Coming Soon: Sweet Summertime Reads 2018

Hey friends! Can you believe it's already almost summer again?! If you're a regular at my blog, then you already know this is total Ginger season. I live for these months... those lazy days spent in the pool, endless nights on the patio, and every second in between reading irresistible summer reads.

This is my 7th year hosting #SweetSummertimeReads on my blog, a feature that I look forward to every year. It's a place for me to showcase my favorite books to read during the summer and incorporate all things summery. I hope you'll join me this year for all new content!

And what might that content be?! I'm meshing two of my most favorite things: Summer + Romance! I decided to dedicate this entire season to romance reads!! How fun is that?! Now, I know that might not be everyone's jam. But... romance comes in so many different flavors. I hope to deliver on all our various tastes. It's going to be great & I cannot wait!

In the meantime, let's get through this endless winter (in some parts of our country) together and head right into summertime bliss. So tell me, what are some of your all-time favorite romances? I'm going to offer a giveaway to get this party started! This contest is open to my international friends (just make sure Book Depository ships to you). All you have to do is leave a comment below, fill out the rafflecopter, and you're entered! Good luck... and happy *almost* summer!!!

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+ Giveaway open internationally (Book Depository only!)

+ No giveaway accounts allowed

+ Must leave a blog comment to be entered

+ Please be 18 years of age or older

Sweet Summertime Reads 2017 Wrap-Up + ONE LAST GIVEAWAY!

I can't believe that I am already typing up my very last Sweet Summertime Reads post for this year. My, how this time has flown by. Even though summer isn't quite over (according to the calendar anyway), my summer ends in just two weeks. I'll be back in the classroom, getting ready for a new school year to begin.

But before we have a send-off to summer, I wanted to re-cap this year's fabulous Sweet Summertime Reads posts. I also wanted to take a moment to thank those who participated this year; whether that be authors, fellow bloggers, or instagram challenge friends, you've each made this round so enjoyable for me. So THANK YOU. It's been another successful, fun, great year!

• In June we kicked off this round of Sweet Summertime Reads with a twitter chat (my first ever!) with YA authors Miranda Kenneally & Trish Doller. I had a lot of fun discussing their 2017 releases with you all and hope to host more fun twitter chats in the summers to come.

[You're Invited: Twitter Chat with Trish Doller & Miranda Kenneally]

• Next Trish Doller stopped by the blog & shared some of her writing inspirations for her new book IN A PERFECT WORLD. If you haven't picked up this YA contemporary masterpiece about discovering & conquering new cultures, then I definitely hope this post urges you to do so.

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Trish Doller]

• What's summer without some of my favorite Adult romance reading? I had to highlight my favorite writing duo Christina Lauren and what better way than celebrating their new release DATING YOU/HATING YOU. 

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Dating You/Hating You by Christina Lauren]

• For my next post, I was thrilled to have YA contemporary writer Sara Biren on the blog as she answered some of my questions about her debut novel THE LAST THING YOU SAID. Y'all, this is one of my favorite reads of 2017 and I cannot stop talking/thinking about it. I sincerely hope it's already on your radar, if not already in your reading pile.

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Sara Biren]

• The month of June wrapped up with an amazing look at the oh so talented Andi, creator behind Cards by Andrea S. I love the crafty cards she comes up with, especially these one of a kind summer themed cards. Even though this giveaway has ended, you should definitely check out her etsy shop and browse all her other amazing cards.

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Cards by Andrea S.]

• July kicked off with a special treat from YA author Miranda Kenneally as we celebrated the release of her final installment in her Hundred Oaks series: COMING UP FOR AIR. I have really enjoyed this series and feel that this last one is the perfect conclusion to such a fabulous group of books. 

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Miranda Kenneally]

• Next, we had another fun post from fellow Blogger and friend, Estelle. She shared with us how she was beating the heat in the city, along with a fun way to support her local indie you could enter to win a book of choice. Even though this giveaway has ended, there are still plenty of ways to discover your own ways to beat the heat this summer & support your local indies, too.

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Estelle & Beating the Heat in the City]

• I tend to read a lot of contemporary (okay so, maybe that's ALL I read), but I know not everyone does -- especially during the summer. So I loved having Sarah, blogger + friend, sharing some of her favorite Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Adventure books. I felt this post spoke to those who enjoy a wide variety in their summer reading piles and enjoyed adding some new additions to my own!

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Sarah's Summer Reading List]

• The last post for this summer, came from debut author Katy Upperman. Her first novel publishes TOMORROW & I could not be more excited to celebrate her & her writing as part of Sweet Summertime Reads. I hope you'll check out KISSING MAX HOLDEN as it hits bookshelves tomorrow (August 1st). In the meantime to get to know this author & what she's working on next.

