Blog Tour: Seduced by Power By Kimberly Kinrade

Title: Seduced by Power

Series: Seduced #3

Author: Kimberly Kinrade

Published: March 18th 2013

Publisher: Daring Books

Format: Kindle Edition

Pages: 153

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Seduced by Power

Amazon

BLURB

Seduced by Power

Forbidden passions.
Deadly secrets.
A love that will stand against it all.

Their passions will destroy them.
Only true love will save them.

Find out why critics and fans are raving about the Seduced Saga. Heat, romance, mystery and poetic writing make the Seduced Saga an original new adult paranormal romance that you won't be able to put down!

In Seduced by Power, the final book in Rose's Trilogy, Rose and Derek face the greatest threat to their love, and lives, as they are forced to make painful choices to save those they love the most.

They give everything they have to end the battle against Rose's mother and retrieve that which was stolen from them. But will it be enough to save them?

Available March 18, 2013

Get caught up in the Seduced Sage with Seduced by Innocence and Seduced by Pain.

Coming Soon:
Seduced by Love (A Surprise Seduced Book)
Seduced by the Sea (Ocean's Story)

MY REVIEW

Seduced by Power

The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Rose is still trying to find a way to defeat her mother, Rainbow and to take back the rose bush that she stole from Derek's family. Not only does she have to worry with her mother she is also trying to find a way to get Derek's brother Dean's soul back at the same time.

When Rose and Derek are having sex Rose has to feel pain so that she won't send Derek's soul to hell also. But the pain is not enough anymore and she sends Derek's soul to hell as well. Rose's heart is broken over the fact that she has hurt the one that she loves. Rose is a very sweet and loving person and would never do anything to cause harm or hurt to anyone. Unless they are like her mother who does evil things to human beings then she will do what she has to, to stop them from hurting others. So now Rose has to find a way to save them all. Can she or will she be able to do what is necessary to save them? Is her heart that good?

While trying to save Derek and Dean Rose meets her farther and finds out who his is and also what he is a demon. Rose will have to go to hell herself to save Derek and Dean. She meets a demon in hell who helps her get their souls back. But she has to make a choice that could mean she will loose her life. Is she strong enough of a person to make this choice?

The demon Blake has fallen in love with Rose and although he is a demon he helps Rose knowing how she feels about him and also knowing that he can never be with her. In the beginning I really didn't care much for the demon Blake as with most demons he was out to help only himself but in the end he turned out to have a very good heart.

I have truly enjoyed reading all three of the Seduced Saga books. If asked which one I liked the best I could not say as I loved them all. And I highly recommend that you read all three but I do suggest that you start with book #1 Seduced by Innocents and then book #2 Seduced by Pain. I cannot wait to read the next two books in the series Seduced by Love (A Surprise Seduced Book) and Seduced by the Sea (Ocean's Story) although they are not about Rose.

I have loved the Seduced Saga so much that I plan on reading The Forbidden Trilogy by Kimberly Kinrade. I have found myself another favorite author.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimberly Kinrade was born with ink in her veins and magic in her heart. She writes fantasy and paranormal stories for all ages and still believes in magic worlds. Check out her YA paranormal series The Forbidden Trilogy, her lower grade fantasy series The Three Lost Kids, and watch for her New Adult romance and fantasy books coming in 2013 including The Seduced Saga, Sunrise and Nightfall, Death by Destiny and The Fallen Trilogy and her next YA fantasy adventure, The Reluctant Familiar. You can find her books on Amazon, B&N and Goodreads among other fine retailers.

When she's not writing, she runs Daring Books Design & Marketing with her husband, Dmytry Karpov, where they help authors with all manner of marketing, editing, and design needs until such a time that their brilliant children take over the business for them.

She lives with her three little girls who think they're ninja princesses with super powers, her two cats who think they're gods (and probably are), her two dogs who think they're humans and her husband, also known as the sexy Russian Prince, who is the love of her life and writing partner.

ONLINE LINKS

Website

Twitter @KimberlyKinrade

Facebook

Amazon

Goodreads

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is for a Custom Rose Pendent inspired by series, signed paperback copy of Seduced by Innocence.

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Blog Tour: Journey After School By Jasmine Sheffield

Journey After School

by Jasmine Sheffield

About The Author:


Jasmine, a loving mother and wife, is a resident of Virginia. She is a 

graduate of Florida A&M University where she received a B.S. in 

Computer Information Systems. She went on to receive her M.S. in 

Management Information Systems from University of Illinois Springfield. 

Although she has a passion for technology, her greatest love is helping 

her peers with their careers and finances. 



Website | Facebook | Twitter

Book Genre- Self-Help

Publisher - Our Journey Publishing
Release Date - 1/9/2013
Amazon

Graduating from college is easy when compared to the effort of getting hired after graduation. Once hired, maintaining your professionalism and managing your finances can be challenging. Journey after School seeks to provide guidance for new graduates. Like the syllabus provided by a professor at the beginning of a semester, Journey after School is a brief, easy read.

