Friday, October 31, 2014

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Blog Tour: Love's Last Call by Beth Matthews

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Synopsis:
Lucy York is an aspiring mechanical engineer working as a shot girl serving watered-down drinks to drunken frat boys at Jezebel’s Bar & Lounge. The job isn’t so bad—it pays her bills, and she’s managed to make a surrogate family for herself at the bar. But now, at 24, she’s ready to spread her wings and fly north to attend UC Berkeley and, maybe, distance herself a little from the all-consuming social scene at Jezebel’s.

Then her boss hires a new bouncer, Norm, a literature dork who seems like everything a bouncer shouldn’t be: tall, gangly, sweet (and, you know, named Norman). But as she gets to know him, ol’ Norm turns out to be everything Lucy never knew she wanted and the best friend she’s ever had. He’s not a bad bouncer either.

One obstacle to their happily ever after: the owner has a strict no-dating rule for employees. If anyone at Jezebel’s finds out she’s dating a bouncer, Lucy will lose her job, her surrogate family, and the money she needs to go to Berkeley.

But, if she loses Norm, is she losing her best chance at happiness? (Taken from Goodreads)


About the Author:
Beth Matthews is a California girl, born and raised. She’s a total geek, a movie buff, and a mediocre swing dancer. She lives in sunny SoCal with her boyfriend and two of the neediest housecats on the planet.

Giveaway:
Enter for a chance to win a copy of Love's Last Chance, and more!  Enter below!




Quick Facts About the Book:
Genre: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
Release Date: ----
Links: 

Information (about the giveaway):
Start date: October 27, 2014
End date: November 10, 2014
Format of Prizes: Paperback
Information needed to participate: 
  • US Only
  • Read "Terms and Conditions" before entering
This blog tour was organized and supported by "XPRESSO BOOK TOURS"

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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

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LGBT MONTH Giveaway: What They Always Tell Us by Martin Wilson

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Synopsis:
James: Popular, smart, and athletic, James seems to have it all. But the only thing James really wants is his college acceptance letter, so he can get far away from Alabama after high school. He’s tired of the same old parties; the tennis team; his so-called girlfriend, Alice; his ex, Clare – and especially his quiet younger brother, Alex. In a town where secrets are hard to keep, everyone knows what Alex did at the annual back-to-school party. The only question is why.

Alex: With his friends no longer talking to him and his brother constantly in motion, Alex is prepared to get through junior year on his own. And he would, if his ten-year-old neighbor, Henry, didn’t keep showing up, looking for company. Even James seems intrigued by Henry, and by the strange cars that come and go from his house across the street. But what Alex cares most about is running, and when he’s encouraged to try out for cross-country, he’s surprised to find more than just a supportive teammate in his brother’s friend Nathen.

Thoughtful and moving, What They Always Tell Us is a powerful debut novel about the bond between two brothers – and the year that changes everything.
(Taken from Goodreads)

Information (about book):
Author(s): Martin Wilson
Rating (On Goodreads): 3.95
Rating by EBR:  ----
Release Date (Estimation): February 9, 2014
Link to Review on EBR: ----

Information (about giveaway):
Start date: October 28, 2014
End date: November 18, 2014
Format of Prize: Paperback
Information need to participate: 
  • mailing address in proper format (if won)
  • Read "Terms and Conditions" before entering
  • USA Only

*We are not responsible for the damages, lost prize, etc. We are NOT the ones who mail the prize to you, therefore, Ethereal Book Reviews is solely not responsible for anything.

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Sunday, October 26, 2014

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LGBT MONTH Review of Caught in the Crossfire by Juliann Rich

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Synopsis:
Two boys at Bible camp; one forbidden love.

That is the dilemma sixteen-year-old Jonathan Cooper faces when he goes away to Spirit Lake Bible Camp, an oasis for teen believers situated along Minnesota’s rugged north shore. He is expecting a summer of mosquito bites, bonfires with s’mores, and photography classes with Simon, his favorite counselor, who always helps Jonathan see his life in perfect focus.

What he isn’t expecting is Ian McGuire, a new camper who openly argues against phrases like pray the gay away. Ian is certain of many things, including what could happen between them if only Jonathan could surrender to his feelings. Jonathan, however, tosses in a storm of indecision between his belief in God and his inability to stay away from Ian. When a real storm hits and Ian is lost in it, Jonathan is forced to make a public decision that changes his life.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
This was a great book to end my weekend.  Although I didn't see the happy ending I was hoping to find (probably continued in the next book Search for Grace), the ending was quite pleasing to me.  I loved all of the characters, except for that one guy....(readers who have read the book may know who that one guy is...), but they all seemed very realistic, mostly their personalities and reactions to certain situations.  This pleases me because I love characters that reflect normal, real people.  This makes it easier for readers, such as myself, to become engaged into the book.  Another thing I like about this book is how to can easily reveal the plot, and solve it in such a thin book.  I was expecting it to carry onto the next book, but Jonathan and Ian did just get over their first relationship bump pretty quickly.  This leaves the readers to anticipate for more of Jonathan's and Ian's story.  If I ever have more time, I would definitely pick this book up again and read it.  This book holds a lot of potential so I am expecting the next one to be just as amazing.

