Naughty Netherworld Press's Blog: Naughty Netherworld Press on Goodreads, page 32
May 5, 2025
Outcast Teaser Tuesday #rabtbooktours
Motorcycle Club Romance, Suspense
Date Published: May 9, 2025
Anya’s his captive, but she’s always been mine. I’ll burn their empire to the ground to bring her home.
Anya -- I never forgot Jackson -- not when the foster system chewed us up and spit us out, and not when I was dragged into the nightmare world of Sebastian Six. Jackson was the one bright spot in my past, the only person who ever tried to save me. Now, trapped as Six’s captive, I’ve lost hope… until I see him again. Jackson isn’t just a memory anymore; he’s a badass biker called Outcast. He fights the brutal champion in Six’s underground ring, just to win a night with me. He’s risking everything to get me out. This time, I’m not letting him go.
Outcast -- She was everything to me once. The only thing that ever mattered. I tried to save her when we were young and failed. But when her photo turned up on a soldier tied to a fake gun deal, I knew I’d been given another chance. I tracked her to Louisville, to the syndicate, to the monster who owns her. If she had been safe and happy, I would’ve walked away. But she wasn’t. So I fought their champion in a cage match just to get close. Now I’m running with her again -- only this time, I’m ready to kill anyone who gets in my way for her. No one is taking Anya from me. Not now. Not ever again.
Trigger Warning: Outcast (Hounds of Hell MC 7) contains scenes of human trafficking, violence, physical abuse, rape, and vigilante justice that may be triggers for some readers. There’s also a strong alpha hero willing to risk everything to save his woman.
Content advisory for the excerpt: Profanity, threatening situations.
EXCERPT
Outcast
Player scrolled through his phone in the passenger seat next to him, killing time while they waited in the Jeep for the Red Scourge MC’s soldiers to show. In the back, Crash sat silent, his usual restless energy contained -- for now. Malachai’s illegally modified rifles were tucked in the back, behind the rear seats, ready for the deal. Snow and the twins were positioned in the woods nearby, out of sight but primed to strike if things went sideways. Everyone was in place and ready.
Well, the Hounds were ready. The other MC was new to this part of Virginia, and the fact that they’d reached out about guns right away had sent up an immediate red flag for Outcast. Now they were running late, testing his patience as he ran through all the ways this deal could turn bloody if the buyers decided to play dirty. Yeah, the club needed the money, but with so many unknowns surrounding this crew, Razor had made sure they were prepared for everything. Probably.
The late February sky loomed heavy with dark clouds as the wind howled through the trees, whipping past them in the Jeep. Outcast killed the engine, powering down his driver’s side window just an inch or two. He was vigilant, keeping an eye on all the vehicle’s mirrors. He listened, trying to tune out the sounds of the wind and the occasional vehicle driving by on the highway behind them. For the meeting place, they’d selected a remote area between Mercy and Oak Grove. Outcast had picked it out -- a stretch with no houses or businesses -- in case things went south.
Player shoved his phone back into the pocket of his leather jacket, his attention now on Outcast. “You sure you’re feeling up to this, brother?”
Outcast nodded, shutting down any chance of a drawn-out conversation about his well-being. It was bad enough dealing with Deva every day, her constant hovering after his recovery from the beating Victor Grayson’s men had handed him. And where Deva went, Razor followed -- especially now that they were together. His club president was a hell of a lot harder to shake than his sister.
“I’m fine,” Outcast said, and for the most part, it was true. Mornings were rough, and by night, the lingering pain crept back in -- especially after a long day. But each day, it dulled a little more. Still, the slow recovery gnawed at him. Pushing forty or not, he should’ve been back to full strength by now, and the frustration of it sat heavy on his shoulders.
“They’re here.” Snow’s rough whisper came over the walkie talkie Outcast had positioned in the cupholder of the center console.
Sure enough, a huge black Hummer turned off Route 221 onto the narrow dirt road where they waited. Player pressed the button on the transceiver and said, “Copy that.”
Outcast watched the other vehicle move closer. Player grinned at him from the passenger seat, itching for a fight Outcast hoped they could avoid. “It’s show time,” he said. Crash’s gaze met Outcast’s in the rearview mirror, and he nodded.
“Focus,” Outcast told them, watching the Hummer rumble to a stop on the other side of the road. He counted four heads but there was plenty of room in that behemoth of a vehicle for more to be hiding. A bad vibe twisted in his gut. Just now he was really fucking grateful for Razor’s command that they take backup.
It was ten minutes until five, and Outcast knew the sun was sinking toward the horizon, though the thick storm clouds kept it hidden. He slowly opened the door and stepped out of the Jeep, the wind biting against his skin. Crash climbed out at the same time, moving with his usual measured calm. Player, on the other hand, damn near rocked the whole vehicle as he jumped out of the passenger side, his boots hitting the ground hard. Moving too fast for Outcast’s liking, Player strode around to stand just behind him, his massive frame coiled tight, ready for a fight before one had even started.
The smell of rain and the acrid tang of cigarette smoke from the four men who exited the Hummer hung in the cold evening air. Outcast stood just in front of his friends; his weight shifted casually and every muscle he had tensed. This was far from Outcast’s first deal, but something about this particular group set his nerves on edge.
