Sky Purington's Blog, page 47

Winter Blog Festival. Things HEAT up with Rynne Raines' REFECTIONS!

Welcome! I hope that you had a wonderful weekend. It's almost Valentine's Day so you've come to the perfect spot. Things are steaming up around here. A Writer's Mind's, .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL continues today with talented author, Rynne Raines. Sit back, relax and read about some fantastic and very affordable stories.
Reflections (paranormal romance) on sale now for only 99 cents at Amazon and Smashwords

Blurb

What is an untamable rake to do after being cursed to suffer a fate unknown to man; to experience solitude in the deepest sense of the word? Watch and wait.

As a silent observer in a world he is no longer part of, Rykel Deveau has entertained himself by becoming engrossed in the lives of the living. Society has changed in two hundred years—more importantly, women have changed.

Now, over two centuries later, Rykel finds himself forced to share his living quarters with the most unusual female he has ever come across, sensual artist, Danica Lovel. Between the woman's hideous tattered bathrobe and unsightly pink slippers, he should be appalled, yet bizarrely, he finds himself strongly drawn to her. He wants her. The problem is, she has no idea he exists.

The Awakening on sale now for only 99 cents at Amazon and Smashwords
Blurb
Torn between fantasy and reality, Natalie Kendrick wakes each morning on fire, haunted by passionate dreams of Alexander, the nineteenth century gentleman she believes saved her life fifteen years ago. But when living outside the erotic dream world they share becomes unbearable, she seeks the help of a dream analyst. The solution seems simple: dream suppressants. But can Natalie bring herself to forever shut out the only man she has ever loved--from her head, her life and her heart?

Excerpt

Alexander's hands were like velvet cuffs binding Natalie's wrists above her head. Gripping a fistful of her auburn curls, he imprisoned her beneath his weight. With the heat in his eyes nearly melting her, she writhed beneath him in false protest.

"Tell me what you desire, Natalie," he said, his warm breath carressing her cheek.

Her head whipped from side to side as she tried to fight the intollerable urges his lust-filled teasing brought forth within her. Nearly breathless, she stared back at him. "You, I desire you." Only he had the power to relieve her anguish, her mental and physical torment. Triumph flickered in his gaze and a wicked smile plagued his lips.

"As you wish, my lady," he said in that sultry, deep voice that made her heartbeat quicken.

Fiercely he ravished her mouth while easing a knee steadily forward, parting her bare thighs. His cool slacks brushed her searing flesh, causing her to shiver with delight. Needing more than ever for him to satisfy her, she surrendered and let him venture further until he touched the tender ache between her open, defenseless legs.

Gasping, Natalie shot straight up in her bed and gripped her chest where beneath her heart pounded in quick, violent pulses. Her eyes flickered back and forth as she scanned her bedroom.

Empty.

Tears welled in her eyes. She covered her face with her hands and took a shuddering breath. The intensity of these dreams was out of control and the pain she felt waking alone each morning was becoming unbearable. Surely, the vividness of the dreams and the resulting lonely ache would soon drive her insane. There had to be someone—anyone—who could tell her what her dreams meant.

Visit Rynne Raines all over the web: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Blog

Winter Blog Festival. Jean Adams' ETERNAL HEARTS.

Welcome to A Writer's Mind's, .99 CENTS EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL. For those of you unfamiliar, this event is all about letting you know about some fantastic and very affordable books. Today it's my pleasure to welcome over author Jean Adams.
Award-winning romance author, Jean Adams, wanted to be the next Agatha Christie but it didn't quite work out that way. She was introduced to romance and it was love at first read. Now she is addicted to storytelling. Ancient Egypt is her passion, running a close second to writing. What better solution than to join the two. She is working on a historical trilogy set during those times, a good excuse for more research.

Jean has another novel in this festival. Set in Cornwall, renowned for its storytellers, it's about one woman's search for a myth. She spent her formative years in Cornwall among the stories and legends of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

She likes dark, mysterious heroes and strong heroines, who are their perfect match. They are soul mates, and their love for each the goes soul deep.

Jean is the founder of Romance Writers of New Zealand.

ETERNAL HEARTS - ancient Egyptian time travel

BLURB

She found the love of her life, 3000 years too late.

When Alexandra Kelly returns a broad collar to Egypt she is swept through a time portal into a breathtaking, yet terrifying journey to a land of majesty and splendour, the land of the pharaohs.

Death is Lord Khafra's fate if he embarks upon his dangerous quest. Can Alex's arrival disrupt his plans and save him from his fiery date with death?

Together they find love and face terrible danger and hardship but the sexy charioteer could make any woman believe the gods were smiling on her.

But at the next full moon Alex must leave Egypt to return to the 21st century and Khafra will have been dead for many centuries.

EXCERPT

Why was he looking at her as though he wanted to ravish her where she stood? No, she didn't want to think about that. He was a large man and judging by those thick muscles, very strong. And what gave men the right to such sinfully long eyelashes? She gathered her wandering thoughts. "I know this is a joke, even though I don't understand it, but it's starting to wear thin. Please, tell me where I am."

"You are in Kemet, in Egypt. And this is my home.

"She wanted to scream. "I know I'm in Egypt! I flew in yesterday." Her voice rose in frustration. Couldn't he stop teasing? Her head hurt too much for stupid games.

He shifted and she wondered what was on his mind. Calm down, Alex. Don't antagonize him. You don't know what he's capable of.

