Rainy Day Ramblings

Guest Post and Giveaway with Cameo Renae

Yesterday I featured author Cameo Renae's book in my Bargain Book Bin.  If you missed my review of In My Dreams by Cameo Renae you can read it here. 

Renae's book is a touching tale of a boy who is trying to protect the girl he loves from beyond the grave.  A stroy that reminds us again that true love doesn't die. If you are a sentamentalist and a fan of the movie Ghost, you will love this poignant story.  Best part, you can grab an ebook on Amazon for $1.99, or stick around to enter to win a copy at the end of this guest post. 

Now here with a multi character post is Cameo and some of the characters from her book: Lizzie and Michael, the young lovers, parted by an untimely death and Liz's best friend Emily and their friend Tyler. Take it away gang:

 If you had to change something in your life what would it be?

 Lizzy – We ALL know what that would be… for Michael to be alive, of course.

Tyler – And me dead?

Lizzy – I didn’t say it… YOU did.

Tyler – But I know you were thinking it. 

Emily – Could you two please give it a rest?

Michael – Hello!? I’m still here!

Lizzy – But not physically. And that totally sucks - I can’t even touch you!  

*Lizzy tries to grab Michael’s arm but her hand goes right through him. She bursts into tears.*

Tyler – Dude… I’m so sorry.

Michael – It’s alright.

Lizzy – No! It’s not alright! *sobbing*

Emily - Heidi… Could we please move on to the next question?

  If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?

Tyler – Ghangas Khan. Because he was totally kick ass.

Michael – Einstein… just because. 

Emily – Cinderella, because she went from rags to riches and got to marry a Prince.

*Tyler and Michael glance at each other, then burst into laughter*

Lizzy – Emily. Cinderella is make-believe. She’s not real. 

Emily – But I thought – 

Tyler – You thought wrong, babe.

Michael – Next question….

 What would describe your personality...give an inanimate object… Ex. I'm like a book....So much more inside once you get to know me.

Tyler –  I’m like a gun. Sometimes I’m loaded, sometimes not, but I always get my target.

Lizzy – Not every target. *sneers*

Tyler – Thanks for the reminder.

*Michael chuckles to himself*

Emily – Loaded? Tyler? 

Tyler – Not anymore, babe. It was just an analogy. I’m clean. Totally clean.

Michael – Well…I’m like a glimmer. Seriously. 

Lizzy – Well, I love the way you glimmer.

Michael – Thanks Liz. *They stare endlessly into each other’s eyes*

Emily – I like the way you glimmer too, but not as much as Lizzy does.

Tyler – And what about me? 

Emily – I like that you’re not loaded anymore. *Emily smiles – Tyler huffs*

Lizzy – I’d have to say that Emily… well…she’s like a grab-bag gift. You never know what to expect. 

*Emily glances at Lizzy with a dumbfounded look*

Lizzy – But she’s totally fun and my best-friend.

Emily – Thanks Lizzy! You’re the best… And Lizzy’s like a strawberry - pretty on the outside and sweet inside. 

Lizzy – Oooh-kay? *Raises eyebrows and shrugs* Thanks, Em. 

Emily – Of course! *winks* 

Tyler and Michael – NEXT! 

  Do have a special place to write or read?

Tyler – I don’t read OR write. 

Emily – That’s not good Tyler. You should try it. I write in my diary every day, and love to read in my bedroom.

Tyler – You have a diary?

Emily – Yep.

Tyler – Am I in it?

Emily – I’m not telling you! Hello! It’s a diary… you know… secret.

Lizzy – *Clears throat* I used to like to read at Lake Liz.*tears stream down face*

Michael – It’s okay, Liz. *trying to comfort her* 

Tyler – I said I was sorry, Liz.

Lizzy – *Sniffles and dries tears* I know… I’m still trying to deal with it all. 

 Have you ever experienced continuous writer's block? How did you escape?

Tyler – I think this one’s for Cameo Renae. She’s in the waiting room outside. 

Emily – Should we go and get her?

Lizzy – Yeah… we should.

Michael – I’ll get her! Hold on…

*Michael disappears, and re-appears a few seconds later with a distressed look on his face.*

Lizzy – What’s wrong?

Michael – I think she’s pissed cause’ I popped in and scared her.

*Cameo Renae walks in with her hand over her heart and shoots Michael a dirty look.*

Cameo – Michael, you scared the bejesus outta me! Don’t just appear unannounced like that! At least give me some kind of warning!  

Michael – Sorry. I didn’t mean to. 

Cameo – *Sighs* It’s alright. So what’s up?

Lizzy – Heidi has a question for you. 

Emily – Yeah… she wants to know if you’ve experienced writer’s block, and if you did… how’d you escape?

Cameo – Ummm- Well, I actually never experienced writer’s block for In My Dreams *knock-on-wood*, but I have had a bout with it on the new book I’m writing. If I get stuck, I usually go through the outline and pick a spot that I know I can write about, and then go back to the troubled spot later. 

Tyler – That’s a cool plan of attack. 

Cameo – Thanks. So… how did you guys do?

Tyler, Michael, Lizzy and Emily – Good.

Cameo – Cool.

Emily – Cameo, can I ask you a question?

Cameo – Sure Em. Shoot.

 Emily - Is Cinderella really make-believe?

*Cameo looks at all the others in the room with wide eyes. They shrug and roll their eyes.*

Cameo – Yes, honey. Cinderella is make-believe. Why?

*Emily sighs and slinks back into her chair.*

Emily – Nevermind. 

*Cameo glances at Heidi* I hope they behaved themselves. Thanks so much for letting us visit!

