This is the way of the Review of What Remains by Nicole R. Taylor

What Remains

by Nicole R. Taylor

Publication date: October 15th 2013
Genres: Adult, Post-Apocalyptic

Designed by Paper and Sage Design

Synopsis:

I’d never known true darkness until the lights went out.
I had never known what it was to be hungry.
Everyone I ever knew was dead. If they weren’t, then they wished they were.
I know I did.

Prue Ashford has been surviving alone in the Australian bush for the last three years. After an unknown virus wiped out most of the human population, she escaped the chaos and hid. Every town and city was locked down into quarantine, but that only led to the inevitable. Death.
Living off the land, avoiding other survivors turned bad, she’s led a lonely life, surviving on the edge of a very narrow cliff. The moment she begins to lose hope is when she meets the handsome and enigmatic, Shaw.
He’s the first human being she’s seen in three years that hasn’t tried to kill her and she doesn’t dare to hope. She’d given up finding anyone alive that still had goodness inside of them.
Her only option if she wants to live is to trust Shaw and he takes her to the isolated community he calls home. Being among people again is it’s own challenge and Prue finds herself tested on every front. Making friends was never easy for her and making them after an apocalypse is even harder.
Hannah, the town’s apprentice doctor, becomes the closest thing Prue has to a best friend and Nan fast becomes her surrogate mother. Shaw brings feelings to the surface that she would rather forget and Eva, the mayor’s daughter, seems hell bent on making her life a living hell.
In the end, Prue must make a decision. Stay in the town at the end of the world and learn how to love again, or go back into the wasteland of human civilisation and go it alone.

 ****

What Remains is a gritty story of human survival. When society crumbles and chaos reigns, people become desperate. They turn to violence and resort to extreme measures to go on living. Parts of this story may be confronting for some people. It contains violent situations staged by desperate people, the extremes that people go to to show their love and a dose of bad language. It’s recommended for readers 18 and up.

BUY IN: 

AMAZON                    SMASHWORDS

AUTHOR

 Nicole R. Taylor is a Paranormal, Urban Fantasy and Contemporary Romance author from country Victoria, Australia.

Previously, she has written for various small street press music and entertainment publications as a gig and album reviewer before publishing her first Urban Fantasy novel in early 2013.

When she isn’t writing, Nicole likes to spend time curled up with a good book and her 3-year-old rescue cat, Burger. She gets itchy feet more often than not and has lived in three countries and travelled to three times as many.

Website   Goodreads   Facebook   Twitter

 

***REVIEW***

No wonder that in this blog, Nicole R. Taylor is one of Alice's favorite authors.
When it came to light this story, I think we were all euphoric by his brother The Devil's Tattoo (even we are for the next release of the book 2). I was able to hosting the cover to reveal, is beautiful, very fresh, unlike the dark colors that Nicole has accustomed us to see on their covers. But still had the essence of his style: tattoos.

Who has a tattoo on this story? Prudence  Ashford , or only Prue.
She is the protagonist of the story, something I love about the protagonists of Nicole's books is that they are independent women, strong character but know how to be subtle and show that side of wanting to be loved with respect and for what they are.

She told the story of what happened on a pandemic, we see first part of his life before and that's what happened with his family and then change when he meets Shaw.

Who is Shaw? The boy handsome, mysterious and perhaps the little hope for Prue,  that there is a light in the midst of chaos.

The story is crude but cute, I like very much the fact is the first book in genre sci-fi dystopia with the writer writes, perhaps in a few leaves still a little note is his first book in this genre and I think She has a great ability to tell a other story of this type. He manages to make the reader put to seriously questioning about what can do to survive and still not lose your consciousness and emotions.

I loved each character was well defined, also that Prue will use Japanese weapons! I have many favorite moments in this book.
I highly recommend you read this book, ok, I take two days to read it but it was during my trips to school on the subway. The book lightened my way and kept me in suspense amid the chaos of what could be the subway,

I would like read to much, a different story of this type of Nicole R. Taylor and continue to amaze us with his incredible imagination

P.S: I am Fan of Nan, She is cool! She should have her story about the time he lived.

P.S1.1: I asked me, what type of songs inspired you to write this book?

ALLYCAT

Tour Review and Giveaways of Memory’s Wake by Selina Fenech

Memory’s Wake

(Memory’s Wake Trilogy #1)

by Selina Fenech
Publication date: June 16th 2011
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult

Synopsis:

Lost in a world full of monstrous fairies, a troubled sixteen year old has to find out who she is and why her memories were stolen before she is found by those who want her dead.

She takes the name “Memory” and knows she has just one goal – to find her way home, wherever that is. But this land is strange. No technology to be seen, and iron is banned, thanks to a pact the humans have with the magical creatures who share their pre-industrial era world. In her t-shirt and torn jeans, Memory knows she’s different, even before she performs impossible magic.

