Love and Lists by Tara Sivec Available TODAY! {& Giveaway}

Love and Lists

{Chocoholics}

by Tara Sivec

Now Available

{at}

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Love and Lists is the first book in the Chocolate Lovers spinoff ­ Chocoholics: The foul­mouthed offspring tell their stories.

Twenty-­five-­year-­old Gavin Ellis has always had the love and support of his family ever since he was a little boy and couldn't stop talking about his penis. He's also always had their unsolicited advice and uncanny knack of embarrassing him at all costs. Now that he's an adult and trying to convince the love of his life to love him back, things haven't changed very much from when he was younger.

When Gavin's best friend Tyler suggests he make a to­do list of items that will ensure he wins the girl, Gavin is one­hundred­percent on board: after a few six packs.

After puking in the shrubs, a bad experience with Viagra, a Sex­Ed course gone wrong, and a slew of other mishaps courtesy of his family and friends, Gavin is pretty sure this list will be the death of him.

Sometimes, trying to make someone love you with a list isn't always the best idea. Especially when "Show her your penis" is the first "to­do" item... 

As a Tara Sivec fan, I was thrilled at the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Love and Lists. Tara has an amazing writing talent and this book was certainly an example just that and more. Although this book is a spinoff of her popular Chocolate Lovers series, it was certainly a read that I couldn’t put down. If you are a fan of the Chocolate Lovers series, I have a feeling that you will absolutely enjoy this book. Tara has me literally laughing out loud from the first page up until the very end. This quick read is fun and definitely worth picking up! Make sure to stop back on October 4th to catch ace and friends on our stop of Love and Lists Blog Tour!

About The Author

Tara Sivec is a wife, mom, chauffeur, cheerleading coach, soccer coach, babysitter, short­order cook, genius and albino squirrel hunter. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two kids. In her spare time she likes read, write and cover things in chocolate. Most of her material comes from real life experiences with family and friends. Lucky for them, the names have been changed to protect the innocent (aka, drunk).

Tara also writes under the pen name T.E. Sivec where she can be serious, suspenseful and not at all funny. 

Connect with Tara

Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter

Giveaway

TE is providing a prize pack, which include swag that pertains to the book, as well as signed paperback copy of the book.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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A Beautiful Lie by T.E. Sivec Available TODAY {& Giveaway}

A Beautiful Lie

{Playing with Fire #1}

by T.E. Sivec

Now Available

{at}

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

He saw her first, but his friend made the move.

She settled for the safer choice, but her heart knew the truth.

They love, they crave, they lie.

Garrett McCarthy, Annabelle Parker, and Milo Roberts were as close as friends could get. They shared in each other's joy during graduations, promotions, and engagements. They consoled one another through heartache and loss.

When one of the friend's life is tragically cut short, it's up to the two left behind to pick up the pieces and find out the truth - no matter the cost. As they slowly start to uncover the nature of his deception, and the very powerful people behind it, they begin to question everyone and everything, even themselves.

Everyone has secrets - some do it for love while others do it for power. Those secrets can change perceptions, alter reality and sometimes destroy lives.

What do you do when you find out your whole life has been a lie?

As a Tara Sivec fan, I was thrilled at the opportunity to read an advanced copy of A Beautiful Lie. Tara has an amazing writing talent and this book was certainly an example just that and more. Although this book was completely different from her popular Chocolate Lovers series, it was certainly a read that I couldn’t put down. If you are a fan of romantic suspense books, I have a feeling that you will absolutely enjoy this book. Make sure to stop back on January 11th to catch ace and friends on our stop of A Beautiful Lie Blog Tour!

Here's A Bonus Snippet from A Beautiful Lie

"If you were mine, I would never be able to walk away from you.  If you were mine, I’d worship every inch of your body with my hands, lips, and tongue.  If you were mine, I wouldn't be able to stand in the same room as you without running my hands over your skin and tasting your lips.  If you were mine..."

About The Author

T.E. Sivec is the pen name for Tara Sivec.  Under T.E. Sivec, she delves into a more serious genre that is her absolute favorite to read - romantic suspense.  She loves reading a book and feeling her heart speed up with anticipation and wanted to be able to give that feeling to her fans.

