Daryl Devore's Blog, page 94

Karen Lopp on Day 14 of 20 Days of Authors

  Tell me, Alex, what was the best thing you enjoyed while back East? Alex: Hot water was brought to my room whenever I wanted. That was pure luxury. What was the worst part of being in Boston?Alex: Too many people. They were everywhere! All the time. What is your favorite thing about the West? Alex: The open spaces and few folks. What is the worst bit about living in the West?Alex: The lack of amenities for Effie. It’d be nice if there was an opera to take her too sometimes. What do you recommend that a cowboy do to get a girl? Alex: Kidnapping one worked out well for me. Just don’t get caught. What’s the one thing, besides Effie, that you can’t live without? Alex: That’d be two things. My horse and my Colt. Describe Effie in three words. Alex. Loveable, courageous, spirited.  Genre- Western Historical Romance Blurb: Boston heiress Effie Sheridan takes matters into her own hands when her fortune is being stolen. The last thing she expects is to be kidnapped by a gang of train robbers. Forced to pretend to be an outlaw's lover to stay alive, she questions her sanity when she is drawn to the gruff, yet charming bandit who risks everything to save her.

U.S. Deputy Alex Marshall is mad enough to spit nails when the beautiful, city-bred girl lands in his arms. Unable to abandon her to the cruelties of the gang, he searches for a way out of the responsibility. But her courage and sweet kisses begin to chip away at the bitterness inside his heart and he must choose between revenge on the gang that slaughtered everyone he loved or redemption for saving a woman he can never have.

Excerpt -


“Darlin’.” His voice no longer held any strength. “Stop. Just gather up the supplies and get to town. Ride like the devil.”“Hush, Alex. I won’t leave you here to bleed to death!”“Effie, please go.”“No!” She doubled her efforts and was rewarded with the sound of ripping material. She wrapped strips around his wounds and tied them as tight as she could. Blood still seeped through. Effie fought against the panic rising in her.Alex needed help. Not a whimpering idiot. Effie bit her lips to stop the trembling. “Can you stand?”“Go, Effie. Just give me the rifle so I can guard your back.” His hand wavered as he reached for the weapon.She hugged the gun to her breast and swallowed her dread. “I’ll stay here and die by your side if you don’t try. Is that what you want? Now get up, damn it!” Effie struggled to help Alex stand. He leaned against the tree and swore.“Can you walk?” Terror squeezed her lungs.He curved his lips into a crooked smile. “Get the horses.”Effie ran. Fear clawed at her throat. Reins tight in her fist, she jogged back to Alex. Not a drop of color remained in his face. And he swayed drunkenly. She raced to his side and guided his boot into the stirrup. “I can’t lift you.”Alex sucked in a wheezy breath and hauled himself into the saddle. He sagged over the horn and wove bloody fingers through the horse’s mane. “Get going.”She scrambled onto her horse, bent to grab the trailing reins of Alex’s mount, and kicked her horse into a trot.“Don’t you dare die on me, Alex Marshall. I need you.” 


Buy link - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G3PYILI/ref=s9_simh_gw_p351_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=05YDA3YF0CMNWMKG7ZYW&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1630083502&pf_rd_i=507846
 

Sheri Fredricks on Day 8 of 20 Days of Authors

Please welcome the award-winning Sheri Fredricks on Day 8 of 20 Days of Authors We’ve all done it— rooted for the underdog. He’s known for his cures – and she’s his only remedy. The tagline from my award winning paranormal fantasy romance novel says it all. The hero is someone who struggles with what he knows and must separate that from what he wants.
His is a simple need, which makes the fight all the better— and harder.
When I gave my main characters personal conflicts, I made sure it would coincide with their personalities and professions, endearing them to the reader.
Remedy Maker is about Rhycious, an ex-military Centaur medic whose battle scars are unseen. Moments of high stress bring about hallucinating flashbacks, a condition he continually fights to overcome. When he meets Patience, a beautiful Wood Nymph and the race of the late enemy of his people, he learns about unconditional love… and the healing power of a single touch.
Together they must battle human hunters who’d enslave the mythological beings, rebels taking over the Centaur kingdom, and the affection they have for each other in a mythic world filled with prejudice.
What dark-horse do you root for?


Remedy Maker (Book One in the Centaur Series)
Man by day, Centaur by night, Rhycious is a remedy maker who needs his own healing.
He's the royal physician, famous for his cures. War and posttraumatic stress disorder has broken his spirit, preventing him from finding true happiness. Then a direct order from the queen to investigate an uprising forces him out of his secluded cabin at the edge of the forest.
Patience is an optimistic, good-natured Wood Nymph who works as a mediator to ensure harmony within the Nymph sector.
Environmental pollution in the aquifer stream that feeds the taproot tree of her heart is slowly killing her. Resigned to the fact she will not live long, she sets out to discover the mysterious disappearance of her sister. Experience has taught her to deny herself the love of a male, but the gruff Centaur is different. He doesn't push his expectations on her, only his healing nature.
When Rhycious loses his grip on reality, he believes his inability to control his disorder will drive Patience away. Nevertheless, desire flares, and Patience draws him close. Kidnapping and betrayal turn their mythic joint venture into a deadly bout.
Will their love endure when survival hinges on trusting each other?