Haunted by her past, chased by a dragon, wanted by the king and stalked by the strange, handsome savage that seems to know her, everyone is after Memory, and she suspects it’s not just for her eye-catching outfit. Her forgotten past holds dangerous secrets that will challenge everything she believes and risk the lives of everyone she loves.

Memory’s Wake contains over 45 illustrations by the author and artist.

Purchase

Amazon     B&N     Kobo     iTunes

BOOK TRAILER

AUTHOR

Born in 1981 to Australian and Maltese parents, Selina lives in Australia with her husband, her cute monster baby who’s far too clever, and an unnamed cat. During her life Selina has found ancient Roman treasure, survived cancer, had knights joust at her wedding, been mugged for doughnuts, made a living as a visual artist, and shared her imaginary worlds in paintings and now in her novels.

Website     Goodreads     Facebook     Twitter

*** My Review***

-- I received this book in exchange for an honest review --

I must say or admit that this is one of those books that attracted me by its cover, I read the synopsis below and this attracted me , I was stop for YA fantasy, had dragons, fairies, monsters, and a girl of 16 years, and best came after illustrations contained according to the story.

Who said that only children's stories had to have drawings, is mistaken. This book shows that with a good story, a good approach to what you mean, and a good illustrations, the book flows easily.

I found myself enjoying this book as when I was little girl, but the best thing was that I was being a reading for the type of audience you are targeting.

  Eloryn, Roen, Will and Memory will be our fellow adventurers in a world where mystery, magic and magical beings are present. With Memory will be easy for you to identify who dresses and uses terms that would be used in a magical world. His problem as its name refers is that it has no memory of her or his life in general. And so we have another girl in the story: Eloryn, with secrets in his life and that endra to learn to face them and recognize them.

Also in this story we have guys that certainly would not let go: Roen and Will, one more lost than gold but also in search of something more.

The story progresses slowly as any to start but as you go along taking shape and preparing you on every trip, with the help of well-defined characters and illustrations using the display know as the author. Although Memory is definitely the main character in this first book, I feel that both Eloryn, Roen and Will are also its main character much of each, in history. Since each has his vision of the facts.And they're showing their evolution as characters very well to finish well done leaving an entry for the sequel.

The adventure, romance and excitement, small parts Funny and magical spark that accompanies the book are linked very well. Reading is very fresh, with modern and classic styles. I confused perhaps in some small parts of the story but were well taken by the author for us to return to the road,

Personally I think we expected something great for your second part. I did not want to spoil and break down a lot, because I think it is worth you to read this beautiful book is both visual and literary. For those who have it in physical, I envy them! (ok ok a little). I recommend physical, but if you take him down in Ebook, neglect pictures look great, do not cut or anything like that, I check on my tablet and my smartphone and knew very well defined.

My stars review for this book: 4  :)

Pd: I am fan of Will and You will check the giveaways!

***GIVEAWAYS***

Grand prize giveaway

Prizes:

--A set of three posters of art from the books

CLICK ON THE IMAGE OF RAFFLECOPTER

Individual giveaways:

One ebook copy of Selina's novella Emotionally Charged.

Open internationally.

By latest November 30, 2013.

the prize will be sent out after December 2nd.

FILL THE CONTACT FORM ,THE FIRST MAIL ARRIVES WILL BE THE WINNER

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My day of Ghostgirl + Review of Ghostgirl Dia De Muertos

Hello!!! :D

I hope at this late October and early November You have had too much fun , a bag full of sweets and chocolates this with you as a great pirate loot  and somewhere one  sugarskulls  or chocolate . Indeed , sugar skulls / chocolate , I'm from Mèxico and Day of the Dead for me is like a national day , magic , where the past, present and future are linked in harmony , with joy and with sadness : bittersweet. With fruity aroma , incense and candles of hope illuminating the path , that path in the tradition of Day of Dead unites us with something even unexplained or not, the afterlife and our loved ones who died .

Photos , aroma, color , and with them a Party to the Day of Dead, in Mexico we had the surprise of the new book by Tonya Hurley Ghostgirl , entitled Dia de Muertos ( Day of the Dead ) , and thus his visit to this country . He had an autograph signing at a bookstore , so as other autograph signings to which she has given here , I attended , I must admit that my brother had infinite patience with me (ok, I was tortured in the row with Youtube videos, on than people used Xbox , Ipads and other gadgets like
target shooting to see your endurance. ) . We went to the bookstore to buy the book and decided to eat before : spagguetti .

At returning as a couple of people had formed , mostly girls , boys also , either with friends, family, the row began , and We  were give paper with a number on the row , I was the number 11 (by the way I have my ticket yet.)

