Roxanne Rhoads's Blog, page 347

Interview-The Crow Box by Nikki Rae

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?
My name is Nikki Rae. I’m 27 and an editor and writer who lives in New Jersey. I think I’ve always loved paranormal things. At a very young age, I fell in love with vampires, then ghosts, then ANYTHING deemed out of the ordinary.  It just seemed natural to write in the genre.
What is it about the paranormal, in particular vampires, that fascinates you so much?The outsider theme is probably the most compelling about the vampire in particular. How they look human but aren’t, how there are so many incarnations of them. In any paranormal creature, the humanity within them is what draws the reader in, and the more monstrous the more the challenge and bigger the pay off. J
What inspired you to write this book?
The Crow Box deals with a lot of metal health issues and although the main character’s are extreme, people deal with these invisible enemies on a daily basis sometimes. They are constantly questioning if the world they live in is real, if they are real. I thought that was an interesting idea to play with.
Please tell us about your latest release.

The Crow Box is about a college art student named Corbin who is trying her best to be normal. Her mother brings her an antique box that is sealed with wax, and once Corbin cleans it up, strange things start happening and she isn’t sure if it’s her mental health deteriorating or if the box has something to do with it.
Do you have a special formula for creating characters' names? Do you try to match a name with a certain meaning to attributes of the character or do you search for names popular in certain time periods or regions?
Not really. Most of the time the names are already in place. With Corbin, her name means “little crow”, which was intentional.  ;)
Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?
There is a character named Michael that I have in The Sunshine Series and Animal. He’s the most unstable character I have ever created and his head was a very strange and scary place to be when writing. However, he’s also one of my favorite characters and readers seem to enjoy him as well.
Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?
I fall in love with every main character I create. I think you have to, no matter if they’re a good or bad person or if you agree with their decisions. If you don’t at the very least believe they are real to you, no one else will.
Do you have a formula for developing characters? Like do you create a character sketch or list of attributes before you start writing or do you just let the character develop as you write?
Most of the time they just appear and develop as I write. Their personalities shine through more if I don’t try to put them into any boxes.
What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?
Ooh there are so many! Here’s a little snippet:
Corbin, it said, not quite as full as the first time. More of a gentle whisper. Little crow. Dark haired beauty.The bed shifted next to me, but I couldn't be bothered to open my eyes. “You're not real,” I said into the darkness.Something brushed past my face, just below my lip. It was neither warm nor cold, just a presence of slight pressure and then nothing.But I am real, Corbin, the voice said in a whisper. In time, I will show you how real I am.I took a deep breath. This was crazy. But I was also all alone, so even though I was scared of what hearing this voice meant, I was comforted that it was here with me.“What do you want?” I asked.Murmuring. Light voice on top of light voice, speaking over one another in different languages and whispers of words I understood, just not in this context. When it went on too long, I sighed. “Can you at least tell me who you are?”I managed to open my eyes, staring at the blank ceiling, shadows of the ever-present flies playing off of it. I wondered for a second if my eyes were really open or if they had only opened into a different dream. I blinked once, twice. The voices disappeared. I couldn’t be sure in my half-awake state, but I felt the covers shift beside me. I didn't care that this was just my mind trying to cope with my mother leaving.You aren't afraid of me, are you? But it wasn't quite a question.I rolled over, exposing my back to the unseen entity. “No,” I said. “I guess not.”My hair lifted off of my back gently, as if someone was running their hands through it lovingly, the way Mom used to when I was sick when I was little.“I'm afraid of what you mean,” I said. “I'm much too old to be playing with imaginary friends.”I felt breath on the back of my neck. It was warm and smelled of dried leaves. I melted into the scent of it, relaxing my head against the pillow. You don't think I'm imaginary, the voice said, so close to my ear that they sounded like they were right there, speaking directly to me and no one else. Not really.
Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?
A lot of times I try to make up a creature or illness and find it already exists. In this, there are many creatures and entities that embody the paranormal elements, but not just one. I thought that was interesting because it made me wonder where the idea for it came from, which I am still trying to figure out.
What is the most interesting thing you have physically done for book related research purposes?
I don’t really do physically related things for research. That’s why I write. I’m more of a describer and less of a doer. Haha.
Can you tell readers a little bit about the world building in the book/series? How does this world differ from our normal world?
The interesting thing about my stories is that most of the time, the paranormal world is part of the real world that not many people see. In future installments of The Shadow & Ink Series, the world will become more muddy and turn into something else, but mostly, Corbin is just trying to figure out what is real in the very real world.
With the book being part of a series, are there any character or story arcs, that readers jumping in somewhere other than the first book, need to be aware of? Can these books be read as stand alones?
These should definitely be read in order. There is a huge cliff hanger in the first book (sorry! Lol) and you would probably be really lost if you picked up the second book without reading what came before.
Do any of your characters have similar characteristics of yourself in them and what are they?
Yes. Corbin is like me a lot in her art and style. Her personality is nothing like me though. Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? How do you deal with it?Sometimes. It usually happens when I have too many things happening at once and I can’t concentrate on any one thing.  Mostly what I find works is first trying to write through it, even if I know I’m going to delete it later, but if that doesn’t work, I take a break and try to do something else like read or go for a walk.
Do you have any weird writing quirks or rituals?
I need a TV show I’ve watched a hundered times before and a candle. I think that’s pretty weird lol.
Do you write in different genres?
I never say never. All the books I have out now are paranormal, but I want to branch out into a ton of genres. I’m working on a contemporary and sci-fi novel as well as a poetry book!
Do you find it difficult to write in multiple genres?Not at all. I know I prefer paranormal because that’s the most fun for me, but writing in different genres is refreshing. You have to establish new rules for yourself and work within them. I do my best work when I’m challenged and I love doing it. 
When did you consider yourself a writer?
Around high school. I had always been into telling stories and had even written them down here and there, but in high school I really fell in love and started writing every day. It became part of who I was and has remained so ever since.
What are your guilty pleasures in life?
Oh gosh. Like, bad reality TV shows. And Shark Tank. For the love of god, I cannot stop watching Shark Tank.
Other than writing, what are some of your interests, hobbies or passions in life?
I love making my own tea, reading, and animals. Animals have always been a big love in my life and I would love to one day either own a bunch or open some kind of sanctuary.
What was the last amazing book you read?
“You” by Caroline Kepnes was really amazing, dark, and made my pulse kick into overdrive with every chapter. The writing is also beautiful.
Where is your favorite place to read? Do you have a cozy corner or special reading spot?
Mostly in bed. Preferably with a nice cup of tea and warm blanket.
What can readers expect next from you?

