By: Jennifer L. Armentrout Published By: Entangled Publishing Released : Available Now Details : Kindle, 178 Pages RATING: 4.5 BEAUTIFUL DAWSON & PROTECTIVE DAEMON STARS! The last thing Dawson Black expected was Bethany Williams. As a Luxen, an alien life form on Earth, human girls are…well, fun. But since the Luxen have to keep their true identities a secret, falling for one would be insane.
Dangerous. Tempting. Undeniable.
Bethany can’t deny the immediate connection between her and Dawson. And even though boys aren’t a complication she wants, she can’t stay away from him. Still, whenever they lock eyes, she’s drawn in.
Captivated. Lured. Loved.
Dawson is keeping a secret that will change her existence...and put her life in jeopardy. But even he can’t stop risking everything for one human girl. Or from a fate that is as unavoidable as love itself.
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle:
Tear my heart up and let the wind take it away.
Awwwww, LOVE Bethany and LOVE Dawson.
I just love reading anything with Jennifer’s name on it. I was lagging behind in the Lux series so I thought I had better get onto Shadows , Onyx and Opal before I crack open Obsession, then Origin.
Gahhh !! I was getting way behind, people in this series.
The minute Bethany Williams crossed Dawson’s path, he was not going to be looking at another girl ever again and he wasn’t going to be able to hide who he was for very long.
Dawson’s feet hit the floor with an audible thump. Holy crap, she was... she was beautiful. And he knew beautiful. Their race had won the genetic roulette when they adopted human forms, but the way this girl’s elfin features were pieced together was absolute perfection.
Holy crap on a cracker. He actually changed in front of her. There were no words.
“I love you, Dawson. I love who you are, what you are. And I don’t think love recognizes differences. It just is. And we really aren’t that different.”
Jennifer has such a great voice for YA. Love her humor and the dialogue.
“You’re always welcome to join in,” Daemon said with a smirk. “Although I doubt you’d enjoy it.”
Vaughn’s face flushed. “You have a smart mouth, Daemon.”
“Better than a dumb one,” Dawson replied. “At least, that’s what I like to say.”
A dry, bitter laugh came from his brother. And then what came next rhymed with suck and ended with duck.
This is the classic line, remembering I had read Obsidian first.
Then Ash twisted toward Daemon, her cheeks flushed. “I can’t believe you’re allowing him to do this. Next thing we know, you’ll be dating a human. Daemon busted out laughing. “Yeah, not going to happen.”
I read Obsidian first as Shadows was released after Obsidian. I really liked seeing Daemon in his protective family mode. He is just so frightened for his two family members.
I got more understanding of Daemon and his behaviour with Katy in Obsidian through this book. Watching what happens to his brother. Watching Dawson fall for a human.
I can see where Mr Cranky Pants gets his attitude from in Obsidian. I’m kinda glad I read Shadows after Obsidian even though it is the prequel novella.
I got more about DOD and felt how dangerous they could be to the Luxen and to a human.
I can’t help it, after reading Obsidian , I just had this feeling that this won’t be the last we see of Bethany and Dawson.
More so after reading Shadows and Daemon not being allowed to see the bodies. I mean why?
That stuck a red flag up for me.
Or is it me wishing?
Nah, I just have this gut feeling that DOD are capable of anything. After all Alien’s are living on a human’s planet, it can’t be that easy, surely?
There has to be something more to DOD.
Dee is still ever so sweet. Such a gorgeous character.
Andrew needs a stinky dead fish slap!
“I guess it’s a good thing, then. A relationship between us would never work.”
His eyes narrowed. “And why is that?”
“Because I’m allergic to assholes.”
I had held off reading Onyx because fellow bloggers told me to wait and read Onyx and Opal together. I feel nervous as to the why? Then I asked them about Opal once it was released and they were like GAHHHHHH!!!! about something, so I am like EEEEeeeEEEEeeee. I am so glad Origin is not far away.
Anyhoo I can't put it off any longer as I am getting way behind on Jennifer's works as she is pumping them out left right and center.
Origin is August 27th so I must keep reading as apparently I read Obsession ( adult genre from Lux world) after Opal, so I am ready for Origin.
I am picking Apollyon ( Covenant series) up from library tomorrow. Woot!!
A MUST read this novella as you meet such a gorgeous couple and get to see more of the inner workings of Daemon.
Today on Novels On The RunI have our tour stop for RUNES by Ednah Walters , my review and GIVEAWAYS. Check the trailer out too. WOOT!
Michelle
Runes by Ednah Walters
Publication date: May 20th 2013
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance Firetrail Publishing
Synopsis:
By:Ednah Walters Published By:Firetrail Publishing Released : Available Now Details: Digital , 245 Pages RATING : 3.5 TORIN STARS Blurb: Goodreads Seventeen-year-old Raine Cooper has enough on her plate dealing with her father’s disappearance, her mother’s erratic behavior and the possibility of her boyfriend relocating. The last thing she needs is Torin St. James—a mysterious new neighbor with a wicked smile and uncanny way of reading her. Raine is drawn to Torin’s dark sexiness against her better judgment, until he saves her life with weird marks and she realizes he is different. But by healing her, Torin changes something inside Raine. Now she can’t stop thinking about him. Half the time, she’s not sure whether to fall into his arms or run.
