Goodbye Dear Friends

Seasons come and go. As I move toward the next chapter in my life, I realize my priorities, and even the overall vision for my life, have shifted dramatically. I am finding that there are new projects and associations better suited to the growth I want to achieve and also accept that there are some places I simply no longer belong.

Effective today, this blog, Reading Indie, will be an archive. It is available for the taking if anyone wants it. It also has a Facebook page that will become inactive.

I, myself, am also walking away from the Authors-Professional Co-op. It is a wonderful group for new and veteran authors to find their place in the crazy world of publishing, and while I will continue to recommend it to authors seeking a community, it is no longer the venue I need.

Wherever you are in the world, whether celebrating anything at this time or not, I truly wish you all the very best. Be blessed and be happy.

Toi Thomas

First Impressions with Lily Luchesi at #ReadingIndie

Welcome to the author of...

The Paranormal Detectives Series

A mortal detective discovers the true Underworld of Chicago when he tries to take down a vampire. Alongside the enigmatic Angelica Cross, Danny Mancini must take down paranormal threats to the city, but his own psychic powers are coming to the surface. Undead exes, immortal witches, demons, and vampiric deities plague Chicago, while broken hearts and mistrust plague the hunters. Can Danny and Angelica compromise, or will the Paranormal Investigative Division of the FBI fall?

Let's see what kind of first impression she makes.

First writing award or professional milestone.

It was for Vincent, my villain in my debut Stake-Out. Out of 200 entrants, he got third place for best villain of 2015 and it made me so proud because I love my baddies, always have, and it was great to see others loved Vincent, too.

First character or topic that was difficult to write.

In book four, Right To Silence, my heroine gets kidnapped, assaulted, and tortured. After escaping, she gets PTSD and anxiety. Writing her first flashback was traumatizing for me, as I also suffer from severe anxiety that can be debilitating. I almost scrapped the scene, but am glad I didn't.

First time you collaborated with another author.

I have only one co-written book, called Soul Syndicate. It's in the Sigils and Spells boxed set, and it's co-written with Faith Marlow. The set and our story promotes diversity in the urban fantasy genre.

First time you considered yourself an author.

Release day of Stake-Out, my first book. A friend sent me a screenshot of my book surpassing the True Blood book series in our category and I just broke down in tears.

First chapter book you read by yourself.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume, I was six. I taught myself how to read quite young, before pre-school, but somehow wound up never reading a chapter book until then.

Well, dear readers, Lilly would like to know, 

"What was your first Halloween costume?"

And there you have it, folks, Lily Luchesi .

Lily Luchesi is the award-winning author of the bestselling Paranormal Detectives Series, published by Vamptasy Publishing. She was born in Chicago, and now resides in Los Angeles. As a child, she had tendency for being interested in all things "dark". At two she became infatuated with vampires and ghosts, and that infatuation turned into a lifestyle. She is also an out member of the LGBT+ community. When she's not writing, she's going to rock concerts, getting tattooed, watching the CW, or reading manga. And drinking copious amounts of coffee.

So, how bout it? What's your answer to our guest's question?

Author Talks #magic at #ReadingIndie with Karina Kantas

It's A Kind Of Magic!

Almost nearly every fantasy novel has some form of magic in it. Illusional Reality is NO exception.

Allow me to introduce you to some of the very gifted Tsinians

ATHRON from the generation of Zenith. Athron is a highly respected Tsinan because of his gift.

Zeniths are born with the gift of SIGHT. In a trance they see images of future occurrences a prophesy. While still in this state they inscribe the images, this is then referred to as an oracle. Unfortunately, it’s in a riddle that only a Zenith can decipher. There has never been a female Zenith. The generation are born male only.

SPARTO from the generation of Humal was born with the gift of ILLUSOR. He can create illusions.

GRENCO from the generation of Bolarg has the ability to grow nature. Fruit, flowers, vines, vegetables, anything that grows from the ground up.

ATHANIA from the generation of Ifreas was born with the ability to control and communicate with animals.

JENIN from the generation of Devka is born with the gift of FREIZE the ability to freeze all objects.

THYA is a Gantie, the rulers of Tsinia. And all Ganties have the gift of FLITE the ability to move objects with their mind. However, Thya is not a normal Gantie.

