Sarah Ballance's Blog, page 27
September 18, 2013
Tracy March: Wardrobe Malfunctions – Oh my! (Tempted in the Tropics Blog Tour and #Giveaway)
In addition to the $100 tour-wide giveaway, Tracy is giving away a beautiful charm bracelet (pictured below, US addresses only). For a chance to win it, be sure to leave a comment answering Tracy’s question below.
Tracy March: Wardrobe Malfunctions – Oh My!
Oh, the dreaded wardrobe malfunction! There are the not-as-humiliating little ones like a gaping hole in your stockings with a run the length of your leg, or the open zipper on your jeans that reveals your lacy red panties. Then there are epic ones like Anne Hathaway’s recent, shall we say, lack of underwear episode when she attempted to get out of a limo in a dress that was slit too high. And Janet Jackson’s epic Super Bowl nip-slip.
It’s embarrassing enough to have a wardrobe malfunction in public, especially since most people’s phones are now cameras and Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are only a click away. But what if a dreaded malfunction happened in front of a guy you have the super-sized hots for? Super embarrassing! In Tempted in the Tropics, pastry chef Paige Ellerbee finds herself in idyllic St. Lucia with sexy doctor Lane Anderson with whom she’s been feuding in her hometown of Maple Creek. But the sultry island heat between them has them considering putting their differences on the back burner. Could a wardrobe malfunction lead to a romantic fling?
After getting her footing, Paige faced Lane. She tipped her head back beneath the cascading waterfall and ran her hands through her loose hair. The scene was like something from a glossy travel brochure where an irresistible yet unobtainable bikini-clad model seduced you into booking the most expensive vacation ever, hoping you’d possibly catch a glimpse of her while you were on your trip.
Lane couldn’t fight his reaction to seeing Paige standing beneath the frothy flow. He took a deep breath and willed himself to stop reacting like a hormone-drunk teenager. She was definitely testing his self-control.
He stood riveted as the rushing water unexpectedly loosened the back tie of Paige’s bikini top. With her arms still raised, the strings fell to her sides, yet the tie around the back of her neck stayed secure. She seemed unaware as, through a glaze of glistening water, he saw the perfect, supple curves of her breasts peek below the loose fabric. A battle raged inside him. He should look away or warn her. Surely she didn’t know what was happening and she’d no doubt be embarrassed. But the pure male parts of him begged him to keep quiet.
“Paige,” he called, loudly enough for her to hear him above the cascade.
A split second later she shrieked, cupped her hands over her breasts, and jumped from beneath the waterfall, nearly losing her balance on the rocky surface of the pool. Lane steadied her.
She squeezed her eyes closed. “Please tell me you didn’t see my boobs.”
Lane tried not to laugh. “Did you just say boobs?”
She popped open her eyes. “Boobs, breasts, mammary glands…whatever the hell you doctors call them. Please tell me mine weren’t out there.”
“Turn around. I’ll tie you back up, even though that sounds a little kinky.”
She turned. “Stop teasing me—and avoiding the question. Tell me what you saw.”
He got to work on the tie. After it was secured and she’d fussed over straightening the triangles in front, she faced him.
“A man never peeks and tells.” He smiled slyly.
She slapped her hand over her mouth. “Oh crap. You did see them.” Her words were muffled, but he understood her just fine. She looked up at him, pleading with those big, golden-brown eyes.
“I liked what I saw,” he said. “But it wasn’t anything too private.”
She lowered her eyebrows.
He reached out and gently squeezed her shoulder. “I promise.”
Seeming somewhat satisfied, she lowered her hand from her mouth, but she kept biting her bottom lip. Thanks to her, he’d seen plenty of stimulating sights today, but that sexy lip-biting was what finally got him.
“Do we have a truce or not?” he asked.
She nodded. “You did save me from flashing my boobs to all of St. Lucia.”
He was the only one around, but he wasn’t going to argue. “So we can kiss and make up?” The cliché was out of his mouth before he even thought about its implications. Now he was the one in an awkward position. His pulse raced as he waited for her reaction.
She cocked her head and grinned slyly. “We can kiss…”
Ah, saved by the swoony doctor! What about you? Have you ever had an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction? Dish!
Tempted in the TropicsThe only thing they agree on is the sultry heat between them
Nothing’s more important to Paige Ellerbee than her struggling bakery, Sweet Bee’s. When Lane Anderson, the temporary new doctor hot enough to rival McDreamy, moves in next door, though, she’s sure things are looking up. Until he threatens her business in their first conversation.
Lane just wants to practice medicine responsibly—not argue with the flighty bakery owner next door. But when he finds himself traveling down to the Caribbean to play guitar for Paige’s best friend’s wedding, suddenly the sight of the blonde in a bikini eclipses the fact they can’t agree on anything. And as their vacation romance grows, his reservations about starting something after getting burned by love are washed away like sand on the beach.
But once Paige and Lane land back home, will these polar opposites be able to forgive their feud and find lasting love?
About Tracy MarchAward-winning author Tracy March writes romantic thrillers influenced by her career in the pharmaceutical field, and her interest in science and politics. She also writes lighthearted romances inspired by her real-life happily ever after.
Always up for travel and adventure, Tracy has flown in a stunt plane, snowmobiled on the Continental Divide, ziplined in the Swiss Alps, and been chased by a bull in the mountains of St. Lucia. She loves Nationals baseball, Saturday date nights, and Dairy Queen Blizzards—and rarely goes a day without Diet Coke and Cheez-Its.
Tracy lives in Yorktown, Virginia, with her superhero husband who works for NASA. They recently spent two years living in Washington D.C., and enjoy visiting often—especially when the Nats are in town.
Find her @ Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
GiveawayHead over to the rafflecopter to enter the $100 giveaway, but don’t go yet! For a chance to win this beautiful bracelet, please leave a comment answering the question Tracy posed above. I will contact the winner for shipping information. (US addresses only, please).
