When all is said and done: Vanquished by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Hi guys!

Happy Friday to one and all.

Thank you for making Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers a part of YOUR day…it makes me smile inside and out.  Speaking of smiles, don’t forget to get your entries in for the TWO CONTESTS currently running on the site.  One ends today and the other in a week or so….but the early bird catches the worm, or rather the prompt reader gets their entry in before the deadline, so be sure to check out all the fun before its too late!  Now, on to today’s post…

 So, it’s the LAST DAY of August; can you believe it?  2012 is sure flying by…at times, other times it drags its feet like a two year old in a candy store.  I couldn’t let the month close without getting in a review of a recently released title (just this week!) from an author duo that hasn’t let me down yet.  It’s from the Young Adult genre and features a paranormal (and normal) cast that covers the whole spectrum of creatures…okay, maybe not the WHOLE spectrum because then we’re looking at Cabin in the Woods and for those that saw the movie, we KNOW how well THAT turned out (*-*)...but at least a good portion of them reside within these pages.  It’s book three in a trilogy, as in THE FINAL BOOK in the set, so if you haven’t checked out the first two, I certainly suggest making a beeline for that YA section of your local bookstore because you’re gonna wanna read this.  For a quick refresher, you can check out my review of book 1 and book 2 right here on the site (<- just click the links, it’ll whisk you right over).  If not, let’s do this!  Kicking the weekend off with a BANG and diving into today’s book of choice…

 Crusade, book 3:

Vanquished

By

Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

From the publisher…

Hope is in short supply, but courage runs deep as the Salamancan hunters recover from a devastating loss. Jenn knows she must rally her team against the Cursed Ones, but her focus is shattered. She’s torn between passion for Antonio, who once fought by her side, and hate for the bloodthirsty vampire he’s become. His volatility is tearing apart their team...and Jenn’s trust.
 As the Cursed Ones amass new strength, Team Salamanca must strike together if they hope to survive, let alone defend humanity. Jenn wants to believe Antonio’s loyal to their cause—and their love—but she’s slowly losing her heart to Resistance fighter Noah. And if Antonio’s not careful, he may just end up with a stake in his.
 This gripping conclusion to an epic trilogy pairs steamy romance with heart-stopping action, and delivers an ending as dramatic as it is unexpected.

…you can say that again!  The ending is COMPLETELY unexpected especially considering how the odds were stacked against…not to mention how impossible it is that…well, okay, if I finish those thoughts, I’ll ruin the story!  Let’s just say the ending is going to catch you by surprise, make you pause for a moment or two, laugh out loud but then hopefully join the jolly crew of fans satisfied from the read.  (Like moi!)  But the ending is the ending, let’s get back to the beginning…

Author Nancy Holder

So, we have a varied cast of characters that through changing viewpoints we get to keep tabs on throughout the series.  This book carries on that tradition even with the additional ones we’ve seen both come AND go, with remarkable success; KUDOS to both of the authors on that!  It’s hard balancing a multi-viewpoint novel when it’s two or three people, let alone six plus on the side of good AND three or more on the side of evil…but balance they did allowing readers to capture a well rounded view of all parties involved.  You’ll root for your favorites and jeer those that need jeering right up to the final battle scenes.  Speaking of favorites…

Yours are bound to change throughout the course of the story, even MULTIPLE TIMES when you consider the series as a whole…and that’s okay!  It’s normal.  You don’t have to feel like a traitor.  I know I didn’t.  Let’s catch up on where we’re at and with whom in this installment.  First, we have Jenn; leader of the Salamancan hunters (FINALLY) reeling from the betrayal by her father, the loss and turning of her sister, the reappearance of the “BAD bad boy” side of Antonio (fighting partner and love interest) and the reality that all things are starting to come to a head…for better or worse.  Things are looking pretty dire and yet she manages to find the strength to carry on and continue fighting (you go girl!) but she’s not out of the woods just yet.  She has trust issues now and a darkness settling on her soul.  If she (or her team for that matter) is to be successful in her mission, the bonds of these two will have to be broken one way or the other. 

