Friday, August 30, 2013

Finding Home Cover Reveal

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Synopsis:


Moody, atmospheric, and just a little bit punk, Finding Home takes contemporary YA to a new level of grit...


When Amy’s mum dies, the last thing she expects is to be kicked off her dad’s music tour all the way to her Aunt Lou in a depressing hole of a seaside town. But it’s okay — Amy learned how to cope with the best, and soon finds a hard-drinking, party-loving crowd to help ease the pain.


The only solace is her music class, but even there she can’t seem to keep it together, sabotaging her grade and her one chance at a meaningful relationship. It takes a hard truth from her only friend before Amy realises that she has to come to terms with her past, before she destroys her future.


Finding Home, Lauren K McKellar's debut novel, is coming October 1, 2013. Add it to goodreads today.


Excerpt:


‘Look, I have to go. Can we talk about this later?’ Dad was asking Mum. Joe had shut the door behind him, and it was a good thing he did too, because when Dad had finished speaking, Mum picked up an empty bottle of Grey Goose vodka and threw it at his head. She missed, missed by a mile, but that didn’t stop the bottle hitting the wall behind him and shattering into thousands of tiny pieces.

‘Jesus!’ Dad exclaimed. He turned around, surveying the damage.

‘Oh, look what I did! Can’t have clean-cut Stevie D trashing the green room. People might talk!’ Mum’s voice dripped with sarcasm. It sounded hoarse, no doubt a result of the hours she’d spent alternating between crying and screaming up until now.
 
‘Even if this was our bloody lounge room, I would still be furious! You can’t just throw s**t like that.’

‘I’ll throw whatever I want to throw!’ Mum yelled. ‘You’re so uptight.’ She walked up to Dad and put her hands on his shoulders, shaking them. ‘Give up this stupid dream already.’

‘And do what? I can’t afford your habits any other way. If I don’t sing, you have to get a job.’ Dad shook his head.

I inched around behind them and started to pick up the pieces of glass. They were all different sizes, and some had gotten stuck in the carpet. They required a bit of twisting to retrieve, but the others I could pick up with ease and place in my hand.

‘What do you want me to do? I don’t have any skills. And there’s clearly only one thing you think I’m good at these days,’ Mum said, leering. She pulled at her top, exposing her décolletage.

I focused on the glass again. I counted each piece in my hand. Thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight. On the fortieth piece, a shard broke through my skin, spilling bright red blood. Funny. I hadn’t thought my skin would be so thin.

‘Amy, you’re hurt!’ Mum pushed past Dad and came to kneel next to me. ‘What are you doing?’ She knocked my hand with her own, and the pieces of glass flew up into the air and landed back on the floor.

All my efforts — ruined.

‘Let me see,’ Dad said.
 
‘Get the hell away from her!’ Mum yelled, raising her voice again.

‘Do we have to do this in front of Amy?’ Dad asked. I felt them turn to look at me. Did they think I hadn’t heard? That the fights they’d been having all day in the adjacent hotel room hadn’t resonated with a hatred that travelled through walls?

‘Please don’t,’ was all I could say. But it was enough. Dad left the room, and Mum tended to my hand, spilling some vodka to cleanse it before wrapping it in a spare t-shirt.

‘I’m sorry, baby,’ Mum whispered to me. ‘I promise, things are going to get better.’

Only they didn’t. They got much, much worse.


Find Lauren McKellar:

laurenkmckellar


Website: http://laurenkmckellar.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenkmckellar

Facebook: https://facebook.com/laurenkatemckellar




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Sunday, August 25, 2013

Juliette Michaels Tour Sign Up


 
 
I am excited to announce that we are hosting two blog tours for Juliette Michaels, Without Borders and Enemy Lines. These are two sexy New Adult Romances. If you would like to join in on the blog tour, sign up with the links below and feel free to share!
 
