YA Bound

Blog Tour: Spellbound Trilogy by Nikki Jefford Excerpt & GIVEAWAY

2012-06-04T07:17:00.000-04:00

In this excerpt, Graylee Perez uses an invisibility spell to sneak into English class late. She thinks she’s in the clear until bad boy Raj McKenna makes it clear he caught her in the act.

In the world of Entangled there are only a few witches and warlocks at McKinley High and “normals”, as they refer to the non-gifted, aren’t aware of their existence or abilities.

Excerpt: See You Around

Just as she headed toward Sadie, Graylee was bumped from behind. The force of the body against hers sent her pack flying out of her hands onto the ground. Okay, now she was pissed. “What’s your…”

Graylee whipped around to find herself face-to-face with Raj McKenna.

“…problem,” Graylee finished, the word fading like bleached denim.

Raj flicked his Zippo open and closed in his left hand while studying Graylee.

Raj had the kind of bronze-toned skin the socialites of McKinley tried obsessively to replicate in tanning booths. The only thing they managed to enhance was their orangish glow. Raj’s was a hundred percent authentic. His mother was Indian—as in India Indian. He’d inherited her lush dark hair and exotic eyes, the color of which he got from his American father; green like a panther’s, which fit him well ’cause he looked ready to pounce if you made the mistake of turning your back to him. Case in point: ramming Graylee as he’d just done now.

The Zippo clicked shut again. Raj really shouldn’t be playing with a lighter considering he’d burnt down his last house.

“Sorry, didn’t see you.”

Graylee’s jaw dropped.

This time, Raj’s eyes met hers. There was a glint there, or maybe that was just the flash from Raj’s lighter as he flicked it open and closed again.

As Yeats might’ve said back in the day: bloody hell.

The last person Graylee wanted knowing about her newfound disappearing act was Raj McKenna.

Raj was the kind of warlock who didn’t take vows of honor. An invisibility spell had no place inside Raj’s bag of tricks. He probably hadn’t considered it before and now Graylee had gone and put the idea into his delinquent head. Friggin’ great.

Author website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY: Spellbound Swag Pack

- Evil Eye Amulet and Bracelet: In Duplicity, Gray wears an evil eye pendant, also known as a nazar, to protect herself from a magical backfire spell that’s causing havoc over the witches and warlocks in her coven.

- Trick Coin: Two Grays are better than none, and two heads are better than one, especially when flipping over who gets to choose which movie to watch. Adrian returns in Duplicity this time opening up a magic and trick shop.

- Entangled bookmark.

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Book Review and Author Interview: The Girl in the Clockwork Collar by Kady Cross!

2012-06-02T14:15:00.003-04:00

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar: The Steampunk Chronicles #2

By Kady Cross

Release Date: 05/22/12

Hardcover/e-book

418 pages

Book Description from Amazon:

Sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne and her "straynge band of mysfits" have journeyed from London to America to rescue their friend Jasper, hauled off by bounty hunters. But Jasper is in the clutches of a devious former friend demanding a trade—the dangerous device Jasper stole from him…for the life of the girl Jasper loves.

One false move from Jasper and the strange clockwork collar around Mei's neck tightens. And tightens.

From the rough streets of lower Manhattan to elegant Fifth Avenue, the motley crew of teens with supernatural abilities is on Jasper's elusive trail. And they're about to discover how far they'll go for friendship.

More than ever, Finley Jayne will rely on powerful English duke Griffin King to balance her dark magic with her good side. Yet Griffin is at war with himself over his secret attraction to Finley…and will risk his life and reputation to save her. Sam, more machine than man, finds his moody heart tested by Irish lass Emily—whose own special abilities are no match for the darkness she discovers on the streets.

Now, to help those she's come to care for so deeply, Finley Jayne must infiltrate a criminal gang. Only problem is, she might like the dark side a little too much….

Click on the link below to read my review of The Girl in the Steel Corset!

***ARC provided by Harlequin Teen for review***

As I said before, I absolutely LOVED the steampunk world that Kady Cross created in The Girl in the Steel Corset and I couldn’t wait to dive in to the next installment in the series! At the end of The Girl in the Steel Corset, their cowboy friend Jasper is taken away by bounty hunters and is accused of murder. Convinced that Jasper is innocent, Griffin, Finley, Emily and Sam travel to New York and are determined to prove his innocence and set him free. But Jasper isn’t taken to prison, instead he is held captive by his old friend turned enemy, Dalton who is a dangerous criminal and gang leader. Dalton has Jasper’s ex-Mei and is using her to make sure Jasper retrieves the pieces to a mysterious and deadly machine. Jasper has no choice but to do what Dalton demands because he has a clockwork collar device on Mei that can kill her.

Once Finley and her friends are able to locate Jasper, they try to decide the best way to save him. Unfortunately, Finley and Griffin have some serious “tension” issues which makes them butt heads. Finley decides that the best way to help Jasper is by infiltrating Dalton’s gang. But as the Dalton’s missions get more and more dangerous, Finley and Griffin start worrying. Is Finley only going along because she wants to help free Jasper, or does her other half love the danger a little bit too much? And which side of Finley will win out at the end?

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar was a great addition to the Steampunk Chronicles! While Jasper was more of a minor character in the first book, he took on a much bigger role in his book and even had one of the POV’s. Although I enjoyed reading more about him, I was a little bit bummed out that Sam no longer had a POV. While the first book didn’t have much of a “romance” aspect, it definitely picks up in this book. Finley and Griffin are clearly attracted to each other and they are both too damn stubborn to admit it. There is so much sexual tension between them and its present from the very first page to the last. The ending is very satisfying and left me only that much more eager to read the next book in this series!

Another thing I missed from this book was Jack Dandy. While I am a Finley/Griffin fan, there was something about Jack Dandy that I couldn’t help but love and I hope we get to read more about him. Full of action, mystery, romance and plenty of awesome kick-ass fights, The Girl in the Clockwork Collar does not disappoint! Finley has easily joined the ranks of some of my favorite kick-butt female characters!

Cover Love: I loved the fierce and beautiful cover of The Girl in the Steel Corset and when I first saw the cover of this book I was disappointed that they changed models. But after reading the synopsis I realized that the girl in the cover is Mei, not Finley. The wicked looking collar and gorgeous dress totally makes up for it and I think this cover rocks!

4.5 out of 5 sparkly stars!

Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from The Girl in the Clockwork Collar:

-Word is Dalton likes rough girls.”

Finley grinned, well aware that there was blood in her mouth. “Then he ought to love me.”

-Sam looked thoughtful. “You know what, Em? You’re the only one of us Finley hasn’t hit.”

The Irish girl stared at him. “I haven’t given her a reason, now, have I?”

“Can we talk about something other than who Finley has and hasn’t punched and why?” Griffin asked-somewhat testily.

-She glared at him. “You said it was a good plan.”

Griffin glared back. “Sometimes good plans are also stupid plans.”

“You’re stupid.”

“Not as stupid as you.”

Silence fell between them as they stared each other down. Griffin wasn’t certain which one of them broke first, and it didn’t matter. It was only a matter of seconds before they were both laughing at their childness.

(This one cracked me up!)

-“The two of you are like a twister colliding with a mountain.”

There was no need to ask which one of the two she was, Finley thought with a smile.

-It really didn’t say much for her character-at least she didn’t think it did-that violence sometimes soothed her in a way nothing else could. Only Griffin had ever managed it…

-“When this is over,” Finley whispered as they walked, “were going to take turns holding him down while the other beats his pretty face.”

Jasper chuckled at her bloodthirsty tone. “Sounds fun.”

-“I bet he’s never met a gal like you before.”

“I should hope not,” she replied gibly, but heat filled her cheeks. “Nature couldn’t possibly make two mistakes like me.”

“You’re not a mistake. Don’t you ever think of yourself that way. You’re exactly as you ought to be.”

-“The two of you are the most bloodthirsty wenches I’ve ever met.”

“Do you like it?” Finley asked, squeezing his arm before releasing it.

He turned to her, his eyes bright. Was it just the reflection of the sun that gave them such warmth or something from within?

“I love it,” he said.

***Interview with Kady Cross***

1. How many books do you have planned for this series? Any novellas planned in different POV’s?

Right now I'm planning to do 5 books in total, with the last book being Jack's. I would love to do more novellas, but there aren't any planned at this moment.

2. What is your favorite quote or scene (non-spoiler) from The Girl in the Clockwork Collar?

Oh, dear. That's difficult to pick! I think one of my favorite scenes is Griffin and Finley in the hotel room near the beginning of the book. There's so much romantic tension between them! I also like the scene with Tesla's 'death' suit.

3. Can you share any pictures that served as fashion inspiration for your books?

Yes!

4. What is your favorite Steampunk clothing or accessory to wear? (The hats, the goggles…)

I love hats. I also love corsets, though they can be a little restrictive. I think my favorite things are the coats and the boots. I could give up all else if I had a fabulous coat and a smashing pair of boots.

5. If you could jump into a book, and live in that world, which would it be?

I'm going to be a wimp and say my own! lol. Then I could make certain flush toilets exist, that I'll like the food, and more importantly, that Jack Dandy would fall head over heels for me. ;-)

(Great choice!)

6. What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I have an amazing memory for entertainment trivia. It serves absolutely no purpose except that I can usually think of an actor's name when other people can't. Oh, and I regurgitate movie dialogue -- sometimes whole speeches. I think it's annoying.

7. What is your dream cast for your book?

You mean if it was a movie? Aaron Johnson for Griffin, Emma Watson for Finley, Lily Cole for Emily, Ben Barnes as Sam, a younger Jensen Ackles as Jasper, and a younger Russell Brand for Jack Dandy.

8. If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?

Pretty Crazy. It would tie in with the fact that I think all creative people are a little whacky, and the fact that I'm obsessed with makeup.

