Archive for October, 2013

WWW Wednesday

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Hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

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What are you currently reading?

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 The Twilight Swimmer

by A.C. Kavich

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One year after her beloved sister drowned while swimming in cold New England waters, sixteen-year-old Brandi Vine is still struggling to understand what happened. As she mourns on the rocky beach where her sister’s lifeless body washed ashore, she is unaware that a pair of haunting gray eyes is watching her from beneath rolling ocean waves.

When Brandi attends a party that goes horribly awry, the mysterious owner of the gray eyes emerges from the ocean depths and comes to her rescue. She only sees him for a few brief moments, but that’s all it takes to turn Brandi’s world upside down. What were the strange markings on his neck that seemed to flutter with every breath? How did he possess such inhuman strength and grace? And why did he look at Brandi with such longing?

Brandi’s fascination with the Swimmer grows. She makes it her mission to find him again and learn who – and what – he is. Meanwhile, the Swimmer’s fascination with Brandi compels him to leave the safety of the ocean behind, to be with her at all costs. They are from two different worlds, but neither of the star-crossed romantics can resist the pull of the other.

Ultimately, when her feelings for the Swimmer swell beyond her control, Brandi comes to realize that the strange young man from the sea can unlock the secret of her sister’s final swim

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What did you recently finish reading?

The Thin Veil

The Thin Veil

by Tim Meyer

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Something strange is happening in the small town of Pleasant Plains, New Jersey. People are getting sick. Peculiar noises can be heard from inside their homes. Some of them are acting weird, speaking in unknown languages. Then there are the butterflies. And the green pulsating light coming through the cracks in the walls. Oh, and the hunger. Yes, the people of Pleasant Plains are starving and nothing seems to satisfy their primary desire.

Except for the children. The kids have proven to be quite filling…

The Thin Veil is a 35,000 word novella in the vein of Stephen King and B science-fiction movies of the 1950’s.

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What do you think you’ll read next?

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Evergreen

by David Jester

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Evergreen is the peaceful, idyllic home for a bustling traveler community. It is home to Patrick Ryan, the figurehead of the community; home to Aidan McCleary, Patrick’s mentor and friend; home to scores of youngsters and generations of families. But now Evergreen is also home to a sadistic serial killer, someone who is targeting the youngsters of this once peaceful community.They know the killer lives among them, know that one of their own is tearing this small community apart. They want to deal with it themselves, to track down the killer and deliver their own justice, but can they find him before he rips their home apart?Evergreen is a serial killer thriller/whodunnit with a macabre and sinister slant. A book not for the faint hearted.
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So, whatcha readin?

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Sorrow's point TourBanner

I have another awesome book for your Halloween reading list!

Sorrow’s Point by Danielle DeVor.

I read this and went to bed with the lights on!

I have a special guest post for ya, some details about the book and where you can purchase it, and my review!

Oh, don’t forget to enter the fantastic giveaway too!

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Summary:

Not all exorcists are created equal- especially those that are “marked”.

When defrocked ex-priest, Jimmy Holiday, agrees to help an old friend’s sick daughter, Lucy, he unearths unexpected horrors. Blackmoor, his friend’s new residence, has a dark history that makes it appear almost alive. Jimmy must decide if Lucy is only ill, or if the haunting of the house and her apparent possession are real.

After the house begins affecting him as well; seeing colors of magic and his voice taking on an unusual power, Jimmy discovers that he is apparently “marked”. Whatever being “marked” means, Jimmy doesn’t care. He wants to help Lucy. Helping Lucy means performing the exorcism.

Jimmy knows the ceremony, but it’s belief that matters. And if a demon is using a little girl as a meatsuit, his faith had better be strong enough to kick it back to Hell. Otherwise, he might damn them both.~~~~

My Review

I couldn’t resist Sorrow’s Point when I read the description.

Defrocked ex-priest Jimmy Holiday can’t refuse when his old friend, Will, calls him for help. He suspects his young daughter, Lucy, is possessed by a demon.

Upon his arrival at Blackmoor Hall, Jimmy begins to gather the evidence needed  to prove possession so the church will authorize an exorcism.

