Showing posts with label Liana Gardner. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Liana Gardner. Show all posts

October 8, 2019

Book Blast + Giveaway: Speak No Evil by Liana Gardner




Speak No Evil
Author: Liana Gardner
Release Date: October 1, 2019
Publisher: Vesuvian Books
Hardcover: 314 pages


Description:


TRUTH IS THE HARBINGER OF HELL

What if every time you told the truth, evil followed?

My name is Melody Fisher. My daddy was a snake handler in Appalachia until Mama died. Though years have passed, I can still hear the rattle before the strike that took her from me.

And it’s all my fault.

Since then, I’ve been passed around from foster home to foster home. I didn’t think anything could be as bad as losing Mama.

I was wrong.

But I will not speak of things people have done to me. Every time I do, worse evil follows. Now, the only thing I trust is what saved me years ago. Back when I would sing the snakes calm ...


Praise for SPEAK NO EVIL:

Recommended for the INDIE NEXT LIST

"... suspense and intrigue ... Melody's story is grim, but hope is weaved in throughout ... highly emotional." ―School Library Journal

"Gardner tackles difficult topics, including bullying and abuse of all types, in a way that is both artistic, respectful ... [and] masterfully written." ―BookTrib

"... a touching tribute to the power of love, faith and steadfast, patient kindness to heal the damage done by human cruelty and thoughtlessness." ―IndieReader Approved

"... a very powerful novel that depicts the cruelty and injustice of the world while also highlighting the ever-present beauty that few see when struggling with dark issues. The book displays the power that love and music have even in the darkest of times. Gardner does an excellent job of portraying a teenage worldview while focusing on adult concepts." ―US Review of Books

"There are too many Melody Fisher's in our homes and schools who lock themselves away in a world where they are both desperate to be heard and afraid to speak up ... Speak No Evil is their story. A brilliant and novel approach to addressing important social issues." ―Viga Boland, Author of No Tears for my Father

"WOW! Just WOW! Gardner is a great author telling a story of death, sorrow, and so much more. You will fall in love with Melody ... You will feel her sorrow ... You will feel her shame ... you will feel everything with this character. A MUST read that will make you sit and think well after you turned the last page." ―Bookworm Tri-Cities, Bookstore

"... alternately beautiful and troubling--and a totally compelling read ... Gardner's characters are finely drawn and credible, and her plot is so relevant considering the thousands of children lost in the foster care system and at the mercy of those charged to care for them." ―Jack Magnus, Readers' Favorite

"... Melody's silence signifies the way some women feel about sharing their stories with other people, and how difficult it is to overcome the desire to retreat. I urge others to read it; the story of Melody and her bravery will speak to you and stay with you for quite some time." ―Tracy Young, Bulgarian Review

"Any victim of abuse, or those who blame themselves for events out of their control, needs to read this novel ... This book should be in every school library and youth centre. I cannot recommend it highly enough." ~Lesley Jones, UK authorbly with Noah’s grief, and readers will appreciate his return to the field.” ―Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

You can purchase Speak No Evil at the following Retailers:
 
Photo Content from Liana Gardner

Liana Gardner is the award-winning author of 7th Grade Revolution and the Misfit McCabeseries. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.

She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.

Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”

        

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*







 

December 19, 2018

7th Grade Revolution Blog Tour: Review + Giveaway

http://www.jeanbooknerd.com/2018/11/7th-grade-revolution-by-liana-gardner.html


7th Grade Revolution
Author: Liana Gardner
Release Date: October 24, 2017
Publisher: Vesuvian Books 
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC

Description:

WHEN UNEARTHING A NATIONAL TREASURE BECOMES A NATIONAL INCIDENT

Inspired by True Events

Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.

Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird.  


7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.

The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.

To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR.


AWARDS:
2018 American Fiction Awards Winner for Pre-Teen Fiction (Ages 10-12)
2018 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Finalist for Best Juvenile Fiction
2018 International Book Awards Finalist for Children's Fiction
2018 Hollywood Book Festival Honorable Mention for Children's Fiction

Praise for 7th GRADE REVOLUTION:

"7th Grade Revolution is a thrilling and engrossing ride through past and present based on real events in North Carolina. Though technically a middle grade book, I feel readers of all ages will enjoy this novel. Trust me, you won't want to put it down." ―Tracy Riva, Midwest Book Review

..". a stunning new Middle Grade novel that is part historical fiction, part action adventure mystery, and all around fun. Featuring a cast of wacky, interesting kids I was hooked on page one and enjoyed every twist and turn of the creative plot. Gardner is a writer to watch." ―Dan Elish, Award-Winning Author of BORN TOO SHORT: The Confessions of an Eighth-Grade Basket Case

