Happy Release Day! Black Tie Christmas by Jo Michaels

Title: Black Tie Christmas

Author: Jo Michaels

Genre: YA Sweet Holiday Romance

Editor: Tia Silverthorne Bach with INDIE Books Gone Wild

Publication Date: November 27^th, 2018

Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR

Blurb:

Seventeen-year-old Evelyn Hart is a broken shell of her former self. She can’t even talk to the cute barista in the mall who asks for her number without having a panic attack afterward. Barely holding herself together, she heads to the Caymans with her family for a little pre-Christmas trip, needing time to focus on her future career as an artist.

All is well until they check in at the hotel, and Evelyn comes face-to-face with the boy from the mall, Adam. Believing she has a boyfriend, Adam tells her he just wants be friends, and she agrees. They spend their entire vacation hanging out together.

Falling in love wasn’t in her plan, and now, she has no idea how to tell him about the lie—or the incident that left her in pieces—because she’s terrified he’ll run. So, Evelyn lets him return to New York without saying a word.

All she can hope for is understanding from Adam and a little Christmas magic to help her open her heart to someone once again.

Buy Links:

Amazon * B&N * Kobo * iBooks * Smashwords 

Jo Michaels is...

Hi, I'm Jo. Let's forget all the "Jo Michaels is blah, blah, blah" stuff and just go with it. I'm a voracious reader (often reading more than one book at a time), a writer, a book reviewer, a mom, a wife, and one of the EICs at INDIE Books Gone Wild. I have an almost photographic memory and tend to make people cringe at the number of details I can recall about them and/or their book(s). My imagination follows me around like a conjoined twin and causes me to space out pretty often or laugh out loud randomly in completely inappropriate situations.

I have a degree in graphic design, and my journey to the end was one few students who begin that program ever complete. However, this was one case where my memory and OCD tendencies helped me. Graduation was one of the most amazing days of my life. But, my most amazing day was when my now husband proposed. Every little girl dreams of being Cinderella someday, and he pulled off the proposal of fantasies.

At the risk of sounding cliché, I'm going to let it out there and say how much I absolutely adore the man I'm married to. Along with my children, he's my whole world.

I've lived in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia, but I've had my feet in almost every state. Traveling is something I adore, and have plans to someday see the Mongolia I've written about in Yassa.

One of my favorite things is hearing from fans! You can find me on social media most any day of the week. Connect! I'd love to hear from you.

Author Links:

Website: http://WriteJoMichaels.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/WriteJoMichaels

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WriteJoMichaels

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/WriteJoMichaels

Instagram: http://instagram.com/WriteJoMichaels

Blog: http://jomichaels.blogspot.com

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2rkgBSZ

Radio: http://blogtalkradio.com/ADailyCupofJo

“What is with all this glittery stuff?” Evie’s frustration grew as she slapped at another rack of sparkly outfits.

“Duh. It’s nearly Christmas. Everything’s gonna have some kind of glitz happening.” Shana plopped on the couch and threw herself backward, draping her forearm over her face. “You’re killing me. It’s a good thing you’re my best friend, or I would’ve traded you in a long time ago.”

“Shut. Up.” Grabbing a scarf, Evie chucked it at her friend’s head. “You know you love me.”

A grin bloomed on her over-glossed lips. “I do, but that doesn’t mean you’re not being a brat right now. Why don’t we just go to the freaking swimsuit store? You know they’ll have something beachy.”

“Have you seen their prices?”

“Yeah, but it’s not like your family is hurting for cash. What does it matter?” She sat up and threw the scarf back on the rack. It hit the metal, paused for a second, and slowly slid to the floor.

Evie bent over to pick it up and hang it properly as she answered, “Ever wonder why we’re not destitute? My parents are super frugal.”

“You guys are the definition of yuppies.”

With a sigh, she shrugged and waved her hand. “Fine. Let’s go to the swimsuit store.”

They stopped off at the coffee shop for a couple of lattes on the way. One of the baristas took the girls’ orders, and they moved to the end of the counter to wait while he fixed their drinks.

“Girl, he was eying you hard,” Shana said.

Evie turned back to look at the guy again, and she couldn’t stop the quirk of her lip when she saw him glance up, turn red, and go back to what he was doing. He was cute in a boy-band kind of way. His blond hair curled at the ends and was just long enough to graze the tops of thick eyebrows over honey brown eyes. She turned away when he looked at her again, and she grinned at Shana.

“I told you so.”

“And?”

“He’s fine as hell. If you don’t get his number, I’m going to.” Putting her hand on her hip, she pursed her lips and widened her eyes.

“No, you’re not, and neither am I. We have stuff to do.”