Excerpt 1-

You've proven you have the skills, experience, and personality to join the company. From the first day on the job, you have to perform and do it professionally. For young professionals, a challenge will be proving that you are capable of performing the job. You are no longer in college and should not give your colleagues the impression that you are a student.

Appearances are important, and just like at your interview, you should wear appropriate attire to work. The business attire you wore to the interview may not be required for your office; therefore, it is important to ask your recruiter or hiring manager about the dress code. As you begin working, you can observe your colleagues and determine how formal or casual they dress.

In school, classes had a defined schedule, but in your career, you may not have a specific schedule. Many employers expect that you will be at work at a reasonable time and do all of your hours for the day. If you have the luxury of choosing your own schedule, be mindful of your company's core business hours. Typically, the core hours
are defined between a start and finish time like 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If your schedule is predefined, be sure you are punctual. You are not expected to work non-stop when you arrive at work, but you should minimize your downtime. When you are away from your workstation for an extended period of time, you should inform someone that you will be away. Your colleagues should not have to search for you and should never question whether you have actually worked all of your scheduled hours. 

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Blog Tour: Rapture By Phillip W Simpson

Title: Rapture

Author: Phillip W Simpson

Genre: Ya Dystopian

Date Published: 12/1/2011

PURCHASE
Rapture

Smashwords author page | Amazon - Rapture (kindle version) | Amazon - Tribulation (kindle version)

BOOK DESCRIPTION
Rapture

The Rapture has occurred - the end of the world. The faithful have risen up to Heaven. Those left behind are in a living hell. Armed only with his swords and his wit, a teenage boy wanders this post-apocalyptic world alone, separated forever from everyone he loves. Cursed by his demonic heritage, he must now embark on a quest that will take him across the US to the City of Angels.

EXCERPT
Rapture

As soon as this thought entered his mind, it was interrupted by a demonic presence to his left. A cluster of Lemure surged out of what had once been the local coffee house, screaming as they advanced. Sam sprinted around a wrecked SUV to give himself some breathing room, drawing both swords.

He swung around to his left, still at full stretch. Whether by good luck or by displaying a higher than usual level of intelligence, three of the Lemure hadn't fallen for the ploy. They met him on the other side of the SUV, running as hard as he was. Sam didn't even pause. He struck high then low and spun around to deliver a double blow to the third Lemure. All three turned to ash in his wake.

He kept sprinting, skirting around the wrecks in the middle of Main Street, heading east. It was opposite to the direction he wanted to head in but he would double back later in order to confuse his pursuers.

Sensing that the demons were falling behind, Sam slowed to a fast jog. He could keep this pace up for hours if he needed to. Before the Rapture, he had often run into the Rockies and back before the sun had even snuck up over the horizon. Night-time was when he always trained, away from prying eyes. He always felt stronger in the dark. Hikari had told him that his night vision was much better than any other humans, something he had suspected when he realized he could see almost perfectly in all but the most absolute darkness.

It was just as well because now the only light came from the moon, which was hardly a great source of illumination. Normally, street lights, the frontages of residential homes, the odd shop open for a late night and the occasional car would provide ample light for the average resident. It was odd running through the small town like this, guided only by the malevolent red glow from above.

Disturbingly, despite his injuries, Sam felt even stronger right at that moment, almost as if the moon was energizing him. He looked up, hoping to catch a glimpse of a star in the now cloudless sky. There were none. Had been none since the Rapture. The stars, once beautiful and sparkling in the clear country air, had all fallen. Where they had landed, Sam had no idea. He just knew that they weren't in the sky anymore.

Suddenly a shadow fell across the moon, a strong wind buffeting him from above. He'd sensed the presence of the Astaroth but he was far, far too late. Too late and too slow. Cursing himself for his lack of concentration, Sam attempted to roll but felt something lift him off his feet with a powerful jolt. It was the Astaroth alright. Clearly, those wings weren't for show, he thought wryly as the Astaroth slowly gained height. Luck had been on his side though. Instead of those mighty talons piercing his skin, they had merely jagged his backpack.

Then Sam remembered what were in his hands. What had been in his hands all the way down Main Street. His swords. He swept both up at the same time, each aiming for a different leg, and felt a savage surge of satisfaction as the iron weapons both connected and bit deeply. The Astaroth roared so loudly that, if Sam had been able to, he would've covered his ears.

Instead, he found himself falling. Surprisingly quickly. He thought, rather belatedly, that he hadn't actually planned this out very carefully.

The ground rushed up to meet him.

GUEST BLOG
Pet peeves of the publishing industry

In the course of my writing career, I've had almost 50 books published by mainstream publishers. Publishers include Penguin, Macmillan, Pearson, Oxford University Press and Cengage. These, admittedly, are mostly educational books for children and books to help teachers teach the writing process.