Next we have Antonio; devilishly good looks (*swoon*) and the ability to never age a day (vampire…yup…only he can touch crosses and is studying to be a priest, go figure!) only get you so far….especially when those you ran with formerly (Aurora and crew) are pure evil and out to exact their revenge on you for anything and everything, not to mention you’ve set your eyes on a Higher Power and yet your heart still belongs to Jenn.  Yeah...troubled roads ahead for you buddy, and that’s not even taking into account the torture you’re about to endure AND inflict; messy situation indeed.  Then there is Skye; a witch able to harness the powers of the goddess and Mother Earth (and kick some major butt!) but with a past that would shake you to your core hot on her heels.  You see, once upon a time there was a dashingly handsome warlock that captured her heart….and then ensnared her mind while tricking her into pledging allegiance to the dark side (not Vader, dark MAGIC). Thank goodness she woke up in time…but he’ll never forget her betrayal or the hurt she inflicted upon him and if he can’t have her, NO ONE will.  (Hey, Estefan!  There’s a soap opera guy that I think you might get along with quit nicely…name is Stefano; look him up!)  This is of course the method behind the madness in which we first encounter Skye in this novel, in the clutches of Estefan; but don’t worry readers, she’s a force to be reckoned with even when in a weakened state. 

Author Debbie Viguie

Next up, Jamie; the Irish brogue that wants to be the leader so bad he can taste it but is held back by his hot temper.  Surely a solo mission should suit him well, right?  Umm, sorta.  He’s entrusted to find and save Skye….if indeed she needs it when he finds her (dun dun dunnnn)…as well as gather forces both magical and otherwise for the battle to come.  Now if he can only play nice and make friends...*sigh*….but that is why we love him anyhow and his “conclusion” is definitely worth seeing.  (No spoilers!) Now we’re going paranormal again and taking a look at Holgar; werewolf and Salamancan hunter, now there’s a combination!  His protective nature gets him in trouble a time or two as does his heart (aww…) but he is determined to be there for his team anyway he can, even if it is to his detriment.

Rounding out the team, we have Father Juan; a mystery in and of himself.  Who is REALLY is has always been hinted at but never truly confirmed….until now…and the reality of such as well as the sacrifice he is about to make casts a shadow of sadness on things, but fear not for he does these things with full knowledge and a happy heart, something we can hopefully all say on our final day.  (Oops!  Semi-spoiler…but only just.  ^_^)  He’s there to guide the team the best way he knows how and while he’s not your average priest, since he casts runes as well as rosary beads, he has their best interests and the best interests of the world at heart.  I say the world because he doesn’t hold the nature of the “beasts” against them, rather he looks for the good and if recognizable by both viewer and viewee, he’ll take the plunge to try to bring it back to life; if not, good riddance.  Gotta love the no nonsense nature there…. ^_^

Now we have…oh wait, you thought I was done?  Yes and no.  I could go on and on and on.  For example, I could tell you how Noah’s past comes to light and Heather is found…sorta.  I could mention how AWESOME Jenn’s Grandmother REALLY is and how still waters really so run deep.  I could say that there is a party to die for with attire fit for queens…that none of the attendees can see on their own persons.  I could even say that Lucifer himself is in attendance when things REALLY go down…though not who you’re thinking of exactly.  But you see fair readers…I won’t.  I won’t because it would make the post unnecessarily long and because it would spoil some of the curiosities yet to be uncovered in this book.  I won’t because I want you to see it with fresh eyes, untainted by my full fledged observations and share with others (me included!) your experience.  I won’t because it’s simply more FUN this way…hehe.

So, in conclusion, a thrilling end to what has turned out to be a fabulous series.  You’ve got action, romance, danger, magic, and all the quiet moments that filter in-between coupled with a cast that you won’t soon forget and a story that will keep you hanging on its every breath…I’d say that’s a win!  Recommended for mid teen through adult readers for content and concepts explored.  If you’re looking for an exhilarating ride from start to finish, this should definitely be on your wish list.

Review copy received courtesy of author’s Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie, publisher Simon & Schuster and the fabulous that is the Ms. Holder’s assistance, Erin!  (THANKS everyone!)  For more information about this title as well as a look at the publisher’s complete catalog, feel free to visit them online, like them on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter.  Feel like adventuring into the world of Nancy Holder?  You’re in luck!  Check out her official website, one of her MANY Facebook pages (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) and of course, her Twitter feed!  Let us not forget author Debbie Viguie who is also reachable online at her site, on Facebook and the illustrious Twitter.

Until next time…have a fantastic weekend…and happy reading!

A BLOG TOUR to Howl About: Welcome Back to WOLF SPRINGS...

Why hello there readers!

Welcome back to another day another post here at the place to satisfy your bookish desires….Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. Today we have part two of the tour to howl about featuring that Young Adult literature writing author duo, Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie! They know their stuff and if you don’t believe me, you can check out their guest post seen here last week that explains how that capture that YA magic we know and love. Speaking of which, today’s post is my review of their latest release and trust me when I say, you don’t want to miss it. Without further adieu, today’s book of choice and blog tour guest is….

