Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read.” —Groucho Marx

Sunday, June 30, 2013

The New Crown by Jason Sandberg----Review for the Kiddies & Parents

Good Morning my lovelies!    My peeps are the best peeps around and I welcome you to partake of today's review of The New Crown by Jason Sandberg.   I'm a Grandma of three adolescent boys and one girl toddler who has this ole lady wrapped around her tiny little fingers.    So with Claire Bear in mind, we will begin our review.

Synopsis:

Julietta the Carpenter can build almost anything using wood, metal or fabric. Her skills are put to the test when she runs afoul of her corrupt King. This new fairy tale introduces a resourceful heroine to the boys and girls of today.

From Grandma's  Perspective:

I don't know if I am more impressed with Jason Sandberg as an author or an illustrator, but I sure envy him the talent to be able to do both!   Once again he has written and illustrated a charming tale about a kingdom contolled and ruled by an evil King.   Julietta is a very talented member of the kingdom and she of course is pure and good and like Mr. Sandberg, so talented in many ways.   She can craft with many mediums--fabric, metals, wood and she can give promising and hopeful advice to her fellow kingdom dwellers, which angers the king immensely.   This story shows the plight between goodness and evil, as well as providing hope for the young in dire circumstances.   You know the old adage, where there is a will, there is a way.   I also applaud the fact that it is an empowering tale for young girls everywhere!

Well done Mr. Sandberg....very well done!  I will definitely be sharing this with my young lady!  5 WINKS!

Author Info:


I'm a Fine Artist who also wants to produce the "missing books" from my childhood, the books I wished I'd had.







Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Dangerous Deception by Cindy McDonald/ a Review

Synopsis:

Vic Deveaux’s glory days as a winning jockey have ended, but he refuses to accept that pile of horse hockey! When the West family asks Vic to take an easier position at their Thoroughbred farm, Westwood, he becomes enraged and teams up with two greedy stable hands in a scheme to kidnap the youngest son, Shane. Things turn ugly when Vic discovers that his new-found friends have murder on their minds. Suddenly Vic finds himself between a rock and a hard place. He has betrayed his good friend, Eric West, but will he participate in his son’s murder as well? Not content to sit at home and wait for her men to bring her brother home, Kate West convinces homicide detective, Carl Lugowski, to check out a hunch at an old abandoned mansion. Soon they’re trapped in a hornet’s nest of a notorious biker gang. Oh yeah, Vic’s deception has placed the West family in more danger than they know what to do with!

Author Bio:

For twenty-six years my life whirled around a song and a dance: I was a professional dancer/choreographer for most of my adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. Don’t ask me what happened, but suddenly I felt drawn to my computer to write about things I have experienced (greatly exaggerated upon of course) with my husband’s Thoroughbreds and the happenings at the racetrack.
Surprised? Why didn’t I write about my experiences with dance? Eh, believe it or not life at the racetrack is more…racy. The drama is outrageous—not that dancers don’t know how to create drama, believe me, they do but race trackers just seem to get more down and dirty with it which makes great story telling—great fiction.

I didn’t start out writing books, The Unbridled Series started out as a TV drama, and the Hollywood readers loved the show. The problem was we just couldn’t sell it. So one of the readers said to me, “Cindy, don’t be stupid. Turn your scripts into a book series.” and so I did!

In May of 2011 I took the big leap and exchanged my dancin’ shoes for a lap top—I retired from dance. It was a scary proposition, I was terrified, but I had the full support of my husband, Saint Bill. It has been a huge change for me. I went from dancing hard five hours a night to sitting in front of a computer. I still work-out and I take my dog, Harvey, for a daily run. I have to or I’d be as big as a house. Do I miss dance? Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, but I love my books and I love sharing them with you.

Websites & Links:

www.cindymcwriter.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/THE-UNBRIDLED-SERIES/234151313271418
twitter: @cindymcdonald7
linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=69379662&trk=tab_pro
goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5264796.Cindy_McDonald

From My Perspective:

I don't think Cindy McDonald made an error in judgement when she gave up dancing and began writing books!  This was mystery/suspense at its best!   I enjoyed every moment while I read about the West family.

