Nancy Gideon's Blog, page 60
June 7, 2013
Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do?
Oh, baby! Nothing does it for me like a Bad Boy! Give me the thug over a pretty face any day. Keep your Jude Laws and Ryan Goslings. I’ll take the intense and brutish Clive Owens, Jeremy Renners, Vin Diesels, and Jason Stathams!
There’s something about a tough guy being humbled by the powerful love of one woman that I can’t resist. My favorites are Kresley Cole’s ubber hot MacGrieves and J.D. Robb’s delicious Roarke. These are the kind of rough-edged, dangerous heroes I like to read and write about.
Cale Terriot, in my new dark paranormal release, PRINCE OF SHADOWS , is my ultimate bad boy. Born into a warrior clan of shape-shifters where one has to fight to survive as a prince in the House of Terriot, Cale is willing to do whatever it takes to attain his goal. It’s not the crown he’s after—it’s his childhood love whose family has been branded as traitors to their clan.
"Told in Gideon's unique manner, serving up tortured and spine tingling alpha male, PRINCE OF SHADOWS transcends the paranormal with a gripping love story. Cale and Kendra's mating will be a dance to remember. Another amazing addition to the Moonlight series. 5 Stars!" - Readaholics Anonymous
To help you grab onto a sexy, naughty boy hero like Cale, I’m giving away a $10 Amazon gift card as part of the Bad Boys of Romance Hop! Details are listed below. Make sure you follow the Hop to get your fill of hotties (if there’s such a thing!)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
To keep your motor running, here’s a look at PRINCE OF SHADOWS . . .
Amazon or Barnes & Noble"He-ll-oo sexy shifter romance - why haven't I met you before?!? Pure unadulterated romance with a sizzling Romeo and Juliet plotline. I mightily enjoyed this book. You don't usually see the hot alpha stud as the more romantic one in a paranormal romance pair. What a smorgasbord of shifter hotness. This story is a winner." - The Urban Book Thief
And here’s a listen to what makes a bad boy like my strutty, tattooed prince rock and roll …
Speaking of music to make the heart beat faster, I’m over at Savvy Authors talking about creating playlists, so plug in your headset and follow me. Next week I’ll be breaking it down on how I picked Cale’s soundtrack, and because women deserve equal billing, I’ll have one up for Kendra, too.
Happy reading and happy listening!
Bad Boys of Romance Giveaway Hop Grand Prize Rafflecopter
a Rafflecopter giveawayFollow and Hop Along!
June 1, 2013
Sneak Peek Sunday
I had SO much fun at my first Sneak Peek last Sunday that I’m back for MORE – MORE excerpts, MORE new and new-to-me authors, MORE book friends, and MORE great reading opportunities. I hope you enjoy this new tease from PRINCE OF SHADOWS, the latest release in my “By Moonlight” dark paranormal shape-shifter series. And then promise me you’ll hop along the Sneak Peek links to devour other tasty samples. No calories, only delicious temptation!
Sneak Peek from PRINCE OF SHADOWS:
“Open your eyes, princess.”
Her lashes fluttered, and the harsh beauty of his features filled her vision like an erotic dream.
“I wanted you to know who was kissing you this time.”
She went flat-footed. With a quick wrenching twist, she escaped his grasp and fled the room.
When Cale emerged from the bathroom draped in a towel, Kendra skirted the big bed, keeping a wary distance. Her wet clothes lay on the tiles by the soaking tub. She’d found among all those filmy confections in the closet the one thing that didn’t scream “Do me, hot stuff.” Conservative black leggings and an oversize sweatshirt didn’t make him want her any less. But tonight, he looked no further than keeping her in the same room with him. As he reached into the closet, Cale heard her gasp as the towel dropped, and he smiled at the sound of her panicked scramble from the bedroom. In time, she’d realize she couldn’t outrun him, outwait him, or outsmart him.
She was going to be his queen.
PRINCE OF SHADOWS by Nancy Gideon
A Pocket Star e-Exclusive
Amazon or Barnes & NobleOthers Controlled Her Fate
A gentle female held hostage in a deadly play for power, Kendra Terriot’s only means of survival for herself and her family is to play to a careful courtship game. The one she chooses from her clan’s dangerous heirs will inherit the coveted crown, keeping her their prisoner forever . . . unless she can retain her virtue until rescue arrives.
The Past Destroyed His Dreams
Favored son of their brutal Shifter leader, the only calm in Cale Terriot’s violent world is a childhood love for his delicate distant cousin whom he’s pledged to make his queen. With Kendra at his side, he knows he can become the kind of ruler his clan needs, but first he must learn how to become the kind of mate she desires.
A Choice Would Determine Their Future
In a treacherous race for control, where weakness means death, Cale must prove he’s not the beast his beauty fears and still protect her, especially once her unrequited love returns to free her. The only way to win her respect could mean surrendering his throne. The only way to win her heart could mean letting her go . . . even if she no longer wants to be saved.
“An enthralling story with intrigue, betrayal, love, power, sacrifice, and loyalty that sheds new light on shape shifters. The world is truly magnificent! Be prepared to get sucked in!” – Faerietale Books
“A fantastic paranormal romance. The world building was utterly flawless set in a cutthroat royal arena where secrets and betrayal are rampant. Add in the prince most skilled in navigating the games, a woman who is unprepared to face all the danger, and sprinkle a heap of romance and we have this spectacular book. Loved it!” – Imagine a World
May 28, 2013
Prince of Shadows Blitz
Bewitching Book Tours is helping me celebrate Release Day for PRINCE OF SHADOWS with this fabulous Book Blitz! Meet Cale and Kendra, get the Down Low on the “By Moonlight” series, enjoy tantalizing excerpts, read reviews, and find out surprising things about me and my writing career in unique interviews. Follow along the links below as they go live to join in the fun.Guest blog at Urban Fantasy InvestigationsInterview with Words of Wisdom from The Scarf PrincessCharacter Interview and review at Total Eclipse ReviewsInterview and review with Imagine a WorldSpotlight and review at Penny For Them... Interview and review with Wolf Majick ReviewsReview at Books Books and More Books Spotlight and review at Faerie Tale BooksSpotlight and review from Hide The Matches Spotlight and review with Celestial ReviewsReview from Pick Your Poison Book reviews Interview with Pembroke SinclairSpotlights With . . .
Hywela Lyn Deb Sanders3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! Musings of Mistress of the Dark Path Shut Up & Read Literal Hotties Book ReviewsRomancing the BookProvocative Pages Cover Reveals Escape Into a BookBook LiaisonFrankie Blooding's BookshelfA BIG thank you to Roxanne Rhoads and all the wonderful sites who participated in this special book launch!
Amazon or Barnes & Noble
May 27, 2013
Happy Holiday - Release Day, and Birthday to me!!
I’m taking time out from my family party (Hey, we know how to rock a grill!) to send up release day fireworks for
PRINCE OF SHADOWS
, the 8th book in my “By Moonlight” dark paranormal shape-shifter series that hits the e-verse today!!
Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Hopefully you’ve got it preordered to appear on your digital device of choice while you attend parades and enjoy the advent of summer, but if not, it’s available through all e-outlets right now! If you haven’t made up your mind, let me convince you via this lineup of events.
Today, my Terriot prince will be mixing it up in the Supernatural Smackdown at Dark Faerie Tales, facing off against other paranormal characters for the title of Baddest of the Badasses. Stop in and vote for your preternatural champion. I’ll be giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to help toward those must have summer reads. Get ready to rumble!
Tomorrow, get ready to be Blitzed. Bewitching Book Tours has brought together 24 blog sites to share in my new release fervor with guest posts, interviews, spotlights, and reviews. I’ll have the list of participants up tomorrow for you to follow. I never leave home without a map!
And that’s not all . . . I’ve been busy. I’ll be out and about throughout the month of June visiting writers groups and bloggers. Here’s where you can find me:
5-20 to 6-10-13 Fresh Fiction Pack Your Beach Tote event. I’ll be giving away a $15 Amazon gift card!
5-27-13 Supernatural Smackdown at Dark Faerie Tales. Giving away a $10 Amazon gift card! (I love that one click!)
5-28-13 Release Day Blitz with Bewitching Book Tours
5-29-13 Q&A at Author Café
5-30-13 Q&A with Diane Burton
5-31-13 Interview with Nancy Lee Badger
6-1-13 Guest blog at RonCom.com
6-6-13 Guest blog on “Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself” at FF&P RWA
6-7-13 Guest blog at Savvy Authors
6-7 to 6-17-13 Bad Boys of Romance Giveaway Hop. I’m giving away a $10 Amazon gift card!
