Showing posts with label 2018 Book Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2018 Book Review. Show all posts

Friday, December 21, 2018

BENEATH THE LIGHTHOUSE by Julieanne Lynch Official Blog Tour



Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Vesuvian Books (June 26, 2018)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1944109188
ISBN-13: 978-1944109189




SOME SECRETS ARE MADE TO BE UNCOVERED.

Sixteen-year-old Jamie McGuiness’s sister is dead. Sinking into a deep depression, he frequents the lighthouse where her body was discovered, unaware of the sinister forces surrounding him.

When an angry spirit latches onto Jamie, he’s led down a dark and twisted path, one that uncovers old family secrets, destroying everything Jamie ever believed in.

Caught between the world of the living and the vengeful dead, Jamie fights the pull of the other side. It’s up to Jamie to settle old scores or no one will rest in peace—but, first, he has to survive.


You can purchase Beneath the Lighthouse at the following Retailers:

  

Praise for BENEATH THE LIGHTHOUSE

“Beneath the Lighthouse grabs you by the nether regions from the word go. Then it squeezes. Hard. With a nailed glove … A truly scary ghost story … a powerful ‘coming of age’ drama … a young man growing into adulthood against a backdrop of despair and quite shocking abuse … unpredictable and ever building. Blood and bone revenge, retribution and salvation. The strength of friendship, the power of love. You feel the dread and the underlying fear … not your typical tale. And what a tale it is.” ―EM Faustus


My Review

A dark tale with just the right amount of spook, this reader is so thrilled to go out of her comfort zone and devour this story and its emotional roller-coaster ride.

Jamie's family was a normal family. Having a strict father, but a loving one, Jamie's sister started being defiant and going against her father's wishes. She sneaks out one night, and that is when Jamie's life and family will change forever. Amer died a tragic way, and from that day, the family started to fall apart.

Jamie visits the place where his sister died. It's a place to get away from his abusive father, and take a break from taking care of his mother and siblings.  When he notices a ghost by the lighthouse, he thinks he might be going crazy...however he sees it again...and she starts to talk to him, and show him images of how she died. Then Jamie's already chaotic life starts to spin out of control, and the real horror begins.

I became so engrossed in this story...I LOVED the language spoken. It was so different and fun to read.  I love the relationship between Jamie and his best friend. Their humorous cut downs and honesty was a beacon of light shining through all the darkness, abuse, and cruelty. It is a fantastic story full of surprises, and twists...WOW, I never could have predicted that one! One??  How about two or three?  Yeah, it throws you in a spin! I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!  (how is it that I find such great reads all the time??) It is definitely a read for the older side of YA. Jamie is such a strong character, proving that you can rise above the torment, and not be defined by family circumstances. LOVED IT! Highly recommend this story, with just the right amount of spook for this scaredy pants!





Photo Content from Julieanne Lynch

Julieanne Lynch is an author of YA and Adult genre urban fantasy, crime and contemporary romance books. Julieanne was born in Northern Ireland, but spent much of her early life in London, United Kingdom, until her family relocated back to their roots.

Julieanne lives in Northern Ireland, with her husband and five children, where she is a full-time author. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at The Open University and considered journalism as a career path. Julieanne has several projects optioned for film.

Julieanne is both traditionally and independently published.

        
PART ONE
DECEMBER 17th MONDAY Sassy Book Lovers TENS LIST
DECEMBER 17th MONDAY TTC Books and More GUEST POST
DECEMBER 18th TUESDAY Stephanie's Life of Determination REVIEW & EXCERPT
DECEMBER 19th WEDNESDAY Movies, Shows, & Books EXCERPT
DECEMBER 20th THURSDAY A Dream Within A Dream TENS LIST
DECEMBER 21st FRIDAY Insane About Books REVIEW


