Sunday, August 30, 2015

Summer Blogger Promo Tour Wrap Up

Summer Blogger Promo Tour Wrap Up
Unfortunately, Summer 2015 has come to an end, and with that, the Summer Blogger Promo Tour has also concluded. This was the first year Wonderland Novels joined the annual tour, and I had a blast. Check out some of the highlights below!


Favorite Post I Wrote: My favorite post was definitely the book shelfies I did! I just took pictures of some of my shelves and talked a little about them. You can check both of them out here:
The Hardcover Lover: Shelfies with Alice
Bibliosmiles: Anatomy of a Bookshelf

Favorite Post I Saw: Definitely the Book Scavenger Hunt between Erin @ The Hardcover Lover and Amber & Jessica @ The Book Bratz! It looked like so much fun. Check it out here.

Overall Favorite Part: Obviously, it was meeting all you wonderful bloggers and getting to know each other a little better! It was fun featuring all of you on my blog. :-)

Check out all eight of the bloggers that I have featured below!

7/5 Naomi (The Perks Of Being A Bookworm) - The Ups & Downs of Blogging
7/12 Amber & Jessica (The Book Bratz)- Bookshelf Tour
7/19 Nori (Read Write Love) - Interview
7/26 Lauren (The Tattooed Biblio) - Bookish Tattoos
8/2 Sarena & Sasha (The Writing Duo) - Would You Rather?
8/9 Danielle Villano (BiblioSmiles) - Books in the Pubic Domain
8/16 Erin (The Hardcover Lover) - Guest Review
8/23 Zoey (Uncreatively Zoey) - Interview 

I look forward to joining next year! :)


Wednesday, August 26, 2015

[Review] Dream a Little Dream by Kerstin Gier

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Dream a Little Dream by Kerstin Gier

Rating: 3 Stars
Series: Silber #1
Version: Hardcover
Release Date:  April 14th, 2015

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Mysterious doors with lizard-head knobs. Talking stone statues. A crazy girl with a hatchet. Yes, Liv's dreams have been pretty weird lately. Especially the one where she's in a graveyard at night, watching four boys conduct dark magic rituals.
The strangest part is that Liv recognizes the boys in her dream. They're classmates from her new school in London, the school where she's starting over because her mom has moved them to a new country (again). But what's really scaring Liv is that the dream boys seem to know things about her in real life, things they couldn't possibly know--unless they actually are in her dreams? Luckily, Liv never could resist a good mystery, and all four of those boys are pretty cute....

I'm very interested in dreams and I love dreaming so this book sounds like something I'd love and I was very excited to pick it up. I thought the exposition was interesting and I really wanted to know what was going on with Liv & the boys' dreams. However, as we start to get explanations, it kind of got all over the place. Was the Tittle Tattle blog really necessary? Nope. It just reminded me of Gossip Girl except with a much worse name. It contributed little to nothing to the overall story (maybe except for the Tom thing, but that was pretty irrelevant too). Also, what they were actually doing was just...lame? It kind of felt out of place.

I could not stand Liv at all. She reminds me of that character in a horror movie that does stupid stuff constantly (ex: "let's all split up"). Yeah, I get that she's supposed to be brave and adventurous and all of that but there's a fine line between stupidity and bravery. I mean, if you knew something was extremely dangerous and had some people spooked, would you go in and do it? My favorite character was probably Mia or Greyson. But I could definitely do without the whole four blonde, downright gorgeous boys. So cliche, or maybe I've just grown out of that.

Anyway, to be more positive; one of the best parts of the story, as is with most, was the ending. I did not see that coming! Talk about crazy plot twists. It definitely made me want to see what happens next and how Gier plans to further the plot, especially with Annabel's current state and Liv's wish. The concept of dreams is, again, very interesting so I hope they play a big part in the rest of the series.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Cover Reveal and Giveaway (and Much More!): Fire Falling (Air Awakens #2) by Elise Kova

The release date of Air Awakens is on the 27th, and that's only a few days away! 3 days to be exact! I hope you're as excited as I am! But prepare to be even more excited. Do you hate being left hanging from suspenseful cliffhangers at the end of books, only to realize that the sequel isn't coming out yet for another year, or even more (Game of Thrones fans, you know what I mean!)? 
For Air Awakens, that isn't a problem. And many of you have been awaiting this cover reveal, so I present to you the cover of Fire Falling - Air Awakens #2!

