The Fire Witness review

The Fire Witness by Lars Kepler

'Finish detective Joona Linna's third outing is his best so far; brilliantly plotted, not too twisted and long enough to keep you going for a good few days' The Evening Standard

Book Synopsis

One girl is dead

Detective Inspector Joona Linna has been called to a home for troubled girls, north of Stockholm. A young girl has been brutally murdered, her body arranged in bed with her hands covering her eyes.

One girl is missing

Vicky Bennet is the only girl unaccounted for. Did she run away to escape the chaos or does a bloody hammer found under her pillow make her the prime suspect?

One girl claims to have witnessed it all

In Stockholm, Flora Hansen works as a medium, pretending to commune with the dead. When she begins to suffer crippling visions of the young girl’s murder, will anyone believe her?

As Joona refuses to accept the easy answers, his search leads him into darker, more violent territory, and, finally, to a shocking confrontation with his past.

Shona's review 5 of 5 stars

Let me just start by saying I was offered a copy of this book from Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review. When the email first came through I loved the sound of it, but that pesky first line in the media packet almost put me off... Finish detective Joona Linna's third outing. After all I hadn't heard of Joona Linna let alone read the first two books in this particular series. So I took to Goodreads and one of the first reviews I looked at mentioned that while this is the 3rd book in the 'series' it can be read as a standalone. And having finished the book I can say the same thing. Don't get me wrong, there are details that you may understand better if you have read the first 2 books but it really isn't necessary.

This book starts out the way it means to go on. Dark, gritty and brutal. We have murder, mental health issues and violence.. as well as dealing with the bureaucracy of the police departments. In some ways this book is horrible, there's no sappy moments, no hidden love story so if this is what you're looking for then back away slowly from the book and find something else. If you are looking for some grisly, something that is going to make you second guess your guess and assumptions, a truly well written crime/thriller then this is the book for you. I have seen it compared to Stieg Larsson's novels but not having read any of those i cant honestly compare them myself. It is however one of the best crime/thriller novels I have read.

This story is so well written, not just the storyline but the manner in which it is told, that it is difficult to put the book down, so much so that I read most of it in one day. As I said before, this is my first Joona Linna novel and so it is also my first Lars Kepler novel, but it will NOT be my last. Not only am I eager to find out what happens next I want to find out what happened before.

Praise for Lars Kepler

'Taking Europe by storm' Daily Mail

'Kepler has a direct line to a very dark place in the human soul' Time Magazine

'Commanding, deeply scarifying stuff' The Independent

'One of the best - if not the best - Scandinavian crime thrillers I've read' Red

'A high octane, taut thriller' Marie Claire

About the authors

Alexander Ahndoril (born 1967) has published seven novels and also written plays. His novel The Director, about Ingmar Bergman was shortlisted for the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize in 2009

Alexandra Coelho Ahndoril was born in 1966 by Swedish-Portuguese parents. Her first books, the novel Stjarneborg (Castle of Stars), was published in 2003 and awarded the Catapult Prize for the best first book.

Buy links

Amazon UK http://amzn.to/14VRdnw

The Death of Anyone Review

The Death of Anyone By D.J.Swykert

Book Synopsis

Detroit homicide Detective Bonnie Benham has been transferred from narcotics for using more than arresting and is working the case of the killer of adolescent girls. CSI collects DNA evidence from the scene of the latest victim, which has not been detected on the other victims. But no suspect turns up in the FBI database. Due to the notoriety of the crimes a task force is put together with Bonnie as the lead detective, and she implores the D.A. to authorize an as yet unapproved type of a DNA Search in an effort to identify the killer. Homicide Detective Neil Jensen, with his own history of drug and alcohol problems, understands Bonnie’s frailty and the two detectives become inseparable as they track this killer of children

Claire's Review 4 of 5 Stars

The death of anyone is a very powerful gritty police drama. Based on Detective Bonnie Benham after she came off drink and drugs. After reading this book i found out the characters appear in a previous novel, which i think would have been of interest in reading prior to this, to get more background about the characters, even if not entirely necessary.
the novel is an enjoyable read if you enjoy the crime genre although i found some parts could have done with more research to enhance the story, but it doesn't take away from the enjoyment of the read.



Author Interview - D.J Swykart

DJ Swykert is a former 911 operator. His work has appeared in The Tampa Review, Detroit News, Monarch Review, Lunch Ticket, Zodiac Review, Barbaric Yawp and Bull. His books include Children of the Enemy, Maggie Elizabeth Harrington, Alpha Wolves and The Death of Anyone. You can find him at: www.magicmasterminds.com. He is a wolf expert.



What inspired you to write your first book?

This sounds kind of silly, but an old man sitting on a chair in a salvage yard. He was smoking a cigarette and sitting in front of a house trailer at the edge of this immense pile of refuse. I developed the character Ray that is the main protagonist in Children of the Enemy, and has a small role in The Death of Anyone, from this chance encounter.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I’m pretty direct as a person and I think it’s reflected in my writing style. I don’t like to waste a lot time with endless boring descriptions. I prefer to let the characters dialogue tell the readers about them, and let the reader imagine how they see the character rather than waste paragraphs describing someone.

How did you come up with the title?

Bonnie Benham, the main protagonist, is a homicide detective who saw the death of anyone, not just celebrities, as important and worth solving. She’s a Detroit cop, and the city has an abysmal record of solving homicides, little attention is paid by media as most are seen as kind of disposable people.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I like to end my stories on a positive note. I want the bad guy to get caught, or the downtrodden to find their way.

How much of the book is realistic?

The Death of Anyone is based on a real DNA search technique that isn’t in common practice in the U.S., Familial DNA. Only two states in our country even have a written policy on its use, and Michigan isn’t one of them. This is a procedure that’s going to get tested in the courts over the next decade, and will receive a lot of publicity with the trial of the Grim Sleeper in California who was caught using Familial DNA. His attorneys will claim it is a violation of his Fourth Amendment rights prohibiting unusual search and seizure. This issue will ultimately be decided in the higher courts.

Are your novels based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

All characters are based on composites of people a writer knows. Nobody “creates” a unique character. Like real people, a book character is assigned a group of traits that identify him. I’ve read there is something like a dozen central plots in all of literature. Every story is a version of one of them. So are mine.

Which of your novels have influenced your life the most?

