Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Book Review: Trinity (+Giveaway)

Kiana longs to walk through a forest and feel grass between her toes. But she is the living embodiment of a goddess and has enemies who wish to murder her. Her death will curse the whole of Gettryne. Locked away for protection, she dreams of freedom.

Her wish comes true in the worst possible way, when her home and defenders are destroyed.

Along with an inexperienced guard and a hunted outcast, Kiana flees the ravages of battle to search for a solution to the madness that has gripped Gettryne for a thousand years. Pursued by the vicious and unrelenting Wolves, their journey will take them far beyond their limits, to a secret that will shake the world.






Trinity
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 244 (ebook)
Part of Series: -
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 3/5 stars
Buy:  Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)


REVIEW:
First let's take some minutes and admire the cover. This is what i'm talking about! Beautiful and original!

Now let's get on to the story...In general i can say it's a quite captivating story. Lots of action, magic and mystery and completely adventurous. From the first pages to the last ones it keeps you at the edge of your sit. And not only that but it's original too. Completely different than what i've read so far which it was a nice surprise. Who doesn't love to read something different? 

The least that i can say for the characters are that they are interesting. Each one of them is unique with their own ideas and views. Unfortunately, the biggest problem for me with the book were also the characters. While they seem to have such a colorful background, you barely get to know them. I couldn't really connect with them and the "bonding" scenes were either too fast or they didn't exist. You could see the characters grow and change, but you didn't really get the process of it. I always felt like something was missing. The fact that also sometimes, was confused on who character i was following wasn't good either. There were times that i felt like you follow 2 different POVs combined. Which is not something uncommon, it's just didn't work out for me here.

Still, it was a great read and the story is that strong that makes you to wanna finish the book.



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Tuesday, October 30, 2012

A Message by Jonah Mason

Character Post
By H. David Blalock

My name is Jonah Mason. They call me Angelkiller, a name I hate. For one thing, it reminds me how old I really am. That name is only given to those who have been in the Conflict for more than a millennium, and I have earned it more than twice over. I have seen kingdoms rise and fall, fought in more battles than I remember, killed and wounded more men that I want to remember, and all in the name of the Conflict.

When I was younger, I fought out of enthusiastic fervor, genuinely excited to be a part of such a grand venture. We were fighting to free the world from the Darkness, to bring the Light back to mankind that had been so savagely stolen. Back then it had been so simple: a war of extremes, of good versus evil in visible and obvious terms. I had no doubts then.

But now...

I have seen more than anyone should. I have watched my comrades and allies fight and die, with no apparent end to the Conflict. Over the centuries I have tried and failed to live a normal life, to have a family and friends outside the Conflict, hoping to keep them untouched by its foul taint. But it never works. I am forever drawn back in and lose what I work so hard to hold.

So, here I am again, leader of one of the North American resistance cells. Perhaps this time will be the last. Things are different now. I have been singled out for judgment by the three Knights sent to aid our cell in its work. I have been given an ultimatum as to what I want to do with my life because I have made a serious error. I have dealt with The Enemy as equals. It is a grievous breach of protocol and could have drastic consequences not just for myself, but for my entire team.

I can only hope the Master is merciful to us all.


In the second book of the Angelkiller Triad, Traitor Angel, the war between The Army of Light and The Enemy continues behind the scenes. Unknown to the general population, the battle for control of humanity is heating up.

Jonah Mason, called Angelkiller, faces more than one decision. His Army resistance cell is wounded physically and emotionally, on the brink of falling apart. The mysterious allies calling themselves Knights are pressuring him to abandon his people. Meanwhile, the world outside draws closer to Armageddon.

As Mason and his friends pursue their campaign against Dorian Azrael's global megacorporation, Andlat Enterprises, the stakes get higher with each desperate foray into the enemy's computers. They are fated to lose one of their number and gain an unlikely ally, but any advantage they gain could be fleeting at best.

If they fail, it could mean the end of The Army and all resistance to the forces of Darkness.


Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 288
Part of Series: The Angelkiller Triad #1
Buy:  Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)


A Rather Lovely Soirée: Jane Austen Covers

A Rather Lovely Soirée
for
Talk like Jane Austen Day
Event production by
Random Magic Tour
Sasha Soren (Random Magic)
Oct. 30, 2012

Welcome, dear guests! You've arrived at a rather lovely soirée in honor of Talk like Jane Austen Day. Talk like Jane Austen Day is an annual event, marking the anniversary of the first printing of Sense and Sensibility (1811), Austen's first published novel.

