Guest Post - Nina-Marie Gardner

Could you talk about your writing journey history so far with I'm Not This Girl.

I started I'm Not This Girl when I was doing my MA in creative writing at the University of London, Royal Holloway. Everyone else had most of their novels finished by the end of the course, but I pretty much spent the whole year writing and rewriting the prologue to I'm Not This Girl. The book is more biographical than Sherry & Narcotics, and I wrote the first draft in about 3 months, while I was living in my mom's basement immediately after I had returned to the US after finishing my degree--I think this was all the way back in 2006. I sent that very first draft to this big agent in London who loved it, and I spent the next 3 or 4 years writing drafts until I was thoroughly frustrated and heartbroken. Looking back, I can see how this time was really valuable as I was learning to write and craft a novel, sort of feeling my way. But the book was a mess instead of being any better by the end of that time. So in 2009 I put I'm Not This Girl aside, and wrote Sherry & Narcotics, which came out in a fast, fourth month blast. That book was immediately picked up by a publisher, and I think the wonderful reviews and response it received gave me the courage to take another look at I'm Not This Girl.

I reread the very first draft I had written of I'm Not This Girl, and for what it was, I really loved it - flaws and all. I decided to dust it off, and do a few minor edits and simply publish it myself as it was. Im Not This Girl is really the prequel to Sherry & Narcotics, so I thought it would be fun to put it out there for all the people who enjoyed Sherry--even though I'm Not This Girl is a very different book, much lighter and bit more sprawling. I like to say it is my 'first pancake' book--a little warped and misshapen, but still sweet.

Book Promotion - Ashley Andrews

The Heaven I found in Hell

By Ashley Andrews

Blurb:  Alex is a Victoria's Secret model that is forced by her parents to go to Boarding School. Being downright gorgeous, she can make any guy, both male supermodels and high school boys, turn head over heels in love with her. But why is she having a hard time catching the interest of her roommate's handsome brother?

Full of sexual tension, high school parties, tease fests, and a certain reappearance from a superstar ex, this story is a wild ride of teenage humor and romance.

About the Author: Ashley Andrews was born in New York to Canadian parents.  She moved to Canada when she was a very young child. She currently resides in Toronto. For years she has been a teacher, writer, and actress. After several years of writing she decided to go ahead and publish her stories.  She can normally be found in a coffee shop typing away at her latest work. She is the author of Bleeding Love, The Heaven I found in Hell and Breaking the Arm, Healing the Heart.

The Heaven I found in Hell can be bought on Amazon Kindle at this address: http://amzn.to/NjiVlG

Book Review - The Immortal Rules

Title: The Immortal Rules
Author: Julie Kagawa
Series: Blood of Eden (book 1)
Publisher: Mira Ink
Release Date: 24 April 2012
Publisher: Mira Ink (24 April 2012)

Synopsis
In a future world, Vampires reign. Humans are blood cattle. And one girl will search for the key to save humanity.
Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten.
Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of them. The vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself is attacked—and given the ultimate choice. Die… or become one of the monsters.
Faced with her own mortality, Allie becomes what she despises most. To survive, she must learn the rules of being immortal, including the most important: go long enough without human blood, and you will go mad.
Then Allie is forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls. There she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend—a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike.
But it isn’t easy to pass for human. Especially not around Zeke, who might see past the monster inside her. And Allie soon must decide what—and who—is worth dying for.

