Embracing Your Imperfections

For anyone who's read my YA romance, Perfectly Imperfect, you know it deals quite a bit with imperfections and learning to accept them. If you haven't read it yet--spoiler alert!--it deals with imperfections and learning to accept them :) 

In the book, Isabelle is dealing with the grief of losing her brother and the fallout that this death has caused, namely, the impact it's had on her family. Her mother has turned to alcohol to cope while her father has thrown himself into work. All of that leaves Isabelle on her own a lot. But she's much too embarrassed to admit to anyone just how much of a train wreck her life currently is. So, she hides it. She builds this carefully constructed facade to make everyone believe her life is picture perfect, while also trying to obtain personal perfection in everything that she does. 

Why? 

Because she feels like a failure, like she somehow failed her brother's memory by allowing her family to fall apart. And because she's worried people will judge her if they know the truth. At one point in the book, the boy she really likes, Grayson, says this to her:

"No one is perfect, Belle, and God doesn’t expect us to be. Every one of us is so perfectly imperfect. That’s what makes us all so unique."

That line really resonated with me on so many levels, but most of all, it made me take a closer look at myself and my own imperfections. 

We all have things we don't like about ourselves--especially right now. Hello, dreaded bathing suit season. LOL. 

 

via GIPHY

So, I'm going to be real vulnerable with all of you right now and tell you a couple of my biggest imperfections and how, since writing this book, I've been attempting to adjust my perception of them. 

1. Body Image: I've always been on the smaller side. All through high school, I was 5'4" and 110 pounds. As I got older and started having kids, my height, unfortunately, remained the same, but my weight slowly increased. Last year, I was at my heaviest ever--186 pounds. I hated how I looked and felt. So, I began a weight loss journey and dropped 52 pounds. I feel so much better, but every day when I look in the mirror, I still see all the areas where I could stand to lose another 5 or 10 pounds or places that could stand to be toned a bit more. 

To be clear, I don't for one second perceive my weight to be an imperfection. It's how I view it and myself that's my imperfection here. I'm way too hard on myself, easily forgetting that I LOST 52 POUNDS! That's a heck of an achievement, and I have to remind myself of that quite a bit, especially on the days when I'm particularly hard on myself. And as my husband so gently reminds me every time I get down on myself: "I'm a 41 year old woman who's had 5 kids and lived life. I have nothing to be ashamed of." And he's right. 

2. Perfectionism: Like Isabelle in my book, I tend to be a perfectionist. Whether I'm editing or writing or doing, well, just about anything else, I strive to do whatever I'm doing perfect the first time. And if I don't, I feel like I've somehow failed. And woo boy, talk about stress! This is a big reason I hadn't been able to finish a book in so long (prior to this year) because I was constantly worried about what I was doing wrong and fixing it rather than just getting the words on the page. It took me quite a while--and a lot of awesome writing friends--reminding me that it doesn't need to be perfect; it just needs to be done, and that as long as I'm giving it my best effort, that's all that matters. 

Ultimately, my goal with this book was for readers to walk away feeling better about themselves, to know that whatever imperfections they're dealing with don't make them bad or less than. They make them unique and loved. 

So, time to be honest...

What're your imperfections? How do you deal with them? 

Share your story in the comments!

Isabelle Carson is charging into her senior year equipped with a handy checklist to ensure nothing goes awry. Things she didn't account for: a hot, new guy who almost runs her over, a messed up class schedule, and a boyfriend who dumps her for one of her best friends. All of that pales in comparison to the threat of her dirty family secrets breaking free from the perfect façade she’s diligently maintained since the death of her brother.

Grayson Alexander is on his fourth school in as many years. Lakewood Valley High is exactly like all the others, with one shiny exception: Isabelle Carson. She’s smart, funny, beautiful— the perfect package. But Isabelle is hiding something, and Grayson is determined to do whatever it takes to win her trust, except step foot in another hypocritical church.

As Isabelle’s life spirals out of control and her carefully crafted, picture-perfect image begins to shatter, Grayson does what no one else can: he makes her laugh and allows her to be imperfect. With rekindled faith, Isabelle sets out to right all the wrongs in her life. But Grayson has been damaged by his own family secrets, and Isabelle will have to decide if the boy she’s falling for more and more each day is a right or a wrong.

