Taking Something Tour: Review + Giveaway

Welcome to my stop on the tour for Taking Something by Elizabeth Lee! 

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Review

I just have to give major props to Elizabeth Lee for taking a character I so thoroughly loathed in Give Me Something and turning him into someone I cared about and rooted for. It's pretty impressive. Nick is still up to his conning ways and he doesn't exactly shine as a changed man in the beginning. I was nervous about the whole pop star angle, but she even managed to twist that plot line around. Everyone seems to be manipulating each other for one reason or another and maybe seeing someone else do worse than Nick made him more likable.

But of course, as he actually finds someone who sees through him and makes him vulnerable, I actually started to like him. I was totally caught up in this book trying to figure out how he was going to get himself out of his own messes and make it all okay. He makes a lot of decisions and does some things that are questionable, but I realized how much he'd wormed his way into my good graces when I started making excuses for his behavior. I wanted him to come out on the good side of things and I'm officially a fan of Nick's.

Gia was harder for me to understand. I love that she had her own storyline that we only get to see little by little, but I wanted to connect with her more. It was a bold move for Elizabeth to tell the whole story through Nick's perspective and it paid off in a lot of ways. But the girl in me wanted to know more about the girl in the story. Sadie was a treat though (I meant that sarcastically). I don't even know where to start with that hot mess of a girl.

With this departure from Elizabeth Lee's usual country setting and good country boys, I think she's branched out into a good place. She's been an automatic read for me since I read Shattered and I just continue to enjoy everything she writes. So if you haven't given her books a shot, just know that she's one of my most highly recommended new adult authors.

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About the Book

I know what you're thinking. “You were such a jerk, Nick!”  Believe me, I know I screwed up the best thing I had going in my life, but that was kind of my thing. I’d learned how to run cons before I could even form complete sentences, and I'd always been selfish.  But I changed.  Lila forgave me, my brother and I were getting along, and I was trying to make a name for myself in the music world.

At least that was what I was trying to do when I negotiated my way into the recording studio with pop superstar Sadie Sinclair. I thought it would be a piece of cake—charm my way into her heart and into her record label's good graces.

Just when I thought I had it all figured out, I got mixed up in a web of lies, manipulation, and deception. A web that had me questioning my motives and desires altogether.

Was the fame and fortune really worth the price? 

Add to Goodreads

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About the Author

When I'm not writing or playing the part of wife and mother, you can find me dancing back-up for Beyonce, singing back-up for Miranda, or sunning myself on the beach with a drink in hand.  Here's the thing about being born and raised in a small town—you have a very vivid imagination!  Now, I channel it all to create stories where the girl always ends up with the right guy, first kisses are magical, and a happy ending is just that!

Find Elizabeth Online: Facebook :: Twitter :: Website :: Goodreads

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Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tour Schedule