Four men stood across from them, their faces partially obscured by the fading light and shifting shadows of the storm. Their leather cuts were crisp, their jeans too clean, and not one of them carried the rough, road-worn edge Outcast expected from outlaw bikers. Something about them felt off -- like they were playing a role rather than living the life. And considering none of the Hounds had ever heard of Red Scourge MC before now, that didn’t sit right with him. Whoever the fuck they were, he didn’t like the vibes they were giving off.
“Appreciate you boys coming all this way,” the taller of the four drawled, lighting up a cigarette. Outcast recognized Hawk’s voice from speaking with him on the phone. “Been hearing good things about the Hounds’ hardware. Guess you need something to do out here in the middle of Bumfuck, Virginia.”
Outcast nodded, holding Hawk’s gaze as the other man sized him up. “Guess so.”
Hawk took another step closer, studying Outcast. A challenge. After a minute, the man nodded. “Well, they were right about you. Outcast, right? You got some cold, motherfuckin’ eyes.”
Outcast never took on personal comments, just waited, staring the man down. Hawk, they were told, was a VP in his club. He had none of Snow or Razor’s authoritative presence and his insecurities were as obvious as a Halloween mask. Hawk squared his shoulders, but the slight twitch in his fingers and the way he shifted his weight from foot to foot told a different story. The man wasn’t as fearless as he wanted everyone to believe.
Player smirked at Outcast’s side, his posture radiating confidence. Towering over most, his broad frame made him an imposing presence -- only Beast outweighed him in the club. His voice was smooth, almost lazy, but the edge beneath it was unmistakable. “Money’s what matters,” Player said, flashing a grin that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “If you’ve got that, we’ve got your hardware.”
Hawk nodded to the younger man standing to his left who pulled a thick envelope from his jacket and handed it to him. Holding it up for the Hounds to see, he said, “Here’s our end of the deal. Now, we’d like to see what we’re paying for.”
Without taking his eyes off the Red Scourge soldiers, Outcast said, “Crash.”
It was the cue for Crash to climb into the back of the Jeep and haul out one of the two heavy plastic totes, each packed with rifles. He lowered it to the ground, unlocking the padlock that secured the lid to the body of the bin. Crash pulled out a sleek, fully-automatic rifle. Its dark wood grip and black metal barrel looked ominous in the dim light. Malachai, the newest patched member of the Hounds, was goddamned good at what he did, illegally modifying weapons himself to make them more lethal. His skill with high-powered firearms was one of the reasons the prospect had earned his cut.
Crash moved with deliberate ease, stepping toward Hawk and extending an unloaded rifle. At the same time, Hawk handed over the thick, bulging envelope -- supposedly filled with cash. The exchange happened smoothly. Too smoothly. Outcast kept his eyes locked on the Red Scourge leader.
Hawk gripped the rifle, turning it over in his hands like he knew what he was looking for. Crash, on the other hand, tore open the envelope and thumbed through the stack of bills inside. Outcast caught the barely perceptible glance his brother-in-arms shot him.
I fucking knew it.
About the Author
Jamie Targaet is the author of the Hounds of Hell MC. She's anxious to introduce you to this club of gorgeous, dominant men and the lucky women who surrender to them. The ride is going to get wild at times, not going to lie. But there's thrilling action, scorching hot sex scenes, and all the feels.
Jamie writes erotic romance for Changeling Press, a little fanfiction on the side, and she's an aspiring horror writer in another life. She enjoys time with her family (including the fur babies). She likes good horror movies and shows, emo metal and classic rock, and time spent in other worlds writing and reading. She loves hearing from readers and is looking forward to hearing from you.
Publisher on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @changelingpress
May 4, 2025
Too Much the Lion Teaser #rabtbooktours
US Historical Fiction/Civil War
Date Published: 05-13-2025
Publisher: Bariso Press
The soldiers did the fighting; the generals, the Infighting
In the waning months of the American Civil War, a delusional Confederate commander makes a desperate attempt to change the course of the South’s dwindling hopes by invading middle Tennessee. The tragic result of Lt. Gen. John Bell Hood’s misplaced hubris devastates his Army of Tennessee and alters the lives of the citizens of Franklin, Tennessee.
In a historical novel reminiscent of The Killer Angels, Too Much the Lion follows a handful of Confederate generals, infantrymen and local residents through the five days leading up to the horrific Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. The lives of soldiers ranging from Major General Patrick Cleburne to Brigadier General Hiram Granbury and from Sergeant Major Sumner Cunningham to Corporal Sam Watkins will be forever changed by Hood’s decisions and mistakes.
Franklin civilians like apprehensive and loving mother Mary Alice McPhail and teen Hardin Figuers, desperate to serve the Confederacy but too young to enlist, are ensnared in the events that will bring death and devastation to their very doorsteps. Devout Confederate Chaplain Charles T. Quintard must reconcile his religious beliefs with his support of slavery. Slaves like the elder Wiley Howard and the inquisitive young Henry B. Free are trapped on the fault line between what has been and what could be.