I really enjoy writing the police stories, and have a couple that have yet to be published. But the story that I most associate with is titled Maggie Elizabeth Harrington, and it is back in print again for the third time. It’s a historical story about a young woman trying to save a pack of wolves from a bounty hunter in a remote mining village. My family lived in the area and my father told me about her, so it’s kind of a special story to me, and much different than my crime stories. It touches many issues about the treatment of animals that are close to me.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

That would be Hemingway. I think his spare direct style is the most powerful writing I’ve read, and I like cats.

What book are you reading now?

George Saunders, Tenth of December. I’m not particularly ingratiated to his writing style, but his story plots and themes are very good.

What are your current projects?

I’ve began a story about a retired cop who moves to a mountaintop to live after his wife dies, hoping to rejuvenate his zest for life. He meets a younger woman there who is about to commit suicide and they enter into a relationship. I have a working title of: Counting Wolves. And yes, there are some wolves in it.

Do you see your writing as a career?

I see writing as more of a lifestyle, or life choice. Something I choose to do over other activities. If you write, and it happens to become a career, terrific, you won’t need to get up for work every day. But I don’t think that’s a realistic career path to start out with. If you have something to say, write it down. If it becomes a book, see if someone will read it.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Not in the story or theme. But of course, if I wrote it over I’d hope to write it even better. I like to think my writing process will always get better with each new story.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I’ve always enjoyed storytelling. I believe I inherited it from my grandfather who told a lot of them.

Can you share a little of your current work with us?

This is going to appear in a few weeks in a magazine called: The Newer York. It’s so short I just pasted it here.

Romance Application

I had the feeling it was too good to be true, that anyone so attractive and colorful would care for me. But I was wrong. When I touched the romance app on my phone a lush woman with glossy red lips appeared on the pad and blew me a kiss.

I stared at the pad. “Do you love me?”

An imagined gush of perfumed air drifted out of the speaker and a throaty voice said, “I love you, Martin.”

The rest of the afternoon I was aglow.

At dinner, with my romantic smart phone, my beautiful mobile device secure in my

pocket, I asked my wife Millie, “Do you love me?”

She leaned back in her chair and avoided the question. “I got the phone bill today. Your phone is expensive. Are you sure you need it?”

I slid my hand over my phone mistress. “Yes.”

“We need to cut back somewhere,” Millie said. “Our budget is being stretched by the cost of food and everything else.”

The thick juicy filet dripped blood on my plate. My eyes moved to Millie as I squeezed the phone, felt her warmth in my hand. “Maybe we could eat more fish?”

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I hope not. I do not like oblique writing. I think the worst thing that can happen to a writer is to be misunderstood, for readers not to get the point of the story. I know that may not be an answer the academic community of literary writers like, but I want my theme, story and characters to be understood by the reader. I don’t want to challenge the reader, I want to tell him a story and I want him to understand it.

Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

I choose not to. I did do book signings and travelled some with Maggie Elizabeth Harrington. But I’ve gone electronic because I can do my travel like I am doing this interview, sitting in my home.

Who designed the covers?

Carolyn Andrus from Melange Press designed the cover for The Death of Anyone. The cover for my most recent release, Maggie Elizabeth Harrington, is simply a photograph of a wolf taken by a friend of mine at the Red Dog Mine in Alaska. I attached it to this email.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The editing after the first draft. The most enjoyable part of the writing process is the first draft, getting your story idea down on paper. But then the work comes, the editing, fine tuning, proof reading and shaping the story.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing and submitting. Never quit.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I hope you found the plot interesting and the characters authentic.

Soul Seers Series Reviews

Soul Seers Series

#1 Voices of the Soul

Throughout her entire life, Ella has heard voices. Voices inside her head. She’s never given much thought as to why she has this gift… or this curse, depending on which way you look at it. It’s not until she meets the mysterious Jonah that she begins to question her inherited abilities as a Soul Seer.

Learning to deal with loss and love, Ella manages to live a seemingly normal life... or so she thought.

(Voices of the Soul is the first in a series of short stories and was originally published in the Paranormal Anthology with a Twist, coordinated by Cynthia Shepp.

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars

I absolutely loved this story! Very well written and I found myself drawn into the story. Will definitely be looking into reading the other novellas which continue this story.(Review written after reviewing paranormal anathology http://wp.me/p2A644-hs



#2 Eyes of the Soul

Jonah has never experienced a woman more stunning than the beauty that haunted his dreams. Although his dreams had every feeling of reality, he woke up every morning with the stark realization that those Amethyst eyes were only a figment of his imagination. Yet he still couldn’t seem to get her stare out of his mind.

Making his way through life, Jonah’s love of art became his outlet. His talents proved to be the only way to recreate his dreams. Her beauty was his constant. Even though he didn’t know her name, he was determined that one day he would find her

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars

Eyes of the Soul is written from Jonah's point of view. A very heartbreaking part of the story when you see how much Jonah is going through with his feelings over his dreams.

#3 Truths of the Soul

Some people view mind-reading as the evolutionary providence of humankind. Of course, “some people” are usually not telepathic, yet they still seem to think they understand everything about the paranormal phenomenon that is a part of Ella and Jonah.

Lavendine becomes a place where Jonah’s dreams suddenly become all too real and, together, they seek to find the Truths behind their enigmatic connection.

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars

Finally Ella and Jonah have found each other! This is what you are waiting for and it doesn't disappoint! I feel a real connection to the characters of these books and felt so happy when they eventually crossed paths!

#4 Blood of the Soul

Ella was certain that Jonah was only in love with who he thought she was... an image that reflected his desires... the girl of his dreams. The first time a man says those words to her, she wants it to be because he knows the REAL Ella—not some imaginary girl he dreamed of.

It doesn't take long for Ella to realize there is more than just a simple connection between them—a chemistry so deep, it makes them both question the true meaning of soul mates as well as the motives of those they love.

With each pulse of blood flowing beneath her skin and each breath drawing from her lips, Ella continues on her journey to know Jonah, which begins to reveal secrets that will ultimately affect their future.

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars

Wow I'm finding these reviews harder to write the further I go on, as I don't want to say to much and spoil the story for anyone who wants to read these. This is again amazingly written as they all are and I completely love Ella and Jonah!! I cannot put these novellas down until I'm finished reading the whole way through and then left feeling I have to read more!

#5 Secrets of the Soul

Jonah is certain about one thing—Ella is the sole reason his heart continues to beat each and every day. Witnessing the fragile state she's been in, he fears reliving six years of dreams and losing her once again.

