Otherwise Occupied by Shay Savage Blog Tour Stop and Giveaway

Title: Otherwise Occupied (Otherwise Alone #2) by Shay Savage

Release Date: June 17^th, 2013

Genre: Adult Romance

Summary:

Evan Arden is a hit man for a Chicago mob boss. He lives his life day to day with the company of his dog, Odin. He has to work hard to get back into his boss’s good graces, but the target proves to be difficult. As demons of his past begin to haunt him, he seeks the comfort of sleep from an unlikely candidate, but will confiding in her be his undoing?​

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17447582-otherwise-occupied

Author’s Amazon Page:

http://www.amazon.com/Shay-Savage/e/B00AP83E7S/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1371406501&sr=1-2-ent

Author Bio:

Shay Savage lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband, two children, and a variety of household pets. She is an accomplished public speaker, and holds the rank of Distinguished Toastmaster from Toastmasters International. When not writing, she enjoys science fiction movies, and loves soccer in any and all forms. During the fall, she coaches her daughter's soccer team. Though she currently works in the technology field, her school background is in psychology, and she brings a lot of that knowledge into the characters within her stories.

Find out more at www.shaysavage.com

This is the follow Up To:  Otherwise Alone (Otherwise Alone #1) by Shay Savage

Amazon Buy Link For Book #1:

http://www.amazon.com/Otherwise-Alone-Evan-Arden-ebook/dp/B00AP5NNWC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1371406468&sr=1-1&keywords=otherwise+alone+shay

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Blog Tour Stop and Review: In Too Deep by Michelle Kemper Brownlow

In Too Deep by Michelle Kemper Brownlow

Publication date: June 6th 2013

by Sapphire Star Publishing

Genre: New Adult Romance

Synopsis:

Long- Gracie has just finished her freshman year of college in Memphis when she takes a job at a local pizza joint in her home town of McKenzie, Tennessee. She is the epitome of innocence when she meets Noah. Noah is unabashedly handsome, intriguingly reckless and just cocky enough to be sexy. Gracie’s instincts tell her to stay far away from him and based on the stories she hears from her co-workers he leaves broken hearts in his wake. But still, she can’t explain her fascination with him.

Noah puts aside his bad boy ways when what he thought was a summer crush has him unexpectedly falling in love. But soon after Gracie transfers to UT Knoxville to be with Noah, their unexpected love becomes riddled with anger, deceit and humiliation.

Jake, Noah’s former roommate and Gracie’s best friend, can no longer be a bystander. Gracie’s world falls out from beneath her and when she breaks she turns to Jake for strength. As Jake talks her through a decision she’s not yet strong enough to make, together they uncover a truth so ugly neither of them is prepared for its fallout. Will Jake pull her to the surface or is Gracie Jordan finally In Too Deep?

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17408300-in-too-deep?ac=1

Purchase:

--Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Too-Deep-Michelle-Kemper-Brownlow/dp/1938404602/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369835521&sr=1-1

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AUTHOR BIO

Michelle Kemper Brownlow has been a storyteller her entire life. Her debut was on the high school cheerleading bus granting requests to re-tell her most embarrassing moments for a gaggle of hysterical squadmates. 

Earning her Bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in Art Education and then marrying her very own “Jake,” she moved to Binghamton, NY where she taught high school. After having two children she quit work and finished her Master’s degree in Elementary Education at Binghamton University.

The Brownlow family of four moved to Michelle’s hometown of Morgantown, PA while the children were still quite young. A few years after moving, her family grew by one when they welcomed a baby into their home through the gift of adoption. The family still resides in PA, just miles from where that high school cheer bus was parked.

Michelle has been an artist for as long as she can remember, always choosing pencils and crayons over toys and puzzles. As a freelance illustrator, her simple characters play the starring roles in numerous emergent reader books published by Reading Reading Books.

“Writing is my way of making sense of the world. When I give my characters life on the pages I write, it frees up space in my mind to welcome in new stories that are begging to be told,” says Brownlow

Links:

Website: http://www.sapphirestarpublishing.com/michellekemperbrownlow

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6951309.Michelle_Kemper_Brownlow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.k.brownlow

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MK_Brownlow

My Review:

Oh my word! Gah! This book is infuriating, uplifting, realistic and oh did I mention infuriating? Honestly, I am so torn over how to rate this book that I’m going to do my first ever review without providing a rating.

