Vampire Academy Series

Hear Ye!!!! Hear Ye!!!! All Vampire Academy Lover's. Where can you sign up for a contest that promises a winner the entire set, including upcoming December release of Last Sacrifice. It would be here. Don't miss out rush over and sign up for Sparkling Reviews awesome contest right away!

Review: Inconvenience by Margie Gelbwasser

Title: Inconvenient
By: Margie Gelbwasser
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Publisher: Flux Books (November 2010)
My Copy: Early Review Copy from Publisher
BookWhisperer Rating:

Description:
In fifteen-year-old Alyssa Bondar’s Russian-Jewish culture, having a few drinks is as traditional as blinchiki and piroshki. So when her mom’s midday cocktails turn into an all-day happy hour, it seems like Alyssa’s the only one who notices—or cares. Her dad is steeped in the nightly news—and denial—and her best friend Lana is too busy trashing their shared Russian heritage so she can be popular.
Alyssa would rather focus on cross-country meets and her first kiss with her running partner, Keith, but someone has to clean up her mom’s mess. But who will be there to catch Alyssa when her mom’s next fall off the wagon threatens to drag her down, too?

Inconvenience is a brutal and honest truth for a young Russian Girl living with her alcoholic mother. Gelbwasser gives readers a very active writing style from page one. This is novel that will reach out and grab the readers pulling you through page after page with little effort. I sympathize with this young girl on so many levels. First, there is the lack of attention to what her life is becoming to cover up the "inconveniences" of her mother. Second, is that more concern appears spent on what others will think of their situation. This child is living through issues that will cause lifelong scars, and this family seems more interested if the neighbor is scoping out their trash cans for liquor bottles. I found myself cheering on Alyssa's father when he finally grasps what kind of situation this child is living. The best decision in this books entirity was the decision to move himself and Alyssa out. An added bonus was wrapped up in this quick intense story. A sweet love story begins building between Alyssa and her long time friend. This was perfect, but I began to wonder about halfway through if I had misjudged his character. I was estatic to find that I was wrong about him, and that his own family issues seemed to be hindering his decisions. Adding the romance distraction seemed to add an upbeat moment for the readers, and overall changing the content of the story. This was no longer a sad and tragic tale of a daughter with her alcoholic mother; adding in this romance seems to twist to an empowering story for this young girl. Alyssa is having to break free from the inner child in this novel. On several occurrences Gelbwasser shows that inner struggle for this her, and what it takes not to jump on mommy's lap when you know she is wrong. I love the ending of Inconvenience it was not the traditional happily ever after, but a ending with hope. A glimpse of what is possible, and that change is on the horizon. I almost think that endings like these are better than happily ever afters. With a hope ending anything is possible, and it leaves the reader to imagine their own conclusions. This was an awesome novel that I would highly recommend.

Review: Gentlemen by Michael Northrop

Title: Gentlemen

By: Michael Northrop

Genre: Young Adult Fiction

Publisher: Push Books

My Copy: Review Copy Provided from Publisher

BookWhisperer Rating:

Description:

Micheal, Tommy, Mixer, and Bones aren't just from the wrong side of the tracks--they're from the wrong side of everything. Except for Mr. Haberman, their remedial English teacher, no one at their high school takes them seriously. Haberman calls them "gentlemen," but everyone else ignores them--or, in Bones's case, is dead afraid of them. When one of their close-knit group goes missing, the clues all seem to point in one direction: to Mr. Haberman.

Gentlemen is a crazy twist of assumptions that lead to a very brutal ending. I was shocked at the turn of events in this intense story. A wonderful read for young adults portraying relationship and consequences for bad decisions.

New to the Shelf November 27th through December 4th

New to the shelf is my way of spreading the word about some of my anxiously awaited books. I use this post to show everyone the books I have been waiting for that are being released this week. Check em' out below..

