Storm Siren ~ Review

Storm Siren
By Mary Weber

Storm Siren is the first book in a trilogy of the same name and in a word - WOW! 

Nym, which is short for Nymia, is a slave and has been since her parents violent death.  But Nym can't keep an owner and she is about to be sold to her fifteenth master.  But there is a secret about Nym, a secret that leaves destruction in her wake.  She is an Elemental who can't control her powers.  And she shouldn't exist, but she does.  And her very existence may change the course of war that the small island kingdom of Faelen has been in for 100 years.  A war that is not going in Faelen's favor.

But first Nym must agree to train as a weapon, learning to control the power that seemingly controls her.  If she doesn't accept this opportunity she faces death...  Nym accepts this challenge, though she doesn't believe control of her powers can be achieved.  But she hasn't met Eogan the man tasked with training her in the mastery of her curse.

But even greater danger awaits as her new owner Adora watches her every move and threats lie beneath the surface of every command.  And worst of all Nym doesn't know who she can trust.

I was totally swept up in this story.  It had a draw and I literally couldn't put it down as I read it in one afternoon.  There was a beauty in this story that was always present just as Nym's goodness was hidden beneath the surface and yet there.  Her guilt at the deaths she caused was real.  As she struggles to find who she really is and was meant to be one struggles with her.

I like that Storm Siren seems complete until the very end and then the trap is sprung and you are left wondering What????  And then your next thought is Poor Nym, what's she going to do?

My only complaint is I want to read book 2 now. But as the old saying goes Books don't grow on trees... (Yes, I know it is actually money but books would be better.)

Storm Siren is releasing on August 19, 2014 so get in line for a book you won't regret!

I was provided a digital copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Description

"I raise my chin as the buyers stare. Yes. Look. You don’t want me. Because, eventually, accidentally, I will destroy you."

In a world at war, a slave girl’s lethal curse could become one kingdom’s weapon of salvation. If the curse—and the girl—can be controlled.

As a slave in the war-weary kingdom of Faelen, seventeen-year-old Nym isn’t merely devoid of rights, her Elemental kind are only born male and always killed at birth—meaning, she shouldn’t even exist.

Standing on the auction block beneath smoke-drenched mountains, Nym faces her fifteenth sell. But when her hood is removed and her storm-summoning killing curse revealed, Nym is snatched up by a court advisor and given a choice: be trained as the weapon Faelen needs to win the war, or be killed.

Choosing the former, Nym is unleashed into a world of politics, bizarre parties, and rumors of an evil more sinister than she’s being prepared to fight . . . not to mention the handsome trainer whose dark secrets lie behind a mysterious ability to calm every lightning strike she summons.

But what if she doesn’t want to be the weapon they’ve all been waiting for?

Set in a beautifully eclectic world of suspicion, super abilities, and monsters, Storm Siren is a story of power. And whoever controls that power will win.

Sense and Sensibility ~ Review

Sense and Sensibility
A Latter-day Tale
By Rebecca H. Jamison

If you love all things Jane Austen you need to read Rebecca Jamison's newest Austen offering Sense and Sensibility: A Latter-day Tale.  The Goodwin family has lost just about everything since their father's death.  

But when Elly and her little sister Grace meet Ethan Ferrero their lives are about to change.  Ethan is the brother of the woman who stole Elly's fiancee, Jake.  

But Ethan offers Elly the possibility of a job - the catch - she'd have to work for her former fiancee and his wife.  With her sister Maren suffering from depression since their father's death and their home about to be foreclosed, Elly takes the offered job.  But working for Candi and Jake is not easy.  

Ethan is nice even if he is a Ferrero.  But Elly's not about to take a chance where her heart is concerned.   But when Maren finds the possibility of love in a handsome rescuer named Wyatt she is determined to experience life to its fullest.  

Both Elly and Maren are about to discover where their happiness truly lies and if they have a happily ever after in their futures.  This is a delightful and enjoyable modern twist on Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility.  If you like clean romance this is the story for you.  I love the emphasis that is placed upon the value of family and friendship.  This is a sweet story that doesn't overload you on sugar.  

I was provided a digital copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my review and tour participation.

About the book:

Which is the key to love—passion or sensibility? Sensible Elly and romantic Maren are sisters trying to hold their family together in the wake of their father’s bankruptcy and death. As each unexpectedly encounters the madness and misadventures of love, will they ever find the true happiness they dream of? This modern re-imagining of the Jane Austen favorite will capture your heart all over again.

About the author: 

Rebecca H. Jamison has lived on a live volcano, excavated the bones of a prehistoric mammal, and won first prize at a rigged chili cook-off. She wrote novels just for fun until she made a New Year’s resolution in 2011 to submit a manuscript to publishers. Her first two published works are Persuasion: A Latter-day Tale and Emma: A Latter-day Tale. Rebecca grew up in Virginia. She attended Brigham Young University, where she earned a BA and MA in English. In between college and graduate school, she served a mission to Portugal and the Cape Verde islands. Her job titles have included special education teacher’s aide, technical writer, English teacher, and stay-at-home mom. Rebecca enjoys running, dancing, reading, and watching detective shows. She lives with her husband and children in Utah. You can learn more about her at www.rebeccahjamison.com. 