In terms of my commercial fiction, I've recently become an indie writer. My Rapture Trilogy was published by Pear Jam books, a small publisher based in New Zealand. I got my rights back in January, 2013 and decided to go Indie because of the trouble a small publisher faces in terms of distribution. They struggle to get their books in mainstream bookstores. Many of these bookstores are reluctant to take on stock not produced by a major publisher.

Not only that, but my books are difficult to buy in print where they need to be - the U.S. The Rapture Trilogy is set in the States and I believe the content appeals more to American audiences than any other. It's also difficult to get reviews in popular review spots such as newspapers, magazines etc. I had many reviews by bloggers and in all fairness, bloggers target my demographic much better. It's a fantastic way to get word out to potential readers. But still - it would be nice to see my books in the review pages in the Sunday papers.

There are so many good books out there by small presses and indie authors but many people have never heard of them. I believe the industry is changing however - for the better. Indie and self published authors have a lot more control now, especially with the advent of the e-book and the ability of these authors to sell their books on-line. Mainstream review sources are starting to sit up and take notice but it's still very difficult. Kirkus, for instance, offers a review service for Indie authors but it'll cost you. From memory, I think it costs around $500 for a Kirkus review. I know it's impractical for them to review every book but it would be nice if they offered the same free service they offer to mainstream publications. Perhaps when a book has received enough attention, Kirkus could produce a free review. Maybe the criteria could be a certain amount of reviews from bloggers or a certain amount of ratings from sites like Goodreads. Food for thought.

Regardless, I have fully embraced my Indie status and I'm looking forward to publishing my next few books myself. With Apocalypse, I will have five novels available as e-books. I've got one chapter book that I want to put up as well as two picture books. In addition, I'm currently working on my sixth novel. It's going to be a busy year!

MY REVIEW
Rapture

After reading the Left Behind Series I kept thinking that there would be a lot of people who would be very disappointed when the Rapture came and the world ended. There would be a lot of people who would be asking why they were not taken? People that went to church every time the doors were open. They would be thinking they believed with all their heart but undoubtedly they didn't really believe. And when reading Rapture I couldn't help but think the same thing. At first people were disoriented, out of their heads wondering where their whole family had gone, they couldn't find them anywhere. If they weren't taken by the demons then after a while the people in Rapture probably began to think the same things.

But Sam our main character in Rapture knew that he would not be taken in the Rapture. Why? Because Sam is half-human/half-demon. Sam's mother left him with her friend to protect and raise Sam. To teach Sam what he needed to know and what he had to do when the Rapture came. Sam was disappointed and upset when he learns that he would not be able to go to heaven with the man that raised him and his daughter Aimi whom Sam feel in love with. Sam was not allowed to go to school with Aimi because of who and what he was. His guardian home schooled him to protect him from all the kids at school. Kids and teenagers can be very mean about things that they know nothing about or don't understand. So the only friend or person that he really ever knew was Aimi. But Aimi was a very sweet and nice person and loved Sam very much. She supported him in everything and always reminded him of the great person he was.

With Sam being the great person that he was despite the fact that he was a demon finally figured out or understood that his purpose for being born was to protect and keep the innocent safe after the Rapture. Before the Rapture Sam had no friends and didn't trust anyone. But afterwards he did find friends in Josh the nephew of the priest of Jacob's Ladder and the best friend of his guardian. He also found friendship a girl, Grace whom he and Josh went to Hell literally to save her. She was an innocent and did not belong in Hell.

Rapture was vividly written in a way that you could actually see in your mind what I think the author wanted you to see. The way that he described how the world looked after the Rapture was like you felt as if you were there yourself seeing it for yourself. There's no way you could not have liked Sam with the way the author described him as well. You fall in love with his character and your rooting for him in ever battle hoping that he makes it out alive. Sam is half-demon but he is a better person than some of the people that was left behind.

The ending did kind of catch me off guard. I never actually expected what happen to happen. It was a definitely a surprise. You know where Sam is going what it is that he has to do. But the thing is you never expect it to turn out the way it did. You know I wasn't real sure about reading Rapture with it being about religion. I kind of thought I wouldn't like it very well but the summary made it sound like it would be well sort of a good read. But I am so very glad now that I read it because it was a way better story than I ever thought it would be.

About the Author

Phillip W. Simpson is an author of mostly children's books - both fiction and non-fiction.

As well as being a writer, he is an elementary school teacher. Career highlights include being in the army, gaining a Masters in Archaeology, owning a comic shop, becoming obsessed with martial arts and oriental weapons and turning down a job at the British museum.

His YA novel RAPTURE (the first in the Rapture trilogy) was released Sept 1st, 2011 by Pear Jam books. RAPTURE is a dystopian/post-apocalyptic story about the end of the world featuring demons, angels and a half demon protagonist caught in the middle. RAPTURE was shortlisted for the Sir Julius Vogel award for best Youth novel.

Book 2, TRIBULATION, was released in December, 2012. The final book, APOCALYPSE, will be out early 2013.

On a personal note, he is married to Rose, has a son (Jack) and two border terriers, Whiskey and Raffles. He loves fishing, reading, football (soccer) and single malt Whiskeys.

