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Lynn's Review ~ Deception by Melanie Gilbert

4/23/2020

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Deception by Melanie Gilbert Author 
https://amzn.to/34VeeJq

✨✨✨
If the path becomes lost, can you find your way home?

Pierre Danville is the reluctant heir to the Danville clan of Fae. As if that’s not bad enough, Fate has chosen his future bride for him, and Pierre’s not impressed. All he wants is freedom to choose his Destiny.

Petrina envies her friends who marry for love and are properly courted by their Fae men. Instead of courting, Petrina and Pierre are forced into the woods where they can be alone and work out their problems.

A witch is at work in the Danville Forest. Her prize is a young Danville heir with his Destiny. If Pierre and Petrina don’t work together, it could spell the end for the Danvilles.

This is a prequel Novella in the Fae Brothers' Ever Afters Series.

Lynn's Review

​Gilbert packs quite a punch in the prequel to her Fae Brothers Ever Afters series. It was a roller coaster of torent emotions. I loved it!

5 STARS
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Release & Review ~ Abrupt by Kathy Coopmans

4/22/2020

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AbruptAbrupt by Kathy Coopmans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Miss Coopmans has left me speechless, AGAIN! This book has all the feels, and then some. Amazing, truly amazing. I highly recommend this, and anything/everything else by this Author. Every book seems to be better than the last, somehow.

View all my reviews

Title: Abrupt
Author: Kathy Coopmans
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Second Chance Romance, Single Dad Romance



Have you ever wondered if regret will imprison you, or does it set us free as the truth does?
Regret was the one thing I had. It owned my charred black soul. That emotion was digging so deep into my bones like a deadly disease.
I hid it well. Let people believe I was a kind man.
I’m far from one. I’m brash, bold, and angry at the curveball life has thrown at me.
My saving grace came in the form of a tiny bundle wrapped in pink.
My daughter.
The day I learned I’d raise her on my own, was the day I kept the only vow I didn’t intend to break. I wasn’t letting a woman in my bed or my heart. There wasn’t room for one with my daughter owning one half and a woman I let slip through my fingers holding onto the other without her knowing it.
I kept that vow until now.
She’s back.
The one that owns the other half of my heart.
She’s carrying more pain than she left with, I can see it in her eyes. I should never have let her go, and now my regret is here, facing me head-on. I made a mistake, one I plan to rectify.
I am a Mitchell, after all. I’ll stop at nothing to get what I want.
Her.
I have to prove to her that there will be no more broken promises, show her that my heart, the half I gave to her so long ago, is still hers.

Goodreads

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PROLOGUE
Lane
“Do I look like a man who gives a shit that’s a two thousand dollar bottle of bourbon? I told you to give me the whole damn bottle.” A breath of disgust passes through my clenched teeth. More of it’s about ready to slip out of my lungs if I don’t get the hell out of this room to breathe some fresh air.
I’m two point five seconds from causing a scene at this farce of a wedding by reaching across the bar and crushing the bartender’s windpipe the minute he turns back around. All the while shouting to everyone that the bride will never love the groom the way she does me.
“Sienna.” Her name leaks out of my aching chest in a barely-there whisper.
“And I told you Mr. Ricci said to cut people off if I thought they had too much. You’ve had enough, pal.” He spins on his feet, daring to stare me down.
I’m not this asshole’s pal. I’m nothing but a miserable man who needs to drink myself into a stupor. He happens to be in my way.
I contemplate jumping over this bar to take my frustration out on his face or scare the shit out of him.
Either way, I will have that bottle.
“I’ll show you, pal, when I ram this down your throat. Do you have a problem with giving me the bourbon now?” I flash my gun, not bothering to thank him when he raises his hands in surrender, grabs my drink of choice, and slides it across the smooth top of the bar.
I hated guns about as much as I hated having to attend this wedding. The problem was, tonight, I wanted to strap it to my side in case I decided to pull the trigger and shoot the groom in the back of the head as he stood at the altar. Now, I wish I had.
Sienna is married, my life, my girl is married.
Fuck.
“Wise choice, asshole.” I snatch hold of it, fingers itching like a bitch to walk up to the groom, dump it over his head and light him on fire.
Yeah, I had a problem with the groom.
I hated his guts. He has my only regret, my life, my everything in his arms.
At twenty years old, I had a list a mile long of regrets, most of them having one thing or another to do with the bride.
Regret number one, she was as much the forbidden fruit as tempting, and I was that much of a dumb ass like Adam was with Eve to take a bite. I knew the commandments and broke them anyway by touching the woman with hair the same color as the apple.
Flaming red.
She’s poisoned me for life.
The woman should be mine instead of some made man’s in her father’s mafia. Bastard jumped at the chance to slide a ring on her finger within two months after I made the biggest mistake of my life.
I might be able to handle it if he wasn’t a piece of scum, I think, to be a traitor. If only I had the proof to back up my instincts. The only thing I have is how my blood boiled every time he shook my hand and smiled with a sinister look in his eyes.
If I find out he’s fucking with my family or trying to destroy what they’ve built, I’ll blow a hole right between those demonic looking eyes.
Taking a swig, I spin around, keeping my eyes on the door, determined to not only look at the bridal table but to take my pity party for one as far away from the glam, glitter, and the celebration as I can get. I need to be drunk and forget about watching the gorgeous woman dressed in white walking down the aisle toward a man I know damn well she doesn’t love.
No. That love will always belong to me.
I need to forget the hurt on her face when she found out what I did at Behind Closed Doors; the sex club me and my brothers own. I need to forget how I should have never fallen for a girl years ago when I knew I couldn’t keep her.
I need to learn how to live my life full of regrets. I need to forget Sienna Ricci ever existed and move on.
If I don’t, I’ll likely get us and a slew of other people I care about killed.




