{Review, Interview & Giveaway} Tell Me When by Stina Lindenblatt

Tell Me When
by Stina Lindenblatt
Source: Provided by Publisher
Available as of January 20, 2014
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Amber Scott should be enjoying life as a college freshman. She should be pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She should be working hard to make sense of her precalculus math class.

She shouldn’t be waking up her college roommate with screaming nightmares. She shouldn’t be flashing back, reliving the three weeks of hell she barely survived last year. And she definitely shouldn’t be spending time with sexy player Marcus Reid.

But engineering student Marcus is the only one keeping Amber from failing her math course, so she grudgingly lets him into her life. She never expects the king of hookups will share his painful past. Or that she’ll tell him her secrets in return, opening up and trusting him in a way she thought she’d never be able to again.

When their fragile future together is threatened by a stalker Amber thought was locked away for good, Marcus is determined to protect her. And Amber is determined to protect Marcus…even if that means pushing him away.

Overall Rating

Review

When I received an email asking if I would like to review this book, I jumped at it. I wanted to know why this girl woke up screaming in the middle of the night and why she had the nightmares. The idea of this story intrigued me and I had to read it. Stina Lindenblatt did a wonderful job hooking me from page one.

The two main characters, Amber and Marcus, are social opposites. Amber is a shadow of herself and isn't easily trusting of anyone. While Marcus had a rough childhood and has turned into a womanizer because of what he went though. Anyone could see how Amber's trust in Marcus would be nonexistent, yet they become close in the time they spend together.

The story itself was fantastic. I didn't expect some of the things that occurred, but I also guessed a lot of the gory details. I loved that we got to see everything from not just Amber's side, but Marcus's as well because they both have wounds that are trying to heal and to understand why one of them does something is heavily dependent on where their mind is at. This story wouldn't be nearly the same if we only got to see it from one side. I also enjoyed the supporting characters, specifically Amber's roommate. She was such an annoying little she-demon, but we find out why towards the end.

There are two things that I can think of off the top of my head that bothered me with this book. First, Marcus gives Amber a nickname... Kitten. Being the huge booknerd that I am, I recognize this nickname from The Perfect Game by J. Sterling. I don't want to say that other books can't use or incorporate the same nicknames that are used in other stories, but the first time I saw "Kitten" while reading I automatically thought of Jack and Cassie. Second, after reading, I never really understood why the story was titled "Tell Me When." Normally you get the sense of why books are titled how they are while reading, but I still haven't figured it out.

Overall, Tell Me When was a quick read that kept me interested. My two little qualms are just personal issues that have nothing much to do with the stories content; therefore, it shouldn't deter someone from picking this book up. If you want to read a NA story that will keep you coming back for more, you've found it.

Interview
With Stina Lindenblatt

Pet Peeves? Everyone has them. Could you tell us about a few of yours?

When it comes to books, it drives me nuts when authors end the story on a cliffhanger. I don’t mean the kind of cliffhanger found in Catching Fire. At least the story problem was resolved before the cliffhanger ending. It’s the ones where you wonder if the author forgot to include the final pages of the book that annoy me.

Other pet peeves include leaving kitchen cupboard doors open. I don’t know what it is about them, but I always manage to hit my head on the doors. It also frustrates me when crossing the street at a pedestrian crossing and cars don’t stop. I mean, do they really think they’ll get to work quicker by hitting a pedestrian?

If you could choose to have any superpower, what would you want and why?

My superpower would be anything that would make cleaning my house super quick and super easy. But not only that. The house would be sparkly clean once I’m finished. Like most writers, I never seem to have enough time to clean the house. Deadlines come first. And what can I say? Running helps me when I’m stuck with a plot point. Cleaning toilets doesn’t have the same effect, though I wish it did.

If we were to take a look at your nightstand, what book would we find?

At this moment, I’m reading Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult. I’m like a Jodi Picoult virgin. Normally you’ll find a New Adult or edgy YA novel on my nightstand.

When you aren't writing what do you enjoy doing?

I love photography, especially the close-up variety, and I love to read. My newest hobby is checking out Pinterest. I mean, where else can you go and find hot guys, steamy romance, and cuddly kittens? It’s like a tiny patch of heaven all on the computer.

Name 3 things you always have with you when you are writing.

• Diet Dr. Pepper. I don’t drink coffee so this is my caffeine fix.

• My computer. Sometimes I use my PC and sometimes my MacBook Air. It depends what I’m doing.
• Scrivener. It’s an amazing software for writers that I can’t survive without.

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, can you name a few songs that were playing or inspired you while writing Tell Me When?

I wish I could listen to music while I write. Unfortunately I’m easily distracted. If I play songs, I only end up singing (badly) along with them.

Can you describe Tell Me When in 10 words or less?

It’s a sexy story about finding hope, forgiveness, and love.

Where did you get the idea for this book?

I remembered something I once read about stalking. College students are at the highest risk of being stalked than any other population (if you exclude celebrities and the paparazzi who stalk them). While in university, I had to deal with a stalker. Fortunately the outcome wasn’t as bad as it could have been. I researched the topic and decided to write about the life of the victim after the stalker is caught.

