Thursday, January 30, 2014

Almost Always by Bobbi Reed

Hi there!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…where the reading schedule is set long before the month due ever rolls around, but you can always count on the material being fresh.

Today’s featured title is one that I had wanted to feature last month as it has a few wintery themes running about, plus the curious little cover of gingerbread wonder, but alas time got away from me, among other things.  Those other things were more along the lines of my concentration..and unfortunately, interest.  *le sigh*  Yep.  For those readers out there that blog themselves, you know where this is going; for those that don’t, hang tight my friends…we’ll make it through this bumpy ride together.  Whether your halls are still decked or not, it’s time to great today’s book of choice…


By
Bobbi Reed

About the book
Here’s the way Eva sees it:  if John is so concerned about her butting into strangers’ lives, he shouldn’t leave her sitting at a table in Bob Evans with nothing to occupy her time…

Enter Cecelia – a pregnant teenager who needs a family for her baby.  Fate has placed her at a table behind Eva and John.  Now Eva has a chance – a chance to give her daughter, Shelly, the one thing Shelly desperately wants.  But nothing is ever as easy as it seems.  Because sometimes daughters are not born to us – they are gifted by desperate teenagers – seated behind us at Bob Evans…




I select my review books carefully, gauging my acceptance or gracious decline by my interest in the book.  The questions I ask myself run the gambit of what does it sound likedo I have  vested interest in the characters or situationdo I feel a desire to know more, and many other choice phrases of pondering.  If initially unclear or if I’m teetering on that little ledge of uncertainty, I look closer at the cover, explore the links provided by the “pitcher” to this “pitchee”, even read the excerpts that were included or are accessible online.  In other words, I do my own version of due diligence because let’s face it, it’s not helping anyone if I accept a title for review that I have absolutely no interest in (not every book is for every reader).  This pans out…to steal a line or rather the title from this book, almost always.  However, there are some instances where my initial impressions don’t hold water fully.  Sadly, such is the case here.

Eva’s intentions were noble, I’ll give her that but the extent to which she carried them with a blind eye to what was really happening, was hard to take.  I think for her it was a case of wishful thinking and maybe a mother’s love, getting in the way of what was right in front of her.  Her easy acceptance of Cecelia’s situation showed she has a big heart, and yet at the same time, she couldn’t extend that heart fully to her own husband’s idiosyncrasies.  I mean, I get it.  In Eva’s mind, John’s former profession was much more ‘manly’, something to talk about and be proud of.  His new pastime in his retirement is a bit more on the frilly side of things, but you know what?  It’s not hurting anyone.  He’s not changed as a person.  He merely wants to put his mind to work on something crafty while still providing aesthetic beauty to his surroundings.  If she can accept a teen’s pregnancy, be open to working on her relationship with her own daughter, and handle the less-than-always-there neighbor, she should be able to handle a bit of confectionery sugar and dried apple witch’s.  Just my opinion…..anywho…

Aside from those in both starring and bit roles, the story itself was….how to put it….just too drawn out.  I think the author was trying to show all the facets of Eva’s life, all the balls she was constantly trying to juggle, but in the end, it proved too much for not only her but readers, well…this reader anyway.  The writing itself was nice enough, and the story certainly filled with messages of acceptance, honesty and a caution against meddling, but I do believe they get lost a bit along the way. 

In the end, it just wasn’t a good fit for my own reading tastes.  The story took too long to develop.  The tale was heartfelt with good intentions but I never could fully connect with the characters; I cared about them, but only just.  Unfortunately, it made for a longer than usual read but I’m not sorry I persevered.  About 2/3 of the way in, we finally unearthed the feelings behind some of the actions seen and by book’s end, we’ve not only welcomed a new life into this fictional world, but seen many people grow beyond their previous selves; something we could only hope to see occur in our own lifetime.  So, although it wasn’t for me, perhaps it is for you!  If you’re looking for a read to while away your time in the “snow-pocalypse”, have run across similar times in your own life where empathy might play a common denominator, or can appreciate when good intentions mixed with a bit of heavy handed butting in go…well, not exactly your way, this may be the read for you.

Review copy received courtesy of author Bobbi Reed and Rebecca at Page Spring Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their full catalog, be sure to stop by their official site.  This title is available now via Cup of Tea Books, an imprint of Page Spring Publishing, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time…happy reading!



Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Anatomy 101 with author Daria Snadowsky

Hi there!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…the site that loves to read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read, read….and read some more….all the live long day.  Too bad I’ve got to keep my day (and night) job though because honestly, imagine the reading time!

Today, we’re heading back to the land of Young Adult literature with a dual book review of what I can only call an “edgy” series.  Why that particular adjective?  Well, it’s a content thing…you’ll see, but before we dissect things too closely, let’s meet and greet these titles properly.  Since the beginning is usually the best place to start in any situation, let’s jump right into the first story…


9780440239444

Okay, okay.  I know what you’re thinking.  How could I have POSSIBLY even thought this series would be anything other than edgy with a Barbie-Man doll on the front cover with only a title sticker strategically placed to cover, well…I’m pleading the fifth on that one.  No, really…the description of the book drew me in.  It sounded like a fun YA romp through a teenage “wonderland” and it was…just a LOT more sexually oriented than I imagined.  I’m not saying it was bad.  I’m not saying it was over the top.  I AM saying that I would recommend it be read by the elder teens in the target YA audience as opposed to those just claiming the teen moniker as their own as it’s a bit explicit.   

Meet Dom (short for Dominique).  She’s a high school student ready to shed her skin and experience all that being a teen has to offer.  Some are on the straight and narrow, like expanding her circle of friends, going to a party or two, and maybe breaking a curfew by a few minutes tops.  Others are a bit more in the shades of grey area, like meeting boys, dating boys, and well, I think you see where my train of thought may be leading here.  *ahem*  Not judging any of those that test their limits at that age, just saying…be careful, be safe.  Anyway…

Our girl Dom doesn’t go all “red light special” on us or anything, but she does try to catch up to the status quo, even perhaps surpassing it in some cases.  It was interesting to read as she and her chosen mark of affection, Wes, experienced many firsts and attempts at firsts.  Honestly, the outcome here was not fun for all and yet expected to some degree if you paid attention to the situation at hand, though I could have sworn it was heading in another direction.  Something along the lines of closets being opened and all (hey, it could still happen…book two doesn’t really cement anything for us)…but I digress.

By this story’s end, Dom has learned a lot from personal experience as well as her friend Amy (more on her in book two) and is ready to cut ties and head off to the BIG HOUSE…as in college (where did YOU think I meant?).  Which is just where we’re heading as well…




9780385737982

TADA!  We’ve landed in college.  The land where futures grow on trees and success is there for the taking…right?  Umm…right, sure.  *ahem*  Truth be told, things aren’t that hot for our leading lady, but she’s got her head on straight and is determined to take the academic world by storm…or at least get her studies back together again; she was an A+ student after all….anything less, hurts!  She’s also not letting her head be turned by any handsome faces this year.  Enough is enough.  Time to work on herself, get ahead, and allow her newly claimed good name to carry her to the heights of the medical elite. 

Only, it’s college…and it’s about to be summer.  Does anyone else remember the Legally Blonde Musical where Elle Woods is studying through Spring Break (etc) to get her 174 LSAT score and the cute guys keep barging in to distract her?  (Not that I remember it…at all….WHAT?! No judging….)  Yeah, well that’s sorta what’s in store for Dom and while she manages to keep her head around Calvin (the RA that wants to be more than friends), Guy is not as easy to ignore.  What kind of name is Guy exactly?  A perfect one for this dude in fact.  He seems nice enough, sensitive enough, smart enough…and yet the boy is a commitment phobe (okay, not exactly….he just doesn’t want to be tied down in a relationship at the moment), much like his name.  Sorry!  I know, I’m harsh….but I’m split on my decision to totally side with Dom’s initial reactions or adopt that “live in the moment” philosophy.  Whichever way you vote, it’s still fun to follow Dom along as she finds herself in more ways than one.  *ahem*

Now, even though Dom is the one we’ve spoken of most often here, I also have to give props to her BFF Amy.  True, they grow apart a bit in this story.  True, Amy discovers both the joys and sorrows that come along with being attached.  True, we get to know her a bit better, or rather another side of her, and can’t help but like her all the more for it.  She’s not merely a flavor of the day sorta girl anymore; she’s developed substance.  I like how it wasn’t instantaneous nor was it completely expected of this character but it felt real.  The author seems to have a knack for that.

