Happy Halloween

Hey everyone! I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Halloween, All Hallow's Eve, and any other celebration you may celebrate! Everyone be safe and have fun!

TBR Intervention Challenge Week 3

So, I got absolutely nothing accomplished this week. Ok, that's not technically true. This has been my busiest week ever at the blog and I actually managed to get all my posts done for Virtual Book Tours and a few reviews. I also got several posts for Book Tours schedule...so maybe I will have some free time down the road. Does anyone else feel like you just get nearly caught up and more and more requests come flying your way...I do, but I love it.

Ahhh, the two books I marked as TBR last week...Enchanted and Waterfall...well, I did get Enchanted by Rachel Wells done and my character interview questions sent to her but...well, I really didn't like the book that much. It is YA, and I love YA, but the paragraphs were literally pages long, not much dialogue, and the climax was a fight scene between two boys...well the editing was horrible. For example...the two boys names were Lucas and Steve...here is an actual line...

Lucas was a blur, moving across the room with the crowbar raised above his head, rushing at Lucas with every intention of smashing his skull in.

Anyone else see a problem there? The worst part - this was the last of four different mix-ups between the two boys. Slight mix up I would say.

I started Waterfall, but couldn't get into it so I am leaving it on my TBR list for this week.

Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning

Title: Dreamfever
Series: Fever #4
Author: Karen Marie Moning
Delacorte Press
Karen Moning's Website
Karen's Twitter
Dreamfever on Goodreads

Synopsis:

They may have stolen my past, but I’ll never let them take my future.

When the walls between Man and Fae come crashing down, freeing the insatiable, immortal Unseelie from their icy prison, MacKayla Lane is caught in a deadly trap. Captured by the Fae Lord Master, she is left with no memory of who or what she is: the only sidhe-seer alive who can track the Sinsar Dubh, a book of arcane black magic that holds the key to controlling both worlds.

Clawing her way back from oblivion is only the first step Mac must take down a perilous path, from the battle-filled streets of Dublin to the treacherous politics of an ancient, secret sect, through the tangled lies of men who claim to be her allies into the illusory world of the Fae themselves, where nothing is as it seems—and Mac is forced to face a soul-shattering truth.

Who do you trust when you can’t even trust yourself?

 Be sure to check out my reviews of the entire Fever Series.

   • Book 1: Darkfever
   • Book 2: Bloodfever
   • Book 3: Faefever
   • Book 4: Dreamfever
   • Book 5: Shadowfever

*Adult Fantasy

Another amazing book in the Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning. I was left completely dumb-founded by the ending of Faefever. I don't know what I thought was going to happen but I assure you...it was not this. Mac finds herself fighting to get her life back...not her old life...her life - period. The Sinsar Dubh is the least of her worries for most of Dreamfever. If she's not in trouble, Barrons is. She spends some time in the Hall of All Days becoming more and more confused as time passes. Is it possible that she is in fact the Unseelie King? Things happen that seem to be more than consequences leading her to believe she just might be.

I enjoyed Dreamfever because we finally see a different side of Barrons and start learning some of his secrets. I began to understand his reasons for being so secretive and a royal ass. And, after way too much time, we begin to see his true feelings for Mac. Mac is evolving into a kick-ass heroin by the minute. She is now going head-to-head with Rowena, who may possibly be worse than all her other enemies put together.

Mac definitely has to decide who to trust and soon. Sometimes I just want to slap her and yell for her to look in front of her. It may seem if there are multiple people who want her safe, but that is all a facade. Some are hiding secrets much worse than anything Barrons has to hide.  Regardless of his motives, Barrons continues to dig her out of trouble at every turn in the road. After what he did for her in the beginning of this book, I don't know why she continues to doubt him.

A must read for fans of Fae and lovers of hot steamy men (creatures?).

Follow Friday 10/28/11

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow Friday is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday is now hosted by TWO hosts, Rachel at Parajunkee of course and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it’ll allow us to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them “hi” in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

Question: If you could have dinner with your favorite book character, who would you eat with and what would you serve?

Hmmm...good question. I think I would like to have dinner with Jericho Barrons from The Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning. The problem would be...I wouldn't know what to serve, outside of Unseelie Fae. I really don't want to eat it myself, and honestly, I'm not sure what he eats. I just have a longing to meet this man and see what he is about.

Shift by Jeri Smith-Ready

Title: Shift
Series: Shade #2
Author: Jeri Smith-Ready
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Copyright 2011 by Jeri Smith-Ready
Jeri Smith-Ready's Website
Jeri's Twitter
Jeri's Facebook

Synopsis:

Aura’s life is anything but easy. Her boyfriend, Logan, died, and his slides between ghost and shade have left her reeling. Aura knows he needs her now more than ever. She loves Logan, but she can’t deny her connection with the totally supportive, totally gorgeous Zachary. And she’s not sure that she wants to. 
 