..". an exciting, smartly written book filled with adventure, intrigue, and history in a modern school setting. Luke Spooner's accompanying art is simply spot on. I can't wait for my daughter to read this, and there's no higher compliment than that." ―Mercedes M. Yardley, Bram Stoker Award-Winning Author of Little Dead Red

So, I arrived home earlier today to find your book on my front porch and I have just come up for air, realizing that I haven't even eaten since I picked it up. (It's 11:00) I don't even know where to begin. Should I start with the dedication that brought me to tears? The first time I saw my name as the teacher and I gasped? (I really had forgotten that you had said you would use my name!) The fact that the beginning of the book is so very reminiscent of the real thing? The illustration toward the end when I saw myself? All of those things were beyond my expectations, but what I really want to say is that the book held me captive from beginning to end. You captured the middle school mind perfectly, showing their insecurities as well as the amazing strength that is just below the surface. Bravo! It is a wonderful book and I can see it being used during a study of government as a class read. The illustrator is also superb. I could go on and on. (I also am really amazed at how you captured me as a teacher ... how did you do that?) So thank you, thank you, thank you! I loved every part of this book and I am so very proud, as I said earlier, to have had any part in it. ―Karen Rectanus, Exploris Middle School 


You can purchase 7th Grade Revolution at the following Retailers:
  
7th Grade Revolution is a fun young adult/middle grade mystery that will have readers begging for more. It follows our two main characters, Rhonda and Dennis, fellow 7th graders, as they go on an adventure of a lifetime. The story is told from the third person point of view, in alternating chapters between Rhonda and Dennis. I'm not a big fan of the third person POV, but I can understand why the author used it in this story and it worked for it. I liked the alternating narratives of Dennis and Rhonda. It allows the reader to get to know each of them on a more personal level and to see each of their perspectives as everything around them unfolds. The chapters were short and quick to read, which made the pace of the book fast and easy. Each chapter beginning is accompanied by a black and white illustration, which I thought added a lot of charm to the novel and helps set it apart from others out there. The story wasn't a huge plus for me personally, mostly because I don't normally read this kind of fiction and I couldn't really connect with the characters. This is my own personal opinion and doesn't reflect poorly on the book, writing, or author in any way. I know other readers won't have the same opinion as I do, but I just wanted to mention it to explain why I didn't give it a higher rating. I recommend this for fans of YA fiction, middle grade fiction, contemporary fiction, adventure, and mystery.


Liana Gardner is the award-winning author of 7th Grade Revolution and the Misfit McCabeseries. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.

She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.

Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”
Author Links:
 -  1 Winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card.  
- 1 Winner will receive an Award-winning 2017 MG, 7th Grade Revolution Swag (Mugs, Playing Cards, T-Shirts) by Liana Gardner.
Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter


 



 

November 29, 2018

Trailer Blast + Giveaway: 7th Grade Revolution by Liana Gardner



7th Grade Revolution
Author: Liana Gardner
Print Length: 301 pages
Publisher: Vesuvian Books (October 24, 2017)
Publication Date: October 24, 2017
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B0748BLJLN


AWARDS:
2018 American Fiction Awards Winner for Pre-Teen Fiction (Ages 10-12)
2018 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Finalist for Best Juvenile Fiction
2018 International Book Awards Finalist for Children's Fiction
2018 Hollywood Book Festival Honorable Mention for Children's Fiction

Praise for 7th GRADE REVOLUTION:

"7th Grade Revolution is a thrilling and engrossing ride through past and present based on real events in North Carolina. Though technically a middle grade book, I feel readers of all ages will enjoy this novel. Trust me, you won't want to put it down." ―Tracy Riva, Midwest Book Review

..". a stunning new Middle Grade novel that is part historical fiction, part action adventure mystery, and all around fun. Featuring a cast of wacky, interesting kids I was hooked on page one and enjoyed every twist and turn of the creative plot. Gardner is a writer to watch." ―Dan Elish, Award-Winning Author of BORN TOO SHORT: The Confessions of an Eighth-Grade Basket Case

..". an exciting, smartly written book filled with adventure, intrigue, and history in a modern school setting. Luke Spooner's accompanying art is simply spot on. I can't wait for my daughter to read this, and there's no higher compliment than that." ―Mercedes M. Yardley, Bram Stoker Award-Winning Author of Little Dead Red