My Review
I haven't read anything by Kagawa before, I have Iron King on my shelves but have never got round to it. (will probably try to do a run through the whole series now), but I heard so many good things about this one I really wanted to read it. 
My best friend requested it at the library where I work and it came in for her on Thursday. I saw it and was tempted. Then on Friday I reasoned that she was away for the weekend and wouldn't be at the library again until Monday, so why not? that's right I squirreled it away, brought it home and started to read. I didn't get far on Friday as i was working on my NaNoWriMo writing and then I was at work again on Saturday, but when i got home just after 4, I sat and read and read and read. I managed to get to page 400 before having to put it down and do something else, but I was hooked. I was late getting on my laptop and ended up getting nothing productive done. I then finished the book this morning and I really enjoyed it. Only problem is I really want more!
This book fits perfectly into the current market, a mix of dystopian, vampire, romance and adventure. I could see similarities with some other books, whether deliberate I don't know - the monthly blood letting happens in Morganville by Rachel Caine, the 'sectors'/areas surrounded by the Vampire city in the middle was a bit like the Districts in Hunger Games, and there were some others, but although I noticed it, this book does hold it's own and is also unique and stands up for itself. 
The book is told in four parts, 'Human', 'Vampire', 'Monster', 'Wanderer' and shows the progression of 'Allison' our protagonist. It starts in the poor areas where Allie and her friends are known as 'Unregistered' in the Fringe,  they don't have to give blood to the vampires, but because of this they are street rats, starving, abandoned and struggling to survive, also easy prey for vampires and other gangs. Allie is street smart and confident she has learnt how to survive, she stays with 3 others - Stitch who is shy and spineless, Rat who is moody and untrustworthy and Lucas, a strong leader. 
When attacked and inches from death Alison is given a choice by a rogue vampire, die there and then or be turned and become the very thing she hates. Not ready to leave the world Allie agrees to be turned. This offers a lot of questions - what will people do to remain in this world, would you become the very thing you hate?
This book almost feels like two different stories, Alison has to adapt very quickly but she can't deny her life as a street rat is over and new rules apply. Now she must learn the rules of living as a Vampire and quickly. 
I really likes Alison, she is smart, sassy and fierce, but still really wants to hang on to her beliefs and morals. She may be a vampire, but she doesn't want to be a monster. Throughout the book she faces many struggles and temptations and she must decide just what she is willing to do. She clings onto her humanity and it makes her very likeable. 
I like her Vampire master Kanin - he's a bit of an enigma, not sure what he's really fighting for, but I like his calm demeanor and presence, I hope we see more of him in future books. 
When Alison is forced to run she comes across a band of humans looking for a safe haven, she decides to stay and remain hidden in their midst. Jeb who is the leader of the group is a bit of an ass really and I don't like him at all. for someone who is supposed to care so much, he's quite heartless. Zeke - his second in command is my favourite, he has a great heart and a sense of justice and fairness, he is willing to stand up for what he believes in and you see him grow a lot in the book. He is definitely the sort of guy you would like to meet!
The book takes you on a journey, full of excitement and mystery you will literally be gripped to the pages. I wasn't sure when I started the book but it didn't take me long to be totally engrossed. Perfect for fans of vampire/paranormal and dystopian fiction. 
I think I've waffled a bit in this review, but I was really impressed with it and it's stayed with me all day, even since I've started a new book.
The only down side with this book is that it doesn't come to a final conclusion, yes it comes to a natural break and finishes with a lot of the characters but it's very clearly set for the start of the next book and I cannot wait to find out what happens next. Please Julie - write faster for me! thanks x

My Rating

Guest Post - Nadia Jones

Favorite Female Fiction Characters

When I was in high school, applying for colleges and scholarships, one of the questions I was asked was, “Which fictional character do you most closely resemble?”

It’s was an interesting question to me then, and it’s even more interesting to me now. These girls and women with whom I identified have changed me, shaped me and still live on with me.

Ramona Quimby of Beverly Cleary’s Ramona series

Ah, Ramona the Pest. She is a character for outspoken little girls everywhere. Beverly Cleary is an author who brilliantly captures what it’s like to live inside a child’s world – full of impulses and imagination, yet largely sheltered from the larger realities of life. Part of what made Ramona’s character so wonderful is that we are able to grow with her as she matures and begins to accept and fight the new realities that shape her life.

Lucy Pevensie of The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The youngest of her brothers and sisters, Lucy is the first to travel to Narnia. She is faithful, courageous and adventurous; and she is also compassionate. Her innocence and faith bind her to the magic of Narnia, and she often sees what her older brothers and sisters do not, which forces them to respect her as more than a child. 

Matilda Wormwood from Roald Dahl’s Matilda

Neglected in her home life, Matilda is a book-loving outcast who dreams of the day she can go to school to escape her family. Her immense intelligence fuels special powers that help her defeat the villains of her life, but it’s Matilda’s brave defense of her friends that makes her a true hero.

 

Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Laud Montgomery

Awkward and dreamy in her youth, Ann Shirley grows into an educated, self-possessed woman. Although she comes into the world largely alone, orphaned and dispersed across relatives, her lively imagination and spirit capture the hearts of those around her.

