Book Details:
The Fall Changes (Honey Cove , #1) by Marie McGrath Publication date: August 11th 2020 Genres: Romance, Young Adult Synopsis: Change where you live. Change your parents being married. And maybe, change who you are. At 16 years old, Riley Mills has had more change than she ever wanted. A new high school would be daunting for most teens, but between getting attention from the most popular girl and being paired with a boy for her class project, she is navigating many situations she never could have imagined. With homecoming fast approaching and rumors about her swirling, Riley must confront her true nature. Is she a popular girl at heart? Could someone actually like her? With no clear answers, Riley may just find some answers from the most unexpected sources. Goodreads | Purchase: Amazon
AUTHOR BIO:
Marie McGrath lives in a small rural town in Maryland. She hopes to inspire others with her stories. Her favorite genres to read are YA Romance and Contemporary Fiction. She loves the color turquoise, tigers, and listening to music. Author links:Facebook ~ Website ~Instagram ~ Twitter 
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Heart Sister by Michael F. Stewart Publication date: September 15th 2020 Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult Synopsis: After his twin sister, Minnie, dies in an accident, Emmitt’s world goes sideways. He’s lost his best friend and it feels like the family is falling apart without her. But Minnie was an organ donor and Emmitt soon receives an anonymous thank you letter from one of the transplant recipients. Inspiration strikes, and he decides to try and put his sister back together, in spirit. He’s going to track down each organ recipient and film them to show his parents the results of Minnie’s selfless act and help them move on. But when each recipient falls short of his expectations and the star of his film, the girl who received his sister’s heart, refuses to meet him, Emmitt has to turn to extreme measures to find her. What he doesn’t know is that his “heart sister” is hiding an agonizing secret, one that could push Emmitt to the breaking point. Goodreads ~ Purchase: Amazon ~ B&N 
REVIEW by VICKIE:
Heart Sister - Michael F. Stewart This is a well-written story. There is a lot to learn from this tragedy with Minnie. It was a little difficult for me to read some of this story because I could relate too closely to many of the situations in it. The characters are all well-developed an I felt all of their emotions well. Emmitt is an amazing character. He tried hard to make things better for everyone and in the process of all of it he learned a lot. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. The cover and title of the book are a good fit for the story. I give this story a literary rating of 5/5 
AUTHOR BIO:
Michael F. Stewart is an award-winning author of many books for young people in various genres, including Ray Vs. the Meaning of Life, which earned a Kirkus Star and won the Publishers Weekly’s Booklife Grand Prize. and Heart Sister (Summer/Fall 2020, Orca Books). Michael lives in Ottawa. Author links: Website ~ Goodreads ~Facebook ~Twitter 
Book Details:
I Am Here Now by Barbara Bottner Published by: Macmillan | Publication date: August 4th 2020 Genres: Coming of Age, Young Adult Synopsis: Set in the 1960s, Barbara Bottner’s I Am Here Now is a beautiful novel in verse about one artist’s coming of age. It’s a heartbreaking, powerful and inspiring depiction of what it’s like to shatter your life—and piece it all back together. You can’t trust Life to give you decent parents, or beautiful eyes, a fine French accent or an outstanding flair for fashion. No, Life does what it wants. It’s sneaky as a thief. Maisie’s first day of High school should be exciting, but all she wants is to escape. Her world is lonely and chaotic, with an abusive mother and a father who’s rarely there to help. So when Maisie, who finds refuge in her art, meets the spirited Rachel and her mother, a painter, she catches a glimpse of a very different world—one full of life, creativity, and love—and latches on. But as she discovers her strengths through Rachel’s family, Maisie, increasingly desperate, finds herself risking new friendships, and the very future she’s searching for. Add to Goodreads ~ Purchase: Amazon ~ B&N ~ iBooks ~ Kobo 
AUTHOR BIO:
Barbara Bottner has written about 50 books for children of all ages. In May, her first YA novel in free verse, I Am Here Now is coming out from Macmillan (Imprint) She's written a NY Times Bestseller, as well as staffed prime time sit-com, sold screenplays, published essays and short stories in both national and literary magazines and reviewed children's books for both the NY and LA Sunday Book Review. Many of her works have been multiply translated and animated, and adapted for short plays. When she was an animator, she won "Best Film For TV" from the Annecy International Animation Festival. When very young, she briefly appeared on stage and in Europe with La Mama Plexus and in television movies. She teaches writing for children privately but won The Distinguished University Teaching Award from The New School For Social Research. Her papers are collected in the Arne Nixon Center for Children's Literature at Fresno State. Former students include: Lane Smith, Robin Preiss Glaser, Peggy Rathmann, Bruce Degen, Barney Saltsburg and Antoinette Portis. She feels blessed to have a passion that seems to stick with her no matter how the larger world goes out of control. Author links: Instagram ~ Goodreads ~ Website ~ 
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Why Can't Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza by Andy V. Roamer Book Blitz & Giveaway! {Ends 8/13/20}8/6/2020 
Book Details:
Why Can’t Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza? (The Pizza Chronicles #2) by Andy V. Roamer Publication date: June 1st 2020 Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult Synopsis: RV, having successfully completed his freshman year at the demanding Boston Latin School, is hoping for a great summer. He’s now fifteen years old and looking forward to sharing many languid summer days with his friend Bobby, who’s told him he has gay feelings too. But life and family and duties for a son of immigrant parents makes it difficult to steal time away with Bobby. Bobby, too, has pressures. He spends part of the summer away at football camp, and his father pushes him to work a summer job at a friend’s accounting firm. Bobby takes the job grudgingly, wanting to spend any extra time practicing the necessary skills to make Latin’s varsity football team. On top of everything, RV’s best friend Carole goes away for the summer, jumping at an opportunity to spend it with her father in Paris. Luckily, there is always Mr. Aniso, RV’s Latin teacher, to talk to whenever RV is lonely. He’s also there for RV when he inadvertently spills one of Bobby’s secrets, and Bobby is so angry RV is afraid he is ready to cut off the friendship. Add to Goodreads ~ | Purchase: Amazon ~ B&N ~ Kobo 
AUTHOR BIO:
Andy V. Roamer grew up in the Boston area and moved to New York City after college. He worked in book publishing for many years, starting out in the children's and YA books division and then wearing many other hats. WHY CAN'T LIFE BE LIKE PIZZA? is the first novel in THE PIZZA CHRONICLES. The books follow the exploits of RV, the teenage son of immigrants from Lithuania in Eastern Europe, as RV tries to negotiate the four years of his demanding high school, his budding sexuality, and new relationships. To relax, Andy loves to ride his bike, read, watch foreign and independent movies, and travel. Author links: Website ~Instagram
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Calla (Pixieland Diaries #2) by Christina Bauer Publication date: July 28th 2020 Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult Synopsis: Book 2 of the Pixieland Diaries Big news in Pixieland! The Blue Fairy is sending our fave pixie, Calla, and her crush, Dare, on a mini-quest. Unfortunately it’s an adventure that requires a lot of togetherness. We’re talking tons of touching, people. Blue believes that since Calla and Dare are just friends, this situation shouldn’t be awkward. It’s totally awkward. ***A 30,000+ word diary written by Calla*** “I absolutely love Christina Bauer’s style, full of action, intense scenes, and characters that will test one’s imaginations to the max!” – Tome Tender Book Blog PIXIELAND DIARIES 1. Pixieland Diaries 2. Calla 3. Dare Goodreads~ Purchase: Amazon ~ B&N ~ iBooks ~Kobo ~ Google Play
REVIEW by Vickie:
Pixieland: Calla - Christina Bauer
Ms. Bauer has such an incredible imagination. I can't imagine thinking up so many mythical beings, let alone all their magic. It takes you to another realm of fantasy that is exciting and mysterious. Such a fun story to read. The cover of the book and the title are beautiful and are a perfect match for the story. The characters are very well-developed. It is easy to feel their emotions. Calla and Dare have a great romance. This is a great story for younger readers as well as adults who enjoy a great adventure. I give this story a literary rating of 5/5
ABOUT the AUTHOR:
Christina Bauer knows how to tell stories about kick-ass women. In her best selling Angelbound series, the heroine is a part-demon girl who loves to fight in Purgatory’s Arena and falls in love with a part-angel prince. This young adult best seller has driven more than 500,000 ebook downloads and 9,000 reviews on Goodreads and retailers. The first three books in the series are now available as audiobooks on Audible and iTunes.Bauer has also told the story of the Women’s March on Washington by leading PR efforts for the Massachusetts Chapter. Her pre-event press release—the only one sent out on a major wire service—resulted in more than 19,000 global impressions and redistribution by over 350 different media entities including the Associated Press.
Christina graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School with BA’s in English along with Television, Radio, and Film Production. She lives in Newton, MA with her husband, son, and semi-insane golden retriever, Ruby. Stalk Christina On Social Media – She Loves It! Blog: ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ LinkedIn ~ Web site
Giveaway:
Tour-wide giveaway (INTL)
SERIES DETAILS: Series Title: The 8th Island Trilogy by Alexis Marie Chute Category: Young Adult Fiction (13 to 17 yrs) (368 to 448 pages) | Tour dates: Jul 7 to Aug 10, 2020 Genre: fantasy, adventure, coming of age, ya, adult | Content Rating: PG: Battle scenes and death depicted. Publisher: SparkPress. | Release dates: Jun 2018; Oct 2019; Apr 2020 Series Description: The 8th Island Trilogy includes Above the Star, Below the Moon, and Inside the Sun. Over the three books, we follow the adventures of a quirky family, the Wellsleys. The main characters are frumpy senior citizen Archie, his daughter-in-law, Tessa, and his ill fourteen-year-old granddaughter Ella. Archie, searching for his missing son, accidentally transports his family—and a cruise ship full of people—to a magical planet. There, they uncover the truth: all worlds are dying. Yet hope is not lost. A way to restore all that will soon be destroyed is revealed, along with the realization that Ella will play a role no one could have imagined—especially not her. On the mysterious island of Jarr-Wya, many races of creatures battle for dominion and magic lurks around every corner. When the world falls dark, that is when bravery must shine the brightest, and the Wellsleys will reveal the strength they never knew they possessed—as well as the power of love to save the day. 
Book Details:
Book Title: Inside the Sun by Alexis Marie Chute Category: Young Adult Fiction (13 to 17 yrs), 384 pages Genre: fantasy, adventure, coming of age, ya, adult Publisher: SparkPress. | Release dates: April 2020 Format available for review: e-book (mobi for kindle, epub), PDF Tour dates: Jul 7 to Aug 10, 2020 Content Rating: PG: Battle scenes and death depicted. Book Description: All worlds are dying, and it’s up to one broken and dysfunctional family from Earth―the Wellsleys―to save the day. Cancer-ridden Ella celebrates her fifteenth birthday beneath an enchanted mountain, but it is what lies even farther below―the mysterious Star in the sea―that demands she grow up quickly. While Ella grapples with the sacrifice she must make and the lies she is forced to tell, her mother, Tessa, is hell-bent on protecting her. Through bizarre encounters, love-sick Tessa realizes that she is not the lonely orphan she believes. Her husband, Arden, and father-in-law, Archie, are not the only ones with magical bloodlines. This revelation changes everything. As Archie chooses to embody his unexpected ancestry, he learns that leading the charge in the ultimate battle against evil won’t be as easy as he thought. He’ll need his family―and the strange allies he has gained―by his side to give Ella enough time to set things right. Can they defeat the unstoppable Millia sands―and another unexpected foe―before everything they hold dear is destroyed? Or will their adventure tear them apart for good? The finale to The 8th Island Trilogy will hold you spellbound until the final page, and long after. Buy the Book: Amazon ~ Amazon.ca ~B&N ~ Bookshop ~ Target Book Depository ~ Google Play ~ Add to Goodreads
REVIEW by LAWonder10:
This final book of the 8th Island Trilogy brings the story all together in one bittersweet, intense, action-filled conclusion. The dilemmas facing the Wellsleys, the "Star", the humans, the Awakins, the Bkack Flyers, the Bangols, the Carakwa, Finnah,the Milliahthe Sprites, the Steffanus and all the other characters come to an explosive end! There was a new character added but her part was quite insignificant. There was ongoing romances, plenty of action and suspense, but it was mostly repetitious. The Scenes felt real and although the story was quite predictable, there was an unexpected twist. I did discover a couple of contradictions. I offer a Three Stars rating for this book. *This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES!
