Blog Tour/Review: Rewind to You by Laura Johnston

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Rewind to You

One last summer before college on beautiful Tybee Island is supposed to help Sienna forget. But how can she? This is where her family spent every summer before everything changed, before the world as she knew it was ripped away.
But the past isn’t easily left behind. Especially when Sienna keeps having episodes that take her back to the night she wants to forget. Even when she meets the mysterious Austin Dobbs, the guy with the intense blue eyes, athlete’s body, and weakness for pralines who scooped her out of trouble when she blacked out on River Street.

When she’s with Austin, Sienna feels a whole new world opening up to her. Austin has secrets, and she has history. But caught between the past and the future, Sienna can still choose what happens now…

 Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Kobo

I loved this book! I've been looking forward to reading it for quite a while and was concerned that I would be disappointed, but I wasn't at all. It caught my attention from the beginning and didn't let up the entire time.

Sienna's life has changed dramatically over the past year. Her father died and her family is not doing as well financially as they were when he was alive. Her family now consists of Sienna, her mother and brother, Spencer, who has ADHD and bipolar disorder. They go to Tybee Island before she starts college in the fall. She meets Austin Dobbs, and feels differently than she ever has before. Austin falls for her quickly, too, but there are plenty of complications. Austin has had a rough life and the more she gets to know him, the more impressed she is with him. Will their love be enough to overcome the obstacles in their way?

I liked Sienna. She tried to follow her heart but was torn in different directions for multiple reasons. She tried to make everyone else happy and was able to realize what would make her happy in the end. Austin is a character to swoon over. I loved him more and more as time went on. Towards the end there are some scenes with him that were quite emotional and I cried. There were lots of other characters to love and others that rubbed me the wrong way. I liked that this was a stand alone but wouldn't mind reading more about Austin and Sienna in the future. ;)

This is a great debut by this author. At the end, there's an excerpt for her new novel coming out in February 2015 and I am definitely looking forward to reading it!

My Rating=5 Stars

*I received a copy from the tour host for review. My opinion is 100% my own.*

Excerpt:

“Well, if you happen to be on River Street again,” Austin says, breaking the silence. “If you’re out walking around late at night and some drunk pervs jump out at you and you need someone to break your fall…”

I smile.

He smiles, too. “Stop by the River Street Sweets.”

Laughter bursts through my lips. “You’ll be there, huh?”

He gives me a smile that sends my stomach flying again. “Most likely.” Reaching through the open window, he presses the button to lock my doors and steps away. “Until next time?”

I smile at his hypothetical question. With those three words Austin has glued himself in my brain, kindling hopes for a next time that will never be…

Author Laura Johnston

Laura Johnston lives in Utah with her husband and two children. Growing up with five siblings, a few horses, peach trees, beehives and gardens, she developed an active imagination and always loved a good story. She fell in love with the young adult genre both through her experience in high school as well as her job later as a high school teacher. Laura enjoys running, playing tennis, sewing, traveling, writing, and above all, spending time with her husband and kids. REWIND TO YOU is her debut novel.

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Praise for the Book 

“Johnston’s debut spotlights romance and familial relationships, including themes like grief and self-sacrifice. It’s an ideal story for readers looking for a deep-rooted YA love story with the emotional ups and downs and poignancy of a Nicholas Sparks contemporary. There’s also a touch of wit and a sigh-worthy hero – a definite on your TBR list.” – RT Book Reviews

“This is contemporary YA fiction at its best! –Kay Lynn Mangum, author of The Secret Journal of Brett Colton

“Rewind to You will steal your hear away.” –Kelly Nelson, author of The Keeper’s Saga


Blog Tour Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/13/14

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an iTunes Gift Code or River Street Sweets Gift Card. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Grand Finale Blitz: The Better Man by Amy Vastine

To post this Grand Finale (we'll send you the HTML code) and add your Social Media to the Rafflecopter, 

email us at PrismBookTours(at)gmail.com with "The Better Man GF" in the subject line.

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We're blitzing the GRAND FINALE for

The Better Man by Amy Vastine!

The Better Man, which is the beginning of the new Chicago Sisters Series, is set in the busy city of Chicago, but is full of family, friendship, and love. It's also from the clean romance Heartwarming line of books from Harlequin.