Thanks Cameo for visiting.  Now for the giveaway! Cameo Renae is offering an ebook copy of her book, In My Dreams.  Contest is open to all everyone just fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter.  See Contest Policies for all the information.  Good Luck!

 

 

 

Bargain Book Bin: In My Dreams by Cameo Renae

Time for another great find in my Bargain Book Bin!  This week's find:

In My Dreams by Cameo Renae

It was happening again. The dreams. The nightmares. It was something seventeen year-old Elizabeth "Lizzy" Hayes thought she'd outgrown; dreams that would come true; detailed premonitions of how people would die. This time she dreams about her boyfriend, Michael Young, and soon discovers that he's been found... dead.  Michael hasn't crossed over because he was murdered, and now his murderer is coming for Lizzy. His spirit won't rest until she is safe, and as a newbie spirit, the easiest way for him to make contact is through Lizzy's dreams. When she dreams, it's as if he hasn't died. Lizzy must learn to pull on her inner strength to survive horrifying events. Meanwhile, in the spirit world, Michael learns everything he can about his supernatural gifts to help. But will it be enough to save her?
ebook Published May 16th 2011 by Cameo Renae, via Smashwords (first published April 17th 2011)

1/2

Three and a Half Stars: A touching, heart felt romance for the sentimentalists.

Lizzy shudders awake, trembling as the remnants of her nightmare slide away.  Blinking she glances at the glaring, red numbers on her digital clock.  It is just a few minutes after six.  The clock seems to jeer at her as it marks off the seconds.  Each tick a jabbing reminder that Michael is over an hour late for their date.  He is never tardy and to be delayed on tonight of all nights.  He has a special anniversary surprise planned to mark their four years as a couple.  Michael and Lizzy have always been destined to be together.  They were childhood friends and high school sweethearts.  Her eighteenth birthday is just a few days away and they have so many budding plans for their promising future.  Where is he?  Desperately, Liz punches the speed dial on her cell.  Again it clicks to voice mail.  She tries to shake the feeling of unease.  A sharp, stabbing pain emanates from the back of her neck and a wave of nausea overtakes her.  A few minutes later she staggers to the couch and slips into an uneasy slumber.  When she opens her eyes, she is gliding down the darkened road in Michael's car, her fingers tightly intertwined in his.  At last Michael is finally here.  He draws her into the tight, protective circle of his arms and promises that she has his heart forever.  Why are his eyes so sad? Then the jarring sound of the phone fractures the dream.  Lizzy rouses to her cell buzzing with horrendous news.  Michael is dead!  Her life forever shattered.  Michael's death is just the beginning of the nightmare that haunts her while she is awake.  Someone is stalking her.  Can Michael somehow from beyond protect the girl he loves?

What I Liked:

• This is such a tender, poignant story.  The devotion between Lizzy and Michael will touch your heart.  There are so many sad, emotional moments in this story, I found myself blinking back the tears.  If you adore sweet, love stories then, In My Dreams will speak to you. In addition it tells the tale of forgiveness, second chances and redemption.  I appreciated the positive messages that this novel conveys.
• I enjoyed the additional supernatural elements in the story, the enigmatic Inuit Lucy Crow with her unique ability that allows her to interpret the whisperings she hears from the spirit world.  I was intrigued by the appearances of the protective white wolf with the sapphire eyes.  I was certainly surprised to learn its origins.  I loved the guardian angels and being able to interact with the souls of the deceased through dreams.  The grandparents were especially moving for me, as they reminded me of my grandparents that have passed on.
• I liked the descriptive settings.  The main story takes place in Alaska during winter.  The author does a marvelous job conveying the darkness and biting cold that envelopes the population during the long, dark days.  I could totally relate to the brisk, arctic wind and the sting of its chill especially while Lizzy shivered in her car waiting for it to warm.  Anyone who endures a long winter will be able to feel it's frosty breath blowing out of the pages.  I also enjoyed the fun trips that I took with Lizzy and Michael in her dreams.  I soaked in the sun of Hawaii, visited the lake, ice skated and snowmobiled.  Ms. Renae does a fabulous job taking the reader along on the journey.  
• This book can be purchased for the low price of $1.99 as an ebook on amazon.com (this price reflects the cost at the time of this review 2/12).  For less than two dollars you can read this romantic, emotional story of true love.  That is a bargain! So click the link (the book cover) and head over to Amazon and get your own copy.

And the Not So Much:

• Ms. Renae spins an intriguing tale, filled with lovely metaphors and intricate descriptions.  For the most part the story flows nicely but there are some stumbles over a few grammatical errors and falling into the passive voice, which slows down the pace somewhat.  There was a bit of redundancy especially when it comes to tears and crying.  These are slight mistakes that do not mar or overtake the plot.  I am certain with a little polish and further editing, Ms. Renae will tighten up her writing in her next outing. 
• The story line is not particularly fresh or innovative.  The concept of a ghost reaching back from the other side is reminiscent of Ghost (one of my favorite movies).  Though the idea of the novel is not original, the author does spruce it up with the inclusion of other supernatural entities as well as an Alaskan, shaman, ghost whisperer, Lucy Crow.  I was excited when I met Lucy, I just wished that she had a stronger presence in the story.     

If you are pining for a touching story of a boy and a girl, who find their love can transcend the boundaries of mortal existence, then In My Dreams, will satisfy your longing.  Michael is an angel that you will cling to, as he fights to protect his girl. This book reminds you that love is forever, no matter the circumstance.  A sweet story that those with a sentimental heart will thoroughly enjoy.  Pick up your copy today while you can at a low price. 