November 30th, 2010

Matched by Ally Condie

Description:
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.
The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

Review: Matched by Ally Condie

Title: Matched
By: Ally Condie
Reading Level: Young Adult Futuristic Fiction
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
(November 30th, 2010)
My Copy: Librarything Early Reviewer Copy
BookWhisperer Rating:
Three Stars

Description:
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

Matched was a very unique experience that I was so anxious for the chance to read. Not typically a fan of a futuristic novels I was desperate to give this book a try hoping for a broadening of my reading horizons.  I did find this story to be entertaining and very well built. My main drastic concern with this novel is the over all pace of the story. I struggled through many pages that I felt was lacking a smooth flow throughout the story. I found myself consistently pushing more effort into continuing this story. The storyline is a basic one with a structured society flows perfectly until two people fall in love. This would be a story that I would devour, but I was surprised to find Condie characters lacking depth that would hold my attention. I felt without truely knowing the characters was hindering the progress made chapter after chapter. I regretfully have to say that while I see this as story of potential; I was not sold by this first book. I am hoping for the best in future publications for this author, and I hope that the second book proves me to be totally wrong.

Review: Out for Blood by Alyxandra Harvey

Title: Out for Blood
By: Alyxandra Harvey
Series: The Drake Chronicles Book 3
Reading Level: Young Adult Paranormal Fiction
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Release Date: December 21st, 2010

My Copy: Review Copy provided from Publisher

BookWhisperer Rating:

Description:

Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends—or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?

Harvey continues to a long trend of favorites with this new edition to The Drake Chronicles. This is one of my all time favorite series, but this newest book has listed a new favorite in my book. I was so enthralled by these two characters I am honestly concerned about how she will continue to mystify me with the remainder of this series. Hunter and Quinn are such incredible characters that I just could not wait to read one more page. Quinn is a like conceited, but it is impossible to not find this character dead sexy. Hunter is the kick butt heroine that I have come to love from this author. The two of them together makes for a potent match that will have the readers up all night. Every interaction was a dangerous and mouth watering treat. I love how every novel is innocent, but wrapped in raw and heart stopping intensity. It appears as though each novel raises the bar for the next.  After the past two books surround the betrayal and lies of the vampire world; it was interesting to see the turn of events in this novel. The Hel Bair was still as proactive in this book, but the main story surround Hunter more than that of the Drake Family. This seems to have opened more opportunity for future novels, and I have made various assumptions about who will be next in the love line. With each novel it is interesting to see Harvey included past characters, and adding their indepent stories in the new installments. This is an awesome way to keep each of these stories alive though the legnth of the series. By far, this has been my favorite with the turmoil between our two main characters. The intensity of this particular novel was palpable, and easy to get lost in. In past stories the characters seemed to be incomplete without the addition of a Drake brother. In this particular novel Hunter is perfect; a talented hunter, superior student, and legacy that promises success. While Quinn is gorgeous, talented, and content with his life. This relationship is like a destined path that neither of these characters want, but once realized either are willing to let go. The turmoil in these novels add a danger factor that readers just can not seem to get enough of. Alyxandra always promises extreme endings, but do not underestimate her powers that will always promise a happy ending.

In My Mailbox

I love reading and reviewing books. I have had several 2011 books come in this week. Honestly, where could we ever get this amazing chances to read and reviewing so many books early! Thank you to all of the wonderful Publishers that send us these amazing books to read and review.

The Cellar by A.J. Whitten
Graphia Books (May 2nd, 2011)
Description:

The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell
Harcourt Books (March 7th, 2011)
Description:
The summer of 1889 is the one between childhood and womanhood for Amelia van den Broek—and thankfully, she’s not spending it at home in rural Maine. She’s been sent to Baltimore to stay with her stylish cousin, Zora, who will show her all the pleasures of city life and help her find a suitable man to marry.