 
 
Without Borders is a sexy Contemporary short story about Kayla Parker, a young doctor working with Doctors without Borders in Columbia. Kayla hates the arrogant U.S. soldiers who make her job even more difficult. Lieutenant Liam Young is the new guy and is assigned to protect the doctors and the clinic. Will Liam be different?
 
 
 
 
 
Enemy Lines is the story of Rebel Leader Rachel Lawton and Sovereignty Agent Noah Connor struggling to survive in a dystopian America. Rachel is being set up for a traitor's fall while Noah has been sent in to assure her assassination. Can Rachel stop Noah from trading intelligence that will affect thousands of lives? When Noah starts to fall in love, will he go through with the assassination or put other lives at risk by letting Rachel live?
 
 


Saturday, August 17, 2013

All My Life Blog Stop


 
Seventeen-year-old Kari meets Neil Mars. “Neil as in Armstrong and Mars…as in Bruno.” A boy who beats every vampire, werewolf, highlander fantasy Kari has ever had. But she knows she can’t get close to him. Not ever. Because that would mean telling him everything. Coming clean. And Kari can’t bear the idea of changing the way Neil looks at her. Like she’s the only girl in the world. His reverence is something too precious to lose. Perhaps even at the cost of losing him.

But Kari doesn’t know why Neil calls her his ‘Angel’ and when she finds out, she realizes what love is all about. Boundless joy, unending longing and a fuckload of heartache.


 


What a lovely debut novel! This story had me on the edge of my seat wondering and guessing what was going to happen next. I loved how there was so much mystery involved. I also loved the romance and all of the emotions that came along with this book. When I read the synopsis for this book, I thought it was exactly the type of book that I would love. This book more than exceeded my expectations. I loved how there were so many twists and turns in the story. I was never able to guess what was going to happen next, which I loved. All My Life is definitely a refreshing and unique read.
 




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Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Cowboy Town Blog Stop


Ever since her parents passed away in a tragic car accident, Eden Cross has been living a quiet, stable and predictable life in inner Sydney – the total opposite of her carefree, relaxed, happy-go-lucky past. Her parents passing and the fact she’s an only child meant Eden was left with her best friend, Jules and Matt, her boyfriend of three years as her only family. That was until she discovered something about Matt that would turn her life upside down. Eden leaves Sydney in a hurry and begins an adventure that takes her across four Australian states before she lands in Pine Creek, Northern Territory.

Jackson Henley has lived in Pine Creek his entire life. He runs a massive cattle and cropping station with his twin brother, Jeremy, which they inherited when their parents retired. He’s had a bad experience with relationships courtesy of The Bitch - Dannika, so lately he’s preferred to play the field. That is, until he comes face to face with the stunning brunette beauty who’s behind the bar at the Cow and Calf. The problem is, she won’t tell him her name, she won’t give him the time of day, and she won’t give him a chance to prove himself.

What’s it going to take for Eden to give Jackson a chance? Does he have the patience to even bother fighting for her? How will he handle the competition?

In the end, will Jackson have what it takes to convince Eden to start living again, instead of just existing?
 
At the beginning you see how hard life can be and how many twists it can take. Eden has had to learn these things the hard way and in the first chapters she gets thrown for another loop. When she sets out to find herself I couldn’t help but root for her. She made me want to reach in and tell her it would all be ok. When she lands in the town she eventually calls home, I couldn’t help but wonder what would come out of this life experience for her. When everything starts setting in motion I finally got to start catching a glimpse of the Eden that once was. When Jackson Henley walks into the picture I wanted to jump in and let him chase me! He is all cowboy and all man! He makes you want to be the one he is interested in, the one he gets possessive over and the one he treats like a freaking princess! When Eden’s ex walked back in all I could hope for was Jackson taking the reins and dealing with him one on one. How hot is a protective man! This book was a great read for a rainy day and I can’t wait to see what Ava and Jeremy’s story holds. It was a good amount of erotica, not too much and definitely not over doing it! I recommend it for a beach read or a rainy day inside!