Favorite Quotations:

"The sky was painted in pale lavender, and all the spruce and pine trees were flocked in white. "

"Sparkling glitters of snow fell from the sky. I closed my eyes and felt the cold flakes melt on my face."

“I’ll never leave you. I’ll always be here,” he said placing his hand over my heart. “Always remember that. Forever in my heart.”

 I won a copy of this book from Courtney over at Fuzzy.Coffee.Books. 

Tomorrow a guest post by the author, Cameo Renae and a giveaway! See you there!

The Vanishing Game by Kate Kae Myers

Seventeen-year-old Jocelyn follows clues apparently from her dead twin, Jack, in and around Seale House, the terrifying foster home where they once lived. With help from childhood friend Noah she begins to uncover the truth about Jack's death and the company that employed him and Noah. Jocelyn's twin brother Jack was the only family she had growing up in a world of foster homes-and now he's dead, and she has nothing. Then she gets a cryptic letter from "Jason December"-the code name her brother used to use when they were children at Seale House, a terrifying foster home that they believed had dark powers. Only one other person knows about Jason December: Noah, Jocelyn's childhood crush and their only real friend among the troubled children at Seale House. But when Jocelyn returns to Seale House and the city where she last saw Noah, she gets more than she bargained for. Turns out the house's powers weren't just a figment of a childish imagination. And someone is following Jocelyn. Is Jack still alive? And if he is, what kind of trouble is he in? The answer is revealed in a shocking twist that turns this story on its head and will send readers straight back to page 1 to read the book in a whole new light.
Hardcover, 353 pages
Published February 14th 2012 by Bloomsbury USA Childrens

 

Four Stars: An exciting, thrilling page turning mystery that will keep you guessing until the final pages. 

Jocelyn is still reeling from the death of her twin brother,Jack. Two weeks earlier, he perished in a car crash. Jocelyn is slowly trying to pick up the pieces, until an unexpected letter arrives in the mail.  The letter is signed Jack December.  An alias, her brother used as a kid when he left her clues for treasure hunts.  Jocelyn drops everything and grabs onto the slim hope that somehow Jack is still alive.  She quickly finds herself plunged into a exciting and dangerous hunt to solve the puzzle that hopefully leads to Jack.  Unfortunately, the trail of clues starts at the one place she vowed never to return, Seale House.  Seale House is her former foster care home, where she and Jack lived for a brief time when they were twelve.  For the most part, her time there was horrible.  She has blocked out her memories of many of the events that occurred while living under that dark roof.  Now, she finds that in order to unravel the clues and find Jack, she must sort through her memories of the past.  Her first step is to contact Noah, another former inhabitant of Seale House, who was once Jocelyn's and Jack's best friend.  Will Noah help her after their unfortunate parting?  Can she unravel the clues in time to find Jack? 

What I Liked:

• If you are looking for a thrilling mystery novel that will keep you riveted, then I highly recommend you pick up The Vanishing Game.  This book is an exciting page turner, filled with plenty of mystery, intrigue, twists and a bit of creepiness.  The story will keep you engaged and guessing on the final outcome to the very last pages.  Hang on for the ending, it packs a big surprising punch! 
• I thoroughly enjoyed chasing down all the clues with Jocelyn and Noah. I was amazed at the creativity and ingenuity of many of the pieces of the puzzles, solving this mystery was not an easy feat for Jocelyn and Noah.  
• I liked uncovering and understanding the keys to Jocelyn's past, especially when you get to the end and see how all the pieces fit.
• I appreciated the creepy aspects of the book.  I wasn't sure if there were ghosts or some other kind of paranormal element. There are definitely some scenes in this book that are a bit scary, which adds to the overall mysterious theme of the book. 
• This book is full of surprises.  There are so many plot twists.  This book is a page turner.  You will keep reading just because you can't wait to see what happens next! 
• I admired the characters of Jocelyn and Noah.  Both of them showed remarkable courage and fortitude, in spite of the difficult burdens of their pasts.  I liked watching the two rediscover and rekindle their old friendship. 
• The ending.  Wow! It certainly will surprise you.  It has a bit of an Alfred Hitchcock type feel to it.  Hold onto your butt! Those final pages will blow you away! 

And The Not So Much:

• Following the trail of clues was definitely one of the highlights of the novel, but there were a couple of times I have to admit that they were a little far fetched.  No matter, it was still lots of fun.
• This book employs flash backs to explain some of the occurrences in Jocelyn's past and how they connect to the puzzle.  I liked the use of this technique but there were occasions when the insertion broke up the flow of the story.
• While I was astounded at the final revelations and the solving of the mystery, I can't say that I completely bought into the final explanations, such as the bite marks.  It definitely stretched beyond believability.  It was still a great twist though. 

The Vanishing Game, is a terrific debut novel.  If you are looking for a book that is exciting, thrilling and engaging, then you will love this one.  Set aside some time to read it, because once you immerse into the mystery, you will find yourself reading fast and furiously to solve the mystery.  Hang on for an astonishing finish, that may leave you scratching your head.  Kate Kae Myers is an author to watch.  I can't wait to see what else she has up her sleeve.  

Favorite Quotations: 

"Life is a series of shallow breaths.  And in any breath, everything can change."

"Since then, everywhere I went the pain of losing him went with me.  It wore me like a backpack, slapping a rhythm of heartache against my soul with each step."

"Shadows began to glide in and out of the windows like dark, filmy bats."

"The flames etched his face with flickering tattoos."

"During the last few years I'd tried to forget what it had been like when life took a group of frightened children through the looking-glass, into a world of lunacy."

"Hey, Captain Solo, I'm a big girl now and can handle myself outside the Millennium Falcon."