The old house has a history. A previous owner, Archibald Black, was  obsessed with the dark arts and one headline in an old newspaper proclaimed, “Cannibal or Misunderstood Millionaire?”

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Whatever is inside Lucy likes to play games. The games soon become life threatening  Now none of them go anywhere in the house alone and they’re forced to all sleep in the only safe room in the house.

As Lucy’s condition worsens and her health declines dangerously, Jimmy fears he doesn’t have time to wait for a church sanctioned exorcism. He just may have to do it himself.

This story made me think of The Exorcist. A little girl is possessed by something evil and is no longer that little girl.

Possessions usually start with strange noises and moving objects, like a poltergeist. Then, as with Lucy, subtle changes begin with the victims personality.

Once the possession is complete, things go from bad to really bad very quickly.

That’s where the similarity ends.

The author deftly wrote in more than one point of view and flashed back to the past throughout the story to get you familiar with the history of the small town, the house, and its previous inhabitants. I easily followed the author as she led me along and built her horror in bits and pieces.

I pictured the before Lucy and the Lucy after her possession and while I felt sorry for her, like those in the house, I was afraid of her too. This was not a little girl, but something ancient, something demonic and it wasn’t going away easily.

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When I went to the theatre to see The Exorcist, I was absolutely horrified. I’ve always been afraid of the unseen and when I got home that night I never slept a wink. I lived in Michigan then and it was the dead of winter. When it gets really cold the house cracks loudly, just like the noises described in this book.

I slept with the lights on for a long time after that, and while I can now watch that movie without any ill affects, I’m still terrified of the unknown. Of what lurks beyond our ability to see.

I read this at night, which is my normal reading time. I was okay in the beginning, was okay as I read further, then I said, “Nope, no more tonight!”

Sorrow’s Point is creepy in all capital letters. Keep a torch handy while reading it and whatever you do, don’t go see what the noise is.

One more thing. The ending was fantastic. I really liked what the author sprung on me.

5 Stars

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A Character Guest Post

A Witch’s Thoughts on Demons by Tabby Settle

I’ll freely admit that demons scare me. They aren’t hot men featured on the covers of romance novels. When you meet one- it isn’t pretty.

I’ve been lucky to have two demonic encounters in my life, and the one thing that is the same with both is the smell. Demons stink.

I’m serious. They smell like the worst rotten crap you can imagine. I don’t know about you, but even if a demon was hot, I wouldn’t go near something that smelled like that.

Not that demons are pretty either. Outside a body, they look like a weird dark cloud. Inside a body, well, Linda Blair doesn’t hold a candle to it.

If you can get beyond the look, then there is the feeling. When you encounter a demon, they feel wrong. Or bad. Or evil. Whatever you want to call it.

Now, I keep my pentacle close. Closer than I did before that’s for sure. With the crap I’ve seen from dealing with Jimmy, anything that you have belief in will help you with a demon, but it still can hurt you.

I’m not sure what it all means, but if there is a demon, there has to be a higher power. The fact that my religious stuff worked, well, that’s proof that my stuff is just as good as anything else to ward off evil.

So, don’t romanticize demons. Or, at least be conscious that what you are reading really is fiction. I’d rather not have to help with another exorcism if I can keep from it.

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Danielle Devor

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Danielle DeVor spent her early years fantasizing about vampires and watching “Salem’s Lot” way too many times.  After living briefly in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she moved back to her hometown to write.  When not writing and reading about weird things, you will find her hanging out at the nearest coffee shop, enjoying a mocha frappuccino.

Social Media Links

Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads / Blog

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Prizes
1st – $25 Amazon gift card
2nd – T-shirt with Sorrow’s Point cover
3rd – signed bookmark

US only
midnight US eastern October 15 through 11:59 pm October 25

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways click on the mean greenie below!

Careful though. He Bites!

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FearsomeBlitzBanner

Expresso Book Tours has organized a terrific event!

Check out this blitz for Fearsome by S.A. Wolfe

Read on to learn more about Fearsome, check out the authors favorite quotes, and don’t forget to enter the giveaways.

Yep, two giveaways.

