Excerpt and giveaway: Karma by Charity Ferrel

Book & Author details:

Karma by Charity Ferrell 

Publication date: June 6th 2014

Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

I’m cursed. Yes, cursed and this isn’t some paranormal fantasy. This is my real life. Karma has decided to last out on me. I’ll never find my true love and I’m learning to accept that. The only problem is; he isn’t. He’s starting a war with karma and everyone knows karma always fights back with a vengeance.

Gabby Taylor is screwed. On her first day at her new internship, she runs into the guy she’s been fighting to avoid. The one guy whose family despises her and she drunkenly gave her virginity away to. And he’s her new co-worker.

She is messing up everything Dalton Douglas has planned. She climbed her way into his thoughts, thrown her bags down and he could’t manage to evict her- even if it cost him everything he’s been

working his ass off for. The only problem is: she’s fighting him. He will fight to keep her but can he manage to hide his own secrets that would ruin everything between them?

EXCERPT

“You’re not cursed, baby.”
“I am, too,” I screeched, tossing my hands up. “We’ve already had this discussion, and there’s no changing my mind. Eventually you’ll see for yourself.” My stomach tightened at my revelation. I was afraid of Lady Karma ripping him away from me.
His hand moved to my cheek, and he slowly began to stroke it softly. “Then call me a fucking prince, a guy witch or whoever fixes that shit, because I’m going to break that curse.” I laughed, averting my eyes and focusing on the rough feel of the couch. His hands slid down to my chin, bringing my eyes back up to his. “I’m going to kick that curse’s ass so hard it won’t come near you again,” he added, and I let out a light giggle. “You hear me?” His fingers trailed over to my mouth, tracing the outline of my top lip back and forth.
“It’s a warlock,” I replied, and his hand froze.
He blinked twice before saying anything. “I’m sorry, what?”
“It’s a warlock,” I began to explain. “Guy witches are warlocks.”
His eyes went wide, and he pressed his palms to my cheeks. “Are you fucking kidding me, babe? Out of all of that shit, you picked up that I got the male witch reference wrong. Jesus, maybe you are cursed,” he responded, his mouth twitching into a wide smile, showing me all of his pearly-white teeth.
“I told you.”
His lips touched mine then pulled away; he snapped his fingers in front of my face. “There, now the curse is gone. It’s been broken.”
I shook my head. “A kiss that breaks the curse? This isn’t a Disney movie, buddy.” 

AUTHOR BIO

Charity Ferrell was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and still resides there with her future hubby and furry, four legged children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, caving into her online shopping addiction or spending time with her family.

Author links:

http://authorcharityferrell.blogspot.ca/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7539473.Charity_Ferrell

https://www.facebook.com/authorcharityferrell

https://twitter.com/charity_ferrell

Giveaway:

Tour-wide giveaway

Kindle eReader (INT)

2x signed copies of Karma (US only - eBooks if INTL)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Athena's Ashes: Excerpt and giveaway

Book & Author Details:

Athena’s Ashes by Jamie Grey

(Star Thief Chronicles #2)

Publication date: August 26th 2014

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Science Fiction

Synopsis:

It’s Renna’s biggest job yet – convincing MYTH leadership that she’s put away her lock picks and is ready to save the galaxy, despite the dangerous implant in her brain. But with the Athena on the run, she’s working solo and facing her most ruthless enemy, the traitor Pallas, who’ll go to any lengths to destroy the MYTH organization. Including framing Renna for a devastating assault on MYTH HQ that leaves their defenses crippled and hundreds dead.

Now that MYTH believes she’s a dangerous double-agent, Renna escapes their firing squad before they put more holes in her than a pair of fishnet stockings. But the ticking time-bomb in her head is the one thing Pallas needs to complete his master plan and he’s not about to let her get away. Even worse, he’s discovered the only thing that will bring Renna to her knees – threatening Captain Nick Finn.

Out of time and options, Renna’s got one shot to take down the traitor before he annihilates everything she loves, even though winning this battle may cost her everything.

