MOSLEY—I’m a big fan of Walter Mosley’s stories featuring Socrates Fortlow (ALWAYS OUTNUMBERED, ALWAYS OUTGUNNED; WALKIN’ THE DOG; THE RIGHT MISTAKE). How he describes his characters. The language he uses to create his tales. How every sentence, every word, is chosen for its precise meaning. How the spot-on dialogue makes the characters so vivid. How he tells the story of real people in real situations doing real things but fills those stories with so much meaning. To study Walter Mosley’s stories is a great lesson in writing.

JONATHAN MABERRY:

RICHARD MATHESON: I met Matheson when I was fourteen, and he took some time to have a few long chats with me about writing, creativity, the business of publishing, and about developing an analytical mind. Matheson’s novels are always different, always hard to classify, and often cross-genre. His 1954 classic, I AM LEGEND, is the first real blend of hard science and true horror; and the underlying metaphors of xenophobia, classicism and societal perception are as dead on-target now as they were then. Shame the filmmakers seem to miss Matheson’s whole point, which is alluded to in the title! His other works are equally layered and compelling: THE SHRINKING MAN, THE LEGEND OF HELL HOUSE, WHAT DREAMS MAY COME, STIR OF ECHOES… the list goes on and on.

JAMES LEE BURKE: Burke is probably my favorite living author. His writing is lush, descriptive, subtle, gritty, and always compelling. His Dave Robicheaux novels in particular are filled with sensual phrasing and visceral scenes that make all five of your senses come alive while reading. I particularly love BLACK CHERRY BLUES for its insights into corruption, heroism and redemption; THE TIN-ROOF BLOWDOWN, for the unflinching way Burke presents the social and cultural devastation that resulted from the government’s mishandling of Katrina; and THE GLASS RAINBOW, for showing that even eighteen books into a series that has unfolded over 23 years, Burke still manages to surprise his readers.

JOHN D. MacDONALD: MacDonald’s most celebrated creation was the intellectual boat bum, Travis McGee. Irascible, occasionally antisocial, charming, charismatic, and frequently anti-establishment, Travis is the model for the ‘thinking person’s hero’. The stories were meticulously plotted and laid out along devious pathways that not only made the books a thrill to read for the first time, but a pleasure to re-read. No one has tried to out-MacDonald MacDonald, and that’s a good thing. He was the sharpest knife in the literary drawer. And the books are just so damn much fun!
WANTED UNDEAD OR ALIVE deals with the struggle of good vs evil in film, comics, pop culture, world myth, literature, and the real world. Everything from ghosts to vampire slayers to paranormal investigators to FBI serial-killer profilers. It includes interviews with folks like Stan Lee, Mike Mignola, Jason Aaron, Fred Van Lente, Peter Straub, Charlaine Harris and many more; and the book is fully illustrated by top horror, comics & fantasy artists. In stores everywhere.

Wanted Undead or Alive: Vampire Hunters and Other Kick-Ass Enemies of Evil by Jonathan Maberry & Janice Gable Bashman Publisher: Citadel (September 1st, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 320 pages Discover the nature of Evil- and how to kick its butt!

These days you can-t swing an undead lycanthrope without hitting a Minion of Evil. They-re everywhere-TV, film, the basement-right behind you! It-s never been more important to know what you can do to keep them at bay. Garlic? silver bullets? holy water? torch-wielding mob?

From today-s foremost experts on nightmares-come-to-life, this indispensible guide identifies and describes mankind-s enemies-supernatural beasts, ghosts, vampires, serial killers, etc.-and unearths effective time-proven responses to each horrific threat.

Separate fact from fiction, the deadly from the merely creepy. Learn when to stand your ground and when to run screaming for your life. Determine which monster-specific heroes to call and their likelihood of success. Consider your own potential as a Champion for Good, Conqueror of the Damned.

Whether we-re talking ancient vampire hunters or modern-day FBI profilers, it-s good to know someone-s got your back in the eternal struggle between Good and Evil. And this book, with over fifty illustrations, as well as commentary from luminaries like filmmaker John Carpenter, author Peter Straub, and the legendary Stan Lee, provides all the information and reassurance you need to sleep soundly at night.

Just not too soundly.

Thank you so much Janice and Jonathan for being on my blog today!
For more information Janice Gable Bashman / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads
Jonathan Maberry / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

Purchase from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository

TODAY KICKS OFF THE CROSSROADS TOUR!

This year we have 23 authors that I'll be featuring over 7 days and each day you'll have a chance to enter to win! There's also a scavenger hunt going on, so be sure to check out The Crossroads Tour Post to see what questions will be asked, what blog you'll be able to find the answer on and enter to win!
Today I am featuring P.J. Hoover, Lucienne Diver, Carrie Harris, and Patrice Lyle. Be sure to check out the rafflecopter giveaway, too!

1. Solstice is your first YA novel. What is the biggest thing you learned by writing YA and what was the hardest part of the journey?

The list of things I learned while writing YA could fill an entire blog post, but I’ll stick with this one. Make your characters relatable. The characters in your story should be people that your reader can relate to. It’s as simple as that. The more the reader can relate to the characters, the more they will be able to see bits and pieces of themselves in those same characters. And the more they see of themselves in those characters, the more real the story will feel.
Hardest part of the journey? Developing patience because everything takes so long. When I finally develop it, I’ll let you know.

2. For those who don’t know, can you tell us a little about the world we jump into in Solstice?

Sure! Solstice is a mash-up of dystopia and mythology, two of my favorite genres. It’s set in Austin, TX in the future when global warming is destroying the earth. For the main character, Piper, this is her world until, on her 18th birthday, she opens a mysterious present and all of a sudden this parallel world of mythology starts to explode around her. Her best friend almost dies. Piper has to travel to the Underworld to save her. And there are lots of Greek gods.

1. Of all the characters you have written, which one has been the most challenging for you to

write?

Challenging, hmm. The main character in the super secret project I’ve just sent off to my agent. It’s dark, angsty and suspenseful, not paranormal at all… a departure for me. The main character is going through some really serious stuff. If you’ve read my Vamped and Latter-Day Olympians series, you’ll know that I write very tongue-in-cheek. There’s a lot of suspense, but it’s tempered with humor. But this novel called for a serious approach, and getting that voice down, writing a character who doesn’t take things in stride but is buffeted by the deep darkness of what’s going on around her, was very challenging.

2. You have contributed to a few anthologies. Do you find those easier, or harder, to write than a full length novel?

Infinitely harder! All of my short stories want to be novels, so to condense a storyline into a smaller space and still make it rich and satisfying… that’s a talent all its own. My Vamped series actually started as a short story called “Unlife Style,” but it didn’t stay that way. The first short story I ever had published, “The Problem with Piskies,” didn’t become a novel series, but it did get a sequel, “Imaginary Fiend” in the Strip-Mauled anthology published by Baen Books.

1. In Demon Derby, Casey is into Roller Derby. Have you ever tried that?

I WISH! I do own roller skates, and I have secret (or not so much now that I told you publicly) aspirations to skate at some point. But a few years ago, I was taking a wilderness rescue course and learning to save people who fall off cliffs, and I fell off the cliff. Rolled, mostly, but the end result is the same. I just finished a second round of physical therapy on my knee and hip, and I’m slowly but surely trying to build up my endurance. I have a few friends who skate, and they’re good at motivating me. If by “motivating,” you mean constantly giving me friendly crap about it. Which I find really funny. I think the best friends are the ones who can give you a hard time and make it hilarious. Is it just me?

2. What are 5 words you would use to describe Michael?
Inhuman, awkward, lovable, determined, and HOT.

1. Can you give us a little teaser from your upcoming book?

The Case of the Invisible Witch is the first book in the Poison Ivy Charm School Series, about a young teen witch who runs a private investigation business. It’s like a paranormal Nancy Drew!

Tulip Bonnaire has only 72 hours to figure out her latest case, or her classmate, Missy, will never be seen again. Literally. When Missy shows up in Tulip’s dorm room around midnight, she’s invisible. As in not even x-ray vision could spot her. The mean triplets who call themselves The Belles have cast an invisibility spell on poor Missy. But if Tulip can’t break the spell in 72 hours, Missy will remain invisible forever.It’s a case Tulip can’t resist — between her mom’s annoying new boyfriend and her own secret crush at school, Tulip understands how much it stinks to feel invisible. Luckily for Tulip, her two best friends and her cute, techy guy friend help dig up clues on a case that turns out to be her freakiest one ever.

2. Tell us 5 words you’d use to describe your main characters in the book?

Tulip Bonaire, the main character in The Case of the Invisible Witch, can be described as:
1) Witch PI – Tulip has to be an awesome Witch PI to keep earning her $20 retainer fee, or her discounted retainer of a cup of hot chocolate with tons of whipped cream.
2) Loyal – Tulip is loyal to her best witch friends, Soili and Alexandria, as well as her best warlock friend, Dexter. She throws pizza and root beer float parties after every case they solve.
3) Bug-lover – Tulip loves Monk the Third, her pet praying mantis. She always keeps fruit flies on hand for him.
4) Inquisitive – Tulip loves a good mystery, and the freakier the better!
5) Polite – Tulip goes to a school for polite witches and warlocks, and has to abide by “Queen Withania’s Rules of Refinement.” Tulip thinks the rules are stodgy and lame, but she does her best to follow them.