Hello again! Last year at the same day, i wrote my favorite Austen movies so i was thinking to concentrate on books more this time.  Jane Austen's book are pretty known to everybody, but still you judge the book by its cover. Especially the classics have so many different editions that's crazy. The post is all about my favorite Austen book covers of some of Austen's most known novels! Feel free to tell me your opinion or share yours!

Pride and Prejudice
Goodreads Editions: 1229
There are 25 pages of covers for that book. Yeah..i'm not getting through them all. In general, most of them are of ladies drawn like our event avatar. And there are definitely the covers of the movie adaptions but let's see some that stand out.
(Also there is a beautiful gallery of P&P art at goodreads!)


Sense and Sensibility
Goodreads Editions: 641
I could have picked for winner the cover of the same edition as P&P but i wanted to show you something different. The movie covers are actually really good too.


Emma
Goodreads Editions: 220
Surprisingly the movie covers are kinda bad if you look at them. Still the usual classic cover style for Austen's book stays but i did found some good ones!



In honor of the day, we've assembled a delightful collection of interesting features on all things Jane Austen and her times. Feel free to stop in at any blog below to enjoy something interesting, and to leave your calling card (link to your blog) in the comments section of any blog, if you've particularly enjoyed your visit.

Just browse below for a delightful Austen-related tidbit offered to you by the co-hosts of A Rather Lovely Soirée for Talk like Jane Austen Day.



Monday, October 29, 2012

Book Review: Moonlight and Oranges (+Giveaway)

A timeless tale of young romance.

Lorona Connelly is ready for a change from her carefully planned, bookish life. When sparks fly at a costume party, she embrances a chance for romance with handsome Kestrin Feather. However, she quickly realizes that even love and destiny may not be enough to overcome the reality if an overprotective mother-in-law and Kestrin's long, tarnished history of relationships.

When Lorona's curiosity leads her to Kestrin's journal, doubt plagues them both with insecurities and threatens the relationship. Can true love overcome the odds, or was their whirlwind romance just a frivolous crush?

Author Elise Stephens shares a journey of young love, fate, and wounded trust in the story of Lorona and Kestrin, a couple who must learn to overcome their fears to share a life together.

Moonlight And Oranges
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 220 (ebook)
Part of Series: -
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 5/5 stars
Buy: Book Depository || Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)

REVIEW:
The reason I chose this book was because of its summary. It sounded so romantic and normal. Plus, the cover wasn't bad, it is enough attractive. And the title was so weird that made me intrigued.

The story is not quite normal. The characters were normal. Kestrin is a womanizer, I can't say that there is something wrong in that. And Lorona is an innocent girl, who still believes that a knight in a shinny armor will come to take her far away to live their romance. Again, nothing wrong in that. What didn't feel normal were the pressure and faith Kestrin had put in his dreams. He was, practically, following them like a compass, letting them guide his life. Even though I loved this characteristic, I couldn't help but wonder that this was some sort of fiction and that those kinds of things don't happen in real life. Or, at least, in my life.

What I didn't like was how fast the things were moving. How rushing all of their decisions were. They rushed to move forward without knowing each other well or without thinking with their minds, only with their hearts. And when they started learning each other, they only found things they didn't like and starting having doubts about their relationship. Plus, there was Amanda, Kestrin's mother, who was messing in her son's life for the wrong reasons, making things more difficult. And she was a little creepy from time to time.

During the story, we learn many things that make your mouth pop open. The end was what changed my mind altogether. It is so romantic, when the characters realize their feelings and take certain decisions. It reminded me of the greatest and most romantic love stories ever. The author tells us at the end, where exactly she got inspired, and I'll admit that I wasn't familiar with the story, which was also very romantic.

Bottom line, I loved it, despite being fast and having to deal with rush and -sometimes- stupid decisions. It was painfully romantic. It made me believe in love at first sight and that sometimes we have to follow our hearts and not our heads when it comes to love.

P.S.: I know that the title sounds strange, but there's a reason for that. The oranges play a major role in the characters connection. Believe me when I say that after a point, I was craving for some orange juice myself. I finished two cartons during reading it.

