AND THE WINNER IS: Runnig the Books by Avi Steinberg

Rob K -- molokaisurfer 
Be Sure to Visit Rob's blog  BOOKS ARE LIKE CANDY CORN

Sheryl -- sheryljeffries
An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW Euphemania by Ralph Keyes

Description

How did die become kick the bucket, underwear become unmentionables, and having an affair become hiking the Appalachian trail? Originally used to avoid blasphemy, honor taboos, and make nice, euphemisms have become embedded in the fabric of our language. EUPHEMANIA traces the origins of euphemisms from a tool of the church to a form of gentility to today's instrument of commercial, political, and postmodern doublespeak.

As much social commentary as a book for word lovers, EUPHEMANIA is a lively and thought-provoking look at the power of words and our power over them.

About the Author

Ralph Keyes is the author of 15 books, including The Courage to Write and I Love It When You Talk Retro. He has written for Esquire, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, GQ, Newsweek, and Harper's. Keyes lives in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where he writes, lectures, and is a Trustee of the Antioch Writers' Workshop.

 Details

• Hardcover: 288 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (December 14, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0316056561
• ISBN-13: 978-0316056564

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

If you are a word freak like me, you are going to love this book.  Euphemania explains where we get common turns of phrase like "pushing up daisies" and other obscure references.  The book is very entertaining and gives insight to historical references. I really enjoyed reading this one and it would make the perfect gift for that closet wordy in your life. 




WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.15.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.16.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me
+1 Follow my other blog FOREVER YOUNG (adult)

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+1 Visit Ralph Keyes.com and tell me an interesting fact

+1 Follow his blog by RSS HERE

+1 Like Euphemania on Facebook HERE

+1 Fan on Goodreads HERE

And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

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Book Trailer Tuesday: Rescue by Anita Shreve

I have already read this one and loved it! Just wonderful!

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Duchess of Sin by Laurel McKee

Description

Blonde and beautiful Lady Anna Blacknall is in the mood for mischief. Entering Dublin's most notorious den of vice, she finds herself in the arms of a mysterious, emerald-eyed Irishman. And although he is masked, his tender kiss is hauntingly familiar.

Conlan McTeer, Duke of Adair, has come to Dublin to fight for a free Ireland. But he's suddenly reunited with the young Englishwoman who had once claimed his heart, and his passion turns from politics to pleasure. When their sizzling encounter brings danger to Anna's door, she must decide where her loyalties lie-and quickly. For someone will do whatever it takes to destroy Conlan . . . and anyone he dares to love.

About the Author

LAUREL McKEE lives in Oklahoma with a menagerie of two cats, a Pug, and a bossy miniature poodle. She loves dance classes, collecting cheesy travel souvenirs, and watching the Food Network-even though she doesn't cook. Writing as Amanda McCabe, her books have been nominated for many awards, including the RITA Award, the Romantic Times BOOKReviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the Booksellers Best, the National Readers Choice Award, and the Holt Medallion. Please visit her website at www.LaurelMcKee.net.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Forever; Original edition (November 30, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446544760
• ISBN-13: 978-0446544764

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

Although this is the second book in a trilogy, I really think it can stand alone.  I had no problem getting into the story and was enchanted right from the start.  I must admit that when someone is kissed by another person who is wearing a mask, I know where this story is going.  Seriously, this can only work in a historical romance.  So when Anna is kissed by Conlan, you can only know that there is going to a lot of hotness to follow.  The plot works on a lot of levels with a bit of mystery and thrills built in.  This one will definitely keep you warm on a cold winter night.  




WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.15.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.16.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 5 books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me
+1 Follow my other blog FOREVER YOUNG (adult)

+1 Be my friend on GoodReads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Facebook Page HERE 

+1 Fan Laurel McKee on Goodreads HERE
+1 Visit the author's website HERE and leave me a note with an interesting fact
+1 Like Laurel McKee on Facebook HERE
+1 Follow @AmandaLaurel1 on Twitter

And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

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New Weekly Giveaway @ Linda Weaver Clarke's blog!