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"Even though they were separate stories, I flowed from one story to the next seamlessly because they were set up in a way that was just completely natural." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: January 24th, 2012
Publisher: Random House
Challenges: NetGalley Challenge, eBook Challenge, +75 Challenge

"What makes your heart race a little faster? Just in time for Valentine's Day, it's FALLEN IN LOVE, four wholly original new stories collected in a new novel set in the Middle Ages by Lauren Kate. FALLEN IN LOVE gives fans the much-talked about but never-revealed stories of FALLEN characters as they intertwine with the epic love story of Luce and Daniel. The stories include: Love Where You Least Expect It: The Valentine of Shelby and Miles, Love Lessons: The Valentine of Roland; Burning Love: The Valentine of Arriane; and Endless Love: The Valentine of Daniel and Lucinda."

The first short story was probably my favorite, although now that I think about it there were definitely some unrelated loose ends (the hat and it's importance?). Shelby and Miles are two characters that I feel like I've invested in and care about. Roland and Arriane, however, I haven't put any emotional investment into and therefore, sorry to say it, I just didn't really care about their Valentines. Granted, it was interesting to see Roland and Arriane as an MC — but the changing of the POV really threw me off. Not because I couldn't keep up, but because this book is so entirely different than any of the previous novels. At times the style and the tone was so foreign, I had to make sure I was reading the right book by Lauren Kate.

That all said, I loved how intricately woven all four of these stories were. Even though they were separate stories, I flowed from one story to the next seamlessly because they were set up in a way that was just completely natural.

Overall, I'm glad I got this title from NetGalley and I think if I would have, oh, I don't know, read the synopsis, I would have been more prepared. The only other "point five" novella I've read is "Summer's Crossing" by Julie Kagawa, so I was prepared for a novel that had to do with the plot as a whole — not four more or less random (but perfectly linked together) stories.

I also noticed this quote (directly from Shakespeare) that I really appreciated: "Seek happy nights to happy days."

-Visit Lauren around the web here: Website | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley from NetGalley

It is now time to vote on the story entries! Thanks to everyone who entered! We really appreciate you all for sharing your stories with us! We do hope that everyone takes time out to read each story before voting for their favorites! You have until this Friday, the 22nd to vote.
Voters:

• Lisa and I will both be posting the stories.

• The form is the same on both blogs so duplicates will be deleted.
• To vote, put your email address and the number of the story you like into the form.
• Email addresses are only used in order to check for duplicate votes.
• If you are participating in the comment contest, leave your email with the comment for it to be counted. Same as with the other Haunted Halloween posts.
• If you voted, say"I voted!" in the comment and you will get an extra entry into the comment contest.
• Vote for your favorite!

• Feel free to post about the voting starting. Please encourage people to vote for their favorite.
• You can cast a vote for your own story, but only once each round.

Rules:

• This is Round 1 of voting. It will end Friday, the 22nd.
• Round 2 will begin next Sunday, the 24th. It will end Friday, the 29th.
• 8 stories will continue onto Round 2!
• The winners will be announced on Halloween!

Story #1 — Found"Hello my love." Came a horribly familiar voice. I slowly turned around and there he was. My worst nightmare. The last time I saw him he was covered in my blood. My knees felt week and I didn't know if I had the strength to keep them study. He smiled that same dark smile that he had the day he tried to kill me. I thought I had escaped, I thought it was over. As he reached for my hand I knew it would be soon."How I have missed you." He said as our hands met. I felt a tingle run up my arm as he touched me. I couldn’t speak, couldn’t move, everything that I had worked for, to get past the memory of him was gone. All there was in the world was him and his hand upon mine. I couldn’t bring myself to run or to scream. I was lost in his murderous eyes. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #2 — Invisible Gotta find the exit. I just have to. I don't want to die I am too young. He told me that it wouldn't end like this that if I just give him what he needed then he would leave me and my family alone. I have been running for nearly three days and every time I think I am safe I see his shadow again. It all started back when I met the new kid in school. He was gorgeous nonetheless. Always seemed so perfect and mysterious. Apparently my judgment was correct except for the perfect part. As I grew closer to him the more I drew away from school, friends, and even worse my family. There seemed to be something pulling me deeper into his world, something that was turning me almost invisible to the world around me. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #3 — Sun and Moon The obsidian building towered high into the thunderous clouds, and was surrounded by a large iron-wrought fence. Erus, a grim and depressing boy for his age, stared at the bleak view before him: This was to be his new home: The Orphanage. Erus picked anxiously at his raggedy blue sweatshirt. His dark black hair obscured his vision, but gave him a sharper look. The pale skin of his face often made others think that he was dead, maybe a vampire. Maybe he was, no, he most definitely was. Due to the monumental hunger he felt building up inside him like carbon in a soda bottle. Every sense in his body became more acute, and human blood sang beneath luscious skin. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #4 — Ghost girl This was when I was around 17 years old. My parent move us in to our first house after living so long in an apartment. The house had 3 bedrooms and one bathroom. I was sharing a room with my sister, she was 16 year old. My two brother were sharing the room next to ours. my parents room was across the hallway. My room had the only window a/c unit. Our bedroom was the smallest bedroom and we only had a bunkbed an old tv, those old one that had the wooden box arround and with the big knobs. After a week I was watching tv late one night and the tv out of nowhere turn off. I thought the tv had a short and went to sleep. The next week weird things started to happen. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #5 — The Blood Spirit 1920
It was in the small town of Ashbury, New York that the rumor became.
“Oh, Mary, I’ve missed you so much!”
“Hahaha, well, I told you I’d return didn’t I, silly boy.” The girl’s sweet voice filled the room. It was like a drug to Everett and he wanted more. He had long awaited her return spending night after night staring longingly into the mirror on his dresser, until she had finally appeared that night.
“I thought… maybe you had moved on.” Everett’s voice tried to cover his emotions at the thought of losing his beautiful Mary. Mary, the one that had saved him from all the darkness in his life and now he could barely stand to look her in the eyes because of her beauty. They had shown with understanding, but that was all a mask to help cover up the thing she really was. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #6 — The Current-Day 1900's Spiderman: A Little Boy's Tale
A shaggy haired two year old boy with wide eyes watched the hall of his newly built home. Not only was his puppy barking at it but both pet cats were hissing as well. His mommy turned to the hall then back at the display in front of her calling their attention. The little boy dropped his multi-colored duplos and looked to his mommy, his eyes glistening with a look she never seen before, then pointed to the short hall between the living room and the playroom saying one word. “Man.”

The appearances of 'man' didn't stop that one quiet night. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #7 — Friendly Fire Fire. One word. One very short word. And yet, for Kaylee it was the most important word in the world. It was the last thing her mother ever said to her. As a child she had been hurt that her mother hadn’t spoken words of love and encouragement in the last moments of her life, it was only when she was older that she understood the true power behind that one word.

Fire. It brings warmth. It brings light. It brings destruction. And eventually it can bring life. But for Kaylee it brought wonder and mystery and a power so overwhelming that the mere sight of her would strike fear into complete strangers. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #8 — Stranger in the Night"We should dance," Brady smiled. Prom night.
I heard a voice."Excuse me," someone said from behind.

"Sorry, sorry" Brady muttered.

Me, I couldn't speak. It was his eyes; they smoldered. I had never seen a guy with black eyes before. Taking one look at his face --pale, chiseled, eerily handsome-- I was totally, totally lost.

"Stephanie," he grinned. I parted my lips, but couldn't speak.

"Stephanie?" I couldn't hear Brady. I couldn't even tell he was still there. Everything was a big, buzzing blur; his hand at my waist, it wasn't even there. I swear it wasn't. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #9 — The Good Mother Our lake is haunted.

Long ago there was a Mother who fell asleep by the water. While she slept her child crawled into the water and was lost.

The Mother, unwilling to accept her child’s death, dove beneath the waves and disappeared.

Supposedly, she searches for him still. Children roaming near the lake on the night her child disappeared will disappear too. She waits to wrap them in her watery embrace. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #10 — Blackbird Sing They say the beautiful song of the blackbird makes it a symbol of temptations. For the most part, I have been a fairly responsible adult during the course of my life. I live in control and in restraint; I have no weakness.

When I approach the enormous tree with the bare and scraggly branches, I see it is full of blackbirds. I should think something is not right. But with a sensible head resting atop my shoulders, omens never affected me. I could shatter a thousand mirrors and still live in good health and in good luck.

My phone shrills in my pocket. I do not want to pick it up. Instead, I gaze at the still blackbirds, with their graceful feathers and beady eyes. Nothing is wrong. Just a tree full of silly birds. I see them all the time. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #11 — The Mattress Kasey never liked hospitals. They just made her feel uncomfortable. Everything smelled like hand soap or old people, and everything was so… sterile. She especially hated it at night when her room's light was turned off. The hallway would still be brightly lighted — yes, even in the middle of the night — but even the small sliver of light that she could see under her door wasn't comfort enough. Being in the dark scared her, and being in the dark alone was even more frightening.