Excerpt:
Bacchus’ breathe. Here she stood, at the very opening where destruction had reigned on the Nymph race for over two hundred years. Even a century out of war, it struck her dumb. Humbled by the magnitude of the simple palace entry, and honored by the trust Rhycious gave her, Patience felt very inconsequential.
Rhycious turned to look over his shoulder, scanning the tree line behind them. Across the meadow, birds chased one another between leafy branches, and purple flowers waved.
He gave her fingers a tug. “Come on.”
Patience pulled back and hesitated for two heartbeats. Her dream of harmonious living and her life’s work to achieve the goal mirrored that of Rhy’s. To live with races co-mingling—the way it used to be. Before war and devastation took a toll on their people, back when trust existed between races.
Her gaze flew to Rhycious, who loosened his calloused grip. Warm brown eyes watched her, gleaming like glassy volcanic rock, taking in her features. Perspiration gave his skin a healthy glow. She was acutely aware of his tall, physique du role. He thumbed the skin of her inner wrist, waiting for her to work through her fears. His touch sent electric pulses to dance up her arm.
Her lips dried out, and she licked them. It’s now or never, homie. She nodded that she was ready.
Well-lubed metal hinges swung the rock door inward. Dwarfed by the immense height of the hand-carved entrance, the narrower width was a surprise. Built expressly for Centaurs in true form, the craftsmanship appeared superb. When closed, she imagined the barest of hairline cracks—if one even knew where to look, that is.
Rhycious took a deep breath. He held it a few seconds before releasing it out in a stream. At his insistence, she entered the dark portal first, ahead of him.
Beyond the beam of daylight sneaking in with the open door, the interior loomed pitch black. Devoid of the brightness of a moment ago, the dark maw disoriented her. Cooler air mixed with the warmth from outside, another stark difference to her senses.
Rhycious—now there’s a contradiction. She huffed a nasal laugh to herself. Widely famed Remedy Maker, a powerful warrior trained to wield a sword. A man of peace and healing, yet searching for the villains who attempted to kill his queen and threatened their society’s structure.
Like the human’s biblical hero, Daniel, who was thrown into the lions’ den, Patience found herself locked in obscurity when Rhy pushed the rock door closed behind them. Her eyes hadn’t adjusted to the dark—she couldn’t see her hand in front of her face.
Behind her, tumblers in the door’s lock fastened in place, resounding clicks broke the still, musty gloom. A trickle of water played off-key notes in the blind distance.
And Patience’s heart began to pound.


Winner of the Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer’s Choice Award 2012.


Finalist for the 2012 RONE (Reward Of Novel Excellence) Award from InD’Tale Magazine.
Remedy Maker:
Amazon UK:  http://is.gd/F5L9nxAmazon US: http://is.gd/sktnSHPaperback: http://is.gd/s03Lhi  Barnes & Noble:  http://is.gd/BEPhdh Smashwords: http://is.gd/TFOtIqARe:  http://is.gd/wtSZhc
You can find Sheri Fredricks here:
My Website : www.sherifredricks.comBlogging At : http://sherifredricks.blogspot.com/Twitter:        http://twitter.com/Sheri_FredricksFacebook:     http://www.Facebook.com/SheriFredricksGoodreads:   www.goodreads.com/goodreadscomsheri_fredricksAuthor Info:  http://www.amazon.com/Sheri-Fredricks/e/B008L3T50Y/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1Pinterest:      http://www.pinterest.com/sherifredricksYoutube:        http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J51M1xH2Nl8

Daryl Devore on Day 7 of 20 Days of Authors

Welcome to Me on Day 7I have a cover reveal and yet I don't have a new release. It seems Apple thinks my orginial cover for A Kept Woman is too risque, so a new cover was created and today is the day I release to all you wonderful visitors.
(If you're a Critter - now the visual of me running around with my panties around my ankles can fade into the night!!!!)
 Old "risque" cover


Exciting new "non-risque" cover


Reader Alert: This is an erotic BDSM romance. This book contains spanking, light bondage and D/s themes.  Please do not read unless you are 18 years of age, or over.Daryl Devore
 A Kept Woman – Daryl DevoreErotic Contemporary ( X rated)Heat – 5 hot peppers (suggest you have a fan and a cool glass of lemonade nearby before you read this book)
Desperately unemployed, Arianne, answers an ad that reads Woman Wanted. With miniscule hours and excellent pay, she accepts the position of courtesan to Derek, a handsomely dashing man, whom she discovers is a billionaire. Engaging in a game of cat and mouse, will they drive each other crazy…or will they fall in love first?
Excerpt:
Picking up the remote with one hand and the coffee mug with the other, she alternated between surfing channels and sipping wine. She stopped at two naked females passionately exploring each other’s body. Blankly staring at the screen she finished the bottle of red wine, consumed her precooked, fast-frozen meal in a container and had changed to white wine, without noticing the difference. Tossing the empty dish onto the coffee table, the fork bounced off and landed on the newspaper. She bent down to pick it up. The ad she had read to Taylor caught her eye. “What the hell.” She picked her laptop up off the coffee table, typed in the website then clicked on e-box twenty four.

Hi. I’m Derek. I’m looking for a woman. I don’t want a girlfriend or a lover. Just a mutually sexually satisfying companion. The work will be minimal and the pay will be excellent. If interested email me your name, an introduction - 100 words or less - and a photo to entice me to hire you.