Drawing in a long, deep breath she counted to three and began again. "Okay. If you want to play games, I have some questions."

He sat up and the towel slipped further exposing a longer length of perfectly muscled thigh, which he made no attempt to cover. "I'm sure you will have many."

That was something anyway. Maybe he was ready to cooperate. She dragged her gaze back to his face and drew in a deep breath. "What dynasty am I—? What dynasty did I land in?"

"Dynasty?" He frowned and offered her that knockout smile again. "Ah, of course. This is how the years come to be known to you. Do you mean in whose reign are we?"

Deep breath, Alex. "Whatever. In whose reign are we?"

"Amunhotep the Fourth, may he live forever." He placed his hand over his heart. "It is the fifth year of his reign."

Her mouth fell open. Now she knew for certain this was a joke. "You're kidding, right?"

Dark eyebrows lifted in question. "Kidding?"

She blew out an angry breath. "Playing me for a fool."

His broad shoulders lifted in a casual shrug and he moved his leg one more time. Luckily the towel didn't move with it. "Why would I do this?"

Amunhotep IV, who had changed his name to Akhenaten, just happened to be the husband of Nefertiti. It was a coincidence Alex couldn't overlook. But her mind started wandering down a new track. Maybe this is a ransom attempt.

Purchase Eternal Hearts at AMAZON.

BEATS A WILD HEART
BLURB
In the ancient Celtic land of Cornwall, she searched for a myth--and found truth. To prove she's got what it takes to make it in the male-dominated world of wildlife photography, Emma sets herself an impossible task--to find the Beast of Bodmin Moor. She travels from the New World to her mother's ancient Celtic land of Cornwall determined to prove that the fabled creature exists and to be the only one to capture it on film.
He came out of the mist…Seth Trevelyan wants to be left alone to get on with his life's work. He's also on a one-man crusade--to save the life of the black leopard, known as the Beast of Bodmin Moor. When, he finds a damsel in distress, like a knight of old he gives her sanctuary, placing the leopard and his heart, in danger.
EXCERPT
In the utter silence of the moorland night, another sound caught her attention; the very familiar sound of Seth's voice. Since no others came back in reply, she deduced he must be talking on his mobile phone, or to himself. She couldn't hear the words, but they sounded soft, coaxing. Almost like a lover.

By the time Emma reached the window Seth had stopped talking…

Then she saw it. Sleek and black, its coat bore an eerie silvery sheen in the moonlight. She gasped and felt her eyes physically widen.

A black leopard.

Of course! The sawing sound was one of the noises leopards made.

Fighting the effects of the tablets, she glanced quickly across to the nightstand where her camera lay. It was too far to stretch. Besides it was still empty. By the time she'd hobbled over there, reloaded and got back, the creature would be gone.

It was so beautiful she wanted to cry. All muscle and sinew, it was terrifying in its raw power. Blinking rapidly, Emma cleared the lump in her throat and gave the creature a watery smile. Then the animal slipped into the shadows and was gone, back to the moor. Even the drugs making her drowsy couldn't temper her excitement. It was real; she had seen it.

Seth was down there! Shaking her head, Emma tried to clear the gathering fog. Hadn't he seen the leopard? If he had, all hell would have broken loose. The animal was probably looking for food.

What if they came face to face? It could attack him and she would be useless to help him on these crutches, a leg that wouldn't support her and a mind muddled by drugs.

Although barely able to stay awake, Emma forced herself to scan the shadows one more time, hoping for another glimpse of the panther, but she knew it had gone. A sudden shiver made her realize how low the temperature had dropped. She closed the window and made her way back to bed.

Just before sleep claimed her, Emma smiled into the darkness. What she'd seen tonight was no figment of an overactive imagination. Even though the pills had worked quickly, her drugged brain knew one truth.

Tonight, she had seen the Beast of Bodmin Moor.

Purchase Beats A Wild Heart at AMAZON.

Visit Jean Adams' Website.

Winter Blog Festival! Eliza Knight's, MEN OF THE SEA Anthology

Welcome to A Writer's Mind's .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER FESTIVAL! Today it's my pleasure to welcome over the very talented, Eliza Knight. She'll be sharing her MEN OF THE SEA Anthology , a Regency romance series including: Her Captain Returns, Her Captain Surrenders, Her Captain Dares All.


Eliza Knight is the multi-published, award-winning author of sizzling historical romance and erotic romance. While not reading, writing or researching for her latest book, she chases after her three children. In her spare time (if there is such a thing…) she likes daydreaming, wine-tasting, traveling, hiking, staring at the stars, watching movies, shopping and visiting with family and friends. She lives atop a small mountain, and enjoys cold winter nights when she can curl up in front of a roaring fire with her own knight in shining armor. Visit Eliza at her Website or her historical blog, History Undressed, which was recently mentioned in a feature article in The Wall Street Journal. 

MEN OF THE SEA Anthology

Back by popular demand! The Men of the Sea series--three Regency novellas in one (~90,000 words).

HER CAPTAIN RETURNS

How could anything considered sinful feel so good?

That is what Miss Corinne Claymore asked herself as she gave into the titillating suggestions of Captain Ryder Montgomery. Corinne never knew what she was getting into with her innocent flirtations with Ryder. Scandal ensues as they are discovered in an amorous embrace in the gardens at Lady Covington's ball. Corinne finds herself not only married to Ryder, but abandoned. A short letter tells her he will be gone for several years.

