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An excerpt in celebration of the release of FATE & FORTUNE by Robin Daniels!

Book Blitz for

Fate and Fortune: Part One

By Robin Daniels

We're celebrating the release of Fate and Fortune: Part One, the first part in a Young Adult contemporary romance duology. Read the author's message from day one HERE, read an excerpt below, and come back on Saturday, September 22nd, HERE to read a second excerpt. Don't forget to enter the book/Amazon gift card giveaway below as well...

Fate & Fortune: Part One

By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 279 Pages

September 20th 2018

Bryce has liked Paige since they were little but has never had the guts to act on his feelings. Paige is devastated over being dumped by her long-time boyfriend and can’t seem to move on. They’re stuck in a rut, until fate decides to pull them out.

Both Paige and Bryce are talked into seeing a fortune teller at the annual Summer’s End Carnival. Neither of them buys into the mysticism, until the psychic’s predictions start coming true. Now, the most bizarre things are happening and there isn’t a clear explanation. Each of them must figure out if they’re the subject of an elaborate hoax or a bigger plan forged by destiny.

*This book is part one of two. Books should be read sequentially.

Goodreads│Amazon

Excerpt

(PAIGE)

THE PLAYERS: Paige-The Heartbroken Heroine, Eric-Paige’s Older Brother, Amy-Paige’s Best Friend, Jason-Paige’s Ex-boyfriend

Eric studied me before throwing his hands in the air. “You’ve wasted your entire break, Paige. Books, work, and the occasional TV show are not a vacation. I’ve been patient because I know how hard the breakup was, but it’s time for reality. And reality means getting dressed and coming to the carnival with us.”

I shrieked. “I can’t go to the carnival. What if I run into Jason? I’ve spent the whole summer avoiding him. I won’t blow it on the very last night.”

“What happens when you see him at school?” Eric asked. I narrowed my eyes, frustrated because he was right.

We lived in a small northern Texas town—less than four thousand people—and we only had two schools. The elementary school housed kindergarten through sixth grade, and the secondary school had seventh through twelfth. The middle and high school were in separate parts of the building, but for the most part everyone knew everyone and there was no way to avoid anybody. This meant there was a 100 percent chance I’d have at least one class with Jason.

“He’s got a point,” Amy said. “Wouldn’t you rather rip the Band-Aid off tonight, so you can avoid a meltdown tomorrow?”

“Maybe I could homeschool?” I suggested half-heartedly.

“If you don’t come with us, he wins,” Eric chided.

Amy nodded in agreement, then added, “You don’t even know if he’ll be there.”

“Yeah, right,” I grumbled.

There wasn’t a lot to do around here. We had a two-screen movie theater and a ten-lane bowling alley, both of which were older than dirt and smelled funky. If you wanted good entertainment, you had to drive over an hour to Amarillo or Lubbock. The annual Summer’s End Carnival was lame, but it was something to do. Jason would certainly be there.

I chewed on my lip in panic. “What if he has a new girlfriend?”

“He doesn’t,” Eric assured me.

“Who cares if he does?” Amy snipped, growing tired of my excuses. “There’s plenty of cute, available fish in our tiny pond. You can’t settle on catfish before you’ve tried trout.”

She thought she was being clever, but her analogy sucked. “Jason is not a catfish. Catfish are ugly,” I argued.

Eric rolled his eyes. “All fish are ugly. But trout tastes better. Think of what you’d be missing if you only ever ate catfish.”

“If I only ate catfish I wouldn’t know what I’d be missing, so I wouldn’t care.”

Amy rifled through my closet. “If you want Jason back so bad, then you need to try trout. Lots of trout—preferably in front of him. Nothing makes a catfish more jealous than a good-looking trout.” She tossed some clothes at me along with my towel. “Get out there, look hot, talk to a bunch of guys, and flirt a little.”

“Who am I supposed to flirt with?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Eric answered with a smirk. He leaned against my Taylor Swift poster, because he knew it bugged me. “As long as it’s not yours truly.”

I finally cracked, unable to suppress my laughter. “Um, I think that goes without saying.”