0 comments:

Saturday, October 25, 2014

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LGBT MONTH Review of Turning 16 by Perie Wolford

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Synopsis:
New Gay Series To Pay Tribute To Sixteen Candles Movie and Other Awesome John Hughes Movies (The Second Edition)

Sam never liked his birthdays because not a single one of them was happy... When he turned 1, he fell face-down into his birthday cake; when he turned 5, he broke his left arm and when he turned 7, he broke his right arm and his left leg; when he turned 12, his house caught fire. Now Sam is about to turn 16 and he is dreading the day. The only birthday wish he has is for Jake who is the Mr. Popular of Arcadia High to even acknowledge his existence, or better yet give him a happy-birthday kiss.

But Sam knows that it’s not gonna happen. Or is it?

Disclaimer: The plot of the books substantially varies from the John Hughes movies and all the references to the movies are made as a tribute to their awesomeness.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I honestly just loved this book because of the simplicity.  There weren't any characters that I had disliked, and Sam was a very likable character.  I feel like almost every teen could relate to this book because of the problems that characters, especially Sam, face.  Not only can this relate to gay people in high school, but this book can also relate to others with different orientations too.  I really can't wait to read the second book and join Sam on another mini adventure again!  It is just one of the cutest books ever, I am definitely going to reread this book again!  I love how Sam has dreams about Jake, then both Jake and Mitch.  It just added a little more spice to the already perfect book.  This is recommended for those who would love to experience their high school love all over again...or if for those who would just want something light and cute to read.

Character:
Sam -
Description of Character: a hopelessly romantic boy with an indestructible sense of wonder and ever-optimistic spirit, who faces difficulties with a sarcastic smile on his face.


Review of Character: Sam was such a likable character, which is one reason why this book deserves 5 stars.  I found him cute, and his indecisiveness just made him a better character.  Why?  This is because many of us teens can relate to Sam.  Whether we are choosing between two future lovers, or two friends, we know what it is like to be torn between two choices.  I love how realistic this book is, and how Sam is relateable to many of us teenagers.  Because Sam is such a realistic character, he has changed the atmosphere of this whole book. 


*Supporting characters not listed

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Friday, October 24, 2014

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LGBT MONTH Author Interview: Perie Wolford

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ADD AUTHOR'S PICTURE ABOVE

About the Author:

Perie Wolford is an optioned and produced screenwriter but he enjoys writing an occasional science fiction novel too. His latest sci-fi book PRESENCE is Available right now in Paperback and Kindle formats. As of 2014 Perie started new Gay/YA series titled Turning 16 (available right now Kindle, Smashwords, Paperback)

Interview:

What made you want to become a writer?
I never really wanted to be a writer actually. I dreamt of cinematography. But movie business is a very tough business to break into. So I thought that maybe screenwriting would be an easier start. So I started writing screenplays and this year is a 10th anniversary of that decision.

As I was writing screenplays, I also became curious about authoring books. And I thought why not? And I have discovered that I really enjoy writing books as well. It’s a different process but it’s really fascinating. And unlike screenwriting, with books you get to have control over what the final product would be like. And being a control-freak I really like that :)
 

Where do you get your inspirations from?
Well, a lot of things can spark inspiration, actually. Sometimes it’s other author’s works, or other movies. Sometimes it can be a colorful dream. Or it can just come from nowhere :)

For instance, with Turning 16 my inspiration was obviously Sixteen Candles movie, and works of John Hughes in general. With Presence, my sci-fi novel, the inspiration was me waking up in the middle of the night and going to get a glass of water and looking out the window on my way... The streets outside were all empty and it was so different from a day time, almost like another world.
 

Other than writing books, what else do you do in your free time?
I’m what you call multi-talented, if I dare to say so myself :) I write screenplays, as I mentioned; I draw covers for my books; I write music to accompany my book trailers, and compose those trailers too; I like to work with visuals and computer graphics; I like photography; I also like to sing and dream of recording an album (but that’s a whole different story); I also programmed my own website periewolford.com (well I majored in computer science so it’s kinda my thing). To summarize, I think I’m fascinated about everything that entertainment industry has to offer and I tried myself in practically all the areas. 

If you could work with another author, who would it be?
Well, Turning 16 was co-written with another author, for starters :) But I guess you mean somebody famous... In MM genre I love Brent Hartinger, the author of Geography Club series, speaking of inspiration. In sci-fi genre, well ultimately Suzanne Collins :) Not only did she manage to write such a phenomenally interesting book as Hunger Games, but she also has a brilliant writing style. I’m so looking forward to whatever YA book she’s working on right now. I wish though that she had written more than 3 books in HG series... I think it was a little selfish of her to stop at three books, why not five or seven :) 

What are major themes of your work?
Major themes... Well, I like happy endings, I like the idea of hope, that everything can work out in the end no matter the hardships... I like to entertain people and give them a distraction from everyday life/problems. More specifically, I’m a big sci-fi nut :) Turning 16 series is like one of the few projects of mine that are not sci-fi. The majority of my projects are connected to aliens in one way or another, because I find the idea of alien life fascinating. Other than that I’m a romantic, so that’s a major element in all my works. 

What do you think people look for in a book?
I know what I’m looking for in a book. I like to be entertained and I like my attention to be grabbed to the point that you can’t put the book down and spend an entire day reading it. Another major thing about books and screenplays alike is uniqueness... The world that you’re building is fictional, but the reader has to be so fascinated (dang, I’m using that word a lot in this interview :) with it that it almost becomes real... The reader shouldn’t feel like what he’s reading was manufactured... The reader has to believe it happened, for real. Like with Hunger Games, again... When you’re reading it, you feel like it’s almost a real chronicle from some real place beyond our reach, it feels real. That’s important for me as a reader and author alike. 