6-15-13 Article in Bewitching Magazine in their spotlight on werewolves.
6-15 to 8-31-13 Night Owl Reviews Summer Fun Scavenger Hunt. I’m offering a $25 Amazon gift card! It just gets better and better!
6-25-13 Q&A at Cats, Books, and...More Cats!
Watch my Events page for more details and links to help you find your way!
Pardon me. I think I need more potato salad!
Happy Summer! Happy Reading! And no, I’m not going to tell you how old I am.
“5 Stars! Told in Gideon’s unique manner, serving up tortured and spine tingling alpha male, PRINCE OF SHADOWS transcends the paranormal with a gripping love story. Another amazing addition to the Moonlight series.”- Readaholics Anonymous
Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Hopefully you’ve got it preordered to appear on your digital device of choice while you attend parades and enjoy the advent of summer, but if not, it’s available through all e-outlets right now! If you haven’t made up your mind, let me convince you via this lineup of events.
Today, my Terriot prince will be mixing it up in the Supernatural Smackdown at Dark Faerie Tales, facing off against other paranormal characters for the title of Baddest of the Badasses. Stop in and vote for your preternatural champion. I’ll be giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to help toward those must have summer reads. Get ready to rumble! 
Tomorrow, get ready to be Blitzed. Bewitching Book Tours has brought together 24 blog sites to share in my new release fervor with guest posts, interviews, spotlights, and reviews. I’ll have the list of participants up tomorrow for you to follow. I never leave home without a map! And that’s not all . . . I’ve been busy. I’ll be out and about throughout the month of June visiting writers groups and bloggers. Here’s where you can find me:
5-20 to 6-10-13 Fresh Fiction Pack Your Beach Tote event. I’ll be giving away a $15 Amazon gift card!
5-27-13 Supernatural Smackdown at Dark Faerie Tales. Giving away a $10 Amazon gift card! (I love that one click!)
5-28-13 Release Day Blitz with Bewitching Book Tours
5-29-13 Q&A at Author Café
5-30-13 Q&A with Diane Burton
5-31-13 Interview with Nancy Lee Badger
6-1-13 Guest blog at RonCom.com
6-6-13 Guest blog on “Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself” at FF&P RWA
6-7-13 Guest blog at Savvy Authors
6-7 to 6-17-13 Bad Boys of Romance Giveaway Hop. I’m giving away a $10 Amazon gift card!
6-15-13 Article in Bewitching Magazine in their spotlight on werewolves.
6-15 to 8-31-13 Night Owl Reviews Summer Fun Scavenger Hunt. I’m offering a $25 Amazon gift card! It just gets better and better!
6-25-13 Q&A at Cats, Books, and...More Cats!
Watch my Events page for more details and links to help you find your way!
Pardon me. I think I need more potato salad!
Happy Summer! Happy Reading! And no, I’m not going to tell you how old I am.
“5 Stars! Told in Gideon’s unique manner, serving up tortured and spine tingling alpha male, PRINCE OF SHADOWS transcends the paranormal with a gripping love story. Another amazing addition to the Moonlight series.”- Readaholics Anonymous
May 26, 2013
Sneak Peek Sunday!
I’m so excited to participate in my first Sneak Peek Sunday! I love sharing and I love meeting new authors and sampling their works.
I’ve attached a sniblet from my brand new (as in available tomorrow in the e-verse!) release, PRINCE OF SHADOWS, Book 8 in my “By Moonlight” dark paranormal Shape-shifter series with Pocket. After you read it, please continue on through the Sneak Peek link to savor more tidbits from other authors.
ENJOY!
She felt Cale recoil when she seized his hand. Before he could react, she dropped to her knees, pressing her cheek to his knuckles so he’d feel the heat of her tears.
“My prince, I beg you. Please don’t strip me of my family.” And then a softer, achingly personal petition. “Cale, please.”
Kendra’s anguished gaze lifted to take in the harshly magnetic features he shared with his clan: strong, scowling lines beneath short, spiky dark blond hair shot through with Terriot red. He took a quick breath. Anger infused his expression, not quite disguising a flicker of agitation. He pulled his hand away, warning, “Don’t ever do that again.”
She searched for some sign of sympathy in the stropped-steel-gray eyes, now so unmoved and pitiless. Yet he drew her to her feet with deference he hadn’t shown her cousin as he pronounced, “We’re your only family now,” and walked purposefully away.
She huddled in the doorway, panting wildly as the truth closed around her like a noose. She was on her own for the first time in her life, surrounded by a clan of ruthless preternatural beings determined to rip away the only thing of value she could still cling to.
Her virginity.
PRINCE OF SHADOWS by Nancy Gideon
Pocket Star / 5-27-13
Amazon or Barnes & Noble
“5 of 5 Stars! Grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. Darker, grittier, more dangerous, and had a plot rife with twists . . . and I simply loved it. This might be my favorite of the series.” – Literal Addiction
Others Controlled Her Fate
A gentle female held hostage in a deadly play for power, Kendra Terriot’s only means of survival for herself and her family is to play to a careful courtship game. The one she chooses from her clan’s dangerous heirs will inherit the coveted crown, keeping her their prisoner forever . . . unless she can retain her virtue until rescue arrives.
The Past Destroyed His Dreams
Favored son of their brutal Shifter leader, the only calm in Cale Terriot’s violent world is a childhood love for his delicate distant cousin whom he’s pledged to make his queen. With Kendra at his side, he knows he can become the kind of ruler his clan needs, but first he must learn how to become the kind of mate she desires.
A Choice Would Determine Their Future
In a treacherous race for control, where weakness means death, Cale must prove he’s not the beast his beauty fears and still protect her, especially once her unrequited love returns to free her. The only way to win her respect could mean surrendering his throne. The only way to win her heart could mean letting her go . . . even if she no longer wants to be saved.
“He-ll-oo sexy shifter romance—why haven’t I met you before?? Pure unadulterated romance with a sizzling Romeo and Juliet plotline. I mightily enjoyed this book. What a smorgasbord of shifter hotness!” – The Urban Book Thief
“Told in Gideon’s unique manner, serving up tortured and spine tingling alpha male, PRINCE OF SHADOWS transcends the paranormal with a gripping love story. Another amazing addition to the Moonlight series. 5 Stars!” – Readaholics Anonymous
May 22, 2013
Meet Cale, Prince of the House of Terriot . . .
Cale Terriot. Le sigh . . . I confess. I always fall in love with my heroes. I figure if I don’t, how can my reader? But after spending weeks with Cale, my rowdy, tattooed, rock and roll prince, I was more than ready to run off with him for a lengthy affair (providing he’d agree to some fairly extensive therapy to deal with his family issues!). He was so much fun to develop on the pages of PRINCE OF SHADOWS with his strutty pride, designer suits and diamond stud earring (pitbulls with rhinestone collars is how Silas MacCreedy describes him and his brothers). But all that flash could be stripped away in an instant to lay bare a fiercely loyal and dangerous protective Shifter male in Back to Butt-kicking Business black whose only goal is to claim the heart of his childhood love. It’s no secret. I adore a thuggish, action-oriented underdog who fights for what he wants with driven intensity, a touch of unpredictable savagery, a spark of humor, and drop dead sexiness. That’s my prince in spades.
Don’t take my word for it. Here’s a little something to tempt you ...
* * * * *
She was right. He was a beast. He’d had to be, to win this chance to have her. He’d have to show her he could be other things, too. Good things, noble things, admirable things. Protector, mate, friend. And lover, not just the throw-her-down-to-sink-a-claim-and-carry-off-a-crown the rest of them were interested in. He was interested in that, but only as a secondary goal, far removed from the one that would have her looking at him as she had when they were young. Who needed to see the stars when that glimpse of heaven was in her eyes?
Tomorrow he’d have another chance to breach that gap between them . . . that yawning open grave filled with the bodies of her loved ones. Just how, he didn’t know, short of falling to his knees to proclaim the truth. I have loved you all my life and will never be any kind of man without you.
He stood in the shadowed doorway. Before him was everything he’d ever wanted, there for the taking, but for the first time in a long time, he was afraid to make a move.