"Light-hearted, I began falling down the deep well of love. I hoped with all my heart that nothing happened to ruin it."

A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Bloomsbury USA Childrens via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Friday Forecast

Happy Friday to Everyone! Once again it is time for what has become a favorite feature on Rainy Day Ramblings, Friday Forecast.  Every week I feature some of the hot new titles that are scheduled for release next week, along with
the weather forecast for Portland, Oregon.  As always I want to hear what book you are desperate to get your hands on and what the weather is like where you are this weekend! Now this weeks forecast:

Click on any of the covers for more information.  A great bunch of books this week.  I am dying to read A Perfect Blood by Kim Harrison, I am a big fan of The Hollows Series. I also want to snag a copy of The Catastrophic History of You and Me, thanks to the great review posted by the lovely Maja over at The Nocturnal Library. 

This weekend's weather forecast: 

Saturday High 48 degrees low 37 degrees partly cloudy chance of showers.

Sunday High 48 degrees low 39 degrees partly cloudy chance of showers. 

Have a great week everyone!

Jessica Dates the Dark Side Tour with Beth Fantaskey

Yesterday I reviewed books 1&2 plus the novella in Beth Fantaskey's series Jessica.

Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side, tells how
Jessica Packwood discovers she is a vampire princess, betrothed to the powerful Lucius Vladescu.  Jessica must come to terms with her new identity but will she marry this handsome stranger, whom she just met?

Jessica Rules the Dark Side, picks up shortly after Jessica's wedding.  Jessica is struggling to come to terms with her new found role as ruler.  A treacherous betrayal occurs and Jessica finds herself in a hurried race to solve the murder mystery and save her beloved Lucius before time runs out.  

You can check out my reviews here. 

Today I am happy to welcome Beth, author of the Jessica Books and Jekel Loves Hyde, to Rainy Day Ramblings with a short post on writing. Here is Beth:

One of the most common queries I get as a writer is, “How do I become an author?” That’s a pretty darn broad question, but one that I actually think I have a decent – if sometimes unwelcome – answer to. And that answer is... Practice.
(I told you it might be unwelcome!)
In my admittedly humble opinion, if you want to write for a living, the best thing you can do is sit down every day and practice, just like you’d practice piano if you wanted to be a concert pianist, or baseball if you wanted to be a major league star.
I sometimes get the impression that people think the ability to write is either something you possess, or don’t possess, naturally. That if you have it in you to write a novel, you’ll sit down and it’ll flow out. And I’m sure there are some genetically gifted people for whom that happens – lucky them.
But that wasn’t the case for me. I wrote for twenty years, professionally, before even trying a novel. I was a political speechwriter, a journalist, and then a short-story writer before attempting a long work of fiction. And every day that I sat down at my keyboard, I learned something new about the rhythm of stories, pacing, how to create dialogue and drama...
To me, there’s no substitute for that kind of practice. You can read books, and that’s also a great way to learn, but until you actually write – and repeatedly – that’s like watching a soccer game and hoping to become David Beckham.
I’m not promising that everyone who practices will become a published author, any more than I could guarantee that you’ll become David Beckham just by kicking a soccer ball every day. For one thing, there’s a certain amount of luck involved in the achievement of just about any dream. But you sort of have to admit that you’ve got a lot better shot if you put in the time. So if writing is your dream, I encourage you to go for it. If you really want it, it’s fun, anyway – a lot less tedious than doing piano scales when you were, say, five.
And for those of you who are practicing, and trying, and dreaming... I wish you much luck, success, and – most of all – happiness as you work. Best wishes! 

Thank you Beth! Now as part of the Jessica Dates the Dark Side Tour I have a question for you as a part of a chance to win autographed copies of both books in Beth's Jessica Series.  To enter you can visit each of the participating blogs and answer the question for each post.  Post all your answers on the tour website here.  Good luck! Here is my question:

Who is the maid of honor at Jessica Packwood's wedding?

If you need some help you can check Beth Fantaskey website. Click on the tour banner for further details! Thanks for stopping by today! 

Rainy Day Ramblings Winners

Congratulations to Miranda S. Winner of the Follower Love Giveaway Hop she is receiving an autographed copy of Cambria Hebert's Masquerade.

Congratulations as well to Yvonne L.  she was the winner of Amy Lignor's Until Next Time. 

Christie C. is the winner of E.J. Dabel's Pantheons.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and entered.  Stay tuned for more great giveaways!

Jessica Series by Beth Fantaskey

 

Jessica Rules the Dark Side (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey

 

It’s one thing to find out you’re a vampire princess. It’s a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married Jessica Packwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius, at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points to Lucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own. Determined to clear her husband’s name, Jessica launches into a full-scale investigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting in her way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius’s time is running out. Can she figure out who the real killer is—and whom she can trust—before it’s too late?
Hardcover, 309 pagesPublished
January 10th 2012 by Harcourt Children's Books (first published October 19th 2011)

Four Stars: The sequel is better than the first.  Watch Jessica transform into a powerful, vampire princess as she races to solve a murder mystery. 