I have one ebook copy of Fearsome to giveaway.

And I have a rafflecopter giveaway for three $100 Gift Cards.

But first, feast your peepers on this amazing cover art for Fearsome.

It looks like it could be hung in an art museum!

Fearsome

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Fearsome by S.A. Wolfe

Publication date: October 2013

Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

 Jessica Channing’s big city life should be more exciting than sixty-hour work weeks and popcorn nights with her girlfriends, but it’s not. She has worked hard fulfilling her role as a child prodigy and graduating college years before her peers. She’s the good girl, the brilliant girl. Unfortunately, she’s also the dateless young woman. That all changes with one phone call. Jess’s rigid, predictable life upends when she must visit a small, obscure town to deal with a relative’s death. This isn’t just any little speck of a town, though. Long lost memories come crashing down on Jess’s world when two men, the Blackard brothers, seem to lure her in. Dylan is cover model handsome, and pursues Jess the minute she comes to town. Then there is tall, dark and gorgeous Carson, who hides his own secrets behind his hardened reserve. For someone who has been governed by her own obsessive behaviors and fears, Jess lets her guard down and jumps at the opportunity to have an affair with a man she actually finds attractive for a change. There’s just one problem. Jess discovers that she can’t have a simple romantic fling because true passion does indeed come with some very big strings attached to it. She will have to own up to her own truths about love and face the two extraordinary men; both troubled in their own ways and both determined to have her.

This novel contains graphic sexual content and strong language. It is intended for mature readers.
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Some of the authors Favorite excerpts from Fearsome

“Hey, Bixby,” a deep voice says from behind us. Archie and I both turn to where a man has jumped out of a truck. He looks like he’s in his mid-twenties or older; muscular build, very tall, dark brown, tussled, shoulder length hair and broad shoulders on a trim frame. He is definitely too handsome, too gorgeous and too intimidating for me. He’s the kind of guy any woman would notice. He looks like he walked right out of a truck commercial. He even has the faded jeans, well-worn T-shirt and dusty work boots to complete the picture. I can’t help staring.

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I nod as if I understand the precarious nature of Carson Blackard when the only thing I know about this guy is that he sure knows how to put sexy into a pair of grubby work jeans.

***

“Oh boy, here’s trouble,” Lauren says, looking over my shoulder. I turn around to see a very cute guy walk into the diner. He’s what I’d call a summer boy, the Ralph Lauren ad; a tall, tan, athletic guy who sports sun-bleached light brown curls and a casually confident air. Sure, I can surf. Sure, I play polo, who doesn’t? Sure, I scuba dive, sky dive and ski off cliffs.

***

(This one was too funny not to include!) “Just go chop your trees and things,” I repeat, waving him on and putting my sombrero back on to hide my face. He walks off, chuckling. “Hope you don’t lose your pecker,” I mutter so he can’t hear.

***

“I had no idea the country had this kind of entertainment.” I’m mesmerized with Carson’s waist and the muscles flexing just above his jeans. “Wow.”

“Yes, our country boys got it going on,” Imogene says in a country twang.

***

“Stop. Dylan, we have to stop.” I move his hand away.

“Really?” he asks, panting.

“We barely know each other, and I’m not a one-night-stand girl.”

“I don’t want you for one night,” he says, fighting for control of his body back. “I want you for every night.”

***

“What happened to Dylan the playboy? I heard you really got around in college.”

“That was then, this is now. It’s not like I was a criminal or a junkie. I went out with a lot of women. Don’t judge me by what I did in the past, Jess.”

“Fair enough, but don’t expect me to change my mind because you’ve got a party in your pants.”

***

Dylan towers over me, solid, thick muscles, making him look like he has been created to resemble the perfect Romanesque sculpture. He puts his hands on either side of my arms and waits for me. I unfasten the front clasp of my lace bra and wriggle out of it.

***

“Don’t worry. I’ll be gentle, the first time,”

***

Yes, and if you keeping holding my hand and caressing my palm, my body is going to shatter.

***

“I have wanted to kiss you for three hundred and sixty days,” he says between kisses. “How’s that number for you?”