When all the story is said and done, the drama played out, the challenges met, learned from and/or dealt with, things draw to a close with a brush from the past and a reconnection of hearts.  It wasn’t the ending I was hoping for (nor the one you might be assuming from what I just said…don’t assume, READ!), but you know what…it made sense.  It worked for the characters, both where they were at personally as well as their personalities.  It worked for the story, falling in line with everything that transpired as well as all that still could.  It worked for the author’s writing style, promising us a good read not necessarily the happiest of happy endings.


Author Daria Snadowsky
In conclusion, a two part series that takes the world of teens by the hormones, shakes things up a bit for the sake of first time experiments and leaves you with the results to measure and weigh in your own time.  With characters you grow to love and stories you’ll want to share in (as well as a few you’d wish to forget), you’re left with an overall feeling that despite what life looks like at the moment, things can still be changed for the better.  In short, it’s not a read for every one, but for those that are open to the option, it’s definitely one you’ll not want to miss.

Review copies received courtesy of author Daria Snadowsky.  (THANKS!)  For more information on these titles as well as her current goings ons, be sure to visit her online or stop by the publisher’s official page for the “anatomy” series.  These titles are both available now via Delacorte Press, a division of Random House, so be on the lookout for them on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time…happy reading!




Tuesday, January 28, 2014

BLOG TOUR: At the River's Edge by Mariah Stewart + CONTEST!

Hi there!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…the place to be when you’re in need of something new, something exciting, something you may not have picked up off the shelf otherwise; no worries, we’ve got you covered.

Speaking of “not picking up otherwise”, today’s blog tour guest (AND BOOK BIRTHDAY celebrant) definitely falls into that category…at least for this reader.  As many of you know, I’ve only more recently begun exploring the Romance genre.  Sounds corny or prude-ish, I know, but I’m not a fan of “too much” in a novel and the classic definition of a Romance novel to me, screams of this…not to mention the covers, the titles, etc.  How can I be blamed for my assumption…fully at least?  Am I right?  *waits for response*  Of course…and not just because it’s me either.  (^-^) Once again those who are frequent readers here will remember the appearance of some of my more recent dabbles here and there, as well as my surprise as to their actual content for both better and worse.  Today’s pick, definitely for the better!  Coming to us via TLC Book Tours, today’s blog tour guest and book of choice is…


By
9780345538420


Okay, so I was going to go with the usual “about the book”  section here, but realized after placing it just so, it told a wee tad more than I myself wanted to reveal.  Yep.  So, for today, we’ll go with a slightly more heavy air of mystery as we shine the light on this wonderful read…because it truly was wonderful.

Though classified as a Contemporary Romance, I wouldn’t be hard pressed to shelf it among the Women’s Fiction reads either.  How come?  I’ll tell you…..because though there is a personal relationship or two within the novel, that’s not what it’s solely about or even primarily.  What it’s really about it finding out balance in life.  Discovering the “we” that we are meant to be, rather than the version of us that is purely expected.  It’s great to fall into line with the family business, being a lawyer is certainly a respectable career, but if you’re afforded the chance to not only make a living but also BE HAPPY….who wouldn’t take that?  Thus we being our tale…

Sophie Enright, our leading lady, is thrown a massive curve ball in the shape of a two-timing boyfriend who, if truth be told, just isn’t cutting it as her forever option.  I know the opening scenes are not the best for the characters involved but wouldn’t you know it, they totally endeared them to my heart…well, at least her; him, not so much.  Her reaction was realistic but also hilarious and I loved how even in the heat of the moment, she couldn’t bring herself to harm an innocent book.  (Page 9…read it, you won’t be sorry!)  Despite it being a time she’d rather forget, we actually have this butt head former beau to thank because without his indiscretion, Sophie would not have been motivated to try something new. 

Now, her new personal challenge is not something the family is exactly behind as far as support; in their minds, lawyers breed lawyers and with her father having been such a disappointment, her success was the bright shiny penny in their loafers.  Her challenge, her commitment is not only to aiding her brother in unburying the family’s law firm from paperwork Hades, but to have her own restaurant.  Nothing fancy, just  a local joint that she could call her own and maybe the town would be inclined to as well.  Thing is about dreams, sometimes they come true with a little hard work and an awful lot of faith.  Will Sophie’s?  That’s not for me to say….but then again, that’s not the only thing she has worth fighting for.  Enter Jason Bowers….

