Friday, May 2, 2014

Release Day! Surrender the Sky by Meradeth Houston

 


"I wish I didn't know. I wish my heart hadn't been seared black in my chest. I wish everything were different." - Surrender the Sky

 
  Surrender the Sky by Meradeth Houston Gabby lives by two unbreakable rules: don’t expose her kind, the Sary, and don’t fall in love—too bad some rules are made to be broken.

When Gabby’s most difficult charge accidentally shoots her in front of a class full of students, the event exposes her carefully hidden identity. She shifts from looking like a normal teen to her secret Sary form, revealing her wings and the existence of her kind—immortals who try to keep people from committing suicide. Her incident attracts the attention of the next leader of the Sary, Jassen, who offers her an impossible bargain: she can keep her wings if she makes amends with those who know the truth. Things get more complicated when a rebel Sary, intent on exposing them to the world, starts interfering with Gabby’s work. And there’s no denying her attraction to Jassen, who is torn between his duties and his heart. With threats at every turn and her immortality on the line, Gabby has to find a way to save the Sary or surrender the sky forever.
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Surrender the Sky is Available Now for only .99 Cents!
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Excerpt
"
" I knew the day was not going to end well as soon as I saw the gun. It bulged in the outside pocket of his backpack, hidden unless someone looked for it. Of course, I had to be the one looking for it.
Chad kept his head down in class, his pen scratching dark lines of some doodle across his paper. I couldn’t drag my gaze away from him.
He’d brought a gun. Damn it. He was going to follow through with his plan.
I was focusing so hard on the knot of guilt in my stomach and the tangle of plans to stop Chad that Bea had to kick my chair to alert me class had started. Of course, Bea had to be in this class with the homicidal kid who was my responsibility.
I did a quick head count. It was Friday, half-day schedule, last period, with spring break starting next week. Most everyone had ditched already, and only thirteen people remained, including our teacher.
Unfortunately, just enough of the students on Chad’s list stayed for the last class. "
 
Companion Novel on Limited Time Sale!

.99 cent sale - Limited Time!
About the Author, Meradeth Houston
meradeth
I've never been a big fan of talking about myself, but if you really want to know, here are some random tidbits about me:
>I'm a California girl. This generally means I talk too fast and use "like" a lot.
>I have my doctorate in molecular anthropology. Translation: I sequence dead people's DNA and spend a whole lot of time in a lab, which I love.
>I've been writing since I was 11 years old. It's my hobby, my passion, and I'm so happy to get to share my work!
>My other passion is teaching. There's nothing more fun than getting a classroom of college kids fired up about anthropology!
>If I could have a super-power, it would totally be flying. Which is a little strange, because I'm terrified of heights.

Dreams of Gods and Monsters by Laini Taylor

Amazon Product Description:
In this thrilling conclusion to the Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy, Karou is still not ready to forgive Akiva for killing the only family she's ever known.

When a brutal angel army trespasses into the human world, Karou and Akiva must ally their enemy armies against the threat--and against larger dangers that loom on the horizon. They begin to hope that it might forge a way forward for their people. And, perhaps, for themselves--maybe even toward love.

From the streets of Rome to the caves of the Kirin and beyond, humans, chimaera, and seraphim will fight, strive, love, and die in an epic theater that transcends good and evil, right and wrong, friend and enemy.

My thoughts:
This is a fantastic edition to a wonderful series.  I fell in love with Karou and the rest of the characters in the first book, Daughter of Smoke and Bone, and now find my breath held as I hope and fear, laugh and cry with them all on their journey.  The depths of the characters and the story is amazing.  The writing is something you don't see often - I get lost instantly in the story as it transports me to their world.  The story is filled with so much emotion that it becomes real.  I am awed by the ideas and ideals portrayed - the deception and risk that they take, the dedication to save not only their people, but the angels too; the "real" world could learn a thing or two about compassion.  The writing is vivid and very imaginative.  I was saddened when the book ended, and torn about the fact that the story left me wanting and hoping for more...