A blush of moonlight filtered down from the skylight to bathe Kendra’s sleeping form in a tender halo. So beautiful that it hurt to look upon her while dark, urgent thoughts prowled. His gaze adored the relaxed innocence of her features, the way her fair hair rippled across the pillow like silk. No protective bulk of fleece tonight. Something silky and shimmering detailed the contours of her graceful shape.
His soft exhale of longing was tempered by the fisting of hands that still shook. He couldn’t keep himself away any longer. His need had intensified into an agony of desire and regret. Her scent drew him inexorably where he shouldn’t go, where he couldn’t trust himself to be. Close enough to be a threat to her. Because promises had yet to be sealed with a bond.
She stirred in her sleep, murmuring softly, rolling onto her back. That slippery gown whispered across her breasts and hips the way his hands yearned to. He watched her take unhurried breaths, unaware of how harsh and forceful his own had become.
Take her!
It was the way his family did things. Swift, purposeful action, necessarily brutal, to take and hold what was theirs. His queen, beside him. His heirs, inside her.
That dizzying heat returned, scalding his brain, flaming through his body in a shuddering rush. An inferno of raw determination.
She’s yours by her own vow. Claim her!
She shifted within that seductive wrap of silk, and all he could think of was tearing it off her, feeling the warmth of her body, exulting in the glorious relief of joining with her beautiful spirit.
Staining it. Bruising it. Crushing it along with her trust and any love she might ever have felt for him.
“Cale?”
The cool touch of her voice pierced through the pounding rage of his intentions. He faded
back into shadow, silently withholding his presence from her until she settled back to sleep.
* * * * *
Whew! Is it hot in here or is that just me? PRINCE OF SHADOWS hits the e-verse on 5-27-13 but you can preorder from Amazon or Barnes & Noble so it will be ready and waiting for you after that long weekend.
Here’s what The Urban Book Thief, self-proclaimed home of kick-ass romance, urban fantasy and paranormal book news and reviews had to say about PRINCE OF SHADOWS in an early review:
“He-ll-ooo sexy shifter romance—why haven’t I met you before?? Pure unadulterated romance with a sizzling Romeo and Juliet plotline. I mightily enjoyed this book. You don’t usually see the hot alpha stud as the more romantic one in a paranormal pair, so I liked that different perspective. What a smorgasbord of shifter hotness!”–The Urban Book Thief
Don’t take my word for it. Here’s a little something to tempt you ...
* * * * *
She was right. He was a beast. He’d had to be, to win this chance to have her. He’d have to show her he could be other things, too. Good things, noble things, admirable things. Protector, mate, friend. And lover, not just the throw-her-down-to-sink-a-claim-and-carry-off-a-crown the rest of them were interested in. He was interested in that, but only as a secondary goal, far removed from the one that would have her looking at him as she had when they were young. Who needed to see the stars when that glimpse of heaven was in her eyes?
Tomorrow he’d have another chance to breach that gap between them . . . that yawning open grave filled with the bodies of her loved ones. Just how, he didn’t know, short of falling to his knees to proclaim the truth. I have loved you all my life and will never be any kind of man without you.
He stood in the shadowed doorway. Before him was everything he’d ever wanted, there for the taking, but for the first time in a long time, he was afraid to make a move.
A blush of moonlight filtered down from the skylight to bathe Kendra’s sleeping form in a tender halo. So beautiful that it hurt to look upon her while dark, urgent thoughts prowled. His gaze adored the relaxed innocence of her features, the way her fair hair rippled across the pillow like silk. No protective bulk of fleece tonight. Something silky and shimmering detailed the contours of her graceful shape.
His soft exhale of longing was tempered by the fisting of hands that still shook. He couldn’t keep himself away any longer. His need had intensified into an agony of desire and regret. Her scent drew him inexorably where he shouldn’t go, where he couldn’t trust himself to be. Close enough to be a threat to her. Because promises had yet to be sealed with a bond.
She stirred in her sleep, murmuring softly, rolling onto her back. That slippery gown whispered across her breasts and hips the way his hands yearned to. He watched her take unhurried breaths, unaware of how harsh and forceful his own had become.
Take her!
It was the way his family did things. Swift, purposeful action, necessarily brutal, to take and hold what was theirs. His queen, beside him. His heirs, inside her.
That dizzying heat returned, scalding his brain, flaming through his body in a shuddering rush. An inferno of raw determination.
She’s yours by her own vow. Claim her!
She shifted within that seductive wrap of silk, and all he could think of was tearing it off her, feeling the warmth of her body, exulting in the glorious relief of joining with her beautiful spirit.
Staining it. Bruising it. Crushing it along with her trust and any love she might ever have felt for him.
“Cale?”
The cool touch of her voice pierced through the pounding rage of his intentions. He faded
back into shadow, silently withholding his presence from her until she settled back to sleep.
* * * * *
Whew! Is it hot in here or is that just me? PRINCE OF SHADOWS hits the e-verse on 5-27-13 but you can preorder from Amazon or Barnes & Noble so it will be ready and waiting for you after that long weekend.
Here’s what The Urban Book Thief, self-proclaimed home of kick-ass romance, urban fantasy and paranormal book news and reviews had to say about PRINCE OF SHADOWS in an early review:
“He-ll-ooo sexy shifter romance—why haven’t I met you before?? Pure unadulterated romance with a sizzling Romeo and Juliet plotline. I mightily enjoyed this book. You don’t usually see the hot alpha stud as the more romantic one in a paranormal pair, so I liked that different perspective. What a smorgasbord of shifter hotness!”–The Urban Book Thief
May 21, 2013
Meet Kendra Terriot from PRINCE OF SHADOWS
I like my heroines to be strong and independent so it’s hard for me to write about a fragile, helpless female. When Kendra Terriot, the cousin of Silas and Brigit MacCreedy, was introduced in
HUNTER OF SHADOWS
as the vulnerable victim of a traumatic childhood event who carried an unrequited torch for Silas, I didn’t see heroine material. It wasn’t until she risked returning to the feudal stronghold of the Terriot clan to bargain for her cousins’ safety that I saw the spark of the courage she would need to face off against the tyrannical Terriot leader and his arrogant sons.
Without her overly protective cousins to shelter her, Kendra is forced from her insulated cocoon (in Chapter One!) to meet her fears head on. Now a transformation from mouse to lion is something I can root for, especially when it comes to taming a fiery Terriot prince. Here’s a sample from that first chapter:
“You honor me with your attention, my king.”
“It’s been an honor having you placed in my care.”
Over the corpses of my family. Teeth gritted, Kendra kept her reply mild. “You’ve been very kind and generous. And patient.”
“My concern for you is the reason I’ve called you here.” A sudden wracking cough made him pause; he began again with a slight wheeze. “I’m being unpleasantly reminded that I’m not immortal. I need to make sure our clan is entrusted to the right hands. I have eight eligible sons. All would make strong leaders if they had you beside them.”
Kendra almost dropped to her knees as they went traitorously weak. Time’s up. Her breath caught as he continued.
“I have four bonded sons who have fine mates, but none of them would be my choice as queen. You’re the one I would have seated next to my successor.”
Her thoughts scrambled desperately. “I have no political pull, no experience.”
He cut her off. “You have sentimental ties to my people. They’d rally behind you no matter which of my sons you pick. Your father was beloved by our clan. He was a great man with many friends.”
Her shock and distress loosened a tongue she ought to have held. “Then perhaps you shouldn’t have killed him.”
Her soft words echoed in the room like the sound of a trap-door dropping out from under her feet. Kendra could see her death in the widening surprise and slow furious narrowing of Bram’s eyes. The fact that he refrained from immediate retaliation had her wondering if she held some degree of power after all.
“One makes mistakes that are later regretted,” he told her with careful control. “I plan to amend that by bonding you to one of my sons.”
Cale stepped forward with a quick “I demand the right of first claim.”
Startled, Kendra glanced his way. His tightly leashed intensity reminded her that behind the civilized veneer, a barely restrained attack dog quivered at the end of its chain. She had no doubt that if released by a word from his father, he would take her to the floor right then and there to seal the deal for that coveted place on the throne.
Bram chuckled. “I’m sure you do. But you’ll wait your turn, just as your brothers will have to. The decision is hers. Step back and be silent.”
Cale inclined his head slightly, withdrawing to stand beside his siblings, though his coiled focus never wavered. His stare remained fixed upon her.
Bram offered an apologetic smile, saying, “Boys,” with an indulgent shrug as if that explained away everything. “Patience is not a virtue of the young so I’m afraid I must insist on an answer before the decision is taken from you.”
