Ascenders Review

Posted on January 26, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Ascenders: High School for the Recently Departed

by C.L. Gaber

Release Date: April 20th 2015

Summary (from Goodreads)

Walker Callaghan doesn’t know what happened to her. One minute she was living her teenage life in suburban Chicago…and the next minute, she was in a strange place and in a brand new school with absolutely no homework, no rules, and no consequences.

Walker Callaghan, 17, is dead.

She doesn’t go to heaven or hell. She lands at The Academy, a middle realm where teenagers have one thing in common: They were the morning announcement at their high schools because they died young.

These high school kids are now caught in a strange “in-between” zone where life hasn’t changed very much. In fact, this special teen limbo looks a lot like life in a quaint Michigan town complete with jocks, popular girls and cliques.

“There are even cheerleaders in death,” Walker observes. It’s not a coincidence that the music teacher is a guy named Kurt who “used to have this band.” The drama teacher, Heath, is crush worthy because back in his life, he starred in some superhero movie.

Principal King explains the rules — there are none. Why? You can’t die twice.

There is no homework.

No tests.

No SATS.

You’re just there to learn because the human brain isn’t fully formed until you’re 24.

By the way, you can’t get hurt physically, so race your Harley off that hillside. But falling in love is the most dangerous thing you can do …because no one knows how long you’ll stay in this realm or what’s next.

“Losing someone you love would be like dying twice,” Walker says.

* * * * * *

Walker Callaghan has just arrived at the Academy after a tragic car accident. “Is this heaven or is this high school?” she asks.

She finds out her new life is a bit of both as she falls in love with tat-covered, bad boy Daniel Reid who is about to break the only sacred rule of this place. He’s looking for a portal to return back to the living realm.

He needs just one hour to retrieve his younger brother who strangely never arrived at The Academy. Bobby is an Earth Bound Spirit, stuck at a plane crash site that took both of their lives as their rich father piloted his private jet nose-first into a cornfield on Christmas Eve.

Walker loves Daniel and risks it all to go with him.

Have they learned enough to outsmart dangerous forces while transporting a young child with them? Can their love survive the fragmented evil parts of themselves that are now hunting them down as they try to find a way back to the middle?

At the Academy, you learn the lessons of an after-lifetime.

Buy Links

Amazon│Kindle│iTunes

Book Trailer

My Review

There’s a lot I can say about this book. How unique it is in its plot. How I actually felt like I was reliving high school memories of my own, despite the fact that The Academy is a high school like none other. Also, I really loved the quirky jokes and puns the author slipped in. Even the ones about death, which I never thought would amuse me. This book actually made me nostalgic, especially in the beginning. Perhaps it was the occasional music referenced and urged me to listen right away, or it could have been the mellow, highly accomplished but deceased teachers that spent their afterlife bettering the not so future of mankind. I feel I’m writing in circles but let’s just say this book is a tragic comedy, which is maybe not the best way to put it.

Walker is a 17 year old girl no longer going on 18 and she just started a new ‘life’ in ‘Michigan’. Only she doesn’t remember moving and her mother is acting strange. Also, they have a giant house with lots of pricy tech but no means of communication. Walker is bright, sassy, and intuitive to the people around her which made her a great editor ‘going on reporter’ for her old school paper. Suffice to say, I instantly liked her. On her second day in ‘Michigan’, she meets the allusive, rude, and chiseled Daniel and later his rambunctious siblings. After the initial scope of Daniel’s-perfection from head to toe-features, her unending questions quickly motivate him to show her just what has happened to her.

For some reason the thing that stood out for me the most with Daniel was his habit to actually reach out and physically move people (mostly Walker) out of his way, which was hilarious. I also think it’s a good indicator towards his personality. I really enjoyed all of the different types of characters in this book. Daniel’s siblings are a handful and wonderful to read, especially his interactions with them.

Overall, this book was a very good read with an easy flow of the plot that captured you from very early on. Discovering the each persons’ ‘story’ and the secrets of the school were quite interesting, as well as the plot twists along the way. Walker is a brave girl that takes her death in stride and doesn’t lose her sense of curiosity and generosity to the people around her. This looks like a great beginning to a series and I look forward to reading the sequel.

About the Author

C.L. Gaber is the author of the ASCENDERS SAGA and co author of Jex Malone. A well known entertainment journalist, she lives in Nevada with her husband Ron, bonus daughter Sabrina and two unruly dogs. ASCENDERS 2 is due out in early 2016.

