November 27, 2013 by Tina Williams

A Handful of Blossoms, by Lara Biyuts

An Unorthodox Marriage – Historical Literary Fiction

Contains paranormal elements

A Handful of Blossoms is a beautifully written, original and engaging work. The novel is not a standard romance book, although it contains significant reflection on the nature of love. It is also one of the most character driven and literary books that I have read in a long time.

It is written in the form of a diary, kept by Constance, a young European princess who in 1764, a year after the Seven Year’s War, has just joined in a dynastic marriage with a European Prince, Constantine, who is much older than her. He is a man who she finds worldly, intellectual and somewhat alluring, but a man who soon makes it clear that he has no interest in requiring her to fulfil her wifely duties as he prefers the favours of men.

Constance soon finds that she is banished from the main dwelling, a gothic like castle, to a small adjacent mansion, in which she is kept company by her maid and a cook. Her life revolves around trying to come to terms with her strange marriage, immersing herself in nature and the rich local folklore and attending the occasional audience with Constantine where the development of their unorthodox relationship drives the plot forward. Constantine maintains an all male household where he is free to indulge his sexuality, although there are no explicit homosexual love making scenes, much being left to the reader’s imagination. The novel does contain reference to one non consensual scene of a sexual nature, but this does not in itself directly involve Constance or Constantine in the act.

There are many references to tales of European folklore, recounted by various characters, and these are recorded by Constance in her diary alongside accounts of daily events and her emotional reaction to them. She also records her relationship with members of Constantine’s household, notably his steward. In addition, there is a mysterious man from Constantine’s past, who has a major part to play in the development of the plot which contains a number of paranormal and gothic inspired scenes, which are recounted in vivid detail. The ending is pendent.

I found myself having much sympathy with the heroine, who finds herself in the position of being both attracted to and repelled by her husband. She is attracted to his persona and intellect, yet is disgusted by some of the actions that others attribute to him and is oftentimes upset by his attitude to her on account of her being a woman. She is a strong character despite her youth. Constantine is a fascinating character, not least due to his esoteric and intellectual interests, and I felt some degree of sympathy with him in that he felt compelled to enter into the dynastic marriage, despite his sexual preferences. However, I was not always convinced that he had his wife’s best interests at heart.

The language used in the novel is lush and intricate and reminded me of a rich tapestry which the viewer needs to take time to savour to appreciate fully. The descriptions of the natural environment are truly beautiful. I found the novel whimsical, literary and full of allegorical tales and narrations, at times it is almost didactic in style as the heroine learns the lessons life presents her with. Here is a quote which is indicative of the tone and content of the novel:

Misty morning outside the window. The shades of rosy and blue are wet with dew. The air is filled with silent stillness. Senses awake……….. I muse about the indifference of beautiful things and their perfection.”

I was completely drawn into the world described in the tale and recommend it to readers who like to explore the nature of love in all its forms, intellectual and esoteric pursuits and society’s expectations. The novel will also appeal to those who enjoy reading about paranormal events and European pagan folklore. The author’s latest novel, Silver Thread Spinner, also contains a paranormal character who appears in this novel.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of the novel was provided by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Self-published at Smashwords.com

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/168036

amazon.com/author/larabiyuts

https://www.facebook.com/bijucie.lara

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/lara-biyuts/3a/870/bb2

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3207603.Lara_Biyuts

Lara Biyuts – Author Bio

Translator and writer, living in Russia, I write in English. A self-published author of 8 books of fiction, 2 books of essays and 2 books of poetry.

“Every kingdom has three pillars: Poet, Sword and Law.” (Lara Biyuts)

November 23, 2013 by Tina Williams

Tina’s Autumn Harvest of Reads

A Selection of Books from my ‘To Read Pile’

Like all other avid readers I have oodles of books on my ‘to read pile.’ I have winkled out just some of them to share them with you. I hope to read some of them over the coming months, now the temperature has dropped and the nights are longer.

Of course I’m always pleased to consider any requests for reviews in addition to the books on this list, as this is a great way to find out about new authors and genres!

As the list is a bit of a smorgasbord I’ve put the books into a number of categories. Click on the book title to take you to the Goodreads or Smashwords link. Also look out for our update post later this week in which we list the books that we plan to review in the next few weeks.

Tina 🙂

Contemporary

Wild Water, by Jan Ruth – WINNER of the Cornerstones Literary Consultancy ‘Most Popular Book’ Competition 2011. Also listed in the 2013 eFestival of Words Award Nominations. The story of forty-something estate agent Jack, stressed out by life and the feeling that he and his wife are growing apart. What happens when he discovers that she is having an affair and is pregnant? At the same time he becomes reacquainted with his childhood sweetheart, Anna…….