T.E. lives in Ohio with her husband and two children, living the dream of being a full-time writer.

Connect with Tara

Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter

Giveaway

TE is providing a prize pack, which include swag that pertains to the book, as well as signed paperback copy of the book. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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Book Review: Edge of Dawn by Lara Adrian

Summary:

Twenty years after the terror of First Dawn—when mankind learned that vampires lived secretly among them—the threat of violence reigns as the two species struggle to coexist. The only group preserving the fragile harmony is the Order, an elite cadre of Breed warriors dedicated to protecting humans and vampires alike. And in this precarious world of torn loyalties and shattered trust, Mira, a fiery squad captain, finds that every fight bears an intensely personal cost. 

Raised among the Order, Mira has always believed in the warrior’s code of swift—and even lethal—justice. But the one thing she desires more than the Order’s hard-won acceptance is Kellan Archer, a sexy but troubled Breed fighter. In love with him since childhood, Mira once broke through his tough exterior during an unexpected night of rapture, but the next day he mysteriously disappeared, never to return.

Kellan didn’t think he would ever see Mira again—or have to confront the truth of why he left. After abandoning the Order years ago, he now leads a band of human rebels intent on carrying out their own vigilante rule of law. Yet a high-profile kidnapping assignment brings him face-to-face with the past he sought to avoid, and the striking woman he has tried desperately to forget. And as tensions mount and the risk of bloodshed grows, Kellan and Mira must take sides—between the competing missions that dominate their lives, and the electrifying passion that claims their hearts.

Series: Midnight Breed #11
Release Date: February 26, 2013
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell (Delacorte Press)
Source: Netgalley

Review:

As a huge fan of the Midnight Breed series, I was thrilled to see there was a new release featuring Mira.  Edge of Dawn surprising begins 20 years after the Book #10 in the Midnight Breed series. Admittedly, I was a bit confused in the beginning, because the last time I read about Mira (one of the book's main characters) she was just a child. Fast forward 20 years and she is now an adult, a warrior among the ranks of the Order.

The author did an amazing job of describing and explaining the fast forwarding of time in this book. The feeling between the main characters in not only believable, but heart-wrenching at moments throughout the book. 

The storyline picked up after about 50 pages and from there on out, I couldn't put it down! Edge of Dawn was a well-written love story that included some new and interesting characters as well as many of my old favorites. Overall, I continue to LOVE this series and CANNOT wait for the Midnight Breed #12! Who will Lara Adrian feature next??? Eagerly awaiting...

For more about the author Lara Adrian and the Midnight Breed Series, please visit: www.laraadrian.com.

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Introducing American Girl's Newest Historical Doll *Caroline Abbott* {Review & Giveaway}

The girls continue to be crazy obsessed over their stunning American Girl dolls. You can imagine their excitement whey they heard there was going to be an addition to the American Girl historical doll family.  This week, American Girl introduced and welcomed Caroline Abbott into stores. 

Next week, my now kindergartner {e} will be celebrating her 5th birthday and what a perfect time to surprise her with the beautiful Caroline Abbott. Thanks to my WONDERFUL friends at American Girl... I can't wait to see the excitement on her face when she opens up this adorable NEW doll.

About American Girl 

If you haven't heard of American Girl, I would be SUPER surprised... but in case you don't know much about this amazing company, let me tell you a little about them.

American Girl is "Helping girls become their very best!" At American Girl, they celebrate girls and all that they can be. That's why they develop products and experiences that help girls grow up in a wholesome way, while encouraging them to enjoy girlhood through fun and enchanting play. {These are a few reasons why I LOVE American Girl.}

American Girl offers a wide variety of different products that are suitable for just about everyone. The American Girl character feature historical characters that highlight important past dates of America's past. My American Girl™ dolls are dolls that are created especially for every girl. Bitty Baby^® are adorable baby dolls that promote nurturing play among girls and are perfect for ages 3 and up. In addition to dolls, American Girl also offers American Girl magazine and Books that are written to help girls every step of the way. 

ace and friends thoughts

I love the introduction of the historical dolls as we love to learn about each new time period the doll represents, in this case, we are eager to learn more about the War of 1812. 