9. Finley Jayne is such an awesome kick-ass character, who is your favorite female book character and why?

This is really tough! A lot of my favorite female characters are from comic books. I love Death in Neil Gaiman's Sandman series. I love Storm, Phoenix and Mystique from the X-Men. I've always wanted to be Wonder Woman. I'm drawn to female characters who take their destinies into their own hands and don't need to be rescued. They're smart and tough but still feminine. Sometimes they do the wrong thing for the right reason, and if they're captured, they admit they messed up and then get themselves out of the situation! Sophie Jordan, Melissa Marr and Richelle Mead are just 3 authors who write this kind of character. I don't think I can pick a favorite.

10. Describe The Girl in the Clockwork Collar in 10 words or less…

A dangerous, romantic adventure in steampunk New York.

About the Author

Kady Cross is a pseudonym for USA Today bestselling author Kathryn Smith. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and a pride of cats. She likes singing with Rock Band on the 360, British guys, Vietnamese food, and makeup (she’s hopelessly addicted to YouTube makeup tutorials!). When she’s not writing Kady likes to catch up on her favorite TV shows, read a good book or make her own cosmetics.

Click on the link below to add The Girl in the Clockwork Collar to your Amazon wish list!

Cover Reveal: The Collector by Victoria Scott

2012-06-01T06:44:00.000-04:00

Dante Walker is flippin’ awesome, and he knows it. His good looks, killer charm, and stellar confidence have made him one of hell’s best—a soul collector. His job is simple, weed through humanity and label those round rears with a big red good or bad stamp. Old Saint Nick gets the good guys, and he gets the fun ones. Bag-and-tag.

Sealing souls is nothing personal. Dante’s an equal opportunity collector and doesn’t want it any other way. But he’ll have to adjust, because Boss Man has given him a new assignment:
Collect Charlie Cooper’s soul within 10 days.

Dante doesn’t know why Boss Man wants Charlie, nor does he care. This assignment means only one thing to him, and that’s a permanent ticket out of hell. But after Dante meets the quirky, Nerd Alert chick he’s come to collect—he realizes this assignment will test his abilities as a collector, and uncover emotions deeply buried.

Author Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Swoon Thursday (42)

2012-05-31T06:00:00.001-04:00

It's that time again! We created a HOT meme, and if you're new to the game, here's how to join in the fun:

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering.

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! We want to know :-)

Without further ado, here's ours:

RACHEL: First, I must say that this week was a challenge as the book I read, DREAMLESS by Josephine Angelini, has a few different choices--but almost all of them would've been spoilerific. And deleting names just looked way too corny LOL. So, here are some options to get you curious about who these could be referring to (same guy? different guy?) until the book hits stands this June (*grin*):
First, the Twitter swoon:

She kissed him, and this time she completely let herself go with it just to be sure.-DREAMLESS Swoon #YABound

And now, an extra, longer bloggy swoon:

He guided her down tot he ground, careful not to crush her underneath him. The tiny voice started yelling. She tried to ignore it because this guy felt amazing, but no matter what the rest of her body was saying, the damn voice wouldn't shut up until she pulled away from him.

TARA: Swooning over LIES BENEATH by Anne Greenwood Brown:

Her mouth found mine. Her lips were warm and soft. She tipped up her chin, and my mouth slid down her throat to her collar bone and then her shoulder-LIES BENEATH Swoon #YABound

KELLY: Swooning over DEAD OF NIGHT by Lynn Viehl:

Jesse didn't put me back on my feet until he kissed me breathless. Then I was the one who didn't want to let go-DEAD OF NIGHT Swoon #YABound

NEREYDA: Swooning over THE GIRL IN THE STEEL CORSET by Katy Cross:

She started to turn back to the window but Griff was staring at her with a glint in his eye she found hard to ignore. He watched her as though she were some kind of exotic animal-one he thought might bite him, even as he was sticking his hand into the cage-THE GIRL IN THE STEEL CORSET Swoon #YABound

EILEEN: Swooning over GLIMMER by Phoebe Kitanidis:

HIs lips taste so good. I kiss back hungrily, never wanting it to end.-- GLIMMER Swoon #YABound

TRISH: Swooning over THRONE OF GLASS by Sarah J. Maas

His mouth was soft and smooth upon her skin, and the kiss sent a red-hot line of fire up through her arm that singed her cheeks. She fought against the urge to step back. Or smack him-THRONE OF GLASS Swoon #YABound

SO NOW IT'S YOUR TURN: In 140 characters . . . or, perhaps a bit more if you need to cheat LOL, SWOON us!

Spotlight: This Is Not A Test by Courtney Summers

2012-05-30T06:54:00.002-04:00

This Is Not A Test

by Courtney Summers
320 pages
Release Date: June 19, 2012
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Source: Review Copy via NetGalley
My Rating: ★★★★☆

Goodreads | Amazon | BN.com

It’s the end of the world. Six students have taken cover in Cortege High but shelter is little comfort when the dead outside won’t stop pounding on the doors. One bite is all it takes to kill a person and bring them back as a monstrous version of their former self. To Sloane Price, that doesn’t sound so bad. Six months ago, her world collapsed and since then, she’s failed to find a reason to keep going. Now seems like the perfect time to give up. As Sloane eagerly waits for the barricades to fall, she’s forced to witness the apocalypse through the eyes of five people who actually wantto live. But as the days crawl by, the motivations for survival change in startling ways and soon the group’s fate is determined less and less by what’s happening outside and more and more by the unpredictable and violent bids for life—and death—inside. When everything is gone, what doyou hold on to?.

Book Review

As a fan of zombies and Young Adult fiction alike, I rather enjoyed this book. This Is Not A Test, the message that was broadcast by a female voice over and over during this particular zombie apocalypse and who later was baptized as Tina-T, is not your typical zombie book. There's gore, death, and all what you would expect to find in a novel about zombies, but TINAT is actually very character-driven. You end up very invested in all the survivors' stories and from the beginning you are feel very inclined to pick sides and in your head decide who will inevitably meet their impending death.

Sloane, the main character, is a very depressed and suicidal young girl. She and her older sister, Lilly, are constantly beat by their abusive father, a fact that forces the sisters to formulate a plan to escape. Lilly, being the older sister, ends up taking charge of this plan and saving money to get herself and her sister out of their father's home. Eventually Lilly splits and leaves Sloane alone with her father. Faced with Lilly's abandonment and her father's increasing violent behavior, Sloane makes the decision that she no longer wants to live in this world. Only, Sloane doesn't get a chance to put her plan into action because before she knows it, zombies are all over the place and her survival instinct kicks in. She ends up running away from home and meeting up with a group of teens who seek shelter at their high school, where they barricade the doors and make a temporary home for themselves.

The real grit of the story is in the characters' individual personalities and the things they are capable of. Being stuck in a school gym with other teens that you may not have necessarily talked to in the school hallway, coupled with the fact that you may very likely die, has a way of bringing out the worse in all these characters. Sloane, constantly reminding herself that she isn't supposed to be there, because she doesn't be alive in the first place, is unknowingly the strongest of them. I had a hard time believing that Sloane truly didn't want to live. She sort of reminded me of the character Andrea in the popular TV/Comic Book series "The Walking Dead". This book was a very entertaining book. It starts off slow as it gets into the characters' stories and the conflict that arises between the survivors, but it really picks up with zombie action in the end where unexpected things surely happen. 4-Stars.

About The Author

Courtney Summers can't wait for the zombie apocalypse. Also she is the author of CRACKED UP TO BE and SOME GIRLS ARE, FALL FOR ANYTHING (available now) and THIS IS NOT A TEST (June 19th, 2012), four edgy young adult novels published by St. Martin's Press.

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Spotlight on Spectral by Shannon Duffy

2012-05-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

ebook 329 pages

Published April 10, 2012

Tribute Books

Find it on Amazon

Convinced she’s a part of the witness protection program, sixteen-year-old Jewel Rose is shuffled around the globe with her family like a pack of traveling gypsies. After arriving at lucky home twenty-seven, she stumbles upon a mysterious boy with magical powers claiming to be her guardian . . . and warning of imminent danger. Despite the obvious sparks between them, Jewel discovers a relationship is forbidden, and the more she learns about dark, brooding Roman, she begins to question who she can even believe — the family who raised her, or the supposed sworn protector who claims they’ve been lying to her all along.
As she struggles to uncover who her family has really been running from, she is forced to hide her birthmark that reveals who she is. With new realities surfacing, unexplained powers appearing, and two tempting boys vying for her heart, Jewel battles to learn who she can trust in an ever growing sea of lies, hoping she’ll make it through her seventeenth birthday alive.

I love a good witch book, so I had to read this the second it was available, and I wasn't disappointed. Jewel is an amazing character. Her parents have been lying to her her entire life, and it leaves Jewel feeling disconnected from everyone, except her little brother. And she has good reason for feeling this way. I won't give spoilers, so you'll have to read it to find out what I mean, but let me just say that Duffy throws a twist in here that is truly awesome. Actually, she throws quite a few twists in the story by the end. And oh, the ending! Loved it!

Of course Jewel gets the attention of not one but two completely hot guys. Chase and Roman are both into Jewel, but there's something about Roman that's different--something Jewel is drawn to. The dynamic between the two is so well done, and there's plenty of conflict to go around.

Seriously, I don't want to spoil any of the twist and turns this book has, so go read it yourself and fall in love with Jewel and her friends.

Author website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Miniview with Shannon Duffy

Team Roman or Team Chase?

That’s a tough one because they’re both hot in their own ways. Chase is the boy next door, all American athlete type, with a heart of gold, persistent as heck, and abs of steel. Roman is sexy, mysterious, guitar playing, Italian with a slight lyrical accent to boot. I’ve always been a sucker for an accent so maybe I’ll choose him. J

What's your favorite type of butterfly? (I loved the butterfly references in this book!)

Thanks, Kelly. I love butterflies and the story of the butterfly. I love all sorts of butterflies, really, but especially the really colorful ones like the one on the cover of Spectral. Here’s a picture of a Purple Spotted Swallowtail that’s a very rare type of butterfly. Isn’t it beautiful?

Where is your favorite place to write?

I mostly write in my office where a lot of my favorite things are. Here are some pictures of my little space. I love lots of color for creativity. The balloon picture I bought from the same artist that did the cover for Spectral. I love the whimsical feel of it. I keep some of my favorite books handy and usually there’s a cup of coffee on that desk, or a diet coke depending on the time of day. Sounds like a lot of caffeine, but I swear I drink lots of water, too! J And Marilyn Monroe! Love her, so she surrounds this space quite a bit. Then the chair under the window is for my husband to sit in while I read my latest works. He’s my first critique. If something sounds off to him, I change it.