Remarkable and larger than life - don't miss this incredible series by a talented weaver of tales.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Review: The Argentine Triangle by Allan Topol

Amazon Product Description:
After a fall from grace and drastic cosmetic surgery in Switzerland, former CIA director Craig Page is enjoying a new, exhilarating life racing cars across Europe. But when new dangers threaten America and an old friend goes missing during a covert mission in Argentina, will Craig be ready to step up to the plate? 

Undercover in the glamorous world of Buenos Aires’ wealthy elite, Page finds himself on the brink of a terrible discovery. General Estrada and Colonel Schiller have plans for Argentina, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. A world of brutality hidden in the classified secrets of Argentina’s Dirty War comes to light, painting an image of the cataclysmic future awaiting Estrada’s South America. To expose Estrada and put an end to his plot, Page is forced to implement every instinct, skill, and tool in his arsenal. But when it comes time to close in for the kill, Page meets with unexpected complications—love, lust, and a lethal game of cat and mouse. 

My thoughts:
I like a good political thriller so I was glad to receive this book in exchange for an honest review.  

The story started fast and is filled with action.  The characters are interesting and the story holds you.  The author paints the world for the reader; rich with history and detail, including much of the darkness.   In the characters we find corruption, power, greed and revenge as well as dedication, devotion and loyalty as driving forces.  This was my first Allan Topol book, so I was a little lost in some of the character's backgrounds, but it did not deter from the story.  If you are like me and always want to know more, I would suggest reading the books in order so that you had all of the back story.

I enjoyed reading the book and would readily read more from this author.

Monday, April 28, 2014

Entangled Edge Release Day!


Edge, a digital-first single-title romance line from Entangled Publishing, takes its lead from their popular Select imprint but gives its novels an edge in the marketplace by bringing great stories to readers at reasonable prices in a quick-and-easy way. Whether sexy or sweet, traditional romance or love and lust with a women’s fiction bent, at the center of every Edge book is heart. From Urban Fantasy to Contemporary Romance to Science Fiction Romance, Edge has a book for all romance readers—and right at their fingertips! As they say, all’s fair in love and war. To find out more about their titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books are coming next, visit the Entangled website, follow them on Twitter, and like their Facebook page.

Today I'm happy to be featuring Edge's April 28th releases!!



Night Child by Lisa Kessler
Night #4

Special $0.99 Introductory Price For One Week ONLY!


Find Out More!

Issa is one of the original Night Walkers, a proud protector of the mortal world. Now, when the key to the survival of the entire Night Walker race rests on protecting an unborn child, Issa is the only immortal strong enough to defend Muriah and the prophecy. But Muriah’s headstrong spirit and soulful eyes awaken feelings in him that are best left buried. When the Egyptian God of Chaos sstrikes, Muriah and Issa must find the lost scrolls to trap him. But as the battle between love and chaos ensues, sacrifices must be made…


Call of the Siren by Rosalie Lario
Demons of the Infernum #4 

Special $0.99 Introductory Pricing!

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Siren-demon hybrid bounty hunter Dagan Meyers swore he'd never settle down. Tying himself to one woman is so not his bag. Until he meets the gorgeous angel Lina, and can’t think of being with anybody BUT her. The last thing Lina wants is to develop feelings for the smooth-talking man she knows will eventually leave her. But as they battle a growing darkness—a powerful dark fae who’s harnessed untold power—Dagan and Lina find that love may be their greatest weapon against the evil that threatens to destroy them all.



Angel Kin by Tricia Skinner
Angel Assassins #1

Special $0.99 Introductory Pricing!


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When a beautiful woman comes to The Bound Ones, half-angel assassin Cain is immediately drawn to her. But when Katie fingers him as the killer, he can come to only one conclusion. His twin, who he thought was dead, is very much alive…and sending him a message. Unfortunately, that message is: “You’re next.” Now, with Katie’s life in his hands, Cain must fight to keep them both alive. But Abel has just one goal: destroy his brother, starting with the woman he’s falling in love with.