Captured. My Sworn Enemy, My Secret Lover, books 1 and 2, by Eve Rabi – Sargent Megan Saunders is captured by Islamic militants, held as a slave and forced to deliver inflammatory speeches against the US. During an escape attempt she is raped. Her rapist Reed, insists she proceeds with the pregnancy. Megan is already married and due to her inflammatory speeches, she is now regarded as a terrorist. She finds herself drawn to Reed and before long they enter into a relationship which is far beyond sexual and which has massive repercussions.

Historical

Love’s Revenge, by Monica Burns – When Quentin Blackwell, Earl of Devlyn, discovered the woman he loved was carrying another man’s child, he refused to marry her. In retaliation her father ruined Devlyn. When Sophie Hamilton, the man’s eldest daughter, makes him an offer, he seizes the chance for vengeance. Yet this could cost him what he wants the most, Sophie’s love. On the shelf at forty-one, Sophie accepts her fate until she impulsively makes a rash proposal to escape a life of servitude and right a wrong at the same time. She never expected Devlyn to accept her rash proposal and to fall in love with a younger man. Rating: Contains graphic sexual content, adult situations, and explicit language.

Disciplining the Duchess, by Annabel Joseph – The bookish Harmony Barrett has repelled every gentleman of consequence and caused a debacle so horrifying that her waltzing privileges are revoked. Through a vexing series of events, the Duke of Courtland finds himself shackled to Miss Barrett. But all is not lost. The duke harbors a not-so-secret affinity for spanking and discipline and his new wife is ever in need of it. Will the mismatched couple find happiness? Or will the duke be forever be Disciplining the Duchess? An adult read.

Daughter of the Sky, by Michelle Deiner – The sole survivor of a shipwreck, 15 year-old Elizabeth Jones is taken in by the Zulus. Six years later, she becomes useful as a spy to find out why the Victorian Empire appears about to attack. Her disguise as a soldier is uncovered by Captain Jack Burdell, who believes her tale of searching for a missing brother and he shields her. But as they explore their mutual attraction, the armies move closer and Elizabeth is torn between the guilt of betrayal and her loyalty to her Zulu family. When the battle commences she and Jack are caught in the crossfire.

Ragnar The Murderer (Ragnar the Dane #1), Lily Byrne – In East Anglia under the Danelaw, half breed Dane, Ragnar, tries to fit in but feels like an outcast. When he meets the English Aelfwyn they begin a passionate affair, but she is promised to another and forbidden to consort with Danes. When her betrothed is murdered, Ragnar is the obvious suspect. Is he guilty or just a pawn?

Fantasy

Taken to the Ebon Court, Elena Han – When a half-demon general conquers Irizel’s homeland, he claims her, drawn by her beauty and bloodline. Upon discovering she’s a healer, he forces her to accompany him to the Ebon Court–a nest of political intrigue and carnal decadence–so that she might heal his hybrid infertility, demanding that she must bear his child… An erotic dark fantasy romance. Adult read.

The Ritual (Theft and Sorcery #1), by Erica Dakin – For Chiarin, a young half-elf thief, life is about survival as she is considered an outcast and every day could bring her death. She meets a master thief Zashter, who unexpectedly takes her on as his pupil, and draws her into a dangerous adventure gathering powerful magical items for a sinister employer. What purpose these items will serve Chiarin does not know, but it soon becomes apparent that Zashter should not be trusted. Yet amutual attraction grows and there is no going back…..

Rowena through the Wall, by Melodie Campbell – Rowena falls through her classroom wall and lands in an alternate world. Her adventures include being kidnapped, gathering unwanted husbands and falling for the wrong brother. Can she return through the wall? Warning: This book is not a ‘sweet’ romance – it is a sexy, funny, rollicking adventure with a spunky heroine and the medieval ‘men’ of her dreams!

Sci-Fi

Promises to Keep (Gaian Stories #1) , by Janet Miller- In the future, with Earth near barren and men willing to commit to marriage almost non-existent, a group of young women leave to find husbands in the Outer Colonies. En route they’re hijacked by men from a rebel planet called Gaia. Gaian men can only make love to a woman they match and Dr. Sarah Johnson is the match for the most hated Gaian of all, General Garran Doranth…….

Historical Western

Love and Betrayal on the Santa Fe, Lisa Day – In 1859 Calico Benson, a gentle bred woman wanting the security of marriage and family, answered an ad in the “Matrimonial News,” where men were advertising for wives. Along with five other women, she sets out on the Santa Fe Trail hoping to find love. Instead they found a hellish nightmare journey. Will their dreams be fulfilled or lost?

November 22, 2013 by Tina Williams

New Release, Marsh Island #1 of The Hirebomber Series, by Oliver F. Chase

Release of First Instalment of Exciting New Mystery/Thriller Series!

Oliver F. Chase is a veteran Marine with a career in the FBI, whose mystery/thriller book, MARSH ISLAND (AEC Stellar Publishing Inc., November 22, 2013), is the first installment of The Hirebomber Series.