Blog Tour: Spectral by Shannon Duffy

2012-05-28T12:30:00.003-04:00

ebook, 242 pages
Published April 10th 2012 by Tribute Books

Convinced she’s a part of the witness protection program, sixteen-year-old Jewel Rose is shuffled around the globe with her family like a pack of traveling gypsies. After arriving at lucky home twenty-seven, she stumbles upon a mysterious boy with magical powers claiming to be her guardian . . . and warning of imminent danger. Despite the obvious sparks between them, Jewel discovers a relationship is forbidden, and the more she learns about dark, brooding Roman, she begins to question who she can even believe—the family who raised her, or the supposed sworn protector who claims they’ve been lying to her all along.

As she struggles to uncover who her family has really been running from, she is forced to hide her birthmark that reveals who she is. With new realities surfacing, unexplained powers appearing, and two tempting boys vying for her heart, Jewel battles to learn who she can trust in an ever growing sea of lies, hoping she’ll make it through her seventeenth birthday alive.

EXCERPT

Roman leaned back to study me and his jaw relaxed. He pulled me against him again and thankfully he changed the topic. “Hey, thanks for coming.”

“No problem, I’m having a blast.” I tucked a stray strand of hair behind my ear, and then wrapped my arms around his neck, entwining my hands behind him. He was a lot taller than me, so I stood on my tip-toes as he held me tightly. My shirt had shimmied up a bit, and I was totally aware of his warm hands against the bare skin on my lower back. His touch sent shivers down my spine.

We danced against each other, the music and neon lighting transforming our bodies into fluid rhythm. His toned chest through the soft fabric of his t-shirt and the gentle sway of his hips against mine was intoxicating.

I tried to gather my senses. “Where are you from anyway?” I asked, realizing I didn’t know much about him.

“Italy originally. But I’ve been traveling around a bit.”

“Ah, that’s what it is.”

“What do you mean?”

“Your accent…I was wondering where you were from.”

He chuckled. “You’re the one who has an accent.”

“Touché…and I guess we have more in common than we first thought, huh?”

Amusement warmed his eyes. “Oh yeah? You’re from Italy, too?”

“No, not that part. The traveling around part. My family’s like a pack of gypsies you could say,” I forced a half smile.

“True?” His voice rose at the end of my name softly as he tilted my head up towards him.

I willed my eyes to stay focused on his as my heart rate climbed. “Yeah?” I asked, secretly hoping he would ask to kiss me, my eyes beginning to linger on his lips. I couldn’t tell if it was just the alcohol, or his total hotness that was making me swoon. Probably a combination of both.

Author website | Twitter | Facebook | Tribute Books | Amazon

Swoon Thursday (41)

2012-05-24T07:27:00.000-04:00

She kissed him, and this time she completely let herself go with it just to be sure.-DREAMLESS Swoon #YABound

TARA: Swooning over THE WEEPERS by Susanne Winnaker:

Twitter Version:

I leaned in and brushed my lips against his. Sweet and warm. Joshua wrapped his arms around me and pulled me closer.

Kelly: Swooning over DEAD OF NIGHT:

Whenever we touched, our heartbeats changed rhythm, as they did now, until they beat together in sync.--Dead of Night SWOON #YABound

NEREYDA: Swooning over SWEET EVIL by Wendy Higgins:

His mouth found mine in the dark, fiery and rough. I gave a tiny whimper before melting into him and pulling his face down to mine even harder. In that kiss we spoke all of the things we couldn't say. He kissed me with an urgency born of some strong, unstable emotion: fury.

EILEEN: Swooning over GLIMMER by Phoebe Kitanidis:

Twitter approved:

HIs lips taste so good. I kiss back hungrily, never wanting it to end.-- GLIMMER Swoon #YABound

TRISH:

"I barely brushed my lips down her cheek as I moved toward her mouth. Her nails tickled my chest, driving me insane. Kissing her became my single reason for breathing. --PUSHING THE LIMITS Swoon #YABound

SO NOW IT'S YOUR TURN: In 140 characters . . . or, perhaps a bit more if you need to cheat LOL, SWOON us!

Spotlight: The Weepers by Susanne Winnacker

2012-05-23T04:00:00.000-04:00

Hardcover, 261 pages

Published May 15th 2012 by Marshall Cavendish Buy it on Amazon

3 years, 1 month, 1 week and 6 days since I’d seen daylight. One-fifth of my life. 98,409,602 seconds since the heavy, steel door had fallen shut and sealed us off from the world

Sherry has lived with her family in a sealed bunker since things went wrong up above. But when they run out of food, Sherry and her dad must venture outside. There they find a world of devastation, desolation...and the Weepers: savage, mutant killers.

When Sherry's dad is snatched, she joins forces with gorgeous but troubled Joshua - an Avenger, determined to destroy the Weepers.

But can Sherry keep her family and Joshua safe, when his desire for vengeance threatens them all?

I am a huge fan of dystopian and zombie fiction, so I knew this was a book I had to read. And it didn’t disappoint. The story starts by laying out the scene that has been Sherry’s life for the past three years. Her life is lived in a small bunker with her family. When they run out of food, they are faced with a grim decision. Leave their safe haven or starve. Sherry and her father must venture out into the rabies-infected world in search for food, and this is where the story kicks off. In her first encounter with the Weepers (rabies infected humans), Sherry’s father is taken. She then pairs up with the boy who saves her. Another survivor named Joshua who helps in the search for her father.

I loved everything about this book. Especially Susanne Winnacker’s voice. Her writing style is flawless. From the perfectly placed flashbacks, to the countdown of days since Sherry had lived in civilization, her writing style is fresh and unique and grabbed me from the very first line. It was gritty and dark and the emotions were so real I ached for each character. The moments between Joshua and Sherry are sweet and fleeting as their feelings bloom for each other throughout the book. But those small moments are even more beautiful in a world that is so broken.

The Weepers is a welcomed addition to the dystopian genre and has this reader hooked. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!

Tara

Miniview with Author Susanne Winnacker

1.) You get to pick any YA hero to be your book boyfriend for the week. Who do you choose?

Tucker from Unearthly. Swoon-worthy, down-to-earth kind of guy who would take me hiking through beautiful nature. No stalker, so that’s a plus too! ;)

2.) If you could be any character in YA fiction, who would you be and why?

So many characters I admire live in dystopian societies, so I’m not really keen on being them if that means I’ll have to live in their world. Maybe Puck from The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater because I’d love to live on Thisby and see the Capaill Uisce (water horses), at least for a little while. What I like about her: She’s stubborn and tries to do the best for her family.

3.) Favorite candy on movie night?

Nachos with cheese and jalapenos.

4.) Who would win a battle between a weeper and a ninja?

I guess that depends on the ninja. A great ninja might stand a chance even without weapons. But Weepers are fast

If you want to know more about Susanne and her awesome books click here.

Cover Reveal (Take Two): MY SUPER SWEET SIXTEENTH CENTURY by Rachel Harris

2012-05-21T00:02:00.058-04:00

My debut, MY SUPER SWEET SIXTEENTH CENTURY, has had a facelift.

Although the response to the initial cover was wonderful and enthusiastic, Entangled Teen has given my YA Magical Realism/Historical a new look…and to celebrate, I'm sharing a never-before-seen sneak peek, the first look at my new book trailer, AND hosting a GIVEAWAY!!!

But first, my beautiful precious:

On the precipice of her sixteenth birthday, the last thing lone wolf Cat Crawford wants is an extravagant gala thrown by her bubbly stepmother and well-meaning father. So even though Cat knows the family’s trip to Florence, Italy, is a peace offering, she embraces the magical city and all it offers. But when her curiosity leads her to an unusual gypsy tent, she exits . . . right into Renaissance Firenze.

Thrust into the sixteenth century armed with only a backpack full of contraband future items, Cat joins up with her ancestors, the sweet Alessandra and protective Cipriano, and soon falls for the gorgeous aspiring artist Lorenzo. But when the much-older Niccolo starts sniffing around, Cat realizes that an unwanted birthday party is nothing compared to an unwanted suitor full of creeptastic amore.

Can she find her way back to modern times before her Italian adventure turns into an Italian forever?

EEP!! What do you guys think? I love the colors in this and I'm so happy to see the backpack, which is just such an important part of the story. I love the writing, the dress, the mood, the hint at the time travel....and seeing my name written in the bottom right corner kinda rocks, too :)

Please be sure to visit the fantabulous bloggers co-hosting this reveal to read a *second* never-before-seen peek, but for now, here is an *exclusive* new excerpt you can't read anywhere else:

“You are an artist?”

I decide to let the shock and awe in Lorenzo's voice slide. His face breaks into a breathtaking smile and I lose myself for a moment in just how gorgeous this boy really is. He scrunches his mouth, which just makes me think about kissing it again, and guides my finger to point to the sky, pressing his chest close behind me.

My eyes flitter closed and my body begins to sink against him.

“What do you see?”

At the wonder-filled whisper in my ear, my eyes open and my spine straightens. I blink to focus. “Clouds?”

I hear the soft chuckle under his breath and instantly feel stupid. This is a test. An artist’s test. A test I am going to pass with flying colors.

“I meant to say that I see an azure sky with wisps of magnolia-colored clouds,” I clarify, a smug smile creeping up my face.

“Very good,” Lorenzo says. “My father would look up and see nothing more than commonplace blue and white. He has no imagination.”

Proud that I proved myself imaginative, I sit taller.

Then he asks, “What about shapes? What objects do you see in the clouds?”

This test is harder. I let my eyes relax as I gaze above, hoping and praying I’m not as closed off as his dad. I’ve always loved art. It’s the one place I can make a name for myself—the one area I can just be me, without the mess of who my family is. But I’ve never really stopped to see the beauty in everyday things like cloud formations.