So, I arrived home earlier today to find your book on my front porch and I have just come up for air, realizing that I haven't even eaten since I picked it up. (It's 11:00) I don't even know where to begin. Should I start with the dedication that brought me to tears? The first time I saw my name as the teacher and I gasped? (I really had forgotten that you had said you would use my name!) The fact that the beginning of the book is so very reminiscent of the real thing? The illustration toward the end when I saw myself? All of those things were beyond my expectations, but what I really want to say is that the book held me captive from beginning to end. You captured the middle school mind perfectly, showing their insecurities as well as the amazing strength that is just below the surface. Bravo! It is a wonderful book and I can see it being used during a study of government as a class read. The illustrator is also superb. I could go on and on. (I also am really amazed at how you captured me as a teacher ... how did you do that?) So thank you, thank you, thank you! I loved every part of this book and I am so very proud, as I said earlier, to have had any part in it. ―Karen Rectanus, Exploris Middle School

Description:

WHEN UNEARTHING A NATIONAL TREASURE BECOMES A NATIONAL INCIDENT

Inspired by True Events

Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.

Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird. 


7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.

The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.

To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR
   

7TH GRADE REVOLUTION BY LIANA GARDNER EXCERPT:

In the darkness ahead, strange noises, squeaks like fingers sliding on a steel guitar—times a thousand—cut through a fluttery sound. Beating wings.

Crud. Rhonda threw her arms over her head and ducked. “Bats!”

Selena screamed.

The shrillness ricocheted off the walls and assaulted Rhonda’s ears. “Get down.” Didn’t they know bats moving in a group couldn’t use their natural navigation? “And turn off the flashlight.

Curtis tossed the torch down and hunched in front of her. As the sound grew louder, he turned and put his arms around her.

Omigosh, omigosh, omigosh. They were under attack by a bat colony and the only thing that mattered was Curtis Vanhouten had his arms around her. Well, not under attack, but close enough. The noise swelled as the bats flew overhead, the vibrations from the thrusting wings bounced off their hunched bodies.

When they had passed, Selena whimpered. “Can we get up yet?”

Rhonda peeked into the surrounding darkness. “I don’t know.” The sound decreased as the bats flew farther away. “We came from that direction, unless they go out the trap door, how will they get out?”

Goodness. What if they went flying through the school? Would the FBI break their pact to stay out if they saw a bat cloud flying past the windows?

The peeping sounds grew louder. “They’re coming back. Stay down.” Were they going to wind up crouched on the tunnel floor in waning light from the torch while being dive-bombed by bats all day? The cloud flew overhead and back through the tunnel. The crew waited in case they came back.

Rhonda uncovered her head and strained to hear any noise through the silence. Nothing. “I think they’re gone.”

Curtis let his arms fall to his sides. Then he reached for the torch and held it up again.

She stood. In the dim light she saw Dennis had covered Maddie in the same way Curtis had shielded her. Well, it was nice while it lasted, whatever the reason.

Selena clung to James’s arm. “We’re going to follow the bats?” Her voice rose to a squeak.

Rhonda put one hand on her hip. “You can always go back to the Dungeon.”

“No.” Selena straightened. “I’m going with you.”

Curtis faced forward. “Let’s go then.”

You can purchase 7th Grade Revolution at the following Retailers:
 

Photo Content from Liana Gardner

Liana Gardner is the award-winning author of 7th Grade Revolution and the Misfit McCabeseries. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.

She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.

Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”

        
*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*










 

October 26, 2018

Trailer Blast + Giveaway: The Journal of Angela Ashby by Liana Gardner

http://www.jeanbooknerd.com/2018/09/trailer-blast-journal-of-angela-ashby.html


The Journal of Angela Ashby
Author: Liana Gardner
Release Date: September 24, 2018
Publisher: Vesuvian Books 

Description:

I have great power.
That’s what she told me. The old fortune-teller at the school carnival.
I thought I was doing the right thing … with the magic journal she gave me. But nothing could prepare me for what happened next.
Or, for what I unleashed.

At a school carnival, a mysterious fortune-teller gives twelve-year-old Angela Ashby a journal and warns her to use it wisely. Nothing prepares Angela for the journal’s power—when she pours her heart onto its pages her desires come true.

She tests the journal by conjuring a gnome, a unicorn, and a farting fairy and then uses it to stop the school bullies in their tracks. But the unintended consequences alienate her best friend and puts her favorite teacher in danger of losing her job.

After she shares her deepest desire of all—that her parents get back together—her adversary steals the journal, and Angela fears she will use it to bring mayhem to the entire school if she doesn’t get it back.  