Arianne drank her wine and stared at the laptop screen for fifteen minutes while she had a mental debate. The “yes” voice in her head won out. The wine may have helped. She linked the digital camera to the computer then walked to her room and stripped. She stood in front of the small mirror and tried to choose her sexiest pose. Having chosen the conservative one of standing with her hands at her sides, legs spread apart; Arianne positioned herself in front of the camera and clicked the trigger. In a moment the picture appeared on the screen.

Appraising her body, Arianne smiled - soft curves, ample breasts and a neatly trimmed puff of hair below her belly button. It was a sexy body, not ravishing like a movie star’s, but it had enticed a few of the male gender. With some careful editing she deleted the background of the picture until all she had was a naked, headless picture of herself. She attached the photo to an email and began to type her message.

My name is Arianne. I’m 25 and recently unemployed so I’m ready to explore any job opportunity. Especially one that will pay an excellent salary. I keep in shape. I like to party but I don’t do drugs. I’m not a virgin, but I am clean—no STD’s. I’ve never done anything like this before. I don’t jump into bed with every guy I meet. I’m just a regular girl pushed into a corner and is desperately looking for a way out.

How much is “excellent pay”?

She hit the send button. No turning back now. While online she did a daily depressing search of the job listings. As she was about to click off, she noticed her email icon was flashing.

Hello Arianne. This is Derek. I am 28 and employed. I also like to keep in shape, but I enjoy a lazy day doing nothing but watching TV. There will be no drugs involved—only sex. I don’t have the time or the patience for a relationship.

Job description - service me at least once a week - say every Tuesday. I will supply an apartment for our meetings. I don’t want to wine and dine you. There is no emotional involvement. I want to walk in, fuck and leave.

Pay - how does $8,000 a month - to start - sound? Reply.
Derek.

"Sounds pretty damn good!"
New Dawning International Bookfair - http://www.newdawningbookfair.com/Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Kept-Woman-bdsm-spanking-ebook/dp/B004PGNB9CSmashwords - http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/43872Reader Store - http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/daryl-devore/a-kept-woman/_/R-400000000000000350757BookStrand - http://www.bookstrand.com/a-kept-womanIf you prefer print books – All Book Stories - http://www.allbookstores.com/Kept-Woman-Daryl-Devore/9781466257245
lol - I don't know the Apple link - yet

Brenda Dyer on Day 6 of 20 Days of Authors

Give a great welcome to fellow Canuck - Brenda Dyer


Courage + Sacrifice. Revenge + Honor = Love’s Prophecy
Hello, everyone. I’m so happy to be on Erotic Notions today. Thank you so much, Daryl for having me. It’s been a long time since I’ve visited your site. Actually, it has been a long time since I’ve written a blog post, lol. Something I need to remedy in 2014.So, today I’m here to talk about my novel, Love’s Prophecy, book #1 in the Prophecy Series.Geez, what to say...It’s funny because there’s nothing I like more than talking about my books, but I also dread it because I never know what to say. Recently I was asked what or who inspired me to start writing the books in the Prophecy Series. At first I didn’t know how to answer, but after much thought, I realized the inspiration behind the Prophecy series is actually a combination of books, a T.V show, and movies. LOL, think of my inspirations as a recipe: a dash of J.R Ward’s BDB series, a pinch of the show Supernatural, with a hint of J.R.R Tolkien’s LofTR’s trilogy plus a whole lot of imagination.My novels are rich in world building, with a fresh, new take on the vampire myth, with a well thought out history and well fleshed out characters. If you ‘re a fan of paranormal romances featuring vampires, or even if you don’t care for paranormals, but love romances steeped in love, heartbreak, hot sex, and a very satisfying ending, then I believe you will enjoy my books. At their core, my books are love stories.Here’s what some readers had to say about Love’s Prophecy and Prophecy’s Child, book #2 in the Prophecy Series.
Review for Love’s Prophecy:Original post here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2012/08/indie-book-review-loves-prophecy.html

Now, you know my love for the Black Dagger Brotherhood. That series has started my love for Paranormal Romance. And being a fan, I would love to introduce to you its cousin who is just as badass and sexy might I add. Dyer has given us an amazing new take on vampires and it was so good, I have every intention on getting the next book as soon as possible.

Breeana and Mel are just amazing together. Even though this is a paranormal romance, they feel like a real couple. When Mel tells her what he is, her reaction was epic. She love vampire romance novels and only her best friend knows that. So she immediately believes her friend has pulled a candid camera moment on her. You couldn't help but smile at this moment. It is probably a reaction I would have too. I would definitely believe it was a prank as well. I love Mel so much. He was a great complex character that was so buried under guilt, all he knew was fighting. He didn't really live. And given his backstory, you can see why. It will have you in tears. I love his scenes with Breeana, you can truly feel that weight getting lifted off of him every time they are together. Dyer really knows her characters and really knows how to draw you in. You feel a connection to them instantly.
Review for Love’s Prophecy:Some books you can read at face value, but there's something eerily believable between the lines of Love's Prophecy. Ms. Dyer hasn't just been creative, she's reasoned out an entirely new role for Vampires, and you won't believe what it is. 

The heat level between Mel and Breeana makes a woman long to walk the dark, wet streets of Vancouver in the off chance she might run into a Vampire. The author doesn't duplicate the old myths, she explains them, and douses the BS leaving a clean tale and purpose of what Vampires really are, and how they came to be. Creative, page turning, heat seeking story telling. Keep your eyes on this author. She has visions, no one else has.
Review for Prophecy’s Child:Authors like Ms. Dyer absolutely amaze me! I'm trying to write a book myself and I'm struggling. And I'm dealing with every day people, something I know about.

