Fool For Books Giveaway Hop

Welcome to the Fool for Books Giveaway Hop hosted here on I Am A Reader, Not A Writer. A huge thanks to Belinda @ The Bookish Snob for helping co-host this hop and creating the awesome Fool For Books Graphic!

This Giveaway Hop is really quick just Friday, April 1st & Saturday, April 2nd.  There are over 200 blogs signed up to host a giveaway so I'm going to keep my giveaway simple so you can move on to the next blog.



Giveaway: $15 in Books

I'm offering a $15 Amazon gift card:


OR
Up to $15 in books from the Book Depository:


To enter this giveaway please follow this blog via Google Friends Connect and fill out the form below.
 
If you follow this blog another way: goodreads, twitter, facebook, networked blogs or via an email subscription you will get another (+1) extra entry for each way your follow.  Up to 5 extra entries.

Last day to enter is April 2nd at midnight.

To enter my giveaway simply fill out this form:




There are 200+ Blogs each signed up to host a giveaway.  All blogs should have a giveaway up by Friday morning so you may want to wait until then to start entering them.  If you come across a blog that does not have a giveaway posted by Friday morning please email me the blogs name & number on the linky list and I will remove them. toobusyreading(at)gmail.com

Blog Tour: Tens List: The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder + Giveaway

Welcome to Author Amy Holder!

Bio:

I was born and raised in Upstate New York, the home of the Finger Lakes Region, Kodak, snowpalooza winters, and the best grape pies you'll ever eat (thanks to the Grape Festival). The youngest of three, I established my place in my family as the "artsy" one early on.

My love of all things creative swiftly translated to an infatuation with books and the written word. Often dreaming of seeing my picture on the back of a book someday, I began writing and illustrating my own stories and poems at six years old, followed by my first chapter book written in third grade. I took up non-fiction writing by funneling the awkwardness of my middle school years into the safe confines of my locked diary. By high school, I was writing angst-ridden poetry that would be fully deserving of an Emo-rific award in today's time. Apart from my undergrad years, when I traded in fiction reading and writing for psychology books and papers written in APA style, creative writing has always been an essential part of my daily life.

Since graduating college with a degree in psychology and a minor in sociology, I've worked in the early education, social service, and freelance writing and design fields. After some career soul-searching, resulting in my desire to pursue my love of writing professionally, I've captured the writing dream I've had since childhood. Today, I reside in the Philadelphia area with my furry pets. No, I'm not a crazy cat lady... yes, I'm a huge animal lover.

http://www.amyholder.com/

Guest Post:

Top ten reasons to read The Lipstick Laws
1) For some laughs with a fun, light read.
2) To open dialogue about social issues, peer pressure, body image and/or bullying.
3) If you love makeovers, there are two of them in this book!
4) To fulfill revenge fantasies without hurting anyone or breaking the law.
5) For a deliciously dramatic teenage stew recipe.
6) To find out clever uses for Kleenex...and what to do when you run out.
7) If you've ever been bullied or have been the bully, you’ll be able to relate.
8) To learn some random new words that you won't find in the dictionary (not yet, at least).
9) For reassurance that teen angst and insecurities are things that most (if not all) adolescents deal with... you're not alone!
10) To find out what the Lipstick Laws are and what happens if you break them…

The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder:

At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is the queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Khan, and can ruin anyone's life with a snap of perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her. For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. April is so unpopular, kids don't even know she exists. But one lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity. But Britney's friendship comes with a high price tag. How much is April willing to pay?



Giveaway:
Leave a comment on this post to enter.
As part of the online blog tour for The Lipstick Laws through The Teen Book Scene Amy will be giving away a signed copy of her book at the end of each week of the tour (three copies total). Please comment on at least one tour post each week to be entered in the giveaway(s). You can increase your odds of winning a signed copy by commenting at several or all of the tour stops. Each comment per tour stop will equal one entry per week (up to seven entries per week). Thanks so much in advance for following the tour and commenting! :)

To increase your chance of winning visit the other tour stops and leave a comment on their posts:
http://theteenbookscene.weebly.com/the-lipstick-laws-tour-details.html

Book Giveaway & Author Interview - Brigitta of the White Forest by Danika Dinsmore

Welcome to Author Danika Dinsmore!

Bio:

Danika Dinsmore is a poet, filmmaker, educator… and accidental novelist. She has been working with children in a variety of settings for 20 years. While Executive Director of the Northwest SPokenword LAB, she co-created Washington State’s first youth poetry slam and developed a curriculum guide for teaching poetry in the schools. She also created the Seattle Poetry Festival’s Emerging Voice spokenword program for teens. After moving to British Columbia she turned her attention to film, television, and new media, writing, producing, and directing numerous short films as well as showrunning an educational broadcast TV series. She has worked as an artist-in-the-schools and media literary educator for Learning Through the Arts and has taught writing courses at Vancouver Film School, Capilano University, and Creative Writing for Children. She accidentally became a novelist when she adapted an original feature film script into her first book: the middle-grade fantasy adventure Brigitta of the White Forest. The accidental novel accidentally became a series and the second one (The Ruins of Noe) is due out in Spring 2012.

Her awards include the Washington State Poets Association award for Performance Poetry and the “Best Fresh Voice” Screenwriting Award from the Female Eye Film Festival. Her poetry compilations include Every Day Angels and Other Near Death Experiences, Her Red Book, and All Over the Road (CD). She lives in Vancouver, B.C. with her husband and their spoiled cat Victor Gato.

