A Touch of the Supernatural in The Cypress Trap by J C Gatlin Review

Posted on October 19, 2015 by fundinmental

Do you believe in luck? Are you superstitious? Do you have a lucky rabbit’s foot?

I couldn’t resist sharing a few laughs with my fellow Supernatural lovers. For those of you not familiar with the TV show, Sam and Dean are the hunters you want to have protecting you from the monsters of the supernatural..

GUEST POST

I am so happy to have JC Gatlin dropping in for a quick chat. Welcome, JC.

Eight Life Lessons: Ideas for themes and character arcs

Several people have asked, “What is the theme of The Cypress Trap?” Several reviews have pointed out that the story is about overcoming sorrow, as all the main characters are holding onto devastating events in their past. Another critic described the theme as “not appreciating your loved ones until it’s too late.” Either way, it made me think: Does an author go into writing a story with a theme in mind? Or does the story’s theme just evolve somewhere within the undercurrent of the plot and character interactions?

I read an interesting article in Psychology Today magazine titled “Life Lessons: 5 Truths People Learn Too Late.” (October 2012) Several of these lessons inspired plot ideas for future stories, especially within the context of the article — learning the lesson too late. But the article also really got me thinking about themes in general.

When it comes to the book’s theme, especially if the author has a theme in mind when writing the book, the old adage of “show, don’t tell” becomes even more critical. Showing allows the reader to sieve the theme from the plot and analyze the author’s underlying feelings or influences. Telling turns the story into “A Very Special Episode of Blossom.”

These are seven Life Lessons I’ve come across that naturally lend themselves to themes and character arcs.

You can’t fix the ones you love, so focus on fixing yourself
It’s more harmful to overprotect than to under-protect
Sometimes you must put your wants aside and just do what’s best for the one you love
The strength of your friendships is as critical for your health as the lifestyle choices you make
Lust diminishes, but love remains
Truly growing up means forgiving your parents for their mistakes and accepting responsibility for your own actions
Doing what’s right isn’t always easy or popular
Sometimes you must find the strength to say “Yes” when saying “No” would be easier, and “No” when “Yes” is safer.

I didn’t start writing The Cypress Trap with a theme in mind. However, if I had to pick one, I think it’s about letting go. All the main characters are haunted by their pasts, and that’s like acid eating them up inside. Sorrow and regret is a trap that’s difficult to escape. In the end, I think Rayanne, the protagonist, let’s go of her past and her life and moves on.

It is a pleasure having you here, JC. Thanks for the wonderful post.

Add me to Goodreads now.

MY REVIEW

The Cypress Trap by J C Gatlin was a wild ride through the cypress swamps of Florida. I love the location. The pacing was superb. J C had me racing through the forest, bobbing and weaving, chased by evil of the human kind. Just when I thought I could take a breath, J C Gatlin had me up and running again.

I knew from the beginning Owen was going to do something stupid, but I didn’t see it coming back to bite him like it did. Watch out for Karma, curses, whatever, because it can be a bitch.

Owen and Rayanne’s vacation turned into a nightmare. He’s not very happy and he hides his anger behind the dark sunglasses he wears. She tiptoes around him, trying not to set him off. The tragedy that they dance around is destroying them.

Why is Darryl, Owen’s best friend, there?

If you are a Supernatural TV show fan, you know about the rabbit’s foot.

Beatings, running, truck crashing, abduction, escape but nowhere to go, hurt can’t run. Rayanne doesn’t quit, doesn’t give up. She is determined to save her husband.

Terror mounts, as each time Rayanne hides, she is found again, through her own fault, making noise and giving herself away, on the run again. That was my only complaint. But it did keep the suspense and fear for her survival racing through the pages, just like she was racing through the cypress forest.

Rayanne is running through the swamp, dodging coyotes, gators, snakes, the wicked teens, Luger and, could we say, bad luck?

The suspense built during Raynne’s heart pounding run for her life, like the Energizer bunny, kept going and going. Every time I thought I could take a breath, she was discovered and on the run again.

I gave The Cypress Trap by J C Gatlin a four rating, because I was frustrated at her inability to get away and her lack of procuring a weapon, when she had more than one opportunity. But, I tell myself, it had to be that way to come up with the great ending and I do love the ending. I wasn’t sure what would happen and kudos to J C Gaitlin for pulling that off.

Maybe I was just having an off day. If you are a suspense lover like me, this is one you will want to read.

I received The Cypress Trap by J C Gatlin in return for an honest and unbiased review.

4 Stars

ABOUT THE CYPRESS TRAP BY J C GATLIN

When Rayanne commandeers her husband’s weekend fishing trip, she knows it’ll take work to adjust Owen’s attitude. She has no choice. Since the tragedy, they lost so much. They need to reconnect.

Without her knowledge, Owen texts his best buddy, Daryl, to join the getaway. The three of them aren’t alone in the backwoods of Georgia, though. Owen took something that didn’t belong to him. Something that changed their lives. And now the owner wants it back. By any means — including a posse led by a killer dog.

At first, Rayanne is clueless about the item and its value. One thing becomes crystal clear: If it’s not returned, they might not make it home alive.

Goodreads | Amazon | YouTube Book Trailer

ABOUT J C GATLIN

JC Gatlin lives in Tampa, Florida. In addition to regular fishing trips, he wrote a monthly column for New Tampa Style Magazine, then began penning several mystery/suspense stories. He also maintains a blog about the art of spinning a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat mystery yarn.

