Cover Reveal: Casted by Sonya Loveday

Casted 

by Sonya Loveday

Expected Release Date: June 7

“My mind absorbed everything in the spell book I clutched tightly to me. Pages ruffled inside of my head, urging me to remember things and then to forget them. Voices chanted with tempo rising at the breaking points of pain until the book vanished and words to an ancient spell scribed across my arms. Each stroke brought blood to the surface, imprinting words I could not read; words that would forever change who I was.”

Jade had spent the majority of her life running from the Triad. The Triad, are a powerful group, who would stop at nothing to obtain Jade and the missing spell book for leader, Lorenzo’s, nefarious plans. And now that she has absorbed the highly coveted magic contained inside the missing book, there is nowhere left for her to hide.

With the help of her friends, Jade steps out from the shadows and learns how to fight back. But no one is prepared for Elinor-the woman bound inside of the book that’s trapped in Jade’s mind. Now she not only needs to protect herself from the Triad, but from what’s hiding inside her mind as well.

Jade never expected the answer to it all would revolve around love.

Edge is dark, mysterious, and a sworn member of the Triad. He also hides a secret past that threatens the thin line he walks between good and evil. Lives are at stake when Jade and Edge’s two worlds collide. Can Jade learn to trust him when he says he is her pre-ordained and vows to do everything he can to protect her? But more importantly, can she trust herself and the woman in her mind?

 Sonya Loveday, first and foremost is a reader, an avid one. It is of that love that brought her to the realization that this was the answer to the nagging persistent feeling that ‘there’s got to be something more’.
The dream came alive in 2009 when she purchased her laptop and began the tedious step of becoming a published author.
When she’s not reading, she’s writing. When she’s not writing, she’s reading. And when she’s not doing either of those things she’s sleeping, shuttling her children back and forth to school, letting the dogs and cats in and out of the house for the umpteenth time in the last hour and dreaming of a clean house.

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Residue Blog Tour: Review & Giveaway!

Thanks to AToMR for the opportunity to participate in the Residue Tour and working with my while I am sick. Also, a huge Thanks to the author, Laury Falter, for providing the review copy! And to my readers, Thanks for reading and I hope you like Residue too & make sure to check out the 2 Giveaways!!

Residue
(Residue, #1)
by Laury Falter
Published: April 13, 2012
Format: eBook ~300 pages

Book Blurb:
When Jocelyn Weatherford is whisked away from a preparatory academy in upstate New York to live with her extended family in New Orleans, she is unprepared to encounter the dangers awaiting her. Yet even as she is thrust into an unfamiliar world of witches and voodoo magic, the greatest threat of all may be the boy she has fallen for.

While handsome and charming, he is also a Caldwell... a member of the family the Weatherford's have been feuding with for centuries. As their forbidden love grows it becomes the volatile spark that forever changes their world and everyone in it.

Amazon   -   Barnes & Noble

Residue is one of those books that I am always on the look-out for. Witchcraft, Voodoo, Romance... everything I love to read about! And what I found was something I didn't quite expect. I have not read Ms. Falter's Guardian books, but I must go back and read them now because I feel like I am missing something. But, despite that what I found in Residue is a fun plot, a likable protagonist, and a nice take on magic.

After Jocelyn has a seriously weird thing happen to her in class, she is sent to live with family in New Orleans. However, her family in New Orleans are witches and apparently she is too, but no one decided to tell her anything about it until now. Curiosity peaked for me when I found out that she was never told, but her cousins were. Why? What makes Jocelyn so special? So many measures are taken: the boarding school, the secrets, the spies... Again, why? I had to find out! But don't fret, I'm not giving anything away here!

The one thing she is told is to stay away from the Caldwells; they are the Weatherfords' family enemies and that she should never go near any of them. Kinda hard to do when they attend the same magic school, but they generally keep their distances from each other unless it is to start a battle. However, Jocelyn has never met any of the Caldwells and wouldn't know one even if she did. Which leads to the next part of the story: Jameson. A Caldwell. But when Jocelyn met him, she had no idea and well, she sort of fell for him. I love it! Romeo and Juliet at Hogwarts! And not only do the families not like the idea of even a friendship - love? - out of the question. And what is worse? The Sevens, the higher power of the magical have something against them being together too and have sent down Vires to keep them apart.

