Saturday Spotlight!

Well, here it is! My FIRST Saturday Spotlight since I've been back! I'm going to try to introduce you to as many new blogs and bloggers as I can! I've had a great response to The Saturday Spotlight but a slow response time in getting the questions back to me.  I will keep the feature every week that I can because I think it's important to find new blogs to read weekly and new friends to meet!  If you're interested in being spotlighted here, don't hesitate to hit the "contact me" button and I'll be sure to get right back to you!

I hope you enjoy this week's Spotlight Blog and Blogger! You certainly won't find this sweet little flower hanging around the garden...

What's Your Name? My name is top-secret classified information, but you can call me Orchid.

Alias? Orchid Forsythia

Your Blog Name? The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia

Why did You Choose that Specific Name? I chose The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia, because I thought it sounded really cool and original, plus it kind of gives my blog an air of mystery.

Where can we find you on the net? (A.K.A. Your Blog URL) - http://hauntedorchid.blogspot.com/

*Go Ahead and Look I'll Wait ...*

Can you give us a quick bio about yourself?   About me, hmm, I love to read and can practically always be found with my nose in a book. And if I'm not reading I am working on my blog.

Why did you start your blog? I wanted to share my personal thoughts on the books that I read. I’ve also found that it’s a great way to find neww books and authors that I might never have bothered looking into reading.

What is your favorite genre and/or genres? My favorite genres are YA, fantasy, mystery sci-fi, horror, and supernatural. I also have a soft spot for mangas.

Who is your favorite author? My all-time favorite author would have to be Agatha Christie, she
completely rocks. Her mysteries are some of the best I have ever read

What's your favorite book of all time? I guess I would have to say that "Death on the Nile" by Agatha Christie is my favorite book, but there’re a ton of books that are tied for second.

Has there ever been a book you've "faked" reading? No. If I didn’t like it enough to finish, I’m going to be truthful and say that I didn’t finish it.

What are you currently reading? Will there be a review/reviews in the works? I am currently reading Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld. Yes, there will be a review sometime in the future for it. I am also currently
working on a review for Seeker by William Nicholson; hopefully I’ll have it up by the end of the week.

Please Name & Describe Your Blog Features:  I participate in quite a few memes,  like, Teaser Tuesday, where you post a short teaser from your current read; In My Mailbox, where you post about books and book swag that you have received, bought, or borrowed; Wish List Wednesday where you tell about a book that you are looking forward to buying. I have also begun accepting affiliates, and still have a few open slots. While I really enjoy doing memes, my favorite feature on my blog is reviews. I love reviewing books and introducing other people to new books and authors.

Describe your review system: My review system is probably one of the least complicated ones. 1 pineapple, means it was a complete waste of my time; 2 pineapples, means I just didn’t enjoy it; 3 pineapples, means it was good, but not necessarily something I’d re-read; 4 pineapples means that I really liked it; 5 pineapples means that I loved it and would recommend it to everyone.

How is your blog unique from other blogs? I think what makes my blog unique is that I review more obscure books and tend to read to the beat of my own drum.

How do you market your blog Orchid? By commenting on other blogs, and participating in challenges and guesting at other blogs.

Can you give us 3 tips about content? Tip number one: try not to include spoilers in your reviews, it tends to turn people off from reading a book where they already know the big twist. Tip number two: to keep in mind that authors are real people to, so try to keep the snarkiness to a minimum. Tip number three: Make sure you have the correct info about a book (i.e. author’s name, title, pub date…).

How about tips on Blog promotion? Two good ways to promote our blog would have to be, commenting on and following other blogs. Because you’ve got to get your blog out into the blogosphere if you want to get noticed.
Thank Youfor having me at Park-Avenue Princess. It has been a blast!

You're more than Welcome Orchid! I hope you'll continue to stop back and you know you're always welcome here! By the way, the J*Flops Giveaway and The Space Between Trees (autographed copy) Giveaway are both still open! Plus, I have some more to put up this week along with some great authors stopping by Park-Avenue Princess! Don't forget that it's almost time for me to list the Brand New Nook Giveaway, we're very close to the 1,000 Followers Celebration! 

Again, if  YOU Would Like to be a Part of The SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT just drop me a note or if you're comfortable with putting it in the comments section you can do that and I will get back to you immediately! There's a lot that we can do with the Saturday Spotlight! It's a great way to meet new people, find new blogs to read and help each other bring in new followers! I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!


KISSES and TOODLES!






Thanks,

Orchid

http://hauntedorchid.blogspot.com

Saturday Spotlight

Saturday Spotlight is a feature that I truly miss on Park Avenue Princess and would love to start up again! So, if you're a new blogger, a fairly new blogger or a seasoned blogger and would like to tell everybody a little bit about yourself, your blog, and why it's SO FABULOUS!  Click the  "Contact Me" button up top,
and I'll be more than happy to send you over my interview letter. Then it's YOUR BLOG NAME in the SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT!

What I like best about Saturday Spotlight is how easy it is making new friends just by clicking a link! There  are many amazing blogs out there, and I'd be honored to bring some new visitors your way.  Once you email me, I'll let you know all the things that can be done with Saturday Spotlight such as Giveaways between the two blogs.  For an example of a Past Saturday Spotlight - go HERE.

If you'd like more information or if you'd like to be interviewed, let The Princess know by clicking the "Contact Me" button!  Happy Weekend!




KISSES and TOODLES

Huge Giveaway, Reviews & Ramblings

This is A Royal Rambling by Order of the Princess:

I just wanted to make a post as a little explaination, reminder and to let you know about some of the wonderful things planned for Park-Avenue Princess!  As most of you know, I was "away" for a little while due to an ongoing  personal illness and I am trying to get  Park-Avenue Princess right back to where it was so winners are being notified by email and starting with the LIZZY BLEU GIVEAWAY, which is right below this post, I will start posting winners on the blog again.  I just need to catch up! 