Wolf Springs Chronicles, Book 1:

Unleashed

By

Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

From the author's site....

Katelyn McBride’s life changed in an instant when her mother died. Uprooted from her California home, Katelyn was shipped to the middle of nowhere, Arkansas, to her only living relative, her grandfather. And now she has to start over in Wolf Springs, a tiny village in the Ozark Mountains. Like any small town, Wolf Springs has secrets. But the secrets hidden here are more sinister than Katelyn could ever imagine. It’s a town with a history that reaches back centuries, spans continents, and conceals terrifying truths. And Katelyn McBride is about to change everything.



Broken families, ageless grudges, forced alliances, and love that blooms in the darkest night—welcome to Wolf Springs.

There’s something that I noticed whilst reading this one and I think I knew it for quite a while, but it just came to the forefront of my mind this time around. One of the things unique about their writing is how the story is carried. The majority of it is held firmly aloft by the actual dialogue in the story. Now that may not seem like a truly surprising feat, but really….think about it. In today’s Young Adult genre, things generally go one of two ways; either the author creates a world so fantastical it’s hard to believe, or they step into a future version of our own world with realistic enhancements. These authors stay firmly planted in the present and let the story build out of the characters alone….with much success. After all, there’s no need for extensive world building when you have all you need right here and let’s not forget that it makes it all the more real when you can identify with what the characters are seeing, going through, or where they’re at. Anywho, I believe I made my point…moving on….

Characters! Oh those crazy beautiful character…no really! Most are pretty faces, but there’s a lot more there too. Let’s see, hottie number 1: Trick; the Romanian-esque speaking, cowboy boot wearing, smoking in a oh-my-let-me-just-gaze-at-you-a-minute-longer sorta way. He’s definitely hiding something which is a no-no if you’re going to get anywhere with the girl of interest, but despite the reputation he has, acts the gentleman…for the most part (hey, even Prince Charming was a jerk sometimes I’m sure). Hottie number 2: Justin; the equally sculpted, relative of her newbie best friend Cordelia, with eyes that could penetrate your soul, and enough magnetism to draw the Earth’s core. He’s got that bad boy thing going for him and is hiding something just as much as the other “man” in question….but with heat like that, he’s hard to resist despite any wrong doings. Ah yes, so many guys…so big a decision to make….which leads me to our main character, Katelyn.

Katelyn has been through heck and high water with losing her Dad a while back and now, the death of her Mom. Now, let’s say we ship her off to Arkansas away from everything else she knew and loved to live with a Grandfather she’s barely ever seen and expect her to be peachy-keen. Umm, yeah….not so much. She DOES her best considering the circumstances…..she even comes to like her knew home to a certain degree, if only she could stop being attacked by woodland creatures, and gain a little freedom because really does she need to be home before dark EVERY night? Let’s just say that her Grandfather has good reasons for what he asks (though I’m curious if he will ever verbatim say why)…reasons she finds out in good time on her own and through means she’ll possibly live to forget (not possibly forget….possibly live as in may not…you’ll have to read it to find out). Thankfully she has her new bestie Cordelia to help her out, right? Not exactly. It seems she’s hiding things too and they aren’t exactly what you might think either.

Now as mentioned with the two hotties previously, there is obviously a romance angle to the story. The best way I can describe it without giving too much away is this….it totally fit the song “Love Me, Love Me” by Big Time Rush (whose recent CD happens to be in my car…I totally blame my coworker for introducing me to it). There’s energy, indecision, desire and passion all palpable straight off the page…and yet still demure enough to be a teen friendly read, albeit mid to older teens and beyond. *le sigh*

In short, there are many hidden truths to uncover in the small town of Wolf Springs. Some you may anticipate, some you may guess….others will take you by surprise as they turn up the heat but rest assured, this series is getting off on the right foot and I for one CAN’T WAIT to see what happens next. So much to learn still and so many decisions to be made.

Special thanks to Lauren at Random House Children’s Books for the review copy and the chance to participate in this tour. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as their complete catalog, feel free to visit them online, or follow along on Twitter. For more information on the blog tour, be sure to check out the author’s sites (1 and 2) and of course, follow them on Twitter (1 and 2). They truly rock and are so considerate of their readers, you won’t be sorry.

Until next time…happy reading!