[Sweet Summertime Reads with Katy Upperman]

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Thank you again, to all my readers here at GReads! for making this summer feature of mine such a huge success! It has become my favorite thing to blog about, and after its sixth year, I can definitely say I'll be back again next year for round seven!! But before we put a wrap on Sweet Summertime Reads 2017, I have one last giveaway for you... & this one is open to US + International readers (just make sure Book Depository ships to you).

THE SECRET HISTORY OF US by Jessi Kirby

I read this book not too long ago & immediately knew it would be a favorite of mine from YA author Jessi Kirby. She is such a talented author that I feel deserves more recognition. With each story she has written, she knows how to pull on my heart strings and completely engulf me in the story. Her latest does not disappoint. Since it publishes tomorrow (August 1st), I wanted to share one last Sweet Summertime Reads giveaway with my readers, and what better way than a book from one of MY favorite writers. I've been featuring Jessi's books in my Sweet Summertime Reads since the very beginning, so of course it's only fitting to close out this year with her latest.

About the book: Gorgeously written and emotionally charged, The Secret History of Us explores the difficult journey of a teenage girl who must piece her life together after losing her memory in a near-fatal accident.

When Olivia awakes in a hospital bed following a car accident that almost took her life, she can’t remember the details about how she got there. She figures the fog is just a symptom of being in a week-long coma, but as time goes on, she realizes she’s lost more than just the last several days of her life—she’s lost her memory of the last four years. Gone is any recollection of starting or graduating high school; the prom; or her steady boyfriend Matt. Trying to figure out who she is feels impossible when everyone keeps telling her who she was.

As Liv tries to block out what her family and friends say about who she used to be, the one person she hasn’t heard enough from is Walker, the guy who saved her the night her car was knocked off that bridge into the bay below. Walker is the hardened boy who’s been keeping his distance—and the only person Olivia inexplicably feels herself with. With her feelings growing for Walker, tensions rising with Matt, and secrets she can’t help but feel are being kept from her, Olivia must find her place in a life she doesn’t remember living. [goodreads]

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Katy Upperman + GIVEAWAY

It's hard to believe that my summer is winding down. How did it all go by so fast?! In just a few weeks I'll be back in the classroom, preparing for a new school year of teaching. But before that begins, I have one last Sweet Summertime Reads post...

Debut author Katy Upperman is stopping by the blog today to answer some interview questions, as well as to celebrate her novel KISSING MAX HOLDEN, which pubs next week (August 1, 2017)!

I had the honor of reading an ARC of this book way back in January and I knew immediately it was a story I would feature on my blog this summer. It encompasses everything I love in a YA contemporary: from the emotional story about first love, family dynamics, to a strong young heroine navigating life with all its obstacles. Katy Upperman is an author to keep an eye on. Please welcome her to the blog & don't miss out on the giveaway at the bottom to win a signed copy of KISSING MAX HOLDEN (open to US only).

About the book: Kissing Max Holden was a terrible idea...

After his father has a life-altering stroke, Max Holden isn't himself. As his long-time friend, Jillian Eldridge only wants to help him, but she doesn't know how. When Max climbs through her window one night, Jill knows that she shouldn't let him kiss her. But she can't resist, and when they're caught in the act by her dad, Jill swears it'll never happen again. Because kissing Max Holden is a terrible idea.

With a new baby sibling on the way, her parents fighting all the time, and her dream of culinary school up in the air, Jill starts spending more and more time with Max. And even though her father disapproves and Max still has a girlfriend, not kissing Max is easier said than done. Will Jill follow her heart and allow their friendship to blossom into something more, or will she listen to her head and stop kissing Max Holden once and for all? [goodreads]

Author Interview with Katy Upperman

1. Please tell us a bit about your debut novel KISSING MAX HOLDEN.


KISSING MAX HOLDEN is about a baker girl named Jill who, against her better judgment, kisses her troubled childhood friend, Max, setting a whole series of problems in motion. Along with plenty of romantic angst, Jill’s facing a host of other challenges. She’s about to become the world’s most reluctant big sister, her dad’s pulling away from the family, and her dream of culinary school is suddenly up in the air. Plus, she just can’t make herself stay away from Max, even though he’s got a girlfriend.

My goal in writing KISSING MAX HOLDEN was to tell an entertaining and romantic story about longtime friends whose feelings develop into more, but also to explore loyalty and fidelity, and the way families and friendships can either strengthen or weaken under stressful situations.

2. I've followed your publishing career since you announced your book deal. I think it's so inspiring! Please share with us how you came about as a writer.

Thank you! I started writing back in 2008. I’d recently quit my teaching job to be a stay at home mama, and I was desperate for a creative outlet and a project all my own. Plus, I’d just read TWILIGHT, which I found compulsively readable and incredibly entertaining. I’ve always been a reader, so I thought I might try my hand at writing, too. Turns out getting a book published isn’t as easy as I’d assumed. I wrote (and rewrote) a lot of manuscripts before signing with my agent. And then I wrote even more manuscripts, because submissions dragged on, and heartbreaking close call after heartbreaking close call rolled in. It was a frustrating and discouraging time, and I definitely thought about calling it quits.