Speaking of the LIZZY BLEU GIVEAWAY, you still have plenty of time to enter! It's open to everyone, no matter where you live (no P.O. Boxes) as long as you are a friend on Google Friend Connect by following this blog.  This is important because Park-Avenue Princess wants her friends back and her traffic and is going to reward all of her friends by having a HUGE GIVEAWAY.

What is this HUGE GIVEAWAY you ask?  How about a Brand New B&N Nook? Would that make you happy? There will be several ways for you to win. All I'm going to need you to do is spread the word about Park-Avenue Princess and I'd like to see at least 1000 followers and we're almost there.  But, again, there will be many ways to enter.  So, you do have that to look forward to VERY soon!

The next GIVEAWAY I have for you will be from J*Flops! There will be Two winners for this Giveaway and you can design your own pair of Flip Flops and when I say they are not only ADORABLE they are MADE with love and quality as well! Starting NOW and ENDING August 31st you can use the code PRINCESS at the checkout and receive 15% off your order at the J*Flops site! I will have my review and the giveaway up VERY VERY SOON! If you sign up for updates, you won't miss it! I LOVE my pair and am going to buy myself another pair.  Who doesn't love their flops in the summer? These do not pinch between the toes and their IS a style for everyone!  You'll see what I mean!  I'd start browsing J*Flops now so you get an idea for what you want as a treat for your feet!

As for my Royal Reviews, this Princess is So behind.  She's read more books than she can count, but all of her reviews are on index cards and this week I would like to get up some wonderful books that are coming out tomorrow from CANDLEWICK PRESS! Their Spring/Summer line up is absolutely amazing!

I have so many plans in the works for Park-Avenue Princess and I'm hoping to get the changes done quickly but I can't find someone that knows exactly what I'd like.  I hope you'll stay with me and PLEASE visit often. Leave comments, I love that! Plus, here's a hint - Once I put up the Nook Giveaway, it's going to be a way to earn yourself some pretty easy points! A daily visit and a comment or two! I try to visit sites daily as well and if you'd like me to stop by yours well then just leave it in the comments!

Another thing I'd like to bring back is my SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT! That means if you are another Blogger and would like to be featured here, please hit my contact button and let me know! If you've already gotten my letter for SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT but, I never got to you, contact me and we'll work something out! 

Last order of business for now...if you've won something from me, but have not received it, Please follow THESE INSTRUCTIONS - Hit the "CONTACT BUTTON" up top and fill it out with your email address along with your name and prize and I will get back to you!

Thank You for making Park-Avenue Princess the site that it's become! I've got so much more in store and I hope you'll stay here with me and grow!


Kisses and Toodles!

Saturday Spotlight and a Giveaway!

Shhhh.... I know! I know! It's "technically" Sunday.  But, I figured that since we turned back the clocks, maybe, just maybe, I could get away with it!  Sneaky... huh?

Well here we are again! Finally! A new Sunday...um, SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT!  And look who we have instore for you this week!

And what shall we call you?  Ya' know...what's your name? I like to surround myself with a glamour of mystery... ;)

*Nods head*  That's why you're here...right?  You're surrounding yourself with glamour! *giggles* Get it! Get it? Me.... Me... *ha ha ha*  Glam...o..ur...  Ok... Next!


Alias? Zombie Girrrl! I'd been known as "21," but adopted the new moniker from Taschima of Bloody Bookaholic after I left a rather lengthy and passionate rant on the many uses of zombies in literature. She kinda gave me my online identity.

Very chic! Spooky! I likey!

Your blog name? Crackin' Spines & Takin' Names. I changed it for Zombie Appreciation Week, though, to Crackin' Spines & Takin' Brains. Me so clever. =9

Oh... that YOU are!  *wink*
Crackin' Spines? *giggles*   Get it?  Crack...   *ahem*

And where can we find this FABU Blog? http://crackinspines.blogspot.com/

Well? Go take a peek...  Yeah! I'll Wait!

Alright. They're back! How about a "Quickie Bio"?  I’ve always felt that biographies were for successful people, but I’ll give it a shot anyway!

I’m a military brat, so I’ve moved around a lot, and have the bragging right of having lived on all three coasts. I didn’t get into reading until my early teens, mostly because I didn’t like sitting still (still don’t), but now I love “traveling” with books. That sounds lame, but that’s how it is! Books feed my imagination and fuel my daydreams. Also, they’re the only friends that never get left behind (bar some disastrous packing accident). They’ve always been the first things out of the box, and I never travel without four or five of them.

Why did you start your blog? I started my blog after seeing how many new books my friends were finding through fellow bloggers, I wanted in! I came for the books, but I stay for the people! I’ve met a ton of nice people, and there’s always something going on!

Amen to that!

What is your favorite genre and/or genres? It’d be quicker to tell you what I don’t like!

*Well by all means then...it is YOUR show, right?* SPILL IT!

 I like fiction and non-fiction (LOVE reading about the 1918 flu pandemic!), but I basically only read YA fiction because it’s easier to avoid smut (I hate smut!). I love supernatural, paranormal, and fantasy; although I do like the occasional contemporary fiction too, like An Abundance of Katherines.

Who is your favorite author? Ooh, hard! I have a favorite author for every genre, subgenre, and day of the week! Tamora Pierce is my fallback, though. Her Tortall books never disappoint, and I’ve been reading her stuff faithfully since I was thirteen. Her sheroes (Literally she-heroes, her word, not mine. “Heroine” is too druggy, even with the extra e.)  kick butt!

"Butt" Kicking is ALWAYS Good...  Did you say 13?