After reading this book, I was forced to consider how to rate and review books. The story itself was intriguing, but I couldn’t stomach the characters at all. I wasn’t fully invested in the characters and it made me not care as much as I should about the outcome of the plot. That being said, I think the author did a great job of portraying a victim of psychological abuse and what that does to the person’s feelings of self-worth.

The plot centers on Grace and her emotionally abusive douchebag of a boyfriend Noah. The book opens with this Romeo allowing Grace to service him after he snuck off to another room of a party where another girl performed oral sex on him. Noah admits that he’s been cheating on Grace and pretty much brags about it to her. Because Grace seemingly has a death wish, she takes Noah back pretty much immediately (even agreeing to go for lunch with his mom the next day?!) and the abuse continues.

I had a hard time understanding Grace’s initial attraction to Noah. The story includes flashbacks with Grace leaving her nice guy boyfriend for bad boy Noah. However, he came off more as an obnoxious a-hole than a bad boy. He tells her on their first outing together to shut up and calls swirling fireworks “spermies” (be still my heart, gag). There didn’t seem to be much of a honeymoon period for these two.

As you can tell, I wasn’t a fan of Noah (which readers aren't supposed to be) and to be honest Grace bothered me as well. It wasn’t her doormat behavior that bugged me because I was able to empathize that she was damaged to the point that she basically let Noah walk all over her. It was her self-righteousness that got to me, i.e. calling other girls sluts, wanting to beat other women up for her boyfriend hitting on them, her constant insistence of being a “good girl.”

Jake was by far my favorite of the book and I’m glad the author included a guy that readers could fall in love with. The way he healed Grace was touching and once their relationship took center stage, the book was a much easier read.

   

This book handled a tough subject and I respect the author for trying to bring attention to victims of emotional abuse. There are books that romanticize bad boys who treat women like crap and it was refreshing to see a depiction of when that kind of behavior has serious repercussions.

Considering the book garnered such an emotional response from me, I would definitely say it’s worth a look. The author took me on an emotional roller coaster and the novel will likely stay with me for a while. 

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Stacking the Shelves #44

Stacking the Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews and features books you've added to your shelves, both physical and virtual.

Only four new books this week! This is great because I've been so busy with work and end of school year stuff for my Kindergartener that my reading time has been almost non-existent.

For Review:

Fall from Love by Heather London

Rule by Jay Crownover

Jet by Jay Crownover

Branded by Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki

Blog Tour Stop and Review: Tragic by J.A. Huss

Tragic by J.A. Huss

Publication date:  May 20th 2013 

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Rook Walsh is TRAGIC

Because life so far – just sucks.  Some girls get parents.  Rook got the foster care system.  Some girls get Prince Charming.  Rook got an abusive frog.  Some girls get lucky…

Rook got a second chance.

And she took it.  Because when fate throws you a bone – you grab it with both hands and run.

Antoine Chaput knows the minute he spies Rook in his photography studio that she’s got The Look.  The dark and desperate look he must have to land the exclusive TRAGIC media contract.

Rook is paired up with top model, Ronin, and he’s everything her abusive ex-boyfriend wasn’t. Patient, gentle, happy, attentive, and sexy!  He knows exactly what to do to make Rook blush for Antoine’s portfolio.

Rook’s luck changes in an instant and suddenly she’s the darling of the modeling world.  It’s a dream job to go with a dream guy and all she has to do is look pretty and follow directions. But there’s always a price to pay – and Rook is about to get the bill.

TRAGIC is a new adult contemporary romance.

Trailer:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agh17mzbbg4

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17404203-tragic

Purchase:

-Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tragic-j-a-huss/1115333691?ean=9781936413218&itm=1&usri=9781936413218

-Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/TRAGIC-Rook-Ronin-1-ebook/dp/B00CTUWEFI

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AUTHOR BIO

J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label). 

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers. 