She had had three concussions in the past spring from playing rugby — three too much. She had spent week after week in hospitals attempting to recover, missing school, missing her friends, missing life. She hardly knew what sunshine felt like. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #12 — Lifeless Love Her breath raced as she ran down the hill. Sweat glistened on her face in the light of the half-moon. Her pursuer was not far behind, his long arms flapping limply at his sides. She turned right and hid behind a trash can and prayed he would pass her by.

“Chloe,” He croaked. “Come out. You know I won’t hurt you. How could I hurt you? I love you.”

Silent tears slid down her face. How she wanted to believe those words. But she knew now that he was lost to her.

Footsteps were heard receding into the distance; he was gone, for now. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #13 — Whisper Damien was filled with dread as he crossed the threshold of Milton Manor. Fear emanated from his every pore, clouded his vision, and burned its way through his lungs with each breath.

Then the whispers began…

Get out! You don’t belong here. This is our home!

With each whisper more and more voices joined in, bringing the words to a crescendo, reverberating around Damien’s head and bombarding his mind. The voices began screaming at Damien, commanding him to leave.

Leave now or we’ll kill them all! Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #14 — Howl at the Moon The sharp ululation had my head snap back. Shivers shot up my spine, the harsh wind causing my cheeks to sting. They were coming for me. I tried to cover my scent with the dirt and foliage around me, but it didnt work. They had super noses, and hearing.
I tripped over a root and landed on my knees and hands. I muffled a cry. I quickly got up, ignoring the globs of blood appearing on my knees. I could almost here them approaching me. My blood ran cold, my limbs grew stiff even as I stumbled my way through the forest. My breath thickened, blood tricked down my legs. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #15 — The Secret Ball Louisiana, 1862 I could hear the carriage roll on the damp stone path. The path where what had mattered most was silently taken from me. I saw men in white masks embellished with jewels and lined with intricate black lace. The men who took Dylan, my love.
Who were they? Why didn’t I panic?
“Olivia Preston,” I remembered hearing the husky voice say with invisible lips, “thank you. You’ve done well.”
Unfortunately, it’s simple to know who I am. I’m the daughter of James Preston, the wealthiest man in New Orleans.
Was Dylan taken because of this? Because of where I come from? Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #16 — Strange Things Are Happening Emily walked towards the sound of the music. Her friend, Mel, and she were on their way home from school when they first heard it, and they had followed it all the way until they came to the source: Shay Manor. Shay Manor had been abandoned for so long that no one could even remember when someone had lived in it last or why they left. The only people who went in the supposedly haunted mansion now were teenagers looking for a scare on the weekends. “Emily! What the—” Mel started, coming up behind Emily. “Shh!” Emily hissed. “Do you hear that?” Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #17 — Under the Bed I folded my arms and did the infamous mom stare in front of my little sister.
“Jessie, I thought you were old enough not to believe in this stuff anymore,” I said, shaking my head. “I am a big girl,” my five-year-old sister whined. “But this time it’s different, something is under my bed!” “Look it’s one thing that I missed the biggest Halloween party ever to take you trick or treating, but it’s not fair I have to do this.” For a moment, just from the pleading in her tiny blue eyes, I believed her. I shook it off and let out a deep sigh. “Fine, Kylie, I’ll go look. But just one time. Ryan is coming over in ten minutes and we’re watching a movie.” She stood at the bottom of the stairs, biting her thumbnail nervously as I entered her room. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

*Reminder: If you are interested in the COMMENT CONTEST, remember to include your email address with your comment for an extra entry! Please read full entry rules here.

If you vote include"I VOTED" in your comment for an extra entry in the comment contest!

Love Story by Janenifer Echols
Publisher: Pocket (July 19th, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Paperback: 256 pages
Source: Author (Thank You!)
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Erin Blackwell is headed to college in New York City to study creative writing and earn a living as a romance novelist. Her grandmother has other plans: she approves of the college, but she wants Erin to major in business and then come back home to Kentucky to run the family’s famous racehorse farm. There is no way Erin will agree. Studying in New York and writing her way into a career is her escape from the farm and the family tragedy that happened there. So Erin’s grandmother decides Erin really will live life as a starving artist. She takes Erin’s future job running the farm, her inheritance, even her college tuition, and gives them all to Hunter Allen.

Hunter has lived on the farm for years. He’s Erin’s age, he’s the stable boy, and he’s the romantic dream of every girl in her high school. But he was involved in the family tragedy. Erin has always given him a wide berth. And he’s a slick opportunist. She’s furious that he fooled her grandmother into giving him Erin’s birthright and sending him to Erin’s college.

At least she’s free of him in her creative writing class. So she pens a story that has haunted her lately, in which the horse farm heiress at the very first Kentucky Derby starts a forbidden affair with the lowly stable boy. Unfortunately for her, the day she’s sharing this story with her New York classmates, Hunter walks in. He’s switching to her class. And after reading about himself in Erin’s story, he writes his own sexy assignments that lure Erin into dangerous fantasies about what could have been between them, and what might be.
Review: If there is anything I've learned about Janenifer Echols, it's that she has some of the most unique book ideas ever! Janenifer also knows how to tap into the minds of teenagers. Love Story involves Erin and Hunter. Erin is a a farm girl from Kentucky and Hunter was her stable boy. Against her grandmothers wishes, she is going to New York to study English and writing instead of business so she could take over the farm. Erin's grandmother then decides to show her the difficulty of living without the money from the farm so she takes it all away. Erin is then left on her own to make money and somehow do well in college.

To make things worse for Erin, her grandmother sends Hunter to the same college to study in business and get prepped to take over the farm in Erin's place. While in her creative writing class, Erin writes a story that involves a young girl and her stable boy. The story seems to have some strong similarities to real life for her and Hunter. But Erin knows that no one in the class knows about her true-life. Then Hunter surprises her by joining the class and there is no way to stop him from reading Erin's historical romance.

Love Story jumps from current time into the stories Erin and Hunter create while in class. We have a chance to read their writings and see what underlying feelings may be there between the characters. It was a great way to explore their relationship. The downside was that the jumping back and forth created some confusion for me. Sometimes I wanted more time with the characters and not so much of their writings.

No matter how much Erin fought her feelings for Hunter, or how much she tried to avoid him, he was always right there. Erin was so determined to succeed and follow her dreams. It was refreshing to see that in a YA character. And, of course, Janenifer Echols is a pro at creating swoon-worthy male characters so Hunter was nothing short of amazing!

Although I have enjoyed Janenifer's other books a little more than this one, Love Story is so unique and captivating that you can't put it down! My fan-girlness for her continues and always will!

Find Janenifer Echols Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Purchase Love Story
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

It is now time for the 2nd round of voting! Here are the top 8 stories picked from round 1!

We are changing the voting for this round. We had an instance of false voting during the last round. Someone used a variety of email addresses, including ones from authors, to cast votes. We became suspicious and decided to verify these votes. We contacted the authors and they said that they did NOT vote, so that person has been disqualified.
We are truly saddened by this instance of cheating. Lisa and I worked really hard to gather the books and swag for these giveaways and we will not tolerate cheating. It is not fair to us or the people who worked hard on these stories and covers. They deserve a fair chance. That is why we changed the voting for this round.

Now, voting MUST come through comments. We will not accept anonymous comments.

* The stories are in the order that we received them.

Voters:
PLEASE ONLY CAST YOUR VOTE ONCE!

• For round 2, I will be posting the story vote, and Lisa will post the cover vote.
• To vote for the COVERS- USE GOOGLE
• To vote, put your email address and the number of the story you like into the comment.
  
• Email addresses may be used to verify votes, only if needed. Hopefully we will not need to for this round.
  
• If you are participating in the comment contest, say"I'M VOTING!" in the comment and you will get an extra entry into the comment contest.
• Vote for your favorite!

• Feel free to post about the voting starting. Please encourage people to vote for their favorite.
• You can cast a vote for your own cover, but only once each round.

Rules:

• This is Round 2 of voting. It will end Friday, the 29th.
• 4 stories will win prizes!
• The winners will be announced on Halloween!
• Votes from Round 1 have been deleted.

Story #1 — Invisible Gotta find the exit. I just have to. I don't want to die I am too young. He told me that it wouldn't end like this that if I just give him what he needed then he would leave me and my family alone. I have been running for nearly three days and every time I think I am safe I see his shadow again. It all started back when I met the new kid in school. He was gorgeous nonetheless. Always seemed so perfect and mysterious. Apparently my judgment was correct except for the perfect part. As I grew closer to him the more I drew away from school, friends, and even worse my family. There seemed to be something pulling me deeper into his world, something that was turning me almost invisible to the world around me.
Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #2 — The Current-Day 1900's Spiderman: A Little Boy's Tale
A shaggy haired two year old boy with wide eyes watched the hall of his newly built home. Not only was his puppy barking at it but both pet cats were hissing as well. His mommy turned to the hall then back at the display in front of her calling their attention. The little boy dropped his multi-colored duplos and looked to his mommy, his eyes glistening with a look she never seen before, then pointed to the short hall between the living room and the playroom saying one word. “Man.”

