Giveaway: Brittle and interview with Jordan Calher

A diabetic since freshman year, the control Sara Jacobs needs to survive is obliterated when she unleashes Voodoo barons of the afterlife from the dark witch trial history of her hometown -- Andover, Massachusetts. Past and present blend and ignite as her life crumbles beyond recognition, shattered by the same forbidden forces she is drawn to embrace: magic, the supernatural, and the demon raging uncontrolled in her veins. Rewired by magic, she revisits and dominates her petty high school world – paybacks to authority, and a little help with that crush from freshman year.
From a gossip-crazed high school to a moonless limbo of tombstone covered hills, BRITTLE is what happens when Sara stops being the victim.

Find Jordan:
website : www.jordancalher.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/JordanCalher
Blog: http://jordancalher.blogspot.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5835460.Jordan_Calher
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Brittle-Between-Tides-Book-ebook/dp/B00815QNRK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345560990&sr=8-1&keywords=jordan+calher



-5 ebook copies, open internationally
-Fill out Rafflecopter to enter
-Ends on 12/21/2012 11:59 pm EST
-Make sure to check out and comment on our interview below for an extra entry
-If you win a review on your blog and/or amazon is appreciated but not required.
a Rafflecopter giveaway




--The Twitter version: tell us about your book in 140 characters or less. - High school diabetic Sara Jacobs unleashes Voodoo Barons of the afterlife from the dark witch trial history of her hometown: Andover, MA. Worlds collide.

--How did you get the idea for the story? - Ever since I was a kid I’ve been enamored by all things magical, occult, weird, or otherwise askew. This combined with seeing first hand all the hassle my friend has to go through with her diabetes. Blood is and always has been a very powerful magical substance. And not just in magical traditions, but in religions etc. I mean, blood is life. It’s obviously the source. Sugar, the sweetness that makes us who we are. Blood and sugar. Too attractive to ignore.

--Which character would you most/least like to have dinner with? - Hands down: Baron LaCroix, Baron of the Crossroads of life and death. Sara gets to have a drink with him, and that’s a meeting she’ll never forget.

--Do you have any other works in progress? Any teasers or release dates? – Writing has started on Book II. No teasers or release dates, but the working title is “Darkness Falls.” Except it’s such a good name that google already pulls up a lot of stuff with that title ☹

--What book(s) is your book’s “cousin”? (Similar set-up or style) - I’ve never encountered anything like BRITTLE. Brittany Geragotelis wrote LIFE’S A WITCH that apparently deals with some kind of modern/colonial witch hunt crossover stuff, but I haven’t read it.

--What are some of your favorite books? Do you still have much time to read? - Herman Hesse DEMIAN is my all time fav. I still have some time to read, yup. I’m currently reading through PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH that my sister lent me.

--If a fairy godmother told you could be put into the world of your favorite book for 24 hours, which book would you pick and why? - Gee, I would want to go into a really happy, nice place where everything is awesome. Trouble is, most YA fantasy fiction is rife with conflict and struggle and diabolical or evil forces threatening the peace. And that’s what I read.

--Do you need anything to write (music, coffee, etc)? Are there any songs on your playlist- songs that inspired you or that were playing while you wrote? - I need something to write but I still don’t know what that is. Sometimes it’s there, sometimes it’s not. While writing, I found myself listening to a lot of Phutureprimitive (*Luminous EP) and Le Peuple de l’Herbe, but most of the writing was done in public spaces like MacDo and various coffee shops = ambient noise/music was the soundtrack.

--If you could have any superpower what would you choose? - The power to vanquish ignorance by giving everyone true compassion.

--Besides writing, what do you like to do in your free time? - Love spending time with my dogter, Bling.

