Welcome to Book Lovers Paradise

Welcome to my attempt at blogging. I am a true to heart bibliophile. Here I will discuss and review books as I read them. You are welcome to do the same. The only rules are no profanity, no politics, no religion, and have fun!
Donna

Wednesday, December 26, 2012


Iscariot
by 
TOSCA LEE

about the book

In Jesus, Judas believes he has found the One—a miracle-worker. The promised Messiah and future king of the Jews, destined to overthrow Roman rule. Galvanized, Judas joins the Nazarene’s followers, ready to enact the change he has waited for all his life.

But Judas’ vision of a nation free from Roman rule is crushed by the inexplicable actions of the Nazarene himself, who will not bow to social or religious convention—who seems in the end to even turn against his own people. At last, Judas must confront the fact that the master he loves is not the liberator he hoped for, but a man bent on a drastically different agenda.

Iscariot is the story of Judas—from his tumultuous childhood and tenuous entry into a career and family life as a devout Jew, to a man known to the world as the betrayer of Jesus. But even more, it is a singular and surprising view into the life of Jesus himself that forces us all to reexamine everything we thought we knew about the most famous—and infamous—religious icons in history

My thoughts

I am a huge fan of Tosca Lee.  I haven't read a book by this author I haven't liked.  This book is no exception.  Fabulous!!!

This book is a masterpiece.  It will change the way you think about a much maligned individual. 
Judas Iscariot has been demonized throughout history.  This book will humanize him.  I felt pity for the poor soul.  I do realize this is a work of fiction, but I was completely immersed in the life of the characters, all the characters.  The interactions between Judas and Jesus were just magical.  I can't say enough about this novel.  

If you've never read anything by Tosca Lee, this is a perfect book to start with,  if you have read her works, this book is the best one yet!



Wednesday, December 19, 2012

I just want to take a moment to answer a quick question.  Several people have asked me why I mainly read and review children's and young adult novels.  Well,  primarily because they are usually better written.  They are unique stories that are fun and entertaining.  I enjoy them.  Secondly, my son (age 12) and I share a Kindle.  I have the actual Kindle and he has the app on his IPad.  This means he has access to all books available on my Kindle.  I DO NOT want him gaining access to books I would not normally read with him.  I have over 1500 books in my Kindle library. Many are classics but most are children's and YA novels.  We share a common love of the works of Rick Riordan, J.K. Rowling, Brandon Mull and other novelists.  I truly enjoy watching the magic of reading become a part of his life.  A journey to another land, another time, has opened new worlds we can share together.   

Well, don't mean to ramble on, just wanted to answer the question I'm most asked from friends, family and followers.

Have a fantastic holiday season.


and




Today we welcome author
LARS GUIGNARD

about the book
Zoe Guire just talked to an elephant. Well, technically speaking, the elephant spoke to her, but either way it was weird and, as a rule, Zoe doesn't do weird. Except the thing is, when Zoe goes along on her mom's business trip to India, things get very weird, very quickly. Soon after she arrives, Zoe finds herself tagging alongside a kid named Zak, lost in a crazy city, with no money and no way home.

And those are the least of Zoe's troubles. Because if she's to believe the scary-looking snake charmer guy sitting in the corner, she and Zak have been chosen -- chosen to protect some kind of mythical animal called the Ghost Leopard from who knows what.

Now, the further they get into the mountains, the more crazily impossible things get. Carpets fly and statues talk and if either Zoe or Zak want to make it back to their parents, or the sixth grade, or anything even close to normal, they're going to have to make some new friends, learn some new tricks, and listen, really listen to that talking elephant. Because if they don't, nothing will ever be the same again.

My review

Read this book with my son, age 12.  He loved it.  There are not a lot of good 'boy' books (as he calls them) available.   He enjoyed this story.
It is a story full of magic, adventure and fun.  The kids get into some rocky patches along the way, but it adds to the excitement.  The book has a slow start, but I recommend hanging around, it picks up speed and doesn't slow down until the very end.

The two main characters Zoe and Zak are opposites, and they complement each other.  One is a thinker, who takes things slowly and the other rushes into a situation.

Overall, if your child is a fan of Harry or Percy, he/she should enjoy this book.

(4stars, and not 5 because I didn't like the ending)



Tuesday, December 11, 2012

It's here!!!! Cover reveal for the next installment of one of my favorite series:


Doorknob Society book 4
THE DETECTIVE INSPECTORS HVO

Chloe Masters life is in disarray, her best friend Edgar Magnus has been kidnapped by her mother. The Detective Inspectors of the HVO have been compromised and appear to be helping in the crime. All but one that is, Declan Hardcastle, a young DI who is more than willing to help Chloe in her quest. But is he looking for more than just friendship?
Her friends are spread far and wide; Jess has begun her apprenticeship in Paris while Slade is working for the Impossible Engineers. Nightshade has returned but is he the same man and can he truly be trusted?
When Chloe learns Edgar’s location it's a race against time to stop her mother’s plans and save her friend all while keeping everyone she loves alive. But the question becomes... does Chloe plan on getting out alive?