Not all Tsinians are born with gifts, but the ones that do, are taught how to employ and control them by ALKAZAR, tutor of the arts. It is Alkazar’s task to train Thya into mastering her hidden gifts.

"Author Talks #magic with Karina Kantas" copyright 2017 Karina Kantas. All rights reserved; permission to distribute through Reading Indie.

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Illusional Reality is a YA romantic fantasy.

Nobody expects to stare death in the face only to find out your entire life is a lie.
Rescued by Salco, marketing executive Becky finds herself in an unknown magical world filled with happy people that try to forget their land is on the brink of destruction.
Becky will soon learn none of this was an accident, and the council of Tsinia are certain her union with Darthorn's son, Kovon, will create peace. And although her future has been planned out, she gives her heart to another.

"llusional Reality was definitely one huge ride. The story is very unique, you won't find any stereotypical fantasy ploys in this novel! Karina Kantas has managed to do the almost impossible by weaving a thrilling story with romantic twists that will have you turning pages all night, and most probably give you quite a large book hangover.
S.H

You can get your copy of this thrilling tale of magic, danger, love and sacrifice from Amazon right now.

Content Rating: PG-13 to R  | Add on Goodreads

Karina Kantas is the author of the popular MC thriller series, OUTLAW and the loved romantic fantasy, Illusional Reality She also writes short stories and when her imagination is working overtime, she writes thought-provoking dark flash fiction. When Karina isn't busy working on her next bestseller, she's designing teasers, book trailers, recording audio or videoing small readings and then working on Twitter and FB posts. She's also the host of a popular radio show, Author Assist on the Artist First Radio Network.

Author Link

Now that's what I call #magic. Do you agree?

#NewRelease Tuesday at #ReadingIndie December 2017

Horror

Never Again by Lily Luchesi

In WWII, not all monsters were human. Sean Wireman was ostracized from Israel in 1509, wandering until he settled in America. He fought in WII, to defend the heritage he spent his life running from. In 2017, the demons the Nazis controlled return. Will this fight take a deadly toll?

Content Rating: R

Release Date: December 5, ‘17

So, are you in the mood for something scary?

Cover Reveal for Illusional Reality: The Quest at #ReadingIndie

Are you ready for the exciting concluding part of the YA romantic, fantasy,

Illusional Reality.

Thya returns to Tsinia and begins a dangerous quest to unveil the truth.
(no more info available the author is keeping the plot top secret)

The virtual party takes place on Sunday 19th November from 10am EST through to 16.30. Games and contests will remain open for 24hrs.

Everyone is welcome to join and you can come in your Pjams as the party is virtual.

Right here on Facebook. Illusional Reality The Quest Cover Reveal Event

But wait, there's more. 

Treat yourself to a digital copy of Illusional Reality book 1, and this gorgeous jewelry set may be coming your way. Win this jewelry set!

#Book Series Spotlight of House Blackwood at #ReadingIndie

Amzon.com links are affiliate links. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you. Please stick around for the giveaway at the end.
~

Stranger to Blackwood

House Blackwood Book Two

by Sharon Lipman

Genre: Paranormal Romance

via GIPHY

Would you doom yourself to darkness if it meant saving the one you love?

Ryver is the only telepath in living memory. Whether he wants to or not, he can hear the thoughts of everyone around him--their desires, their fears, and their darkest secrets. As a Vampire and Guardian of the Order, his skill is an asset. As a man, it's a burden he wishes he didn't have to carry. That is until he meets Ria. She's beautiful, shy...and human. More than that, she hears him.

A chance meeting brings them together, but the truth could rip them apart. Ria isn't what she seems. As her heritage is revealed, can they find the light? If they do, it will enrage an old enemy and threaten everything they hold dear. If they don't, one of them will be lost forever.

Add to Goodreads | Pre-Order on Amazon | Watch the Trailer

~

Bound to Blackwood
House Blackwood Book One

by Sharon Lipman

Genre: Paranormal Romance

via GIPHY

Would you surrender your soul for the love of the King?
Lena, a vampire and a Guardian of the Order, has been honour-bound to protect human souls all her life. Acting first and thinking second is what's saved her skin time and again in the war against the Fallen, but her disregard for orders soon catches up with her when her boss is seriously injured. Forced to take responsibility for her actions, Lena is thrust into the path of her very own kryptonite; Thorn. The raw power of his soul calls to her and his mere presence lights a fire within her that she cannot contain. With Vampire magic waning and the race in crisis, can either of them afford to ignore Nature's call? If they do, the future of the race is in jeopardy. If they don't, they will both lose the most precious part of themselves. Their souls.