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Saturday, October 27, 2012

Book Review: Broken Aro (+Giveaway)

Open your eyes to darkness. What do you see? Does the darkness frighten you? Now imagine the darkness being the cargo hold of a slave ship. Your city has fallen. Your family is most likely dead. You don't know anyone around you, and some of them aren't even human. Giving up would be so easy to do, but not for Arowyn Mason. Not after being raised in a military family with seven brothers. Every great story should begin with a plan. Aro’s was to escape and to survive.

Escape comes, but at a price. As they reach the shore, Aro and the other survivors learn that freedom doesn’t mean safety. The slavers want their property back and will do anything to get it. The party uses every ounce of their brute strength, a hearty helping of cunning, and even ancient magics to keep themselves alive. Sickness, danger, and even love surprise them at every turn. Dealing with danger becomes their way of life, but none of them ever considered that nothing can be quite as dangerous as a prophecy. Running turns into another race altogether as her world falls to pieces again and again.


Broken Aro
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 264 (ebook)
Part of Series: The Broken Ones #1
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 5/5 stars
Buy: Book Depository || Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)

REVIEW:
WOW..Just wow. It's been so long since i loved a book that much! I have actually already ordered it printed, because i really want to re-read it and have it in my small library.Come to me book! COME!

The book is exactly what i like. Fantasy in another world, with all those amazing races (elves,dragons,etc). Mystery and adventure surrounds the world and it's concentrated on the relationships between the characters (family and friends) and the story itself. Jen Wylie is an author who doesn't hide the truth about the world (there is violence,deaths etc) without being too graphic. When something is to happen, it will happen no matter if it would make it better to have a happy ending.

A book that makes you not only love all the characters, but get to know them so well. Even though you follow only Aro's POV, you get to chance through scenes to understand and meet all the characters and feel for them. And of course our main characters are all so well structured and in depth. I thought i was there with them through the whole story.

And there are dragons too :p

One of the easiest 5 stars i've given this year.



Thursday, October 25, 2012

Cover Reveal: The Chronicles of Fire and Ice



The Chronicles of Fire & Ice
Publication Date: 2013
Part of Series: The Legend of the Archangel #1

Is love stronger than race?

The world is changeing as we know it, the human race is dwindling, but so are the angels. In order to preserve their bloodline they have bred with humans, creating a new race called Nephilim. But there is one race that is more endangered than humans or Seraphim, Archangels. As most people believe the Archangels have become extinct, rumours surface of a Legend; that a baby was bord out of flame, the offspring of an archangel.

Dyston Blackbell is tasked to find and protect this child. he sends her strange dreams in hope that she will find him. When he discovers that she has enrolled at his family's angel academy in Melbourne, he will do anything to protect Scarlett. But when he finds himself falling for her the Heavenly realm rejects him.

But 21-year-old Scarlett Porter realises that being half Archangel has some advantages. She has developed a unique trait, one that marks her as an Archangel. Will she keep it to herself or use it to fight back?
When an old enemy resurfaces, Scarlett discovers that Dyston's older brother Lakyn is at the helm of their sinister plans; to destroy the Nephilim race or use Scarlett for their own selfish purposes when they find out who she really is.

And when Lakyn discovers that Scarlett had only seducer him to rescue Dyston from his prison in the Realm of Light, it sends him on a journey of self-discovery and destruction. One that sees him venturing farther off course than his father would like. Will he choose a new life of love or his old life of darkness?

Trick or Treat: Halloween Movies

Welcome to Bookie Brunch: Trick or Treat!
On each blog stop from now through Halloween, a blogger or vlogger will have a handpicked Halloween treat to share with you - it might be a video clip, or a feature about great spooky films, a playlist of great, creepy songs, a recipe for treats, or a gallery of witches.
It might be anything! But it's sure to be something fun, so feel free to drop by each day from October 23-31, to pick up some cute treats to put you in the Halloween mood. All the treats will be added into the linky at the end of this post, so feel free to browse.

Our treat for you is Halloween Movies
In case you won't go out hunting for treats or you are just too afraid to leave your house on a night like that we made a list for you with movies you can watch with your friends or family. Now if you are not really the type that can handle scare (like me), you better skip the first movies, and go to the more family friendly ones. Kid movies are always. BUT if you still don't want to watch kids movies, then there are some other supernaturalish movies at the end of the not scary but neither for kids.







Enjoy your Halloween!! And do let us know what are you planning to watch or do in that special day. We do not have Halloween here, and it's always nice to read about it.