Author Links

Website│Goodreads│Twitter│Facebook

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Book Tour Organized by

Heart in a Box Promo

Posted on January 25, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Heart-in-a-Box-Tour

Heart in a Box by Catherine Stine
Publication Date: December 20, 2015
Publisher: Inkspell Publishing

Welcome to our stop on the Heart in a Box tour! Be sure to check out the book playlist and giveaway below! For more information, check out the blog tour schedule here!

Book Summary (Goodreads):

Each heartbeat leads Joss closer a shocking truth that will change everything.

Joss Olstad wins the fight to switch from her private school to a public high to “find her pieces” she lost when the Indian artist father she never knew died. There, Joss struggles with a slutty friend, who flirts with her new love; Indian Culture Club girls who press her on her past, as well as her stoner mother’s lies back at home. Armed only with her handmade heart boxes that hold private messages, Joss’s search for identity leads her to a scary industrial section of Queens, and a shocking family secret that changes everything.

Heart-in-a-Box-cover

HIAB promo Jan

Heart in a Box playlist

The Heart Wants What it Wants – Selena Gomez

Try – Pink

Cello Song – Nick Drake

Heartbeat Song – Kelly Clarkson

Sorry – Justin Bieber

Not Afraid – Eminem

Remedy

Feeling Good (Braiden Sunshine version) by Anthony Newley & Leslie Bricusse

About the Author:

Catherine Stine

Catherine Stine writes YA and romance. Her novels span the range from futuristic to supernatural to contemporary. Her YA sci-fi thrillers Fireseed One and Ruby’s Fire are Amazon bestsellers and indie award winners. Her YA, Dorianna won Best Horror Book in the Kindle Hub Awards. She also writes romance as Kitsy Clare. Her Art of Love series includes Model Position and Private Internship. She suspects her love of dark fantasy came from her father reading Edgar Allen Poe to her as a child, and her love of contemporary fiction comes from being a jubilant realist. Visit her at catherinestine.com and subscribe to her newsletter for news of releases, workshops and appearances.

The Giveaway:

The prize pack includes:

A $40 gift card, 2 hand-painted heart-boxes with secret treasure inside, a signed paperback of Dorianna by Catherine Stine, a signed paperback of Heart in a Box by Catherine Stine, a great YA ebook pack of novels: Tiger Lily by Wende Dikec, When Sorrows Come by Katie M John, and Time Runs Away with Her by Christine Potter.

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Silver in the Blood Review

Posted on January 24, 2016 by The Page Unbound

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Silver in the Blood (Silver in the Blood #1)

by Jessica Day George (Goodreads Author)

Book Synopsis(Goodreads):

A New York Times bestselling author brings dark secrets to life in a lush new YA perfect for fans of Libba Bray or Cassandra Clare.

Society girls from New York City circa 1890, Dacia and Lou never desired to know more about their lineage, instead preferring to gossip about the mysterious Romanian family that they barely knew. But upon turning seventeen, the girls must return to their homeland to meet their relatives, find proper husbands, and—most terrifyingly—learn the deep family secrets of The Claw, The Wing, and The Smoke. The Florescus, after all, are shape-shifters, and it is time for Dacia and Lou to fulfill the prophecy that demands their acceptance of this fate… or fight against this cruel inheritance with all their might.

With a gorgeous Romanian setting, stunning Parisian gowns, and dark brooding young men, readers will be swept up by this epic adventure of two girls in a battle for their lives.

My Review:

This book is a good example of why you shouldn’t let other people’s reviews influence what books you read. I was very excited for this book when it first came out, but I was unable to read it right away. By the time I was ready to read it, the reviews were not as good as I would have liked. So I put off reading it until earlier this week. I have a whole stack of books that I need to read, but this book was calling to me. I am very glad that I took the chance.

Dacia and Lou are cousins, their mothers being sisters from an old and powerful Romanian family. Their fathers are from two of the most prominent families in New York. Dancia and Lou are best friends, but in many ways they are opposites.

Dacia is tall, thin, and beautiful. She loves her cousin, Lou, and tries to protect her from things that might hurt or upset her. She can get very restless when things become too routine and she can maybe even be a little wild.

Lou is short, curvy, and beautiful. She is shy and always follows the rules. She loves her cousin, Dacia and will do anything to make her happy. She wishes that she were tall and thin like her cousin.

Their Aunt Kate takes them on a European Tour to give them some polish. Lou’s family comes along too, but Dacia’s family stays home, because her mother is expecting another baby. While in London, Dacia gets involved with a very dashing Lord. As punishment, Aunt Kate whisks her off to Bucharest without stopping in Paris. While Lou and her family head for Paris. The girls have a hard time being apart. They keep in touch by writing letters to each other. Some very strange things start happening for both girls. They are eventually reunited, but their whole lives are starting to change. It seems there is a family secret. One that some members of the family would kill to protect. Once the secret is revealed, their lives will never be the same.