Are there any recent works you admire?
I can’t say that I read a lot of new stuff, unfortunately. I rarely have time and I usually prefer to stick to works that I have already idolized. For instance, The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough, Gone with the Wind, The Ninth Gate and the book it’s been based on, Hunger Games, Divergent, Geography Club, etc.

Questions About the Book (Turning 16):

Which character in the book do you think you can relate to the most?
100% Sam... Because I based this character a little bit on myself. A lot of his experience is my experience and a lot of his thoughts are my thoughts. Although, of course, I’m not 16 anymore... I’m nearly 30. 

How did you come up with the character's names?
Simple... Sam is Samantha Baker, Jake is obviously Jake Ryan from 16 Candles... With other names, well I don’t know... you have to feel the name in a way... like Mitch... when you say it, it rings certain emotions... it almost describes what kind of person you are dealing with. I try to find a name that would be the most appropriate. 

What gave you the inspiration to write this book?
Well, it’s a big story and I have actually written a small article about it. You can check it out here http://periewolford.com/index.php/mm-books/turning-16-series/book-1-turning-16/inspiration-behind-t16
*The questions and answers of this author interview are only for Ethereal Book Reviews to use.  If you would like to get interviewed, please visit our "Contact Us" page and send us an e-mail.

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Monday, October 20, 2014

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LGBT MONTH Review of Fan Art by Sarah Tregay

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Synopsis:
When the picture tells the story…

Senior year is almost over, and Jamie Peterson has a big problem. Not college—that’s all set. Not prom—he’ll find a date somehow. No, it’s the worst problem of all: he’s fallen for his best friend.

As much as Jamie tries to keep it under wraps, everyone seems to know where his affections lie, and the giggling girls in art class are determined to help Jamie get together with Mason. But Jamie isn’t sure if that’s what he wants—because as much as Jamie would like to come clean to Mason, what if the truth ruins everything? What if there are no more road trips, taco dinners, or movie nights? Does he dare risk a childhood friendship for romance?

This book is about what happens when a picture reveals what we can’t say, when art is truer than life, and how falling in love is easy, except when it’s not. Fan Art explores the joys and pains of friendship, of pressing boundaries, and how facing our worst fears can sometimes lead us to what we want most.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I don't know what else to say.  This story was sweet, cute, and just completely adorable!  Each page was definitely worth reading, and I really couldn't put the book down.  I read this book all in one sitting and just couldn't contain my happiness when I finished reading it.  I don't have any problems with the characters in this book.  I loved all of them, they were so dynamic and seemed so real because their personality was so different.  I also love how this book also tackles the LGBT discrimination issue.  Some may not realize it, but it is a big problem in some areas in the world.  This book is both educational and enjoyable in two different ways.  I love this book and I will definitely reread this book whenever I have time.  I didn't see at mistakes in the book at all, and I didn't have to skim through any of the pages in order to get to the end of this book.  I was able to read and enjoy every single word.  This book is one that I would definitely recommend to those who love sweet light stories.  I am hoping that there will be a short story of Jamie and Mason!

Character:
Jamie Peterson -
Description of Character: How about we let the pictures tell the story of Jamie? http://sarahtregay.com/fanart.html


Review of Character: Jamie is probably one of the cutest characters ever.  The way he over thinks and tries to protect his friend just makes him the most adorable character out of every other one.  Jamie had stayed the same throughout the story, but he has so much energy, and one of the best personalities, it had made him seem so real.  I fell in love with his character as the story revealed more about Jamie.  From when he realized he was gay, to the time he fell in love with his best friend.  What could be better than stories that show the character's true personality?  I wouldn't mind learning more about Jamie because he is such an interesting character, one that would hold my interest throughout the whole book.

*Supporting characters not listed

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Sunday, October 19, 2014

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Review of Greater than the Still by Sarah Dayan

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 Synopsis:
     Juliette Laredo never meant to leave an impression on anyone, but in a city of constantly intertwining lives, her impact is greater than she knows. On the brink of deciding to return to a stable career as a mental health counselor or follow her passion as a pastry chef, Juliette’s worries surface when she is faced with a life changing opportunity. 

     More than a dozen unique New Yorkers narrate their own perceptions and feelings of Juliette, as her story is told through their eyes. Greater Than the Still portrays the love, fears, and heartbreaks of New Yorkers as strangers and familiar faces peel back layers of Juliette’s life. It is through their crossed paths that change the course of Juliette’s future. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆

Overall View:
      Greater than the Stills was a truly unique book.  I have never seen or read a book like it.  The book looks at a different perspectives on a single character.  This is truly a unique book as I was given the opportunity to see the different views on Juliette.  The character is an illustration of the lives that people around the world could be going through.  The idea of choosing a career is hard.  As a student, I can see how sometimes my passions and my idea of a stable job is in conflict with each other.  People hang on the balance of future or passion all the time as they stumble through their lives.  I loved how this book mentions this.  It allowed me to connect to the character so much more.