Residue is full of laugh-out-loud moments, action, and magic. I found the book a very fun and quick read despite its 300 pages. I like that it is a series and I can keep reading about the characters and see how everything eventually unfolds - those are definitely on my TBR pile! I really liked Jocelyn, she is a girl who stands up for everyone and is genuine in her intentions. I would liked to see more of Jameson as a whole, but it is just the first book. The writing was done well, no egregious errors that made me stop reading, and I was easily drawn into their world. Overall, it is a great book for YA Paranormal and Urban Fantasy fans and for anyone who wants a little magic in their lives!

FTC Advisory: I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review as part of a blog tour. No backroom deals or whispered promises were made.

Laury Falter is the author of the bestselling Guardian Trilogy. She writes young adult paranormal romances and urban fantasy when she's not taking her stray dogs for a walk or enjoying a date night with her husband.
Laury has released two series, the Guardian Trilogy and the Residue Series (a spinoff of the Guardian Trilogy books), and is currently releasing her third series, the Apocalypse Chronicles.

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Crimson Flames Blog Tour: Review & Interview w/ Ashley Robertson

Crimson Flames
(Crimson Series, #2) 
by Ashley Robertson
Publication Date: February 25, 2013
Genre: New Adult Paranormal Romance
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Book Blurb:
Half-vampire Abby Tate is determined to learn more about the sorceress powers that were awakened inside her when she was turned into a vampire—making her a whole new hybrid species. There’s a group of rogue vamps banding together and forming a Resistance against the vampire governing body, The Head Council, and Abby’s newly discovered powers are the key to the Council’s victory. Now the Resistance will do anything possible to remove the hybrid threat, and with no other options, Abby is forced to rely on the aid of the Council, yet can she trust the very vampires that hunt for her human lover? And even worse, can she fight the unwelcome attraction that’s growing between her and one of those ancient vampire rulers?

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Action, adventure, magic, and page melting scenes are what awaits in Crimson Flames. Abby is back and better than ever! In Crimson Groves Abby learned that she is not quite "normal" and she is bound and determined to figure out what that means. She was turned into a vampire (against her will - BTW) and then learned that she has powers- and that she is the only one of her type. Not to mention the people who want her dead or to use her powers for themselves. Abby's journey of self-discovery reveals many things not only about herself, but about those around her. I love that she is able to take whatever is thrown at her; she is one of my favorite female heroines - think Lara Croft and Selene from Underworld - yeah, she is that cool!

In CG, Abby learned that Tyler, her human friend that she is in love with, betrayed her multiple times and was working for Bronx, the evil vampire that turned Abby. He keeps insisting that he is innocent and runs. I don't like Tyler and never really did and finally Abby can see him for who he is and let him go and move on. With the help of Stone and Tristan, she attempts to find answers from the Vampire Council. Abby is asked by the almighty Vampire Council to help them fight against the Resistance (the rogues Bronx was with). Abby is not sure what to do or if she should get in the middle of a war, but they put her in the middle and she is constantly trying to stay alive because she has the power to defeat the Resistance, like it or not.

However, meeting with the Council isn't all bad; Abby is reconnected with her mother's spirit through an Elder on the Council. Although Abby isn't sure about trusting her, but she realizes that her mom only wants to help her and show her her true potential. Not only does she meet her mom, but Trace is back in the picture *swoon* and she finds herself attracted to him, but does not jump into his arms right away. I really love Trace, he is patient and kind and so hot! Abby is on a journey to find out who she is and she takes her time and learns who is trustworthy and who is not. I commend her for wanting to do things on her own and not be rescued by a man even if they are all sexy men who are ready to help her whenever...

I have read all of Ashley Robertson's books and she is a wonderful writer. I can see the growth and maturity in her writing between Crimson Groves and Crimson Flames. She is able to create stories that take on so many levels and clearly ties everything together. There is never a dull moment in Crimson Flames and I didn't want it to end. I love this series and anyone who likes vampires, magic, hot men, and a strong female will love this book. There are enough twists and turns to keep you guessing and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what Abby will do next - there will be a third book, right??

FTC Advisory: I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review as part of a blog tour. No backroom deals or whispered promises were made.

