Monthly Archives: October 2013

In Her Dreams by Katherine Givens-Review and Guest Post

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In Her Dreams by Katherine Givens – a review and guest post

In Her Dreams

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 1, 2013

A flirty, fun, mix-and-match romance about two sisters who are betrothed to the wrong men…

Evangeline Vernon is a woman on the verge of spinsterhood — until the prim and proper Duke of Manchester steps in. Her family is pleased with the match, but the duke is not the passionate man Evangeline craves. Her heart belongs to an alluring, golden-haired gentleman, perfect in every way…except one: he doesn’t exist.

Angela Vernon is everything a proper, well-brought-up woman should be. She knows her place and understands society’s expectations — which include not being jealous of her sister and not coveting her sister’s suitor. But how can she bear the heartache of watching the only man she loves marry not only her sister, but a woman who doesn’t see past his exterior to the man he is beneath?

••••••••••••••••••••••••

In her dreams is a sweet, short historical romance. A delightful light read!

Two sisters, Evangeline and Angela Vernon, are the objects of their mother’s greedy plans to have her daughters married to men of wealth and stature; this more for her own enjoyment than an actual caring of her daughters. It reminds us of how far women have come in life, to be able to marry for love and attraction not just as an object, but I digress.

Angela and Evangeline are loving siblings. Unfortunately Evangeline (almost a spinster at 24 ((OMG)) is noticed by the Duke of Manchester and her mother has decided she is to marry him. Evangeline finds him boring, nice but not someone she’s attracted to. Her mother simply doesn’t care; she will marry him or else be thrown out of her father’s house!

Evangeline dreams of a golden haired man with magnificent green eyes and is undeniably attracted to him. She dreams of him every time she sleeps. His name is Alexander…she doesn’t know it, but he is the Earl of Cheshire, and he is quite real and also dreaming of her! Interesting, yes?

Getting ready for another ball at the Manchester’s house Evangeline discovers that her sister Angela is in love with Manchester but will not cross her mother’s plans. She is willing to have the man she loves marry her sister while she (per her mother’s wishes) will have to win the heart of a reclusive man, the Earl of Cheshire (who no one has seen in years).

Okay! That’s the set-up; I don’t do spoilers, so here’s the questions:

Can Evangeline convince Angela to tell Manchester she’s in love with him and win his heart despite her mother’s plans?

Will Manchester fall for Angela, despite his intensions of marrying Evangeline (he doesn’t believe love exists for people of their stature…mmmm)?

Will the ever elusive Alexander be able to convince Evangeline of his real love for her and get her to marry him instead?

Will the parents allow this?

This is quite a nice read, reminds me a little of “A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream”. It’s lighthearted, romantic in the historic tradition, although there is a little steamy romance as well…a good read with some wine and chocolate would make a really good day! Enjoy, it’s fun!

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copy supplied by the author

guest post

What Do You Mean Historical Romance Is Dying?

As of late, I’ve read a few blogs and articles about how historical romance is dead or dying. Others say there needs to be something new and different to reinvent the genre. Several are grumbling about the played out tropes and stereotypical characters. There are readers calling for stories that are new and exciting, not the traditional regencies that have been done over and over again. Change is the keyword for these unhappy readers, while others just think the genre is dead.

As a historical romance author, I have to disagree. Historical romance is alive! It is vibrant! It is radiant! It is effervescent! The traditional regencies remain in the majority of the market, because that is what the majority of readers crave. There has to be a reason the acquisition teams of publishers still acquire these regencies. Publishing is a business. Publishers are out to make money. If editors are still seeking historicals, it must mean this corner of the market is still profitable.

I know firsthand that historical romances are still sought after by editors. Back in May of this year, I sold my debut novella to Harlequin Australia’s imprint Escape Publishing. Titled *In Her Dreams*, the novella is set in nineteenth century England. Although my story is set in Victorian society, it is a historical romance with a twist. A twist that entertained the editor of my Harlequin line enough so that she offered me a contract. If historical romances were dead, why would she acquire such a piece? Also, let us not forget there are USA Today bestsellers, New York Times bestsellers, and very successful authors still in this genre. A few successful authors in this genre to name are Eloisa James, Loretta Chase, Brenda Joyce, Elizabeth Hoyt, Liz Carlyle, Sabrina Jeffries, and Madeline

Hunter. I could name more, but I’d bore you with my long, long list! There are also new voices blooming in this genre, such as Sarah MacLean, Heather Snow, and Ella Quinn. For those seeking something new and exciting in historical romances, there are books outside of the traditional regencies being published. Viking romances are a huge hit. Even I want to write my own Viking romance! Historicals are also being set in the ancient world, the Americas, and in Asia. A few examples of authors writing outside of regencies are Jeannie Lin, Kate Quinn, and Michelle Willingham.