Are any of the characters based off of people you know?

There’s a bit of me in both Amber and Marcus, but probably more so with Marcus. He uses sex to deal with his emotional pain, much like I did in university. Other than that, unless it was subconscious, I didn’t base my characters off anyone I know.

Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?

If you ever suspect you’re being stalked, take it seriously. Stalking can be emotionally traumatic and might end up becoming deadly for yourself or a loved one. If you’re in an abusive relationship, the abuser might add stalking to his list of faults and that too might lead to deadly consequences. Get help! Don’t become a statistic.

Giveaway

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{Interview & Giveaway} Shudder by Samantha Durante

Today I have Samantha Durante, author of Stitch & Shudder, with me today on the blog.

Hi Samantha! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to be here at Doodle’s Book Blog!Thanks so much for hosting me, Emily!

Pet Peeves? Everyone has them. Could you tell us about a few of yours?

Biggest pet peeve is smoking! Especially now that I'm pregnant, it's the wors - you just can't get away from it, ugh. And penny-pinchers. Life's too short to squabble over a few dollars on the dinner bill!

If you could choose to have any superpower, what would you want and why?

Time travel - I'd love to be able to see the future and go back to meet my ancestors or experience major events for myself.

If we were to take a look at your nightstand, what book would we find?

At the moment, a whole bunch of pregnancy/parenting books! My first baby is due in October, so I've been reading up trying to prepare. :-)

When you aren't writing what do you enjoy doing?

Reading, of course, and spending time with family/friends. My DVR schedule is also quite packed...lol.

Name 3 things you always have with you when you are writing.

My laptop (that's number one!), my notes for whatever chapter I'm working on, and most likely my cat, who likes to think he's my faithful writer's assistant!

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, can you name a few songs that were playing or inspired you while writing Stitch & Shudder?

I love music, but I'm actually totally anti-music when writing - I just can't concentrate on writing when music is playing. But I was listening to a lot of Muse around the time when I came up with the idea for the trilogy, so I'd say they had an influence!

Can you describe Stitch, Shudder, or the trilogy in 10 words or less?

Dystopian sci-fi romance with some paranormal and lots of twists!

Where did you get the idea for this trilogy?

I began with the idea of doing a college ghost romance, but couldn't figure out how to get the girl and the ghost in the same time/place for a happy ending without resorting to time travel. The Stitch Trilogy is a very creative solution to that problem!

Are any of the characters based off of people you know?

Yup, they're all amalgams of people I know. Alessa in particular is a lot like me since I generally just put myself in her shoes and try to figure out how I'd respond in her situation!

Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?

THANK YOU so much for all of your support! You guys are the best, and I absolutely can't WAIT to share the final book of the trilogy with you!

Thanks again for being here with us today Samantha!

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If you haven't read the first book, Stitch, you can find my review here.  Only $0.99 at Amazon!

And be sure to check back later this month for my review of Shudder!

Shudder 
by Samantha Durante
Pages: 348
Available as of June 15, 2013
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

-- Book 2 in the Stitch Trilogy --

It's only been three days, and already everything is different.

Paragon is behind her, but somehow Alessa's life may actually have gotten worse. In a wrenching twist of fate, she traded the safety and companionship of her sister for that of her true love, losing a vital partner she'd counted on for the ordeal ahead. Her comfortable university life is but a distant memory, as she faces the prospect of surviving a bleak winter on the meager remains of a ravaged world. And if she'd thought she'd tasted fear upon seeing a ghost, she was wrong; now she's discovering new depths of terror while being hunted by a deadly virus and a terrifying pack of superhuman creatures thirsting for blood.

And then there are the visions.

The memory-altering "stitch" unlocked something in Alessa's mind, and now she can't shake the constant flood of alien feelings ransacking her emotions. Haunting memories of an old flame are driving a deep and painful rift into her once-secure relationship. And a series of staggering revelations about the treacherous Engineers - and the bone-chilling deceit shrouding her world's sorry history - will soon leave Alessa reeling...

The second installment in the electrifying Stitch Trilogy, Shudder follows Samantha Durante's shocking and innovative debut with a heart-pounding, paranormal-dusted dystopian adventure sure to keep the pages turning.

{Interview} The Boys of Summer by C.J. Duggan

The Boys of Summer
by C.J. Duggan
Series: Summer (#1)
Pages: 321
Available as of December 17, 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

It seemed only natural to nickname them the ‘Onslow Boys’. Every time they swaggered in the front door of the Onslow Hotel after a hard week’s work, their laughter was loud and genuine as they settled onto their bar stools. I peeked through the restaurant partition, a flimsy divider between my world and theirs. I couldn’t help but smile whenever I saw them, saw him ... Toby Morrison.

Quiet seventeen-year-old Tess doesn’t relish the thought of a summertime job. She wants nothing more than to forget the past haunts of high school and have fun with her best friends before the dreaded Year Twelve begins.

To Tess, summer is when everything happens: riding bikes down to the lake, watching the fireworks at the Onslow Show and water bomb fights at the sweltering Sunday markets.

How did she let her friends talk her into working?