Working through his anger with his father and realizing those around him aren't exactly who they seem, Jonah quickly learns Ella is much stronger than he thought. Suddenly, it is apparent their connection will be the fuel they need to surpass the insurmountable obstacles that lie ahead.

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars

Eek I am starting not to want to read these, not because they are bad (quite the opposite) but because I really don't want the story to finish! Once all the books are published I think I will need to read them all again back to back to pick up on any bits I may have missed and to get my Ella and
Jonah fix! Like the others this is extremely well written and you have no trouble reading the book in one sitting as you can't put it down!!

With only one book left to be released in the series i can't wait and at the same time I'm dreading it as I don't want the story to end!

Roommate Romance Series Reviews

Heart You

** Heart You is an erotic romance short story for ADULTS ONLY! This novelette is roughly 7200 words and contains a hot sexual triad between two female roommates and their Valentine's Day boy toy. **

Have you ever wanted something you know you shouldn't? That forbidden fruit. A temptation that will surely lead you down the path of illicit indulgence, and ultimately, pleasure beyond your wildest imaginations.

That was the daily torture Samantha put herself through when she thought of her roommate, Kara. Sitting alone on Valentine's Day, Sam found comfort in sharing her innermost secrets with her trusty journal while lusting over the brown-eyed goddess. At least until Kara comes home with a sizzling hot man and a night full of naughty games that would even make cupid blush.

Claire Review 5 of 5 Stars

Very short read but I loved it! not much time to get to know the characters due to the length and the action starting pretty quickly!

All I have to say is move over 50 shades!

Bind Me

** Bind Me is an erotic romance short story for ADULTS ONLY! This novelette is roughly 6600 words and contains light BDSM scenes between a curious woman and her very dominant male roommate. **

Lily had a suspicion her new roommate was the type to always take control, no matter what the situation. It wasn’t until she accidentally peeked in on Chaz dominating another woman, that her suspicions were realized. Lily watched with amazement as Chaz masterfully played the female like a sensual instrument, bringing her the most intense gratification Lily had ever witnessed.

After witnessing his sexual expertise from a distance and noticing the careful attention he gives to his lovers, Lily wanted nothing more than to have his hands sculpt every inch of her body. Unable to forget the incredibly erotic scene Chaz so skillfully played out, Lily sought to make her desires known by casually submitting to him throughout their daily lives.

To her excitement, Chaz invites Lily to his prestigious art show opening at a local gallery. All it takes is a slinky dress, a pair of kitten heels, and a tiny scrap of lace to drive Chaz wild, causing some very heated moments

Claire's Review 4 of 5 Stars
Another sizzling hot novella. These being so short I don't want to spoil too much by going in depth the the storyline. The detail and writing skill are amazing. It all leaves you wanting more and sad that story has to end!

Share You

** Share You is an erotic romance short story for ADULTS ONLY! This novella is roughly 12,000 words and contains a hot sexual ménage à trois between a young couple and their smexy new tenant. **

If Kelli has learned one thing over the years, it would be that desires rule your life—aversion has no place if you truly want to be happy. And she was all about getting what she wanted.

It all started on a rather hot, summer day when her husband, Nick, decided they needed to rent a room out in their house in order to make ends meet. Kel knew it was the only way they could continue to afford their lovely home. Still, deep down, she'd always hated the idea—at least until Ava walked through their door.

After several grueling tenant interviews, they finally rented the room to the sexy, long-legged blonde, causing Kelli to reassess what she really wanted.

Claire's Review 5 of 5 Stars
Wow this book made a great steamy read! And in my opinion this was the best one yet! Containing what felt like much more mature content than the others. For such a quick read its amazing how much you connect to the characters and I was sad when the book ended as I felt it could have gone on so much more, in fact I felt I needed to read more of what else would happen and felt disappointed when the story ended, which I think is mainly to do with Rene's amazing writing talent.

Overall if you are looking for quick reads these are definitely worth looking up!! The are amazingly well written and I couldn't recommend them enough! I thoroughly enjoyed them, and Rene has definitely gained a big fan!

Beautiful Disaster review

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

Book Synopsis

Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby wants—and needs—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

Shona's review 5 of 5 stars

It is 3 months since I read Walking Disaster (Travis' version of events). Despite the fact that I have been known to re-read a book a mere week after reading it, I worried that I would find it repetitive and not be able to enjoy it.  But I needn't have worried. McGuire hasn't simply rehashed the same book, she has truly added another persons perspective. It makes sense that we get slightly different scenes because girls and boys notice things a little differently.

While I enjoyed Walking Disaster I can honestly say I still didn't see the fascination that others did when it came to Travis... But then seeing him from Abby's POV and I'm struck with a sense of how good-looking he is, but its more than that... he's enigmatic. The whole package is.... attractive. Yes even that over the top possessiveness (that I understood better when I was in Travis' head) is still very much a plus for me. But I still understood Abby's reluctance to be with him, especially once they got to Vegas.

Beautiful Disaster is a comfortable read. You are able to pick up the book and disappear into Abby and Travis' world and ignore your own. Time passes and you barely notice... so much so that I managed to read this in just two sittings. I think I could have finished this in one sitting but I had to sleep .

Although this is essentially the 1st book in the series you don't have to read them in this order. I didn't and it didn't spoil my enjoyment of either book.

Buy your copy here http://amzn.to/12Zu9lg

Wind Warrior Review

Wind Warrior (World Aflame #1) by Jon Messenger
Synopsis

 THE EARTH GIVES WAY TO THE SEA, THE SEA BOWS BEFORE THE WIND, THE WIND FEEDS THE FLAME, THE FLAME BURNS THE WORLD OF MAN DOWN TO THE EARTH. The sleepy town of White Halls harbors a dangerous secret. On a picturesque street, two houses down from a lovely little park, in a quaint little home with a wraparound porch, lives a family that seems rather normal. Sure, their twenty-year-old son, Xander, still lives at home, but he’s going to college and dating the leader of the schools top sorority. It’s all very… normal.  However, when a man is miraculously saved from being hit by a bus, Xander’s life turns in to the living embodiment of the tornadoes he can suddenly create with a flick of his wrist. Whether he wants this gift or not, Xander must learn to use his new ‘super power’ quickly if he wants to survive.  For his kind is a dying race, and when this sleepy town has a sudden influx of new, blonde, fire wielders, no one is safe, especially Xander. It doesn’t help that one of these blondes happens to be the most beautiful girl he has ever seen. Xander can’t deny the instant connection he feels to her so, when she tries to kill him, it certainly makes things complicated.