The sequel to The Crow Box and a continuation of my vampire story, Animal. The two books are fighting for my attention daily!
Where can readers find you on the web?
Everywhere! The best place for us to hang out and talk is my group on Facebook, Nikki Rae Fans! J




The Crow BoxThe Shadow and Ink SeriesBook OneNikki Rae
Genre: New Adult Dark Paranormal Romance
Date of Publication: January 15, 2016
ISBN:ASIN:
Number of pages: Around 100Word Count: 55, 323
Cover Artist: Nikki Rae
Book Description:
The small wooden box is dirty, the size of a human fist, and sealed with wax. When Corbin takes it upon herself to clean it and break the seal, a voice she has tried to ignore gathers strength. Shadows play on the walls at night, and with a family history of mental illness, Corbin fears the worst. But the voice tells her it is real. That its name is Six and it will prove it in time.
Drawn to this mysterious entity, Corbin isn't sure what to believe and the line between reality and her imagination blurs more every day.
Some doors should not be opened; can this one be closed?
Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/jitYSz0-9LU

Amazon


Excerpt:A tap on the window. Something that was too much like a tree branch to really draw any attention. Then it got louder. I shoved the pillow over my head, sinking its weight into the cool fabric and throwing the covers over my head for extra good measure. I almost forgot where I was until I felt the rough fabric of the blanket that wasn’t mine. I tried to open my eyes, but I didn’t care enough to exert the amount of energy it took. Instead, I rolled over, sinking deeper into the darkness surrounding me.I knew somehow that I had slept through all the daily activities, through group therapy and arts and crafts and TV hour. I knew it was past lights out and I found myself not caring that it would all be monitored. I could stay in this room, in this bed forever. Somewhere between sleeping and waking, between my body and muddy, thick mind, I heard the voice. I couldn't understand what it said, but it was a gentle, almost cooing sound, like one a mother would use on a child who had woken in the middle of the night from a bad dream. But they were down the hall and too far away to offer me anything.The blanket shifted and I couldn't see because my eyes were closed; the blankets and pillow still covered my head. A moment of quiet, then the mattress dipped in next to me, in front of me. My heart pounded in my head, my throat. A second later, the pillow slid from my head, but I couldn't tell if it was my own doing. My head was too heavy; my thoughts were too clogged to get one solitary explanation through.Hush now, the voice whispered. It was right next to my ear, right next to me. I'll show you.Yes. Show me. Show me how to be insane. Show me how to be just like my mother. I kept my eyes completely closed.Corbin, said the voice. As much as I hated to admit it, I liked the sound of my name in its tone. I liked how it hit me deep. It was the sound of sand being blown by the sea on a windy day. It was the feeling of fingers in your hair as you fell asleep, tangled limbs after a closely spent night. Softness and hardness of an intimate touch, one that couldn’t have possibly been delivered by anyone or anything else.“Yes?” I hadn't realized I said the word out loud until my hot breath was bouncing back at me against the covers. I was afraid my roommate would hear, but her heavy snoring reassured me.So you are with me, it whispered. Each word caressed my face, sent warm shivers through my skin and into the bone.I opened my mouth to say something else, but I couldn't think of anything; I doubted I would even be able to get the words past my teeth.Hushhhhhh, said the voice. I felt something slightly cold, yet not completely solid against my waist. It wasn't enough to make me shiver. It wasn't anything that woke me further from the drugs. My shirt slipped upward, past my belly button before it stopped.I inhaled sharply and turned over onto my back, convinced that I was half-dreaming and if I switched positions, the dream would change just as easily.A few moments of silence. A few moments of the tapping on the glass, the rustle of the wind outside as the rain pelted the roof. It lulled me back into comfort, back into darkness.My little crow, crooned the voice. Again, right in my ear, right in front of my face. It made the blackness behind my eyelids shake, sprout leaves and take root. My precious petal.I was almost unaware of the sheet moving off of me, the blankets shifting until I heard them rumple into a careless pile on the floor. My face became warm, the smell of damp dirt in my nostrils, the sound of static electricity zipping through my brain, setting off synapses to synapses.“What are you doing?” I whispered. But my voice sounded so far away, like I was standing on top of a very high tower and trying to make my words heard to people down below.I felt my hair being moved from my forehead, then a small, sweet amount of pressure applied there. Kissing you, my love.I liked the gesture. It overrode any logic, any sense of self I could bring forth from the darkness.“Why do you only kiss me at night?” I whispered.Another small peck, warm and then cool against my cheek. I am strongest at this hour. The words slithered around my skin, crawled to the back of my skull like some creature that had suddenly sprouted legs. And you are most open to me.“Open?” I asked, my head swimming with medication, my eyes glued shut, my body heavy with sleep that had yet to come.I felt the slight breath of an amused, silent laugh. Yessssss, the voice whispered. Open, my crow.
I opened my eyes, but I was only met with darkness. I knew that it was all in my head as the dim room spun around me, but I didn't care. I didn't want to think about it or what it meant. It was easier to pretend. If I was the only one who knew, I was the only one who knew the truth. I couldn't be losing my mind if I was so in control of it.


About the Author:
Nikki Rae is an independent author who lives in New Jersey. She explores human nature through fiction, concentrating on making the imaginary as real as possible. Her genres of choice are mainly dark, scary, romantic tales, but she’ll try anything once. When she is not writing, reading, or thinking, you can find her spending time with animals, drawing in a quiet corner, or studying people. Closely.
Website: http://www.nikkiraeauthor.com/
Blog: http://nikkixrae.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @NikkiRaexX
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki-Rae-394844663902407/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1608190742758480/1697014270542793/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6751095.Nikki_Rae
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Nikki-Rae/e/B00B8YR0Y6/
Instagram: @NikkiRaexx
Tumblr: http://nikkixrae.tumblr.com/

A Review of Grave Visions by Kalayna Price

Grave Visions by Kalayna Price
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a long time coming but finally....it's here. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the publisher. I was so excited I put aside the book I was reading and cracked this one open immediately.

I was not disappointed.

Alex is back and in more trouble than ever. Her newly discovered Fae heritage is draining her She needs a tie to Faerie to keep her alive but who should she trust, who can she tie herself to? The Winter Court? The Shadow Court? Everyone seems to want her for her planeweaving abilities but she can't afford to align herself with the wrong Fae.

Poor Alex, her world is exhausting - trying to navigate her ties to Faerie, solve cases, raise shades, be a part of Tamara's wedding, and keep her love life straight (as she's currently twisted into an odd love triangle).

Her love life is so messy. She's involved with Death, yet really knows nothing about him and she still has feelings for Falin but can't trust him because he is bound to the Winter Queen as her Knight- and he's currently sleeping at Alex's place because he was ordered by the queen to stay where Alex stays. Awkward situation when her current lover, Death, shows up. Yikes.

Adding to Alex's non-stop to-do list, is the police. They call her for help on a weird new case that turns out to be tied to Faerie and quickly becomes tied to Alex. She has to find out who is behind the new glamour laced street drug, Glitter...her very life depends on solving this case.

Twists, turns, and dramatic action ensue...as the clock ticks. Alex is fading fast. Can she solve the case before fading...or before the Winter Queen decides Alex is a threat that needs to be eliminated?

Totally worth the wait. I am glad the author was finally able to complete this book and I hope more are in the works.

Price's world is unique, an intriguing orginal world of Fae, magic, and witches that I can't get enough of. She blends fantasy and urban fantasy with a touch of paranormal romance seamlessly. Every book will make you want more.