Interview:

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
Coffee.

Night owl, or early bird?
My default mode is Night Owl, but I've been practicing being an early bird for the past few years. I've discovered that I like writing first thing in the morning. And I love that feeling of being up before life had kicked in.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
I think it will surprise people, actually, by how developed the world is and by how the story unfolds.

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects?
I'm working on the second and third books in the series a bit simultaneously to make sure everything lines up properly. The Ruins of Noe is Brigitta's next grand adventure and Ondelle of Grioth is a prequel that takes place years before Brigitta was born. I keep changing my mind as to whether the series will have five books or seven. I've outlined seven, but might write the first five and move on to something else. I hate to sound so trendy, but I'm also working on a young adult dystopian novel called Islands of the Moon.

What inspired you to want to become a writer?
Great writing I could fall into over and over again. The magic of it all - that I could become so emotionally invested, so moved, by a story or poem. That ideas appear out of nowhere and take on a life of their own. The beauty of language. The miracle of language. The playground of it.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
I think it's about to happen. My book tour starts March 12 and I've been looking forward to it for months. I think that's going to be an entire month of rewards. Other than that, I'm still amazed whenever a complete stranger buys my book and reads it.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Write for you, write what you want, and write for the love of writing. That has to be your reward because it's a tough way to make a living.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?
For sure. I think there are little pieces of me all over the place. As a teenager I always felt a bit like an outsider, the way Brigitta does. I've felt called to do something that I wasn't confident I was up to. There's a bit of me in both Auntie Ferna and High Priestess Ondelle as well. I don't see how anyone could not find themselves in their stories somewhere.

What's the craziest writing idea you've had?
The "craziest" writing idea has actually been going on for the past 13 years. Since 1993, a shifting menagerie of poets has been getting up every night at 3:15 AM during the month of August to write. I started this experiment with poet Bernadette Mayer after doing my master's thesis on her work and it's been going on ever since. I honestly can't not do the experiment each year, although I have had to figure out ways to wake myself up without waking up my husband.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?
Don't quit before the miracle happens. That was from Fred Jameson (Aka Beaver Chief), a spiritual mentor and friend who passed away about 10 years ago.

What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year?
How about book to movie? I work in the film industry as well, so I understand the challenge of adaptation. It's difficult to satisfy fans of books, myself included. That said, I'm really looking forward to The Hunger Games and Water for Elephants. Two very different books that I couldn't put down.

What was your favorite children's book?
It's so hard for me to pick favourites of anything... when I was a kid I adored The Phantom Tollbooth, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, and Harriet the Spy. I even had a spy notebook and spy route. As an adult, I think The Miraculous Journey of Edward Toulane is one of the most beautiful children's books ever. I can't read it without crying.

What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?
So you Think You Can Dance. My guilty pleasure.

Finish the sentence- one book I wish I had written is....
The Time Traveler's Wife. I thought it was a painfully beautiful and perfect story.

Favorite places to travel?
I love to travel in general. Invite me anywhere and I'll go, especially if I can travel by train or ferry or bicycle. I like greenery and water and mountains, so the islands here in B.C. are terrific. But I like cities as as well! I've been to London, Paris, Prague, Madrid, Athens, Amsterdam, Budapest, Vienna, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore. . . I'd love to go to South America. And my mom lives in Hawaii, so I have to go see her on a regular basis. Did I mention that I love to travel?

Brigitta of the White Forest:
Brigitta is a young Water Faerie from the village-nest of Tiragarrow. She’s anxious about going through The Change, as she doesn’t see how destiny markings on her wings should determine her life’s path.

A few days before the annual Festival of the Elements, Brigitta is flying an errand with her tag-a-long sister when a mysterious curse turns everyone in the White Forest to stone, except for the two of them. They have no idea why they were not cursed, but they do know if they don’t turn everyone back in time for the festival rituals, the Hourglass of Protection will run out and so will its protective field around the forest.

With no one in their forest left to help them, they must leave the protected realm to seek an exiled faerie they have only heard about in ancient tales.



Giveaway Details:
1 copy of Brigitta of the White Forest
Open to US & Canada
Ends 4/26

Optional Extra Entry:
+1 Like Brigitta of the White Forest on Facebook

Book Giveaway & Author Interview - Called Home by Gloria Schumann

Welcome to Author Gloria Schumann!

Bio:

Gloria Schumann loves reading romance novels, which brought her to a love of writing them. Her keen observation of the human condition is one of her favorite pastimes. A highly developed interest in relationships and what makes them work, are central in her writing. Gloria resides in Austin, TX with her husband and three children.

http://gloriaschumann.yolasite.com/

Interview:

If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?
Back to the past. I don't want to know my future. If you knew what is going to happen it would take away the incentive for working at certain aspects of your life. I'd rather go back and be able to better understand why some things happened or why some people are exactly who they are.

If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?
An eReader with as many books as it can hold, a margarita machine with an endless supply of ingredients & a phone that works. After awhile with the first two, I might decide to use the last.

What is one book everyone should read?
The bible. I can't rightly think of anything else that is a must read for everyone.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose?
I know this is going to sound corny, but I would like the power to demonstrate so effectively that all kinds of love—brotherly love, parental love, love of friends, passionate love, companionable love—is worth whatever sacrifice one thinks it is, that they freely choose to love without restraint.

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
Peanut butter and chocolate. I like both flavors separately, but together just takes it to the next level for me.