We were formed on the stairs , Occasionally I went to see the books in the English section to looking titles with hard covers or who I had planned to buy. I  went to see where the line was , I also watching news about one of my favorite indie- authors Michelle Muto (actually I was sending  Tweets for her : P ) For almost the time I was drinking tea with a little mint and I was writing a review.

Time step, the row  was bigger and excitement among readers were felt . After a while  passed a woman with  post-it , to putting our name or any nickname that we wanted to put to our  dedicatory in the book.

At exactly 7:00 pm as planned, started the signing ; my brother helped me put my things in order ( believe me I am sometimes a disaster as far as bags are concerned) I accommodated my books , and Tonya Hurley was there!  and fans of the row that were already waiting . She was with her sister and some friends from the publisher that promoted her in this country .

When  finally my turn came , I was excited and a little nervous because it was the first time my brother left me alone speak English (ok, so, as You with Spanish  it happens that speaking is rare, so to me sometimes in English) . It went well ,It is very accessible Tonya Hurley , I welcomed it , I told him: How are you? and she responded very well and happy to come , she asked to me  how are you? and if the wait in row was a lot?.

When finally my turn came , I was excited and a little nervous because it was the first time my brother left me alone speak English (ok, so, as You with Spanish it happens that speaking is rare, so to me sometimes in English) . It went well ,It is very accessible Tonya Hurley , I welcomed it , I told him: How are you? and she responded very well and happy to come , she asked to me how are you? and if the wait in row was a lot?
I said fine and that the wait was worth it . She brought little details to his fans : posters of his other series The Blessed and some spacers . I said I could take if I wanted one or more , also the translator told me, and oh it was fun. Very accessible She was let her take a photo with me , I thanked her and with good will, I had to wait for my brother ending to help some guys to take pictures with Tonya Hurley .

[caption id="attachment_1473" align="aligncenter" width="604"] My book and pretty things. Ally - All things in the Cloud Sweet[/caption]

 

It was a fun day , of course, my brother and I, we miss a good friend. We will soon be a year since we met her in a signing in a row same for Tonya Hurley , My friend could not attend . But I hope you read this little story is dedicated to you, my dear friend :) .

Here I leave the synopsis and my little review :

GHOSTGIRL: DIA DE MUERTOS

 GHOSTGIRL: DAY OF THE DEAD

BY TONYA HURLEY

Still we are connected to those we love and who love us and Charlotte lately feels as if something  will pull  towards Hawthorne and his former life. But now is not the usual homesickness. The responsible is Scarlet who has met to Matthias, an exchange student from Mexico , who has talked  on, the Day of the Dead celebration , the extraordinary tradition in which , during a single day , it is possible that the dead visit their love ones living.

And Scarlet and Damen will have to decide whether to change the Halloween for the Day of the Dead. Maybe that achieves Scarlet reunite with his best friend ... But summon the dead can have unexpected results . This new adventure of Charlotte and their friends bring to our adorable " Ghost girl " to Mexico during the Day of the Dead celebration .

But finding these windows between worlds is not always easy and circulate through them can have unexpected results . In this new adventure Charlotte learn to travel to a dimension that no longer belongs is very hard, all seem to have taken over the course of their lives without it - and traveling to a new country can generate endless misunderstandings , especially if treated with places, languages ​​and traditions that are not mastered at all.

However, Charlotte discovers a wonderful world that also makes him understand how his own existence - or nonexistence - can be filled with music, color and magic.

About Tonya Hurley:

New York Times bestselling ghostgirl author, Tonya Hurley, has credits spanning all platforms of teen entertainment. Her first novel, ghostgirl was an instant best-seller and has received starred reviews from the literary publications Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, VOYA and School Library Journal. Her second book in the series, ghostgirl: Homecoming, was released July 1, 2009. The ghostgirl audiobooks are narrated by Parker Posey with original music by Vince Clarke. The thrid book in the series, ghostgirl Lovesick was released on July 12, 2010. The first book in Tonya's upcoming trilogy THE BLESSED will be released by Simon & Schuster September 25, 2012. She is represented by William Morris Endeavor and is a member of Writers Guild of America.

WEBSITE    TWITTER     FACEBOOK    INSTAGRAM

**REVIEW**

If you know the series know who are the characters Principal, Charlotte Usher and his dear friend Scarlet will return to meet, thanks to one  the fine traditions of Mexico, the Day of the Dead. And they will have the help of a new character: Matias.

I think this very well written, being the author from United States and even though , She not lived or coexisted before with this tradition,She found the spirit of it.

Tonya wrote demonstrating the respect it has to this party and how something so beautiful can make us believe, see or what you want that our beings than are in the afterlife, they are with us and that for a few days, we can show our love and than even death can not break that bond of love.

I hope  soon out in the other countries can will read about this beautiful tradition, on the contrary, shows that Not is rival of Halloween. Instead, they can coexist in the same place,as mentioned in the book.