About Bookie Brunch: Trick or Treat!: The first blog hop was a Bookie Brunch  special event for Halloween, and it was a lot of fun, so we're just continuing the tradition. Bookie Brunch was a weekly book discussion founded by Sasha Soren, the author of Random Magic. Browse archive

Also this month - drop by for Video Week: Random Magic, from Oct. 21-30, featuring an entertaining week of cool reviews and creative features from vloggers around the world. They're featuring the book Random Magic by Sasha Soren. Browse schedule (URL TBA) (( OR )) Visit the YouTube page for the schedule in infobox.




Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Movie Review: The Amazing Spiderman

The Amazing Spider-Man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Stone), and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents' disappearance - leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr Curt Connors (Ifans), his father's former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors' alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.


The Amazing Spiderman
Released: 2012
Runtime: 136 mins
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Buy: Amazon (UK) || Amazon (US)

REVIEW:
 A much anticipated movie this one. Probably because it got a remake in ten years. And of course as it's normal, everyone's comparing it with Sam Raimi's Spiderman Trilogy. I'll probably do it too.

The story is based on the Ultimate universe of Marvel, which is supposed have slightly different stories than the original one. I have not read the comics, and i can't really say anything about that. Even the researching i do, it's half and half. Many say it's a good adaption, other don't.

Personally, i liked this take on the story more. Unfortunately, the plot had many holes in this one or common mistakes. There were also times it became a little slow (like the romantic aspect of the movie), while others it was going to fast (the death of Uncle Ben barely exists or affect you in any way).

What i really liked though was that for first time i saw Spiderman as a human. The movie concentrates more on the feelings of Spiderman, with less action than the original trilogy. Personally i preferred it because it gave an entirely different vibe. Andrew Garfield might not look exactly like the comics spiderman in appearance, but he was closer in character and gave an amazing performance. Seriously, i found him perfect. He is young and one of the really good and talented authors out there and it seemed like he was feeling every single scene. I still remember Tobey McGuire crying and me laughing my ass off on how fake was it, while here when Garfield expressed the same feelings i was stunned and speechless.
Another good thing is Gwen Stacy both as a character and as acting. She is way more interesting than Mary Jane and not the usual damsel in distress. She was actually useful, and witty and clever. And Emma Stone was really good as her too. Her connection with Garfield was really strong.

Now, the special effects part of the film. They were good of course but they concentrated way too much on 3D. I did not watch it in 3D so all the scenes that were in there for that reason, were more annoying than interesting.

In general is a movie i enjoyed. I would not put it better than Spiderman 1. Maybe a tie, but for a entirely different reasons. Surely better than Spiderman 2-3. As an individual movie a little bit above average.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Book Review: Deception Peak (+Giveaway)

Teenage Ian Wilson follows his father through a portal into a deceptively beautiful Realm, where horses run free, the wind sings prophetic melodies, and their computer avatars come to life.

But separation from his father puts Ian in peril as he’s abducted by a tribe of dragon worshipers and forced to find his courage.

As he struggles for his freedom and embarks on a perilous search for his father, Ian meets the true peacekeepers of the Realm and learns of a greater purpose for his being
in there







Deception Peak
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 208 (ebook)
Part of Series: The Ian's Realm Saga #1
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Buy: Book Depository || Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)


REVIEW:
I think it was fate reading this book. I saw it twice around, and then it was available for tour, it was like screaming "read me!". I'm so happy i did!

You know you are about to read a good book, when the first words you are "The dragon"...okay kidding. Still, the books starts in an entirely exciting and mysterious dream and you know you won't put the book down if you don't finish it. It's a story every gamer would love. Who doesn't want to get into a game right? And that is a big reason, it's so easily to connect with the story. Personally, i imagined myself doing that some times so actually reading about it, felt real and got me "woo woo". Action, magic, adventure, a dragon are the main elements of the book and with Gardner's simple but captivating writing all comes to life.

If i had a problem that would be my connection with the character. All of them are likeable and interesting to follow for different reasons but you only get to really know Ian. Of course he is the hero of the story, and i kind his POV. He is clever, brave but sometimes he shock and mouth gets the best of him. Still, there are characters like his father Alex that i would love to read more about them and connect more with them too. Because no matter what, it seems like everyone has a part to play.

In the end it was a book i quite enjoyed. Gone in one read, and not only because it was a little small.


