tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1266163684096934912024-03-24T13:11:50.612+02:00Alexia's ChroniclesAlexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-8546237082649029752013-06-06T08:13:00.001+02:002013-06-06T08:15:55.794+02:00Hotness Monsters of Note<div style="text-align: justify;">This post is dedicated to all my book boyfriends... the boyfriends that I will never willingly choose in real life! They are egotistical, controlling, stubborn, dangerous and most of them want to drink blood or have some other crazy paranormal trait. Complete and total hardcore Alpha Males. *shivers* </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In real life - If a big hunk of a man ever had to chase me down the road flashing fangs and growling something like "come here" or "you will be mine" I think I just might <strike>wet myself</strike> bitch slap him - not that it would do them any harm (because they are all mighty, possessive, hotness on a friggin' stick and just plain WOW). *drools* </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyways, before I get carried away in my own thoughts... Here are my book boyfriends... (please note I said <i>my... </i>as in <i>mine not yours </i>*smiles menacingly*)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSRXlhbGNLa_2Nizn9Q0UywrJjz_9DyvCr7JaDvDtjtOQx6OS6iuJYA2MG7ojmUQy0ru0FMt8-65U9xoqyi33XG6egimdjuIYrNYZfeBB88onnMmwrGG231a4dZSl1ylKUL6vxc4VFscz/s1600/TB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSRXlhbGNLa_2Nizn9Q0UywrJjz_9DyvCr7JaDvDtjtOQx6OS6iuJYA2MG7ojmUQy0ru0FMt8-65U9xoqyi33XG6egimdjuIYrNYZfeBB88onnMmwrGG231a4dZSl1ylKUL6vxc4VFscz/s200/TB.jpg" width="130" /></a></div></div><br />
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<blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><b><b><i>ERIC NORTHMAN</i></b></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mr Northman hails from the land of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0441018238/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0441018238&linkCode=as2&tag=alesmi-20"><b>Sookie Stackhouse Series</b></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0441018238" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
by Charlaine Harris</div><div style="text-align: left;">This devious vampy viking has beautiful chompers and captured my attention from the get go... he is ruthless, manipulative and hot as hell! </div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQR2OW6B_NlsuuxHk67pMVu77sz1azK3szY_NCkVJdnU6w5sPhg_7rIEIYigs05sP2u5kKXuKBwJKeDP3uqO6nUHJDm9PX2xyskrc_Z5VxTxfP43Itu5ja2ZLE7tS4UcoG1K5ONxwGrKe/s1600/VA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQR2OW6B_NlsuuxHk67pMVu77sz1azK3szY_NCkVJdnU6w5sPhg_7rIEIYigs05sP2u5kKXuKBwJKeDP3uqO6nUHJDm9PX2xyskrc_Z5VxTxfP43Itu5ja2ZLE7tS4UcoG1K5ONxwGrKe/s200/VA.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<blockquote><div style="text-align: right;"><b><i>DIMITRI BELIKOV</i></b></div><div style="text-align: right;">Dimitri is from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=vampire%20academy%20series&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=vampire%20aca%2Cstripbooks%2C595&tag=alesmi-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks" target="_blank"><b>Vampire Academy</b></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />by Richelle Mead</div><div style="text-align: right;">Blood Promise, book 4 in the series is my favourite - Dimitri becomes the 'baddy'... the irresistible, hotness on a stick kind of monster that you just want to sink your claws into <br />
*ahem*... *fans self* moving on...</div></blockquote><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52TF24RgFEhsW3B6mafzRwNfkFC9Cjuq-RX9LgDrJrNq0hNVYQp5Bvks6nqw693fFN4tcd6cONm5YA_BC0YH1Jaow1NErWCnhRMezfRAlM1PiUdQVBrRTMiLUT-pxWNOIhlydQWKCFT5T/s1600/dftd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52TF24RgFEhsW3B6mafzRwNfkFC9Cjuq-RX9LgDrJrNq0hNVYQp5Bvks6nqw693fFN4tcd6cONm5YA_BC0YH1Jaow1NErWCnhRMezfRAlM1PiUdQVBrRTMiLUT-pxWNOIhlydQWKCFT5T/s200/dftd.jpg" width="124" /></a></div><br />
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<blockquote><b><i>MALKOM SLAINE</i></b> <br />
Malkom comes from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1439123128/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1439123128&linkCode=as2&tag=alesmi-20"><b>Demon from the Dark</b></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-0&l=as2&o=1&a=1439123128" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, book 10 in the Immortals After Dark Series by Kresley Cole<br />
It's no secret that I have a major book boner for Malkom Slaine. This barbaric, possessive, demon/vampire makes my bones turn into jello!</blockquote><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4Nsj7C9Y6IIf982Rx0_O5HTsRxaWVcH-ANfkFh3vgt1rJBsjP6q3Vu6qajtRYKYDJH5UAblWsRPMymvfCuGFDYPrMnZwTKxtXgK2htGtMCv_nQU2eRbWiUAVJOK_SzcRuZRg9AUEm-F4/s1600/nh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4Nsj7C9Y6IIf982Rx0_O5HTsRxaWVcH-ANfkFh3vgt1rJBsjP6q3Vu6qajtRYKYDJH5UAblWsRPMymvfCuGFDYPrMnZwTKxtXgK2htGtMCv_nQU2eRbWiUAVJOK_SzcRuZRg9AUEm-F4/s200/nh.jpg" width="116" /></a><br />
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<blockquote><b></b><div style="text-align: right;"><b><b><i>BONES</i></b></b></div><div style="text-align: right;">This English vampire is from <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=night%20huntress%20series%20by%20jeaniene%20frost&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=night%20huntress%20%2Cstripbooks%2C405&tag=alesmi-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks" target="_blank">Night Huntress Series</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b>by Jeaniene Frost</div><div style="text-align: right;">He drives me <i>insane, </i>and yet I just can't get enough of him. Bones can kidnap me any day... actually I'll tell him where I'll be - give him all the specifics *giggles*</div></blockquote><b></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpxDDM2MHF6Z8IVMId2a1S2DW_tRWZSPHDTxPdqDmJoU_gg9ysyPAUMmyUGBHya1eH9helMxlmi7blwEvQIr08tH3L8gRh7fYeBh-D_ZdqV6MUqvYfZIltOFV5EdqvoEdgkMXU5CPRHAh/s1600/cd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpxDDM2MHF6Z8IVMId2a1S2DW_tRWZSPHDTxPdqDmJoU_gg9ysyPAUMmyUGBHya1eH9helMxlmi7blwEvQIr08tH3L8gRh7fYeBh-D_ZdqV6MUqvYfZIltOFV5EdqvoEdgkMXU5CPRHAh/s200/cd.jpg" width="130" /></a></div><b><i><br />
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<blockquote><b><i>REYES FARROW</i></b><br />
The son of Satan is from the <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=charley%20davidson%20series&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Acharley%20davidson%20series&sprefix=Charley%20David%2Cstripbooks%2C359&tag=alesmi-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks" target="_blank">Charley Davidson Series</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b>by Darynda Jones<br />
Yes... the son of Satan - as naughty and dangerous as they get!! Reyes is a hotness monster on a stick dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with diamonds! <br />
*wipes drool*</blockquote><b></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf9tOtzUomHJXk4w-UDb9Vcx345bSIZOoT9-7K62oUwzRNqVIHrOEZrwF-PyAbSOFMOL4aqtqrbalC9SlNGeAROsYMG0iFFJAiXIWWgIi2LBZcrdg1EuJcaIdhTPHtuWxiIClLxbbHcUm/s1600/Darkfever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf9tOtzUomHJXk4w-UDb9Vcx345bSIZOoT9-7K62oUwzRNqVIHrOEZrwF-PyAbSOFMOL4aqtqrbalC9SlNGeAROsYMG0iFFJAiXIWWgIi2LBZcrdg1EuJcaIdhTPHtuWxiIClLxbbHcUm/s200/Darkfever.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
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<blockquote><b></b><div style="text-align: right;"><b><b><i>JERICHO BARRONS</i></b></b></div><div style="text-align: right;">Mr Barrons is from the <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=fever%20series%20karen%20marie%20moning&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Afever%20series%20karen%20marie%20moning&sprefix=fever%20series%2Cstripbooks%2C359&tag=alesmi-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks" target="_blank">Fever Series</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b>by Karen Marie Moning</div><div style="text-align: right;">This man-beast is a force to be reckoned with... holy crow... he is overbearing, manipulative, protective and just plain HAWT! <br />
I want, I want, I want *stomps foot*</div></blockquote><b></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">So that's it for my book boyfriends... Do you fancy any of these delicious Alpha Males??</div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s320/Alexia+signature.png" /></a>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-49925870505616210492013-06-04T08:54:00.000+02:002013-06-04T08:54:30.909+02:00Review: Dark Secrets<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi64RqFvAfPzLozE4ml4TN1VcrWnTZjEtqLteUvQbt50ntAkcqf7qZiwUUBPswxqgYy7p27xh73dkgVjnr9t9mKnajAGxsFjf3h17vETgQqTANxez-g5AWEUWZGzg8PdIjgnDbePGpfJx3/s1600/15780485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi64RqFvAfPzLozE4ml4TN1VcrWnTZjEtqLteUvQbt50ntAkcqf7qZiwUUBPswxqgYy7p27xh73dkgVjnr9t9mKnajAGxsFjf3h17vETgQqTANxez-g5AWEUWZGzg8PdIjgnDbePGpfJx3/s320/15780485.jpg" /></a> <br />
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Dark Secrets [Cursed in Darkness #4]<br />
By <b><a href="http://natalie-c-hancock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Natalie Hancock</a></b><br />
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</b> <b><a href="http://natalie-c-hancock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cursed in Darkness Series:</a></b><br />
Eternal Darkness #1 - <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-eternal-darkness.html" target="_blank">review</a></b><br />
Dark Shadows #2 - <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-dark-shadows.html" target="_blank">review</a></b><br />
Dark Awakening #3 - <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/08/review-dark-awakening.html" target="_blank">review</a></b><br />
<b>Dark Secrets #4</b><br />
Ascend From Darkness #5<br />
Darkness Arising #6<br />
Darkness Unveiled #7<br />
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</b> <b><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15780485-dark-secrets" target="_blank">From Goodreads:</a></i></b><br />
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The hunter has made himself known, and now everyone is gone. Layla and a few others are now being hunted and have become hunters themselves. They must travel through an underground cave in order to get to those they love and Layla is not stopping for anything.</div>
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There are other creatures in the cave which they encounter, and some they wish not to even see, and with no success. Their lives, and those who have been taken, are on the line, and the farther they walk through the cave, the more they are faced with danger, the more Layla struggles to keep her deep dark secrets just that - a secret. It is not that simple, however. And as the secrets unfold, the hunter closes in.</div>
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Will it be too late for Layla to save the others?</div>
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Buy on: <b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008V2B2UQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008V2B2UQ&linkCode=as2&tag=alesmi-20%22%3EAmazon%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B008V2B2UQ%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon</a></b></div>
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Cover swoon!! As you know I'm a total and complete cover whore and Natalie Hancock has fed my appetite 100% with the covers for Cursed in Darkness Series - I mean really now... I'm running out of drool here.</div>
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In my previous reviews (which I hope all you lovelies have read, <strike>I'll hunt you down if you didn't</strike> I'll be very sad if you didn't) you see how much I adore Layla! This chick is a total bad ass with more secrets than a body builder on steroids has muscles - just friggin' LOVE her, any ways... in Dark Secrets she BLEW MY MIND TO FUCKING PIECES!<br />
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I let the shadows conceal me once more, as I moved across the gap between us, anger fueling me as I went. I appeared once more, squatted in front of the shocked and scared vampire. "Watch what you say, I am not known for holding my temper. You should have remembered that last time you angered me."</blockquote>
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BOOYAH! In your face!</div>
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Natalie Hancock <i>killed</i> with Dark Secrets - it is so well written that you are like..."what the fuck just happened? NO! Wait... What?" It is awe-inspiring, jaw dropping, gob stopping fucking brilliant. All of Layla's secrets come to light, her past, that she's kept so annoyingly well hidden <i>finally</i> gets revealed and with that 3 major (and I mean MAJOR) secrets get outed. I was shocked! </div>
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Touchy subject here - My male boo-boo-kins, Shade... <i>tsk tsk</i>...so disappointed in you! You need to score some brownie points before you get back into my good books. But no worries, Hayden kept me sated while you were out being an asshole. Although Shade had a very good reason for doing what he did, I'm still pissed. The sexual tension between Shade and Layla is as hot and mind blowing as ever... like slide off your chair mind blowing. *fans self*<br />
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There are also a few new characters and I'm excited to read more about them in <b><a href="http://natalie-c-hancock.blogspot.com/p/ascend-from-darkness_19.html" target="_blank">Ascend from Darkness #5</a></b></div>
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The <b>Queen of Cliffhangers </b>strikes again... Seriously Natalie, you are killing me!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>
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Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-50882162339663521392013-05-06T07:42:00.000+02:002013-05-06T08:02:47.889+02:00Review: Edge of Disaster <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Edge of Disaster<br />
By <strong><a href="http://amhargrove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A.M Hargrove</a></strong><br />
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<strong><em><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17155022-edge-of-disaster" target="_blank">From Goodreads</a>:</em></strong><br />
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<span id="freeText3423731339464556707">Alexia Hammond, broken and destroyed by a tragedy she can’t seem to recover from, is on a downward spiral toward destruction. A life of partying, alcohol, drugs and men has brought her near the edge of disaster. That is until one night while at work as a waitress in an upscale restaurant, she falls under the spell of one of her customers, Pearce Middleton. </span></div>
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Once she gazes into his smoky gray eyes, her life takes on new meaning. But can she put her past behind her and allow herself to fall for the exciting and gorgeous Pearce, or will her lewd behavior come back to haunt her and ruin her chances of happiness forever?</div>
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Buy on Amazon: <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1481891243/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1481891243">Paperback</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1481891243" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" />| <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AR2V1CM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AR2V1CM">E-book</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00AR2V1CM" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /></strong></div>
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Wowee! Completely different to the author's previous novels, but AH-mazing! The cover is uber smexy! Absolutely loved the development of the characters, especially the main character Alexia (and not just because we have the same name)... oh and Pearce - <em>YES PLEASE</em>! I'd like one of those dipped in chocolate! All in all - fabulous story line and an awesome read. <br />
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Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-83411950081015245322013-02-02T16:39:00.000+02:002013-02-02T16:39:27.582+02:00Review: The Destiny of Shaitan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The Destiny of Shaitan<br />
By <b>Laxmi Hariharan</b><br />
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<b><i>From Goodreads:</i></b><br />
When Yudi, Tiina & Rai embark on a mission to save the universe, they come up against the ruthless Shaitan who is determined to stop them at any cost. But they soon realise they have a bigger enemy - themselves. So they must learn to trust each other and overcome their fears as they fight their way towards the ultimate showdown. <br />
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Partially set in a dystopian Bombay of the future, The Destiny of Shaitan is a coming of age story, painted against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world. <br />
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Yudi, Tiina and Rai are destined to come together, for they are the Chosen Ones. It falls to them to save the universe from the powerful Shaitan, who is terrifying, and utterly merciless. Driven by greed, and fear for his own survival, Shaitan bulldozes his way through the galaxy, destroying anything that gets in his path, including his lovers and his own children. The battle between the Chosen Ones and Shaitan is a classic, epic encounter. Hated and feared by all, Shaitan must win this fight to keep his power. The stakes are high, the combatants are determined, and no matter what the outcome their lives will be changed for all time.<br />
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Buy on Amazon: <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1477678271/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1477678271&linkCode=as2&tag=ritkalsboor04-20">Paperback</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007M2IBH8/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007M2IBH8&linkCode=as2&tag=ritkalsboor04-20">Ebook</a></b></div>
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The Destiny of Shaitan, or TDOS in short is the first science fiction and fantasy combination I have read which builds on Indian mythology. This, by itself is a big draw for me. However, I’ll try to not let my review be coloured by this fact too much. Also, like most fantasy stories, this one too is a fight between good and evil.</div>
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The story of TDOS is set in the year 3000 and beyond, where the solar system as we know it has been restructured. There are a few new planets which have come into the picture, and all the planets in the solar system are now habitable with species of all kinds. Earth is still considered to be the mother planet, and humans have mated with the sentient beings of other planets to create genetically mixed Halfings. This is the story of four of these Halflings, and how they impact the future of the universe.</div>
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This might be an epic story, but the beauty of the book is in the characters. There are four main characters, and a number of side characters in the book. Each of the four main characters’ lives is explored over a period of time. A sequence of events brings them together, and then tears them apart. Each of these characters’ lives is defined by their painful loss of a loved one. This loss is what pushes them to the brink from which they are able to come back. They all go through life alone, not knowing true love. I am amazed by how the author is able to bring out perfectly how these defining moments tie the entire story together. Just for this perfection, I would recommend this book.</div>
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Among the characters, I really liked Tiina and Rai’s characters. However, I could not really stand Yudi’s character. He is extremely selfish and does not care about anyone but himself. Shaitan comes across as more human than I expected. He has his own flaws, which, in the end result in his downfall. All the characters grow immensely during the story, which I think is a standard feature in most YA novels.</div>
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The author explores a number of issues, some of which are a staple in YA novels. Friendship, love, hate and betrayal are all part of the story. They permeate every aspect of the relationships between the characters. One interesting thing was that the author decided to make one of the characters gay. This however does not impact the story one bit. I don’t know the reasoning behind the decision for this, but it is something which I find unique and nice.</div>
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There are a couple of things which made it difficult for me to enjoy the story as much as I could have. The author has written a part of the book in present tense, and another part in past tense. The past tense makes sense when the author is narrating the history of each character, but I did not find this consistent. There were sentences in past tense even when we are at a point in the story which is happening right now, in the present. These kinds of tense changes, sometimes within the same paragraph, threw me off. I really believe that better editing and consistency would have helped me enjoy the book a lot more.</div>
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There is a huge build up to the entire showdown with Shaitan. And there is a lot of action towards the end of the book. These are both really well executed. But, when it comes to a one-on-one fight, it ends without so much as a whimper. This results in all those expectations of an epic battle to be dashed. I think that part of the book could be better than what it is at present. </div>
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Overall, this is a great start to the series, and I am really looking forward to reading the second installment. I would recommend the Destiny of Shaitan to anyone who likes the fantasy and/or SF genre.<br />
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Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-44032339251046848762013-01-17T08:58:00.001+02:002013-01-17T15:31:52.930+02:00We're BACK!! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Yes, you read that right... finally we are back in action and ready to rumble! </div>
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<em>SLACKER!</em> You have my permission to call us - well me mostly - a slacker. I have been a terrible blogger, reviewer, reader and friend for the past few months... life got in the way. Ritesh and I just want to give you the run down on what has been happening with us that we've been so quiet and withdrawn.</div>
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These last few months have been a total scary and thrilling as hell roller coaster ride for me. I was retrenched in July 2012 - not cool, but I got over the emotional side of it quickly enough with the help of my family and my wonderful co-blogger Ritesh! </div>
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With the retrenchment I had a lot of pent up frustration so I decided to take up a new sport... Cage Fighting. Yup... Cage Fighting. My style is Kickboxing and it's an absolute blast! </div>
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It took a while for my friends and family, especially Ritesh to back me on this new adventure... but they all came around and are now my biggest supporters! I still get the stinky eye from R when I have a black eye or swollen nose though. Any who... I have completely thrown myself into the sport and train Monday - Saturday while preparing for my first fight which was on December 1st. The peeps at the club have dubbed me 'The Reaper' - so that is my fighting name. </div>