Did you miss any of the tour? You still have time to go back and check out all the stops and enter the amazing giveaway!

Launch - Intro and Excerpt

The Better Man is the first book in the Chicago Sisters Series, which introduces us to the three Everhart sisters, Lucy, Kendall, and Emma. All three sisters live in the Lincoln Park area, and even though the story has a big city backdrop, the focus is still on family and community. These sisters always have one another’s backs, even though they couldn’t be any different...

Colorimetry - Guest Post

In The Better Man, the heroine of the story is an interior designer. This profession was born out of my love of all things HGTV, of course. I think I can lose whole days to that channel. I love all the shows about surprise makeovers and house flippings, but my favorite is Property Brothers...

The Written Adventure - Guest Post

Kendall Montgomery is the middle sister and the heroine of The Better Man. Her sisters are always there for her, even if they drive her a little crazy sometimes.... Despite their different views on life, Lucy and Emma never fail to support their sister through the toughest times of her life...

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Review

Kendall is facing reality now. She's a very talented and gifted designer and artist and is now able to use those abilities to make a living. Based off of her life experiences and relationships, she's a little gun-shy, with good reason. I loved watching her evolve. Being a mother isn't easy and doing what's best for your kids isn't always easy, either, but, as Kendall learns, the hard things are often the most rewarding.

Book Freebies, Contests, Sweepstakes, and Giveaways - Guest Post

Today I thought I would introduce you to Max, the hero. In my mind, Max always looked like and had similar personality traits as the character Ryan Gosling played in the movie Crazy, Stupid, Love. Easy on the eyes, charisma and charm, and let’s not forget great fashion sense. Max is always well put together and did I mention he often has a five o’clock shadow? I love a guy with a little scruff!..

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

This story is so sweet! I love the characters, and can't wait to read more books about Kendall's sisters. Amy has definitely become one of my new favorite authors!

The Wonderings of One Person - Guest Post

The hero in The Better Man is new to Chicago. Max has recently moved there from Los Angeles. To help a guy out, I thought I would suggest a few romantic spots in the Windy City that he or anyone here for a visit might want to consider...

SBM Book Obsession - Excerpt

“Trevor’s been gone just over a year,” she said wearily. The anniversary of his death had led to Simon’s regression. It seemed every time Kendall thought they were making some good progress, something would set him back. She was not going to give her son another reason to worry. “Simon does not need to see me running around with men on dates. He needs me home. He needs to know I’m not ever going to leave him.”
His father had left. His father had left them both.

“Avoiding a date here and there isn’t going to make him better.”

My Love for Reading Keeps Growing - Excerpt

“Nana!” Simon burst into the foyer, his drawing clenched in his hand. “You won’t believe it! You’ll never believe who we saw today!”

Kendall gave her mother an apologetic grimace, but Nana was too startled by Simon’s verbosity to notice. “Who? Who did you see?” she asked, crouching down to his level. He handed her the picture he’d drawn.

“My dad! We saw my dad right down the street!”

Kelly P's Blog - Guest Post

In the story, a young widow and mother is hired to remodel a restaurant managed by a man who happens to look exactly like her dead husband. It’s a messy romance but one that I hope wins your hearts...

J.R.Richardson Fics - Review

And the twist. Which I refuse to ruin for you. But let me just say, Amy. Well flipping done, my friend. Because you know I love stuff like this. And the way you wove this tale, and took me along for the ride, quite willingly, I might add . . . and revealed everything just the way it was supposed to be revealed, at the exact time it needed to be revealed . . . made me smile so big. I just love the way my heart was happy for (almost) everyone, in the end.

Pretty Girls Read Books - Excerpt

He mirrored her movement to keep her from escaping and put a hand on her arm when she tried once more to move around him. It was the first time he’d touched her since their disastrous introduction. Kendall couldn’t stop the déjà vu that it prompted. The last time she saw Trevor alive, she’d been storming away and he’d tried to stop her. The memory jolted through her like an electrical shock.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Max said firmly. “I will be here. Every day. Whether you want me here or not.”

Getting Your Read On - Review

The relationship between Max and Kendall grows slowly and as it does, we learn more back history about them both.  The unfolding process was well written.  Max and Kendall struggle separately and they struggle together.  Of course, my favorite bits are when they support each other.