Scared, she sets out to find out what Torin is. But the closer she gets to the truth the more she uncovers something sinister about Torin. What Torin is goes back to an ancient mythology and Raine is somehow part of it. Not only is she and her friends in danger, she must choose a side, but the wrong choice will cost Raine her life.
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle:
This was a great start to Ednah’s new Runes series.
The first chapter, if I was to be honest, was very much like the first chapter of Obsidian by Jennifer L Armentrout.... but then, it changed.
I think this book has the influence of Lux series and The Mortal Instruments. Which is a good thing.
Eirik is Raine’s childhood friend, they are endeavouring to have a relationship that crosses over from just friends to boyfriend, but the new guy with the Harley across the street who just happens to be living in Eirik’s old home, shows up on her doorstep.
Raine seems to emotionally bounce between Eirik who she has wanted to like her, more than a friend.... to Torin. She gets her wish with Eirik , but is very unsettled with this wish, having Torin across the street.
Now I did have a little bit of trouble with that whole wanting Torin, I mean who wouldn’t the guy is absolutely stunning... and Eirik the boyfriend. I felt like Eirik and Cora were going to eventuate. I just got that vibe. There was a lot of lusting after Torin, but Raine has Eirik. But she likes Torin, but she has Eirik.
I love Eirik, he is a very sweet guy....but then you have Torin.
YOWZER!
I loved how Ednah keeps us guessing as to what Torin and co are. I had no idea, until all is revealed. I really enjoyed that aspect. It made the pages turn.
Ednah throws us off the sniffer trail with who the real villains of the story are, and I really enjoyed that.
As this is the first book in the series, there is more getting to know characters for the most part of the book and then it takes off with all these things happening, left, right and center.
I did guess where some things were heading, but what I loved was I didn’t guess the why.
That I enjoyed very much.
I thought maybe the story got rushed in certain parts and maybe not enough emphasis on something that I thought was pretty important in Raine’s life.
I really love hearing a guy have a pet name for the one he likes and I loved hearing Torin call Raine, ‘Freckles.’ It was sweet.
“If I marked you, Freckles, I’d be under your skin. You wouldn’t think of anything or anyone but me twenty- four-seven.”
Some great sub characters. Andris was one of those. I was kept guessing if he was somebody I should like or not like. Sometimes I didn’t, sometimes I thought he could be ok, but then....???
I will say, Ednah puts some great little twists into her first instalment, and of course, THAT ENDING!!!!
LOL!! I think a few people will be face planting with that endingJ
An enjoyable YA read that left me very intrigued to know more AFTER THAT ENDING!! J
EDNAH WALTERS grew up reading Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys and dreaming of one day writing her own stories. She is a stay-at-home mother of five humans and two American short-hair cats (one of which has ADHD) and a husband. When she is not writing, she’s at the gym doing Zumba or doing things with her family, reading, traveling or online chatting with fans.
Ednah is the author of The Guardian Legacy series, a YA fantasy series about children of the fallen angels, who fight demons and protect mankind. AWAKENED, the prequel was released by Pill Hill Press in September 2010 with rave reviews. BETRAYED, book one in the series was released by her new publisher Spencer Hill Press in June 2012 and HUNTED, the third installment, will be released April 2013. She’s working on the next book in the series, FORGOTTEN.
Ednah also writes New Adult paranormal romance. RUNES is the first book in her new series. She is presently working on book 2, IMMORTALS.
Under the pseudonym E. B. Walters, Ednah writes contemporary romance. SLOW BURN, the first contemporary romance with suspense, was released in April 2011. It is the first book in the Fitzgerald family series. Since then she has published four more books in this series. She's presently working on book six. You can visit her online at www.ednahwalters.com or www.ebwalters.com.
Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best. Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win. The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me. I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter. My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
RELEASE DATE JUNE 28th! Put this date on your calendars!
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle:
Branded is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated debut dystopian’s of 2013. It is a fearless page turner, and very enthusiastic with the darkness and brutality of a dystopian world.
Branded captured my attention within the first 10 pages, I knew I was in for a fast paced dystopian rollercoaster ride. You will feel a circle of ever changing emotions and genuine fear for some characters....and your heart will break.
I will admit I had a girlie cry.
These two debut authors know how to bring a dystopian filled with energy, grit, violence and heartache. They are fearless and relentless with what they put their characters through.
OMG!!!!
Seriously, the brutal scenes are written ...well, BRUTAL. Visually I was right there in the front row with my popcorn and M & M’s stuffing them in my mouth out of sheer fear.
I could not look away.