Kendra swallowed in panic. “How could I choose among them, my king? I’ve never even exchanged words with most of them, so how could I pledge my future? I can’t rush a decision this important if I’m to serve your crown by choosing wisely.”
Impatience wasn’t just a curse of the young. She could see it thinning Bram’s lips before they eased into another smile. “I was right to select you, my dear. You’ll give this task the gravity it deserves and this clan the heirs it needs.”
Heirs.
Suddenly, all Kendra could hear was the hard rhythm of Cale’s breathing. Imagining the forceful heat of it on the back of her neck quickened a shiver. She held her ground, but not without difficulty.
“If it’s courting you want,” Bram announced, “that’s what you’ll have. A little contest to put my sons through their paces will be good for them. Some competition to impress you and some conversation to woo your affection. And then you’ll choose.”
Kendra had no interest in getting to know the fiercely misogynistic Terriot princes. What she already knew was the stuff of nightmares. All she was after was a stay of execution that would give Silas time to snatch her from their grasp. And keep her from their beds.
“Thank you for the opportunity to be fair and wise.”
And, if she were very lucky, to escape.
I hope you’ll stop back tomorrow to meet my rowdy, tattooed, rock and roll hero, Cale, one of the Twelve of the House of Terriot who is determined to make Kendra his queen.
“5 of 5 Stars! Grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. Darker, grittier, more dangerous, and had a plot rife with twists . . . and I simply loved it. This might be my favorite of the series.” – Literal Addiction
PRINCE OF SHADOWS, the 8th Book in my “By Moonlight” dark paranormal shape-shifter series is available for pre-order at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as an e-exclusive from Pocket Books.
Without her overly protective cousins to shelter her, Kendra is forced from her insulated cocoon (in Chapter One!) to meet her fears head on. Now a transformation from mouse to lion is something I can root for, especially when it comes to taming a fiery Terriot prince. Here’s a sample from that first chapter:
“You honor me with your attention, my king.”
“It’s been an honor having you placed in my care.”
Over the corpses of my family. Teeth gritted, Kendra kept her reply mild. “You’ve been very kind and generous. And patient.”
“My concern for you is the reason I’ve called you here.” A sudden wracking cough made him pause; he began again with a slight wheeze. “I’m being unpleasantly reminded that I’m not immortal. I need to make sure our clan is entrusted to the right hands. I have eight eligible sons. All would make strong leaders if they had you beside them.”
Kendra almost dropped to her knees as they went traitorously weak. Time’s up. Her breath caught as he continued.
“I have four bonded sons who have fine mates, but none of them would be my choice as queen. You’re the one I would have seated next to my successor.”
Her thoughts scrambled desperately. “I have no political pull, no experience.”
He cut her off. “You have sentimental ties to my people. They’d rally behind you no matter which of my sons you pick. Your father was beloved by our clan. He was a great man with many friends.”
Her shock and distress loosened a tongue she ought to have held. “Then perhaps you shouldn’t have killed him.”
Her soft words echoed in the room like the sound of a trap-door dropping out from under her feet. Kendra could see her death in the widening surprise and slow furious narrowing of Bram’s eyes. The fact that he refrained from immediate retaliation had her wondering if she held some degree of power after all.
“One makes mistakes that are later regretted,” he told her with careful control. “I plan to amend that by bonding you to one of my sons.”
Cale stepped forward with a quick “I demand the right of first claim.”
Startled, Kendra glanced his way. His tightly leashed intensity reminded her that behind the civilized veneer, a barely restrained attack dog quivered at the end of its chain. She had no doubt that if released by a word from his father, he would take her to the floor right then and there to seal the deal for that coveted place on the throne.
Bram chuckled. “I’m sure you do. But you’ll wait your turn, just as your brothers will have to. The decision is hers. Step back and be silent.”
Cale inclined his head slightly, withdrawing to stand beside his siblings, though his coiled focus never wavered. His stare remained fixed upon her.
Bram offered an apologetic smile, saying, “Boys,” with an indulgent shrug as if that explained away everything. “Patience is not a virtue of the young so I’m afraid I must insist on an answer before the decision is taken from you.”
Kendra swallowed in panic. “How could I choose among them, my king? I’ve never even exchanged words with most of them, so how could I pledge my future? I can’t rush a decision this important if I’m to serve your crown by choosing wisely.”
Impatience wasn’t just a curse of the young. She could see it thinning Bram’s lips before they eased into another smile. “I was right to select you, my dear. You’ll give this task the gravity it deserves and this clan the heirs it needs.”
Heirs.
Suddenly, all Kendra could hear was the hard rhythm of Cale’s breathing. Imagining the forceful heat of it on the back of her neck quickened a shiver. She held her ground, but not without difficulty.
“If it’s courting you want,” Bram announced, “that’s what you’ll have. A little contest to put my sons through their paces will be good for them. Some competition to impress you and some conversation to woo your affection. And then you’ll choose.”
Kendra had no interest in getting to know the fiercely misogynistic Terriot princes. What she already knew was the stuff of nightmares. All she was after was a stay of execution that would give Silas time to snatch her from their grasp. And keep her from their beds.
“Thank you for the opportunity to be fair and wise.”
And, if she were very lucky, to escape.
I hope you’ll stop back tomorrow to meet my rowdy, tattooed, rock and roll hero, Cale, one of the Twelve of the House of Terriot who is determined to make Kendra his queen.
“5 of 5 Stars! Grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. Darker, grittier, more dangerous, and had a plot rife with twists . . . and I simply loved it. This might be my favorite of the series.” – Literal Addiction
PRINCE OF SHADOWS, the 8th Book in my “By Moonlight” dark paranormal shape-shifter series is available for pre-order at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as an e-exclusive from Pocket Books.
May 14, 2013
In The Name of Love Character Quiz
I love a space adventure. Just in time to gear up for the newest Star Trek reboot, it’s “Beam me up, Diane!”
Even though I’m not ready for that final frontier for the SWITCHED series with book 3, SWITCHED RESOLUTION, I’ll admit it was a great ride while it lasted. Strap in and blast off on another bumpy ride to true love with Diane Burton’s latest star-crossed lovers, Scott and Veronese. As you enjoy their witty repartee during this interview, savor a taste of the author’s voice that makes her writing such a sassy, interactive pleasure to read.
So get on board for some out-of-this-world techie fun . . . and no, you don’t have to be a geek to sign on for the trip . . .
©What word best describes true love?
Veronese: I am uncomfortable discussing something so personal. *turns to Scott* Must I answer this stranger’s questions?
Scott: That’s what an interview is, love. Go ahead. Nobody will read your answers. *winks at the interviewer*
Veronese: All right then. Dependable would be my word.
Scott: Everlasting is mine.
©Finish this sentence: When I think of love, I think of _______
Veronese: It’s such a new concept. I’m having difficulty expressing what I think.
Scott: One word—Neese. I mean, Veronese
©What’s your ideal romantic evening?
Scott: There’s this great, little Italian bistro in Ann Arbor. Nobody’s discovered it yet. Papa Georgio makes THE best mosticiolli, just like my grandmother used to make. (I think he stole her recipe. LOL) And Mama Sophia’s bread is to die for. We’d have a corner table with only a candle in a Chianti bottle. I know that sounds hokey, but there it doesn’t seem so. Papa’s brother, Antonio, would stop serving and grab his violin and play sweet Italian love songs. Perfection. Oops, forgot one thing. Mama’s cannolis for dessert.
Veronese: A quiet dinner in the captain’s quarters with no interruptions from the crew.
©What’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift?
Veronese: I do not understand. What is this Valentine’s Day? We do not have such thing on Serenia.
Scott: Oh, babe, do I have a surprise for you. We should be back on Serenia in February—I know, Serenia doesn’t have months like we do on Earth. But I’ll still keep track. Oh, yeah. You’re really going to be surprised.
©Did you ever think you’d found that perfect love? What happened?
Veronese: No. There is no such thing on Serenia. We accept an offer from one of the prospective mates The Elders have chosen for us. Unfortunately, none of mine were interesting enough to commit to.
Scott: Good thing. I’d hate to have to take one of those guys behind the barn and show him who’s your true love.
Veronese: I do not understand how taking a man behind the barn would convince him.
Scott: Oh, babe, I love it when our expressions trip you up. *whispers in her ear*
Veronese: *wide-eyed look* You would do that?!
Scott: Since you’re the true love I never thought I’d find, of course.