February 17

Movies, Shows & Books – Author Interview

In The Best Worlds – Review Only

The Phantom Paragrapher – Review Only

The Indie Express – Review Only

February 18

Read This~Hear That – Playlist

Blimey! I Fancy Reading – Review Only

Roxy’s Reviews – Review Only

Stormy Day Reading Books – Review Only

Pretty Lil Page Turner’s – Review Only

Paperbook Princess – Review Only

February 19

Comfort Books – Guest post

2 Bookaholics – Excerpt

Halos and Horns Book Blog – Review Only

Cocktails & Books – Review Only

In My Room Reading  – Review Only

Into the Hall of Books – Review Only

February 20

Reader Girls – Excerpt

Scandalous Book Blog – Character Interview

Mrs Leif’s Two Fangs About It – Excerpt

Rumpled Sheets Blog – Review Only

Ramblings From This Chick – Review Only

February 21

Living in a Bookworld – Excerpt

Lovin’ Los Libros – Review Only

Sleepless Nights Filled with Endless Books – Review Only

Smart & Savvy with Stephanie – Review Only

Deal Sharing Aunt – Review Only

February 22

Kassie’s Book Thoughts – Author Interview

Sofia Loves Books – Review Only

Biblio Belles – Review Only

Mean Girls Luv Books – Review Only

Not Everyone’s Mama – Review Only

February 23

Read-Love-Blog – Guest Post

My Favorite Things – Review Only

Book Freaks – Review Only

Books Unhinged Book Blog – Review Only

The Boyfriend Bookmarks – Review Only

February 24

Stuck in YA Books – Guest Post

Books I Think You Should Read – Review Only

Above Average Below Special – Review Only

Group Therapy Book Club – Review Only

February 25

Southern Belle Book Blog – Excerpt

StarAngel’s Reviews – Review Only

Lustful Literature – Review Only

True Story Book Blog – Character Interview

Romance Addict Book Blog – Dream cast

February 26

Fabulously Girly Book Blog – Review Only

Once Upon a Twilight – Review Only

Girl With Books – Review Only

Seeking Book Boyfriends – Review Only

Book Addict Mumma – Review Only

Fiddle Fadle – Guest Post

Cover Reveal: Taking Something by Elizabeth Lee

We are so excited to share the beautiful cover of Elizabeth Lee's Taking Something! This is the second book in her Give Me Something Series. You will want to grab this one when it's available February 18th!! As a special treat for her readers and in celebration of the cover reveal for Taking Something, Give Me Something is only $.99 for a limited time!

     

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About Taking Something

      I know what you're thinking. “You were such a jerk, Nick!” Believe me, I know I screwed up the best thing I had going in my life, but that was kind of my thing. I’d learned how to run cons before I could even form complete sentences, and I'd always been selfish. But I changed. Lila forgave me, my brother and I were getting along, and I was trying to make a name for myself in the music world.   At least that was what I was trying to do when I negotiated my way into the recording studio with pop superstar Sadie Sinclair. I thought it would be a piece of cake—charm my way into her heart and into her record label's good graces.   Just when I thought I had it all figured out, I got mixed up in a web of lies, manipulation, and deception. A web that had me questioning my motives and desires altogether.   Was the fame and fortune really worth the price?      

Buy Links: Amazon :: B&N :: Goodreads

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Excerpt

“Tell me again how you plan on pulling this off?” Lila asked as she sat down on the edge of my bed. I had called her first thing that morning to tell her that I was heading to Los Angeles to produce Sadie's album, and within the hour she was knocking on my front door to offer her insight and suggest what was and wasn't acceptable Hollywood attire. 

 “Same way I pull everything off,” I answered quickly. 

 “I don't think making her fall in love with you is going to work this time, Nick.” 

 “Seriously?” I smirked. 

“Now you're doubting my abilities with women?” 

 “Not women in general. Just this one.”

 “She's no different than the rest, Rae.”

 “Yes she is,” she disagreed. “How?”

 “Well, for starters, she's like the most famous person on the planet. You're not going to be able to make her fall for your charms, record the songs you want her to, and then just bolt when it's over. She'll run your name through the mud and people will listen. So it will have all been for nothing if you can never get another job.” 

 “What makes you think I'm going to bolt? We might actually fall in love.” 

 “Are you capable of that?” 

  Ouch. That hurt. 

 “I'm just saying that you might want to consider convincing her in a way that makes her not think she has a future with you. Nothing is worse than a scorned woman, Nick. Look at how Brynn took it. She told everyone that would listen how big of an asshole you were. It's a wonder you made it through graduation without being murdered.” 

 Brynn was a mistake. She had run a couple cons with me a few years ago when Lila went and fell in love with my brother. I should have known better than to sleep with her, but dammit she was good looking. Not to mention a hellcat in the sack. I had needs. Sue me. It wasn't my fault that she hadn’t understood our arrangement. Run cons and have sex. I never said anything about a relationship. 

 “I have other ways of making women bend to my will,” I said, trying to convince Lila. 