The genre was inspired one of the greatest novelists of all time, Jane Austen. Others shaped and molded historical romances, such as Georgette Heyer and Victoria Holt. With other greats now carrying the torch, why would the genre be dead? Contemporaries and paranormals might be the big hits right now, but how can historicals wither to nothing when a loyal reader base remains? The truth is historical romances are alive, and the genre isn’t going anywhere. I see it changing yet again, changing with the new face of publishing. However, this does not mean it will turn to ashes. The fires still burn, and I am excited to see how the genre shall shift in the future. And, of course, I mean to be there for the ride as I continue to write my own stories as a proud historical romance author.

about the author

Follow: Goodreads/ Website/ Twitter / Facebook

Katherine Givens

 

In Her Dreams is Katherine’s debut novella, which is published with Harlequin Australia’s imprint Escape Publishing. She is working on a number of other projects and always has ideas flooding her head. In her spare time, Katherine loves to read about history, craft jewellery, and play with her ornery kitten named Bucky. To learn more about Katherine and her writing, please visit the following sites: Goodreads/ Website/ Twitter / Facebook. She loves to hear from readers.

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Fixed on You/Found in You (Fixed 1 & 2) by Laurelin Paige-a review

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Fixed on You/Found in You (Fixed 1 & 2) by Laurelin Paige-a review

Fixed Series

FIXED ON YOU (Fixed #1) by Laurelin Paige

Fixed on You

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 22, 2013

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Stalking and restraining orders are a thing of Alayna Wither’s past. With her MBA newly in hand, she has her future figured out—move up at the nightclub she works at and stay away from any guy who might trigger her obsessive love disorder. A perfect plan.

But what Alayna didn’t figure on is Hudson Pierce, the new owner of the nightclub. He’s smart, rich, and gorgeous—the kind of guy Alayna knows to stay away from if she wants to keep her past tendencies in check. Except, Hudson’s fixed his sights on her. He wants her in his bed and makes no secret of it.

Avoiding him isn’t an option after he offers a business proposition she can’t turn down and she’s drawn further into his universe, unable to resist his gravitational pull. When she learns Hudson has a dark history of his own, she realizes too late that she’s fallen for the worst man she could possibly get involved with. Or maybe their less than ideal pasts give them an opportunity to heal each other and finally find the love their lives have been missing.

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

REVIEW: FIXED ON YOU is the first storyline in Laurelin Page’s contemporary New Adult series focusing on Alayna Withers and Hudson Pierce-two dysfunctional twenty somethings with some major issues and demons in their past.

The premise follows as Hudson-a billionaire who wants Alayna in more ways than one. He is in desperate need of a ‘fake’ girlfriend to keep his meddling mother off of his back, so he offers the broke Alayna a proposition. Pretend to be his girlfriend as well as a friend with benefits, and he will pay off her university loans. The timing is perfect, as Alayna’s brother has issued an ultimatum of his own.

Alayna has some major psychological issues including an apparent stalker tendency with former lovers and men. Although she has been in court-ordered counseling for over two years, Alayna knows that to get involved with the gorgeous Hudson could ruin everything she has worked so hard to control.

Hudson is a man who believes he is incapable of love or emotions. He comes from one of the most dysfunctional family units in recent novels and the belittling and betrayal amongst the family members is enough for anyone to bury their feelings so deep that they are almost impossible to find. He considers himself cold and uncaring but Alayna will begin to chip away at the ice that holds a man’s heart.

The relationship between Alayna and Hudson begins as an arrangement but all too quickly they both begin to let their emotions rule their heads. Hudson continues to deny his feelings but everything he does screams need and want. And Alayna is worried that if their relationship should fail, she will fall back on her compulsions and obsessions.

This is a story about two people whose family history have left them with psychological scars that have yet to heal. The wounds continue to fester as those closest to them constantly pull them down and attack at every chance. No one and nothing is off limits, including secrets that should have been left alone.

FIXED ON YOU is a psychological study about two people who are dangerous to one another’s mind and soul. From a woman who cannot trust to a man who cannot feel the combination is bound to end in a heartbreaking revelation and a continued dysfunctional lifestyle.

If you like a story about two broken souls who have yet to realize that that the people in their lives are contributing to their pain, FIXED ON YOU is a story that will pull you in and make you wonder where everything all went wrong. But I will give you a heads up, the storyline is a combination of a few of the more popular series and trilogies. There is some definite FSOG and Crossfire action going on.

Reviewed by Sandy

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FOUND IN YOU (Fixed #2) by Laurelin Paige

Found in YouABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 30 , 2013

Amazon.com / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Alayna Withers has only had one kind of relationship: the kind that makes her obsessive and stalker-crazy. Now that Hudson Pierce has let her into his heart, she’s determined to break down the remaining walls between them so they can build a foundation that’s based on more than just amazing sex. Except Hudson’s not the only one with secrets.

With their pasts pulling them into a web of unfounded mistrust, Alayna turns to the one person who knows Hudson the best—Celia, the woman he almost married. Hoping for insight from someone who understands all sides of the story, Alayna forms a bond with Celia that goes too far—revealing things about Hudson that could end their love for good.

This is the first relationship where Alayna hasn’t spiraled out of control. And she might lose Hudson anyway…

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

REVIEW: FOUND IN YOU is the second storyline is Laurelin Page’s contemporary New Adult series focusing on Alayna Withers and Hudson Pierce. The series must be read in order otherwise the premise of Found In You will be lost to any new readers to this series.

Found In You continues at exactly the same spot where Fixed On You left off. Our couple have discovered that the ‘fake’ relationship has become something more-more real and more emotional than either had expected. When the couple decide to take their relationship to the next step-make something more permanent and real-there are several people waiting in the wings to tear them down and prove that they were never meant to be together.