Just A Kiss by Ally Broadfield

Novella Only $0.99!


Charlotte Lightwood has one season to find a husband or she'll be forced to marry her guardian's loathsome cousin. With no title or dowry, she doesn't have much hope of making a good match. Sebastian Wilkinson, the Earl of Marley, has been the most eligible bachelor on the marriage mart for more years than he cares to count and is very aware of his duty to marry a woman who will add to the wealth and stature of his title. Sebastian makes Charlotte an offer she can't refuse: he will pretend to court her to help her attract more suitors in exchange for her advice about which ladies he should pursue. As they work together, their mutual attraction grows. When they realize they just might be perfect for one another, they must decide whether to bow to the dictates of society or follow their hearts.



The Demon Lord by Paula Altenburg
Demon Outlaws #2.5

Novella Only $0.99!

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The Demon Lord has conquered the mortal world and sampled its pleasures. Now all he needs is to conquer the goddess who is meant to complete him. The goddess Allia, however, has other plans. She is sent by her immortal sisters to win the heart of the Demon Lord and make him her slave but soon discovers that the Demon Lord’s heart is not easily given, and that in order to win it, she must sacrifice her own.

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Review: The Demon Lord by Paula Altenburg

Entangled Edge Publishing!
Click HERE for more information about titles and release dates!

The Demon Lord has conquered the mortal world and sampled its pleasures. Now all he needs is to conquer the goddess who is meant to complete him. She, however, has other plans.

Allia is sent by her goddess sisters to win the heart of the Demon Lord and make him her slave. But Allia soon discovers that the Demon Lord's heart is not easily given, and that in order to win it, she must sacrifice her own.

Click HERE to buy a copy ~ release date April 28!

My thoughts:
I have enjoyed books by Paula Altenburg before and was thrilled with the opportunity to read this short story.  The characters are developed quickly and with depth and personality.  The story is short but I found myself lost in the descriptive language and vivid pictures the writing created in my mind.  I enjoyed the discovery of love and the desire of the characters to be more together than they were separately.  I was hooked with her word choice and skill in storytelling.  Reading this short story was a bit like rediscovering her as an author and I can't wait to find the time to read more.
(I received this book compliments of Entangled Edge in exchange for an honest review).

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Blog Tour: Lost Library by Kate Baray

This virtual book tour is presented by Bewitching Book Tours.
Click HERE for more tour information.

Welcome to The Wormhole and my stop on the tour.
It is my pleasure to feature Kate Baray and Lost Library.

About the Author:

Kate Baray is a paranormal romance and urban fantasy writer. She lives and writes in Austin, Texas with the help of her spotty dogs and hound. Kate has worked as an attorney, a manager, a tractor sales person, and a dog trainer. All exciting and interesting jobs, but none so much as writing!




Kate has stopped by for an interview:
? When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I gave it a try in the second grade, had a bit of a hiccup, then picked it up about thirty years later…which is now J

? How many jobs did you have before you became a writer?

Too many to count, but some of the more interesting ones in no particular order include, tractor parts & service marketing rep , lawyer, dog trainer, and cleaning person. If student counts, that was one of my favorites!

? How long does it take you to write a book?

For a rough/first draft, four to five weeks. That doesn’t include all of the fantastic help of friends and beta readers, as well as multiple rounds of editing.

? What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

I adore writing in bed under the covers when it’s cold outside…but I live in Texas. It’s a good thing a like writing at other times quite a bit, too ;)

? Where do you get your ideas or inspiration for your characters?

Little pieces from a variety of people I know or have met and experiences I’ve personally had. And, of course, my imagination. No character is any one person I’ve ever met. So, for example, I may have seen someone at the grocery who had particularly lovely hair, and one of my characters will have a similar hair color or style.

? How do you decide what you want to write about?

I have a few friends who help iron out plot details for me. There may occasionally be a beer or a margarita involved. The overall tone isn’t really a choice, just how I write. And the genre was a specific choice because I thoroughly enjoy urban fantasy, romance, and paranormal romance.

