Porcelain Keys by Sarah Beard -- Blog Tour

Porcelain Keys

Author: Sarah Beard

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: Expected February 11th, 2014

Genre: YA

Paperback: 352 pages

ISBN13: 9781462113965

FTC FYI: Received a PDF from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Aria's life is full of secrets--secrets about her mother's death, her father's cruelty, and her dream to go to Juilliard. When Aria meets Thomas, he draws out her secrets, captures her heart, and gives her the courage to defy her father. But when tragedy strikes and Thomas disappears, Aria is left alone to transform her broken heart's melody into something beautiful. Porcelain Keys is a captivating love story that will resonate long after the last page is turned.

My Review

Wow, this was a good book.  I could not put it down.  I almost finished it in one sitting.  I loved the story.  I was immediately taken by Aria and her life.  Thomas was fantastic too.  I loved how the author pulled me into the story with subtle hints of what was to come and didn't let go until the end.  So many things happen to her and those around her, you can't help but read all night.  I know I have read a good book when I read it quickly, have tears in my eyes at some point and have a smile on my face at the end.    

5 out of 5 stars.  Perfect debut for Sarah.  I will eagerly be awaiting more from her.  

About the Author

Sarah Beard is the author of Porcelain Keys, a YA contemporary romance.  She has a degree in communications from the University of Utah and splits her time between writing and raising three energetic boys.  She is a cancer survivor and a hopeless romantic.  She enjoys reading and composing music, and lives with her husband and children in Salt Lake City, Utah.  You can follow Sarah on Twitter @authorsarahB or Facebook.  Her website is www.sarahbeard.com.


Reviews

"Emotionally rich, elegant description, beloved characters--Sarah Beard delivers a fresh, new novel that will go on my list of classics." --Stephanie Fowers, author of With a Kiss.

"Aria is a heroine worth rooting for, and the plot is an emotional melody that weaves a spell so potent, it can only be broken by reaching the end. And even then, I couldn’t stop thinking about Aria and her story." --Heather Frost, author of The Seers Trilogy

"Emotionally gripping, this beautifully crafted young adult romance will pull at readers’ heartstrings from tragic beginning to happy ending. A must-read for fans of contemporary romance, both young and seasoned. " --Julie Ford, author of Replacing Gentry

"Porcelain Keys is a fresh, heart-wrenching take on boy-meets-girl. Using fantastic and musical imagery to tell the poignant love story of Aria and Thomas, the author leads thereader to a swelling crescendo as if we're part of the song—and what a beautiful song it is." --Cindy C. Bennett, author or Geek Girl and Rapunzel Untangled

"A lyrical love story that will leave your heart singing. Porcelain Keys is a masterpiece with emotional depth, young love, and family angst. Beard takes us on a journey of self- discovery, second chances, and ultimately, sweet resolution." --Heather Ostler, author or The Siren's Secret

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Selection & The Elite by Kiera Cass

The Selection

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: Harper Teen

Published: April 2012

ISBN13: 978006059932

Hardcover: 327 pages

FTC FYI: Bought a kindle copy.

Goodreads Summary

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

My Review

 4 1/2 stars.  I've had my eye on this book for awhile and finally stole some time to read it.  I am so glad I did.  I loved it.  I thought it was very well written, and the characters were very likable.  I loved America.  I loved Maxon.   I didn't think I would like him, actually.  Is Marlee too good to be true?  Is Celeste really that awful?   The plot is fabulous, and I also liked the mystery of rebel attacks.  I loved the world that the author created.  

Everyone lives under a caste system, and being a five, America didn't think she will stand a chance to catch Prince Maxon's eye.  When they first meet, America yells at him (which I loved), and then they strike up a deal.  They will be friends, and America will give Maxon advice throughout the selection.  What America doesn't expect is her feelings for Maxon, and does she have the strength to make it through herself?  I was glad The Elite was waiting for me when I finished...