What is your favorite book of all time? That is probably the hardest question ever conceived by man.  *Note: I am a Woman * Fiction would be World War Z by Max Brooks. Non-fiction, Flu by Gina Kolata. YA fiction… that’s too hard to answer. There’s so much good stuff! Too much! No, wait, there’s no such thing as too many good books!

Describe your review system: My review system is highly scientific. I read a book, decide how much danger I’d risk to get at that book, then I assign it a rating from 1 to 5 zombies. I really admire people who can break a book down to its constituent parts and rate every individual aspect of a book, but I haven’t been able to come up with my own detailed system, so for now, zombies it is!

And Zombies...Rock!

How is your blog unique from other blogs? Well, it’s the only place in the known universe where you can read what I think about books. Haha. One thing that sets me apart from other bloggers is my footnotes. I include my deeper or unrelated thoughts on things in footnotes at the end of most posts. It works out for me because my mind tends to wander, which leads to rambling and a lack of clarity. Plus, they’re fun to do!

How do you market your blog? I haven't really marketed my blog, per se. I've posted a link to it on my Shelfari page and linked my IMM posts on The Story Siren, but this is the first actual promotion I’ve ever done. I’ve been a bit of a chicken-butt in that department.

tsk tsk... "chicken butt" (Note: Lots of  "butt" and "zombie" talk) ..

Can you give us three tips about content? Be honest. Be kind. Be yourself! You can give a poor review without tearing the book or writer down, and the most interesting blogs are the ones where you really get a feel for what the blogger is like through their writing.

Great Advice!

Can you give three tips about blog promotion? Look out for blogs that promote their fellows and inquire into being included, don’t snag people’s email addresses for the purpose of advertising (very poor internetiquette), and be patient.

Patience is a Virtue...

Thank you for being here Zombie Girl! Oh and Guess what "Chicken Butt"?  I love you and your blog!  *giggles*  (I crack myself up)!

OK! Now that you've got to know Zombie Girl, she's been kind enough to offer a really Awesome Giveaway!  Are you ready?!? 

I knew you were!

GIVEAWAY!

Top 5 Recommended Reads Contest!

The winner will choose one of ZG's Top 5 Recommended Reads for their prize (all paperback)!

The choices are:

World War Z by Max Brooks

Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow

Terrier by Tamora Pierce

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

Den of Shadows Quartet (Yes, all 4 books [in one]!) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

ZG's RULES:

To enter just leave a comment telling me what which book you’d like to win and answer me this: What is your top reading recommendation? (This question is entirely self-serving as I’m always on the lookout for new reading material.)

Don’t forget your email address! US mailing addresses only, please (sorry, globies, I can’t afford the shipping right now!)

MY RULES!

Blogger Blogs, You MUST Be A Google Friend Connect Follower

For This Giveaway, That means on BOTH Blogs to be Entered!

How do you do this? You click the FOLLOW Button up in

The Top Corner and PLEASE Make Sure Your Settings Are Public!

If you are from another type of blog, please let me know HOW you are following!

How Do you Win? It's Simple!

All Entries MUST be in By Midnight November 21st! (EST)

Winner Drawn on or about the 22nd!

Extra Entries

You MUST be a FOLLOWER with GOOGLE FRIEND CONNECT on Both Blogs

or the following will Not Count! Also, If you do not include an Email Address, I have

to pick another winner. I can't chase email addresses any longer.

I Recommend Following On Twitter -It's NOT Required But I do Contests,

and Giveaways there as well! Currently, I'm doing a giveaway for a

$50.00 Barnes & Noble Gift Card there! You can still get in on that!

I'll tell you how in another post! But, if you follow on Twitter, I bet

you'll find out MUCH sooner!

Plus, there are Major Announcements made on Twitter and not Here!

My NEXT post will be about how to win either a Kindle, Nook or Sony E-Reader!

That's YOUR Choice! Well...The Winner's Choice and That Will Be ONE of You!

The Choice Is Yours!

+2 If you Subscribe by Mail

+2 If you Subscribe via Google Reader

+3 If you Rate Me On Blogged (see bottom of blog)

+5 If you TWEET About This Giveaway (Leave Link Please)

+10 If you Follow Me on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)

+15 If you blog about this Giveaway in it's own post (Link)
+20 If you Put My Button On Your Blog and Link Back

Separate your entries one per post! (either each or just +5 for example)

(+25 for each and every NEW follower you bring me)

They just have to mention it in their post!

You will BOTH Get the Points!

As Always, Good Luck and HAVE FUN!!

** If YOU Would LIKE To Be FEATURED Please Hitt "Contact Me" **

OR

** Send Me An Email At IAmHiMaintenance{at}aol{dot}com **

and Preach to the Princess!!

Kisses & Toodles!!

Saturday Spotlight and How You Could Win An Amazon Gift Card!!

It's already my favorite time of the week again!  Yes, it's the Weekend! And the Weekend means The Saturday Spotlight and the Saturday Spotlight Means Learning about A Fellow Blogger!  This week I have a Blogger that I've always admired! Her site is informative and fun!  Without further ado, I give you...

This week's Saturday Spotlight...

Spotlighter? Are you there? *yoo-whoo* Come out! Come out! Where ever you are ... and tell us YOUR NAME!!

Sheila DeChantal

And What would be your Online Alias Sheila?  In blog comments and on Twitter I go as Bookjourney!

I *knew* that ... I just didn't know if *everyone* knew that ! (now you DO!)

What's Your Blog name? One Persons Journey Through a World of Books (believe me.... if I would have known about the blogging world when I started my blog.... the name would have been much shorter! LOL)

*Giggles* I REALLY Like it though!  It's Right to the Point! *Bam*! -- Which makes it VERY You!