USA Today Best Selling Author Kathy Coopmans is a Michigan native where she lives with her husband, Tony. They have two son’s Aaron and Shane.
She is a sports nut. Her favorite sports include NASCAR, Baseball, and Football.
She has recently retired from her day job to become a full-time writer.
She has always been an avid reader and at the young age of 50 decided she wanted to write. She claims she can do several things at once and still stay on task. Her favorite quote is “I got this.”
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Reader Group | Newsletter


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Audiobookworm Blog ~ The Not So Dead by Isaiyan Morrison

4/20/2020

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​Author: Isaiyan Morrison
Narrator: Samantha Turret
Length: 6 hours 8 minutes
Series: The Dead Series, Book 1
Publisher: Isaiyan Morrison
Released: Mar. 17, 2020
Genre: Young Adult; Paranormal

BUY HERE
All Faye wants is another chance at being normal: hanging out with friends, playing video games, or reading the latest manga. As a wraith, her craving for a normal existence seems forever out of reach.


When she makes the move to the small town of Hueman, Texas, with her not-so dead nomadic family, she prays this fresh start will be the one that sticks.Until, one of her kind is murdered by a mysterious man in a black mask.


With only Carter, an unlucky human witness, by her side, Faye must find a way to prevent the body count from rising and protect her family’s secret identity. 


As the man in the black mask lurks in the shadows waiting to strike again, her choice becomes a matter of life and death. 


In the face of true evil, being normal is overrated.

REVIEW 

This is my first wraith book and I loved it.  The narrator,Samantha Turrett, did a fantastic job with the voices and brought the story to life for me.

Author Isaiyan Morrision created loveable, snarky characters that I want to hang out with.

​Isaiyan Morrison

Isaiyan Morrison was born and raised in Minneapolis, but her heart is in the impressive magical worlds she dreams up. She hopes to share her love for world-building with her readers and help guide them through the extraordinary settings she creates.
Her other passions include reading, and researching historical events. She also enjoys gardening, gaming, and spending quality time with her three cherished cats and beloved pitbull.

​Samantha Turret

Samantha Turret is an LA-based voice artist, actress and comedian who absolutely loves working on Isaiyan Morrison's books. Other favorite narration credits include: Bestseller Rivals! Frenemies Who Changed the World as Mary, Queen of Scots (Audible) and Pearl the Magical Unicorn (Macmillan). She's voiced many other audiobooks and also lends her voice to animation and commercials. Samantha is also an onscreen actress best known for her role as Ms. Jingles on Nickelodeon's TOP ELF. Check out her website for more!
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Cover Revamp ~ Brandy Nacole