But then I came across Swoon Reads, Macmillan’s crowd-sourced YA imprint, and thought it might be what I needed to get my foot in the proverbial door. I researched the imprint and the process and the team, and read several of Swoon’s already published books. It became pretty clear that KISSING MAX HOLDEN could fit in among their list. And so, with my agent’s blessing, I submitted my manuscript to the site, where members proceeded to read, rate, and comment on it. (You can learn more about Swoon Reads and the process here.) Eventually, after weeks of bouncing between hopeful and doubtful, the Swoon Team emailed to let me know that they wanted to publish KISSING MAX HOLDEN. After so many years of work and waiting, I was ecstatic!

3. Which authors/books are your go-to Summertime Reads?

Oh, gosh – so many! Miranda Kenneally, Jessi Kirby, Emery Lord, Trish Doller, Jenny Han, Sarah Ockler, Morgan Matson, Siobhan Vivian… Can you tell I love contemporary YA? I especially love to read romances during the summer. Bonus points for beachy settings and/or road trips!

4. What are your plans for release day?

I’m celebrating KISSING MAX HOLDEN’s release with my family. My mom and dad are coming for a visit so, along with my husband and girls, we’re planning to drop in on Jilly and Max at some local bookstores, followed by lunch at one of my favorite Mexican restaurants. I’m a frozen yogurt junkie, so I’m sure we’ll indulge in a treat, too.

I’m also doing some exciting events in the days following the book’s release. On August 5th, I’ll be hosting KISSING MAX HOLDEN’s Launch Party at my favorite local indie, One More Page Books, and then I’m heading out on a five city book tour, with stops in Richmond VA, Charlotte NC, Asheville NC, Atlanta GA, and Greenville SC. My tour buddy Christina June and I are so looking forward to meeting lots of fellow YA lovers!

5. When you started writing KISSING MAX HOLDEN, did your brain begin at the first chapter? Or was there a different scene that came about first & you wrote the story from there?

I always draft linearly because I have a hard time writing the in-between parts if I jump around. So, yes, I started at the beginning with KISSING MAX HOLDEN, though I’ve rewritten the story completely from what it was in its original version. All that earliest draft and the book that will soon be published have in common are a few character names, and the longtime-friends-turned-sweethearts trope. The first time I drafted KISSING MAX HOLDEN, the opening chapter was one that still exists in the finished book (the scene where Max drives Jill to school), but the circumstances and the conversation are entirely different now. I like the opening chapter of what the book eventually became so much more – obviously, because there’s kissing!

6. When you're not writing, what occupies your time?

I spend a lot of time adventuring with my family; since we’re currently living in the D.C. area, there’s plenty to see. I also love to bake (much like Jilly!) and I read whenever I get the chance

7. What are you working on next? Can you share anything with us about your 2018 release?

I can! My 2018 release is called THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF US. It’s a young adult romance about Elise, an aspiring photojournalist, and Mati, an Afghan poet. They meet by chance on a California beach and, as their friendship blossoms into more, find themselves struggling to keep their relationship secret from their disapproving families. I think of it as a fairy tale set in the real world, plus it features bits of verse, a really cute dog, and, of course, cookies. It’ll be out next summer. Aside from THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF US, I’m also working on a project I’m still holding close – a potential Book 3. :-)

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How great does KISSING MAX HOLDEN sound?! Y'all, I LOVED this book & now here's your chance to fall in love with it, too. Please enter the giveaway below to win a signed copy from the author (open to US only).

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Sarah's Summer Reading List + GIVEAWAY

This week's Sweet Summertime Reads is featuring some not-so-typical summery contemp books from one of my favorite people, Sarah from  What Sarah Read. I know that not everyone likes to read the same things I do during the summer -- & that's okay! It's the beauty of reading! We all gravitate toward something different.

So for this week I thought it would be great to reach out to some of my readers that aren't necessarily a fan of the contemporary genre. Sarah has put together a great summer reading list in the variety of sci-fi, fantasy, and action. If this is more your jam, then you're in for a treat!

She is also giving away one of the books from her summer reading list (open to US & International - must be able to ship from Book Depository), so be sure to enter the giveaway at the bottom!

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Thanks so much to Ginger for having me on her blog today as part of her epic Sweet Summertime Reads feature. Like Ginger, I'm a BIG fan of summer reading. There's nothing I love more than a lazy summer afternoon, sitting in the sun enjoying an amazing book. The best part about summer reading? You can read virtually anywhere. At the beach or pool, in a tent under the stars, on a road trip or snuggled in bed during a summer storm...the possibilities are endless.


Now, we all know summer is the perfect time to fall in love with a swoony contemporary romance. But if you ask me, it's also the perfect time of year to get sucked into the worlds of fantasy, science fiction and action-adventure! It's such a treat to find that perfect book in that perfect moment and read it from beginning to end in a flurry of pages, swoons and scenes that make your heart race. Lucky for you, I've come up with a list of five perfect summer reads and the perfect summer scene in which to read them. If I'm being honest though, you could read any of these books anywhere and they would still be absolutely amazing!

Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

Grab your flashlight, find a good patch of grass to get comfy in and dive into this epic space adventure! The format of this story is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. It’s a combination of interview transcripts, network transmissions, emails, official documents and so much more. It’s fascinating and provided a comprehensive look into an already thrilling and detailed story. Illuminae is unlike any book I’ve read before but still managed to be everything I love in an amazing sci-fi novel! Grab this one today and be amazed!

Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

Get comfy on your beach blanket. because this book is going to take over your life! The gorgeous and vivid imagery of Taylor's words, and the ideas that spring forth are so exquisite. “Strange the Dreamer” is pure magic. From the multitude of characters that I found myself caring so much about, to the rich and complex world that Taylor built as the foundation of her story. Don't blame me when you find yourself still parked on your beach blanket as the sun sets over the water forgetting about the world around you. This book sucks you right in and doesn't let go until the final page.

A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet

Make sure you're next to a cool body of water before you start reading this one. It's filled with all sorts of swoony and seriously steamy moments! A "Promise of Fire" is an epic Adult fantasy that pairs a stubborn and sarcastic heroine and a brooding and smoldering warlord who love to argue. Can you say enemies to lovers? SWOON! But what I love most about this book is the Greek mythology-inspired world that it's set in. The world is detailed, rich and expansive and it's the perfect book to lose yourself in while you soak up that summer sun.

The Gentleman's Guide to Vice Vice & Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

I JUST finished this book the other night and let me tell you...it is AMAZING! Seriously, one of the best books I've read this year! There's so much fun and adventure (and sass) packed into this story and it's the perfect book to bring along on an epic summer road trip with your bestie! Monty and Percy are such precious little cinnamon roles and I want to tuck them in my pocket and keep them safe from harm. Felicity, on the other hand, I want to be her sidekick while she takes over the world. DEFINITELY add this one to your summer reading.

Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco

This one is perfect for a stormy summer night! I don’t normally go for the dark and creepy books, and it’s pretty evident from the opening lines that this book is intense! But after a little bit of squirming and reading through my fingers, I discovered that I actually LOVED it! It's an intriguing, dramatic and tense novel that’s inspired by real life mystery and I loved the liberties she takes with the storyline. Most notably, the swoon! Yup, swoon in a story based on Jack the Ripper. I’m not going to say anymore though, you just have to read it for yourself to find out.

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Who's ready to read one of these action-packed, swoon-worthy, intensely intriguing stories?! If so, enter the giveaway below! One winner will be selected to choose from the five books mentioned above. This is open to US & International (must be able to ship from Book Depository). Good luck!

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Estelle & Beating the Heat in the City + GIVEAWAY

This week's Sweet Summertime Reads post comes from a veteran blogger, who actually started this summertime feature with me several years ago. I'm excited to have Estelle from Rather Be Reading on the blog today sharing some of her tips on how to beat the heat in the city.

Summertime is not always about beach vacations, time off from work, and lazy days by the pool. We all come from different walks of life, from different corners of the world. I thought it would be interesting to see how Estelle spends her summers in New York City.

Be sure to enter the giveaway at the end of the post for a chance to win a book of choice from one of Estelle's fave local indies + a pretty cool book to treat yourself with.

It’s always a treat to celebrate another round of Sweet Summertime Reads! Let’s be real – I’m not sure if I’ll ever get on a regular blogging schedule again – I’m mostly sharing book recs on Twitter @thatsostelle or Instagram @readinggals these days – but despite that, I’m still thrilled G asked me to contribute. On with the show!

Summertime is probably when I miss the suburbs the most. Growing up in New Jersey, I was always spending time in the backyard, swimming in the pool with my sister and my friends, and enjoying a BBQ. Living in Long Island for a few years, my husband and I lived so close to the beach, close enough to bring dinner there on weeknights after a commute home from work. There was always sand in our house. These days, we’re sweating it out in Queens and making the most of the quiet weekends when so many Manhattanites are in the Hamptons or on fancy vacations.

So I thought I would share a few ways I stay cool (duh, I’m always cool but you know what I mean):

1. Going to the library.

If you’ve been following along on Instagram, you may have seen that I challenged myself to read these 40 books that have been in my apartment forever. In the past year, I’ve been in a read and pass along type mood so it’s a nice way to cull and make someone else happy to. Of course, this also means saving my dollars for #2 and #3 on this list and heading to the library. It’s air conditioned! You can stay for a few hours! You can borrow books and go to the next door coffee shop. (Something I do all the time.) It’s a win win.

On my list: Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy (currently reading), The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Summerlost by Allie Condie. I also just finished Sarah Dessen’s Once and for All and Jamie Brenner’s The Forever Summer – which were both fantastic.