The Cape Beanery Chronicles (Short stories) Kindle | Kobo | Nook
The Doorknob Society (Book 1) Kindle (Exclusive to Amazon)
The Impossible Engineers (Book 2) Kindle | Kobo | Nook
The Mapmakers Union (Book 3) Kindle | Kobo | Nook





Sunday, December 9, 2012

Today we welcome ROBIN L SANDERS 
author of  AN 8 TRACK IS 81 CHAPTERS

about the book:


When a Social Studies teacher assigns a special project to six high school students, (Richard, Shelly, Nathan, Charles, Morgan and Britt) they receive a lesson that may indeed change lives of many worlds. As they work on the problems set before them they come to realize that the typical real world issues that each student had been dealing with doesn’t look all that bad. As the unlikely group of misfits explores the project, they discover strengths that they were completely unaware they had.  

For seven whole days they stay in a mysterious book unlocking puzzles, fighting demon-possessed statues, creating bonds with a memorable cast of characters and fighting a villain who controls the powers of the heavens. Mr. Hutchenson, a professor of social studies at St. Cardinals, is a man who plays a large part within this story, but just as the kids have to discover that, so does the reader. These six kids work on finding that strength by not only fighting the enemy, but the enemy within.



Genre – Young Adult / Fantasy

Rating – PG13

Connect with Robin L Sanders on Facebook & Twitter

we have a guest post from Robin


What are the mistakes you see in beginner writers?

by Robin L Sanders

One of the beginning mistakes that we all make as writers is having the idea of writing a great story but not knowing how or where to start.  I would often have times of imagining an epic battle but haven’t a clue where to place the scene in the middle of my story.  Some people would prefer to write a story from beginning to the end, which is practical but not possible for many.  Other writers would start off by breaking their story into outlines so whenever they’re lost, they could figure out where to go next or start somewhere else then come back to the scene later.  There was one method I learned from a screenwriter about writing the scenario that you’re most passionate about and begin from there whether forward or backwards.  When I started I had this belief that if you didn’t start from the beginning then you’re not doing it right.  Truth is there is no actual rule of how to start writing a novel, you could just do it the way you feel the most comfortable.  It’s your work so do it the way you feel, do what you want to do, that’s what I learned.

Another big mistake that most writers often do is fail to develop a tough skin.  Writing is considered a literary expression in visual art; the writing industry is filled with critics that live by an established modern code.  Whenever they see something that is of the ordinary, they would either praise or insult the writer without any warning.  Some critics can be spiteful and would wake up every morning with their eyes set on any literature they disliked especially if it was a person. In other words develop the strength to accept criticism.  Constructive criticism is very important and can help sharpen and hone in on your writing skills as well as style.  Actual criticism whether good or bad could be harmful but knowing when and how to handle it could be a big step to becoming a fearless author.  Some writers developed the ability to use negative criticism as a source of fuel to produce more positive work while others are capable of weighing the differences of good and bad criticism.

Horribly written and edited work is a big mistake when publishing a book; placing commas, periods, and proper use of words into sentences without producing fragments are essential elements to having a good novel.  Even if you’ve written over a hundred thousand words in an epic novel it wouldn’t make any difference if you’ve spotted over thousands of errors.  Finding a professional editor can be hard and expensive especially if he’s a real good one.  Finding the right editor is also difficult and could take a long process if they’re real busy or accepting inbox mail from other clients.  I remember being rejected by professional editors from left to right over a years span and when I found one he wasn’t a real good one.  Later I had a friend who was a freelance English teacher who had taught English overseas and decided to edit my work with pay of course.

There can be many major set backs in the writing industry but the greatest mistake that could be ever made is to tell someone about your ideas without copyright protection.  Plagiarism is definitely a crime and is seen as literary suicide in the writing world but that doesn’t stop any money grubbing backstabber who can spot that as a business opportunity.  Working on a story while brainstorming new and creative ideas is definitely hard work.  The lands filled with characters that we created are apart of our lives, as we constantly have to live the roles of each and every one of them.  The stories that we create have an emotional connection with all of us and to have someone take that away from us is not a good feeling at all.  That is why it is very important on having your writing protected by any means as possible.  I’m not stating that it’s bad to exchange any ideas, instead keep the ideas that you want and give some of the ones you’re not interested on keeping to good use.

THANK YOU ROBIN.  ROBIN IS VISITING DURING HIS ONGOING BOOK TOUR, BROUGHT TO YOU BY




Tuesday, December 4, 2012

today we welcome author Vanna Smythe

Duty versus love is the one battle warrior Kae doesn’t know how to fight.