Coming from a large family with five brothers, JC grew up in Grapevine — a small Texas town just outside of Dallas. He moved to Tampa in 1999, and most of his stories feature the rich landscapes of Texas and Florida as backdrop.

Website | Amazon Page | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon Gift Card (INT) Ends Oct. 28th

Prizing is provided by CBB Book Promotions, hosts are not responsible for prizing.

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.

If you have a problem commenting, look for the twitter, facebook…buttons.

Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Mother Earth is Pissed! – Gemini Rising by Jessica O’Gorek – Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on August 6, 2014 by fundinmental

The hypnotizing cover of Gemini Rising: Ethereal Fury by Jessica O’Gorek has my complete attention.

I love the way it is set up, including the font, which gives me an eerie feeling.

I saw – everyone has spare humans – and busted out laughing. How could I say no to reviewing Gemini Rising after that?

Gemini Rising: Ethereal Fury

by Jessica O’Gorek

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY REVIEW

I have seen Gemini Rising making the rounds on the blogosphere and have wanted to read it ever since I saw the cover. I feel concerned about our exploitation of earth’s resources and the ME attitude that seems pervasive in our society today, so the synopsis jumped out and said read me. This fantasy romance is all I hoped for.

Oliver Weldon worked for Spot Petroleum. His rush to tap into one of the largest African oil fields in 1956 was coming back to bite him in the ass. The 2:00am call warned him, but he had his millions and no regrets. Lost lives and the environment devastated was just part of business to him, so he went back to sleep. Mother Nature is pissed and she is not going to take it any more and he wears a bullseye.

Gemini are the servants of the earth and since his death, Oliver is one of them. His name is now Onyx, for his black soul. They were an army of lost souls “living” in their own version of purgatory.

“Possess and destroy.” The means did not matter.

Their mission was part of Mother’s plan to fix the problem the human race had created. They spread plagues, famines, fires……Would she allow any human to remain? Was her goal to exterminate the human race?

The Gemini’s strategy was to enter the churches first, then slowly spread throughout the town.

Darius, seemed to be the only one who was aware of what was happening, but that was not so.

Slate idolizes Darius, but soon becomes suspicious. What part will he play as the humans fight back?

Violette holds a fascination for Slate and Onxy. She is sixteen, naïve and I feel something special is in store for her.

Onyx no longer knows the way of humans. He no longer understands their feelings of attraction and desire, their need to protect. He is a supernatural being that can take on any shape or form, has the ability to become invisible and reverse time, able to heal all wounds and move at super speeds. He is extremely powerful and can obliterate the human species.

What about Slate? Who would win the battle for his body – Slate or Onyx? Was he in love with Violette too?

Was Onyx’s attraction to her because he wanted to defile and corrupt a virgin child? His biggest surprise was to find he had no defense again the wisp of a girl.

I am leery of the Bishop. Does he have an ulterior motive?

Gemini rising holds a warning for all of us, but doesn’t preach. It does emphasize the anger of mother earth and her need to eradicate the pests who are destroying her. Think about it! Is the Earth rising up in our current time? Is it warning us through plague, fires, landslides, polluted waters…….to be more careful. After all, our resources are finite.

Gemini Rising reminded me of Host by Stephanie Meyer, when talking about Onyx’s possession of others, but he went from body to body intending ill will, murder and death. I feel there is much more to come.

I love Jessica’s bio and can see how she came up with idea for this wonderful fantasy.

I received the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.

3 Stars – Would Recommend To Others.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB

Angry at the human race and its methodical destruction of her resources, Mother Earth recruits souls who have just left their bodies to serve Her, and turns them against humanity. Gemini, a clan of paranormal beings, picked from these possessed humans, emerges. A powerful, rising force proceeds to carry out Mother Nature’s plan to systematically destroy towns, cities, states… and eventually, the world. Amidst the chaos, a forbidden relationship between a human girl, Violette, and Onyx, a lead parGemini, begins. They will both find themselves in the middle of a revolutionary war that will either save, or destroy our world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EXCERPT

Chapter 4

Everyone has spare humans

“Give me my brother back and I’ll go to Saint Augustine’s,” a small voice, that of a child, caught his attention. He could barely make out the shadow of a little girl to his right, huddled behind a larger man with bulging eyes and greasy hair. With more gusto in her voice, she stepped out from behind the man and stood up taller, her jaw set in challenge.

“I said, let my brother Collin go, and I’ll get you into Saint Augustine’s.”

Something about the guts it took to speak to him so defiantly and offer herself for sacrifice intrigued him, but he wasn’t sure if she was even a member of the church.

“You belong to the church?” Onyx watched her head fall and her eyes blur with tears.

“I did…once.” She faltered in her brave facade, something in her broke, the frown on her face turned into a dark grimace.

“So none of you are current members?” A few murmurs of the word “no” and he was satisfied. Their testimonies seemed heartfelt and sincere. He did not feel like entering all of their minds one by one, his ire began to fade and the temperature immediately fell a few degrees. “All right, enough,” he said in defeat. The atmosphere then changed to one of relief and confusion.

“But you didn’t answer our question. We answered yours, but you didn’t answer ours!” A balding man almost cried as he slumped against the wall and rubbed his wrists where his shackles had scoured them raw.

“Why?” A woman beside him chimed in as Onyx turned to leave.

