Krista Ames's Blog, page 129
October 14, 2012
Author, author...
...read all about it !!
Today we have a spotlight,
Passion's Pain
by
Ella Jade
One woman,...two men. Who will she choose? The father or the son?
Lilli Daniels has been down on her luck for quite some time. She's been homeless, hungry and alone for far too long. When an intriguing, older stranger enters the strip club where she's waitressing her life takes on a new direction.
Successful attorney Jackson Avis maintains complete control of every aspect in his life. When he lays eyes on the beautiful, young Lilli he's captivated and has to have her. He tempts her with a life of privilege and security. He introduces her to a world she never knew existed. Complications arise when Jackson's son and aspiring doctor Cameron expresses an interest in his father's girlfriend.
Lilli fights the attraction, but Cameron wants to give into his heart's desire. He's the complete opposite of his controlling, manipulative father and will stop at nothing to protect the woman he's falling in love with.
Sometimes life leads you down one path only to bring you to your true destiny. Can Lilli come to terms and figure out exactly who her heart belongs to?
Excerpt
Lilli glanced down at the floor for a few seconds before looking up and giving Jack a small smile. Her long black hair fell down the center of her back and curled slightly at the ends. Her eyes were a most alluring color. Jack couldn’t tell for sure in the dim lighting, but they almost appeared violet. He’d never encountered such a unique woman before. He knew right away a girl like her didn’t belong in a shit-hole like this.
“What would you like?” She looked down at the pad she held and waited for his order.
“For you to have a seat.” He got up, pulled the chair out, and then motioned for her to sit.
“What? No, I can’t. I’m working.”
Jack looked around and noted it wasn’t that busy.
“I think you can sit for a few minutes.” He smiled. “Pat said you should give me what I want.”
“I-I don’t do that.” She shook her head. "Some of the other girls here do, but not me."
“I’m only asking you to sit and I rarely ask twice.” He felt a sense of relief knowing she didn't prostitute herself to the customers in this disgusting place. “Please.”
“Just for a few minutes.” She looked around the bar and then quickly took a seat.
“It’s nice to meet you, Lilli,” he said. “Do you have a last name?”
“I do.” She was too busy looking into his eyes that he thought maybe she forgot to finish answering.
Jack smiled and cleared his throat when he realized she was staring at him.
“Oh, it’s Daniels.”
“I see. What do you do besides work here, Lilli Daniels?”
“I work at the bookstore over at the community college,” she said. “I’m hoping to save enough money to take a few classes there in the fall.”
“It’s only January,” Jack said. “Why wait so long?”
“Classes are expensive.” She nervously fidgeted with the cocktail napkin sitting on the table. “So, what do you do?”
“I’m an attorney. I have my own practice in the city.”
“Oh, that sounds interesting. I’d like to study law someday, too.”
“A pretty ambitious goal.” He teased. “How old are you?”
“Twenty-two.”
Well, at least she's legal. But, for a girl working in a strip club trying to save money for school, she seemed awfully naïve. He briefly wondered if it was an act to get men to feel sorry for her. Maybe she knew exactly how to get a bigger tip out of her customers.
“Getting a bit of a late start with school, aren’t you?” Jack asked. “My son is about your age and he's in medical school.”
“My father’s not an attorney.” She ran her fingers through her hair and Jack immediately recognized she was uncomfortable when she mentioned her father. The lawyer in him needed to investigate a little further.
“What does your father do?”
“Are you ready to order?” she said. “I should be getting back to work.”
“Not just yet.” He wondered why she changed the subject so quickly. “I’m curious as to what a girl like you is doing in a place like this.”
“Me, too.” She looked around the dark room. “I fell on some hard times and I’m just trying to get my life back together. It’s honest work.”
“What kind of hard times?” He was trying not to interrogate her, but he wanted to know more about her.
“I can tell you’re a lawyer.” Her full pink lips curved into a smile. Jackson wondered what it would feel like to have her mouth against his. She was probably soft and warm.
“It’s in my nature to ask questions.” He wanted to know more about this beauty.
“Do you always get your answers?”
“I always get everything I want.” He let his eyes wander down her body. She was flawless, but he shouldn't have been entertaining any possibilities at all. But then again, when did he ever let anything stop him from getting what he wanted?
Jack reached into his pocket, pulled out his business card, and handed it to her. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. “I have to get back to the office now, but I’ve rather enjoyed your company. If Pat gives you a hard time, please give me a call. I’ll set him straight.” He knew he should leave her alone. He wasn't sure he’d be interested in getting involved with a girl in her situation, but he wasn’t ready to walk away. Not yet.
She glanced down at the card. “I went to high school with a Cameron Avis.”
“Did you date?” That would be far too amusing.
“Oh, God no.” She laughed. “He was a year older than me, popular, and would never give a girl like me a second glance. I was from the wrong side of the tracks.” She rolled her eyes.
“Hmm.” Jack began to get a clearer picture of who Lilli was.
“I was shy and kept to myself,” she said. “He was gorgeous, smart, and came from money. Definitely not my type."
“Really?” Jack grinned as he got up from the table. “It seems to me I’ll have to have a talk with my son about not recognizing a good thing when he sees it.”
“Oh.”
Secret Cravings Buy Link
The Trailer
Youtube Link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEEpYCIOBMI&feature=plcp
Embed code:
About Ella…
Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.
Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.
Site Facebook Author Page Twitter
Today we have a spotlight,
Passion's Pain by
Ella Jade
One woman,...two men. Who will she choose? The father or the son?
Lilli Daniels has been down on her luck for quite some time. She's been homeless, hungry and alone for far too long. When an intriguing, older stranger enters the strip club where she's waitressing her life takes on a new direction.
Successful attorney Jackson Avis maintains complete control of every aspect in his life. When he lays eyes on the beautiful, young Lilli he's captivated and has to have her. He tempts her with a life of privilege and security. He introduces her to a world she never knew existed. Complications arise when Jackson's son and aspiring doctor Cameron expresses an interest in his father's girlfriend.
Lilli fights the attraction, but Cameron wants to give into his heart's desire. He's the complete opposite of his controlling, manipulative father and will stop at nothing to protect the woman he's falling in love with.
Sometimes life leads you down one path only to bring you to your true destiny. Can Lilli come to terms and figure out exactly who her heart belongs to?
Excerpt
Lilli glanced down at the floor for a few seconds before looking up and giving Jack a small smile. Her long black hair fell down the center of her back and curled slightly at the ends. Her eyes were a most alluring color. Jack couldn’t tell for sure in the dim lighting, but they almost appeared violet. He’d never encountered such a unique woman before. He knew right away a girl like her didn’t belong in a shit-hole like this. “What would you like?” She looked down at the pad she held and waited for his order.
“For you to have a seat.” He got up, pulled the chair out, and then motioned for her to sit.
“What? No, I can’t. I’m working.”
Jack looked around and noted it wasn’t that busy.
“I think you can sit for a few minutes.” He smiled. “Pat said you should give me what I want.”
“I-I don’t do that.” She shook her head. "Some of the other girls here do, but not me."
“I’m only asking you to sit and I rarely ask twice.” He felt a sense of relief knowing she didn't prostitute herself to the customers in this disgusting place. “Please.”
“Just for a few minutes.” She looked around the bar and then quickly took a seat.
“It’s nice to meet you, Lilli,” he said. “Do you have a last name?”
“I do.” She was too busy looking into his eyes that he thought maybe she forgot to finish answering.
Jack smiled and cleared his throat when he realized she was staring at him.
“Oh, it’s Daniels.”
“I see. What do you do besides work here, Lilli Daniels?”
“I work at the bookstore over at the community college,” she said. “I’m hoping to save enough money to take a few classes there in the fall.”
“It’s only January,” Jack said. “Why wait so long?”
“Classes are expensive.” She nervously fidgeted with the cocktail napkin sitting on the table. “So, what do you do?”
“I’m an attorney. I have my own practice in the city.”
“Oh, that sounds interesting. I’d like to study law someday, too.”
“A pretty ambitious goal.” He teased. “How old are you?”
“Twenty-two.”
Well, at least she's legal. But, for a girl working in a strip club trying to save money for school, she seemed awfully naïve. He briefly wondered if it was an act to get men to feel sorry for her. Maybe she knew exactly how to get a bigger tip out of her customers.
“Getting a bit of a late start with school, aren’t you?” Jack asked. “My son is about your age and he's in medical school.”
“My father’s not an attorney.” She ran her fingers through her hair and Jack immediately recognized she was uncomfortable when she mentioned her father. The lawyer in him needed to investigate a little further.
“What does your father do?”
“Are you ready to order?” she said. “I should be getting back to work.”
“Not just yet.” He wondered why she changed the subject so quickly. “I’m curious as to what a girl like you is doing in a place like this.”
“Me, too.” She looked around the dark room. “I fell on some hard times and I’m just trying to get my life back together. It’s honest work.”
“What kind of hard times?” He was trying not to interrogate her, but he wanted to know more about her.
“I can tell you’re a lawyer.” Her full pink lips curved into a smile. Jackson wondered what it would feel like to have her mouth against his. She was probably soft and warm.
“It’s in my nature to ask questions.” He wanted to know more about this beauty.
“Do you always get your answers?”
“I always get everything I want.” He let his eyes wander down her body. She was flawless, but he shouldn't have been entertaining any possibilities at all. But then again, when did he ever let anything stop him from getting what he wanted?
Jack reached into his pocket, pulled out his business card, and handed it to her. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. “I have to get back to the office now, but I’ve rather enjoyed your company. If Pat gives you a hard time, please give me a call. I’ll set him straight.” He knew he should leave her alone. He wasn't sure he’d be interested in getting involved with a girl in her situation, but he wasn’t ready to walk away. Not yet.
She glanced down at the card. “I went to high school with a Cameron Avis.”
“Did you date?” That would be far too amusing.
“Oh, God no.” She laughed. “He was a year older than me, popular, and would never give a girl like me a second glance. I was from the wrong side of the tracks.” She rolled her eyes.
“Hmm.” Jack began to get a clearer picture of who Lilli was.
“I was shy and kept to myself,” she said. “He was gorgeous, smart, and came from money. Definitely not my type."
“Really?” Jack grinned as he got up from the table. “It seems to me I’ll have to have a talk with my son about not recognizing a good thing when he sees it.”
“Oh.”
Secret Cravings Buy Link
The Trailer
Youtube Link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEEpYCIOBMI&feature=plcp
Embed code:
About Ella…
Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.
Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.
Site Facebook Author Page Twitter
October 11, 2012
Author, author... #giveaway
...read all about it !!!Today we have a spotlight on The Midnight Cup plus a giveaway of one digital copy to a lucky winner.
