Dark Seeker (Giveaway) by Taryn Browning

Welcome to the Dark Seeker Virtual Blog tour. Today I am pleased to bring you my review of this fantastical tale and a chance to win an e-book of Taryn Browning's opening  novel to The Dark Seeker Series. If you haven't heard the gossip leaking from around the blogosphere...you definitely need to grab a copy of this book and read it. I think you will be surprised in a most pleasing way. Oh, and in case you missed my interview with the wonderful Taryn Browning...look HERE!

Title: Dark Seeker
Series: Dark Seeker #1
Author: Taryn Browning
Independently Published
Publication Date: October 4, 2011

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Synopsis:

For 17-year-old Seeker, Janie Grey, ridding the Baltimore streets of the undead is an inherited duty passed down from her Cherokee ancestors. Seeker Training Lesson #1: Never trust the undead. After her father’s tragic death, Janie creates her own life lesson: Love isn’t worth the risk. 

Both lessons are easy to follow until she encounters the flawed Kai Sterdam. At first, she believes he is the hybrid she is trained to hunt. But, when he has human traits, she determines she doesn’t know what he is. As Janie’s intrigue over who Kai is pushes her deeper into his mysterious past, she discovers a shocking truth that is even more harrowing than the evil they are up against. It’s a secret Kai wants to keep hidden, especially from Janie.

Dark Seeker is a great beginning to a promising series. Ms. Browning has created a group of characters who are riddled with conflicts and filled with emotions. The world they fight to survive in is an everyday world plagued with paranormalcies unbeknownst to humans. Janie Grey is charged with Seeking these life-depleting creatures and ending their terror against mankind.  Problem is, things are changing amongst the vampires and Daychildren. Janie now has to choose between the worst of two worlds.

I enjoyed the uniqueness of Dark Seeker. After so many vampire books, it can be difficult to create something new and refreshing. A big round of applause goes to Taryn for accomplishing this task. I loved the Blood/Crypt spin she put on this story. The "turf battle" between the Vampires and Daychildren oozed of gang type struggles. Who's the strongest, who can "turn" the most people, who can acquire the most assets...these types of never-ending controversies. Instead of the common one-on-one pairing, Ms. Browning threw in another player notching up the action and adversity to a whole other level.

Janie is a strong heroine. She has been raised to kill first and ask questions later, which is exactly what she does until she meets a certain smoldering dem_, Day_, hum_ ...ah hell, who knows what to call Kai. He is something Janie's world has never seen and Janie knows he is trouble; but, like all trouble, she has to know more. Kai will cause emotions to surface in Janie that she has kept locked away since her father was murdered by one of these creatures she Seeks. Not all these emotions will be all happy and fluffy. She will have to overcome things she had never dreamed of in order to accept the past and move into the future. Kai will be dead center around everything.

I loved the relationship between Janie and Kai. Now the whole Imprint thing with Matt was a little unbelievable for me. I just didn't feel the love and devotion that I thought I should with that type of link. I am definitely interested to see where Taryn takes this relationship as well as the relationship between Luke and Ava, two of Janie's best friends. 

This book is action-packed which makes it a difficult book to put down. Janie definitely grows as a protagonist, becoming stronger and much surer of the life she wants. However, Janie is not the only character who matures...several of the secondary characters grow and learn to accept that the world is not everything they once believed it to be. It is so great seeing adults open their minds and grasp that change isn't always a bad thing. Okay, okay...I won't start my preaching but you get the point. 

Many of the books I have read recently have left me unsatisfied in their ending...especially when part of a series. While I completely understand the need for unanswered questions to bring the reader back for more, I tire of never really knowing anything until the last novel. I have to say this is NOT the case with Dark Seeker. I was ever-so-greatly pleased with the ending. No...I won't tell you about it, but it did satisfy my needs and left me with enough curiosity to pick up the sequel.

**********************************************************************************

So...you want to win a copy of Dark Seeker? 
Let's make this simple...
Leave me a comment telling me who your favorite vampire is. 

Be sure you leave your email address so I can contact the winner. 

The contest will end December 31, 2011 at 11:59 PM CST. That's right...as soon as the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Day...the contest ends. 

Ignite by Kaitlyn Davis

Title: Ignite
Series: Midnight Fire Series #1
Author: Kaitlyn Davis
Independently Published
October 9, 2011

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Synopsis: "With one last look, one final search of the lines of his face for some sign, Kira turned and ran away from the sound of the man she loved laughing in the face of her death."

When Kira Dawson moves to South Carolina, she meets Luke, a blond goofball who quickly becomes her best friend, and Tristan, a mysterious bad boy who sends shivers down her spine. Kira knows they're keeping secrets, but when she discovers Tristan's lust for blood and her own dormant mystical powers, Kira is forced to fight for her life and make the heartbreaking decision between the familiar comfort of friendship and the fiery passion of love.

It's been a while since I have read a really good YA vampire book. They have become so cliche that I often avoid them. Imagine my surprise when I picked up Ignite and fell in love with it by page 17. I emailed Kaitlyn that minute to tell her how much I was enjoying Ignite. At this point, I wasn't even really certain that the book was about vampires but I suspected as much. But hey...these vampires surfed. I loved Kaitlyn's lore surrounding her vampires. It was unique and well thought out.