Where can we find you in the Blog-o-sphere?  http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/

Can you give us a quick bio about yourself? Sure! I am a 42 YO go getter. I love to have adventures! I am married with 2 grown boys. I enjoy reading (it's true!), writing, biking, rollerblading, and hanging with family and friends. I love helping out my community and I have been to Honduras 6 times to work with street kids. My 7th time will is coming up on October 30th of this year.

*SEVEN* times! You ARE a Go Getter! And that's only ONE reason I LOVE ya'!

Why did you start your blog? I started it for me... I didn't know there were others like me when I started. It was more of an online journal of what I had read. Like record keeping. I was so surprised when someone commented on my blog and when I linked to them... I found a whole new world! (I can almost here the words to that song in Disney's Aladdin movie.... "A Whole New World"

::Singing Aladdin's Theme to herself:: *ahem* Stop doing that! I'm losing my concentration! And while it's easy to do, I'm trying to conduct an interview! By the way, you started your blog for THE BEST reason EVER!

What is your favorite genre and/or genres? Currently I am really enjoying historical fiction, YA, and women's literature. It does change though!

Who is your favorite author? That is so tough.... there are authors I try not to miss like Jodi Piccoult and Harlan Coben... yet I read so much and enjoy so much I am not sure I could pick a fav.

What's your favorite book of all time? I have several favs but one I almost always recommend is Summerhouse by Jude Deveroux. Seriously - read it. And then let me know you read it and what you thought. The book is... magical.

I LOVE that description! So, I'm making a mental note!

Name & describe your blog features: I review books and have chats with authors. I enjoy doing giveaways, book related topics, and a few memes. Readers really seem to enjoy my Morning Menaderings which is basically me forst thing in the morning, "unplugged" - except for coffee! Morning Meanderings can be about my life, a book I found on another blog... anything.... I let the true me come out in those posts... they can be a bit crazy.

That's ANOTHER Reason I LOVE Ya'!

Tell my reader's a little bit about your review system Once I read a book I put my post up with the back cover info from the book, sometimes author info if I have it, and then I finish with my thoughts. I am very careful to not give away too much of the book... I want to create interest but not tell the story. I work to be fair and honest even if I did not enjoy the read. If I did not enjoy it I will let you know why. After the review I treat myself to 8 green M&M's and a diet pepsi.... j/k.... it's actually 9 green M&M's.

*giggles* I ONLY eat the Green ones.  I'm Lying...I'd Eat the ENTIRE package and let me tell you, COLOR is the LAST thing I think of while doing it! Yummy!

How is your blog unique from other blogs? I work hard to keep it current and a place people can go to read about not only the up and coming great books - but also some of the ones you may not have heard of. I read a wide variety of books from YA, mystery, fantasy, Christian and Christian fiction, memoirs and more so I think there is something for everyone.

Agreed!

How do you market your blog? What's your *Secret*?  I try to communicate on Book Blogs when I have time. I comment and visit others a lot, I use Twitter and occasionally Facebook.

All AWESOME Ways to Market!

Can you give us 3 tips about content? 1. I think good reviews are huge - I always tell new bloggers when they inquire about how to do a review to let the readers know how the book made you feel. That is huge for me. 2. The trick is to share about the book but do not give it away. I have read reviews where the reviewer gives away key points of the book that I would have enjoyed reading and discovering for myself.... dont do that! 3. Decide what your blog is going to be about and what you are hoping to get out of your blogging and make a list. Then decide how you are going to make that happen. Once you know your goals - stick to it and make them happen.

And what about 3 tips about blog promotion? 1. If you are looking for blog traffic - comment, comment, comment! When people comment on my blog and they have a blog as well, I always go visit them. A lot of bloggers do this. I make it a point to take time to read other blogs. I believe I have brought many loyal readers to my blog through comments and communication.... 2. If you do not Twitter... I reccomend you do. This is a great way to link to a giveaway you are having and build blogging relationships with other bloggers. 3. Stay current. You dont have to post several times a day - or even once a day.... but I would say try to stick to a minimum of 3 times a week. If your blog has the same post today as it did 2 weeks ago when someone reads it... readers may not come back.

Thank you SO much Sheila for being here at Park-Avenue Princess! The Pleasure has been ALL Mine!

Thank YOU Amy!

I will have a different blogger in the *spotlight* next week and if you'd like that to be YOU! Just drop me a note and I'll make sure it happens!

Sheila was SO happy to be in the Spotlight this week, that she's offering ONE Gift Certificate to Amazong worth $10.00 towards an item of your choice!  This Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY!  In order to Qualify, the only MUST is that you FOLLOW ME and you FOLLOW SHEILA!  After that, you're Giveaway instructions can be found below!

SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT GIVEAWAY!!

For an AMAZONG GIFT CARD!

ONE Of My LUCKY Readers Will WIN The Above Prize!!

Courtesy of Book Journey and Park-Avenue Princess
This Giveaway is INTERNATIONAL!

How Do you Win? It's Simple!

You must follow BOTH Blogs by hitting the FOLLOW button

that way we can see you and know you are one of our readers!

If you are NOT willing to follow this rule, and you have a Blogger Blog, you can't participate.But, how simple of a step IS that...plus, you'll get all the important updates)

All Entries MUST be in By Midnight October 30th Winner Drawn on HALLOWEEN!

Extra Entries

You MUST be a FOLLOWER with GOOGLE FRIEND CONNECT HERE ON BOTH BLOGS

(It's the Button Over On The Right Side Of the Blog You Should See Your Picture)

I Recommend Following On Twitter -It's NOT Required But I do Contests,

Including The CURRENT Contest that I'm Hosting For Author

E. Van Lowe,  Where You Can Win A Book A Day,

and Other Giveaways as well!