Kae has trained his entire life to become an elite Protector of the Realm. But when he earns that honor he finds himself protecting something far greater: the Veil separating two worlds. On one side of the Veil lie untold stores of magic. On the Realm’s side, magic is all but obliterated, and Kae is one of the few who can use it. The priests who secretly rule the Realm will do everything they can to control his growing magical abilities. He’s willing to pay the price, even though it comes between him and Issa, the princess he loves.

But the Veil has weakened over a thousand years and powers on both sides will stop at nothing to keep it intact. Strangers from the other side have kidnapped Issa to take her across the Veil and sacrifice her to strengthen it. Kae is the only one who can find her. If he goes after Issa, he loses everything he’s worked so hard for. But if he chooses duty over love, Issa will die.

Genre – Fantasy

Rating – PG13

We have an interview today with Vanna


If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future? 
I would most certainly go into the past. I love the Middle Ages for some reason, though I would also love to travel back in time to the Roman Empire and Ancient Greece.

If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose? 
I’ve limited myself to writers here.  This is my list: Shakespeare, Ernest Hemingway, George RR Martin, Jane Austen and J.R.R. Tolkien.

What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year?
The Hobbit  I can’t wait to go see that!

Favorite places to travel?
Italy and France.

What’s your favorite season/weather? 
Spring. I love watching nature wake up after the long winter slumber.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?
I think there’s a part of me in everyone of my characters.  Though some are more like me than the others.

What’s one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors? 
Keep learning your craft and never stop believing that you can succeed.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book. 
My story has love and hate, duty and honor, lies and deceit, happiness and sorrow, and  more, all wrapped up in a single package.

Thank you Vanna.
I look forward to finishing your book.  I received it the other day, I will post a review on this blog and on Amazon/Goodreads when I've finished.  Sounds like you have a winner on your hands!

Vanna has offered a guest post for us

Symbols of Love, Friendship and Life in Protector – White Roses, Wind and Rivers

by Vanna Smythe

All books contain symbols, which are the things that really create that emotional connection between the reader and the story. I have woven several such symbols into the story of my Anniversary of the Veil series, the most important ones being those for Love, Friendship and Life. And they are…

Love Symbolized by White Roses

My two main characters, Kae and Issa, have been best friends for years, but once Kae finally becomes a fully pledged Protector he finds himself falling deeply in love with Issa.  White winter roses, Issa’s favorite flower, symbolize this love. White winter roses are also the flowers Kae’s long dead father would make out of cloth in the dead of winter and leave for Kae’s mother to find.

Friendship Symbolized by Wind

Throughout the story of Protector and the rest of the Anniversary of the Veil Series, the theme of strong friendship between Issa and Kae is one of the most prevalent ones.  This deep friendship they share is symbolized by wind.  Strong gusts of wind blow off the Taiel Sea that borders the capital city. The gusts are so strong that you can lean right into them when standing on the edge of a cliff and you will not fall.

Kae and Issa did this as children, playing on the cliffs that line the shore of the Taiel Sea. Issa is forever afraid that the wind will fail, that the gust will not be strong enough to prevent them from falling into the raging waves.  But the wind never fails, just as their friendship is stronger than anything else.

Life Symbolized by the River

In the world of Protector, the energy of life, the Life Force, flows through all living beings, yet the flow is stronger in some than in others. This flow is like a river, raging in some, barely a stream in others. The ones in whom the flow is strong can manipulate the Life Force, use it to perform a sort of magic that allows them to be in two places at once, feel other people’s emotions, even read their thoughts.

The flow of the Life Force can also be released from certain people, its flow channeled to right a wrong in the world.


Thanks again Vanna.

















Sunday, December 2, 2012


It's a party...a giant release party.
NOAH ZARC BOOK TWO




WANT TO READ A PIECE OF THE BOOK?  
I LOVED IT!!

my thoughts

This is a fabulous book.  If you've read the first book, you know Noah is a paraplegic who never lets his handicap bring him down.  This book starts off with a bang, literally, asteroids whizzing past Noah's spaceship, yes, I said a SPACESHIP.  Noah is an amazing character.  You will love him and his friends.  They live on Mars with Gramps.

This book has all the action and space/time jumping we loved from book 1.  Personally, I think it's better than the first book. .  Noah has grown up.  He has a wonderful middle grade style romance that adds to the story.  Adina is a wonderful character.  A girl trying to fit in with Noah's family. 

All I can tell you, if you liked book one, you will LOVE Cataclysm.  What's the cataclysm?  Something that made Earth uninhabitable. 

D. Robert Pease has once again written a perfect book for middle graders. My son tells me"It's a great book for boys.  Boys don't want to read about shopping and clothes!  We want spaceships and time travel."   

