NEW SLEEPERS COVER REVEAL!!!!!

Introducing the new artwork for Megg Jensen’s bestselling novel SLEEPERS!!!!

To celebrate the re-launch of SLEEPERS in January of 2012, Megg is giving it a new cover with artwork from the incredible PhatPuppy.

Synopsis:

An adoptee raised in a foreign land, sixteen-year-old Lianne was content with her life as handmaiden to the queen, until a spell cast on her at birth activated. Now she's filled with uncontrollable rage and access to magic she thought had been bled from her people years ago. Even her years of secret training in elite hand-to-hand combat and meditation can’t calm the fires raging inside her.

Her heart is torn between two boys, the one she’s always loved and the one who always ignored her. But when the kingdom threatens to tear itself apart due to rumors surrounding the queen’s alleged affair, who will Lianne protect and who will she destroy?

On sale now for only 99 cents!


Review:

I truly enjoyed the first two books I have read by Megg Jensen; Anathema and Oubliette, but Sleepers really takes the cake for me. I definitely give it five stars because once I began reading it I couldn't put it down. Unfortunately, I have strained my eyes and given myself a head ache but it was well worth it. Sleepers features this amazing character named Lianne going through changes that all teenagers go through, but she also begins to change in ways that normal human beings do not. She was adopted by a family who never showed her love and became a maid for a queen who shows her nothing but love and friendship. She finds love along the way with a boy she thought she has been in love with most of her life only to be swept away by the surprisingly intense feelings she gets when she is with a different boy. This book gave me chills, made me fall in love, and made me sad all at the same time. Jensen really shines through in this novel and the way she describes certain situations really made me feel like I was experiencing all of the things Lianne is experiencing. It was so easy to picture the scenes of this book playing out, and sometimes I could even feel the grass, smell the flowers, and hear the baby's soft coos. I will recommend this book to anyone and everyone and I will be anxiously awaiting for the second book to follow.

~ Amy

Also, here are some reviews from Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11815829-sleepers

Review: Stay Tuned by Lauren Clark

SUMMARY: What happens when a #1 news team becomes the top story instead of reporting it?

For TV producer Melissa Moore, crisis management comes with the job. From employee disputes to her high-maintenance boss, there’s not much she hasn’t seen or can’t handle.

But no one—including Melissa—expects a fistfight during the ten o’clock news. When sexy-but-crazy Alyssa Andrews lands a punch on her co-anchor’s face, Melissa jumps on set to help. She’s determined that WSGA’s reputation won’t be destroyed on her watch.

Both anchors are fired and Melissa agrees to fill in—but not before polishing her look from haircut to heels. While the new Melissa wows WSGA viewers, her personal life starts fraying at the edges. Melissa’s husband is away more than he’s home, leaving cryptic Post-it notes in his wake. Her mother’s antics spiral out of control at the nursing home and a stalker decides Melissa is her next target.

What happens next? Stay Tuned to find out…

REVIEW: This isn't a book that I would normally pick up and read, but I'm so glad I did. I really liked this book, and found it very entertaining. The story was very creative, and easy to follow despite a lot going on at once. I was able to picture in my mind everything that was written, and I think this author did a great job writing. I think the part I loved most of all was being able to connect to the main character Melissa. I felt her emotions as I read, and she was such a real character. I admired how with all the chaos going on her life, she still was able to center herself and handle everything. Stay Tuned is full of love, excitement, jealousy, sadness and more...all combined to make a thrilling read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

♥ Shelby

GUEST AUTHOR BLOG by Megg Jensen

Welcome Everyone! Today we are featuring an AMAZING author on our blog. MEGG JENSEN!!! She is a fantastic writer, and a wonderful, down to earth person. I am honored to have her leave us a guest post. So...a note from Megg:


A few months ago, I asked everyone for ideas for vlog topics. My friend, April, (www.sugarsock.com) wanted me to talk about my office. Everyone always wants to know what my office looks like. I don’t blame them. It’s gorgeous. Exactly what you’d think a writer’s office should be.

I have a private space, all my own, paneled in dark wood. A huge bay window with the most comfortable window seat ever flanks the southern wall. Beautiful, dappled sunlight streams through the windows all day - never too hot or too cold. My desk is an old, antique desk similar to the one Ernest Hemingway wrote on. I bought it at an antique fair a few years ago. It took four strong men to carry it into my house, but it was so worth it because the desk is perfect. Two walls are covered in bookcases. The ceilings are fifteen feet high, so I have a ladder attached to the bookcases. It rolls around the room, so whenever I need a tome I just wheel my ladder to the right section. There’s only one glassed-in section. It houses my extensive collection of signed first editions.

The room is soundproof too, which is great because when I want to work while the nanny watches my children, I’m not disturbed. The office is also wired for complete surround sound. I can drown in music while I work. The floor is covered in hardwood with radiant heating so my feet never go cold while I’m working.

Wow, it’s getting really deep in here, isn’t it? LOL! None of that is true, but wouldn’t it be great if it was?

Here’s what my office is really like. We have a loft on the second floor of our house. It has an old, ratty futon that I sleep on when my husband snores too much. I have two Pier One bookcases and a writing table I got at World Market. I sit on an office chair that is possibly nine hundred years old and is super-uncomfortable. My table is covered in tons of stuff that really doesn’t need to be there. Boxes are scattered around the room, filled with copies of my books. There’s no privacy, no door, and no bay window. There is one window, though, which is nice. Oh, no nanny either. My kids frequently run screaming through the loft and right now I can see four stuffed animals, a crumpled up swimsuit, and a tiny rocking chair.

You might notice at the beginning that I said this was an idea for a vlog. I couldn’t figure out a way to maneuver my computer around the room while keeping it steady. If I had done that, the video would have been so shaky that everyone would probably have thrown up from motion sickness. Consider yourself lucky.

I think most writers, unless they’re super-famous or child-free, find space wherever they can. Someday I’d love to have the office I described. I’ll keep writing and dreaming!

Megg has just released her third book in the cloud prophet trilogy!!