Author links:

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

My Review:

What an awesome book! As I write this review, I’m seriously trying to come up with something critical to say, but there’s honestly not a single thing I’d change. I loved it all: great plot, amazing characters and some super sexy scenes.

I have to admit I was a little skeptical when I first read the synopsis. A book about models? Ugh, usually not my thing at all. But as usual my preconceptions were blown out of the water and I instantly fell in love with Rook and Ronin.

Rook had me from the first page. I loved her snark and her ballsy attitude. She’s brought into this crazy modeling lifestyle when she shows up at a test shoot after pinching an invitation from a model at a Starbucks. Rook is tough, but I loved how the author made it clear that there was something very fragile about the down on her luck girl as well. Ronin was tougher to figure out, but this made him the perfect New Adult lead. The mysteriousness combined with the sexy descriptions made him drool worthy.

The pacing was fantastic and I never felt it dragging in parts. I liked that readers were brought on this journey with Rook as she was introduced to the world of modeling by the photographer Antoine, Ronin and Ronin’s sister Elise. The photo shoots were so damn hot! The sexual chemistry between Rook and Ronin was smoldering from their very first meeting and the heat continued to build.

There is also plenty of angst between the characters and Rook and Ronin both have some issues to resolve before a happily ever after.

I absolutely loved the book and I can’t wait for the sequel!

Rating: 5/5 Stars  

I received a copy of Tragic as part of the blog tour from Xpresso Book Tours.

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Off the Record by Sawyer Bennett Book Blitz and eBook Set Giveaway

Title:  Off the Record

Author:  Sawyer Bennett

Publisher:  Big Dog Books

Release date:  June 11, 2013

Genre:  Contemporary romance

Age Group:  New Adult

Event organized by: AToMR Tours

Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17852664-off-record

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Off-The-Record-ebook/dp/B00DAHFEJW

Book Description:

The sparks of dislike burn hot, but the sparks of mutual attraction burn even hotter.

Ever Montgomery suffered the ultimate betrayal by the one man who she should have been able to count on for anything. It has left her hurt, jaded and incapable of forming relationships, but it also means that she can spot a liar a mile away.  These traits are earning her a reputation as a reporter with a keen nose for a good story and a complete understanding of the extreme power of the written word.

Lincoln Caldwell, is the hot goalie for the New York Rangers. At twenty-four and a rising star, he works hard and he plays even harder. He’s gorgeous and carefree—the ultimate charmer.  Ladies fall at his feet and the single life has never been lived the way Linc Caldwell does it.

When Ever publishes an article about Linc containing information that she received off the record, she finds herself on the receiving end of the athelete’s fury.  Rather than basking in the glory of exposing Linc as a shameless user of women, she finds herself at his mercy when he demands and receives retribution.  Required by her editor to trail Linc for six weeks, Ever is forced to look at the real Linc Caldwell.

 And she just might find that she has misjudged him.

About the Author

Sawyer Bennett is the pen name for a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. She is married to a mobster (well, a market researcher) and they have two big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn't have many weakness but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Author social media links:

www.sawyerbennett.com

www.facebook.com/bennettbooks

www.twitter.com/bennettbooks

Excerpt

A pounding on my door interrupts my thoughts. I walk to open it and Emily storms in.

“I’m going to kill her, Linc. I swear it...I’m going to kill her. Then Nix will help me bury her body where it won’t be found.”

I can’t help but smile at Emily. She’s so feisty and protective. My brother lucked out with this one. “I appreciate the offer, Em, but I’m going to handle it a bit more subtly.”

Nix snorts. “There’s nothing subtle about what you’re getting ready to do.”

Emily looks at me questioningly, even as she drapes herself across Nix’s lap. His arms go around her to squeeze and my heart warms just looking at the love between those two.

“What are you going to do?” she asks.

Taking the last sip of my coffee, I head back to my room to take a shower. “I’m going to destroy her and when I’m through, she’ll wish she never met Linc Caldwell.”