--What is one thing you would tell your 15 year old self? - “IF YOU CAN BELIEVE IT, IT ONLY GETS BETTER”

Lightning round: this or that?
Vanilla or chocolate? Do you really expect me to answer that?
Edward or Jacob? Jacob (disclaimer: I’ve only read the first book)
Hockey or soccer? Soccer
Ebook or paper? Paper
Salty or sweet? Sweet
Beach or mountains? Beach!
Phone call or email? Text
Early bird or night owl? Night owl
Dog or cat? DOG all the way
Messy or neat? Neat
Ninjas or pirates? Pirates pirates pirates. In fact, as you may find out, Sara has a particular (and mysterious) connection to the sea. Who knows what she may discover?

My question to you, my lovely readers:
Have you ever had dietary restrictions or known someone with them?

What do you think of Brittle?

Cover Reveal: The Summer I Became a Nerd by Leah Rae Miller

 The Summer I Became a Nerd by Leah Rae Miller

On the outside, seventeen-year-old Madelyne Summers looks like your typical blond cheerleader—perky, popular, and dating the star quarterback. But inside, Maddie spends more time agonizing over what will happen in the next issue of her favorite comic book than planning pep rallies with her squad. That she’s a nerd hiding in a popular girl's body isn’t just unknown, it's anti-known. And she needs to keep it that way.
Summer is the only time Maddie lets her real self out to play, but when she slips up and the adorkable guy behind the local comic shop’s counter uncovers her secret, she’s busted. Before she can shake a pom-pom, Maddie’s whisked into Logan’s world of comic conventions, live-action role-playing, and first-person-shooter video games. And she loves it. But the more she denies who she really is, the deeper her lies become…and the more she risks losing Logan forever.

Links:


Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14744489-the-summer-i-became-a-nerd
Twitter - https://twitter.com/LeahR_Miller
Website/Blog - http://leahraemillerblog.blogspot.com/



Leah Rae Miller

Born and raised in northern Louisiana, Leah Rae Miller still lives there on a windy hill with her husband and kids. She loves comic books, lava lamps, fuzzy socks, and Cherry Coke. She spends most of her days reading things she likes and writing things she hopes other people will like.


Entangled Teen is an imprint of Entangled Publishing, an exclusive, boutique publisher of romantic fiction. Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Entangled's goal is to bridge the gap between traditional and indie publishing, giving both readers and authors the best of both worlds.

My question to you, my lovely readers:
What do you think of the cover and/or do you consider yourself a nerd?

$100 Giveaway: Amazon or PayPal from Keegan's Chronicles Trilogy

Keegan's Chronicles Trilogy Set
Books 1-3

Coexist:

Sixteen-year-old Keegan is struggling to keep her huge secret from her friends--she's an elf, descended from a long line of elves that live in secrecy alongside humans.
In elfin society, mates are predetermined but not allowed to meet until they are eighteen. Against tradition, Keegan's brother Thaddeus told her Rourk's name because his visions warned him she'd need Rourk's protection, especially since Keegan will play a key role in the coming war between the dark and light elves.

Conflicted:

Keegan, is only alive now due to Black Magic, and her bond with her Chosen is broken. She cannot remember Rourk at all.
For the first time, she feels like a normal teenager. She is dating Donald, her long-time crush, and everything seems perfect. But Rourk still feels their bond, and despairs for the woman he was always meant to love.
Keegan's best friend Anna is determined to find a way to use her powers to return Keegan's bond, no matter what it takes. The question is does Keegan even want it?

Consumed:

Keegan has dealt with a lot over the last two years: Death, black magic and the loss of her bond to her chosen mate. But on her eighteenth birthday, the bond with Rourk returns.
Now, Keegan faces her hardest decision. Tradition requires elves marry at eighteen. If she accepts the path laid out for her, she will be spared a lifetime of physical and emotional pain. But will that life ever really be her own?