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{COVER REVEAL}: PERFECTLY IMPERFECT

I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS COVER!!!!

*deep breaths*

So, this book was never meant to be written. I'd had the idea and it was tumbling around in my head, but I was trying so hard to focus on finishing my Corbins Series, but this particular book wouldn't leave me alone. I started hearing all this fun, snarky dialogue, and it was becoming harder and harder to ignore. Finally, one of my best writing friends told me "follow your muse." Naturally, I listened to her. And then I started writing PERFECTLY IMPERFECT.

I wrote this book in less than 3 months--the fastest I've ever written a full-length novel. This is one of those books that came to me fully formed, and it was probably the easiest thing I ever have or ever will write. I love Grayson and Isabelle so much, and I hope you all will, too.

All right, enough rambling. Here's the gorgeous cover....

Tear up your checklist for a perfect senior year and 

get ready for a wild ride on the perfectly imperfect side.

BLURB:

Isabelle Carson is charging into her senior year equipped with a handy checklist to ensure nothing goes awry. Things she didn't account for: a hot, new guy who almost runs her over, a messed up class schedule, and a boyfriend who dumps her for one of her best friends. All of that pales in comparison to the threat of her dirty family secrets breaking free from the perfect façade she’s diligently maintained since the death of her brother.

Grayson Alexander is on his fourth school in as many years. Lakewood Valley High is exactly like all the others, with one shiny exception: Isabelle Carson. She’s smart, funny, beautiful— the perfect package. But Isabelle is hiding something, and Grayson is determined to do whatever it takes to win her trust, except step foot in another hypocritical church.

As Isabelle’s life spirals out of control and her carefully crafted, picture-perfect image begins to shatter, Grayson does what no one else can: he makes her laugh and allows her to be imperfect. With rekindled faith, Isabelle sets out to right all the wrongs in her life. But Grayson has been damaged by his own family secrets, and Isabelle will have to decide if the boy she’s falling for more and more each day is a right or a wrong.

COMING MAY 2020

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{TEASER TUESDAY}: Torn, Chapter One

In celebration of an awesome cover reveal yesterday (a huge thank you to everyone who posted, shared and tweeted. Your support means the world to me!) and because today is Teaser Tuesday.... I give you the complete first chapter of TORN: THE GEORGIA CORBINS, Book 1

~ Chapter 1~

Levi Corbin

I sat at the lab table directly behind Ali Philips and Brody Nash. My jaw clenched as I listened to them beg Mrs. Dolgen to let them be lab partners. Were they dating? The thought made my stomach sink to the floor. So much had changed since I’d last been in Haldeen, almost three years ago now.

I looked around the room without making eye contact with anyone. Immediately, I noticed Shelby Blake. My heart ached with guilt at the thought of poor Ali fending for herself against the likes of Shelby. Although, if Ali was in fact dating Brody, then I had to assume Shelby was leaving Ali alone. Everyone always bowed to Brody and what he wanted. He was the type of guy every other guy wanted to be friends with and every girl wanted to date. I just never thought Ali would be one of those girls.

My gaze settled back on Ali. Her golden blonde hair stopped in the middle of her back. When I’d left, her hair had been short, a pixie cut she’d called it. I definitely liked it better now. Her long, tanned legs were showcased by the denim skirt that hugged her hips. A fitted, short-sleeved shirt clung to her torso, and brown cowboy boots came up to the bottom of her calves. I let my gaze rake up her body and down again, lingering on the spot where the hem of her skirt met her bare legs. She shifted, leaned forward on the lab table, and I fought to stifle a groan. 

“I must be going blind. Is that Levi Corbin I see sitting back there?”

I looked toward the sound of my name. Jimmie Allen walked toward me. He hadn’t changed a bit since I’d last seen him. His large head was still covered with jet black hair, and his eyes were still a size too small for his face.

“Hey Jimmie,” I said. And then, all at once, all eyes were on me. Perfect.

“Mr. Vincent, you’re late. Please take a seat and stop disrupting my class,” Mrs. Dolgen said.

“Yes, ma’am.” Jimmie Allen took the seat next to me. “So, what dragged you back to little ‘ole Haldeen?”

“Stuff.” I shifted my gaze back to Ali, hoping Jimmie Allen would get the hint I didn’t want to talk. She had turned around. One hand was propped on the lab table and the other on her cocked hip. Against my better instincts, I met her stare and swallowed the lump in my throat. “Hey, Al.”