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
Fried eggs and coffee. I like to start my day with fuel for writing, promoting, meeting people and researching. I definitely drag without a decent breakfast.

Night owl, or early bird?
Night owl for sure. I have children that I have to get up with and take to school, but left to my own devices, I gravitate toward one or two for a natural bedtime.

Skittles or M&Ms?
No contest. M&Ms. It's chocolate, need I say more?

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
You'll find yourself entertained by a look at love unsolicited, yet there it is, unwilling to relent and demanding attention.

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects?
I've just finished a sequel to "Called Home". As of now, it's titled, "Twisted Tree". It's the story of a woman who gets thrown into raising an eight year old girl. Through the process, she is forced to learn life lessons and sort through family secrets. All the while, she attempts to ignore her burgeoning feelings for a famous artist that has settled in the same small town in Wisconsin.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
Those moments when a reader has told me, not only do they like the book, but that I should definitely keep writing. As a newbie author, this stokes the fire, adding to the passion I have for writing.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?
Funny you used those words, I was still saying to people, not that long ago, that, "I still don't know what I want to do when I 'grow up'". I believe I've found that now. I absolutely love writing and have stopped asking that question, now that I'm middle-aged with three teenage children. Life is interesting.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?
Sure, pieces of them. Writing is extremely subjective. You write what you like, what you know, what you've experienced, what you'd like to happen and even if it's something you feel you don't have firsthand knowledge of, you write it colored by everything you've been through and each person who's touched your life.

You have won one million dollars what is the first thing that you would buy?
A laptop. Believe it or not, I still do not have one. I have to compete with my three kids for computer time when they're home. I don't often pull the, "This is work" statement out on them, but occasionally.

What's your favorite season/weather?
I dream of Fall ever since I moved south. I live in Austin, TX, which I absolutely love, but I miss the cool, crisp nights, the clear, bright days, filling the sky with flame-like color.

Who or what inspired you to become an author?
My love of reading morphed into a love of writing. I thought I'd give it a try and wrote a "practice" book. I told myself ahead of time, that if it was like dragging a horse or just awful, I would drop the idea with no one the wiser. After I wrote several chapters, I showed it to a few trusted people with strict instructions to give me the truth. I was assured that I should keep going. With the practice project finished, I embarked on the journey of writing "Called Home-Two Hearts Answer" and was privileged enough to have Savant Books and Publications publish it.

Called Home: Two Hearts Answer:

Emma Benson's view of life was crafted by the death of her brother as a child, abandonment by her father and later, the man she trusted she would marry, until David Schlosser-back in town after years in New York writing best-selling novels-threatens her neatly tended life. Romance blooms. Emma and David eventually persevere in the face of tragedy, refusing to leave their dreams behind.






Giveaway Details
1 copy of Called Home
Open to US only
Ends 4/26

Optional Extra Entry:
+1 Like Gloria on Facebook

Giveaway Winner: Letters From Home

Congratulations to the Winner of
Letters From Home



The winner was selected using Random.org
Jordan Sims

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from me. Thanks to all who entered.

Blog Tour: Book Review - Slippery Willie's Stupid, Ugly Shoes by Larry Peterson

Slippery Willie Synopsis:
Willie Wiggles hates his slippery feet. He just slips, slides and spins all over the place. But what he hates even more are the special shoes that have been made for him that will help him to walk just like all the other kids. Willie thinks that they are the "stupidest, ugliest shoes in the whole world."

Discover how sometimes we worry about things about ourselves when actually there is nothing to worry about in the first place.

Review:
2 important lessons are taught in the short picture book.  It's not nice to make fun of others who are different and sometimes we worry too much what others will think.

I admit about half way through I wasn't sure about this book.  I was feeling pretty bad for poor Willie and wondering where the author was going with the story.  It wrapped up in a way that made a great story to teach children about differences and how we treat others.  This book would be useful in a classroom setting especially one with children who have disabilities.






Book web site:
http://www.slipperywillie.com/

Larry Peterson Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/larrytpbx

Tribute Books website:
http://www.tribute-books.com/

Tribute Books Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbald-PA/Tribute-Books/171628704176

Tribute Books Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks

Buy links:
http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#children8

Excerpt:
http://www.freado.com/read/9129/slippery-willies-stupid-ugly-shoes

Looking for readers to share their thoughts about accepting differences at:
http://slipperywillie.blogspot.com/2011/01/share-your-thoughts-about-accepting.html

Book Review: Growing Up Gracie by Maggie Flechner

As the fifth of six kids, it's sometimes hard for Gracie Fremont to see what makes her special. But with the help of friends, family, and her faith, Gracie discovers that even the most ordinary girl can do extraordinary things. Told with sweetness, humor, and heart, this unique coming-of-age story will resonate with readers of all ages.

Growing Up Gracie was a perfect Sunday afternoon read.  I'm having trouble putting my finger on why I enjoyed this book as much as I did.  There was nothing in the story that wowed me or surprised me but that didn't stop me from enjoying this tale of growing up.

This story had a very realistic feel to the events that were portrayed.  I cared about the characters and the outcome of their lives and could relate to their struggles.  It was almost like taking a peek into someones journal or a personal history.  There were no paranormal creatures, no huge event or trial that made this out of the ordinary in anyway.  It's just a really simple, sweet realistic story about your average everyday girl growing up and the decisions and choices she makes.  I think I see a lot of myself in Gracie.
 