I really loved this book. This is not your normal shape-shifter story. To me it was a very refreshing change. The author is a little slow to reveal the secret, but the suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. I read this book in one day and I never got bored. I had a hard time putting it down to take care of daily things. It does not end on a cliff hanger, but there are enough unanswered questions to warrant a continuation of the story in other books. When I got to the end of the book, I was sad for the story to be over. I wanted more. I loved the characters, especially Dacia and Lou. The story is told from both of their points of view. I loved the letters they wrote to each other and the journal entries. There are also a couple of villains in this story and they are truly evil. I love a good villain.

Jessica Day George is a great author and one of my favorites. This book is definitely worth reading. I give this book 5 stars.

Crossroads Blast Giveaway

Posted on January 24, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Crossroads by Mary Ting

Can two worlds collide in dreams?

Protecting her from the fallen was his duty.
Falling in love was never part of his plan.
Loving her was forbidden.
Being with her was all that mattered, even if it meant he would be exiled for all eternity.

Claudia Emerson’s life is about to change when her good friend, who coincidentally shares the same first and last name, dies in a tragic accident. Distraught at the loss of her friend, Claudia’s dreams become tumultuous, and through them she mysteriously travels to another world called Crossroads. There, she unexpectedly meets Michael, a nephilim–half angel, half human. Now that she’s been there, fallen and demons are after her, suspecting she must be special, and it is up to Michael and the other nephilim to protect her. Her dream becomes a nightmare as more secrets are revealed about who she really is, and the true identities of the people she loves most.

Praise for Crossroads

“Crossroads by Mary Ting has it all: danger, romance, suspense, incredible characters and an original plot that is sure to thrill. The action never stops as good and evil battle to the death. This well written and fascinating love story will keep readers entranced.”
~ReadersFavorite.com

“Love is in question. Trust is debatable. No one is safe. Between by Mary Ting is an enchanting, nail-biter that will leave you breathless from the exquisite cover to the thrilling end.”
~Gabby, Nashville Young Adult Fiction Examiner/What’s Beyond Forks

“Crossroads is an exciting debut book with a rich paranormal mythology, unique angel-lore, forbidden romance, action, suspense and plot twists. With her detailed writing and a plot that flow wells, Mary created a world I enjoyed visiting, and a story that was hard to put down.”
~Katie with Mundie Moms

“Beyond is an extraordinary story with unforgettable characters, passionately written by an author who clearly understands the true identity of love. Compelling and exciting; this is a must-read for all hardcore fans of the paranormal romance genre.”
~Angie Edwards @ Books4Tomorrow

“Reading the Crossroads Saga has always put me in a very ethereal place while turning its pages. In BEYOND, Mary Ting takes it to another level and I embrace the new darkness with open wings just like Michael would with his heart-shaped wings”
~Yara, Once Upon A Twilight

Crossroads will be FREE from on Amazon from January 21st to 25th

Author Mary Ting

Bestselling/award-winning author Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.

BookBlast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 1/31/16

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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The Sabbath: Author Interview with Arthur Nsenga and Shaunakay Francis

Posted on January 23, 2016 by The Page Unbound

TheSabbath

The Sabbath
by Arthur Nsenga and Shaunakay Francis
Publisher: Say La V Publishing (January 19, 2016)
Publication Date: January 19, 2016
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Book Summary:

Would you rather suffer for eternity, or die peacefully?

What if you had no choice?

The morning after witnessing a spectacular meteorite shower, Cory and his girlfriend Lana didn’t expect to wake up immortal.

News bulletins claim the meteorites have released a chemical compound called ATHENS which has caused mutations in the human race. The twisted outcome has left people unable to die but with an increased sensitivity to pain.

Now with the majority of food supplies contaminated, and the rich controlling what little is left, the desperate young couple are force to go on merciless food raids just to stave off the pain.

During which they accidentally discover a secret government device and find themselves caught up in a diabolical plot to control the future of humanity.

Realizing that there is more to ATHENS than what they were led to believe; Cory and Lana set out on a crusade to uncover the truth. Their journey will lead them into the darkest depths of humanity. If they can follow the trail, they may be able to find some answers.

But will the cost of knowing the truth be too much?

Purchase Links:
Amazon

Author Interview:

Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing? What inspires you to write?