Two Interviews and book giveaways each week for the month of December:

1. Interview with Regency Romance Author Jaimey Grant

Book Give-Away November 29 – December 6: for those interested in Deception, leave a comment about this interview with your e-mail. USA & Canada.

Deception is the love story of Lord Levi, Earl of Greville and Miss Aurora Glendenning. He is a gambler with a title and many properties who decides to quit gambling and find a rich bride.

Post a comment about this interview at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com.

2. Interview with Author Jeane Slone

Book Give-Away December 2 - 9: for those interested in She Flew Bombers, leave a comment about this interview with your e-mail. International.

She Built Ships During WWII will be out in January. It is about a woman welder in the Richmond Shipyards. This historical fiction weaves a Tuskegee Airman, a black sailor hurt in the Port Chicago explosion, an airplane riveter, and a Japanese American mother interned in a horse stable and the first day care center in Richmond, California.

Post a comment about this interview at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com.

Linda Weaver Clarke: Interview with Regency Romance Author Jaimey Grant

AND THE WINNER IS: Gratitude Giveaway

 Andrea B --brigneti


An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

I had over 150 unique entries and over 400 extra entries -- WOW!!!  

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Tempted by Fate by Kate Perry

Description

Willow Tarata is a Guardian who trusts no one. She hunts those who prey on the vulnerable. And she's driven by a vengeful goal-find the man who murdered her mother. Yet suddenly Willow's quarry now has her on the run . . . straight into the sights of San Francisco's most dangerous detective.

Three bizarre murders have Inspector Rick Ramirez baffled-and determined to uncover the truth. But to catch the real killer, he needs the help of his prime suspect, Willow Tarata, even though this fierce and sexy blonde is challenging his professional cool. And now, unless they believe in each other and trust their deepest instincts, a relentless evil will end both Willow's and Rick's life-and claim this Guardian's extraordinary powers forever . . . (2010)

About the Author

As a little girl, Kate dreamt of many things. Like becoming a ninja. Dressing up in black and carrying a big sword? Seemed like a no brainer.

However, Fate had other plans for her, and she studied Kung Fu San Soo instead. A Kung Fu Master, Kate now has more weapons than she ever imagined-including several swords.

She lives in San Francisco. Voted by her friends as the woman they'd most want to stroll with down a dark alley, Kate's as likely to be spotted at the opera as she is doing tai chi in Golden Gate Park. Usually wearing black-in both cases.

For more info on Kate, check out http://www.kateperry.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Forever; Original edition (November 30, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446564621
• ISBN-13: 978-0446564625

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I have been waiting for a book like this!  It has that urban fantasy/paranormal feel mixed with suspense and romance.  This one is really a page turner.  I know that is a giant cliche, but I stayed up late just to finish this one and even after taking a muscle relaxant for my back.  I just couldn't go to sleep without finding out the ending.   Willow is such a kick ass character and if you are looking for someone like Jaz Parks (Jennifer Rardin), she will carry you between those books. 



WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.14.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.15.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 5 books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me
+1 Follow my other blog FOREVER YOUNG (adult)

+1 Be my friend on GoodReads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Facebook Page HERE 

+1 Visit KatePerry.com and leave me a note with an interesting fact
+1 Subscribe to her blog by RSS  or email   HERE
+1 Follow @KatePerry on Twitter
+1 Friend on MySpace HERE


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 +1 for each post on twitter, a social networking site, blog, sidebar, etc., just be sure to leave a link.

REVIEW: Promise Me by Richard Paul Evans

Description

"As you read my story, there is something I want you to understand. That in spite of all the pain—past, present and that still to come—I wouldn’t have done anything differently. Nor would I trade the time I had with him for anything—except for what, in the end, I traded it for." Beth Cardall has a secret. For eighteen years, she has had no choice but to keep it to herself, but on Christmas Eve 2008, all that is about to change. For Beth, 1989 was a year marked by tragedy. Her life was falling apart: her six-year-old daughter, Charlotte, was suffering from an unidentifiable illness; her marriage transformed from a seemingly happy and loving relationship to one full of betrayal and pain; her job at the dry cleaners was increasingly at risk; and she had lost any ability to trust, to hope, or to believe in herself. Then, on Christmas Day, as she rushed through a blizzard to the nearest 7-Eleven, Beth encountered Matthew, a strikingly handsome, mysterious stranger, who would single-handedly change the course of her life. Who is this man, and how does he seem to know so much about her? He pursues her relentlessly, and only after she’s fallen deeply in love with him does she learn his incredible secret, changing the world as she knows it, as well as her own destiny. From the New York Times bestselling author of the beloved classics The Christmas Box and The Christmas List comes a breathtaking story of the transcendent power of love.