Cover art is by zwxArt!

Fire Falling Synopsis

Soldier… Sorcerer… Savior… Who is Vhalla Yarl?
Vhalla Yarl marches to war as property of the Solaris Empire. The Emperor counts on her to bring victory, the Senate counts on her death, and the only thing Vhalla can count on is the fight of her life. As she grapples with the ghosts of her past, new challenges in the present threaten to shatter the remnants of her fragile sanity. Will she maintain her humanity? Or will she truly become the Empire’s monster?

Air Awakens Release Date: August 27th, 2015


Fire Falling Release Date: November 19th, 2015

Giveaway!
Elise will be giving away one Advanced Reader Copy (signed too!) of Fire Falling! To enter, simply fill out this Rafflecopter.

Do you want to know more about the amazing characters you're reading about? Here are some character bios! 

Character Bio: Vhalla Yarl
Air Awakens Age: 17-18
Height: 160cm (5′ 3″)
Birthday: Late Summer (Time of the Mother)
Born in: The East (Leoul, Cyven)
Eye Color: Brown, flecked with gold
Hair Color: Ashen Brown
Skin Color: Yellow-tinted tan, golden skinned
Build: Thin boned, small framed
Favorite Food: Lemon Cakes
Affinity: Windwalker
Personality: Curious, Kind, Determined, Inquisitive
Childhood: Vhalla was born in a small farming town in Leoul, located in the western portion of Cyven (otherwise called the “East”). Her father was a farmer and her mother was the daughter of the postmasters of Hastan (the Eastern Capital). Vhalla’s upbringing was balanced between helping (more like playing in the mud) in the fields where her family grew wheat and receiving a modest education from her mother. When Vhalla was eight her father enlisted as a soldier during the War of the Crystal Caverns, during which time her and her mother fell ill with Autumn Fever. Vhalla overcame the illness, but her mother did not and she died when Vhalla was ten. Her father returned home, the war won, shortly after and relieved their neighbors of the young Vhalla’s care. For her father’s service he was awarded a place in the palace guard in the Southern Capital of the Empire. He took his daughter to the Emperor and asked to trade his place in the guard for an opportunity for Vhalla to work in the palace as an apprentice.
Vhalla was eleven when she began studying under the Master of the Imperial Library, Master Mohned. Shortly after she joined the library staff another girl, Roan, joined as well. Fast friends, the children were eager to welcome the addition of another into their fold when Sareem, a boy about the same age, arrived. The three were mostly diligent to their duties but got into trouble from time to time. Sareem was often the instigator, dragging along a reluctant but willing Vhalla. Roan attempted to be the voice of reason, but to no avail.
So why Vhalla? She's unlike the many cliched female heroines you read about in books, the kind that swoon over the male protagonist at a first glance and immediately jump into an adventure for a chance to be with him. She's definitely stubborn and stands her ground, especially with Prince Aldrik! But she's also afraid of the power within her, this dark power that hasn't been seen in a hundred plus years. Think of... Mia Thermopolis from The Princess Diaries (book Mia!), but without the magic. She's so unsure of herself up until the end, when she truly embraces being a princess. In the same way, Vhalla is slowly embracing the air within her. 
More gifs! Hooray!
Character Bio: The Crown Prince Aldrik C. Solaris
Air Awakens Age: 24
Height: 188cm (6′ 2″)
Birthday: Late Winter (Time of the Father)
Born in: The West (Norin, Mhashan)
Eye Color: Black
Hair Color: Black
Skin Color: Pale, gray toned
Build: Lean, narrow hipped
Favorite Food: Candied Lemon Peels
Affinity: Firebearer
Personality: Withdrawn, Witty, Stubborn, Intellectual, Short-Tempered
Childhood: Aldrik’s mother was the youngest of four children in the ruling family of old Mhashan (the West). When the Emperor conquered Mhashan he took Aldrik’s mother for a bride and she was quickly with child. The short period of time between the announcement of pregnancy and the wedding, as well as the pace to which the wedding was conducted, led to rumors of Aldrik being conceived out of wedlock at best, illegitimate at worst. The rumors never quite faded as Aldrik’s mother died during childbirth.
Taken back to the South with his father, Aldrik grew up in the palace in the Southern Capital. During his childhood he made close friends with a Western girl, Larel Neiress, who was also a fellow Firebearer in the Tower of Sorcerers. The prince grew into his reputation as a brooding and harsh man, withdrawing from the world and keeping his thoughts close and his enemies in fear.
When he was twenty-two he marched to war with his father, the Emperor Solaris, for the first time, quickly earning the title of “Fire Lord” for his brutality with flame on the battlefield.
Why Aldrik? Well, I already said in my review why I love him so much. He's so much more than what his coldness and silver tongue suggest, and it's up to both him and Vhalla to trust each other, for his true nature can be revealed! Aka - what a sneaky character! He cares 100% for Vhalla, I believe, but where do his motives lie? What happens next? He's such an enigma, and I want to know more. 