Deal Sharing Aunt - Excerpt

The three of them got busy painting and embellishing the costume. Their collective laughter created a lightness Kendall hadn’t felt in a long time. Seeing Simon act like a normal six-year-old freed her from the year’s worth of guilt and worry she’d been carrying around. This wasn’t like having Trevor around. It was better.

My Devotional Thoughts - Review

There are a couple of things about the book that truly stand out as dynamic stylistic characteristics. For one thing, the author switched back and forth between the man’s and women’s perspective. Not all authors have the knack for doing that, but this author does. I also appreciate the fact that the author introduces a child who is grieving the death of his father in a unique way. I found that to be a realistic element that will connect with others who have been in that position.

Southern Chelle - Review

I love books like this that grip you and you don’t want to put them down! (This was a book that did that.) The Better Man seemed to have a different storyline than any other book that I have ever read. It was extremely refreshing to read totally new content.

Undercover Book Reviews - Review

First time ever reading from this author and was completely impressed. Her work is well written and easy to follow. This particular storyline is heart grabbing.

Bookworm Lisa - Review

I am enjoying this story.  Two separate people, each with a child with a need to be parented.
 
The hard obstacle to overcome is that Max look like Kendall's deceased  husband, It lends a unique situation to the story... 

Reader Girls - Excerpt

“Winner!” Max jumped her last checker and threw his hands up in the air, victorious. “I’m pretty sure you cheated,” Kendall mumbled.

“Don’t be a sore loser.”

“I’m not, but I was killing you. Your massive comeback is fishy, admit it.”

Max’s mouth dropped open. “That is a lie. There was nothing fishy about my comeback. You opened up that side for my guy to get through!”                                  

“Are you going to give Max kisses because he won?” Simon asked, completely putting an end to their playful argument.

My Life, Loves and Passion - Review & Excerpt

“It’s better that you rip the Max Band-Aid off now rather than later,” Lucy said while they cooked. “Simon will get over it. So will you. It’s always better to be the one who walked away instead of the one left behind.”

“Which one were you again?” Kendall asked, recognizing that Lucy’s guard was down.

“Ha-ha. I’ve been both. At the same time,” she added. “Now, stop making this about me.”

I Am A Reader - Guest Post

At the heart of the story is Kendall and Simon, a mother and son who are both still grieving the loss of their husband/father. Kendall struggles with how to help ease her son’s anxiety after his father’s death. Feeling helpless is something to which all parents can relate. Kendall is sensitive to her son’s needs and has to find a way to balance what he wants with what he needs. It’s not always so easy to distinguish between the two...

Lola's Reviews - Review

I really enjoyed this story, it had some really sad and some really happy moments. The characters where what made this book shine, they all had a past, personality and motives, even the side characters. This book has a fun and quirky cast of characters and I enjoyed seeing them interact with each other.

Wishful Endings - Review

The Better Man was quite an original story and one I haven't read before in this genre. The leading man looks almost exactly like the heroine's dead husband and this causes all sort of issues because they have to work together. Sparks definitely fly, both good and bad, but the author kept a great balance between heavier issues (such as Kendall's son who has become mostly mute as a way to deal with his father's death), humor, and then those sweet romantic moments.

The Better Man

by Amy Vastine

Adult Romance 

Harlequin Heartwarming

January 1st 2014

Kendall Montgomery's six-year-old son has barely spoken in the past year, locked in his world of silent grief. Then one day, he spots his dead father across a crowded street.

Max Jordan moved to Chicago to be closer to his own son and prove he can be a better father than his deadbeat dad. His striking resemblance to Kendall's husband and his track record with fatherhood make her determined to keep her distance…until Max helps her little boy come out of his shell. But can she trust him with their future? How can she be sure he won't take off just when they need him most?

Amazon - Harlequin

Amy Vastine has been plotting stories in her head for as long as she can remember. An eternal optimist, she studied social work, hoping to teach others how to find their silver lining. Now, she enjoys creating happily ever afters for all to read.

Amy lives outside Chicago with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband, three fun-loving children, and their sweet but mischievous puppy dog.