He would be our leading man whether or not he became tangled up in Sophie’s story.  He has a tale all his own that I shan’t lay bear at the moment, but suffice it to say that the school of hard knocks gave him a great big WHACK on several occasions and yet…he’s still coming back for more.  He is a generous soul with a heart of gold even if he can be stubborn as a mule at times (he’s a guy…need I say more?).  With his local business keeping the community visually appealing, a gentle helping hand to lend to those in need, and a heart growing fonder of this small town with every passing day, it’s easy to see that Jason Bowers is a keeper…it doesn’t hurt that he’s easy on the eyes too.  (^_^)  Only problem?  Stubborn pride.  Who has to deal with it?  Well, himself of course…but also our leading lady.  That’s right!  It’s one of those occasions where love was the last thing on either of their minds and yet, here it is…live and in living color, if only they can hold on to it.  *le sigh*

Aside from the stories and characters already made note of above, there is a whole town of colorful folks just waiting to be discovered.  From the local business owners that while one might assume would be leery of possible competition moving in on their turf, are more than happy to lend a hand if the chance presents itself, to a family tree coming to life right before our eyes.  Sophie’s grandfather, Curtis, is a formidable man but with a tender heart that beats strong and true for who else…his family; that doesn’t only include blood relations either.  Violet, dear friend to Curtis but also his late wife Rose (two parts of the Blossoms as they called themselves in their youth) and a relation by association, is a permanent fixture around the Enright & Enright offices.  She knows who’s who, what’s what, and is ready to help in any capacity she is humanly capable of…we’ll leave the super human aspect to Rose who may have passed on physically but the lingering Gardenia scent around her home every now and then, begs otherwise.  I liked her attitude towards life and her spunk.  She struck me as a woman not to be ignored but not in the looming gloom and doom sense, just someone you’d rather have ON your side.  *ahem*  Then there’s Jesse and Brooke, her brother and his fiancĂ©, Logan, Jason’s nephew, Grace and….well, I think you get the picture.

Author Mariah Stewart
In short, a story that will touch both your mind and your heart, inviting you back for another visit as soon as the opportunity presents itself.  It tells of life, love, family, and all the heart we lose and gain along the way.  It’s a reminder that dreams can come true, but they often need a little help from us to be realized…and all the hard work put into it, makes it that much sweeter in the end.  Though several books into this particular series, it reads perfectly fine as a standalone…or as an introduction because the first six books are now on my “to read” list and book eight is coming soon according to the last pages of this one.  (YAY!) Recommended read for Contemporary Romance fans as well as those more into Women’s Fiction. 

Review copy received courtesy of Lisa at TLC Book Tours.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this tour as well as those forth coming, be sure to stop by the official site, like them on Facebook or catch up on Twitter.  This title is available now via Ballantine Books, a division of Random House, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.  Now for the piece de resistance….


....it's CONTEST TIME!



Thanks to the generosity of TLC Book Tours and Ballantine Books, YOU have the chance to win a copy of this title to call your own!  All you have to do is submit your information below and you’re in it to win it.  Entries accepted today through midnight CST, February 7th, 2014.  US entries only, no P.O. Boxes please.  Of course…if you’d like some EXTRA ENTRIES, you’ll be afforded the opportunity.  Just check out the form for all the details.




Until next time…GOOD LUCK…and happy reading!



Monday, January 27, 2014

The Scholar, the Sphinx and the Shades of Nyx by Alison Reeger Cook

Hi there!
Welcome back to the site that aims to please the reader in you every day of the week....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, I thought I'd kick off our week with a recent read from the Young Adult genre that's sure to garner your attention....if it hasn't already that is.  It's a relatively recent release from a first time author that we can expect to see more from in the future, especially as this is book one in a planned series, and I for one will certainly be on the lookout those future publications.  Ready to make the acquaintance of this possibly new-to-you author's work?  Let's!  Today's book of choice is....