I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. She was stunning. Al had gone and grown up on me. She turned around without saying anything, and I knew she was angry. I couldn’t blame her.

Mrs. Dolgen closed the classroom door and cleared her throat. She wrote an equation on the board and then turned to face the class. “Page two seventy of your lab books, problems seven through fifteen.”

A collective groan rippled through the room.

“I could give you a few more problems to work on if you’d like.” The room quieted, and the only sound was of Mrs. Dolgen’s heels clicking against the tiled floor as she made her way toward the back of the room. “Mr. Corbin, please come get a book.”

I stood and retrieved the lab book Mrs. Dolgen held out to me. When I turned to go back to my seat, I caught Ali staring at me. I smiled, hoping maybe she would finally talk to me, but she quickly averted her gaze. I sat down next to Jimmie Allen, opened the book, and looked over the assigned problems.

“Shut up.” Ali giggled and bumped her hip against Brody’s.

The sound of her laugh drew my attention, and I scowled at the sight of them whispering, of Brody putting his arm around Ali’s waist and drawing her closer to him.

“I’ll do the first half of these if you want to do the second half,” Jimmie Allen said.

I tore my gaze from Ali and gave my attention to the task at hand, but concentration was difficult when every so often, she would laugh. And I swore if Brody touched her one more time…

“Brody, don’t you dare!” Ali said.

“Ali and Brody, do we have a problem?” Mrs. Dolgen’s shrill voice cut through the room.

“No, ma’am,” they chimed in unison.

“Good. Let’s keep it that way.”

I refocused my attention back on the problems in front of me and breezed through them rather easily, but my thoughts once again drifted to Ali. I had to talk to her, try to make her understand. If she would just let me apologize, things could go back to the way they used to be.

“So, Levi,” Brody turned to face me, “is Tucker back, too?”

What kind of dumbass question was that? “Of course he is.” I noticed the way Ali hung her head, and her shoulders slumped. Talk about an odd reaction. I thought for sure she’d be happy to see us again.

The bell rang, and Ali was out of the room before I could even close my book. I rushed out after her, but by the time I made my way into the hallway, it was crowded and hard to find her. When I finally did spot her, I didn’t waste any time going to her. 

I cautiously approached where she stood at her locker. I reached out to touch her, but thought better of it and clenched my hand into a fist, dropping it to my side. “Hey, Al, got a minute?”

She spun around and faced me, anger blazing behind her blue eyes. “I’m sorry, do I know you?”

Ouch, that was harsh. “I guess I deserved that.”

Ali looked away, refusing to acknowledge my presence.

“Look, Al, I’m real sorry. Can you please let me explain?” My heart thundered in my ears. I had no idea what I’d do if she didn’t let me explain.

“I’ve been waiting two years. This had best be good.” She clutched her books to her chest and tapped her foot, the rhythm of her impatience spurring me on.

I took a deep, shaky breath and licked my lips. “Dad wouldn’t let us visit. He said he didn’t want to worry about cleaning up after our trouble making ways.”

“And your Momma wouldn’t let you use the phone? Or did you just forget how?”

I cringed. Had she always been this feisty? “I have no excuse for that.” I shoved my hands in my pockets so I wouldn’t be tempted to touch her and stared at the ground. “I’m sorry, Al.” God, I was royally messing this up.

“And what’s Tucker’s excuse?” She shifted her weight, her eyebrows drawing together in a scowl.

“He doesn’t have one either.”

“I gotta get to class.” She turned her back on me again and proceeded to walk away.

“Ali!”

She stopped cold and stood there with her head down and her back still to me. Everything felt like it was in slow motion, the sounds of students going to class dulled to a barely audible hum.  I’d never called her Ali before. For as long as I’d known her, she had always been just Al, one of the boys. But now, standing there, staring at the back of her, she was no longer one of the boys. It was a hard truth for me to swallow, but one I couldn’t deny. Slowly, she lifted her head and continued to walk away. I watched until she disappeared into the crowd.

Well, that hadn’t gone as I’d hoped. I’d give her some time to adjust to the shock of seeing me, and then I’d try to talk to her again. She couldn’t stay mad at me forever, could she? I checked my schedule and realized my next class was English Lit. It wasn’t my favorite, but if I got lucky, Ali would be in class with me again.