 

Katniss Everdeen of The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins

Katniss Everdeen is strong, yet kind. Her deep loyalty to protecting those most vulnerable launches her time and again into dangerous situations. She is focused, determined and skilled in hunting. One of her most remarkable qualities is that she faces death without hesitation, and even as conspiracies unfold and plots are launched, Katniss is able to remain courageous and loyal to her values. She is a girl-warrior, a survivor, and a truly great character.

Who are your favorites?

This is a guest post by freelance writer and blogger Nadia Jones. Nadia enjoys sharing her knowledge on topics of education and higher learning. She offers online college advice and guidance to readers throughout the blogosphere. Reach her at nadia.jones5@gmail.com.

Thanks Nadia, you actually listed most of my favourites - Lucy, Matilda and Katniss. I would add in Cat Royal (Julia Golding's Drury Lane series) and Hermione Granger (Harry Potter).

FF (74) & TGIF (57)

Follow Friday is an opportunity to discover and follow other book related blogs! Want to join? Check it out at Parajunkee.

This week's question feature is from Candace of Candace’s Book Blog

Q: Happy Father’s Day! Who is your favorite dad character in a book and why?

My Answer: I don't know many books that really have featured parents, Most tend to be the teen/main character on their own. I of course have to go to Harry Potter - and Ron's dad Mr Weasley. He is awesome! Really loves his family, knows how to have fun but is still very protective and caring. Always fighting to do the right thing and take care of the ones he loves.

TGIF!

This meme is hosted by GReads!

This Friday's Question:

 

Most Valuable Book: From your personal collection of books, which ones hold the most value to you - is it signed by the author? or maybe it's your favorite story of all time? Share it with us.

My Answer:  I have a lot of books signed by the authors and I treasure each one, but my post precious and valuable book is a Bible. It is a gorgeous white one with gold leaf edges to the pages and sits in a white box tied up with a ribbon. It was a gift when I was confirmed at Church and has a message from my parents in it. It reminds me that I am loved by my parents and by God. I am never going to be alone.

 

Happy Hopping, have a great weekend everyone!!!

 

Book Review - What Happened To Goodbye

Title: What Happened To Goodbye
Author: Sarah Dessen
Publisher: Puffin
Release Date: 2 Jun 2011
ISBN-13: 978-0141337791

 Synopsis
 Another town. Another school. Another Mclean. Ever since her parents' bitter divorce, Mclean and her father have been fleeing their unhappy past. And Mclean's become a pro at reinventing herself with each move. But in Lakeview, Mclean finds herself putting down roots and making friends—in part, thanks to Dave, the most real person Mclean's ever met. Dave just may be falling in love with her, but can he see the person she really is? Does Mclean herself know?


My Review
I'm still on my Sarah Dessen run and can't get enough. I just realised I have read all but 2 of them now, one is on my shelf ready (Along For The Ride), the other I can't get (This Lullaby) - the library doesn't have it and I can't afford to buy it. But anyway!
I liked the sound of this one, different from the others, more complex and I couldn't wait to get stuck in. I still love these covers too and I enjoy looking at them again as the story goes on and seeing how all the small pictures relate to the story.
McLean used to be happy - her parents were married and owned a restaurant together, they adored basketball and had fun, until her mum leaves and gets married to the coach of the lead Basketball team. The divorce and new marriage is splashed across the media and McLean starts to lose focus of who she is.
She decides to leave with her dad, he is employed to go round restaurants that are struggling and save them, changing menus, staffing etc. It means moving a lot. McLean finds it's easier to have a fresh start at each place, discarding her first name she settles for variations of her middle name. At a posh school in a high standing neighborhood she introduces herself as Lizbet, in the next place she is Beth, at another Liza, each one different in name and personality. Then she moves to Lakeview and before she knows it she becomes McLean again, for the first time in ages she starts to question who she really is and what she wants from life, what it's like to make friends and maybe even find love.
I really liked McLean and i was fascinated by how she reinvents herself each time, how much it must take to become a whole new person. to lose the real you. But she takes each experience with her and throughout the book you definitely see her growing as a person. She starts off quite guarded and closed off, almost like she is trying to protect herself- expecting to get hurt so not getting involved, she does a lot to look after her dad in his busy schedule and throws herself into his world more than her own.
She has serious issues with her mother, she blames her for the divorce and family split and doesn't want to see her but her mum doesn't understand - whilst I did feel a bit sorry for her mum being rejected and shouted at a lot, but you really empathize with McLean and I started to feel a bit cross with her too. I've been lucky in life my parents are still together and I can't imagine how hard it would be to deal with a situation like that but I think Dessen paints a pretty good picture.
There is a great host of characters in this book and I loved them all, they are all so different yet they fit perfectly, the nerdy geeky outcast Deb who turns out to be pretty cool (she reminded me of me in places! scary thought. :D), Riley who is feisty and full of life yet sensitive, Dave who is a closet geek and hottie but totally sensitive and a great friend ( I can see why she falls for him) and loads more. I literally felt like I was part of the Lakeview community reading this and I could picture the streets and buildings and people walking around, it was like i was there.
I loved the ending too, how it all comes together, it's beautifully done. This is one of my favourites by Dessen I think, I really loved it.

