The Space Between by Kristie Cook Published: April 5th, 2013 Reading Level: New Adult eBook edition Series: The Book of Phoenix, book #1 Rating: 5 of 5 stars Summary: When Life Falls to Pieces, Answers Lie in the Space Between
After a month-long dance tour through Italy, 20-year-old Leni Drago returns to Georgia to care for her great-uncle, only to find him gone, the home they shared empty and any evidence he ever existed wiped out. All that’s left is a journal she can’t open.
Jeric Winters has been searching for a piece of his past for over a year, only to reach a dead-end in Georgia. When an urgent and magnetic pull draws him out of his hotel room, he comes face-to-face with the beautiful dancer who’s been haunting his dreams day and night.
Jeric’s one to stay away from—a bad-boy, hit-it-and-quit-it type—but Leni can’t escape the fervent feelings between them. As their own existences begin to crumble around them and shadowy forms that are more monsters than men attack, they realize there’s more to the connection between them than physical fascination.
To solve the riddle their lives have become, they must embark on a journey that requires them to face their pasts and release their true souls. And they must do it fast—dark ones from another world are closing in, intent on killing them. Permanently.
Review:
When I think of this book I immediately remember how unique and captivating it was. This isn't just one story, it's technically two. I won't go into details on that but I will say that Kristie managed to seamlessly tell both stories and intertwine them in a way that could be easily understood and followed.
Leni and Jeric were outstanding! I truly believed their chemistry and the pull they felt towards one another. There was no doubt that they were connected. But these characters were far from perfect. They both had their flaws which made their personalities much more believable. The circumstances surrounding their meeting was so complex but it truly kept me intrigued and wanting more.
I've honestly never read a story even close to this one, plot-wise. I had no idea where the story was going or what the characters would find out. They are able to delve into the past and see how it would alter their present, and future. Although a lot of this story does help us grasp that idea, there is no lack of action and adventure for the characters. I was scared for them on multiple occasions! Darn you Kristie for making my heart race like that: )
The entire idea behind this was so intense and … romantic. Another perk is that we get the chance to hear from several POVs. That was critical to this story because it allowed me to truly understand the past of each character.
If you are looking for a story with a unique plot and fantastic characters, pick this one up. I am thrilled Kristie ventured into the NA area and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
Prize: 1 winner will receive a $5 G ift Card to Amazon or B&N.
Rules:
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 International and ends May 6th.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Kristie will be hosting a major giveaway on her site at the end of the tour for a $200 gift card or a swag bag full of goodies! To enter, readers can head over to http://www.kristiecook.com/2013/04/the-space-between-release-tour.html and enter via Rafflecopter. Rafflecopter form can be found HERE.
The Liberator by Victoria Scott To be released September 3rd, 2013 Add to Goodreads Summary: The official book blurb will be revealed April 2013. In the meantime, here's a note from Author Victoria Scott:
Hey guys! While I can't reveal many details yet, I will say this book was enormously emotional to write. More action, new characters, higher stakes, and a whole lot of sexy. I hope you enjoy reading the next chapter of Dante Walker's story!
By the way, Dante wants me to tell you… "Things only get darker from here, doll. Might want to hold my hand for this."
Game. Set. Match. by Janenifer Iacopelli To be released May 1st, 2013 Add to Goodreads Summary: Nestled along the coastline of North Carolina, the Outer Banks Tennis Academy is the best elite tennis training facility in the world. Head Coach, Dominic Kingston has assembled some of the finest talent in the sport. From the game's biggest stars to athletes scraping and clawing to achieve their dreams, OBX is full of ego, drama and romance. Only the strong survive in this pressure cooker of competition, on and off the court.
Penny Harrison, the biggest rising star in tennis, is determined to win the French Open and beat her rival, the world’s number one player, Zina Lutrova. There’s just one problem, the only person who’s ever been able to shake her laser-like focus is her new training partner. Alex Russell, tennis’s resident bad boy, is at OBX recovering from a knee injury suffered after he crashed his motorcycle (with an Aussie supermodel on the back). He's hoping to regain his former place at the top of men’s tennis and Penny’s heart, while he’s at it.
Tennis is all Jasmine Randazzo has ever known. Her parents have seven Grand Slam championships between them and she’s desperate to live up to their legacy. Her best friend is Teddy Harrison, Penny’s twin brother, and that’s all they’ve ever been, friends. Then one stupid, alcohol-laced kiss makes everything super awkward just as she as she starts prepping for the biggest junior tournament of the year, the Outer Banks Classic.
The Classic is what draws Indiana Gaffney out of the hole she crawled into after her mom’s death. Even though she’s new to OBX, a win at the Classic is definitely possible. She has a big serve and killer forehand, but the rest of her game isn’t quite up to scratch and it doesn’t help that Jasmine Randazzo and her little minions are stuck-up bitches or that Jack Harrison, Penny’s agent and oldest brother, is too hot for words, not to mention way too old for her.
Who will rise? Who will fall?
Told from rotating points of view, GAME. SET. MATCH., is a 'new adult' novel about three girls with one goal: to be the best tennis player in the world.
The Space Between by Kristie Cook To be published April 5th, 2013 Add to Goodreads Summary: When Life Falls to Pieces, Answers Lie in the Space Between
After a month-long dance tour through Italy, 20-year-old Leni Drago returns to Georgia to care for her great-uncle, only to find him gone, the home they shared empty and any evidence he ever existed wiped out. All that’s left is a journal she can’t open.
Jeric Winters has been searching for a piece of his past for over a year, only to reach a dead-end in Georgia. When an urgent and magnetic pull draws him out of his hotel room, he comes face-to-face with the beautiful dancer who’s been haunting his dreams day and night.
Jeric’s one to stay away from—a bad-boy, hit-it-and-quit-it type—but Leni can’t escape the fervent feelings between them. As their own existences begin to crumble around them and shadowy forms that are more monsters than men attack, they realize there’s more to the connection between them than physical fascination.
To solve the riddle their lives have become, they must embark on a journey that requires them to face their pasts and release their true souls. And they must do it fast—dark ones from another world are closing in, intent on killing them. Permanently.
**Mature Content** Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language.
The cover artist is Regina Wamba of Mae I Design (http://www.maeidesign.com/).
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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It's Wedding Day (at least here on the blog)! Wedding day started out for me by waking up with my little brother's Pomeranian (MJ) sleeping on my pillow and my face hanging off the bed and my Golden Retriever (Pippin) sleeping in the space between the wall and the bed that I needed to walk through — both dogs could definitely tell something was up.