Plus, there are Major Announcements made on Twitter and not Here!

The Choice Is Yours!

+2 If you Subscribe by Mail

+2 If you Subscribe via Google Reader

+3 If you Rate Me On Blogged (see bottom of blog)

+5 If you TWEET About This Giveaway

+10 If you Follow Me @APrkAvePrincess on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)

+10 If you Follow Sheila @BookJourney on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)

+15 If you blog about this Giveaway in it's own post (or any others I'm having)

+20 If you Put My Button On Your Blog and Link Back

Try to Separate your entries one per post!

(+25 for each and every NEW follower you bring me)

They just have to mention it in their post!

As Always, Good Luck and HAVE FUN!!

Thank you ALL for Stopping By!

Without you, your comments and input, this blog

wouldn't be able to continue to grow!

Questions/Concerns? Please do not hesitate to Contact ME!

If you'd like to be FEATURED, Please Hit "Contact Me" or

Send me an email at IAmHiMaintenance@aol.com

and Preach to the Princess!!

KISSES & TOODLES! x0xx

And the Winners Are...

I have more WINNERS for you!  I NEVER Get Tired of Announcing Winners!  So, these FIVE Lucky Readers Won a Copy of "TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME".  This post was courtesy of Hachette Book Group, Cheryl (at Cheryl's Book Nook) and Me!  I had a wonderful time hosting Cheryl for the Saturday Spotlight and if you're interested, just drop me a quick message and I'll get back to you ASAP!

And the Winners Are...

Red Headed BookChild
BettyCD
Sam
April
Jo

I've e-mailed these five lovely ladies and they have 48 hours to get back to me! ALL Prizes were claimed last round! Great job!

CONGRATULATIONS!!

KISSES ~ XXX

Saturday Spotlight

These weeks just seem to be flying by!  It's already the end of September and the very first day of BANNED BOOKS WEEK! (Which I will be celebrating in a BIG Way) While I wish there wasn't a need for this week, I fully enjoy participating and showing my love for books banned or not!  I hope you'll each do something special for this very important week! 

I'm going to put BBW on hold for just a moment to introduce this weeks SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT. Who do I have for you this week? Read on and find out!

Will you PLEASE state your name "Just for the Record"?  Reggie

Your Online Alias?  ReggieWrites

Reggie, What did you Name Your Blog?  The Undercover Book Lover (Not Really)

And Where Can We Find "The Undercover Book Lover (Not Really) Online? *Pssst...We need the URL..*     http://theundercoverbooklover.blogspot.com

Go ahead...Go Look! It's a really great blog. Promise, I'll wait! (*Crosses Fingers Behind Her Back*)

Can you give us a quick bio about yourself?
Well, as many people know, I LOVE to read. Reading is basically my life. I also love to write and debate. I'm currently writing a novel titled "Maybe It's Fate". What not many people know about me is that I can do a split. It's one of my random talents. haha!

You're Right Reggie! I had NO idea! I'm totally picturing it and I now see you in a WHOLE different Light! (*giggles*)

Why did you start your blog?
I started my blog at the beginning of July 2009. So I'm still pretty new! Blogging opens up a completely different way for hunting for books. I LOVE it!

I have to agree fully! Another thing that you'll all agree with is that while Reggie's blog is NEW, it's a great addition to the book blogging community and there are some wonderful reviews to be found over at "The Undercover Book Lover (Not Really)".


What is your favorite genre and/or genres?
My favorite genres are YA and Adult fiction (not erotica). I love authors like Lisa Schroeder, Tom Clancy, and John Grisham.


Who is your favorite author?
Currently, my favorite author is Lisa Schroeder...but it changes almost every week because there are so many talented authors out there.


What's your favorite book of all time?
I hate this question...haha. Because I can only pick one. But today, I would have to say my favorite book is I Heart You, You Haunt Me. This book is so touching and poignant.

Name & describe your blog features:
Currently, since I'm pretty new, my blog features are:
Secret Agent Uncovered: Author Interviews - this is where I interview authors every week.

Blogger Undercover - this feature is solely focused on helping out bloggers by exposing their blogs more. I love helping fellow book lovers!

The Weekly Pen - this is where I post a few poems, short stories, or articles written by me.

Post-its - this is my favorite feature! I post up quotes from books that make me smile or that are noteworthy.

Right now, these are my only features. But soon (in the next few weeks), I'm going to be adding contests, and IMMs to my features.

I LOVE the current features and I'll be looking for your new additions!

Describe your review system:
This is the most difficult question. It gets a little bit complicated here. My review system is very complicated. Anyway here it goes:

Originality: /10
Ending: /10
Characters: /10
Plot: /10
My reaction/enjoyment: /10
Theme: /10
Imagery: /10
Setting: /5
Voice: /5
Style: /5
Tone: /5
Cover: /10
Total Score: /100

A+ = 95-100
A- = 90-94
A- = 85-89
B+ = 80-84
B = 75-79
B- = 70-74
C+ = 65-69
C = 60-64
C- = 55-59
D+ = 50-54
D = 45-49
D- = 40-44

I'm not going to add an 'F' to the list because no author ever deserves an 'F'.

As you can see, it's kind of a grading format so that people are able to know which books they might like, based on their preferences. For instance, if characters are more important to a reader than the plot, they can pick a book with the highest character rating.

How is your blog unique from other blogs?
My blog is unique because of the feature titles and the review system. I don't wanna copy other blogger's titles for their features, so I make up my own. It has to be related with my blog name: The Undercover Book Lover (Not Really).
As for the review system, I've never seen a more complicated one than mine...hehe

I LOVE that you make up your own ideas! When I first Started Park-Avenue Princess here on Blogger almost two years ago, I wanted everything to be centered around my title as well. I try to keep it the same to this day. (ie... Royal Reviews, My Rating Scale with Tiaras, and the photos that I use) So, I fully understand and can appreciate ALL of your hard work!