Website - Goodreads - Facebook - Twitter

Tour-Wide Giveaway

- Gift Card Grand Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card and a signed paperback (US) or ebook (INT) of The Better Man

- US Grand Prize: Signed paperback of The Better Man plus swag (shown above)

- 5 copies of The Better Man (paperback for US and ebooks for INT)

- Ends October 5th

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Blog Tour/Review: The Unexpected Earl by Philippa Jane Keyworth

 

Publication Date: September 20, 2014 | Madison Street Publishing | Formats: eBook, Paperback

Genre: Historical Fiction/Regency/Romance

READ AN EXCERPT.

From the author of the widely acclaimed The Widow's Redeemer, comes a new Regency romance from Philippa Jane Keyworth.

Six years after being jilted without a word of explanation, Julia Rotherham finds Lucius Wolversley standing before her once again–unexpected, unannounced, unwelcome. With her heart still hurting and, more importantly, her pride, Julia must chaperone her younger sister, fend off fortune hunters, orchestrate a fake engagement, and halt an elopement–all whilst keeping the man who jilted her at arm’s length. But what Julia doesn’t know is that this time, the Earl has no intention of disappearing, and this time, he has more than an explanation to offer…

I'm not an expert on Regency, but I do enjoy reading it and I thought this book was fabulous! I love stories about second chances at love and what brings each person back to the other one. Lucius Wolversley left Julia Rotherham six years ago without an explanation and he has done everything possible to make sure he never runs into her or her family again. As fate would have it, his best friend Courtenay brings him to a ball, which is in honor of her younger sister, Annabelle. Seeing him again throws Julia off and her reaction is rather humorous.

This is a book that also gave me angst. I keep waiting for Wolversley to explain what had happened and where he had been to Julia, thinking it would be just around the corner, but there was always something to keep it from happening. There was plenty to occupy myself with in the meantime, especially Peter Highsmith, who's been trying to woo Julia for the past year, and Sylvester, her younger brother Freddy's new best friend.

I also love reading about proper society and the "scandalous" behavior that results in hasty weddings. I enjoyed the character development and loved reading their interactions with each other. This book is fun from beginning to end and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future!

Content: A few mild swear words. Clean!!

My Rating=5 Stars

*I received a copy from the tour host for review. My opinion is 100% my own.*

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Philippa Jane Keyworth, known to her friends as Pip, has been writing since she was twelve in every notebook she could find. Originally trained as a horse-riding instructor, Philippa went on to become a copywriter before beginning a degree in History. A born again Christian, Philippa lives in the south of England with her handsome husband.

Philippa has always written stories and believes that, since it is one of her loves and passions, she always will. In her early writing career, she dabbled in a variety of genres, but it was the encouragement of a friend to watch a film adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that began her love affair with the British Regency. Since then, she has watched every Regency film and TV series she could get her hands on and become well acquainted with Georgette Heyer’s novels which gave her the inspiration to write her own.

Both as a reader and a writer, Philippa believes it is important to escape into a world you yourself would want to live in. This is why she writes stories that will draw you into the characters’ joys and heartaches in a world apart from our own. Her debut novel, The Widow’s Redeemer (Madison Street Publishing, 2012), is a traditional Regency romance bringing to life the romance between a young widow with an indomitable spirit and a wealthy viscount with an unsavory reputation. The novel has been received well by readers and reviewers who have praised the heartfelt story and admirable characters. Her second novel, The Unexpected Earl (Madison Street Publishing, 2014), explores another romance in the Regency era when an impetuous young woman has her life turned upside down by the reappearance of the earl who jilted her six years ago.

So, what are you waiting for? Get swept away into another time with characters you will learn to love, and experience the British Regency like never before.

For more information please visit Philippa Jane Keyworth's website and blog. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

Also by Philippa Jane Keyworth

The Widow's Redeemer

The Unexpected Earl Blog Tour Schedule

Saturday, September 20
Spotlight & Giveaway at Passages to the Past

Monday, September 22
Review at Austenprose
Review at To Read or Not to Read
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Tuesday, September 23
Review at Bibliophilia, Please
Spotlight & Excerpt at Romantic Historical Reviews

Wednesday, September 24
Review & Interview at Bookish

Thursday, September 25
Review at "Good Friends, Good Books and a Sleepy Conscience: This is the Ideal Life."