The Elite

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: Harper Teen

Published: April 23, 2013

ISBN13: 9780062059936

Hardcover: 323 pages

FTC FYI: Received a copy from the library

Goodreads Summary

Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea.

America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide.

Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending.

My Review

I really liked this sequel.  I wasn't sure what to expect.  America is now faced with her ex-boyfriend Aspen being a guard at the castle.  Her feelings for Maxon get mixed up when something happens to one of the girls (sorry you will have to find out yourself :).  The rebels are still attacking and America's stay at the castle is getting more confusing, and dangerous.

In the past few days, I've really enjoyed reading these books.  Now I feel the agony of waiting for The One (Book 3) until next year.  Lots of surprises throughout, along with a great ending.  

4 out of 5 stars.  There was a bit of indecision from America, which is to be expected.  I can't say what, but something huge happens and I won't tell who it was with, but it was a surprise and well done.  

Author Links

Website / Goodreads / Twitter

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Rapunzel Untangled by Cindy C. Bennett -- Blog Tour/Interview/Giveaway

Rapunzel Untangled

Author: Cindy C. Bennett

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: February 12th, 2013

Hardcover: 304 pages

ISBN13: 9781462111565

FTC FYI: I received a PDF copy in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Rapunzel is not your average teenager. 

For one thing, she has a serious illness that keeps her inside the mysterious Gothel Mansion. And for another, her hair is 15 feet long. Not to mention that she’s also the key to ultimately saving the world from certain destruction. But then she meets a boy named Fane, who changes all she has ever known, and she decides to risk everything familiar to find out who she really is. 

Filled with romance, adventure, and mystery, Rapunzel Untangled is one story you won’t want to put down. Discover the true meaning of love and friendship in this modern twist to the classic fairytale.

Author Interview

Mindy:  As a reader, I'm always interested to find out what types of books authors like to read themselves. You write a variety of books, but what genre is your favorite to read and why

Cindy:  I tend to read YA books mostly. There are so many great ones available right now. The main reason I began writing YA is because it's what I was reading. Once in a while I'll venture off into horror, thriller, romance, or other adult novels, but the bulk of what I read is YA. In fact, I just finished Warm Bodies, and am partly into Fight Club, which is definitely not YA, but still very interesting. I just beta-read three different YA books for other authors, and have a huge pile of TBR which are almost exclusively YA. I only wish I had more time to read, but it feels like such a guilty pleasure any more when I should be writing. That's what's great about long baths, long-lines to wait in, and long car rides - guilt free reading!

Thank you Cindy!

My Review

Rapunzel Untangled was very enjoyable.  I thought Rapunzel herself was a doll and although naive (of course she was naive, she has spent her whole life in a tower) she learns a lot about friendship, love, and herself.  I immediately loved Fane.  He's a very sweet guy and takes Rapunzel under his wing.  Helping her to question her strange upbringing and how sick she really is.

3 1/2 of out 5 stars.  This is a fast paced book with great characters, romance, and lots of heart.  The ending took a different turn I wasn't expecting, but it did not distract me from enjoying the book.

Author Links

Blog / Facebook / Twitter

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Cedar Fort

Here is the link for the Giveaway! Enjoy.

An Ideal Boyfriend by Mette Ivie Harrison

An Ideal Boyfriend

Author: Mette Ivie Harrison

Publisher: Self

Published: August 12, 2012

ebook

ISBN13: 9781476031552

FTC FYI: Received a PDF copy in exchange for an honest review.

Smashwords Summary:

Told from alternating points of view, Trudy and Rob are high school students at St. James Luck Academy, in a world where luck has been quantified. Trudy thinks that Rob is an ideal boyfriend, the only son of the oldest luck family in America. Yes, his parents wish that Rob would go back to his old girlfriend Laura who came from an old luck family and was more suitable. But Rob always defends her and treats her well. Rob, on the other hand, has a secret he has been keeping from his family all his life, and from Trudy, too. When Laura threatens to "out" him, Rob has to do whatever she says, including betraying his best friend Art, and handing over Art's new science project that will change the world of luck completely--for good or ill, depending on who has control of it. 