This September—200 years after America secured its standing as a truly independent nation—American Girl’s newest historical character, Caroline Abbott, shows girls today how to stay steady and believe in themselves during difficult times. Caroline, an independent and adventurous nine-year-old girl whose story is set near Lake Ontario during the War of 1812, learns to face her most challenging moments using her heart as her compass. Going above and beyond to help those around her, Caroline gives of herself without expecting anything in return—becoming the kind of real everyday hero that any girl can be.

Living with her family in Sackets Harbor, New York, Caroline loves sailing with her shipbuilder father, and she even dreams of captaining her own ship one day. But after British sailors capture her father and cousin, Caroline does her best to keep the promise she makes to her father to stay steady and ride storms through to better weather. In the end, Caroline finds—and proves—her own steadiness and strength as she navigates the challenges of wartime.

“Our newest historical character, Caroline, is a brave, independent girl who teaches girls today that they can navigate life’s challenges by staying strong, making good decisions, and taking action,” says Jean McKenzie, executive vice president of American Girl. “We know our fans will be inspired by the stories of Caroline, who shows girls that they can set their own course to help make changes for the greater good.”

The Caroline doll is 18” tall with light aquamarine eyes and long blond hair. She arrives wearing an empire-waist dress trimmed with ruffles and a woven floral sash, lacy pantalettes, ribbed-knit stockings, pink shoes, with a Meet Caroline paperback book written by Kathleen Ernst. Her accessories include a faux-straw bonnet adorned with fabric flowers, a drawstring purse, and a little top that really spins.

As with other American Girl dolls, Caroline Abbott does not disappoint. Her body is made of a soft cloth and the head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. These dolls are extremely well made and will give the little girl in your life many years of enjoyment. You can pose each doll, including Caroline Abbott in many different ways, whether she standing, sitting or even sailing. In addition to American Girl dolls being extra cute, I truly love that they encourage reading and inspire girls to believe in themselves... even in the most difficult of times.

Finally, I cannot wait to see {e}'s reaction at her birthday celebration. It will definitely be a dream come true! After her party, I will certainly post some birthday pictures!

Also make sure to check back to read my upcoming review of some amazing American Girl Innerstar University Books titles just perfect for Back To School!

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Buy It

American Girl's newest historical doll, Caroline Abbott
along with many other American Girl products are available NOW

and can be purchased HERE.

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Win It

Thanks to American Girl, one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win a
Caroline Boxed Set with Game (MSRP $39.95)

This keepsake boxed set features all six of Caroline’s beautifully illustrated books, filled with her inspiring stories. The box opens up to reveal a fun-filled board game where girls collect cards and earn points. The board game and playing pieces tuck into a storage pouch that folds up with an elegant ribbon closure.

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2011 Holiday Gift Guide: American Girl Dolls {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

For as long as I can remember {a} has had a HUGE obsession with American Girl dolls. Years ago, when we lived near Chicago, we would go into the store and spend a lot of time looking at all the beautiful dolls and their accessories. She would always get so giddy to look around! This year, we asked her what she wanted for Christmas... and once again, she mentioned, she would LOVE to have an American Girl Doll of her very own. Since little {e} was nearby, she too, chimed in... me too, me too. Thanks to my WONDERFUL friends at American Girl... I can't wait to see the surprise on their faces when they open something super special this Christmas, their very own, Marie-Grace and Cécile dolls.

About American Girl 

If you haven't heard of American Girl, I would be SUPER surprised... but in case you don't know much about this amazing company, let me tell you a little about them.