View all my reviews

The Tales of the Baba Yagas Guest Blog and Giveaway with Deborah Blake

Once upon a time, there was a Russian fairy tale witch named Baba Yaga. She lived in a wooden hut that moved about the forest on giant chicken legs, and flew through the air in a huge mortar steered by a pestle. Her companions were a dragon named Chudo-Yudo and three mysterious men on variously colored steeds known as the White Rider, the Red Rider, and the Black Rider. The Baba Yaga would occasionally help a worthy seeker, if that seeker could pass her tests. But you really didn’t want to get on her bad side. She ate small children who didn’t finish all their borscht, they say. That part they got wrong. Most of the rest of it, well, they got more right than not. But that was then.
This is now.
These days the Baba Yagas move far beyond the borders of Russia and its Slavic neighbors. What’s that? Yes, I said Baba Yagas, plural. You see, it was always more of a job title than a name. If you read the old tales, they often spoke of the Baba Yaga and her “sisters,” also called Baba Yaga (in case you weren’t confused enough). Not to worry, I can give you better names than that: Barbara, Beka, and Bella.
These three are the Baba Yagas who are charged with taking care of the lands of the United States. They guard the doorways between our world and the Otherworld, where the paranormal folk and their Queen retreated many years ago. They work to maintain the balance of the natural world (although Humans are making that more and more difficult these days). And sometimes, if it is absolutely unavoidable, they too will help a worthy seeker. Barbara hates that part.
The three Baba Yagas are all powerful witches and older than they look, but in most other ways they are very different. They have a few things in common, though, besides their affection for each other and their dedication to their tasks. All live in the huts they inherited from the Babas who trained them, magical homes whose appearance has been changed to better fit in with the modern world.
Barbara, the eldest, has a cloud of wild black hair, wears a lot of black leather, and travels the country in a silver Airstream trailer. Her mortar and pestle are now a classic royal blue BMW motorcycle, and her Chudo-Yudo is disguised as a gigantic white pit bull. People would probably notice a dragon if they met one, after all.
Beka, the youngest, and newest to her role, looks like a typical blond hippy surfer chick, which she mostly is when she isn’t calming storms at sea or rescuing Mer people. Her painted school bus and improbably well-preserved Karman Ghia are well suited to the California coast she loves so much, as is her pal Chewie, who is a large black Newfoundland dog. Except when he’s a water dragon, of course.
And then there is red-haired Bella. In some ways the most traditional of them all, she prefers the forests and the deserts, where she can travel in peace in her caravan with Koshka, who to all appearances is a humongous Norwegian Forest Cat. After all, most large cats are practically dragons anyway. Just ask one, if you don’t believe me.
What about the Riders, you ask? Oh yes, they’re still around too. Their magical steeds are now a white Yamaha, a red Ducati, and a black Harley, but still altogether enchanted. As for the Riders, well, they are even a greater mystery than the Baba Yagas, and that is really saying something. But each of the Babas has a story to tell, and each of the Riders too. Stories of magic and adventure, and yes, even love. But you’ll have to read them to find out what happens, won’t you? After all, who doesn’t love a good fairy tale? Even one set in a thoroughly modern world.
So pull up a chair next to the fire and help yourself to a bowl of borscht—or a glass of wine if that suits you better—and listen as I tell you the tales of the Baba Yagas. They’re probably not true. Unless, perhaps, they are. You will have to decide for yourself.

Wickedly Powerful
Known as the wicked witch of Russian fairy tales, Baba Yaga is not one woman, but rather a title carried by a chosen few. They keep the balance of nature and guard the borders of our world, but don’t make the mistake of crossing one of them…
The only thing more fiery than Bella Young’s red hair is her temper. She knows that a Baba Yaga’s power without strict control can leave the people she cares about burned, so to protect her heart—and everyone around her—the only company she keeps is her dragon-turned-Norwegian-Forest-cat, Koshka.But when Bella is tasked with discovering who’s setting magical fires throughout Wyoming’s Black Hills, she finds herself working closely with former hotshots firefighter Sam Corbett—and falling hard for his quiet strength and charm.Sam may bear the scars of his past, but Bella can see beyond them and would do anything to help him heal. Only before she can rescue her Prince Charming, she’ll have to overcome the mysterious foe setting the forest fires—a truly wicked witch who wields as much power and even more anger than Bella...Barnes and Noble |Amazon |Penguin
Deborah Blake is the author of the Baba Yaga Series from Berkley (Wickedly Dangerous, Wickedly Wonderful, Wickedly Powerful) and has published nine books on modern witchcraft with Llewellyn Worldwide. When not writing, Deborah runs The Artisans’ Guild, a cooperative shop she founded with a friend in 1999, and also works as a jewelry maker, tarot reader, and energy healer. She lives in a 120-year-old farmhouse in rural upstate New York with five cats who supervise all her activities, both magical and mundane.

Newsletter: http://dld.bz/dWEQs
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/deborahblake
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deborah.blake
Blog: http://deborahblake.blogspot.com/
Website: http://deborahblakeauthor.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/246753.Deborah_Blake

Enter to win this prize pack via the rafflecopter below
Prize pack containsa notebook, a mug with the three book covers on it, a stuffed dragon, and  "Be Wicked" broom, plus some misc. swag.
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Cover and Book Trailer Reveal for Half Life by Paul H.B. Shin

Half LifePaul H.B. Shin
Publisher: Fiery Seas Publishing, LLC 
Genre: Thriller   
Release Date: September 6, 2016
About the Book:
The year is 1997. North Korea is suffering from a devastating famine that has shaken the foundation of the ruling class. A series of high-profile defections to the West has lead the reclusive country's leadership into the grasp of paranoia.

Nuclear scientist Han Chol-Soo is on a tenuous diplomatic mission to the United States. There he is forced to embark upon a high-stakes pursuit after his wife disappears with their newborn son. Paralyzed with fear at the repercussions of her decision, Han turns to his colleague Park Jun-Young for help -- a man that he suspects is an intelligence operative. He soon regrets his decision as Park cuts a swath of mayhem in the name of helping Han, and the chase forces Han to confront the harsh realities of his home country.


Half Life Reviews
“Half Life is a terrific novel. Right from the start you'll be drawn into many dark worlds—politics, espionage, and North Korea—and it will keep you on the edge of your seat right until the last page. Paul H.B. Shin’s authenticity and style cannot be missed.” –Dale Brown, New York Times bestselling author of Starfire (William Morrow)

“A gripping, taut espionage thriller, Half Life is enriched by the love story at its core and the refusal to give simple answers. I loved it.” –Robert Ferrigno, bestselling & award-winning author of Heart of the Assassin (Scribner)
“Paul H. B. Shin wraps an engaging tale of espionage and intrigue around a failed marriage in his new international thriller, Half Life. With sure-footed prose and vivid characterization, Shin takes readers inside the paranoid claustrophobia of North Korea’s political world, where even high-ranking diplomats live in constant fear. With North Korea's nuclear arms program as a backdrop, the eminently believable and thoughtful plot will have readers wondering if they're looking at tomorrow's news. A well-wrought debut.”
–Jim DeFelice, #1 New York Times bestselling co-author of American Sniper (William Morrow)

About the Author:
Paul H.B. Shin’s debut novel follows a career as an award-winning journalist for more than 20 years, most recently for ABC News. He previously wrote for the New York Daily News. He was born in South Korea and lived in London during his childhood. He now lives in Brooklyn, New York.
https://twitter.com/PaulHBShin 