SUMMARY: Reychel knows her gift of prophecy will lead to madness and now she is at her most vulnerable. The enemy army will attempt to sever her from everything she's ever known: her homeland, her friends, Mark, and her gift. Even at her weakest, she refuses to give up on her desire to end the war between the Malborn and the Serenians. Reychel would do anything, even come back from the dead, to conquer the enemy and reunite with Mark.

REVIEW: NO! NO! NO! It can't be over! I loved this trilogy...no seriously...I. LOVED. THIS. TRILOGY. I never wanted this book to end. I can't wait to read them all over again. I loved the world that Megg created in these books. And it ended just as wonderful. These books are filled with love, excitement, compassion, humor, and friendships. The characters are amazing. None are alike, but they combine to form a great family. If you couldn't tell....I LOVED THE CLOUD PROPHET TRILOGY!!! I hope anyone reading this will take my advice and go read these books!!! Anathema ( BOOK 1) is free RIGHT NOW on Kindle, Smashwords, and the ibookstore. Please go now and check it out!!!!

Also, stop by Megg Jensen's blog where you can find out what's next for Megg, and how to purchase her books. Thanks again Megg for stopping by!!! We can't wait to see what's next from you!!!

♥ Shelby

Review: There Your Heart Will Be Also by Felicia Rogers

SUMMARY: Only daughter of an English lord, Sarra of Greenbriar, is used to getting her way. So when her father passes and the King begins sending suitors, she feels justified in taking matters into her own hands. Through a series of harmless pranks, Sarra works to keep the potential husbands at bay.

Cedric MacNeil is a Scotsman that has lost it all. Death claimed his parents and jealousy claimed his entitled position as Laird of his clan. Since his mother was a familiar of the English court, he leaves his native land and heads to England to fight on behalf of the English King. Tournaments are won, earning honor and glory for the crown. Cedric’s reward is the opportunity to gain what he wants most in this life, land.

But as he gets to know Sarra, he realizes he might get more than he bargained for.

REVIEW: I'm am back again with another review for Felicia Rogers!! If you want  great, feel good books, then she is the author for you! There Your Heart Will Be Also is wonderful. I loved the story, especially since its during the medieval period, and thought it was very creative. Sarra, the mistress of Greenbriar, is a strong willed woman who wants a man to love her and not her land. So her and the staff devise a plan to scare off any suitors sent by the King for her land and her hand in marriage. This part of the story is quite humorous. Then along comes Cedric, who is the latest of men sent by the King. He is determined to do something with his life, and his new gifted land. He only had to tackle the issue of his new bride to be. Cedric and Sarra meet and have a very complicated relationship from the beginning. Both have to decide whether to or not to listen to their hearts. This book is an exciting romance, that anyone is sure to love. I have yet to be disappointed by this author!

♥ Shelby

Review: Ghostly by Samantha Combs

SUMMARY: High school has never been effortless for social misfit Juice Zander and her sophomore year is proving to be no exception. Having a new boy in homeroom actually pay attention to her might be a start to all that changing. But there are some big issues brewing. That fact that Shane Elliot has revealed himself to be a ghost isn’t her biggest problem. Neither is the fact that he wants her to help him find a “host body” so he can be a real teenager again. It’s not even that when she does find a possible donor for her supercute ghost, it’s another so-not-ugly guy who for some unprecedented reason likes her. No, her real problem is that after years of platonic friendship, she discovers one of her best buddies has feelings for her, and she’s afraid those feelings might be mutual.

Enlisting the help of her tight group of best friends, Juice sets out to 1) find the perfect host for her ghost, 2) figure out her surprising new relationship with her longtime friend and 3) maybe discover she’s not such a social misfit after all.

REVIEW: I think this is another great YA book from Samantha Combs. This book is full of friendship and romance. Juice, Sixx, Jett, and Creepshow are four friends who stick together and stick up for each other no matter what. This is especially true after Juice tell her friends about Shane. Shane is a ghost, and has chosen Juice to help him find a host body. Her friends are very supportive, and agree to help her and Shane find a body.  As the adventure to find Shane a host body begins, Juice finds herself having feelings for one of her close friends. With all these new developments, Juice realizes that maybe she isn't as invisible to everyone as she once thought. This book has a great message about realizing who you are, and being honest. I can't imagine a better book for young adult readers.

♥ Shelby

Guest Blog by Author Natasha Larry!!!

Unnatural Law Excerpt and ebook Giveaway

Hi all, I hope you enjoy this excerpt from Unnatural Law as it is one of my personal favorites. I will give a free ebook to everyone that comments and follows Shelby’s lovely blog here. Just make sure you leave your e-mail addy in the comment! =) Although it is not required, I would appreciate a Twitter follow. =) Enjoy! Also, if you would like both books, please let us know!

https://twitter.com/#!/natashalarry

As soon as he was gone, Lucy led Jaycie into her bedroom. “You amuse me,” Lucy told her, shaking her head. “And also sadden me. So easily distracted by matters of the heart. It makes you weak.”

Jaycie snorted. “Love makes you stronger.”

“He is an unnecessary distraction. And a vulnerability.”

“Hey, the Guard loves to kill, humans love to love.”

Lucy ignored this comment. “It is too late now for training.”

“Tomorrow?”

“Yes, if you’re...” Lucy stopped short and stood up with a scary urgency on her face.

“What?” Jaycie asked in surprise. In a flash, Lucy produced a bow and arrow from under the bed.

“How long has that been there?” Jaycie demanded.

“Shhh!” Lucy hissed. “Something is here!”

“What?”

Just then, the door flew open, and Lucy was suddenly on the floor with something clenched around her throat.Jaycie jumped to her feet and shrieked. Then she heard a murderous growl so bone-chilling, it froze her.

“Tell me which one of you did it!” a ridiculously pleasant female voice demanded. Jaycie immediately knew who it was. It was a voice she would never forget. “Sasha?” she asked in confusion. As soon as Sasha Gray looked up, Lucy had her on the ground with an arrow pointed straight at her throat. “I’m glad you showed up, vampire. I haven’t killed in weeks and I’m really thirsty for blood – excuse the pun.”

“Wait!” Jaycie yelped. The arrow flew out of Lucy’s bow and across the room. Lucy looked up at Jaycie dubiously. “Have you lost your senses?”

“I know her. Please let her go.”