As I watch above, shapes suddenly pop out at me, and a grin creeps up my face. I haven’t stared at clouds since I was a kid, but he’s exactly right. This is art. “Well, right there—that one? That is a huge clock tower, and to the left below it is an elegant arched bridge.” Despite myself, I snuggle back into his hard chest and sigh. “I love bridges.”

Lorenzo stiffens behind me, and I look up to see him staring intently in Cipriano’s direction. I remember his promise not to touch me and go to move, but he snakes his arm around my waist, securing me against him.

As if nothing happened, he carries on. “They are quite beautiful,” he says, his whisper huskier now. I swallow and close my eyes as he presses his nose between my shoulder and neck, grazing my skin softly as he inhales deeply. “However, you missed the cherub floating down the celestial road.”

MY SUPER SWEET SIXTEENTH CENTURY hits bookshelves everywhere September 11, 2012, and is available now for pre-order at IndieBound, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, The Book Depository, and Books a Million. You can add it to your Goodreads shelf here.

Follow me on Twitter and Facebook and visit me at my Website

And here is the first look at my new trailer, designed by the awesome Rachel Firasek:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

So, what do you think?

Book Review, Author Interview and GIVEAWAY: Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris!

2012-05-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

Unraveling

By Elizabeth Norris

Release Date: 04/24/12

Hardcover/e-book

464 pages

Book Description from Amazon:

Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being—that Ben has somehow brought her back to life.

But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.

From debut author Elizabeth Norris comes this shattering novel of one girl's fight to save herself, her world, and the boy she never saw coming.

***

As soon as I saw the cover for Unraveling I knew I had to have it! The book description sounded so different than most other books at the time with the sci-fi storyline. I was anxiously waiting for the release of this book and it definitely did not disappoint!

Unraveling tells the story of Janelle Tanner, who is probably one of my favorite female characters! Janelle isn’t your typical girl and she doesn’t have the perfect life or family. Her father is an FBI agent who spends too much time on cases and her mother is bipolar and is at times barely functional, which has left Janelle with the burden and responsibility of taking care of her family including her younger brother. She also lost one of her ex best friends when she slipped something in her drink at a party a couple years ago and she woke up in a car with her pants down and her underwear ripped. To this day, Janelle still doesn't know what happened to her at that party. But, even though her family has issues, she has a pretty good support system. She has her dad who is a really good parent who just happens to lose himself in his work, she has her younger brother, her best friend Alex and her dad's partner an long-time family friend-Struz. (I LOVED Struz!)

When a truck comes barreling out of nowhere and hits her, Janelle knows that she died. But she also knows that Ben-who she has known for a long time and always considered a stoner kid-did something to her and somehow brought her back to life. Nobody believes that Janelle died, but she knows better. So she goes looking for answers to the only person who can give them to her, Ben. At first he denies it, but Janelle is persistent and doesn't give up. Ben and Janelle start spending more time together, but she tries to figure out exactly what he is. When she finally finds out, she discovers that he is somehow connected to a top secret case her father and Struz are working on, which seems to be the countdown to the end of the world. Janelle, Ben, Alex and Ben's friends try to figure out how to stop it, but how many people will get hurt before they figure out that this problem is so much bigger than any of them thought?

Unraveling is an intense and emotional, non-stop action story that will surprise you and break your heart at the same time. Janelle and Ben's relationship is a nice and slow build up with a cliffhanger that I never saw coming! Janelle's relationship with her mom, dad, brother, Alex, Struz and Ben was so heartbreakingly sweet. I LOVED the countdown at the beginning of each chapter which added to end-of-the-world race against time theme. Unraveling is a fantastic, fast-paced sci-fi story with plenty of romance, action, suspense and mystery with plenty of turns to keep you on the edge of your seat! I seriously hope that there is a sequel to Unraveling because I'm dying to know what happens next. Unraveling is an amazing story you will not want to miss!

4.5 out of 5 sparkly stars!

Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from Unraveling:

-"If the universe was going to give you superhero powers, they could have at least given you the ability to fly or something," I add, because apparently I don't know when I'm taking things too far.

He shakes his head, and his voice comes out barely above a whisper. "I'm not a superhero."

But he saved me.

-Lives are made of strings of moments, and every once in a while, one of those moments is pivotal and defining. It changes everything, alters you so completely that when you look back, there's a clear before and after.

-We sit next to each other, shoulder to shoulder, the sun setting in front of us, eating my favorite food in the world, and I just know-this is why I have a second chance. This is why I back from the dead-so I could really feel alive.

-I put my hands on the side of his face, and I turn him so we're nose to nose, our foreheads touching. We're both breathing heavily, and I wonder what he's thinking. If his heart is beating so fast it's ready to explode out of his skin. If he's glad that truck came barreling through ...and hit me because it brought us together. If he realizes the smell of mint, soap, and gasoline now drives me crazy-in the best possible way.

-I'm finally broken-more broken than I was days ago when my body lay dead on the side of the road by Torrey Pines Beach.

Broken. There's no other way to describe it. My insides are cracking apart, imploding. Nothing can give me life again-nothing can make me whole. Not even Ben.

This is Just Too Much.

***Author Interview***

1. After leaving us with that heck of a cliffhanger, please tell us that there will be a sequel to Unraveling?

There will!

2. Is there anything you can share with us about the sequel? Name, release date, teaser quote or blurb?

The sequel, titled UNBREAKABLE, will be out next year in April 2013. It takes place four months after the end of Unraveling and readers will get to see a lot more of Janelle, Ben, Barclay, Elijah, and Cecily.

3. Janelle was such an awesome character! LOVED her! What would you say is her best quality? What about her worst quality?

One of the things I love most about her is that she's smart, tough, and independent. But I think because of all three of those things, she makes mistakes sometimes. She puts a lot on herself and sometimes she should just ask for help.

4. What is your favorite non-spoiler quote or scene in Unraveling?

My favorite scene is about three quarters into the book and in the middle of a rainy night, and Janelle and Ben are in a laundry room.

5. E-book novellas are getting pretty popular right now and are a great way to keep fans happy in between books. Do you have any plans of writing any Unraveling related novellas?

I actually do have plans for that. They're not finalized yet, but I have three short stories I'm working on from Ben's point of view. They take place before, during, and after Unraveling.

6. I LOVE your pink hair! Do you ever wear any other hair colors besides pink?

I had always wanted pink hair! Unfortunately it's not pink right now :( It's back to my normal auburn/brown color. I really want to do something crazy like purple highlights soon.

7. What is your dream cast for your book?

I love Hailee Steinfeld from True Grit and I think she'd be the perfect Janelle. Ben is a little tougher. All the actors I think of for him are actually too old. I imagined him as James Franco from his freaks and geeks days or as the cover model from the book (he's perfect).

8. Is there a song you could list as the theme song for your book or any of your characters?

"We are Broken" by Paramore is definitely an awesome theme song for the book.

9. Describe your book in 10 words or less…

UNRAVELING is...

Janelle's fight to unravel Ben Michaels and save the world.

***GIVEAWAY***

Elizabeth Norris was awesome enough to offer to give away a signed hardcover copy of Unraveling to one lucky winner. Open internationally! Enter below and please note that I will be checking entries before contacting winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

Elizabeth Norris briefly taught high school English and history before trading the southern California beaches and sunshine for Manhattan's recent snowpocalyptic winter.

She harbors dangerous addictions to guacamole, red velvet cupcakes, sushi, and Argo Tea, fortunately not all together.

Her first novel, UNRAVELING (Balzer+Bray, April 2012), is the story of one girl’s fight to save her family, her world, and the one boy she never saw coming.

Read more of my reviews and author interviews at:

Nereyda @Mostly YA Book Obsessed

http://BooksandSparkles.Blogspot.com

Here is a list of my Author Interviews so far this month:

Abbi Glines

Ada Adams

Jennifer Lane

Jus Accardo (Untouched-Kale Character Interview)

Nyrae Dawn

Phoebe Kitanidis

Wendy Higgins

Swoon Thursday (40)

2012-05-17T06:29:00.000-04:00

She kissed him, and this time she completely let herself go with it just to be sure.-DREAMLESS Swoon #YABound

And now, an extra, longer bloggy swoon:

He guided her down tot he ground, careful not to crush her underneath him. The tiny voice started yelling. She tried to ignore it because this guy felt amazing, but no matter what the rest of her body was saying, the damn voice wouldn't shut up until she pulled away from him.

TARA: Swooning over THE WEEPERS by Susanne Winnaker:

Twitter Version:

I leaned in and brushed my lips against his. Sweet and warm. Joshua wrapped his arms around me and pulled me closer.

Kelly: Swooning over KNEE DEEP by Jolene Perry:

Too Good To Cut Down Version:

Our eyes meet again, and there's no way we can stand like this and not kiss. Every cell in every part of me pulls and pushes toward him until our lips are together, sending waves of shivers through me. The kind that heat me up, fill me, and take me over in a way I want to be taken over again and again. His hands cup my face in his. I swim in him, get lost. My hands lightly grasp his wrists as his hands hold my face and our mouths slide together again.

NEREYDA: Swooning over SWEET EVIL by Wendy Higgins:

His mouth found mine in the dark, fiery and rough. I gave a tiny whimper before melting into him and pulling his face down to mine even harder. In that kiss we spoke all of the things we couldn't say. He kissed me with an urgency born of some strong, unstable emotion: fury.

EILEEN: Swooning over GLIMMER by Phoebe Kitanidis:

Twitter approved:

HIs lips taste so good. I kiss back hungrily, never wanting it to end.-- GLIMMER Swoon #YABound

TRISH:

"I barely brushed my lips down her cheek as I moved toward her mouth. Her nails tickled my chest, driving me insane. Kissing her became my single reason for breathing. --PUSHING THE LIMITS Swoon #YABound

SO NOW IT'S YOUR TURN: In 140 characters . . . or, perhaps a bit more if you need to cheat LOL, SWOON us!

Spotlight: Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

2012-05-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Galen is the prince of the Syrena, sent to land to find a girl he’s heard can communicate with fish. Emma is on vacation at the beach. When she runs into Galen—literally, ouch!—both teens sense a connection. But it will take several encounters, including a deadly one with a shark, for Galen to be convinced of Emma’s gifts. Now, if he can only convince Emma that she holds the key to his kingdom . . .