What is Therianthropy? Guest Blog Cloaked by T.F. Walsh

Thanks for having me on your blog today. I'd like to talk about Therianthropy.
Therianthropy is the ability, or curse, that allows humans to transform into animals. There are many examples of it throughout mythology and folklore and it has become the basis of more and more popular culture. Lycanthropy relates specifically to werewolves and is the most common example, particularly in European cultures, which is why I chose to write about it. But if people were given the choice of an animal they could transform into, would wolves be the most common response.  Of the myriad of animals, birds, fish and other beasts inhabiting the planet, it would seem that wolves might not be the most popular, if given a choice that is, considering there was such a choice.
If I had to choose, it would be difficult decision. A swan maiden is another mythological form of Therianthropy and would give me a chance to fly.  Selkies are seal-type creatures when in water and human when on land, so I could swim effortlessly through the ocean. But if I had to be honest I think I would chose Ailuranthropy, the ability to turn into a cat. And not one of the great cats, but a simple house cat. Especially when I see how many people love their cats, and how well cats are treated. I would love nothing more than sleeping all day in a warm sunshine. Snuggling up to someone when it gets colder and leaping around the house as if I own it. And not to mention being able to understand just what my cat thinks of me.


CloakedThe Wulfkin Legacy SeriesPrequelT.F. Walsh
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Crimson RomanceDate of Publication: Jan 4, 2016
ISBN: 1440596646ASIN: Coming soon
Number of pages: Coming soonWord Count:  26,000
Cover Artist: Erin Alexander
Book Description:
Raised by an overly protective wulfkin pack, Daciana leaps at the chance to venture into the human world for her one-year independence ritual. But after someone steals the endangered bear cubs she’s been assigned to protect, she must locate them or lose her job and return home in disgrace. The sexy inspector on the case isn’t making this any easier. He knows nothing of her kind, and wulfkin rules forbid relationships with humans.
Newly divorced Inspector Connell Lonescu trusts no one but himself. He’s convinced relationships are a waste of time and thinks burying himself in work will ease the pain. Yet he’s attracted to the gorgeous and mysterious Daciana, even if there’s something slightly odd about her. Can Connell learn to trust the sexy but secretive woman?
Amazon     BN    iTunes    Google Play    Kobo    Goodreads
Cloaked  is the prequel to Cloaked in Fur, book 1 in The Wulfkin Legacy Series. Find out how Daciana and Connell fell in love and set in motion the paramount events that forever change their lives and those around them.

Cloaked in Secrecy (Book #2) – March 2016Cloaked in Blood (Book #3) – May 2016

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Excerpt:CHAPTER ONE
DACIANADamn bear. Leaving footprints on the outskirts of the forest, winding around the apartment blocks, and scaring locals for the past week. No wonder the cops had threatened to shoot him on sight today.Sunrise wasn’t far away; neither was my transformation from wolf into human, so I had to hurry. Romania’s morning breeze wove through my fur, and the distinct dried-clover-and-grass scent screamed bear. He was definitely here—always just before dawn.Not that I should care. Wolves and bears weren’t the best of friends. But I’d seen the way humans made killing us a sport, and I couldn’t stand to see any animal hurt.Careening around the corner of the building, I halted and silenced my breaths.Fifteen feet away was a frizzy, brown bottom sticking in the air. The bear that belonged to that butt balanced on the edge of an oversized trash can, head down inside, his scratching and grunting muffled.A few steps closer, I snarled, the sound vibrating through my chest.The bear jerked upward, a butter container sitting over his nose. He clacked his teeth and forced an expulsion of air, throwing the container off his face.I backed up. Yep, this might be a funny moment on television, but not when you were the one facing the six-foot animal standing on hind legs.He flopped back onto all fours and momentarily gazed back at his trash.I have no plans to take your garbage. A growl slipped past my throat, and I lowered myself, feigning attack posture. Come on, boy, get out of here before it’s too late. I stalked forward.He swiped at me with a front paw, huffing.I jumped back and circled him.But he lunged suddenly, slapping the concrete ground several feet from me, and stood there, his mouth hanging open. He roared and made a pulsing sound deep in his throat.Oh, he felt threatened now. Good.I ran around him in a circle, faster. His claws swatted at me, inches away, but once I was at his back, I leapt closer and nipped his hindquarters.His bawling echoed, but I hadn’t drawn blood, and it sure as hell was better than a bullet.The crunch of leaves sounded, followed by footfalls, from around the building behind me.I flinched and sniffed the air. Humans.The bear turned and ran away from the trash, from me, from the city, heading toward the forest. I chased after him to make sure he got as far away from here as possible.He bolted faster, his paws hitting the ground with each pounce.“The bear. And a fucking wolf?” a disembodied voice boomed from my left.In the empty grassland between the apartment block and the woods, two police officers with rifles watched us. They were there to hunt the bear and broke into a run in our direction.Fuck, this was bad. Really bad. I burst into the dense Transylvanian forest behind the bear, trampling foliage and dried twigs. He’d swung right and already put distance between us. He was safe, but what about me?Heading straight ahead, I sprinted across forest floor, dodging low branches. I glanced behind me. Footfalls resonated, and the two figures raced my way.Heavy breaths strangled my lungs as I bolted. The ground flew beneath me and fresh pine-scented air splashed over my face, promising escape. Except my heart was attempting to break free from my chest.A shot was fired, and I scampered faster. Ten pulse-wrenching minutes later, the police were nowhere in sight or smell range. That didn’t mean they couldn’t still be trailing after me.The first ripples of a transformation into my human form crawled through my back legs. I scrambled up the hill, claws digging into the soil for leverage with each rapid lunge. Not yet.My body shuddered, and I stumbled forward, shivering uncontrollably as thousands of tiny bite-like nips swarmed across my flesh. I whimpered, and a long exhale gushed past my lips. The change was happening.



About the Author:
TF Walsh emigrated from Romania to Australia at the age of eight and now lives in a regional city south of Sydney with her husband. Growing up hearing dark fairytales, she's always had a passion for reading and writing horror, paranormal romance, urban fantasy and young adult stories. She balances all the dark with light fluffy stuff like baking and traveling.
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Giveaway- Alien Attachments Series by Sabine Priestley

Sabine has a chat with Balastar and Kit from Liberation
I’d like to start off by saying thanks for having us over today. I always enjoy hanging out with my characters. I brought along the trailer for the book to get started. It’s only about 40s (and still too long for Instagram, ha ha).
http://sabinepriestley.com/blog/liberation-trailer/



Sabine: Okay guys, like it says in your trailer, yours was a slow burn kind of bond. What happened? What took you so long to figure out you were psi-mates?
Balastar: It wasn’t for lack of trying on my part.
Sabine: That's for sure you guys were like rabbits on Balastar’s ship when you were hiding from the Torogs.
Kit: Something about the danger of the situation gave the whole thing kind of a surreal edge. Dani and Ria and I have talked about the bond thing, we have a theory.
Balastar: You’re talking about our bond with Dani and Ria?
Kit: Why not? Their books came first.
Sabine: Let’s hear it.
Kit: We think it’s something to do with where you’re from. It took us so long because we have different psi. Look at Dani and Ian.
Sabine: Book one.
Kit nods. Ian is a blend of Sandarian and Vertan psi. Dani of course is Vertan. It’s a mix and they fought their bond for yonks.
Balastar: Longer than us.
Kit: True, but we had 3 full days together before we split up. They had one night before Ian realized he had to fight it. Their bond’s grasp was more tenuous than ours. Then look at Ria and Ty.
Sabine: Book two, Rebellion.
Kit: Are you going to mention the book every time I mention the characters?
Sabine: Um, no?
Kit: Those two are full Sandarian. They couldn’t stay apart even when she thought he was a murderer and he sort of blamed her for the death of his parents.
Balastar: That was messed up. [Glares at Sabine.]
Sabine: What? It’s not like I make this stuff up. I just write it down. Anyway, thanks for stopping by you two. Love you both *air kisses*
Thanks for having me over today, Roxanne. It’s always fun to come by and see what’s going on in your neck of the woods!