Add to Goodreads | Amazon | Watch the Trailer

~

About the Author

A huge fan of the paranormal romance genre, Sharon Lipman started writing in her teens. It wasn't until she was in her thirties that she found a story she was desperate to share and House Blackwood was born. Her debut novel, Bound to Blackwood was published in 2015.
She was born in west London and grew up in leafy Surrey in south-east England. A lover of all things British, except the weather, she now lives in a tiny mountain village in Almeria, southern Spain with her husband and an ever-growing collection of dogs.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads | Join the Mailing List

Giveaway for a chance at winning a $10 Amazon gift certificate and an e-copy of Bound to Blackwood.

Enter Here!

#ReadingIndie Monthly Giveaway Winner & Hiatus Announcement

An impromptu post.

Guess Sunday afternoon would be more accurate.

This blog is going through a transition of trial and error on its way to being an effective outlet for indie publishers, authors, and book blogers to promote themselves and spread the love of indie books. The current schedule of posts and submission forms will remain open to any who choose to take advantage of them and will be handled and promoted promptly, however, as the only current admin, I will not be actively seeking to promote others at this time.

I am, however, interested and willing to open this blog up to a new schedule and format under the leadership of new and additional admins. I know of one person who is currently interested, but will not put this all on them at this time. If others choose to step up and take on this leadership role, I feel that this could be a truly creative and collaborative effort that could reach many. Please visit the APC page if you'd like to learn more about being a Reading Indie blog Admin.

A bit of house keeping now.
The Blogger followers widget/gadget seems to be experiencing some issues. I may have to remove it.

The Blogger Ambush Blitz is the most active part of this blog and it's a project that means so much to me. Thank you to those of you helping to keep the Blogger Ambush Blitz alive. I'll be making direct efforts to promote it more and gain new members in the weeks to come.

Lastly, the winner of this month's $10 GC or PayPal giveaway is Karina Kantas. Thank you so much for your continued support of Reading Indie.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For the time being, the monthly giveaway will be on hiatus. Until this blog can get into a better grove, I don't feel the prize is having the impact its meant to have. Again, I'm open to comments and suggestions on this matter, but will not post another giveaway until I feel confident in its impact potential.

Does being a blog Admin sound interesting?

 How about that Blogger Ambush Blitz? 

Be sure to congratulate Karina on her prize. 

I wish you all the best in your reading, writing, and blogging endeavors. Until next time, keep #ReadingIndie!

#Book Spotlight with The ToiBox of Words at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Books by Toi Thomas

In celebration of author, Toi Thomas’ birthday, on October 21st, all her ebooks are on sale $0 - $1.99 from October 20th – October 24th.

Legend of the Boy, In the Window, and Other short stories - Collection of multi-genre stories including science fiction, romance, and paranormal. The first title story is that of a boy who must destroy the world so he can save humanity.

It’s Like the Full Moon - A romantic comedy and the first in a series. The mild-mannered Rebecca gets caught up in a most unlikely love-triangle and her BFF Lisa isn’t much help.

Eternal Curse: Giovanni’s Angel - Giovanni’s a creature out of time. Mira’s a doctor trying to classify him. Beauty and the Beast meet Jekyll and Hyde in this paranormal romance with biblical influences. *40 Days and Nights of Eternal Curse- a nonfiction companion guide to the novel.

Eternal Curse: Battleground - A family saga that touches the past and future. Giovanni’s story will bring you to tears as loss and duty blur the lines of hope for what is to come. *Battleground Survival 101- a nonfiction companion guide to the novel.

Chip and Skip Need Each Other & What Does Joe Need - These two simple, yet vibrant stories teach young children, and those with special needs, the difference and importance of needs and wants, at home, school, and overall. Sold separately.

Plants and Animals Change Over Time & Land Changes Over Time - These two simple, yet vibrant stories teach young children, and those with special needs, the importance and inevitability of change in living things and the world. Sold separately.
Content Rating: G to PG-13

Author's Inspiration: The ToiBox of Words is my blog and the name of my future indie press. It represents the thoughts in my head, ‘my ToiBox,’ that eventually become the books I publish. My first book, Eternal Curse: Giovanni’s Angel was inspired by a dream, but my overall inspiration is limitless. My day job, of teaching, inspired my children’s books. My love of the cinema inspired my romantic comedy, and life itself is always pushing me towards creativity.