Someone said to me that each Dessen books has a short reference to one of her other books, I haven't spotted most of them, but in this book I did! McLean goes away with her Mum and Dad and end up going to a little cafe called 'Last Chance' which of course is the main place in the book of that name, clear link. I was so excited when I spotted it - I know I'm a geek! 

Anyway, in summary, well written, perfect pacing, awesome characters and a fab storyline. i loved this book. :D

My Rating

   

Author Interview - Willow Rose & Giveaway

  SAVAGE:

The year is 1983. Christian is 22 years old when he leaves his home in Denmark to spend a year in Florida with a very wealthy family and go to med-school. A joyful night out with friends is shattered by an encounter with a savage predator that changes his life forever. Soon he faces challenges he had never expected. A supernatural gift he has no idea how to embrace. A haunting family in the house next door. A spirit-filled girl who seems to carry all the answers. An ancient secret hidden in the swamps of Florida. One life never the same. One love that becomes an obsession. Two destinies that will be forever entangled.

Savage is a young adult title with some language, violence, and sexual situations recommended for ages sixteen and up

 

Willow Rose writes YA Paranormal Romance and fantasy. Originally from Denmark she now lives on Florida’s Space Coast with her husband and two daughters. She is a huge fan of Anne Rice and Isabel Allende. When she is not writing or reading she enjoys to watch the dolphins play in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

 You can find Willow:

on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willowredrose 

or twitter: @madamwillowrose 

or her blog: www.willow-rose.blogspot.com

1) What did you want to be when you were younger? 

I always wanted to be a writer. Okay some days I wanted to be a ballerina and some days an actress, but most days I wanted to be a writer. I have always told stories. I remember telling stories to my friends as a child in school and making them forget that they had to go out and play for recess. Even my teacher would listen in and he told me to keep it up and to  write them down. I wrote several notebooks filled with stories that he read. He encouraged me a lot. I went on to become a journalist and wrote my first novel when I was 28. It was published by one of the big Danish publishing houses.

2) Who was your favourite author as a child? Who is it now? 

As I child I didn't have a favorite author but I had favorite books. The Neverending Story is an all-time favorite of mine. But I also remember reading Uncle Tom's cabin several times and the Flying Dutchman. Today my favorite author is probably Anne Rice. I read all she writes. I also love Isabel Allende, John Irving and Stephen King.

3) Where do you do most of your writing? Do you have a special spot? 

I sit at my desk in my bedroom with views of the Intracoastal waters. Some days I spot dolphins and manatees. 

4) Can you tell us a bit more about  your book and how it came about? 

I was inspired to a lot of it from my daughters. I love the mind of little children. Their world is so magical. Their way of viewing everything inspired me to the world of the family of magical women living next door to where Christian lives when he first arrives in Florida. These women are so strong and powerful. I have fallen deeply in love with them. I know everybody will. 

5)Are any of the characters based on people you know? 

My main character Christian is partly based on my husband. He went to Florida when he was only 19 and lived with an insanely wealthy family very similar to the one Christian lives with.  

6) How did you choose names for your characters? 