 “Do you?” She laughed, obviously not buying it. “Don't get me wrong, Nick. You’re a good guy, deep down, but you know as well as I do that every single scam we ever ran was based on one thing. She's gotta be different if you want to turn this chance into a career. You break her heart and you're as good as done in that world.” 

 “Celebrities date and break up all the time.” 

 “You're not a celebrity.” She shook her head. “I mean, you're kind of known, but...” 

 “Are you here to give me a pep talk or completely kick me in the nuts? Jesus,” I sighed. 

 “You know what I mean,” she smiled. “She's more well known. People will take her side. Believe me. I've read enough gossip magazines to know what happens to the guy who dumps America's Sweetheart. Have you seen Kevin Federline lately?” 

 “I don't even know who that is, Rae.” 

 Her eyes went wide and hands went up as if she'd proven her point. “Exactly.”

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About Elizabeth Lee

When I'm not writing or playing the part of wife and mother, you can find me dancing back-up for Beyonce, singing back-up for Miranda, or sunning myself on the beach with a drink in hand. Here's the thing about being born and raised in a small town—you have a very vivid imagination! Now, I channel it all to create stories where the girl always ends up with the right guy, first kisses are magical, and a happy ending is just that!       

Find Elizabeth Online: Facebook :: Twitter :: Website :: Author Goodreads 

Top Ten NA in 2013

This has been the year of NA and I freaking love it. I'm loving this blossoming field and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for it. There's a lot of NA out there to find - both self and traditionally published - and sometimes you have to wade through some bad stuff, but it's so worth it. Here are my top ten NA reads in 2013. I'd love to hear yours! I'm always looking for great recommendations! 

1. Sweet Thing by Renee Carlino

I'm so in love with this book. It's intense and beautiful. My review is here. Also, I've decided that Will is Jon Bellion. So listen, read, and enjoy the crazy happiness. 

2. A Little Too Far by Lisa Desrochers

This book is bold and shocking in the best way possible. I love that it does something different in NA and just pulls off all kinds of things it shouldn't be able to. My review is here. 

3. Finding It by Cora Carmack

Cora has just been killing it with the Losing It series and this was a great addition. I love Kelsey, I love Jackson, and I adore the fact that everything goes down as they're spontaneously traipsing through Europe. My review is here. 

4. Breaking the Reins by Juliana Haygert

This book is bold and it doesn't shy away from some dark moments. But somehow those moments just serve to make the rest of the book hopeful, emotional and amazing. My thoughts are here. 

5. Perfect Regret by A. Meredith Walters

I'm obsessed with A. Meredith Walters. Her books just have intense passion and the right kind of drama. Perfect Regret is another great one from her that just stands out from other NA novels. My full review is here. 

6. Give Me Something by Elizabeth Lee

This book kept me on my toes and just kept surprising me. Plus, she just writes the best country boys, ever. People give awards for best written country boys, right? My review is here. 

7. Rule by Jay Crownover

I got all kinds of things I wasn't expecting when I read this book. It is complex and complicated, and the characters are wonderfully written that the story just breathes beyond the page. And I'm a sucker for friends falling in love. My review is here.

8. Foreplay by Sophie Jordan

There were moments that I actually forgot to breathe while I was reading this book. It's so well written and a little bit heart-stopping. 

9. Rush Me by Allison Parr

I went in thinking - guilty pleasure - with the whole bookish girl falling for an NFL player thing. But it wound up being a bit unforgettable. I love the personality and the energy that springs from these pages. 

10. One Tiny Lie by K.A. Tucker

I adore this book and Livie's story. There's just something endearing about her and I totally relate to her. For me this book is the epitome of great NA.  

Cover Reveal: Give Me Something Deluxe Edition by Elizabeth Lee

We are extremely excited to show you all the redesigned cover for Elizabeth Lee's GIVE ME SOMETHING! You can grab this gorgeous redesign December 16th!

