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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Cover Reveal: Crimson Flames by Ashley Robertson

Crimson Flames

(Crimson Groves, #2)

Expected Release: End of February, 2013

Synopsis:
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?

Haven't read Crimson Groves? Check out my review of the first book in the series here.

Chapter One Sneak Peek:

The Deal

MY STOMACH CLENCHED as I sensed the vampire’s approach. He was close. So close I could feel the thrum of his power vibrating along my skin. The hairs on the back of my neck rose, and I knew if I was going to use my power for defense, then I needed to bring it forth now. I closed my eyes, forcing myself to breathe as deeply as I could—which thankfully had gotten easier with practice. I focused on the energy inside me, willing it to the surface, and as I felt it swelling, building like an approaching storm, I threw out my hand, gripped Stone’s shirtsleeve, and urged him to the floor. “Get down! He’s here!”

Stone raked me with a look that told me he was not too pleased, but then fear swept over his face when he realized just how little time we had.

The wooden door to the pub suddenly burst open—bits of wood and dust raining down from the force. Even though Stone should’ve cowered behind me—since his gift of reading blood wasn’t something he could fight with—somehow he’d found some bravery and boldly stood by my side. Though I appreciated it, I didn’t like it, and desperately wished he had listened to me. But I couldn’t think about that and call forth the fire within me at the same time. So I pushed Stone to the back of my mind with the silent promise of dealing with him later. Then I returned my attention to the power building inside me. One last deep breath and my heart shuddered to life inside my chest, making a rhythmic pattern with my faux breathing. A tingling warmth spread from head to toe, then settled on my awaiting hands. Seconds later, there was a glowing orb of fire (about the size of a basketball) cupped inside my palms. And just as the vampire appeared through the settling fog, I called out, “Not another step, Tristan, or it will be your last!”

“I think you should reconsider your threat,” Tristan shot back. “We are on the same side.”

That I sincerely doubted, but I knew killing a member of the Head Council would definitely put me on the “Most Wanted” list. Which I might already be on, since I’d helped the human this vampire was here to claim escape.

“She’s not bluffing!” Stone said through a snarl. I wanted to glare him into silence, but I refused to take my eyes off of the vampire standing in the broken doorway, wearing a black Armani-looking suit—now lightly covered with dust. It was a custom for all members of the Head Council to wear black suits, but each of them would wear shoes and an undershirt of their own choosing. I guess it was a way to express their individual personalities. Yet this one seemed to express himself through his spiked, platinum blond hair, not the basic black undershirt and matching boots—which were much more boring compared to what I’d seen a few of the other Council members wearing. But this vampire was far from boring. He was a tracker for the Council—one of the best hunters on earth. And he was after my human boyfriend.

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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Review: Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson + Giveaway!!

Crimson Groves
(The Crimson series, #1)
by Ashley Robertson
Pubication Date: November 9, 2011
Formats: Paperback, eBook ~282 pages

Synopsis:
Abigail Tate was a normal human girl—until the day Bronx the vampire barges into her life and turns her against her will. Held captive while forced to deal with never-ending cravings for blood, Abby prays for a way to escape. Only when an opportunity arises, it’s with the aid of an innocent human named Tyler—except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby quickly learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can either help her or get her killed. Only Abby soon discovers that she is the one with the biggest secret of all. 
***June 2012 Extras added to the e-book version only (including the first chapter of the sequel Crimson Flames (book #2 of The Crimson Series)***

Cover: The cover is what caught my eye first. The girl on the front’s gaze pierces through you. I l also love the deep blues set against the oranges and deep crimson red. The cover was created by Phat Puppy Art and I have yet to see a cover from them that I don’t like.

My Thoughts:
Abigail Tate has been having a rough time seeing as her ex-boyfriend and her former BFF are canoodling, not to mention she was the one that caught them in the act. She is constantly walking around with a giant black cloud above her head. Things couldn’t get much worse for her, or so she thinks. After an encounter with the deceitful couple, Abby gets a crazed phone call from her father that left her when she was a child telling her that she is in danger. Baffled and a bit ticked off, she ignores his warnings. Enter Bronx, a smoldering hot guy that lures Abby back to his place where he then turns her into a vampire. Not only does he force immortality upon her, he is hell bent on holder her captive and making her love him.

Abby now is a prisoner and refuses Bronx’s advances. But when the chance comes up for her to leave, even if it is will him, she takes the chance to get some much needed air. They go to a bar called Pulse (nice name); a bar for vampires to drink blood from donors who get a rush in return. Here she meets Tyler and he helps her escape Bronx’s clutches and teaches her about abilities that she didn’t know she had. Abby is befriended by donor Lilly and bar owner, Stone; both of whom she may or may not be able to trust fully. But when both Tyler and Stone are falling for her and Bronx is still trying to find her Abby has to use all her wits and guile to keep herself safe. But betrayal is around every bend and Abby doesn’t know who she can trust, but can’t get by on her own.

This is Ashley Robertson’s first published book and a great introduction to her writing. I found her characters to be believable and likeable, well most of them, but I don’t’ want to give anything away… Abby is a realistic heroine, one that is unsure of herself, yes she whines a bit, but she learns and adapts along the way. I really like that there was no getting through to her by Bronx. I am kinda sick of the whole Stockholm Syndrome thing and Abby holds her ground. There is a love triangle between Abby, Tyler and Stone, but I am reserving judgment until the next book. Until then, I am just Team Abby. The one thing that I would have liked to see was just a bit more insight/backstory - whatever you want to call it. I also want to know more about the new world she has been thrust into, but I will have to wait until Crimson Rain.