After a crushing injury, Army Ranger Phil Pfeifer is left for dead in the mountains of Iran only days before the start of the Gulf War. America cannot reveal such a violation of national sovereignty mere days before Kuwait is invaded. The body may heal but the heart takes longer.

Seeking a new life as a private investigator, Phil is hired to find a wayward husband who’s become enraptured with stars and predicting the future. A simple case and the midlife crazies stop when a boat captain is murdered at his feet and the Mafia chases him through the backstreets of Las Vegas. Pleading with Phil to continue, the terminally ill wife sends him into the tropics to face death, sharks, miles of open ocean, and prison.

Here’s what others are saying about it:

SHANNON A. THOMPSON, Award-winning author of the Young Adult Paranormal Romance, Minutes Before Sunset:

“What an absolute thrill. The mystery left me unable to guess what would happen next, and the prose was both delightful and haunting. Oliver F. Chase created a troubling beauty, even in the desert landscape, and the stars were as bright as the storyline. A great read for fans of detective fiction, suspenseful mystery, and thrillers.”

RANDOLPH PLOTTS, Avid reader of thriller books:

“The characters seemed real and knowable, and there was a wide variety of them. The author has a knack for description, not only for people but also for locations and situations! The book was a page-turner. I wanted to read just one more chapter before putting it down.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Oliver graduated high school and wanted to be able to fly, which was really all he ever wanted. The war was on and the Marines offered a way. He took it. Some five years later, Oliver was a vet with a Distinguished Flying Cross and a long list of combat missions – even a couple in that dark, secret world of political deniability. Oliver spent five years in a police department working narcotics and SWAT, and the next 22 in the FBI. He and his wife live on a small farm along the Gulf Coast near New Orleans.

Marsh Island by Oliver F. Chase

AEC Stellar Publishing Inc. – ISBN: 0989312801

Price: $13.79 – ISBN-13: 978-0989312806 – Pages: 328, Paperback, 8.3 x 5.8

Pub Date: November 2013

Media Contact Heather Hebert

November 21, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Christine S. Feldman’s ‘Pastels & Jingle Bells’ novella – blurb & info

Are you ready to begin the festive season? I have been Christmas shopping, watching Christmas movies, looking forward to putting up our Christmas tree next week and……..

………. I have finished reading my first seasonal novella, Pastels & Jingle Bells (a Heavenly Bites novella #1), by Christine S. Feldman! Check out the blurb below for this beautiful seasonal contemporary romance (review to follow shortly in December):-

Trish Ackerly never expected to cross paths with Ian Rafferty again, but when she spots the former bully of her childhood years through her bakery window, she thinks she may just have been given the best Christmas gift ever: the opportunity to finally give Ian the comeuppance he deserves.

But clearly she does not have a knack for this whole revenge thing, because before she can make good on her plans, Trish gets inadvertently drawn into Ian’s life in an unexpected way that lets her see just how different the man is from the boy he used to be. In fact, much to her astonishment, she actually starts to like the guy.

A lot.

Trouble is, Ian doesn’t know who she really is, and explaining it to him is going to be a little difficult now—which is bad news, because Trish is starting to realize that all she really wants for Christmas this year…is Ian.

Like the sound of Pastels & Jingle Bells? I can assure you it is a lovely, short read that can easily fit into your busy shopping schedule.

You can check it out at Goodreads, Barnes and Noble, Amazon UK (77p) and Amazon US ($1.23). Please note that prices are correct at the time of posting but may be subject to change.

My review will be posted in December as we begin the run-up to Christmas. Enjoy!

Happy reading,

Caroline 🙂

November 20, 2013 by Tina Williams

Her Savage Scot, by Christina Phillips: Cover Reveal!

See the Cover, Find out about the Series, Read an Extract and Try Your Luck in the Giveaway!

Her Savage Scot, the first book in Christina Phillips’ new Highland Warrior Chronicles is released today and we are delighted to be participating in the cover reveal tour – scroll down to find out more, see the scrummy cover, read a hot excerpt and Christina’s bio. Readers are also able to take part in a Tour Wide Rafflecopter competition in conjunction with Allison Butler who writes Scottish medieval romances for Penguin Australia to win some super prizes (details at the end of this post).

I adored Christina’s last erotic romance series, Forbidden, which brought sexy Romans and Celts to life and I am looking forward to her foray into 9th century Scotland!

The Highland Warrior Chronicles

From the Kingdom of Dal Riada, Scots warriors Connor MacKenzie, Cameron MacNeil and Ewan MacKinnon pledge to keep the peace in the wild Highlands of Pictland. But each man is destined to fall in love with a Pictish princess – three cousins who are determined to save their beloved land from the savage invaders. Instead they lose their hearts to their wild foreign warriors.