About the Author

The most important thing to know about me is that I'm basically a sixteen-year-old trapped in an adult's body. It's why I feel such a great connection to all of my characters and why I love to write romantic comedy. The kid in me just wants to be goofy. Besides being a writer; I'm a wife, mother of five, volleyball enthusiast and home decorating guru. My list of favorites includes: reading, Christmas, pedicures, dessert, steak, Arizona winters and most importantly, Diet Coke.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Amazon│Newsletter

Blitz Giveaway

1 winner will receive all 4 books in the Perfect Series along with a $20 Amazon Card

Print books are available to US winners only. International winners will receive ebook copies in lieu of print copies.

Ends September 24th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tressa @ Wishful Endings

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An Introduction in celebration of the release of FATE & FORTUNE by Robin Daniels!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Blitz for

Fate and Fortune: Part One

By Robin Daniels

We're celebrating the release of Fate and Fortune: Part One, the first part in a Young Adult contemporary romance duology. Read the author's message below, then come back on Thursday, September 20th, HERE to read an excerpt, and on Saturday, September 22nd, HERE to read a second excerpt. Don't forget to enter the book/Amazon gift card giveaway below as well...

Fate & Fortune: Part One

By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 279 Pages

September 20th 2018

Goodreads│Amazon

An Introduction to Fate & Fortune

I came up with the concept for Fate & Fortune about a year ago, but I was so wrapped up in my Perfect Series that it was placed on the back burner. Now that I’ve finally tackled writing it, the story has become a labor of love. Interweaving the plots between part one and part two has been much more complicated than I expected; a continuity nightmare. But in the end, taking on a more challenging project has strengthened me as a writer. My hope is that readers will find the premise different and exciting; and as always, that they’ll smile a lot and laugh out loud.

Fate & Fortune: Part One follows one week in the lives of Paige (who has recently been dumped by her boyfriend of two years) and Bryce (who has been crazy about Paige since they were little). It’s a contemporary romance with unexpected and unique twists that imply a magical element. I won’t go into detail because that would ruin the surprise. 😊 Readers are left to wonder whether events are being orchestrated by a clever friend or manipulated by fate. This book has a fun and comedic supporting cast.

Fate & Fortune: Part Two rewinds back to the beginning of the week and follows the lives of Paige and Bryce’s friends. This book is where you get the subplot of the story; the all-important look behind the scenes. You’ll find brand-new situations that fall within the time line of the first story. You’ll get some scenes that fill in the gaps from book one. And there will also be some of the same scenes shown from a different perspective and told with different inner dialogue. In the end, readers will discover who did it, how it was done, fate’s role in everything and if Paige and Bryce get their happily ever after.

Robin

About the Author

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Amazon│Newsletter

Blitz Giveaway

1 winner will receive all 4 books in the Perfect Series along with a $20 Amazon Card

Print books are available to US winners only. International winners will receive ebook copies in lieu of print copies.

Ends September 24th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tressa @ Wishful Endings

0 Comments

We're blitzing about THE RANCHER'S RESCUE by Cari Lynn Webb!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Book Blitz for

The Rancher's Rescue

By Cari Lynn Webb

Learn more about another Blackwell brother, read an excerpt,
sign up to review the series, and enter the giveaway below...

The Rancher's Rescue

(Return of the Blackwell Brothers #2)
By Cari Lynn Webb
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
September 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He isn’t home to stay

Until a mother-to-be changes his mind

Ethan Blackwell is back in Falcon Creek to save his family ranch after his grandfather disappears. When Grace Gardner reveals she’s pregnant with his child, she becomes Ethan’s top priority. But can he be the man he wants to be—preserving the Blackwell legacy and making a life with Grace—in a place he never planned to settle down?

Each book in the series will release as follows:
The Rancher's Twins by Carol Ross, August 1st
The Rancher's Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb, September 1st
The Rancher's Redemption by Melinda Curtis, October 1st
The Rancher's Fake Fiancée by Amy Vastine, November 1st
The Rancher's Homecoming by Anna J. Stewart, December 1st

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Harlequin│Kobo

Excerpt

“Good Morning, Grace.”

Grace gaped and slowed on the porch steps of Brewster’s. The other half of her child’s DNA sat across from Pops. Ethan in his worn boots, faded flannel shirt and baseball cap smiled at her, stirring warmth through her. He returned his attention to the chessboard as if he’d been playing with her grandfather for years. As if this was their morning routine. As if he belonged here on this porch, waiting for her.

Waiting for her to confess.

Grace’s hand drifted to her stomach, her slight bump concealed beneath her jacket. Why did the truth have to be so complicated?

Still she couldn’t quite stall that swirl of warmth inside her from seeing Ethan.