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There is a few positive notes to this... being the only chick in the club that does fighting has it's 'swoon worthy moments' - being surrounded by muscle for a photoshoot <em>SCORE!</em> :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuLEkPg_lRzMJ7A7JZ8kr_jFQOynC5QIjlsj8zhJNOsOnXsstE7F-UTKOmDX0R5vqTbuL3pTuwy-uobeIj6PgLtP1G8r0kvURvm8Gr6zEHRe2HlNRSqRZslB4gx-2ueU7k-tCE38euWT7/s1600/fight+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuLEkPg_lRzMJ7A7JZ8kr_jFQOynC5QIjlsj8zhJNOsOnXsstE7F-UTKOmDX0R5vqTbuL3pTuwy-uobeIj6PgLtP1G8r0kvURvm8Gr6zEHRe2HlNRSqRZslB4gx-2ueU7k-tCE38euWT7/s320/fight+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Since July 2012 I have been training like a mad woman, going for interviews and working as a Temp in a company. Oh... I tried my hand at dating too - good lawd what happened to the nice dudes?? Any who - December 2012 was my big<em> 'whoop whoop'</em> moment - I was offered a permanent position at the firm I was Temping for, I finished my fight and was on the road to recovery (yeah, I was limping like an idiot) AND *drum roll* my boyfriend and I made it official - yes, we changed our relationship status on Facebook haha! (We'd been secretely dating for a few months). </div>
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As for getting back to reading / reviewing / blogging - it'll be a slow process. I am still crazy busy and I need to manage my time better... so until I get into a new routine please be patient with us. We will basically just be posting reviews and one or two other posts, but no author interviews, blogger interviews or taking part in all the memes again - only until we are back on our feet... then things will proceed as before! I have a major back log on reviews that I need to do (*ahem* yes Ms. Hancock I did not forget about your books *winks*) so we will still not be accepting book review requests until we are up to date!</div>
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I have missed all your beautiful faces and 'hanging out' with you guys... looking forward to getting back into my blogger community! *Much love and many smooches*</div>
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Hey everyone. I know we went MIA without a word, but believe me we had some reasons, which I consider to be absolutely valid. Want to hear my reason?<br />
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Life got in the way!</blockquote>
In the last few months, I've taken on a number of projects which have kept me extremely busy, and have not allowed me the time to do anything other than work. Well, almost anything. Being bitten by the reading bug, I just could not get myself to give up on it. This has meant a lot of long nights and early mornings. Long nights due the the fact, that I always wanted to read just that "one final chapter" before I slept. Early mornings, as I wanted to get a head start on work.<br />
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Let me take you quickly through all the exciting things that are happening. Sometime around August of last year, I was pulled into a critical project at work, which lasted for about 4 months. This project has led to a complete redefintion of my work profile, for the better. And, it has made me really enjoy my work.<br />
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Then, some time in November, a friend and I decided to take the plunge, and initiate work on a new business. Although, we're just starting out, I think this is something that has got real potential to become a big thing. We're running around to get it off the ground right now, and I'll be able to give you more details and updates on this in a few months. For now, everything is under wraps.<br />
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I did get a couple of big surprises recently. First, Alexia got me the BEST present for my birthday. I am sure quite a few of you will be able to guess that it had something to do with books. Of course, can there be anything better? She got me ..... ..... ...... wait for it! ..... ..... .....<br />
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<b><i>Darynda Jones's Charlie Davidson Series books 1 & 2 !!!</i></b></div>
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I've had my eyes on these for quite a while, and they're among my all time favourite series!<br />
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Besides this, I recently got FOUR author signed books! Susan Ee was gracious enough to send me a signed copy. Then, Laxmi Hariharan completely overwhelmed me by mentioning me in the credits of her book, and sending me a signed copy. And finally, I got to meet an author at a book signing, where I was able to get a signed book. And, I won author Scott Cramer's Night of the Purple Moon.<br />
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Recently, I was actually able to meet Laxmi Hariharan when she had come down to India for the launch of a book written by her husband, Naman Ramchandran. The book is currently on a number of best seller lists in India, and is the biography of India's biggest superstar, Rajnikanth.<br />
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And, the most exciting news of all. In October last year, I became the proud uncle of my second niece! How cool is that?<br />
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So, all in all, this has been an exciting few months. Things have settled down enough for the both of us, where we can again start getting back to our passion, books and blogging.<br />
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All I can say is that, this is going to take a little while, getting used to. So bear with us, as we get back on our feet. I'm really excited to be back among my blogger and author friends.<br />
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Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-79271196307767557862012-08-14T20:21:00.001+02:002012-08-14T20:21:27.419+02:00Blog Tour: Stone of Darkness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today we have the brilliant author Resa Nelson on the blog for her blog tour of Book 3 in the Dragonslayer series. Fantasy is something we both love, so this fits perfectly on the blog. So, without further delay, let's get the interview started!<br />
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<b><i>Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into?</i></b></div>
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I guess it’s epic fantasy, but I also blend genres. I strive to write page turners, because I don’t want my readers to get bored. There’s usually some type of mystery going on, and sometimes it leans toward the mystery/thriller genre. My books can get pretty dark, so I also strive to throw in as much humor as possible to give my books some balance.</div>
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<b><i>How did you come up with the idea for the series? </i></b></div>
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Many years ago I was propositioned by a co-worker (a married man with two young children). Like a lot of writers, I write to work through my problems. So I wrote a short story about a female blacksmith who makes swords for dragonslayers. When a new dragonslayer propositions her, she doesn’t know what to do because if she doesn’t keep his weapons in good working order then his inability to fight dragons can place all her friends and neighbours at risk. When the story was published there was a huge reader response, which made me think about turning it into a novel. It took me 8 years to figure out how to do that. And once I started writing the novel, I realized the story and the world I had created were much bigger than I’d first imagined. So by the time I finished writing Book 1, I pretty much had the whole series in my head.</div>
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<b><i>When and why did you begin writing?</i></b></div>
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Before I knew how to write, I was always making up stories to entertain myself. But when I was in 2nd grade I had a group assignment to rewrite a classic children’s story and create large illustrations to go along with it. I had the most fun working on that project with two of my favorite classmates. And when we gave our presentation to the rest of the class, we were a big hit. (At least, that’s the way I remember it!) So I was hooked. That’s when I knew I wanted to write books.</div>
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<b><i>How has your journey from writing to getting published been?</i></b></div>
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Epic! I knew it would take me a long time to learn how to write a good novel, so I started out with short stories. I was lucky enough to be accepted to the Clarion SF Workshop, which changed my life in lots of different ways. I’d sold a few stories to small press magazines before Clarion, but afterwards I broke into professional publications. About 15 years ago, the first novel I wrote was accepted by one of the top publishing houses in the world – but 6 months later they decided it was too risky to buy first novels and withdrew their offer. That experience almost broke me in half. But I kept writing and working at my craft. Fortunately, when I wrote my first Dragonslayer novel I did some research about the current state of the publishing industry and decided to submit to smaller publishing houses. I was so lucky to find my publisher, Mundania Press! They’re amazing!</div>
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<b><i>Who is your favourite character? Is there a character in the series you think the readers will hate?</i></b></div>
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I have to say my favorite character is Astrid, the main character, mostly because I identify with her so much. And I know there are characters that readers hate because I’ve already heard from them! That’s fine, because they’re villainous characters. Some of the villains in my Dragonslayer series are men who genuinely believe that women cause all the problems in the world and therefore must be controlled. But there are also female characters who are villains. I’d much rather have readers hate characters than be bored with them!</div>
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<b><i>What were the challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing it to life?</i></b></div>
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I want my Dragonslayer world to feel as real as possible, so the first challenge was to overcome my fear of learning about history, which is what I consider to be my weakest area of knowledge. That involved reading a lot of books and taking lots of notes. It was also a challenge to figure out how to learn about blacksmithing and medieval weapons beyond just reading about them, but I found courses that I took in blacksmithing and in learning historically accurate ways to use weapons from the Middle Ages. That was a blast! From a literary point of view, I focus very heavily on theme, so it’s mostly a matter of constantly working at my craft to become a better writer. I’m a big fan of sociology and psychology, so I really enjoy creating and developing characters. The challenge is always figuring out what they want and what they need and what obstacles to throw at them. For logistics, it was a matter of forging ahead and writing the book while I was taking my blacksmithing and weapons courses and having the faith that I could go back and incorporate everything I was learning in chapters I’d already written.</div>
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<b><i>Who designed the covers of the books?</i></b></div>
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Her name is Ana Winson, and she’s one of the artists used by my publisher. Isn’t her work fabulous?</div>
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<b><i>If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books?</i></b></div>
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I don’t think so. I think through my books very carefully before I write them. Right now there are about 20 unwritten books in my head, including 4 series. One of those series has been in my head for most of my life – it’s going to require a huge amount of research, and I’m just not ready to write it yet. But I pretty much know my books inside and out before I commit anything to paper.</div>
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<b><i>What are your current projects? When is the next book in the series coming out? Could you describe what happens in the next book in the series?</i></b> </div>
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The next (and last) book in the Dragonslayer series is coming out in November! It wraps up the series and answers a lot of questions. That’s about all I can say without going into spoiler territory. And remember the book I mentioned a moment ago – the one I wrote that was accepted and then rejected by a major publishing house? I’d given up on it years ago, but I’ve figured out how to rewrite it from scratch. Right now I’m in outline mode, and I plan to start writing it in September. I’m so excited about it!</div>
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<b><i>What book are you reading now? Which are your all-time favourite authors / books?</i></b></div>
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I’m reading two books: “See You ‘Round the Square,” a mainstream novel by Berry & Croft and “In the Garden of Beasts” by Eric Larson. My favourite authors are Harlan Coben and Dennis Lehane – I love mysteries and thrillers. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for Poe, Dickens, Ray Bradbury, and Agatha Christie.</div>
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<b><i>Give us three “Good to Know” facts about you, something you could not read just about anywhere.</i></b></div>
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1. I hate shoes. I’m barefoot most of the time.</div>
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2. When I was a kid, one of my responsibilities was to catch lizards that had wandered into the house and then set them free. I love lizards.</div>
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3. I’m committed to physical fitness because I’ve studied human biology and anatomy, and I know what’s going to happen if I don’t take care of my body. I exercise every day, switching between step aerobics, dance aerobics, and yoga. I also walk at least 2 miles every day, which I count as writing time because I think through what I’m working on at the moment.</div>
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<b><i>Do you have anything specific that you want to say to readers?</i></b></div>
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Thank you so much to everyone who has read one or more of my books! I know there are a bazillion books out there and so many choices. It means a lot to me when someone takes a chance on my work. I want to make it easy for readers to sample my work, and that’s why I have a “mini” ebook of two Dragonslayer short stories that anyone can download from my website (at http://www.resanelson.com/files). It’s a way for people to try my work and see for themselves if they like it or not.</div>
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<b><i>Can you tell us more about the world in your books?</i></b></div>
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I think it’s a world that’s parallel to ours, and I modelled it on the beginning of the Viking era. Some people are shapeshifters, but shapeshifting works based on how you perceive yourself and other people. Ghosts are real and play a very important role throughout the series. And there are two different types of dragons: one type is an overgrown lizard that’s extremely dangerous, and the other type can shapeshift between the form of a dragon and mortal form.</div>
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<b><i>How do you come up with names for the characters and places in your books?</i></b></div>
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For character names, I try to either find a name or make up one that reflects whatever country or culture each character comes from. I try to do the same kind of thing with place names. For example, I see one country as somewhat similar to a blend of Spain and Italy. I’m a big fan of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, so I named a town after one of his works.</div>
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<b><i>Which do you think is more important, world building or character building?</i></b></div>
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I see them as being the same thing, because characters are so much a part of the world. For example, in one country in my Dragonslayer world, when a woman is challenged as having done something wrong, she must defend herself in an organized fight but steps are taken to give her equal footing against her opponent. But if that same woman is challenged in any other country, she can ask a man to fight on her behalf. These rules (which are based on what happened in our world during the Middle Ages) are a part of my world building, but the way each character responds to these rules is a part of character building.</div>
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<b><i>How easy is it for you to write non-human characters, with each having different ‘quirks’?</i></b></div>
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I write non-human characters in the same way I write human characters. I see them as having distinct personalities and wants and needs. There just happens to be something about them that doesn’t qualify them as “human.”</div>
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<b>Quick-fire questions:</b></div>
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<b><i>ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover?</i></b></div>
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Paperbacks.</div>
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<b><i>Cats or dogs?</i></b></div>
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Dogs.</div>
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<b><i>Coffee or tea?</i></b></div>
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Tea. </div>
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<b><i>Favourite food?</i></b></div>
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Chocolate!</div>
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<b><i>Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream?</i></b></div>
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Chocolate!</div>
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<b><i>What are 4 things you never leave home without?</i></b></div>
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Keys, sunglasses, clothing, and (ugh!) shoes.</div>
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<b><i>Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?</i></b></div>
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At home in the space I’ve created for writing. At the moment that’s my dining room table.</div>
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<b><i>If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you any why?</i></b></div>
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Frankly, I can’t think of anyone famous I’d like to be stranded with. I’d choose someone who knows how to grow food, someone who knows how to filter water, and someone who knows how to build a ship! I’m all about being practical.</div>
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<b><i>List 3 of your all-time favourite movies?</i></b></div>
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Cat Ballou</div>
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My Best Friend’s Wedding</div>
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Blue, White, and Red (the trilogy)</div>
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<b><i>What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?</i></b></div>
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Brave. What a wonderful and unique story!</div>
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<b>About author Resa Nelson</b><br />
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Resa Nelson has been selling fiction professionally since 1988. She is a longtime member of SFWA (Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America) and is a graduate of the Clarion SF Workshop.</div>
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Resa was also the TV/Movie Columnist for Realms of Fantasy magazine for 13 years and was a contributor to SCI FI magazine. She has sold over 200 articles to magazines in the United States and the United Kingdom.</div>
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Her first novel, The Dragonslayer’s Sword, was nominated for the Nebula Award and was also a Finalist for the EPPIE Award. This medieval fantasy novel is based on a short story first published in the premiere issue of Science Fiction Age magazine and ranked 2nd in that magazine's first Readers Top Ten Poll. The Dragonslayer's Sword is Book 1 in her 4-book Dragonslayer series. Book 2, The Iron Maiden, was published last December, Book 3 was published in May, and the final book in the series is scheduled for publication in November.</div>
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Resa's standalone novel, Our Lady of the Absolute, is a fantasy/mystery/thriller about a modern-day society based on ancient Egypt. Midwest Book Review gave this book a 5-star review, calling it "a riveting fantasy, very highly recommended."</div>
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Resa lives in Massachusetts.</div>
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You can find Resa here:<br />
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| <a href="http://www.resanelson.com/"><b>Website</b></a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/landing/B002C78D2Q/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&tag=ritkalsboor04-20" target="_blank"><b>Amazon</b></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=ritkalsboor04-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1998294.Resa_Nelson"><b>Goodreads Author Page</b></a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ResaNelson"><b>Twitter</b></a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Resa-Nelson-The-Dragonslayers-Sword/122200661871"><b>Facebook</b></a> |</div>
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<b>The Dragonslayer’s Sword (Book 1)</b></div>
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For Astrid, a blacksmith who makes swords for dragonslayers, the emergence of a strange gemstone from her body sets in motion a chain of events that threaten to destroy her life. Her happiness is shattered when her lover--the dragonslayer--disappears without a trace, and the life that she knows and loves implodes without warning.</div>
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Astrid lives in a world of shapeshifters whose thoughts have the power to change not only themselves but others. Everything Astrid knows to be true is called into question when she learns the truth about her past and the mysterious family from which she was separated as a child.</div>
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Reality turns inside out as Astrid gradually learns the truth about the people she loves as well as those she disdains. With the fate of dragons, ghosts, and slaves in foreign lands resting on her shoulders, Astrid faces the challenge of deciding who she is and how she will stand up inside her own skin. Will she withdraw and hide from the world that has disappointed her so much...or will she rise to lead others to freedom and peace?</div>
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<b>The Iron Maiden (Book 2)</b></div>
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Astrid is reluctant to travel the winter route beyond the Northlands, even though it’s her duty. She’d rather stay home in her village, surrounded by friends and neighbors. Ignoring the bonds of tradition, she decides to spend the cold winter months in the warmth of her blacksmithing shop. Why should she leave the comfort of her cottage to serve and protect foreigners who might raid and harm her native Northlands?</div>
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Everything changes when a traveling merchant steals Starlight, the first dragonslayer’s sword Astrid forged and her last link to her sweetheart DiStephan. Having no time to alert her friends, Astrid races in pursuit of the merchant, determined to reclaim Starlight as her own and return home in time for dinner. Instead, her quest leads her to new lands, unexpected friendships with foreigners, and a harrowing encounter with the damage done by the followers of a new god that considers women as nothing more than servants to men. All the while, she must be ready to face any dragon traveling the winter route.</div>