I can't give too much away, my 12 year old hasn't yet finished the story.  I will give a more complete review, along with his review when he finishes.  Right now he's putting the finishing touches on a book report for school, then he'll finish this book.  I did, however, hear him say he wants a 'Screaming Eagle spaceship' for Christmas....


 
“I can’t believe we’re seeing this.” Draben floated next to Adina, admiring the view. “If school was this cool, I probably wouldn’t skip so often.”
Off to our left, the curve of the Martian horizon glowed with dawn. Several streaks of light appeared in the lower atmosphere.
“Wait for it,” I said.
A bright flash exploded in the still-dark half of the planet. Another. Then another. We followed an asteroid as it hurtled toward the surface.
“This is as close as we get.” I pulled back on the yoke, bringing the ship out of a dive. The asteroid continued on.
Moments later, the ball of rock smashed into the red Martian soil. The control room filled with light.
We gasped at the intensity of the explosion. Without a sound, a shockwave expanded around the impact, throwing debris for kilometers in every direction. A plume of red dust launched into the air and boiled upward toward us.
Adina turned from the window. “How many will they crash into the planet?”
“I don’t remember. I think they worked over the course of several weeks—pulling asteroids from the belt between Mars and Jupiter. After another couple decades, the dust in the atmosphere caused the temperature to rise, melting the polar ice caps.”
I waved my hand toward the planet. “This is where everything began. How the terraforming of Mars—”
An alarm blared. “Collision imminent. Perform evasive maneuvers immediately.” The computer spoke casually over the siren.
I yanked the yoke right. Adina and Draben slid left along the windshield, grabbing for any handhold they could find. I glanced at the proximity display. Several pulses of light streamed toward the ship.
“Hold on.”
Using my neuro-implant, I pushed my mind into the ship, a DUV IV class I had named Screaming Eagle. I entwined my thoughts with the control system. The external cameras became my eyes. The flailing bodies of my two friends receded from thought as I focused on keeping the ship intact.
An asteroid had broken up after the terraformers nudged it in the direction of Mars. Three of the smaller pieces, a meter or two across, flew closest to the ship. There’d be no way to dodge them all.
“Computer, route all available power to the shield modulators on the starboard wing.” I spun the ship so the port wing would squeeze between two of the asteroids.
The smallest of the three flew barely above the leading edge of the starboard wing. For a moment, I thought it would miss entirely, but then blue and purple sparks exploded around the ball of rock as it scraped along the steel.
The shield’s magnetic field tugged at the iron within the asteroid, actually working like a dampening system. The asteroid slowed enough that it didn’t tear into metal. The rock slid off the back of the wing and continued on toward Mars.
The rest of the asteroid, including the largest chunk, zipped past. The Screaming Eagle shot out into clear space.
I pulled my mind from the computer, back into the cockpit. Draben floated spread-eagle against the bulkhead above the windshield. Adina drifted over my head. She had a big bruise forming under her right eye.
“Are you two okay?”
They looked at each other. Their faces were white, but they managed a smile and pushed themselves toward their seats.
Adina buckled herself in. “I’m fine. Draben socked me in the eye when you spun us between those asteroids.” She grinned at Draben as he worked his way into his seat. “I’m sure he didn’t mean it.”
Draben looked ready to hurl. “I’m sorry, Adina. I—I was trying to help you. I thought we were dead.”
“Nah,” I said. “I had everything under control. Probably a good time to go home, though.”
We looked at each other and smiled weakly.
“I told you, we should have gone back to see my dad when he was my age.” Draben laughed. “I’m pretty sure we wouldn’t have had to dodge asteroids, then. But no, you said it wouldn’t be safe.”
I checked to see if the ship was ready to make the jump. “What are you talking about? I kept us safe the whole time.”
Draben winked at Adina. “Yeah, as long as no one finds out about this little excursion.”
The smile faded on my lips as I thought of what Gramps would say if he found out. What was I thinking? Of course he’d find out. He always found out, and he’d let me have it.
After we came to live with Gramps on Mars, for what Dad called ‛a taste of normal life’, I discovered Gramps’ occasional temper. Not at all like Dad. Sometimes, I worried if I was about to be swallowed by an alien, Dad wouldn’t be able to yell at me to run. He’s just soft-spoken.
But Gramps, he can let it out. When he get’s fired up about something, get out of the way. Then I met Haon, and it all made sense.
Don’t get me wrong, Gramps wasn’t mean, just vocal. There were times when I caught him silently staring off at nothing. I could tell he was thinking—remembering something. But when I'd ask, he’d just sit there. I think that was even worse than the alternative.
But this little adventure? It wouldn’t bring out the quiet Gramps. Nope, I was in for it. My heart quickened, and sweat beaded on my forehead as I set the coordinates for home.
“What’s the matter, Noah? You’re as white as an arctic fox.” Nothing got past Adina.
“I was thinking about—”
She smiled at me. I forgot Gramps and the trouble I’d be in.