Found In You also looks deeper into the Pierce dysfunctional family dynamics that have rendered their eldest son Hudson a emotionless man who would rather push everyone away than allow those closest to see the truth. But in the end, the truth will reveal and perhaps the cold and callous matriarch of the family has some issues of her own.

The relationship continues to be sensual and sexual but there is always the proverbial elephant in the room-will Alayna lose control of her emotions and will Hudson push Alayna away when she needs him the most.

Found in You also looks at betrayal and retribution. When Alayna is set up for a fall, she will discover just how lonely and desperate some people can be when everything is about appearances and the bottom line. Alayna will find herself on the defensive when not only Hudson’s family but her own will begin to mistrust and point fingers when old habits resurface.

FOUND IN YOU is another interesting storyline that will see both Hudson and Alayna’s pasts resurface. Trust must be earned but when the betrayer is someone close, trust becomes difficult to bear.

Reviewed by Sandy.

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Becoming A Legend/Winning The Legend by B.Kristin McMichael-a review

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Becoming A Legend/Winning The Legend by B. Kristin McMichael-a review

 The Blue eyes trilogy

Becoming a Legend June 2013Becoming A Legend
The Blue Eyes Trilogy #2 (YA)
by B. Kristin McMichael

ABOUT THE BOOK: June 14, 2013

Arianna Grace is about to turn seventeen and her life has been very complicated lately. She is the leader of four clans of night humans: dearg-dul, baku, tengu, and lycan. While the four clans seem to get along better with each other, there is internal conflict on both sides of her family, not to mention the three boys vying for her attention.

Edward Lucan is making a chase for the power to lead the baku clans and is playing his cards by using his nephew Andrew to lure Arianna into a trap. Unfortunately for Lucan, Andrew has his own plans. He has spent the last year waiting for Arianna to see him as more than a friend, and he now finds it necessary to make a move for her affection, despite his uncle.

In the dearg-dul estate, Arianna discovers that the ambitious Lord Seeger has been laying his own strategies for power and is slowly poisoning her. After getting away with her grandfather’s murder, he is setting his sights on her. Luckily for Arianna, her team is on to all of the plans and is making some plans of their own. Will it be enough to keep Arianna safe? Several people close to Arianna have been keeping secrets. If Arianna is to take power and control of the night, she will need to know the truth. Will someone finally tell her what it truly means to become the legend everyone is waiting for, before it is too late to turn back?

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REVIEW:   When we last visited with Arianna, everyone wanted a piece of her. Current status: EVERYONE STILL WANTS HER…even if it means going to war! Let’s step back into the world of day and night humans in the sequel, Becoming a Legend, by B. Kristen McMichael.

Arianna has now spent a year in this world, primarily under the guidance and tutelage of her Great Uncle, Gabriel (Baku from her father’s side), and Devin, the sole day human who represents Arianna’s now deceased maternal grandfather, Lord Randolph (Dearg-dul). Together, they protect her from those clans wishing to claim her (to produce offspring — yikes, she’s only 17!) and prepare her for adhering to the rules of the legend. Problem is? No one quite knows the legend! Every clan (13 in all) knows bits and pieces, each a piece of the larger puzzle if you will, but only Lord Randolph knew how to compile the facts and enact it: The legend stated she must have a keeper of each race to gain power over all the clans. Problem is (and there are many), Lord Randolph never intended for Arianna to embrace the legend. But the disarray following his death (and the fact that it’s a year later and the clans agree Arianna is far from completing the prophecy), their thirst for power, and how can they get it from Ari, overrides their patience. As a consequence of her refusal to marry (again, she’s only 17!), the clans collectively unite against Ari and declare war. In an effort to placate them, Ari agrees to a Tournament of Champions as a compromise. Each clan will send a representative to fight for her hand.

Now it was time for her to fight to be free to live her own life. Arianna had one month to prepare to meet her fate. She would either save the night human world or destroy it.

Aside from the unreasonableness of the competing clans, Ari has to contend with her own keepers (those who will supply blood for her sustenance and become irreversibly connected to her), the emotional intensity of those relationships, sabotage, physical and mental training, and her own maturity with developing powers. I liked Ari more in the sequel because I believe she is a gentle person who is trying to survive in a world of contention. The attachments aren’t a YA-love triangle convention that bore us to death. Becoming a Legend delves deeper into the WHY of it all and allowed me to feel empathy for Arianna. I couldn’t help but compare her plight to that of Merida from Brave and even to mild-mannered Jean Grey who transforms into the Dark Phoenix when her powers are released. Awesome women, right? There is so much world building HERE; you really must read from the beginning of the series to understand the terminology, but you’ll be glad you did.

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Winning the LegendWinning the Legend
The Blue Eyes Trilogy #3 (YA)
by B. Kristin McMichael

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 31, 2013

Arianna has gathered the outside clans to decide her fate in marriage. A tournament will be held, and she is the prize, whether she wants to be or not. The only thing she can do is watch men fight over her, or is that all she can do? Thanks to her team’s well-made plans Arianna has other strategies in place, and hopefully one just might get her freedom.