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In Book 2 of the Dragonslayer series, Astrid must learn that deciding who she is isn’t a decision she can make just once. It’s a decision she must make every day.</div>
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<b>The Stone of Darkness (Book 3)</b></div>
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In Book 3 of the Dragonslayer series, Astrid accepts her duty and follows the winter route--until she's bitten by a dragon. Everyone knows dragon bites are poisonous and deadly, so she reluctantly accepts her impending death. In a twist of fate, she survives. Desperate for an explanation, Astrid believes she has somehow been protected by the black stone she keeps with her at all times, a stone that emerged from the sole of her foot a year ago. </div>
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Determined to find out what the stone is and what kind of powers it possesses, Astrid begins a journey that leads her to alchemists and an army of men under the rule of the powerful warrior, Mandulane, the acting lord of the Krystr army. Mandulane's mission is to spread the word of the new god Krystr, which preaches the evil intent of women and the danger they pose to all men, who are entitled to dominate the world. Rumors about this new god and army have spread, but Astrid is the first Northlander to encounter them. </div>
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Soon, she stumbles upon a secret of a far-reaching and mind-numbing plot that will impact the entire world. Astrid must find a way to spread the news of this threat and protect her people and everyone else at risk. She's convinced the answer lies inside the Stone of Darkness, and she must find a way to understand the stone and the powers she's convinced it must hold before it's too late.</div>
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Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-61093398055473988242012-08-07T20:57:00.001+02:002012-08-07T20:57:15.841+02:00I am a Blogger, and I am pissed #3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I've written two posts on this topic previously, and both of them have been received just as I had hoped for. I've had most authors agree, and I hope accept some of these 'mistakes' they make while interacting with bloggers. Both the previous posts resulted in a lot of comments and discussions here on the blog, as well as on a number of Facebook author groups. I was actually surprised to see how receptive these posts have been. Don't get me wrong, I did get a few reactions I had expected in the beginning. A few authors argued that I had no right to point these out, or that bloggers were worse or at least just as guilty. I had a couple of authors post counter arguments to my points in the previous two posts, and I loved that. They were gracious and did not try to bash me. Each post was extremely respectful. For all of this, I am extremely grateful.</div>
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If you'd like to take a look at the previous two posts, head over to check out <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-blogger-and-i-am-pissed-1.html">post number one</a></b> and <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-blogger-and-i-am-pissed-2.html">post number two</a></b>. And to read the author reactions to my posts, check out the replies by author <b><a href="http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.in/2012/07/why-natalie-star-is-pissed.html">Natalie Star</a></b> to post one and author <b><a href="http://tasha-turner.com/im-an-author-and-im-pissed/">Tara Chevrestt</a></b> to post two. With that out of the way, let's get to the third and final post in the series.<br />
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<b>11. Twitter:</b> There are tons of authors and bloggers on twitter. But, there is a dearth of authors (and bloggers) who treat twitter for what it is, a NETWORKING tool. Most just consider it a marketing platform. This makes them do things which get on my nerves sometimes! All I see is links, links and more links! And then there are other things. First, I will not check DMs on twitter as I mostly get spam there. And don’t even get me started on auto-DMs! If I do somehow stumble onto your DM and I see a link requesting me to check out your book on Amazon, subscribe to your blog, or ‘Like’ your author page on Facebook, I will delete it without doing any of those things. I might even unfollow you and, if you still don’t get the message, I might just go ahead and block you. Using the @mention feature is just the same, so doing that does not get you off the hook. Want me to consider your book or your links? Want me to do an interview or feature you on my blog? Then talk to me, get to know me better, interact with me, comment on my content, if you like something RT it. And, after you do all this, go read point number one again in <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-blogger-and-i-am-pissed-1.html">post number one</a></b> (Read the Review Policy).</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>“Thanks for the follow! I’d love if you could review my book or do an interview on your blog! :-)”</i> </span>This one was a DM I got right after I had followed the author back. What do you think happened?</div>
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<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“Thanks for the follow. If you have time check out my brand new Children's book!”</span></i> Children’s book, really?</div>
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<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">“Hi. I was wondering if you could review my book, The Secret To Attaining Wealth. Love to send you an electronic copy. Thanks let me know.”</span></i> Do you even know who I am or what I do? I have done my MBA in Finance and have an inbuilt bullshit detector for all secrets to attaining wealth. I have a secret for you, but you can’t tell anyone! Work hard and love what you do for many years and you will attain wealth!</div>
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And these are just the latest three I have gotten. Another huge problem I have with twitter is the TueTwit validation service. Frankly, if you start with the assumption that I am a spammer, I have no interest in following you. Sorry, I’m out of here and say “Good riddance”!</div>
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Want to learn what to do to make twitter work for you? Check<b><a href="http://www.krusecontrolinc.com/10-sure-fire-ways-to-fail-at-twitter-marketing/"> this post</a></b> out; it has got some really good advice. <i>“Lesson on social media etiquette folks: don't use those programs that automatically calls people out for unfollowing, not following back, etc. It makes you look like a tool.”</i></div>
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<b>12. No means No: </b>When a blogger says that he is not interested in a book and does not want to read it, do not take it as a challenge or a personal insult, just move on to the next blogger. Don't moan about it, or change tactic, or wait a few months and send a request again. I am sure my tastes will not have changed by then. I am actually amazed you can’t find a reviewer who reads in your genre. Or maybe you pissed off all the others too. Anyways, why would you want me to read a book which I do not think I will like? Do you really want to risk getting a One, Two or if I’m feeling generous, Three star review for your book? </div>
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I have a blogger friend who prefers to read YA, romance or erotica only and says so on her blog. And, she gets requests for SF, autobiographies, non-fiction even. She had an author who wrote fantasy who kept pestering her with review requests, and she was always gracious and said no each time. This went on for months! Finally, she just had to stop replying to his emails. Wow!<br />
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<b>13. Behaving on blog tours: </b>Blog tours are one of the best ways to market books for Indie authors today. As bloggers, we tend to host a lot of authors for these tours, and so get to interact with all kinds of authors and blog tour management companies. And, believe me, after hosting a lot of these, I’ve come across the entire gamut of authors, from extremely professional to completely rude, uninterested and bashful. I’ve had authors sending me guest posts, which were shorter than their book blurbs and consisted mainly of self-promotion. I’ve had authors not send me anything at all! I’ve had to follow up with many authors to find out if they received their interview questions or if they actually saw the post on the allotted date. How do you think a blogger feels like, when he has to remind authors time and again to stop by the post and reply to comments?</div>
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And don’t even get me started on badly behaving authors! Just because they pay a company to run their tour, they expect to get glowing reviews for their books. I remember when one author got into a debate with a number of bloggers on a tour because he received 3-star reviews for his book. He went to the extent that he demanded that one of the reviews be removed completely and not be posted to Amazon. And he pestered and threatened the blog tour company to remove said blog from the tour. Final outcome? The blog in question was removed, but I ended up deleting his interview on my blog as I did not want to interview such a petty author. Oh, and the review ended up on Amazon anyways. All we ask is that authors be considerate and professional. How hard is that?</div>
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<b>14. Commenting on blogs: </b>We bloggers love to host authors for guest posts, interviews, cover reveals, book trailer reveals, launch parties, and what not. This is not because of our altruistic nature. We benefit from these as well of course. Guest posts are huge traffic pullers on the blogs I’ve managed. Interviews are an awesome way to get to interact with authors and learn a bit more about them. But, authors have to hold up their end of the bargain, which is to not only get these back to us on time. Once the post is up, the only thing we ask of them is that they stop by the post and reply to the comments that people leave behind after reading it. Tell me, who does this benefit? The authors are getting a ready and interested audience to talk to, and to get them interested in whatever book they have. Is it so hard to take some time out during the day (or night) and stop by to reply to these comments? I can do it for them, but that is not what the readers want!</div>
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<b>15. Replying to ‘bad’ reviews:</b> And finally, to end this series with a bang, let me talk about the biggest and the worst mistake that pisses me off the most. I’ve seen authors giving and being given the advice that replying to bad reviews is a terrible idea. But they just don’t get it, do they? Correcting reviewers about how they interpreted the story wrongly, how they misunderstood the characters, or how they just did not get the story is a TERRIBLE IDEA. Just don’t so it. Walk away. Sulk in the privacy of your home. Talk to someone who would understand your pain, but do it privately. Replying to reviews will not work out, and it will make you seem like a cry-baby. I’ve seen so many tactics being used here, but each and every one of these pisses me off. My review is my interpretation of your book. If I got it wrong or misunderstood it, tough luck. It is your mistake for not writing clearly and not getting your point across. I had one author leave a comment on a review explaining how the main premise of my review was wrong. You know what? I wanted to tell him to make it clear … in the book, not in comments to reviews.</div>
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I know how authors are going to react to this. What about all those malicious reviews which some reviewers like to leave which amount to nothing more than “I hate this, this is rubbish” or “This author does not know how to write, he should have stuck to his old profession”? Here also, I have one advice only. Walk away. Turn around and leave. If a person is going to leave such a review, what do you think will happen if you comment? He and his troll friends will only prey on you more. You know that terrible website called “Stop the GR Bullies”? It would never have happened if authors ignored such reviews. Getting into discussions with such idiots makes you look like a bigger fool, and readers who see it will be turned off from your writing. This is definitely not what you want!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So this brings us to the end of this series. I really hope this has been somewhat helpful, and not many feelings have been hurt. I have enjoyed writing this series immensely and I hope authors take something positive away from this. As always, I'd love to hear your comments about what I am saying. Please be brutally honest!</span></div>
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So AUTHORS, what do you think? Do you think this is too harsh? Do you believe avoiding these 'pitfalls' would help you in getting a better 'hit rate' with bloggers?</div>
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And BLOGGERS, tell me if you've had similar experiences. Also, what is your biggest pet peeve regarding how authors approach you with review requests? Leave a comment below, and I could add it to my ever expanding list. Of course I'll give you due credit to bringing it to my attention and will add a link to your blog to the posts.<br />
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</div>Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-84206036488392026412012-08-01T13:01:00.000+02:002012-08-01T13:01:55.344+02:00Review: Dark Awakening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<blockquote>
Dark Awakening [Cursed in Darkness #3]<br />
By <strong><a href="http://www.cursedindarkness.com/" target="_blank">Natalie Hancock</a></strong><br />
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<strong><a href="http://www.cursedindarkness.com/myseries.html" target="_blank">Cursed in Darkness Series:</a></strong><br />
Eternal Darkness #1 - <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-eternal-darkness.html" target="_blank">See my review</a></strong><br />
Dark Shadows #2 - <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-dark-shadows.html" target="_blank">See my review</a></strong><br />
<strong>Dark Awakening #3</strong><br />
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<strong><em><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15751548-dark-awakening" target="_blank">From Goodreads:</a></em></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">In
the hundred acres of land, more security and more people are watching Layla’s
back now that everyone knows who she is. Layla wants to find the person
responsible for the attacks made at her, just like everyone else, but when an
attack happens to someone other than her, she and Nikalye are the only ones who
know the truth. They are determined to find the culprit once and for all,
before someone else is seriously injured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Layla wishes she could tell Shade everything. He knows something is not right
more than he can make her gasp with pleasure by just saying her name, but she
cannot tell him—she will not risk putting him in danger any more than she has.
She continuously fights for survival to keep herself and those around her
alive, but when more things sinister arrive in the hundred acres of land and
the culprit is revealed, the situation turns from bad to deadly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Will Layla be able to survive?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Buy on: <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008A3LC4C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008A3LC4C">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B008A3LC4C" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
</strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Oh my soul!! Dark Awakening is by far (for me personally)
the best book in the series! I have no words, totally dumbstruck. Just when you
think you have it all figured out, Natalie throws this major curve ball – like
‘in your face’. Brilliant writing and a brilliant story line. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Layla is <i>ah-mazing</i>.
She’s strong willed and stays true to herself and those around her. She is
exactly the type of person you want on your side when shit hits the fan, if
you’re in her bad books – dude, you are SO going down. I absolutely love
Layla’s attitude… she is one tough cookie – piercings and a to-die-for
wardrobe… friggin’ hardcore! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know I always mention the hotness monster in a book,
and if you have a look at my reviews of Eternal Darkness and Dark Shadows
you’ll know exactly how I feel about Shade, also known as Shadaux. Talk about
dark, mysterious, sexy and dangerous – that’s Shade. He is in total control, irresistible and untouchable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Shade and Layla’s relationship is hot, steamy and sexy to
the max. Whenever they are near each other they can’t keep their hands to
themselves. It’s exciting and electrifying! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">“An hour—better hurry, I will be hungry when I hunt you
down.”
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I heard him laugh before he was gone.</span></div>
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<br />
I've decided to change Natalie's title that I gave her in my review of Dark Shadows. She's not the 'Queen of Cliffhangers', no no no, she is now the Queen <em>BEE</em> of Cliffhangers... because her infuriating cliffhangers leave a major sting behind. Why, oh why, does Miss Hancock torture me so??</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-8898625953170974212012-07-31T12:01:00.000+02:002012-07-31T12:01:39.480+02:00I am a blogger, and I am pissed! #2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The first post in the series got a lot of comments and interactions. If you've not read the first post, you can <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.in/2012/07/i-am-blogger-and-i-am-pissed-1.html">check it out here</a>. </b>After going through all the reactions, as well as reading through and participating in discussions about the first post on a number of groups, I'd like to clarify something here. These posts are in no way a generalization, and I am definitely NOT saying that most authors are like this. It is a few who are doing these things, and many more who may be unaware how irksome these things are to bloggers.<br />
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My only hope here is that, authors can read these posts, and just learn something which may help in creating better relations between bloggers and authors. So, let's continue!<br />
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<b>6. Put out a good book:</b> I’ve read so many books with a great story that were in desperate need of an editor. Spelling mistakes, bad grammar, wrong usage of words, plot holes, missing words, bad formatting, you name it. I know good editors are costly and not every author can afford one. But, in that case get good beta readers, alpha readers or any readers to help you spot mistakes you can’t find. I really do hate giving a good book a bad rating. Another thing authors could do to make a great book would be to get a professional cover designer if they can’t do a great cover themselves. That is why I always ask for a book cover along with a review request. There have been so many books I have seen and ignored because of bad covers. I’ll never know if I missed reading a great book because of this. </div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">~Alexia: Ditto! I’m a cover whore! If the cover doesn’t attract my attention I usually don’t read the synopsis or for that matter the book.</span><br />
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<b>7. Help the blogs in return:</b> I’ve agreed to do that review, author interview or guest post? Great! All I ask in return is that authors promote THEIR posts on our blog. How hard is that? You can’t take out the time to promote your own post? I had a few authors who recommended me, and mentioned me as a helpful blogger to their networks. I just loved it and will now do anything for them. See how both of us benefit?<br />
In a similar vein, being there to respond to comments on your posts is something I should not have to ask for, but I have learnt my lesson. I now don’t expect authors to stop by unless I badger them to take a look and reply.<br />
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<b>8. “Demanding” reviews:</b> So, I’ve accepted your book to review? That is great! But, did I tell you I have a long waitlist? One which can take months to get through? And, I do tend to move books up the queue once in a while? After telling authors all this, I still get messages from authors asking me why I am not getting to their book faster. I’ll be nice and reply to you the first time with my standard message to such emails, maybe a second time. But, after that, there is a very good chance I’ll just not review your book. <br />
Here’s an incident with an author on Goodreads. For a little background, I had accepted this book in November and had told the author that I would be able to review it before the end of the year. I somehow forgot all about the book and the deadline passed. I know, big mistake. One, which I had not planned to commit. When the author messaged in late January asking me why I had not reviewed, I finally remembered the book and committed to get to it quickly, and told him I had a few books I needed to review before I could get to his book. When the author sent me a couple of more messages asking me when I would get to his book, and why I had not gotten to it yet, I just ended up deleting it. It might have been a book I would have loved, but now I will never know, and I do not regret it. Too many books, too little time.<br />
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<b>9. Book pricing:</b> OK, I know I am not the one who can tell an author what he should charge for his books. But, when I see an author selling their first and only book for $4.99 and more, I am not the one who will buy it. I know this has nothing to do with blogging, but I have a really good rant going so I thought I’d throw this one in as well. The maximum I would pay to read a book by an unknown author is $2.99. Beyond this, it becomes too much of a risk. Also, the huge number of other authors for me to try out will lead me to ignore books beyond this price range. I’d however, pay more for subsequent books by an author I like.<br />
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And finally for today, the really big one!</div>
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<b>10. Going to war:</b> Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, blogs, I’ve seen authors and bloggers warring everywhere. Why, you ask? Over 1-star reviews of course. Authors do not seem to realize how visible their actions are on the internet. They also don’t seem to realize that they need to act professionally everywhere, every little bit reflects on their books as well. One author left nasty comments on a blog which had posted a 1-star review. Another emailed all her friends and other contacts to go and down vote a review on Amazon. And the email got out into the public arena. Yet another abused a blogger on Twitter and Goodreads. What do you think happened? Word got out and these incidents went viral. Hundreds of people got so turned off, they bandied around the bloggers. There is no way an author can win a war against the readers. There is no clean exit here. And apologies don’t matter. </div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">~Alexia: I’ve heard authors say that negative reviews are good publicity as well. If you want an honest review then you have to accept any review. Look at the Fifty Shades of Grey commotion… the only reason I picked it up is because there were so many bad reviews as well as great reviews – I wanted to know what all the fuss is about!<br />