ONLINE LINKS

Rapture Trilogy | Webisite 1 | Webisite 2 | Blog | Facebook | Follow me on Twitter! | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is tour wide for 3 Print Copies of Rapture and 1 Print Copy of Tribulation.

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Blog Tour: Hurt Like HELL By London Casey

Title: Hurt Like HELL

Author: London Casey

Genre: New Adult Romance

Publisher: Hundred to Home

Format: Ebook

Length: 56000 words

Release Date: March 21st 2013

PURCHASE
Hurt Like HELL

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

BOOK DESCRIPTION
Hurt Like HELL

The debut novel from London Casey
HURT LIKE HELL

Tessa Belle barely escaped her father's abusive hands ten years ago, when she was just thirteen.

On her own now, in her own apartment, she tells herself it's time to start living. Her dating life has been lackluster as no boy or man could ever love her or protect her the way Jack Smithen had. After all these years, she can still picture his face that fateful night.

When her deadly past comes crashing into the present, she feels too alone to do anything. That's when her long lost love, Jack, appears - literally - and takes hold of her life, and her heart. It's been ten years since their first kiss, ten years since their lives were changed forever. But now they're together again, adults now, able to help each other, able to love each other openly. Jack's the only person who understands what Tessa endured, because Jack endured the same from his own abusive mother.

Just when it feels they can share the life they always dreamed, Tessa's father is released early from prison. His sole mission is to finish what he started that night in their basement ten years ago...

Hand in hand, Tessa and Jack prepare to face Tessa's father one last time... but this time, can they both make it out alive?

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Blog Tour: The Shadow of Black Wings By James Calbraith

Title: The Shadow of Black Wings

Series: The Year of the Dragon #1

Author: James Calbraith

Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Alternate History,

Publisher: Flying Squid

Format: Ebook and Paperback

Length: 70000 words

PURCHASE
The Shadow of Black Wings

Amazon

BOOK DESCRIPTION
The Shadow of Black Wings

"Fast paced and full of energy"
--Adrian Tchaikovsky, author of the Shadows of the Apt

"This manuscript is full of highly crafted detail that will make readers shiver at times with fear and delight ... a familiar yet highly original fantasy that is a worthwhile read."
-- Publishers Weekly

"The real-world cultures are incredibly well-researched and truthful, and yet well-balanced with the fantasy elements. An intriguing and impressive series."
-- Ben Galley, author of the Emaneska Series

It is the Sixteenth Year of Queen Victoria. In the powerful empire of Dracaland, Bran, a young dragon rider, joins his father on a military expedition to the mysterious lands of the Orient. In the reclusive Yamato, Sato, a tomboy samurai girl, strives to prove her right to inherit her father's school of western magic. Nagomi, a timid shrine apprentice, is haunted by the visions of dark future she must keep secret even from her best friend.

They don't know it yet, but their paths will cross... And when they do, nothing will ever be the same again.

Welcome to The Shadow of Black Wings, a steam-powered romp across the land of dragons, wizards and samurai. It's big, it's fast, it's been compared to Tolkien in terms of world-building, it has strong female characters and lots of carefully researched detail. You will meet the Royal Marines sailing mighty ironclads and Chinese walking machines; mysterious warlords and crazy inventors; you will discover dark prophecies, family secrets and blood-thirsty demons. And all that in just the first volume!

EXCERPT
The Shadow of Black Wings

A single gear whirred and clicked into place. A valve opened, letting out a thin plume of grey steam with a quiet hiss. A gold-plated dial moved by a notch. A tiny mallet sprang from its compartment, striking the brass gong - one, two, three, four, five, six times.

Master Tanaka looked up in surprise - an hour of the Hare already? He turned towards the window and the pink light of dawn illuminated his face. The temple bell only now started to ring out the time. He sighed then yawned, rubbing tired eyes. Another night had passed without him noticing.

The elementals inside the clock awoke with a soft purr and the automatic brush began to move swiftly inside the glass cloche. A slot opened in the mahogany pedestal and spat out a piece of paper upon which was written the day's divination. Hisashige reached for it absentmindedly, his attention focused on the piece of complex clockwork on which he had been working. He glanced briefly at the calligraphy - Oku, 'a gift'. He smiled to himself and nodded knowingly.

A higher-pitched chime rang eight times - counting out the hours of the Western reckoning. The door slid open and a small boy entered the workshop. With his long and angular face, puffed lips and wide straight nose, he bore no resemblance to Master Tanaka.

'It came from Kiy? this morning, Father,' the boy said, presenting Hisashige with a large, ornately packed wooden box.

'Excellent!' the old master exclaimed.

He put the box on the workbench beside the clockwork and began to unwrap it eagerly.

'Sh?han-sama was supposed to send me some Walcheren glass.'

He stopped abruptly and his shoulders sank when he saw the crest on the box, in golden leaf - three lines in a circle. He lifted the lid without enthusiasm. Inside was what seemed like a small human head, completely bald.