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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for review from First Rule Publicity from the author as part of a virtual book tour. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Monday, October 22, 2012

Book Review: Caught In A Moment

Caught in a Moment is the story of Alex Trueman, a teenager who daydreams himself unwittingly into the strange world of Intersticia. This is a world outside of ordinary time, that exists in the splender intervals between instants. From Alex's point of view the world around hom freezes into immobility. At first it seems that he alone is free to wonder the hushed streets with their montionless cars and people. But he is not alone. Alex soon discovers that he shares this worlds with others. There are a few dozen fellow dreamers who share his fate. There is plump, bespectacled Will, pretty brunette, Kelly and rebellious outcast Paolo. Presiding over them all the enigmatic Ganymade, an irascible vagrant who distributes food to his dependents and sets them perverse tasks to perform in return.

Alex soon finds that he has rare skills in Intersticia. Almost uniquely he can affect the montionless world of 'Statica' around them. He can open doors, help himself to food and move objects. But this forbidden activity soon sets him on a collision course with Ganymade in which the very existence of Intersticia is put at risk.

Caught in a Moment
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 261 (paperback)
Part of Series: -
Purchased: Review for the author
Rating: 3/5 stars
Buy: Book Depository || Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)

REVIEW:
This book was asked to be read and reviewed by the author. I was lucky enough to be provided with a printed copy, which I think was amazing.

I liked by the synopsis that it had to do with parallel worlds. I haven't read a book like that for a long time and I instantly felt curious. The characters, even though young, were nice enough and I liked that they weren't stupid or too scared to do nothing. There are all different, so you can possibly relate with them. I, personally, couldn't, only with some of their decisions.

The descriptions were amazing. I noticed that the author is British, and I don't know if that counts, but I found the language used rich and being used better than other books. It was kind of difficult to adjust in the beginning, it didn't look like a book for younger readers, not because of its content, but due to its rich and well used language. Probably, because I'm not used in reading British novels.

I thought it was a stand alone novel, but it turned out to be a trilogy, which I don't understand. It looked just brilliant and complete. The ending was fast-moving and so very anxious. I was sitting at the edge of my chair until I reach it. And it left you with some small, but smart questions, like the movies, where you can imagine what will happen next, but you're not completely sure, because there are many possibilities.

But it was perplexed. There were various things with which the author was playing. Angels, science fiction and weird creatures, all mixed together. Sometimes it felt out of control. And as the story was flowing, new facts were getting in the way, that I, at some point, felt lost and tired.

Bottom line, I have mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, I loved the writing and the end. On the other hand, I hated how complicated it became. Now, it's up to you to choose if you're going to try and read it or not.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Mini Movie Reviews: Bachelorette & Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

Regan is used to being first at everything. Imagine her horror and chagrin when she finds out the girl everyone called Pig Face in high school is going to tie the knot before she does!But Regan sucks it up and takes on bridesmaid duties along with her childhood pals: substance-abusing, promiscuous Gena and ditzy Katie.

The single ladies are determined to put their bitterness aside and have an awesomely hedonistic bachelorette party. Armed with acerbic wit and seemingly endless supplies of coke and booze, the foul-mouthed femmes embark on one very long and emotional night filled with major wedding-dress panic, various bodily fluids, and cute ex-boyfriends. Kirsten Dunst is consistently funny leading the talented cast, which includes the delightful scene stealer, Rebel Wilson, who plays Becky, a.k.a. Pig Face.

Adding to the tradition of successful bridal comedies, this debut feature by writer/director Leslye Headland is a sassy and sometimes romantic ride that never forgets to celebrate the complexities of female friendship.

Bachelorette
Released: 2012
Runtime: 87 mins
Rating: 1/5 stars
Buy: Not Available Yet

REVIEW:
Seriously, i don't even know why i watched the movie. From the trailer you could understand was something like a copy of the Bridesmaids, a movie i did not like. Anyway, i watched this one. I can say it was bad. Really bad. The storyline is boring. The movie is not funny. And except of Rebel Wilson, the rest of the acting was horrible. I couldn't stand watching Kristen Dunst and Isha Fisher. Skip it if you can.



 Taking audiences on a humorous, moving, and intimate journey against an epic backdrop of Earth's final days, Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is the feature directorial debut of screenwriter Lorene Scafaria (Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist). Set in a too-near future where time at once stands still and is slipping away forever, the writer/director explores what people will do and how they will feel when humanity's end is near.