I made my way toward room one sixteen. The room was full when I arrived, and the only empty seat was next to Shelby Blake. She was the last person I wanted to spend an hour and forty-five minutes with. Just the sight of her sleek black hair, dark eyes, and oblong face made me sick. She was single handedly responsible for so much trouble and drama. I looked around to make sure I hadn’t missed another empty seat. No such luck. I sighed and took the seat beside her.

“Hey there, Levi.” Shelby turned in her seat and crossed her legs.

“Hi.”

“Your return is the talk of the school ya know?”

“Yup.” Did she think I didn’t know? Or that I cared? There was only one thing on my mind: Ali. I had to make things right with her. Even though I’d missed her every minute of every day I’d been in California, I had liked living there. Ali was the only reason returning to Haldeen was bearable. And now she wouldn’t even speak to me.

“So, why did y’all come back?” Shelby snapped her gum.

“Wanted to.”

“I noticed Ali ain’t talking to you. That’s a switch.” She blew a large bubble and popped it loudly.

I really just wanted her to shut up. Then a thought struck me. If Ali wouldn’t talk to me, Shelby would. “Is she dating Brody Nash?”

Shelby flung her head back and laughed. “No, but it ain’t for a lack of trying on Brody’s part. That boy has been chasing her since the day she dumped him.”

Relief washed through me until the rest of Shelby’s answer settled in my mind. So, Ali and Brody had dated, but no longer were. Interesting. Why had Ali broken up with Brody? The question was on the tip of my tongue, but I didn’t want to talk to Shelby any longer. I knew how she operated. I’d ask a few innocent questions, and she’d twist my words around and start a nasty rumor. She’d done it to Ali more than once, and I wasn’t about to give her an opportunity to do it again.

“I heard she hooked up with Jimmie Allen over spring break, though.”

I glared at Shelby. Ali and Jimmie Allen? Was Shelby lying? I didn’t know if she was telling the truth or not, but on the slim chance she was being honest, I was going to make a point to have a chat with Jimmie Allen. The second bell rang, and I sighed with relief. At least I wouldn’t have to listen to Shelby run her mouth anymore.

Copyright 2015, Kara Leigh Miller

* ~ * ~ * ~ *

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Learning from the Past to Embrace the Future

Two years ago on this very day, my young adult romance, The Georgia Corbins, was released to the world, courtesy of Entranced Publishing. Unfortunately, its time on the virtual shelves was short lived because a short five months later, my publisher was in trouble and sinking faster than the Titanic. I prayed long and hard that it was nothing more than growing pains; that, like many new publishers, it just needed to find its footing in this competitive, ever-changing market. Alas, that wasn't the case. Four months after I requested and was given my rights back, the publisher officially closed its doors for good. 

Me and the authors were all like....

I was devastated. 

So, we did the only thing we could think of at the time: We banded together on Facebook, offered encouragement and support to one another as we struggled with the most important question of all: What do we do now??

I can't begin to tell you the myriad of emotions I experienced, but above all, I was heartbroken. All authors have that one book that is so close to their heart, that one book they can't seem to let go of no matter what happens. Yeah, The Georgia Corbins is that book for me. I was lost and very un-trusting of all publishers, but I knew if I ever wanted this book to see the light of day again, I had to pick myself up and move on. 

That's been a lot easier said than done. 

See, there's this thing in publishing known as first publication rights, which are like the Holy Grail in this business, and the first time a book is published, that right essentially vanishes. So when you have a book, like I did, that was briefly published, it then becomes known as "previously published." To most, this doesn't seem like a big deal. But it is. It's a HUGE deal, actually, because a lot of agents and publishers won't rep or publish a book that's already been published. Catch where I'm going with this?

As a result of that and my now skeptical and distrustful view of many small publishers, this book has sat in my laptop, untouched, for two years. It was only within the last month that I began sending it out again. And guess what??

I have TWO offers of publication! I was all like....

But then, when it came time to put pen to paper and sign on the dotted line, I was like...

I took a very large step back and really scrutinized these offers and these publishers. Yes, I really want this book to be published again. Way more than I can express in words. But the Entranced debacle taught me a LOT about this industry. 

The most important lesson being: Trust your instincts!

