Friday, January 30, 2015

Book giveaways - Yes - an actual blog post!

Delinquent. Negligent. Absentminded.

Just a few words to describe my blogging presence. Sheesh. I guess life, work, holidays, etc take over. I recommit to posting a writing exercise, book review, book giveaway once a month. Maybe not all three but at least one! No more excuses. Easy to say now, right?

So, let’s get to the good stuff. I have three books to give away. Unfortunately, I’ll only be shipping within the US, and you’ll need to leave your email address if you want to be in the drawing since I am a techno-twit (thank you Rebecca Langston-George for that term). The giveaways are open until Sunday, February 8, 2015, 5pm PST.

If you want to be in the drawing for any of the books, just leave your email (someone (at) something (dot) com. If you want to enter only for a specific book(s) list it/them in your comment, otherwise you'll be in the drawing for all three books.

I love to be able to share fabulous books!!! And note, these are fairly recent, not too too old releases. Two arcs and one hard cover (signed).


First book up: HOW IT WENT DOWN by Kekla Magoon
Description: Publisher Henry Holt: October 21, 2014

When sixteen-year-old Tariq Johnson dies from two gunshot wounds, his community is thrown into an uproar. Tariq was black. The shooter, Jack Franklin, is white.

In the aftermath of Tariq's death, everyone has something to say, but no two accounts of the events line up. Day by day, new twists further obscure the truth.

Tariq's friends, family, and community struggle to make sense of the tragedy, and to cope with the hole left behind when a life is cut short. In their own words, they grapple for a way to say with certainty: This is how it went down.

I enjoyed this book and loved so much of the language. At first, I did get a little confused with all the characters. It’s uniquely told from many points of view and unfolds the story before you. The scenes I liked most were the ones between Tariq and his best friend Tyrell. There is truth and sweetness and I craved more of their chapters. Tina, Tariq’s younger sister also touched my heart. The book is so relevant and definitely worth a read.

Second book up: ALLIES & ASSASSINS by Justin Somper
Description: Publisher Little, Brown: May 27, 2014


Prince Anders, the ruler of Archenfield, has been murdered, leaving his younger brother, Jared, to ascend the throne. Sixteen-year-old Jared feels unprepared to rule the kingdom and its powerful and dangerous court, yet he knows he can rely on the twelve officers of the court to advise him. He also knows he can just as easily be at their mercy-especially when it appears that one of them may be responsible for his brother's death. Unable to trust anyone, Jared takes it upon himself to hunt down his brother's killer-but the killer may be hunting him, as well. Murder, betrayal, and intrigue abound in Justin Somper's thrilling YA series debut. Exploring the political machinations of the medieval court and the lives that hang in the balance, Allies & Assassins is a gripping tale of a teen torn between duty and revenge.

This is the first book of three with engaging characters, mystery, and romance. The chapters are told by different characters and I enjoyed Asta and Jared. It’s not fast paced, if that’s what you’re looking for. But it is steady and easy to read with lots of intrigue. This copy is also signed! (The second book is out in May 2015).

Third book up: ANATOMY OF A MISFIT by Andrea Portes
Description: Harper Teen: September 2, 2014


In this Mean Girls meets The Perks of Being a Wallflower tale, narrator Anika Dragomir is the third most popular girl at Pound High School. But inside, she knows she's a freak; she can't stop thinking about former loner Logan McDonough, who showed up on the first day of tenth grade hotter, bolder, and more mysterious than ever. Logan is fascinating, troubled and off-limits. The Pound High queen bee will make Anika's life hell if she's seen with him. So Anika must choose—ignore her feelings and keep her social status? Or follow her heart and risk becoming a pariah. Which will she pick? And what will she think of her choice when an unimaginable tragedy strikes, changing her forever? An absolutely original new voice in YA in a story that will start important conversations—and tear at your heart.

This book is the kind where you either really like it or you really don’t. It’s quirky, snarky with real characters. It’s also described as Mean Girls meets The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Some like that portrayal and some don’t agree. I’ve been on both sides of the fence and I guess I want you to make up your own mind. Go for it.

If you have trouble posting a comment, you can always use the anonymous button if you don't have a google account. Or email me your comment at adrussell (at) verizon (dot) net - using that email you can also find me on facebook and comment there as well.