Check-out the entire blog tour here

Waiting for Heaven ~ Book Blast and Giveaway

Title: Waiting for Heaven: Finding Beauty in the Pain and the Struggle

Author: Heather Gillis

Genre: Religion / Memoir / Spirituality

Publisher: WestBow Press

Publication Date: March 20, 2014

ISBN: 978-1-4908-2786-5

Life can sometimes lead us to unexpected places, to only leave us broken, desperate, and hurting. Heather
Gillis and her husband, Mac, waited in anticipation for the birth of their third child. Like many Christian
couples, their dreams and expectations in marriage, parenthood, and daily life developed differently than
they’d planned, and left them grieving a life that would never be. Their journey gives insight into a new
normal and uncovers the stepping stones of the healing process. In their process, they re- discovered
God’s abounding love through their experiences of joy, heartbreak, and purpose. Heather reaches out
to parents around the globe to speak openly about being a wife, mother, friend, relative, or stranger
during life-changing trials and devastating struggles. In God’s love, she has found beauty in the midst of
pain and struggle, as well as peace in His presence on Earth while waiting for Heaven.

Book Excerpt: 

Life is not about how comfortable I can be; to expect life to be comfortable is unrealistic. I’m not exempt from the harshness or pain of this world. I have realized since Bowen’s passing that there are no guarantees in life; to think otherwise leads to disappointment. When I was pregnant, I assumed Bowen would be healthy. I assumed that when I left the house, I would return, unharmed. I assumed for some
reason I would make it through life unscathed; I never thought I would be writing these words.

We can do all the right things in life, but that doesn’t guarantee us rewards or benefits in this life. We did not choose the path we are walking, but God willing, we will endure what comes our way and to where God wants us to go. We can have all the plans in the world but God is in the driver’s seat, and God knows what he is doing; we just have to trust him. Uncomfortable situations have taught me to trust in God, and I have learned more than I ever thought I would; and still am.

Purchase Book at:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Goodreads

About the Author:
Meet Heather Gillis. In her book, Waiting for Heaven, Heather recalls the story of her infant son, Bowen, and her family's journey with polycystic kidney disease. Through Bowen's short life and death, she and her husband, Mac, discovered the true meaning of God’s love and grace. By telling her poignant story in the book and speaking to groups, Heather hopes she can help others through the challenges of loss and devastation; giving hope that their can be joy and happiness again.

After Bowen's death, Heather founded Bowen's Hope, a ministry serving kidney disease kids and their families, especially those getting dialysis treatments at Phoenix Children's Hospital. She's also involved with Camp Maska for dialysis patients in Arizona, and has raised over $50,000 for the PKD Foundation. In addition, Heather volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House, an organization serving meals and providing temporary housing to families with children in the hospital. Heather works part time as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. She and Mac have two living children, Brooklyn and Blake. With a serving heart, Heather’s passions are her family and helping others.

Visit Heather online at www.bowenshope.com

Contact Heather at:
Website: www.bowenshope.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bowenshope.com // www.facebook.com/heather.gillis.581
Twitter: www.twitter.com/heathergillis6
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8112025.Heather_Gillis

Contest Giveaway

Pump Up Your Book and Author Heather Gillis 

are teaming up to give away a 

$25 Amazon Gift 

Card!

Terms & Conditions:

• By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.

• One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive the prize.

• This giveaway begins August 1 and ends on August 29, 2014.

• Winner will be contacted via email on September 1, 2014.

• Winner has 72 hours to reply.

• VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

Good luck everyone!

ENTER TO WIN!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Every Waking Moment ~ Review

Every Waking Moment
By Chris Fabry

Treha Langsam has a gift, but most people can't see it because it is hidden away inside the body of woman who is damaged.  She has no memory of her childhood, though she longs for one.  In fact Treha is so intent on have a story and past that she'll borrow someone else's story to see if she can make it her own.

But the residents of Desert Gardens see and recognize Treha's gift, because she uses it in her daily dealings with them.  She helps them in a way no one can truly understand.  She draws them back to a awareness of what they use to be.

But Treha's past is missing for a reason.  She is the answer to some baffling medical issues that have recently been brought to light.  But her very existence is also a threat.

Who is Treha?  And can her life ever be anything more than it is?  These are the questions that are the thread of the story.  And the answers lie in having respect for others, dignity during all stages of life, and the responsibilities of science.  This is a powerful and moving story that will touch your heart.