Told from both Emma and Galen’s points of view, here is a fish-out-of-water story that sparkles with intrigue, humor, and waves of romance.

Review
Words cannot describe the emotions I'm feeling right now. I finished this yesterday, but the shock and the amazement of the sheer greatness of this book still hasn't worn off of me yet. I went into this book without many expectations, because this wasn't on my TBR list in the first place, and I have this pact not to read any reviews until after I've finished a book so my opinion won't be swayed. I had no idea what to expect with this book, and let me tell you, as I was literally tearing through this book, I loved it. Like, to the extent where I spent most of my social studies class just reading this. (It's the teacher's fault that she reads at half a foot per hour, and she insisted on reading a ten-page packet to us instead of just giving it to us and telling us to read it silently. She didn't even explain afterwards! It was just boring blah blah.)

This starts very quickly and really cleverly. Emma meets Galen right off the bat, by bumping into him in her typical Emma-fashion, since she's really clumsy. What I like about Emma is how strong-willed she is, even though she's a horrible klutz. Emma also has her insecurities and her doubts, and she blushes, like any normal teenager, but she has a ton of spirit and will over all of that that virtually masks it. Throughout this book, you learn a lot about Emma, especially after all she's been through, and she is one tough chick. It's hard not to love her and want to have that inimitable (vocab word!) personality she does.

After Chloe, Emma's best friend, the unshakable ball of confidence, the person Emma used to shadow, is kille when a shark attacks her, you're really unnerved but also drawn in and eager for more. When it all unfolds, you're in Galen's point of view, which actually has its advantages. Since Galen knows more about the Syrena, he can sense Emma's Syrena presence and sees that she's definitely not like the other humans. And Galen's immediately drawn to Emma, which immediately engaged me, because after having the first chapter in Emma's POV, it seems obvious that they both really liked each other.

Emma tried to save Chloe from the shark, but in the end it wasn't enough. After this whole fiasco, Galen follows Emma up from Florida, where Chloe and Emma were visiting when Chloe died, to Emma's hometown, New Jersey. So, from there, Galen and Emma's bonds strengthen, and you see them falling in love. The ironic thing is, because you can see what both of them are thinking, that they think the other person has no interest whatsoever for each other when they're both basically smitten. And Galen is one very fine person to be smitten over. He was this gentle, caring guy who showed a mask of indifference, only because he had to, but Galen was really a very strong character and perfect for Emma. He wasn't that typical broody-yet-deep badboy. He's a Syrena prince. Those are the only words I can find that can do Galen justice.

The plot was just fantastic. The pacing was great, and everything played some important role. Anna was completely in control of what was going on, and I loved every minute of reading this book. There wasn't any action, per se, but it was just how everything was written that was great. There was drama, and I honestly loved learning about what happened. I loved the concept of this, because it was like a normal mermaid book, but with a new name and a great plot that backed it up. Simple, yet so completely perfect. One minute, I'm laughing, and the next I'm biting my nails, and then I'm screaming "WHYY?"

At the end, that cliffhanger that basically ensures me reading the next book. I didn't see it coming at all, but there were definitely clues. I tried to click the Next button on my Kindle because his is what went down:

*Reads end. Calmly puts Kindle aside, walks to parents and grandparents.*
(To Dad, shaking his shoulders): WHYYYY?? WHY??? *fake-sobbing* WHYY??

Dad: *Grunts*
(Walks over to Mom, laying head on her shoulders): *Still fake-sobbing.* WHY?? WHY??
Mom: What? Eileen, stop being so dramatic.

(Walks over to Grandma, and shakes her shoulders): (In Chinese) WHY?? WHY?? (Chinese word: 为设么?)

Yeah. So, why are you still reading this? Go and pre-order this book! You know you want to. :)

Favorite Scene
I've decided to do a little "Favorite Scene" just for my YA Bound spotlight reviews, since I'll be reposting most of my reviews that I write here to my own blog, so you guys have something new to look forward to, since sometimes I add a little song-related thing into the reviews on my own blog, so why not do the same here? Well, this one scene I can't forget is one between Toraf and Emma that just had me cracking up for minutes after I'd read it. (Warning: it will be slightly spoilery)

Rayna, Galen's twin sister, is supposed to mate with Toraf (it's a Syrena tradition), but Rayna never shows interest, even though Toraf makes it obvious he loves Rayna. So Emma tells Toraf to play "hard to get" during a Syrena lesson between them while Galen and Rayna are away. And what does Toraf do? Just as Galen and Rayna resurface from a swim, Toraf tells Emma that they're going to put on a show. And then Toraf KISSES Emma. And then Galen rams into Toraf and starts hitting him, and Rayna's just really hurt. And when Toraf brushes Rayna off, Rayna's EXTREMELY hurt. I just started cracking up when that happened.

Tell me what you think of that scene!

***Sorry for the long review, but I was in the mood to rant. ;))***

Spotlight On Insanity by Lauren Hammond

2012-05-15T06:00:00.001-04:00

ebook 190 pages

Published April 10, 2012

SB Addison Books

Find it on Amazon

Sometimes love...can drive you crazy.

Adelaide Carmichael and Damien Allen couldn't be more opposite. Adelaide's mother abandoned her when she was ten years old, leaving her to be raised by her abusive and alcoholic father. Damien on the other hand came from a wealthy family, was a local celebrity, and seemed to have a bright future ahead of him.

Despite their differences, Adelaide and Damien were young, wild, and fiercely in love. And they had a plan. They were going to run away. Be together forever. And their plan was set in motion, until tragedy struck and for some reason, Adelaide wound up in The Oakhill Institution for the insane.

Adelaide has no idea what she did to wind up at Oakhill, but she knows one thing for sure... She wants out.

And after Damien follows her there to aid her in escaping, Adelaide slowly begins putting together the pieces of her memory that are missing. And it doesn't take Adelaide long to figure out that sometimes... That one true love never dies.

Lauren posted an excerpt from the first chapter on her blog and my reaction was, "Wow, that's freakin amazing!" I had to read this, like immediately. And I wasn't disappointed. I mean a love story set in an insane asylum? It doesn't get more awesome than that. Addy claims she shouldn't be in the asylum, but the reader can tell that's not exactly true. She's trying to piece together her lost memories with the help of Dr. Watson, who seems to really care for Addy. But Addy's not all the concerned with recovering. All she wants it to run away with Damien, the love of her life. He's all she can think about and their stolen moments in the asylum are what she lives for. But things aren't what they seem. I mean, when your narrator is in an asylum, you have to question everything. I'm not giving spoilers because this book is seriously awesome with the twists and turns Hammond throws at you. And once you have that OMG moment, you can see how Hammond has been leading you to it so subtly that it's genius.

One thing I really loved was the way the story is told. There are "Before" and "After" chapters. The "Before" chapters take place when Addy is 17 and she falls for Damien. They give great insight into their relationship and also Addy's relationship with her abusive father. The "After" chapters are when Addy is in her early 20s in the asylum (in the 50s). Hammond weaves the two seamlessly as you piece together Addy's story. It's seriously brilliant.

I could gush forever, but I'll just say, Go read it!

Blog | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Miniview with Lauren Hammond

What's the craziest thing you did when you liked a guy?

Oh man... This is tough, lol. Honestly, I'm the shy type. I've never done anything truly crazy because I
get so nervous whenever any guy tries to talk to me.

Who was your big crush in high school?
Hmmm... This is another tough. LOL. Honestly, I didn't really have a thing for anyone in my school during high school.
But I will say that I had an ongoing crush on Leo Dicaprio that spanned from the first time I saw Titanic until the 10th grade.
Does that count?
(That so counts, Lauren! Ask my college roommate about my Leo posters in our room. ;P )

Love is...
Love is beautiful and dangerous at the same time.

Psst! I have a SUPER SWEET Secret...

2012-05-14T07:29:00.000-04:00

As you may remember—or can see from the slideshow on our sidebar—MY SUPER SWEET SIXTEENTH CENTURY had a cover reveal a couple months ago. And every single one of the bloggers involved were fantabulous. Y’all made that day so special and fun for me, and over the course of the day, I think I must’ve done at least a zillion happy dances. Complete with jazz hands J

I didn’t think it could get better…

…I’ve never been happier to be proven wrong.

A few weeks ago, the awesome peeps at Entangled Teen surprised me with a gift in my inbox: a brand new, beyond gorgeous, I-must-pinch-myself-because-this-is-totally-what-I-imagined-when-I-wrote-the-manuscript COVER!

*Cue the Rachel jig of joy*

Y’all, I know my future debut book (which hits bookstores September 11th) and I have already had our moment in the spotlight, and I couldn’t ask for more support than what you’ve already shown me. Seriously, you guys ROCK! But next Monday (the 21^st), I’m gonna reveal the SUPER SWEET—ha, I just can’t seem to help myself!—new cover here at YA Bound, and I’ll be honored if anyone chooses to join me.

To sign up, either leave a comment below or via email (yabound girls at gmail dot com) and give us your name, an email address to reach you, along with your blog URL, and we will send everything you need this weekend.

Along with the new prettiness, anyone who signs up will receive an exclusive new excerpt and a link to my book trailer to share!

And hey, if your blog schedule is full or if you can’t participate for any other reason, I totally get it. Believe me. J But, be sure to stop back by next Monday to see the new cover and enter for a chance to win a slew of swaggy prizes.

Thank you!

Spotlight: Until I Die by Amy Plum

2012-05-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Until I Die by Amy Plum
Publishing Company: HarperCollins Publishers
Genre: Young Adult—Paranormal, Romance
Pages: 352
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Rating: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Summary
Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.

As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake—and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

In Die for Me, Amy Plum created a captivating paranormal mythology with immortal revenants and a lush Paris setting. Until I Die is poised to thrill readers with more heart-pounding suspense, spellbinding romance, and a cliff-hanger ending that will leave them desperate for the third and final novel in the series.