Praise for THE JOURNAL OF ANGELA ASHBY:

"Gardner has created a likable character in Angela, who faces off with the class bully in defense of herself and her best friend. Alternately full of sass and seriousness, Angela quickly learns that writing in her new journal may lead to some unintended consequences, some hilarious and some grave. An enjoyable tween romp about the familiar world of bullies mixed with a bit of magic, this one would be great for a class read or group discussion." ―Seattle Book Review

"The Journal of Angela Ashby is a middle grade fiction by Liana Gardner and is perfectly written for the target audience. A combination of magic, childhood troubles, social messages, and the need to think before acting is prevalent, and a lesson well ingrained into the pages, There is some good tension building, injections of humour, and character development. Angela and Mallory make a great team, perfectly complementing each other in the way close friends do. This is certainly a book I will read with my son when he is older, as I think it instills some important lessons and values,much like the old 80's and 90's cartoons used to do. While the book itself has a clear beginning and end, there are hints that a sequel may follow, and it's certainly something I would consider picking up. If you're looking for a story of friendship, childhood problems, and a healthy sprinkling of magic in everyday life, then look no further." ―K.J. Simmill, Award-Winning British Author

"The Journal of Angela Ashby by Liana Gardner is a charming story of action and consequence. Gardner presents her characters and their problems with an equal touch of magic and reality. This allows the message of the tale to come through while entertaining instead of preaching. Gardner does a great job of taking what could be a clichéd story and putting a few twists in it to keep it fresh and humorous." ―Kris Moger, Readers' Favorite

"The Journal of Angela Ashby is an engaging and fun coming-of-age story about a twelve-year-old girl who is suddenly the possessor of great power. I loved following as Angela began to appreciate her journal's powers and realized the importance of carefully considering everything she wished for.Throughout the story, Gardner addresses the issue of bullies and bullying, which is something all kids and most adults have to deal with at some point, and she shows how Angela learns to differentiate between solving the problem and descending into bullying behavior herself.Gardner also admirably addresses the stress and confusion felt by kids and tweens when their mom and dad get divorced. The Journal of Angela Ashby is a marvelous fantasy that brings up real-life issues without lowering the magic and fun potential for a moment, and Sam Shearon's illustrations really make it all come alive most brilliantly." ―Jack Magnus, Author 


You can purchase The Journal of Angela Ashby at the following Retailers:
 

Another thought hit. One I couldn’t stop giggling over. I grabbed the journal and scribbled quickly.

A fairy dressed in a lilac and purple dress, with short dark hair and rainbow wings stood next to Mallory and picked through the baggies of food. Mallory didn’t notice.

And I wasn’t going to tell her. I waited.

The cat, nose to the ground, hind end held high, crawled out of the bushes. One stealthy step at a time, it stalked the fairy as she checked out Mallory’s lunch. I held back a snicker.

Mallory’s nose wrinkled. “What is that obnoxious smell? Angela, did you fart?”

I broke out laughing. “No.”

But then the smell reached me and my laugh turned to a cough. Definitely foul.

“Then what is that smell? It’s horrid.” Mallory plugged her nose and her eye lit on the fairy. “What did you do, Angela?”

I took a deep breath to try to get my laughter under control. I nearly choked, which stopped the laughing.

“You’re always saying fairy farts, so I thought I’d give you real ones.”

I doubled over laughing at the look of outrage on Mallory’s face.

She got to her feet and backed away from the fairy. “Hey fairy, do you think you can keep your toots to yourself?”

The cat dodged Mallory to keep from getting stepped on. Before it could pounce on its target, the fairy drew herself up to her full height and flew into Mallory’s face.

“I do not appreciate being called fairy. Do you like it when someone calls you girl?” She hovered with arms crossed, waiting for a response.

“What’s your name, then?”

“Tatiana. And what may I call you?” Her arms dropped slightly.

“My name is Mallory and this is my friend, Angela.” Her lip curled in disgust.

Tatiana must have let another fart fly. The cat dashed over and sat next to my backpack, twitching its tale, but stayed aloof.

“How does something so small put out such a powerful, evil smell?” She pinched her nose again.

“I have no idea what you are talking about.” Tatiana’s cheeks turned pink.

Mallory took a few steps toward me to get away from the smell. “I thought fairy farts were supposed to smell like roses.”

I laughed so hard my side hurt and tears rolled down my cheeks. No matter where Mallory went, Tatiana followed.

“Angela, make her go away.”

I tried to catch my breath.

Tatiana yelped. “Mallory, I think that is very rude of you. I’m trying to make friends and you keep running away from me.” Her squeaky little voice sounded indignant.

“Look Stinkerbell, I don’t think this friendship is going to work. Maybe you can make friends with a skunk.”