Ms. Dyer's ability to take a fantasy type of subject such as vampires and make it a real human story is just incredible! She writes a basic love story that just happens to involve the supernatural. She still does a great job of integrating the paranormal so you don't forget what you are actually reading, but she makes it human, if that makes sense. What happens with these characters could happen to anyone, really. I have the utmost respect and admiration for authors like this to write stories like that!

I read the second book first. Now I can't wait to see what the first book offers! 

Thank you so much for having me on your site, Daryl. And a huge thank you to all who visited me today. I’ll leave you with the blurb to Love’s Prophecy:
Dark warriors of might...Mel is a vampire warrior sworn to hunt and kill demons in the dark streets of Vancouver. But he's burdened with a new assignment: find the meaning behind the Vampire Prophecy. Having no faith in the gods and their empty words, he believes there's no truth to the ancient legend until he meets Breeana, a human woman who bears the mark of the prophecy and resembles the mysterious woman haunting his dreams. When a vengeful demon spies Breeana in his arms, she is marked for death. He must take her from the world she knows until he can eliminate the threat. But the real danger is the role Breeana must play in fulfilling the prophecy and the intense feelings she brings out in him. Mel is forced to choose between his obligations to his kind, the world, and the woman he loves. Does he have the courage to let the one woman who could heal his wounded heart and soul go, or will he bind her to him for all eternity?Small warriors of light...Veterinarian, Dr. Breeana Spencer yearns for love and companionship, but the disappointment of failed relationships has left her bitter. She now finds solace in romance novels. But when she meets a mysterious stranger, she's drawn to him by a connection so forceful it shatters all reason, leaving her incapable of resisting him. As Breeana’s drawn deeper into his danger-filled world, she learns she's part of an ancient vampire legend. Breeana fears her future is no longer hers and will not include Mel. As their enemies close in, desperate to destroy them both, she must fight to convince Mel her place is at his side. A life-altering choice is before her—one that will take all her courage and love to make.
Buy Links:Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00702YWF0Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/128967Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/loves-prophecy-brenda-dyer/1109231394?ean=2940033030972Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-CA/ebook/love-s-prophecyApple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/loves-prophecy/id505437982?mt=11Places to find me:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrendaMDyerTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrendaMDyerWebsite: http://www.brendamdyer.comBlog: http://www.brendamdyer.blogspot.com

Gina Danna on Day 5 of 20 Days of Authors

Gina Danna on Day 5 of 20 Days of Authors
Book Title: Her Eternal Rogue
Pages: 284
Publisher: To The Bitter End Publishing
Buy links:
Amazon:  http://bit.ly/HerEternalRogueNook:  http://bit.ly/17NluHbiTunes:  http://bit.ly/14HnLyL
Excerpt – 

Alexander sat at the table and finished another glass of rum, mentally assessing the damage to his ship. And his unwanted guest. Though attempting to drown himself in three-fourths of a bottle of rum, he wasn’t nearly inebriated enough to dampen his growing desire for her. Ian sat across the table from him, staring. Alexander knew the Scotsman too well to believe he’d stay silent much longer.“So,” the Scotsman began. “When will ye tell the lassie she’s gonnae home?”Alexander looked at him hard and poured himself another glass. “I’ll not be goin’ close to any British port with a damaged ship...”“Ach, I see,” the Scotsman speculated. “So, you thinkin’ about keepin’ her fer yerself, then?”“No,” Alexander answered too quickly, downing a gulp. An absurd thought, he knew, but so tempting.“Well,” Ian continued. “Wi’ her stayin’ here, that’ll leave many tae believe we’re cursed wi’ a woman onboard and no charges lifted.”Alexander laughed. Cursed by having a woman onboard? He’d tell them about curses…“Fine, put her in the aft cabin till we’re through with…”“Capt’n, ye cannae be placin’ her there,” Ian scolded, sounding like a father reprimanding his son. “Be pirates on this ship, sair, and puttin’ her there is more or less tellin’ the boys she’s fer sharin’.”“What would you have me do?” Alexander barked. When Ian didn’t respond, Alexander downed another gulp. “Keep her where she is?”“Aye.”“Fine, then I’ll sleep in the aft cabin.”“Capt’n,” Ian said quietly. “Ye cannae be doin’ that either.”Alexander glared at the glass in front of him. Damn, the man was right. Pirate ships had no assigned quarters. Sleeping areas were open to all. But on The Lily, Alexander’s curse and the pirates’ fear of it, enabled him to claim the larger cabin exclusively. But he was furious at having to house the English aristocrat there. Too far below her station when he’d lived in England, he would have been denied access to her but here… He shook his head. He and his crew had a reward for her safe return, and he had to remember that. Ah yes, the reward. A clean slate—for the moment. A few months with no law in pursuit, leaving them open to rob whomever they wanted. A laugh but one both sides held for the British navy remained heavily occupied across the ocean with the French, too busy to chase every pirate on the seas.Sharing quarters with her, being so close to her, was too dangerous for them both. Her body was designed to entice any man to wanton desires. A temptation he couldn’t ignore since he’d kissed her the first time he saw her. Truly decadent on his part, but piracy did allow deviations to any plan. He’d wanted to kiss those ruby lips, to invade her mouth and, as he’d plunged his tongue into her, she’d tasted sweet, like strawberries and cream. Everything about her made him want to bury himself deep inside her. He downed another mouthful of rum. He feared if he was alone with her for too long, he’d lose all his control. He’d never love her. The idea of him ever loving a woman had been squashed that night years ago. But lust remained… No, he thought, she had to go and soon.

