WARRIOR'S MOON BLOG TOUR - READ AN EXCERPT + GIVEAWAY

Excerpt from Warrior’s Moon

Prologue 

 Isabella Kincraig knelt before a patch of mushrooms, reached to gather them and then was still.  The forest had suddenly become silent around her and the total absence of sound was a warning in itself.  Anxiousness held her as motionless as the deer she sometimes came upon as she gathered her herbs here in this wildest tangle of trees.  Completely still, she listened while she tried to sense what was wrong. 

Something was in the woods with her. The prickle on the back of her neck made her look around anxiously, but she saw nothing among the thickness of the understory.  Worried, she turned to wake her small daughter, Chantaya, who slept on a blanket on the moss while Isabella gathered her herbs, but Isabella was caught roughly from behind before she could reach her. 

Knowing instantly who it was, she stilled, worried she’d harm her unborn child if she fought him.  When he finally moved his hand from her mouth and turned her toward him, she wanted to slap his smiling face as she hissed quietly, “Let me go!  My husband will be furious!”

Young Lord Rosskeene simply smiled unconcernedly again.  “He wouldn’t dare try to challenge me and it’s well you know it.  I would see him hang.  Then you would be only more available to the admiration of a benevolent landlord like myself.”  His voice changed to an almost amiable cajoling sound.  “If you would only agree to be with me, Isabella, you’d find that I can be quite pleasant.  Even your husband would appreciate my generosity.  If you’d come work right in the manor house, I’d see to it that you made a much greater wage.” 

BOOK BLASTS & GIVEAWAY - INDIE AUTHORS NAKED

Indie Authors Naked

Indie Authors Naked explores and defines the world of independent publishing. Comprised of a series of essays and interviews by indie authors, booksellers and publishers, readers will get a look at the many aspects of the indie community, where publishing professionals of all types come together with the simple goal of creating something unique; something that speaks directly to the reader, no middleman necessary. Contributors include: James Franco, Hugh Howey, McNally Jackson Books, Sarah Gerard, OHWOW Books, Raine Miller, David Vinjamuri, Toby Neal, Rachel Thompson, Eden Baylee, Christoph Paul, Jessica Redmerski, Dan Holloway, Orna Ross and more.  

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ANITA B., A YOUNG WOMAN'S COURAGE IN A NEW MOVIE BY ROBERTO FAENZA - MY REVIEW

Today is the international Holocaust Remembrance Day and I've been glad and proud of our special school day: at the cinema with 150 students and some colleagues. A day we've prepared in our lessons in the last few days, a day not to forget and to build new hopes.

I've already posted about this movie by Roberto Faenza, Anita B.,   released only in our country, Italy, so far,  in limited theatres and in just a few cities. That's really a shame! I hope it'll get the attention it deserves, maybe when it gets to the US next summer. Lots of students are seeing it these days thanks to Anita B. Progetto Scuole: that's at least a very positive aspect for the promotion of the movie. 

I  also  read and reviewed the novel by Edith Bruck, on which the film is freely based, "Quanta stella c'è nel cielo." Someone who knows him well told me Roberto Faenza usually says: "Two fathers, two children". That means, books and the movies based on them must be considered for what they are: different art works by different artists. Faenza wrote the script in collaboration with the author of the novel, anyway. So we can imagine she agrees with the changes, the cuts and the additions. I personally liked all the director's choices, especially his rewriting Eli, the male protagonist. Impossible to like him, but in the film at least we are given reasons for his behaviour.

MUCH ADO ABOUT ... MY WEEKEND

It's been long since I last did so many different things in only one weekend!  But this weekend has truly been pretty busy and special.

On Saturday morning I was at school. What's so special for a teacher? Nothing but it is unusual for me, since Saturday is my day off. I had to be there since I was involved in a project and had to take part in two different meetings with two groups of our students to whom I  presented our "Project Anita B."  for the celebration of the International Holocaust Memorial Day (27th January). I'll tell you more about this possibly tomorrow.