 
Interview with Kasey Milstead
 
What made you decide to start writing?
I always wanted to write, but I was too scared to tell anyone or pursue it.  After I lost my little boy, I decided life was too short and I was just going to go for it!
Where do you get the inspiration for your stories and characters?
Most times, I’ve been browsing potential book covers and a story will come to mind when I see a particular cover.  Other times, I’ve been driving or just watching TV and an idea will come to me.
What is your writing process like?
I usually just write from start to finish but sometimes a scene will come to me and I’ll write it down and incorporate it later.  Usually when I’m driving, I’ll construct the book in my head.  Then when I get back to the computer, I start typing my ideas out and adding bits and pieces.
Which character of yours is your favorite and why?
Probably Oscar (Jeremy’s son in Cowboy Town) because his character is based on my son, Jovi, who passed away in 2011 in a drowning accident.  He was five and a half and he had Autism, like Oscar.  I also loved Jemma (from Emerald).  Her story really got under my skin and I felt for everybody whose life story is similar to hers.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I basically write how I talk, minus a few ‘fucks’.  I swear…a lot!
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
That living in Australia is awesome?!  Not so much in Cowboy Town, but in Emerald, I wanted to give justice and pay homage to people who had lived through abuse of any kind – mental, physical, sexual.
Who are your favorite authors?
Oh god, I could go on forever.  There are so many talented authors out there!  Madeline Sheehan, Kristen Ashley, E.L James, J. Sterling, Bec Botefuhr…the list is endless. J
What books have most influenced your life most?
Stuart Diver’s Survival, Waris Dirie’s Desert Flower, Janine Shephard’s Never Tell Me Never and Betty Mahmoody’s Not Without My Daughter are all books that influenced me during my teenage years.  They are such inspirational stories, written by the most amazing people. 
What book are you reading now?
I’m reading Fear Of Falling by S.L Jennings. 
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
I’m looking forward to reading Kaylee Ryan’s debut novel.  That’s the only one I can think of, off the top of my head!
 Who designs your book covers?
I do them myself.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Writing the last paragraph always seems to be the hardest for me.  I’m also not fond of writing the blurbs for my books.
What was your favorite part of your book(s)?
Writing the first paragraph.  It feels good to start a new story.
Is there anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?
Sapphire was all imagination.  Emerald, I think came from me constantly reading true crime for most of my life.  Cowboy Town is pretty much based on real life.  My husband likes to “research” the sex scenes for my books so I’ll leave it to your imagination to decipher whether they’re based on real life or not! ;)
How do you come up with the titles for your books?
Sapphire and Emerald came from the colour of the male leads eyes.  Cowboy Town just sprung to mind when I saw the cover.  Sky Cowboy (my next book) was my brother’s idea.  He works as a helicopter musterer in the Northern Territory and they’re known as sky cowboys.
What do you like to do when you are not writing?
Read, bake, spend time with friends.  I’ve recently discovered Sons Of Anarchy, so I’ve been engrossed in the DVD’s.
If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Without a doubt, I would pick my son.  I’d love to have just one more cuddle.  One more kiss.  And to hear one more “I love you, mummy”.
Do you have any upcoming projects?
I have lots!  I’m currently working on Sky Cowboy (Ava & Jeremy).  After that is Cowboy Dreams (Jules & Clay) and after that is Cowboy Endings – which will be one book split into three sections (Eden & Jackson, Ava & Jeremy, Jules & Clay).  Sort of like an epilogue novel.
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Just, thank you.  Thank you so much for your support and encouragement.  Thanks for purchasing my books, for reading them and for leaving reviews to let me know what you thought.  From the bottom of my heart, thank you!! J xo
 


Saturday, August 10, 2013

Now or Never Review Tour Stop



 
Twenty-one year old Grayson Alexander finally breaks away from an abusive relationship and finds herself free for the first time in three years.