“Give me my brother! I know you have him!” The shy little girl was now screaming accusations at him, her fists pumping the air, but he paid her no mind.

It was always easier to leave out the details. Tork always said there was nothing worse than a room full of hysterical captives. Bad enough to be human, but add in the adrenaline and the fear of the unknown, they became that much more insufferable. He ignored their pleas and timid curses, pulling the door shut with a thud, cutting off their curious stares. Someone yelled out they were hungry and he hesitated a little, trying to remember what hunger was. Ah yes, the need for food. The youngest of his clan, Sapphire, usually fed them three meals a day: canned food, all stolen from the local country store. He had no need for food and didn’t keep any around. Sapphire and some others would simply slip into the stores at night and rob them blind in small quantities.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I was born in Chesapeake, Virginia on April 19th, 1979. I was raised within the American Indian religion and was taught great respect for the earth and all its living beings. Powwows, sweat lodges, vision quests, you name it, I’ve done it. I was the weird kid who would confront kids on the playground in elementary school when they squished a bug. I would very sincerely tell them what they were doing was morally wrong and then I would pray for the bug to come back as a butterfly in its next life.

I grew up admiring my father, Barry Weinstock, as an author. He took me around the country to different places so he could research and write his Wilderness Survival books. One of his greatest works, “The Path of Power,” was written with a great medicine man, Sunbear.

When I was twelve I started hand writing novels. My first one was two thousand pages. My dad always encouraged me and would rave about my writing. He gave me the confidence I needed to keep writing and follow my dream. My daughter, who is twelve, is currently working on her first novel. I hope to continue the legacy.

Blog / Goodreads / Barnes & Noble / Amazon / Twitter / Facebook

Click here to get your Amazon copy of Gemini Rising by Jessica O’Gorek.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for a $50 Amazon/Barnes and Noble Gift Card

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. Follow the tour by clicking on the image below:

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar at Home and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Is there Redemption for the Baddest of All – Mel Goes To Hell by Demelza Carlton

Posted on July 30, 2014 by fundinmental

Mel Goes To Hell is Book III in the Mel Goes To Hell Series by Demelza Carlton.

I have read the first two books and am eager to find out what happens next.

The covers are amazing and leave us to wonder who wins the fight between the angels and demons and heaven and hell.

MY REVIEW

Spoiler Alert: This is Book III in the Mel Goes To Hell Series.

The Mel Goes To Hell Series has been a hilarious romp through Hell with angels and demons vying for the souls of others. The witty dialogue and snarky repartee between Mel and Luce kept me laughing and hoping. Hoping that good will prevail and that Mel and Luce will be able to come to some kind of an agreement (?).

It is a story of love, sacrifice and redemption.

Yep. I thought that would happen and wondered how it would work out. But, I can’t tell you. You will have to find out for yourself and it is well worth the read.

Mel is bold, confident and calling in all her favors.

Love is Mel’s greatest strength.

Can it redeem Luce, the Lord of Hell? Or would she be the one to fall?

I am attracted to the bad boy. Can a bad boy change his ways? What do you think?

“Who would walk through Hell naked?

“I do it all the time. Well, usually with horns, the tail, the red skin…you know, the whole works . People seem to expect it on occasion…”

Mel Goes To Hell is a bit different from the first two books in the series. It is more serious in tone and storyline as the battle between good and evil escalates, but she does not forget the humor that, I believe, helps all friendships to grow and develop into long lasting relationships.

The series has such a unique storyline that it keeps me captivated and wanting more. The twists and turns, along with the surprises Demelza comes up with will, I hope, continue to entertain me. Is there more to come, Demelza?

I received the ebook for Mel Goes To Hell by Demelza Carlton in return for an honest, unbiased review.

5 Stars – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Mini Review

Welcome to Hell by Demelza Carlton is a hilarious introduction to the Hell Corporation. Good for some giggles and laughs as Demelza pokes fun at Hell. Meet Lucifer, the CEO and quite the hunk. He’s already got an evil glint in his eye when he literally runs into Mel as she is applying for a job. How would you prepare for a job at HELL Corporation? (Health Environments Life and Lands Corporation) Raphael at the Helpful Angels Agency tells her Mel has the job. She would be at Hells door promptly at nine. Demelza describes Mel’s commute on the train after the interview. I couldn’t help but chuckle as she talks about the briefcase, but I burst out belly laughing when she talked about farting. Does an Angel fart?

The story is FREE , so grab your copy now and happy reading.

Pick it up for a laugh or two and find out if See You in Hell is for you. My review for See You in Hell is coming on Monday, June 30, 2014.

Hilarious. Uproariously funny. It is writing like this that makes See You In Hell a home run to me.

MY 5 STAR REVIEW

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish. She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below. Sensationalist spin? No – Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all. Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world. The Ocean’s Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by her suspense thriller Nightmares trilogy.

She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn’t leave her alone.

Interested in visiting her web page or reading about her writing process?

GO HERE!

Author Links

Click on the cover below to get you Amazon copy of a Demelza Carlton story.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Two DARK Reviews in honor of the release of Dark Secrets by Madeline Pryce

Posted on July 21, 2014 by fundinmental

I have read the first book in the Dark Series by Madeline Pryce, Dark Carvings and loved it, so when I was given the opportunity to read, review and participate in the tour for Dark Secrets, I jumped on it. Madeline’s writing makes these novels outstanding paranormal romances that will linger long after the reading is done.