Kira make a great heroin. She is faced with adversity and doesn't back down. She knows what she wants and she's going to get him...no matter what anyone says. I loved that she didn't do the whole "which one do I want" thing. She loves Luke as a friend and respects his opinion but that is as far as it goes. Tristan is the one for her, the one who makes her all warm and gooey, the one she dreams about, the one who brings out the fire in her...literally.

I loved Tristan but I felt his character was underdeveloped. He was supposed to be the bad boy but I never got that feel from him. I kind of felt like he had no real internal struggle. He wanted Kira and he would make it happen. Easy peasy. Sexy - definitely, tortured - certainly,  take home and have my way with - oh hell yeah. But things were just too easy for him.

Luke is great. He's the supportive best friend when he needed to be and the protective older brother at other times.  I enjoyed his light-hearted interactions with his friends and fierce reactions to Tristan and his crew of misfits. Luke was completely believable in his role.

Kira and Luke are conduits. They are the only things that can harm vampires...ever. They don't do it by ripping their bodies to shreds and burning them, they don't decapitate them, they don't stake them. They draw the sun into their body and use it as a weapon. Kira comes to Charleston without any knowledge of who or what she is. She realizes that Luke looks similar to her ex-boyfriend from up north and that his eyes are "psycho" like hers. At least that's what one of their friends point out.

Luke refers to Tristan and his friends as the "misfits." Of course, Luke knows more about them than he let's on. Luke has been sent to protect and watch Kira by the council. She was born to a Punisher and a Protector. These are two groups of people who have the power to either kill (Punishers) or weaken (Protectors) vampires. Punishers believe that vampires have no souls and therefore possess no ability to control themselves and care for others. Protectors believe that maybe vampires do have a chance at normality.

Kira has the powers of both Punisher and Protector which cause her to be a concern to her people and vampires, alike. Secrets will be revealed that leave Kira frustrated and upset with those she is closest too. Kira will have to learn to use her powers in order to save herself and quite possibly Luke and Tristan from death.

Truly, I enjoyed Ignite immensely. I did feel like certain aspects of the story weren't fleshed out enough and from time to time I got a Twilight feeling. That is not a bad thing in my book except to say certain parts lacked creativity. Overall, I would definitely recommend Ignite to anyone looking for a good YA Paranormal Romance.

Be sure to enter both of my giveaways for your chance to win one of three e-books of Ignite and lots of other great prizes.
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Whirl by Emma Raveling

Title: Whirl
Series: The Ondine Quartet
Author: Emma Raveling
Independently Published
September 15, 2011

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Synopsis:

 Seventeen-year-old Kendra Irisavie is an ondine, a water elemental caught in the middle of an ancient war with the Aquidae, immortal dark demons who will stop at nothing to destroy the fragile balance of the Elemental world.

Fierce and independent, Kendra has always played by her own rules. Gifted with the powerful magic of Virtue and trained to be a deadly fighter, she has spent her life breaking hearts and getting into trouble.

When her life explodes one violent night in a northern California city, a dark stranger appears, promising answers to her mysterious past. Alone and with no one to trust, she must now navigate through a dangerous new world, face the temptations of a forbidden romance, and remain true to her duty and destiny.

All while the Aquidae continue to hunt her down, in the hopes of eliminating her forever…

An edgy YA urban fantasy/paranormal romance, Whirl is recommended for older teens and mature readers due to strong language and mild sexual situations.

Every book I have read about elementals has been phenominal; Whirl is no exception. While this wasn't a unique story line, I loved the fierceness in the characters. Kendra is independent and broken. Her mother raised her in the mortal world and taught her to fight for her life; sadly, Ondines are not meant to fight. They are meant to wield magic and sometimes that just isn't enough. Kendra's mom dies tragically, leaving Kendra alone in the mortal world...until...

Tristan, powerful and skilled, arrives in the nick of time, escorting Kendra back to a home her mother had removed her from long ago. Kendra is from a royal line of Ondines and holds the power to change the world...just not as soon as she would like. Her mom kept numerous secrets from Kendra, leaving her angry and weary of those around her. Returning home is no easy task. Kendra knows little of the magic she possesses and will be forced to learn how to use it...and the quicker the better; however, all Kendra really wants is to be allowed to fight the Aquidae, the demon equivalent.

I sincerely enjoyed Whirl, written in first person, you get up close and personal with Kendra's feelings. Feelings of hate, frustration, and love. The book is filled with angst, deception, and intensity. For those of you who enjoy some romance, never fear, there is plenty of that too. A fast paced read that keeps the pages turning. The characters are complex and lovable, giving you every reason to become invested in their well-being. Kendra is quick-witted and snarky, making her just my kind of heroin. The world building of Lumiere Academy and it's surroundings pulls you into another world. The only thing stopping me from giving it 5 Stars is it's lack of uniqueness in storyline.

Whirl is definitely worth a read (or two). Emma Raveling wrote a wonderful and intriguing debut. I cannot wait to see what the rest of this series holds for us.

*I was provided a free e-copy of  Whirl by Emma Raveling in return for my honest review.

This Same Earth by Elizabeth Hunter

Title: This Same Earth
Series: Elemental Mysteries #2
Author: Elizabeth Hunter
Independently Published
December 7, 2011
 

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Synopsis:

Beatrice De Novo thought she had left the supernatural world behind…for the most part. But when the past becomes the present, will she leave her quiet life in Los Angeles to follow a mystery she thought had abandoned her? Where has Giovanni Vecchio been, and why has he returned? Giovanni has his own questions, and he’s looking to her for answers.