Purchase
Amazon * Nook * iBooks


Author Julia Crane

Julia Crane is the author of the YA paranormal fiction novels: Keegan's Chronicles, Mesmerized, Dark Promise and Eternal Youth. Julia was encouraged by her mother to read and use her imagination, and she's believed in magical creatures since the day her grandmother first told her an Irish tale. Julia has traveled far and wide to all the places her grandmother told her about, gaining inspiration from her journeys to places like Nepal, Cyprus, Sri Lanka, Italy, France and many more. And who knows? Maybe the magical creatures she writes about are people she met along the way.

Julia Crane has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Although she's spent most of her life on the US east coast, she currently lives in Dubai with her husband and three children.

Links
Website * Twitter * Facebook

Book Blast Giveaway Deatils

$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 12/9/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry. Simply enter it for the first person you follow and leave the others blank.


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

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Praise:

Really enjoyed this book. The story draws you in, and the characters are engaging, especially Rourk. I've never read a book about elves, so I wasn't sure what to expect. This was really good. Would recommend to anyone interested in a quick, fun, paranormal read.
-- Amazon Reviewer

I am not one for Elves or Fairies but yeah these Elves RULE! What is not to love? You have an age old prophecy, destined loves, a great family and amazing friends. Not to mention .... Rourk *yummy* All that is left is the amazing way it all is put together into this fantastic story.
-- Amazon Reviewer

If you pick up this book, I'm sure it will not disappoint, it had everything, it was cute, yet dark..and well that combo just makes for a perfect book on my shelf, Julia has truly written an amazing read. (:
-- Haley @ Ya-aholic.com

Interview, copied from her site:



Interview with Author, Harris Channing



Harris: When did you start writing? Was it something you "always" did or is it something that you discovered as an adult?

Julia: When I was younger I wrote a lot. I sent short stories and poems to magazines as a young teen. Hand written and by snail mail. I’m sure it would be a good laugh if I could get my hands on them. I stopped writing as I got older, life just took over, and it seemed like an unrealistic dream. Instead I buried myself in others' books. I have always loved to read.

When I was in college, I had to write a 10 page paper on five events in my life that had an impact on the person I had become. The teacher read the first page to the class and asked to see me after school. He invited me to join a creative writing club. This re-sparked my interest in writing. However, I had two young children at home and was lucky I had time to go to college let alone anything extra. So it was put on the back burner once again.

Fast forward several years later we moved to Dubai. Prior to moving, I ran a small business a home CrossFit gym. Which kept me extremely busy. In Dubai, I had nothing to occupy my time, so I decided to write.

Harris: How long did it take you to write your current release? Was it a fast and furious write or a long and arduous project that you'd never thought you'd finish?

Julia: It took about three months to get the rough draft complete. A VERY rough draft. I have spent the last 3-4 revising and editing.

Harris: What made you decide to self-publish?

Julia: I read an article on self-publishing, and how it has opened the doors to so many. I thought it was a great opportunity to do something I had always dreamed of.

Harris: What is your writing schedule like?

Julia: I wish I had a schedule. I have three children, so I write when I can. I’m often up late at night writing while everyone is asleep.

Harris: Who is your favorite author? Did he/she inspire you to write?

Julia: My favorite author is Ayn Rand, and no I can’t say she inspired me to write. However, she did inspire me to be a better person.

Harris: In your books, who is your favorite character?

Julia: That would have to be Thaddeus, even though he is not a main character he has a lot on his shoulders. He is expected to save the elves from extinction. Thaddeus has a great personality, and very insightful for his age.

Harris: What’s the skinny on your WIP?

Julia: I’m currently working on book two in the series of Keegan’s Chronicles. It will be called Conflicted. I’m hoping to have it out fall/winter timeframe.

Harris: Is your family aware of your writing? Do you share your work with them, or would you rather they didn't read your stories?

Julia: My family is aware, however most of my friends are not. I’m probably driving my family crazy it’s the only thing I seem to talk about these days. Once I get the book listed I will announce it on Facebook and tell all my friends.

Waiting on Wednesday 11/28

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. I also feature books that may have already released, but I am anxiously waiting to read.