Lisa's Review - 3.5 out of 5 stars

Wind Warrior is book 1 in the World Aflame series by Jon Messenger. Revolving around Xander, a 20 year old student whose life is spun upside down when he discovers he is a Wind Warrior, able to control the wind and told he has to help save his race against the Fire Warriors, who are trying to speed up the process of them taking over the world from the Wind Warriors by killing the last of them. The inclusion of the elements Earth, Water, Wind and Fire give Wind Warrior a new spin on  a superhero/paranormal type book, giving the book a fresh feel and making it different to other books in the same genre. In this book we meet pretty much all of the last of the Wind Warriors, and some Fire Warriors, too. I hope that throughout the series there are some characters included from the other elements to really tie all of them together. The first half of the book focused slightly too much on Xander's mundane college life for my liking. When he did discover his superpowers, it would have been nice to focus slightly more on that, instead we jumped into a slightly unrealistic relationship with Sammy, a new girl at College who turns out to be one of Xanders biggest rivals. Although both characters describe the quick 'pull' towards each other, it seemed rather rushed, and needed to slow down a little to make it seem more real. Although the first part of the book seemed slow and drawn out, the second half was much better, leading to some greatly descriptive fight scenes, which with the inclusion of the wind and fire elements were quite fascinating to read, It was interesting to read the different ways the Warriors could use their elements, and rather than just shooting gusts of wind or fireballs out of their hands, Messenger came up with some unique ways to use the elements to create a much more vivid scene. I find it difficult to read a book when I have trouble connecting to the main character, which is what happened in the first three quarters of this book. Although I did find myself warming to Xander towards the end, I preferred other characters, such as Xanders grandfather, his best friend, Sean, and his almost girlfriend, Jessica, and especially the human latter two, I couldn't help but hope they would somehow get some superpowers of their own and join the battle! The last part of this book was when it all really started to pick up and get me hooked into it, and I was a little annoyed when it ended as I just wish it had been that gripping from earlier on, and I really hope the next book in this series jumps straight into it and carries on from this book with a great storyline that keeps me turning the pages. I am looking forward to seeing where the next part takes the story and the characters.

Links http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18040515-wind-warrior

http://www.jonmessengerauthor.com/

Purchase Links

Wind Warrior (World Aflame) Amazon UK

http://www.amazon.com/Wind-Warrior-World-Aflame-Volume/dp/098947013X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373665763&sr=8-1&keywords=wind+warrior+jon+messenger

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wind-warrior-jon-messenger/1115595230?ean=2940016680828

Searching for Tomorrow Cover reveal and giveaway

What happens when you find the one person who completes you, and then life conspires against you? How do you set your grief and anguish aside? How do you pick up the shattered pieces, put those pieces back together again, and try to move on?

Katie and Tripp met on the playground the first day of third grade when Tripp tried to rescue Katie from Zack, her twin brother. A lifelong friendship that later blossomed into love began that day.

Broken beyond her own ability to repair, Katie boxes her grief up and attempts to raise her three girls the best she can on her own. As time slowly passes, Katie relives her times with Tripp while struggling most days to even get out of bed. She is reminded of him at every turn.

Zack is Katie's twin brother and was Tripp's best friend. Having lost his own love, he dedicates himself to helping Katie put her life back together. Throw in a mother-in-law who torments at every turn and poor Katie can't even find a chance to breathe, much less a desire to somehow search for tomorrow. 

Author Interview:

• 
  
  1.
  I am a PK. If you know what that means, then you know what that means.
  
  
  2.
  I have always wanted to be a red head with long, beautiful corkscrew curls.
  
  
  3.
  No matter what I’m doing, I would rather be outside, day or night, hot or cold, rain or shine.
  
  
  4.
  I was awarded two separate scholarships when I graduated high school. One was a teaching fellowship and the other was for
  writing.
  
  
  5.
  I love to cook, almost as much as I like to eat. I spent a couple of years as a private cook for a local family and loved every
  minute of it
  
  
  
  What is your writing environment?

At the moment, I have a makeshift office in my pantry! If need be, I can shut the door and cut off part of the noise. I hope to have a more permanent space soon.

One of your favorite quotes.

                  To whom much is given, much is required.          

Random things about my novel.

Just a bit of nonsense. I am Kathryn Anne, and my two sisters are Rebekah Elizabeth and Sarah Margaret. My husband is Channing, and my

son is Zachary. One of my daughters is Elizabeth, and I still have to work my daughter Brittany into the book. Highlands is my most favorite place in the world to go when my soul need refreshing. Last, but not least, I actually had a great-grandma Tiddy!

             

Flirting Questions

What does love feel like? 

Warm, fuzzy, secure, safe, sheltered

How did you meet your significant other? 

In the lobby of the bank that I worked in. I was on all fours under a Christmas tree tightening the screws in the base. What can I say? Baby got back!

If you could take a romantic trip, where would it be? 

Any trip I take with Hubs is romantic. One of his favorite things to do is to whisk me away to wine and dine me.

Do you believe in love at first sight? 

Absolutely! Ask me how I feel about my grandson Grayson!

Author Links

Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Bio:

About this author If you are reading this, I think you should know that "About me" sounds so very pretentious to me. I guess that is what I am supposed to write about, so here it goes!

Katie Mac is a simple country girl who likes to spend time with her hubba, hunka hubby, her three kids and her friends. She loves to cook and really loves to eat! During the spring and summer, you will more than likely find her outside puttering around in her garden. When the veggies start coming in, she will probably be sweating over a hot canner in the kitchen, canning all the goodies she is blessed with. Katie likes to hike and go camping, and as a Girl Scout leader, she gets to do this pretty often! On cold winter nights, you will probably find her wrapped in a warm blanket, lost in a good book, while sitting in her rocking chair on the front porch!