PART TWO
DECEMBER 22nd SATURDAY A Court of Coffee and Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 22nd SATURDAY Sara Is Reading What? REVIEW
DECEMBER 23rd SUNDAY Oh Hey! Books INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 23rd SUNDAY My Book Addiction REVIEW
DECEMBER 24th MONDAY BookHounds INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 25th TUESDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 26th WEDNESDAY Casia's Corner REVIEW

DECEMBER 26th WEDNESDAY Wishful Endings TENS LIST

PART THREE
DECEMBER 27th THURSDAY 100 Pages A Day REVIEW
DECEMBER 27th THURSDAY Lisa Loves Literature EXCERPT
DECEMBER 28th FRIDAY RhythmicBooktrovert REVIEW 

DECEMBER 28th FRIDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
DECEMBER 29th SATURDAY My Chaotic Ramblings REVIEW
DECEMBER 29th SATURDAY Sabrina's Paranormal Palace REVIEW
DECEMBER 30th SUNDAY Book Lovers Life EXCERPT

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*
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Thursday, December 13, 2018

THE CIRCUS THIEF by Alane Adams Official Blog Tour




SYNOPSIS

The circus is in town, and Georgie has his heart set on going. When Papa agrees to take him and his friend Harley, the boys marvel at the amazing elephants and clowns. But the best act of all is the amazing Roxie, a trained horse who can do all sorts of tricks. When Georgie is invited to ride on her back, he discovers it’s her last show―Roxie is going to be sent to the work farm! When Roxie bolts with Georgie on her back, Papa must come to his rescue.

The Circus Thief is a heartwarming tale of boyhood set in 1920s Pennsylvania for children ages 4–8.  


Praise for THE CIRCUS THIEF
“The circus is bursting with amazing sights and sounds, from clowns and elephants to a lady with a beard, in The Circus Thief, a delightfully nostalgic tale of compassion, kindness, and generosity.” ―Foreword Clarion Reviews

“Bright, brave characters star in this exhilarating tale of magic and mystical creatures.” ―Kirkus Reviews

My Review

The Circus Thief is the fourth book in this series, set in the historical time of the 1920's. It brings to life a beautiful adventure of attending a circus for an award of doing your chores.

The thrill of this new experience comes to life with absolutely gorgeous illustrations.

With an unexpected twist, this short story is full of lessons that can start a great conversation with your little one.

A fun read that all the little ones will enjoy!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Alane Adams is a children’s author, professor, and literacy advocate. She is the author of the Legends of Orkney fantasy mythology series for tweens; she also writes Early American picture books for young children. Adams lives in Southern California.  

PHOTO CONTENT FROM ALANE ADAMS

WEBSITE: https://alaneadams.com/
TWITTER: @AlaneAdamsBooks
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8348634.Alane_Adams
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AlaneAdamsBooks/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/alaneadamsbooks/



--Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter

-  1 Winner will receive an Exclusive THE CIRCUS THIEF by Alane Adams Gift Box.

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Tuesday, December 11, 2018

7th GRADE REVOLUTION by Liana Gardner REVIEW Blog Tour and giveaway



SYNOPSIS

WHEN UNEARTHING A NATIONAL TREASURE BECOMES A NATIONAL INCIDENT

Inspired by True Events

Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.

Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird.


7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.

The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.

To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR



AWARDS
2018 American Fiction Awards Winner for Pre-Teen Fiction (Ages 10-12)
2018 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Finalist for Best Juvenile Fiction
2018 International Book Awards Finalist for Children's Fiction
2018 Hollywood Book Festival Honorable Mention for Children's Fiction


My Review

Thrilling Middle grade read with adventure and excitement!

The 7th grade class of Washington Academy Middle grade receive news that were not expecting for the day. They are NOW in charge. Given no instruction, they are put in charge of making changes for the school.  As you would expect, it's total chaos. Few are leaders, most are goofballs, and it is starting to get difficult keeping any kind of organization.  They agree to go to the basement, they call the dungeon, to vote on a few items put on the white board.  After the voting is finished, they start to leave, and discover something isn't quite right with the school. It's too quiet...way too quiet...