For my part I would like to see once as you celebrate Halloween, for me is a fun party. Here in Mexico is celebrated but is a Party for  the living, but for us both our dead and the living, Day of Dead  is our national holiday in these days.

I hope one day you, if you read the book, be encouraged to see more closely the tradition and also be a door for more writers come and known this country.

If you ask me which is what I like about this tradition: I do not know .. I like the pan de muerto (bread of the dead , is a bread traditional respective for this dates) with a cup hot chocolate, a good bitter chocolate skull, see bakeries with spanish bread in color pink. Put my altar with love and believe and feel that our loved ones return 48 hours to enjoy and see that we still remember them and that one day we will meet again....

ALLYCAT

Cover Reveal of Honeysuckle and Jasmine by Liz Grace Davis

Honeysuckle and Jasmine

by Liz Grace Davis
Publication date: September 24th 2013
Genres: Adult, Contemporary

Designed by Najla Qamber Designs.

Synopsis:

The past is never far behind.

Senia Loato’s life has been needled by disappointment, and the wounds that fester go beyond skin deep. She is certain if she puts miles between her and her tainted past, she will somehow outrun it. When she’s offered the chance to leave her island home of Mintang to become an au pair for three boys in Germany, she takes the opportunity to start  running.

In Germany, she meets Miina, another au pair. What builds between them is a life-defining friendship, one they will risk everything for.

And soon, they’ll be asked nothing less.

When Miina is betrayed and left stranded, Senia stands by her, risking much more than just her stay in Germany. She also stands to lose rich, handsome, turquoise-eyed Roman Dorenwald, the first man she has allowed into her heart.

But they’re risks worth taking.

Eventually, Senia makes a sacrifice that catapults her back to her past, where she’s forced to draw back the curtain and discover the shocking truth of her history.

Can she confront her nightmares, reach deep into her soul, and forgive those who have hurt her? Or is it easier to just keep running?

Excerpt

My muscles tensed up again, and I smoothed the tablecloth, gave myself time to respond. How much could I tell him? If he had read my CV, he’d know I’d worked at the orphanage, but not that I’d also lived there. Did I want him to know? I raised my eyes. Why not? “I grew up in an orphanage, where I later worked as well, for two years. I never met my biological parents.” Why not just leave out the whole adoption part? It would only call for more questions and complicate things.

To my surprise, Roman squeezed my hand, just for a second, but the warmth from his grip remained with me. “I’m sorry to hear that. That explains it. I used to wonder why you had this sad look in your eyes all the time.”

I glanced away. “I do?” I whispered. But then, how would I know? Whatever look I had in my eyes, I’d lived with all my life. I wouldn’t know if it was sad or not.

“Senia,” Roman drew his chair closer to the table, “please look at me. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. I can’t even begin to imagine how it would be, growing up without my parents, even if they can be too controlling sometimes.”

I allowed my glance to meet his again. “Well, having never met mine has made it easier to live without them.”

The waiter placed our food in front of us, halting our conversation. The aroma of Roman’s roasted pork in gravy and that of my beef and pork mingled in the air between us before teasing my nostrils. So easy for the aromas to do—nothing in the air to stop them from embracing. Unlike Roman and I. Between us stood many possible complications that could send a potential relationship toppling before it even started.

 

AUTHOR BIO

Liz Grace Davis is a Namibian author. She grew up in Angola, Namibia, South Africa and Germany. She now lives with her husband in Vienna, Austria.

Growing up, Liz spent most of her days in school libraries, diving into the world of books.

In her spare time she loves to travel as well as creating jewelry and digital scrapbooks. She's in her element when she is doing anything that requires creativity.

Liz is the author of a young adult fantasy novel, Tangi's Teardrops, and a romantic women's fiction novel, Chocolate Aftertaste.

Follow to Liz  in: 

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5450561.Liz_Grace_Davis

http://www.lizgracedavis.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Liz-Grace-Davis/333441076698284?ref=hl

https://twitter.com/Liz_Davis1

Book Blitz of Knowing You by Allie Everhar

Knowing You
(Jade #2)

 by Allie Everhart
Publication date: November 2013
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

Now that Garret’s decided he’s no longer following the rules of his wealthy family, he can finally develop a closer relationship with Jade. Things are going well, but Jade still worries that being with Garret is only temporary. And because of that, she’s not sure how much of herself and her past she’s willing to let him see.

Garret does all he can to assure Jade that the two of them can last, but convincing her of that is difficult when she’s never trusted anyone. So he has to show her, by being there when she needs him the most, even when she tries to keep him away.

The mysterious letter from Jade’s mom still haunts her and now she’s getting threatening phone calls. Someone from Jade’s past will stop at nothing to keep his secrets from getting out. And his number one secret is Jade.