   

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  About Give Me Something  

 Here's the deal: I learned a long time ago that sometimes you have to use what you have to make things happen. What I happen to have is a pretty smile, long legs, and the ability to make men believe anything I say. Before you get on your high horse and start judging me, can you honestly say you've never batted your lashes at some guy for a free drink at the bar? That's what I thought. Keep that in mind as I tell you my story of how I took it one step further. My story is of lies, deceit, manipulation, and love. Yeah, love. Believe me, it fits. Especially when you factor in Nick and Tucker – one had my heart and the other one wanted it all for himself. Which one is which? Well, I can't tell you that. It would defeat the purpose of the story. If I'm going to fill you in about me, Lila Garrison, and my life as a con artist, you're going to need to know all the facts, including the ones about the two guys who made me want to give up the life of fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, fast cars, and easy money. Because sometimes one person can give you something that's more valuable than all of that. If you're still interested, stick around. Just remember, I'm pretty good at convincing people to do what I want, so if by the end of this whole thing you feel worked over, don't say I didn't warn you.    

  Buy Links: Amazon :: Barnes and Noble  

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  About Elizabeth Lee 

When I'm not writing or playing the part of wife and mother, you can find me dancing back-up for Beyonce, singing back-up for Miranda, or sunning myself on the beach with a drink in hand. Here's the thing about being born and raised in a small town—you have a very vivid imagination! Now, I channel it all to create stories where the girl always ends up with the right guy, first kisses are magical, and a happy ending is just that!   

  Find Elizabeth Online: Facebook :: Twitter :: Website :: Author Goodreads :: Novel Goodreads

Give Me Something - Elizabeth Lee

Synopsis: Here's the deal... I learned a long time ago that sometimes you have to use what you've got to make things happen. What I happen to have is a pretty smile, long legs and the ability to make men believe anything I say. Before you get on your high horse and start judging me, can you honestly say you've never batted your lashes at some guy for a free drink at the bar? That's what I thought. 
Keep that in mind as I tell you my story of how I took it one step further. My story of lies, deceit, manipulation and love. Yeah, love. Believe me, it fits. Especially, when you factor in Nick and Tucker – one had my heart and the other one wanted it all for himself. Which one? Well, I can't tell you that. It would defeat the purpose of the story. If I'm going to fill you in about me, Lila Garrison, and my life as a con artist you're going to need to know all the facts, including the ones about the two guys who made me want to give up the life of fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, fast cars and easy money. Because sometimes, one person can give you something that's more valuable than all of that.
If you're still interested, stick around. Just remember, I'm pretty good at convincing people to do what I want, so if by the end of this whole thing you feel worked over, don't say I didn't warn you.


I pretty much fell in love with Elizabeth Lee when I read Shattered, because the woman knows how to write a good country boy. I'm from the Midwest, and I've been a little homesick for it lately, so this book came at the perfect time. Even though this book isn't as country as Shattered, I still love it. This story felt like something different, too, because you don't really expect con artists in the friendly Midwest. Although, Lila definitely has a heart of gold. Then, of course, there's Tucker who is is so swoon-worthy. This book is the perfect blend of fun, hot country boys, bad choices, and high emotions.

Lila is good at convincing people to love her and you'd have to be heartless to not fall in love with her by the end of the book. She's a con artist, but I kind of forgot that every now and then, because for some reason her personality doesn't fit what I'd normally imagine when I think of con artists. She has too big of a heart, but then again she does have these moments where she's really great at cutting people out. Really, she's just a fun person. She has some issues, she makes some bad choices, and no matter how much inner turmoil she has, she always seems to be having a good time. I just want to be friends with her, please.

Now those boys. Goodness gracious. I don't even know what's happening, because this is a little backwards for me, but I hated Nick from the very beginning. I know he's supposed to be all like-able because he was there for Lila from the beginning, but good lord I don't remember the last time I wanted to smack a character so badly. He's just so misguided, and quite frankly, he's a douche silo. Now, Tucker, is the exact opposite. He's so freaking perfect I want to cry. He's got the country and the sensitivity, but he's also a little bit cocky and...you know, not too perfect in the way that makes him perfect. Pretty much the second I found out his family sold tractors, I was sold on him. Is that weird of me?