My two Matrons of Honor and I left for my hair appointment and then had to back track because we forgot the veil (whoops). Upon arriving I told my hair stylist that I wanted to do something other than what we had planned — nothing major, but instead of curls in a pony tail in the back, I wanted a simple bun. The idea of curls had really been driving me crazy because with the dress being as "flowy" as it was and the veil being more chic than Princess, I wanted a hair style that would bring together all of those different elements. And, if I don't say so myself, I think this hair style pulled that off completely.
My mom and I After that a whole bunch of other exciting things happened (including me stabbing my eye with eyeliner and dropping to my knees asking God to stop the rain) but you don't want to hear all of that mundane information. After all of those minor details fixed themselves, I finally got to put on my dress.
My best friend Brandon "tied" me up and Anne pinned down my "hide away" straps (for the reception)
On goes the garter. You may remember this picture from last summer. But I thought it only fitting that Lyndsey get to be the one to put the garter on.
And before you know it I'm headed upstairs to see D for the first time.
And a few other random pictures...
Before the ceremony, to calm the nerves, of course I had a copy of "Pride and Prejudice"
We could hear the music upstairs but had to stay hidden so we took a minute to our selves and danced
At the dance they played "All That Jazz" — a song Puffer and I knew very well!
Best Friends!
Dan, my little brother, and I
The Reception Hall: Notice the lights and balloons!
The Cake!!
The throwing of the garter. Notice how hardcore those boys are!!
And, would you believe it, my BFF Button caught the bouquet! At the end of the day I walked away with my best friend and my soul mate — what a ride! I can't wait to show you all the professional pictures that were taken from the wedding and of course pictures of our new house and (my favorite room) the small sitting room or, as I like to call it, my mini-library. In the end, I can't believe everything came together. All that advice I was given about "everything will work out" was true! The day was absolutely perfect; I wouldn't change a single detail (except perhaps the eye liner in my eye). If you're in the wedding mood and haven't already checked out Shanyn (Chick Loves Lit) , Michelle (Hooked to Books) , Beth (A Foodie Bibliophile in Wanderlust) , and Lorren 's (The Story Girl) beautiful Wedding Day photos — please click on their names! It's like a whole bunch of happiness on my blog right now!
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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The post you are about to read is 100 % **Role Play
All the characters represented here (please see the list of all Role Players provided below ) with the exception of Lisa and myself are **Role Players from a group on twitter. They have agreed to role play with us to help celebrate not only our Halloween Event, but also to help share our love for the Black Dagger Brotherhood series by author J.R. Ward, as these Role Players are also huge fans of J.R. Ward's works.
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT NO ONE with this site/blog, Lisa’s site/blog nor the role-playing group — which you can find with the list of twitter accounts provided — is in any way, shape or form connected to or affiliated with J.R. Ward. No one present or represented here is J.R. Ward, nor is the role playing intended for any purpose other than the personal enjoyment of the Role Players involved.
Warning: This story contains mature and adult themes.
L/J: *nervously speaking* Wrath, Beth… everyone – thanks so much for having us. We’re excited that you agreed to let us visit with you. We hope you don’t mind us just throwing out questions while we’re here?
@FritzDoggen_BDB: Would you care for some refreshments? *holds out tray of wine and crepes*
L: Thank you @FritzDoggen_BDB *takes a glass of wine* J: *takes a crepe* Wow, Fritz these are amazing. You are a wonderful chef. Thank you.
@FritzDoggen_BDB: *smiles brightly* You are too kind. @Wrath_BDB: *studying the Monopoly board, but briefly stopping to nod once at the humans, then taking a crepe.* @BethR_BDB: We’re happy to have you. @Rhage_BDB: *smiles* We love to talk about ourselves. @Phury_BDB: *laughing* Well, @Rhage_BDB loves talking about himself, anyway. @Butch_BDB: *shakes head* Nah, babe. Have at it. @Rehvenge_BDB: *glances up from Monopoly board which I am pulling a Trump on and nods briefly, not wanting to miss @Zsadist_BDB’s trip to jail* @Zsadist_BDB: * gives a quick nod, directs attention back down to board, eyes turning black, growling at @Rehvenge_BDB, before moving thimble to jail* @DocJaneW_BDB: *Looking up from the plans, smiling* It's good to have you. @Vishous_BDB: *pulls down Red Sox cap and nods* @Tohrment_BDB: *taking a deep breath* Ready as I'm ever gonna be. @BellaR_BDB: *glances up from Nalla, who is playing with her hair and smiles* Not at all! Ask away. @MarissaH_BDB: *smiles warmly* We’re happy to have you here. @CormiaC_BDB: Yes, it’s lovely to meet some new people. @Lassiter_BDB: *glowing* Ask away. I know how fascinating I can be. @Vishous_BDB: Oh great, who invited the loud mouth? @Wrath_BDB: *groans* Sure as hell wasn’t me. @Blaylock_BDB: *smiles* I would be happy to answer your questions, thank you for coming. @Qhuinn_BDB: *gives L and J a lingering up-and-down look and a smile* The pleasure is all mine ladies… ask away.
L: *smiles* so, how is everyone?
@Wrath_BDB: *forgetting all about @Lassiter_BDB being here and glancing over at @BethR_BDB on the floor, playing with Nalla* We’re great. @BethR_BDB: We are doing great, thanks for asking. @Butch_BDB: Great thanks. @Rhage_BDB: *looks at @MaryL_BDB* Great. @Vishous_BDB: *lights up a hand rolled* @Lassiter_BDB: I’m great. There’s a Mary Tyler Moore marathon on. @Phury_BDB: *looks around at everyone, smiling* I’m with the Cop. Doing great. @Tohrment_BDB: *running my hand over my head* Just getting my bearings again, but better than I've been in a long while. @MarissaH_BDB: I’m quite well this evening. Thank you. @CormiaC_BDB: *looking up from plans for the medical center* Very well, thank you. I hope you are both well, also. @BellaR_BDB: *smiling warmly* Very good, thank you. How are the two of you? *glances at both of you* @DocJaneW_BDB: *beaming* I'm great, excited about the new plans. I apologize if I'm a bit preoccupied. @Blaylock_BDB: *pausing our xbox game* I am doing great! Kicking @Qhuinn_BDB’s butt at the moment. *laughs and ducks away from Qhuinn as he tries to punch me, but only grazes my arm* @Qhuinn_BDB: I’ll be a helluva lot better after a few shots of Herradurra. Hey, @FritzDoggen_BDB, would you mind bringing me some limes and salt? @FritzDoggen_BDB: *nods and leaves to find limes and salt*
L: I’m great thanks – really excited to be here with everyone. *looks up at everyone around the room* J: Yeah, we’re both really excited to be here. We’ve been so busy planning this Halloween event that it’s great to take this time away to hang out with everyone. *small smile* Oh, I know something that I’ve wanted to know… What’s the hardest part about living so close together?