Sasha was already out of Lucy’s hold, snarling. “I’m sorry, Jaycie Lerner. I only came to see your father, and I smelled her.”

“What? Why?”

“It does not matter why!” Lucy hissed.

“Why did you want to see my dad?” Jaycie asked again.

“My mother has sent me to request his assistance. Three vampires are dead with no cause. And the Guard are the only ones strong enough to kill my kind,” Sasha told her. She turned to Lucy. “You will tell me who and why. Now.”

Unnatural Law Blurb

Seventeen-year-old Jaycie Lerner’s psychokinetic power surge is over, and her astounding powers are under control for the time being – sort of. As she struggles to maintain her humanity in the face of the awesome terror and responsibility of her abilities, she also yearns for the chance at a normal life – and a relationship with Matt Carter, the best friend she had to leave behind. But Matt’s got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he’s not about to give up on his feelings for Jaycie.

As Jaycie and her family grapple with the day-to-day routine of trying to keep their world together, Jaycie’s mother figure, Allison Young, endures a personal crisis of her own. The superhuman blonde possesses the physical equivalent of Jaycie’s awesome psychic power. So evolved, at ninety-two she still looks twenty. But what good is extended life when everyone else around her is so fragile? With no one to share her unusual life, she’s a uniquely lonely woman yearning for the romantic love she sees all around her. But in a dream she gets her wish – and it quickly turns to a nightmare for everyone else in her life. The memory of a rose is all she can hold onto in the storm of obsession that nearly sweeps her away.

Things quickly turn deadly for the vampires, but the Dey-Vah Guard fairies refuse to acknowledge there’s an imbalance in the nature they protect. As the danger gets ever closer to Jaycie and her family, the race is on to find answers before a secret plot can destroy them all.

Author Bio

Natasha Larry resides in Huntsville, Alabama with her daughter and fiancé. She graduated from Tusculum College with a B.A. in History and is currently working on getting her certificate in education. Apart from writing, she is a self-proclaimed comic book nerd and urban fantasy junkie. Her poetry and short fiction has appeared in publications such as Writing Edge magazine and Escaping Elsewhere. Darwin’s Children is her first work of novel length fiction.
Author Web Site:
http://www.paranormalwire.blogspot.com
http://natashalarrybooks.blogspot.com/
Books by Natasha Larry
Darwin's Children ( Book 1 of Series: Darwin's Children )
Unnatural Law ( Book 2 of Series: Darwin's Children )

Kiss Me Crazy E-book Winner!

The winner for a copy of Kiss ME Crazy by Ednah Walters is:

c.mesnard@yahoo.com

Congrats! Your email will be forwarded to Ednah, and she will send you your copy. Thanks to everyone who participated!

BLOG TOUR : Unnatural Law (Darwin's Children book 2) by Natasha Larry

SUMMARY: Seventeen-year-old Jaycie Lerner’s psychokinetic power surge is over, and her astounding powers are under control for the time being – sort of. As she struggles to maintain her humanity in the face of the awesome terror and responsibility of her abilities, she also yearns for the chance at a normal life – and a relationship with Matt Carter, the best friend she had to leave behind. But Matt’s got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he’s not about to give up on his feelings for Jaycie.

As Jaycie and her family grapple with the day-to-day routine of trying to keep their world together, Jaycie’s mother figure, Allison Young, endures a personal crisis of her own. The superhuman blonde possesses the physical equivalent of Jaycie’s awesome psychic power. So evolved, at ninety-two she still looks twenty. But what good is extended life when everyone else around her is so fragile? With no one to share her unusual life, she’s a uniquely lonely woman yearning for the romantic love she sees all around her. But in a dream she gets her wish – and it quickly turns to a nightmare for everyone else in her life. The memory of a rose is all she can hold onto in the storm of obsession that nearly sweeps her away.

Things quickly turn deadly for the vampires, but the Dey-Vah Guard fairies refuse to acknowledge there’s an imbalance in the nature they protect. As the danger gets ever closer to Jaycie and her family, the race is on to find answers before a secret plot can destroy them all.

REVIEW: So impressed after reading this book! I have to say book 2 in the Darwin's Children series was great. I cannot imagine how hard it was writing these books. There is so much detail and things happening, yet you can easily follow it. Super impressed! This book was so exciting all the way through. The characters were still amazing, and I loved that Matt was brought into the story more. I really liked how there were several things going on at once that all tied into each other. Jaycie is trying to keep her powers in line after her surge, Haylee is learning about her ability, Allison is trying to figure out what is going on with herself lately, and Matt is the key to everyone's problems. There is also a few new characters in the story as well. Alonzo, a medium, was one that I really enjoyed. I can't say much more without spoiling. I read this book it two days. I seriously couldn't put it down. I loved this world that was created and its such a great, exciting, adventurous story!!! I was left begging for more! Natasha Larry, please tell me there will be more! Pretty please!!!!

♥ Shelby

BLOG TOUR FOR: KISS ME CRAZY BY EDNAH WALTERS!!!!!! Giveaway & Review!!! Come check it out!!

Summary: She's used to putting everyone first—her sister, her friends, her boss. It’s now her turn...

Art conservator, Kara Michaels has decided it’s time to chase her dream—start her own business restoring and framing works of art. She has the skills, the nose for business, and the pent-up frustration from being invisible to the man she wants but can’t have—her boss.

He’s a meticulous planner whose rule book is about to be tossed out the window...


Baron Fitzgerald, a successful art dealer and Kara’s boss, believes in having a strategy and following it without deviation. So when Kara tenders her resignation, he sets out to convince her to stay.Baron soon realizes that falling in love cannot be planned, but the insight comes a little too late for him and Kara.

Review:  Another wonderful book by Ednah!!! I am a huge supporter of this woman and her writing. She once again made me fall in love with another book! Kiss Me Crazy is book three in the Fitzgerald Series. ALL of these books are amazing, and you don't have to have read the first book to enjoy this one. Although I HIGHLY recommend reading them ALL! This book is Barons turn to find love. He and employee Kara have liked each other for years, yet had only shared one kiss. He finds that he spent to much time on work, and not enough time wooing Kara. She just turned in her resignation and now Baron must try to convince her how he feels. Although he didn't know just how he felt, he sure didn't want her out of his life. Kara is a tough independent woman who is trying to make something of herself on her own. Does she fall for Baron attempts to persuade her otherwise??? I would love to spoil it and tell you how it ends but I wont do that. However, I will tell you that this book is filled with romance, passion, and excitement. Like I said before, Ednah has yet to disappoint! I am soooo looking forward to book four!!!!!!