Vampire lovers should definitely check out Crimson Groves. Ashley Robertson is great at giving readers imaginative stories, strong characters, and keeps you on your toes until the very end. What I like most about Ashley’s writing is that she gives characters real depth. I want to reach in and stake Bronx myself and not every writer can elicit such strong emotions. Bravo! Crimson Groves ended in a way to lead into a sequel, hopefully a series, where we can read more about Abby and her transformation. A captivating read which I could not put down!

Favorite Quote:
“My eyes were hot, dry, like Vegas heat in the summertime. The pressure got more intense. The heat grew thicker, hotter, suffocating. I couldn’t take it anymore. I screamed. I screamed again. Loud – so loud, my voice shrieked with raw fear.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ½

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

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Review: UnGuarded + Giveaway!

UnGuarded 
by Ashley Robertson
Publication Date: July 1, 2012
Formats Available: eBook ~245 pages


Synopsis: Guardian angel Selene was so close to becoming an archangel—the supreme of all beings—until she fell in love with Cole, a forbidden dark one. Once she discovers her vampire lover has been kidnapped and the only way to save him is by abandoning her number one priority—Caitlyn, her human charge—there really is only one answer in Selene’s mind, even though leaving Caitlyn unguarded will most likely cause Selene to fall from grace.
But her choice to save Cole doesn’t come without a price…and now Selene is racing against time to not only save her dark lover, but find a way to keep Caitlyn alive as well.
With the help of a new vampire ally, Luke, Selene will push her diminishing angel abilities to the point where her very existence lies in the balance. Now threatened with the chance of becoming a fallen angel or even dying, Selene can only pray she’ll have enough time—and good grace—to save the ones she loves. - from Goodreads


Cover: The cover of UnGuarded is so gorgeous. I love the ethereal glow radiating through the purples and the light from the heavens bursting through the clouds. I also like that you can somehow feel the sadness radiating from the girl sitting with her head bowed. Cover design by www.phatpuppyart.com

My Thoughts:
I won’t spend too much time giving the recap of events because the synopsis above gives the most important information already. Mini recap: Selene is a guardian angel. Her job - her existence - is to protect her charges from the darkness that encroaches daily. However, she has found herself loving a vampire, a big no no for those who work for the light. She has already been demoted once and has broken more rules than she can count. But what she doesn’t understand is why loving something – even something dark – could cause her to fall.

Love her or hate her, Selene is a memorable character. She is moral and selfless and loyal to a fault. Everything she does is for the love of someone else, even if it isn’t exactly “legal” for an angel. However, we see that even though she is full of love, it is a certain type of love has led her astray from what her true calling is. As an angel she is supposed to love everyone, but when she falls in-love with one person she starts neglecting her charge. She can’t grasp that even though her love for Cole feels so right that her actions have put someone else in danger. The old adage “The road to hell is paved with good intentions” describes Selene’s actions to a T. Every time she is told to do one thing, to be obedient, she does the exact opposite because she thinks she knows better than anyone else. She takes on a God complex and seems to think that she gets to decide everyone else’s fate because she can’t bear to lose them.

Ashley Robertson has created a world in which angels, demons, and vampires dwell. You don’t see this very often combined together. Usually it is either angels and demons or vampires and other supernaturals. The idea that everyone has both an angel and a demon following them at all times, while similar to the angel/demon on your shoulder, is made more real and that they are not just whispering things in ears, but can affect a person physically. I also liked the fact that there was a hierarchy and that there was a God they were accountable to and one that made the ultimate decisions. Not every angel book does this and I really like the fact that the world was based on the general biblical belief system and not a new mix of various pantheons. The one issue I had was the intermixing of the pronoun ‘him’ in italics. It is used not only for the God figure, but later for Luke or Cole and it was a tad confusing.

The relationships in UnGuarded were fascinating to say the least. I know that Selene loves Cole, but all we really get to see of them is through her memories and a few interactions so it was hard to love them as a couple. I found myself rooting for Luke even though I was never sure of his intentions. But I liked that Selene, though tempted, stayed true to her love for Cole. It is good to see that a female heroine can make a decision and not fall in love at first sight, or more aptly fall in lust. We also see that she never stops fighting or trying to find answers and she never stops to wallows in her own pity.

I would love to read a prequel or short story describing how Selene and Cole fell in love. Maybe then I would feel more for the couple. So far, Ashley is undecided if this will be a series, but I have hopes for more. The writing is well done and the editing is near flawless. I love books that are not only fun and entertaining, but I also love a book that makes you think and UnGuarded made me ponder the ideas of good vs. evil, heaven vs. hell, and how the choices we make affect others.

Favorite Quote: "Why was love so strong, so blinding, and yet so satisfying? Why do we risk everything we hold to be true in the name of love? When you know it's wrong, when you're certain it's not good for you, why is it still impossible to shut your feelings off?"

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

I recommend UnGuarded to anyone who loves Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, angels, and hot vampires!

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

Author Bio: Ashley Robertson resides in sunny Orlando, Florida and loves reading and writing about everything urban fantasy and paranormal romance. When she isn't 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: www.AshleyRobertsonBooks.com

Where to Buy:

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Smashwords

Stalk the Author:

Website

Twitter

Facebook

Goodreads

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