Content: Clean

Rating: 4 Stars
 
Source: From Publisher for Review

Book Review: I Sit All Amazed by Steve Mikita

When Steve Mikita was 18 months old, his parents received the horrifying news that their son would not live to see his second birthday. Afflicted with an incurable neuromuscular disease, he has never walked, never ridden a bicycle, never driven a car. He has never married, never had children, never knelt to pray. But the story of his life is not about the things he has never done or will never do. The story of his life is about reaching our possibilities in spite of our disabilities. It is about living rich, meaningful lives despite trials and tragedies. More important, it is about the undeniable influence and power of a mother's love—a mother who was told to prepare for her son's death, and who, instead, raised him to become a self-sufficient adult.
• Steve Mikita is now 53 years old. He has outlived both of his parents.
• Approximately 12.6 million (or 18%) of U.S. children under the age of 18 have a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition that requires ongoing medical supervision.
• For parents, grandparents, and caregivers of children with disabilities or unique challenges, this book is an uplifting message of hope.

The timing on this book was perfect - it was just what I needed at this point in my life. One of my children has recently had some serious medical issues. No diagnosis as of yet but I think/fear/worry that it is going to be a lifelong battle. This short little book brought me a lot of comfort, hope and peace. 

I felt so uplifted and encouraged that no matter what the outcome of this illness is it will be ok.  As a mother I can make a difference in my children's lives.

Recommended to LDS mothers who are looking for encouragement and hope that the Lord knows them and their circumstances, especially those who are dealing with trials that are weighing them down.




Content: Clean

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: From Publisher for Review

Blog Tour: Guest Post & Book Giveaway: Nickel Plated by Aric Davis

Welcome to Author Aric Davis:

Aric Davis is married with one daughter and lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan where he has worked for the past fourteen years as a body piercer. A punk rock aficionado, Davis does anything he can to increase awareness of a good band. He likes weather cold enough to need a sweatshirt but not a coat, and friends who wear their hearts on their sleeves. In addition to reading and writing, he also enjoy roller coasters and hockey. His debut novel, "Nickel Plated," was recently published by AmazonEncore.

http://aricdavis.com/

Guest Post: When I'm Not Writing:

When I’m not writing or reading, I’m probably working. Body piercing can be an awesome job because of the freedom it affords. I can literally be knee deep in a book-one of my own, or reading a piece by one of my hero’s-get called to knock a hole in someone, and be right back to fun, all within a few minutes. The best part is that if I’m in a really gushy part of writing, I get this incredible jolt of emotion, honesty, and blood to pour onto the page.
When I’m not working, I really enjoy roller coasters and playing hockey. My favorite roller coaster, and this could change at a moment’s notice, is Maverick at Cedar Point. My family makes it a point to travel every summer to at least a couple of theme parks, and my daughter absolutely loves the trips, as well as the coasters.
As for hockey, I’ve been playing since a young age. The pinnacle of my playing career was getting a call from a member of the training staff from a local AHL (feeder league to the NHL) team, The Grand Rapids Griffins, and discovering that they needed a goalie for training camp. For two days I got to enjoy the rigors of pro hockey, and it was amazing. Of course, I hadn’t been training for pro hockey, so I was prepared in spirit only. I made it through the two practices, felt like I’d gone a few rounds in a boxing ring by the end of it, but walked away with one heck of a merit badge.
I love music, especially punk rock or underground stuff. My favorite band right now is from Cincinnati, Ohio, and they’re called Mixtapes. They are so sincere, and so earnest that it just breaks my heart. To me, that is the best thing about independent music, you get the guts. Anyone can be autotuned, or have their voice fixed with pro tools, but when you’re nineteen, broke, and singing about losing touch with all of your friends, that’s as raw as you’re going to get.
I spent my late teens traveling the country and playing music. My bands were never the best, but we had a wonderful time and always made enough money to eventually get back home. I met my wife at a punk show. I was on stage, she was in the crowd. I did the splits at the end of our set and completely tore out the crotch and butt of my shorts. Everybody else thought it was funny, but she fixed my pants with safety pins.
I enjoy shooting a great deal, even though growing up, we didn’t have guns. One week in Texas with my Grandfather changed my mind on the things. My mind was blown, and I seriously love shooting sports now. I brought my Mom and Dad shooting last year and they loved it, I guess we all missed out for a while. I don’t see why it would be weird that some of us cross party lines sometimes, there’s nothing wrong with being pro gun and pro gay rights, or any other mix you prefer. Pick your own path, not the one that someone on the left, or the right, picks for you. If we all just said what we really believed in and not what we’re supposed to, we’d all be in a better place.

Nickel Plated by Aric Davis:

Nickel is a survivor. He has to be. For as long as he can remember, his life has hinged on the flip of a coin. Or, rather, the scribble of a social worker’s pen. He’s been through the system, even had a good dad for a few years, until he was gone, too. But Nickel remembers everything he taught him, and since the day he escaped from foster-care hell, he’s put that knowledge to good use. Just twelve years old, he makes a steady living by selling marijuana to high schoolers, blackmailing pedophiles he ferrets out online, and working as a private investigator. When a beautiful girl named Arrow hires him to find her little sister Shelby, Nickel figures at best the kid’s a runaway; at worst, some perv’s gotten a hold of her. He scours the internet and the streets of Arrow’s suburban neighborhood, and what he finds there is as ugly a truth as he’s ever seen. For beyond the manicured lawns, Nickel discovers children for sale, and adults with souls black as the devil. And people like that aren’t about to let some kid ruin their game. This edgy thriller introduces a canny, precocious anti-hero, the likes of which young-adult readers have never seen.



