UPDATE!! SUPER IMPORTANT!!

So, I've been made aware that my blog is kind of confusing...ogcmat..what in the heck is that?  Yeah, you can click on the "info" section, and figure it out...but soon this blog is going to change name, and necessarily change URL.

The new name?

You wanna know, right?  :P

Only God Writes Trees

The new url?

onlygodwritestrees.blogspot.com

Hopefully that will be easier to remember and a little less confusing.  :)

Don't worry - I'll keep reminding you all!

This switch-over will happen Nov 7.

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with this change?  LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS!!

REVIEW: "Hers to Choose" - by Patricia Knight (Virtual Book Tour Cafe)

 BLURB

"Mentally scarred from her years as prisoner to the off-world invaders, Lady Sophillia Glorianna DeLorion, doubts she can be a fit sexual partner for any man – even one whose passionate green eyes make her remember what it is to desire.

Commander of the Queen’s Royal Guard, Eric DeStroia had grown up watching the corrosive, soul-killing effects of arranged, aristocratic marriage and vowed to remain alone. But under his hardened military exterior, Eric has a kind heart. When the second Tetriarch suggests he marry a noble woman rescued from the enemy, Eric reconsiders, consoling himself with visions of sheltering a wounded dove under his mighty arm. Instead, he discovers a fierce falcon that refuses to stoop to his lure.

In the aftermath of their resounding defeat, a survivor from the enemy camp plotted a return to Verdantia to exact retribution. His first objective is the recapture of Lady Sophillia DeLorion. She had been unreachable until she went to the Oshtesh. Now, only Eric DeStroia stands in his way."

Amazon

Genre - Fantasy Romance

Publisher - Troll River Publishing

Release Date – 7/15/2013

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Patricia A. Knight is the pen name for an eternal romantic who lives in Dallas, Texas surrounded by her horses, dogs and the best man on the face of the earth – oh yeah, and the most enormous bullfrogs you will ever see. Word to the wise: don’t swim in the pool after dark.

I love to hear from my readers and can be reached at http://www.trollriverpub.com/ or http://www.patriciaaknight.com . Or send me an email at patriciaknight190 at gmail.com . Check out my latest “Hunk of the Day,” book releases, contests and other fun stuff on my face book page: https://www.facebook.com/patricia.knight.71619

WEBSITE  *  FACEBOOK  *  TWITTER  *  GOODREADS  *  PINTEREST

REVIEW

Women around the world are mishandled, abused, made to feel as though they are less than nothing.  This maltreatment causes many to withdraw into shells, building walls thousands of feet high in an attempt to never be hurt ever again.  For that matter, this happens to men to.  What happens, however, when someone broaches that wall with barely trying?  What happens when the protective defenses of a planet are literally fueled by two lovers tending one another?  What happens when evil tries to conquer love?

COVER REVEAL: "Fragile Brilliance" by Tammy Blackwell (Mark My Words Book Publicity)

What happens when you plan out your future - it is your future, after all! - and then that future is just a smidge derailed and there's not much you can do about it?

Today is the cover reveal for Fragile Brilliance (Shifters and Seers #1) by Tammy Blackwell!  (I happen to love this cover, and am just howling to get a chance at reading this lovely book!

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"Maggie McCray has worked her whole life for the opportunity to attend Sanders College. It’s her one chance at becoming a world-renowned artist, and she’s determined nothing will get in her way. But when a murder brings Maggie and her powers to the attention of the Alpha Pack and the tragically handsome Charlie Hagan, her carefully planned future hangs in jeopardy.

Charlie Hagan isn’t happy when the Alpha Female assigns him as Maggie McCray’s personal bodyguard. Just being near the Thaumaturgic threatens to unleash the primal instincts he’s been suppressing for so long. Charlie knows if the coyote is uncaged, then the person he’ll most need to protect Maggie from is himself.

Fragile Brilliance is the first book in the Shifters & Seers series by Tammy Blackwell, bestselling author of the Timber Wolves trilogy."  

It releases on Tuesday November 26, 2013. 

 Add it your want to read list on Goodreads.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tammy Blackwell is a Young Adult Services Coordinator for a public library system in Kentucky. When she's not reading, writing, cataloging, or talking about books, she's sleeping.

Website  *  Twitter  *  Goodreads

REVIEW: "Be Brilliant...Be Bold...Be Beautiful You" - by BK Walker (Virtual Book Tour Cafe)

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"If you could reach for your dreams and become the author you've always wanted to be, would you do it?

BK Walker is here to help. She will hold your hand and guide you through the entire process from an idea for a book to actually writing it, getting published, and marketing your book for sales, helping you reach your dreams and live your passions.