Book 1 ~ Her Savage Scot

Book 2 ~ Her Vengeful Scot

Book 3 ~ Her Defiant Scot

The Cover

Read Chapter One of Her Savage Scot

ISBN: 9781419940446

Release date: 20th November 2013

Ellora’s Cave Amazon ARe Nook Amazon UK Kobo

Goodreads

Blurb for Her Savage Scot (scroll further for fuller excerpt)

When tough Scot warrior Connor MacKenzie rides into the barbaric lands of the Picts on a mission for his king, he never expects to be captivated by a beautiful Pictish widow. Drawn under her spell, yet unaware of her true identity, he risks everything for one passionate night in her arms.

Aila, princess of Pictland, swore long ago she would do anything within her power to help defeat the Vikings who invaded her land and murdered her husband. But after meeting Connor, her frozen heart thaws and once again she imagines a future filled with love and passion.

When Connor delivers the message from his king, Aila becomes a pawn in a deadly game of politics. Her heart belongs to Connor, but she must marry the prince of Dal Riada – Connor’s half-brother. But the fates have other plans for the star-crossed lovers as they fight their enemies and themselves to find true love.

A Romantica® historical erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave.

Read An Excerpt From Her Savage Scot………

“She speared her fingers through his luxuriant hair as he nibbled kisses along the column of her throat. Once again he rolled onto her, his heavy body pinning her into the furs. But this time she savored the sensation of his shoulder against hers, the rigid planes of his chest crushing her breasts. And the way his thigh angled over hers, brushing so close to her damp sex.

His hand clasped her other shoulder, and his teasing lips followed. His roughened jaw scraped the swell of her breast and she stirred restlessly, fingers digging ruthlessly into his scalp.

He gave a silent laugh and his hot breath caressed her tender flesh. “I’m trying to slow things down. Do you wish me to ravish you like a beast?”

“No.” She raked her fingernails across the back of his shoulders and he reared above her, his black hair disheveled, his eyes glinting in the flickering glow of the torches. Awareness tingled across her skin as she gazed up at him and slowly she dragged her nails along his straining biceps.

Such leashed power.

The knowledge thrilled her. Connor MacKenzie, savage Scot from Dal Riada, was naked in her arms and battling his desire to take her like a primitive barbarian.”

About Author Christina Phillips

Christina loves writing dark tales set in the 9th century featuring tough Highland warriors who are brought to their knees by their brave Pictish princesses.

She is published by Ellora’s Cave and Berkley Heat and has dipped her toe in the indie pub waters. She is a member of the Romance Writers of Australia, Romance Writers of America, the DarkSide Down Under Group Blog and Historical Hearts Group Blog.

Christina is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in sunny Western Australia with her family. She is also owned by three gorgeous cats who are convinced the universe revolves around their needs. They are not wrong.

Connect with Christina:

Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads Blog

Tour Wide Giveaway Details

For details of the giveaway click here for the link to Christina Phillips’ site where you can enter via Rafflecopter. The prizes are truly awesome for the lucky winners, so why not have a go?

INTERNATIONAL GIVEAWAY!

1st Prize:

E-Copy of The Border Laird’s Bride by Allison Butler

$10 Amazon Gift Card

Signed Swag ~ Bookmarks, Postcards & Fridge Magnets from Christina Phillips and Allison Butler

2nd Prize

E-Copy of Tainted by Christina Phillips

Signed Swag ~ Bookmarks, Postcards & Fridge Magnets from Christina Phillips and Allison Butler

3rd Prize

E-Copy of Betrayed by Christina Phillips

Signed Swag ~ Bookmarks, Postcards & Fridge Magnets from Christina Phillips and Allison Butler

Good luck to all who enter.

Tina 🙂

November 19, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Roping Love (short story) by Tamara Hoffa plus author bio

Roping Love is an adult heart-warming western romance with a sense of erotica.

Cowboy Chance sure did rope and reel Carrie in a decade earlier but can he do it again? She fell for him and gave herself to him, and yet he left her feeling abandoned. Chance didn’t pick up or return Carrie’s calls, making her feel like a used fool. Carrie never completely understood what happened between them and had to carry on with her life by throwing everything she had into her horses. She bred them and trained them. They were her life.

However, after keeping away from the Showmanships and the All American Quarter Horse Congress all of this time, it was Carrie’s nephew, Tyler, who encouraged her to take him and go to the Congress. After reluctantly agreeing, and thinking it now unlikely that she would see Chance, it just so happened that she unknowingly walked straight back into his life. Angry, hurt and destroyed she wanted nothing to do with him.

It is so easy for the reader to sympathise with Carrie and fight her corner all the way. On the other hand, Chance is hot and all he wants is an opportunity to explain. So what do you say, guys? Should Carrie hear him out or leave him out?

The tragedy is that although he had his reasons for not continuing their relationship they both paid for it in their own ways. Now they are given another chance but will it happen this time round?

When it comes to attention to detail Tamara Hoffa is fantastic. Although a little ignorant of horse-rearing/showing myself Tamara does explain this subject in detail. For me, there was slightly too much description in this area as I prefer a little more action and dialogue but if you love a descriptive style of writing you’ll feel the complete setting and enjoy every second of this heartfelt story.