Jessica is busy settling into her new life as the wife of the powerful, vampire prince, Lucias Vladescu.  The two are desperately in love.  Jessica is struggling with her new role as a ruling vampire princess.  She shirks away from some of the more difficult aspects of her calling, not realizing the potential dangers of showing weakness.  Lucias, understands all to well the need for Jessica to step up and accept and assert her new powers.  The two hope to go before the vampiric council in order to become king and queen.  Unfortunately, before that date a catastrophe occurs.  One of the vicious Elders challenges Lucias' authority and then the next day he is found murdered.  Worse, Jessica and Lucias find that someone has framed Lucias for the murder.  Lucias insists that Jessica follow the law and have him imprisoned.  Jessica learns that incarceration for vampires accused of treasonous crimes involves no blood.  Without the vital blood, Lucias could die in a week.  Jessica finds herself thrust into the position of head ruler.  She must assert her power, while she desperately tries to uncover the true perpetrator and save her beloved husband.  Plunged into the treacherous and cruel world of vampire politics, Jessica learns quickly to heed her dead mother's written words, "Trust no one." Can Jessica seize power and rescue Lucias?

What I Liked:

• I was thrilled to watch the metamorphosis of Jessica into the powerful Princess Antanasia.  In the beginning, Jessica reverts back to the timid teenager we first met in Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side.  She is demure and fearful and unwilling to perform all of her duties.  As the story unfolds, Jessica is forced into her new role and she eventually rises to the occasion and becomes a strong, competent leader. Her growth is amazing.
• I liked the added perspectives of Mindy and Rainero, Lucias' cousin.  The pair provide some comedic relief.  Mindy with her arsenal of magazine tips and witty dialogue is a fun addition.  Rainero, at first meeting is an unemployed, long haired, disheveled surfer bum, who wears terrible t shirts, but he has some surprises in store for the reader. He quickly became my favorite character. 
• I liked that this book is a departure from its predecessor.  The story follows Jessica unraveling a treacherous murder mystery.  There are many twists and turns along the way.  I was glad to see it left the teenage high school scene behind and moved into a more mature, complex plot.
• I appreciate that Ms. Fantaskey's vampires fall in line with the more traditional ideas of vampires.  They are far from the romantic versions we have grown accustomed to in today's literature.  Instead, the vampires in her world are cruel, calculating and vicious.  
• I liked finally getting to know Lucias.  I struggled with his character in the first book, but this time he drops his shields and lets us inside his heart.  His passionate feelings for Jessica are remarkable.  Not to mention he is a regal and capable ruler.  Again his dialogue is told in letters or emails, which I like.

And The Not So Much:

• I enjoyed the addition of Mindy to the story but I didn't like the switching of narrative view points between Mindy and Jessica, I found it to be distracting.  I liked the use of the emails for Lucias' and Rainero's view points.  The email dialogue worked well and fit seamlessly into the story vs. the transitioning narration.
• The book is a little over three hundred pages, but for some strange reason, the author divides it into over a hundred chapters.  Often times a chapter concluded abruptly.  I felt that all the chapter breaks broke up the flow. This book would have been much better without all the chapters.
• I felt the final explanations and revelation of the murderer was a bit hasty.  Some of the details were brushed over and I was a little troubled by this.  I wanted a bit more break down of the motives and actions behind the killing.
• I like Ms. Fantaskey's vision of vampires but I think she needs to flesh them out a bit more and describe their genetic abilities and powers if any.  Right now I have numerous questions regarding the characteristics of her vampires. 

Jessica Rules the Dark Side, was a surprisingly, good departure from the first book in the series.  This book leaves behind the teenage antics of high school and thrusts us into the dark, vicious world of vampire society.  This book is a great murder mystery. I enjoyed watching Jessica step up and accept her birth right and face down some of the menacing Elders, who want to see her fail.  If you are looking for a new vampire read, try this book.   

Favorite Quotations:

“Fear is the worst kind of grave, because it buries one alive.”

“I love you for eternity---and we will weather this small and temporary storm.”

“All things become stronger in sunlight and wind, yes?”

The Wedding of Antanasia Jessica Packwood and Lucius Valeriu Vladescu (Jessica #1.5) by Beth Fantaskey

Four Stars: This short little novella has everything you love in a good wedding.

 

This short novella can be read for free on Beth Fantasky's website.  You can read many of the behind the scenes clips and check out the voting that helped shaped the final story.  The wedding dress pictures are a must see (click on the photo to see the other options).  The picture of the dress that Jessica wears is to die for!  This novella picks up shortly after the end of Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side.  Jessica is busy planning for her big day.  She and Lucias are head over heels in love.  Finally, I grew to understand and like Lucias in this chapter.  Mindy arrives with her Cosmo tips and makeup and hair styling equipment.  I was glad to see that she and Jessica mended their fences.  The ceremony and rituals that go,into the wedding are interesting and different.  This is a quick, fun read. Especially for the romantics who love a good wedding. I highly recommend you take a minute and read it before delving into book two: Jessica Rules the Dark Side. 

Jessica Dates the Dark Side(Jessica #1) by Beth Fantaskey

The undead can really screw up your senior year ... 

Marrying a vampire definitely doesn’t fit into Jessica Packwood’s senior year “get-a-life” plan. But then a bizarre (and incredibly hot) new exchange student named Lucius Vladescu shows up, claiming that Jessica is a Romanian vampire princess by birth—and he’s her long-lost fiancé. Armed with newfound confidence and a copy of Growing Up Undead: A Teen Vampire’s Guide to Dating, Health, and Emotions, Jessica makes a dramatic transition from average American teenager to glam European vampire princess. But when a devious cheerleader sets her sights on Lucius, Jess finds herself fighting to win back her wayward prince, stop a global vampire war—and save Lucius’s soul from eternal destruction.
Hardcover, 351 pages
Published February 1st 2009 by Harcourt

Three Stars: A book with a new presentation on teenage vampires.