In this book you will learn:

-How to put your ideas into writing
-How you can write your book in one weekend
-When to start building your author platform
-How to decide which type of publishing is for you (Self-Publishing vs. Traditional)
-Cover Designing to capture your readers
-Writing Killer Synopsis' to close the sale
-Creating a marketing plan
-Marketing on a Shoestring Budget
-Free Writing & Marketing Strategies at bkwalkerscafe.com

If you're ready to put your dream of writing into action, then this book is for you. It's time for you to Be Brilliant...Be Bold...and Be Beautiful You!"
AMAZON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jack of all trades, master of none. BK Walker is first and foremost a mother and a wife. With three beautiful children and a wonderful husband, she enjoys her days living on their farm in Eastern Pennsylvania. Her writing began when she was a child, reading Nancy Drew mysteries and always telling stories to her imaginary friends and stuffed animals.  When BK’s not writing, she manages her time organizing virtual book tours for other authors, and helping her husband as a consultant in their jointly owned business. Putting most of her time into research, BK is always seeking for the most effective ways to market and promote books and business alike. She sees ghosts when she least expects it, LOVES Cheesecake, and HATES peas! Art is a secondary love, and you may often find her sketches popping up on one of her blogs, or simply catch her reading the magic created in the pages of a great novel. Who knows? It just may be yours.

Email  *  Facebook * Twitter * Pinterest * Linkedin * Goodreads

REVIEW
Has anyone ever told you "you should really write a book" and you've thought they may be right, but had absolutely no friggin idea how to get started?  Have you ever walked through the day while narrating what happened as though those in your life were characters in the latest best-selling novel?  Have you ever dreamed of seeing your name in a movie right next to the caption "inspired by the best-selling novel...."?  Writing is a daunting task, yes, but would you be encouraged to take that next step if you knew what that next step looked like?

REVIEW: "If You Were Me and Lived in Norway" - by Carole P. Roman (Fire and Ice Book Tours)

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"Join Carole P. Roman on a trip to the Northern Hemisphere and learn about Norway - The Land Of the Midnight Sun. In this exciting series, children are able to read about the many things we share in this great, big world of ours. If You Were Me and Lived in...Norway describes many things that make that country unique and fun. Readers will be able to learn about the capital, common names, a beloved holiday, as well as favorite food and other fun facts. This book is an excellent introduction for those beginners who want to learn about the many thrilling places and great people who share our planet."

Genres: Children, Multicultural, and Nonfiction

GOODREADS  *  AMAZON (print)  *  AMAZON (kindle)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012 for her first book, award winning author Carole P. Roman started writing as a dare from one of her sons. Using an imaginary game she played with her grandson as a base, Captain No Beard was born."Captain No Beard- An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life" has not only been named to Kirkus Best of 2012, it received the Star of Remarkable Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award for 2012. "Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience" Book 2 in the series, received 5 Stars from The ForeWord Review The Clarion Review. It has followed with six more books to the series.  Motivated by her love of yoga, Roman has written a book that not only teaches four poses, but shows how easy and accessible yoga can be. 

Her new non fiction series, "If You Were Me and Lived in..." combines her teaching past with her love of exploration and interest in the world around us. The debut book in the series, "If You Were Me and Lived in...Mexico" has won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children's Non Fiction 2012. France, South Korea, and Norway. They will be followed with Kenya, Turkey, India, and Australia. She plans to do Portugal, Greece, and Argentina next year.

Writing for children has opened up a whole second act for her. While she is still working in her family business, this has enabled her to share her sense of humor as well as love for history and culture with the audience she adores. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children.

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE  *  FACEBOOK, FACEBOOK, FACEBOOK  *  BLOG  *  TWITTER  *   WEBSITE  *  GOODREADS  *  PINTEREST 

REVIEW

Many little kids dream of visiting different countries, and/or want to learn more about people who live in other countries.  In seeking out a book to help teach children about different countries, parents want to find something that is informative and takes children's curiosity and ability to absorb information seriously.  

Restaurant Review - My Huong Kitchen

     A few weeks ago, my husband, Dibbun (my son - not his real name, a nickname stolen from Brian Jacques books), and I went to the Minnesota Renaissance Festival.  Husband and I went to this nearly every year before Dibbun was born, and this was the first time that our 18-month-old son was able to attend.  

     Partway through the day, Dibbun began making the noises that every parent recognizes, the noises of a hungry child.  It was a hot day.  Very hot.  Like, melt-a-candy-bar-on-your-toes kind of hot (90+ degrees).  Dibbun was cranky because it was so hot...and he was hungry.

     Well, being at Renaissance Festival meant that Husband and I were wearing costumes.  Women's costumes notoriously don't have pockets, so I didn't have my wallet. 

Baby was hungry. 

     My husband had his wallet, so I trucked off to a restaurant booth to retrieve ye old num nums for Dibbun.

Baby was very hungry.

     Food was ordered, made, and handed to a Momma eager to appease a hungry Dibbun.  Momma reached for Husband's credit card...and knew by the look on the lady's face that they must not take card.  We had no cash.

Baby was hungry.