      The reason as to why I gave this book four stars is because, in a way the style of the story was also a weakness.  I found it hard to focus on the book at the beginning.  I couldn't really pinpoint the area in which it made me lose concentration however, I found that it took me a while to get into a trance.  The trance, obviously, lasted until the end of the book as I got into the groove.  However, I was compelled to take a star off due to the beginning.  I have read many books of different genres where the beginning of the book was able to capture the reader at the first sentence.  

      Last but not least, I would like to say how beautiful the cover is.  It truly brings out the content of the book.  I'm a big fan of beautiful pictures so when I see a pretty cover its like the book is telling me to pick it up and read it.  

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0

LGBT MONTH Author Interview: Juliann Rich

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ADD AUTHOR'S PICTURE ABOVE

About the Author:

Minnesota writer Juliann Rich spent her childhood in search of the perfect climbing tree. The taller the better! A branch thirty feet off the ground and surrounded by leaves, caterpillars, birds, and squirrels was a good perch for a young girl to find herself. Seeking truth in nature and finding a unique point of view remain crucial elements in her life as well as her writing.

Juliann is a PFLAG mom who can be found walking Pride parades with her son. She is also the daughter of evangelical Christian parents. As such she has been caught in the crossfire of the most heated topic to challenge our society and our churches today. She is drawn to stories that shed light on the conflicts that arise when sexual orientation, spirituality, family dynamics and peer relationships collide.  You can read more about her journey as an author and as an affirming mom on her website, www.juliannrich.com and her blog, www.therainbowtreeblog.com.

Juliann is the author of two affirmative young adult novels: Caught in the Crossfire and Searching for Grace. She is the 2014 recipient of the Emerging Writer Award from The Saints and Sinners Literary Festival and lives with her husband and their two dogs, Mr. Sherlock Holmes and Ms. Bella Moriarty, in the beautiful Minnesota River Valley. 

Look for her third book, Taking the Stand, releasing from Bold Strokes Books in 2015!
Interview:
What made you want to become a writer?
Being a reader. Seriously, I devoured books as a kid and I still do. They were and remain the portals to worlds that are far more interesting and vibrant than the day-to-day reality I live. I’m quite certain my desire to write was born by reveling in other peoples’ words.

Where do you get your inspirations from?

Everywhere! I can hear a snippet of a conversation, be in an atmospheric setting, read a headline in a newspaper and find story fuel. But real inspiration? The kind that wakes me in the middle of the night and drives me toward my computer? That always comes from some deep place within myself where I’ve encountered some truth and fallen in love with it.

Other than writing books, what else do you do in your free time?

I work part-time at a clinic, which is great because it forces me to interact with people—REAL people—and that’s so necessary to balance the internal time I spend with my characters. Also, helping others just plain makes me happy. In my truly “free” time, I enjoy hanging out with my family, my dogs, and my friends. I also try to etch out some time each week to be alone with myself in order to be able to recognize my own voice in a very noisy world.

If you could work with another author, who would it be?
This is SUCH a hard question because I am a big fan of so many writers, but if I have to pick just one it’s going to be Neil Gaiman. I have long been a fan of his work (The Ocean at the End of the Lane – WOW!), but it’s the way Neil approaches his life and his art that I would like to observe first-hand. Neil has tremendous reverence for the creative process and I would love to learn more about how he nurtures and honors his inner artist.

What are major themes of your work?

I am fascinated by the journey toward the authentic self. We are born and grow and live in a society that has countless ways to assign value and determine success. And yet, all that is external. An individual seeking personal truth must, at some point, ask and answer the question, “Who am I?” and that is the one theme that surfaces in every book and story I write.

What do you think people look for in a book?

Entertainment, escape, inspiration? All are fine answers to your question, but I’m not sure I can speak for what “people” look for in a book. However, I do know what I look for in a book.  I look for the opportunity to ride in the sidecar with a skilled driver at the wheel and a compelling travel companion to care about. Ultimately, I always open a book with the hope that I will be embarking on a journey that will leave me spent and satisfied by the time we reach our destination.

Are there any recent works you admire?

A new favorite book of mine is Silhouette of a Sparrow by Molly Beth Griffin, which came out in 2012. It is a perfectly crafted book set in 1920 about a girl named Garnet who falls in love with a flapper. I have SO much love for this beautifully written and moving book. 

Questions About the Book (Caught in the Crossfire Trilogy):
Which character in the book do you think you can relate to the most? 
Without a doubt, I relate to Garnet. Though my journey is different than hers, I understand her feeling like an ordinary sparrow in a world populated by exotically beautiful birds. 

How did you come up with the character's names?
Naming characters is the bane of my existence. Some come to me already named, which is lovely. Others are plucked from phone books. Seriously. I especially loathe trying to give characters last names. I feel the inside of a character long before I get to the external details of their lives. 

What gave you the inspiration to write this book?
Caught in the Crossfire, the first book in The Crossfire Trilogy, came to me first through my main character, Jonathan Cooper. He showed up one day in the quiet places of my life where my imagination hangs out and he was so full of love and faith and pain that I couldn’t resist finding out what happened next. That desire to discover whether he reached his destination on his journey toward authenticity has driven me every step of the way.

*The questions and answers of this author interview are only for Ethereal Book Reviews to use.  If you would like to get interviewed, please visit our "Contact Us" page and send us an e-mail.