 

It is the first day of school for Jessica Packwood.  She is ready to start her epic senior year.  Hopefully, she will create some wonderful memories, lasting friendships and even date Jake, the handsome boy down the road.  Her morning begins with a rather strange encounter as she waits for the bus.  An eccentric boy wearing a long black cloak watches her from across the street.  Great, her first day of school may end up in a kidnapping or some other unspeakable horror, all because her parents insist on her taking the bus because it lowers environmental emissions.  Thankfully, her big, yellow taxi arrives before there is an incident.  As she settles down next to her best friend, Mindy, she hazards a glance out the window and sees the unusual boy standing in the road, Jessica swears she hears him call her given Romanian name, (that no one knows) Antanasia.  Jessica arrives at school and she manages to push the unsettling encounter from her mind.  That is, until the enigmatic boy turns up in her class.  Who is this intruder in that irritating outfit? Events take a turn for the worse when her mother finds out about the young man and invites him to dinner.  Now her crazy stalker is coming to dine on vegan fare at her home.  Could her day get worse?  Yes...turns out, Lucias Vladescu, is her betrothed, from Romania.  It gets even more weird when she finds out he is a vampire prince and she is a vampire princess and she was promised in marriage in her infancy, as part of a pact to end the feuding between her vampire family and Lucias' family.  There is no way that Jessica is going to have anything to do with that werido, let alone marry him.  Or will she? 

What I Liked:

• I loved the transformation of Jessica.  She first appears as a shy, somewhat awkward teenager, uncomfortable with her outward appearance.  Under Lucias' discerning eye, Jessica blossoms into a beautiful, regal capable princess. 
• I liked delving into Lucias' character through his letters to his uncle.  I thought this was a clever way for the reader to gain an inside view on his impressions of America, feelings toward Jessica and his obligations among other things.  These letters were a perfect way for the reader to hear Lucias' voice without resorting to the dual point of view.
• I liked the Vampire Guide that Lucias presents Jessica, in order for her to understand and accept her vampire heritage.  I just wish there was more of it. 
• I appreciated the way Ms. Fantaskey married some of the traditional ideas of vampire lore with her own modern day ideas.  
• One of my favorite parts of the novel was the trip to Romania and the Carpathian mountains, the home of vampires.  The presentation of Romania was the perfect, foreboding vampire backdrop.  
• I liked the appearance of Jessica's funny and sympathetic vampire uncle, Dorin.  His character was fun, I just wish he was more prevalent. 

And The Not So Much:

• Unfortunately, I never really fell under the spell of Lucias.  At first he comes across as conceited, difficult and privileged.  As the story unfolds there were times when I started to like him, for instance when he built Jessica up with kind genuine praise.  I especially loved his ideas on chivalry, so refreshing.  These brief flashes gave me hope that I would grow to love him, but alas with his evolution at the end, I was disheartened and I just could not like him wholeheartedly.
• I picked up this book expecting it to be a light, funny read.  The book starts out that way, especially with Jessica's witty commentary.  Somewhere along the way the book takes on a darker tone, while that necessarily is not a bad thing, I found myself wishing for more of the fun dialogue. 
• There is a particular scene in the book that did not work for me.  It was when all of Lucias' uncles arrive from Romania and the dine at a popular local steakhouse.  Except they don't eat, (the vampires in this book do eat human food except in this instance) instead they order a plentitude of practically raw steak and then proceed to slurp out all the bloody juices and leave the meat.  Okay, this is a big fail for me, if vampires are clandestine and trying to protect their true identities, a group of creepy, old men slurping steak drippings in a restaurant would certainly tip off the staff and other patronage that there was something not right about those men.
• This book has a predictable outcome, despite the author's best intentions to add drama and surprises. 

Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side, is a book that was far different from my expectations.  Unfortunately, it was one of those stories that just didn't quite grab me.  It is a good read, but nothing spectacular.  This book will appeal to those who are fixated on vampires, but it didn't quite speak to me in the way I was hoping.  I wanted a comedic, entertaining read, while this book does have some funny aspects, there was not as much as I was hoping for. 

Favorite Quotations:

"The first time I saw him, a heavy, gray fog clung to the cornfields, tails of mist slithering between the dying stalks."

"When I am abducted by the menacing guy under the tree, Dad will probably insist my face only appear on recycled milk cartons."

"You'd be surprised how disgust turns to lust."

"Women should have curves, not angles. Not points." 

"Okay, I was seriously buying them all thesauri for graduation."

"Tourists?  Pooping in my castle? I bet nobody pooped unauthorized in the Vladescu estate."

"The gown curved over my breasts, then fell as sharply and abruptly as a waterfall cascading over a Carpathian cliff, ending in a sweep of silken train that swished like a whisper when I walked. Like the whispers that no doubt followed any woman who dared to wear this spellbinding dress."

                Come back tomorrow for a guest post from author, Beth Fantaskey! 

Tell Me Something Tuesday Valentine's Edition

Happy Tuesday and Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Welcome to the Valentine's Day Edition of Tell Me Something Tuesday!

Today in honor of the day of love, I have a post that pays tribute to some of the great lovers. Stick around at the end of the post for a guest post and giveaway! For you newbies to this meme, it is hosted by the lovely Cambria Hebert.  Each week she poses a new question; anyone can participate. Just pop over to her blog and grab next week's question and add your link. Then visit some of the other blogs to see their answers. Now this week's question:

 Who are your favorite book couples?

When thinking of the great lovers in books, my mind went first to one of the most famous couples in literary history.  That of course being Romeo and Juliet. I was first introduced to this star crossed pair in the fourth grade when our teacher read us an abridged version of the book.  I was captivated by the story of the lovely red haired Juliet and the handsome Romeo, who fall instantly in love, despite the feuding between their families. Unfortunately, the stars are misaligned and their great love is not to be.  The pair when faced with living without the other, choose to take their own lives.  I again revisited this love story in high school and on several occasions since then.  Countless movies, songs and books have told and retold this tragic tale. If you have yet read Romeo and Juliet, you need to read it! The question is who played the best Romeo and Juliet characters?