After first-shift disasters, rude, wealthy tourists and a taunting ex-boyfriend, Tess is convinced nothing good can come of working her summer away. However, Tess finds unlikely allies in a group of locals dubbed ‘The Onslow Boys’, who are old enough to drive cars, drink beer and not worry about curfews. Tess’s summer of working expands her world with a series of first times with new friends, forbidden love and heartbreaking chaos.

All with the one boy she has never been able to forget.

It will be a summer she will always remember.

How long did it take you to write The Boys of Summer?

The Boys of Summer has proud roots formed in November 2011NaNo month. National Novel Writing month is a global activity where anyone can join in in the attempt to write 50k in one month. I thought it would be a bit of fun, and initially planned to tackle a edgier world gone wrong drama, but then The Boys of Summer seeped into my subconscious and completely took me over. I had such a clear, concise direction the characters had me going. I wrote in my blog the fear of not being able to ever replicate the joy of writing like I had writing the BOS. I managed to smash the quota with 77k for the month, and It took me 5 months to complete the first rough draft, and it was very rough! Then in a few months it was edited, re written, completely run through the ringer until it was polished. It took over a year in the mechanics to build the story, but it is a story that has been waiting to be written for a very, very, long time. It all just clicked in to place I am really fortunate that I had such a great time creating it.

Future Books in the works?

An Endless Summer (Summer Series Book Two)

Release Date: July 17th 2013

That One Summer (Summer Series Book Three)

Release Date: TBA

Someone Like You: (Stand alone novel)

Release Date: TBA 2014.

{Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway} David Ferraro

Today I have David Feraro, author of Dark Genesis, with me today on the blog.

Hi David! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to be here at Doodle’s Book Blog!
It’s a pleasure to be here!!!

Pet Peeves? Everyone has them. Could you tell us about a few of yours?

I just don’t like mean people. I work in retail, so when people are rude and talk down to people in a retail environment, it drives me crazy. Just because people can exert control over someone else doesn’t mean they should throw their weight around, and adults throwing tantrums when they don’t get what they want is ridiculous.

If you could choose to have any superpower, what would you want and why?

It would be shape-shifting, because you can be anyone you want to be, and who hasn’t imagined being someone else? I would look like a model most of the time, and wouldn’t have to worry about aging because I could just will myself to look young again. But it would be fun to mix it up now and then to blend into places I might not usually have access to, or would stick out like a sore thumb otherwise. Think of all of the cool experiences you could have!

If we were to take a look at your nightstand, what book would we find?

You would find my nook, since I tend to read from my e-reader in bed at night. I’m about to start “Through the Ever Night” by Veronica Rossi, the follow-up to “Under the Never Sky,” which is my favorite dystopian novel period. I’m also making my way through Baum’s Oz books, so you would find “The Emerald City of Oz” as well.

When you aren't writing what do you enjoy doing?

I read a lot, of course. You’ll find one young adult novel or another on my nook, and I try to read a classic a month, and read plenty of graphic novels. I’m also a huge film buff, so I go out to the movies a lot and have late night marathons of horror movies.

Name 3 things you always have with you when you are writing.

First, my computer, which I not only write on, but have music playing from and when I need to step away for a minute, I can just peruse the internet for a bit. Secondly, I always have something to drink, usually a Pepsi or water. And third, I have a candle that smells like fresh-cut grass nearby, and whenever I need a dose of inspiration, I open that and let it fill the room with its fresh aroma.

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, can you name a few songs that were playing or inspired you while writing Dark Genesis?

I do listen to music when I write. It’s usually singer/songwriters like Kate Tucker or Andrew Belle that I have playing, and I have a few instrumental songs that I find inspiring and moody, like “Bella’s Lullaby.” While writing Dark Genesis, I know that a few songs I found myself playing a lot were “Billy the Kid” by Dia Frampton, and “Crows + Locusts” by Brooke Fraser.

Can you describe Dark Genesis in 10 words or less?

A kick-ass girl fights monsters to retrieve her memories.

Where did you get the idea for this story?

Dark Genesis takes place on a world populated by witches. I was thinking about all the different kinds of magic and magical practices that we know of, like voodoo, alchemy, utilizing familiars, astral projection, tarot cards…and I thought that there had to be a cool way to highlight them and contrast them with one another, and that was sort of the framework for this, creating covens with similar characteristics. I also talked with my boyfriend years ago about a comic book we could create featuring some characters coming to a world populated by monsters. I sort of merged the two ideas and came up with a great story for it.

Are any of the characters based off of people you know?

I’m sure that I am influenced by people in subtle ways when I come up with characters, but it’s not intentional or done consciously. I have noticed in the past that some dialogue will sound awfully familiar to something a friend would say, but I can’t think of anything in Dark Genesis like that.

Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?

I appreciate the support and feedback of everyone who has had the chance to read anything I’ve written. I have lots of ideas that I have to share with people, and I hope that people continue to take this journey with me, because I’ve had so much fun so far.

Thanks again for being here with us today David!