Giveaway

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 eBooks is $5.98 USD. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners will be selected after June 22, 2013 randomly by Rafflecopter. Entries will be reviewed for accuracy. Heather's Book Chatter 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 eBooks will be provided via email 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 blog’s discretion with email verification by June 24, 2013. Any taxes associated will be paid by the author unless otherwise stated. Heather's Book Chatter has the right to obtain and publicize the winners name and likeness. Void where prohibited by law.

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The Disappearing Girl Is Free Today and Tomorrow!!!

Grab a free Kindle copy of The Disappearing Girl from Amazon.com today and tomorrow! Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Disappearing-Girl-ebook/dp/B00CMR7GFQ

Blurb:

Kayla Marlowe is slowly vanishing…

Last year, Kayla’s world imploded. Her beloved father died, leaving her alone with a narcissistic mother who is quick to criticize her daughter’s appearance. During her winter break from college, Kayla’s dangerous obsession with losing weight begins.

Kayla feels like her world changes for the better overnight. Being skinny seems to be the key to the happiness she has desperately been seeking. Her mother and friends shower her with compliments, telling her how fantastic she looks. Kayla is starving, but no one knows it.

Cameron Bennett explodes into Kayla’s life. He’s sexy and kind—he has every quality she has been looking for in a guy. As Cameron grows closer to Kayla and learns of how far she’s willing to go to stay thin, he becomes desperate to save her.

Kayla’s struggles with anorexia and bulimia reach a breaking point and she is forced to confront her body image issues in order to survive. She wonders if Cameron could be the one to help heal her from the pain of her past.

New Adult Contemporary-Ages 17+ due to language and sexual situations.

Eversea by Natasha Boyd Book Blitz and eBook Giveaway

Book & Author Details:

Eversea by Natasha Boyd

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance 

Publication date: June 10th 2013

Synopsis:

• An orphaned small-town southern girl, burdened by responsibility and stuck in time.

• A Hollywood A-list mega-star, on the run from his latest scandal and with everything to lose.

• A chance encounter that leads to an unlikely arrangement and epic love affair that will change them both forever.

When his co-star and real-life girlfriend is caught cheating on him with her married and much older director, A-list hottie, Jack Eversea, finds himself in sleepy Butler Cove, South Carolina. Jack hopes the sultry southern heat in this tiny coastal Lowcountry town will hide him not only from the tabloids and his cheating girlfriend, but his increasingly vapid life and the people who run it.  He doesn’t count on meeting Keri Ann Butler. 

Keri Ann has relied on herself so long, dealing with her family’s death and the responsibilities of keeping up her family’s historic mansion, that boys and certainly the meager offering of eligible boys in Butler Cove, have never figured into her equation.  But fate has other plans.  Suddenly face to face with the man who played the movie role of her favorite fictional character, Jack has Keri Ann yearning for everything she has previously avoided ... and Jack must decide whether this funny, sassy girl is worth changing his life for, before his mistakes catch up to him.

Eversea is a FINALIST in the Winter Rose Unpublished Contest for 2013

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17793815-eversea?ac=1

Purchase:

--Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Eversea-ebook/dp/B00D7VSQEQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370537334&sr=8-1&keywords=Eversea+Natasha+Boyd

--Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/eversea-natasha-boyd/1115517441?ean=2940016678870

Teaser: 

Jack stepped toward me. If it was possible, he suddenly looked predatory.

Pressing my back further against the cool wall at his approach, I held my breath as he planted his palms flat against the wall behind me, his body hovering a scant inch from mine and his head ducking straight down to my neck.

“I’m glad we have our reasons laid out, Keri Ann,” he said quietly, breathing his words into my ear in a torrent of snapping electricity. “But that doesn’t mean it’s never going to happen.”

My stomach flipped over, and my breath whooshed out into a deep and embarrassing pant. Placing my hands against his hard chest, I pushed him away to arms length. “Wow, did anyone ever tell you how arrogant you are?”

“Not arrogant. Confident. There’s a difference.”

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AUTHOR BIO

Natasha Boyd is a writer with a background in marketing and public relations. She lives in the coastal Carolina Lowcountry, complete with Spanish moss, alligators and mosquitoes the size of tiny birds.  She has a husband, two sons and a cat named Tuna.  Eversea is her first full-length novel. 

Author Links:

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter 

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