With diversions ranging from archery in the park to dazzling balls and hints of forbidden romance, Victorian Baltimore is more exciting than Amelia imagined. But her gaiety is interrupted by disturbing, dreamlike visions she has only at sunset—visions that offer glimpses of the future. Soon, friends and strangers alike call on Amelia to hear her prophecies. Newly dubbed "Maine’s Own Mystic", Amelia is suddenly quite in demand.

However, her attraction to Nathaniel, an artist who is decidedly outside of Zora's circle, threatens the new life Amelia is building in Baltimore. This enigmatic young man is keeping secrets of his own—still, Amelia finds herself irrepressibly drawn to him. And while she has no trouble seeing the futures of others, she cannot predict whether Nathaniel will remain in hers.

When one of her darkest visions comes to pass, Amelia's world is thrown into chaos. And those around her begin to wonder if she’s not the seer of dark portents, but the cause.

Haunted by Joy Preble
Sourcebooks (Feburary 2011)
Description:
Anne Michaelson’s world turned upside down last fall when a handsome, blue-eyed and temporarily immortal Russian named Ethan informed her that she had a destiny to save the Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov, held captive for decades by the witch Baba Yaga. But Anastasia had her own thoughts about destiny. And Anne and Ethan discovered that some things aren’t so easily undone. Now, six months later, the craziness in Anne’s world hasn’t gone away. Neither have her feelings for Ethan. Anne still has powers she doesn’t fully understand. She’s still dreaming about Baba Yaga’s forest. And she’s got a new boyfriend – very normal and very sweet lifeguard, Ben Logan. As for Ethan, well, he hasn’t quite gotten over the events of last fall, either. And he definitely hasn’t gotten over Anne. In short, everyone’s haunted by something – or someone.

Enter the rusalka – a Russian folklore mermaid with a malevolent streak - and a particular interest in Anne. When Ethan suddenly returns from Europe, Anne’s world collides with the paranormal once again. Her heart torn between Ben and Ethan, Anne’s search for the rusalka’s identity reveals deep and startling secrets - including the true source of Anne’s powers.

Hexbound by Chloe Neill
Signet Books (January 4th, 2011)
Description:
Lily Parker is new to St. Sophia’s School for Girls, but she’s already learned that magic can be your best friend…or your worst enemy.

They say absolute power corrupts absolutely. Turns out, even a little magic can turn you to the dark side. That’s why Lily has to learn how to control her newly discovered paranormal abilities, on top of avoiding the snobs who think they run her school, nursing a crush on a cute sophomore with a big, werewolf-y secret, and fighting the good fight with her best friend Scout as they take on Chicago’s nastiest nightlife—including the tainted magic users known as Reapers.

Then Lily’s invited to a private meeting with Sebastian. He’s hot, powerful, and offering to help her harness the magic flowing in her veins in a way no one else can. He’s also a Reaper. Lily can’t hide her suspicions. But she’ll soon find out that the line between good and evil isn’t always clear…

What Comes After by Steve Watkins
Candlewick Press (April 2011)
Description:
A gripping portrait of a teen’s struggles through grief and abuse - and the miraculous power of animals to heal us.
After her veterinarian dad dies, sixteen-year-old Iris Wight must leave her beloved Maine to live on a North Carolina farm with her hardbitten aunt and a cousin she barely knows. Iris, a vegetarian and animal lover, immediately clashes with Aunt Sue, who mistreats the livestock, spends Iris’s small inheritance, and thinks nothing of striking Iris for the smallest offense. Things come to a head when Iris sets two young goats free to save them from slaughter, and an enraged Aunt Sue orders her brutish son, Book, to beat Iris senseless - a horrific act that lands Book and his mother in jail. Sent to live with an offbeat foster family and their "dooking" ferrets, Iris must find a way to take care of the animals back at the farm, even if it means confronting Aunt Sue. Powerful and deeply moving, this compelling novel affirms the redemptive power of animals and the resilience of the human spirit.