As the men gather and she learns more about the night human world, there are new allies to keep close and more enemies to keep even closer. Some even hold more secrets to her legend and possibly the actual reason to her existence. Now Arianna must decide what to do with the fate she has been dealt. Time has come to step out of the shadows of the men who protect her, and into her own power. The time is now for Arianna to take control, and fight for the destiny she wants to live

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW:  In keeping with my visceral reactions, book 3, Winning the Legend, translated to Hunger Games meets X-MEN! The tournament to compete for Arianna (aka the ultimate prize) is on, but fluctuations of many sorts are changing the course for all involved. The fabled legend may not be so idyllic. Ari is either to become an unrivaled peacemaker…or the harbinger of death!

She didn’t want to have the contest, but it was her choice to go through with it to protect everyone she loved. By having this competition, her clans avoided all-out war.

And so the contestants entered her estate to begin the process of elimination (by ranking lost matches). The competition takes center stage for this book, but I have to admit that my complaint was the competition manipulation. While some clans hid nefarious plots to win (regardless of rules), most of the participants were intent on winning Arianna’s affections. At the end of Becoming a Legend, Ari complies with part of the legend’s promise (I didn’t want to spoil it, but it’s necessary for this to make sense): Ari drank the blood of her keepers to fortify her strengths and prevent disease. Arianna trained during the 1 month lapse in time for the tournament, but she really threw her own name into the ring (remember the Merida reference?) because of the effect/potency of drinking the blood. I’d say that’s advantageous. But it didn’t end there. A few select members of her guard joined the competition as well. Needless to say, they collaborated to minimize the competitors’ chances. The Sidhe king became a major player in the challenge, but also the main proponent to win Arianna by any means necessary. I understand that each clan had its own agenda, but Arianna was just as duplicitous…and that left a bad taste in my mouth.

I admired Arianna’s tenacity and willingness to defend and unite her clans, but there were too many fundamental inequities that prevented fair play. Arianna MATED to one of her keepers! Not disclosing that knowledge…well…let me move on. Not all results are perfect, however. Arianna becomes the veritable guinea pig (picture Rogue from X-MEN) at the recommendation of an uneasy alliance when plans go astray. Catastrophes are avoided, but Ms. McMichael does provide a healthy dose of pain and loss. Love is tested, loyalty is questioned, and suspicions become a necessary warning system.

I’ve indulged in several YA stories, but this series is designed for a genuinely young audience. My lack of patience doesn’t care much for “hand-holding” writing (where I’m being directly led/told rather than follow/assume a natural progression of storyline). On the other hand, there were explanations or issues that could have used more detail or another pair of eyes to minimize inaccuracies. I’m convinced there were a few contradictions.

Arianna is thrust into an incomprehensible world at the age of 16, but quickly realizes her role cannot be taken lightly and demands her active participation. The journey is not an easy one; she has to adapt to a new environment as a leader (pretty heady responsibility!), but she’s surrounded by a devoted cast of characters who figure it out alongside her. Discover the sights and sounds (and a diet that thankfully got easier!) of this supernatural world. Hear Arianna roar as she gains confidence! I wasn’t jumping-for-joy happy with the culmination of the story, as I so favored one character in particular, but Ms. McMichael treated us to some insight at the end of Winning the Legend: Stay tuned for a spin-off!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copies supplied by the author.

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Feather Light by Lorenz Font-A Review, Interview and Giveaway

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FEATHER LIGHT by Lorenz Font-A Review, Interview and Giveaway

Feather-Light-Banner

Feather Light
by Lorenz Font
Release Date: October 10, 2013

review

Feather Light

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2013

Parker Davis has conquered three major American cities and is the new ‘it’ man in massage. He earned the nickname ‘Feather Light’ for his sensual touches, tender caresses, and soft voice eliciting an almost orgasmic release. Clients from all over clamor for his services and his clientele are growing by the minute. Business is at its peak, which makes Parker a busy man who has no time to deal with problems, let alone dwell on his blindness. With his declining vision, Parker has to accept his limitations and the changes brought forth by this disease, but he is not ready to relinquish the last control he has left. He is still the master in his bedroom.

Kelly Storm, a Hollywood actress, will do whatever it takes to get some much-deserved peace. Being famous has its perks, except the little privacy her popularity afforded her is slowly eating at her. With the paparazzi hounding her every minute of the day, and her personal life under constant scrutiny, Kelly wants a semblance of normalcy wherever she can get it. Under the urging of a close friend, she agrees to give Parker a try.

••••••••••••••••••••

4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Feather Light by Lorenz Font is classified as a contemporary erotica novel. This is the first book I have ever read by this author and I found it to be an interesting read. It didn’t blow my mind but I felt engaged in the story and characters enough to keep flipping the pages! The erotica was mild in my opinion. There were elements of BDSM, role playing and an honest desire to please between our main couple. There was no sexual line crossed that made me cringe and reading these two get to know each other sexually was quite sweet and humorous. I can see an average couple who want to spice up the bedroom engaging in kind of play these two do.

Our main man is Parker Davis, massage therapist, business owner, kinky, dominant, smart, hot, funny and fun and everyone loves and admires him. He also is suffering from a degenerative eye disease that has left him legally blind (he can make our shapes and such if the light is just right). Parker has refused to let this disease slow him down and hold him back in his life. With the help of his trusted brother and close female friend, Parker can accomplish anything and you had better think twice if you try to pity his fine ass. Parker has a reputation of providing the best massages money can buy. It’s not sex he is selling on the massage table but his feather light touch and beautiful soul somehow speaks to his clients and allows them a place to be emotionally vulnerable. Many have found emotional release and by referring his services, Parker now owns several businesses across the USA.