Friday, September 26
Review & Interview at Back Porchervations
Spotlight at Princess of Eboli

Sunday, September 28
Review at Book Nerd

Monday, September 29
Review at Mel's Shelves
Review at Based on a True Story
Review at Queen of All She Reads

Tuesday, September 30
Review at A Library of My Own

Book Blast: Silvern by Christina Farley

Links

Synopsis 

Jae Hwa Lee has destroyed Haemosu, the dangerous demi-god that held her ancestors captive, and now she’s ready to forget about immortals and move on with her life. Then the god of darkness, Kud, sends an assassin to kill her. Jae escapes with the knowledge that Kud is seeking the lost White Tiger Orb, and joins the Guardians of Shinshi to seek out the orb before Kud can find it.

But Kud is stronger and more devious than Haemosu ever was. Jae is soon painfully reminded that by making an enemy of Kud, she has placed her closest friends in danger, and must decide how much she can bear to sacrifice to defeat one of the most powerful immortals in all of Korea.

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After teaching and traveling internationally for ten years, Christina started writing about her adventures, tossing in a little fiction for fun. This inspired her to write the GILDED series, a YA series based on Korean mythology about a Korean-American girl who takes her destiny into her own hands.

Besides writing, Christina loves traveling, running, driving too fast, and eating dark chocolate.

Christina writes fantasy for teens. She is represented by Jeff Ourvan of the Jennifer Lyons Literary, LLC.

Learn more about Christina by visiting her at www.christinafarley.com or by chatting with her on Twitter @christinafarley.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter

Winner will receive a $50.00 Amazon Gift Card.

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Book Review: Impetus by Scott M. Sullivan

Impetus, by Scott M. Sullivan
2014, 350p, Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic Thriller
My Rating=4 Stars
Source: Received a copy from the author for an honest review

 

When the world first heard about the meteorites, it was already too late.

Ten arduous years later, Mick and his small group of eight had adapted to the new way of things. With no clean running water, power, or forms of communication, the Earth went backward, taking with it almost everything they held dear. Survivors like Mick were forced to do the best they could with what they had. Because in the post-Impact world, alternatives were a luxury that no one could afford.

Now a deadly virus threatens those who were unfortunate enough to survive.

With the clock ticking down on their lives, Mick will navigate the deceitful webs spun by those that oppose his drive for salvation. And along his quest to prevent another catastrophe, Mick will rediscover what it truly means to be human.
***
Impetus does away with the genre's tendency to dwell solely on the catastrophe, to instead examine the very-real human experience and condition behind a world-changing disaster. 

This book was intense! A meteor (which has been named Colossus) has fallen and caused a great deal of destruction. We start out learning about three different groups of people that don't seem to have much in common. There's a group of scientists that live in The Facility, an underground bunker. They're looking for an immunity strand for a virus that has broken out and are reaching out to the survivors to see if a cure can be found. 

Then there's Mick, who's living in a fallout shelter with his two children and five other people. Not many people knew of its existence, so they had food, water and shelter. However, Mick is tired of eating the same canned food for so many years, so he goes out to scout for new food.

Last, we meet Solomon, Clyde and King. King is the leader of this group and is harsh and mean. Clyde is his son and they treat Solomon poorly. Solomon is considered by some to be slow so he appears to be an easy target for King and Clyde. We also learn that there's someone Solomon wants to protect which is the reason he stays with them. Solomon defies them the best he can, even though they are abusive to him at times because of it. Mick meets Solomon when he goes out one day and little does he know what a huge impact that will have on his life and the group he is so desperately trying to protect.

This is a character-driven novel. The apocalyptic event happened ten years ago so we learn about some people that didn't make it and the new life for those who are still around. There is suspicion and fear yet there is also courage and bravery.

I wasn't sure where the scientists would fit in and as we learned more about them, I was glad that Sid was brave enough to do what he felt needed to be done. Mick was the leader and protector for his group and was also willing to do whatever he needed for them to survive. King was scary and abusive and downright evil. I cringed whenever I read about him and his son Clyde was pretty bad, too.