Wonderland by Joanna Nadin
Candlewick Press (Feburary 2011)
Description:
Sixteen-year-old Jude has to get out of tiny Churchtown. She has to escape her outcast status and her pathetic dad, who hasn’t gotten past her mother’s death. The one bright light is drama, her way out, if only she can get into the Lab, a prestigious program in London. Then Stella, Jude’s childhood best friend, swaggers in after years away. With bold and magnetic Stella by her side, Jude knows she’s capable of anything. But Stella’s influence extends well beyond the theater. Soon Stella’s wild and dangerous streak begins to cause trouble for Jude -- yet Jude can’t bring herself to abandon Stella and the attention she’s always craved. And besides, now that Stella’s back, there’s no stopping her. In Jude’s dark and tangled story, British author Joanna Nadin plumbs the aftermath of loss and the consequences of becoming the person you always wished you were.

She’s back. Jude’s childhood friend -- sexy, daring Stella-- returns to their stifling hometown, and life will never be the same again.

What did you get this week?

Meredith Willis is suspicious of Adrien, the new guy next door. When she dares to sneak a look into the windows of his house, she sees something in the cellar that makes her believe that Adrien might be more than just a creep—he may be an actual monster.
But her sister, Heather, doesn’t share Meredith’s repulsion. Heather believes Adrien is the only guy who really understands her. In fact, she may be falling in love with him. When Adrien and Heather are cast as the leads in the school production of Romeo and Juliet, to Heather, it feels like fate. To Meredith, it feels like a bad omen. But if she tries to tear the couple apart, she could end up in the last place she’d ever want to be: the cellar. Can Meredith convince her sister that she’s dating the living dead before it’s too late for both of them?

Review: Aces Up by Lauren Barnholdt

Title: Aces Up
By: Lauren Barnholdt
Reading Level: Yound Adult Fiction
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
(August 10th, 2010)

My Copy: Review Copy offered by the Publisher

BookWhisperer Rating:

Description:

Seventeen-year-old high school senior Shannon Card needs money. And lots of it. She’s been admitted to Wellesley, but her dad just lost his job, and somehow she has to come up with a year of tuition herself. But Shannon’s dream of making big bucks waitressing at the local casino, the Collosio, disappears faster than a gambler’s lucky streak. Her boss is a tyrant, her coworker is nuts, and her chances of balancing a tray full of drinks while wearing high-heeled shoes are slim to none. Worse, time is running out, and Shannon hasn’t made even half the money she’d hoped.
When Shannon receives a mysterious invitation to join Aces Up, a secret network of highly talented college poker players, at first she thinks No way. She has enough to worry about: keeping her job, winning the coveted math scholarship at school, and tutoring her secret crush, Max. But when Shannon musters up the nerve to kiss Max and he doesn’t react at all, the allure of Aces Up and its sexy eighteen-year-old leader, Cole, is suddenly too powerful to ignore.
Soon Shannon’s caught up in a web of lies and deceit that makes worrying about tuition money or a high school crush seem like kid stuff. Still, when the money’s this good, is the fear of getting caught reason enough to fold?

Lauren Barnholdt is another awesome author to be on the lookout for. I am reminded of my favorite author Simone Elkeles when reading this authors works.  Aces Up is an incredibly unique story about a young girl that gets mixed up in the world of Gambling. The book description explains this story about a world of Gambling, but when I began reading the novel I found so much more. Shannon Card is desperate to find money for her future. After her Father lost his job the family is forced to downsize, and Shannon knows that the money promised for her Early admission to Wellesley is no longer available. Her decision to obtain a fake id and birth certificate so that she can work at the local casino is the direct result of this family tragedy. Thus begins a downward spiral of lies that soon find Shannon in a world of trouble. Shannon is a honest and hard working student, but once caught in the grasp of easy money life perspectives begin to change. It is awful to see this girl in such a predicament. One that had it not been for the family crisis, and seeing her dreams flushed down the drain I don't know that she ever world have agreed to venture into this dangerous world of gambles and lies. This was a unique experience in the world of gambling that I was unfamiliar. Even with lack of knowledge this was a easy to read novel. Aces Up teaches the lesson that earned money is far better than the repercussions of easy money.