Buy Links for Knowing You 

-Amazon        -Barnes and Noble        -Kobo

 Excerpt

Knowing You (Jade #2)

“I don’t know what I was thinking letting you plan our date," Garret says. "You probably would’ve picked that taco stand for dinner if I let you.”
“Nah. Probably the burger joint by the dry cleaners.”
“That place is just as disgusting. Well, that confirms it. I’ll be planning the dates from here on out.”
“I still haven’t agreed to go out with you again.”
He nudges my foot under the table and smiles. “You will.”
Our food arrives. Just as we start to eat, a mariachi band stops by our table singing some type of love song. It makes me laugh, not just because of the song but because they’re not very good. The main singer is way off key. I try to hide my laughter because the guy is really trying hard. 
Garret sees me struggling. He sets his fork down, then reaches over and holds the hand I’m not eating with and gazes into my eyes. The mariachi guys notice and assume their music has caused Garret’s romantic gesture. The bad singer nods at Garret and gets a huge grin on his face, singing even louder. 
I’m practically in tears trying to keep from laughing. I give Garret a look to cut it out, but he’s enjoying this way too much. He picks my hand up and kisses it. 
Finally, the song ends. Garret takes some money from his wallet and gives it the guy. 
“Muchas gracias,” the singer says. He points to me. “Beautiful girl. You two are a lovely couple.”
“We are, aren’t we?” Garret says, smiling at me, then back at the singer.
“You two get married some day. I sing at your wedding.” He reaches in his pocket and pulls out a business card. 
“Thank you.” Garret takes the card, then looks at me. “Jade, he could sing at our wedding. Wouldn’t that be great?”
I kick his foot under the table. “Um, yeah. Great.” I turn to the singer. “Thanks again. It was very nice music.”
The guy nods and moves on to another table. Garret releases my hand and goes back to eating like the whole scene didn’t even happen.
“Did you have to do that?” I ask him. “You knew I was dying over here. They would’ve left if you hadn’t started that hand holding crap.”
He shrugs. “I didn’t want them to leave. I was enjoying it.”
“They were horrible! That guy was way off key.” I take a bite of my taco.
“He did better than I would do. I didn’t think he was that bad. And you must’ve liked him at least a little. You agreed to let him sing at our wedding.” 
I almost choke when he says it. I take a big gulp of my soda. He continues to eat as if his wedding comment is perfectly normal and expected. “We’re on a first date here, Garret. I think it’s a little early to plan a wedding.”
“I guess. Then maybe he could sing at our graduation party.”
“Four years from now, I don’t think he’ll still be employed as a singer.” 
I hear the guy belting out a new song at a table on the other side of the restaurant. He’s so horrible. Now that they’re gone, I’m finally able to laugh.
Garret shakes his head, but he’s laughing, too. “You’re so mean. At least he’s trying.”
“I’m sorry. I can’t help it. He’s just so bad.”
For the rest of dinner, I keep thinking about Garret’s wedding comment. He couldn’t possibly be even the tiniest bit serious. We’ve only known each other a few months and we technically weren’t even dating during those months.
He was probably just making a joke. But still, hearing Garret even mention the idea of marrying me makes those annoying butterflies that have now taken up permanent residence in my stomach flutter with happiness. Which only makes me wonder what this boy is doing to me. 
I’m Jade, the sarcastic, independent, smart ass who has no interest in marriage or weddings or rings or any of that stuff. 
And yet my stupid heart skips a stupid beat when that stupid boy tosses out the idea that someday he might marry me.

 Choosing You (Book 1)

 by Allie Everhart

When Jade is given a scholarship to an elite private college in Connecticut, she sees it as a chance to finally escape her painful past and get a fresh start. She’s determined to succeed and that means keeping her focus on school and not guys. But her plan falls apart her first day on campus when Garret, a rich prep school boy with swimmer abs and a perfect smile, offers to help her move in.

Jade tries to push him away, but she can’t deny her attraction to him and Garret won’t let her. Things quickly heat up between them, but then come to a sudden halt when reality hits and Jade realizes that a relationship with Garret may never be possible. He comes from a world of wealth where there are rules, including rules about who he can date. And not following those rules has consequences.

As the two of them try to overcome the obstacles working to keep them apart, Jade is confronted with another challenge. On her 19th birthday, she receives a letter that her now deceased mother wrote years ago. In it are revelations that explain her traumatic childhood but also make her question the past she’s been running from.

Buy Links for Choosing You (Book 1)
-Amazon        -Barnes and Noble        -Kobo

  AUTHOR

Allie Everhart writes about dating, love, and romance. She’s also a freelance writer for magazines and websites. Before freelancing, she was a book editor for a publishing company where she worked on several NYT bestselling nonfiction books. She loves to read as much as she loves to write. And when she’s not reading or writing, she’s outside running, which is when she gets her best book ideas.