The sequel to A Hidden Fire will reunite Beatrice and Giovanni to continue their search through the past while both wrestle with the future. When the world as you knew it has changed forever, is there any way you can turn back?

This Same Earth is the second book in the Elemental Mysteries series. It is a paranormal romance/mystery for adult readers.

This Same Earth is exactly what I have come to expect from the brilliant Elizabeth Hunter - fierce, sexy, and mysterious. This is the second book in the Elemental Mysteries Series, a series delving into a complete new world of vampires. The mystical creatures are able to call on one of the elements: earth, air, water, or fire to aid with anything from lighting a fire to battling their enemies. Their abilities coincide with their element, obviously. The lovely Beatrice stumbled into this world in A Hidden Fire, only to find herself deserted by the one she loved. In this installment, she will be forced to face her past and make decisions that will change her life forever.

Beatrice has grown into a beautiful young woman and has attempted to put the past behind her. She has a great job, owns a quaint little home, and has normal friends - including a boyfriend she loves. Gio disappeared from her life the day she moved to California and she despises him because of it. She suspects he has had a behind-the-scenes role in her life over the years; what she doesn't know is how great that role has been. She has no idea the extents he has taken to assure that she is safe. The people Beatrice has surrounded herself with all these years may not be what they seem.

When the past waltzes back into her life as nothing has changed, Bea finds herself buried in turmoil over her feelings for Gio. She is determined that he will earn her trust again, that he will not just up and disappear again, leaving her broken once again. The romantic tension between these two lurches up a few notches as Bea is determined to remain friends and avoid all romantic feelings for the fire vampire while Gio is determined to have Beatrice back in his life as much more than friends. Who will win, I wonder?

Just as the two are making their way to becoming friends, Lorenzo strikes again...killing someone dear to Gio. Beatrice is determined to be a part of this journey in every way. We tag along with Gio and Bea as they tromp through Europe, seeking justice and freedom, meeting an eclectic group of characters who provide both stability and chaos throughout the adventure. Some you will love and others you will hate. And have no fear...many of the old characters make appearances as time moves forward.

Ms. Hunter's phenomenal world building skills drop you deep into a world fraught with fantastical creatures, frightening circumstances, and unyielding love. This is an unique and addicting series.

The Force of Wind makes it's debut in March of 2012. I am not sure I can wait that long.

Check out my review of the first book, A Hidden Fire.

The Dark Fae by Terry Spear

Title: The Dark Fae
Author: Terry Spear
Independently Published
Published: May 12, 2011
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance

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Synopsis:

Alicia's always known she's different--that she can recognize the mischievous fae when they show up to "play" with the humans. Only now she's faced with one highly annoyed dark fae and she's certain he knows the truth about her. She can see him, which means her life is forfeit.

Add to that, his sister arrives, who wants to play, too. And their mother, the queen of the Denkar, will want Alicia's head, once she learns what Alicia can do.

And all because Alicia was attempting to rescue her friend, Cassie, on their beach excursion at South Padre Island, from the wicked fae. Now, Alicia has really gone and done it--and she's thinking she should have let the fae have his fun. Her friend's broken heart would be a lot easier to deal with, than Alicia losing her life.

But it is too late for regrets. As soon as she threw the soda at the dark fae's chest, she had declared war on the fae. And he is happy to take up the challenge.

Anyone who knows me, knows I love all things Fae. Heck, I even tease my daughters, telling them that my flower bed is a secret faerie garden. When asked by Terry Spears to review The Dark Fae, I jumped at the chance, not to be disappointed. I adored that part of the story took place at South Padre Island...I am from Texas after all, plus I adore the ocean. Deveron and Alicia were fun as guides in their crazy world.

Alicia has always known she can see Fae but she has never known how deeply her sight is implanted in her. When she sees "the evil" dark fae flirting with her best friend, Alicia throws ice cold coke on him. I would have paid to see his face...especially since he is fae royalty. Deveron realizes immediately that there is something different about Alicia. Through several laugh provoking experiments, he figures out that she can see even invisible fae. It doesn't take him long to figure out she needs protection and he is the only one who can help; neither of them know exactly what they are getting themselves into.

While I definitely enjoyed this fantastical tale, I didn't find the world as intriguing as I would have liked. There was something missing that didn't pull me deep into the story. 

The Dark Fae was a quick and fun story. I loved the interaction between Deveron, Alicia, and Ritasia (Deveron's sister). They were quirky, quick-witted, and exciting.  

*I was given an e-book copy of The Dark Fae  by Terry Spear in exchange for my honest review.

Image Review and Giveaway by Jamie Magee

Good morning everyone. I am please to be reviewing Image (Insight #3) today. This series is phenomenal and I cannot rave about it's complete awesomeness enough. Thanks to Cynthia at Book Reader Addicts for asking me to be part of this tour. If it weren't for her, I'm not sure I would have found these books. Be sure to fill out the rafflecopter below to enter for a chance to win all three e-books from the Insight Series, as well as a series of signed Insight bookmarks.

Title: Image
Series: Insight #3
Author: Jamie Magee
Independently Published
November 4, 2011

Synopsis:

There is an ominous darkness; one that is so dense and mind-numbing that you can feel the chills race across your skin as the energy of its hatred hovers near you. They thought that it was over… that he was dead… they never imagined that he was more powerful dead than he ever was alive.