Andrea Cooper on Day 4 of 20 Days of Authors

To start off it's Andrea's Birthday
  And I thought there should be cake.

 Now back to our regularly scheduled programming.
  Viking Fire Blurb: In 856 CE, Ireland is a land of myth, magic, and blood. Viking raiders have fought the Irish for over half a century. Rival Irish clans promise only betrayal and carnage.
Kaireen, daughter of Laird Liannon, is suddenly forced into an arranged marriage with her sworn enemy, a Viking. She refuses to submit. With no mention of love, only land and the protection of her clan, she endeavors to get her betrothed banished from her country. Will love find its way around her stubborn heart?

Bram, the Viking, finds himself without future or inheritance as a younger son in his family. A marriage to the Laird’s daughter would grant him land if he swears fidelity and if his men will fight along with the Liannons against any foe—Irish or Viking. However, the Laird’s feisty daughter only holds animosity for him and his kind. Is marriage worth the battle scars of such a relentless opponent?

With the blame for a rival laird’s death treacherously set against the Liannons, Kaireen and Bram must find a way to lay aside their differences as an unforeseen darkness sends death snapping at their heels.


Viking Fire Excerpt
Chapter One Ireland 856 CE (condensed)

“I renounce Father for this.” Kaireen threw the elderberry gown.

“Shame on you and your children for speaking such.” Her handmaid, Elva, gathered the damask and then dusted off the rushes. “It’s a wonder one of the clim has not scolded you from your hearth for such talk.”

“No, curse Father for a fool.” She plopped on her bed and a goose feather floated away. With a huff, she leaned against the oak headboard. Red curtains puffed like a robin’s chest around oak poles supporting her wooden canopy.

Her bare feet brushed against the stone floor.

“You know your da arranged a marriage within a season.” Elva smirked.

Kaireen shook her head. “To another land holder,” and waved a hand in disgust, “not t-this heathen. Twice they raided our land in the last month alone. Now father wants me as wife to one of them?” She clenched her fists. “No, I will not marry this Viking.”

Elva smiled, reminding Kaireen of the rumors of her handmaid’s uncanny foresight.
Whispers of Elva making strange things happen and often blamed as the cause of
Kaireen’s stubborn refusal to behave as a laird’s daughter should.

“You’ve not seen him yet.” Elva wiggled her brows.

“So?” Kaireen shrugged. “I would like to never see him.”

“Well then, would you not like to know if you have a handsome husband or not?” She waited for her response, but Kaireen scowled. Elva chuckled. “I would rather get a good look at him now than the morning after.”

Kaireen’s ears heated. “I am not marrying.” She shook her head for emphasis. “So there will be no morning, nor night, nor wedding.”

“If he is handsome, I may fight you for him.” Elva smiled, deepening the wrinkles around her eyes.

“Welcome to him either way.” Kaireen laughed.

The Garnet Dagger Blurb: Everyone knows what happens when a vampire bites a human…but what if the victim is Elvin?
Forbidden to cross the Elvin barrier into human lands, Brock cannot sate his curiosity. Cursed by a vampyre bite that forces him to feed on the life-essence of others, he is unable to touch another without taking their life. Chained by prophesy, he must find a witch, pierce her heart, and draw her blood for his cure.

Celeste must escape the monks who have held her prisoner for years. Her magic has been kept dormant by her captors. An ancient powerful Warloc craves her powers. If he succeeds in devouring her magic, she and his world will die.

When Brock falls in love with Celeste before realizing her demise is his cure, will love triumph over his desire to be healed? Will he risk everything to save her from a Warloc, an oath breaker, who also wants her dead?


The Garnet Dagger: Chapter One (condensed)
I’ve known death. For over half a millennia, I escorted many to death at the end of my sword. In the eyes of the dying, I watched it shroud them. Foolishly, I thought many more eras would pass before death came for me. It came so swiftly that I could not run; I could not escape. At a village, dressed in human clothes, I took in everything.
I delayed my return to my people as I watched human jugglers bounce torches and knifes. It was autumn equinox and the festivities would continue well into the night. Children laughed as they chased each other. A trail of leaves from their costumes twirled after them. It was dark when I reached the forest.
I hiked slower than my normal speed, so as not to startle whatever human called out. My leather boots crunched upon dried, diseased leaves and bark. Horrified, I glanced up. Branches twisted around each other to suffocating. Lifeless limbs cracked in the wind. Flesh of the trees sloughed off in layers, exposing its bones. Gashes hollowed out chunks of warmth. Fragments of leaves clung to finger tips, marking sepulchers of the dying trees. Trees mourned with wails like splitting wood, and I brought my hands over my ears. I must flee before I became infected, they told me. Flee before the stain of this defilement creeps into you, they warned. Trees spoke to my kind, always had. Yet these trees were in such agony of death that I could not breathe. Felt as though my lungs had folded in on themselves, like a moth unable to break loose from its cocoon.
Cooper, Andrea R. (2013-03-25). The Garnet Dagger (Crimson Romance) (Kindle Locations 60-67). F+W Media. Kindle Edition.