'Some gift.' Hisashige looked at the clock with reproach. 'It's just another of Z?zan's broken dolls.'

BOOK SOUNDTRACK
The Shadow of Black Wings

PROLOGUE:

1. Overture: The Empire and the Mechanician (And I Will Kiss, Underworld) 17:15

CHAPTER ONE:

2. Bran's Aerobatics Exam (Test Drive, John Powell) 2:36

3. Men of Llambed, The Academy's Anthem (Men of Harlech)2:54

CHAPTER TWO:

4. The Bard in the Tavern (Three Welsh Airs, Susan Scott) 4:59

5. They're playing Farmer's Fancy! (Ffansi Ffarmwr, Dy Werin) 3:30

6. Dylan ab Ifor's Theme: The Royal Marine (Soldier'an Sailor Too, Massed Bands of HM Royal Marines) 3:04

CHAPTER THREE:

7. A Gwynedd Summer (Helfa'r Marchogion, Crasdant) 4:20

CHAPTER FOUR:

8. The Memory of Temasek: Ifor's Diary (Singapore, Hans Zimmer) 3:41

9. The Ocean's Call (Theme de David, Vladimir Cosma) 2:25

CHAPTER FIVE:

10. The Ironclads and Factory Smoke (Industrial Revolution, Jean Michel-Jarre) 4:39

11. Soldiers and Sailors Too: Brigstow Harbour (Smith of Bristol, The Dubliners) 2:30

12. Farewell to Langyfelach: Song of the departing dragoons (Ffarwel i Langyfelach Lon, Meredydd Evans) 2:02

CHAPTER SIX:

13. The Greatest Ship Ever Built (A Life on the Ocean Wave, The Band of HM Royal Marines) 1:05

14. Tinubu's Tricks; Egungun Dancer (Nigeria Tribal Rhythms and Percussion, Djembe and Dungu Folk) 3:42

15. Bran's Birthday Jig (Two Hornpipes – Tortuga, Hans Zimmer) 1:14

CHAPTER SEVEN:

16. Fragrant Harbour (Fragrant Harbour, The Band of Royal Hong Kong Police) 2:20

17. Fan Yu, the Great Harbour! (Fishermen on the East China Sea, Zhu Xiaomeng) 5:08

18. The Songs of the Boat People (Fishing Junks at Sunset, Jean-Michel Jarre) 6:02

CHAPTER EIGHT:

19. Battle in the Sky: What Are Your Orders, Arian? (Wheel of Fortune, Hans Zimmer) 6:46

CHAPTER NINE:

20. Act II: Another Land (Entrance Music for Traditional Rakugo Entertainer) 0:53

21. Nansei Summer; Accursed Weather (Asadoya Yunta of Okinawa, Group from Okinawa) 2:07

22. Overwizard-dono! "The Advantages of Floating in the Middle of the Sea" (from Pacific Overtures) 5:51

CHAPTER TEN:

23. Sato's Theme: the Samurai's Daughter (Shinsengumi Main Theme, Kyoto Piano Ensemble) 3:42

24. Suwa Shrine; Lady Kazuko (Heron's Dance, Male Shinto Choir) 1:57

25. Nagomi's Trance (Shrine Maiden's Dance, Shinto Instrument Ensemble) 3:15

26. Ei!Ei!Ie - Toh! (Kendo Drumming) 0:21

27. The Bathhouse (The song of Bathing in the Hot Spring, Group from Iwai) 3:29

CHAPTER ELEVEN

28. Snow in Kiyo (Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, Ryuichi Sakamoto) 4:45

29. It fell from Heavens! (Blade Runner End Titles, Vangelis) 4:39

CHAPTER FOURTEEN:

30. Night Escapade; Streets of Kiyo (Yojimbo Title, Masaru Satoh) 3:01

CHAPTER FIFTEEN:

31. The Dark Clouds Gather: The boy is a castaway (Seven Samurai Theme, Fumio Hayasaka) 1:24

CHAPTER SIXTEEN:

32. Shuhan's Lullaby (Edo Komoriuta, Takashi Yujiro) 1:13

33. Master Tanaka's Machines (Gohatto, Ryuichi Sakamoto) 2:02

34. The Best Castella in the City (Bastiana, Coral Dinamene) 1:37

35. The Crimson Robe Theme: Demon (Demon God II, Joe Hisaishi) 0:57

36. Dark Energies; Take me to Suwa! (Battles, Clannad) 1:01

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN:

37. Epilogue - the Scent of Wisteria (Kagemusha, Shinichiro Ikebe) 4:04

BONUS TRACKS:

BOOK 2: THE WARRIOR'S SOUL (Suo Gan, John Williams)

BOOK 3: THE ISLANDS IN THE MIST (Ar Lan Y Mor)

BOOK 4: THE RISING TIDE (Furusato)

About the Author

James Calbraith is a 34 year old Poland-born writer, foodie and traveller, currently residing in South London.