Seeking a friend for the end of the World
Released: 2012
Runtime: 101 mins
Rating: 2/5 stars
Buy: Amazon (UK) || Amazon (US)

REVIEW:
I watched this movie because i confused it with "The End of World" which unfortunately is not out yet.  Either way, this one is supposed to be a comedy too. Well...no. I don't remember laughing at all. Not even once. It was way too predictable and Steve Carell was "nah". I found he had no connection with Keira. On the other hand Keira Knightley was a really interesting and cute character and seemed like she was feeling her role.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Event Recaps: International Techical Fair & Mists of Pandaria Launch Event

It's been some time since i wrote about an event, so i thought it was about time to write about the ones that happened the previous month before the new ones come. Forgive me for not going in detail as usual.

International Technical Fair - Thessaloniki, Greece (Sept. 16)
E-gaming Section

Even thought the fair is pretty big and has everything, me, Tonia and Filios were only traveling  for the gaming events. I say traveling because it's a 5hours trip with the train and it was one big happy trip :p We had the idea of doing it without sleeping, like go > get to the event > leave which is more than 24 hours on feet. Yes, it was a little stupid and we dropped dead after but it was really fun! There were also some interesting things that happened on train, which at first had us laughing but later we saw it wasn't that fun since we were fully tired. We got at Thes. really early, like  4 hours before the Fair opens, so we decided along with Antoni and Theo, from Cosplay Corp, who were also at the train (yeah they had the same amazing idea as us....), to find something to eat. We did walk A LOT, but hey...Later we started searching for the entrance of the Fair. Let's say that didn't go that well and we spent about an hour or more just walking around and around.

At some point we obviously went in. Cowboy came and fetch us from the right entrance, before we die or turn into statues. It was so nice to see those small couches inside xD The event started on time. It was the League of Legends Balkan Finals, with the CowboyTV crew at the microphone. Gifts were flying, people gathered, there was a cosplay competition , Greece(The Web) lost the finals (yes we were on the finals!) and Bulgaria(Eternal Devastation) won!

Awesome huh? I wish you could have been there! That's why i have photos for you! :D






Mists of Pandaria Launch Event - Athens, Greece

I'm pretty sure if you are a gamer you already know about the 4th expansion of World of Warcraft and what better way to celebrate than an event. Again hosted by CowboyTV, probably the most beautiful event i've ever been.The team did a great job transforming the place Pandaren wise. The rest it was pretty much like the Diablo III Launch event, but we had some additional dance contests which were really really fun to watch! Again, there was cosplay...hey guess who was there!! Cosplay Corp tadah!!! ALL the costumes were freaking cool, and really there is nothing more to say than enjoy the photos. (Nina came in this one, but she didn't last! I'm to train her a little more!)




Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Book Review: The Crown Phoenix Series #1-2 (+Giveaway)

Each night, Miriam hears the eerie whistle of The Night Watchman Express.

The sound of the traim gives her visions of an underground factory and a terrifying laboratory....

Miriam has only her guardian's son for company, and she and Simon dislike each other from the start. But they must find a way to trust each other, or they will end up on the sinister Night Watchman Express.

Full of danger, suspense, betrayal, and greed, this steampunk adventure is for readers of all ages.







Night Watchman Express
Publication Date: 2011
Pages: 279 (paperback)
Part of Series: Crown Phoenix #1
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 5/5 stars
Buy:  Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)

REVIEW:
This book, alongside its sibling, came to me just it time. I was in a desperate need of something interesting and different. To tell you the truth, steampunk and dystopian novels are something I love to read, but my world is full of weird creatures, that there is, simply, not enough time.

About the characters:
Miriam is a slightly spoiled, orphaned girl. Her world turns upside down when her guardians and their son move in her house. She has a vivid imagination and some spirit and this is something I liked about her.
The Marchpanes are Miriam's guardians. They are awful to her and their purpose is mysterious, since from the moment they move in with Miriam, they try to find something specific and for an unknown reason.
Simon is the Marchpanes' son. He is a rich kid, with no trace of his parents' characters. He's not ambitious for money and fame. He and Miriam dislike each other from the start, but their mutual hate for the Marchpanes brings them together.
Neil is Simon's best friend. He is a simple poor boy, and smart enough to win a scholarship at the same school Simon attends.
Mana is the most awesome character in the book. She is mysterious, wise and from the Islands, and she has some unique powers.
The Cantwells are some rich, charming and evil people. Their full plans of whom are best reveiled in the second book of the series.
And finally, Riki, an island girl that we meet later in the book. She is so nerve-breaking that, in my opinion, makes Neil a hero for tolerating her.