Review
I think I just died a tiny bit on the inside. I can't even say that I'm joking or sugar-coating it. So, I was reading this all during school, and when I finally got near the ending, this big thing happened and I was in science (I know, reading in science, so bad), so I looked at the meter on my Kindle that tells me how much more there is in a book, and it said about 10% so I thought, "Phew. I still have time. This mess'll get fixed." And then I got closer and closer to the ending, and I got more and more panicky. Maybe it was going to end on a cliffhanger, but a good one, like in Pandemonium, how it ends with that one word that's good, but really nerve-racking at the same time. It'd be so much better than a tragic one, right?

Nope. Instead of a nice one that would definitely be nerve-racking but still somewhat happy, it had to be tragic and sad and I was actually tearing up. By this time, I was in LAL, and everyone was just trickling in, so I read it, and then that last page. That last page. And then this is what happened:

*Jumps up from my seat*
Me: {spoiler redacted}
Friend: What?
Me: In my book, {spoiler redacted}! *puts hair to face and almost starts crying.*
Friend: Aww, Eileen, it'll be okay. Don't cry.
Me: It's fine, but it was SOO sad!! :'(
*Sniffles during the rest of the LAL period.*

So yeah. That was my day. How was yours? Not as eventful, I'm guessing, as mine, because I started this book last night at nine, went to sleep at 10:30, and then, somehow, it was finished at 2:05 the next day. And that was with me at school. And I actually did my work. That's how good this book was. Because, guys, I know I read fast, but I've never actually finished a book in school without having had a full day of reading it beforehand.

Until I Die starts off basically a few months after Die For Me left off, so everything between Kate and Vincent had been happy, Kate was learning how to train and properly use a sword, and everybody was happy, you could say. But then Kate started doubting her and Vincent's relationship when she got all the signs that humans and revenants wouldn't work out together in the end, and Kate was starting to call it off when Vincent assured her otherwise that he had a plan that would most definitely work.

The romance in here definitely lacked a little, and there weren't those swoon-worthy moments anymore where Vincent and Kate would kiss a lot or share those tender moments. Sure, they were there, but not as much as in the first book, and Die For Me was definitely superior, as was Until I Die. Everything else definitely made up for this little blip in the novel. Until I Die was so emotional that I was laughing with Kate, crying with her, and I'm pretty sure I was making really funny faces to my friends if they saw me reading this book.

In Until I Die, Kate was strong, witty, and resilient. You could tell she loved Vincent and would do anything to be able to be with him and keep him from harm, which was what he was doing when he tried experimenting with ways that would keep him from having the compulsion to die. Kate was not afraid to get down and dirty, either, and she flew into things head-on and even when things got tough, Kate new that she had to stay strong to get her job done, and then she could cry and punch things when she was done.

This plot could not have been more perfect. Everything about Until I Die captured me and would not let go. It was like Amy Plum had me in a death-grip the entire time while I was reading this. It was action-packed, suspenseful, romantic, and so much more. And that cliffhanger was so brutally brutal and heartbreaking. I cannot stress this enough, but if you read this, please, get some tissues. You're going to start crying and weeping if you're emotional. I'm actually not that emotional, but I started tearing up.

Vincent! I loved him even more in this book. Yes, of course we didn't see a lot of him, but you could tell that he loved Kate and he was always there for her when she needed him most. Vincent is such a great person, and he's like that badboy type, but not really. He's dark and dangerous, but still, he loves Kate and it was so sweet to see them fall for each other even further, and I was feeling the love between them, which just made it easier for me to break at the end. (Wow, I just can't stop talking about that ending, right? I should stop.)

So, get this book. Just get it. Read it. Love it. Until I Die was an emotional roller coaster, and was so unpredictable I was assuming one thing and formulating a theory, when BAM, there goes the theory and all I could do was gape at the words I was reading. Everything about this book made me want to do something and stop reading, but then something else would draw me in and it was so easy to just lose myself in this book. Until I Die will not disappoint and all I know that it passed my expectations a long time ago.

(Originally published on my own blog, ***Singing and Reading in the Rain*** on May 12, 2012)

Harlequin's Q&A with Aimee Carter & Goddess Interrupted GIVEAWAY

2012-05-11T10:54:00.000-04:00

Q&A With Aimée Carter, Author of the Goddess Test Series

How familiar were you with Greek myths and folklore before writing the Goddess Test series? Was a lot of research required?

+ I first fell in love with Greek mythology when I was a kid learning how to read, and my infatuation only grew from there. I’ve studied various kinds of mythology for years, sometimes for class and always for fun, but even then I put a great deal of research into the Goddess Test series. Mostly as a refresher to make sure I was getting my facts right, but I also researched the various myths looking for ways to tie the plots and characters together in unexpected ways.

Was Goddess Interrupted any easier or harder to write than the first book in the series, The Goddess Test?

+ It was both easier and harder, in a strange way. I rewrote The Goddess Test multiple times, and I’ve never edited a book more heavily in my life. Goddess Interrupted did require some editing, of course, but it was much easier.

However, the pressure to deliver a sequel worthy of the series made the writing process for Goddess Interrupted more difficult than I’d anticipated. There’s something called the “sophomore slump”, where sequels or second books generally don’t quite match up to the second, and I wanted to avoid that at all cost. So that added a lot of stress, but in the end, I was very happy with the results.

You give the gods and goddesses in the series “ordinary names” – Zeus is named Walter, Aphrodite goes by Ava, Hermes is named James. Why did you do that and do the more contemporary names have any significance?

+ This was something I went back and forth on multiple times. Initially the characters Kate encounters weren’t council members at all – I changed that very, very quickly though. By the second draft, I had a place for each of the Olympians, and I did some heavy rewriting to replace my first draft characters with the gods. I wanted to find a way to keep their names the same, but since they’re supposed to live among us in secret in the modern world, it didn’t really make sense. How many men named Zeus do you know, or women called Aphrodite? On top of that, keeping the council’s identities secret was incredibly important to the plot. So eventually I decided they would have changed their names when Western civilization stopped worshipping them as gods, allowing them to live freely among us.

I did choose each name for what it means, some more than others – Walter, for instance, means “army leader”, while James means “supplanter”. The exception is Calliope, which in the story was chosen by her counterpart for its Greek roots. The reason the gods changed their names – and why Artemis didn’t wind up with the name Diana – is explained throughout the series, but you get to actually see this happen in The Goddess Legacy (July 31).

Goddess Interrupted begins with the main character Kate Winters adjusting to her new life as an immortal. Given Kate’s innate strength and stubbornness, was it difficult to switch gears to portray her as a bit more vulnerable and unsure of herself in her new role as goddess AND wife?

+ Not so much, to be honest – her progression felt natural to me. While Kate is very tough in certain ways, she’s extremely vulnerable as well. She’s emotionally dependent on the people around her (her mother in the first book, Henry in the second), and that in and of itself carves the path she takes in the sequel. She’s spent six months with Henry, falling in love with him and forming a relationship she thinks is going to last for eternity. But Henry is battling his own demons and isn’t ready to be the person she needs him to be, and because Kate is so stubborn, she has a hard time coming to terms with that. In the sequel, Kate really is her own worst enemy emotionally – her entire world has changed, after all, and that’s a lot for anyone to take – but it’s all part of her development into a goddess and queen.

Kate finds herself trying to work through her rather complicated relationship with James, as well as her relationship with her new husband, Henry (Hades). Neither seems to be black and white, but rather varying shades of gray. Were any of Kate’s feelings or situations based on any relationship struggles you’ve been through?

+ Not personally, no, but I did try to make Kate’s relationships with the people in her life as realistic as possible. She isn’t perfect, and neither are they, and that’s something they all have to work through at varying points in the series. None of the relationships in the books are based off of specific experiences I’ve been through though.

What is your favorite part of the writing process? Least favorite?

+ Outlining is by far my favorite part of the process. I love the idea stage, where anything’s possible, and it’s such a shiny place. All of that comes crashing down when I write the first draft though, which is the hardest part for me. I tend to get mentally exhausted about two thirds to three quarters of the way into the manuscript, and it’s always a struggle for me to push through it, especially if I’m on a deadline. And inevitably there are a ton of problems I didn’t notice in the outline stage that have to be fixed for the story to work. I’m a perfectionist, so in order for me to continue writing the story, everything I’ve already written has to make sense.

Do you have a favorite quote or line from a poem or book?

+ I love so many quotes that I couldn’t possibly pick a favorite.

How did you get your first publishing deal and how did that feel?

+ My agent, Rosemary Stimola, sent the manuscript out to various publishers, and after a long submission process, Harlequin TEEN offered to publish it! I was stunned at first, but that quickly gave way to giddiness. It was an incredible feeling to know I’d be published, and to this day, I still can’t quite believe it.

When is the next book in the series due out? Any hints on what will happen in book 3?

+ Goddess Interrupted, the sequel to The Goddess Test, came out in late March. The next book in the series, The Goddess Legacy, will be out July 31. It’s a collection of five novellas told in the perspectives of Calliope, Ava, Persephone, James, and Henry, and together they form one story.

The third book in the series, The Goddess Inheritance, is currently scheduled to be released in March 2013. Unfortunately I can’t say too much about it, but the challenges that Kate will face are pretty clear by the end of the sequel!

After the huge success of The Goddess Test, Goddess Interrupted is on many, many TBR lists for this summer. What’s on your TBR list?

+ I’m so excited for a slew of books coming out – The Girl in the Clockwork Collar, Grave Mercy, The Selection, The Serpent’s Shadow, Philippa Gregory’s YA novel, and a ton of others. I never have as much time to read as I want, but I’m definitely making time for all of those and more!

Yearbook Superlatives! If you went to high school with the Greek gods and goddesses, who would you vote for?

· Most likely to succeed? - Hera

· Class clown? - Hermes

· Nicest? – Demeter or Hephaestus

· Best dressed? - Aphrodite

· Best dancer? - Apollo

· Most school spirit? - Iris

· Most likely to attend summer school? - Ares

· Teachers pet? - Athena

Click here to check out YA Bound's Spotlight of Goddess Interrupted.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Swoon Thursday (39)

2012-05-10T06:38:00.006-04:00

It's that time again! We created a HOT meme, and if you're new to the game, here's how to join in the fun:

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering.