She should be hot from irritation. She should be annoyed with Ethan for intruding on her usual morning routine. She always shared coffee and stories with her grandfather before the store opened. Before the other employees arrived. Before the customers took over the day.

Except this morning, they were a trio, rather than a duo. What was it with people inserting themselves where they didn’t belong? First, there was Sarah Ashley trying to step into the family business for the first time ever, and now, Ethan.

Was it so wrong that Grace wanted one thing to remain the same? To remain normal? In six months, nothing about her life would be either. But she could at least have her usual mornings with Pops, couldn’t she? Surely that wasn’t too much to ask.

“Sit down, Gracie.” Pops pointed at the empty rocking chair beside Ethan. The same one she sat in every morning while she listened to Pops reminisce about her grandmother or his childhood. “Your Ethan here, he already took care of your morning chores for you.” He eyed Ethan over the rims of his glasses and grinned. “Can’t ever get this girl to sit. But I got her good this morning, thanks to you.”

“I can make more coffee.” Ethan’s hand was on a stack of file folders. He glanced at her, and his guarded tone suggested he thought she needed several cups to tackle the Blackwell books.

“I’ve been making the effort to switch to tea.” Grace reached inside her purse for her special ginger tea. She was going to need to steep more than one bag this morning. Sitting next to Ethan was unsettling. She cleared her throat to smooth the accusation out of her voice and looked at him. “You’re up early.”

“Trying to get some errands done before Katie notices I’ve left.” Ethan placed a hand on his white knight and started to move the piece, but then paused to consider the chessboard as if everything hinged on this one particular move.

Whereas for Grace, everything hinged on her baby and keeping her stomach from objecting to the morning’s excitement. Would Ethan expect her to say checkmate when she told him about the baby? As if she’d neatly trapped him into being a dad. And what about marriage? She didn’t want Ethan to offer to marry her because she was carrying his child. But would he believe her?

“Keeping ahead of Katie Montgomery is almost as impossible as staying a step ahead of our Gracie.” Pops stuck his elbows out and leaned on his knees, as if anticipating Ethan’s move. As if Ethan proved a challenge to her grandfather. Ethan shifted his knight, taking Pops’s bishop. Pops rubbed his chin. “Sometimes you get lucky.”

Maybe Grace would get lucky and Ethan would confess he’d always wanted to be a father and couldn’t think of another person he wanted to have a child with other than Grace. The tea bag crinkled in her fist. What a ridiculous thought.

Only fools relied on luck.

Review Opportunities

Interested in reviewing the series? Sign up for each book by clicking on its cover.

About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Blitz Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card and a copy of THE RANCHER'S RESCUE (print to US/CAN and ebook to international)
- 3 winners will each receive an ebook of THE RANCHER'S RESCUE (open internationally)

- Ends September 5th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tressa @ Wishful Endings

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We're blitzing about THE BLOOD RACE and WORLDS BENEATH by K.A. Emmons!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Book Blitz for

The Blood Race Series

By K.A. Emmons

Check out snippets from the month-long tour and enter the giveaway below...

The Blood Race

(The Blood Race #1)
By K.A. Emmons
YA SciFi, Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 321 Pages
July 27th 2017

All Ion Jacobs ever wanted was to be normal. But when you’re capable of killing with your very thoughts, it’s hard to blend in with the crowd.

Running from his past and living in fear of being discovered, Ion knows he will never be an average college student. But when Hawk, the beautiful, mysterious girl next door unearths his darkest secret, Ion’s life is flipped upside-down. He’s shocked to discover a whole world of people just like him -- a world in another dimension, where things like levitation, shape-shifting, and immortality are not only possible… they’re normal.

Forced to keep more secrets than ever before, Ion struggles to control his powers in the real world while commuting between realms -- until his arch enemy starts a fight he can’t escape. Now he has sealed the fate of the Dimension, severing their connection to the real world, and locking himself inside forever. But a deadly threat hidden in plain sight may cost Ion more than just his freedom -- it may cost him his life.

The Blood Race is the first book in K.A. Emmons' riveting new sci-fi/fantasy thriller series. If you like epic urban fantasy, fresh takes on super powers, deep allegories, raw emotions and intricate plots that surprise you at every turn, you'll love the first novel in Emmons' page-turning series. Grab your copy of The Blood Race and delve into a new dimension today!

