Author: After the final chapters

Emma Louise from EmmaisWriting

Welcome back to my September feature where I am interviewing other reviewers, asking them the questions that they never expecting to be answering. Today is the turn of Emma Louise from EmmalsWriting. Don’t forget to follow Emma on Twitter

Hi Emma, tell us a bit about yourself

Well I’m Emma. I’m currently twenty two years old. I was born on the most awkward day of the year, Boxing Day. I have just finished my Masters degree in Creative Writing and would love to work in publishing one day. I am a huge fan of Harry Potter – I even have a pillow case of Daniel Radcliffe’s face. I love owls, cups of tea and jaffa cakes.

At what age did you become an avid reader?

I’ve always loved to read but since April when I started my blog – http://www.emmaiswriting.wordpress.com – I think I’ve read a lot more than usual because publishers and authors reach out to me for reviews and interviews.

Sometimes (most times) I would prefer to read a book than talk to people, do you ever feel that way?

Sorry, I don’t wish to talk right now, I’m reading…

The question everyone hates – What is your favourite book?

I really do hate this question but after being asked so many times, I’ve reached an answer. I have two. The first is Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – the reason why it is my favourite HP book is simple: No Voldemort and lots of delicious Sirius Black. I have a thing for Gary Oldman as well. My second favourite novel is The Choice by Nicholas Sparks – I adore this man, like full on adore him. I am a huge fan of romance novels and I am honoured to say I have his entire collection in my wardrobe. This love story is so simple and harmless, yet it makes you think about the beginning and the end. I need to re-read it again to review. But it’s so breathtakingly beautiful.

What new release are you most excited for?

The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks, which is due for release here in the UK on September 17th so I am definitely going to purchase it and move it straight to the top of my TBR list.

Who is your ultimate book boy?

Harry Potter. I literally do not care what people say about how he isn’t sexy enough to be a book boyfriend but come on, he whips his wand out! Bad pun, I know. I love Harry for the simple reason that friendship is everything to him. He has no family; his friends are the only ones he has. He deserves the happy ending.

Which character would you most like to bitch slap?

Professor Umbridge – oh my days! That woman’s laugh gets right on my nerves. Even in the books, I can just hear her pathetic little laugh. No actually, I’d like to punch her.

I’d like to bitch slap Bellatrix Lestrange because she killed Sirius. I can’t bear to watch that scene anymore because my anger just builds up. You can see in her face after it happens that she felt bad for a split second. Yes, I’d love to bitch slap her. I love Molly Weasley for getting rid of the evil bitch.

What character would you like to – Snog, One night Stand, Marry, Love, Best Friend?

Snog – Kellan Kyle from S.C Stephen’s Thoughtless Series
One Night Stand – Johnny Jefferson from Paige Toon’s Johnny Be Good and Baby Be Mine
Marry – Harry Potter
Love – Dumbledore because I love gay men
Best Friend – Allie from Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook

What character do you love to hate?

Love to hate, ohhhh, that’s a tough one! It’d have to be Kellan Kyle. I hated him for breaking Kiera and Denny up (spoiler alert!) but then I grew to love him.

What is the best thing about being a reviewer?

A lot of publishers and authors include little notes inside the books which I absolutely adore. It makes me feel loved and that they’re truly grateful.

Is there anything about it that annoys you?

I feel bad when I have to add a book to the bottom, but it’s the only way. I have to juggle my home life, my job, reading, writing my new novel and blogging. It all gets a bit too much sometimes. I know quite a few reviewers have stopped receiving review copies because they have so many. It can be overwhelming sometimes.

What book would you love to see made into a movie?

The Thoughtless Series by S. C Stephens… I did hear a rumour so I’m hoping it’s true.

Who would play the main characters?

I’ll leave that up to the author! It’s too tough of a question to answer.

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What’s A Girl To Do

Tour Banner

I am absolutely thrilled to be taking part in this blog tour for the wonderful Aimee Duffy. I loved What’s A Girl To Do and wish Aimee the best of luck with it!

Cover

What’s a Girl to Do?
Indecent Proposals Series Book One
By: Aimee Duffy
Harper Impulse
Releasing August 29th, 2013

What it’s all about…

The first novella in a thrilling, pulse-racing new erotic romance series, Indecent Proposals. Three best friends, Shey, Eloisa and Georgia take on the most powerful and eligible men of the New York dating scene.

Perfect for fans of bestselling erotic romance authors Sylvia Day and E.L. James!

‘I’m not coming over.’ Shey replied confidently.
‘Then maybe you could return the favor now.’
Wait, he didn’t mean…
‘Slide your hand beneath your panties and tell me how ready you are for me.’
Oh my god, he did.

Single Manhattanite Shey Lopez doesn’t do one night stands, or have relationships she can’t control. Especially if giving in to playboy Calvin Jones means losing her heart in the process.

However, Mr Won’t-Take-No-For-An-Answer always gets what he wants and there’s only so many times a girl can resist such an enticing proposal…

What I thought!

What’s a girl to do indeed! Aimée Duffy aims to please, and please she most certainly did. Not that this was ever in question. Aimée never fails to please. Like your favourite pair of jeans, you know just what you are going to get. In this case we got a dose of hot, with a little extra steam. We are used to Ms Duffy’s books having a little bit of the steamier stuff but hell, someone just cranked up the sauna. What’s A Girl To Do is great story, with a delicious leading man. We all need one of those right?