©What are the ideal traits you’re looking for in a forever love?
Veronese: The traits I looked for in a mate—remember forever love is a foreign concept for Serenians—
Scott: Good thing you’re not a Serenian, just an Earthling like me. Oh, no. There she goes giving me a death look. Go ahead, Neese. Sorry I interrupted.
Veronese: I looked for someone with whom I had common interests, a man with an agreeable personality—that is, someone calm and peaceful and—
Scott: Boring.
Veronese: *sighs* Alas, you are correct. Perhaps that is why none of The Elders’ choices was unacceptable, even though two fit my criteria. The other kissed like a wet fish.
Scott: *laughs out loud* Come on, admit it. You love my craziness.
Veronese: I do. I also discovered how much I value honesty and integrity. *squeezes his hand* I know your switching places with the captain is a lie, one you will have to continue in order to stay in space. I’m talking about honesty in our relationship. I do love your honesty.
Scott: And my hot bod. Right?
Veronese: *blushes* You know I do.
Scott: As I do yours. *lays a kiss on her that makes the interviewer blush*
©What was your first opinion of each other?
Veronese: He was an arrogant, smart ass (yes, I do know some Terran expressions) who thought switching places with the captain would be a piece of pie.
Scott: Cake. And I thought she had a stick up her ass. (cute ass that it is). She was all rules and regulations. She didn’t think I could be a proper Space Fleet captain. Boy, did I show her!
©Were you first attracted to each other?
(together): NO!
Scott: Actually, I was sort of falling for her before we met. Her brother would go on and on about her bravery and shy sense of humor. And she worked on a starship, where I’ve wanted to be since I was six. So, yeah, I was halfway gone before I even met her.
Veronese: You were? You fell in love with me then? *shifts uncomfortably* When I first met him, I, uh, had very strange sensations whenever we were alone together—like vidges crawling under my skin and shivers when he spoke in my ear and the oddest feeling very low in my abdomen when he invaded my space. At first, I thought I had contracted a Terran ailment.
Scott: *looking very pleased* You were horny.
©What kept you from acting on that attraction?
Scott: Sabotage to the ship. We were a little busy. But she came around. *gloats*
Veronese: *swats his arm* You have no sense of decorum.
Scott: And you love me for that.
Veronese: *sighs* I do.
©Who made the first move and what was it?
Scott: Neese started to loosen up. But it wasn’t until I realized how much her help jeopardized her position on the ship that I knew I had settle down. My smart mouth has gotten me into trouble before. Even though curbing my impulsiveness was hard, it was worth it to see little glimpses of admiration in her eyes.
Veronese: He became more serious. What really changed my perception of him was when I realized he always put himself between me and danger. He has a protective streak I didn’t expect. Once I put aside my initial impressions, I saw the strong, good man underneath.
©What’s the best thing about the two of you together?
Veronese: He makes me laugh.
Scott: We’re stronger together. When all the sabotage was going on, she was the one person I could trust. I knew I could count on her. I’d do anything for her. Even give up staying in space.
Veronese: *leans into him* You don’t have to. ©What are you most looking forward to as a couple?
Scott: Not having to sneak around or make up excuses for her to come to my quarters—or me going to hers. I want to marry her so we can be together forever. Independent little cuss that she is, she beat me to the proposal.
Veronese: Are you still going on about that? I thought you would be pleased that I want to commit to you. That I want to be with you forever. That I love you and want to have your chil—
Scott: *stands and pulls Veronese in his arms, kisses her soundly* Interview over.
Actions have consequences as Space Fleet Captain Marcus Viator and NASA reject Scott Cherella discover when they switch places. Switched Resolution, which wraps up the Switched series, takes the reader from Earth—where Marcus adjusts to a pregnant Jessie—to the starship Freedom commandeered by rebels, to the chase ship with Scott and Veronese aboard.
Available on: Amazon and Smashwords
Excerpt
With duffle bags slung over shoulders, banging against hips and each other, Scott Cherella and Veronese Qilana raced through the Malawea Spaceport terminal. His ship was gone. Stolen. Not just by the rebels incarcerated on board but by three of his own crew.
“I still can’t believe Drakus and Usolde took the Freedom.” Neese panted from running.
Scott was surprised at how many people either milled around or strolled down the terminal’s main corridor in the middle of the night. He and Neese attracted attention. Maybe Serenians didn’t run through public buildings. Too damn bad. This was an emergency.
“Those two have a lot to answer for,” he said.
Once they got to the hangar—or whatever Serenians called the area where various flight vehicles landed and took off—he let her lead the way. He’d only been through there once, yesterday, after arriving aboard a shuttle from Space Station Alpha where the Freedom had docked. Where it should still be docked.
“This way.” Neese darted down a narrow passageway. “I want to know about the other man. Both Drakus and Usolde mentioned a he who tricked them. Any ideas?”
“You know the crew better than I do. Well, longer anyway.” He had only been aboard the Freedom for three weeks, ever since he switched places with his twin. And, holy shit, what a time it had been. Sabotage, capture, rescue, ecstasy, betrayal.
Yeah, he wanted to know the other guy’s identity, too. A member of the Freedom’s crew had not only masterminded the recent sabotage but also the release of war criminals and the theft of Scott’s ship. How the hell had they gotten it out of spacedock? There had to be controls. Clearance requirements. On top of that, he wondered why the Freedom. The rebels needed a ship to escape. Surely, other ships were easier to take out from under Space Fleet Security than an Alliance battle cruiser. Or maybe that had been the point. A way of thumbing their noses at The Powers That Be.
“Wait.” He snagged the strap of Neese’s bag. They’d gotten to the end of a long hall. She turned to him, questions in her Lake Michigan blue eyes. God, he loved seeing them without the silver lenses she had worn to pass as Serenian. He couldn’t wait for her short hair to grow out. Like wearing camouflage lenses, she’d dyed her hair black to look like a Serenian. He bet if left to nature, her hair would be a deep auburn like Jessie’s. With waves, too, once it was long enough. Or maybe it would curl cutely around her face.
Nah. Neese was many things—striking, intelligent, strong-willed—but never cute.
Edging her into the corner, he dropped his duffle and pulled her into his arms. “I gotta do this before we meet up with the others.”
She opened her mouth in surprise as his came down. He hoped the kiss he planted on her made her remember what they’d been doing two hours earlier. Finally alone and no longer worried about non-fraternization rules, they’d made love in a proper bed. It had been perfect. Perfect until she beat him to the punch and proposed. If the damn computer hadn’t interrupted with urgent messages, he would have made sure she understood there were some things a guy just had to do on his own.
Independent little cuss.
She broke off the kiss, her eyes huge. “We—We shouldn’t do this. Someone might—”
“Relax, Neese. Nobody’s around.”
“There could be.” When she scooted past him, her bag swung out and caught him in the side. Uttering a quick apology, she opened the door to a spacious hangar. “Chief Luqett and Mr. Glaxpher said they’d be waiting for us in Area 72.” She pointed overhead.
Up in the rafters, large white lettering designated areas. Naturally, he couldn’t read them. He didn’t think his link, which she’d programmed to translate Serenian symbols, would be able to “read” that far away.
“Where are we now?” he asked softly as he followed her.
“Area 51.”
That stopped him. “You have got to be joking.”
She turned to him and shook her head. “I do not understand.”
“Area 51. Aliens. Roswell, New Mexico.”
“Oh, that fiasco when the Cardijian ship crashed. We need to hurry.”
“You mean that was real?” He started grinning. “Hot damn.”
Diane Burton combines her love of mystery, adventure, science fiction and romance into writing science fiction romance. Besides the Switched series, she is the author of The Pilot, a series about strong women on the frontier of space. She is also a contributor to the anthology How I Met My Husband. Diane and her husband live in Michigan. They have two children and two grandchildren.
For more info and excerpts from her books, visit Diane’s:
Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest
Follow @DMBurton72
Even though I’m not ready for that final frontier for the SWITCHED series with book 3, SWITCHED RESOLUTION, I’ll admit it was a great ride while it lasted. Strap in and blast off on another bumpy ride to true love with Diane Burton’s latest star-crossed lovers, Scott and Veronese. As you enjoy their witty repartee during this interview, savor a taste of the author’s voice that makes her writing such a sassy, interactive pleasure to read.
So get on board for some out-of-this-world techie fun . . . and no, you don’t have to be a geek to sign on for the trip . . .
©What word best describes true love?