The Scholar and the Sphinx, Book 1:
By
Alison Reeger Cook
9781908483874
Knox Robinson Publishing

About the book…
Cervera, Spain, 1852.  David Sandoval is a sixteen-year-old genius on many different subjects, yet he is more content studying than becoming close with family or friends.  He accepts an apprenticeship offer from a French architect, and while on his travels to Paris, a foolhardy decision on his part gets him abducted by a gypsy caravan owned by a living Grecian sphinx.  The sphinx, seemingly intrigued by the fearless young man, takes him through the Curtain, the gateway between our world and the worlds of the unseen, where many creatures of myth and legend reside.  When David attempts to escape back through the Curtain to the human world, he learns a dark secret:  a Shade, an extension of the shadowy Night Goddess Nyx, is slowly draining the sphinx of her most precious talents.  Can one normal boy truly undo the inflictions of a goddess, and rescue both the seen and unseen worlds from her dark intentions?



Sounds a bit heady, right?  Ah, but that’s where you’d be wrong and in assuming as much, might pass up the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of this curious new series.

First things first…wanna know how I found out about this book?  It wasn’t in the usual fashion; you know, strolling the aisles of a bookstore or getting a recommendation from a friend and/or fellow reader.  It was at my second job.  Many of you know, job two actually places me in the hallowed walls of our local big box store and being that it is connected to the other locations information wise, the intranet (as in the internal web system) is our source of “knowledge”.  One day, there happened to be what we call a “High Five” (sort of an electronic pat on the back for something well done, a KUDOS if you will) featuring a former employee that was making her writing debut and holding a book signing at the store she use to work at.  I thought…now that’s pretty cool!  Talk about full circle!  Little did I know that the very next day, I’d see an email from the same said featured author in my inbox with a review request.  (^_^)  Small world, no?  Needless to say I as already intrigued by what I had read so my response of “yes” was certainly without delay and so here we are, with me rambling away and still ready to share my thoughts on this read.  Yes, well I will get to the point now, but I thought it a mighty fine story to share first.  Anyway….

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it a thousand more times before my blog ever disappears into the ether, I’m not a big fan of highly fantastical reads; you know, the ones that require a working knowledge of everyone, everything and the world at large created solely by the author.  The kind they have classes at the college for because it is THAT involved.  Thought this might sound somewhat along those lines, it’s really not.  A working knowledge of a few basic myths and locales of the world, not to mention a love of reading (LOVE that she built that into the lead character!), will take you pretty darn far in this Young Adult fantasy series…and I’d venture in the future installments, it’ll probably still hold true. 

Story wise, it links multiple pasts with somewhat more present times, stepping back and forth between the worlds the Curtain affords us access to.  My favorite would have to be when he landed in Japan.  Not that I’ve held a long fascination with the culture or area, though I wouldn’t mind visiting someday, but the creatures and magical folk he encounters just stuck with me, especially Tanuki.  Anywho, back to that story….the way it’s told, we watch as young David over not too long a span grows into himself, discovering just the sort of “man” he really wants to be rather than the type simply pressed upon him.  The adventure that ensues due to the path he chooses is definitely out of a nightmare as opposed to a fairytale but it keeps us on our toes, wondering where the next turn leads to or the next puff of dragon breath will come from.  What?  Oh, I didn’t mention the dragons yet….no worries, you’ll meet them in due time.  By book’s end, you’ve grown fond of our young potential hero (hey, I won’t be the one to spoil the final outcome!  It’s a treacherous road ahead…ANYTHING can happen!) but you’ll be filled with wonder about the journey still to come and just whom shall make it with you.

Character wise, we’ve already met David and I’ve made a passing mention to Tanuki (the little guy can change shape into almost any critter he wants!).  The Sphinx is an obvious attention grabber as I don’t know a person whose fancy wouldn’t be nabbed by this creature of lore, especially this one as her tendencies don’t seem to play fair with all you might have heard…much to the surprise of our young friend.  Let us not forget about our human friends as well, though the main one of which I am referring is actually more than just your average human.  His name is Gullin and he’s not simply another gypsy from afar but a master huntsman, the gravity of which will be revealed along the course of the story.  He’s rough, he’s tumble, he’s downright unlikable at times, but in the end, he’ll win you over, or at least he did me.  

Then there’s Yofune who, well okay, I guess it IS a stretch to put him in the human category as he’s actually…well, something more…but he appears in this form for a good portion of the story so there he shall be cast.  Honestly?  He left me unsettled.  I couldn’t trust him as far as I could throw him and yet, I wanted to…trust him, that is.  Once his story is told, it’s understandable why my feelings split upon his introduction but I’ll let you discover that on your own.  I could continue with my assessment of Nyx or even Hypnos or well, the list goes on and on but then this review would be more of a guide to her world and didn’t we already discuss how that wasn’t needed nor that I like that sort of writing?  (^_^)

Author Alison Reeger Cook
In conclusion, a great new Young Adult series that will cater to fantasy fans as well as those simply seeking a bigger understanding of the world and the relationships that life presents us with.  Not everything is love or even like at first sight, but allowing time for the bigger picture to form  is what counts.  This book reminds us, or me at least, that first impressions are important but if you allow your opinion of things to be fully colored by what you already know or THINK you already know, you are sorely missing out.  Something to think about, indeed….and I DEFINITELY like when a book leaves me with a gem like that.


Review copy courtesy of author Alison Reeger Cook.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as the forth coming books in the series, be sure to seek her out online.  This title is available now via Knox Robinson Publishing, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time…happy reading!

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Recipe by Angela Petrella & Michaelanne Petrella

Hi guys!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…the place that aims to keep your taste buds on edge, for the next great read that is.

Today’s featured title fits in here at the site even more so than usual.  As you may have noticed, I keep a cooking theme for my blog, even though it’s centered on all things bookish.  Those of you that have been with me know its origins; for those that don’t, let’s just say it all started with a little word play.  Anywho…back to today’s title.  We find ourselves at home in the land of Children’s Picture Books but this time with a twist.  You see, there’s a bit of reader participation called for in this story not just on the journey through the pages, but in the kitchen.  Curious?  I fully understand your feelings and in an effort to help quench that desire to know more, I’m jumping right to the meat of this post.  Happy?  I thought you might be.  Today’s book of choice is…


By
Angela Petrella & Michaelanne Petrella
Art by
Erin Althea & Mike Bertino

As the title implies, this story is about a recipe; as you can probably ascertain from the images displayed, it features the work of a young chef so things may not turn out exactly as intended…or do they?

You see, this day is special as it belongs not to Mom, but to Kristen…as does the kitchen and dinner is on her; literally by the end of the story as well as figuratively.  *ahem*  Ever imagine giving free reign to the little ones in your life to create, let alone MAKE, a dinner of their choosing?  Yeah…if you have an active enough imagination, than I’m sure you’re probably picturing something along the lines of what occurs in this story.  Thing is, it may not come out as a dinner worthy of human consumption, she is a tiny child after all, but that doesn’t mean it has to go to waste.  Just as one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, one man’s non-edible food pile is another critters delectable feast…an added lesson you didn’t see coming but one certainly worth passing on to the next generation.

Seeing as how this is a picture book, it is certainly a good use of our time together to make mention of those.  The illustrations to me are a lot like the story…more concerned with portraying the feelings of freedom and childlike wonder than the actual details of each and every item.  That’s not a bad thing, it just makes it more free form in design and colorful overall.  Adding another dimension to the fun is the inclusion of a two-sided poster that when not in use otherwise, serves as the dust cover for the book.  Pretty nifty, right?
 
In conclusion, a book that reminds us it is indeed the thought that counts and just because the outcome is not what was initially intended, it doesn’t mean that it has lost all value.  Also, a fun way to introduce kiddos to the kitchen and jump start the imagination of adults stymied to answer that question heard round the world…what’s for dinner!  Review copy received courtesy of the great folks at McSweeney’s McMullens.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their growing catalog of bookish wonders for all ages, be sure to stop by their official site, or catch them over on Twitter.  This book was released October 2013, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time…happy reading!


Thursday, January 23, 2014

READ ALL ABOUT IT: Daughters of Lilith, Book 3: Sacrifice by Jennifer Quintenz

Hi guys!
Welcome back to the site that tries to stay ahead of the curve, reading wise at least, and in turn take you there as well....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.