Katie was born and raised in North Carolina, and while she loves to travel, she can't imagine ever leaving the mountains that she has come to call home. Not a day goes by that Katie doesn't thank God for abundantly blessing her. He has been so good to her, and she is very grateful. She holds Jeremiah 29:11 very close to her heart and believes it with every fiber of her being. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Katie loves flip flops, chocolate, sweet tea and dirt between her toes. As far back as she can remember, she's had a book in her hand. Reading has carried her to places she will never go. It has introduced her to people that she will never meet. When life is great and when it is rough, she's always been able to find a book to carry her through. She finally decided to write down some of the stories in her head (yes, be scared) and heart after dawdling around and wasting years dreaming. She hopes you enjoy reading those stories as much as she loves writing them!/

Enter to Win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Weight of Souls ARC reviews and guest post

The Weight of Souls by Bryony Pearce

Book Synopsis

Sixteen year old Taylor Oh is cursed: if she is touched by the ghost of a murder victim then they pass a mark beneath her skin. She has three weeks to find their murderer and pass the mark to them – letting justice take place and sending them into the Darkness. And if she doesn’t make it in time? The Darkness will come for her…

She spends her life trying to avoid ghosts, make it through school where she’s bullied by popular Justin and his cronies, keep her one remaining friend, and persuade her father that this is real and that she’s not going crazy.

But then Justin is murdered and everything gets a whole lot worse. Justin doesn’t know who killed him, so there’s no obvious person for Taylor to go after. The clues she has, lead her to the V Club, a vicious secret society at her school where no one is allowed to leave… and where Justin was dared to do the stunt which led to his death.

Can she find out who was responsible for his murder before the Darkness comes for her? Can she put aside her hatred for her former bully to truly help him?

And what happens if she starts to fall for him?

Thanks to Strange Chemistry and Netgalley for providing copies in exchange for an honest review.

Pre-order it on Amazon http://amzn.to/10nFz1a

Shona's review 5 of 5 stars

Pearce has written a story that grabs the reader's attention right from the beginning. I have read a few YA ghost stories and this one stands out from the crowd. While a lot of other stories like to give you some background info first, Pearce throws you right into a scene where Taylor is about to approach the killer of her most recent ghost. And then we get snippets of back story as the tale unfolds. Sometimes we get rushed into the story and it can make for uncomfortable reading. However, Pearce avoids this and lets the story unfold at a nice pace.

I was hooked from the very first chapter and I seriously struggled to put this book down. There are a few points in the book where you think "well yeah I saw that coming", but not in a way that lessens the enjoyment of the book. I enjoyed the evolving relationship between Taylor and Justin, and the effect her curse had on her friends.

This story is built on characters who feel real with real issues, from the popular crowd who bully the less popular, to dysfunctional families and the death of loved ones and the hole it leaves in your life. There is no quick fix available for these characters and the story is more about how they come to terms with the hand they have been dealt. It is these struggles that Pearce focuses on rather than the curse itself, although we do get some bits of the curse and what it means.

When I got to the last page of the book I almost swore... not because it was a crappy ending (because Pearce has set us up nicely for a second book) but simply because it had ended.

Lisa's review 5 out of 5 stars

WOW! You know a book is good when you finish it in a day, can't put it down, and when you are busy doing other things, all you can think about is getting back to the book. Which is exactly what happened once I started reading The Weight of Souls. And it was so easy to read, I felt like I had been reading for 5 minutes when I realised that I was on page 100.

The Weight of Souls appealed to me as although I read lots of paranormal, there are vampires, demons and so on, but I don't read a lot that has many ghosts in it, and the fact that Taylor Oh was meant to avenge the death of the murdered gave a different spin to any book I have read before.

Right from the very first line I was sucked in. The writing is so imaginative and descriptive it's like being transported right into the pages of the book. I immediately fell in love with Taylors character, it doesn't take long to see how much her curse affects her whole life and the people in it, from the bullies at school, to her dad trying to find a cure. I even found myself warming lots to Justin, who at the start of the book is part of the V Club that torments Taylor, but after he dies and we learn more from his side, its hard to dislike him for long. I think this is the first time I have read a book where even the smaller characters have been written  with as much care as the main characters have, and it pays off. It helped the flow of the whole book, and made the whole book seem more realistic.

As for the story of Taylor and her ghosts that Mark her so she can pass the Mark on to their killers so the Darkness can take them - it was so good, and so refreshing to read something new. It seems a lot of books these days, especially in similar genres and categories as The Weight of Souls, all seem to be heading along the same lines, the same kinds of characters and 'otherworldly species' so to read something that felt totally fresh and one of a kind maybe what made me fly through the pages.

I  really hope that Bryony Pearce is writing another book to follow this, as there was a great little twist towards the end that put a smile on my face and I wanted to see how that panned out, but there were also a few unanswered questions, so I hope there is a next book to get those answers, and it's not going to be one of those books you never find out everything (and okay, I really want more of Taylor and Justin, too!)

This is a Young Adult book, but I am almost 30 and loved it, and I would be happy to let my almost 11-year-old read it, there are a few swear words but nothing heavy, and not consistently throughout, but I honestly think young adult, or mature adult, whatever age I would have really enjoyed this book.

Read a sample chapter  http://issuu.com/angryrobot/docs/theweightofsouls-samplechapter

Ten favourite films or TV series

I was going to do a mixed top ten, but I just couldn’t.  I’m a big film and TV fan and I struggled too much to cut them down, so here are two lists for the price of one – my top ten films and my top ten TV series.

When I was compiling this list it quickly came clear to me what I love in a good film:

1. It has to be quotable, here is a sample of the quotes that can regularly be heard in our house:

“Quick, let’s get out of here before they kill Guy.”

“Never get involved in a land war in Asia.”

“Never go against a Sicilian when death is on the line.”

“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya, you killed my father, prepare to die.”

“You keep using that word.  I do not think it means what you think it means.”

“Teenage the fuck up!”

“There is no spoon.”

“Genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist.”

2. It has to have heart.  Most of my favourite films have wonderful relationships at their centre; not romantic relationships, but true friendships and teamwork.  They are love stories between people who have to learn to depend on each other.

3. It has to have awesome special effects. OK, not HAS TO, but I do like science fiction and that is a general given.

4. It has to have funny moments.  This links back to the quotability and heart.  Shakespeare had his jester, even in King Lear.  Funny moments are essential in even the most serious of stories.

5. It has to have moments that stay with you forever.  Think Batty’s (Rutger Hauer’s) death scene in Bladerunner.

“I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe.  Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion.  I watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhauser gate.  All those moments will be lost on time … like tears in rain … Time to die.”

Or the moment where Ridley and Newt emerge from the alien infested colony only to find that the ship meant to take them to safety is gone.

