Julie Elizabeth Powell's Blog, page 54
October 26, 2016
WANDS, SPELLS, & MAGIC TALES Box Set
WANDS, SPELLS, & MAGIC TALES
Genre: Paranormal
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. Some stories are written in American, some in Canadian, and some in British English. The authors have chosen to stay true to their heritage.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. Some stories are written in American, some in Canadian, and some in British English. The authors have chosen to stay true to their heritage.
WANDS, SPELLS, AND MAGIC TALES is a magnificent collection of witchcraft and magic paranormal books, some full-length novels, some short enough to read in one sitting, each one spellbinding. Every single compelling story was hand-picked for your enjoyment. 9 worlds to make your own, 9 thrilling adventures, 9 new sets of witchy friends. The perfect companion for late nights on the sofa, the perfect gift to those who enjoy a good read. Add it to your favorite kindle with one click now.
This box set includes a mix of already released and totally new novels and novellas, all complete works. Those books which are part of a series can be enjoyed fully without the need to read the complete series (though there is a chance you might develop story-addiction issues—for that, we apologize).
This box set includes a mix of already released and totally new novels and novellas, all complete works. Those books which are part of a series can be enjoyed fully without the need to read the complete series (though there is a chance you might develop story-addiction issues—for that, we apologize).
Eternal Island — K.S. Haigwood & Ella MedlerEternal Island - A place where vampires rule, witches play, danger lurks and dreams really do come true.
Eternal Island is a paranormal suspense novel, deeply rooted into myth. Vampires and magic form a unique backdrop to a love story with long-reaching consequences.
Human girl Ariana Lochalan finds herself transported from the relative calm of her ‘Nowhere, Arkansas’ life into a diametrically opposite existence when she discovers she is a powerful witch and meant to wed High Vampire of Eternal Island, Abe Cambridge. Despite first-sight magnetism, the two protagonists are being pushed apart, obstacles tripping them at every step, outside forces interfering and threatening their peace, and ultimately their lives.
A world rich in magic and intrigue, Eternal Island is the first installment of a saga which has love at its core and delves through the mire that is human nature in a turmoil of feeling and emotion.
Would courage, resilience and love be enough to bring together two soul mates?
How much would you sacrifice to save the one who owns your heart?
Tangled Roots — Rebekkah Ford
After eighteen-year-old Carrie Jacobson discovers she was a witch in a previous life, she seeks to reawaken that part of her soul. With the help of an eccentric enchantress and a boy who is more than he seems, Carrie succeeds and is spellbound by the memories of her life in Europe during the 1600s as a powerful witch named Isadora. Carrie reverts to her bewitching, more volatile form and sets out to break a curse she cast long ago on her coven.
Carrie’s boyfriend Tree cannot help feeling uneasy about the changes he sees in the woman he loves. When Carrie’s past clashes with the present and dark magic intoxicates her once again, Tree must take drastic matters into his own hands and attempt to save Carrie from herself.
With Tree’s help, will Carrie be able to resist the allure of her new powers? Or will she plunge into the deep end and give into them?
Haunted Raine — R.E. Hargrave
Distracted by the everyday routine of raising children, being a wife, and keeping a home, Lorraine Morrissey let life pass her by. Her wake up call comes when she realizes that with their children gone, her husband Richard is rarely home, and she’s filling her solitary days with trivial tasks. A crazy idea to save her marriage leads to a summer beach vacation unlike any she’s ever taken; one that involves unknowingly buying a haunted house.
The Wicked Awakened — Samantha Jacobey
What would you do if a five hundred year old witch wanted to turn your body into her new home?
Morcant and Blake Korrigan own a little shop of horrors, where witches congregate and people ending up dead isn’t rare. When Karen Hiltzman joins their coven, she has no idea what she’s getting into. Drawn in, the group convinces her to recruit her best friend, Sarah Matthews, after discovering that she bears a very special birthmark; one that indicates she’s the girl they’ve been waiting for.
Eager to reincarnate a witch put to death by an angry mob five hundred years prior, Morcant unleashes a spell; a dark and sinister curse. His ritual transforms Sarah’s body and will bring the dreaded Brenna back to life when it’s completed. Blake wants to stop him; but will he be strong enough to defeat his elder sibling, and if he does… will he be able to let her go when it’s done?
MA - 18+V - violenceS - sexual content - coarse language
Witchwood Estate 1 & 2 — Patti Roberts
Orphaned at five-years-old, Alexandria Santorini learns she comes from a long line of powerful witches. Twelve years later, Alexandria is leaving Catnip Cottage and going home to Ferntree Falls to claim her inheritance - Witchwood Estate - the home where she was born, and where her parents were murdered.
But something very sinister is going on in Ferntree Falls - something that will change Alexandria's life in ways she never imagined. For starters, one of her new best friends disappears in the sunlight… the other one just tried to kill her!
Whimsical, "TV" length episodes in an ongoing series. Witches, spells, ghosts, sprites, shape-shifters, wolves and more. With an equal measure of Magic and Evil, Witchwood is sure to win your heart and soul.
For all those young at heart, grab your broomstick and come along for the ride!
Circle of Protection — Kendra Hale
Driven by insatiable greed, Mark Drew employs the powerful witch Lorel, to realise his every desire. When he meets Violet, the great niece and heir of the wealthy Sir Peter Grosvenor-Willetts, he proposes to her with one sole
purpose. To attain this fortune, through whatever means. Magic... and even murder. The ensnaring spell cast off, Violet flees, with the help of her great uncle, to a small town lying within a protective circle. In this idyllic sanctuary, Violet's life takes a happy turn, as she discovers her own magical identity, and love. But, Mark is adamant in his pursuance… as the forces of good versus evil do battle.
Weird I — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Henry Ian Darling is a collector of oddities, those that bring him closer to an enigma, one he hopes will be a great thing.
But maybe it isn’t.
Weird II — Julie Elizabeth PowellWhat is the significance of what Henry Ian Darling found in the boot of a car?
And how did his wife know of the event? How could anyone be cruel enough to do such a thing?
Find out where the discovery leads this collector of oddities and what it may mean for Henry’s ultimate quest - finding the enigma, that which will save or destroy all dimensions.
Weird III — Julie Elizabeth PowellA weird dream tips Henry Ian Darling into the Shadowlands.
What has this to do with Brett?
Ms Peabody has a plan, but will Henry survive his quest?
K. S. Haigwood is the author of the Save My Soul, Eternal Island and Moonrising series. By day, she is a CNC Machinist, but by night and weekend, she saves the world or destroys it in a single bound, depending on what mood she is in and if she has had her coffee. In addition to being an award winner for the 'Life Changing Read Award', she has also been nominated twice for Best Indie Book 2016 in the Paranormal category.
Characterization is one of K.S. Haigwood’s strongest points. You can understand each characters' predicaments and you can almost foresee their reactions. But. There’s always a but, with this author, because Haigwood can deliver enough twists and turns to turn a tornado on its head. Just as you think you’ve figured where the story is going next, she’s duped you again.
The whole of her novels are littered with good chuckle moments, and even in the darkest hour, the thinnest hint of a silver lining is still visible among the clouds.
Shock therapy for body and soul, delivered at a hundred miles an hour with the humor and charisma of a trendsetter, Haigwood is certain to be hailed the new wonder-drug to cure all ills.
Characterization is one of K.S. Haigwood’s strongest points. You can understand each characters' predicaments and you can almost foresee their reactions. But. There’s always a but, with this author, because Haigwood can deliver enough twists and turns to turn a tornado on its head. Just as you think you’ve figured where the story is going next, she’s duped you again.
The whole of her novels are littered with good chuckle moments, and even in the darkest hour, the thinnest hint of a silver lining is still visible among the clouds.
Shock therapy for body and soul, delivered at a hundred miles an hour with the humor and charisma of a trendsetter, Haigwood is certain to be hailed the new wonder-drug to cure all ills.
Ella Medler is a U.K. author and editor. She writes fiction in many genres in a seemingly vain attempt to slow down her overactive brain enough to write non-fiction on subjects she knows a thing or two about. She also does not believe in the starchy use of English and ignores the type of rule that doesn’t allow for a sentence to be finished in a preposition. Her books are action-driven, and well-developed characters are her forte. Loves: freedom. Hates: her inner censor.
Domestic engineer. Author. Burgeoning editor. And quite possibly certifiable. Believing every story can shine bright with a bit of tenacious tough love, R.E. Hargrave is thorough and to the point. An international bestselling author, she takes storytelling and manuscript polishing seriously, working with her authors and on her own creations to ensure they come to life, crawling from the pages and into the reader’s souls.
Hargrave lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX and is married to her high school sweetheart; together they are raising three children. A native 'mutt,' she has lived in New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, and California. She is fond of setting her stories—which range from the sweet to the paranormal, to the erotic and horrific—on location in South Carolina and Texas.
Hargrave lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX and is married to her high school sweetheart; together they are raising three children. A native 'mutt,' she has lived in New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, and California. She is fond of setting her stories—which range from the sweet to the paranormal, to the erotic and horrific—on location in South Carolina and Texas.
Samantha Jacobey: Anyone who knows me could tell you, I am a friendly kind of person, never met a stranger and take up conversations any where at any time. I work hard, and my mind never seems to shut down, as I wake up often in the middle of the night with ideas pouring out and demanding to be dealt with. Of course that means much of my books were written in the middle of the night.
I grew up and still live in the great state of Texas where everything is bigger, where we have warm weather and a central location. I love my state, my town, and my family, which includes my four sons, my significant other, and many friends as well.
I have thoroughly enjoyed writing the books that are currently available and hope you will enjoy reading them just as much. And of course, there will be many more stories to come.
I grew up and still live in the great state of Texas where everything is bigger, where we have warm weather and a central location. I love my state, my town, and my family, which includes my four sons, my significant other, and many friends as well.
I have thoroughly enjoyed writing the books that are currently available and hope you will enjoy reading them just as much. And of course, there will be many more stories to come.
Patti Roberts was born in Brisbane, Australia, but soon moved to Darwin in the Northern Territory with her parents and two sisters. Her son Luke was born in Darwin in 1980. Although Patti now lives in Cairns, Queensland, she still considers Darwin her hometown.
When Patti is not writing, she is busy pursuing her other passion, which is designing book covers and formatting for other authors.
When Patti is not writing, she is busy pursuing her other passion, which is designing book covers and formatting for other authors.
For Kendra Hale, who has lived in Canada, the USA and on the European Continent, Great Britain, or the UK, will always be home. Her love for the UK is apparent in The Snow Crystals, and her other/future books, which are all set here. Kendra’s knowledge and life-long interest in the world of antiques, collectibles and such, finds its way into her writing. She writes fiction in different genres.
I cannot ignore my dreams, so many of them, with names and places and ideas that spark my imagination and compel me to write; to create stories, whether fantasy or horror, or mystery or psychological thriller or murder or even humour and adventure. So, my garden is sown, flourishing, with all manner of growth, and still the dreams come.
Julie Elizabeth Powell, my soul lingering within my imagination; maybe you'll join me?
Julie Elizabeth Powell, my soul lingering within my imagination; maybe you'll join me?
MoB Promotions
ZORAIDA GREY AND THE FAMILY STONES by Sorchia DuBois
ZORAIDA GREY AND THE FAMILY STONES
by Sorchia DuBois
Genre: Gothic Romantic Suspense
Granny is dying. The only way Zoraida can save her is to steal a healing crystal of smoky quartz. Too bad the crystal is in Scotland. In a haunted castle. Guarded by mind-reading, psychopathic sorcerers.
A modern witch, Zoraida lives in Arkansas where she tells fortunes and side-steps her boyfriend’s marriage proposals. If she tells the truth, which she seldom does, leaving her quiet, predictable life excites her more than she can admit. She heads to Scotland with her best-friend-forever Zhu, who likes fishing, magic, and men ––not necessarily in that order.
Getting inside Logan Castle is easy. Getting out––not so much. Up to their necks in family intrigue and smack-dab in the middle of a simmering clan war, Zoraida and Zhu discover Granny hasn’t told them everything. Too-good-to-be-true Michael Logan and his refined mother, wrap the castle in spells. Unapproachable and surly Shea Logan doesn’t trust anyone including Zoraida.
A modern witch, Zoraida lives in Arkansas where she tells fortunes and side-steps her boyfriend’s marriage proposals. If she tells the truth, which she seldom does, leaving her quiet, predictable life excites her more than she can admit. She heads to Scotland with her best-friend-forever Zhu, who likes fishing, magic, and men ––not necessarily in that order.
Getting inside Logan Castle is easy. Getting out––not so much. Up to their necks in family intrigue and smack-dab in the middle of a simmering clan war, Zoraida and Zhu discover Granny hasn’t told them everything. Too-good-to-be-true Michael Logan and his refined mother, wrap the castle in spells. Unapproachable and surly Shea Logan doesn’t trust anyone including Zoraida.
His whisper sinks into my stomach like rotten meat. His fingers tense on my neck.
He is in my head, but I’m in his as well. “This is why you brought me down here. You’ve been playing me along all day.”
“Of course I have.”
“What makes you think it will be so easy?”
His tone is measured, not cruel, but not comforting either. “Do you think you can waltz in here and do as you please? You’re not in Kansas anymore.”
“You mean I’m not in Arkansas anymore.” My voice rasps under the pressure of his fingers.
Pain in my temples pulls me deeper into the abyss. He pushes the spell into my head.
He is in my head, but I’m in his as well. “This is why you brought me down here. You’ve been playing me along all day.”
“Of course I have.”
“What makes you think it will be so easy?”
His tone is measured, not cruel, but not comforting either. “Do you think you can waltz in here and do as you please? You’re not in Kansas anymore.”
“You mean I’m not in Arkansas anymore.” My voice rasps under the pressure of his fingers.
Pain in my temples pulls me deeper into the abyss. He pushes the spell into my head.
Losing myself,
losing myself,
losing myself.
losing myself,
losing myself.
I open my mouth to scream but forget to do it. How much of this ensorcellment is due to his spell and how much to the smell of peaty whisky on his breath, to the warmth of his muscular arms, to the solid weight of his body against mine?
What is this strange pleasure, even as he pries open my mind, as he pushes his will into mine, as he touches my most private thoughts? All memories of the healing crystal, Granny, and the temptation of the black stone disappear in a puff of desire.
His fingers loosen and, feather light, he caresses my throat, my shoulders. Warm, moist breaths in my ear, warm, soft lips on my hair. He leans against me, and my back arches toward him.
But, dammit!
He’s in my head, and I don’t remember inviting him. This will not do. I steel myself, dismissing the tendrils of passion threatening to draw me closer to him. Granny taught me tricks to use. Let the Universe move through you and beyond. Nothing can harm you. Remember your own power.
I lead him in circles, drawing him deeper with desire only partially fabricated. He follows too eagerly, our combined passion clouding his intentions. Too late, he sees the trap. I hold him for an extra second, reluctant to let him go entirely.
What is this strange pleasure, even as he pries open my mind, as he pushes his will into mine, as he touches my most private thoughts? All memories of the healing crystal, Granny, and the temptation of the black stone disappear in a puff of desire.
His fingers loosen and, feather light, he caresses my throat, my shoulders. Warm, moist breaths in my ear, warm, soft lips on my hair. He leans against me, and my back arches toward him.
But, dammit!
He’s in my head, and I don’t remember inviting him. This will not do. I steel myself, dismissing the tendrils of passion threatening to draw me closer to him. Granny taught me tricks to use. Let the Universe move through you and beyond. Nothing can harm you. Remember your own power.
I lead him in circles, drawing him deeper with desire only partially fabricated. He follows too eagerly, our combined passion clouding his intentions. Too late, he sees the trap. I hold him for an extra second, reluctant to let him go entirely.
Sorchia Dubois lives in the piney forest of the Missouri Ozarks with eight cats. She edits technical writing and fiction part time, but she spends at least five hours per day tapping out paranormal romance, Gothic murder, and Scottish thrillers.A proud member of the Ross clan, Sorchia incorporates all things Celtic (especially Scottish) into her works. She can often be found swilling Scotch at Scottish festivals.
MoB Promotions
LOVERS & SINNERS by Hunter S. Jones
LOVERS & SINNERS
by Hunter S. Jones
Genre: Fairytale
Will that which you most desire destroy you?
James van Lee is a lonely gypsy boy. His isolation leads him to become the greatest rock star in the world, yet he dreams of a girl he knew long ago.
Dr. Maggie Pickett of Emory University has never loved anyone but Rhett Turnquest, but he is under the spell of Natasha, who has secrets no one will ever know.
Lovers & Sinners introduces a world of stardom and those who seek it, as well those who wish only to be loved. The story intrigues with its open sexuality, international locales, and a mysterious link to Russia’s cursed royal family with secret ties to the love affair of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII.
Based loosely on fairy tales and legends, the journey begins in The Dreams, Story 1.
Down the hallway, James heard voices and the ping of an elevator. The soft hush of rain enveloped the early evening when he glanced outside through the blinds. He saw the limo that waited for him and he couldn’t wait to escape the clutches of his tormentor for the final time.
“I am a wealthy man, and I am Russian, so I know everything. I know about your men. That too is my fault. I should’ve loved you more and you wouldn’t look for tokens from others.”
James took his left hand and closed the blinds, leaving the room in virtual darkness except for the glow of the machines that kept his father alive. He noticed the shallow breaths from across the room.
“But you are my son, and I promise you that one day you will meet a girl and she will make you believe in magic.” His wizened eyes peered at James in the darkness, and he said, “I want you to be very careful.” He paused before continuing, “The thing you desire and love most is what will kill you.” He took four deep gulps of air, holding the oxygen tube to his nostrils. “I believe I have taught you that lesson. You have watched me chase money. Now I die alone. Hated by my own blood.”
How long is he going to go on like this? “Is this all you need to say? I must go.” James’s voice shook as he said this and his rage surprised him. He kept his hands in his jeans in order to stop himself from hurting the old man.
A frail hand reached for him in the darkness. “Please forgive me. I was never taught to love. I love you.” He wheezed the rattle of death and said, “You are a rich man at a young age. You have made me proud.” With that, his hand dropped to the bed and one of the machines began to flash rapidly. Zoe and another nurse bolted into the room.
“He’s coded,” Zoe said, looking up at James.
He looked at the ceiling as if searching for a clue, ran his hand through his hair, and said, “Do what you have to do.” With that, he walked away without looking back.
On the way down the corridor and into the elevator, his brain raced as quickly as the monitor had a few moments ago. Why did he wait until now to tell me these secrets?
Amazon ✯ Amazon Int'l ✯ Goodreads
✯✯✯✯✯ By Yoong
An adult fairytale with many interesting twists. Romance that waves through layers of intrigue, It is hard for the reader to put the book down. Lovers and Sinners by Hunter S. Jones is definitely a bewitchingly provocative and captivating book with unlikely characters woven together to form a whole.
✯✯✯✯✯ By JLC13 Verified Purchase
All of us can relate to wonderful dreams as well as nightmares. In Lovers and Sinners this author weaves both together in such a dynamic, breathtaking way that it’s almost unbelievable. The characters in this story are multifaceted and well-developed. The plot is rich with history, romance and sensuality. If I had to describe this book in just two words, I would say it’s devilishly delicious! I look forward to reading the next installment in The Dreams series.
✯✯✯✯✯ By Mandus Verified Purchase
This one caught my attention and after the first few chapters, I was pretty much hooked. A beautiful story, with seemingly alive characters and a well thought out plot. I'm happy to give this one my highest rating. Well done, Jones.
Hunter S. Jones publishes historical works and fiction independently as well as through traditional platforms. She is a member of the American Historical Association, Royal Historical Society, Organization of American Historians, Society of Authors, Historian: American Historical Association, Dangerous Women Project, Society of Civil War Historians, Atlanta Historical Society, War Historians (US), Historical Writers Association, Historical Novel Society, English Historical Fiction Authors, Atlanta Writers Club, and Rivendell Writers Colony. Originally from Tennessee, she now lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her Scottish born husband.
MoB Promotions
CHERISHED SECRETS by C.B. Clark
CHERISHED SECRETS
by C.B. Clark
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Twelve years ago, sixteen-year old Carrie Ann Hetherington, pregnant with the child of a murder suspect, fled the small town of Cooper's Ridge for the anonymity of Seattle. Now, faced with a family dilemma, she must risk her carefully reinvented life and return to her childhood home.
Eighteen-year-old Declan McAllister's prom date is found beaten and strangled to death, and he becomes the prime suspect accused of the grisly crime. Now this successful Dallas businessman returns to Cooper's Ridge to find the true murderer and finally lift the cloak of suspicion he's faced all these years. In his quest to prove his innocence, he must join forces with the woman who shattered his heart to find a devious killer who will stop at nothing to protect a shocking truth.
Caught up in a menacing web of secrets, deception and danger, Carrie Ann and Declan struggle to overcome past betrayals and present danger. Can they tear down the barriers they've erected around their hearts and rediscover true love?
Eighteen-year-old Declan McAllister's prom date is found beaten and strangled to death, and he becomes the prime suspect accused of the grisly crime. Now this successful Dallas businessman returns to Cooper's Ridge to find the true murderer and finally lift the cloak of suspicion he's faced all these years. In his quest to prove his innocence, he must join forces with the woman who shattered his heart to find a devious killer who will stop at nothing to protect a shocking truth.
Caught up in a menacing web of secrets, deception and danger, Carrie Ann and Declan struggle to overcome past betrayals and present danger. Can they tear down the barriers they've erected around their hearts and rediscover true love?
“Who’s there?” Her voice was a thin squeak.
Another snap, followed by a furtive rustle of bushes.
She gulped, wishing she’d thought to bring a weapon. The hairs on the back of her neck rose. She wasn’t alone. Someone or something was hiding in the dark woods watching her.
In the next second, she was up and racing along the trail to the barn, ignoring the branches scratching her face and tearing at her clothes. Bursting out of the trees, she ran to her car, stumbling over the rutted ground. She opened the door and leaped in, hitting the automatic lock button.
Her chest heaved as she peered through the rain- spotted windshield at the crumbling ruin of the barn looming over her, the red paint on the old boards faded to umber, the windows dark and vacant. Another shiver rippled along her spine. Stop being foolish. No one’s here but you. The noises she’d heard in the forest were from a squirrel or a deer seeking shelter from the rain. Lots of animals lived in the dense woods.
She released a shaky laugh and reached for her purse on the seat beside her for a tissue. Her breath caught in her throat. A small fragment of cloth lay atop her purse, the vibrant colors glowing in the meager, late afternoon light. With a shaking hand, she picked up the cloth. The smooth silk slid between her fingers. Mesmerized, she studied the scrap of torn fabric.
The air in the car was suddenly too thick to breathe. Fingers shaking, she turned the cloth over and jammed her fist in her mouth stifling a scream. Written across the silk in thick, black letters was a single, condemning word. Guilty.
She dropped the cloth as if it burned and gulped air. While she’d been traipsing around the forest looking for where the killer had dumped Skye’s body, someone had been inside her car and left this piece of Skye’s scarf for her to find. The same person could still be here, watching her, waiting.
Her hand shook so much she dropped the keys on the floor twice before finally fitting them in the ignition and starting the car. The engine choked, sputtered, and died. Her heart hammered as she tried again. Come on. Please, please start.
Another snap, followed by a furtive rustle of bushes.
She gulped, wishing she’d thought to bring a weapon. The hairs on the back of her neck rose. She wasn’t alone. Someone or something was hiding in the dark woods watching her.
In the next second, she was up and racing along the trail to the barn, ignoring the branches scratching her face and tearing at her clothes. Bursting out of the trees, she ran to her car, stumbling over the rutted ground. She opened the door and leaped in, hitting the automatic lock button.
Her chest heaved as she peered through the rain- spotted windshield at the crumbling ruin of the barn looming over her, the red paint on the old boards faded to umber, the windows dark and vacant. Another shiver rippled along her spine. Stop being foolish. No one’s here but you. The noises she’d heard in the forest were from a squirrel or a deer seeking shelter from the rain. Lots of animals lived in the dense woods.
She released a shaky laugh and reached for her purse on the seat beside her for a tissue. Her breath caught in her throat. A small fragment of cloth lay atop her purse, the vibrant colors glowing in the meager, late afternoon light. With a shaking hand, she picked up the cloth. The smooth silk slid between her fingers. Mesmerized, she studied the scrap of torn fabric.
The air in the car was suddenly too thick to breathe. Fingers shaking, she turned the cloth over and jammed her fist in her mouth stifling a scream. Written across the silk in thick, black letters was a single, condemning word. Guilty.
She dropped the cloth as if it burned and gulped air. While she’d been traipsing around the forest looking for where the killer had dumped Skye’s body, someone had been inside her car and left this piece of Skye’s scarf for her to find. The same person could still be here, watching her, waiting.
Her hand shook so much she dropped the keys on the floor twice before finally fitting them in the ignition and starting the car. The engine choked, sputtered, and died. Her heart hammered as she tried again. Come on. Please, please start.
C. B. Clark has always loved reading, especially romances, but it wasn’t until she lost her voice for a year that she considered writing her own romantic suspense stories. She grew up in Canada’s Northwest Territories and Yukon. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Archaeology, she has worked as an archaeologist and an educator, teaching students from the primary grades through the first year of college. She enjoys hiking, canoeing, and snowshoeing with her husband and dog near her home in the wilderness of central British Columbia.
MoB Promotions
October 24, 2016
The Jein’s Journey Series by Cheryllynn Dyess
THE JEIN'S JOURNEY SERIES
by Cheryllynn Dyess
Genre: YA Fantasy
Cover Designer: Cover Me Creative
Cover Designer: Cover Me Creative
Each person has a distinct trait that's either held in reserve or pursued without inhibitions. For reasons that vary, the latter may seem an egotistic act. However, not for Jein. Taking a path other than the one she believes is right is like betraying her own soul. This book features a young girl who deals with her individuality in admirably different ways. It tells a story of how she accomplishes exceptional feats in a world that draws an unyielding line between men and women. Follow Jein Kyominias, a girl who does not entertain the established roles other females of the upper class take in her land. Her rearing in a matriarchal society has certain paths laid out. She has chosen to be an elite hunter instead of a mere matron. She is unique in her fondness for activities that are specifically bequeathed for men. She decides she will be different---strong and different that is.
She breathes so calmly and smiles slightly at my questions and the tone in which I ask. “Jein, you are still my little daughter among it all. But now you are a woman who has chosen such a varied path. The path you chose put you where you are today. You are the best woman to send into this type of position. You are going to do great. When the Governess came to me with this, I truly thought you would be honored to do it?”
My head hurts, seems like me taking my own path in life has brought me to follow a path now set forth by others. Where is the independence in that? “Mother, I am honored. Just taken back by the surprise of it all. I will need you and the family to see after my home place while I am gone. I need to plan for so much more now.” When we get to her home place I say goodbye and give her hugs. I wave to Father and the brothers out in the field. I must get to my own home place and really start to plan. I walk with a steady pace and find myself home quickly. Instead of going in I go to the stream.
The stream is still frozen over, but the ice is thinning. I can see the water beneath flowing faster now and the fish are playing. The air is cold and there is small soft breeze. The trees are open to the skies with the winter air upon them, no leaves now. There is snow still on the ground and beautiful blooms have been gone for a while now. Life is quiet and dull without the life of the plants during this part of the year. I just look around the area and take in all the smells. The world smells different in the cold, harsh, hard and dull. You can smell the ground more as musky than full of life.
My head hurts, seems like me taking my own path in life has brought me to follow a path now set forth by others. Where is the independence in that? “Mother, I am honored. Just taken back by the surprise of it all. I will need you and the family to see after my home place while I am gone. I need to plan for so much more now.” When we get to her home place I say goodbye and give her hugs. I wave to Father and the brothers out in the field. I must get to my own home place and really start to plan. I walk with a steady pace and find myself home quickly. Instead of going in I go to the stream.
The stream is still frozen over, but the ice is thinning. I can see the water beneath flowing faster now and the fish are playing. The air is cold and there is small soft breeze. The trees are open to the skies with the winter air upon them, no leaves now. There is snow still on the ground and beautiful blooms have been gone for a while now. Life is quiet and dull without the life of the plants during this part of the year. I just look around the area and take in all the smells. The world smells different in the cold, harsh, hard and dull. You can smell the ground more as musky than full of life.
In Calastan we met Jein and found out the type of woman she was becoming. She is strong and determined to stay true to her soul...Now she goes to Resolution.
The population of Calastan is thriving and the Governess has decided that they need to expand. She has spoken to the other tribes and has the go ahead to explore Resolution and expand into that territory. The Governess turns to Jein and Yurani to go and explore the new land and start a village that can sustain a new population. In Resolution, they find more than just a land blessed with life and nature, but they also find their lost ancestors. The ones that had explored before and never returned.
Join Jein and Yurani as they explore Resolution searching for a new home for their people. Finding land and food is the easy part…it’s what else they find that rewrites their history.
The population of Calastan is thriving and the Governess has decided that they need to expand. She has spoken to the other tribes and has the go ahead to explore Resolution and expand into that territory. The Governess turns to Jein and Yurani to go and explore the new land and start a village that can sustain a new population. In Resolution, they find more than just a land blessed with life and nature, but they also find their lost ancestors. The ones that had explored before and never returned.
Join Jein and Yurani as they explore Resolution searching for a new home for their people. Finding land and food is the easy part…it’s what else they find that rewrites their history.
“Jein, what are you thinking? You are always so quiet.” Rohm asks.
I laugh and glance his way, “I am the quiet one, really? My thoughts are of how peaceful your home is. How I feel at peace here. It is weird but it seems so right.” I bashfully look away. How silly of me to have such thoughts.
“You can stay.” He says as he steps in front of me and looks down into my eyes. He is just a few inches taller than me. He lays his hand on my shoulder gently, and then takes his hand to lift my chin so that I will see his eyes only. I tremble and step back, his hand falls from my chin.
“Rohm, I cannot stay here. I am in charge of finding a new home for my people, I cannot abandon them.” I turn to look at the sky in a direction where he is not standing.
“I know. But, you must understand I had to try.”
“Why, why would you ask me to stay here? This is not my home. You know what is expected of me. You know I am not like the others.”
“From the first time I watched you at your building on the other side of the Serenity River I knew who you were. But who they expect you to be is not who you are. I had heard stories of your people for years. I learned about you last year when we saw your team hunting and exploring.” He sighs as if he struggles talking. Could he be any more like me in this case? “Look,” he turns me towards him, “you’re a beautiful woman, strong, intelligent. I was fascinated from that moment over a year ago when I watched you hunt. I want you to stay to be with me.”
I laugh and glance his way, “I am the quiet one, really? My thoughts are of how peaceful your home is. How I feel at peace here. It is weird but it seems so right.” I bashfully look away. How silly of me to have such thoughts.
“You can stay.” He says as he steps in front of me and looks down into my eyes. He is just a few inches taller than me. He lays his hand on my shoulder gently, and then takes his hand to lift my chin so that I will see his eyes only. I tremble and step back, his hand falls from my chin.
“Rohm, I cannot stay here. I am in charge of finding a new home for my people, I cannot abandon them.” I turn to look at the sky in a direction where he is not standing.
“I know. But, you must understand I had to try.”
“Why, why would you ask me to stay here? This is not my home. You know what is expected of me. You know I am not like the others.”
“From the first time I watched you at your building on the other side of the Serenity River I knew who you were. But who they expect you to be is not who you are. I had heard stories of your people for years. I learned about you last year when we saw your team hunting and exploring.” He sighs as if he struggles talking. Could he be any more like me in this case? “Look,” he turns me towards him, “you’re a beautiful woman, strong, intelligent. I was fascinated from that moment over a year ago when I watched you hunt. I want you to stay to be with me.”
Jein has traveled many places looking for a new home for her people, The Goddess led her here to Kyluna. After discovering her life and history were false, Jein struggled within to stay true to herself but she knew where she had to go - for her people and for her.
As her life unfolds, there are those who try to take it and those who try to embrace it.
As her life unfolds, there are those who try to take it and those who try to embrace it.
“It is curious as to the importance, but with both the Goddess you know and the God that the others know you would think there was a third somewhere. Maybe you have not met her yet is all.” Lendsei says in the calmest of reactions to my obviously blurted thoughts. Raising one brow I look over at her questioningly. She seems to know more. Calastanians and Resolutionians believe in the Goddess Alista while the peoples of Lizeth believe in the Father of Euphasia, Alyano. Who could the third be? Why do we not know? Maybe this would be a good time for meditation.
“Is there a third Lendsei?” I question.
She smiles to herself, looking forward, she replies, “Oh yes and she is even greater than both Alista and Alyano together; The Great Mother Arora.”
“Arora?” I stop walking and ask. I stand there searching my memories for any mention of this Great Mother and find none. I look over to Lendsei, “Why have I not heard of her before? She was not in any of our lessons of history?”
“Jein,” She says while gently putting her hand over my heart. I raise a brow and look at her hand over my heart and back to her. She continues, “Think, if Alista is prayed to only by Calastanians and Resolutionians and Alyano by Lizethians, then who do the rest pray to? Who do the Hayzelians pray to?” She stops closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, “Look with your heart to see the truth.” A surge of energy passes from her to me and suddenly a vision happens.
“Is there a third Lendsei?” I question.
She smiles to herself, looking forward, she replies, “Oh yes and she is even greater than both Alista and Alyano together; The Great Mother Arora.”
“Arora?” I stop walking and ask. I stand there searching my memories for any mention of this Great Mother and find none. I look over to Lendsei, “Why have I not heard of her before? She was not in any of our lessons of history?”
“Jein,” She says while gently putting her hand over my heart. I raise a brow and look at her hand over my heart and back to her. She continues, “Think, if Alista is prayed to only by Calastanians and Resolutionians and Alyano by Lizethians, then who do the rest pray to? Who do the Hayzelians pray to?” She stops closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, “Look with your heart to see the truth.” A surge of energy passes from her to me and suddenly a vision happens.
Cheryllynn's vivid imagination comes through in all she does in life. Her writing started in junior high, although she never truly shared her work until recently. They were kept hidden away in an old tattered orange folder. Original works she wrote as early as 1984 still hold ink on the pages and are just now coming to life. Paranormal and Fantasy are her favorite genres with Mystery and Thrillers close behind.Born in Northwest Florida and raised in Southeast Georgia she developed a love for nature and the outdoors. Her experiences outdoors allows her to create universes with vivid detail. After a detour of almost twenty years in the health care industry and obtaining her Bachelors of Science in Healthcare Administration/Healthcare Information Systems she has returned to her love of writing.
Currently living in Central Texas with her family, she has begun a new chapter in life that has opened her heart and soul to many great adventures. Her hobbies include fishing, crochet, gardening...and of course reading.
Goodreads ✯ Twitter ✯ Facebook ✯ Amazon ✯ Website ✯ Promo Blog ✯ Personal Blog ✯ Instagram ✯ Newsletter
MoB Promotions
GUARDIAN OF DREAMS Box Set
GUARDIAN OF DREAMS
Genre: Paranormal
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. Some stories are written in American, some in Canadian, and some in British English. The authors have chosen to stay true to their heritage.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. Some stories are written in American, some in Canadian, and some in British English. The authors have chosen to stay true to their heritage.
GUARDIAN OF DREAMS is a magnificent collection of angels, spirits and special abilities books, some full-length novels, some short enough to read in one sitting, all mesmerizing in their originality. Every single compelling story was hand-picked for your enjoyment. 13 worlds to make your own, 13 thrilling adventures, 13 new sets of heroes to root for. The perfect companion for late nights on the sofa, the perfect gift to those who enjoy a good read. Add it to your favorite kindle with one click now.
This box set includes a mix of already released and totally new novels and novellas, all complete works. Those books which are part of a series can be enjoyed fully without the need to read the complete series (though there is a chance you might develop story-addiction issues—for that, we apologize).
This box set includes a mix of already released and totally new novels and novellas, all complete works. Those books which are part of a series can be enjoyed fully without the need to read the complete series (though there is a chance you might develop story-addiction issues—for that, we apologize).
Voices of the Soul (Soul Seers #1) — Rene FolsomThroughout her entire life, Ella has heard voices. Voices inside her head. She's never given much thought as to why she has this gift… or this curse, depending on which way you look at it. It's not until she meets the mysterious Jonah that she begins to question her inherited abilities as a Soul Seer.
Aurora's Song — Cherime MacFarlaneA paranormal tale of spirits and legends. Algen is finally home after spending most of her teen years, and young adulthood in Washington State. She has never been clear on the reason she was sent to live with her father’s relatives. But she has a job she loves and can finally live in the place she loves. The Aurora Borealis fascinates her; Algen has missed the lights and winter terribly. The Grannies want her to be careful. Should she be wary of the new hire at the native corporation? She’s sure if he gets too close her heart is going to be in grave danger. The cultural anthropologist is pursuing her with the single-mindedness of a big predator. Gunrik is too smart, too much of a hunk and far too tempting.
Author's Note: There are various superstitions regarding the Aurora Borealis among the people groups of the far north. This story is based on those tales.
Dedicated to: Hella, gratefully. And to Sam Lightwood, who taught me to call the lights at 35 below zero.
Ameerah — Rebekkah FordI like to smoke, drink cocktails, and dance. I'm a flapper gal who had the best job working at a speakeasy. It was the bee's knees. But then my own family double-crossed me, taking everything from me. My freedom. My dignity. My life. Now, in death, I'll have my revenge, and I will show no mercy.
I am Ameerah. This is my story.
The Perfect Spirit — Traci Hayden28 year old writer, Vanessa Fortney, has travelled the world, living life to the fullest. When she comes home due to the unexpected death of her only blood relatives, she only has one regret; never finding a love that triumphs all others.
In a beautiful valley in the Rocky Mountains, Nessa finds herself wondering about a mysterious stranger who saved her after a nearly disastrous car accident. The mystery that surrounds Daniel is quickly replaced by the increasing attraction Nessa feels for him.
Will she find that love that transcends all love or will an unforeseen tragedy keep them apart?
The Snow Crystals — Kendra HaleThey glittered and sparkled in the soft white light of the full moon. They came slowly at first, then built up momentum. Like confetti tossed over a bride and groom at a wedding, the most perfect snow crystals fluttered and danced on the gentle breeze and descended on and around him. Instinctively, he knew that something magical had happened tonight.
The lives of best friends and cousins, Aidan and Donald, are largely successful in all but love. A Christmas shopping trip turns awry when a disturbed stalker latches onto them. Will they be able to escape her clutches and find real love, or will a woman with murder on her mind kill them both?
Snow Crystals is a sweet Christmas romance which takes the reader along on the trail of a mystery set in one of the most picturesque landscapes in Britain: the Cotswolds. Written in a no-nonsense voice, with beautiful descriptions, an addictive cast of characters and a light thriller touch, this book would be a perfect trip down memory lane or for those who love stories set in England. (Co-Written by Ella Medler)
A Gypsy's Kiss — Susan GriscomThere was no denying his remarkable skill with a hockey stick,
But it was his talents off the ice that caught Breena's eye.
Breena Cassidy
Cursed with what could be one of the worst supernatural abilities imaginable, Breena has never had the luxury of falling in love. Hell, she's never even held a guy's hand. At only twenty-two years old, she's just about given up on the whole love thing. After all, when you can see twelve hours of someone's future by a simple touch, and they, in turn, can see what you see, well... relationships are sort of out of the question. Her gigs performing psychic readings at parties, and the occasional one-on-one private appointment are just about Breena's only connection with people. No matter how much she might wish otherwise.
Hawk Covington
Hawk's hard body and skill have earned him a starting position on the Pioneer's college hockey team. But it's not his talent with a hockey stick that's the most remarkable. His gorgeous two-colored eyes not only draw the attention of every female on campus, they also allow him to track people and objects. But when he suddenly finds himself stalked by a stranger, he seeks out the help of the rumored, "campus gypsy" for help.
Despite his vow to stay single and play as many college women as he can while the fun lasts, Hawk can't ignore his attraction to the lovely and spirited Breena. And she can't get the hunky star hockey player out of her mind once a single touch of his hand reveals something utterly strange. Surrounded by mystery, they realize that fate has brought them together for a reason, but can they stay alive long enough to recognize the depth of their feelings for one another?
This is Breena's story. She was a child in all three books of Whisper Cape. She is now grown up with a story of her own, but you won't find any spoilers to Whisper Cape in A Gypsy's Kiss. 18+ due to adult situations.
Every Thorn — Rene FolsomGoing through life with no memory of her cruel past seems like the best way to survive. But when those memories begin to shadow her every move, she is forced to realize her fate.
While working her shifts at a local western bar, Brittany notices a mysterious man lurking in the shadows. Even though she’s used to being ogled, the man’s cryptic gifts unnerve her. They’re like puzzle pieces—hints that she is determined to understand.
When her admirer also begins to stalk her dreams, will Brittany continue to block out her past?
** This 9,300 word short story was originally published in “STALKERS: A Collection of Thriller Stories” and includes several ADULT bonus scenes never before seen. **
Cavanaugh Road — Michele E. GwynnOn a stormy afternoon in 1951, tragedy strikes ending the dreams of a teenage girl along a lonely stretch of country road in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The truth hidden, twenty years later, another life meets its fate on Cavanaugh Road. Jake Williams has little time left to enjoy his freedom. The threat of the draft looms as his eighteenth birthday passes. With his older brother, and his best friend already deployed to Vietnam, each day is a gift. He has his job at the diner and his brand new, used Javelin. The only thing missing is a girlfriend. One night, Jake spies a pretty blonde outside of the diner, but before he can reach her side, she disappears without a trace. Intrigued, he decides to find out who the new girl is, but fate steps in, delivering devastating news to his family, and issuing a summons he can’t ignore. Despairing and desperate, he takes off down Cavanaugh Road where a near-death car wreck changes his life. It’s there, injured and shaken, that Jake comes face to face with his destiny. The beautiful girl, the one who has captured his heart, is suddenly there to save him. She promises to take him home. But things are not what they seem, and long-held secrets begin to unravel right under Jake’s nose, within his own family. As his days grow shorter, the mystery deepens, and the answers lie around the bend, in an old family plot, on Cavanaugh Road.
A Beltane Gift — Holly BarboSummer in Scotland, and Mari is working on an archeological dig of a Viking burial ship during Beltane, a time of the year when the veil shrouding the spirit world thins. What could possibly go wrong?
A Beltane Gift won first prize in the PGP Short Story Competition in August 2015. It is also available as part of the anthologies Change of Tides and Tendrils.
Save My Soul — K.S. HaigwoodKendra Larkin had everything going in the right direction. Her life was seemingly perfect, and she wouldn't have changed a thing about it. Unfortunately, the course of her life was about to be forever altered. A tragic rappelling accident lands her on Dr. Adam Chamberlain's operating table.
She agrees to a deal proposed by a guardian angel to help save the soul of the man who is both her doctor and soulmate. If she is successful, she gets to keep her life. However, she later learns that it isn't just her life that's in jeopardy, but her soul as well.
Even with the help of her handsome guardian angel, Rhyan, it seems there is no happy ending in sight. Torn between her newly discovered love of Rhyan, and the undeniable attraction she has for Adam, Kendra finds herself at a crossroad. With Adam's steadfast rejection of God, and his guardian demon conspiring against her, she fears her soul may already be lost.
Will she find a way to overcome the evil her life is suddenly burdened with? Or will Adam's guardian demon win both their souls and make Kendra his own personal puppet in Hell?
Heaven Can Wait — Lynda Kaye FrazierAmy’s life was filled with heartache and loss. She searched for love, acceptance, and found it in a stranger, a drifter like herself. He loved her for her, but left, breaking her heart, but giving her life. Amy struggled against the evil that surrounded her to protect her daughter, but lost her battle, leaving her baby alone. She now fights God, and Michael, The Angel that broke her heart, to return to earth to protect her daughter from Satan himself. Will she be able to return home in time to save her daughter, or will a secret from her past keep her locked in her own private hell behind the gates of heaven?
Encounter — Cherime MacFarlaneShe never picks berries in the patch behind the cabin. That place almost makes her skin crawl. The old cabin has been in her family for generations. There is a mystery about the place the elders never said much about. All she knows it that a young couple living there vanished without a trace.
He's not sure what he is hunting for. After waking next to the totaled all-terrain vehicle, he doesn't even remember who he is. What he does know is that a stand of trees on a low hill is drawing him to them. Can he find shelter there or will he die in the Alaska bush? It's stupid, but he is going to make his way to the knoll.
Martin Little, Resurrected — Ella MedlerMartin's life is not going too well. It certainly takes a turn for the worse when he dies. At least now he can have some peace. His new friends are not the kind he would have picked in his life on Earth, but one can't be too choosy in the afterlife.
They break into Heaven, and it's all downhill from there.
Martin hurtles from mishap to disaster, and from calamity to complete FUBAR situation. Will the heavenly law catch up with him before he can save himself and his friends? Will he be able to make a deal with God? Will the love of his life give him a chance to explain how he felt or would he be doomed to play Roulette with Hades forever?
Thoroughly British, quirky and free, this fast-paced adventure through the heavenly realm is complete escapism, clean and fun, and a suitable read for the whole family.
And to think that it all started with a cup of hot chocolate…
Rene Folsom, author of paranormal romance and erotica, lives in Florida with her husband and three kids. She has officially diagnosed herself with creative ADD and often has a million and one writing projects going at once. In addition to writing, she is also a graphic artist who enjoys creating custom book covers for indie authors. She is definitely an artist at heart and would love nothing more than to be elbow deep in clay during her waking hours.
Rene believes that all fiction is based on some form of reality—otherwise we would never have the inspiration or knowledge to dream up the realistic situations we portray with our words. She is proud to say that her personal experiences have been inspirational, though perhaps not always identical to that of her fictional characters. Where reality and fantasy diverge, however, must remain her little secret...
Rene believes that all fiction is based on some form of reality—otherwise we would never have the inspiration or knowledge to dream up the realistic situations we portray with our words. She is proud to say that her personal experiences have been inspirational, though perhaps not always identical to that of her fictional characters. Where reality and fantasy diverge, however, must remain her little secret...
Cherime MacFarlane Although born in New Orleans, I am proud to call myself an Alaskan. I have lived here since 1977. I have seen -40 degrees, hauled water, made bear bacon and I live in a cabin. I have used a fishwheel to catch salmon coming up the Copper River. I was my second husband's chief mechanic's helper and roadie. I have cut firewood on shares. I worked as a cocktail waitress during pipeline days in a small lodge on the Richardson Highway.
My second husband, a Scot from Glasgow, was the love of my life. When I write Scots dialect, I personally experienced hearing it from my in laws. When my husband got on the phone to Scotland, after 5 seconds I could barely understand a word.
We moved to Wasilla to get warm. It barely drops past -25 degrees here in the winter. I became a paralegal and worked for over 26 years for the same firm.
Alaska is my home. I never thought I would love it so much, I never want to leave. The beauty of Alaska is a draw I cannot resist. I love the people and the history. I have been captured by a place I came to under duress. Life does play some interesting tricks on one. My love and I were not apart more than 24 hours for 20 plus years. I never wanted to be anywhere but with him. He was a man to run the river with and was my biggest fan.
My second husband, a Scot from Glasgow, was the love of my life. When I write Scots dialect, I personally experienced hearing it from my in laws. When my husband got on the phone to Scotland, after 5 seconds I could barely understand a word.
We moved to Wasilla to get warm. It barely drops past -25 degrees here in the winter. I became a paralegal and worked for over 26 years for the same firm.
Alaska is my home. I never thought I would love it so much, I never want to leave. The beauty of Alaska is a draw I cannot resist. I love the people and the history. I have been captured by a place I came to under duress. Life does play some interesting tricks on one. My love and I were not apart more than 24 hours for 20 plus years. I never wanted to be anywhere but with him. He was a man to run the river with and was my biggest fan.
Rebekkah Ford grew up in a family that dealt with the paranormal world. Her parents Charlie and Geri Wilhelm were the directors of the UFO Investigator's League in Fairfield, Ohio. They also investigated ghost hauntings and Bigfoot sightings in addition to extraterrestrial cases. Growing up in this type of environment and having the passion for writing stories is what drove Rebekkah at an early age to write tales dealing with the paranormal world. Her fascination with the unknown is what led her to write the Beyond the Eyes trilogy and Tangled Roots.
Rebekkah resides in rural North Dakota, in a farming community of about 1,800 and loves where she lives. She has an irreverent sense of humor, adores coffee, and yummy food makes her happy. She loves books, history, antiques, animals, connecting with her fans and other authors, and watching her favorite TV shows.
Rebekkah resides in rural North Dakota, in a farming community of about 1,800 and loves where she lives. She has an irreverent sense of humor, adores coffee, and yummy food makes her happy. She loves books, history, antiques, animals, connecting with her fans and other authors, and watching her favorite TV shows.
Traci Hayden My love for books began at a very small age. I lived inside the many worlds the local library could provide. The characters within those pages were my companions and my support when I needed someone most.
My imagination began to soar as I grew. I began writing small poems as a teenager, but never thought much about publishing or expanding beyond put my words to paper.
After my children were born, our love for a certain TV show fueled my love for writing. Using my children as inspiration, I began to write fanfiction, my children being the characters within the stories.
My passion for putting words to paper (or screen as is the norm now) has turned from passion to obsession. I’ve made some incredible friends through this journey and in turn, have become not only an author but a promoter and supporter for those whose imagination dreams character and worlds that I can lose myself in.
I thank my precious children, my beautiful soul-mate and my forever sister and best friend for being my constant rock and support as I continue to walk this road called life.
My imagination began to soar as I grew. I began writing small poems as a teenager, but never thought much about publishing or expanding beyond put my words to paper.
After my children were born, our love for a certain TV show fueled my love for writing. Using my children as inspiration, I began to write fanfiction, my children being the characters within the stories.
My passion for putting words to paper (or screen as is the norm now) has turned from passion to obsession. I’ve made some incredible friends through this journey and in turn, have become not only an author but a promoter and supporter for those whose imagination dreams character and worlds that I can lose myself in.
I thank my precious children, my beautiful soul-mate and my forever sister and best friend for being my constant rock and support as I continue to walk this road called life.
For Kendra Hale, who has lived in Canada, the USA and on the European Continent, Great Britain, or the UK, will always be home. Her love for the UK is apparent in The Snow Crystals, and her other/future books, which are all set here. Kendra’s knowledge and life-long interest in the world of antiques, collectibles and such, finds its way into her writing. She writes fiction in different genres.
Michele E. Gwynn is an Amazon Bestselling Multigenre Author of Crime/Detective books, Sci-Fi/Horror books, and Paranormal/Supernatural books in San Antonio. She previously wrote for newspapers, magazines, and online websites like Examiner.com (under the categories of Film, Animal Rights, and Sex and Relationships), Alwayz Therro Magazine, FashionErotica Digital, and more. As a journalist, she's covered news and events, and conducted countless celebrity interviews.
She has three series currently with several stand-alones, and more books coming! As if that weren't enough, she has published adult short stories under the pen name Xaviera Snow.
She resides in the small town of Schertz, Texas on the northeast side of San Antonio with her four felines who so graciously allow her to reside in their home.
She has three series currently with several stand-alones, and more books coming! As if that weren't enough, she has published adult short stories under the pen name Xaviera Snow.
She resides in the small town of Schertz, Texas on the northeast side of San Antonio with her four felines who so graciously allow her to reside in their home.
Holly Barbo's world is shaped by her love of her family, the beauty of the natural world in Northwest Washington State and an irrepressible creative drive.
Living where the scenery is incredible with a rich abundance of wildlife "is so special and soothing that it feels like a quiet kind of magic," according to Barbo. She is drawn to creating stories where there is just a bit of something unworldly, perhaps it is magic or psychic skills. Her stories are mostly in non-urban settings and usually have some focus on nature, building a discordant drama inside the peaceful frame.
Living where the scenery is incredible with a rich abundance of wildlife "is so special and soothing that it feels like a quiet kind of magic," according to Barbo. She is drawn to creating stories where there is just a bit of something unworldly, perhaps it is magic or psychic skills. Her stories are mostly in non-urban settings and usually have some focus on nature, building a discordant drama inside the peaceful frame.
Susan Griscom writes paranormal and contemporary romance. She's hooked on sexy romances and is a huge fan of superheroes and bad boys confronted with extraordinary forces of nature, powers, and abilities beyond the norm mixed with steamy romance, of course.
She loves those days when she gets to sit around in her sweat pants, doing nothing but writing emotionally charged stories about love and violence.
She lives in Northern California in wine country and one of her favorite weekend excursions is wine tasting with the love of her life. Together, she and her romantic husband have five great superhero kids and eight mini-superhero grand kids, so far.
She loves those days when she gets to sit around in her sweat pants, doing nothing but writing emotionally charged stories about love and violence.
She lives in Northern California in wine country and one of her favorite weekend excursions is wine tasting with the love of her life. Together, she and her romantic husband have five great superhero kids and eight mini-superhero grand kids, so far.
Lynda Kaye Frazier spends her days working for a group of Cardiologists doing ultrasounds, then each evening she’s in front of her computer, working on her next story. She grew up in Pennsylvania, but now lives in Arkansas where she enjoys the four seasons without a long, cold winter. She’s an avid reader of romantic suspense, which is the genre that she writes. Other than spending time with her family, her favorite things to do are writing, reading, listening to music, and—her most favorite—going to the beach. Surf, sand and a good book-her stress relief.
K. S. Haigwood is the author of the Save My Soul, Eternal Island and Moonrising series. By day, she is a CNC Machinist, but by night and weekend, she saves the world or destroys it in a single bound, depending on what mood she is in and if she has had her coffee. In addition to being an award winner for the 'Life Changing Read Award', she has also been nominated twice for Best Indie Book 2016 in the Paranormal category.
Characterization is one of K.S. Haigwood’s strongest points. You can understand each characters' predicaments and you can almost foresee their reactions. But. There’s always a but, with this author, because Haigwood can deliver enough twists and turns to turn a tornado on its head. Just as you think you’ve figured where the story is going next, she’s duped you again.
The whole of her novels are littered with good chuckle moments, and even in the darkest hour, the thinnest hint of a silver lining is still visible among the clouds.
Shock therapy for body and soul, delivered at a hundred miles an hour with the humor and charisma of a trendsetter, Haigwood is certain to be hailed the new wonder-drug to cure all ills.
Characterization is one of K.S. Haigwood’s strongest points. You can understand each characters' predicaments and you can almost foresee their reactions. But. There’s always a but, with this author, because Haigwood can deliver enough twists and turns to turn a tornado on its head. Just as you think you’ve figured where the story is going next, she’s duped you again.
The whole of her novels are littered with good chuckle moments, and even in the darkest hour, the thinnest hint of a silver lining is still visible among the clouds.
Shock therapy for body and soul, delivered at a hundred miles an hour with the humor and charisma of a trendsetter, Haigwood is certain to be hailed the new wonder-drug to cure all ills.
Ella Medler is a U.K. author and editor. She writes fiction in many genres in a seemingly vain attempt to slow down her overactive brain enough to write non-fiction on subjects she knows a thing or two about. She also does not believe in the starchy use of English and ignores the type of rule that doesn’t allow for a sentence to be finished in a preposition. Her books are action-driven, and well-developed characters are her forte. Loves: freedom. Hates: her inner censor.
MoB Promotions
DARK OF MIDNIGHT Box Set
DARK OF MIDNIGHT
2016 Halloween Collection
Genre: Paranormal
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. Some stories are written in American, some in Canadian, Australian, and some in British English. The authors have chosen to stay true to their heritage.
DARK OF MIDNIGHT is a magnificent collection of vampire and shifter paranormal books, some full-length novels, some shorter stories, each one fascinating. Every single compelling story was hand-picked for your enjoyment. 11 worlds to make your own, 11 thrilling adventures, 11 new sets of book boyfriends. The perfect companion for late nights on the sofa, the perfect gift to those who enjoy a good read. Add it to your favorite kindle with one click now.
This box set includes a mix of already released and totally new novels and novellas, all complete works. Those books which are part of a series can be enjoyed fully without the need to read the complete series (though there is a chance you might develop story-addiction issues—for that, we apologize).
Amazon US ✯ Amazon Int'l
United Service — Regina Morris
Sterling, a half-breed vampire, is the weakest link in the chain for his team, and he knows it.
He has a unique ability to glean information from inanimate objects, and his life is like CSI meets the West Wing, where key positions are held by vampires. Vampires can alter their age based on the amount of blood they consume, which should allow Sterling to blend into human society. However, his ability has painful side effects that cause him to live a lonely life down in the evidence room at FBI headquarters. He's a lonely bad-boy looking for love in all the wrong places.
His current case involves the kidnapping of vampire children by a religious cult who is trying to save them. Sterling snatches the opportunity to do some field work by teaming up with a purebred vampire, Kate, who is the nanny of one of the missing children. Sterling's world is turned upside down by Kate. She is everything Sterling could hope for in a mate and he wonders if she'd ever consider loving a half-breed.
Kate is beautiful, intelligent, charming and sophisticated. Kate has led a sheltered life and is considered handicapped by vampire standards. Could she possibly trust Sterling enough to share her dark personal secret with him? Together, can they save the kidnapped children and find true love for themselves?
Rhapsody in Red — Mila Waters
Calix Mabry had everything a vampire could ever want. A mate, eternal life, and enough money to sustain them for the rest of their lives. But when his beloved is taken from him, he vows to bring her back at any cost.
Enter Vivienne Peltier. Long legs. Deep red hair. She is everything his Sofia wasn’t. He is drawn to her like a moth to a flame.
Torn between his desire to bring Sofia back and his lust for Vivienne, Calix makes a decision that could potentially tear everything and everyone he knows apart.
True love always wins in the end. But at what cost?
Purrloined — Izzy Szyn
When Reese Temple applied at The Other World agency she thought it was going to be working as an assistant. Instead she has three men at her door claiming that she is their mate.
Dillon, Oliver and Ryan are part of a declining shifter race of lions, they need a mate. Their last resort is human females. But what they didn't count on is that they want Reese's heart, body and soul.
Fang-Filled Weekend — Izzy Szyn
What's a girl to do when she owes her estranged parents a ton of money?
Riley, Ricki and Reese are triplet sisters that have been screwed over by their parents and the courts.
In order to make enough money to pay their debts, they apply to the Other World Agency.
Is Riley just selling herself for sex? Or might this be the best job interview ever?
Uncharted Reality — Izzy Szyn
Ricki Temple always loved reality television. When she is given the chance to take part in a reality show, she doesn't think twice. But this show is on the planet Imhotep, starring Draco and Nyssa,
Imhotep's top reality stars. When her final audition is interrupted by someone that shouldn't want to do her harm, Draco, Nyssa and the mysterious Sir come to her rescue.
Join Ricki's adventure as she discovers close encounters of the sexy kind.
Hidden — Shalini Boland
On Madison Greene's sixteenth birthday, she inherits a mansion with sinister secrets. Sucked into a nightmare that spans the centuries, she must fight to save the ones she loves.
Alexandre is an eighteen-year-old French aristocrat with arrogance and charm. A single ill-judged kiss is all it takes to throw his life into danger, darkness . . . and the adventure of his life.
Together, Maddy and Alex are drawn into the past - toward their destruction.
The legend of the vampire has never been so gripping.
Tempted by a Vampire — Susan Griscom
Enter a world of temptation and lust, where rock stars are not only gorgeous and sexy, but they're also vampires.
Cian DeMarco, has lived in his beautiful mansion overlooking both the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean for the past seventy of his two-hundred and twenty years of his existence. Happily--or so he thought, preying on a different woman as often as his heart desires. Until the beautiful Magdalena De la Rosa sits down at one of the front-row tables in Club Royal where he and his band mates perform once a week. The scent of her blood has him completely undone and he's unable to contain his desire for her.
Magdalena De la Rosa has a new job and a gorgeous apartment in San Francisco. Everything is just the way she's imagined it could be... until she and her girlfriend find their way into an up scale night club and she's suddenly swept off her feet by a member of the rock band. Mesmerized by his gaze, his scent penetrates and embraces every cell of her body and she can't deny her own desires for him.
A temptation they can't resist, leads to a future they never imagined as sparks ignite between the two until a threat from Cian's past returns to wreak havoc on Cian's and Magdalena's lives.
Will the desire to be together outweigh the reality of what Cian must do to keep Magdalena safe?
Trust: A Twisted Wolf Tale — Rene Folsom
Beau Shapiro has spent his whole life being called gorgeous, handsome, sexy… every word imaginable to describe his outer appearance. But despite his popularity, he never once lets it all go to his head. He’s holding out for that one girl that has it all—beauty and personality.
While out searching for his father, Beau meets Karoline—a woman cursed to be a beast. Striking a deal with her to save his father’s life, Beau is taken to Karoline’s home deep in the mountainous woods to live with her. During his stay, he finds that there’s beauty within the beast, and slowly, for the first time in his life, falls in love.
Delve into the story of Beau and Karoline, a modern-day retelling of the classic tale Beauty and the Beast.
Lyon's Queen — S. Raven Storm
Cami Reign had no plans of returning home to her rural roots. But now after two years, she was on her way home to bury her father and deal with the estranged relationship between she and her mother. Cami had no idea that her life was about to change forever, as family secrets, lies and murders would reveal themselves along with the knowledge of her upcoming marriage to a man she never met.
Lyon Winters, strong, handsome and rich, believed in family and land. When the contract of his marriage was brought to his attention, he knew the honorable thing to do was to honor it. What he didn’t expect was the small, city girl who had no knowledge of the land or her people. It was up to him to show her the way, without getting lost himself.
Midnight Moonrising — K.S. Haigwood
Mena wants the Master Vampire of Montgomery, Alabama, but the wolf inside her craves the human homicide detective working the case of the man she murdered.
Darkness Stalks the Night — Bruce Blake
A vampire fears nothing. Humans occupy the top of the food chain and they are a vampire's prey, so what can there be for them to be afraid of? But maybe there is more lurking in the night than we know. Maybe there is something worse.
Regina Morris I am the author of the sensual paranormal romances that make up the COLONY series where a covert team of sexy vampires protect the President.
I love paranormal romances featuring vampires, but my personal taste is light-hearted and humorous – not horrific and gory.
I live in Austin, Texas with my husband and two children. I enjoy meeting with my monthly critique writing groups and meeting other writers in the Austin area through the WLT events.
I have lived in many different parts of the world. I graduated high school in Germany and I attended the University of Texas at Austin where I received a degree in Computer Science with a minor in math.
Besides writing, I am an amateur portrait and sports photographer. After enjoying a career in the software engineering business, I discovered that writing is in my blood, and had to put pen to paper!
Once an avid reader, Mila Waters brings her love of creating fictional worlds to the written word. She is fascinated by space and time travel, bringing both elements into her science fiction and paranormal creations. Stay tuned for what will be considered a wild roller coaster ride.
New York Times Bestselling Author Izzy Szyn was born in May of 2014 when a friend dared her to write. Born and raised in Detroit, Mi., Izzy now lives in Oklahoma City with her furchild Misty, the friendliest Chihuahua/Terrier you will ever meet. Currently works in a call center, where she writes in between phone calls.
Shalini Boland lives in Dorset, England with her husband and two noisy boys. Before kids, she was signed to Universal Music Publishing as a singer/songwriter, but now she spends her days writing suspense thrillers and dark adventures (in between doing the school run and hanging out endless baskets of laundry).
Susan Griscom writes paranormal and contemporary romance. She's hooked on sexy romances and is a huge fan of superheroes and bad boys confronted with extraordinary forces of nature, powers, and abilities beyond the norm mixed with steamy romance, of course.
She loves those days when she gets to sit around in her sweat pants, doing nothing but writing emotionally charged stories about love and violence.
She lives in Northern California in wine country and one of her favorite weekend excursions is wine tasting with the love of her life. Together, she and her romantic husband have five great superhero kids and eight mini-superhero grand kids, so far.
Rene Folsom, author of paranormal romance and erotica, lives in Florida with her husband and three kids. She has officially diagnosed herself with creative ADD and often has a million and one writing projects going at once. In addition to writing, she is also a graphic artist who enjoys creating custom book covers for indie authors. She is definitely an artist at heart and would love nothing more than to be elbow deep in clay during her waking hours.
Rene believes that all fiction is based on some form of reality—otherwise we would never have the inspiration or knowledge to dream up the realistic situations we portray with our words. She is proud to say that her personal experiences have been inspirational, though perhaps not always identical to that of her fictional characters. Where reality and fantasy diverge, however, must remain her little secret...
S. Raven Storm is a native New Yorker, who currently moved from Goldsboro, NC to Dover DE. She holds a BS degree in business management and English literature. She writes erotic and other genres of romance and poetry. S. Raven Storm released her first novel titled: Someone for Me in April 2015 under the now defunct, Platinum Pearl Publications. The Amazon EBook has a five star rating with great reviews. Currently she released the self-published Someone for Me 2 Tina’s Turn, which released December 29, 2015. She is now in the middle of the final book of the Someone for Me trilogy, Someone for Me 3 Stone’s Story. She came in 2nd place for Smexiest 2015 Erotic Romance Novel for Someone for Me. She brings the heat and is famous for her iconic trademark color purple. Her branding slogan of "Feel the heat” and “If it ain't naughty, it ain't nice." has become synonymous with her body of work.
K. S. Haigwood is the author of the Save My Soul, Eternal Island and Moonrising series. By day, she is a CNC Machinist, but by night and weekend, she saves the world or destroys it in a single bound, depending on what mood she is in and if she has had her coffee. In addition to being an award winner for the 'Life Changing Read Award', she has also been nominated twice for Best Indie Book 2016 in the Paranormal category.
Characterization is one of K.S. Haigwood’s strongest points. You can understand each characters' predicaments and you can almost foresee their reactions. But. There’s always a but, with this author, because Haigwood can deliver enough twists and turns to turn a tornado on its head. Just as you think you’ve figured where the story is going next, she’s duped you again.
The whole of her novels are littered with good chuckle moments, and even in the darkest hour, the thinnest hint of a silver lining is still visible among the clouds.
Shock therapy for body and soul, delivered at a hundred miles an hour with the humor and charisma of a trendsetter, Haigwood is certain to be hailed the new wonder-drug to cure all ills.
Bruce Blake lives on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. When pressing issues like shovelling snow and building igloos don't take up his spare time, Bruce can be found taking the dog sled to the nearest coffee shop to work on his short stories and novels.
Actually, Victoria, B.C. is only a couple hours north of Seattle, Wash., where more rain is seen than snow. Since snow isn't really a pressing issue, Bruce spends more time trying to remember to leave the "u" out of words like "colour" and "neighbour" than he does shovelling (and watch out for those pesky double l's). The father of two, Bruce is also the trophy husband of a burlesque diva.
I SEE YOU by A.P. Hallmark
I SEE YOU
by A.P. Hallmark
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Content Warning: open door sex
In Book 1, I’ll Be Seeing You, Joy Johnson learns of Matthew’s secret plan that concerns her. She thought he was the love of her life, but her world is shattered when she discovers she has been betrayed, not only by the man she loves, but her life-long friends as well. Taking the time to heal and mend her broken heart, Joy slowly begins to forgive.
Unfortunately, the handsome doctor’s wicked and devious ex-fianceé, Emma Ford, has different plans. Emma, who was the catalyst of the destruction of Joy and Matthew’s relationship, simply refuses to go away. What she doesn’t know is that her scheming and conniving only solidify the two lovers’ bond.
Dr. Matthew Davis has the knowledge to make Joy see for the first time in fourteen years. Will she allow her Doctor to perform this miracle, or will Emma get to her first?
It's been one hell of a week, and I still haven't heard from Joy. If I haven’t heard from her in another week, I plan to call her. Today, my parents and I are going to look at the building next door to the hospital. The owners accepted my offer with the provision it passes inspection, and today we are meeting with the inspector.
While I'm in my home office, organizing my files and dictating notes from my recent surgery, my phone rings. My heart immediately thunders in my chest when I recognize Joy's ringtone. In my haste to answer the phone, I knock the damn thing onto the floor, and then fumble with it like it's a hot potato. I can’t help but roll my eyes at myself at the comical scene.
Her call is for the sole purpose of getting her things back that she left at my house.
Explaining that I have an obligation this afternoon, we agree to meet at five-thirty. I consider cancelling the meeting with the building inspector, but I know how important this is to my parents, so I’ll have to meet her later in the day.
I can barely contain myself and rush to the kitchen where I find my parents making lunch.
"Joy called." They both snap around and look at me in anticipation. "I'm meeting her today at five-thirty, after we're done with the building inspector."
"Oh, thank the Lord," Mom says, looking at the heavens. "I knew she would call."
"Don't get your hopes up," I say with a hint of pessimism. "She only asked me to bring her things to her."
"Well, it's a start, son," Dad adds affectionately, putting his arm around my shoulder. I nod in agreement and try to muster up a sincere smile. My gut is telling me not to get too excited.
"Jessie said that Laura and Brian emailed her and received only short replies," I say, leaning against the counter to see what they’re making. "It will be a miracle if she forgives. I conspired behind her back — that's pretty much a deal breaker even for the most secure couples."
"She loves you, Matthew," Mom says quietly. "She won't give up on you. I'm certain of it. Come, let’s eat so we can meet the inspector."
After a quick lunch, we head to the new office and tour the building, floor by dirty floor. I'm glad I came in low on my offer, because this is going to require a lot of work, and work means money. After spending several hours there, I keep glancing at my watch, getting antsy out of fear of being late to meet Joy.
"Go, Matthew. Your father and I can handle this. You don't want to be late. We'll let you know what the inspector says when you get home tonight." It doesn't take much persuading before I’m out the door and on my way to Joy's apartment.
To say I have butterflies in my stomach is an understatement; I have anything with wings flying around in there. I've never been so nervous in my life.
Pulling up to the curb in front of her building, I park on the street where I can see the café. I can see her table in the window and inwardly smile at the memory of our first meeting there. Retrieving her belongings from the trunk of my car, I run up the stairs leading to the inside security door. After I press the buzzer, I hear her sweet voice.
"Yes?" she responds, her voice nearly quivering. Whether it’s from fear or anxiety, I haven’t a clue. I just know I don’t like it.
After letting her know it's me, and she buzzes me in. The closer I get to her door, the more my nerves turn into a knotted mess in my stomach.
I quietly knock and the door opens under the light pressure. Entering, I see her standing there, behind the protection of a chair.
She looks tired, sad and beautiful.
Walking to the kitchen counter to place her bag of belongings there, I find the dress, necklace and earrings I gave her as a gift. My body nearly shuts down on me.
My heart shatters.
I can't breathe.
She's leaving me.
Amazon ✯ Amazon Int'l
Amazon
She thought he was the love of her life, but Joy’s world is broken when she discovers she has been betrayed not only by the man she loves, but her life-long friends as well. Taking the time to heal and mend her heart, with great effort, Joy slowly begins to forgive as well.
Unfortunately, the handsome doctor’s wicked and devious ex-fianceé, Emma Ford, who was the catalyst of the destruction of Joy and Matthew’s relationship, refuses to go away. What Emma doesn’t know is that her scheming and conniving only solidifies the two lovers’ bond.
Dr. Matthew Davis has the knowledge to make Joy Johnson see for the first time in fourteen years, but her refusal to go under the knife again prevents this from happening.
Will Joy allow her Doctor to perform this miracle, or will Emma get to her first?
A.P. Hallmark resides in Reno, Nevada, near her youngest daughter and four grandchildren. A paralegal in real life, she started her love of reading at the young age of fifteen, beginning with her first Harlequin Romance … and Fabio.
Her male characters are strong and possessive, her women are strong and feminine. With two powerful lead characters, her stories are filled with adventure, romance, and sometimes their will to be the last one standing gives her readers a fun ride.
Facebook ✯ Amazon ✯ Goodreads ✯ Twitter ✯ Instagram
MoB Promotions
October 21, 2016
Depression
October is supposedly awareness month for the illness, depression, so I thought I'd post a little something.
I am well aware of how depression can be debilitating and struggle to shake it off every single day and have done for many years.
Unless you suffer from it, it is impossible to know how it feels. There is a stigma involved and many criticise with words and phrases such as - get a grip, stop wallowing, get over it, malingerer, snap out of it...
If only it were that easy.
I posting this because next month is the worst for me, as November hammers in all the negative parts of my life and reminds me of what I have lost.
I'll not go into details, I am not looking for sympathy, only that sometimes it is wise to be aware of how depression can kill not only the spirit but our physical being.
Most of the time I try to concentrate on what is positive, but this is not easy, as my mind constantly tells me there is nothing positive.
But, of course there is - my hubby, my family, friends that I know through writing, and my writing.
Reading helps, as does creating things (writing, designing, publishing, artwork, jewellery making and more). The garden, too, might knacker me and make all my joints ache, but the exercise is brilliant. It helps me think about my stories, too - what shall I do with...how will that work...?
However, I've felt the walls closing in and that vat of treacle drowning me because of those in power and their unreasonable and cruel decisions.
1 - The British government is presently cutting all monies to those in need, so that the vulnerable - disabled, poor - are even worse off. I care for my disabled husband and hate how he has to suffer, yet the powers that be insist he doesn't need as much help as we say. Ha - he has several chronic illnesses and needs constant care and is getting worse.
2 - Amazon has decided to push independent authors even further down the well due to their new policies - no reviews without sales, no reviews with sales if it's suspected you know the buyer /author, authors cannot review other authors, existing reviews are vanishing...
I can only hope that Goodreads doesn't follow suit, as they are now run my Amazon.
So, my hope of making it as a successful author is absolutely impossible now. I have no money for promotion, I cannot give away review copies,
and, I cannot even review for others - this I like to do because I understand the struggle.
I will never be able to help those I love.
***
What is the problem?
Governments appear to want all the poor and disabled to die. They need the money for the rich and the bankers who have wasted so much and made too many mistakes and someone has to pay.
This is evident in everything I've read and witnessed.
I understand that some people do 'play the system' and that it's good to stop that, but really, the private firms who have been hired to re-evaluate disabilities have no idea what those disabilities are and the needs of the people that suffer. In one statement, an 'evaluator' said they disagreed with all the medical evidence, therefore... These people are not qualified!
***
It appears that Amazon doesn't want to make profits from independent authors and prefers to be in league with traditional publishing houses (who incidentally pay for reviews).
I have researched this and seen the decline, and watched how traditional publishing houses constantly suppress those in competition, criticising in every way they can, while Amazon back them up.
***
Maybe Amazon will now ban me from even publishing my stories on Kindle now for speaking out?
***
I don't know the answers, but I understand how more and more people are diagnosed with depression. This world is harsh and becoming more so.
Yes, I'm depressed, but it's not like a 'fed up, pull myself together' thing, I feel like nothing is good anymore. Those above want us to die, those below want to steal what little we have, those in power want it all.
I've lost hope. But maybe that's a good thing, as sometimes hope hurts more than just accepting our poor place in the world.
Yes, maybe this sounds like a pity party, um, well, it wasn't my intention. Sometimes it's good to moan. So okay, I'm angry at the injustice, sad I've lost so much, guilty that I have to watch others suffer, desperate to help but completely helpless - this adds up to depression.
Maybe I'm crazy - they do say that repeating the same thing and expecting a different result is insanity.
Or maybe I should just snap out of it?
I am well aware of how depression can be debilitating and struggle to shake it off every single day and have done for many years.
Unless you suffer from it, it is impossible to know how it feels. There is a stigma involved and many criticise with words and phrases such as - get a grip, stop wallowing, get over it, malingerer, snap out of it...
If only it were that easy.
I posting this because next month is the worst for me, as November hammers in all the negative parts of my life and reminds me of what I have lost.
I'll not go into details, I am not looking for sympathy, only that sometimes it is wise to be aware of how depression can kill not only the spirit but our physical being.
Most of the time I try to concentrate on what is positive, but this is not easy, as my mind constantly tells me there is nothing positive.
But, of course there is - my hubby, my family, friends that I know through writing, and my writing.
Reading helps, as does creating things (writing, designing, publishing, artwork, jewellery making and more). The garden, too, might knacker me and make all my joints ache, but the exercise is brilliant. It helps me think about my stories, too - what shall I do with...how will that work...?
However, I've felt the walls closing in and that vat of treacle drowning me because of those in power and their unreasonable and cruel decisions.
1 - The British government is presently cutting all monies to those in need, so that the vulnerable - disabled, poor - are even worse off. I care for my disabled husband and hate how he has to suffer, yet the powers that be insist he doesn't need as much help as we say. Ha - he has several chronic illnesses and needs constant care and is getting worse.
2 - Amazon has decided to push independent authors even further down the well due to their new policies - no reviews without sales, no reviews with sales if it's suspected you know the buyer /author, authors cannot review other authors, existing reviews are vanishing...
I can only hope that Goodreads doesn't follow suit, as they are now run my Amazon.
So, my hope of making it as a successful author is absolutely impossible now. I have no money for promotion, I cannot give away review copies,
and, I cannot even review for others - this I like to do because I understand the struggle.
I will never be able to help those I love.
***
What is the problem?
Governments appear to want all the poor and disabled to die. They need the money for the rich and the bankers who have wasted so much and made too many mistakes and someone has to pay.
This is evident in everything I've read and witnessed.
I understand that some people do 'play the system' and that it's good to stop that, but really, the private firms who have been hired to re-evaluate disabilities have no idea what those disabilities are and the needs of the people that suffer. In one statement, an 'evaluator' said they disagreed with all the medical evidence, therefore... These people are not qualified!
***
It appears that Amazon doesn't want to make profits from independent authors and prefers to be in league with traditional publishing houses (who incidentally pay for reviews).
I have researched this and seen the decline, and watched how traditional publishing houses constantly suppress those in competition, criticising in every way they can, while Amazon back them up.
***
Maybe Amazon will now ban me from even publishing my stories on Kindle now for speaking out?
***
I don't know the answers, but I understand how more and more people are diagnosed with depression. This world is harsh and becoming more so.
Yes, I'm depressed, but it's not like a 'fed up, pull myself together' thing, I feel like nothing is good anymore. Those above want us to die, those below want to steal what little we have, those in power want it all.
I've lost hope. But maybe that's a good thing, as sometimes hope hurts more than just accepting our poor place in the world.
Yes, maybe this sounds like a pity party, um, well, it wasn't my intention. Sometimes it's good to moan. So okay, I'm angry at the injustice, sad I've lost so much, guilty that I have to watch others suffer, desperate to help but completely helpless - this adds up to depression.
Maybe I'm crazy - they do say that repeating the same thing and expecting a different result is insanity.
Or maybe I should just snap out of it?
October 19, 2016
Fireworks
Well okay, there is the 5th of November for fireworks, but when you think about it, it's all based on someone's death, someone who was supposedly in a plot to blow up the government in 1605.
Um, no comment.
For those who don't live in Britain or have heard of the Gunpower Plot - the 'baddie' was Guy Fawkes (one of 13 conspirators). They were a group of Catholics, led by Robert Catesby, who decided that they'd had enough of being persecuted so plotted...
Apparently, this group stored 36 barrels of gunpowder in the cellar under the House Of Lords.
Some had second thoughts and sent an anonymous letter of warning. Guy Fawkes was the one supposedly caught next to the barrels so was tortured then executed.
Bonfires were lit around the country to celebrate the safety of the king (James 1).
There have been many a theory about this, and some wondering as to whether it was a celebration of Guy Fawkes' execution or honouring his attempt to do away with the government?
***
Anyway, there are better things to light our fires in my opinion.
November is not a good month for me (personal reasons) so writing is a wonderful medium where I can allow my mind to dwell on things other than the depressing part.
Reading, too, is a fantastic way of escaping the real stuff - reality stinks!
There are so many genres /sub-genres for stories and we all have our favourites.
I thought I'd post some of my recent reads that have messed with my mind - in a brilliant way.
The Disembodied by Anth ony Hains
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Disembodied-...
Review:
I loved this book! The story is extremely well written and is original and powerful.
The style of writing pulls you in at once and the subject matter is intriguing, mystifying and compelling - of course, it all makes sense in the end and what an ending!
The originality stems from how the subject is tackled, and it's powerful because of issues such as abuse, mental illness, loss, coping with death, friendships, guilt and much more.
Brilliant characters - Soren, Griffin and Tanner are superb and make this story believable, realistic and heartfelt.
The author understands a great deal about mental illness and it is portrayed in a haunting and somewhat paranormal way.
This is an amazing, if disturbing tale, and I highly recommend it.
***
The Survivor Diaries (4 Book Series)
by Lynn Lamb
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Survivor-Dia...
width="40" height="100" alt="description"/>Review:
I have written separate reviews for each of these books, however, here is an overview of the set.
In a word - brilliant!
There have been numerous books written about 'the apocalypse', but this one is expertly done and should grab your heart and mind so that you'll stay up into the wee hours for 'just one more chapter'.
Why?
- It is written in diary form so that we get all the thoughts and feelings of the inner turmoil, plus the 'facts', in-depth descriptions and sense of place.
- The logistics of such a harrowing event are intelligently and humanely done so that it all makes sense and comes from the heart.
- Themes such as loss, grief, torture, insanity, rape, good v evil and love bring even more depth and 'reality' to this story.
- There is a diverse cast of characters - all believable, if not all liked - some even hated and despised.
- The writing style is compelling (despite the typos).
- Laura - writer of the diary - is a strong woman, who not only understands what must be done, constantly fights to keep her humanity, all the while wondering - why am I the leader?
- There are many lessons to be learned without the feel of 'lecturing' - some great wisdom.
- It is an epic tale that will squeeze your heart in terror, anger and intense dislike, yet it constantly reminds us that the light in our souls must be kept intact.
Overall, an amazing story - both enjoyable and horrific, with a thread of humour throughout.
Although it is a complete story, there is note that book five is on the horizon - hope it's soon.
Highly recommended!!!
***
Heaven (a dystopian virtual reality science fiction world): Death is when it all begins (Heaven: a dystopian cyber science fiction Book 1
by L. L. Fine
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dystopian-vi...
Review:
This story has an unusual and original concept of what may become of the human race. It is well-written with a thread of humour, and is certainly quirky.
I did enjoy it and was intrigued by the range of ideas and issues, such as immortality, rich v poor, teenage angst, loss, betrayal, grief, guilt, unrequited love, intelligence and much more...
Overall, a thought-provoking, clever tale.
***
I have read all three of the series - all brilliant - here's the first one.
Blood of the King (Khirro's Journey Book 1)
by Bruce Blake
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blood-King-K...
Review:
Khirro, a farmer, is plunged into war and feels like an unworthy soldier, however, events force his hand into the unexpected - a journey deep into the unknown on a seemingly impossible task. His past is a mystery and one that may not be all he thinks it is.
It's great to see his development and how he tackles each problem and the differences it makes to him and the others he meets. The consequences of his actions (and that of others) will change lives forever.
This superbly written tale is filled with magic, adventure, suspense, mystery and fabulous imagery.
I don't give spoilers, so it's not easy to say much, but if you love imaginative fantasy, with a strong storyline and amazing characters, then this book is for you - you'll want more!
Highly recommended.
***
The Spider by Maria Savva
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spider-Maria...
Review:
As always, Maria Savva writes with skill, stories that immediately hook you - The Spider is no exception.
It's not easy saying too much without spoilers, but I will say that this story is spooky, mysterious, intriguing and thought-provoking. The characters are well-developed, realistic and believable, despite the fantasy /paranormal story line.
Its descriptions are deliciously atmospheric and...ooh, I can't say anything else...read it for yourself, you won't regret it.
Recommended read!!!
***
The Diary of the Displaced by Glynn James
I have read all in the series so far - superb - here is number one -
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Diary-Displa...
Review:
An enjoyable and well-written written fantasy story about a man who finds himself trapped in a dark and mysterious world.
There are zombies and other strange inhabitants that wander The Corridor and James must figure out where his is and why, while trying to survive...the answers are surprising.
The story did remind me of another series by Brian Harmon (Rushed), where the protagonist travels the worlds of the Unseen; this was excellent, too.
Great storytelling, characters and plot, alongside an imaginative sense of place.
Recommended.
***
I have read all in the series so far - here is the latest:
Black Dawn: Action-Packed Revenge & Gripping Vigilante Justice (Angel of Darkness Thriller, Noir & Hardboiled Crime Fiction Book 9)
by Steve N Lee
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Black-Dawn-A...
Review:
I was lucky enough to be given this latest story to read and really enjoyed it. Despite missing the last book, it didn't detract from the overall story and once again it was great to see Tess in action.
This installment sees more of Tess' vulnerable side, as her past comes to haunt her. Had she made a mistake? What was she to do? And hadn't she finished with this violent life? Couldn't she for once dampen those demons and save rather than execute?
It's not easy to say much without giving spoilers, but I will say that this gritty, fast-paced thriller has many sides - disturbing, superhero, vigilante, justice and a complex woman struggling with numerous choices, thoughts and feelings.
Very well done.
Highly recommended.
***
I have read the trilogy - here is number one -
White Hart (White Hart series #1)
by Sarah Dalton
https://www.amazon.co.uk/White-Hart-1...
Review:
Mae is about to have her life thrown into an unexpected direction...or is it totally unexpected?
I really enjoyed this well-written fantasy, one of magic, adventure, friendship, love, terror, deceit and nature, where difference is suspect and superstition rife. Are the old laws right, will a craft-born bring what is desperately needed - are there any left?
Great characters - both good and bad - and I liked the first person narrative, which brought fabulous insight and depth to the story.
No spoilers from me, but I will recommend this tale to those who appreciate brilliant storytelling. You will definitely want to read the other two in the set - on my list.
***
Yep, read them all - here's the first - although this is a stand alone prequel and not necessary to the series but well worth reading.
The Shadow (The Legend Of The Gate Keeper Book 0) by Jeff Gunzel
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shadow-Legen...
***
So here are a few of my recommended reads to bring warmth to your belly and spark some fireworks in your brain.
Oh yes, then there are mine LOL
![[image error]](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5XpNZ7u5hY/WAl2nyT9bnI/AAAAAAAAO_A/oTDCyru9r8cMOLiIPiOgtGWHZTmHDlZCACLcB/s1600/Calastan%2BGreat%2BMother%2Bteaser.gif){kind=link}