The Day my Novel—Above the Star—Hit the Bestseller List By Alexis Marie Chute
I’ve always dreamed of becoming a bestselling author. Fortunately, I grew up with a wonderful mother as a role model. My mom is not a writer, but she demonstrated to me the power of hard work, intelligence, and strategic thinking. I watched her scale the ranks of the business world with only a high school education to her name. She was tireless, tactical, and passionate. We didn’t always get along and her job did take her away from home, which was hard for me as a kid, but I feel that I had an education in life simply by being her daughter. For that I am eternally grateful. I have always known that becoming a bestselling author is no accident. It doesn’t happen to most of us by luck or fluke. I began seriously writing in my parents’ basement as a teen. I took extra curricular writing courses while still in high school. I minored in English literature and creative writing in my undergrad at university. After having a few children and penning my memoir—Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss—I went back to school, graduating with my Masters of Fine Art in Creative Writing. All that time, I was publishing articles in print and online magazines, journals, and blogs. I wrote short stories, poetry, and kept numerous journals with ideas. I found inspiration everywhere. Then I began to take my fictional work to the next level. Above the Star is book one in The 8th Island Trilogy, but the novel was not an instant bestseller. I was a little-known author-illustrator, even in my home city, but I never let that stop me. I kept writing the series, which was followed by the novels Below the Moon and Inside the Sun. I decided I wanted to reach a wider audience, so I gave away Above the Star for free. Over 19,000 people downloaded it. This is not my bestseller moment, but it sure felt amazing. People were interested in reading my story. Just a few months ago, spring 2020, Above the Star reached the top of Amazon’s bestseller lists. The day was extraordinary for many reasons. We were in lock down because of the pandemic, COVID-19. My three children were doing their schoolwork on the couch beside me. I was sharing Above the Star with all my heart, posting on social media, blogging about it, writing to my e-news subscribers. I wanted to do something helpful for everyone stuck at home during the troubling times around the world. I reduced the e-book price of my novel to 99 cents. “Go on an adventure without leaving the house” I said—and they did. According to Amazon, Above the Star was: USA: #3 in Teen & Young Adult Fantasy Romance #8 in Teen & Young Adult Paranormal Romance #8 in Teen & Young Adult Survival Stories eBooks CANADA: #1 in Paranormal Romance for Young Adults #3 in Folk Tales & Myths Sagas & Epics for Young Adults #3 in Survival Stories for Young Adults The feeling was surreal. It still is surreal, but now I know it’s possible. I remember smiling so broadly that my cheeks hurt. My heartbeat thrummed in my throat. I called my husband and my mom. I happy danced with my kids, though I doubt they fully understood what we were celebrating. It was a truly joyful few days at the top. My books, in chronological order, include: Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss The 8th Island Trilogy - Above the Star - Below the Moon - Inside the Sun 
Meet the Author:
Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning author, artist, photographer, art curator, filmmaker, and public speaker. She has received over 40 noteworthy distinctions for her visual and literary work. Her aw ard-winning fantasy series The 8th Island Trilogy includes, Above the Star, Below the Moon, and Inside the Sun. The series has been described as “A WRINKLE IN TIME meets THE PRINCESS BRIDE” by The Perpetual You magazine, and “Fast and bizarre… never a dull moment” by Forward Reviews. The 8th Island Trilogy “weaves STAR WARS-like characters with a WONDER-like message to form an enrapturing read for blooklovers of all ages” – US Review of Books. Chute’s bestselling memoir, Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss, was a top Kirkus title of 2017 and received a plethora of other literary distinctions. The memoir was accompanied by the feature documentary of the same name, which has screened internationally for the last three years. Chute received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Design from the University of Alberta, Canada, and studied at Media Design school in Auckland, New Zealand. She graduated valedictorian with her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, USA. Chute is a highly regarded public sp eaker. She has presented on art, writing, bereavement, and the healing capacities of creativity around the world. Contact the Author/Artist for bookings info@alexismariechute.com When not in her art/photo studio or at her computer, Chute loves to spend quality time with her family, read fiction and non-fiction, watch reality TV, paddleboard, and canoe. She is not a winter person but lives in frosty Edmonton, Alberta, Canada with her husband and their three living children. Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ Pinterest ~ YouTube ~ LinkedIn 
Giveaway Details:
Autographed copy of the entire 8th Island Trilogy (USA only) (ends August 17) Enter by using the Rafflecopter Below!
Here is the tour schedule.