There's a lot of tension in this book and a lot of things I didn't see coming. You think you know how it's going to go and it totally surprises you. But as I kept watching Lila get in deeper, I just got more nervous for her. It's a book that you start and know you're going to sit there until you've reached the end because you just have to know everything is going to be okay. This is another awesome contribution to the New Adult field and I can't wait to read more from Elizabeth Lee.

*P.S. I interviewed Elizabeth Lee and you should probably check that out, even if it's just to see who she'd choose to play Lila, Tucker and Nick - because, hello hotness. You can find that here.

Blog Tour: Give Me Something by Elizabeth Lee :: Interview + Giveaway

I'm SO stoked to be a part of the Give Me Something tour and to have the fabulous Elizabeth lee on the blog today answering my questions! I loved Give Me Something (I'll have a review up next week) so you should definitely check it out. If you stick around through the interview, you can find out more about Elizabeth's second novel (her first novel, Shattered, is also worth checking out) and enter into a great giveaway. *Please note that Give Me Something is a new adult novel and does contain mature situations.*

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Interview with Elizabeth Lee

In the Best Worlds: How would you describe yourself in a sentence?

Elizabeth Lee: This question is my worst nightmare. :-) Haha! I'm so bad at describing myself. I'll say...I'm just a girl from the country with a big imagination!

ItBW: Your books fall into the new adult category What drew you to the genre? What is your favorite thing about new adult books?

EL: What's not to love about NA?! The NA category features characters who are just starting out in their adult lives. It's such a fun age to write because you get to create characters who are trying to figure out how to be "grown ups" -- new relationships, college, living on their own for the first time, new jobs, etc... I love the way New Adult books appeal to such a wide audience. Some readers are experiencing the same things as the characters, while others are reading to relive a time in their lives before work, marriage and babies took over. 

ItBW: You're from the Midwest, which is also the setting for your first book. Will you talk about how your background influences you and your writing? 

EL: I've always heard, "write what you know," and believe me...I know the Midwest. I know about cournfields, cow tipping, small town gossip and country boys. 

ItBW: Congrats on your second novel! What did you learn from publishing your first book? What has changed in releasing your second?

EL:  Releasing my first book was a pretty overwhelming experience. I had this story that I loved and I really wanted people to read it. So, I put in the time, did the research and figured out what worked for me. I was fortunate enough to chat with some great indie writers that offered up some wise words. One thing that I did differently this time around was reaching out to the wonderful world of book bloggers prior to the release of Give Me Something. It's such a wonderful community and I can't thank them enough for all of their support and kind words -- you included, Hannah!

ItBW: What can we expect from your newest book?

EL: Love, lies, manipulation, two super cute guys and one sassy leading lady! This book was so much fun to write and I hope everyone has fun reading it!

ItBW: What are you working on now? 

EL: I don't want to give anything away, but I've got a word document open on my computer right now that features one of the characters from Give Me Something. :-)

ItBW: Do you have any writing rituals or habits?

EL: Nothing too exciting. It's just me, my computer and whatever playlist I've devised to inspire. Oh! And, Vanilla Mt. Dews!

ItBW: If you could pick one song to represent Give Me Something what would it be?

EL: This may be a big surprise, but it's actually "You Give Me Something" by James Morrison. This song has been out for awhile, but every time I heard it I knew there was a great story in my head to go with it.

ItBW: If Give Me Something was turned into a movie, what actors do you think would best represent Lila, Nick and Tucker?

EL: Let's see... 

ItBW: Finish these sentences:

1. We could be best friends if... you speak sarcasm.

2. The best thing a guy could do to win my heart is... make me laugh.

3. You should read my book if.... you are looking for a book that's a little different from the rest, but still has the romance that you love!