     The woman behind the counter, who is the owner of the restaurant, told me to go "feed your baby" and come back to pay later.  After settling down with Dibbun to give him the newly acquired food, I sent Husband across the Festival to the ATMs to fetch cash.  Upon arriving at the ATMs, he realized the only card we had was credit, not debit.  Credit cards don't give cash out of ATMs...at least not this one.

     Dibbun was not taking much of the offered food anyways because he was too hot (we got him cooled down, don't worry) and I gingerly picked up the plate of food and headed back towards the food booth with my tail tucked between my legs.  
   
     The owner was AMAZING!  I explained the situation, and she said "feed your baby, don't worry about it".  Seriously.  She restored some of my faith in humanity right there.  I felt like an absolute cad...I am not one to order food and then leave without paying.  We got caught in an awkward situation, and she totally bailed us out.  So to the owner of "My Huong Kitchen", THANK YOU!!  You are totally a lifesaver!!!

     My son LOVED the food.  I LOVED the food!!  The food at this place is amazing, the service is amazing...it is pretty much amazing.  I shall always go by their booth whenever I see it anywhere...hopefully this time with cash in hand.  : )

My Huong Kitchen

2718 Nicollet Ave.,  

Ste 101B

Minneapolis, MN 55408

Neighborhood: Whittier

(612) 872-2323

BLITZ: "Phase One: Identify" - by Rose Winters (Fire and Ice Book Tours)

Blurb

"A letter found on the clear glass case of the only gun shop in Pleasant, LA

Hello,

My name is Tabitha Alexanders. Congratulations. If you're reading this letter, you're one of the survivors from the zombie apocalypse. Take care, or you won't last for long.

I'm 18 and just graduated this year. I didn't get to enjoy it, though. I was working at the grocery store as a checkout girl when the first body slammed against the clear glass. I'll never forget the fear that washed over me at the sight of his red, hungry eyes. That night marked the loss of my innocence.... And my freedom.

Now my life is something different. No longer can we take the basic things like safety and food for granted, not to mention our lives. The zombies destroyed our entire town that first night, including the family of the college guy I had a crush on in the past. We were able to save him, but he's not the same. He's different, but so am I.

Our numbers are extremely small, but the humans have united. A new group of survivors is emerging in this nightmarish world.... And we aren't afraid to fight dirty if it ensures our survival.

We had to leave Pleasant in order to save our lives. We barely made it out alive. These zombies are entirely different than the way I'd always seen on television. They are fast, preternaturally strong, and even aware. They used that awareness to discover our small group of survivors hidden within our home. If it wasn't for Kellan we'd be dead right now, wandering the streets of Pleasant.

Kellan is something completely different than any man I've ever seen before. He's too powerful and too controlled to ever be anything like the average male. I can't explain him, but I'm glad he's on our side. Heaven help us all if he ever decides we're not worth the effort.

He's taken us to his home outside of town, if the massive fortress can be considered that. It's large enough for many more than us, self-sustaining should we be forced to remain beyond the high fence. There's something strange about the way he was so prepared for the zombie apocalypse, but it's not my place to question it. I've learned that Kellan doesn't enjoy questions, and he doesn't want anybody getting too close.

I'm leaving a handwritten map here in the hopes that there is still someone alive in this town to find it. God, I hope you are. It feels like we're the only ones left, and it's horrifying...

Tabitha Alexander" 

GOODREADS

About the Author

Rose Wynters is the paranormal romance author of six books and three series, including the bestselling series, Wolf Town Guardians.

When not writing about hot, alpha characters and unique heroines, she enjoys pulling her head out of the fantasy world by traveling, camping, and experiencing new adventures.

A lifelong fan of both the paranormal and romance, she loves developing plots that combine these into sizzling hot reads with an exciting, sexy hero. 

Author Links:

WEBSITE  *  TWITTER  *  FACEBOOK 

Excerpt

     "The reporter looked to be somewhere around his early 30's. His handsome face was pale and drawn, his expression frantic. It was soon apparent he wasn't working from any type of script, as he addressed the viewers that were watching. “The police department is urging residents to stay inside and lock your doors, and stay away from what people are classifying as zombies.”

     Somebody cried out loudly in the background, but the reporter continued, “Police have no idea what what the death toll is. Numerous attacks have been reported. Do not get close to anyone that appears to be injured in anyway.”

     A woman moved in front of the camera, pushing the reporter out of the way with her body, before grabbing the microphone from his slack grip. Her face was pale, but her dark eyes were filled with determination as she stared into the lens. She got right to the point.

     “Don't let this reporter sugarcoat this with his evasions. There are dead people walking out there, and they are fast, deadly, and supernaturally strong. There is a name for them, one we've heard before but thought was only fiction. These dead people are zombies, and they don't care about nothing but getting their teeth into your flesh.”