The Midnight Cup by Misty Burke
The Midnight Cup is a story that follows the romance between a white witch and her man...turned slayer...turned vampire...turned Marcus McKinney is a trained member of the Society and a vampire slayer. With an ancient hieroglyphic tattoo to ward off his own personal demons, he travels to a small college town in the Midwest. It is here that he finds The Midnight Cup. A quaint coffee house with a backroom...filled with vampires. The owner of this little establishment is Serenity Baker. She is a natural. With her long blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes, she is a beautiful white witch that offers light magic with a simple touch. It is this power that draws the coven of vampires to her small coffee shop which in turn brings Marcus into her life. The Midnight Cup tells their story amidst a brewing war. With a circle of witches, a coven of vampires, and a league of Society members, who knows what could happen next. Excerpt:Standing in the moonlight, he watched the neon sign blink in the window of the coffee house across the street. College kids came and went around him. Yet none seemed to notice his presence. The stranger had spent years learning to blend into the shadows.
The night hours slowly passed. It wasn’t until he could feel the coming dawn that he strode across the street and walked inside. Only a few students were left as he took a seat at a corner table. He was keenly aware that the backroom was now empty and this fact pleased the woman behind the counter.
Oddly though, she hadn’t stopped staring at him since he entered. The delicate beauty could somehow see through his shades of practiced darkness and it unnerved him. The tattoo that circled his left bicep felt like it tightened.
They locked eyes as she approached. “What are you?” She leaned in and pretended to wipe down his table.
“I was just wondering the same thing about you.” She reminded him of a skittish foal. He reached out to touch her hand and she jerked back.
“Is that why you’re here?” Looking hurt, then angry, she motioned to the door. “Get out.”
“You’ve got this all wrong.” The stranger shook his head in confusion and then pointed toward the red curtain. “I’m here to help you with your little…problem.”
She froze and gave him a long, hard look. “I’ll ask you again. What are you?”
He pulled a large wooden stake out of his trench coat and laid it on the table. “I’m a slayer.”
She sat down at his table and spoke with soft, hesitant words. “Are you part of the Society?”
The question hung in the air as he watched tiny sparkles of gold dance in her light blue eyes. Unknowingly, he reached for her again. The jolt of electricity that followed caused him to take in a quick breath of air. The surge was sudden and left warmth. Staring down at their point of contact, his large hand covering hers, he smiled in awe. “I’m Marcus McKinney. And yes, I’m with the Society.”
“Then you know I’m a natural,” she paused only a moment, “don’t you?”
The glowing warmth evaporated as quickly as it had arrived. In one fluid motion, he disconnected from her and picked up the stake. Damn it, Josh. This was not in your report. He hid the weapon back in the folds of his trench coat and questioned his next move. There wasn’t supposed to be any other paranormal element. The Society might care, but his fight was only with the vampires. This white witch was not his problem.
The woman across from him looked so innocent. “Whatever it is that causes your heart to darken…”
The slayer pushed back his chair and stood. “Let’s get this straight. I’ve no interest in your natural magic or your pity. My assignment is only the coven of vampires you harbor. Don’t get in my way.”
****
Serenity didn’t have to watch him leave. She could feel it. This slayer, with his curly brown hair and eyes the color of dark chocolate, had an aura she hadn’t experienced before. It was more complex and torn than the simplicity of a human. Yet it didn’t have the vast emptiness of the vampire either. His soul was different, unique, hidden in shadow. Marcus McKinney was circled with a deep fog. There were layers to this man she just couldn’t see and that intrigued her.
In fact, she couldn’t think of much else as she closed up the coffee shop. Even after saying goodbye to her staff and locking the doors, she couldn’t get him out of her mind. It was clear to her that his fight with Ivan’s clan was personal. For he might be shaped like a slayer, with years of physical training, but there was more to him than that. Marcus wasn’t just another Society drone. He couldn’t be.
Buy Links: Evernight Publishing Amazon All Romance eBooks Bookstrand
Author Bio:
My Name is Misty Burke and I live in the Romantic Ozark Mountains with my supportive husband and our four wonderful children. When I'm not enjoying family time, I love to write steamy romances. Creating exciting fantasy worlds filled with dangerously handsome heroes is one of my passions.My favorite writing quote is... The best time for planning a book is while you're doing the dishes. ~Agatha Christie
Author Links: Site Facebook
Misty is giving away one digital copy of her book. Make sure you visit the Rafflecopter!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks for stopping by today, until next time, happy reading!!
Krista
October 10, 2012
Author, author...
...read all about it !!!
Today we have a spotlight in the tour for
When Copper Suns Fallby
KaSonndra Leigh
This is the Expanded Edition which now includes previously unpublished scenes and a handbook for surviving in the futuristic world of Castle Hayne.
In fifteen-year-old Chela Prizeon’s city, alchemy is forbidden and angels hide among the mortal. With a deadly virus ravaging the globe, Chela’s nightmarish memories compels her to experience a past riddled with gloom, and now her brother is infected. Chela’s only hope is the Caduceans, slayers sworn to protect the last seven Light Keepers and the ancient memories they share. A group led by the sometimes elusive, sometimes infuriating boy who intrigues Chela. But can she trust this boy with the mysterious past, someone who can influence her memories? With the Caduceans aid, Chela races to defeat her rivals, to unearth dark family secrets, and to find a cure…only to discover the glutovirus is far more than a simple disease.
In this haunting debut, KaSonndra Leigh offers an escape into a world filled with celestial creatures, fascinating villainy, high-stake choices, and a secret romance, When Copper Suns Fall, is a fresh and original urban fantasy—with a dystopian twist—that will take readers on an unforgettable adventure.
Excerpt #1
Forcing my eyes open, I found myself outside the Shack. I was standing in Faris’s arms, my head against his chest, my fingers entwined in his black vest. It was a shiny, smooth fabric that felt like silk. Something nobody had worn outside of ceremonies since before the Tidal Years. This boy was no common citizen.
His earthy-sweet smell was different, intoxicating. He had saved me from whatever just happened back in the Shack. I didn’t expect to be rescued. I expected to be slaughtered or tortured, or something. So what brought on the change? We stood among the crowd fleeing down the hillside. He lifted my chin, stared in my eyes. But this wasn’t some dumb player’s move. No, a mysterious thing stirred behind his silvery-gray eyes.
“Feel better, now?” he asked. I nodded.
“Thanks for helping me,” I said, still fighting a light head. Still afraid the dreaded black blobs lingered somewhere around us. Somewhat ashamed I’d spoken so horribly to him moments ago.
“You probably shouldn’t do that,” he said.
“Do what?”
“Thank me.”
“Why? Because I caught you and your friends using alchemy? That’s what your kind does, right?” I said, feeling a strange mix of excitement and fear. Until this day, I’d always believed there weren’t any other angel-bloods left besides Micah and me. I wanted to believe that someday I’d find at least one other person like us, that we weren’t alone in a world that hates my kind. And now the thing representing my hopes and fears and everything I dreamt of coming true stood here with me.
“Tell me it’s not true. I need to hear you say it,” I whispered.
His left eye ticked. The girl in the hoodie had called him a shadow walker, a nickname for the Caducean demon slayers. Could it be possible? Father told me Caduceans were mythical creatures—descendants of angels from a time long gone. Yet, here I stood with a boy who didn’t deny my claim.
Around us, fewer people were leaving the club. They paid no attention to the two idiots standing and staring at each other. Had Jalen and Alexa gotten out? They were taking forever to reach me.
Did I really want them to find me?
“The Judges will call on me now. They’ll make me a witness against you. I’m sorry, but I already have too many problems. So I—I have to tell the truth,” I said.
“That won’t be a problem.” Faris smiled, a catchy one that lit his face up. I couldn’t decide whether it was angelic or downright wicked. “You won’t remember me, or any of this in a minute.”
“Really? How do you figure that?” I asked, heart racing.
“Because my gift to you…” He moved his face closer to mine, pulling me into whatever was happening in his head. “My gift is to remove memories that cause you pain.”
“Okay, um, right.” Had I lost my mind? It probably wouldn’t have hurt to scream.
He held my gaze, locking me into something I couldn’t explain. Soon, a tear puckered up in his left eye, and slid down his cheek where it stopped on his top lip. Then he blinked, snapping us out of whatever place he’d taken us to, and glanced behind my head. “Here comes your dark knight,” he said, easing his arms away from me.
He strolled off into the last group of stragglers hanging around the Shack. How did he know my nickname for Jalen?
I wiped away a tear rolling down my right cheek. A strange haze crept into my mind as if invisible fingers were shuffling through my memories.
Excerpt #2
Scurrying down the theatre’s deserted hallway, I came to the women’s bathroom and grabbed the knob. Nervousness was working overtime on my rationality, I guess. I pulled the handle. The lever didn’t budge. My bladder expanded by the second. Wonderful. Surely the Thalian’s staff kept repair people on duty.
I turned back to the knob, yanking it again and again. Why did they lock the doors on a day like this? Laser eye power would come in handy right about now.
I crossed my arms, uncrossed them, tapped my foot, and flirted with the idea of using a memory technique. But that’s how I ended up standing here kicking a door. Nerves rolled up in me. All I could think about was facing the crowds while I smelled like urine. Maybe not taking the ale-meds made me weaker.
“Don’t panic yet. Figure out something,” I said aloud.
“Door troubles?” A boy’s calm voice spoke behind me.
Horrified I’d been caught talking to a door, I turned to face a dark-haired boy a few years older than me. Wavy silver strands framed his face. He wore a silky, smoked gray shirt, opened to expose a star-shaped tattoo at his throat. He stared at me with blue-black eyes that had no reflection of anything in them. They were the darkest, lovely blue I’d ever seen. I blinked and lowered mine.
“I—I, it’s locked, I think,” I said to the floor.
“Let’s have a look.” He reached over me and pulled the door open as if it were a feather. “See. Magic. Put your mind to it, well then, anybody can do it.”
My cheeks burned. “Thanks, um…”
“Seth Alton.” He held out his hand, long and svelte like the rest of him. An earthy scent surrounded him. It reminded me of the incense Alexa’s mom used to cover the watery smells inside their house sitting beside the marshes.
“I’m Chela. Wish I could talk more, but I…”
He laughed softly. “Duties first, of course.”
Those blue-black eyes stared at me. No blinking, or anything. He moved closer to my neck, sniffing the air around me. “Nice scent. What is it?”
“Lotus. I—I, um, it used to belong to my mother.”
“Used to?” He raised his left eyebrow, something I thought only girls could do so well. It intrigued me in a strange way.
“My mother is, well um, she died when we were babies. I—I wear her old perfume for luck,” I said.
Okay, so why are you stuttering?
“We?” he asked.
“My twin. But he’s, um, not here today,” I said, chest filling with a tinge of sadness.
“Sorry to hear that. About your mother and brother, that is.” He moved back, freeing me from whatever thing I needed to relieve myself from. He wore no clothing that offered any evidence as to what group he belonged to.
“She died two months after we were born. So it’s—I don’t remember her.” I truly didn’t understand why I chose to reveal my private stuff with this stranger. If I stood around talking much longer, I’d probably be asking him to come home for ale-med tips.
“Luck to you today. Although, I’m sure you won’t need any. Don’t get lost on the way back. These hallways are…tricky,” he said. I nodded like a mute standing there plastered against the wall beside the door. “We’ll see each other again soon, Chela Ceylone.”
He gave a short bow and strolled away.
Seth turned the corner. I peeled myself off the wall and exhaled. Wait, I didn’t even realize I’d been holding my breath. I glanced at the handle, stepped into the bathroom, but stopped in the doorway. Seth called me Chela Ceylone.
Only Father and Micah knew my middle name. Available now on Amazon.
About the Author:
KaSonndra Leigh was born in Charlotte, North Carolina. She now lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, North Carolina. Her two sons, aka the X-Men, have made her promise to write a boy book next.
She holds the MFA in creative writing, and loves to play CLUE, Monopoly (the Indiana Jones version), and Pandora's Box (good writer's block therapy). She lives in an L-shaped house with a garden dedicated to her grandmother. It has a secret library complete with fairies, Venetian plastered walls, and a desk made out of clear blue glass.
Website / Facebook / Twitter
Today we have a spotlight in the tour for When Copper Suns Fallby
KaSonndra Leigh
This is the Expanded Edition which now includes previously unpublished scenes and a handbook for surviving in the futuristic world of Castle Hayne.
In fifteen-year-old Chela Prizeon’s city, alchemy is forbidden and angels hide among the mortal. With a deadly virus ravaging the globe, Chela’s nightmarish memories compels her to experience a past riddled with gloom, and now her brother is infected. Chela’s only hope is the Caduceans, slayers sworn to protect the last seven Light Keepers and the ancient memories they share. A group led by the sometimes elusive, sometimes infuriating boy who intrigues Chela. But can she trust this boy with the mysterious past, someone who can influence her memories? With the Caduceans aid, Chela races to defeat her rivals, to unearth dark family secrets, and to find a cure…only to discover the glutovirus is far more than a simple disease. In this haunting debut, KaSonndra Leigh offers an escape into a world filled with celestial creatures, fascinating villainy, high-stake choices, and a secret romance, When Copper Suns Fall, is a fresh and original urban fantasy—with a dystopian twist—that will take readers on an unforgettable adventure.
Excerpt #1
Forcing my eyes open, I found myself outside the Shack. I was standing in Faris’s arms, my head against his chest, my fingers entwined in his black vest. It was a shiny, smooth fabric that felt like silk. Something nobody had worn outside of ceremonies since before the Tidal Years. This boy was no common citizen.
His earthy-sweet smell was different, intoxicating. He had saved me from whatever just happened back in the Shack. I didn’t expect to be rescued. I expected to be slaughtered or tortured, or something. So what brought on the change? We stood among the crowd fleeing down the hillside. He lifted my chin, stared in my eyes. But this wasn’t some dumb player’s move. No, a mysterious thing stirred behind his silvery-gray eyes.
“Feel better, now?” he asked. I nodded.
“Thanks for helping me,” I said, still fighting a light head. Still afraid the dreaded black blobs lingered somewhere around us. Somewhat ashamed I’d spoken so horribly to him moments ago.
“You probably shouldn’t do that,” he said.
“Do what?”
“Thank me.”
“Why? Because I caught you and your friends using alchemy? That’s what your kind does, right?” I said, feeling a strange mix of excitement and fear. Until this day, I’d always believed there weren’t any other angel-bloods left besides Micah and me. I wanted to believe that someday I’d find at least one other person like us, that we weren’t alone in a world that hates my kind. And now the thing representing my hopes and fears and everything I dreamt of coming true stood here with me.
“Tell me it’s not true. I need to hear you say it,” I whispered.
His left eye ticked. The girl in the hoodie had called him a shadow walker, a nickname for the Caducean demon slayers. Could it be possible? Father told me Caduceans were mythical creatures—descendants of angels from a time long gone. Yet, here I stood with a boy who didn’t deny my claim.
Around us, fewer people were leaving the club. They paid no attention to the two idiots standing and staring at each other. Had Jalen and Alexa gotten out? They were taking forever to reach me.
Did I really want them to find me?
“The Judges will call on me now. They’ll make me a witness against you. I’m sorry, but I already have too many problems. So I—I have to tell the truth,” I said.
“That won’t be a problem.” Faris smiled, a catchy one that lit his face up. I couldn’t decide whether it was angelic or downright wicked. “You won’t remember me, or any of this in a minute.”
“Really? How do you figure that?” I asked, heart racing.
“Because my gift to you…” He moved his face closer to mine, pulling me into whatever was happening in his head. “My gift is to remove memories that cause you pain.”
“Okay, um, right.” Had I lost my mind? It probably wouldn’t have hurt to scream.
He held my gaze, locking me into something I couldn’t explain. Soon, a tear puckered up in his left eye, and slid down his cheek where it stopped on his top lip. Then he blinked, snapping us out of whatever place he’d taken us to, and glanced behind my head. “Here comes your dark knight,” he said, easing his arms away from me.
He strolled off into the last group of stragglers hanging around the Shack. How did he know my nickname for Jalen?
I wiped away a tear rolling down my right cheek. A strange haze crept into my mind as if invisible fingers were shuffling through my memories.
Excerpt #2
Scurrying down the theatre’s deserted hallway, I came to the women’s bathroom and grabbed the knob. Nervousness was working overtime on my rationality, I guess. I pulled the handle. The lever didn’t budge. My bladder expanded by the second. Wonderful. Surely the Thalian’s staff kept repair people on duty.
I turned back to the knob, yanking it again and again. Why did they lock the doors on a day like this? Laser eye power would come in handy right about now.
I crossed my arms, uncrossed them, tapped my foot, and flirted with the idea of using a memory technique. But that’s how I ended up standing here kicking a door. Nerves rolled up in me. All I could think about was facing the crowds while I smelled like urine. Maybe not taking the ale-meds made me weaker.
“Don’t panic yet. Figure out something,” I said aloud.
“Door troubles?” A boy’s calm voice spoke behind me. Horrified I’d been caught talking to a door, I turned to face a dark-haired boy a few years older than me. Wavy silver strands framed his face. He wore a silky, smoked gray shirt, opened to expose a star-shaped tattoo at his throat. He stared at me with blue-black eyes that had no reflection of anything in them. They were the darkest, lovely blue I’d ever seen. I blinked and lowered mine.
“I—I, it’s locked, I think,” I said to the floor.
“Let’s have a look.” He reached over me and pulled the door open as if it were a feather. “See. Magic. Put your mind to it, well then, anybody can do it.”
My cheeks burned. “Thanks, um…”
“Seth Alton.” He held out his hand, long and svelte like the rest of him. An earthy scent surrounded him. It reminded me of the incense Alexa’s mom used to cover the watery smells inside their house sitting beside the marshes.
“I’m Chela. Wish I could talk more, but I…”
He laughed softly. “Duties first, of course.”
Those blue-black eyes stared at me. No blinking, or anything. He moved closer to my neck, sniffing the air around me. “Nice scent. What is it?”
“Lotus. I—I, um, it used to belong to my mother.”
“Used to?” He raised his left eyebrow, something I thought only girls could do so well. It intrigued me in a strange way.
“My mother is, well um, she died when we were babies. I—I wear her old perfume for luck,” I said.
Okay, so why are you stuttering?
“We?” he asked.
“My twin. But he’s, um, not here today,” I said, chest filling with a tinge of sadness.
“Sorry to hear that. About your mother and brother, that is.” He moved back, freeing me from whatever thing I needed to relieve myself from. He wore no clothing that offered any evidence as to what group he belonged to.
“She died two months after we were born. So it’s—I don’t remember her.” I truly didn’t understand why I chose to reveal my private stuff with this stranger. If I stood around talking much longer, I’d probably be asking him to come home for ale-med tips.
“Luck to you today. Although, I’m sure you won’t need any. Don’t get lost on the way back. These hallways are…tricky,” he said. I nodded like a mute standing there plastered against the wall beside the door. “We’ll see each other again soon, Chela Ceylone.”
He gave a short bow and strolled away.
Seth turned the corner. I peeled myself off the wall and exhaled. Wait, I didn’t even realize I’d been holding my breath. I glanced at the handle, stepped into the bathroom, but stopped in the doorway. Seth called me Chela Ceylone.
Only Father and Micah knew my middle name. Available now on Amazon.
About the Author:
KaSonndra Leigh was born in Charlotte, North Carolina. She now lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, North Carolina. Her two sons, aka the X-Men, have made her promise to write a boy book next.
She holds the MFA in creative writing, and loves to play CLUE, Monopoly (the Indiana Jones version), and Pandora's Box (good writer's block therapy). She lives in an L-shaped house with a garden dedicated to her grandmother. It has a secret library complete with fairies, Venetian plastered walls, and a desk made out of clear blue glass.
Website / Facebook / Twitter
October 9, 2012
Author, author...
...read all about it!!
Today we have Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy's
Dust Bowl Dreams Blurb: Life’s never easy for a good-hearted man who decides crime is the answer to his troubles. No rain in the summer of 1933 is bad news for Oklahoma farmer Henry Mink. The local banker wants the mortgage on the farm paid and unless Henry comes up with the dough, his widowed mother and four young siblings won’t have a home. Jobs are scarce so he decides to rob a bank. His sweetheart, school teacher Mamie Logan, doesn’t like the idea and neither does Henry’s kid brother Eddie but Henry’s out of options. He leaves home and robs a bank at nearby Ponca City. When he returns home, he pays off the mortgage but new troubles show up. Mamie is his greatest joy and they become engaged but by fall, Henry has no options left but to rob another bank. If he can pull off one another big job, he figures he’ll be set until the hard times are over but few things in life go as planned. His desperate efforts will either secure his future or destroy it forever. If Henry’s family survives and Mamie’s love endures, he’ll need a miracle.
Excerpt: They walked behind the house and past the big barn. A foot worn path led into the field, but a fork veered off right. As they drew closer to the spring, the path narrowed and the number of trees increased. Beneath the cover of the trees, out of sight of the farmhouse, Henry put his arm around her slender waist. They managed to walk together down the single file trail to the spring and settled onto the rustic bench near the water. Henry straddled it so he could face her but Mamie sat in a side saddle posture. Before he could lean forward to snatch a kiss, she reached over to rub his cheek with the back of her fingers. “Tell me you were just being silly a while ago,” she said. “I’ve been worried sick you meant what you said.” Her touch kindled tenderness, but deep in his crotch Mamie’s fingers lit another fire and he inhaled hard. “I did mean it, girl. When I got back to the house, Richardson from the bank sat there, fedora on his knee, badgering Mama for money. He’s planning to foreclose and take the farm unless we come up with the money by the end of July. We sure as hell don’t have it and I don’t know of any other way to get it.” Mamie’s eyes darkened almost black. “I could ask Daddy, Henry. I don’t know if he has it or not, but he might.” “No,” he said, spitting out the word with force. Then he used a softer tone to add, “I appreciate it but I ain’t taking your family’s charity. I’ve made up my mind. I’ll rob a few banks, pay off the mortgage for Mama, get ahead, save some money and then I’ll quit, no harm done.” “It’s wrong,” Mamie said with a troubled expression. “You know it is, Henry.” He did, but damned if he’d admit it now. “What’s wrong is people getting kicked off their families’ land where they’ve lived for generations,” he said. “Banks are wrong to wring the last nickel away from folks. It’s not right for kids to go hungry or old people to do without. I don’t aim to get rich robbing banks, just take back enough to get through these hard times. If I can help a few people on the way, I will. And I don’t plan to kill no lawmen or shoot anyone.” “Oh, Henry,” Mamie said and sighed. “I know almost everybody’s having a terrible time and no one has enough money. I don’t think the banks are being fair either, but two wrongs won’t make it right.” “Money’ll go a long way toward fixing it,” Henry said. “There’s not enough money in the world to make up for it if you get hurt,” Mamie said. “Or if some sheriff hunts you down to take your life. You could end up in prison down at McAlester or dead like Pretty Boy’s bandit friend, Birdwell. Your mama would just be heartbroken if anything happened to you. So would Eddie and the girls. Think about them, Henry.” Mamie might be a smart young lady, but she didn’t understand, not yet anyway. “I am,” he said. “I’m doing this for them. I can’t let them be put out on the road without a home or go live with stingy old Uncle Ed. And I’m worn out watching them go to bed hungry or do without almost everything. They all need shoes and I don’t think poor little Vi’s ever worn a brand new dress.” She grasped his hand and held it so tight it hurt but he liked the connection. “Let me help them, then. I can sew. I saved some of my teacher salary and I could buy some cloth. I wouldn’t have enough to pay off the farm, but I could make the girls some nice little dresses or something.” “Honey, I appreciate it but I can’t let you spend your money on my folks. Mamie, you don’t understand how poor we are, do you?” “I think I do.” “What’d your family have for supper?” His question seemed to surprise her, but she answered. “Mama fried up some salt pork and ‘taters. She opened up a jar of corn she canned last summer and made a nice apple pie with some dried apples. Why?” “We ate green beans seasoned with old bacon grease and onions with cornbread,” he answered. “I don’t think any of us ate enough to fill our bellies or even liked it much, but by God we ate everything Mama cooked. Hunger don’t allow for being picky.” Mamie’s expression shifted. “That’s all you had?” Henry nodded. “Yeah and some nights, it’s even less. Mama meant her garden to see us through summer but the pickings are pretty slim. She waters it with the dish and bath water or it’d be gone, too. We don’t have anything left to butcher and the few chickens still alive and kicking won’t lay eggs. The milk cow died last winter and we haven’t kept pigs since Daddy died. I’d hunt but it’s too damn hot for the meat to be much good and ‘sides, everyone else’s about hunted the game till it’s gone. I pull a few fish out of the river once in a while, but not many fish left either.” He spoke with bitterness in a harsher tone than he’d ever used with Mamie in an effort to drive his point home. To Henry’s surprise she didn’t bluster with outrage but scooted across the bench and put her arms around him. Mamie put her head down against his shoulder and he held her against him. “Henry, I didn’t have any idea it was so bad,” she said. “I guess my head’s been in the clouds and I missed what’s right in front of me.” “You haven’t been home from the school year very long,” Henry said. “Things changed for the worse over the winter, honey.” “I feel awful, though,” she murmured. “Maybe my kids in town, in Alva are just as hard up and I didn’t see it. None of the families I took turns boarding with were as poor as your family or they didn’t seem like it.” “Maybe, maybe not,” Henry said. “This ol’ Depression’s hitting everyone hard, but I think farm folks like us, just barely getting by anyway, got hit the worst so far. It ain’t your fault you didn’t see it. Your family’s doing better than most and you should be glad.” DBD Links: All Romance eBooks Amazon Barnes and Noble Bookstrand Today we asked Lee Ann if she'd like to share a recipe with us. I like to cook and am always looking for new recipes to try and share and she complied. Yay!! This is a real Depression era recipe and what I still use to making icing (frosting). I learned it from my grandmother and it’s cheaper to make than buying the little cans of frosting and it tastes better too. And it’s very simple! Icing
4 tbsp. butter
3 cups confectioner’s sugar
2 tbsp. milk or cream
2 tsp. vanilla
Method
1. Cream butter.
2. Add sugar, diluting mixture with milk or cream.
3. Continue beating until mixture will hold its shape. Then spread on top and sides of cake or cupcakes. This icing is especially good for use with a pastry tube. If you want to make it chocolate add ¾ tablespoons of cocoa. Or you can add a few drops of food coloring to color it blue, green, pink, or yellow.
Amount – icing for 18 cup cakes or 1 large layer cake.
Lee Ann, thanks so much for being here today and sharing Dust Bowl Dreams and your recipe. Readers, don't miss your chance to get this great book! DBD Links:
All Romance eBooks Amazon Barnes and Noble Bookstrand
Until next time, happy reading!! Krista
Today we have Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy'sDust Bowl Dreams Blurb: Life’s never easy for a good-hearted man who decides crime is the answer to his troubles. No rain in the summer of 1933 is bad news for Oklahoma farmer Henry Mink. The local banker wants the mortgage on the farm paid and unless Henry comes up with the dough, his widowed mother and four young siblings won’t have a home. Jobs are scarce so he decides to rob a bank. His sweetheart, school teacher Mamie Logan, doesn’t like the idea and neither does Henry’s kid brother Eddie but Henry’s out of options. He leaves home and robs a bank at nearby Ponca City. When he returns home, he pays off the mortgage but new troubles show up. Mamie is his greatest joy and they become engaged but by fall, Henry has no options left but to rob another bank. If he can pull off one another big job, he figures he’ll be set until the hard times are over but few things in life go as planned. His desperate efforts will either secure his future or destroy it forever. If Henry’s family survives and Mamie’s love endures, he’ll need a miracle.
Excerpt: They walked behind the house and past the big barn. A foot worn path led into the field, but a fork veered off right. As they drew closer to the spring, the path narrowed and the number of trees increased. Beneath the cover of the trees, out of sight of the farmhouse, Henry put his arm around her slender waist. They managed to walk together down the single file trail to the spring and settled onto the rustic bench near the water. Henry straddled it so he could face her but Mamie sat in a side saddle posture. Before he could lean forward to snatch a kiss, she reached over to rub his cheek with the back of her fingers. “Tell me you were just being silly a while ago,” she said. “I’ve been worried sick you meant what you said.” Her touch kindled tenderness, but deep in his crotch Mamie’s fingers lit another fire and he inhaled hard. “I did mean it, girl. When I got back to the house, Richardson from the bank sat there, fedora on his knee, badgering Mama for money. He’s planning to foreclose and take the farm unless we come up with the money by the end of July. We sure as hell don’t have it and I don’t know of any other way to get it.” Mamie’s eyes darkened almost black. “I could ask Daddy, Henry. I don’t know if he has it or not, but he might.” “No,” he said, spitting out the word with force. Then he used a softer tone to add, “I appreciate it but I ain’t taking your family’s charity. I’ve made up my mind. I’ll rob a few banks, pay off the mortgage for Mama, get ahead, save some money and then I’ll quit, no harm done.” “It’s wrong,” Mamie said with a troubled expression. “You know it is, Henry.” He did, but damned if he’d admit it now. “What’s wrong is people getting kicked off their families’ land where they’ve lived for generations,” he said. “Banks are wrong to wring the last nickel away from folks. It’s not right for kids to go hungry or old people to do without. I don’t aim to get rich robbing banks, just take back enough to get through these hard times. If I can help a few people on the way, I will. And I don’t plan to kill no lawmen or shoot anyone.” “Oh, Henry,” Mamie said and sighed. “I know almost everybody’s having a terrible time and no one has enough money. I don’t think the banks are being fair either, but two wrongs won’t make it right.” “Money’ll go a long way toward fixing it,” Henry said. “There’s not enough money in the world to make up for it if you get hurt,” Mamie said. “Or if some sheriff hunts you down to take your life. You could end up in prison down at McAlester or dead like Pretty Boy’s bandit friend, Birdwell. Your mama would just be heartbroken if anything happened to you. So would Eddie and the girls. Think about them, Henry.” Mamie might be a smart young lady, but she didn’t understand, not yet anyway. “I am,” he said. “I’m doing this for them. I can’t let them be put out on the road without a home or go live with stingy old Uncle Ed. And I’m worn out watching them go to bed hungry or do without almost everything. They all need shoes and I don’t think poor little Vi’s ever worn a brand new dress.” She grasped his hand and held it so tight it hurt but he liked the connection. “Let me help them, then. I can sew. I saved some of my teacher salary and I could buy some cloth. I wouldn’t have enough to pay off the farm, but I could make the girls some nice little dresses or something.” “Honey, I appreciate it but I can’t let you spend your money on my folks. Mamie, you don’t understand how poor we are, do you?” “I think I do.” “What’d your family have for supper?” His question seemed to surprise her, but she answered. “Mama fried up some salt pork and ‘taters. She opened up a jar of corn she canned last summer and made a nice apple pie with some dried apples. Why?” “We ate green beans seasoned with old bacon grease and onions with cornbread,” he answered. “I don’t think any of us ate enough to fill our bellies or even liked it much, but by God we ate everything Mama cooked. Hunger don’t allow for being picky.” Mamie’s expression shifted. “That’s all you had?” Henry nodded. “Yeah and some nights, it’s even less. Mama meant her garden to see us through summer but the pickings are pretty slim. She waters it with the dish and bath water or it’d be gone, too. We don’t have anything left to butcher and the few chickens still alive and kicking won’t lay eggs. The milk cow died last winter and we haven’t kept pigs since Daddy died. I’d hunt but it’s too damn hot for the meat to be much good and ‘sides, everyone else’s about hunted the game till it’s gone. I pull a few fish out of the river once in a while, but not many fish left either.” He spoke with bitterness in a harsher tone than he’d ever used with Mamie in an effort to drive his point home. To Henry’s surprise she didn’t bluster with outrage but scooted across the bench and put her arms around him. Mamie put her head down against his shoulder and he held her against him. “Henry, I didn’t have any idea it was so bad,” she said. “I guess my head’s been in the clouds and I missed what’s right in front of me.” “You haven’t been home from the school year very long,” Henry said. “Things changed for the worse over the winter, honey.” “I feel awful, though,” she murmured. “Maybe my kids in town, in Alva are just as hard up and I didn’t see it. None of the families I took turns boarding with were as poor as your family or they didn’t seem like it.” “Maybe, maybe not,” Henry said. “This ol’ Depression’s hitting everyone hard, but I think farm folks like us, just barely getting by anyway, got hit the worst so far. It ain’t your fault you didn’t see it. Your family’s doing better than most and you should be glad.” DBD Links: All Romance eBooks Amazon Barnes and Noble Bookstrand Today we asked Lee Ann if she'd like to share a recipe with us. I like to cook and am always looking for new recipes to try and share and she complied. Yay!! This is a real Depression era recipe and what I still use to making icing (frosting). I learned it from my grandmother and it’s cheaper to make than buying the little cans of frosting and it tastes better too. And it’s very simple! Icing4 tbsp. butter
3 cups confectioner’s sugar
2 tbsp. milk or cream
2 tsp. vanilla
Method
1. Cream butter.
2. Add sugar, diluting mixture with milk or cream.
3. Continue beating until mixture will hold its shape. Then spread on top and sides of cake or cupcakes. This icing is especially good for use with a pastry tube. If you want to make it chocolate add ¾ tablespoons of cocoa. Or you can add a few drops of food coloring to color it blue, green, pink, or yellow.
Amount – icing for 18 cup cakes or 1 large layer cake.
Lee Ann, thanks so much for being here today and sharing Dust Bowl Dreams and your recipe. Readers, don't miss your chance to get this great book! DBD Links:
All Romance eBooks Amazon Barnes and Noble Bookstrand
Until next time, happy reading!! Krista
October 8, 2012
Author, author... Tamaria Soana
...read all about her !!Today we have author
Tamaria Soana
here with us !!!
Hi Tamaria, welcome! Can you tell us a little about yourself??
I’m a forty year old stay at home with a wild imagination.
What or who initially inspired you to become a writer?
No one really, my family isn’t thrilled at all.
What kind of research do you do for a novel and how extensive do you get?
This depends on what I’m writing. Some just require a little, other’s like Obsession required a lot of research.
Do you have a special place you like to do your writing? Such as an office, a spare room, the dining room table, your couch?
I write in the corner of my kitchen, I do have a small office space in my Rec-room but the lighting is aweful.
As a reader, what types of works do you like to read and do you think they influence the genre/genres you write in?
I love a good steamy romance and I enjoy reading paranormal. I don’t believe they influence my writing. My stories are different from those I read.
What is your favorite method of writing...as in laptop, desktop, Ipad or the old fashioned pencil and paper?? And do you plot out your story or go with the flow of your muse?
My laptop, when I’m running the kids to gymnastic, softball, bowling I bring a spiral note book and pens.
When you need a break or some time off from the trials of being a writer, what can you be found doing? Reading!
For fn, I have a few personal questions,
Your Favorite 5
1) Favorite color - Blue
2) Favorite dessert - cheesecake
3) Favorite Season - Summer
4)Favorite sad song - Nothing Compares 2 U5) Favorite Romantic movie - An Affair to Remember
And a bonus, what is your ideal romantic vacation??
Somewhere tropical just me, my lappy, my kindle, and a hot cabana boy to serve me fruity adult beverages!
Do you have a release you'd like to share with us today??
The Calm Before the StormThe last two years of Erica Bloom's life have been spent looking over her shoulder. Sawyer Marsh promised the day she filed for divorce and left him, that if he couldn't have her no one would. Even though Sawyer hasn't contacted her in two years she's still feared for her life. She remembers all too well the nightmare their marriage was and what it felt to be on the receiving end of wrath.
The news of Sawyer's engagement allows Erica to finally let her guard down and enjoy her new life and budding relationship with Brock Maxwell.
While away relaxing at Brock's vacation home on the Willow Lake, the past comes back to haunt her. Were the past few years just the calm before the storm?
Excerpt:
Erica picked it up and smiled when she saw it was Joann calling.
“Hey, Joann.”
“Hi, Erica. You busy?”
“No, not at all. I was just reading the paper.”
“Did you hear the news about Sawyer?”
Erica stood up. Chills ran down her spine at the mention of his name. “What news?” she replied, just above a whisper.
“He’s getting married.”
The words stunned her.
“Erica, are you still there?” Joann asked.
She took a deep breath, trying to calm down so she could respond.
“How do you know?” she managed to stammer. So many feelings were flowing through her body as she paced the floor. They ranged from fear to relief. Was he truly moving on? “Tim ran into his cousin at the hardware store. He said they’re getting married in a few months.”
“Wow.” Erica breathed out.
“Are you okay?”
“Yes. This is good news. He’s moved on. Maybe I can stop looking over my shoulder every time I go out. Do you know who she is?”
“No. From what I understand, some woman he met while on a business trip and Sawyer’s cousin mentioned that she’s much younger.”
“The poor girl doesn’t know what she’s getting herself into. I feel for her because I know all of his tricks. He’s sexy and charming in the beginning and you’re so over the top in love with him. You marry him and get so caught up in the fairytale you believe is your life, until one day he changes into the man he truly is. A monster,” Erica stoically stated.
“Erica, I know you went through hell with him, but it’s been two years. You have a terrific man in your life. I think it’s time you let go of the past and live again.”
Erica sank down on the couch. She felt like she was hit by a freight train. “I have a lot to think about. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Let’s get together soon.”
“Sounds great.”
“Erica, relax. The nightmare is finally over.” Her friend reassured her.
“Bye, Joann.” Erica ended the call and stared into space. Could it be that easy? Am I honestly free from that man once and for all?
Amazon Buy Link
Watch the Trailer: Link > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQItNvn9QIo&feature=plcp
Embed code:
Amazon Buy Link
Note from the Author:
To say it’s surreal to have my short story come light is an understatement. The vision for this story came to me months ago. I wanted to write a short story to raise awareness for Domestic Abuse. This cause is very near to my heart. I also wanted to find away to use my story to raise money for the cause. After a few phone calls I decided I needed to look no further than my own back yard. I live near Buffalo, New York and we have a wonderful woman’s shelter that has helped countess woman and children get back on their feet.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I will donate 100% of the proceeds from The Calm Before the Storm in October to my local woman's shelter, and 50% for the life of the book.
Here are some Domestic Violence Statistics Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women--more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.Every day in the US, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.
Those facts alone make you want to stand up and do something. one thing you can do if you're in an abusive relatioinship or know someone that is, please get help by calling the hotline.
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE(7233) or TTY 1-800-787-3224
Author Bio:Tamaria Soana is middle aged, but just feels her life has begun. She writes sexy contemporary romance stories that always end with a 'happily ever after'. Growing up she loved to read and make up new places in her head to escape to. In her late teens she began writing short stories and poetry; it wasn't until her late thirties before she began to spin a full story.
She's married and a stay-at-home-mom of two beautiful young girls, they reside in Western New York. Cuddling up witha good book under an electric throw is her cold Buffalo nights.
Besides writing, she co-owns Shades of Rose Marketing and hosts a talk show on Talkshoe called Live with Tamara ~ Giving authors a voice.
Author Links: Site Weebly Facebook Author Page Twitter
October 6, 2012
Author, author...Lacey Wolfe
...read all about her !! Today we have a spotlight Letting Go by Lacey Wolfe Text Me Series Book One
The rules were simple and the night promised to be one to never forget. All Scarlett has to do is let her guard down and have a little fun.Scarlett’s best friend, Angela, has convinced her to attend an event called Text Me. No talking is aloud, only texting someone to get to know them. Rooms have been reserved for those attending in case they want to get to know someone one a more personal level.
After a series of texts that lead nowhere, Scarlett gets one that piques her interest. The person on the other end wants to tie her up and spank her. She finds herself eager to learn more. But that would mean trusting the anonymous texter. Can Scarlett finally let go and experience the pleasure this mystery man has to give? Excerpt “Welcome,” a stunning red headed woman greeted them. “Please look over the rules then come over here and I’ll help sign you up.” Scarlett looked at the poster board and read. Welcome to the first annual, Text Me Date Night. We’ve tried to make tonight as safe and enjoyable as possible. Please take a moment to look over the simple rules. Every person is assigned their ID that is associated with their phone number. You will display your ID with a sticker on your back. If you find someone you are interested in, you will check the board for their ID and find their number. Always identify yourself with your ID. All communication is through texting. No talking aloud. If you find someone you’d like to get to know better, stop by the welcome desk to get a room card and leave your ID number so we know who is where and with whom. Most of all, let loose and have fun. The rules were simple and seemed like this event was well thought out. Everyone had their own personal identification code which seemed as though it would help keep them safe. What the hell. Might as well give it a go. “Ready?” Angela asked. “I didn’t get dressed up for nothing.” Scarlett tossed her blonde locks behind her shoulders and strutted back to the table to get her ID.
At the sign-up table, the woman looked thrilled to see them. She handed them each a clipboard with a few simple questions to fill out. As Scarlett wrote her phone number down, she really hoped the room wasn’t filled with a bunch of psychos. After she completed the form, she handed it back to the woman then the red head placed a big sticker on her back which identified her to her phone number. “Good luck, ladies. And my best advice is, let the men text you.” “Thanks,” Scarlett said as she waited on Angela. They went toward the ballroom where the event was being hosted. The doors were wide open, making it feel inviting. Before they entered where they would no longer be able to talk, Scarlett stopped and took a deep breath. “Hopefully this is fun. Should we have a special text word like we do at clubs in case one of us needs help?” “Great idea, yes. How about our usual word, pickle?” “Okay. Don’t leave me right away, please.” “I won’t. It isn’t like I’m going to go get it on with the first man that texts me.” Angela laughed. Scarlett wasn’t so sure about that. Not that she was calling her friend a slut, but she was definitely a little looser then Scarlett was. “Let’s go,” Scarlett said, because if they didn’t go now she might chicken out. Available at : Amazon ~ Barnes & NobleAll Romance eBooks ~ Bookstrand About the Author:
Lacey Wolfe has always had a passion for words, whether it's getting lost in a book or writing her own. From the time she was a child she would slip away to write short stories about people she knew or fantasies she wished would happen. It has always been her dream to be a published author and with her two children now of school age, she finally has the time to work on making her dream come true. Lacey lives in Georgia with her husband, son and daughter, their six cats and one black lab who rules the house. You can find Lacey at the following places: Her Site Twitter Facebook 
October 5, 2012
Author, author...
...read all about it !!
Today we are the last stop on the virtual book tour for
D'Ann Lindun's
Shot Through the Heart
Hi D'Ann and welcome :) Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I live in SW Colorado with my husband and daughter. I just passed my 29 wedding anniversary! We have 12 horses, several of which my daughter and have rescued. If we hadn’t saved them, they would have gone to slaughter. We also have 6 dogs, 7 cats and 8 ducks! This winter, we will pasture cattle here on the cornfields. I’m passionate about standing against animal abuse of any kind.
What or who initially inspired you to become a writer?
Margot Early! My BFF Kim and I took a class from her 20 years ago. I fell in love with writing, and it’s become a major portion of my life.
What kind of research do you do for a novel and how extensive do you get?
Honestly, I write about what I know—the west, cowboys, lawmen, horses. If I have to do a lot of research, it kind of kills it for me. I loathe research.
Do you have a special place you like to do your writing? Such as an office, a spare room, the dining room table, your couch?
My desk is in the corner of the living room. I sit next to a window where I can see my flowers, the horses, the fields, the mountains in the distance.
As a reader, what types of works do you like to read and do you think they influence the genre/genres you write in? I like Romantic Suspense. No, not really. I write different than anyone I’ve ever discovered as of yet.
What is your favorite method of writing...as in laptop, desktop, Ipad or the old fashioned pencil and paper?? And do you plot out your story or go with the flow of your muse?
I work on a PC, no laptop. I’m a pantser all the way! Like research, plotting ruins it for me.
When you need a break or some time off from the trials of being a writer, what can you be found doing?
Trail riding with my daughter. My husband doesn’t ride much anymore—too busy—so my daughter and I take the dogs and go to the mountains. We like to roast hot dogs, take pictures. If we have enough time, we have a nap! LOL I like to putter with my flowers, too.
Is there anything about yourself nobody knows that you would like to share with our readers??
Can’t think of anything! I’m an open book! hehehehehe
For fun, I have a few personal questions, Your favorite 5
1) Favorite color –forest green
2) Favorite dessert –cheesecake with strawberries!
3) Favorite Season –summer!
4) Favorite sad song- hmmm, I listen to old country, so anything on the radio! hehehehhe
5) Favorite Romantic movie – Not really a fan of these kind of movies!
And a bonus, what is your ideal romantic vacation?? A pack trip into the mountains with lots of time to take pics or nap while the hubby fishes!
Where can our readers find you?? (all that apply and more)
Email: dldauthor@frontier.net Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DLindunAuthor
Website/blog: http://dlindunauthor.blogspot.com/
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/DAnn-Lindun/e/B008DKL9TU
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
Shot Through the Heart
www.crimsonromance.com
http://www.amazon.com/Shot-Through-the-Heart-ebook/dp/B008PW2Y9A
When Laramie Porter’s sister-in-law Julie is beaten so badly by her husband she miscarries her baby, Laramie takes her home from the hospital. But just a few minutes after the women arrive home, Julie’s husband, who also happens to be a drug addict and the local police sheriff, shows up at the house on a murderous rampage.
He kills Julie and attempts to murder Laramie. When he doesn’t succeed, he hauls them into the mountains and throws them off a cliff. Julie’s body lands in a pond, but Laramie hits a ledge, where she perches, terrified.
Derrick Garrison is in the mountains moving his cattle when his dog finds Julie’s body in the pond. Creeped out, Derrick at first doesn’t believe his ears when he hears a girl crying for help. But he finds Laramie and pulls her to safety. Before she can tell him anything, a lightning strike starts a forest fire and they flee to a hidden valley.
Fleeing a drug hazed killer, the fire, and a gun-toting old lady bent on collecting a reward, Laramie and Derrick do their best to evade all three . . . and fall in love along the way.
D'Ann, thanks so much for being with us today and Shot Through the Heart sounds great !!! Readers, make sure you get your copy today ! www.crimsonromance.com http://www.amazon.com/Shot-Through-the-Heart-ebook/dp/B008PW2Y9A
Until next time, happy reading! Krista
September 30, 2012
Author, author...
...read all about it !!
Today we are lucky enough to have Kacey Hammell back with another interview with her newest set of characters...Isabella & Brady...Yay !!!
Kacey: Good morning! Thanks again for stopping by Krista’s site to visit with me, Brady Jacobs & Isabella Knowles from ILLUSIONS and TIED DOWN. In TIED DOWN, it was a lot of fun to revisit these two. Of course, a very fun part for me was battling another red head, and showing her who is boss.
Bella: What the hell, woman, you’ve lost your mind if you think you’re boss.
Kacey: Give it up, Bella, you know darn well that you were totally knocked on your ass in TIED DOWN. Hell, if people could have seen the surprise on your face, they’d laugh at you.
Bella: Go to hell. Look…
Brady: Ladies. Ladies! Really we go through this every time you’re together. Readers will never understand how the story—or should I say stories—got written if you hate one another. Now settle down.
Bella: Don’t tell me to settle down. She started it.
Kacey: Oh for god’s sake, we’re in grade school now.
Bella: Look…
Brady: Enough. Kacey, you have some questions for us?
My gaze narrows at Bella, who glares at me. I think the next book, I’ll have her fall down stairs or something, sheesh.
Kacey: Thank you, Brady, yes. How are you doing?
Brady: I’m fine, just fine. Thank you for sitting down with us today.
He grabs Bella’s hand and clasps it between his.
Kacey: I’m glad to be here with you…both. How are things going? Things settled down for the two of you, you’re both working together at the precinct. It’s commendable how you like to help, Brady.
Brady: Well, with these visions, it’s the best I can do for myself, to share this “gift” I’ve been given.
Bella: It takes a real man to stand up for what he believes in and set aside misgivings to share them with those around him.
Kacey: I agree. Bella, how do you cope with the visions? I know they happen anywhere, any place, is it difficult to not panic as they happen?
Bella: It can be difficult at times, but I’m there when I can be, and he’s stronger than many would think.
Brady: Ahh, ladies, you make me sound like something special. I’m just a man.
Kacey: You are special.
Bella glares at me. Bella: You’re a true hero, Jacobs. Don’t argue with me about it.
I roll my eyes. Bella and her ordering people around really drives me insane.
Kacey: I won’t reveal too much about what happened in TIED DOWN, but Bella, it was something that caught you by surprise. Would you say that it was exactly what you needed to sit up and take notice that it was time to make a commitment?
Bella: Well, I think it could have gone a bit more…smoothly I guess. It was a great surprise, a simple dinner and a movie would have sufficed.
Brady grins. Brady: But not nearly as much fun.
I laugh. Very true. The man is very mischievous.
Bella smiles slightly. Bella: Yes, it was fun. Adventurous.
The two share a smile and adoring looks. They really are the perfect pair. Both hold a big part of my heart.
Kacey: Bella, I look forward to featuring the event in one of the stories coming up in the series. I haven’t fully determined when that will be but I look forward to it.
Brady: Me too.
Bella: Just don’t go overboard. Really, the simpler the better.
Brady: I hope it’s all lavish and extravagant. You deserve it, Bella.
Bella shakes her head.
Kacey: It will happen as it happens. Now, Brady, if you had to describe Bella in three words what would they be?
Brady: Oh, that’s easy. Hard-headed, passionate and sexy.
Bella: That’s it? Come on, Jacobs, that’s all you got? What about open minded, generous, forgiving?
I chuckle. What a crock. Those are the least of the three words in the dictionary that I’d use to describe her.
Brady: You’re all those too, my love, but truthfully, my three come to mind first.
Kacey: Umm, Bella, what three words would you use to describe Brady?
Bella smiles. Bella: Hmm, definitely pigheaded, a pain in the ass and determined.
Brady: What about my sex appeal?
Bella: What about it? I don’t think anyone else needs to know about that.
Kacey: You can’t be serious. As if the readers don’t already know about his prowess in the bedroom, his spontaneity, his romantic side.
Bella: Well they don’t need to know more than what you have already shared with them. Christ, is nothing private?
Kacey: Not to the readers who love him.
Brady: And I love those readers as well. Bella, you know very well that readers like to know what makes us tick. And I forgot to add to my three words…you’re also the love of my life.
Bella’s face softens. Though we don’t always get along, I know how much she loves Brady. It’s the only thing that keeps me from making her life true hell.
Bella: And you’re mine.
Kacey: I’m so happy to see that look in both your eyes. You’re both so in love, it makes my heart hurt, and I’m filled with pride for what you’ve both overcome.
Brady: We love you, K, thank you for all you’ve done for us.
Bella: Yes, thank you.
I sniffle. An author is always teary-eyed when it comes to her characters.
Bella’s phone rings, breaking the silence. She looks down at the number and stands.
Bella: I have to go. Text from Connor. I’m needed on scene. Sorry, Kacey.
Kacey: I understand. I hope we can do this again.
Bella: Umm, sure. Sure. Yeah.
Brady stands and crosses to where I sit. He lifts my chin with his finger and presses his lips to mine. My heart races. Whew, he’s potent. Lips soft, firm. I hear Bella’s growl from somewhere in the room but don’t really care. This is my moment. He eases back.
Brady: Thank you, K., I’ll see you soon.
Bella glares at me, nods once then leaves. Brady closes the door behind them.
No matter how much she dislikes it, Bella will be seeing me very soon. The biggest day of her life is about to happen, and I might just make it all frilly, girly and crazy…exactly how she WON’T like it…
I smile, and start typing…
TIED DOWN
An “Edge” short story
Connected to In the Arms of the Law Series
ISBN: 978-1-61333-370-9
Available at Decadent Publishing
The time has come for Brady Jacobs to grab hold of the woman he loves and their future. But his lady, Isabella Knowles, is skittish. She’ll bolt at the mention of a future with him. He needs to handle her with precise planning, tools to seduce and never give her a moment to flee.
Brady will tie her down, pleasure her, push her farther than she’s ever experienced…then ask her to marry him. But no amount of planning can ensure Bella’s answer won’t include the business end of her Glock.
© Kacey Hammell
Isabella stirred at a tug on her ankle. She shifted, not in any way eager to wake up.
Snuggling her cheek deeper into the pillow, she sighed. The web of slumber curled around her as she relaxed again.
At the shuffle of footsteps and a thump, she stirred. Her eyes flew open and she lifted her head. As she shifted to her side, she gasped.
Why couldn’t she move?
Jesus, what the hell?
Danger screamed through her mind while she took in the room around her. Right where she’d fallen asleep, in Brady’s bed.
No need to fear for her safety. Right?
“What the fuck is this?” Damn the bindings around her wrists and feet. “Brady!” she screamed. She’d kill the bastard who dared to enter their personal space. Cripes, if he’s been hurt, she’d carve out their hearts and throw the bodies in the ocean.