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Saturday, October 18, 2014

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Giveaway: Hope in the Rain by Sandy Sinnett

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Synopsis:
As a little girl, Laci Kramer always found hope in the rain and believed that good things would follow it. But after losing her husband, she has trouble seeing the good in anything except her four kids and her job...until one rainy day when she boards a plane and something good sits
down beside her.

Mitch is from North Carolina and lost his wife a few years ago. And on that short flight, Laci becomes an unexpected surprise that he can’t resist. An old-fashioned courtship brings their love to life, but is it strong enough to last when threatened by her uncertain future?

Can Laci’s faith help her overcome the fear of what lies ahead and give Mitch her whole heart? Or will she let him go to spare him from repeating a horrible pain from his past.

Laci will lose hope in love, and life...until it rains.
(Taken from Goodreads)

Information (about book):
Author(s): Sandy Sinnett
Rating (On Goodreads): 4.67
Rating by EBR:
Release Date (Estimation): April 22, 2014
Information (about giveaway):
Start date: October 18, 2014
End date: November 8, 2014
Format of Prize: Paperback
Information need to participate: 
  • mailing address in proper format (if won)
  • Read "Terms and Conditions" before entering
  • US and Canada only

*We are not responsible for the damages, lost prize, etc. We are NOT the ones who mail the prize to you, therefore, Ethereal Book Reviews is solely not responsible for anything.

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Friday, October 17, 2014

0

Review of Hope in the Rain by Sandy Sinnett

Posted in , ,
Synopsis:
‘But as I stood there, feeling the pain of unfulfilled dreams, all I could do was cry harder and harder, inconsolable as I thought about the uncertain future in front of me. My hot tears mingled with the cold rain and I shouted up into the sky – calling out for him, praying he would hear me somehow. I’m so sorry I let you go – I’m sorry I didn’t tell you! I love you!’

Laci Kramer believes that good things follow the rain – how it washes away the old and brings in the new. Since losing her husband of 24 years, her life revolves around her kids and her job. But on one rainy day in July, aboard a flight back home, something good sits down right next to her and changes her life forever.

Mitch Young is a widower from North Carolina. Hope is a useless commodity since losing his wife to breast cancer three years ago. That's until he meets Laci, and she becomes an unexpected surprise he can't resist. Laci and Mitch both learn to love again and an old-fashioned romance ensues. Romance meets reality however, when their relationship falls under scrutiny from Mitch's family and Laci is faced with the toughest challenge of her life.

Will she allow God to see them through the storms ahead or will she let Mitch go to spare him from repeating the same pain from his past? Laci begins to lose hope in love and life...until it rains.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★☆☆

Overall View:
I am honestly not sure what I want to say about this book.  Although I did enjoy it, there were just some parts that I found a little boring, or irritating.  I loved the characters, but Laci just got onto my nerves at times.  I didn't understand why she did what she did at times, and I felt as if she hadn't matured or developed at all until the end of the book.  I admire the fact that Mitch pulled through, even during the storms, because I can only imagine how hard it was for him.  I also liked Evan and Caleb's characters.  They did a good job as supporting characters, compared to Mitch's brother.  What I didn't like about the book was how long it took for the readers to see the problem.  I had to read over half of the book to find out what the big problem is, which was them crammed into a few chapters, and was resolved in about two or three pages.  Although the plot of the book is simple, yet interesting enough for me to pick up the book, the book just started out really slowly.  I began to scan through a few of the pages, just because I was really excited to find out where the action will begin.  Overall, this was a very sweet and loving story, but its not something that I would crave about too much.

Character:
Laci -
Description of Character: Laci has lots her husband a few years ago in a car accident, and all she has left are her children.  Laci is an upbeat woman who is willing to sacrifice anything for her children.  When grieve strikes her, she feels like she is unable to find love again, but then she meets Mitch.  She quickly falls in love again, but is unsure whether or not it will work out.


Review of Character: I tried my best to like Laci but it was difficult at times because of her stubbornness.  Is that a good thing?  Maybe.  I loved the sweet romance between Laci and Mitch.  Their love story was very believable is certain aspects, but most of it was very predictable.  Its hard to say a lot without having to spoil the story, but Laci does progress a little throughout the story.  She is a great character, although I wasn't in love with her.  She is very strong, which is different from many books because they always portray female protagonists as "weak".  As you can tell, I had a difficult time assessing Laci because I honestly have two different opinions about her.

*Supporting characters not listed

0 comments:

Thursday, October 16, 2014

0

Review of Shameless by Nina Lemay

Posted in , ,
Synopsis:
Girls like me don’t get happy endings.

I know what I am. At worst a cliché, at best a cautionary tale. I put an international border between me and my past, only to wind up working in a low-end titty bar. Even my excuse is as lame as it gets: I’m paying for college, getting my art degree from Montreal’s most prestigious school. Although some days it becomes confusing: am I just a student who moonlights as a stripper, or a stripper who masquerades as a student?

But the inevitable happens and my two lives collide. And now there’s one other person who knows both the quiet, antisocial Hannah and the sensual, shameless Alicia. One person who keeps my secret.

He’s beautiful, he’s sophisticated. He comes from the other side of life, the one where I’m not wanted or accepted. But he calls me la petite Américaine, and his hot, hot hands on my skin promise me things I long ago gave up on.

The problem? He teaches my Classic Photography class.

