Nette's Bookshelf Reviews

ARC Review: The Butler Did It by Kate Deveaux

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Title: The Butler Did It
Author: Kate Deveaux
Publisher: Total E-bound Publishing (7.26.13)
Genre: Erotic Romance

About The Book

Vi Martin, successful multi-millionaire businesswoman, is in for a surprise when the domestic agency sends her a new butler for her swanky Miami penthouse. Drop dead gorgeous Clarkson Dale is the consummate professional butler…until he meets his new employer. The sparks fly and their attraction is undeniable when they break all the rules. She knows it’s wrong to have sex with the hired help but the woman is used to getting what she wants and she can’t resist temptation.

Clarkson is conflicted by his professional role and his flagrant attraction to Vi. They strike a compromise, work is work and play is play. Strictly professional by day and all bets are off at night when they explore their fantasies. Vi likes it when a man takes control and she’s open to new experiences. Clarkson has just the man for the job. Michel, Vi’s personal chef, has other talents, and joins Clarkson and Vi in exploring her deeper sexual tastes. Clarkson takes control of a night of passion and guides Michel on how to properly pleasure their employer. Michel has no problem rising to the occasion.

Reader Advisory: This story has been previously released as part of the At Your Service anthology by Total-E-Bound

My Review

The Butler Did It by Kate Deveaux is one sinfully sexy read! It's a short story but it packs a powerfully sizzling and tantalizing punch. Miss Vi, our main female character is successful, rich and she always gets what she wants. And what she wants at the moment is Clarkson, her newly hired butler. Upon first glance it seems he wants her too, as Clarkson is a man who always gets what he wants as well. The attraction from both sides is evident right away and things get hot and steamy instantly.

I liked this aspect of both characters, while Clarkson's persona isn't expounded upon too heavily, it's clear that he's 1.) hot as hades and 2.) knows what he's working with and ain't afraid to use it! This fact made for a satisfying discovery of characters, there was no power struggle between these two even though they both exude power and confidence. I must add it was nice to see a strong female lead who knows what she wants sexually and isn't afraid to admit it or act on it. I also relished in the fact that in this story it's the woman who is obscenely rich and is able to navigate her way through the male dominated world of business and money. Being that it's a short story, there isn't much in the way of character development but this small fact doesn't hinder or slow down the flow of the story one bit. I believe if Kate Deveaux were to continue on with this story it would be crazy good, and I hope she does! I'd love to see how the relationship development between these two plays out, given they're personalities I bet it'd be one hell of a ride!

I enjoyed this hot and steamy read. Just make sure you read this when the kids are in bed because it's sure the ignite your wanton desire!

Bookshelf Rating:

That First Kiss by J.C. Valentine release day event and giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:00:00 +0000

It's a great week at Nette's Bookshelf Reviews! I'm happy to be a part of the release day event for That First Kiss by J.C Valentine. Steamy & Sexy? Yes Please!!

Title: That First Kiss (Night calls #2)

Author: J.C. Valentine

Genre: Erotic Romance

Publisher: J.C. Valentine (6.18.13)

About the Book

Mercurial and charming, Tate Larson is a rising author and playboy who has a different woman on his arm every night of the week. Focused on his work, Tate has no plans to settle down any time soon. That is until he meets his pretty new assistant, Piper Donovan.

Desperate to escape the promise of backwater living, Piper ditched her Alabama hometown and never looked back. That was almost two years ago. Now that she is out of a job and her bank account is running on fumes, she’s desperate to find a job, fast. She finds the break she is searching for when she lands a position at Bookish Temptations. A little dancing and a lot of drinks with the girls seem the perfect way to celebrate. After a brief but explosive encounter with a man she was never supposed to see again turns out to be the same man she will be bending over backwards to please, her every instinct tells her to run. But when running means leaving the life she has struggled so hard to create, Piper decides her only option is to continue working for the devastatingly sexy Tate Larson...even if it kills her.

Unable to deny their growing attraction, they struggle to keep their distance in a relationship that requires anything but.

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Connect with J.C. Valentine

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Review: Sunshine by Nikki Rae

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle Ramos) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Title: Sunshine
Author: Nikki Rae
Publisher: Nikki Rea (1.28.13)
Genre: Fictioin

About The Book

18 year old Sophie Jean is pretty good at acting normal. Sure, she’s not exactly happy, but happiness is nothing compared to being like everyone else. She can pretend she’s not allergic to the sun. She can hide what her ex-boyfriend did to her. She can cover up the scars she’s made for herself. Ignore anything. Forget anything. Then Myles enters her life, and he has more than a few secrets of his own. When accident after accident keeps happening to Sophie, she can’t help noticing that he’s everywhere. That he knows too much. That she’s remembering too much.

It’s one thing covering up her own dark past, but does she really need to worry about people finding out just how much Myles likes her? Or that despite how much she doesn’t want to repeat past mistakes, she kind of likes him back? Not to mention the fact that she now has to conceal that Myles drinks blood-that he says he’s about four hundred years old.

She almost forgot about that part.

But Sophie has no plans to ruin the normal life she has created for herself. She can deal with this little glitch, no problem. Even if word has gotten around to the wrong vampire about Sophie and Myles, even if she’s putting the few people she loves at risk. Suddenly, those who were monsters before are just people, and the monsters? They’re real. Now being a normal human being is the least of her problems. Now she has to stay alive.

Michelle's Review

I've had a difficult time trying to decide if I liked Sunshine by Nikki Rae. Sophie has a sun allergy that sets her apart. She has few people she can rely on in her life and a mother who seems to hate her. When Myles comes into her life, her life is complicated in ways that quickly put her in danger. Will Sophie confront her fears and follow her heart?

Over the last few years, female readers have rejoiced in the new wave of strong female book leads. So long, whimpering Bella of Twilight; hello, kick-butt Catniss of Hunger Games! Sophie, the main character in Sunshine, is neither Bella, nor Catniss, and I was left undecided if that made her more or less relatable as a character for teenage girls.

Sophie is quite a lot of posturing, to the point of cliché: She listens to music only the truly, secretly cool would love; she loves only the truly cult-fave movies; she wears a lot of eyeliner; she writes beautiful music. But she's really not very tough, physically or emotionally. Sophie's sun allergy sets her apart as an outcast and, for the most part, she embraces that label, or wants us to think she does. But Sophie isn't strong enough to truly not care what people think or say to her. What bothered me about Sophie as a character is that she is so quick to fall apart, and it seemed to have little to do with her physical ailment. When she's upset or stressed, she's liable to A) throw up or B) pass out. Sophie vomits so often, I kept waiting for it to be revealed that she had an eating disorder. When it wasn't, I was left asking, "So what the heck is wrong with her? Does she have an ulcer, too?"

Sophie's many weaknesses aside, I struggled with the plot. The book starts with Sophie being forced to see a mad scientist-type doctor who believes he can help her illness. This plot line is dropped pretty quickly. After Sophie meets Myles and her life is endangered, the person coming after her gives the reason that she is "not natural." I thought this would lead to a big reveal that Sophie is an incomplete supernatural--She was meant to be a vampire! That's why she has the sun allergy!--but nope, Sophie is simply being victimized and her sun allergy is part of the reason. There are several plot points like that, including the shadowy father she can't remember. The point is made several times but it either goes nowhere in the plot or the reader isn't given a resolution. If the reader is being set up for a sequel, I would guess half the readers won't care enough about Sophie and Myles to read another book to find out what happens next.