Wass up! My name is Arthur Nsenga, the other writer of the Sabbath. I’m in the 25^th chapter of my life and a recent college graduate. When I got school out the way, I decided to start writing. I called up Shaunakay and the rest was history. What really inspires me to write are the movies I create in my mind while I’m daydreaming, so I figured I write them down.

Hi all! My name is Shaunakay Francis and I’m the co-author of the Sabbath, I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. Also, I love reality TV and food of course. I first fell in love with writing in grade 11. My English teacher began a poetry club and encouraged me to attend. When I did, the freeness and non-judgmental atmosphere allowed me to be myself and discover writing as an art and a hobby. I am inspired to write….

Who is your intended audience and why should they read your book?

The intended audience for The Sabbath is young adult. I believe they should read our book because it’s thrilling. It’s not the same old tale of the world’s destruction resulting in everyone dying. There are so many other aspects to the store for example, love, family, religion, friendship, politics…

How did you come up with the title of your book or series?

The Sabbath of course is Biblical and it fit perfectly with the theme of the book. Also, we was greatly inspired by the book of Revelations.

Tell us a little bit about your cover art. Who designed it? Why did you go with that particular image/artwork?

The cover art was done by a very talented artist by the name of Murray Stennton. It depicts very nicely the chaos and overwhelming life of the characters and the general idea of the story.

Who is your favorite character from your book and why?

(Arthur) Cory by far is my favorite character. He’s a bit rough around the edges, but he means well. Yes, he can be a jerk at times, but he has been through a lot. I guess I like Cory because he reminds me of myself. Not saying I’m a jerk, but hey, we all got inner demons we have to face.

(Shaunakay) Lana is my favorite character, she has a little bit of myself in her. Considering this is my first book, when I began developing the characters, I started with what I knew—and that was my friendship with Arthur Nsenga. Creating character with an amazing connection as ours was the first thing that came to mind. I also like Lana because she’s strong and tenacious. She’s a fighter, she wants to be on the front lines protecting all she cares about.

How about your least favorite character? What makes them less appealing to you?

(Arthur) That’s a good question. I would have to say Lana, just because as I was writing her thoughts and actions, I remember thinking, Man, she is so annoying.

(Shaunakay) I wouldn’t say I have a least favorite character but Cory’s character is a bit of a prick.

If you could change ONE thing about your novel, what would it be? Why?

Not a thing, but we’re still emotionally attached to it. Let’s revisit that question in a few months from now.

What other books are similar to your own? What makes them alike?

We don’t believe there is a book out there that is similar. This book is unique and original, and those who read it seems to think the same.

How can we contact you or find out more about your books?

(Arthur) I’m available on twitter @artdagreat or just shoot me an email @ saylavpub@gmail.com

(Shaunakay) Social media is the best form of contact for me. Instagram (@shayykayyy) and Twitter (@shayykayyyy) are my most used.

What can we expect from you in the future?

(Arthur) Currently working on a second novel entitled Zaire.

(Shaunakay) More writing, my first love is poetry and I intend to attend to that more.

What can readers who enjoy your book do to help make it successful?

They can read it. If they enjoy it, they can tell others about it.

Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

Don’t get discouraged. There is always someone willing to help and there is always another solution to any problems that arise. Don’t rush the process, take the time to enjoy the journey.

Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Thank you for the interview and as a token of our appreciation, we will be gifting free ebooks!

And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and tantalize us:

“I’m calling in sick tomorrow,” Lana whispered as she shivered into Cory’s car and fumbled with the heating. “There’s no way I will make it to work in the morning. I’m drunk, and it’s already four a.m.”

Cory started the car and lowered the music. “Yeah, you should have just given your shift away,” he teased.

Lana gave him a look, too tired and full of Denny’s late-night pancakes to respond. If not for him, she would have been spending this cool Saturday morning in June snuggled up in her bed; instead, she had her arms folded, staring at the side-view mirror, wondering how she’d let Cory persuade her to go to a house party on a work night.

Truth is, it took little convincing; Lana had been nursing a small crush on Cory for quite a while now. The only problem was she valued their friendship more than the prospect of romance, so she never acted on her feelings. Plus, Cory hid his emotions so well Lana did not know if her feelings would be returned. Rather than pondering their relationship for the hundredth time, she turned up the radio, losing herself in the music as Cory sped down the calm and quiet main street.

“I’m sleeping over; I’m way too tired to drive home,” Cory announced as he pulled into Lana’s apartment driveway.

“Yeah, sure,” she replied, half-asleep, although she wanted her bed to herself. She yearned to crawl half-naked into crisp clean sheets and sleep until three in the afternoon.

Lana got out of the car, dropping her purse as she did so.

