Over the next several weeks, I have the pleasure and privilege of being the launch blog for a few talented authors on their latest blog tours. To kick things off, here is my friend from across the sea: Kate Tenbeth. Join her here: http://empyricaltales.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-tour-kate-tenbeth.html

Seeking a modern-day Nancy Drew?

Sara Jane Rispoli isn't well-mannered like Nancy Drew, but she has her reasons. Her parents and little brother have disappeared; meanwhile, her uncle is possibly involved with the mob. Local author Goeglein tells this fast-paced story in the manic journaling of a 16-year-old in…

First-time author Marissa Carmel debuted last month with her YA fantasy iFeel (http://goo.gl/MnDYg). As she continues on her blog tour, see what she has to say about the expectations of being a writer and a mother.…

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve…

When I saw The Demi-Monde: Winter being publicized as a winter release, I had no idea what it was about but the title kept capturing my eye. Little did I know what a treat I had in store for me. The Demi-Monde: Winter by Rod Rees is Book #1 in the Demi-Monde Saga series. Although it could probably best be described as near-future sci-fi, I believe it has a much broader reach than that. This is one genre-bending novel. It’s…

I was in the mood for some fun paranormal reading, so when I had the opportunity to snag a digital advance reader’s copy of Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, I went for it. I hadn’t read any of her other work so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but after reading this stand-alone novel, I’m definitely a fan. Although this is a young adult novel, I think it will appeal to paranormal fantasy fans of all ages.

Kali D’Angelo attends high school just like…

When Ron Vitale approached me about reading and possibly reviewing Cinderella’s Secret Diary: Lost, I was intrigued by the concept. This is the first book in this new series. Being an extremely curious person, I’ve always wanted to know what happens after fairy tales end. “Happily ever after” has a nice ring to it but what really happens? Although this novel works well as a YA fantasy, it is also going to be very appealing to older readers who always wondered about that…

I don’t recall how I learned about Sophie & Carter by Chelsea Fine, only that something about the synopsis for this story caught my eye and touched my heart. I do know that I contacted the publisher and asked to review it, and (with fingers crossed) asked if they would sponsor a book giveaway. Not only has the publisher provided a novel but it’s an autographed copy, which is so cool!

You know I don’t traditionally review romance novels, unless…

From the book cover art for Deviant by Adrian McKinty, I thought this was a young adult fantasy or science fiction novel. Instead it’s a YA mystery/thriller. After reading the novel, the cover made much more sense to me. Deviant is a story that I think younger teen boys can relate to in many ways; however, they may not enjoy reading about animal sacrifice any more than I did. Read the rest of my review at http://popcornreads.com/?p=1909

When I read the publisher’s promo for C.J. Hill’s new young adult novel, Slayers, it sounded like a welcome departure from most fantasy novels. Slayers is a novel that’s sure to appeal to people of all ages, and I hope a major film studio jumps on the movie rights because it would make a very cool film! I’d be first in line to see it! Read the rest of my review at http://popcornreads.com/?p=1835

Think Willy Wonka meets Matrix, without the cool black coats and sunglasses, and you’ve got the basic concept of Ready Player One. Although this novel will naturally appeal to anyone who loves playing online MMRPGs (massive multiplayer role playing games), I believe it will appeal to a much broader readership as well. Yep, as the bestseller lists have already shown, we’ve got a winner here folks! Read the rest of my review at…

When I saw the publisher’s brief synopsis of Adam Slater’s new novel, The Shadowing: Hunted, I was intrigued by the use of myth and legend in a YA paranormal horror story. In fact, I think it’s the use of myth that tips this over into horror. This is one scary book – intriguing concept and definitely scary. It’s the start of a great new series that teens and adults alike are going to enjoy while they shiver! Read the rest of my review at…

Bloodlines(Bloodlines #1)

Here's an excerpt from the review I posted today for The Poisoned House. Enjoy!

Abigail “Abi” Tamper will be 15 years old in six weeks. She’s currently a scullery maid at Greave Hall. Her mother was the governess there until she died of cholera several years ago. While her mother was still alive, Abi was treated almost like part of the family; however, once her mom was gone, she was left to the mercy of Lord Greave’s hateful sister-in-law, Mrs. Cotton, the chief housekeeper. Read the…