2. Investing in a lot of sundresses.

Sure, they are cute but they also sweep up all the sweat too. And are breezy – if the wind ever starts to blow. I basically live without pants all summer. You can quote me on that. Here are a few of my favorites: Lace Up Shift Dress (American Eagle), Off the Shoulder Maxi (Unique Vintage) and Leafy Ruffle Dress (Loft).

3. Trying new craft beer bars.

For the last couple of summers, my husband and I buy a beer passport for July through early September. For under 40 bucks, we can go to a 38 bars on this passport and get a beer FOR FREE. It basically pays for itself by beer #5. The passport has been an incredible way to support local businesses, explore new neighborhoods, and challenge ourselves to beat our record from previous years. (We have yet to finish the entire passport.)

While this is a limited NYC kind of thing, I recommend putting together your own challenge and get out there and support some new businesses.

4. No-bake treats!

It’s utter hell to turn on the oven in our tiny apartment. It’s actually hell all the time because our oven sucks, but it gets extra toasty in the summer. Time to TREAT YOURSELF. It’s true that my place of work is publishing this book (on August 8) but I’ve tried other no-bake recipes and NOTHING is quite as good as this crispy rice treat recipe made into a fun shape. (Even my mom liked it and she doesn’t like rice crispy squares.) I really want to make a Kermit the Frog – more to come on that. (Oh and you should follow @mister_krisp on Instagram because her updates always make me smile.)

5. Go to the beach or the burbs.

Coney Island! Rockaway! Since we don’t have a car, it’s a long-ish subway or bus ride to both but this means more reading time. We love heading to either of these for a change of scenery. And, of course, there’s always visiting my parents for some pool time, BBQ, and, ya know, catching up with the family and some of my hometown pals.

Nothing says enjoying summer in the city like GETTING OUT OF THE CITY.

☺

I hope whatever you end up doing, dear reader, includes enjoying a chilly beverage, escaping into a book, and surrounding yourself with people who bring you joy.

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How fun was this post from Estelle?! Here's your chance to win a book of choice from one of her favorite local indie bookstores: Astoria Bookshop ($20 limit) + TREAT YOURSELF! by Jessica Siskin (will be delivered after 8/8/17). This giveaway is open to US residents only -- good luck!

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Miranda Kenneally + GIVEAWAY

As you are reading this, I am currently living my best summer life possible -- at the beach!! Nothing is more sweeter than the sunshine on your bare shoulders and sand between your toes. Okay, well, maybe a good book to go along with it.

So, I am beyond thrilled to feature a very SWEET book by one of my favorite authors, Miranda Kenneally. Her eighth book in the Hundred Oaks series publishes tomorrow, but today I've got Miranda here to answer my questions on all things COMING UP FOR AIR.

Those who know me understand that I have a special place in my heart for swimming (it might have something to do with those good looking swimmer dudes, haha). I love watching swimmers race, and am always blown away by their physical endurance. Miranda has written a story all about swimming from a teenager's point of view. But in true Kenneally fashion, she's excelled at presenting the real struggles so many teens encounter and can relate to. Yes, I love that this book is all about swimmers, but I love it even more for featuring a strong female lead that questions what she should do and what she wants to do, yet still being true to herself in the end. This is a definite must read for the summer!

About the book: Swim. Eat. Shower. School. Snack. Swim. Swim. Swim. Dinner. Homework. Bed. Repeat.

All of Maggie’s focus and free time is spent swimming. She’s not only striving to earn scholarships—she’s training to qualify for the Olympics. It helps that her best friend, Levi, is also on the team and cheers her on. But Levi’s already earned an Olympic try out, so she feels even more pressure to succeed. And it’s not until Maggie’s away on a college visit that she realizes how much of the “typical” high school experience she’s missed by being in the pool.

Not one to shy away from a challenge, Maggie decides to squeeze the most out of her senior year. First up? Making out with a guy. And Levi could be the perfect candidate. After all, they already spend a lot of time together. But as Maggie slowly starts to uncover new feelings for Levi, how much is she willing to lose to win? [goodreads]

Author Interview with Miranda Kenneally

1. Tell us a little bit about your new book, Coming Up for Air.

COMING UP FOR AIR is about Maggie, a champion swimmer who spends all her time in the pool. As she's about to graduate high school, she starts to worry that she might have missed out on important teenage experiences, like having a boyfriend and worries that she's going to be the only person at college who's never fooled around. So she asks her best guy friend Levi to teach her the basics of hooking up.

I admit the plot may sound like a fluffy trope but it was important for me to show readers that everybody moves at their own pace when it comes to physical relationships, and that it's okay if you are a different point in your life than your friends. Maggie comes to understand that she wants an emotional connection as much as the physical, but that other people may want the physical without the emotion. And that's ok. What's important is figuring out YOUR comfort level when it comes to sexuality. It's your body, your feelings, and your life.