Characters were developed very well and the writing flowed seamlessly.   At first I was a bit bewildered by all the characters brought into play, but as I continued to read I saw why each and everyone was a necessary inclusion, especially since the story doesn't end with this book. There is more to come.    Sometimes life feels like a three ring circus and one day in the West's lives we see it is no different for them.  Cindy has to be familiar with a horse farm and how even the horse manure draws ones memories and lures them to the beautiful creatures.
And she wrote with a bit of humor too.   A stable hand had placed some snacks in a room and found them missing;  who was to blame?   Well, I chuckled deliciously at that part!   I read voraciously to see how it all turned out.    A very good read indeed!   4 winks


Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Samuel Odunsi Jr's book, Age of the Aura is free on Amazon June 24-28

 Hey there Peeps!    Are you in as much shock as I am that June 2013 is almost in the past?   Where does the time go?   Seems like it just evaporates and I am just not ready for the long dog days of summer to begin.

Author Samuel Odunsi Jr has  advised that his book, Age of the Aura, Phase 1:  Champions of Power will be free on Amazon from June 24-28,2013.   So if you are interested in Sci-Fi, fantasy reads, go on over to Amazon and get your free copy for Kindle.    I reviewed and blogged about this book in April and here is the link to that review:  http://bethartfromtheheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/age-of-aura-phase-1-champions-of-power.html
 Thanks Samuel for allowing my blog readers and friends to obtain a free copy!





Age of the Aura, Phase I: Champions of Power (SYNOPSIS)

Genre: Science Fiction (Space Opera)

The Blessed Galaxy has no other name. After being gifted with the Auras—five great powerhouses of celestial creation—the title was a suitable fit. For millennia, the governing bodies have ruled their respective reaches of the Galaxy while harnessing the might of the Auras. But now they face the threat of a calamity, from an unlikely source, that could shake the lives of all.

Lowen Sars, a devout man of science, decides to take on the burden of saving the Galaxy’s people once he learns of the calamity. But he soon realizes that the role of a hero was a calling not meant for him, even with his sudden promotion. In his process of self-discovery, Lowen begins the fateful saga of not only the Blessed Galaxy, but also the kingdom in possession of the corrupt Aura.
Read more behind the story! http://ageoftheaura.com/universe/





Download Phase I for FREE on Amazon! (June 24th-28th ONLY!) http://amzn.to/M8k1vf Enter to Win a Physical Copy of Phase I on GOODREADS!


Goodreads Book Giveaway

Champions of Power by Samuel Odunsi Jr.

Champions of Power

by Samuel Odunsi Jr.

Giveaway ends July 24, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win
Watch the Book Trailer!
Book Reviews for Phase I The Indie Book Review A Book So Fathomless - "3.5 out of 5"
Beth Art From the Heart - "4 out of 5"
Voracious Reader - "3 out of 5"
Sadie S Forsythe - "3 out of 5"
Nik's Picks - "4 out of 5"
Dee's Reads - "3 out of 5"
My Cozie Corner - "5 out of 5"
Confuzzled Books - "4 out of 5"
Cheryl's Book Nook - "4 out of 5"
The Guide to Good Books - "5 out of 5"
Paranormal Sisters - "3.5 out of 5"
Books With Leti Del Mar - "3 out of 5"


Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like. 

Monday, June 24, 2013

A Double the Pleasure review: Riversong and Riverbend by Tess Thaompson

Synopsis:

 Author Tess Thompson assembles a colorful cast of endearing small-town characters and takes you on a journey that will make you believe in the possibilities of life - even in the face of overwhelming adversity and unimaginable grief.

Lee Tucker is the kind of woman you find yourself rooting for long after the last page is read. When her husband commits suicide, he leaves her pregnant and one million dollars in debt to a loan shark. Out of options, she escapes to her deceased mother's dilapidated house located in a small Oregon town that, like her, is financially ruined, heartbroken and in desperate need of a fresh start. Lee's resilience leads to a plan for a destination restaurant named Riversong, to new chances for passion and love, and to danger from her dead husband's debt as her business blooms.

A surprising mix of romance, humor, friendship, intrigue and gourmet food, Riversong entertains while reminding you of life's greatest gifts.