@Wrath_BDB: The lack of privacy. *grins towards @BethR_BDB* @Rehvenge_BDB: *feels overwhelming gratitude to NOT live here* @Zsadist_BDB: Keeping people out of your shi.I mean biz. @Butch_BDB: *laughs* I take it you haven’t smelled the gym. You’d never ask that if you have. These bastards stink.
L: *wrinkles my nose*
@Butch_BDB: *laughs* Yeah, that’s what I’m talkin’ about. @Vishous_BDB: Getting to the food before Rhage eats it all. *nods head to Butch* His snoring. Wondering why the sin eater and that one *points @Lassiter_BDB* are always here. @Butch_BDB: Hey man, you can’t possibly hear me snoring through the walls. @Vishous_BDB: I have vampire hearing. I hear everything. @Rhage_BDB: *glares at V* Hey there is plenty of food left for you. Sometimes. @Phury_BDB: It’s not really a problem for me anymore. *looks over at @CormiaC_BDB, smiles* But I’d agree with @Vishous_BDB — trying to wrangle the food away from @Rhage_BDB was always a challenge. @MaryL_BDB: I don’t mind the closeness, though sometimes the wild games of football make it tough for us to get alone time with our boys. @Tohrment_BDB: *Doesn't answer* @BellaR_BDB: *rolling eyes at @Zsadist_BDB’s answer* I think privacy is the biggest challenge. You have none living together. @BethR_BDB: Sometimes it can be overwhelming, but it’s a large place so it isn’t too hard to find a private space. *smiles @Wrath_BDB* @MarissaH_BDB: *smiling* I wouldn’t be anywhere else. I found friends and family here and a new purpose. *meets @Butch_BDB’s eyes, seeing his pride in me* @DocJaneW_BDB: I love it here but I'm looking forward to all the time I'll be spending at the clinic once it opens. @CormiaC_BDB: *smiles@Phury_BDB* Everyone was wonderful to me when I stayed here. @Lassiter_BDB: *points @Vishous_BDB* Him. @Blaylock_BDB: I really enjoy having @John_MatthewBDB and @Qhuinn_BDB so close, but at times it is hard to live with Qhuinn, if you know what I mean. *blushes* @Qhuinn_BDB: I guess it can be a pain if I want some privacy. Sure, we can go to the gym and hit the treadmill, but the house is pretty full. There’s always someone around.
L: But, really would any of you have it any other way?
@Butch_BDB: Nope. @Zsadist_BDB: No. @Vishous_BDB: S’all good. @Butch_BDB: Even with my snoring, man? @Vishous_BDB: Yeah. Even with. @Rhage_BDB: Not at all. @Phury_BDB: I sometimes miss being here every day with the Brothers, but I wouldn’t trade my life with Cormia and having the Chosen with us… @CormiaC_BDB: I think I’m right where I am meant to be… @Tohrment_BDB: *Thinks back to when it was just me with Wellsie, in our house and I decide not to answer, again* @Wrath_BDB: *watching Tohr’s internal turmoil shine in his eyes, then glancing around to all the brothers and their shellans* This is how it should be. @MaryL_BDB: I wouldn’t change it. I grew up an only child. I enjoy the company. @MarissaH_BDB: *shakes head* Absolutely not. @FritzDoggen_BDB: *smiles, pleased the house is full. Wishing @DariusBDB could see it* @BethR_BDB: At first I wasn’t sure how I’d like it, to be honest. But, I also knew that it was the right decision. Don’t get me wrong, it can be frustrating, and I don’t always have @Wrath_BDB’s undivided attention as often as I’d like… but it feels right to have everyone here. @Lassiter_BDB: PFFFT Hell yeah. *But really likes it here*
J: @Lassiter_BDB – Well, what has been the biggest difference for you since being around all the brothers and their shellans?
@Lassiter_BDB: I’m used to being alone so this many people is a huge difference. And having to put up with his mouth *points at @Vishous_BDB* @Blaylock_BDB: I would not change a thing! @Qhuinn_BDB: *nods at @Blaylock_BDB* I’m with him. Wouldn’t change it!
J: And how about With Halloween coming up, any plans for the holiday?
@Vishous_BDB: I am trying to get Jane to wear a hot nurse outfit. *winks @DocJaneW_BDB* @Rhage_BDB: I may let the beast out and take all the tootsie pops from kids that are too old to be trick or treating.
L: *thinking how I’ve never been able to look at a tootsie pop the same since reading their stories*
@MaryL_BDB: @Rhage_BDB! You wouldn’t! I guess I’ll be spending Halloween keeping @Rhage_BDB too busy to steal candy. *blushes* @Tohrment_BDB: *shakes head* Can't say I've thought about it. @Wrath_BDB: Beth wants to hand candy out, so we’ll head back to the house in town for Halloween night. @BethR_BDB: I look forward to handing out candy… and trying not to eat all of it myself. *laughs* @Lassiter_BDB: I’m with @Tohrment_BDB on this one. @Qhuinn_BDB: *cocks head to the side* Am I too old to dress up and go trick-or-treating?
J: @Qhuinn_BDB — No, not at all! What would you dress up as??
@Blaylock_BDB: Well, Q, you could go as Frankenstein with all that metal, but you might scare all the kids. @Qhuinn_BDB: The last thing @Wrath_BDB needs is a flock of hysterical human females following us home.
L: Yes, but a more important question… Will any of you be helping Fritz carve pumpkins?
@Vishous_BDB: Yeah. For Nalla. @Wrath_BDB: *nods in agreement, and shaking the dice for my turn* @Rhage_BDB: Yeah, for Nalla. *smiles at Nalla* @Tohrment_BDB: Of course, for Nalla. *Reflects on difficult memories before shaking it off* @BellaR_BDB: *laughs* Nalla’s going to have several pumpkins carved for her by these males! *looks at Nalla, smiles* @MaryL_BDB: I better be included in the pumpkin carving. @DocJaneW_BDB: I'm pretty wicked with a knife, it would be a shame not to. And of course I will add to the Nalla collection *laughs* @FritzDoggen_BDB: *smiles* @BethR_BDB: I can’t wait! I even made sure to get little Nalla-sized pumpkins to decorate. *smiling warmly* @Blaylock_BDB: *laughs* I will give anything a go for Nalla. @Qhuinn_BDB: I think pumpkin carving sounds like fun! Maybe I could pierce it, or give it a few tats? *smiles*
L: I mean come on, you each have skills with knives, I’m sure you’d come up with something creative when it comes to carving pumpkins! What about you @Phury_BDB? You’re extremely artistic from what I’ve read… I think you’d have a knack for carving?