Determined to enjoy her new-found freedom, Grayson is intent on sticking with 'no strings attached' relationships—one-night stands, and steamy sex.

But she didn't plan on Derrick.

Her attraction to the sexy man in uniform quickly turns into an unhealthy relationship. They both try to resist the pull, but neither can stay away.

When tragedy strikes, Grayson realizes it's now or never—walk away or make it work.
 
 
 
Right off the bat, I was sucked into this book. I really don’t understand why people disliked it so much. I loved it! The story was so real and raw. Not one bit of the story was sugar coated like so many others I have read. It was like reading a true-life story. I could feel the emotions and passion of the characters; much of the book was very relatable to me. Yes, the main character, Grayson, made many, many mistakes, but who doesn’t while on the journey of self-discovery.
I admire Grayson’s strength. It takes guts to go through a toxic relationship and come out of it as strong and determined as she did. Three years can do a lot of mental and emotional damage, but Grayson made me proud with how she stayed strong and stood her ground.
The men in Grayson’s life, Josh-the ex and Derrick-the new love interest, were very good at infuriating me. I really wanted to reach in and slap them. I strongly disliked Josh, in a wish horrible things upon him way.  Derrick did some nice damage to him, but I think he deserved more. Then Derrick had to go and hide his true feelings and lie to Grayson. Ugh! I understand why he did those things in the first place, but so much happiness was wasted because of it. In the end, everything worked out the way I had hoped it would. There were many lessons learned and everyone grew into better, happier people. I believe this book shows the true weaknesses and strengths of people. It is a good read and I hope everyone else enjoys it as much as I did!!!

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
A.J. Bennett lives in Nashville, TN with her husband and bulldog. She's addicted to coffee, popcorn and books. Becoming an author has been a lifelong dream, and she's extremely excited about her debut novel Now or Never.
 
 
 
 
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Friday, August 9, 2013

Love Square Blog Stop

 

A love triangle gone bad...

He was the one guy I couldn't get enough of. One look from him would make me melt. He was the one I always wanted to love me, but always seemed so far away. Now he stands before me and he's turning my world upside down.

At one time I would have done anything to be close to him. But will that anything include betraying the man I pledged myself to and that loves me faithfully?

Samantha Monroe had it all. Or at least everyone thought she did. A career on the rise, a gorgeous husband, great friends and a beautiful home. So why does she feel so alone and empty? When she reconnects with an old flame, lines are tested and compromises made in a quest for happiness.

Jacob Matthews always wondered what happened to Sam Monroe. When fate brings them together after all these years, he can't help but wonder if it’s meant to be. But when he meets his perfect woman, there is no doubt in his mind she's his soul mate.

Will the search for happiness cost them everything or will their love square show them what really matters?


I had waited MONTHS for this story, and when the time came that I actually was able to read the book I squealed and did a little dance. I was so excited to finally read it. I absolutely loved this book! It was packed with some of my favorite things that I like in my books. It was a constant roller coaster of emotions. Constantly taking me up and then down and then straight back up, over and over again.  The first thing I learned about this book was that it was a love triangle. My oh my!!! It was a love triangle that will be stuck in my mind for a very long time. Love Square has some pretty darn sexy scenes packed in there too. Wow! They were HOT!!!!!!!

I really liked the characters in this book. They seemed so real to me. I thought it was pretty awesome that Samantha is an author. Aiden being her high school sweetheart….so sweet! Then throw in Jacob, the high school crush. You know that’s going to be an interesting love triangle.

At first, I really didn’t like Aiden all the much. He seemed quite the jerk to me. As the story unfolded, I started to feel for Aiden. I really started to like him, and then the end…….OMG!!!!! I fell so hard for that man. I really wish we could have had more of Aiden’s POV. I would really like to dive into his mind.

 


B&N

 
 
 

 




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Monday, August 5, 2013

Let Love Stay Review

If you’re lucky, you’ll fall in love – truly, madly and deeply in love. But what happens when that honest and pure love isn’t enough to erase your fears? What happens when your past rears its ugly head and threatens your future?