The appearances of 'man' didn't stop that one quiet night. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #3 — Friendly Fire Fire. One word. One very short word. And yet, for Kaylee it was the most important word in the world. It was the last thing her mother ever said to her. As a child she had been hurt that her mother hadn’t spoken words of love and encouragement in the last moments of her life, it was only when she was older that she understood the true power behind that one word.

Fire. It brings warmth. It brings light. It brings destruction. And eventually it can bring life. But for Kaylee it brought wonder and mystery and a power so overwhelming that the mere sight of her would strike fear into complete strangers. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #4 — Blackbird Sing They say the beautiful song of the blackbird makes it a symbol of temptations. For the most part, I have been a fairly responsible adult during the course of my life. I live in control and in restraint; I have no weakness.

When I approach the enormous tree with the bare and scraggly branches, I see it is full of blackbirds. I should think something is not right. But with a sensible head resting atop my shoulders, omens never affected me. I could shatter a thousand mirrors and still live in good health and in good luck.

My phone shrills in my pocket. I do not want to pick it up. Instead, I gaze at the still blackbirds, with their graceful feathers and beady eyes. Nothing is wrong. Just a tree full of silly birds. I see them all the time. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #5 — Lifeless Love Her breath raced as she ran down the hill. Sweat glistened on her face in the light of the half-moon. Her pursuer was not far behind, his long arms flapping limply at his sides. She turned right and hid behind a trash can and prayed he would pass her by.

“Chloe,” He croaked. “Come out. You know I won’t hurt you. How could I hurt you? I love you.”

Silent tears slid down her face. How she wanted to believe those words. But she knew now that he was lost to her.

Footsteps were heard receding into the distance; he was gone, for now. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #6 — The Secret Ball Louisiana, 1862
I could hear the carriage roll on the damp stone path. The path where what had mattered most was silently taken from me. I saw men in white masks embellished with jewels and lined with intricate black lace. The men who took Dylan, my love.
Who were they? Why didn’t I panic?
“Olivia Preston,” I remembered hearing the husky voice say with invisible lips, “thank you. You’ve done well.”
Unfortunately, it’s simple to know who I am. I’m the daughter of James Preston, the wealthiest man in New Orleans.
Was Dylan taken because of this? Because of where I come from? Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #7 — Strange Things Are Happening Emily walked towards the sound of the music. Her friend, Mel, and she were on their way home from school when they first heard it, and they had followed it all the way until they came to the source: Shay Manor. Shay Manor had been abandoned for so long that no one could even remember when someone had lived in it last or why they left. The only people who went in the supposedly haunted mansion now were teenagers looking for a scare on the weekends. “Emily! What the—” Mel started, coming up behind Emily. “Shh!” Emily hissed. “Do you hear that?” Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

Story #8 — Under the Bed I folded my arms and did the infamous mom stare in front of my little sister.
“Jessie, I thought you were old enough not to believe in this stuff anymore,” I said, shaking my head. “I am a big girl,” my five-year-old sister whined. “But this time it’s different, something is under my bed!” “Look it’s one thing that I missed the biggest Halloween party ever to take you trick or treating, but it’s not fair I have to do this.” For a moment, just from the pleading in her tiny blue eyes, I believed her. I shook it off and let out a deep sigh. “Fine, Kylie, I’ll go look. But just one time. Ryan is coming over in ten minutes and we’re watching a movie.” She stood at the bottom of the stairs, biting her thumbnail nervously as I entered her room. Want to read more? USE GOOGLE

*Reminder: If you are interested in the COMMENT CONTEST, remember to include your email address and"I'M VOTING" with your comment for an extra entry! Please read full entry rules here.
To vote, include the number of your favorite cover and email address in your comment!

To vote for the COVERS- USE GOOGLE

Today is the second day of"Indie Reviews", a feature where I give short mini-reviews of all the Indie/N ew Adult titles I've read lately. I'll have 3 days of books that received a 4 star rating from me.

Because of Low by Abbi Glines
Add to Goodreads

This is book 2 in the series but I haven't read the first one. I really enjoyed this story. Low was a wonderful character and I really felt bad for her. I loved her best friend Cage (hot!) and Cage's roommate Marcus. It was nice that these books all contain the same group of characters. I didn't feel lost even though I hadn't read the first story. I hope to read more from this series soon.
There were times when I was frustrated by some lack of communication going on, but overall it was a really enjoyable read.

This series was picked up for publication, I believe, so it has a new cover now.

Charade by Nyrae Dawn Add to Goodreads
This was an interesting story because the main character, Cheyenne, pays the guy, Colt, to be her boyfriend for a while. Cheyenne wants to get back at her ex and Colt just wants to be able to take care of the bills since his mother is sick. I enjoyed Colt the most in this story. No, he wasn't perfect, but he tried to do everything for his mother. He just didn't plan on falling for Cheyenne. Nothing really surprised me with this book but nevertheless, I enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing where the journey took them.

Clash by Nicole Williams Add to Goodreads
This is another title that has a new cover because it was picked up for publication. This is book 2 but I skipped book 1. I tried a sample of the first title but it just didn't grab me. I ended up trying this one out and loving it. Jude and Lucy were a great, typically, teen couple. A few parts were frustrating because of miscommunication between the two but I still enjoyed following their romance. They are dealing with a long-distance relationship now and there is a bit of adjustment going on. I do hope to read the third book in the series soon.

The Perfect Game by J. Sterling Add to Goodreads
Loved, loved, loved the first part of this book. Cassie and Jack were amazing and had such a cute story. Both characters were likable and I enjoyed the sports angle the story had. This book really had a good college vibe. Then, near the end, Jack makes a hugely, stupid decision and it was just … odd. I didn't believe he would do something like that without much thought. Some parts after that were kind of predictable but it just really took a wrong turn for me. Prepare to be angry at these characters if you read this. Overall, I'm glad I read it and truly enjoyed the first half of the book beyond belief! Book 2, The Game Changer, comes out soon and I do plan to read it.

Down to You by M. Leighton Add to Goodreads
This is another title that has been picked up. Notice a trend here? Olivia was a nice character. She is far from perfect but I enjoyed her. Then we meet Cash and Nash. Cash is the bad boy, Nash is the good guy. She knows which one she should want to be with but that isn't the case. I will say that this book throws you quite a curveball. I didn't expect that twist. On the other hand, there were still a few things that just didn't make sense to me. Like, how do you end up in bed with a guy and you're not sure which twin it is? Hmm. Up to Me is the next book in this series. I'm honestly not sure if I will read it. I don't have a strong pull to do so (unlike some other series I read) so who knows. Either way, this one is a fun story with a crazy twist and I know a ton of people who really loved it.

V is for Virgin by Kelly Oram Add to Goodreads
This is such a funny story. Val"V" is a virgin who has dis aster strike as the entire school (and beyon d) start s giving her a hard time for her choice to wait till marriage. Instead of hiding away, she starts a campaign to supp ort her cause and she's pretty surprised by how many people end up helping her with it. Then, we throw in a rocker bad boy, Kyle, who is hellbent to destroy her plan and it all creates a wonderful ly, fan tastic read. The interactions be tween V and Kyle were amazing. I loved how spunky V was and how she never backed down f rom Ky le. It was a little rushed at the end, I wanted more! But regardless, I'd definitely reco mmend this one. Great story with terrific characters.

Bad Rep by A. Meredith Walters Add to Goodreads
Another great New Adult read. It may be based on the traditional set up we've seen 100 times — girl meets bad boy, falls for him, issues ar ise, blah blah. but it was well written and enjoyable. This story does involve some *gasp* cheating… which is kind of a turn off for me but it didn't ruin Jordan's ch aracter. He wa s a bit more"nice" than I expected from the cover and summary th ough. I didn't really get the bad boy vibe as much as we see in other stories. Maysie was what I'd vie w as the traditional college co-ed, trying to survive school, make money, and have some fun. This may not be one that sticks out to me a s a f avorite but I'm still glad I took the time to read it.

Rock the Heart by Michelle A. Valentine Add to Goodreads Who doesn't love rockers?? This is one of my all-time favorite rocker books. Lane broke up with Noel 4 years ago and, through her job, they end up reunit ing. Eventually, she has to go on the road with him and she learns that even though Noel has changed, he still wants only her. I loved this co uple. The whole"rock star" vibe is very much in this story as well. I am a sucker for books where we get to go on tour with the characters. HOT. T here were times where I was frustrated with the characters but all-in-all, I'd definitely continue with this s eries and see what happens to Noel's band m ates.