I couldn’t figure out what to think about Adina. Ever since I rescued her from the Ice Age—well, since she stowed away on our ship—I got these strange feelings around her. What made things worse was everyone treated her like another member of our family. Was I supposed to think of her as my sister?
My geek brother, Hamilton, was no help. He didn’t seem to have time for girls. And ever since Adina and I came to live with Gramps in New Cairo, Draben was always around. He certainly didn’t think of Adina as his sister.
“So, are we getting out of here, or what?” Draben stared at me. “You really need to pay more attention. Otherwise, we’re sure to get pummeled by another one of those asteroids.”
I shook my head clear. “Right. Um, sorry. Just thinking about how much trouble we’re gonna be in.” I turned to the display. “Computer. Make the first jump.” I glanced sideways at the two of them. Draben rolled his eyes at Adina and she giggled. Yeah, I’m not sure I should be asking Draben what to do about Adina. I think maybe he has his own ideas.
***
The excitement of our trip lasted exactly three minutes after we landed back on Mars in the present time. The moment we stepped off the ship, police dressed in trim, white uniforms and matching helmets surrounded us. Their face-shields were tinted, so I couldn’t make out their eyes, but I knew we were in trouble by the way they waved their plasma rifles around.
“Ugh,” I said. “The registry!”
Adina nodded. Draben looked confused. He’d figure things out, soon enough.
One of the cops stepped forward, his gun held at the ready. “We’ve been notified of an illegal time-jump.” His voice sounded synthesized through his mask. “You will submit to a scan.”
We were each assigned a thug who commanded us to raise our arms. Draben and Adina were forced, none-too-gently, to stand with their legs apart. They waved a scanner around their bodies.
My guy scanned me while I sat in my magchair. The wand beeped, hummed and finally chirped, “Scan complete”. The cop who checked me glanced at the display and nodded toward his commanding officer.
Adina was approved, too. She’d been added to the registry when Mom and Dad made her an official member of our family. Draben, on the other hand, got a shake of the head, and immediately found himself in handcuffs.
“Draben Alexander Breckenridge, you are under arrest for unauthorized time-travel. Come with me.” The cop grabbed him by the arm and started dragging him away.
“Stop!” I said. “He’s with me.”
The commander turned back. “I realize that. But it was his choice to break the law. If it were up to me, I’d take you all in, but my orders are clear.” He pointed at Adina and me. “You two are free to go home.” He pulled Draben along again.
“Don’t worry,” I said. “We’ll get you out.”
Draben glanced over his shoulder and smiled before disappearing in a mass of white-suited cops. I was shaking, but from the stories Draben’s told, he’s pretty familiar with the feel of cuffs around his wrists.
“I should have remembered the registry,” Adina said.
“Yeah. Me, too. It totally slipped my mind that he wouldn’t get past the scanners.” I pushed my chair in the direction of the magtrains.
“Let’s go talk to Gramps. I’m sure he can get things cleared up.”
Adina seemed skeptical. “Let’s hope so.”
***
“You did what?” Dad glared at me, his eyes blazing in anger.
“I—”
“Don’t.” He waved his finger at me.
Mom didn’t appear angry, mostly disappointed. “Noah, this is not acceptable.”
As soon as I’d gotten home, Gramps called Mom and Dad on the holo-phone. Their shimmering images sat across from me at the kitchen table. Why couldn’t they be somewhere they could only transmit audio? Or, better yet, back in time so Gramps couldn’t reach them at all?
“Well, I’d promised Draben a trip last time we were on Mars.” I nuzzled my dog, Obadiah, who sat on my lap. He always knew when I was in trouble. He did what he could to protect me from the tongue-lashing I was about to get. Gramps had told Adina to wait outside till Mom and Dad were done with me.
Tears filled Mom’s eyes.
“You always told me to keep my promises.” Ugh. Why can’t I keep my dumb mouth closed?
“Don’t pull that one on me,” she said. “You knew this was wrong the moment you boarded the ship. No, the moment you thought about boarding the ship.”
Dad took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, Noah, but I’m going to have to take away your piloting privileges.”
“What?” I couldn’t believe my ears. “You said I was too talented a pilot to keep on the ground. You said I had a gift.”
“You knew the rules. You were allowed to fly, only if you told us, or your grandfather, where and when you were going.” He looked at Gramps standing behind me. “Did he tell you about this little trip back to see the asteroids?”
I didn’t hear Gramps say anything, but he must have shaken his head.
“I didn’t think so.” Dad frowned.
“We had that project at school. What better way to study the terraforming of Mars?” I knew I was grasping at straws. No one else in my class had a time-traveling spaceship. Obviously, we didn’t need one to get a good grade in history.
“Until further notice, you are not to set foot on any ship capable of extra-atmospheric flight, understood?” He had a look on his face that said the conversation was over.
“What about Draben?”
“I’ll call Prime Senator Sarx’s office. We’ll get it straightened out.”
I had to try one more time. “Mom—”
“What? Do you think I’m going to contradict your father?”
“Enough, Noah.” Dad’s face contorted in anger—a hundred-year-old face I hardly recognized sometimes. After everything he’d done. Going back in time. Living all those years on the moon so he’d be ready to stop Haon. To save us. This was how I returned the favor.
“Are we clear, son?” Dad asked.
“I get it. I’m grounded.” Literally.