Goodreads      Twitter

***GIVEAWAY***

Grand prize giveaway

Prize (open internationally):

--$15 gift card for Amazon.com

CLICK ON THE IMAGE OF RAFFLECOPTER

 

Book Blitz and Giveaway of Layers by Sigal Ehrlich

Layers

by Sigal Ehrlich
Publication date: October, 2013
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Synopsis:

According to Hayley love is a subject of ridicule, a myth created by hopeless romantics.

When Hayley makes a resolution to declare her loose lifestyle era R.I.P, it’s all good in theory…

That is until she meets Daniel Stark, a well-respected, mid-thirties business man who is known for his short temper, lack of steady relationships as well as his strict preserve of his private life.

Opinionated, sharp tongued Hayley accidently steps into his office leaving Daniel resolved to put Hayley in her place and have her in his bed.

Both Hayley and Daniel can’t avoid the immediate instigation of the attraction between them.

In a unanimously agreed upon verdict by Hayley and her two best friends, Ian the gay self-absorb, aspiring model and Natasha the witty, borderline neurotic soul mate, Daniel Stark is to be Hayley’s pure physical attraction, emotions aside era closure.

Will it indeed be a closure, or a beginning to something neither Hayley nor Daniel ever bargained for…

 

Purchase:

-Amazon     -B&N

EXCERPT

There's a high-end coffee machine calling my name on the countertop across the room. A quick little coffee and I am out of here.

I press the green small-cup button and the machine awakens with the noise of evaporating steam. The oh-so-aromatic, roasted scent wafts toward me as the machine fills the cup with a rich chocolate-colored liquid. I'm thrilled, already anticipating the taste. When the machine signals that the cycle is complete, I grab the cup too hastily, and some of the coffee manages to spill on my white blouse.

Observing the damage with irritation, I murmur, “Fuck me,” under my breath.

“Is that a request?”

Shifting my stare back to see who has just spoken; I find myself holding on to the counter from a momentary loss of balance, as I take in the sight of the orator.

Heat spreads from the center of my skull through my throat, to the top of my cleavage. And I don’t do blushing. What the hell?

Standing there is the very picture of hot, tall and sinful. White tee, jeans, and the most alluring bad boy stance. Something in his crooked smile inexplicably leaves me dumbfounded. For the space of a moment, I am lost in him.

His eyes roam over me with a wicked glee, stripping off every layer of clothing I have on. The air escapes my lungs at the intensity of that gaze.

I gape back at him, my jaw slightly dropped. “Mmm… just made some coffee.” I mumble my lame excuse and follow it with a thin smile.

“So I assume it wasn’t a request, then?” His teasing eyes are on me, that sexy grin is still plastered on his face, and his expression insinuates pure sin.

“Too bad,” he murmurs, and I have to swallow hard.

“Is that your thing?” I ask, recovering.

He cocks an eyebrow. “Sneaking behind people and trying to engage them in salacious activities?” A low laugh, deep and hoarse, comes as a reply.

“No.” He scratches his amused lips with his thumb, looking at me with a slightly tilted head. “And just for the record, I believe it was you who started with the indecent proposals.”

I open my mouth, looking frantically for some clever comeback that doesn’t appear to come, and instead feel my face heat up. Again. Damn.

AUTHOR

By teen age, Sigal already lived in three different continents where she had the luck to experience and visit varied places, meet unique people, which only helped fuel her overly developed imagination. Currently, Sigal calls Estonia home where she lives with her husband and three kids.

Not exactly sure where they will end up next…

When she is not hiding in her office, writing, she enjoys music, reading and taking care of her little clan.

With a great believe in "don’t wait for things to happen - make them happen," she enjoys anything exciting life has to offer.

Website     Facebook     Twitter    Goodreads

INTERVIEW

How would you describe Layers?

Layers is a plunge into the world of a sassy, confident woman that meets her equal and together take a leap into the unknown. While both protagonists have their share of flaws and fears to overcome, they try to take a chance on the relationship thing which they so far dreaded, only to find out it’s not as bad as it seems.

Who is your favorite character in the book? And what was your favorite scene to write?

This is like asking who’s your favorite masseuse. I honestly like them - all, really. Though, if I have to choose one, it’ll have to be one of the supporting characters, Ian. Ian is the best friend everybody secretly wishes they could have, he is so full of life and his “I don’t give a damn” attitude is just admirable. Frankly, I wish sometimes I could be a little Ian.

My favorite scene to write would be the scene when Daniel confronts Hayley after he finds out some disturbing information. It was an emotionally draining scene that got my heart to wrench and took some time to get over. Before actually typing it, the dialog and a certain song were eating at my mind for a long while.