“I’m not sure it’s accurate,” I say through breathless pants.

***

“Are you ready to be a grownup?” Imogene asks, standing over my bed.

“This is a fuckervention,” Lauren says from the other side of the bed. “Stop breaking his heart. And yours.”

***

“Whoa. Where do you think you’re going?” He grabs my arm. “We’re still dancing, Babycakes.”

***

He strides toward me and takes my hand to pull me towards the stairs.

“We’re doing it your way,” he says.

“What’s my way?”

“No talking, no strings.”

He walks me briskly upstairs to his bedroom and closes the door. Before I can say anything, his mouth is on mine, hot and frantic. My whole body responds immediately. I run my fingers through his hair and then his tongue and lips are on my neck. A rush of cool air envelopes my body as I realize Carson has pushed my dress straps off my shoulders and it falls to the floor.

“Keep the shoes on,” he demands, still kissing me and pulling my panties down at the same time.

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S.A. Wolfe

S. A. Wolfe lives with her wonderfully loud, opinionated children and awesome husband. She is a voracious reader and passionate about writing, and when those two activities don’t keep her locked away in her room, she loves hiking mountains as much as she adores all the thrills New York City has to offer.
Author Links:

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I have one ebook copy to give away!

International Giveaway. Open for all my friends!

To enter, please leave your email address and answer this question,

“What’s your favorite movie to watch on Halloween?”

And another GIveaway!

You can win one of THREE $100 Gift Cards!

Click on the rafflecopter image below to enter.

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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

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Xpresso Book Tours

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways, click on the mean greenie below.

Careful though. He’s been known to bite!

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Cover Reveal: Sworn To Conflict by Terah Edun + #Giveaway (International)

On Sale on Amazon, iTunes & Barnes & Noble December 6, 2013

                       

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Book Description:

Ciardis Weathervane fought for the living dead and won. But worse than taking on a mass murderer, was her discovery that she had been deceived by her friends. Now she needs to not only fight a war in the North and survive, but also decide where she stands in the midst of competing sides.

A threat to all she holds dear lies in the North and her heart is not the only thing she might lose. A massive army awaits in the mountain pass, surging closer to the gates of the southern lands. Nothing the Algardis army has done so far has dissuaded their march forward and Ciardis finds out that her powers to enhance are needed now more than ever.

As she faces her greatest fears on the battlefields and her heart is torn between her love of Sebastian and loyalty to her family, Ciardis must choose her fate carefully. For in her path, lies the destiny of the empire.

This third novel continues the story of Ciardis Weathervane from Sworn To Transfer.

 

Connect with Terah: Author Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Series Order Links:

Sworn To Raise (Book One)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C9VC7AY/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/2940016661742
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sworn-to-raise/id642043648?ls=1

Sworn To Transfer (Book Two)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F8PIH0W
www.barnesandnoble.com/s/2940148397472

 

International Giveaway!

Terah is giving away 1 signed copy of Sworn To Transfer, 1 eARC of Sworn To Conflict, and 1 ebook of Sworn To Raise or Sworn To Transfer.

There are 3 total winners!

CLICK HERE to enter!

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Good Luck!

 

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page.
•Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

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My Teaser for today is from Empath

by Becca J. Campbell

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My Teaser

The only features he recognized were the brownish-gold eyes staring back at him in shock. And the only word that came to mind was monster.

From 30% into the book.

This book is so good. You can catch my review on October 20th!

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How about you? Got a tease? Tell me!

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Heartbreak Ranch release banner

I have a deep love for all things western. I’d be on top of the world if I lived on a ranch.

I am surrounded by them though, and that’s easier. I don’t have to maintain them to enjoy them.

That’s why I love western romances, historical or modern.

I love cowboys and animals. Throw in some romance and great characters with fun names, and I’m happy for the those hours I’m in the book.

Learn more about Graysen and Colt and don’t forget to enter the giveaway.

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Heartbreak Ranch
by 
Anastasia Ryan
Release Date: 10/15/13
Publisher: Swoon Romance
New Adult 17+

Summary from Goodreads:


Recent college graduate, Graysen Beaufort, resigns herself to two weeks of boredom at a dude ranch honoring her parents’ wishes for one last family vacation.