About the Author

RICHARD PAUL EVANS is the #1 best-selling author of The Christmas Box. His fourteen novels have each appeared on the New York Times bestseller list; there are more than thirteen million copies of his books in print. His books have been translated into more than 22 languages and several have been international best sellers. He is the winner of the 1998 American Mothers Book Award, two first place Storytelling World Awards for his children’s books, and the 2005 Romantic Times Best Women Novel of the Year Award.  Evans received the Washington Times Humanitarian of the Century Award and the Volunteers of America National Empathy Award for his work helping abused children. Evans lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, with his wife, Keri, and their five children.

Details

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster (October 5, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439150036
• ISBN-13: 978-1439150030

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT




Richard Paul Evans always tugs at my heart strings.  Promise Me  is an easy to read story that will take your mind off of all of your own problems for a few hours.  First off, this is not a typical story from this author and you will need to believe in a bit of holiday magic for it to all make sense.  Beth, is at wit's end trying to deal with a relationship that is on the rocks, a sick child and work issues.  When Beth meets Matthew, he seems like the perfect answer to all of her problems.  There is more to this man than meets the eye. There are a few weird plot twists and I guess in the end, I still am not sure what Matthew is, you will just have to read it yourself to figure that one out. 

REVIEW: Dating Mr. December by Phillipa Ashley

Description

She doesn't need rescuing, she only needs a change of scenery...
After a disastrous discovery loses Emma Tremayne both her boyfriend and her high-profile PR job in London, she moves to the Lake District to recover her confidence and live a simpler life. She loves her new job with the tourist board, and she's settling into small town life just fine-until she ends up responsible for a fundraising effort that calls for twelve naked mountain rescuers...

About the Author

Phillipa Ashley studied English Language and Literature at Oxford before becoming a freelance copywriter and journalist. A frequent guest on BBC national, local and independent radio on all matters romantic, she lives with her husband and daughter in Staffordshire, UK.

Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (November 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402241429
• ISBN-13: 978-1402241420

MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!

There is such a desolate wasteland for a good Chick Lit book this time of the year, that the timing on this release couldn't have been better.  I didn't realize that this book was the inspiration for a Lifetime movie (The Twelve Men of Christmas) until I started to write this review.  I kept thinking that this story would make an excellent movie and some one beat me to it!  Now, I will have to go track down a copy.  It stars Kristin Chenoweth as EJ (Emma) and is set in NYC, but I think the main plot points are all there from the description I read on line.

Emma is out of sorts after her boyfriend betrays her and her boss fires her.  She moves out of London to the rural Lake District in England for a new position as a public relations consultant for the tourism board in the middle of nowhere.  The local area has a mountain rescue team that desperately needs a new base camp and Emma decides that the volunteers would make excellent calendar subjects for a fund raiser.  Will Tennent, a member of the rescue team is set against this idea, but finally caves in and goes along.  Of course, Will is gruff, unfriendly and set in his ways, but comes around to Emma in more ways than one. 

There is wonderful quick and smart dialog, some well placed action and it was a quick read for me.  If you like Sophie Kinsella, Jill Mansell, or Hester Brown, you will love this author as well.

AND THE WINNER IS: A Christmas Carol Pop Up Book

Krisitpye -- kristi1830

An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  They have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

AND THE WINNER IS: On Maggie's Watch by Ann Wertz Garvin

Julia -- JHolden955

An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  She has until Monday to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

AND THE WINNER IS: Snow Valley Heros by Robert McCarty

Cathy -- cjwallace43

An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  Cathy has until Monday  to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

Friday PhoDOGraphy

Wouldn't you like to find this under your tree?