Eight years pass while Ryder is on a secret mission for the Prince Regent. He only returns at hearing the news of his brother's death, making him the new Earl of Stafford. His love and passion for Corinne have not waned. In fact, remembering their nights of pleasure has been the only thing that's kept him sane on his dangerous journey. But she has changed much, filled now with bitterness and the fear of being deserted again. Ryder must woo her back to him and soothe her fears, all while discovering how his brother died and who may be at fault.

It will be a treacherous adventure, but one consumed with building trust and love while enjoying carnal pleasures.

HER CAPTAIN SURRENDERS

Captain Nathaniel Cruise has a job to do. But what happens when a beautiful woman tempts him to turn his eye from his duties to pursue more…pleasurable entertainments? Not only that, the woman has a wit and intelligence that rivals his own and he finds himself falling deeper and harder for her.

Lady Juliette Blackburn, knows what she wants, and she wants Captain Cruise. A rich widow in her own right, she's decided to take her love life in her own hands. However, at every turn the man of her dreams is running away from her. She'll have to keep up a subtle chase to discreetly reel him in.

Despite their mutual attraction something darker is pulling them together. A rogue former lover of Juliette's is the main suspect in Nathaniel's investigation, and now he's threatening both their livelihoods. Together they'll fight the villain and perhaps on the way Nathaniel and Juliette will surrender to love.

HER CAPTAIN DARES ALL

Pursued by kidnappers, Lady Tessa Woodward is running for her life. When handsome Captain Jeremy Williams comes to her rescue in the backstreets of Paris, she persuades him to help her escape France and return to her home in England.

Captain Jeremy Williams is captivated by Lady Tessa's fiery nature and agrees to give her passage aboard his ship. Once on board, his desire grows and soon reveals a sensual side to the woman he can't deny. But when danger threatens his lady, will the captain dare all to save her?

REVIEWS

Seriously Reviewed – "A wonderfully romantic story. This is not the first book of Ms Knight's that I have had the pleasure to read and I must admit that it will not be the last. The intoxicating way she pens her captain's is a refreshing taste and definitely tempting. Ruggedly handsome men born for the sea. Ladies bred for society. I love the way Ms Knight brings these two different worlds together and crafts love stories that will leave the reader breathless. *Snaps* Ms Knight on another job well done :)"

Rebecca Lynn @ Enduring Romance – "I enjoy these spicy Regency novels that Eliza Knight writes. I like her characters, I like the plot lines, I like the resolutions. I think she writes relationships very well, and she is a master of sexual tension. I thoroughly recommend these Men of the Sea books."

Excerpt from Her Captain Returns:

London, England 1812

"Are you enjoying Lady Covington's ball?" Captain Montgomery—the rogue—asked, his warm breath bathing her in sinful delight.

Corinne could not have been more thrilled for the way her evening was going. She stared up into the beautiful hazel eyes of the man who twirled her about the dance floor. Captain Ryder Montgomery was one of the most handsome men she'd ever met. She was the lucky lady who'd claimed his affections on this and several prior evenings. At each function she attended this season, he'd been there, dancing with her, flirting with her. Her hopes were high that he would offer her marriage soon. Corinne could feel her skin beginning to warm and hoped her blush wasn't showing.

"Yes, I am having a most enjoyable time."

She lowered her eyes for a moment, and then let them rise so she could again admire Ryder's strong chiseled features, softened by the dimple in his chin, and the golden locks tapering to the bottom of his neck. Corinne resisted the urge to comb her fingers through his hair to feel just how soft it was.

"You are quite an accomplished dancer, Miss Corinne." His breath was sweet sin against her neck as he whispered in her ear. She stifled a moan threatening to escape.

Ryder brought out a side of her she didn't know existed. A quick peek around the room indicated her parents were not watching. She would be mortified if they saw his intimate whisper. No doubt someone would inform them, but she could always deny it then. She prayed he would propose soon; she didn't know how much of his gentle torture she could take.

"Why, thank you, Captain. You have been an ex-cellent dancing partner. I fear that with the other gentleman, I seem to step on their toes, sending the rest of my dance partners scattering."

Ryder's laugh was like liquid gold. He made it clear he found her amusing in an affectionate way, and she only hoped she could continue to pique his interest. As he laughed with her, his hold on her tightened slightly, and she loved the way his tall, sinewy body seemed to fit perfectly with hers.

His fingers, resting lightly on her hips, began to draw small circles, before he twirled her about. A lurch of excitement brewed within her. She knew just how naughty it was for him to touch her this way…next time she would politely remove his affa-ble digits. Although she was sure a proposal would be coming soon, it was most unseemly for her to al-low such liberties.

"Well, you have certainly won my confidence in your abilities. I shall warn all others that to dance with you would be hazardous to their health." His eyes twinkled as he gazed directly into hers. "Then I can be sure I have you all to myself."

Corinne found it impossible not to return his disarming smile. If he asked her to walk through the garden mazes right now, she would, and she'd entertain any improper acts he had in mind.

His hand moved from her hip to the small of her back. The very air around her seemed electrified, and the small sensual movements of his fingertips sent shocks through her spine. She really should make him stop…

"Captain Montgomery, you flatter me." Her words came out breathlessly, and she chewed her lip, stifling another moan his touch elicited.

"I wish to do more than flatter you." There was an invitation in the depths of his eyes.