     Ahead, the doorway they’d been running toward was suddenly filled by a creature covered in a coat of white fur, its bulky frame bending to fit through the opening. It had two short blue horns protruding from the top of its head and a pale face to match its fur, the face of a monster, with a wide nose, red eyes and a large mouth full of teeth. It reminded Alyssa vaguely of a monkey, especially how it swung its arms. Arms that ended with some deadly-looking blue claws. It roared again as it faced them, and Alyssa swallowed hard as she eyed Eric’s axe, wondering if it would be able to work magic twice.
     A tinkling laugh behind them was almost worse than the roar of the beast. It sounded like icicles clinking together, or ice cubes slipping into a glass. And it was accompanied by a blanket of cold air that rolled over them like fog, freezing their breath and chilling them to the bone.
     Alyssa turned to face The Ice Queen, and was rather impressed by her gorgeous figure. She was tall and beautiful, with hair as white as snow, matching her sleeveless form-fitting dress that brushed the floor with each step she took. Her skin was also white, but was tinged blue, as if she’d been out in the cold. Imagine that. Her lips were just as frosty, and her eyes were a deep blue, but cold and unfeeling, and nothing like the blue warmth that radiated from Eric’s eyes.
     “Don’t mind the yeti,” she said, smiling at them. “He doesn’t have very good manners. But then again, neither do you, trying to slip away without even a greeting.” She clucked her tongue. “And after stealing my property at that.” Her eyes sought out Eric’s. “There you are, my beautiful boy. I was terribly devastated that you would run away. Again. I may have to actually punish you this time.”
     “We saw how you punish people,” Alyssa found herself saying, accusation in her voice. “You’re psychotic.”
     Tinkling laughter again. The Ice Queen had a very calm air about her. It was disconcerting, like she didn’t expect that they would be able to fight her at all. “Believe me, that’s nothing compared to what I’m going to do to you for taking him away from me.” Her features hardened. “Don’t make this more difficult than it needs to be.”
     Alyssa eyed the yeti at one doorway and The Ice Queen at the other. They wouldn’t be able to get past either of them without casualties. “It’s a short drop to the moat, guys.”
     Lace stiffened beside her. “I was afraid you were going to say that.”
     “Now!”
     The yeti charged them, letting out another roar, but Alyssa hardly paid attention to the outburst as she ran for her life toward the windows.
     “Stop them!” The Ice Queen ordered.
     Alyssa found the ground growing slippery beneath her feet as ice grew thick on the floor, but she was already nearly at the windows. She watched Lace slide out one, letting out a small cry as she fell through the air, but she landed safely on the ice below.
     Parker waited for her at the windows, waving for her to move faster, but Alyssa looked back to see where the others were.
     And cursed.
     Eric was pulling his axe out from the throat of the yeti, crimson blood spraying over the floor, a stark contrast to its coat of white fur. Vessa was running in his direction, screaming for him to hurry.
     Alyssa tried to stop in her tracks, but she found that her momentum, along with the ice on the floor, forced her to keep going forward until she slammed into Parker, who let out a startled noise as he was shoved into the open air. Luckily Lace had been watching and caught him a few feet from the ground with a portal, or he may have broken his neck.
    Unwilling to leave her friends without seeing them to safety, Alyssa hesitated at the window. She couldn’t move far without slipping on the ice, which she’d attempted to do a few times only to find herself on the floor with the wind knocked out of her. So she propped herself in the doorway, offering encouraging words to her friends as they made their way toward her.
     Vessa pushed Eric ahead of her, and slipped on the floor herself, spinning in place for a moment before standing on shaky legs and continuing after him. Eric, meanwhile, could hardly stop himself. Alyssa had to slide out of the way as he sailed past her, to safety. She watched him hit the ground on his tailbone before turning back to Vessa, who was gaining momentum as well.
     “Come on,” Alyssa yelled. She swallowed hard as she suddenly realized that she had no idea where The Ice Queen was. Was she going to be down on the ice waiting for them?
     She looked to the side and flinched at the icy smile she found a few feet away. The Ice Queen’s eyes glittered in the shadows like diamonds as she set her predatory eyes on her. “You look like pretty bait.”

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Dark Genesis 
by Dave Ferraro
Pages: 431
Available as of March 5, 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Smashwords

Alyssa opened her eyes to darkness. And in the first flash of light provided by a gathering storm, she could make out a ring of bodies surrounding her.

With no memory of who she is, Alyssa stumbles into a dark world populated by witches. The witches are powerful, and demonstrate frightening powers, but even more terrifying are the monsters who rule over the land. Vampires, werewolves and other awful creatures of the night have taken over, forcing the witches behind stone walls, afraid to venture outdoors. But Alyssa finds that as she kills certain monsters, memories return to her, memories of a life on Earth, and the boy she left behind.

The quest to collect her memories and piece together the puzzle of what has happened to her is a daunting one, with betrayals and sacrifices every step of the way. But Alyssa is determined to fight for a world that is not her own, destroying powerful monsters along the way, so that she can return home to the boy she is coming to love through the memories she recollects.

{Interview} Kaitlyn Deann

Today I have Kaitlyn Deann, author of The Witches' Sleep, with me today on the blog.

Hi Kaitlyn! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to be here at Doodle’s Book Blog!

Pet Peeves? Everyone has them. Could you tell us about a few of yours?