“Ugghhh,” she muttered, stumbling like a dipsomaniac to pick it up, her little black dress and six-inch heels added to the difficulty.

She stood up and sighed, then glanced up at the sky, wondering if the sun was rising already. It was a little too bright outside, considering it was before dawn. She froze, unable to speak or even move.

The sky was on fire.

Amazed and confused, Lana stood there, trying to remember if any meteorite showers were scheduled to happen today, when her thoughts were interrupted by the flash of a large flaming object sailing through the air, followed by another, and another.

Soon the sky surged with huge fiery rocks crashing through the atmosphere. There were thousands of them. The entire sky was a blazing inferno. Lana sensed danger, but she was in a trance – too terrified and astonished to do anything but stare in wonder at the beauty of the dancing shades of red, orange, and blue.

There was a thunderous bang as fireballs erupted like Fourth of July fireworks, becoming more horrifying than entrancing. Another rock exploded, disintegrating into millions of pieces – some mere dust, while the rest came crashing down like fiery hailstones. A few splinters, no bigger than a handful of broken eggshells, struck Lana on her forehead almost knocking her down, but the alcohol in her system rendered her numb to the pain. She sensed a quick burst of warmth as they bounced off her and onto the ground.

A howling wind picked up, throwing burning hailstones down harder and faster.

BOOM!

Another enormous bang, followed by yet another burst of blazing stones, filled the heavens. Lana panicked as one by one, the fireballs transformed into deadly projectiles, piercing the night sky.

“Lana…Lana…Lana”

Even through the roar of the smoking skies, she could hear Cory and turned to see him running toward her, nostrils flaring and eyes bulging. Lana had never seen fear from Cory, but still, it did nothing to tear her from the theatrical display in the night sky. She looked back up to the bleeding sky, glued to the spectacle.

“We need to – to go – inside!” he stuttered, his voice loud and trembling. “These rocks will kill us!”

Unable to find her voice, Lana let Cory drag her by the arm into her apartment, not sure whether what she had just witnessed had been real or not.

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Poison Review

Posted on January 22, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Poison by Lan Chan
(Wind Dancer #1)
Publication date: September 1st 2015
Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult

Book Summary

Since the night her mother was murdered, sixteen-year-old Rory Gray has known one truth: There are no good Seeders.

In post-apocalyptic Australia, the scientists known as Seeders have built a Citadel surrounded by food-producing regions and populated with refugees from the wars and famine. To maintain their control, the Seeders poisoned the land and outlawed the saving of seeds.

It’s been six years since Rory graced the Seeders’ circus stage as the Wind Dancer and still the scars on her body haven’t healed. Even worse are the scars on her heart, left by a Seeder boy who promised to protect her.

Now the Seeders are withholding supplies from Rory’s region for perceived disobedience. Utilising the Wanderer knowledge she received from her mother, Rory must journey to the Citadel through uninhabitable terrain to plead for mercy.

However, the Citadel isn’t as Rory remembered. The chief plant geneticist is dying and rumours fly that the store of viable seed is dwindling. The Seeders are desperate to find a seed bank they believe Rory can locate, and they will stop at nothing to get it.

To defy the Seeders means death. But Rory has been close to death before–this time she’s learned the value of poison.

Recommended for fans of The Hunger Games, Divergent, strong protagonists, minority characters, circuses and nature!

Purchase Links

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

My Review

The world Aurora grows up in is a violent dystopia of greed and savagery. Embracing her own encompassing feelings of revenge, she pushes herself into a warrior bent of the destruction of the Seeders but also the continuation of her mothers legacy. Still a feeling that lays heavy in her gut and heart continues to drive her to other actions that determine her future.

Poison is made of groups called Seeders, Wanderers, Reapers, and Blood Furies (which by the way is an amazingly scary name) all at war with one another. Famine causes ‘survival to the fittest’ in a dying land, where Aurora struggles not only to survive but save the future of their world.

Every bit of this book is like reading poetry. The way Chan describes even something like walking through a forest ends up being a dance in words, must like her plot. Usually when reading about a world so different it can be hard to follow at times. However, I had no trouble at all following the intricacies of this future dystopian world that captured me so quickly. I truly feel that this book is very fresh and unique. I usually feel a bit of tension with a character when I first start to read, yet I immediately enjoyed reading Aurora, or for short Rory’s, point of view and the struggles she faces. Rory is such a brave, aspiring character, and it was very easy to like her. She faces her fears, pushing past the moments when she only wants to freeze, and is very loyal to the people she cares about.