The 8th Island Trilogy (cont.) by Alexis Marie Chute Book Series Tour & Giveaway! {Ends 8/17/20 }7/15/2020  View Trailer for an insight to the 8th Island Trilogy!  Book Details: Below the Moon by Alexis Marie Chute Category: Young Adult Fiction (13 to 17 yrs), 448 pages Genre: fantasy, adventure, coming of age, ya, adult Publisher: SparkPress. Release dates: Oct 2019 Tour dates: Jul 7 to Aug 10, 2020 Content Rating: PG: Battle scenes and death depicted. Book Description: Ella Wellsley is not your typical teenager. Cancer left her mute, but not powerless. Trapped in a parallel dimension, Ella rallies her strength to join her family―her mother, Tessa, her grandpa Archie, and her magical boyfriend―in locating the cure to her illness. This cure is entangled in the fate of all worlds, and threatened by the presence of an evil Star anchored in the sea. The Star has thrown life everywhere into chaos―and it is Ella who holds the key to unlocking its mystery. Caught in a web of betrayal, mistaken identities, secrets, and love triangles, Ella, Tessa, and Archie must overcome their troubled pasts to ensure a future for all worlds. On this journey―armed with unearthly abilities and unexpected allies―each member of the Wellsley family will learn the power of love in the face of their greatest fears. Buy the Book: Amazon ~ Amazon.ca ~ B&N ~ Chapters Indigo ~ Target ~ Book Depository ~ Google Play Add to Goodreads REVIEW by LAWonder10: This second book in 'The 8th Island Trilogy' continues with more action, turmoil, and introduces even more characters! Will Ella's advancing cancer end her life before a cure can be found? Will Ella and Luggie drift apart or is there a way their unconventional relationship turn into more? Tessa continues to be torn between her husband and her new attraction. What will be the final decision? Ardenal has painfully released her from her vows. Will she grasp this escape? All these questions, the feuding of the various cultures continue. Will they all be destroyed or will some type of agreement be made? There is many more incredible "twists" in 'Below the Moon'. The answers will be found, mysteries solved within these next final books of the Trilogy. I felt there was too many repetitive type of situations, yet it still held the interest of readers. The lead in to the third book was not as strong as the ending of the first book. It almost felt quitting the saga would be feasible. I am looking forward to the final book. I am anticipating a stronger plot... At least i hope so. I offer a Three Star rating for this second book of the series. *This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review. OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES:
ABOUT the AUTHOR:  Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning author, artist, photographer, art curator, filmmaker, and public speaker. She has received over 40 noteworthy distinctions for her visual and literary work. Her award-winning fantasy series The 8th Island Trilogy includes, Above the Star, Below the Moon, and Inside the Sun. The series has been described as “A WRINKLE IN TIME meets THE PRINCESS BRIDE” by The Perpetual You magazine, and “Fast and bizarre… never a dull moment” by Forward Reviews. The 8th Island Trilogy “weaves STAR WARS-like characters with a WONDER-like message to form an enrapturing read for book lovers of all ages” – US Review of Books. Chute’s bestselling memoir, Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss, was a top Kirkus title of 2017 and received a plethora of other literary distinctions. The memoir was accompanied by the feature documentary of the same name, which has screened internationally for the last three years. Chute received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Design from the University of Alberta, Canada, and studied at Media Design school in Auckland, New Zealand. She graduated valedictorian with her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, USA. Chute is a highly regarded public speaker. She has presented on art, writing, bereavement, and the healing capacities of creativity around the world. Contact the Author/Artist for bookings info@alexismariechute.com When not in her art/photo studio or at her computer, Chute loves to spend quality time with her family, read fiction and non-fiction, watch reality TV, paddleboard, and canoe. She is not a winter person but lives in frosty Edmonton, Alberta, Canada with her husband and their three living children. Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ Pinterest ~ YouTube ~ LinkedIn  Giveaway Details: Autographed copy of the entire 8th Island Trilogy (USA only) (ends August 17) To ENTER the GIVEAWAY, Click on HERE!   The 8th Island Trilogy by Alexis Marie Chute Category: Young Adult Fiction (13 to 17 yrs) (368 to 448 pages) Genre: fantasy, adventure, coming of age, ya, adult Publisher: SparkPress. Release dates: Jun 2018; Oct 2019; Apr 2020 Tour dates: Jul 7 to Aug 10, 2020 Content Rating: PG: Battle scenes and death depicted. Series Description: The 8th Island Trilogy includes Above the Star, Below the Moon, and Inside the Sun. Over the three books, we follow the adventures of a quirky family, the Wellsleys. The main characters are frumpy senior citizen Archie, his daughter-in-law, Tessa, and his ill fourteen-year-old granddaughter Ella. Archie, searching for his missing son, accidentally transports his family—and a cruise ship full of people—to a magical planet. There, they uncover the truth: all worlds are dying. Yet hope is not lost. A way to restore all that will soon be destroyed is revealed, along with the realization that Ella will play a role no one could have imagined—especially not her. On the mysterious island of Jarr-Wya, many races of creatures battle for dominion and magic lurks around every corner. When the world falls dark, that is when bravery must shine the brightest, and the Wellsleys will reveal the strength they never knew they possessed—as well as the power of love to save the day.  Book Details: Above the Star by Alexis Marie Chute Category: Young Adult Fiction (13 to 17 yrs), 368 pages Release dates: Jun 2018 Content Rating: PG: Battle scenes and death depicted. Book Description: When frumpy senior citizen Archie goes in search of his missing son in the Spanish Canary Islands, he stumbles upon a higher mission: locating a magical cure for his ailing fourteen-year-old granddaughter, Ella. Using a portal-jumping device called the Tillastrion, Archie and a stone-headed creature named Zeno are transported to Jarr-Wya, a magnificent yet terrifying island in a connected realm―along with Ella and her strong-willed mother, Tessa, who accidentally stow away on this not-so-secret quest. What they find on Jarr-Wya is an island tortured by a wicked Star anchored in the sea, and a raging three-way battle for dominion between the stone-wielding Bangols, the fiery Olearons, and the evil Millia sands. Ella’s wit and resourcefulness emerge in this new world, while Tessa is forced to confront her long-buried secrets and a confusing new love triangle. When Ella is captured, Tessa and Archie―with the help of a company of peculiar allies―set out to save her and unravel the terrible mystery of her cure. A mesmerizing, stay-up-all-night adventure of three unlikely heroes, Above the Star reminds us that even the smallest act of bravery can transform our lives and the fates of the worlds around us. Buy Links: Amazon ~ Amazon.ca ~ B&N ~ Chapters Indigo ~ Target ~ Book Depository ~ Google Play Add to Goodreads  REVIEW by LAWonder10: A Seattle Hospital nurse, Tessa, had met and married her college sweetheart feeling certain this would be her only love, forever. Arden was a History major and became a Professor of Ancient Egyptian Dynasties. They both were dedicated to their little daughter as well as each other. Then, the devastating news were given them that Ella had an advanced cancerous tumor at the base of her skull. The surgery and treatments didn't work. Arden's parents were a big part of their lives but when Ella was seven, her grandma died and her Grandpa Archie moved in with them. Ella and her grandpa Archie developed a strong bond. Now for the past two years, the father, Arden, has been missing. Tessa is devastated and has lost all trust in her husband for abandoning them when Ella is so critically ill. Archie doesn't understand what happened to Arden, yet he retains faith in his son. Arden was desperate. He had to find a cure for his daughter. He did the only thing he knew to do but he couldn't tell anyone or they would have him locked up in a psycho ward. Archie found Arden's journals Tessa put in the attic. He felt he had a concrete clue to where his son had gone missing to. He used all his finances to create a marvelous cruise for him, Tessa and Ella. This became the cruise of a lifetime for many! This book is packed with bizarre characters and constant action. in several instances the reader feels he/she has it figured out, yet delves into further surprises. This creative work is a cross genre of horror, fantasy, action/suspense and mystery/romance. For those who are concerned about ethnic/racial problems, this will lessen any mortal issues! The author has extended her creativity to a severe bizarre characterization. There is much intrigue and emotion within these pages. Although preposterous, there are parts, of the tale, one can relate to and even gain a relevant message from. AS outlandish as this book was, I was anxious to continue with the next one to discover "what happened next". I offer a Four Stars rating for this book. *This book was gifted me without pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review. Other Books in the Series:
“A Wrinkle in Time meets The Princess Bride.” Review by Lee Lee Thompson, The Perpetual You Magazine “Chute’s novel weaves STAR WARS-like characters with a WONDER-like message to form an enrapturing read for booklovers of all ages.” US Review of Books “Fast and bizarre… Never a dull moment.“ Foreward Reviews   Meet the Author: Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning author, artist, photographer, art curator, filmmaker, and public speaker. She has received over 40 noteworthy distinctions for her visual and literary work. Her award-winning fantasy series The 8th Island Trilogy includes, Above the Star, Below the Moon, and Inside the Sun. The series has been described as “A WRINKLE IN TIME meets THE PRINCESS BRIDE” by The Perpetual You magazine, and “Fast and bizarre… never a dull moment” by Forward Reviews. The 8th Island Trilogy “weaves STAR WARS-like characters with a WONDER-like message to form an enrapturing read for blooklovers of all ages” – US Review of Books. Chute’s bestselling memoir, Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss, was a top Kirkus title of 2017 and received a plethora of other literary distinctions. The memoir was accompanied by the feature documentary of the same name, which has screened internationally for the last three years. Chute received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Design from the University of Alberta, Canada, and studied at Media Design school in Auckland, New Zealand. She graduated valedictorian with her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, USA. Chute is a highly regarded public speaker. She has presented on art, writing, bereavement, and the healing capacities of creativity around the world. Contact the Author/Artist for bookings info@alexismariechute.com When not in her art/photo studio or at her computer, Chute loves to spend quality time with her family, read fiction and non-fiction, watch reality TV, paddleboard, and canoe. She is not a winter person but lives in frosty Edmonton, Alberta, Canada with her husband and their three living children. Author's Links: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ Pinterest ~ YouTube ~ LinkedIn  Giveaway Details: Autographed copy of the entire 8th Island Trilogy (USA only) (ends August 17) To ENTER the GIVEAWAY, Click on HERE!   Book Details: Marly in Pieces by Cathrina Constantine Publication date: July 10th 2020 Genres: Mystery, Young Adult Synopsis: Marly refuses to believe her friend, Rae, committed suicide. Even though her wrists were slit, Marly knows her beautifully vibrant bestie would never do that. Even though the two had drifted apart, Marly and Rae made a blood promise long ago to always look out for each other. Even in death, Marly intends to honor that vow. Determined to find Rae’s killer, Marly faces a long list of potential suspects. It seems everyone has secrets or lies they are covering up… including the boy she loves. Can Marly uncover the murderer’s identity before she becomes the next victim? Goodreads | ~ Purchase: Will be found here come release day: https://amzn.to/3f0Sv7j   AUTHOR BIO: I am blessed with a loving family and forever friends. My world revolves around them. I grew up in the small village of Lancaster, NY, where I married my sweetheart. I'm devoted to raising 5 cherished children, and now my grandchildren. I love to immerse myself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps me to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at my computer you can find me in the woods taking long walks with my dog. Author links: Twitter | Facebook | Author's Blog | BookBub | Goodreads | Instagram |  GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)
To ENTER, Click on HERE!    Book Details: Princess Bachelorette: An Exclusive Selection of Princess Bachelorette Stories Published by: Enchanted Quill Press Publication date: July 1st 2020 Genres: Fairy Tales, Fantasy, New Adult, Young Adult Synopsis: Your favorite fairytale love stories, but not how you remember them… Enchanted Quill Press takes you on a journey to far away lands and kingdoms that need an heir to continue their reign. Come on a journey to meet the fairytale princesses you know and love and find out how they met their love match in these never seen before retellings. With a matchmaking competition to win the heart of the princess, this set will leave you wondering, will she choose her Prince Charming? Goodreads: ~ Purchase: 99¢ for a limited time! ~ Amazon 
  GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)
To ENTER Giveaway, Click on HERE!    Book Details: The Order of the Key by Justine Manzano Publication date: July 9th 2020 Genres: Urban Fantasy, Young Adult Synopsis: Jacklyn Madison never expected to be attacked by a beast on an evening snack run. Add a rescue mission enacted by a trained regiment of teenaged warriors, and her night officially becomes just like a scene from one of her beloved comic books. Turns out, her parents were once members of the Order of the Key, gifted humans that protect humanity from creatures spilling through inter-dimensional rifts. Unable to control her newfound abilities, Jacklyn and her family rejoin the Order. After an attack on their headquarters leaves Jacklyn questioning their leadership, Kyp—the boy who led her initial rescue—reveals a darker secret. The Order’s leader may be corrupt, and Jacklyn’s questions could put her family in danger. Drawn into the search for proof, Jacklyn must use her guts and magical brawn to protect her family, her friends, and herself from the monsters spilling from rifts, and those hiding within the Order. Goodreads | ~ Purchase: Amazon | B&N
Q: In what ways has writing affected other aspects of your life? A: When you’re writing a story, I believe all the characters become little bits of you. This, of course, means I have a menagerie of characters in my head. It also means I say weird things like “This is Kyp’s song,” or “Jacklyn wouldn’t go for that,” to the people who live with me. It also means that, in a weird way, my characters have become my friends. A character begins as the seed of an idea. For me, when I’m writing, I usually know the plot first, before I have any idea of who the characters in the story are going to be, I have a plot idea. But it’s usually very flat. Maybe not even really a plot, but a concept. Something I would like to explore. It’s the characters, however, that make the concept a plot. The characters who make the story. And they begin to spring from one thought: What would I do in this situation? And if I was more angry? Then, how would I react? What if I was conflicted? Then what? If I looked at this situation as someone who has never been dealt a similar hand before? I look at the situation from all the angles I can imagine. And most times, all of those points of view make it into the story somewhere. But there’s more to it than that. Story building is a lot of weaving. There’s a great deal of building from shattered parts. Character aspects of people I know find their way into the mix. Character aspects of other character’s I’ve loved in the past slide into it as well. And then they stew together in my mind. When I write, I take a long time building my outline. Sometimes a year. In stories that end up being back burner to others, they can sit for longer. For whatever the time, I allow the characteristics to spin together in my mind. To bubble and brew until a fully-formed character arises from the primordial ooze. And then, once I know one, others form. Often a reaction to the first, they become the original character’s friends or foils. And before I know it, I have a cast. Character building is truly one of my favorite parts of writing, because I’ve always loved magic. Magic is how it feels to me. Like creation magic. And once I have spawned these people in my mind, I get to enjoy them for years to come. And then, after some time, so do you.   AUTHOR BIO: Justine Manzano is a YA author and editor living in Bronx, NY with her husband, son, and a cacophony of cats. Her novel, The Order of the Key will be available from Black Rose Writing in July 2020. She can normally be found at her website, www.justinemanzano.com,and she’s on all the usual social media haunts. If you’ve looked in all these places and can’t find her, she’s probably off reading fanfiction. She’ll be back soon. Author links: Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram  You can find the schedule here!  Giveaway Details: Tour-wide giveaway
To ENTER Giveaway, Click on HERE!    Book Details: Genes (ISAN, #3) by Mary Ting Published by: Vesuvian Books | Publication date: June 30th 2020 Genres: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Young Adult Synopsis: Allegiances will be tested. Identities will be revealed. No one is safe. While searching for the HelixB88 anti-serum on the black market, Ava uncovers valuable intel that may help the rebels in their fight to bring down ISAN—the location of a hidden facility. But first, the insurgents must find the female citizens unexpectedly displaying powers without use of the Helix serum before ISAN captures them. As the rebels join forces with other sectors, ISAN plans their destruction by using someone they don’t suspect at the rebel home base. A traitor within. Now, Ava must make a dangerous decision, one that could risk their capture—or worse. Goodreads | ~ Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo |
What process do you go through in creating visual background scenes to involve your audience the feeling they are in the story? Before I begin, I looked at pictures through Pinterest or Google. Sometimes I do research. For example, I had to research on the type of guns used during the 16th century for my story, Jaclyn and the Beanstalk. I also had to research what they wore and ate. After I get a general idea on how the world looks like, I dive into the characters. I begin with the main character and who is around the protagonist to make the story come alive. You want to make it simply but realistic as possible. I try to concentrate on the five sense too—touch, hear, taste, see, and smell. And always use active voice verses passive one.   AUTHOR BIO: International Bestselling, Award-Winning Author Mary Ting writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers all over the world. Her books run a wide range of genres: science fiction, fantasy, and swoon worthy stories. Her storytelling talents have won her a devoted legion of fans and garnered critical praise. Mary was born in Seoul Korea and resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two dogs—Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Becoming an author was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, she retired from teaching after twenty years. Author links: Bookbub | News Update | Group page | Facebook | Instagram | Tweet |Website Email: authormaryting@outlook.com You can find the Schedule HERE!  Giveaway: Tour-wide giveaway (INT)
To ENTER, Click on HERE!   This sequel to The Whispering of the Willows is set in the late 1920s' Appalachia, where granny witches and spiritualism often show the path for wanderers to take, especially in matters of the heart.  The Melody of the Mulberries (Big Creek Series, #2) By Tonya Jewel Blessing Historical Romance | Paperback & ebook, 248 Pages September 1, 2019 by Capture Books BOOK DETAILS: This Big Creek sequel follows the lives and loves of two siblings. Coral determines to visit the family's nemesis, Charlie, now in prison for the rape of her sister, Emerald, and the murder of her inlaw. When Mercy re-enters brother Ernest's life, he has already found a new attraction in his elder brother's widow. Coral sat in contemplation under a mulberry tree. It was spring, and the fragrant female blossoms promised the mid-summer arrival of first white, then pink, then crimson, and finally deep purple berries. The white berries were hard and tart and enjoyed by the quail, wild turkeys, mocking birds, and blue jays. The blackish purple berries were soft and sweet - perfect for pies and jams. When the berries turned white, Coral would thank the good Lord for providing food for the birds. When the berries ripened she would thank the good Lord for the sweetness savored in her mouth and curse the birds for wanting more than their share. Where Emerald Ashby's story leaves us in the last pages of The Whispering of the Willows, sixteen-year-old Coral Ashby's story begins. Like the changing mulberries, Appalachian siblings Coral and Ernest Ashby, navigate life through the late 1920s. Coral is determined to visit the family nemesis, Charlie, who now stews in prison. When Ernest's previous love interest, Mercy, returns to the holler of Big Creek, she discovers that his heart is now singing a melody for Charlotte, the older Ashby brother's widow. But Mercy has brought along her own spiritual tools and a special friend who guides her way. Accompanied by friends and foes, matters of the heart complicate life for Coral and Ernest. Relationships must be journeyed carefully. (Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository  REVIEW by LAWonder10: This is a story about a group of people residing in the Appalachian Mountains. Although lacking in proper education and language skills, the adults do all they can to instill in the children's minds the importance of education. Earnest and Lottie are presently the teachers. Coral feels a call from the Lord is sending her into the city to try and forgive and "save" a rapist. Since a major complication between Ernest and Lottie arose, Lottie accompanied her and the Reverend to spend some week in Charleston. The Characters were interesting and well-defined. The scenes were easy to visualize. I did not feel a connection to the story. I felt the wording was simplistic, resembling the early school books I read in elementary. The story-line was good but the story was very predictable. It is an intriguing conversational text, similar to the text of Huckleberry Finn. It is a great book for relaxed reading. I offer a Three Stars Rating. This Book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.  REVIEW by VICKIE: The Melody of The Mulberries - Tonya Jewel Blessing This is a great read. It was really interesting and enjoyable to learn about times in the 1920's and to understand more about the Appalachian Mountains. The Folklore and the way they taught bible and life learning. The only disappointment I had was, when reading along, I came to the end. I wasn't ready for that. The characters are wonderful. They are all well-developed and it is easy to feel their emotions. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. The book cover and title are a perfect match for the story. I highly recommend this book to all who love to read a good story. I give this story a literary rating of 5/5  A 1920s' saga of Emerald Ashby coming of age.  The Whispering of the Willows (Big Creek Series, #1) Book Details: Young Emie isn't desperate for a man, but she is surrounded by a variety of them in the Appalachian holler of Big Creek. How does a young girl find her way, and grow strong, when life begins to spin out of control? Set against the superstitions and old time religion in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, author Tonya Jewel Blessing tells a difficult, yet redemptive story of a blossoming young woman who is accompanied by her friends and her foes on a journey towards hope and healing. Love weaves through gut-wrenching circumstances and dismal poverty where Emerald Ashby grows strong despite grievous wrongs committed against her. In this desperate historical setting, mysterious disappearances lead to traps set for the innocent. Now, when key individuals begin carving out a rescue plan, Emerald Ashby sets a few of her own traps. It's a page turner. In this ailing town. What will be their measure of success? Cleverly suspenseful and sweetly spoken, the storyteller's unassuming voice transforms an Appalachian trail of tears into holy terror against an evil that stalks the innocent. In The Whispering of the Willows, an Appalachian marriage practice might be compared to the modern sex trade which exploits young females. Not since Catherine Marshall's strong heroine named Christy, has an Appalachian drama come to life like The Whispering of the Willows. Includes: Bibliography and Book Club Questions. A novel for women examining the Old Time Religion. Coming of age in the Southern Appalachians. If you love a story where the underdog surfaces and thrives, you'll love this story. (Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook
Best book I have read in a while. Didn't want it to end. Great and different story line. - Christine This is a fantastic book that had me examining my own personal spiritual journey. Kudos to the author for writing such a heartfelt, inspiring work. - Verified Amazon Reader I absolutely loved the characters and the story. Their faith in God helped them through the trials they faced. The story is engrossing and very believable. Hope this book is a winner for the author. - Verified Purchaser "The story is emotionally gripping and pulls the reader along to see what will happen next. The best stories grab our emotions and don’t let go." - Judge's Commentary from 24th Annual Writer’s Digest Book Awards The Whispering of the Willows is an inspiring story full of twists and turns, freedom and redemption, the expected and unexpected. This book brings to light the struggles of young woman past and present. God’s goodness and provision flow from each page. - Linda Bottoms, Rocky Mountain Ministry Network Women’s Ministries Director   ABOUT the AUTHOR - Tonya Jewel Blessing National/International Speaker, Published Author, Co-Founder/Director Strong Cross Ministries Tonya grew up in rural Ohio. She currently lives in South Africa with her husband of 35 years. Tonya decided to trust Jesus for the destination of her young soul at the age of four. As a young adult, she worked for a well known television evangelist, and traveled with a Christian