1. First, a quickie: give us the genre of your Crimson series and a tagline in 30 words or less.
A MUST READ paranormal romance series.
2. What inspired you to write the Crimson series, specifically?
I’ve always loved vampires so when Abby kept pestering me with her unique story, I knew I needed to type it up right away.
3. Give us an interesting fun fact or a few about your latest book Crimson Flames.
There’s more ass kicking, more hot-n-spicy romance, and lots of action-packed scenes.

4. Who is your favorite character in the series thus far? Why? Is it the same character from both books? Currently my fave character is Abby. She’s stronger now that she’s embraced the fact that she’s a vampire hybrid and she isn’t taking any more crap from anyone. She’s made some tough decisions that could end up getting her killed, but she doesn’t let her fear stand in the way of doing what’s right. I’m very proud of how Abby has become more confident in herself and her powers, and she’s gotten a lot feistier too.

5. Who is your least favorite character? Has it changed from book one to book two??
In both books, Tyler has driven me absolutely crazy. I constantly want to kick his ass.

6. What books and authors have most influenced your life and writing?
Richelle Mead, Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress series, Karen Marie Moning, Dean Koontz, Laurell K. Hamilton, Kresley Cole’s Arcana series, Nalini Singh

7. If you could be a supernatural, what kind would you be and why?
Definitely a vampire. Simply because I’m obsessed with them.
8. If you could change ONE thing about your novel Crimson Flames, what would it be? Why?
I’m really happy with the way Crimson Flames turned out. However, there were a few things about Crimson Groves that bothered me and I’m working with my editor to make those changes and re-release the new version next month (April 2013)

9. What is the hardest part of writing?
Editing.

10. Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?
I could go on forever here and totally make this question a guest blog post. But in an effort to keep things short, here are a few important bullet points that are a MUST:

1. Finish your manuscript! Whether you want to publish traditionally or self-pub, you’ve got to have a completed book on your hands before you can do anything else.

2. Hire a professional editor! Not your friend! You want someone that will shoot straight with you and not give a damn if they hurt your feelings because at the end of the day, you want your book as good as it can be for your readers, right? I use Stephen Delaney with Close Reader Editing Services and he’s pretty badass. 

3. If you’re not a graphic designer and can’t manipulate artwork on a computer, then hire a cover designer! People really do judge a book by its cover, so you need it to look as good on the outside as it is on the inside. I use Claudia with Phatpuppyart.com and she can do some pretty amazing things with graphics.

If you want a sneak peak at chapter one go here!

Ashley Robertson resides in sunny Orlando, Florida and loves reading and writing about everything urban fantasy and paranormal romance. When she is not writing you'll find her spending time with family and friends, training in her home gym, traveling and exploring new places, drinking fine red wines, and making gourmet coffees with her Nespresso machine. Visit her website to learn about her upcoming releases, guest blog posts, and featured giveaways at: AshleyRobertsonBooks.com

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"Waiting On" Wednesday: Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea & Born of Illusion

"Waiting On" Wednesday (WoW) is a weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. This week's book that I am eagerly anticipating is...

I have two books this week. I can't get either one out of my head and I want to read both of them so bad! I even have some cool ideas of what to do when I review them for giveaways or just for fun! Plus both covers are gorgeous. I am on a kick of black and white and red. So here they are:

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea

(Between, #1)

by April Genevieve Tucholke

Expected Publication Date: August 15, 2013
Published by Dial

You stop fearing the devil when you’re holding his hand…

Nothing much exciting rolls through Violet White’s sleepy, seaside town…until River West comes along. River rents the guesthouse behind Violet’s crumbling estate, and as eerie, grim things start to happen, Violet begins to wonder about the boy living in her backyard. Is River just a crooked-smiling liar with pretty eyes and a mysterious past? Or could he be something more? Violet’s grandmother always warned her about the Devil, but she never said he could be a dark-haired boy who takes naps in the sun, who likes coffee, who kisses you in a cemetery...who makes you want to kiss back. Violet’s already so knee-deep in love, she can’t see straight. And that’s just how River likes it.

Blending faded decadence and the thrilling dread of gothic horror, April Genevieve Tucholke weaves a dreamy, twisting contemporary romance, as gorgeously told as it is terrifying—a debut to watch.