Too Much the Lion offers an unvarnished account of the dying days of the Confederacy in a powerful and moving narrative of honor and betrayal, bravery and cowardice, death and survival. Told with poignancy and honesty by an accomplished novelist, Too Much the Lion achieves for the Battle of Franklin what The Killer Angels did for the Battle of Gettysburg, providing a classic fictional account of one of the Civil War’s pivotal encounters.
Foreword
Too Much the Lion is the story of the Battle of Franklin and the five days leading up to the disastrous conflict as lived by select generals, infantrymen, and civilians in the waning weeks of the Confederacy. In a war filled with tragic encounters, this was one of the most heartrending, yet least remembered battles of the Civil War, largely because it occurred in the Western Theater, far removed from the aura of Robert E. Lee and the Army of Northern Virginia.
The Confederate Army of Tennessee produced no Robert E. Lee, but instead fought under a succession of mediocre commanders whose battlefield triumphs were limited to a single decisive but bloody victory at Chickamauga. The army’s commanders had little else to show for the sacrifice of Rebel men and boys. Though the overall leadership lacked the tactical flair of a Lee or a Stonewall Jackson, the Army of Tennessee possessed some superb generals such as cavalryman Nathan Bedford Forrest and division commander Patrick Ronayne Cleburne, who both appear in this account, though the focus is on the lesser-known Cleburne and his division.
With more than 8,500 combined casualties, the Battle of Franklin does not make the top twenty list of Civil War battles with the most losses. Even so, Union and Confederate forces endured five of the most ferocious hours of combat during the War Between the States. Besides the hubris of Army of Tennessee commander John Bell Hood, the events of the preceding night at Spring Hill contributed to the next day’s ill-fated attack—dubbed “the Pickett’s Charge of the West”—at Franklin.
In one of the greatest blunders of the Civil War, the Union army slipped past the Army of Tennessee during the night at Spring Hill, Tennessee, and escaped the trap Lieutenant General Hood had set but failed to execute. Charges and countercharges about who was at fault echoed through the years, and historians remain conflicted about who forfeited one of the South’s last opportunities for a victory over Union forces. The interpretations of the events at Spring Hill in Too Much the Lion are entirely those of the author after considerable research and head-scratching.
In addition to the many generals mentioned in this historical novel, two Confederate infantrymen who left accounts for posterity provide perspective from the viewpoint of the foot soldier. While novels about war rightfully focus on soldiers, battle takes its toll on civilians as well, so two Franklin families—the Carters and the Figuers—provide perceptions beyond those of the troops. Two slaves serving Confederate officers as manservants—one elderly and one in his teens—also enter the narrative.
Except for two characters, all the names listed are those taken from historical accounts. The name of a Franklin doctor was fictionalized, and the last name of the slave named “Henry” was added since the historical account only listed his first name. Otherwise, the names are actual, including the lists of casualties and the causes of their deaths. The interpretation of each character is that of the author, based on his research.
Too Much the Lion is told entirely from the Confederate viewpoint, both soldier and civilian. It is important to remember that by late 1864, both Southern combatants and noncombatants had endured three years of death and deprivation. Both citizens and warriors alike were tired of war, its hardships, and the uncertainty it created for their futures.
For those unfamiliar with the organization of a Confederate army, the Army of Tennessee operated under Lieutenant General John Bell Hood in overall command of three infantry corps and a cavalry corps under the direction of Major General Nathan Bedford Forrest. This account focuses on the corps under the command of Major General Benjamin Franklin Cheatham of Tennessee. His three division commanders included Major General Patrick Ronayne Cleburne of Arkansas and Major General John C. Brown of Tennessee, who are pivotal in this account. Major General William B. Bate of Tennessee also served as a division commander under Cheatham, but he played a lesser role in the events as depicted in Too Much the Lion.
Three brigades under the commands of brigadier generals Hiram B. Granbury of Texas, Daniel C. Govan of Arkansas, and Mark P. Lowery of Mississippi reported to Cleburne, their division commander. Between seven and ten regiments designated by number and state served under these three brigadier generals.
Two of the four brigades in Brown’s division appear in this account. Commanders of those brigades were brigadier generals States Rights Gist of South Carolina and Otho F. Strahl of Ohio. While other generals and combatants show up in this account, their roles are nominal in this telling of the story of the Battle of Franklin.
In compiling this narrative, the author has attempted to stay within the historical framework of the events leading up to and culminating in the Battle of Franklin and its aftermath. Occasionally, time elements may have been compressed or slightly altered for the sake of the overlapping narratives from the different viewpoints.
If nothing else, perhaps Too Much the Lion will drive readers to the historical accounts of the Battle of Franklin to make their own assessments and draw their own conclusions of the tragic encounter in the waning months of the Civil War. If Too Much the Lion accomplishes anything, perhaps it will give Patrick Ronayne Cleburne his due as one of the noble generals of the Civil War, much like The Killer Angels elevated Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain into the public consciousness.
Too Much the Lion is a novel of war, and war is the failure of man to live up to the “better angels of our nature” as President Abraham Lincoln first used the term in his 1861 inaugural address before the start of the conflict that killed more Americans than any other in our nation’s history.
