Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Pre-Order Giveaway Winner!

Hi All!

Thanks to the Random.org for picking a winner!

Lilian

Congratulations

Could you please contact me in the next 24 - 48 hours with your details so I can get this ordered for you!
(email: melissa@spellboundbybooks.com)
Thank you to everyone that entered!

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

CurbChek by Zach Fortier

Title:  CurbChek
Author:  Zach Fortier
Genre:  Crime Fiction - Based on real events
Publisher:  Zach Fortier (Self Published)
Publication Date:  30th August 2011
ISBN:  9781466231979
Stand alone or series:   Stand Alone
Pages:  231 pages
Book Received from: Zach Fortier (Author 
First Lines:  The population is up to three-quarter million, but it's still a place where it's fairly easy to spot something out of place.

Synopsis:
Curbchek is the story of a damaged cop, Zach Fortier. Fortier worked in the police department for the city where he grew up. One foot in the world of the cops, courts and legal system. The other in the world of gangs, drugs, thugs and street violence. Where the laws and rules are made by the strongest, the schemers and the most brutal. Read about the transformation of Fortier from a green rookie to a damaged paranoid veteran seeing danger in every situation. Follow along as he walks this tight rope. Trying to make difference, breaking the laws he promised to enforce. This is a story of law and order uncensored.



My Thoughts:
While this is listed as fiction since the names of characters have changed it still reads as a non fiction.  Each chapter is broken up into different stories, some quite funny, others to put it simply, are quite horrifying.

I found that this is one of those books that, once you pick it up, it's quite hard to put down.  I started reading this at work on my lunch break and even though my lunch break had finished I was still trying to sneak in another chapter just to find out how Zach would cope in another "cop" situation.

I'll admit right now.  After reading this, I had glanced to see what other people's reactions were to this book.  There were such positive reviews but there were also others that thought the cop humour and some brutality in this was too much or that it had gone on too far.  Fair enough if that's what you think.  BUT, I can honestly say that what I read was right out in the open.  There were no spots where it seemed he was hiding or painting himself in a better light.  It was straight forward and laid out there. (Although a few jokes were a little much)  Given the circumstances of the situation and coping mechanisms I really could see the choices being played out in each.  I mean come on, what would you do?  How would you deal with that if you were thrown into any number of scenarios.  People react the best they can.

There were chapters I laughed out loud to, others where my jaw hung open in shock.  It's horrifying to think that this sort of thing happens in real life.  How could you not come out of this "damaged"?

CurbChek isn't for everyone.  There are some scenes that are quite disturbing, there's heaps of swearing (which I seemed to be accustomed to LOL just saying, since it didn't bother me)but there are also scenes where you think, wow.  CurbChek shows law and order as it is from the inside.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

In My Mailbox (102)


In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

For Review:
N/A

Bought:


Fated by Sarah Alderson


Another fairly quiet one for this week.

What did you get in your IMM?

Friday, February 24, 2012

TGIF (17) Required Reading


TGIF is a weekly feature created and hosted by Ginger at GReads! that re-caps the week’s posts and has different question each week.


This Friday's Question:
Required Reading: Which book from your school days do you remember reading and enjoying? Is there a book published now that you'd like to see in today's curriculum for kids?

From memory the only book that I remember reading in highschool was One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey which was an awesome book, and though when I watched the movie in year 9 ( I think that was in 1998.. wow.. that long ago? lol) I loved the movie even more.  Jack Nicholson played an awesome Psych ward patient!

There are a few books I'd like to see in high school today.  The first one would be Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden.  Actually the whole series of that really.  I think there could be alot learned by reading these books and they are quite an enjoyable read!

The Messenger/I am The Messenger by Markus Zusack.  Although I think this should be aimed at mature teens I think this could be another one that is both entertaining and something that teens would also enjoy and take something away from.  This is also one of my favourite books of all time!


This Weeks Posts:

Which book from your school days do you remember reading and enjoying? Is there a book published now that you'd like to see in today's curriculum for kids?

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Spellbound Noticeboard (25)



Welcome to Spellbound Noticeboard. Here is where Authors, Bloggers and others can send in anything that you'd like promoted. Competitions, book releases, blog events etc. This is your spot! So feel free to send me a line if you have anything book related (Including books made into movies) and I'll be sure to post these up! I'll also be including features etc that I come across to help spread the word for other Authors and bloggers! Just email me at melissa@spellboundbybooks.com 


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Stella from Ex Libris is celebrating her 2nd Blogoversary! Go to Ex Libris now (by clicking on the pic above) to wish her a happy blogoversary and see what goodies she has lined up for you all!

All giveaways are open worldwide and end on March 15.

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Seventh Star Press is proud to announce that The Seventh Throne, the third title in Stephen Zimmer's urban fantasy Rising Dawn Saga, won the Top Cover Art category and tied for 3rd in Top Novel in the 2011 Tor.com Readers Choice Awards.