Finally... One last character bio (or is it...?)
Character Bio: Sareem Abban
Air Awakens Age: 19
Height: 170cm (5′ 7″)
Birthday: Spring (Time of the Dawn)
Born in: The South (Oparium, Lyndum)
Eye Color: Blue
Hair Color: Blonde
Skin Color: Olive tan
Build: Average build and frame
Favorite Food: Grilled Trout
Affinity: None, Commons
Personality: Protective, Thoughtful, Faithful
Childhood: Sareem Abban is the only son to Norin’s former master shipbuilder. His father was part of the wedding gift to the Emperor from the West after the Emperor Solaris’s union with the first Empress and moved to the Southern port of Oparium. Sareem’s mother helped to craft sailcloth, which is how his parents met.
Sareem’s father sought out an opportunity for his son at the palace in the Southern capital and Sareem was placed in the library for his cartography knowledge, skills, and penmanship. This was where he met Vhalla Yarl and he was quickly became enamored with her. Confused at how best to display his feelings, Sareem ended up pulling Vhalla into a number of situations the well-mannered girl wouldn’t have gotten into otherwise. However, his intentions remained lost on his friend.
Why Sareem? In a strange way, I was able to relate to him. With Vhalla's musings of not reciprocating his feelings, I felt a ton of sympathy for him, because I sure know how it feels like! Tons of spoilers if I say anything more but all the pity goes out to him. 

Preorder Air Awakens today! 
Want to know more about the books?

About Elise Kova 
Elise Kova has always had a passion for storytelling. She wrote her first novella, a high-fantasy, in sixth grade. Over the years she’s honed her love of literature with everything from fantasy to romance, science fiction to mystery, and whatever else catches her eye.Elise lives in Saint Petersburg, Florida, where she’s currently working on the next installment in her debut YA fantasy series: Air Awakens. She enjoys video games, anime, table-top role playing games, and many other forms of “geekdom.” She loves talking with fans on Twitter and Facebook. Visit her website here for more extras and news on her books! 
Twitter: @EliseKova | Instagram: @Elise.Kova | Tumblr: EliseKova | Facebook: Elise Kova

Sunday, August 23, 2015

Interview with Blogger Zoey Talbon

The Summer Blogger Promo Tour is an annual tour hosted by The Book Bratz, where we feature a different blogger each Sunday in July and August. Today we have an interview with Zoey Talbon from Uncreatively Zoey in order to get to know her and her blog better! We're so happy to have her featured on our blog.


1. Tell us about yourself! :D
 I'm currently 19 and studying zoology and waiting to get out of Wisconsin. There was, of course, a time I planned to work in publishing, but we somehow ended up here. Interests include cats, coffee, candles, and corgis. (And books. Obviously.) 

2. What got you into book blogging and how did you come up with the name Uncreatively Zoey for your blog?
I didn't start out as a book blog. I mostly just posted stuff I wrote or one of the 800 ideas I had at the time. But honestly? I have no idea why I started blogging about books. Everyone has these cool stories about how it happened or who inspired them, but I honestly cannot remember. Which is boring, I know. As for the title? It was originally called Zoey's Uncreatively Titled Blog because I was like, 14 when I created it. When I finally started blogging again, I cringed every time I read it. So I wanted to change to something shorter and slightly more professional, and ended up with Uncreatively Zoey. Still recognizable from what it was before, but not as silly sounding. Not that it's much better this way, haha. 

3. So this will probably be the hardest bookish question for any book blogger, but what is your all time favorite book? Just one!
WHY DOES ANYONE ASK THIS QUESTION ANYMORE? NO. NOPE. All three of the currently released books in The Raven Cycle series. 