Kelly Storm is our main lady. She has become a seriously talented actress who is now quite the overnight sensation. Coming off a bad relationship however, her self esteem has taken a beating. She constantly has to disguise herself when she is in public and she feels suffocated by the oppressive paparazzi. When she is booked an appointment on Parker massage table, she is disguised and absolutely blown away at the capacity that this man has at stripping away all her pain.

These two have an instant connect. Parker knows there is something special about this woman despite the fact that he can’t see her. Kelly hides behind the name Ann and before she realizes that this lie will bite her, she is head over heels in love with Parker. Parker is desperate to dominate Ann (Kelly) and he also begins to fall hard. Can this relationship survive on the lie that is between them? Can Parker forgive Ann (Kelly) for the deceit he is surely soon to discover??

This book would of been a 3 out of 5 for me if it were not for the last quarter of this book. The first three quarters was a little choppy (meaning that I interpreted an abrupt end scene, enter new scene) and I wish there was a smoother flow. I rolled my eyes a couple of times but I always found and adored the humor. I wanted to smack Kelly and tell her to spill it already and thought she was kind of an idiot for holding her secret back … but that is what the story is about right?? LOL The last quarter, I have to admit I had a book of tissues with me. I cried my eyes out as the hurt and the betrayal came out, and especially for Parker who is seriously deep inside truly full of issues himself. I think the author did absolute justice to this aspect of the book.

So while this isn’t a light fluffy read, it isn’t as heavy as it could of been! This is a good book for those that have never read anything with the BDSM element.

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Copy supplied by the author.

 

Interview

Lorenz FontTRC: Hi Lorenz and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of Feather Light.

Lorenz: Thank you. It’s nice to be here.

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Lorenz: I’m a late bloomer. Upon graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Literature, I had no idea what to do with myself. I stumbled along until one day I found myself with grown children, a contented husband, and nothing much to occupy my time. With my free time came the realization that I have this little untapped gift for telling stories. That was when I discovered the exciting and crazy world of fiction writing, and I’ve never looked back.

Feather LightTRC: FEATHER LIGHT is your October 2013 release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Lorenz: Feather Light is a different take on erotic romance. First of all, the leading man is not your usual hero. Parker projects a confident façade while harboring a deep resentment for his physical limitation. He also enjoys controlling his partner in the bedroom. Then he meets Kelly, our leading lady who is not quite upfront with her identity from the first day they met. What we get is a whole lot of static filled with playful scenes and a heavy dose of reality.

TRC: Many readers are very tactile. They like to ‘feel’ the emotions of the characters–and your leading male is a very ‘tactile’ character. How difficult was it to write about a character who is blind and everything he feels and touches must be delivered to the reader through touch and emotions?

Lorenz: It wasn’t difficult to write Parker’s character. In order to write a believable story, I did a diligent research. This included reading articles about blind people and their challenges. I found myself closing my eyes in several instances and directing my energy toward using my hands to feel surfaces. I tried to put myself in my character’s shoes in order to create a realistic scenario.

TRC: What or who was the inspiration behind FEATHER LIGHT and the leading characters?

Lorenz: Feather Light was a 500-word drabble that I’d shelved two years ago. It wasn’t until I joined the contest at TWCS that I figured out that I’m ready to deal with the real issue. It’s inspired by a person dear to me.

TRC: Are any of the characters or situations in the storyline based in reality or an amalgamation of your imagination and current headlines?

Lorenz: It is pure fiction. By the time the contest was over, I stumbled upon this touching video on YouTube. Allow me to share it with you and your followers.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters in the series, which models or actors would be represent your projected image?

Lorenz: Oh, this is going to be difficult. I can never come up with faces of famous people to associate with my characters.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Lorenz: It’s a two-way street. I try to develop the characters in my head before anything else. This could include their behavior, quirks and how they’d respond to any given situation. By the time the developmental stage is over and the story has taken off, the characters often times take over and does most of the writing for me.

TRC: Are you a plotter or a pantster?

Lorenz: I don’t do story outlines. I realize that there is an inherent peril to this, but I can’t get myself to write an outline only to move away from its premise come writing time. I dislike the feeling of being caged. There is a liberating feeling that I get when I freestyle. I work with a firm beginning and idea of the ending of the story, the rest is going to be an exciting journey.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, etc) did you encounter writing this particular story?

Lorenz: It has more to do with a certain violent scene that might be a trigger for some readers. It took me several rewrites to get the manuscript to an acceptable level.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Lorenz: I have several trusted friends who will jot down notes for me while I babble on about a concept I want to develop. They usually ask me questions to keep my ideas rolling. It’s a fun process for me.

TRC: How do you keep the plot unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability?

Lorenz: I approach a certain conflict and twist it into two scenarios in my head. I usually choose the one that makes the most sense to me.

TRC: How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of deadlines while still having time to raise a family?