Author F.P. Spirit shares the inspiration behind the Heroes of Ravenford Series

Meet Autumn Mattison, Protagonist in Dickensen Academy by Christine Grabowski

Welcome to the virtual book tour for Dickensen Academy by Christne Grabowski! Today's stop is one of my favorite kinds of guest posts, as the author interviews Autumn Mattison, the main character in her book. Please enjoy this and then follow the rest of the tour for even more fun! Remember to leave your own comments or questions for Autumn or for Christine and then enter the giveaway!

Dickensen Academy

Dickensen Academy isn’t a typical boarding school. The faculty is hiding an unbelievable secret within their fine arts program. When Autumn Mattison receives an invitation to attend the high school, she yearns to escape her overbearing father yet remains reluctant to leave her mother and brother. Her doubts fade away when a vivid dream convinces her she belongs there.

Away from home, Autumn discovers a unique school environment that awakens her creative potential, and her new friends become like a second family. However, as she uncovers more about the dark side of the school and struggles with its curriculum, she questions whether Dickensen Academy is truly where she belongs.

When tragedy strikes, Autumn must learn to believe in her own power and stand up to her greatest fear or risk having her memories destroyed to protect the school’s secrets. Caught between secrets and dreams, can she find her true self?

Read an excerpt:

“I feel like there’s something big we don’t know about. Something those students were protecting. I mean, really, why are we here?”

I thought it was just me who was confused. “Well…the recruiters said we’re creative and focused.”

“Yeah, that’s what Principal Locke said too.”

“And we have the right personality.”

Ben looked up at the sky, sighed then turned toward the forest. “What did he say…something about how it will soon become clear why we’re here, and there’s some ultimate purpose for our creativity?”

“I know. That whole creativity part was a bit bizarre.”

He shrugged. “It seems everyone is going with the flow. But I have so many questions.” Then he touched my arm to stop me, so I turned toward him. “I’m thinking they’re isolating us for some special reason,” he admitted in an embarrassed tone.

I tried not to laugh—he was acting paranoid. But I didn’t know Ben well. Maybe he was joking, trying to freak me out. Or was he hitting on me? The flutter in my chest moved to my stomach. I was already anxious about being away from home and whether or not I could hack the academics. I didn’t need to obsess about anything else. But I still had to know about Ben’s dream.

“So…I also had a dream about Dickensen before I accepted the offer.”

Ben’s head snapped toward me. “You did?”

Buy Links:

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Google Play / Kobo / The Wild Rose Press

Meet Autumn Mattison

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Autumn Mattison. I’m from Seattle, and I just started my freshman year of high school at Dickensen Academy. I’m fourteen years old, but will turn fifteen in November.

Why did you choose to attend Dickensen Academy?

Who wouldn’t? Almost no one gets into the place, so when I got in, it shocked us all. And it made my dad so proud. It’s got this great writing program, which I’m really excited about. And the art classes sound fun too. Besides, I’ve got to admit, it was great to move out of the house. My dad is a control freak and sometimes I feel like I can barely breathe around him.

What do you like about boarding school so far?

It’s so amazing to be off on my own. I’ve only been here a couple of weeks, and I’ve already got four really good friends. My roommate, Aditi, is so sweet. And then there’s Hannah, this girl I run cross country with. Ben and Ryan usually hang out with us too.

What about the classes?

I’m really liking school so far. The classes are small, and the teachers are super-passionate, especially Mr. Robbins. He teaches Creative Core which is this art class that is supposed to be the backbone of the fine arts program. To me, it just seems like an art class. But the faculty says it’s much more than that.

Anything you don’t like?

Well…there’s something weird about this place that sometimes gives me the creeps. It’s almost like I’ve been here before. I keep having these déjà vu moments. But it’s probably all my imagination. My dad would say I have too much of that. But there are also all these rules. Like freshmen can’t leave campus until Thanksgiving, and we can’t hang out with the upperclassmen. There’s even this huge electric fence hidden in the woods. It feels like we are locked in. But the teachers say it’s because up here in the mountains there are lots of wild animals. But it seems overkill to me.

Do you have any goals for the year?

I’m hoping to get good grades. I don’t think my dad believes I can hack it on my own, but I want to prove him wrong. No way will I ever do as well as my brother, Josh. But hopefully I can do well enough to get my dad off my back.

Anything you’d like to add?

Well, there’s this guy, Ben. He’s really cute. We hang out a lot, but usually in a group. Aditi thinks he likes me. He even dreamed about me before we got in. Weird, right? But I doubt he’s interested in me. I’m sure he’ll end up with someone more like Hannah, who is model gorgeous.

About Christine Grabowski

Dickensen Academy is Christine’s debut YA novel. After graduating from the University of Washington, she earned her MBA at the University at Albany. She honed her technical writing skills in marketing and consulting but attributes the creative part of the process to her passion for reading.