With yesterday's double booked party of fun, I though today, we'd slow things down a bit...but only just.  What?  You KNOW I couldn't stay away completely and if you're anything like me, which I know you are, you can NOT resist a good sounding book let alone SERIES!  Now my own TBR Mountain is already creating its own range so alas, I couldn't add this one to my anytime soon list, but don't worry about me, I'll get there eventually.  Right now, I'm thinking about YOU.  Ready to add to your own list?  Oh come now, you KNOW you're gonna want to....
*smirk*

Ladies and gents, allow me to introduce you to a series you may or may not have heard of previously, but either way there is something to celebrate come the end of this month....


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


For fans of Braedyn Murphy, the wait is almost over!
The third book in the Daughters of Lilith series, will be released on January 31, 2014.... 



"Sacrifice" (Daughters of Lilith: Book 3) by Jennifer Quintenz

Daughters of Lilith, Book 3:
Sacrifice

Just when Braedyn Murphy thought she understood the danger descending on Puerto Escondido, a new threat arrives. A cult devoted to Lilith has taken up residence in the little town, and when Cassie gets tangled up its intrigue, Braedyn realizes she might have to chose between protecting her friends and stopping Lilith from reclaiming this earth. With her duties to the Guard wearing on her, Braedyn turns to Lucas for solace. Together they wonder if now is the time to claim their one night together—knowing that one night is all they may ever have. Darker forces have their own plans for Braedyn and the Guard. Braedyn knew this fight could be brutal—but how much can one girl be asked to sacrifice in order to save the world?




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Check out the previous books in the series!




"Before you even start this review, put down anything you are doing and go read Thrall. It's AMAZING! BREATHTAKING! Engaging and smart, Thrall leaves you speechless!" - Savannah, Books With Bite 

"The writing style is so smooth, yet gripping. Add some good characters, well-paced story and you have something that I like. No, not like. Love... No surprise that “Thrall” gets full five stars and the highest recommendations I can give." - Linda, The Fantasy Librarian

"How do I even begin to put all the crazy, gushy, ramblings in my brain about this book onto paper?!? Where to even begin?....This book is a MUST read!" - Hooked In A Book review on Amazon










"If you like gutsy fantasy of the urban variety this should definitely be on your 'must read' list. Don't let the YA label put you off either, like all the best YA fiction, this can be enjoyed by adults as well. I give it an unreserved 5 stars." - Tahlia, Awesome Indies

"This is one of those books that I have been looking forward to since June of last year... I loved this book and I'm so happy I finally got to read it. I recommend the entire series for the fully developed characters, the impressive mythology, and the fight scenes. I am dreading waiting for the next book." - David, David-Reviews.com 

 "Great reading. LOVE IT. Jennifer Quintenz is a special writer who can be very riveting... Spent several sleepless nights in a crazy rush to see how it ends. Can't wait for the next books." - Terri, review on Amazon 






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About the author...


Jennifer Quintenz is an award-winning film and television writer, author, and graphic novelist. She has written for Twentieth Television, Intrepid Pictures, and Archaia Studios Press. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.





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Special thanks to author (and fellow avid reader!) Jennifer Quitenz.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this series as well as the mind behind it all, be sure to connect with the author via any of the channels linked above.






BEFORE YOU GO....
...for those readers that have stayed with me this far, BE SURE TO STOP OVER AT GOODREADS to ENTER TO WIN SACRIFICE now through February 15th, 2014!
Just thought you might like to know.
^_^

Until next time...happy reading!


Wednesday, January 22, 2014

BLOG TOUR: Eyrie by Emma Michaels + CONTEST!

Hi there!
Welcome back to part 2 of today’s MEGA BOOK PARTY as we break it down here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.  No need to show me your invite; if you made it this far, you were DEFINITELY invited….VIP even.  ^_^




The day is split right down the middle with a Children’s Picture Book in this corner and a Young Adult pick in that one.  Right now, we’re introducing the YA pick.  Coming to you straight from the fabulous-ness that is Tribute Books (Hi, Nicole!), we’re hosting a stop on a book tour today featuring the SECOND installment in an ebook series that’s really taking flight.  If you haven’t already made a point of picking up the first one, it might be high time you do…especially before the final installment in the trilogy releases THIS OCTOBER!  Just sayin’.  (^_^)  Anyway…shall we meet today’s ebook of choice?  Let’s!  On the count of three, one…two…three….