This is a standalone novel, no series, no cliffhanger.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★★☆


Overall View:
This was quite an interesting story, one that I have not read before.  Although I found Hannah a little irritating at times, I adored Emmanuel.  He was probably one of the sweetest guys in stories ever.  Hannah hadn't appealed to me as much as I wanted her to because I felt as if she felt sorry for herself all the time.  She pushed away those who wanted to help her, such as Emmanuel, and that really bothered me.  Although she seems like a very strong character, the fact that she can't accept what happened in the past just makes her weak.  The only time when I enjoyed reading about her character was near the end when she talked to Emmanuel.  By then, she made a big change and was able to accept herself for what has happened to her.  Overall, I liked the plot and how the story progressed.  I did not notice any grammar mistakes, etc. so that makes me pretty happy.  Other than Hannah's character, I enjoyed this book, and the sweet little moments that were shared by Emmanuel and Hannah.  If you don't mind reading about a stripper, and a hot teacher, you better pick up this book now!

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Review of Pretty Girl by Amy Heugh

Posted in ,
Synopsis:
If there were one day that she could change it would be the day she was taken.

After her parents’ divorce, seventeen-year-old Izzy Scott and her mother move to the old town of St. Augustine to begin a new life, a life beyond the media attention and the memories of the traumatic experiences that left an everlasting affect on their family.

The former ballerina is trying to adjust to the outside world without suffering a panic attack and exposing who she is - all while getting through her senior year at a new school. That’s easy to say until she meets local boy Mason Winchester, a boy with a tragic past.

Mason has a reputation for violence, but a love for motorcycles. At the age of eleven he lost his mother to cancer and from then he has been running from something, but could never really get away.

Like any other angry teenager, he just wants to be left alone and to have nothing to do with anyone else because he believed that he had nothing to offer. That changes the moment he saw what was in the new girl eyes.

Tragedy wasn't new to either of their lives but among the secrets and the memories the one thing they both never excepted was to find hope.

*This book is recommended for readers 18+ for violence, language, and some adult situations.*
(Taken from Goodreads)


Stars Given:★★★★☆

Overall View:
I loved this book.  Although there were quite a few spelling/grammar mistakes, this book was placed together with care, and the product?  Perfect.  Magnificent.  Although Izzy, at times, had a few disliking qualities, both Izzy and Mason were just lovable.  The pity I felt for both made my heart ache as their individual stories began to unfold.  This book isn't all about love.  It is about getting over the past, and starting new again.  The title is just perfect.  Although it was deceiving at first, I had become quite fond of the title and the cover of the book.  It connected well with the story, and the theme was pulled throughout the story.  Laughter and tears were shed throughout the story, which had made the characters really come to life.  I admit, I did cry near the ending, but that is all I can say without spoiling the book.

Although the plot was shown a little later in the book, I had really enjoyed Izzy and Mason's story (I was hoping for an epilogue, but was later disappointed...).  Not only did I find their story heart wrenching, but these two characters have taught me something to keep in mind.  No matter what happens, move on.   This book is full of emotions and is highly recommended to sophisticated readers.  Like the warning of the book in the synopsis, this book is highly recommended for someone who is able to read through some (or a lot) violence, foul language, and adult situations.  My only criticism for this book would be getting an editor for it.  Maybe I got the wrong or unedited version, but there were noticeable spelling and grammar errors.  For someone like me, a mistake would kidnap my attention from the story.  Other than that, I am more than happy to reread this book a hundred times, maybe even a thousand if I can.  Perfect book, with "perfect" characters.

*Supporting characters not listed

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Featured Book: Hope in the Rain by Sandy Sinnett

Posted in ,
Synopsis:
‘But as I stood there, feeling the pain of unfulfilled dreams, all I could do was cry harder and harder, inconsolable as I thought about the uncertain future in front of me. My hot tears mingled with the cold rain and I shouted up into the sky – calling out for him, praying he would hear me somehow. I’m so sorry I let you go – I’m sorry I didn’t tell you! I love you!’

Laci Kramer believes that good things follow the rain – how it washes away the old and brings in the new. Since losing her husband of 24 years, her life revolves around her kids and her job. But on one rainy day in July, aboard a flight back home, something good sits down right next to her and changes her life forever.

Mitch Young is a widower from North Carolina. Hope is a useless commodity since losing his wife to breast cancer three years ago. That's until he meets Laci, and she becomes an unexpected surprise he can't resist. Laci and Mitch both learn to love again and an old-fashioned romance ensues. Romance meets reality however, when their relationship falls under scrutiny from Mitch's family and Laci is faced with the toughest challenge of her life.

Will she allow God to see them through the storms ahead or will she let Mitch go to spare him from repeating the same pain from his past? Laci begins to lose hope in love and life...until it rains.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Information:
Title: Hope in the Rain
Author(s): Sandy Sinnett
Smashwords: ----
Average Stars (from Goodreads): 4.67

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Wednesday, October 15, 2014

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Author Interview: Sandy Sinnett

Posted in , ,


PICTURE UNAVAILABLE

About the Author:

Sandy Sinnett is the epitome of a hopeless romantic. At a very young age, from the very first TV episode of ‘The Love Boat’, she was hooked on the idea of the ultimate love story! Her passion for reading love stories, and a quiet addiction to Hallmark movies, now fuels her passion to write. 