The dark dimension Esterious is on the brink of war, the victory Willow had a few days ago is nothing more than a vague memory. With each thought she has, she fights the images of Drake’s dark eyes and his words… his promises. Doubt seeps into her soul as she faces what could be the hardest battle she has faced so far.

Venus is meant to be the planet of love and peace… but when it falls into retrograde its influence changes. Matters of past relationships will surface, choices will be made with the mind and not the heart and gateways to an evil that cannot be fathomed will open. Willow and Landen’s only defense is to hide their family away, and lock themselves in the palace that was once ruled by Donalt.

The energy is heavy and dark within its walls…there is a presence that lingers and strikes at will. Cruel illusions are placed before Willow, but that is not even the hardest part… what is hard is standing in a room with Drake and Landen and listening to others tell you of lives that you cannot recall… for them to tell you when and how you are going to die.

Every prediction and theory is about to be proven wrong… and the choice before Willow’s heart holds the lives of millions at stake. The question is: will she be able to see through the illusions before her and make a choice… she can live with? 

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Okay, if I haven't told you...and I have - These Books are Phenomenal. And now - well, let's just say the story is getting really interesting. Drake has been lied to, deceived, and manipulated by the only family he has ever known and by everyone around him. He has been raised to to rule Esterious when Donalt dies. He believes he will do this with Willow at his side, or not. Centuries ago, many spells and machinations were put into to place by people claiming they were only protecting him and Willow. 

This trial revolves around Willow's nineteenth birthday; the stars and the scrolls predict this much. The scrolls tell them much more, like when every trial will take place. Convenient except for the fact that they don't tell them what the trial will consist of. Once Perodine realizes what has happened, she knows Donalt knew more than he ever let on. He "weaved his intentions alongside Drake, hiding himself." What does this mean? That Donalt is a force to be reckoned with. Drake has been played just like Willow and Landen. None of this mess is truly his fault.

The trial that Venus presents will force Willow to choose between Landen and Drake. She will have to kill one of them. Everyone is hoping for Drake...not for the reason you think. Landen has discovered he is a powerful healer and would be able to bring Drake back, if need be. But, as you well know...nothing is ever that easy.

Seeing Landen, Willow, and Drake work together brought joy to my heart...even if it was a forced truce. With every book I learn a little bit more about Drake and fall a little bit more in love with him. Don't get me wrong...I believe with all my heart that Landen and Willow belong together; I just hope Drake will be able to find a true love of his own. The end of the book brought tears to my eyes...you will have to read it to find out why.

Here are the links to the other posts I have done on the Insight Series:

Insight (Insight #1) Review 

Insight Series Character Breakdown 
Embody (Insight #2) Review
Image (Insight #3) Review

HaHa, HeHe, it's time for the fun part. Be sure to fill out the Rafflecopter. You want to win these three e-books, I promise.*Should Rafflecopter say the contest is closed, please leave a comment, the contest closes on 12:01 AM on 12/4/11.

 

Embody by Jamie Magee

Title: Embody
Series: Insight #2
Author: Jamie Magee
Independently Published: July 2011

Synopsis:

Not many Scorpio’s are known for their patience, and Willow Haywood is no different. Her only desire is to love Landen Chambers and redeem the lost souls of Esterious, but the path to that desire is long, dark and dangerous... 

Before Willow’s life had a chance to balance the sudden revelations and grief she had to endure to get to Chara a disturbing discovery is made. A photo, one that shows Willow blissfully embracing the flawless image of Drake Blakeshire; giving her not only proof that she had lived before, but that she had loved him. 

Running away from the memory of Drake’s hypnotizing touch, and the prophecy set before her seemed like the logical thing to do. That is, until a dark dream reignites her passion to save the hopeless dimension of Esterious. Willow struggles to find patience – to learn everything she needs to know before she faces Drake again, but her eagerness is dangerous and one step in the wrong direction takes everything and everyone away from her – the only way to survive this trial is for Willow to remember who she is and what she really wants out of this life. The question is….can she do that?

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If you have been by my blog in the last couple of weeks, then you know that I have fallen in love with the Insight Series. Embody is the perfect mixture of action, philosophy, and undying love. Landen and Willow will once again face Drake as Mercury orbits into place. This is the second of many trials they will face in order to restore the color to Esterious.  As the myth goes, only the rightful Guardian with Willow at his side can prevail over the world. Drake believes he is the Guardian and will do anything to have her at his side. Landen already has Willow's love, but has no desire to rule the world.

Willow and Landen want to protect the ones they love, but the closer time gets to their confrontation with Drake, the more they realize they must train their family and friends to assist and protect them. The two of them have a great deal to learn, as well. Libby and Preston are invaluable tutors and guides, teaching them to meditate and to see and use the energy around them. Landen has been warned that he could push Willow into Drake's arms by trying to stop her from doing something she truly wants to do. He definitely has that selective hearing thing going on that most me do; because, he did exactly what he was warned against. Now Willow is stuck in Esterious with Drake vying for her love. Can he get her back before it is too late? Let's hope so.

I enjoyed this book immensely. You begin to see things through Drake's eyes. He's not completely bad. Perhaps he can be saved from the darkness. This remains to be seen.

Reviews of Insight Series:

Insight (Insight #1) Review 

Insight Series Character Breakdown 
Embody (Insight #2) Review
Image (Insight #3) Review

*I was provided a free e-proof by the author in return for my honest review.