And that's exactly what I'm doing. While both of these publishers are reputable (as far as I can tell) and have been nothing but nice and professional, presenting me with extremely fair offers that would have given me simultaneous digital and print release, I know in my heart that no one will be able to handle this story with as much care and passion as I can. To them, this is a business, a means to earn profits. And yes, it is for me, too, but it's so much more than that. It's my passion, my desire, my life's ambition. I hope, one day, readers will have as much love and enthusiasm for these characters as I do, but until then, I know I'm the best person to bring this story back out into the world. 

So, I have declined both of the offers in favor of embracing the Indie lifestyle. 

That's right. I'm going to self publish this series, and I am beyond excited to embark on this journey. I have a fantastic team in place to help me with editing, cover art, and formatting. And the support of fellow Indie authors has been overwhelming. 

And lemme tell you.... I have got some AWESOME things planned for y'all! Free books. Never before released scenes. Brand new characters. A whole new ending :) A FOURTH BOOK! 

Excited yet?? Want to stay up to date on all the fun things I've got happening? Then please, please sign up for my newsletter. I promise I won't spam you, but you will get a free book just for signing up! 

(This is me begging.)

Also, because I'm in an giving mood, check out this GIVEAWAY! You could win a $25 Amazon gift card. 

Valentine's Day Giveaway

For a romance author, every day is like Valentine's Day. From the super sexy, swoon worthy heroes we write to the smart, sassy, beautiful heroines, sparks are always flying for us. So, now that Valentine's Day is right around the corner, I thought I'd spread the love with a spontaneous giveaway!

What am I giving away, you ask? Lots of stuff! There's also links to a super awesome HUGE giveaway hosted by Ana Blaze, so be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of this post :)

(1) GRAND PRIZE WINNER:

A signed paperback copy of Death of a Watefall
Mini Valentine's Day bag full of goodies

(2) SECOND PRIZE WINNERS:
eBook copy of Love and Other Games (Gifted via Amazon or B&N. Winners choice.)

Winners will be chosen and announced on Monday, February 17th. All winners will have 48 hours to claim their prizes. If they don't, I will draw new winners.

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While you're at it, stop on over to the lovely Ana Blaze's Blog for the Love is All You Need Giveaway! She's got lots of great books from a plethora of talented authors, both adult and young adult! Or, you can simply enter right here on my blog.

ADULT GIFT PACK:

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YOUNG ADULT GIFT PACK:

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{BLOG TOUR}: Entrusted

I'm extremely happy to welcome Connie Ann Michael to the blog today. She's out touring with her new young adult book, ENTRUSTED. (I've edited this book -- fantastic!!)  One her characters, Solomon is here to answer a few questions about him, his family, and the girl he loves, Emma. So, without further ado...

Could you tell me a little about how you first met Emma?
Well, I first met her when she was created as the vessel, but she was a baby and I didn't know it was her, so I guess that doesn't really count.  I was pulled into her dreams for a while before I actually got to meet her face to face, and that was at the Tribal Center.  It was the first time we got a chance to actually speak.  I'm afraid I wasn't as smooth as I would have hoped and was kind of at a loss for anything to say and kind of stared at her.  She takes my breath away.

What did you think of her initially? Love at first sight?
The minute I was pulled into her dreams and stood by watching her interaction with Raven, I knew she had my heart.  It was most definitely love at first sight and even today...every time I see her, I fall in love with her again.

If you had to describe Emma in three words?
Well her name means all-containing, I think that is a good word for her and what her purpose is...or was. I would also say compassionate, she cares so much for other people that she often times forgets about her needs.  And finally I would say beautiful.  Inside and out.

What's the hardest thing you've had to face together?
Well, the entire story of Entrusted is the fight we had to go through to get her away from Raven.  That would be the easy answer.  But I am going to say, from my point of view, the hardest thing I had to face was trying to convince Emma it I was worth fighting for.  That she could love me and except my love in return.  She can be stubborn and it took a lot to get her to see she was worthy of my love and of the life we could have together.  There was a lot of history she needed to be caught up on.  History she is a part of but not aware of.  It will take time for her to understand her part in it. But, more importantly, I need to be patient and love her while she questions who she is and what we can be together.