When she isn’t reading or writing, Christine can often be found running, skiing, or hiking. She lives in Newcastle, Washington, with her supportive husband, two avid teen readers, and their energetic wheaten terriers.

https://www.christinegrabowski.com/

https://facebook.com/christinegrabowskiauthor

https://twitter.com/christinegrabo

Christine Grabowski will be awarding $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

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Longevity: The Wardens of Time by Caleb Smith with Giveaway

Welcome to the blast for Longevity: The Wardens of Time by Caleb Smith! This one is for fans of urban fantasy. Please enjoy an excerpt before you download your own copy. As always, leave comments and questions for the author as you make your way across the tour. And there are two giveaways to enter!

Please note that affiliate links are present within this post. Should you make a purchase through one, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Longevity: The Wardens of Time

Noah Thomas is a scrawny seventh grader who is bullied to the brink in his new town. Friendless, except for sassy tomboy Wendy Sherman, who seems to lend him the confidence he needs to stand up to his oppressors. Upon stumbling into a bookshop one afternoon while on the run from some teenaged tyrants, Noah is hurled into an unexplainable adventure. Noah learns that the bookshop does, in fact, lead to the Akashic Records – a place that holds all spirit lives recorded in tablets of light. With this new found knowledge, Noah begins to grow in wisdom and confidence to face his fears. His biggest challenge comes in the form of five demonic spirits that he accidentally lets loose from a lost tablet. Will Noah succeed with the help of his guardian angel cat he calls Keeper, or will all Hell's henchman prevail?

"A spiritual thriller that skillfully celebrates determination and self-discipline - Kirkus Reviews "

Read an excerpt:

Elijah was busy containing the damned and all the energies he could catch, holding them tightly until their essence spontaneously combusted into cosmic dust as the window shattered. The night wind howled angrily. With the wave of his hand, Elijah repaired the window to its normal state, and Enoch found the metal sleeve to lock this lost Akashic tablet, sliding both book and key into his deep pocket. Elijah then moved to Noah’s aid, ignoring the result of the mayhem that had occurred in this room. He cradled Noah’s head and lifted his torso. Noah awakened to the sight of the two pillars of heaven towering over him and shining light into his peepers. He was not as shocked as he should have been. He quickly remembered what he had done, and then Elijah set him on his feet to stand. He wished he was more surprised to see them, but he knew full well the reason for their visit.

Available as ebook or in print

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Black Rose Writing

About Caleb Smith

Caleb Smith an author from Bangor Maine, holds a passion for nature, spiritual study, family, poetry, art, strength training and golf. Honesty, simplicity and a hard work ethic are the best things that shape his day.

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calebsmithauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/calebsmith

Enter the Goodreads giveaway here.

Caleb Smith will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

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The Storm in Our Chests by Enrique Betancourt

Welcome to the blast for The Storm in Our Chests, an adventure of love, friendship, and self-discovery, by Enrique Betancourt! I'm sharing an excerpt with you today to enjoy prior to downloading your own copy. Follow the tour to read other excerpts and to leave comments and questions for the author along the way. Be sure to also enter the giveaway!

Please note that affiliate links are present within this post. Should you make a purchase through one, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

The Storm in Our Chests

After being separated abruptly, best friends Benj and Élan reunite after five years. They are not children anymore, and teenage and experience changed them.

Benj used to be an isolated antisocial child, now he’s popular and outgoing, leaving for college in the following year.

Élan used to be chipper, now he’s sad and insecure after years of being tossed around the foster system and realizing he is gay, crushing on a boy he thinks is unattainable.

Their reunion proves to be a challenge as they are the polar opposites of how they knew each other, the journey to healing and proves to be tough. Bonding again may be the only thing that saves them. Through small moments and swift dramatic turns, Benj and Élan will have to prove they are more than friends - they are buddies, and the epitome of unconditional love.

Purchase Links:

Barnes & Noble (Nook) * Amazon (Kindle) * Apple Books / iTunes *  Kobo

About Enrique Betancourt

I am the published writer of a novel called THE IMAGINARIUM OF THE INNOCENT by Austin Macauley Publishers, and also I have been awarded the Rosa Maria Porrúa Award for my Spanish-language novella SOBRE LAS CENIZAS. My books stand out for their literacy excellence that got me an award, and the dramatic and emotional way I handle my characters. I am Mexican who lived 6 years in the United States, I love to read, to write and music is such a powerful inspiring force for me.


Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7370307.Enrique_A_Betancourt

Twitter: https://twitter.com/enribetan

Enrique Betancourt will be awarding a $10 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review of the Fate & Fortune Series by Robin Daniels



On Tour with Prism Book Tours Welcome to the book tour for the Fate and Fortune series by Robin Daniels! This duo was some of the most fun reading I've had in a while, so I'm already telling you that you need to download your own copies to also enjoy. But you can read more of my thoughts in the individual reviews below. And I have an excerpt for you over at Andi's Book Reviews. Be sure to also follow the tour to get more reviews and some insights into the books, like exclusive excerpts and more. Plus there's a giveaway!
Please note that affiliate links are present in this post. Should you make a purchase through one, I may earn a small commission to help support my websites at no additional cost to you. I also received complimentary copies of each book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Fate & Fortune

(Fate & Fortune #1)
By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 279 Pages

September 20th 2018

Bryce has liked Paige since they were little but has never had the guts to act on his feelings. Paige is devastated over being dumped by her long-time boyfriend and can’t seem to move on. They’re stuck in a rut, until fate decides to pull them out.

Both Paige and Bryce are talked into seeing a fortune teller at the annual Summer’s End Carnival. Neither of them buys into the mysticism, until the psychic’s predictions start coming true. Now, the most bizarre things are happening and there isn’t a clear explanation. Each of them must figure out if they’re the subject of an elaborate hoax or a bigger plan forged by destiny.

*This book is part one of two. Books should be read sequentially.

Goodreads│Amazon

**My thoughts**

Oh, the magic and romance that goes on in this book! Have you ever felt just completely destined to be with somebody? And it's like everything works out to make the stars align for it to work out between the two of you? I don't care if these kids are seniors in high school. The stars are aligning for Paige and Bryce to finally succumb to the crushes they've had on each other since they were little kids, and finally become a couple. 

What starts out as a joke to get back at Paige's ex feels so real to them both. And they keep getting these little nudges a la fortunes that surely must mean that they are meant to make it work out for real between the two of them, if they can just let go of their insecurities and go for the sure thing. You want to them to make it work and cheer every step along the way. Paige and Bryce are just clearly meant to be together. 

The story is told from each of their points-of-view, giving you great insight into their innermost thoughts. I really like both of the characters. They just felt real to me, which doesn't always happen. I loved all of their friends, actually, and wish I could go back in time to be their age again and hang out with that crew. They're so close-knit and so good to each other, no matter what happens. I just loved it. And they aren't stuck-up, overly sexed, and all kinds of other more negative traits that you sometimes find in YA books. They reminded me of my "nonbiological kids" (my friends' kids) who are about the same age and are just a lot of fun. I really want there to be a lot more books featuring this crew, to see what else they can get themselves into. Plus there are all kinds of other budding storylines being alluded to in this book that could provide fodder for some time to come.

Kismet & Karma

(Fate & Fortune #2)
By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 184 Pages

October 25th 2018

Bryce and Paige belong together, but they’ll never make it happen alone. When inspiration strikes in multiple ways, a friend decides it can’t be a coincidence; it’s a call to action. With a little luck, the help of fate, and the matchmaking plan of the century, Bryce and Paige just might get their happy ending.

You heard Paige and Bryce's version of the story in Fate & Fortune. Now join Eric, Amy, Cody, Kennedy and Genie to see how things really went down.

***This book completes the series. Book one can be read as a standalone, but book two cannot. Fate & Fortune should be read first.***

Goodreads│Amazon

**My thoughts**

Argh! I had such mixed emotions when I started this book. You definitely need to read the first book before you read this one, otherwise it doesn't make any sense. At first I felt like I was losing some of the magic that I felt in the first book. But then it quickly won me over. I wanted to know more about Paige and Bryce's friends. So I got to know Kennedy, Eric, Amy, Cody, and Genie a bit better. There were some relationships and happenings in the first book that you knew had more to the story, but weren't as relevant from Paige and Bryce's points-of-view. Those questions are answered in this one. Plus there are all kinds of other shenanigans and fun in this one. Again, I just love all of these kids and totally would have loved hanging out with them back in high school. And I still feel like even more could be written about them in some other books.

What I love the most is their complete dedication to each other. Their friendships lifelong and go so much deeper than a lot of other more superficial friendships that you often see in the teen and high school years. There's nothing better than good friends who will be by your side through thick and thin and who will do just about anything to make you happy. Sure, they also reaped some selfish benefits from their scheme, but the end product and the greater good was well worth it. Karma works out the way that it should and there's still plenty of magic in the air.

This series is so much fun to read and I am so glad that I had the opportunity to do so. And I hope we hear more from them in the future.