Veronese: I am uncomfortable discussing something so personal. *turns to Scott* Must I answer this stranger’s questions?
Scott: That’s what an interview is, love. Go ahead. Nobody will read your answers. *winks at the interviewer*
Veronese: All right then. Dependable would be my word.
Scott: Everlasting is mine.
©Finish this sentence: When I think of love, I think of _______
Veronese: It’s such a new concept. I’m having difficulty expressing what I think.
Scott: One word—Neese. I mean, Veronese
©What’s your ideal romantic evening?
Scott: There’s this great, little Italian bistro in Ann Arbor. Nobody’s discovered it yet. Papa Georgio makes THE best mosticiolli, just like my grandmother used to make. (I think he stole her recipe. LOL) And Mama Sophia’s bread is to die for. We’d have a corner table with only a candle in a Chianti bottle. I know that sounds hokey, but there it doesn’t seem so. Papa’s brother, Antonio, would stop serving and grab his violin and play sweet Italian love songs. Perfection. Oops, forgot one thing. Mama’s cannolis for dessert.
Veronese: A quiet dinner in the captain’s quarters with no interruptions from the crew.
©What’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift?
Veronese: I do not understand. What is this Valentine’s Day? We do not have such thing on Serenia.
Scott: Oh, babe, do I have a surprise for you. We should be back on Serenia in February—I know, Serenia doesn’t have months like we do on Earth. But I’ll still keep track. Oh, yeah. You’re really going to be surprised.
©Did you ever think you’d found that perfect love? What happened?
Veronese: No. There is no such thing on Serenia. We accept an offer from one of the prospective mates The Elders have chosen for us. Unfortunately, none of mine were interesting enough to commit to.
Scott: Good thing. I’d hate to have to take one of those guys behind the barn and show him who’s your true love.
Veronese: I do not understand how taking a man behind the barn would convince him.
Scott: Oh, babe, I love it when our expressions trip you up. *whispers in her ear*
Veronese: *wide-eyed look* You would do that?!
Scott: Since you’re the true love I never thought I’d find, of course.
©What are the ideal traits you’re looking for in a forever love?
Veronese: The traits I looked for in a mate—remember forever love is a foreign concept for Serenians—
Scott: Good thing you’re not a Serenian, just an Earthling like me. Oh, no. There she goes giving me a death look. Go ahead, Neese. Sorry I interrupted.
Veronese: I looked for someone with whom I had common interests, a man with an agreeable personality—that is, someone calm and peaceful and—
Scott: Boring.
Veronese: *sighs* Alas, you are correct. Perhaps that is why none of The Elders’ choices was unacceptable, even though two fit my criteria. The other kissed like a wet fish.
Scott: *laughs out loud* Come on, admit it. You love my craziness.
Veronese: I do. I also discovered how much I value honesty and integrity. *squeezes his hand* I know your switching places with the captain is a lie, one you will have to continue in order to stay in space. I’m talking about honesty in our relationship. I do love your honesty.
Scott: And my hot bod. Right?
Veronese: *blushes* You know I do.
Scott: As I do yours. *lays a kiss on her that makes the interviewer blush*
©What was your first opinion of each other?
Veronese: He was an arrogant, smart ass (yes, I do know some Terran expressions) who thought switching places with the captain would be a piece of pie.
Scott: Cake. And I thought she had a stick up her ass. (cute ass that it is). She was all rules and regulations. She didn’t think I could be a proper Space Fleet captain. Boy, did I show her!
©Were you first attracted to each other?
(together): NO!
Scott: Actually, I was sort of falling for her before we met. Her brother would go on and on about her bravery and shy sense of humor. And she worked on a starship, where I’ve wanted to be since I was six. So, yeah, I was halfway gone before I even met her.
Veronese: You were? You fell in love with me then? *shifts uncomfortably* When I first met him, I, uh, had very strange sensations whenever we were alone together—like vidges crawling under my skin and shivers when he spoke in my ear and the oddest feeling very low in my abdomen when he invaded my space. At first, I thought I had contracted a Terran ailment.
Scott: *looking very pleased* You were horny.
©What kept you from acting on that attraction?
Scott: Sabotage to the ship. We were a little busy. But she came around. *gloats*
Veronese: *swats his arm* You have no sense of decorum.
Scott: And you love me for that.
Veronese: *sighs* I do.
©Who made the first move and what was it?
Scott: Neese started to loosen up. But it wasn’t until I realized how much her help jeopardized her position on the ship that I knew I had settle down. My smart mouth has gotten me into trouble before. Even though curbing my impulsiveness was hard, it was worth it to see little glimpses of admiration in her eyes.
Veronese: He became more serious. What really changed my perception of him was when I realized he always put himself between me and danger. He has a protective streak I didn’t expect. Once I put aside my initial impressions, I saw the strong, good man underneath.
©What’s the best thing about the two of you together?
Veronese: He makes me laugh.
Scott: We’re stronger together. When all the sabotage was going on, she was the one person I could trust. I knew I could count on her. I’d do anything for her. Even give up staying in space.
Veronese: *leans into him* You don’t have to. ©What are you most looking forward to as a couple?
Scott: Not having to sneak around or make up excuses for her to come to my quarters—or me going to hers. I want to marry her so we can be together forever. Independent little cuss that she is, she beat me to the proposal.
Veronese: Are you still going on about that? I thought you would be pleased that I want to commit to you. That I want to be with you forever. That I love you and want to have your chil—
Scott: *stands and pulls Veronese in his arms, kisses her soundly* Interview over.
Actions have consequences as Space Fleet Captain Marcus Viator and NASA reject Scott Cherella discover when they switch places. Switched Resolution, which wraps up the Switched series, takes the reader from Earth—where Marcus adjusts to a pregnant Jessie—to the starship Freedom commandeered by rebels, to the chase ship with Scott and Veronese aboard. Available on: Amazon and Smashwords
Excerpt
With duffle bags slung over shoulders, banging against hips and each other, Scott Cherella and Veronese Qilana raced through the Malawea Spaceport terminal. His ship was gone. Stolen. Not just by the rebels incarcerated on board but by three of his own crew.
“I still can’t believe Drakus and Usolde took the Freedom.” Neese panted from running.
Scott was surprised at how many people either milled around or strolled down the terminal’s main corridor in the middle of the night. He and Neese attracted attention. Maybe Serenians didn’t run through public buildings. Too damn bad. This was an emergency.
“Those two have a lot to answer for,” he said.
Once they got to the hangar—or whatever Serenians called the area where various flight vehicles landed and took off—he let her lead the way. He’d only been through there once, yesterday, after arriving aboard a shuttle from Space Station Alpha where the Freedom had docked. Where it should still be docked.
“This way.” Neese darted down a narrow passageway. “I want to know about the other man. Both Drakus and Usolde mentioned a he who tricked them. Any ideas?”
“You know the crew better than I do. Well, longer anyway.” He had only been aboard the Freedom for three weeks, ever since he switched places with his twin. And, holy shit, what a time it had been. Sabotage, capture, rescue, ecstasy, betrayal.
Yeah, he wanted to know the other guy’s identity, too. A member of the Freedom’s crew had not only masterminded the recent sabotage but also the release of war criminals and the theft of Scott’s ship. How the hell had they gotten it out of spacedock? There had to be controls. Clearance requirements. On top of that, he wondered why the Freedom. The rebels needed a ship to escape. Surely, other ships were easier to take out from under Space Fleet Security than an Alliance battle cruiser. Or maybe that had been the point. A way of thumbing their noses at The Powers That Be.
“Wait.” He snagged the strap of Neese’s bag. They’d gotten to the end of a long hall. She turned to him, questions in her Lake Michigan blue eyes. God, he loved seeing them without the silver lenses she had worn to pass as Serenian. He couldn’t wait for her short hair to grow out. Like wearing camouflage lenses, she’d dyed her hair black to look like a Serenian. He bet if left to nature, her hair would be a deep auburn like Jessie’s. With waves, too, once it was long enough. Or maybe it would curl cutely around her face.
Nah. Neese was many things—striking, intelligent, strong-willed—but never cute.
Edging her into the corner, he dropped his duffle and pulled her into his arms. “I gotta do this before we meet up with the others.”
She opened her mouth in surprise as his came down. He hoped the kiss he planted on her made her remember what they’d been doing two hours earlier. Finally alone and no longer worried about non-fraternization rules, they’d made love in a proper bed. It had been perfect. Perfect until she beat him to the punch and proposed. If the damn computer hadn’t interrupted with urgent messages, he would have made sure she understood there were some things a guy just had to do on his own.