Okay, so your brother, Logan. He's a big part of the story and a friend to Emma. Give us a little dish on him. Will he ever find his heart?
Technically, he would be considered our cousin in your world.  We do not share mothers.  But we consider him a brother so that is fine to refer to him as that.  Remember, in our customs I can't tell too much about another's gifts so I will talk more general about him. Logan is my best friend as well as brother.  He has always got me and doesn't put up with my shit, as he says, not my words.  Logan is a free spirit.  That can be seen by his description.  He doesn't follow the traditional ways with his hair or jewelry but that's just him.  He embraces the modern world more than the rest of us, which makes it easier for him to work with the youth of the tribes.  He says I'm stuffy and scare the kids.  I prefer reserved.  Ha ha. Logan has a quick wit and loves to laugh, but he had a rough childhood and uses his humor to hide what is really going on underneath.  He won't talk about it, but I know.  Just like he knows things about me the others don't.  We have a weird connection that way.  I think Logan is a necessary force to offset Josiah's negative energy.  If anyone should find his heart, it should be Logan.  He has so much to give and I think if he found someone they might help him heal from his past.  And to answer your last part of the question.  I think Logan will definitely have his chance to tell his story later.

What's next for you and Emma?
I wish I could say we ride off into the sunset and live happily ever after but that isn't the way life works.  We got a reprieve at the end of Entrusted and hopefully we can take some time to get to know each other without worrying about Raven, but he's coming back.  We haven't won yet and until he is destroyed he will continue to fight for what he believes is his.  But the Great Spirit is giving us a small gift of time before I must leave.  Our time here is up and we are going to be moving on.  Emma needs to finish her senior year so we will be separated for a short time. I am hoping I can trust the friendships she has formed to help her during our separation.  Nick has some history he is unaware of that I believe will come in handy while I am gone.  You'll have to wait for him to reveal that, however.  Life is never guaranteed, but no matter what happens Emma and I are connected. I have no choice in that matter.  She has my heart.  I love her.  I'll do whatever I need to to make her happy.

Blurb:

Thrust into a world of Native American legends about Skinwalkers and Ancient Ones, Emma Hunter finds herself in the middle of a battle for a heart holding great powers – A heart hidden within her.

Seventeen-year-old Emma wants what every teenage girl wants: a life that revolves around school, her friends, and a boyfriend who only has eyes for her. Little does she know that in order to get one, she must sacrifice the other two. After a series of events put into motion by Luke, the boy she thought loved her, Emma is kicked out of her group home and her school. Her best friend mysteriously vanishes and now she’s forced to move to a secluded coastal town, where she hopes to escape Luke’s obsessive control.  Instead, she finds her dreams invaded not only by Luke, but Solomon, a mysterious Native American warrior sent to protect her. 

But when Solomon shows up in her reality to explain he’s her protector, she soon learns that he’s so much more. As Emma struggles to understand what’s happening to her, she must also deal with her undeniable attraction to Solomon. Their connection is stronger than anything Emma has ever experienced before and now she must decide: can she trust him with her heart? And just how far will she go to protect it?

Add Entrusted to your Goodreads to-read list.

 

BUY LINKS:

 

Excerpt:

Slowly and deliberately, Solomon began to kiss my shoulders, turning me so he could run his fingers lightly over the bruises on my back. I could feel the warmth of his touch become more intense as he transferred the wounds of my body to his own. His kiss, his touch, sent shivers through me, taking all my worries and fears away. He turned me again and placed his mouth over mine for a long, soul-stirring kiss.

“I think you should watch those healing skills of yours.” I was breathless.

He smiled mischievously. “It’s my touch that heals. I thought I would try something different this time.” He continued to trail kisses across my shoulders.

“Well, I give this technique high marks, but have to wonder how the older men would like it,” I stuttered, trying to keep my thoughts coherent.

 I felt him smile against my bare skin. “I’ll reserve it for you.”

“Does it hurt you?”

“Not as much as it does you.” His hands moved softly over my bare arms. I watched the bruises appear on him, and then slowly fade away.

“But I can heal you here.” I ran my fingers over the raw sore on his chest.

“Yes,” the word caught in his throat. “You already have.”

BUY LINKS:

 

 

About the Author:

Connie Ann Michael was raised a city girl, but was converted to a country girl after college and now resides in a speck of a town in Central Washington State.  She is married to her former boss as she worked at the local Pizza place and has two college age boys that provide endless material for her books.  She loves the outdoors and can be found mountain biking, kayaking, or camping with her family.  Being a busy family, she can be found working on her newest novel while on long road trips.

