Sandra C. Lopez's Blog, page 89
December 16, 2023
Review: THE DINOSAUR WHO DISCOVERED HAMBURGERS by Adisan Books
A cute and fun story about findingthe perfect dish. Each ingredient led the dinosaur to the hamburger likeIndiana Jones.
A nice read with colorfulillustrations!
Rating:4 stars
December 15, 2023
Blog Tour: THE JIG IS UP by MK Scott
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. M K Scott will be awarding a $50 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
I looked forward to sipping tea and exploring Mark’s ancestral roots in Ireland, but oh, what a twist of fate!
My life as owner of The Painted Lady Inn hardly prepared me for this. With my detective husband by my side, we embark on a journey filled with mayhem, murder, and mischief.
As I savor every bite of Irish stew and soak in the breathtaking scenery, little do I know that our vacation will turn into a whirlwind of sleuthing.
Who could have imagined the secrets hidden behind Mark’s family tree? And what dark secrets lurk in this picturesque village, threatening to shatter the tranquility?
The jig is up, and it’s up to us to untangle the web of intrigue.
Read an Excerpt
The car rental rep was definitely not a warm-and-fuzzy gal, but Donna put her money on Mark. He could be charming when he needed to be.
His lips curved up into a smile. “Surely, you have at least one vehicle. I’m not picky.”
What a fib! It looked like the rep bought it. The woman leaned over the counter and pointed to an open garage area. “Go inside there and ask for Liam. Tell him you want the emergency special. It’s a car we save for people who fail to make reservations and yet still need a car.”
Donna prided herself on reading people and knew there wouldn’t be the expected happy ending to their dilemma. Her husband, on the other hand, effusively thanked the woman and slipped her a colorful bill in gratitude. Not being familiar with euros, it could have been anything from a fifty to a dollar.
As for Liam, he must have gone on break because they toured the garage for a good twenty minutes. They commented on car models not seen in the US and speculated if they’d get the convertible, Land Rover, or the Volkswagen Golf. After asking several employees in coveralls, they finally located Liam, which was a relief since one of the wheels on her suitcase had just seized up. She couldn’t mention the issue since her husband would point out they had perfectly good, non-tie-dyed suitcases at home with wheels that worked.
Liam, a man of few words, listened as Mark repeated his story, including the bit about searching for his ancestors. Instead of commenting on how great it was that Mark could have some Irish ancestry, Liam responded with, “She said the emergency special?”
“She did,” Mark replied with a nod.
“Aye.” Liam grimaced, then yelled something to a younger employee about getting the car.
She heard the emphasis on the even if Mark didn’t. A few minutes later a bright yellow car just a little bigger than a bicycle pulled up in front of Liam. “Here ya go. She’s small. You’ll only have her for a wee bit. She’s easy to park, too.”
All in all, it was a cute car—and very different from Mark’s usual sedan. Her husband remained speechless, while Donna handled practicalities. “Do you think our luggage will fit in it?”
“No problem.” He motioned to his young helper. “Pull out the back seat.”
“It has a backseat?” She couldn’t imagine anything fitting into the back.
“In theory. With the seat gone, it makes the trunk a bit roomier.” Liam sunk his hands in his pockets and made a slow circuit around their luggage. “We should be able to cram that inside. Don’t buy anything until you move to a larger vehicle.”
Both Liam and his helper speculated on how to pack the car, while Mark finally shook off his stupor. “I never knew they made cars this small. Can it possibly be safe?”
“We’re not going that far. Isn’t their town just ten miles or so out of Dublin?”
“There about.”
While their luggage was wrestled inside the mini vehicle, Donna strolled to the front. Eyelashes decorated the round, front headlights. “How cute. The car has eyelashes.”
Mark rolled his eyes and muttered something about how he tipped for this. While her husband acted surprised, Donna wasn’t. She had summed up the counter rep as possibly in the wrong profession and not to be trusted. Not the car they wanted, but it would serve.
About the Author
M. K. Scott is the Morgan and Scott cozy mystery writing team of The Painted Lady Inn Mysteries, The Talking Dog Detective Agency, The Way Over the Hill Gang, Cupid’s Catering Company, and The Tenacious Librarian series. Morgan pens the tales, while Scott serves as first editor and webmaster. Daughter Sarah handles the social media and Jane the Lab supervises digging in the garden.Amazon Author Page: https://smile.amazon.com/M-K-Scott/e/B01M4JGK1A
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/m-k-scott
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMorganKWyatt/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2863959.M_K_Scott
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morgankwyatt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorMKScott
Website: http://www.morgankwyatt.com/
The book is on sale for only $0.99.
Amazon: Amazon.a Rafflecopter giveaway
December 14, 2023
Blog Tour: THE SANTA GAMES by Leanne Treese
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will award a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Reeling from a broken engagement, Andi Carter swears off men. She quits her job in New York and returns home to figure out next steps. Luckily, she quickly finds a job--one that will take her mind off her ex--as a caretaker for an elderly widower, Liam Quinn. Liam is the owner of Christmastown, a holiday-themed amusement park that shut down years ago. But he’s anxious to reopen it, and Andi, loving the concept, throws herself into helping him. It’s the perfect distraction. Bonus: there are no eligible men for miles.
Until Matt Taylor shows up to audit the park.
Matt is handsome, charming, and full of surprises. Even Liam’s notoriously cranky cat, Claus, likes him. Andi works with Matt on a Christmastown project and platonic feelings turn into a full-fledged crush…maybe a little more. She likes this guy. Unbelievably, Matt seems to like her back.
Only she soon discovers that Matt isn’t who he says he is. So now, Andi has another decision to make—run away and start over—again? Or stay, and hear Matt out? After all, Christmas is the season of miracles…
Read an Excerpt
She doesn’t finish her sentence. She doesn’t have to. I know how it ends. Andi needs Christmastown to become a reality.