Growing up in communist Poland on a diet of powdered milk, Lord of the Rings and soviet science-fiction, he had his first story published at the ripe age of eight. After years of bouncing around university faculties, he moved to London in 2007, found a decent IT job and started writing in English. His debut historical fantasy novel, ""The Shadow of Black Wings"", has reached ABNA semi-finals. It was published in July 2012 and hit the Historical Fantasy and Alternate History bestseller lists on Amazon US & UK.

ONLINE LINKS

Website/Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Google+

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is tour wide for 8 eBook copies and 2 print copies of The Shadow of Black Wings by James Calbraith and ends on 04/03/2013.

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TOUR SCHEDULE LINK

This tour was put together by FMB Author Promotions

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Blog Tour: Never Too Far By Thomas Christopher

Title: Never Too Far

Author: Thomas Christopher

Genre: Dystopian, Adventure, Sci-Fi, YA

Publisher: Kalmaha Press

Format: Ebook

Length: approx. 212 pages

PURCHASE
Never Too Far

Amazon

BOOK DESCRIPTION
Never Too Far

A harrowing story of love and survival. In a future of scarce resources, where the possession of gas and diesel is punishable by death, a teenage boy and a pregnant girl must save their impoverished family. They risk their lives on a terrifying journey to sell stolen fuel on the black market.

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is tour wide for a $10 amazon gift card and Kindle copy of Never Too Far by Thomas Christopher and ends on 3/29/13.

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TOUR SCHEDULE LINK

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Blog Tour: Going Under By S. Walden

Title: Going Under

Author: S. Walden

Genre: New Adult

Date to be published: March 19, 2013

SYNOPSIS

Going Under

Brooke Wright has only two goals her senior year at Charity Run High School: stay out of trouble and learn to forgive herself for the past. Forgiveness proves elusive, and trouble finds her anyway when she discovers a secret club at school connected to the death of her best friend. She learns that swim team members participate in a "Fantasy Slut League," scoring points for their sexual acts with unsuspecting girls.

Brooke, wracked with guilt over her friend's death, decides to infiltrate the league by becoming one of the "unsuspecting girls," and exact revenge on the boys who stole away her best friend. An unexpected romance complicates her plans, and her dogged pursuit of justice turns her reckless as she underestimates just how far the boys will go to keep their sex club a secret.

(This is a New Adult fiction book with mature themes. It contains explicit language and descriptions of sexual violence.)

EXCERPT

Going Under

I had no business getting all dolled up for Ryan. I was supposed to be focused on Cal, but somehow he became just some guy in the background, out of focus and unimportant in my life. I thought I heard Beth screaming from a far off place, asking me what the hell I was doing, but I ignored her. She couldn't control my life. I'd get to Cal when I got to him. She had to understand that.

I studied myself in the full-length mirror. I'd never looked prettier for work. I thought I looked like a Barbie doll, my hair pulled up high on my head in a ponytail, locks curled and tumbling in flirty waves from the elastic band. I pumped up the eye factor with heavy mascara. I wanted to go for an Edie Sedgwick look-all '60s glam. I even ironed my uniform, a typical diner waitress outfit. Blue shirtdress that hit just above my knees. I slipped on my Keds and grabbed my apron.

I planned to knock his socks off.

. . . I approached him after counting to twenty. I didn't want to seem too eager.

"Hi," I said. I felt bright and bubbly and on top of the world.

"Hello."

I placed my hand on my hip and popped it out. "Come here often?" I couldn't resist.

"Once. The waitress was cute, but she's got nothing on you," Ryan said.

Damn right she doesn't. I went Edie Sedgwick for you, buddy.

"God, you look gorgeous," he said.

Oh, those heart flutters. I wanted to feel those heart flutters forever.

"I'm in an ugly uniform," I said, looking down at my outfit. I smoothed my apron on my stomach.

"Not ugly at all. Sexy more like."

I blushed, and this time he saw. I couldn't conceal it under the glare of the restaurant lights.

"Hungry?" I asked, and pulled out my order pad.

"What would you recommend?"

"Honestly? I've only eaten the turkey sandwich. It was all right," I confessed.

"Don't you get to eat for free?" Ryan asked.

"Are you kidding? A little bit of a discount, sure, but nothing for free," I said. "And anyway, I'm so tired after work, I don't want to stick around and eat. I want to go home."

"I can understand that," he said. He looked over the menu. "Well, I guess I'll try this steak sandwich."

"A man who eats manly meat," I said. "I like it."

"Manly meat, huh?" he asked, chuckling.

"Sure. Didn't you know steak was the manliest of meats?"

"Making a note of it," Ryan said.

I nodded. "And to drink?"

"A Cherry Coke," he said.

"Now that's a little girly, but I'll let it slide."

"Well, I really ordered it for you," Ryan said. "See, I thought you could bring it over here along with two straws. You could sit across from me, and we could drink it together."