About the Author

The most important thing to know about me is that I'm basically a sixteen-year-old trapped in an adult's body. It's why I feel such a great connection to all of my characters and why I love to write romantic comedy. The kid in me just wants to be goofy. Besides being a writer; I'm a wife, mother of five, volleyball enthusiast and home decorating guru. My list of favorites includes: reading, Christmas, pedicures, dessert, steak, Arizona winters and most importantly, Diet Coke.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│
Instagram│Amazon│Newsletter

Tour Schedule

November 5th:
Launch
Heidi Reads...
Mythical Books
November 6th:
Becky on Books
Rockin' Book Reviews
Christen Krumm, Writer
November 7th:
Among the Reads
Dani Reviews Things
November 8th:
Harlie's Books
Colorimetry
November 9th:
Singing Librarian Books
Getting Your Read On
November 12th:
Katie's Clean Book Collection
Wishful Endings
November 13th:
Sarah Jane Lamb
Seasons of Humility
November 14th:
Paulette's Papers
Andi's Young Adult Books
Andi's Book Reviews
November 15th:
Mel's Shelves
Kathryn Cooper Writes
Rainy Day Reviews
November 16th:
Teatime and Books
Ghoulish Life & Reviews
A Backwards Story
Remembrancy
November 17th:
Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card

Open internationally
Ends November 21, 2018

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Meet Enrique Rosado, Author of Shore

Shore is a new YA contemporary fantasy by Enrique Rosado. He took some time out of his regular writing schedule to spend some time writing out answers to a bunch of interview questions about this book. So please enjoy and then download your copy of the book. It's on sale for 99 cents through 11/16! And of course, there's a great giveaway at the end, with five winners!

***************************

What kind of research did you have to do for this book?

The research was tricky at points. One was reallocating myself with the beach. My father has always loved the ocean. When we lived in Puerto Rico, we would always go to the beach, and he even went as far as sighing my brother and me up for classes the second he could (which was YOUNG to me) 

The other is how surgeries are done. Let's say there is a scene where some “magical medical science” is applied. Even though its magic, I wanted to make sure it sounded plausible, to an extent.

Which character was your favorite to write?

Oh, this is a good one. It’s a toss-up between Lahar and Void. Lahar is the protagonist of the story, and I tried to create a change she must go through in her journey back home and constantly challenge her. Void, on the other hand, is the “villain” who doesn’t see himself as that. He was the most fun to write.
With Lahar, I got to push her to her limits and, where Void I had fun creating his layers that readers would want to try to peel back.

To which character did you relate the most?

Man, I didn’t think this would be the question to stump me. I try to put a bit of me in every character I write. Well the more I think about it, the more I come back to Lahar. She has this hunger to better herself. A want to stand on her own and not to be reliant on anyone but become that person people can rely on in her own way.

What was one of your favorite scenes?

I don’t know if this is cheating because its technically three chapters, but I see it as one scene. I won't give too much away, but it’s a moment where Lahar must confront the problems she feels responsible for all alone. During this scene, she is pushed to do something she never thought she would have to do and that will leave an impact that will be felt throughout the story. Plus, we a chapter I still remember writing today because it ended up being my favorite. I'll say the three names of the chapters so those who read it will get where I mean. “Deeper You Go” “Lullaby for a Puppet” and “Flight or Fight?”

Will we see these characters again?

Definitely, let's say you won't have to wait long for the sequel.

What do you hope people will get out of your book? How do you make yourself stand out in this genre?

Entertainment. Of course, want the readers to peel back the layers, symbols, themes and more I painstakingly put in this book, but at the end still say, "that was cool." 

What makes myself different in the genre is what I choose to focus on. Many stories in my genre want to tell a grand epic, showing the world with vast history and world ending problems where the balance of all good and evil rely on this person. In no way am I saying that’s bad. Many stories I love are written like this, but I choose to pinpoint character and focus on the characters.

This book isn't on the fate of a nation or the world, but about a woman wanting to go back home. I want the characters to have problems that feel real. Fear of inadequacy, they want to teach someone new and make a friend, the haunting sensation of being watched. 

I feel what connects us all to the stories we love are the people. A communal feeling, it is the same feeling that drives us to talk to the people we care about. I like to think I use fantasy elements and adventures not to dress up these interactions or to add flair, but to emphasizes the connection with the character and maybe with the people around us or just to ourselves. In a way, I want to tell small stories in a big way.

What are you currently reading? Up next on your TBR?

It’s called “The Other One” by Hasanthinka Sirisena. It’s a fantastic collection of short stories either set in Sri Lanka and America. Each one is powerful with some going to the dark places in humanity and even showing some light in those dark areas.

When not writing, what can we find you doing?

Is it cliché to say I’m always writing? I know it is but it’s true, I write a collection of short stories I post on my blog (erosado.com/blog) and on Tapas ( https://tapas.io/series/Internet-24) with more novels and other projects on the way. If not that I’m either cooking something new. I love to try to prepare meals from scratch. I also get on my ps4 to play Overwatch or whatever my brother and friends want to do. Currently, it’s the new Call of Duty Zombies. Lastly, I explore New York City as I just recently moved here.