Although a very short story there is enough time for the drama to build and the reader to get to know the characters. Tamara Hoffa goes out to all lengths to ensure that the eroticism is hot, sensual and pulse-raising. The tension and momentum are perfect and reels the reader in. Maybe I am a little greedy as I was hoping for another saucy scene later on and was a little disappointed when that wasn’t to be.

Roping Love is extremely short and could have offered a little more if made into a full length novel with possible sub plots including Chance’s brother, Chase. However, I did enjoy this little tale and would like to read more of Tamara Hoffa’s work.

TAMARA HOFFA – BIO

Tamara Hoffa lives in central Tennessee, with her husband of 30 years, her three grown children, two grandchildren, 5 dogs and 1 cat. Tamara started reading when she was four years old and has rarely been seen without a book at hand since. At home you will usually find her in “nana’s chair” with her kindle, her laptop or one of her precious, precocious grandson’s in her lap. Tamara is a reviewer, a professional reader and can now add author to her repertoire. Tamara is proof positive that it’s never too late to reach for your dreams.

Contact Links:

Buy links:

Secret Cravings Publishing

Bookstrand

Roping Love was received gratefully from the author, Tamara Hoffa, for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

November 17, 2013 by Tina Williams

The One Knight Collection, by Samantha Holt

Indulge your Fantasies Knight after Knight….

In The One Knight Collection Samantha Holt has let her imagination run riot in four sensual tales, ideal to read between the sheets, in which many a reader will find at least one of their fantasies take flight! The lovemaking scenes in this author’s books are typically on the hot side but in this collection they positively sizzle. 🙂

The collection comprises four medieval tales: One Knight; Black Knight; White Knight and Highland Knight, all addressing the theme of, if you had one night to prove your love…could you? If you enjoy sensual tales involving scrummy alpha males that quickly get very up close and personal with the heroines you will definitely enjoy this collection! Those familiar with Samantha Holt’s work will lap this up and for other readers it is a great introduction to her work.

In One Knight, bride and bridegroom Katerina and Guy are both uneasy at their wedding feast. Katerina sees Guy as stern and indifferent and wonders why he has elected to marry her. For his part Guy sees his new bride as aloof. Can Guy overcome Katerina’s icy reserve and convince her that he is far from immune to her charms? – you bet her can and the characters and the reader have great fun in finding out how!

In Highland Knight, Anna Mackenzie and warrior Niall Sinclair become betrothed, a union designed to unite two embattled clans. Anna resolves that she will be no easy conquest for her bitter enemy whom she despises and Niall, although attracted to Anna, is used to women falling for his charms. Can they both put their pride aside and find love together? The couple only find resolution when they find themselves in a situation where they can explore and learn about each other more intimately……

In Black Knight, Lady Katherine tells her childhood sweetheart James that she is bored and craves danger and excitement. Upon retiring alone for the night to her chambers it seems that someone has been listening…. as she is apprehended by an unknown assailant, a masterful warrior and seduced in the dark. This was my favourite tale in the collection and this says a lot about my own fantasies – LOL!

In White Knight, Sara escapes her family’s home in the dead of night to avoid her coming nuptials to a man she does not know and has never met. Almost as soon as she has left the keep she is abducted by an unknown and mounted warrior. Who is this man who is determined to see her to safety, yet equally determined to make her his?

Samantha Holt’s The One Knight Collection is full of alpha males and women who are an exquisite combination of innocence and passion who come together in scenes which entertain, tease and delight the senses. Each couple is as unique as the lovemaking scenes which awaken them to each other and the author is creative in her choice of locations and the methods they employ in their unions! These tales may be short, but each are brimming with sexual tension and sensual scenes where the hero of each tale rises to the occasion to convince his lady of his worth and love.

I recommed The One Knight Collection to readers who enjoy sensual and romantic tales featuring alpha males and heroines who are not afraid to explore their passionate side!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Purchase links:

Amazon UK Amazon US

Find and connect with Samantha:

https://www.facebook.com/romanticfiction

http://www.samanthaholt.org.uk/

http://www.samanthaholtauthor.blogspot.co.uk/

November 16, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Coming soon: DEMONICA by Will Davis

Due for release in two weeks time, 1st December 2013, author Will Davis will be releasing his new novel, a horrifying modern-day fairytale , ‘Demonica‘!

Demonica will be published by Hashtag Books. Hashtag Books is a new publishing company established by author Tim O’Rourke, Lynda O’Rourke and Peter Buckman (who sold the movie rights for ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ amongst many other accolades spanning 50 years in the TV, Movie and publishing industry).

Tim O’Rourke: “This is one great read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished the book!”

I will certainly be reviewing this one very, very soon. In the meantime, check out the blurb below and add to your to-read lists:-

When spoilt eighteen year old Miranda suffers a terrible accident she survives, but her face is hideously scarred.