Goodreads│Amazon

Worlds Beneath
(The Blood Race #2)

By K.A. Emmons

YA SciFi, Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 333 Pages

July 1st 2018

I used to think that seeing was believing, but now, as I struggle to stay alive below the ravine, I begin to realize that - good or bad - I will see whatever I believe.

“Who are you, Icarus, that the earth opens its mouth to receive your blood?” Sensei’s words were my last thoughts before I fell into the bottomless ravine, plunging toward my own death, and bringing about Hawk’s at the same time. Or so I thought.

I woke up underwater. I awoke in a strange and unfamiliar world, filled with maze-like forest, shadows, and nightmares seemingly as vivid and dangerous as reality. I had no idea who I was, or how I got there - I couldn’t remember anything, until I remembered her: Hawk. The other half of my soul.

I knew that in order for her to stay alive, I had to survive and find a way out. But that’s easier said than done when you’re trapped in a realm as deadly as your every thought - and dominated by a hierarchy of ravenous wolf packs.

Alerted by a dream, I realize that Hawk has left the Dimension to come find me. For an instant, I rediscover hope. But that hope quickly burns to ash when I realize that we may not be the only ones down here. Someone else with a thirst for her blood may have survived the fall too. And I may have just lured her right into the jaws of a predator even fiercer than the wolves.

Goodreads│Amazon

A Tour Recap

July 1: Author Interview with Jameson C Smith

If the characters of The Blood Race trilogy could jump into any other fictional world, where would they go? Oh, hands down Narnia. Because that’s where I’m trying to “jump into” every day of the week, yo. I’m still checking those closets.

July 2: Guest Post with Hot Town Cool Girl: Top 5 Tips for Aspiring Writers

#5 JUST DO IT. so many of us spend a heck of a lot of time, debating about whether we should write a book, thinking about how we would write it, wondering if we’re good enough, or psychoanalyzing every single detail.

July 3: Book Review of World's Beneath on Stories and Soulspeak

"Worlds Beneath is a captivating novel that pulls the reader in from the first page."

July 4: Author Q&A on Plottinger Twist

CAN I JUST GUSH ABOUT THIS GORGEOUS COVER??? I MEAN. LOOK AT IT.

July 5: Q&A with Author at Unicorn Quester

July 7: Book Review of World's Beneath at Inkwell

July 9: Book Review of World's Beneath at Paper Pizza

"What made the second installment in The Blood Race series so incredibly amazing was THE CHARACTERS."

July 11: Author Interview at Ivie Writes

Kate: "...we are NOT the things that have happened to us. We are not our pasts. Letting go is hard, but one of the most important things you will ever do."

July 12: Author Interview at Elly Lily

July 13: Author Interview at Rebecca Morgan

I’m also a surfer, karate enthusiast, and military wife.

July 14: Guest Post at The Book Sprite

Each time I sit down at the desk in the morning with my cup of coffee, I don't have a map or a plan, or a binder full of notes...

July 15: Book Review of World's Beneath at Totally Graced

"The ending, in typical Kate style, KILLED ME, and I am already counting down the days until Book 3 comes into the world."

July 16: Book Review of The Blood Race at The Red-Hooded Writer

"It's deep. It's full of powerful themes, breathtakingly complex characters, and intense twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat. If you want something emotional, gritty, fantastical, fast-paced, and theme-focused, I highly recommend The Blood Race!"

July 17: Guest Post at Christ is Write

Be the lighthouse on the cold and craggy isle, flickering vanilla beams into the billows of the storm.

July 18: Author Interview at Writings From a God Girl

July 19: Author LIVE at Livy Lynn Blog

July 20: Review of World's Beneath at Rock and Minerals for Him

"Kate has a way with describing scenes that makes one feel like they’re in it without being too wordy."

July 21: Guest Post at Audrey Caylin

Write about the things that make your soul hum.

July 23: Book Review of World's Beneath on PoeTree

"The plot is brilliantly woven and full of vibrant, real characters with wonderful depth and raw emotion. Amid the tense action, thought-provoking dialogue and text often had me slowing down to savor the book."

July 25: Guest Post at Musings of a Creative Spirit

The sheer joy I get when I sit down in the morning with a cup of coffee to write is immeasurable. And that’s my favorite part of writing.

July 27: Interview at Authoring Arrowheads

My writing zone at the moment is being lost in my head in my cozy, colorfully painted office, with coffee and a soundtrack of Vermont rainfall pattering against my window.