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Born of Illusion

by Teri Brown

Expected Publication Date: June 11, 2013
Published by Balzer & Bray

Anna Van Housen is thirteen the first time she breaks her mother out of jail. By sixteen she’s street smart and savvy, assisting her mother, the renowned medium Marguerite Van Housen, in her stage show and séances, and easily navigating the underground world of magicians, mediums and mentalists in 1920’s New York City. Handcuffs and sleight of hand illusions have never been much of a challenge for Anna. The real trick is keeping her true gifts secret from her opportunistic mother, who will stop at nothing to gain her ambition of becoming the most famous medium who ever lived.

But when a strange, serious young man moves into the flat downstairs, introducing her to a secret society that studies people with gifts like hers, he threatens to reveal the secrets Anna has fought so hard to keep, forcing her to face the truth about her past. Could the stories her mother has told her really be true? Could she really be the illegitimate daughter of the greatest magician of all?

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I think that both of these books look amazing! The covers are striking and mysterious and their descriptions leave me wanting more.

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea sounds like the perfect blend of horror and romance with a twist. I love Gothic horror; they bring a feeling that other books can't quite touch. Throw in a supernatural element - such as the Devil - and you have something truly terrifying and enticing.

Born of Illusion has some of my most favorite elements: magic, the age of spiritualism, the roaring 20s, secret societies, and a mystery. What is there not to like? Although very different, just reading the synopsis for Born of Illusion evokes the feelings I had while reading The Night Circus, which is one of my favorite books of all time.

I could go on and on as to why I want to read these books, but I will leave my read thoughts for my reviews when I get my hands on them.

What to you think? Do either of these books sound good to you? Will you be adding them to your TBR list?

The Thirteenth by G.L. Twynham Blog Tour: Review, Excerpt & Giveaway!

The Thirteenth
(The Thirteenth, #1)
by G.L. Twynham
Publication Date: November 20, 2009
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: YA Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Formats Available: eBook, Audio Book, Paperback ~336 pages

Book Blurb: Imagine starting at the end and finishing back at the beginning. This is the story of a teenage girl called Valerie Saunders who is about to be thrown through time and space. Being bestowed with abilities beyond her wildest nightmares, she discovers that she not only has to deal with turning eighteen, her first job and an unwanted tattoo, but also magical powers and intense urges to fall in love. She envisaged she would spend her life blending into the scenery, not blowing it up!

Val has a calling, but which side is dialling her number?

Amazon Kindle - Amazon Print - Amazon Audio Edition

Valerie Saunders (Val) is about to turn eighteen and she just got her first job working for an antique/first edition bookstore. She also starts having vivid dreams and mysterious pain. Then a tattoo just happens to appear on her arm on her eighteen birthday: the Zodiac symbols in a circle with a backwards 'y' with a dot above it in the middle. Then after an encounter at the shop, she realizes she has powers. Val has no idea what is going on so she turns to her best friend Delta and the owner of a tattoo parlor for help (who she doesn't know). No one knows what is going on but they will try to find answers, but what they get are more questions. Why is this happening? Where did the powers come from? Who is behind it all?

The beginning of The Thirteenth started out with a bang and I was hooked. Everything that happened to Val came at a frantic pace and just as one episode ended another began. I really liked the premise of the story: a girl with powers that found her that she can't run away from, but there were time that the plot became somewhat predictable. Each challenge she faces is more extreme than the next, but each trial is so short and could have been better explained. It isn't until the end that I am completely surprised by the events. I am baffled by who the bad guys are! I am even more surprised at the origins of Val's powers - sorry no spoilers!

The characters are likeable, but not quite fleshed out. I would have liked to see more interaction with her Scooby Gang. Then there was the fact that Val seems to trust nearly everyone she meets with her secret (except her parents). Then they all turned around and believed everything she said - not quite realistic, but it did make it easier for the story to progress. I know that this is fiction, but you still want things to feel like they could happen. Val also accepted her "powers" really fast, but when everything keeps getting thrown at her one right after another, she would have to acclimate quickly. My biggest pet peeve was the grammar and copy editing. I don't mind a few mistakes here and there, but when they are so distracting that it pulls me from the story, that is when I get annoyed. The Kindle formatting isn't the best either so you have to be hyper aware of who is speaking as there aren't correct paragraph cuts.