It was very refreshing to read a story based in Australia. Having already a bit of knowledge about the creatures and atmosphere that are already deadly, it was very interesting to read Chan’s particular flare about the conditions there. Just by writing this I realize how many different elements are involved in this story, yet I never felt boggled by an overload of information. If you crave fast paced action stories then you will certainly enjoy this.

Also, I must confess, I’m a sucker for bad boys in books. Rory’s counterpart (or adversary) Aiden can certainly fit the description. Aiden is ruthless and complicated, which makes him all the more fun to read.

I would definitely recommend the book, though I’d suggest reading it further in the future because I’m already frustrated that I can’t read the sequel. Kidding! Sort of…

About the Author

Lan Chan is a writer, gardener and professional procrastinator based in Melbourne, Australia. She is still waiting for her super powers to manifest but until then she writes young adult novels featuring strong female protagonists, minority characters and has a particular interest in dystopias and urban fantasy. Lan’s debut novel POISON, the first in her WIND DANCER series is due for release in September 2015.

Author links:

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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The Keepsake Promo and Giveaway

Posted on January 21, 2016 by The Page Unbound

The Keepsake (The Empress Chronicles #2)
by Suzy Vitello
Release Date: October 1st 2015

Welcome to our stop for The Keepsake Book Tour! This book definitely has caught my eye! Be sure to check out more about the book and enter the giveaway below!

Book Summary (Goodreads):

In this second Empress Chronicles book, Liz and Sisi continue their intertwined journey through time. On the heels of discovering a magical locket in the empress diary, Liz comes to understand its very special power: the wearer must speak the truth. Not only that, but it turns out that there are three lockets, each with their own magic and power.

Meanwhile, Sisi realizes that she’s communicating with a girl who lives 150 years in the future. A girl who knows what awaits her if she marries the emperor: lack of personal freedom and a legacy that will refer to her as the “reluctant empress.”

With the world’s future hanging in the balance, the two heroines must work together to thwart Lola, whose ambition to rule the Habsburg Empire will rewrite history, and lead to a terrifying new version of reality.

Keepsake.Cover

Purchase Links:
Amazon | Website

Book 1 in the series:

the empress chronicles

Check out these awesome promo stickers. The green represents Liz and the pink represents Sisi!

lizsticker sisisticker

girlpower JenBlurb

About the Author:

suzy vitello

Suzy Vitello’s award-winning short fiction has appeared in Mississippi Review, Plazm,Tarpaulin Sky, various anthologies and other literary journals. She has been a prize winner in The Atlantic Monthly Student Fiction Contest, and has been a recipient of an Oregon Literary Arts grant.

She holds an MFA from Antioch, Los Angeles, and is a long-time coordinator and participant of an infamous writer’s workshop in Portland, whose members include Chuck Palahniuk, Lidia Yuknavitch, Chelsea Cain, Monica Drake and others.

Her young adult novels include THE MOMENT BEFORE, THE EMPRESS CHRONICLES, and THE KEEPSAKE.

For more info, visit suzyvitello.com

Author Links:
Website│Goodreads│Twitter│Facebook

GIVEAWAY:

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Pennies from Burger Heaven: Interview and Giveaway

Posted on January 20, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Pennies from Burger Heaven

by Marcy McKay

Genre: Literary Suspense

Publisher: SkipJack Publishing

Date of Publication: December 28, 2015

# of pages: 340

Eleven-year-old Copper Daniels is homeless and alone. She spends her nights sleeping beneath the cemetery’s Warrior Angel statue for protection, and her days battling the mean streets of Remington, Texas, hell-bent on discovering what happened the night her Mama disappeared. While Copper and her rag-tag group of friends find danger at every corner, two horrors are certain: her Mama’s really missing and someone’s after Copper, too.

In the tradition of The Lovely Bones and Room, Pennies from Burger Heaven tells a dark story through the eyes of a child. With wit and wisdom, Copper Daniels will steal your heart, then break it in two.

Awards for Pennies from Burger Heaven:

*Winner – Writers’ League of Texas: Best Mainstream Novel

*Winner – Frontiers in Writing: Best Mainstream Novel

*Winner – Frontiers in Writing: Best of Show

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Praise for Pennies from Burger Heaven

“Against the gritty backdrop of an inner-city ghetto rises the unforgettable voice of eleven-year-old Copper ‘Penny’ Daniels, offering poignant and heartbreaking insights into the horrors and trials of homeless life on the streets, finding heaven where you least expect it, and help in those you never thought to ask.”

– A.G. Howard, New York Times Bestselling Author of the Splintered Series

“At once disturbing and exhilarating, heartbreaking and heartwarming, Pennies is the story of an undying love between a mother and daughter. It grabs you by the heartstrings from the start and won’t let you go, even after you’ve read the last word.”

– Ken Oder, author of The Closing and Old Wounds to the Heart

“Debut novelist McKay infuses Pennies from Burger Heaven with wit, charm and moxie, so much so that the achingly beautifulness of Copper Daniels’ life sneaks up on you. All of this wrapped around a mystery that is fast-paced and rife with tension, with a satisfying series of twists. Can’t wait for the next Burger Heaven novel.”

– Pamela Fagan Hutchins, author of the Katie & Annalise mystery series

What inspired you to writePennies from Burger Heaven?

I was driving out to Llano Cemetery here in my hometown of Amarillo, Texas. As I drove through the front gates, a young girl’s voice whispered in my ear. That’s the day I met Copper Daniels and my life hasn’t been the same since.

What’s the hardest thing about writing novels?

You know, writing them.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

Hang out with my family. My husband and I have two high-schoolers, so the clock is ticking before they leave for college. We’re enjoying every second with them. Also: reading (of course!), watching movies, yoga, long walks through my neighborhood, meeting friends for coffee.

Can you share anything about your current work-in-progress?

Burger Heaven #2 (Real title TBA) – It’s six months later for young Copper Daniels, and life isn’t going well. A new mystery calls her back to Eternal Peace Cemetery. Heaven and hell collide as she fights the battle of her life.

Do you prefer books or movies?

I love both, but at the end of the day, I’d rather read a book. I want to let my imagination see the stories in my own way.

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Marcy McKay knew she wanted to write stories the moment she read about Oompa Loompas in the fourth grade. She’s an award-winning short-story author and copywriter, as well as a freelance journalist. Her work has appeared in Writer’s Digest, Accent West, Roots & Wings, The Write Practice, Write to Done, and Positive Writer and Jane Friedman. Marcy lives in Texas with her husband and two teens, who all still like her…most of the time. McKay is a member of the Writers’ League of Texas and the Texas High Plains Writers.

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3 WINNERS WILL WIN THEIR CHOICE OF AN eBOOK OR PRINT COPY OF PENNIES FROM BURGER HEAVEN.

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Apocalypsis: Kahayatle Book Blitz

Posted on January 19, 2016 by The Page Unbound

Kahayatle
Elle Casey
(Apocalypsis #1)
Publication date: June 22nd 2012
Genres: Horror, Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction, Young Adult

After a wedding filled with werewolves, fay, and vampires, Vicky is lookia

NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR, ELLE CASEY, brings readers Book 1 of 4 in the YA Dystopian APOCALYPSIS Series, suitable for older teens and adults.

KAHAYATLE. My name’s Bryn Mathis. I’m seventeen years old, and I live in a neighborhood outside of Orlando, Florida. I live alone because my dad died almost a year ago, along with all the other adults in the world. I’m almost out of food and the gangs of kids that roam around my town are getting more vicious by the day. It’s time for me to leave and find another place to live … a place where I can find food and shelter … a place where they won’t be able to find me. Alone, it might have been possible, but now I’ve got company. I’m worried that I don’t have what it takes to get from here to my final destination, and I have no idea what might be waiting for me when I get there.

Content Warning: Mild violence and some foul language. Meant for older Young Adult readers (age 15+). This book is in the Dark Science Fiction / Horror / Post-Apocalyptic genres, featuring teen characters only.

APOCALYPSIS SERIES READING ORDER
Kahayatle (Apocalypsis Book 1) **Special introductory ebook price**
Warpaint (Apocalypsis Book 2)
Exodus (Apocalypsis Book 3)
Haven (Apocalypsis Book 4)

This series is dedicated to the amazing, wonderful Native Americans who populate our nation, continuing their traditions and reminding the rest of us that sometimes, progress isn’t always the best thing for our people. I invite you to learn more about the Miccosukee tribe, their history, culture, and lifestyle by visiting this website: http://www.miccosukee.com/indian-village/

Goodreads / Amazon / iBooks / GooglePlay / Kobo

Currently available for FREE!

—

EXCERPT:

Prologue

I STUFFED THE SLEEPING BAG down into my backpack with angry, punching motions, sick and tired of having to be here and having to do the same thing over and over again. I hated camping, I hated being organized, and more than anything, I hated what this exercise stood for.
“Don’t do it like that. I told you – you have to conserve the room as best you can. You have to travel as efficiently as possible. Take it out and start over.”

“I don’t see what difference it makes.”

“Trust me, it’s going to be a really big deal to you in the not so distant future.” His voice sounded hollow.

“Says who?” I was being ornery. I knew the answer to the question already.

“Says me, Bryn. And the news. Look around, would you?” He sounded like he was pleading now. “Stop defaulting back to the rebellious young teen act, and get serious. We don’t have enough time to play those games anymore.”

“They’re not games, Dad. I am a teenager. I don’t care what the news jerks and the government say.” I threw my backpack down on the ground. “And it’s not rebellious to not want to play friggin’ survivor in the backyard every day.”

My dad looked at me with a sad expression and sighed, reaching over to pull me into a tight hug. He dropped his nose to my head and inhaled deeply.

My face was pressed up against his shirt, and I could smell his sweat mixed with the sweet scent of his aftershave. My dad always said he was the last of a dying breed, using that stuff. He couldn’t have been more right.

“Maybe it’s not going to happen here … to us.” I said it just to hear the words, but I knew it was only wishful thinking.

I could tell he was getting choked up again when he started talking, his voice now hoarse.

“I wish, more than anything else in this world, that you didn’t have to be standing here with me in this backyard playing survivor.” His whole body started to shake with silent sobs. “Oh, God, Bryn. If I could do anything to change this, anything at all, I would. I swear to God I would. But it’s happening. No one can stop it.”

I put my arms around his waist, letting go of my earlier stubborn anger, now choking back my own tears. “I know, Dad. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it.”

“Yes, you did,” he said, sniffing hard and clearing his throat, shifting to hold me at arm’s length. He was staring at me while he smiled through his tears, giving me that look. The one that always made me confess.

“Okay, so maybe I did mean it. But I’ll shut up about it for a little while.”

“Not for too long, though. You wouldn’t be my daughter if you weren’t complaining about something.”

I tried to slap him playfully but he moved too fast for me. My dad is light on his feet, an expert level-one practitioner of krav maga – a certified badass. He’d only recently taken up camping.

“Pick it up,” he ordered, now back in control of his emotions. “Do it again. Only this time, get the air out of that bag first, condense it down …”

I cut him off. “I know, I know … ‘down into the smallest footprint possible.’ Geez, Dad, I’m not an idiot.”

I shook the sleeping bag out and started rolling it up quickly, using the moves I’d been practicing for four months straight to squeeze it down into a lump the size of a small loaf of bread. I folded the whole thing in half, pushed it to the bottom of the backpack, and then let it unfold itself one time, before putting the other items in on top of it: unbreakable water bottle, half-liter of bleach, square of plastic, cup, hunting knife, and various other tools my father was quite certain I would need … once all the adults in the world had died off, leaving us kids alone to fend for ourselves.

Author Bio:

Elle Casey is a prolific, NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestselling American writer who lives in Southern France with her husband, three kids, and several furry friends. She writes in several genres and publishes an average of one full-length novel per month.

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Abandoned Cover Reveal

Posted on January 18, 2016 by The Page Unbound

SR-Cover-Reveal-BannerNEW

Welcome to the cover reveal for

Abandoned by Elisa Dane

presented by Swoon Romance!

Time to get excited for this upcoming
YA Contemporary Romance!

ABANDONED (1)

My name is Tierra Owens, and I like to kiss. A lot. It numbs the hollow ache in my chest and—for a few minutes—makes me forget how truly alone I am. My mother is an alcoholic. She hates me and insists I’m the reason she’s not married to my father, whom I have never met. My best friend, Kaylee, is the only person who knows the real me. Everyone else sees what I want them to: a happy, confident, popular girl who has the world at her feet.

I am a fraud.

Relationships are forbidden. I avoid them at all costs. Sex? Emotions? Those things make a person vulnerable, and vulnerability always leads to heartbreak. When my childhood crush, Mattie shows up at school my world tumbles off its axis. The shell I surround myself with feels more like a pathetic crutch than a protective barrier, and I find myself wanting things. Daydreaming about what it would be like to have a boyfriend, a relationship—love.

The sad fact is: I’ll never have any of those things. I am unworthy—trash. Which is why my mom abandoned me.

Abandoned by Elisa Dane
Publication Date: February 15, 2016
Publisher: Swoon Romance

Available for Pre-order: Amazon

About-the-Author2

Elisa Dane

Elisa Dane loves books, chocolate, reality television, her family, and All Star Cheerleading. Not necessarily in that order! She writes contemporary YA romance with cheerleaders. Yep. She writes what she knows, and it’s her hope that her stories will not only take you on a romantic journey that will warm your heart, but that you’ll find a new respect for the sport of All Star Cheerleading you may not have had before. She’s represented by Brittany Booker of the Booker/Albert Agency, and has published a NA paranormal series under her real name, Lisa Sanchez.