"Officials" are outside, however, with some detective work, they discover what is actually going on....and their situation totally changes.  They band together, figure out the clues, and go on an adventure of a lifetime.

I so loved this story!  It is consuming, full of humor (how could it not be with 7th graders!), and explodes with creativity. All the characters have different personalities that you easily fall in love with.  Even though some of them clash, when it comes right down to the mission of protecting the school, they all come together with their individual skills.

I really recommend this story for all middle grade readers...boys and girls. It is a story that you can't put down, and will probably keep the reader up late at night! For older readers, it will bring back memories that you didn't know you forgot!







Praise for 7th GRADE REVOLUTION

"7th Grade Revolution is a thrilling and engrossing ride through past and present based on real events in North Carolina. Though technically a middle grade book, I feel readers of all ages will enjoy this novel. Trust me, you won't want to put it down." ―Tracy Riva, Midwest Book Review

"... a stunning new Middle Grade novel that is part historical fiction, part action adventure mystery, and all around fun. Featuring a cast of wacky, interesting kids I was hooked on page one and enjoyed every twist and turn of the creative plot. Gardner is a writer to watch." ―Dan Elish, Award-Winning Author of BORN TOO SHORT: The Confessions of an Eighth-Grade Basket Case

"... an exciting, smartly written book filled with adventure, intrigue, and history in a modern school setting. Luke Spooner's accompanying art is simply spot on. I can't wait for my daughter to read this, and there's no higher compliment than that." ―Mercedes M. Yardley, Bram Stoker Award-Winning Author of Little Dead Red

So, I arrived home earlier today to find your book on my front porch and I have just come up for air, realizing that I haven't even eaten since I picked it up. (It's 11:00) I don't even know where to begin. Should I start with the dedication that brought me to tears? The first time I saw my name as the teacher and I gasped? (I really had forgotten that you had said you would use my name!) The fact that the beginning of the book is so very reminiscent of the real thing? The illustration toward the end when I saw myself? All of those things were beyond my expectations, but what I really want to say is that the book held me captive from beginning to end. You captured the middle school mind perfectly, showing their insecurities as well as the amazing strength that is just below the surface. Bravo! It is a wonderful book and I can see it being used during a study of government as a class read. The illustrator is also superb. I could go on and on. (I also am really amazed at how you captured me as a teacher ... how did you do that?) So thank you, thank you, thank you! I loved every part of this book and I am so very proud, as I said earlier, to have had any part in it. ―Karen Rectanus, Exploris Middle School    


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Liana Gardner is the award-winning author of 7th Grade Revolution and the Misfit McCabeseries. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.

She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.

Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”  

PHOTO CONTENT FROM LIANA GARDNER

WEBSITE: http://lianagardner.com/
TWITTER: 
@lkgg
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16959433.Liana_Gardner
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/lianakgardner
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/liana.gardner/    


--Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter

-  1 Winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card.
- 1 Winner will receive an Award-winning 2017 MG, 7th Grade Revolution Swag (Mugs, Playing Cards, T-Shirts) by Liana Gardner.

LAUNCH PARTY SCHEDULE

PART ONE
DECEMBER 10th MONDAY JeanBookNerd REVIEW 
DECEMBER 11th TUESDAY Insane About Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 12th WEDNESDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
DECEMBER 13th THURSDAY Ms. Cats Honest World  REVIEW 
DECEMBER 13th THURSDAY Oh Hey! Books EXCERPT
DECEMBER 14th FRIDAY RhythmicBooktrovert REVIEW 

PART TWO  
DECEMBER 15th SATURDAY TTC Books and More EXCERPT
DECEMBER 15th SATURDAY My Chaotic Ramblings REVIEW & EXCERPT
DECEMBER 16th SUNDAY Sabrina's Paranormal Palace  REVIEW
DECEMBER 17th MONDAY BookHounds YA REVIEW
DECEMBER 18th TUESDAY Movies, Shows, & Books REVIEW 
DECEMBER 19th WEDNESDAY A Dream Within A Dream REVIEW

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK by Mary Ting Official Blog Tour



SYNOPSIS

What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night…

Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword.