♥ Shelby


GIVEAWAY!!!!!

Ednah has kindly offered an E-copy of Mine Until Dawn (book 2) or Kiss Me Crazy to the winner. How do you enter?

1. Be a follower

2. Comment on this post AND leave a VALID email.

That's it folks! Winners will be announced on Friday, Dec 2nd!

Review: Supernova by Crystal Ward

Summary: Everyone is born for a purpose, and for Evania Laylen, that vocation is about to make itself known.

Guilt ridden after the death of her parents, Evania sinks into a deep depression. Living only for the addiction, and the man who saved her, she gives up on life. That is until the enigmatic Desmond Kane enters and shows her the life she was born to live. Thrust into a secret, action-packed world of good versus evil, Evania must rid her life of the addictive temptation, prepare her body for battle, and learn to embrace the possible in a world of impossible.

Review: MUST.HAVE.MORE!!!!  Just finished reading Supernova, and WOW was this an awesome read!!!! I thought this was excellent writing and I could picture everything I was reading. Jamaica, Vermont sounds like a great place to visit!  Loved, Loved the characters!!! Evania is such a great character because she is easy to relate to. After the death of her parents she goes through a lot. She has a drug addiction and is severely depressed. It was easy to emotionally connect with her pain. Desmond, *blushes* is so amazing. He was understanding (SEXY), caring (SEXY), and very patient (SEXY) when it came to helping Evania learn about her abilities. The bond between the two of them was beautiful. This book had me smiling the whole way through, and it is full of what I like to call "the little things". The things that make your heart melt...brushing fingers down a cheek, or making eye contact from across the room. These "little things", for me, made this book even more impressive. So  I could go on and on ....and on about this book, but you wont truly understand how great it is until you read it. Can't wait for book two, Tsunami!!!!

♥ Shelby

Review: Invisible by Jeanne Bannon

Summary: Lola’s not pretty. Lola’s not popular. Lola wishes she could disappear … and then one day she does just that... For seventeen-year-old Lola Savullo, life is a struggle. Born to funky parents who are more in than she could ever be, Lola’s dream of becoming a writer makes her an outsider even in her own home. Bullied and despised, Lola still has the support of her best pal Charlie and Grandma Rose. Not only is she freakishly tall, Lola’s a big girl and when forced to wear a bathing suit at her summer job as a camp counselor, Lola’s only escape from deep embarrassment seems to be to literally vanish. Soon after, she discovers the roots of her new “ability”. Slowly, with Charlie’s help, Lola learns to control the new super power. The possibilities are endless. Yet power can be abused, too… Then, when tragedy strikes, Lola must summon her inner strength, both at home and at school. She has to stand up for herself, despite the temptations and possibilities of her newfound super power. A coming-of-age story that will warm the heart.

YA
Solstice Publishing


Review:   Oh my goodness...I just read this book in one afternoon!!!! I seriously couldn't put it down. Who hasn't wanted to disappear at one point in there life? This was an incredible story of finding peace with who you are..inside and out. I loved Lola because she was such a real character, not like most books you read where the women seem to be gorgeous all the time. Lola is an average girl with self esteem issues. In this story she learns that her new ability makes her special. With the help of her grandma Rose, her best friend Charlie, and her boyfriend Jon, Lola begins to love herself. She also learns to let her family into her life as well. This book was such a amazing story with a great lesson, and I think many people of any age can relate to it. I seriously, seriously hope everyone reads this book!!!!! And because I loved it so much I'm giving it 5 stars ( I don't usually rate my books) but I'm starting as of now! 

♥ Shelby

Review: The Key by Felicia Rogers

Summary: A teenage girl suffering from a family tragedy, Maddie Clevenger is oblivious to the ancient mystery surrounding her. She’s young and incredibly unlucky, in life and in love. She should be enjoying her senior year of high school, but instead she is tormented by a reoccurring nightmare and a very real stalker. But all that changes when Chase Donovan, an Air Force brat with a protective streak, shows up at school. Will Chase be the key to helping her solve her stalker problem? Will he be the key to solving the mystery surrounding her family’s past?

Solstice Publishing
YA, Paranormal

Review: The Key was such a cool story to read! A modern fairy tale full of adventure. And of course there is a great love triangle. Maddie and Chase are both new in school and instantly drawn to one another. With the presence of Maddie's stalker around, Chase feels the need to protect her. Little did he know, this need to protect Maddie was stemmed from a war long before his time. Maddie soon learns more details about her parents death, and that she is in the middle of a paranormal war. Her and Chase struggle to find the answers to their ancestors history, and realize they may be the answer to the end of this war. This story also has another paranormal twist...I wont spoil it for you, but it doesn't contain the usual vampire, werewolf paranormal elements. This book really surprised me...I was expecting the norm and was totally wrong. Wonderful, out of the box thinking on this one. I think paranormal readers of all ages will really enjoy this book.

♥ Shelby

Review: The Perfect Rose by Felicia Rogers

Summary:

Abandoned by his wife and left to raise a child alone, Caleb Reed falls short of the ideal work-from-home dad. He needs a woman to help him, in every sense of the word. At the suggestion of a friend, Caleb agrees to hire Ariel Lauren on a trial basis.

As an orphan, Ariel has more issues than just how to make it on her on. Yes, she needs the money that Caleb offers her, but more than anything she finds she desires his love. One calamity after another befalls her and jeopardizes her new job and her chance at having a family. But through it all, Caleb is by her side, his gruff exterior threatening to melt in the face of their shared attraction. Will they decide to continue life alone or will the magic of Valentine's Day bring them together?