Alien AttachmentsAlien AttachmentsBook OneSabine Priestley
Genre: Science Fiction Romance
Publisher: Kensington / LyricalDate of Publication: 8/18/14
ISBN: 978-1-61650-566-4ASIN: B00KYUNEKO
Number of pages: 208Word Count:  75K
Cover Artist: Renee Rocco
Book Description:
Finding one’s psi-mate is something every Sandarian hopes for, but when Ian Cavacent accidentally starts the bonding process with the Earthling, Dani, he has to fight his desire with every ounce of his being. If the process is completed, it would be both political and financial suicide for Ian and his family.
A natural klutz, Dani somehow always manages to land on her feet and win those mixed martial arts matches she’s so fond of. At home on Cat Island her balance is thrown when bazillionaire Ian takes notice.
Unfortunately some butt-ugly Torog aliens also take notice sending her life spiraling out of control and into Ian’s arms. But Dani isn’t the type of woman to let some alien voodoo decide her future or her mate…no matter how gorgeous the man is or how much pleasure he gives her.
For centuries the Cavacents have mined Earth for a precious element, carnium, while protecting the planet from other alien species.
Thanks to the Torogs, Dani and Ian must flee to Sandaria. As Dani learns to use her newfound psi powers, the empire crumbles around them.
Will their love be strong enough to keep them alive and get them back to Earth?

iTunes     Amazon     BN    Kobo
Excerpt Alien Attachments:
“Earth Protector? You’re kidding right?”“No. Pretty much what it sounds like. Cliche as it may be, we are not alone in the universe.”Dani held Jared’s gaze. She’d heard what he said, but couldn’t process the words. They sat on her brain like little beings, patiently waiting to be let in. Knock, knock. Dani let out a nervous laugh. Maybe if I ignore them, they’ll go away. Jared didn’t blink. Or maybe not.“So you’re not an EP?”“Nah, I’m human, just like you. I’m what they call a Support Agent, or SA for short. I do what I can for Ian and the other EPs, but I’m based with Ian.”“So you’re a spy.”                    “Support agent, not secret agent,” Jared said. “Although, we are a secret.”“You’re a spy for aliens.”
“Stop it. It’s not like that.”
RebellionAlien AttachmentsBook TwoSabine Priestley
Genre: Science Fiction Romance
Publisher: Kensington / LyricalDate of Publication: 10/13/15
ISBN:  978-1-61650-579-0ASIN: B00SED1K1I
Number of pages: 169Word Count: 72K
Cover Artist: Cora Graphics
Book Description:
Ria Montori is no stranger to kicking ass. Though petite in size, she packs a punch as a former Sandarian military officer who currently serves the Cavacent clan on a strange planet called Earth. She has no interest in seeking her one psi-mate who could bring her unparalleled pleasure through a sensual, otherworldly bond. She has no time for a lover of any kind. So why is she lured in by the beguiling Curzan native who just killed a government official?
Ty Sordina hates Ria’s kind. The Sandarians murdered his parents while he watched and enslaved his people. Driven by revenge, he vows that nothing and no one will stand in his way. Especially not a feisty redhead who challenges his every instinct and calls to his psi like no other.
But war is coming. And the two must succumb to temptation for only the power of their completed bond can defeat and destroy the enemy. But only if they surrender…
Book Trailer: http://sabinepriestley.com/blog/new-trailer-for-rebellion/
iTunes     Amazon    BN

Excerpt 2 Rebellion
It was she and Dani’s turn to hold their base. Ian and Armond flushed the surrounding area. Ian was ahead in kills, but so far, she and Dani were ahead on team saves. So as usual, the women were keeping them alive, and the guys were shooting things.Ria wiped the sweat from her eyes. “We need to pick a desert next time. This humidity sucks.”“You get used to it,” Dani said.The bushes to their left rustled, and both women swung their lasers in the ready.Ian stepped out, and Ria sparked with envy when he grabbed Dani and planted a kiss on her before he disappeared back into the foliage.“Seriously?” Ria said. “You can’t go an hour without locking lips?”Ian’s laughter rippled through the trees.Dani beamed.Ria rolled her eyes.Another rustle, and a four-legged creature with razor sharp teeth launched itself at Ria’s chest. “Morits!” Ria called out as she sliced the critter in half.The sound of Ian and Armond battling away let her know they’d found the nasty critters as well. Six more made it past the men. Dani made easy work of the two that had targeted her. Ria nearly made it unscathed but when four hit her at once from all sides, one managed to latch onto her lower arm. Those jaws had some serious force, and her hand popped off, dropping the creature to the ground with it.“Aw, come on. Not fair. There were four of them.” Ria lifted up her wrist and studied the bloody stump. “Halt sim.”Ian and Armond approached from opposite ends of the clearing, equally covered in sweat.Dani came to her side and inspected her handless arm. “It would almost be easier if they were bigger. It’s hard to keep track of them when they’re so small.”“Perhaps your relative height to the ground also contributed to your demise,” Armond said.Ria glared at him. “Are you seriously going there?” “I’m simply stating that you were closer to them than Dani.”“Whatever,” Ria said. “Little shits. Reset sim,” she called out.
Morit bodies and Ria’s hand evaporated. The illusion of a bloody stump did, as well, and her own hand reappeared as they all caught their breath. The jungle around them melted into the floor, and they soon stood in the metal gray of the sim room.
LiberationAlien AttachmentsBook ThreeSabine Priestley
Genre: Science Fiction Romance
Publisher: KAC PublishingDate of Publication: 12/1/15
ISBN: 978-1-62517-957-9ASIN: B0157A0DP4
Number of pages: 206Word Count: 72K
Cover Artist: Nathalie Gray of Kanaxa Designs  
Book Description:
Following the signal of foreign psi to an old abandoned building on Florin 5, Balastar Alder literally stumbles across the pugnacious raven-haired beauty, Kit Athorika.
He’s not the only one who’s looking for the mysterious portal making devices in her possession. When Torogs attack, she ports them to safety. Without the help of a single Portal Master.
Balastar offers to repay the favor by getting her off-planet and back to her own ship. Their escape is complicated when the Torog’s pursue. Forced to go silent and lay-low in an asteroid field, they have little to do. Fortunately, the chemistry between them ignites and they find endless ways to occupy their time.
Balastar convinces her to come and meet his boss, Lord Cavacent. Recently relocated to Earth, the Sandarian clan included a handful of rogue Portal Masters. Kit has her own reasons for hating and fearing the Portal Masters, but she needs all the help she can get to save her planet. She reluctantly agrees to seek out Lord Cavacent’s help, and his connections to the Galactic Trade Organization and its powerful military.
The Portal Masters’ Guild on Sandaria has controlled intergalactic portals throughout the galaxy for centuries, and jealously guard their secrets. One of those secrets has kept Kit’s home world under quarantine for nearly thirty years.  But portals across the galaxy are failing and the guild is getting desperate.
Finding themselves bonded wasn’t expected, but having a psi-mate had its advantages. Can they free an entire planet and take down a guild as old as the  Masters without losing their lives?