@Vishous_BDB: I know I do, true? @Rhage_BDB: Not as good as mine. @Phury_BDB: And neither of your skills are actually as good as your egos lead you to believe. *laughs* But, yes, I’m sure I’ll be trying to carve some pumpkins for Nalla. And I’m sure @CormiaC_BDB will design something as well… and the Chosen will probably want to help… *cringes, thinking of the mess* @Wrath_BDB: *rolls snake eyes which lands me on Marvin Gardens and I buy it* @Tohrment_BDB: Not gonna lie, I'm better when I'm aiming a gun, but my knife skills are on point.
J: @BellaR_BDB and @Zsadist_BDB, any plans for Halloween for Nalla?
@Rehvenge_BDB: *an uncharacteristic smile lighting my face at the mere mention of my niece* @Zsadist_BDB: *looks over at @BellaR_BDB* @BellaR_BDB: *grins and glances at @Zsadist_BDB* I want to dress her up. I’m trying to decide between a princess and a punk rocker. @Vishous_BDB: I vote for punk rocker. @Lassiter_BDB: Oh you should dress her up like a little Mary Tyler Moore! @Rhage_BDB: We could get her a little dragon costume and she can look like me. @MarissaH_BDB: I think Nalla would make a wonderful princess.
L: Well, if I had a vote, I’d say Punk Rocker, because Nalla sounds like she’s a princess everyday. *smiling while looking at Nalla and feeling the love swell in the room*
@BellaR_BDB: *grin widening* I’m leaning toward the punk rocker, too. Maybe with a little mohawk like her Uncle. *glancing at @Zsadist_BDB and @Rehvenge_BDB, seeing matching expressions of disapproval… and laughing*
J: Well, if I had a vote I’d say the best of both worlds – a Punk Rock Princess. *giggles* Maybe we could set up a play date sometime for Nalla and my little girl? *laughs* M already thinks she’s a vampire, and I have no idea where she got that idea from! *smiling*
@BellaR_BDB: That would be nice! Nalla needs to be around other young.
L: Okay… I’m sorry, enough with the Halloween talk… can I ask about scary movies at least? I know your movie watchers, so you have to have a favorite? For me, I’ll never be able to watch Poltergeist again ever since I saw it when I was I think 11 or 12. Nor will I ever be able to sleep with the closet door open again… *trails off and looks up for answers*
@Vishous_BDB: I love that sh- stuff. I love the Halloween, the Freddy were pretty imaginative, true? @DocJaneW_BDB: *smiling at @Vishous_BDB* I'm with him, blood doesn't scare me. Though I like comedy based “horror” too – like Beetlejuice. @Rehvenge_BDB: *shudders* Any movie with spiders or scorpions creeps me the fu… I really can’t stomach those movies anymore. @Rhage_BDB: Yeah I love all of it. @MaryL_BDB hates it. @Tohrment_BDB: That Buried movie that's coming out looks pretty intense. Might have to check it. I like to watch people fleeing the likes of Godzilla the best, though *chuckles*
L: @Tohrment_BDB – yeah, that Buried movie is one I really want to see. As for Godzilla, we’re talking Godzilla vs. Mothra originals right? What did you think of the remake?
@Tohrment_BDB: *Furrows brow*Remakes are for people with no original ideas, know what I'm sayin? There's no excuse for messing with perfection. @BethR_BDB: *laughs along with @Tohrment_BDB* I always cheer for the monster. @Wrath_BDB: *raises a brow* Tohr, how many times have you seen Godzilla? Seriously, man. I’m going to send you to Bad Horror Flicks Anonymous soon. @Tohrment_BDB: Hey, it's a good flick. Besides, Bad Horror Flicks Anonymous shut down for lack of membership *grins @Wrath_BDB*.
L: @Wrath_BDB actually, bad horror movies are the best! I’m all about those horrible B movies *says a little too excitedly*
@Wrath_BDB: *shakes head* To each his own. You and Tohr should have a movie night sometime. *Nods towards the hallway* We have a movie theater in here. He’d be a lot less cranky with Lassy off his ass. @BellaR_BDB: *shudders* I’m not a scary movie fan. Comedies are more my style. @Lassiter_BDB: I like movies with more style. @Butch_BDB: Seems like Twilight would be right up your alley. They sparkle, you glow… you’re kinda like cousins. *glances over at @Vishous_BDB winking* @Phury_BDB: *looks @Lassiter_BDB* Is that what you call the Lifetime Women’s movies you and @Rhage_BDB watch?
J: Hey, nothing wrong with Lifetime. They have some good stuff! L: *trying to picture @Rhage_BDB and @Lassiter_BDB passing a tissue box back and forth. Nope, can't see it.*
@Rhage_BDB: I do not watch that crap! @MaryL_BDB: Scary movies aren’t my thing, though I did see a great foreign vampire film, Let the Right One In. Subtitles and everything. A little too cerebral for @Rhage_BDB. Love you baby. *winks* @CormiaC_BDB: I’ve not really watched any of the scary movies, but I have found I rather like some of the movies with Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn.
L: @CormiaC_BDB – Have you seen Breakfast at Tiffany’s?
@CormiaC_BDB: No I haven’t seen that movie yet. Is it an enjoyable film? If so, we’ll have to watch it.
L: Speaking of movies, did any of you see Twilight? Or what about that other movie… what’s it called Jessica? J: Vampires Suck? L: Yeah… *laughing* that one?
