Julie Elizabeth Powell's Blog, page 75
March 2, 2016
Midnight Burn Steven N Lee
Midnight Burn: A Vigilante Serial Killer Action Thriller by Steve N. LeeMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I'm loving this series, mainly because of Tess, a strong yet vulnerable character, whose goal is to bring some justice to the world.
It's certainly a series not for the faint-hearted, as each story is set within a world of hard boiled crime and gruesome scenes. This one no exception when a young woman is brutally murdered.
Tess' past is also haunting her, the reason for her current 'occupation'... it will be interesting to see how this plays out (as well as another new development).
Overall, a well written fast-paced read, which hooked me from the beginning to end.
Highly recommended.
View all my reviews
March 1, 2016
This is a release tour for Melting His Alaskan Heart by Rebecca Thomas
MELTING HIS ALASKAN HEART
Author: Rebecca Thomas
Official genre of book: Contemporary romance
Editor: MK Books Editing
Cover Designer: Yocla Designs
Backgound Picture in banner is provided by MMF
When Ethan Forrester’s hockey star brother begs him to take his place at a masquerade fundraiser due to illness, Ethan grudgingly agrees to help the cause. After all, he’ll be wearing a mask that covers the scar across his eye. No one will know his true identity.
Sports journalist Carly Hughes will do whatever it takes to procure the interview no one else can get from the NHL Stanley cup winning captain. After a few drinks she confesses her need for an exclusive interview or she’ll be fired. Ethan knows his brother as well as he knows himself—spilling a few details should keep the man’s privacy intact—mostly.
However, when their interview moves to the penthouse suite, Ethan tries to explain he’s not the Forrester brother she’s looking for, but Carly insists he keep his mask on.
Daylight brings some harsh truths, and a serious hangover. Carly not only forgot to record her interview, but she wakes up with a stranger in her bed. Or was this case of mistaken identity the best thing that’s ever happened to her?
Completely unskilled at basic flirting, Ethan decided keeping his mouth shut and his eyes averted would be the best course of action. Quit trying to say what Dane would say, just make an appearance and leave.
She ordered a Long Island iced tea before turning her attention back to Ethan and extended her hand. “I’m Carly Hughes.”
Ethan swallowed before grasping her hand. Partially hidden behind a mask, her eyes gleamed with the most brilliant shade of green. “Eee—Dane Forrester, nice to meet you.”
“Are you enjoying the party?” she asked.
He unclasped his hand from hers. A bolt of something sizzling hot passed between them. Reaching for a lifeline, he embraced his mug with interlacing fingers and hung on tight. “Yes.”
“I just moved to Anchorage, but I figured a literacy council charity event sponsored by the Alaska Fury would be a great way to meet people.” She readjusted her bottom in her barstool and crossed her legs, bumping his shin in the process. “Excuse me.”
Ethan gave a curt nod and chugged his beer. He had to admit being hidden behind the knight’s half-mask was a nice benefit. He didn’t have to feel self-conscious about this scarred face. He wasn’t one for social engagements anyway, but he willed himself to relax.
The bartender returned with her Long Island iced tea. “That’ll be twelve fifty.”
Carly reached for her purse, opened it up and rifled through its contents. “Oh, my goodness, did I…I think I forgot my wallet.”
Ethan stood up and dug out his wallet. He hadn’t forgotten all his manners. “Please, allow me.”
“All right.” She put her purse away.
“Sorry, I should have offered in the first place,” Ethan mumbled, opening up his wallet. “I don’t get out much.”
She cocked an eyebrow above the edge of her mask. “You, Dane Forrester, don’t get out much?”
“I mean, I haven’t been out lately—as in a few days. I mean I…” Ethan decided he’d be better off making a hasty retreat. “Forget I ever said that. I’m distracted.” He held his empty mug an extra three seconds before setting it down. Maybe more alcohol would numb his embarrassment. He called out to the bartender, “Could I get another Bud, please?”
Why on God’s snow-covered earth did he ever agree to this charade? He wasn’t good at being Ethan Forrester—let alone Dane Forrester. He wasn’t good at being anyone other than a part-time fireman and half-assed welder.
Rebecca Thomas enjoys a love-hate relationship with Alaska. She lives there with her husband and two teenaged sons. When she isn’t reading, writing, or playing board games, she is cheering for her sons at their hockey games and tennis matches.
A reluctant reader as a child, she didn’t become interested in books until her teen years when she discovered historical romance. Now she loves all sub-genres of romance and can’t decide which one is her favorite.
Rebecca earned a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Alaska and was employed in the airline industry for several years before working in her current position as a program manager in a higher education.
This is a promo blitz for Triangle of Hope by Michael Meyer
Genre: Contemporary fiction/literary fiction
Feel-good contemporary fiction. Change is in the air.
Who knew that a chance encounter would change their lives, and the lives around them, forever? Three unlikely allies come together to take a selfless, courageous stand, and their world will never again be the same.
Clint Westerly has it all; that is, until he makes a fateful decision that turns his life upside down.
Tanya Wilshire has sheer determination to fulfill her mother's dying wish, although she seemingly has now lost the means to do so.
Seamus Harrington, eighty-four years of age, is determined to right an old wrong before it is too late, even though the odds are heavily stacked against him.
If you love feel-good reads with happy endings, then don't miss TRIANGLE OF HOPE, where "Meyer was masterful in weaving the story lines of the three main characters into a conclusion which was exactly what the title suggests...a Triangle of Hope." (Jon Colson)
"A book that will stay with you forever." (Wanda Hartzenberg)
His impending death hung in the air like thick smog, smothering everything in its path, obscuring a parade of ups and downs, the unevenness of thrills and chills that defined his life’s existence. It was eerie and scary, but also rather comforting, much like being in a warm bed on a cold night, like shivering while being filled with excitement at what was going to happen next. The news could very easily have been broadcast to those of his past and present, but he had made certain that all the speakers had been turned to mute. He had made the firm decision to meet his destiny without any chance of intervention by anyone. He was all alone in this, his final act.
This is a release blast for 5 Kindle World spinoffs books
THE REMINGTONS join the LOVE IN BLOOM series by New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author Melissa Foster. This 5-book steamy contemporary romance series features alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women. They're flawed, funny, passionate, and very relatable to readers who enjoy new adult romance, contemporary romance, and women's fiction.
18 incredible authors have written spinoff books based on characters from different books in the LOVE IN BLOOM series. These books are all featured through the Kindle World. Enjoy the first installment of these books.
ENJOY the first installment of these books by these incredible authors.
Talented video game designer Safire Chu is gun-shy when it comes to dating real men, especially since she spends all her time shooting at their avatars.
Football player Gunner Gibson is nothing but trouble, according to the Remingtons—especially since he tried to use Siena Remington to clean up his bad boy image.
Now, Gunner wants to cheat on an online video game, so he asks Safire to a New Year’s Eve party while his publicist hacks into the game database through Safire’s computer.
A bit of champagne and the countdown to the ball drop loosens Safire’s inhibitions. When her company’s newest secret game is pirated, Safire wonders if the man she’s fallen for at first blush is not all he seems.
No way. It can’t be. The Gunner Gibson?
Safire Chu blinked and blinked, but the man standing at her apartment door seemed like the real thing—three dimensional, oozing with charm and was that a whiff of cologne? Three-dimensional avatars, well, actually 3D projected on 2D screens didn’t smell like sex and spice and woods and oh gosh, they didn’t stand at her door with a bouquet of red roses.
“You must have the wrong apartment.” Safire found her voice which managed to eek from her throat in a tiny squeak.
“You are Miss Safire Chu, aren’t you?” the man god in front of her insisted.
“Uh, sure, if you say so.” She fumbled with her tongue as her brain busily catalogued his dark, smooth hair, his chiseled angular face, his lady-killer eyes, and all of the features she’d need for her latest superhero video game avatar.
Yes, she was a video game designer, and she could use real models to fill out the wireframes she created—ones to represent Army rangers, Navy SEALs, interplanetary warriors, and, now that she thought about it, football players.
“May I come in?” He angled himself as if he were about to barge through a line of defensive backs.
“Sure, uh, yes, I mean, the place is a mess. I’ll get out of your way.” She stepped back and let the star football player into her tiny one-bedroom apartment, although she had no clue why he was standing in front of her with a dozen roses.
Rachelle Ayala is a bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. Her foremost goal is to take readers on a shared emotional journey with her characters as they grow and become more true to themselves. Rachelle believes in the power of love to overcome obstacles and feels that everyone should find love as often as possible, especially if it's within the pages of a book.
Her book, Knowing Vera, won the 2015 Angie Ovation Award, and A Father for Christmas garnered a 2015 Readers’ Favorite Gold Award.
She is also a writing teacher and founder of the Romance In A Month writing community. She lives in California with her husband and has three children and two birds.
Tough as nails publicist, Mia Scott, has built her career by dodging the advances from her elite clientele. Her number one rule; never mix business with pleasure. Until a split second decision leads her to a night of unbridled passion -- and the morning after blues when she discovers the man she spent an amazing night with is her newest client.
A professional pitcher for the Marlins, Evan Ahrens knows he messed up, and messed up royally. One mistake on the field puts him on thin ice with the league and lands him a new PR rep to fix his soiled image. He goes to NightCaps to toss back a few drinks and blow off some steam -- and meets his match in a feisty dark haired woman who takes him to heights he's never been. There's only one problem -- she's his new publicist, and she's made it clear there will be no repeat performances.
A battle of wills gives way to uncontrollable passion as Mia fights her growing feelings to keep things professional, while Evan decides for once in his life he wants something more. The game just went from saving his career, to pitching for love.
“I think it would be best for our professional interests if we pretended like last night didn’t happen. Is that going to be a problem, Mr. Ahrens?”
Her words were sharp and unforgiving, her features tight, but when he looked deeper, Evan saw real fear in her eyes. Like it had last night, the urge to protect her tightened his chest, and he wondered what had ever happened to put that fear in her eyes in the first place.
Slipping from the bench, he drew to his full height, touching her soft cheek with his fingertips. She didn’t flinch away from him as he half expected she would, which gave him hope that she hadn’t completely written him off. Yet.
“What are you afraid of, Sweetness? That a little heat might rattle that icy cage you’ve got yourself wrapped up in? I seem to recall you were pretty warm last night,” he purred, his body revving when an answering heat shimmered in her eyes.
Amy Manemann is an International Best Selling Author. She writes sexy and intriguing romantic suspense, contemporary romance, young adult paranormal romance, and dabbles in children's books. She resides in her hometown along the Mississippi river with her husband and their two children. When she isn't plotting her next book, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and diving into a good book.
Her heart is empty in the new life she’s living.
Charlotte Taylor knows she’s gorgeous. She’s been told that all her life. Since she was a child, her mom, a former model and Miss Georgia, has been grooming her for a professional modeling career and tomorrow, she’ll sign with the top agency in New York City. It should be a dream come true.
Alone, and unhappy, she doesn’t know where to turn.
Hale Scott works long hours as a chef at the hottest restaurant in Manhattan. It should be his dream job, serving hip food to the coolest crowd in the city. The only problem is his boss. The highlight of his evening is the gorgeous woman he keeps making eye contact with, sitting at the table closest to the kitchen. She looks sad and lonely and he hopes she’s still there when the dinner rush subsides.
Charlotte and Hale find an instant connection but a relationship is the last thing Charlotte needs and the only thing Hale wants. Can they find a way to stay together in the overwhelming city, or can they find their own city of love?
Cameo by: Siena Remington from Melissa Foster’s Flames of Love
“That’s what I love about this city. All the surprises, big and small. Like meeting you tonight,” he said. Suddenly they were face to face, in this romantic starlit space. Charlotte looked up at Hale, standing in front of her, and all she wanted was for him to kiss her.
“Kiss me,” she said, and heard him inhale a breath before taking her face gently between his two hands and kissing her tenderly on the lips. Her head filled with stars at the gentle romantic kiss. As if moving of their own accord, she ran her hands up his chest and onto his shoulders, wrapping them around him. She felt his hand in her hair, cradling her as he deepened the kiss. Before she knew it, she was melting into his embrace. And all too quickly, she felt him pulling away.
“Wow,” he said, breaking the kiss but keeping his eyes locked on hers.
Kaira Rouda is a USA TODAY bestselling, multiple award-winning author of contemporary fiction including HERE, HOME, HOPE and IN THE MIROR. Her latest novel, THE GOODBYE YEAR, will be released in May of 2016.
She lives in Southern California with her family and is at work on her next novel. After living in Columbus, Ohio, for most of her life, she now enjoys the beach whenever possible.
NYPD detective Daniel DeCecco didn’t want to fall hard for his best friend’s little sister. But Lucy has a plan…
Off-limits love is tested, ice cream sundaes are violated, and honesty (eventually) proves to be the best policy in this standalone sequel to Love On The Record (Griffin and Tessa’s story).
Daniel tried like hell to pay attention to the conversation going on beside him at the bar, but on the other side of the ballroom at the Waldorf Astoria, Lucy Sark wasn’t wearing nearly enough to be out in public.
He’d recognize Griffin’s baby sister anywhere, anytime, and not because she was related to his partner, but because she was the most beautiful, way-too-young, don’t-even-think-about-it woman in New York City.
And he was going to hell, because every time she stopped and talked to someone, and slid her head to the side, baring a long, luscious expanse of neck, he could only think about how good she must smell. Taste. Sound, even, if he were to give in to his desperate urge to smell and taste her.
She was wearing a little black dress that was giving him heart palpitations, because it ended way too high on her endless thighs and dipped way too low on her graceful back. She needed someone—Daniel—to sling his jacket around her and make sure she got home safely.
He didn’t move from where he stood. That was a terrible idea.
He took another drink.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Zoe York is a busy mom of two young boys and the creator of modern, sexy, small town contemporary romances. Her debut novel, What Once Was Perfect, started the popular Wardham series, and her first military romance, Fall Out, was released as part of the international bestselling SEALs of Summer super bundle. She lives in London, Ontario and is currently chugging Americanos, wiping sticky fingers, and dreaming of heroes in and out of uniform.
A New Year’s kiss with a stranger turns Pediatrician Mark Ellis’s world upside down. Even more so when he is called into the hospital for a drowning victim and finds out his patient is the son of the woman who changed everything for him.
Joanne Ward is done with her husband and his cheating ways. A single kiss with a man she doesn’t know seals the deal and the divorce papers are served. When her son falls through ice and is clinging to life, she comes face to face with the man who gave her the inner strength to move forward.
Can they revive the sparks they initially shared, or will the incident with her son send them in opposite directions?
I studied her profile. Her long dark hair was pulled back and clipped at the nape of her neck, and her pointed chin was raised in evident defiance. She blinked rapidly for a moment and shook her head as if to dispel a bad thought. Slowly, she lifted her champagne glass and let the crystal rest against her plump bottom lip. She tipped the glass back and took several swallows to finish the entire glass.
I found myself oddly turned on when she licked her dark red lip after removing the glass from her mouth. I wasn’t a big drinker and preferred sober company, but watching that woman drink down that glass as if it was life-sustaining water was almost intoxicating. She glanced around the room, empty glass hanging from her fingertips, until she passed over me. Abruptly, her focus snapped back.
Her eyes stayed locked on mine for a few heartbeats before she dropped them to my mouth. I watched as she let her gaze travel down over my chest and then lower to my hips. Holy mother of champagne!
Stacy Eaton is a police officer by profession. Currently, she is working as the department investigator and enjoys digging into cases and putting the pieces of the puzzles together.
Stacy resides in southeastern Pennsylvania and is the wife to a police officer and the mother of two. She is very proud of her son who is currently serving in the United States Navy and equally proud of her younger daughter who works hard in her Tae Kwon Do studies.
When Stacy is not working her demanding job, or spending time with her family, she works on her business and volunteers with the World Literary Café. When there is time, she writes.
PREVIOUS KINDLE WORLD SPINOFFS BY THESE SPOTLIGHTED AUTHORS
February 29, 2016
This is the promo version of the review tour for by Strife of the Mighty by Julius Bailey
STRIFE OF THE MIGHTY
AUTHOR: Julius Bailey
GENRE: Epic Fantasy
A HUSBAND. A LIQUOR LOVER. A STRANGER. THE DIREST ADVENTURE OF THEIR CENTURY.
For over fifteen hundred years the kingdom of Vrandalin has withstood the might of the one enemy they had need to fear. Now a new threat arises. In the southeastern part of the land, a grim-looking newcomer arrives in the village of Varalel, bringing with him a warning of imminent ruin. Shortly afterward, Varalel is stormed, its folk scattered, and one man is separated from the woman he loves.
Little else matters to Allon Bracken than reuniting with his wife. With nowhere else to turn, he must place his faith in a gruff, mysterious man he knows little of, and an unexpected comrade. But his road is a hard one, and will lead him into dangers and discoveries that will change everything.
It is likely safe to assume that the silver-haired man did not expect events to take such a swift turn when he hasted to Varalel with his warning. But there is no time to curse ill fate. Extenuating circumstances compel him to share Allon’s road—unless it is the other way around—but he quickly finds himself with another goal: the capital must be warned. An army out of legend stamps through the land, goaded by an age-old enchantress with designs of destruction. Time is short. But he must look to himself as well, for a hunted man is rarely at rest, and the terrible creatures that pursue him do not sleep.
And for a former traveling trinket seller deemed village ‘softhead’ by his peers, things are suddenly very horrible indeed. Or are they? It seems that chaos brings folk together. Joined to Allon’s path by an inner impulse, he discovers a companionship he did not expect to find. He will need it.
Enter Vrandalin; a land where ancient powers stir, dark beasts prowl, forgotten lore returns, and those who are thought weak discover their strength.
Brandegan quickened his run. Ahead of him the lights had begun to recede, melting into the night like wraiths. There were no more shouts either. All around silence again crept forward. Just before he could reach them, the last of the fires vanished. Brandegan was just about to dash after them, but something halted him. The heavy forestry round about was still, too still. Brandegan became aware of an intense watchfulness, and as he listened, a shroud of dread descended upon him.
Suddenly he felt, rather than saw, a shadow shift beside him. Next moment, he was hurled forward, heaved from the earth as though he was weightless, and tossed like a wind-blasted reed. Hardly had he struck the ground when a dark weight fell on him, crushing him down. He heard a snarl, and then four enormous claws, sharp as blades, raked his side. He fought back, lashing out with Rithlir, but a great, hirsute paw gripped his arm and, with a massive strength, pinned it to the ground.
Then Brandegan saw the eyes. Hovering just before his face, they shone as red fire, feeding the darkness with their terror and harboring within them the insatiable spirit of the Dread Palace. Even as they gazed down on their prey, the malice behind those eyes was kindled to sudden wrath, for here at last was their scourge, here at last was the thorn long sought.
But just before teeth as deadly as the edge of Rithlir found their mark, there was a dazzling flash. Shadows leapt up and fled, the darkness was pushed back, and in that moment Brandegan’s adversary was revealed. Greater in stature than any beast of the wild stood Daugruil. As other Gragmarr, his forelegs loomed up, broad and strong. His back, arching downward near his hind-legs, was covered in coarse, crimson fur, and his great muzzle was lined with dagger-edged teeth. Now he stumbled backward, thwarted from his intent by the blinding, silver flare.
Brandegan leapt to his feet as soon as the weight was lifted. His side throbbed in agony, and blood had already soaked through his raiment. But he heeded it not. The insatiable spirit of malice that burned in the eyes of this Gragmarr he knew.
✯✯✯✯✯There's a long historical background to the world of this book, full of names I can't pronounce and creatures I've never imagined before. The landscape changes as the characters take their journey. Cultures and characters change from place to place, and magic is everywhere. A fascinating read! The pace is steady, though there were times (during battles, mostly) when I couldn't put this book down without feeling unsatisfied. The highlights of this novel, for me, were the instances where the characters are able to interact without speaking, the parts that made me laugh (thank you Merch!).
My favorite character is Merch. His strength is born of love for his friends, which I admire. Allon is another favorite, mostly because of his appreciation & love for his wife.
PS. I purchased two copies as gifts and Amazon let me download the Kindle version for free because of that. Pretty sweet perk! Thanks, Amazon. =) (I don't know if 2 copies is the minimum for this deal). By Sarah on March 25, 2015 Verified Purchase
✯✯✯✯✯Strife of the Mighty: Book One of the Chronicles of Vrandalin has everything I expect from a traditionally styled epic fantasy. The story features dark beasts chasing the heroes, swords that may just be a bit magical, a journey fraught with danger, a little love, a little tragedy, and, of course, an epic battle to top it all off.
I love the pairing of two regular guys with the mysterious traveler. It’s always fun for me to follow the perspective of the unlikely hero, or heroes in this case. Allon and Merch were great, and Brandegan is the epitome of the timeless wizard or epic warrior, reminding me strongly of favorite characters from other fantasies I adore. Then again, I kept picturing them as hobbits tagging along after a ranger, though I think that was from more of a vibe than any particular feature.
The pacing of this story was great, fast when it needed to be fast, and slower when it needed to be slower. I thought the fights were pretty well choreographed and exciting. Danger seems to fade out, letting the adventurers get a little comfortable, and then there comes some kind of beast or other enemy. But what I liked most about these impromptu battles was how they all actually move the plot along. They all do in some way. Most in a big way.
Playing counterpart to the fights and chases, and like many of the more traditional fantasies, this one features fanciful detours into lore, poetry and song. I read most of them, but I must admit I skipped through one of the songs. It was nice that these little offshoots were in italics, easy to identify. I imagine some could be skimmed through, but I wouldn’t recommend doing so for those related to the history of the world; otherwise, you won’t know who or what’s important later in the book when the myths start getting a little less mythical.
Also like many stories in the genre, it has its fair share of words and phrases that I’m sure I butchered, but most weren’t too baffling. There’s a pronunciation guide at the back for those who like to be sure of such things, but I preferred to just wing it. And on the same note, the language starts off a little flowery and formal, as though trying very hard to proclaim, “I am fantasy.” Luckily, it didn’t seem to stay that way. I’m not certain if that’s because I got used to it or because it laid off a bit when the plot got going.
So, overall, I really liked this story. I’d recommend it for folks who like a good, solid traditional fantasy with plenty of adventure, intriguing characters and a well-thought plot. By Trish (I read too much!) on October 19, 2015
Adventurer, wonderer and wanderer, creative thinker and eccentrically unconventional, Julius Bailey tends to tread the peculiar paths. Born to the humidity, tropical sights, and gators of Florida, he lived in the Sunshine State for fourteen years of his life before moving to the rolling hills and red clay of Oklahoma. At the age of twelve he fell in love with a book called ‘The Secrets of Droon: The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet.’ From thence his love of reading bloomed. Having taken a keen interest in the fantastical realms of Fantasy, his jaunts mainly focus thitherward. He currently resides upon a hilltop thronged with hilltops, and avidly welcomes communication from his readers.
This is a release tour for Scoring at Love by Michele Shriver
SCORING AT LOVE
Author: Michele Shriver
Official genre of book: Contemporary romance (sports)
As the starting goaltender for the San Antonio Generals, Becker Lawson tries to fly under the radar, and since most hockey fans are more interested in the players that score, he’s generally allowed that luxury—at least until the Generals’ offseason hockey camps put Beck front and center.
After a difficult divorce, newly single Kendall Myers has every intention of remaining that way—no matter how sexy her son’s new hockey coach might be.
When Beck crosses paths with Kendall, the chemistry is immediately evident, even if she doesn’t want to see it. Can Beck break down her walls and prove that when it comes to love, even goalies can score?
The temperature outside topped the century mark, typical of Texas in June, but the inside of the Alamo Ice Rink was a cool, temperature-controlled fifty-seven degrees. Becker Lawson watched the people filing into the rink and wondered if they were all truly interested in the opening day of the Young Generals hockey camp, or if some of them merely wanted to find a way to beat the San Antonio heat by spending the day in a cool environment. Either way, it appeared that the camp would be well-attended.
There were forty children signed up for the camp, which would allow them to hone their hockey skills with a handful of San Antonio Generals players serving as their coaches. The enrollment numbers for this inaugural camp exceeded everyone’s expectation. Hopefully a few would be budding goaltenders who could benefit from Becker’s tutelage. He knew one of the kids already, a young boy named Bryson Crawford, who was the son of the host family that Becker’s Russian teammate, Nikolai Brantov, had stayed with this season. Bryson had attended a few team practices, so Beck was already familiar with his passion for the sport, and particularly the goalie position.
Beck waited as Meryl Johnson, the director of the camp and the daughter of the Generals’ owner, introduced the coaches and gave them each a chance to tell the kids a little about themselves and the position they played. Finally, after Nik, team captain and star center, Colton Tremblay, right wingers Trevor Collison and Ryder Carrigan, and defenseman Noah Mann had spoken, it was Beck’s turn. Yeah, typical to save the goalie until the very end. It wasn’t the position of glory and glamour. After all, goalies didn’t score, or at least not very often, and too many times they were the goat, shouldering the blame for giving up the goal that might cost their team the game.
Becker first started playing goalie at the age of ten, and never looked back. He couldn’t imagine playing any other position, and he looked forward to teaching his skills to these boys and girls. “Hi there,” he said, taking the microphone from Meryl after she’d introduced him. “I’m Becker Lawson, and I’m the starting goaltender for the Generals. To me, goalie is the most important position on a hockey team. It combines physical skills, mental skills, and emotional skills.” He went on to explain about the importance of each before asking, “How many of you here have played goalie before, or think you might be interested in playing goalie?”
Six hands went up, including Bryson, as expected, and one girl, which pleased Beck. The NWHL had opened up professional hockey to women, and he wanted the sport, and the position, to be inclusive to everyone. “Great. Anyone else?”
There was a boy in the front that caught Beck’s eye. He raised his hand a little ways, then pulled it down, as if he couldn’t make up his mind.
Beck moved closer to him. “What’s your name?”
“Tristan,” the boy said. “Tristan Myers.”
“Hi, Tristan. You seem a little uncertain, like maybe you’re not sure who want to be a goalie. Do you have any questions for me, maybe help you decide?”
“Oh, no. My mind’s made up,” Tristan said. “I already know I want to play goalie. It’s just my mom…” His voice trailed off as he looked down at the ice.
“Your mom doesn’t want you to?” Beck asked.
“Yeah. She says it’s too dangerous for me.”
A common concern, but not an accurate one. “Is your mom here? Maybe I can talk with her for a minute, change her mind.”
“Could you?” Tristan smiled, revealing a missing front tooth. “That’d be great.” He turned around and pointed. “That’s her over there. First row. Blue sweater.”
Beck’s eyes followed Tristan’s finger to a stunning woman with auburn hair that cascaded to her shoulders in soft waves. She wore jeans, the blue sweater Tristan mentioned, and a black leather jacket. She was, quite simply, one of the most beautiful women Beck had ever seen. She also quite likely married, and thus completely off limits. He could still talk a little hockey with her, though, just nothing else. “Great. Let me go see what I can do, buddy.”
***
Kendall was glad she’d worn a coat. It might be hotter than Hades outside, but it was plenty chilly inside the rink. Her close friend and fellow hockey mom hadn’t been as smart, and now Lori rubbed her arms as she complained about the cold temperature.
“Hopefully watching all these hot guys in action will warm me up quickly,” she declared.
Kendall raised an eyebrow. “Excuse me? Aren’t you married?”
“Yes,” Lori said. “Married, not dead. I’m still allowed to appreciate a good-looking man, and this hockey team is full of them. Seriously, they ought to make a calendar. I don’t know why they haven’t.”
“Whatever.” Kendall did her best to sound as if she hadn’t even noticed. The last thing she wanted was her friend to get any ideas that one of the players might be a good match for Kendall.
“Yeah, ‘whatever,’ yourself,” Lori chided. “It’s time for you to get back in the game.”
“Can we quit with the sports references, please? Oh, and the divorce has only been final for three weeks.” Kendall wanted a chance to enjoy being single, which sounded good in theory. The reality was all she’d done so far was feel sorry for herself. Even the day the decree was approved by the judge, when Lori showed up at the house with several bottles of high-priced sparkling wine in an attempt to celebrate Kendall’s newfound singlehood, she’d ended up a blubbering mess.
“Yes, but the marriage was over long before that,” her friend said, before softening her tone. “Look, Kendall, I know it stings. Carter was an ass. Actually, Carter is still an ass. But it doesn’t mean all men are. There are plenty of good ones in the world.”
Kendall was about to offer another ‘whatever,’ which had become her new favorite word, when Lori said, “Oh my. Hello. Hottie alert. And he’s coming this way.”
Sure enough, Kendall turned her head and spotted one of the Generals players, whom she recognized as the starting goalie, heading toward them. Lori wasn’t exaggerating. He was definitely hot, with dark hair and piercing brown eyes.
The official website of the San Antonio Generals. The Generals are a fictional NHL expansion franchise based out of San Antonio, Texas and featured in the Men of the Ice series by author Michele Shriver.
The Men of the Ice books are contemporary romance novellas about the Generals players and the women who love them.
More information about the books, as well the team, organization, and news and events can be found on this site.
Visit the official Facebook page of the San Antonio Generals. The Generals are a fictional NHL expansion franchise based out of San Antonio, Texas and featured in the Men of the Ice series by author Michele Shriver.
Register to win a custom San Antonio Generals hockey jersey, worn in the photo shoot for Men of the Ice book 7, and autographed by cover models Jax Turyna and Josh Gil, and author Michele Shriver. All U.S. residents who purchase any book in the Men of the Ice series between February 13- October 31, 2016 are eligible to win.
Michele Shriver writes women’s fiction and contemporary romance. Her books feature flawed-but-likeable characters in real-life settings. She’s not afraid to break the rules, but never stops believing in happily ever after. Michele counts among her favorite things a good glass of wine, a hockey game, and a sweet and sexy book boyfriend, not necessarily in that order.
This is a cover reveal for Looking Back from L.A. by MB Feeney
LOOKING BACK FROM L.A.
accompanying novella to It Started in Texas
Name of cover designer – The Graphics Shed
Official genre of book - Contemporary Romance/Rockstar Romance
It Started in Texas, but as we all know, “…Gage Charles Weston will not start something without thinking about the consequences.” In this companion novella to the story that started it all, get a peek inside Gage’s head and find out what he was thinking and experiencing while Charlotte was turning his world upside down and vice versa.
“The banter between the girls is hilarious, they have such a beautiful friendship even though they all live countries apart from each other but they support each other so selflessly” – Natalie M (Amazon Reviewer)
“M B just makes all of the relationships within the group work, they feel real, I totally wanted to be in there with them! All characters were so laid back and relatable.” – Stacey G (Amazon Reviewer)
“I love how Charlotte came across as a ‘normal’ person. This author has a great talent of portraying her characters as real and she rocked it with this story.” – Philomena Callan (Goodreads Reviewer)
Leaving the familiar comfort of her UK home for a weekend in Texas is one of the craziest things Charlotte Evans has ever done. Celebrating her birthday with friends is the highlight of her year until she bumps into her favorite rock star, literally.
Gage Weston is used to having women fall over themselves at his feet … A rock star, an actor, he’s got his fair share of female attention, but what is it about the Brit that grabs his attention from the moment they meet?
Communication issues and crossed wires plague them as they try to work out what is going on with them across thousands of miles. Crazy friends and distance issues aside; can a relationship work, or is it a simple case of ‘a girl in every town’?
M. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, two kids and a dog. Currently at university studying for her BA (Hons) in primary teaching, she procrastinates on her assignments by listening to music of all genres and trying to get ‘just one more paragraph’ written on whichever WIP is open. She is also a serious doodler and chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love ever since she could spell, and publishing is the final culmination of her hard work and ambition.Her publishing career began with two novellas, and she currently has multiple projects under way whilst Honour, a compilation of her own military based shorts, was released in November 2013 and her short novel, The One That Got Away was released February 2015. Always having something on the go can often lead to block which eventually gets dissolved by good music and an even better book.
Her main reason for writing is to not only give her readers enjoyment, but also to create a story and characters that stay with readers long after the book is finished, and possibly make someone stop and think “what if...”
magicofbookspromo@gmail.com
February 27, 2016
The Edge of Madness!
The Edge Of Madness by Julie Elizabeth PowellMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a fantastic collection of chilling stories from various authors - including me!
Mine are, 13, Lost Shadows and Dirty Business.
Another bonus is its price - 99c /99p.
Yes, a bargain and remember, you may not be able to turn off the lights.
View all my reviews
February 25, 2016
Legends from PGP
Fabulous Fantasy & Science Fiction Box Set!
Only 99c /99p
myBook.to/LegendsPGP
Complete Books Anthology —
13 COMPLETE NOVELS AND NOVELLAS FROM YOUR FAVORITE SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY AUTHORS.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. All works in this box set have been professionally proofed by Paper Gold Publishing, unless this service was expressly refused by the author. 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.
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).
LEGENDS is a magnificent collection of award-winning science fiction and fantasy books, some light enough to make you smile, all deep enough to make you think, What if…? Every single compelling story was hand-picked for your enjoyment. 13 worlds to make your own, 13 thrilling adventures, 13 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 THE FOLLOWING TITLES:
ON UNFAITHFUL WINGS (ICARUS FELL #1) — Bruce Blake
THE UNIVERSE BUILDERS: BERNIE AND THE PUTTY — Steve LeBel
BRAIN WAVES — Cherime MacFarlane
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON — Ahmad Taylor
SUNSTONE — Holly Barbo
TRAPT: A TWISTED WOLF TALE — Rene Folsom
GONE — Julie Elizabeth Powell
WITCHWOOD ESTATE: GOING HOME — Patti Roberts
FROZEN HEART — Ella Medler
GARNETS — Suzy Stewart Dubot
SHERDAN’S PROPHECY — Jess Mountifield
OF SOUND MIND — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE UNRAVELING (SAGE SEED CHRONICLES BOOK 3) — Holly Barbo
Only 99c /99p
myBook.to/LegendsPGP
Complete Books Anthology —
13 COMPLETE NOVELS AND NOVELLAS FROM YOUR FAVORITE SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY AUTHORS.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. All works in this box set have been professionally proofed by Paper Gold Publishing, unless this service was expressly refused by the author. 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.
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).
LEGENDS is a magnificent collection of award-winning science fiction and fantasy books, some light enough to make you smile, all deep enough to make you think, What if…? Every single compelling story was hand-picked for your enjoyment. 13 worlds to make your own, 13 thrilling adventures, 13 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 THE FOLLOWING TITLES:
ON UNFAITHFUL WINGS (ICARUS FELL #1) — Bruce Blake
THE UNIVERSE BUILDERS: BERNIE AND THE PUTTY — Steve LeBel
BRAIN WAVES — Cherime MacFarlane
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON — Ahmad Taylor
SUNSTONE — Holly Barbo
TRAPT: A TWISTED WOLF TALE — Rene Folsom
GONE — Julie Elizabeth Powell
WITCHWOOD ESTATE: GOING HOME — Patti Roberts
FROZEN HEART — Ella Medler
GARNETS — Suzy Stewart Dubot
SHERDAN’S PROPHECY — Jess Mountifield
OF SOUND MIND — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE UNRAVELING (SAGE SEED CHRONICLES BOOK 3) — Holly Barbo
Legacy: Fantasy Box Set from PGP
Fantasy Box Set — Complete Books Anthology
Superb price of only 99p /99c
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Fantasy-...
10 COMPLETE NOVELS AND NOVELLAS FROM YOUR FAVORITE FANTASY AUTHORS.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. The Avalon Trilogy is suitable for young audiences, but can be equally enjoyed by all those young at heart. All works in this box set have been professionally proofed by Paper Gold Publishing and Pelican Proofing, unless this service was expressly refused by the author. 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.
This box sets is comprised of a mix of already released novels and novellas, including a complete trilogy. 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).
LEGACY is an impressive collection of fantasy stories — some darker, some intense, all suspenseful, and every one unique. 10 new worlds to explore, 10 wild adventures, 10 ways to make a new set of best 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 THE FOLLOWING TITLES:
WHITE HART — Sarah Dalton
DESTINY'S WINGS — D.S. Schmeckpeper
WANDERING TO BELONG — Jess Mountifield
WHEN SHADOWS FALL — Bruce Blake
PARADOX: THE ANGELS ARE HERE — Patti Roberts
WERELORD THAL: A RENAISSANCE WEREWOLF TALE — Tracy Falbe
THE DRAGIL: BROKEN MAGIC — Holly Barbo
THE AVALON TRILOGY I: THE STAR REALM — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE AVALON TRILOGY II: INVASION — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE AVALON TRILOGY III: SECRETS OF THE ICE — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Superb price of only 99p /99c
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Fantasy-...
10 COMPLETE NOVELS AND NOVELLAS FROM YOUR FAVORITE FANTASY AUTHORS.
Due to mature content, situations and language, this collection is recommended for audiences 18+. The Avalon Trilogy is suitable for young audiences, but can be equally enjoyed by all those young at heart. All works in this box set have been professionally proofed by Paper Gold Publishing and Pelican Proofing, unless this service was expressly refused by the author. 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.
This box sets is comprised of a mix of already released novels and novellas, including a complete trilogy. 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).
LEGACY is an impressive collection of fantasy stories — some darker, some intense, all suspenseful, and every one unique. 10 new worlds to explore, 10 wild adventures, 10 ways to make a new set of best 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 THE FOLLOWING TITLES:
WHITE HART — Sarah Dalton
DESTINY'S WINGS — D.S. Schmeckpeper
WANDERING TO BELONG — Jess Mountifield
WHEN SHADOWS FALL — Bruce Blake
PARADOX: THE ANGELS ARE HERE — Patti Roberts
WERELORD THAL: A RENAISSANCE WEREWOLF TALE — Tracy Falbe
THE DRAGIL: BROKEN MAGIC — Holly Barbo
THE AVALON TRILOGY I: THE STAR REALM — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE AVALON TRILOGY II: INVASION — Julie Elizabeth Powell
THE AVALON TRILOGY III: SECRETS OF THE ICE — Julie Elizabeth Powell