4/20/2020

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Title: Buried in the Bayou & Whispers in the Lake
Author: Brandy Nacole
Genre: YA Paranormal Suspense
Cover Designer: Melissa Stevens at The Illustrated Author
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR
Blurb: Our lifestyle, son, doesn’t have room for happily ever after.
My dad drilled this mantra into my head so many times I used to chant it in my sleep. Then came Jo. She made it impossible to remember the danger of teaching an outsider our secrets. I wanted her to know everything about me. The danger of this truth became all too real and after helping her find peace in her small town, I left to keep her safe.
My sister and I hit the road to continue our family duty of slaying evil spirits. With another closed case behind us, we head to the Louisiana Bayou to solve a murder and find a missing hunter. But as we dig through the town’s history, we begin to discover this is not a simple haunting. A darker evil is feeding the spirits. An evil we may not be able to beat.
As the danger begins to mount, Jo appears in my life again. As much as I want to be with her, I must do everything I can to keep her safe. Even if it means she'll hate me forever. After all, our lifestyle doesn't have room for happily ever after.
Blurb:
Dark betrayals can lead to dark consequences.
It had always been the two of us, me and my brother Cooper. Taught to hunt ghosts and send them on their way, we were raised as a team by our mother and father. Now, I'm riding solo. After getting a call from an old friend, I take her request for help. It's the best excuse I've got to put 2,000 miles between me, my past, and all the other emotions I'm not wanting to feel right now.
On a lake in Maine, apparitions are seen and cries are heard across the smooth water’s surface. Many have drowned near a small island that sits in the lake's center. The town is tight lipped and claims they were all accidents, but I know better. One drowning, sure. Dozens, not so much.
However, the more I start to uncover about the town and its dark history, the more my own past begins to catch up with me. This time, the dark betrayals will not go unnoticed and with nowhere to hide, I have no choice but to face them.
Whenever she’s not reading or writing, Brandy is spending time with her family and friends, throwing around crazy ideas, teaching, and singing like a rock star at a concert for no one else but herself. She loves plants, but unfortunately is a killer of anything that requires water but can’t voice (scream) their needs.
Author Links:
Website: www.brandynacole.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorbrandynacole
Twitter: www.twitter.com/authorbnacole
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/BrandyNacole
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/brandy-nacole
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2txzx2q
Buy Links:
Deep in the Hollow: https://amzn.to/2IZV0IQ
Buried in the Bayou: https://amzn.to/2zeQRiv
Whispers in the Lake: https://amzn.to/2VF5ZNJ
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Release & Review ~ Rumors Series by Rachael Brownell

4/16/2020

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I absolutely loved this series, see my reviews at the bottom. ~Crystal 

Title: Rumors Series
Author: Rachael Brownell
Genre: Office Romance
Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR
Blurb:
Damaging Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
My new boss should come with a warning label. He’s hotheaded, demanding, and sexy as sin. A recipe for trouble when your current relationship is on the rocks.
Determined to ignore my growing attraction to him, I keep my head down and attempt to focus on my work. Until one steamy moment in the elevator makes me reconsider everything I believe in.
When long days start turning into late nights, rumors begin to spread about our sudden romantic relationship. Everyone loves to hear the latest office gossip but no one cares if the rumors are true.
Until they’re at the center of them.
Blurb:
Devious Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
Single.
People make it sound like it’s a bad thing. When you’ve been in a relationship that almost destroyed you, being single is a gift. You’ve been given your freedom back. You learn to love yourself again.
The moment that happens, when you finally allow yourself to feel worth of love, someone amazing walks in your life and makes you want to throw caution to the wind. And for this man… that’s exactly what I would do.
Of course, it couldn’t be easy. My past has to walk back into my life, my job, and make me question everything, especially my worth.
Rumors begin to fly around the office causing tension in my new relationship. The people who really know me know the truth, but the gossip is more interesting.
Blurb:
Delicate Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
I fell in love with Angela the moment I laid eyes on her. Right after she almost ran me off the road. She was on fire that day, a woman on a mission, and nothing was going to stop her.
That fire burns between us now and I can’t imagine not having her in my life. Proposing felt right. Living together has been amazing. Everything is perfect… until I hear the gossip circulating around the office.
I know better than to listen to the rumors but as our wedding approaches, I can’t help but wonder if there’s any truth to them.
Blurb:
Deserving Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
It was supposed to be one night.
After watching Ryder fawn all over his new skank, I needed more than booze to help me forget what I’d lost. What I’d thrown away.
I should have known better than to get involved with another one of the Dixon brothers clan. Their friends are like family and the Dixon family doesn’t keep secrets from each other.
So when one night turned into a week spent rolling around in the sheets, I knew I was in trouble.
Everyone would find out what I’d done. They’d be able to see through my thick facade.
Rumors will fly. Unless… maybe I can spin the truth.
Blurb:
Devastating Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
After listening to Angela and Tyler vow to love each other unconditionally, I’ve decided it’s time to focus all my love on the one person who’s stood by my side through everything.
We were happy once and we can be happy again.
After we got married, before the emotional strain of not being able to get pregnant weighed us down, Hunter and I were living a dream.
So that’s what we’re going to do. Get remarried. Get back to the people we once were.
Easy, right?
It would be if his staff kept their opinions to themselves and their mouths shut. I’ve always dismissed the office gossip… it’s different now that I’m at the center of it.
 Blurb:
Defensive Rumors - A Dixon Family Novel 
I’m a horrible person.
Who goes to a wedding with one date and leaves with another?
Me, that’s who. Hence why I’m a horrible person.
I wasn’t the only one leaving my date behind that night, though.
Maybe that’s why I’m attracted to Zane. He’s irritating to the point I want to strangle him. He refuses to apologize for being himself. He’s rude and brash and so damn sexy.
The moment I saw him I knew he was trouble. When he laid the challenge on the table, I should have run.
In a way I did. I ran straight into his arms and latched on to his lips.
It was a moment of weakness. Of lust. Of pure passion.
A moment I’m sure the rumor mill would have a field day with. The problem is, no one’s saying anything.
Rachael Brownell is an award-winning romance author. She resides in the midwest with her husband, son, and fur-babies. A morning person at heart, Rachael is a coffee addict who enjoys writing characters readers can connect with. She’s also known for placing those same characters in situations that will make you feel like you’re right there with them, going through the experience.
To stay connected with Rachael, stalk her on social media, join her reader group or sign up for her newsletter.
Author Links:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2uQMdmO
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRachaelBrownell
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorRachaelB
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7362131.Rachael_Brownell
Website: http://authorrachaelbrownell.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorrachaelbrownell/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/authorrachaelbrownell
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rachael-brownell
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2KDE5dG
Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BrownellBookLovers/
Buy Links:
Damaging Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07963F7SF
Devious Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C84J375
Delicate Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CTQSLSX
Deserving Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F1KWD8Z
Devastating Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G68Q7W8
Defensive Rumors: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GR7ZGZR

Reviews 

These reviews are from the original editions. 
Damaging RumorsDamaging Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rachael's writing style has grown over time. This book proves that! This wasn't her normal clean YA romance. This is so much more, while it's still clearly her writing it's for the older crowd, new adults instead of teens or what have you. Rumors is my favorite of hers so far. But then again it seems every new one becomes my favorite. If you haven't read anything by Rachael yet, what are you waiting for?

View all my reviews
Devious RumorsDevious Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Justine, what can I say. Love can change people. I didn't really care for her in the first book, but she matured in this one. The rumor was something else, but they always are aren't they? I recommend this series for sure!

View all my reviews
Delicate RumorsDelicate Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Freaking AMAZING! I missed all the wedding planning hassle. We had a small courthouse wedding but this book was very detailed in the wedding planning stress. Good and bad. Ang and Ty's bond is strong, they try to let nothing get in the way of their happiness. Things at work are changing, I can't wait to see what happens next!

View all my reviews
Deserving RumorsDeserving Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What to even say? Rachael outdid herself again with this one. Megan, gosh I hated her. But rumors and only getting one side of things will do that won't they? As the mother of Ryder's daughter we knew she would be around, but wow this tops it.

View all my reviews
Devastating RumorsDevastating Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bri, oh goodness how I could relate to her in so many ways. It was heartbreaking.

Even thought these two have been together for almost a decade they are not immune to the rumors flying around the office. Is their love strong enough to make it?

This can be read as a stand alone, but I suggest reading the series in order to get to know the other family members.

View all my reviews
Defensive RumorsDefensive Rumors by Rachael Brownell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

oooooh what an ending!

This is the last book in the Rumors series, while it can be read as a standalone, I do not suggest it.
Ally and Zane, wow. The growth of the characters in this story was amazing. I don't know who I disliked more, Megan or Ally, but once their stories were told they became more understandable. The characters are so real. I am sad to see the series end!

View all my reviews
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New Release ~ A Dark Spring Anthology

4/13/2020

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Stories That Twist & Tangle

Laura N. Andrews ● M. Billiter â— Kim Deister â— R.M. Gilmore
Kenneth Jobe â— Barb Shuler â— M.C. St. John â— Ricky Wells

Title: A Dark Spring
Genre: Suspense
Release Date: April 11, 2020
Publisher: Tangled Tree Publishing
Cover Designer: BookSmith Design
Add to TBR

On sale for $2.99!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3bkW0nF
All other links: books2read.com/adarkspring
Eight original tales of suspense that will tangle your senses and keep you gripped. From murder to the unknown, the everyday world is explored in these tension-fuelled and twisted novellas. Be prepared to get tangled.

***

A Tangled Oracle by Laura N. Andrews
In Oracle Vardalos’s dreams, people are murdered. News stories follow and the evidence piles up against her. She must save those she loves; even if it’s from herself.

The Burning Rock by M. Billiter
They agreed it would be easier this way. Still, when it was over, all that remained was an empty saddle and a closed casket.

Tangled Love by Kim Deister
He's the Gomez to her Morticia, the center of her world. But everything changes when Tessa sees something she was never supposed to see. Love and sanity become tangled, leaving herteetering on the edge of the cliff, wondering if her life will ever be the same again.

Gnarled by R.M. Gilmore
Carter Kennedy returns to her father’s hometown after nearly twenty years to claim her inheritance. She quickly discovers why her father had kept her and her brother away from Scully’s Hollow and the people who inhabit it.

Early Retirement by Kenneth Jobe
Loyal husband and hard-working employee Richard Griffith has his world turned upside down. When he is dealt yet another bad hand and uncovers the identity of his wife's lover, he reaches his breaking point.

Tangled Obsession by Barb Shuler
Injured and stranded on a mountain with the sun setting and no help in sight, Elsa Malloy has only two options—fight or die. Believing her loved ones are dead, and fighting against the elements of the mountain, Elsa is left to fend off a sadistic killer alone.

We Only Want to Play by M.C. St. John
Teacher aide Julie Trudeau has noticed something odd among the remaining summer school students: they are playing a game of Telephone without moving their lips. When recess turns violent, it's up to Julie and a ragtag group of staff and students to survive after the last school bell.

The House on Oak Street by Ricky Wells
Spring break approaches and three middle schoolers look forward to their mini-vacation.  But when one of them goes missing, Ann and Roger find that no one will listen to them.  It’s up to them to rescue their friend or are they the next victims of the House on Oak Street?

On sale for $2.99!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3bkW0nF
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3bfTFdL 
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2ODuxDT 
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2SoPunc 
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2vYfoGN 
Nook: http://bit.ly/2UGhghX 
Apple: https://apple.co/2S7ViCt


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Audiobookworm Blog & Review ~ The Shrike and The Shadows By Chantal Gadoury & A.M Wright

4/13/2020

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Author: Chantal Gadoury & A.M Wright 
Narrator: Ryan Haugen Length: 9 hours 37 minutes Publisher: Parliament House Press⎮2020
Genre: Fantasy, Retelling, Paranormal, New Adult  Series: Yes, Book 1 
Release date: Released on March 3rd, 2020 
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The village of Krume is plagued by a haunted wood and a hungry witch. It’s been that way for as long as Hans and Greta can remember, though they have never seen the witch themselves; no one has.
When men start to disappear once again in the cover of night - their bloody hearts turning up on doorsteps - the village falls into frenzied madness.
Hans and Greta, two outcast orphans, find themselves facing accusations of witchcraft and are met with an ultimatum: burn at the stake, or leave the village forever. 
With nowhere else to go, they abandon their only home.
As they venture into the strange forest, their path is fraught with horrific creatures, wild and vivid hallucinations, and a mysterious man tied to the witch's past.
The Shrike is watching, just beyond the deep darkness of the woods.

​

​Buy Links Buy on Amazon⎮Audible

SAMPLE

review

5 STARS

The Shrike and The Shadows is a dark and twisted take on the Hansel and Gretal fairytle. I love this retelling! The author delivered a fast paced thrill ride that left me on the edge of my seat.

The narrator, Ryan Haugen, lent the perfect voice to the story as it leapt to life from my speakers.
About the Author: Chantal Gadoury
Amazon Best Selling Author, Chantal Gadoury, is a 2011 graduate from Susquehanna University with a Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing. Since graduation, she has published "The Songs in Our Hearts" with 48Fourteen Publishing, and "Allerleirauh" with Parliament House Press, with future titles to follow. Chantal first started writing stories at the age of seven and continues with that love of writing today. Writing novels for Chantal has become a life-long dream come true! When she's not writing, she enjoys painting, drinking lots of DD Iced Coffee, and watching Disney classics. Chantal lives in Muncy, Pennsylvania with her Mom, Sister and furry-'brother' (aka, puppy) Taran.
Website⎮Twitter⎮Facebook⎮Goodreads⎮Amazon⎮Instagram⎮Pinterest

About the Author: A.M Wright
A.M. Wright is an Ohio native, perched on the shores of Lake Erie for as long as she can remember. She is a graduate of Walsh University and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Corporate Communications, with two minors in Marketing and Writing. She has a passion for reading, writing, and drawing; and has a particularly strong love for shojo-manga and all genres of anime. When A.M. Wright isn't focused on her day job, she is sorting through submissions, writing too many stories to keep track of, and playing video games with her fiance in a townhouse that's just a fifteen minute drive from "The Roller Coaster Capital of the World."
Twitter⎮Facebook⎮Goodreads⎮Amazon⎮Instagram


A Word from Chantal Gadoury

Music is an important part of the process in writing for me. I’ve always been the sort of person who thrives off of the music they listen to, in any given situation. Road Trip? I have a playlist for that. A love letter? You betcha, I have a CD Mix I want you to listen to. Writing a novel, let me share with you my spotify playlist I’ve specifically designed for it!
 
When A.M Wright and I started to write “The Shrike & the Shadows,” I started a score playlist to listen to - to capture the atmosphere I imagined in our novel. For me, it was so important to be in the right mind-frame to write our dark fairytale retelling. All of it was inspired by the song A.M Wright originally shared with me, when we began to plan out our story:
 
In the Woods Somewhere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMk-Nb_viR8
This song played a major role in our writing, and inspired much of the story, the woods, and our characters.
 
Take a listen to my personal “Shrike & the Shadows” playlist that I listened to as I wrote. This playlist is mostly all classical/score music - as I avoid listening to music with words when writing. When I write, scenes almost unfold in my mind like a movie; so added dialogue can at times, kill the situation.
 
The Shrike & the Shadows Score:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ED7y9LvtdFeQBCbWKx28Y?si=VpL7CNNnRamli_Yf6oqY2g
You can also experience the Various Artist Playlist I created: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5KjrgXZsz8uoSyGppF6D59?si=-EgsqaisRc69yHZ7dsGi8g
 
Highlights:
 
Main Titles (Sleepy Hollow) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzDdneyRxvE
The Gravel Road: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ro4FHd51t4
Snow White: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNieoRfBqcU
A Window to the Past: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrZB9nPMvS4
Mistake of Your Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DquoNl7GsQ8
Main Titles (Chocolat): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7De42gw0jc
Show Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K79ig2PKP3Y
Day One: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DITy3T2BgbI
 
 
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About the Narrator: Ryan Haugen
​Ryan Haugen tried to write for a long time. He has nothing to show for it - in fact this is the first time he’s sat down to write since college.
Actually, he isn’t even sitting right now. He’s standing, and coming to grips with how writing has always caused him to deceive himself. So, that honest work tied to fiction would ever materialize shocks even him.
As a narrator, Ryan has no formal qualifications or training.
As a producer, he has an above-average grasp of Windows 10 and Audacity.
As a purveyor of twist endings, he would have you know he quit his day job to pursue narration full time in his home studio after 7 months of part-time narration, and 15 books narrated.
Ever engaged, passionate, and consumptive of all forms of media, Ryan floats in bewildered contentment at the notion anyone would want to listen to him speak for dozens of hours, but hopes you enjoy his youthful performances in the tales he tells, and that by now, you truly believe he is a better storyteller than he is writer."
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Audiobookworm Blog ~ French Illisions by Linda Kovic-Skow

4/12/2020

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Author: Linda Kovic-Skow
Narrator: Lucy Floyd
Length: 8 hours 57 minutes
Publisher: Dreamland Press, LLC⎮2016
Genre: Linda Kovic-Skow
Series: French Illusions, Book 1
​ Release date: Oct. 26, 2016

French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley is the first of two books based on my diaries from 1979 and 1980. Twenty-one-year-old Linda Kovic needs to learn a language fast in order to fulfill her dream of becoming a flight attendant, so she contracts to become an au pair for a wealthy family in the Loire Valley. In order to secure the nanny position, she lies on her application and pretends to speak French, confident she'll be forgiven once she arrives at her destination. This book captures Linda's real-life story inside and outside the Chateau de Montclair, detailing her challenges and triumphs as she tries to adjust to her new life with the hard-to-please Madame Dubois, her husband, and their two incomprehensible children. When Linda attends language classes at a local university, she encounters, Adam, a handsome young student, and her life with the family becomes more complicated, adding fuel to her internal battle for independence. Join Linda on her adventure of discovery and romance in an extraordinary part of the world.
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Author Interview

Can you give us a short description of your memoir, French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley?
An impulsive young American pretends to speak French to acquire an au pair job in the Loire Valley and her unforgiving employer’s demands escalate to the breaking point when she attends classes and discovers romance in a nearby town.
Can you tell us about some of the difficulties you experienced writing your memoir?
 I have to admit writing my memoir was more complex than I initially imagined it would be. My diary offered a great outline, but I realized early on that I would have to change the names of people and places in my story to protect identities. This was especially true with regard to my host au pair family. Acquiring permission from them was out of the question. If you read my book or listen to my audiobook, you'll understand. Other decisions haunted me along the way. How would I deal with the French sprinkled throughout the book? Should I translate the French along the way? Oh, and I really struggled with how much detail to include in my own love scenes. Wiping the sweat off my brow, I wrote and then rewrote these parts until I could read them aloud without squirming in my seat. 
Tell us about the process of turning your book into an audiobook.
My memoir  is based on my diaries from 1979, when I was twenty-one-years-old, and I knew that I could not narrate my own audiobook. I needed a younger voice. I also needed someone who could speak French fluently and mimic French accents. Quite a challenge, I’ll admit.  ACX was the perfect marketplace to connect with narrators who could fulfill my requirements. After placing my project up at ACX, several women swooped in and asked for auditions. One of the women sounded like a Disney Princess and another one could speak French, but the accent was off. When I heard Lucy Floyd’s audition (The Voice Maven), with her perfect French and authentic accent, I knew I had found my narrator. 
Do you believe certain types of writing translate better into audiobook format?
Yes, I believe books filled with compelling dialog and action scenes will make the best audiobooks. When I wrote my memoir, I avoided long, drawn-out descriptions of scenes and feelings. I wanted my audience to get to know the characters in my book through conversations and interactions. I also tried to compliment the dialog with cues, such as “eyes widening” or “stomach clenching,”  so that the audience understood the emotional state of the characters without me stating the obvious.  
How closely did you work with your narrator before and during the recording process?

Lucy Floyd and I spoke often during the recording process. Especially in the beginning. She sent me her recordings and I would critique her performance, pointing out areas for improvement, such as asking her to speed up or slow down the recording. She was so intuitive, so easy to work with. She retained her French accent even with the male voices in my book! The only accent she had trouble with, was my mother’s Croation accent. I sent Lucy some video of my mother and this helped her master this accent as well. 

What bits of advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Hire a professional editor. I mean it. You can’t edit your own book. You won’t see the mistakes because you are too close to the writing. It will cost you a few hundred dollars for a line editor, a bit more if you need some in-depth editing, but it’s the best money you will ever spend. I cringe every time I read a negative review where the main complaint is formatting, spelling or punctuation. You want readers to judge you solely on the content of your story.
Do you have a favorite chapter in French Illusions?
Yes! My memoir is divided into four distinct parts - The Dubois Family, Venturing Out of Songais, Romance and Escape. My favorite chapters to write came in the last part of my memoir. Throughout most of my story, circumstances required me to internalize my discontent and unhappiness with my life at the chateau. Within these last chapters in my book, I finally had the opportunity to expose my true feelings in vivid scenes filled with passion and drama. It was a thrilling, rewarding experience. 
If you were to describe yourself as a particular fruit or vegetable, what would it be?
I think I would be a Kiwi fruit. Not an everyday fruit, a little exotic, both sweet and tart.
I understand there’s a sequel: French Illusions: From Tours to Paris. 
Yes, my coming-of-age adventure in France broke into two distinct parts. The first book, as I’ve discussed, is about my time as an au pair in the Loire Valley. The second book, also based on my diaries from 1979 and 1980, recounts the rest of my story after I left the Château de Montclair. This second book is more personal and a bit more gritty. Oh... the things we do for love. 
Does your book have a hidden message for readers?
The most important thing I hope people take away from my French Illusions Series, is to take some risks in life even though there may be consequences. My experience when I was twenty-one shaped me into the person I am today. I learned some hard lessons about love, life and the importance of honesty. It's not too late to create your own memories, so go out and explore the world. Life's for living, after all.

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​About the Author: Linda Kovic-Skow
Originally from Seattle, Linda Kovic-Skow currently resides in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She has been married for 35 years and has two daughters and two grandsons. An enthusiastic traveler, Linda also enjoys hiking, boating, gardening and socializing with friends. "French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley," was her debut memoir. The sequel, "French Illusions: From Tours to Paris," recounts the rest of her adventure in France.
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About the Narrator: Lucy Floyd
Lucy Floyd is a professional voice actor offering a variety of characters, accents, and emotions for your next audiobook recording!

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Audiobookworm blog ~ Exposed photographer by Michaela James

4/9/2020

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​Author: Michaela James

Narrator: Kimberly M. Wetherell

Series: Scarlet Oaks Cozy Mystery Series, Books 1-2

Publisher: LW Media Group Ltd.

Genre: Cozy Mystery
Something sinister is going on at Bay Radio. Is it possible there’s a connection between the mafia-type men who show up after dark, the terrified young women they have in tow, and the ominous commune Scarlet’s sister calls home?
 
A troubled caller’s cryptic clues point to a man from Scarlet’s past. Could he be the key to breaking her sister Violet out of a seemingly impenetrable commune? 
 
Scarlet’s new boyfriend gets a crash course on the life and times of Violet, as they enter a world of shadows, sex, and secrets. With more than her own life on the line, Scarlet fights to save her sister.
 
Can Scarlet and friends, armed with only a harebrained scheme and spy store gadgets, solve this mystery? All roads lead back to the cryptic caller. Expose the photographer from Scarlet’s past, and the thick, scandalous web starts to unravel.
 
Jump on this speeding cable car with Scarlet and hold on for dear life. This fast-paced, clever mystery will have you laughing one minute and gasping the next. Spend time with the characters you’ve grown to love and make room in your heart for more. 
 
If you grew up reading or listening to Nancy Drew, you’ll love Scarlet Oaks. This is the second book in the Scarlet Oaks series. Continue the adventure - buy Scarlet Oaks and the Exposed Photographer today!

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Buy Links for Audiobook #2 Buy on Audible
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About the Author: Michaela James

Michaela lives near Reno, Nevada, where there are lovely walking trails and lots of sun. She was born and grew up in Hampshire, England, where there is less sun, but better chocolate! A professional voice over artist and the voice of a local radio station, Michaela enjoys watching great movies with her husband and grown sons, playing tennis and and drinking lots of tea.​

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​About the Narrator: Kimberly M. Wetherell
​
In Kimberly’s storied 30-year career in the Arts, she has been an actor, an opera and film director/producer, a published essayist, founder and host of several NYC reading series, and, on a brief hiatus from ‘the biz’, a professional boozy baker and restauranteur. Her bright, youthful sound, coupled with her wide-ranging and varied life experiences, brings nuance and depth to her compelling audiobook narration.