2. Since this is the last book in the Hundred Oaks series, what made you decide to end with this one?

I am really proud of this book and wanted this series to go out on a high note! I probably could've written another book, but two more? I wasn't sure if I had it in me to write two more books that I would be proud of. I would hate disappointing readers by giving them a bad product. And wouldn't it be weird if it were a nine-book series?

3. When you're not writing, or researching for writing, what occupies your time?

Reading and eating Mexican food! Also, working at the State Department, hanging out with my husband and cat, running, and working out at the gym, and riding my bike... to the Mexican place.

4. Out of all your characters, which one sticks out as a favorite (or most memorable) for you?

The characters I've known the longest are Sam Henry and Jordan. They both appeared on the first page of the first draft I ever wrote for this series. But the character that truly sticks out is Jesse Scott from Jesse's Girl. I started working on him back in 2010! He is so complicated - crotchety and guarded, but also caring (and sexy!). I love his sense of humor. And to think, Jesse and Maya nearly didn't get together, or even have a book!

Several beta readers and publishing professionals told me it would be cliche if the famous guy Jesse actually got together with not-famous Maya (the main character) of Jesse's Girl, so I tried giving her another love interest, which didn't work at all. It made the story so contrived and lame. Maya and the other guy had no chemistry. It wasn't until I just ignored all the critics and let my characters be together that I was happy with the story.

5. Is there a sport-related story you thought about writing as part of the Hundred Oaks series, but didn't follow through with?

I always wanted to write a book about hot lifeguards, but couldn't come up with a plot! At least with COMING UP FOR AIR I got to write about hot guys in swimsuits.

6. If your characters were all hanging out, which ones would it be and what might they be doing?

Jack Goodwin's family loves throwing lavish parties at their horse farm. I'm sure most of my characters are all at his massive 4th of July celebration! After having perhaps one too many cocktails, they abandon the swanky party in the tent when Jordan challenges everyone to a badminton tournament. Is it too late to write a Hundred Oaks book about badminton? *wink wink*

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Thank you so much, Miranda, for answering my questions! If you're anxious to read this book after finding out more about it, here's your chance to win a signed copy from the author. Giveaway is open to US residents only -- good luck!!

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Cards by Andrea S.

This week's Sweet Summertime Reads is featuring one of my dearest (and most favorite!) friends, Andi. Some of you may know her as @andiABCs from twitter, or from her blog which may be found here: https://andiabcs.com/.

She's an avid reader like myself, but she's also taken up crafting and creating cards. Her crafty talents speak for themselves! I thought it would be fun for my readers to check out her stuff and also to enter to win some of those amazing cards she's handmade.

If you're someone who likes to send cheer via snail mail, or always looking for a cute, unique card to include in a gift, Andi is your gal. I love what she makes and these summertime themed cards are PERFECT! Please welcome Andi to the blog...

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Wow, my 4th time being invited to do Ginger's fun feature, Sweet Summertime Reads! In my past 3 guest posts my posts were all book related and talked about books I was reading over the summer, books you should read over the summer or connecting books to locations in Boston. Today we are doing something different. Today I am showing you the new side of me, my crafty side.

If you are a reader of my blog or follow me on Twitter/Instagram, you may know I have become a card maker. About a year and a half ago I got into paper crafts and played around with making a lot of different things. It took about 6 months but I figured out what my niche is in the craft world and it is card making. In the last year + my card making style has changed and evolved but my love of it hasn't. In fact I recently opened my own Etsy shop where you can purchase my handmade cards: Cards by Andrea S..

What does this all have to do with my post for Ginger's blog? Well G asked me to show off my card making skills and make some fun summer themed cards. And the best part, all 4 of these cards can be yours by entering the giveaway below. So without further ado, the cards and supplies I used to make them.

Flamingo Card

I am a flamingo fanatic. If you know me, you know this about me. I just love everything that has them on it so making a flamingo card was the first thing I did. To be honest I wanted this card to be in your face flamingo so I went with it. I took a piece of white card stock and cut it to 5 1/2 x 4 1/4 (standard A2 size card base). Then I took my flamingo background stamp and used VersaMark ink (a clear sticky ink) and stamped the flamingo pattern down. When that was done I used white embossing powder to cover the panel and used my heat tool to melt the powder. After it was cooled I grabbed my Worn Lipstick Distress Oxide ink and blended it over the stamped panel. Grabbing my Hero Arts layering Flamingo stamp i created a die cut flamingo using some pink inks from The Ton. Then I die cut a rectangle and stamped the sentiment. I attached all of the components to the card panel which I attached to a piece of black card stock before gluing everything on to a card base and added some sequins for sparkle.

Products Used:

Finished Card:

Popsicle Card

For the popsicle card I went a little outside of the box. Basically I took the same card panel size as above and trimmed it to be 5 1/4 x 4. I then used my popsicle outline and stick outline stamps by Concord & 9th and created a background by stamping randomly in order on the panel. When all the outlines were done I used the backside of the popsicle fill in stamp to make the image bigger than the outline. I used a variety of inks from The Ton, Altenew and Simon Says Stamp for this process. I finished off the card with a sentiment from Sunny Studios and attached the panel to a card base.