September 17, 2013
Alan Power’s “The Princess Diana Conspiracy”
Join Alan Power, author of the true crime/royalty book, The Princess Diana Conspiracy, as he tours the blogosphere August 29 – September 27, 2013 on his first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book!
ABOUT THE PRINCESS DIANA CONSPIRACYThe Princess Diana Conspiracy is primarily a detailed investigation into the brutal murder of Diana, Princess of Wales but British democracy is also questioned. Evidence is presented that MI6 perverted the course of justice and that they murder people but also that Diana was a target “within their code”. The police are proven to have conspired, “to get their stories straight” at the inquest and there is also further disturbing evidence of other peoples’ murders that were associated with this brutal crime. We begin with a review of the details surrounding Diana’s murder and illustrate many coincidental happenings both during Diana’s life and thereafter (the plane that Richard Tomlinson, SAS/MI6 whistle-blower, was due to return to Geneva on, Swissair Flight 111 from New York where he was booked to give evidence on US television, blew up mid-air killing 227 people; the CIA had returned him on an earlier flight. Princess Caroline of Brunswick, whom George IV was ordered to marry, was taken ill on the eve of George’s coronation and died three weeks later; she claimed she had been poisoned. Her body was sent quickly back to Germany; there is clear precedence of such family behaviour). We are shown what Diana was required to tolerate and see her royal world. We then migrate onto describing how this attack took place and show, again, the amazing coincidences that made the timing of this act serendipitous to the royals e.g. Diana was murdered the very day after her decree absolute came through when she would have been free to marry Dodi Fayed. We delve deeply into the workings and testimony of the major players but especially the authorities (police and MI6) then show an enormous amount of corruption, sidestepping, (I am required to say untruths, not lies) and ridiculous testimony that no sane person could possibly accept; the court did not see fit to criticise either MI6 or the police when these revelations occurred. Please also take note of the various points I have disclosed, not previously discovered, of major comments during evidence that prove these “untruths” and the wholesale corruption. The police did not investigate the abuse of Diana prior to Paris and evidence is produced that MI6 were watching and following her around for years before the murder took place; the police did nothing and the policeman responsible for this did nothing to protect Diana either although it was supposedly his job; he couldn’t explain why. James Andanson, who was the owner of a white Fiat Uno, was found murdered with two bullet holes in his head. He had been bragging that he was in the tunnel when Diana was murdered. His good friend and well known French crime writer Frederic Dard “died” five weeks after Andanson. It is proven that he and Andanson had been engaged in writing a book together about Diana’s murder. It goes on and on. Add to this evidence that the decision to embalm Diana was taken at a “Diplomatic level” and that the paparazzi, who were incarcerated and blamed for the whole event, were prevented from attending court through “Political intervention” and the soul heads further and further into the abyss. If the paparazzi had persuaded the jury that they were first to the tunnel (Which I show they were) then this alone was proof of murder. There really is too much to tell you all during such a brief overview but the comment from one literary agent who read the book before my current agent took over was that he often felt he needed to stop frequently and come up for air. I thought that is what I was supposed to achieve; reveal the truth and let you, the people decide whether you will permit this evil act to go unpunished.
ABOUT ALAN POWER
The author is married to Sally and has enjoyed a variety of interests including being a drama student, an official candidate of the Conservative party and owning his own company but this is his first journey into the world of writing. His hobbies are flying, pistol shooting, scuba diving and he is a past rugby football player. He has written another book about Diana that will be published later and has ideas for other subjects that will also follow. When his company suffered the ravages of internal fraud with no joy from the police due to lack of evidence and a degree of police indifference, his life changed irrevocably but now he had the time to write. When Diana was murdered Alan remembers feeling rage that such a beautiful and natural person as Diana could be used, abused and so cruelly discarded just to serve the monarchy’s needs. He considered the probability that this was a murder of convenience and monarchical survival so he began an extensive investigation into Diana’s death. Although initially unsure he would be up to this task, he persevered and now offers evidence that this murder was not conducted by rogue MI6 officers, considered as possible during the inquests, but by serving MI6 officers and with the use of military aid. This project began in 2003 and despite many attempts by others to prevent, or delay, the book’s release Alan now brings you his findings. There is first an overview of the background to this brutal act and a selection of relevant events prior to the inquests with lateral thought being applied to four million words of cross referenced inquest evidence. He delivers the most compelling and damming evidence and says that it’s important for justice to prevail if Britain still wishes to be considered a democracy.
The Princess Diana Conspiracy Book Publicity Tour Schedule
Monday, September 2 – Book featured at splashesofjoy
Tuesday, September 3 – Guest blogging at Bookingly Yours
Wednesday, September 4 – Book featured at Margay Leah Justice
Thursday, September 5 – Guest blogging at My Devotional Thoughts
Friday, September 6 – Book reviewed at Bookingly Yours
Friday, September 6 – Book featured at Freda’s Voice
Monday, September 9 – Book reviewed at splashesofjoy
Tuesday, September 10 – 1st chapter reveal at Authors and Readers Book Corner
Thursday, September 12 – Book review and 1st chapter reveal at Why Not? Because I Said So
Friday, September 13 – 1st chapter reveal at Psychotic State
Monday, September 16- Book reviewed at Psychotic State
Wednesday, September 18 – Book reviewed at Self Taught Cook
Wednesday, September 18 – 1st chapter reveal at Sarah Ballance
Thursday, September 19 – Interviewed at Review From Here
Monday, September 23 – Review, Guest blogging, and 1st chapter reveal at Jersey Girl Book Reviews
Tuesday, September 24 -Book reviewed at My Cozie Corner
Wednesday, September 25 – Book review and Guest blogging at The True Book Addict
Thursday, September 26 – Interviewed at Literal Exposure
————————————————————–
September 16, 2013
$50 Book Blast #Giveaway: Gallagher’s Choice by MK McClintock
Gallagher’s Choice
Synopsis
He finally had a family to call his own.
She now knew what it meant to risk it all.
Together they had a chance to find peace at last.