Is there anything hotter than a man determined to get the woman he wants, especially when the woman isn’t interested. Shey makes Calvin work for her affection, and work the man had to do. However, it takes Shey losing her man to see how much she really wanted him and realise just how much she needs him too!

Another must read from Aimee Duffy. Both herself and Harper Impulse are knocking it out of the park lately!

I read this one in a day, being lucky enough to have gotten it early. I do love being a reviewer! A little birdy has also told me that this is just a taster of things to come. Georgia’s story is next and when you read What’s A Girl To Do you may, like me, get the impression that Georgia is a duuuurrrtttyyyyy girl.
Buy Links
Amazon UK: Amazon:
Follow Tour HERE

About Aimee

About me (snooze—can you tell I hate the me stuff? Lol)

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a good book in my hands. In primary school I loved Roald Dahl. In high school my English teacher introduced me to Charles Dickens, Stephen King, Jane Austin, Emily Bronte, and Shakespeare. It was then that I discovered my love for romance and I’ve wanted to pen my own imaginary heroes and heroines for others to enjoy ever since. Only in the last few years was I lucky enough to meet some fabulous and encouraging people to help me gain the skills to make that dream possible.

I live in sunny Scotland in a small town near the Ochils and work nine to five in a solicitors office. In my free time, you’ll find me on Facebook, stalking *cough* following friends on Twitter, and may even catch me shoe shopping.

Feel free to follow me on: Twitter/ Blog, Facebook , Goodreads,Pinterest,Google +

Rafflecopter Links ($10.00 Amazon Gift Card or iTunes Voucher for Winner’s Choice Harper Impulse Digital Release)
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OR,
Link to Rafflecopter Page, http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NTIxYWM0YzhjYmFkNDc1MDkxYzA3ZDNmMjhhM2RjOjEyMQ==/

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Stacey Hargreaves

Today Stacey Hargreaves from the blog Fairy Tale Ending Book Reviews has pulled up a chair at the table to tell us all about her book obsession.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’ve been a bookworm for as long as I can remember but like most teenagers, I was easily distracted by the boys and soon the books took a backseat! Whilst doing my GCSEs and studying for my Chartered Accountancy exams during my late teens/early twenties, I struggled to find much time to read. Now I’m happily engaged and settled in my job, I’ve picked up where I left off but in the fortunate position of being able to afford more books!

What made you start a blog reviewing books?

When I read a book I love, I want to tell the world but unfortunately, very few of my close friends enjoy reading like I do. I’d come across a few book blogs and decided that could be my outlet to spread my love for the books I’d enjoyed.

Just looking at your list I think we have similar tastes, would I be right in thinking you prefer a book with a bit of steam?

It’s the romance I’m a true fan of, hence my love of new adult and chicklit too but it never hurts to have a bit of steam!

What in your opinion is the sexiest book out there (that you have read)?

Forbidden by Lora Leigh. I think Joe in the book is right when he says that Keiley is living every woman’s sexual fantasy but it is a fantasy that for me, was made sexier by the fact that there was so much love involved too.

Do you have a favourite series of books?

With a bit of steam: The Crossfire series (so far). This series is such a nice light read with just the right amount of steam. I was really shocked that the third book wasn’t the end of the series as I’d expected – I can’t wait for books 4 and 5 to be released.

Otherwise I’d have to say the Paige Toon books. Whilst not technically a series, there is always a clever link between the characters of each book so I like to class them as a series. Paige writes fantastic chicklit stories and I’ve yet to read a book I’ve not enjoyed. My favourites are Lucy in the Sky and Chasing Daisy.

Is there any book out there that just downright shocked you?

The Original Sinners series by Tiffany Reisz. The Catholic priest is shocking enough to begin with but then they move on to blood-play, rape-play and breath-play… Suddenly Christian Grey and his red room of pain seem like child’s play. That said, they’re fantastically written and I enjoyed the series so much I would still recommend the books to others – I’d just warn them beforehand.

Who is your ultimate book boy?

Travis Maddox from Beautiful Disaster/Walking Disaster by Jamie McGuire.
He’s everything you could want in a bad boy and more. Sexy, intelligent, kind, caring, sexy, thoughtful, passionate, protective… and did I mention sexy?!

Please feel free to give us a visual!

Travis montage

For you what are the essential ingredients in a book?

I think all books need a hot guy, some romance and a fairy tale ending.

Do you prefer digital or paperback?

In an ideal world, I’d prefer to read paperback but since I have a house rather than a library, I mostly read ebooks. I read on my iPad so I’m lucky that I can access both the iBooks and Kindle libraries, having a huge choice available to read within minutes and they’re often cheaper than a paperback too. I do have all of my favourites in paperback though, even if it means buying a second copy.

Are you finding authors are supportive of your reviews?

I haven’t really had much interaction with many authors but those I’ve tagged in Twitter links are generally polite and retweet the link to the reviews.

If you could have a party with 8 characters who would they be?

I think the majority of the party guests would have to come from Lindsey Kelk’s books:
Angela & Jenny to provide the chaos and glamour
James because every good party needs a gay Hollywood star
Alex to provide the music (and some eye candy)
And the fun trio from Single Girls; Redhead Rachel, Emelie and Matthew

The final guest would have to be Max Stella from Beautiful Stranger by Christina Lauren – for me. Just me. No touching!