About the book:
The story is set in England and in an island called Lampala. The author is great with the descriptions of the places and the situations.
This book has two parts. In the first we meet the characters until something happens and they get separated and in the second we only see Neil and Riki in Lampala, where they explore the island discovering truths and helping Mana.
Although the author writes in the third person, I felt a little disappointed, because in the first part we leave Simon and Miriam in a very difficult position, and though the author was really good in capturing your interest in the current pages, I couldn't help but thinking of their fate.
The steampunk element was not very present and that was another disappointment.
But no matter those, the story is very capturing and you keep turning the pages with the hope that you find answers. Needless to say, that you find answers, which in their way, raise more questions.

The end leaves you with many questions and you are eager to start the next one immediately.


Their courage will be tested to the breaking point.

In the bestselling action-packed steampunk adventure The Night Watchman Express, Miriam and Simon were kidnapped and thrown on the strange train....
now Book Two of Crown Phoenix series, they arrive at the terrifying destination known as Devil's Kitchen.

Here they will face human experiments in a laboratory known as The Infirmary. Miriam is forced to work in an underground factory, while Simon is held in a luxurious prison by jailers who are as beautiful as they are deadly....






The Devil's Kitchen
Publication Date: 2011
Pages: 208 (paperback)
Part of Series: Crown Phoenix #2
Purchased: Review for tour
Rating: 5/5 stars
Buy:  Amazon (US) || Amazon (UK)

REVIEW:
This is the second book of the Crown Phoenix series. This one is smaller than its sibling and far more interesting.

We learn that Simon and Miriam end up in Devil's Kitchen, an awful, filthy place that Marchpanes created in order to manufacture something that will profit them.
Even though, they want to stay as close as possible, from the very start, Miriam and Simon end in different places. Miriam is forced to work in the mines and Simon is being held prisoner in a luxurious prison, under the supervision of characters we already know.
Mana and Neil, after making their plans at the end of the first book return to England to set them in place. And everyone slowly, discover a piece of the puzzle, a clue or an answer, that's important enough for the future of the Company and the lives of million people.

When it comes to new characters, there is Kyoge, an island man, protector of Mana and very strong-willed fellow. And a numerous of other characters Miriam, Neil and Simon meet, some of them friends, some of them foes.

In this book, the author follows all the characters. In each chapter I was transferred in a different situation, leaving you anxious of the one you left.
I couldn't believe how braver and more mature the characters became. Still, the author doesn't tell us how old the characters are. In the first book, they acted like children, but in this one, they act more like adults.
The steampunk element is still missing, but you still don't care, because you're anxious the entire time.
While in prison, Miriam uses her imagination to make her days bearable, Simon uses everything he has, proving us he's smarter than we thought and Neil, though suffering from agony when it comes to his family, becomes an incredible help. We, finally, learn what the are the motives of both, Cantwells and Marchpanes.

And before you realize it, you reach the end. Questions are answered, some revelations make your mouth drop and you have an end that, although it looks complete, it's not.

Bottom line, I loved them both. I couldn't wait to reach the end and find out the truth I, and the characters, longed for. I wasn't expecting the books to be so capturing and great and that makes my decision to participate to the tour worth it. They weren't the least boring. I loved them and I can't wait to read the third, and I believe, the last book. I'm so anxious as to what happens next.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

CROWN OF PHOENIX TOUR

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for review from First Rule Publicity from the author as part of a virtual book tour. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Blog Tour: Earth "Excerpt" (+Giveaway)

Shayna and her two best friends have the abilities to manipulate and control the four elements, earth, air, water and fire. While learning to hone their growing powers, they discover a new and malicious presence in their sleepy beach town. Someone is performing blood magic and threatens to expose their small magical community. So far only small animals have been slaughtered, but then the nightmares start.

Shayna suffers nightmares of being chased and sacrificed only to wake up bloodied and bruised. She thinks her magical blood is the ultimate target for the final blood rite. When an innocent girl, Tracy, is kidnapped Shayna knows it's only a ploy to draw her out; she can't let someone die because of her.