Dark Secrets (Dark #2)

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

ISBN: 9781419991370

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance

Theme: Vampire/Demon (a few shape shifters thrown in there…)

Length: 85,000 words

MY REVIEW

Spoiler alert: Dark Secrets, Book II in the Dark Series, Ella’s story continues.

Dark Secrets is a fast paced, action packed paranormal romance novel.

Ella had worked for The Shadow Agency as a vampire hunter. She had killed without thought.

Vampires and demons – bad. Humans – good.

Since her death by Lizbeth and her full change from human to vampire, her black and white world has gone gray. Her ability to tell the difference between them was growing dimmer. Now I was the enemy and on trial for my life.

I am the Vampire Queen, since I had killed Lizbeth, the Vampire Queen before me. I inherited all she owned. I now rule vampires and werewolves. The prophecy foretold that the vampire queen and demon son would wreak havoc and destruction and so far Micah and I had fulfilled it. We knew what they were really talking about is the child we were supposed to produce.

Ella and Micah had husband and wife difficulties, just like us mortals. She questioned – does he still want me, does he still love me? Vampires and demons are insecure too.

Madeline’s articulate descriptions of the characters allow me to see them in my mind, as if they are standing before me. Her ability to describe the surroundings and action run through my mind as if they are a scene in a movie.

I was pissed when Madeline made Ella a wuss. How can you take a badass hunter/killer and turn her into an insecure, doubting crybaby?

“…your emotions are all over the place, like you swallowed crazy pills or some shit. You aren’t my Ella. My Ella fights, kicks, punches and screams. She doesn’t cry….”

Pretty much covers my question. I guess if I went from a human, with my job hunting and killing vampires, to becoming a vampire queen with superpowers, I might be afraid and confused. Afraid of what I might do. Afraid I couldn’t control myself and my powers. Now she is forced to make a decision. She must act like a queen or step aside.

When Julian made his move – OMG I was blown away. It can’t be. So not what I anticipated. I am in a hurry to find out Micah’s reaction.

Madeline’s writing has me engrossed from page one. The action begins and never ends. My emotions run from happy and laughing to devastated and stunned. Just when I think I know what is coming, she throws a curve ball that makes me shake my head and say, “Well done, Madeline. You got me there.” I love when an author can add that extra something that leaves a lasting impression on me.

I received a Dark Secrets by Madeline Pryce ebook in return for an honest and unbiased review.

Holy fucking shit. Karma – the bitch – had cashed in my meal ticket and tried to send me to hell.

“If this is about leaving the toilet seat up, I’ll stop bitching about it.” “The toilet seat? What? Jesus fucking Christ . I just threw a fireball at you and you’re talking about the crapper?”

Madeline manages to weave some humor in with the dark and violent.

5 Stars – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

BLURB

The worst moment of Micah’s life was when Ella nearly died in his arms. Her miraculous recovery should have been the start of their future. Unfortunately, a new demonic heritage, the Shadow Agency’s corruption and Julian, the vampire who turned Ella, are testing their relationship. Despite hotter-than-ever sex and a variety of new places and positions to explore, Micah begins to wonder if a relationship based on lust can survive for more than a few scorching-hot months.

Ella has forgiven, but not forgotten, the fact that Micah once plunged a dagger through her heart. Everything with Micah is passion, excitement and an uncontrollable desire to explore his body in a variety of very satisfying ways. But as buried secrets, ongoing lies and murderous deceptions pile up, Ella is reminded that she and Micah’s relationship was based on a curse. In order to forge a future together, Ella and Micah will have to face down their personal demons—and prove that love and trust are more than just words.

A Romantica® paranormal erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave

Buy Links

Amazon US / Amazon Ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU / BN (Nookie!) / Kobo

Series Reading Order

Dark Cravings (#1 Ella/Micah – 85k)

Dark Innocence (#1.5 Hannah – 45k)

Dark Secrets (#2 Ella/Micah – 85k)

Dark Vengeance (#2.5 Castro – 45k) – release date coming soon!

Dark Promises (#3 Ella/Micah) – Spring 2015

~~~~~~

DARK CRAVINGS, Book I by Madeline Price

My 5 Star Review

~~~~~~

DARK INNOCENCE, Book 1.5 by Madeline Pryce

MY REVIEW

Cover design: Willo

Cover photography: Andrei Vishnyakov/fotolia.com, Artem Efimov/shutterstock.com

Book 1.5 of the Dark Series. Erotic, recommended for adults only.

While reading book I, I became very fond of Hannah. She is such a good person. I am so happy that Madeline felt the same way I did. Hannah’s story needed to be told. I knew it would be full of life – good, bad, tragic and blissful.

Madeline Pryce’s writing, I am sure, will be heating up the pages if not burning the book, or should I say melting my Kindle. I might need to have a fire extinguisher nearby. LOL

Hi Hannah. I am pleased to meet you. I have been waiting, ever so patiently, to read your story.

Hannah is a goodie two shoes and has an eidetic memory. Since being kidnapped and tortured by the vampire queen, Lizbeth, she is full of self disgust. She plays leap frog, jumping from guy to guy, popping pills and drinking booze, anything to escape the memories.

Dante, a shapeshifting six hundred pound lion, had rescued her six weeks ago. He was an Adonis and fifteen years older than her. He is tall and powerful. When he walks into a room, he gives off such intense vibes they demand your attention. The age difference kept them apart, but she could not deny her attraction. He is the only one who could make her feel safe. For now, she will have to settle for being best friends.