About the Author

S. Walden used to teach English before making the best decision of her life by becoming a full-time writer. She lives in Georgia with her very supportive husband who prefers physics textbooks over fiction and has a difficult time understanding why her characters must have personality flaws. She is wary of small children, so she has a Westie instead. Her dreams include raising chickens and owning and operating a beachside inn on the Gulf Coast (chickens included). When she's not writing, she's thinking about it.

She loves her fans and loves to hear from them. Email her at swaldenauthor@hotmail.com and follow her blog at http://swaldenauthor.blogspot.com where you can get up-to-date information on her current projects.

ONLINE LINKS

Blog | email | twitter | Facebook

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Blog Tour: Hereafter By Joya Fields

Title: Hereafter

Series: Hauntings at Inner Harbor #1

Author: Joya Fields

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Decadent

Format: Ebook

Length: 132 pages

PURCHASE

Hereafter

Decadent Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Hereafter

When by-the-numbers accountant Rob Morrison, a skeptic of all things paranormal, moves into a new apartment and discovers it is haunted by the corporeal ghost of a beautiful woman, he must hastily reconsider his beliefs and revisit his painful past.

With no memory of her time on earth, Angie Barsotti doesn’t understand why she’s compelled to visit the same apartment every night as a ghost caught between two worlds. If she’s to have a chance to move on, she needs to find the missing pieces of her life and death through the man who lives there…if only he’d believe in her.

Together they struggle to find the truth about her death and stumble upon a very pleasurable way to time travel, hopeful they can prevent her death. But someone doesn’t want them to discover the truth. And if she’s human again, will she have any memories of her time as a ghost…and more importantly, will she remember the man who helped her find her way?

About the Author

Joya Fields has had over 100 stories and articles published in local and national magazines. Her debut novel, a romantic suspense, is a NJRW GOLDEN LEAF WINNER FOR BEST FIRST BOOK OF 2012 and is nominated for RT Book Reviews 2012 Indie Press/Self-Published Contemporary Romance award.

Over the years, Joya has taught arts and crafts, worked in public relations, owned a daycare center, helped her children raise prize-winning 4-H livestock, competed in three marathons, and even spent a year as a Baltimore Colts cheerleader. Joya loves spending time with her high school sweetheart/husband of over twenty years, two very supportive children, and a pug who follows her everywhere.

ONLINE LINKS

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is tour wide for a set of HEREAFTER Romance Trading Cards, open to International, and two free ebook copies from Decadent (winner's choice).

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TOUR SCHEDULE LINK

This tour was put together by FMB Author Promotions

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No Joke April Fools Giveaway

No Joke - Win Big April Fools Giveaway

Kindle Fire HD 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HD (US Only)

Or $199 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)

Or $199 in Paypal Cash (International)

Sponsoring Authors

The Breeders by Katie French

"The Breeders is a YA dystopian read that's as gritty and dark as the cover and title suggest. It takes a look at how society might devolve if females were commodities: bought, sold, stolen, and traded to keep the dwindling human race going. Frightening concept. I loved it." --A.G. Henley, author of The Scourge

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Dissidence by Jamie Canosa

"An amazingly snarky protagonist, two hot boys, a mass rebellion, and an ending that will blow your mind are the perfect ingredients that will make Dissidence the next big thing in YA." --Beth, YA Sisterhood

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The Moon Dwellers and Fire Country 

by David Estes

“Fire Country is an epic start to the Country saga and left me with my heart pounding and totally breathless. Phenomenal" --K-booksxo.blogspot.com

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Blue Hearts of Mars by Nicole Grotepas

Love between humans and androids is forbidden, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen...

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The Tale of Mally Biddle by M.L. LeGette

"To say I loved this book is an understatement." --April Holgate

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Terra by Gretchen Powell

"This could be your world... but it's definitely Terra's, and she navigates it with determination, and a longing for answers that makes her story engrossing and entertaining." -- abookobsession.com

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After the Fear by Rosanne Rivers

"The book is just breathtaking from the moment you start till the moment you put it down." -- Amazon review

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Entanglement by Dan Rix

A YA Dystopian Romance where every human is born with a soulmate, whom they meet on their 18th birthday...and the one boy who's the exception.

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daynight by Megan Thomason

“Sure to win over YA readers looking for a dangerous, dystopian adventure story” --Kirkus Reviews

 “Gripping; page-turner” --BlueInk Review (starred review)

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Fields of Elysium by A.B. Whelan

"The novel's take on otherworldly travel is a compelling one, and the romantic plot will likely appeal to Twilight fans." - Kirkus Reviews

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Giveaway Details
1 winner will receive their choice of a Kindle Fire HD (US Only), $199 Amazon Gift Card or $199 in Paypal Cash (International).
Ends 4/15/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Blog Tour: Frost By Taryn Kincaid

I would like to welcome Taryn Kincaid to The Avid Reader today. Thanks for stopping by Taryn. Please be sure and check out Taryn's novel Frost. Oh and be sure you enter the giveaway before you leave.