Release Party Notes

Noah Zarc: Cataclysm, the second book in the Noah Zarc series, is about a boy named, surprisingly enough, Noah Zarc. If you haven’t read the first book, Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble, then you probably want to start there. But if you are well-versed in all things Zarc, then take a gander at the description of the next book below. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Noah Zarc: Mammoth TroubleOVERVIEW
Thirteen-year-old Noah Zarc rockets to Venus in a quest to learn more about his past. He refuses to believe his father is really the monster everyone says he is. Could there be valid reasons for everything he’s done, including abandoning Noah at birth?

While searching for answers to secrets no one wants to talk about, even those that have remained hidden for over a thousand years, Noah becomes embroiled in a mission which could cause the greatest cataclysm in the history of the solar system. And the name, Noah Zarc, might be forever linked to the most devastating crime in humanity's existence, all because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Get your copy today by visiting Amazon.com (available in paperback or as an eBook.) Other online retailers listed below.

CASH and PRIZES
Guess what? You could win a $25 Amazon gift card as part of this special release party. That’s right! Just leave a comment below saying something about the post you just read, and you’ll be entered into the raffle. I could win $25 too by having the most comments. So tell your friends to stop by and comment on this post too! You have until the end of December to comment.
Also, we will be giving away one pair of signed books (Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble, and Noah Zarc: Cataclysm) to one winner as well.

D. Robert PeaseTHE AUTHOR
D. Robert Pease has been interested in creating worlds since childhood. From building in the sandbox behind his house, to drawing fantastical worlds with paper and pencil, there has hardly been a time he hasn't been off on some adventure in his mind, to the dismay of parents and teachers alike. Also, since the moment he could read, books have consumed vast swaths of his life. From The Mouse and the Motorcycle, to The Lord of the Rings, worlds just beyond reality have called to him like Homer's Sirens. It's not surprising then he chose to write stories of his own. Each filled with worlds just beyond reach, but close enough we can all catch a glimpse of ourselves in the characters.

Discover ways to connect with the author by visiting his site at www.drobertpease.com


THANK YOU! for visiting. And don't forget to comment below for that chance to win the $25 Amazon gift card. And of course head on over to your favorite online book store and buy a copy of Noah Zarc: Cataclysm, for you or for the kids in your life.

Amazon Paperback | Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble Nook | Kobo | Amazon UK


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, November 30, 2012

It's coming....an amazing COVER REVEAL!!
The Doorknob Society Book 4

will be here before you know it!
Keep your eyes out for 
THE DETECTIVE INSPECTORS
DOORKNOB SOCIETY BOOK 4
due December 12th

I LOVE this series!  It's everything a book should be, part romance, part action, part STEAMPUNK...and a whole lot of fun.
Great characters, intrigue....

previous books in the series
all available at 
Amazon.com

The Doorknob Society

Saturday, November 24, 2012


YA Urban Fantasy/ SteamPunk/Paranormal
Title: The Doorknob Society
Author: M.J. Fletcher



Date Published: February 9, 2012

Synopsis: 

Chloe Masters’ world changes in a heartbeat and all she 

did was touch a doorknob. 

When she was young Chloe’s mother vanished. Wracked 

by feelings of abandonment and anger she lost herself 

traveling with her father’s magic act, where illusions 

were part of her everyday life. Yet everything changes 

when they are pursued by a mysterious man in black out 

to kill her father. Touching a doorknob activates abilities 

she never knew she had and she finds herself thrust into 

a world of ancient societies and secrets.

When her father disappears it is a race against time to 

find answers before she loses what’s left of her family. 

Now Chloe must choose who to trust, the man who will 

do anything for her or the one she can’t stop thinking 

about.


My review of The Doorknob Society

Ok. this is one incredible book. I couldn't put it down! At first I thought it was very similar to the story of a certain young wizard...multiple groups of power, each student at a special school had to 'declare' themselves to a group...Well, I couldn't have been more wrong. This book is just amazing!
The characters are unique. They are able to form a very strong emotional bond between them, which is great because when the initially met, they almost hated each other.

Enough about my gushing about this book. My thoughts? Read this book!!! The main character is Chloe Masters. She is the daughter of a blended marriage. Her dad is a former member of The Doorknob Society and her mom, well, you have to read the book to find out where her mom fit into the picture. Chloe and her friends, Edgar, Slade, James and Jess form a strong bond that even the axis of evil could not destroy. They are just teenagers who must fight for what is right, against all odds. Each and every character has a distinct personality, fun, snarky, loveable...but they all mesh together perfectly. This book was so well written, I cannot praise the author enough.
This is a book that will appeal to a wide audience.