A lot of my characters are descendants from the Timucua Indians that lived in Florida before the Europeans came so they have Native American names. Each name has a meaning. Like the woman that Christian falls in love with. Her name is Aiyana which means "Eternal blossom".

7) When you write, do you plan the storyline or just go with the flow and see where it takes you? Plotter or Panster? 

I always know my story. I have found that it is best to wait till I am almost about to burst before I sit down and begin to write. I need to know my characters very well, I need to know their background and why they are the way they are. I also need to know where the story is going. I don't write it down, but I know the plot.
8) How many books will there be in the series? I will write three about the main character Christian.  It is sort of a family-saga really. In the first book he is in his twenties and so is the woman he falls in love with. In the second book they have kids of their own and are in their thirties. In the last book they will have young teenagers. I am also planning on doing a book about Aiyana, the spirit-filled Native American girl that he falls hopelessly in love with. About her and when she first discovers who she really is. I might also do a book about her sister who does telekinesis and their grand-mother who predicts natural disasters. I love those characters so much that they each deserve their own book.

8) Can you give us any hints about book 2? 

It involves a black panther. 

9) Do you listen to music whilst you write? 

I have a thing for James Blunt. I always listen to him when I write. Never when I am not writing. It is weird. There is something about the intensity in his lyrics that makes me want to write. 

GIVEAWAY

Willow Rose is offering 2 prizes!!!!

1 x Signed Paperback copy of Savage

1 x  e-book copy of Savage.

Both open INTERNATIONAL!

All you need to do is leave a comment below saying whether you are entering the Paperback or E-book giveaway. (You can enter both) :D

Here are the rules: 

1) Competition opens Thursday 14th June
2) Competition closes on Thursday 21st June Midnight GMT
3) Leave a comment below
4) You Must be a Follower to enter!
5) One Name will be selected at random from the comments for each prize.
6) Contest is Open Internationally
7) Winners will be contacted by e-mail
8) Winners will have 3 days to reply or another winner will be selected. 



UPDATE: -The Giveaway has now finished and there were only two entries, which means both entrants gets a prize, the only thing to decide is which person gets the paperback, as both of them preferred that format.

So I will number them, dyabeu is 1 and nat is 2. Now to Random.org.
With a 50/50 chance Random.org selected - 

Number 2, meaning that Nat gets the paperback copy and dyabeu will be offered the e-book version.

Thanks to both for entering and to Willow Rose for the giveaway chances.

Giveaway Winners!

2 Giveaways finished at the beginnning of this week so I will announce them both in one post.

Firstly - the e-book copy of 'Waterspell' by Deborah J Lightfoot

 The Winner is: 'Rhonda' from 'Readalot Blog' - congratulations!!!


Next I had a 'Best of 2012' giveaway as part of Armchair BEA, as you know the prize is a Paperback version of 'Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern.

I had 31 entries, and the winner was:

Entry 27: Jennifer A of Little Shelf 

Congratulations to Jennifer!!!

She has been emailed and now has 3 days to get back to me or another winner will be chosen.

If you didn't win - don't worry, I have 2 more giveaways going on at the moment!

E-book copy of 'Freak' by E.K. Henry - international - open 11th-18th June. 

2 Winners!

E-book and Signed Paperback of 'Savage' by Willow Rose - international - open 14th-21st June. 2 Winners will be picked!

Enter now! Hope your all having a fabulous book week! :D

Guest Post & Character Interview: Charlotte Blackwell

 

The Embrace Series by Charlotte Blackwell

The story of a girl, her family and the friends she makes along the way. Sophia Pierce not only discovers herself, but the meaning of life, love, family and friendship.

Learning to live life throughout eternity can be difficult, especially as a teenager. With the help of those she trusts can Sophia find happiness, love and learn to accept not only herself, but those around her.  With her best friend Ebony a powerful witch and Nathanial a mortal by her side they must learn to make allies with shapeshifters and other supernaturals. Then they must deal with evil vampires, not to mention all the other trials teenagers go through.  

Join the Embrace Series and follow the Pierce family as they grow and see what happens when... Mackic Meets Eternity. 

Published by World Castle Publishing

charlotteblackwell.blogspot.com

I have something very exciting to show you today. I was lucky enough to meet the awesome Sophia Pierce, heroin, vampire and all out cool girl. See our interview below:

I can't believe I am sitting here with the Sophia Pierce, Welcome Sophia.  
Thank you for having me Becky.

Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to me. How are things going?
My pleasure, things are crazy as always, but going well. 
---
I understand you've been a vampire for many years. How many is it now?  
I was Embraced in 1894, so I guess that's 118 years now. 
---
Wow, that's a long time, does it feel like that long, or does time still fly by for you?   
Wow I guess that is a really long time, it doesn't seem like it's been that long. I guess that kinda dates me. (Laughs) I guess when you've been around as long as me it all just seems to fly by.
---
So after all that time, do you still remember your previous life? Can you tell us anything about your life back then?  
I do remember my mortal life. Alex, my twin and I came from a higher class family and lived a glorious life. That is until our family money began to run out. To restore our financial means I was to marry a Duke. He was god awful, and so old. I guess now I'm the old one. 

---
I bet it seems like a lifetime away now.

What was the hardest thing about the change for you? For me it would be the blood, I can't handle blood. 
It's different when you're Embraced. you don't really get grossed out by blood, it's just like a hot cup of coffee or what ever you love the smell of. For me the hardest part is being accepted. I just have a hard time understanding why anyone would want to be friends with me. It's as if I'm not worthy. The problem with being eternally 17 is you hold on to many of the emotions and such for that age. I don't grow up so to speak as others do. So remember to when you were a teenager and how everything felt like it could end the world. Well I struggle with that all the time.
---

You seem to take everything really well and your always calm and collected, or at least that's how you come over, how do you keep it up? Especially when being chased by Rogue Vampires, Werewolves, demons and whatever else there is out there! I have learned to hide my emotions fairly well. I don't like to freak ut over everything, so I take life in stride. That is the only way to get over the emotional reactions of being stuck as a teenager. If I gave into everything, my family would be outed. As for fighting all the evil beings, well that just seems to be part of my life now, at least if I want to keep those I love safe.
---
You are certainly a brave woman, What's the scariest situation you've been in? When I was attacked by the vampire back in Italy and Alex came to my rescue. I was terrified that he would get hurt as well. Then even though I was barely hanging on I could sense what was happening to him and it devastated me. 
---
I would have been running for the hills let me tell you.  
I was in my mind, believe me.

Now, all this talk of monsters is creeping me out, let's get onto the good stuff.

You have a fantastic man - Nate, and I understand you are now firmly together, can you remind the people how you met?  
Well if you were to ask him, he would tell you I ran him down in the halls at school. When I think he may have jumped in front of me. Then when I heard him and saw him, I was lost, I didn't know what to do.
---
So sweet, so was it love at first sight?
Now that I can admit it, YES love at first sight.
---
I wish I could find someone like Nate, he always seems so caring, whats the nicest thing he's ever done for you?
He is amazing, but I think how accepting he has been is the sweetess thing. He gave me confidence and I am who I am because of him. Although he is pretty romantic too and his Christmas gift to me the first year we were together was pretty amazing....no everything he does is amazing. (blushes)
---
Bless! Do you ever fight though? Most couples do. Any stories to share?
I wouldn't say we fight, we bicker...who doesn't. I don't know if there is anything share worthy. Our biggest fight has been about his mortality.
---

Well good or bad, you two seem like the perfect couple.
I sure think so. I`m so lucky to have such an amazing guy in my life.

Now, let's talk about Family. How many are in your family now?  
Hmmmm, that's tough, because I think we have extended family now. Actual Piece family members I think there's 12 including Nik, 13 if you count Elyn. Then there's all the people we consider family and wow, I think it's just hard to really set a number on how many, don't you?
---
Wow! That's a big number, but you all seem to get along so well. What's it like living with so many people?
 Well for the most part we all get a long great. I have had some issues with a certain little sister, but who doesn't. Then of course my brother who can't say out of anyone's head and mind his own business. We all have our quirks, but I love them all.
---
Who is easiest to get on with in the house? Who is the hardest?  
Florence is by far the easiest, who doesn't love her. She does so much for all of us. As for the hardest, Danika, but she is young, new and well things are improving.
---
I understand you all have powers, which ones do you have? and which power would you most like to have?  
I can heal others. I think I would love to be like Elijah and absorb others powers. Then I could do so much more, but I guess that sounds a little greedy.
---
Cool! I've always wanted to fly personally, healing powers would also be quite useful I think. It does come in handy every now and then.