The 2011 poll was conducted in January by Tor.com, the website for the world-renowned fantasy publisher Tor. The poll was open to all levels of authors and presses. Many SSP titles received votes, but The Seventh Throne emerged early as a top-ten contender and finished strong in the two categories it was eligible for. Patrick Rothfuss' The Wise Man's Fear won Top Novel of 2011, with Scott Sigler's The All-Pro coming in second, and Brandon Sanderson's The Alloy of Law tieing for third with Stephen Zimmer's The Seventh Throne.

The Top Cover Art of 2011 award represents Matthew Perry's first readers' poll award for Seventh Star Press, though his reputation for producing outstanding artwork has been growing rapidly with his numerous illustrations and covers created over the past 3 years.

Author Stephen Zimmer also received recognition for his Harvey & Solomon short story "An Island Sojourn", which placed fourth in the Top Short Story of 2011 category. The steampunk short story was from the Dreams of Steam II: Brass and Bolts anthology, edited by Kimberly Richardson, from Kerlak Publishing.

The Rising Dawn Saga was debuted in 2009 with the release of The Exodus Gate. The Storm Guardians, the second title, followed in 2010, and The Seventh Throne was released in August of 2011. Involving supernatural realms, a modern day setting, and filled with dystopian and apocalyptic undertones, the Rising Dawn Saga contains the depth, richness, and layers more commonly found in epic fantasy series. Drawing upon myths and lore from across the world, the saga follows the story of an ensemble of human and shape-shifting characters pitted against a movement called the Convergence.

The Convergence is guided at the elite levels of economic and political power, with the solitary goal of bringing the entire world under its control. With unprecedented technologies, and the support of dark powers from the Abyss, the Convergence looks unstoppable to Benedict Darwin, the An-Ki, and many others who struggle in a rapidly collapsing society. Provocative and engaging, the series enjoys a growing and loyal audience.

The fourth title of the projected seven book series is slated for the fourth quarter of 2012.

All of the Rising Dawn Saga books are available in softcover and a variety of eBook formats including the Kindle, Nook, iBookstore, and Sony-Compatible ePub options. The series has also inspired The Annals of the Rising Dawn, a new short story eBook series initiated with the recent release of Temples Rising. The short stories are set within the world unveiled in the Rising Dawn Saga.

For further information, and links to press and reviews, visit www.seventhstarpress.com. Matthew Perry's site can be found at www.perrypixel.com and Stephen Zimmer's can be found at www.stephenzimmer.com


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Enjoy!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday (94)

Waiting On Wednesday was created by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!

This week's pick is called Cursed by Jennifer L. Armentrout.  There is a bit of a wait for this as it's not released until 18th September 2012!

Synopsis
Dying sucks--and high school senior Ember McWilliams knows firsthand. After a fatal car accident, her gifted little sister brought her back. Now anything Ember touches dies. And that, well, really blows.

Ember operates on a no-touch policy with all living things--including boys. When Hayden Cromwell shows up, quoting Oscar Wilde and claiming her curse is a gift, she thinks he’s a crazed cutie. But when he tells her he can help control it, she’s more than interested. There’s just one catch: Ember has to trust Hayden's adopted father, a man she's sure has sinister reasons for collecting children whose abilities even weird her out. However, she’s willing to do anything to hold her sister's hand again. And hell, she'd also like to be able to kiss Hayden. Who wouldn't?

But when Ember learns the accident that turned her into a freak may not've been an accident at all, she’s not sure who to trust. Someone wanted her dead, and the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she is to losing not only her heart, but her life. For real this time.

What are you waiting on?

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Interview with Andrew Cotto

Spellbound By Books would like to introduce Andrew Cotto, Author of The Domino Effect and Outerborough Blues which is due to be released later this year!

Without further ado.  Here are the interview questions!!

1. Where were you when the idea sparked for The Domino Effect?

I was actually in college, during a summer break. I was living in Boston and went on a date to see the film "Do the Right Thing." It was in an out of the way theater in a pretty bad neighborhood, and my date had driven us there in her shiny sports car. I was so stunned leaving the theater, thinking about how the events had affected me, how they sent my emotions spinning in a myriad of ways, that I didn't even bother to help my date deal with the fact that her car had been stolen (it also had a diamond ring - a family heirloom - in the glove compartment). So, while she went crazy, running around the parking lot, screaming for the police, I sat on the curb and started thinking about being a storyteller, and the events that came to me right then and there were memories of the ethnic conflict in my cousin's neighborhood in Queens...which is where THE DOMINO EFFECT begins. Of course, it was many, many years before I actually began writing the story, but it began that day. And, needless to say, that was the end of my relationship with that girl.

2. What was the easiest and hardest part of writing this?

The easiest part of writing Domino was coming up with the characters. I'd lived so many places in my life, places that were pretty distinct from one another; it was fairly easy to pick people whom I've known to base (usually quite roughly) the characters upon. In fact, I was able to create composites of numerous people I've known + a very healthy dose of my imagination. That part was easy and fun (the exception to this was Danny, but that's another story).