There were great characters and I felt that they could be real people. I enjoyed reading about all of them, even King and Clyde. In an event like this, I can imagine that society could really become that way. This felt heavy to me at times and I would need to put it down to take a breather. I really wasn't sure the direction this would take in the end. I liked how the three storylines were pulled together and found the ending to be satisfying!

Content: Mild swearing, violence

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

About the author:
Scott Sullivan currently works as a VP of IT. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and two amazing children. His passion is writing; he finds it both therapeutic and invigorating.

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Brooke's Review: Bad Unicorn by Platte F. Clark

Brooke is my 10-year-old daughter who loves to read! She wants to review them, too, so her posts will be included from time to time. This is a book that a friend told her about and they were going to compete to see who could finish it first. He had to drop out, but Brooke was too involved in the story by then to quit. I haven't read this book so, obviously, I don't have a review to include this time.

Bad Unicorn, by Platte F. Clark
2013, 432p, Middle-grade Fantasy
Brooke's Rating=5 Stars
Source: Purchased a paperback copy



It wasn't Max Spencer's idea to fight robots, lead an army, or save the world—it just so happens that he's the only living person who can read the most fantastical book ever written: The Codex of Infinite Knowability. The Codex is no ordinary book, and among other things, it describes a unicorn named Princess the Destroyer.

Princess the Destroyer is no ordinary unicorn. She loves nothing more than hunting down, killing, and eating other creatures. After all, what's the point of having a sharp horn on your forehead if you don't use it for destructive purposes? And right now Princess has a very definite purpose: Find Max and retrieve the lost Codex for an evil sorcerer and his mysterious master. If she can do that, she's been promised an all-the-humans-you-can-eat buffet in Texas.

Stuck in another world and with a carnivorous unicorn on his trail, Max must find the courage to save himself, his friends, and, oh yeah...the entire human race

Max Spencer thinks he is a normal kid. His life is books, friends, video games and getting beat up by bullies. Dirk, Max's best friend, has about the same life. They meet a girl named Sarah and she becomes their friend. They meet Dwight and together they travel to the future.

Princess is a unicorn that has a taste for blood she will stop at nothing to eat all humans alive. She is fierce and was sent to the techrus (the human world) to retrieve the codex of infinite knowability. She eats all humans alive according to the future. Can Max and his friends save the human race or will they die along with the human race?

My favorite character is Sarah. She is amazing at judo and knows how to fight. She is smart and I admire her. I like that there's a lot of action so it held my attention the whole time. I'm looking forward to the next book!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Platte F. Clark shares his first name with the midwestern Platte River, which he's been told means "wide and shallow." Despite that he was able to find a woman to marry and produce seven offspring with.

Platte graduated Cum Laude with a BS in Philosophy and an MS in English, and currently lives with his family in Utah.

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Book Blast: Lobo Goes to the Galapagos by C.L. Murphy

About the Book

Title: Lobo Goes to the Galapagos (The Adventures of Lovable Lobo) | Author: C.L. Murphy | Publication Date: August 27, 2014 | Publisher: Peanut Butter Prose | Pages:32 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 7

Summary: Lobo returns in this adventure, sweeter and a bit salty this time. This lil' wolf pup finds that there's nothing like a little sea air to bring out the best in him and his unlikely tag-alongs. Take a trip to the Galapagos with Lobo and his right-hand raven, Roxy, as they help an injured, new feathered friend return home. Lobo faces some fears and witnesses the joy that comes from helping others in this "birds of a different feather DO flock together" tale.

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The Buzz

"Who knew geography and learning about animals could be this much fun? Lobo Goes to the Galapagos is my new favorite children's book and is highly recommended. " ~ Jack Magnus, Readers' Favorite

"While Ms. Murphy's uniquely whimsical and vibrant illustrative style is perfectly suited for the wild, tropical feel of this colorful book, and easily captures young readers' attention, there is also a subtle, quiet beauty to the storyline's overarching themes of friendship, trust, perseverance, and goodwill. Lobo's tenacious and giving spirit are delightfully captured in this fifth installment of puppy-fueled fun. In fact, it's sincerely so easy to fall in love with "Lovable" Lobo that I'd happily follow this well-meaning, big-hearted, wolf pup to the very ends of the earth!" ~ 5 Star Review, Indie Author Girl, Amazon