Logan and Zachary will fight to be the one by her side, but Aura needs them both to uncover the mystery of her past—the mystery of the Shift.


As Aura’s search uncovers new truths, she must decide whom to trust with her secrets…and her heart.

Shift is, simply put…WOW. The second book in the Shade Series did not disappoint one single bit. (You can find my review for Shade HERE.) Again it was filled with heart-ache, mystery, and romance. I think the writing in Shift was even more powerful than in Shade,..if that's even possible. Shift was written in first person from Aura’s point-of-view so you experience the world as she sees it. Aura has some pretty exciting adventures in this new installment.

I’m not going to do a character breakdown because we don’t really meet anybody new; however, everything changes in Shift. Nothing remains remotely the same. Shift begins three months after we leave Logan as a shade in Shade. Dylan, Aura, nor Megan have seen him since that terrible day at the Green Derby where everything went wrong…and I do mean everything. Since that night, Aura has learned a bit more about her powers and she is hoping there may be a way to save Logan from an eternity in hell. 

Zach continues to help Aura with their theses project; but, things are getting dangerous for the two of them. It seems that there is much more to Newgrange than anyone knew. Well, except for Eowyn Harris…who has been keeping some pretty big secrets herself. Every time Zach and Aura start getting close to each other, someone or something ruins the moment. Talk about a relationship filled with baggage. Ugh.

The one thing I have to say about the characters is this…Aura makes a surprising decision involving prom and when things seem to be getting out of hand, her friends recognize that the choices she makes are hers and they don’t interfere. I can tell you this much…it was nothing self-deprecating or harmful. Just a little fun that she really did need.

Shift is filled with more action that Shade was. I enjoyed this aspect of the book immensely. I spent a lot of time trembling with nerves and fear. I spent some time laughing. And, then I spent even more time crying. 

Since I can’t give the ending away…here are a couple of my favorite scenes from the prom scene…

The short tuxedo jacket covered none of his kilt, whose background color picked up the dark forest green of his vest and eyes – or at least the color of his eyes as I remembered them. Not that I ever thought about that. – Page 176

And then, I couldn’t help kissing him. (He) jolted in surprise, but didn’t pull away. He kissed me back, his lips new and foreign – in a good way, like an exotic food I never knew I wanted to taste. – Page 205

“What the fuck do you want?” After a pause, he said in a firm voice, “This is (xxx), the guy who would’ve killed to trade places with you until five minutes ago.” He met my eyes.“She doesn’t want to talk to you. Now why don’t you go back to screwing your prom date and let me do the same?” – Page 205

If you have not read Shade and Shift…go read them now. You will not be disappointed.

My Reviews of -
Shade
Shift
Shine (TBR May 1, 2012)

A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter

Title: A Hidden Fire
Series: An Elemental Mystery
Author: Elizabeth Hunter
Copyright 2011 by Elizabeth Hunter
Released: October 13, 2011
The Elemental Mystery Website
Elizabeth on Twitter
A Hidden Fire on Goodreads
A Hidden Fire at Amazon
A Hidden Fire at Barnes and Noble

Synopsis:

"No secret stays hidden forever."

A phone call from an old friend sets Dr. Giovanni Vecchio back on the path of a mystery he’d abandoned years before.  He never expected a young librarian could hold the key to the search, nor could he have expected the danger she would attract.  Now he and Beatrice De Novo will follow a twisted maze that leads from the archives of a university library, through the fires of Renaissance Florence, and toward a confrontation they never could have predicted.

A Hidden Fire is a paranormal mystery/romance for adult readers.  It is the first book in the Elemental Mysteries Series.

5 Stars!!! *Adult Paranormal Romance

A Hidden Fire is saturated with mystery, intrigue, and romance. To be quite honest…this book will make my paranormal romance top ten list of 2011. The characters are enigmatic and brimming with charisma. Every character has a specific purpose in the story, they are important and multidimensional. The romance is slow and builds with a burning intensity throughout the book.  And the mystery…well, it just keeps going and going and going…and then at the end, it continues. The sequel cannot come out soon enough for me. A Hidden Fire is to say the very least…intense.

Let’s say hello to the characters, shall we?

• Giovanni Vecchio is an Italian god; at least he looks like one. Rich, sexy, and mysterious is a completely accurate description of Gio. His weekly trips to the Special Collections reading room at the Houston University library unearth a long lost collection of letters and poetry. This collection will complicate every part of Gio’s life…as well as others.