This week, I'm featuring:

Nobody But Us

Halbrook, Kristin *

Bonnie and Clyde meets IF I STAY in this addictively heart-wrenching story of two desperate teenagers on the run from their pasts.
They’re young. They’re in love. They’re on the run.
Zoe wants to save Will as much as Will wants to save Zoe. When Will turns eighteen, they decide to run away together. But they never expected their escape to be so fraught with danger....
When the whole world is after you, sometimes it seems like you can’t run fast enough.
Nobody But Us, told in alternating perspectives from Will and Zoe, is an unflinching novel, in turns heartbreaking and hopeful, about survival, choices, and love...and how having love doesn’t always mean that you get a happy ending. Described as “beautiful, heartbreaking, and exhilarating” by Kody Keplinger, author of The DUFF, Nobody But Us will prove irresistible to fans of Nina Lacour, Jenny Han, and Sara Zarr.

Releases: Jan 29th 2013

What are you waiting on?

$100 Amazon Giftcard or Paypal cash for The Crossroads Saga by Mary Ting

Crossroads by Mary Ting:

Claudia Emerson has a good friend who shares the same first name and last name. That friend unfortunately dies in a tragic accident during homecoming dance. Claudia is distraught at the loss of her friend, but is even more disturbed by her dreams, which seem to take her to another place called Crossroads. Unknown to her, Crossroads is like a second heaven, a place between heaven and earth. It is where the souls of humans in comas or near death experiences may wander.
There, Claudia meets Michael, a nephilim, a half angel, half human, whom she often meets in her dreams. It turns out that this isn't her first visit to Crossroads, which is an enigma for no human can ever travel there until Claudia. Now the fallen and demons are after her, suspecting she must be special and it is up to Michael and the other nephilims to protect her.
Can Michael fight his growing feelings for Claudia and protect her as a guardian angel should? The answer awaits you! Follow the exciting path to Crossroads!

Purchase:
Crossroads is FREE on Amazon
Get your FREE copy

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Smashwords

Crossroads Excerpt:

He held me gently with both of his arms and wings this time. All I needed was his touch, for him to hold me that way; it made all the difference in the world. I was safe again. Without thought, I turned toward him. The look in his eyes was so tempting, telling me that he wanted me too. I knew it was impossible for him to want and need me the same way, but his eyes told me something else. The depth of my yearning and what I wanted to do at this very moment was undeniable.
I leaned toward him and tenderly placed a kiss on his supple lips to thank him. It was an innocent kiss. What was the harm in just one small kiss? I was extremely surprised that he didn’t push me away. I was even more surprised at myself. I was never the type to make the first move.
“Thank you for saving me,” I whispered, looking straight into his soulful eyes, as something came over me. Uncontrollable heat ran through my body. He was right. It was dangerous, but it was me who couldn’t control myself. His eyes gave me permission to continue, so I gave him another kiss, but slower and longer this time. He kissed me back, but with much hesitation. His lips were warm and sweet like honeysuckle, just how I imagined they would be. The warmth spread all over my body like a blazing fire.
Still holding me, he pulled me away with a sudden jerk, his eyes piercing into mine with anger. His left hand was tightly wrung around my hair and the other gripping my shirt so I could feel the tightness from it. Panting, wanting more of him, I forgot how to breathe, and so did he. His eyes, still fierce with anger, gripped me even tighter as he slightly pushed and pulled me, fighting and uncertain of what he wanted to do. Feeling petrified, I had to prepare myself for the consequence of my actions, for I knew I had crossed the line.


Also part of the Series:


 

Between:

As the alkins head back to Crossroads, Claudia leads her normal life; but not for long. Having a special soul, Claudia attracts danger, and she soon finds out who Gamma asked to watch over her. The Twelve, known as Divine Elders on Earth, are very much involved when they find out that Aliah, one of the God's first angels, escaped from the Abyss when the gates were opened by Aden. Needing Claudia's soul to escape the only place Aliah can reside-a place between Heaven and Earth-he sends his demons in search of all Claudia Emersons on Earth. Taking her soul will enable him to be released from Between and cross over to Crossroads, which would give him immense power. As more secrets are revealed Claudia learns about the venators--nephilim, demon hunters. Now two opposing forces must work together in order to save Claudia and humanity from the most dangerous angel ever created. But along the way, trust becomes a big issue. Will love be enough to keep Claudia and Michael together? Who will make the ultimate sacrifice? Who will betray them all?

Beyond:

Torn between the past she can't remember and a future she isn’t ready for, Claudia feels at a loss. With unanswered questions, she is certain there is more to her past than just being a venator. Finding the missing pieces in her life won’t be easy because duty calls. When mysterious dark shadows get released, an apocalypse sets in motion. The venators and the alkins must work together once again. Knowing Claudia would be the key to destroying the demons that were released, a familiar stranger appears to protect her. Drawn to the beautiful angel, Claudia finds she must unravel the mysteries of her past in order to help save the world. Who is the angel assisting her and why does she feel a strong connection to him? Time is running out. Will she discover all the secrets before it’s too late?


Author Mary Ting:
Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing Crossroads was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother. It was inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl.


Links
Goodreads * Blog * Twitter
Facebook * Website




Book Blast Giveaway:

$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 12/6/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry. Simply enter it for the first person you follow and leave the others blank.

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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

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

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

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

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

Some discussion questions from her blog:
Have you experienced a dream where you knew you were in a spiritual place or with someone that you felt that was spiritual?
 After you pass away, do you believe a loved one is waiting to take you to Heaven? Or do you find it yourself? Do you know where to go? Have you ever dreamt of anyone who passes away? Are these dreams just dreams or are they visiting you in your dream? If good spirits can visit, do you believe bad ones can as well?

Review: Awake at Dawn by C.C. Hunter

Awake at Dawn by C.C. Hunter

Step into the world of Shadow Falls, a camp that helps teens tap into their special…talents. Once you visit, you’ll never forget it—and you’ll never, ever be the same.
From the moment Kylie Galen arrived at Shadow Falls Camp, she’s had one burning question: What am I? Surrounded by vampires, werewolves, shape-shifters, fairies and witches, Kylie longs to figure out her own supernatural identity…and what her burgeoning powers mean. And now she’ll need them more than ever, because she’s being haunted by a new spirit who insists that someone Kylie knows—and loves—will die before the end of the summer. If only she only knew who she was supposed to save. And how…
But giving Kylie the most trouble is her aching heart. Gorgeous werewolf Lucas left camp with another girl, but he’s still visiting Kylie in her dreams. And Derek, a sexy half Fae who’s always been there for her when she needed him, is pushing to get more serious—and growing impatient, especially when Lucas returns. Kylie knows she needs to decide between the boys, and it’s tearing her up inside.
Yet romance will have to wait, because something from the dark side of the supernatural world is hiding in Shadow Falls. It’s about to threaten everything she holds dear…and bring her closer to her destiny.

Publishes in US: Oct 11 2011
Source: Bought

Books in series-- all except chosen are already released: Born at Midnight See my Review HERE  : Turned at Dark : Awake at Dawn Taken at Dusk : Whispers at Moonrise : Chosen at Nightfall (April 2013)

Buy:
Amazon.com Barnes & Noble Katy Budget Books iBooks Book Depository

Find C.C. Hunter online:
Website  

Trailer: 





    Though a few of the details were fuzzy, it did not take me long to dive back into Kylie's world and character. I love her voice, the sarcasm, the emotion and the kindness and loyalty to her friends. She wants and needs answers, and she takes the avoidance tactic, which I am so familiar with. I really connected with her in the feeling like an outcast at times though. That is a theme in this book and it feels like a theme in my own life. But I really like how she deals with it, and it is so well written how she makes friendships and slowly builds them.
   And oh the drama in here, there are scenes I totally loved, and could imagine so clearly. Shifter fight anyone? Make out session? Oh yes, please. C.C.'s style is great and she draws me right into the world of Shadow Falls. The range of supernatural all in one place, working together is awesome, as well as the set-up with the tension and the antagonists.
    It's awesome to watch Kylie come into herself and figure out exactly what she is, and it leaves me with questions and speculations. I also liked how she made better decisions for herself instead of being weak, even when it was hard.
     I love this series and can't wait to make time in my schedule to read the rest!

My question to you, my lovely readers:
If you had the chance, which paranormal creature would you want to be?

Book Tour: A Tale of the Other Kind by Leandi Cameron

Kai Emery likes to be indiscernible; however, his infatuation for his classmate, Sienna Fynn, has made his invisibility status all the more impossible to upkeep. His world spirals out of control when he discovers that he is a shapeshifting were-leopard, and finds himself unable to control his newfound anatomy.

An unpredictable vampire enters his life, leading him down a path that soon reveals his destiny, and discloses another world, filled with magic and terrifying darkness. When he finds himself in danger from the god of magic and darkness for disobeying a curse bestowed upon his kind, forbidding him from falling in love with a human, he has to fight for survival, and protect everyone that he loves.

Buy Now @ Amazon

Genre – YA Paranormal Fantasy

Rating – PG13

More details about the author

Official Media Pack 

Connect with Leandi Cameron on Facebook & Twitter

Blog http://www.lrcameron.blogspot.com/

Website http://www.leandicameron.com/

Guest post:

Breaking into the YA market with a little help from my friends

by Leandi Cameron

Young adult paranormal romance/fantasy has become one of the largest book genre’s within the last five years and, that, is a challenge in itself.

Young girls everywhere are dreaming of that hero that would whisk them away and take them to a place where their world will be turned upside down, and magical things will happen to them.

Even when we grow up, we still love to believe that magic really exists and that the worlds created for us by authors could, somehow, one day become a reality.

Mostly, when it comes to vampires, shapeshifters, ghosts and other fantastic or otherworldly creatures, what attracts us most is the mystery and the dangers that we, as readers, are free to explore – in our minds, these characters become real and we come to love them.

Therefore, there is no doubt that the young adult market is steaming, and very, very, attractive to many authors who are racing towards biting off a piece of the pie.

Herewith lies a great problem, however.

As the young adult book industry grows, so does the amount of books that are badly written and cheaply sold, and these books are overcrowding an industry that includes so many authors that are “true” writers with brilliant stories to tell – these beautifully crafted tales wash away within a slush pool of badly written novels that are unedited and badly thought out.

However, true writers would know that the significance of having a unique take on the paranormal genre is the most important part of making your book stand out – or that is what I keep on reading on blogs, highly acclaimed websites and from marketing experts. This, is what I did with A Tale of the Other Kind: A Therian Novel, which is the first in a series.

But, as an author and a qualified journalist and editor, there is one thing that still eludes me – marketing and driving sales. For myself, as I believe with many authors, I have the uncanny inability to know how to get my book noticed. I confess – knowing how to be a saleswoman isn’t my forte.

If you are not on the bestsellers list, you can kiss getting reviews by highly acclaimed reviewers goodbye, and getting bloggers to respond to your emails is a nightmare. You are simply invisible, no matter how well your book is written, or how unique your story is.

Marketing, marketing, marketing, the bane of my existence, yet the most important part of making a book sell. Therefore, when I realised that my abilities simply consist out of being a creative spirit, I decided to leave the marketing and sales driving to the experts.

It is important to find good avenues to market your book – yes, you are going to have to invest some money into getting this done, but if you find a marketing expert that understands your book’s genre, and is dedicated to finding you the best platforms to display your work, then, within time, you will start seeing growth with that book you slaved away on for many years. Your baby will grow, and soon it will become the stable and impressive young adult you hoped it to be.