AND THE WINNER IS: Let's Eat by Denise Burroughs

Kim -- bookbutterfly9



An email has been sent to the lucky person namd above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  They have until Monday to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

AND THE WINNER IS: Stronger Than Sin by Caridad Pinero

Kathy P.  littleone@
Sweet Valley Zephyr mdwartistry@
Andrea I andrea.infinger@
JoAnna beckerjo@
Clio cliciaa@

An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam). They have until Monday  to respond or a new winner will be chosen.  I have increased the time to respond since this is a holiday weekend.

Thanks to all who entered.



Didn't win? Order your copy from my Amazon link:

Amazon's Black Friday Deal: Kindle 2 For $89

Heads up!

This is for the last generation Kindle, but at an amazing price.


Amazon's Black Friday Deal: Kindle 2 For $89

Waiting on Wednesday: Green Eyed Demon by Jaye Wells

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Description

Things to do:

1. Rescue sister.
2. Murder grandmother.
3. Don't upset the voodoo priestess.

The clock is ticking for Sabina Kane. Her sister has been kidnapped by her grandmother, the Dark Races are on the brink of war, and a mysterious order is manipulating everyone behind the scenes.

Working on information provided by an unlikely ally, Sabina and her trusty sidekicks--a sexy mage named Adam Lazarus and Giguhl, a Mischief demon--head to New Orleans to begin the hunt for her sister. Once there, they must contend with belligerent werewolves, magic-wielding vampires and--perhaps most frightening of all--humans.

But as much as Sabina is focused on surviving the present, the past won't be ignored. Before she can save those she cares about most, she must save herself from the ghosts of her past.

About the Author

Raised in Texas, Jaye Wells grew up reading everything she could get her hands on. Her penchant for daydreaming was often noted by frustrated teachers. She embarked on a series of random career paths, including stints working for a motivational speaker and at an art museum. Jaye eventually realized that while she loved writing, she found facts boring. So, she left all that behind to indulge her overactive imagination and make stuff up for a living. Besides writing, she enjoys travel, art, history, and researching weird and arcane subjects. She lives in Texas with her saintly husband and devilish son. Find out more about Jaye Wells at www.jayewells.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Orbit (February 22, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031603777X
• ISBN-13: 978-0316037778

It seems I always have to wait forever to get the next installment for my favorite series.  I guess March isn't that far away now.

Book Trailer Tuesday: ROOM by Emma Donoghue

REVIEW: Pukka by Ted Kerasote

Description

Since the publication of the best-selling Merle’s Door, Ted Kerasote has received thousands of e-mails asking two questions: “Have you gotten another dog?” and “Are you writing a new book?” Pukka: The Pup After Merle answers both, in the most heartwarming way. Told in Pukka’s charming voice and accompanied by more than 200 photos, Pukka: The Pup After Merle tells the story of how Ted found Pukka, recounting the early days of their bonding as they explore Kelly and the wider world. Walks become hikes and hikes become climbs, their adventures culminating in a rugged wilderness journey that teaches both Pukka and Ted something new about the dog-human partnership. Filled with stunning images of the West, Pukka is a love story as well as Ted’s take on raising a puppy. It will do pictorially what Merle did with words—show how dogs thrive when treated as peers while illustrating the many ways that any dog opens the door to our hearts.

--This text refers to the Kindle Edition edition.

About the Author

TED KERASOTE is the author of many books, including the national bestseller Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog and Out There, which won the National Outdoor Book Award. His essays and photographs have appeared in Audubon, Geo, Outside, Science, the New York Times, and more than sixty other periodicals. This is Pukka's first book.

Details

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (October 27, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0547386087
• ISBN-13: 978-0547386089

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

This is a beautiful story told in pictures and suitable for any dog lover's coffee table. It is a book that you will want to display and read again. This book tells about the author's new dog after losing his beloved Merle.  It documents Pukka growth with lovely photos that any dog lover will appreciate.  This would make an excellent holiday gift for that special dog lover in your life.