Dante is a man I can love. A man who will hold your hair out of the way while puking, after fucking someone else, well, what more can I say?

Hannah had been rescued, but there was still someone left, someone who meant her great harm, Mr. Restricted, her stalker. Who is he? Maybe what is he would be more appropriate.

OMG The car. Who’s that knocking on the window? TERROR Hannah tried to make herself small, curling tightly into the seat. Her eyes dart back and forth, frantically looking around, desperate for help. She flashes back to the pain and torture that haunts her since the kidnapping. She is shaking, calling out to Ella, her sister, for help. Where Hannah is sunshine and flowers, Ella is darkness and death.

“I didn’t mean to hit you so hard.”
“I should’ve been able to block you. I didn’t expect you to get all she-woman on my ass and kick my butt.”

“I broke it?”

The dialogue is quick and witty. At times I felt a chuckle or outright laugh escape as I read along.

“Ella, please tell me that we don’t look that pathetic,” Micah said in self disgust.

“…you’ve already broken the man’s nose – the date can only go uphill from there.”

When Dante said, “This is the worst first date I’ve every had,” I laughed right along with him.

I knew Hannah’s story would be a good one. I love badass Ella, but I knew Hannah had a life changing story. I wanted to see her grow and develop into the strong woman I knew she would become. Madeline Pryce’s writing can be down right gross and disgusting, but it keeps me on my toes. It went from killing and savagery to light and whimsical with witty dialogue and funny moments that kept me engrossed. The novel is smoking hot, but there is so much more going on than just sex. Madeline’s superb writing and storytelling ability always leave me Craving more.

“Oh man, oh man,” I say as I rub my hands together with a wicked grin on my face. Now it’s time to find out what Ella is up to.

I received a Dark Innocence by Madline Pryce ebook in return for an honest and unbiased review.

5 Stars – Would Buy It For Them (lol)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT MADELINE PRYCE

Madeline Pryce wrote her first novel when she was ten, penned with neon-pink ink in a loose-leaf binder. Captivated by romantic literature, yet intrigued by the paranormal, she continues to develop her own voice, writing the kinds of stories that inspired her as a teen.

Author Links

Blog / Facebook Page / Facebook (I welcome friends!) / Facebook Fan Group / Twitter

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Click on the cover below to pick up your Amazon copy now.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar at and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Purr-fect Mating by Sheryl Winters – Release Day Blitz Giveaway

Posted on July 21, 2014 by fundinmental

Happy Book Birthday to Purr-fect Mating by Sheryl Winters!

Purr-fect Mating

Lil Genie Series Novella

Genre: Paranormal / Romance

By Sheryl Winters

Release Date: July 21, 2014

Publisher: Roane Publishing

Keywords: Paranormal, Romance, Shifters

Fhina and Wulfar have a little problem.

On their wedding night, at the stroke of midnight, Wulfar changes into his shifted wolf form and cannot shift back. Not even to communicate with the woman he loves.

Fhina, upon waking the day after their mating, no longer recognizes her mate. Pregnant and confused, she’s convinced herself her mate has run away and left her to live alone. With his dog.

Can the cursed pair find a counter charm before Fhina gives birth? Will Wulfar be able to curb his inclination to run?

Or will their mutual curses break up their love affair before it’s really even started.

Purchase Links:

Roane Publishing /Amazon /Amazon UK / Bookstrand / Smashwords / B & N

Excerpt:

“It’s just…Wulfy’s missing, and I thought—” The words stick in my throat. What if she won’t help? How will I ever find him?

“He’s what?” In the background, I can hear loud thumps and shouting. “I’m getting the duct tape out. I’ll use it this time, I swear it!”

“You will not.” I bite back a giggle.

“I might. You have no idea what I’m putting up with. They spent all week at Mom’s, and she hyped them up on pixie sticks and soda. I’ve exhausted a whole day peeling them off the ceiling. I’m just hoping when it wears off they’ll sleep for a week.”

“Good luck with that.”

“Did you say Wulfy is missing? How long’s he been gone? He’s probably off for a long run. Wolves do that, you know? Remember how Mom used to take off for days, leaving us with Aunt Ginger? Always claiming she was out hunting, when she was really in Vegas gambling?”

“But, I haven’t seen him in days.” I shove the notepad back and forth across the table.

“Did you, uhm…snap at him?”

“No!”

“Well, fess up. What happened?”

“Nothing. I was on the phone with Mom and I uh…” I try to remember the conversation. “I told her about the doggy bowl I got for Wulfy. I even gave him the fancy new dog food I got for him. He scratched at the door and I let him out.”

“You got him a dog bowl?” Bella chokes.

“Well, yes. I thought it was a nice thing to do.”

Honestly, wolves. They never make sense, even in human form. Of course, I gave Wulfy a dog bowl, how else do you show a dog you love them? One can’t go around petting them 24/7.

~~~oOo~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~

Click on the cover to get your Amazon copy of Purr-fect Mating by Sheryl Winter.

~~~~~~~~~~~

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos

Book Blitz and Tour-wide Giveaway

Ecopy of Purr-fect Mating and a $10 Amazon gift card.

Ends 8/15/2014

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code. No purchase necessary, but you must be 18 or older to enter. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter, and announced on the widget. Winner well be notified by emailed and have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Roane Publishing’s marketing department.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Tag Team Giveaway Event – Stunning New Cover for Apocalyptic Novel – Wormwood by D H Nevins

Posted on July 16, 2014 by fundinmental

$tag you're it photo: Tag! You\'re It! AnyOccasion-TagYoureIt-May2007.jpg$

Welcome to my Tag Team Events!