A BLOG TOUR to Howl About: Wolf Springs Chronicles: Unleashed

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers....the place to be when the only thing to satisfy your hunger is a great read.  Speaking of great reads which inevitably are written by great authors, today's post should be doubly satisfying.  Why?  Well, if you must ask, for the simple fact that we are hosting a blog tour courtesy of Lauren at Random House Children's Books (THANKS!) for that infamous Young Adult genre writing duo ... Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie! 

That's right.  The ladies with magical pens and oh-so-much-to-say are back and celebrating their latest release....Wolf Springs Chronicles:  Unleashed. Sounds good, right?  I think so....and based on what I've read so far, I stand by my first assessment.  Anywho, today is the first of two stop overs that they have granted me during this tour.  Next week, you'll get to read all about my adventure between the pages, but today....today is something else altogether. 

Today, I am featuring a guest post from these fine ladies and as I trust their judgement in creating something unique just for you, I gave them free reign to choose a topic of their liking.  The results?  A brief but wonderful post all about how they manage to capture the magic of youth in their writing despite the passing years and the positive messages they aim to deliver with this latest publication.....who could ask for more?  So without further adieu, allow me to present the work of Ms. Nancy Holder and Ms. Debbie Viguie!  Take it away ladies.....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GUEST POST:

Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Authors of Wolf Springs Chronicles:  Unleashed...among other works....



Nancy Holder



A lot of people ask us how we write for teens and tell us we do a good job of capturing what it’s like to be a teen. It’s because neither of us has ever truly grown up. We love Disney, we love movies and books targeted at teens, and we are incredibly young at heart. Recently, when Debbie was spending time with a friend’s seven-year-old daughter, the little girl asked Debbie’s husband if Debbie was a kid or an adult because she couldn’t tell. This is one of the greatest compliments a writer of children or young adult fiction could ever receive.

Nancy has a teenage daughter who helps her stay current on all the trends and reminds her every day of her own experiences as a teen. Debbie mentally thinks of herself as a seventeen-year-old and is always somewhat surprised when people treat her like an adult. This ability to stay in touch with our youth with all of its passion, angst, optimism, and energy keep us young and writing books for people who are the age we feel.

Debbie Viguie

Of course, there are a ton of adults out there who can certainly relate to the young adult stories we write. Maybe that’s because no matter how old we get, we still want to feel the passion and innocence and believe in having endless possibilities before us, as we did in our youth. Or maybe it’s because young adult books are often frank and refreshingly honest about situations and people.

With Unleashed we hope that we can reach young adults and touch them and show them that no matter what they’re going through that: a) they are never truly alone, b) someone else always has it worse, and c) even in the darkest night there’s hope. And maybe that’s what it comes right down to, because for most young adult novels, and certainly the ones we write, no matter how desperate or hard or terrifying the situation the characters are going through, there’s always hope. And it is our desire that everyone, young or old, always continues to believe and to seek that hope, no matter how hard life gets.  
 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

Wow...sounds like me, if you minus out the daughter and the husband.  Yes, I too am proud to hang on to my childlike wonder and enthusiasm for reading.  It lends the mind the creativity it needs to really appreciate all the new worlds just waiting for you between the pages of your next read...and I can only imagine (as we can see from these two authors) the power it lends in the actual creation of such works.

 

 

 

This book is the first in a new YA series, so don't miss out on how it all begins.  Unleashed reached publication on November 22nd, 2011 from Random House Children's Books and should be readily available on a bookstore shelf near you.  For more information on this title as well as their full catalog, feel free to visit them online, or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more of this literary world, check out the official series site.  To see just what other worlds were created by both Ms. Holder and Ms. Viguie, feel free to search right here on Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers (as they've been guests previously and I've done a review or two), explore their websites (1, 2), or follow their Twitter feeds (1, 2).

 

Be sure to check out the rest of the tour as it winds its way through the blogosphere.  Yesterday, a mini-interview was hosted by The Compulsive Reader.  Next stop on the tour....Literary Escapism.  Also, if you happen to be in the San Diego, CA area...Ms. Holder will be appearing at the Mysterious Galaxy for a book signing!  More details can be found at the bottom of the tour page. 

 

 

Until next time...happy reading!

 

BLOG TOUR: Damned by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Hi there readers!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. Today we have a special treat for you as we welcome to fabulous YA authors who've recently celebrated the release of yet another book.  Yep....prolific they certainly are.  This book happens to be book 2 of a trilogy and has LOADS of action, story and danger.  Allow me to introduce today's blog guest and book of choice....