Excerpt 

Renna turned as Dr. Samil entered the room. The young doctor wore a pleasant smile despite the slightly frazzled appearance of her long blonde hair escaping the messy bun she always wore. Renna leaned back against the edge of her bed. “Do you always have to look so happy at the prospect of stabbing me with those instruments of torture?”Dr. Samil’s blue eyes sparkled. “For someone who’s done her share of killing, I can’t believe you have a needle phobia.”“We all have our weaknesses,” Renna said with a shrug. “Pointy, shiny, metal bloodsuckers just happen to be mine.”Samil set her holopad down on the counter and pressed her thumb to the scanner to unlock the drawer. She pulled out a tray of tools. “I guess it’s time for the torture to begin.”The doctor brushed her bangs back off her forehead, and Renna gritted her teeth as she slid back onto the bed, preparing to be poked.“How’d the last test go? Is the implant fusing normally?” Renna stared pointedly at the far wall as Samil fumbled with the glinting needles on the tray. “Or whatever normal is in this screwed-up situation.”The doctor shook her head, flicking a finger against one of the syringes before pushing the plunger. Pink-tinged liquid squirted from the needle. “I wish I knew. I haven’t seen anything like this before. It’s fascinating.” Her voice was full of that breathless excitement Renna had come to hate. “Whatever Dr. Navang did prompted your ordinarily harmless implant to start fusing directly with your nervous system. If my hunch is right, any other cybernetic implants installed during this time would also fuse to your body. You could even start picking up other electronic signals.”Renna flinched. Not only because of the quick jab of pain as the doctor deftly slid the needle into her arm, but because she was already picking up those electronic signals. Things were progressing faster than the doctor knew.“Relax. I promise this won’t hurt.”“That’s what Navang said.” Renna tilted her head and fixed Samil with a frown. “And look how that turned out.”

AUTHOR BIO

Jamie Grey spent most of her childhood writing stories about princesses who saved the day and pretending to be a daring explorer. It wasn’t until much later that she realized she should combine the two. Now, as a tech-obsessed gamer geek, her novels mix amazing scientific developments, future worlds, and the remarkable characters that live in them.

Jamie lives in Michigan with her boyfriend and their pets, who luckily tolerate her overspending on tea, books, and video games. You can learn more about her at www.jamiegreybooks.com, or follow her on twitter via @jamie_grey.

Blitz-wide giveaway

--Paperback of Star Thief Chronicles book 1 & 2 + ebook of the novella

--25$ Amazon Gift Card

--Athena's Ashes postcards and tote bag

Open internationally; ends Sept 9th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: Vain (The seven deadly #1)

VAIN (The seven deadly #1)

by Fisher Amelie

SYNOPSIS:

If you’re looking for a story about a good, humble girl, who’s been hurt by someone she thought she could trust, only to find out she’s not as vulnerable as she thought she was and discovers an empowering side of herself that falls in love with the guy who helps her find that self, blah, blah, blah...then you’re gonna’ hate my story.

Because mine is not the story you read every time you bend back the cover of the latest trend novel. It’s not the “I can do anything, now that I’ve found you/I’m misunderstood but one day you’ll find me irresistible because of it” tale. Why? Because, if I was being honest with you, I’m a complete witch. There’s nothing redeeming about me. I’m a friend using, drug abusing, sex addict from Los Angeles. I’m every girlfriend’s worst nightmare and every boy’s fantasy.

I’m Sophie Price...And this is the story about how I went from the world’s most envied girl to the girl no one wanted around and why I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is a book that evokes either 1 of 2 feelings on the readers, love or hate. Personally I really enjoyed VAIN. 

It was fast paced, entertaining and sweet. Some parts were heartbreaking but

the writing was nice and simply flows.

There were a few things I didnt like because they were not believable such as their actions after being attacked and Abri's sudden change of mind.

That being said I loved Sophie. 

Dont get me wrong! I thought she was awesome at the beginning being a complete b**** lol but her growth was amazing.

She became such a great, loyal and caring woman.

Ian, Charles and Karina are great characters too. Charles and Karina are so cute together! I envy a love like that one!

And Pemmy rocks! Best lawyer ever! Being the closest to a father that Sophie's ever had.

Who else? Spencer!!! I can't wait to read more about him. And book 2 has him as the protagonist! yummy :)

The love story was tender and beautiful but not so overwhelming which was good. The whole book was interesting without it.

The end is bittersweet but It was definitely a good book.

Review: Torrent (River of Time #3)

Torrent (River of Time #3)

by Lisa T. Bergren

Genre: YA Time travel, historical fiction

- See review of Waterfall (River of Time #1) - 

- See review of Cascade (River of Time #2) -

SYNOPSIS:

When Gabi and Lia finally learn to surf the river of time, they realize they must make hard choices about life and love in the third and final book in the River of Time series.

 

Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times.

 

But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful conclusion of the River of Time series, every decision is about life … and death.

MY THOUGHTS:

5 stars/birds

CAREFUL! THERE MIGHT BE SPOILERS FROM THE PREVIOUS BOOKS!

I loved loved loved the beginning!

I'm so glad Ben is back with them. At first, I thought it was going to be more of the same but the story traps you instantly.

I love the plan they device to free Fortino. 

Of course, what happened was unexpected but naturally it couldn't have been that easy.

About characters: 

- Lord Zinicola! He is so cool :D I want a neighbour like him.

- Tomas, amazing and brave! One of the best characters of the trilogy.