Purchase Links: Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Visit Eliza's Website

Twitter: @ElizaKnight

Find Eliza on Facebook

Winter Blog Festival. Catherine Bybee's, WIFE BY WEDNESDAY

Happy Monday! I hope you had a super weekend. In case you're joining me for the first time, my .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL is underway. It's all about sharing fabulous authors who are offering affordable reads. Today it's my pleasure to welcome over talented author, Catherine Bybee.

USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author Catherine Bybee has been addicted to romance since her teens. After spending a decade of her life working as an RN in urban emergency rooms, Catherine is now dedicated to writing happily-ever-afters for the world to love. Catherine is married and raising two sons in Southern California. She loves hearing from her readers so feel free to visit her at: www.catherinebybee.com.

#1 Amazon Bestseller in Romance
#4 Wall Street Journal Bestseller

Wife by Wednesday ~ Priced at $0.99

A Contemporary Romance with a dash of humor and a whole lotta sexy…

Blake Harrison: Rich, titled, and charming… And in need of a wife by Wednesday so he turns to Sam Elliot who isn't the business man he expected. Instead, Blake is faced with Samantha Elliot, engaging and spunky with a voice men call 900 numbers to hear.

Samantha Elliot: Owner of Alliance, her matchmaking firm, and not on the marital menu... That is until Blake offers her ten million dollars for a one-year contract. All she needs to do is keep her attraction to her husband to herself and avoid his bed. But Blake's toe-curling kisses and charm prove too difficult to combat. Now she needs to protect her heart so she can walk away when their mercenary life together is over.

Excerpt:

"Kissing me is wrong?"

"Yes," she blurted out. "I mean, no."

He chuckled. "Which is it?"

"Ugh. What if I choke? What if I don't look convincing?" What if she screwed up and gave the camera exactly what they wanted and Blake lost his inheritance?

Blake removed one hand from the steering wheel and placed it over her cold ones. "Samantha?"

"Yes."

"Relax. Let me take charge here."

She shook her head. "I'm not used to men taking charge in my life."

"I know that. But you can trust me."

She wanted to trust him. But her hands shook as they pulled into her driveway. He removed the key from the ignition and shifted in his seat. "Let's just go inside and start packing."

"Are you going to kiss me the minute we're inside?" God, she had to know… so she could prepare herself.

Blake leaned forward and removed his sunglasses. "Come here," he whispered, staring at her lips.

She inched forward, thinking he wanted to whisper something important.

Instead, he leaned over the seat and placed his lips softly on hers. The heat was instant and sizzled all the way to her toes. Her eyes fluttered shut as she eased into his kiss. Then he moved away. "Kissing will be the easy part," he said over her opened lips. "Pulling back will prove much harder."

Purchase your copy of Wife by Wednesday on Amazon, Smashwords and Barnes & Noble.

Check out Catherine's other titles at her Website.

Follow Catherine on Twitter @catherinebybee

Find Catherine on Facebook: Catherine Bybee Romance Author

Goodreads: Catherine Bybee

Blog: catherinebybee.blogspot.com  

Like PRINT? Me too. The MacLomain Series goes Old School!

In this day and age of digital books I still relish print books and for that reason alone I'm making my MacLomain Series available in PRINT at the lowest prices I could manage. Going to print with these is 100% for my readers. I want you to have something you can add to your bookshelves. Something you can flip through and smell that wonderful book smell (you know what I'm talking about) That certain something that eReaders will never offer.

Designed by the fabulous Tamra Westberry, these covers are stunning from front to spine to back. Six by nine, they're the size of hardcovers! Each one is glistening, glossy and over 320 pages long with easy-to-read font. Forgive my cell phone picture. It doesn't capture the colors nearly as striking as they are!




 BUY NOW

BUY NOW

BUY NOW
Enjoy the remainder of your weekend! See you tomorrow when A Writer's Mind, .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER FESTIVAL continues.
Cheers,~Sky

Winter Blog Festival! Skhye Moncrief's SWORDSONG.

Welcome! It's hard to believe that it's already February. This month is chock full of incredible authors sharing their affordable reads in my .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL. Today it's my pleasure to welcome over talented romance author, Skhye Moncrief. She'll be sharing two novels from her Time Guardians series.
SWORDSONG...
Genre: Celtic Time-travel Fantasy Romance

Heat Level: Spicy

Length: full-length novel -- 93K words, 375pp in print

He's arrived to help her create the perfect bride.

He's stuck in present-day Scotland with a bent time-travel key only she, a swordsmith, can repair. Duty requires he return to his time. His ticket home relies on a lonely woman haunted by more than apparitions. Her track record with men keeps her at a distance. And ghostly events keep pushing them closer together. Earning her trust will require the kind of patience only a valiant time guardian learns during his twenty years of apprenticeship. If time-travel duty, romance, and a bit of magic don't help them realize their destiny resonates in mysterious fairy SWORDSONG, all known history could change.

Excerpt:

"No," Katie yelled and sprang into motion, lunging for the doorway.

Gods' jest. The lass pushed something over her head. Something invisible.

She flew back toward me and fell at my boots, arms scrabbling behind her for a handhold like the jointed legs of a crab.

Guinevere screeched an ear-piercing wail of a banshee.

If the ceilings held, it would be miraculous. I grabbed beneath Katie's arms and hoisted her upward as the blaring female's cacophony ricocheted off the stone walls.