I don’t like wooden kitchen utensils. I don’t like scrubbing carpet with a rag. People can’t eat cereal around me unless I’m eating some too. And I don’t like the sound of slurping or smacking.

If you could choose to have any superpower, what would you want and why?

Invisibility, so I can stalk someone and not be creepy. Haha! *winky face*

If we were to take a look at your nightstand, what book would we find?

Holding the Future Hostage by Tialla Rising!

When you aren't writing what do you enjoy doing?

I love hanging out with my friends when I’m not writing! I also read. Or just chill and listen to music; that’s one of my favorites, I suppose.

Name 3 things you always have with you when you are writing.

Laptop, iPod, flash drive.

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, can you name a few songs that were playing or inspired you while writing The Witches’ Sleep?

Yes! I have a playlist PER BOOK! Let’s Dance by Hawk Nelson, Set Apart This Dream by Flyleaf, Heaven by Jars of Clay…to name a few!

Can you describe The Witches’ Sleep in 10 words or less?

That’s super hard! How about this: “Ella’s shot and wakes up in a new world as a different person.” 13 words. That’s about as short as it’s going to get!

Where did you get the idea for this story?

For The Witches’ Sleep, I had watched the movie Inception, and from there I built a whole story, finding inspiration in small ideas from other little things and squishing them all together to mold them into what I wanted, which is now The Witches’ Sleep.

Are any of the characters based off of people you know?

Not on purpose. I did accidently write my dad into the book as the character’s dad. Only slightly though. The part of him being loving, caring and sacrificial is all inspired by my dad! I didn’t realize this until after the third draft. No one else in the book resembles anybody I can think of right now. The mother in the book is nothing like my mother. She’s dramatic and stuck up, and my mom isn’t like that.

Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?

 Ehem… My dearest readers, what can I say that hasn’t been said or implied? I shall try my best to get across my affections towards you in the simplest way: What shall I do if you do not read what I have produced? I am indebted to you, my faithful readers, because you have inspired and encouraged me when I have needed it the most. Blessings be to you, my darling readers! May blessings be poured in plenty upon thy life!

Thanks again for being here with us today Katilyn!

The Witches' Sleep 
by Kaitlyn Deann
Series: The Witches' Sleep (#1)
Pages: 428
Available as of August 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Book Depository

At only seventeen, Ella Barnes is shot and killed for an unknown reason. She is shocked when she wakes up in a different world, a world of witches. Ella has to learn to adapt to a new body, new life and new world, surrounded by new people. As Ella gets to know Raena, the world of the witches and its people, she realizes they aren’t the perfect creatures they believe themselves to be, and she’s not the type of person to stand around and twiddle her thumbs. Will Ella succeed in changing the mindset of the people? Or will she be doomed to die another cold and tragic death because of her rebellion?

Kaitlyn Deann is a 17-year-old homeschooled author of THE WITCHES' SLEEP. As a writer she wants to keep a reader turning pages late into the night and give them something to think about long after they finish the last page. She loves her friends, family and God. Activities include piano, singing badly and not caring, breathing, eating too many cuties (fruit) at inappropriate times and of course, writing. Laughing is her favorite calorie burner. She lives in Texas with her family. To know more, visit www.kaitlyndeann.com

{Review, Interview & Giveaway} Unmaking Hunter Kennedy by Anne Eliot

Unmaking Hunter Kennedy 
by Anne Eliot
Pages: 437
Source: paperback provided by author
Available as of October 17, 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Book Depository

After a car accident--an event he considers a prank gone bad--pop star, Hunter Kennedy is forced to hide out with his aunt in small-town Colorado. He’s supposed to rest, heal his scars and attend high school in disguise until the press dies down. But he only wants to get back to work.

Worse, the girl who’s been assigned to make him over into a geek is a major geek herself. Vere Roth is a chattering pixie, a blushing tornado and a complete social disaster. He’s never met a girl who’s never-been-kissed, believes in romance and thinks Hunter’s a 'nice' guy.

Funny thing is...Hunter is nice around Vere because she’s his first real friend. He also can’t seem to stop sharing his secrets or keep her out of his heart. Knowing he’d never deserve a girl as sweet as Vere, he resigns himself to the friend zone, and helps his new bestie with her own makeover.

She tortures him daily for ridiculous guy advice on how to snag her life-long crush. A guy Hunter thinks is totally wrong for Vere, and sadly, one who has taken note of Vere’s transformation.

When Vere asks her best friend for some kissing advice, Hunter can’t resist...

And that’s when things get out of control...

Most adorable book ever! I must say, I've really gotten into the whole rockstar is a main character thing recently. Anne Eliot did not disappoint in this story of trust, first kisses, and love.

Hunter Kennedy isn't your average kid. He's been in the public eye for most of his life shooting commercials and, most recently, as the lead singer of GuardRobe. Then he hit a low point. His mom sent him to get help then shipped him off to middle of nowhere Colorado to live with his aunt. Will he flounder or find himself while he tries to stay undercover?

