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Showing posts with label BBAW Giveaways. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BBAW Giveaways. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Book Review and Giveaway: Synarchy Book 2: The Ascension by D.C.S.

This unique series is bound to keep your attention with fast paced action.
Synarchy Book 2: The Ascension by D.C.S.

    Synarchy Book 2: The Ascension
  • Paperback: 442 pages
  • Publisher: SVT Publishing, LLC (July 30, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0578062186
  • ISBN-13: 978-0578062181
Genre: Science Fiction Thriller
My Rating: 4.5

Product Description
"We're villains, as much as we are capable of being heroes..." A lifetime ago, Stefano Vasco Terenzio saw one way to maneuver his family into a game of betrayal against an unbeatable enemy; walking into a bullet. A generation later, what started with one man's ego will determine the fate of the whole word. For centuries The Brotherhood and their Gods, the Anunnaki have hidden in plain sight among us. For centuries they have lied, sacrificed man by the thousands, and manipulated humanity into their service. As the clock ticks closer to December 21st, 2012, they will stop at nothing to keep their control of planet Earth. In the thrilling sequel to Synarchy Book 1: The Awakening, the end is only the beginning. Secrets emerge that will challenge the core of everything you think you believe. All the while a team of scientists must make sense out of the fantastical, and the tenuous link holding together the one family that can save humankind, shatters.
Review: I found both Book 1 and Book 2 to be well written with a uniqueness and intensity that kept me eagerly engaged.

In this second book in the series we see a bit more into the backgrounds and personalities of the Terenzios, the Italian mafia family protagonists whom we met in the first book. We also see more of the misguided family members as the villains who are working with the controlling Brotherhood.  Here too we find more aliens taking sides, including warrior angels, pixie or faerie angels, creatures of light (Pleiadians) and the reptilian enemies, the Anunnaki, and their messenger gargoyles.

The story is full of high, vivid emotion and fast paced action.  The author does a great job with tight writing that seems to provide constant movement towards the climatic battle between the good guys seeking Ascension and the bad guys trying to block it.

I love how both books have quotes at the beginning of each chapter (something I like in books.)  Here is an apt early quote in this book:  "Some of the biggest men in the United States... are afraid of something. They know that there is a power somewhere so organized, so subtle, so watchful, so interlocked, so complete, so pervasive, that they had better not speak above their breath when they speak in condemnation of it."  Woodrow Wilson.

The story lends itself to quotes observing political tyranny and self awareness which are quite remarkable and fitting. One thing the story put me in mind of, which I am sure it is designed to, is various conspiracy theories, but particularly those regarding the power, control and hidden evil doings of The Brotherhood.

After the climax in this story, and the loss of quite a few of the characters, I am really curious as to what happens in the next books. Of course I shouldn’t say the characters are lost as they have only transitioned to another plane or level and perhaps will be back as new characters if there is more reincarnation.

If you like a fast paced action thriller, with a bit of paranormal help in the battling, I think you would really enjoy this series!

Thank you to the author and Pump Up Your Book Promotion for offering both books for GIVEAWAY!
Some lucky person or persons is/are going to get to win Book 1 and Book 2. I couldn’t decide whether to host the giveaway as a set or separate winners. I think the winner of Book 1 would want to read Book 2 and the winner of Book 2 will want to read Book 1 first. So I will let the entrants pick how this giveaway goes.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:
1. REQUIRED:  When you comment say “Set” if you think both books should be given as a set to One Winner OR say “Separate” if you think there should be separate Books to TWO Winners. Majority rules.