Adult Romance, Drama
Fiction
Published By Astraea Press

Review: I think I picked the perfect time of the year to start reading this book. Its cold outside and the holidays are just around the corner. Why does that have anything to do with this review? Well, this time of year I like to curl up with BIG blankets on my couch and watch the wonderful Christmas movies on tv. It's so warm and comfortable...which is how I would describe this story. The Perfect Rose filled my heart with warmth and happiness. Reading it, I felt like I was cuddled up even though I was sitting at my computer desk. This is a short story, but packed with everything. It always amazes me when authors can pour everything into a smaller book, and have it still be full of meaning. The main characters were wonderful, broken people looking for that missing piece in their lives. I loved being able to connect with the characters and feel their struggles along the way. I am so glad to have read such a heartfelt story, and I will definitely be putting this book on my best loved romance shelf.

♥ Shelby

AUTHOR INTERVIEW & REVIEW: Small as a Mustard Seed by Shelli Johnson

INTERVIEW WITH SHELLI JOHNSON:
I would like to thank Shelli for her time, and such a great interview! Thanks Shelli!!

Would you tell us a little about yourself?

Well, my name's Shelli Johnson. I used to be journalist and an editor (well, still am free-lance), but what I mainly write now is novels. I'm married, have two boys under the age of 11, and I just moved to South Carolina. I love cooking in my crock-pot (recipes up on my blog).  I also like running, which I’ve been told repeatedly is an oxymoron ~ lol.

What inspired you to write this book?

I was writing about the main characters ~ sisters ~ for about 4 months, both of them as adult women. The story wasn’t really going anywhere, and then one morning (about 2 a.m.) one of them showed up as a 10-year-old in a barn, scared out of her mind, her father with a gun to his head & threatening to pull the trigger. That scene ended up being the first chapter of the book. Once I got that idea, the rest of the story just came along with it.

Which character was the hardest to write for? Favorite character?

The father was the hardest to write: for being a man, a Korean war veteran, and finally for having schizophrenia ~ all things I have no personal experience in at all. 

My favorite character is Jolene. She’s headstrong & stubborn but loyal to her sister to a fault.

Did you have to do any research for this story?

Yes, a lot of research. I knew nothing about schizophrenia or Korea or being a veteran. I didn’t know what it was like physically or mentally to be in any kind of battle at all. So I read a lot of personal stories & interviewed veterans. The story takes place in the 1960's. I wasn’t even born in the 60′s so I had to interview people who were around back then. I’ve never had a sister so I had to talk to people about that. When I first started, I didn’t have any kids, so I had to talk to moms about parenting & about being overwhelmed. 

Let me tell you a cool thing, though, & why I believe the universe is a friendly place. I’d jot notes in my journal like, I need someone who knows about schizophrenia, and a week or so later, I got introduced to a woman who had lived with an adult schizophrenic & who graciously answered all my questions about how it was to be with him when he was off his medications. Later, I jotted, I need help with the medications, and shortly afterward I met a man who’d been a pharmacist in the 1960’s & who knew all about what drugs were used to treat schizophrenia back then and how severe the side-effects were. That kind of thing happened over and over again while I was writing that book. It made me trust & believe that I'd always get what I need.

Can you tell us what book you are working on/ recently finished now?

The book I recently finished will be coming out in 2012. It’s still untitled as of yet. Here’s a synopsis: When Rose Harlen struts into PJ’s Tavern in the scorching heat of an Illinois summer looking to cool herself off, she ends up discovering Danny, a charismatic man who alters the trajectory of her life forever. Instead of following her dream of acting on stage, Rose chooses the stability and comfort of marriage. But Danny has a life-changing secret. While Rose’s world careens toward catastrophe, Helena Basinski’s life in Poland radically changes when her husband’s activities in the Resistance trigger their family’s deportation by the Nazis to Buchenwald Concentration Camp. Helena is selected to serve in the camp’s brothel where one of the guards falls obsessively and dangerously in love with her. She survives the war but with memories that are bone deep and forever. Years later, after Rose’s world has been splintered and Helena’s shattered, the two women quietly but forcefully collide. You can read an excerpt here: http://shellijohnson.com/excerpts/unpublished-work-in-progress/

Currently, I’m writing my third novel. It’s about World War II from the point of view of a German soldier. I hope to have it out by 2014.

What advice do you have for inspiring authors?

• Don’t write for somebody else, write for yourself.
• Don’t pick a topic you’re not passionate about.
• Don’t force traits on your characters. Let them be who they are.
• Don’t try to force the story along because you’re in a hurry & need to get done.
• Don’t try to make someone else happy at the expense of yourself.

• Don’t ignore your gut.
• Don’t give up. Really, that’s the easiest thing to do when the years go by & the rejections pile up & you’re not where you want to be. 
• Don’t listen to everyone else’s rules. Find what works best for you & do that.
• And the biggest one (so it bears repeating): Don’t give up.
• Finally, my blog’s about following your dream. Many people have found something to spur them on there: http://shellijohnson.com/blog/

REVIEW:

Summary:

Review: I didn't read the summary before I started this book, so I wasn't sure what I was getting into. This book turned out to be incredible. Its not something that I wouldn't usually read, but from the minute I started I just couldn't put it down. The first chapter just captured me completely.  It is emotionally gripping with characters so real. Ann Marie was the character I connected with most. Always holding emotions inside. She had to carry so much grief, and eventually had to learn to let it go. Go find a nice comfy spot before you start this book, because you will not want to put it down until its finished.  A story full of struggle, heartache, faith and forgiveness. Small as a Mustard Seed was such a powerful novel, one that I'm so glad to have read.

♥ Shelby

Review: His Leading Lady by Paula Martin

Summary:

Jess Harper’s predictable life is turned upside down when she discovers that Lora, her twin sister, has disappeared. It’s just a week before rehearsals are due to start for a new West End musical in which Lora has the lead role. Jess decides to pose as her sister in order to save Lora's career. This brings her into close contact with arrogant theatre director Kyle Drummond. Attraction sparks between them but there’s also evidence that he had been dating Lora. So is Jess simply a substitute – in real life as well as in the show? And what will happen when Lora eventually returns?