4. What is your favorite thing about blogging?
My favorite thing about blogging is how many books I've discovered that I don't think I would have otherwise. Sure, I knew about Goodreads before, but there's only so much I would have found on there. I don't know that I ever would have read Stephanie Perkins if I hadn't been a blogger, and Anna and the French Kiss is now definitely among my absolute favorite reads. Bloggers everywhere - even ones who didn't usually read contemporary - swore up and down that it was fantastic, so eventually I caved and read it. Now I reread it at least once a year, probably. Blogging is especially important when it comes to contemporary for me. I'm much more of a fantasy reader, so I really rely on the blogging community to find contemporaries I think I'll enjoy. I finally bought Huntley Fitzpatrick's books a few days ago because of the community and can't wait to start them!

Thanks for stopping by, Zoey! Be sure to visit Zoey over at her blog here.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

[Review] Air Awakens by Elise Kova

Air Awakens by Elise Kova

Rating: 5 stars
Series: Air Awakens Book #1
Version: Advanced Reader Copy
Release Date: August 27, 2015

Goodreads synopsis:
A library apprentice, a sorcerer prince, and an unbreakable magic bond...
The Solaris Empire is one conquest away from uniting the continent, and the rare elemental magic sleeping in seventeen-year-old library apprentice Vhalla Yarl could shift the tides of war.
Vhalla has always been taught to fear the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and has been happy in her quiet world of books. But after she unknowingly saves the life of one of the most powerful sorcerers of them all—the Crown Prince Aldrik—she finds herself enticed into his world. Now she must decide her future: Embrace her sorcery and leave the life she’s known, or eradicate her magic and remain as she’s always been. And with powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla’s indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined.

If I could give this book 6/5 stars, I definitely would. 10/5 stars? Even better. That's how amazing it was. Elise Kova, you won me over with such an awesome read.

And let this be known, as it's pretty obvious with my other reviews, that I'm an extremely hard to please reader. It's been a looooong time since a book captivated me so strongly from start to end. 

Has anyone watched the cartoon, Avatar: The Last Airbender? Because if you have, you'll notice similarities between the two. Mainly the fact that that there are four elements that people can use magically - air, water, earth, and fire, and that the Windwalkers (i.e. sorcerers who can control air), have been basically extinct for the last 100+ years.

Did anyone else think of ATLA or is it just me?

But Vhalla is far from being an avatar. She's initially strongly against the idea of even becoming a sorcerer, because in her world, magic is a dark and evil entity that no one wants to deal with. But with the help of Prince Aldrik, the strongest sorcerer, and Crown Prince to the throne, she grows to accept who she is, instead of running away from it. 

The moment I realized the similarities between Avatar and Air Awakens, I wanted to read more and more. But then it hit me... when Aldrik was being... well Aldrik (cold at first, but certainly warmer and caring the more Vhalla got to know him), and his brother Baldair was being his charming, charismatic self, it came to my attention that the two brothers are just like Thor and Loki! Well, Aldrik, as I told my friend, was a combination of Loki and Zuko from Avatar.


My inner fangirl loves them both so much <3 So that love extends to Aldrik, as well.
If it's not already obvious, my favorite character is Prince Aldrik! He's absolutely perfect. I read far too many books where the main female protagonist falls for the muscular toned pretty boy (with constant descriptions of their attractive physical features). But I've grown from that, and no longer want to hear about the male protagonist's abs. Prince Aldrik is complex, and Vhalla doesn't easily fall for him/trust him. In his strange way, he shows he cares for her.

And it's been a long time since I've read too quickly, and finished the book wanting more. The story flowed at a smooth speed - not too much exposition, and just the right amount of action. Some scenes do get graphic, but the way the fights play out makes you almost picture yourself right in that moment. Makes me wish I was an Windwalker, or a Groundbreaker, or a Firerunner, or even a Waterrunner.

And when scenes got intense... There are simply no words to describe Vhalla's Awakening or the strength of the magic she controls when her emotions got the best of her. It was heart-wrenching, watching her grow in touch with her powers but yet lose (or almost lose) many things she holds dear.  If you're like me, you're constantly flipping the pages in hopes that things turn out for the better.