Do you have any pet hates about being a reviewer?

ARCs are my pet hate. I totally understand why they exist and the benefit to the authors to have reviews out there creating demand ahead of the release date but for those reviewers not lucky enough to receive them, it often means that our reviews are almost outdated since we’ve had to wait until the release date. I’m really not comfortable asking for ARCs either – I feel like I’m being really cheeky and asking for a freebie when I’d be quite happy to pay for it.

How many books on average do you read a week?

Probably about 3-4 most weeks. I can easily read an entire book in an evening – I’d rather go into work tired than have to put down a book that has me gripped!

Do you feel under pressure if you haven’t had a blog post for a couple of days?

Definitely. I find it particularly difficult to split my time between work, reading, reviewing, sleeping and my fiancé (because apparently he can’t be ignored all of the time!). There are so many books I want to read that sometimes I just want to get started on the next book rather than spending time writing a review.

If you could take credit for reading any one book or series what would it be?

I think ultimately, this would have to be the Harry Potter series. I usually really struggle with fantasy books, not being able to immerse myself into the make-believe world, but like million of other readers I was fascinated by the Harry Potter series. A series so successful it had been translated into over 60 languages and has captivated the imaginations of such a wide audience; young and old.

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Kirsty form Love of a Good Book

Today Kirsty from Love of a Good Book drops by and answers my very nosey questions.

Tell us about yourself?

I’m Kirsty from the West Midlands and I’m obsessed with books, dresses, satchels and thanks to Victoria Stone, Ryan Gosling.

What inspired you to start your blog?

I guest reviewed first and absolutely loved it and then an author approached me to review for her independently. The blog came about from that request, I’ve always been an avid reader so I had plenty of books to read and review,

Do you have a preferred genre to read?

I love chick lit and adult reads.

Do you have a favourite book?

I can’t really answer that, it’s like asking a parent to pick their favourite child.
Ok it’s not, it’s worse! No parent will have as many children as I have books and I can’t pick, I just can’t.
Please don’t make me!

What new release are you most looking forward to reading?

I need to go with releases sorry,
Amelia Grey’s Fireside Dream by Abby Clements
Take A Look At Me Now by Miranda Dickinson
I Heart Christmas by Lindsey Kelk

What did you last read, are you currently reading and do you next plan to read?

I last read, Another Way to Fall by Amanda Brooke.
I’m currently reading, My Husbands Secret by Liane Moriaty
And I plan to read Not Pretty Enough by Jaimie Admans next.

If you could read any book again for the first time what would it be?

By My Side by Alice Peterson, that story is so inspirational.
It’s a wake up call in a book!

Do you give bad reviews if you don’t like a book or just decide not to review it?

When I review a book, I agree to give my personal opinion and be honest,
This unfortunately means if I don’t like a book I have to say so.
I will never slate a book or attack an author, if I don’t like a book, that’s because I’m me and doesn’t mean everyone else will dislike it as well.

I love the interaction between reviewers on Twitter, do you find great support between reviewers and bloggers?

I have a lot to thank Twitter for, it put me in touch with some fantastic people who I now call friends.
When I first started blogging I was worried of the reception I would get, but people have been lovely. We all retweet other reviewers and we read other blogs. It’s a great community!

What was the first blog that you followed?

Lindsey Kelks blog.

Who is your favourite book boy?

One? I can only pick one? I had enough trouble narrowing it down to five for the Book Boyfriends feature on ‘Victoria Loves Books’
Ok then (sorry book boys if you’re reading this, I love you all) if I have to choose, it is Jacques from Winter Wonderland by Belinda Jones

The Academy Of Television Arts & Sciences Presents An Evening With "Revenge"

Hairy and rough or clean cut and smooth?

Both! You whore, I hear you cry. But honest it really depends.

Clean cut and smooth aka Ryan Gosling in Crazy, Stupid, Love

Kirsty 2

Hairy and rough aka Ryan Gosling in The Notebook.

Kirsty 3

Ok that may have been an excuse to show you more Gosling pictures but admit it, you’re glad I did?

haha you are all Gosling obsessed

You can have dinner with 3 authors, who are they?

Lindsey Kelk
Lucy Lord
Belinda Jones

You can ask them one question each – what are they?

Why isn’t Nick real?
Why isn’t Mark real?
Why isn’t Jacques real?
And then we would all drink cocktails!

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Sharon from Shaz’s Book Blog

Here we are in day four of the September feature. It seems people are loving finding out what book reviewers think. To be honest i am not surprised – we are after all an opinionated bunch!

Today is the turn of Sharon from Shaz’s Book Blog. Lets see what she had to say;

Tell us a little about Shaz.

Hmmm let me have a think, is there anything interesting about me?!
I was an army brat so lived in Northern Ireland and Germany before we eventually moved to England when I was ten and have lived here ever since.

I’m a forty-something book addict who reads for a bit of escapism from her humdrum life. My day job currently involves working in the technical department of an Insurance company head office but that’s going to be changing as I’m being made redundant next year when the office relocates. At first I was upset about this as i’ve worked there all my adult life, will be 24.5 years by the time I leave, but now I’m looking at this as a good opportunity to do something different, maybe even book related.

Reading your twitter profile was like reading about myself, do you find you would read above all else?