There are other stories running throughout Every Waking Moment - there is Miriam Howard who is the director of Desert Gardens and also Treha's advocate.  There is Dr. Crenshaw who takes a special interest in Treha and her talents.  Devin Hillis is documenting the residents of Desert Gardens hoping that he will find The Story that will make his fledgling company take flight.  And then Du'Relle who is Treha's young neighbor who is determined to be her protector though he has his own problems to deal with.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

Life Support ~ Review

Life Support
Grace Medical 3
By Candace Calvert

Lauren Barclay's life is all about nursing and her younger sister Jessica.
Meanwhile PA Elijah Landry's own life is in turmoil with a disabled brother with health issues, a father threatening him, and a young daughter to raise on his own.

But their personal and professional lives aren't the only storms affecting Houston.  With a hurricane bearing down on the Gulf Coast Lauren and Elijah's lives are going to get to a whole lot more stormy.

Lauren and Eli seem to feel that the future if their siblings rest on their shoulders.  Can these two hurting people learn to put their trust on God?  And can their families move past their pains and bridge the distances that have slowly worked their way into their lives?

Fans of Candace Calvert won't be disappointed in this  her newest book.  Get ready for some medical intrigue with a generous helping of romance thrown into the mix.

About the Book:

Nurse Lauren Barclay put her life on hold to keep a watchful eye on her troubled sister. It’s why she’s back in Houston. But that means confronting the brooding physician assistant who caused painful turmoil in her family—and left Lauren with memories her heart can’t forget.

PA and single parent Elijah Landry is no stranger to stormy relationships, including one with his father, who is threatening him with a restraining order. It won’t stop Eli from protecting his disabled brother—or from making peace with Lauren. He wants that and so much more.

But as Lauren and Eli draw closer, a powerful hurricane roars toward Houston. Survival instincts take priority and everything changes. Can hope weather the storm?

Firewall ~ Review

Firewall
FBI Houston 1
By Diann Mills

Taryn Young's life is just about perfect.  A whirlwind romance.  Marriage to the perfect man.  And now she's about to leave on her dream honeymoon.

But then everything is shattered.  The airport is the site of a terror attack no one saw coming.  Her new husband is missing.  She's in the hospital, being questioned as if she was the criminal behind this nightmare. But more is on the line than proving her innocence - the lives of those closest to her are now in danger.

The FBI has its job cut out for it.  All the evidence seems to be pointing towards Taryn and her new husband.  But Taryn maintains her innocence and something about her pleas makes Agent Grayson Hall wonder if Taryn may be just another victim, or if she might actually be the target.  But little evidence supports Taryn's claims.

As time passes the dangers and threats increase.  But who is behind this attack?  Is it domestic? or foreign? The truth will surprise you.

Fans of Diann Mills will not be disappointed in her newest book.  If you like romantic suspense this book is for you.

About the Book:

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?

With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.

The Traitor's Heir ~ Review

The Traitor's Heir
The Knight of Eldaran Book 1
By Anna Thayer

Every man has a destiny.
His is to betray...

Eamon Goodman is about to swear his loyalty and devotion to the Master.  This has been his goal and dream for many years.  But something occurs during this ceremony, something he cannot understand or explain.  But he is loyal until one of the Master's enemies causes him to question everything he has ever believed.  The battle for Eamon and his allegiance could cost him his life.

The Master has plans for Eamon, but what Eamon doesn't know is that he is of great importance to the King.  Eamon has a destiny to fulfill.  A destiny in which he must betray someone, the only question is whom will he betray.

This is the first book in The Knight of Eldaran series and though it is in of and itself unique fans of Lord of the Rings, Chroncicles of Narnia, and the Tales of Goldstone Wood will find much to delight and thrill them in The Traitor's Heir.  Eamon is caught up in an epic struggle, one in which he finds his loyalties tested.  To whom will Eamon ultimately pledge himself - for whom is he willing to die?  And who will feel the affects of his betrayal?

This is a book which I think would have broad appeal to Tweens, Teens, and Adults.  Fans of Fantasy fiction will be well pleased with the reading of this book, as it is well-written in both character believablity and a well-flowing plot.  This one story you'll want to read again and to share.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publish in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Every man has a destiny. His is to betray.

Like many from his village, young Eamon Goodman dreamed of joining the Gauntlet, the army of the overlord Eldered. Now he is about to complete his training and swear his loyalty to Eldered and his commanders, the Hands, who uphold Eldered’s tight control of the land.
Entering into the service of the Gauntlet, Eamon’s gifts, particularly his potent Sight, quickly become valuable to his superiors and he advances to the command rank at a speed that arouses the suspicions of fellow officers.

However, Eldered’s bloody rule, and Eamon’s personal friendships, start to challenge the young soldier’s assumptions about what might be true, and worthy of service. And soon Eamon must conceal a fatal secret: he is sworn to both Eldered and to Hughan, the rightful king of the land. Yet he may not forswear the vows he has uttered in all good faith so however he serves, his name will be traitor.
As tensions and military skirmishes increase, Eamon finds himself trusted by both his masters. How can he possibly maintain his integrity, act justly to his fellow officers of the Gauntlet, and act on behalf of all the warring people of the land?