Foolish Games by Leah Spiegel Add to G oodreads This was a cute story about some friends following around a bad (yes, more ba nd guys) but it takes a huge twist. Joie is pulled into a plot to help the bands reputation and it ends up risking her life. Hawkins, the love interest, was wond erful. Joie and Haw k ins have a lot of chemistry together but they also were never afraid to speak their minds. T his book also involves a stalker and I loved the whole mystery of it. I thought it was very well-written even though there were times where I just wanted them to tell the frea kin' cop s! I do plan to read the next books in this series and I love that they are based on the same characters. I really want to see wh ere they end up.

ALL OF THESE BOOKS RECEIVED A RATING OF

1. What are the biggest differences now that you are promoting the second book, Purpose, from when you were promoting Promise?
Releasing Promise was one of the most exciting times of my life because it was my debut. My first in everything. That also made it a lot more stressful, because I was scared to death people would hate it. Fortunately, they didn’t. J And now they’re looking forward to Purpose. Combine that with my own feeling that Purpose is a better story and I’m not quite as worried about that part of the equation. Of course, I’m still anxious – maybe it’s not what readers are expecting, maybe the change in Alexis turns them off, maybe it takes a direction fans don’t like, etc. – but this is the book I started out writing, the one that grabbed my heart and soul. So whether people like it or not, I personally feel a lot better about it than I did Promise.

2. I do know that you have had a few major events and awards since you were last on here, would you like to share some of those?
Hehe Yes, Promise has exceeded my expectations in the big world. It won the 1^st Place Fantasy (Published) Royal Palm Literary Award for the Florida Writers Association. That is a huge honor that I don’t take lightly. It’s also received some great reviews, including a “highly recommended” by the prestigious Midwest Book Review. MBR may not mean a lot to the average reader, but it has a strong influence on booksellers and librarians. It’s a feather in the industry cap. Promise is also (finally!) available at all major and indie retailers (though you may have to request it), including for international delivery through The Book Depository. I’ve also done some appearances, like at the Miami Book Fair International, and have some signings and presentations coming up in January.

3. Can you share with us some of what we can expect for the continuation of this story?
In Promise, Alexis starts out as a young woman just barely getting started in this world she had no idea existed. Purpose really initiates her into the world, giving her (and the reader) a taste of what’s to come. She has many challenges ahead of her as she fulfills her destiny of being the fierce protector of human souls and, eventually, taking her leadership role of the Angels’ army on earth. She transforms from vulnerable, pretty naïve and nearly human in the first book to kickass warrior in the books to come. The love story of Promise evolves into stories about the various forms of love we all experience, from love of our soul-mates to our children to complete strangers and people we never thought we could love.

4. Will any other books be featuring these characters?
The rest of this part of the series – 5 or 6 books – is Alexis’s story, so, yeah, there’s a lot more coming. Some of the major-minor characters have been sharing more of their stories with me, too. I don’t know if they’ll be full series or even books, but at least some short stories or novellas.

5. Do you have any other books in the works? We NEED more from you!: )
I’ve started book three, but it’s been back-burnered for quite a while, so I don’t know where I’m really at with it. I’m really looking forward to getting back to it, however, I’m also excited to work on some of these other stories. So many ideas, so little time…

6. What is the main thing you have learned from the entire process of getting a book out to the public?
Patience. That goes for any writer, regardless of where you are in the process. You need patience to produce the best story possible; patience in seeking publication; patience with the publishing process; and patience on the other side, as well. The word has been spreading, but it takes time to build buzz and momentum. Just because someone wants to read a book doesn’t mean they go out and buy it right away. Or even if they do, they don’t necessarily read it right away. I’m the same way. My TBR pile is a mile high. And I know most readers are that way. So we just have to have patience while the snowball grows.

7. Did you have to take out any scenes that you wish you could have kept in the story? What were the biggest changes in the story from the time you first wrote it, to the finished version?
Promise and Purpose started out as one story. Now, ending up as two books, they are, in some ways, quite a bit different than when I wrote that first draft. There are many scenes that didn’t make it and many new ones that have been added. I’m happy with the final results, but there were some sweet scenes originally in Promise with Alexis and her mother Sophia and others with Alexis and Tristan that just didn’t do enough to move the story along so they had to be cut. Probably the biggest change from that very first draft, however… something I didn’t see at first while focused on just this one book… something that has added a whole new twist to the entire series… originally, Dorian wasn’t born alone.

8. You've had quite a roll in the promoting of Promise and Purpose and you have done a fabulous job! Is that part more stressful than the writing?
Marketing is my background and I mostly enjoy it, but writing is my passion. The most stressful part, really, is not having enough time to do everything.

9. Do you have any recent events planned that you would like to share?
Of course, there’s the virtual release party for Purpose going until 12/18. After the holidays, I’ll be doing some local signings and by spring, I should be expanding the tour into other states, including Virginia, Arizona and Minnesota.

10. Can you give us a little excerpt from Purpose?

A shadow shifted in the corner. Two small, red lights glowed from about two-thirds up the wall. I realized they were eyes. It can’t really be Daemoni—can it? We hadn’t been bothered for over seven years. Not a single visit or even a threat. Nothing at all. They had what they wanted.
“Don’t you know?”
The shadow moved forward, just enough for the light from my clock to slightly illuminate a face—pale, bluish-white in the clock’s glare, glowing eyes and… fangs. The light reflected off his glimmering teeth, bared in an evil grin, if that’s what you could call it, and I knew for sure those were fangs. And I knew immediately what he was. From what I could see, he favored some of my characters, as if he’d stepped out of the pages of the books I wrote.
Such a strange feeling—to feel as though I’d awakened in my usual way but know I was dreaming again. I had to be. Monsters were real, but vampires were not.
“C-Claudius?” My voice shook. I knew this dream was about to become a terrible nightmare. With his dark hair floating around the sides of his face, this visitor looked similar to my Claudius, leader of the evilest vampire nest in my make-believe world.
“Ha!” the shadow barked. “So you do see the resemblance.”

Purpose by Kristie Cook Publisher: Ang'dora Productions (December 15th, 2010) Reading Level: 17 and up Paperback: 377 pages Series: Soul Savers, book #2 Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she’ll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she’s been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she’s forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself… but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose?

Don't forget to check out the Re-Cover contest of Promise and Purpose. Entries must be in 12/18.

Find Kristie Cook Kristie Cook / Promise / Goodreads
Purchase Signed Copies of Purpose

Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe
Omnific Publishing (January 10th, 2012)
Paperback: 159 pages
Reading Level: Young Adult
Source: Author/Publisher
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
It’s the year 2040, and sixteen-year-old Dez Harkly is one of the last of her kind—part of a nearly extinct race of shape-shifters descended from guardians to the Egyptian pharaohs. Her home and her secret are threatened when the Council lowers the barrier, allowing the enemy race to enter the Shythe haven.

As the Narcolym airships approach, Dez and her friends rebel against their Council and secretly train for battle. Not only is Dez wary of war and her growing affection for her best friend Jace, but she fears the change her birthday will bring. When Dez’s newfound power rockets out of control, it’s a Narcolym who could change her fate… if she can trust him.

Dez’s guarded world crumbles when she discovers why the Narcos have really come to Haven Falls, and she's forced to choose between the race who raised her and the enemy she's feared her whole life.
Review: I must say that I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book. I knew I loved Trisha's writing from what I read in her short story Unveiled, but this was my first time reading a steampunk novel. But as soon as I started reading, all my worries flew away. Destiny's Fire grabbed me on page 1. Literally, and if you've read the book, you know why! Immediately in the story we meet Dez and the triplets — Jace, Lana, and Nick. We learn about their world in 2040 where the Narcolym are coming to start mingling with the Shythe. No one really likes this idea, especially Jace. Dez and the triplets train for a battle they feel will be inevitable.

As I mentioned, steampunk is new to me and I thought I would be completely confused by the terms. I should have factored in Trisha's fabulousness. She made it exciting! She completely described this foreign world to me in a way that helped me truly visualize it. It all made sense!

Dez was incredible. She was such a strong character and she really cared about her friends. This is all tested when Reese, a Narcolym, pushes his way into the picture. Jace and Reese do not get along, at all! Due to all of this conflict, Jace finally stars showing his feelings for Dez and she tries to see what is stronger, her feelings for her best friend or her best friend's new enemy. Drama! Reese is more than he seems though, and he shows Dez a part of her past that she didn't know existed.

Jace or Reese, Jace or Reese. It's like picking cake or ice cream. Trisha created the type of love triangle I adore. I could see the pull for each guy and they both did have a downside. No one was perfect and between Jace's temper and Reese's secrets, I could see the conflict Dez had between them.

The plot and action Trisha created in this story was also an unexpected turn. There was a great back-story, a lot of manipulation, and a powerful Council that both races had to deal with. I felt like I was thrown headfirst into this intense battle and I loved every minute of it! Dealing with all the craziness really helped Dez grow as a person. It was as if she was 3 years older by the end of the book.

I was very satisfied with how everything wrapped up but I gotta have book 2 soon!! Who can resist reading more of a wonderful story with a sizzling romantic love triangle? Not me!

Destiny's Fire gave me a taste of something new and I'm hooked! I can't wait to read more from Trisha Wolfe and see where she takes these characters next.