July 28: Book Review of The Blood Race at The Calico Books

"There were so many unique and such fierce characters. I especially loved Icarus, Hawk, and Fin. They had so much depth! I loved watching the growth and maturity that happens in this novel..."

July 29: Book Review of The Blood Race on Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors

"The character development, the fascinating originality of the Dimension, the Christian allegory woven through, it was really good."

July 31: Book Review of The Blood Race and Author Interview at Oh So Priceless

"The concept is completely original and you're immediately drawn in and enthralled by the story. I started reading it and I just could not put it down!"

About the Author

When she’s not hermiting away in her colorfully-painted home office writing her next science fiction, passionate story-teller and adventurer Kate Emmons is probably on the road for a surf or hiking trip, listening to vinyls, or going for a power run. Emmons’ debut novel The Blood Race is the first book in her YA science fiction/fantasy thriller series. Get connected with Kate on your favorite social platform, and be sure to check out http://kaemmons.com/.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram

Blitz Giveaway

- 3 winners will win an ebook of THE BLOOD RACE

- Open internationally
- Ends August 19th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Laura BurgandyIce

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We're blitzing about the start of this new series with THE RANCHER'S TWINS by Carol Ross!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Book Blitz for

The Rancher's Twins

By Carol Ross

Learn more about the start of this new Harlequin Heartwarming series, read an
excerpt from this first book, sign up to review them all, and enter the giveaway below...

Note from the Author

Funny how the waning twilight of life shines so brightly on one’s mistakes. Nearing his eightieth birthday, family patriarch Elias Blackwell can only hope it’s not too late to rectify a few of his. Namely, his relationships with his five grandsons, Jonathon, Ethan, Ben, Tyler, and Chance. With both the operation of the Blackwell Family Ranch and the boys’ upbringing entrusted to him after the tragic death of his son and daughter-in-law, he made a mess of both. Now the boys are scattered to the winds and the family legacy is in jeopardy. Bringing his family back together is going to take every bit of the ingenuity, shrewdness, and tenacity Elias is known for. And, yes, maybe it’ll even take a bit of deception to instigate the Return of the Blackwell Brothers.

Each subsequent book in the series will release as follows:

The Rancher's Twins by Carol Ross, August 1st
The Rancher's Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb, September 1st

The Rancher's Redemption by Melinda Curtis, October 1st

The Rancher's Fake Fiancée by Amy Vastine, November 1st

The Rancher's Homecoming by Anna J. Stewart, December 1st

In book one, The Rancher’s Twins, single father and rancher Jon Blackwell needs help. His five-year-old twin girls are out of control, it’s calving season, and his grandfather is MIA. Hiring a real nanny, a professional childcare worker from an accredited agency with years of experience, turns out to be the best decision ever. Lydia is amazing. She adores the girls. The girls love her. Even as Jon wonders if she’s too good to be true, he finds himself smitten, too. What he doesn’t know is that Lydia isn’t a professional at all. She’s on the run and using the ranch to hide out. Just when Jon begins to believe that life might actually be as sweet as Lydia’s smile, her past shows up and threatens to destroy them all.

― Carol

The Rancher's Twins

(Return of the Blackwell Brothers #1)
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She’s not the country nanny he advertised for

But she could be perfect for him…

Jon Blackwell needs a woman ready to tackle the duties of a cattle ranch and two lively, take-no-prisoners twin girls. But ever since Lydia Newbury showed up at his six-generation Montana spread, the frazzled single father is rethinking, well, everything. The Philadelphia dazzler is a marvel. What he doesn’t know is the secret that has Lydia on the run…

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Harlequin│Kobo

Excerpt

THAT WAS THE moment Lydia realized that she’d talked herself into a corner. She didn’t want to lie to him. Of course, she was sort of lying to him by being here as it was. But that was different. She’d had no idea that she’d fall in love—with him, his girls, the ranch, Falcon Creek. “I just kind of fell into it. All the jobs and experiences I’ve had seemed to point me in this direction. When my friend saw the position available, he encouraged me to take it.” That felt good, truthful. “And I’m so glad I did. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“But...how is that possible?”

“What do you mean?”

“Stuck out here in the middle of nowhere taking care of someone else’s kids? This is the life you want?”

Lydia stared back at him, hoping her heart wasn’t showing in her eyes. “Um...” She turned and held her arms out in front of her. “This isn’t exactly nowhere. Pretty sure it’s the most beautiful place on earth.”