For me, I found that Bookbuzzr, Goodreads, LibraryThing and Quora are great platforms, among others, to help increase exposure for your novel. Then there is Twitter and Facebook Fan Pages – yes, the list goes on and on. This is a lot of hard work! Especially if you have a full-time job, and need to get started on your second novel, before you start getting screaming emails from those who have read your book and can’t wait to see what happens next.

However, I cannot stress enough, the importance of enrolling the help of a book blog tour marketer. I use Orangeberry Book Tours, and without Pandora’s help, I would never get through all the work it takes to get my book’s name out there.

Hopefully, in time, continued exposure would bring about change and a climb in sales – I know I have a unique book and soon someone will notice that it isn’t “just another paranormal romance/fantasy just like all the others”. Therefore, I will continue working hard at it, and dedicate time to my novel’s success on a daily basis – with the help of others – of course.

Leandi Cameron is a South African award-winning journalist and newspaper editor. She is also co-owner of multi-disciplinary company House of LeaVik. Her debut novel, A Tale of the Other Kind: A Therian Novel, was released in October 2012, and is available on Amazon in paperback and ebook format. For more information, visit www.leandicameron.com.

If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future? This is quite a hard question – I would love to see the future, the changes that have happened, and how ‘gracefully’ we have ruined our beautiful world. I would love to see how technology has changed our lives and if we have taken our own advice on environmental issues and stopped the war on terror. I would love to see whether people in South Africa have finally come to a point where they can truly tolerate each other, and that Nelson Mandela’s ideals have finally made its way into our hearts, lives and future.

I would love to see whether Rhino’s are still alive or extinct, and whether we were able to stop the illegal trade of their beautiful tusks. All of these things are definitely issues that I would love to have a glimpse in on, but what I would love the most, is to go back in time. I am fascinated with so many eras gone by. Our history is what makes us; it is what forms us, and it is what will dictate our future and, therefore, it is the best place to start – at the beginning of everything. How fantastic would it be to go back in time; to see the earth form; to see people live in caves; to see the Ice Age; to see people living in Venice, dressed in masks and beautiful attire and living lives of promiscuity? How fantastic would it be to really be present, absorb all of those era’s, create memories and bring them back into today’s reality and be able to make them true, once again, and writing a book about my ‘travels’ back in time. No truer account of history can be told than that of someone who has lived it. I am fascinated with history. It truly is what has formed us today.

If you were a superhero what would your name be? Atheria

If you could have any superpower what would you choose? I would be able to change forms – which means, I could be anything or anyone I want aka a shapeshifter.

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Rum and Raisin is quite nice, but I don’t eat ice cream all that much – I am more of a chocolate kind of girl.

If you could meet one person who has died who would you choose? I wouldn’t want to ‘meet’ anyone per se, but I would love to see my father again.

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Not big on breakfast, but if I do eat breakfast, I love to indulge myself into bran muffins.

One food you would never eat? Asparagus – absolutely disgusting.

Pet Peeves? People who can’t write but who call themselves writers. Writing is a form of art, and some people misuse it, don’t respect it, and never realise the true power of it. I also despise nasty people. Because I was bullied throughout my primary and high-school years, I absolutely stand firmly against bullies. Even among adults bullies still exist, and nothing makes me so unhappy as seeing or experiencing someone look down upon others or treat them as lesser. We are all equal, and we all deserve to be treated with respect.

Skittles or M&Ms? Definitely Skittles.

Stacking the Shelves, IMMB, Showcase Sunday, The Sunday Post Mailbox Memes

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews,  check it out and sign up  here

IMMB was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Check it out and sign up here
Showcase Sunday is hosted by Books, Biscuits and Tea, check it out and sign up here
The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~ It's a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.