Book Giveaway:
1 copy of Nickel Plated
Open to US Only
Ends on 4/5/11

Giveaway Winner: Moo Pie in the Moonlight

Congratulations to the Winner of
Moo Pie in the Moonlight



The winner was selected using Random.org
Laura Henderson

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: Against All Odds

Congratulations to the Winner of
Against All Odds



The winner was selected using Random.org
Patty K.

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: Growing Up Gracie

Congratulations to the Winner of
Growing Up Gracie



The winner was selected using Random.org
Aydrea Rickert

Winner has been notified and will receive his book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: These Things Hidden

Congratulations to the Winner of
These Things Hidden



The winner was selected using Random.org
Desmond Warzel

Winner has been notified and will receive his book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: One Hundred Candles

Congratulations to the Winner of
One Hundred Candles



The winner was selected using Random.org
Theresa Mashura

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: Don't Throw Rocks at His Window

Congratulations to the Winner of
Don't Throw Rocks at His Window



The winner was selected using Random.org
Stephanie Hirsch

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from me. Thanks to all who entered.

Are you looking for Books to Review?

Not a day goes by that I am not approached by at least one author seeking a book review. Most days I have multiple requests in my inbox.

I wish I could say yes to every author who approaches me. Even with reading over 200 books a year I can't keep up with the requests. I have been asked many times if I know of sites who are accepting books for review so I'm creating a spreadsheet of potential book reviewers for authors who are seeking a book review.

If you'd like to be included on the spreadsheet just fill out the form below. I will share this spreadsheet with authors who are seeking book reviewers.  They can check out your site to see if it's a good fit for their book and contact you if they are.

Giveaway Winner: Ballad of the Rag Man

Congratulations to the Winner of
Ballad of the Rag Man



The winner was selected using Random.org
Cindy Hoppes

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the publisher. Thanks to all who entered.

Giveaway Winner: Unlocking the Power of the Spirit

Congratulations to the Winner of
Unlocking the Power of the Spirit



The winner was selected using Random.org
ann hengst

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the publisher. Thanks to all who entered.

Book Giveaway & Author Interview: Elements of the Soul

I'm hosting a blog tour stop for Elements of the Soul.  Below are some questions and answers that were put together by the authors of the short stories in this book.

Tell us about your family. Do you have children, married, siblings, parents? Has your family been supportive of your writing?
I am married with one child and a dog. My father, sister, brother in law and nieces all live nearby. My mother past away from Ovarian cancer in 1992, but she is still with me. My family has been extremely supportive of my writing. My husband didn't even hesitate when I told him I wanted to quit my job and write full time. He wanted me to follow my dream. But, we haven't told my dad yet, he tends to worry. So let's keep this a secret from him. – Rissa Watkins

Are you currently working on any writing projects our readers should watch for release soon?
I don’t know about soon, but I have finally taken the plunge and started working seriously on my first novel. It is in the horror vein, and could certainly be classified as a “zombie” novel if one were so inclined to use such labels – but hopefully it will bring enough new to the table to spark the interest of both fans of the genre as well as the casual reader. – Thor Gunnin

It's rare today to find an author who does nothing but write for a living. Do you have a 'real' job other than writing, and if so, what is it? What are some other jobs you've had in your life?
I’m a reporter by profession and have worked professionally in the newspaper industry for about a decade. In between reporter gigs, I worked as a purchasing agent for a manufacturing company and a billing clerk for a doctor’s office. I started reporting in college for both the newspaper and radio. Now, I am a reporter/writer for a bi-weekly newspaper called Heartland Women and my husband and I co-manage a mini-storage complex. – Lucinda Gunnin

Do you have any pets? What are they? Tell us about them.
I have a ridiculously spoiled Arabian stallion, an even more ridiculously spoiled beagle/dachshund mix dog, and a cat. The cat mostly keeps to herself, at least until I’m busy doing something, at which point she decides she wants to be pet. – Jennifer Walker

What type of music, if any, do you listen to while you write?
I cannot listen to music while writing fiction. I listen to anything on my mp3 player when writing articles, blog posts, etc. – M. Lori Motley

Tell us a little bit about your writing projects and/or book/s.
I currently have a book in the works that will be geared toward young adults. It will deal with the awkwardness of going through puberty before ones peers as well as the great things about being an early bloomer. An early bloomer myself, I understand how embarrassing and confusing that time can be. As inspiration for the book, I have been reading back on my journals from that time in my life. It has given me some excellent insight into the thoughts and emotions of an eleven-year-old whose body has seemingly gone completely haywire on her. – Lindsay Maddox

What type of music, if any, do you listen to while you write?
I usually prefer quiet surroundings. If any music is played, it’s usually Jazz. Sometimes it helps set a mood for a particular scene. – George Kramer

Is there an established writer you admire and emulate in your own writing? Do you have a writing mentor?
Probably Nora Roberts. There is not much that she writes that I don't like. As for a mentor, that would be our own Michelle L. Devon. If not for her (or you), my writing progress would be seriously delayed. Who would have thought it takes more than a dream to be a writer? – Susan Weaver Sosbe