Given the chance… yes! My reading day normally includes a sneaky chapter or two before work, reading during lunch break at work, read a chapter or two before tea and normally at least an hour in bed at night… you can tell I’m single and don’t have a family!
I’d love to be able to afford to not work and stay at home and read all day but sadly with a mortgage and bills to pay that’s not possible. But who knows what the future might bring, I might win the lottery or meet a millionaire who’ll fund my lady of leisure lifestyle, I can but dream….
My current thinking next year when I’m made redundant is to have some time off and travel, with plenty of reading of course. With my aunt and cousins in Northern Ireland and my brother in Dubai, it would be the perfect opportunity to catch up with them but I might wobble and decide that I need to start looking for a new job straight away.

Last week my husband took my ereader out of my hand when I was cooking dinner, are there any inappropriate times that you have caught yourself reading?

Not really an inappropriate time as such but was reading at my desk during my lunch break when our company CEO walked past but he actually stopped and asked what I was reading LOL

Have you ever heard a song that you immediately thought –“that should be the soundtrack for ______ book”

Sadly not, I have to honest I don’t listen to much music or watch much telly these days so wouldn’t have a clue about current music. I’ll stick to the music of my teens, the 80s LOL, I’m sure if I thought about it long enough I could find a song from that era that could be suitable but that’d mean digging into the deep recesses of my memory!!

Do you prefer contemporary romance or something with a bit of steam?

I don’t mind a bit of steam but think those days are long gone for me so tend to stick more to contemporary these days…

Paranormal – yay or nay?

Big nay for me, can’t stand them. Not read any of the Twilight books and have no plans to do so

Do you have a book that you can label your absolute number 1? Or do you have several?

One of my favourite books that I read in my teens was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott and it’s a book I’ve read time and time again.

Do you find that on the whole authors are appreciative of reviewers?

Yes, on the whole the majority of authors do appreciate reviewers as we’re helping to get their stories out there. I think you get what you give, if you show them respect you’ll get respect back. I can count on one hand the amount of negative dealings I’ve had and they weren’t with established authors.

As a reviewer do you have a pet hate?

Yes, I hate rudeness and disrespect. Due to my current backlog of reviews, I’ve had to turn down a lot of unsolicited review requests including some from genres that I don’t review, and clearly state on the blog I don’t review. I always try and decline these as politely as possible and quite often offer them a different feature on the blog i.e. debut spotlight, interview etc.
Most are lovely and understanding but one was so rude in her response that it really upset me for a while. Most people who know the real me know that I’m a big softie and would do anything for anyone if I could, so to be attacked, albeit verbally by email, really got to me.

If you had to choose between Facebook and Twitter which would it be?
I do like Facebook and use it a lot but there’s definitely a lot more interaction on Twitter although the 140 characters can be a bit frustrating at times.

Have you ever thought of writing a book?

No, I tried to write a short story for my blog’s Christmas feature last year and it was absolute tosh, I’m definitely a reader not a writer 😉

Do you prefer digital or paperback?

I’m a traditionalist at heart and love nothing more than curling up with a book but since setting up the Blog, and since being given a Kindle for my 40th birthday, I’m definitely reading a lot more eBooks.

Tell us one book that we absolutely have to read.

This year, one of my favourite books has to be By My Side by Alice Peterson.

What is the last book that made you shed a tear?

As question above, By My Side by Alice Peterson but they were tears of joy. I loved reading about the relationship between Cass and her helper dog Ticket.

What is the last book that got you mad?

Not sure if this counts as getting me mad, it was more disbelief that this actually happened in real life, was reading about the forced sterialisation program in Diane Chamberlain’s latest book Necessary Lies.

What is the last book that got you a bit hot under the collar?

That would have to be Killer Heels by the Queen of Bonkbusters Rebecca Chance. I have her latest book, Killer Queens, in my TBR pile.

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Nikki, Sarah and Katie from Bookaholics Blog

Good Morning, today is the turn of the girls from the Bookaholics Blog. Sarah, Nikki and Katie have given fabulous answers and they all answered all of the questions. Thanks girls!!

Tell us a bit about your blog

Bookaholics Blog was started by Katie in November last year, I, Nikki quickly joined her and last month we added Sarah to our little blog family! Katie and Sarah live in the US and I live in the UK.

What made you start blogging about the books you were reading?

We all have a profound love of books , i live, eat and sleep books and it never ceases to amaze me how a powerful book affects me. I wanted to share my thoughts and the wonderful books that i had discovered as well as blogging to help new indie authors get noticed.

What is your preferred genre?

Nikki-For us girls, it has to be Romance. This however comes in all different shapes and sizes. Katie hates a cliffhanger and has to have a traditional happy ending. Sarah and i will read pretty much anything. I secretly love a massive cliffhanger as long as the sequel isn’t too far behind and i’m also just discovering a love for dark erotic romance.

Sarah- I love love love super emotional books. If an author makes me cry they are probably going to get a higher star rating from me! I just read Ruin by Rachel Van Dyken and it completely gutted me. For me that’s the sign of a great book. I actively avoid books that are billed as funny or anything along those lines.

Katie- This is where we all work well together because I love a funny book with smart ass characters. It is true I don’t like cliffhangers, that is because I don’t like the long wait for the second installment. If I know there is a cliffhanger I try and wait until the second book is out before I start to read the first one.