Products Used:

Finished Card:

Pineapple Card

When I saw the palm leaf stencil I knew I was going to use it with the pineapple stamp and die set I owned. I took the stencil and taped it over a 5 1/4 x 4 card panel. Using to green inks from The Ton I blending the colors on in a randomish looking pattern. Because the panel was so bold I used a piece of vellum to soften to the look. Similar to the flamingo card, I grabbed my Pineapple layering stamp and die from Hero Arts and stamped out a fine pineapple. I used the large sentiment from the set and attached it like a banner to the pineapple and the attached them both to the panel. When the panel was complete I adhered it to a A2 size card base.

Products Used:

Finished Card:

Ice Cream Card

For this card I was inspired by a card I saw on line. I took my Sunny Studios Ice Cream layering set and used the sugar cone and ice cream scoop stamps. Before I did my stamping though I traced a circle on to my card panel. Using the circle as a guide I stamped out the ice cream cones and then the scoops. I used inks from The Ton, Altenew, and Hero Arts to create the color dimensions on the ice creams. After I had the ice creams done I die cut a circle out of copper card stock and adhered it to my panel over the traced lines. Then I used a sentiment from the stamp set and heat embossed it with copper embossing powder and attached the rectangle to my panel. I attached the panel to a card base and added some sequins for some sparkle.

Products Used:

Finished Card:

And there you have it, a brief description on how I made all 4 of my summer themed cards.

A huge thanks goes out to Ginger for inviting me to show my crafty side to all of you. She knows how much I love making a good card and she allowed me free reign with these.

Make sure you check out the giveaway below and all the other fantastic giveaways.

Thanks again G for having me for the 4th time!

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Here's your chance to win all 4 of these fantastic cards made by Andi! This giveaway is open to US residents only. Fill out the form below to be entered -- good luck!!

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Sara Biren + GIVEAWAY

Hey, my summertime reading friends! I'm excited to have a special guest on the blog today, sharing a bit more about one of MY favorite books I've read this year. It's the perfect dose of summery YA contemps that I love to devour -- full of emotion, tension, heartache, and that sweet, sweet first kind of romance.

THE LAST THING YOU SAID takes place on the lake in the beautiful state of Minnesota. The setting itself poses as its own character, in my opinion, so rich with emotion and vibrancy. I found myself escaping to this lakeside town every time I visited the pages of this beautiful story.

Please welcome author Sara Biren to the blog as she answers some of my own questions, plus shares some personal photos that inspired this unforgettable story. If you haven't yet heard of her book, I hope today's post puts it on your radar. It's a can't miss to read this summer!

About the book: Last summer, Lucy’s and Ben’s lives changed in an instant. One moment, they were shyly flirting on a lake raft, finally about to admit their feelings to each other after years of yearning. In the next, Trixie—Lucy’s best friend and Ben’s sister—was gone, her heart giving out during a routine swim. And just like that, the idyllic world they knew turned upside down, and the would-be couple drifted apart, swallowed up by their grief.

Now it’s a year later in their small lake town, and as the anniversary of Trixie’s death looms, Lucy and Ben’s undeniable connection pulls them back together. They can’t change what happened the day they lost Trixie, but the summer might finally bring them closer to healing—and to each other.

Author Interview with Sara Biren

1. Describe your book in 140 characters, twitter style.
Ben and Lulu deal with their grief and their feelings for each other the summer after the death of Trixie, his sister and her best friend.

2. What was it like to see your first published book in a bookstore?
It was truly a dream come true, especially because this book is so close to my heart. The moment was made even more special because my daughter was with me and she was absolutely beside herself with pride and excitement.

3. What truly sparked the idea to write this story?
I wanted to participate in Camp NaNoWriMo in July, 2011. A local teen was battling cancer and I frequently read his mother’s CaringBridge updates. I started to think about his friends, the people who would ultimately be left behind when he lost that battle several months later. And I started to think back on my own experiences with grief. Grief takes its time, and everyone handles their pain in a way unique to them.

4. A writer wears many hats. What else occupies your time other than writing?
I work full-time as a copywriter for a marketing and advertising agency as well as a freelance editor and grant writer on the side. My two kids (14 and 10) keep me very busy. They’re involved in theater, music, dance, tennis, and Scouts. I am very active with my son’s Boy Scout Troop and am my daughter’s Girl Scout Troop Leader. I also volunteer with our church and various other community organizations.

5. It's 10 years from now within the setting of your book, can you share with us what your characters might be up to? (spoiler free, of course!)
I think it’s safe to say that Ben is out on the lake fishing and guiding. Perhaps Lulu went to culinary school and has taken over the pie and bakery responsibilities at the Full Loon Café. You can tell a lot about a person by the kind of pie they order. Mainly if they’re a**holes or not.