Eliza Gallagher is tough, resilient, and rides a horse like she was born in the saddle. All necessary qualities for someone who runs a cattle ranch. She had more to avenge than any of them and she was counting on those skills to finally find the justice they all sought — until she realized it could cost her everything and everyone she loved.
Ramsey Hunter finally knew what it was to have a family and what it took to keep that family together. He knew coming back wouldn’t be easy, but he never imagined what he would have to risk to keep it.
Eliza got him home; now Ramsey has to do whatever it takes to save her life and help bring peace to Hawk’s Peak.
Print * Kindle * Nook * AllRomance
Author MK McClintock
MK McClintock published her first novel, Gallagher’s Pride, in July 2012, and followed one month later with the release of her second book in the same series, Gallagher’s Hope. Her third novel, Alaina Claiborne, was published in January 2013. Gallagher’s Choice is the third book in her Montana Gallagher Series. McClintock lives and writes in Montana.
McClintock is a member of Romance Writers of America, Montana Romance Writers, and Women Writing the West.
Website * Blog * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads * YouTube
Book Trailer
BookBlast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 10/6/13 - Click here to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
September 15, 2013
Spotlight: “Tara’s Cross” by G.J. Bachmann – A 9/11 Memoir ($25 #Giveaway)
Join G.J. Bachmann, author of the 9/11 Memoir, Tara’s Cross, as he tours the blogosphere September 9 – September 20 on his first Book Blast with Pump Up Your Book! G.J. will be giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card and 10 copies of the book in ebook format! To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form on the participating blogs below and good luck! If you would like to host G.J., please email Tracee at tgleichner (at) gmail.com.
ABOUT TARA’S CROSSRescuers pulled George Bachmann, a New York City firefighter from Ten House, from beneath the rubble of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001. He survived the terrorist attacks, but somehow, his memory had been temporarily left behind. As Bachmann recuperated, he knew he needed to remember what had happened and he needed to confront his dreams, which was not an easy task. His mind was privy to an unknown piece of history that drove him to the brink.
In this memoir, Tara’s Cross, Bachmann describes the unimaginable events at Ground Zero. He tells not only of his physical recovery, but also shares the return of his memory through a series of dreams. He reveals the details of the magnificent sighting on West Street where he witnessed the two highest ranking NYC officers saluting each other at the foot of the North Tower before they perished on 9/11.
A tale of survival and salvation, Tara’s Cross is a testament to how the mind and soul heal themselves and how the spirits of the honored dead guide them home. This love story, set against the backdrop of the attacks on the World Trade Center, is also one of courage and recovery.
Purchase your copy:
ABOUT G.J. BACHMANN
G.J. Bachmann worked more than twenty-seven years as a New York City firefighter and survived the events of 9/11. He was awarded the World Trade Center Double Star Rescue/Recovery Citation. Bachmann and his wife Annie live in Park Slope, Brooklyn, New York, with their daughter Tara Bridget.
Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash!
Terms & Conditions:
By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.
One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive one $25 Amazon Gift Certificate or Paypal Cash.
This giveaway begins September 9 – September 20.
Winners will be contacted via email on Saturday September 21, 2013.
Winner has 48 hours to reply.
Good luck everyone!
ENTER TO WIN!
Click here to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
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September 14, 2013
Sept.15.2013 #SnippetSunday: Her Wicked Sin (Entangled Scandalous) #WeWriWa
HER WICKED SIN (Sins of Salem #1) is now available! If you enjoy the following excerpt, click over to Entangled to read much more of this scene.
He removed his hands from her shoulders whereupon they rested and gently worked free the fasteners of her outer layers. “Shall I help you with your coat?”
Lydia nodded before she lost the nerve, for the knot in her stomach surely sensed more than she. Henry was a most handsome man—rakish in appearance, but with a gentleman’s charm—and certainly virile as she could attest from her observations of the night prior. The mere thought of his fulfillment left her hot and weak, though her body responded with strength and a deep ache.
His russet eyes had darkened, though she blamed not the waning light of day. The fire roared, tending well the pottage and casting bountiful, dancing coloration in the modest room. And there, as if the most routine of activities, stood a man—her husband—with his strong, supple fingers removing her coats as if he had been born to do that very thing.
Want more? You’ll find the continuation of this scene at Entangled Publishing!
Want the book? Find it @ Entangled | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes | Goodreads
Review Snippets
“A thrilling romantic historical that deals with the Salem witch trials in a way that’s never been done before. Amazing!” - NY Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken (cover quote)
“Sarah Ballance has done an exceptional job with this release. The story is well built, plot flows effortlessly and the language is true to the era. An exciting read, start to finish! Definitely a must read!” – Joe Breedon via Goodreads
“This was wonderfully written and I just feel in love with the characters and the story.” – Crystal via Goodreads
“I loved and adored this book! Historicals are tricky because I often find that the characters use modern language and have modern opinions and feelings. NOT true here. The author has clearly researched the period and uses language that the people of the time would have used.” - Negar Arvanaghi via Goodreads
“This story is a page turner. There was one particular incident I never saw coming when it happened I was like OMG it can’t be. This is a must read for lovers of historical romance.” - Nadene via Goodreads
“This book was so good! … The relationship between the two characters is sensual and has twists that made me gasp. … I would definitely recommend this book and would read it again in a heartbeat.” - Darcus Murray via Goodreads
Click here for more awesome snippets from Weekend Writing Warriors!
Her Wicked Sin | blurb
SALEM, MA 1692
On a moonless night, he rides into the winter forest on his beast as black as midnight….
Dashing stranger, Henry Dunham, comes to Salem on a mysterious errand, but is thrown from his horse in the dead of night and rescued by the local Puritan midwife, Lydia Colson.
Haunted by her past, Lydia is running from her own dark secrets, avoiding intrusive questions by pretending her dead husband is simply…away. But when she and Henry are caught in a compromising situation, one punishable by Puritan law, he saves her from scandal by claiming to be her errant spouse…and claiming her bed.
Forced to fake a marriage, Lydia and Henry find their passion overwhelming and their vows a little too real. As their lies become truths, a witch hunt closes in on Lydia, threatening not only their burgeoning love, but her life.
Title: HER WICKED SIN (Sins of Salem #1)
Author: Sarah Ballance
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release: September 9, 2013
ISBN 13: 9781622662494
HER WICKED SIN is available from: Entangled Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and Kobo. Click here to add to Goodreads or here for reviews.
September 13, 2013
$50 Book Blast #Giveaway: “For Nick” by Taylor Dean
For Nick
What would you do for love?
Zachary Drake had love in his life—and tragically lost it. He knows it won’t come his way again. Andie Parker would do anything for the love of her life.
Even marry a total stranger.
In spite of the unorthodox manner in which Zach and Andie come together, there is no denying that things are unexpectedly good between them, taking them both by surprise.
However, when secrets come between them—and trust does not—Andie soon finds herself vowing to never make the same mistake again. But, she’d do it again in a heartbeat and she knows it. She’d marry a hundred strangers if it helped Nick. She’d do anything for Nick . . . anything.
Praise for For Nick
This is another winner by Taylor Dean! It only took me a little over a day to read this book because it’s such a page turner! What would you do to save the one you love most in the world? Marry a stranger? That’s exactly what Andie has to do for the love of her life Nick. This story is so sweet and wonderfully written. It’s a beautiful story of love and sacrifice. It takes you on an emotional roller coaster! Absolutely worth the read!
~Christy of Christy’s Cozy Corners
I love this book!! It seemed like a happy ending early on but since there was a lot of book left, I realized that something big was going to happen. Zach and Andie are adorable together and I loved watching their relationship develop into something real. But Nick was always looming in the background and definitely isn’t a relationship Andie is going to let go of. I’m not giving any spoilers with this so you’ll have to read this book yourself to find out who Nick is and why Andie won’t let that relationship go. I cried a lot towards the end. If you need a good cry, grab some tissues and curl up with this book!
~Melanie of Mel’s Shelves
Hang onto your emotions with this story, because they will be running all over the place, and you don’t want them to get away. One minute you’ll be sighing with joy, the next your mascara will be running down your face–you know, that kind of emotional meltdown type of book. I adored both Andie and Zach. They are so funny and cute together, and their ongoing alliteration game was right up my alley. The emotions throughout this book are extreme–no blah, mediocre feelings in this tale! No way! This is my 5th Taylor Dean book, and it’s hard to pick a favorite…but this has to be in the top 2 for the surprises it held.
~Charissa of Joy in the Moments
Author Taylor Dean
Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding that she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of romance in her line-up.
BookBlast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 9/29/13 - Click here to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
September 12, 2013
Paige Cuccaro: What’s in your Future? “Heaven and Hellsbane” Tour and $50 #Giveaway
Please welcome author Paige Cuccaro with a guest blog that’s deliciously perfect for Friday the 13th! Oh, and she has goodies. Read on!
Paige Cuccaro: What’s in your Future
In HEAVEN AND HELLSBANE, Emma Jane was born with the ability to feel other people’s emotions as if they were her own. Over the years she learned to use her gift and make a living as a Intuitive Consciousness Explore (a.k.a. psychic)
Of course in Emma Jane’s case she has the blood of an angel, as well as his power, running through her veins to help her read people. Most of us don’t have that little added perk. But according to a lot of people we’re still more than capable of divining the future with the help of a few simple tools.
Tarot Cards
Most people have heard of the colorful cards, some of you probably own a deck. Some people say you can’t buy your own set. They have to be gifted to you. Others say it doesn’t really matter. Either way, tarot cards are made up of four suits. Each of these suits has cards numbering from ace to ten and four face cards for a total of 14 cards. In addition, the tarot is distinguished by a separate 21-card trump suit and a single card known as the Fool. Each card has a pictogram and title that represents a specific concept. The belief is that whatever cards are dealt to the participant will be reflective of some aspect of their current, past and future life.
Runes
Long ago, according to the Norse legend, Odin created the Runes as a gift to mankind. These sacred symbols were originally carved into stone. Over the centuries, they evolved into a collection of sixteen letters, each with a metaphorical and divinatory meaning. The idea is that the selections made within the runes drawn aren’t random, but choices made by your subconscious mind. Some believe that they’re answers provided by the divine to confirm what we already know in our hearts.
Pendulum Divination
The pendulum is the easiest method of divination. Using a simple weight, like a crystal, on a string or chain, it allows you to divine Yes or No answers.
Palmistry or Chiromancy
Otherwise known as Palm reading, is practiced all over the world. It has its roots in Indian astrology and Roma fortune-telling. The objective is to evaluate a person’s character or future by studying the lines and creases in the palm of their hand.
Scrying
I’m talking, crystal balls, special mirrors, or many other reflective, translucent, or luminescent mediums. Crystals, stones, glass, mirrors, water, fire, or smoke, scrying is used to divine the past, present, or future. The visions that come when the practitioner stares into the media are thought to come from gods, spirits, devils, the psychic mind, whatever. It depends on what you believe.
Ouija board
The Ouija board also known as a spirit board or talking board, is a flat board marked with the letters of the alphabet, the numbers 0-9, the words “yes”, “no”, “hello” (occasionally), and “goodbye”, along with various symbols and graphics. Most boards come with a movable indicator or a “planchette” used to answer questions that its players ask. In popular culture (all the rage in the 1920s), these boards are considered to be a “spiritual gateway” used to contact the dead.
However you do it, many believe knowing the future is simply a matter of having the right tools and faith. Or, if you’re like Emma Jane, a little bit of angelic blood to tap into divine power.
Just in case you’re not a nephilim, I’m running a contest giving away books, Amazon gift cards and even a handmade HELLSBANE Ouija board. If you have the time, fill out the rafflecopter for a chance to win!