From My Perspective: 

I totally immersed myself in reading Riversong and enjoyed it immensely.   I liked most of the characters and was drawn into Lee's world completely.   Maybe it was her childhood that gave her the inner strength and determination to press on toward being self sufficient and strong.   She certainly had no support from her alcoholic mother during her long and lonesome journey toward adulthood.   But returning to her hometown to restore and sell her mother's house was the best move she had ever made.   Discoveries of small and real joys awaited her there.   This character seemed so very real to me.   She was afraid to give herself to the town paragon of virtue, Tommy, but there was just enough physical attraction to be believable and yet not causing the reader head slaps wishing she'd just cave in and allow them the love they sought from one another.    Tommy's frustrations with her unshared "secret" were plausible and when he could no longer deal with the quandry of not knowing whether he would one day find her gone, he stood like a man and refused to let the relationship continue.   That showed his strength and self preservation skills.

I knew her secret would be found out and the consequences would have to be paid, but I was thrilled when her friends in a small town came together to help her find her way out of the darkness.   I liked the lessons the characters all learned about love, friendship, second chances, and life.   How often is it that we cave into the fear?   Only to look back and be amazed that we survived our most threatening issues in life?   My own  mantra in life, whatever doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger and I think that is why I could so relate to this novel.    A great women's read from Tess Thompson and I rate it a 4 WINK read.

Synopsis:


Just as Annie Bell’s reputation as one of the best chefs in the Pacific Northwest grows to new heights, she receives a threatening phone call from her abusive ex-boyfriend. Marco is out on parole and hungry for revenge, blaming her for his ten-year imprisonment. Fearing for her life and that of her young son, Annie reluctantly accepts help from Drake Webber, a cold and wealthy recluse hiding a dark history of his own. Supported by the gang of misfits from their restaurant Riversong, Annie forges ahead despite her growing terror that Marco will appear at any moment and make good on his threats.

Author Tess Thompson reunites the colorful cast of endearing small-town characters from her bestselling novel Riversong and takes you on a journey that will renew your faith in love, friendship and the power of community – even in the face of seemingly insurmountable grief and fear. You’ll find yourself once again cheering for the residents of River Valley, especially the big-hearted and compassionate Annie Bell.

Escape with a blend of love, laughter, friendship, suspense and gourmet food while remembering it’s never too late for second chances.


From My Perspective:

Annie's story was every bit as interesting and romantic as Lee's story was.  The one thing I noted is no one is perfect; everyone has a past, burdens and baggage and a reaction to it....be it strengthening or weakening.  Annie had run to River Valley to escape her abusive boyfriend and when he let's her know that he knows where she is and is coming for her, seeking revenge, she lives in fear and just might die in fear as well.   But Marco, the ex boyfriend, just doesn't quite grasp what he might be up against.    Drake Webber, self imposed recluse, offers her a hideaway in his home, although he can not be touched or questioned about his sad history.   Thank God for children; Annie's ten year old son, Alder, can ask the questions man to man, that an adult could never get away with.

Once again, Tess Thompson writes a heartfelt romantic novel which will appeal to women everywhere.   There is a generous amount of love as secrets from the past are shared and as the town prepares to take care of its own.   There is a little piece of magic, a lot of action/suspense and a great storyline to follow.  I give Riverbend a 4 WINK rating, just like Riversong and look forward to her next book in the series, due out in August, Riverstar.  If you read this series, come back and comment about your thoughts and definitely contact Tess through Good Reads.   She knows how to make you love her characters!




  About Tess Thompson:

      Tess Thompson is a novelist and playwright. She has a BFA in Drama from the University of Southern California.

After some success as a playwright she decided to write a novel, a dream she’d held since childhood. She began working on her first novel, Riversong while her second daughter was eight months old, writing during naptimes and weekends. She considers it a small miracle and the good-nature of her second child (read: a good napper) that it was ever finished. Riversong was released in April 2011 by Booktrope, a Seattle publisher and subsequently became a #1 Nook book and Kindle best seller. Learn more about Booktrope at www.booktrope.com

Like her main character in Riversong, Tess is from a small town in Southern Oregon. She currently lives in Snoqualmie, Washington with her two small daughters where she is inspired daily by the view of the Cascade Mountains from her home office window.

She was an active member of the theatre community in Seattle as an actor and director during the late nineties. In 2000 she wrote her first full-length play, My Lady’s Hand which subsequently won the 2001 first place prize for new work at the Burien Theatre.

A voracious reader, Tess’s favorite thing to do is to curl up on a rainy afternoon and read a novel. She also enjoys movies, theatre, wine and food. She is fed emotionally by her friends and family and cherishes relationships above all else.

Tess will be releasing her second novel, Caramel and Magnolias, in February 2013. She is busy working a historical fiction set in 1930’s Alabama that is based on a short story of her great-great grandmother’s.


Synopsis, Author info and picture are from GoodReads.                                          


Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Friday, June 21, 2013

The Prophecy by Desiree Deorto/SG VBTOUR REVIEW

Meet Author Desiree Deorto:

Desiree DeOrto is the mother of four children who she calls her evil monkeys. When she's not being terrorized by her children, she escapes into her realms of fantasy within the pages of her books.


She lives in
Southern Indiana with her children and boyfriend of 7 years.

 




Synopsis:

 The people of Shiloh Virginia thought it was just a story. A legend to keep children from misbehaving. A challenge to prove you have courage. What they didn't know was that it was real. All of it was real.

When Starlette McKinley moved from the sparkling lights of LA to the sleepy town of Shiloh, she didn't know that she would be the catalyst. She didn't know that the rage and energy pulsing through her would be the key to unleashing an unsurmountable power that would either be the saving of mankind, or its destruction.

The blood will run, and the prophecy will be revealed. But will she be able to overcome the insurmountable odds? Or will she succumb to the energy within, welcoming the darkness that has become her only friend.


From My Perspective: 

First of all, let me say:   Cover Love!   An absolutely beautiful cover,  Don't you agree?
Second, The Prophecy is a Young Adult/Paranormal read and it reads fast if you stick with it.
Third, I'm rating this a 4 Wink Read.  Bear in mind I was reading an ARC so hopefully the few errors I found have been worked out....those errors included use of we're for were and some confusion when the first person narrator referred to her self as she or her when in first person, she should be an I or my.   But like I say, these flaws were minimal and distracted minimally.

Did I like the book?   You bet I did.   This author has a lot of potential in my humble opinion.    She captured the angst of a young person who had been kept in the dark about her true identity....not who she was, but what she was.   Her father may not have known what she was, but the mother was in tune with the past history and instead of sharing the knowledge with her off spring, she sent her to therapy sessions?  Instead of educating her daughter about upcoming events, she made her feel belittled and definitely misunderstood.
Who wouldn't feel angered in the same situation?  Sometimes it is easier for  self preservation to remain aloof and not connect to our peers at all.

I feel like we got to know Starlette McKinley up front and personal.   We got to know her coworkers Rosemary and Brandon as well as the school jock,  Gabe.   I felt like we didn't get a clear view of the character , Andrei and what his purpose was.   I like the storyline, but found book one to merely be the set up for things yet to come.  But I am baited and I definitely want to know the rest of the story, so Desiree, when will part two of the Divinity Stone Series be available?   I for one am looking very much to getting my hands and eyes on it!





Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Mystery Falls by Marilyn Phillips/ a Review

 Meet Marilyn Phillips:

Marilyn lives on the outskirts of Melbourne (Australia) with her wonderfully supportive husband and two beautiful children. When not writing, she likes spending time with her family, taking long walks in dark forests and reading (anything involving paranormal romance / urban fantasy). Her favorite authors include Becca Fitzpatrick, Stephenie Meyer,Claudia Gray and Amanda Hocking. Mystery Falls is her debut novel and the first in a series.

Links:


Book Blurb:

Secrets. Lies. Deception. For the past six years, Samantha Hunt has lived with the belief that the untimely death of her parents was the result of an unfortunate accident—that by the cruel hand of fate, she had been left an orphan. But it was a lie, a terrible lie told to her by those who wanted to keep her in the dark. And the truth... when revealed, will change her life and haunt her forever.

Suddenly plagued by a series of events which find her in danger and in need of a savior, Samantha is repeatedly rescued by the mysterious and elusive Shadow—a stranger who seems to know more about her past and the tragedy which befell her family, than she does. Drawn to him despite the antagonism she feels whenever in his presence, Samantha soon discovers that Shadow is not what he appears to be. Determined to learn his true identity and why he has come to Mystery Falls, the small town in which she has spent all of her seventeen years, Samantha not only uncovers the secrets he refuses to share, but also the truth about her own past. A truth which forces her to acknowledge that things are not always as they seem, and sometimes, not even those close to you can be trusted. 

Resolved to seeking justice for the unwarranted death of her parents, Samantha embarks on a journey which brings her perilously close to her own demise. Can Shadow use his angel powers to save her yet again, or this time, will he be too late.

From My Perspective:

Oh, be still my beating heart!   This is another book I failed to read and review due to illness back in December/January.   I finally finished it this afternoon...a one day read, because I. Could. Not.Pry. My. Eyes. From. The. Screen.   This was definitely a paranormal romance, well written, romantic, and definitely swoon worthy!!!    Even at my age, I swooned like a teenie bopper!   Now stop it, I'm not dead yet!

Anyway, the main character, Samantha, is a typical teen, with a truly sad past.   She definitely had a mind of her own  and spoke her mind without hesitation.   Shadow, the Avenging Angel, had become infatuated with Samantha and tried to warn her away from himself, but there was a powerful and supernatural attraction that seemed to be Fate pulling them together.   I could feel that power as I read and enjoyed the storyline from start to finish.     WHERE IS THE SECOND BOOK?   I gave this read a 5 WINK rating.....thank you Marilyn.   I loved it! 


Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Friday, June 14, 2013

Dancing With Death by Andrea Heltsley--My REVIEW

Meet Andrea Heltsley:


 I’m a biologist turned writer.  I write YA/NA paranormal romance books mainly.  I’m the author of Devour and have several more books scheduled to come out later in 2013. I book blog for fun.  I also have a strong addiction to caffeine and fruit snacks.  You can find me in Tennessee with my husband and two Italian greyhounds.
If you ask anyone, I’m a total fangirl!  I love the entertainment industry.  I love Revenge and the Vampire Diaries on television.  My favorite movies are Elektra and P.S. I Love You.  I have a definite weakness for Tim Burton movies too. I’m beyond a huge fangirl for Shakira, both her English and Spanish music; Jack’s Mannequin comes in a close second.   I have too many favorite authors to list, but Kelley Armstrong and Rachel Vincent are two of them.  I’ve read all their books.

 

Synopsis:

 

 
Death is coming and he’s coming for me.

Murders have plagued the woods in the past, making them a place of fear. Eighteen year old Wendy and her friends become worried when a new string of murders come to their high school.

 

 

After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. Suddenly she is the center of attention, paying more attention to guys and clothes. Things are heating up for Wendy with more than one guy vying for her affections.

 

 

As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.

From My Perspective: 

 

I was quite surprised by Dancing With Death.   I don't know if I was just unprepared for what was in store or whether I was shocked to find out I was reading about a succubus and a demon hunter.   Even though I have read some YA reads in the last couple of years, I had not read about succubi.

Wendy and her friend Halle are typical high school girls.   They share gossip, they like boys, although Halle is a more experienced girl than Wendi....until Wendi is injured in a car accident.   This accident spurs her into a young-life crisis where all the boys at school start to notice her and the sexy way she dresses.    After the accident she is a hot number in the halls and her hormones have been released....She is attracted to the new boy in school as well as the new librarian.   She continues to have nightmares and feels that someone is watching her.

The writing is ok except I was bothered by the constant description  of clothes selections.  I felt like I was reading a fashion magazine and the amount the girls spent on clothes and accessories was a bit beyond what normal teens would spend, or maybe I am out of touch with that, way out of touch.   I also didn't like the instant love between Wendy and the new boy from California and also between the librarian and Wendi...risky, risky!

Other than two things referenced above...it was an enjoyable read.   I enjoy how Andrea spins her stories, how her characters support each other even in the worst of times.  The fact that Wendy turned out to be not quite human, didn't bother me and I enjoyed learning about what a succubus does and how they change after reaching age 18.   Interesting concept.

I rate this a 3 Wink read!  And I am sure paranormal YA fans will love it!






Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Fate Fixed/Blood Twist by Bonnie Wheeler/ 2 Reviews for the price of one!!

Meet Bonnie Erina Wheeler:


Bonnie Erina Wheeler is a lifelong resident of New England and a University of Connecticut student.

Having grown up in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, Bonnie discovered her love of writing early on, but did not begin writing novels until May 2011. As the daughter of author, Glen William Ruane, storytelling and world building is a family affair. Bonnie’s daughter, Miranda E. L. Wheeler and son, Robert D. Wheeler, share in the family’s passion and have both published in the last twelve months.

When not in class or working on her next novel, Bonnie enjoys spending time with her husband, Jerry. Together the two have been writing their own special love story since marrying in April of 1995. Their children Miranda, Justin, and Bobby give them great joy. Their family is made complete with the addition of Petey, a Spanish water dog, they adopted from their local pound.

Bonnie’s plans for the future include writing more novels in the Erris Coven Series, as well as, writing several contemporary young adult novels that have been in development for some time.

 


 Synopsis for Fate Fixed:


When Lexie Anderson’s mother suddenly announces she is marrying a Romanian immigrant, Lexie willingly leaves behind her busy life in Connecticut for her penance in “The Moose Capital of the World.” Small town living is strange enough, now Lexie must cope with her overbearing stepfamily monitoring her every move. They disappear into the woods at night and keep a strange secret locked in their shed. Her once calm mother is now having violent outbursts and Lexie’s little sister is hearing sinister sounds coming from the forest behind their new home. Lexie’s biggest surprise comes when she discovers the boy she has been dreaming about since her accident is living in Maine. Despite Torin’s questionable reputation, Lexie cannot resist the physical and emotional attraction pulsating between them. Animals and people in town are turning up dead and Lexie learns the strange new world she lives in has real life monsters. Just when she decides she wants to be with Torin forever, she must fight to protect her mother and sister from being harmed by a formidable evil.

From My Perspective:
I am not a paranormal junkie.   I don't like the idea of vampires or werewolves.    BUT, I try to be a diverse reader and I try to be open minded.   Young people seem to love, no absorb with love, the paranormal and I have grandsons who enjoy zombies and the paranormal in video games more so than books.  So how does a Grandma relate?

I was supposed to read Fate Fixed and Blood Twist months ago for a blog tour  but I was sick at the time so the reading stopped and the review for Ms Wheeler's books didn't get posted.   Wish I had felt up to it at the time, because I really did enjoy Fate Fixed!   The story was captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat.    How romantic is it that the protagonists dreamed of one another for several months?   Be still my beating heart!!   That in itself was breath taking!   And when young Lexie's mother remarried, all kinds of unexpected changes occurred.   The Family moved, Lexi not only had her sister Ella, she now had 3 stepbrothers, and the man of her dreams was Real!!   Adventure and suspense was abundant right up to the very end and if I told you more, I'd surely have to hurt you.

Ms Wheeler knows how to capture your attention and hang on to it with her writing skills and I am now looking way forward to reading her second book in the Erris Coven Series, Blood Twist.  4 WINKS peeps!  It's more than just good!

Synopsis for Blood Twist:


From Bonnie Erina Wheeler, the author who brought you Fate Fixed, comes the second installment in the Erris Coven Series, Blood Twist.


Find out what happens to the Erris Coven when Lexie's BFF Liz comes to town.

Braden Murphy knew he was going to die. There was a twist to his family secret – one that was forced upon him from the time he was a child. For years he envisioned his final days and tried to be strong enough to leave his family. Now that it was time, he was ready to make good on a deadly promise. Except for one unexpected glitch, a raven haired beauty insisted on joining him.

Liz Sanders thought her best friend’s stepfamily was weird, but she never would have guessed they were werewolves. Now Liz must travel with a secretive half-vampire in search of a lycanthropy cure. Landing in a nest full of blood thirsty vampires wasn’t on the agenda, but neither was falling in love.

Braden is tempting, but Liz’s feelings for him are complicated. She wishes he would open up about his past and give her a reason to trust him.


Just when Liz thinks she can let her guard down, she’s forced to confront the evil that has been stalking Braden’s past for years. Death is here and ready to destroy everything they've fought to save. 


From My Perspective:

I knew I would be getting to bed late tonight as I wanted to read and finish book two of the series, (Erris Coven Series).  Blood Twist picks up right where Fate Fixed left off.   Lexie's BFF from Connecticut has arrived to help Lexie out and insists on traveling with handsome Braden Murphy to Ireland to receive the cure for lycanthropy for Lexi's infected mother.   To Liz's surprise, they end up in Vancouver Canada????