     The reporter tried to grab the microphone back, but she shot him a deadly look. “You're not getting this till I'm done,” she told him in a firm voice. “I'm not gonna stand by while you get your five seconds of fame and leave these innocent people out there to die. People deserve to know what they are up against, and how to protect themselves. Now back off.” Surprisingly, he stood still and listened.

     She turned back to the camera. “I know there are some of you out there that don't believe in this. You wanna box it all up, neat and tidy-like, and believe that there must be some rational explanation for this, and come morning it will all be gone. If you believe that though, you're going to find yourself dead before the sun ever hits the sky tomorrow.”

     She leaned into the camera, and I felt as if she were talking directly to me. “For those of you that want to live though, listen and listen well. These zombies aren't the slow, dumb creatures we have all seen on film. These zombies are fast, faster than we are. The more they eat, the stronger they seem to get. The ones I have seen tonight have red eyes as well. The only way to kill them is by shooting them in the head or cutting their head off.”

     “I object to that,” the reporter broke in, his voice loud enough for us to hear him. He shook his head at the woman, his expression angry. “I simply can't tolerate you suggesting to viewers to go out and murder these people. We don't know what's wrong with them, maybe they are just ill.”

     She looked back at him in disbelief. “So how many people have you ate the last time you felt ill, Mr. big time, know-it-all reporter? I'll tell you what. Since you're so concerned with saving the zombies that wouldn't think twice about killing you, why don't you go out there and show us what you've got? I'm sure your cameraman here would be only to happy to film you through the window when you become dinner.”

     The reporter smirked at her before eying her with disdain. “What makes you such an expert?”

     She ignored him, turning her attention back to the viewers. “If you're still alive and hearing this, I beg you to listen. I've never seen anything like this before. Tonight I lost my whole family to these animals. If you want to stay alive, be cautious.

     Don't go out unarmed, and don't go out alone. If it's safe, try to make it to the police station. These zombies are everywhere now, and I guarantee the dead are outnumbering the living. Try to not join their ranks.”

     She turned back to the reporter, holding out the microphone. “I'm not an expert, I'm a survivor. I hope you can learn how to be one yourself.”

     With that, she turned and walked away."

Ooooooooo, doesn't that just give you chill bumps??

AMAZON *  BARNES AND NOBLE  *  SMASHWORDS  

To see the tour home page, click here!

Rose Wynters is giving away a $20 Amazon Gift Card. Giveaway starts on 10/17/13 at 12 AM Eastern Time and ends on 11/1/13 at 12 AM Eastern Time. Must be 18 and over, open internationally! Enter daily through Rafflecopter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

COVER REVEAL: "Unmaking Marchant" - by Ella James (Mark My Words Book Publicity)

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     "Marchant Radcliffe, owner of the exclusive Love Inc. brothel outside Vegas, is no stranger to darkness. He lost his sister in childhood and his parents in college. Since his best friend helped him finance the Love Inc. ranch almost ten years ago, Marchant has drowned himself in business—and he’s thrived, despite the heavy secret that has plagued him since his parents’ deaths. Then, after ten years of good fortune, Marchant’s skeletons start to peek out of the closet, tossing him down a trail of ruin that begins with arson and could end with murder. Because he’s kept his struggles private, he has no one to pull him back from the brink. Except for Suri Dalton. After a breakup with her longtime fiancé, Suri, the daughter of one of Silicon Valley’s tech tycoons, has nowhere to go except her BFF’s new penthouse in Las Vegas. The last thing Suri is looking for is a man, but after drowning her woes in wine on the flight over, she stumbles into a torrid make out session with a beautiful stranger—who just so happens to be Marchant Radcliffe, a playboy and a literal pimp. Despite an immediate attraction, Suri writes Marchant off as exactly the sort of guy she should avoid. Until Love Inc. goes up in flames, Marchant winds up at the bottom of a swimming pool, and Suri is the only one around to pull him out. What happens when what you see isn’t what you get? What do you do when destiny is too alluring to resist and too dangerous to survive?"

A LOVE INC. NOVEL

                                         COMING WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013  

ABOUT THE BLOG

     Ella James is a Colorado author who writes teen and adult romance. She is happily married to a man who knows how to wield a red pen, and together they are raising a feisty two-year-old who will probably grow up believing everyone's parents go to war over the placement of a comma. Ella's books have been listed on numerous Amazon bestseller lists, including the Movers & Shakers list and the Amazon Top 100; two were listed among Amazon's Top 100 Young Adult Ebooks of 2012. To find out more about Ella's projects and get dates on upcoming releases, find her on Facebook at facebook.com/ellajamesauthorpage and follow her blog, www.ellajamesbooks.com. Questions or comments? Tweet her at author_ellaj or e-mail her at ella_f_james at ymail.com.  

WEBSITE  *  Twitter

COVER REVEAL: "After the Rain" - by Karen-Anne Steward (Xpresso Book Tours)

Doesn't this cover just make you want to know what in the heck is going on??