She doesn’t plan on meeting Colt McCord, an irresistible cowboy who threatens to bring disorder to Graysen’s ordinarily ordered life.

Dodging an overprotective family, an unwelcome suitor, and certain heartbreak, Graysen struggles to break free of her limitations and submit her heart to Colt’s love. But learning to let go isn’t easy, even with a man like Colt.

Colt McCord, White Pine Ranch’s head horse trainer, loves the busy, back-breaking work of a cattle ranch.

But when he meets a beautiful and spirited woman from Iowa, she makes him forget everything he’d known before, and he risks everything to be with her.

Colt is accustomed to breaking horses, but can he tame Graysen’s wild heart before it is too late?

 

Buy Links: Amazon / B&N

About the Author

heartbreak ranch anastasia ryan

Anastasia Ryan is a native New Yorker, but lives in Iowa with her family. She loves the beautiful chaos of raising six children. She is her husband’s girlfriend, but is also quite smitten with the written word. As the daughter of teachers, she has had a love of both great literature and writing in her blood since she was a baby. At a very early age, you would have found her perched on her father’s lap as he typed out his Master’s thesis for English. She is addicted to great books she can get lost in, finds cooking relaxing, is a sometimes web geek, and loves spending time with family and friends. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Creative Writing.


Anastasia Ryan’s debut new adult novel HEARTBREAK RANCH will be released by Swoon Romance in the Fall of 2013. 

Author Links:

Blog / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

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Giveaway:

1 ebook of Heartbreak Ranch and $10 iTunes Gift Card (INT)

3 ebooks of Heartbreak Ranch (INT)

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

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Book Blitz Organized by:
YA Bound Book Tours

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways, click on the mean greenie below.

Careful though. He’s been known to bite!

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SistersInBloom

It’s a pleasure to have Melissa Foster on my blog again.

Let’s learn more about Sisters in Bloom, Snow Sisters #2!

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Synopsis
You loved Danica and Kaylie in SISTERS IN LOVE, find out what happens next with
SISTERS IN BLOOM

Kaylie Snow has always been the fun, flirty, pretty sister. Now, her burgeoning baby bump, hormone infused emotions, and faltering singing career are sending her into an unexpected identity crisis. Watching her older sister Danica glide through a major career change and a new relationship with the grace of a ballerina, Kaylie’s insecurities rise to the forefront—and her relationship, with fiancé Chaz Crew, is caught in the crossfire.

Chaz Crew has everything he’s ever wanted: a lovely fiancé, a baby on the way, and soon, the film festival he owns will host its biggest event ever. When he’s called away to woo the festival’s largest sponsor—and the lover he’s never admitted to having—secrets from his past turn his new life upside down.

With her baby shower around the corner, and her fiancé’s big event looming, the pressure is on for Kaylie to pull herself together—and for Chaz to right his wrongs. In a few short weeks, the couple who had it all figured out will learn things about life and love that may change their minds—and their hearts.

SISTERS IN BLOOM is a testament to the bond of sisters, the strength of women, and the pains and delights that accompany motherhood. A book for every mother, sister, and daughter, SISTERS IN BLOOM will resonate with readers who love to explore family dramas

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Melissa Foster
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Melissa Foster is the award-winning author of four International bestselling novels. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the Women’s Nest, a social and support community for women, the World Literary Café. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on  Fostering Success. Melissa is also a community builder for the Alliance for Independent Authors. She has been published in Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Huffington Post, and Women Business Owners magazine.

Melissa hosts an annual Aspiring Authors contest for children and has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Melissa lives in Maryland with her family.

Visit Melissa on The Women’s Nest, Fostering Success, or World Lit Cafe. Join Melissa and the YaYa Writer Girls at their annual in-person event. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups, and welcomes an invitation to your event.

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You can win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!

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Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Giveaway is open to US Only. | Must be 13+ to Enter
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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways, click on the mean greenie below.

Careful though. He’s been known to bite!

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bronzeTour Schedule

I love it when I find a new series to follow.