Recommended: Paranormal/steampunk readers or anyone who wants a taste of steampunk. Also, anyone who just loves a lot of drama, action, and hotness.

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1. What book are you currently working on?

I’m working on a few books at the moment – putting the final bits of the third book in my SKINNED series, Skin of My Teeth together, as well as fleshing out the first in my steampunk ghosthunter series, STRANGEWAYS. And, well, yeah, there are other projects too, short stories, other manuscripts, and my screenwriting projects.

Seems like a lot to balance, right? It is, but I thrive on the challenge and find it helpful to have multiple projects to juggle. There’s never a dull moment. I’ve started to divide up days of the week by project in order to devote a few full days on each story.

2. What can you share with us about Killer’s Instinct?

Ah, there’s another one! Killer’s Instinct is a killer monster-hunter tale that I’m co-writing with Dawn Dalton and it is contracted with Leap Books (www.leapbks.com) for a late 2013 or early 2014 launch. I’m keen about this project as the book will be released in six, e-serial episodes, released every two months for one year – the episodes will be compiled into a paperback at that time. Kind of an interesting experiment in publishing.

The book revolves around four main characters, young recruits at a secret monster-hunting academy who have to get over their mutual antagonism and personal demons if they want to survive basic training. Emphasis is on one particular character, Hope, the only girl in the newly formed unit.

Discover the characters by visiting our blog: http://mwmnovels.blogspot.ca/

Here’s the blurb:

Where there is NO life – there’s Hope.

Hope has always been a bit of a freak. But when her mother crawls from her grave and her undead corpse goes MIA, Hope's last thread of normal snaps with a vengeance.

Enrolling in a militia-style school for monster slayers seems the only course of action. And the best bet at tracking her mother down.

But does Hope have a true killer's instinct? If she finds her mother, will she have the guts to do what must be done?

3. Is it more difficult to write a book or write a story for an anthology?

While books take longer to physically write – more words, more depth – short stories are an art form unto themselves. I got my start in fiction by writing flash fiction, or short, short stories – complete tales with a beginning, middle, and end, but under 1000 words, so I’ve been enamored with the format for ages.

Still not sure I’m any damn good though. With a novel, you have time to play, to take the reader on asides (though they have to drive the story forward!) – in short stories you have to lay it all out there. Now. And make every word count.

Hmmm… I’m not sure I’m answering the question… lol… I guess I’d have to say they are both difficult, but that’s part of the fun of writing – challenging yourself to improve with every turn of phrase.
4. If you were going out for Halloween this year, what would be your costume?

My standby costume when I was a kid was a nurse. Easy peasy, since I’d just borrow one of my mom’s old nursing uniforms – you know, the kind from the sixties with the hat, and cape, and everything. Now I’d probably update it with a bit of zombie makeup. Yeah, a sixties zombie nurse. That’s it!

Second Skin by Judith Graves Publisher: Leap Books (October 31st, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback Series: Skinned #2
With FIENDS like Eryn…

Monsters. Bloodsuckers. The evil. The damned. Eryn McCain knows they exist— she’s been hunting them since she was a child. At sixteen, she’s ready to take on all comers. Being a shapeshifter gives her an advantage when it comes to her unusual part-time job. The hours suck and the pay is, well, non-existent, but bonuses like inhuman strength and night vision make tracking scary beasties a dream come true. Especially in a town like Redgrave.

When an ancient demon targets Redgrave High, Eryn and her crew of hunters must face their innermost fears to prevent the Harvest Moon Dance from becoming one serious Monster Mash. Loyalties are tested and temptations abound. With questions ever brewing, can Eryn share a future with the brooding, noble, human Alec—the hunter after her heart? Or will she succumb to her enemy’s son, Wade, a seductive predator as bloodthirsty as she is?

What happens when you’re both the beauty and the beast?

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HOW THE TOUR WORKS Each day of The Crossroads Blog Tour, a new research question will be revealed on The Crossroad Blog Tour main page: http://judithgraves.com/events/the-crossroads-tour/crossroads-2012/ and each day the answer to that question will be found within one of the different blog posts by Crossroads Tour authors. Your job is to get the question, read the blog posts, and collect all answers by the end of the tour.
Answers are to be emailed to judithgraves @ ymail dot com by October 28th at MIDNIGHT. Winner of the grand prize will be announced on OCTOBER 31st – HALLOWEEN.
The GRAND PRIZE you’re vying for? A brand new KINDLE, preloaded with a title from each of the participating Crossroads Blog Tour Authors. That’s right folks, a free KINDLE and 13 free EBOOKS!

This week I've been giving you some mini-reviews from Indie/New Adult books that have been released over the past year or so. I'd read a ton of them so it's easier to review a few at once. Monday had the books that got a 5 star review from me and yesterday featured the 4 star books. Today is another batch of 4 star books. Hopefully you will find a few you'd like to add to your list.

Fallen Crest High by Tijan
Add to Goodreads

As far as new adult authors go, Tijan is not one that pops up often. I happened to find this book while browsing one day and was so glad that I did. This is really one of those books where the characters stay with you. You may not love every aspect of the story, but you can't help but keep reading till it's finished. Mason and Logan (the bothers) were great in their own ways and Sam has the misfortune of living with them after her mom decided to marry their dad. This book is pretty complicated with all the plots, sub-plots, and characters but I definitely want to see what happens in the new book.

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover Add to Goodreads
This one is easy to spoil because there is a lot going on. Tons of tragedy! When Sky meets Dean she has no idea of their past. Sky has been through more than many people could imagine. It was sad to see how broken she was but I was glad that Dean could be there for her. At times the drama seemed a bit too much but it was still a well written story with a lot of great moments between the characters. Dean was my favorite. You can't help but love him and hope that these characters can somehow find happiness through all the heartbreak. Not sure when/if I'll read the next one but so many people loved this one.

Play With Me by Piper Shelly Add to Goodreads
You know how sometimes you just want a light, sweet book to read? This one is perfect for those times! This was one of the cutest romances ever. Liza is a cutie! Poor girl has been in love with her best friend Tony forever and he comes back from soccer camp in love with another *sigh*. So, she has a plan to become sporty herself in hopes he will notice her. What she doesn't plan for is the soccer captain, Ryan, to start paying attention to her. They have so many of those cute moments that have you saying"awww." The ONLY complaint I had about this story was that it was just too short! I wanted more! Of course, there is now a version in Ryan's POV but still… I wish this one would have been a bit longer. But, I totally recommend it.

If You Stay by Courtney Cole Add to Goodreads
Some books say they have bad boys but this one is really bad. Pax is a jerk, 100%! He has money to burn but is rude, disrespectful, and has a whole slew of drug issues. Not the easiest character to like but I liked that there was no doubting his personality. Everyone knew immediately what type of guy he was. Mila is a sweetheart who can't help but try to help Pax. Even though she is told to forget about ever changing him, she can't help but have hope that he will get better. It took a while for their sparks to really heat up but I liked seeing Pax change. Much is the story is from his POV and it was easy to see how Mila got under his skin. Courtney Cole is a great author and I look forward to reading more from her.

Someone to Love by Addison Moore Add to Goodreads
This is a light story and a nice college-age romance but there was something lacking. Maybe it was depth for the character? Not sure. But, in this book, Kendall wants to be a player and she goes to the king of all players, Cruise, for help. She says she's determined to learn how to play guys. The overall story was fun to read but I'm not sure I fully bought the whole"wanting to be a player" thing. I think that with more work this book could have hit it out of the park but for something light and fluffy, it's a pretty good read. I've seen other people with some mixed feelings about this title.

Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A Tucker Add to Goodreads
This is a very intense story. Kacey has had a really hard life and all she wants to do is find safety and take care of her little sister. They move into a rundown apartment and she starts working to try to take care of the bills. Then Trent moves next door. Kacey tries to brush off her feelings for him but they are drawn to each other. I really enjoyed this book and all the side characters/plots too. It's depressing at times but I couldn't stop reading. The overall idea is a bit predictable but I still found myself rooting for the characters and wanting to find out what will happen next. I will probably check out the next book in the series because it focuses on Kacey's sister.

After Tuesday by Renee Ericson Add to Goodreads
This book is about Ruby, a young girl dealing with an alcoholic father. I liked this book for a lot of reasons. One big reason is that her dad, although sick, wasn't a complete jerk. He seemed like he wanted to be a good dad and that's something rarely seen in YA books. Then Ruby gets to know Brent, a guy from school, and she's forced to balance her real life with that of a normal teenager. She tries to hide her issues at home but that isn't easy. Soon both collide and she has to rely on someone else. Sometimes I just wished she would have been honest with Brent early on instead of hiding things. But I did like the way the author portrayed the relationship and the issues Ruby had with her dad. He wasn't just thrown to the side like some novels do.