Heaven and HellsbaneSomeone’s killing angels and turning the half human, half angel illorum warriors against their angelic supporters. If the supernatural baddy behind the attacks isn’t stopped soon, Heaven itself could fall victim. The Council of Seven has called in the best they’ve got to find the killers, and no one’s more surprised than Emma Jane Hellsbane when it’s her phone that rings.
But when her own angelic mentor—and off-limits hottie—Eli is targeted, Emma takes it personally. With Emma hot on the trail of the growing army of assassins, though, hackles start to raise around her. Everyone wants to know if she’s in it to protect all angels or just one in particular. The Council has their suspicions…and so does Emma’s boyfriend.
Now Emma isn’t just fighting off demons, rogue nephilim, and Fallen angels, but she’s defending her honor as well. The problem is even Emma Jane isn’t sure of her motives. One thing she does know: if she doesn’t figure out the killers’ identities soon, she may not live long enough to know what, or who, she really wants.
It’s all in a day’s work as Heaven’s ultimate bounty hunter.
Heaven and Hellsbane | Excerpt
I used to think feeling others’ emotions was some sort of freakish gift. I’d even turned it into a pretty successful moneymaker as an Intuitive Consciousness Explorer—otherwise known as a psychic. I knew now it was just one of the many quirky side effects of being the bastard offspring of an angel. Yay me.
Dan turned his gaze back to Eli. He couldn’t let it go. “This is a date, man. Private time. But you knew that, didn’t you? You knew we’d been planning this for the past week. You knew the last time we tried this, too. And the time before that.”
“Emma forfeited her private time when she picked up that sword,” Eli said. “She’s a warrior for our Father now. She’s never off duty.”
“Bullshit,” Dan said, then glanced around and lowered his voice. “She’d have private time—time alone with me—if you’d stay away long enough for her to take a breath.”
I followed Dan’s gaze, scanning the faces at the nearby tables, worried we were drawing attention. No one looked our way. No one had even noticed Eli’s sudden arrival. But humans weren’t meant to notice the comings and goings of angels. As beautiful as they were, angels were like extras in a movie, part of the background and easily overlooked.
“C’mon, Dan,” I said. “You know Eli’s not doing it on purpose.”
Dan glowered at me, frustration still tight across his face. “You sure about that?”
“Yes,” I said, but I couldn’t blame him for doubting it. Eli had been a near constant presence in my life since the moment I met him a year ago. He’d been the magister of a dear friend, an illorum like me, Tommy Saint James. It was Tommy who’d brought me to him, introduced us. But even Tommy had been concerned about Eli and me working together.
And with good reason.
Eli was everything angels were supposed to be: tall, broad shouldered, with a strong, athletic build. He had the looks that could steal a woman’s breath, keep her speechless for seconds. His silky black hair hung in soft waves over his forehead, enhancing his startlingly pale cloud-blue eyes.
But I’d gotten used to his looks a long time ago. It was the man inside the pretty wrapping that played havoc with my good sense. He was my friend and so much more. I trusted him with my life. But there was nothing romantic between us.
There couldn’t be.
I reached across the table to touch Dan’s arm. “This is my life. It sucks. Believe me, I know. But I don’t have a choice, and neither does Eli. If it were up to me, nothing would get in the way of spending time with you. You believe that, right?”
Dan’s warm maple-brown eyes met mine, his anger softening at the corners. “Yeah. Of course I believe you. But him…?”
About Paige CuccaroWriting was never a foregone conclusion for me. I once had dreams of being a psychologist, a pediatrician, a school teacher, a photojournalist, a bartender, and/or an EMT. And then I met my husband and my world came into focus. Being wife and mother are my highest priorities and greatest joy. But escaping to the fanciful, sexy worlds twirling through my mind is an absolute necessity. Putting those worlds, and the cornucopia of characters that people them, on paper is just plain fun.
Paige lives in Ohio, with her husband, and three daughters. When she’s not writing she can be found doing the mom thing with a book in one hand and a notepad and pen in the other. Ideas come without warning and the best way to stimulate your imagination is to enjoy the imagination of someone else.
Find her @ Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Website | Blog
GiveawayHead on over to the rafflecopter entry form for a chance to win one of these great prizes!
The grand a $50 Amazon gift card a print copy of each of the first two books (Hellsbane (book1) Heaven and Hellsbane (book2) )and an electronic copy of the prequel Commencement.
Second prize a print copy of each of the first two books and a Hellsbane Ouija board. (pictured)
Third prize electronic copy of the first two books and the prequel.
September 11, 2013
Natalie Damschroder’s “Heavy Metal” – Author Interview and #Giveaway
Heavy MetalThe world is not what Riley Kordek imagined. On the run from those who’ve targeted her, all Riley wants is a chance to figure out her new ability to bend metal’s energy. When a hot guy who knows more than he should helps her escape her attackers, she thinks she might’ve found someone who can lead her to the answers she needs.
Three years ago, Sam Remington walked away from his employer and the woman he loved, and now, all he’s looking to do is fill the gaping hole left behind. Except, when Sam takes Riley to the Society for Goddess Education and Defense, the stakes rise beyond what either of them could have imagined.
After being alone for so long, falling for Sam would be far too easy—and far too painful, once his old flame calls needing his help. Worse, Riley uncovers a plot with disastrous ramifications not only for herself, but for Sam and the people he loves—and potentially every goddess in the country.
Find it @ Amazon | BN | Powell’s Books | iTunes
Natalie Damschroder’s Interview
Welcome, Natalie, and congratulations on your new release, HEAVY METAL! What’s your absolute favorite thing about this book?
Thanks so much for having me today, Sarah!
My absolutely favorite thing about this book is the cover. LOL Liz Pelletier captured the very essence of the story in subtle ways. Sam Remington is the kind of hero who would take on any pain so someone else didn’t have to feel it—and he does, even if it might cost him the one thing he wants most. (So as far as the inside of the book goes, that’s my favorite thing. 
)
THE COVER IS AMAZEBALLS! And, well, Sam sounds like he’s the perfect guy to get behind it. Your heroine, Riley, can bend metal. How did the hero react the first time he witnessed this skill?
Sam’s the son of a goddess and has worked for a goddess and in the goddess community for years, so he knows more about Riley’s ability than she does. The first time he sees her use it, he’s not really surprised. Riley, though, never believed goddesses were real. Her family did her a great disservice in her upbringing, and then she was orphaned before her abilities manifested. So she’s a complete mess!
I love the way you’ve set them up–it’s absolutely delicious! What might readers be surprised to learn about the plot or characters of Heavy Metal?
So far, surprise has come from those who didn’t read the first book in the trilogy, Under the Moon, when they found Heavy Metal to stand well enough on its own that they didn’t have to. That was a great relief! My editor gets all the credit, though, for making sure I struck that balance.
As a reader who wants to read ALL THE BOOKS but seldom has time to do so, I have to thank you and your editor for that. Let’s have some fun with the story. What’s the first sentence?
“The Society for Goddess Education and Defense is your go-to resource for learning about your heritage, preparing for the onset of your abilities, and building supportive relationships with your
fellow goddesses.”
—Sam Remington, promotional video, Society website
And my reader loves, if that has you hooked, the whole first chapter follows our interview. (Hey! No skipping down…you’ll get there soon enough, LOL!) Natalie, what’s your favorite line in the book?
She hadn’t expected to see Sam standing out there, half naked, fairly magnificent, and petting a damned cat with more gentleness than those big hands should have been capable of. Now she was all flustered and flushed. And maybe some more F words.
OMG I LOVE THAT! Gimme more. How about a brief excerpt?
“Jesus Christ, Sam!” she whispered fiercely. “What the hell?”
“Sorry.” His voice was a low rumble, perfect for the intimacy of late night and darkness. He took the milk from her and closed the fridge door. “Couldn’t sleep, huh?”
She made some kind of sound of agreement but couldn’t manage more than that because Sam was wearing those sweats again and nothing else. And he was close, the narrow space between the stove and the breakfast bar behind them seeming so much smaller than when the three of them were doing dishes. Probably because then he’d been wearing a shirt. With long sleeves. Now she could see every groove of every curving muscle in his arms, the wide, hard expanse of his chest, and when he turned away to get a saucepan from a bottom cupboard, the amazing strength in his back and shoulders. Just enough of his heat reached her to make her aware of the chill in the apartment and imagine him folding her into his long arms, warming her head to toe.
Okay, she wasn’t chilly anymore.
And, erm, neither am I. WOW. Which scene of Heavy Metal was most difficult for you to write? Why?
There were definitely sections of this book that were more difficult to get onto the page than others, but I can’t actually remember what they were. Kind of like childbirth!
Oh, the pain. Oh, the JOY! LOL. Which scene would you most like to experience for yourself? From whose POV?
Ooh, good question. I think the final confrontation between Riley and Sam after the black moment, and from Riley’s point of view because then I’d get to… well, not going to spoil it.
So now we’re all going to buy the book to find out what happens. Well played, my friend. Well played. What inspired the title of Heavy Metal?
One of the easiest titles I’ve ever come up with! The first book addressed the heroine’s power source, the full moon, so this one had to address Riley’s source, metal. Heavy Metal was kind of a no-brainer.
Totally perfect! Before we let you go, can you scoop us on your upcoming titles?
We’re finishing up Sunroper, the last book in the Goddesses Rising trilogy. That will come out in December 2013. I also have two romantic adventures coming out with Entangled Ignite in November and February, and in between I’m working on the next books in my Soul series.
Heavy Metal | The First Chapter
“The Society for Goddess Education and Defense is your go-to resource for learning about your heritage,
preparing for the onset of your abilities, and building supportive relationships with your fellow goddesses.”
—Sam Remington, promotional video, Society website
Riley’s sneakers crunched on gravel as she crossed the pitted lot in front of the squat, rundown bar just off a quiet road in Bridgeport, Connecticut. There was no sign over the door to tell her she was in the right place. Even if she was, her information wasn’t necessarily reliable. But she’d reached her limit even before her car had been stolen, and now all she wanted was a moment to sit down and decide her next move. What it was would depend on who stood behind the bar when she went inside.
The door creaked when she pushed it open and thudded solidly behind her after she stepped through. She shoved her hands in the pockets of her denim jacket and glanced around. The room was dim, hazy even though smoking had been banned in bars and restaurants years ago. The tables and chairs were mismatched, some wood, some metal frames and vinyl seats, even a few molded plastic. Most were empty at this late hour. Riley had wanted to be here earlier, when it would be more crowded and she could linger unobserved, but the car thing had made that impossible.
She made her way past a couple leaning close over a two-top, ignoring their beers in favor of making kissy-faces. She settled with her back to a corner and studied the other people in the place. Stalling. Postponing the moment when she found Sam Remington, or didn’t.
Three guys at the bar shouted at a replay of a European soccer match on the TV over their heads, groaning loudly when the goalkeeper made a diving save. At the other end of the battered expanse of oak, a grizzled old man held up two fingers at the bartender. He added some whiskey to the old guy’s glass, and when he spoke, his deep, slightly rough voice reached Riley easily.
“That’s your limit, Tedley.”
“I can count,” the old man groused, but he winked at the bartender and pulled a few crumpled bills from his pocket. A dimple flashed in the bartender’s cheek before he turned to deposit the money in the till.
Riley sagged into her chair, her eyelids stinging. She’d found him. Maybe he could help her, maybe not. But for the first time in months—hell, in years—she had a move to make. Half an ounce of control, or at least the illusion of it.
Sam looked a little different from the video she’d watched, oh, fifty-five times on the website for the Society for Goddess Education and Defense. His dark hair was longer, for one. Shaggier. It looked just as silky, though, when he shoved one side behind an ear. And his T-shirt hugged his chest and biceps much more lovingly than the tidy button-down he’d worn in the video. She wouldn’t have guessed he was so tall, either. At least six foot four. Her head would probably hit the center of his chest.
She swallowed and glanced away. The image that had flashed through her mind was definitely ill timed. No reason her head would ever have occasion to meet his chest. But if it did…
“What can I get you?”
Riley jerked her head up. In the few seconds she’d been fighting her thoughts, Sam had crossed the bar to her table. Why wasn’t there a waitress working so he didn’t have to leave the bar? Damn the assholes who’d taken her car and made her get here so late.
The soccer guys called goodbyes over their shoulders, and the couple followed them out. Sam waved and then rested his hands on his hips, waiting for her order. She cleared her throat, the sound loud in the now-quiet bar. The TV was off. Maybe she’d been lost in visualization longer than she’d thought. And there was that chest again, the hollow between his collarbones set off perfectly by the slight V-neck of his gray shirt.
“Uh, Coke, please.”
“Pepsi okay?”
“Yes,” she said even though she hated Pepsi, just so he’d walk away sooner. She needed time to think, to figure out how to approach him. She hadn’t practiced anything before now, afraid to hope a vague Facebook reference could lead her to the right place.
Traveling to Connecticut wasn’t a big deal, since she’d been on the move for what seemed like forever, but she didn’t want to expect too much and be flattened when she wound up in limbo once again.
So while Sam drew her soda from the tap, she tried to come up with an opening gambit. It wasn’t easy with her brain so fogged from fatigue. She’d been sleeping in her car as she traveled, not having enough money for a motel anymore. She’d walked a few miles to get to the bar, too, and while she wasn’t out of shape, it added to the toll of a stressful day after a very long string of stressful days. And it was well after one in the morning.
She took a deep breath and shook off the haze. She shouldn’t lose this opportunity. What if she didn’t get it again? So maybe just keep it simple. Hi. What do you know about goddesses?
No, that was stupid. She knew what he knew—it was all over the Society website. Brief mentions in news items and meeting agendas and press releases, plus that video about a new educational program, all added up to “this guy is connected.” But he wasn’t one of them. He couldn’t be—he was male. That was the only reason she was here.
Maybe it would be best to blurt it all out. I need your help. I’m all alone and crazy things are happening all around me, and everything I’ve been raised to believe has been flipped on its head. Goddesses don’t exist, but if that’s the truth, then I must be crazy.
Find it @ Amazon | BN | Powell’s Books | iTunes
About Natalie DamschroderNatalie J. Damschroder is an award-winning author of contemporary and paranormal romance—Love with a Shot of Adrenaline. She sold her first book in 1999, and 2013 will see the publication of her 14th novel. She grew up in Massachusetts and loves the New England Patriots more than anything. (Except her family. And writing and reading. And popcorn.)
When she’s not writing, revising, proofreading, or promoting her work, she does freelance editing and works part time as a chiropractic assistant. She and her husband have two daughters she’s dubbed “the anti-teenagers,” one of whom is also a novelist. (The other one prefers math. Smart kid. Practical.)
You can learn more about her and her books at:
Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Blog
Everybody Needs a Little Romance
www.everybodyneedsalittleromance.com
GiveawayYes, Natalie comes bearing gifts for a few lucky readers! Here’s what you can enter to win:
$25 gift card to Amazon or B&N (winner’s choice) AND a print or digital copy of “Under the Moon”
Print or digital copies of “Under the Moon” (winner’s choice)
To enter, please click here.
September 9, 2013
Author Mae Clair Talks “The Twelfth Sun” and Her Attraction to the Sea (#Giveaway)
Please welcome author Mae Clair as she introduces her new romantic suspense, TWELFTH SUN.
Mae Clair: An Attraction to the Sea
**Giveaway Alert**
From the time I was a kid, I’ve been enamored of old sailing vessels and nautical folklore. The eastern seaboard is a second home to me and I dream of someday living in a quaint coastal village. Beach settings inspire me, and I’m instantly intrigued by any snippet of maritime folklore I stumble across.
As a result, it seemed only natural to weave those elements into my romantic mystery, TWELFTH SUN.
Reagan Cassidy is just trying to do her uncle a favor when she agrees to meet his friend, a marine archaeologist, and a bid on a journal that once belonged to a passenger aboard the doomed nineteenth century schooner, Twelfth Sun. What she didn’t count on was finding a man ten years her junior with a cocky attitude, a PhD, and a way of shattering her reservations.
Dr. Elijah Cross thought it would be a simple matter to authenticate the journal for his friend Gavin Cassidy, but finds himself sucked into an elaborate scavenger hunt along with Gavin’s sexy niece, Reagan, and several oddball competitors. As the guest of Eric Sothern, a reclusive billionaire no one has ever seen, Elijah and the others are invited to lodge for a week at Sothern’s lavish seaside mansion.
He finds it hard to concentrate on marine artifacts with the alluring Reagan occupying his mind, a series of cryptic riddles to solve, and a saboteur intent on claiming the journal even if it means playing dirty to win. When the clues take a strangely personal turn and a series of mishaps occur, he and Reagan are left to wonder if anyone is really who they seem.
TWELFTH SUN was the equivalent of a writer’s playground for me. It allowed me to combine multiple story elements I love and weave them into a tale of escapist fun, including a smattering of nautical myths, superstition and folklore.
Do you have a favorite story of the sea, a legend or folktale that makes you yearn for old clipper ships or sprawling beaches? What about a favorite coastal spot that you never tire of visiting? I’m giving away a Kindle copy (winner’s choice) of TWELFTH SUN to one lucky commenter.
Twelfth Sun | Excerpt
Reagan glanced at her watch. She’d dragged herself from bed hours before any civilized person should be up, for the sole purpose of meeting Elijah Cross. The marine archeologist was already ten minutes late–not a brilliant way to begin a working relationship. She’d learned through firsthand experience many of her uncle’s friends were as unreliable as they were eccentric. Foolishly, she had hoped Dr. Cross wouldn’t fall into the same category.