The hardest part was figuring out the narrative. I had characters and setting in place early on, but plot is hard. Of course our own narratives seems interesting to us, the writer - we're the ones creating it, we're invested (it's like watching your kid plays sports - he/she is always the best one out there...), but to imagine how an audience might react to the events is challenging. It takes practice finding the right set of events, and, believe me, I took a lot of shots at it - changing things probably 10 times before I finally got it right (at first, Terence was the main character, with Danny as a Nick Carraway-like narrator). And to finally get it right took all those plot reconstructions, a workshop at The New School, a paid consultation, one agent, and then finally some solid brainstorming with my second agent (Jennifer Carlson of Dunow, Carlson & Lerner). The final piece of the puzzle was Jennifer recommending that I read The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau Banks by E. Lockhart, which gave me the idea to make Danny a prankster.

3. Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

Publishing a book was far more work than I ever expected it to be. That said, the pride I feel is vast because of the amount of work I put into it. I take more from the perseverance than anything else. My children are proud (I gave my daughter a redacted version of Domino for her 10th birthday, and my son, who is five, always asks when he can read it). I'm not surprised by this fact, but I'm truly grateful for all of the support from my family and friends. It's been fun for all of us, something to talk about and use as an excuse to get together and party. The love and support makes it all worth it.

4. If your book was turned into the movie who would you pick to cast as Danny?

I think about this all the time (a few filmmakers are looking at it now). Sadly, I'm not aware of enough of today's young actors to figure out who would play Danny. Does Ralph Macchio have a teenage son? I always thought Mandy Moore would make a great Brenda, though she probably doesn't play teens anymore (though I bet she could). Thanks, Melissa, for dating me with that question :)

5. Where do you do most of your writing? (Feel free to include a pic of your writing space)

I do most of my work at home at a desk in my bedroom (not picture worthy), though I can focus anywhere with a computer and privacy. What I could never (ever) do is write at a coffee shop. I don't know how people get anything done, though I admire that they can.

6. Do you have a routine/quirky habits that help you to write?

I like to check my e-mail and browse the New York Times website for I begin writing. This way, I know nothing more important is going on in the world. Then I can write without distraction.

7. What would be your all time favourite book and/or movie and why?

I love The Great Gatsby. I've read it countless times and, above all the other wonderful attributes of the book, the narrative voice never fails to floor me.


8. Finish this sentence. ‘When I’m not writing or editing I’m…”

...teaching (a lot) and spending time with my family. We love food and wine and company (wish we had more time for all three).

10. Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven’t? What would your answer be?

I'm happy to be asked anything.


11. Are there any tips/advice/reading material you would like to share with aspiring writers?

Aspiring writers, obviously, need to write all the time, but they also need to share. Join workshops. Form writing groups. Take classes. It's a solitary act that needs outside input. Be brave. Take shots. Find mentors (avoid friends and family for feedback). Learn to use the criticism that resonates and toss out the rest (which will be the bulk of it). Also, writers need to study craft. There are a ton of books on writing by writers (I like The Modern Library Writer's Workshop by Stephen Koch). Read them carefully, like training manuals. Also, read story with great care. Read with a pen and mark down all the passages/plot movements/verbs/whatever-moves-you. Keep track of these things and allow them to inspire your own work. Don't steal. Borrow. Artists borrow from other artists. So, borrow. If you do it well, someone will certainly borrow from you.

12. You’re hosting a party in which you can invite anybody you like, (No limitations here, dead alive mythical etc) What theme would it be? Who would you bring? How do you think the night would turn out?

Wow. I could do a lot with this question, but for simplicities sake, I'd recreate the party I had last year for the release of Domino. It was at a performance space in Brooklyn, and about 100 of my closest friends and family were there. After I read, two of my favorite bands played while we hung out at the bar. It was so much fun and the only way to top it would be by having my mother there, sipping martinis. That would have been perfect. And if Muddy Waters showed up, that would have been OK, too.

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I'd like to say a big thank you to Andrew for taking the time out to answer my questions!  You can visit Andrew at www.andrewcotto.com, follow him on twitter, and on facebook!

Sunday, February 19, 2012

In My Mailbox (101)

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

For Review:

Somnium by Keri Lake (Halos #1)

Bought:

Nothing this week.

What did you get in your IMM this week?

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Signs of War by Gerard de Marigny + Giveaway

Title:  Signs of War
Author:  Gerard de Marigny
Genre:  Political Thriller/Geopolitical
Publisher:  JarRyJorNo Publishing
Publication Date:  14th November 2011
ISBN:  9781466453852
Stand alone or series:   Cris De Nero Book 2
Pages:  328 pages
Book Received from:  Gerard de Marigny
First Lines:  Utilizing his cover as an official of the Puertos del Litoral Central, SA1, should have made it easy for CIA Agent Felix Salazar to board the Iranian cargo vessel Talca.


Beware: Possible spoilers if you haven't read The Watchman of Ephraim!

Synopsis:
Former hedge fund manager, billionaire Cris De Niro and his new counter-terrorism firm, The Watchman Agency just prevented a nuclear attack on the city of Las Vegas, but not without cost.

Charley Santappia, the Agency’s Vice President of Operations sacrificed his life to save the city. While at Santappia’s funeral, a remorse-filled De Niro announces to his shocked staff that he needs to decide whether he wants to continue with their mission. In front of Santappia’s coffin, the squad leaders of The Watchman Agency’s paramilitary arm, ARCHANGEL, decide to raise one last toast to their fallen commander.