New to the Shelf November 21st through 27th

New to the Shelf allows me to spread the word about all of the books that I am looking forward to everyweek.

November 23th, 2010 Releases

When Stars Go Blue by Caridad Ferrer
Description:
A dancer driven to succeed.

A musical prodigy attempting to escape his past.

The summer they share.

And the moment it all goes wrong.

Dance is Soledad Reyes’s life. About to graduate from Miami’s Biscayne High School for the Performing Arts, she plans on spending her last summer at home teaching in a dance studio, saving money, and eventually auditioning for dance companies. That is, until fate intervenes in the form of fellow student Jonathan Crandall who has what sounds like an outrageous proposition: Forget teaching. Why not spend the summer performing in the intense environment of the competitive drum and bugle corps? The corps is going to be performing Carmen, and the opportunity to portray the character of the sultry gypsy proves too tempting for Soledad to pass up, as well as the opportunity to spend more time with Jonathan, who intrigues her in a way no boy ever has before. But in an uncanny echo of the story they perform every evening, an unexpected competitor for Soledad's affections appears: Taz, a member of an all-star Spanish soccer team. One explosive encounter later Soledad finds not only her relationship with Jonathan threatened, but her entire future as a professional dancer.

Invisible Things by Jenny Davison
Description:


What are you waiting for? Leave a comment with the books that you have been waiting for and when they are due for release.

Sixteen-year-old Sophie knows there is more to the story of her parents' death. And she's on a mission to find the truth. To aid her in solving the decades-old mystery, Sophie has enlisted her best friend, Mikael, whose friendship has turned into something more. It's soon clear that Sophie's future is very much wrapped up in the details of her family's past, and the key lies with information only one man can provide: her parents' former employer, the elusive billionaire Alfred Nobel.
As the threat of war looms in Europe, dangers to Sophie and her loved ones grow. While her determination to solve the mystery doesn't waver, forces beyond her control conspire to keep her from her purpose. Then, news of her great-aunt Tabitha's death sets off a chain of events that leaves Sophie questioning everything.
The more Sophie learns, the more she realizes that nothing—and no one—in her life is what it seems. And coming to terms with the dark secrets she uncovers means imagining a truth that she never dreamed possible. Full of gorgeous settings, thrilling adventure, and romance, invisible things is a novel that dares to ask, what if?

Heroes Til Curfew Cover Unveiled

My new friend Susan Bischoff sent me an email yesterday with the unveiling of Book 2: Hereos 'Til Curfew cover included. I was so excited to see the new look. Take a look at Susan's post with the unveiling here. Also, I might add reading the post I love the new usage of the word "awesomesauce", that is the greatest. Anyway, there is also details about the where you can find the first scene of this book. There are also details about a short story that readers can expect telling us what happened after Joss got home. EEEEeeeekkkkk!!!!! I can't wait to get my hands on that! Susan says that she is hoping everything will be wrapped up for January. Good Luck Susan, and I wish you the very best this Holiday Season..

EyeCandy on The BookWhisperer: Chain Reaction by Simon Elkeles

Chain Reaction

Perfect Chemistry Book #3

By: Simone Elkeles

Description:
Luis Fuentes is a good boy who doesn't live with the angst that his big brothers, Alex and Carlos, have always lived with. Luis is smart, funny, and has big dreams of becoming an astronaut. But when he falls for the wrong girl, Luis enters a dark world he's never known, and just when he thinks he's got life all figured out, learns some disturbing news about his family that destroys his positive outlook on life. Will that Fuentes bad boy streak come out with a vengeance and lure Luis to live on the edge like his new girlfriend and his own father?

To Be Released: May 24th, 2011

Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers

This is one of my absolute favorite series. I am in love with the Perfect Chemisty Series. Make sure you check it out!