BOOK BLAST & GIVEAWAY - RUBBER SOUL, THE ULTIMATE BEATLES STORY BY GREG KIHN

Rubber Soul by Greg Kihn

Greg Kihn is a rock star, seasoned radio host and author. Rubber Soul, his latest novel is inspired by intimate interviews that he conducted with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Pete Best, Yoko Ono and Patti Harrison. Though Rubber Soul is fiction, as Greg says it is “100% historically accurate” and an candid glimpse of the phenomenon that is The Beatles. Rubber Soul is a an innovation in the Rock Thriller genre, taking readers on a rollicking ride through The Beatles legacy from the early days in Liverpool to six sold out shows per night in Hamburg and full-fledged Beatlemania. Dust Bin Bob runs into some lads from Liverpool at his second hand shop on Penny Lane. The lads: John, Paul, George and Ringo and Dust Bin Bob become firm friends, sharing vinyl that will spark a revolution. Murder, mystery and Beatlemania mayhem ensues—with the boys narrowly avoiding an international incident and an attempted assassination. It’s the ultimate Beatles story that could have happened!  

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Praise “There’s no one more qualified to write a rock-and-roll novel than Greg Kihn. He’s the real deal and at his Kihntillating best in this book.” – Guy Kawasaki, former chief evangelist of Apple

BLOG TOUR + GIVEAWAY: PODIUM FINISH BY BETH POND

Tour Schedule

Podium Finish

With six months until the Olympic Games, seventeen-year-old Harper's life is pretty much perfect. She's fighting for the starting spot on Team USA Women's Hockey, and for the first time ever, she has a crush on a guy who likes her back. She feels like the luckiest girl in the world, until she runs a risky play at practice and breaks her knee, thereby sentencing herself to six weeks in a cast and possibly ending her Olympic dream before it even starts. For seventeen-year-old Alex, being anything less than the best is unacceptable. That's why, after a miserable debut season at the senior level, the former junior national singles champion switches to ice dance. Her skating partner, Ace, is an "all skating all the time" type of guy, which would be fine, if he'd stop keeping secrets about the real reason he and his former partner broke up. Now is not the time for second thoughts, but how can Alex skate her best if she can’t trust her partner…or herself? As the pressure to make the Olympic team builds, the girls must rely on each other, because if there’s one thing they both know, it's that the only thing harder than skating to the top is staying there.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ... LOVE SPELL BY STAN CROWE + WIN $25 AMAZON GIFT CARD

Tour Schedule

Love Spell Clint Christopherson’s love life is a running joke. When a crazed gypsy curses him with the best wish he could ever ask for, the punchline stops being funny. Now, even his barest touch drives girls mad for him. Desperate to reverse the curse, he turns to his last hope: an attractive private investigator who may be able to locate his missing gypsy. If only Clint knew who it was he just hired...

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Author Stan Crowe

 Stan had a pretty normal, middle-class American youth. He was lucky enough to change that by convincing an exceptional woman to marry him in 2000, setting him on a much more fulfilling life course. Four years later, Brigham Young University awarded him with a Bachelors of Science in civil and environmental engineering. He then he spent several years designing homes, prescribing work for bridges, and even exploring the mortgage industry. In the midst of all this, he produced two science fiction anthologies in 2006 and 2007. In 2012, Breezy Reads Publishing picked up his romantic comedy The Cinderella Project. And thus he transformed himself from Captain Kirk into Don Juan. Stan lives with his wife, children (final count to be determined) and two cats in Utah.

CATE TOWARD, MASTER OF THE MILL - A NORTH AND SOUTH VARIATION

Hello there! I’m Cate Toward, I’m a Brit, and the mum of two pretty damn amazing thirty something’s. I’m also the soppy housekeeper to aging Jack Russell’s. I got divorced twenty odd years ago, but my parent’s marriage taught me there is such a thing as romance, I just haven’t been that lucky, but the ‘trying’ has had its moments…

When I got my ‘adult’ library ticket at eleven, my father recommended the historical novels of Jean Plaidy. I read about Catherine de Medici, Lucrezia Borgia, and Catherine Parr. When I eventually ran out of JP titles, I discovered Frank Yerby, and life was never the same.

Now, when I read a book I want everything, I want to see life, I want people I can identify with, in situations that test them, I want to share their adventure, that’s what I try and write.

I wrote a North and South variation, Master of the Mill,  that Maria Grazia thought you may appreciate. That's why she invited me here.  I've got a little present for you. I hope you'll like it! 

Cate

READY FOR THE DUEL? THE MUSKETEERS VS MR SELFRIDGE

Dear classic and period drama lovers,

Have you enjoyed Downton Abbey latest season? And what about Death Comes to Pemberley? I really loved them both. Don't you feel a little bit orphaned after the smartest  Sherlock series ever on screen ended last Sunday?  Brilliant,  wasn't it?