What upcoming new release are you most excited for?

Nikki- I absolutely cannot wait for Gabriels Redemption, I seriously love the Prof!! It has been a long time coming but it’s going to be so worth it.

Sarah- This is SO hard!! I’d probably have to go with Until You (Fall Away #1.5) by Penelope Douglas, I so can not wait for Jared’s side of that story. Or maybe Good (Too Good #1) by S. Walden, that forbidden romance thing always intrigues me!

Katie- Hmmm, this is a really tough question. I am excited about Mine by Katy Evans and Gabriel’s Redemption. Gabriel’s Inferno was one of the first books I read and I feel like I have been waiting forever for this book to come out. Hence why I hate cliffhangers.

What did you read last, are you currently reading and planning on reading next?

Nikki- I read Temporary Bliss by BJ Harvey- Due out next week and a 5 star read for me. My current read is Tears of Tess by Pepper Winters and it’s bloody fantastic! Next up is Shine Not Burn by Elle Casey.

Sarah- My last read was Love Exactly by Cassandra Giovanni, it was an okay story, I just didn’t quite connect with it. I’m currently reading Girl on Tour (Kylie Ryans #2) by Caisey Quinn, due out Aug. 27, I’m really enjoying it (but I do think the first one is better). I have a forewarning, from the author, that it is a little bit of a cliffhanger, so I’m anxious to get the last book and this one hasn’t even been published yet! My next book(s) are Love Notes and Heartstrings by Heather Gunter.

Katie- My last read was Temporary Bliss by BJ Harvey. I agree with Nikki FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC. I am currently back at school so I am not too sure what I am reading next. I have to squeeze them I to my hectic schedule which is sad for me because I love books.

Which book have provoked the biggest emotional reaction from you?

Nikki- For me it has to be Me Before You-Jojo Moyes it broke my heart for days and has stayed with me ever since.

Sarah- I’m super emotional, one of those girls that cries at commercials, so this is hard to nail down for me. If I’m being completely honest I’d probably have to go with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I spent such a huge chunk of my life reading those books that when it was finally done I was a complete mess.

Katie- Since I am one who loves the funny HEA books I haven’t read too many sad books because I lawn them off to Nikki, lol. I have to say that Let Love In by Melissa Collins really tore me up at the ending. I have to say that is a wonderful series.

What book surprised you the most, either good or bad?

Nikki- Consequenses and Truth by Aleatha Romig, i’ve never read something that plays with your mind quite as much as her books. Just as you think you have it all figured out she throws in a curve ball, it’s genius. There was a book that was surprisingly bad to me, everyone i know loved it but i couldn’t see how, not even a little bit! I won’t say what book it was though as i don’t believe in bashing books, each to their own!

Sarah- The Black Dagger Brotherhood, a friend recommended it to me a couple of years ago and I really didn’t think that it was my thing. After reading Dark Lover I was completely hooked! I am very thankful that I was led to that series!

Katie- I would have to say that Amelia Hutchins sucked me in with her Paranormal series. I never thought I would like a Paranormal but Fighting Destiny has really changed my mind. I currently beta read for her and I signed up when I first started the blog and I am really glad I did. You should really check it out.

If you were to be a character in any book who would it be?

Nikki- It would have to be Ava O Shea, from This Man, I am totally, head over heels in love with the control freak that is Jesse Ward *sigh*

Sarah- Probably Kami for Fear of Falling. I really identified with her, there is some shit in my past that was pretty screwed up and left me a mess. My husband though has been able to help my pick up the pieces, deal with them (as best I could), and put me back together.

Katie- There are so many I couldn’t even pick. It would have to be all the smart ass females.

What character in what book would you most like to slap some sense in to?

Nikki- Keira from Thoughtless, she really annoyed me but at the same time i felt where she was coming from.

Sarah- The same! Or maybe Anastasia Steele from FSoG. Good Lord someone needed to slap that girl!

Katie- I agree with the above mentioned characters. I also wanted to slap Grey from Stripped by Jasinda Wilder.

What was your favourite blog post to write?

Nikki- My review for Beneath the Burn by Pam Godwin, it was such a rollercoaster of a book, and evoked so many feelings in me, i could have written about it all day.

Sarah- My review Never Goodbye by Kerri Williams, that book had me bawling in the foreword. I cried a lot when I was reading it and more when I was writing my review. And that is what makes a good book for me, the tears.

Katie- I love writing all of my blog posts.

Which blog post has provided you with the most amount of hit?

Nikki- My Blog post for Beg by CD Reiss has had the most hits.

Sarah- My Never Goodbye review.

What book would you most like to see made into a movie?

Nikki– I actually think Come Away With Me by Kristen Proby would make a great movie.

Sarah- I’d love to see the Shattered Hearts series by Cassia Leo made into a movie. I loved that series, and I’m pretty sad that it’s over.

Katie- I would like to see Gabriel’s series into a movie.

Who is your ultimate book boy?

Nikki– The one and only Mr Grey, he is the reason i started this crazy reading, blogging journey and i’ll be ever thankful to E.L.James.

Sarah- So hard!! I really like tatted up bad boys. But, I’ve got to say I love Gideon Cross, I want a man who will do for me what he did for Eva.

Katie- Once again I agree with by fellow bloggers. Oh and I have a soft spot for Brad from Love Love and REMY.

Thanks girls for taking part.