"What an adorable story! I read this to my nephew and he couldn't stop giggling at the silliness of Roxy as well as Lobo's cute friends Bobby, Sunny, Coconut and Sandra. The author was very clever in portraying a tale of friendship, adventure and excitement that is sure to enthuse young minds around the world." ~ 5 Star Review, Gina D., Amazon

About the Author: C.L. Murphy

While new to the children’s book writing and illustrating scene, C.L. Murphy (Cathy) has been doodling her way through life since she won a school wide poster contest in the third grade. She’s had the pleasure of working as an artist in residence, creating cartoons and painting murals with the children at local elementary schools. She adores the wonder and curiosity of young children.

She feels that creating picture books is something that she was destined to do, after years of filing away so many ideas, while raising her two sons. She is a member of SCBWI.

She lives amongst the wildlife in an enchanted forest in the beautiful Oregon wilderness with her husband and menagerie. She has always appreciated nature and animals have always played a major role in her life. The inspiration for the Lovable Lobo character came from a wolf that she raised for over 14 years.

Check out her book series and discover that you, too, will find Lobo lovable.

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* $100 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner's choice)

Contest Ends: October 23, 11:59 pm, 2014

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Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. The winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by C.L. Murphy and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions - feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Blog Tour/Review: Star of Deliverance by Mandy Madson Voisin

Tour Schedule

Star of Deliverance, by Mandy Madson Voisin
2014, 320p, Clean YA Romance
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: Provided a copy by the publisher for an honest review



Born a slave and outcast, the young healer Emi discovers an ancient disease spreading among her people. Desperate, she races to the Capital for a cure and unwittingly finds herself in a competition to win over the Crown Prince’s heart. Staying in the game provides time to search for a cure, but it may cost Emi her life—or her heart.

This was an interesting read! It resembles the story of Esther but is unique. Emi is a healer and there is a disease that is making its way around her village. She goes to the Capital to find a cure and becomes part of the competition to marry Prince Corban. She must stay there for a year and is closely guarded. It's difficult for her to find the answers she's searching for, much less get them to the people that need them back at her village. She manages to catch the Prince's eye but suspicions start mounting about who she really is and whether or not she belongs there. 

Emi is easy to like. She's kind and big-hearted and willing to go to extreme lengths to save those she cares about. She bluffs her way through the competition, realizing how different she is from the other girls. She makes friends with one of them, Jessra, but her secrets eventually come between them. Before she came to the Capital, she overhead some soldiers discussing plans to wipe out her people but hoped it wasn't true. She learns more of the details and starts to feel overwhelmed. She's one girl up against someone evil and cunning so how can she possibly win? 

I enjoyed the friendships she made in her quest for a cure. She learned that there were some good, caring people in the Capital who were willing to help her. I liked her relationship with Prince Corban. She was a breath of fresh air to him and found she liked him more than she thought she would. We don't get to know him as well as I would have liked, but we learn enough that I was satisfied.

This was a page turner for me and I had a hard time putting it down. The parallels to the story of Esther are quite evident and parts of it reminded me of The Selection series by Kiera Cass. It's a great read and is squeaky clean, which is another plus for me! I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future!

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About the author: 

Mandy Voisin is a wife, marketer, and author. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a BA in English. Her parents told her she’d never make a living with an English degree, so she’s dedicated the rest of her life to proving them wrong. She loves poetry and babies and her sisters. Mandy currently resides in Phoenix, Ariz., with her husband Kevin who is a sleep deprived medical student with a heart of gold and the world’s best smile. Together they chip away at their dreams.

Trailer Release: Press Play by Eric Devine

SYNOPSIS:

PRESS PLAY
Author: Eric Devine
Release Date: October 28, 2014
Publisher: Running Press Kids

Greg Dunsmore, a.k.a. Dun the Ton, is focused on one thing: making a documentary that will guarantee his admission into the film school of his choice. Every day, Greg films his intense weight-loss focused workouts as well as the nonstop bullying that comes from his classmates. But when he captures footage of violent, extreme hazing by his high school’s championship-winning lacrosse team in the presence of his principal, Greg’s field of view is in for a readjustment.