Laura and I are the Tag Team Bloggers.

You can find Laura at fuonlyknew.

We Tag Team an author and publish our posts at the same time.

Whether it’s for a cover reveal, giveaway, review, interview, or something more, the author will be tagged by us and you will be alerted to go to Laura’s blog or mine to see additional content. It’s really fun to see how differently we view the same book and you get an extra chance to win with our giveaways!

~~~~~

D H Nevins is here today to tell you how excited she is to share the new cover for Wormwood and how it came about.

Welcome, D. It is wonderful to have you here today. Take it away.

The Alternatives

It was exceedingly difficult to select my favourite cover. Every mock-up Derek created was incredible in its own right, and it would be a shame not to share them. So in all their glory, here are the other options he came up with.

The third one—the one with the wing obscuring the girl’s face—is so amazing, I’d very much like to use it as the cover for my sequel, Angel of Shadow.

What do you think?

I think it would be awesome D. I can hardly wait to get my hands on it. ^_^

A New Cover for Wormwood

First of all, before I say anything else, let me introduce Wormwood’s new cover. Oh, and before I do that, I should forewarn you that I’m a tad biased about this…

The New

This beauty took my breath away the moment I saw it. As an author, I couldn’t ask for a better representation of my work. And I’m kind of picky—so that says a lot! The image projects a mood that reflects the feel of my story so perfectly, I knew the cover artist understood Wormwood on multiple levels. But even if we’re just talking aesthetics, well, although I am most definitely biased, I think this is one fantastic-looking cover!

The Old

I originally had a different cover for Wormwood. It was a simple black and white etching by Gustave Doré, depicting a fallen angel reaching towards the heavens. The sheer turmoil apparent through the angel’s expression and pose not only fascinated me, but seemed a perfect depiction of the conflict raging through Tiamat, a half-angel in Wormwood. However, the etching–although classic–was hardly a trendy cover. The story itself was very well-received, but I found that people had trouble getting past the antiquated-looking cover in order to take a chance on reading what was within. My love for the cover, it seemed, was a lonely one!

The Cool How

About a month ago, I was contacted by cover artist extraordinaire, Derek Murphy. He had read Wormwood and subsequently offered to make up a new cover for the book—for free. Surprised, flattered and curious about the vision he had for Wormwood, I heartily agreed.

Then, as you know, the resulting cover blew my expectations out of the water! Its impact was immediate.

Why it Works

The image depicts the book genre clearly. The colour contrast is striking, which catches the eye instantly. Plus, it’s incredibly professional.

It also fits the story.

On a literal note, the protagonist is a strong female, adept with a crossbow, yet still out of her element. However, she would never admit it. I could see this in her stance. Yet the cover holds so much more than a simple literal representation of Wormwood. Derek recreated the feel of the book perfectly. The mixture of light and darkness remind me of a review Wormwood once received which, in part, said, “The lines will be blurred between good and evil, love and hate, truth and lies, and hero and antagonist.” The hazy fusion of sunlight and shadow reflect this beautifully. The unsettled, foreboding skies mirror the mood of this dark, post-apocalyptic story, and the falling feathers are a nice touch. They hint at the half-angels in the story without hitting potential readers over the head with their existence. The fact the feathers are broken and falling is also perfect, but I hesitate to say why… after all, I don’t want to spoil the most exciting parts of the book!

My Thanks

Naturally, I wouldn’t be sharing this with you if it wasn’t for Derek Murphy. His outstanding covers and unprecedented talent can be seen on his website, CreativIndie Covers. Have a look at http://bookcovers.creativindie.com/

And of course, I would like to extend a huge thanks to Sherry Fundin for her generosity in allowing me to ramble on about my new cover here on her blog. Thank you so very much, Sherry!

Thank you D. That is a fascinating story of what teamwork and the generosity of the indie and blogging world can accomplish.

Now for a little video entertainment to round off your eye candy fix.

After this fantastic trailer, which is so descriptive of the world devastation in the book, please continue reading for my review.

My 5 Star Review of Wormwood by D H Nevins

I won this book through fuonlyknew’s blog. I would like to thank Laura and D. H.Nevins for the giveaway.

Right off, the cover grabbed me. I didn’t know what to think of the title, but as you read the book, you will find out what it means.

The writing is excellent. Wormwood starts out fast and holds your attention throughout. The description of the devastation made me able to visualize the world around them. I can’t find the words to describe it myself, but D. H. did a great job of it.

The actions of Tiamat will make you question things yourself. Is God a kind, gentle person, or is he vengeful and vindictive? And what about angels?

As I was reading I kept thinking of Supernatural. I watch the reruns on TV most mornings. This book reminded a lot of how God and the Angels treated humans on the show. If you’ve watched it, you’ll know exactly what I mean. God has his own agenda and the angels will follow it, us humans are along for the ride.

The relationship between Kali and Tiamat, and Tiamat and God, was creative and complex. For me, it raises more questions than answers. I am sure most everyone has asked “Why Me?” more than once.

The biodegradable soap made me chuckle along with Kali. Tiamet was thoughtful, like when he supplied her with toiletries and clothes, but he stood away from her emotionally and physically.

The things that happened to her, could make the strongest person give in to the misery, horror, devastation, desolation, abuse………..

This is an amazing apocalytic/dystopian novel that will take you into another world. The details and descriptions enabled me to visualize the surroundings and characters as they struggle to stay alive long enough to find their destiny. Very well done and I can hardly wait to read the sequel, Angel of Shadow. Happy writing D!

SYNOPSIS

Against a devastated landscape, a legion of one hundred fierce half-angels is hell bent on purging the Earth of all humans. But one of them, the tormented Tiamat, struggles against his mission, and when he rescues a beautiful woman named Kali, he finds the attraction as troubling as it is dangerous. Can Kali trust the one creature who could be responsible for her ultimate demise?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

D.H. Nevins was born in Toronto and currently lives in a quiet area of Ontario, surrounded by forests and lakes. By day, she is a personable, friendly school teacher. By night, she silently chuckles as she writes about destroying the world. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys hiking, camping, flying around on her motorcycle or dabbling in live theatre.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

Click on the cover below to get your Amazon copy of Wormwood by D H Nevins.

GIVEAWAY

In celebration of the new cover, D H Nevins is giving away 5 ebooks of Wormwood to 5 lucky commenters. Please leave your email address and answer the question:

Which cover would you choose and why?

This is a Tag Team Event sponsored by fundinmental and fuonlyknew. For another chance to win, go HERE.

Giveaway ends July 30, 2014.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Monday Mini #11 – Dark Mountain by C B Pratt

Posted on July 14, 2014 by fundinmental

.

MY REVIEW