I searched Katie's disturbed blue gaze focused on the doorway. "What is it?"

She shoved her heels around, trying to regain her footing. "Stop laughing, you bastard," she snarled.

Not at me. There has to be an intruder. Or spirit. In the empty doorway.

A sudden quiet moment consumed the mind-numbing reality of the dark subterranean world.

"No," Katie screeched, reached out, seemingly blocking a blow with her forearm.

What did she see?

"What is it, Katie?" Pam shouted.

Katie had to stop reacting. Trick the Seer. If she didn't look though, she won't react to the spirit. I grabbed the blonde's stiff shoulders and crushed her gaze into my chest. "There's naught there, lass."

Katie squirmed, the hardness of her head fighting my grip. "He's got a knife."

And that would matter? I scanned the doorway for a person or a hint of a glinting dirk.

Why would I expect to suddenly see the apparition? The Seer had only come for Katie.

She stilled in my arms.

Yet, her thundering heart hammered. I could try to explain. Ease her fears. But a woman of her time isn't ready to believe in Post-Modern alchemical notions. Not with Truth hounding her in an astral projection.

The air warmed about us.

Probably more the heat from the fear in the chamber than an actual rise in temperature. But a rise in temperature would note the visitation's end. "Is he gone?" I scanned the doorway.

"I couldn't possibly know. I can't see," she droned into my shirt.

Of course she can't. But better to hang onto her with a spirit afoot given her reaction. I loosened my hold enough to permit her to peer over her shoulder.

Katie scanned the whole room where I held her.

Probably uncertain whether to sigh or grab a weapon.

"He's gone," she announced.

The other females descended upon us. Their three crowns bobbed beneath my chin as the other maidens's arms grabbed Katie.

"What was it?" Guinevere simpered.

"Yes, tell us what you saw," Pam commanded.

Out of the three, the masculine maiden had the most sensible way about her. All business. Very much a Brother in behavior.

"A large man in big black boots," Katie gasped. "He laughed at us, shaking a knife over his shoulder. He was going to kill us."

"I didn't see him," Guinevere finally managed to speak plainly.

As if any of us had. "None of us did." I maintained my hold on the frightened blonde maiden.

Katie shot me a bitter scowl.

Not good. Her pinched glare of betrayal isn't the prize I expected. I'd have to salvage the little friendship we had, to gain access to her uncle's foundry. "I'm not saying you didn't, lass."

Buy On Kindle

HE OF THE FIERY SWORD

Genre: Celtick Time-travel Fantasy Romance

Heat Level: Spicy

Length: Full-length novel -- 85K words, 340pp in print

He, Arthur, is a reflection of luck, an abomination. He can feel the love, the pain, the sorrow, and the joy of all the ages. If he doesn't save the Druid he is sent to find, all known history could change. Some things are worth dying for. But first a man must live.

Arthur didn't count on becoming human. And now the fairies want him to break dragon law... He never expected his charge to push him to the edge of reason. But a man must live before becoming king.

Fear not. The fairies have a plan.

Trust not the fairies.

Druids wed one soul for eternity to protect the integrity of the timeline. Druid Solas's soul mate was taken from her. Now, an 11th Century Irish bishop stalks her to serve as his mistress. She has nothing left yet everything to live for in creating the historical maps she was sent through time to make. She will break time-travel Code if she submits to another man by allowing even one paradoxical child to muddy history. Then Arthur arrives to save her. He is anything but a time guardian. And a fairy tells her to help him. To ignore a god's instruction could prove detrimental. Yet, every time guardian knows believing the Gods is wielding a double-edged sword. Since it is forbidden for Druids to wield weapons, her future relies on He of the Fiery Sword.

King Arthur is born.

Buy On Kindle

Learn more about Skhye at her Website.

Winter Blog Festival. Jennifer Jakes' TWICE IN A LIFETIME.

Welcome to A Writer's Mind's, 99. CENT WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL. Today it's my pleasure to welcome over talented author, Jennifer Jakes.

About the Author

After trying several careers—everything from a beautician to a dump truck driver—Jennifer finally returned to her first love, writing. Maybe it was all those Clint Eastwood movies she watched growing up, but in her opinion there is no better read than a steamy western historical.

Married to her very own hero, she lives on fifteen acres along with two beautiful daughters, three spoiled cats, three hyper dogs and one fat rabbit.

During the summer she does Civil War re-enacting and has found it a great research tool, not to mention she has continued appreciation for her microwave and hot water heater.

Jennifer is graciously giving away an Ecopy of TWICE IN A LIFETIME to one lucky commenter!

BLURB – TWICE IN A LIFETIME

Be Careful What You Wish For. . .

No-nonsense stuntwoman Isabella Douglas will do anything to stop an unwanted divorce and reclaim the happy life she had, even allow her old friend to concoct a magical spell to turn back time. But when the spell goes awry, Izzy finds herself trapped aboard a 1768 Caribbean pirate ship with a captain who's a dead ringer for her sexy as sin husband, Ian. Convinced he's playing a cruel joke, she's furious – until she realizes he doesn't know her or believe they're married.

Captain Ian Douglas does not have time to deal with an insane woman who claims to be his wife; he has to save his kidnapped sister. But as Izzy haunts his dreams and fills him with erotic memories he can't explain, he's forced to admit he feels more than lust.