The Glister Journals : Bronze is the first of four in this series.

I’m looking forward to getting lost in these books and becoming friends with the characters.

Read on to learn more and don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

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Bronze

The Glister Journals: Bronze

Allison Anderson knows she’s a little different, but it hadn’t bothered her too much-until now. Moving away from everything she’s ever known to a new house, new neighborhood, and new school is bad enough, but it’s her first year of high school too, making it even more intimidating. She’s more aware of her social and physical limitations than ever before. And then there are the new people she meets: the tough-looking girl in her home room; the cute but dangerous-looking boy she first saw before school even started; the quiet, older girl who keeps to herself; the sullen-looking, seemingly isolated junior that doesn’t seem to trust or like her at all. Can she trust them? While the peaceful situation of her new home only amplifies the sound of her own doubts, she begins to learn that things are not always what they seem, and her world is turned upside-down by these new friends, two-legged and otherwise. Life soon becomes more complicated, and much more interesting!

*****

Enjoy this Excerpt.

First Encounters

 

After a moment I could hear an engine—a high, uneven revving approaching from that direction—and a rider on a motorcycle came into view around the corner in the road. As he slowly drew closer, the engine noise dropped to a lower, even drone. He was looking from side to side, ahead, and sometimes behind as he drove. He had almost passed the house when he caught sight of me, looked away, did a quick double take, rode the bike in almost a full circle in the middle of the road, then sat staring at me, legs to the ground, his bike idling.

I realized at once, of course, that it was the sight of the dog which had caught his attention, not me, but that didn’t stop my cheeks from feeling like they had burst into flames. It wasn’t a response I was used to and I hoped that he wouldn’t be able to notice it that far away or that my sunburn was covering it. I thought he was the most attractive boy I’d ever seen. It was difficult to tell how tall he was, but the one jeans-clad leg I could see looked long and slim, and the tanned arms holding the handlebars of the motorcycle were very well-muscled for someone who didn’t look too much older than myself. I guessed he was probably about sixteen but could have been older. I would be turning fifteen in January but was sure I looked about twelve.

The boy’s hair was a medium brown and even at this distance I could see highlights of a lighter shade. It was a little on the long side, longer than most of the boys I’d gone to school with anyway, and slightly wavy. His face was tanned too, and while I couldn’t tell the color of his eyes, his eyebrows were dark and finely shaped. From what I could tell, at this distance and with my imperfect vision, he looked really cute.

My mind was racing. Should I just sit here? Maybe he was waiting for me to do something. Should I stand up? Not a good idea. Long expanses of skinny burned flesh with welts and scratches from my ramble the other day could hardly be attractive. He probably wouldn’t see them from the road, but I knew they were there. Should I talk to him?

‘Um . . . hello . . . is this your dog?’ Of course it was his dog. Why else would he even be looking over here? That would sound way too stupid.

‘Um . . . nice dog. What’s its name?’ I’d have to yell if I wanted him to really hear me. I didn’t like yelling. My voice would probably crack and squeak; it always did if I tried to talk too loudly.

The next thing I knew, he gave a loud, high-pitched whistle—I was impressed that he didn’t have to use his fingers in his mouth to do it—revved his engine twice, and raced back down the street the way he had come. The dog hadn’t shown any inclination to move until hearing the whistle, though it had been watching the boy the whole time. Now it didn’t hesitate or look back at me but tore after him and soon disappeared from sight.

*****

About The Glister Journals series:

The Glister Journals series is told from the perspective of a normal but not average teenage girl. It is not obvious, but Allison has a mild pervasive developmental disorder (autism spectrum). She thinks and experiences things a little differently from most of the other kids. In the past it has caused her to be alienated at best and bullied at worst. After the family moves, she becomes involved with a group of teens that open up new worlds to her. The four book series follows her through high school but is equally about her friends who have their own problems, fears, and aspects of their lives they’d rather keep quiet. There is action—mostly in the form of equestrian and extreme sports—and though there are only hints of it in Bronze, there is a love story which will play a more prominent part as the series progresses. The main story is about assumptions, acceptance, love, and friendship, though there are other themes running throughout the series.