Andrea’s Bio: Growing up in Houston, Texas, Andrea has always created characters and stories. But it wasn't until she was in her late twenties that she started writing novels.
What happened that ignited the writing flame in her fingers? Divorced, and disillusioned by love songs and stories. They exaggerate. She thought. Love and Romance are not like that in the real world. Then she met her husband and realized, yes love and romance are exactly like the songs and stories say. She is now a happy wife, and a mom to three kids (two boys and a girl).
Andrea writes paranormal and historical romance. When not writing or reading, one may find Andrea dancing in Zumba.
She believes in the power of change and counting each moment as a blessing. But most importantly, she believes in love.

The Garnet Dagger Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/ISi0u9LoseM
Viking Fire Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/m1bPZ3nUyzs

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaRCooper.author
Twitter: @AndreaRCooper
Author Website: www.AndreaRCooper.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6934877.Andrea_R_Cooper

Buy Links:
Crimson Romance ebooks
The Garnet Dagger Amazon: http://goo.gl/rMEJ59
The Garnet Dagger B & N: http://goo.gl/Qp5i6A
The Garnet Dagger iTunes: http://goo.gl/s1Cugp
Viking Fire Amazon: http://goo.gl/71VAsf
Viking Fire B & N: http://goo.gl/EvBxwf
Viking Fire iTunes: http://goo.gl/fQuKBd

Viking Fire is up for votes at Paranormal Romance Guild - here's the link if you wish to vote and help Andrea.  http://www.paranormalromanceguild.com/2013reviewerschoice.htm

Neva Brown on Day 3 of 20 Days of Authors

Neva Brown on Day 3 of 20 Days of Authors


WELCOME NEVA BROWN.Thanks you for having me today.
TELL US SOME THINGS ABOUT YOURSELF.I’m a retired teacher. I taught English and Spanish in secondary school. I did a short stint as an administrator but didn’t enjoy it as much as I did teaching young people that bubbled with energy, mischief, and curiosity.Most all my life I’ve been involved with ranching in West Texas and New Mexico. As a youngster I rode horses and was my dad’s best “cowboy” when the real cowboys went to war. After I married, my role in ranch life changed but I still enjoyed country living—even though droughts plagued us at times (a teaching salary came in handy during those times).When my husband’s health issues demanded more attention, we left the country life and moved to the city. We now live far less stressful lives.  Now I try to walk two miles three to five days a week and try to do all the healthy stuff the good doctor suggests little old ladies do, but I still eat chocolate candy. I now enjoy writing romance novels, doing editing for a few other writers, and writing book reviews for a happily-ever-after website. Super important in my life are our two sons and daughters-in-law and our grandchildren. They are my pride and joy.
WAS THERE A MOMENT WHEN YOU FIRST THOUGHT “I’M A WRITER.”?I don’t think I thought of myself as a writer back then; but when our sons were very small, I wrote to entertain myself. We lived on a ranch twenty-three miles from town, with no telephone and no electricity. The closest neighbor was six miles away. This is a picture of the ranch house.  I wrote in fits and spurts thought-out the years, but never dreamed of trying to publish anything until I retired and joined The San Angelo Writers’ Club. Three critic partners encouraged me (dared me) to enter a contest. I won a blue ribbon. Now here I am with my first published novel.
WHAT GENRE DO YOU WRITE IN?I write contemporary and historical romance.
HOW MANY BOOKS HAVE YOU WRITTEN?I have five completed novels, but only CASEY’S COURAGE has been published. I have signed another contract with Soul Mate Publishing to publish A PRETTY PENNY that should be out in the summer of 2014. The others I’m doing revisions on and, hopefully, getting them in shape to be published.
ARE ANY OF YOUR CHARACTERS BASED ON PEOPLE IN REAL LIFE?No, but in CASEY’S COURAGE, Casey’s rehab experiences came from things I saw and heard about while my husband was in rehab after three different surgeries. All of my characters have bits and pieces of people I’ve known, but none are patterned after any one particular person. Since I write for fun and to entertain, I create characters in love stories that I hope will take the reader on a vicarious journey that brings joy and that happy satisfied feeling. 
TELL US ABOUT YOUR NOVEL.CASEY’S COURAGE is a contemporary love story set in far West Texas. Casey Mason is a survivor, smart, talented, and forever in love with Tres Spenser. But her life changes after a near-fatal horse wreck. Let me show you the cover and the blurb about how they struggles through a maze of difficulties as their love matures before they find their “happy-ever-after.”




Love hunkers down and hides but abides until Casey and Tres realize life without love is just existing not really living.Just as accomplished horse trainer Casey Mason, PhD feels she’s earned her independence, disaster strikes and her life is forever changed. She must put her life back together bit by piece. The obstacles and her old beliefs seem insurmountable; making her wonder if love can conquer all. Jordan Spencer III (Tres) inherits Spencer Ranch where Casey, the riding buddy of his youth, still lives. Casey, a beautiful, complex woman, creeps into his mind and heart. Bitter experiences  make him shy away from a serious relationship with a woman; yet he and Casey have a special connection. As she struggles with her rehabilitation, he micromanages her life with quiet efficiency until he pushes her past some invisible line. When Casey disappears from his life, he learns more about himself than makes him comfortable. Coming to terms with the past so he can move on to a future with Casey is a challenge that tests his mettle. .
Show more Show less http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Casey%27s+Courage