Shore

by Enrique Rosado
Genre: YA Contemporary Fantasy
Release date: November 2017

Summary:

Lahar’s life was regular- college, work, then binge watch whatever was in her queue. That was until she woke up in a new land. She meets a young wizard named Arena, who has made a home on the beach. With the help of his massive dog and mystical creatures called wisps, she must find a way back home while she fights the forces of a monster who lives among them. Join this Fantasy adventure, with new creatures to see and adventures to be had.

"4.5/5 Stars ... a truly quirky and unique read that will be a new favorite for fantasy lovers." - San Francisco Book Review 

"A parade of whimsical elements reminiscent of early, dreamlike video games" - Kirkus Review

Add to Goodreads

The kindle edition is on sale for only $0.99 through November 16th. If you have Kindle Unlimited you will be able to read the book free anytime you want! 

Buy on Amazon!

About Enrique Rosado

I'm Enrique Rosado, a Puerto Rican who grew up on the island for a bit before landing in Killeen, Texas, a town that cultivated me and made me who I am today. Now I find myself in New York City writing any chance I get.

Social links:
Website: erosado.com
Instagram: @thisonefellow

GIVEAWAY: 

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Read an excerpt from Illusions by Madeline J. Reynolds with Giveaway

Welcome to the blog tour for Illusions by Madeline J. Reynolds! I have an excerpt for you today to entice you to download your own copy. If you follow the tour, you'll see more excerpts, book reviews, and other fun. Please remember to also enter the giveaway!

Illusions

by Madeline J. Reynolds

Genre: YA Fantasy/Historical Victorian
Release Date: November 6th 2018
Entangled Teen

Summary:

Dear Thomas,

I know you're angry. It's true, I was sent to expose your mentor as a fraud illusionist, and instead I have put your secret in jeopardy. I fear I have even put your life in jeopardy. For that I can only beg your forgiveness. I've fallen for you. You know I have. And I never wanted to create a rift between us, but if it means protecting you from those who wish you dead—I'll do it. I'll do anything to keep you safe, whatever the sacrifice. Please forgive me for all I've done and what I'm about to do next. I promise, it's one magic trick no one will ever see coming.

Love,
Saverio

Purchase links available HERE!

Read an excerpt:

I feel dreadful for what I am about to write, but being that this journal is meant for no eyes but my own… I shall confess, part of me wished that his bones truly had broken after his fall. It is terrible for me to wish injury upon the man, truly. But my dread in anticipation of this performance far outweighs any guilt plaguing my dark thoughts. 

Mother and Father have retired to their bedroom for the night, so I shall get in some more practice. I was contemplating using a vase as my subject once again, but with the risk of having it fall to the floor and shatter, it would be best to use a small candle.

There are two scenarios:

One, I fail like I did in rehearsal today and make a fool of Neville.

Or two, even worse…I succeed.

I have to at least try to get this down. There is no reasoning with the man, and surely, if my secret does not kill me, he will.

About Madeline J. Reynolds

Madeline J. Reynolds is a YA fantasy author living in Chicago. Originally from Minneapolis, she has a background in journalism and has always loved storytelling in its various forms. When not writing, she can be found exploring the city, eating Thai food, or lost in an epic Lord of the Rings marathon.

Author Links:
Website│Goodreads│Twitter

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YA Bound Book Tours

Willow Bloom and the Dream Keepers by E.V. Farrell

Welcome to the book blast for Willow Bloom and the Dream Keepers, a new YA fantasy from E.V. Farell. Please enjoy an excerpt and then download your own copy. Follow the tour to leave comments and questions for the author along the way, and then be sure to enter the giveaway at each stop!

Please note that affiliate links are present within this post. Should you make a purchase through one, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Willow Bloom and the Dream Keepers

Willow Bloom’s biggest challenge is to organise her thirteenth birthday party. However, a walk in the woods near her home provides some big surprises – a mystical guardian from another world, a magical forest, and the discovery that her parents are part of a secret order that protects dreams. With the discovery comes a calling. A prophecy tells of a young one who can push back the dark forces that threaten to corrupt our hopes and dreams. Is Willow that young one? Can she take on the forces of evil, the Underlord Maliceius, and win?

Book Links

Amazon / Amazon UK / Kobo
on sale for 99 cents during the tour!

Read an excerpt:

Willow swallowed uncomfortably at the unexpected sadness in her mother’s words. She held back a few moments. “Mum,” she said softly, “why hasn’t there been a Light Keeper in our family for so long? And what exactly is a Light Keeper?”

Her mother didn’t answer straight away; there was a faraway look in her eyes.

“Those are big questions, Willow, that require big answers.”

Audrey slowly tucked her hair behind her ears then crossed her arms on the table.

“There haven’t been many Light Keepers anywhere for over a century and there are very good reasons as to why, and we will tell you. But just not right now – not all at once. And why I haven’t been Awakened – well, I wasn’t chosen. Simple as that.”