6. It has to have an amazing story.  I need to see an excellent story arc, have some genuine twists and turns, I have to be on the edge of my seat, needing to know what is going to happen next.

7. It has to make me think.  If I can talk about a film for ages afterwards, if it can really make me think, make me need to watch it again because I have to go back and find stuff I missed, or re watch it following a revelation, then I’ll love it.

So, with no further ado, here are my

Ten favourite films

Bladerunner

The Matrix

Princess Bride

Avengers Assemble

21 Jump Street

Serenity

Lost Boys

Aliens

Galaxy Quest

Bring It On

Yes, I know Bring It On doesn’t fit well with the others, but it turns out that I also really like films about cheerleaders.

For a TV show, many of my same rules apply.  I love a good comedy, a fantastic story arc (this is where Whedon comes in, I’m a huge fan of his work), for me a good show must have an amazing script (quotable) and believable relationships. And I would really like it if US networks would stop getting halfway through a decent series and then cancelling it!

Ten favourite TV series

Firefly

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Blackadder

Doctor Who

Game of Thrones

The Big Bang Theory

Friends

Misfits (series 1-3)

West Wing

Prison Break series one

Giveaway

And as a special treat Bryony is holding a TOUR WIDE competition. For details on how to enter simple follow this link http://bryonypearce.wordpress.com/2013/07/09/the-weight-of-souls-a-very-big-competition/

In Spades blog tour

Title: In Spades (Mirrored #1)

Author: K. Pinson

Genre: New Adult
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17510975-in-spades?ac=1

Hosted by: Love Between the Sheets

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Avalynn has been running from her past for a couple of years now....never very far but always extremely fast. With an alcoholic father, a void of a mother and a town full of gossip, she struggles to find her place in the world.The only thing that saved her on her path of self destruction is her beautiful little sister, her miracle. Desperately trying to save Abby from a life that Avalynn has been trying so hard to escape from, she plots to take Abby away.The plan going dangerously astray, leaving Avalynn beaten and broken in what once was the hallway mirror in her childhood home. Avalynn finally comes to in the hospital after nearly being beaten to death. Father-Dead, Mother-Missing, Abby-In foster care--Everything changing in the blink of an eye.

Avalynn immediately sets to work to get her life in order , receive custody of precious Abby and focusing every ounce of attention, giving Abby the the life she deserves. Avalynn, now a 22 year old Elementary School Teacher and New Mommy, struggling to raise a beautiful and feisty five year old whom was just diagnosed with Mild Autism Disorder. Lots of challenges for her to face in the midst. Avalynn is ready to go at them all head on if it means Abby is raised in a happy and healthy home. Abby is the only thing she cares about...not even caring about herself or her life...that is...until she meets him. The man that can shatter her entire world with one glance. Their relationship a roller coaster ride from start to finish. One that Avalynn never wants to get off of..but she may not have a choice. Her happily ever after coming to a screeching halt yet again. Heartbreak, love, loss and hope--This story has it all, In Spades.

BUY LINKS

Amazon US – http://tiny.cc/ilkd0w

Amazon UK – http://tiny.cc/5mkd0w

Smashwords - http://tiny.cc/xokd0w

Kobo - http://tiny.cc/5nkd0w

Barnes & Noble - http://tiny.cc/1pkd0w

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

22 years old. Lives in a small farm town. Work full times as a Manager for an assisted living program for mentally challenged adults. I love my job. :) Getting my degree in music therapy.

AUTHOR SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pages/KPinson/548199141880189

Twitter - https://twitter.com/KatelynnPinson

Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6975423.K_Pinson

EXCERPT

I picked my fork back up and got really interested in my lunch, curling the noodles around it. I wanted to go out with him, but I was currently having an internal battle about it. Should I go? These words kept internalizing in my head over and over again. I was making no headway on the case of why not to go out with my beautiful stranger, so finally I gave him an answer.

“Oh, what the hell!” I blurted out. “Let’s have dinner. But it’s not a date and Abby cannot know.”

Did that really just come out of my mouth? Wow, my libido is doing the talking for me these days apparently. As much as I shouldn’t get involved, willing myself to be hurt, I was magnetized to this man. My body screaming at me every time I brought out my B.O.B. after feeling the invasion of Daxton and the pleasure that ensued. His presence was always stepping over my boundary line, making me a more confident woman. I liked this version of myself. He looked shocked, but gave me a simple nod. It only took about two seconds for his cocky, self-assured alter ego to stride back out onto the playing field.

“My place or yours?” he said and bit his lip.

The man had beautiful, full lips. I wanted to lunge across my desk and take a nibble.

“A restaurant, in the open, with Mexican or Italian food, with people surrounding us, in the open, that’ll do.” I stumbled over my words like a pro.

“You’re cute when you’re all affected by me.”  Daxton smiled wide, winked again and exited my classroom.

He looked over his shoulder and whispered “Be at my place at eight, I’ll cook mexi-lasagna.”



Title: House of Cards (Mirrored #2)

Expected Release date – August 2013

Add to Goodreads - http://tiny.cc/b4kd0w

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Daxton James holds the world in the palm of his hands. He has finally met the love of his life and is more than ready to start a family with her and her precious daughter, Abby. He has the best friends that anyone could ask for, a career doing two things he loves the most-music and helping people and his family piecing themselves back together, slowly but surely. Everything has fallen into place in his life and he couldn't be more happy about it.

There is only one problem---He can’t remember any of it.

Daxton was involved in a serious accident which has left him fighting for his life, while his loved ones wait in the midst, unsure if he is even going to come out of it alive. Thankfully he does, but his short term memory can’t say the same. He only remembers the Daxton he had been years previous. The playboy, the rock star and hopelessly devoted to a woman that is not Avalynn Wright.

The doctors tell Avalynn to just let his memory come back on it’s own

and to not push him too much, fearful that forcing his memory will cause permanent scarring and trauma. Avalynn is so thankful to have Daxton alive, that if letting him go will keep him happy and healthy, she will do just that, even if it means killing off herself; bit by bit. Avalynn struggles to get a grasp on what is a reality and what is created by the stresses of her life which causes her to downward spiral, with nobody there to break her fall.

Will Avalynn and Daxton make it through this or is their relationship built only as strong as a House of Cards, ready to crumble at any moment?