Unable to bear what has happened to her, she locks herself away. Her only companions are Veronica, her cruel and beautiful mother, and Nelly, the sympathetic housekeeper.

As time passes Veronica inflicts cruelty after cruelty on her disfigured daughter. Lonely and filled with despair, Miranda is astonished when Bernard, Veronica’s handsome younger boyfriend, takes an interest in her circumstances.

For Bernard believes there is an operation that can restore Miranda’s face. But it will involve committing an unspeakable crime. A decision that will haunt her for the rest of her life…

In the tradition of Angela Carter and Daphne du Maurier, Demonica is a terrifying modern fairy tale.

Will Davis is already published by Bloomsbury and a prize winning author for his debut novel ‘My Side of The Story’.

Happy reading, guys!

Caroline 🙂

November 14, 2013 by Tina Williams

PODS (Book #1), by Michelle Pickett, BOOK TOUR, REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY!

Today we are hosting Michelle Pickett’s book tour of her Amazon bestselling Young Adult Science Fiction/Dystopian novel PODS. Read on for a book synopsis, my review and to find out more about the author. Residents of the US can also enter the Rafflecopter giveaway to win 1 signed copy of PODs and some Swag! Details below. Tina 🙂

Synopsis

Seventeen-year-old Eva is a chosen one. Chosen to live, while others meet a swift and painful death from an incurable virus so lethal, a person is dead within days of symptoms emerging. In the POD system, a series of underground habitats built by the government, she waits with the other chosen for the deadly virus to claim those above. Separated from family and friends, it’s in the PODs she meets David. And while true love might not conquer all, it’s a balm for the broken soul.

After a year, scientists believe the population has died, and without living hosts, so has the virus. That’s the theory, anyway. But when the PODs are opened, survivors find the surface holds a vicious secret. The virus mutated, infecting those left top-side and creating… monsters.

Eva and David hide from the infected in the abandoned PODs. Together they try to build a life–a new beginning. But the infected follow and are relentless in their attacks. Leaving Eva and David to fight for survival, and pray for a cure.

My Review of PODs, by Michelle Pickett

Title: PODs

Author: Michelle K. Pickett

Genre: Science Fiction/Dystopia, Young Adult, Zombies, Romance

Published: June 4^th 2013 by Spencer Hill Press

Page Count: 312 pgs

Terrifying Future Tempered by Tender Romance!

PODS, by Michelle Pickett, offers readers a vision of the future which I found both realistic and terrifying. In the novel a deadly virus, which kills its victims within days and which has no known cure, has struck the Earth’s population. In the US the government holds a nationwide ‘raffle’, the winners being guaranteed apparent safety, alongside essential government personnel, scientists and military etc. in specially designed PODS deep underground. Meanwhile the virus wreaks havoc topside and the hope is that it will die out in the absence of remaining live hosts…. The tale centres on Eva, a 17 year old High School student. We witness how she, her family and others react to the news of the virus, the raffle, Eva’s guilt at being selected and the bittersweet realisation that once she enters the POD system she will never see her family or friends again.

Before going into the PODS Eva with the other ‘chosen’ spend two weeks in isolation in quarantine to ensure that their bodies harbour no nascent virus. Only then does she enter one of the many PODS, with other young men and women (for it is only the young and healthy who have been selected). All find it difficult to adjust to being separated from the life they knew and their loved ones and need to work together to remain sane under such claustrophobic and bizarre circumstances.

It is in the POD that Eva befriends David and it is not long before their mutual attraction turns into a budding romance, despite the difficulties of conducting a relationship with such a complete lack of privacy, not to mention misgivings such an attachment may not be a good idea, in case it turns sour. Ensconced in their POD, Eva and David struggle to contain their feelings and the other inhabitants all have their own dramas to cope with. Meanwhile both topside and within the PODS the virus has not yet had its fill….. When they are finally allowed back to the surface, after more than a year underground, the world and the rules which govern it have changed beyond recognition. Worse than that, the virus has mutated, creating terrifying Zombie like creatures and the battle for survival, whilst avoiding infection, is on……

I loved the the two main leads Eva and David. Both show themselves to be very level headed in a crisis and believe me there are many that they face! Their growing relationship is a delight to behold and there are many tender and bittersweet moments. The couple not only harbour a strong physical attraction to one another, but are also well suited in terms of their character. David is a real hottie who puts Eva’s welfare above his own and Eva is a strong and caring individual who is willing to fight for the safety of those she cares for and she wants to be with David whatever the cost. They and the other survivors have to put their youthful dreams behind them and adapt to survive, even when the actions they are compelled to take are far from palatable and heartbreaking at times.

Other characters in the novel were well drawn. My particular favourites whilst the scenes unfolded in the PODS were Jai Li and Tiffany. Once topside I liked the character of Devlin, who along with David protects others from the infected. There is plenty of tension in terms of characters who do not see eye to eye with others and the ever present government authorities who control life for those within the PODS and many areas topside, holding the destinies of many within their hands. The tale contains adventure, blood and gore, betrayal and self-sacrifice and plenty of romance. I found the tale a realistic portrayal of what could happen if such a fate ever befell humankind.