I fully agree with what Ritesh has said, but in the same breath, bloggers should not be snarky towards an author in a review. Being rude and bashing them is not cool at all. You aren’t reviewing the author as a person, you are reviewing their book. I personally don’t post reviews on the blog that are 1 or 2 <strike>stars</strike> martinis, I’d rather email my review to the author and ask them if they would like me to post it or not, I’d tell them personally why I gave it a poor rating.</span></div>
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Just this past week, I came across a huge war started by an author due to the fact that reviews promised to him were not put up. I don’t have all the details, but after going through a few internet articles and blog posts, here’s the lowdown, as I get it. He fell in love with a debatably underage girl (and blogger) after lying to her about his age, and when she found out and broke it off with him, all hell broke loose. He put up a lot of posts ranting about the whole affair, and decided to put up a list of “bad bloggers” who had not reviewed his book after promising him to do so. The catch? There are some really well known bloggers on that list, and they say they never got a request from him. And, this is not really the problem. REALLY! The problem is the whole thing blew up in his face (now, why did he expect anything other than this to happen?), a lot of people got involved, and he went on the defensive … by degrading, abusing and threatening every person who left a comment on his posts.</div>
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<i>After seeing this last incident, I really have to wonder why I even agree to look at indie books. I really wanted to put up a notice on the blog that I would not be accepting indie books, or authors anymore. I do not lose anything, there are tons of books out there for me to read and review. So tell me, who loses?</i><br />
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So AUTHORS, what do you think? Do you think this is too harsh? Do you believe avoiding these 'pitfalls' would help you in getting a better 'hit rate' with bloggers?<br />
<br />
And BLOGGERS, tell me if you've had similar experiences. Also, what is your biggest pet peeve regarding how authors approach you with review requests? Leave a comment below, and I could add it to my ever expanding list. Of course I'll give you due credit to bringing it to my attention and will add a link to your blog to the posts.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~~~~~~~~~~ </span></div>
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</div>Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-84241810781312026072012-07-30T11:49:00.000+02:002012-07-30T11:49:58.104+02:00Blog Tour: Determinant<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Welcome to the 2nd last stop of the Determinant Blog Tour. Here you will find the synopsis of Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3), my ARC review, an excerpt, author bio and <em>giveaway</em>! Amazing prizes to be won - a Kindle Touch, Determinant (e-book) and Ressurection (e-book)!! </div>
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<strong>Title: </strong>Determinant [The Guardians of Vesturon #3]</div>
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<strong>Author: </strong>A.M. Hargrove</div>
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<strong>Genre: </strong>Young Adult Paranormal Romance (with a sci-fi element)</div>
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<strong>Heat: </strong>Hot</div>
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<strong>Series: </strong>The Guardians of Vesturon - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/76746-the-guardians-of-vesturon" target="_blank">see here</a></strong></div>
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Survival #1 - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13077293-survival" target="_blank">see here</a></strong></div>
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Resurrection #2 - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13418225-resurrection" target="_blank">see here</a></strong><br />
Determinant #3</div>
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Beginnings: Prequel #0.1 - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13563073-beginnings" target="_blank">see here</a></strong><br />
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<strong>Synopsis:</strong></div>
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January St. Davis, on her own since the age of sixteen and struggling to stay in college, thinks she's scored in a major way when she lands a paid summer internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. One evening, after working an especially long shift, a chance encounter with a group of mysterious men alters the course of her life.</div>
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Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon with unearthly powers and impossibly gorgeous looks, finds himself at odds over the human female he recently saved from certain death. When it seems he is on the verge of winning her over, she is ripped from his hands by a strange and powerful being, threatening to destroy her if his demands are not met.</div>
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Do Rykerian and the Guardians have the ability to meet this fierce barbarian's ultimatums, or will January suffer a horrid demise?</div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=guardians%20of%20vesturon&url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text" target="_blank">Amazon e-book</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> | <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=a+m+hargrove&x=0&y=0">Amazon UK</a> | <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=a+m+hargrove">Smashwords</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/the-guardians-of-vesturon?store=ALLPRODUCTS&keyword=the+guardians+of+vesturon">Barnes & Noble</a> | <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/survival-ya-paranormal-romance/id485840238?mt=11">iTunes</a></strong></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<strong>ARC Review of <i>Determinant</i></strong><br />
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Where to begin? I was blown away by Determinant - it's definitely my favourite in the series. My emotions were on a major roller coaster ride - completely haywire!!</div>
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Rykerian is so sensitive, sweet, sensual, loving and romantic - the list could go on. He's the type of guy that would carry you on his hands and kiss the ground you walk on! Ok, he does have his moments of typical 'guyness' (is that a word? lol), but what guy doesn't? He gained a <strike>lover</strike> mate but also lost a close family member - I was gutted!! My throat was so tight from swallowing back tears!</div>
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January on the other hand is 'hard', for lack of a better word. She has/had an extremely tough life through and through... seriously, life just kept throwing her curve balls. Her parents treated her badly (like, oh em gee badly), then she was doing so well at college, until a friend of hers disappears... Her grades start dropping, she can't keep up with working 2 jobs as well as attending college and the heart ache of her friend's disappearance. Wow - she has it bad! She is as tough as nails though, pushes through every obstacle life hands her.... until she goes wandering in the woods ;)</div>
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January and Rykerian together are amazing. At first it was a touch and go situation - which is obvious when you wake up in a strange house with a robot hovering over you!! But, once they accept each other and move forward... <em>FIREWORKS</em>!! Rykerian has a way with words... damn... if someone had to say such romantic things to me I'd melt in a puddle at their feet - no jokes!</div>
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Normally I don't mention the 'bad guy' - but good grief! Slap me silly and call me Sam, this bad boy hit a nerve... in a good way ;) Total bad ass and mysterious hawtness monster of note! Jurek needs his own story - I want to know all about him... I think I'd go so far as to say that, if he weren't a fictional character I would totally stalk him! Really, I would! He has this extremely dangerous side, but every now and then you'll see a different side of him (I don't mean in the sense of multiple personalities), I mean, catch him on a good day and he'll open up and let you see the real him... does that make sense?? Any who... I want to read his story too! Pretty please, with a cherry on the top :)<br />
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<strong>Excerpt of <em>Determinant</em></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I was lost in the events of the day and the amount of work I had and I was still nursing my wounded ego as I headed out of the lab. As I made my way down the corridor, I noticed six men advancing toward me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">It wasn’t their actions I noticed so much or even the way they walked. And though it was an oddity for them to even be here at all, it was their attire that captured my attention. They were dressed identically, in an extreme fashion, much like members of a gang or secret society. Large and muscular, they wore black vests and their bare arms were almost completely tattooed with tribal symbols of a sort. Metal bands criss-crossed their chests and their legs were tightly encased in leather. Knee high boots and black gloves finished off their ensembles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">As I neared them I felt my flesh tingle and the hairs on the back of my neck come to attention. Gooseflesh erupted and alarms started clanging in my head. I sucked in my breath and as I did, my eyes connected with the apparent leader. I say this because he was in the front of the formation as they plodded along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Time stood still as our eyes connected. His were an uncanny shade, lavender with hints of indigo and specks of silver. It was a hue I was unfamiliar with but they were intriguing and fascinating. The alarms were still ringing in my ears and the air felt electrically charged around us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><em>“Halt!”<o:p></o:p></em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I turned into stone. I couldn’t move a muscle. He cocked his head as his eyes bore into mine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><em>“Breathe!”<o:p></o:p></em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I distinctly heard his command in my mind and I was helpless to disobey him. I felt myself take a deep cleansing breath. I questioned him with my eyes. He flicked his head toward his men and they stepped back several feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><em>“Who are you? Why are you here?”<o:p></o:p></em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I was confused by the demanding questions swirling in my brain but felt compelled to answer him. I had never used mind reading to communicate, but I was sure he would hear my answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><em>“I’m January St. Davis. I’m here working on an internship for college credit.”<o:p></o:p></em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><em>“You are</em> human<em>?”</em> he asked with incredulity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I wasn’t sure what he meant by that. Why would he want to know if I was <em>human</em>? What a ridiculous question!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJUXEqQ8S5vKdcJXdJ5ZNWdTJu-PnRQ-kwB6OXeIYiYhuoIQ4cEnx_fbHq-pftkC-GZUAuoQTCHBjjjbpSEYi5cBtJkzcWzYTkDEW8LuPlveFfervmvncNJHcmxXJpiK6nxxaWnm84b4q/s1600/hargrove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJUXEqQ8S5vKdcJXdJ5ZNWdTJu-PnRQ-kwB6OXeIYiYhuoIQ4cEnx_fbHq-pftkC-GZUAuoQTCHBjjjbpSEYi5cBtJkzcWzYTkDEW8LuPlveFfervmvncNJHcmxXJpiK6nxxaWnm84b4q/s1600/hargrove.jpg" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong></strong></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>About author A.M. Hargrove</strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">One day, on her way home from work as a Sales Manager, A.M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase. Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodgeball pro and had uber quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head. Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A.M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated peice-of-you-know-what laptop out the window. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cellphone and hit #4 on her speed dial.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.'s Boss:</strong> Hello,</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> He Boss, I'm calling to let you know you can pick up my luxury Ford Focus at Starbucks near the interstate.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.'s Boss:</strong> Why ever would I want to do that?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Because I quit!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">A.M. hit the end button and speed dailed her husband.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Hey hubs, can you pick me up at Starbucks?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.'s Hubs:</strong> Sure... having some car trouble?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Not at all. I don't have a car to have trouble with because I just quit my job.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.'s Hubs:</strong> WHAT?!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> It's time for a new career and I am going to be a very famous novelist.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">So began A.M. Hargrove's career as a young adult paranormal romance author of self-published ebooks. Her series, The Guardians of Vesturon, centers around a family of six siblings and is a mix of humor, mystery, suspense and of course, love. Survival and Resurrection are her first and second full length novels, and Beginnings is her prequel novella to the series. Determinant, her third in the series will be released 30 June 2012. (It didn't really happen like that, but you get the idea!)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/landing/B0069RM3GM/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=ur2&qid=1340389114&camp=1789&sr=1-2-ent&creative=390957" target="_blank">Amazon Author Page</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> | <a href="http://www.amhargrove.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="http://www.amhargrove.com/">Website</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/anne.m.hargrove">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.blogger.com/http//:www.facebook.com/guardiansofvesturon">Series Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.twitter.com/amhargrove1">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5338829.A_M_Hargrove">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/71364-a-m-hargrove-s-fan-club" target="_blank">Fan Club</a></strong></span></div>
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d326d424/" id="rc-d326d424" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">And... that's it for this stop... Good luck to all that has entered the giveaway! I would, personally, rob a bank for a Kindle Touch ;) May the best book worm win!</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-57977871712597818492012-07-29T16:04:00.000+02:002012-07-29T16:04:31.147+02:00Sunday Post #8<a border="0" href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/p/sunday-post-meme.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><br />
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The Sunday Post is hosted by <strong><a href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/p/sunday-post-meme.html" target="_blank">Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer</a></strong>. </div>
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Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.</div>
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So let's get started :)</div>
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This week has been quiet-ish on the blog, as we both had hectic schedules work wise... here is what went down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtg3YNJ_KL0VSkgpRLZfetTnP3z8r4_LRqQex-5kaSVEW6gKHTopSJ5TWYQJhAWVzdu9Ta-2mmoRVxJYvHJIAdQlaDeNtuwNKOsmbJ7gvKKP0Uww29rBgF3w0_1pf2bzYpL6V8iwAjudJP/s1600/Genesis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtg3YNJ_KL0VSkgpRLZfetTnP3z8r4_LRqQex-5kaSVEW6gKHTopSJ5TWYQJhAWVzdu9Ta-2mmoRVxJYvHJIAdQlaDeNtuwNKOsmbJ7gvKKP0Uww29rBgF3w0_1pf2bzYpL6V8iwAjudJP/s200/Genesis.jpg" width="154" /></a><br />
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<strong>Monday, 23 July</strong></div>
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Cover reveal of Genesis (Elemental Enmity Series #3) by Christie Rich</div>
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Sneak peak - In this post you'll find the cover for Genesis, book blurp and author bio. <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/cover-reveal-genesis.html" target="_blank">See cover here</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Tuesday, 24 July</strong></div>
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Guest post by Terra Harmony - Pinterest = Fun Social Media</div>
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Sneak peak - "<strong>BEWARE! </strong>Pinterest is the suckiest time-suck to have ever sucked! You can get lost in there, spending hours lost among images. That speaks volumes for the website, but may I suggest setting a timer before you enter the world of pins?" <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/pinterest-fun-social-media.html" target="_blank">See guest post here</a></strong>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnNwNCi_w_hq0CTBBpMxWUTRs8jevsbNw6hRYTF4Rp0Ze015DAlvfDsHVQP9lddrtpG97FfNFuOP1Rnks-7Ko9EI89r_5d4LLX8LM8jmMhrdX3NRWynj95e8LIo_40wQiFxPwioY9njc5/s1600/emerald_dragon_cover3D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnNwNCi_w_hq0CTBBpMxWUTRs8jevsbNw6hRYTF4Rp0Ze015DAlvfDsHVQP9lddrtpG97FfNFuOP1Rnks-7Ko9EI89r_5d4LLX8LM8jmMhrdX3NRWynj95e8LIo_40wQiFxPwioY9njc5/s200/emerald_dragon_cover3D.jpg" width="127" /></a><br />
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<strong>Wednesday, 25 July</strong></div>
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We announced the winners of 'The Emerald Dragon Character Contest'</div>
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Stop by and have a look at the awesome prize and to congratulate the winners. <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/winners-emerald-dragon-character-contest.html" target="_blank">See here</a></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEG0CzkEIB3d0RWluZF6eYomboKA5ncAr7JgHsFEq5ucpIUWnaAKK9z2w0TYbGL4TmAlf_PtAehuCpnIwXys6JQ4TbJYKMbfxpHjBmZfORVpdvAOA21gpUIzI1bbDPEhrelu8MkWcnm8S/s1600/FF+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEG0CzkEIB3d0RWluZF6eYomboKA5ncAr7JgHsFEq5ucpIUWnaAKK9z2w0TYbGL4TmAlf_PtAehuCpnIwXys6JQ4TbJYKMbfxpHjBmZfORVpdvAOA21gpUIzI1bbDPEhrelu8MkWcnm8S/s200/FF+button.jpg" width="164" /></a><strong><br /></strong><br />
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<strong>Friday, 27 July</strong><br />
Feature & Follow Friday #13 hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read<br />
Sneak peak - This week's question: "Summer reading. What was your favourite book that you were REQUIRED to read when you were at school?" <b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/feature-follow-friday-13.html" target="_blank">See our answers here</a></b><br />
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<strong>Upcoming Week</strong></div>
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Monday, 30 July - Determinant Blog Tour with A.M. Hargrove</div>
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Tuesday, 31 July - I am a Blogger and I am Pissed #2 - post by Ritesh<br />
Wednesday, 1 August - Review of Dark Awakening (Cursed in Darkness #3) by Natalie Hancock</div>
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Friday, 16 July - Feature & Follow Friday post</div>
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That's it for this week. What has your week been like and what do you have planned for the upcoming week?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-6882879297019302392012-07-27T09:19:00.000+02:002012-07-27T09:19:54.909+02:00Feature & Follow Friday #13<a href="http://parajunkee.com/category/ff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6778552714_5a75be99b4_o.jpg" /></a><br />
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Hi peeps…</div>
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If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. </div>
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Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.</div>
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Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back. </div>
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For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -<br />
<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://parajunkee.com/2012/07/feature-follow-107.html" target="_blank">Parajunkee</a></span></span></span></b></u><br />
<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.alisoncanread.com/2012/07/feature-and-follow-friday-107.html" target="_blank">Alison Can Read</a></span></span></span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love… </span><br />
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<strong>Q:</strong> Summer Reading. What was your favourite book that you were REQUIRED to read when you were at school?</div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2657.To_Kill_a_Mockingbird" target="_blank">To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee</a></strong></div>
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We read the book and then watched the movie - this is a novel that will always stay with me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jkrowling.com/en_GB/#/harry-potter/the-books" target="_blank"><strong>Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling</strong></a><br />
My school never required us to read books, but I read the first Harry Potter book in my spare time. <br />
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</div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-56028590369728710722012-07-25T09:44:00.000+02:002012-07-25T09:44:28.121+02:00WINNERS: Emerald Dragon Character Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUC7zWnabril3D6L0_ybxkhy3XYE3P3lpIXMvk5F7uOl1z7lEb9zGwjr_95biO6LzR0y0AuWTUMaVqXPlam57ycMKa6c2bOd-TiVxW0GYZGhE6pexfXuoIpIIMwcH51SAGamxJpcteuWV/s1600/emerald_contest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUC7zWnabril3D6L0_ybxkhy3XYE3P3lpIXMvk5F7uOl1z7lEb9zGwjr_95biO6LzR0y0AuWTUMaVqXPlam57ycMKa6c2bOd-TiVxW0GYZGhE6pexfXuoIpIIMwcH51SAGamxJpcteuWV/s400/emerald_contest.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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On Sunday, 1 July we posted about a contest... Create a character for 'The Emerald Dragon'! We received many entries and Solitaire Parke has chosen the <strong>two</strong> winners! </div>
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<em>What is the prize?</em></div>
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The winner's character and dragon introduced into the story 'The Emerald Dragon' and will be mentioned periodically throughout the book thereafter. </div>
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A mention of the contest winners on the dedication page of the book.</div>
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A signed copy of the book sent to the contest winners when the book is released.</div>
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CONGRATULATIONS TO...</div>
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<strong>Kayleigh Hunt</strong></div>
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<strong>Jacob Overton</strong></div>
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<strong>Here is Kayleigh's character & dragon:</strong></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><u>Character:</u> Emeria (Relates to peace, harmony and nature) Reinhart.