How about sharing a few marketing ideas?
Asking fellow bloggers for help is a good technique. Everyone is extremely nice...Like Amy over here! Thanks Amy!

You're MORE than Welcome Reggie! Anytime... *smiles*

Can you give us 3 tips about content?
1. Be an honest reviewer. Say what's on your mind. Just because other reviewers think it's a good book, doesn't mean you have to also!
2. Have FUN! If you don't like blogging, then don't start a blog. You have to enjoy it in order to do well consistently.
3. Have substance in your reviews. Reviews without substance are not so nice. It's less helpful to other readers.

THREE Tips to Live By!

Can you give us 3 tips about blog promotion?
1. Don't be afraid to contact other bloggers...some of them are sure to help!
2. Comment! Commenting not only helps your blog, but other bloggers out there always welcome comments!
3. Author Interviews. Try contacting different authors...ask them for reviews to post on your blog. Some of them will surely oblige!

Thank You Reggie! It's been a PLEASURE having you here at Park-Avenue Princess! Enjoy the Spotlight! You Deserve it!

I've got WINNERS coming up!!

x0xx - KISSES

Saturday Spotlight & Giveaway!!

I can't believe it! It's already Saturday and Book Blogger Appreciation Week has come and gone.  So, it's for that reason that I wanted to do a very special "Saturday Spotlight"!  This year's theme to BBAW was "Celebrate Books" and while I LOVE books and I was more than happy to celebrate them, I CHERISH the friendships I've made along the way MUCH more.  This blogger has been here for me in SO many ways and for that, I can't thank her enough.  Let me introduce this weeks "Saturday Spotlight" .

Something easy  but important to know to start with ...

What's your name? Katrina

And your online alias? Trin

The name of your blog is? Bloody Bad

And when we want to find your blog, what's the URL? http://trinsnook.blogspot.com/

How about a something about yourself? A short bio maybe?  I am a wife, a daughter, a student, a hard worker and an avid reader. I am from New England and I love it.

That was *Definitely short Trin and I too am from New England and Love it! What's NOT to love? Actually, we found out that we're just ONE state away! By the way, you forgot something REALLY important..."Friend".  : )

Why did you start your blog?

I started my blog on New years day. It started as a journal of sorts, then I was reading the Twilight series and I wanted to post about it. Trough that I found other book blogs and the 100+ challenge. I had always said I was a big reader and that challenge peeked my interest. Now, cliche as it sounds, my blog is a one year project to read 100 books.

What is your favorite genre and/or genres?

I love historical fiction,literary fiction, romance and I have learned to enjoy memoirs.

Who is your favorite author?

That is a tough one, can I choose 20?

*giggle* NO!

OK,  If I had to choose just one it would be, France Hodgson Burnett.

What's your favorite book of all time?

I love each book for it's own reasons. I do not have a favorite.

Name & describe your blog features:

I review every book that comes into my hands. I also hold contests for books and I have joined a few blog tours. I enjoy being a part of Memes like What are you reading Mondays, The Literary Road Trip and In my mailbox.

Describe your review system:

I base books on a 0-5 ratings scale. I never specified anything but if I loved it, it gets 5 stars, if I liked it, it gets 4 stars, if it was okay, it gets 3 stars. Anything lower than that and I probably put the book down.

How is your blog unique from other blogs?

I would like to think the design of my blog is unique. I work very hard on it. I also change my header monthly. I am really excited about September's header. Lastly, the blog is by me and has me all over it. No other blog has that (except maybe one.)

How do you market your blog?

Um. . .I don't think I do. I have contact with a few publishers but I have had trouble joining blog tours. I have sent emails and explained Bloody Bad but no one has responded. I don't let it get me down though. I figure "You don't want me to review a book or have an interview with your author, too bad for you because Bloody Bad is awesome" !

*giggle* Yes IT IS!! and SO is the Blogger!!

Can you give us 3 tips about content?

1. Be real, don't try to fancy it up.

2. Keep it relevant

3. Be honest, but kind

I couldn't agree more with number 3!

Can you give us 3 tips about blog promotion?

Nope, as I said, I stink at promotion. Maybe someone can give me tips on it?

 

I don't think you "stink" at anything! You're a wonderful reviewer and a talented blogger! Most of all a great friend!
Thank you for stoping by "Park-Avenue Princess" Trin!  I LOVED having you!

Now, for Trin's giveaway, she's going to giveaway a really special talent! If you go over to Trin's blog and look at her "button" on her sidebar...you'll see how Be-U-Tee-Full it is.  Go Quick! I'll wait . . .

You back? Good! That's what she's going to do for YOUR blog!  But, she's going to make one up especially for your blog!  Something that goes with your theme!  In order to participate you MUST be following BOTH of us!  Want to know how??  OK...read on.

SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT GIVEAWAY!!

ONE Of My LUCKY Readers Will WIN A Button Custom Made for Their Blog!!

Courtesy of Trin and Park-Avenue Princess (Trin's doing the actual work)

This Giveaway is open to EVERYONE. There is NO mail involved!

How Do you Win?

It's Simple!

You must follow BOTH Blogs by hitting the FOLLOW button

That way we can see you and know you are one of our readers!

If you are NOT willing to follow this rule, you can't participate.

(But, how simple of a step IS that...plus, you'll get all the important updates)

All Entries MUST be in By Midnight October 17th Winner Drawn on the 18th!

Extra Entries

I Recommend Following On Twitter - Because of the ROYAL GIVEAWAY

for the Sony E-Reader that is coming up! - It's NOT Required But I Will Be

Making Important Announcements There!