What about your family? Do you have children, married, siblings, parents? Has your family been supportive of your writing?
I’m blessed with an awesome and supportive family. They play an important role in making me successful as a writer and I’m so grateful for all of them. My handsome husband and I have been married for almost 12 years. We have two little girls, ages 4-1/2 and 9 years old. They’re all pretty understanding and willing to hear my stories over and over. My husband often lends an editing eye and makes a great sounding board for new ideas. My little kids try to play a part in my writing, too. They love to help choose characters’ names and my 9-year-old even comes to me with story ideas. Some of them are really good too. In fact, one of her suggestions is what sparked the start of my novel!
My parents and older sister are also very supportive of my writing career. They read everything I write and love to tell others about it. Recently, my mom told me she’s been making a book of all the articles, stories, and poems I write. Wow, I had no idea. The day I was able to hand her the first autographed copy of my book was priceless. --Jo Brielyn

The main characters of your stories - do you find that you put a little of yourself into each of them or do you create them to be completely different from you?
I put pieces of different people in every character. I draw a lot of detail from real people and real life experiences or places. I think every author puts some pieces of themselves in what they write. How can you not? This is a craft that comes from inside of you, like art or music. Our palate of colour, texture and expression just happens to be words. --Laurie Darroch-Meekis

Elements of the Soul:
Through The Fire and Purgatory we suffer Love and Loss and a Flood of Tears until we get to those Healing Scars and are able to Fly again.These are just a handful of the short stories published in this outstanding anthology from Accentuate Writers.

Elements of the Soul will take readers on a journey as diverse as the writers themselves, and as emotional as the touch of a child’s hand or the slap of a love gone wrong.

In the pages of this book, readers will find death, devastation and loss; they will also find hope, friendship and faith. The entire gamut of emotions will be run in this anthology, leaving no feeling unturned, no relationship unexamined, no heart untouched, all told in bite-sized portions to satisfy the most voracious reading hunger.




Giveaway Details:
1 copy of Elements of the Soul
Open to US only
Ends 4/25

Book Review: Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins:
Warning contains spoilers if you have not read book 1, Hex Hall.

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.


That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.


Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.


But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

HUGE Cliffhanger! - Seriously how can a book end on such a cliffhanger!!  The next book doesn't come out for a year... Even with the cliffhanger I really enjoyed this book. I flew threw 360 pages in no time at all and can't wait for book 3.

Loved Sophie's snarkiness and all the twists and turns in the story.  This was a sequel that did not disappoint.  There is a little love triangle going on - although I'm fairly certain how it will end, (because it's a very lopsided triangle) however I honestly would be happy with either choice.  Which is an interesting change because usually I'm really rooting for one or the other.

For those who enjoy YA paranormal stories I recommend you give the Hex Hall series a try.



Content: A little language and innuendo

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: From Publisher for Review

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler Book Tour

Holly Schindler contacted me asking if I thought any of my followers would be interested in taking part in a book tour for her book Playing Hurt.  There was enough response that Holly sent me 3 copies of her book to send on tour.

I've never organized a book tour before so I'm learning as I go!  Because there are 3 copies of the book everyone who has signed up so far should get a chance to read the book and there are a couple open spots if anyone else would like to join.

If you've signed up for the book tour I will contact you about 2 weeks before you will receive the book to make sure you still want to take part.

Book Tour Details:
You must read and mail the book within 1 week of receiving it.
You must get a Delivery Confirmation.
The cost would be less than $4 to send it with a DC.
You must post a review of the book within a week of mailing it.
Open to US only.

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler:

Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had the promise of a full ride to college—and everyone's admiration back home. Then she took a horrible fall during senior year. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family.


That summer, Chelsea's dad hires Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player and "boot camp" trainer, to work with her at a northern Minnesota lake resort. As they grow close, Chelsea finds that Clint's haunted by his own tragedy. Will their romance end up hurting them all over again—or finally heal their heartbreak?

Book Tour Sign Up:
If you would like to be added to the book tour please fill out the form below.


Once you have read the book please link up your review below:

Book Giveaway & Author Interview: 29 Days to Your Perfect Weight by Richard Fast

Welcome to Author Richard Fast.

Bio:
Richard Fast, the author, certified Life Coach and creator of more than 30 toys, games, puzzles and books, has devoted the past twenty years into the research and development of his 29DAYS template.

He, like the rest of us, had always been told that if you want to change your life just change your thoughts. But how can we change the way we think?

Richard was well aware of the abundance of self-help and motivational material that is readily available, but what was vitally needed was an effective way to apply the information so that the average person could experience the permanent results they so desperately desired.

A number of years ago, Richard quit a 60-cigarette-a-day addiction. He had always thought that he had managed to quit through willpower. After deeper reflection and analysis he realized that willpower had nothing to do with his ability to break his crippling addiction. In fact, he discovered that he had actually used a systematic approach to changing his deepest thoughts and beliefs, and that this "change in thought" mirrored much of what modern neuroscience claims to be the twenty-eight day cycle of making or breaking a habit … permanently.

Richard discovered that we can change our fundamental thoughts into desirable new habits by following the same cognitive procedures that we used to create our existing habits.

The 29DAYS template of change has been tried on numerous people with a wide variety of beliefs, addictions, and behaviors, and the results have been predictable but astonishing.

Richard’s 29 DAYS template for change uses proven, scientific techniques, technology and online coaching, to guide you through a step-by-step process toward changing your thoughts and acquiring desirable new habits ... effortlessly and permanently.

http://29daysto.com/

Interview:

Q: If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?
A: A solar powered laptop, internet access and Warren Buffet’s American Express Card. With that I could figure the rest out.

Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: “You can live to be a hundred if you give up all the things that make you want to live to be a hundred.”
Woody Allen

Q: If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?
A: I’d go back in time so I could dump Suzy Schiederhorn before she dumped me!

Q: If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
A: My first choice would be Jesus, and I would humbly ask him to be the head chef. He was an absolute miracle worker with the two fishes and five loaves, so I can only imagine what he could do with today’s ingredients. As for the wine selection he could create … oh the possibilities are endless.
My second choice would be Warren Buffett. Getting fool-proof stock tips over a glass of Jesus’ finest Merlot would be about as good as it gets.
My third choice would be Adolph Hitler. I would love to watch him explain himself to Jesus.
My fourth choice would be Mozart. What’s a meal without a little dinner music?
My fifth choice would be Mr. Clean. Someone’s gotta do the after-dinner clean up, and when he finished cleaning the dishes he could clean Hitler’s clock while the rest of us test Jesus’ skill at turning water into port and cognac.

Q: What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?
A: I absolutely love an afternoon snooze so I would have to say baseball.

Q: Pet Peeves?
A: Actually I have exactly ten of them. See the link below.
http://blog.29daysto.com/2011/01/20/ten-things-thou-shalt-do-or-not-do-to-thy-fellow-man/

Q: Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.A: Because 29 DAYS … to a habit you want! is a fascinating explanation of how we arrived at our present thoughts, behaviors and beliefs, and it explains how you can quickly and easily change them into thoughts and behaviors of your choosing – all that without using any run-on sentences, that’s why!

Q: If you could have any superpower what would you choose?A: Definitely the United States, I don’t speak a word of Russian.

Q: What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?
A: I categorically deny it. It would be just too embarrassing to admit!

http://blog.29daysto.com/

29 Days to Your Perfect Weight:

Diets, fads and quick fixes to losing weight never last. If, and that's a big IF, people manage to reach their desired weight, they seldom know how to keep it off. Statistics show that 97% of dieters gain the weight back and even more. Losing weight, without the ability to keep it off, effortlessly and permanently, is of little value. In 29 DAYS ... to your perfect weight, you will change your fundamental beliefs. For twenty-nine days your "free" online coach will guide you through a life changing step-by-step journey toward developing a new awareness of the triggers and causes of your weight gain. With a new understanding of your old eating habits, you can effortlessly create new habits that will be with you for good. 29 DAYS does not require willpower or a restricted diet. By changing the way you think and feel you can effortlessly lose your excess weight and keep it off ... for the rest of your life.



Giveaway Details:

1 copy of 29 Days ...to your perfect weight
Open Internationally
Ends 4/22

Book Giveaway: Tomorrow's Guardian by Richard Denning

Welcome to Author Richard Denning.

Bio:
Richard Denning works as a GP in the West Midlands. He has always been fascinated by historical settings as well as horror and fantasy. Other than writing, his main interests are games of all types. He is the designer of a board game based on the Great Fire of London. He is married with two children.

http://www.richarddenning.co.uk/

Tomorrow's Guardian:
Experiencing disturbing episodes of déjà-vu, eleven year old Tom believes he is going mad. Then, he meets the adventurer Septimus Mason, who shows him that he is a “Walker” – someone who can transport himself to other times and places.

Septimus explains that these abilities could be removed leaving him, once more, an ordinary schoolboy. Given the hurt these talents have caused, the choice would seem easy enough -
but it is not so simple.

In dreams, Tom has experienced life as other “Walkers” in times of mortal danger: Edward Dyson killed at the Battle of Isandlwana, 1879; Mary Brown who perished in the Great Fire of London, 1666; and finally Charlie Hawker, a sailor who was drowned on a U-boat in 1943.

Reluctantly agreeing to travel back in time and rescue them, Tom has three dangerous adventures before returning to the present day.

Tom’s troubles have only just started, however, for he has now drawn the attention of powerful individuals who seek to use him to change history and to bend it to their will. This leads to a struggle wherein Tom’s family are obliterated from existence and Tom must make a choice between saving them and saving his entire world.




Giveaway Details:
2 paperback copies open to US & UK
2 ebook copies open Internationally
Ends 4/22/11

Optional Extra Entries:
+1 Like Tomorrow's Guardian on Facebook
+1 Follow Richard on Twitter

Book Review: Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr

As a pastor's kid, it's hard not to buy into the idea of the perfect family, a loving God, and amazing grace. But lately, Sam has a lot of reasons to doubt. Her mother lands in rehab after a DUI, and her father seems more interested in his congregation than his family. When a young girl in her small town goes missing, the local tragedy overlaps with Sam's personal one, and the already worn thread of faith holding her together begins to unravel.

In her third novel, acclaimed author Sara Zarr examines the coexistence of affliction and hope, and what happens when everything you thought you believed—about God, your family, and yourself—is transformed.

I started this book this morning - it sucked me in and I had to stay up to finish it.  Once Was Lost is a young adult book about a pastor's daughter.  Although religion plays an integral part of this book it was not at all preachy.  Much more the story of a young girl questioning her faith, family and friends as she faces the trials in her life.

Sam's "perfect life" begins to crumble - her mother is in rehab, an acquaintance has gone missing, her father is too busy to be there for her, there is never enough money... Not knowing when her mother will return home or who is responsible for the disappearance of the missing girl creates a story that held my attention from start to finish.