Book Trailer:  http://sabinepriestley.com/blog/liberation-trailer/
iTunes    Amazon    BN  
Excerpt 2  Liberation:
"Frack, look." Kit said, pointing to the screen. Torog ships blasted up the lines of each vector, including theirs. They were coming too fast. Before Balastar could get the required thrust needed, the Torogs scanned his ship as they passed. They slowed immediately and turned around.Balastar watched his controls. "Three, two, one. Hold on." As soon as his engine hit the green line, he pulled out of position in the queue and shot straight up. The Gravity Modulator was engaged but the ship had to make a series of course corrections in order to avoid satellites and other low orbit objects. The seats automatically formed a cocoon around their bodies and heads, preventing whiplash. He gripped the arms of his chair and waited. Two and a half minutes later, they were clear and headed to the closest interstellar portal."We've got three following. Make that four," Kit said. "What do you think?Balastar pulled up the specs for the Torogs' ships. "We'll outgun them before we'll outrun 'em.""Can you take on four?""Do we have a choice?""Maybe." Kit flipped through nav charts with manic speed. She stopped and backed up. "How big is it?"Her psi pulsed, and he grinned. "Pretty big."She looked him up and down. "I meant the ship. How long is it?""Two hundred and twelve feet.""That is long." Another pulse of pleasure. If they kept this up they were going to go down fucking. Not a bad way to go, but he'd rather stick around long enough for a repeat performance.Kit swiveled her chair to face him and leaned in closer. Balastar met her halfway, their faces inches apart. The brown of her eyes held specks of gold. She brushed her lips against his ear. His trousers were now far too restrictive. "And exactly how wide is it, Balastar?"He turned his head and took a bite at the hollow of her shoulder sweeping his tongue in circles on her skin. He wanted to taste her. Everywhere. He sucked hard, leaving a mark. She groaned. "How wide?""Fifty-five feet." His adrenaline was cranking. "Yes!" With quick rapid breaths, she swung back to the console. "We'll just make it."As much as he wanted to continue their banter, staying alive was probably the better choice. "You have a plan?""Depends." She gave him a serious look. "How good are you?"Another pulse left him desperate to lose the pants or change the subject. "I can take her anywhere.""How long can she run silent?""A week, maybe more."Kit hesitated a moment before sending the data to his com. "We'll make the portal. Take us to these coordinates, and I'll guide you from there."


About the Author:
A lifelong lover of books, Sabine grew up on Science Fiction, Fantasy and Romance novels. As a child she wanted to be an astronaut and travel the stars looking for aliens. As an adult she’s seriously disappointed we’ve yet to establish so much as a moon base (although she gives a hearty nod to the ISS) and is pretty sure Humans aren’t ready to meet ET.
An Electrical Engineer and Cultural Anthropologist by training, she's a geek with heart. She’s lived in more states than she cares to admit and loves to travel. When not in far off lands, you can frequently find her walking the local beaches and plotting her next adventure.   
Sabine lives in Florida with her husband, kids, cats and an increasingly large mess of characters in her head.
Website: http://www.sabinepriestley.com
Twitter: @SabinePriestley
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sabine-Priestley-144605875630586/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sabine-Priestley/e/B00MSZIFQG/




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Now Available: Secrets of Successful Virtual Book Tours by Roxanne Rhoads

Secrets of Successful Virtual Book ToursQuick Tips for Authors GuideRoxanne Rhoads
Book Description:
Are you considering a virtual book tour?
Not sure where to start or exactly what an online tour will entail?
Roxanne Rhoads, book publicist and owner of Bewitching Book Tours, shares her virtual tour expertise in this Quick Tips for Authors Guide.
Secrets of Successful Virtual Book Tours will guide you in utilizing the best marketing tool available- a virtual book tour, which can create online exposure for your book, jumpstart your book sales, help build your author brand, and expand your network.
In this guide you’ll learn:·       what you should do before a tour·       the components of  a great author website·       the best social media outlets for authors to utilize·       tips for building your author brand·       how to write great guest blogs·       what to expect from an online book tour·       the secrets of successful book tours·       how to schedule your own virtual book tour
And you’ll receive in-depth details about what to do during a virtual book tour to guarantee success.
Amazon    BN    Kobo    Scribd    iBooks
Smashwords    Inktera     Createspace
About the Author:
Roxanne Rhoads has been working in the world of online book promotion since 2005. She has worked as a freelance writer, author, book reviewer, book blogger, editor, self-publisher and book publicist. She has a unique advantage of knowing how multiple sides of book publishing and promotion operate.
Roxanne understands how book bloggers work and what they want to make their jobs easier while also understanding that authors need promotion to be streamlined, easy, and less time consuming.
Roxanne shares some of her knowledge in her latest release, Secrets of Successful Virtual Book Tours.
Author Website  http://www.roxannerhoads.com

Bewitching Book Tours www.bewitchingbooktours.com

Bewitching Blog http://www.bewitchingbooktours.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/RoxanneRhoads      

http://www.facebook.com/BewitchingBooktours     

Twitter @RoxanneRhoads

Top 10 Must Haves for a Page Turning Read- Near The Wild by Maureen Willett

My list of favorite novels is a revolving door, but they all have certain elements. This list is not necessarily in order of preference, because that can change, too.

1) A sexy bad boy character with a secret heart of gold. I prefer him to be a bit flawed, too. So, maybe a scar down his cheek, or recovering alcoholic, something to make him more real.

2) A strong female character who sets out to tame the bad boy, only to find herself changed for the better because of him.  She shouldn’t be too pretty, though. Again, I like my characters real. 

3) An element of magic.

4) Something new, unique, or different. A story I haven’t read a million times before. 

5) A bit of mystery.  Whether it’s the plot, a character, I don’t care, but I don’t want everything to be too obvious or predictable. Surprise me!

6) Humor. I love characters who keep their sense of humor, even in the darkest, most stressful situations. 

7) Even if it’s paranormal fiction or sci-fy, make it believable. I want to close that book thinking whatever those characters went through could happen to me. 

8) Not just steamy sex, but also romance. It’s far more compelling and memorable.

9) A great setting. Take me somewhere I’ve never been before!

10) A satisfying ending. I hate feeling like I wasted my time because the ending is meaningless or trite. There really must be a happy ending. 