“I’m not trying to put you on the spot here, it’s just that I’m wondering why.”

In that moment, she wished she could tell him everything. But what would he think of her? There wasn’t a situation in the world that would cause Jon Blackwell to run from his problems the way she’d always run from hers. Maybe, she could tell him a little, though. Tanner’s warnings surfaced but she brushed them away. She’d keep things vague.

“Well, Jon, I’ve made some mistakes. I haven’t had great luck with relationships.” With a little grimace, she went on, “There’s no luck involved. It’s more that I get involved with the wrong guys. The last one was a real piece of work. I had a difficult time getting out of the relationship.” Gripping the rock she’d gathered, she continued, “That’s part of the reason that I took this job, to get away from him. I needed to get out of Philadelphia.”

Jon’s eyes homed in on her like a laser beam. “Lydia, did some guy...? What are you talking about? If someone hurt you, I’d like to know about it.”

Lydia’s heart fluttered helplessly in her chest. She couldn’t help but wonder how it would feel to have a man protect her for once, or at least to not want to hurt her. And not just any man, but this man, who was strong and smart and good. Too good, maybe, because he ended up with a woman who took advantage of that goodness. She ignored the little voice that reminded her that she was currently doing the same.

But she didn’t want to be. She wanted to protect him, too, from the wiles of Ava and Marilee. She wanted to help him in every way that she could—take care of his girls, support him on the ranch and keep him from working too hard. She wanted to be his partner. And love them all in the way they deserved.

“Um...he didn’t hurt me physically.” Lydia had often thought he wanted to. She suspected he’d been abusive in other relationships. “But he could be rough and the threat of more was always there. Verbal abuse, yes. I worked for him so that made it all worse.” She sighed. It was so difficult to explain without explaining. “At the end, I lived in constant fear.”

Lydia watched his mouth flatten out to a thin, angry line. “You deserve so much better.”

“Thank you. I know I want better.”

“What do you want?” His voice was low and deep and somehow made her want to cry a little.

You, her heart answered immediately. It hurt that she couldn’t say it, so she looked out at the view again. Doing her best to lighten the moment, she tossed the rock from the cliff and answered in a teasing tone, “Oh, I don’t know. Not much really. Just love, safety, security... And someday...maybe my own horse.”

Her attempt at levity didn’t work.

Jon looked out toward the horizon. He was still and appeared calm. But Lydia knew him better now. Tension radiated from him and she knew it wasn’t anger. Her breath stalled as her pulse began to pound fast and hard. His expression was pure Rancher Blackwell—grave and solemn and almost unreadable. Almost, because she could see the vulnerability there. She knew he had feelings for her, too. The attraction between them had been simmering hotly since he’d kissed her on Easter. What she hadn’t known was what those feelings entailed or how strong they were. But now she did. And at that moment, all of the reasons why they couldn’t be together flew out of her head. Which left only her heart, aching and craving his love. Just say it, she silently pleaded. Because no matter what happened long-term she wanted to hear the words at least once in her life from a person she wanted to hear them from.

He faced her again, his gray-blue gaze ensnaring hers. Her heart jumped into her throat. “What if I told you that I want those things, too? And what if I told you that I didn’t ever want to let you go, not even when the girls leave for college?”

Review Opportunities

Interested in reviewing the series? Sign up for each book by clicking on its cover.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Carol Ross grew up in small town America right between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, in a place where you can go deep sea fishing in the morning and then hit the ski slopes the same afternoon. The daughter of what is now known as free range parents, she developed a love of the outdoors at a very early age. As a writer, Carol loves to breathe the life she has lived into the characters she creates, grateful for the “research material” that every questionable decision, adrenaline-charged misstep, and near-death experience has provided.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│BookBub

Blitz Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card and a copy of THE RANCHER'S TWINS (print to US/CAN and ebook to international)
- 3 winners will each receive a copy of THE RANCHER'S TWINS (print to US/CAN and ebook to international)

- Ends August 5th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tressa @ Wishful Endings

0 Comments

We're blitzing about THE HEART OF ALEPPO by Ammar Habib!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Book Blitz for

The Heart of Aleppo

By Ammar Habib

Learn more about this new Young Adult release, read an excerpt, and enter the giveaway below...