Insight by Jamie Magee

I want to start by thanking Cynthia at Book Reader Addicts for inviting me to participate int the Insight Virtual Book Tour. During the tour, I will be reviewing all three books and holding an awesome giveaway. One winner will win all three e-books and bookmarks. I will post the Image review on November 28. At that time, I will have Rafflecopter set up to accept entries including extra entries for commenting on all three reviews.



Title: Insight
Series: Insight #1
Author: Jamie Magee
Independently Published
April 2010

Synopsis:

Before that fateful summer night, Willow had balanced the insight of emotion, and the vivid images. That night, the figure in her nightmare marked her wrist with a star, giving her father no choice but to tell Willow a family secret that would abruptly change life, as she knew it, forever. Before Willow had time to absorb the shock of her father's secret, her soul mate that had shared every stunning dream with her, found her, and darkness captured her closest friends. In order to save them, she must weave through broken myths and the undeniable power of the Zodiac. In the end, Willow discovers that at the moment of our birth we are all given a divine gift.

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I am completely amazed that I am just now finding out about The Insight Series. Insight is a truly amazing and inspirational tale weaved with unique mythology and modern day values. The characters are each unique, with an important role to play defining destiny.

Insight begins in the midst of one of Willow's painful repetitive nightmares where she finds herself face-to-face with her tormentor of many years. She will soon find that her life is fated to be intertwined with the maker of these horrible dreams. Lucky for her, she is blessed with a loving and talented family, loyal friends, and a total kick butt soul mate. She will have to rely on everyone she knows to survive the trials that lie ahead of her. Willow is such a great protagonist. Honest, caring, loyal, and completely accepting of who she is. She is one of those heroins we love, you know...the ones that don't whine a bunch.

One thing I found slightly confusing about Insight was the amount of characters that played major roles. In the beginning, I thought I was going to have to make a chart to keep everyone straight. As I continued to read, the bonds were reinforced and each character carved out a little spot in my heart. Ms. Magee created an amazing group of interdependent characters who are ultimately striving for the same goal. Love and equality. Landen, Willow's soul mate, was one of my favorite characters. He and Willow met in their dreams, but their families have known each other for many years. This young couple will fight to save more than one world.

Another of the characters that really spoke to me was Dane. He and Willow have been friends throughout school, never more; however, Dane never hesitated to protect Willow from harm...even if the harm was herself. I was relieved to find out that Dane found his soul mate and was still highly involved in Willow's life.

I loved the overall theme of Insight. It provided a fresh outlook on fate and destiny. Willow and Landen have a difficult task ahead of them and I cannot wait to see how amazing these two will be.

Reviews of Insight Series:

Insight (Insight #1) Review 

Insight Series Character Breakdown 
Embody (Insight #2) Review
Image (Insight #3) Review

*I was provided a free ebook in return for my honest review.

Beyond (The Academy) by T.P. Boje

Title: Beyond (The Academy)
Series: Afterlife #1
Author: T.P. Boje
Independently Published

Synopsis:

Have you ever wondered where you go when you die? 

Meghan is 16 when it happens to her. 

She wakes up on a flying steamboat on her way to a school run by Angels in a white marble castle. 

It is a school everybody has to go to before they are let into Heaven. 

On the boat she meets Mick who has been dead for more than a hundred years but still looks like a teenager. He helps her past the difficult beginning at the new school in a new world. 

One day some of Meghan's roommates find a mirror in the cellar of the school and they persuade her to go through it with them - well knowing it is strictly against the rules of the school. Meghan ends up back on earth where she meets Jason. But Jason is in danger and Meghan know something important. Something that is a matter of life and death. Soon she is forced to choose between the two worlds. The one she belongs to now and the one she left.

I honestly admit that I don't read a lot of religious based literature, but Beyond (The Academy) was a truly fascinating read.  One thing I really liked was the use of second person narrative in the first chapter. Ms. Boje allows Meghan to speak directly to the reader. This is a very unusual technique seldom used in YA literature. After the first chapter, the narrative becomes first person from Meghan's point of view.  The book is based on a prominent Christian belief system and focuses on fate and the intervention of fate.

We start the story with Meghan boarding a ship headed for The Academy where she is told that she is now dead and a part of the spirit world. She has no memory of her past life except that she knows she has parents...but she has no idea who they are. While attending The Academy, Meghan will learn how to be a spirit and how to assist humans to make wise decisions in life. Problem is, Meghan will have to learn to make the same type decisions herself. I love Meghan as the protagonist. I envision great things for her. She is already strong and loyal with a good heart.

Meghan accidentally becomes privy to information she should have never seen. When she comes in contact with Jason, a living human, she realizes she has seen him before and his outcome will not be a happy one. He is destined to face a brutal ending of his life. Meghan knows she isn't supposed to tell him, but feels it is the right thing to do. Her friend Mick discourages her, siting that it is against the rules. Her internal battle between right and wrong drives her into depression, making her a target for the evil spirits. Doing the right thing is never easy.

Beyond (The Academy) was a quick and inspirational read. There was heart-ache and death but there were also times of accomplishment and joy. I always enjoy a good protagonist facing an internal battle. I highly recommend this book. I look forward to the sequel and learning more about Meghan, Mick, and Jason.

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*I was provided a free e-book by the author in exchange for my honest review.