2.  Visit the author's website and tell me something you found there. Good for three extra entries.

3. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4. For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Seven total entries possible.)
It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

* This contest is open US and Canada only.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close 10:00 PM (Central) on December 10, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Book Review and Giveaway: Montana Glory by R.C. Ryan

This is a romance to touch your heart strings.
Montana Glory  by R.C. Ryan
    Montana Glory
  • Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
  • Publisher: Forever; Original edition (November 1, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0446548642
  • ISBN-13: 978-0446548649
     Genre: Contemporary Romance
      My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description
The last thing in the world Zane McCord wants is a wife. But after returning home to the family ranch in Montana to help his cousins search for the lost treasure that is their legacy, Zane can't help notice that love and marriage seem to be contagious. Both his cousins have succumbed, but he refuses. Determined to stay a bachelor till he dies, Zane wants to devote his time to filming documentaries and taking care of the ranch...and then Riley Mason walks into his life.

The last thing on Riley Mason's mind is romance. Sent to the McCord ranch to save the family's accounting problems, she only wants to impress her firm in Helena and be on her way. Life as a single mother isn't easy and she needs to impress her bosses for a raise. But when Zane McCord opens the door, her breath catches in her throat and a desire she's never experienced before takes over her. When the McCords insist that she and her daughter, Summer stay at the ranch, she's forced to give in and before long, she's pulled into their search for the long lost treasure. But she absolutely draws the line at getting involved with Zane McCord, playboy and heartbreaker extraordinaire.

But as they all get closer to finding Coot's lost treasure, a dangerous series of accidents target Riley and her daughter Summer. Can Zane keep her safe while trying to win her heart?

Review:  This story involves not just a man and a woman, but a four year old sweetheart of a girl, and a warm loving ranch family.

Riley is an independent, strong single mother. She is fresh out of accounting school and takes a job on a large secluded ranch in Montana.  She is glad to get away from Philadelphia and thinks this could be a new start for herself and her young daughter, Summer.  Riley has been on her own for many years and usually holds herself apart from others.  She also has some secrets that she is hiding as she tries to protect herself and her daughter.

Zane is the youngest of three cousins on the Lost Nugget Ranch. Although he has watched his older cousins settle down with new wives, he doesn’t see that happening to change his sexy, bachelor life style.   He tends not to trust women after watching his selfish mother ruin his father and his own childhood.
The story moves quickly with the attraction between Riley and Zane growing slowly but surely. The family gives a warm welcome to Riley and her daughter and I enjoyed the development of relationships between other family members and the delightful child, Summer.  I also enjoyed the added side romance of Aunt Cora‘s long time unacknowledged love for the rugged ranch foreman, Cal. The story focuses more on the family relationships than the continued search for the lost treasure.  When it is revealed that Riley may be in danger, she is ready to flee rather than bring danger to the ranch family. But by this point Zane is willing to acknowledge his feelings for her and he won’t let her run. The family bands together to help Riley overcome the danger.
There are some small but annoying errors in the book – I really don’t like when names are mixed up for the main characters. The danger is obvious to the readers although the characters are oblivious. Considering they had been through troubles in prior books in the series (which I had not read) this seemed unrealistic. Also at times the story seemed a bit contrived instead of having a completely natural flow.  I think that may be because it was wrapping up a series and tying up some loose ends. Even with those cons, the story is warm and touching and brought tears to my eyes.  The romance is sweet and deep without any direct sex and the child character is adorable. I recommend this as an easy, enjoyable read and I like the writing and characters enough that I would be glad to go back and  read the first two books about the other members of this loving family.

THANK YOU TO HACHETTE FOR ALLOWING ME TO SPONSOR THIS GIVEAWAY.
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR ONE OF FIVE COPIES:

1. For your main entry comment on the author Q&A - this is required for entry.  While there, Answer one of the Questions posed by the Author at Q12 for TWO additional entries.
Make sure you leave your e-mail address!

2.  Visit the Author's website or Five Fun Facts and tell me something you found interesting. Worth TWO extra entries.

3.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4.  For THREE extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

(9 total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL! Five winners!
* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* Only one winner per household.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 26, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries. 

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Elizabeth Captive Princess by Margaret Irwin

Here is a book to draw you into Tudor royal intrigue, political and religious struggles.
Elizabeth, Captive Princess: Two Sisters, One Throne by Margaret Irwin.