Why Ammar Wrote The Heart of Aleppo:

Writing Playlist for The Heart of Aleppo

1. “Sadness and Sorrow”

2. “Sound of Hugh Glass”

3. “Despair”

4. “Man of the World”

I personally believe that the Syrian Civil War is one of this generation’s greatest tragedies. With the way it is proceeding, it’ll be remembered by future generations in the same manner that we remember the Rwandan genocide and the Bosnian War of the 1990s.

The motivation for writing The Heart of Aleppo was simple: I wished to bring more global attention to this crisis. Although the characters are fictitious, this novel accurately depicts the events that transpired in Aleppo during the summer of 2012. I hope that reading this will lead readers to have a greater understanding of the plight those in Syria face, as well as those in other war-torn regions. If this work helps garner more attention for those in Syria, then I will have considered this project a success.

In an over-politicized world, my wish is for this work to humanize those we call “refugees”. The Heart of Aleppo is not about the politics of the Syrian Civil War or any other conflict. Its aim is not to convince readers to support any faction or political party. Instead, this story is about the unbreakable spirit of humanity. It is about how humanity often shows its true strength during the darkest times.

I truly hope that these themes of hope and strength will resonate with readers. I know that simply writing this The Heart of Aleppo changed me as a person, and it made me more aware of everything that transpires in the world around me. Although the world will never be perfect, I believe that if we keep our faith in the human spirit and keep striving to always better ourselves and those around us, then we can create a little piece of heaven on earth.

―Ammar

The Heart of Aleppo:

A Story of the Syrian Civil War
By Ammar Habib
YA Contemporary

ebook, 235 Pages
July 26th 2018

After standing for over 7,000 years, Aleppo's ruin came overnight. Separated from his family during the night the rebels attacked the city, thirteen-year-old Zaid Kadir is lost in the middle of a war zone. Alongside his friends, he is forced to survive the dangers of a civil war he does not even fully understand. Zaid witnesses the destruction of the brutal Syrian Civil War as it grows more deadly by the day and rips his city apart. However, as he braves this destruction, as he desperately tries to survive this catastrophe, he discovers something. Zaid realizes that it is in the darkest hours when humanity's spirit of hope burns brightest.

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Excerpt

Two days before Nabeel leaves for the last time, I find him standing at the kitchen counter with his friend, Zakariah. I don’t know his rank, but Zakariah serves directly under Nabeel in the army and only lives two miles down the road. The two of them always seem to be on leave at the same time.

Their voices are low, almost secretive, but I catch the look in Nabeel’s eye. Except back then, I didn’t recognize it.

“What are you guys talking about?”

Seeing me enter and hearing my voice, they both look my way before exchanging glances. That gleam in Nabeel’s eyes disappears.

I excitedly run up to the two of them. “Tell me!”

Nabeel looks back down at me as he stops leaning against the counter. Reaching down, he ruffles my hair. “You’re too young to know about that, Zaid.”

“Aww, what’s that about? I’m not part of the group now—”

My brother playfully flicks me on the forehead as he crouches down a little. “I’m sorry, buddy. Maybe next time.”

“You’re always saying that.”

Zakariah laughs as he comes closer to me. He puts his hand on my shoulder. “That’s just not fair, Nabeel. You’re a horrible brother for leaving Zaid out like that.”

I see a concerned expression momentarily wash over Nabeel’s face.

However, Zakariah glances up at Nabeel and shoots him a quick wink as he continues. “Why don’t I just tell you then?”

My eyes light up. “Really! You’re the best, Zakariah.”

Coming to his knees, he puts his arm around my shoulders and leans close, acting as if he is about to tell me the world’s biggest secret. “You see, Zaid, your brother and I were having a discussion about which one of us would win in a wrestling match. We all know that I’m stronger, but he just won’t admit it.” He sighs and shakes his head as he looks back at Nabeel. “But you agree with me, don’t you, Zaid?”

I don’t hesitate to respond. “No way!”

He moves his head back in surprise. “Huh?”

“Sure you’re pretty strong, but my brother would beat you!”

Zakariah is slow to reply, taken aback by the statement. “C’mon, Zaid. You do realize that I’m older than him—”

“Age has nothing to do with it, Zakariah! My brother was the school’s wrestling champion. He wouldn’t lose to you.” I whip my head to look back at Nabeel. “Right, big brother?”

Nabeel is slightly smiling now.

With a chuckle, Zakariah rises back to his feet. “Alright, alright. Well, I best be off, Nabeel. We can finish our little discussion next time.”