DAMNED

(Crusade, book 2)by
Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

For those who haven't read book 1 (CRUSADE), there may be a spoiler or two so feel free to seek thee out the first title (or grab a quick refreshed by searching my review of said book right here on my site)....but I'll try to keep them at a minimum.  Let's check in on the characters we've come to know, shall we?

Eriko, the Hunter and former leader of the Salamancan group, is dealing with the changes....though not in her position but rather physically and mentally due to the changes granted her by her role. Holgar, our resident good guy werewolf, is dealing with echoes of his past as he struggles to maintain the life and health of his fighting partner Skye. Speaking of Skye, this time around she's not simply the White Witch they defer to for power boosts, protective spells, and healing....she has some soul cleansing of her own to do and her past is about to be dragged out front and center.  Then there's Jamie the hot headed Irish man who harbors a strong hostility towards the Cursed Ones and werewolves alike making him totally focused in a fight but we're about to see a semi softer side of him...yep, that's right, he has a heart and it beats right now for a fellow fighter. (Oooh ...) Side stepping a bit to Antonio, a Cursed One yes but with his eyes on the cross (studying to be a priest as he was doing in life) and his heart with his fighting partner and new team leader, Jenn...his will may be strong be he's not invincible as we're about to find out.  Then there's Jenn. Formerly sweet and somewhat innocent, she's been betrayed by family, lost her sister (sorta) to the Cursed Ones and lost her heart to someone that loves her yes but can never truly be with her.  Oye...add to that the new role of leader to this motley crew and well, let's just say she has A LOT to deal with and it's about to increase ten fold. As Jamie would say...there's a blimey lot of trouble ahead. The battle for our lives, our souls continued as the Cursed Ones gather in strength and numbers but this group as well as a few others we'll meet along the way....never say die.

It's brash. It's action packed. It's a lot heavier than your typical YA paranormal novel not only with relationships and characters but with the dose of religion injected.  That's not to say it preaches Becquerel honestly it doesn't; rather it takes a more accepting few of many belief systems asking the reader to keep an open mind about them all as the story is woven.  Will some take issue with this aspect? Perhaps...but remember fair readers, this was a story created to entertain. Sure it might have some underlying messages of good will to all but what would truly be bad about a more cohesive society where we can live side by side and respect one another, you know?   Something to think about....

In conclusion, a series addition that lives up to the power held in book 1.  You'll grow to love the characters even more as you experience their pasts and follow along as their stories continue to unfold.  Recommended read for teens and older due to violent content...it's not extreme but better suited for that age group.  Be sure to check back in tomorrow as day two of the tour stop here at the site welcomes an interview with both authors that frankly....you won't want to miss.  Trust me...I've seen their answers...good stuff!

For more information on this book as well as their other works, be sure to check them out online or follow along on Twitter (1 or 2).  Special thanks to both authors as well as Erin, Ms. Holder's fabulous assistant, for both the review copy and the chance to bring their tour front and center.  Oh and if you're still reading this post at this point....tomorrow's stop may hold a little surprise too. ^_^

Until next time....happy reading!

Happy...everything!

...St. Patrick's Day!

Did you remember to wear GREEN today?
Sure hope so...if not, watch out for pinchers!



...but that's not all...






HAPPY BOOK BIRTHDAY to Nancy Holder!

Possessions:  The Screaming Season

...in stores now!

...and one more round of happiness to share...

 

It's time to announce a few winners!

Are you ready?

The winners of their very own copy of Possessions by Nancy Holder are...

 

#32 - Chelsea / Vampire Book Club

 

#7 - Kate / YzhaBella's BookShelf

*and the crowd erupts with enthusiastic cheers*

Congratulations!  

The winners have been contacted and since they opted to include their mailing information, I don't have to vaguely promise to draw another name if I don't get a response; it's a done deal.  Special thanks to Erin, Nancy's uber fabulous assistant and author Nancy Holder, YA author extraordinare, for the chance to share this title with you, my readers...and the chance to host this giveaway.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this book as well as her complete body of works, be sure to visit her website and follow along on Twitter! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now if you didn't win this time, no worries...there will be other contests up and running very soon.  Just remember, you can't win if you don't enter ...so stay tuned.

 

Until next time...happy reading!