I recommend PODS to readers of Young Adult novels who like a thought provoking romance set within a future dystopian society. The second novel in the series, Infected, comes out this month. Read on for the buy links for PODS, how to enter the GIVEAWAY (open to US residents only) and to read about the author Michelle Pickett and her works.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of PODS was given to me by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review. The Book Tour is hosted by Making Connections Blog Tours

Buy Links for PODs:

Amazon ׀ Barnes&Noble ׀ Books-A-Million The Book Depository׀

Giveaway – open to US Residents only

Win 1 signed copy of PODs and some Swag!

Click on the following link to enter the giveaway for one signed copy of PODS and some SWAG! Good Luck to all who enter! 🙂

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6289a714/

Coming Next………………..

About the Author

I’m a wife, mother, author, reader, although not always in that order. I’ve been an avid reader since a young child. I began writing for personal enjoyment in college, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in accounting. Why I chose a degree that didn’t encourage creativity is a mystery to me. I’m addicted to Reese’s peanut butter cups and eat way too many while I write. I have a weird obsession with hoodies and can’t write without wearing one. I hate to cook, but love to watch cooking shows. I’m an unabashed romantic and love swoon-worthy happy endings that give me butterflies for days. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, I now reside in a small community outside Houston, Texas with my incredibly supportive, not to mention gorgeous, husband, three amazing school-aged children, a 125-pound lap dog, and a cat that thinks she’s queen. I write adult and young adult Sci/Fi, urban fantasy and paranormal romances. I love to hear from readers and other authors, so drop me a note and say “Hi!”

My work includes:

The Amazon Bestselling young adult novel “PODs”

Milayna, March 2014

Buy Links for Milayna:

Amazon ׀ Barnes&Noble ׀ The Book Depository

Milayna’s Angel (Milayna #2), September 2014

The Infected, a PODs novel, November 2014,

The Innocent (Milayna #3), April 2015.

I always love to hear from readers, bloggers and other authors!

Find me here:

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5448974.Michelle_K_Pickett

Blog – http://www.michelle-pickett.com/

Website – www.Michelle-Pickett.com

Email – Michelle@Michelle-Pickett.com

Twitter – https://twitter.com/michelle_kp

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MichellePickettAuthor

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Michelle-K.-Pickett/e/B008QWUA5O/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

Shelfari – http://www.shelfari.com/michellepickett

Pinterest – http://www.pinterest.com/michelleauthor/

Linkedin – http://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepickett

Add to your Goodreads Shelf – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13425802-pods

November 11, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Our latest blog update by Caroline

Hello readers, it has been about a month since our last update. I hope you have all enjoyed half term, Halloween and Guy Fawkes! It is now time when the nights are drawing in earlier and it is getting much colder. So just before, the Christmas hustle and bustle with all that shopping, snuggle up with a book! We’d love to hear what you are reading. In the meantime, here is what we have been reading:-

UNSCATHED by Tim O’Rourke and C.J. Pinard

Unscathed is a great collaboration of my two favourite authors. Whilst concentrating on a contemporary romance theme, it is not without its slight paranormal hint which ends with a deadly twist! This one is not to be missed by any romance or paranormal fans!

Speaking of my favourite authors, the following two reviews are their solo ventures.

I Dead Water (Kiera Hudson Series Two, #6) have reviewed Tim O’Rourke’s DEAD WATER (Keira Hudson, Series 2 Book 6)‘. In this fantasy paranormal half-breed Keira and her Vampyrus friends are to make their way to the Dead Water in search for their friends, Kayla and Sam? Will they make it? And if they do, will they find what they are looking for?

The recent release of C.J. Pinard’s paranormal/urban fantasy Enchanted Immortals novella, BSI: Bureau of Supernatural Investigation grabbed my attention, especially after having read the whole series to date. Here C.J. goes into the history of the BSI: it’s formation, it’s founders as well as the reasons for it’s existence. This novella is great to read either as an introduction to the series or as a follow-up. The bonus is that it can be read at anytime of the series and is currently FREE on Smashwords!

More recently, I have been indulging myself with an amusing chick-lit with Laura Barnard’s ‘The Debt & the Doormat’! This is a super read, one of the funniest books I have read with it’s Bridget Jones/Miranda style humour! You will be in for a treat. Especially as it is FREE on Smashwords and Amazon at the moment.

HALLOWEEN

During Halloween Tina examined the magical qualities of fairy rings, with some examples of their enduring mythology around the world and suggested some suitable paranormal reads for Halloween. Click here to find out more.

I also reviewed a suitable story for this time of year with a HALLOWEEN HORROR in Steve Vernon’s ‘Tatterdemon‘. The town of Crossfall is cursed some 300 years previous. After a victim of an abusive husband kills her other half and buries him in the field outside their home he is resurrected as a demon to fulfil the curse – to ultimately destroy the town of Crossfall! Certainly one to read under those blankets!!!