Well, this is a blessed time for us. I don't know if we are allowed to hope it'll last long, since period and costume drama series cost quite a lot and even brilliant productions have been cut off  recently. Anyhow, let's seize the moment and stop worrying for what may come.

Just today a new costume series set in 17th century premieres on BBC One. D'Artagnan and his dashing musketteers are back, ready to refresh their roguish fame in the memory of old nostalgic fans as well as to capture the enthusiasm of young new adventure lovers. BBC One's  The Musketeers has been planned as a 10-episode series, was shot in Prague and is co-produced by BBC America.

Fancy a closer look to the new, charming, Sunday night heroes?

WHY EARLS FALL IN LOVE - INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR MANDA COLLINS

Hello and welcome at FLY HIGH,  Manda. It’s a great pleasure to have the chance to present you and your new spellbinding novel,   “Why Earls Fall in Love” to my readers, since they are always so interested in historical fiction!  Could you tell us something about your heroine,  Georgina?

Georgina Mowbray is the daughter of an Army officer. She’s also the widow of an Army officer. As such, she has been used to living a very structured lifestyle. And she is very firmly ensconced in the middle class. But, when she becomes friends with Isabella and Perdita—both wealthy aristocrats—she is thrust into the world of the ton. She still, however, must earn a living, so at the beginning of the book we see her in her new position as companion to the wealthy Lady Russell. Who just so happens to be the aunt of our hero—Dominic, Earl of Coniston.

Georgie is disciplined, level-headed, and above all resilient. She will bounce back no matter what befalls her.

Is she inspired to any other literary heroine you admire?

Not any one heroine in particular, no. But while I was writing, I kept thinking of her as being very similar to the real-life character of Florence Nightingale, who was also very disciplined and resilent. Though she had a very unhappy love life,  and I was happy to be able to improve on that.

BOOKS ON SCREEN: THE BOOK THIEF, THE FAULT IN OUR STARS, PHILOMENA

The Book Thief

The story of a young German girl who steals books, her family and the Jewish boxer hidden in their basement as they struggle to survive in Nazi Germany. Narrated by Death, it's an unusual and affecting story, and was the top selling debut literary hardback of 2007, with sales of over 193,000 copies. Now a 2013 film  produced by 20th Century Fox. 

Review quotes

"Extraordinary, resonant and relevant, beautiful and angry." -- Lisa Hilton Sunday Telegraph 

'Unsettling, thought-provoking, life affirming... this is a novel of breathtaking scope, masterfully told.'  The Guardian 

PICTURING THE STARS - INTERVIEW WITH SARAH DUNN

Sarah Dunn directing The Hobbit cast

She meets and photographs the movie stars we all admire. She manages to capture very special smiles, looks, intense expressions and beautiful moments. Have you seen her photos of the Potter cast, the Hobbit cast, Tom Hiddleston, Benedict Cumberbatch,  Helen Mirren, Cate Blanchett, Tom Hanks, Jamie Campbell Bower, Shailene Woodley and more? Have a look at her site! I bet you've seen her photos on the covers of the most important magazines. 

I  did and thought: "Sarah Dunn must know things about those people which nobody else knows". I was so curious that... I dared ask. And Sarah Dunn was kind enough to answer. She was very professional, no gossiping!  Here's the interview. 

Well , Sarah, first of all thank you very much indeed for taking the time to answer my questions. Where to start an interview with you? What about a quote? Karl Lagerfeld said, “What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.” 

What do you, Sarah, like in photographs?  

Drama and emotion

MOVIE REVIEW - THE HUNGER GAMES, CATCHING FIRE

(by guest blogger Paul Smith) 

Catching Fire is the second part of the Hunger Games trilogy, produced by Lionsgate and directed by Francis Lawrence. Based on Suzanne Collins' novel, this film was released in November 2013.  Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson played such main characters as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark. It is a dystopian, science fiction movie with disturbing and uplifting plot at the same moment. The story is immensely emotional, dramatic and exciting. Many important political events and strategies are performed here. The various expensive special effects were used during film’s production in order to make it more engaging and attractive. The topic is of a real current interest, because everyday a lot of people become pawns in their lives as well as our heroes do. Catching Fire is much better than the first film. The director added more bright actors, unsurpassed action scenes and improved the quality of shooting.