I struggled to get into this book at first but it did pick up about a third of the way through. Once it hooked my interest, I was eager to keep reading, but, in the end, I was left unsatisfied; unsatisfied with the love story, unsatisfied with Sophie, unsatisfied with where the story might have gone instead. I typically love or hate a book. It isn't often a book leaves me feeling indifferently to its characters and plot, but that's exactly how I left Sunshine, not caring very much what happens next.

Rating:

Coffee Shop Talks #7: Is the market being flooded with NA books?

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 06:04:00 +0000

Happy Monday! What a great day it's been too, even though I'm totally late in putting this out! You know what time it is though?! It's time for Coffee Shop Talks, where me and my blog mates get together and dish about all things bookish. In case you don't know who hosts this meme with me, the awesome dolls are Danielle @ Coffee & Characters, Traci @ Mad Hatter Reads and Cat & Jamie @ Addicted to Heroines. Get your coffee, pull up a chair and let's talk!

This Week's Topic:

The market is being flooded with books in the New Adult sub genre. What makes these books so appealing? How do you pick and chose which ones to read and which ones to skip?

This is a wonderful topic! lately I've been feeling like there are tons of NA books out there and I'm kinda getting burned out on them. I think "flooded" is totally appropriate for describing what is happening in this sub-genre. I think what makes these books so appealing is the sex, to be honest and blunt. It's a little bit of YA in that there's a lot of angst & build up and it's adult because of all the sex that happens in these stories. It's not my favorite genre to read, although I've been reading quite a few of these books lately. I think my very first NA book was Beautiful Disaster by Jamie Mcguire, at the time I wasn't aware it was NA and I don't think it would have mattered anyway--I still feel hard for this book! Oddly, there wasn't a lot of sex in it, if I'm recalling correctly. Anyway, once I learned about this sub-genre that is NA, I was somewhat confused. Why not just call it contemporary romance? or just plain "romance?" I didn't realize age dictated genres.

Anyway, I tend to pick my NA books according to the buzz that's generated around said book. I don't have the time these days to really research every book with a pretty cover on Goodreads so if I see other people talking about it, I'll pick it up. Sure, I'll skim the reviews but honestly if it's 4 star or above rated with a nice looking cover, I'm apt to read it...or at least add to the plethora of books on my Kindle! But, as I said earlier, I'm getting burned out on these NA books--it seems the stories are pretty much the same only with different characters and settings. So I'm going back to PNR, where I started from! I blame it on FSOG for derailing me from my paranormal romance genre. Damn you Christian Grey!! LoL

Some of my favorite NA reads

So why do you think the NA genre is so appealing and how do you pick your books?

Don't forget to visit my girls and get in on the discussion!

NBE Week 3 Featured Author: Gena Showalter with William and Strider!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000

EEP!!! I HAD to save this one for today because today is my birthday. Yes, my actual birthday! And what a happy birthday to me it is since I'm featuring one of my all time favorite authors and two of my favorite characters from the LOTU series! William and Strider have stopped by with a very special excerpt made just for me..ok, so it wasn't made just for me but it is an exclusive and I hope you enjoy it! *sigh* I heart Strider. But don't tell Kaia, I'd like to live to see another day! LoL

Strider: DUDE
William: I know. Disaster has finally flipped his lid
Strider: Try 2 talk him in2 stayin w/us
William: Did. Epic fail
Strider: When you say “did” do U mean “didn’t”
William: U know me so well
Strider: F-U.
William: Why don’t U try 2 talk 2 him?? by U I mean U

Strider: I like my balls where they R, thanks tho
William: If he leaves fortress 2 find this chick, he’s gonna get shanked—NOT in good way
Strider: There’s a good way?
William: Hells yeah. There was this one time, at band camp…
Strider: Blow me.
William: Told U be4 UR not hot ‘nuff 4 me.
Strider: Please. U want a piece of me SO bad
William: I’ve seen better
Strider: LIES! No one’s seen better. So what R we gonna do about Kane?
William: I’m sick & tired of looking this good AND saving the day. But fine. Whateves. I’ll go w/him & make sure chick’s not cray-cray. But U’ll owe me SO BIG
Strider: UR all heart—such a giver. I’d go but the old ball & chain has
Strider: I’d go but MY WONDERFUL GLORIOUS CONSORT HAS GENTLY REQUESTED THAT I STAY AND HELP WITH A VERY IMPORTANT TASK
William: UR wonderful glorious consort just stole UR phone, didn’t she?
Strider: Hello, Willy
William: Hello, Kaia. Tell the Stride-Man not 2 worry—I’m on the case
Strider: Poor Kane. Poor world
William: Well, look @ that. U know me as well as the Stride-Man. Save a kiss 4 me. I like a lot of tongue.
Strider: What U’ll get is a lot of fang—across UR carotid
William: Don’t you dare save a kiss 4 me. How does Strider live w/U?
Strider: Easy. He’d die w/out me
William: That kinda sick obsession is NEVER happening 2 me! Willy signing off.

Don't you just LOVE those two?!

Lords of the Underworld

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Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty books in paranormal and contemporary romances, as well as young adult novels. Her series include White Rabbit Chronicles, Angels of the Dark, Otherworld Assassins, Lords of the Underworld, Alien Huntress and Intertwined.

Her novels have appeared in Cosmopolitan Magazine, and Seventeen Magazine, and have been translated all over the world. The critics have called her books "sizzling page-turners" and "utterly spellbinding stories", while Showalter herself has been called “a star on the rise”.

Connect With Gena

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

A HUGE Thank You to Gena Showalter for being awesome and supporting my event. This is why I love her people!! =)) She truly made my bday very special.

Get your one-click on! Discover new authors and books with my Sunday editon of SALE books

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 06:56:00 +0000

*Prices subject to change without notice. Happy one-clicking =)

Cross the Ocean by Holly Bush Spotlight and first chapter

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:00:00 +0000

We finally made it to Friday! I'm happy to close out the week with Holly Bush and her latest release Cross the Ocean. She's graciously given us a sneak peek into the book with a read of the 1st chapter. I'm a big fan of Holly Bush and her historical romance books. I was first introduced to her work when I reviewed Train Station Bride and it was insta-love for sure and I have no doubt Cross the Ocean will be anything less than awesome. Enjoy the first chapter and definitely add this book to your TBR list, and if you haven't yet experienced historical romance you'll definitely want to have your first with Holly Bush =)

Title: Cross The Ocean

Author: Holly Bush

Publisher: New Concepts Publishing

Genre: Historical Romance

About The Book

1871 . . . Worlds collide when American Suffragist, Gertrude Finch, and titled Brit Blake Sanders meet in an explosive encounter that may forever bind them together. Gertrude Finch escorts a young relative to London and encounters the stuffy Duke of Wexford at his worst. Cross the Ocean is the story of an undesired, yet undeniable attraction that takes Blake and Gertrude across an ocean and into each other’s arms.