She lowered her eyes.

Willow stared at her mother. She wanted to say something but felt completely lost for words. So she had been chosen and her mother not? Why?

About E.V. Farrell

E.V. Farrell lives in rural Victoria with her husband and two sons. This is her first novel.

http://www.hooklinebooks.com/young-adult-novels.php

Twitter @ev_farrell

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/evfarrell/

E.V. Farrell will be awarding the use of the winner's name in the sequel to Willow Bloom and the Dream Keepers to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

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Meet Krysten Lindsay Hager, author of Can Dreams Come True?

Welcome to the book tour for Can Dreams Come True? by Krysten Lindsay Hager. Get to know her and the book a little bit better with this exclusive interview. I also had the opportunity to read the book, so I've included my honest review. Be sure to ask leave her more questions and comments and then follow the tour for more insights. There's also a giveaway to check out!

Please note that affiliate links are present within this post. Should you make a purchase through one, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I also received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

What was the inspiration behind this book?

I wanted to take a normal high school girl and give her the opportunity to have a chance to experience the life she’s dreamed about to see if it was what she truly wanted. I had her get to be in her favorite singer’s music video (she’s always wanted to act) and then get to know and date him. I thought it would be interesting seeing what it was like to date your ultimate crush.

What kind of research did you have to do for it?

I read a ton of music biographies and autobiographies and watch a lot of music biographies and documentaries. I wanted a wide range of experiences so I had everyone from Taylor Swift to Kurt Cobain, Elvis, Ed Sheeran, George Michael, Marvin Gaye, and more.

Which character was your favorite to write?

Lila, the best friend, was actually the most fun to write because she reminded me of how my best friend and I talk.

To which character did you relate the most?

In the beginning I assumed I’d relate to Cecily the most, but as I was writing it I also related to Lila and Andrew. I didn’t expect to relate to the pop star character so much, but as the story went on and I realized this was going to be a series, I saw him differently.

What was one of your favorite scenes?

I love the scene where Cecily is on a date with Andrew and she doesn’t want him to know what a big fan she is of his, but it’s on her mind and she slips up a few times. She’ll be with him as he tells her something and she’s thinking, “I know.” It cracked me up every time. I also loved writing the music video scenes—especially behind the scenes where she and Andrew get to know each other.

Will we see these characters again?

Yes, I just finished writing the sequel to the book!

Why should we read your book?

So many of the reviewers have said the book makes the whole dating the pop star thing feel like it could really happen, so if you like books that help you escape into that fantasy then this is the book for you!

What do you hope people will get out of your book?

I hope they find some escapism and also see the sweet relationship and the fact that Andrew’s pop star life isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be. There’s a nice sense of family and friendship in the book, too, and I think it’s a comfort read.

How do you make yourself stand out in this genre?

I use a lot of humor, which you don’t always find in YA romances. My characters are funny and very real.

Tell us about your other published works.

I have a funny YA book called, Dating the It Guy, about a teen who goes out with the popular senator’s son and what’s it’s like to suddenly be in a different social group in high school. I also have a YA beach book series (Next Door to a Star and Competing with the Star), about a girl who moves to a beach town and finds herself living next door to a teen TV star. I also write a middle school series called the Landry’s True Colors Series dealing with friends, frenemies, and first crushes.

On what are you currently working?

I just finished the sequel to Can Dreams Come True and I’m also working on some adult books and another YA book.

What is the best writing advice you ever received?

To take as many classes and go to as many conferences and workshops as you can before you start writing and submitting your work.

What are you currently reading? Up next on your TBR?

I just finished Save Me, Kurt Cobain, and I read a lot of the current event books you see on the news. I’m also in mysteries.

When not writing, what can we find you doing?

I’m a TV addict. I love movies, too. I’ve been re-watching the show Psych a lot lately.

What is something on your bucket list you have accomplished? Want to accomplish?

I always wanted to be on Book Notes and I got to do that this year and read part of Dating the It Guy. You can see it here: https://www.facebook.com/TheOhioChannel/videos/vl.150830042416493/2134241629925807/?type=1

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Can Dreams Come True?

Cecily has always had a huge crush on singer Andrew Holiday and she wants to be an actress, so she tags along when her friend auditions for his new video. However, the director isn’t looking for an actress, but rather the girl next door—and so is Andrew. Cecily gets a part in the video and all of Andrew’s attention on the set. Her friend begins to see red and Cecily’s boyfriend is seeing green—as in major jealousy. A misunderstanding leaves Cecily and her boyfriend on the outs and Andrew hopes to pick up the pieces as he’s looking for someone more stable in his life than the models he’s dated. Soon Cecily begins to realize Andrew understands her more than her small-town boyfriend—but can her perfect love match really be her favorite rock star?