REVIEW: Wither by Lauren DeStefano

Description

The first book in an exciting new series by first time author Lauren DeStefano. 

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.

About the Author

Lauren DeStefano earned her BA in English with a Concentration in Creative Writing from Albertus Magnus College in Connecticut in 2007. Wither is her first novel.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing; 1 edition (March 22, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1442409053
• ISBN-13: 978-1442409057

SOURCE: Around the World ARC Tours

 MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT


All I can say after reading this, is when will the next one be released?  I just couldn't put this one down once I started and even now, I am still thinking about the characters. In this dystopian tale, Rhine is sixteen and forced into marriage after being stolen from her home.  She learns that her husband is more or less a pawn in his father's mad scientist games in which he is experimenting on corpses to stop the insidious virus that plagues mankind.  The virus causes women to die at twenty and men at twenty five.


Without going into to much plot detail, Rhine tries to escape and with the help of her sister-wives, she gain the courage to make the final attempt.  This is truly a page turner and it will leave you with many different feelings.  I do hope in the end, Rhine finds her contentment.  I guess I will have to wait for the installment to find this out.

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Oogy by Larry Levin (audio book)

Description

In the bestselling tradition of Rescuing Sprite comes the story of a puppy brought back from the brink of death, and the family he adopted.

In 2002, Larry Levin and his twin sons, Dan and Noah, took their terminally ill cat to the Ardmore Animal Hospital outside Philadelphia to have the beloved pet put to sleep. What would begin as a terrible day suddenly got brighter as the ugliest dog they had ever seen--one who was missing an ear and had half his face covered in scar tissue--ran up to them and captured their hearts. The dog had been used as bait for fighting dogs when he was just a few months old. He had been thrown in a cage and left to die until the police rescued him and the staff at Ardmore Animal Hospital saved his life. The Levins, whose sons are themselves adopted, were unable to resist Oogy's charms, and decided to take him home.

Heartwarming and redemptive, OOGY is the story of the people who were determined to rescue this dog against all odds, and of the family who took him home, named him "Oogy" (an affectionate derivative of ugly), and made him one of their own.

About the Author

Larry Levin and his family live in a suburb of Philadelphia, PA. He is an attorney in solo practice. He and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for twenty-six years. Their sons, Noah and Dan, are eighteen. Oogy is eight.

Product Details

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (October 12, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607886618
• ISBN-13: 978-1607886617

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

Oogy is such a heartwarming tale. I have never heard of the breed, Dogos, before reading this book and the author did such a nice job of making this dog jump off the pages. The story begins with the adoption of twin boys, the death of a beloved cat and finding the love of Levin family's life in the form of an abused dog. I have read many stories about dog fighting but didn't really know much about the use of "bait dogs" since I would guess the majority of them don't survive. Oogy is a very special dog to have survived this traumatic experience and the Levins are a very special family to see through the ugly appearance of this wonderful animal.

Dogs can really become part of the family and you love all of your family no matter what they look like. Oogy's personality triumphs over any outward defects. This is truly a book of courage and love. I recommend it to any dog lover!

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS AUDIO BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.8.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.9.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 audio books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me
+1 Follow my other blog FOREVER YOUNG (adult)

+1 Be my friend on GoodReads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Facebook Page HERE 

+1 Like Oogy on Facebook HERE
+1 Fan Larry Levin on Goodreads HERE


And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

+1 Leave a comment!  I love comments! Just be sure to leave an email address so I can contact you.

 +1 for each post on twitter, a social networking site, blog, sidebar, etc., just be sure to leave a link.

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk by David Sedaris (audio book)

Description

Featuring David Sedaris's unique blend of hilarity and heart, this new collection of keen-eyed animal-themed tales is an utter delight. Though the characters may not be human, the situations in these stories bear an uncanny resemblance to the insanity of everyday life.

In "The Toad, the Turtle, and the Duck," three strangers commiserate about animal bureaucracy while waiting in a complaint line. In "Hello Kitty," a cynical feline struggles to sit through his prison-mandated AA meetings. In "The Squirrel and the Chipmunk," a pair of star-crossed lovers is separated by prejudiced family members.