Next up, is the story of Allie and Noah from The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks.  It is the story of a young couple who meet right before the outbreak of World War II.  Noah, after some persistent persuasion, convinces Allie to go out with him.  From that moment on the couple is inseparable, until fate tears them apart.  Their lives go on and Allie eventually finds a new love, but her heart still lingers with Noah.  On the eve of her wedding, Allie goes back to find out what happened to her lost love and she is inevitably faced with a heartbreaking choice: Will she chose her first love or stay with the love that revived her broken heart?  The movie is just as wonderful as the book.  If you are looking for the perfect Valentines Day movie/book I can whole heartedly recommend The Notebook.  It is a love story that will grab your heart and won't let go.  It will make even the most stoic individuals blink back a few tears, men included. 

 

Finally, probably one of my all time favorite couples, Scarlet and Rhett from Gone with the Wind.  Yes, I am a huge fan of this book and movie.  Scarlet and Rhett grabbed my attention at the tender age of twelve when I devoured this book.  Yes, all one thousand plus pages and I have read it numerous times since.  Scarlet and Rhett are not the passionate, torrid lovers you expect.  They are two like individuals, who never seem to be on the same page.  Foolish Scarlet fails to see Rhett's love shining through all his teasing and careless banter, while Rhett falls hopelessly in love with the unladylike Scarlet, but is unwilling to let her see his true feelings. The pair spend years tormenting each other until the breathtaking moment when Scarlet finally realizes her true feelings for Rhett, just as he decides he is done with her antics.  He leaves her sobbing on the step as he mutters one of the most famous lines, "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn." 

Oh how I love Rhett Butler! Clark Gable in the movie is amazing! A must see film and must read book! 

I couldn't do my Valentine's post without mentioning another great couple, even though they are only a movie couple.  Rose and Jack from Titanic, another pair of doomed lovers, who in a few days find a great, passionate love only to have it torn from them during the catastrophic sinking of the great ship. Rose and Jack burn up the screen with some memorable scenes that make everyone swoon.  Who could forget Celine Dion's powerful ballad, My Heart Will Go On, it rates right up there with Whitney Houston's I Will Always Love You.  

So, there you have it! My picks for greatest couples.  What about you? Who are the lovers that captivate you? Tell Me! Please read my guest post from author Chelsea Fine and her personal love story and check out the giveaway!

 

                                    Happy Valentine's Day Everyone! 

Guest Post and Giveaway with Author Chelsea Fine

Yesterday on the blog I reviewed Chelsea Fine's novel Sophie & Carter.  You can read my review here. 

Her book tells a touching tale of two teenagers, who are best friends dealing with some troublesome burdens.  The story follows the blossoming of the friendship into something more.  

This is a book that will stick with you.  A delightful read!

Today Chelsea has stopped by to share with us her own personal love story in honor of Valentine's Day.

Here is Chelsea:

 

 

 

My Love Story:

I found my husband.

No really, I did. This story might make me sound like a crazy person (and, to be fair, I kinda am) but I don’t care—because I found love.

When I was nineteen, I went out to lunch with my friend Shelley. It was just your average Saturday afternoon…nothing spectacular about the day or the time. We went to a restaurant called Charleston’s and were seated at a small booth.

We talked, we ate, we laughed…and then BAM! I saw him.

He was working as a server at Charleston’s, dressed in a black shirt, and delivering steaks and appetizers to his tables. He wasn’t our server, but that didn’t keep me from ogling him. Which I did shamelessly.

Why was I drooling over a guy I’d never met before?

Mostly, because of his dimples. But also because there was just…something…about him….

I turned to Shelley with a glimmer in my eye. “I need to meet that server.”

Shelley raised her eyebrows and glanced over at my mystery man. “Why?”

Because I’m meant to be with him. Because he is my soul mate. I shrugged. “I don’t know. I just do.”

“Well, good luck with that.” Shelley took a sip of iced tea. “How do you plan to make that happen?”

I twitched my lips before a brilliant idea struck me. “I’m going to get a job here at Charleston’s.”

“You’re what?”

I nodded excitedly.

Shelley rolled her eyes. “You’re going to get a job at a restaurant just to meet a boy?”

I smiled. “Yep.” And that’s what I did.

The following Monday, I walked into Charleston’s and asked to speak with a manager. I explained to the manager that I would be a great addition to the Charleston’s serving team (maybe) and that I was eager to work for such a great company (what was the name of the restaurant again?) But despite my lack of professionalism at my interview, the manager still hired me.

I was in!

Now all I had to do was wait until Mystery Boy and I had a shift together.

So I waited. And waited.

Two weeks later (finally!) I was scheduled on the same night as Mystery Boy. I did my job, tried to act nonchalant, and eventually made my way over to my boy in black. “Hi,” I said. “I’m Chelsea.”

He paused for a moment. “I’m Brett,” he said with a smile. And his dimples made my heart melt.

That moment, right there, was the beginning of the rest of my life.

Ten years and two kids later, I’m married to my mystery boy in black. And I’m living happily ever after.

 

 A big thanks to Chelsea for stopping by today and sharing her story.  You can find her on her website and you can check out both of her books: Sophie & Carter and  Anew:The Archers of Avalon. 

Now for the giveaway. Today I have for U.S. residents a paperback
copy of Sophie & Carter and for international residents an ebook copy. Please see Contest Policies for all details. Then fill out the Rafflecopter! Good Luck! 