 

 

 

Possessions: The Screaming Season by Nancy Holder

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today is off to a strange and startling start indeed what with the earthquake in Japan and the tsunami warnings cropping up left and right.  Let’s take a moment to remember everyone that is being affected by this natural disaster and hope that the after effects are as minimal as possible.  If you are looking to help, there are a number of organizations stepping forward to start the relief efforts so just check around on Google or search through the Twitter feeds and you’re sure to find something that will suit your desires.  Pushing forward…

Today’s post is going live a bit late.  Why?  Oh well…pretty much life, if I had to put a find point on it.  As much as I love my blog and all of my fellow readers, time is not always in abundance for me to get things squared away.  I’ve learned to deal with it…chin up, move on, and all that jazz…but sometimes you can’t help but feel like screaming at the world “…just let me be so I can read and share”…ya know?  Speaking of screaming…

Today’s featured title is all about those crazy loud outbursts that happen from joy, from pain…and from fright…screaming.  This one landing squaring on the shoulders of “fright” definitely packs a punch.  It being the third and final book in the Possessions series (perhaps you’ve heard of it? ^_^), you definitely want to have read the prior two before diving into this one….and it just so happens I reviewed these titles previously.  For a quick catch up (mostly spoiler free), my reviews for book one and book two (and an interview that the author was so kind to give).  *whistles and waits while you get up to speed*  Ready?  Yay!  So let’s get on with this review, shall we?  Today’s book of choice is…

Possessions:

The Screaming Season

by

Nancy Holder

Lindsay Cavanaugh has a lot more emotional baggage than most teenagers.  There’s HER school work, boy trouble, mother’s death, mental breakdown (need I continue?)…and then there’s CELIA’S trouble past, horrific death, and vengeful desires.  You see, Lindsay is possessed all thanks to a little snotty rich girl named Mandy.  Campus prima donna and bitc…witchy wonder, she gets what she wants, when she wants it…usually.  This year, things are changing.  The spirits that possess the girls of Marlwood seem to be losing their grip on their hosts…with frightening consequences.  For every moment they are free of these entities, there are two fold as many that leave them lost, confused, and at times, unable to control their own bodies…and what they do.  This high stakes game is about to come to a less than quiet end.  Who will win is anyone’s guess…just remember, winner takes all.

First off let me say, this is definitely one that you need to read the prior books before delving into…trust me.  In fact, once they are all out (as this one releases next week), I’d recommend reading them one right after another.  There is a certain mindset you need to be in, in order to fully understand and follow what’s happening.  It’s not that it’s unclear, it’s more that because of the circumstances presented, both the storyline and dialogue bounce around between the possessed and the possessor which can leave you feeling a bit muddled if you’re not mentally prepared.  Reading book one and then two ….you’re already “in the zone”…know what I mean?  Anywho...

I love the unexpected turns the characters take in this book.  Just when you thought you had everyone figured out…BOOM….something else happens that makes you wonder if you were coming or going.  Those that seemed crazy may not really be and those that inspire trust…well, we all know about the quiet ones (oh wait…that would include me then…ummm….O_O).  Lindsay finds her inner strength.  Mandy shows her sweeter side…who even knew she HAD one.  Miles unearths a shred of decency that on him is rather off-putting and shudder-worthy (and yet still swoon-worthy at times).  In a nutshell, a mixed bag to say the least.

Story wise, we are greeted by a blast from the past in many ways; revisiting (mentally) the time before and after Lindsay’s mother passed away, dealing with the fallout of the events that followed, and tackling the feelings hidden beneath her hardened exterior that made her a beacon for Celia when seeking a “host”.  The flashbacks from Celia also take on a life of their own forming into something more tangible than shadows and mist…though I’d watch out for that mist (I’m just sayin’…); something that true nightmares are made of. 

In the end, the conclusion is satisfying and yet still leaves you something to ponder.  Is “a-character-whose-name-will-be-revealed” behind the final flowery finding or is it something more sinister?  It lets your imagination run wild (and work overtime) with possibility, a nice touch indeed.  It’s a great YA story with a strong paranormal cast that is sure to get your ghost…so to speak.  The message is one about facing your past, not being afraid of your feelings and finding the strength to discover who you really are.  Is it “scare your socks off” scary?  Not to me, but readers reactions do tend to vary.  It DOES however have a fabulous creepiness to it that doesn’t let go…even after the final page.  Careful you don’t walk away from this story with more than you bargained…. (muwhahahaha!)

Recommended reading for YA fans of the middle to teen and beyond age range.  This book is set to release this month from Razorbill Books, so be on the lookout on a bookshelf near you.  Review copy courtesy of author Nancy Holder and Erin, her assistant.  (THANKS!)  For more information about the author and her extensive body of work, visit her website, or follow along on Twitter. 