Authors Recommendation: Because I write in multiple genres, I have more than one specific target audience. Overall, though, outside of my children’s books, I write adult fiction that is suitable for teens to read. Fans of the show Supernatural or the book Angelfall may enjoy the Eternal Curse Series. Fans of the show Friends or modern retellings of Jane Austen’s work may enjoy It’s Like the Full Moon. And fans of speculative fiction will enjoy my short stories. Since I love angels, I’m offering a paperback GIVEAWAY you should check out; ends 10/24/2017.

Add Toi's books to Goodreads | Check out the EC: Giovanni's Angel storyboard.

Watch this miniseries about the comic book influences of the Eternal Curse Series.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

In terms of publication, paranormal is a genre while supernatural is a distinction or descriptor. 

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel.

So, which of Toi's books looks most enticing to you?

#Book Spotlight of An Imperfect Enjoyment at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

An Imperfect Enjoyment by M. J. Logue

London, 1665
Roundhead's twenty-year-old daughter, Thomazine Babbitt finally gets her fairytale romance - although her idea of a handsome prince is a little unconventional…
He is the scarred, middle-aged and slightly-broken Admiralty intelligencer and diplomat Major Thankful Russell; her childhood hero. Russell, however, always considered himself more frog than ‘prince charming’…
But as war with the Dutch looms and tensions run high in the streets of London, the passionate republican principles that saw Thomazine first fall in love with her rebel white-knight are suddenly suspicious.
Would a man whose principles led him to once take up arms against his King, turn his coat again and work against His Majesty for the Dutch Republic? Someone wants to make it seem so.
Accused of arson and murder, suspected of treason, dismissed from his post and shunned by polite society, Russell - with a disfigured man's horror of being conspicuous - favours returning to domestic obscurity, but Thomazine is determined to face down their accusers.
In desperation, Thomaszine turns to the Merry Gang, the demimonde ring of fashionable libertines headed up by the cunning John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester.
Plunged into a dark world of conspiracies, deceit, revenge and kidnap, Thomazine Babbitt will stop at nothing in her quest to claim back her hero’s innocence.
Content Rating: PG-13

Author's Inspiration: Forever Amber meets the Thin Man - a Restoration romance with the wit, elegance and black humour of Raymond Chandler.

Authors Recommendation: If you love underdogs coming good, principled romantics and heroines with a mind of their own....

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

There is a difference between UK English and US English. Advid readers look forward to these differences when reading stories based on specific locations, especially if they are written by a local of the region. 

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel.

So, does this Lond-based romance interest you?

#Book Virtual Tour with Alienation Scavenger Hunt at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Alienation by S.E. Anderson Pre-order Now!

Book 2 in the Starstruck series.

Sally Webber’s dream is coming true: Zander is back and taking her out for a night on the town–on a planet hundreds of light years away from Earth.

But when an accident separates her from her alien tour guide, she’s thrown into the seedy underbelly of an insane city where nothing is as it seems. Suddenly lost and desperate to get back home, Sally is willing to do anything to get out, even if it means accepting spontaneous marriage proposals, crashing some fancy parties, or joining what appears to be the space mob.

All she wanted was some decent interstellar pizza, but now it might be the end of the world as evil nanobots and an out of control AI try to take the universe by force, and the only one who can stop them is missing in action. Sally has no choice but to try to stop them herself–if she can stay alive that long.

4^th October UrbanHype 101 (go here for contest details)

5^th October Fantasy Fun Reads

6^th October Brhi Stokes

7^th October Dreams, Screams & Bookaholics

8^th October Ezeebuxs

9^th October Mackenzie Flohr Author Blog

10^th October Paisley Piranha

11^th October Karen’s Book Buzz Blog

12^th October Sincerely Karen Jo

13^th October Welcome to Hellbent

14^th October J.D.Cunegan

15^th October Readcommendations

16^th October Buried In Bookland

17^th October Indies Sci-fi Fantasy

18th October Madeline Dyer

19th October The NerdHerds Reads

20th October Bookish Slytherin

21st October S.E.Anderson Author Blog

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is considered the first true science fiction story that legitimized the genre.