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About Give Me Something: Here's the deal...I learned a long time ago that sometimes you have to use what you've got to make things happen. What I happen to have is a pretty smile, long legs and the ability to make men believe anything I say. Before you get on your high horse and start judging me, can you honestly say you've never batted your lashes at some guy for a free drink at the bar? That's what I thought. 
Keep that in mind as I tell you my story of how I took it one step further. My story of lies, deceit, manipulation and love. Yeah, love. Believe me, it fits. Especially, when you factor in Nick and Tucker - one had my heart and the other wanted it all for himself. Which one? Well, I can't tell you that. It would defeat the purpose of the story. If I'm going to fill you in about me, Lila Garrison, and my life as a con artist you're going to need to know all the facts, including the ones about the two guys who made me want to give up the life of fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, fast cars and easy money. Because sometimes, one person can give you something that's more valuable than all of that. 
If you're still interested, stick around. Just remember, I'm pretty good at convincing people to do what I want, so if by the end of this whole thing you feel worked over, don't say I didn't warn you. 

Book Links: Amazon :: B&N :: Smashwords :: Goodreads 

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About Elizabeth:

Born and raised in the middle of a Midwestern cornfield (not literally, that would be weird), I've spent my entire life imagining stories. Stories were the right guy always gets the right girl, first kisses are as magical as they are on the big screen and anything is completely possible if you believe. 

Although this journey began years ago, it recently took on a whole new life. After years of devouring hundreds of Romance, YA and New Adult novels, I had an epiphany...I should write a book. And I did it! My first YA/New Adult novel is out now!

If I'm not reading, writing, enjoying drinks with my amazing group of girlfriends or chasing around a sarcastically funny one-year old, I'm probably watching television shows that were created for teenagers, while my husband teases that I'm too old to watch them. 

Connect with Elizabeth: Facebook :: Blog :: Goodreads :: Twitter

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Giveaway

Up for grabs is a signed paperback copy of both Give Me Something and Shattered. The winner will be chosen and notified on Monday, March 25. Use the Rafflecopter form to enter. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check out the other stops on this tour!

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Give Me Something Cover Reveal

I'm SO excited to be participating in the cover reveal for Elizabeth Lee's new book Give Me Something.  I fell in love with her work when I read Shattered and I can't wait to see what she's written now. Give Me Something will be released on March 7, 2013! This amazing cover was designed by Regina at Mae I Design.

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About the book:

Here's the deal... I learned a long time ago that sometimes you have to use what you've got to make things happen. What I happen to have is a pretty smile, long legs and the ability to make men believe anything I say. Before you get on your high horse and start judging me, can you honestly say you've never batted your lashes at some guy for a free drink at the bar? That's what I thought. Keep that in mind as I tell you my story of how I took it one step further. My story of lies, deceit, manipulation and love. Yeah, love. Believe me, it fits. Especially, when you factor in Nick and Tucker – one had my heart and the other one wanted it all for himself. Which one? Well, I can't tell you that. It would defeat the purpose of the story. If I'm going to fill you in about me, Lila Garrison, and my life as a con artist you're going to need to know all the facts, including the ones about the two guys who made me want to give up the life of fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, fast cars and easy money. Because sometimes, one person can give you something that's more valuable than all of that. If you're still interested, stick around. Just remember, I'm pretty good at convincing people to do what I want, so if by the end of this whole thing you feel worked over, don't say I didn't warn you.

Bookmark on GOODREADS

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About Elizabeth:

Born and raised in the middle of a Midwestern cornfield (not literally, that would be weird), I’ve spent my entire life imagining stories. Stories where the right guy always gets the right girl, first kisses are as magical as they are on the big screen and anything is completely possible if you believe.

Although this journey began years ago, it recently took on a whole new life. After years of devouring hundreds of Romance, YA and New Adult novels, I had an epiphany... I should write a book. And I did it! My first YA/New Adult novel is out now!

If I’m not reading, writing, enjoying drinks with my amazing group of girlfriends or chasing around a sarcastically funny one-year old, I’m probably watching television shows that were created for teenagers, while my husband teases that I’m too old to watch them.

Connect with Elizabeth: Facebook :: Blog :: Goodreads ::Twitter