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"Finally able to put her harrowing past to rest, Raina looks forward to her future with Kas, but the Ghost has other plans. As the FBI team gets closer to taking down the largest human trafficking ring in the modern world, the Ghost begins a wicked game, making Raina the pawn and the target. Never before encountering a worthy adversary, he’s fascinated by Raina and is enjoying the refreshing challenge of her intellect.

The danger ignites to a blazing new level, and Kas struggles between the need to finally exorcise the Ghost and his need to protect his wife. Tension mounts as an internal battle wages, tormenting Kas as he watches Raina put her all into taking down the man responsible for horrific sex slavery and gruesome deaths. When a new player takes control, Jefferson orders the end of the Ghost’s game with Raina, which results in one final, devastating act, leaving Kas desperate and willing to do whatever it takes to save her…by whatever means necessary."

After the Rain: The Final Novel in The Rain Trilogy
Karen-Anne Stewart
Publication date: Late October, 2013
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Goodreads 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

"I am a new author and have recently discovered that I am now addicted to writing. My first novel, Saving Rain, was originally going to be a single novel, but it quickly turned into a trilogy. I fell in love with the characters and had to continue with the story to delve more into their intriguing, dangerous lives. The Rain Trilogy is a powerful story of abuse, human trafficking, and beautiful, redeeming love (new adult contemporary romance suspense meant for readers 18 and older). Saving Rain and Healing Rain are live now, and After the Rain will be live by the end of October 2013.

I live in the mountains with my family, and I love to read, hike, and travel when I am not writing. I am a sucker for romance, especially a book with a strong alpha male who has a sensitive side. I also enjoy a good mystery and thrillers. My favorite author is James Patterson, he is an amazing writer.
With being a newbie, I am just learning all the ropes, but I'm loving the wild ride. I plan on writing for as long as my fingers have dexterity."

WEBSITE * FACEBOOK  *  TWITTER  * GOODREADS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbBurAKibhc

TEASER: "Stealing Promises" - by Brina Courtney (Mark My Words Book Publicity)

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"Promises are made to be kept, never stolen. But that’s exactly what happened to Victoria Blane and Levi Manor. Tragedy strikes their perfect relationship leaving Victoria struggling to overcome the darkness that threatens to bury her. With Victoria’s life in tatters she decides that running away is easier than dealing with her troubles. But when a friend finds her on the floor in her kitchen, she knows it’s time for a change.

  Brighton Hanley knows what it’s like to lose someone. He knows what it’s like to be haunted by things that can never change. When he meets Victoria he recognizes the pain she’s trying to bury deep in her eyes. He knows she’s trying to run away, but he also knows that you can’t run forever.

  Victoria is drawn to Brighton in ways she never expected. He becomes her champion, her life line… her sunshine in the darkness. But is Victoria ready to let go of the past and grab on to her future?  Or will she run away from Brighton before she can be hurt again?"

Title: Stealing Promises

Author: Brina Courtney

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance

Release Date: November 20th, 2013

Goodreads

Sign up to her newsletter to stay up to date with the release!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brina Courtney is a new adult author obsessed with chocolate, crime shows, and fantasy movies. She’s spent the last few years as an elementary teacher and a high school cheering coach. She lives in a small town in Pennsylvania with her husband and two very loud, small dogs.

Website  *  Facebook  *  Twitter

TEASER

  The next morning Victoria was surprised to find it drizzling outside. She snuggled further under the quilt but when she reached over for Levi, he wasn’t there. She groggily opened her eyes and started to sit up looking for him, but he wasn’t inside the small cabin.

Wrapping the quilt around her body she shuffled over to the window to look out and see Levi rearranging some things in the truck. She opened it slightly and called out to him, “Morning, did you have breakfast yet?”

He waved back at her, there was mud down his jeans but he looked relaxed and almost cheerful. “No not yet. I’m trying to get down to the main house to get us some, it was included with our stay. God damn truck is stuck in the mud.”

Victoria sighed deeply, so much for getting to see the small town that was close by. “Well I packed some snacks.”

He smiled back at her and shrugged his shoulders and walked into the cabin taking off his muddy boots upon arrival.  He walked over to Victoria and delivered a light kiss on the cheek, “How did I get so lucky?”

She smiled back at him devilishly, “Can’t tell ya. So what’s the grand plan for today vacation planner?”

He laughed at her teasing, “You’ll just have to wait and see won’t you?”

She set her lips into a thin line, Victoria didn’t like surprises very much.

“Don’t worry about it. Just eat your granola bar.”

After they ate and Victoria had gotten dressed Levi led her to the back of the cabin to a small trail. “I think you’re really going to enjoy this.”

They walked through the cool spring air while trees shed sprinkles on them. They walked in silence, hand-in-hand over small rocks and twigs, through the mud until Victoria finally heard rushing water. “Is that a waterfall?”