@Rehvenge_BDB: *shaking head in disgust* @Zsadist_BDB: *growls* @Wrath_BDB: I’m not a big movie watcher, but I hear the Cop likes that Twilight one. @Butch_BDB: *groans* Oh man, I knew that would come up… @Vishous_BDB: *grins* Oh yeah, the cop here loves to watch Twilight. Caught him watching one day when he thought I was asleep. And we all know @Rhage_BDB wishes he would sparkle. @Rhage_BDB: *rolls eyes* Says the vampire that doubles as a night light. @Phury_BDB: V, Did the t-shirts not arrive yet for @Butch_BDB and @Rhage_BDB? The ones that say “I love sparkly vamps”? @Lassiter_BDB: Nothing wrong with a little sparkle. *smiles* @Butch_BDB: *laughs* You’d fit right in with the Veggie Vamps, Lassy. @Tohrment_BDB: *shrugs* Never even heard of it. @MaryL_BDB: Oh no. I’ve heard the jokes, got to hear all about the kitchen fight, but Twilight not my cup of tea. @DocJaneW_BDB: *sarcastically* Fate… destiny… who believes in that? *laughs* Either way, I think I'd lose my bad ass bitch card, if I watched that one. @Qhuinn_BDB: Twi-what? *shakes head, laughing* No way, not happening. @BethR_BDB: I found a t-shirt that said “I <3 Boys who sparkle” but @Wrath_BDB didn’t see the humor in it. *chuckling at the memory* @Wrath_BDB: That’s because I’m not a boy nor do I sparkle, leelan. *smirks* @BellaR_BDB: *laughing* I’ve seen Twilight. I’m a vamp girl! @Blaylock_BDB: *Dropping my head and blushing* I have seen the Twilight movies and really liked them.
J: Um, is this the wrong time to say that I’m ummm… Team Werewolf??
@Tohrment_BDB: *grins*No worries, can't be jealous of something that only exists on the big screen and in fairytales. @Butch_BDB: *shaking my head* Team Werewolf? *laughs and then remembers I used to laugh at the thought of vampires… * @DocJaneW_BDB: *Thinking to myself that it would be a fascinating species to study, if they were real, before refocusing on the plans*
Check back in tomorrow night for part two!
If you would like to follow along with the all the Black Dagger Brotherhood Twitter Role Players is part of this group, please USE GOOGLE to easily follow each character. And trust me, you don't know what your missing! So hurry and follow today!
@FritzDoggen_BDB Online: (updates, notes and information on the Twitter Role Playing Group)
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Order All 8 books in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series and Preorder book 9 Online here:
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Thank you so much to all the characters from the Black Dagger Brotherhood Twitter Role Play group for all the time and effort they have been putting in to help us celebrate not only Halloween and our event, but also our love for all that is the Brotherhood and J.R. Ward.
Reference:
**Role Play
–verb (used with object) 1. to assume the attitudes, actions, and discourse of (another), esp. in a make-believe situation in an effort to understand a differing point of view or social interaction: Management trainees were given a chance to role-play labor negotiators. 2. to experiment with or experience (a situation or viewpoint) by playing a role: trainees role-playing management positions. –verb (used without object) 3. to engage in role-playing.
Interview by Lisa (L) & Jessica (J)
All who are attending?
Playing Pool are Vishous_BDB & @Tohrment_BDB with @Butch_BDB and @Rhage_BDB playing next. Playing Monopoly are @Rehvenge_BDB, @Zsadist_BDB, @Wrath_BDB, @Phury_BDB, and Jessica and I. @BellaR_BDB and @BethR_BDB are playing with Nalla. @DocJaneW_BDB, @MaryL_BDB, @CormiaC_BDB, @EhlenaA_BDB, and @MarissaH_BDB are looking over more plans for the medical facility while waiting for a shellan monopoly. It is much calmer. No daggers. @John_MatthewBDB and @Xhex_BDB come in later, still in honeymoon phase they are… looking happy. @Qhuinn_BDB and @Blaylock_BDB are playing Xbox. @Lassiter_BDB flutters from group to group inputting his two cents. @FritzDoggen_BDB serving crepes and drinks.
Check out Lisa's Haunted Halloween post!NOTE: This post will be the same on both of our blogs.
REMINDER: *If you are interested in the COMMENT CONTEST, remember to include your email address with your comment for an extra entry! Please ready full entry rules HERE.
“Ray, I don’t think we’re alone in this house.” My mother held her breath, waiting for my father’s response. They’d just moved into the old cottage that faced the highway. Finding another place to live was probably out of the question.
“Of course not, Alice. The baby’s here, too.”
“No, that’s not what I mean. We, the three of us, aren’t alone. Someone else is here too.”
My father’s shoulders stiffened. “Like an intruder?” His voice filled with a fierce mixture of testosterone and the urge to protect his own.
“No,” she shook her head, trying to explain the recent events to her no-nonsense spouse. “It’s a… presence. And it’s here all the time.”
His brow furrowed. “A ghost?”
She nodded. “Yes, I think so. I’m pretty sure it’s a child.”
He narrowed his eyes. “And how would you know that?
“During the day, when you’re at work and I’m here with Lea, it plays with me. When I’m in the kitchen with the baby, I’ll hear something moving or jingling in the living room. As soon as I go in there to see what it is, the pots and pans start rattling in the pantry. This happens all day long, no matter where I am.” She gazed into my father’s pale blue eyes. “It’s happening so much, I’ve started talking to it, telling it I know it’s there. I think it believes we’re playing a game. And… I can almost see it. Not if I look at it straight on, but once in a while, I’ll catch a glimpse of something that looks like a wisp of smoke from the corner of eye.”
As my father stared hard at her, my mother knew he was working to make sense of all he’d just heard. Yes it was far-fetched, and sounded completely crazy, but it was also the truth.
He rubbed his chin. “Are you afraid?”
“No. It hasn’t done anything to hurt me or Lea, so I think we’re safe.”
Sometime later as my parents were watching television one evening, they heard me babbling in my bed.
My mother sighed. “I don’t know why she won’t go down. Would you go in there and see what she’s up to?”
Dutifully, my father headed to my room and found me sitting up in bed speaking to no one he could see.
“What are you doing?” he asked, scanning the room.
I turned my head toward the doorway. “Talking to my friend.” Though I was just over a year old, I was an unusually early talker.
“Your friend?” he asked.
“Yes.” I smiled and glanced back at the empty space before me.
“Is your friend here?”
Nodding, I pointed directly in front of me. “Right there.”
He drew a deep breath. “Well, it’s time to go to sleep, so tell your friend you can see him in the morning.”
“Okay,” I answered as I lay down.
Over the next few months, the ghostly presence became a part of our little family. Eventually my father began to see it too, hovering in a corner between the living and dining rooms, its diaphanous appearance vanishing whenever he attempted to look at it straight on. If he had any doubts of the ghost’s existence, they evaporated the night he heard my Fisher Price toy xylophone tinkling out a distinct tune. Sure I’d gotten out of bed to strike the multi-colored keys with my wooden mallet, he charged into my room and found me sound asleep. The xylophone was deep in my toy box, well out of reach.