• Beatrice De Novo is beautiful and intelligent. She is snippy, sarcastic, and made me laugh so hard. Her job at the library entwines her fate with Gio’s. B, as she prefers to be called, has had a difficult life. Her father died when she was young and she is left the haunting feeling that he is still around. She is a strong heroin and will bring feeling to Gio’s heart.

• Casper appears to be Gio’s butler; however, the more you learn about Gio, the more you realize that Casper is family. Casper cares deeply about Gio’s well-being and attempts to help him find the life he has always deserved. I loved Casper because he tells it like it is. He doesn’t let Gio pull anything over on him and forces Gio to answer for his actions.

• Stephen De Novo found something he shouldn’t of. He paid with his life…in one form or another.

• Carwyn, a great friend to Gio, is probably my favorite character. He is a Welsh Priest who has lived a long time. Funny and flirtatious, he is able to give Beatrice some of the answers she is looking for. He believes that each person should tell their own story.  He and Beatrice are great as friends…he can read her like a book and knows exactly what to say.

• Isadora De Novo is Beatrice’s only living family member. She and Beatrice have become very close since her grandfather’s passing. Isadora has been keeping a huge secret that may bring much unwanted strife to Beatrice’s life.

• Tenzin remains a mystery to me. She is very old and powerful. A very close friend of Gio and Carwyn. She fights by their side to obtain something extremely important to Gio. Tenzin is an odd one, but I loved her.

• Lorenzo is the pain in Gio’s ass. He seeks power and seizes any opportunity to cause Gio discord.

Elizabeth combined the lore of elementals with the lore of vampires and created an out-of-this-world world. I was extremely interested in the creation of these immortal creatures. Being from Texas, I appreciated the location of the story and became more interested as she took her characters from Houston to Greece to Chili ending in California. The author did a great job of pulling local culture into each of these locations.

The romance that is portrayed is not immediate and overwhelming. It simmers slowly until it engulfs you in its entirety and leaves you a tad bit disappointed, not in the story or the romance, but in the situation. I wanted what Beatrice wanted…I wanted Gio to fight for her. I suspect he has his reasons for his actions, but it doesn’t mean I agree. Ugh…men.  There is plenty of humor sprinkled throughout the book to leave you smiling right before the tears come.

For fans of vampires or elementals…I highly recommend A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter. I don’t believe you will be disappointed.

JUST IN - BOOK TWO WILL BE RELEASED IN DECEMBER. NO LONG WAITS FOR THE SEQUEL!

Two of my favorite quotes:

“Right,” she frowned. “Right. No one would believe me because vampires aren’t real.”…He chuckled in amusement. “Everyone knows that.”

Carwyn rolled his eyes. “Silly B, love is friendship…just with less clothes, which is far more brilliant.”

*I was given a free e-copy of A Hidden Fire by the author in return for my honest review.

Blood Bound by Aine P. Massie (Giveaway)

Title: Blood Bound
Series: House Millar #2
Author: Aine P. Massie
Independently Published
Aine's Website
Aine on Twitter

Synopsis:

How many ways can a hearts true love be shared? After poisoning, near death attacks, consummated passions, and possible insanity visit Anya, Nicholas, and Declán they embark on their future. Or at least they try to. Jealousy can be a pain, in more ways than one.

Can Anya protect her lovers, find peace within herself, and lead the House Millar? With her loves and guards, Nicholas and Declán, she sets out to do just that. If only life, eternal life, were that easy.

Come take a walk with our loving family and witness the strange turns and twists as life, love, and passions collide with greed, politics, and evil.

4 Stars!!!

Blood Bound is the second book in the series House Millar. I have to say that I liked this book much better than its predecessor. Everything just seemed to mesh much better. The characters found themselves and fell into their lives in a more comfortable manner. The writing, while still formal, seemed to flow at a better pace and didn’t seem so stiff. It fit the characters. And the characters…wow. Áine added so many more wonderful characters.

Anya has so much going on in Blood Bound, by the end, I found myself hoping she would get some time to simply enjoy her boys and this wonderful new life she has made for herself and others. She is forced to spend much of this book establishing House Millar among the council and establishing her presence among the other Houses. And…does she ever make her presence known. Each time Anya, Declan, and Nicholas would go to a council meeting or other activity, I pictured Anya in front, flanked by two extremely sexy guys dressed in black leather…talk about hot. I would almost have wanted to trade places with her…except her life seems much too complicated for me. Like I said…she deserves some fun.