Levi smiled at her. “Nope. I did you one better.”

As they continued to walk they came upon a clearing with a small hot spring receded into the ground. There were rocks set up around it clearly put there by nature while others had been moved by people to keep clothes dry and supplies away from the steam. Victoria smiled and pushed Levi playfully. “You know I didn’t bring a bathing suit!”

Levi kissed her on the lips pushing his body against hers, “Of course I know that.” He quickly began to strip, taking his hoodie and shirt off in a flash. Victoria watched with interested eyes as he turned to her, his tanned muscles rippling beneath the light rain. He walked over to her and wrapped his hands around her body to bring her closer. “You’re going to join me, right?” He whispered hotly in her ear.

REVIEW: "Sir Stan the Bogeyman" - by Stacey Morrell (Virtual Book Tour Cafe

 BLURB
"Do dark places bother you?

The space under your bed…

The closet, door slightly ajar…

Do you believe in the Boogey Man?

Who is he?

Where did he come from?

What does he want?

Maybe he has a story to tell,

And we should listen."

Sir Stan the Bogeyman

by Stacie Morrell

Illustrated by Elizabeth Berg

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Publisher: Self-Published at CreateSpace

Release Date: September 1, 2013

Amazon - Coming Soon!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Accomplishments: Started a used bookstore for the Friends of the Wilsonville Library, subject of Oregonian article, published in: Antiques and Collectibles Magazine, Bookman’s AB Magazine, Antique Trader, Writer’s Digest (writing clinic), Book Magazine. Started the E-Commerce collectibles department for Goodwill of the Columbia Willamette. Currently pursuing an Associates of Applied Science in Business and Management at Portland Community College, holding a 3.98 GPA, member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, on Dean’s and President’s List.

Interests: Reading (pretty much anything even the cereal box if nothing else is available), writing (all genres), family (wife and mother), growing in and spreading my faith, learning (information geek), travel (but I rarely ever get to), volunteering, bargain hunting at garage sales, thrift stores, flea markets, etc.

In one sentence, who am I? Stacie Morrell is an eccentrically entertaining neurotic bibliophile who sells collectibles, tries to have patience with her precocious daughter, fearlessly tries to do everything, and writes because she is driven to as part of her genetic composition.

If I could go back and do one thing over: I would have figured out what I wanted from life way before now and gone back to school to get it (much, much sooner than I did).

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

REVIEW
Parents throughout the world have used stories of terrifying things to get them to behave after dark.  "Behave, or I'll tell the Bogeyman!" "Get away from the water...kustaka is waiting!"  We've all frozen when some unexplained noise assaulted our eardrums after dark.  What if Mom wasn't just pulling my leg?  What if something is coming to pull my leg off!!  But what if those "scary things" have a story?

Note on format

Hello, dear readers!

First, thank you so much for reading this blog.  You have no idea how much I appreciate that you take the time to mentally download some of my ramblings and excitedness over books (yes, I know my grammar and such is horrible in that sentence...bah gram-bug).

Second, as this blog has grown, you may have noticed that some things have changed.  It is not strictly a review blog, for one thing.  For another thing, I'm toying around with formatting of posts in order to make this a bit more of a reader-friendly blog.  What this means is that, for example, my reviews are now going to have an "In a nutshell..." section after the book/author info.  This new section is essentially the abstract.  It comes first because I recognize that many of you, just as I, have super busy lives and may not want to sit through the entirety of my mind ramblings before getting to "is this a good book or not?"  Therefore, you shall get the abstract, and then you can read the rest of it if you so choose.  I hope you do read the rest of it!  I rather like my writing.  :P

If you have comments / questions / concerns about this blog...or the great mysteries of life...please feel free to contact me and give me feedback.  I want this blog to be accessible and readable for you.  I can already read myself.  :)

Hugs and much love and blessings,
Nora

REVIEW: "Descent" by C.L. Romans (Virtual Book Tours Cafe)

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"When Captain Fomor leads his unit of six angelic warriors to Earth in an attempt to escape the war in Heaven, not only do they unwittingly set into motion the age of legends, but they must face an inescapable evil that threatens to destroy them, the humans they fall in love with, and the Earth itself.

Creating a new life on antediluvian Earth is no where near as simple as Fomor’s team had hoped it would be. A tragedy occurs early in their sojourn that convinces the seven that they must avoid both humans and fallen angels. But when they unexpectedly meet with the Nephilim, a tribe of unusual humans with unknown origins, the results are unprecedented. However, falling in love with humans is the least of The Unit’s problems.

Mankind is busily descending into a maelstrom of violence and profane religion. The Fallen, angels transformed into demons by their rebellion, have regrouped and are using the tattered remnants of their power to prey upon humankind in horrific ways. Not only is a demon demanding human sacrifice in a nearby village, but the world is careening towards a global disaster that not even The Unit can stop."