Melissa Keir on Day 2 of 20 days of Authors

Please welcome - Melissa Keir to Erotic Notions
Please introduce yourself, tell us where you are from.
Hello, I’m Melissa Keir from Michigan… the state shaped like your hand. *holds up hand* See.
How did you start out in writing? How long have you been a writer?
In middle school and high school, I wrote those sappy love poems where rhyming was key. During my high school typing class (yep, dating myself here), I would write horror stories involving my friends. You know the type… “It was a dark and stormy night…”. I used to write for an online soap opera gossip newspaper when my children were young. Then took another stab at poetry (free verse this time) in college.
But with my novellas, I’ve been published for almost two years now. It’s been quite the journey and I’ve loved every minute of it.
What have you written so far?
I have six novellas written so far. Three in the Wilder Sisters Series about five sisters from small town- Amherst, Ohio (Forever Love, Beach Desires, A Christmas Accident). Two in the Charming Chances series (Second Time’s the Charm and Three’s a Crowd). I also have a flash fiction piece in the Hot Flashes, Volume One anthology .
When working on a writing project how do you start out? (With plot, an outline, characters first, researching topics)
I’m a pantser. I usually begin with an idea for the story. The characters are often second and then the story writes itself. The characters lead the story. For me I know the beginning and the end, the middle is always the surprise.
Tell us about your current work. Where did the idea for this story come from, was this more or less challenging compared to your other work?
Chalkboard Romance is due to release later this month from Secret Cravings Publishing. It is about a teacher who after a one night stand with a hot man, she finds out that he’s a parent of one of her students. This leads to many complications including the possible loss of her job. As a teacher, I wanted to see what might happen if a teacher falls for a parent. Ironically, I married one of my former student’s parents.

A Chalkboard Romance is my longest story to date. I also wrote it in third person, which was harder for me. I love writing in first person because I really get into becoming the main character. With third person, you have to be careful of head hopping.
In your opinion what makes a great story?
The characters…if the reader can become the readers in their mind, they have become a part of the story.
What is the best part of being a writer? What is the worst or most frustrating?
The best part of being a writer is making a connection with a reader. I love when I can share my stories with other people who understand and enjoy them.
The worst part is trying to find time to write. I have a full time job and am a parent. I don’t have a lot of time to pen all the stories in my head. I have to learn how to clone myself in order to get all the things done.
Photo??



Sure. I had some boudoir photos done. I loved the way that they turned out and made one of the face shots my author pic. I highly recommend having the boudoir shoot. You will feel so empowered .




 Any helpful advice you would want to share to other newbies? Anything you know now, that you wished you knew when you were starting out?
The most important thing is to never give up. I’ve had publishing houses close and I’ve gotten my rights back. Even though it felt like the end of the world, I kept submitting and have been able to put my stories out to the public.
The best thing that you can do as a writer is to keep writing. Each time you get better and your voice gets stronger.
What has been your favorite work so far?
I believe that my favorite work has been A Christmas Accident. The story wrote itself in a weekend. It has some truth to it. My mom was in a coma and woke up just like the hero did.
How long does it typically takes you to write a book/story?
It depends on the story and what time I have. Some of my stories have been written in a couple of days. With the full-time job, I don’t have enough time to write like I’d love.
Are you self-published or traditional published?
I’m a new hybrid. I have some books which are self-published and some that are with an indie publisher. I love the diversity of doing both.
Thank you for having me visit your blog. I hope your readers will stop by and visit me. I love hearing from readers.
Where to find Melissa – Website: http://www.melissakeir.comFacebook – http://www.facebook.com/melissaakeirFacebook Author Page – http://www.facebook.com/authormelissakeirTwitter – http://www.twitter.com/melissa_keir
Blurb – Chalkboard RomanceLauren Walsh, a divorcee and elementary teacher, wants to feel sexy again, after her ex tosses her aside for a younger woman. Her teaching partner and best friend encourages her to sign up for The Playhouse--a renowned dating agency.Mac Thomas became trapped in a marriage to a money grubbing socialite. Forced to stay away from his young son, Mac loses the ability to trust. After the death of his wife, he returns to care for his son, but his sister wants more for him. She sets him up with The Playhouse.Passion ignites but Mac’s a parent of one of Lauren’s students. A teacher and a parent dating could cost Lauren her job and her chance at happiness. Will Mac be able to convince the school and Lauren, love is the most important thing?

Jenna Jaxon on Day 1 of 20 Days of Authors

 During the 20 week days of the rest of January, I am hosting authors from a yahoo group we all belong to. And I get to start off witht he wonderful and talented - Jenna Jaxon!!!!!!Take it away - Jenna
 I am giving away two copies of Betrothal to commenters on each blog hosting the reveal.


Lady Alyse de Courcy has fallen in love with Lord Braeton, a nobleman in King Edward III’s court and a man to whom she has barely spoken. Fate, however, has decreed her betrothal to his best friend, Sir Geoffrey Longford—a handsome and imposing knight, yet hardly the man she wants to wed.

When Sir Geoffrey is bound in betrothal by his father, he could not have expected the beautiful stranger to win his heart the moment they meet. Nevertheless, the fascinating Lady Alyse has done exactly that, and his feelings for her only grow as he learns more of her gentle yet spirited nature. But Alyse’s infatuation with his friend casts doubt on whether she can ever return his regard and their wedding day is fast approaching… 

Will he have time enough to win her love?

Links:
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Betrothal-Time-Enough-Jenna-Jaxon-ebook/dp/B00CF6UZFW/ref=sr_sp-atf_image_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1388757585&sr=1-2&keywords=betrothal
B & N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/betrothal-jenna-jaxon/1115182506?ean=2940044481251



Betrayal is set to release on January 31, 2014.  After a night of passion with her betrothed, Sir Geoffrey Longford, Lady Alyse de Courcy is eagerly looking forward to her wedding.  But when Geoffrey is forced to marry another, a heartbroken and possibly pregnant Alyse finds herself in her own private hell. She must either gamble with her reputation or marry someone she does not love.
A reputed connoisseur of women, Thomas, Lord Braeton, has dallied with many ladies of King Edward’s court, although he has favored none.  However, as Geoffrey’s best friend, Thomas has sworn to serve and protect Alyse, an oath now sorely tested when he agrees to marry her—in name only—to guard her reputation. Yet, as they grow closer, and Thomas discovers Alyse’s sweet but spirited nature, he comes to desire a marriage in truth.  Can he overcome her memory of Geoffrey or is Thomas doomed to burn with passion for a woman he can never possess?                        Excerpt
With the sigh of a martyr at the stake, Alyse nodded and Anne leaped forth and stripped the linen shift from her. She fought the impulse to shield her breasts and womanhood; apparently brides were expected to be appraised as if a horse at market. The only stare that sent a shiver up her back, however, was Lady Carlyle’s. The woman’s lips twisted into a sneer as her gaze swept Alyse from head to toe. A look of triumph she did not understand lit the lady’s face and Alyse turned her back, quite willing to allow Anne to drop the silk chemise over her head.When she turned back to the company, loud “ahs’ and whispers of “indecent” ran through the women. Alyse looked down at herself. As she feared, the sheer material revealed every swell of her breasts. As the fabric moved across them, her nipples hardened, poking the garment out to sharp points. Maurya stepped behind her and began to brush her hair again. “Pay them no mind, Alyse,” she whispered. “You are more beautiful than any of them. And I warrant Lord Braeton will have no qualms about you whatsoever in that shift.” Before Alyse could reply, the door burst open and the laughing, swearing, drinking chorus of male courtiers who attended Thomas strode in. And stopped. The sudden silence intensified the tension in the small room. Their eyes rested on Alyse, who stared back at them and prayed she would not faint again.As suddenly as the silence descended it broke, and a babble of laughter, praise and ribald jests issued forth from the appreciative gentlemen. To her utter humiliation, Alyse recognized Patrick Sullivan, Roger Delaney, and Robert Spencer among the courtiers. All stared at her still, Patrick leaning over to comment to Sir Roger, who laughed and nodded in agreement. She blinked back tears of rage, but stood quietly lest they make even more sport of her. From the corner of her eye, she caught movement in the doorway, and several men and ladies moved to make way for the final actor in this terrible play.  Thomas strode grandly into the chamber, smiling as though he walked in a decorous procession. Attired in a splendid robe of green wool, adorned with velvet down the center edges and fur at collar and cuffs, he swept her a low bow. He laughed as he arose, but the sound died on his lips when at last he registered her figure in the blue chemise. The stunned look in his eyes was swiftly replaced by a hot hunger that made her gasp. Any hope she had of him honoring his promise died with that look.“Lady Braeton.” He held out his hand, and Alyse had no choice but to take it. He raised it to his lips, searing her flesh with their warm touch. “You are a vision I scarce would credit this side of heaven.” She peered into his darkened eyes, seeking mercy. At the almost imperceptible nod of his head, she could breathe again.He released her and stepped back. “The wedding is done.” Thomas nodded to his attendants, who stepped forward. “Let the bedding be done as well.” Stretching forth his arms, he waited as the men stripped the robe from him, revealing his perfectly nude body beneath.

Author Bio:Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance.  She is currently working to release Betrayal at the end of January and finishing revisions to her fifth full length novel, To Woo A Wicked Widow, set in Regency England and the first book in her five part series, The Widow’s Club.
Jenna has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager.  A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise.  She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets.  When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director.  She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.Links:Blog:  http://jennajaxon.wordpress.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenna-Jaxon/146857578723570Twitter:  @Jenna_Jaxon

Happy New Year from Daryl Devore and Erotic Notions

Here is my wish to you - my followers - visitors - friends and fans - have a joyous, productive and healthy New Year.

What are my goals for this year? None. I don't think I am going to write much. My muse is indifferent at the moment and has been that way since the release of my last book. 



I am looking forward to January as my blog is dedicated to my peers/friends from the critique group I belong to. Romance Critters - or critters as we call ourselves - is a wonderful group comprised of newbies to multi-published authors and this month I am showcasing several of the authors and their books. 

Genres range from sweet romance to hotter than hot erotic - paranormal - historical - humour - regency and whatever else we can write. So drop in on weekdays and check out these wonderful and diverse authors.

Here is the list - to date - anything and everything can change in a moment.


6 - Jenna Jaxon7 - Melissa Keir8 - Neva Brown9 - Andrea Cooper10 - Gina Danna13 - Brenda Dyer14 - Daryl Devore15 - Sheri Fredricks 16 - Dee Dawning17 - Dee Dawning20- Liza O'Connor21 - Melissa Keir22 - Sheri Fredricks 23 - Karen Wilson24  - Karen Wilson27 - Brenda Dyer28 - Daryl Devore
29 - Liza O'Connor 30 - Nikki Barret31 - Jenna Jaxon
If you'd like to do a guest post/interview or spotlight leave your email in the comments sections and I'll get back to you.