Lorenz: As I mentioned earlier, my children are grown. The two younger ones are in college while the eldest graduated three years ago. So it’s safe to say that they’re self-sufficient. My hubby took over the cooking and running errands to give me enough time to meet my deadlines after my busy day at work.

TRC: If you could be a contestant on a reality television program, which program would you chose and why?

Lorenz: Sorry, I don’t have time to watch TV these days, although I did check out the much anticipated season premiere of Sons of Anarchy for a brief moment. It’s an intense show and I wouldn’t mind watching if I ever find a free moment.

TRC: What are your thoughts on book reviews-good or bad?

Lorenz: Any form of review is welcomed. Of course, a positive review makes me happy but I won’t begrudge a negative review. Whether I agree with a negative review or not, the reader is giving me their opinion. I try to take each one with a grain of salt and see which part of their comment I can work on in future projects.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Lorenz: I’m currently writing Ascension, the third installment of The Gates Legacy Trilogy—a paranormal romance. It’s scheduled to be released in May 2014. At the same time, I’m working on editing the first draft of a young adult novel I recently finished writing.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Lorenz: I have another contemporary romance novel that is slated for July 2014 release. It’s about a career soldier returning from the war with serious emotional and physical scars.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- Tofu and Sushi

Favorite Dessert- Haagen Daz coffee ice cream

Favorite TV Show- none at the moment

Last Movie You Saw- I think it’s Star Trek-Into Darkness

Dark or Milk Chocolate- Milk Chocolate

Favorite Flower- Tulip and Mums

Last Vacation Destination- Kauia, Hawaii

Pet Peeve- Slow drivers in the fast lane

Secret Celebrity Crush- James Franco

TRC: Thank you Lorenz for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best with your writing career.

Lorenz: Thank you for having me. More power to your blog.

about the author

FOLLOW: Goodreads/ Website / Twitter / Facebook

Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. She is currently enjoying the buzz from her debut novel Hunted, the first book of The Gates Legacy Trilogy and Indivisible Line, a romantic thriller. Her newest novel, Tormented, the second installment of The Gates Legacy, is now available for vampire lovers everywhere.

Writing is a therapy for Lorenz, and a perfect day consists of writing and playing with her characters while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She enjoys dabbling in different genres with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.

Lorenz currently lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. She divides her time between a full-time job as a Business Office Manager for a hospital and her busy writing schedule.

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Sidelined by Kendra C. Highley-a review

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SIDELINED by Kendra C Highley-a review

Sidelined

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 1, 2013

After being pushed to excel her entire life, high school basketball star Genna Pierce is finally where she wants to be. University scouts are taking notice, her team is on its way to the state tourney, and Jake Butler, the hot boy she’s daydreamed about since ninth grade, is showing some definite interest. When he asks her out and their relationship takes off, Genna believes things can’t get better.

Then, it’s over.

A freak accident ends her career before it’s even begun. Her parents are fighting more than ever, her friends don’t understand what she’s going through, and she’s not sure who she is without basketball. And while he tries to be there for her, Genna doesn’t understand how Jake could ever want the broken version of the girl he fell for.

Her life in a tailspin, Genna turns to the only solace that eases her pain: Vicodin.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SIDELINED is a young adult (YA) contemporary storyline that tackles some issues of addiction and dependency, the break up of a family but also looks at the push to succeed at all costs.

Genna Pierce is a talented and scouted high school basketball player who is on the verge of making it big. But a reckless play and a career ending injury would force Genna to the sidelines-a place where neither she nor her mother wanted her to be.

The storyline follows Genna as the boy she has crushed on for years, finally takes notice, just as Genna’s star power begins to fall. And to complicate matters, Genna’s injury required major surgery that has left her with lingering pain and an addiction to Vicodin that spirals out of control rather quickly.

The reader watches as Genna’s life, family and career hit rock bottom and her relationship with Jake turns ugly. Genna’s character and personality deteriorate over the weeks and months, and her addiction and loss of control are only the beginning.

I did question some of the premise as it pertained to the legal problems and the quick turn around and action of the DEA. In reality there would be a longer time frame and a bigger case to build before some of the plot information and details surfaced.

The character of Genna is difficult to like although she does endure some harrowing pain and suffering. Her attitude prior to the injury was aggressive and not very flattering and afterwards it was amplified by her addiction, embarrassment and perceived humiliation. Genna’s loss of control and power over her career and her life manifested into anger against those that she loved the most.

This is also a story about a family that is slowly pulled apart by the actions of their own. Betrayal and heartache only scratch the surface of dysfunctional family dynamics and the devastating injury to their star child is the final straw that breaks the proverbial back.

Kendra C. Highley has written a story that will be all too familiar to many families and young athletes hoping to make it to the professional leagues. The push to win at all costs; the drive to succeed; and the harrowing loss of control when an injury sidelines not only the athlete but the family as well.