I must say that I absolutely loved all the characters. It was extremely easy to fall into Vere's shoes. She was sweet, innocent, and was completely and entirely clueless about boys. It was awesome being able to reflect on my own days while reading, knowing exactly how she was feeling. Hunter was much more accepting of this situation once he got to know her. I loved reading from his point of view because he was so eager to make her happy. Charlie was the epitome of big brother. He was strong and protective, but also wanted to see that his sister wasn't going to be broken by the star who came into their lives.

Like I said before, Unmaking Hunter Kennedy was the epitome of adorable. It was sweet, just like a first kiss should be. I love that it was written in both Vere and Hunter's points of view. You could just tell by the way Vere would describe him that she was totally head over heels in love with him, but that she was oblivious to it too. We knew from square one that Hunter had some problems to work though and I loved seeing how he evolved and grew through the entire story. It was descriptive and kept me hanging on each word.

Overall, Unmaking Hunter Kennedy is a beautiful story of first loves and it was great being able to revisit my own teenage years through Vere and Hunter. If you are looking for a very sweet, very innocent story of two kids falling in love, you've found your book!

Hi Hunter! Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be here with me today on Doodle's Book Blog. I feel like we really get to know the you you are today in Unmaking Hunter Kennedy so I'd like to talk to you about your childhood.

What was it like before you became a child star?
That's a tough one because I can only repeat what I've been told. My dad was alive, we lived sort of a normal life, but I hardly remember any of it. I mostly remember being a family. Sitting on a green couch with my dad. Mom in the kitchen burning frozen pizza. (She could never cook even back then). Little stuff like that. Sorry I can't be more help on that one.

Was acting and performing something you've always wanted to do?
I was always one of those kids that showed off in front of the TV. Every cell phone, every video camera, every store camera with a TV monitor-- I was always trying to get in front of it. The acting was just me, being me--when I was younger, anyhow. I'd land commercials and then people would pay me to goof off and eat cereal, sit in mini-van and have a pretend family. Back then, I thought I was working for ice cream. As I got older, I was fortunate enough to work with some real professionals who inspired me. I watched them and understood acting was a job, it was work, as was the singing and learning the guitar. Mom got me voice lessons right away and my voice teacher, acting coaches, music teachers, they have all been with me so long. I think of them as extended family because they are really all I have for aunts and uncles and…yeah only them. I think, sometimes the reason we in GuardRobe have a solid stage presence is because we all started out as actors first.

How did your life change after you landed your first role?
Well it had already changed so much because Dad had died. So, landing roles became part of our 'new life' without him in it. Mom pulled me out of school. That was fine by me, because I didn't want to go anyway. She and I hung out together and back then we used to be really close. She homeschooled me through elementary school and then as the jobs got bigger and the work harder, I got tutors. So, yeah…after Dad died…I don't remember my life changing exactly, I just remember it becoming something different without Dad.

Did you ever feel like if your couldn't land a role your family would be disappointed in you?
No. Never. Mom was really supportive if I didn't get a role, but I was pretty hard on myself once I realized my roles were what paid fore everything. Mom never let me do roles that were not serious. She's the one who sought out the NewtTV gigs because they were longer and more consistent. She felt those would be better and less stress for me if I landed one, because there were fewer auditions in between.

Your mom is portrayed as hands off and unaffectionate through most of Unmaking Hunter Kennedy. 
Was your mom always like this?
Mom's amazing and no, for sure she was not unaffectionate. I would also never call Mom hands off. If you read my story and got to the end, you would know my mom was actually fighting for me from the start. I just didn't know it, and my agent didn't know it either. She loved me so much she was willing to full on send me away because in her mind, she was trying to save my life.

As my career took off and I turned into a young teen I drifted away from her. She felt like I needed space to grow up and was also really busy just managing my life and calendar. Around age 14, right when the GuardeRobe group took off on the charts, that is when she and I had a huge disconnect. I would be pulled away to travel overseas. She would often stay home and meet up with me later. We also grew up fast. We'd did our first world tour while the three of us were 8th and 9th graders. She was always around, but she and I were never really talking after awhile. But what thirteen and fourteen year old kid talks to his mom? We sure didn't. I guess you could say I blew her off, and then she got mad at me for it and blew me off back for awhile. Somewhere along there, I got depressed and pushed her away even more. I wish that was not the case, but we are working on things now. Because of her, because of Colorado, we are back to being friends.

Tell us about your favorite childhood memory.
Disneyland. Disneyland. Disneyland! Every single year, me and Mom. I'm a huge fan, and a LANDER not a WORLDER. California all the way. (Though I did love Epcott, when it comes to the big castle and Main Street, I chose the Land and so does my Mom.) I love everything about the park. Know the rides and the map and the timing of when to go on the rides exactly. Favorite memories are somewhere between ages six and 10 and involve StarTours and Pirates of the Caribbean! Although…now that California Adventure Park is in the mix, I'm going to have to add Soaring and California Screaming' to those as well.

What is one thing you will always remember about your dad?
I will remember how he loved Mom. How he loved me. How he always jumped when she called. How he made her light up and happy, and how I used to love the sound of his voice calling me 'Little Bud'. I guess what I'm saying is I will always remember how he made us be 'us'--because he showed us how to love so well.