Her relationship with Aldrik, is also touching. I normally don't root for the girl to go for the guy so quickly, but both of them complement each other to bring out the best qualities. He makes her stronger and more convicted; she calms and understands his silver-tongue and coldness. But I'm glad Kova went with the ending she did - it gives even more potential for their friendship to blossom into something stronger.

Speaking of the ending... That blew me away entirely. The final transformation of Vhalla - from stubborn library apprentice to a sorcerer of the Tower who wants to become stronger, was a powerful and moving moment.
The air has truly 'awakened' within Vhalla! 
I highly anticipate the sequel, and encourage everyone to read it.

Giveaway Time!

Because everyone should read this amazing book - There's a giveaway for a chance to win a signed hardcover copy of Air Awakens! Simply follow this link right here - A Rafflecopter Giveaway 

About Elise Kova 
Elise Kova has always had a passion for storytelling. She wrote her first novella, a high-fantasy, in sixth grade. Over the years she’s honed her love of literature with everything from fantasy to romance, science fiction to mystery, and whatever else catches her eye.Elise lives in Saint Petersburg, Florida, where she’s currently working on the next installment in her debut YA fantasy series: Air Awakens. She enjoys video games, anime, table-top role playing games, and many other forms of “geekdom.” She loves talking with fans on Twitter and Facebook. Visit her website here for more extras and news on her books! 
Twitter: @EliseKova | Instagram: @Elise.Kova | Tumblr: EliseKova | Facebook: Elise Kova
Also if you read it, what did you think of Air Awakens? Am I the only one who think it's like Avatar? Agree/Disagree that Aldrik is Zuko/Loki? Tell me in the comments below! Also shoutout to Alice for lending me such a beautiful book! 




Sunday, August 16, 2015

[Guest Review] That Summer by Sarah Dessen


The Summer Blogger Promo Tour is an annual tour hosted by The Book Bratz, where we feature a different blogger each Sunday in July and August. For this week's Summer Blogger Promo Tour, we have Erin from The Hardcover Lover reviewing a very summer-y book! 

That Summer by Sarah Dessen
Format: Paperback (reissue)
Publisher: Speak 
Publication Date: June 2012 (originally published on January 1, 1996)
Source: Purchased
Goodreads | Amazon
The more things change...

As far as Haven is concerned, there's just too much going on.

Everything is changing, and she's not sure where she fits in.

Then her sister's old boyfriend shows up, sparking memories of the summer when they were all happy and everything was perfect...

But along the way, Haven realizes that sometimes change is a good thing.

My Review

When That Summer by Sarah Dessen was first published, I was seven years old. I don't really remember much of what happened back then, but it's safe to assume that a seven-year-old wasn't reading YA. As the years passed, I grew, but somehow Sarah Dessen never caught my attention. I didn't even know who she was until my last year of high school. So now, almost twenty years later, I'm giving Ms. Dessen some much needed attention from this YA reader.

Let's just say that That Summer wasn't the most spectacular read for me. To be honest, I think I went into it expecting way too much because I've seen the highest praises for Ms. Dessen's writing. However, the previous statement doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy reading That Summer. I thought it was a cute book, and it took me back to simpler times when cell phones didn't exist and you actually had to hang out with your friends on sidewalks and backyards.

I really liked learning about Haven's journey. It must be awkward to be a giant at such a young age, but here's Haven, a fifteen-year-old teenage girl who stands at almost six feet. (Think Taylor Swift... that's how tall Haven is.) On top of her awkward height, she also has to deal with her father marrying the woman he cheated on her mom with, her older sister's wedding, and a best friend who is now dating for the first time. Then a blast from the past comes back, and Haven keeps seeing her sister's ex-boyfriend everywhere. The more she sees him, the more she thinks about the good times, and she can't get the perfect summer that the three of them and her parents had years ago. Talk about a chaotic summer! I don't think I would have been able to handle that at fifteen.

The one thing that I adored about this novel is Dessen's use of imagery. There's a scene at the end of the book that takes place during a thunderstorm, and I could actually feel the rain and wind on my face as I was reading. You cannot beat a book with imagery, and Dessen nails it.

I'd definitely consider this a coming-of-age novel. Haven has to learn how to deal with all of the changes in her life in a manner that reflects that of a fifteen-year-old, and not the child that she used to be. I'd recommend this book for all fans of contemporary YA, and especially teenage girls between the ages of fourteen and sixteen.