They’re joined by a ‘small man dressed in black’ who is something of a legend to members of the Special Forces. A Delta Forces hero turned rogue operative, respected as much as he was feared … enter Scipio, a very different type of warrior, but could he be the one to replace Santappia?

Back at The Watchman Agency’s headquarters, undercover CIA agent Felix Salazar shows up with a problem he brings to his old boss from Langley now the Agency’s V.P. of Intelligence Services, Michelle Wang. Salazar is convinced that Venezuela has just received a shipment of Iranian medium-range missiles and he thinks he’s tracked the missiles to a Venezuelan port closest to the United States.

De Niro and company decide to get involved, sending Salazar back to Venezuela to investigate with a fire team from ARCHANGEL as backup. There is also more strange activity at the border. Soldiers of Tuco Ramirez’s Pacifico Drug Cartel have been infiltrating en masse onto the Tohono O’odham reservation. This time, Bryan Ahiga head of the legendary DHS/ICE Shadow Wolves doesn’t have his border patrol unit to patrol the tribal lands, so he asks De Niro if his team could lend a hand.

At the same time, De Niro is contacted by his old friend, David Nicholls. The usually incorrigible British playboy is frantic. He just found out that his dear friends were kidnapped by Somali pirates aboard their yacht, and he wants De Niro and his people to rescue them. De Niro is hesitant to offer assistance, but Scipio proposes to take care of it, as long as he can borrow Santana, De Niro’s newly battle-equipped mega-yacht and her crew.

The Watchman Agency is spread thin and, once again, on their own! Cris De Niro & The Watchman Agency return to deal with Somali pirates, an imminent threat from an Iranian/Venezuelan alliance and a Mexican drug cartel’s plot of immense proportions. These are the SIGNS of WAR …



My Thoughts:
The second book in the Cris de Nero series has definitely outdone the first. I loved this book from start to finish. It's complex and full of technical jargon and with the footnotes to explain, it really comes to life.

Cris and his team embark on another adventure of high stakes, and include the cast from the first book as well as a few new additions to the team. Valued additions I might add too.

We're introduced to CIA Agent Felix Salazar right at the beginning and find out that he discovers something isn't quite right at a Port in Venezuela.  With his suspicions he contacts his superior and is told that he's not authorised to investigate it.  With this dismissal Felix decides to take things into his own hands.
While this is happening all the way over in Virginia Cris de Nero and his team are standing in the cemetery burying one of the valued team members.

As always I love how both The Signs of War and The Watchman of Ephraim are written.  Above each chapter it informs us where in the country/world this particular scenes take place, the time and the date, giving us a real good idea of what is happening when.

There was one paragraph that really stuck out for me though.  It's in chapter 2, page 9.  It goes through each of the watchman agency members and it includes their full name rank, nickname and which unit.  There was so much information that I thought my brain was going to have an overload!  Later on in the novel it got easier to identify who was who but I think this was a bit too full on for the average reader like me to remember.  I did remember some of the members from the first one but it was a tad bit full on.  BUT in saying that, that was the only issue I had.

Gerard de Marigny managed to wow me again with his second instalment in the Cris De Nero novel!  Not once did I feel I was reading a fiction book.  It was like I was there standing alongside the members of the team.  There's so much action going on all over the world including Venezuela, Virginia, Arizona, The Carribean sea, that it amazes me how much knowledge Gerard must have with different countries!  It certainly feels like I can actually see the places he describes.  It's awesome!



Fave Line:   "'Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'" Page 14, "Those containers are airtight.  We'll all die!" .. "I see your point." ... opened up with his rifle, spraying bullets through the two walls of the container.  "It's not airtight anymore."  I loved those bits.  Totally awesome!

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Giveaway Time:

One Copy of Signs of War by Gerard de Marigny

Open International!
Closes 18th March 2011

All you need to do is comment below and check back on the 19th for me to announce the winner!!

Friday, February 17, 2012

TGIF (16) Book Blogger Pride


TGIF is a weekly feature created and hosted by Ginger at GReads! that re-caps the week’s posts and has different question each week.


This Friday's Question:
Book Blogger Pride: What do you take pride in when it comes to blogging?

Tough question.  I still feel like a new blogger, learning the ropes still.. even after two years at blogging.  I take pride in the reviews I write, as tough and time consuming that they can be, and I'm glad that my thoughts on books may help someone decide whether they'd like to give a particular book a try.  I also take pride in making my reviews Spoiler Free.. and warning readers before they get to a bit that may contain little giveaways in the review.

The biggest and best things about this blog are the people that take the time to pop in to have a look, the Authors, some who I've met and others that have taken the time to contact me and participate on the blog, the fellow bloggers I share this awesome community with.  I never would have dreamed two years ago that I'd meet so many awesome people that would share a love of books like me!

I'm also proud to say that I'm an Aussie Book Blogger, aye Lol,

This weeks posts:


What do you take pride in??