The chemistry between Anya, Declan, and Nicholas was still amazing, yet things were often stressed. Poor Nicholas…I just can’t understand the boy. He loves both Anya and Declan more than anyone in the world, but the minute anyone new steps into the picture…her freaks. Completely jealous…without cause. Declan is still Declan – kind, supportive, laid-back, and just lets things happen as they will. No stress…I would think as a guardian and a college student, he would be the one constantly uptight and worried. Nope, not Declan.

Speaking of new…Áine brought a whole slew of new characters to the table. Both questionably good and positively bad.  I think my favorite is Jason, a deaf vampire. Who knew, right? At first he seemed completely creepy but then he was much more fun and flirtatious. His role at House Millar is unique and important. Of course Anya welcomed him with open arms as she does everyone. I think the rest of the House is going to have to start trusting her opinion…she seems to have a good head on her shoulders.

The other new “thing” introduced in Blood Bound is a new relationship between Louie and…well, let’s just say someone in the House. This was a unique take on any relationship and made me so happy.

Áine gave me even more reasons than ever to love her strong and charismatic cast of characters. Each stepped up their game in the newest book. I will be looking forward to the next installment of House Millar, which I understand will not be from Anya’s point of view. Sounds interesting.

If you love a good vampire story…Blood’s Voice and Blood Bound are great choices.

I'm not going to give any favorite quotes this time; because, the copy of Blood Bound I read was completely unedited and what I might quote might not even make the cut.

Enter the Spooktacular Blog Hop to enter for a chance to win Blood's Voice and Blood Bound, $15 to the Book Depository, or a copy of Thin Air by Lynn Seresin. Three winners.

 

*I was given a complimentary uncorrected e-book by the author in return for my honest review.
 

Tour Recap

Thin Air by Lynn Seresin

Title: Thin Air
Series: Thin Air #1
Independently Published
August 7, 2011

Synopsis:

Alice Ayre is no ordinary teenager. She took her first name from a statue in Central Park, pulled her last name out of the air (literally), and she’s actually almost a thousand years old. In fact, the only “ordinary” thing about Alice is that she’s in love.

Alice was a sylphid—a winged air spirit—when she spotted Daniel Field camping in the Adirondacks and lost her heart to the handsome NYU student. Intangible to the human senses, her only hope of winning his heart resides in becoming mortal, even though transmutation is forbidden by Paralda, ruler of the air. Risking punishment, however, seems a small price to pay for a chance at true happiness.

Tracking down Daniel in New York City ends up being surprisingly easy. Getting noticed by him for all the right reasons is another story, especially when the human world keeps tossing challenges in Alice’s path. Just when she’s mastered zippers and buttons, she catches herself dropping a sugar packet into her coffee and mistaking a photo of John Lennon for one of Daniel’s relatives. Her eccentricities raise the occasional eyebrow with Daniel and his friends, but her quirky charm, sweetness, and sincerity win out. Before long, she lands a job, begins a relationship with Daniel, and starts settling into her new life—until her past comes after her.

Enraged over Alice’s departure, Paralda has sent transmuted assassins to pursue her into the human world. A near-fatal fire on a camping trip and the murder of a look-alike employee at the club where Alice works convince her they are closing in fast. Alone with her secret–who would believe her?—Alice must elude a nameless, faceless enemy sworn to destroy the happy, new life she’s risked so much to achieve.

Welcome back for day two of my participation in the Thin Air Virtual Book Tour. Today I bring you a review of an amazing and unique book. I hope you enjoy! You can find yesterday's interview with the author, Lynn Seresin, HERE...along with details about the giveaways. Tomorrow's stop will be...The Bursting Bookshelf. Don't forget to attend every stop so you can enter to win the grand prize.  

I cannot tell you how much I adored this book, especially Lynn’s characters. They are an amazing group of individuals that are bound by friendship and comradery.  As you know, I always like to tell you a little about the characters so you know who you are reading about, so here they are…

• Aeris – (AKA…Alice Ayre) is a sylphid who chooses to risk everything she has ever known for the one she loves. She is beautiful, talented, and…well, lonely as a sylphid. She must leave the only life, the only home, she knows to complete her life.
• Terra – is a good friend to Aeris; although, they have little interaction in this book, I truly enjoyed the small role he played in Thin Air and hope to see more of him in Friendly Fire. 
• Tempesta – is Aeris’s well-meaning sister who fears for her safety and happiness when it comes to love.
• Paralda – is the demanding and vengeful king of the Air Elementals.
• Gob – is the king of the Earth Elementals. He is the only one that can give Aeris what she needs to become human.
• Daniel – is a young man of the human breed that Aeris gives her heart to.
• Delilah – is, well, a bitch! I just can’t describe her in any other way. Even Daniel, her boyfriend, knows she is a terrible example of a human being.
• Rose Quartz – is a lovely woman who helps Aeris, now Alice, find her way into the human world.
• Ignid – is a great help to Alice – assisting her in finding her one true love, Daniel.
• Dante – is my favorite character ever. He is extraordinarily fabulous. He is charming, witty, funny, and a true friend to Alice. Actually, Dante is a true friend to everyone he cares about.
• Shane – is Dante’s other half. They appear to be inseparable. He is loving and supportive of Dante’s singing career and his studies. Shane also helps Alice with some much needed guidance in her new world.
• Wren – is a blind young woman – dating Nicki – who befriends Alice. Wren has a certain “sixth” sense about trouble and is quick to warn Alice when trouble arises.
• Nicki – is Wren’s boyfriend.
• Giovoni – owns the “palace” that is home to Daniel, Shane, Wren, Nicki, and eventually, Alice.
• Ray – is a friend of Dante and Daniel. Ray is the owner of a bar that the gang frequents. He has plenty of his own secrets to hide. Could he be friend or foe? One can only guess.