Maddy and Reid had that kind of love – the all-encompassing, Earth shattering, once in a lifetime kind of love. Then life happened. Old wounds that were thought to be long healed and scabbed over are ripped opened and they are forced to face the possibility that, maybe, they are not strong enough to fight their demons and embrace the light.

Together, they found out what love is, but now they will each need to heal on their own before they can ever be together again. They must face their fears and beat down their pasts in order to find their way through this crazy uphill battle called love.

They’ve let love in, but now, they need to find out how to Let Love Stay.


 
 
After reading the first book, Let Love In, I was extremely excited to read the second one. The way the first one ended had me drooling for the next!!! I couldn’t put it down once I got my hands on it!!! I was completely in love and needed my Maddy and Reid fix.
 Reid has so many demons to deal with in this book and you get to experience the ups and downs with each one. There are times when you want to just give him the push he needs and times when you want to scream at him to not do something.
As you follow the characters through everything you can’t help but hope for the best for them. They have such an amazing love. They have both been through hell and back and the strength it took to let the other in, you just want to push them to not let go of what they have found.
 This is an amazing book and a love story in its truest form. I hope everyone who loves this kind of book and even some that don’t, get the chance to read this!!
 

Twitter - @mcollinsauthor


Sunday, August 4, 2013

Bare Assets Release

 
With nothing but shattered dreams and a busted heart to fuel the way, Angela Fletcher drove out of Arkansas and never looked back.
Six years later, the new and improved version of the girl she used to be steered clear of romance, love and late night promises. The only pillow talk Angela engaged in these days, was making sure the person on the other pillow knew to lose her number as soon as he left the bed. She only had room for one love in her life and that was Bare Assets, the gentleman's club she poured her heart and soul into.
Dean Murray was the devil in disguise and had left behind enough broken hearted women to populate a small country. Angela would know. She was an expert markswoman who was skillfully self-trained at shooting down the good, the bad and the ugly of all masculine targets. After all, as the owner of the most successful strip club in Dallas, Texas, it was her business to know men.
Just as she begins to fall for Dean's silky words and passionate ways, her past and present unexpectedly collide and a meticulously planned future turns into unpredictable chaos. Is the smooth talking, denim wearing devil responsible for the chaos? Or have the secrets she left buried in Arkansas, coming back to haunt her?
 
 
 

Let Love In Review

 
What would happen if you lost everything? If the people who were supposed to love you unconditionally were no longer there for you, how would your world change?

That’s exactly what happened to Madeleine Becker when her parents died when she was ten years old. Ripped from her home and everything that she has ever loved, she is forced to start all over again. The only way for her to move on is to build walls around her heart and keep everyone at a safe distance. Her logic: she can't get hurt if she doesn't fall in love.

That theory is blown to pieces when she meets Reid Connely during her freshman year at college. He is gorgeous and darkly mysterious. He understands Maddy's pain all too well, but sharing his pain would mean breaking down the walls he put up around his own heart. Conflicted between loving Maddy and hiding his dark past, Reid starts to reevaluate his world. Maddy's inner strength, snarky personality and breath taking beauty help Reid to make peace with his past.

Together they find out what happens when they Let Love In.



This book had me captivated from the beginning. I was already in tears from the first few pages. I fell in love with the characters even with all their dark secrets and pasts. Maddy shows you how it is to be strong even when life is trying to make you weak. You can feel every ounce of pain and love she goes through. You just want to reach in and tell her to keep going, that it will all be ok.

Reid, oh Reid! There is so much I could say about this vulnerable, sexy bad boy. His past makes you want to hold him and love him through it, the way he is in the beginning of the book makes you want to slap the shit out of him!! Reid and Maddy together make you want to believe in the strength of love.

 This book has many high points and low points, but it is well worth the read. I absolutely recommend this book!!!