Trapped in a vicious cycle of past mirroring present, Izzy knows they only have days to find Ian's sister and prevent disaster from striking a second time. If she doesn't, their marriage will be destroyed again – along with the man she loves.

EXCERPT:

Her fingers threaded in his thick hair as she traced his mouth with the tip of her tongue. "Kiss me."

He hesitated, then groaned and covered her lips in a breath stealing kiss. Hot, wet, silky. Her nipples hardened, ached for his touch, the tug of his fingers, the pull of his mouth.

"Touch me." She pressed a kiss to his throat, then licked his collarbone. "I need your hands on me."

He grunted and slid his hands down her back. Rough palms gripped her cheeks, grinding her against his erection. His gaze burned through her as he moved his thigh between her legs.

"Yes. Please." She tilted her hips, rubbing, needing release more than air. "Oh, God, yes." Desire roared through her, the ache building. Building. The orgasm so . . .damned. . .close.

A sharp knock sounded at the door. "Captain? The men are ready to go ashore."

Ian pulled back and swallowed hard, his expression hungry, his heart thumping against her breast.

"Captain?"

"Yes. Yes, I'll be right there." His heavy lidded gaze skimmed her body. Possessive. Aroused. Regretful as he set her aside.

Her mind crawled to process what was happening while her body was doused with disappointment. "You're still going?"

He raked through his hair, then nodded. "We need provisions before sailing for Jamaica. I'll only be a few hours." He stepped to the door, but turned and pinned her with a hard stare. "But when I return . . ."

"Yes?" Her heart thumped in anticipation of some explicit description of what he would do to her. Oh, but his tongue was naughty in all the right ways.
". . . I expect an explanation."
Izzy drooped against the door, her thoughts racing even though her legs collapsed. This was going to be the shortest second chance in history.

Visit Jennifer Jakes at her Website. 

Purchase your .99 Cent copy of TWICE IN A LIFETIME at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Also, check out Jennifer's FREE READ, Shotgun Santa HERE. 

Winter Blog Festival! Aithne Jarretta's, CONCENTRIC CIRCLES.

Happy Monday! The work week starts off right here at A Writer's Mind with my .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL. Grab a hot cup of java and enjoy. Today it's my pleasure to welcome over the super talented Aithne Jarretta.

Clearwater, Florida, United States

Once upon a time Aithne Jarretta tripped upon a ley line. Actually it had happened before, but she didn't realize the ramifications until later. She brushed the incident aside and climbed into her car. Real life was the important factor at the moment. However, those RL moments wove into meeting new friends--the kind most people never see and definitely don't chat much about. Those friends came with persistent voices. Eventually Aithne brought them out of the closet and politely called them Muses. They became her virtual traveling companions and still journey with her today. Author: Concentric Circles, Wyndy: In a Heartbeat, Kissing Santa, Claire: the Lost Fae (coming soon) Flash Fiction: Flashpoint & The Match Maker

About CONCENTRIC CIRCLES…

Shayla Brinawell comes from a fragmented family. Fearful of the dangers her daughter could face, Shayla's mother raised her to deny and hide her magical gifts. Shayla is about to have her world turned upside down and every other which way. Witch way that is. She must come to terms with her magical destiny in hyper drive.

Meekal Chilkwell has always known his life purpose. To protect the magical and healing waters of The Chalice Well located in the shadow of the great mystical Tor in Glastonbury, England. A new danger has arisen. One that threatens not only the Chilkwell family, but also the non-magical world.

Shayla & Meekal join together in order to conquer Syther the Quitch, an evil wizard bent on spreading darkness.

Excerpt from Chapter Eight: Death Knell

After eating, Shayla and Meekal walked through a hidden panel in the library to an upper room serving as an oversized closet. "This is where we store the linen and paper goods for the guests who stay at the manor. It's mostly Mari Bree and Harry who use this secret passage."

Meekal closed the cupboard door they stepped through and a mythic shroud surrounded them with a sense of the past.

Shayla studied the drawers and doors built into the wall on either side. A chill traveled through her. "Kal?"

He motioned to the wall beneath a small leaded window. "Yeah, this is where two monks stayed. Their cots were there. The cupboards are a later addition."

The window let in a sliver of distorted moonlight, casting them in silver.

"Spooky."

"Aye. Come this way," Meekal whispered, wrapping his fingers protectively around hers.

Next, they stepped into the upper hall. Plush carpet padded their footsteps as Shayla followed Meekal past portraits, artifacts and live plants adorning the upper hall.

He led her to a narrow stairwell at the far end. The first surprise Shayla received was this stairwell was an optical illusion. Three pie-shaped steps turned to the right only to end in a black wall carved with a door. Close inspection revealed the illusion.

"Surprise."

"How?"

"This way," Meekal said, mischievously. He moved his hand forward to the shelves that graced the end of the hall next to the fake stairs.

The oak shelf boasted several figurines: a unicorn, a wooden box carved with runes and a Crusader helmet. The helmet was made of steel with narrow eye slits on the crossbar of the symbolic cross of the Crusades. Fleur-de-lis terminals embellished the sacred symbol. Meekal's finger glazed over the brass cross, following its shape. "Pernicious."

Shayla's brows rose sharply.

"No one will ever guess that's my keyword," he said, while he readjusted the helmet's position on the shelf. "Even Harry doesn't know it. Follow me."

Shayla stepped through the doorway that opened. "Why doesn't Harry know? I thought he's your best friend."