By its very nature, however, any novel of war is also an anti-war novel, for it shows the dire consequences on individuals of political and military deceit and hubris. Perhaps Too Much the Lion offers lessons for today if we are honest and humble enough to accept them.
About the Author
Preston Lewis is the award-winning author of more than 50 western, historical, juvenile, and nonfiction works. In 2021 he was inducted into the Texas Institute of Letters for his literary achievements.
Western Writers of America (WWA) has honored Lewis with two Spur Awards, one for best article and the second for best western novel. He has received ten Will Rogers Medallion Awards (six gold, two silver and two bronze) for written western humor, short stories, short nonfiction, and traditional Western novel.
Lewis is a past president of WWA and the West Texas Historical Association, which named him a fellow in 2016. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and a master’s degree from Ohio State University, both in journalism. Additionally, he has a second master’s degree in history from Angelo State University. He lives in San Angelo, Texas, with wife Harriet Kocher Lewis.
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May 1, 2025
Writers of the Future Book Blitz #rabtbooktours
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Date Published: 04-22-2025
Publisher: Galaxy Press
This anthology blends science fiction, fantasy, and literary brilliance, showcasing thrilling adventures, fresh perspectives, and thought-provoking themes. Paired with stunning illustrations, each story immerses you in boundless imagination. Step outside the norm and explore worlds of wonder—order your copy today!
Authors
L. Ron Hubbard; Jody Lynn Nye; Tim Powers; Robert J. Sawyer; Sean Williams; Tom Wood; Seth Atwater Jr.; Randyn C. J. Bartholomew; Barlow Crassmont; Andrew Jackson; Ian Keith; Robert F. Lowell; Patrick MacPhee; Lauren McGuire; T.R. Naus; Joel C. Scoberg; Sandra Skalski; Jefferson Snow
Illustrators: Craig Elliott; John Barlow; Cam Collins; Haileigh Enriquez; CL Fors; Dwayne Harris; David Hoffrichter; Gigi Hooper; HeatherAnne Lee; Marianna Mester; Daniel Montifar; Breanda Petsch; Jordan Smajstrla; Tremani Sutcliffe
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a Rafflecopter giveaway
April 30, 2025
No Apparent Bruises Book Blitz #rabtbooktours
Poetry Collection
Date Published: 02-14-2025
Publisher: Rotting Peach Press
A poetry collection exploring the messy and confusing feelings of missing someone you're better off without.
About the Author
Robyn Hope McMahan is a Chicago author. She holds a BA and MFA in Creative Writing and this is her debut poetry collection.
Contact Link
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Little Curiosities Series Blitz #rabtbooktours
Children’s Science Picture Book Series
Embark on an enlightening journey with Jeffrey C. McGregor's Little Curiosities series, where he delves into a myriad of captivating topics to satisfy your inquisitive mind. With keen insight and a flair for explaining complex subjects in an accessible way, McGregor takes readers on an educational adventure that spans across ten volumes.
From unraveling the mysteries of microorganisms that exist beyond our sight to exploring the intriguing realm of renewable energy sources, McGregor's writing is both engaging and informative. His dedication to making complex subjects understandable is evident throughout the series. Whether you're curious about the inner workings of our planet, environmental challenges, or the hidden world of tiny creatures, Little Curiosities offers a collection of books that enlighten and inspire readers of all ages. Delve into these pages and satisfy your curiosity for knowledge, guided by the expertise and passion of Jeffrey C. McGregor.
Books include:
Little Curiosities(Part 1): Nature's Glow
Little Curiosities: Nature's Glow is a delightful and educational children's book that unlocks the mysteries of bioluminescence, taking young readers on a fascinating journey through the captivating world of creatures that glow. From fireflies lighting up forest nights to glowing mushrooms and deep-sea wonders, this book unravels the science and beauty behind these luminous displays. Children will be enchanted by the stories of fireflies, glowworms, and the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand, and they'll gain insight into why these creatures shine to attract partners and ward off predators.
Little Curiosities(Part 2): Travelling Seeds
Little Curiosities: Travelling Seeds is a captivating and educational children's book that unveils the remarkable world of seed dispersal in plants. As young readers explore the pages of this book, they'll be transported into the clever and often ingenious methods plants employ to ensure their seeds find new places to grow. From wind-borne dandelion seeds to fruits obeying gravity, plants have developed various strategies to overcome their rooted existence and allow their offspring to flourish far from home.
Little Curiosities(Part 3): The Solar System
Little Curiosities: The Solar System is an awe-inspiring journey through the vast expanse of our celestial neighborhood. In this enchanting children's book, young readers will embark on an adventure to discover the wonders of the solar system, where the sun takes center stage as a brilliant star. They'll uncover the intriguing secrets of our cosmic family, from the sun to the eight fascinating planets and beyond.
Little Curiosities(Part 4): Photosynthesis
Little Curiosities: Photosynthesis is an illuminating journey into the world of photosynthesis, a vital process that keeps our planet vibrant and full of life. In this engaging children's book, young readers will unravel the fascinating science behind how plants make their own energy using the power of light, carbon dioxide, and water. Through clear explanations and vibrant illustrations, the book introduces the concept of photosynthesis, from the role of sunlight to the essential role of chlorophyll in plants' green leaves.
Little Curiosities(Part 5): Biomes
Little Curiosities: Biomes is a captivating exploration of the diverse ecosystems that shape our planet's landscape. Through this engaging children's book, young readers embark on an educational adventure, discovering the five main types of biomes that define different regions of the world: Forests, Deserts, Grasslands, Tundra, and Aquatic Biomes. With clear explanations and vibrant illustrations, the book brings these unique environments to life, allowing children to understand the fascinating characteristics and the variety of life that thrives in each biome.
Little Curiosities(Part 6): Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles
Little Curiosities: Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles takes young readers on a fascinating journey through the intricate biogeochemical cycles that govern our planet's natural systems. In this educational and engaging children's book, kids will explore the remarkable processes of how carbon and nitrogen, two essential elements, circulate through our environment. With clear explanations and vivid illustrations, the book offers an accessible introduction to these critical cycles, making complex scientific concepts understandable for young minds.
Little Curiosities(Part 7): Global Warming
Little Curiosities: Global Warming is an essential addition to any young reader's bookshelf, offering a thought-provoking exploration of one of the most critical issues facing our planet today. This enlightening book introduces children to the concept of global warming, making complex environmental concerns accessible and engaging. With a clear and kid-friendly approach, it explains the science behind global warming, its causes, and its far-reaching impacts on our planet, including melting ice caps, displaced wildlife, and extreme weather events.
Little Curiosities(Part 8): Renewable Energy
Little Curiosities: Renewable Energy is an enlightening and engaging exploration of the future of sustainable energy. This informative book introduces young readers to the concept of renewable energy sources, highlighting the importance of transitioning away from non-renewable fossil fuels. With a clear and approachable narrative, it explains the five main sources of renewable energy: wind, solar, hydro, biomass, and geothermal, making complex energy concepts understandable for children.
Little Curiosities(Part 9): Natural Disasters
Little Curiosities: Natural Disasters is an informative and engaging journey into the wild and unpredictable side of nature. In this book, young readers will explore the fascinating world of natural disasters, gaining a deeper understanding of these powerful and often devastating events. The book categorizes natural disasters into geological, hydrological, and meteorological disasters, providing a comprehensive overview of the different types, from earthquakes and volcanic eruptions to tsunamis, floods, hurricanes, and more.
Little Curiosities(Part 10): Microorganisms
Little Curiosities: Microorganisms is a captivating exploration into the unseen and often mysterious world of microorganisms. In this educational book, young readers will embark on an exciting journey through the microscope to discover these tiny life forms that are all around us, even though they're invisible to the naked eye. The book introduces the main types of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and algae, each with its unique characteristics and roles in the natural world.
About the Author
Jeffrey C. McGregor, a trilingual professional fluent in English, French, and Igbo, brings a diverse background and a wealth of life experiences to his writing. With degrees in Economics and Engineering Science, Jeffrey's educational journey has equipped him with a unique perspective on the world.
As a passionate author, Jeffrey's work reflects his curiosity about the world and its intricacies. His "Little Curiosities" series delves into various educational topics, making complex subjects accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. By breaking down intricate ideas into digestible pieces, Jeffrey's books serve as a valuable resource for learners looking to explore the wonders of science, nature, and more.
Gatos Preorder Blitz #rabtbooktours
The following promo contains material suitable only for readers 18+.
(Cat O’Nines)
LGBTQ+, Dark Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Date Published: May 2, 2025
Catkind -- they're rough, they're tough and they don't take no for an answer. But who'd want to say no? Not Gabriella, a barmaid in a tiny roadhouse named Gatos near the Mexican border. Nor her sister Marnie. With his sisters carried off by the Catkind, Tony's left to run Gatos, but he won't be alone -- a couple of misfit "alley cats" have joined forces with Tony.
Lucia's a party girl with two hot, hunky Catkind on her trail. Orion, a white Tiger, and Jomei, a Bengal, are royalty among the Catkind. They're about to learn Lucia's much more than a pretty face. When the four Gatos siblings return with their Catkind mates for a final showdown against their nemesis, Anuetta thinks she's got these tigers by their tails, but she doesn't count on the mighty strength of the Gatos family. The line's been drawn in the ashes, and the claws are out!
This collection contains the previously released novellas in the Cat O'Nines collection: Cat's Claws, Cat's Eye, Cat's Cradle, Cat's Meow, and Cat's Paw.
EXCERPT
Excerpt from Cat's Claws
"So there I am, standing in the middle of the street, screaming at him en Espanol. I'm calling him things our abuela would turn over in her grave to hear me say. And then she'd wash my mouth out with soap."
"Lucia, when are you going to learn?" Gabriella unlocked the door to Gatos' cold storage unit. "You stay away from men like him. They're trouble."
Lucia, her sister, had the fire of a Roman candle and a temper to match. She jammed her hands on her hips in indignation. "Like you have room to talk," she shot back.
"I do. Do you see me getting tangled up with any troublemakers like him?" She yanked open the door, and cold air escaped with a whoosh. "Uh-uh. Oh, that's good." Gabriella closed her eyes and swayed in bliss. It was a gorgeous day outside in the shabby outskirts of San Miguel, the sky pure blue and the horizon clear for miles. Which meant it was hot enough to suit the devil himself, especially back in the warehouse. She let herself enjoy the cool air coming from the cold storage unit for a moment, then got back to business. She nudged the handcart. "Come on, you take one crate and I'll take the other."
"We shouldn't roll out a keg?"
"If you think you can manhandle a keg in heat like this, dolly or no dolly, you're welcome to try. Grab a case for now. Tony can get the rest later." Gabriella sized up the hefty crate stamped with the Moctezuma Brewery logo. Nothing tasted as good or as rich as their cervesa. Moctezuma was why locals bothered traveling to her tiny, out-of-the-way bar. If the brew master hadn't been a friend of her brother Tony, no way she'd have gotten her mitts on any of their goods. "Come on, Lucia, put your back into it."
Lucia pouted briefly before bending and lifting the crate. Tendons stood out in her neck from the effort as she wrestled a heavy crate onto the dolly. "We need some strong young stud for this."
"And there you go again, thinking about men," Gabriella chided. "I'm not saying I wouldn't like to have a strong young thing around, especially if he's hot, eh? I'm saying we can get by fine without one. You seem to think that's a mortal sin, which is why I'm listening to you pitch a fit in the street." She tempered the sting of her words with the fondness of her tone.
Gabriella shut the door to the cold storage unit and clicked the padlock back in place before taking the handle of the dolly. Oof. She had to admit, the crates were terribly heavy. Together they headed back to the main room of Gatos, the tiny tumbledown bar that had been their sole legacy from their mother.
Not exactly a rich and abundant inheritance. Ah, well, Mama had tried.
Lucia was still stuck back on Gabriella's opinions. "You're telling me if a man like Roger came on to you, you'd say no? He looked so pretty." She swung around to walk backwards. "Those cornflower blue eyes and his soft golden hair. Like a prince out of a fairytale." Her pleading turned wicked. "And good in bed? He was a devil when it came to loving me."
"And how many other women at the same time?" Gabriella bumped open the swinging kitchen door. "Would I say no to a man like Roger? Hell, no, I wouldn't. But..."
Lucia rolled her eyes.
"But," Gabriella went on, not letting Lucia's scorn stop her, "I'd say yes long enough to enjoy his body. If he's as good as you say, I'd have fun with him for a few days then send him packing. No harm, no foul, and no broken heart that needs someone to sweep up the pieces."
Lucia scoffed. "You wouldn't know how to let your hair down if someone gave you a hands-on demonstration."
Gabriella's pride was stung. "Says you!"
"You're right, says I. You want to make a bet on this? Friday night's tip jar says you don't have the guts to take the next handsome guy who walks into Gatos for a test run."
Ay, Lucia had her there. Gabriella could never back down from a challenge. "I'm listening. What are the terms?"
Lucia stretched her muscles out before unlocking the cooler. "So we have a deal?"
"Not yet." Gabriella pulled the dolly close enough to the cooler to unload it. "Let me hear the details before I say yes or no."
"Like you would," Lucia smirked. "All right, here's the deal. When we open tonight, you and I man the bar. When the first hot guy walks in, one I decide is enough of a handful for even you, I point him out and that's when the game begins. You come on to him, you do whatever you have to do, and if he's safe you get him into bed."
"I'm not a slut," Gabriella objected, all the while hoisting crates and holding them for Lucia to unpack and stow in the cooler. "And how am I supposed to know if he's 'safe'?" She dusted off her hands after the last bottle was stashed away. "You have to give me more than that to go on. I'm supposed to proposition a customer? That'll give me a great reputation."
Lucia shrugged smugly. "So you're saying no? You're backing down already?"
About the Author
Lia Connor lives in the South, but her job takes her almost everywhere but. Her laptop is her best friend. Lia loves stories about BBW’s, hot, hot, hot threesomes and wily shifters who get into (and out of) all kinds of trouble...
Publisher on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @changelingpress
April 29, 2025
Taken By the Maine Coon Teaser #rabtbooktours
Paranormal Women’s Fiction, Urban Fantasy
Date Published: May 2, 2025
A big cat and a woman without magic could just be the right combination.
Meela Durning swears she doesn’t belong in Eerie. She’s not magical. Never has been, but she’s the child of paranormals. When she’s forced to return to Eerie to sort out the problems from her past, she finds a big, fluffy cat. The animal lover in her has to make sure the feline gets home. He could be missing. Someone has to want him, right?
Aslan Maine has known from the moment he met Meela that she was destined to be his. He’s seen her in his dreams. When she picks him up to return him to his rightful home, he can’t hide his secret any longer. He’s no ordinary cat!
She can’t believe her eyes when the fluffball she rescued shifts into the sexiest man she’s ever seen. When he offers her forever, she’s got to decide if she deserves to be alone or to have a future with the handsome shifter.
If she can survive her past, she can have him. Right?
The following excerpt contains material suitable only for readers 18+.
EXCERPT
“Christ, I’m tired.” Meela Durning stretched and cracked her back. She shook her head, then closed her laptop. She hadn’t spoken to anyone in particular. There wasn’t anyone there to hear her. Just as well. When she’d had someone there to listen, he hadn’t listened. Hadn’t wanted to be there, either.
She’d grown used to being alone.
Tonight, she didn’t want to be by herself. It wasn’t like she could poof a man into existence. She’d wanted to try that for ages, but with no magical abilities, a spell was out of the question. She supposed she could summon one, but that only worked in her dreams and she swore it had nothing to do with magic. Just her overly active imagination.
She shrugged, then stretched her legs before standing. The man of her dreams might only be in said dreams, but that didn’t matter. He couldn’t let her down that way. Didn’t have faults. He wanted to be there. Wanted to please her. Wanted to be with her.
Unlike her ex -- the rotten troll.
She sighed and pushed in her chair. She didn’t even have a fish. She’d wanted a cat, but the building manager didn’t permit animals that had fur. Ridiculous rules.
She checked that the apartment door was locked, then picked up her phone before switching off the lights. She padded into the bedroom. Once she tossed the phone onto the bed, she made her way into the bathroom. She stripped out of her shirt, and bra, then her jeans and panties, returning to the bedroom long enough to don her sleep shirt. She brushed her teeth, but her thoughts turned to the man of her dreams.
She paused, mid-brushing. Man of her dreams. That sounded so silly. The only time he’d ever appeared physically, she’d been asleep.
A vision of him formed in her mind. Tall, muscled, but not huge… thick dark-blond hair with just a bit of shag to it. Enough to remind her of a superhero, with his hair blowing in the breeze. Twinkling green eyes, a wicked smile that hinted at mischief, but he’d been a gentleman. A dusting of hair from his navel to below the belt.
She’d never seen his cock, but she’d felt it. Heat washed over her. She swore she’d felt his hands on her body, the way he’d touched her and kissed every inch of her. He took care of her. Treated her like a treasure. Like she had worth.
She knew damn well she had value. It’d taken her years to figure that out, but now that she knew, she wasn’t about to let anyone tell her otherwise. She refused to be a doormat again.
Meela finished in the bathroom and switched off the light before crawling between the sheets. Something in her bed vibrated. For a moment, she thought she’d left a toy from the night before. When a rectangle lit up beneath the blankets, she remembered -- her phone. She must’ve lost it under the blankets when she climbed into bed. She retrieved the irksome device and checked the notifications.
An email. Now what? She swiped to retrieve the message. Overdrawn.
“You have to be kidding me,” she muttered. She swiped to her banking app. Sure enough, the money she’d expected to be deposited there… wasn’t. Her ex-husband hadn’t bothered to pay alimony. Again.
She scrubbed one hand across her forehead, then checked her texts. The asshole hadn’t messaged her. Hadn’t bothered to let her know he’d be a bigger asshole by not paying. She did the math in her head. This was the sixth month in a row he hadn’t bothered to deposit the money. The fucker.
She switched back to her banking app and shifted money from her savings to the checking to cover her bills. Once satisfied everything would be paid out of her wages from the software company, she brought up the chat box to her lawyer.
Eerie, Ohio, wasn’t exactly her favorite place to go. She didn’t belong there. She had paranormal blood, but no magic. Couldn’t conjure, summon, wake the dead… wasn’t a shifter, vampire, necromancer, faerie… Nothing about her was extraordinary. She’d simply been the child of a conjurer and a celebrity psychic. All she had was her bloodline.
But if she wanted to meet with her lawyer, she’d have to go back to the place of her birth. She’d have to head back to Eerie. Would have to talk to Norm Slone, divorce lawyer gnome. His name had a distinctive ring to it. No one forgot him. Thankfully, he could be a junkyard dog in the courtroom, too.
She opened the chat box and sent him a message.
Need to meet with you. Tiernan isn’t paying alimony. Sixth month in a row. Tired of being shafted. Help?
She hit SEND, then darkened the phone and tossed it onto the side table. If Norm Slone had time for her, he’d let her know in the morning. Besides, she didn’t want to give her ex any extra space in her mind. He owned too much as it was. Some days, he lived there rent free. Those were the days she second-guessed divorcing him. She’d loved the troll once, hadn’t she? Thought they could make a future together, right? A woman with no magic and a troll could make things work, in theory. The more she considered her past, the faster she remembered the reason she’d left Tiernan. He’d only married her under the assumption she’d inherit money from her parents.
Wrong.
After the wedding, when he found out she was penniless, he’d walked out. He claimed he wasn’t interested in her any longer. He had to work late. He’d made friends with other people. Their lives were going in different directions. Other days, he simply didn’t speak to her.
He’d packed his belongings up in the middle of the night and walked out.
Her head ached. She’d lost a dozen years of her life to him. Years she could’ve been happy. Could’ve been single but making the best of her situation. Instead, she’d tried her damnedest to keep the marriage together. Tried to make herself loveable to him again.
What a waste. He wasn’t going to love her then or now… or ever. She had to stop living in the past and thinking about what wasn’t going to happen in order to focus on the future -- whatever future she had.
She switched off the light and snuggled in her blankets. She might not be living with anyone, but then again, she didn’t have to share the bed. Didn’t have to argue with anyone. Didn’t have to explain herself. But the loneliness overwhelmed her at times.
She closed her eyes and allowed herself to forget the day, forget her situation for a little while. Forget her Ex. Time to dream. She loved her dreams. Her mysterious stranger showed up when she closed her eyes.
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 various e-tailer sites.
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.
Publisher on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @changelingpress
Captive Mate Book Blitz #rabtbooktours
The following post contains material suitable only for readers 18+.
Alpha Authority, Book 1
Erotic Romance, Shifter Romance, Sci Fi Romance
Date Published: April 2, 2025
Lauren’s reward for challenging the pirate commander is a bright red bottom and humiliating arousal. Now the huge alpha shifter intends to claim her as his mate and share her with his beta.
It will take three days to reach their planet, and she must submit to their every desire. If she still wants to leave when they arrive the alpha has agreed to let her go. But with each shattering orgasm and dark pleasure they share, Lauren finds herself craving more of her captors’ touch.
Trigger warnings: Captive Mate includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If you are offended by such material, please choose a different book.
About the Author
Ivy writes sci-fi and paranormal erotica with strong romantic themes. She lives in beautiful Boulder, Colorado and enjoys hearing from readers. Contact her through her website.
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April 28, 2025
A Voice In the Mind Release Blitz #rabtbooktours
The Mind Sleuth Series
Psychological Thriller
Date Published: April 29, 2025
Randy Hutton had fallen on hard times. He had lost his management job in customer service, “a victim of technology” as his manager had put it during his exit interview. Randy, however, described it as being ousted by little more than a glorified answering machine.
His wife, Isabella Perez-Hutton, on the other hand, was the up-and-coming star at Breakthrough Systems, leading a project that would help artificially intelligent computer systems work with their human counterparts. All the smart machines needed, she reasoned, was a better understanding of the strengths—creativity, intuition—and limitations of their human coworkers.
The irony of the couple’s situation—she building better, faster, smarter technology—and him displaced by a simple form of it wasn’t lost on either of them. That irony, however, wasn’t the reason for the violence that surrounded Isabella at work—a suicide, a demolished lab, a murdered programmer. Rather, the justification for those acts came from a voice deep within Randy’s head, a voice that tormented him endlessly, making sleep impossible and retaliation against those who would destroy him his only sanctuary.
And although Isabella’s new friend, Nicole Veles, came to suspect Randy, would it make any difference? Because by the time she came to this position, husband and wife were deep in the Colorado wilderness and Randy had killing on his mind.
A Voice in the Mind is part of The Mind Sleuth Series
Find out more about all of the books in the series at
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0753HDYWF
About the Author
If you’re interested in what I’m like in something more detailed than what will fit in this space, I’d say, buy any of my books. That overly analytic guy (read geek) is me. OK, I’ve never saved the day like the heroes in my books, but we think alike. I’m interested in technology and psychology (my formal background) and enjoy writing about where they meet, now and in the future. In addition to pounding the keyboard, I like to tinker with home automation and I’m an avid hiker. When I’m not on the trails, you’ll find me at home with my wife and our dog in Aurora, CO.
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Daemones Ex Machina Reveal #rabtbooktours
Cyberpunk/Urban Fantasy Fiction
Release Date: July 23rd, 2025
Publisher: Acorn Publishing
If you make a deal with the Devil, don’t forget to read the fine print.
Three operatives find themselves on the run after a corporate sabotage job goes awry. Now, their predatory employer, a heavyweight weapons-tech firm, wants its elite A-team dead at all costs. Jon is a smooth-talking charmer. Friedrich is a hacker prodigy. And Guion is the ice-cold tactician who keeps them all in line.
Backs against the wall, the men strike separate infernal pacts to stay alive. They vanish into the urban badlands of New York’s Five Hives, vowing to lie low and figure out why they’ve become targets. Meanwhile, Jon suspects there’s an insidious evil possessing his friends, and he wonders if they all got more than they bargained for.
Amid an escalating war between local gangs and the firm’s private shock troops, the fugitives uncover a conspiracy that threatens to destroy everyone they know and love. But can they stop the destruction before their inner demons seize control?
About the Author
At the age of four, Russell Anders started telling stories, often interrupting his mother during bedtime reading to ask, “Then what happened?” She always answered, “You tell me,” and his imagination conjured fantastical tales of dragons and dinosaurs.
He gravitated toward a career as a technical writer and writing coach for software companies. He also briefly served as a columnist for Dragon Magazine. One of his favorite hobbies includes tabletop role playing, especially as the game master. And yes, he's as cruel to the characters in his games as he is to the characters in his books; his players love him for it.
Russel lives with the constant canine companionship of whip-smart but goofy Sigurd, an English Mastiff (the best breed ever).
Daemones ex Machina is his debut novel.
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