With original illustrations by Ian Falconer, author of the bestselling Olivia series of children's books, these stories are David Sedaris at his most observant, poignant, and surprising.

About the Author

David Sedaris is a regular contributor to The New Yorker and Public Radio International's This American Life. He is the author of the books When You Are Engulfed in Flames, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Naked, and Barrel Fever.

Details

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (September 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1600244998
• ISBN-13: 978-1600244995

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT

I adore David Sedaris and this collection of stories only confirms why his writing always hits the mark for me.  This anthology of short fables will appeal to those with a twisted sense of humor.  Not everyone is going to like this one, but I fell in love with the different animals.  Sedaris gives voice to all sorts of creatures and imbibes them with human characteristics.  My favorite short was about the bunny and his gate guarding.  I listened to the audio version of this so, I don't have the titles easily at hand.  There is a wonderful moral there (spolier alert!) when his life is finally taken by wolves after brutally murdering anyone who passes his way for not agreeing with him.

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS AUDIO BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.7.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.8.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 audio books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me
+1 Follow my other blog FOREVER YOUNG (adult)

+1 Be my friend on GoodReads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Facebook Page HERE 

+1 Like David Sedaris on Facebook HERE
+1 Fan David Sedaris on Goodreads HERE


And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

+1 Leave a comment!  I love comments! Just be sure to leave an email address so I can contact you.

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AND THE WINNER IS: How Music Works by John Powell

Jennifer --  jryder416@
Megan  -- Megankyser@
Coffee and a Book Chick  -- coffeeandabookchick@

An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam). They have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Thanks to all who entered.



Didn't win? Order your copy from my Amazon link:

Video PhoDOGraphy! Schatze Hunting

Lots and lots of looking, but no finding. 
Now I just need to figure out how to put music in the background.

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Earth by Jon Stewart & The Daily Show (audio book)

Description

Where do we come from? Who created us? Why are we here? These questions have puzzled us since the dawn of time, but when it became apparent to Jon Stewart and the writers of The Daily Show that the world was about to end, they embarked on a massive mission to write a book that summed up the human race: What we looked like; what we accomplished; our achievements in society, government, religion, science and culture -- all in a lavishly produced audiobook of approximately 200 minutes.

After two weeks of hard work and nights in the recording studio, they had their audiobook. EARTH (The Book) is the definitive guide to our species. With their trademark wit, irreverence, and intelligence, Stewart and his team will posthumously answer all of life's most hard-hitting questions, completely unburdened by objectivity, journalistic integrity, or even accuracy.

About the Author

Jon Stewart was born in New York and lives with his wife and kids in New York City.

Product Details

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (October 8, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607886154
• ISBN-13: 978-1607886150

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

Jon Stewart is one of my favorite people.  I consistently watch The Daily Show and love the humor.  This is one time I can say the audio book is better than the paper version.  You feel like you are listening to the cast of the Daily Show speak to you personally.  I did cheat a bit and looked at the hard cover version while I was listening, but I think the members of the Daily Show would approve.  The audio just makes the book that much funnier.  There are lots of photo shopped pictures to go along with the truly funny quips on the pages.  If you enjoyed America, you are going to love this one.


WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS AUDIO BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.6.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.7.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 audio books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

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REVIEW: Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

 

 

Description

“I’ve left some clues for you.
If you want them, turn the page.
If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

About the Author

Rachel Cohn & David Levithan have written three books together. Their first, Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, was made into a movie starring Michael Cera and Kat Dennings, directed by Peter Sollett. Their second, Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List, was named a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age. For their third book, Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares, David wrote Dash’s chapters and Rachel wrote Lily’s. Although they did not pass the chapters back and forth in a red Moleskine notebook, they did email them to each other without planning anything out beforehand. That’s the way they work.

Rachel’s previous books include Gingerbread, Shrimp, Cupcake, You Know Where to Find Me, and Very LeFreak. David’s previous books include Boy Meets Boy, The Realm of Possibility, Are We There Yet?, Wide Awake, Love Is the Higher Law, and How They Met, and Other Stories.