"His twisted sense of protecting me. We hang out elsewhere when we're together. Stubborn prat. Anyway he prefers the Tor or Harry's Pub when we take time to socialize." The book shelves swung closed behind them, latching with a soft click.

"Pernicious was the Raven Prince. He was Fyr's da and the person who sent Black Bry to Glastonbury. You'll learn the history later. Perhaps Fyr will tell you."

"Okay," Shayla said, dragging the word out as she focused on the thickly carpeted narrow stairs wending upward. They stepped into Meekal's room. His upper floor bedroom spanned the full size of the manor. The steps carried them up to the middle of the chamber.

The bed dominated the right side, its presence powerfully bold due to four posts rising almost to the pitched ceiling. The ceiling, marked with both heavy wood beams and modern skylights, crowned with everything with perfection. "Wow."

Purchase your .99 Cent Ecopy of CONCENTRIC CIRCLES at Amazon. 

Visit Aithne's Website. 

Follow Aithne on Twitter.  

Sunday Covers It! Eliza Knight's (Annabelle Weston), WICKED WOMAN

I hope everyone is enjoying a fabulous weekend so far! As some of you know, I run regular author features at A Writer's Mind. One is called Monday Covers It. During this particular feature, some of your favorite writers pop in to chat about the 'story' behind their covers.
As the .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG EVENT is currently running during the week, this time I'm hosting a Sunday Covers It feature!

It's my pleasure to welcome over the very talented 'duo' Eliza Knight & Annabelle Weston to share the details behind their latest title, WICKED WOMAN.

The floor is yours, Eliza and Annabelle…

"Along with my cloak and dagger writing partner, we've penned a few tales under the name Annabelle Weston. WICKED WOMAN, is our first western historical erotic romance in our DESERT HEAT series (SCANDALOUS WOMAN & NOTORIOUS WOMAN releasing this year!)

The cover for WICKED WOMAN was made by one of the cover artists at Ellora's Cave, but we hoped that they would do exactly what they did! We wanted the cover to really display the story, so while enjoying the story, the reader could look at the cover and see the town, see the hero and heroine. The background is a saloon—and our hero is a saloon dolly out for redemption. Our hero is tortured cowboy seeking revenge on the man who killed his brother. It just so happens that the same villain who has tortured our hero has also stolen all the savings the heroine put away to start a new respectable life. The colors are warm and inviting, reminding you of a desert town, and sultry at the same time. With the hero's chest exposed, and the heroine wearing a risqué corset, her long legs exposed, you know you're in for a very sexy treat."

Blurb…

There are some things a man can't walk away from. Nathan Bender is on a quest for vengeance. What he finds is sexy saloon-dolly O'Dell Murphy. She holds the information he needs—and becomes a temptation he can't resist.

O'Dell longs for a respectable life outside the saloon. When the man Nathan is searching for steals O'Dell's savings, she has no choice but to go after him.

Torn between passion and revenge, Nathan reluctantly accompanies O'Dell through the Sonoran Desert. There are some things a man can't walk away from—and Nathan is finding it's not revenge that binds him. It's O'Dell, and the wicked, sinful pleasure she provides.

Reader Advisory: This book contains violence and a brief depiction of rape.

What they're saying about WICKED WOMAN.

4 Stars from Fallen Angel Reviews!

Annabelle Weston's latest Wicked Woman is definitely a story worth reading from beginning to end. I love that you have Nathan Bender, who in his whole life has never picked up a gun, but is now determined to use one at any cost. Then you have O'Dell Murphy who even though is a whore by profession, she is more of an innocent woman at heart. Together these two prove to one another that what they really need is love, not vengeance. Annabelle Weston shows us that even though vengeance might bring peace to someone, it can also lead to something like love when it comes to Nathan and O'Dell. All in all, Wicked Woman was a fun read, making me wonder how O'Dell can convince Nathan she is the only woman he needs in life. I loved it and can't wait for more.

Read an excerpt HERE.

Purchase your copy of WICKED WOMAN at Ellora's Cave, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Visit Eliza Knight's Website.

Check out Annabelle's News Blog.

Enjoy the remainder of your weekend!

~Sky

Winter Blog Festival! A PATH NOW TURNED by Carrie James Haynes.

I'd like to welcome author Carrie James Haynes to A Writer's Mind's, .99 CENT EBOOK WINTER BLOG FESTIVAL! Enjoy yourself over the next several weeks as authors share their latest, greatest and very affordable titles.

Carrie James Haynes- Using a pen name for the first time in her writing career, Carrie James Haynes is excited to publish her first fantasy saga, Whispers of a Legend. Shadows of the Past is the first in the series and if free most sites. With the release of THE PATH NOW TURNED the legend continues. She is excited about Whispers of a Legend, an epic fantasy filled with adventure and romance.

Carrie has two of books under Jerri Hines published by Wild Child Publishing, Dream Walker and Patriot Secrets. She also has a historical romance series with Whiskey Creek Press, Tides of Charleston. The Judas Kiss, the first in the series, was released on January 15, 2012. It will be followed by The Promise, May, 2012, and Another Night Falls, September, 2012.

Today Carrie will be sharing her latest .99 Cent release, Whisper of a Legend. Part two: THE PATH NOW TURNED

The Legend Continues...