Now someone will be screaming with joy come next Thursday (03/17/11).  Why?  *gasp*  You don’t know?  That’s the day that this title is celebrating its book birthday!  *grabs party hat and confetti*  Its ALSO the day that we find out who will be enjoying this series from where it all began….book one.  Oh…didn’t I mention?  It’s CONTEST TIME!  Okay, so I know I didn’t mention it…was just curious to see how many would read the post without the initial announcement of a contest.  If you’re reading this, you passed!  *claps madly in your honor*  Anywho…back to “CONTEST TIME”!

------------------------------------------------

That’s right!  Thanks to this incredible author and friend to book bloggers round the world as well as her fabulous assistant, I have the pleasure of offering you not ONE but TWO copies of the first book in the series.  Here’s the scoop!

The prize…

1 of 2 copies of Possessions by Nancy Holder

How to enter…

Just fill out THE FORM.

The rules…

 *Open to US/Canada mailing addresses only!  No P. O. Boxes please.

Until next time…good luck everyone…and happy reading!

* Entries will be accepted from Friday, March 11th, 2011 through Wednesday, March 16th, 2011 at midnight CST.  The entries will be tallied and entered into the random.org randomizer, after which a random number will be picked by their number generator.  (This way all the entries are mixed up nicely.)

* All entries must be submitted using the form accessible through this post.  You MUST include your email address in order to be counted as well as contacted should you be chosen as the winner!

*The winner will be announced and contacted via email Thursday, March 17th, 2011 and will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.  Should they fail to respond in the given time frame, a new winner will be chosen.  If you choose to include your full name and mailing address in your contest entry, no worries....the time frame issue is erased.

*Winner's name and address will be forwarded to Erin for prize send out only and then discarded.

Crusade by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Hello, hello!

It's Friday and you know what that means....it's almost Halloween!  That's right...only one more full day until the official trick-or-treating holiday though as I understand it a lot of towns and cities have voted to celebrate it on Saturday this year..oh well, to each their own.  Anywho...speaking of Halloween....have you entered the 'Spooktacular Finds In Reading' contests as of yet?  If so, YAY!  Thank you thank you and good luck!  If not....um, why?  I mean if you don't like a chance to win one of several fabulous prize packs I totally understand, but otherwise yeah, you can't win if you don't enter so take a chance!  You never know, it could be YOU winning big next week.  Entries accepted through midnight CST 10/30/10 so be sure to get yours in before it's too late.  Just check the right hand sidebar under 'Current Contests' for all the links.  Speaking of the contests... 

Today's post is all about one of the titles that you have a chance to win!  I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing a few of this author's previous works and have yet to be disappointed so when I had the chance to read the latest release, I was there with bells on.  (Okay so no bells....too noisy, but you get the point...)  A familiar name in the YA genre all on its own, this author teamed up with a fellow writer that they've worked on a series previously and created a new literary adventure to entice and enchant.  Without further adieu, today's book of choice is....

Crusade

by

Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Vampires, and werewolves, and witches, and....OH MY! Paranormal creatures abound in the latest release from this marvelous writing duo and what's more...they're at war. Okay, so that in a general sense isn't that unexpected since they don't usually play nicely together, but the level to which it has reached truly is. The vampires are out of the coffin so to speak and ready to stand and be counted.  Making nice with the President of the US of A on national television ought to help their peace loving cause, no?  Um...no.  It would have, except not long after the smiling scene watched round the world, the President's daughter is kidnapped, turned into a fanged wonder and makes her first and last television debut decimating the military forces sent to rescue her before being staked.  How's THAT for keeping the peace? 

Nations are falling to the power of the Cursed Ones, one by one some supporting their cause while others simply fear it.  There are only a few that stand in the way of their world domination plans....the Resistance and the Salamancans. The first is a band of humans unwilling to lie down and become lambs for the slaughter; the second, highly trained teens ready to kick some paranormal behind....that is if they can keep their differences out of the way.  Who will win in this ultimate power struggle especially when family and friends are involved? Only time will tell...and that is only one of many things that isn't on their sides....

