{Guest Post} {Review} When the World Was Flat

Looking back, I wonder if I had an inkling that my life was about to go from ordinary to extraordinary.

When sixteen-year-old Lillie Hart meets the gorgeous and mysterious Tom Windsor-Smith for the first time, it’s like fireworks — for her, anyway. Tom looks as if he would be more interested in watching paint dry; as if he is bored by her and by her small Nebraskan town in general.

But as Lillie begins to break down the walls of his seemingly impenetrable exterior, she starts to suspect that he holds the answers to her reoccurring nightmares and to the impossible memories which keep bubbling to the surface of her mind — memories of the two of them, together and in love.

When she at last learns the truth about their connection, Lillie discovers that Tom has been hiding an earth-shattering secret; a secret that is bigger — and much more terrifying and beautiful — than the both of them. She also discovers that once you finally understand that the world is round, there is no way to make it flat again. 

An epic and deeply original sci-fi romance, taking inspiration from Albert Einstein’s theories and the world-bending wonder of true love itself.

Guest Post: Inspiration Is All Around

It struck me the other day that all four of my books are set in the country, not the city. I think it is a result of my surroundings growing up.

I was born in a city (see photographic evidence of my brothers and I on Sydney Harbour), but grew up surrounded by nature, both on the coast and in regional Australia.

I spent a lot of my childhood on the coast and surfed through my teen years (I now live about two hours from the coast, so my surfboard is gathering dust!).

Most of my childhood was spent inland though in small towns or farming communities.

You only have to look at the poetry I wrote as a child to see the effect this had on me.

For example:

The Willow Tree

The willow tree stands by the river;

Where the bluebells and buttercups quiver.

They're amazed by the sight;

Of the fairies delight;

When the sparrows fly hither and thither.

The Raven

The raven sits in a tall, tall tree;

With its black head under its wing.

Yes, there it sits and there it stays;

Until once again comes spring.

The illustrations in my first book – a picture book called A Lot of Things show a farm with horses and cockatoos (very Australian). And my Frank Frankie novels are set in a small town, which Frankie referred to as being 'In the Sticks'.

When the World was Flat (and we were in love) is also set in a small town – a fictional town in Nebraska called Green Grove. A description of the town is as follows:

We all hated Green Grove. For three quarters of the year it was flat and brown, for the other quarter it was waist deep in snow, which made its name as misleading as the sign that declared it the gateway to the renowned wine region, the Open Valley. We were more like a backdoor, or even a cat flap, to the rolling vineyards which grew, out of place, next to our desert-like town. Even the flowers in Main Street had died two months after they were planted…

I think my stories lend themselves to being told in a country town, where gossip runs rampant and everyone knows everyone else. I describe this in When the World was Flat (and we were in love):

Green Grove, Nebraska, has a population of four thousand, six hundred and something, which results in about two degrees of separation between the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker.

When I wrote about Green Grove, I pictured a town I grew up in here in Australia called Kurri Kurri, which is next to the world-famous wine region, The Hunter Valley.

I now live in a city - the capital of Australia in fact. But I am not sure my stories will become citified anytime soon given it is known as the Bush Capital. There are kangaroos on almost every corner!

This was such a great and wonderful book to read!

"*I received a copy of this book for free to review, this in no way influenced my review, all opinions are 100% honest and my own."

Giveaway Details and Widget

Enter below for your chance to win one of two awesome prize packages as part of the Around the World in 80 Days Blog Tour for When the World was Flat (and we were in love) by Ingrid Jonach. 

There will be two winners worldwide. Each prize package includes:

·      a signed copy of When the World was Flat (and we were in love)

·      a pair of silver plated key-shaped earrings in a When the World was Flat (and we were in love) gift box

·      a When the World was Flat (and we were in love) bookmark.

The competition will run until 21 October 2013 and the winners will be announced on this page and via www.ingridjonach.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway

{Review} The Circle of Thirteen

In 2082, a catastrophic explosion rocks the dedication ceremony of the new United Nations in New York City. Security Director Julia Moro is on the job, chasing after the misogynistic leader of Patria, a long-disbanded international terrorist organization now being whispered about again on the streets. This dangerous, shadowy figure has been linked to several bombing attempts and vicious attacks on women, including the Women of Peace—an organization headed by thirteen bold women who have risked their lives to restore worldwide peace. As Julia’s investigation unfolds, a deep secret from her past threatens to strip her of everything she cherishes and plunge her into unrecoverable darkness.

The Circle of Thirteen's gripping narrative weaves back and forth in time, from an act of domestic violence that created the disturbed personality of the Patria mastermind, to the two weeks leading up to the bombing at the UN, to events half a century before the bombing that directly influence it. The strong, relatable women and the unbreakable bond between them provide an emotionally grounded window into the future’s unforgettable history.

Reviews that say it all! 