6. Is there something new you are currently working on that you can share with us?
If you loved the idyllic setting of Halcyon Lake, Minnesota in the summer, you’re really going to love it in the dead of winter. I’m currently working on a book about the only female hockey player on her high school’s boys’ hockey team, and what happens when she suddenly finds herself in the spotlight – and falling for her captain.

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Every summer when I was a kid, my dad’s extended family spent a week at a resort near Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, to celebrate my Uncle Bud’s birthday. It was always my favorite week of summer vacation – reading on the beach, going out on the boat, fishing, hanging out with my aunts and uncles and cousins. I was completely enamored with the area and with lake life.

Today, June 19, would have been my Uncle Bud’s 85th birthday. He passed away three weeks ago, on Memorial Day, after spending the weekend at the lake.

I’ve often said that everyone should have an Uncle Bud – always ready with a corny one-liner and a hug – and I’m grateful for him, our big family, and those halcyon days up at the lake. If it weren’t for Bud, his love of the lake and for his family, THE LAST THING YOU SAID would have been a very different book.

The famous and iconic Pequot Lakes bobber water tower

Fishing off the dock, 1988

A cabin at Sunset Knoll Resort

Sunset Knoll Resort

The Biren brothers (Bud, Ted, and Chris) sometime in the 80s. Sara's dad is in the middle.

Bertha Lake, Pequot Lakes, MN

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Thank you so much, Sara Biren, for sharing your inspirations, your personal connections, & these wonderful memories that all make up this beautiful story. I know it's made me love it even more!

Want to read this book sooner rather than later? Here's your chance to win a signed copy + other Minnesota goodies from Sara Biren. Contest is open to US residents only -- good luck!

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Sweet Summertime Reads with Dating You/Hating You by Christina Lauren + GIVEAWAY

A double-dose of Sweet Summertime Reads this week?! You betcha! I am super excited about today's feature because it is showcasing one of my favorite Adult Romance writing duos -- Christina Lauren!

I discovered Christina Lauren a few years ago with their Wild Seasons series and have promptly re-read all of their books so many times I literally lost count. They are my go-to reads when I want something comforting, yet addicting. I KNOW I'll have a good time when I open a CLo book.

With their latest release DATING YOU/HATING YOU, I thought it would be an excellent addition to my Sweet Summertime Reads feature. There is nothing better than getting lost in a Christina Lauren novel while at the beach/pool/patio (or whatever floats your boat) this summer. See my thoughts below on their latest novel & then enter to win a paperback copy, courtesy of Gallery Books (open to US residents only).

Dating You/Hating You by Christina Lauren
Published: June 6, 2017 by Gallery Books

About the book: All’s fair in love and work. The first standalone romance by New York Times and #1 international bestselling author Christina Lauren (Beautiful Bastard) is a sexy, compulsively readable romantic comedy that dives headlong into the thrill and doubt of modern love.

Despite the odds against them from an embarrassing meet-awkward at a mutual friend’s Halloween party, Carter and Evie immediately hit it off. Even the realization that they’re both high-powered agents at competing firms in Hollywood isn’t enough to squash the fire.

But when their two agencies merge—causing the pair to vie for the same position—all bets are off. What could have been a beautiful, blossoming romance turns into an all-out war of sabotage. Carter and Evie are both thirtysomething professionals—so why can’t they act like it?

Can Carter stop trying to please everyone and see how their mutual boss is really playing the game? Can Evie put aside her competitive nature long enough to figure out what she really wants in life? Can their actor clients just be something close to human? Whether these two Hollywood love/hatebirds get the storybook Hollywood ending or just a dramedy of epic proportions, you will get to enjoy Christina Lauren’s heartfelt, raucous, and hilarious romance style at its finest. [goodreads]

This is by far one of, if not my #1, favorite romance trope. There is nothing better than a hate-to-love relationship. Throw in a sexy work environment + some insanely witty banter and you've got yourself the recipe for a deliciously steamy rom-com. I already know what to expect when I pick up a Christina Lauren book and that is ADDICTION. I could easily sit & read one of their novels in a day. It's that irresistible. DATING YOU/HATING YOU is guilty of proving the same effect!

Carter and Evie's first meet-up is by far one of the cutest, sexiest I've read in an adult romance novel. I won't provide details to keep out any spoilers, but just know that their story begins at such a high! Immediately I was pulled in, sitting court side with my pom poms, ready to cheer this couple on! But in true CLo fashion, their story isn't that easy. These two must strap it in and be prepared to take this crazy, wild, fun, HOT roller coaster of a ride.

If you're like me and crave ridiculously addictive sexy adult romances to read during the summer, then you definitely need to add this one to your reading pile! Christina Lauren have done it again, adding yet another novel I know I'll come back to, time and time again.

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Want to add DATING YOU/HATING YOU by Christina Lauren to your summer reading list? Here's your chance! Enter the giveaway below -- open to US residents only, courtesy of Gallery Books.

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