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel. 

So, are you ready to take on this hunt?

#NewRelease Tuesday at #ReadingIndie October 2017

For your convenience, all images link back to Amazon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Fantasy & Paranormal

Cover Not Yet Available

Kindred (The Birthrite, #2) by Tiffany Apan
Occult
After the events in Descent and Sacred Atonement: A Novelette, Kindred challenges what is known about good and evil. Passion, intrigue, and secrets abound as history unravels. Revelations uncovered in previous installments are given new perspectives, taking the reader on a thrilling ride into a world where nothing is ever what it appears to be.
Content Rating: R
Release Date: October 31, ‘17

James: Witch-Hunter by K.S. Marsden
Urban Fantasy
After a girl's death on Halloween, James is dragged into the world of witches, and those that hunt them.
Content Rating: PG-13
Release Date: October 1, ‘17

Romance

In Times of Violence (YA Edition) by Karina Kantas
YA
Jade had been sheltered most of her life. Living in an isolated village with only sex and drugs to entertain. Her mother is an alcoholic and her father doesn't give a damn. When she goes to stay with her aunt in London, Jade meets fate head on in the form of Marcus, president of the Tyrants MC.
Content Rating: PG-13
Release Date: September 16, ‘17

Want to see more new releases? Become a patron and have access to monthly lists of, not only, new releases but free and discounted print books and ebooks. Visit Patreon to learn more.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

Preptober is a movement in the writing community where most participants in NaNoWriMo spend the month of October preparing to write 50k words in November by creating outlines, storyboards, character profiles, playlists, and more.

Be sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel. 

So, are you going to try any of these new releases?

#SundayMorning News at #ReadingIndie October 2017

Mark Your Calendars

New Release Tuesday will be on: Oct 3, 2017

Blogger Ambush Blitz spotlight, will be: Oct. 17, 2017

Book Spotlight with, the works of Toi Thomas, will be: Oct. 19, 2017 (there will be a giveaway)

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Authors

Don't forget to visit your page; submissions are always open for promotional opportunities.

Bloggers

Thank you for your continued support. Be sure to link up on your page.

~

Reading Indie will be starting a new feature where we spotlight a cool bookish or writing related Patreon page. First, we'd like to spotlight our own page, just in case you didn't know we had one.

https://www.patreon.com/ReadingIndie

For $1 a month, you can help us provide cool giveaways and reach more readers. You'll gain: 

-PDF of the Reading Indie colorable bookmark

-Free or discounted books update once a month

-New book release updates once a month

-Choose the theme of the bookcrate or decide the giveaway each month

-Patron-only polls

-Additional entries into the monthly giveaway... click above to see more.

Do you have a Patreon page? Contact us with your campaign name, link, and first tier. We'll be happy to feature your page.

~

Sell Your Soul: How to Build Your Creative Career by Russell Nohelty

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author because I’ve supported several of his Kickstarter campaigns and follow his creative business advice group and listen to his podcast from time to time. What can I say, I’m still having trouble getting into podcasts. In any case, I love this guy’s passion for his personal works and his indie press releases. I know I’ve learned so much from him already, so reading this book was a no brainer.

Initial thoughts- this book was great. It wasn’t too long, but it was a hefty length because it covers a lot of information. I like that, before the book dives deep into the how-tos of the creative business, the author explains the necessity of passion. Passion is the one thing I think, anyone who encounters Russell Nohelty, notices about him. He loves what he does and frequently reiterates that that has to be the number one reason a person decides to create something, whatever it is.

Then the book starts to dive into the how-to of business, but not just general stuff. Everything Nohelty discusses is directed specifically to creative people who want to make money with their creativity and break the stigma that all artists have to be starving. He speaks to the readers as if there’s a conversation happening. He’s quite frank and down to earth, but still concise and purposeful with his words. There are times when you can almost hear Russell yelling into the pages that yes, this is going to be hard, but it’s not impossible.

Nohelty is also upfront and honest about what has and hasn’t worked for him while leaving it to the reader to decide what they want to try because he or she might have a completely different experience. There are certain aspects of the book that feel like life hacks. They are literal step-by-steps of what he did, so why not try it yourself.