The legend, they say, is whispered within the winds along the magnificent Preda Mountain Range, the words and deeds never to be forgotten of the Time of the Nuxvenom, a time when the Sordarins crushed the impending threat, the dreaded Asmeodai, and once more Scarladin was safe. The mighty Sordarins, rulers of the sky! No, the Sordarins have slept well over the years secure in their knowledge the Great One watches over them, knowing the legends holds a mighty warrior will emerge if threatened again, born with a destiny only to defend their world. But subtle changes have emerged. Little by little fear beings to resurface that their world, their very existence is once again threaten. They look to the skies anxiously awaiting their warrior; questioning perchance if the Great One has forgotten them. I know this how? For I am the one born to defend their world. I, Kela Calledwdele, was born a Euchoun. I am their warrior.

So starts this epic fantasy...Whispers of a Legend saga. Kela Calledwdele was born with a destiny, a Euchoun with only one purpose in life...to protect. Torn between two worlds, Kela soon discovers she is the hope of both. Now she must find the courage to face the destiny fate has dictated to her.

Kela has always known what path in life she would follow. She was born a Euchoun. Half Witheleghean, a passive peaceful race where magic runs freely and the other half, Sordarin, a valiant warrior race of hawkmen who rule the sky, she knows well her parents gave the ultimate sacrifice to give her a chance to live. Yet, in so doing, they have left Kela unprepared to face the dangers that await her. Her instincts are to protect and in this she does, but in so doing it leads her into a world where she knows not whom to trust. In time her power matures and grows stronger when she bonds with a Sordarin warrior, Cono. She learns well why she holds the power. An evil as no other before, Asmeodai, has emerged but all is not what it seems as a dark cloak encompasses her family. Betrayal, distrust, treachery leaves Kela alone. She is torn by her desire for Cono and the purpose, the path, she has been given to follow. And when another emerges within her world, one who seemly wants only to help her along her path, she is pulled further away from her Sordarin.

Having proven her ability during the Payelaga Desert battle, she believes herself ready to follow her destiny beside her warrior. Fate has another path for Kela. When she discovers all she has long believed is not as it seems, the betrayal leaves Kela torn by her desire for Cono and the path she has been given to follow.

The Path Now Turned is the second installment of the Whispers of a Legend saga. Follow Kela's battle to embrace her destiny. Whispers of a Legend follows Kela along this conflicting path, where as a young woman unsure of her ability and her confidence in facing the challenges before her to where she emerges as a strong leader who learns to lean upon her own strength, to stand not behind, but side by side with her warrior.

Excerpt...

For the first time since the assailant a smile crept on my face at my impulsive sister. Sareta flung herself over the barrier and hugged my warrior. His reaction I couldn't see with his back to me, but I saw Sareta's and...Amicia's who suddenly came into my view.Her face. I needed nothing else to know, even from the distance I stood. She glowed as he bowed his head to her. He must have said something for she blushed, prettily. I stared in disbelief. Sareta grabbed Amicia's hand and squeezed it excitedly when Cono withdrew. My attention turned from my warrior to Amicia whose eyes fixated on my warrior. Sareta leaned into her giggling in a fashion, turning to another near by, saying something that all laughed. But Amicia was in love with my warrior...Her eyes lifted upon him, but mine lay upon her. The whole of my bearing stiffened.Engrossed in my thoughts, the figure in the sky shadowed over me without reaction until the fluttering of his wings blew around me. Taking a few steps back, Cono landed beside me. His bold eyes caught mine. Irritation dissipated with each step he took toward me.

His lips on one side lifted in way one might considered a smile. His broad shoulders glistened in the sunlight with the sweat he had exerted. His wings flexed. The shadows flying above us softened the sharp planes of my warrior's face. His hand reached for me. I gave no resistance, uttering only under my breath.

"You were to come to me this day. I waited…then I saw this celebration in the…" Others words hung in the air for he said nothing.

Ignoring my ramblings, his arm rounded me pulling me to him. His hand caressed my face, tenderly, passionately. I felt I couldn't breath. He bent his head and kissed me, fiercely. The power flowed between us. I leaned into him, accepting him, wanting what I wasn't sure, but I opened myself to him, heart and soul. His mouth wandered over my lips, cheeks, brows and throat.

"Kela," he uttered, his voice rasping my name. "I love you, Woman. With everything in me. You are part of me."

In some dim recess of my mind, I suspected all a dream. In hypnotized fascination I said nothing. He ran his hand through my hair, freeing the bounds that held it. Falling down long passed my waist, his fingers lost in the mass of tangles.

His eyes blazing, he tightened his hold. His mouth claimed mine once more. Flows of warmth filled me, gasping as his lips burned a path down my cheek to the sensitive part of my neck. I arched back, baring my throat for him, lost in a sensation that dealt not with reason but want.

"Cono," I whispered in a low drawing voice. His hand rounded me, pressing me against his leather bound chest. Between the material of my gown, his hands cupped my breast, sending me into a spasm of pleasure, robbing me of all reason."We can't," I uttered, though my body betrayed me. With reluctance, he broke from me. His hand lingered on my face.

"I'll wait only until I get you back to my barrack. No more separation. Not now."

Exhilarated! Words I had only dreamed of escaped his lips. "I have no say?" I teased.

He laughed and drew me into his arms again. "Tell me, my Euchoun. Tell me you love me."

Visit Jerri Hines (Carrie James Haynes) Facebook Fan page Novel Works and Castles in the Air Blog.

Purchase your copy of THE PATH NOW TURNED at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.