American Girl is "Helping girls become their very best!" At American Girl, they celebrate girls and all that they can be. That's why they develop products and experiences that help girls grow up in a wholesome way, while encouraging them to enjoy girlhood through fun and enchanting play. {These are a few reasons why I LOVE American Girl.}

American Girl offers a wide variety of different products that are suitable for just about everyone. The American Girl character feature historical characters that highlight important past dates of America's past. My American Girl™ dolls are dolls that are created especially for every girl. Bitty Baby^® are adorable baby dolls that promote nurturing play among girls and are perfect for ages 3 and up. In addition to dolls, American Girl also offers American Girl magazine and Books that are written to help girls every step of the way. 

ace and friends thoughts

I was thrilled that I was fortunate enough to review not only one, but two of American Girls' newest additions, Marie-Grace and Cécile. These two dolls follow an unforgettable journey where they must overcome times of trouble in their hometown of New Orleans using courage, compassion, and friendship. American Girl has created a story where these two girls cross paths and each of their stories compliment each other. The story takes place in 1853 where there was a definitive line between cultures as well as classes. Their story takes place throughout a six book series and alternate between each character, making each book quite unique. I have always been a HUGE fan of American Girl books and this series doesn't disappoint!

Each doll is absolutely stunning. Cécile is dressed in an authentic 1850's teal satin dress with soft black velvet accents and little rosettes. Complimenting her teal dress are white pantalettes, knee-length stocking and black boots. Her beautiful dark brown hair has super cute ringlets and is tied back with a gorgeous ribbon. 

Marie-Grace is also dressed in time-period appropriate clothing. She has a cute pink/tangerine plaid taffeta dress along with white pantalettes, knee-length stockings, and two-tone boots. Her long brown hair has curly-Q's on both sides of her face that are adorned with pink ribbons as well as a perfect braid across the back.

Included with each doll is the first book in their series which introduces each character to it's owner. These dolls are really and truly amazing. Their bodies are made of a soft cloth and the head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. These dolls are extremely well made and will give the little girl in your life many years of enjoyment. You can pose each doll in many different ways and I can't say how much I love that these dolls encourage reading and teaching about important historical times.

Finally, I cannot wait to see the {a} and {e}'s faces on Christmas morning. They are going to be over the moon excited. I will definitely post their reactions shortly after the holidays! Now... how many days until Christmas???? {le sigh.}

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Buy It

Cécile and Marie-Grace along with many other American Girl products
can be purchased HERE.

FREE SHIPPING: Now through November 2nd, American Girl is offering FREE SHIPPING with the following code: EMFREE1122

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Win It

Thanks to American Girl, one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win
 a Cécile and Marie-Grace 6 Book Boxed Set! (MSRP $39.95)

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Summer w/ The Kids Guide: Sockology - Book {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

Ever wonder what to do with that stray sock laying around or one that might have a hole in them? Brenna Maloney has written a savvy book, entitled sockology, that gives you many ideas on what exactly to do with them. This new release from Stash Books has dozens of great projects to make with kids this summer as well as all year long!

About the author

Brenna Maloney learned at a young age to look at ordinary things in extraordinary ways. She started by making sock bunnies as baby gifts. After her “4 millionth” rabbit, she realized there were lots of other critters to create. Brenna and her family live in Washington, D.C.

About sockology

• 16 new fun-to-make sock creatures, from cute and cuddly to weird and wild!
• Transform any sock - new socks, stray socks or even socks with holes in them - into an adorable critter
• Projects can be sewn by hand or machine

Brenna is back with a new posse of cute creatures! Take your socks a step further with slightly more complex construction and endless inspiration. From a lovable bear to some very fluffy sheep to a quirky alien, these 16 projects will surely keep you entertained for hours. Detailed hand-drawn templates are included to guide you along the way. 

ace and friends thoughts

I never knew you could make so many different types of very whimsical stuffed toys from socks! In this charming and fun craft book, the author's creatively designs such things as creatures that fly to things that don't to things that won't.  You will have to read the book to fully understand the collections.

The step-by-step directions are easy to follow and the photographs are an added bonus. These pictures will definitely help me along the way. There are more patterns to follow in this book as compared to her previous title, but Brenna's hand-drawn patterns are very clear and not complicated at all. I also enjoyed the author's writing style, it is quirky and entertaining.

This is a fun rainy summer day (or any other season for that matter) reading for families, and a great gift for your crafty pals who are looking for something unique and different. The kids can't wait to create their one sock wonders into works of sock-art.

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Buy It 

sockology by Brenna Maloney can be purchased HERE. ($17.95)

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Win It 

One LUCKY *ace and friends* reader will win

a copy of sockology by Brenna Maloney of their very own.

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