Greg knows there is a story to be told, but it is not clear exactly what. And his attempts to find out the truth only create more obstacles, not to mention physical harm upon himself. Yet if Greg wants to make his exposé his ticket out of town rather than a veritable death sentence, he will have to learn to play the game and find a team to help him.

Combine the underbelly of Friday Night Lights with the unflinching honesty of Walter Dean Myers, and you will find yourself with Eric Devine’s novel of debatable truths, consequences, and realities.

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About The Author

Eric Devine is the author of multiple works of Young Adult fiction, most recently Dare Me, with Press Play being published 10/28. He is also a veteran high school English teacher who spends as much time teaching as he does completing field research for his novels. His work has been listed by YALSA and Booklist for reluctant readers and for Best in Sports. He is married to his high school sweetheart, and his wife and he have two wonderful daughters and two not-so-wonderful Labradors. Find out more at ericdevine.org, facebook.com/ericdevineauthor, or Twitter: @eric_devine

Giveaway

Must be 13+ To Enter | Ships in US only.

1 Winner will get a signed copy of PRESS PLAY and a PRESS PLAY phone case. (Winners chooses case size)

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Book Blast: Life on Hold by Beverly Stowe McClure

Life on Hold

A paper found. A secret revealed. A girl’s life changed forever. Myra Gibson’s life is a lie. For sixteen years her parents have kept their secret, but the adoption paper she discovers while cleaning the guesthouse tells the truth. As the past and present collide, Myra finally stands up for herself and begins a journey she may regret.

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Praise for Life on Hold

All I can say is wow! Beverly Stowe McClure knocked this one out of the ballpark. The story of Myra and her search for the truth touched upon one of the fundamental needs of all children (and teens): the need for a father in their lives. Darby Karchut, author of the Griffin Series and other books for tweens, teens, and adults.

McClure exhibits rare talent in this story which follows a young girl on her journey to discovery as she struggles to be true to herself in this compelling coming-of-age novel.
Children’s Literary Classics Book Reviews (Silver Medal Winner 2012)

Teen readers can easily relate to Myra’s pain and rebellion. Part coming of age, part teen romance, “Life on Hold” is full of surprises. Peggy Tibbetts, author, editor, and associate producer.

Excerpt

As we drove to my house, I gazed out the car window. The moon, hazy around the edges, hung in the sky. Stars smiled down. The evening with Jeremy had been fun, like before his trouble, before KW, before I defied my mother. I tried to hold the happiness of the past hours in my mind, but a sour lump clogged my throat. Shivering, I rubbed my arms. I was as bad as Rachel, thinking only of myself, unconcerned about my mother’s feelings, ignoring the fact she’d worry if she got home before I did.

“You want me to turn off the air conditioner?”

Jeremy’s voice startled me. My thoughts had wandered. Lately, the past kept intruding in my life, making it difficult to concentrate on the present. I looked at Jeremy, who was looking at me, a thin wrinkle between his eyes. “What?”

“You’ve got goose bumps.”

I stared at my arms. Tiny bumps dotted them, yet sweat dampened my palms. “I’m okay,” I said, as okay as I could be, considering I’d hung up on my mother, considering I was with Jeremy.

On the plus side, I was enjoying myself, except for the unwelcome phantom face haunting me every time I blinked ¾ KW. He would not go away. I wanted Dad to be my dad. He wasn’t, at least not my birth-dad. Since he wasn’t really my dad should I keep calling him Dad? Father? Or was Neil better? What about Stepfather? Why was it so hard to make decisions?

Author Beverly Stowe McClure

Most of the time, you’ll find Beverly in front of her computer, writing the stories little voices whisper in her ear. When she’s not writing, she takes long walks and snaps pictures of clouds, wild flowers, birds and deer. She also enjoys visiting with her family and teaching a women’s Sunday school class at her church. To relax she plays the piano. Thank you, Mom, for making encouraging me to practice. Her cats do not appreciate good music and run when she tickles the ivories. She is affectionately known as the “Bug Lady” because she rescues butterflies, moths, walking sticks, and praying mantis from her cats.

Beverly has several articles published in leading children’s magazines. Two of her stories have appeared in CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL Anthologies. She also has nine books for children and teens published, with four more under contract.

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BookBlast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/13/14

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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