Long blonde hair that trails to her tail bone, with grass-green eyes. A pixie
like face, slim and short. An innocent girl wih a witty personality. <br />
Origin: Earth<br />
Fictional Town name: Emberess<br />
FBH.<br />
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<u>Dragon's Name:</u> Acuzio Cyprian Ezio <br />
Nickname: Ace (meaning unity)<br />
-All of the dragons names are latin-<br />
Gender: Male<br />
Species: Wyvern<br />
Colour: Gold <br />
Age: 3 year old</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong>Here is Jacob's character & dragon:</strong></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><u>Character:</u> Helup Ironfold, long ashen grey hair, grey eyes, big
broad shoulders, strong arms, an all around big guy<br />
Origin: He hails from Ptolomea where, as a slave, Helup was forced to work as a
blacksmith by Erebus until he was called by his dragon and he escaped <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Denizen<br />
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<u>Dragon's Name:</u> Jilocasin Sybaris Cirfis<br />
Nickname: Cirf (Surf)<br />
Gender: Male<br />
Species: Wyvern<br />
Color: Grey<br />
Age: 9 years old</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Again, a huge congratulations to the winners... this is an <em>AH-mazing </em>prize :)<br />
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<em>Please note: </em>Kayleigh can you please contact us with an email address for you. If we have not received correspondence from you within the next few days, we will be choosing another winner.</div>
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<br />Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-5367589841852968482012-07-24T08:25:00.000+02:002012-07-24T08:25:41.871+02:00Guest Post: Pinterest = Fun Social Media<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Pinterest = Fun Social Media</b></div>
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by Terra Harmony</div>
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Of all the social media sites out there, the one I find most enjoyable is Pinterest. Here are the deets:</div>
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<b>What is it:</b> Images galore. Think of a digital pin-up board where you can post pictures and videos. Under your account, you can create different boards with different interests. This website is huge for fashion, travel, and foodies. </div>
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<b>Why do it:</b> Currently, over 10 million people are using Pinterest. Some tout Pinterest as the fastest growing standalone website ever. Users spend more time on Pinterest (average of 15 minutes per visit) than they do on Facebook (average of 12 minutes per visit) or Twitter (3 minutes). </div>
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<b>How:</b> You can repin images you like or add your own. All images link back to the source, so there aren't any copyright issues (at least not that I know of). You can also 'like' pins and comment on pins. Choose other boards or people to follow. </div>
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Check out my boards at: <a href="http://pinterest.com/terraharmony"><b>http://pinterest.com/terraharmony</b></a>.</div>
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<strong>I create boards to pin settings from my books:</strong></div>
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<a 1em;="" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcho5Lf0V7coHIJx4_kOauS98wEcHknheCBL1QKeyAakmQ1qPdrgATp-Xu3ARXCBKrhmtecvX1n29kFq0pOe3jZx4UWfoJnuTbilIfQUCglkzLMEiBrA3DrdCK6sWoM0cewEFcB2XTtXHa/s1600/cherry+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="1" color="black" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcho5Lf0V7coHIJx4_kOauS98wEcHknheCBL1QKeyAakmQ1qPdrgATp-Xu3ARXCBKrhmtecvX1n29kFq0pOe3jZx4UWfoJnuTbilIfQUCglkzLMEiBrA3DrdCK6sWoM0cewEFcB2XTtXHa/s640/cherry+tree.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Or to pinpoint specific scenes:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi105JRI0d1Bxzrn5mRUeEu7omekBrWVaQiSZ_Nd3F-tbaLq5bJHOHZTVXKrOBydexTtAx6wP86QbPq35_pvzUAoPQzp3bOwI90xbVFaR24euDr1d6p0WqJsLd3-Adc_hfwEVCDts98kwe7/s1600/kindred+curse+pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi105JRI0d1Bxzrn5mRUeEu7omekBrWVaQiSZ_Nd3F-tbaLq5bJHOHZTVXKrOBydexTtAx6wP86QbPq35_pvzUAoPQzp3bOwI90xbVFaR24euDr1d6p0WqJsLd3-Adc_hfwEVCDts98kwe7/s640/kindred+curse+pinterest.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>My most active board pins all of my favorite quotes like this one:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFoy_suFTY_ShodwUYDug1oht512SjC0t-39gVMnygtohQ9XEkjCUPyzm3Dh93xUf1uX6K8BIUSSnsgpeYeUgOMs5ORXi_cN3myptzvFWcHGPurkqunZyfJClNVvLoj01eNHHwgPhCdjq/s1600/free+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFoy_suFTY_ShodwUYDug1oht512SjC0t-39gVMnygtohQ9XEkjCUPyzm3Dh93xUf1uX6K8BIUSSnsgpeYeUgOMs5ORXi_cN3myptzvFWcHGPurkqunZyfJClNVvLoj01eNHHwgPhCdjq/s640/free+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>And of course, I've got to have my 'eco' board:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr81YNwJJ29tp1NShEdt4474mneMtq5bHKtAxA3Liwb1Dk_fb2gINLgt-TpI3H2n983t7N6MEdibvlqm442PFfVn0ttz8ROioTqJ2cGBYQ-8m3EiLTa9FTtG-yJyMrRn5CJR-uvzVkOp9/s1600/cork+oak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr81YNwJJ29tp1NShEdt4474mneMtq5bHKtAxA3Liwb1Dk_fb2gINLgt-TpI3H2n983t7N6MEdibvlqm442PFfVn0ttz8ROioTqJ2cGBYQ-8m3EiLTa9FTtG-yJyMrRn5CJR-uvzVkOp9/s640/cork+oak.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The possibilities</b> for Pinterest are limitless. Here are a few other ideas for authors, readers, and bloggers:</span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;">Show pictures of where you read or write, or a snapshot of your shelf (BOOKshelf – geez, dirty mind…)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Create boards with your favorite books, favorite book covers, or even your favorite book trailers (don't forget, Pinterest does video).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Open up your board for others to pin inspiration. Fans, colleagues, and friends can be great contributors!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Stop self-promoting and give people a glimpse into your other interests. I have boards on <a href="http://pinterest.com/terraharmony/sunflowers/"><b>sunflowers</b></a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/terraharmony/mermaids/"><b>mermaids</b></a>, and <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/terraharmony/steampunk/">steampunk</a></b>.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Use a pinboard to tell a story</li>
</ul>
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<b>BEWARE!</b> Pinterest is the suckiest time-suck to have ever sucked! You can get lost in there, spending hours lost among images. That speaks volumes for the website, but may I suggest setting a timer before you enter the world of pins?</div>
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<b>Hint:</b> Installing the Pinterest bookmark makes it fast and easy to add pins to a board while you’re browsing online.</div>
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Some of my favorite boards:</div>
<div>
<b><a href="http://pinterest.com/kirstenhubbard/">YA Author Kristin Hubbard</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/thebloggess/"><b>Jennifer 'The Bloggess' Lawson</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://pinterest.com/carlylel/">SciFi/Fantasy Author Carlyle Labushagne</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://pinterest.com/farbspiel/">Photographer Klaus Herrmann</a></b></div>
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Are you on Pinterest? Get there and remember to…<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhQY0zLJiISuZYC6So52qDyN43l5I1VbujFCmqmGaNUYNqJyHvq75bTQt2MQ1x6YTaXrYeO80XSwNaBZlH9z1lnf94xYsEgHgd7-uWQvM_4CMSppTM1sBypFPu_RlKyYXvINRmwo04ZfV/s1600/book+photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhQY0zLJiISuZYC6So52qDyN43l5I1VbujFCmqmGaNUYNqJyHvq75bTQt2MQ1x6YTaXrYeO80XSwNaBZlH9z1lnf94xYsEgHgd7-uWQvM_4CMSppTM1sBypFPu_RlKyYXvINRmwo04ZfV/s320/book+photo.JPG" width="276" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>About Terra Harmony</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Terra is an eco-fantasy author of The Akasha Series. The first two books, ‘Water’ and ‘Air’, are available as e-books. The next is the series, ‘Fire’, will be released in October 2012, followed by ‘Earth’ in spring 2013.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Terra was born and raised in Colorado but have since lived in California, Texas, Utah, North Carolina and Virginia. She served a 5½ year enlistment in the Marine Corp, has a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and master’s degree in Linguistics. Terra lives in a suburb of Washington, DC with her husband of 13 years and three children.</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
| <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/terraharmony">Facebook</a></b> | <b><a href="http://twitter.com/harmonygirlit">Twitter</a></b> | <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/terraharmony">Pinterest</a></b> | <b><a href="https://plus.google.com/101033059595962307629/posts">Google +</a></b> | </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
| <b><a href="http://harmonylit.wordpress.com/">Blog</a></b> | <b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5202680.Terra_Harmony">Goodreads</a></b> | <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/landing/B005HB67CC/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=ritkalsboor04-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957" target="_blank">Amazon Author Page</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=ritkalsboor04-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b> |</div>
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</div>Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-43024999593798998742012-07-23T14:10:00.001+02:002012-07-23T14:10:40.306+02:00Cover Reveal: Genesis<div style="text-align: justify;">
Christie Rich's 3rd book in her Elemental Enmity Series will be available July 27th. In this post I will reveal the cover for Genesis, the synopsis and author bio. So here it is... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtg3YNJ_KL0VSkgpRLZfetTnP3z8r4_LRqQex-5kaSVEW6gKHTopSJ5TWYQJhAWVzdu9Ta-2mmoRVxJYvHJIAdQlaDeNtuwNKOsmbJ7gvKKP0Uww29rBgF3w0_1pf2bzYpL6V8iwAjudJP/s1600/Genesis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtg3YNJ_KL0VSkgpRLZfetTnP3z8r4_LRqQex-5kaSVEW6gKHTopSJ5TWYQJhAWVzdu9Ta-2mmoRVxJYvHJIAdQlaDeNtuwNKOsmbJ7gvKKP0Uww29rBgF3w0_1pf2bzYpL6V8iwAjudJP/s320/Genesis.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
Genesis [Elemental Enmity #3]<br />
by <strong><a href="http://christierich.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Christie Rich</a></strong><br />
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<strong><u><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/75208-elemental-enmity" target="_blank">Elemental Enmity Series:</a></u></strong><br />
Five #1 - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/211099767" target="_blank">see my review</a></strong> <br />
Dark Matter #2 - <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/258327158" target="_blank">see my review</a></strong><br />
<strong>Genesis #3</strong><br />
<br />
<em>Synopsis:</em><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Having
just escaped the nefarious plans of the Order, Rayla Tate thinks all she has to
do now is rescue her family and sort through her feelings, but bonding with
five men might just be her undoing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not
only does she have to deal with all of them reading her mind, Tabitha informs
Rayla that she must choose a bondmate before she will be allowed to venture
into the mortal realm to save those she loves most.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">She
has three weeks to get to know each lord, but her journey turns into far more
than a simple choice of the heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rayla
comes face to face with the underhanded dealings of the fae political system
where good is a matter of taste and evil lurks under beautiful shells.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long held judgments crumble when she
discovers the heart beneath the men she has come to count on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rayla must overcome long held fears, discover
the truth behind the creatures of the dark realms, and conquer her greatest
weakness before she can take her place as the new queen of the fae.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">However,
her world crumbles when she discovers following her heart’s desire might just
mean the destruction of the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will
Rayla have the courage to choose the man who has risked everything to win her,
or will she succumb to the manipulations of the fae council and those who would
use her power for evil?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">One
choice:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>five men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stakes have never been higher, but which
one will prevail?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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What do you think? I LURVE it.... so beautiful!! All the covers in this series are <em>amazing</em>! Here are all the covers together...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUN1NE0vaFcEk_kziyYHDAOIhFaDP6uKQMYaAqP-73013lf-DcQqAN9wDXHMv8Cw1QsEUSIpKsNWiGLtXlyxYK5MrbpjqJYiCqI-syEL9yeRaLmmqg_Tmn-GRPcd5A764l8kwJN03kFtCr/s1600/all+covers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUN1NE0vaFcEk_kziyYHDAOIhFaDP6uKQMYaAqP-73013lf-DcQqAN9wDXHMv8Cw1QsEUSIpKsNWiGLtXlyxYK5MrbpjqJYiCqI-syEL9yeRaLmmqg_Tmn-GRPcd5A764l8kwJN03kFtCr/s400/all+covers.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Goodreads: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12415584-five" target="_blank"><strong>Five</strong></a><strong> | </strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13317510-dark-matter" target="_blank"><strong>Dark Matter</strong></a></div>
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Aren't they just purdy?? I'm so excited to get my hands on Genesis! Dark Matter (book #2) ended with a major cliff hanger... I just need to know what happens! ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMcUHeUiFI-SWlSx-glxy_ue2XpA1u7e92aNXTm4lNfKeacA4UsvKpjKxiAWfKYuXPSUn4EyxLZiGm7SFGWXN5H8Pu98C9PG4g8ANz8bINhD61Bo770_U85qMHCW2KUF0c3v2HvR9nnV_/s1600/cr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMcUHeUiFI-SWlSx-glxy_ue2XpA1u7e92aNXTm4lNfKeacA4UsvKpjKxiAWfKYuXPSUn4EyxLZiGm7SFGWXN5H8Pu98C9PG4g8ANz8bINhD61Bo770_U85qMHCW2KUF0c3v2HvR9nnV_/s1600/cr.jpg" /></a><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<blockquote>
<strong>About author Christie Rich</strong>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
love to be creative. It is more than a hobby. It is a need of mine. Whether
writing, reading, painting, flower arranging or trying something new, I spend
most of my time in the pursuit of freeing the creations inside me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I live in a small town in Northern Utah with
my wonderful husband, two beautiful children, spastic dog, and two extremely
lazy cats.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5147170.Christie_Rich" target="_blank">Goodreads Page</a> | <a href="http://www.christierich.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/authorchristier" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Christie-Rich/214197338637188" target="_blank">Facebook</a></strong> </div>
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What do you think? Love or hate? Yay or nay? I personally love all the covers, but I have to say that Genesis is my fav... so far ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-60468642985384583202012-07-22T19:29:00.000+02:002012-07-22T19:29:17.665+02:00Sunday Post #7<a border="0" href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/p/sunday-post-meme.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img height="200" src=" http://i1196.photobucket.com/albums/aa411/kimbathecaffeinatedbookreviewer/vectorstock_43821-1-1.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Sunday Post is hosted by <strong><a href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/" target="_blank">Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer</a></strong>. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.</div>
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So let's get started :)</div>
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We've had a great week on the blog! Here's what went down...</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JzyRW2d_7UCxHHEsJ5b-s6gkrsHFlGl9wudkAU2m1B0uq6IuBHRQ7lW8kp7Sd0qNO-Jr145nUBGAnmvCQvyn6sAXLG7r_pMt7sY2cysrCAvN7uGdsojIvJy31wfJH6xSqAkXDT_WvK3L/s1600/thebookeraward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JzyRW2d_7UCxHHEsJ5b-s6gkrsHFlGl9wudkAU2m1B0uq6IuBHRQ7lW8kp7Sd0qNO-Jr145nUBGAnmvCQvyn6sAXLG7r_pMt7sY2cysrCAvN7uGdsojIvJy31wfJH6xSqAkXDT_WvK3L/s1600/thebookeraward.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>Monday, 16 July</strong><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ritesh and I received a blog award from Martina Bookaholic. Ritesh was super busy, so I answered the questions :)</div>
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Sneak peak - <em>The Booker Award:</em> I had to list 5 of my fave books, 5 fabulous moments, 5 things I love, 5 things I dislike and nominate 5 people for the award. <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/award-booker-award.html" target="_blank">See my answers here</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Tuesday, 17 July</strong></div>
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We had author A.M. Hargrove on the blog for a guest post <em>AND</em> giveaway!</div>
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Sneak peak - Guest Post: The Origin of The Guardians of Vesturon: "I love vampires, witches, werewolves and anything supernatural. You name it, I'm one hundred percent in. I can't seem to get enough of any of them, so you can only imagine my excitement when all things paranormal began to surge and gain in popularity. Somehow, I managed to have a daughter that *sigh* hates all things supernatural." <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/guest-post-giveaway-origin-of-guardians.html" target="_blank">See the guest post and enter the giveaway here</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Wednesday, 18 July</strong><br />
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I did a review on Dark Shadows #2 by Natalie Hancock</div>
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Sneak peak - "Shade, can I have him?! Pretty please, with a cherry on the top?! Still the sexy hotness monster on a stick, dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with sex appeal! *wipes drool*" <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-dark-shadows.html" target="_blank">Read my review here</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Thursday, 19 July</strong><br />
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Ritesh interviewed me as the Blogger Interview of the month - the reason why I was the lucky bum is because it was my <em>BIRTHDAY </em>:) We had a cocktail party on the blog :) There was a surprize guest list as well!!</div>
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Sneak peak - " It is a very special occasion today as it is Alexia's birthday, so we're having a party here at Alexia's Chronicles. I decided to invite a few of Alexia's friends over for the party." <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/blogger-interview-and-birthday-party.html" target="_blank">Stop by for a cocktail here</a></strong>
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<strong>Friday, 20 July</strong></div>
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Feature & Follow Friday #12 hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read</div>
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Sneak peak - This week's question: "Christmas in July! Someone gives you a gift card for two books. What two books will you buy?" <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/feature-follow-friday-12.html" target="_blank">See our answer here</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Upcoming Week</strong><br />
Monday, 23 July - Cover reveal for Christie Rich's 3rd book in her Elemental Enmity Series<br />
Tuesday, 24 July - A guest post by author Terra Harmony<br />
Friday, 26 July - Feature & Follow Friday post<br />
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That's it for this week. What has your week been like and what do you have planned for the upcoming week?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-9718608478431732962012-07-20T09:44:00.000+02:002012-07-20T09:44:21.375+02:00Feature & Follow Friday #12<a href="http://parajunkee.com/category/ff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6778552714_5a75be99b4_o.jpg" /></a><br />
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Hi peeps…</div>
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If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. </div>
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Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.</div>
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Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back. </div>
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For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -</div>
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<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://parajunkee.com/2012/07/feature-follow-106.html" target="_blank">Parajunkee</a></span></span></span></b></u></div>
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<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.alisoncanread.com/2012/07/feature-and-follow-friday-106.html" target="_blank">Alison Can Read</a></span></span></span></span></b></u></div>
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<span style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love… </span></div>
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<strong>Q: </strong>Christmas in July! Someone gives you a gift card for two books (whatever that costs). What two books will you buy?</div>
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I would buy <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/704043.Kiss_of_Midnight" target="_blank"><strong>Kiss of Midnight</strong></a> (Midnight Breed #1) by Lara Adrian and <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10993282-lover-reborn" target="_blank">Lover Reborn</a></strong> (Black Dagger Brotherhood #10) by J.R. Ward</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>
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<br />Oh, I would get <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10790277-rise-of-empire" target="_blank">Rise of Empire</a></strong> (Riyria Revelations #2) and <strong><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11100431-heir-of-novron" target="_blank">Heir of Novron</a></strong> (Riyria Revelations #3) by Michael J. Sullivan </div>
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<br /></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-33259638971468220322012-07-19T09:22:00.000+02:002012-07-19T09:26:38.566+02:00Blogger Interview and Birthday Party: Alexia Smit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;" trbidi="on"><embed pluginspage=" http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" src="https://sites.google.com/site/riteshkala/bannernow.swf" width="400"></embed></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">It is a very special occasion today as it is Alexia's birthday, so we're having a party here at Alexia's Chronicles. I decided to invite a few of Alexia's friends over for the party. I will also be asking Alexia a few questions, so everyone can get to know Alexia a bit better.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Let me first introduce Alexia's friends who've dropped in for the party. There'll be more friends joining in throughout the day!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Ritesh: </b>That's me, of course, and I hope everyone has gotten to know me a bit better now that I hang around the blog a lot, and you can see some of my posts and reviews. I can't believe I have known Alexia only for a few months. I can truly say that she has become my best friend, even though I've never met her in person. She is an amazingly strong willed person, who'd do anything for her friends. Also, she is awesome, did you know that she has a karate black belt? Yeah that is Alexia, tough exterior, and mushy heart.<br />
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<b><a href="http://dreamlandteenfantasy.blogspot.in/">Natasha</a>: </b><span style="background-color: ;">Natasha is a fellow book blogger and dear friend of both of us. You can </span><b><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.in/2012/06/blogger-interview-natasha-anne.html">go here</a></b><span style="background-color: ;"> to know more. Natasha and I met Alexia through Terra Harmony, when I was organizing a week of posts for Terra. I am ever grateful to Terra for introducing me to both of them, and we all are now great friends!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Shannon: </b>Shannon is one of Alexia's closest friends, so she has to be here of course. Shannon and Alexia have known each other a long time and when these two go out for an evening together, BEWARE. For anything can happen!<br />