Breathe Into Me by Amanda Stone Add to Goodreads
This was another complex story and in the end I was scratching my head a bit. Kelsey had some really craptastic luck. She had a horrible tragedy 6 years before she heads to college and all she wants is to escape it. She has her best friend Jessi, who I loved, and soon she meets bad-boy Kane. But Kane isn't really bad. He was actually much nicer than I expected. Sometimes I wanted to shake Kelsey for being so darn trusting of guys-who-shall-remain-nameless, especially after what she had been through. Plus, I wasn't happy with the fact she judged Kane so quickly when something happened with him. I don't want to spoil anything but I do think this is definitely worth the read. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.

Picture Perfect by Alessandra Thomas Add to Goodreads
It's pretty hard to find a good story that doesn't involve a girl who is a perfect size 4. Cat used to be a model but now she can't fit into anything in her closet. She had an accident and, after sitting for nearly a year, she's going back to school as a size 12. One thing I really liked about this story is that all of Cat's friends didn't shun her because of her size. It's not like it's the worst thing in the world so it sucks when books act like the character can't have friends if she's beyond a size 10. Cat did have friends and, really, she is the biggest issue blocking her own happiness. When Nate steps in Cat finally starts to see herself as more than a size. He helps her break down her walls and be happy again. Sometimes I just wanted her to get over things but I tried to understand where she was coming from. This book was really enjoyable and had a very unique plot (and twist).

Unbroken by Melody Grace Add to Goodreads
This book has one of my all-time favorite lines ever…
"Mom always told me there are two kinds of love in this world: the steady breeze, and the hurricane. Emerson Ray was my hurricane… "
Love it! This book is great for a summer read. Juliet is forced to go back to her summer beach home for a while and she runs into her old flame Emerson. I enjoyed this story but nothing really stood out to me as memorable. There is some cheating, which I hate, but it didn't ruin the book for me. The characters definitely have chemistry and there are several hot moments to enjoy.
ALL OF THESE BOOKS WERE RATED

In His Eyes Anthology by Various Authors
Format: ebook (February 14th, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Source: Authors
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Available NOW, just in time for Valentines Day, The Indelibles bring you a one-of-a-kind young adult anthology! Sixteen original short stories, all from the point of view of our favorite male characters — some are old flames from our novels and some were dreamed up especially for this anthology.

Let these imminently crushable, swoon-worthy guys show you what romance looks like – in his eyes.

The contributors to IN HIS EYES include award winners, frequent “Top 100” placers, and hot 2011 debut authors.

Surprise, Surprise by Stacey Wallace Benefiel, author of Glimpse: Half the women in Melody's family can see the future, which makes it nearly impossible for Raleigh to surprise her. What's a guy to do for Valentine's Day when his girlfriend is always one step ahead of him?

First Kiss or First Kill? by C.K. Bryant, author of Bound: Love isn't always rainbows and kittens, sometimes it can be downright deadly. (A deleted chapter from Bound.)

Shattered by Ali Cross, author of Become: James and Desi use each other in an effort to cling to the darkness in each of them, but in the end they discover that love changes you. (A chapter of Become from James’ POV.)

Before by Jessie Harrell, author of Destined: When a younger Eros is exiled to a land that doesn't believe in the Greek gods, he finds the first love of his immortal life. Read Eros' first person account of his romance, and heartbreak, in the time before he met Psyche.

The Qualm Before the Storm by Karen Amanda Hooper, author of Tangled Tides. Yara Jones doesn’t want to be a mermaid. Treygan doesn’t want to be the monster who turns her. You can’t always get what you want. (A short prequel to Tangled Tides.)

Unspeakable by S.R. Johannes, author of Untraceable: When Mo sees a strange girl in the woods, he follows her. He soon realizes they are both in a dangerous position and might not get out alive.

In the Beginning by Katie Klein, author of Cross My Heart: Seth is falling hard for Genesis Green, but the guardian angel is determined not to interfere, until an accident changes the course of their lives forever. (A short prequel to The Guardian.)

A Chance Encounter by Cheri Lasota, author of Artemis Rising: Finnian's eyes hide a terrible secret. But a girl on the train home, the girl in tears with a secret of her own… She sees right through him. A scene from the upcoming novel, Echoes in the Glass.

Family Bonds by Heather McCorkle, author of The Secret of Spruce Knoll: A Halloween party filled with teens who can channel energy and use it to kill, what could go wrong? For Spruce Knoll fans who are dying to read more about Fane.

Getting Closer by Lisa Nowak, author of Running Wide Open: Megan is smart, hot, and an upperclassman—in other words, way out of Cody’s league. So why did she choose him? (An excerpt of Getting Sideways.)

Precalculus by Cory Putman Oakes, author of The Veil: a re-telling of the fateful class period that changed Addison Russell’s life, from Luc’s point of view (a.k.a. Chapter 2 of The Veil from Luc’s perspective)

The Almost Assassin by Laura Pauling, author of A Spy Like Me, releasing Spring 2012: Malcolm tries his hand at the family business but his conscience and a beautiful"spy" may be his downfall.

Mind Games by Susan Kaye Quinn, author of Open Minds: Raf wants to take Kira—the only girl in school who doesn’t read minds—to the mindware Games, but his friends have other plans. (A short prequel to Open Minds.)

By The Firelight by Elle Strauss, author of Clockwise: When Nate McKenzie asks an unpopular girl to dance on a dare, he's in for the time of his life.

A Very Alien Valentine’s Day by Magan Vernon, author of How To Date An Alien: After surviving confinement and an intergalactic war for his human half, Alex, now he has to live through the biggest challenge of them all: Valentine's Day.

Aligned by RaShelle Workman, author of Exiled: A half-Eternal boy and an Eternal girl must free millions of tortured souls from a creature whose been feasting on their pain and suffering.
Review: I love a good anthology. It's a nice break from novel-length stories and often it gives us a glimpse into stories we may not have read in the past. That was exactly what this book was. It was a wonderful book full of cute love stories and perfect for a Valentine's day read.

One of the things i really loved about this anthology is that we get a little explanation of who we will meet before each story. These are often connected to other stories already available by the author. Links are listed as well so it's easy to click on it and go directly to the book page. I found myself doing that often. I would read one of the stories and go back to add the author's book to my list. I was worried I might be confused jumping into different stories that take place in contrasting worlds but that wasn't the case at all. Each story was so amazingly written.

Since these are short stories I won't go into too much detail but I will say that they bring so much emotion in a small package. For example, during the 2nd story First Kiss or First Kill I was cracking up through most of it.

Most people love a good male POV as well so if you are a fan of those, you gotta check this out. It was so adorable to see how these guys felt about love and romance.

In His Eyes was such a cute, enjoyable read. I was happy to get the chance to sample the writings of each author and have added many more titles to my to-read shelf now!

Recommended: Anthology fans. People looking for male POVs, short stories, and new books to read and would like to check out some new authors.

The Indelibles Website

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The Mayfair Moon by J.A. Redmerski
Published: February 6th, 2012
Reading Level: Young Adult
Paperback: 352 pages
Series: The Darkwoods Trilogy, #1
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Summary:
After a nightmarish encounter with a werewolf, seventeen-year-old Adria Dawson loses her sister, but gains the love of a mysterious young man and his legendary family.

Strange and tragic things begin to happen in the small town of Hallowell, Maine: residents come down with an unexplainable ‘illness’ and some disappear. In the midst of everything, Isaac Mayfair is adamant about keeping Adria safe, even from her sister whom he has warned her to stay away from.

As unspeakable secrets unfold all around Adria, impossible choices become hers to bear. Ultimately, no matter what path she takes, her life and the lives of those she loves will be in peril. As she learns about the werewolf world she also learns why her place in it will change the destinies of many.

Review:

Adria and her sister haven't had an easy life. The end up in Maine and have a werewolf encounter but at the time they have no idea that's what it is. Some people in the town have been sick or disappeared and soon Adria's sister starts acting strange and hanging out with some odd people.

In comes Isaac and his family. Isaac is a good guy who really wants to keep Adria safe. Him and his family introduce her to a world she never imagined existed and now she finds herself in danger at ever turn.

I enjoyed Adria as a character. She had every excuse to be a complete biotch but she wasn't. She remained a good person and cared for her sister even though she refused to listen to her.

Issac wasn't the only person Adria meets in this story. He has a whole slew of"family" she is faced with; some good, some bad. These characters really help build a solid base for this story. I enjoyed getting to know them all and seeing what happened to them as the story progressed.

This story has a complex plot so there are many questions remaining after book 1. The werewolf world is something we just begin to understand through Adria's POV. I highly enjoyed this story!

Kindred by J.A. Redmerski
Published: July 20th, 2012
Reading Level: New Adult
Paperback: 348 pages
Series: The Darkwoods Trilogy, #2
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Summary:
Isaac Mayfair is hiding a dark secret. And just when Adria Dawson thinks the worst of her life among the werewolf world is over, she learns the secret that can rip her and Isaac’s love apart. Adria must come to terms with what the truth means for her. What it means for her life and how much time she has left to live it. She must choose between two different fates, neither of which can offer life as a certainty.
As if Isaac’s betrayal isn’t enough, Adria learns that there are things out there older and more powerful than werewolves could ever be. An archaic entity known only to few as the Praverian, unlike anything Adria has ever known or heard of.
As Adria struggles with her own fateful dilemmas, she must also try to find out why the Praverian is so interested in her and do everything in her power to stay out of its way.