Review:

His Leading Lady is such a wonderful romance. This story is creatively written with amazing characters. I enjoyed the musical life (which I knew nothing about) and the story of Kate. From the beginning, I was entertained and that excitement continued throughout the rest of the book. You never knew what was going to happen next. I loved never knowing when Lora was going to reappear, and how Jess knew how to step into her sisters shoes. Jess is by far my favorite character...strong willed, smart, and most of all REAL! You can really connect to her character. And OH MY do I wish Kyle Drummond were real!!! His character was so incredibly perfect and smoldering. Maybe in my next life *sigh* Makes me want to go to Scotland even more.  I enjoyed stepping into this story and being taken to a whole new world. I'm sure you will too!

♥ Shelby

Review: Darwin's Children by Natasha Larry

Summary: Life can get pretty complicated for any seventeen-year-old girl, but for a home-schooled telepathic black girl trying to survive in a prestigious private school in small-town Jonesborough, Tennessee, it can be maddening - especially when her telepathic father keeps eavesdropping on her thoughts!

Jaycie Lerner's family isn't the usual mom-dad-kid setup. Jaycie's mom's MIA, but Allison, her personal live-in 'trainer,' is more than a mom, with her own special abilities, like being able to lift cars and run incredibly fast. And Jaycie's godfather John is more than persuasive - he can literally convince anyone to do anything.

As far as the rest of the world's concerned, Jaycie's on the outside looking in. The townsfolk love Jaycie's pediatrician father, but she doesn't fit in with 'normal' kids, and she doesn't really want to. Most of her free time is spent training to keep her telekinetic and telepathic powers under control. But there's one thing she can't control - and that's her feelings, especially when her best friend Matt is nearby. If only he knew what she was truly capable of...

Everything seems to be status quo for Jaycie until she receives a cryptic message from a stranger and meets a very unusual girl new to Jonesborough. Then all hell breaks loose!

Review:  First of all, I thought this was such a great book to read. Second,  I just have to say how jealous I was when reading about Jaycie's telekinetic abilities! If I had a super power, telekinesis would be it....that or the ability to turn invisible! Not sure if I could handle the telepathic powers though. Hearing another person's thoughts would drive me crazy. Not Jaycie though. She is one tough girl. I loved her carefree, positive attitude, and I think she was my favorite character. Honestly all the characters were wonderful, and really created an amazing family. Each person has a special power. Telekinesis, Telepathic, Mind Control, Super strength and speed are just to name a few. Then you have Haley, who has a power that hasn't been fully developed yet. Jaycie tries to adapt to her abilities while maintaining personal relationships. While learning about her powers, she also learns from her dad and John, about the rest of the supernatural world.  Darwin's Children was so exciting, adventurous, and highly entertaining. WARNING! This book will leave you hanging and desperate to find out what's going to happen next.

♥ Shelby

Review: Song of Eidolons by Jessica McHugh

Summary:  Delaney Lortal is a unique breed of girl. She is well spoken, extremely well read, and highly ambitious for love, but it is not those qualities that make her so unique. It's not even because in twenty-two years of life, she has never set foot outside of her grandfather's house. What makes her so unique is the truth behind a mysterious secret that has made her the target of a clandestine Order called the Orisanima.

As wondrous as it is heartbreaking, Song of Eidolons follows Delaney’s journey of enlightenment as she struggles to peel back the layers of deceit to discover the amazing truth about her origins.

Review: Song of Eidolons is such a unique story unlike any I've read so far. It's very complex and beautifully written. Just when I thought I knew where the story was taking me, I would find out I was way off! Delaney is such a pure and innocent character. She was raised by her grandfather, Dags, and was never able to experience anything outside of her home and her books. She thought this was normal, that children didn't venture outside. But when she start to yearn for the chance at finding love, she begins to question why her grandfather really kept her in the dark.  When she is finally able to experience the outside world first hand, Delaney learns that she never really knew who or what she really was. Song of Eidolons is full of emotion, and by the time you finish this story you will realize its greatness. This book was my first by Jessica, and definitely not my last.

♥ Shelby

Review of Toonopolis:Gemini by Jeremy Rodden

Summary: Toonopolis is a cartoon city that is home to the thoughts and ideas of all sentient beings in the universe. As the center of the Tooniverse, it acts as an other-worldly rest stop for these creations.

Gemini is a teenage human boy who is thrust into Toonopolis through his father's scientific research program. He loses part of himself in the process and immediately begins a quest to regain his lost memories with the help of his Tooniverse guide named Jimbob the Talking Eggplant.

After an altercation with a mysterious Shadowy Figure, Gemini's mission is changed, and he begins a new quest to defeat Shadowy Figure and protect Toonopolis from his nefarious destruction. Along the way, he meets new friends, discovers just how diverse and strange Toonopolis is, and learns lessons about compassion, forgiveness, redemption, and being true to oneself.

Review: Oh man...What a really cool book this was to read!!! The author has such a creative imagination, and took me to a whole new world. Who would have thought there was a place for all the cartoons ever created?  A place with PEZ roads, gnomes, superheros, knights, and my favorite....A TALKING EGGPLANT! Yep folks, you heard(read) me right. Jimbob the talking eggplant. He is a guide to Gemini, a young boy placed into this tooniverse by his father. They go on an incredible journey through different places of toonopolis, and they meet so many other toons that help with his quests. Together they battle cartoons gone rogue, and others such as the Gumthulu and the Candemon. This is such a humorous story full of adventure. Even with all the different places and toons throughout this book, it is all strung together perfectly. Toonopolis was such an exciting read for me, and I think people of all ages would enjoy this book.

♥ Shelby

Review: A Kindred Spirit's Sanctuary by Dayna Ross

Summary: The setting of this book takes place in the early 1800's in Missouri when the foundation of the state was still in it's infancy.

Nicolette, the daughter of a wealthy and highly respected bank owner, is a spoiled and rebellious young adult with a carefree spirit that consistently reminds her of the fact that she was not meant to be born into the life that she had been forced to live.

Through her coming of age search for happiness, she happens upon Akash, a mysterious and powerfully built Native American slave.

The story progresses as the two struggle, not only to accept one another, but to fight for the companionship that the two come to find that they cannot live without.