Mortal Obligation by Nichole Chase (Review and Giveaway)

Title: Mortal Obligation
Series: The Dark Betrayal Trilogy
Author: Nichole Chase
Genre: Urban Fantasy, YA
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Synopsis:

Ree will face the darkest form of betrayal before the year is out.

Seventeen year old Ree McKenna has three goals: get through high school, convince her crush she is more than his best friend’s little sister, and save money for college. Fate, though, has other plans for her. After the untimely death of her older brother, Ree is haunted by dreadful nightmares and terrifying visions. To make matters worse, Ree has started to suspect that something dangerous is stalking her from the shadows.

A night full of frightening surprises leaves Ree with unsettling news. Gifted by the gods with unusual powers, she must devote herself to a battle that could very well lead to not only her death, but the demise of everyone she knows and loves. After all, Ree is the only mortal standing between the Earth and utter darkness.

Set in Savannah, Ga, Mortal Obligation is the first book of The Dark Betrayal Trilogy.

  

Nichole Chase has created a darkly mesmerizing adventure with Mortal Obligation. Vampires and traditional mythology intertwine to breed a fascinating new take on all things vampire. I absolutely love the world Nichole created for this book. Her characters have chemistry, although they are not all that complex. The third person narrative allows a greater understanding of everyone's successes and failures, pulling you along for the ride.

• Ree (Alastriana) - A junior in high school who is charged with the fate of the entire world - when all she really wants to do is enjoy the year, save money for college, and maybe enjoy some one-on-one time with her dearly departed brother's best friend, Paden. Ree is a little odd...she is artsy and tends to daydream a lot. She cherishes the friends she has because they are few and far between. However, her group of friends will prove to be much more loyal than she could ever imagine. Now all she has to do is survive.
• Paden - A super-hot gift from the gods...literally. Marked with the trident of Poseiden and bearing the necklace of Brigid, he is destined for huge things. Brigid's insight led to Paden being made of mixed immortal blood. The only of Ree's guardians to be blessed by two god's, Paden is an invaluable part of her team. The question is...can he be everything Ree needs and wants him to be? He was Ree's brother's best friend and made a promise to look after her.
• Juliette - is a girly-girl with lots of money but she isn't a snob. She is always impeccably dressed but she's not afraid to throw down with the guys either. She and Ree share a mutual dislike for Shannon and Michael...two "friends" of Tristan's. Juliette is one of the few friends that Ree feels comfortable with. Juliette is descended from the Japanese Sun goddess, Amaterasu.
• Bryce - Juliette's boyfriend, who she compares to Adam Sandler. The gods have granted Bryce speed, which comes in handy as one of Ree's guardians. Bryce originates from an African god...Horus. He was one of the first to foresee the need to provide extra protection to Ree. Bryce wears a ring with The Eye of Horus on it. The symbol is said to provide the wearer protection, royal power, and good health.
• Weylin - Another of Ree's illustrious guardians, he is the most hesitant to climb aboard. He is also a descendant of Poseidon's. Poseidon's mark is a trident inside Weylin's and Paden's wrist.
• Melanie - is polar opposite of Weylin. She is a little too excited to join the ranks of the guardians. She is out for revenge and loving every minute of it. The goddess Hecate is where Melanie's history lies.
• Shannon and Michael are well on their way to becoming full blown Dark Ones. They kick up the creep factor drastically. Both attend school with the others and Michael plays soccer with Paden. Everyone seems to feel the same way about this couple...they like them best when they are far away.
• Tristan - As previously mentioned, was Ree's brother. Drugs and drinking became a significant part of his life before he died in a drunk driving accident. He has trusted Paden with his sister's care, though, that may be Tristan's biggest mistakes yet, in the grand scheme of things.
• Roland - A reformed Dark One is the best way to describe this immortal being. He irreplaceable as a trainer for Ree's guardians, although, Paden spares no love for him. I found myself inexplicably drawn to Roland. Probably because he is a reformed bad-boy and we all know how I do love those guys.
• Sophie - Once a guardian herself, is now in charge of training the new Alastriana. She was given the death-touch by her sister and is now able to harness powers only granted to the Alastriana. She is tough but also kind and knowledgeable. She tends to keep secrets that could mean life or death for Ree and her friends.

I loved this book. I absolutely, positively fell head-over-heals in love with all of the characters and the mythology involved. Each of Nichole's words proved to have meaning as I read Mortal Obligation. I would read a line and then 50 pages later realize that the line had more meaning than I ever imagined. The first chapter was extremely well written giving you insight to each character and providing a perfect amount of mystery to keep you reading.

The premise of the books was fascinating to me. Two sets of gods got together and decided on a set number of battles to decide the fate of the world. Each of the battles consist of a single Alastriana, her guardian, and a Dark One. The set number of fights - 101. Battles already fought - 100. Score - tied 50/50. Ree must win or the world is lost to the Dark Ones.  Lucky for her, the rules have changed. She has five guardians plus Sophie and Roland behind her. Not so lucky for her...the Dark One she must battle will cause her more strife and grief than she could ever imagine.

Action played a larger part in Mortal Obligation than anything else; however, there was also a great amount of time spent building potential romances. None of that fall-in-love-at-first-sight-stuff. I am truly interested in seeing where Nichole takes this romance. The different aspects of different relationships she alludes to, promise to make for an interesting storyline as the series continues.