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Yesterday Mourning Review & Author Interview

Yesterday Mourning By Renita Bryant

Book Synopsis

Yvette is a forty-one year old woman struggling to cope with losing both parents during her twenties—one to terminal disease and the other to life’s complications. Over the years, she learned to repress the pain of watching her mother die and the resentment of having her father casually walk out of her life. Now as she packs her bags to return to her Georgia hometown and the house where final goodbyes were never spoken, a growing sense of uneasiness intensifies.

Vera is the kind-hearted stepsister Yvette never imagined nor wanted. She was an innocent teenager when Yvette’s father, the Pastor, entered her life. Although broken from the loss of his beloved wife and daughters, he found a way to give Vera the love and affection she so desperately needed. However, a childhood secret threatens to compromise everything Vera holds dear.

When the Pastor’s health takes a turn for the worse, both daughters must decide if they have the strength and courage to no longer be confined to burdens of the past. Will Yvette overcome feelings of abandonment and forgive her father before it’s too late? Does Vera’s childhood secret hold the key to mending this family’s broken relationship?

Yesterday Mourning is a heartfelt and poignant novella about two women learning invaluable lessons of forgiveness, love, loss and ultimately—peace. It is an impressive début from an author with an authentic voice and a love for storytelling.

Claire's Review 4 of 5 Stars

I have restarted this review a few times now as I seem to be struggling to have the words to do the book justice. This book is a very emotional journey right for the beginning.
Written in a 2 person narrative I did find confusing to read to begin with, As had trouble distinguishing between the two on occasions, but soon I got into the flow of the characters.
this was a great novella and a great début, I do think though the story could have been drawn out into a full length novel and would loved to have read more!





Renita Bryant Interview

What inspired you to write your first book? Being a writer has always been a dream of mine. There’s something magical about using words on a page to emotionally propel someone into another time and place. When I was younger, I mostly wrote poetry and essays. Over time, I toyed with the idea of writing a novel but never truly committed. Then in 2006, my mother lost her battle with cancer and everything changed. I believe writing was a form of therapy and it provided the control I yearned for during a time in my life when I felt powerless.

How did you come up with the title? I always knew Mourning would be somewhere in the title. As I thought about the first book in the series and what I wanted to communicate as well as how the story would unfold, I landed on Yesterday Mourning.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?  Definitely! I’d like readers to understand how two people can go through the same situation, endure devastating pain caused by that very event, and yet have two totally opposing perspectives coming out of it. Forgiveness is such a powerful notion and it often requires us to see someone else’s truth.

How much of the book is realistic?  Yesterday Mourning is loosely based on my reality. While the storyline is fiction, the emotions are honest and real. Not long after my mother died, the relationship with my father became strained and then nonexistent. I was confused, hurt, and felt abandoned. Writing this story helped me come to terms with what had happened as well as determine what I wanted as my ideal outcome. Being able to divulge all of my grief and trauma on paper was therapeutic. My biggest hope is that my words will help someone else find strength in a seemingly hopeless situation.

Are your novels based on someone you know, or events in your own life? There is definitely a mix. People I’ve met during my lifetime inspired me along with my own reality.

What are you reading now? There are a few books on my TBR list, including Qwantu Amaru’s One Blood (I’ve heard great things!) and Maxwell’s Inheritance: Who Do You Think You Are (specifically for an indie-author book review group).

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? I actually identify with the works of Paulo Coelho, specifically The Alchemist and The Zahir.  I read them both multiple times over the years and found so many great life lessons throughout the pages.

What are your current projects? I’m working on a collection of short stories and Stolen Moments, Forgotten Mournings, which is book 2 in the Mourning series.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? I think most writers see the imperfections in everything they produce. I’ve consistently received feedback and reviews from readers on Yesterday Mourning’s ability to touch them while reading and long after internalizing the last word. My novel means something to people and that both humbles and inspires me.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? My mother wanted to be a writer. I remember being very young and asking her about clouds and how they were made. Instead of giving me the scientific answer (which of course I later learned) she wrote a short story and then typed it and left it on my bed. She made up an entire story about popcorn clouds that I never forgot. Her creativity moved me and in essence made my passion for writing almost a given.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? Because of the subject matter, I have to be in the right frame of mind and emotions to write. At times that means I have to walk away from my laptop because I want real, honest, raw emotion. Those things aren’t shaped overnight.

Do you have to travel much concerning your book? Not as much right now but hopefully that’ll change in the near future!

Who designed the cover? Marie Morrison! She’s amazing!

What was the hardest part of writing your book? Being so vulnerable-not simply during the actual writing but even after publishing it. As a writer you struggle with the fear of releasing something you’ve grown a deep attachment to and not having others respect or appreciate it. I wondered if my friends and family would be able to understand Yesterday Mourning and if strangers would even buy it.

Do you have any advice for other writers? My advice is two-fold. Write what you know because that’s one of the few ways to bring authenticity to your words and evoke powerful emotions. Another way is to write the story you’d most like to read.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? I’d like them to know how much I sincerely appreciate their time, their feedback, and their support. It humbles me to hear them tell me how much my novel moved them to tears or made them reconcile relationships that had been non-existent for decades. My readers inspire me and for that, I thank them.

Love Among the Pigeons Cover reveal and Giveaway

BOOK & AUTHOR INFO:

Love Among Pigeons by Abria Mattina

Publication Date: August 23rd 2013
Genre: YA Contemporary

Synopsis:

In this companion novella to Wake, Frank invites the Kirk family home to Smiths Falls for Thanksgiving weekend. Holidays are always a trial for the family that lost their daughter and sister, but Frank is hopeful that this Thanksgiving will be the exception. He has some happy news to share. If only he wasn’t so reluctant to talk about it.

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18072782-love-among-pigeons

AUTHOR BIO:

Abria Mattina works in marketing and book production. She holds a Certificate in Publishing from the New York University Summer Publishing Institute and a degree in English Literature and Psychology from the University of Ottawa. When she isn’t writing she enjoys travelling, eclectic books, blogging, and baking. She lives with her fiance, Daniel.

Her debut novel, WAKE, is about the struggle to redefine life after experiencing cancer and caring for an ill loved one.

Author links:

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

Giveaway

For the chance to win a paperback ARC of the book click the rafflecopter link below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Finding Bliss blog tour and giveaway

Title: Finding Bliss

Author:  Dina Silver

Release date: July 16, 2013

Age Group: Adult

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17408326-finding-bliss

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Bliss-ebook/dp/B00BFICI6K/ref=pd_sim_kstore_41

Book Description:

Chloe Carlyle has always longed for the perfect family.