Review: I always love reading about two people who are completely opposite of each other, but fall in love anyway. This story gave me just that. Nicolette is a young woman trying to find out who she is, despite constantly be pressed with the opinions of her parents. Her life is turned upside down when her parents move to a new home far away from her old life and friends. Her father is trying to pressure into the college of his choice, and her mother is too busy worrying about herself. Nicolette has no one that understands her. She meets Akash and is instantly curious about him, although he acts like he could care less about her. He thinks she is just like the other high class people around him who try to pretend he's invisible. He is just a savage after all. Nicolette is taken back at the way Akash treats her, but is adamant to show him she is more than that. After a short time the walls around Akash's heart come down and he lets Nicolette in. This leads to a dangerous adventure that neither of them saw coming, but they were determined to be together. This was wonderful story with passion and excitement. I can't wait to read more work from Dayna.

♥ Shelby



BOOK TOUR, REVIEW, and GIVEAWAY of Mine Until Dawn : Book 2 of the Fitzgerald Family by E. B. Walters

Make sure you check out the giveaway at the end of this review!!

Summary :  She's armed with a new attitude and a kick-ass wardrobe... By age twenty-eight, art historian Jade Fitzgerald has had a marriage from hell and an equally nasty divorce, worked hard to control her weight and her arrhythmia. The last thing she needs is another man messing with her head or shooting her heartbeat off course. That is exactly what she gets when an aloof and mysterious stranger storms into her life. He's cynical and doesn’t take crap from anyone... Former investigative reporter Vince Knight is on a quest to recover a priceless, ancient Mayan artifact, which he believes Jade’s mother stole. He’s skilled at gathering information while remaining emotionally detached, until he meets Jade. The voluptuous woman stirs in him a hunger he hasn’t felt in a long time and a protectiveness he can’t explain. Until, an insane man decides to add Jade to his collection of beautiful and rare things... Neither Vince nor Jade expects passion to flare so fast or danger to dodge their footsteps. To defeat a ruthless art collector with a twisted agenda, Jade and Vince must learn to trust each other and embrace their growing feelings.

Review : Oh how I didn't want this book to end!!!! Mine Until Dawn is an amazing read people! Full of passion, adventure, mystery...If I could live out one book it real life it would be this one. I loved EVERY part of this book, and once again I wish I could be apart of the Fitzgerald family. Jade is such a realistic character and I connected with her instantly. She appears to be strong on the outside, but inside she still struggles with the negativity that her ex embedded in her mind. Then comes Vince (sigh). The perfect description of my ideal man. From the moment Vince and Jade meet there is a pulling attraction between the two of them. They both learn to let their guards down and find their way to each other's hearts. Mine Until Dawn is so creatively written, and the story line was fantastic. The suspense of what happens next kept me reading until the book was finished. I promise you wont be disappointed in this book. Go check it out!!!

♥ Shelby

Giveaway : E. B. Walters has graciously offered an e- copy of Mine Until Dawn to be given away at each blog participating in this tour. 

To Enter for this blog:

1. Be a follower

2. Leave a comment with a valid email address

3. Like E. B. Walters on facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/ednahyaauthor

4. Like The Fitzgerald Family on facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Fitzgerald-Family-series-by-EB-Walters/149204081811639

4. Extra points for liking Words To Follow on facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Words-To-Follow/167045110034227

5. share this giveaway on facebook. Please leave link with your comment.

Also be sure to check out the other blogs participating in this book tour!! All are giving away an e-copy as well so there are more chances to win! A big thanks to Forbidden Reviews for hosting this giveaway. http://www.forbiddenreviews.com/

NEXT STOP ON THIS TOUR IS: http://amethystdaydreams.blogspot.com/



Review: Pandora's Box ( The Road to Hell Series ) by Gracen Miller

Pandora's Box

Summary:
Where does the road to Hell begin?

What happens when your son turns homicidal overnight and your husband disappears on his way to work? Do you cower in fear or fight for your life? Madison Wescott fights against the odds. Distrustful of a God she doesn't believe in, she finds herself face-to-face with a world she didn't know existed and discovers her own soul is darkened with demonic connections.

With good intentions? Or by demonic design?

Phoenix Birmingham bursts into Madison’s life in a whirlwind of sarcasm and sexual appeal. A hero for the masses—and for her jaded heart—but few will ever know the sacrifices he has made or the sacrifices to come. Discovering her entire life has been influenced by multifaceted paranormal beings, Madison is determined to defeat the apocalyptic blueprint fate has decreed, but only one man dares to challenge the supernatural forces manipulating them. Even with Phoenix's aid, can destiny be denied? Or will demonic design prevail while they pay the crucial price with their souls?

In a small, sleepy Alabama town the battle for mankind's liberty has begun...


Review:

Ok. First of all let me say if you're not 18 and older, this is an adult content book! That being said...HOT DAMN was this book AMAZING!!! I am still trying to cool off after reading this book!! The day I started this book I was almost late picking up my little man from pre-K.  Thank God I finished it before dinner or my family would have starved!! Ok, maybe not starved, but it would have been PB &J sandwiches or something quick. I. Could. Not. Put. This. Book. Down!  Are you all getting that I LOVED this book??? From the moment I started reading I couldn't  help but be instantly sucked into this great story. The characters were amazing and real to me throughout this adventure.  I loved Madison's strength and her will to do anything for her child Amos. And I'm sure anyone who has read this book has spent many nights fantasizing about Phoenix. *blushing* I can't wait to find out what happens next!! No seriously, Gracen if you lived closer I would stalk you until the next book was finished! Just kidding...well kinda! Hehe! Seriously though..go read this book people! Its fabulous!

♥ Shelby



Review: Elusive Echoes (Second in The Echoes of Orson's Folly series) by Kay Springsteen

Elusive Echoes

Summary:

They’re two people caught between friendship and something more; they can’t move forward, and they can’t let go.

Drawn together from early childhood, Sean McGee and Melanie Mitchell seemed destined for each other. But at age thirteen, Melanie was wrenched from the people she loved and forced onto a path she loathed. Sean was no stranger to people leaving, but losing Melanie devastated him. When she suddenly reappeared in Orson’s Folly, Sean was overjoyed. The Melanie who came home, though, wasn’t the same girl. She’s got a harder edge and she’s obviously hiding something, but Sean no longer knows how to reach her.