EyeCandy on The BookWhisperer: Hereafter by Tara Hudson

Hereafter

By: Tara Hudson

Description
Drifting in the dark waters of a mysterious river, the only thing Amelia knows for sure is that she's dead. With no recollection ofher past life - or her actual death - she's trapped alone in a nightmarish existense. All of this changes when she tries to rescue a boy, Joshua, from drowing in her river. As a ghost, she can do nothing but will him to live. Yet in an unforgettable moment of connection she helps him survive.

Amelia and Joshua grow evern closer as they begin to uncover the strange circumstances of her death and the secrets of the dark river that held her captive for so long. But even while they struggle to keep their bond hidden from the living world, a frightening spirit is doing everything in his power to destroy their newfound happiness and drag Amelia back into the ghost world...forever.

To be Release: June 7th, 2011

Publisher: HarperCollins

Eyecandy on The BookWhisperer: Subject Seven by James Moore

Subject Seven

By: James Moore

Description:
Impossibly strong, brutally violent, and smarter than his captors: Subject Seven has escaped.
Years ago, scientists began developing the ultimate military weapon: deadly sleeper assassins housed within the bodies of teenagers. Now, Subject Seven, the dangerous alter ego living inside a fifteen-year-old boy, has escaped the lab and is on a mission. His objective? To seek out others like him and build an army capable of destroying their creators.
Hunter. Cody, Gene, Tina and Kyrie:
Five teenagers leading typical lives, until the day they each receive a call from a mysterious stranger--and learn that their destinies are intertwined. Subject Seven holds the key that connects them all. And a battle for their lives is just beginning.

To Be Released January 25th, 2011

Publisher: Razorbill

EyeCandy on The BookWhisperer: Eternity by Heather Terrell

By: Heather Terrel

Fallen Angel Book #2

Description:
The end . . or a new beginning?

As Ellie comes to grips with her destiny as the Elect One, her relationship with Michael grows tense. When she meets a mysterious boy names Rafe, things get even more complicated.

Yet the time has come for the Elect One to stand against the group of fallen angels who are bent on destroying the world. In order to face the immeasurable malevolence heading her way, Ellie tries to put her personal life aside. But she soon learns that whoever holds her heart also holds the key to mankind’s salvation — or destruction. As the end days approach, Ellie is faced with an epic decision. Who does her heart really belong to? And is her love strong enough to save the world?

To Be Released July 1st, 2011

Publisher: Harper Teen

Review: The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball

Title: The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball

By: Risa Green

Series: Young Adult Fantasy Fiction

Publisher: Sourcebooks (September 2010)

My Copy: Review Copy from Publisher

BookWhisperer Rating: 

Description:

When Erin Channing's favorite aunt dies, Erin is bequeathed a pink crystal ball and a set of weird instructions. Granted, Aunt Kiki (aka Aunt Kooky) always lived "outside the box." But now Erin and her two best friends are convinced that the pink crystal ball holds the key to their future-or at least the key to getting dates...

Consider Your Fate to Be Sealed . . .

Absolute knowledge is not unlimited; let the planets be your guide to the number.

There are sixteen ways to die, but four of them you will never see.

The future belongs to you alone. Other voices will be disappointed.

One rotation is as far as you can see. Only uncertainty lies beyond.

Very cute fresh young adult novel about three friends that find their world turned upside down by a Pink Crystal Ball. This was a very clean cut novel that I have come to adore. With love, lies, and friendship the author created a story that holds the readers attention. Characters are comparative to recommended ages; giving readers a realistic and interactive story. While carrying a swift pace that will give the quick story feel.

Giveaway: Last Door

Last Door by K Raven Rozier

This is the true story of a father reunited with his young son. He discovers, over time, that the boy’s mind is fractured into more than 400 multiple personalities that protect his secrets. The family’s lives are threatened when they discover he is also possessed by demons that seek to destroy them. The boy’s mother offered her son up to a satanic cult and to abuses so horrific that they seem more like fiction than reality.