You can find Connie on her website, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Goodreads.

 

TOUR WIDE GIVEAWAY!!

- 10$ amazon gift card

- 2 e-copies Entrusted

- 2 swag packs, which contain Entrusted stickers and bookmarks and an Entrusted charm necklace

- 2 swag packs, which contain Entrusted stickers and bookmarks and an Entrusted Ghost Bead Bracelet

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{PAPERBACK PARTY}: Colors Like Memories by Meradeth Houston

Hi! *waves* I'm incredibly excited to announce the paperback release for COLORS LIKE MEMORIES.

The ebook release has been a blast, and it is especially awesome to actually hold the book in my hands :)

Here are three things I think you might find fun about the book:

1. It's got a pretty sweet cover :) And I'm rather partial to the blurb:



Julia has a secret: she killed the guy she loved. It was an accident—sort of.

Julia is a Sary, the soul of a child who died before taking her first breath. Without this 'breath of life' she and others like her must help those on the verge of suicide. It's a job Julia used to enjoy, until the accident that claimed her boyfriend’s life—an accident she knows was her fault. If living with the guilt weren't enough, she's now assigned to help a girl dealing with the loss of her mother, something Julia's not exactly the best role model for. If she can't figure out a way to help her, Julia's going to lose her position in the Sary, something she swore to her boyfriend would never happen.



2. There have been some pretty awesome things said about it (if I do say so myself, but I may be a bit biased). See:

-"...I applaud the author for providing a writing that has the power to encourage, inspire, help, heal and simply serve as a platform to stimulate communication for any reader (regardless of age), who is feeling hopeless. If you are looking for an interesting read, this book is well written, interesting and has several positive messages that the reader can take away from the story. I would recommend this book to any reader." TWC Amazon Review


-"Colors Like Memories was an amazing YA paranormal romance. It will make you soar with wings then drop you off and catch you once you get near the ground." Michelle Kullman Amazon Review


-"COLORS LIKE MEMORIES is an achingly beautiful tale of love, loss, and new beginnings. Meradeth Houston writes with a clean, clear prose that packs a punch. She carries her characters through the full spectrum of emotions, and the reader is swept along in the journey." RunningnWriting Amazon Review



3. You don't have to wait for book #2! THE CHEMISTRY OF FATE, also set in the Sary world, is already available, and you can grab a copy at Amazon, B&N, or my publisher MuseItUp Publishing. Book #3, SURRENDER THE SKY, will also be released soon :)



You can pre-order COLORS LIKE MEMORIES at my publisher's site: MuseItUp Publishing, or find it on Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Ebook copies are also available on all vendor sites!



Those are my three things, and if that's not enough to interest you, well, I've also got a little giveaway running for a book of your choice. Check out the rafflecopter below :)



A bit about Meradeth:

>She’s a
Northern California girl, but now lives and teaches anthropology in Montana.

>When she’s
not writing, she’s sequencing dead people’s DNA. For fun!

>She’s been
writing since she was 11 years old. It's her hobby, her passion, and she’s so
happy to get to share her work!

>If she could
have a super-power, it would totally be flying. Which is a little strange,
because she’s terrified of heights.

Find her online:

Website : Blog : Twitter : Facebook : Pinterest : Goodreads

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kara's Birthday Blitz!!

That's right....today is my birthday. And before you ask, no, I'm telling you how old I am ;)

I'm celebrating by hanging out with my characters from The Georgia Corbins. Ali is celebrating her 17th birthday by taking a trip down memory lane with all of her friends. And the best part is: YOU guys get the gift! That's right. I'm giving away the following mini-swag pack:

Includes:

• A signed paperback copy of The Georgia Corbins;
• The Georgia Corbins spiral bound notebook;
• The Georgia Corbins refrigerator magnet;
• My really pretty (and simple) business card; and
• A Kara Leigh Miller pen.

 I've decided to do this giveaway a little differently -- something that will hopefully be fun -- A blog hop scavenger hunt!

Here's how it works:

1. Visit the listed blogs below -- IN THE ORDER THAT THEY ARE LISTED (this is very important) -- and read the never-before-released excerpts.

2. At the end of each excerpt there will be a link to the next blog with the next excerpt--which will pick up right where the previous one left off. (This is why you need to read them in order. See? There is a method to my madness. I promise!)