Copy supplied by the publisher-Entangled Teen.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Cursed by Monica Wolfson – a Review

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Cursed by Monica Wolfson – a Review

CursedLinks to order Cursed: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
When 17-year-old Sasha orders her latte at a local café, she hardly expects to get robbed. Strangely, the men don’t want money from the register. Instead they are interested in the necklace she is wearing that her mother gave her years ago.
Sasha can’t understand why the men would want the worthless piece of stained glass that hangs around her neck from a leather cord. It’s not worth anything or is it? She comes to realize not all value is measured in dollars and cents.
This is the night she meets Evan, who saves her life by distracting the robbers as the couple dodge flying bullets. It takes days for Sasha to acknowledge that her burgeoning magic abilities helped keep them safe. She’s adamant in keeping that secret from Evan. She doesn’t want him to know she’s a freak.
Cursed is a thrilling romantic and exhilarating read. Monica Wolfson takes readers to a fantasy world they won’t want to leave

Review:

Cursed by Monica Wolfson is her first foray into Young Adult.  The heroine of this story is Sasha, whom we meet right away sitting in a café, and two men attack her trying to steal her necklace.  On the same night she meets our hero, Evan, as he is behind the counter at the café.  Sasha has some magical abilities, which she uses to help fight off the attackers, with help from Evan. 

Sasha finds herself attracted to Evan, but he isn’t really interested in any kind of relationship.  When Sasha discovers her life is in danger, she tries to find out why from her mother, Willow.  At the very beginning of the story, in a prologue, we are in the past when we see Sasha’s mother at the age of 17, running away from home, and her angry mother, the Queen of Tysseland, puts a curse on her.  It is later that we find out that this curse is on Sasha, and her chance of surviving is nil. 

Sasha learns her mother’s secret, and that her mother is the daughter of a Queen in a universe she has never heard of.  Her mother refuses to tell her anything, other then she is trying to help her.  Sasha decides she must find a way to break the curse and try to save herself.  Evan having come to Sasha’s rescue a few times, begins to realize that he is falling for her; and offers his help, as they both find a way to enter the universe, Tysseland.

What follows is an interesting fantasy tale into a universe run by an evil Queen, who is Sasha’s grandmother.  Sasha learns to use some of her powers, but she is no match for the very powerful Queen.  The last quarter of the book is exciting and at times fun meeting the different characters, as they all help Sasha escape the wrath of the Queen, who wants her dead. 

Evan and Sasha made a nice couple, as this was a slow build on the romance, which made it more realistic. I liked Sasha, as the heroine, who was determined to do what she had to do to save herself, despite the danger and threat on her life.  Evan proved himself to her by being with her every step of the way, even if he had no powers.  The power of love did come through at the end. 

I thought this was a good storyline, especially being in Tysseland.  I did feel it was a bit slow early on, and despite her wanting to protect her daughter, I wasn’t crazy about Sasha’s mother.  I would have liked more about Tysseland, as well as Sasha’s mother and friends helping her.  Sasha & Evan against the powerful Queen needed a little more firepower and support.  However, that being said, it does have excellent potential to continue into an excellent series

Review by Barb

Copy provided by Author

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Cover Reveal-The Bottom Line and Signed, Sealed,Delivered by Sandy James

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Cover Reveal-The Bottom Line and Signed, Sealed, Delivered by Sandy James

The Bottom Line
The Ladies Who Lunch Series #1
by Sandy James
Release Date: February 2014

Pre Order Links: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

The Bottom Line

After more than a year of upheaval, Mallory Hamilton has reached her fill of change–with one exception. Her house is a disaster, and she wants it fixed. By restoring her house, she hopes she might be able to banish the last of the memories of her failed marriage and the misery of the past year.

Ben Carpenter is thrilled to work on Mallory’s home. He’s raising his thirteen year old daughter, Amber, and could use the additional income. Since his out-of-control, bi-polar ex-wife, Theresa, refuses to get treatment or take medication, Ben is practically a single parent. He has to walk a fine line between dealing with the negative consequences of Theresa’s manic episodes while not destroying the relationship between mother and daughter.

Mallory and Ben grow closer as he works on the house–forcing her to realize that not every man is like her loser ex-husband. And of course a little push from her three closest lunch time friends helps her to get out of her own way when it comes to love.

________________________________

Signed, Sealed, Delivered
Ladies Who Lunch Series #2
by Sandy James
Release Date: February 2014

Pre Order Links: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /

Signed Sealed DeliveredJuliana Kelley has spent thirteen years as a special education teacher and can’t face another school year. While having lunch with her three best friends–a group they dubbed the “Ladies Who Lunch”–Jules decides to take control of her life. First step, change her career.

Connor Low has hit rock bottom. After earning a reputation as a highly successful realtor, he lets his love for gambling spiral out of control. When he loses his job, he finally pulls himself together. Armed with inside information, he heads to a small town on the cusp of a real estate boom.

When Connor and Jules meet, their chemistry is immediate. But the two put aside their feelings to become business partners. Still, the more they’re together the harder it becomes to deny their attraction. Now, Connor and Juliana must choose–give in to their desires and risk the prosperous business they’ve built, or forget about their growing relationship and a second chance at love, success, and happiness.

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In His Stead ( A Father’s War) by Judith Sanders-A review, guest post and giveaway

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IN HIS STEAD (A Father’s War) by Judith Sanders-a review, guest post and giveaway

In His Stead Banner

In His Stead
A Father’s War
by Judith Sanders

Release Date November 2012

In His Stead

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2012

AN ANCIENT LAW, A MODERN WAR, AND A FATHER’S LOVE THAT KNOWS NO BOUNDS…

Retired Army Ranger Thomas Lane once burned for the taste of gunpowder and the thrill of the battle. But as he struggles to cope with his own PTSD and the death of his eldest son, killed by an IED in Afghanistan, Lane learns that the price of war is far too dear.