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Spellbound Noticeboard (24)



Welcome to Spellbound Noticeboard. Here is where Authors, Bloggers and others can send in anything that you'd like promoted. Competitions, book releases, blog events etc. This is your spot! So feel free to send me a line if you have anything book related (Including books made into movies) and I'll be sure to post these up! I'll also be including features etc that I come across to help spread the word for other Authors and bloggers! Just email me at melissa@spellboundbybooks.com 


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Seventh Star Press is proud to unveil 2 new Matthew Perry illustrations and the start of pre-orders for Michael West's urban fantasy novel Poseidon's Children, Book One of the Legacy of the Gods series.

 

The new urban fantasy series is Michael's second with Seventh Star Press, following the extremely successful release of Cinema of Shadows, his latest Harmony Indiana novel, in 2011. The Legacy of the Gods series is set to build rapidly upon Michael's horror readership, introducing his well-crafted storytelling to urban fantasy audiences everywhere.

Increasingly recognized for the high quality of its limited hardcover editions, Seventh Star Press is making available a new pre-order offer that allows readers and collectors to secure both a collectible, signed hardcover of Poseidon's Children (out of a run of just 75 copies), as well as an eBook version suited for their particular eReaders (Kindle or Nook editions will be "gifted" by Seventh Star Press on the day of release).

The bundle of a hardcover and eBook edition is accompanied by a sharp set of glossy 5X7 art cards, featuring the interior illustrations found in Poseidon's Children, as well as bookmarks from the novel and a set of thee collectible magnets. The price for the hardcover/eBook bundle and extras is one readers will find very attractive at just $32.95. The hardcovers (and pre-ordered softcovers) will be signed and numbered by Michael on Saturday, March 17 and shipped out on the 19th.

The illustrations for Poseidon's Children were created by highly acclaimed fantasy/horror artist Matthew Perry, who also does the artwork for Michael's Harmony Indiana Novels with Seventh Star Press. The Poseidon's Children project also reunited Michael with his Cinema of Shadows editor, Amanda DeBord.



In Poseidon's Children, man no longer worships the old gods; forgotten and forsaken, they have become nothing more than myth and legend. But all that is about to change. After the ruins of a vast, ancient civilization are discovered on the ocean floor, Coast Guard officers find a series of derelict ships drifting in the current--high-priced yachts and leaking fishing boats, all ransacked, splattered in blood, their crews missing and presumed dead.

And that's just the beginning.

Vacationing artist Larry Neuhaus has just witnessed a gruesome shark attack, a young couple torn apart right before his eyes ... at least, he thinks it was a shark. And when one of these victims turns out to be the only son of Roger Hays, the most powerful man in the country, things go from bad to worse. Now, to stop the carnage,Larry and his new-found friends must work together to unravel a mystery as old as time, and face an enemy as dark as the ocean depths.

Michael West is fresh from a great reception of his first Seventh Star Press release, the Harmony Indiana novel Cinema of Shadows. His other works include novels such as The Wide Game (Graveside Tales) and a single author collection, Skull Full of Kisses (Graveside Tales). He also has an array of short fiction published, spanning many magazines and anthologies, including appearances in Shroud Magazine, and the Apex Science Fiction and Horror Digest.


Poseidon's Children will be released in limited hardcover, trade paperback, and several eBook formats, such Kindle, iPad, the Nook, and Sony/Sony compatible eBook reading devices. The second novel in the series is slated for the spring of 2013, with other two planned titles to follow on an annual basis.

Updates and additional information can be obtained at the official site for Seventh Star Press, at www.seventhstarpress.com, or at the author's site, www.bymichaelwest.com


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Hope you enjoy!!

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday (93) + Pre-Order Giveaway

Waiting On Wednesday was created by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!

This week, since it's also the 2nd Blogoversary I've decided to pick a book I'm waiting on, and you will be given a chance to win a pre-order of that book on Book Depository!

So my pick for this week is What She Left Behind by Tracy Bilen.  This is released 1st May 2012.

Synopsis
"Don't even think of leaving...I will find you," he whispered. "Guaranteed."
Sara and her mom have a plan to finally escape Sara's abusive father. But when her mom doesn't show up as expected, Sara's terrified. Her father says that she's on a business trip, but Sara knows he's lying. Her mom is missing--and her dad had something to do with it. Each day that passes, Sara's more on edge. Her friends know that something's wrong, but she won't endanger anyone else with her secret. And with her dad growing increasingly violent, Sara must figure out what happened to her mom before it's too late...for them both.


So for your chance to win What She Left Behind all you need to do is comment below and on the 29th February keep an eye out for me to announce the winner!
Open to everywhere that Book Depository ships to!!

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

2nd Blogoversary and Cover Reveal

Hi all!



You have read right!  Spellbound By Books is two years old as of today!!! I'd like to thank everyone who has participated, commented and contributed to the blog.  It is well and truly appreciated!

Over the next few days I hope to put up a few giveaways since it is well and truly overdue!!  So keep an eye out!

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Cover Reveal



The Indelibles bring you a one-of-a-kind young adult anthology! Sixteen original short stories, all from the point of view of our favorite male characters - some are old flames from our novels and some were dreamed up especially for this anthology.