(Some exclusively for extra points that day)

The Choice Is Yours!

+2 If you Subscribe by Mail

+2 If you Subscribe via Google Reader

+3 If you TWEET About This Giveaway

+3 If you Rate Me On Blogged (see bottom of blog)

+10 If you Follow Me @APrkAvePrincess on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)

+10 If you Follow Trin @Faith42Love on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)

+15 If you blog about this Giveaway in it's own post (or any others I'm having)

+20 If you Put My Button On Your Blog and Link Back

Try to Separate your entries one per post!

(+15 for each and every NEW follower you bring me)

They just have to mention that they are NEW in their Post, along with YOUR name!

Good Luck and HAVE FUN!!

Thank you ALL for Stopping By!

Without you, your comments and input, this blog

wouldn't be able to continue to grow!

And we're now at 400!!

Questions/Concerns? Please do not hesitate to Contact ME!

If you'd like to be FEATURED in the "SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT"

Please either hit the "CONTACT ME" Button OR Email me directly

IAmHiMaintenance(at)aol(dot)com!

 Preach to the Princess, leave a Noble Note or a Royal Rambling!!

x0xx ~ KISSES

Saturday Spotlight & Ash Giveaway!

*Whew* This has been a tough week for me but I am SO glad it's the weekend! And because it's the weekend, you know what that means don't you? That's right! Saturday Spotlight!

For those of you that are just tuning in and don't know what Saturday Spotlight is, let me explain just a little! Saturday Spotlight is when I spotlight another blogger and their blog that they work SO hard on, right here on MY blog! If you would be interested in a Saturday Spotlight,PLEASE contact me and I'd be happy to help! (*Note: You do NOT have to be a new blogger)

Enough chit-chat (Something I'm SOOOOO good at) and without further hesitation let me introduce this week's blogger!


Please tell my readers, the audience, and fans your name. Kristen!

What's Your Online Alias? bookgoil

What Did You Name Your Blog? Bookworming in the 21st Century

And Where Can We Find You On The Web? http://www.bookworminginthe21stcentury.com/

Can you give us a quick bio about yourself?
I'm a 24 year old elementary school librarian. I just started that job this year and I'm really loving it. I love reading and especially reading Young Adult books. I've worked in a public library and a college library before as well - can you tell I like being surrounded by books? I'm getting married on October 24th this year to the man I love. He also likes to read - but mainly adult sci-fi and fantasy. (I'm trying to convince him to do some guest reviews on my blog right now.) No pets, but we want a dog eventually.

What's on your nightstand right now?
Right now, Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater is on my nightstand - being neglected for my review books, but I'm slowly letting myself read it. :)

Why did you start your blog?
I started my blog on June 9th of this year. So I've only been blogging about 3 months now.

What is your favorite genre and/or genres?
I love Young Adult books and really tend to read fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal, and historical fiction.

Who is your favorite author?
I have a ton.. but Francesca Lia Block really can't be beat. I've read every single one of her books.

What's your favorite book of all time?
That's a tough one. Probably Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens - the ultimate action-adventure book.

What book do you wish you could read all over again for the first time?
The Hunger Games - it was such a stunning read. (*ahem* Please see contest on my blog this month...)

Have you ever "Faked It"? Get your minds out of the gutter! I meant it as in pretending to have read a book but not? For school possibly?
Definitely.. for school mostly. I never got through Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad and I gave up on Into the Wild.

Name & describe your blog features:
Well, I review books first off. I participate in a ton of memes, a few of which I created. What are you reading Mondays, Teaser Tuesdays, Waiting on Wednesday, Link a Contest Thursday (created myself!), Friday Finds, and Saturday and Sunday Spotlights (created by myself as well..).

My Link a Contest Thursdays are a great way to find out about contests as well as letting other bloggers give their contests some promotion. It's also easy to manage because I use Mr. Linky. (Love this one!)

I started Saturday and Sunday Spotlights because I LOVE finding new blogs. Especially less known ones. So, I figured I'd start with Saturday Spotlights and then it exploded into a ton of interested bloggers and I made it a weekend special - Saturday AND Sunday Spotlights.

Describe your review system: I actually need to revise my review system a bit. I have a 5 rose system, but I rarely get down to 3. Right now, it's basically running like this:
5 Roses: Loved or enjoyed the book, highly recommended
4 Roses: Some flaws, but good read
3 Roses: I didn't like it, but someone else might.
2 Roses: Not sure how I got through that book - *cough*Skimming*cough*
1 Rose: Gave up. Completely.

How is your blog unique from other blogs?
I am an update-a-holic. I love posting and I love getting the word out there about other things going on in the blogging community - such as contests, cool sites, and more. I try to read and review promptly and I'm always trying to "fix-up" my blog. I like to show my enthusiasm on my blog and hope that shows through on my posts. I'm probably the calmest person around, so I don't get worked up about much and there's rarely anything negative written on my blog.

How do you market your blog?
Well, I run a lot of contests and I use twitter a TON. I also love being interviewed, note yet another interview... I finally created a button that people can use. But, I really think my main marketing strategy is friendliness. I try to get chatting with other bloggers, authors, etc. and so far it seems to have worked. (Note the crazy amount of followers I have... still don't know where they all came from *swears blogger is broken*). No...I think they're just attracted to your "cuteness"...wait? IS Blogger Broken? *Looks Around*

Anyway...Back to the "Spotlight"

Can you give us 3 tips about content?
1. Be honest when reviewing, but make sure you add something good in there as well.

2. Proofread - I know, I hate doing it too - but typos are painful to read and will make people less likely to follow you.

3.Make sure you're saying something meaningful - not just "it was good".