Despite my misgivings, I could not put the book down. I had to see what was to come of Val and her friends and see who it was that kept tormenting her. There are some really good things about The Thirteenth. I like the author's ability to add humor to dire situations and her metaphors and sarcasms are hilarious. I also really enjoyed the tiny hints that are left throughout the book. Looking back I can see how well she tied certain aspects together, but until you read the ending they don't always make sense. So, the ending is a complete turning point and I am excited to see what will happen next. Not only were there huge revelations, but the whole genre of the book expanded! There are three books out in the series - The Thirteenth, The Turncoats, and Nyteria Rising - and one due out this spring. I will definitely be reading on to see more of Val's adventures!

FTC Advisory: I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review as part of a blog tour. No backroom deals or whispered promises were made.

Chapter 1

The Tattoo

A young woman stood alone looking up at the night sky, a cool breeze effortlessly caressing her slim frame as darkness closed around her. At long last it would be her turn to be part of something that had been her destiny since birth.

She moved on, passing the pond; she caught her reflection in the water and smiled. The time had arrived; the moon had reached the tops of the trees. On this particular evening, the shadows of the dense woods, mixed with the bruised sky made the adventure that lay ahead seem all the more exciting.

As she left the village behind and made her way into the woodland, her body filled with anticipation. She began to run.

Knowing instinctively where to go, she weaved like a needle in and out of the undergrowth, dodging the trees as if they were merely smoke trails rising in front of her.

She was moving swiftly when an unfamiliar sound suddenly stopped her dead in her tracks. A strange crackling in the air made every hair on the back of her neck stand on end. Something was very wrong. She span around, trying to find where it was coming from, but soon realized it was everywhere. Then, as suddenly as it had started, it stopped.

She had cautiously started to move forward again, when the silence was shattered once more by another wave of sound. In the confusion, her foot caught under a loose tree root, causing her to fall awkwardly into a pile of leaves. Before she had time to stand up, she heard violent screams coming from the distance. These weren’t joyful cries; the cries of pleasure and happiness she had been expecting. These turned her blood cold and left her paralyzed where she lay on the wet forest floor, her heart pounding.

After a few seconds, she gathered enough courage to slowly lift herself up and move forward again. She was suddenly very frightened, aware of the risk she was taking just by being there. She darted to an old oak tree, hiding for a moment in the shelter of its huge trunk.

Cautiously, she edged around it. Everything was quiet again so she leant the top half of her body out, to see if it was safe. In that split second a ball of light came towards her, travelling at amazing speed and growing as it came, until it seemed to be the size of a mountain.

When it hit her, its power engulfed her whole body and she was instantly lifted off the ground. She screamed helplessly as it raised her into the treetops.

Her ears filled with a piercing noise, like nothing she had ever heard before. Her whole body felt like it was burning up, yet still she kept rising and rising, until she was high above the trees.

Then the light and noise stopped as quickly and as it had started. Her upward flight came to a violent halt, and she began to fall. As she tumbled through the trees, the thick branches scratched aggressively at her clothes and face. The ground came towards her at terrifying speed. The scream that was struggling to escape her was silenced when she hit the ground with tremendous force. Her body filled with pain, the taste of warm blood filled her mouth, and she slipped into unconsciousness.

Born in Wellingborough in 1972, Georgia was brought up with her two older brothers in a sleepy Leicestershire village until at the age of fifteen, her parents decided to move abroad, taking her with them. A new country and a new language helped her come out of her shell and for eleven years, she lived and worked on the beautiful island of Menorca.
Georgia wrote short stories and poetry from an early age but her real passion for writing didn’t truly emerge until she was 31. Writing for her own web site and articles for magazines helped to support her and her daughter. After meeting her now fiancé, she was given the encouragement and opportunity to write full-time and the rest is history.
Georgia felt there was a need for a strong British female heroine. She also wanted a main character that had a normal family, with problems that most teenagers/young adults in this country might be experiencing and could relate to. And so Val Saunders, daughter to Mike and Susan Saunders, was born.
Georgia spends time with her daughter in their home in Leicestershire and her life is filled with promoting her books, writing and walking her dog Milly, the Jack Russell.

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The Tragedy of Knowledge Tour

The Tragedy of Knowledge
(The Resistance Trilogy, #3)
by Rachael Wade
Publication Date: October 25, 2012
Format Reviewed: eARC (provided by author)

Synopsis:
The Battle Comes Home.

After arranging a hopeful but risky alliance during their visit to the Amaranthian realm, Camille, Gavin, and the resistance don’t have much time to recover from their failed mission. Forced to create a new strategy to achieve their goal, they embark on a different mission—one that possibly holds the missing key to their quest for victory, and their deadliest one yet.