“Stinker … Stinkerbell. Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha.” I literally rolled on the ground laughing.

Mallory picked up the journal and dropped it on me. “Angela, I’m serious. Write in the book and make Tatiana disappear. She doesn’t seem to be going the way of the gnome or unicorn.”

Copyright © 2018 by Liana Gardner
Liana Gardner is the award-winning author of 7th Grade Revolution and the Misfit McCabeseries. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.
 
She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.
 
Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”

Author Links:
WEBSITE: http://lianagardner.com/
TWITTER: 
@lkgg  
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16959433.Liana_Gardner
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/lianakgardner
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/liana.gardner/
 

(1) Winner will receive an Award-winning 2017 MG, 7th Grade Revolution Swag (Mugs, Playing Cards, T-Shirts) by Liana Gardner.  
 
(1) Winner will receive a $25 Dollar PayPal/Amazon Gift Card.
 Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter









 

October 28, 2017

Book Blast + Giveaway: 7th Grade Revolution by Liana Gardner

7th Grade Revolution 
Author: Liana Gardner 

Description:

WHEN UNEARTHING A NATIONAL TREASURE BECOMES A NATIONAL INCIDENT    

Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.    

Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird.   

7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.   

The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.   

To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR!

   
Praise for 7th Grade Revolution:

a thrilling and engrossing ride through past and present based on real events in North Carolina. Trust me, you won’t want to put it down.” ~Tracy Riva, Midwest Book Review 

“… a stunning new Middle Grade novel that is part historical fiction, part action adventure mystery, and all around fun. Featuring a cast of wacky, interesting kids I was hooked on page one and enjoyed every twist and turn of the creative plot. Gardner is a writer to watch.” ~Dan Elish, Award-Winning Author of BORN TOO SHORT: The Confessions of an Eighth-Grade Basket Case 

“… an exciting, smartly written book filled with adventure, intrigue, and history in a modern school setting. Luke Spooner’s accompanying art is simply spot on.” ~Mercedes M. Yardley, Bram Stoker Award-Winning Author of Little Dead Red 

“… the book held me captive from beginning to end. You captured the middle school mind perfectly, showing their insecurities as well as the amazing strength that is just below the surface. Bravo!” ~ Karen Rectanus, Exploris Middle School

    
In the darkness ahead, strange noises, squeaks like fingers sliding on a steel guitar—times a thousand—cut through a fluttery sound. Beating wings.  

Crud. Rhonda threw her arms over her head and ducked. “Bats!” 

Selena screamed. 

The shrillness ricocheted off the walls and assaulted Rhonda’s ears. “Get down.” Didn’t they know bats moving in a group couldn’t use their natural navigation? “And turn off the flashlight. 

Curtis tossed the torch down and hunched in front of her. As the sound grew louder, he turned and put his arms around her.  

Omigosh, omigosh, omigosh. They were under attack by a bat colony and the only thing that mattered was Curtis Vanhouten had his arms around her. Well, not under attack, but close enough. The noise swelled as the bats flew overhead, the vibrations from the thrusting wings bounced off their hunched bodies. 

When they had passed, Selena whimpered. “Can we get up yet?” 

Rhonda peeked into the surrounding darkness. “I don’t know.” The sound decreased as the bats flew farther away. “We came from that direction, unless they go out the trap door, how will they get out?” 

Goodness. What if they went flying through the school? Would the FBI break their pact to stay out if they saw a bat cloud flying past the windows? 

The peeping sounds grew louder. “They’re coming back. Stay down.” Were they going to wind up crouched on the tunnel floor in waning light from the torch while being dive-bombed by bats all day? The cloud flew overhead and back through the tunnel. The crew waited in case they came back. 

Rhonda uncovered her head and strained to hear any noise through the silence. Nothing. “I think they’re gone.” 

Curtis let his arms fall to his sides. Then he reached for the torch and held it up again. 

She stood. In the dim light she saw Dennis had covered Maddie in the same way Curtis had shielded her. Well, it was nice while it lasted, whatever the reason. 

Selena clung to James’s arm. “We’re going to follow the bats?” Her voice rose to a squeak. 

Rhonda put one hand on her hip. “You can always go back to the Dungeon.” 

“No.” Selena straightened. “I’m going with you.” 

Curtis faced forward. “Let’s go then.”

   
Liana Gardner is the two-time teen choice award-winning author of the Misfit McCabe series. Daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana Gardner combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Born in Seattle, WA and raised in southern California, Liana is definitely a west coast girl, but loves to travel. She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits. 

Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”

    amazon or paypal 
$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway 
Ends 11/12/17




Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.