Sarah Dessen is the author of eleven previous novels, which include the New York Times  bestsellers The Moon and More, What Happened to Goodbye, Along for the Ride, Lock and Key, Just Listen, The Truth About Forever, and This Lullaby. Her first two books, That Summer and Someone Like You were made into the movie How to Deal starring Mandy Moore.

Dessen's books are frequently chosen for the Teen Top Ten list of Fiction for Young Adults. They have been translated into twenty-five languages.

Sarah Dessen graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with highest honors in creative writing.

She lives in Chapel Hill with her husband, Jay, and their daughter, Sasha Clementine.

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Sunday, August 9, 2015

[Guest Post] Books in the Public Domain

The Summer Blogger Promo Tour is an annual tour hosted by The Book Bratz, where we feature a different blogger each Sunday in July and August. For today's SBPT, we have Danielle Villano from BiblioSmiles talking about Books in the Pubic Domain!
If you’re like me (and I’m guessing most of you are – you bookworms, you), you’ probably happily spend your life savings on books. New books, used books, e-books… they make for nice collections, but the price tags add up.  Did you know there’s a whole catalog of books out there that are free for those of you who have an e-reader or are willing to read on the computer?  Welcome to the public domain.
What is the public domain? The public domain includes works (like music, books, and movies) whose intellectual property rights “have expired, have been forfeited, or are inapplicable.” (Thanks, Wikipedia!)
What does this mean for you?  You can read some really awesome classics for free! One of my favorite resource is Project Gutenberg, a free website (funded by donations) where public domain books are digitized and other free e-books are also available. There are over 49.000 books on all kinds of subjects!
If you’re looking for fiction, look no further than their “Popular” category. These classics, by authors like Jane Austen and Bram Stoker, are popular for a reason.  If there’s a classic novel you’ve been meaning to read, why not download it and read it on your morning commute? Here are a few of my favorite public domain reads.
Frankenstein; Or, The Modern Prometheus by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Shelley’s tale of Dr. Frankenstein’s “monster” is touching, spooky, and incredibly compelling. Maybe you’ve seen the movie versions. Maybe you’re ready to dismiss this book based on some scary Halloween memories.  Don’t miss out!  Frankenstein remains one of my favorite classics.

This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald
If you’re only familiar with Gatsby, try out another one of Fitzgerald’s stories! This Side of Paradise is the story of the charismatic Amory Blaine, a Midwestern fellow turned Princeton student who tries – and fails – to win at love.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
So maybe you only pretended to read them in high school or college. Maybe you want a refresher. Maybe you just want some good old-fashioned comedy and tragedy.  Instead of carrying around a giant tome (yes, those are cool), you can have the entirety of Shakespeare’s works on your e-reader.  For free. Isn’t the public domain beautiful?
(PS: Romeo and Juliet will always be my favorite Shakespeare play.  What’s yours?)
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Did you know that Jane Austen’s classic romantic tale is part of the public domain? It’s the most-downloaded classic, according to Project Gutenberg.
(I should mention, since this IS Wonderland Novels after all, that Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is the second most-downloaded!)
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Austen’s tale, you’re in for a treat!  Follow along as Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy verbally spar, awkwardly dance, and eventually fall in love. 


Did you know that there was this treasure trove of books just waiting for you to read them?  Let me know what your favorite classics are!
Thanks for having me, Alice!  I hope you’ll come visit me on BiblioSmiles soon.



Danielle Villano is a New Jersey native and a graduate of the SUNY Purchase creative writing program.  She lives in New York City and should be working on her YA novel instead of going to brunch.  She blogs at BiblioSmiles, and can be reached on Twitter as @daniellevillano.

  

Friday, August 7, 2015

[Guest Post] Legend of the Timekeepers Tour

Welcome to the week long blog tour for 
Legend of the Timekeepers by Sharon Ledwith!

Follow the Tour (link to the schedule is below) to Read Reviews, Guest Posts, and Book Spotlights

There is no moving forward without first going back.


About Legend of the Timekeepers:

Lilith was a young girl with dreams and a family before the final destruction of Atlantis shattered those dreams and tore her family apart. Now refugees, Lilith and her father make their home in the Black Land. This strange, new country has no place in Lilith’s heart until a beloved high priestess introduces Lilith to her life purpose—to be a Timekeeper and keep time safe.
Summoned through the seventh arch of Atlantis by the Children of the Law of One, Lilith and her newfound friends are sent into Atlantis’s past, and given a task that will ultimately test their courage and try their faith in each other. Can the Timekeepers stop the dark magus Belial before he changes the seers’ prophecy? If they fail, then their future and the earth’s fate will be altered forever.

Book Information:

Title: Legend of the Timekeepers

Series:  The Last Timekeepers, Book # 0.5

Author Name:  Sharon Ledwith

Genre(s): Young Adult, Time Travel

Tags: #‎YAlit‬ ‪#‎timetravel‬

Length: Approx. 147 pages

ISBN: 9781619376236

Re-Release Date: August 1, 2015

Publisher:  Mirror World Publishing  http://www.mirrorworldpublishing.com/

Tour Host:  Sapphyria's Book Promotions  http://saphsbookpromos.blogspot.com/

Follow the Tour to Read Reviews, Guest Posts, and Spotlights: 


Read an Excerpt:

“Why are you here?” Lilith asked. “You’ve already got your life seal.” 

“I have more questions for Istulo.” She continued to stare at the disk. 

Lilith sighed. “My name is Lilith. What’s your name?” 

Her shoulders relaxed slightly. A hint of a smile broke out on her face. Her upturned nose wiggled. “She-Aba. I was born here in the Black Land. Both my parents arrived from Atlantis fourteen years ago yesterday. My mother gave birth to me the next day.”

Lilith perked up. “That would make today your birthday!”

She-Aba beamed. “Yes. That’s why I’m here. For my birthday last year, I had my life reading done by Istulo. But recently, there’s been a hiccup in my plans. It’s like my life seal rearranged itself, and now I’m confused. I’m here for a reaffirmation.” 

“What’s the problem?” 

She-Aba traced her life seal with the tip of her perfectly shaped fingernail. “My lifetime occupation was supposed to be to design clothing for the people of the various positions in the court and temples.” 

Lilith smirked. “That makes perfect sense.” 

“I know, right? So why, all of a sudden, would my life seal change from designing clothing to something completely different?” 

Lilith arched a fair brow. “How different?” 

“Well, instead of clothing people in lavish robes and gowns for others to appreciate, the seal suggests that I’ll be doing the opposite by covering up and hiding the truth. I don’t understand it at all. I thought my life was all planned out for me.” 

“I thought mine was too, until my country blew up and slid into the ocean,” Lilith muttered. 

“Hey, look at the bright side, at least your hair isn’t red like mine.” 

Lilith eyed She-Aba carefully. “What’s wrong with red hair? My uncle has red hair and it suits him fine.” 

She-Aba moved in closer. “If you haven’t noticed already, there aren’t many redheads around here. The natives think red is magical, and anyone with red hair is considered a freak of nature.” 

“That’s ridiculous!” Lilith said loud enough to cause an echo down the marble hallway. “Is that the reason why those artists were rude to you? Because you have red hair?” 

“Red is a very powerful color,” a raspy voice said from behind both girls. 

Lilith and She-Aba jumped. They slowly turned to find Istulo hovering over them. 

Wearing the same white gown and orichalcum headband Lilith saw her dressed in before, Istulo nodded slightly before she said, “Red represents the essence of life—if we are drained of blood, we are drained of energy. The people of the Black Land understand this, and therefore red is reserved only for their gods and goddesses.” 

Lilith giggled. “Don’t tell She-Aba that, she’ll think she’s a goddess.”