Moving on to something a little more current, what is your favorite memory with Vere?
Ah so many. Too many and I've only known her so little. The bun. Her epic, insane bun, of course. The first time I saw her spinning around on Charlie's back. How she asked me if my eye color was fake and if I could pull off my eyelashes. How she busts on me. When she bought me my first fresh peach milkshake. Oh wait. I know. How about when I first fell for her so hard? It was when she brought the guitar to my house as a gift and she cried all over me. That's a good one for sure.

Thanks again for joining me today Hunter! Is there anything else you'd like to say to your fans before you go?
Just thanks so much and…go search out some cool, heart shaped rocks. You won't be sorry if you do.

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{Review, Interview & Giveaway} Fated Dreams by Christina Smith

Fated Dreams 
by Christina Smith
Series: The Affinity (#1)
Pages: 339
Source: e-copy provided by author
Available as of March 1, 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Book Depository

Do you believe in true love? Sarah Samson didn’t until she met hers. But for Sarah, meeting the guy of her dreams came with a price. On the outside Sarah looks like she has it all, friends, a loving family, and a hobby she's really good at. But if you look closer, Sarah's keeping secrets, from everyone in her life, even... Lucas. A boy she hardly knows, but still feels a connection with.

Life would be perfect, if it wasn't for the constant feeling that someone is following her. She feels a presence everywhere she goes, work, home, even...in her dreams.

She suddenly finds herself wrapped up in a dangerous mystery that started eighty years ago involving two tragic deaths. After several attempts on her life, she and Lucas realize they must solve it before history repeats itself.

Fated Dreams was an enticing read. Christina Smith wrote a book I never wanted to put down. It was unique and I loved every minute of it.

Sarah has been dreaming of her death for a while now. There is a boy and a girl, a girl who looks exactly like her, and out of nowhere comes a guy with a knife. The boy is killed and the guy goes after her. Why did the boy call her Katie before his death? Better yet, who's the boy?

I really liked Sarah. She was constantly fighting for what she wanted and never wanted to give up. On occasion she kept things to herself that she should have told her parents about, but she was too afraid and not ready to admit she needed help.

So what did I like? I love that Sarah's parents were active in her life. In a lot of YA books these days we don't really see the parents. They tend to be absent and having them frequently conversing with and looking out for Sarah was refreshing. They cared about her well-being. I also enjoyed the mystery as to the boy behind the stalker. I never would have guessed who it was. I liked questioning character motives. It was fun.

What would I have liked to see? Maybe alternating points of view. I would love to see this story from Lucas' point of view. I feel like he would have had a lot to say at a few different points in the story.

Overall, Fated Dreams was an excellent read that made me think and second guess myself. I can't wait to continue the story with Delusions. If you want to read an awesome suspense, this is the book for you.

Hi Christina! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to be here at Doodle’s Book Blog! I thought we could start out with some fun questions then segue into some questions about The Affinity Series.

Pet Peeves? Everyone has them. Could you tell us about a few of yours?
I have a lot, but I can only think of a few. It drives me nuts when I'm driving, and people cut me off even though there's no one behind me. And at home, I hate when people leave cupboard doors or drawers open, and leave lights on when the room is empty.

I completely agree with you about each of those things. Being cut off is aggravating beyond belief and having the lights on in an empty room is pointless. If you could choose to have any superpower, what would you want and why?
Telekinesis, so I can make the broom and cloths move on their own. I hate cleaning.

I never thought of that! If we were to take a look at your nightstand, what book would we find?
Bitten, by Kelley Armstrong. I've read it at least five times. I'm writing the new Moon's Glow book right now, and I like to immerse myself in the genre I'm writing about.

When you aren’t writing what do you enjoy doing?
Reading and watching movies. Spending time with my family.

Name 3 things you always have with you when you are writing.
The phone, TV remote (I have the TV on mute while writing), and Diet Coke.

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, can you name a few songs that were playing or inspired you while writing Fated Dreams.
I can't listen to music while I'm writing, I find it too distracting. But when I take breaks, I do. I find it clears my mind when I'm feeling blocked. Here are a few songs that I was listening to and also originally had in the book. Creep by Radiohead. Anything from Pink. Loser by Beck. Uprising by Muse. The CD, The Show Must Go by Hedly

Can you describe The Affinity Series in 10 words or less?
A fun entertaining read, with romance, mystery and humor.

Where did you get the idea for this story?
From a series of books about Soul Mates written by LJ Smith. It was the first time I had read anything about Soul Mates.

Are any of the characters based off of people you know?
No, but when I wrote this, I was obsessed with Vampire Diaries, and for the main characters I had Nina Dobrev and Paul Wesley in my mind in appearance only. I did write Olivia, the sister from Delusions based on my niece Summer. Oh, and the girl on the cover of Fated Dreams is my Niece Courtney.

Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?
Just that I really enjoyed writing this series, and I hope you enjoy reading it.

Thanks for stopping by Christina!

I grew up in Kingston Ontario, Canada, and after getting married, moved to a small rural town in the country. I live here with my husband Brad, two kids Josh and Megan, and our dog Bailey. Even though our house is peaceful, surrounded by nature and the occasional deer, I'm still a city girl at heart. I miss civilization, and visits with my mother and two sisters.