I feel like a large part of the book, when reading in between the lines, is about gearing the reader up to break out of their comfort zone. There are things he mentions in this book that I’ve thought about doing but just didn’t think that was the way things were done. Now I know that they can be the way, there are just so many people who are too afraid to try them. He also mentions a few things I never would have thought of, which I now realize is a reflection of the lack of confidence I sometimes have in my own work.

I don’t know that this is the greatest book ever written about the business of creativity, but it’s pretty darn good. I’d totally recommend it. Heck, that’s what I’m doing right now.

View all my reviews | Find this on Amazon

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Did you know?...by Reading Indie

This blog is here to support and promote self-published authors and traditionally published authors who are signed with small or independent presses not associated with the Big 5. But to be clear, we love all books here, whether indie or traditional. 

Be sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel.

Who or what are you most excited about this month?

Blogger Ambush Blitz Spotlight at #ReadingIndie Sept. '17 #BloggerAmbush

That's what they said! 😋 

I’m so happy to announce that the first round of this supportive and fun blitz was a success. Our goal now is simply to grow our participants and spread the love and blogger support. Drive traffic, drive interaction, Ambush a deserving blogger. 

The first round of Ambushes had so much variety and fun to offer. There were book spotlights, vacation highlights, excerpts, and more. Go check them out. 

Rainne’sRamblings was Ambushed the week of August 7.

Just 4 MyBooks was Ambushed the week of August 14.

WildGeese was Ambushed the week of August 21.

MackenzieFlohr’s Author Blog was Ambushed the week of August 28.

The Magic of Stories was Ambushed the week of September 4.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

The award winning book turned movie, The Martian, started out as a self-published ebook. 

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to check out our monthly giveaway on the side panel.

So, does the Blogger Ambush Blitz sound like something you want to participate in or at least follow along with?

#SundayMorning News at #ReadingIndie September 2017

Mark Your Calendars

As of now, there isn't much happening here at Reading Indie, so put your calendars away. 😉The monthly giveaway is still going strong, but it's not a bookcrate every month. This month we're giving away a $10 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash. Today, I'm starting a new feature where I'll post reviews of indie books I've read at some point. Some of these will be recent reviews but some of them will be older. 

We'd like to remind authors that all our promotions are open submission and are always free. We offer book spotlights, author interviews, and guest articles. All authors who promote with us are then added to our monthly social media schedule. 

We also have networking and promotional opportunities for other bloggers. You can list your blog on our page of recommended blogs and or join our Blogger Ambush Blitz. We also add participating bloggers to our social media schedule. 

For authors and bloggers, we also promote your events and giveaways whenever you let us know about them... And now, it's time for an indie book review.

~

Yesterday's Tomorrow by G.W. Pomichter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This isn’t my usual type of story to read, but I’m glad I gave this a try. I’m not a fan of most military dramas, but this is a story worth experiencing. It is pretty much what the blurb says it is. While I do wish the struggle of the people in the Blackout Zone would have been explored more in depth, there isn’t much missing here. As alternative realities go, this is one of the most believable I’ve encountered in a long time.

I recommend this to mature teen or adult audiences who enjoy dystopia and or military drama.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest opinion, which has in no way affected the rating of this piece.

View all my reviews | Find this on Amazon

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Did you know?...by Reading Indie

The best way for authors to increase their influence online (aka S.E.O), is to appear on as many websites and blogs as possible and have as much unique content online as possible. 

Be Sure to enter our monthly giveaway on the side panel. 

So, you know any authors or bloggers who could use some promotion?

#Book Spotlight with The Pharaoh's Destiny (Pharaoh Queens 1) at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

The Pharaoh's Destiny (Pharaoh Queens 1) by Markie Madden

The year is 1477 B.C.E. and history is about to change…

Hatshepsut, the Great King’s Wife, is thrust into a world of intrigue and politics when her husband, Pharaoh Thutmose, dies suddenly, leaving Egypt with an heir who is barely two years old. The Queen must step into the role of leader, and there are few whom she can trust.

When Hatshepsut is crowned as Pharaoh, she grooms her daughter, Neferure, to take the place of heir, rather than Thutmose’s infant son from another woman. Neferure, though young, is still older than the boy who should by all rights be king.