This is book one of a series. I hope I get the opportunity to receive an ARC of book two. I cannot wait to see what happens!

I received this book from the author for an honest review.



Starting  November 26th "The Doorknob Society" will be free on Amazon for three days till the 28th





Chloe Masters’s world changes in a heartbeat and all she did was touch a doorknob. 

James Nightshade has been on Chloe’s mind since the day she met him. Arrogant and frustrating, she 

thought she had put him behind her when she chose Michael Slade.


When the secret she is seeking leads to questions about the death of Nightshade’s former girlfriend, she 

has no chose but to bring him into the investigation. A move she will come to regret. 

Danger awaits them around every corner as they search for answers. In the end a choice will need to be 

made, but is Chloe strong enough to make it?

My review of The Impossible Engineers

Usually when I read a book series, subsequent books aren't quite as good as the first. Well, I'm happy to say that's not the case with THE IMPOSSIBLE ENGINEERS. It happens to be EVEN BETTER than the Doorknob Society. We learn more about the characters, a lot more. They are now like old friends. I wasn't so sure about Chloe in the first book, now I want her for my best friend! Team Nightshade or Team Slade? I'm glad I picked the right team. Edgar is still my favorite. We are introduced to a few new characters in this installment. Faith, Jasper, Gavin and of course, Talia Grimm-Masters. The book just flows.. It's easy to read and a perfect continuation of book one. Action packed from the beginning right through to the end. Only, it's not an end. What society group is featured in the next book? Hmmm...I can't wait to read the next book.

MJ Fletcher has created an amazing series with fabulous characters and situations. Remember while you are reading, these are high schoolers. Just kids really. I found myself glued to the pages of the book. Couldn't put it down, I was too afraid I would miss something. I reread pages over and over to see if I missed clues about certain people.

I look forward to the rest of the books. I give this book 5 stars..and recommend you read The Doorknob Society and The Impossible Engineers.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I honestly love it!!!!




M.J. FLETCHER

Author Bio
MJ Fletcher is the creator of the comic book series Adam Zero: The Last Man of Earth published by Ronin Studios. He's also been published in Hope: The Hero Initiative and Digital Webbing Presents. The Doorknob Society series is his fist book series and he's thrilled about it. He lives near the beach with his wife, daughter, dog, and a crotchety cat.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, November 20, 2012



RaShelle Workman

Worlds divided them. Chance brought them together. Only love will save them. 

In book 2 of the Immortal Essence series, Venus must enter her planet's Hell, and complete three trials in order to free her parents, and save her soulmate. 

SUMMARY:

Venus has become immortal, just as she always wanted. In the process she hurt Zaren, lost Michael, and destroyed her family. 

At least that's what she believed.

Turns out Ramien, the god of her planets' underworld, has her parents, and Michael. 

To save them, Venus makes a deal. She must complete three trials. They seem impossible. They certainly won't be easy. Worst of all, someone she loves won't make it out alive.

More praise for the Immortal Essence series:

“I… felt like I was literally out of this world for a while.” Melissa Lemon, author of Cinder and Ella
“I love a book where the details fit together like pieces in a puzzle…” Rachel Morgan
“It’s superb!!! I loved the multiple points of view. I loved Venus. Michael was tough to like at first, but by the end – man, oh man, did I fall hard for him. Zaren is yummy! I want a guardian like him. Heck, I want a man like him! AND THOSE BOOTS. PLEASE, PRETTY PLEASE CAN I HAVE A PAIR?” Jenna Heartsong



My thoughts

I did enjoy this book, although not as much as EXILED (first in the Immortal Essence series)  This book felt rushed, as if the author was in a hurry to finish the story.

Venus and Michael?  Don't think so.  I love the character of Zaren.  I like Michael, but not as much as Zaren.

Certain events that occurred in this book put me off the series.  I will get the third book, just to find out the ending, but I'm not happy with the way things are going.


Genre – YA / SciFi / Romance

Rating – PG13



We are part of Orangeberry sponsored blog tour.



guess what book is available today....
TIMELESS by Michelle Madow....

This is the third and final installment of the Transcend Time Saga...and it's a wonderful book.

about the book:

IT'S A RACE AGAINST TIME.

In Remembrance, Lizzie and Drew changed the course of fate so they could be together. 

In Vengeance, Chelsea set fate back on its original, deadly path. 

Now, strange things keep happening to Lizzie. Things that are omens of darkness to come. A curse has doomed her to die an early death, just as she did in her past life. To make things worse, even if she can figure out who cast the curse, it's irreversible. There's only one option left for her to save herself. It's crazier than anything she's heard yet, and to do it, she'll need Drew and Chelsea's help.