Growing up with an alcoholic single mother, she has seen her share of heartbreak and disappointment, and is striving to build a new legacy for herself. After graduating from college, she takes a job working as a summer girl for the Reeds––a wealthy, accomplished family that personifies her American dream. Her summer takes an unexpected turn when the Reeds’ eldest son Tyler, the star quarterback for Notre Dame, shows up and turns her life upside down.

An ambitious young woman with a wry sense of humor, Chloe never imagined herself as the type to succumb to the looks and charms of the hometown hero, but she falls hard for Tyler, and is devastated when they part ways at the end of the summer. As she heads off to law school, Chloe tries to convince herself this was just a fling, but she can’t quite get over him. It’s not until Tyler contacts her out of the blue late one winter night that everything changes.

After doing everything in her power to build the perfect life, Chloe soon learns that there are things beyond her control. She must draw on inner reserves of strength as her life takes unpredictable—and sometimes heartbreaking—twists and turns, and she finds herself faced with decisions she never thought she’d have to make. Poignant, heartfelt, and emotional, Finding Bliss is a reminder that you don’t have to live a fairytale life in order to have a happy ending.

5 Fun Facts about Finding Bliss

1.    It’s based on some very real stories told to me by very real people.

2.    I wrote it in two months.

3.    It’s my first traditionally published book.

4.    It took me forever to choose a title.

5.    It’s a spin off of One Pink Line.

About the Author

A graduate of Purdue University, Dina Silver has spent the past fifteen years feeding her red wine habit by working as a copywriter in the advertising industry. In addition to writing ad copy, she formed Dinas Ideas (dinasideas.com), a greeting card company, in 2003. Dina serves as the sole writer and designer for the business and has penned over 300 greeting cards since its inception.

Dina Silver |Facebook |Twitter |Pinterest

Giveaway

1 Kindle Paperwhite

1 FINDING BLISS ebook

1 FINDING BLISS Paperback

Disclosure:

No purchase necessary. Must be 13 years of age and older to enter unless stated 18 + years of age. Must reside in countries able to receive eBooks via email. The retail value of the items is $131.57 USD. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners will be selected after July 31, 2013   randomly by Rafflecopter. Entries will be reviewed for accuracy. Participating blogs and AToMR Tours are not liable for purchasing, shipping or emailing the items, winner not receiving the items, or lost items shipped/emailed. This sweepstakes is sponsored by the author and items will be provided via email or shipped by the author. If the items are not claimed via email within 24 hours of receiving notification the item will be forfeited with no winner or an alternate winner may be selected at AToMR Tours discretion with email verification by July 31, 2013. Any taxes associated will be paid by the author unless otherwise stated. AToMR Tours has the right to obtain and publicize the winners name and likeness. Void where prohibited by law.

Icons review

Icons by Margaret Stohl

From the bestselling author of Beautiful Creatures comes the first book in a heart-pounding series set in a haunting new world were four teens must piece together the mysteries of their pasts - in order to save the future.

Book Synopsis

Your heart beats only with their permission.

Everything changed on The Day. The day the windows shattered. The day the power stopped. The day Dol's family dropped dead. The day Earth lost a war it didn't know it was fighting.

Since then, Dol has lived a simple life in the countryside -- safe from the shadow of the Icon and its terrifying power. Hiding from the one truth she can't avoid.

She's different. She survived. Why?

When Dol and her best friend, Ro, are captured and taken to the Embassy, off the coast of the sprawling metropolis once known as the City of Angels, they find only more questions. While Ro and fellow hostage Tima rage against their captors, Dol finds herself drawn to Lucas, the Ambassador's privileged son. But the four teens are more alike than they might think, and the timing of their meeting isn't a coincidence. It's a conspiracy.

Within the Icon's reach, Dol, Ro, Tima, and Lucas discover that their uncontrollable emotions -- which they've always thought to be their greatest weaknesses -- may actually be their greatest strengths.

Bestselling author Margaret Stohl delivers the first book in a heart-pounding series set in a haunting new world where four teens must piece together the mysteries of their pasts -- in order to save the future.

Thanks to Harper Collins for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Shona's review  5 of 5 stars.

When I got the email offering me this book I jumped at the chance as soon as I saw Stohl's name. I loved Beautiful Creatures and I wanted to see if her solo novel was as good as the collaboration with Kami Garcia. Well let me just say this... I was not disappointed. I cannot wait to read the next instalment in this series, and a next instalment there will be. I can't even begin to tell you how happy I was when, I got to around half way through this and I discovered it was in fact the first in a series.

The telling of the story is what truly grabbed me. I haven't read a book like it before. The story unfolds from different POV's. Firstly we have Dol, most of the story is told by her, then throughout the book we also have medical reports (from the future) and classified documents (from the past), which all help tell the story of  the Icons and the Icon Children.

I liked Dol almost immediately. She has had to live with so much because of her abilities as a Weeper, or Sorrow Icon. She is able to feel the emotions of those around her. Which must make it difficult to figure out where others end and you begin. This leads to conflicting feelings which I feel she deals with really well. She acknowledges her mixed feelings about certain characters and she resists the urge to act on them until she is able to work through them in her own head. Some of the other characters weren't so instantly likeable,  but some of that is because we are seeing them from Dol's POV, because as the book unfolds and we learn more about the characters I started to have a better understanding of why they are the way they are.

The book is so well written you don't even realise how much you have read in one sitting until you put the book down and realise how far through the book your bookmark is. If you are looking for a book that wraps up all the questions that popped into your head whilst reading then you are going to be disappointed, while we do get some answers I'm afraid to tell you that by the end of the book we have more questions left unanswered than we find answers. Normally this would leave me frustrated, but there is just something about the way Stohl has written this that it wasn't even an issue for me. It has left me excited to read the next book... which I guess is always the plan for the author of a series.

Praise for Beautiful Creatures

'Gorgeously crafted, atmospheric and original. I devoured it' Melissa Marr, NYT bestselling author of Wicked Lovely

'Watch out Twilight and Hunger Games' Guardian

'This novel has been generating Twilight-level buzz' Teen Vogue

Margaret Stohl is a lifelong science fiction fan, former video game designer, and co-author of the New York Times bestselling Beautiful Creatures series. She lives in Los Angeles, California, with her family.