drama group throughout the Midwest. Tonya attended Arapahoe Community College and Akron University, and has enjoyed a trusted position in formal and informal ministry settings and training opportunities. Tonya also worked as a children’s pastor, youth pastor, and women’s pastor. She served on staff at Praise Church in Littleton, Colorado for a number of years, and also worked as the Director of Women’s Ministries for Journey Church in Strasburg, Colorado. She has served on a number of ministry boards that support concerns for women. Tonya and her husband operated Strong Cross Ranch Colorado for over eleven years, a place of respite for missionaries and ministers. They had the honor of hosting over 2,000 guests during that time frame. The Blessings relocated their ministry to South Africa in June of 2012. The ministry continues to serve and partner with local pastors and missionaries through a variety of creative and responsible means. The Blessings oversee building projects, feeding programs, educational services, interventions, and church planting. Tonya is a well-known national and international speaker, often serving women in areas of the world which cannot be publicized. She writes articles and devotionals for missions’ magazines and women’s groups and is also a published author. She is the author of two historical fiction books The Whispering of the Willows and The Melody of the Mulberries. Both novels are set in Big Creek, West Virginia, during the late 1920’s. Tonya has also co-authored a devotional called Soothing Rain – Living Water to Refresh Your Soul. All three of Tonya’s books have received literary awards. Tonya enjoys speaking and sharing her life with women at retreats and events. She thinks that women are amazing, and appreciates that the female gender is multifaceted yet fragile creations of God. In her personal life and as a speaker, Tonya believes that God’s Word is powerful, and needs to be read and written on her heart and on the hearts of women everywhere. For additional information, please review her author and ministry webpage: www.TonyaJewelBlessing.com She was ordained in 2011 and is currently pursuing further pastoral and biblical studies. For additional information regarding Strong Cross Ministries South Africa, please visit the ministry web page – www.strongcrossministries.org. Website | Goodreads | Amazon | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram GIVEAWAY!  One winner will receive a $30 Amazon Gift Card Open internationally (to those who can use one of Amazon's branches) Ends July 1, 2020 TO ENTER, Click on HERE!  Why Can't Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza? By Andy V. Romer Book Blitz & Giveaway! {Ends 7/2/20}6/22/2020   Book Details: Why Can’t Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza? (The Pizza Chronicles #2) by Andy V. Roamer Publication date: June 1st 2020 Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult Synopsis: RV, having successfully completed his freshman year at the demanding Boston Latin School, is hoping for a great summer. He’s now fifteen years old and looking forward to sharing many languid summer days with his friend Bobby, who’s told him he has gay feelings too. But life and family and duties for a son of immigrant parents makes it difficult to steal time away with Bobby. Bobby, too, has pressures. He spends part of the summer away at football camp, and his father pushes him to work a summer job at a friend’s accounting firm. Bobby takes the job grudgingly, wanting to spend any extra time practicing the necessary skills to make Latin’s varsity football team. On top of everything, RV’s best friend Carole goes away for the summer, jumping at an opportunity to spend it with her father in Paris. Luckily, there is always Mr. Aniso, RV’s Latin teacher, to talk to whenever RV is lonely. He’s also there for RV when he inadvertently spills one of Bobby’s secrets, and Bobby is so angry RV is afraid he is ready to cut off the friendship. Goodreads | ~ Purchase: Amazon | B&N | Kobo |  AUTHOR BIO: Andy V. Roamer grew up in the Boston area and moved to New York City after college. He worked in book publishing for many years, starting out in the children's and YA books division and then wearing many other hats. WHY CAN'T LIFE BE LIKE PIZZA? is the first novel in THE PIZZA CHRONICLES. The books follow the exploits of RV, the teenage son of immigrants from Lithuania in Eastern Europe, as RV tries to negotiate the four years of his demanding high school, his budding sexuality, and new relationships. To relax, Andy loves to ride his bike, read, watch foreign and independent movies, and travel. Author links: Website | Instagram | GIVEAWAY! Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)
TO ENTER, Click on HERE!   Hungry Hearts by Julie Hoag Published January 21st 2020 by Swoon Romance Book Blurb: For fans of “The Boys Next Door” by Jennifer Echols an d “Holding Up the Universe” by Jennifer Niven. When an amateur chef attempts to use food as his love language, Landra, who struggles with anorexia, finds his approach off-putting. In fact, she finds Brian to be rather annoying. Undeterred, Brian snags Landra in a friendship that eventually grows into something else, as she finally trusts him enough to sample some of his homemade gourmet treats. But things have not evolved to the level Brian would like, and soon he realizes Landra’s issue isn’t only with the food he makes. She into the football team’s hottest player. But Brian isn't about to get one-upped by a jock. He decides to ask Landra out at the same time that Landra manages to snag a date with the football star. ADD to GOODREADS |  Hungry Hearts - Julie Hoag This book has a good story line. It addresses many of the things teenage kids go through in their jr. high and high school years. The mean things kids do to other kids is unbelievable I wish there was a way to get through to them so they could understand the harm they cause. Also get them to care about others enough not to continue to hurt them. The characters are well-developed and their feelings and emotions are well-written and easy to feel. Brian is my hero. He got hurt more than once but was fast to forgive and came back. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. I recommend this book to others to enjoy a good story and also to learn more about what goes on with our youth. This is a great deal of profanity throughout the book. I give this book a literary rating of 5/5 written by vickie  ABOUT the AUTHOR: Hello & Welcome! I’m Julie. I’m a wife and a mom to 3 boys. I’m sharing Ideas for Recipes, Family Lifestyle, Travel, DIY & Pets:) I’m SO happy you are here! Leave me a comment, I’d love to hear from you. I’m also a YA Author of the novel “Hungry Hearts” published in 2020 with Swoon Romance/Month9Books and Georgia McBride. “Out of Control” releases in 2021. WEBSITE | GOODREADS |  |
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