Now, here are a couple of my favorite passages:

“With Gob having narrowed their search to New York City, Paralda’s assassins will kill every woman who resembles you in the hopes that they’ll eventually find and destroy you. Humans have a special name for murderers of this sort – serial killers, they’re called.” – Ray

“I slid my leg over his and frowned at the rough feel of denim against my naked thigh. “I liked it better when you weren’t wearing any pants.”…Laughing softly, he kissed my forehead. “That can easily be arranged.” Without another word, her reached down and began to wriggle out of his jeans, thrashing against the confines of the sleeping bag as he did so…”

(Sorry, am a sap for a good love scene, and nope…I’m not telling you who said that quote! You will just have to read the book.)

So now that you know something about the characters, I suppose we should talk a little about the story.

I have read plenty of books about Fae and even a couple that mention Elementals; but, Thin Air is enticingly different from any other novel I have read. 

The beginning of the book felt more plot driven and seemed a little sluggish to me; however, by the time Aire meets Terra and starts her voyage to find Gob, I was completely consumed. At this point the book shifts to a character driven adventure and things really come to life. Alice begins to meet all these wonderful characters who create a loving and sometimes turbulent world.

Lynn does an excellent job of bringing her characters to life. I had premonitions of how I should feel about the characters, and for the most part, my feelings were dead on. However, the jury is still out on a few of these “well-meaning” or is it “menacing” works of art. 

Thin Air is filled with love, heart-ache, drama, and danger. The pace of the book was perfect to keep me flipping the pages well past bedtime. If you are a lover of mythology or tales of fae…I believe you will more than love this book – you will covet this book.

Recently, I have read several books that include characters that enjoy an alternative lifestyle and I truly appreciate authors who embrace this element. Lynn made Dante’s and Shane’s relationship seem so effortless and surrounded them with people who truly appreciate them as the wonderful people they are.

You can purchase your copy or find more information about Thin Air at any of these places...

Goodreads | Lulu | Barnes and Noble | Amazon | Facebook

*I was given a free e-book by the author of Thin Air in return for my honest review.

Spooktacular Halloween Giveaway

Talk about a crazy hop. There are over 400 blogs participating being hosted by I Am A Reader, Not a Writer and The Diary of a Bookworm. I can understand why. Halloween is such a mysterious and fun holiday with all types of lore and traditions. When I was little we went trick or treating, then in high school we would all get together and have shaving cream fights. (That is probably on of my favorite childhood memories.) Then as an adult I went to costume parties. Halloween was always so much fun. A time to just be a kid...even when you aren't. I don't begrudge teenagers who trick or treat...I think we all grow up a little too soon anyway. And is there truly any harm being done...as long as they aren't terrorizing the little kids?

My family's new favorite tradition is to hit up the haunted houses during October. I love going but I am on of those people who doesn't scare easy. I enjoy the anticipation of what will happen, but I always remind myself...this isn't real. LOL! My girls enjoy them too. So much fun and laughter.

The one thing I have yet to do is attend a  fancy-smancy masquerade party. Oh, how I would love to dress up in a gorgeous, flowing violet gown and disguise my face behind a matching mask. I would like one with  feathers, glitter, and jewels. Then I would dance the night away in a strangers arms. Okay, I am definitely dreaming here, but it is a fantasy of mine. Maybe someday...right?

What am I giving away...

 

$15 to Book Depository (First Prize)

E-Book of Thin Air by Lynn Seresin (Second Prize)

E-Book of Blood's Voice by Aine Massie (Third Prize)
(Their will by 3 winners)

What's your Halloween Fantasy?

This Week at Better Read Than Dead

So many things happening this week on the blog. I am super excited to be a part of the Huge Spooktacular Giveaway Hop! Tons of giveaways all week. Make sure you hit as many stops at possible!

I am participating in two Virtual Blog Tours with giveaways also.

10/23/11 - Thin Air Author Interview and Giveaway
10/24/11 - Thin Air Review

10/25/11 - Blood Bound Review and Giveaway

 
10/26/11 - A Hidden Fire Review
11/27/11 - Shift Review
10/28/11 - Dreamfever Review
10/29/11 - TBR Intervention and Covet Review

This may be my busiest week yet! 

Author Interview (And Giveaway) with Lynn Seresin - Thin Air

Alice Ayre is no ordinary teenager. She took her first name from a statue in Central Park, pulled her last name out of the air (literally), and she’s actually almost a thousand years old. In fact, the only “ordinary” thing about Alice is that she’s in love.

Alice was a sylphid—a winged air spirit—when she spotted Daniel Field camping in the Adirondacks and lost her heart to the handsome NYU student. Intangible to the human senses, her only hope of winning his heart resides in becoming mortal, even though transmutation is forbidden by Paralda, ruler of the air. Risking punishment, however, seems a small price to pay for a chance at true happiness.

Tracking down Daniel in New York City ends up being surprisingly easy. Getting noticed by him for all the right reasons is another story, especially when the human world keeps tossing challenges in Alice’s path. Just when she’s mastered zippers and buttons, she catches herself dropping a sugar packet into her coffee and mistaking a photo of John Lennon for one of Daniel’s relatives.

Her eccentricities raise the occasional eyebrow with Daniel and his friends, but her quirky charm, sweetness, and sincerity win out. Before long, she lands a job, begins a relationship with Daniel, and starts settling into her new life—until her past comes after her.

Good morning (afternoon and evening) everyone. I would like to welcome you all to the Thin Air Blog Tour. I have had the honor of being a host for this unique and completely entransing book. Today I am interviewing Lynn Seresin, the author and hosting a giveaway (so be sure you read the entire post.) Be sure to come back tomorrow and check out my 4.5 Star review of Thin Air. Don't forget to leave a comment answering the question at the bottom of this interview to win an e-book of Thin Air from Better Read Than Dead. 


Also, keep an eye out for the letter in red to enter for the grand prize. There is a link to the form at the bottom of this post! That's 2 separate contests!

I would like to start by welcoming Lynn Seresin to Better Read Than Dead. She is not only a terrific author but a great person also. I have been lucky enough to get to know her over the past few months and I can honestly say it has been my pleasure. You can visit any of these links for more information on Thin Air.

Goodreads | Lulu | Barnes and Noble | Amazon | Facebook

(1) Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you live?

I currently live in New England with my husband and two teenage children. I grew up in New York City’s Greenwich Village, where THIN AIR is set. I also graduated from NYU (the university Daniel and his friends attend) with a BA in English and, four years later, an MA in Psychology. I’ve worked as a children’s book editor, counselor at a social rehab facility for the mentally ill, and freelance writer. I’ve also dabbled in bridal headwear design and recently was certified as an elementary school teacher. I guess you could say I have a bit of a checkered past, professionally speaking.

(2) What is the first book that really caught your attention?

Probably the Eloise books by Kay Thompson. I could practically recite them from memory as a child. I especially related to the Eloise character because she was an only child growing up in New York City, just as I was. Probably the first novel that really inspired me to be a writer was The Martian Chronicles, by Ray Bradbury. I remember reading it the summer of sixth grade and thinking, “This is really what I want to do. I want to write fantasy.” It was the beginning of a love affair with that genre that has lasted to this very day.

(3) Did you read much as a teenager? 

Did I ever! I was a voracious reader, largely because I spent so much time either alone or in the company of adults (boring!) I also grew up in a time when personal computers (and hence computer games) and cell phones didn’t exist, and there was only a handful of channels available on TV. Without the distractions of Facebook, Twitter, texting, and HBO, reading ranked pretty high on my favorite pastimes list.

(4) If you couldn’t be an author, but anything else…what would you be?

I’ve often wished I had pursued a career in film—behind the scenes. I love movies, and at one time, I actually considered studying film editing. I love putting things together, getting the pieces to fit, whether it be completing a crossword puzzle, editing a book, or working through the plotline for a novel. I think I would have enjoyed applying those skills to a visual medium like film.

(5) Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I’m one of those “what if” people. I find myself constantly asking myself that question in different contexts—What if the Earth was going to be destroyed tomorrow? What would happen if I could become invisible? What would I be if I could no longer be human? Most of my writing ideas spring from that sort of mental exercise. I also love creating characters. While I think plot is important, I respond most strongly as a reader to stories featuring characters I can care deeply about. I don’t necessarily have to love them, or even like them. But they must engage me. I guess when I construct a novel, I try to combine “what if” scenarios with compelling characters that readers can relate to. Having an overactive imagination doesn’t hurt, either.

(6) What’s the name of your most recently published book?

I’ve just published a novel entitled THIN AIR. It is the first in an envisioned four-book saga.

(7) Who is your favorite character from this book and why?

I should probably say that one of the main characters is my favorite, but in all honesty, I’d have to say that Dante Sinclair, one of the supporting characters, has really captured my heart. First of all, he’s so much fun to write. I can always count on his sarcastic wit and playfulness to liven up a scene. He’s also such a good friend to Alice (my narrator). Everyone should have someone like Dante in their life. It’ll probably come as no surprise that Dante was inspired by my admiration for Adam Lambert—talented, gay singer with jet black hair and piercing blue eyes with a fondness for jewelry, fashion, and guyliner. Of course, he’s not Adam, but I think he embodies so many of Adam’s wonderful traits, especially his enthusiasm, openness, and willingness to celebrate commonality over differentness. *He was my favorite character also.*

(8) Independently published or commercially published?

Independently published.

(9) If independent…did you attempt to get commercially published?

I shopped for an agent for several months, to no avail. I’d already started working on another book when I began to read about the self-publishing revolution online. So I figured, what have I got to lose? I might as well give it a try. So far, it’s been a terrific experience. I’ve gotten some very positive feedback on the book and met a lot of wonderful people in the blogosphere and through Twitter.

(10) Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring writers?

Keep writing, even in the face of rejection. It’s easy to get discouraged and throw up your hands, but self-publishing is offering opportunities never before afforded to first-time authors. Take advantage of them. And if you do decide to self-publish, bone up on self-promotion. Social media is a great way to get the word out, but it requires know-how. You’ll find all you need to know, and more, online. So, roll up your sleeves and dig in!

(11) What is the most useful advice you received while writing any book?

I’m a loyal subscriber to Nathan Bransford’s blog. For anyone considering a career in writing, his blog is a must, chockfull of valuable information, writing tutorials, resources, etc. I can’t even begin to sum up all the useful advice and encouragement he’s offered to struggling writers over the past couple of years. Google him and check it out. It’s a superb resource—and lots of fun to read, too. The guy’s got a great sense of humor and being a writer (and former agent) himself, he’s wonderfully sensitive to the highs and lows of a writer’s life. *If you haven't checked out Nathan's Blog...you should.*

Fun Stuff

The apocalypse is coming…what do you do?

Try to get everyone I love together in one place so I can tell them how much they’ve meant to me. Then party till the world blows up.

If you were stranded on an island, name the 5 things you could not live without?

(1) My iPod

(2) Adam Lambert’s music on my iPod

(3) My eReader

(4) A case of Cozy Shack rice pudding cups

(5) Sun block. Lots of sun block.

What 5 things are within your reach right now? No cheating.

(1) Our 4-lb. teacup Chihuahua, Layla

 (2) The 3-lb. rawhide bone she’s attempting to chew on

(3) My laptop

 (4) My flash

(5) My pillow [I’m sitting on my bed]

Favorite book ever?

            Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White

Ultimate bad boy crush? (TV, Movies, or Books)

Robert Pattinson in “Twilight” (I guess Edward’s a bad boy of sorts. I mean, the guy’s a vampire!) *I will be defending Team Edward on October 31st on another blog. More info to follow*

Ultimate good guy crush? (TV, Movies, or Books)

Robert Pattinson in “Remember Me” (Ha! Thought you’d trick me into picking someone different, didn’t you?) *I loved that movie, but it made me cry.*

Favorite food?

I don’t know that I really have one, but I love Chinese food. I could go for some steamed dumplings right now, as a matter of fact.

Favorite Movie?           

I loved “Avatar” (and yes, I know Robert Pattinson isn’t in that one!)

Favorite TV show?

“Modern Family”          

Favorite Song?

“Fever” from For Your Entertainment

Favorite singer or band?

Adam Lambert (of course). I also love Maroon 5 and Gaga, but I’m an unabashed Glambert. 

One food you would never try?

Chocolate-covered insects of any sort. Bugs make me freak out. I definitely wouldn’t let one into my mouth! *Ick*

The most exotic food you have ever eaten?

Escargot (that’s snails in plainspeak)

Day on the beach or snow skiing down a mountain?

Day on the beach, without a doubt (I can’t ski).

Campfire with smores or curled up in front of the fireplace?

I’ll opt for the fireplace. Never went camping and don’t ever really intend to.

If you could move anywhere on this Earth, where would it be?

I think Venice, Italy is one of the most magical, romantic places on the planet. I’d love to live there, but I’d have to invest in Rosetta Stone to learn Italian.

Health nut or junk food junkie?

A bit of both. I try to go organic in the fruits and veggies department (incidentally, I love both), don’t drink alcoholic beverages, or smoke, but my one, true vice is Coca Cola. A friend who read THIN AIR recently pointed out that she wasn’t surprised to discover that Alice’s first “taste” of human life came from a Coke can, given my passion for it. Guilty pleasures aside, I try not to drink too much of the stuff but I just have to occasionally indulge. *A girl after my own heart...my vice also*

Two books you think everyone should read. (Yes, you can and should include yours.)

Okay, then I will. (1) Thin Air, and (2) Virtually anything by Dr. Seuss. His ear for the musicality of language is unparalleled.

Are there any blogs or websites you frequent?

Yours, for one (I enjoy Better Read Than Dead’s intelligent, well-written reviews and am an ardent follower). The Fairytale Nerd (who’s a fan of fae) comes up with some wonderfully creative themes and activities on her blog, like declaring October to be fairy month. And, of course, Nathan Bransford’s fabulous blog, which I mentioned earlier. And to writers out there honing query letters, the Query Shark is invaluable.

Places my readers can stalk you?

On Twitter (@lynnsere) and my Facebook fan page. I’m in the process of setting up a blog and website even as we speak, but for now, Twitter’s definitely the best place to find me. I welcome followers and always tweet back.*Lynn does answer tweets, she is super cool about that, well that and everything else.*

Thank you so much Lynn for taking this time to let us get to know you. We have enjoyed having you today. I hope you have enjoyed yourself and will stop by to see us again soon.

I had a great time. Hope you’ll have me back to talk about the sequel to THIN AIR, titled FRIENDLY FIRE. It’s due out early in 2012.

*Giveaway*

Grand Prize - If you have visited the other stops on the blog then you know  there are certain letters at some of the stops highlighted in red. You need to collect these letters to find the phrase. When you have collected the letters and know the answer...go HERE to fill out the form. 

The grand prize includes an earring like Alice would wear and a signed copy of Thin Air.













Also, if you leave an answer to this question in a comment then you will be registered to win an e-book of Thin Air.

*Question - Lynn's bad-boy and good-boy crushes are the same...who is it? (Be sure to leave your email address so I can reach you.) The winner will be drawn and notified on November 2, 2011.

TBR Intervention Week 2

Well, it's the second week of the TBR Intervention and I managed to read both books I committed to. Yippee.

I absolutely loved this book. It was one of the most moving books I have read in a very long time. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a great romance intertwined with a lot of heartache thrown in on the side.

Read my review HERE!

I also finished this wonderful book. It was my adult read for the week. I enjoyed it immensely. I haven't had a chance to review it yet, but I will sometime this week. I think my favorite character was Adrian, even though he didn't play a huge part. He just seems like my type of guy. I have a thing for fallen angels...is that a bad thing? 

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This weeks commitment...

In Waterfall, American teenager Gabi Betarrini accidently finds herself in Fourteenth-Century Italy . . . Knights. Swords. Horses. Armor. And Italian hotties. Most American teens want an Italian vacation, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives there with their archaeologist parents. Stuck on yet another hot, dusty dig, they are bored out of their minds... until they place their hands atop handprints in an ancient tomb and find themselves catapulted into the Fourteenth Century and in the middle of a fierce battle between knights bent on killing one another.

Reason - I got this book when it was free at Barnes & Noble and haven't had a chance to read it yet. This is a great time to do it...

Mandy is a quiet teenager who just wants to blend in with the crowd rather than stand out as anything or anybody. Mandy's pretty successful at this until her parents decide it's time to move from Boston to the quiet seaside town of York Beach, Maine, to "be closer to Nana". Although Mandy has been vacationing in York every summer since she was a child, she has no desire to live there and is worried about fitting in and finding friends during her senior year of high school.


Nana owns a flower shop in town and while working alongside her, Mandy makes a few friends and observes the oddities of the little town and its inhabitants. When she finds some old and cryptic correspondance hidden inside an antique trunk handed down from her Nana, the "oddities" turn into full fledged mysteries. As she unravels the forgotten and hidden history of the town, she simultaneously unravels her own family's past and current secrets while writing her future. With bits of romance and paranormal along the way, she is able to figure out the puzzle of the correspondance, the magic she never realized was surrounding her, and visions of the past and future. Will she walk away from her personal history and her future or will she realize it's ok to be somebody, even if that somebody is nothing like everybody else?

Reason...I am scheduled for a blog tour and really need to read this book. I keep putting it off so now I have to read it...Right?