The future of Egypt rests in the hands of a single woman, the most powerful woman in the ancient world. Can Pharaoh Hatshepsut’s people accept her unorthodox reign, and her plans to usurp the men’s place as rulers of a Kingdom, decreeing that only women are suitable leaders?
Content Rating: NC-17 for steamy romance

Author's Inspiration: I've always had a love for ancient Egypt and her people. The historical figure who is the main character was the first female Pharaoh in history. After her reign, someone tried to erase her from history. Fortunately, they were not successful.

Authors Recommendation: Anyone who loves historical romance or ancient Egypt.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

We have lots of interesting content on the linked pages of this blog. Go ahead and give them a look.

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

So, does the wonder and awe of ancient Egypt appeal to you?

#NewRelease Tuesday at #ReadingIndie August 2017

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Romance/Erotica

The Hunger Within by Lily Luchesi

Rebecca Renfield's Mistress is the daughter of Dracula and has a reputation to uphold. Meetings with vampiric dignitaries, secret blood and bondage dungeons, and hunters now fill their nights. Is this world everything Bec thought it would be, or will she fall under the pressure of being Victoria's submissive?
Content Rating: R
Release Date: July 29, 2017

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

Less and less original screenplays are written each year as book-to-film adaptations have become the norm. 

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

So, are you going to try this new release?

#Book Spotlight with Paths Not Taken at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Paths Not Taken (A Hidden Beauty Novel Book 8) by Mary Crawford

Jordan Shepherd has regrets. Big ones. When she makes a seemingly rash decision which potentially costs her everything, she must come face-to-face with her family and start rebuilding her life.

Cristiano Romero knows a little bit about starting over after a catastrophe. He is trying to make it as an on-air talent covering the X Games, yet he still has the heart of a competitor. When he crosses paths with Jordan, he finds himself wanting to compete in a whole new game.

Can Jordan and Cristiano come to grips with the paths not taken and begin a life together?

Content Rating: NA

Author Mary Crawford I have been lucky enough to live my own version of a romance novel. I married the guy who kissed me at summer camp. He told me on the night we met that he was going to marry me and be the father of my children. Eventually I stopped giggling when he said it, and we just celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary. We have two children. The oldest is in medical school, where he recently found and married the love of his life, and the youngest is now tackling middle school.

I write full time now. I have published over a dozen books and have several more underway. I volunteer my time to a variety of causes. I have worked as a Civil Rights Attorney and diversity advocate. I spent several years working for various social service agencies before becoming an attorney. In my spare time, I love to cook, decorate cakes and of course, I obsessively, compulsively read.

Visit on Facebook | Pre order Paths Not Taken.

For your convenience: Book one in the series, Until the Stars Fall from the Sky is free to download. See the trailer for it below.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

What most people consider the modern age of self-publishing has existed parallel to the traditional publishing industry since the 16th century, though the economics, technological advancements, and distribution took a long time becoming comparable to the traditional industry standards.

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our bookcrate giveaway on the side panel. See the prize here. 

So, aren’t you feeling a bit romantic, now?

#Book Spotlight with Lizzie Borden, Zombie Hunter at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Lizzie Borden, Zombie Hunter by C.A. Verstraete

Every family has its secrets…

One hot August morning in 1892, Lizzie Borden picked up an axe and murdered her father and stepmother. Newspapers claim she did it for the oldest of reasons: family conflicts, jealousy and greed. But what if her parents were already dead? What if Lizzie slaughtered them because they’d become zombies?

Thrust into a horrific world where the walking dead are part of a shocking conspiracy to infect not only Fall River, Massachusetts, but also the world beyond, Lizzie battles to protect her sister, Emma, and her hometown from nightmarish ghouls and the evil forces controlling them.
Content Rating: PG-13

Author's Inspiration: The Borden murders were always fascinating as to this day, you still wonder, did she or didn't she? One look at the autopsy reports and photos, and I knew there was a "different" solution to the crime as to why she did it.

Authors Recommendation: The book appeals to different readers - those interested in history (it's based on the real-life trial and events, and includes trial excerpts); those interested in alternate history; horror and zombie lovers. Plus, it has a little romance and a mystery.

Add to Goodreads | Try some cool games.

Did you know?...by Toi Thomas

Aside from pure memoirs, many works of fiction contain biographical elements from the author's life.

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our bookcrate giveaway on the side panel. See the prize here. 

So, does this ‘what if’ have you intrigued?

July 14 is #IntlAuthorsDay! Let's celebrate authors at #ReadingIndie with a #giveaway.

