Noree Cosper's Blog, page 15
July 17, 2014
Pandora #Paranormal Box Set Author Showcase: Kelly Anne Blount
Welcome to the second day of our author showcase for the Pandora Box set. Today I present Kelly Anne Blount and a sneak peak at her story, Shade.
Excerpt:Blood dripped down my forehead and blurred my vision. I swallowed hard as I wiped it out of my eyes and on to my tattered dress. Trying to control my breathing, I focused on the dark alley head of me. I knew he was out there, but I didn’t know where.The hair stood up on the back of my neck as I pressed my body against a cool brick wall. How did this go so wrong? A door slamming caused my heart to take off like a cheetah chasing a gazelle. I crouched down and frantically looked for a makeshift weapon. Finally, my hands came across a broken metal pipe. I picked it up and clutched it to my chest. With my fingers trembling, I took a step into the deserted alleyway. Trying to stay close to the wall, I sprinted as quietly as possible. A mixture of blood and tears dripped down my forehead as the pavement pounded under my feet. Every inch of my being wanted to scream, but I held it in. Just make it out of this alley! Then you can scream! A deep rumbling voice echoed off the walls and sent chills through my core, “You can run, but I’ll always find you, Abriana.” I couldn’t tell which direction it originated from and I didn’t stop to find out. Instead, I propelled my legs forward faster than I thought humanly possible. I chanted a one-word mantra the entire time. Survive. Survive. Survive!A cool breeze whipped between the buildings and sent shivers down my damp neck. I could see a street in front of me. It was late, but a few people were still out and driving around. My chest ached and my lungs felt like they were about to burst into flames at any moment. I sucked in as much air as they would hold and pushed my body’s limits. You’re almost there! Just a few more feet! Suddenly, I felt fingernails dig into my shoulder and pull my body backward. The change in momentum caused me to fall flat on my back, knocking the air out of my lungs in the process. A metallic taste in my mouth and an ache in the back of my head were the last things I remembered before everything went black… ***I awoke to a strange noise followed by, “Tsk, tsk, tsk.”I tried to open my eyes, but panicked when I saw nothing but darkness. Goosebumps instantly covered my arms. Why can’t I see? Where am I? I wiggled back and forth, bumping into a low ceiling and carpeted walls.“You shouldn’t have run away from me,” came the nefarious voice belonging to the man in the dark alleyway. He gave a wicked laugh. “You know who I am and you know what I look like. The blindfold is so you don’t know where we’re going.” My lips began to tremble and my eyes filled with tears, but I forced them to stay at bay. Struggling, I tried to bring my hands to my face, but couldn’t. My wrists burned as a rope rubbed against my skin. He let out another laugh that left me chilled to the core. “I can’t risk you trying to run away again, now, can I?” Fear quaked through my body and a cold sinking feeling spread through my core. “Why are you doing this to me?” The corners of his lips turned up into a wicked smile. “Because I love you.”
About the Author:
Kelly Anne Blount was born in Madison, WI. After attending university, she moved to Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands to teach elementary school. While living there, she met the love of her life and was married in a beautiful ceremony on the Caribbean Sea.
After returning stateside, Kelly started to pursue another passion, writing. She recently wrote her first young fantasy adult novel in between teaching preschoolers with special needs and taking care of her husband and their five furry rescues.
Kelly also enjoys reading in her free time. Her favorite genres are YA fantasy, MG, paranormal romance, and the occasional thriller.
Shade is going to be a part of Pandora before it's released anywhere else. Be sure to grab this amazing box set containing 20 outstanding authors on August 5th.
Can't Wait?For Kobos and Nooks, Pandora is available for Preorder!Kindle lovers, I haven't forgotten about you. Sign up for the mailing list to be notified once Pandora is released.
Excerpt:Blood dripped down my forehead and blurred my vision. I swallowed hard as I wiped it out of my eyes and on to my tattered dress. Trying to control my breathing, I focused on the dark alley head of me. I knew he was out there, but I didn’t know where.The hair stood up on the back of my neck as I pressed my body against a cool brick wall. How did this go so wrong? A door slamming caused my heart to take off like a cheetah chasing a gazelle. I crouched down and frantically looked for a makeshift weapon. Finally, my hands came across a broken metal pipe. I picked it up and clutched it to my chest. With my fingers trembling, I took a step into the deserted alleyway. Trying to stay close to the wall, I sprinted as quietly as possible. A mixture of blood and tears dripped down my forehead as the pavement pounded under my feet. Every inch of my being wanted to scream, but I held it in. Just make it out of this alley! Then you can scream! A deep rumbling voice echoed off the walls and sent chills through my core, “You can run, but I’ll always find you, Abriana.” I couldn’t tell which direction it originated from and I didn’t stop to find out. Instead, I propelled my legs forward faster than I thought humanly possible. I chanted a one-word mantra the entire time. Survive. Survive. Survive!A cool breeze whipped between the buildings and sent shivers down my damp neck. I could see a street in front of me. It was late, but a few people were still out and driving around. My chest ached and my lungs felt like they were about to burst into flames at any moment. I sucked in as much air as they would hold and pushed my body’s limits. You’re almost there! Just a few more feet! Suddenly, I felt fingernails dig into my shoulder and pull my body backward. The change in momentum caused me to fall flat on my back, knocking the air out of my lungs in the process. A metallic taste in my mouth and an ache in the back of my head were the last things I remembered before everything went black… ***I awoke to a strange noise followed by, “Tsk, tsk, tsk.”I tried to open my eyes, but panicked when I saw nothing but darkness. Goosebumps instantly covered my arms. Why can’t I see? Where am I? I wiggled back and forth, bumping into a low ceiling and carpeted walls.“You shouldn’t have run away from me,” came the nefarious voice belonging to the man in the dark alleyway. He gave a wicked laugh. “You know who I am and you know what I look like. The blindfold is so you don’t know where we’re going.” My lips began to tremble and my eyes filled with tears, but I forced them to stay at bay. Struggling, I tried to bring my hands to my face, but couldn’t. My wrists burned as a rope rubbed against my skin. He let out another laugh that left me chilled to the core. “I can’t risk you trying to run away again, now, can I?” Fear quaked through my body and a cold sinking feeling spread through my core. “Why are you doing this to me?” The corners of his lips turned up into a wicked smile. “Because I love you.”
About the Author:Kelly Anne Blount was born in Madison, WI. After attending university, she moved to Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands to teach elementary school. While living there, she met the love of her life and was married in a beautiful ceremony on the Caribbean Sea.
After returning stateside, Kelly started to pursue another passion, writing. She recently wrote her first young fantasy adult novel in between teaching preschoolers with special needs and taking care of her husband and their five furry rescues.
Kelly also enjoys reading in her free time. Her favorite genres are YA fantasy, MG, paranormal romance, and the occasional thriller.
Shade is going to be a part of Pandora before it's released anywhere else. Be sure to grab this amazing box set containing 20 outstanding authors on August 5th.
Can't Wait?For Kobos and Nooks, Pandora is available for Preorder!Kindle lovers, I haven't forgotten about you. Sign up for the mailing list to be notified once Pandora is released.
July 16, 2014
Pandora #Paranormal Box Set Author Showcase: Laura Howard
I have exciting news! I present to you the Pandora: A Bestselling Box Set of Wicked Paranormal Reads. Nineteen authors and I are joining together to offer you our novels and novellas for the awesome price of 99 cents for the month of August.
For Kobos and Nooks, Pandora is available for Preorder!Kindle lovers, I haven't forgotten about you. Sign up for the mailing list to be notified once Pandora is released.
In celebration I'm showcasing each author here on my blog. First, I would love to introduce the lovely Laura Howard.
The Forgotten Ones
Blurb:
Allison O'Malley's plan is to go to grad school so she can get a good job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She has carefully closed herself off from everything else, including a relationship with Ethan, who she's been in love with for as long as she can remember.
What is definitely not part of the plan is the return of her long-lost father, who claims he can bring Allison's mother back from the dark place her mind has gone. Allison doesn't trust her father, so why would she believe his fairy tale about a long forgotten Irish people, the Tuatha de Danaan? But truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother's sanity.Excerpt:"We’re going to the beach tomorrow,” Nicole said.
“Have fun,” I mumbled.
She wiped her lips with a napkin and narrowed her eyes at me. “You’re coming.” I opened my mouth to argue, but she held a slender finger up at me and pursed her lips. “It’s the first Saturday you’ve had off in months. School’s over, at least for the summer. You’re coming.”
I sighed and looked up at the pattern of our umbrella. “You really know how to ruin a perfectly good sundae.”
Her eyes shot daggers at me. “We’ll have a great time, Al.” Her expression changed as she seemed to change tactics. Her green eyes widened and her lip stuck out just the tiniest bit.
Cranky Nicole was a challenge, but pouting Nicole was impossible.
“Fine,” I sighed. “We’re going to the beach.” I looked at my sundae, which had made me so happy a minute earlier and a thought came to me. She hadn't said anyone else was coming, but Nicole and her boyfriend Jeff were practically inseparable. “Wait, who else is going?”
Nicole grinned, clearly smelling her victory. “The usual crew: Jeff, Rachel, Sean and”—her eyebrows inched up—“Ethan.”
I nodded, trying to breathe evenly. I hated the way my pulse spiked at just the mention of his name. Handsome, cocky Ethan. His smile had the power to break down every one of my defenses. But, I didn’t have space in my life for that. I had a plan—to focus on taking care of my mom. My grandparents had done it by themselves for long enough. I needed to find a way to help, to unburden them. That was my priority. But Ethan…he was so hard to resist sometimes.
About Laura:Laura Howard lives in New Hampshire with her husband and four children. Her obsession with books began at the age of 6 when she got her first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other girly novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. Books took a backseat to diapers when she had her first child. It wasn't until the release of a little novel called Twilight, 8 years later, that she rediscovered her love of fiction. Soon after, her own characters began to make themselves known.
For Kobos and Nooks, Pandora is available for Preorder!Kindle lovers, I haven't forgotten about you. Sign up for the mailing list to be notified once Pandora is released.In celebration I'm showcasing each author here on my blog. First, I would love to introduce the lovely Laura Howard.
The Forgotten Ones
Blurb:
Allison O'Malley's plan is to go to grad school so she can get a good job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She has carefully closed herself off from everything else, including a relationship with Ethan, who she's been in love with for as long as she can remember.
What is definitely not part of the plan is the return of her long-lost father, who claims he can bring Allison's mother back from the dark place her mind has gone. Allison doesn't trust her father, so why would she believe his fairy tale about a long forgotten Irish people, the Tuatha de Danaan? But truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother's sanity.Excerpt:"We’re going to the beach tomorrow,” Nicole said.
“Have fun,” I mumbled.
She wiped her lips with a napkin and narrowed her eyes at me. “You’re coming.” I opened my mouth to argue, but she held a slender finger up at me and pursed her lips. “It’s the first Saturday you’ve had off in months. School’s over, at least for the summer. You’re coming.”
I sighed and looked up at the pattern of our umbrella. “You really know how to ruin a perfectly good sundae.”
Her eyes shot daggers at me. “We’ll have a great time, Al.” Her expression changed as she seemed to change tactics. Her green eyes widened and her lip stuck out just the tiniest bit.
Cranky Nicole was a challenge, but pouting Nicole was impossible.
“Fine,” I sighed. “We’re going to the beach.” I looked at my sundae, which had made me so happy a minute earlier and a thought came to me. She hadn't said anyone else was coming, but Nicole and her boyfriend Jeff were practically inseparable. “Wait, who else is going?”
Nicole grinned, clearly smelling her victory. “The usual crew: Jeff, Rachel, Sean and”—her eyebrows inched up—“Ethan.”
I nodded, trying to breathe evenly. I hated the way my pulse spiked at just the mention of his name. Handsome, cocky Ethan. His smile had the power to break down every one of my defenses. But, I didn’t have space in my life for that. I had a plan—to focus on taking care of my mom. My grandparents had done it by themselves for long enough. I needed to find a way to help, to unburden them. That was my priority. But Ethan…he was so hard to resist sometimes.
About Laura:Laura Howard lives in New Hampshire with her husband and four children. Her obsession with books began at the age of 6 when she got her first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other girly novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. Books took a backseat to diapers when she had her first child. It wasn't until the release of a little novel called Twilight, 8 years later, that she rediscovered her love of fiction. Soon after, her own characters began to make themselves known.
July 3, 2014
July #Kindle #giveaway Win a #free #kindlefire or $139 #paypal #cash! #amreading
Happy July and Happy Independence Day for all my fellow Americans. It's time for the July Kindle Giveaway!
Title: Better than Perfect
Genre: Chick-Lit
Synopsis:
Twenty-three-year-old Karlie is in the type of rut some people never escape from. With few friends, no boyfriend, and no plans to graduate from college any time in the immediate future, Karlie is as stuck in her ways as the elderly neighbor she spends all her time with. When her world is invaded by two surly twins bound for criminal court, a too-good-to-be-true love interest, and a cute cop who keeps showing up at the most inopportune moments, Karlie can either fight against the changes in her life, or embrace them.
Author Bio:
Tricia Drammeh is a wife, a mother of four children, and an author. She lives in New Hampshire with her family. When she isn't writing, she can be found devouring books, chasing cats, and consuming vast amounts of coffee.
Links:Website: http://www.triciadrammeh.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTriciaDrammehTwitter: https://twitter.com/TriciaDrammehGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6453547.Tricia_Drammeh
Amazon: Amazon.com: Better than Perfect eBook: Tricia Drammeh: Kindle Store
Don't forget about the Giveaway! Also, during this time A Prescription for Delirium will be on Sale for 99 cents!. Be sure to pick it up if you haven't. The Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway
Deals from Our SponsorsBlack Diago by Wendy PotockiThe Vampire’s Game by Wendy PotockiThe Forever Girl by Rebecca HamiltonA Prescription for Delirium by Noree CosperMind if I Come In by K.L. PhelpsFirst Impression by Pauline CreedenGuardians: The Girl by Lola StVilClaiming Callie by Paige RionAuthor Regina WellingHidden by Kosta AngelouRest for the Wicked by Cate DeanJUSTICE (The Ferryman & The Flame #2) by Rhiannon PailleImmortal Ink PublishingAn Etiquette Guide to the End Times by Maia SeppThe Fixer by Rex CarpenterKnowing His Secret by K.C. FallsWinter Arrives by Roz MarshallXGeneration 1: You Don’t Know Me by Brad MagnarellaEvolution Series by Kelly CarreroAuthor K.B. NelsonBound in Blue by Heather Hamilton-SenterAuthor Jamie CampbellSqueal by Enoch St. JohnShade by Marilyn PeakeAundes Aura by Ryan SullivanAuthor Rachel McClellanBenton: A Zombie Novel by Jolie du PreAuthor Carl PlumerNorthwoods Deep by Joel ArnoldMistaken by Renna PeakThe Making of Nebraska Brown by Louise CaiolaBetter than Perfect by Tricia DrammehThe Breaker’s Code by Conner KressleyAuthor ER PierceGhost No More by CeeCee JamesSometimes We Ran by Stephen DrivickMidnight Star by Danielle WardNever Fall for a Warlock by Marilyn VixApprentice by Eric GuindonWings of Shadow by Anna KyssWatcher’s Web by Patty JansenThe Keeper’s Realm by Bre FaucheuxAuthor Sera BrightEcho Prophecy by Lindsey Fairleigh
Title: Better than Perfect
Genre: Chick-Lit
Synopsis:
Twenty-three-year-old Karlie is in the type of rut some people never escape from. With few friends, no boyfriend, and no plans to graduate from college any time in the immediate future, Karlie is as stuck in her ways as the elderly neighbor she spends all her time with. When her world is invaded by two surly twins bound for criminal court, a too-good-to-be-true love interest, and a cute cop who keeps showing up at the most inopportune moments, Karlie can either fight against the changes in her life, or embrace them.
Author Bio:
Tricia Drammeh is a wife, a mother of four children, and an author. She lives in New Hampshire with her family. When she isn't writing, she can be found devouring books, chasing cats, and consuming vast amounts of coffee.
Links:Website: http://www.triciadrammeh.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTriciaDrammehTwitter: https://twitter.com/TriciaDrammehGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6453547.Tricia_Drammeh
Amazon: Amazon.com: Better than Perfect eBook: Tricia Drammeh: Kindle Store
Don't forget about the Giveaway! Also, during this time A Prescription for Delirium will be on Sale for 99 cents!. Be sure to pick it up if you haven't. The Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway
Deals from Our SponsorsBlack Diago by Wendy PotockiThe Vampire’s Game by Wendy PotockiThe Forever Girl by Rebecca HamiltonA Prescription for Delirium by Noree CosperMind if I Come In by K.L. PhelpsFirst Impression by Pauline CreedenGuardians: The Girl by Lola StVilClaiming Callie by Paige RionAuthor Regina WellingHidden by Kosta AngelouRest for the Wicked by Cate DeanJUSTICE (The Ferryman & The Flame #2) by Rhiannon PailleImmortal Ink PublishingAn Etiquette Guide to the End Times by Maia SeppThe Fixer by Rex CarpenterKnowing His Secret by K.C. FallsWinter Arrives by Roz MarshallXGeneration 1: You Don’t Know Me by Brad MagnarellaEvolution Series by Kelly CarreroAuthor K.B. NelsonBound in Blue by Heather Hamilton-SenterAuthor Jamie CampbellSqueal by Enoch St. JohnShade by Marilyn PeakeAundes Aura by Ryan SullivanAuthor Rachel McClellanBenton: A Zombie Novel by Jolie du PreAuthor Carl PlumerNorthwoods Deep by Joel ArnoldMistaken by Renna PeakThe Making of Nebraska Brown by Louise CaiolaBetter than Perfect by Tricia DrammehThe Breaker’s Code by Conner KressleyAuthor ER PierceGhost No More by CeeCee JamesSometimes We Ran by Stephen DrivickMidnight Star by Danielle WardNever Fall for a Warlock by Marilyn VixApprentice by Eric GuindonWings of Shadow by Anna KyssWatcher’s Web by Patty JansenThe Keeper’s Realm by Bre FaucheuxAuthor Sera BrightEcho Prophecy by Lindsey Fairleigh
June 29, 2014
All in the Cards: Tarot and The Devil
So, despite what you may think, tarot is not an ancient form of divination. The tarot deck was actually developed in Italy in the 1400s for the game of trumps. The allegorical pictures were added to the plain suited decks to spice them up. Leave it to Italy.
It wasn't until the mid 1700s that tarot cards became a popular form of divination. The pictures began to take symbolic meanings. The first book on cartomancy was written in 1770 by Jean-Baptiste Alliette, or Etteilla as he was know in the occult world. Etteilla was a pioneer in developing a new form of fortune telling.
Today many people use tarot as a fun game of fortune telling or to even help guide them through the hard decisions in life. Of course, in my book tarot cards play a more important role in the story. In my up coming book, A Dose of Brimstone (Release 2014), a new character lays out the cards. Because I love anything with an occult flavor, no matter when it developed, I have been drawing my own tarot cards. Last year I created the Devil for A Prescription for Delirium. This year I plan to continue expanding the deck, starting with the cards will appear in A Dose of Brimstone.
The Devil:
By meActual Meaning:
The Devil is the 15th card of the Major Arcana, and is associated with Earth and Capricorn. Though many decks portray a stereotypical Satan figure for this card, it is more representative of bondage to material things than an evil persona. It also indicates an obsession or addiction to fulfilling our own Earthly desires. Should the Devil represent a person, it will most likely be one of money and power, one who is persuasive, aggressive, and controlling. In any case, it is most important that the querent understand the ties that bind are worn freely.
VHO World Meaning:
The approach or evidence of a supernatural evil influence in the querent's life. This usually means a demon, but can also represent a malevolent spirit or a vampire perhaps.
So, Once I finish I will be posting my new cards here in a series.
Do you like stories about angels, demons, and the supernatural? Pick up a copy of "A Prescription for Delirium" available on Amazon.
It wasn't until the mid 1700s that tarot cards became a popular form of divination. The pictures began to take symbolic meanings. The first book on cartomancy was written in 1770 by Jean-Baptiste Alliette, or Etteilla as he was know in the occult world. Etteilla was a pioneer in developing a new form of fortune telling.
Today many people use tarot as a fun game of fortune telling or to even help guide them through the hard decisions in life. Of course, in my book tarot cards play a more important role in the story. In my up coming book, A Dose of Brimstone (Release 2014), a new character lays out the cards. Because I love anything with an occult flavor, no matter when it developed, I have been drawing my own tarot cards. Last year I created the Devil for A Prescription for Delirium. This year I plan to continue expanding the deck, starting with the cards will appear in A Dose of Brimstone.
The Devil:
By meActual Meaning:The Devil is the 15th card of the Major Arcana, and is associated with Earth and Capricorn. Though many decks portray a stereotypical Satan figure for this card, it is more representative of bondage to material things than an evil persona. It also indicates an obsession or addiction to fulfilling our own Earthly desires. Should the Devil represent a person, it will most likely be one of money and power, one who is persuasive, aggressive, and controlling. In any case, it is most important that the querent understand the ties that bind are worn freely.
VHO World Meaning:
The approach or evidence of a supernatural evil influence in the querent's life. This usually means a demon, but can also represent a malevolent spirit or a vampire perhaps.
So, Once I finish I will be posting my new cards here in a series.
Do you like stories about angels, demons, and the supernatural? Pick up a copy of "A Prescription for Delirium" available on Amazon.
June 4, 2014
Summoned Blog Tour
Today I'm honored to host Rainy Kaye on her Summoned Blog Tour. We have a lot of treat for you today, so sit back and enjoy! We're going to start with a few word from Rainy herself. Take it away, my dear!
The Making of Summoned: 4 Ways to Keep a Story InterestingMany story concepts lend themselves to great beginnings and endings, but the middle can become a bit murky. Might have gars or creepy, invasive fish in it, so writers often feel like skirting around the edges, sticking to the shallow end with less slippery things. But sometimes, you just have to take the plunge. Make it the worst. There are things your character does not want to happen. They will do anything to never have to face this darkest of dark fears, to be put into the terrible situation that they’re too scared to even imagine. In the words of Picard: make it so! Seriously, twist those thumb screws and make them beg. It’s terrible and mean and makes you doubt your sanity (I was doing that anyway, myself) so just go for it. The characters will hate you—but your audience won’t.Make it big. Don’t just start a fire; create a bomb. In SUMMONED, I did this literally, but you don’t have to always blow things up (I just happen to love big booms, but refer to the above sanity check). Whatever it is your character needs to do, force them to make it bigger.Make it flawed. The only thing better than making a fire into an explosion is making the explosion go off as the worst possible time. Perfect escapes aren’t nearly as fun to write (or read) as one that is terribly inconvenient right up to the end.Make it uncomfortable. This probably says more about me than I should be okay with, but I enjoy making my characters squirm. Have you met Silvia yet? Dimitri despises his current lot in life, but he’s really not looking forward to when that person gets a hold of him. The reason is kind of gross.
Personally, diving in is one of my most favorite parts of writing. If it doesn’t work, you can always revise it or even delete the whole scene. But when it does work—and sometimes, it really does—you won’t fear the deep end again.
Blurb
Twenty-three year old Dimitri has to do what he is told—literally. Controlled by a paranormal bond, he is forced to use his wits to fulfill unlimited deadly wishes made by multimillionaire Karl Walker.
Dimitri has no idea how his family line became trapped in the genie bond. He just knows resisting has never ended well. When he meets Syd—assertive, sexy, intelligent Syd—he becomes determined to make her his own. Except Karl has ensured Dimitri can't tell anyone about the bond, and Syd isn't the type to tolerate secrets.
Then Karl starts sending him away on back-to-back wishes. Unable to balance love and lies, Dimitri sets out to uncover Karl's ultimate plan and put it to an end. But doing so forces him to confront the one wish he never saw coming—the wish that will destroy him.
Summoned is represented by Rossano Trentin of TZLA.
Find out more at http://www.summonedtheseries.com
About Rainy:Rainy Kaye is an aspiring overlord. In the mean time, she blogs at RainyoftheDark.com and writes paranormal novels from her lair somewhere in Phoenix, Arizona. When not plotting world domination, she enjoys getting lost around the globe, studying music so she can sing along with symphonic metal bands, and becoming distracted by Twitter @rainyofthedark.She is represented by Rossano Trentin of TZLA.
Excerpt:Intel has provided me next to nothing for this assignment. In a way, I'm relieved. After the disaster at the downtown office, I will never fully trust their hookups again. Still, a little more information to go on would be great. All I have is the address, shift schedule, and the description of the books. They have gold colored spines, and they should be sitting in a box together.The “should be” is unsettling. I “should be” in bed with Syd, but I'm stomping the gas pedal between Phoenix and San Diego.I've only visited San Diego once, and that was to break into a home and steal some business plans. As it turned out, the owners had been on vacation. No alarm had been engaged. I miss the easy wishes.When I arrive into San Diego, the clock shows nearly nine at night. According to the schedule, the lab is used during business hours as a research and teaching facility. At night, it's rented out to a college class and some independent groups.This means that at no time will the facility be completely empty. It also means I'm better off going during the second shift. The day researchers are more likely to notice someone who doesn't belong than the tenants at night. The real problem is finding those books. The case file managed to leave out that tidbit. This will be like treasure hunting without a treasure map.Oh, and then I get to burn down everything when I'm done. Hopefully the people inside will escape unscathed.I scratch my head as I shuffle through the papers again. The night is about to get interesting. This wish shouldn't take too long—I won't even need to stay overnight—but I'm going to need supplies.
My Review:First of all. I am glad to see books out featuring Arabic lore. There is a wealth of great material for stories there that is untapped. This story focuses on djinn, or genies as most people know them. However, if you think this is going to be anything like I Dream of Jeannie or Disney's Aladdin, you will be very mistaken.
This book is filled with violence, sex, and a mystery that keeps you reading until the end. At first I was really questioning why Dimitri had no power, but I'm really satisfied with the answer at the end. Dimitri himself was just awesome. He attitude and quips had me laughing aloud throughout the entire book. And at the end I had some real Damn? Really? Moments.I loved how everything snapped together. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Kaye's work.
Be sure to enter the giveaway!a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Making of Summoned: 4 Ways to Keep a Story InterestingMany story concepts lend themselves to great beginnings and endings, but the middle can become a bit murky. Might have gars or creepy, invasive fish in it, so writers often feel like skirting around the edges, sticking to the shallow end with less slippery things. But sometimes, you just have to take the plunge. Make it the worst. There are things your character does not want to happen. They will do anything to never have to face this darkest of dark fears, to be put into the terrible situation that they’re too scared to even imagine. In the words of Picard: make it so! Seriously, twist those thumb screws and make them beg. It’s terrible and mean and makes you doubt your sanity (I was doing that anyway, myself) so just go for it. The characters will hate you—but your audience won’t.Make it big. Don’t just start a fire; create a bomb. In SUMMONED, I did this literally, but you don’t have to always blow things up (I just happen to love big booms, but refer to the above sanity check). Whatever it is your character needs to do, force them to make it bigger.Make it flawed. The only thing better than making a fire into an explosion is making the explosion go off as the worst possible time. Perfect escapes aren’t nearly as fun to write (or read) as one that is terribly inconvenient right up to the end.Make it uncomfortable. This probably says more about me than I should be okay with, but I enjoy making my characters squirm. Have you met Silvia yet? Dimitri despises his current lot in life, but he’s really not looking forward to when that person gets a hold of him. The reason is kind of gross.
Personally, diving in is one of my most favorite parts of writing. If it doesn’t work, you can always revise it or even delete the whole scene. But when it does work—and sometimes, it really does—you won’t fear the deep end again.
Blurb
Twenty-three year old Dimitri has to do what he is told—literally. Controlled by a paranormal bond, he is forced to use his wits to fulfill unlimited deadly wishes made by multimillionaire Karl Walker.
Dimitri has no idea how his family line became trapped in the genie bond. He just knows resisting has never ended well. When he meets Syd—assertive, sexy, intelligent Syd—he becomes determined to make her his own. Except Karl has ensured Dimitri can't tell anyone about the bond, and Syd isn't the type to tolerate secrets.
Then Karl starts sending him away on back-to-back wishes. Unable to balance love and lies, Dimitri sets out to uncover Karl's ultimate plan and put it to an end. But doing so forces him to confront the one wish he never saw coming—the wish that will destroy him.
Summoned is represented by Rossano Trentin of TZLA.
Find out more at http://www.summonedtheseries.com
About Rainy:Rainy Kaye is an aspiring overlord. In the mean time, she blogs at RainyoftheDark.com and writes paranormal novels from her lair somewhere in Phoenix, Arizona. When not plotting world domination, she enjoys getting lost around the globe, studying music so she can sing along with symphonic metal bands, and becoming distracted by Twitter @rainyofthedark.She is represented by Rossano Trentin of TZLA.
Excerpt:Intel has provided me next to nothing for this assignment. In a way, I'm relieved. After the disaster at the downtown office, I will never fully trust their hookups again. Still, a little more information to go on would be great. All I have is the address, shift schedule, and the description of the books. They have gold colored spines, and they should be sitting in a box together.The “should be” is unsettling. I “should be” in bed with Syd, but I'm stomping the gas pedal between Phoenix and San Diego.I've only visited San Diego once, and that was to break into a home and steal some business plans. As it turned out, the owners had been on vacation. No alarm had been engaged. I miss the easy wishes.When I arrive into San Diego, the clock shows nearly nine at night. According to the schedule, the lab is used during business hours as a research and teaching facility. At night, it's rented out to a college class and some independent groups.This means that at no time will the facility be completely empty. It also means I'm better off going during the second shift. The day researchers are more likely to notice someone who doesn't belong than the tenants at night. The real problem is finding those books. The case file managed to leave out that tidbit. This will be like treasure hunting without a treasure map.Oh, and then I get to burn down everything when I'm done. Hopefully the people inside will escape unscathed.I scratch my head as I shuffle through the papers again. The night is about to get interesting. This wish shouldn't take too long—I won't even need to stay overnight—but I'm going to need supplies.
My Review:First of all. I am glad to see books out featuring Arabic lore. There is a wealth of great material for stories there that is untapped. This story focuses on djinn, or genies as most people know them. However, if you think this is going to be anything like I Dream of Jeannie or Disney's Aladdin, you will be very mistaken.
This book is filled with violence, sex, and a mystery that keeps you reading until the end. At first I was really questioning why Dimitri had no power, but I'm really satisfied with the answer at the end. Dimitri himself was just awesome. He attitude and quips had me laughing aloud throughout the entire book. And at the end I had some real Damn? Really? Moments.I loved how everything snapped together. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Kaye's work.
Be sure to enter the giveaway!a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 31, 2014
2014 Hot Calender Reads: June
It's 2014 and we're celebrating with an awesome fantasy themed calendar. This calendar is for the background on your computer and you can get this month's image below.
Each month will feature a different book or series, so if you want to challenge yourself, try reading each book or series that is featured before each month is over. The book for June is Daughter of Chaos by Jen McConnel. She is also giving away a cool swag pack, so enter the rafflecopter at the bottom of the post!
Click here to download the full size image. Then set as your background!
Daughter of Chaos
There comes a time in every witch's life when she must choose her path. Darlena's friends have already chosen, so why is it so hard for her to make up her mind? Now, Darlena is out of time. Under pressure from Hecate, the Queen of all witches, Darlena makes a rash decision to choose Red magic, a path no witch in her right mind would dare take. As a Red witch, she will be responsible for chaos and mayhem, drawing her deep into darkness. Will the power of Red magic prove too much for Darlena, or will she learn to control it before it's too late?
DAUGHTER OF CHAOS is the first in a YA paranormal trilogy
Amazon| Other Formats
Author Bio:
Jen McConnel first began writing poetry as a child. A Michigander by birth, she now lives and writes in the beautiful state of North Carolina. A graduate of Western Michigan University, she also holds a MS in Library Science from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. When she isn't crafting worlds of fiction, she teaches college writing composition and yoga. Once upon a time, she was a middle school teacher, a librarian, and a bookseller, but those are stories for another time.
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Each month will feature a different book or series, so if you want to challenge yourself, try reading each book or series that is featured before each month is over. The book for June is Daughter of Chaos by Jen McConnel. She is also giving away a cool swag pack, so enter the rafflecopter at the bottom of the post!
Click here to download the full size image. Then set as your background!
Daughter of Chaos
There comes a time in every witch's life when she must choose her path. Darlena's friends have already chosen, so why is it so hard for her to make up her mind? Now, Darlena is out of time. Under pressure from Hecate, the Queen of all witches, Darlena makes a rash decision to choose Red magic, a path no witch in her right mind would dare take. As a Red witch, she will be responsible for chaos and mayhem, drawing her deep into darkness. Will the power of Red magic prove too much for Darlena, or will she learn to control it before it's too late?
DAUGHTER OF CHAOS is the first in a YA paranormal trilogy
Amazon| Other Formats
Author Bio:
Jen McConnel first began writing poetry as a child. A Michigander by birth, she now lives and writes in the beautiful state of North Carolina. A graduate of Western Michigan University, she also holds a MS in Library Science from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. When she isn't crafting worlds of fiction, she teaches college writing composition and yoga. Once upon a time, she was a middle school teacher, a librarian, and a bookseller, but those are stories for another time.
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 20, 2014
Review: The Breakers Code by Connor Kressley
Today, I wanted to show some love for another indie author. Connor is a great author and hilarious to follow in Facebook.
So, on to the book:
Blurb (from Amazon):
Where were you when the world ended?
Three weeks shy of her seventeenth birthday, Cresta Karr wakes to find her world is falling apart. The necklace her father left her is mysteriously missing, a black sedan is stalking her and her friends, and her house is minutes away from exploding. To top it off, she finds out that Owen, the enigmatic, if slightly off-kilter guy of her dreams, is both not interested in going out with her and a superspy sent by a clandestine organization to keep tabs on her.
Turns out Cresta is the subject of a 500 year old prophecy, and if Owen and the other “Breakers” can't find a way to circumvent the future before the sun comes up on her birthday, Cresta is destined to bring about the end of the world -- something she'd rather not have on her college applications. That is, of course, if the gun-toting cult members piling onto her front porch don't get to her first.
The countdown is on. Secrets will be revealed, relationships will be tested, prophecies will be fulfilled, and fate will fight free will in a battle so intense that it won't end until the world itself does.
Happy birthday, Cresta.
Review:
The first chapter drew me in and didn't let go. I think it was the fast pace of the novel. I LOVE fast paced novels. Of course, fast pace can't completely hold my interest. The story itself was intriguing. It was based on the debate of free will vs. destiny. Can one really fight the events that unfold and seem to lead them down one path?
The characters themselves were pretty deep and enjoyable. I would have liked to a little more about some of the antagonists, but that was minor. I can say I am a major Casper fan and can't wait to see more of him in the next book.
In fact, I'm really looking forward to the next one. Get to writing, Mr. Kressley.
So, on to the book:
Blurb (from Amazon):
Where were you when the world ended?
Three weeks shy of her seventeenth birthday, Cresta Karr wakes to find her world is falling apart. The necklace her father left her is mysteriously missing, a black sedan is stalking her and her friends, and her house is minutes away from exploding. To top it off, she finds out that Owen, the enigmatic, if slightly off-kilter guy of her dreams, is both not interested in going out with her and a superspy sent by a clandestine organization to keep tabs on her.
Turns out Cresta is the subject of a 500 year old prophecy, and if Owen and the other “Breakers” can't find a way to circumvent the future before the sun comes up on her birthday, Cresta is destined to bring about the end of the world -- something she'd rather not have on her college applications. That is, of course, if the gun-toting cult members piling onto her front porch don't get to her first.
The countdown is on. Secrets will be revealed, relationships will be tested, prophecies will be fulfilled, and fate will fight free will in a battle so intense that it won't end until the world itself does.
Happy birthday, Cresta.
Review:
The first chapter drew me in and didn't let go. I think it was the fast pace of the novel. I LOVE fast paced novels. Of course, fast pace can't completely hold my interest. The story itself was intriguing. It was based on the debate of free will vs. destiny. Can one really fight the events that unfold and seem to lead them down one path?
The characters themselves were pretty deep and enjoyable. I would have liked to a little more about some of the antagonists, but that was minor. I can say I am a major Casper fan and can't wait to see more of him in the next book.
In fact, I'm really looking forward to the next one. Get to writing, Mr. Kressley.
May 10, 2014
Enter this easy rafflecopter #giveaway to win any #paranormal #pnr book of your choice! #amreading
Enter the JEN MINKMAN Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveawayCheck Out More of Jen's Books!
The Space in BetweenComing SoonWhen Moira helps out her sister and brother in a Wiccan ritual on Halloween, the last thing she expects is to be swept away to a mystical wilderness. Sitting within the stones of the ancient circle of Penmaenmawr, Wales, she's convinced it's an illusion. But the dark-haired, handsome man with amnesia that Moira meets during her trance cannot be blinked away like a dream.Hayko, the mysterious stranger, won’t let go. After returning home from her stone circle adventure, she is beckoned back night after night to the outlandish dreamland by an invisible force. But the hardest part isn't having to fight the terrifying creatures of these nightmares--it's realizing she’s falling for a guy without a past who isn’t real.What if you really can fall in love with the man of your dreams?Sign Up For Release Notification
*****
Shadow of Time
All Hannah needs is a nice and quiet vacation after her first year of teaching French at a high school. She joins her brother Ben for the summer in their mom’s log cabin in Arizona. There, she meets Josh again, Ben’s childhood friend from the Navajo reservation. The little boy from the rez has grown up fast, and Hannah can’t help but feeling more for him than just friendship.
But fate apparently has something else in store for her. And it’s not peace and quiet. Night after night, Hannah is plagued by strange nightmares about the past of Navajo Nation and terrifying shadows chasing her. They seem to come closer – and why is Josh always present in her dreams?Sometimes, the past has a way of catching up with you.Buy on Amazon
*****
The Boy From The Woods
Julia has been in love with Michael for years. He’s the hottest guy in school, and she can’t believe her luck when they finally hit it off during Senior Prom. Her dream doesn’t last, though: after a few dates, he callously dumps her out of the blue. Summer vacation starts with Julia feeling heart-broken and miserable.But then she rescues Michael in the woods when he has a motorcycle accident in a heavy thunderstorm. From that point onward, her life is turned upside down. Michael has changed completely after the blow to the head that nearly killed him... and he wants her back. But why is he so different? And will she be able to trust him this time around?Can the boy who broke your heart ever win it back again . . ?
Buy on Amazon
*****
The Island #1 The Island Series'I walk toward the sea. The endless surface of the water extends to the horizon, whichever way I look.Our world is small. We are on our own, and we only have ourselves to depend on. We rely on the Force deep within us, as taught to us by our forefathers.If I were to walk westward from here, I would come across a barrier - the Wall. Behind it, there are Fools. At least, that's what everyone says. I have never seen one.'Leia lives on the Island, a world in which children leave their parents to take care of themselves when they are ten years old. Across this Island runs a wall that no one has ever crossed. The Fools living behind it are not amenable to reason - they believe in illusions. That's what The Book says, the only thing left to the Eastern Islanders by their ancestors.But when a strange man washes ashore and Leia meets a Fool face to face, her life will never be the same. Is what she and her friends believe about the Island really true?Or is everyone in their world, in fact, a Fool?
Buy on Amazon
*****
The Waves #2 The Island SeriesThe first memory I have of my grandfather is of a moment that we share together. I'm sitting on his knee looking out over the harbor. Grandpa is smoking a pipe. He points at the horizon."Look, Walt. Our ships are out there. And one day, another even more beautiful ship will appear at the horizon. A mighty ship to take us all away. And Annabelle will be at the front deck with open arms, inviting us all to join her on board.""Why don't we sail to her ourselves?" I inquire wide-eyed."Because she promised she would come," granddad replies. "And in that promise we trust. It's only the Unbelievers who think they can do everything themselves. They have no faith in the Goddess."Walt lives in Hope Harbor, an island community that has put its trust in salvation from across the sea. The townspeople wait patiently, build their ships to sail out and welcome the Goddess, and piously visit the temple every week. Horror stories to scare their children are told about the Unbelievers on the other side of Tresco.But not all is what it seems. Walt has questions that no one can answer, and when his best friend and cousin Yorrick is killed in an accident, he digs deeper to find out the truth about the origins of Hope Harbor's society... and the secrets of the temple.Return to the world of The Island and discover what Walt's life was like before and after he met Leia!Buy on Amazon*****
The Deep #3 The Island Series‘The world is never-ending.I never realized just how much space there is – how far and wide the water around our island stretches out. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I may have believed that a second Wall ran around Tresco, containing the infinite waters so we wouldn’t all wash over the edge and plummet down into the depths.’ Leia and Walt are on their way to the Other Side, where the legendary land of Cornwall awaits them. Tony, their new friend, has told them that all wars of the past have been forgotten and the citizens of Bodmin and Dartmoor live in peace. People adhere to the tenets of an old religion that preaches forgiveness and non-violence.However, Walt and Leia soon discover that even a peace-loving, ideal society like this one may have its flaws. While on a forbidden trip to Exeter, the old city of their ancestors, the two Islanders discover more about the new world than they ever bargained for. Secrets run dark and passions run deep in this thrilling conclusion to the Island novella series.Coming soon - view on Goodreads
*****
The Space in BetweenComing SoonWhen Moira helps out her sister and brother in a Wiccan ritual on Halloween, the last thing she expects is to be swept away to a mystical wilderness. Sitting within the stones of the ancient circle of Penmaenmawr, Wales, she's convinced it's an illusion. But the dark-haired, handsome man with amnesia that Moira meets during her trance cannot be blinked away like a dream.Hayko, the mysterious stranger, won’t let go. After returning home from her stone circle adventure, she is beckoned back night after night to the outlandish dreamland by an invisible force. But the hardest part isn't having to fight the terrifying creatures of these nightmares--it's realizing she’s falling for a guy without a past who isn’t real.What if you really can fall in love with the man of your dreams?Sign Up For Release Notification *****
Shadow of Time
All Hannah needs is a nice and quiet vacation after her first year of teaching French at a high school. She joins her brother Ben for the summer in their mom’s log cabin in Arizona. There, she meets Josh again, Ben’s childhood friend from the Navajo reservation. The little boy from the rez has grown up fast, and Hannah can’t help but feeling more for him than just friendship. But fate apparently has something else in store for her. And it’s not peace and quiet. Night after night, Hannah is plagued by strange nightmares about the past of Navajo Nation and terrifying shadows chasing her. They seem to come closer – and why is Josh always present in her dreams?Sometimes, the past has a way of catching up with you.Buy on Amazon
*****
The Boy From The Woods
Julia has been in love with Michael for years. He’s the hottest guy in school, and she can’t believe her luck when they finally hit it off during Senior Prom. Her dream doesn’t last, though: after a few dates, he callously dumps her out of the blue. Summer vacation starts with Julia feeling heart-broken and miserable.But then she rescues Michael in the woods when he has a motorcycle accident in a heavy thunderstorm. From that point onward, her life is turned upside down. Michael has changed completely after the blow to the head that nearly killed him... and he wants her back. But why is he so different? And will she be able to trust him this time around?Can the boy who broke your heart ever win it back again . . ? Buy on Amazon
*****
The Island #1 The Island Series'I walk toward the sea. The endless surface of the water extends to the horizon, whichever way I look.Our world is small. We are on our own, and we only have ourselves to depend on. We rely on the Force deep within us, as taught to us by our forefathers.If I were to walk westward from here, I would come across a barrier - the Wall. Behind it, there are Fools. At least, that's what everyone says. I have never seen one.'Leia lives on the Island, a world in which children leave their parents to take care of themselves when they are ten years old. Across this Island runs a wall that no one has ever crossed. The Fools living behind it are not amenable to reason - they believe in illusions. That's what The Book says, the only thing left to the Eastern Islanders by their ancestors.But when a strange man washes ashore and Leia meets a Fool face to face, her life will never be the same. Is what she and her friends believe about the Island really true?Or is everyone in their world, in fact, a Fool? Buy on Amazon
*****
The Waves #2 The Island SeriesThe first memory I have of my grandfather is of a moment that we share together. I'm sitting on his knee looking out over the harbor. Grandpa is smoking a pipe. He points at the horizon."Look, Walt. Our ships are out there. And one day, another even more beautiful ship will appear at the horizon. A mighty ship to take us all away. And Annabelle will be at the front deck with open arms, inviting us all to join her on board.""Why don't we sail to her ourselves?" I inquire wide-eyed."Because she promised she would come," granddad replies. "And in that promise we trust. It's only the Unbelievers who think they can do everything themselves. They have no faith in the Goddess."Walt lives in Hope Harbor, an island community that has put its trust in salvation from across the sea. The townspeople wait patiently, build their ships to sail out and welcome the Goddess, and piously visit the temple every week. Horror stories to scare their children are told about the Unbelievers on the other side of Tresco.But not all is what it seems. Walt has questions that no one can answer, and when his best friend and cousin Yorrick is killed in an accident, he digs deeper to find out the truth about the origins of Hope Harbor's society... and the secrets of the temple.Return to the world of The Island and discover what Walt's life was like before and after he met Leia!Buy on Amazon*****
The Deep #3 The Island Series‘The world is never-ending.I never realized just how much space there is – how far and wide the water around our island stretches out. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I may have believed that a second Wall ran around Tresco, containing the infinite waters so we wouldn’t all wash over the edge and plummet down into the depths.’ Leia and Walt are on their way to the Other Side, where the legendary land of Cornwall awaits them. Tony, their new friend, has told them that all wars of the past have been forgotten and the citizens of Bodmin and Dartmoor live in peace. People adhere to the tenets of an old religion that preaches forgiveness and non-violence.However, Walt and Leia soon discover that even a peace-loving, ideal society like this one may have its flaws. While on a forbidden trip to Exeter, the old city of their ancestors, the two Islanders discover more about the new world than they ever bargained for. Secrets run dark and passions run deep in this thrilling conclusion to the Island novella series.Coming soon - view on Goodreads
*****
May 5, 2014
Hot Calender Reads: May
It's 2014 and we're celebrating with an awesome fantasy themed calendar. This calendar is for the background on your computer and you can get this month's image below.
Each month will feature a different book or series, so if you want to challenge yourself, try reading each book or series that is featured before each month is over. The series for May is The Age of Alandria Series by Morgan Wylie! This month also marks the one year book birthday for Silent Orchids, the first book in the series. Morgan is also giving away a $20 Amazon Gift Card, so don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter at the bottom of the post!
Click here to download the full size image. Then set as your background!
Silent Orchids (The Age of Alandria:Book One)
A dying realm.
The ancient evil of the Droch-Shúil has been unleashed.
The Orchids have been silenced… but for how long?
Daegan, elite of the Ferrishyn warrior tribe of Faeries, is charged with a mission to find the Sol-lumieth, a mysterious new power that could change the fate of all in the realm of Alandria. But he is conflicted by his purpose, and he cannot trust the motives of those he serves. He has too many questions and they must be answered.
Kaeleigh, a girl abandoned as a small child just outside Missoula, Montana, is now 18. She is trying to discover who she is and where she belongs. In her heart, she feels she has family out there… somewhere. Desperate to unravel the mysteries of her past, she embarks on a journey that will forever change her along with her two best friends, Finn and Chel—who have secrets of their own.
Get your free ebook copy!Amazon| Other Formats
Veiled Shadows (The Age of Alandria: Book 2)
Shadows linger where light is obstructed, and truth is veiled.
Evil is an untreated disease in the once beautiful realm of Alandria.
Kaeleigh is faced with a revelation that she must reconcile. She will decide if discovering the truth is worth the unknown consequences to both herself and her friends.
Daegan, the Ferrishyn warrior, is conflicted by more than his loyalties, and is confronted with emotions he doesn’t know how to deal with. A choice must be made. A choice… that may cost him more than he ever wanted to give.
The Droch-Shúil—enforcers and servants of the ancient darkness—continue to cast their shadow over Alandria seeking those who can be turned to their side.
The magic of The Orchids is growing, but not everyone will survive what is to come.
Veiled Shadows is the second installment in The Age of Alandria series: the story of the Sol-lumieth’s quest for freedom of self and the power to battle the evil of the Droch-Shúil.
Amazon| Other Formats
Daegan (The Age of Alandria: A Companion Novella)
Everyone has a story, and Daegan's began with darkness...
As a child, Daegan Waethní witnessed the murder of both his parents. He buried the tragedy in the past, desperate to forget, but the past seems to be haunting him from the Beyond. Now he is an Elite in the royal guard for the Paladin, the rulers of Feraánmar. A loyal Ferrishyn Faerie warrior, he battles the darkness that is once again stirring in Alandria.
Things are not what they seem in Alandria, and Daegan must find light before the darkness consumes himself and all he cares about. Against his will, the darkness is using him to destroy his own people. Daegan is determined to fight it with all that he is, but will it be too late? And if he can’t stop it, who will he hurt next?
Amazon
Author Bio:
Morgan Wylie, originally from the Pacific Northwest, now resides near Nashville, TN with her husband and daughter. She and her husband work everyday at their individual and combined creative pursuits while she learns to balance being “Mama”, wife, and mediator to the many voices and muses constantly chattering in her head.
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Giveaway:a Rafflecopter giveaway
Each month will feature a different book or series, so if you want to challenge yourself, try reading each book or series that is featured before each month is over. The series for May is The Age of Alandria Series by Morgan Wylie! This month also marks the one year book birthday for Silent Orchids, the first book in the series. Morgan is also giving away a $20 Amazon Gift Card, so don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter at the bottom of the post!
Click here to download the full size image. Then set as your background!
Silent Orchids (The Age of Alandria:Book One)
A dying realm.
The ancient evil of the Droch-Shúil has been unleashed.
The Orchids have been silenced… but for how long?
Daegan, elite of the Ferrishyn warrior tribe of Faeries, is charged with a mission to find the Sol-lumieth, a mysterious new power that could change the fate of all in the realm of Alandria. But he is conflicted by his purpose, and he cannot trust the motives of those he serves. He has too many questions and they must be answered.
Kaeleigh, a girl abandoned as a small child just outside Missoula, Montana, is now 18. She is trying to discover who she is and where she belongs. In her heart, she feels she has family out there… somewhere. Desperate to unravel the mysteries of her past, she embarks on a journey that will forever change her along with her two best friends, Finn and Chel—who have secrets of their own.
Get your free ebook copy!Amazon| Other Formats
Veiled Shadows (The Age of Alandria: Book 2)
Shadows linger where light is obstructed, and truth is veiled.
Evil is an untreated disease in the once beautiful realm of Alandria.
Kaeleigh is faced with a revelation that she must reconcile. She will decide if discovering the truth is worth the unknown consequences to both herself and her friends.
Daegan, the Ferrishyn warrior, is conflicted by more than his loyalties, and is confronted with emotions he doesn’t know how to deal with. A choice must be made. A choice… that may cost him more than he ever wanted to give.
The Droch-Shúil—enforcers and servants of the ancient darkness—continue to cast their shadow over Alandria seeking those who can be turned to their side.
The magic of The Orchids is growing, but not everyone will survive what is to come.
Veiled Shadows is the second installment in The Age of Alandria series: the story of the Sol-lumieth’s quest for freedom of self and the power to battle the evil of the Droch-Shúil.
Amazon| Other Formats
Daegan (The Age of Alandria: A Companion Novella)
Everyone has a story, and Daegan's began with darkness...
As a child, Daegan Waethní witnessed the murder of both his parents. He buried the tragedy in the past, desperate to forget, but the past seems to be haunting him from the Beyond. Now he is an Elite in the royal guard for the Paladin, the rulers of Feraánmar. A loyal Ferrishyn Faerie warrior, he battles the darkness that is once again stirring in Alandria.
Things are not what they seem in Alandria, and Daegan must find light before the darkness consumes himself and all he cares about. Against his will, the darkness is using him to destroy his own people. Daegan is determined to fight it with all that he is, but will it be too late? And if he can’t stop it, who will he hurt next?
Amazon
Author Bio:
Morgan Wylie, originally from the Pacific Northwest, now resides near Nashville, TN with her husband and daughter. She and her husband work everyday at their individual and combined creative pursuits while she learns to balance being “Mama”, wife, and mediator to the many voices and muses constantly chattering in her head.
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Giveaway:a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 1, 2014
Win a #KindleFire and Get Some Great Books
WIN A Kindle Fire!Enter for a chance to win a Kindle Fire! Also, to help start you out on your new Kindle Fire, you'll also win a kindle book from each of out Sponsors. Here's just one of the great books you'll win.
Chasing Azrael (Deathly Insanity)
By Hazel Butler
When Andee Tilbrook's husband died, her preoccupation with death turned to obsession. Thanks to her unique ability to commune with the dead, her husband remains all too close, yet never close enough. Mired in grief, she clings to James's spirit, slowly losing touch with the world, her friends, and any desire to continue living.
But when her friend Josh becomes the target of Natalya, a jealous, capricious and violent Russian beauty, Andee somehow finds the strength to free herself from her misery long enough to help him. They soon discover that Natalya is wanted by the police for her involvement in a series of grisly murders, and Andee is dragged into the inquiry by the same man who investigated her own husband's death.
Torn between new feelings for Josh, and fear that he might be involved in the murders that seem to threaten anyone who comes close, Andee must face the realities of her life, her past, and her very nature-and do it all in time to save her own life.
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/QKKHe6 Amazon US: http://amzn.to/RRWDM6
About the Author:
Hazel is a twenty eight year old author, artist and archaeologist from Cheshire, England. She is currently in the final year of her PhD, which focuses on Gender Dynamics in Late Iron Age and Early Medieval Britain. She has been studying archaeology since she was sixteen, attending The University of Manchester for her Undergraduate course in Ancient History and Archaeology, then Bangor University for an MA in Celtic Archaeology and on to her PhD. She spent two years between her MA and PhD doing corporate archaeology and research excavations, both in Britain and in Austria, and has two papers published in international journals.
Since 2010 she has been working on a series of Gothic Literary novels, the first of which, Chasing Azrael, was released in April 2014. The Deathly Insanity Series are a set of Paranormal Mystery novels with overlapping character and plot-lines. While her primary interests are in Gothic and Fantasy art and fiction, she reads a wide range of subjects and enjoys most forms of art. She also has a great love of dogs, and her King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, Dexter (yes, after the serial killer), is her near-constant companion.
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Be sure to check out the great Sponsors of this Giveaway:Embers at GaldrileneTears of WarTogether ApartLet Me GoCaptured AgainRise of the Goddess: Divine AwakeningsA Prescription for DeliriumThe Forever GirlSummonedChasing AzraelThe Forgotten OnesThe Reading LessonsThe Making of Nebraska BrownReady For YouShadow WolfThe Survivors Book I: SummerDarwin's ChildrenA Ranger's TaleThe Bo(d)y Next DoorThe SeanceDesires (A Legacy Novel)FrostwalkerThe Boy From the WoodsCharmed VengeanceThunderstormEmpathThe List of FiveEating SarahThe Zodiac CollectorThe Raie'ChaeliaSworn To RaiseThe ExtractorWings of ShadowMad for YouCall Sign KarmaFragile Bonds
Chasing Azrael (Deathly Insanity) By Hazel Butler
When Andee Tilbrook's husband died, her preoccupation with death turned to obsession. Thanks to her unique ability to commune with the dead, her husband remains all too close, yet never close enough. Mired in grief, she clings to James's spirit, slowly losing touch with the world, her friends, and any desire to continue living.
But when her friend Josh becomes the target of Natalya, a jealous, capricious and violent Russian beauty, Andee somehow finds the strength to free herself from her misery long enough to help him. They soon discover that Natalya is wanted by the police for her involvement in a series of grisly murders, and Andee is dragged into the inquiry by the same man who investigated her own husband's death.
Torn between new feelings for Josh, and fear that he might be involved in the murders that seem to threaten anyone who comes close, Andee must face the realities of her life, her past, and her very nature-and do it all in time to save her own life.
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/QKKHe6 Amazon US: http://amzn.to/RRWDM6
About the Author:
Hazel is a twenty eight year old author, artist and archaeologist from Cheshire, England. She is currently in the final year of her PhD, which focuses on Gender Dynamics in Late Iron Age and Early Medieval Britain. She has been studying archaeology since she was sixteen, attending The University of Manchester for her Undergraduate course in Ancient History and Archaeology, then Bangor University for an MA in Celtic Archaeology and on to her PhD. She spent two years between her MA and PhD doing corporate archaeology and research excavations, both in Britain and in Austria, and has two papers published in international journals.
Since 2010 she has been working on a series of Gothic Literary novels, the first of which, Chasing Azrael, was released in April 2014. The Deathly Insanity Series are a set of Paranormal Mystery novels with overlapping character and plot-lines. While her primary interests are in Gothic and Fantasy art and fiction, she reads a wide range of subjects and enjoys most forms of art. She also has a great love of dogs, and her King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, Dexter (yes, after the serial killer), is her near-constant companion.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Be sure to check out the great Sponsors of this Giveaway:Embers at GaldrileneTears of WarTogether ApartLet Me GoCaptured AgainRise of the Goddess: Divine AwakeningsA Prescription for DeliriumThe Forever GirlSummonedChasing AzraelThe Forgotten OnesThe Reading LessonsThe Making of Nebraska BrownReady For YouShadow WolfThe Survivors Book I: SummerDarwin's ChildrenA Ranger's TaleThe Bo(d)y Next DoorThe SeanceDesires (A Legacy Novel)FrostwalkerThe Boy From the WoodsCharmed VengeanceThunderstormEmpathThe List of FiveEating SarahThe Zodiac CollectorThe Raie'ChaeliaSworn To RaiseThe ExtractorWings of ShadowMad for YouCall Sign KarmaFragile Bonds