Is there anything else you would like to tell your adoring fans? Any juicy news, plans for the future? Secrets to share?  
Well if I told you it wouldn't be a secret anymore, but I think so more excitement is coming our way. Then of course there is also some pretty amazing new love stories in the making in our house. I just wonder if anyone else will be coming back from the dead?

Well, thank you very much Sophia, it's been great talking to you!  
Thanks so much, it's been fun I hope we can do it again. Maybe you can join us for one of Mati's crazy New Year's parties.


I would love to join you for a party, I'll look out for your invite!

Hooked yet, you should be. You can purchase the e-books from Amazon here:

- Immortal Embrace

- Forbidden Embrace

- Mystic Embrace

- Everlasting Embrace

Need more convincing? Check out my reviews here: 1, 2, 3, 4.

Now you know you need to read them right? :D  
 

July 1st is the one year anniversary the author Charlotte Blackwell

will be doing a HUGE giveaway on her blog! Remember to stop by and take part, this is one series you do NOT want to miss! Mark the date on your diaries.

Author Bio:

Charlotte Blackwell is the talented new Canadian author of the Embrace Series. She is someone to keep an eye on for years to come, with her unique voice and way of connecting with the readers, Charlotte is bound to be a house hold name for years to come. During her younger years Charlotte was friendly and outgoing, but never really voice her opinions and felt more comfortable falling behind the shadows of those around her. Something she hope to help others avoid. She began writing as a way to express her feelings, without having to confront those around her. As Charlotte grew and had a family of her own, she learned the importance of standing up for what you believe in and always staying true to one’s self. Then one day the writing took over. Charlotte soon realized through writing she could combined her love for the paranormal and her children. Using writing as an outlet to reach out to those she cares most about, her children. Knowing the difficulties teens face, she wanted to use her stories to help her daughters understand they are not alone and now hopes to help others receive the message as well. Through doing this Charlotte discovered herself and with her husband and three children couldn’t have written a happier end for her family.

Guest Post & Giveaway - Freak!

I want to thank Becky for having me on her blog today.  I am very honored at the chance to be here.  I have a surprise for everyone.  I am giving away two e-book copies of my YA book Freak.  All you have to do is be a follower of this website and leave your contact info.

I’d love if you would tweet about this contest and mark Freak to be read on Goodreads.

Being a lower-class human born into a world where vampires rule sucks.  No matter how hard Juniper Rayne tries to fit in, she's labeled a freak.  When her dad signs the family up to take part in a reality television show, Juniper hopes that it'll give her the edge she needs to shed her freak label.

Unfortunately for Juniper, vampires aren't that accepting.

She decides to take control of her life and become a vampire hunter, instead of continuing to live in her own personal hell any longer.

She will regain control or die trying.

My name is E.K. Henry.  I’m the author of Freak.  I have always had a passion for books ever since I can remember.  I have grown up spending countless nights being swept away by my favorite books into the wee hours of the night. 

I love to receive fan mail, take requests for review copies and interviews.

You can contact me at:

Email: ek_henry (at) yahoo (dot) com

Webiste: www.ekhenry.com

Twitter: @ek_henry

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5832143.E_K_Henry

You can purchase your own copy of Freak here Amazon or here B&N.

Thanks E.K!

TO enter the giveaway - normal rules apply:

Here are the rules: 

1) Competition opens Monday 11th June
2) Competition closes on Monday 18th June Midnight GMT
3) Enter your Name, E-mail and Blog Link in the Linky List Below (email will be hidden, if you don't have a blog just enter your Facebook or Twitter page)
4) You Must be a Follower to enter!
5) One Name will be selected at random from the list.
6) Contest open Internationally
7) Winners will be contacted by e-mail
8) Winners will have 3 days to reply or another winner will be selected. 

You MUST fill in the Linky form to be in with a chance to enter. Do NOT put your details in the comments section. 
I don't have time to go through all the comments or add you on the list myself. 
All you need to do is put your name/blog name in the box that says 'Contest Entry', a link to your blog/facebook in the box that says 'Link' and then your email address in the box that says 'Email'