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! We want to know :-)

Without further ado, here's ours:

RACHEL: So this Tuesday I spotlighted Meg Cabot's UNDERWORLD, an ABANDON novel.... I know I happened to Swoon over this one last week, but dude, I'm still swooning over my man John, and there was another moment that just had to be celebrated. So, here is a second swoon-errific moment, brought to you by Pierce and John....and Meg, of course. Enjoy :)

First, the Twitter swoon:

His mouth and tongue so commanding any token resistance I might have considered putting up was quickly forgotten-UNDERWORLD Swoon #YABound

And now, the extended bloggy version:

I never got to finish the question. Instead, his lips came down over mine, his mouth and tongue so commanding that any token resistance I might have considered putting up was quickly forgotten...not only because there didn't seem to be any point, but because I realized the truth:

I wanted him every bit as much as he wanted me.

TARA: Totally swooning over THE WEEPERS by Susanne Winnaker:

Twitter Version:

His lips brushed against mine, his palms warm against my cheeks.

Extended Bloggy Version:

His lips brushed against mine, his palms warm against my cheeks. Our kiss tasted of blood and tears. Of rain and dirt. Of pain and relief. And more than anything, it was a promise. An oath to never let anything happen to the other.

Kelly: Swooning over THE SHAPESHIFTER'S SECRET:

Twitter version:

Julia felt a surge of energy and quickly stepped toward Terrence pressing her lips to his.--The Shapeshifter's Secret SWOON #YABound

NEREYDA: Swooning over Jennifer L Armentrout's ONYX:

When his hands inched under my shirt, it was as though he reached deep inside me, warming every cell, filling every dark space within me with the heat from his skin.

Touching him, kissing him, was like having a fever all over again. I was on fire. My body burned. Sparks flew. Against his mouth, I moaned.

JJ: Swooning over REVIVED:

I say, "I love you." I know he can't hear me, but I put it out into the universe anyway. And for now, that's enough --Revived #YABound

EILEEN: Swooning over OF POSEIDON:

Twitter approved:

He brushes his lips against hers, cutting her off. They're softer than he ever imagined. And it's not enough--OF POSEIDON Swoon #YABound

And the extended bloggy version:

He brushes his lips against hers, cutting her off. They're softer than he ever imagined. And it's not enough. Moving his hand from her jawline to entwine it in her damp locks, he pulls her to him. She tips up on her toes to meet him and as he lifts her from the ground, she folds her arms around his neck. Just as hungry for him as he is for her, she opens her mouth for a deeper kiss, pressing her soft curves into him. And Galen decides there is nothing better than kissing Emma.

TRISH:

"And so she clung to him to push them away, pressed herself against him. She felt the length of his body against hers; she felt his hands. She heard his whispers, let him fill her ears and her skin. She kissed him. When he responded to her kisses, she kissed him more." ~Bitterblue SWOON #YABound

SO NOW IT'S YOUR TURN: In 140 characters . . . or, perhaps a bit more if you need to cheat LOL, SWOON us!

Spotlight: The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda

2012-05-09T04:00:00.001-04:00

Publication Date: 05/08/2012

From St. Martin's Griffin

Hardcover, 293 pages

Buy it on Amazon

Don’t Sweat. Don’t Laugh. Don’t draw attention to yourself. And most of all, whatever you do, do not fall in love with one of them.

Gene is different from everyone else around him. He can’t run with lightning speed, sunlight doesn’t hurt him and he doesn’t have an unquenchable lust for blood. Gene is a human, and he knows the rules. Keep the truth a secret. It’s the only way to stay alive in a world of night—a world where humans are considered a delicacy and hunted for their blood.

When he’s chosen for a once in a lifetime opportunity to hunt the last remaining humans, Gene’s carefully constructed life begins to crumble around him. He’s thrust into the path of a girl who makes him feel things he never thought possible—and into a ruthless pack of hunters whose suspicions about his true nature are growing. Now that Gene has finally found something worth fighting for, his need to survive is stronger than ever—but is it worth the cost of his humanity?

I know there are a lot of people out there who are “over” the vampire phenomenon, but I’m just not one of them. I can’t get enough. And when a book like this comes along that turns everything else I’ve read upside down, I get all giddy inside. ;)

I loved how completely unique this story was. Truly a much different twist on the vampire stories we see again and again. One: the story is told from a male's POV which I love. Gene was a great character that I no trouble connecting with. Two: We have this vampire plot that is flip flopped from what we normally see. In this story humans are the minority and vampires have the numbers. I am so used to seeing books with a vampire trying to hide and fit into a human society, that seeing the roles reversed was really interesting. For Gene the tables are turned and he has to pretend to be a vampire to survive, going to lengths as extreme as wearing fake teeth and concealing his human smell. Three: The cover. I usually don’t mention the cover in a review, but I have to say they got it right with this book. The cover was the first thing that drew me in and the story inside didn’t disappoint.

Overall I say this was a well written book with a fresh and interesting plot line. I would recommend to anyone who likes paranormal suspense or is looking for a new vampire book that totally breaks out of the box.

And because I am in love with the killer book trailer, I'm posting that too. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

TARA

Author Website

Goodreads

Twitter

Book Birthday Spotlight: UNDERWORLD by Meg Cabot

2012-05-08T08:37:00.001-04:00

Publication Date: May 8, 2012 by Point
Hardcover 336 pages
ABANDON BOOK 2

Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back.

Seventeen-year-old Pierce Oliviera isn’t dead.

Not this time.

But she is being held against her will in the dim, twilit world between heaven and hell, where the spirits of the deceased wait before embarking upon their final journey.

Her captor, John Hayden, claims it’s for her own safety. Because not all the departed are dear. Some are so unhappy with where they ended up after leaving the Underworld, they’ve come back as Furies, intent on vengeance…on the one who sent them there and on the one whom he loves.

But while Pierce might be safe from the Furies in the Underworld, far worse dangers could be lurking for her there…and they might have more to do with its ruler than with his enemies.

And unless Pierce is careful, this time there’ll be no escape.

I love Greek mythology retellings, especially the various Hades and Persephone versions that have been so popular in the YA market the past year. ABANDON by Meg Cabot was one of my favorites so I was eager to see where she took her reimagining in the sequel, UNDERWORLD. And to be honest, I enjoyed this one even more than the first.

It’s hard to talk about second books in reviews in case anyone missed the first, so I will try to leave out particular plot points. But what I can say is how pleasantly surprised I was to see Cabot avoiding so many obvious choices. From the description above you know Pierce is a character stuck between two worlds. Stuck between the living and the dead and between the boy she loves and the family she left behind. But beyond that, the description, to be honest, is not that accurate. After reading the blurb, I totally expected a typical second book where one of the central struggles, if not the main one, is the relationship between Pierce and John. And yes, we do discover things about John’s character meant to shock and confuse us, BUT that was not the main conflict. If anything, the main conflict was inside of Pierce.

Pierce is a strong character who is in touch with her emotions and can think on her feet. I felt much more connected with her in this sequel. I didn’t find her whiney, like she so could’ve been, or weak, or even overly aggressive. She was just a normal girl, one I could see myself in….well, if I had become the consort of a death deity. And John was simply scrumptious. Romance fans will be happy to know he is around for almost the entire book, so we get to know him a lot better. We also get to explore the depth of their relationship, their feelings, and their future. We’re also introduced to a ton of fresh characters who keep the plot fun and moving quickly.

For fans of Greek mythology retellings who love a spunky voice, this offering by Meg Cabot (arguably the queen of YA Contemporary) is not to be missed.

To read excerpts, head over to Meg Cabot's UNDERWORLD page here

Author Website / Goodreads / Twitter

Guest Post: The Why of NUNCIO AND THE GYPSY GIRL IN THE GILDED AGE By Kristin Kuhns Alexandre

2012-05-07T06:55:00.000-04:00

Nuncio and the Gypsy Girl in the Gilded Age is the 1900’s story of Neci Stans, a gypsy at the bottom of the social ladder but a force of nature, a woman whose passion and force of personality cause hope and change wherever she goes.

I always wanted to develop a story based on a strong woman who would follow her dreams and at the same time end up with the man who is the object of her affection. That’s not an easy thing, even today. Our culture resists strong women and puts them down. But this lowly but self -confident teenage gypsy girl knows who and what she wants.

Dayton’s Gypsy community has always been a mystery to me. They were much respected in Dayton before World War One because they were excellent horse breeders and trainers and they were church -goers as well. Dayton gypsies declared themselves ‘royal’ but nonetheless, people did not mingle with them. I finally figured out that World War one was the end for the gypsies. Their horse skills were no longer relevant. They were forced to leave or intermarry.

You could compare the Dayton of 1917 to the Silicon Valley of today. It was an incubator for new ideas and inventions. Nuncio and the Gypsy Girl is the story of America’s loss of innocence and our emergence into the world scene.

Intense, passionate, and thrilling—Nuncio is a romantic thriller series for anyone wanting a good read (or even perhaps a good television series). Come on this journey filled with drama and mystery. Nuncio is a romantic thriller based on the intense and passionate relationship between Ezra, a composer and the insightful and lustful gypsy girl Neci. This graphic novel series is narrated by the magical African Grey Parrot, Nuncio and takes place at the turn of the Century.

Neci, the young and willful gypsy, is willing to risk everything to fulfill her need to be with Ezra, the object of her affection. She feels a calling to protect Ezra from his love, Marlene, a beautiful pianist. We hear her mental wanderings and feel her pain as she struggles to make a place for herself in Ezra’s world. She feels no connection to girls her own age and Ezra struggles to resist her allure. This drama and romantic thriller is based on real people and real events that take place between 1912-1960. Ezra interacts with Orville Wright, Charles Kettering and Elbert Hubbard, celebrities from the day.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Kristin Kuhns Alexandre is a fifth generation Daytonian whose father, grandfather and uncle all worked for the family pipe fitting company. Like many young people in the Midwest, Kristin yearned to abandon her roots and move east.

Nuncio and the Gypsy Girl in the Gilded Age is the first in a series of three graphic novels. “Neci Stans is an upwardly mobile gypsy but her story is really my story as well,” the author explains. “My friends and I all yearned to move away to a more glamorous life. And many of us did that and discovered that Dayton is not so bad after all.”