And I’ve been charged with making sure that doesn’t happen.
***
Review: After the crash-and-burn of herengagement, Andi becomes determined to get Christmastown, a holiday dilapidatedtheme park, up and running again. The place was owned by a 90-year-old man, andhis daughter, worried of the financial ramifications, sends a spy to look outfor things.
There’s instant chemistry and aconnection between Andi and Matt. Right away, he feels guilty about startingoff on a lie with her. The missions were different: she was working to get thetheme park open and he was sent to shut it down. Still, Matt roots that Andiwill be able to pull it off and offers to help in any way he can. They come upwith the idea to arrange a fundraiser for potential investors, calling it TheSanta Games. But it’s all fun and games until a fire breaks out and Matt’s bossfinds out what he’s been up to.
But none of that keeps them fromopening Christmastown.
Witty and engaging! Matt and Andiwere great together with their friendly banter and playfulness. Although thetwo were having fun, the hard reality was this: how could they make this happenwithout any investors?
The characters had incrediblefaith in their dream. It was Christmastown or bust!
What happens when the truth comespouring out and Andi has to make a choice of whether to stay or leave? Thisstory keeps you reading all the way!
A lighthearted, warm, and romanticread! Just perfect for the holidays!
Rating:5 stars
About the Author:
Leanne Treese is an award-winning author of women's fiction and romance. Her books have each independently been described as having "all the feels." When she's not writing, Leanne loves running, forcing her family to play board games (Settlers of Catan anyone?), and spoiling her beloved dogs. Leanne's favorite locations include her backyard, the Jersey shore, and anywhere that sells books or coffee, preferably both. A lifelong learner, Leanne's dream life would include going back to college and majoring in everything.Website: http://www.leannetreese.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorleanne50
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/leannetreese
Read the book for free on https://www.amazon.com/Santa-Games-Leanne-Treese-ebook/dp/B0BB3GR3S7/ref=sr_1_1
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Blog Tour: BOOMER THE CURIOUS BUNNY by Diann Floyd Boehm
Whatwill Boomer find?
Boomerthe Curious Bunny
byDiann Floyd Boehm
Genre:Children's Animal Picture Book
Whatwill Boomer find?
Boomer is a curious bunny who lovesexcitement. Staying home doesn’t offer him the same fun it giveshis brothers and sisters, so he hops off to see what he can see. Whenhe does, what do you think awaits him?
Join this adorablefurry rabbit as he heads off into the city where he meets a range ofcharacters and goes on a variety of adventures. Will his discoveriesbe the joyful experiences he expects?
***
Writtenfor children ages 3 to 9. This is a delightful tale for parents toread with their kids or for young readers to enjoy.
**Getit direct from the publisher for Only .99cents!!**
Amazon* B&N* Kobo* Bookbub* Goodreads
This is the story about a bunnythat was too curious. One day, Boomer decides to follow up on this curiosity byfollowing a human runner. He follows the runner all the way out of the forestand into a residential neighborhood, where everything just seemed strange andforeign to him. Flying kites, bouncing balls, and a barking dog. What werethese things?
“Boy, people have funny-lookingpaws.”
The illustrations were simple andcute. I especially liked the scene when he runs over to another bunny only tosmack his head on his own reflection. Too cute!
An adorable and easy read! Goes toshow that there’s no place like home.
Rating:4 stars
DiannFloyd Boehm isan award-winning, bestselling author. Her books inspire not onlyimagination but also self-empowerment, kindness, and inclusion. As ahumanitarian, Diann has traveled extensively, meeting many people,and experiencing many cultures. She believes in sharing the joy ofdiversity, the beauty of individuality, and blessings of communitywith her readers.
Diannis the co-host with Dr. Jacalyn on USAGLOBALTV.Together, the duo brings entertaining topics alive, aspiring tospread global knowledge, awareness, and hope. They welcome variousguests to discuss relevant issues to modern living, includingeverything from books to business.
Anotherwonderful endeavor of this amazing lady is StoryGarden.Being a professional educator, Diann understands the importance ofliteracy. She knows readingaloud has a vital impact on oral and written communication skills.Therefore, she coordinates a program for authors to read books onlinefor kids and adults alike to enjoy!
Diannis a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoys quilting andsinging. In addition to spending time with her loved ones, shetreasures the opportunity to meet new people and experience newthings.
Website* Facebook * X* Instagram* Amazon* Goodreads
Followthe tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
$20 Amazon
a Rafflecopter giveaway
December 13, 2023
Q&A with Mark Rosendorf, author of WICCAN MIRROR
TELLUS ABOUT YOUR NEW BOOK, WICCAN MIRROR.
WiccanMirror is the fifth and final chapter of The Witches of Vegas series, a seriesabout a found family of witches, and their vampire mentor, Luther, who hide inplain sight as stage magicians on the Vegas strip. Each chapter of The Witchesof Vegas series has a different theme.
Book1, The Witches of Vegas, introduces our characters and finds them having todeal with a threat from Luther’s past that has come back looking for revenge.The fight determines the fate of all of Las Vegas.
Book2, Journey to New Salem, opens the Wiccan world of The Witches of Vegas beyondVegas. Here, we meet a hidden community of witches and other supernaturalbeings.
Book3, Witch’s Gamble, forces our characters through time and alternate realitieswhere one simple change to the past effects everything we’ve ever known aboutthis family.
Book4, Witch Way to Vegas, deals with new enemies along with the repercussions ofeverything that happened in Witch’s Gamble…including the PTSD our characters mustendure.