Chapter 1 Preview

Chapter One

London 1871

“Pardon me?”

The starch in Mrs. Wickham’s black dress seemed to wilt as she quivered. The soft folds of her jowls shook. “The Duchess is not coming down, Your Grace,” she repeated.

The Duke of Wexford stood stock-still. The guests were to descend on his ancestral home in a matter of moments. The candles lit, the buffet laid, the flowers had bloomed on cue. The last remaining detail was the receiving line.

“Mrs. Wickham. There is a small matter of greeting two hundred and fifty guests arriving momentarily. The Duchess needs to attend them,” Blake Sanders, the Eighth Duke of Wexford, said sternly to his housekeeper.

When the woman had announced his wife would not be joining him, Sanders was certain he had not heard correctly. The Duchess knew her duties, as did he. He turned abruptly to the staircase and stopped as a shiver trailed down his arms. He turned back. The rotund woman had not moved other than the flitting of small hairs peeking out of her mobcap. After twenty-five years of service to his family, he supposed she stood rooted for good reason.

The Duke spoke quietly. “Is there a problem conveying this message, Mrs. Wickham?”

The woman swallowed. “Yes, Your Grace. There is.”

“What is it, Mrs. Wickham?” he asked.

It was then he noticed a folded piece of paper in the woman’s hand. As with most lifetime retainers, he had seen worry, seen anger and joy in her face. But never fear. And it was fear indeed that hung in the air, widened her eyes and had the missive shaking in pudgy fingers.

A lifetime later, in his memory, he would envision the slow transfer of this note as it made its way from her hand to his. The moments stretched out when life was sure – before he read it. With the reading, life changed, flopped perversely like some great beached sea turtle. So memory or God or mind’s protection lengthened the seconds until he read.

In the present, he snatched the note, unfolded it and recognized his wife’s script. He dared not glance at the still-present servant. Blake Sanders read to the final line, folded the paper neatly and met Mrs. Wickham’s eyes. Had he been six, he may have hurled himself in the great black comfort of her skirts. But he was not a boy.

“The contents of this note, I gather, you read?” he asked.

The mobcap nodded. “Twas open and lying on Your Grace’s pillow.”

“Very well,” he replied and stared at the ornate wall sconce and the shadows the candles threw. The butler’s distant voice broke through his emotional haze. He knew he must ready himself for the onslaught of guests but not before he made clear his wishes with Mrs. Wickham.

“We must be certain the Duchess is left alone with such a malady.” His eyes met hers with a dark intensity. “You will be the only one in her attendance tonight.”

“Yes, Your Grace.” The housekeeper nodded to leave and turned back with tears in her great gray eyes. “The children, Your Grace? What if . . .?”

“I will handle the children tonight, Mrs. Wickham,” he answered.

She nodded and hurried away.

The composure he had been born with, cultivated, and that now ruled his life, wavered as he slowly made his way down the staircase to his butler. Briggs stood sentry near the newel post as he had done for as long as anyone could remember.

“The guests are arriving, sir,” the butler said.

“The Duchess is unwell, Briggs. Lady Melinda will stand attendance beside me.” “Very good, Your Grace,” Briggs replied.

Somehow Blake found himself between his children in the receiving line. On his left stood his seventeen-year old daughter, Melinda. Fifteen-year-old, William, the heir to the title, was to his right. Donald, the youngest, was certainly fighting his nursemaid to escape and peek through the balustrade at the splendor of the upcoming ball.

“Where is Mama?” Melinda asked softly.

“Terrible headache, sweetheart. She needs to stay abed,” he said and made yet another crisp bow. Melinda would make her come-out in a few short months, but she had not as of yet. Blake had made the decision to have her play hostess in an instant, not knowing what else to do. “You are doing beautifully in her absence.”

Between greeting the next guests Melinda whispered to her father, “I’ll go to her as soon as I can. You know how . . .”

“No,” he shouted, startling guests in line and his daughter. Her look of shame and surprise shook him. His menacing gaze softened as he turned to her. “I didn’t mean to snap, my dear.”

Melinda’s lip trembled until an aging matron shouted in her ear. She turned a practiced, polite face the dowager’s way.

Moments in every life indelibly etch in the mind. The birth of a child. A father’s grudging respect seen in a wrinkled face. The first time love is visible in a woman’s eye. But that evening and all its details were a blurry mass of glad tidings and lies. Conversations muted amongst his thoughts leaving his mind only capable of a nod or the shake of his head. One stark moment glared. Blake’s longtime friend and neighbor, Anthony Burroughs, looked at him quizzically as he repeated his wife’s excuse. The man’s eyes bored into his, and Blake nearly spilled the details of his dilemma in the midst of the glowing ballroom. He shuttered his feelings quickly, but he knew Anthony was not fooled.

William and Melinda were so exhausted by night’s end that he had no trouble convincing them to wait to the following morning to regale their mother with the evening’s excitement. For himself, he could have cried for joy when the last guest left at nearly four in the morning. He sent his valet to bed, untied his neck cloth and slumped into the dark green damask chair in front of a wilting fire.

He would be a laughingstock. The Wexfords took their pride seriously today in 1871 the same as they had in 1471. The current Duke of Wexford had spent his entire life guarding against any impropriety that might sully that pride or good name. Married at twenty-four by decree of his father to Lady Ann Murrow, and a beautiful fair child, Melinda, was born nine months to the day from the date of his wedding. The heir, William, two years later with the spare, Donald, arriving seven years ago.

Blake did not over indulge at the game tables or with drink. He kept a trim figure, and while not vain, was never seen without proper attire. His estates were in order; he treated his servants fairly and generously and reaped the profits hence.

My life has been a model to the English aristocracy, Blake thought. Until now. He withdrew the letter from his pocket and read again, that which his eyes saw but what his mind refused to believe. “I’m leaving you ...” What in his life had he done or not done to deserve such treatment, especially from his wife, the mother of his children? The Duchess of Wexford for God’s sake, he railed silently. He continued reading. “He’s a well-to-do merchant...” Not even a peer of the realm.

Would Ann stop at nothing to humiliate him? How would he show his face in town? The English peerage took delight and excruciating pains to reveal or revel in another’s debacle or misfortune. They tittered about the smallest transgression – a loss at the game table, a stolen kiss exposed before the banns were posted. He would be branded, bandied about, laughed at behind his back until his last breath and beyond.

Blake wondered that when the Earl of Wendover heard this story, he would withdraw the arrangement for Melinda to marry his son. Blake had not told Melinda of the agreement because he had wanted her to enjoy her come-out without a cradle betrothal to dampen her spirit. Let her dance and meet young people and then tell her about the long ago made plans. But Blake admitted to himself there may be no triumphant union of two of England’s oldest families after the Duchess’s betrayal became public.

The sun was peaking over rolling hills he saw as he gazed idly out the window of his bedchamber. How would he tell his children? When their nursemaid had died, he had gone off to town rather than deal with their tears. Let their mother handle these things. But there was no mother. The scheming wench had gone off and left her own children without a word.

There was a horse at Tattersall’s he’d been eyeing. Blake wondered if he should go now before everyone knew of this scandal and he’d be forced to deal with the ton’s whispers and stares. I’ll deal with the children first. I must. It’s my duty. He rang for his valet and wondered if Mrs. Wickham would be the better person to explain things. The housekeeper was a soft soul, and the children adored her.