You can find Christina...

Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter 

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{Review, Interview & Giveaway} Dark Seraphine by KaSonndra Leigh

Dark Seraphine 
by KaSonndra Leigh
Series: Seraphine Trilogy (#1)
Pages: 230
Source: e-copy provided by author via Reading Addiction Blog Tours
Available as of October 21, 2012
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

"Mom always says the angels walk among us. She forgot to tell me that sometimes they're not all fluffy and nice."

Seventeen-year-old Caleb Wood has seen people he calls the walkers since he was a baby. It didn't take long for him to realize something…no one can see these strangers but him. They never stuck around or tried to touch him. And they never said a word. That was until one day on the first day of class in his senior year when an incredibly gorgeous girl strolls into his life…and things are never the same again.

Soon Caleb realizes he has stepped into the middle of a growing conflict between two ancient groups. And his ability to see the invisible ones, the half-breeds that want to modify the human race, just might be the only hope both he and the mysterious, but infuriating, Gia, have of making it out alive.

After reading the summary, I was intrigued. After reading the story, I thought it was unique. It was so different from what I had expected.

Caleb has always been able to see those who aren't really there. He calls these people walkers. However, none of them have ever talked to him. His world is about to change and it's all because of her.

I really liked Caleb. Partially because he was different, and partially because he really didn't have a filter. He tends to speak before thinking and usually around girls. This makes for a number of funnies he never would, or should, have said had his filter been in place.

What did I like? I loved that this is from a guys point of view. Rarely have I read a book written from a guys prospective. I also liked Caleb's internal chats. He gave himself pep talks and made fun of himself. Who hasn't done this to themselves? This helped me connect with him. Finally, I like, and respect, the fact that he has a conscious. With the position he was in, most guys would have taken advantage, but Caleb made it clear what the deal was.

Overall, Dark Seraphine was unique and different from my usual read. It was a refreshing change of pace for me. If you enjoy a good paranormal read with a little bit of romance, you should give this one a shot.

With Gia Jones!!

What’s your favorite color?
Any shade of blue or green. I know. That’s kind of strange for a girl, right? That’s why I love this aquamarine necklace so much.
**you can win one just like Gia’s in the contest that’s going on during this blog tour**

What type of vehicle do you drive?
I don’t have a car. I’d like one though. But that would mean taking lessons. I don’t think my feet are coordinated enough to do that just yet.
**I want to ask what she means, but decide against it**

Describe yourself to me.
**blushes before she speaks** Oh, I don’t like talking about myself. It’s, well, just a little bit conceited. I’m 5’5” tall. I have dark, shoulder-length hair and I wear my favorite leather jacket every day.

How would your mate describe you?
**gives me a dreamy smile** Maybe he can tell you later on when you talk to him.

What really moves you, or touches you to the soul?
Listening to the ocean’s waves crashing on the shores at night. And yes, there’s a reason that particular sound affects me so much. But you’ll have to check out my story to find out why that happens.

What's the one thing you have always wanted to do but couldn't? What would happen if you did do it?
There’s one thing I’ve always wanted to do. But here’s the catch, I am doing it. And now that I am everything has fallen apart. **blinks back tears, and lowers her head**

Describe your ideal mate.
**blushes** He has a great personality. Goals are actually somewhere in his future plans. And oh yeah, he’s ridiculously sexy.

What are you most afraid of?
Losing the person I just described in the last question.

What's the most important thing in your life?
My family.

What do you consider your special talent?
I have so many. And if I tell you what any one of those might be, then I’d have to kill you. **grins at me as my eyes widen** Okay, I’m just kidding. I believe in world peace, and not violence.

How did you meet the hero/heroine?
Actually, I can’t tell you that. It’s our secret. But I can tell you that I knew he was going to be an important part of my life as soon as I saw him. My heart still flutters each time I think of him.

Was it love at first sight or did it develop slowly?
Definitely love at first sight.

What did you like/dislike about him/her when you first met?
I gave him something, and he said it was stupid. Let’s just say that didn’t sit well with me for a long moment. But then he glanced at me with those baby blue-grays. Okay, I’m a wus. I didn’t stay mad long after that. **she giggles**

If you were granted three wishes, what would you ask for?
Peace, love, and happiness, my man. What else am I supposed to say?

Thanks so much for stopping by today Gia. You seem like a really fun person.
And thanks to you for having me on your blog today. I’ll come back and chat anytime youlike. You can check out some pictures of my home here: http://pinterest.com/alestasia/dark-seraphine/

KaSonndra Leigh was born in Charlotte, North Carolina. She now lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, North Carolina. She likes to write about people doing fantastical things in magical worlds. Her two sons have made her promise to write a boy book next.

She holds the MFA in creative writing, and loves to play CLUE, Monopoly (the Indiana Jones version), and Pandora's Box (good writer's block therapy). She lives in an L-shaped house with a garden dedicated to her grandmother. It has a secret library complete with fairies, Venetian plastered walls, and a desk made out of clear blue glass.

You can find KaSonndra...

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*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising*