Book Tour Francesca of Lost Nation by Lucinda Sue Crosby: Review and Giveaway

Title: Francesca of Lost Nation

Author: Lucinda Sue Crosby

Pages: 283

Published: January 4, 2014

Genre: (an old-fashion) Romance suspense

Synopsis:

When a mysterious man named Matthew appears in the small Iowa town of Lost Nation, his sudden arrival raises questions about his past. Quiet with an apparent taste for rum, Matthew makes it clear he doesn't want to make friends. He isn't too pleased to be dropped off at Home Farm where the independent and eccentric Francesca doesn't accept bad manners or booze binges. 

Matthew doesn't want to form personal ties and intends to move on as soon as his damaged leg from a recent plane crash heals. But a series of events draw him into reluctant relationships: One with the feisty Francesca, the second with her 10-year-old granddaughter Sarah. 

In spite of her own reservations, Francesca finds herself falling for this brooding pilot but his past looms between the pair and what neither knows is that Sarah, Francesca's 10-year-old granddaughter, has encountered a stranger of her own... leading to a climatic confrontation that will put her grandmother's life in danger.

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* I received a copy of this book for this review. That did not influence this review.*

Right away, I was introduced to the main protagonist Sarah. Sarah was the 10-year-old narrator of this book. I was then introduced to her grandmother, Francesca. it was indeed different and unique to hear this book from a younger person's point of view. That is something I enjoyed. I don't read contemporary romance novels often, but when I do find the time to pick one up, I find delight in reading them. I really enjoyed this short and quirky read. Even though you wouldn't normally pick up a stand alone, contemporary read, you have to check this book out!

Francesca of Lost Nation was unlike anything I've read before. Lucinda decided to focus this book mainly on the friendship between a 59-year-old woman and her granddaughter, Sarah. The romance was just another aspect that really bought it for me.

The setting played a huge role in this story. Lost Nation, Iowa couldn't have been a better choice for this elegant and romantic story. The story was set in the early 1940s post WWII era. Overall an elegant tale with a dash of romance- nothing too dramatic. Every so often I stray far from my usual schedule, and in doing so, I pick up some stand alone temporary novels along the way. I was glad I read this book and don't regret a thing!

About the Author: Lucinda Sue Crosby

Lucinda Sue Crosby is an International Kindle Bestselling author and award-winning journalist and environmentalist as well as a published and recorded Nashville songwriter. She's also a former film and television actor, professional athlete and sports commentator. Lucinda Sue has always had a love affair with the written word. 

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My Favorite Beach Reads of 2014

Summer is finally here, and you know we all have those days where we're yearning for a day at the beach. I don't know about you but whenever I go to the beach, bringing a book is a must. There are some tips and tricks I would like to introduce today that are helpful to me when packing for a long vacation, or just for any quick day at the beach: 

1. Always bring a stand alone novel! Let me just tell you there are hundreds of times where I like to bring the first book in a trilogy to the beach. You're at the beach to relax, not to bring yourself to read something that's been on your TBR pile for as long as you can remember. 

2. Never apply sunscreen before reading a book! There was a time where I covered my hands in sunscreen and then picked up my hardcover copy of The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black. I totally ruined the cover. When I got home, it was sticky and smelly and just plain awful. 

3. I tend to leave my books out in the sun when I feel the need for a quick dip in the water. Dont! I left my book tanning for two hours, and the sun nearly burned the book to pieces. Keep your books well hidden underneath a piece of clothing or a towel. 

4. Lastly, always set up your chair and towel away from the water. If the tide rises high enough to reach your stuff, you're screwed. Your books and other important things will be soaked! 

I also have some favorite beach books that I would like to share.

1. That Summer by Sarah Dessen 

I don't think anyone could go wrong with a Sarah Dessen book for the summer. These light and easy contemporaries are the most probable choice for a day at the beach! Not too long, but at the same time, not too short. This book especially calls out summer to me because of its fun and relaxing cover. The title speaks for itself as well! I believe there are times where you could get away with finishing this book in one day. 

2. Deep and Dark and Dangerous by Mary Downing Hahn 

I'm a sucker for novels by Mary Downing Hahn. Deep and Dark and Dangerous is a scary stand alone novel about a vacation in the summer gone wrong. It's all the things people look for in a classic ghost story. If you're not into ghost stories for the summer, you shouldn't read this book. But if you're looking for some excitement, then check it out for sure. This is definitely the kind of book you would read for if you're only looking to read 100-200 pages. 

3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Okay, fine. If you're dying to read a series over the summer, the only one I would recommend is Harry Potter. Harry Potter is a long series, don't get me wrong. But people love a good series that will last them for the entire summer. 

You don't necessarily have to follow these tips. They are just things I find helpful to me when going to the beach. I would love to know some of your summer tips and tricks in the comments below. How do you keep your books safe from the impending heat wave? 

Branded by Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki: Book Review

Title: Branded 

Author: Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki
Pages: 318 pages 
Overall: 5/5

Synopsis
Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I've been accused of a crime I didn't commit and now the Hole is my new home.

Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain

Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won't die. I won't let them win.

The Hole can't keep me. The Hole can't break me.
I am more than my brand. I'm a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story. 

          Whoof! Gosh, the synopsis was quite dramatic! The characters were all down-to-earth and hopelessly romantic. The concept of the story was even better! OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG Ok, I better calm down because right now, I am totally fangirling.
          I mean somehow, you can never go wrong with reading a dystopian YA book! I picked up this book without even reading the synopsis. The story takes place in a dystopian society set somewhere in the near future where people are imprisoned for violating the seven deadly sins- Envy, Lust, Pride, Greed, Anger, Sloth, and Gluttony. Of course, our main character just had to commit the sin of Lust (sexual desires). When they are convicted guilty, they are sent to the Hole, and branded with the color of their sin. In Lexi's case, she was branded with the color for Lust, which is ultimately blue. Along her journey in the hole she meets Cole, who turns out to be her guard. Throughout the book Cole tried to hide his feelings for Lexi, but in the end he starts to develop some real, hardcore feelings. BUT... having feelings or a sinner is strictly against the rules and is punishable by death. SO dramatic and heartbreaking! However some parts were just way too predictable. For example, when they mentioned that one guard who was shot to death because he fell in love with a sinner. From that moment on, I knew Cole was going to fall for Lexi.
         This book was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I would definitely put this on my list if I were you. The best way to explain this book is by saying that it was a mix of The Program (by Suzanne Young) and some Deadman Wonderland (a Japanese Anime). I'm not 100% sure if you'll get my reference, but that is the best I can do.
          I am waiting... and slowly anticipating the next book in the series. This is a must read! Must must must read! Buy it. Read it. Love it. That's the three steps of action you should take when you think of this book.
       
Character Analysis:
Lexi Hamilton-  She was always very apologetic and willing, which didn't play well with me. I like swooning over bad ass female protagonists. Lexi just wasn't one of my favorites. I also couldn't help but sympathize with her. However over the course of the book, she did grow to become the strong heroine she was at the end. I totally enjoyed that sort of an epiphany moment. Props to you Lexi :D

Cole- The fact that Cole never anticipated he would have feelings for Lexi made me crack up! It was almost too predictable. He was sincere. You know, always there when Lexi needed him; willing to take a bullet for her; and let's not forget how he treated his adorable dog, Zeus. But in the end, he fell her Lexi.

Favorite Line: "I never planned on falling for you. You were just an assignment. But it just sort of happened and now... There's not a single thing I would change about you. When you smile, my entire world stops. All I see is you. I need you."

Characters:  I have the oh-so-delicious Channing Tatum as Cole. As Lexi Hamilton I have Divergent's very own, Shailene Woodley! Wow. Now that I think of it, they make a perfect couple. 


                         

Stacking the Shelves #4

This is a weekly meme created by the fabulous Tynga's Reviews

This week I've been practically nostalgic and too lazy to even read. I just recently received a package from Book Depository, so now I have even more books (#bookoverload). Anyways... I wanted to do  a quick post of Stacking the Shelves, since I haven't been posting much lately due to finals and prep classes. I hope you all enjoy seeing my book choices, and please comment if you found them interesting or just downright strange. Also, I don't think I'm posting this on the correct date. It's ok. I was never trying to be consistent. 

Books I've recently purchased

       

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin I've been dying to read this book! Literally... dying. The synopsis got me totally hyped and now, I finally have the book just where I want it. It pains me to say that I have almost no time to read this wonderful book (even though I would really like to). But for anyone who has read it, I would love for your opinion(s). 

Deviants by Maureen McGowan I've been hearing a lot of buzz about this series. Everyone loved the first book and now, the third books has been published. I'm hoping to start that series very soon.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner OMG. OMG. My wish is to read this book before the movie comes out. Hopefully, all my wishes will come true. 

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart I've heard some great things about this book! But then I read the blurb... I'm not so sure anymore. But we shall see... we shall. I'm always willing to try new things.

Book Blitz: Fan Art by Sarah Tregay

Title: Fan Art

Author: Sarah Tregay

Pages: 368 

Published: June 17, 2014 

Synopsis:

When the picture tells the story... 

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

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

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

Undercover with Sarah Tregay's Novel Fan Art 
Guest Post by Sarah Tregay 
I listen to a lot of audio books, and from time to time I'll read something on a Kindle. While both are convenient ways to get immersed in a story, I miss seeing the book itself. Because I am a graphic designer in my day job, I enjoy the little details in a printed book, such as the typeface, an illustration, or a beautiful chapter heading. Hardcover books are a treat because you can peek under the jacket and see the art on the binding.

So, in case you borrow a copy of Fan Art from your library or read it on your iPad, here is the art under the cover.

Also, Melissa DeJesus did an amazing job illustrating the graphic story within Fan Art: 

About the Author

Raised without television, Sarah Tregay started writing her own middle grade novels after she had read all of the ones in the library. She later discovered YA books, but never did make it to the adult section. When she's not jotting down poems at stoplights, she can be found hanging out with her "little sister" from Big Brothers Big Sisters. Sarah lives in Eagle, Idaho with her husband, two Boston Terriers, and an appaloosa named Mr. Pots. Her next book, Fan Art, will be released in June. 

Author Links
Website: http://www.sarahtregay.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3413449.Sarah_Tregay
Twitter: @sarahtregay
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahtregaybooks
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/sarahtregay/

Book Blitz Organized by: 

Bookmark Monday

Bookmark Monday is a weekly meme created by Guiltless Reading

Bookmark Monday is a weekly meme that features bookmarks! Anyone is free to join in on the fun! Do you have a bookmark you want to share? Just take a photo and link up in the linky. 

I received this bookmark in one of my books that I ordered from The Book Depository. The quote pictured on this bookmark is one of the most insightful quotes I've ever heard before. C.S. Lewis, author of one of my favorite book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, really took my breath away with this amazing quote! 

I recommend ordering books from The Book Depository. Shipping is free for every order, plus you might even get a free bookmark! Have any bookmarks you would like to share with me and the rest of the blogging community? Post them in the comments below, and I'll check them out sometime! 

Title: Daughter of Smoke & Bone 

Author: Laini Taylor 

Pages: 418 

Publication Date: September 27, 2011 

Overall: 5/5 

Synopsis:

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky. 

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low. 

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherworldly war. 

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real, she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands", she speaks many languages- not all of them human- and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out. 

When beautiful, haunted Akiva fixes fiery eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself? 

What the hell? What the hell did I just read? Is it wrong to be confused at the moment?

I dove into the book Daughter of Smoke and Bone not knowing what I was getting myself into (I tend not to read the synopsis just to get a better feel of the book).

The beginning was quite cryptic. There was talk of the main character, Karou and her ex-boyfriend Kaz, Brimstone, sketchbooks, and someone named Zuzana. I put the book down after reading the beginning... and then picked it up again realizing that I had nothing else to read. I'm so freaking glad I chose to continue reading... Boy, was I in for some excitement.

The story follows Karou, a daring teenager with blue hair actually growing out of her head that color. She was acquainted with her close family/friends composed of Brimstone, Issa, Twiga and, not to mention, her best friend Zuzana. A war was brewing between the seraphim and chimaera that Karou had no idea of. It was not until Karou met a gorgeous plot twist did she begin to realize the true state of her ability and the reality of this war.To Karou, meeting up with Izil to collect a monthly supply of teeth seemed like any other ordinary errand. Wrong. Little did she know that an angel had followed her around Marrakesh. By doing the devil's deed, Karou had condemned herself to a world of utter destruction and hate. The beautiful angel Akiva wished to attack Karou, but was unable to after seeing her face to face. To Akiva, Karou reminds him of the women that he fell in love a long time ago. Turns out that woman is not that far away after all. And the love story begins there...

[ Warning: Spoilers beyond this point are revealed ]

At first I didn't understand the Brimstone's whole teeth collecting hobby. It wasn't until later that the author revealed the reason behind his mysterious collecting. Brimstone was also known as a resurrectionist. He used the teeth to conjure and to create new bodies out of the warrior's bodies that had been slain in battle and war. The hamsas that Karou had on the palms of her hands were actually marks. They marked the bodies of those who had been conjured by Brimstone. And, of course, we can't have a good book without a major plot twist. Madrigal eventually ended up being resurrected as Karou! I think that's why Akiva fell in love with Karou so easily. He was falling in love with the same girl! OMG I KNOW I KNOW! MAJOR MAJOR PLOT TWIST RIGHT THERE.

I didn't expect this book to be that good. I mean, it was super super awesome! Do I plan on reading the second and third book in the series? YES YES YES! I just ordered the next two books so you can expect a series review in about another week or two. The excitement of this series has me hyped up right now.

And now... a message from the Ipad:

Character Analysis:

Karou- Blue hair, blue hair? I envy you. I have wanted blue hair ever since I was little, ok? OMG. This frustrates me. She was definitely a mysterious character. Throughout the book, Karou was always looking to find the truth about herself. 

Akiva- He was quite an enigmatic character. The author didn't mention his background, or anything about his history. I was basically left in the dark the entire time. But... that mysterious part made him all the more sexy. I think Akiva is the new swoon of the month <3 nbsp="" p=""> Akiva was a very romantic character because he was always striving to keep Karou safe. 

Brimstone- I imagined him as a giant toad, or some type of reptilian monstrosity. Yikes! He was a close friend/guardian to Karou. After the portals were closed, she was intent on finding him. "Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind."

Stacking the Shelves #3

This is a weekly meme created by the fabulous Tynga's Reviews

Books I've recently purchased 

   

       

Ok... 

I kind of went a little book crazy this weekend. I totally splurged on books! Like my book choices?

OMFG OMFG OMFG I'm so stoked about starting the Throne of Glass series and The Darkest Minds trilogy. Comment down below and tell me what you think of these new reads. Have any books to recommend?