Even though the storyline is rather dark, I was left laughing out loud on quite a few occasions.

If you love vampire stories but are looking for something different...Mortal Obligation is your book. For your chance to win a ebook copy of Mortal Obligation by Nichole Chase...simply fill out the Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post. The winner will be announced on 11/18.

 

Also, do not forget to enter for your chance to win one of the grand prize packs as shown below. You may enter by commenting on this and other posts along the way.

*I was provided a free ebook by the author in return for my honest review.

Fourteen Days Later by Sibel Hodge

Title: Fourteen Days Later
Sequel: My Perfect Wedding
Author: Sibel Hodge
Independently Published
Genre: Romantic Comedy
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Synopsis:

When accident-prone Helen Grey finds a thong stuffed into the pocket of her boyfriend’s best work trousers, it’s time for her to move on. His excuse that he needed to dust the photocopier and just thought that it was a rag sounds like a lame excuse.

Helen’s life is propelled in an unexpected direction after her best friend, Ayshe, sets her a fourteen-day, life-changing challenge. Helen receives a task everyday which she must complete without question. The tasks are designed to build her confidence and boost her self-esteem but all they seem to do is push her closer to Ayshe’s brother, Kalem.

How will Kalem and Helen get together when she’s too foolish to realize that she loves him? How can he fall for her when he is too busy falling prey to her mishaps and too in love with his own perfect girlfriend? How will Kalem’s Turkish Cypriot family react when they find out?

Is it really possible to change your life in fourteen days?

If you ever need a really good laugh...sit down and read this book. Helen reminds me so much of myself, I couldn't help but laugh. I am obscenely uncoordinated...ask anyone who knows me, I fall all the dang time. Ugh. I made the mistake of reading this book late at night and nearly killed myself trying not to laugh and wake everyone up. Helen was just my kind of lady.

The book was fun, light-hearted, and inspiring. We find Helen approximately six months after she has rid her life of the cheating ex-fiance, Justin. Her best friend poses a challenge...everyday for fourteen days, Helen must do something that is outside of her comfort zone. Some of the things were normal every day things like volunteering to walk dogs...but others were a tad bit out there. Somehow, each of the challenges involved Helen running into her best friends brother, Kalem. Sadly the only times she ran into him was when something had gone horribly awry.

Along the way, Helen meets a few men who interest her. However, each one of them has a whole new set of issues that Helen can't overlook. Kalem goes out of his way to prevent one date from happening and Helen can't begin to imagine why. The further I read, the more I began to think of Kalem as Helen's challenge, then I decided it was his sanity that was being challenged.

Just a couple of my favorite quotes (there are too many to mention really)- These quotes do not contain misspellings...it's the language it was written in.

Kalem wondered over to Charlie, studying his drawing. "You might like to try drawing the whole subject next time, instead of just the penis." I glanced over at Charlie's very eyecatching piece. He'd taken up the whole paper with a ginormous willy.

[Questions from a gymn enrollment form -]

1) Sex? Answer: thanks, but no.
2) Age? Answer: thirty but look much younger.
3) Occupation address? Answer: anywhere
4) Occupational position? Answer: Standing but occasionally sitting down.
5) Do you have a heart problem? Answer: probably will in a minute.
6) Do you suffer from breathlessness during exercise? Answer: sometimes during sex but that was a long time ago.
7) Do you suffer from palpitations or unusual heart flutters? Answer: only when I think about someone special.
8) Do you have any back problems? Answer: Only when I did a handstand when I was very drunk.
9) Are you allergic to anything? Answer: men who cheat.
10) Have you had any operations? Answer: I think I had a lobotomy once, but I can't remember.
11) Do you enjoy a healthy eating programme? Answer: yes, started an hour ago.
12) Have you suffered from any illnesses? Answer: hangovers.

I was laughing so hard just typing that!!!

*I was provided a free ebook by the author in return for my honest review.

Author Interview with Áine P. Massie

 Áine P. Massie, Author of Blood's Voice and Blood Bound

I would like to welcome Áine P. Massie to Better Read Than Dead today. She has been kind enough to swing by for a great interview. Also, Aine has been kind enough to provide us with a delicious scene revolving around a Wiccan ritual...The Silent Supper. Be sure to check it out. It brought tears to my eyes.

Kristin: Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you live?

Áine: I’m originally from Florida, USA.  I now live in Wisconsin, happily away from the sun poisoning and heat J.  I live with my four younger children while writing, playing, and enjoying life with mini-monsters.  I have always loved books and, in particular, vampires, mythology, and the ‘unusual’.  I spend most of my time either with my children or writing.  When not doing that I’m reading, working on training, my healing stones, or ritual.

Kristin: What is the first book that really caught your attention?

Áine: The first?  I can remember The Cat in the Hat and The Cat in the Hat Comes Back.  I’m a big fan of Seuss… not just for his wacky kids’ books but because of his life story.  If anyone can teach perseverance, it’s Seuss.

When I was older Anne Rice’s Interview with a Vampire captured my interest and I started reading anything vampiric I could find.  That tapered off as family became more of a focus.  There are so many good books out now that I don’t even know about much less have read. 

Kristin: Did you read much as a teenager?

Áine: Constantly.  I loved to read!  I had a large bookshelf and was enamored with books.  I preferred paranormal even then.

Kristin: If you couldn’t be an author, but anything else…what would you be?