How much of the book is realistic?

It’s mainly fiction, though there are some minor parts taken from real life, consciously and unconsciously. For example, in my past so called “corporate life” I worked at the equivalent of “Stark SW.”

Also, one of the supporting characters is based on a person who’s very close to my heart. And surprisingly, after actually editing the manuscript I’ve realized Daniel and my hubby share some similarities. The last, for sure, was unconsciously done.

You have quite a few steamy scenes in the book, are these scenes easy to write?

The steamy scenes weren’t exactly easy, because, I’m not a fan of using explicit descriptions so I had to tone down the acts and have the emotions speak instead of actually “showing” the “bites and pieces”.

Where do you get the ideas for these scenes?

A lot of practice and research of course. Not…

Just as any other scenes, my wild imagination. Talking about steamy and wild imagination, you should read those parts in the sequel, let’s just say that I was very pregnant when writing it… pregnancy hormones, if you know what I mean… Stay tuned *winking*

What is the funniest experience you have had while writing Layers?

It was in an annoying “writer’s block,” I’ve mocked one of the more intense scenes, I’ve actually rewritten it parody style. I literally laughed throughout the entire rewrite and it was actually a quite liberating experience. Though, it didn’t solve the block issue.

With as many Contemporary Romance which feature rich men and the women who “tames” them out there, what sets Layers apart in the fast growing genre?

I believe that the uniqueness comes from the tone in which the book is written. It’s a light and fun read, even the sorrow infused parts are laced with a touch of humor. That, together with the fact that Daniel is not your typical multi-millionaire, Hayley’s sassy personality, the dynamics between the characters as well as the supportive characters just adds the special something that sets it apart.

Which of the characters was the hardest to write?

Hayley, the protagonist, on one hand she is so together and confident but then she has all those doubts that you feel like shaking her to set her back in place. So basically showing her weakness was hard.

How are you publishing this book and why?

Though I’ve been offered a publishing contract I’ve chosen to self-publish.

Why? Due to major control freakery… Just kidding, or not.

Since the contract that I’ve been offered wasn’t what I’ve expected in terms of handling and marketing, I’ve decided to engage with some very talented people that helped polish and publish Layers. I just hope I won’t live to regret this decision. *Awkwardly smiling*

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on Inner Core, Layers’ sequel which I intend to release in a few short months. Inner Core is about the next step of Hayley’s and Daniel’s relationship, when love is there but there’s so much more to grow into while facing setbacks and learning to accept each other no matter what the differences are. As in Layers, also Inner Core is entwined with fun and light scenes and while there is angst there’s always an iota of humor to make it bearable.

Are the names of the characters in your novels important?

I find the names to be extremely important, I believe that the name have a great weight in the overall creation of a character. Usually I choose a couple of names and imagine them in some scenes to test how it sounds in my head.

For example, Hayley, from my point of view could not be a better name for Layers’ protagonist. It’s a name that describes a confident, creative and original, person, just like Hayley is.

What is the biggest high of being a writer?

When someone is moved by your story, relates and falls in love with the characters. That’s absolutely priceless.

For your own reading, do you prefer ebooks or traditional paper/hard back books?

I used to be a hard back kind of gal but you know what they say: “once you go Kindle, you never go back”. Kindle, I already have two and have my eyes set on the new paper white. (hint, hint, hubby…)

What novel are you most looking forward to reading this year?

I’d have to say the new Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy book. Like many others of my generation, this was the book in our twenties, yeah, that’s how old I am… So having a peek to Bridget’s future is like some sort of a sweet closure treat.

Are there any occupational hazards to being a novelist?

I’m quite positive that there are many. Speaking for myself, I’d go with mild spacing symptom. In some cases it’s really hard to stay connected to the present; many times the lines between reality and imaginary get blurred.

What is your favorite film and why?

I’m debating between two of Tarantino’s films, Kill Bill and Inglorious Bastards. Why? Can someone really define Tarantino? In two words, twisted perfection.

Quickies:

1. What it your favorite gadget?

Ehem, define gadget… *winking* Okay, my beloved Kindle.

2. Do you smoke?

Define smoking… Just kidding, no I don’t.

3. When was the last time you got angry?

I’m a mother… I guess that answers the question.

4. When was the last time you laughed until you cried?

I try to do that as often as possible.

5. Was there a movie that you could not bear to see until its end?

Any private wedding movies, is there anything more boring than these? If you want to make someone suffer slowly and painfully, show them your wedding movie…

6. What character would you have liked to have played?

Beatrix Kiddo aka The Bride from Kill Bill.

7. "Sex and the City reruns", "Desperate Housewives" or "Gossip Girl"?

Sex and the City, in one word: Samantha.
 8. Who do you currently have a crush on? The guy at the car wash, he always throws in one of those little trees fresheners for free.
 9. What's the best moment of your day? The first coffee of the day, alone! 10. Which of your books is your best? Though I like them all, I do… I’d go with Inner Core.

One last thing before you go?

Thank you so much for having me here and I’ll take this opportunity to shout a big thank you to all those who read and reviewed – I’m grateful to you!

***GIVEAWAY***

Grand prize giveaway

Prizes (open internationally):

--50$ Amazon gift card

CLICK ON THE IMAGE OF THE RAFFLECOPTER

GIVEAWAY

Individual giveaway:

1 ebook copy of Layers.

Open internationally

 by latest November 23th,2013

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Tour Review of Attempting Elizabeth by Jessica Grey

Attempting Elizabeth

by Jessica Grey
Publication date: January 24th 2013
Genres: New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

Kelsey Edmundson is a geek and proud of it. She makes no secret of her love for TV, movies, and, most especially, books. After a bad breakup, she retreats into her favorite novel, Pride and Prejudice, wishing she had some of the wit and spirit of Elizabeth Bennett.

One night at a party Kelsey meets handsome Australian bartender Mark Barnes. From then on, she always seems to run into him when she least expects it. No matter how Kelsey tries, she always seems to say the wrong thing.

After a particularly gaffe-filled evening around Mark, Kelsey is in desperate need of inspiration from Jane Austen. She falls asleep reading Darcy’s letter to Lizzy and awakens to find herself in an unfamiliar place that looks and sounds suspiciously like her favorite book. Has she somehow been transported into Pride and Prejudice, or is it just a dream?

As Kelsey tries to discover what’s happening to her, she must also discover her own heart. Is Mark Barnes destined to be her Mr. Darcy? In the end, she must decide whether attempting to become Elizabeth is worth the risk or if being Kelsey Edmundson is enough.

 Purchase: 

-Amazon          -B&N

 AUTHOR

Jessica Grey is an author, fairytale believer, baseball lover, and recovering Star Wars fangirl. A life-long Californian, she now lives in Montana with her husband and two children where she spends her time writing, perfecting the fine art of preschooler-wrangling, and drinking way too much caffeine.

Author Links:

Website     Goodreads     Twitter     Facebook

***REVIEW***

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Have you ever fantasized that you are the protagonist of the book or are reading?

or even your favorite book ? The first step is to admit it as a reader !

Well, since we have admitted ,Now the review. Well, when I read the synopsis of the book caught my attention the fact that the protagonist Kelsey Edmundson , was transported to a favorite book : Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

That factor was the point that caught my attention , and I decided to read it. Although I would have loved  read in the summer,I don't Know why, but a good iced tea, your favorite chair or favorite place and some headphones with soft music and automatic disconnection the world.

Our protagonist is Kelsey , and can say that is a very good representative of the reader  female gender has a book  favorite in good times  like falling in love  or bad as when you have a very strong break with a boyfriend , aka the ex , that book is your friend and you identify with the protagonist or you wants a lovely man like Mr. Darcy .

But life can not give to Mr. Darcy who is one of the most desired characters in literature , but rather comes across a boy named Mark Barnes . His problem is a lack of confidence or rather of communication, and when this is complicated and Kelsey feels the worst decides to read a favorite book Pride and Prejudice, and it is here where things start getting complicated .

Imagine arriving at your favorite book be one or more of the characters in it ? That happens to Kelsey and will have to go through the real life and your favorite book and ask: can be stronger the desire to be Lizzy and have a Mr. Darcy or overcome their fears and insecurities , be Kelsey Edmundson and discover if what life brings good or bad will make you grow.

The book is good, funny in parts , but lets you see the human side of each reader for the love of a book and its history , as the magic of imagination or reality can create. Kelsey is like any girl, you grow or young, you will identify with her easily and Mark good could become a good choice literary character of felling love .

If you read Pride and Prejudice will remember some or all of the passages and you wanted to read it again, because Attempting Elizabeth , and if you read first Attempting Elizabeth but have not read Pride and Prejudice as well be a good guide for you to add to your list of books to read .

I highly recommend it , if you're a fan of Jane Austen 's novel this turn you liked , if you're a reader who likes twists , or if you are also looking for something new , also a good choice .

To which thanks to this book makes me wonder if you were Kelsey , to which book they would like to travel?
or relive your story ? or what was the first sack them that desire?

My stars for this book: 4 stars

PS: If I were Kelsey ... my first book that made me want to travel within it, was ...
Interview with the Vampire ,
and it was not for Lestat , was rather by Louis and landscapes which described in it .

**Giveaway**

A giveaway of 1 ebook copy of Attempting Elizabeth.

Open internationally. Y

 by latest November 23th, 2013.

 their prize will be sent out after November 26th.

CLICK ON THE IMAGE OF RAFFLECOPTER