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Audiobookworm Blog ~ Visions of Zarua

4/9/2020

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Author: Suzanne Rogerson
Narrator: Guy Barnes
Length: 15 hours 46  minutes
Publisher: Suzanne Rogerson⎮2019
Genre: Fantasy
Release date: Jul. 18, 2019 ​

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Two wizards, 350 years apart. Can they save the realm of Paltria from Zarua's dark past?
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An ancient darkness haunts the realm of Paltria. Apprentice wizard Paddren is plagued by visions of a city on the brink of annihilation. When his master Kalesh dies in mysterious circumstances, the royal order of wizards refuses to investigate. Helped by his childhood friend, the skilled tracker Varnia, and her lover Leyoch, Paddren vows to find the killer. The investigation leads Paddren down a sinister path of assassins, secret sects, and creatures conjured by blood magic. But he is guided by a connection with a wizard from centuries ago - a wizard whose history holds the key to the horror at the heart of the abandoned city of Zarua. Can Paddren decipher his visions in time to save the Paltrian people from the dark menace of Zarua's past?

Audio Exerpt
About the Author: Suzanne Rogerson 
Suzanne lives in Middlesex, England with her husband, two children and a crazy puppy.
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Her writing journey began at the age of twelve when she completed her first novel. She discovered the fantasy genre in her late teens and has never looked back. Giving up work to raise a family gave Suzanne the impetus to take her attempts at novel writing beyond the first draft, and she is lucky enough to have a husband who supports her dream - even if he does occasionally hint that she might think about getting a proper job one day.​
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Now an author of four novels including the recently completed Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy and a Czech translation of her debut, Visions of Zarua, Suzanne hopes the dreaded ‘W’ word will never rear its ugly head again!

She loves gardening and has a Hebe (shrub) fetish. She enjoys cooking with ingredients from the garden and regularly feeds unsuspecting guests vegetable-based cakes.

Suzanne collects books, is interested in history and enjoys wandering around castles and old ruins whilst being immersed in the past. She likes to combine her love of nature and photography on family walks, but most of all she loves to escape with a great film, binge watch TV shows, or soak in a hot bubble bath with an ice cream and a book.
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Top 10 bands I like to write to

​Music always gets me in a creative mood and can be a huge help when I come up with ideas and write my first drafts. Music triggers emotions and can lead writing in unexpected directions.

1. Ben Howard – Atmospheric and emotional music that always inspires me. My favourite song is ‘Oats in the Water’.
2. Led Zeppelin – They have some really great fantasy sounding tunes like ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and ‘Achilles Last Stand’.
3. Halestorm – They are a great band to write to as they have a mix of rock and ballads. Plus Lizzy Hale is an amazing singer and front woman, a perfect role model when I’m trying to write strong heroines. Their song ‘I am the fire’ played a huge part in the end of my Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy.
4. Philip Glass – Classical music with so much emotion, especially Violin Concerto II from Akhnaten Prelude. That listened to at full volume is beautiful and tugs at your heartstrings!
5. Coldplay – Coldplay are my favourite band of all time and I love all their songs. They are a band for any mood whether I need to feel emotional for a particular scene or want to have fun and feel energised. I often have their albums played on random because it’s too hard to choose a song myself!
6. Hawkwind – The Chronicles of the Black Sword is pure fantasy. It’s based on the stories of Elric by Michael Moorcock. It’s perfect for setting the mood especially Zarozinia and The Sea King.
7. Ghost – Some of their music is quite dark, but atmospheric and conjures great images.  
8. Pink Floyd – They have written some very inspiring music and I particularly love the music on The Division Bell album.
9. The Black Keys – I love their groove, so any of their songs will lift my mood and put me in a good frame of mind for writing.
10. Avenged Sevenfold – Hail to the King album has a fantasy feel to it too especially the title track. I hope to use this as inspiration as I plan a new book series.

​About the Narrator: Guy Barnes
Guy or the Big G as he is known to his friends is a London/ Brighton based actor and singer songwriter and producer.

He has recently completed his first leading role in the film Typo out next year and played the role of Alvin Turner in American film Holly Turner also out next year.

Guy only started narrating audiobooks in 2018 and Visions of Zarua is his 2nd. He has also narrated 2 classics, Bram Stoker‘s Dracula and HG Wells The Time Machine.

In his spare time Guy is a passionate biker and cigar aficionado and he’ll not say no to a Sierra Nevada beer or two!

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