As they attempt round two to restore peace and freedom for their kind, they must rely on help from the living, the bayous, and beyond to decipher allies from enemies, good magic from bad, and whether the source claiming to lead the way to their destiny can be trusted. Racing against the clock to solve the mystery of their fate, they find the battle has come right to their doorstep, and this time, everyone must pay a price.

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My Thoughts:

The Showdown has begun. Everything that has happened in Amaranth and The Gates is now coming to a final and epic ending. With no way known to defeat the hybrid vampires, Gavin and Camille have little time to figure out what to do in order to defeat the evil King Gerard. Despite the fact that Gerard took Gavin's and Cam's main information source, Camille starts getting weird visions. Hoping that they will lead them to another source, they have to trust that these visions are helpful. And where the visions lead? Well, that is another place entirely. Cam and Gavin have to try to let someone else help them, but can they be trusted? 

With witches now on the duo's side, they must find out what part the Book of the Ancients will play in breaking the curse. However, they did not anticipate what parts they will have to play in the finale. Now doubtful of the outcome, Camille wonders if she will be able to help with the prophecy and end the curse or will everything be all for nothing? And after seeing Gerard and being given an ultimatum, they are as unsure as ever, but they have a plan and hope that it will work.

The ending to The Tragedy of Knowledge is heartbreaking and makes the title very apropos. I wanted to see something different, but everything was brought together and the finale was exciting and overwhelming. I was very happy to see that some of the vampires got what was coming to them (I won't name names) and that there were more twists and turns, surprises, and secrets revealed. Another thing I really love is that magic played a big part throughout the series. I love the idea of hoodoo and vampires and all the possibilities that it creates. And in this book, you won't be disappointed - magic is around every corner!

Wow! I could not put the entire series down. I read all three book within two days and did not want to come up for air! Rachael Wade is a master at world-building and she has created a story that is not only a great read, but that delves deeper into faith, magic, strength and friendship. The characters are genuine and are written so well that each person you read about, a bond is created. Good or evil, each character provokes emotion and one character was so creepy he gave me actual goosebumps. I am sad that this story is ending, but I am looking forward to what Ms. Wade has for us next. She is an amazing author and her books become a part of you. I recommend The Resistance Trilogy to everyone!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

FTC Advisory: I was given a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review as part of a blog tour. No backroom deals or whispered promises were made.

Excerpt from The Tragedy of Knowledge:

***SPOILER ALERT: This excerpt includes spoilers from The Gates, book 2 of the series. If you haven’t read book 2 yet, you can pick it up here.***

 “All right. Look,” he said. “I’m going to come at you again from the same angle—when you’re not expecting it—and I want you to deflect my strike this time. All it takes is one stab of this silver, and you’re instantly slowed down, do you understand? It can mean the difference between living and dying. One strike will make it easier for your attacker to land another strike, and then another. Each one making you weaker. Which means seconds until you’re completely incapacitated. Then they can do whatever the hell they want to you. Think of it as paralyzing venom.”

“Gavin. I got it. We’ve been over this.” I pulled my hair tighter in the ponytail and wrapped it with an elastic tie, positioning myself in front of him again, knees bent, arms up, stance ready.

“Then get it together. I need you focused.”

“Did I mention I really don’t like your bossy side?”

“Did I mention I really hate that you don’t do as you’re told?”

He met my stance with an amused grin, rubbing his hands over his shoulders to push up his sleeves. My gaze caught the movement, zoning in on his defined arms. I swallowed, and managed, “Do as I’m told?”

“Uh huh.” He shuffled closer with slow, easy steps. “Out here, I’m not your husband. I’m not your lover. I’m your trainer. It’s my responsibility to show you how to defend yourself. And it’s your job to listen.”

“I am listening. You just make it difficult … to stay focused.”

“Oh, yeah?” He reached out and brushed a strand of hair from my forehead, letting his fingers trail slowly over my skin while he peered down at me, licking his lips. “Why do I make it difficult for you to stay focused, love? Are you having a hard time keeping up?” Pushing the hair back behind my ear, he leaned in farther, grazing his nose against my cheek, smirking when he heard me exhale a low, shaky breath.

Damn him. “You know why.”

“Do I?” His grin widened.