Sandy was born in Mt. Vernon, IL. She did some journaling in high school and college, and filled several books of poetry during that time, but never had aspirations to write anything more. She met her husband, Monty, in college and started a family. Once the first baby was born, the journaling stopped and parenting began! The couple lived in Missouri for many years prior to her husband joining the Army in 2004. During her husband’s recent deployment to Afghanistan, Sandy felt the inspiration to write a short story, which eventually turned into her first novel.

Shortly after she completed the book, Sandy and her friend Laura visited North Carolina to celebrate and even attended a Hickory Crawdad baseball game. The team was very flattered to hear of Sandy’s mention of them in her book and her book will now be stocked in their team store.

Sandy currently works as a Marketing Specialist for a local bank and volunteers as an event planner for several local non-profit organizations in Olympia, WA. She lives with her husband and four kids. This is her debut novel and she is already at work on the sequel.


Interview:

What made you want to become a writer?
I wanted to write because I love to tell stories and use my imagination. A coworker encouraged meto write my first book after listening to one of my stories that I had made up from a dream. Writing gave me the ability to elaborate on those stories and create a world that would invite others inside.


Where do you get your inspirations from?
Most of my inspiration comes from my own life experience – places I’ve visited, jobs I’ve held, aspects of my own childhood, etc. I also like watching others around me and turning their experiences into fiction.
Other than writing books, what else do you do in your free time?

I love to read. A writer that doesn’t read would be doomed in my opinion. I also love to hang out
with my husband and kids, and I love to make coffee! I’m a barista at my church and have a significant addiction to coffee, so it works out well for me.

If you could work with another author, who would it be?

I would have to say Cassandra Clare. I love writing romance, but I love reading YA novels even
more! She did an amazing job capturing the details of a post-modern Europe in the prequel to the Mortal Instruments. The way she describes a scene is outstanding! My second choice would be Eileen Goudge – the Audrey Hepburn of writing in my book. Her writing is graceful and her personality (via Twitter) seems to match. Her writing style is clear and precise – and she manages to build a stage that draws the reader in from the very first paragraph. One day, I hope to be half as talented as these two ladies.

What are major themes of your work?

In my debut novel, ‘hope’ is the main theme. Ultimately, this theme drives home the belief that people do get second chances, both in love and in life, and to never give up on keeping hope alive.
What do you think people look for in a book?

An emotional connection – it needs to tell a story that they can get lost in and allow them to travel to a place that they would not ordinarily go. I think people want a story that reaches the innermost parts of their psyche, their soul, their heart, and transforms their ordinary into extraordinary. I know I’ve made a connection to the book when I feel sad once I’m finished reading, and I yearn for more.
Are there any recent works you admire?

I’d have to say Cassandra Clare’s Infernal Devices series – ‘Clockwork Prince’ being my favorite, as well as her Mortal Instruments series – my favorite was ‘City of Ashes’. I’ve also recently come to love the writings of Eileen Goudge in her first novel, Garden of Lies. It’s an intense story that has kept me glued to the pages!
Questions About the Book (Hope in the Rain):

Which character in the book do you think you can relate to the most?
I would have to say Laci, the main character. Everything about her, apart from the breast cancer experience, is derived from my own life. I’m naturally a flibbertigibbet, so I tried to pass along some of that in her as well. She’s a fun character.
How did you come up with the character's names?

Most of the names are a variation of a real person that I know and whom I based that character’s profile. For example, Lena is a variation of ‘Gaylene’, Gail is a variation of ‘Abigail’, etc. It was important that the character’s name match their true personality and keep it intact. If I couldn’t achieve that with a variation, then I simply used their real name, because that was the only name that did the character justice in the end.
What gave you the inspiration to write this book?
The book was first inspired on a flight returning from my hometown, I just didn’t know it at the time. I sat next to a nice gentleman from North Carolina who shared his love of baseball and a minor league baseball team called the Hickory Crawdads. He simply lit the initial ‘spark’ that helped me write a story that was already inside, waiting for the right moment to come out. A year after I met him, I had a dream about him and decided to write a short love story using his persona as the male character.

However, not long after I started writing, I realized that the true inspiration of the book was my best friend, Laura Tinnin-Lewis, and her personal battle with breast cancer. I used Laura’s real-life experience in the story as a way to honor her. I also wanted to use this book as a way to bring awareness to the importance of annual exams to promote the early detection of breast cancer. My new phrase is now #Early Detection=HOPE!

*The questions and answers of this author interview are only for Ethereal Book Reviews to use.  If you would like to get interviewed, please visit our "Contact Us" page and send us an e-mail.

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Tuesday, October 14, 2014

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Book Promotion: Hope in the Rain by Sandy Sinnett

Posted in , ,
Synopsis:
‘But as I stood there, feeling the pain of unfulfilled dreams, all I could do was cry harder and harder, inconsolable as I thought about the uncertain future in front of me. My hot tears mingled with the cold rain and I shouted up into the sky – calling out for him, praying he would hear me somehow. I’m so sorry I let you go – I’m sorry I didn’t tell you! I love you!’

Laci Kramer believes that good things follow the rain – how it washes away the old and brings in the new. Since losing her husband of 24 years, her life revolves around her kids and her job. But on one rainy day in July, aboard a flight back home, something good sits down right next to her and changes her life forever.

Mitch Young is a widower from North Carolina. Hope is a useless commodity since losing his wife to breast cancer three years ago. That's until he meets Laci, and she becomes an unexpected surprise he can't resist. Laci and Mitch both learn to love again and an old-fashioned romance ensues. Romance meets reality however, when their relationship falls under scrutiny from Mitch's family and Laci is faced with the toughest challenge of her life.