Genre: Epic Fantasy
Publisher: Brass Rag Press
Release Date: July 1, 2013
AMAZON LINK

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cheri Roman is a writer, editor, teacher, wife, mother, grandmother and friend, in whatever order works best in the moment. Most days you can find her on her blog, The Brass Rag, or working on the next novel in her fantasy series, Rephaim. Cheri lives with her husband and two Chihuahuas in St. Johns, Florida.

Website * Facebook * Twitter

REVIEW

     When I was a child, the television show "Hercules" was just the coolest thing ever (not to mention that Kevin Sorbo is pretty hot as Hercules).  A dude with super huge muscles who rescued the underdogs from trouble and waged a battle against evil...and had a pretty hilarious sidekick?  I asked my dad once where Hercules came from.  After all, if every myth is borne from a kernel of truth, where was the truth in the Hercules myth?  My dad sighed and told me a story of angels coming to Earth, falling in love with human women, and creating the "ancient men of yore..."  But who were those angels?

COVER REVEAL: "I am Just Junco" by J.A. Huss (Xpresso Book Tours)

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Picture yourself standing at the edge of a dock.

Now picture being lost in your own head, utterly unsure of yourself, surrounded by people who want to use you, take you away, or simply kill you.

This is Junco Coot, aged 19, year 2152, daughter of the Rural Republic’s ranking commander. Assassin, semi-famous athlete, and on the run.

In front of you is your future...

A future filled with secrets so heinous and truths so outrageous, it will push you past the edge of sanity.

…and behind you is a life of lies.

Lies that will rip apart the threads of reality barely holding you together.

Congratulations, soldier. Your life is over, but your mission has only just begun.

Welcome to my twisted, messed-up life. No one’s getting out alive, so we might as well kick some ass on the way down.

I Am Just Junco is a dark, epic SF/fantasy that spans five full-length novels and one novella. It is NOT young adult.

I Am Just Junco by JA Huss
NA Epic SF/Dystopian
Series: I AM JUST JUNCO
Books: Clutch, Fledge, Flight, Range, Magpie Bridge, Return

GOODREADS  *  Clutch at AMAZON  *  Clutch at BARNES AND NOBLE

AUTHOR J.A. Huss

J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label).

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers.

Author Links:

Website  *  Goodreads  *  Facebook  *  Twitter

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BLITZ: "Eyrie" by Emma Michaels (Tribute Books)

Finally, the sequel is released!!  Owlet is the first book in this series, and I reviewed it HERE.  Now the sequel has been released.  Yay!  I'll be reviewing this book in January...so stay tuned!

Eyrie: Society of Feathers #2
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Somewhere between falling and flying...you will find the truth.

The truth is being unveiled and Iris’ past is unlike anything she ever could have guessed. For Stryx, finding your missing half doesn’t always mean finding your mate. Iris has been missing a part of herself for so long that no one is sure she will be able to put the pieces back together and her ever reliable dreams may be forcing her astray. Coping with the death of someone she loved, she is forced to face the truth and break free from the lies that have caged her.

Kindle * Nook * iBookstore
Smashwords * Google * PDF

Author Emma Michaels

Emma Michaels is a multi-talented bookish girl. Not only is she the designer of beautiful covers, but she has many other accomplishments under her belt. She started book blogging in 2009 and was first published in 2010 (The Thirteenth Chime). She started The Writers Voice in 2011 as a way to help readers get to know authors on another level.

She moved to Washington at seventeen to be with the man that she loves, who asked her what she secretly wanted to be when she grew up. Naturally, she told him that she wanted to be an author, but at the time she thought "it was a pipe dream." He encouraged her to pursue her dreams and taught her that "sometimes reaching for the impossible can make a world of difference in your life." Now she is published and reaching well beyond what most people can imagine.

Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads

Excerpt

Iris lost herself in Falcon's arms, feeling the world drift away again as her lips melted against his stronger, larger ones. The warmth spreading through her body felt like electricity filling very part of her, pooling at the tips of her fingers where she touched his shoulders then traced along his arms. The tension that had worked its way up her back and through her own shoulders released as his hand brushed lightly down the length of her spine, sending sparks through every nerve.

"Please," she whispered softly, centimeters from his lips as they breathed in each other's warm breath. She felt herself lean towards him, this time not holding back as she moved his arm to her waist, making him wrap both arms around her fully. His secure hold on her was the only thing keeping her upright.

"Anything," he whispered into her ear a few moments later after she had caught her breath.

"Be the one beside me when I enter the masquerade. Be the one by my side when I change it all. I know I can do it on my own or with Nestor but...I don't want to. I want you both there with me,” Iris said.

The look on Falcon's face, the light in his eyes, showed her the joy he found in her invitation. "I was waiting for you to ask. Waiting for you to want to need me, even if you never will. It would be my pleasure, Izzy. I will always be there for you. Nothing could pull me away." He didn't say the words but they still hung silently between them, the knowledge that anyone who tried to pull him away from her would die trying. She knew she should be afraid, but somehow he was the only person she knew she could trust, the only one her heart was perfectly sure about, like a tether tied them together, connecting their lives.