Review:

7 months after the battle, Adria is experiencing some strange symptoms that could be linked to a Blood Bond (something we learn about during the first book). These symptoms make her feel like she is losing her mind and it really takes a toll on her.

I felt that this book explores the werewolf culture a bit more. Although much of it is focused on Adria's situation, we hear a lot about the rival packs, alpha fights, and ancient creatures more powerful than all of them.

As with The Mayfair Moon, the minor characters are just as wonderful. Their roles grow in this story and friendships build and change. Adria's sister is sort of missing from this story but I have a feeling she will return. Also, some parts were a little more difficult to follow and some places just didn't grab me as much as the first book did. Nevertheless, this continues to be a very enjoyable paranormal series and I'm looking forward to reading the final installment.

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As the first Author Interview of the New Year, I'd like to welcome Barbara Fifield, author of "Lucifer Rising."

Tell us a little bit about you. Who is Barbara Fifield?

I am an Army Brat and lived in Germany and Japan as a child. I’ve been writing since I was 11 and won the best short story contest in sixth grade. I had to read my story in front of a class of 45 students (this was the 50’s during the Baby Boom). They loved my story so much they had me read it three times, even though there were other students who had to read theirs. I’ve been writing ever since and majored in journalism in college. I continued to write stories, poems, and plays. One of my poems about dancing was selected by a music company to be made into a song, but I never followed up on it. When I was 18, I wrote my first novel, "The Early Autumn," a teen love story. It was too long and needed editing. A publisher told me to throw it away and write another book. I wrote another one in my 30’s, called "Only Time Will Tell," a novel loosely based on my first marriage which was crumbling at the time. I kept parts of it which I plan to use in my next novel and tossed the rest away, after sending it out to only one literary agent and getting rejected. At this time, I had also returned to college to finish up my journalism degree which had been delayed due to the births of my two children. After writing on newspapers for several years and not making much money, I went back to school and received a Master’s Degree in Social Work as there were a lot of jobs in that field during the 1980’s. I wrote another novel called "Letting Go," where the main character, Marjorie, works as a social worker with abused women, then meets her second husband. That is the next book I plan to publish, maybe in a couple of years, after several more rewrites. My first novel, "Photographs and Memories," published last spring, is about how the character Angela coped with moving to Florida and the death of her second husband.

Describe the publication process you went through after writing "Lucifer Rising."

"Lucifer Rising" is my second novel and was published the end of June, 2009. It’s a fantasy romance about a female reporter, Elsa, who falls in love with a cult leader who happens to be a reincarnation of the angel, Lucifer. After many break ups, she finally leaves him, hopefully for good, although she questions her decision at the end. I base a lot of my characters on people I’ve known, and using my imagination, I concoct fictional personalities. The events that happen in the novel, such as Elsa finding her lover with another woman are made up but could have happened in real life to the characters, based on the personalities of the individuals they depict. The novel was published by Outskirts Press in only six months after it was submitted.

What was the easiest thing about writing "Lucifer Rising?" The hardest?

"Lucifer Rising" just flowed from me, with little rewriting, while I was waiting for my first novel, "Photographs and Memories," to be published. I’ve never found an easier book to write. The hardest thing about writing "Lucifer Rising" was expressing feelings of pain and rejection through Elsa, the main character. Although she realizes her lover, Tyrell, is evil, she still cares about him and keeps trying to make it work.

Describe "Lucifer Rising" in three words.

In three words, "Lucifer Rising" could be described as “Cultist captivates women.”

Do you have any habits when you write? If so, what are they.

Writing habits: I write for hours on end, rewriting as I go, then rewriting what I wrote earlier the next day. Sometimes it takes me weeks to finish one chapter. When my head starts spinning from all of the rewrites, I often go out to take a walk. That clears my mind.

What is something surprising or shocking about you that most people don't know?

Many events and characters I write about I’ve experienced which may surprise many readers.

Where do you hang out offline?

I am involved in many clubs off-line. I am the newsletter editor for a local chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). I also attend Toastmaster’s which is training me how to speak to audiences about my novels.

Where do you hang out online?

Visit my website at http://fifieldauthor.com/

If after reading the review and readers want to purchase the novel, where should they go?

Those who wish to purchase "Lucifer Rising" may find it on Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.co,m or Outskirtspress.com’s bookstore.

Thank you, Barbara, for stopping by and answering a few questions. My review of "Lucifer Rising" will be posted soon.

A few weeks months ago I asked for your opinion: what books would you recommend to my students. I had a fantastic response. If my stats for that post are any indication, this question has been asked many times before and people, especially teachers, are still looking for those great recommendations. Well, after asking my mom (a school librarian) and the librarian at my school, I'm finally making public what we have put together. I'm pretty sure everybody can find something on this list; I know that nonfiction is an area I need to work on as well and as I'm expecting one nonfiction read from my students by the end of the semester I've set the same standard for myself.

If you'd like to look at these lists in a Google Doc format: Recs from Readers and Recs from Teachers

Here are the recommendations from other readers:
Title of Book
Diary of Anne Frank
In the Garden of Beasts
Manhunt
Farewell to Manzanar
Graphic Novels: Maus and Persepolis
Half Broke Horses
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
The Meaning of Matthew: My Son's Murder in Laramie, and a World Transformed
What is the What
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Freakonomics
Under the Black Flag
Cleopatra: A Life
All But My Life
Freedom Riders
Einstein's Refrigerator
Brothers in Arms
The Devil In The White City
Little Princes
360 Degrees Longitude
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

You Had Me at Woof
Decoded
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Night
Eat, Pray, Love
I am Scout: The Biography of Harper Lee I am Scout: The Biography of Harper Lee
The Glass Castle
The Children's Blizzard
Rocket Boys
Stitches: A Memoir

And here are the recommendations compiled by two fantastic school librarians:

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Everneath by Brodi Ashton
Publisher: Harper/Balzer + Bray (January 21st, 2012)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 370 pages
Source: Publisher
Series: Everneath #1
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath, where immortals Feed on the emotions of despairing humans. Now she's returned- to her old life, her family, her friends- before being banished back to the underworld… this time forever.

She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.

Nikki longs to spend these months reconnecting with her boyfriend, Jack, the one person she loves more than anything. But there's a problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who first enticed her to the Everneath, has followed Nikki to the mortal world. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back- this time as his queen.

As Nikki's time grows short and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she's forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's…
Review: I gotta say, Brodi Ashton sure knows how to put a new twist on an ancient Greek myth. I've never been the biggest fan of these retellings but this is way up on the list for my favorites I've read. When we meet Nikki she has been in the Everneath for 6 months (our time) but much longer than that in her reality. She had let heartbreak and sorrow lead her down a path and pointed straight at Cole — the new rock star with a few special abilities. Cole was able to give Nikki what she needed at the time and she made the decision to follow him.

Now Nikki is back, sort of. She doesn't feel completely normal and her friends have no idea what she has went through. She just wants a chance to make it okay before she is forced back into that world. Mostly, she wants to do the right thing for Jack, the guy she was dating when she went under.

The beginning of this story was a little confusing for me but that was part of the reason I kept reading. I'm new to these myths so I was interesting to see where everything fit. Nikki struggled to find her place and the only person who understood what was going on with her was Cole. At first I didn't feel really connected with Nikki. I wanted to really grasp why she had fought so hard to be back on the Surface but I didn't at first. The details came later and I felt much more connected with her as the story progressed.

One thing I really liked about the story was the way it was structured. We get to see Nikki as she progresses through her 6 months on the Surface, but we also get to see the time she spent before she went to the Everneath. By the end we have a much clearer picture of what happened and why so many people seem hurt by the situation. Jack was the one who went through the most and he really grabbed my heart. Who wouldn't want a guy like that? Jack was just so kind and mature, and it was so easy to see how he felt for Nikki. There were no games involved-- he just loved her!

It's easy to think that you could and should just hate Cole. He's the bad guy, right? But oh no, I didn't hate him. I felt so bad for him. Darn you Brodi for making him so enticing!! I really felt I understood Cole's actions. He was just doing what he was supposed to do and he didn't plan anything like what had happened with Nikki, not really. He's really a fun character because he has so many"sides".

Brodi did a fabulous job with this modern retelling. The story was easy to follow and the characters really made the story shine. Even without a ton of action, I never had a problem keeping focus on this story. The mystery behind it and the history among the characters was too fascinating for me to even think about putting the book down.
Everneath was a surprising read for me and one I that kept me highly entertained. I'm excited to see what happens with this series. Brodi Ashton has created a fabulous debut novel!

Recommended: Greek Mythology fans or fans of the paranormal. Very good read for young teens.

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Everneath is the February book pick for the new feature Blogger Talk: Novel Exposed. Each Saturday of the month Lisa (A Life Bound By Books) and I will be posting something new from Everneath or its wonderful author, Brodi Ashton.