What I got:

Empty source: Simon Pulse

Walton, K.M. *

Awake at Dawn (Shadow Falls, #2) source: bought

Collateral source: Atria via Edelweiss

Hopkins, Ellen*

The Darkest Minds source: Disney Hyperion my review HERE

Bracken, Alexandra *

Brittle source: gift from author

Calher, Jordan

David: Seeking a Heart Like His source: bought for bible study

Moore, Beth

My week:
I had a good thanksgiving with my family and I am celebrating my daughter's birthday today.

Last Week on the blog:
Review: Collateral by Ellen Hopkins
Waiting on Wednesday 11/21
Review: The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Coming up on the blog:

Book Tour: A Tale of the Other Kind by Leandi Cameron
Review: Awake at Dawn by C.C. Hunter
$100 Amazon Giftcard giveaway by Mary Ting: The Crossroads Saga

Waiting on Wednesday 11/28

$100 Giveaway: Amazon or PayPal from Keegan's Chronicles

Giveaway: Brittle and interview with Jordan Calher

What are you reading? Any of my books new to you or have you read any of my books? If so, what did you think?
Also, feel free to link up your blog and mailbox post.

Review: Collateral by Ellen Hopkins

 
Collateral by Ellen Hopkins

The gripping story of a woman torn between love for her boyfriend, a dedicated Marine deployed to Afghanistan, and the resentment she has for the war that is tearing their lives apart.
Written in Hopkins’s stunning poetic verse style, Collateral centers on Ashley, an MFA student at San Diego State University. She grew up reading books and never dreamed she would become a military wife. One night she meets a handsome soldier named Cole. He doesn’t match the stereotype of the aggressive military man. He’s passionate and romantic. He even writes poetry. Their relationship evolves into a sexually charged love affair that goes on for five years and survives four deployments. Cole wants Ashley to marry him, but when she meets another man, a professor with similar pursuits and values, she begins to see what life might be like outside the shadow of war.
Collateral captures the hearts of the soldiers on the battlefield and the minds of the friends, family, and lovers they leave behind. Those who remain at home may be far away from the relentless, sand-choked skies of the Middle East and the crosshairs of a sniper rifle, but just the same, all of them will sacrifice a part of themselves for their country and all will eventually ask themselves if the collateral damage caused by war is worth the fight.

Publishes in US: Nov 6th 2012
Source: Atria via. Edelweiss
Series? No
Discoved from Annette at Annette's Book Spot

BUY THE BOOK
 Book Depository


     Holy wow. This was my first Hopkins book and let me just say that I was blown away. This is a story that packs quite a punch and left me reeling. She totally surprised me with the ending but yet I was happy and broken hearted all at the same time.
    Collateral is def a book for mature teens and if it is not classified as.new adult I think it is a perfect candidate. There is more steamy scenes than I am used to with traditional ya but I think it was still in good taste and fit with the tone of the story. There is also drinking and sinew pretty disturbing scenes but I think it use one of the most realistic stories I have read about soldiers. I think that it was said best though that you can't really understand unless you are a soldier or the emotional toll that it takes on a family or loves one that the soldier leaves behind.
      Ashley the main character took me on quite a journey with her and it was an emotional one. I really felt for her and understood the places her mind took her. She was brave for the decisions she made and I appreciate the emotional cost of the decisions she made and the growth that I saw in her how she loves Cole, finds herself and ultimately makes the best choices for herself no matter how.

    Bottom line: Hard hitting, emotional story about a soldier at war and the woman he leaves behind. 

My question to you, my lovely readers:
Is men (or women whatever way you swing) in uniform your type?

Waiting on Wednesday 11/21

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. I also feature books that may have already released, but I am anxiously waiting to read.

This week, I'm featuring:

The Program (The Program, #1)

Young, Suzanne *

With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.
Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in.
And The Program is coming for them.

Releases: April 30th 2013

What are you waiting on?