While there, Braden confronts Riley, his older brother.   Riley had turned, as do all half-vampires, but he crossed to the dark side when he was unable to stop himself from drinking human blood.  He longed to be accepted by his family and so he called for Braden to meet with him.    Braden had expected to die with this meeting, but after traveling with Liz a fierce attraction developed between the two of them and Braden had to make her leave, so he could fight to the death if need be and not be worried about her safety.   But Liz had other ideas.....

Again we had a lot of action adventure and a charming romance when we read Blood Twist; and many surprises .   Just who was this Death character and what were his motives?    You'll have to read it for yourself to find out,    I enjoyed Blood Twist, but also found myself mildly distracted by several spelling errors: 
our for hour, their when there is the correct version etc.    Bear in mind I was reading an ARC copy, so hopefully someone proofed for final edits.

Based on the fast pace of the book and the story that was told, I still rate this a 
4 wink read.   I found it very enjoyable.





Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author or the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, June 10, 2013

The Halo Effect by Shauna Allen--My Review





 Synopsis from GoodReads:

He’s gotta earn his wings…again.

Love Detail’s favorite angel has his sights set on his next target: the stoic and mysterious Noble Blackfeather. And it just may prove to be his toughest case yet. Noble’s reclusive ways keep his angel at wing’s distance, and love even further. But he’s not playing a part – he’s truly masking a painful secret and a profoundly wounded
heart.

A cupid’s worst nightmare.

Noble’s been paired with Braelyn Campbell, the cute single mother next door. She’s adorable, friendly, fun…everything Noble needs. This should be a Love Squad slam dunk. Except she’s making a fresh start in Texas to protect her son from a volatile ex, and she’s not about to risk her heart or her son on another man. Even if he’s sexy as sin and always coming to her rescue.

Thank God for possibilities.



But, reluctantly, they are drawn together – thanks to their cupid’s dogged efforts and a whole lotta chemistry. Can the girl next door learn to trust again and help heal Noble’s wounded heart? Together, can they save the lost, hurting boy she's raising? Can the angels help it happen before it's too late?

Thank God for love.


From My Perspective:

I loved Shauna's first book in this series, Inked by An Angel.   It was sweet, sassy,full of romance and a struggle for the lovebirds to get it together with a unique setting....a tattoo parlor of all things!    Well let me tell you Shauna is no slouch.   I thought book # 2, The Halo Effect was even better than the first!   She nailed this difficult come to fruition love story with heartfelt depth and wisdom.    Those angels of hers were doin' a lot of prayin for guidance.

This time Braelyn Campbell has moved her 14 year old son to Texas to get away from his father's influence and her ex boyfriends threats of harming her son, Tristan.   She is making it on her own.   She works as a special ed teacher and volunteers at a retirement home.    She is strong and her own person and she is ready to meet a real man, although she claims she doesn't need one.

Noble Blackfeather lives next door and he is hot and available, although he doesn't think so.   He has built many walls, not allowing anyone but his best friend Jed into his life.    Even those he works with, Michael and Ariel, have not gotten but a toe in the door.

Let me just say, Michael had to work hard to get these two together.  Once I started the read I was in it to the end...stayed up all night and was busy the next day with no regrets for the lack of sleep.   In a nutshell, this book was an awesome romance and I am so thankful I got to read it.   It is just awesome to be a part of a new blossoming author's beginnings.  Great job Shauna!!

Shauna's third book in the Cupid Chronicles, Wounded Wings will be out this winter....I for one, can not wait!

5 WINKS!!!
 

 

Shauna grew up an only child with two open and loving parents in Central Texas.  She’s married to her high school sweetheart and is the mother to three fantastic (no, that’s not a typo!) teenagers. 
When she’s not writing, editing, or acting as a personal assistant to a NYT Bestselling author, Shauna enjoys reading, movies with Gerard Butler, vacays to the beach, and hangin’ with the kiddos–even if they don’t like hangin’ with her!
Shauna would love for you to visit her at her website and blog at: www.shaunaallen.com


Disclaimer:  I read for my pleasure.   I may receive ARC copies for review purposes, but I am not compensated for my reviews .  I like to read and I like to share my reviews.   I post my thoughts without prejudice or bias.  The words are mine and I write reviews based on my humble opinion.  I will admit, I seldom meet a book I don't like.  I received a complimentary copy from the author’s representatives in exchange for an honest review.