Finally,book 5, Wiccan Mirror, brings everything together in unexpected ways. Althoughit helps to read the previous stories, Wiccan Mirror can be read as astandalone story. This should have been an easy adventure where the familyreturns to Vegas for a reunion show. But everything falls apart. Isis Rivera’sboyfriend and teen magician, Zack Galloway, is kidnapped. Isis is the primesuspect in a murder she is sure she never committed. These events coincide withthe arrival of an enemy from a history that no longer exists, who is on amission that will lead to the end of the world. Luckily, they have a plan.
EnterHarry, a boy from the future who will be Earth's last surviving human. He hascome back in time to let everyone know that their plan to save the world, andall life on it, won't work. How can The Witches of Vegas win when they aredestined to lose?
WHATDRIVES YOUR CHARACTERS IN YOUR STORY AND HOW DO THEY CHANGE IN THE FINAL BOOKOF THIS SERIES?
AllI can say is that everything changes in the final book of the series. Is it apositive way, a negative way, or something in between? Check out Wiccan Mirrorto find out.
WHATWOULD YOU SAY IS A PIVOTAL SCENE IN YOUR BOOK AND WHY?
Thefinal scenes of Wiccan Mirror, to me, are pivotal because it brings everythingthat has happened not only in this story but the entire series together. I suspectthis is a resolution that readers won’t see coming.
IFYOUR BOOK WERE TO BE MADE INTO A MOVIE, WHO WOULD BE YOUR CAST?
Asthe writer, we really don’t have a say in who is cast for the parts. However, Ithink Nico Parker would be a great choice to play Isis Rivera. Also, sincemagic is a huge part of The Witches of Vegas series, I would also want someonefrom the Vegas magical community to play roles. For example, I could see JustinFlom as Sebastian Santell, and Teller (from Penn and Teller) as Uncle Herb.
WHAT WAS THE HARDEST PART ABOUT WRITING THIS BOOK ANDWHAT DID YOU DO TO OVERCOME IT?
I admit, after five books with these characters, thehardest part of writing Wiccan Mirror was knowing that this would be the lasttime I’d write for them. However, I feel after five books, I’ve done all I canwith them. I know readers love these characters, but I wouldn’t want to put outmore Witches of Vegas books if they’re not up to the same quality of the first five.These five stories were planned out from the moment I started with chapter oneof The Witches of Vegas.
Now, with that said, could The Witches of Vegas returnsomeday? There’s always that possibility if an idea hits me and I just need totell that story, much like I needed to tell these stories. However, there areworkings as we speak to bring The Witches of Vegas to the big screen. It’s inthe early stages, but it is in the works so keep an eye on that.
DOYOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW WRITERS?
My advice is to get ready for a long,frustrating, and exhausting process, and that’s after the book is written.Whether you’re looking for a traditional publisher or you want to self-publish,you have a lot of work ahead of you. But, remember, nothing in life worth doingis easy. When you finally see your book in print, when you look at your coverfor the first time, all that hard work is well worth it.
Onething to keep in mind: when your book finally becomes real, understand that’snot the goal…that’s the starting line. It doesn’t mean you won your race, itmeans you are now entering the race, a race that never ends because there arealways people out there that haven’t read your book yet and you want them toknow about it.
DO YOU HAVE A BLOG OR WEBSITE READERS CAN VISIT FORUPDATES, EVENTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS?
I invite everyone to out my website at www.markrosendorf.com or follow me on twitter https://twitter.com/MarkRosendorf I can promise you updates on upcoming writingprojects and the possibility of a Witches of Vegas TV series in the near future.
Buy Wiccan Mirror on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CHWN9HWV/
December 12, 2023
Blog Tour: THE RIVER AGAINST THE SEA by Z. Lindsey
The River Against the Sea
by Z. Lindsey
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GENRE: New Adult Fantasy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
BLURB:
Some heroes have swords. Essimore Darkenchylhas a pen. But it’s a magic pen.
Some wizards have spellbooks. Essie has Gossen’sGuide to Shipping Law. But it’s a current edition.
Some sailors have . . . experience. Essie has a newdiploma and a year-long contract, and her people have won wars with less.
And that’s good, because between stolen weapons, acoup, and a strange disease creeping in around her and the crew, she might needto win a war.
In a world that blends traditional fantasy with theAge of Exploration, Essie knows a pen is mightier than a sword, especiallysince hers sometimes shoots lightning.
But what she thinks is a routine political disputeturns out to be something much, much more, and she may have finally met the oneproblem she can’t talk her way out of.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Excerpt One:
Essie cleared her throat. From her backpack, she removed theletter of service that granted her travel permission to sail on the ship. Itwas folded neatly into thirds, with a glittering blue wax seal on it.
“Essimore Darkenchyl at your service, sir. I’m your newfully licensed shipping coordinator with Power of the Pen. It’s an honor to beaboard.”
The captain took the letter without opening it, folded it inhalf with no regard for the beautiful wax seal, folded it messily again, andjammed it into his pocket. The whole time, Essie winced.
“Right-o.” As he smiled, the older man’s cheeks dimpled andhis white teeth shined in the sun. “Well, I thought we were leaving withoutyou, but here you are. Good on you. Great. Yeah.” The captain turned to theteenager at his side. “Grab her bag and get her stuff to her room. She can hangout there til dinner.”
As the teenager shouldered her bag and grunted, she and thecaptain looked at each other, the captain with his beaming smile. Once theteenager left, she said, “Thanks for welcoming me onto your ship.”
“Yeah. Fully licensed, you say?”
“Absolutely!”
“Okay. Have a nice one. See you at dinner.”
“Don’t we need to . . . uh . . . onboard?”
“You’re already on board. You managed that just fine.”
“But . . . signing things. Paperwork. Reviewing the stafflog. Staff log, sir!”
The captain’s smile faded, but reappeared so fast she wasn’tsure if she’d seen it go.
“Okay, fine. Let’s talk in my cabin.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What makes this bookdifferent from any other book in this genre?
I love fantasy, but my wifedoes not. I wrote this story for her, so right off the bat, this isn’t the kindof fantasy book where you need to memorize twelve generations of kings to knowwhat the heck is going on. Like my wife, the character is a woman of color froma tiny town in the desert. She’s not a chosen one (neither is my wife as far aswe know), and she mostly just wants to go about her business.
Essie’s not your typicaladventurer; she’s a young woman with a new job who is more worried about thingsgoing wrong at work than the world ending. Unfortunately for her, the god ofdeath is interested in the end of theworld, although not the way one might expect.
Although this can be readon its own, I’ve got a trilogy already written and ready to go, so the wholestory is her journey to realizing she doesn’t have to live up to anyone’sexpectations but her own. It’s kind of a reverse-”chosen one” story. Instead ofbeing forced into some sacred destiny, the story sees her stop feeling the needto be defined by the identities that have been put upon her by her family andthe society she lives in.
The setting is also a breakfrom traditional fantasy. As a resident of southern Mexico, I wrote about afantastical version of my home, removing readers from the European-style townsof most swords and sorcery and placing them on an island that would be right athome in the Caribbean if it weren’t for the magic.
Finally, the tone is lessgrimdark than a lot of recent fantasy. I wrote this book five years ago now,when my daughter was a baby. That was right as Game of Thrones was winding down. I don’t dislike dark fantasy, but A Song of Ice and Fire seems to haveencouraged a wave of absolutely bleak fantasy. There are dark parts to thebook, because a great hero can only shine in the dark (especially if theyhappen to have glowing eyes). But I consider this whole trilogy project a bitof an anti-Game of Thrones: If youthink it has a happy ending, you’re mostly right.
Although bleak fantasy hasbeen mainstream for a few decades, it is hardly the only style of fantasyfiction, and many of my favorite fantasy stories aren’t bleak. One way thisbook is like my favorite fantasy is that it is a story of wonder and hope, astory of unlikely alliances blossoming into deep friendships, and a story of aperson who could be any of us stepping up and doing the right thing. Like anygood hero, Essie gets put through the ringer, but her sense of humor and hersense of wonder survive the story, and I think that message is alwaysimportant.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Zac Lindsey is ananthropologist and a linguist who focuses on the Maya people of Quintana Roo.Since childhood, he's had a not-so-secret love of weird, silly, andwell-structured fantasy. When other people's parents were reading them picturebooks, his mom was reading him Terry Brooks. He typically writes hopeful andcharacter-driven fantasy.
Today, he livesin Quintana Roo, Mexico with his wife, daughter, and various stray cats.
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/z.lindsey_fiction/
Face: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550498257222
Amazon preorders(for ebook): https://www.amazon.com/River-Against-Sea-Z-Lindsey-ebook/dp/B0CH3TW3YD/
B&N preorders(for paperback): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-river-against-the-sea-z-lindsey/1144077772
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GIVEAWAY :
Z. Lindsey will be awarding a $20 Amazon or Barnes andNoble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.a Rafflecopter giveawayBlog Tour: THE RIVER AGAISNT THE SEA by Z. Lindsey
The River Against the Sea
by Z. Lindsey
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GENRE: New Adult Fantasy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
BLURB:
Some heroes have swords. Essimore Darkenchylhas a pen. But it’s a magic pen.
Some wizards have spellbooks. Essie has Gossen’sGuide to Shipping Law. But it’s a current edition.
Some sailors have . . . experience. Essie has a newdiploma and a year-long contract, and her people have won wars with less.
And that’s good, because between stolen weapons, acoup, and a strange disease creeping in around her and the crew, she might needto win a war.
In a world that blends traditional fantasy with theAge of Exploration, Essie knows a pen is mightier than a sword, especiallysince hers sometimes shoots lightning.
But what she thinks is a routine political disputeturns out to be something much, much more, and she may have finally met the oneproblem she can’t talk her way out of.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Excerpt One:
Essie cleared her throat. From her backpack, she removed theletter of service that granted her travel permission to sail on the ship. Itwas folded neatly into thirds, with a glittering blue wax seal on it.
“Essimore Darkenchyl at your service, sir. I’m your newfully licensed shipping coordinator with Power of the Pen. It’s an honor to beaboard.”
The captain took the letter without opening it, folded it inhalf with no regard for the beautiful wax seal, folded it messily again, andjammed it into his pocket. The whole time, Essie winced.
“Right-o.” As he smiled, the older man’s cheeks dimpled andhis white teeth shined in the sun. “Well, I thought we were leaving withoutyou, but here you are. Good on you. Great. Yeah.” The captain turned to theteenager at his side. “Grab her bag and get her stuff to her room. She can hangout there til dinner.”
As the teenager shouldered her bag and grunted, she and thecaptain looked at each other, the captain with his beaming smile. Once theteenager left, she said, “Thanks for welcoming me onto your ship.”
“Yeah. Fully licensed, you say?”
“Absolutely!”
“Okay. Have a nice one. See you at dinner.”
“Don’t we need to . . . uh . . . onboard?”
“You’re already on board. You managed that just fine.”
“But . . . signing things. Paperwork. Reviewing the stafflog. Staff log, sir!”
The captain’s smile faded, but reappeared so fast she wasn’tsure if she’d seen it go.
“Okay, fine. Let’s talk in my cabin.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What makes this bookdifferent from any other book in this genre?
I love fantasy, but my wifedoes not. I wrote this story for her, so right off the bat, this isn’t the kindof fantasy book where you need to memorize twelve generations of kings to knowwhat the heck is going on. Like my wife, the character is a woman of color froma tiny town in the desert. She’s not a chosen one (neither is my wife as far aswe know), and she mostly just wants to go about her business.
Essie’s not your typicaladventurer; she’s a young woman with a new job who is more worried about thingsgoing wrong at work than the world ending. Unfortunately for her, the god ofdeath is interested in the end of theworld, although not the way one might expect.
Although this can be readon its own, I’ve got a trilogy already written and ready to go, so the wholestory is her journey to realizing she doesn’t have to live up to anyone’sexpectations but her own. It’s kind of a reverse-”chosen one” story. Instead ofbeing forced into some sacred destiny, the story sees her stop feeling the needto be defined by the identities that have been put upon her by her family andthe society she lives in.
The setting is also a breakfrom traditional fantasy. As a resident of southern Mexico, I wrote about afantastical version of my home, removing readers from the European-style townsof most swords and sorcery and placing them on an island that would be right athome in the Caribbean if it weren’t for the magic.
Finally, the tone is lessgrimdark than a lot of recent fantasy. I wrote this book five years ago now,when my daughter was a baby. That was right as Game of Thrones was winding down. I don’t dislike dark fantasy, but A Song of Ice and Fire seems to haveencouraged a wave of absolutely bleak fantasy. There are dark parts to thebook, because a great hero can only shine in the dark (especially if theyhappen to have glowing eyes). But I consider this whole trilogy project a bitof an anti-Game of Thrones: If youthink it has a happy ending, you’re mostly right.
Although bleak fantasy hasbeen mainstream for a few decades, it is hardly the only style of fantasyfiction, and many of my favorite fantasy stories aren’t bleak. One way thisbook is like my favorite fantasy is that it is a story of wonder and hope, astory of unlikely alliances blossoming into deep friendships, and a story of aperson who could be any of us stepping up and doing the right thing. Like anygood hero, Essie gets put through the ringer, but her sense of humor and hersense of wonder survive the story, and I think that message is alwaysimportant.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Zac Lindsey is ananthropologist and a linguist who focuses on the Maya people of Quintana Roo.Since childhood, he's had a not-so-secret love of weird, silly, andwell-structured fantasy. When other people's parents were reading them picturebooks, his mom was reading him Terry Brooks. He typically writes hopeful andcharacter-driven fantasy.
Today, he livesin Quintana Roo, Mexico with his wife, daughter, and various stray cats.
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/z.lindsey_fiction/
Face: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550498257222
Amazon preorders(for ebook): https://www.amazon.com/River-Against-Sea-Z-Lindsey-ebook/dp/B0CH3TW3YD/
B&N preorders(for paperback): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-river-against-the-sea-z-lindsey/1144077772
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GIVEAWAY :
Z. Lindsey will be awarding a $20 Amazon or Barnes andNoble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.a Rafflecopter giveawayDecember 11, 2023
Blog Tour: Red Lily series by Anna J. Stewart
She'llrisk everything to expose the truth.
Vanished
Circle of the Red Lily Book 2
by Anna J. Stewart
Genre: Romantic Suspense
She'llrisk everything to expose the truth.
Since her twin sister Sylvie's disappearance seven years ago,single mother Mabel Reynolds has turned grief into action and becomea strong voice for victims of violence and abuse.
When new revelations shed light on what may have happened not onlyto Sylvie, but dozens of other women, Mabel's hope for answers isreignited. But the new oh-so-charming DA overseeing the investigationseems more interested in a quick rather than an accurate resolution.
With little faith in the system, Mabel isn’t about to stayquiet, not when she’s finally close to the truth. She’s willingto go up against anyone—even a smug, irritating, attractive DA toget the answers she and other families deserve.
Open and shut.
That's what Assistant DA Paul Flynn has been told about his newassignment supervising a house of horrors case. With a high-profileconviction at stake, Paul can’t afford to make a wrong move if hisprofessional goals are to be achieved.
But Mabel Reynolds has his attention. All of it. Attraction aside,the woman knows far more than what’s in the official files whichmakes her something even more intriguing. But using Mabel as an assetmeans exposing her and her young daughter to even more danger. Dangerthat is closing in on them from every side. As even darker forcesappear, and their lives are threatened, Paul is faced with riskingnot only his entire career, but also the one thing he neveranticipated losing: his heart.
Amazon* ArcManorBooks *Bookbub* Goodreads
Exposed
Circleof the Red Lily Book 1
2023Finalist for the Daphne du Maurier Award
Workingas a Hollywood photographer means Riley Temple has seen it all. Butthen she finds herself staring at the chilling image of a dead woman.When her questions about the film lead to violence, she reluctantlyturns to the only person who can help. Detective Quinn Burton, thepolice commissioner’s son. Her history with the LAPD iscomplicated, her trust in authority, tenuous. But to find thoseresponsible and protect those closest to her, she’s willing to doanything. Even trust a cop.
After more than a decade onthe job, Quinn knows a dangerous situation when he sees it and RileyTemple is up to her ears in trouble. But not for the reason shethinks. The pictures she’s stumbled on call into a question anotorious murder conviction—one that powerful people have a vestedinterest in keeping in place. Seeing this case through meansbetraying someone: his job, his family, or the woman he’s fallingin love with.
As old secrets are revealed, Quinn and Rileyfind themselves targeted by members of a secret society that has longmaintained violent control over Hollywood’s powerful elite. Asociety that, until now, has remained hidden in the shadows. Asociety that will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.
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What inspired you to write this book?
Well, it’s the follow-up to EXPOSED and picks up a fewmonths after the end of that book so my inspiration was necessity, LOL. Thestory has to continue (and I do plan for five books in the series total). VANISHEDwas a story I was anxious to write for a variety of reasons, but mainly Iwanted to dive deep into the connection between twins. Mabel, my heroine, is atwin and it’s her twin sister Sylvie’s disappearance that drives her in justabout every aspect of her life. Coping with that loss, that element of unknown,where she knows her sister is gone but she hasn’t necessarily accepted it yet,was appealing to me as a writer. I try to find new elements to explore witheach book I write, so that was probably the biggest factor of inspiration thistime around.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Book three will be out this time next year—I will startwriting it after the holidays I think (depending on my other deadlines). I havea title and cover already (the cover is awesome!), but I’m holding offannouncing it just yet. Each book will expand on the previous, so announcing itnow will give a little away as to what happens in VANISHED. I can share thatit’ll be Cassia’s story and I can’t wait to find out her backstory. I don’tplot, so I don’t have the answers about her agoraphobia and PTSD, but I’m goingto do my best to make her issues unique and hopefully emotionally impactful.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in VANISHED?
Oh, there’s a large cast of characters but the three mainones are Mabel Reynolds, an accountant by trade but she volunteers as a rape advocate.It’s something she started doing after her sister disappeared; Mabel couldn’tdo anything to help her sister, but she feels like she can make up for herfailings by helping others who survive vicious attacks. She’s a single motherto almost nine-year-old Keeley who is just a spitfire of a little girl. I lovewriting children into my books, but I underestimated how difficult it would beto include one in a suspense/thriller. Finding that balance of keeping her safebut also putting her in the crosshairs was challenging for sure.
Lastly there’s Paul Flynn is the main hero, Mabel’s loveinterest, and a special investigator for the DA’s office. He has a history withLos Angeles, one he’s not anxious to revisit, but he’s also a loyal anddedicated friend and he’s asked to come back to oversee the house of horrorscase that’s unfolding due to the ending events of EXPOSED (book 1 in the Circleof the Red Lily series). He’s determined to go through life alone, which madepairing him off with a single mother so much fun. The last thing he wants is afamily (for reasons readers will find out, obviously), which means that’s whathe’s going to be getting.
How did you come up with the concept and characters forthe book?
I knew when I wrote book 1 (EXPOSED), that one of the fivemain heroines introduced would have a connection to the case that’s blown openin that story. Mabel made the most sense because she was very logic minded andshe was a single mother. She was a crusader given her work as a volunteer sogiving her a solid connection to the missing women expanded her motivation.That kind of personality clashes with the hero needed to oversee theinvestigation into the case that’s causing some major political and professionalissues for a lot of people in various positions of local government and thefilm industry. I usually start with conflict when beginning my stories, sopitting Mabel against Paul even when they’re going to be unofficially workingtogether, just got the ball rolling on the story itself.
The titles are playing an important part in the stories,too. EXPOSED was the first title—and at the end a number of things had beenjust that—brought into the light, including the dozens of missing women whohave gone missing over decades. People really can just vanish; it’s a sadreality for a lot of friends and families, so in that way, the title fed intothe story.
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
Coming up with names is always one of my favorite bits ofcreation I get to do. I usually spend a couple of days going through TheCharacter Naming Sourcebook (I have 3 copies!) and jotting down names that justspeak to me. I tend to lean toward different types of names; unusual ones.
Where the Circle of the Red Lily books are concerned,however, there’s an added dimension I played with. All of the lead characters(five heroines, five heroes) have some name connection to a classic Hollywoodactor or actress. Paul Flynn, for instance, is named for Paul Newman and ErrolFlynn. Mabel Reynolds is named after Debbie Reynolds, one of my all-timefavorite actresses. Mixing and matching a bunch of them was a bit of a puzzle Igot to put together before I even started writing book 1. As the books getpublished, readers can try to figure out who the references are with thecharacter names.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
The banter between Mabel and Paul. Whenever these two wereon the page together, it just sang. They’re blatantly honest with each otherpretty much from their first meeting and there was something refreshing aboutthat and also freeing for me as a writer. The censor wasn’t in play like itnormally is. And the scenes between Paul and Keeley, Mabel’s daughter. I couldwrite those all day! Their Star Wars Monopoly game was particularlyentertaining. I remember smiling like a fool the whole time I was writing thatscene.
Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick?
What makes Mabel tick? Her unending quest for answers. She’sdetermined to find out what happened to her sister and she’s willing to doanything. She makes enemies as easily as she makes friends because she’s nottaking no for an answer. Losing her twin has left her feeling as if she’smissing a piece of herself and to her mind, the truth is the only thing that’sgoing to bring her any peace.
As far as Paul Flynn? He’s all about getting justice for thevoiceless. Victims, their families, the people who can’t speak for themselvesanymore? He’s going to be their champion in court and beyond. Like Mabel, he’lldo what has to be done to get the job finished. They compliment each other inthat way, but it also means they’re going to butt heads a lot.
Who designed your book covers?
Authors on a Dime does my covers. My publisher was sofabulous in agreeing to let me hire the designer and I love the entire process.Kristen and I are friends (she’s an author as well) and she gets me. We almosthave a shorthand at this point. When we were working on book 1, we knew wewanted to go with similar theming and a specific look that would go across allfive novels, so landing on that “feel” took a few back and forths. For book 3on the other hand? She nailed it on her first attempt. Seriously, I can’t waitto share that one because it’s my favorite one yet!
If you had to do it all over again, would you changeanything in your latest book?
Well, I can honestly say I wouldn’t change anything inVANISHED, mainly because I wrote the entire book twice. When I turned it in thefirst time, I just wasn’t happy with it. And it was keeping me up at night. SoI asked for it back and hacked it apart, reworked it, and made all the changesthat were bugging me. It ended up as an entire rewrite (and even ended updelaying its release), but I’m thrilled with how it turned out. And my editoreven said she was glad I took it back to rework it. Needed to get those twistsand turns a bit tighter and more unexpected.
If your book was made into a film, who would you like toplay the lead?
Oh, this is a fun one to answer because I’ve actually “cast”all of the main characters in this series in my head. And in my notes. Mabelwould be played by actress AJ Cook who plays JJ on Criminal Minds. It’s justwho I’ve always seen in the role. As far as Paul Flynn? I envision BradleyCooper; he’s got that swoon-worthy Hollywood thing going on that fits Paul to aT.
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
There’s a scene toward the end where I needed a huge eventto happen that would endanger not only my main characters, but also a lot ofinnocent bystanders. Navigating all of that, piecing all of it together andkeeping the intensity and pacing up was a challenge, but I think it’s some ofthe best writing I’ve done to date. I won’t give it away, because I think it’sa bit unexpected, but for readers who are waiting for it after reading thisblog, I’ll just say Ka-Boom!
If you could spend time with a character from your bookwho would it be? And what would you do during that day?
Oh, that would be Aunt Moxie, Riley Temple’s (book 1’sheroine) great aunt. She’s eighty years old and is known for playing aparticular role back when she was in her 20’s. She’s lived through the GoldenAge of Hollywood and has a huge collection of movie memorabilia. I would loveto just hang out with her and hear all the stories of the people she workedwith and knew. Even though she’s fictional.
Are your characters based off real people or did they allcome entirely from your imagination?
All my main characters are my own creation. I’d feel limitedand nervous writing someone based on anyone I know in real life. Secondarycharacters on the other hand, tend to be based off real people and murdervictims and bad guys have a tendency to be inspired by people who have tickedme off in some way. It’s very cathartic.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do youfeel like you have the reigns of the story?
They always highjack the story and I’m a better writerbecause of it. Like I said, I don’t plot, so the characters have to show me theway. They don’t always get what they want, but I always give them what theyneed.
Convince us why you feel your book is a must read.
All of these Circle of the Red Lily books are kitchen sinkbooks: there’s something in them for everyone. There’s romance (of course!),there’s mystery and suspense, twists and turns, there’s tons of humor (andsarcasm because it’s me) and a group of tight-knit friends who will do anythingfor one another. Pick up any of my books and it will always be aboutfamily—family found and family made. If that’s your cuppa, then grab VANISHED!
Have you written any other books that are not published?
I’ve got TONS of stories that haven’t been published, mostof them paranormal romance. At this point I don’t think I anticipate they willbe. I’m having way too much fun writing suspense and thrillers. I’ve got someideas as far as moving into a different romance genre, but I’m afraid most ofthose will remain under the bed.
AnnaJ Stewart is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fiftysweet to spicy romances. Primarily writing for Harlequin’sHeartwarming (sweet romance) and Romantic Suspense (spicy) lines, shealso writes romantic thrillers for Arc Manor’s Caezik Romance. Inaddition to being a Holt Medallion winner (Bride on the Run), she’sfinaled in the Daphne duMaurier Award for Excellence, the NationalReaders’ Choice and had one of her books optioned as a TV movie. Nomatter the story, Anna’s books are always about family—the oneswe’re born to and the ones we create. Anna lives in NorthernCalifornia where she loves going to the movies, attending fanconventions, and heading to Disneyland, her favorite place on earth.When she’s not writing, she is usually cooking, baking,binge-watching her newest TV addiction, or re-watching her all-timefavorite shows, Supernatural and all things StarTrek. She also spends a frustrating amount of timewrangling two monstrous cats named Rosie and Sherlock.
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Followthe tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
$20 Amazon
Blog Tour: WITH GOD WE BURN by Joshua Lange
With God We Burn
by Joshua Lange
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GENRE: Historical Romance
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BLURB:
Julien Allais, a French Catholic, prays for only one thing: tokneel before God in the Holy Land of Jerusalem, far from his home inConstantinople, the capital of the Christian world in AD 1096. Joining thesilver-clad Crusaders arriving from the west to free the Holy Land seems likethe answer to his prayers.
Youngand untrained, Julien is soon captured, abandoned by the knights he hadtrusted. Despite what he was told, his Muslim captors are not Godless fiends.Ahtmar, a boy near his own age, is among his captors, and Ahtmar’s sister Zahratends to Julien’s wounds. As Julien’s feelings for Zahra and respect for Ahtmargrow, he questions everything he thought he knew. The Jerusalem they describeis a bustling city ruled by the Turks for the sake of all residents, no mattertheir faith. It doesn’t need to be freed – it needs to be protected from theCrusaders who will destroy it in the name of their faith.
AsJulien and his captors travel to Jerusalem, a forbidden love between Julien andZahra is born. This love will change them both. Will it have the power tochange a world at war?
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Excerpt One:
Chapter 1 June, 1096 — Constantinople
With my hands clasped and my eyes closed, I prayed. Lord,please protect my father and I. Bless us so that we might get by – even if it’sonly for a few more months. Please, lift our spirits and ease our burdens. Isqueezed my eyes shut tighter, pushed my knees firmly into the cold floor, andsat up straighter, as if that would somehow hasten my communication withheaven. I want to travel to Jerusalem. I want to complete my pilgrimage.Please, dear God, allow this to happen. Allow us to find our way to your holycity.
My next thoughts had been my heaviest, and I hesitated insharing them with God, even though He already knew. Father says I should becontent. He says I should simply wait until a path to Jerusalem opens. But itdoesn’t feel like it’s that simple. Please, guide me, Lord… Amen.
I gazed up at the impossibly high ceiling, which was markedwith delicate, colorful paintings of Jesus, and a clear window that was like aview to heaven itself. The dusk sunlight beamed down upon the hundreds of loyalchurch followers and cast many of us in a deep, orange light.
The church was supported by stunning pillars and walls madeof stone and marble, and featured stained glass windows that depicted themiracle that was the life of Jesus. They showed him bearing the crown ofthorns, suffering on the cross, healing the sick, and returning to life – theywere all a reminder that our pain was nothing in the grand scheme of things. Aperson-sized crucifix watched over me from the far end of the room.
I concluded my prayers feeling energized but unsatisfied. Ididn’t allow my impatience to get the best of me, though, especially insidethis house of salvation. I darted by the Greek citizens in their brightlycolored dalmatic tunics and headed outside.
The city had been truly unbelievable. A far cry from France,where things were held together mainly by wood and farmland. Here, the Greekshad a towering fortress surrounded by stone walls and towers, compact andcircular. The buildings were largely tall and secure, like ever-watchful stonetrees. It was packed with citizens along the bustling main street.
The Greeks visited shopping stalls and restaurants, boughtnew clothing and loudly made trades. Even after being there for a year,Constantinople had remained truly foreign to me. The noise of shopkeepershailing potential customers and the nearly blindingly bright colors of clothingin yellows, blues, and purples were enough to distract me on my way home.
It was hard not to get absorbed in the beauty of the city,but truly, I had been an outsider to Byzantium, and as part of the CatholicChurch, it hadn’t exactly been the warmest welcome for my father and I. Evennow, I remember the hostile glares and turned up noses from the purple-wearingnobles. I remember looking down at my own unassuming, tan tunic, picking at it,feeling how ragged it was, and most of all, how inferior I’d felt.
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Topic: what was the hardest part about writing this book andhow did you overcome it?
The toughest part was getting the balance of emotions, andperspectives, right. The Crusades are a difficult and tragic time in history,and With God We Burn follows the historical path of the First Crusade prettyclosely. It took time and effort to make sure that the balance between theChristian point of view and the Muslim point of view was perfect – as it issuch as delicate and understandably sensitive subject.
The book mainly follows a Christian boy; however there areseveral pivotal characters that are Muslim.
I have to say, the great people at my publisher, CinnabarMoth, were integral with helping me to get this balance correct, and Iwholeheartedly believe it will show in the book itself.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Born and raisedon Long Island, Joshua has had a love for storytelling since he was young. Hegrew up with the larger-than-life characters and silly stories in pro wrestlingand got lost in complex role-playing video games, and finally manifested hislove at age 18 when he wrote his first book.
Joshua oftenreflects on the bigger picture in life and thinks most people are good, decent,and worthy. Love, unity, and respect are his core ideals, and they are woveninto all of his writing.
He currentlylives on Long Island with a loving family, which is he truly grateful for.
You can followcurrent projects, or catch up with him on social media; he is always open tomaking new friends!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lange170
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshglange/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100014463883655
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/with-god-we-burn-josh-lange/1144013737
https://www.amazon.com/God-We-Burn-Joshua-Lange-ebook/dp/B0CJ87FKP8/ref=sr_1_1
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GIVEAWAY
Joshua Lange will be awarding a $10Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveawayBlog Tour: LIGHT OF THE GODS by Miriam Newman
Light of the Gods
by Miriam Newman
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GENRE: Fantasy historical romance
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BLURB: Inages gone by, the gods of the mountains had split the earth in two. Now that passage must form a barrier againstinvaders. Javrik, clan chieftain’s son,has known his wife for only a month when he must defend her. Arman, soldier from a far-off land, findshimself fighting for people he never knew existed. The lives of nomads, raiders, warriors andlovers are changed forever in the shadow of Grandfather Mountain.
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Excerpt One:
The chestnut,uncharacteristically, took a misstep and then another. He had been going on aloose rein, but now he raised his head and Javrik tensed instantly. The sun waslong past its zenith, but bright enough. There would be no concealment for anyrider who left the woods or the walls, so he pulled up in the shelter of somestones that were still standing and waited, short sword in hand. He carried abow, the sword and a dagger. Araks had never made armor. He had a fast horse,but that was no defense against an arrow.
He had nodefense of any meaningful kind against what he saw emerge from the woods. AnOmani cavalry officer in full battle gear rode towards him at a flat-footedwalk, and Javrik made a small sign of supplication to his gods because it waslike looking at a ghost. They had assumed not one of those men still lived, yethere was one with armor, sword and spear, riding a horse capable of knockinghis horse flat and running him over. It was what they were trained to do.
The officer‘sbay charger stopped instantly, perhaps twenty paces from him. Javrik had noteven seen the rider signal the horse. The horse wore armor, too, on its mostvulnerable spots, gleaming in the sunlight. A single mounted Omani cavalrymanwas said to be worth three of any other because you could stop them only with acrossbow or a spear, neither of which he had.
“Hola,” Javriksaid, using the universal greeting, then switching to Omani, hoping it was goodenough. “I have no quarrel with you.”
The officerremoved his helmet; he had understood. He was older than Javrik but stillyoung, with dark curly hair and a typical Omani profile—bold features, oliveskin. And clean-shaven, which meant he was from a city somewhere.
“Nor I withyou,” he said.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Fantasy poetry driven by myths and legends has beenmy passion for as long as I can remember. I was published in poetry beforecatching the romance writing bug. I bring that background to my writing alongwith a lifelong addiction to horses, an 18 year career in various areas ofpsychiatric social services and many trips to Ireland, where I nurture my muse.My published works range from contemporary fantasy romance to fantasyhistorical, futuristic, science fiction and historical romance. Currently I livein rural Pennsylvania with a “motley crew” of rescue animals. You can see mybooks at www.miriamnewman.com.
Website: http://miriamnewman.com
Website: http://thedarkcastlelords.net
Blog: http://miriamnewman.com/blog
Blog: http://thecelticroseblog.blogspot.com
Email: mrmireland@aol.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMiriamNewman
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/miriamnewman
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/miriam-newman-cf7ca8bf-caab-4b7e-a6f2-7db5490d9215
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3146550.Miriam_Newman
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Miriam-Newman/e/B005DBFZUG
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GIVEAWAY
Miriam Newman will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawnwinner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