Bargain Book Bin: Sophie and Carter by Chelsea Fine

Welcome back to another great Bargain Book Bin find.  This week I have a sweet, touching romance about two young, high school kids who are dealing with some very difficult, adult issues.  This great story can be purchased on Amazon for $2.99.

Sophie and Carter by Chelsea Fine

While other high school seniors are dreaming about their futures, Sophie and Carter are just trying to make it through each day. Carter is overwhelmed by issues at home as he struggles to support his mother. Meanwhile, next door neighbour Sophie is left to care for her three younger siblings in place of their absent and troubled mother. All that holds these two best friends together is each other, and knowing that each night they'll sit together on Sophie's front porch swing and escape from reality, if just for awhile. But as their relationship reaches a turning point and high school graduation nears, will their friendship become something more?
Paperback, 117 pages
Published by Acacia Publishing (first published June 20th 2011)

Four Big Stars! This a tender, touching story of two teens defining love amidst troubling circumstances.

Sophie pauses a moment in the hall, to chat with her best friend, Carter.  It is a quiet, stolen interlude, that inevitably makes Sophie late to class, as usual.  A  moment where their troubles fall away, and they are just a couple of normal teenagers.  They walk home together everyday but not side by side.  Sophie walks twenty feet in front while Carter follows behind, occasionally picking up scraps of paper that Sophie drops along the sidewalk.  They keep their tight knit friendship a secret from the outside world and that is the way they like it.  Carter smile as he picks up a note, telling him to stop staring at her butt.  It is meant to lighten his mood.  They both know they are set to face the hard part of their day.  The pair are next door neighbors. Each living in a home shrouded in hardship and pain.  Sophie and Carter, though barely eighteen are each a caretaker and head of their family.  Sophie's mother is a prostitute and drug addict.  She rarely comes home anymore, leaving Sophie to fend for herself and her three younger siblings.  No one knows anything about their father(s).  Carter, cares for his ailing mother.  She and Carter were repeatedly beaten by Carter's now absentee dad.  Her battered and bruised brain is damaged from the attacks and years of soaking in alcohol.  She is severely ill and nearly insane.  The two toil through their hectic afternoon and evening, waiting for those precious few, stolen moments when they meet on the old worn porch swing.  Here in the quiet of the evening, they can swing away their burden of woes and enjoy each others company.  Despite what you might think, Sophie and Carter are best friends.  Their friendship has never once moved toward a romantic level, but each secretly ponders on the possibility. This book is a look at two teenagers caught in a web of crushing and uncontrollable burdens.  Their ability to see beyond their sorrow, and to grab and clutch tightly to the promise of love, will speak to your heart.     

What I Liked:

• When I started reading this book, I thought that Sophie and Carter would be two normal teenagers, who fall in love.  I was pleased and surprised to discover they are anything but typical teenage kids.  They are mature, responsible young adults bearing oppressive burdens.  I couldn't help falling in love with this pair, because despite their heavy loads, they remain optimistic.  Neither has fully admitted their true feelings for the other.  Their relationship teeters precariously on the brink of romance, frozen by their timidity to push it beyond the edge, for fear of losing the one constant, positive spark of goodness in their lives: their friendship. The joy of this book is watching the relationship blossom, as you spend those treasured minutes with them on that worn swing.  
• Sophie, I loved this girl's indomitable spirit.  She single handedly takes on the role of parent to her three younger siblings.  Not for one minute does she resent them, she  responds that she "loves their guts". Sophie is an honor student as well.  If only more young teenagers were as wonderful and caring.
• Carter, girls this young man will make your heart sing. He is so patient, kind and his unconditional love for his mother will make you sigh.  His scars and his abusive past will cause you to wince in horror.  I am telling you this boy is a gem.
• The writing is simple and easy but so full of memorable lines.  Ms. Fine, managed to speak volumes to me with her simple, sweet,  short story.  This is a book you will devour and want to share. It will brush your heart, and you will find yourself blinking back a few tears.  It is a stark reminder to be grateful for the immeasurable blessing of love in your life. 

And The Not So Much:

• There is very little I can criticize with this book, I enjoyed it so much.  One complaint is that if you truly analyze the situation, the unrealistic likelihood of either one of these teenagers remaining as the sole custodians of their respective families.  Carter's mother is so severely impaired she couldn't function.  I wondered what happened to her during the day while he was at school since it was apparent she was nearly incapacitated.  Sophie and her siblings in the real world would likely have become wards of the state, since they were abandoned.  However, I shoved the reality aspects aside and let myself fall into their story. 
• This is a short book, more like a novella.  Ms. Fines manages to pack a bundle of emotion into these few pages.  The story resolves nicely, but I longed for the book to continue.  I hope perhaps at a little date, I can revisit Sophie and Carter and see if their lives have improved.

Sophie and Carter, is a book that will linger with you after you close the cover.  It is a poignant story of a young couple finding the beauty of love, in a cruel and convoluted world.  Slip into this sweet story, I am certain you will come away grateful for the blessings and luxuries in your life.  Ms. Fines is an author I will be keeping a close eye on. This wonderful book can be purchased for $2.99 on amazon.com.  

Favorite Quotations:

"He makes my heart stop, he makes my breaths shallow, he makes me want to sing."

"Life is what we make it."

"Turns out you can't shake jealousy off.  You've got to pet it and lie to it and soothe it until it settles comfortably in the back of your mind."

"She pulls her hand out of mine and a piece of me dies."

"He's careful with what he loves, and he's scared of losing it."

"I love her guts."

"I love his guts too."

A big thanks to Acacia Publishing for providing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.