Beautiful cover and interesting storyline. I thought this book would be a great read. It is about a supernatural assassin that will handle the dispatch of a dragonet, a minotaur, or whatever creature is giving you problems. He is a jack of all trades. I was very disappointed. I struggled to get through it. I would find myself reading along and realize I was just reading the words. I had no idea what I had read and would go back over it again. I could not get involved in the story or the characters. It was like a school reading assignment in government. I picked it up and put it down for weeks. I was bored and the story created no curiosity or emotion. This is book 3 and I have not read the first two. Did this make a difference? I read 64%, but could not find a reason to continue. There are so many books and so little time, so I finally gave up. This is very unusual for me and I am sorry that I could not find it worth my while to finish.

I received an ebook in return for an honest and unbiased review.

DNF – Would Not Recommend

You can get your Amazon copy of Dark Mountain by C B Pratt, by clicking on the cover.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Those annoying Ghosts – Tortured Souls by Kimber Leigh Wheaton Giveaway

Posted on July 12, 2014 by fundinmental

We’re spreading the word about the fabulous ebook price of Tortured Souls by Amazon Bestselling Author, Kimber Leigh Wheaton. Only $0.99 through July 20th!!!

Tortured Souls
(The Orion Circle #1)
Kimber Leigh Wheaton
YA Paranormal Romance
June 29th 2014 by Sea Dragon Press
Kindle Edition, 227 pages

SYNOPSIS

Sometimes Rest in Peace isn’t an option

Kacie Ramsey sees ghosts—and it’s ruining her life. Her mother left, her father blames her, and no matter how hard she tries, she can’t keep the ghosts away. Now a new power has emerged. Nightly visions of grisly murders and a relentless predator draw her to the brink of insanity.

When the phantom appears at a party, Kacie’s longtime crush, Logan, saves her. He invites her to join the Orion Circle, a group of supernatural hunters with chapters in schools all over the country. Through the Circle, Kacie learns to embrace her spiritual powers, and for the first time in her life she feels in control rather than a victim.

But the Foxblood Demon will not give up so easily. A demented serial killer in life who trapped the souls of the thirteen children he murdered, imprisoning them within the walls of his mansion. Now in death, he plots his return while drawing power from the pure souls of the children. He recognizes something in Kacie he’s never seen before—a medium powerful enough to provide a vessel for his tainted soul.

Kacie can’t ignore the tortured souls of the children crying out to her every night. With Logan at her side, she will fight the Foxblood Demon. But can they banish this powerful phantom, or will Kacie lose not only her body, but her eternal soul to the monster.

Purchase from: Amazon

Excerpt from Chapter One ~ Something Wicked

Deafening music shakes the walls, vibrates the floor, and pounds a rhythmic beat in my skull. Gyrating bodies turn every bit of space into a dance floor. Sweat breaks out on my forehead, and my heart races. Strobe lights flash, teens dance with wild abandon. Shrieking laughter bubbles around me.

“Gotta take a leak!” my dance partner shouts over the music.

He races off, weaving through the thick wall of bodies. Mike or Mick or something—I didn’t catch the name he yelled when he asked me to dance. Doesn’t matter, he wasn’t my type at all. I mean, the guy guzzled beer while dancing. After grabbing a diet soda from a nearby cooler, I’m about to search for my friends when a dark feeling washes over me. My feet refuse to move, and I stand rooted in place.

The once loud music is now hollow in my ears. I gasp for breath, choking on the lack of air around me. Tiny hairs on the nape of my neck rise to attention. Something wicked is behind me. I know I’m the only one here who feels a difference in air pressure. An oppressive weight presses against my skin, making me feel as though I’m underwater. I blink a few times, watching the people around me continue their manic dancing—oblivious to the bogeyman that just entered the room.

Afraid to turn around, I stand my ground, sipping my soda. I pretend I’m unaware of the shuffling noises behind me, sounds I shouldn’t be able to hear over the blaring music. Swaying my hips, I hum along with the music, trying to ignore the ominous presence crushing me.

Whatever it is, I can’t let it know I sense it. Evil pours off it in waves, blanketing the entire room. I close my eyes, willing the creature to go away, return to whatever mausoleum or grave it calls home. Malevolent spirits feed on fear. I must control mine at all costs.

When I open my eyes, I’m gazing into the face of an angel. Not literally, but he may as well be in my book. Logan glances behind me, and I know he sees the spirit. He doesn’t gasp or scream or faint dead away. His golden eyes narrow as though he’s in a staring contest with the specter.

“You’re not welcome here,” Logan says to the presence behind me. He meets my gaze again. “You know it’s there.”

It’s not a question but a statement. I nod, a weak bob of my head, unsure whether this intimate moment with my dream guy is a good thing or not. Meeting over a nasty phantom is not my idea of romantic. And yet I can’t stop staring at the way his blue t-shirt hugs his broad shoulders and chest—how his light brown hair curls around his earlobes. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. For six weeks I’ve wanted out of the friendship box with Logan, but I was hoping for girlfriend, not crazy girl.

“Kassandra,” a voice rasps behind me.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimber Leigh Wheaton is a YA/NA author with a soft spot for sweet romance. She is married to her soul mate, has a teenage son, and shares her home with three dogs, four cats, and lots of dragons. No, she doesn’t live on a farm, she just loves animals. Kimber Leigh is addicted to romance, videogames, superheroes, villains, and chocolate—not necessarily in that order. (If she has to choose, she’ll take a chocolate covered superhero!) She currently lives in San Antonio, TX but has been somewhat a rolling stone in life, having resided in several different cities and states.

Website; * Blog; * Goodreads * Facebook; * One Upon a YA Book FB * Twitter; * Pinterest

Click on the cover to get your Amazon copy of Tortured Souls by Kimber Leigh Wheaton.

GIVEAWAY

taiwan flag smiley animated gif Pictures, Images and Photos – $25 Amazon GC
– 5 ebook copies of Tortured Souls
– Open internationally
– Ends July 17th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Can She Save Them All – Cover Reveal for The Shadow Aspect by Melanie Karsak

Posted on July 10, 2014 by fundinmental

The Shadow Aspect by Melanie Karsak

Publication date: Summer/Fall 2014.

Genres: Dark Fantasy, Young Adult, Zombies

Cover designed by designed by Princess of Shadows

.CC

Synopsis

When Layla took the final step through the labyrinth, she knew she was saving the ones she loved. She couldn’t have been more wrong.

The unwitting victims of a grudge seething for eons, Layla and the other survivors now find themselves in a war for our world. With vampires lurking and shapeshifters plotting vengeance, Layla must learn who to trust if humanity has any hope of survival: the carnie girl? The quiet doctor? The tarot reader? The stranger with alluring gold eyes? Or the man she loves? And then there are the voices. What does it forewarn if the dead can speak?

When the world burns, mankind’s shadow side rises. Do we deserve to survive?

AUTHOR BIO

Melanie Karsak grew up in rural northwestern Pennsylvania and earned a Master’s degree in English from Gannon University. A steampunk connoisseur, white elephant collector, and zombie whisperer, the author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children. She is an Instructor of English at Eastern Florida State College.

Author links: Facebook / Blog

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Read my 5 Star Review for The Harvesting, Book I.

GIVEAWAY

The author is hosting a giveaway for The Harvesting, Book 1, signed, to celebrate the reveal.

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY HERE