3. Each blog will have it's very own Rafflecopter giveaway entry form that will require you to answer a question about the excerpt you just read. Once you give an answer, you will be rewarded with a clue. The clues could be anything from one word to a series of words, a phrase, or an entire sentence.

4. Collect all the clues from all of the blogs. Make sure you keep track of each clue. You'll need them at the end of the game!

5. Each stop will also give you other options: follow me on Twitter, like me on Facebook, etc. For each one you do, you will be entered into another drawing for a chance to win some "Surprise Gifts"

6. Once you've visited each stop, and collected all the clues, come back here and use those clues to solve the final puzzle--which will enter you into the Grand Prize drawing for the swag pack pictured above.

7. Winners will be announced here, on my blog, on June 25th.

 

Here are the places you'll need to go:

 

Stop #1 – Bookish Blurb 

Stop #2 – I Can't Help Where My Mind Goes 

Stop #3 – Amber Daulton's Blog 

Stop #4 – Lola's Book Reviews 

Stop #5 – Rori Shay's Blog 

Stop #6 – Loco For Libros  

Stop #7 --  Meradeth's Write Stuff

Stop #8 -- Aria Kane's Blog

Stop #9 --  Melinda Dozier's Blog

Stop #10 -- Kick Start Your Heart Romance (Kara Leigh Miller)

Good luck & happy hunting!

Gather those clues and solve the following puzzle:
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

FREE BOOK WEDNESDAY!

Just a quick post today to let y'all know that Ali & The Corbin Boys: A Prequel to The Georgia Corbins is now available....for FREE!!!

You can get your copy HERE.

BLURB:
Shy Alison (Ali) Philips hates school. The boys tease her and the girls ignore her--all except for Shelby Blake who has made it her mission to torment Ali every chance she gets. Ali has no friends. Until she meets Levi and Tucker Corbin. The Corbin brothers treat Ali like one of the boys and make it their mission to protect her from her tormentors. Word quickly spreads through school that Ali is off limits and anyone who dares to taunt her will have to deal with the wrath of the Corbin twins.

The Corbins are Ali’s saving grace and her two best friends--her only friends in the world. Then the unthinkable happens. Levi and Tucker’s parents are getting divorced and the boys are forced to move away from the only home they’ve ever known--and away from Ali. Will Ali be able to survive without them?               

Go get your copy HERE.

And don't forget, The Georgia Corbins releases on June 10, 2013. You still have a chance to WIN a FREE eCOPY!

GIVEAWAY: IN STONE and KINDLE FIRE

 

IN STONE will be available July 29!

Beau Bailey is suffering from a post break-up meltdown when she happens across a knife in her local park and takes it home. Less than a week later the new boy in school has her trapped in an alley; he’s sprouted horns and is going to kill Beau unless she hands over the knife.

Until Eighteenth century gargoyle, Jack, shows up and saves her.

Jack has woken from a century long slumber to tell Beau that she’s accidentally been drafted into a power struggle between two immortal races; Demons and Gargoyles. The knife she picked up is the only one in existence capable of killing immortals and they’ll tear the world apart to get it back. To draw the warring immortals away from her home, Beau decides to go with Jack to Bulgaria in search of the mind-bending realm known as the Underworld, a place where they’ll hopefully be able to destroy the knife and prevent all hell from breaking loose. That is providing they can outrun the demons that are chasing them.

About the Author

 Louise is a graduate of Garstang Community Academy, currently studying for a BA (Hons) in English language and literature with special emphasis on creative writing. YA aficionado. Brit bird. Film nerd. Identical twin. Junk food enthusiast. Rumoured pink Power Ranger. Zombie apocalypse 2012 survivor. Avid collector of book boyfriends.

 

 

 

Blog: www.bookishblurb.wordpress.com  

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Rock_andor_roll

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Louise-D-Gornall/111420465709804

 

Giveaway – Open Internationally

To celebrate her upcoming release, Louise is giving away an ecopy of IN STONE and a Kindle Fire to one lucky reader! One runner-up will also win an ecopy of IN STONE. UK and US residents are eligible to win the Kindle Fire. If you live outside the UK or US and your name is drawn, you will receive an Amazon gift card valued at £160 (GBP) instead. The winners will be announced July 29. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway