C.A. Milson's Blog, page 124
February 16, 2021
Book Blast – LOVE HAS NO LIMITS
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
At sixteen, Armine fell in love for the first time and lost that love for the first time. She was the youngest daughter of three in Armenia and the only one underage when her parents decided to immigrate to the United States. She had to go with and leave her beloved Alex behind. Her parents saw a land of opportunity while Armine saw heartbreak. It wasn’t the end of her story with Alex and certainly not the end of her life,as it had felt at the time, but there was more pain to follow. Sixteen-year-olds are resilient, but even when losses and hurt came calling repeatedly throughout Armine’s life, she had the strength to love and to rise again and again. Even as life moves on for Armine and Alex, their lives intersect again and again over the course of thirty years. Through deaths and divorces, their lives never quite line up from their opposite sides of the globe. Love Has No Limits is Armine’s story of keeping faith in oneself and in love despite heartbreak, betrayal, and loss. It reveals the joy available to those who rise and rise again.
Read an Excerpt
Throughout the early ’80s, I had been dating here and there, some longer relationships than others but I wasn’t feeling the connection I was looking for with anyone. There was Ed, who was Armenian and went to USC studying engineering and seemed like a nice guy, but did not seem to have a backbone to stand up to his parents. His parents did not take my education very seriously and expected that once we got married, which we were not even discussing, I would be staying home and keeping myself busy like his mom did by raising children, being a “good” wife, socializing, shopping, making myself look good and whatever else she did. That choice certainly worked for some people, but it was not going to be my choice. Then there was John whom I met in college, an engineering major and he was a very nice guy, a gentleman, treated me with respect but we didn’t really have any common interests. Then there was Nick who was a Levitz customer; he had been stationed in Germany for a while and now he was an electrical engineer.
He was also nice and very handsome, but again, not a very interesting person. I was realizing that although many of the guys I was meeting were nice, educated and polite, none of them had a wide range of interests, had read any classical literature, or knew anything about art, poetry or classical music, nor did they have the wanderlust of wanting to experience life’s many pleasures or travel. Then I met Richard at Levitz.
About the Author:
Arminé was born in Soviet Armenia and immigrated to United States with her parents when she was 17. She worked in the health care industry for 33 years and held key leadership roles in various health plans. Most recently, she retired from a senior executive position to pursue service and paying forward.
She is currently involved in various volunteer roles. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, gardening, art museums, concerts, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
Love Has No Limits is her first book.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56512392-love-has-no-limits
Buy Link: ttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08RJ6152L/ref=x_gr_w_bb_sin
Armine Papouchian will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js
February 14, 2021
February 3, 2021
Book Blast – HER TIMELESS GAMBLE
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
When Matthew McAlister pulls a nearly-drowned woman from the mucky waters of the Mississippi, he has no idea what’s in store for him. Or, how easily he’ll willingly give up his carefree, love-em-and-leave-em lifestyle for a chance at real happiness.
Kathryn (Kate) Lowell can’t believe her bad luck. Or the fact she’s somehow been transported from the twenty-first century back to the post Civil War south. Worse yet, into the arms of the one man she grew up hating. The man she blames for her father’s recent demise.
Can these two off-kilter and infinitely stubborn individuals fight their mutual attraction? Or, will they give in to the inevitable? And, when the time comes, will Kate choose to stay with Matt in the past, or return to her former life?
Read an Excerpt
Kate moaned softly, and lifted a heavy hand to her aching forehead. “Where am I?”, she wondered aloud.
“Just rest. You’re safe, everything is fine.”
The muffled sound of a man’s voice penetrated the throbbing in her head and she struggled to open her eyes, to identify the source. A dim light shone on the man’s handsome features and Kate realized she’d come face to face with the devil. His intense expression, an expression she felt certain could stop rush hour traffic in Times Square, seemed to mock her. Haunt her.
I must be dreaming. That’s it, I’m dreaming. I didn’t really drown, I’m just asleep.
Kate closed her eyes and waited, certain that at any moment she’d awaken. Until then, she’d allow this ridiculous dream to run its course. She’d let this man who looked suspiciously like Matthew McAlister sit at her bedside without so much as a single complaint. After all, it was only a dream, a dream most likely resulting from the trauma of her father’s death. A dream in which her subconscious had conjured up a man who’d been dead himself for nearly a hundred years.
Cautiously, she reopened her eyes and met the man’s darkened gaze.
“Oh my gosh, it is you. And just like my father’s sketches, and the way he described you, right down to the scar above your left brow.”
Unconsciously, Kate suspected, he reached up and ran his finger across the scar. “Someone described me?”
As soon as he spoke, Kate recognized the voice from her dreams. Either she had totally lost her mind or, like Matthew McAlister, she was dead. “I’ve got to be dreaming. This can’t be real. And, you can’t possibly be Matthew McAlister.”
Nervously she scanned her surroundings, taking in the beamed ceiling, the heavy wooden furniture and the brocade coverings. The dim light, she realized, came from an oil lamp on the bedside table.
“Lady, I don’t know who you are, or where you came from, but I can assure you, I am definitely Matthew McAlister.”
She shook her head in disbelief, regretting the quick motion when a shooting pain radiated from back of her head forward. “Where am I? Never mind, don’t answer that. I’m dead. I must be dead because that’s the only way I could be seeing you.” She scrambled for the edge of the bed, saying, “I’ve got to get out of here. I can’t…”
Rather than free herself, her legs tangled in what seemed like yards of bed linens. In her haste to get away, Kate slipped unceremoniously off the edge of the bed and landed flat on her backside, the thick carpet cushioning her embarrassing attempt at escape.
“Are you all right?”, he asked.
Bracing himself on the foot rail at the end of the bed, he reached out and offered his free hand. His gaze settled on her bare legs. A man’s shirt, most likely his Kate realized, rode high on her thighs, exposing far more than she was willing to show.
“All right?”, she repeated nervously. If being insane is all right, then I’m fine.
“Are you hurt?”
“No, I’m not hurt. I’m just in a room that looks like something off the set of Maverick, and any minute now a young and rakish Mel Gibson will burst through that door with someone shooting at him, and I’m talking to Matthew McAlister. Other than that, I’m fine.”
Matthew McAlister looked positively baffled by her insane rambling. Yet, when he spoke, his voice held firm conviction rather than confusion. “First of all, you are not dead. And second, who is this Mel Gibson fellow who’s going to burst into my stateroom at any moment?”
About the Author:
NANCY FRASER—Jumping Across Romance Genres with Gleeful Abandon—is an Amazon Top 100 and Award-Winning author who can’t seem to decide which romance genre suits her best. So, she writes them all.
Like most authors, Nancy began writing at an early age, usually on the walls and with crayons or, heaven forbid, permanent markers. Her love of writing often made her the English teacher’s pet which, of course, resulted in a whole lot of teasing. Still, it was worth it.
Published in multiple genres, Nancy has published over thirty-five books in full-length, novella, and short format.
When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people.
Website: http://www.nancyfraser.ca
Facebook: http://facebook.com/nancyfraserauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfraserauthor
Bookbub: http://bookbub.com/profile/nancy-fraser
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Fraser/e/B004AOL61Y/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7206382.Nancy_Fraser
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/fraser425/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3gC68iMStwKCr4v_S6fMIA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romauthor_nancyfraser
Newletter Sign Up: http://eepurl.com/bxkKvD
Puzzle Link: HTG Jigsaw Puzzle – https://bit.ly/39sXqh7
Buy Links: The book is on sale for only $0.99
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZBYQZV
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1547274584
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/her-timeless-gamble
BN/Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/her-timeless-gamble-nancy-fraser/1138562029
Universal: https://books2read.com/u/4NXpRx
Nancy Fraser will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js
January 26, 2021
Book Blast – DOC CEDARWOOD
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Can an accident and a rim job lead to lasting love?
Aiden Connor isn’t looking for a date. Sure, he wants one, but relationships seem to be too difficult to maintain. He’s an ER doctor and doesn’t have time for commitment…that is, until he runs over a curb and needs a new rim for his sports car. The mechanic isn’t anything like he expects, but could be the one man he needs if he’s willing to open his mind and heart.
Matt Phillips equates dating with disaster, but sees himself as an eternal optimist. When he catches sight of Aiden, he wants to give relationships a try. Every cell in his body screams to get the sexy doctor naked and in his bed. But Matt has demons and addictions he’s still working through. Will he fall prey to his past or learn and move forward with the hot doctor?
Read an Excerpt
“Do you have a tow truck?”
“We do. What happened? Usually people come here in a vehicle. You seem to be without one.” The man smiled. The five o’clock shadow darkened his cheeks and his blue eyes sparkled. He’d combed his hair into a short mohawk and the inch-long spikes glimmered in the pink light of the neon sign.
Aiden read the man’s name tag. Matt. Funny, the guy didn’t strike him as a Matt. More like a Roscoe or a Boss. He smoothed his palms over his thighs. Blood rushed through his body and his nerve endings tingled. Each time he swept his gaze over Matt, his pulse reacted. Either he needed a date and sex, or he’d lost his mind from sleep deprivation. He straightened his shoulders. He wasn’t there for a date. “I ran over the curb down the road. I ruined my tire and probably more.”
“If you hit the curb on Walker Road, then you jacked up more than a tire. If the rim isn’t a mess, I’d be shocked.” Matt disappeared into the garage bay, then stepped back out again without the rag. He snorted. “Most rims are a mess and if you did one hell of a job on it…” He whistled, then grinned. “Nice.”
Aiden swayed on his feet. Go figure, he’d found the one mechanic in town to make a lewd joke about rim jobs. “Can you fix it?”
“I’ll get the truck. I doubt I’ll be able to get to it today because I need to find the right rim to fit your car. That’ll take me at least a couple of hours tomorrow to locate. The tire will be easy—unless you did more damage. I won’t know that until I get a look at the car.” Matt tugged a set of keys from his overalls. “Where did you leave it?”
“Where I collided with the curb.” He pointed down the road. “You’re sure it’ll take that long?”
Matt narrowed his eyes. “Guessing from your outfit, you’re late. For a date or your wedding?”
©Megan Slayer, 2020, All Rights Reserved
About the Author:
Megan Slayer, aka Wendi Zwaduk, is a multi-published, award-winning author of more than one-hundred short stories and novels. She’s been writing since 2008 and published since 2009. Her stories range from the contemporary and paranormal to LGBTQ and white hot themes. No matter what the length, her works are always hot, but with a lot of heart. She enjoys giving her characters a second chance at love, no matter what the form. She’s been nominated at the LRC for Best Author, Best Contemporary, Best Ménage, Best BDSM and Best Anthology. Her books have made it to the bestseller lists on Amazon.com.
When she’s not writing, Megan spends time with her husband and son as well as three dogs and three cats. She enjoys art, music and racing, but football is her sport of choice. She’s an active member of the Friends of the Keystone-LaGrange Public library. Find out more about Megan and Wendi at http://wendizwaduk.com/indexMegan.htm
Sign up for the newsletter here: http://ymlp.com/xgjmjumygmgj
Website: http://wendizwaduk.com/indexMegan.htm
Blog: https://wendizwaduk.wordpress.com/
Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/wendizwaduk.meganslayer
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Megan-Slayer/e/B008BJCFSC
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/megan-slayer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendizwaduk/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5330530.Megan_Slayer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/MeganSlayer
Buy Links:
https://www.firstforromance.com/book/doc-cedarwood
https://books2read.com/u/bank56
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08587JDBS/
https://books.apple.com/us/book/doc-cedarwood/id1500804906
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/doc-cedarwood-megan-slayer/1126488306
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/doc-cedarwood-2
https://www.amazon.ca/Doc-Cedarwood-Pride-Megan-Slayer-ebook/dp/B08587JDBS/
Megan Slayer will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js
January 19, 2021
VBT – THE STRONG WITHIN US
The Strong Within Us
by J. A. Boulet
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GENRE: Historical Fiction
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BLURB:
A struggle. A war. The past. Would you recover?
Nathan Olason picks up the pieces of his life in 1893 and becomes a devoted father and grandfather. Except something from his past is holding him back.
His grandson, Mike grows up in a loving family with Nath almost raising him as his own. Mike develops a passion for hunting and guns, while his family supports him with trepid hearts as WWI looms.
Nath feels helpless to stop this dangerous chain of events, as Mike announces that he is joining the Great War. Armed and deadly, Mike hones his marksmanship skills to a perfection not seen in any other soldier. He is taken on a wild ride of following his passions, courage and gruesome fighting, arriving at Vimy Ridge, France for the fight of his life.
Nath fearing the worst, flees to a place that he thought was his salvation; an old weathered cottage that holds the key to his future.
Follow in the footsteps of heroes.
Be vulnerable.
Would you recover?
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EXCERPT
She was a stunning woman with beautiful long black hair, shockingly rare blue eyes and tanned skin. She was captivating and absolutely gorgeous. Ivan thought that he didn’t have a chance until he found out that she lived down by the pier with her father. He bought fish from her father regularly, trading vegetables and grains some days. Every time Ivan visited the large fishery at the pier, he was always scanning the crowd for the beautiful blue-eyed fisherman girl. He found out that she was almost the same age as himself; she was 18, and he was 19. How she had managed to remain single was something beyond his stretch of knowledge. Maybe she was too beautiful, he thought. No man was courageous enough to approach her. Until this day, he thought.
Ivan straightened his tie and proceeded to the fishery. He ran his fingers through his hair, adjusting his cowlick. The pesky tuft of hair at his crown annoyed him greatly. It seemed to have a mind of its own, especially in tense situations; it would stick up like a fork in a haystack. Otherwise, he thought that he was quite a handsome fellow, standing at six feet tall, slim but fit, with dark blonde hair, a young uneven beard and captivating green eyes. Women looked at him often, so he knew that he was attractive, but he still felt unsure of himself some days, especially around stunning women like her. Ivan pulled the door to the fishery open, unconsciously licking his hand and smoothing down the cowlick again as he stepped inside.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
J. A. Boulet is the passionate author of The Olason Chronicles, a historical saga of war, courage, love and strength. The Strong Within Us Book 2 was released on Amazon November 11, 2020. J. A. Boulet was born and raised in Western Canada as a first generation Canadian from European descent. Her father was enlisted with the Hungarian military and fought bravely during the Hungarian Revolution, changing sides to stand up for what he believed in. He was granted asylum in Canada and built his family here.
J. A. Boulet was born many years later, raised with strong morals and values, which she stands behind to this day. She started writing poetry at the age of five and progressed to short stories and novels. She has a keen interest in settlers, healing, family bonds and military history. J. A. Boulet writes with a spine-tingling realism like none other, grabbing your emotions and refusing to let go. The Strong Within Us Book 2 will be the book you’ve been waiting for.
She currently lives in Canada with her two teenaged sons and a crested gecko named Mossio.
Website: https://jaboulet.ca/
Twitter link: https://twitter.com/love_walk_life
Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/jabouletauthor/
YouTube link: https://youtu.be/WnGkybvfMM4
Reddit link: https://www.reddit.com/user/NormalFemale
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Within-Us-J-Boulet/dp/1777211239
NOTE: the book will be on sale for $1.99 at Kobo during the tour
Kobo (US): https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-strong-within-us
Kobo (Canada): https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/the-strong-within-us
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-strong-within-us-j-a-boulet/1137976794
Chapters Indigo: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/the-strong-within-us/9781777211240-item.html
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
J. A. Boulet will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $15 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Author Interview
Tell us about you as a person.
I am mathematically inclined. I love numbers! I love calculating, measuring and putting together construction projects. Although, I really suck at tools. Lately, I have been slowly learning how to handle tools a little better but I still have issues with stripping screws and just damaging the wonderful construction projects I planned out!
For much of my life, my main career was financial management. Math is my balance. When I have been writing fiction non-stop for weeks, it is a refreshing break to work with numbers for a day.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Good question! I think I’d probably want to hang out with Rihanna. She’s a cool woman with an indomitable spirit. I love her music too.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
I noticed many of my neighbours at my Gimli cottage had Icelandic and Ukrainian DNA. I was curious so we went to the New Iceland Heritage Museum one summer day. It was there that I discovered the courageous plight of these settlers stretching all the way to WWI.
What is your writing process?
I write with my laptop on my lap. I can write on my sofa, at a café, outside on the deck but I cannot write at a desk. My poor back!! Ha!
Tell us about your main character:
Nathan Olason is a strong man, physically and mentally. His values center around family, love, providing and building sustainable economies in his community. He is an impressive strong figure but has a warm heart and he hurts just like all of us.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
Brad Pitt! Nathan is in his mid-30s to 50s in The Strong Within Us but still has a sexy attractive body and smile. He also wears his dark blonde hair long, just like Brad Pitt.
What are you working on next?
Book 3 of The Olason Chronicles! The next generation of the Olason’s and WWII.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Be yourself and don’t rely on just one social media platform. It’s like putting all your investment savings in one basket. That’s never a good idea. Diversity and balancing are what works best if you wish to go international. Also, try to share details of yourself and be genuine. People want to know the person behind the book.
What is your favourite book on your shelf right now?
I am currently reading Ken Follett’s The Evening and The Morning. It’s a prequel about the dark ages and Vikings. I love it! Edgar is my favourite fictional character so far.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I am quite flexible in my hamstrings and my back! Ha! I never wanted to join Cirque de Soleil but I probably could have with some practice!
You are given the choice of one superpower. What superpower would you have and why?
The Invisible Woman! I could do so much with that power! And nobody would even know!
List 5 things on your bucket list:”
I’ve checked off everything on my most recent bucket list. But here are some new things:
1. Visit my overseas relatives in Budapest
2. Hike Mt Edna volcano in southern Italy
3. Ocean kayaking in the Strait of Georgia
4. Adopting a daughter
5. Marrying the love of my life
Where can readers find you on the web?
Everywhere! Just google my name, JA Boulet! But if want an easier route, my website is https://jaboulet.ca/
Any final thoughts?
I hope everyone enjoys reading The Strong Within Us. I put a lot of sweat, effort and tears into writing this book. I hope it breaks you down, makes you cry, then lifts you up with happy tears of overcoming the worst in life. Remember, the light is always brightest at the end of the tunnel.
Thanks to all my followers for supporting me on this journey and a big thanks to you, C.A. Milson, for hosting me!
Book Trailer
January 10, 2021
VBT – GUMBEAUX LOVE
Gumbeaux Love
by Jax Frey
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GENRE: Southern Women’s Fiction
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BLURB:
The adventures of the Gumbeaux Sistahs continues. Five, fiery southern women wage wars against their unique problems using their improbable friendships, hilarious evil-genius schemes, strategy sessions with oh-so-many cocktails, and a shared passion for good gumbo.
Single, Southern artist, Judith Lafferty, casually confesses to her Gumbeaux Sistahs that she is occasionally lonely and would like to fall in love again. Seriously – you’d think she would know to keep her mouth shut around these women by now. The sistahs tackle her problem along with their own with their usual unreasonable, extreme plots and schemes, including a kidnapping, a cupid costume, trying out pick-up lines at the cheese counter, and blind dates from hell. In helping out their friend, the sistahs help each other out as well and bring to light the many flavors of love in all of our lives. Be ready for twists, turns, laugh-out-loud times, and heart-wrenching moments. You’ll be sure to recognize yourself and your best friends in the unstoppable sistahs.
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EXCERPT
Judith rinsed her juice glass in the kitchen sink just as the doorbell rang.
“Who in the world at this hour?” she thought, shaking her head and glancing at the clock on the wall. “It’s not even eight o’clock.”
She walked to the front door and started to open it, but before she could swing it open all the way, a hand clutching a paper coffee cup shoved its way inside, barely missing her face.
“What?” she yelped. Then she laughed. “Oh no, are you kidding me?” She opened the door to five Gumbeaux Sistahs, including Bea, Helen, Dawn, Lola, and Trinity who stood on her front stoop holding coffee. It was especially a surprise to see Trinity there since she lived across the lake and had a long way to come. But the most unexpected thing of all was Dawn, who stood there looking embarrassed as all get-out, wearing a big, red Cupid costume.
“Not again!” said Judith, rolling her eyes and remembering that this was exactly the way that the sistahs had originally kidnapped her and become her best friends in the world.
Dawn grimaced and said, “I don’t know why I’m always the one who has to wear a stupid costume.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Born in New Orleans, Jax came into this world with a sense of celebration of southern culture, food, family and fun. Translating that celebration into her writing and onto canvas is her true calling. Her colorful art depicts everything from her dancing Gumbeaux Sistahs paintings to her popular line of original Mini paintings of southern icons. Because over 25,000 of the mini paintings have been created and sold into art collections worldwide, Jax holds a world’s record for The Most Original Acrylic Paintings on Canvas by One Artist from the World’s Record Academy. Jax art and gifts can be seen at http://www.artbyjax.com.
Jax is also the co-founder of the Women of Infinite Possibilities, an empowering women’s organization started in Covington, LA, where Jax lives today with her loveable, tornado-of-a-pug named Lucy.
The Gumbeaux Sistahs’ series of novels is a work of love for Jax After painting the Sistahs for many years, she finally gives voice to these women characters who have something to say and constantly make Jax laugh when she writes about them. http://www.gumbeauxsistahs.com/
Amazon buy link:
https://www.amazon.com/Gumbeaux-Love-Book-Sistahs-novels-ebook/dp/B08GJ9FZX5/
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Jax Frey will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
January 6, 2021
VBT – Kennedy Deveraux
Kennedy Deveraux
by Bernadette Marie
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GENRE: Contemporary Romance
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BLURB:
Kennedy Devereaux, owner of Kennedy Devereaux Designs, is a sight to behold in her signature pink colors, accented with custom designed jewelry. Intriguing enough that Joel Kingsley, the man building the new business next door, can’t help but keep coming around, just to get to know the woman in the designer clothes. He finds she’s not such a mystery, and his charm easily wins her over–until she finds that he’s forgotten to let her in on the secrets of his past.
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EXCERPT
Pink doors, crystal light fixtures, white shelves. Joel cupped his hands around his eyes to get a better look at the feminine interior of the store he stood in front of. Kennedy Devereaux Designs, the lettering on the door said. Costume jewelry, purses, and a few pieces of clothing were elegantly displayed on uncluttered shelves. He could see a small sitting area toward the back of the store with white chairs on a plush pink rug.
When he stepped back from the door, he inhaled. Could he even smell the store and all of its femininity?
“Can I help you?” A soft voice had him turning to see a woman, as feminine as the store, standing behind him.
She was the smell—sweet and floral. Soft golden hair framed a delicate face, and her lipstick matched the soft pastel pink of the doors he’d been looking through. Sharp blue eyes watched him as he stared at her.
Joel Kingsley was no idiot around women, but this one seemed to render him speechless.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So Cute Photo San Jose Family Photography
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie is known for building families readers want to be part of. Her series The Keller Family has graced bestseller charts since its release in 2011. Since then she has authored and published over thirty-five books. The married mother of five sons promises romances with a Happily Ever After always…and says she can write it because she lives it.
Obsessed with the art of writing and the business of publishing, chronic entrepreneur Bernadette Marie established her own publishing house, 5 Prince Publishing, in 2011 to bring her own work to market as well as offer an opportunity for fresh voices in fiction to find a home as well.
When not immersed in the writing/publishing world, Bernadette Marie and her husband are shuffling their five hockey playing boys around town to practices and games as well as running their family business. She is a lover of a good stout craft beer and might have an unhealthy addiction to chocolate.
SOCIAL MEDIA/CONTACT
Email: info@bernadettemarie.com
Website: www.bernadettemarie.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorbernadettemarie
Twitter: www.twitter.com/writesromance
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorbernadettemarie
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/writerofromance
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Kennedy-Devereaux-Family-Book-ebook/dp/B08JZK8KKV
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Bernadette Marie will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Tell us about you as a person.
I am a boy mom x 5, though my boys are mostly men. My youngest turns 16 on the 9
th
! My husband and I are college sweethearts and have been married for 27 years. Aside from being an author and a publisher, my husband and I own 5 carwashes which is an adventure. I am also training for my certified 2
nd
degree black belt.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
I’m not sure I could make a choice between Oprah and Michelle Obama. I find them to both be charismatic and smart. I would just love to absorb some of their aura. So, whichever one invites me to hang out for the day first, wins.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
Kennedy Devereaux is the first book in my Devereaux Family series. This is the story of Kennedy Devereaux, fashion boutique owner, and her newly found love with the business owner next door, Joel Kingsley.
What is your writing process?
I write in silence, well, I mean I don’t add more sound like music. I can write anywhere in any circumstance, so I easily tune out other sounds. I start writing each day at 6am, and I shoot for 2000 words before I’m done. On days that I go into my office, some of those words are finished in the evening.
Tell us about your main character:
Kennedy Devereaux has a signature pink nail color, designs jewelry, and is always fashionable in her little boutique. However, at home she’s messy and out of sorts. I think this brings some realness to her, as so many of us are functionable at the office, but can’t pick our clothes up off the floor.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
I have to admit, I know so few actresses by name, I can’t even come up with one off the top of my head. Though, Anne Hathaway comes to mind when I think of someone who could pull off the class that is Kennedy Devereaux.
What are you working on next?
Kennedy is the first book in the Devereaux family series. Each book is names after one of the family members. Chase has already released. Max releases in January, and Paige in February. After that, I will pen a few Christmas titles for next year before starting a new saga, TBD.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Network, network, network. Create a village of other authors who will work with you and support you. In turn, you support them. Find them in all genres too, because people don’t always read just one genre, so you never know who you might connect with.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
On my shelf are my son’s books. He writes RPG LIT. The obvious reason they are my favorite is because he is one of my favorites, hands down.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I can write backwards and upside down, in cursive!
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
I’ve always played the superhero that could be invisible. I would love to get from place to place and no one has to see you.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
Go back to Lucca, Italy
NYT Bestselling Author Status
Learn to ballroom dance (at least one dance)
Go to New York for Christmas (on a quiet, normal year)
Sit on a live movie set.
Any final thoughts?
Thank you for having me on your blog. I appreciate it.
January 3, 2021
VBT – A CURSE OF MAYHEM
A Curse of Mayhem
by Sunayna Prasad
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GENRE: Middle grade fantasy
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BLURB:
History, like magic, has a habit of repeating itself
It’s been six months since thirteen-year-old Alyssa McCarthy left magic behind for good. Or so she thought…
Then the enchanted objects that protected her disappear. Now a skeleton named Errol has cursed her with magical powers that keep getting her in trouble. Suddenly strange things are happening with disastrous effects, and if Alyssa can’t remove the magic, she will lose everything she holds dear.
In order to get rid of her unwanted wizardry, Alyssa will have to boost her bravery and confidence and determine who Errol really is. But every time Alyssa uses an enchantment, Errol is one step closer to getting his flesh back and becoming alive, and he will do anything to achieve his goals…even if it means destroying Alyssa’s happiness.
Originally published in 2016 as “Wizardry Goes Wild” and “The Unruly Curse” in 2019, “A Curse of Mayhem” is book two in the exciting and suspenseful “Magical Missions” series.
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EXCERPT
Lilac-colored smoke poured in through the slight opening under Alyssa’s bedroom window. Alyssa leaped back. She swore the window had been closed when she’d come in here a few minutes ago.
The gas clouded into her room, blocking her sight. It washed onto her, causing her to squint and lean back. She coughed, rubbed her eyes, and opened them. The smoke faded. Someone must’ve pulled a prank, and not just any kind—one that involved…wizardry.
Alyssa’s breathing sped up. She shut the window and gazed at the huge yard and long driveway. No one was outside—not even Alex, her godfather and legal guardian.
Perhaps the trespasser had escaped or had hidden somewhere—maybe behind the tree on the lawn or somewhere else on the property.
Alyssa hurried out, brushing ash from her muted purple shirt. She entered the ground floor and opened the front door. “Hello?!”
There was no answer.
“Whoever set that smoke off, it wasn’t funny!”
The silence continued.
Despite the freezing air this autumn evening, Alyssa stepped onto the front porch. A piece of paper appeared out of nowhere, making her jump. She picked it up, anyway.
Welcome back to magic.
Her chest tightened. She hadn’t encountered a single instance of wizardry in six months! Plus, she had two objects that were supposed to protect her from such encounters.
She dashed back up to her room and opened the closet door. Tape hung from a shoebox, and the items that she had left in there…were missing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Sunayna Prasad enjoys writing fantasy books for children, as well as cooking, creating artwork, watching online videos, and blogging. She has also written The Frights of Fiji, formerly titled as From Frights to Flaws. She is passionate about modern life, fantasy, and world-building. Aside from her website, she also has a blog about different creative and entertaining topics, including fiction and writing, called “Sunayna Prasad’s Blog”.
Sunayna has graduated from college in May 2017. She lives in Long Island, NY.
https://www.sunaynaprasadbooks.com/
https://sunaynaprasadblogs.com/
Tweets by SunaynaPrasad
https://www.amazon.com/Unruly-Alyssa-McCarthys-Magical-Missions-ebook/dp/B07SGLLF8W
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-curse-of-mayhem-sunayna-prasad/1136458117
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-curse-of-mayhem
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Sunayna Prasad will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tell us about you as a person.
I love animals very much. I used to have guinea pigs and want to get them again.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Maybe Gilbert Gottfried. I actually saw him perform at a comedy club and met him briefly after the show. I think it would be nice to hang out with him.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
I have book 3 available for pre-order on Amazon.
What is your writing process?
Sometimes I will handwrite first and then type the words. I am a big planner when it comes to writing. I have to have an outline before I start.
Tell us about your main character:
13-year-old Alyssa is cursed with involuntary magic powers that she must remove by boosting her confidence and bravery.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
Ha ha, I don’t know.
What are you working on next?
Minor editing in book 3.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Create great content, not just good. Believe me, good isn’t satisfying when it comes to publishing. I removed all decent works from the market.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
“Mistborn” by Brandon Sanderson
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
Art and cooking
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
Teleporting. That way, I don’t have to worry about traffic or transportation money and restrictions.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
A wilderness trip
A big fundraiser
A visit back to Niagara Falls
A trip to Japan
To see a kangaroo, even at a zoo.
Any final thoughts?
I would love to host a virtual book signing and donate that money to a charity.
December 27, 2020
Book Blast – THE CALLING
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Humanity’s wake-up call. Answer it or face extinction.
When Bleu’s little sister shows symptoms of the deadly Sickness, a strange vision directs him to leave humanity’s subterranean haven and seek the cure on Earth’s glacial surface. Joining the expedition team, Bleu expects extreme temperatures, not a surface ruled by ingenious predators.
Rana and her fellow star beings have co-existed with Earth’s top carnivores since the humans disappeared. But when her peers transform into Crowned Ones, the final stage of star being development, she fears remaining Uncrowned like her parents. To prove her worth, she undertakes a dangerous mission—contacting the hostile and nearly extinct humans.
But Rana’s plan backfires, and Bleu’s team retaliates. As war with the more advanced star being civilization looms, both Rana and Bleu separately seek a way to save their people.
Enjoy an Excerpt
“All right, get out, men.” Savas had never experienced such peace on the last mission. This was truly pleasant. They climbed out of the rover, and he tripped on his own feet as if drunk.
Laughing at himself, he reminded the others, “Guns out. Stamf, take the lead. I’ll bring up the rear.”
He paused, swaying a bit, while the other two men passed him and then proceeded slowly down the left branch. Sparkling light from farther down the tunnel lit their way. With a quick glance back toward the entrance, he took up the rear.
Then a voice as ethereal as the wind sang, “Caaaaaahm heeeeeeeere…caaaaaaaaaahm heeeeeeeere…”
What the hell?
Savas shook his head, blinked, and tapped his ear communicator. Stamf and Abdul, farther ahead, had frozen and appeared confused, swaying in place.
Something was terribly wrong. Was this cave filled with noxious fumes? Had they all gotten cold sickness? The databases talked of arctic workers becoming weak and confused by the extreme temperatures.
Think! Think. Savas wanted to lie down and nap. What’s wrong with me? Images from his childhood tumbled through his head. Not now. Not again. I control my own mind.
“Caaaaaaaaahm heeeeeeeeere,” the voice lulled, endlessly peaceful.
They all mindlessly continued forward, as if in a dream. A small part of Savas’ brain screamed in warning. I. Control. My. Own. Mind. He grunted with the effort. Fighting the urge to relax, Savas forced his hands to raise his weapon.
About the Author:
As a young girl, Branwen wanted to become an ambassador for aliens. Since the aliens never hired her, she now writes about them.
Branwen OShea has a Bachelors in Biology from Colgate University, a Bachelors in Psychology, and a Masters in Social Work. She lives in Connecticut with her family and a menagerie of pets, and enjoys hiking, meditating, and star-gazing. Her previously published works include contributing to a nonfiction yoga book, wellness magazines, and her published science fiction novella, Silence of the Song Trees.
Website: http://www.branwenoshea.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/branwenoshea
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/branwenoshea
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/branwenoshea
Order Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735915998
Branwen OShea will be awarding a prize pack of 1) One signed paperback,2) One Tote bag with the Finding Humanity Series logo (Savas’ Compass)and 3) Two different bookmarks for The Calling, one signed by the author, to one randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js
December 14, 2020
Book Blast – LATE FOR LOVE
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
The senior sleuths love a good laugh, but this conundrum is no laughing matter. A missing journalist, an African Grey parrot, and a possible mob connection sound like the beginning of a bad joke. Unfortunately, there is no punchline and no one, aside from the seniors, who would dare to take the case on.
Will their first chance to handle a case on their own prove to be way too much for them to handle, and more importantly, could this first be their last?
Read an Excerpt
“Cheez and crackers.” He growled the words, knowing good and well this phone could do close-up shots. He had done it before.
“What’s wrong?” a feminine voice asked.
Jake turned slightly and met the inquisitive stare of a twenty-something nursing aide. It would be embarrassing to admit he was trying to take a photo of the group in the courtyard. None of the sleuths would know how to do it either.
Choices. He swallowed hard and held up his phone. “I forgot how to make the phone take a close-up shot. My great-nephew showed me at one time…” He shrugged his shoulders, leaving the obvious unsaid.
“Okay.” The aide glanced past the phone into the courtyard. “Ah, I see.” She giggled before holding out her hand for the phone.
Once situated in her left hand, she put her thumb and forefinger of her right hand together against the screen, then slowly separated them, making the image larger. “You can do this as many times as you need, making the people larger. I’ll warn you the bigger it is the blurrier it gets. I think it’s sweet you’re trying to get a photo of your crush. Which one is she?”
“There’s no crush,” Jake informed her brusquely. Even though he wasn’t familiar with the helpful aide, it didn’t stop her from talking. The last thing he needed was the staff gossiping about him.
“Uh-huh,” The woman grinned at him. “That’s how my grandpa and grandma met.”
“What?” Jake was certain he’d missed part of the conversation.
“Grandma was coming out of the church…” she started conversationally.
Jake cut his eyes to the courtyard window, worried he might lose his chance for a photo, but he couldn’t duck out of a story that was being related for his benefit. His lips turned up slightly in a forced smile, and he nodded for her to continue. “Church, huh?”
“Yes…” The aide nodded, but it did nothing to slow her narrative. She held her hands up as if holding a small object. “Grandpa was on the other side of the street taking a photo of her leaving church. One of her friends pointed out his action to grandma.”
“Why would he be across the street taking a photo of his own wife?” This story made no sense. He only hoped it got better. Surely there could be no comparison of himself and a man crossing streets to photograph his wife. At least, he hoped not.
The aide, whose name tag identified her as Sheila, chuckled. “They hadn’t met yet. Grandma was a widow and grandpa a long-time bachelor who attended the same church. Anyhow, when grandma saw him taking her photo, she marched right across the street and…”
“I know…” Jake interrupted. “She snatched the camera out of his hands.” A similar incident had happened to him in France.
“No.” Sheila shot Jake a confused look. “She invited him to lunch. They got to know each other and married not too long after.”
Well, that hadn’t turned out the way he thought it would. Too bad he didn’t have that kind of luck. At the moment, he’d be fortunate if the helpful Sheila hit the road. “Great story,” he enthused. “I appreciate the help, too. Don’t let me cut into your break, though.”
About the Author: M. K. Scott is the husband and wife writing team behind The Painted Lady Inn Mysteries and The Talking Dog Detective Agency. Morgan K Wyatt is the general wordsmith, while her husband, Scott, is the grammar hammer and physics specialist. He uses his engineering skills to explain how fast a body falls when pushed over a cliff and various other felonious activities. The Internet and experts in the field provide forensic information, while the recipes and B and B details require a more hands-on approach. Morgan’s daughter, who manages a hotel, provides guest horror stories to fuel the plot lines. The couple’s dog, Chance, is the inspiration behind Jasper, Donna’s dog. Overall, both are fun series to create and read.
Social Media
Website: http://www.morgankwyatt.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorMorganKWyatt
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/morgankwyatt
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5826299.Morgan_K_Wyatt
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/morgankwyatt/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/M-K-Scott/e/B01M4JGK1A/
The book will be on sale for $0.99 on the day of the tour.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08FYX8SCL/ref=x_gr_w_bb_glide_sout
M. K. Scott will be awarding a $40 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