Will she allow God to see them through the storms ahead or will she let Mitch go to spare him from repeating the same pain from his past? Laci begins to lose hope in love and life...until it rains.
(Taken from Goodreads)


Information About the Book:
Author: Sandy Sinnett

Link to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20707603-hope-in-the-rain

Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises LLC
Release Date: April 22, 2014
Links to Buy:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Hope-Rain-Sandy-Sinnett-ebook/dp/B00J4P7RWQ/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1409852610
Tate Publishing: https://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=9781630635442
Average Rating (from Goodreads): 4.67

Rating from EBR: 3.00

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Monday, October 13, 2014

0

Featured Author: Sandy Sinnett

Posted in , ,


PICTURE UNAVAILABLE
About the Author:
Sandy Sinnett is the epitome of a hopeless romantic. At a very young age, from the very first TV episode of ‘The Love Boat’, she was hooked on the idea of the ultimate love story! Her passion for reading love stories, and a quiet addiction to Hallmark movies, now fuels her passion to write. 

Sandy was born in Mt. Vernon, IL. She did some journaling in high school and college, and filled several books of poetry during that time, but never had aspirations to write anything more. She met her husband, Monty, in college and started a family. Once the first baby was born, the journaling stopped and parenting began! The couple lived in Missouri for many years prior to her husband joining the Army in 2004. During her husband’s recent deployment to Afghanistan, Sandy felt the inspiration to write a short story, which eventually turned into her first novel.

Shortly after she completed the book, Sandy and her friend Laura visited North Carolina to celebrate and even attended a Hickory Crawdad baseball game. The team was very flattered to hear of Sandy’s mention of them in her book and her book will now be stocked in their team store.

Sandy currently works as a Marketing Specialist for a local bank and volunteers as an event planner for several local non-profit organizations in Olympia, WA. She lives with her husband and four kids. This is her debut novel and she is already at work on the sequel.


Other Information:

Books Written:
  • Hope in the Rain
Link to Goodreads Account: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7814154.Sandy_Sinnett
Most Popular Book (by the ratings on Goodreads): Hope in the Rain 
Blog: www.sandysinnett.com
Link to Author Interview: http://etherealbookreviews.blogspot.com/2014/10/picture-unavailable-about-sandy-sinnett.html

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Sunday, October 12, 2014

0

LGBT MONTH Featured Books: Caught in a Crossfire, Searching for Grace, and Taking a Stand by Juliann Rich

Posted in , , , ,
Synopsis:

Two boys at bible camp. One forbidden love. 

That’s the dilemma Jonathan Cooper faces when he goes away to Spirit Lake Bible Camp, situated along Minnesota’s rugged north shore, for a summer of fun. He is expecting mosquito bites, bonfires with s’mores, and photography classes with Simon, his favorite counselor who always helps him see life in perfect focus.

What he isn’t expecting is Ian McGuire, a new camper who openly argues against phrases like pray the gay away. Ian is certain of many things, including what could happen between them if only Jonathan could surrender to his feelings.

Jonathan, however, tosses in a storm of indecision between his belief in God and his inability to stay away from Ian. When a real storm hits and Ian is lost in it, Jonathan is forced to make a public decision that changes his life.

Information: 
Title: Caught in the Crossfire
Author(s): Juliann Rich


Synopsis:
First it's a rumor.  Then it's a fact.  And then it's on.  Camp is over and Jonathan Cooper returns home.  To life with his mother whose silence is worse than anything she could say...to his varsity soccer teammates at East Bay Christian Academy...to the growing rumors about what he did with a boy last summer at bible camp.

All the important lines blur. Between truth and lies. Between friends and enemies. Between reality and illusion. 
  
Just when Jonathan feels the most alone, help arrives from the unlikeliest of sources: Frances “Sketch” Mallory, the weird girl from his art class, and her equally eccentric friend, Mason. For a short while, thanks to Sketch and Mason, life is almost survivable. Then Ian McGuire comes to town on the night of the homecoming dance and tensions explode. Fists fly, blood flows, and Jonathan—powerless to stop it—does the only thing he believes might save them all: he prays for God’s grace.

Information: 
Title: Searching for Grace
Author(s): Juliann Rich
Smashwords: ----
Bold Strokes Books: ----
Average Stars (from Goodreads): 0.00 (not released)



Synopsis:
There’s a time for justice. Then there’s a time for taking the stand.
And Jonathan Cooper knows exactly what time it is.
It is time to tip the scales of justice in favor of his boyfriend, Ian McGuire, who is facing the charge of Assault and Battery.

 It is time to lie. To his parents, who think he’s on a ski trip with Pete Mitchell when he’s really in Madison searching for one person willing to testify on Ian’s behalf. To Ian’s parents, who have erased Ian from their lives. Even to himself. Because admitting his feelings for Mason Kellerman isn’t an option.

It is also time to face the truth. That Jonathan may have gone all the way to Madison for nothing. That he may be powerless to save Ian from a guilty verdict. That whether he likes it or not, it is time for him to TAKE THE STAND.

 Information: 
Title: Taking the Stand
Author(s): Juliann Rich
Average Stars (from Goodreads): 0.00 (Anticipated release date: April, 2015)

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