Let these imminently crushable, swoon-worthy guys show you what romance looks like – in his eyes.

The contributors to In His Eyes include award winners, frequent “Top 100” placers, and hot 2011 debut authors.

In His Eyes is FREE at Smashwords, and $0.99 at Amazon and Barnes&Noble - hopefully to go free there as well by our release date 14th February for Valentines Day. Or you can add In His Eyes to your TBR list on Goodreads.


For more information about The Indelibles, check out our blog, facebook page, or follow us on Twitter.

Stories included in the Anthology:

Surprise, Surprise by Stacey Wallace Benefiel, author of Glimpse: Half the women in Melody's family can see the future, which makes it nearly impossible for Raleigh to surprise her. What's a guy to do for Valentine's Day when his girlfriend is always one step ahead of him?

First Kiss or First Kill? by C.K. Bryant, author of Bound: Love isn't always rainbows and kittens, sometimes it can be downright deadly. (A deleted chapter from Bound.)

Shattered by Ali Cross, author of Become: James and Desi use each other in an effort to cling to the darkness in each of them, but in the end they discover that love changes you. (A chapter of Become from James’ POV.)

Before by Jessie Harrell, author of Destined: When a younger Eros is exiled to a land that doesn't believe in the Greek gods, he finds the first love of his immortal life. Read Eros' first person account of his romance, and heartbreak, in the time before he met Psyche.

The Qualm Before the Storm by Karen Amanda Hooper, author of Tangled Tides. Yara Jones doesn’t want to be a mermaid. Treygan doesn’t want to be the monster who turns her. You can’t always get what you want. (A short prequel to Tangled Tides.)

Unspeakable by S.R. Johannes, author of Untraceable: When Mo sees a strange girl in the woods, he follows her. He soon realizes they are both in a dangerous position and might not get out alive.

In the Beginning by Katie Klein, author of Cross My Heart: Seth is falling hard for Genesis Green, but the guardian angel is determined not to interfere, until an accident changes the course of their lives forever. (A short prequel to The Guardian.)

A Chance Encounter by Cheri Lasota, author of Artemis Rising: Finnian's eyes hide a terrible secret. But a girl on the train home, the girl in tears with a secret of her own...She sees right through him. A scene from the upcoming novel, Echoes in the Glass.

Family Bonds by Heather McCorkle, author of The Secret of Spruce Knoll: A Halloween party filled with teens who can channel energy and use it to kill, what could go wrong? For Spruce Knoll fans who are dying to read more about Fane.

Getting Closer by Lisa Nowak, author of Running Wide Open: Megan is smart, hot, and an upperclassman—in other words, way out of Cody’s league. So why did she choose him? (An excerpt of Getting Sideways.)

The Almost Assassin by Laura Pauling, author of A Spy Like Me, releasing Spring 2012: Malcolm tries his hand at the family business but his conscience and a beautiful "spy" may be his downfall.

Mind Games by Susan Kaye Quinn, author of Open Minds: Raf wants to take Kira—the only girl in school who doesn’t read minds—to the mindware Games, but his friends have other plans. (A short prequel to Open Minds.)

By The Firelight by Elle Strauss, author of Clockwise: When Nate McKenzie asks an unpopular girl to dance on a dare, he's in for the time of his life.

A Very Alien Valentine’s Day by Magan Vernon, author of How To Date An Alien: After surviving confinement and an intergalactic war for his human half, Alex, now he has to live through the biggest challenge of them all: Valentine's Day.

Aligned by RaShelle Workman, author of Exiled: A half-Eternal boy and an Eternal girl must free millions of tortured souls from a creature whose been feasting on their pain and suffering.

So what are you waiting for?  Go Check this out!


Sunday, February 12, 2012

In My Mailbox (100)

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

For Review:

N/A

Bought:
Pure by Julianna Baggott

Just one book for this week but I'm definitely looking forward to reading this.

What did you get in your IMM?

Friday, February 10, 2012

TGIF (15) Love Stories


TGIF is a weekly feature created and hosted by Ginger at GReads! that re-caps the week’s posts and has different question each week.


This Friday's Question:
Love Stories: What are some of your favorite fictional love stories?

Wow!  Good question.  Looking at my bookshelves now, the first one that I can't help but mentioning:

Claire and Shane, from the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine.  I absolutely love these two.  They've been through thick and thin, the ultimate strain on their relationship but they are still such a strong pair that I almost sigh!

Sam and Grace from The Wolves of Mercy Falls trilogy by Maggie Stiefvater.  It doesn't matter whether it's Shiver, Linger or Forever I loved each book and the way things happen in each.  I guess deep down it would have been nice to feel that kind of love as a teen.  (Showing my age?  I hope not lol)

I could keep going but I think I'll stop there.  One couple from The Hunger Games Trilogy would be mentioned here too but I may ruin it for other readers who haven't jumped onto this bandwagon yet :)


This Weeks Posts (From Saturday):
In My Mailbox (99) Bookless -Thrown a question in instead!