Society of Feathers, Book 2:
Eyrie
By
Emma Michaels
9780985792244
Tribute Books


About the ebook
Somewhere between falling and flying…you will find the truth. 
The truth is being unveiled and Iris’ past is unlike anything she ever could have guessed. For Stryx, finding your missing half doesn’t always mean finding your mate. Iris has been missing a part of herself for so long that no one is sure she will be able to put the pieces back together and her ever reliable dreams may be forcing her astray. Coping with the death of someone she loved, she is forced to face the truth and break free from the lies that have caged her.




KINDLE    |   NOOK    |    iBookstore    |    Smashwords    |    PDF




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Okay, word to the wise…if you don’t normally delve into full on fantasy works, be sure to go into this story with a clear head and an open mind because you’re gonna need it to absorb all the details comin’ atcha.  As for me, I read it while under the weather…yeah; not the best of times admittedly, however, I did in fact still absorb the majority of the story and am ready to turn in my final answer.

Curious?

Come closer…I’ll tell you, but ONLY you…



…..



~whispers~




I REALLY ENJOYED IT!

Yep, that’s right.
Even with a cold muddling up my brain, even with the format for reading being an ebook….I…still…enjoyed…it!
The story picks up just where the first one left off…a word of wisdom to readers, READ BOOK ONE FIRST…so you’re not trying to play catch up with what’s transpired in the mean time.  The characters are in just as much peril.  The feelings of loss and discovery are still very real and very raw.  The plot line marches at a slower pace as is the case with most book-two’s-in-a-trilogy as we gather more information about what has transpired and what’s still to come. 


A few of my favorites this time around….
…character:  Nestor.  We are only beginning to know him but I find this young lad remarkable and with such an old soul.
…scene:  the masquerade ball.  I could envision the view as their group entered; the surprise and shock on the faces of those just learning of her existence and realizing what it may mean to them all.
…mystery:  the BIG reveal of the cloaked figure at book’s end.  Can’t say any more but I’m definitely waiting on edge for the conclusion later this year to see how this plays out.
…love connection:  Falcon and Iris.  I’m sorry, there are some new ones introduced or hinted at, but his devotion to her makes my heart melt.  The end.


So, in conclusion, whether you’re a Fantasy fan or straight YA, this trilogy in the making has something for you, keeps things clean and yet exciting like you would not believe.  Well, I guess you WOULD believe if you read it….*ahem*…so what exactly were you waiting for again?  (^_^)




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About the author…
Emma Michaels is the author of the ‘A Sense of Truth’ and ‘Society of Feathers’ series. Her goal with her latest YA series the 'Society of Feathers' is to give others what she did not have growing up; a strong female protagonist with asthma.  While her previous aspiration was to be a lady knight she realized that not being able to run more than a few feet might become a hindrance so turned to writing instead. Her day jobs include being a cover artist, marketing consultant and silk screen designer. 


As the founder of The Writers Voice blog (http://OurBooksOurVoice.Blogspot.com) she loves to connect authors and readers. As a book blogger turned author, she was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, until she moved at eighteen to Washington State. Suddenly, the world was a new place filled with tall green trees that reached further for the sky with every moment, making her want to do the same. Ever since, she has tried to make her life something new and different from what it was before, pursuing her future career, setting high goals and reaching for them. With the support of her fiancé, Chihuahua, and her amazing blog followers and fellow bloggers, she wants to prove to the world that anything is possible and help inspire fellow literary lovers to reach for their dreams.


Official Site    |    GoodReads    |    Twitter    |    Facebook




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Now, it’s time to keep this virtual party bus rolling along with ANOTHER chance for you to win!  Oh go ahead, say it…you LOVE scoring a chance to win a book, a prize, a…something.  ^_^  It’s okay.  Many folks are sharing the same boat.  The second prize opportunity of the day gives you a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!  You know, so you can get THIS EBOOK and maybe even the first one?  *ahem*  Anyway….for your chance to win, just fill out

THIS RAFFLECOPTER FORM.

Contest ends 01/31/13.



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Special thanks to Nicole at Tribute Books for the chance to participate in this tour. (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their growing catalog of wonders, be sure to stop by their official site, check out the tour page, or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more about the author behind this series as well as her other works, pay a visit to author Emma Michaels’ multiple online portals linked above.  This title is available now via Tribute Books in multiple ebook formats, so be on the look out for it on a virtual shelf near you.

Until next time…GOOD LUCK…and happy reading!