- I admit I was intrigued with Rodolfo Greco since book 2, and I was very interested to see where his quest was going, and where his heart was heading... Certainly, I would have enjoyed more depth in his relationship with Gabi. I wanted to see more of them.

The turn of events involving him was shocking.

- I confess: I never fell for Marcello. But nonetheless, I couldn't think for a better outcome than the one Lisa T. Bergren wrote. 

- Lia and Luca, how cute! and corageous!

- The girls' parents are also incredible, I liked how well they adjusted to the time.

About plot and pace:

This installment was fast paced and even more action packed than the previous one but with a bit more romance.

Overall I can say this is an amazing series, with well built and fascinating scenarios. 

I absolutely felt in medieval Tuscany, the author really caught the essence of those times and the place and managed to make it entertaining.

Super recommended series!

Review: Cascade (River of time #2)

Cascade (River of Time #2)

by Lisa T. Bergren

Genre: YA Time travel, historical fiction

- See review of Waterfall (River of Time #1) - 

SYNOPSIS:

Mom touched my underdress—a gown made six hundred years before—and her eyes widened as she rubbed the raw silk between thumb and forefinger. She turned and touched Lia’s gown. “Where did you get these clothes?”

Gabi knows she’s left her heart in the fourteenth century and she persuades Lia to help her to return, even though they know doing so will risk their very lives. When they arrive, weeks have passed and all of Siena longs to celebrate the heroines who turned the tide in the battle against Florence—while the Florentines will go to great lengths to see them dead.

But Marcello patiently awaits, and Gabi must decide if she’s willing to leave her family behind for good in order to give her heart to him forever.

MY THOUGHTS:

4 stars/birds

"There is always one unexpected moment in life when a door opens to let the future in"

Lisa T. Bergren has a great ability to pull you in easily. At the second page I was sucked in the story again.

I totally dived in the 14th Century. I loved the descriptions, not only the places  but the habits, I could totally picture myself walking the streets and palazzos of Siena. And at the same time, I felt related to Gabi and Lia.

It's hard for a 21st century's mind to jump into such a different time.

Love the politics and how alliances and treason unfold through the book.

The plague part, well... it's a historical event I've read about before, but this time I connected truthfully with the facts.

I loved how Lia and Gabi reunite their forces again and that ends in plot with a lot more action. Though their suffering and torture was endless.

About the characters:

Gabi is very suspicious all the time... relax a bit sweety! , on the other hand Marcello is so naive. Mhmmm... that bothered me a little.

Signora Regello is great: so sweet and selfless. 

Greco... oh my! he intrigues me, I can see something building up in his mind and maybe his heart, I definitely like him. The brotherhood secret was an interesting turn of events.

I also enjoyed how Lia and Luca's love grew and it was nice to read more about them in this installment.

Lord Paratore is back and worse than ever. If you though he couldn't be more evil... you were wrong.

To sum up: More action, less romance (though, enough), and a surprising twist at the end.

Cover Reveal: Deadly Pack

Ashley Stoyanoff is thrilled to release the cover of Deadly Pack, the final book in her young adult paranormal romance trilogy, the Deadly Trilogy, which is set to release on September 27, 2014.

Add it to your TBR shelf on Goodreads!

Book Description:

Since becoming the alpha female of the Dog Mountain pack, Jade certainly has had her share of challenges.  She’s had to prove herself to a bunch of werewolves that she spent years hating; forgive her mate who’d done nothing but lie to her, and face the grueling fact that her father leads a pack of werecougars, who are responsible for tormenting her werewolves for many years.

On the upside, the Dog Mountain pack is finally coming together—now that Jade and Aidan’s mate status is official.  And now that they know where her father’s been hiding his nasty pack of beasts, Jade and Aidan can concentrate on stopping them once and for all.

But when Jade’s dad finds out that she’s become Aidan’s official mate, all hell breaks loose, and Jade and Aidan soon learn that his plans for their werewolves are bigger than anyone could have ever suspected.

Add it to your TBR shelf on Goodreads!

About Ashley Stoyanoff

Ashley Stoyanoff is an author of paranormal romance books for young adults, including The Soul's Mark series and the Deadly Trilogy.  She lives in Southern Ontario with her husband, Jordan, and two cats: Tanzy and Trinity.

In July 2012, Ashley published her first novel, The Soul’s Mark: FOUND, and shortly thereafter, she was honored with The Royal Dragonfly Book Award for both young adult and newbie fiction categories.

An avid reader, Ashley enjoys anything with a bit of romance and a paranormal twist.  When she’s not writing or devouring her latest read, she can be found spending time with her family, watching cheesy chick flicks or buying far too many clothes.

Connect with Ashley online:

Website | Facebook | Goodreads