Returning to Orson's Folly as an adult, all Melanie wanted to do was forget the years she spent away. But she soon learned that going home didn’t mean she could return to her old life—or her childhood sweetheart, Sean. Even their mutual attraction to one another hasn’t rebuilt the bond of trust and closeness they once shared. It’s been seven years since she returned and now everything Melanie wants to forget has broadsided her. She must confront her demons and relive her past in an unexpected way or risk losing the only man she’s ever loved. But even if she succeeds, Sean might be lost to her anyway.

 

 

Review:

 

If you have read Lifeline Echoes and loved it, you definitely won't be disappointed in book two of this series. Elusive Echoes is just as amazingly written as the first. A story full of hope, love, and passion.  I think I loved this book even more than the first. The characters were so believable and I connected with Sean and Melanie so much. I joined them on their journey and went through the emotions as they did. This story has a wonderful plot that was easy to follow along with. I would definitely recommend this to anyone and I hope there is another book coming to this series soon!

 

♥ Shelby









Review: Lifeline Echoes ( First in The Echoes of Orson’s Folly series) by Kay Springsteen

Lifeline Echoes

Summary :

Voices form a powerful connection. The day the earth rocked LA, Sandy Wheaton became a voice lifeline over the radio for trapped firefighter, "Mick." Less than twenty-four hours later, she had fallen in love with him. Shattered when she learned that rescue came too late, she sought solace Wyoming, the home state he had loved. Now, seven years later, she's made a life there as the owner of a popular local bar. But her wounds are still fresh, and she longs to let go of the past and her lost love so she can begin living again. That opportunity presents itself when the local prodigal son returns home. The attraction between them is instant. It feels like she's known him far longer than just a few days.

Sixteen years ago, Ryan McGee left home in the midst of controversy. After living through a harrowing trauma, he finally returns home when his family needs his help through some troubling times. All he wants to do is make amends with those he hurt most and to get back to the life he'd never wanted to leave in the first place. When he meets the sexy bartender, he starts thinking in terms of forever. But there's still someone out there he wants to find, someone who once believed in him and gave him hope.

Review:

After I read this book I honestly just sat there with a smile on my face. This is an incredible love story with a fairytale ending. Exciting, sexy, and just AMAZING! This is a story that I'm having trouble writing a review for because I want to tell everything about it. The details of the story make me long for a life on a ranch in beautiful Wyoming...with lots of sexy ranchers around ( hehe). That's another great thing about this story...its very passionate and sexy without a lot of erotic detail. Lifeline Echoes was so creatively written. I've read a lot of romance and this storyline surprised me...in a good way of course :) I was never bored and was always excited to get to the next chapter. I fell in love with Ryan and his need to come back home to his family even though he knew it would be hard. I loved that he was such a strong, protective character who would do anything to help out those he cared about. Sandy was just as great of a character. She was brave, independent, and fearless in the face of danger. A woman I could see myself looking up to. Both Ryan and Sandy are fighting the emotions of letting go of the past. Its great to watch them let their guards down when they are around each other. Then there are characters like Justin, Sean, and Melanie who help bring the story to life.  Lifeline echoes is such an brilliant story that will leave your heart full of love and happiness. Everyone should take time to sit and read this book!

♥ Shelby

REVIEW of A Job From Hell and Black Wood by Jayde Scott

I was lucky enough to review TWO great books from Jayde Scott!

A Job From Hell

Summary: Enter a world of forbidden love, rituals, dark magic and ancient enemies...

An ancient bond draws Amber to the immortal Aidan shortly before her eighteenth birthday when she starts her summer job in Scotland and unknowingly wins the deadly prize in a paranormal race, turning her from a mere mortal into a priceless commodity. With every immortal creature hunting her for her new ability, Amber's life will never be the same again, unless she searches the Otherworld to retrieve what everyone wants.

But to do so, Amber must die.

Review: This book was such an exciting read!! Its filled with romance, friendship, humor, and tons of action that will keep you turning pages way past your bedtime. As a mother of two small children, that says a lot. Characters Amber, Aidan, Clare, Kieran, Cassandra, and Dallas are intoxicating. And as amazing as Aidan is...I may have a small crush on Kieran. *blushes* Who doesn't like a cocky pretty boy once in a while? The questions that you 'll be asking yourself as you read will make you want to keep going to the next chapter. Who's good? Who's bad? Will Amber ever be able to go back to her old life? Does Amber give in to the bond between her and Aidan? Oh how I wish I could give you all the details, but I'm a spoiler free kind of gal ;) This is truly a wonderful story that I wish never ends. I would definitely recommend this book!

Black Wood     

Summary: Witches, trolls, nymphs and Silverfurs are surely the figment of one’s imagination. That’s what Emily Jones used to think until she moves to Scotland shortly before her fourteenth birthday to live in her deceased grandmother’s manor. Ravencourt Manor's just as creepy as she remembers it with plenty of creaking noises, rattling doors and a hunched shadow that roams the manor’s garden at night.

In the hope to bring her separated parents back together, Emily opens a portal to Black Wood; a world of dangerous and alluring nymphs dwelling beneath the streams ready to drown her, where the sinister guardian and keeper of the Black Heart and cursed trolls are waiting, desperate to be released. And so Emily’s long and dangerous fight against the evil Muriel begins.

Will Emily learn to use her grandmother's legacy in time before the evil Muriel regains her full powers to summon and unleash her deadly servants on the world?


Review: I honestly wasn't sure how I would like this book since it was targeted for a younger audience. However, I am so glad that I read it, because it awesome! I would love to get into the mind of Jayde Scott for a day to see how she comes up with her ideas and concepts. The way the story is described really takes you in.  Emily is a strong, courageous 14yr old who has no choice to fight Muriel in order to save her world. There are only few to help her as she learns about this crazy new world and magic that exists. She fights to save her family and friends who are slowly being cursed.  This story was adventurous and creepy. It's definitely going to be loved by teens everywhere. I didn't want this story to end....and I am left hanging to see the fate of Emily's world and family. I believe anyone of any age will enjoy this story. I sure did :)

♥ Shelby