Resigned to passing the time, she added hot water to her tea. From the corner of her eye she spied movement at the door of the cafe. A man stepped inside, shaking rain from his jacket. The door banged shut behind him, ensnaring her full attention. He wore a battered black fedora and worn jeans with scuffed dock shoes. There was something oddly familiar about him. He turned slightly and she caught his profile, realizing he was the man from room ten. Self-conscious, she looked away, hoping to sink through the floor. He spoke briefly with the hostess and then headed in her direction.
She tensed. What were the odds of encountering him now when she was scheduled to meet Dr. Cross, a highly-respected and, no doubt critical, academic? How would it look to her uncle’s friend if he walked in on a conversation revolving around naked men and the color of her undergarments?
Chagrined, she bowed her head over her teacup. Her hair spilled forward, concealing her face behind curtains of red-gold. With any luck he’d go away. With any luck, he’d leave her alone.
“Hi.”
Reagan raised her head fully convinced mischievous imps had tracked her to Shipwright Landing and were even now performing rituals of bad luck. “Hi.” She pressed her lips together. “I don’t mean to be rude, but I’m expecting someone.”
“Yeah, I know.” He grinned. “You’re Reagan Cassidy.”
She blinked. She’d given the hostess her name only because she was expecting Dr. Cross and neither had any idea what the other looked like. She certainly hadn’t expected the woman to share her name with any longhaired Lothario who asked for it. “The hostess told you.”
He nodded. Removing his hat by the crown, he dropped it on the table. “Some storm.” He shrugged out of his jacket and hooked it over the back of the nearest chair. “Good thing it’ll be over soon.”
Reagan watched flabbergasted as he sat across from her and picked up a menu. “Excuse me.” Her voice rose sharply, edged like a knife. “I didn’t invite you to sit. I told you I’m expecting someone.”
“Yeah, I know.” He flashed that same irritating grin. “I’m Elijah Cross.”
BUY LINKS: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | iBooks
About Mae Clair Mae Clair loves creating character-driven fiction in settings that vary from contemporary to mythical. Wherever her pen takes her, she flavors her stories with conflict, romance and elements of mystery. Married to her high school sweetheart, she lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about writing, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail and cats.
CONTACT LINKS:
Website | Blog | Twitter (@MaeClair1) | Facebook Author Page
Sarah here: I love the sea, so needless to say I love this post and find the book intriguing. Thanks so much for sharing this with us! And readers, don’t head off just yet. You’ve got a chance to win a copy of the book, so get to it!
September 8, 2013
It’s Release Day for “Her Wicked Sin” by Sarah Ballance (Entangled Scandalous)
HER WICKED SIN (Sins of Salem #1)
Now available from Sarah Ballance and Entangled Publishing’s Scandalous line of historical romance.
Her Wicked Sin | A Sins of Salem Novel (#1)
SALEM, MA 1692
On a moonless night, he rides into the winter forest on his beast as black as midnight….
Dashing stranger, Henry Dunham, comes to Salem on a mysterious errand, but is thrown from his horse in the dead of night and rescued by the local Puritan midwife, Lydia Colson.
Haunted by her past, Lydia is running from her own dark secrets, avoiding intrusive questions by pretending her dead husband is simply…away. But when she and Henry are caught in a compromising situation, one punishable by Puritan law, he saves her from scandal by claiming to be her errant spouse…and claiming her bed.
Forced to fake a marriage, Lydia and Henry find their passion overwhelming and their vows a little too real. As their lies become truths, a witch hunt closes in on Lydia, threatening not only their burgeoning love, but her life.
Find it @ Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes | Goodreads
Title: HER WICKED SIN (Sins of Salem #1)
Author: Sarah Ballance
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release Date: September 9, 2013
ISBN 13: 9781622662494
Available format(s): ebook
Her Wicked Sin | Excerpt
“Willard, you beast.” A round of profanity followed the utterance. Though the stranger’s words were foul, they offered for his equine companion both comfort and reassurance. Their soothing cadence eased the alarm from the horse’s eyes, leading his ears to relax from their pinned state.
Lydia found herself enchanted by the man’s tones and by his obvious affection for the horse.
He shifted in the leaves, still facing away, and he had yet to acknowledge her. She should flee. She had freed him from his quandary, and his voice tinged itself not with pain, but with humor. She would feel no remorse for moving past, yet her feet did not budge.
If she remained silent, would he not know her there? No, eventually he would wonder what held the reins aloft. She watched, waiting for that moment. Through the profound darkness, she noticed his hair was a nutty brown and longer than that of a Puritan man, though its richness showed no trace of the powder worn by many wealthy travelers. He was a study of contrasts, this man. For all of his finery, he seemed to shun the ways of society, and his roguish nature appealed to those innermost desires she had thought long lost. Her husband, as he were, had ruined her womanhood.
This stranger, in the most insignificant ways, had roused it.
Find it @ Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes | Goodreads
Review Snippets
“A thrilling romantic historical that deals with the Salem witch trials in a way that’s never been done before. Amazing!” - NY Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken
“Sarah Ballance has done an exceptional job with this release. The story is well built, plot flows effortlessly, and the language is true to the era. An exciting read, start to finish! Definitely a must read!” - Joe Breedon, Goodreads
About Sarah BallanceSarah and her husband of what he calls “many long, long years” live on the mid-Atlantic coast with their six young children, all of whom are perfectly adorable when they’re asleep. She never dreamed of becoming an author, but as a homeschooling mom, she often jokes she writes fiction because if she wants anyone to listen to her, she has to make them up. (As it turns out, her characters aren’t much better than the kids). When not buried under piles of laundry, she may be found adrift in the Atlantic (preferably on a boat) or seeking that ever-elusive perfect writing spot where not even the kids can find her.
She loves creating unforgettable stories while putting her characters through an unkind amount of torture—a hobby that has nothing to do with living with six children. (Really.) Though she adores nail-biting mystery and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Sarah writes in many genres including contemporary and ghostly supernatural romance. Her ever-growing roster of releases may be found at http://sarahballance.com
Stalk @ Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