When the National Guard calls up Lane’s youngest son to serve, Lane knows he will do anything to save his child—even if it means going in his place, a pursuit unheard of since the Civil War when slaves were sent to war in place of their masters.

In His Stead, Judith Sander’s second novel, follows Thomas Lane’s crusade against the United States Army, its JAG corps, a vengeful officer, the very son he is desperate to save, and his own wife, who has the Solomon-like choice of losing either a husband or a son.

Capturing the essence of family life in wartime—the good, the bad, and the hopeful—In His Stead explores what it means to be a father and a man.

REVIEW:

In His Stead is a contemporary storyline that reads like a psychological study in guilt, torment and fear.

The premise focuses on a little known civil war law that allowed a slave to take his master’s place on the battlefield. In this particular storyline, Thomas Lane had already lost one son to the war in Afghanistan and to prevent the death of his second son, he invokes his rights as an American citizen to fight in his son’s place- ‘in his stead’.

I am not sure as to the accuracy of this particular law and if it can still be used today. I am not American and at this point I will not go into the background of America at War but the emotional ride that is this story is one that can only be felt by any parent who fears for the loss of a child.

Thomas Lane’s guilt and fear is enhanced as he blames himself. Like many parents he was busy building a foundation and life for his family but in doing so, his priorities left the children vying for their father’s attention. When his second son Donnie got into trouble with the law, Thomas intervened and Donnie found himself serving in the National Guard to avoid a jail sentence. Donnie’s unit was called into action and deployed to Afghanistan and Thomas’s guilt knew no boundaries. He wasn’t about to lose another son to the war, so ‘in his stead’ Thomas took his son’s place.

The story also focuses on the family dynamics at home. The dutiful wife and mother; the eldest son and hero lost to a war; the screw up son who believes he is worthless; and a country at war, not of their making. It is also about a father’s guilt.

Some readers will struggle with the storyline premise including the political and sociological overtones of America at war and the number of young people dying to serve their country for personal and financial gain. Others will struggle with the plausibility of the storyline-sending a fifty something former soldier into war because his son is too frightened to go and in the end, said son, is all about the hero that is his father.

Overall, In His Stead, is a storyline that serves to relay a political message and one that the readers may or may not agree. I tried to remain neutral throughout the story but it was difficult – I am not American and my opinion about this war will remain my own.

In His Stead is an interesting and emotional storyline. Not emotional in the sense that I felt the character’s angst and pain, but emotional in that I still struggle with the concept and the reality of a war that is showing no signs of ending; where sons and daughter, husbands and wives, mothers and fathers are dying for a cause that no one can remember as to why!

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

The Sticky Process of Writing
By Judith Sanders

Follow Judith at : Goodreads / Website / Twitter /

Judith SandersWhen I think about my process for writing a novel it reminds of my best and worst dreams rolled together like a piece of twisted taffy.

Writing fiction gives me the chance to take what my brain would ordinarily label as weird, keep it to myself material and give it life. And to make that happen I have to untwist my ideas and reform them in a logical process. While that might sound boring, I find it fascinating.

I start with a rough outline to keep me on track and moving in my chosen direction. While that may sound silly I have a tendency to get so involved in a scene that I stray off course.

Then I write character profiles. These are very detailed and include not only a physical description of each character but his or her birthdays, allergies, foods likes and dislikes, their personal quirks (these set them apart from the other characters and make them easily recognizable by my readers), and of course each has a distinct voice.

After I have complete the profiles my characters are as real to me as my family, in fact they become part of my family, at least until I send them out into the world.

Next I write a very detailed outline constructing plot points that will keep my readers engaged. In each chapter I try to answer a question and develop a new query that moves the end story forward. I hope my writing is like a scavenger hunt where my readers can’t wait to turn the page and find more.

I write two or three drafts of the same novel and often develop different twists in each. And that happens because as much as I plan, it is not unusual for one of my characters to go rogue and do the unexpected. While that changes the direction of my writing it doesn’t mean that the new incident is unwanted. Several times a character has become more interesting than I planned and the story enriched.

Writing is fun, publishing is the sticky part of the business and believe me publishing is big business. I read an article that said there are at least four thousand new manuscripts circulating through literary agents everyday. The odds of being picked up by a publisher are as great, if not greater, than winning the lottery.

So why do I write? Because, I absolutely love the process. The freedom of exposing my strange brain to strangers from a distance is irresistible. And the feeling of accomplishment is indescribable. Try it and you too will become addicted to the independence and freedom the expression of writing can offer.

My latest In His Stead: A Father’s War (received Indie Excellence Finalist Award) are available in all formats. Please check out my website http://ironwordpress.com for more information on writing and to read excerpts of my novels.

Proceeds from sales of In His Stead help support http://HeartsApart.org , a charity for military families.

ORDER your copy of IN HIS STEAD at :

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

giveaway

Judith is offering a copy of IN HIS STEAD to one lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

Prize: Paper copy (US) or ecopy (International)

1. If you have not registered, please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social logins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Giveaway guidelines: Paper copy (US) or ecopy (International)

4. Giveaway runs from October 11 to October 14, 2013

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