Guest Post
Meet the legendary and oh-so-stylish She-Aba…
…who is Lilith’s BFF in the prequel to The Last Timekeepers series, Legend of the Timekeepers. She-Aba is with us today and has plenty to say about following your dreams and standing out in a crowd.
Thank you for coming to chat with us today, She-Aba. Why do you think Sharon Ledwith chose you to represent her?
Because I have the most style and flair when it comes to representing others. I look at a person and see their best qualities, then work with the right fabrics and accessories to bring out their natural beauty and make them stand out. Sharon knows this. I know this. I mean…look at my shoes. Aren’t they stunning?
They are indeed. What is your birth date?
I was born fourteen years ago on the day after my parents arrived here from Atlantis.
Here? Where do you live? What is it about the area that drew your parents?
I was born and raised in the Black Land. I’ve heard that it’s named for the rich, dark soil found in the river and the valley we live near. Since there was too much instability going on in Atlantis—you know, stuff like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions—my parents decided to immigrate here and start a new life. And I’m so glad that they did seeing as their homeland blew up and sank into the ocean.  
Wow, your parents certainly made a good decision. Tell us a little about yourself?
Well, ever since I was a little girl, I have wanted to dress up people, and help them look their best. My father sits on the Black Land’s high counsel, so I make sure his beard is braided, his hair is oiled and scented, and his clothes are of the highest quality. Oh, and I also have red hair. Apparently that’s not very favorable in the eyes of the Black Land natives.
Huh? Why not?
Red is a color reserved for their gods and goddesses. The natives think red is magical, and anyone with red hair is considered a freak of nature.  
I see. What’s your favorite music?
Ohhh, I love the sound of crystal bowls being played! It makes my whole body hum and vibrate.
Will we be seeing more of you or are you stepping out of the lime light?
I don’t understand what you mean about the lime light? Is it like the moon or sun light? These are very confusing questions! I’m sure Sharon Ledwith has future plans for me if that is what you mean.
What do you do to relax?
I create beautiful sashes, satchels, and shoes to go with all the outfits I put together. The end results are truly extraordinary.
Okay, so what gets you excited?
No contest. Shoes. Oh, and finding the right suitor.
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor, chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry?
What is this ice cream you speak of? There is no such thing here in the Black Land. Again you confuse me with your babble. You need to wear a Babel necklace. It’s all the rage for a Timekeeper. Plus it would help me to understand what you are saying. If you are talking about a favorite food, then I like drizzling honey over freshly baked bread. Mmmm.
Do you believe in ghosts?
No. But I do believe in dark vibrations. I’ve seen it firsthand.
Why should the readers be interested in your story?
What a silly question! This story is about finding your true purpose. Why we are here and what we have to do. That’s what life readings are for. Why would anyone NOT be interested?
What is a life reading?
Life readings are scribed on a small ceramic disk called a life seal. See the one I’m wearing on my spotted-animal cape? I fashioned it to look like a broach. Originally a life seal is blank, but once the high priestess from the Temple Beautiful has had a chance to assess you based on your karmic development, she goes into a trance and records her impressions on the seal which then becomes your lifetime occupation.
That sounds complicated. What is your lifetime occupation?
My original lifetime occupation was supposed to be to design clothing for the people of the various positions in the court and temples. Then one day the inscription on my life seal completely changed.
Changed? How?
That’s for me to know, and you to find out…

Here’s a little sampling of Legend of the Timekeepers set to be re-released this August 1st…
There is no moving forward without first going back.
Lilith was a young girl with dreams and a family before the final destruction of Atlantis shattered those dreams and tore her family apart. Now refugees, Lilith and her father make their home in the Black Land. This strange, new country has no place in Lilith’s heart until a beloved high priestess introduces Lilith to her life purpose—to be a Timekeeper and keep time safe.
Summoned through the seventh arch of Atlantis by the Children of the Law of One, Lilith and her newfound friends are sent into Atlantis’s past, and given a task that will ultimately test their courage and try their faith in each other. Can the Timekeepers stop the dark magus Belial before he changes the seers’ prophecy? If they fail, then their future and the earth’s fate will be altered forever.

Purchase Links:

Amazon



Mirror World Publishing



Barnes & Noble



Meet the Author:

Unearthing the uncanny one book at a time


Sharon Ledwith is the author of the middle-grade/young adult time travel series, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and is represented by Walden House (Books & Stuff) for her teen psychic series, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, researching, or revising, she enjoys reading, exercising, anything arcane, and an occasional dram of scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern tourist region of Ontario, Canada, with her hubby, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.

Connect with Sharon Ledwith:

Sharon’s Website: www.sharonledwith.com


Sharon’s Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/seledwith


Twitter: @sharonledwith: https://twitter.com/sharonledwith


Amazon Author U.K. Page: http://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B0084DUHJO




Giveaway Information and Entry Form:

One winner will be selected to receive the following prizes ~

· A signed paperback copy of Legend of the Timekeepers

· A custom crafted ceramic Spiral Life Seal

· A signed postcard

· Two ‘The Last Timekeepers’ wrist bands