The Hole has a very apt title, it is a filthy place that devours people, no one escapes. The branded Sinners live day to day, death and disease around every corner, coming also in the form of gangs, for sport or for lust or greed.
Dog eat dog.
The Commander is in the background while his terrifying minion Wilson, and the guards of the Hole shoot first, ask questions later.
He struts in like a king, looking immaculate in his fresh-pressed, stiff uniform. His knee-high boots shine with a new coat of polish. He scans the room, resting his callous eyes on me. I blink away the smell of his heavy cologne and stand. “Wilson, what a pleasure.”
The Hole is very unforgiving.The inmates are brutal, violent and fresh meat is fought over.
Lexi Hamilton is fresh meat.
Nowhere is she safe.
Lexi Hamilton is guilty as charged, branded, all dignity taken from her. No such thing as innocent until proven guilty.
No judge. No jury. When they come for you, you run and hope you can escape. The chances are... you won’t. You will be sentenced to a life that could be short lived.
He thinks I’m so easily broken. The commander doesn’t know anything about me, what I grew up with, what I endured—the father I lost, the mother I hate, the brother who walked out of my life, and the stepfather I was forced to accept. He thinks since I was rich, making me poor will cause me to give up. What he doesn’t understand is that, after my father passed away, I grew up behind walls of hatred. I had nothing, but had everything at the same time. I owned expensive clothes, enjoyed good schooling, and lived in a nice home. But my body was just a shell protecting an empty, desperate heart. My life was a colorful facade.
But...Lexi is a fighter.
Cole is a guard in the Hole, assigned Lexi. He is 24/7 on her watch. His orders, to keep her safe.
Easier said than done. The Hole wants to take her. Cole is not like the other guards. You will love Cole. Cole has a heart underneath the mask.
Is he afraid he’ll hurt me? “You won’t break me if that’s what you’re worried about.” He walks over, places one arm around my back, and lifts me from under my legs so they dangle. I feel like a baby. I rest my head on his shoulder and smell his fresh cotton shirt. “After this, I’m not sure anyone could,” he whispers.
The sub characters are intriguing. I found myself pondering and throwing around theories. Will I be right?
Bruno and Alyssa are faves of mine. Bruno , loyal, trustworthy.... a friend when you need one.
Doc Sutton. He has a heart, but don’t cross him. Zeus, the Great Dane is both protector and a great licker. He can make you laugh and he can hope you never get on his bad side.
I had many favourite scenes. Some of them were violent. I am not a violent person, but a dystopian world is not a world that smiles easily. A dystopian world will always have an evil , power hungry villain with minions working against good, and death is a daily occurrence . Some of the scenes were...well, beautiful moments, heart breaking moments and moments where a glimmer of normality peeked through for Lexi.
This is a very well written book, with seeds dropped like bread crumbs for future installments.
I loved the twists and when I thought I was onto something, I was hit with a nice curveball ,didn't see that coming.
These two debut authors write seamlessly as though they are one. You can tell how connected they are to each other and the story they want to bring to the reader. They know what makes a good dystopian rock your face off. This is a kick ass dystopian with bite. The girls will kick their characters to the ground for them to rise and fight back. The girls have me rather intrigued about a character we get a glimpse of. I am excited to read Banished, Sinners # 2. Ooo yeah there's a scoop for ya. Bring. It. On!
I am gonna say, this is one of the BEST book trailers I have seen by Indie Authors. Regina Wamba Mae I Design and Photography made the trailer, the girls did the script for it and it is FREAKIN' A1.
This trailer just sells the book and story. I know cause I have read the book. I love the colours , the scenes chosen, and the words. The music gives it that movie trailer quality. A gritty trailer.
Well done Regina, amazing job, well done Abi & Missy for writing such a wonderful dystopian.
Ok here is the trailer.....drum rollllllllllll....
That was pretty darn powerful wasn't it.
GIVEAWAY TIME
5 Digital ARC's of BRANDED
INTERNATIONAL
Once the authors facebook page HERE exceeds 2000 likes.
I pick 5 winners with Random Org
So, pop on over and like their page.
Leave a comment down below stating:
The name you liked under and what number your like was.
Just look up at the top of their page and see how many likes they are currently at, then add 1 onto it, then like their page.
That is your number to show me in comments.
Leave your email address too.
If you are already liking their page, then say , 'Already a fan' in comments with the name you used.
Book Description:
Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
Abi Ketner Is a registered nurse with a passion for novels, the beaches of St. John, and her Philadelphia Phillies. A talented singer, Abi loves to go running and spend lots of time with her family. She currently resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband, triplet daughters and two very spoiled dogs.
Melissa Kalicicki received her bachelor’s degree from Millersville University in 2003. She married, had two boys and currently lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Aside from reading and writing, her interests include running and mixed martial arts. She also remains an avid Cleveland sports fan.
Abi and Missy met in the summer of 1999 at college orientation and have been best friends ever since. After college, they added jobs, husbands and kids to their lives, but they still found time for their friendship. Instead of hanging out on weekends, they went to dinner once a month and reviewed books. What started out as an enjoyable hobby has now become an incredible adventure.
Today on Novels On The Run I have a book blitz and giveaway for INSPIRE by Heather Buchine. Also check out the Inspire Playlist songs. This sounds a great NA Contemporary.
Michelle
Inspire by Heather Buchine
Publication date: March 31st 2013
Genre: NA Contemporary Romance
Synopsis:
18-year old Paige Rice, an exquisite beauty from East Hampton, NY, has just celebrated her high school graduation and is expecting to spend her summer living it up with all her socialite friends. But her parents have a different idea – she is being hauled away-literally- to the mountains of Vermont for the entire summer- in an RV!
Assuming she will be an outcast amongst the other teens at the campground still does not prepare her for the treatment she receives, which is far worse than she imagined. She also isn’t prepared for Travis, the campground owner’s son and the “Sexiest” guy she has ever laid eyes on. Travis is the only one who shows any interest in getting to know Paige. The only problem is that they have to explore what lies between them in secret. But once all the secrets are stripped away, the truth may be crushing.
***Intended for mature audiences due to language and sexual content***
By no surprise my favorite hobbies are reading and writing. But beyond escaping into the written fantasy world, I love experiencing new things. Surfing, motorcycle riding, snow blading, glass blowing, parasailing, SUP boarding are just a few that I have checked off my bucket list, but there is still so much more to explore. Right now, being a mom is my biggest adventure and the best by far!! In the quiet calm hours of the night though, I can usually be found typing away creating a world of romance where drama still exists but love (hopefully!!) always prevails.
one (1) ebook copy of Inspire. Open internationally ENTRY REQUIREMENT Leave Blog Comment Your email address File format : choose mobi, epub or pdf STARTS NOW ENDS 6TH JUNE 2013
Today on Novels On The RunI have our stop on the blog tour. I have an excerpt from Dexter's POV from Drowning In You by Rebecca Berto and a Giveaway to enter.
Drowning In You by Rebecca Berto
Publication date: April 12th 2013
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Synopsis:
Secretly crushing
Crushed by a tragedy
Charlee May’s been crushing on Dexter Hollingworth since she was fifteen. Five years later, a horrific skiing disaster at Mason’s Ski Lift Resort leaves her millionaire dad critically injured and her mom dead at the hands of Dexter operating the lifts. Charlee is suddenly the sole caretaker for her little brother while their world falls apart.
Dexter couldn’t be more different from Charlee. He’s tattooed, avoids exclusive relationships and his Dad has a fair share of illegal dealings. With Dexter’s reputation, almost everyone believes he planned the Mason’s skiing disaster.
And after all these years he’s still crushing on Charlee May, the girl who’s too good for him.
When this cruel twist of fate ties Charlee’s family and Dexter’s reputation together, Charlee and Dexter wonder if their feelings are reciprocated, while Dexter discovers his dad is trying to steal the May’s millionaire fortune.
But like an addiction, one look, one touch, one taste—they’re hooked no matter the consequences.
EXCERPT
Dexter
Mom’s still working at the hospital so my only choice is to walk. Twenty seconds into my escape, the first raindrop splatters on my eyelid. I shake it off and tip my head to the sky. Bloated, gray clouds hog the space above. I can’t remember it being blue in so long. This Melbourne winter isn’t much better than when I was a kid in Chicago. But we don’t even get snow here. It’s just freezing.
Freezing. The word escapes and I feel it. My bones are rattling. Looking down, I remember I put on my holey jeans and my black shirt with the rolled sleeves at my elbows. If I could do over my pitiful walk out of Dad’s and my argument, I would have grabbed my hoodie.
And that’s when everything gets fucked up. I give myself a handshake, tap my cheeks. Nope, I’m hot still. Not cold at all. Which means…I don’t want it to be true but—
I’m holding my fingers in front of my face. I stop at the corner of our street, a car vrooming past, another coming up, but I don’t hear them because it’s become quiet in my world. I feel my fingers trembling before I see them quiver and blur as my vision falters.
This is karma, I bet. I’m having a hypo attack ‘cause I’m diabetic, by which I’m essentially…what’s the word… What am I…?
My mind is looping already. It’s bad, I know. I was so wrung up arguing with Dad I didn’t notice it, but now I do. Trembling when his face came near had nothing to do with being scared.
I need sugar quick, like I do with every hypo. I pat my pockets down but I only feel my leg through the material, because, of course, I hate carrying my candy on me in case someone sees and asks what it is for.
Fuck my diabetes. I’m my own worst enemy. My body can’t even sustain itself. My blood sugar level is dropping, and it’s making my steps wobbly.
One of the cars approaching slows. Noises come from chatter inside. I refuse to look and give those shitheads the time of day since I know exactly what they’re looking for. But when I hear a snicker I start. I swear I know that voice. If I had to guess, I’d say it belongs to Robby. I haven’t seen him since before the Mason’s ski accident mess when he used to talk and hang with me in the group.
Lucky I decide to turn after all because an egg, followed by another, tumbles in the air in a direct line for me. I duck and they sail just over my hairline.
When another car slows, I’m ready to fucking lose it, even if it only backs up my new reputation as a killer. But my words are stumbling, smooshed, and not coming out of my mouth right thanks to my severely depleted blood-sugar level and the fact that my body’s in survival mode.
Then out of the window pops Darcy May’s head. I know that kid. He’s Charlee’s little bro.
Just my luck. That her mom was the only one to die at Mason’s. I’ve been wanting to kiss this girl since before I got my first tattoo, or my eyebrow ring. Before seeing her at the opposite end of the occasional party. All things considered, a rich, beautiful, kind-looking girl like Charlee would never bring home a guy like me. I’ve never spoken to her the way I want to. Why take the risk of getting rejected by the only girl I’ve ever really wanted? And even if she did want me, would she see me or me as the person as what I’ve done to her parents?
I know Charlee’s read the papers; she couldn’t have missed it.
Dexter Hollingworth was on shift as a lift operator when the overhead wires snapped on one of the lifts at Mason’s Ski Resort. No charges have been laid.
Charlee’s Audi hatchback stops beside me. Darcy pops his head back in and chucks a thumb at me then turns to whisper something to Charlee.
I take these rare moments when I still see her around to imagine her letting her blonde hair down and shaking it out across her face. About getting a hand into that hair and holding her to my chest with the other. I want to know what she smells like.
Rebecca Berto is the author or the dark contemporary/literary novella, PRECISE and the upcoming new adult contemporary romance novel, DROWNING IN YOU. She is also a freelance editor.
She writes stories that are a bit sexy, and straddle the line between Literary and Tear Your Heart Out. She gets a thrill when her readers are emotional reading her stories, and gets even more of a kick when they tell her so. She’s strangely imaginative, spends too much time on her computer, and is certifiably crazy when she works on her fiction.
Rebecca Berto lives in Melbourne, Australia with her boyfriend and their doggy.
Today I have the trailer reveal for Touching Melody by RaShelle Workman. Check it out! Throw this New Adult Contemporary on to your TBR pile. Sounds awesome.
Touching Melody by RaShelle Workman
Series: Forever First #1
Publication date: June 2013
Genre: New Adult Contemporary
Synopsis:
Maddie Martin's first weekend at college is nothing like she's used to. It's wild, like the wilderness on which the University of Bellam Springs sits. Roped into going to a frat party, she literally runs into Kyle Hadley. The boy she's loved since she was nine. The boy she promised all of her firsts to. But that was before his father killed her parents.
Determined to stay away from him, she throws herself into her music. Practicing piano eases her heavy heart, calms the sadness, and pushes away images of Kyle's face.
Until it doesn't.
Her music professor asks her to play a duet for their annual Graduation Gala. Doing so means she'll be assured another full ride scholarship. It's an opportunity she can't pass up.
But Kyle is the other half of the duet. And that means hours and hours of practicing.
Days and months of seclusion - just the two of them. And it's more than just music. It's passion like Maddie never believed was possible.
The inevitable happens. She falls in love with him all over again.
But, will loving him be enough to erase all the hate in her heart for his father? Can she look at him, and not see the evil in his family tree?
And maybe it's all a set up. Maybe Kyle is only pretending to care so he can finish what his father started, and kill her too.
RASHELLE WORKMAN lives on a mountain with her husband, three children, and three dogs. From her back porch she can see the city lights and imagine... She's the bestselling author of the Dead Roses series (Sleeping Roses is being translated into Turkish, and will be available in print wherever Turkish books are sold in 2014), the Immortal Essence series, and the Blood and Snow series.
Off the library trolley .30c purchases Obsession Untamed Succubus In The City Demon Bound The Undead Nextdoor Perfect Chemistry Blood Ties - Darke Academy Night Prince - Jeaniene Frost KGI # 6 - Maya Banks The Secret Of Ella and Micha - Jessica Sorensen Triangles - Kimberly Ann Miller Clockwork Princess - Cassandra Clare Full Of Grace - Misty Provencher HAPPY READING! Michelle
Today on Novels On The Run I have a book blitz for Trophy Husband by Lauren Blakely and a Giveaway. Check out the synopsis and the excerpt and throw it onto your TBR pile.
Michelle
Trophy Husband by Lauren Blakely
Publication date: May 21st 2013
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance (the author describes it as mid-20s Sex and the City vibe)
I could so fall in love with him. I could fall in love with him in a heartbeat. He brings his other hand to my waist, and pulls me in close. He’s seated on the bar stool, and I’m standing as I slide into the V between his legs, his firm thighs now on either side of me. The distance between us narrows, and the temperature rises. Like this, with him so close, I can tell how much he wants me. As much as I want him. I am turned on beyond belief, my skin is so hot, and my body is aching all over with the need to be touched, and he knows it. And just like that, the mood between us here at Circa Rose shifts. It’s no longer flirty, or chatty, or get to know you. We’re no longer a guy and girl confessing to crushes and likes. As he plays with the waistband of my skirt, his hand dipping inside, stroking the bare skin of my hips just above my panties, we are a man and a woman who want to get the hell out of here. The air between us electric, like the moments before a summer storm.
“We don’t need to shoot that promo anymore, do we?” he asks, and his voice is different now too. It’s smoky and low, and as he brings me in closer, I can tell he’s gone to the same place I’ve gone to. Desire. And then the hope that we can take this contact to another level.
“I was really hoping to see your fancy studio though,” I tease.
“It has a nice couch.”
“We could do a lot on a couch.”
“It’s ten blocks away.”
“That’s far,” I say, and I’m keenly aware of how my voice has become a ragged whisper. He has to know what I want right now. Him. His green eyes are dark, shadowed with lust and staring intensely into mine. He’s waiting for me to say more. “But I think I really want to see that couch.”
“Good, because I would really fucking love to make out with you properly right now.”
Lauren Blakely is an unabashed fan of clever jokes, toast, and good guys in novels. Like the heroine in CAUGHT UP IN US, she thinks life should be filled with movie kisses and coffee drinks. Lauren lives in California with her husband and children, and spends her days writing both true stories and make-believe ones.
Today I am rather excited, on Novels On The Run , I have my stop on the FULL OF GRACE blog tour. I have my review and a most awesome Q & A with Misty Provencher AND a couple of GIVEAWAYS.
So you are getting spoilt today!
Woot! So carry on reading , I know you are itching to see this lads face...or is that just me. I am still ogling his lovely shoulders.... anyhoo .... scroll on down and check out all the goodies and don't forget to pop over to all the other blogs on the tour.
By: Misty Provencher Published By : Misty Provencher Released : Available Now Details: Kindle, 186 Pages RATING : 5 BEAUTIFUL LANDON STARS! Blurb: Goodreads Running about 7 bananas strong on shots from Hale and Oscar Maree's wedding bar, what happened between Landon Grace and Sher Traifere was supposed to be a one time thing. A quickie on a romantic night. Sher wanted a fast evening of fireworks to remember on the dull horizon of her life; Landon wanted to get his mind off his psycho ex by feeling Sher's curves. By the end of the evening, a secret of Sher's complicates Landon's attempt to escape the girl's chainsaw giggle.
Some one-night-stands just can't be finished in one night.
Even more complicating, this one rises back up with a hard shot of morning sickness and an entire repertoire of questions. The most important being: how much pull does a guy really have in a woman's choice to pursue or terminate a pregnancy?
And in this case, how clever can he be about stealing her pants?
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle:
After falling for Oscar Maree in Hale Maree, I wondered how Misty was going to write Landon. Oscar is a beautiful , phwoaaaarrr!! smexi lad whose persistence won Hale over, not to mention his...........
Misty wrote a most gorgeous voice in Landon. The lad is this mix of humour, thinks outside the box, not afraid to accept responsibility.... and can he make your toes curl. I uber uber uber loved this book!
I laughed so much. Misty has this magnificent witty talent. I connected with Landon in Hale Maree, I knew I wanted to read his book and I knew I wanted him to hook up with Sher.
Sher is this loveable, total giggle pot. She has a most unique voice for a character. I loved hearing Landon’s inner monologue about Sher and her giggling. I loved her giggling. I could hear her giggles.... especially the chainsaw ones.
LOL!
“We’re going hobbit hunting,” Sher giggles, but it doesn’t derail Saul in the least.
How’ve you been?” I inquire lightly annnd...she giggles. Damn. It’s like a bucket of ice in my shorts.
I just came off of a quickie relationship with Amy-the-Psychopath, and now I’ve landed the Giggler, who might actually end up going Jack the Ripper on me.
A serious topic is the basis for Misty’s story about Landon and Sher and she handles it brilliantly.
I have not laughed so much one minute and then had my toes curl the next in a book.
I tug her earlobe into my mouth, or maybe it’s her lip... I don’t have a clue. It’s just soft and warm and makes me think of nipples.
“That’s fine,” I tell her. “But if you happen to be the one that gets thirsty first, I just want you to know, I’m not stingy with my milk at all.”
She reaches across me, brushing over my crotch, and the alarm in my jean-submarine instantly flashes: Semen! All hands on deck!
OMG!
I have some favourite scenes.
*waggles eyebrows *
Misty put the sizzle in Landon and Sher.
Misty really does have writing talent. She drew me in from the first page. I connected with Landon, and his inner monologue is brilliant fun and how he sees Sher and how he wants to give her what she thinks she will miss. He really is a stand up guy. He is honest with himself and with Sher with regards to the situation and that is all you can do.
I really love a guy like Landon. There is just something special about the way they see life and what it throws at them and how they handle it. He has such a talent for being creative in his endeavors to try to stop Sher making a big mistake in his eyes. I loved how much he cares. Give Sher a reason, give her a life. The things she wants to do though - horse riding, pole dancing, tattoos, sex with strangers - I’m not sure how okay I am with letting her have four whole episodes of ‘Sherr Gone Wild’. I’m sure as hell not going out to recruit a dude to do her on the beach.
A very clever story that even had me getting a bit teary.
Landon knows how to bring romance to the picnic ... his style of picnic. To have a guy in your life like Landon who truly puts the thinking cap on to make a girl feel special is something to see.
“You can stop trying to be my hero,” she says. “I don’t need one.”
“But I do,” I tell her, “and this was the address they gave me.”
Horses, pole dancing, tattoos, stranger sex on the beach. I try to keep my lip from hanging open.
“Okay,” I rub my hands together slowly. “I really didn’t see three of those things coming.”
The sub characters are very entertaining. I loved Sher's interesting family. Her mother Lisa, is quite a character that you can't help but like and her oompa loompa sized brothers and sisters are like rugrats on Red Bull.
Sher showed her ability to be a great mother and role model when the rugrats joined in the story. I loved having Oscar pop up with Hale. They are such great characters and I just loved hearing Oscar’s voice again.
I can see why Oscar and Landon are such good friends. They both won’t let the girl in their life run away without a fight. They love hard. I totally dig that you don't have to read Hale Maree first to read Landon and Sher's story, but I highly recommend that you read Hale Maree first , so you can meet Oscar and get your glimpse of Landon. He will make you want to read more.
This was a story that the doctor ordered. I needed a book to have something different in a contemporary.
This is a funny, witty, heart warming read with some theft and major giggle fits. Landon will show you why he can fall for a chainsaw giggler and you will be rooting for him to win Sher over. Misty delivers in true Misty style.
Michelle
Q & A with Misty
I would like to welcome Misty Provencher to Novels On The Run and thank her for answering my Q 's. Take it away , Misty.....
Misty: It’s an absolute honor, Michelle! I have some of my best giggles with you! Hehe it's the lingo.
Michelle: What 5 words describe Misty Provencher the AUTHOR?
Michelle: What song do you think best describes you and why?
Misty: Not a Pretty Girl by Ani DiFranco
Michelle:What song does your family think?
Misty: My son said, DARK SIDE by Kelly Clarkson, because he said I always tell him to try to understand people. My daughter said TRY, by Pink, because it sounds like what I always tell her. So, I guess my kids think of me in reference to what I’m always preaching at them.
Michelle: Have you got a book boyfriend, * whispers* you can tell me I won’t tell anyone. He can’t be from one of your own books. What do you love about him?
Misty:My very first book boyfriend was Michael, from Judy Blume’s Forever. I’ve come a long way, baby. Michelle: Do you have a particular author addiction, if so who is it and why?
Misty: My new one is Marissa Meyer. I picked up CINDER a while back and her writing absolutely totalled me. That girl is ah-maze-ing. Michelle: You have been invited to UtopYA in Nashville Tennessee, as a panelist. Congratulations! That is quite a wonderful thing to be invited to the panel. Friday 28th -Sunday 30th June 2013.
You are on three different panels with some awesome authors attending. How are you going with preparing for these panel topics? How is the excitement level you are feeling? I thought I would just show the panel topics you are on.
NEW KID ON THE BLOCK:
How to Navigate Cliques & Promote Your Book
MUSIC AS MUSE
REVIEW REHAB: HOW TO HANDLE GOOD AND BAD
Misty: I am off-the-tracks excited about going to UtopYA. I never expected to attend a conference so far from home, let alone be invited as a panelist. I’m beyond blown away by that!
I CAN NOT WAIT to meet the other authors I’ve befriended on line. It seems right since I’ve already taken so many of them to bed with me. Har har. And holy moley- the bloggers- I want to meet every single one of them and hug them til they turn blue. The bloggers are the reason people ever gave my books a chance and I owe them wicked big hugs!
I’m not really preparing for the panels- most are things I can speak to because I am a new kid, I do make music my book bitch and dang, I’ve learned how to handle the good (easy peasy) and the bad (boo hiss). My tactic is to go and just tell people what I’ve learned and hope they love me. J
Michelle: Is there any authors attending where you can feel some fan girling coming on, where you might get yourself an autograph.
Misty:Ella James. I’m gonna stalk her til she signs my forehead.
Michelle: Have you been to Nashville before? Have you got any touring plans whilst there?
Misty:I haven’t been to Nashville before, so I am very excited to be going! The one place I’d like to visit is Cooter’s Place because my son is obsessed with cars and would love some pics of the Dukes of Hazard memorabilia.
Michelle: Now for some musical questions as they are what I love asking. What song best describes :
Oscar and Hale’s love - Hale Maree - This book I LOVED!!!!!!!!!