My Review

I met the author at Authorpalooza in September, and I was really taken by her description of this book. It is a retelling of the Oscar Wilde play An Ideal Husband. But, this story has luck, and lots of it.  

I really enjoyed An Ideal Boyfriend.  I enjoyed the style in which the author wrote it.  It is told from alternating points of view from Trudy and Rob.  Trudy comes from unlucky parents. She is only at St. James Academy because of her impressive luck scores. Rob's ex-girlfriend Laura, isn't happy that she is there.  When Rob's friend Art starts asking Trudy questions about luck, that starts a chain of events that could lead to someone permanently losing their luck, or becoming the luckiest person in the world. Would that be so bad?

4 ouf 5 stars. Mette Ivie Harrison has written many fabulous book. Find her on Goodreads, her Website, Facebook, and Twitter.

An Ideal Boyfriend is only .99 on Smashwords.

Purchase Links

SMASHWORDS / AMAZON / BARNES AND NOBLE

The Guardians of Elijah's Fire

Author: Frank L. Cole

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: June 2012

ISBN13: 9781462110575

Paperback: 272 pages

FTC FYI: Review Copy

Goodreads Summary

Just when they thought they were safe, Amber Trendon, and their classmates get yanked back into the action. With the Tebah Stick in enemy hands, Amber becomes a target, and it seems even her closest allies can't be trusted. Now the gang will have to travel through enemy territory to protect a deadly ancient weapon that could cause the earth's utter destruction. This thrilling tale ups the action and doubles the danger. Bestselling author Frank L. Cole delivers an addicting read for adventurers of all ages. 

My Review

Amber just celebrated her 15th birthday, and the gifts are still coming in. One in partiuclar is puzzling to her. There is no note telling who is was from. It was a box with two old leather books inside. The 1st and 2nd book of Kings. Why was someone sending her books from the Bible. Amber has her suspicions as to who sent it. To top it all off, Amber keeps having dreams, nightmares really that come every night. In these dreams, she feels that someone or something is haunting her. This book picks up right where the first ended, and it's just as exciting with non-stop action as in The Guardians of the Hidden Scepter. I really, really enjoyed this. Amber finds out some information that is shocking, and she doesn't really know who she can trust. Old friends and foes are back in the book, and I loved her journey. Amber has a power, one that she isn't sure how to use. 4 out of 5 stars. This is a great series for kids and adults. 

Find out more about the author here.

Follow Frank on FACEBOOK and his Author Event Page. 

The release party of The Guardians of Elijah's Fire is June 12 at 6:00 pm. Fort Union Deseret Book - 1110 E Fort Union Blvd. Midvale, UT 

 AMAZON / BARNES AND NOBLE

The Wild Queen by Cheri Chesley

The Wild Queen

Author: Cheri Chesley

Publisher: Chesley Books

Published: 2011

eBook

ASIN: B0050I5NFO

FTC FYI: Received a copy from the author which did not affect my review.

Goodreads info: "Dear reader,

This is an epic a love story, but not a happy one. While it is romantic, like Romeo and Juliet it does not have a happily-ever-after conclusion. I caution you on this only because I’d hate for you to be disappointed because the story did not end as you had hoped...So begins the author's note at the beginning of this book. For details on the plot, read on:

In the exciting prequel to The Peasant Queen, Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value-the Healer's Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.

And it's in high demand.

Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena's father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena's hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.

Before Lucien can return, Roweena's home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer's Grove is also attacked-burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien."

The Wild Queen is the "prequel" of The Peasant Queen. I read this book last year for the Cheri, and was pleasantly surprised when I received a copy of it in the mail from the author this week. This is a wonderful offering from Cheri telling us faithful readers about Gregory's parents, Roweena and Lucien. I instantly loved Lucien. His patience and compassion are what drew me in the most. Roweena is a mysterious character. I love how she is portrayed, though. She comes to Lucien in her greatest need, and handles herself well considering what she has lost. The ending is a killer, but since I have been lucky enough to have read The Tyrant King, and with conversations I've had with the author, all I have to say is, be patient dear readers. Be patient. The Tyrant King comes out June 2012.