****

Amazon * Indiebound * Barnes & Noble

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Praise for Bronze

Allison narrates a gentle coming-of-age story that has a strong equine subplot…undeveloped plot points hint at future complications and will likely keep readers looking for the next entry. — Cindy Welch Booklist Online

Written with intelligent humor, this tale follows an awkward girl as she enters a new school…This is a strong first book, both for Shepherd and for the series. The friendships the characters build are realistic and lifelike, strong, and durable, just like bronze. — Beth VanHouten ForeWord Reviews

The story is well-written and sweetly told. Allison’s anxieties and insecurities are true-to-life, and so affectionately and clearly portrayed as to make anyone who’s ever been through adolescence wince in sympathy. Dave, Robin and Chris are complicated, intelligent, three-dimensional characters whom the reader enjoys getting to know, and all of the minor characters are vividly drawn and believably real. The author is adept at setting a scene, both external and internal, bringing Allison’s mind and world to vivid life. — Catherine Langrehr IndieReader

“Bronze: The Glister Journals” is a well-written novel of teenagers and their world. It is also a story of horses and teenage horsemanship. The main character Allison is a totally delightful fourteen year old girl whose innocence and awkwardness is refreshing. — Alice DiNizo Readers’ Favorite

indie reader

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Literary Fiction IndieReader Award Winner

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BBAuthor B.B. Shepherd

A graduate of Cal Poly with graduate work at Chapman and U C Santa Cruz, B. B. Shepherd has lived most of her life in California and loves the diverse beauty of its many landscapes. Music, horses, literature, and art have been her passions as long as she can remember. She enjoys road trips, almost all horse sports and extreme sports (as a spectator), and is addicted to research.

As a writer, Shepherd enjoys exploring emotions and motivations: why do people do what they do? She also likes trying to find the funny side of things. She admits to being a hopeless romantic and often gets in trouble for her sense of humor. Bronze is her debut novel, the first in a series of four called The Glister Journals. She currently works full time as a music professional and educator, and lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her youngest daughter and a very silly cat.

Website * Facebook * Goodreads * Twitter * Blog

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Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Ends 10/31/13

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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

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DarkMigrationTourBanner

Dark Migration should be perfect for your Halloween reading list!

It’s a dark horror fantasy.

Check it out to learn more and don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

You could win a signed paperback copy.

Dark Migration

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Dark Migration by Sandra R Campbell
Publication date: August 2013
Genres: Dark Fantasy, Horror, New Adult
Synopsis:
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Seanna Raines is on a journey of self-discovery. Only her search does not include college applications or finding a cool summer job. After  killing Samuel Bolvayne, the ‘man’ she fears and loves, Seanna is not  looking for who she is, but rather what she will become.

Samuel spent countless lifetimes trying to forge a companion like  himself, but his previous attempts were considered failures. Until  Seanna. She is his first true success… and his ultimate undoing. Now,  without Samuel to guide her, Seanna is lost. To survive, she needs to  find out what her transformation means: super strength, the ability to  smell human emotions, and an ever-increasing need to devour human souls. Seanna travels to Samuel’s earthly homeland, along the coast of South  Africa, in search of answers. Here, she encounters several of his failed experiments, who claim to know the truth. These abominations lead her  into a sinister world of chaos and destruction, where the birthplace of  evil is revealed.

Seanna clings to the last piece of her humanity while struggling to  accept her feelings for Samuel and what she has done to him. Just as  Seanna embraces her fate, she is forced to choose between life as an  immortal with the one she loves or sacrifice it all to save a world that does not deserve saving.

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Enjoy this glimpse inside Dark Migration

“That pretty young thing is capable of destroying each and every one of you, and with very little effort.” A pinched male voice echoed off the tiled galley walls. Edona and Marko quickly disbursed to another part of the room. Pike stepped aside but kept one hand locked on mine.

Bennett Palmer was hunch-backed with long wiry limbs resembling those of an insect, but when he moved across the room, he seemed to almost slither. Up close he looked very much like a human fly. His abnormally large eyes were too far apart, and his grayish skin was pulled too tight over a misshapen head, threatening to tear at any movement. Long clumps of stringy dark hair hung from various points on his skull. To say he was grotesque would be putting it mildly; he was a monstrosity. As he inched his way closer, I redirected my talents toward him. I received nothing but shadow with a hint of something unearthly sadistic.

He’s not human.

Bennett tapped the side of his head with a crooked finger. “There is no need to waste such wonderful talents on me.”

He knows, but how does he know?

Giving me a once-over before bending slightly to put us at eye level, Bennett cracked his lips, revealing several rotten teeth. “A lovely creature, you are. Samuel is undeniably proud of himself. I have never smelled another Dereltego as sweet as you.” The unimaginable stench that accompanied his words made me gag.

“I’ve never smelled anything as retched as you. What are you?”

Pike’s grip tightened on my hand. Even though the man’s presence made his skin crawl, he hadn’t moved away. Pike always knew that something wasn’t right about this man, and now he hoped he might actually find out what that was.

“My sweet, it is none of your concern. Why not get some rest before Val wakes. You have been a busy girl and will have a lot to answer for.”

Asshole.

Practically hissing, Bennett took a step back to direct his sizzling words at Pike. “See to it she is showered and ready for dinner.” He spun away from us, quickly making his way to the swinging doors. Just as he was about to exit, he turned to flash a hideous smile. “Oh, and Seanna, please try your best not to kill anyone else.”

Rage had been building from the moment he walked through the door, and not wanting to waste it, I lashed out before he could make a grand exit. “Maybe I’ll just kill you instead.”

Bennett paused in the doorway, appearing to cower with his humped shoulders, only to stand straight up and laugh. “You certainly may try.”

A chilly silence hung in the air after Bennett’s departure. Everyone there believed Bennett was evil, and they knew Val to be a vampire. But now there was another ‘unnatural’ being to contend with, only I didn’t come with any defining labels.

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Purchase:
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Sandra R. Campbell
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authorphotoDM
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Sandra R. Campbell lives along the tranquil waters of the Chesapeake Bay with her new husband and weight challenged cat. She can trace her passion for the macabre back to reading Edgar Allen Poe as a child, with her pet crow, Big Fellow, by her side. She has since submerged herself in a wide range of dark literature. An avid thrill seeker, Sandra is always looking for her next big adrenaline rush, and when spelunking, climbing, diving and monster hunting fails to deliver, she turns to the creation of through-the-rabbit-hole worlds and sends her characters on their own adventures. Her first NA paranormal thriller, Butterfly Harvest, was published in September 2010. Sandra also writes children’s stories, is an active member of the Maryland Writers’ Association and the head of a MWA critique group.
Author links:
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I have one signed paperback copy of Dark Migration to give away today!

To enter, please leave your email address so I can contact you and answer this question,

“What is your favorite Halloween costume?”

Giveaway ends November 4th.

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Xpresso Book Tours

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For all of my giveaways click on the monster below!

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Spooktacular2013

Welcome to the 4th Annual Spooktacular Giveaway Hop

Hosted by
I Am A Reader, Not A Writer !

I’m so excited. This is my first time doing this tour and it is huge!

For my giveaway, you can enter to win the complete Hunger Games Trilogy in Paperback.

This is the complete paperback set!

The stunning Hunger Games trilogy is complete!The extraordinary, ground breaking New York Times bestsellers The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, along with the third book in The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, are available for the first time ever in a beautiful boxset edition. Stunning, gripping, and powerful. The trilogy is now complete!

Set in a dark vision of near future a terrifying reality TV show is taking place. Twelve boys and twelve girls are forced to appear in a live event called The Hunger Games. There is only one rule: kill or be killed. When sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen steps forward to take her younger sister’s place in the games, she sees it as a death sentence

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This is an International Giveaway. Everyone can enter!

Entry is easy!

Leave your email address and say something spooky in your comment. For an extra entry you can follow me by email and say you did so in the same comment.

Go HERE for all of the tour stops. So many awesome giveaways to enter!

Happy Halloween and Good Luck!

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For all of my giveaways click on the mean green monster above!

Careful though, he bites!

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