Not long after, as my nearly six-month pregnant mother reclined on the couch one evening, both she and my father saw the apparition hovering in the corner, but this time it appeared to linger longer than usual. It disappeared and a few seconds later, an eerie, cold sensation crawled across my mother’s body and the icy impression of a small hand clutched her foot.
It was the last time they ever saw or heard from the ghost again.
So what about you, readers? It’s one thing to think you may have a ghost in your house, it’s another to see it. Would you rather retain that comfortable distance (and plausible deniability), or would you prefer to confirm its existence with your own eyes?
Lea Nolan writes the kinds of stories she sought as a teen—smart paranormals with bright heroines, crazy-hot heroes, diabolical plot twists, plus a dose of magic, a draft of romance, and a sprinkle of history. She’s holds degrees in history and women’s studies concentrating in public policy and spent fifteen years as a health policy analyst and researcher. She lives in Maryland with her heroically supportive husband and three clever children.
Her debut YA novel, CONJURE, book one in The Hoodoo Apprentice Series releases on October 23, 2012 from Entangled Publishing. In CONJURE, three teens discover a mysterious 18th-century pirate treasure and inadvertently unleash a wicked flesh-eating curse. To save her brother’s life and the soul of her unrequited secret-crush, Emma Guthrie must apprentice herself to an elderly Gullah root worker to learn hoodoo magic and break the hex.
Conjure by Lea Nolan Publisher: Entangled Publishing (October 23rd, 2012) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 314 pages Series: The Hoodoo Apprentice, #1 Be careful what you search for…
Emma Guthrie expects this summer to be like any other in the South Carolina Lowcountry--hot and steamy with plenty of beach time alongside her best friend and secret crush, Cooper Beaumont, and Emma’s ever-present twin brother, Jack. But then a mysterious eighteenth-century message in a bottle surfaces, revealing a hidden pirate bounty. Lured by the adventure, the trio discovers the treasure and unwittingly unleashes an ancient Gullah curse that attacks Jack with the wicked flesh-eating Creep and promises to steal Cooper’s soul on his approaching sixteenth birthday.
When a strange girl appears, bent on revenge; demon dogs become a threat; and Jack turns into a walking skeleton; Emma has no choice but to learn hoodoo magic to undo the hex, all before summer—and her friends--are lost forever.
Prize:
1 winner will receive an ebook of Conjure, magnet, and a signed bookmark.
Rules:
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 November 10th.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook
Amazon | Barnes & Noble 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. Don't forget to check out Lisa's Haunted Halloween post for today!
It's now time for the YA Book Prize Pack Giveaway!! Two winners for this one. Each will receive 12 books and lots of swag. Yes, 12 BOOKS! Want to know what you have a chance to win? Well, look no further.
Prizes:
2 winners will receive a YA prize pack with 12 books and swag.
Prize Pack #1
Includes: Halo (ARC) by Alexandra Adornetto Misguided Angel by Melissa de la Cruz Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready The Hollow by Jessica Verday Paranormalcy (ARC) by Kiersten White Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith Eternal by Cynthia Leitich Smith Rich and Mad by William Nicholson The Uninvited by Tim Wynne-Jones Light Beneath Ferns by Anne Spollen Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl
Prize Pack #2
Includes: Halo (ARC) by Alexandra Adornetto Misguided Angel by Melissa de la Cruz Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready The Hollow by Jessica Verday Infinite Days (ARC) by Rebecca Maizel Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson Another Faust by Daniel Nayeri & Dina Nayeri The Space Between Trees (SIGNED) by Katie Williams Your Neighborhood Gives Me the Creeps by Adam Selzer My So-Called Death by Stacey Jay Blue Plate Special by Michelle Kwasney Emma and the Vampires by Wayne Josephson *Each prize pack will contain swag from the following books: Firelight, Tell Me A Secret, The DUFF, Losing Faith, The Emerald Talisman, The Sapphire Talisman, Forget-Her-Nots, The Deathday Letter, The Secret Year, Mistwood, The Thirteenth Chime, Crash Into Me, Truly Madly, The Body Finder, Forgive My Fins, and Splurch Academy.
Rules:
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 October 31st.
Once contacted the winner will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.
The form must be filled out to enter.
* NOTE: THIS IS THE SAME FORM TO ENTER THAT IS ON LISA'S BLOG. ONLY ONE ENTRY WILL COUNT.
Good luck everyone!
*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.
I write for a living but I think in pictures. I’ve always been a visual learner. When I conceive of a story, I usually get a line or two accompanied by a whole slew of images. As I outline my books, I often build the pace around visual cues –and I block out my scenes as if they are on a big movie screen in my head. Readers and reviewers tell me that my novels play out like movies to them. I find that genuinely satisfying.
No doubt there’s a connection between my visual sense and my childhood. I’ve always wanted to write, but before I actually had a decent command of language I was telling stories using toys. After I discovered comic books, I began drawing my own. I was also addicted to TV and movies. I grew up in the sixties with shows like Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, Lost in Space, Dark Shadows, Outer Limits, Star Trek, and reruns of The Twilight Zone. I watched every movie they played on TV, from the sword-and-sandal Steve Reeve epics to old Universal monster flicks to John Wayne westerns. By the time I was nine I was bluffing my way into the movies to see films I should never have been allowed to see. Like Night of the Living Dead, which premiered when I was ten.
For a long time I thought that I would become an artist rather than a writer, and specifically a comic book artist. I wanted to be both Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. I wanted to be Denny O’Neil and Neal Adams. I have thick folders of old sketches. All sorts of stuff, from pictures of animals to character concepts to portraits. Some of it’s pretty good, a lot of it –sadly—isn’t.
The thing about my art is that it’s wildly inconsistent. I’ve done a few pieces that were good enough to have prints made. My Bruce Lee portrait, a study of a Crow, and my interpretation of Gandalf all sold out signed/numbered limited print runs of 500 each. Unfortunately my good days are like little islands in a sea of mediocre days.
That’s a hard thing –the point where you realize that you have a talent, but there just isn’t enough of it to open a doorway into a career.
Luckily, my first love was really storytelling, and I have made a very successful career as a novelist, short story writer, magazine feature writer and –yes—comic book writer. (But they don’t let me draw my own comics… and I can see their point).
I do enjoy drawing, though, and I wanted to share a few of the pieces I’ve done that I either really like, or that have interesting back-stories.
BRUCE LEE: This is the picture that is permanently set on Bruce Lee’s tombstone. I drew it right there, sitting cross-legged on the grass in Lakeview Cemetery in Seattle.
GANDALF THE GRAY: In eleventh grade I talked my AP English teacher into adding The Lord of the Rings to the official reading list. I had to make a real case for it, and somewhere I still have the paper I wrote. And I had to stand in front of the class and defend my choice. A number of years later I met an old friend for lunch who recalled that incident. Afterward I sat down and drew this.
CROW: A lot of people tell me that this looks more like a raven. We don’t have ravens in Philadelphia and I drew this while looking out the window at a bunch of crows. Maybe there was raven traveling incognito.
UNDEAD (for Ghost Road Blues): This is a concept sketch I did while plotting out my first novel, GHOST ROAD BLUES. I had an image in mind of a vampire pretending to be a scarecrow in order to play a very ugly prank on his victims. I think the visual quality of that novel helped it to become a success, and it won the Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel and was a finalist for Novel of the Year. This is one of several drawings of this kind of monster. I may actual use this for a middle-grade novel in a year or so.
HUNTING FOR MONSTERS: This is another concept sketch, this time for BAD MOON RISING (third in the Pine Deep Trilogy, of which GHOST ROAD BLUES was the first. The middle book is DEAD MAN’S SONG). I had a scene set in a cellar and wanted to capture the spooky, claustrophobic feel of the scene. Even though the scene –as actually written—is a bit different, that scene started with this sketch.
AIRMEN OF LOTT: Another concept sketch. This one’s for a Steampunk story that I’ve had cooking in my head for a while. I’m developing a Young Adult story –or possibly a series—that’s a collision of alternate history, fantasy and Steampunk. It’s still in development, though.
Dead of Night by Jonathan Maberry Publisher: St. Martin's Press (October 25th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 320 pages A prison doctor injects a condemned serial killer with a formula designed to keep his consciousness awake while his body rots in the grave. But all drugs have unforeseen side-effects. Before he could be buried, the killer wakes up. Hungry. Infected. Contagious. This is the way the world ends. Not with a bang… but a bite.
For the month of October, here at Confessions of a Bookaholic and over at my co-hosts blog — A Life Bound By Books, we will be hosting a Comment Contest! We love comments, authors love comments, and for each comment you leave on either of our blogs during our Haunted Halloween Event — will get you entries to win some great prizes!!
How does it work you ask? It’s pretty easy – just leave a comment (one comment per person, per post) with your email address and your entered! Comment on as many posts as you’d like. The more posts you comment on, the more entries you get. Just remember, one comment per person per Haunted Halloween post and you must include your email address each time which lets us know you’d like an entry.
Prizes:
4 winners
-1st Place — 8 books and swag Crusade by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguié Guardian of the Gate (ARC) by Michelle Zink Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready Misguided Angel (Blue Bloods, #5) by Melissa de la Cruz The Awakening (Ghost Huntress, #1) by Marley Gibson The Guidance (Ghost Huntress, #2) by Marley Gibson The Reason (Ghost Huntress, #3) by Marley Gibson The Counseling (Ghost Huntress, #4) by Marley Gibson and lots of swag! - 2nd Place — 5 books and swag Raised by Wolves (ARC) by Janenifer Lynn Barnes The Dark Divine (ARC) by Bree Despain Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson The Hollow by Jessica Verday Of All Stupid Things (ARC) by Alexandra Diaz and swag! - 3rd Place — 3 books Marked by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast The Rise of Renegade X (ARC) by Chelsea Campbell The Space Between Trees (signed) by Katie Williams a Chronicle tote bag
- 4th Place — 2 books Gothic: Ten Original Dark Tales by Deborah Noyes, Gregory Maguire, Garth Nix, Celia Rees, Barry Yourgrau, Janni Lee Simner, Vivian Vande Velde, Joan Aiken, more… M.T. Anderson, Neil Gaiman, Caitlín R. Kiernan The Sallie House Haunting by Debra Lyn Pickman
Entries:
ONE comment per Haunted Halloween post on this blog and A Life Bound By Books counts.
Comments count as extra entries into the giveaway for the prizes listed. One comment with email per post = 1 extra entry to win!
No form required. As long as you leave your email and are eligible to win (are at least age 13 and have a US address) you can enter!
Rules:
You must be at least 13 to enter.
You MUST leave an email with each comment for it to be counted.
Only one comment for each post will count.
Comments can ONLY be for Haunted Halloween posts! No other comments will count!
Copying and pasting comments WILL NOT be counted.
Contest is US ONLY and ends October 31st.
Once contacted the winners will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.
* Questions? Email TheBestReader [at] hotmail [dot] com or alifeboundbybooks [at] hotmail [dot] com
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
4th Place
Contest starts NOW so start commenting! Remember to include your email with each comment!
EXCERPT I step into his personal space and lift my hands to his shoulder blades. I press my palms to his muscular back. His head falls forward and his chest fully inflates as he draws in a deep breath. It’s the reassuring sign that I need from him. My tongue darts from my mouth and makes a pass over my lips. I lean forward and drop one chaste kiss in the middle of his back. “Baby, please,” I croon. “Talk to me!” He whirls around to face me, taking me by surprise. “What do you want from me?!” “I-I just want you to talk to me. I want to make sure we’re on the same page as far as we are concerned,” I sputter out, looking to him for the words I need to hear. “Josephine, we aren’t on the same page. Actually, I don’t even think we’re in the same book.” The way he says it is exhaustive, like I’m irritating him or something. It cuts me like a white-hot knife. “I’m not myself; I’m out of control and I don’t know how to come back.” He runs those big hands through his disheveled hair and the expression on his handsome face is one of hopelessness. I know the look well. I step closer to him and reach for his hand. “Before you walked into my life, I felt the floor crumbling beneath my feet. Then you showed up and I had something to hold onto. Let me do the same for you. At least let me try. Please.”
Restore Me by J.L. Mac Published: April 29th, 2013 Reading Level: New Adult/Adult eBook edition: 137 pages Series: Wrecked, #2 Navigating the world alone is all Josephine Geroux has ever known. Life altering tragedy struck early on for her. She endured an admirable struggle through her youth and learned the hard way how to adapt and survive. She managed to arrive at adulthood in one piece in spite of it all.
After such chaos, maintaining a life free of complications is a priority for her. Everything changed when a man with amber eyes came through her door and claimed her heart. She fell hard in more ways than one. The pull between Jo and Damon seemed like fate bringing things full circle.
With another devastating loss looming, Jo fights to hold on to the very thing that brought her to her knees. She finds herself torn between a promising future and clinging to a devastating past. But that’s not the most worrisome problem on her hands.