Because to make things right, they must go back to when it all began.....

My thoughts:

I loved this book.  It's the end of a great love story.  If you've read

and


you'll remember the curse put on Lizzie.  Lizzie, Drew and Chelsea have to go back in time to undo the damage of the curse, to save Lizzie's life.  The story isn't cut and dry.  You don't know what's going to happen each step of the way.  Michelle does a wonderful job keeping the reader guessing until the very end.   Most of my questions were resolved at the end of the story, but not all.   

I love the story, especially the character.  They are flawed but real.  I especially love Drew, he is a real person, warts and all...just kidding, he doesn't have warts, but he does have a lot of flaws.  I think it's what makes these characters so real.  They are not perfect.

I am a believer in reincarnation, so that wasn't a problem for me. 

Read the book, but read the first two in the series first.


TIMELESS, the third and final part of the Transcend Time Saga by Michelle Madow, released on November 20, 2012. 

The Transcend Time Saga is about a high school student named Lizzie who has been reincarnated from Regency Era, England, but doesn’t realize it until she meets her soul mate from the past and he triggers her memories to gradually return. The series began with REMEMBRANCE (published July 25, 2011), and continued with the short story VENGEANCE (published December 8, 2011). The series has sold a significant number of copies so far, and has received much praise from reviewers. 

In celebration of the release week of TIMELESS (November 20, 2012 – November 27, 2012), two special weeklong deals will be occurring:

The e-version of REMEMBRANCE will be reduced from $2.99 to $0.99 on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. 
Anyone who purchases TIMELESS during the release week is eligible to receive a free personalized REMEMBRANCE bookmark signed by Michelle Madow. To claim a bookmark, email timeless@michellemadow.com with your name, mailing address (as it should appear on the envelope), and proof of purchase (a screenshot/photo of your purchase confirmation, or a photo of TIMELESS on your e-reader.) This offer is international. 

Quotes from Reviewers about TIMELESS

"The combination of time travel, magic, and love makes Timeless an unforgettable page turner!"
-For Those About to Read

"Timeless had great twists, particularly towards the end. For something inspired by a Taylor Swift song, Michelle has come up with a great series!"
-Addiction to Words Reviews

"Just when I think I know what to expect, Michelle throws me a curveball! It was spectacular. And marvelous. And a little bit daring, which is what makes Timeless stand out so much! 
-Sparkles and Lightning

Quotes from Reviewers about REMEMBRANCE

"If you were to take a dash of Romeo and Juliet, a handful of Pride and Prejudice, and a pinch of a Disney fairytale, you'd probably come up with Remembrance!"
-Gilbert & Gomez

"I enjoyed everything about Remembrance. The dialogue was fantastic, the pace moved perfectly, the romance was charming, and the story was brilliant!"
-Shortie Says

Author Websites

Official Website: www.michellemadow.com 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/michellemadow (@MichelleMadow)
Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.com/RemembranceBook 
Facebook Personal Page: www.facebook.com/MichLMadow 

Purchase Links

REMEMBRANCE $0.99 Specials

TIMELESS

AND NOW, A GUEST POST FROM MICHELLE MADOW

Top Five Songs that Inspire Me to Write
When I wrote Remembrance, I created a playlist that I listened to while writing! Here are the top five songs from that playlist that I found most inspiring. 

1) “Love Story” by Taylor Swift
I suppose this one was obvious, since “Love Story” inspired the entire story of Remembrance! Every time I listen to it or watch the video I think about Lizzie and Drew’s story. 

2) “Change” by Taylor Swift
This song inspires me to keep working and going for my dreams, and hope that good things will happen!

3) “How to Save a Life” by The Fray
This song reminds of the end scenes of Remembrance. If there’s ever a Remembrance movie, I imagine this song would have a part in the trailer! 

4) “White Horse” by Taylor Swift
This song perfectly embodies Lizzie’s frustration when she feels like Drew is pushing her away.

5) “Worth the Fight” by Across the Oceans
This is the song in the Remembrance Book Trailer! For me, it embodies the entire feel of the book. 
*More information on the Remembrance playlist, including a Spotify playlist so you can listen to it yourself, can be found HERE.

Thank you, Donna, for having me on Book Lover’s Paradise!

Thank you Michelle...keep writing, we love your work!!!



Michelle Madow was inspired to write Remembrance after seeing Taylor Swift's "Love Story" music video while a junior at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL. The song and video gave her the story idea about a high school girl reincarnated from Regency Era, England. She handed in the first chapter as a homework assignment for class, and when her teacher and classmates wanted her to continue writing, she decided to go for it. By the end of the school year, her first novel was completed!
For more information on Michelle and her books, visit www.michellemadow.com.
Michelle lives in Florida, where she is hard at work writing more novels for young adults.