Read an excerpt:

I started to feel anxious after lunch. After all, I had been an Andrew fan for a long time, and even though I had seen him in person, this was a huge deal to get to meet him. What if he wasn’t what I had imagined? I didn’t expect him to fawn over me or anything, but what if he was rude or ignored me? It would kill my fantasy of him as being this sweet, quiet, sensitive songwriter who wore his heart on his sleeve while also being kind of a loner/rebel with just a touch of bad boy in him. Oh man, I would be crushed if he didn’t notice me or worse—if he ended up flirting with Harlow.

In all his magazine interviews Andrew always said looks weren’t important to him, and what he noticed in a girl was if she was true to herself. He said he went for “bright girls who were sweet and easy to be with.” Now that I thought about it, that was the kind of fake crap magazines put out about all the teen celebrities. It was like when I saw Lawrence Claibourne, my favorite actor who claimed to be Mr. I’m-just-looking-for-a-sweetgirl-to-read-poetry-to on a red carpet with a model whose boobs were falling out of her dress and had overdone the lip fillers—I mean, you just knew he wasn’t into her for her personality. But Andrew wasn’t like Lawrence. Andrew seemed so sincere and deep. Lawrence had a smirk and you could tell he was a player, but Andrew seemed like he had been hurt and needed to find the right girl who he could open up to and learn to trust again. . .or at least that’s what he said in his last interview.

The final bell rang and my heart shot up to my throat. This was it. I was on my way to meet my crush. From now on, any dreams of him would be marred by the reality I was about to face.

Was it better to keep wondering what if and keep the fantasy alive or to go and actually meet him?

Buy links:

Amazon US * Amazon UK * Amazon IN * Amazon Germany * Amazon Canada * Amazon AUS * Barnes and Noble

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**My thoughts**

I was first intrigued by the idea of this story, because the idea of being love with a celebrity and dreaming of making him my own is a fantasy that I think most of us have had for a long time. And that magical moment when you finally get to meet your idol is one that you can never replace. I've done that before. But it actually turning into a romantic encounter? Sure, I've read a lot of rock star romances, but never one at the YA level. So of course, I had to give this one a go.

I feel sorry for Cecily at first. She does have some confidence in there, but it is currently pushed way down with her introverted tendencies. You can see it hovering just under the surface. I think her boyfriend Zach is a tool who is too hung up on his ex-girlfriend, always comparing Cecily to Tanna, though he definitely has a lot on his plate at home. Other people are always comparing Cecily to Tanna. And I may just have a Tanna thing leftover from my own high school days.

Her friend Harlow is also annoying. I can't stand those girls who think they are greater than everyone else and belittle everyone around them. Her other friends seem to like to rip on her for her interests and choices in life. Poor Cecily just wants to fit in for the most part and allows people to pretty much walk all over her, but is slowly starting to hold onto her personal beliefs.

But then when she goes to the audition with Harlow to be in Andrew Holiday's new video, merely as moral support, and ends up being chose by Andrew himself to be in the video because of who she truly is, things begin to change for her. She learns how to be comfortable in her own skin and what it means to truly have a connection with another person on a deeper level than the usual superficial level. She has so much more maturity than the other girls in her life, which helps explain why this massive rock star pays attention to her.

I think more readers will identify with Cecily's struggles as an introverted teenager trying to make her way in this world than they think they will. I think that Andrew in indicative of what a lot of girls want in their boyfriend, even when you take out the celebrity status. He is real with depth and emotions and maturity, which is what makes for a better relationship in the long run as it is.

I appreciate how this is a clean romance and just felt more realistic than a lot of other YA romances, even though Cecily is doing the unthinkable in starting a relationship with her favorite singer. I understand there is a sequel to the book and I look forward to checking it out.

About Krysten Lindsay Hager

Krysten Lindsay Hager writes about friendship, self-esteem, fitting in, frenemies, crushes, fame, first loves, and values. She is the author of True Colors, Best Friends...Forever?, Next Door to a Star, Landry in Like, Competing with the Star, Dating the It Guy, and Can Dreams Come True? True Colors, won the Readers Favorite award for best preteen book and the Dayton Book Expo Bestseller Award for children/teens. Competing with the Star is a Readers' Favorite Book Award Finalist.

Krysten's work has been featured in USA Today, The Flint Journal, the Grand Haven Tribune, the Beavercreek Current, the Bellbrook Times, Springfield News-Sun, Grand Blanc View, Dayton Daily News and on the talk show Living Dayton.

WEBSITE: http://www.krystenlindsay.com/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/krystenlindsay/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/KrystenLindsay

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/KrystenLindsayHagerAuthor

PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/krystenlindsay/

AMAZON BIO: https://www.amazon.com/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/e/B00L2JC9P2/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1518310668&sr=8-1

Krysten Lindsay Hager will be awarding a $10 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

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