Independent little cuss.
She broke off the kiss, her eyes huge. “We—We shouldn’t do this. Someone might—”
“Relax, Neese. Nobody’s around.”
“There could be.” When she scooted past him, her bag swung out and caught him in the side. Uttering a quick apology, she opened the door to a spacious hangar. “Chief Luqett and Mr. Glaxpher said they’d be waiting for us in Area 72.” She pointed overhead.
Up in the rafters, large white lettering designated areas. Naturally, he couldn’t read them. He didn’t think his link, which she’d programmed to translate Serenian symbols, would be able to “read” that far away.
“Where are we now?” he asked softly as he followed her.
“Area 51.”
That stopped him. “You have got to be joking.”
She turned to him and shook her head. “I do not understand.”
“Area 51. Aliens. Roswell, New Mexico.”
“Oh, that fiasco when the Cardijian ship crashed. We need to hurry.”
“You mean that was real?” He started grinning. “Hot damn.”
Diane Burton combines her love of mystery, adventure, science fiction and romance into writing science fiction romance. Besides the Switched series, she is the author of The Pilot, a series about strong women on the frontier of space. She is also a contributor to the anthology How I Met My Husband. Diane and her husband live in Michigan. They have two children and two grandchildren. For more info and excerpts from her books, visit Diane’s:
Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest
Follow @DMBurton72
May 1, 2013
Gotcha Covered! Cover Reveal for PRINCE OF SHADOWS!
A few weeks ago I gave Facebook friends a sneak peek at the delicious new cover for PRINCE OF SHADOWS, Book 8 in my “BY MOONLIGHT” dark paranormal shape-shifter series from Pocket that will be available as an e-exclusive on 5-27-13 (my birthday! Happy Birthday to me!). Since then it’s begun popping up on Goodreads and Amazon so I figured it was time to celebrate this May Day with an ‘official’ reveal. What do you think of my rowdy, tattooed, rock-and-roll prince Cale Terriot?
Available at:Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Every picture tells a story and this one conveys an important one with its lush pines and not so tranquil waters. We’re not in New Orleans any more. PRINCE OF SHADOWS moves the “By Moonlight” action to Lake Tahoe, home of the Terriots, one of the two powerful clans who threaten the safety of the Louisiana outcasts. You’ve gotten a glimpse of them in BETRAYED BY SHADOWS as ruthless warrior thugs who, under the feudal-like rule of Bram Terriot, seek to conquer and control everything within their reach. But first, they need to unite the splintering factions of their clan by mating the innocent daughter of Bram’s martyred supporter with one of the Princes of the House of Terriot . . .
Others Controlled Her Fate
A gentle female held hostage in a deadly play for power, Kendra Terriot’s only means of survival for herself and her family is to play to a careful courtship game. The one she chooses from her clan’s dangerous heirs will inherit the coveted crown, keeping her their prisoner forever . . . unless she can retain her virtue until rescue arrives.
The Past Destroyed His Dreams
Favored son of their brutal Shifter leader, the only calm in Cale Terriot’s violent world is a childhood love for his delicate distant cousin whom he’s pledged to make his queen. With Kendra at his side, he knows he can become the kind of ruler his clan needs, but first he must learn how to become the kind of mate she desires.
A Choice Would Determine Their Future
In a treacherous race for control, where weakness means death, Cale must prove he’s not the beast his beauty fears and still protect her, especially once her unrequited love returns to free her. The only way to win her respect could mean surrendering his throne. The only way to win her heart could mean letting her go . . . even if she no longer wants to be saved.
Here’s a sneak peek review of PRINCE OF SHADOWS:
"5 of 5 Stars! Full of intrigue, danger, and an intense love story. An emotional roller coaster with passion that sizzles, characters that will capture your heart, and a compelling story to take your breath away. A delicious addition to a fascinating paranormal series. Swept me away to a world of danger, romance and sensual desire. A winner of a read!" - Addicted to Romance
Watch for more up close and personal glimpses over the next three Wednesdays where you can meet Cale and Kendra and enjoy tasty excerpts. I’ll have my promotional schedule of events and appearances posted soon. PRINCE OF SHADOWS is available for preorder. Have it delivered just in time to launch the Summer Reading Season on Memorial Day!
Available at:Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Every picture tells a story and this one conveys an important one with its lush pines and not so tranquil waters. We’re not in New Orleans any more. PRINCE OF SHADOWS moves the “By Moonlight” action to Lake Tahoe, home of the Terriots, one of the two powerful clans who threaten the safety of the Louisiana outcasts. You’ve gotten a glimpse of them in BETRAYED BY SHADOWS as ruthless warrior thugs who, under the feudal-like rule of Bram Terriot, seek to conquer and control everything within their reach. But first, they need to unite the splintering factions of their clan by mating the innocent daughter of Bram’s martyred supporter with one of the Princes of the House of Terriot . . .
Others Controlled Her Fate
A gentle female held hostage in a deadly play for power, Kendra Terriot’s only means of survival for herself and her family is to play to a careful courtship game. The one she chooses from her clan’s dangerous heirs will inherit the coveted crown, keeping her their prisoner forever . . . unless she can retain her virtue until rescue arrives.
The Past Destroyed His Dreams
Favored son of their brutal Shifter leader, the only calm in Cale Terriot’s violent world is a childhood love for his delicate distant cousin whom he’s pledged to make his queen. With Kendra at his side, he knows he can become the kind of ruler his clan needs, but first he must learn how to become the kind of mate she desires.
A Choice Would Determine Their Future
In a treacherous race for control, where weakness means death, Cale must prove he’s not the beast his beauty fears and still protect her, especially once her unrequited love returns to free her. The only way to win her respect could mean surrendering his throne. The only way to win her heart could mean letting her go . . . even if she no longer wants to be saved.
Here’s a sneak peek review of PRINCE OF SHADOWS:
"5 of 5 Stars! Full of intrigue, danger, and an intense love story. An emotional roller coaster with passion that sizzles, characters that will capture your heart, and a compelling story to take your breath away. A delicious addition to a fascinating paranormal series. Swept me away to a world of danger, romance and sensual desire. A winner of a read!" - Addicted to Romance
Watch for more up close and personal glimpses over the next three Wednesdays where you can meet Cale and Kendra and enjoy tasty excerpts. I’ll have my promotional schedule of events and appearances posted soon. PRINCE OF SHADOWS is available for preorder. Have it delivered just in time to launch the Summer Reading Season on Memorial Day!
March 26, 2013
20 Questions: Getting to Know Your Favorite (or soon to be Favorite!) Writer: Elizabeth Alsobrooks!
True friendships stand the test of time and distance. When I first met Elizabeth, she was a single mother and teacher struggling to find an imaginative outlet through romance writing even though her background and writing voice was in academia. How to describe her? Opinionated. Intelligent. Wickedly funny. She loved horror, myths, adventure . . . and books. We clicked creatively and have been each other’s go-to for critiques and encouragement it seems like forever! So I’m absolutely beaming with pride at the release of her first novel, Illuminati: The Book of Life.
This first book in a series is the perfect vehicle for her writing style – a smart adventure/romance she calls Urban Fantasy Reinvented. Strong, relatable characters walk a tight-rope of ancient legends and modern day intrigues, blending action a la Indiana Jones/Lara Croft with the mysteries of a Dan Brownesque mythology, and emotional family pathos. These folks could have their own reality show: Affairs of the Rich and Immortal! Well drawn characters lead the reader along a daring chase that leaves plenty of room for series expansion. My favorite – the eloquently fawning servant Hassidim. I need a Hassidim. I want a Hassidim. And then, of course, there’s the hunky brother, Andrew . . . but that, I’m told, is another story.
Getting to know Elizabeth:1. Party dress or blue jeans? Skorts! I live in AZ.
2. Night owl or early bird? Hoot, for sure!
3. Broadway or museum? Museum…though I loved Phantom of the Opera, both on Broadway and in Vegas.
4. Five words you use to describe yourself. Eclectic. Easily bored. Curious. Confident. Loyal.
5. Favorite books from childhood. Fairy Tales.
6. Three favorite movies. Stargate, Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, and Tomb Raider (I can't count).