“You do. And I won’t give you the satisfaction of hearing it come out of my mouth.”

“Cam,” he dragged his lips across my cheekbone to the base of my ear, “I can feel it, too. You don’t have to say it, because I’m in tune with your body like never before. We’re on the same level now. All that pent-up energy, trying to claw its way out of you …” Nipping my earlobe, he let out a low chuckle and skimmed his hand underneath the hem of my shirt, tracing the waistband of my jeans with rough, teasing fingers. My entire body came alive at his touch, blood singing, knees quaking, mouth watering. His scent was divine and his lips called to me like some wicked, elemental magic.

He knew exactly what he was doing. The bastard.

More than willing to play along, I inhaled a sharp breath and reciprocated, dragging my fingers down his torso, then back up, stopping just above his navel. His mouth still near the base of my ear, his breath hitched against my skin at the contact. Encouraged, I headed south again, rubbing and teasing, feeling him grow beneath my fingers, tilting my head to the side to expose my neck. He moaned and grazed his teeth over my shoulder and down to my collarbone, dropping his blade to the ground with a loud thud.

“You make me crazy. Do you know that?” He gripped my hips and pressed me against him. “Do you feel what you do to me?”

“It’s too intense,” I whispered, my voice breathy. I was already panting when he moved to the other side of my neck, nudging my head to tilt it in the opposite direction.

“I warned you. You had a taste back in Amaranth, right after you changed.” He started on the buttons of my shirt.

“But the pull is even harder to fight now. When you touch me … I have no self-restraint. Sometimes I feel like … like I can’t handle all the extra energy. Like I’ll detonate if I don’t act.”

“That’s part of the fun.”

“Gav … we’re in an open field.”

“Hasn’t stopped you yet.” He popped two more buttons. “I know you want me. Just relax and let me make you feel good, baby. That panic lessens when you give it an outlet.”

Shutting my eyes tight, I leaned up on tiptoe and wrapped my arms around his neck to kiss him hard, then released him and slowly sashayed in the other direction, challenging him from underneath coy lashes, the need to run singing in my veins. “Fine. And I know you want me, but you’ll have to catch me first.”

His mouth fell open and his brows raised, a surprised smile pulling at the corner of his lips; he was ready to take the bait. I surged forward into a turbo-charged sprint, clear across the field toward the woods ahead, feeling him feet behind me, fast on my trail. I blew through the edge of the brush and into the thick marsh, lifting off my feet into flight, deeper and deeper into the bayou.

Other Books in The Resistance Trilogy:

About the Author:

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Rachael Wade is the Amazon #1 bestselling author of the paranormal romance series, The Resistance Trilogy, and the contemporary romance, Preservation. When she's not writing, she's busy learning French, watching too many movies, and learning how to protect wildlife and stop animal cruelty. Visit her at www.RachaelWade.com and www.LightsOnOutreach.com, or come chat with her on Twitter via @RachaelWade.

Bruxa: The Secret Within - Tour & Contest

Thank you for visiting my stop on the Bruxa Tour hosted by Bewitching Book Tours. Please check out my review as well as an excerpt from the novel. Also, a Thank You to A.F. Costa for providing the the code for the book to review. To celebrate the tour, Bruxa will be on sale for $1.99 on Smashwords with the code: XD36B. In addition, there is a contest for a custom made bracelet! See below for details on where to go to enter!

Bruxa: The Secret Within
by A.F. Costa
Published: April 25, 2012
Genre: Paranormal YA
Paperback: 400 pages
ISBN-10: 1463704275
ISBN-13: 978-1463704278

Format Reviewed: eBook (code provided by author)

Synopsis:

Gabriella is no ordinary seventeen-year-old girl. She is the last to carry her mother’s rare bloodline of Bruxa, an ancient secret order of witches.

Settling into her late father’s estate, she is welcomed by a phantom presence that resurrects within her, a secret curse her father took to his grave ten years ago. Gabriella finally finds a sense of belonging and gains the affections of high school’s most desired boy, Joey Davale. Her newly found life becomes derailed when she learns her whole existence has been a lie, and the boy she’s falling for, is designed to destroy the very thing growing inside of her.

Forced to conceal this truth, Gabriella embarks on a secret life that will drive her into the arms of Alvero, the embodiment of her darkest fear. Her newly found heritage traps her in a dangerous web of lies between two worlds and two loves. Her life will become more dangerous than she ever imagined. As the age-old battle between witches and vampires collide, will she fall prey to her heart or welcome the predator inside?