Earth
Publication Date: 2011
Pages: ?? (ebook)
Part of Series: Elemental #1

It was a rough start to the school year for Shayna and her friends, Jodi and Steven, but thankfully summer break is near. Trying to sort out her feelings for the new guy in town, Shayna agrees to let Jensen join her on a group date with her friends. While out they end up at a local coffee house where their classmate, social outcast Jeremy McCormick, is humiliated by his baseball star brother. When Jeremy runs away from the jeering crowd, Shayna and Jodi hear the unmistakable sound of a thousand wings chasing after him, but no one else seems to hear them. These are not like any air elementals that Shayna or Jodi have ever encountered before and they fear Jeremy has gotten himself tangled up in something too dangerous for him to handle. But when Shayna tries to help Jeremy control his magical abilities she realizes it might be the biggest mistake of her life.
Air
Publication Date: 2011
Pages: ?? (ebook)
Part of Series: Elemental #2

Book Three in The Elemental Series

Shayna's first surfing session of the summer is interrupted by the screams of a mother who has lost her little boy in the water. Without regard to her own safety, Shayna swims out, rescues the boy, but must escape the clutches of something far worse than she could have ever imagined – mermaids.

Compelled to answer the sirens' call, the boys of Shayna's town are drawn to the sea, but when they return are afflicted by an unknown illness, a sickness which is draining them of their life force. Unable to tell anyone about the mermaids, Shayna and her friends are forced to solve the mystery before it's too late, and in doing so, Shayna will finally have to face the full force of her powers. Whether she’s ready or not, she will have to face her true nature.

Water
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: ?? (ebook)
Part of Series: Elemental #3


Excerpt for Earth

It was a relatively silent drive to his house, but at least it was blessedly short. It turned out he lived in my neighborhood, just a few blocks over. Not that it was all that surprising; if he lived too far away he’d be enrolled at our rival high school. I pulled up to the curb outside his house, letting the engine idle loudly, purring like a contented tiger. He reached for the handle, turning his body towards the door, hesitating for a second, not really staring out the window.

I had the sudden horrible thought that he might try to kiss me goodnight like this was a date or something. I kept both hands securely on the steering wheel and my eyes forward and tried to keep my breathing normal.

“You know,” he said quietly, turning his face slightly towards me but not his body, “It’s ok not to hate me.” It was probably the saddest voice I had ever heard; my stomach ached with the urge to comfort such a pitiful sound.

“I don’t, I don’t…” It was like someone had hit me in the back of the head with a baseball bat. I was so confused by such a blunt statement that I was fumbling for the words. “I mean, that’s not… you shouldn’t…” He pulled on the door handle and pushed at the door to step out. The icy wind rushed inside behind him, swirling with the heat from the car vents. He leaned down, one hand still on the door and the other on the roof of the car.

“Just in case you did, I wanted you to know it’s not too late to change your mind.” He smiled then, softly and not showing any teeth, not even crinkling the corners of his eyes, eyes that seemed to be searching my face for reassurance. I knew, horribly, that my face was slack jawed and stunned. He stepped back and shut the door, suddenly cutting off the cold air with one last gust.

I watched him walk to his front door and go inside, never looking back at me. He must have turned off the porch light, leaving the house completely in shadow, but I didn’t remember seeing the light go out. I had lost myself watching him walk away while his words echoed in my mind. I shivered, realizing my fingers ached with the effort of holding on to the steering wheel. I came back to myself and drove away.
About The Author

I don't do well talking about myself. So as basics go, I have recently self-published the first two books in my Elemental Series, Earth and Air, Young Adult Urban Fantasy novels. Look for the third installment, Water, coming in 2012!

I have been working on the Elemental Series for the last four years and plan for it to be a 5 book series. It was a hard decision to self-publish but it's been an exciting and terrifying ride. 

You can find me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shauna-...

And to my readers (or fans of my covers), I have beautiful bookmarks that I would love to share with you. If you'd like one, drop me a note with your contact info and I'd be happy to send you one!


GIVEAWAY
There is a signed copy of each paperback, Earth, Air and Water and a matching bookmark for each. There is a mini Jack-o-lantern and an awesome, sparkly candle (electric) and some fun Halloween treats that include candy, stickers and copy of one of my favorite Halloween movies, Monster House. (US only)

3 other winners will also receive a ebook from the series, winner’s choice from Earth, Air or Water. (Open Internationally)
a Rafflecopter giveaway


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