"I do need you. Even if I don't, I still need you." She whispered and kissed him harder, forgetting the world outside their doors, ready to explore the man that the boy she had known had become. The man who felt like such a part of her now that she had accepted him. She didn't know what she’d do if she ever lost him. She had never felt a connection this powerful, this all consuming.

"I love you." He whispered, his eyes gazing into hers, their intensity only pulling her further into the joy of just being close to him, just letting herself forget the world she wanted so desperately to help, to change. "I want to do something for you."

"What is it?" Iris almost pulled back, not wanting to lose the moment between them but instead she leaned the side of her face against his chest so that she could hear his heart beating.

"I want to show you what it’s like to run without hesitation, without taking away the one part of running that makes it so magical̶  the freedom. I want to show you that freedom." He bent and traced his fingers along the back of her legs. They buckled but he lifted her, taking it as an invitation.

She smiled and leaned against his chest. This time he wasn't carrying her because something was wrong. It was like when they were kids and he wanted to show her he was strong enough to support her, that he could be that person who would pick her up even if she hadn't fallen. He walked to the door and she turned the doorknob for him. They found Autumn in the hallway.

"Wanna go for a run?" Falcon asked Autumn, his voice a conspiratory whisper.

"Sure!" She said and smiled lightly when she realized what Falcon was planning. "Every girl should get to feel the aves inside of her come alive."

Iris smiled feeling like she had her team. They were the people she needed and wanted by her side. They were the ones who kept her human and kind, protecting her at all costs. Nestor was upstairs with Nathaniel preparing for his duties in their upcoming plans. The rest of her family was downstairs. As they jogged by, they passed Jarem on the way, heading up to meet Diana. "We’re going running, wanna come?" Falcon offered and Iris laughed.

"If you invite everyone we may as well all go." Iris giggled and smiled widely, looking forward to it, not caring who decided to come. Iris knew that no matter how people surrounded her and Falcon, somehow they were always alone. They were the only two people in on the secret. That was their unusual type of love. It would only grow with time and trust as long as it was never betrayed.

"Sure, why not." Jarem said and smiled. He opened the door to Diana's room and hollered, "We’re going running with Falcon, wanna come?"

"Absolutely!" They heard Diana yell back. She joined them even though she was wearing a short dress. Not bothering to change, she threw a pair of high-tops on with it.

As they jogged through the house David joined them, leaving the fort to Neal, Garah and Griffin so as not to disturb Nathaniel and Nestor. When they went out the door, Diana led them to the back of the house, going through the garden to a strange trail beyond it. "Is this the fairy trail?" Jarem asked. When Diana nodded, he smiled and looked at Iris. "It's perfect."

"Wooooo!" Diana shouted, crying out like a hawk soaring through the sky. Jarem and even Autumn joined in and Iris realized it was for her and Falcon, egging them on. Falcon set her on her feet and knelt down the way he once had to offer her a ride on his back. She blushed feeling like that same little girl for one beautiful moment, attaching herself to his back and holding onto him tightly.

The bird calls got louder and louder until Falcon got ready and whispered, "You ready?"

"Yes." She whispered next to his ear and then looked straight ahead realizing, she really did need him. Falcon knew what she needed even before she did. As he started running, she shifted her weight and realized, she fit so well against his back, like they had been molded for just this moment, for him to give her the freedom that her body robbed her of. Suddenly her grudges against her body for being made the way it was disappeared as the wind whipped her hair away from her face. She arched her back ever so slightly to get the full effect and to keep her weight manageable for Falcon as he ran faster and faster. Her heart felt like it was soaring for the very first time. There was nothing like it, the faster he went the more amazing it felt. All she could feel was the earth around her and the link to her aves.

She couldn't help but giggle with glee as she watched Diana pass them, holding her arms out at her sides like wings. The wind was pushing her arms behind her, and her face was lifted toward the sunlight shining through the trees. Jarem sped to catch up with her and they started to race each other, getting competitive each time one of them would pass the other.

Autumn was at Falcon’s side as she called out, "Oh come on, go for it. She'll love it!"

"Faster!" Iris squealed like a little kid, the sheer joy of movement giving her a rush she had never felt before. As she leaned her face against Falcon's, she could feel that he was smiling as he gained speed. He wrapped his arms behind her, entwining his fingers at her back like he was stretching as his position formed a brace for her. She leaned into it and as he went faster and faster. She slowly let go of his shoulders and held her arms out at her sides like Diana. The sun beat down on her face and arms. As she closed her eyes, she felt like she was flying, really and truly flying.

Book 1 is now 99 cents on Kindle!




Add Book 3 to your Goodreads list!
coming October 13, 2014






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