“The Circle of Thirteen is a remarkable tale, nothing less than visionary account of a new world order, fascinating and provocative.” —John Lescroart, NYT bestselling author of The Thirteenth Juror

“A wonderful, uplifting thriller full of strong and unforgettable women, a book that will keep you turning the page.” —Abraham Verghese, NYT bestselling author of Cutting for Stone

“We open the door upon a world so near to our own—and yet so far. A fantastic, futuristic view of the reality that we may already have created.” —Katherine Neville, international bestselling author of The Eight

“In The Circle of Thirteen, Bill Petrocelli has created a story that flashes forward and backward through time, creating a futuristic world that bears some striking similarities to today. The Circle of Thirteen is a true celebration of the power of women in the face of great odds.” —Lisa See, #1 NYT bestselling author of Dreams of Joy and Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

“A unique and thoughtful thriller.” —Martin Cruz Smith, NYT bestselling author of Gorky Park and December 6

"Book Passage co-owner Bill Petrocelli is making his BEA debut as a novelist with The Circle of Thirteen (Turner, Oct.), set in a future world threatened by a terrorist sect; the identity of its misogynistic leader will call everything the protagonist believes into question as she races to prevent a bombing. The buzz from booksellers who have read galleys of The Circle of Thirteen they picked up at Wi8: 'It's a really good read.'" —PW Daily 05/22/13

{Review} The Dark Unwinding @CameronSharonE

When Katharine Tulman’s inheritance is called into question by the rumor that her eccentric uncle is squandering away the family fortune, she is sent to his estate to have him committed to an asylum. But instead of a lunatic, Katharine discovers a genius inventor with his own set of rules, who employs a village of nine hundred people rescued from the workhouses of London. Katharine is now torn between protecting her own inheritance and preserving the peculiar community she grows to care for deeply. And her choices are made even more complicated by a handsome apprentice, a secretive student, and fears for her own sanity. As the mysteries of the estate begin to unravel, it is clear that not only is her uncle’s world at stake, but also the state of England as Katharine knows it.

› Visit Amazon's Sharon Cameron Page

Biography

Sharon Cameron was awarded the 2009 Sue Alexander Most Promising New Work Award by the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators for her debut novel, The Dark Unwinding. When not writing Sharon can be found thumbing dusty tomes, shooting her longbow, or indulging in her lifelong search for secret passages. She lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee.

Visit her website at sharoncameronbooks.com

I tried 5 times to read this one.  But, each time I found myself falling asleep.  After giving it to a friend whom read the entire thing.  I found that I was correct.  That although this book has a very good plot and an even wonderful ending.  The story is slow as molasses and just does not grab the reader.  If the book would have been more fast paced I think it would have been more enjoyable.

"This book was purchased by me via Amazon.com"

{Review} {Giveaway} Melanie Dobson book giveaway!

{MORE ABOUT THE COURIER OF CASWELL HALL}

An unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution.

As the British and Continental armies wage war in 1781, the daughter of a wealthy Virginia plantation owner feels conflict raging in her own heart. Lydia Caswell comes from a family of staunch Loyalists, but she cares only about peace. Her friend Sarah Hammond, however, longs to join the fight. Both women’s families have already been divided by a costly war that sets father against son and neighbor against neighbor; a war that makes it impossible to guess who can be trusted.

One snowy night Lydia discovers a wounded man on the riverbank near Caswell Hall, and her decision to save him will change her life. Nathan introduces her to a secret network of spies, couriers, disguises, and coded messages—a network that may be the Patriots’ only hope for winning the war. When British officers take over Caswell Hall and wreak havoc on neighboring plantations, Lydia will have to choose between loyalty and freedom; between her family’s protection and her own heart’s desires.

As both armies gather near Williamsburg for a pivotal battle, both Lydia and Sarah must decide how high a price they are willing to pay to help the men they love.

Part of the American Tapestries™ series: Each standalone novel in this line sets a heart-stirring love story against the backdrop of an epic moment in American history. This is the fifth book in the series.

Purchase a copy here.

Learn more at Melanie’s website.

{MORE ABOUT MELANIE DOBSON}

Melanie Dobson is the author of twelve novels; her writing has received numerous accolades including two Carol Awards. Melanie worked in public relations for fifteen years before she began writing fiction full-time. Born and raised in the Midwest, she now resides with her husband and two daughters in Oregon.

Find out more about Melanie athttp://www.melaniedobson.com.

This book grabs you from the start and doesnt let go until the end.  This book had so much going on but the author doesnt over whelm you.  I read it in one day it was just that good.

"*I received a copy of this book for free to review, this in no way influenced my review, all opinions are 100% honest and my own."




  Melanie Dobson's latest release, The Courier of Caswell Hall, is a riveting story you won't want to miss. The newest offering in the American Tapestries™ series, it follows an unlikely spy who discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution.

Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!

  Five winners will receive:

• The Courier of Caswell Hall by Melanie Dobson

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 5th. All winners will be announced October 7th at the Litfuse blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 7th to see if you won one of the books!

{Review} Black Out @robisonwells

Laura and Alec are trained terrorists.

Jack and Aubrey are high school students.

There was no reason for them to ever meet.