But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him.   

Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.

Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father.

On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls.

She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her.

Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.


Praise for JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK

A mash-up of "Jack and the Beanstalk" and "Lord of the Rings" ... RECOMMENDED ―School Library Journal

"Keenly descriptive and eloquently written with touches of sixteenth-century language, the story takes the reader into the world of monsters controlled by a diabolical villain, and into a land of mystery and magic beans." ―Readers' Favorite Review

"Mary Ting managed to surprise me at every turn, even though I must have read this story a million times as a kid. The most impressive surprise was the creation of a girl protagonist who is so much better than the original Jack. Then she brings in the boy, Jack, as the love interest. Sheer genius and a great idea. The writing is great. The plot is good, and the various themes woven throughout the story make it a very compelling tale." ―Readers' Favorite Review

Mary Ting writes with an adventurous heart, a clever pen, introducing young readers to a classic that meets fantasy, shedding light on the family devotion and a love story that buds to completion by the end. This short novel comes as a highly recommended read for parents and young adults that prefer fantasy fiction with a Christian-based theme and a creative perspective. Mary Ting is one of those writers to notice and watch. ―Kingdom's Review  

TEASER – JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK
Mother crinkled her nose. “Don’t fret. You’re of marriageable age now. We must think of finding you a husband or your time will pass. I’m only thinking of your future, Jaclyn. I want to see you settled soon. Your father and I are not getting younger.”
“Getting married and bearing children is not for me. There’s much work to be done.”
I slipped my arms around her waist and pressed my head to her back. I inhaled deeply as warmth enveloped me and her love replaced the fright from my nightmares.
Safe. I am safe. No monsters.
“Our life is good here. Why would I want to fix what is not broken?”
“’Tis what we do. People will talk.”
“Let them.”
I scowled, anger boiling through my veins. I tended to not raise my voice, so I softened my tone out of respect.
“I will not be handed to a suitor I do not love.”
Mother patted my arm. “My child, you have much to learn. Love comes later. I did not love your father at first.”
“I will not follow other people’s ways.” Pouting, I shuffled my feet on the dirt.
She released a deep sigh. “Oh, Jaclyn. Your time will come. Everyone has a destiny. Everyone has a story to tell. Some more than others. We shall see what lies ahead for you. Fate will lead you to the path you are meant to take.”
I wished I had eyes for the future. I wanted to know a demon would not seize my soul, and I wanted to see a path without the nighttime cries. They must be monsters. I’d never heard a human throat make such tortured sounds.
What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night?
Illness swept through my stomach. A shudder racked me, beginning in my gut, forewarning me.
Copyright © 2018 by Mary Ting



 

  My Review

A fairytale retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, Jaclyn and the Beanstalk puts a whole new twist that is full of mystery, fantasy, and biblical concept.

Jaclyn is a strong female lead in this story.  She is well trained by her father, while living in isolation from the rest of the village.  When word of monsters are starting to terrorize the small villages around the mountain, Jaclyn's father, along with very few men, decide to ride off into the night to try and stop the destruction. When they don't return, Jaclyn decides to take matters into her own hands and put her training to use. She can not abandon her father.

As darkness grows, so does Jaclyn's will. Her confidence grows beautifully as the story progresses, with twists and darkness. But with the darkness of despair, so shines the power of unconditional love and forgiveness.

Through the evil, Jaclyn finds comfort in her childhood friend, Jack.  I fell in love with their chemistry immediately. Their bond unites them to stay strong and powerful as a team....and their banter back and forth is a ray of bliss.

This story will entice your imagination with creative imagery and a dynamic plot. It will dominate your emotions.....from start to finish.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Mary Ting is an international bestselling, award-winning author. She writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers around the world. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise.

Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching after twenty years. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.

Mary resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two little dogs, Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Being a huge Twilight fan, Mary was inspired to make book-themed jewelry and occasionally gives it away as prizes to her fans.  

PHOTO CONTENT FROM MARY TING

WEBSITE: http://www.tangledtalesofting.com/
TWITTER: 
@MaryTing
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4388953.Mary_Ting
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryTing
INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/authormaryting
  

--Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter

-  Winner will receive a $25 Dollar PayPal/Amazon Gift Card.
- Winner will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card.

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Sunday, November 18, 2018

The Field by Ian Dawson Review



Published July 4th 2018 by BookBaby

Synopsis

When fourteen-year-old Daniel Robinson is abducted during a game of hide-and-seek, his focus switches from enjoying his summer vacation to simply staying alive. He must find the courage and strength to escape his captors and get home, no matter what it takes. Will he survive? Or is this a nightmare that's too real to escape?

As Daniel finds himself at the mercy of his captors, his best friend Kyle sets out to bring him back to safety. With nothing but teenage instincts to guide him, Kyle's quest could result in a happy ending—or in tragedy.

In his first novel, author Ian Dawson draws from his real-life experiences to create an action-adventure story about unconditional friendship, courage, and determination.



My Review

INTENSE read from the first to the last page. A toe-curling read that will shock your mind, break your emotions, and compel you to open your eyes.

Daniel and Kyle are your typical young teenage boys, going on adventures together, expanding their imaginations, along with their typical guy talk and learning about puberty.

Until one adventure goes wrong, Daniel is kidnapped by an insane bully, and he learns more about himself in one night than he ever will for the rest of his life. Survival instincts kick in, and he knows he has to do something, anything to survive. Kyle is distraught, lying to parents to cover for Daniel, and searching frantically for his best friend. In the end, Daniel an Kyle escape as heroes.

You need to read this book to discover the intensity of it. It's difficult to review without giving away any spoilers. The toxic friendship of Austin and James will baffle your mind, Austin being of pure evil, and James knowing right from wrong, however utterly controlled  by Austin who threatens his safety.

As a mother, when I first starting reading this story, I didn't know if I could handle the torture and pain...it is in fact, every parent's nightmare for their children. However, I had to keep reading, I had to know the outcome. And as I kept reading, I couldn't put it down. 

I would recommend this book. I honestly think it could help open young adults eyes to the relationships they have in their lives.



AND I would recommend reading a book from cover to cover. Many authors put vital information that could be helpful. So check this out at the end.

Resources (from the author)
If you suspect a friend or family member has been abducted, don't act on your own. Contact your local authorities or The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at
http://www.missingkids.com
or call 1-800-843-5678

If you are in a toxic friendship or relationship and need to talk to someone, contact Crisis Text Line at 741741 int he US, or contact your local authorities.
There is help out there. Get it


About the Author

Ian Dawson has been writing his entire life. He started when he was a kid writing puppet shows to perform for his friends and family, then started writing and drawing comic strips as well. Ian has always enjoyed writing stories that are entertaining and fun, which led him to get his BA in Dramatic Art at UC Davis where he wrote and directed a popular comedy play and a variety of short films. Ian also wrote a play that was produced through Sacramento State University and worked at the Sacramento Educational Cable Consortium and Davis Media Access writing and producing content.

Ian later moved to Los Angeles to work on his Masters in Screenwriting at Cal State Northridge. While there he wrote a number of screenplays and interned at Lionsgate and Paramount Pictures. Ian has written educational/training videos for American Eagle Outfitters and Ralphs Grocery Company.

After working on it for 15 years, Ian finally published his first novel, The Field, which he is excited and proud to present to readers all around the world.

Ian loves to read, write, hang out with friends, travel, cook, and try new things. He also loves writing comedy and making others laugh. He currently lives in Los Angeles, California.

Twenty-five years ago author Ian Dawson was kidnapped by two older teen boys in a field behind his home in Redding, California. They held him captive for several hours and assaulted him before finally setting him free. This traumatic experience became the inspiration behind his debut YA thriller novel, The Field (BookBaby, Sept. 28, 2018).