How does this happen to a God-fearing family, and how do they deal with what is revealed to them? A young boy’s secrets could destroy this family, or, at the very least, bring it to its knees. When the O’Neal family is threatened by mysterious forces, cultic rituals, and a labyrinth of obstacles, they find out how far they will go and how hard they will fight to save one of their own and themselves in the ultimate, real life battle of good versus evil.  Everybody has a secret. Some are darker than others. What would you do to protect your secrets?

After reviewing Last Door by K Raven Rozier; I have the wonderful opportunity to host a giveaway here. This was a truly incredible book that I am not likely to ever forget. This giveaway is for US residents only. The author will be shipping one copy to the winner upon the deadline. Contest will run through December 1st, 2010 11:59pm.

To Enter

FILL OUT FORM HERE

Meeting K. Raven Rozier

I had the wonderful opportunity to talk with Ms. Rozier about her book Last Door. This was an incredibly unique story, and one that I will never forget. I recently reviewed her novel, and you can take a look at it here. This was not a story for the light hearted, and it is of a very serious matter that I usually steer clear. Fortunately, I took a chance with this novel, and it proved to be truly incredible. I believe that this novel created change within myself; moving me even closer in a direction that I have been slowly progressing for sometime. As a Christian, it is a constant change to better oneself, and give your life to the Lord. This book is a very detailed look at what happens to a family that is thrust into a battle with the unseen enemy. As I said before I will not easily, if ever, forget this novel. I thank Ms. Rozier for taking the time to answer some questions about this book, and I cherish the new found friendship with this talented author. This was a very interesting experience for myself, and I believe that many have felt the same.

Q&A

  1)    When did you decide to write this novel, and where did you come across this idea to retell Brendan and his family’s story?

Brendan’s parents approached me with their story, one that had been kept a secret for many years. When they related the horrific events of their lives, I immediately knew that I wanted to put their story in to a book so that others could know that these events take place and that there are courageous people who step up to do what they can to help victims of this type of tragedy.

2)    What are your feelings on demons/possession? Many people, like myself, fear this concept?

After subjecting myself into the world of the demonic, I can tell you that I want to stay far away from that world. It should be respectfully feared and absolutely shunned. There is much testimony of Jesus casting out demons and healing the possessed. Sadly, there are many modern cases from all around the world of people who are obsessed and/or possessed by demons. Their lives are not better for this. It is evil, and people should never dabble with anything that might open the door for demonic influence.
That being said, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7); and “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19).

3)    Are a Christian yourself?

I am a believer and a seeker of the truth. There is only one truth and many perversions of the truth.

4)    How did researching this story affect you?

My heart and mind was twisted and tugged in so many varying directions. I felt tested spiritually, emotionally, and physically because, in a sense, I was putting myself in to the trials of this family. It was extreme empathy in that I had to feel, as much as I could, what each family member felt to effectively portray that on the page. Outside research on the subject shocked me, angered me, and often broke my heart.

5)    Has publishing this novel, and giving light to the Satanic Cults, caused you any trouble?

Not that I am aware of, though I have encountered resistance from people who seem to feel threatened by the subject matter and become defensive in their attitudes. I have done book events in towns where the people will tell me about the known Satanic cults in their area. One woman even related to me that she would not go in to a neighboring town because there was so much satanic activity there. This was later affirmed to me by others who told me of their similar feelings.

6)    I have read over the details about the movie; any idea when this will be released?

I am very excited for the movie project. There are a hundred details involved in the pre-production that have to get worked out before shooting, but I am hopeful that  the release will be sometime in the coming year. I will keep you and your readers up to date.

7)    Do you have any other books coming up?

Since writing “Last Door,” I have published a biography on legendary Notre Dame Football coach Frank Leahy called “Iron Desire,” and I have been working on a screenplay called “Dustoff.”Additionally, I have numerous projects that are in various stages of development.