Benson helped him bathe and dress, and he sat down bleary-eyed at the breakfast table. His morning regimen was placed in front of him as he was seated with a footman’s help. Blake was suddenly so angry, so horrified, at the situation he found himself in, he merely stared at his oatmeal. Tea was being poured on his right. The morning paper carefully folded to the business section on his left. All seemed the same, should be the same. But it wasn’t. Ann would not glide down the stairs this morning. She would not inquire politely how he had slept. She would not explain her plans with the dressmaker or morning calls. As if he’d cared. But even still . . . it wouldn’t be the same. He would not kiss her cheek and tell her she looked lovely with his dismissal.

Connect With Holly

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Book Spotlight and Giveaway | Renhala by Amy Joy Lutchen

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:00:00 +0000

RENHALA
BY AMY JOY LUTCHEN
Genre: Urban Fantasy
ISBN: 9780988281509ebook, 406 pages

Buy Renhala on Amazon
Buy Renhala on Barnes & Noble

About The Book

Kailey Rooke, timid accountant, dedicated to philanthropic work, finds herself spiraling into a deep depression after she suffers a horrifyingly odd and humiliating assault, to only discover more of these freakish assaults occurring across the globe.

A chance discovery leads Kailey to a meeting with elderly Gunthreon, actual master of persuasion. Gunthreon, who seems to know too much of Kailey's history for her liking, opens Kailey's eyes to a coexisting realm she never knew existed: Renhala, while entrusting her with the knowledge of her newfound power as karmelean, serving as a beacon to the Higher Ones. Kailey slowly starts revealing new talents, and Gunthreon is fascinated with what she starts achieving.

She soon discovers that Renhala is in danger, and this danger has been leaking into her own realm. As she uncovers secrets within herself, and attempts to toughen up, she fuses with an unlikely band of fellow travelers (including a dragon, woodsprite, six-hundred-pound greble, her faithful female canine companion, and a "giver"), falls into an unexpected love triangle, deals with her sexy and flirtatious best friend’s “issues,” and finds the courage to master a new deadly weapon.

On her mission to save Renhala, Kailey will find herself running from life-threatening disasters, such as greble Tartarin, who likes to remind Kailey that when he catches her, he plans on eating her brains with ice cream; she'll run from the deadly meeples: small cute bunnies with talons and an undeniable thirst for imposing self-destruction on others. Kailey will also run into the possibility that a centuries-old Renhalan rumor is true, that advanced technology existing in Kailey's realm shortens all life spans.

As blood is shed and puzzles near completion, Kailey pulls from deep within herself, conjuring up mystical qualities that enable her to astonish as once predicted at her birth, but despite the newfound strength, Kailey will discover that monsters not only come in ugly packages, but can be easily disguised as those she has come to love and trust.

Follow the tour HERE

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Connect With Amy

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Was born in Chicago and slept in a dresser drawer for the first few weeks of my life, marking me as a future claustrophobe.

I studied at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana (man I grew up quick), where I became a number, but decided it was a good number.

I write with plenty of snacks in hand, making sure they are not in multiples of three. That number makes me nervous.Author of the Renhala series.

Promo Post: Ocean Breeze Series by Sherryl Woods

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000

I'm happy to bring you guys a promo post for Sherryl Wood's Ocean Breeze series. Highly acclaimed NYT & USA Today bestseller, The Ocean Breeze series is sure to appeal to those who enjoy reading adult-centric, heartfelt, emotionally charged stories. This is a series that's sure to be a great way to kick-off your summer reading. Check out the books and DO add them to your TBR lists. The publisher is offering the chance for TWO winners to win ALL THREE books in the series!

About The Series

Sand Castle Bay kicks off the series by introducing readers to the youngest sister, Emily Castle, an ambitious interior designer who is torn between her successful career on the west coast and her old love. Boone Dorsett might be the sexiest man living along the North Carolina coast, but when Emily is offered an exciting career opportunity, she finds herself in an all too familiar quandary.

Readers follow the whirlwind of Emily’s life in the second book —Wind Chime Point while meeting the middle sister, Gabriella Castle, who is pregnant and unemployed. To help put the pieces of her life back together, Gabriella, a career-driven PR maven, returns home to the North Carolina coast where family friend, Wade Johnson, is determined to woo and win her — even though she carries another man’s child. The trilogy concludes with the June release of Sea Glass Island. Under summer skies, New York Times bestselling author Sherryl Woods evokes family, friendship and heartfelt emotion With her two younger sisters heading for the altar, will Samantha Castle exchange old dreams for new ones? Lately she'd rather be on the North Carolina coast with family than in New York with agents and actors. Though she vows not to let her teenage crush on Ethan Cole influence her decision, it's hard to ignore her feelings for the local war hero. Ethan lost more than his leg in Afghanistan. He lost his belief in love. Even being surrounded by couples intent on capturing happily-ever-after won't open this jaded doctor's heart. It's going to take a sexy, determined woman—one who won't take no for an answer.

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Connect with Sherryl

Website | Facebook | Goodreads

Thank you Harlequin for hosting the giveaway.

Cover Reveal: Very Bad Things by Ilsa Madden-Mills

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Title: Very Bad Things (#1 Briarcrest Academy)

Author: Ilsa Madden-Mills

Expected release date: September 10, 2013

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Age Group: New Adult

Cover designed by: Toski Covey Photography and Sommer Stein from Perfect Pear

Cover reveal organized by: AToMR Tours

Book Description:

Born into a life of privilege and secrets, Nora Blakely has everything any nineteen year old girl could desire. She’s an accomplished pianist, a Texas beauty queen, and on her way to Princeton after high school. She’s perfect…or is she?

Leaving behind her million dollar mansion and Jimmy Choo’s, she becomes a girl hell-bent on pushing the limits with alcohol, drugs, and meaningless sex.

Then she meets her soulmate. But he doesn’t want her.

When it comes to girls, twenty-five year old Leo Tate has one rule: never fall in love. His gym and his brother are all he cares about…until he meets Nora and realizes he is not the master of his own fate. He resists the pull of their attraction, hung up on their six year age difference.

As they struggle to stay away from each other…secrets will be revealed, tempers will flare, and hearts will be broken.

Welcome to Briarcrest Academy…where sometimes, the best things in life are Very Bad Things.

About the Author

Ilsa wrote her first work at the age of twelve when she penned a little ditty about a handsome prince who had no sense. Since then, she’s written plays, poems, and numerous short stories. Very Bad Things is her first full-length novel and part of a new series called Briarcrest Academy.

She graduated summa cum laude with a master’s in English from an esteemed university in the South, where she now resides. After graduation, she taught writing courses, directed plays, worked with autistic children, helped start a children’s clothing company, and eventually had a family. Now, she spends her days with two small kids and her Viking husband. When she’s not typing away at a story, you can find her drinking too much coffee, jamming out to Pink, or checking on her carefully maintained chocolate stash. She loves to hear from fans and fellow avid readers. You can find her on Facebook and a soon to come author website.

Cover Reveal: Being Kalli by Rebecca Berto

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 06:00:00 +0000

It's a cover reveal! I'm very excited to share with you guys the cover for Rebecca Berto's latest novel Being Kalli. She's a doll and I'm sure the cover is going to be as awesome as she is! So here it is, the cover for Being Kalli.

Being Kalli by Rebecca Berto
Publication date: TBA
Genre: NA Contemporary Romance

Book Info

There are two things you should know about Kalli Perkins.

1. She’d rather do it in public than be alone with a guy.

2. She loves her little brothers more than her mom does.

Kalli doesn’t pretend to be a good girl. At nineteen, she’s never been in love and doesn’t ever intend to be. She has her issues handled. She’s managed to keep the secret of what happened to her nine years ago from her mother, although her mother’s usually high anyway and barely notices Kalli or her little brothers.

One night at a party, Kalli makes a bet with her friend, Nate, that could change everything. Their friend, Scout, tells them there’s no uncrossing the friendship line once it’s crossed—even though they were both drunk. But Kalli can’t imagine how anyone could want her damaged self for anything more.

She didn’t count on Nate. Nate’s very capable of satisfying her not only under her clothes, but in her heart, too.

She just doesn’t know it yet.

AUTHOR BIO

Rebecca Berto is a new adult contemporary romance author. She is also a freelance editor.

She writes stories that are a bit sexy, and straddle the line between Literary and Tear Your Heart Out. She gets a thrill when her readers are emotional reading her stories, and gets even more of a kick when they tell her so. She’s strangely imaginative, spends too much time on her computer, and is certifiably crazy when she works on her fiction.

Rebecca Berto lives in Melbourne, Australia with her boyfriend and their doggy.

Author Links:

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

Nette's Blogoversary Event Week 2: Interview with A.L Jackson and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:00:00 +0000

It's the second week of my celebration and I'm excited to feature A.L Jackson! She became an insta-love author for me after I read When We Collide. She has this ability to blend the dark with light and create hauntingly beautiful stories with happily-ever-afters. I was so ecstatic that she made time for me and allowed me to pick her brain! I hope you enjoy our interview =)

Hi Amy! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions. I’m a HUGE fan of your work and I’m absolutely stoked to feature you this week!

Thank you, Nette! I’m excited to be here!

Nette: Ok, so first things first. Tell us about yourself. Why did you start writing, what did you do before you became a writer?

A.L: Well, let’s see, about me... I’m A.L. Jackson, or Amy, and I’m the author of Pulled, Take This Regret, When We Collide, and Lost to You. I’m the proud momma of three babies (who aren’t quite babies anymore) and am still absolutely in love with my husband who I married 14 years ago.

Hmm, why did I start writing? I think I’ve always really enjoyed writing, but it started out more as writing poetry when I was in college. It was mostly just gibberish I scribbled down about something I was feeling the day. But as I got busy with marriage and kids and starting a business, writing became something I didn’t really do anymore. It wasn’t until my kids were a little older that I again started reading a lot. It really sparked that creative bug in me, and the storyline for Pulled came to my head.

Before I was a writer, I ran a transcription and medical editing business.

Nette: Your books have a way of bringing out the ugly cry in me! No really, I’ve never come across an author who is able to evoke such emotion in me to the point that I have to remind myself that these characters, the story isn’t “real.” What inspires you to create your characters and write their stories?

A.L: I’m not quite sure why such emotional stories flow from me...but I think a lot of it is exactly how you describe it, you have to remind yourself that these characters aren’t real. When I write, my characters become real to me and I really want to know exactly what they’re feeling and thinking at each moment. I like to bring them close so my readers experience exactly what the characters experience.

As far as inspiration, I was a very young mother, so I’ve drawn a lot from the fears and joys I felt during that time, which is one of the reasons my stories tend to have young mothers.

Nette: This is a question I ask every author because it’s intriguing to me to hear their response. :-) Ok, here goes. Where is the oddest place your inspiration or muse has come to you?

A.L: LOL...always in the shower!! I swear, I can be completely stuck, frustrated, banging my head in my office, and then I go and take a hot shower, and bam, exactly what I was grasping for finally comes to mind. Something about the quiet with the rush of hot water just unlocks the story.

Nette: Do you have any quirks, rituals, practices you perform before heading into the “writing cave?” (i.e special sweater or a pair of socks you wear, or a certain mug etc.)

No, but I’m searching for the magic ;) I’ll you know if I find something that works.

Nette: So you’ve got some big things happening in the near future! Congrats, by the way. I’m so excited for you! Tell us how your experience has been starting as an Indie author to becoming a NYT best-seller.

A.L: Thank you so much, Nette. Honestly, the whole thing has been mind-blowing. I started off thinking nothing would ever come of my writing and viewed it as a hobby. But as I wrote my first book, I realized how much I loved it, and there was this gradual hope that I could do this for a living. But I never even began to think things could possibly turn out the way they have. I worked very hard, shed a ton of tears, worried until I couldn’t sleep. Then I just thanked God when I saw all of this coming together.

But in the end? I realized readers discovered my books because of the bloggers who reviewed them. I can’t say how thankful I am for that.

Nette: Of all the books you’ve written, which one do you hold nearest & dearest and why?

A.L: When We Collide. That book broke my heart because I found so many similarities in some of the people I love most when compared with Maggie’s life.

Nette: Have you ever considered writing outside of contemporary romance?

A.L: A few years ago I started a paranormal romance series that I shelved. I would seriously like to dust that off once I meet some of these other writing obligations. It’s a bit different than the typical paranormal romance, since, like all my stories, it is emotionally driven. Another genre that I love to read but would fear my style is too emotional is the thriller/suspense genre. I probably couldn’t go straight thriller, but I could definitely see myself writing a series of romantic suspenses. hmmmm.....

Nette: As a reader, I’m curious to know what my favorite authors like to read. So I have to ask, who are some of your “go-to” authors or favorite books? Any books you’ve re-read because you love them so much.

A.L: Oh gosh...this is hard because there are so many greats out there. Books I’ve reread multiple times? The Twilight Saga. Not ashamed to admit it. There was just something about that story that stole my breath.

Current books that I love? Hopeless by Colleen Hoover was outstanding. That book made me feel every level of emotion, which is hard to do for me. I also love Molly McAdams books. They have a very emotional quality to them, very much in the same way I like to write.

Nette: Do you have any WIP that you’re able to share with us??

A.L: I do...I have two in the works. First is the Take This Regret sequel, If Forever Comes, which is tentatively scheduled for release in September. Oh my goodness, Christian...I’d always thought his and Elizabeth’s story would be completely told in Take This Regret. I’m so thankful I received so many messages from readers asking me for more from them, because after writing Lost to You, I realized there was so much more to their story.

I’m also working on Come To Me Quietly, which will be my first traditionally published book, and is set for release on January 7, 2014! (Did I mention how excited I am over this?) I can’t even wait for this book...writing it has been a whole new experience. It’s altogether heartbreaking, but somehow lighter and sexier.

Nette: I personally feel that some books are better left as books, but it seems to be a trend these days to have books converted for Hollywood. What are your thoughts on books being made into movies or T.V. shows? Do you feel [when a book gets made into film or t.v. show] that’s the highest level of achievement as an author?

A.L: For me, I tend to think the same thing, some books are just better left as books, while others make a really good fit for a movie if the movie is well done. What I hate is when a movie is thrown together to ride on the success of a book...it’s usually really obvious and doesn’t capture the heart of the book. Personally, I’d be excited if one of my books were made into a movie...it would just be cool to see it expressed through someone else’s eyes...although I’m sure I would be terrified of the end result LOL.

But I think the highest level of achievement is all relative and what authors view for themselves

Quick fire questions:

Coffee or Tea?
COFFEE!!!!!

all time favorite movie?

Big Fish. Or Little Miss Sunshine. Or Up ... LOL

favorite color?
Blue

Who is your favorite male character from your books? It can only be one!

Ahhh....okay okay. Jared. The boy is just hot.

What type of music do you listen to?
I like my music hard. Screaming, tattooed boys? Yes please.

Great answer! I like my music much the same...just like my boys! Hehe

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Coffee Shop Talks #6 We're talking book boyfriends ladies!!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 06:30:00 +0000

It's that time again! It's Coffee Shop Talks hosted by myself, Danielle @ Coffee & Characters, Cat & Jamie @ Addicted 2Heroines and Traci @ Mad Hatter Reads. It's our weekly meme where my girls and I chat about all things bookish. Today I'm super excited to talk about book boyfriends. *Squee* I get to post pics of hot boys! So grab your cup of coffee and pull up a chair cuz it's gettin hot in here today!

This weeks topic is:

Book Boyfriends...we've all got them. Who is yours and what qualities draws you to him?

So, I may be a bit of a book boyfriend hoard...or is it whore?? LoL I collect them like I collect books. But I have my main men that I will always, always place above all others. Who might those be you ask? Well read on to find out!

My book boyfriends are Strider from The Darkest Surrender by Gena Showalter, Mathew Clairmont from A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness and Cash Davenport from Down to You by M. Leighton. They encompass all the qualities I want in a real-life man. Sexy, strong and smart with a hint of bad-boy topped with alpha-male.

Who are you're book boyfriends and what books are they from?

Visit my girls to see who their book boyfriends are

Saturday Sales!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 15:08:00 +0000

*Prices subject to change without notice.

Books on SALE Tuesday edition

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:26:00 +0000

*Prices subject to change without notice.

Nette's Blogoversary Event Week 1: An interview with M. Leighton and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Let's get this party started friends! And what a better way to do that than with M. Leighton...I haven't met her personally (I'm hoping I'll get to soon though!) but she seems like a chick who knows how to get down and party LoL. She was gracious enough to lend me some of her time for a fun interview. I hope you enjoy it because I had a blast!!!!

Hi Michelle!! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer a few of my questions!! I’m extremely grateful and very excited to have even just a smidge of your time.

Nette: Ok, so first things first. Do you miss nursing? Like you [used to] I work in the medical field (trauma/ER dept. It’s really nothing like what they put on T.V although there are a couple McDreamy’s!) and some days it fills me with a satisfaction but other days I’m like EFF this!!! Why did you choose nursing?

ML: I miss some aspects of nursing, mostly the patients. I’m not unhappy with my decision to leave though. hehe I love, love, love what I do! As for why I chose nursing, I really enjoy helping people. If I had a “thang,” I guess that would be it. However I can, I like to help. Nursing satisfied that desire in a big way!

Nette: Was the notion of writing always floating around in the back of your mind? And was the first book you wrote ever published? Was it Bo’s story??

ML: NO! No and no. LOL I never once considered writing. I never dabbled when I was younger or journaled or kept a diary. None of that stuff that most authors do. I always loved to read, though, so I’ve had an appreciation for a love story and the power of the written word for most of my life. As for my very first book, it was an adult paranormal romance. I have yet to publish it and I’m not sure I ever will. So no, it wasn’t Bo’s story, but it will always hold a special place in my heart. I adored the plot and the main vamp was super hot. LOL

Nette: I really enjoy your writing style, to me it’s very simple but with so much emotion that it allows me to become fully invested in the characters and the story. Did you go back to school for writing?

ML: Thank you! That means so much to any writer!!! I’m glad that you find my books easy to read and easy to fall into. I think those are two of the most important things to achieve when penning a story. And it’s so, so gratifying to hear that I’ve accomplished that. *happy sigh* Sorry. I drifted off for a second and totally lost sight of the question. hehe No, I didn’t go back to school for writing. I just jumped right in. LOL And I’m so thrilled that I did!

Nette: You’ve written many books in a couple of genres. Which is your preferred genre to write?

ML: I take it in spells. I’ve got what I call AADD--author’s attention deficit disorder. LOL Right now, I’m loving contemporary romance, but I haven’t lost my love for throwing in paranormal creatures and fantastical powers into a book. There’s just something so liberating about writing whatever crosses your mind, whether plausible or not. I just love to write, so I’d have to say I don’t really have a preferred genre.

Nette: Is it difficult for you to write from a male’s perspective? Do you have a special consultant in that department??

ML: Believe it or not, no. It’s not at all. Growing up, I always had lots of male friends, so I got to spend lots of scary time hearing their thoughts and seeing inside their heads. LOL But it paid off, I think. Wouldn’t you agree? hehe

Nette: The Wild Ones is one of my favorite reads! Who was your inspiration for Trick and where or how did you come up with his famous ‘pick Trick’ line? The boy’s got game that’s for sure!!

ML: I know this sounds like a cop-out, but it’s true so here goes. I don’t have real life inspiration for my characters. They all grow, very organically, right from inside my head. When Trick first came to me, it was with that line. I didn’t know that his name would be a nickname for Patrick. That came later. I just saw that scene in my head like I was watching a movie. And, just like that, he was born. *another happy sigh* Man, I love my job! LOL Have I already said that?

Nette: I’ve always wondered where my favorite authors come up with their stories, tell me how do your stories come to you? Which comes first, the characters or the setting?

ML: I’ve had stories come to me both ways. Usually, the seed is either some interesting twist on a plot or some dramatic scene between two characters. From there, I go back and build. With that seed in mind, I just sit down and start typing. The only book that began with a setting was The Reaping. I saw that clearing in the forest first. Still to this day, I can see it as if I’ve been there. It’s pretty cool. It’s that way with some bit of every story I’ve ever written. Some part or parts are as clear to me, months or even years later, as if I’d actually lived it or been there.

Nette: And this leads me to my next question, what it the oddest place for inspiration to hit?

ML: The shower. Hands down. LOL That used to happen to me a lot more than it does now, but that’s by far the strangest place. I keep a pen and notepad in the bathroom for just that reason. I got tired of tracking water all over the floor and nearly falling and breaking a hip trying to scramble to write something down. hehe Lesson learned!

Just for fun questions

I’m totally putting you on the spot here but if you had to choose one of your male characters to be your favorite who would it be and why?

Yikes! I tend to be most in love with the guy I’m currently with. hehe So I’d say Alec Brand. He’s dark and sexy and so, so, so intense that I can’t get him out of my head.

Coffee or chocolate? You can only have one!!

To me, having to choose between these two is an even worse hell than having to choose my favorite male MC! *sobs* I’d have to go chocolate, I guess. It’s a close second to air for me. LOL

Who are two of your favorite go-to authors?

Johanna Lindsey and Janet Evanovich

Do you have any “rituals” that you do when you write? Like a wear specific pair of socks, pants, etc...

Not really. The only MUST I have is quiet. Absolute quiet. I can hear the voices in my head better that way. *winks*

Thank you SO MUCH for your time!! Congratulations on all of your success and I wish you more of it!!

Thank you so, so much for having me, Nette! I just adore you:)

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Coffe Shop Talks #5: Misleading book blurbs/synopses

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000

It's that time again friends! Our weekly get together where we sit and chat about bookish subjects. I'm hanging with my girls Danielle @ Coffee & Characters, Cat & Jamie @ Addicted To Heroines and Traci @ Mad Hatter Reads. Make sure you visit them and get in on the discussion as well =)

This week's topic is:

Misleading book blurbs/synopses

I have to laugh at myself for a moment because when I came up with this topic I had a book in mind and now I cannot, for the life of me, remember what that book is. GAH!! I suffer from periodic lapses in memory...the condition is called motherhood and as of now, there's no known cure. Sad, I know. Let this serve as a reminder for me to jot things down...if only I could remember to remember :\ Do you see my plight??? It's a perpetual cycle of forgetfulness. *clears throat* sorry, I also tend to go off topic as well. Back to the discussion....

There is one book that comes to the forefront of my skull now that I'm thinking about the topic, but it's not entirely misleading in the blurb.

It's that darn tag-line right before the synopses that doesn't make sense!

If I'm going to be honest here, the entire story doesn't make sense either. I don't want to give away any spoilers but when I reached the ending I was very disappointed. And confused. And perturbed that I spent more than .99$ on this book.

The End.

So tell me, what books have you read that had misleading blurbs/synopsis's??

Make sure to visit my girls! Tell them Nette sent 'cha! ;-)

It's my BLOGOVERSARY!!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Sun, 02 Jun 2013 16:33:00 +0000

The day has come! I'm excited to start my blogoversary event and share all of the wonderful interviews, giveaways and the exxtra-special guest post from my favorite author ever! It's going to be a month long event starting tomorrow until July 12 celebrating all things bookish! Each week a new author will be featured along with a giveaway. I know! And you guys, these aren't just any authors either, these are authors who have become stalkworthy for my bookshelf, have been put on auto-buy and whose books I go back to from time to time to get lost in the wonderful words they have written. I hope you enjoy this event as much as I enjoyed putting it together =)

It's been an amazing first year of blogging for me. When I started out, I had no idea what I was getting into or what to expect for that matter! But what I can say now is I'm glad I started my lil 'ol blog...I've learned a lot and have discovered some amazing authors, books and bloggers along the way. A huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who has helped me grow along the way.

Release Event: Beauty From Surrender by Georgia Cates Excerpt & Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Title: Beauty from Surrender (Beauty #2)
Author: Georgia Cates
Release date: May 30, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: Adult
Event organized by: AToMR Tours

Buy Beauty from Surrender (Beauty Series #2) on Amazon

Buy Beauty from Surrender (Beauty Series #2) on Barnes & Noble

Book Blurb:

The story of Jack Henry and Laurelyn continues...

How do you move on when he’s every song you sing?

After Laurelyn Prescott walks away from the love of her life, she returns to Nashville to pursue the only dream she has left. Determined to find a distraction from the pain of losing Jack Henry, she immerses herself in her music. But with her old life comes old acquaintances and new expectations. When Laurelyn refuses her record producer’s outrageous demands, she finds herself without a career—until an unforeseen opportunity presents itself. From there it’s a rocket ride straight to the top where Laurelyn finds the success she’s always dreamed of. Will it be enough to bring her the happiness she so deserves, or will the absence of Jack Henry leave her wanting more?

Jack Henry McLachlan never expected to fall in love with Laurelyn Prescott—but he did. After he foolishly let her slip through his fingers, he spends three months searching for her, but their reunion doesn’t come easy. The woman he finds isn’t the same one who drifted away without a goodbye. No longer an insecure girl on an Australian adventure, this Laurelyn is a successful musician with a promising career. Her dreams are becoming a reality, and Jack is terrified his American girl won’t have a place for him in her new life. With only a month to convince her otherwise, will it be enough time to make her visualize a life beyond the glitz and glamour, a life that includes him?

He holds out a red rose for me. “You have an admirer.”

I take the rose and bring it to my nose. Being given a bouquet of flowers isn’t unusual after a show but I’ve never been given a single rose before. It seems so intimate. “A fan, I suppose?”

“I found this dude standing outside the door looking in here just now. I asked him who he was but he didn’t say. He just told me to give you the rose and this guitar. Oh, and tell you he enjoyed the show—that you were ‘fan-fucking-tastic.’” He puts the case at my feet and the world around me begins to spin way too fast.

It’s my Martin. That can only mean Jack Henry was here. Right outside that door—that cracked door—while Charlie was kissing me.

I dash off the couch and run down the hallway, calling out for him like a maniac. “Jack Henry! Jack Henry!”

I have no idea which way to go, but I run toward the auditorium. It’s empty other than the cleaning staff, so I run toward the lobby and out to the street where I pray I’ll find him standing on the sidewalk.

It’s storming and the raindrops pelting down sting as they hit my face. I reach up to push my wet hair from my eyes and that’s when I see him. He’s getting into a cab up the street. “Jack Henry!” I shout at the top of my lungs but he doesn’t hear me. He’s too far away. “Jack Henry!”

I run toward the car screaming his name and I reach the cab as it’s leaving. I slam my hand across the top of the trunk as hard as I can before watching it pull away, taking him out of my life again.

“Nooo!” I scream so loudly, my vocal cords spasm. I drop to my knees there on the cold, wet concrete. I try to scream, and again, nothing comes out because my breath has been taken from me.

Please, don’t leave. Please, don’t be gone out of my life forever.

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Georgia resides in rural Mississippi with her wonderful husband, Jeff, and their two beautiful daughters. She spent fourteen years as a labor and delivery nurse before deciding to pursue her dream of becoming an author. Despite the struggle, she has no regrets in her decision to try this crazy life. She can honestly say that she’s living the dream.

Connect With Georgia

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Thursday Edition of SALE Books

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Thu, 30 May 2013 14:49:00 +0000

Prices subject to change without notice.

Tuesday Edition of Sale Books!

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Tue, 28 May 2013 16:20:00 +0000

*Prices are subject to change without notice.

Coffe shop Talks #4

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Mon, 27 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time again! Get your coffee ready and pull up your chair because it's time to talk books! Coffee Shop Talks is our weekly meme hosted by myself, Danielle @ Coffee & Characters, Traci @ Mad Hatter Reads and Jaime @ Addicted To Heroines. A weekly topic will keep us focused of course because we all know talking books can be a never ending topic! Join us in our discussion, we love to hear what you guys have to say too =)

This Weeks Topic

Do you judge a book by its cover? What are some of your best and worst and did the outside image reflect what was inside?

Do I judge a book by it's cover? Yes, I do. Don't we all at one point?? Although I don't decide to read the book based solely on its cover, I also read the synopses and if it interests me, I'll read it.
I'm first going to talk about the covers I wasn't in love with, so that I can end this post on a positive note! =)

Sugarfiend by Caroline Burau
Genre: Chick Lit

I hated. this. cover. So much so that I almost didn't read the book! But I had to because it was for a tour. The images in the picture aptly represent the story, so it's not misleading but I hated that the author gathered things from around the house, snapped a picture of it and used it as a cover. I felt like the author put no effort at all into making the cover eye-catching. I feel like this is something she would send to a cover designer as an inspiration photo you know? The story itself wasn't much better either from what I can recall. It wasn't horrible but it just didn't appeal to me.

Angels' Blood (Guild Hunter #1) by Nalini Singh

Genre: PNR

Although I adore the Guild Hunters series, I am not feeling this cover. It's way too bright with all that yellow and I think the model could have been better posed or they could have used a different picture. Honestly, it looks like a bad photoshop attempt! LoL but I do love the series so, I can overlook the fact that the cover is ugly.

Train Station Bride by Holly Bush

Genre: Historical Romance

So, I don't necessarily dislike this cover. Honestly I just think it's too monochromatic, although I'm not sure what I would want the cover to look like. I just know that the story is wonderful, the writing is even better and I fell in love with the characters! I stayed up all night finishing this one! I'm not really a historical romance kind of girl, but this book is SO GOOD! I'm very happy I gave it a try. Holly Bush is so nice and sweet too =)

The Secret of Ella & Micha by Jessica Sorensen

Genre: New Adult, Contemporary

I really like this cover. It's simple and really pretty. It relates to the story in that the story is about a boy and a girl. I really like that the people on the cover are muted and the lips are highlighted. This was another one of those books that had me staying up all night to finish as well! Loved this book. Hard!

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

Genre: Paranormal

This books was an accidental insta-love! I picked up this book because of the cover...I love all things celestial and magical so I wanted to see what this book was about. The blurb had me intrigued and I'm soooo glad I bought this book! The cover is plain and simple, but to me it was eye-catching due to that fact. If you haven't yet read ADOW, I advise you to do so. Like NOW! LoL It's a wonderful adult book with wonderful storytelling that's rich in history.

Kushiel's Chosen by Jacqueline Carey

Genre: Science Fiction

This was another one of those accidental insta-love's for me. I picked this up initially at my local library and what caught my eye was the sensuality of the woman with the tattooed back. I think it's sexy...and I also happen to have a tattoo fetish as well so I wanted to know what it was about. And yes, the cover totally portrays what happens in the book! I have to admit, I had no idea this was the second book in this series so when I began reading it, I was like WTF? So of course, after researching on Goodreads I immediately went back to my library to get the first book and a love affair with Jacqueline Carey quickly ensued. This book has it all in my opinion...intrigue, sensual eroticism, a sweet love story and a perfectly concocted plot with villains you love to hate!

What are some of your best and worst covers??

Don't forget to stop by my girls sites to see what their best & worst covers are!

Saturday SALES

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Sat, 25 May 2013 15:32:00 +0000

Thursday edition of Bargain Buys

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Thu, 23 May 2013 10:00:00 +0000

*Prices subject to change at any time.

Exclusive Excerpt & Giveaway!! The Liberator (Dante Walker Novels #2) by Victoria Scott

noreply@blogger.com (Antonietta Scrofani) — Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 +0000

I'm soo excited to share with you guys this exclusive excerpt from Victoria Scotts's next installment in her Dante Walker series. I'm excited for the next chapter in Dante & Charlie's adventure and I hope you guys are too. It's truly an awesome book. I enjoyed it. Very much. You can read my review of The Collector HERE if you're not familiar with the series.

Without further delay here it is! Enjoy it, devour it and make sure to pre-order!!

Title: The Liberator

Author: Victoria Scott

Expected Publication: 8.27.2013, Entangled Teen Publishing

Genre: YA, PNR

Pre-Order The Liberator (A Dante Walker Novel) (Entangled Teen) on Amazon
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Excerpt from THE LIBERTOR

By Victoria Scott

When I open my eyes, the sun is trying to murder me. It’s shining on my face and making my head pound. Or maybe it’s my hangover that’s giving me the headache, but nonetheless—me and the sun?—we’re not on friendly terms.

Charlie murmurs beside me. My arms are still wrapped around her waist, and I suddenly realize I must have crashed out in her bed last night. If Grams wakes up and finds me here, she’ll run me a bath…and toss in the toaster.

“Morning, babe,” I whisper.

“Morning, hot stuff,” a distinctly male voice responds.

I whip around, my heart racing, and find Max sitting in a chair across the room. “You look so hot when you first wake up,” he says. He raises a hand to his hair. “Got that whole sexy bed head thing going on.”

Charlie doesn’t even move from her place, but I feel her laughing against me. “Your friend is kind of creepy, Dante,” she manages.

“Max, what the hell are you doing in here?” I ask, pulling the covers farther up even though I’m (regretfully) fully-clothed.

“Real question is, why did I wait so long to join you guys?” Max stands from his chair and cocks his head. A mischievous smile crawls across his face.

“No,” I say, trying to appear serious. “Don’t even think about it, dude.”

Max starts running in place, his smile widening farther until he looks deranged. “Ready or not!” Before I can stop him, Max races toward the bed and dives on top of us. “Oh! Oh it feels even better than I imagined.” He rolls back and forth across our bodies as Charlie laughs and I wonder why I’m friends with such a raging idiot.

With all my strength, I grab Max’s shirt and rotate him toward the edge. He falls off the side, his arms pin-wheeling. There’s a loud thud, and then nothing.

I wait for several seconds before leaning over to search for him. Max is lying face down on the floor, his arms and legs curled like a dead spider. “You’re not really hurt,” I say.

“I think you gave me spinal bifida. You need to call someone.”

“That’s a genetic disorder,” I respond with a sigh, collapsing back onto my pillow. A second later, he raises his head very, very slowly up from the side of the bed. It’s one of the more unsettling things he’s ever done. “Max, is there a purpose to this visit?” I ask. I want so badly to act like he’s annoying me. But he knows, and I know, that we both love this game: the one where I pretend he’s a pain in my ass, and he acts like a damn circus clown.

He stands up, crosses the room, and plops back down in the chair. “Valery sent me.”

I throw an arm across my eyes. “Of course she did.” Beside me, Charlie moves to get up and I immediately reach for her. She squeals and wiggles out of my grasp.

I watch as she walks around the bed and ruffles Max’s hair. The twenty-eight year old pants like a dog. It’s a bit disturbing considering Charlie’s seventeen. She eyes me with a grin. “I’ll make waffles.”

My face lights up.

“Yes,” she continues. “And bacon.”

I glance at Max and nod toward Charlie. “That’s my girl.”

“Damn straight,” he says.

“I’m still making breakfast for your birthday,” I call after Charlie. Then, looking at Max, I add, “My girl’s going to be legal soon.”

Max says, “Boom.”

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Victoria Scott is a teen fiction writer represented by Sara Crowe. She's the author of THE COLLECTOR trilogy (Entangled Teen) and the FIRE & FLOOD series (Scholastic). Victoria lives in Dallas with her husband and hearts cotton candy something fierce.

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