    Elizabeth, Captive Princess: Two Sisters, One Throne
  • Paperback: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; Reprint edition (October 1, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1402229976
  • ISBN-13: 978-1402229978
         Genre: Historical Fiction
         My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

    Product Description
    From an acclaimed master of historical fiction, a captivating series that is "vivid and psychologically brilliant."
    -Times Literary Supplement, UK
    In July 1553, sibling rivalry looms perilous, even life-threatening, between the daughters of King Henry VIII. Their brother King Edward is dead, his successor Lady Jane Grey has been beheaded, and Queen Mary Tudor has just won possession of the throne. But her younger half sister-the beautiful and vivacious Princess Elizabeth-holds the hearts of the people. Despite Mary's health fading fast and her power beginning to crumble, she won't give up the throne, determined to rule to the absolute end as her father did before her. In these treacherous times, when all about her there is secrecy and deception, Elizabeth must rely on her faith and courage if she is to survive her ordeal and rise to fulfill her destiny. With grace and elegance, Margaret Irwin continues the story begun in Young Bess, giving readers an intimate peek into the world of that most enigmatic of Britain's monarchs.
    Review: The writing in this book grows on you and the history becomes fascinating. I had not read the first book in this series, Young Bess: The Girl Who Would Be Queen (Elizabeth I Trilogy) so I was not familiar with the style of writing.  Although I immediately liked the beautiful flowing imagery, the dialogue is puzzling and difficult to follow at first as the characters speak in riddles or code. This did enhance the sense of fear and distrust that is prevalent in the story and after a bit the writing wrapped me in with the vivid characters.

    The author does a wonderful job of portraying the different personalities of the rivals for being Queen upon the death of King Edward in 1553.  Jane, a cousin of King Edward and named successor by Will, is the reluctant, studious child used by others to become Queen and promote the Protestant church. She is manipulated by Duke Dudley, a grasping, vicious man out for political control, but they do not have the support of the people.

    Then there is Princess Mary who is the older (age 37) spinster daughter of King Henry VIII.  She has struggled with her health and has never been particularly popular or brave although she has been known to be sweet and kind.  Her surprising bravery and resourcefulness underlay her strong determination to gain and hold the throne.  She is deeply committed to restoring the power of the Roman Catholic Church which has been out of favor since the Protestant faith was fostered by King Henry VIII. Queen Mary struggles with how to deal with her half sister Elizabeth, caught between her admiration for Elizabeth and her fear and jealousy of her. Mary loses the favor of the people when she falls to the counsel of her advisers who encourage her to marry the Prince of Spain.

    Of course the star of the book is Princess Elizabeth. She is the lively, ethereal beauty who captures the sympathy and support of the people every time they see her.  She is the true puzzler who hides her feelings and masks her dreams and hopes. She is caught in the middle of all the political and religious battles trying to always say just the right thing to stay neutral and not get trapped with conspirators in accusations of treason. So she speaks in riddles and rhymes and takes to her bed when she can’t cope with reality or when she wants to hide from her enemies.  The author portrays her complex intelligence and emotions in a way that evokes feelings of fear, sadness, respect and wonder for the young lady who would be Queen.

    There is intrigue and danger, a touch of romance and lots of jealousy. I really liked how the author manages to weave the political and religious views into Elizabeth’s conversations. I became caught up in the tale by the time the book ended and would like to know what happens in the next book. The reading is not easy but if you like good historical fiction and are willing to work through the riddling dialogue I think you would truly enjoy this book.
    This is the ARC cover

    Thank you to Sourcebooks for the book to read and review.

    TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR THE ARC:

    1. Tell me which cover you like better, the ARC or the final published cover.
    Please leave your e-mail!

    2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

    3. For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

    (Four total entries possible.)
    It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

    * This contest is open US and Canada only.
    * No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
    * This contest will close 10:00 PM (Central) on November 22, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.

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