~~~~~~~~~~~~

To see all my Reviews, go HERE.

To see all my Giveaways, go HERE.

If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?

Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FREE – Spellls Gone Wrong? – Should have looked into Spell Check by Julie Wright

Posted on July 4, 2014 by fundinmental

Spell Check by Julie Wright looks like such a fun read, I had to share it with you guys.

Can never have too many books, so grab your now by clicking on the banner below.

Spell Check by Julie Wright

A skeleton is rattling its way out of the closet marked “FAMILY SECRET! KEEP OUT!”

Allyson Peterson believes that being hanged by the Salem High Witches is the absolute worst thing that can happen. But when her powers, wrested from the trolls of ancient Sweden, manifest themselves, she realizes that a prank hanging by vindictive cheerleaders is the least of her worries.

Ally accidentally sends her parents to the jungle to fight anacondas, turns her brother into a mute, and curses the entire cheerleading team with an illness that has no cure, proving that her spells need a little checking. Her Swedish grandmother shows up to help her through the worst part of all—surviving the Troll Trials and saving the guy of her dreams from a vengeance that has festered through-out generations.

The power is in her, if she can just get the magic right.

Grab your copy on Amazon

Author Julie Wright

Julie Wright (1972-still breathing) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She’s lived in LA, Boston, and the literal middle of nowhere (don’t ask). She wrote her first book when she was fifteen. She’s written sixteen novels–nine of which are traditionally published. Julie won the Whitney award for best romance in 2010 with her novel Cross My Heart. She is agented by Sara Crowe at Harvey Klinger Inc.

She has one husband, three kids, two salamanders, one dog, and a varying amount of fish (depending on attrition).

She loves writing, reading, traveling, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner.

She used to speak fluent Swedish, but now speaks only well enough to cuss out her children in public.

She hates mayonnaise.

Website

Click on the cover below to get your copy of Spellcheck by Julie Wright