7. What’s on your Bucket List? Going to Italy, New Zealand, Egypt and Hawaii. Have Bobby gourmet cook!
8. Something quirky about you that no one knows (we won’t tell anyone!) I do Tarot readings.
The Written word:
9. What type of fiction heroine would you be? Jane Eyre or Lara Croft? Definitely Lara Croft. If I were Jane Eyre, I'd be a serial killer--though I LOVE that novel and wrote my first college English paper about the archetypes in Jane Eyre.
10. Favorite genre to read? Anything Dark, Gothic, Horror, Paranormal, Fantasy, Mystery, filled with a lot of plot twists and fast-paced action/adventure. Yes, that's why I write Urban Fantasy.
11. Fiction hero you would run off with. Oz, the Great and Powerful!
12. Favorite books you can read over and over. The classics, Poe, Bronte, Dickens….
A Writer’s Life:
13. OCD plotter or free range pantser? Pantser on steroids.
14. Which is easier, the synopsis or the book? ALWAYS the book.
15. Live to write or write to live? Day job? Retired teacher.
16. First publishing rejection (and getting back on that horse). 30 years ago. Got back on the horse a few years ago.
17. First person you call when you get a sale.My FB peeps. 18. Biggest hurdle to getting words on the page and how you overcome it. Words on the page are not a problem. Revision, where the magic happens, is much more difficult.
19. What’s on your desk? Isis, a statue given to me by my girlfriends in my critique group.
20. When can we get your next book and what’s it all about? My next book is Illuminati: The Tree of Life. I am still writing it, so I'm not sure when it'll be out.
And here’s and extra treat - An up close and personal glimpse of Luc Vargas in this mini In The Name of Love Character Quiz:
© Luc, you’re rich, worldly and GQ gorgeous. Why are you still single?
Luc: The thought of watching the woman I love grow old and die while I stayed the same is too painful.
© What type of woman are you instinctively drawn to?
Luc: Strong, brave and yet somehow vulnerable.
© What’s an absolute deal breaker in a relationship?
Luc: Getting too attached to a mortal.
© Who made the first move in this relationship, and what was it?
Luc: Nalini did. She sliced open my chest with a dagger.
© The minx. What would she have to change to make this relationship work?
Luc: Her family affiliation.
© If you could breech that impossible barrier, what are you most looking forward to as a couple?
Luc: Not spending eternity alone.
© What could stand in your way?
Luc: My darkest enemies, and my most beloved family members.
Illuminati: The Book of Life By Elizabeth Alsobrooks Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Ljluka Vargas, immortal prince and the cool-headed enforcer for the Vargas Dynasty, must go up against his most intriguing enemy, the mysterious Nalini. She intends to beat him to the secret archaeological site of The Book of Life which contains the genetic secrets of their ancient ancestors.
In order to escape the cruel domination of her family and gain freedom for her mother, Nalini assumes the role of assassin. In her rival, the sleek and deadly Luc, she finds a different kind of danger. She’s supposed to eliminate him, but that would foil destiny’s plan for them to be together.
It’s a race from power-hungry D.C. cabinet rooms through the secret realms of the Vatican, from cloud forests and desert sands to the caverns of the Underworld as mankind hangs in the balance. For whoever possesses the Book of Life has the potential to rule the world, offering or denying immortality to the human race.
Now that her children have flown from the nest, Elizabeth lives with her two new babies (AKA Maltese) and husband, Bobby, at the foot of the beautiful Catalina Mountain Range in Oro Valley, AZ.
She loves to hike the mountain trails, ride her bike on the miles of walk/bike paths, sit on her patio sipping coffee and reading or brainstorming plots and enjoying the grandeur of her breathtaking mountain views.
Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
For an added surprise, follow Elizabeth to her blog for a special giveaway!!!
This first book in a series is the perfect vehicle for her writing style – a smart adventure/romance she calls Urban Fantasy Reinvented. Strong, relatable characters walk a tight-rope of ancient legends and modern day intrigues, blending action a la Indiana Jones/Lara Croft with the mysteries of a Dan Brownesque mythology, and emotional family pathos. These folks could have their own reality show: Affairs of the Rich and Immortal! Well drawn characters lead the reader along a daring chase that leaves plenty of room for series expansion. My favorite – the eloquently fawning servant Hassidim. I need a Hassidim. I want a Hassidim. And then, of course, there’s the hunky brother, Andrew . . . but that, I’m told, is another story.
Getting to know Elizabeth:1. Party dress or blue jeans? Skorts! I live in AZ.
2. Night owl or early bird? Hoot, for sure!
3. Broadway or museum? Museum…though I loved Phantom of the Opera, both on Broadway and in Vegas.
4. Five words you use to describe yourself. Eclectic. Easily bored. Curious. Confident. Loyal.
5. Favorite books from childhood. Fairy Tales.
6. Three favorite movies. Stargate, Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, and Tomb Raider (I can't count).
7. What’s on your Bucket List? Going to Italy, New Zealand, Egypt and Hawaii. Have Bobby gourmet cook!
8. Something quirky about you that no one knows (we won’t tell anyone!) I do Tarot readings.
The Written word:
9. What type of fiction heroine would you be? Jane Eyre or Lara Croft? Definitely Lara Croft. If I were Jane Eyre, I'd be a serial killer--though I LOVE that novel and wrote my first college English paper about the archetypes in Jane Eyre.
10. Favorite genre to read? Anything Dark, Gothic, Horror, Paranormal, Fantasy, Mystery, filled with a lot of plot twists and fast-paced action/adventure. Yes, that's why I write Urban Fantasy.
11. Fiction hero you would run off with. Oz, the Great and Powerful!
12. Favorite books you can read over and over. The classics, Poe, Bronte, Dickens….
A Writer’s Life:
13. OCD plotter or free range pantser? Pantser on steroids.
14. Which is easier, the synopsis or the book? ALWAYS the book.
15. Live to write or write to live? Day job? Retired teacher.
16. First publishing rejection (and getting back on that horse). 30 years ago. Got back on the horse a few years ago.
17. First person you call when you get a sale.My FB peeps. 18. Biggest hurdle to getting words on the page and how you overcome it. Words on the page are not a problem. Revision, where the magic happens, is much more difficult.
19. What’s on your desk? Isis, a statue given to me by my girlfriends in my critique group.
20. When can we get your next book and what’s it all about? My next book is Illuminati: The Tree of Life. I am still writing it, so I'm not sure when it'll be out.
And here’s and extra treat - An up close and personal glimpse of Luc Vargas in this mini In The Name of Love Character Quiz:
© Luc, you’re rich, worldly and GQ gorgeous. Why are you still single?
Luc: The thought of watching the woman I love grow old and die while I stayed the same is too painful.
© What type of woman are you instinctively drawn to?
Luc: Strong, brave and yet somehow vulnerable.
© What’s an absolute deal breaker in a relationship?
Luc: Getting too attached to a mortal.
© Who made the first move in this relationship, and what was it?
Luc: Nalini did. She sliced open my chest with a dagger.
© The minx. What would she have to change to make this relationship work?
Luc: Her family affiliation.
© If you could breech that impossible barrier, what are you most looking forward to as a couple?
Luc: Not spending eternity alone.
© What could stand in your way?
Luc: My darkest enemies, and my most beloved family members.
Illuminati: The Book of Life By Elizabeth Alsobrooks AmazonBarnes & Noble
Ljluka Vargas, immortal prince and the cool-headed enforcer for the Vargas Dynasty, must go up against his most intriguing enemy, the mysterious Nalini. She intends to beat him to the secret archaeological site of The Book of Life which contains the genetic secrets of their ancient ancestors.
In order to escape the cruel domination of her family and gain freedom for her mother, Nalini assumes the role of assassin. In her rival, the sleek and deadly Luc, she finds a different kind of danger. She’s supposed to eliminate him, but that would foil destiny’s plan for them to be together.
It’s a race from power-hungry D.C. cabinet rooms through the secret realms of the Vatican, from cloud forests and desert sands to the caverns of the Underworld as mankind hangs in the balance. For whoever possesses the Book of Life has the potential to rule the world, offering or denying immortality to the human race.
Now that her children have flown from the nest, Elizabeth lives with her two new babies (AKA Maltese) and husband, Bobby, at the foot of the beautiful Catalina Mountain Range in Oro Valley, AZ. She loves to hike the mountain trails, ride her bike on the miles of walk/bike paths, sit on her patio sipping coffee and reading or brainstorming plots and enjoying the grandeur of her breathtaking mountain views.
Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
For an added surprise, follow Elizabeth to her blog for a special giveaway!!!