Here is what she has to say about Alexia: "To me she's a Vicious Vixen with a low tolerance for anyone's B.S, I know she always has my back through thick and thin, and me and her have been through everything together, we are each others pillars when no one else stays anymore, truest person I know, hard core to the bone, but has the heart of an angel, she cares a lot about people she doesn't even know, and crys for others when they can't see. Passionate, caring, loving and full on incredible person! Couldn't have asked the world for a better person to know!"<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="http://www.amhargrove.com/">Anne M. Hargrove</a>: </b>Alexia first met Anne when she was a brand new author and she didn't know the first thing about bloggers or reviews. Soon, they both discovered they had common interests, two of which were the same hot book boyfriends and extremely tasty martinis!<br />
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<b><a href="http://harmonylit.wordpress.com/">Terra Harmony</a>: </b>Alexia was one of the first bloggers to post a review of Terra's first book. They've kept in touch since and have done a few things together. According to Terra, Alexia has been nothing but supportive and she will never, ever forget that.<br />
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<b><a href="http://natalie-c-hancock.blogspot.in/">Natalie Hancock</a>:</b> When Alexia saw Natalie’s covers, she fell in love with them instantly and they began talking. After finding out they had a lot in common when it comes to the hot male vampires they read about, there was no stopping them! “I love talking to Alexia, I never know what to expect when I talk to her, she’s so random! We can be talking about one thing, and it’ll somehow change into something completely unrelated! She’s always making me cry with laughter. She’s the most amazing person I’ve ever had the privilege to speak to...Though I think she’s using me to get to Shade and Nikalye.”<br />
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<b><a href="http://martinabookaholic.wordpress.com/">Martina</a>: </b>Martina met Alex on a goodreads group which was supposed to help bloggers to get more followers and we both, Alex and me (also Nat as well) were just starting with our babies (blogs). They helped each other in the early days of the blogs, and soon found a common taste for books and genres and got to talking about them. Here is what she has to say about Alexia: "For me Alex is a very thoughtful woman, who loves, like me, good books and loves to daydream (perfectly of hot fictional characters ^^), but she is also funny and has a good sense of humor and also likes to go out, meet new people and party. And though she lives across the planet (I’m from Austria) we share common likings and lifestyled and I think thats the reason why I feel so connected to her. So honey, HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY and I WISH you all the best and more and that all you dreams come true!!! xxx Tina.<br />
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<b><a href="http://christierich.blogspot.in/">Christie Rich</a>: </b>This is what she had to say about Alexia. "I first met Alexia on Goodreads. I was new to indie publishing and Alexia was one of the first people to sign up for read to review. I think she was also my first official fan. Alexia is such a sweet, amazing person. I am so grateful that she "friended" me on goodreads. She has become a dear friend, and I know she will do great things in her life. Even with being half a world away she has touched my life.<br />
Alexia, this is just for you: Love you, girl. You're the best, and I can't imagine not being your friend. Thanks for reaching out to me and supporting me through tough times. You're a keeper. Happy Birthday, and many more to come."<br />
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<b>Seriously, if ever we were to establish an International Book Blogger's Day, July 19th should be it! Happy Birthday, Alexia – make this day yours – you deserve it! (Terra's idea!)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>The guest list also includes some very special "guys". Here's a rundown.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 20px;">The Guest List</span></b><br />
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<img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHx32Osd95huH3w3AHLFGzfwl-Fde5FFa0pHc8cGgc3SvWeD6yvbD2k9toOrei4MJqm8w7iuE35uAl39esn1NW6zT1h3gm3yHCPbXvr5A0HOoNdk1AOIErJxt6HK3Yf98V-gidki5s-nms/s320/Reyez.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Reyez from</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Charlie Davidson Series</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPUhUgumR9hz5EEheim2JURYTGDvcINNN0lUZ-RWzUpCMlg-qUUX28O0bSS3IU_agYxsCcWSdyUoUbo9q1_ExKzk1RJHwkQCX_DEY6XZYLgFU0d6f26jYZcLRUu2DRSVA3NBKn6LWcPzU/s1600/Damon-Salvatore+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPUhUgumR9hz5EEheim2JURYTGDvcINNN0lUZ-RWzUpCMlg-qUUX28O0bSS3IU_agYxsCcWSdyUoUbo9q1_ExKzk1RJHwkQCX_DEY6XZYLgFU0d6f26jYZcLRUu2DRSVA3NBKn6LWcPzU/s320/Damon-Salvatore+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Damon Salvatore <span style="text-align: left;">from</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Vampire Diaries</span></b></div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXyblBQgOJbXz5KLq7InYiAPhfuA2xCT-qF3_s7qM4HkgTe-eYf4RvaNYSXFT-zjFR9SD8xRvkFD8VT8oogys48b_nf10wfL6DIkzduBFrBXEoiBwEPLPkoabFzXPFcoBgI388XtVISSH/s1600/Eric-Northman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXyblBQgOJbXz5KLq7InYiAPhfuA2xCT-qF3_s7qM4HkgTe-eYf4RvaNYSXFT-zjFR9SD8xRvkFD8VT8oogys48b_nf10wfL6DIkzduBFrBXEoiBwEPLPkoabFzXPFcoBgI388XtVISSH/s320/Eric-Northman.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Eric Northman from</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Southern Vampire Mysteries</b></span></div></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SAPiMTiYtQVnOqFLvlq1BIE9B4jEAKgnRICZS-uQtzHF4-gBecxG9k4Xrc-aXbwE-xUk0KCYtOZgOe_WrC8keRmWLp_9typ7MX0bGpJwcltmyFKL5Txs_FpIT_msc8m9uQyvnAqhsa86/s1600/Zsadist_by_smvgrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SAPiMTiYtQVnOqFLvlq1BIE9B4jEAKgnRICZS-uQtzHF4-gBecxG9k4Xrc-aXbwE-xUk0KCYtOZgOe_WrC8keRmWLp_9typ7MX0bGpJwcltmyFKL5Txs_FpIT_msc8m9uQyvnAqhsa86/s320/Zsadist_by_smvgrey.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Zsadist from</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Black Dagger Brotherhood</b></span></span><br />
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vkjKtBEGTFVTyXTgl2YItroNjLB4S0TTqfms-1DJBNdoCY8vx5vVDu66a1rBKXbmCzVWelnTZ8ziZihA0XyWflLMrOcQKYRfOz7DD5S25f4x9T88lH2YdJA4P4KXtftFeP4sPWeVukgX/s1600/Christian+Grey1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vkjKtBEGTFVTyXTgl2YItroNjLB4S0TTqfms-1DJBNdoCY8vx5vVDu66a1rBKXbmCzVWelnTZ8ziZihA0XyWflLMrOcQKYRfOz7DD5S25f4x9T88lH2YdJA4P4KXtftFeP4sPWeVukgX/s320/Christian+Grey1.jpg" width="234" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Christian Grey from</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">50 Shades of Grey</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></td></tr>
<tr><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq74Ur9Gj8B9Q_TuMAlxsvUVnKmc44BuQzizAuhfd8POZ7uuBII4vT3_atWwhG-ShhR8zPzH4z_aClthsjguJ_d0ABfztx_4XDTMplNMFKC0_a_PsnqHfSMoxKwBsj6DB_iFuWA8INd6uX/s1600/barronsintense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq74Ur9Gj8B9Q_TuMAlxsvUVnKmc44BuQzizAuhfd8POZ7uuBII4vT3_atWwhG-ShhR8zPzH4z_aClthsjguJ_d0ABfztx_4XDTMplNMFKC0_a_PsnqHfSMoxKwBsj6DB_iFuWA8INd6uX/s320/barronsintense.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Jericho Z. Barrons from</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Fever series</b></span></div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirn__bD6KxahQ7akRjh-KXhlixGZSI_j9sDrbmMnJ8jCcYaK0lzE_2trDdNEuquVAnSpPugMZKCrRe9S3nai-6kqjvAr1UUIdgZ1nLgH5ejOwlbq9NyAw0bPs0yOK8TGnCyTG5MqpQF5eH/s1600/Lothaire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirn__bD6KxahQ7akRjh-KXhlixGZSI_j9sDrbmMnJ8jCcYaK0lzE_2trDdNEuquVAnSpPugMZKCrRe9S3nai-6kqjvAr1UUIdgZ1nLgH5ejOwlbq9NyAw0bPs0yOK8TGnCyTG5MqpQF5eH/s320/Lothaire.jpg" width="234" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Lothaire from</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>Immortals after Dark</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></td></tr>
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</div></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, lets get to the main event. As part of the birthday celebrations, we're going to get to know Alexia a bit better. So, Alexia is going to be answering a few questions. But, everyone is going to get involved today in the interview! The "special guys" also have some questions for Alexia. So hang around for some fun times. There will be free martinis for everyone! And don't forget to ask Alexia a question of your own!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fbALtMxYCtrnC97jk99gZErxbHEqNO4gsk-LBQKmvfJMdoNmBFJU0YcpxSmNj37tlAGqXebs9Y7TiNs-58fzMvP-o1rNZehdl_ioaQ1de6ovXb5UmEBSs0T2ro3J8GBItakz10pM8D-4/s1600/Me+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fbALtMxYCtrnC97jk99gZErxbHEqNO4gsk-LBQKmvfJMdoNmBFJU0YcpxSmNj37tlAGqXebs9Y7TiNs-58fzMvP-o1rNZehdl_ioaQ1de6ovXb5UmEBSs0T2ro3J8GBItakz10pM8D-4/s320/Me+2.jpg" width="258" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Alexia, we know about your fun side, and your love for martinis and hotness monsters. But, tell us about the real Alexia. What do you do when you are not reading books or on your 8-5 job</i>.</span></b></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What do you mean the real Alexia? What you see on the blog is really actually what you get. When not reading, blogging or working… I spend time with my family and friends, I go to training a few times a week and just irritate people in general :) lol! Oh yes, and I run my household and spend time with my 2 pooches (Tammi & Sandi) and bird (Soco – yes he is named after Southern Comfort, my absolute favourite drink lol). </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>What is the blog about?</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">BOOKS!! Reviews, guest posts, interviews, giveaways… anything to do with books, authors and book bloggers! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Why and how did you start blogging? What is it that keeps you going?</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Why? Because I always want to discuss a book after I’ve read it, and I just kind of got over my friends looking at me with a total blank look on their faces after I’ve shared my ‘animated’ thoughts with them about a book I just read. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How? It just kind of happened, I guess. I signed up for Goodreads, then Twitter… can you imagine my surprize when I realized that there are people that have book review blogs?! It was a *happy chicken dance moment*! And that’s basically how it started…</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What keeps me going? Reading is my way of escaping reality. What better way to escape reality than reading about hotness monsters on a stick, dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with yummy? Or kick ass chicks that shoot first and ask questions later? I want to know it all, I want to experience every story that there is… and I want to share my thoughts.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>What are your favourite genres and why? Which all genres do you review?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I only review paranormal romance, urban fantasy (YA & adult) and erotica. These are my fav genres… Why? Because I can… haha only kidding! It’s my way of escaping reality :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>How do you choose which book to read? What do you do if you can’t get into the story or characters after a chapter or two?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The cover and synopsis really needs to grab my attention. When I can’t get into the story I usually just push through because I have this OBSSESSION with needing to know what’s going to happen! Sometimes, I’ll put the book down (if I’m not into it) and take a reading break for a few hours and then get back to it…</div><br />
<b><i>Have you ever thought of transitioning from reviewer to writer?</i></b><br />
If I answer this it’ll be 3 pages long LOL<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL_FVB3F__aYslaE8zaIUAmi9zZloEIFFzY2ksnVdgIMIwBHlNYaVE8jmcLI95uOXOsYwHuxlRhL9iRou5tByXz72GJkY4bXW9GDpaI_tI4uCcyv-eUo8c-7uGidgFPzfCwD4QdCn8QFf/s1600/demon+from+the+dark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL_FVB3F__aYslaE8zaIUAmi9zZloEIFFzY2ksnVdgIMIwBHlNYaVE8jmcLI95uOXOsYwHuxlRhL9iRou5tByXz72GJkY4bXW9GDpaI_tI4uCcyv-eUo8c-7uGidgFPzfCwD4QdCn8QFf/s1600/demon+from+the+dark.jpg" /></a></div><b><i>Cover, blurb, or first page? Which is most important to you?</i></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I’m a cover whore!! I wouldn’t say the cover is the most important to me, but a purdy cover is eye catching. So it’s a toss-up between cover and blurp.</div><br />
<b><i>What do you think about the blogger community? Have you made any new friends since you started blogging?</i></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">LURVE! Bloggers are pure awesomesauce! I’ve made so many friends, be it fellow book bloggers or authors. Amazing support system! Love all your gorgeous faces :) (you know who you are)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>How do you go about writing reviews? Do you have a process you follow, or just write from the heart?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I write from the heart… Once my fingers start typing I can’t stop until it’s all on paper. My reviews aren’t technical or formal, they are ‘me’ in every way, my thoughts and my feelings – sometimes I find that my reviews are too relaxed, but I guess that’s my ‘signature’? *shrugs* Haven’t had any complaints yet lol</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Who is the one character you’d like to do “nasty things” with?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Haha Ritesh, really? LOL Um… Malkom Slaine of Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole. *sighs* If only…</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>If you could kill or atleast seriously damage any one character, who would it be?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">I can’t just name ONE, there are a few… I wouldn’t kill though, I’d do some serious face crushing damage lol</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>What would you like to achieve for the blog which would make you think that the blog has finally reached a place where it is hugely successful?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">I’m not sure how to say this without sounding ungrateful/rude, but I don’t care about the publicity and what not… If people like the posts/content on AC then they should follow or return to the blog of their own accord. To me, Alexia’s Chronicles is already a huge success :)</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Outside of your life as a blogger, where do you want to be 5 years from now?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Are you kidding me?! I JUST turned 25 today… please let me get over the fact that I’m not in my early 20’s anymore first haha </div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div></div><div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>What is the greatest thing to happen to you because of your blog?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Making all these amazing friends, discovering fabulous books and having one of my reviews quoted on the back cover of a book :)</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Do your family, friends and other acquaintances in your life understand your need to blog, and are they supportive?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yes! Definitely! My family and friends are super supportive and always want to know what’s happening on the blog. They are all proud of what I’ve accomplished with reading, reviewing and blogging and they are happy I have found my passion in life. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div></div><div><div><b>Quick fire questions</b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div><b><i>ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover?</i></b></div><div>Paperbacks</div><div><br />
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkVuJWQZJsQ-Kv-AnQpgQhsIRhhmOsnVKKTMKWwKZRWTJ4w8DC2LiX_t9SNLNkQ6wohfQAQ16gpznf3B1geH2B6TWb3Vg_Sb1A7o0FLEdpQye1x-IYIKCfv_QsBPLUwa_FeywpziR2x-A/s1600/Pooches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkVuJWQZJsQ-Kv-AnQpgQhsIRhhmOsnVKKTMKWwKZRWTJ4w8DC2LiX_t9SNLNkQ6wohfQAQ16gpznf3B1geH2B6TWb3Vg_Sb1A7o0FLEdpQye1x-IYIKCfv_QsBPLUwa_FeywpziR2x-A/s200/Pooches.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><b><i>Cats or dogs or something else? (Maybe tortoises?)</i></b></div><div>Hahaha Dogs!! But I lurve my little bird, Soco and I’ll be getting a little baby tortoise soon lol (Ritesh you know me too well)</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>Coffee or tea?</i></b></div><div>COFFEE!</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>Favourite food?</i></b></div><div>Pasta</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>Favourite book?</i></b></div><div>Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>Favourite author?</i></b></div><div>Dahhh… Kresley Cole *shakes head*</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>Favourite “hotness monster of note”?</i></b></div><div>Malkom Slaine … hubba hubba *winks*</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>If you could change the ending of one book, which book would you change, and how?</i></b></div><div>I won’t change it… it might irritate the shit out of me, but it still makes it interesting and what keeps me going back for more!</div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>What are 4 things you never leave home without?</i></b></div><div>Lipgloss, my phone, lipgloss and cash</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaC9iCvdm2_7LKUiXuUIQMKlkCvWrpcOKjAZ4aB1JctnD1Dj8kcBsIRCl2mwGf6XfEEArZWP6b1qm2Ygt43QbEJYGgzFSMpLruiZBkkSuapg6XsFMDEx1iiOrZzkQujHlckFdL52cS9aR/s1600/bro+and+sis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaC9iCvdm2_7LKUiXuUIQMKlkCvWrpcOKjAZ4aB1JctnD1Dj8kcBsIRCl2mwGf6XfEEArZWP6b1qm2Ygt43QbEJYGgzFSMpLruiZBkkSuapg6XsFMDEx1iiOrZzkQujHlckFdL52cS9aR/s320/bro+and+sis.jpg" width="222" /></a></div><br />
</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you and why?</i></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do they have to be real people or can it be characters too? … I’ll just add both LOL</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">My brother (he’s famous to me ok?! He’s good with survival tactics lol), Malcolm Slain (I need someone to stalk) and Kresley Cole (so she can tell me stories when I’m bored)</div></div><div><br />
</div><div><b><i>List 3 of your all-time favourite movies and 3 of your all-time favourite songs/bands.</i></b></div><div>Movies: The Proposal, Never Back Down & Pretty Woman</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Bands: My fav songs/bands are all old school – The Eagles (Hotel California), Roxette & UB40 (there loads more)</div></div><div><br />
</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?</i></b></div></div><div>Two Broke Girls – LOVE LOVE LOVE</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, the boys here could not remain quiet, and have a few questions of their own for Alexia!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>DAMON SALVATORE</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>So tell me, do you want to be a vampire?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nope! Who else will feed you?? ;)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="text-align: center;"><br />
</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="text-align: center;">Me or Stefan. Say it, I won't kill you.</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You Mr D. Salvatore</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>What do you think are the most attractive traits of a vampire?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Too many, each vamp is different, so can’t choose.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>If I were to get a drink, besides blood of course, what would you recommend?</i></b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Southern Comfort obviously…</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>REYEZ</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Being the son of Satan, I may be the ultimate “bad boy”. Which would you prefer, a nice boy or a bad boy like me?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Definitely you. It makes things more interesting, right?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Also, do you think a person is inherently good or bad?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">No, everyone has a good side and a bad side… it all boils down to choice!</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD</b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div></div><div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Who do you like best from our little band of brothers?</i></b> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Rehvenge!!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Rehvenge is a symphath and a total badass, how do you think you would fare in his company?</i></b> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Great! My emotions are always all over the place (I’m a woman, so obviously), so I’d confuse the hell out of Mr Rehv with major mixed emotions and jump him when he least expects it ;) *giggles*</div></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>CHRISTIAN GREY</b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>I can give you everything you’ll ever desire, but can you give in to me, let me control everything?</i></b> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Um… ONLY in the Red Room of Pain! I’m my own person, no one gets to tell me what I may and may not do… </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>You know about my, umm … “erotic tastes”. What do you think of them, and would you be willing to indulge me?</i></b> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Let me think about that… HELLS YEAH! </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">And finally,</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>If you could do “nasty things” to one of these characters, who would you choose, and why?</i></b> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have to choose only ONE? How about one for each day of the week? ..No? Then it shall be REYEZ… son of Satan. </div></div></div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>So, join us in wishing Alexia Happy Birthday and join the party. Enjoy the lovely desserts and the amazing martinis, and don't forget to ask Alexia a question!</b></span></div></div></div></div>Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-1568681957608148902012-07-18T12:49:00.000+02:002012-07-18T12:49:02.347+02:00Review: Dark Shadows<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-OOv8F5f-iPVhCgykpvPGGEvImlFoOCH9vqFVTgIFw02Yw_GN_GLTiqb69RnGIceQAaRSW7F3nmmZIJHmgoZOSWddPPe2FN6VU2bbk4vpjwFopWpk5ixq76e1TwWQU4ycQWeL54LY5rV/s1600/Dark+Shadows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-OOv8F5f-iPVhCgykpvPGGEvImlFoOCH9vqFVTgIFw02Yw_GN_GLTiqb69RnGIceQAaRSW7F3nmmZIJHmgoZOSWddPPe2FN6VU2bbk4vpjwFopWpk5ixq76e1TwWQU4ycQWeL54LY5rV/s1600/Dark+Shadows.jpg" /></a><br />
<blockquote>
Dark Shadows [Cursed in Darkness #2]<br />
By <strong><a href="http://www.cursedindarkness.com/" target="_blank">Natalie Hancock</a></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><a href="http://www.cursedindarkness.com/myseries.html" target="_blank">Cursed in Darkness Series:</a></strong><br />
Eternal Darkness #1 - <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-eternal-darkness.html" target="_blank">See my review</a></strong><br />
<strong>Dark Shadows #2</strong> <br />
Dark Awakening #3<br />
<br />
<strong><em><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13599850-dark-shadows" target="_blank">From Goodreads:</a></em></strong><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Layla is incredibly
weak from serious wounds after the attack and the hunger raging inside of her
does not help. When Shade tempts her, with not just his body, but with his
blood also, Layla struggles harder than ever. As much as she wants his blood
pouring into her mouth while he takes her, she cannot do it. Her secret, her
hidden identity will get out—and that she cannot handle.<br />
<br />
Layla tries to continue to live her life as normal, however, things turn bad
when Layla and Nikalye discover something and Layla has to fight for her life,
putting everyone in serious danger.<br />
<br />
Layla is on the lookout now, and the only distraction is Shade. When he speaks,
when he breathes down her neck and touches her, she cannot remember anything
but him. When they get intimate, it is all she can do to keep herself breathing
as he pleasures her. She cannot understand how they both react so strongly with
each other, but she does not care.<br />
<br />
Yet she feels as though something is going to go horribly wrong, not with Shade
and herself, but something else, something bigger…and she is not wrong.<br />
<br />
It is worse than before and Layla has no choice now but to reveal who she
really is, and risk everyone hating her for the rest of her time in the
academy.<br />
<br />
What is her secret?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Buy on: <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007SDDZJU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007SDDZJU">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B007SDDZJU" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
</strong></div>
</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">So Natalie Hancock did it again... murdered my poor brain. Never before have I been so confuckulated by a plot. Once I figured out what the hell was going on, everything fell into place! Fabulous! Love love love book 2 in this series.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">In Dark Shadows Layla has come out of her shell a bit more. She's opened up to some of her fellow students at the Academy. She has friends and life seems just a tad better on that front... she isn't that much of a loner anymore. This chick has been handed some major 'make or break' moments and she just breezed through it all with her head held high. Layla is awe-inspiring!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Shade, can I have him?! Pretty please, with a cherry on the top?! Still the sexy hotness monster on a stick, dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with sex appeal! *wipes drool* The plot thickens when it comes to Layla and Shade ;) Their 'interactions' are as <em>HAWT</em> as ever! Shade has also stepped out of the shadows more, I now have a better idea of his past and what type of person/vamp he is. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Nikalye... I'm still in dodge town about him. I just can't figure out what his deal is. I know he and Layla have a special type of relationship, as in guardian / protector type, but I have a feeling that there is more... whether it's good or bad - <em>NO</em> idea! I need to know what his story is.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Oh, I have to add my 2 cents about Layla's <strike>stupid</strike> mother - she's a total ass-munch and I want to give her brutal papercuts everywhere. Layla must kick her ass once and for all! Back stabbing biatch!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Natalie Hancock has a tempting way of describing the smooches in this series - they are orgasmic, knee-weakening, demanding and oh so powerful! She is the Queen of cliffhangers, <em>seriously, no jokes</em>... she reveals crutial information, like, literally in the last friggin' sentence! Drives me <em>INSANE</em> (in a good way).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Again, I have to comment on the covers for the Cursed in Darkness Series... to me they say: "Well hello there Lex, open me up and discover my secrets." *giggles* What a sexy and alluring series.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-azMIgnv_iDWutHvusJbdyZgFCeCfXkbQQbr0HEJNS526PrYdB0AlE7RSarVSwHzA5ledrWCVEDCIrQ883Pqil7kVzqotaEoV3fC97FE24Dc0-7OkqLAIY9XRlt62l-012NDNTJXOR4m/s1600/4star.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-azMIgnv_iDWutHvusJbdyZgFCeCfXkbQQbr0HEJNS526PrYdB0AlE7RSarVSwHzA5ledrWCVEDCIrQ883Pqil7kVzqotaEoV3fC97FE24Dc0-7OkqLAIY9XRlt62l-012NDNTJXOR4m/s1600/4star.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-139864680860492962012-07-17T08:28:00.000+02:002012-07-17T08:28:47.844+02:00Guest Post & Giveaway: The origin of The Guardians of Vesturon<div align="center">
<strong>The origin of The Guardians of Vesturon</strong></div>
<div align="center">
By A.M. Hargrove</div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
love vampires, witches, werewolves and anything supernatural.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You name it, I’m one hundred percent in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t seem to get enough of any of them, so
you can only imagine my excitement when all things paranormal began to surge
and gain in popularity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow, I
managed to have a daughter that *sigh* hates all things supernatural.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still shake my head over that one (and
oftentimes vigorously scratch it).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
I decided to try my hand at writing my first book, I plundered my brain for
ideas that would appeal to both of us and hence, the Guardians of Vesturon were
created.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
also love sci-fi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She *sigh again* does
not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may now be asking yourself,
“What <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">does</i> she like?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m still trying to figure that one out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I began writing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survival</i>, Book 1 of The Guardians of Vesturon, I really wanted a
blend of everything, minus vampires and werewolves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t want strict paranormal or sci-fi
either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the series tends to straddle
the line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a tendency for sci-fi,
obviously, with the Guardians since they are otherworldly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it’s light sci-fi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are gifted with serious paranormal
powers, such as telepathy and mind reading, for example.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a group of people on Earth they are
connected with that have mystical/paranormal powers as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though the books enter the sci-fi realm a
bit, they are not high tech sci-fi to the point of turning a non-sci-fi lover
off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, I don’t leap into
the world of quantum physics and take you on a fifty page dissertation of
trying to explain how that could possibly fit into my story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most intense form of tech you’ll ever see
is my usage of the string theory in explaining the ability to travel faster
than the speed of light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every now and
then I might throw in an awful looking creature, but for the most part, my
aliens are swoon-worthy, and easy on the eyes *wink*.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
was the youngest of four children (one brother and two sisters) and my dad had
an identical twin brother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My aunt and
uncle had six children (four boys and two girls) and they lived two blocks away
from us so we all grew up together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I
wasn’t sleeping in my bed at night, I was spending the night at their house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was mercilessly teased growing up (as was
everyone else in both families), and learned at an early age to laugh easily,
poke fun at myself and not take things too seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was never a dull or quiet moment in
either house and that was my basis for the six Yarrister siblings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
wanted each of the Guardians to be different enough that while every book could
have some commonalities, they could be diverse enough that the reader wouldn’t
quickly tire of the series.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the first
two books I wrote about Maddie and Rayn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their story was so complex that I couldn’t possibly put it all in one
book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant</i> surprised a lot of people because, for some strange
reason, they thought it would be more Maddie and Rayn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With each book, my epilogue will be a teaser
of what’s coming next, so I can only surmise some readers didn’t grasp that
Rykerian was going to be the main male MC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I also wanted to write <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant</i>
in such a way as to make it a stand-alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The reason for that is some people love the idea of a series while
others don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant</i>, you don’t have to read <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survival</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Resurrection</i>
if you choose not to, but you can still follow along and understand the story
line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">For
anyone that’s read any of the Guardian books, they know that there are five
boys and one girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The boys are Rayn,
Rykerian, Therron, Tesslar and Xarrid and Sharra is their only sister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’ve read <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant, </i>you’re already aware that the next book in the series
is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">reEmergent</i>, and it’s characters
are Xarrid and Saylan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enough said about
that *big wink*<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">If
any of you have been to my Fan Club on Goodreads, (you should come and hang out
sometime, by the way) you may already be aware that my next project will be the
first book in the Praestani series.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’ll have to read <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant</i>
to find out more about who the Praestani are, but I will give you this much--it
will be an <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">adult</i> trilogy based on the
character Jurek, that I introduced in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Determinant</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jurek could not be written in the young adult
genre because, well, he’s too old for one thing, but he’s completely irreverent,
will not conform to anyone’s rules, has his own agenda, loves foul language and
can be rather crude at times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
like a bad boy with some redeeming qualities at times, Jurek may be your new
book boyfriend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="BodyA" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Well, it’s time for me to head out for now as
there’s a superb cocktail creation beckoning to me (that would be an extra
dirty martini with extra olives please)!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;"><em>Alexia: Oh yes please... I'll be joining you on that martini </em>:)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJUXEqQ8S5vKdcJXdJ5ZNWdTJu-PnRQ-kwB6OXeIYiYhuoIQ4cEnx_fbHq-pftkC-GZUAuoQTCHBjjjbpSEYi5cBtJkzcWzYTkDEW8LuPlveFfervmvncNJHcmxXJpiK6nxxaWnm84b4q/s1600/hargrove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJUXEqQ8S5vKdcJXdJ5ZNWdTJu-PnRQ-kwB6OXeIYiYhuoIQ4cEnx_fbHq-pftkC-GZUAuoQTCHBjjjbpSEYi5cBtJkzcWzYTkDEW8LuPlveFfervmvncNJHcmxXJpiK6nxxaWnm84b4q/s1600/hargrove.jpg" /></a></div>
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<blockquote>
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<br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>About author A.M. Hargrove</strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">One day, on
her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life
was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would quickly be
too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">So, she rolled down the passenger window of
her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of
fire was a dodgeball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting
bashed in the head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feeling a tad guilty
about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street
before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what lap top out the
window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">She breathed a liberating sigh
of relief, picked up her cell phone and hit #4 on her speed dial.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.’s
Boss:</strong> Hello.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Hey
Boss, I’m calling to let you know you can pick up my luxury Ford Focus at
Starbucks near the interstate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.’s
Boss:</strong> Why ever would I want to do that?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.:</strong>
Because I quit!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">A.M. hit
the end button and speed dialed her husband.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Hey
hubs, can you pick me up at Starbucks?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.’s
Hubs:</strong> Sure… having some car trouble?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> Not
at all. I don’t have a car to have trouble with because I just quit my job.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.’s
Hubs:</strong> WHAT?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><strong>A.M.:</strong> It’s
time for a new career and I am going to be a very famous novelist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">So began
A.M. Hargrove’s career as a young adult paranormal romance author of
self-published ebooks. Her series, The Guardians of Vesturon, centers around a
family of six siblings and is a mix of humor, mystery, suspense and of course,
love. Survival and Resurrection are her first and second full length novels,
and Beginnings is her prequel novella to the series. Determinant, her third in
the series was released 30 June 2012. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">(It didn’t really happen like that, but
you get the idea!)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><strong><a href="http://amhargrove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a> | <a href="http://www.amhargrove.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anne.m.hargrove" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/amhargrove1" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5338829.A_M_Hargrove" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/71364-a-m-hargrove-s-fan-club" target="_blank">Fan Club</a></strong></o:p></span></div>
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~~~~~~~~~~</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>The Guardians of Vesturon Series</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyMyOM7AOsxpp39qGismotZhJcojjaHhiPPMrG1CuNREJhcsLwPWA4IPEXM7VUgXoArBB0q7sj9kswEkOPWjTDU7Qb8z5I9_2I8xESI0Ir_jpIF17Yh1dbq7DZHPBSrtjrKRj4C_uzeQ6/s1600/all.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyMyOM7AOsxpp39qGismotZhJcojjaHhiPPMrG1CuNREJhcsLwPWA4IPEXM7VUgXoArBB0q7sj9kswEkOPWjTDU7Qb8z5I9_2I8xESI0Ir_jpIF17Yh1dbq7DZHPBSrtjrKRj4C_uzeQ6/s640/all.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/guardiansofvesturon" target="_blank">Series Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=alesmi-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=guardians%20of%20vesturon&url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text" target="_blank">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=alesmi-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> | <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=a+m+hargrove" target="_blank">Smashwords</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/76746-the-guardians-of-vesturon" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/06/arc-review-determinant.html" target="_blank">ARC Review Determinant</a> | <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1639896768">Excerpt Determinant</a></strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/06/cover-reveal-determinant.html" target="_blank"></a></div>
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~~~~~~~~~~</div>
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<br /></div>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d0f5347/" id="rc-d0f5347" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js">
</script>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>
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</div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-27806096803959776362012-07-16T10:30:00.000+02:002012-07-16T10:30:13.680+02:00Award: The Booker Award<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JzyRW2d_7UCxHHEsJ5b-s6gkrsHFlGl9wudkAU2m1B0uq6IuBHRQ7lW8kp7Sd0qNO-Jr145nUBGAnmvCQvyn6sAXLG7r_pMt7sY2cysrCAvN7uGdsojIvJy31wfJH6xSqAkXDT_WvK3L/s1600/thebookeraward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JzyRW2d_7UCxHHEsJ5b-s6gkrsHFlGl9wudkAU2m1B0uq6IuBHRQ7lW8kp7Sd0qNO-Jr145nUBGAnmvCQvyn6sAXLG7r_pMt7sY2cysrCAvN7uGdsojIvJy31wfJH6xSqAkXDT_WvK3L/s1600/thebookeraward.jpg" /></a><br />
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ritesh and I received <em>THE BOOKER AWARD</em> from the fabulous Martina at <strong><a href="http://martinabookaholic.wordpress.com/2012/07/15/award-the-booker-award/" target="_blank">Martina Bookaholic</a></strong> :) I met Tina in one of the groups on Goodreads and we helped each other out with blogging tips! </div>
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I will be answering the questions for this award as Ritesh is super busy today. Thank you Tina! </div>
</blockquote>
<br />
<br /><strong>List your 5 favourite books:</strong><br />
1. A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole<br />
2. Wicked Deeds on a Winters Night by Kresley Cole<br />
3. Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole<br />
4. Charley Davidson Series by Darynda Jones<br />
5. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead<br />
(there are many more, but I'm only allowed to list 5)<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<strong>5 Fabulous moments:</strong><br />
1. Getting my first paycheck - sounds silly, but a did a major happy dance, waving it around lol<br />
2. Getting my Black Belt in Karate - was a gruesome grading and super proud I got through it<br />
3. Getting my first car - felt on top of the world... I was totally cool ;)<br />
4. Moving into my own place - my first 'milestone' as an adult? lol<br />
5. Last but not least starting up Alexia's Chronicles - finally found my passion!<br />
<br />
<strong>5 Things I love:</strong><br />
1. My family & friends<br />
2. My animals (2 pooches, Tammi and Sandi & my little bird, Soco)<br />
3. My bank account at the beginning of the month ONLY lol<br />
4. Lipgloss & high heels<br />
5. BOOKS!!<br />
<br />
<strong>5 Things I dislike:</strong><br />
1. Abusers - animal abusers, woman abuser, etc. <br />
2. People that are dishonest - can't stand that at all<br />
3. Bugs/spiders/snakes, anything that crawls - not cool! I run screaming from the room!<br />
4. My bank account half way through the month - broke broke broke lol<br />
5. Going to the dentist<br />
<br />
<strong>5 People I would like to share this award with:</strong><br />
1. Natasha @<strong> </strong><a href="http://dreamlandteenfantasy.blogspot.co.at/" target="_blank"><strong>Dreamland A Teenage Fantasy</strong></a><br />
2. Terra Harmony @ <strong><a href="http://harmonylit.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Terra Harmony Eco-Fantasy Author</a></strong><br />
3. Kay @ <strong><a href="http://k-booksxo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">K-Books</a></strong><br />
4. Christie Rich @ <strong><a href="http://christierich.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Christie Rich</a></strong><br />
5. Vicky @ <strong><a href="http://www.booksbiscuitsandtea.co.uk/" target="_blank">Books, Biscuits & Tea</a></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-20944041920001334792012-07-15T16:39:00.000+02:002012-07-15T16:39:44.469+02:00Sunday Post #6<a border="0" href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/p/sunday-post-meme.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img height="200" src=" http://i1196.photobucket.com/albums/aa411/kimbathecaffeinatedbookreviewer/vectorstock_43821-1-1.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<blockquote>
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The Sunday Post is hosted by <strong><a href="http://www.caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/p/sunday-post-meme.html" target="_blank">Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer</a></strong>. </div>
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Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.</div>
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So let's get started :)</div>
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This week has been chilled out... not too much happening on the blog, but we did have a post done by Ritesh which was a big hit as well as an interview with an author. </div>
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<strong>Tuesday, 10 July</strong></div>
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Blog post by Ritesh - I am a Blogger and I am Pissed! #1 </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZEhxrh74LYmDqBoToy9IEHYLRH_wuhXE6Jg0cRGqdtznfDoSy0IHjlJMqS03SsYZ_juy55nu7b80701s8AU_q1YlxTa8AkTNxcsXJ-etmlyllGbC9xI-3iCc6LP_BKmQIbB_n0si51n3/s1600/Review+Policy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZEhxrh74LYmDqBoToy9IEHYLRH_wuhXE6Jg0cRGqdtznfDoSy0IHjlJMqS03SsYZ_juy55nu7b80701s8AU_q1YlxTa8AkTNxcsXJ-etmlyllGbC9xI-3iCc6LP_BKmQIbB_n0si51n3/s200/Review+Policy.png" width="200" /></a>Sneak peak - "There have been some authors that have royally pissed me off with their attitudes. Having talked to other bloggers, I now realize that this is not a problem which is faced by me only. So, I am going to vent a little. I hope all authors read this and take something away from it. I am definitely not 'attacking' authors as a whole, just positive criticism." This is a 3 part series, so be sure to come back and check it out :) <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-blogger-and-i-am-pissed-1.html" target="_blank">Read post here</a></strong>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0hyphenhyphenqjCGonHalZ7_tHfKhTtRnWrtSi9wGO29IPOTaXTaAD1WRMibLwa4rKProDrQmDLrgeelGwANq_Nk4pQNKbsMLxsfi2ofN2IC_cQjSDoQNGFY6_3GlC6tlrxMYqxBAK9CeXLhYDVLr/s1600/Seeking+a+Scribe+300+x+450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0hyphenhyphenqjCGonHalZ7_tHfKhTtRnWrtSi9wGO29IPOTaXTaAD1WRMibLwa4rKProDrQmDLrgeelGwANq_Nk4pQNKbsMLxsfi2ofN2IC_cQjSDoQNGFY6_3GlC6tlrxMYqxBAK9CeXLhYDVLr/s200/Seeking+a+Scribe+300+x+450.jpg" width="132" /></a><strong></strong></div>
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<strong>Thursday, 12 July</strong></div>
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Interview & Giveaway with author Marsha A. Moore</div>
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Sneak peak - "Marsha's books are a combination of fantasy and romance, so both Alexia and I have something to look forward to in them! Marsha has also graciously agreed to giveaway one e-book copy of her <em>Seeking a Scribe: Enchanted Legend One</em> book to a lucky winner." <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/interview-giveaway-marsha-moore.html" target="_blank">Read interview & enter the giveaway here</a></strong></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lU_nxmRFD5A/Tz4GnRdKFgI/AAAAAAAAATQ/8F8xxE9bU-8/s1600/FF_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lU_nxmRFD5A/Tz4GnRdKFgI/AAAAAAAAATQ/8F8xxE9bU-8/s200/FF_2012.jpg" width="164" /></a><strong></strong></div>
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<strong>Friday, 13 July</strong></div>
Feature & Follow Friday #11 hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read<br />
Sneak peak - This week's question: "What drove you to start book blogging in the first place?" <strong><a href="http://alexiachronicles.blogspot.com/2012/07/feature-follow-friday-11.html" target="_blank">See our answers here</a></strong><br />
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<strong>Upcoming Week</strong><br />
Tuesday, 17 July - Guest Post & Giveaway with A.M. Hargrove<br />
Thursday, 19 July - It's my <em>Birthday</em> and to celebrate Ritesh will be interviewing me as the Blogger Interview of the month :) <br />
Friday, 20 July - Feature & Follow Friday post #12<br />
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That's it for this week. What has your week been like and what do you have planned for the upcoming week? Be sure to check back during next week to enter the giveaway :)<br />
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</div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-12480767373307067522012-07-13T09:37:00.000+02:002012-07-13T09:37:17.716+02:00Feature & Follow Friday #11<a href="http://parajunkee.com/category/ff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6778552714_5a75be99b4_o.jpg" /></a><br />
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Hi peeps…</div>
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If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. </div>
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Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.</div>
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Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back. </div>
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For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -</div>
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<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://parajunkee.com/2012/07/feature-follow-105.html" target="_blank">Parajunkee</a></span></span></span></b></u></div>
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<u style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.alisoncanread.com/2012/07/feature-and-follow-friday-105.html" target="_blank">Alison Can Read</a></span></span></span></span></b></u></div>
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<span style="background-color: #e3f4fc; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love… </span></div>
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<strong>Q: </strong>What drove you to start book blogging in the first place?</div>
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Great question! I'm going to sound really stupid now, but I didn't realize that there were book blogs out there. I know what you're thinking - "seriously, can this chick be anymore blond?" lol I <em>LOVE</em> to read and I so badly wanted to discuss the book I read with someone and tell them what I liked or hated, but people don't always want to listen to me being overly animated about characters in a book or the story line. So I started a Twitter account and the first two book bloggers I found were, <strong><em><a href="http://www.bookish-brunette.com/" target="_blank">The Bookish Brunette</a></em></strong> and <strong><em><a href="http://parajunkee.com/" target="_blank">Parajunkee</a></em></strong>... I.WAS.IN.AWE! </div>