But now, a mysterious virus is spreading throughout America, infecting teenagers with impossible powers. And these four are about to find their lives intertwined in a complex web of deception, loyalty, and catastrophic danger—where one wrong choice could trigger an explosion that ends it all.

This book releases today so go grab it!!

I was so happy when I got this book.  This one really reminds me of a few series but, this one stands on its own and is not really a repeat. If you love books that deal with the paranormal and mystery than this is deff.  the book for you.  Others like this book are Hemlock and The Darkest Minds.  

"*I received a copy of this book for free to review, this in no way influenced my review, all opinions are 100% honest and my own."

A New month!

Well hey guys!  I had a great week off!!  I am now no longer sick yay!  I feel great and am ready to get back into reviews.  So this coming month of Oct. You will see reviews for:

Blackout by Wells 

Witchstruck by Lamb

A Review for the entire Ashes Trilogy by Bick 

as well as a ton of other yummies coming your way!!  

Giveaways will be getting a face lift this month.  As I am still trying to figure out the best way to get them done.  

So just keep an eye out for them.  Both here and on our facebook page. 

Also another change that is happening is I have a new co blogger.  You will start seeing her reviews soon.  

This month for the Read On you will see a ton of new authors all with giveaways! 

Off Week

Hey guys!! Every year I take off one week to just be free of all the books I read. So this week is that week for this year. I will be moving the calendar here soon. So if you check the cal any reviews posting this week will be moved to next week. 

{Review} Free Spirit @JoshuaSafran

An Unforgettable Journey Through an Unconventional Childhood

When Joshua Safran was four years old, his mother--determined to protect him from the threats of nuclear war and Ronald Reagan--took to the open road with her young son, leaving the San Francisco countercultural scene behind. Together they embarked on a journey to find a utopia they could call home. In Free Spirit, Safran tells the harrowing, yet wryly funny story of his childhood chasing this perfect life off the grid--and how they survived the imperfect one they found instead.

Encountering a cast of strange and humorous characters along the way, Joshua spends his early years living in a series of makeshift homes, including shacks, teepees, buses, and a lean-to on a stump. His colorful youth darkens, however, when his mother marries an alcoholic and abusive guerrilla/poet.

Throughout it all, Joshua yearns for a "normal" life, but when he finally reenters society through school, he finds "America" a difficult and confusing place. Years spent living in the wilderness and discussing Marxism have not prepared him for the Darwinian world of teenagers, and he finds himself bullied and beaten by classmates who don't share his mother's belief about reveling in one's differences.

Eventually, Joshua finds the strength to fight back against his tormentors, both in school and at home, and helps his mother find peace. But Free Spirit is more than just a coming-of age story. It is also a journey of the spirit, as he reconnects with his Jewish roots; a tale of overcoming adversity; and a captivating read about a childhood unlike any other.

› Visit Amazon's Joshua Safran Page

Biography

Joshua Safran is an attorney, author, speaker, and occasional rabbi, and was featured in the award-winning documentary CRIME AFTER CRIME, which premiered at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and had its television debut on Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). He is a nationally recognized champion for women's rights and a zealous advocate for survivors of domestic violence and the wrongfully imprisoned. www.jsafran.com

To say that I devoured this one is an understatement!  I started and finished in a few hours as it was just that good!  Wonderful dialogue to comic descriptions this book is a must read!  This book will have you laughing and crying!  It is just a very inspiring read!  So get swept away and be a Free Spirit! 

"*I received a copy of this book for free to review, this in no way influenced my review, all opinions are 100% honest and my own."

"[A] beautiful, powerful memoir . This assured debut is reminiscent of David Sedaris's and Augusten Burroughs's best work: introspective, hilarious, and heartbreaking." --Publishers Weekly (starred)                                                                     "Haunting and beautifully written, Free Spirit draws you into the gritty, white-knuckle ride that was Joshua Safran's childhood. Spellbinding. A must-read." --Liz Murray, author of the New York Times bestseller Breaking Night "Rich in detail, humor, and compassion, Free Spirit is an eloquent coming-of-age story about a mother's well-intentioned, but flawed, search for utopia and the impact her chaotic journey had on her son. Thankfully, Joshua Safran emerges from his impoverished, rootless childhood resilient, resourceful, and wise. A transformative book." --Mira BartÓk , author of the National Book Critics Circle Award winnerThe Memory Palace "Some writers search everywhere for a great story, and others have a great story happen to them. Joshua Safran's tale of his upbringing among radicals, revolutionaries, and renegades is equal parts hilarious and touching. Strap yourself into the green bus for a whirlwind tour of the American underground through the eyes of an impressionable young storyteller-to-be." --Thomas Mullen, author of The Last Town on Earth "Joshua Safran's Free Spirit provides a mesmerizing coming-of-age story for one of the next generation's most inspired spiritual progressives." --Rabbi Michael Lerner, Editor, Tikkun & Chair, The Network of Spiritual Progressives "Free Spirit is a stranger-than-fiction look at an absolutely fascinating childhood." Sam Apple, author of Schlepping Through the Alps