Misty:Thank you so much, Michelle. I think their song would be: All In by Lifehouse
Just click the youtube title in bottom corner if you can't see the vid, it will take you straight to the song.
Michelle: Landon and Sher’s love - Full Of Grace - Companion to Hale Maree
OOo LOVE LOVE LOVE Landon!
Misty: Just Give Me A Reason by Pink and Nate Reuss (I don’t know why, but I listened to this over and over and over again)
Michelle: Garrett and Nalena’s love - Cornerstone YA Series
Misty: Building A Mystery by Sarah McLachlan
Michelle: What is your favourite quote as the author from :
Any Cornerstone book
Misty:The boy, with eyes as clean as Jesus, is asking about me.
Hale Maree
Misty:“I would notice you, Hale,” he continues, “if you walked into a room behind a 500 pound lion that was charging straight for me. I would notice you if the room were full of naked women, and I was in deep conversation about my own death. I will always come running, I’ll eat the dinner and wear the shirts and I’ve already thought that if you put on ten more pounds, it’d be a sure bet that I would never let you out of my bed. I’ve been trying to soak up every word you’ve said since the first time we spoke, so I think it’s only fair that you try just as hard to hear me now. I think you are perfect for me, Hale, and I’m just waiting for you to realize that I’m perfect for you too.”
Full of Grace
Misty: Horses, pole dancing, tattoos, stranger sex on the beach. I try to keep my lip from hanging open.
“Okay,” I rub my hands together slowly. “I really didn’t see three of those things coming.”
Michelle: What is an average day for Misty Provencher, from waking up to going to bed?
Misty:Hmmm, it varies, but a writing day looks like this: I get up around 5:30-6 am and check my email before packing everyone their lunches. (I know, wicked glamorous, right? Gotta keep the paparazzi from snagging pics of that, huh?) When everyone clears out, I usually make my phone calls or walk the dogs. By 9-10, I’m in front of my computer, writing. That goes on until around noon. I grab a bite, usually in front of the computer, and check in on the social media. I clean the house during breaks. I go strong until about 3, when the kids start filtering in from school. I’m all theirs until after dinner, when everyone scatters. Then, I might sit and write some more until I fall into bed to read for an hour before bed.
Michelle: What was the last book from any genre, that had you thinking it was the shiz, it rocked your kazbah?
Misty:I read Marissa Meyer’s Cinder and just about cried from how beautifully she writes. She is a master wordsmith.
Michelle: Have you ever people watched and found the makings of one of your characters, if so who?
Misty:I am a people-watcher-aholic. Iris, from Cornerstone, was very loosely modeled after the memory I had of a little girl I used to care for. She was a complete spitfire and I loved her dearly and I tried to capture her ‘spirit’ in Iris.
Michelle: If you could have dinner party with 4 people and shoot the breeze, alive or dead or fictional , it doesn’t matter. Who would they be and why?
Misty:Only four? I want to meet so many!
John Steinbeck, because he was wicked-funny and would love to talk craft. I eat that stuff with a spoon.
Beth Chapman (Dog the Bounty Hunter’s wife), because I adore so many facets of her spirit.
Cesar Milan (the Dog Whisperer) because I want to feel what his energy is like. Sound cooky? I also have a few questions about Larry that I’m positive he could clear up.
Michelle: If you could choose any ice cream flavour or a chocolate flavour, what flavour would best describe where your life is now? I’m drawing on Forrest Gump hereJ
Misty:Imagine Whirled Peace (Ben & Jerry’s). I had a long period of crazy stress and now my world has begun to settle, heal, and really get moving again. My whole world is moving toward peace- gotta love that! Michelle: Just throwing this one out there, have you any projects in the works you can tell me about * whispers * I won’t tell anyoneJJJ
Misty: Haha- yes- I’m working on CAPSTONE right now (the last in the Cornerstone Series). I have several in the works that need to be completed/revised, but this summer, I’ll be going easy, as I want to enjoy my kids while they’re home. I hope to have CAPSTONE out by this fall. Michelle: Thank you Misty for answering my Q’s. Have a whole pile of fun at UtopYA! Wish I was thereJ
Misty: Oh, if there was one person I could ‘wish’ to UtopYA, Michelle, it’d be you. I would love to meet you!! Thank you for having me over on the blog tour- I adore you!! Awww shucks. I would love to meet you too. We could check out Cooter's together...hehe xx
AUTHOR BIO Once a high school drop out and runaway, Misty Provencher became a college grad, and is now a full-time novelist with a close knit family. She doesn't do labels well. While she can ride a motorcycle, knows how to Karate chop, and has learned enough French, Spanish, and Sign Language to get herself slapped, Misty's life is the ruse she uses to connect with people. She is totally enchanted with them and spends her days trying to translate the soul bouquet of her muses into words. Misty Provencher lives in Michigan. Knock on her internet blog door at: Misty Provencher's Books, http://mistypro.blogspot.com/ or find her on Facebook and Twitter as Misty Provencher.