4 out 5 stars. You can read my review of The Peasant Queen here. Cheri has also written a short story called Ghost Bride which is free on Smashwords.

Follow Cheri Chesley on Twitter / Facebook / Blog / Goodreads

AMAZON / B & N / SMASHWORDS

Night Sky by Jolene B. Perry

Night Sky

Author: Jolene B. Perry Twitter / Facebook

Publisher: Tribute Books Twitter / Facebook

Published: March 1, 2012

ISBN: 9780983741862
ISBN: 9781466052338

eBook: 247 pages

FTC FYI: Review copy

Goodreads Summary: "Girl I’ve loved, girl I’m falling for. Now that they’re both in view, the problem is clear.

After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year."

Jameson is having a bad night. He doesn't have the courage to tell his best friend Sarah how he feels about her. He loves her, and has for years. Now it's too late, she's with Eric now. Jameson leaves the school dance and takes the bus down the Vegas strip to see his parents. They both work at a Casino and work odd hours. Jameson doesn't mind the hours, though. It works for their family. He finds them, gets a sympathy talk from his mom and she gives him the keys the Porsche to drive home. Even though he is down and out, there's nothing like driving his dad's Porsche. On his way, he has to pass by his neighborhood to head south, all the while blasting his 90's grunge music. Then he sees her. A beautiful girl with a tank top, flip flops and long black hair. Jameson can't believe his bravery when he asks her if she needs a ride. The girl is lost and Jameson offers to help her, because he lives close. Turns out she's staying with her grandparents while she attends college, and her house is down from Jameson's. They talk and flirt. Her name is Sky, and right away Jameson is hooked. Sky has a request from Jameson right from the start of their friendship, total honesty.

Jameson is a great character. I liked how the guy in a story this time is "the good kid". He's on the swim team, gets good grades, and has his head on straight (about most things). Sky comes in to his life and helps him with his still lingering feelings for Sarah. Other things come up for him and as they are getting to know each other, Jameson finds Sky is holding back some truths. Which is frustrating for him because of the her "honesty" rule.

I really liked this book. 4 out of 5 stars. Jolene is such an amazing author. She has a way of writing so smoothly and effortlessly. Jolene is also the author of The Next Door Boys which I loved! It was nominated for a 2011 Whitney Award. Knee Deep is an upcoming book from her as well.

Content

There is language and sexual situations. While the characters don't have sex, Sky does spend the night, and there are descriptions of Jameson's thoughts towards Sky.

I was so excited to be a part of this Blog Tour. Jolene is my friend, and I want to spread the word about her awesome books. Jolene grew up in Wasilla, Alaska. She graduated from Southern Utah University with a degree in political science and French, which she used to teach math to middle schoolers.

After living in Washington, Utah and Las Vegas, she now resides in Alaska with her husband, and two children. Aside from writing, Jolene sews, plays the guitar, sings when forced, and spends as much time outside as possible.

SMASHWORDS / AMAZON / NOOK / PDF

Ambush by Obert Skye

Head over to Fire & Ice for a swag give-away!

Pillage Book 3: Ambush

Author: Obert Skye

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published: 2012

Hardcover: 328 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1-60908-891-0

FTC FYI: Review copy

Genre: YA Fantasy

Summary: "What can happen on an innocent field trip to a museum? In the secure protection of a jail? OR on a simple bus ride? Plenty, if you are a member of the Pillage family and your name is Beck Phillips. No matter what strangeness is going on, Beck still manages to turn things on their head.

When Beck's personality and behavior begins to change after he makes a fateful, life-altering decision involving--what else?--a dragon egg, there is no one around to stop him from fulfilling his family's destiny set out in The Grim Knot. And as life in Kingsplot moves unwittingly toward the brink of another dragon disaster, Beck finds himself living a life of deception as he hides information from the people who love and care about him the most."