“Brady!”
“I’m right here, babe.”
His head appeared over the foot of the bed. Her heart skipped a beat. Safe. Her head fell back in relief. She’d die if something happened to him. Could never relive him ever being hurt again. She’d barely survived once before when he’d been stabbed and almost blown to bits. She did not ever want to go through anything like it again.
“You okay, babe? These scarves aren’t too tight, are they?”
So lost in her own thoughts, she forgot she lay there, tied like some prisoner.
“What the hell? What’s going on?” He knelt at the end of the bed. She gaped as she took in her naked body, the scarves holding her legs and arms captive. Her heart rate accelerated. She had no control over any of this. Desperate to get out of the ties and the situation, she pulled hard, jerked her limbs to escape their captivity.
“Fuck! Goddamn it. Let me loose.”
Available at …
Decadent Publishing
aRe
Amazon
Purchase Illusions & Awakenings, which precede this story, at Decadent Publishing
Readers can learn more about Kacey’s books/contact her…
Website/Blog
Facebook
Facebook Author Page
Twitter
Amazon
Goodreads
Until next time, happy reading!!
Krista
Today we are lucky enough to have Kacey Hammell back with another interview with her newest set of characters...Isabella & Brady...Yay !!!
Kacey: Good morning! Thanks again for stopping by Krista’s site to visit with me, Brady Jacobs & Isabella Knowles from ILLUSIONS and TIED DOWN. In TIED DOWN, it was a lot of fun to revisit these two. Of course, a very fun part for me was battling another red head, and showing her who is boss.
Bella: What the hell, woman, you’ve lost your mind if you think you’re boss.
Kacey: Give it up, Bella, you know darn well that you were totally knocked on your ass in TIED DOWN. Hell, if people could have seen the surprise on your face, they’d laugh at you.
Bella: Go to hell. Look…
Brady: Ladies. Ladies! Really we go through this every time you’re together. Readers will never understand how the story—or should I say stories—got written if you hate one another. Now settle down.
Bella: Don’t tell me to settle down. She started it.
Kacey: Oh for god’s sake, we’re in grade school now.
Bella: Look…
Brady: Enough. Kacey, you have some questions for us?
My gaze narrows at Bella, who glares at me. I think the next book, I’ll have her fall down stairs or something, sheesh.
Kacey: Thank you, Brady, yes. How are you doing?
Brady: I’m fine, just fine. Thank you for sitting down with us today.
He grabs Bella’s hand and clasps it between his.
Kacey: I’m glad to be here with you…both. How are things going? Things settled down for the two of you, you’re both working together at the precinct. It’s commendable how you like to help, Brady.
Brady: Well, with these visions, it’s the best I can do for myself, to share this “gift” I’ve been given.
Bella: It takes a real man to stand up for what he believes in and set aside misgivings to share them with those around him.
Kacey: I agree. Bella, how do you cope with the visions? I know they happen anywhere, any place, is it difficult to not panic as they happen?
Bella: It can be difficult at times, but I’m there when I can be, and he’s stronger than many would think.
Brady: Ahh, ladies, you make me sound like something special. I’m just a man.
Kacey: You are special.
Bella glares at me. Bella: You’re a true hero, Jacobs. Don’t argue with me about it.
I roll my eyes. Bella and her ordering people around really drives me insane.
Kacey: I won’t reveal too much about what happened in TIED DOWN, but Bella, it was something that caught you by surprise. Would you say that it was exactly what you needed to sit up and take notice that it was time to make a commitment?
Bella: Well, I think it could have gone a bit more…smoothly I guess. It was a great surprise, a simple dinner and a movie would have sufficed.
Brady grins. Brady: But not nearly as much fun.
I laugh. Very true. The man is very mischievous.
Bella smiles slightly. Bella: Yes, it was fun. Adventurous.
The two share a smile and adoring looks. They really are the perfect pair. Both hold a big part of my heart.
Kacey: Bella, I look forward to featuring the event in one of the stories coming up in the series. I haven’t fully determined when that will be but I look forward to it.
Brady: Me too.
Bella: Just don’t go overboard. Really, the simpler the better.
Brady: I hope it’s all lavish and extravagant. You deserve it, Bella.
Bella shakes her head.
Kacey: It will happen as it happens. Now, Brady, if you had to describe Bella in three words what would they be?
Brady: Oh, that’s easy. Hard-headed, passionate and sexy.
Bella: That’s it? Come on, Jacobs, that’s all you got? What about open minded, generous, forgiving?
I chuckle. What a crock. Those are the least of the three words in the dictionary that I’d use to describe her.
Brady: You’re all those too, my love, but truthfully, my three come to mind first.
Kacey: Umm, Bella, what three words would you use to describe Brady?
Bella smiles. Bella: Hmm, definitely pigheaded, a pain in the ass and determined.
Brady: What about my sex appeal?
Bella: What about it? I don’t think anyone else needs to know about that.
Kacey: You can’t be serious. As if the readers don’t already know about his prowess in the bedroom, his spontaneity, his romantic side.
Bella: Well they don’t need to know more than what you have already shared with them. Christ, is nothing private?
Kacey: Not to the readers who love him.
Brady: And I love those readers as well. Bella, you know very well that readers like to know what makes us tick. And I forgot to add to my three words…you’re also the love of my life.
Bella’s face softens. Though we don’t always get along, I know how much she loves Brady. It’s the only thing that keeps me from making her life true hell.
Bella: And you’re mine.
Kacey: I’m so happy to see that look in both your eyes. You’re both so in love, it makes my heart hurt, and I’m filled with pride for what you’ve both overcome.
Brady: We love you, K, thank you for all you’ve done for us.
Bella: Yes, thank you.
I sniffle. An author is always teary-eyed when it comes to her characters.
Bella’s phone rings, breaking the silence. She looks down at the number and stands.
Bella: I have to go. Text from Connor. I’m needed on scene. Sorry, Kacey.
Kacey: I understand. I hope we can do this again.
Bella: Umm, sure. Sure. Yeah.
Brady stands and crosses to where I sit. He lifts my chin with his finger and presses his lips to mine. My heart races. Whew, he’s potent. Lips soft, firm. I hear Bella’s growl from somewhere in the room but don’t really care. This is my moment. He eases back.
Brady: Thank you, K., I’ll see you soon.
Bella glares at me, nods once then leaves. Brady closes the door behind them.
No matter how much she dislikes it, Bella will be seeing me very soon. The biggest day of her life is about to happen, and I might just make it all frilly, girly and crazy…exactly how she WON’T like it…
I smile, and start typing…
TIED DOWN
An “Edge” short story Connected to In the Arms of the Law Series
ISBN: 978-1-61333-370-9
Available at Decadent Publishing
The time has come for Brady Jacobs to grab hold of the woman he loves and their future. But his lady, Isabella Knowles, is skittish. She’ll bolt at the mention of a future with him. He needs to handle her with precise planning, tools to seduce and never give her a moment to flee.
Brady will tie her down, pleasure her, push her farther than she’s ever experienced…then ask her to marry him. But no amount of planning can ensure Bella’s answer won’t include the business end of her Glock.
© Kacey Hammell
Isabella stirred at a tug on her ankle. She shifted, not in any way eager to wake up.
Snuggling her cheek deeper into the pillow, she sighed. The web of slumber curled around her as she relaxed again.
At the shuffle of footsteps and a thump, she stirred. Her eyes flew open and she lifted her head. As she shifted to her side, she gasped.
Why couldn’t she move?
Jesus, what the hell?
Danger screamed through her mind while she took in the room around her. Right where she’d fallen asleep, in Brady’s bed.
No need to fear for her safety. Right?
“What the fuck is this?” Damn the bindings around her wrists and feet. “Brady!” she screamed. She’d kill the bastard who dared to enter their personal space. Cripes, if he’s been hurt, she’d carve out their hearts and throw the bodies in the ocean.
“Brady!”
“I’m right here, babe.”
His head appeared over the foot of the bed. Her heart skipped a beat. Safe. Her head fell back in relief. She’d die if something happened to him. Could never relive him ever being hurt again. She’d barely survived once before when he’d been stabbed and almost blown to bits. She did not ever want to go through anything like it again.
“You okay, babe? These scarves aren’t too tight, are they?”
So lost in her own thoughts, she forgot she lay there, tied like some prisoner.
“What the hell? What’s going on?” He knelt at the end of the bed. She gaped as she took in her naked body, the scarves holding her legs and arms captive. Her heart rate accelerated. She had no control over any of this. Desperate to get out of the ties and the situation, she pulled hard, jerked her limbs to escape their captivity.
“Fuck! Goddamn it. Let me loose.”
Available at …
Decadent Publishing
aRe
Amazon
Purchase Illusions & Awakenings, which precede this story, at Decadent Publishing
Readers can learn more about Kacey’s books/contact her…
Website/Blog
Facebook Author Page
Amazon
Goodreads
Until next time, happy reading!!
Krista
September 28, 2012
BlogFest 2012
I'm so excited to be a part of this year's BlogFest 2012. This event is sponsored by A Journey of Books and I'm thrilled to be one of many bloggers sharing their space. During this 3 days, you readers will have a chance to hop on over to all the other bloggers and win great stuff.
I'd love it if you would be so generous as to follow me on Twitter and Facebook...I love to communicate with my readers. You can also find me of course on this blog and there are links on the left and right to follow me through Google Friend Connect, Networked Blogs or following through email :) And I also have a website, Krista Ames.
Don't forget to leave a comment below, including your name and email address for your chance to win a digital copy of any one of the 4 anthologies I've written in. They can be found here...
Love in an Elevator in the Love Takes the Cake
"Believe" in the
Anthology "Be Mine, Valentine"
Buy Now Anthology
Buy Now
Whiskey's Sweet Revenge Surf's Upin the in the
"All Bets Are On" Anthology "Summer Shorts"
Anthology Anthology
Buy Now Buy Now
Now, make sure you keep going on the blog and the next 5 in line after me are: Leeswammes' Blog At Home With Books Becky Wicks Susan Frances Gemma Parkes Living and Loving Don't forget, leave a comment below before you go, along with your name and email address to enter.I will announce the winner on Monday October 1st.,butMost important....just Have Fun !!!
Happy Hopping :)
Krista
Author, author... #giveaway
...read all about it !!
Today we have the honor of being the last stop on the Yesterday's Heroes book tour and we get to find out a bit about the book and it's author, Heather Long !!
Welcome Heather, so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself? Thank you for having me! I'm a writer and this question is always so hard to answer because I don't tend to think of myself as interesting—but I really hope my books are. I read somewhere that if you go to sleep at night and dream of writing, wake up wanting to write, are distracted all day by the things you could be writing—then you just might be a writer. That pretty much sums me up—writing touches every part of my life.
Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Absolutely. Some events you can't shy away from and it took me ten years to be able to write anything that used 9/11 and then it appeared in two stories I wrote. Some events are—for lack of a better way to say it—fixed points. Whether it's Vietnam, the Marine Barracks bombing in 1982, the assassination of a president or the destruction of a space shuttle—they change us in some fundamental way and change the landscape of our personal histories. So those types of events absolutely make it into my books.
Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
I have been inspired to create characters based on friends or family—but they remain inspirations. Most of the characters that appear in my head may be sparked by something else, but ultimately they develop as independent entities—not sure that makes a lot of sense unless you're in my head.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
Everything inspires me. I had a conversation on the phone a few days ago with a very dear friend and we were discussing something rather random, but it sparked a thought and I was like, huh, I wonder—and fifteen minutes later, I had a new story idea. It can be as simple as an offhand remark or a photograph or a song…or just something I see on the road while driving.
When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?
Early morning is the best time. I am fresh and alert. Lately though I tend to write in spurts all day long, as well. But I think I am my most creative in the morning.
How do you feel about marketing your book?
Honestly? Hardest part of the job—but while some people dream of fifteen minutes of fame—I dream of those last few pages as a reader closes the book and lets out a sigh of satisfaction and says 'damn that was good.'
What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
There are so many and they each offer something unique to the mix. I tend to stick to Facebook and Twitter. Occasionally I will play on Yahoo Groups and visit readers via chats they host which are fun, too.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in? I have done both. I've sent in proposals while I've been working on a book or the whole book if it's a new publisher. With my established editors, I pitch story ideas and then run with the ones they like.
Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?
A real spy thriller. I just finished a book called The Lady is a Thief and it had a lot of action, spy elements and I really enjoy action adventure.
Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
No. These characters are themselves and I am just their 'facilitator' to get the story out.
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5
1) Favorite Male Actor - Chris Hemsworth
2) Favorite vehicle - Jeep
3) Favorite way to relax – A massage
4) Favorite ice cream – Mint chocolate chip
5) Favorite outfit – I have these red jeans that I just bought this summer – LOVE them
And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)
Hmm, I'd like to live somewhere there are four seasons—conversely, I wouldn't mind Hawaii for a couple of years.
Where can our readers find you??
Email: heather@heatherlong.net
Twitter: @HVLong Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HeatherLongAuthor
Website/blog: http://www.heatherlong.net
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Heather-Long/e/B002BMBCUC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2959976.Heather_Long
TRR: http://www.theromancereviews.com/mypage.php?location=HVLong
Manic Readers: http://www.manicreaders.com/HeatherVLong/
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
Yesterday's Heroes is one of the most exciting books I've ever written. It's the kick off to a series of books about the Boomers and it features passion, romance, time travel, chaos and hope—and superheroes. I am truly excited to share this and even more that some readers are already asking me for the next book right now. That's a great feeling.
Buy Links:
Carina Press: http://ebooks.carinapress.com/82053F21-1990-44D1-95C7-F742542A2DFA/10/134/en/ContentDetails.htm?ID={E016A906-35FC-4303-8752-130AB2215BA3}
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Also available on Audio!
Aurora “Rory” Graystone
Codename: Halo Abilities: superior reflexes, I.Q. and aptitude for calculating probabilities
Mission: find missing teammates
Rory knows she’s being watched, and she’s not about to let the hunter catch her in his trap. She’ll confront her stalker, a man she suspects is involved in the disappearances of other superheroes–if she can ignore the sensual heat that fills her every time he’s near…
Michael Hunter Codename: Hard Target
Abilities: expert tracker and sniper
Mission: kill Rory Graystone
One of five desperate men sent back in time to save the future, Michael believes eliminating Rory is the key to his mission. But even as he takes aim, a split second of doubt causes him to miss his shot.
Drawn together by passion, and on a collision course with fate, can Rory and Michael work together to change the future? Or have they set in motion the horrific history the time-travelers are trying to prevent?
What Readers are saying on Goodreads:
Tara Clegg: This promises to be an awesome new series and I cannot wait until the next book to learn more about the heroes and the challenges they are facing.
Reading Reality: Too many possibilities and no way to get answers until the next book. I want the next book!
Jeep Diva: Superheroes, time travel, sexy alpha males, and saving the world. There is so much awesome in that mix.
Calisto: Is there anything better than romance, action and spandex superheroes?
Heather's book Yesterday's Heroes was also featured this week on Fresh Fiction "Buy The Book" segment from Good Morning Texas!!
Heather is also doing a giveaway so make sure to visit the rafflecopter below !!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Heather, we can't thank you enough for being here with us today! It was so great hearing more about you and I can't wait to read Yesterday's Heroes. Many congrats on the Good Morning Texas, how thrilling!!
Readers, make sure you filled out the Rafflecopter and good luck on the contest but don't forget, Yesterday's Heroes is available in these places too :)
Carina Press: http://ebooks.carinapress.com/82053F21-1990-44D1-95C7-F742542A2DFA/10/134/en/ContentDetails.htm?ID={E016A906-35FC-4303-8752-130AB2215BA3}
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Also available on Audio!
Until next time, happy reading !!
Krista
Today we have the honor of being the last stop on the Yesterday's Heroes book tour and we get to find out a bit about the book and it's author, Heather Long !!
Welcome Heather, so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself? Thank you for having me! I'm a writer and this question is always so hard to answer because I don't tend to think of myself as interesting—but I really hope my books are. I read somewhere that if you go to sleep at night and dream of writing, wake up wanting to write, are distracted all day by the things you could be writing—then you just might be a writer. That pretty much sums me up—writing touches every part of my life.
Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Absolutely. Some events you can't shy away from and it took me ten years to be able to write anything that used 9/11 and then it appeared in two stories I wrote. Some events are—for lack of a better way to say it—fixed points. Whether it's Vietnam, the Marine Barracks bombing in 1982, the assassination of a president or the destruction of a space shuttle—they change us in some fundamental way and change the landscape of our personal histories. So those types of events absolutely make it into my books.
Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
I have been inspired to create characters based on friends or family—but they remain inspirations. Most of the characters that appear in my head may be sparked by something else, but ultimately they develop as independent entities—not sure that makes a lot of sense unless you're in my head.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
Everything inspires me. I had a conversation on the phone a few days ago with a very dear friend and we were discussing something rather random, but it sparked a thought and I was like, huh, I wonder—and fifteen minutes later, I had a new story idea. It can be as simple as an offhand remark or a photograph or a song…or just something I see on the road while driving.
When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?
Early morning is the best time. I am fresh and alert. Lately though I tend to write in spurts all day long, as well. But I think I am my most creative in the morning.
How do you feel about marketing your book?
Honestly? Hardest part of the job—but while some people dream of fifteen minutes of fame—I dream of those last few pages as a reader closes the book and lets out a sigh of satisfaction and says 'damn that was good.'
What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
There are so many and they each offer something unique to the mix. I tend to stick to Facebook and Twitter. Occasionally I will play on Yahoo Groups and visit readers via chats they host which are fun, too.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in? I have done both. I've sent in proposals while I've been working on a book or the whole book if it's a new publisher. With my established editors, I pitch story ideas and then run with the ones they like.
Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?
A real spy thriller. I just finished a book called The Lady is a Thief and it had a lot of action, spy elements and I really enjoy action adventure.
Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
No. These characters are themselves and I am just their 'facilitator' to get the story out.
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5
1) Favorite Male Actor - Chris Hemsworth
2) Favorite vehicle - Jeep
3) Favorite way to relax – A massage
4) Favorite ice cream – Mint chocolate chip
5) Favorite outfit – I have these red jeans that I just bought this summer – LOVE them
And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)
Hmm, I'd like to live somewhere there are four seasons—conversely, I wouldn't mind Hawaii for a couple of years.
Where can our readers find you??
Email: heather@heatherlong.net
Twitter: @HVLong Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HeatherLongAuthor
Website/blog: http://www.heatherlong.net
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Heather-Long/e/B002BMBCUC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2959976.Heather_Long
TRR: http://www.theromancereviews.com/mypage.php?location=HVLong
Manic Readers: http://www.manicreaders.com/HeatherVLong/
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
Yesterday's Heroes is one of the most exciting books I've ever written. It's the kick off to a series of books about the Boomers and it features passion, romance, time travel, chaos and hope—and superheroes. I am truly excited to share this and even more that some readers are already asking me for the next book right now. That's a great feeling. Buy Links:
Carina Press: http://ebooks.carinapress.com/82053F21-1990-44D1-95C7-F742542A2DFA/10/134/en/ContentDetails.htm?ID={E016A906-35FC-4303-8752-130AB2215BA3}
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Also available on Audio!
Aurora “Rory” Graystone
Codename: Halo Abilities: superior reflexes, I.Q. and aptitude for calculating probabilities
Mission: find missing teammates
Rory knows she’s being watched, and she’s not about to let the hunter catch her in his trap. She’ll confront her stalker, a man she suspects is involved in the disappearances of other superheroes–if she can ignore the sensual heat that fills her every time he’s near…
Michael Hunter Codename: Hard Target
Abilities: expert tracker and sniper
Mission: kill Rory Graystone
One of five desperate men sent back in time to save the future, Michael believes eliminating Rory is the key to his mission. But even as he takes aim, a split second of doubt causes him to miss his shot.
Drawn together by passion, and on a collision course with fate, can Rory and Michael work together to change the future? Or have they set in motion the horrific history the time-travelers are trying to prevent?
What Readers are saying on Goodreads:
Tara Clegg: This promises to be an awesome new series and I cannot wait until the next book to learn more about the heroes and the challenges they are facing.
Reading Reality: Too many possibilities and no way to get answers until the next book. I want the next book!
Jeep Diva: Superheroes, time travel, sexy alpha males, and saving the world. There is so much awesome in that mix.
Calisto: Is there anything better than romance, action and spandex superheroes?
Heather's book Yesterday's Heroes was also featured this week on Fresh Fiction "Buy The Book" segment from Good Morning Texas!!
Heather is also doing a giveaway so make sure to visit the rafflecopter below !!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Heather, we can't thank you enough for being here with us today! It was so great hearing more about you and I can't wait to read Yesterday's Heroes. Many congrats on the Good Morning Texas, how thrilling!!
Readers, make sure you filled out the Rafflecopter and good luck on the contest but don't forget, Yesterday's Heroes is available in these places too :)
Carina Press: http://ebooks.carinapress.com/82053F21-1990-44D1-95C7-F742542A2DFA/10/134/en/ContentDetails.htm?ID={E016A906-35FC-4303-8752-130AB2215BA3}
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Also available on Audio!
Until next time, happy reading !!
Krista