I endeavor to write novels that include all of the above elements. I believe I’ve succeeded with my latest novel, Near The Wild. 

Near The WildMaureen Willett
Genre: paranormal romance/historical fantasy
Publisher: independent
Date of Publication: June 27, 2015
ISBN: 9781524209926ASIN: B010JLKZZY
Number of pages: 229Word Count: 82,500
Book Description:
Cowboys and leprechauns both occupy Maeve MacKeighry's world in 1870, and she must decide which will win her heart. Leprechauns are feared, even in Ireland, but that doesn't prevent Maeve from striking up a friendship with one who lives near her village. But once Maeve becomes a young woman, the local villagers start to gossip, especially since the MacKeighrys are known to practice magic in their home. It's just for entertainment, but the town folk don't see it that way. Rather than be outcasts, the MacKeighrys set off to America to homestead in Kansas, vowing to leave their magical ways and friends behind. Little do they know that Maeve's friend follows and protects them on their journey.
The MacKeighrys encounter many adventures along the way to Kansas, only to find a simple sod house on their new farm at the end of the journey. The untamed land offers a fresh start for the family, as well as two very interesting men who both compete for Maeve’s attention. Pretty young women in a wild western town are a rarity. But can she forget her magical friend, and turn her attention to two of the most interesting men she has ever met? Perhaps cowboys and outlaws have a certain charm that a leprechaun doesn't, after all.
Most of the novel takes place in Kansas in 1870 and is based on the author’s family history. The idea of the MacKeighry’s sod house came from the home of Willett’s great grandfather. She was lucky enough to visit it as a teenager before the house was destroyed. One of the characters, Nikki Fuerst, is based on an ancestor, a prince from Austria who was disinherited for marrying a commoner and sent off to America. Stories Willett has been told her entire life about her family’s history and traditions, such as levitating tables, are included in Near The Wild.
Amazon Excerpt:
I didn’t notice much about his face at first.  It was his hair that caught my eye.  It hung just below his jawline and was beautifully cut, as was fitting for a man of his wealth.  The thick, raven-colored ringlets framed his angular face in an almost angelic fashion.  He gracefully moved his tall frame toward me on the narrow, wooden walk in front of the store.Normally, this stretch of sidewalk in Colton was quite busy in mid-day.  I would nod and greet just about everyone, feeling obliged to make it apparent that my mother raised her children to have manners, but it just happened to be an odd day, so he and I were the only ones passing by each other.  Because the sidewalk was so narrow, he stopped, made a slight bow with his head, and let me pass, keeping his eyes downward in a polite manner.  The silver grey of his tailored suit and well-turned silk cravat glistened in the sunlight.  He carried a top hat in his gloved hands.  His fingers looked long and slender through the kid leather.Grateful for his polite gesture and thinking his eyes were still averted, I glanced at his face to get a better look at this polished, dapper young man, only to be surprised by the flawless white complexion.  His high cheekbones, straight nose, and perfect, creamy skin must be the envy of every woman in Colton, especially those who had grown up plowing fields in the sunlight and now had faces resembling tough leather.Believing I’d seen an angel come down from heaven, or at least one of those men who would never marry and spend his life seeking the company of other men, I looked into his eyes.  It was then I realized my mistake.  There, in the blue-green depths, was a lustful intent that unnerved me to my core.  I almost stepped back in surprise.  His dark, arched brows went up in mock politeness.But it was his indecently shaped mouth that would be a girl’s undoing.  His upper lip was an arched bow and naturally ruby colored, reminding me of the blood-red painted lips of that fancy woman on the train.  And his lower lip looked swollen with untethered desire.  Oh, to have that mouth touching my body!  The thought entered my head before I could shake it loose and made my knees weak.  Those lips were a sensuous beast all their own.With a beautiful smile, he made his desire to see me without my petticoat quite clear.  I gulped and almost lost my footing as I walked away, quickening my step to hasten my retreat from the depths of his alluring blue-green eyes and harlot’s mouth.  My heart pounded and my face heated as I ran toward the safety of my brothers, away from the unconventionally handsome Mr. Fuerst.
It was a common fact in Colton that he was the only heir of a royal fortune.  It seemed his father had been a prince in Germany but was banished to America for marrying a commoner.  Mr. Fuerst was here to build a mansion across from the new train station, because his father was one of the investors in the transcontinental railroad that would one day connect Kansas to California.  Apparently, he built the largest mansion in the area of Colton that was now burgeoning with homes for the emerging upper class, Bell Street.  Colton was the end of the railroad line on the western side—at least for now—and the young Mr. Fuerst would be our resident patriarch.  The next time I’d run into him would be under quite different circumstances.  

About the Author:
Maureen Willett is a writer of fiction that pushes the boundaries of established genres.  Her stories mostly come from her own family legends that have been passed down through generations, but then she tops them off with a twist of faery dust and angel wings. 
But at the core of each story are great characters in very human conflicts that anyone will find compelling.  Each novel is crafted as an experience that will take readers beyond their day-to-day lives, incorporating themes of time travel, reincarnation, and magic.   
She lives in Hawaii and finds its ethereal beauty a source of inspiration for her writing.  She is a former journalist, public relations professional, and media marketing specialist.  Writing fiction has been her passion since grade school.
website:  www.mwillettnovels.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maureenwillettbooks
Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/mwillett
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7235871.Maureen_Willett

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Interview- Dragon Knight’s Shield by Mary Morgan

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

I live in Northern California with my own knight in shining armor. I’ve always been drawn to mythology and folklore. Legends of Ireland and Scotland have always captured my attention. I grew up with an overactive imagination, so it was only natural that I would write what I love. 

What inspired you to write this book?

On my first trip to Scotland in 2000. I was sitting on a boulder in the Highlands surrounded by the mists and magic of the land. The Dragon Knights were born within my mind that evening. 

Please tell us about your latest release.

Dragon Knight’s Shield is the fourth book in the Order of the Dragon Knights series. Angus MacKay is the oldest brother. Sparks will fly when he encounters Deirdre Flanagan on a battlefield. Together, they journey back to Urquhart, along with a band of men known as the Fianna. 

Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?

Angus MacKay has always been a challenge. His story was planned for the first, but he waved his sword in front of me and told me off in words I can’t say in this interview. He completely took me by surprise, and I let him. However, in the end, Angus was my true knight—the strongest. 


Do you have a formula for developing characters? Like do you create a character sketch or list of attributes before you start writing or do you just let the character develop as you write?

I always start with the basics: name, physical looks, and then the personality. Usually, it’s revealed immediately when I start writing. With Angus, it took awhile. I was trying to control him too much. 

What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

When the fifth Dragon Knight is revealed to Angus and Deirdre. 

Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?

I’m always finding fascinating bits of historical information. I blend these into my own paranormal world. With Dragon Knight’s Shield, the Fianna played an important role. They were an ancient band of warriors used by the Chieftains of Ireland. They underwent vigorous training and were called upon when needed. 

In my story, the Fianna approached Angus.  

What is the most interesting thing you have physically done for book related research purposes?

Visited Scotland and walked in the Highlands. It was a phenomenal experience and changed my life. 