Once Was Lost dealt with real life problems in a way that felt very realistic.  Despite the subject matter this book had a hopeful, satisfying feel to it. I felt connected to the characters and cared about what happened to them.



Content: Mostly clean (2 swear words that I remember) but deals with more mature subject matter (kidnapping, financial & marital problems, alcoholism).

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Source: Overdrive Download

Blog Tour: Author Interview & Book Giveaway: 12.21.12 by Killian McRae

Welcome to Author Killian McRae!

Bio:

An avid reader since a young age, there was always suspicion that Killian may end up a writer. She completed her first novel at age sixteen, though she wouldn't find the courage to publish her work for nearly fifteen more years. She holds a BA in Near Eastern History from the University of Michican.

Originating from Southeastern Michigan, she now makes her home in the San Francisco Bay Area.

http://www.killianmcrae.com/

Interview:

If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
My two kids, my husband, my grandmother, and Tori Amos. Tori, mostly because I'd like her to explain to me what all her lyrics are about.

If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?
A GPS, a yacht and fresh water. (Well, technical, the yacht would be parked just slightly off island, but details, details, details...

What is one book everyone should read?
Les Miserables.

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
Mint Chocolate Chip.

One food you would never eat?
Feta Cheese- it smells like feet

Pet Peeves?
No, I have a dog.

Favorite Cartoon?
Howl's Moving Castle

What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?
Spelling. What? They show it ESPN. Okay, not spelling. I really don't watch sports, but I like watching soccer.

What is your favorite book that has been made into a movie?
Under the Tuscan Sun

What was your favorite book when you were a child/teen?
Anything in the Oz series by L. Frank Baum. I read all of them. Ozma of Oz is my favorite of the series.

Is there a song you could list as the theme song for your book or any of your characters?
United State of Eurasia by Muse.

What is your favorite quote?
"Better to be alone than in bad company."- Often attributed to George Washington, but actually Ali, nephew of Muhammed

If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?
A Prolific Waste of Passion. I'm a little self-criticizing.

What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?
The Black Dagger Brotherhood by JR Ward. It's so trashy and yet, so good.

How did you celebrate the sale of your first book?
I was sick on the actual release date, so I sat in bed and sniffled.

Title: 12.21.12
Author: Killian McRae
Format: Paperback or eBook
ISBN: 1-936305-53-4

Summary:
Archaeologist Sheppard Smyth has staked his career as well as the memory of his deceased wife and partner on proving his widely-panned theory: Cleopatra VII, the last ruler of Ancient Egypt, was murdered. When a statue of the doomed Queen is discovered in an Olmec excavation site, Smyth is drawn to Mexico to investigate and, hopefully, find the proof that has evaded him for so long. Soon, he finds himself in the middle of the rivalry between the sexy, bewitching international thief, Victoria Kent, and commanding, ruthless Russian mobster, Dmitri Kronastia.

Both Dmitri and Victoria hold pieces to the puzzle that will finally shed light on Cleopatra’s death. As Shep is drawn further into their world of ancient gods, supernatural powers, and alternative history, little does he know that the fate of all—even humanity itself—may hinge on his ability to discover the truth among their fragmented claims. Working to decode the true past while attempting to save the future, Shep becomes a pawn in the hands of forces working out a quest older than the pyramids—a quest that may lead to the end of everything when it all comes together on 12.21.12.

For all the Tour Stops Please Visit:
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011/01/122112-book-tour-schedule.html



Book Giveaway:
1 copy of 12.21.12
Open to US only
Ends 4/21/11

Blog Tour - Book Review: Priscilla the Great by Sybil Nelson + Chance to win a Prize Pack

Priscilla the Great by Sybil Nelson:
Meet Priscilla Sumner, an ordinary seventh grader with extraordinary gifts. As if middle school isn’t hard enough, not only does Priscilla have to fight pimples and bullies, but genetically enhanced assassins trying to kill her and her family. Armed with wit, strength, and a genius best friend, Priscilla must defeat the Selliwood Institute, an organization dead set on turning children into killing machines.


Add an older brother annoyingly obsessed with Christina Aguilera, mischievous baby twin brothers who could scare the sin off of Satan, and parents more puzzling than a Rubik’s cube in the Bermuda triangle and expect a smoking page-turner.

Priscilla the Great is such a fun middle grade read!  I know my children would enjoy this story and it kept me entertained.  Sort of a Spy Kids meets X-Men type story.

There really is a lot to like about this book - from the plot to the characters to the humor to the awesome superpowers - this book was a page turner.  Sometimes I find my mind wandering while reading middle grade books but this one held my attention and kept me turning the pages.

I'm fairly certain there is a sequel coming and I'll gladly read it if given the chance.



Content: A few instances of taking the Lord's name in vain but otherwise clean

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Source: From author for review as part of a blog tour



Win a Priscilla the Great Prize Pack!

Prize Pack includes:
1 signed Priscilla the Great book,
1 Priscilla the Great t-shirt,
1 Priscilla the Great totebag,
and a $15 iTunes gift card!

That's over a $50 value! All you have to do is comment on one of the posts during the Teen {Book} Scene blog tour March 14th to April 8th and you're automatically entered!

Giveaway Winner: Must've Done Something Good

Congratulations to the Winner of
Must've Done Something Good



The winner was selected using Random.org
Sandyh50

Winner has been notified and will receive her book from the author. Thanks to all who entered.