? What books have most influenced your life?

That’s a big question, and I’m not sure I know. But there are books that represent important points in my life and for which I have really fond memories.

When I was an exchange student in Germany, I wanted to read in my spare time but wasn’t sure that I could understand a book I’d never read before.  My German was pretty sketchy at the time J So I hunted until I found something I’d read (and loved) before—Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Swiftly Tilting Planet” was what I landed on. A little piece of home, a familiar story but rediscovered in a new language. It was perfect, and I still love that book!

? What are you reading right now?

I’m beta reading Lori Ryan’s second book in the Evers series.  She’s a good friend and a very entertaining writer – check her out! And since your interview has reminded of a great book I haven’t read in a while, I’ll be revisiting A Swiftly Tilting Planet ;)

? What do you like to do when you are not writing?

Hang out with my dogs, volunteer with my search and rescue team, and try to kick my tv addiction. Hulu and Acorn.tv are not my friends.

? What is your favorite comfort food?

Queso or peanut butter cookies, depending on if I’m feeling salty or sweet.

? What do you think makes a good story?

Specifically, for me, when I’m choosing a story, I want something that entertains. Preferably a story that supports my silly assumption that the world is populated by mostly good and decent, if complex, people. (See below for favorite writers.) I think Julia Quinn does a fabulous job of creating realistically lovely characters—they’re exceptionally nice without being reduced to caricatures of real people.

? Who would you consider your favorite author and why?

It depends on what day you ask, because my top ten can fluctuate. I’m a huge fan of Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series and Julia Quinn.

Fun random questions: 
·        dogs or cats? Dogs
·        Coffee or tea? Both!
·        Dark or milk chocolate? Milk…or white
·        Rocks or flowers?  Flowers
·        Night or day? Night
·        Favorite color? purple
·        Crayons or markers? Dry erase J
·        Pens or pencils? pens

Lost Library
Kate Baray

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Word count: approx. 71k
Pages: approx. 275

Book Description:

Author Kate Baray begins her new paranormal romance series with Lost Library, a tale of werewolves, magic, adventure and romance. 

John Braxton arrives unannounced on Lizzie’s doorstep. Little does she know that when she invites him to a drink on the porch, Lizzie opens the door to a secret world of werewolves—oops, they don’t like that name!—Lycan, magic, spelled books, and power hungry evildoers. Caught up in one man’s search for power, Lizzie soon begins to uncover surprising secrets about her own past and powers.

And romance with a serious but sexy Lycan? It might just happen…

Excerpt:
Worth had almost reached the door, when he stopped, straightened, then let out a guttural snarl. A noise very unlike the urbane, sophisticated man Lizzie had seen thus far. He stood silently for a moment. When he turned, Lizzie couldn’t see any sign of the anger or distress he’d voiced. He looked exactly as he always had, elegant and in control. Her heart beat erratically, quickening in panic then slowing as she willed herself to be calm. Something was horribly wrong, every instinct told her so. But she would maintain her composure.
            Worth spoke to both Moore and Lizzie, saying, “I’ll be keeping you company for a few minutes longer. We have some unexpected guests.”
            No! Not now, not yet. That was her first thought. She knew it was John. In her gut—in her heart—she knew it was John. She feared for her family, certainly. But the immediacy of his presence made him the focus of her fear. Worth was a factor John couldn’t have accounted for.
            Her response to Worth was visceral. He frightened her on a level she didn’t truly comprehend. It was as if the juxtaposition of his polished image and the malevolence she knew he harbored made him even more terrible and frightening. Evil should look evil, dammit.
            She needed some kind of plan. She had to help, because sitting by and watching the man she just might be falling in love with fall prey to Worth—well, no. That wasn’t happening.
Giveaway:

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My thoughts:
Fantastic read!  The characters are wonderfully made, the writing is imaginative and descriptive.  The story is filled with action and paced to keep the pages turning and the reader up later than planned.  I enjoyed the suspense and intrigue, as well as the romance.  My favorite elements were the characters.