She must convince more than just herself to let the past stay in the past, where it belongs, but on her journey to find closure and resolution, she does the exact opposite. An old wound caused by a heinous act becomes exposed for what it is. The truth is catastrophic and Jo is helpless, watching as the ruins of her fragile world endure more turmoil.
Can something conceived from tragedy and malice end well? Can something so completely poisoned conquer adversity? Jo is left to make a decision; accept the circumstances she finds herself in or fight with unwavering ferocity to restore what has been damaged. *Restore Me is the second book in the Wrecked series* Bio: USA Today Best Selling Author,J.L. Mac is twenty-six years old and currently resides in El Paso, Texas, where she enjoys living near her family. She was born and raised in Galveston, Texas, until
she married her husband in July of 2005. She has two young children and is married to a soldier in the United States Army. J.L. and her family have lived all over the United States and have enjoyed each new experience in each new place. J.L. admittedly has had a long and sordid love affair with the written word and has loved every minute of it. She drinks too many glasses of wine on occasion,and says way too many swear words to be considered “lady-like.” J.L. spends her free time reading, writing, and playing with her children.
Goodreads Page http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6654493.J_L_Mac Goodreads book link http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17405850-restore-me
Giveaway AUTHOR is giving away: 10 ebooks of Restore Me 3 signed paperbacks of Restore Me 3 ereader/tablet sleeves 3 $5 Amazon Gift Cards 1 Kindle Paperwhite
"I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with." — Miss Remmers
Release Date: January 3rd, 2012 Publisher: Feiwel and Friends Challenges: 100+ Challenge, eBook Challenge
"Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl... . Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.In this thrilling debut young adult novel, the first of a quartet, Marissa Meyer introduces readers to an unforgettable heroine and a masterfully crafted new world that’s enthralling."
"Cinder" entered my life at the worst possible moment — a week before my research papers were due. Needless to say, until today I had only read to page 28. The subsequent pages were read in one sitting while the husband played COD.
"Cinder" is more than a re-imagining of the classic Cinderella story but is more comparable to Star Wars meets "Across the Universe" with a little bit of Cinderella twisted in type of story. When I think of Cinderella, I think of foolish stepsisters, a wicked stepmother, a quiet and almost ridiculous Prince, and of course the few mice and pumpkins. "Cinder" on the other hand incorporates one evil, and I mean REALLY, evil stepsister (what a brat!), and WITCH of a stepmother!, a handsome, humorous, and chivalrous Prince, with a few androids sprinkled in.
Quick note: I had to ask Husband, but apparently a cyborg (if you didn't know) is part human part machine and an android is all machine.
First with the evil people — while reading this story I could feel myself flush with anger and my cheeks redden with indignation towards Adri and even Pearl. I've loved and cried for characters before (see Delirium and Pandemonium) but I don't think I've ever really hated a character so much in a book that I could feel the physical effects and drain on my body after reading.
The prince, much like the evilness of these two characters, goes away beyond the quiet dark haired prince from the Disney classic. While Cinder and Kai did fall rather quickly, I was rooting for them the entire time. I loved every page with Kai on it and waited for him to make an appearance (I just wish he would have made an appearance earlier in the novel). Kai is... I mean, just WOW! Definitely a vote over the "what's his face" from Cinderella. Does he even have a name or is he just Prince Charming? Dumb.
Anyway, I digress — I think my favorite part of this story falls to the android, Iko. As I mentioned on Twitter, I really wish I had an android that was an R2D2/Iko cross. My life would be an endless conversation full of cleverness. Do you think I could train my iPhone to be an android?
Anyway, "Cinder" is a definite must read the first week of January before school is in full swing. I absolutely adored it's plot and characters. I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with.*
* You know, unless you were born after 2000 If you're interested, Barnes and Noble has the first five chapters available for a free download.
-Visit Marissa around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter -BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook
"I can't wait to bring both of these books into my classroom for my students." — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other. Now, in Linger, they must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping a very dangerous secret about her own well-being. For Sam, this means grappling with his werewolf past... and figuring out a way to survive into the future. Add into the mix a new wolf named Cole, whose own past has the potential to destroy the whole pack. And Isabelle, who already lost her brother to the wolves... and is nonetheless drawn to Cole.At turns harrowing and euphoric, Linger is a spellbinding love story that explores both sides of love — the light and the dark, the warm and the cold — in a way you will never forget."
Why I read this: I adored Shiver and couldn't wait to see what happened next for Sam and Grace.
Plot: The plot wasn't was fast-paced and captivating as Shiver, but it held my attention enough. I felt like it was very repetitive in regards to Grace and Cole's conditions — it could have moved a bit faster. Once I realized where Cole's plot line came in I liked it, but until that moment towards the last few chapters of the book I didn't know what to expect with Cole and felt like he was kind of taking of space.
Characters: The characters are what made this book. I adore the relationship between Sam and Grace and I loved the how Cole described their relationship. Hearing someone else's description of the two love-birds made me want an outsider to describe my own relationship simply because "I want that." Weird, isn't it? I really loved getting to know Isabel better. She's so tortured — I love it! (Is that weird?)
Relatability: I am not in love with a werewolf and have no intention of being bitten by and becoming a werewolf myself. But I could relate to Sam and Grace's feelings for each other. There's a line where Sam describes seeing her for the first time in a long time and he says (something around the lines of) — I miss her more now that she's here beside me. At first that line was confusing, but then I realized that when you're really in love it's not that "you don't know what you have until it's gone," painfully you know exactly what you have when you have it and you're afraid to lose it.
Cover: I ADORE the covers of both Shiver and Linger.
Random Thoughts: In both Shiver and Linger I really disliked all the lyrics. But maybe if I were a teenager again I'd see the appeal to the emotional tortured soul. I also really REALLY dislike Grace's parents — UGH!
Final Thoughts: I can't wait to bring both of these books into my classroom for my students. Highly recommended!
Hosted by Sheila — Thank you! Last week was probably my most productive in a long time! I finished "Crossed" by Ally Condie, "Silence" by Becca Fitzpatrick, and "Replication: The Jason Experiment" by Jill Williamson! I'm feeling on fire!:) This week I'd like to finished "Cinder" by Marissa Meyer and "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern.
"Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl... .
Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future."
"The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.
But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.
True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus per formers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead. "
Hosted by Sheila — Thank you! Last week I did finish "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern but I didn't end of up finishing "Cinder." So, my goal for this week is to finish "Cinder" by Marissa Meyer.
"Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl... . Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future."
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