The Domino Effect by Andrew Cotto

Author:  Andrew Cotto
Genre:  Young Adult
Publisher:  Brownstone Editions
Publication Date:  29th April 2011
ISBN:  9780615479675
Stand alone or series:   Stand Alone
Pages:  238 pages
Book Received from:  Andrew Cotto (Author)
First Lines:  A famous writer once said that anybody who survives childhood has enough stories to tell for the rest of their lives.

Synopsis:
The Domino Effect is the story of Danny Rorro, a charismatic kid from Queens poisoned by the past. A series of painful defeats have left him scarred and isolated from his neighborhood, his parents, and, most significantly, the benevolent ways of his childhood when he was known as “Domino.” With great insight, imagery and wit, Danny recalls his past in Queens and his coming-of-age at Hamden Academy. This fast paced and powerful story is rich with conflict, humor, tenderness and music—just like life, especially when coming-of-age.



My Thoughts:
The prologue in this has got to be one of the shortest I think I've ever read, but the most powerful.  It had me wanting to start Danny's story fast and I'm glad I did.

The first part of the book is split up into three chapters, for the first three years of high school for Danny and after reading the third year I had nothing but sympathy for him.  Danny is one of those characters I warmed up straight away to, his witty comments and actions really hooked me in.

The story itself, for me, wasn't fast paced.  In saying that, I still found myself quite invested in Danny's story.  There were a few times I was shaking my head at him, and I'm sure those of you that have read this will know which one .. but I couldn't help but smirk at this particular incident.  Gross but kinda funny. lol  And the way Danny realizes he's overstepped the mark is good too.

I like the way Andrew has captured Danny's feelings on his love interest thought I won't go into specifics.  I think we've all been there at one point or another and it felt quite real to me reading how Danny deals with it.

This was a great coming of age read for a young Italian boy figuring his life out and dealing with his past issues.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Night Beach by Kirsty Eagar Book Trailer

I really can't wait to read this book.  Doesn't the trailer look awesome!!




Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday (92)

Waiting On Wednesday was created by Jill over at Breaking The Spine. It's a weekly post for you to share what upcoming books you can't wait for!

I quickly added Yesterday by C.K. Kelly Martin to my TBR List.  The cover is absolutely awesome!  This one won't be out until 25th Septemer 2012 though.

Synopsis
THEN: The formation of the UNA, the high threat of eco-terrorism, the mammoth rates of unemployment and subsequent escape into a world of virtual reality are things any student can read about in their 21st century textbooks and part of the normal background noise to Freya Kallas's life. Until that world starts to crumble.

NOW: It's 1985. Freya Kallas has just moved across the world and into a new life. On the outside, she fits in at her new high school, but Freya feels nothing but removed. Her mother blames it on the grief over her father's death, but how does that explain the headaches and why do her memories feel so foggy? When Freya lays eyes on Garren Lowe, she can't get him out of her head. She's sure that she knows him, despite his insistence that they've never met. As Freya follows her instincts and pushes towards hidden truths, the two of them unveil a strange and dangerous world where their days may be numbered. Unsure who to trust, Freya and Garren go on the run from powerful forces determined to tear them apart and keep them from discovering the truth about their shared pasts (and futures), her visions, and the time and place they really came from.

Pre-order Yesterday at Book Depository now!

What are you waiting on?

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Title:  Born Wicked
Author:  Jessica Spotswood
Genre:  Young Adult/ Fantasy
Publisher:  Penguin (Imprint: Razorbill)
Publication Date:  28th January 2012
ISBN:  9780141342108
Stand alone or series:   #1 in The Cahill Witch Chronicles
Pages:  304 pages
Book Received from:  Penguin Australia (Publisher)
First Lines:  Our mother was a witch, too, but she hid it better.

Synopsis:To me, the magic feels like a curse. According to the Brothers, it's devil-sent. Women who can do magic-they're either mad or wicked. So I will do everything in my power to protect myself and my sisters. Even if it means giving up my life - and my true love.
Because if the Brothers discover our secret, we're destined for the asylum, or prison . . . or death.



My Thoughts:
I think the very first thing that I noticed and loved of this book (Apart from the cover!) was the way the first page in each chapter had a border around it.  I haven't picked up too many books where that has been done and I guess it made for a nice change.

I hate to say it but the first 60 or so pages were a bit boring for me.  Cate came across as too safe, too bland for my liking. It wasn't until about page 62 where Paul pops onto the scene that things seem to spice up a bit. I guess that's another thing I've realised with my reading,  I'm looking forward to the romance in YA books more and more.  I don't need to have them in ALL books but it sure shakes things up.

Once Paul is on the scene I began warming up to Cate.  But the funny thing is, I disliked Paul.  His "Your Mine" attitude doesn't sit well with me.  With the setting and the characters in the book, this is how life was for them but it didn't do Paul any favours.

While the beginning started slow I have to admit it did set the scene for the rest of the story.  The Brothers, an organization of all men run the town, and keep everybody in line.  They are also the members who find and deal with suspected and real witches and dish out their punishments as they see fit.  So it's no surprise for Cate and her sisters that they have to keep a low profile but when their father suggests they bring a Governess into the house to prep the girls for coming of age, this really turns things topsy turvy.