There’s a lot going on in the world of publishing, but that’s not what this celebration is about. International Authors Day is about celebrating the people who create, write, and develop the case studies, the worlds, the characters, and the tales that we all love. Whether a book becomes a best seller or remain obscure throughout the ages, if someone loves it, then the person who wrote it deserves praise. On my blog, The ToiBox of Words, I have a saying I often quote because I truly believe it; “I believe authors are just as important to the world of entertainment as music groups and movie stars.” So, yay authors. Thank you for eons of entertainment.

Now, here’s what’s coming up tomorrow, July 14th.

International Authors Day – A Facebook event set up as a place to praise authors, find and share recommendations, and simply have fun. While this is not a sales event, I have a feeling you might see some deals on display. Check it out, come and go as you like.

Go to event.

Discover an Author, blog swap. Be sure to stop by the blogs listed below to discover new books and authors in the genres you like most (or just visit them all). And of course, there’s a giveaway. Be sure to enter for a chance to win a $10 Amazon GC or PayPal cash.

MYSTERY & ROMANCE

Devorah Fox | Toi Thomas

PARANORMAL

Lily Luchesi | Patricia Lynne

FANTASY

Mackenzie Flohr | Michael E. Dellert

a Rafflecopter giveaway

So, there you have it. International Author’s Day is one of my favorite days of the year. As admin of this blog and an author myself, why wouldn’t it be.

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

Anytime someone posts words anywhere, they are essentially publishing them. This is why copyrighting is so important. It protects words and ideas, original or creative thoughts unique to or originating from a specific person or entity.  

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our bookcrate giveaway on the side panel. See the prize here. 

Happy International Authors Day; gonna try out these authors?

#Book Spotlight with Descent (The Birthrite, 1) at #ReadingIndie

For your convenience, all images link back to Amzon.com. Your purchases help support this blog. Thank you.

Descent (The Birthrite, #1) by Tiffany Apan

Visions of infant twin boys, clouds, a young woman taking her own life, and a collision of space, time, and realms...

On the eve of Summer Solstice in 1844, four men in different areas of the world share an experience that impacts not only their own lives, but those of the future generations. The first man is Nicolae Ganoush, a young Romany fugitive from a slave village in Wallachia. The second is Jonathan Blake, an eighteen-year-old Irishman in the American Midwest who finds himself falling in love with a young woman from a nearby Sioux village. The third is James Livingston, a prominent figure in colonial America, and the fourth is Hector de Fuentes, a sixteen-year-old from Tuxpan, Mexico with special gifts and visions enhanced by a mysterious and wondrous cave. Each man carries his own inner battle, unbelievable ancient truths deep within their lineages, and demons that are much closer to home than any of them would like.

Later in 1931, seventeen-year-old Dorothy Blake, a descendant of Jonathan and his Sioux wife, is living in Plains, New York, the town founded by James Livingston. The notorious Fleming Orphanage has long fallen into disuse but kept by the town as a landmark. The buildings loom high on a hill, overlooking the town, taunting the townsfolk with its lore. On Halloween night, Dorothy ventures up with friends, and the group of six expects nothing more than a good time along with a few laughs. But they fall into a dark, brutal evil; one that extends beyond the orphanage and town of Plains, far back into history. Their descent is only the beginning…

The Birthrite Series is an epic journey into the vast unknown, plunging deep into the dark crevices of the mind, begging the question of what sanity really is and if the insane truly are. Are we really shown the whole truth of what surrounds us or is it an illusion? It also tells of deep-rooted love, planted centuries ago and a story of family, forgiveness, and redemption.

Content Rating: R

Author's Inspiration: A few years ago, I had a dream that I was talking to a person who would later end up being a main character in the series. I can't recall the conversation, but the person's presence stayed with me enough to start writing stories around him.

Authors Recommendation: Ideal for readers that want to escape into a good Dark Fantasy /Supernatural-Historical with Romance, Mythology, Hidden History, and Lore.

Add to Goodreads | Get a free preview

Did you know?...by Reading Indie

Book lovers write book reviews for books they like and don't like. The average reader only writes a review when he/she is unhappy with the book.

Want to offer your two cents, submit a Did you know here.

Be sure to enter our bookcrate giveaway on the side panel. See the prize here. 

So, are you ready to escape into this dark fantasy?