Nabeel shakes his hand. “Give my greetings to your folks.”

“I will.” Zakariah grabs my shoulder and gives it a squeeze. “See you, Zaid—no, sorry: Dr. Zaid.”

Did he really just call me that? How did he know?

Hearing Zakariah’s footsteps grow faint, I turn back to Nabeel. He opens the fridge door and rummages through it.

“You told him?” I ask.

Nabeel doesn’t look my way. “I tell everyone.”

I watch him pull out a pound of chicken meat rolled up in brown paper as he turns back to me.

“Aisha is visiting her parents tonight and Abbi and Ummi are having dinner with friends. So looks like it’ll just be you and me.” Nabeel shoots me a wink. “I’m going to make some shwarma for dinner. Just the way you like it: tomatoes, lettuce, onions, lots of chicken, and even more spices.” He starts setting the ingredients on the countertop. “I went by Sohail’s shop today. The mangoes he was selling were ripe, so I picked some up. We can have them for dessert. That is if we have room.”

He looks back at me with a smile, but it fades when he sees my expression.

“What’s wrong, Zaid?”

I glance at the ground before replying, “I don’t think I want to be a doctor anymore.”

“Why not?”

“…I don’t think I can.”

He takes a few steps towards me before crouching down to come to my eye level, urging me to continue.

“Ms. Farooq said I’m not smart enough.”

“She did?”

“I got the lowest score in the class on the last math test. She said I’m not cut out for it.”

“I didn’t realize Ms. Farooq could tell the future.”

I don’t respond.

“Did you tell Abbi or Ummi?”

I shake my head.

He takes a deep breath and glances down at my feet. His eyes look like he’s weighing something, wondering if he should say it or not. When he does speak, his voice is different. It’s no longer speaking to me as his younger brother but as his friend. “You know, Zaid, Zakariah was joking about what we were talking about.”

“Really?”

He nods before his gaze focuses back on me. “Not even a few weeks ago, my soldiers and I were in a bit of a… well, situation.”

“What happened?”

“We were in Homs. The people we were fighting—the rebels—had heavy control of some neighborhoods. We were trying to take them back. It was…”

A silence ensues as he searches for the word.

“Difficult.” Nabeel pauses. “Some soldiers were pinned. The army tried an airstrike to break the rebel lines. It was a heavy bombardment that leveled entire streets. The cost was high. But we couldn’t break their lines.”

I don’t interrupt him.

“Our intelligence said it was a lost cause. We were ordered to abandon the soldiers. They said we would lose more men than we would save. But even the army’s ‘intelligence’ doesn’t know everything.” He looks away. “Zakariah and I disobeyed our commanding officer. As did our men. Those soldiers that were pinned weren’t just men. They were my friends… my brothers. And I would never abandon them, even if it led to…”

For a moment, his eyes again display that same gleam, but it disappears as quickly as it came.

His gaze again meets mine. It’s firmer this time, stronger. “It doesn’t matter what people say, Zaid. It doesn’t matter what the facts say. All that matters is what you say. And, maybe more importantly, what you do.”

I hang on his words, unable to say anything.

“Why do you want to be a doctor, Zaid?”

“I’ve always wanted to.”

“But why?”

“Because… I don’t want to see people suffer. I… I want to be the one to help others. I want to save lives, make a difference and put others before myself. I want to make this world a better place. Just like the Imam always talks about.”

Nabeel smiles. “Never forget that. And never go back on your word. No matter what happens. Please never forget one thing, Zaid: I love you. No matter the circumstance—no matter if I’m so far from you that you may never see me again, know that I’m with you.” He presses his finger against my heart. “I believe in you, Zaid.”

About the Author

Ammar Habib is a bestselling and award-winning author who was born in Lake Jackson, Texas in 1993. Ammar enjoys crafting stories that are not only entertaining but will also stay with the reader for a long time. Ammar presently resides in his hometown with his family, all of whom are his biggest fans. He draws his inspiration from his family, imagination, and the world around him.

Website│Blog│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram

Blitz Giveaway

In conjunction with the release of The Heart of Aleppo, the author is running a giveaway from July 26th to August 3rd. The prize is a signed copy of his national award-winning novel, Memories of My Future. Memories of My Future is an historical/inspirational novel that was published in 2016. It received several accolades after its release, including the Independent Press Award in May 2017.

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