BOOK BLAST - WARRIOR'S MOON BY JACLYN M. HAWKES + $ 50 AMAZON GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY

Warrior's Moon - Medieval Historical Romance by Jaclyn M. Hawkes 

Never in all the kingdom has there been a more brave and protective champion. Nor such a loyal and capable maiden. And they loved each other desperately. But is their love strong enough to withstand all their dark age holds—danger, feudalism, disease, and unfair oppression? Yes, they truly loved each other desperately. They loved their kingdom more.  

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THE DREAM KILLERS - BOOK BLAST & GIVEAWAY

The Dream Killers 

 “The Dream Killers” is geared for fans of “Once Upon a Time”. The first season (2013-2014) consists of 6 novellas called episodes. It follows River as he tries to escape the pirate Captain Bo, the guardians of the Sea of Dreams, the runners, the elders, and the master mechanics. Captain Bo is after the dreamnet that River stole from him. He uses it to capture dreams to power devices for all those who sail the Sea of Dreams. 

ROOK BLOG TOUR - INTERVIEW WITH STELLA MAC DONALD & GIVEAWAY

Hello and welcome to my corner of the blogosphere, Stella.  Congratulations on your amazing book, Rook, and thanks for accepting to answer my questions. Since I used to dream of becoming a writer myself, my first  one will be: Have you always wanted to become a writer? When did you start writing?

Yes and no.  I always wrote, but never planned to be a writer.  It seemed to big, too hard.  I thought I should do more traditional jobs, like be a doctor or something – even went pre-med for awhile.  But, ultimately, writing keeps me sane, and I love it, so that’s what I’m going to do.

What did you like to read as a child or a teenager?  

I loved Christopher Pike, and moved on pretty young to Dean Koontz.  I read grown up books for a long time before returning to YA.

What do you like most of being a writer?  

Most of the time you don’t get to control anything major about your life.  Add to that being so busy that you don’t have a chance to really discover yourself.  Writing, I get to pick everything that happens to everyone, as well as the reasons why. When I wax the most philosophical, it doesn’t take long before I realize I’m really just talking about myself.  I learn tons about myself that way.

YA FAIRIES & FANTASY GIVEAWAY HOP

Announcing the 3rd Annual

Young Adult Faeries & Fantasy Giveaway Hop

January 8th to 14th

One lucky winner will get their choice of ANY Faerie or Fantasy ebook under $10 from amazon.com Kindle Store! This contest is open INTERNATIONALLY. 

Please share the title of the YA fantasy ebook you'd like to win in your comment and tell us why you want to read it. That would be  a precious occasion to learn about new interesting authors and their works. 

BOOK BLAST & GIVEAWAY - THE COLONY BY CAMI CHECKETTS

 The Colony by Cami Checketts 

To protect her sons from the mistakes of her past, Brinlee Trapper escapes to a secluded mountain home. But there are dangers lurking in the mountains she has never encountered. The little family is saved from injury by Jed, a mysterious hunter. Brinlee is drawn to him, but she worries about his involvement with a peaceful commune hidden deep in the mountains behind her property. Lance, Brinlee’s attentive neighbor, has his own troubled history. Between his obvious attraction to Brinlee and his developing love for her children, Brinlee finds it more than difficult to guard her heart against this tender intrusion. While Jed offers a life of excitement and freedom, Lance holds the key to the family Brinlee always wanted. When it comes time to choose, she learns that both men have secrets that could shatter her fledgling trust in men and the wrong decision could leave more than her heart exposed to danger.  

LET THE MUSIC COME ALIVE - MERCY RIVER BLOG TOUR & GIVEAWAY

On the heels of their hit album Higher, Mercy River is back with mesmerizing harmonies and upbeat vocal arrangements. Their new album features inspirational favorites and original songs that highlight the talents of this singing sisterhood. Sing It Out,  Speak Life, How Deep the Father's Love For Us, Walk You Through the Night, Who I Am, Holy Ground, Restless Reason, For the World,  Walking On Sunshine.

WORDS, WITCHES & WOES

A movie, a book and bits of my real life are the topics of my  first post in the New Year. Let's hope it is a good one, without any tears. What? ... Yes, those words are not mine.

1. A Movie: The Words 

Plagiarism, writing, life and fiction ...The Words. I've seen this movie a few times in the latest weeks since it is running on my satellite TV channels. I was attracted by the title first and started watching it without knowing much about cast and plot. Positively surprised at discovering it was about writing, writers and books, I went on watching,  discovering one by one its protagonists: Dennis Quaid, Bradley Cooper, Jeremy Irons and Ben Barnes.

I liked it very much! Have you seen it?