With the book being part of a series, are there any character or story arcs, that readers jumping in somewhere other than the first book, need to be aware of? Can these books be read as stand alones?

My books can be read as stand-alones, only if you don’t mind spoilers. I make sure to give enough of the back-story in each of my books. 

Do you have any weird writing quirks or rituals?

My writing desk has a collection of crystals and stones I’ve collected over the years. I love having them near me. Before I begin writing, I pause to take in some deep cleansing breaths. It helps to relax me. 

Do you write in different genres? 

No, not yet. ;)

When did you consider yourself a writer?

When I finished my first story—Dragon Knight’s Sword. It was an amazing sense of accomplishment.

Other than writing, what are some of your interests, hobbies or passions in life?

I love to garden and cook. Both help me unwind after a busy day of writing. Gardening is also a place where I can create ideas for my books. Nature has a way of weaving itself into my stories. 


Where is your favorite place to read? Do you have a cozy corner or special reading spot?

Curled up on the couch with pillows. I’m gone within the pages! 

What can readers expect next from you?

I’m working on the fifth and final Dragon Knight’s story, which I hope to have out late summer. 

Dragon Knight’s ShieldOrder of the Dragon KnightsBook FourMary Morgan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Date of Publication: January 8, 2016
ISBN: 978-1-5092-0542-4
Number of pages: 407Word Count: 99,950
Cover Artist: Debbie Taylor
Book Description:
Angus MacKay, leader of the Dragon Knights, failed his brothers and his clan upon the death of his sister. Now he must fight the darkness of despair tempting his soul. Back on Scottish soil, he comes face to face with Deirdre who can wield a sword as mightily as his warriors, and takes her captive. Yet, with each passing day, the fire dragon inside him roars to claim the one woman fate has destined for him.
Famed mystery writer, Deirdre Flanagan, is unprepared for the next chapter in her life. On a vacation to Scotland, she steps through the mists and enters into a skirmish alongside a Highlander. However, the fight has only begun, and now she must battle Angus as well as evil in order to claim the love of this Dragon Knight.
Will their love be powerful enough to shield them from danger, or burn them to ashes?
Amazon    BN    Kobo    The Wild Rose Press
Excerpt Two: “God’s teeth, woman,” hissed Angus taking a glance around and noticing that everyone else had survived. He stormed to where she was standing and grabbed her arm. “What were ye thinking taking up a sword and fighting? Ye could have been killed.”
“You could have been killed. You required my help.”
She started to mumble, and Angus found it difficult to follow the flow of words. Narrowing his eyes, he understood her to be English. However, this did not explain her outlandish clothing. A woman should never be allowed to wear trews, he thought, as he took in her form.
“What? Never seen a woman before?” Her voice wavered. “Do I have to fight with you, too?”
He looked down into the most beautiful hazel eyes he had ever seen. “Nae.”
“No, you’ve never seen a woman, or no, you don’t want to fight? Because I’m a bit concerned by your grip on my arm and the way you’re leering at me.”
Angus swallowed. “My pardons.” Releasing her, he took a step back. “Are ye hurt?”
She shook her head. “I’ll have bruises from the fight to brag about come evening, but I’m fine.”
Seeing Egan riding toward Gunn, Angus nodded to him. “Best we leave and go into the trees. There may be more of the enemy.”
“Umm, excuse me? Don’t you think you owe me an explanation? And shouldn’t we call the police?” Waving her hand about, she added, “Why are you fighting with swords? And how did you manipulate the fire?”
He glared at her. “For the love of Danu, cease your chatter and come with me. I do not understand your words, and we waste time being out in the open.” Bending to retrieve his dirk, he was stunned when he glanced back to see the fool lass walking in the opposite direction.
“By the hounds,” he hissed. In two strides, he stood blocking her path. “Did ye not hear me?”
Her eyes blazed with fury when she spoke. “I heard you just fine. I’m going to find a policeman and report this incident. Now, if you’ll move aside, I can go get us some help.”
“Ye are not going anywhere, but to those trees. I dinnae ken what all ye are babbling, but ’tis madness we linger any longer in the clearing.” His patience had snapped and grabbing her arm, he was unprepared for the blow she landed against his jaw. “God’s blood, woman!”
“You grab me again and next time I won’t use my fist.” Her tone, this time, brittle.
Angus took a step closer, daring her to challenge him again. “And what would ye use?”
With one swift move, she flashed the dirk up between them, mere inches from his face. “This—slicing through your artery.”
He leaned to the side, feeling the coolness of the blade against his skin. “Like the one I hold at your side?” He saw her jaw clench, but not before he noticed the slight tremor. “’Tis good to ken one’s place, nae?”

“You’re a rude barbarian,” she hissed.
About the Author:
Bestselling paranormal romance author, Mary Morgan resides in Elk Grove, California, with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.
Mary’s passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. She spent far too much time daydreaming and was told quite often to remove her head from the clouds. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling. Writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.
Visit Mary’s website at http://www.marymorganauthor.com where you’ll find links to all of her books, blog, and pictures of her travels.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mary.morgan.564
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/m_morganauthor
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/marymorgan50/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8271002.Mary_Morgan

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Review of The Witches of Echo Park and The Last Dream Keeper by Amber Benson

The Witches of Echo Park by Amber Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A very solid start to a new urban fantasy series.

Lyse gets thrown into a world she had no idea existed but for the most part she takes things pretty well and goes with the flow.

Until bad things start happening and old truths are revealed.

Full of twists, turns, flashbacks and multiple viewpoints the book can feel a it surreal and downright confusing sometimes. A few things felt "off" for me, but the overall reading experience was still good.

If a book is really bad it becomes a DNF, this wasn't close to that, just a few "what?" moments, a couple I even had to re-read just to make sure I understood it correctly.

All in it has solid worldbuilding and well defined characters- that will make you want to read book two.

  The Last Dream Keeper by Amber Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hearts will be broken, lives will be lost, atrocities will be done.

That's a quick description of The Last Dream Keeper, just be aware that the heart broken may be yours especially if you become invested in characters like I do.

Book One of The Witches of Echo Park was dark, but book two knocks it out of the well lit park straight into dark urban fantasy filled with wretched nightmarish scenarios and death. Book one set us up with characters and back story then book two drops us into the world right where book one left off- and it just keeps getting darker.

The Flood isn't coming, it's here and it is killing witches old school style- murder, burning at the stake, and that's just the tip of what they are doing. Torture, experiments...the things are awful...but yet we still never get a clear picture of what The Flood hopes to accomplish.

What really is the point of the experiments and horrible things they do to the witches, revenge, pleasure? Obviously they are bat shit crazy but how did they infiltrate the Witches Council so fully and completely? How did they fool powerful witches and fill their ranks?

That leads me to something that really bothered me...when you are part of a secret group, a secret powerful group, you usually don't trust as easily, take things at face value, or go against your people but the characters here are so easy to fool, easy to trick, and easy to mind control it makes me want to slap every single one of them. I think they all play the fool and that just doesn't work well for me.

I zipped through this book fast because I was invested in these characters and I needed to know what was going to happen. But the end left me rather confused and unsatisfied. I have more questions than answers.

I hope we get to see book three and some solid answers.