The Intense and stylized, A.F.Costa’s debut is an alluring live wire full of intrigue and forbidden love. Bruxa: the secret within, powerful vision of witches and vampires will challenge your understanding and leave you craving more.

Smashwords  Amazon

My Thoughts:

Gabriella is sent to live with her Godmother while her mother makes last arraignments with her latest sale. She finally gets to attend a normal school with both boys and girls. Previously she only attended an all girls Catholic boarding school and has had no social interaction with boys. Now she lives next to one of the hottest guys in school, yet he seems to be completely put off by her. Not to mention that she may have outed her secret to him. Oops! But things are not always as they appear and she learns that Joey isn't as normal as she had thought. And come to find out, she isn't who she thought she was either.

Bruxa is a very original story. The author A.F. Costa has woven witches, vampires, Christianity, and the Knight's Templar together into something completely different from anything I have ever read. There aren't many books where the witches believe in God, but in Bruxa God created the witches for a very specific purpose. I had a hard time making this idea stick because it is just not done, but what Ms. Costa has written is definitely interesting and I kept reading.

I felt for Gabby as she came to terms with what she is and the secrets that were kept from her. She is a very naive character, but that just makes reading about her that much more fun. Seeing her fall for a guy for the first time was cute and you can't help but root for her. I don't know if I love Joey, I think there is more than he is letting on... As for Alvero, well you will have to find out for yourself.

There are a few issues with copy editing and formatting, mostly grammar issues with incorrect word usage i.e. whose instead of who's. And where there should be a break, it only changes paragraphs. I had to go back a few times to make sure I didn't miss something. However, the issues were minor and did not take away from the story.

I am looking forward to seeing what will happen when Gabby turns 18! I really enjoyed this unique take on witches and the paranormal genre. I am hoping that in book two there will be more magic and more romance!

★ ★ ★ ★ ½

FTC Advisory: I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review as part of a blog tour. No backroom deals or whispered promises were made.

An Alvero Exclusive:
I should have never tempted fate, like a magnetic pull, I had this eternal desire to see her in the flesh. It had been year since I last seen this child, the thought of Matthias creating life saved me from my never-ending darkness.

I could always sense her as I quietly watched from a distance, with her mother’s protective magic gone, I leaped at the chance to see her. I knew she had grown-up, nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to catch sight of. In all my 600 years I have never desired anything more, the very thing I use to hunt and kill has possessed me fully.

I can destroy her at any giving moment, but she welcomes me, it’s as if she hold my soul. She has bewitched me. Her very essence quenches my thirst and I have no desire to feed, I feel alive and human again, when I am near her. It kills me to hide in the shadows as another gains her affections, I hate that I can’t bring myself to face her. I fear she will remember, the night I first saw her 10 years ago, the night that forever changed our worlds.

Bruxa Playlist:

The Requiem- Linkin Park

Rusted Wheel- Silversun pickups

Secrets- OneRepublic

The Royal we- Silversun pickups

Dark side- Kelly Clarkson

Leave out all the rest- Linkin Park

Runaway – Linkin Park

Catch and Release - Silversun pickups

Valentine’s Day- Linkin Park

Contest!
Bruxa: The Secret Within Tour
Discover the Secret at www.af-costa.com for
Contest rules
Four lucky wins will receive one these custom-made Bracelets
Contest ends November 28 2012

Happy readings,
A.F.Costa

About the Author:

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A.F. Costa has been creating vivid, imaginary worlds before she could even pick up a book, so it was only natural for her to put a pen to paper the moment she learned to write. Growing up with rich Latin superstitions and strong spiritual beliefs sparked her interests for the paranormal world.

Captivating small audiences with her campfire stories resurrected her passion for writing, but seeing her same passions for reading and writing developing in her son has inspired her the most.

Toronto, Ontario-based stylist A.F.Costa has been showcasing her creative abilities for over sixteen years, working with some of the best in the industry. As it is with her visual creativity, A.F. Costa brings the same passion to her writing. In Bruxa: the Secret Within, you‘ll discover an innovative world of witches and vampires like no other, blending Latin, Portuguese and Hebrew folklore into a modern day love story with an unforgettable twist.