During the following few weeks my intentions are to review the short erotic romance, ‘Roping Love’ by Tamara Hoffa, Peter Kassan’s sci-fi/paranormal ‘Lightpoints‘ and a book full of humour by the DJ/Comedian Hogwild, ‘Baby, You’re as Sweet as 3.14159265’! I will also try to review Molly Ringwald’s contemporary chick-lit, ‘When it Happens to You’.

Pastels and Jingle Bells (Heavenly Bites Novellas, #1) For the beginning of December I also have a little festive treat with Christine S. Feldman’s ‘Pastels and Jingle Bells’ (a Heavenly Bites novella). This is a great seasonal kickstart with from the contemporary romance genre.

Tina’s Recent Reads and Posts – Click on the links to find out more

Bella’s Bethrothal, by Anne Stenhouse – Delightfully Engaging Sweet Regency Romance – an exciting and engrossing read, which gripped me from the first page. It has murder, attempted kidnap and evil intent, family secrets, malicious gossip and mayhem, plus much wit and humour and engaging characters, not least the hero and heroine, whose sweet romance is at the heart of the plot.

A Heartless Design, by Elizabeth Cole – Fast Paced and Oh So Sexy Regency Romantic Suspense! An absolute delight. It contains a Regency style James Bond and an unconventional lady of independent means in a raunchy and rambunctious read. It absolutely sizzles with passion and desire and houses secrets that threaten the very security of the country, peppered with danger and deceit.

K- Girls (#1 in the Kylemore Abbey Series, by Lydia Little – A Spirited Tale of Irish Boarding School Escapades – Readers of all ages who relish tales of high jinks and adventure with a paranormal twist will enjoy K-Girls. The read will be particularly nostalgic for those such as me who spent their youth in the 1980’s and enjoyed reading Enid Blyton’s St Clare’s and Malory Towers series.

Save Dschinannya – An Invitation from Author Birgit Kluger aka J. B. Brooklin – Read Demons Die Harder, #1 in the Creatures of Fire Series for FREE and Get Involved in #2 of the Series. In Demons Die Harder, she is a half demon, oblivious to her true nature. He is a demon set out to avenge murder. Together they are hunted by the one person she thought she could trust. Separate they may be able to save each others lives. Contribute to the Crowd Funding Project “Save Dschinnanya!” with only 1 USD … or more. In return supporters will receive lots of extras.

Author Spotlight: Beverly Ovalle and her new release Lightning Strike – An erotic romance, which includes magic, a sacred glen, and a special female out to convince its guardian to continue the protection given by his ancestors.

Joshua’s Tree, by N.W. Harris – A Wild Ride through a Future Earth! This Young Adult Sci-Fi Fantasy, is a great romp, with a fantastic kick ass heroine and an unlikely hero who is transported to the future. It is set in a strange landscape, with terrifying cannibalistic creatures and it contains intervention from on high and non-stop adventure. There is also a budding romance and a plot that involves both personal growth and self-sacrifice. First novel in a series.

Tina’s Next Reads

Tina’s next reads include Samantha Holt’s One Knight Collection of sensual tales and A Handful of Blossoms, by Lara Biyuts, an historical novel with a paranormal twist. She will also be reviewing PODs , a Young Adult Sci-Fi/Dystopian novel, by Michelle Pickett and participating in her Blog Tour:

One Knight Collection (Medieval Romance), Samantha Holt

A collection of sensual medieval short stories – comprises One Knight, Black Knight, White Knight and Highland Knight. If you had one night to prove your love…could you?

A Handful of Blossoms, Lara Biyuts, Historical/Paranormal

This is written in form of a diary, a genre popular in the 18th century and which resonates in our time of blogging, webdiaries and webjournals. The book, set in 1764, a year after the Seven Years War in Europe, tells the story of a young damsel and her weird and unconventional marriage. It also includes some paranormal elements.

PODs, Michelle Pickett, Young Adult Science Fiction/Dystopia Romance

Seventeen-year-old Eva is one of those chosen to live, others face a swift and painful death from an incurable virus. Eva waits in an underground POD system, with other chosen until the virus has claimed those above. In the PODs she meets David. After a year, scientists believe the population has died, and without living hosts, so has the virus. But when the PODs are opened, survivors find the surface holds a vicious secret. The virus mutated, infecting those left top-side and creating… monsters.

Lastly, I would just like to mention that on Wednesday 30th October A Reader’s Review Blog was 1 year old. Tina and myself would love to thank all of our followers, readers and authors for all of their support! We wouldn’t be here without you. Please keep on reading, keep on writing and keep on following! Any shares, ‘likes’ and/or tweets are very important to us. You can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.comAReadersReview and on Twitter @areadersreviewb.

THANK YOU 🙂

Caroline and Tina x