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And so began the late nights of <em>trying</em> to set up my own blog - cursing Blogger was my new favourite thing to do lol :) Anywho... that's what drove me to start blogging, sharing my love for reading, my thoughts on books and meeting authors and other book bloggers :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSag46HC9CQpp68bpy3CZ7PguHQI2MJO-wV1JubYTyfYHnwqA1GC2lP9zlU4R1mDNO2PzgtMwQ7UQgfeG2QcUOJoa1VqWgUvWFy5q9CUrLviHLs75ury_OVb5fOLEqCEuR4zVkhB42oZB/s1600/Alexia+signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Towards
the end of 2011, I was indisposed for a couple of months and the only thing I
could do was read books. One fine day, I decided to write down my thoughts on a
non-fiction book I had just finished (The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a
New World by Alan Greenspan), which is when the idea of starting a blog struck
me. I never imagined getting into blogging at that time, the blog was supposed
to just be something where I kept notes on books I read. But then I joined
Goodreads, met a lot of interesting authors and started getting requests to
actually review books. I was thrust into the book blogging world unwittingly,
but I am really glad to be here!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9QZ9fbEyUVkprZaJVvuK_sFhjO2ZdoBKsAN00tnLffBotyLzks09QaWepUudj8hgak4uMSreD9q49Zrx_OEHxfx98tVQDgZGBwS_W0XPvBmpIvQMsxB7YzbHBt_koJbpVz113qpH22bW/s1600/Ritesh+signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9QZ9fbEyUVkprZaJVvuK_sFhjO2ZdoBKsAN00tnLffBotyLzks09QaWepUudj8hgak4uMSreD9q49Zrx_OEHxfx98tVQDgZGBwS_W0XPvBmpIvQMsxB7YzbHBt_koJbpVz113qpH22bW/s1600/Ritesh+signature.png" /></a></div>Alexiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14982660901323181179noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-40809241728055283242012-07-12T09:21:00.000+02:002012-07-12T09:21:29.601+02:00Interview & Giveaway: Marsha A. Moore<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Today, we'd like to welcome author Marsha A. Moore to the blog. Marsha's books are a combination of fantasy and romance, so both Alexia and I have something to look forward to, in them! Marsha has also graciously agreed to giveaway one e-book copy of her <strong>Seeking a Scribe: Enchanted Legend One</strong> book to a lucky winner. Remember to enter the giveaway at the end of the interview! </div>
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So, let's get started!</div>
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<b><i>Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into? Is it more romance or more fantasy?</i></b></div>
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The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are about Lyra McCauley, a woman destined to become one of five strong women in her family who possess unique magical abilities and serve as Scribes in Dragonspeir. The Scribes span a long history, dating from 1200 to present day. Each Scribe is expected to journey through Dragonspeir, both the good and evil factions, then draft a written account. Each book contains magic with vast implications. </div>
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Lyra was first introduced to Dragonspeir as a young girl, when she met the high sorcerer, Cullen Drake, through a gift of one of those enchanted books. Using its magic, he escorted her into the parallel world of Dragonspeir. Years later, she lost that volume and forgot the world and Cullen. These legends begin where he finds her again—she is thirty-five, standing in his enchanted bookstore, and Dragonspeir needs her. </div>
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When Lyra reopens that enchanted book, she confronts a series of quests where she is expected to save the good Alliance from destruction by the evil Black Dragon. While learning about her role, Lyra and Cullen fall in love. He is 220 years old and kept alive by Dragonspeir magic. Cullen will die if Dragonspeir is taken over by the evil faction…Lyra becomes the Scribe. </div>
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The genre is fantasy romance, weighted more toward fantasy since there is a lot of complex adventure. </div>
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<b><i>How do you come up with the idea for the series? </i></b></div>
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The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are basically a fantasy lover’s dream, being able to step into a favorite book as a character. I know my initial inspiration came after watching the recent Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland movie. From that, I wanted to work with parallel worlds and have a heroine who must save the fantasy world from danger. But, I wanted it to be more adult in order to deal with more complex feelings. Beyond that, I just see fantasy stories all around me. It comes naturally.</div>
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<b><i>Who is your favourite character from your books? Is there a character in your books you think the readers will hate?</i></b></div>
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Easily I would be Lyra, the heroine and main character of my Enchanted Bookstore Legends. Reality always forms the framework of my stories. Actually, since this is a five-part series and I’m currently writing book #3, the more I look at this story, the more of myself I see. My heroine, Lyra, is very much connected to me. Even in the first chapter of the first book, the childhood memories brought to her mind by Cullen’s magical tea are actually all mine. </div>
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My crit partners have a strong dislike for Eburscon, the Imperial Alchemist. He’s greedy for power and aims to steal Lyra’s scribal aura—a very ruthless character.</div>
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<b><i>What were the challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing it to life?</i></b></div>
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I didn’t struggle with the first two books of these Enchanted Bookstore Legends, but had a difficult time finding what internal conflict my heroine needed to deal with in the third book. I actually had to live it, pass through a difficult experience in my own life with the recent passing of my mother, in order to see what the character needed to do. That was a real moment of discovery for me since I’d been too close to the forest to see the trees, so-to-speak. </div>
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<b><i>Did you learn anything from writing your books and what was it?</i></b></div>
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That while I can dream up an amazing fantasy setting and a whole cast of interesting characters and creatures who interact based upon believable external problems, I must draw from my own experiences for the internal conflicts. </div>
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<b><i>What are your current projects? When is your next book coming out?</i></b></div>
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I’m currently finishing up writing the third Enchanted Bookstore Legend: Lost Volumes. I’m expecting a September release for that book. I’ve also been planning a new series. I like to think about my plans for a new book or series over several months, fitting the pieces together.</div>
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I write epic fantasy with romantic elements and will likely do more in that subgenre. I also enjoy reading magical realism, mythpunk, and mythic fiction—all subgenres that sit on the border between fantasy and literary fiction. I expect my writing will shift in that direction over time.</div>
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I like the complexity of fantasy, the feeling of being transported into another world. However, most fantasy books are written for young adults. In my reading, I longed to find more fantasies written for adults. The element of romance I include is far less about adding sex than about adding deeper connections between the hero and heroine, allowing them to be more three-dimensional and work with more complex issues. </div>
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<b><i>What book are you reading now? Which are your all-time favourite authors / books?</i></b></div>
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Right now, I’m reading Dragon Keeper by Robin Hobb and One Song: A New Illuminated Rumi by Michael Green.</div>
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I loved Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift. The symbolism is amazing; the more you read, the more layers you find. Inspired by that, I like to hide things in my stories. </div>
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<b><i>Give us three “Good to Know” facts about you, something you could not read just about anywhere.</i></b></div>
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1. I just this week signed up for a year-long yoga teacher certification program and am very eager for that to start.</div>
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2. I love to knit in the hammock in our lanai while the sun sets. Dusk is my favorite time of the day.</div>
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3. I talk to pelicans while I sit on our dock or kayak around the lagoon.</div>
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<b><i>Do you have anything specific that you want to say to readers?</i></b></div>
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A description of Heritage Avenged: Enchanted Bookstore Legend Two, my current release:</div>
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Lyra McCauley receives an alarming letter from the coroner who evaluated her deceased aunt, originally thought to have died of cancer. The news causes Lyra to take leave from her job and travel from sunny Tampa to the frozen island community in northern Michigan. Questioning whether Dragonspeir magic was responsible for her aunt’s death, she resolves to learn the truth and accepts the Imperial Dragon’s appointment into the Alliance sorcery training. </div>
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Additionally, becoming proficient in magic craft is the only way she can bridge the gap between her mortal human world and her lover’s. Cullen, a 220-year-old wizard, is dependent upon his Dragonspeir magic for immortality. He is her only family now; she cannot lose him.</div>
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Evil forces block her and try to steal her inherited scribal aura. Riding a stealth dragon, a cloaked rider pursues Lyra. Both the Alliance and Dark Realm alchemists lay tricks and traps. Her aura equals that of the first and most powerful Scribe, but will Lyra’s novice training allow her to discover the truth…and find a life with Cullen? Or will the Dark Realm keep them apart?</div>
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<b><i>How easy or difficult is it to create a different world for fantasy novels? World building vs. character building, which is more important?</i></b></div>
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I find it really easy to world build. It’s my favorite part of the process. I begin with a setting I find interesting, somewhere I’d like to spend some time. In writing fantasy, world-building is everything. Then, I create the main characters, appearance and personality. From there, how they will become involved goes hand-in-hand with developing the plot. I do outline a lot, since there are many interwoven subplots in this series. This series is epic in scope, and details would get lost if I didn’t plan. Outside of the key features on the outline, I do allow the in-between progress in each chapter to flow freely, which I enjoy a lot. Some of the most imaginative bits arise that way. </div>
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<b><i>If you could not write in the fantasy genre, what would you be writing?</i></b></div>
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I especially enjoy reading magical realism, mythpunk, and mythic fiction—all subgenres that are considered literary fiction. Writing in those genres appeals do me, and I expect my writing will shift in that direction over time.</div>
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<b>Quick-fire questions:</b><br />
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<b><i>ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover? </i></b><br />
Ebooks for fiction, but paper or hard copies for references<br />
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<b><i>Cats or dogs? </i></b><br />
Dogs<br />
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<b><i>Coffee or tea? </i></b><br />
Tea addict<br />
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<b><i>Favourite food? </i></b><br />
Potatoes<br />
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<b><i>Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? </i></b><br />
Chocolate<br />
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<b><i>Where and when do you prefer to do your writing? </i></b><br />
I prefer to write in the morning or the evening, not mid-day. I usually write after dinner. I like writing outside in our lanai.<br />
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<b><i>List 3 of your all-time favourite movies? </i></b><br />
Pan’s Labyrinth, Chocolat, The Last of the Mohicans<br />
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<b><i>What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed? </i></b><br />
Once Upon a Time<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d0f5346/" id="rc-d0f5346" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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</script>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bfSor4HKgg6hEkFINAOzA1qN62F1ooL7yhMRInsrfG1n4JPWuMvMLwPOnFeVA4iAtHcMywQv8YeztyQ-NQ8ux23WP0MuU2uxgjnayEAH1tN5vREC4chQ840QezFuZp22tQUgWNFI68Gd/s1600/Marsha+A+Moore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bfSor4HKgg6hEkFINAOzA1qN62F1ooL7yhMRInsrfG1n4JPWuMvMLwPOnFeVA4iAtHcMywQv8YeztyQ-NQ8ux23WP0MuU2uxgjnayEAH1tN5vREC4chQ840QezFuZp22tQUgWNFI68Gd/s1600/Marsha+A+Moore.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>About Marsha A. Moore</b><br />
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Marsha A. Moore loves to write fantasy romance. The magic of art and nature spark life into her writing. Her creativity also spills into watercolor painting and drawing. After a move from Toledo to Tampa in 2008, she's happily transforming into a Floridian, in love with the outdoors. </div>
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Crazy about cycling, she usually passes the 1,000 mile mark yearly. She is learning kayaking and already addicted. She's been a yoga enthusiast for over a decade and that spiritual quest helps her explore the mystical side of fantasy. She never has enough days spent at the beach, usually scribbling away at new stories with toes wiggling in the sand. Every day at the beach is magical!</div>
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| <b><a href="http://marshaamoore.com/">Website</a></b> | <b><a href="http://marshaamoore.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></b> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/landing/B004NF6E08/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=ritkalsboor04-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957" target="_blank"><b>Amazon Author Page</b></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=ritkalsboor04-20&l=ur2&o=1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> | <b><a href="http://fantasy-faction.com/staff-members?uid=38">Fantasy Faction Staff Page</a></b> |</div>
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| <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/marshaamooreauthorpage">Facebook Page</a></b> | <a href="http://twitter.com/MarshaAMoore"><b>Twitter</b></a> | <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/100564214132835514192/posts"><b>Google +</b></a> | <b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/marshaamoore">Goodreads Author Page</a></b> |</div>
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<b>About Seeking a Scribe: Enchanted Bookstore Legend One</b></div>
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Lyra McCauley is a writer and loves fantasy novels, but until she opens a selection from bookstore owner Cullen Drake, she has no idea he’s a wizard character who lives a double life inside that volume…or the story’s magic will compel her from the edge of depression to adventure, danger, and love.</div>
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His gift to Lyra, the Book of Dragonspeir, was actually her copy, misplaced years ago. Lost in her pain following divorce and death, she fails to recognize him as her childhood playmate from the fantasy land. Friendship builds anew. Attraction sparks. But Lyra doubts whether a wizard is capable of love. She’s torn—should she protect her fragile heart or risk new love?</div>
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Opening the book’s cover, she confronts a quest: save Dragonspeir from destruction by the Black Dragon before he utilizes power of August’s red moon to expand his strength and overthrow the opposing Imperial Dragon. Lyra accepts the challenge, fearing Cullen will perish if evil wins. Along with magical animal guides, Cullen helps her through many perils, but ultimately Lyra must use her own power…and time is running out.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007JVYSSI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=ritkalsboor04-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007JVYSSI">Buy on Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=ritkalsboor04-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B007JVYSSI" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b></div>
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</script>Ritesh Kalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01714502255650478934noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126616368409693491.post-56911892350515433632012-07-10T19:37:00.000+02:002012-07-10T19:37:28.481+02:00I am a blogger, and I am pissed! #1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I have been </span>blogging<span style="text-align: justify;"> for the past 8 months, and I am surprised at the rate at which my now dormant blog </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Ritesh Kala’s Book Reviews</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> and my current blog home, </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Alexia's Chronicles</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> has become known to authors. I have had some authors virtually steal my heart by how they've approached me for a book review, guest post, interview or blog tour, always gracious and understanding and not being pushy.</span></div>
Having said that… there have been some that have royally pissed me off with their attitudes. Having talked to other bloggers, I now realize that this is not a problem which is faced by me only. So, I am going to vent a little. I hope all authors read this and take something away from it. I am definitely not ‘attacking’ authors as a whole, just positive criticism. <b>This is going to be (at least) a three-part series, so be sure to come back! </b><br />
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<b>1. Read the review policy:</b> This is the one I’ve heard every blogger crib about, and I do mean EVERY! With the rise of indie authors, the number of review requests we bloggers get has gone through the roof. I know you authors are busy, what with all the writing and editing, marketing and spending ‘quality’ time on Facebook, but we have a life and commitments too. So, the least an author can do is read through the review policy of a blog and follow the guidelines. If I like to read fantasy and SF, don’t send me requests for women’s literature. On my blog, I currently state that I am not taking any more review requests. This, authors would know if they took the time to read the bloody review policy. But, I’m amazed. I still get review requests by email.<br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">~Alexia: This is a major pet peeve of mine. Why should we, as bloggers take the time to read a book as well as write a review when an author doesn’t take the time to read our review policy? It takes 5 minutes (not even) to read through our policy… it’s take us a good couple of hours to read a novel. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHU6pqAnpDLPtUWqN0v8y7aazCaLd-uH4ueR_d6eSsyRuaCLub7yWSS4VXYotGd_QCD31dtviYjVbiPXx3_d73sXW2OnlFniy0FRwNjr-yuLoFFm39eiUMUqxxIGnDpvMVsmVImPuXNeO/s1600/Open_Envelope_clip_art_medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHU6pqAnpDLPtUWqN0v8y7aazCaLd-uH4ueR_d6eSsyRuaCLub7yWSS4VXYotGd_QCD31dtviYjVbiPXx3_d73sXW2OnlFniy0FRwNjr-yuLoFFm39eiUMUqxxIGnDpvMVsmVImPuXNeO/s200/Open_Envelope_clip_art_medium.png" width="150" /></a></div>
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<b>2. Draft personal review requests:</b> How many of you bloggers have received a review request starting with “Dear Blogger …”, say Aye! I really wonder how that is possible with my blog; my blog name and URL both contain my name. Hmmm … I really have no clue. I think they’re sending out mass emails to bloggers off a list generated by someone. Frankly, if the authors cannot take the time to visit my blog, read the review policy, take a look around, or even draft a personalized email, I definitely don’t have the 10-15 hours I will spend on reading their books. <span style="color: #674ea7;"> ~Alexia: Amen</span></div>
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<b><i>Actual letter: </i></b> "I came across your site via explain how you found the site and can see that you’re a fan of the fantasy books. ADD IN 2-3 sentences of personalization based on reading the blogger’s bio and taking a quick look around their site. And I’ve followed you on list sites you followed them on, so we can stay in touch that way now too. ...." <span style="color: #674ea7;">~Alexia: Kinda insulting… this is our passion, it’s what we love. Our parents gave us names – USE IT.</span></div>
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<b>3. Don’t attach your books with the review request:</b> Do I need to say more? Really? Assuming I will be interested in a book and will just accept it, even if it is in a genre I love is the fastest way to get me to reach for the Delete button. Just don’t do it. And, I recently heard of one author who sent out unsolicited Amazon gifts of his book to bloggers. I assume he has a ton of money he likes to throw away. In that case, why don’t you just send some my way? I could really use that new <a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Wireless-Reader-Wifi-Graphite/dp/B002Y27P3M%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dritkalsboor04-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB002Y27P3M" rel="amazon" target="_blank" title="Kindle Wireless Reading Device, Wi-Fi, 6" Display, Graphite - Latest Generation">Kindle</a>. <span style="color: #674ea7;">~Alexia: Oh, me too please ;)</span></div>
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<b>4. Don’t assume your book is the best thing since sliced cheese:</b> “Hi, I’d like to request a review for my book. It is in the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fantasy" rel="wikipedia" target="_blank" title="Fantasy">fantasy genre</a> and I see that you love books in this genre. I just know you are going to love my book. It is really great and has a terrific story with so many twists; your head might start spinning! As I know it is something you are really going to enjoy, when can I send you a copy and which format would you like it in?” This is what I got as a review request once, well not exactly this, but you get the picture. I may or may not have embellished it a little. There was a link to the book on Amazon in there too. No asking if I want it, just shove it down my throat, right? As I said, don’t assume your book is the best thing since sliced cheese.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqQDDddakm4qJJxviPRNeZHHUOFSRVVHyzFrEKIWjQRffmoMJbYrriQvOj1HvgcrGUoGvtCmAQX-pa0hvh_lN3lMzMNVBXb_WFbBDKAjkS8-zLGxpoNkj4FYY5pM0qzZuM-JnIUWFMMDi/s1600/ebookpiracy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqQDDddakm4qJJxviPRNeZHHUOFSRVVHyzFrEKIWjQRffmoMJbYrriQvOj1HvgcrGUoGvtCmAQX-pa0hvh_lN3lMzMNVBXb_WFbBDKAjkS8-zLGxpoNkj4FYY5pM0qzZuM-JnIUWFMMDi/s320/ebookpiracy1.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
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<b>5. Not giving out review copies:</b> Wow, this one is a doozie, and something I will not forget for a long time. I had one author approach me to review his book, and I asked for a review copy, he just sent me a link to the book on Amazon. Wondering what was going on, I asked him if he would be sending me a review copy. This is when he tells me that he can’t send out digital review copies, as there is a possibility that the book will be pirated. What? Really? This is your first book and you are not J K Rowling. If you think bloggers are pirates, why do you approach them? Do you know I could very well pirate your book if I wanted to even if I bought it from Amazon? And, to top it all off, a couple months later, he was giving his book away for free in KDP Select. *shakes head* Of course, I took all this as a personal insult, and refused to review the book. Come to think of it, I think I let him off a little too nicely!<br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">So AUTHORS, what do you think? Do you think this is too harsh? Do you believe avoiding these 'pitfalls' would help you in getting a better 'hit rate' with bloggers?</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">And BLOGGERS, tell me if you've had similar experiences. Also, what is your biggest pet peeve regarding how authors approach you with review requests? Leave a comment below, and I could add it to my ever expanding list. Of course I'll give you due credit to bringing it to my attention and will add a link to your blog to the posts.</span><br />
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