For more information about Rachel and David, you can find them at RachelCohn.com and DavidLevithan.com, respectively. You may also catch them in the aisles at the Strand.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0375866590
• ISBN-13: 978-0375866593

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

**SPOILER ALERT**  Don't read the second paragraph!

If you are looking for the holiday romance book of the season, this is it! I haven't read a more perfectly put together romance like this in a long time.  The story mostly takes place at the Strand, the famous NYC bookstore.  Lily's brother pretty much tells her she is a loser and when her parents and grandfather take off over the winter break, she finds herself truly alone.  Her brother hits on the idea that she should leave a book of dares stashed on the shelf at the Strand.  Dash discovers the book and he starts to communicate with Lily through the journal.

After several madcap adventures and quips traded back and forth in the journal, Lily finally meets Dash face to face.  There are several difficult moments with lots of character growth.  This one will make you go "awwww" quite a few times and there is enough action to keep the plot moving.  There is some alluded to sex mentioned and an instance of alcohol, but overall not much to worry about.

Patti Smith: Just Kids: The Writers' Block | KQED Public Media for Northern CA

Patti Smith reads from Just Kids, her memoir about life with Robert Mapplethorpe.
Stop by KQED to listen:

Patti Smith: Just Kids: The Writers' Block | KQED Public Media for Northern CA

Suko's Notebook: Anasazi Intrigue, Mayan Intrigue, and a Giveaway

Double Book Review at Suko’s Notebook with Book Giveaway!

Suko’s Notebook has reviewed two mystery novels: Anasazi Intrigue and Mayan Intrigue at Suko’s Notebook http://suko95.blogspot.com/2010/11/anasazi-intrigue-mayan-intrigue-and.html. This International Giveaway will end December 2nd.

Anasazi Intrigue: Stolen artifacts, a devastating flood, a snoopy newspaper reporter, and mysterious events begin to unfold in this mystery adventure novel. When a devastating flood takes out several homes in a small town, they are shocked by the news of also a possible poison spill. Quickly Julia realizes the story and investigation are much bigger and more dangerous than she thought! Julia and her husband find themselves on the run trying to save their lives while finishing the story of a lifetime. She never realized that being a reporter could be so dangerous.

You Tube of Anasazi Intrigue: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEQ3cQC_p5M

Suko's Notebook: Anasazi Intrigue, Mayan Intrigue, and a Giveaway

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Room by Emma Donoghue (audio book)

Product Description

To five-year-old Jack, Room is the entire world. It is where he was born and grew up; it's where he lives with his Ma as they learn and read and eat and sleep and play. At night, his Ma shuts him safely in the wardrobe, where he is meant to be asleep when Old Nick visits.

Room is home to Jack, but to Ma, it is the prison where Old Nick has held her captive for seven years. Through determination, ingenuity, and fierce motherly love, Ma has created a life for Jack. But she knows it's not enough...not for her or for him. She devises a bold escape plan, one that relies on her young son's bravery and a lot of luck. What she does not realize is just how unprepared she is for the plan to actually work.

Told entirely in the language of the energetic, pragmatic five-year-old Jack, ROOM is a celebration of resilience and the limitless bond between parent and child, a brilliantly executed novel about what it means to journey from one world to another.

About the Author

Born in Dublin in 1969, Emma Donoghue is a writer of contemporary and historical fiction whose novels include the bestselling Slammerkin, The Sealed Letter, Landing, Life Mask, Hood, and Stirfry.Her story collections are The Woman Who Gave Birth to Rabbits, Kissing the Witch, and Touchy Subjects. She also writes literary history, and plays for stage and radio. She lives in London, Ontario, with her partner and their two small children. For more information, go to www.emmadonoghue.com.

Product Details

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (September 13, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607886278
• ISBN-13: 978-1607886273

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

I have been a fan of Emma Donoghue's since I read Slammerkin.  This story is just spectacular.  Told from the perspective of a five year old who is confined to one room and then learns that there is a whole, big world out there. The fact that Ma can entertain him and keep him active in an 11 x 11 room is just extraordinary.  The audio book just made the characters that much more intense.

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS AUDIO BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 12.5.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.6.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 audio books will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
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And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

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