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Everything for Us – Release day

EFU RDL

I am absolutely thrilled for all of you fans of M. Leighton that today has finally come. The long awaited, much anticipated third book in the Bad Boys series. And boy are they bad 😉

Everything for Us

EverythingForUs

When it comes to passion this hot, it’s all or nothing.

Olivia Townsend’s wealthy cousin Marissa had everything a girl could ask for—a great job, a privileged life, and all the friends she wanted. Or, at least, all the friends money could buy. But one case of mistaken identity has turned her privileged world upside down.

An abduction gone wrong lands her right in the lap of the sexiest, most dangerous man she’s ever met. To Marissa, he’s an enigma, but one to whom she’s irresistibly, inexplicably drawn.

With him comes a new world of freedom and passion, of dark shadows and dangerous secrets, a world where nothing is what it seems—except for the blind passion that Marissa can’t escape—or maybe even survive.

What I thought

Another party that I was late to. I read Down to You and Up to Me back to back. Thankfully I only had a couple of weeks to wait for Everything for Us as I was one of the lucky ones to receive an advance copy. Very lucky indeed.

I am not going to go in to the plot like I normally would. This is the third book in a series and I would loathe to ruin it on anyone. What I will say is, those of you that have been waiting on this – it’s worth the wait. It read a little differently to the others but that’s because of the man at the heart of the story, a man that bit edgier and very much darker. As ever the story is strong and consistent. Most importantly though it was freakin hot. Like seriously, at one point my jaw dropped and I am not easily shocked any more. Did I enjoy this book? Hell I am still enjoying it.

When I was out last week I bought a bottle of Heineken (it’s someones favourite drink 😉 ) and I got random hairy fellas to pose with it. I think I had too much to drink. I did tweet Michelle the pictures but I couldn’t post them here without permission.

I am back to college next week. I went shopping for a bag yesterday, I knew what I wanted but saw the bag below. Read it! I just had to have it.

Cash bag

It was when I got home and proudly showing my hubby and he was looking at me funny that I noticed the naked woman on it.

THAT right there is how much I love that book!!
Though the bag will have to be returned lol

About M. Leighton

M. Leighton at desk

M. Leighton is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Wild Ones and The Bad Boys romance trilogies. She is a native of Ohio, relocated to the warmer climates of the South, where she lets her mind wander to romantic settings with sexy Southern guys much like the one she married and the ones you’ll find in her latest books. When her thoughts aren’t roaming in that direction, she’ll be riding horses, swimming in ponds and experiencing life on a ranch, all without leaving the cozy comfort of her office.

For more about M. Leighton, visit her Website, her Facebook page, Amazon author page or follow her on Twitter.

Competition time

M. Leighton will be giving away a Kindle Fire or Nook (winners choice) for 1 grand prize winner, 3 sets of DOWN TO YOU and UP TO ME ecopies for 3 winners, and 2 THE WILD ONES ecopies for 2 winners during the Blog Tour and Release Day Launch. This is an international giveaway.

TO ENTER:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

To buy: Amazon, B&N

Everything for US is published by Berkely, find them on Twitter and Facebook.

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Victoria from Victoria Loves Books

So here we are on day 2 of the bloggers feature. I have come to love following Victoria, of Victoria Loves Books on Twitter. To be honest I think she, along with Laura Lovelock are despairing of me and my lack of knowledge of HOT MEN!! Following them and their blogs has been an education!

Who is Victoria?

What a question! I’m a wife, a mum and I love books. I like to think I’m kind, honest and caring and hope i make my husband and children proud.

What made you start blogging about the books you were reading?

I’ve always read, it’s a huge part of my life. When I joined twitter I spoke books none stop! Kevin, of IHeartBooks told me I should start blogging, which set the wheels turning in my brain. I eventually set up my blog and I love it.

Do you find that on the whole authors are supportive of bloggers?

Oh from experience I can say absolutely. I’ve not come across an author who isn’t willing to help you out, wether it be interviews or writing pieces for your blog.

What is your favourite blog post and why?

Oooh that’s hard because I love them all, but I love my interview with Paige Toon.

What other blogs do you love to follow?

I follow SO many now,

Sharon Sant
Laura Reviews
Megan In The Sunshine
I_HeartChickLit
LeeLeeLoves
Loveofagoodbook

To name a few!

Mine is noticably absent 😮 lol

Do you feel that you have come a long way since you began reviewing?

I think so, I’m certainly getting more views and more requests to review books. I just like to be told, “I bought the book you reviewed.”
That feedback is so exciting, that because of my review someone has picked a book up.

I get a little thrill when the postman arrives with a book that I wasn’t expecting, is it the same for you?

Oh without doubt! My postman laughs at my excitement every time he knocks, and when he isn’t on duty and a I have a new one they say “ahh your the girl who squeals at the postman” haha

What is your favourite part of being a reviewer?

Sharing my love of books, or even finding that book that you have no expectations of that blows your mind. That you have to shout about it, to anyone that will listen!

But also more than that the little blogging family that I’ve become apart of. On the whole it’s brilliant, to have support of other Reviewers and also To be able to support them too, it makes reviewing even more fun.
Especially a few girls that have become brilliant friends and make me laugh more than anyone I’ve ever met.

Is there anything that annoys you about it?