Wow...what can I say? This is a pretty hefty choice for a YA novel, sitting at 470 pages, but a great start to a new series. We've got paranormal creatures aplenty, a storyline steeped in many levels of mystery, and hidden pasts just waiting to be discovered.  Each chapter begins with either an excerpt from Jenn's journal (our primary lead character, more about her later), a brief glimpse at a passage from the Salamancan Hunter's manual (think of it as "how to dispatch vampires 101"), or a work of poetry from the Cursed Ones themselves that moves progressively from neutral to total domination.  The character assortment that is worked into not just the storyline but the hunter group itself is amazing.  How they manage to coexist without killing each other is beyond me, and yet it works.  As you learn more about each character it becomes clear why hostilities run deep and yet since this is the beginning of a series not the end of one, it sort of comes to a head at the end leaving you asking...and then what happens?!  I do have a prediction about one plot twist that is just screaming to come into existence, but alas, I shall leave it faceless and nameless for now....at least until the next book comes around and I can confirm my suspicions. 

Now we already mentioned that vampires are highly featured in the novel and with their inclusion comes a few twists on the classic myths commonly accepted about our fanged literary friends.  This time around we keep the classic no sunlight allowed bit with some vampires (well, one that we know of) being able to tolerate the site of a cross (even holy water if you can believe it), but gone is the acceptance of animal blood as a food replacement.  Nope.  There are no "vegetarian vampires" in this one (Twilight reference...though if you didn't recognize it, it probably still doesn't make much sense) just pure blood thirsty creatures of the night needing human blood to sustain their existence.  Surprising in some ways, but not overly so...a good balance in the end without drawing readers attentions away from what's happening to dwell over the details.

With all that is good must come a bit of the not so good...sad, I know, but true.  There are spots in which the story seemed to drag, especially after the group makes their way to New Orleans.  (Why are they there?  Nope....not telling, sorry!) There's a lot of waiting (or so much waiting) and hoping (when all seems lost what else have you got) and rituals (yeah, now this one is a doozy) but not a whole lot of action in any other form.  During the dry spells, the narrator of the story is shifted to help you learn a bit more about the lead characters and what motivated them to step into the roles they have today...with the number sharing the spotlight it's certainly needed (there are five at bare minimum but others step in and out as well).  Rest assured though, those few instances are bringing you towards a greater end and will help you form a more complete understanding of each character. 

This is a definite reading recommendation for YA readers of all ages, in my opinion. The only "questionable" aspects are rather PG (think along the lines of "Twilight" in regards to violence and romance) so anyone who enjoys the YA genre with paranormal twists should be readily entertained by this one.  The follow up book to this recent release is titles Converted and appears to be scheduled for release in 2011.  Will I be on the look out for it?  You bet!  I simply have to see if what I think might happen happens...and what becomes of the cause...and what about...okay, so short answer is yes, I'll certainly be on the lookout for it.

ARC for review courtesy of author Nancy Holder and Simon & Schuster.  (THANKS!)  To find out more about this title and her other works in progress, check out her website or follow along on Twitter!  (Be sure to say hi to her Corgi's too....definitely two cuties.)  To discover the other bookish wonders available from the publisher, visit their site or check out their Twitter page.

Until next time...happy reading!

WINNER: Nancy Holder 'Possessions' CONTEST!

Hi there!

Yes, that's right...the second post of the day, but really, this one couldn't wait.

Today is the day we announce the winner of the Nancy Holder Possessions contest, here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers!  Yep, the entries have been tallied, 48 individual (though technically only 47 counted, as one was submitted AFTER the deadline...tisk tisk...) plus loads of bonus entries....random.org has done their thing and we have a winner!  The lucky reader on their way to getting a copy of Possessions and Possession 2:  The Evil Within for their very own reading pleasure is...

#7 - Christinabean

Congratulations!  You now have 48 hours to respond to the email I sent you to claim your prize.  If a response is not received in the allotted time frame, I'll have to draw another winner, a task I certainly won't enjoy, but will dutifully do so for my readers.

Special thanks to author Nancy Holder for the opportunity to read and review this great series, the fabulous interview, and the chance to host this amazing giveaway for readers far and wide.  For more information on this great author and her many publications, check out her site or follow along on Twitter!

For those of you still in the "I-want-to-win-a-great-book" mood, there is still another open contest on the site right now (and more to come) so be sure to check it out!

 

 

 

 

Until next time....happy reading!

 

 

 

 

 

REMINDER: Nancy Holder Contest Ending!

 

Just a quick reminder....

...a contest at SFIR is ending tonight at midnight CST!

Enter now for your chance to win your very own copy of ....

 

 

(1) SIGNED copy of Possessions

(1) copy of Possessions 2:  The Evil Within

Entries accepted through midnight CST tonight!

Remember this is open to INTERNATIONAL readers as well!

For more details, just check out the CURRENT CONTEST listing on the right hand sidebar!

Good luck to everyone!

Until next time....happy reading!