Kristin worked as a publicist, news reporter and talk show host in New York City and is the author of two relationship books: “Find a Great Guy: Now and Forever” and “The Perfect Gentleman: the Secrets Rich Girls Use to Choose the Classiest Guys”. Kirkus Reviews gave this book a glowing review:

Neci and her story are being developed into a television pilot and you may also follow Kristin’s

Twitter, and her website.

Kristin resides in Delray Beach, Fla. with her husband, two children, two dogs and two cats.

Guest Post: Author Amy Lignor Twitter Party

2012-05-04T07:12:00.000-04:00

A Walk on the “Warrior” Side

I know that most souls want to speak with Emily but she owes me one, so today you’ve got me. My name is Matt. I’m the warrior side of this little angelic partnership that Emily and I have, and - believe me -I’m the one who desperately wants to come back down there

When Emily told me that our ‘story’ was coming out for everyone to read, I was a little worried about it. I mean, at times I didn’t look all that great the first time around. But after you read it, you’ll understand that I was there to do my job. I had no idea I would end up getting wrapped up in all that emotional stuff. I like being down there…having freedom and everything…but I was completely blind-sided that Emily would go from my best friend to the girl who would steal my heart, and then have the nerve to fall in love with Jason. Boy, is HE a pain in the wing!

Emily told me that’s over now. She says that she knows the feelings she had for Jason will pass now that he’s gone. But, oddly enough, while our teachers were telling us about this new ‘Gilded Age’ that we’re headed in to, it sounds like Jason isn’t going to be too far away. And before you ask, yes. If I have to fight him, if I have to fight for her, I will.

Until Next Time shows you the beginning, and you’ll read about a location that seems a bit harsh. But since Emily and I have been training forever up here and battling in the horrific ‘pit’ you’ll read about, down there seemed like a breeze compared to our normal day. Of course, up here we can’t even get a bruise.

The training here is severe. Emily’s pretty quick with a sword, and even though she knows she deserves to take a ‘blow’ once in a while, her pride (which she’s not even supposed to have) just won’t let her do it. Her wings always expand when she’s had enough; or, more to the point, when she knows I’m winning. They’re bright pearl, which is actually nice to look at, except when she’s about to lose the match; they come out and she disappears.

Emily and I have sat beside each other in classes that have taught us everything from how to deal with ‘dark’ situations to how to save, defend and protect you. But I have to give you guys the credit - having such huge souls filled with all those emotions ALL the time is rough. Whether they’re used for the infliction of pain, or for the absolute passion you have for one another, they certainly are confusing. And, your imaginations? I give you credit for those too. I swear, you’re the only creatures I’ve ever met who have the power to have fantastic dreams and horrific nightmares all at the same time. You’re lucky, you know? You get to feel it all. That’s why I want to go back. Emily had more to think about…she saw me differently when we were human.

When you read our story I hope you can see that there was a reason for everything. I know a whole lot more now, yet the hardest thing is still trying to keep my faith in a world that’s trying to rip me apart. But no matter what happens, Emily and I will continue until we get it right.

Until Next Time, Everybody.

Matt

By the way…I guess you guys have been so great about reading and talking about our story, some ‘event’ is going to be happening down there pretty soon. Maybe I’ll join you!

Twitter Party
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
8 p.m. Eastern

Follow hashtag #UntilNextTime as author Amy Lignor answers your questions for 90 minutes live on Twitter. A $50 cash prize will be given to the person who has a receipt confirming an ebook purchase of Until Next Time and tweets at least once during the Twitter Party. We'll also be giving away a variety of ebooks and print books throughout the event. Let us know if you are planning to attend by tweeting @TributeBooks or @HelloWritersAmy to RSVP.

Guest Post: Author Heather McCorkle on World Wildlife Fund

2012-05-04T07:04:00.000-04:00

This story was born when I was watching a special on the shrinking habitat for polar bears. There was a commercial with a teen girl talking about saving endangered species and Eren’s character sprung up from that. The story of Spruce Knoll and it's inhabitants is the story of our world and what's happening to it.

I've always been inspired to do something about the increasing rate of extinction of many of our animals. When I became an author I found my way to do that. A portion of the proceeds of The Secret Of Spruce Knoll (from every copy sold, in every format) will go toward saving endangered species. My goal is to raise $10,000 by 12-12-2012, but that is a lot of books and I realize I may not reach it. I figured, why not try though?! If by some miracle I do raise that much then I will continue to donate a portion of the proceeds of Spruce Knoll for another year.

Due to legal reasons I can’t say who the charity is that I donate to, but I can tell you that they are one of the top charities in the world that specializing in protecting endangered species. They’ve made great strides in preserving habitat, stopping poachers, and even helping to bring species back from the brink. But I can tell you that there are wonderful sites all over the internet but two of my favorites are the World Wildlife Fund and the National Wildlife Federation.

The situation for many endangered species is terribly sad. Tigers will be extinct in the wild in less than ten years. And unfortunately, they are only one on a long list of creatures that will be gone before this decade is over. Together we can make a difference though and that's exactly what I intend to do, and what you'll be doing whenever you buy a copy of The Secret Of Spruce Knoll. You can help by purchasing a copy for yourself, a friend, or a loved one, or by giving directly to one of the many amazing charities that help endangered species.

Heather is the author of The Secret Of Spruce Knoll, Born Of Fire, Channeler's Choice, and coming in May of 2012, the historical YA fantasy, To Ride A Puca. A short story of Heather's is also available in the free In His Eyes eBook anthology.

Swoon Thursday (38)

2012-05-03T06:39:00.000-04:00

It's that time again! We created a HOT meme, and if you're new to the game, here's how to join in the fun:

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering.

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! We want to know :-)

Without further ado, here's ours:

RACHEL: My read this week is Meg Cabot's UNDERWORLD, an ABANDON novel. I love this series, and my man John? Well, I think as a death diety, he brings new meaning to the word bad boy. And you know I love me some bad boys :)

First, the Twitter swoon:

He reached out to take me by the waist and pull me against him, then lowered his mouth to mine and kissed me--UNDERWORLD Swoon #YABound

And now, the extended bloggy version:

He looked puzzled. "Why would I do that, when I waited almost two centuries to find you?" As he spoke, he reached out to take me by the waist and pull me against him, then lowered his mouth to mine and kissed me with a thoroughness that left no doubt in my mind that he had no intention of abandoning me anywhere.

TARA: Totally swooning over INSURGENT by: Veronica Roth

Twitter Version:

I can't stop. I fit my mouth to his, and he tastes like water and smells like fresh air.

Extended Bloggy Version:

He touches my face, covering my cheeks with his hands, sliding his fingertips down my neck, fitting his fingers to the slight curve of my hips.

I can't stop

I fit my mouth to his, and he tastes like water and smells like fresh air. I drag my hand from his neck to the small of his back, and put it under his shirt. He kisses me harder.

Kelly: Swooning over INSANITY by Lauren Hammond:

Twitter version:

We don't even make it a step before he tugs on my lower lip with his teeth and presses into my body, pinning me against the side of my house.--INSANITY SWOON #YABound

Extended Bloggy Version:

My eyes flit over to Damien's. His blue eyes cut into the darkness, a needy hungry look in them. At the same time I feel like my skin is itching for his touch. After a few more seconds, I'm at the window and Damien has me by the waist, lifting me out the window and lowering me to the ground. We don't even make it a step before he tugs on my lower lip with his teeth and presses into my body, pinning me against the side of my house. My hands are in his hair and his tongue slips between my lips and I breathe softly into his mouth.

JJ: Also swooning over INSURGENT by Veronica Roth:

"Sleep", he says, "I'll fight the bad dreams off if they come to get you"
"With what?"
"My bare hands obviously" -Insurgent #YABound

EILEEN: Swooning over OF POSEIDON:

Twitter approved:

He brushes his lips against hers, cutting her off. They're softer than he ever imagined. And it's not enough--OF POSEIDON Swoon #YABound

And the extended bloggy version:

He brushes his lips against hers, cutting her off. They're softer than he ever imagined. And it's not enough. Moving his hand from her jawline to entwine it in her damp locks, he pulls her to him. She tips up on her toes to meet him and as he lifts her from the ground, she folds her arms around his neck. Just as hungry for him as he is for her, she opens her mouth for a deeper kiss, pressing her soft curves into him. And Galen decides there is nothing better than kissing Emma.

TRISH: "You're beautiful." I brushed her hair over her shoulder, away from her face, watching her kiss her way back to my mouth. "Every single bit of you." I shopped breathing when she tugged her sweater over her head to reveal an ivory lace camisole...Reaching out, I drew a line with my index finger from her bottom lip to the button on her jeans. --TIMEPIECE SWOON #YABound

SO NOW IT'S YOUR TURN: In 140 characters . . . or, perhaps a bit more if you need to cheat LOL, SWOON us!

Blog Tour: Night Sky by Jolene Perry Guest Post

2012-05-02T09:31:00.001-04:00

What's funny is that I almost always have people in mind when I'm writing. It helps me flesh out what the characters look like, how they move . . .

But Jameson escaped me for a LOOOONG time. Every time I thought of someone, I'd look at the pictures, and they weren't quite right. Part of the problem is that I see Jameson with a shaved head for swim team, and it's hard to picture some of those cute guys with shaggy hair, without their hair, lol. And when I did find guys with shaved heads, more than not were also covered in tattoos. BUT I finally found him.

Carlos Pena from Big Time Rush. He's got a great smile, he's a bit of a hottie, but there's something on the wholesome side about him . . . I don't know. I could just be seeing things I want to see. And if it works, I'm totally fine with that.

And then Sarah - the sweet, bouncy best friend he's been in love with for WAAY too long . . . I could have used a million different girls for her, but I love Julianne Hough - only less naughty than she was in Footloose ;-D

When I first wrote Sky, she looked like Tia Carrere (Wayne's World . . . you know, just to totally date me) but the more I wrote, and thought about her, I think she's more like Julia Jones. Just look at those cheekbones! I love that (to me) she looks even better when she's less made up.

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After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year.

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