Recently I’ve seen other bloggers begging anyone and everyone for free books or signed books. I think it’s disrespectful and rude. I don’t do my reviews for free books, I do it for my love of reading. I also buy a lot of my books i review myself. A few people seem to be doing it just for freebies. Which is just a shame.

Ok, so of all the books you have read what is your favourite? If you are like me you can pick a couple from different genres?

GOD that’s like asking my favourite child! Your Mean.
I have a few so here goes;

Harry Potter – JK Rowling
The Lady Of Hay – Barbara Erskine
The Time Traveler’s Wife – Audrey Niffengger
One Day – David Nicholls
The Undomestic Goddess – Sophie Kinsella
I’ve Got You’re Number – Sophie Kinsella
The Girl You Left Behind – JoJo Moyes
The Cross Fire Series – Sylvia Day
Pictures Of Lily – Paige Toon
Tell No One – Harlan Coben
Six Years – Harlan Coben
The Bone Garden – Tess Gerritsen
The entire Rizzoli and Isles Series – Tess Gerritsen
One by One – Chris Carter
The Land Of The Living – Nicci French
Yours Truly – Kirsty Greenwood
I literally just read an advanced copy of The Memory Game – Sharon Sant

Oh that was a lot! I kind if got on a roll.

eBook versus paperback?

I only got and Ereader at Christmas and hardly used it, i hated the idea of them taking over paperbacks. But I have discovered a whole world of self published authors and adore my kindle now. Although as soon as an ebook is available on Paperback I instantly buy it.

Rough and hairy or clean cut and smooth?

Rough and ready! Oh sorry rough and hairy for sure. My husband is hairy and a bit rough looking, although really his a big softie.

What is your preferred genre?

I always loved crime and horror, but after discovering Chicklit last year and Sci-fi, YA and NA this year I’m open to anything at all.

What is did you last read, are you currently reading and plan to read next?

As I said above I just finished The Memory Game by Sharon Sant that I was lucky to read in advance. She is a lady to watch out for it was incredible.
I’m about to start S.E.C.E.R.T by L. Marie Adeline for my online book club.

What book last made you cry?

Again it was The Memory Game by Sharon Sant, it was ugly, snotty, howling tears too!

What book last had you fanning yourself?

Oh wow I’ve read some very good ones recently but that would be Down To You by M. Leighton

Who is your ultimate book boyfriend?

So tough I have about 30! It was recently Ben from Pictures Of Lily but it’s easily changed to Cash from Down To You. Although don’t tell Laura she will be after me 😉

Show us your favourite book boy picture?

He looks nothing like Cash in my head but that’s ok because he could be my anything 😉 it’s no surprise who it is either I’m sure, but I ACTUALLY LOVE HIM! In my head we are married and he reads to me every night, he bakes me cookies and washes my hair…..WOAH! I’m getting carried away now!

image

image (1)

I have to tell you, this picture caused a storm lol. She told me it was a random guy when I asked her who it was. I was like, No he’s famous i’m sure of it. I went so far as to post this on twitter and ask for help. Mortified much…I did tell you they are despairing of me 😉

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Laura Lovelock of Laura’s Book Reviews

Hi there everyone!

I decided that in Sept I would run a feature that would see me interview a few other book reviewers. I thought it would be interesting for once to have the bloggers answer the questions that they like to ask others. I thought I would get four or five agree to do this. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the response would be so huge. I am lucky enough ro be able to share a new blogger with you for every weekday in September. How cool is that!

Today, Laura Lovelock of Laura’s Book Reviews is going to kick us off. If you like what she has to say then be sure to follow her on Twitter.

Tell us a bit about Laura

I am a major bookworm and you can normally find me with my head in a book or sorting out my bookshelves! I am 20 years old and my biggest dream is to become an author; I am currently trying to write my first novel! Books make me happier than most other things in life as they’re always there when I need them and can take me off to so many worlds.

What is your favourite genre to read?

This is a tough one. I love chick-lit/women’s fiction a lot. I love the escapism and happiness that it provides. However, I love crime/thrillers too because they really keep you on edge. I would say I currently read more chick lit than anything else at the moment though.

Do you prefer digital or paperback?

Another tough one! I enjoy both for different reasons. Digital is quick, easy, portable and takes up no room. Paperbacks are more tactile, they’re pretty, they give you the ‘real’ reading experience. I guess I prefer paperback a little more than digital purely because I love to hold a book in my hands but I would happily read digital too.

Do you have an all-time favourite book or, like me, have to split it up in to different categories?

I am definitely like you, I cannot choose a favourite book! One of my favourites is The Perks Of Being A Wallflower and I also adore anything by Linwood Barclay. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion is probably the best book I’ve read this year so that one is also high up on my ‘all time favourites’ list!

What did you last read, are you currently reading and do you plan on reading next?

I last read Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick. I am currently reading Reconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreight and I plan to read one of Sophie McKenzie’s YA books next.


Do you prefer contemporary romance or something with a bit more steam?

If you’d have asked me this question a few months ago I would have said contemporary romance hands down, but recently I have really been enjoying the more steamy novels. I was sent quite a lot to review and I decided to pick them up and give them a read, even though they weren’t my cup of tea, and I was surprised by how much I really did enjoy some of them! They have to have a good plot, mind you, and have a story worth telling as well as the steam but I have definitely been converted! I do love my contemporary romance though so I do prefer those slightly over the others.