How about 3 tips to help blog promotion?
1. If you can, run a contest. It can be for homemade bookmarks or something small if you can't afford books or other types of giveaways.

2. Put yourself out there - find some blog lists like the YA Blogosphere and get yourself listed so people can find your blog.

3. Comment, comment, comment. I know whenever I see a new name, I have to check out who it is. So keep commenting and you'll find some new blogging friends following you.

LOVED your Answers! Thank you for Visiting "Park-Avenue Princess" Kristen! It's always a Pleasure!

Kristen is sweet enough to offer YOU a GIVEAWAY. She has a copy of "ASH" by Malinda Lo! So, if you'd like to win. And I *KNOW* you do! Please follow the instructions Below!

SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT GIVEAWAY!!

ONE Of My LUCKY Readers Will WIN A Copy Of ASH For Their Very Own!!
Courtesy of BookGoil and Park-Avenue Princess
You MUST Reside in the U.S. or Canada ONLY
Also, You MUST Have a Street Address that You Can Give Me IF You Win
NO P.O. Boxes Please!

How Do you Win?

It's Simple!
You must follow BOTH Blogs by hitting the FOLLOW button
that way we can see you and know you are one of our readers!
If you are NOT willing to follow this rule, you can't participate.
(But, how simple of a step IS that...plus, you'll get all the important updates)

All Entries MUST be in By Midnight October 10th Winner Drawn on the 11th!

Extra Entries

You MUST be a FOLLOWER with GOOGLE FRIEND CONNECT HERE ON BOTH BLOG
(It's the Button Over On The Right Side Of the Blog You Should See Your Picture)
I Recommend Following On Twitter -It's NOT Required But I do Contests
and Giveaways There Plus Major Announcements!


The Choice Is Yours!

+2 If you Subscribe by Mail
+2 If you Subscribe via Google Reader
+3 If you TWEET About This Giveaway

+3 If you Rate Me On Blogged (see bottom of blog)

+10 If you Follow Me @APrkAvePrincess on TWITTER! (Leave @TwitterName)
+10 If you Follow Kristen @BookGoil on TWITTER!
+10 If you blog about this Giveaway in it's own post (or any others I'm having)
+20 If you Put My Button On Your Blog and Link Back

Try to Separate your entries one per post!

(+15 for each and every NEW follower you bring me)
They just have to mention it in their post!

Good Luck and HAVE FUN!!
Thank you ALL for Stopping By!
Without you, your comments and input, this blog
wouldn't be able to continue to grow!

Questions/Concerns? Please do not hesitate to Contact ME!
If you'd like to be FEATURED, Please Hit "Contact Me" or

Send me an email at IAmHiMaintenance@aol.com

and Preach to the Princess!!

x0xx ~ KISSES

*Saturday Spotlight ~ Meet Jessica*

Yes, I DO realize it's now SUNDAY! Sorry, I wasn't feeling well yesterday and didn't get around to posting this weeks "Saturday...err Sunday Spotlight" (name change only pertains to this week)... Anyway, I have a NEW Book Blogger for you this week and her name is JESSICA!

Let's find out a *Little Bit* more about Jessica and her book blog!

What's your Name (the one on your birth certificate)? Jessica

And your Alias (aka) ? Jess

Jess...what's your blog's name? Cover to Cover: One Twenty-Something’s Journey to Writing (and finishing) a Novel

*Cute Name...What's the URL for people that want to visit both you and your blog? http://jessicalawlor.blogspot.com/

Can you give us a quick bio about yourself? I’m Jess and I’m a twenty-one public relations student in Philadelphia. I’ve loved to read and write for as long as I can remember, and it’s always been my goal to publish a novel. In my free time, I love to read, write, attempt to cook, blog, and hang out with my friends. I absolutely love traveling and studied abroad in Rome this past summer.

Rome? How awesome! This Princess would love to leave the Castle... *sigh* But, there's just too much to do here!!

Why did you start your blog? I started my blog for 2 main reasons. *And those would be*?

1. I love to read, and am always looking for book suggestions. I did a few searches and found this whole world of book review blogs that I never knew existed. I decided I wanted an outlet to discuss the books I love.

2. It’s always been my goal to write a novel, but I can’t seem to make myself sit down and write. I figured creating a blog where I could discuss the process and converse with other bloggers would give me the inspiration I needed to get started.

What is your favorite genre and/or genres? I love chick lit. and young adult fiction.

Who is your favorite author? My favorite author is a toss-up between Sophie Kinsella and Jennifer Weiner. I love them both.

What's your favorite book of all time? My favorite book of all time is definitely Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner. It’s the perfect story of a broken girl who finds her way to independence and happiness.

Would you Please name & describe your blog features: Book reviews, writing tips, my writing journey, author interviews (hopefully soon!), book news, etc.

How about your review system: The system is on a scale from 1-5, 1 being the worst and 5 being the best.

How is your blog unique from other blogs? My blog is unique because along with reviewing books, I’m going to be discussing my own journey to writing a novel. It’s the best of both worlds.

How do you market your blog? My blog is fairly new, but so far I’ve joined Shelfari, and I’ve been commenting on other book review blogs.

Can you give us 3 tips about content? I think posting at least once a day is key. Find your own voice that makes you, you. Don’t just post reviews every day, mix it up with book news and author interviews.

Can you give us 3 tips about blog promotion? Comment, comment, comment…honestly, it’s the best way to find new readers. Bloggers appreciate when others read and enjoy their content, so let those bloggers know and hopefully they will check you out!

*Hopefully, they will!!* Thanks for being here Jessica and introducing yourself to the book blogging community!!

If YOU Would Like YOUR Blog Here In the Spotlight...

All you have to do is "Contact ME" and I'll Get Right Back To You

And Let You Know How!!

Kisses - XXX