I won't say too much else because I don't want to ruin it for everyone else, but if you pick this book up and find the beginning a tad bit slow, stick with it because I found once Cate's childhood friend is on the scene things get alot more interesting.  I can't wait to see where this series is getting.  

Fave Line:  "That's the saddest thing I've heard all day... Reading is the perfect escape from whatever ails you."  - page 108

Sunday, February 5, 2012

In My Mailbox (99) Bookless

In My Mailbox is a weekly post created by The Story Siren.

For Review:

N/A

Bought:

N/A

This week was a very quiet one.  So I decided to throw a question out to all of you.

Out of all the books you have read so far this year what is your favourite and why?  Would you recommend?

Hope everyone's had a good weekend.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

The Case of the Desperados by Caroline Lawrence Book Trailer


I really like this book trailer. It must be the music! That and not sure I've read a YA western before? lol

What do you think?

Friday, February 3, 2012

TGIF (14) Book Appeal


TGIF is a weekly feature created and hosted by Ginger at GReads! that re-caps the week’s posts and has different question each week.


This Friday's Question:
Book Appeal: When you're browsing goodreads, the library, or another blogger's reviews, what grabs your attention to make you want to read it?

I won't lie here.  A good eye catching cover is the first and foremost thing for me.  Bright covers usually win hands down for me but covers that are tastefully done definitely grab my attention.  An unusual title is another reason I'd pick a book up.

Three Examples of covers and titles that have won me over:

 

Blink and Caution by Tim Wynne-Jones
Between by Jessica Warman

These three books were bought by either cover or title.  Blink and Caution was both, The Registrar's Manual for Detecting Forced Marriages won me over by the title for sure, and Between was the cover alone.

When I'm usually out and about and I encounter a book where I'm on the fence, I'll quickly jump onto Goodreads just to see the star rating and a quick review.  If the star rating is over 4 I'll buy it, but if it's lower, I'll skim read a review here and there to see if it's up my alley.

I usually read bloggers reviews if I'm at home and can't decide which books I want to order next.  I tend to frequent a few popular blogs, usually the ones who have similar tastes to mine before I decide to buy, or skim over.

This Weeks Posts (From Saturday):


When you're browsing goodreads, the library, or another blogger's reviews, what grabs your attention to make you want to read it?

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Spellbound Noticeboard (23)



Welcome to Spellbound Noticeboard. Here is where Authors, Bloggers and others can send in anything that you'd like promoted. Competitions, book releases, blog events etc. This is your spot! So feel free to send me a line if you have anything book related (Including books made into movies) and I'll be sure to post these up! I'll also be including features etc that I come across to help spread the word for other Authors and bloggers! Just email me at melissa@spellboundbybooks.com 


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Double Cover Reveal!


Touch of Death by Kelly Hashway
Jodi Marshall isn't sure how she went from normal teenager to walking disaster. One minute she's in her junior year of high school, spending time with her amazing boyfriend and her best friend. The next she's being stalked by some guy no one seems to know.

After the stranger, Alex, reveals himself, Jodi learns he's not a normal teenager and neither is she. With a kiss that kills and a touch that brings the dead back to life, Jodi discovers she's part of a branch of necromancers born under the 13th sign of the zodiac, Ophiuchus. A branch of necromancers that are descendents of Medusa. A branch of necromancers with poisoned blood writhing in their veins.

Jodi's deadly to the living and even more deadly to the deceased. She has to leave her old, normal life behind before she hurts the people she loves. As if that isn't difficult enough, Jodi discovers she's the chosen one who has to save the rest of her kind from perishing at the hands of Hades. If she can't figure out how to control her power, history will repeat itself, and her race will become extinct.

Title: Touch of Death
Author: Kelly Hashway
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press (www.SpencerHillPress.com)
ISBN: 978-1-937053-30-7
Release Date: January 2013
List Price: $12.95
Formats: Trade Paperback, e-book
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal

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PODs by Michelle Pickett
Seventeen-year-old Eva is a chosen one. Chosen to live, while others meet a swift and painful death from an incurable virus so lethal, a person is dead within days of symptoms emerging. In the POD system, a series of underground habitats built by the government, she waits with the other chosen for the deadly virus to claim those above. Separated from family and friends, it's in the PODs she meets David. And while true love might not conquer all, it's a balm for the broken soul.

After a year, scientists believe the population has died, and without living hosts, so has the virus. That's the theory, anyway. But when the PODs are opened, survivors find the surface holds a vicious secret. The virus mutated, infecting those left top-side and creating... monsters.

Eva and David hide from the infected in the abandoned PODs. Together they try to build a life--a new beginning. But the infected follow and are relentless in their attacks. Leaving Eva and David to fight for survival, and pray for a cure.

Title: PODs
Author: Michelle Pickett
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press (www.SpencerHillPress.com)
ISBN: 978-1-937053-28-4
Release Date: June 2013
List Price: $12.95
Formats: Trade Paperback, e-book
Genres: Young Adult, Sci-Fi, Thriller

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Enjoy!

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