If you could read any book again for the very first time what would it be?

Wow! This is a hard one. There are so many books I finish and think ‘I wish I could start it again’. The one book that did that most recently was The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty. It was superb and I can’t wait to go back and re-read it again and again.

On average how many books would you read per week?

On average probably about 4. Some weeks I might manage about 10 and some only about 2! So it really depends but I’d say 4 was the average.

Now I know you are an aspiring author, how do you decide how to split your time between reading and writing?

Basically it is dictated by how many books I need to read! If there’s a big pub day coming up with loads of new books being published and I have loads to get through then I dedicate my time to that. Same with taking part in blog tours etc. When it’s a bit quieter and I don’t have a massive-ish queue of books to review then I will take a little break and write. I also find that when I’m reading I can get ideas for my own novel so quickly note them down and come back to them a little later on. That’s quite a helpful thing.

Do you ever feel that by committing yourself to reading and reviewing books it takes the fun out of it?

Very, very rarely. I tend to only review books that I would buy from a bookshop anyway and I am just so lucky that I get them sent to review. If I am sent a review request and it doesn’t seem like something I would normally read then I won’t accept it. I don’t review for money and to get paid, I just review for the love of it, so I would never review books I don’t fancy reading! I think that if you are a book reviewer you have to be selective about the books you get approached about and decide if you really can and want to read that book. I also love reviewing because it gives me the chance to get my feelings out about the book I’ve just read and is also a lovely journal of all the books I have read.


What is the first book you can remember reading?

This is hard because growing up I’ve always been surrounded by books and reading so I’ve been reading from the second I could. I can really remember reading The Rainbow Fish! I used to love going to the library and taking that one out. It was my favourite book for a long time!

Who is your ultimate book boy?

Are you serious? How am I supposed to choose just one?! I have so many book boys that I would happily marry. One of my all-time favourites is Noah from The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks (just an excuse to show you a picture of Gosling)

Please feel free to provide a visual 😉

Gosling notebook

I find sometimes I would rather read a book that talk to people, am I alone in that or is that how other book addicts feel?

Oh no, you’re definitely not alone. I often prefer the company of a book over people. However I do love to talk to people about books, so if I find a fellow book addict and we chat about books then that’s an acceptable form of conversation!

If you could take the credit for writing any book what would it be?

It would be fantastic to have the money and success of someone like Rowling or E L James but I think I’d love to have the credit for writing The Gruffalo! I absolutely adore that book and would love to have had the idea for that one myself.

Laura, I loved these answers! Thank you so much for taking part.

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Almost

Almost

At a freshman party she doesn’t remember, Jess Jordan was almost raped.

…Almost. Very nearly. Not quite. Three years later, Jess has managed to make everyone believe she’s better. Over it. Because she is.

…Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

Unfortunately, until Jess proves she’s back to normal activities, her parents won’t discuss college. So, she lands a summer internship and strikes a deal with hockey jock, Gray Porter: He gets $8,000. She gets a fake boyfriend and a social life.

Jess has no idea Gray signed on for reasons other than money. She also never expects to fall in love. But Gray’s amazingly hot, holds her hand all the time, and makes her forget that he’s simply doing his job. It’s like having a real boyfriend.

…Almost. Very nearly. Not quite.

Gray Porter is hiding secrets of his own. About Jess Jordan. About why he’s driven to protect her, why he won’t cash her checks, or deny her anything she asks.

Almost is a story like none other that I have read. Anne Eliot is telling the story of a girl that, well, nothing happened to. So what the hell is wrong with her?

Why is she unable to sleep?

Why when she falls asleep does she have nightmares that make her wake screaming?

Why do her parents have her wrapped in cotton wool?

Why can’t she socialise?

Why can’t she go off to college? Live the life she was meant to live?

Why has she got no friends?

When nothing happened to her.

But it almost did. And sometimes when something almost happens its worse than when it actually happens. Why? Because then you have a reason to have panic attacks. There is something keeping you awake at night that then terrorises you when you finally fall asleep. Gives you a reason to be afraid of people and lends purpose to keeping yourself hidden from the world. If something had happened to her she would have been able to tell people what it was, talk about it and people would understand. When it’s only almost well then it didn’t really happen. Jess though doesn’t feel quite like that. Read Almost and you will see why.

You will see why Gray Porter has such a huge impact on her life. Why is he so protective of her and why does it matter to him whether or not she is fixed. Most importantly, why can he not let himself fall for her?

Well now, Anne Eliot almost finished me off with this story. I was choked up reading it. When I wasn’t choked up then that was because I was crying. Like I said before sometimes when something almost happens it is worse than when it does. Almost is beautifully written, a story wonderfully told. It is deep and at times it is sorrowful. However at times it is happy and fun and you get glimpses at how Jess could enjoy living if only she could step away from her past. I spent the book hoping that she could just do that and at the same time wondering whether or not Gray Porter was going to make her or break her.

I highly recommend this book to everyone. Anyone who has read it has come back and told me how much they loved it and how emotional it made them.

I was actually reminded of it the other day. I have been using the tagline “Boys in books are better”, I knew I read it somewhere but I couldn’t remember where. My friend said “Oh I totally loved that book” to which I replied “What book?” When she said Almost the penny dropped. So Anne Eliot thank you for introducing me to the phrase and I am sorry I stole it 😉

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