Beck is trying to get back to normal after he, Wyatt, and his long-suffering girlfriend Kate drop the last egg in the manor where it, hopefully, can't be reached again. Beck heads to a field trip with his class to the town museum. Beck is drawn to a Pillage statue. Under his feet, though, mushrooms start to grow and take over. Causing a very bad situation for Beck involving buses and water. When he finds himself in a police car, he says,

"I couldn't believe what was happening to me. Sure, a lot of odd things had occurred since I had moved to Kingsplot. I had raised dragons, discovered my father, and destroyed a few things along the way, but this was the first time I had been arrested." page 43

Beck is later asked to do something by his sick father. Should he do it? Even though he knows what will happen, and it could risk his relationship with Kate, Beck is tempted.

4 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed this series. It's a great ride! I love how the author writes Beck's character. He's a sarcastic little brat sometimes, but he always makes me smile. Beck always has something clever to say. He is written so well, each character is. There are some surprises with the dragon egg that I really liked, and a little twist too. I did want more from the dragon though, but it didn't "ruin" the book for me. Very clever and creative series. Check out my earlier review of Pillage.

Read more about Obert Skye here.

AMAZON / B & N / DESERET BOOK / SEAGULL BOOK

On the Fringe by Courtney King Walker

On the Fringe

Author: Courtney King Walker

Publisher: Lands Atlantic Publishing

Published: 2011

Paperback: 272 pages

IBSN: 978-0-9825005-5-2

FTC FYI: I received a free copy which did not affect my review

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary: Claire is struggling to overcome the murder of her childhood friend and secret crush, Daniel. Everyone else seems to be moving on with their lives, but she's still trying to cope. The fact that she finds herself alone and drowning on her 16th birthday isn't helping.

Neither is thinking she sees Daniel's face in murky water as she mysteriously resurfaces. But something happened during those four and a half minutes that will make her realize it was not just her imagination.

As Claire and Daniel try to grasp a possible reconnection, other grudge-holding beings have plans of their own. Now, the two of them have to decide if their fleeting relationship is worth the possibility of Claire being trapped on the fringe forever.

Beautifully told, On the Fringe intertwines fresh ideas about devotion, revenge, and the consequences that come with life and death."

Right when Claire and Daniel are starting to realize they like each other, Daniel is killed in shooting. They have known each other for years, and Claire is best friends with Daniel's sister, Addie. While Daniel is best friends with Matthew, Claire's brother. In the beginning of the book, you get to know the characters and be with them for some of their escapades.

I love the way this book is written. It is told in Claire's and Daniel's perspective, and a bit in flashback form. Very clever, and written well. This book was so enjoyable and the characters were engaging. My favorite was Daniel. I felt myself cheering for Claire and Daniel even though... oops, I can't tell you all that. You will have to read this entertaining book to find out all the fun secrets. It was very intense in some scenes, and spooky too. There is someone out there on the fringe who wants to hurt Claire, and they need to find out why.

4 out of 5 stars. Find out more about the author here. Follow Courtney on Twitter on Facebook.

BARNES AND NOBLE / AMAZON

What I Want to Read

Tuesdays are a great day. It usually means new books are coming out. Today is the day that Partials by Dan Wells is released.

If this book is like anything else I've read from him, I know it will be brilliant.

I admit I was very scared to read his

I am Not a Serial Killer series. They were scary yes, but amazing.

Goodreads Summary: Humanity is all but extinguished after a war with partials--engineered organic beings identical to humans--has decimated the world’s population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island. The threat of the partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to the disease in over a decade. Humanity’s time is running out.

When sixteen-year-old Kira learns of her best friend’s pregnancy, she’s determined to find a solution. Then one rash decision forces Kira to flee her community with the unlikeliest of allies. As she tries desperately to save what is left of her race, she discovers that the survival of both humans and partials rests in her attempts to answer questions of the war’s origin that she never knew to ask.

Partials is available now!