Áine: Well, I’m not just an author.  I am first and foremost a mom.  I have 6 bio-kids and one step and LOVE them all terribly.

*I love that you always place your kiddo’s first.*

Kristin: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Áine: Reality, dreams, personal experiences, books, etc.  Inspiration comes from all parts of life, or at least it does for me.  Everything from my friends that either are or were closeted to the horrors on the news, or even short lived shows that I loved… it all blends in the mind and heart and comes out on paper.

Kristin: What’s the name of your most recently published book?

Áine: Blood Bound is my current to-be-released (release has been delayed a week L ).  So my only published is Blood’s Voice, published June 1, 2011.  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.

*I’m sorry Blood Bound got delayed. I have read it and it is phenominal!*

Kristin: Who is your favorite character from this book and why?

Áine: I would have to answer the same as last time.  Even though the books are written from Anya’s POV – so far – my fav character is Declán.  He’s just so laid back and yummy.

*Ah, Declan. I love him. He is so loving and caring, strong and sensual. The perfect gentleman.

Kristin: Independently published or commercially published?

Áine: Indy Published.

Kristin: If independent…did you attempt to get commercially published?

Áine: Not on this book.  I would love to have both books re-published commercially but at this time don’t have an agent.

Kristin: Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring writers?

Áine: Write what you love and let yourself love what you write.  We often get so caught up in what others say about our work that we forget that they are only a small voice and possibly not the target audience.  Take the good from the negative and ignore the rest.  Keep writing, that’s the most important thing.  Keep writing and stay true to your vision.

Kristin: What is the most useful advice you received while writing any book?

Áine: “Let me see more of the love building.”  At one point I had taken out a lot of the lovey/relationship stuff, fearing it dragged the story down too much and thankfully I was smacked and told to put it right back where it belonged, lol.  The story wouldn’t have been ‘real’ without the love.  TY guys J

*Oh, I am so glad you chose to leave the love and relationships in the book. I am also glad that you built on the original relationship. So intense and unique.*

Fun Stuff

Kristin: The apocalypse is coming…what do you do?

Áine: Live what life I have to the fullest with all those I love and cherish.

*Agreed* 

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

Áine: I would say my kids but I’d never want them stranded anywhere.  My books, laptop, caffeine!!!, cell, oh, and all the cords and electricity needed to run them. ;)

*Definitely caffeine. And good thinking on the kids. Better they are safe.*

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

Áine: My laptop; a stack of books to be read; mp3 player playing a mix of Godsmack, Muse, Blue October, and Three Days Grace; my cell; and a picture of my 7 yo daughter receiving a reading award.

Kristin: Favorite book ever?

Áine: That changes too often.  I love books, most all books… I don’t have a favourite.

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

Áine: Louie from Interview with the Vampire, the book.  The movie was good but I love the book!

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

Áine: Seeley Booth, Bones.  Sexy, sweet, heroic, yet venerable and flawed…

*A woman with great taste. I love Seeley. I have missed him dearly over the last few months. The season premiere is Thursday! Yippee!!!

Kristin: Favorite food?

Áine: Sagg Paneer

Kristin: Favorite Movie?

Áine: Princess Bride.

Kristin: Favorite TV show?

Áine: Probably Bones.  Followed closely by Dexter. (No pointing out the irony there, lol.)

Kristin: Favorite Song?

Áine: Voodoo by God Smack

*I went to a concert once upon a time. It was a spur of the moment thing and something I didn’t typically do. It was so much fun though.

Kristin: Favorite singer or band?

Áine: Right now?  Muse.

Kristin: One food you would never try?

Áine: Chitterlings.

Kristin: The most exotic food you have ever eaten?

Áine: Alligator probably.

Kristin: Day on the beach or snow skiing down a mountain?

Áine: Snow skiing, hands down.  I love snow and the mountains, plus the last time I spent any real time at the beach I ended up with sun poisoning – not fun!

                                                                                       

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

Áine: Curled up in front of the fireplace, preferably with a nice cuddle-buddy.  :D

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

Áine: Ireland.  I would love to at least visit if not outright move there. 

Kristin: Health nut or junk food junkie?               

Áine: Honestly?  Depends on the day.  I am a vegetarian and try to eat healthfully but I do so love BBQ chips and cappuccino, lol.

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

Áine: Blood’s Voice + Blood Bound

Anything by Dr. Seuss… (does anyone else notice a theme here, lol)

Kristin: Are there any blogs or websites you frequent?

Áine: Better Read than Dead, of course.  Love it here!

Readinista, Intoxicated by Books, Laced Little Muffin’s, Earth’s Book Nook, Darlene’s Book Nook, The Writer’s Voice, Breaking Bookshelves, Book Breathers, Close Encounters of the Night Kind, Throwing Books, Geeky Girl Reviews, and too many others to think of right now.  I love blogs!

*Ahhh…thank you so much. I love having you here! You are always so kind to comment on different posts. I love hanging around your blog too. So much fun stuff going on over there.

Kristin: Places my readers can stalk you?

Blog – http://housemillar.host56.com

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/BloodsVoice

Twitter – http://twitter.com/#!/AnyaMillar
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/115857487824411469639/posts
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/anyamillar
e-Mail: anya.millar@gmail.com 

Áine, thank you so much for stopping by for a visit! I have really enjoyed our visit today. I hope you will stop by again soon. Be sure you read The Silent Supper.

Tour Recap