Title: Frost

Series: 1Night Stand -Sleepy Hollow #3

Author: Taryn Kincaid

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Format: Ebook

Length: 12636 words | 39 pages

PURCHASE

Frost

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Decadent | ARe | Smashwords | Bookstrand | CoffeeTime

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Frost

Dagney Night, a sought-after succubus, is no stranger to blazing hot sex. But as Valentine's Day approaches, she longs for something more. When oddly erotic paintings arrive for display at her art gallery, arousing everyone who views them, she wonders about the mysterious artist who created the works.

Maxwell Raines, a fire-sex demon, lives a life of solitude and seclusion behind the walls of his compound at Sleepy Hollow, channeling his lustful impulses into his art-until his muse deserts him and his temperature rises past the danger point. He needs sex. Now.

When Madame Evangeline arranges a torrid Valentine's 1Night Stand for them, will the flames of their encounter be too hot to handle?

EXCERPT

Frost

Dagney followed her sister's glance, and her heart flipped like a gymnast unable to nail a vault. Darkness swathed the gallery with the exception of the lights above or below each of the paintings. The large man emerging from the shadows held her rapt. Waves of pure, unadulterated lust smacked her with such force she didn't even see Lily and Campbell leave. The blast of raw desire crumpled her to the floor. Her gaze remained riveted on the tall hunk of ferocious male stalking toward her, radiating undiluted carnality. He set something carefully on the floor and grasped her by the elbows, his touch surprisingly gentle when he lifted her to her feet.

"I'm Maxwell Raines."

Yeah. No kidding. Who else could a guy so hot, so studly, possibly be?

She told herself not to swoon. Ordered herself not to swoon. But, Goddess, that rumbling voice. More potent than a train barreling over the tracks. And he smelled so good. Sinfully masculine. A bit of musk, a bite of pine, an essence of dark, smoky nights. Sexy scents. Reminiscent of tangled satin sheets that had been given a good work-out.

Her legs turned to rubber, and she doubted they'd support her on their own. She'd be mortified if he'd have to scrape her puddled body up again. But he hadn't yet relaxed his grip. Could she bullshit her way through the meeting without collapsing? "You're late," she said.

"I'm never late."

"Well, the party's over, Mr. Raines." She waved a hand around the empty room.

"Depends on your perspective."

"You're big on perspective, are you?"

"I'm a painter." A brief shrug accompanied his blunt words. "Obvious connection."

"Right. But as you can see, everyone's left."

"You haven't." He gazed down at her, a black brow flaring. "And you're what I'm here for."

MY REVIEW

Frost

The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I was given a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Dagney Night is a succubus who has to have sex to live. But she has come to a time in her life where sex without any kind of emotions is not enough. She wants more. She wants what her sister Lily found with her boyfriend from high school after a 1NightStand. Dagney has her own art gallery and has a showing of Max Raines paintings coming up. When Dagney sees his paintings and what is happening to everyone who lays eyes on them herself included. She is ready to contact Madame Evangeline for her own 1NightStand with Max for Valentines.

Max Raines is a fire-sex demon who lives alone and tries to stay away from having sex of any kind because he is tired of turning his partners into a pile of ash. When he finds out that the owner of the art gallery is none other than Dagney Night a succubus he also contacts Madame Evangeline to set him up with Dagney for a 1NightStand of his own.

This is not my first 1NightStand book and I hope it is not my last. I read Lightning book #1 in the Sleepy Hollow series by Taryn Kincaid and fell in love with the 1NightStand books and Taryn's writing. I can't wait to read more of Taryn's work and the 1NightStand stories. With having skipped reading book #2 Thunder I don't feel as I missed anything by not reading them in order. Each book has its own story and in my opinion they don't have to be read in order to know what is happening. After reading Lightning and now Frost I know I would really love Thunder as well.

About the Author

Taryn Kincaid lives in scenic Serendipity-By-the-Sea. (Go ahead. Try to find it on a map. If you do, Taryn will send you a smooch. Also a Nutter Butter.) She is an Olympic caliber athlete in egg rolling contests and spends a great deal of her time petitioning the U.S.O.C. to introduce fantail shrimp competition. When she's not bungee jumping off the Palisades or parasailing up and down the Hudson River, she devotes her time to caring for her aging pet walrus, arranging her voodoo doll-pin collection and practicing rhythmic chants. At this moment, she is busy picking up loose wholewheat spaghetti sticks that spilled out of the cupboard and onto her kitchen floor. Wait. Is that something…sparkly?

ONLINE LINKS

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Facebook Author Page | Amazon Author Page

DECADENT PUBLISHING

Sign up for Decadent Publishing's Newsletter | Follow on Twitter | Like us on Facebook |

For more information about Decadent Publishing authors, books, and their submissions guidelines, visit www.decadentpublishing.com. Decadent Publishing is current accepting submissions in all sub-genres of romance, including their ongoing series'.

GIVEAWAY

The giveaway is tour wide for Book swag and chocolates and 1 ebook from Taryn Kincaid's backlist (not FROST) and ends on 03/26/2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE LINK

This tour was put together by FMB Author Promotions

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